I’ve waxed poetic about my deep love for Mexico numerous times in the past, from cosmopolitan Mexico City and scenic, rural Tepoztlan to the bohemian beach town of Tulum.

Recently, I had the pleasure of exploring an all-new area of Mexico: the colonial heartland, which stretches across the cool highlands region in the central part of the country. This was my fourth visit to Mexico, and easily my most enchanting yet.

The heartland is a vibrant and spirited region…which makes sense, given that it’s the birthplace of many of Mexico’s most colorful and beloved traditions.

The colonial cities are beautiful and inviting, the history is rich and storied, and the landscapes are vast and majestic.

Here, I spent my days wandering down narrow cobblestone alleyways, gazing upon Spanish colonial architecture, sipping mezcal in dark cantinas, popping into historic museums and art galleries, and shimmying to the sound of mariachi music, which mysteriously filled the air in every part of every city.

While this region was strongly influenced by Spain during its formative years, today it will be quick to remind you that the local culture and heritage is 100% Mexican…and the locals are damn proud of it.

The heartland is Mexico at its purest and most vibrant – and I freaking loved every second of my time here.

After visiting the cities of Guadalajara, Tequila, San Miguel de Allende, and Guanajuato (in the states of Jalisco and Guanajuato), it’s safe to say that my love affair with Mexico is far from over.

And actually, for anyone looking to get a true taste of Mexico’s culture and colonial history, this is the region I’d recommend – yes, even over my beloved CDMX.

Below are 7 reasons why you absolutely need to visit Mexico’s colonial heartland:

1. Ridiculously Colorful Cities

Ohhh my goodness you guys, the vibrant shades of Mexico’s colonial heartland will color my daydreams forever. The city of Guanajuato is easily the most rainbow-hued destination I’ve ever laid eyes on, and San Miguel de Allende is right there behind it.

To truly appreciate the many pastel colors of both cities, I recommend getting a view from way up high, above the city itself (at the mirador in SMA, and at the El Pipila monument in Guanajuato).

Alternatively, it’s well worth your while to “get lost” in the maze of steep alleyways and cobblestone streets; every twist and turn will reveal a new shade of paint splashed against the stone walls.

The town of Tequila is almost as colorful, with gorgeous shades of red, yellow, and blue decorating its wide streets. And while Guadalajara isn’t as obviously-colorful, you can still find little pockets of color here and there throughout the city.

2. Spanish-Style Plazas

One of my favorite things about exploring Latin America is how every city and town – even the tiniest ones – have a central plaza that serves as the geographic and cultural “heart.”

The people-watching, street food, and architecture are always most enchanting in these centrally-located squares…and in Mexico’s colonial highlands, this is no exception.

Guadalajara boasts a whopping FOUR plazas around its iconic Cathedral, known collectively as the “Cross of Plazas.” These include Plaza Guadalajara, Plaza de Armas, Plaza de la Liberación, and Rotunda of Illustrious Jaliscans.

The central plazas of San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato are both known as El Jardin, and with good reason: they’re shady and green, with their gorgeous trees trimmed neatly into various shapes.

In all of these cities, you can seek refuge on a wrought-iron bench in the main plaza and easily spend an hour or two just watching the world go by. The sights, sounds, and smells will make you feel so alive; all you have to do is sit there quietly and soak it all in.

3. Elaborate Baroque Architecture

Assuming that like me, you’re decidedly not an architecture whiz, here’s a quick rundown: Baroque is the highly extravagant, lavish style of architecture and design that flourished throughout Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Some of the most well-known examples of Baroque architecture include the Palace of Versailles and St Peter’s Basilica.

This time period overlapped with Mexico’s colonial era, during which time the Spanish Empire had a major influence on Mexico’s culture and architecture. This resulted in many of Mexico’s colonial cities developing a very European feel, which you can still experience today.

Guanajuato’s cathedrals represent some of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Latin America, and the historic center of Guadalajara is home to a number of old Baroque mansions.

4. ¡Mucho Tequila!

da-DA-dada-DA-da-DA…tequila! (Anyone?!)

Even if you’re not a fan of the stuff (*raises hand*) there’s no escaping the cultural ties that tequila shares with this region of Mexico. Jalisco is the birthplace of this distilled beverage, and it has been an important part of the state’s heritage, history, and economy for centuries.

Much like champagne (which can only be called as such if it comes from the Champagne region of France), true tequila must come from the state of Jalisco, primarily the area surrounding the city of Tequila.

Even if you don’t make your way to the town of Tequila itself (which you absolutely should, by the way – those blue agave fields are stunning) you can’t visit this region of Mexico without sampling the local spirits. Those are the rules! 😉

5. Lively Mariachi Music

Speaking of tequila, if you’re on the shy side it wouldn’t hurt to have access to a liiiittle bit of liquid courage while touring Mexico’s heartland. Why, you ask?

Well, the state of Jalisco is the birthplace of more than just tequila; the origins of mariachi can be traced back here, too.

You’ll find them everywhere throughout the city of Guadalajara: in bustling plazas, on random street corners, lingering outside restaurants, and livening up the mood in bars.

The result is an atmosphere that’s eternally festive and spirited…and encourages a healthy dose of dancing. So toss back a shot and slip on your dancing shoes; this is one of the most joyful ways to immerse yourself in Mexico’s local culture!

6. Art Galore

Mexico’s colonial heartland is an art-lover’s paradise. From historic religious art to wildly colorful modern art, you can find it all here. San Miguel de Allende alone is home to more than 100 art galleries and studios!

And of course, don’t even get me started on the museums; Hospicio Cabañas in Guadalajara features some of the best-known works of famed Mexican muralist José Clemente Orozco, as well pieces by other Mexican and international artists.

Meanwhile in Guanajuato, you can visit the house where the legendary Diego Rivera was born, and view some of his earliest works. And for literary lovers, don’t miss the art museum dedicated to the fictional “hero” Dox Quixote.

7. Flavorful Local Cuisine

Pork sandwiches on crusty bread “drowned” in a spicy tomato sauce (“tortas ahogadas”). Goat stew simmered with spices and chiles. Hearty pozole dressed with alllll the garnishes. Handmade tortillas topped with salsa verde, piping hot chorizo, and a squeeze of lime.

Mmmm.

Channel your inner Food Network host and get ready to eat your weight in tacos, enchiladas, tamales, tortas, and more – the food here is good.

While the states of Jalisco and Guanajuato may not have reached Oaxaca’s level of fame as a culinary destination, you can rest assured that you won’t go hungry here…and that your dollar will go really, really far.

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If you’ve traveled to Mexico before, what’s your favorite city or region? Would you like to explore Mexico’s colonial heartland?

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