why visit puebla mexico

Puebla Travel Guide: Discover the Cultural Wonders of Puebla City, Mexico

I’ve explored many cities and small towns in Mexico and Puebla remains one of my favorites. In my opinion, it’s one of the most underrated cities in the country.

It’s surprising to me that Puebla doesn’t get as much attention as Oaxaca or Mexico City. It has so much to offer in regards to culture, history, and food. From its colonial buildings to its Talavera pottery and rich gastronomy, I found Puebla to be one of the most fascinating cities in Mexico, which is why I sought to create this guide and website, to help bring more attention to this city and state in east-central Mexico.

If you’re planning a trip to Puebla City, then I hope this travel guide helps you make the most of your time there.

VISIT PUEBLA QUICK LINKS

To help you explore the city of Puebla, we’ve compiled links to recommended tours here.

• Puebla and Cholula Day Tour From Mexico City
• Authentic Street Food Exploration & Dessert

Top-rated hotels in Puebla

• Luxury: Casona de los Sapos Hotel Boutique
• Midrange: Hotel Boutique Casareyna
• Budget: Hostal Casa de Arcos

OTHER SERVICES

• Mexico Tourist Card (FMM)
• Travel Insurance (with COVID cover)
• Mexico SIM Card / eSIM
• Mexico Bus Tickets

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Mexico tourist card (fmm).

I didn’t need one but depending on your passport, you may need a visa to enter Mexico. You can go to iVisa.com for more information on tourist visas to Mexico.

Even if you don’t need a tourist visa, all visitors are still required to get an FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) to enter Mexico. Often referred to as a “tourist card”, you can get it if you’re entering Mexico by air or by land.

If you’re flying to Mexico, then it’s usually provided by the airline (cost included in the airline ticket). If you’re driving, then you can get one at the border (with a fee).

You can also process the FMM ahead of time online through the INM website or iVisa.com . Click on the link to learn more about the FMM .

PUEBLA AT A GLANCE

Located in east-central Mexico, Puebla refers to both the state and its capital city of the same name. I didn’t know this until recently but the city of Puebla is actually the fourth largest city in Mexico, after Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara.

Founded in 1531, Puebla is one of the oldest cities in Mexico. It was also one of the most important colonial cities of New Spain. Its strategic location between the Viceregal capital (Mexico City) and the port of Veracruz led to its rapid rise as the second-most important city in colonial Mexico.

Today, Puebla is renowned for its Spanish baroque architecture, Talavera pottery, and rich gastronomy. It’s ground zero for the Cinco de Mayo celebrations and boasts two of the most important dishes in Mexican cuisine – mole poblano and chiles en nogada (pictured below).

When you visit Puebla, you’ll spend most of your time in its historic center. It’s designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to many interesting museums, including the first public library opened in the Americas.

IS PUEBLA SAFE?

Some states in Mexico have a reputation for being unsafe, but for the most part, that isn’t the case with Puebla. According to multiple sources, it’s one of the safest states in Mexico . Google “safest destinations in mexico” and you’ll find Puebla on many lists.

Puebla has largely escaped the narco-violence in Mexico but that doesn’t mean bad things can’t happen there. As long as you prioritize safety and observe the usual precautions – ie don’t wear flashy clothing or jewelry, stay in populated areas, don’t walk alone at night, etc – then you should have an incident-free time in Puebla.

The US , Canada , and UK governments offer general travel advisories to Mexico but I strongly recommend bookmarking the Puebla forum on Tripadvisor as well. Locals and expats are active on those forums so if there are any recent events that you should know about, then you’ll probably learn about them there.

BEST TIME TO VISIT PUEBLA

The city of Puebla experiences mild weather year-round so there really is no bad time to go. If you want to visit Puebla when precipitation is historically at its lowest, then it’s best to go from November to March . Click on the link for more on Puebla’s climate .

HOW TO GET TO PUEBLA

There are many ways to get to Puebla City depending on where you are. I’ve flown into Puebla once but most of the time, we travel by bus. Here’s how you can get to downtown Puebla from the airport in Huejotzingo (PBC) or from Mexico City.

If you’re traveling to Puebla from a different city in Mexico, then you can search for bus routes on busbud .

From Puebla International Airport (PBC)

BY BUS: This is the cheapest way to get to the city center from the airport. You can catch an Estrella Roja bus that will take you to CAPU, the main bus station in Puebla. From there, you can take an Uber to your hotel.

I purchased a ticket from the kiosk inside the airport upon arrival but you can book one in advance through the Estrella Roja website . Under origen (origin), select “Aeropuerto de Huejotzingo”. The one-way ride costs MXN 110 and takes about 40 minutes.

BY UBER/TAXI: This is more expensive than the bus but if you’re traveling and sharing the ride with other people, then it may be worth it. Depending on the time, an UberX ride to the zocalo will run you anywhere between MXN 250-450 .

If you go by Uber, then please note that there’s a designated pickup point so you may have to walk there with your luggage. If you decide to go by taxi, then be sure to book one at the official taxi stand inside the arrivals lobby.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: This is the most expensive option but it’s also the most comfortable and convenient. You can book a private transfer to your hotel in Puebla City or Cholula on Bookaway .

From Mexico City

BY BUS: The ADO and AU bus companies offer routes to Puebla CAPU from Mexico City, either from the airport or from the TAPO bus terminal in the city center. The one-way journey takes about 2 hours. We’ve ridden many first-class intercity buses throughout Mexico and have found them to be safe and very comfortable.

You can buy tickets at the bus terminal but if you’re traveling on a tight schedule, then you may want to book them in advance through busbud . This is highly recommended if your trip falls on a peak travel day in Mexico.

BY GUIDED TOUR: Thanks to its proximity, Puebla can be visited from Mexico City on a day trip. You can do this on your own but it may be easier and less stressful to do it on a guided tour so you don’t have to worry about transportation. You can choose from a range of guided tours to Puebla from Mexico City through Get Your Guide .

By Rental Car

If you’d prefer to drive yourself and visit Puebla in a private car, then you can rent one through rentalcars.com .

WHERE TO STAY IN PUEBLA

Many people visit Puebla on a day trip from Mexico City but if you have the time, then we recommend staying 1-2 nights to give you a better appreciation for the city. Here are a few of the most highly-rated hotels in Puebla:

If you don’t think any of these hotels are right for you, then you can check out more hotel suggestions in our guide to some of the best hotels in Puebla City . You can also do a search on Booking.com , Airbnb , or use the handy map below for more listings.

THINGS TO DO IN PUEBLA

Listed below are the city’s top attractions but be sure to check out our guide on the best things to do in Pubela for more suggestions.

1. Visit Puebla Cathedral and Other Notable Churches

You’ll find many beautiful churches in Puebla City, but none are more impressive than Puebla Cathedral. It’s the focal point of the historic center with its two towers measuring 230 ft (70 m) each.

The cathedral is located right next to the zocalo so it’s a great place to start your day of exploration in Puebla. I don’t think you can climb the towers but keep an eye (and ear) out for Campana Maria. It’s the largest of the ten bells in the Old Bell Tower, weighing in at a whopping 8+ tons.

Located not too far from Puebla Cathedral, Templo de Santo Domingo won’t impress you with its size but it’ll wow you with its incredibly ornate interior. Featuring 24K golden stucco, the Capilla del Rosario or Rosary Chapel has to be one of the most visually striking chapels in all of Mexico.

Puebla Cathedral and Capilla del Rosario are the most famous but be sure to check out our article on the most beautiful churches in Puebla City . You can easily visit both on your own but if you’d prefer to go with a guide, then you may be interested in this walking tour .

2. Visit Museo Amparo and Other Museums

You’ll find a surprisingly large number of museums in the historic center but the best and most interesting is Amparo Museum. It’s a large modern art museum featuring an extensive and diverse collection of contemporary art, installation pieces, religious paintings, and pre-Hispanic art.

I’ve visited over fifty museums in Mexico and Amparo Museum is easily one of my favorites. If you could visit just one museum in Puebla, then it should definitely be this one.

