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🎬 Where Was Coco Filmed? Complete Mexico Location Guide

2017

Lee Unkrich

Added January 15, 2024

5 Locations

Explore the vibrant real-world inspirations behind Disney Pixar's Coco. Uncover Mexico's magical locations and plan your own unforgettable journey!

About 🎬 Where Was Coco Filmed? Complete Mexico Location Guide

🎬 Where Was Coco Filmed? Complete Mexico Location Guide

Ever wondered how Disney Pixar's "Coco" captured the heart and soul of Mexico so perfectly? It wasn't just movie magic; it was a deep dive into the vibrant culture, rich traditions, and breathtaking landscapes of the country itself.

From the Land of the Living's bustling streets to the fantastical, neon-lit Land of the Dead, every frame of "Coco" is steeped in Mexican authenticity. The filmmakers spent years exploring, researching, and soaking up the essence of this incredible nation.

This meticulous attention to detail means that "Coco" isn't just a movie; it's a gateway to real-world adventures! You can practically step into Miguel's shoes and experience the sights, sounds, and vibrant energy that inspired one of Pixar's most beloved films.

So, get ready to discover the incredible real-life locations that brought "Coco" to life. Pack your bags (and maybe a guitar!) as we explore where the magic truly happened.

🗺️ Major Filming Locations

🎬 Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico City - Where Grandeur Meets the Afterlife 🌟

Scenic view of Palacio de Bellas Artes showing its impressive Art Deco and Neoclassical architecture

🏛️ The Location

The Palacio de Bellas Artes is Mexico City's premier cultural center, a stunning blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture. This majestic opera house and concert hall is a monument to Mexican art and culture, housing masterpieces by famous muralists like Diego Rivera. It's a must-see for its sheer grandeur alone!

🎥 In the Film

While not directly shown, the Palacio de Bellas Artes served as a major inspiration for the grand, theatrical stages and opulent structures seen in the Land of the Dead. Its sense of historical significance and artistic splendor is echoed in Ernesto de la Cruz's palatial estate and performance hall. You can definitely feel its influence in the majestic scale of the afterlife.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Av. Juárez S/N, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06050 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

🕒 Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

💰 Admission: Approximately 85 MXN (roughly $4-5 USD) for museum access, free for residents on Sundays. Performance tickets vary.

🌐 Website: bellasartes.gob.mx

💡 Pro Tip: Don't miss the murals on the upper floors by Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco, and David Alfaro Siqueiros. For the best exterior photo, head to the Alameda Central park across the street. 🎬 Fun Fact: The building is so heavy that it has slowly sunk several meters into the soft soil of Mexico City over the decades!

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🎬 San Andrés Mixquic, State of Mexico - The Heart of Day of the Dead Traditions ✨

Stunning cemetery scene in San Andrés Mixquic during Alumbrada, with thousands of candles illuminating graves

🏛️ The Location

San Andrés Mixquic is a small town on the outskirts of Mexico City, renowned for its incredibly authentic and deeply rooted Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations. During late October and early November, its ancient cemetery becomes a mesmerizing spectacle of lights, flowers, and family gatherings.

🎥 In the Film

Mixquic's traditions were a profound source of inspiration for "Coco," particularly the vivid depiction of family altars (ofrendas) and the bustling, spiritual energy of the holiday. The scene where Miguel first crosses into the Land of the Dead, witnessing the vibrant marigold bridge and candlelit paths, directly echoes the profound atmosphere of Mixquic's Alumbrada, when thousands of candles illuminate the graveyard.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: San Andrés Mixquic, Tláhuac, Mexico City. It's a municipality, not a single address.

🕒 Hours: Open daily, but the main attraction is during Día de Muertos (Oct 31 - Nov 2).

💰 Admission: Free to wander, but some events or guided tours during Día de Muertos may have a fee.

🌐 Website: No official tourism website, but local information is widely available during the season.

💡 Pro Tip: If you visit during Día de Muertos, go early in the day to see the preparations, then return at night for the incredible candlelit Alumbrada. Be respectful, as this is a very spiritual and personal family celebration. 🎬 Fun Fact: Mixquic was once an island in Lake Xochimilco, and its pre-Hispanic roots are still evident in its customs and traditions.

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🎬 Guanajuato City, Guanajuato - The Rainbow City of the Dead 🎨

Beautiful view of Guanajuato City showcasing its colorful houses stacked on hillsides and winding streets

🏛️ The Location

Guanajuato City is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its colorful colonial architecture, narrow winding alleys (callejones), and a unique underground road network. Built into a steep valley, its buildings seem to stack atop one another, creating a visually stunning, multi-tiered urban landscape.

