One of my favorite ways to explore Mexico is by visiting its Pueblos Mágicos. These “Magical Towns” are smaller cities and villages that have been incorporated into a federal tourism initiative for their cultural value. While the area around my adopted home of Puerto Vallarta is peppered with beautiful Magical Towns, these often feel overrun and overwhelmed, thanks to a growing amount of tourism.
But not all Pueblos Mágicos are on the mass tourism trail. There are nearly 200 scattered across Mexico, and most fly below the international tourist radar. Calvillo, Aguascalientes, for example, located just 52 kilometers from Aguascalientes city, is a refreshing change of pace.
The pace of life in Calvillo is slower than the Magical Towns near to where I live. Its lack of international tourism means that things move with character and tradition. It’s a slice of real living Mexico, rather than one that feels performative, complete with cobblestone streets, 19th-century architecture, leafy plazas and the faint scent of sweet guavas lingering in the air.
Calvillo is easy to reach for a day trip, but I suggest staying a night or two to take your time here. Cupped by the Sierra Fría range, Calvillo is tucked within a small valley. Historic streets are flanked by colorful facades while papel picado flutters overhead.
Calvillo was founded in 1771, and evidence of its Spanish influence can be seen all across town. The main square is home to the stunning Templo del Señor del S.