If you’re a fan of the Baroque, then one museum you need to make time for is the International Museum of Baroque Art (Museo Internacional del Barroco). It boasts an impressive collection of baroque art, architecture, music, and fashion housed in an ultramodern building designed by Japanese architect Toyo Ito .

Museo Internacional del Barroco is located about a 20-minute Uber ride from the zocalo so I suggest visiting this museum only if you’re staying long enough in Puebla and have a keen interest in Baroquism.

3. Make a Stop at Biblioteca Palafoxiana

As previously described, Puebla is home to the oldest library in the Americas – Biblioteca Palafoxiana. Established in 1646, it’s a small but beautiful baroque library that houses a collection of over 45,000 books and manuscripts published between the 15th and 20th centuries.

The library is located on the second floor of Casa de la Cultura, across the street from Puebla Cathedral. You can check out our article on Biblioteca Palafoxiana for more information.

4. Try Mole Poblano and Other Local Specialties

Puebla state is home to one of the most celebrated regional cuisines in Mexico. It boasts many interesting and delicious dishes, at the very top of which is mole poblano. A Mexican national dish, it refers to a thick, dark, and ultra rich sauce made with over twenty ingredients. If you had time to try just one dish in Puebla, then it should be mole poblano.

Check out our picks for the best mole poblano restaurants in Puebla City . Alternatively, you can try it on a food tour ( Option 1 | Option 2 ).

If you’d like to make this dish at home, then you need to check out our recipe for mole poblano . It was developed by renowned local chef who runs a popular cooking class in Puebla .

5. Have a Welcome Shot at La Pasita

If you enjoy a good drink, then I recommend trying a shot of pasita at the cantina (bar) of the same name – La Pasita. Open since 1916, this Puebla institution invented this raisin-flavored liqueur served in a slender shot glass with a raisin and a cube of goat cheese. Welcome to Puebla!

La Pasita has two branches in the historic center but I recommend going to the small standing-room-only bar just off Callejón de los Sapos.

6. Buy Talavera Pottery

There are many souvenirs you can buy in Puebla , but if you want something that’s truly emblematic of the city, then two items come to mind – takeaway packs of mole poblano and Talavera pottery.

Talavera refers to a Mexican pottery tradition that originated in Spain but thrived in the Puebla area due to the region’s abundance of high-quality natural clay. You’ll find cheap Talavera pottery everywhere in downtown Puebla but the best pieces come with a special hologram that certifies their authenticity.

Check out our article on Talavera pottery to learn where to find the best pieces of Talavera in Puebla.

DAY TRIPS FROM PUEBLA

As of 2024, the state of Puebla is home to 12 pueblos magicos , tied with Jalisco and Estado de Mexico for the most in Mexico. Pueblo magico literally means “magical town” and is a tourism designation awarded to small towns that offer visitors a unique experience. Of the 12 pueblos magicos in Puebla state, Cholula is the most visited thanks to its proximity to the capital city.

There are quite a number of things you can do in Cholula but its most famous attraction is Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios (pictured below). Built during the Spanish conquest, it’s a 16th-century Roman Catholic church that sits on top of the largest pyramid in Mesoamerica.

Located just 9 miles (15 km) west of downtown Puebla, Cholula is easy enough to visit on your own. Check out our detailed Cholula travel guide for more information. Alternatively, you can visit Cholula on a guided tour ( Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 ).

Like Cholula, Atlixco is a pueblo magico in the state of Puebla that’s easily accessible from the capital city. Located about an hour away by bus, it’s famous for its natural scenery and mild climate that makes it ideal for cultivating a wide range of flowers.

Check out our Atlixco travel guide for information on how to visit this pueblo magico on your own. Altenratively, you can also visit on a guided tour ( Option 1 | Option 2 ).

3. Val’quirico and Ex-Hacienda de Chautla

If you’d like to visit Italy from Mexico, then make your way to Val’quirico, a tourist development in neighboring Tlaxcala state. It’s known for its cobblestone streets and stone houses that make it to look like a medieval village in Tuscany.

Located about 15 miles (24 km) northwest of Puebla, Val’quirico isn’t as easy to get to using public transportation so it’s best visited using a rental car or on a guided tour .

Manoro82 , CC BY-SA 4.0 DEED , via Wikimedia Commons / Processed in Photoshop and Lightroom

The same tour that takes you to Val’quirico will also take you to Ex-Hacienda de Chautla and the lavender fields at San Martin ranch.

Ex-Hacienda de Chautla is a former agricultural estate that was established in the 18th century. Today, it’s a cultural and recreational center that features an English-style mansion (pictured below), expansive gardens, orchards, and a reservoir.

AlejandroLinaresGarcia , CC BY-SA 4.0 DEED , via Wikimedia Commons / Processed in Photoshop and Lightroom

4. Cantona Ruins and Laguna de Alchichica

Most tourists to Mexico know about Teotihuacan and Chichen Itza, but if you’d like to visit an archaeological site that fewer people have been to, then you may want to spend the day at Cantona.

Located in the town of Tepeyahualco, the Cantona ruins are a remarkably well-preserved site that’s believed to be one of the largest and most urbanized cities in pre-Columbian Mexico. It’s a fascinating site that gets few visitors due to its remote location in northeastern Puebla. When I went, my guide and I were literally the only visitors there.

Unless you have your own rental car , Cantona ruins is almost impossible to get to on your own so it’s best to go on a guided tour . You can refer to my article on the Cantona archaeological site for more pictures and information.

The same private tour to Cantona will make a stop at Laguna de Alchichica, a volcanic crater lake known for its thick buildup of coral-like deposits. It’s an otherworldly sight that’s inspired many local legends, including a tale about a silver-haired siren that lures men to the bottom of the lake.

You can refer to my article on Laguna de Alchichica for more pictures and information.

5. Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park

Look west from Puebla or Cholula and you may catch a glimpse of two snow-capped mountain peaks. What you’re looking at are Mexico’s second- and third-highest peaks – Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes. They’re located in Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park and make a great day trip destination for adventurous travelers.

If you’re looking to scale a mountain on your trip to Puebla, then you can book an Iztaccíhuatl hike through Get Your Guide ( Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 ).

Haakon S. Krohn , CC BY-SA 3.0 DEED , via Wikimedia Commons / Processed in Photoshop and Lightroom

POBLANO FOOD GUIDE

As described, Puebla is famous for its food. Mole poblano and chiles en nogada are the most celebrated but there are many more delicious dishes for you to try in Puebla. Check out our Poblano food guide to know what other dishes to look for and where to try them.

WHERE TO EAT IN PUEBLA

We’ve eaten at many delicious restaurants in Puebla. These are three of our favorites but do check out our Puebla restaurant guide for more recommendations.

1. Antojitos Tomy

Antojitos Tomy is one of our favorite restaurants in Puebla. It’s a simple eatery that serves many local specialties like chalupas, chanclas, and one of my favorite sandwiches in the world – the cemita poblana. It’s an irresistible Mexican sandwich made with chicken or pork milanesa, quesillo (Oaxacan cheese), avocado, onions, papalo , and chili peppers served on a sesame-seed-crusted roll. ¡Que rico!

If this sandwich looks good to you, then be sure to check out our article on the best cemitas in Puebla for more suggestions.

2. Antojitos Mellos

We lived in the Azcarate neighborhood of Puebla and Antojitos Mellos was our go-to restaurant. They serve many tasty Pueblan and Mexican dishes like mole poblano, pipian, pozole, and mole de panza (pictured below). We’ve tried almost every dish on their menu and have never been disappointed.

Antojitos Mellos is located about a 20-minute walk east of the zocalo.

3. El Mural de los Poblanos

To be honest, I’m more of a street food and rustic eatery type of guy but for special occasions, there are few restaurants better than El Mural de los Poblanos. In fact, ask any local what the best restaurant in Pubela is and most will point you to El Mural.

Located in the historic center, El Mural de los Poblanos is a more upscale eatery that serves more refined versions of Mexican classics. It’s the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a special meal in Puebla.

