Monterrey, known as the Sultan of the North, is located in Mexico’s northern region, 729 km (452 mi) northeast of Guadalajara and 993 km (616 mi) north of Mexico City. The climate is hot, with an average temperature of 23º C (73º F), however it can reach 45º C (113º F) during the summer.

Monterrey is the state capital of Nuevo Leon and it ranks among Mexico’s three most important cities, thanks to its important commercial and industrial activity. In addition, it offers countless tourist attractions, such as its colonial and contemporary architecture. Here you can see the contrast of new and old as you marvel at beautiful buildings like the Palacio del Obispado and the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo (Contemporary Art Museum). At the Macro Plaza, the heart of Monterrey, you’ll see imposing civic and religious edifices. There you also can visit interesting museums that house valuable exhibits offering an overview of the city’s 400-year history.

In the surrounding areas you can enjoy gorgeous natural scenery at the Cascada Cola de Caballo National Park and Cumbres de Monterrey National Park. The latter, one of the nation’s largest parks, consists of the Chipinque Ecological Park, the Cañon de la Huasteca (Huasteca Canyon) and the Cerro de la Silla, ideal spots for camping, ecotourism and adventure tourism.

Due to the city’s importance as an industrial center and its proximity to the United States, Monterrey is an excellent place for shopping thanks to its modern malls. As for regional cuisine, during your visit be sure to try cabrito asado (roast kid), one of the state’s most famous dishes.