🎥 In the Film

The towering, multi-level city of the dead in "Coco" is a direct homage to Guanajuato's incredible topography. Its vibrant hues, labyrinthine streets, and the playful way buildings seemingly defy gravity were crucial inspirations for the Land of the Dead's unique "vertical village" design. It's truly like stepping into the film!

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Guanajuato City is a city, not a single address. Main square is Jardín de la Unión.

🕒 Hours: Most attractions are open daily during daylight hours.

💰 Admission: Free to explore the city, specific museums or attractions have varying fees (e.g., Mummy Museum).

🌐 Website: visitmexico.com/guanajuato (official tourism site)

💡 Pro Tip: Take a funicular ride up to the El Pípila monument for the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city, especially at sunset. Wear comfortable shoes for walking the steep, cobblestone streets! 🎬 Fun Fact: Many of Guanajuato's underground roads were once rivers that were covered up!

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🎬 Mercado de Artesanías de Coyoacán, Mexico City - Where Creativity Thrives 🛍️

Impressive facade of Mercado de Coyoacán displaying artisanal goods and colorful signage

🏛️ The Location

Nestled in the charming Coyoacán borough of Mexico City, the Mercado de Artesanías is a bustling hub for traditional Mexican crafts, textiles, jewelry, and folk art. It's a sensory delight, filled with vibrant colors, intricate designs, and the lively chatter of vendors and shoppers.

🎥 In the Film

The bustling, colorful market scenes in "Coco," where Miguel and other characters wander through stalls filled with various goods, were heavily inspired by authentic Mexican markets like the one in Coyoacán. The film perfectly captures the energy, visual richness, and a sense of community found in these vibrant local centers.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Felipe Carrillo Puerto 25, Coyoacán, 04000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

🕒 Hours: Typically open daily, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (hours can vary).

💰 Admission: Free to enter and browse.

🌐 Website: No official website, but information on TripAdvisor and local guides.

💡 Pro Tip: This market is a fantastic place to find unique souvenirs and gifts. Don't be afraid to practice your bargaining skills! Be sure to also explore the surrounding Coyoacán neighborhood, known for its beautiful colonial architecture and bohemian vibe. 🎬 Fun Fact: The Coyoacán neighborhood was once a separate village and retains much of its original charm, making it a favorite spot for artists and intellectuals, including Frida Kahlo.

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🎬 Museo Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul), Mexico City - Frida's Living Legacy 🧑‍🎨

Authentic street scene of Museo Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul) capturing its distinctive blue exterior and entrance

🏛️ The Location

The iconic Casa Azul (Blue House) in Coyoacán was the birthplace, home, and last resting place of the legendary Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. Now a museum, it offers an intimate glimpse into her life, art, and her personal, vibrantly decorated world. It's a deeply personal space that reflects her unique spirit.

🎥 In the Film

Frida Kahlo herself appears as a memorable character in the Land of the Dead, and her artistic style and home were clear inspirations for some of the more whimsical and theatrical elements of the afterlife. Her love of vibrant colors, traditional Mexican patterns, and unique aesthetic are felt throughout the film's artistic design. It's a fitting tribute to her enduring legacy.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Londres 247, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

🕒 Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, varying times; check website for exact schedule as it can change. Closed Mondays.

💰 Admission: Approximately 270 MXN (roughly $15-16 USD) for international visitors. Tickets must be purchased online in advance.

🌐 Website: museofridakahlo.org.mx

💡 Pro Tip: Tickets sell out very quickly, often weeks in advance. Book well ahead of your visit through their official website to guarantee entry. Combine this with a visit to the nearby Mercado de Coyoacán for a full day of exploration! 🎬 Fun Fact: The Casa Azul remained untouched for 50 years after Frida's death, carefully preserved by her husband, Diego Rivera, before opening as a museum.

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🎬 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

Pixar's commitment to immersing themselves in Mexican culture for "Coco" wasn't just about pretty pictures; it was about honoring a deeply spiritual tradition and creating a story that resonated globally. The result? A visually stunning, emotionally rich film.

🎭 Director's Vision

🎯 Location Strategy: Director Lee Unkrich's team embarked on extensive research trips throughout Mexico, visiting markets, cemeteries, plazas, and homes. Their goal was to absorb not just the look, but the very feeling and spirit of Día de Muertos and Mexican family life.