If you’re an adventurous eater and visit Puebla between February and May, then you need to try escamoles (pictured below). Known as “Mexican caviar”, it’s an interesting dish made with ant larvae and pupae. As far as I know, El Mural is one of the very few restaurants in Puebla that serves this delicacy.

POINTS OF INTEREST IN PUEBLA

To help you find these museums, hotels, restaurants, and other attractions in Puebla, I’ve pinned them all on this map. Click on the link for a live version of the map.

PUEBLA ITINERARY

Many visitors will only stay for the day so I’ve come up with this sample 1-day Puebla itinerary to help you plan your trip. One day is enough to see the top attractions in the historic center but if you’d like to experience more of Poblano culture and its cuisine, then longer stays are recommended.

PUEBLA TRAVEL TIPS

1. stay connected with a mexico sim card or esim.

A reliable internet connection is a must when traveling. You’ll need it to navigate, translate, and do last-minute research.

In my experience, pocket wifi devices don’t work as well in Mexico so you’ll need a SIM card during your trip. There are a few ISPs in Mexico but Telcel is generally regarded to be the best while airalo is a trusted provider of eSIMs.

You can buy a Telcel SIM card in Mexico but I strongly recommend getting one before your trip. You can order one online through Amazon (affiliate link). It’ll come pre-loaded with 3GB of data so you’ll be connected and ready to explore as soon as you get off your plane in Mexico.

If you’d rather get an eSIM, then you can buy one in advance through airalo .

2. Learn Basic Spanish

Many people in Mexico don’t speak English so it helps to know a few of these useful phrases in Spanish:

(Muchas) gracias : “Thank you (very much)” Por favor : “Please” Buenos dias : “Good morning” Buenas tardes : “Good afternoon” Buenas noches : “Good evening” Con permiso : “Excuse me” (when passing someone on the street) Perdon/Desculpe : “Sorry” or “Excuse me” (when you didn’t hear what someone said) La cuenta por favor : “The bill please” ¿Cuanto cuesta? : “How much does it cost?”

3. Bookmark the Puebla Travel Forum on Tripadvisor

Although Puebla is considered one of the safest states in Mexico, safety can be a concern in other parts of the country so it’s important to always be informed. In my experience, the best way of doing that is to monitor the city forums on Tripadvisor. If there are any recent incidents that you should know about, then chances are, people will be talking about them there.

Click on the links to open the Puebla travel forum on Tripadvisor. These forums are frequented by locals and expats so it’s a great place to ask questions too.

4. Start at the Tourist Information Center

A good place to start your visit to any city in Mexico is the zocalo, and a great place to get information is at the Tourist Information Center, which is usually located around or near the zocalo. You can ask questions and pick up brochures, maps, and other helpful information on tours, transportation, and other travel-related services.

If you arrive in Puebla without a clear idea of how you want to spend your day, then the Tourist Information Center is the best place to start.

5. Take Uber

Uber is available in Puebla so take it if you ever need to catch a ride somewhere. Unless it’s from an official taxi stand at the airport or bus station, I’m extremely wary of taking taxis in Mexico, especially after reading about this express kidnapping incident in Puebla.

6. Don’t Drink Tap Water

Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Mexico so you should always buy bottled water or drink from a filtered water bottle . Diarrhea is never fun, especially on a trip, so check out my article on the drinking water in Mexico for more helpful tips.

7. Leave a Tip

There’s a tipping culture in Mexico so expect to pay a tip at restaurants and at other places that offer you a service. Personally, I always leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill. You can read my article on tipping in Mexico for more information.

8. Get Travel Insurance

In my opinion, getting travel insurance is a must when traveling. Frankly, you never know what might happen on a trip so it’s always a good idea to be prepared.

For peace of mind, we purchase travel insurance policies from SafetyWing before every trip. Click on the link to learn more and get a free quotation.

9. Bring the Right Power Adapter

Mexico has Type A or Type B electrical outlets so be sure to bring the right power adapters for your devices. Electrical voltage is 127V and the standard frequency is 60Hz.

OUR TRAVEL GEAR

Here’s some of the travel equipment and gear that proved very useful on our trip to Puebla and Mexico. (Amazon affiliate links)

Some of the links in this travel guide to Puebla, Mexico are affiliate links, meaning we’ll make a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. As always, we only recommend products and services that we use ourselves. We really appreciate your support as it helps us keep this free Puebla travel website going. ¡Muchisimas gracias!

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The Top 14 Things to Do in Puebla, Mexico

Mexico's fifth-largest city, Puebla de Zaragoza is the capital of Mexico's Puebla state. With well-conserved Baroque-style architecture, a UNESCO-recognized historic center, and iconic regional dishes like mole poblano, Puebla's blend of modernity and rich history make the city a must-visit on any Mexico itinerary. As it lies 80 miles southeast of Mexico City, Puebla is an easy day trip from the country's capital , but it is well worth staying a few days. Here are 15 of our favorite things to do.

Stroll Around the Zócalo de Puebla

Located in the city's historic center is the Zócalo de Puebla, a main square and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Formerly a marketplace and bullfighting stage, this large and attractive plaza is now a common gathering ground for cultural and political events. Plan a visit here to see the Catedral de Puebla (Puebla Cathedral), statues and monuments, and San Miguel Arcángel Fountain, which dates back to 1777. The Zócalo can get quite crowded on weekends, but it makes for great people-watching. This is the perfect starting point for a walking tour of Puebla.

Tour the Amparo Museum

Spread across two buildings, the Museo Amparo (Amparo Museum) houses impressive collections of pre-Colombian, Viceregal, 19th-century, and contemporary Mexican art. Among the objects here, you'll find bowls, stelae, figures, and more crafted by civilizations indigenous to Mesoamerica, including the Aztec, Maya, and Teotihuacan cultures. Along with excellent museography and interactive displays, you'll find a variety of temporary Mexican and international exhibits highlighting themes ranging from archaeology and history to architecture and design. Be sure to head up to the café and rooftop terrace, where you'll get a gorgeous view of Puebla.

See the International Museum of the Baroque

 Getty Images / Edmund Sumner/VIEW

The striking architecture of this all-white building, designed by Japanese architect and 2013 Pritzker Prize winner Toyo Ito, is decidedly modern but the exterior belies what you'll discover inside. Spanning seven halls, you'll see a stunning collection of paintings, sculptures, installations, and interactive exhibits that explore the Baroque period, which ran from the early 17th to the late 18th centuries, in Mexico and abroad. A highlight is the Angelopolis exhibit, which features a scale model of Puebla's historical center. It's open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday to Sunday.

Meet Elephants, Giraffes and Tigers at Africam Safari

Suzanne Barbezat

This wildlife conservation zoo is home to more than 450 species of animals that roam across roughly 500 acres of various habitats, from Botswana's Okavango Delta to the Huasteca. View elephants, giraffes, rhinos, tigers, zebras, and more from the comfort of your own car or via guided tour (4x4, bike, and walking tours available). You can also sign up for fun and educational experiences with the different animals, including drinking cocktails as safari animals roam around you, picnicking with the giraffes, and learning how to track animals. Africam Safari is located 10 miles south of Puebla; buses leave from the Zócalo and the CAPU bus terminal daily.

Visit the Catedral de Puebla

Catedral de Puebla (Puebla Cathedral) is a Roman Catholic church located right in the city's historic center, on the southern side of the Zócalo. Although construction began in 1575, it wasn't completed until the late 1600s. Its two towers, which stand at about 226 feet, are the tallest in Mexico. Admire the cathedral's architectural design, a blend of Baroque and Renaissance-Herrerian styles, before stepping inside to explore its 14 chapels.

Sample Some of Puebla's Delicious Regional Foods

Fonda de Santa Clara / Facebook

Puebla is well-known among Mexicans for its cuisine: Both mole poblano and chiles en nogada are said to originate here. Be sure to try the mole at Fonda Santa Clara , a Poblano landmark with two locations in the historical center, or at Casona de la China Poblana , a boutique hotel whose restaurant serves up a pine nut-based version. Chalupas—mini corn tortillas topped with shredded pork, chopped onion, and red and green chili sauce—are also very popular, and can be best enjoyed at La Casita Poblana . And if you're hankering for some snacks, La Calle de los Dulces (Sweet Street) is the place for treats like camote, muégano, and las tortitas de Santa Clara.

