Toluca is an industrial city with pleasant weather, consisting of lower temperatures during the evening and milder temperatures during the day. The city has a unique charm of contrasting traditions and historical sites, which include its beautiful buildings on the main streets, colonial arches and local handicrafts.

The historical center features the largest archways in the world, the Church of Santa Veracruz and the Museum of Fine Arts, displaying water paintings and engravings. Another site worth visiting is the Centro Cultural Mexiquense, a modern complex located 3 miles from the city. This diverse cultural center houses the Museum of Anthropology, the Central Library, the Museum of Modern Art and the Museum of Popular Culture, which contains prehispanic artifacts and artwork.

Other nearby attractions include the cathedral, built at the end of the 19th century, the neoclassical Civic Plaza, and the indoor Botanical Garden, which boasts an impressive facade of more than 1,500 pieces of stained glass brought from Europe.

Shopping is also available throughout Toluca and its surrounding areas. The Casa de las Artesanias carries local handicrafts, specializing in beautiful Temoaya carpets. Tree of life statues made out of clay are another local souvenir, available at the nearby town of Metepec, only 4 miles southeast of Toluca. Its lively Monday market carries a variety of colorful souvenirs including multicolored ceramics, vases, flower pots and candlesticks.

Cuisine in Toluca is unique to the region. It is primarily pork-based and includes green sausage made with herbs, meat and cheese, which are sold at several places in the market. International restaurants such as Cabaña Suiza and Centro Español are also available.

Toluca´s beautiful landscape is perfect for travelers interested in breathtaking views of snow-capped volcanoes and crater lakes, set in a colorful city with native traditions.