🎨 Visual Style: Every design choice, from the glowing marigold petals to the tiered city structure of the Land of the Dead, was meticulously crafted to reflect authentic Mexican artistry and symbolism, drawing heavily from the colors and architecture found in places like Guanajuato.

🎪 Production Highlights

🎬 Cultural Immersion: The Pixar team visited Mexican homes to witness how families set up their ofrendas (altars) and shared stories of their ancestors, creating an incredibly authentic portrayal in the film.

🎭 Music as Character: Composer Michael Giacchino and co-director Adrian Molina collaborated closely to weave traditional Mexican music like mariachi and son jarocho directly into the film's narrative and emotional core.

🎨 Artistic Inspiration: The art department studied various Mexican folk arts, including papel picado (paper banners), alebrijes (spirit animal sculptures), and calaveras (sugar skulls), to inform the film's distinctive visual style.

🎯 Lighting Magic: The enchanting glow of the Land of the Dead was achieved through complex lighting simulations, mimicking the thousands of candles used in real-life Day of the Dead celebrations in places like Mixquic.

😄 Authentic Accents: Pixar actively sought out Latinx voice actors for the English version of the film to ensure authentic accents and vocal performances.

😮 Marigold Bridge: The iconic marigold bridge contains an estimated 22 million petals, each individually rendered to create the stunning visual effect of a glowing path.

🎉 Research Vault: Pixar compiled a massive "research bible" with thousands of photos and videos from their trips to Mexico, which all departments used as reference.

🌟 Traditional Attire: Every outfit worn by characters in the film was based on actual traditional Mexican clothing, from mariachi suits to indigenous textiles.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Dynamics: The filmmakers spent time observing large Mexican family gatherings to understand the intricate relationships and playful teasing that defines the Rivera family.

🎼 "Remember Me": The film's signature song, "Remember Me," was written by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, the same duo behind "Frozen's" "Let It Go."

🌟 Cast & Crew Stories

😄 Anthony Gonzalez (Miguel): The young voice actor began recording for Miguel when he was just 12, growing into the role as the film progressed! He also performed "Remember Me" live for audiences.

😮 Gael García Bernal (Héctor): Bernal brought his deep understanding of Mexican culture to the role, helping to shape Héctor's character and adding layers of authenticity to his performance.

🎉 Mexican Consultants: Pixar worked with an expert cultural consulting team throughout the entire production, ensuring that every detail, from dialogue to customs, was respectful and accurate.

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🗺️ Plan Your Visit

Ready to step into the vibrant world of "Coco" yourself? Mexico City and Guanajuato offer an incredible journey through culture, history, and pure cinematic magic.

🏨 Where to Stay

💰 Budget: Hostel Regina (Mexico City) - $25-45/night - Located in the historic center, offering a vibrant atmosphere, clean dorms, and easy access to attractions. Perfect for solo travelers or groups.

🏛️ Mid-Range: Hotel Marlowe Centro Histórico (Mexico City) - $80-150/night - A charming, classic hotel in the heart of the city, walking distance to Bellas Artes, with comfortable rooms and excellent service.

✨ Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City (Mexico City) - $300+/night - An urban oasis on Reforma Avenue, known for its elegant design, exceptional service, and beautiful courtyard. Perfect for a luxurious base.

🚗 Getting Around

🚇 Metro: Mexico City has an extensive and very affordable Metro system. It's the most efficient way to navigate the bustling city, especially to areas like the historic center and Coyoacán.

🚗 Car: For local exploration within Mexico City, a car is generally not recommended due to traffic and parking. However, renting a car can be useful for trips outside the city, like to Mixquic (though a tour bus is often easier during Día de Muertos) or a drive to Guanajuato.

🚶 Walking: Many attractions in Mexico City's historic center and Coyoacán are best explored on foot. Guanajuato City is incredibly walkable, but be prepared for steep hills and cobblestones!

📸 Photo Tips

🌅 Best Times: Early morning (before 10 AM) for iconic landmarks like Bellas Artes to avoid crowds and get soft, beautiful light. Sunset and twilight offer magical shots, especially in Guanajuato and during Mixquic's Alumbrada.

📱 Instagram Spots:

- The colorful street scenes of Guanajuato from El Pípila viewpoint. - The intricate details of Bellas Artes' exterior and interior. - The vibrant stalls and street art around Mercado de Coyoacán. - The iconic blue facade of Museo Frida Kahlo.

🎬 Movie Moments:

- Recreate Miguel's journey across the marigold bridge with symbolic flower petals. - Pose with a mariachi band, just like Miguel dreamed of. - Find a colorful alley in Guanajuato and imagine Héctor running through it.