Learn About Cinco de Mayo at the Forts of Loreto and Guadalupe

 Getty Images / Roberto Vaca

The Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, in which the Mexican army led by General Ignacio Zaragoza defeated French forces, is celebrated every year as the Cinco de Mayo holiday —and it took place right here. Overlooking the city atop Acueyametepc hill, the neighboring forts of Loreto and Guadalupe (Fuertes de Loreto y Guadalupe) were originally built as chapels in the 16th century, but both were fortified in the 1800s to protect the city during its independence movement. Wander around Fort Guadalupe to see the remains of its walls and cannons, then visit the Museo de la No Intervención (Museum of Non-Intervention), which showcases weapons, uniforms, documents, and oil paintings portraying the battle. If you take the Turibus city tour, you'll drive by here, but you're better off taking a taxi if you would like to visit the museum.

Take a Day Trip to Cholula

Just 6 miles outside of Puebla, you can see The Great Pyramid of Cholula, the world's largest pyramid by volume. Also known as Tlachihualtepetl, it is said to comprise six structures, which collectively stand at 180 feet tall and have a base of 1,480 by 1,480 feet. Now mostly covered in vegetation, you can explore the archaeological site, including a fraction of its 5 miles of tunnels, on a guided tour before visiting the on-site museum. The church at the top, La Iglesia de la Virgen de Los Remedios, is open and free to the public.

Get Lost in the Stacks of Palafoxian Library

 Getty Images / ​De Agostini / G. Dagli Orti

The oldest public library in the Americas, the original collection of the Biblioteca Palafoxiana (Palafoxian Library) was donated by Bishop Juan de Palafox in 1646 with the stipulation that the books be made available to the public and not just academics. Now boasting more than 45,000 works, the library features not only its original collection of books but also the original shelving, which dates all the way back to the 1770s. Don't miss the splendid 14th-century altarpiece, located at the far end of the library. Biblioteca Palafoxiana is open for guided tours, Tuesday through Sunday.

Sign Up for a Talavera Workshop

Puebla isn't called the "City of Tiles" for nothing. Talavera poblana (Talavera pottery) is a type of hand-painted, tin-enameled earthenware that was first introduced to Puebla in the 16th century by colonizers from Talavera de la Reina, Spain. Today, the city is one of the few places in the world producing authentic Talavera, and seeing some of Puebla's master artisans at work will add a whole new level of interest to your shopping expedition. You can watch the whole process by signing up for a workshop tour of Talavera de la Reyna or Uriarte Talavera , after which you will have the opportunity to purchase some beautiful ceramics to take home.

Shop for Traditional Handicrafts at El Parián Market

Dedé Vargas/Getty Images

Located in the historic center of Puebla, this charming handicrafts market (also known as the Antigua Plaza de San Roque) is the largest in the city. With 112 stands, you'll find a little bit of everything here, from Talavera pottery and traditional clothing to wax dolls, blown glass, and Amozco silverware. Alternatively, you can check out the Mercado La Victoria, a late 19th-century market that's been converted into a modern shopping center with department stores and upscale boutiques, or the Sunday flea market on Callejón de los Sapos (Frog Alley).

Marvel at the Rosary Chapel of Santo Domingo Church

The opulently decorated Capilla del Rosario (Rosary Chapel) inside the Templo de Santo Domingo (Santo Domingo Church) is a dazzling example of the New Spanish Baroque style. The church was built between 1571 and 1611, but the chapel was added later, in 1690, to teach locals how to pray the rosary. At one time called the Eighth Wonder of the World , it is adorned in a dazzling display of 24-carat gold leaves as well as stucco and onyx work. It's located just three blocks from the Zócalo; admission is free.

Hike One of the City's Nearby Volcanoes

About 28 miles from Pueblo is Lq Malinche National Park, home to the sixth-tallest mountain in Mexico. The 14,566-foot peak of La Malinche volcano (also known as Matlalcueye or Malintzin) can be reached by trekking the difficult 7.6-mile summit route. Passing through thick forests and winding up a rocky ridgeline, the trail is no easy feat (there's a 4,183-foot elevation gain)—but the views are well worth it. Further afield (37 miles) is Izta-Popo National Park , where you'll find Mexico's third-highest peak. IztaccíhuatlIf (Izta, for short) rises more than 17,000 feet above sea level; if you're up for the challenge, take the strenuous 7.6-mile summit trail , which has an elevation gain of 4,537 feet. Note that this trail is recommended for experts only, as the high altitude and icy terrain add an extra challenge to the trek.

Visit an Art Museum Housed in a Former Convent

Getty Images / De Agostini / S. Gutierrez

According to legend, the former convent of Santa Rosa is where mole poblano was first prepared. Although the 17th-century building is now home to the Poblano Museum of Popular Art, you can still step inside the kitchen, which is decked out in nearly 18 thousand Talavera tiles. Elsewhere in the museum, you'll find textiles, silverware, wooden masks, and other folk art created by ethnic groups indigenous to the region, including the Mixtecs, Popolocas, and Totonacs. The Museo de Arte Religioso de Santa Monica (the Religious Art Museum of Santa Monica) is located in a former convent, too, and it is here where the nuns allegedly invented chiles en nogada. Recently renovated and restored, the museum features sacred paintings, sculptures, embroidery, and altarpieces.

World Population Review. "Population of Cities in Mexico (2022)." Retrieved on February 18, 2022.

Related Articles

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Once a bastion of conservatism, Catholicism and tradition, Puebla has come out of its colonial-era shell. The city retains a fantastically well-preserved center, a stunning cathedral and a wealth of beautiful churches, while younger poblanos (people from Puebla) are embracing the city’s increasingly thriving art and nightlife scenes.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Catedral de Puebla

Puebla’s impressive cathedral, which appeared on Mexico’s M$500 bill until 2019, occupies the entire block south of the zócalo. Its architecture is a…

Museo Internacional del Barroco

This monumental white, architecturally spectacular museum is dedicated to the showy baroque movement – art, fashion, music and literature. The museum,…

Museo Amparo

This superb private museum, housed in two linked 16th- and 17th-century colonial buildings, is loaded with pre-Hispanic artifacts, yet the interior design…

Iglesia de la Compañía

This Jesuit church with a 1767 Churrigueresque facade is also called Espíritu Santo. Beneath the altar is a tomb said to be that of a 17th-century South…

Museo Casa del Alfeñique

This renovated colonial house is an outstanding example of the over-the-top 18th-century decorative style alfeñique, characterized by elaborate stucco…

Casa de la Cultura

Occupying the entire block facing the south side of the cathedral, the former bishop’s palace is a classic 17th-century brick-and-tile edifice that now…

Biblioteca Palafoxiana

Situated above the Casa de la Cultura and founded in 1646, Biblioteca Palafoxiana was the first public library in the Americas. For this, Palafoxiana has…

Templo de Santo Domingo

This fine Dominican church features a stunning Capilla del Rosario (Rosary Chapel), south of the main altar, which is the main reason to come here. Built…

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Oct 12, 2019 • 4 min read

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A Guide to Puebla, Mexico, Where Gilded Churches Meet a Thriving Cultural Scene

The colonial city — and the country’s fourth-largest — is a world away from its bustling capital.

The kitchen of the colonial mansion that became part of the Amparo Museum, which was left intact even as other rooms were converted into galleries. Credit... Mariano Fernandez

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By Kate Donnelly

• Nov. 27, 2018

Over the past couple of years, it seems, Americans have discovered the joys of Mexico City en masse. What they might not know — and what stylish locals long have — is that the city of Puebla, another design-and-food-rich destination, is just a two-and-a-half-hour drive southeast. With a population of 1.5 million, it too lies beneath misty mountains (including the still-puffing Popocatépetl volcano ) and possesses a rich history.

