Family Travel Guide to Coatepec & Xico, Veracruz - Coffee Towns, Waterfalls, and Chocolate Workshops
In the cool highlands above Veracruz City, the sister towns of Coatepec and Xico blend misty coffee fincas, cobblestone streets, and rainforest waterfalls. This family guide gives you the best parks, kid-friendly eats, hands-on farm visits, and an easy 3-day plan.
Quick Links
Why Families Love Coatepec & Xico
Elevation brings cooler weather and green hills. Streets are calm for stroller loops, plazas have room to run, and local farms welcome kids. Coffee is king, chocolate is close behind, and waterfalls are the reward for short rainforest walks.
Base in Coatepec for groceries, bakeries, and parks. Hop to neighboring Xico for the famous mole xiqueño, traditional festivals, and the lush canyon leading to Cascada de Texolo.
Things to Do
Visit a Coffee Finca
Many farms offer short tours where kids can see beans on the plant and taste fresh hot chocolate. Ask around the Parque Miguel Hidalgo kiosks for daily options.
Walk to Texolo Waterfall
Drive or taxi to the Texolo viewpoint, then take the easy path to the bridge. Mist, rainbows, and photo spots make this a kid favorite. Wear grippy shoes.
Chocolate & Mole Workshops
Small kitchens in Xico host hands-on tastings. Look for “clases de mole” signs around Santa María Magdalena or pre-book via Viator.
Plaza Time & Bakeries
Grab pan dulce from a local panadería near Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón, then let little ones roam the plaza while parents enjoy a slow coffee.
Where to Eat
- Central cafés in Coatepec - espresso for adults, hot chocolate for kids.
- Traditional kitchens in Xico - try mole xiqueño and beef stews.
- Coatepec Market - fruit, snacks, and fast local plates.
Your Base
This cozy family Airbnb in Coatepec keeps you close to plazas, coffee, and an easy road to Xico. After waterfall walks, settle in for cocoa night and board games.
Family Tips
- Mornings are best for waterfalls. Bring a light rain jacket and grippy shoes.
- Cash is handy for small workshops and farm gates.
- Always carry water. Highland weather is cooler but humid.
- Consider travel insurance for peace of mind.
3-Day Family Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Coatepec, plaza stroll, café time, bakery treats. Optional evening chocolate tasting.
- Day 2: Morning coffee finca tour, lunch in Xico, Texolo Waterfall walk.
- Day 3: Market snacks, quick park time, then drive toward your next Veracruz stop.
More From Our Mexico Library
Explore nearby regions and connect your route: Quintana Roo Family Guide • Ultimate Yucatán Guide • Veracruz City • Boca del Río • Orizaba • Jalcomulco Rafting
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