Toluca is the capital city of Estado de Mexico, the "U" shaped state that surrounds Distrito Federal. The city is situated 64km west of Mexico City, and sits 400m higher. The increase in altitude can result in occasional winter snow.

The colonial city-center boasts attractive plazas and lively arcades, there are also plenty of museums (seventeen) and galleries for the culturally inclined.

Nearby to Toluca, one can visit Nevado de Toluca, an impressive extinct volcano with twin lakes in its crater. Also, the colonial and natural features of Valle de Bravo await 70 km to the west.

Toluca has become an important center for automotive manufacture, with various companies producing there. It has also become frequently visited by professional athletes for altitude training, in particular cyclists.