The Aztecs ruled the region until the Spanish arrived in 1519. The latter’s architectural contributions are the city’s blocks of candy-colored mansions and many churches, including the especially ornate Capilla del Rosario, with intricate carvings covered in 23-karat gold leaf. No doubt it helped make the town attractive to Napoleon III and his forces, whose defeat in the 1862 Battle of Puebla is commemorated by Cinco de Mayo .

The largest point of commonality, though, is that like the capital, Puebla is in the midst of a cultural renaissance. A new generation has taken up traditional crafts, offering fresh takes on tiled table sets and hand-embroidered clothing in a much less expensive setting. Since 2016, Puebla has seen the opening of the International Museum of the Baroque , set in a curvilinear concrete building designed by Toyo Ito , and a dozen or so hotels and restaurants, almost all of which serve Puebla’s culinary claim to fame — mole poblano, a thick, earthy-sweet sauce of chiles, herbs and chocolate thought to have been invented by a group of 17th-century nuns. Some batches simmer for nearly three days, and the ingredients vary greatly from kitchen to kitchen. It’s the particular mix that lends each one its complexity, and really, the same could be said for Puebla itself, where multicolored tiled facades sit alongside gilded spires.

Hotel Cartesiano

Steps away from the Callejón de los Sapos (Alley of the Toads) weekend flea market, which has everything from beaded bracelets to figurines of the silver-masked Mexican wrestler El Santo, stands the 78-room Hotel Cartesiano , two renovated buildings — one an old tile factory, the other an 18th-century mansion — connected by a palm-tree-filled courtyard. Inside, there’s a mural in the modern lobby by José Rivelino depicting pre-Hispanic plants and fossils. After checking out the art, head to the rooftop pool or restaurant, where you should order the squash tacos sprinkled with dehydrated bean dust.

Rosewood Puebla

In the residential Barrio del Alto, the year-old Rosewood Puebla has a royal blue exterior that matches the 2,458-square-foot tiled fountain out front, along with its own 300-year-old chapel. The 78 rooms have embossed headboards and wrought-iron chandeliers, as well as copper-nickel tubs in the bathrooms. Additional soaks can be had at the hotel spa, which offers a body-wrap treatment that uses cinnamon- and rosemary-infused cloths.

La Purificadora

Set inside a 19th-century water-purification factory, the city’s first real boutique hotel came in 2007, care of the design-savvy Grupo Habita, which commissioned Ricardo Legorreta to build an open-air lobby around the building’s old stone walls. The architect opted for a largely black and white palate, against which the boxy Serrano Monjaraz sofas — in a bright violet hue meant to evoke a bishop’s vestments — really pop. He also built floating balconies onto some of the 26 rooms, along with a narrow, glass-encased pool with views of the Templo de San Francisco. In 2020, a sister property will open in a nearby 1890s French neo-Classical mansion being reimagined by the Mexican architect Frida Escobedo.

Following stints in Barcelona and Paris, where he worked at the Michelin-starred Ze Kitchen Galerie, Angel Vázquez returned home to Mexico in 2003 to open his first restaurant, Intro, which fuses the flavors of various international cuisines (Swedish, Thai) with those he knew as a child. His new spot, Augurio — two blocks off the zócalo (main square) in the Quinta Esencia hotel — is more rustic but continues in the same culinary vein: Its mole poblano, with just 14 ingredients — and no chocolate — is based on Vázquez’s great-grandmother’s recipe. He’s also perfected various elevated riffs on chanclas — baked bread stuffed with chorizo, longanzia and ground pork and topped with a chile guajillo sauce.

El Mural de los Poblanos

A leafy oasis in the heart of the city, this courtyard cafe has stone archways, lanterns and a vibrantly tiled tableau vivant of local heroes, from saints to actors to Don Cuco El Guapo, a ’90s-era robot that Puebla scientists taught to play the piano. Its chef, Liz Galicia , pays homage to her surroundings by using local produce and traditional cooking methods. Don’t miss her sampler of cemitas (tortas served on a brioche-like roll), or chiles en nogada (stuffed poblano peppers with a creamy walnut sauce). The latter is often followed by pasita, a sweet, prune-forward liqueur that is in turn chased with a cube of goat cheese.

Licorería San Pedrito

Most beloved of Puebla’s excellent and unfussy cocktail bars (others include Miel de Agave and Central de Agaves) is Licorería San Pedrito, with a statuette of the saintly fisherman nestled among its bottles of rare mezcal, much of which was brewed in earthen pits around the region. The bar is famous for its pulque, a milky drink made with fermented agave juice, as well as its “grosellita,” which features aguardiente, cane sugar, lemon juice and gooseberry soda. Av. 9 Ote. 16, Centro

Uriarte Talavera

Puebla’s most coveted export, Talavera pottery is made by covering fired volcanic clay slabs, first with an opaque white glaze and then with hand-painted decorative motifs, most often in floral or celestial patterns. The technique, initially introduced by the Spanish, was kept alive after the Mexican War of Independence by a handful of cooperatives like Uriarte Talavera , which opened in 1824. Visitors to the workshop can observe the ceramists, who still use mule-hair brushes and the traditional sextet of colors (yellow, black, green, orange, mauve and blue), or make something of their own. There’s also a shop selling artisan-made teacups, platters and urns.

Denisse Kuri

In 2015, after studying textile design at Puebla’s Universidad Ibero, local Denisse Kuri opened her namesake boutique just west of downtown in Colonia La Paz. It’s filled with her own creations — embroidered cotton caftans and knee-length vests that she weaves on a backstrap loom — as well as leather and fringed hemp sandals, beach hats fashioned from jipijapa palm and pillows made by Chiapas-based makers affiliated with the artisan collective Kip Tik. On the lower level, a second shop sells thick wool rugs from Tlaxcala and fabrics embroidered by the Huichol people in Mexico’s Sierra Madre mountains.

International Museum of the Baroque

Toyo Ito’s hypermodern, earthquake-resistant design for this museum , with white, sail-like slabs of concrete reflected in a swirling fountain, is in stark stylistic contrast to its contents — paintings, sculpture, clothing and objects from the 16th- through the 18th-century Baroque period. Those in need of a break from the splendor can rest on one of the wavelike benches designed by Tokyo’s Fujie Kazuko Atelier or head up the helical staircase to the museum restaurant, Barroco, which has minimalist décor and colorful dishes (e.g., pulled pork with peas, radish and green beans) created by the esteemed chef Martha Ortiz.

Amparo Museum

In the 1980s, a former hospital and the next-door 18th-century colonial mansion were converted into a public museum that now houses one of the country’s most important collections of colonial and pre-Columbian Mexican art. In addition to a Mayan altar and Aztec animal carvings, there are also works by the likes of Frida Kahlo and Javier Marín. Five years ago, the architect Enrique Norten oversaw a renovation of the two buildings that reconfigured the exhibition spaces to allow for digital installations and live performances, and he added terraces, gardens and a glass-cubed rooftop cafe that offers 360-degree views.

Biblioteca Palafoxiana

Founded in 1646 by a bishop who offered up his 5,000-volume personal collection, Biblioteca Palafoxiana is one of the oldest public libraries in the Americas. Today, much of its content has been digitized, but the grand space, which still smells of paper and wood, tells its own story. Visitors cycle past the three tiers of wooden shelves, now filled with over 45,000 volumes, some of them handwritten. At the far side of this temple of books, you’ll see a gilded altar flanked by a mid-14th-century painting of the Madonna by the pre-Renaissance Italian artist Nino Pisano.

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Top 15 Best Things to Do in Puebla, Mexico: A Travel Guide

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Looking for the best ideas on what to do in Puebla, Mexico ? Nestled in the heartland of Mexico, amidst the grandeur of Central Mexico, lies the captivating city of Puebla de Zaragoza, commonly referred to as Puebla. As the capital city of Puebla State, Puebla enthralls visitors with its historical splendor and cultural riches. With a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and colonial history , Puebla has charmed travelers for centuries. Discover architectural wonders, indulge in delectable cuisine, and immerse yourself in the profound sense of heritage that defines this enchanting destination. Read on to uncover the top recommendations for what to do in Puebla.