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❓ Quick Answers

🎬 Is this based on a true story?

"Coco" is not based on a single true story but is a deeply researched and culturally authentic homage to Mexico's Día de Muertos traditions and family values. Its narrative is fictional, drawing inspiration from countless real-life elements.

🗺️ Can I visit all locations in one day?

No, absolutely not! Mexico City's locations (Bellas Artes, Coyoacán, Frida Kahlo House) can be grouped over two days. San Andrés Mixquic requires a dedicated half-day or evening trip, especially during Día de Muertos. Guanajuato City is located several hours away and requires a separate 2-3 day trip to fully explore.

💰 How much should I budget?

For Mexico City, budget around $50-100 USD per person per day for mid-range accommodation, food, and attractions. For Guanajuato, it might be slightly less, around $40-80 USD per person per day. This excludes international flights.

📱 Are there guided tours?

Yes! Many tours are available in Mexico City that cover the historic center and Coyoacán. You can also find specialized Día de Muertos tours to Mixquic, and walking tours are popular in Guanajuato. Look for reputable local tour operators online.

🎭 When was this filmed?

"Coco" was an animated film, so it wasn't "filmed" in the traditional sense. However, Pixar's research and inspiration trips to Mexico spanned over six years during the production, from roughly 2011 to 2017.

🌍 Is Mexico safe for tourists?

Like any large country, Mexico has areas with varying safety levels. Tourist destinations like Mexico City and Guanajuato are generally safe for visitors, especially in popular, well-trafficked areas. Exercise common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Research current travel advisories before your trip.

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🎬 Ready for Your Cinematic Adventure?

"Coco" isn't just a beloved film; it's a vibrant, heartfelt invitation to explore the magic of Mexico. From the architectural grandeur of Mexico City to the colorful labyrinth of Guanajuato, these real-world locations are more than just backdrops; they're the soul of the story.

By visiting these places, you're not just retracing steps from a movie; you're immersing yourself in the rich culture, history, and traditions that inspired one of the most culturally resonant films of our time. It's an experience that will deepen your appreciation for both the film and the incredible country of Mexico.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your own "Coco"-inspired adventure today. And be sure to share your photos with us – we can't wait to see your cinematic journey come to life!

Year Released

2017

Director

Lee Unkrich

Filming Locations

5 locations

Behind the Scenes

Pixar's Coco is a vibrant love letter to Mexican culture, born from years of meticulous research. Director Lee Unkrich and his team immersed themselves in the traditions, art, and daily life of various Mexican regions. This deep dive ensured not just visual grandeur, but also an authentic and respectful portrayal of Día de Muertos, family dynamics, and the vibrant spirit of the country, making the film resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.

Pixar artists and filmmakers took multiple research trips (over six years!) to Mexico, including Oaxaca, Guanajuato, and Mexico City, to ensure cultural authenticity.
The design of the Land of the Dead was heavily inspired by the verticality and vibrant colors of Guanajuato City.
Mariachi music and traditional Mexican folk songs were a huge influence on the film's Oscar-winning soundtrack.
Original concept art for Ernesto de la Cruz's tower was inspired by the Art Deco architecture of the Palacio de Bellas Artes.
The fantastical 'alebrijes' (spirit guides) are based on traditional Mexican folk art sculptures, first created by Pedro Linares López.
The scenes featuring Miguel's extended Rivera family in the Land of the Living were carefully crafted to reflect real Mexican family dynamics and traditions.
Animators studied real cempasúchil (marigold) flowers to accurately portray the bridge connecting the worlds.
The vibrant market scenes drew inspiration from bustling artisan markets like Mercado de Coyoacán.
Frida Kahlo's character and artistic style were integrated into the film, requiring extensive research into her life and work.
The sound design team traveled to Mexico to record specific ambient noises and traditional instruments like marimbas and jaranas.
The production team consulted extensively with cultural advisors to ensure the accurate and respectful depiction of Día de Muertos.
Miguel's iconic guitar was meticulously designed to feature authentic Mexican craftsmanship and decorative elements.

Location Gallery

Palacio de Bellas Artes

San Andrés Mixquic

Guanajuato City

Mercado de Artesanías de Coyoacán

Museo Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul)

Travel Tips

Best time to visit most of these locations is during spring or fall for mild weather.
Consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during tourist season.
Guided tours are available that cover Palacio de Bellas Artes, San Andrés Mixquic, Guanajuato City in one day.