Monterrey, the capital of Nuevo León, stands at the foot of the Sierra Madre Oriental and has long been recognized as one of Mexico’s most industrial and innovative cities. The Macroplaza is one of the largest public squares in Latin America and links historic buildings like the 18th-century Metropolitan Cathedral with newer sites like the Museo de Historia Mexicana and the Faro del Comercio, a towering orange structure that beams a green laser across the sky each night. A short walk away, the Barrio Antiguo district offers narrow streets lined with colonial facades, galleries, and music venues. On weekends, it transforms into a gathering spot with artisan markets and open-air cafes.

Surrounded by mountains, Monterrey also offers access to impressive natural landmarks. A local favorite is Chipinque Ecological Park, where visitors can hike or cycle among pine forests and watch for coatis and birds. For something more adventurous, La Huasteca Canyon is just a short drive away and offers dramatic limestone cliffs and climbing routes. Perhaps the most iconic view of the city comes from the top of Cerro de la Silla, a saddle-shaped mountain that defines Monterrey’s skyline and offers challenging trails for early-morning hikers.