Table of Contents

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Adding to its allure, Puebla has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, a testament to its exceptional cultural and historical significance. Like other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mexico such as those found in Guanajuato or Oaxaca , Puebla’s city’s historic center, lovingly preserved, transports visitors to a bygone era, highlighting a colonial past and architectural traditions of the time. As you wander through its cobblestone streets and admire the meticulously adorned buildings, it becomes evident why Puebla holds a prestigious place on the global stage.

Puebla’s rich history and cultural significance

Immersed in Puebla’s historic district, travelers are greeted by an abundance of colonial buildings that paint a vivid picture of the city’s vibrant past. Puebla’s strategic location on the trade route between Mexico City and the port of Veracruz bestowed upon it immense wealth and cultural diversity. The result is an architectural mosaic inspired by various influences, including Spanish, indigenous, and even Asian design elements. Such a harmonious blend has firmly established Puebla as a cultural center and a testament to Latin America’s architectural richness.

Journeying through Puebla is like stepping back in time to the colonial era. Every street corner beckons with a treasure trove of stories, where grand churches, elegant mansions, and palaces evoke the spirit of Mexico’s rich colonial times. The city’s historical tapestry weaves together with the threads of Mexican history, from the Aztec civilization to the Spanish conquest and subsequent independence struggles. Puebla proudly stands as a living testament to the nation’s resilience and heritage.

What to Do in Puebla: Top 15 Ideas

As you embark on your adventure in this remarkable city, we present to you a curated guide to the 15 best things to do in Puebla. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a culinary connoisseur, or an avid explorer, Puebla offers a myriad of captivating experiences that will leave an indelible mark on your heart. From architectural wonders to gastronomic delights, each recommendation has been carefully selected to provide you with a truly unforgettable journey through Puebla’s cultural tapestry.

Get ready to lose yourself in the beauty of the main square, Plaza de la Constitución, dominated by the awe-inspiring Catedral de Puebla, an iconic symbol of the city. Delve into the pages of history as you visit the Biblioteca Palafoxiana, the oldest library in the Americas, and marvel at the Baroque masterpiece, Capilla del Rosario. Indulge your artistic senses at the Museo Amparo, showcasing Mexican artistry through the ages. Stroll through the lively Parian Market and Callejon de los Sapos, where local markets and antique shops await, offering a glimpse into Puebla’s vibrant present and storied past.

But the charms of Puebla extend beyond its historic center. Venture beyond the city’s boundaries to witness the majesty of the Great Pyramid of Cholula, the largest pyramid in the world. Ascend the Estrella de Puebla Ferris Wheel to witness breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area, and satisfy your taste buds with the iconic Mole Poblano and Chiles en Nogada, tantalizing dishes synonymous with Puebla’s culinary prowess.

Our guide will also take you beyond the city to explore what to do in Puebla’s enchanting surroundings. Uncover the natural beauty of the Botanical Garden and the awe-inspiring Guadalupe Forts, offering captivating vistas of the landscape. Discover neighboring towns like Cholula and Atlixco, with their own distinct charm and close proximity to Puebla. And for the adventurous souls, witness the power of the mighty Popocatepetl, an active volcano that stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur.

Join us as we unveil the 15 best things to do in Puebla, an ode to a city that proudly embraces its history, culture, and the spirit of Mexico. Let the magic of Puebla unfold before your eyes as you immerse yourself in its architectural splendor, savor its culinary delights, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

A Walking Tour of the Historic Center

Embark on a captivating walking tour through the heart of Puebla’s historic center, where centuries of history and architectural marvels await your discovery. The city center, with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved colonial buildings, invites you to wander and immerse yourself in its enchanting ambiance. To truly appreciate the charm and character of Puebla, a walking tour is the perfect way to explore its hidden corners and uncover its captivating stories. Whether you choose a guided tour or decide to venture out on your own, each step will reveal the rich heritage that permeates this remarkable city.

The Main Square and the Cathedral de Puebla

The pulsating heart of Puebla’s historic center is the magnificent main square, Plaza de la Constitución. This bustling square is surrounded by awe-inspiring colonial architecture, creating a stunning backdrop for your exploration. At the center of it all stands the iconic Catedral de Puebla, a masterpiece that showcases the city’s architectural prowess. Gaze in awe at its towering spires and intricate facade as you marvel at the grandeur of this remarkable Roman Catholic cathedral. Step inside to admire the ornate interior, adorned with beautiful sculptures, stunning stained glass windows, and intricate altars. The Cathedral de Puebla stands as a testament to the city’s deep-rooted religious heritage and architectural brilliance.

Visit the Biblioteca Palafoxiana, the Oldest Library in the Americas

For lovers of knowledge and history, a visit to the Biblioteca Palafoxiana is an absolute must. Founded in 1646, this extraordinary library holds the distinction of being the oldest in the Americas. Named after its founder, Bishop Juan de Palafox y Mendoza, the Biblioteca Palafoxiana is home to a remarkable collection of rare books and manuscripts. Stepping inside this historic institution is like stepping into a time capsule. The hallowed halls and meticulously preserved shelves house countless treasures, each with its own story to tell. Admire the impressive wooden bookshelves and intricate ceiling frescoes as you absorb the wisdom and history that fills the air. The Biblioteca Palafoxiana is a testament to the enduring power of literature and learning.

Discover the Beauty of the Capilla del Rosario

Prepare to be captivated by the ethereal beauty of the Capilla del Rosario, a jewel nestled within the Church of Santo Domingo. This stunning chapel is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, renowned for its exquisite ornamentation and artistic details. As you step inside, you are greeted by a symphony of gold leaf-covered walls, intricate sculptures, and breathtaking frescoes that adorn every surface. The craftsmanship and attention to detail are awe-inspiring, reflecting the dedication of the indigenous and mestizo artisans who brought this chapel to life. The Capilla del Rosario is not just a place of worship but a work of art that transcends time, inviting visitors to marvel at its beauty.

Explore the Museo Amparo and Its Collection of Mexican Art

Art enthusiasts will find true delight in the Museo Amparo, a cultural gem that showcases the rich artistic heritage of Mexico. Housed within two meticulously restored colonial buildings, this museum takes visitors on a captivating journey through Mexican art history. From pre-Columbian artifacts to modern masterpieces, the Museo Amparo offers a diverse and comprehensive collection that spans centuries. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, diverse mediums, and thought-provoking exhibitions that highlight the creativity and cultural depth of this remarkable country. The museum’s innovative displays and engaging narratives provide a deeper understanding of Mexican art’s evolution and its profound connection to the nation’s identity.

Experience Parian Market and Callejon de los Sapos

To truly embrace the spirit of Puebla’s local culture, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Parian Market and the charming Callejon de los Sapos. The Parian Market, located in the heart of the historic center, offers a lively and colorful experience. This vibrant marketplace showcases a variety of traditional handicrafts, vibrant textiles, and unique souvenirs. Take your time to browse through the stalls, interact with local artisans, and find the perfect memento to remember your time in Puebla. Just a stone’s throw away, the Callejon de los Sapos (Alley of the Frogs) beckons with its antique shops, quaint cafes, and intriguing art galleries. This charming alleyway is a haven for collectors and art enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into Puebla’s storied past and artistic heritage.

Puebla’s historic center is a blend of architectural marvels, cultural treasures, and vibrant markets waiting for you to explore. Embark on a walking tour to immerse yourself in the rich heritage that permeates every street, and marvel at the grandeur of the main square and the Cathedral de Puebla. Delve into knowledge at the Biblioteca Palafoxiana, and let the beauty of the Capilla del Rosario leave you spellbound. Immerse yourself in the artistic realm at the Museo Amparo, and indulge your senses in the lively Parian Market and the antique-filled Callejon de los Sapos. Puebla’s historic center is a true testament to the city’s profound cultural significance and its place as one of Mexico’s most remarkable destinations.

Uncovering Puebla’s Cultural and Historical Gems

It was not just the Spanish that held sway over developing the Mexico we know today. And that is evident in Puebla. The French influence in the area of Puebla left a significant mark on its history and culture. One of the most notable events involving the French in Puebla was the Battle of Puebla, which took place on May 5, 1862. During this battle, the Mexican army, under the leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza, successfully repelled a much larger and better-equipped French force. This victory, known as Cinco de Mayo, became a symbol of Mexican resistance against foreign intervention. This is the origin of the Cinco de Mayo holiday that is so often celebrated in the United States.

The French presence in Puebla extended beyond the battle. They also brought with them a culinary influence. French cuisine and culinary techniques made their way into Puebla, resulting in the fusion of French and Mexican flavors. This influence can still be seen today in the regional cuisine of Puebla, with dishes such as Chiles en Nogada, a traditional Mexican dish with French-inspired elements.

Discover the International Museum of the Baroque

For a truly immersive experience in the world of art and culture, a visit to the International Museum of the Baroque is a must. Designed by renowned architect Toyo Ito, this stunning museum showcases the magnificence of the Baroque style in an innovative and contemporary setting. As you step inside, you are greeted by a seamless fusion of art, architecture, and technology that brings the Baroque era to life. The museum’s vast collection spans various mediums, including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and multimedia installations. Immerse yourself in the opulence and grandeur of the Baroque period as you explore the museum’s thoughtfully curated exhibitions. The International Museum of the Baroque is a true testament to Puebla’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its artistic heritage.

Visit the Templo de Santo Domingo

If you can spare the time, don’t skip out on the rest of the church when you visit the Capilla del Rosario, and be sure to visit the rest of Templo de Santo Domingo, a true architectural gem that exemplifies the city’s rich cultural heritage. This magnificent church, built in the 16th century, showcases an impressive fusion of Baroque and Plateresque architectural styles. Admire the intricate facade adorned with intricate stone carvings and decorative elements that reflect the mastery of Puebla’s artisans. Step inside to be awestruck by the grandeur of the interior, where gilded altars, colorful frescoes, and beautifully crafted sculptures create an atmosphere of reverent beauty. The Templo de Santo Domingo stands as a testament to Puebla’s architectural excellence and its profound religious devotion.

Learn about the Battle of Puebla and the Significance of Cinco de Mayo

Delve into the pages of history as you uncover the story behind the Battle of Puebla, a defining moment in Mexican history. If you live in the U.S. this is the event that led to our annual Cinco de Mayo celebrations so you should be sure to take note. Visit the historic sites and landmarks associated with this significant event, which took place on May 5th, 1862. Learn about the brave Mexican army’s heroic defense against powerful French forces and the subsequent victory that Cinco de Mayo commemorates. Explore museums and exhibitions that offer insights into the battle’s historical context, the valor of the Mexican soldiers, and the impact of this triumph on Mexico’s struggle for independence. Puebla’s connection to Cinco de Mayo is a source of pride, and exploring this historical episode allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Mexico’s rich heritage.

Take a Day Trip to the Great Pyramid of Cholula

When considering what to do in Puebla, it’s not just European influence that takes the stage. You are able to see the remains of indigenous wonders as well. Just a short distance from Puebla lies th e Great Pyramid of Cholula , the largest pyramid in the world. Embark on a fascinating day trip to this archaeological site and uncover the secrets of the ancient Mesoamerican civilization that once thrived here. As you ascend the now-buried pyramid, marvel at its immense size and imagine the bustling city that once surrounded it. The panoramic views from the top offer a glimpse into the region’s history and natural beauty. There was a time when you could explore the network of tunnels that provide another glimpse into the ancient world. But they are currently closed to the public at the time of writing. The Great Pyramid of Cholula stands as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural legacy of the pre-Columbian civilizations that shaped Mexico’s history.

Enjoy Puebla’s Unique Experiences and Culinary Delights

No visit to Puebla is complete without savoring its renowned culinary delights. Indulge your taste buds in the exquisite flavors of Mole Poblano, a rich and complex sauce that blends chocolate, chili peppers, and spices into a tantalizing symphony of tastes. Another must-try dish is Chiles en Nogada, a culinary masterpiece that celebrates Mexico’s independence. This iconic dish features roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a savory mix of meat, fruits, and nuts, topped with a creamy walnut sauce and garnished with pomegranate seeds. The vibrant colors and harmonious flavors of these dishes reflect the diverse influences that have shaped Puebla’s gastronomy.

Stroll along Calle de los Dulces, the Famous Sweet Street

Indulge your sweet tooth as you take a leisurely stroll along Calle de los Dulces, also known as the Sweet Street. This charming avenue is lined with an array of traditional sweet shops, enticing you with an assortment of mouthwatering treats. Explore the colorful displays of candies, chocolates, and traditional desserts, each offering a unique taste of Puebla’s sweet culinary heritage. Sample local favorites such as camotes (sweet potato candies), jamoncillos (milk fudge), and alegrías (amaranth bars). The scents, sights, and flavors of Calle de los Dulces make it a paradise for those with a love for all things sweet.

Explore the Local Markets and Try Traditional Handicrafts

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Puebla’s local markets, where a treasure trove of traditional handicrafts and local specialties awaits. Visit the busy public markets, such as Mercado El Carmen and Mercado de Sabores, where you can browse through stalls teeming with colorful textiles, intricate Talavera pottery, and other handmade crafts. Marvel at the artistry and skill that goes into creating these unique pieces, each representing Puebla’s cultural heritage. Don’t forget to sample local delicacies, such as cemitas (a traditional sandwich), tacos arabes, and artisanal cheeses, which reflect the flavors and culinary traditions of the region. Exploring the local markets allows you to immerse yourself in Puebla’s culture and possibly even take home a piece of its artistic legacy.

Explore the African Safari at Africam Safari

Escape the city for a day and embark on a thrilling adventure at Africam Safari, a unique wildlife experience just outside Puebla. Our hotel shuttle driver recommended this to us and said it was a must-see spot! This expansive zoological park allows you to get up close and personal with a wide array of exotic animals in a natural habitat setting. Drive through the park’s vast savannah and encounter majestic giraffes, towering elephants, graceful cheetahs, and a myriad of other fascinating creatures. The immersive safari experience provides a rare opportunity to witness these magnificent animals in their element. Africam Safari is not just a zoological park; it is a conservation and educational institution that strives to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and the importance of preserving biodiversity.

Admire the Estrella de Puebla Ferris Wheel

For a breathtaking, or anxiety-inducing – depending on how you feel about heights, view of Puebla’s cityscape, head to the Estrella de Puebla Ferris Wheel. This iconic attraction offers a unique perspective as you ascend to great heights and take in panoramic vistas of the city and its surroundings. It’s the largest Ferris Wheel in Latin America and from your elevated vantage point, you can admire the architectural splendor of Puebla’s cityscape as well as the majestic mountains in the distance. Whether during the day or at night when the city is illuminated, the Estrella de Puebla Ferris Wheel provides an unforgettable experience and a bird’s-eye view of Puebla’s beauty.

Venturing Beyond Puebla City

Visit the Beautiful Botanical Garden

Just a short distance from the bustling city, Puebla offers a serene oasis in the form of its beautiful Botanical Garden. Nestled amidst the surrounding area, this lush sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape. As you wander through its well-manicured gardens, you’ll encounter a dazzling array of plant species, including vibrant flowers, towering trees, and exotic foliage. Take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths, inhaling the fragrant scents and admiring the stunning botanical displays. The Botanical Garden is not only a place of natural beauty but also serves as a center for conservation and education, promoting the importance of preserving Mexico’s rich biodiversity.

Explore the Forts of Loreto and Guadalupe and Their Panoramic Views

For panoramic views of Puebla and its surrounding landscapes, a visit to the Forts of Loreto and Guadalupe is a possibility. These historic forts, perched atop hills, played a crucial role in Puebla’s defense during various conflicts. Today, they stand as testaments to the city’s military history and offer visitors a chance to delve into the past while enjoying breathtaking vistas. From the elevated vantage points, gaze out over the cityscape, admire the majestic mountains that encircle Puebla, and appreciate the strategic importance of these fortifications. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking inspiring views, the Forts of Loreto and Guadalupe are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Discover the Charm of Neighboring Towns: Cholula and Atlixco

While Puebla City is a joy in itself, venturing beyond its borders unveils a nearby world of charm. Just a short distance away, you’ll find the town of Cholula, known for its archaeological site and the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios. Climb the hill to reach the church and marvel at its striking architecture and the panoramic views it offers. Explore the ancient ruins of the Great Pyramid of Cholula , the largest pyramid in the world, and uncover the history of this great Mesoamerican civilization. Then take the time to explore the San Pedro neighborhood and its market before you head back to Puebla.

Another neighboring gem is Atlixco, a picturesque town renowned for its colorful flower fields and pleasant climate. Stroll through the charming streets, adorned with vibrant facades and adorned with traditional Mexican tiles. Visit the Parque Nacional El Tepozteco and take a hike to the Tepozteco Pyramid, offering not only a glimpse into the region’s history but also panoramic views of the landscape. The close proximity of these towns allows for delightful day trips from Puebla, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the region.

The Active Volcano, Popocatepetl

Photo by Alexander Schimmeck

Puebla’s natural wonders extend beyond its cultural and historical sites. The towering presence of Popocatepetl, an active volcano located in close proximity to the city, adds a touch of drama to the region’s landscape. While reaching the summit is reserved for experienced climbers, the sight of this majestic volcano is a captivating experience in itself. Its snow-capped peak rises proudly against the backdrop of blue skies. Most of the time visitors who get to see it on a clear day will notice harmless steam venting from the top. But Popocatepetl’s occasional eruptions serve as a reminder of the raw power of nature, leaving visitors with a sense of reverence for the forces that shape our planet.

Best Time to Visit and Additional Tips

When planning your visit to Puebla, it’s important to consider the best time of year to make the most of your experience. Puebla enjoys a temperate climate year-round, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, which typically extends from November to April, offers the most favorable weather for outdoor exploration. During this time, you can expect clear skies, moderate temperatures, and minimal rainfall, allowing you to fully enjoy Puebla’s outdoor attractions and architectural marvels. However, it’s worth noting that Puebla’s charming ambiance and cultural events make it a delightful destination throughout the year, so plan according to your preferences and interests. For example, we visited in July when the weather is a bit warmer. And while there are rain storms and thundershowers in the afternoon, they cool off the day and you still have the majority of the morning to explore.

Getting Around the City and Nearby Attractions

Navigating Puebla and its nearby attractions is relatively straightforward, thanks to its well-connected transportation network. And like Mexico City, Uber is available here. Exploring the city center is best done on foot, as many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Additionally, organized day trips are available to explore the surrounding areas, including Cholula and Atlixco, ensuring a hassle-free and enriching experience. We had the option to join a 13-hour tour of Cholula through our hotel and prices at the time were $200 per adult and $150 per child. We opted to connect with our local Uber driver who provided us with an hourly rate and that way we received a private tour experience at a comparable cost. For those of you who speak Spanish, or are comfortable trying out your learned phrases with your Uber driver, you may want to try this option.

Experiencing the Culture

One of the highlights of any visit to Puebla is indulging in its culinary delights and immersing yourself in its culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local specialties, such as the iconic Mole Poblano, a rich and flavorful sauce that showcases Puebla’s gastronomic prowess. Be sure to also try Chiles en Nogada, a seasonal delicacy that combines savory and sweet flavors in a unique dish. Puebla’s culinary offerings extend beyond these renowned dishes, so be adventurous and explore the local food scene, savoring the flavors of regional ingredients and traditional recipes. Additionally, take the time to engage with the local culture, attend cultural events, and embrace the warm hospitality of the people, as these experiences truly enrich your time in Puebla.

Take a Walking or Bus Tour to Learn More about the City’s History

To delve deeper into Puebla’s history and gain a comprehensive understanding of its cultural heritage, consider joining a free walking tour or a paid bus tour. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours offer fascinating insights into the city’s architectural treasures, historical landmarks, and captivating stories. They can sometimes be bilingual and often provide a great overview of key attractions such as the Cathedral de Puebla, the Biblioteca Palafoxiana, and the main square while providing valuable context and engaging narratives that bring Puebla’s past to life. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the city on a deeper level and uncover spots that may go unnoticed without expert guidance.

A visit to Puebla City, the capital city of the state of Puebla, offers a truly unforgettable experience. From its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site to its rich history and cultural significance, Puebla captures the essence of a truly remarkable destination. Throughout this article, we have highlighted what to do in Puebla, ensuring that your visit is filled with awe-inspiring sights, immersive cultural experiences, and delectable culinary delights.

As you bid farewell to Puebla, you take with you not only memories of its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and culinary delights but also a deeper appreciation for its place in Mexican history and Latin America. Puebla’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is well-deserved, as its colonial buildings, cultural treasures, and rich heritage make it a destination unlike any other. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, a foodie, or a nature enthusiast, Puebla offers an array of experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests.

As you explore the charming streets, delve into the city’s intriguing museums, and savor the flavors of its local cuisine, you will be immersed in the cultural tapestry that defines Puebla. From its remarkable historic center to its natural wonders, Puebla captivates with its architectural splendor, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you spend a few days or a week in this enchanting city, Puebla promises an extraordinary journey filled with unforgettable moments. So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and discover the magic of Puebla, the city that offers a true feast for the senses and a glimpse into the captivating soul of Mexico.

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Visit Puebla: Top 25 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in puebla: the 25 best places to visit.

If you’re looking for a great destination near Mexico City , you should visit Puebla de Zaragoza , the capital of the state of Puebla.

This charming colonial city is located at 7,005 ft above sea level and surrounded by majestic volcanoes like Popocatepetl , Iztaccihuatl and La Malinche . It’s famous for its colorful buildings, its traditional talavera pottery , and its rich history and culture.

Puebla has so much to offer that you’ll never run out of things to do!

To make sure you have the best experience possible, I’ve created this guide, with the 25 best places to visit in Puebla and its surroundings.

I’ve also included all the practical information you need to get to Puebla, a suggested itinerary for a day in Puebla , and my recommendations for restaurants and hotels for all budgets.

So, what are the best things to do in Puebla? Where to stay?

1. The Zócalo

2. the cathedral, 3. chapel of the virgen del rosario, 4. biblioteca palafoxiana, 5. amparo museum.

• 6. Barrio del Artista (Artist Quarter)

7. The gastronomy of Puebla

8. calle de los dulces (street of sweets), 9. museum of the revolution, 10. the talaveras, 11. tasting ancho reyes, 12. the parián handicrafts market, 13. callejon de los sapos, 14. explore the secret tunnels of puebla, 15. barrio de analco, 16. the forts of puebla, 17. street art in xanenetla, 18. take a free walking tour of puebla, 19. ride the tourist bus, 20. international museum of the baroque, 21. descend into the world’s smallest volcano, 22. cholula, 23. zacatlan and chignahuapan, 24. cuetzalan, 25. botanical cactus garden, 26. atlixco, where to stay in puebla, 7 best things to do in puebla with kids, what to do in puebla in 1 day, where to eat in puebla : 5 restaurants to try, how to get from mexico city to puebla, how to get from oaxaca to puebla, tourist map of puebla, do you want to rent a car in mexico, how to find the best airline ticket to mexico, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you.

One of the must-see places in Puebla is the zócalo, the heart of the historic center and a   World Heritage Site by UNESCO .

This is where Puebla’s history and culture come alive, as you can admire its impressive buildings (the cathedral, the municipal palace), and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the restaurants, shops and cafes that line the square. You’ll definitely want to visit the zócalo during your stay!

If you need tourist information about Puebla, such as maps, guides, etc., you can go to the Palacio Municipal (Portal Hidalgo 14), where you’ll find a helpful staff. Very handy.

You can’t miss the basilica cathedral , also known as Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Inmaculada Concepción , when you visit Puebla: it’s the second largest cathedral in Mexico !

This magnificent building was constructed from the 16th to the 17th centuries, with a stunning Renaissance-style façade and a lavish Baroque interior. It houses many artworks, such as paintings, sculptures, gold and silver work, three organs and exquisite woodwork.

I was especially captivated by the Altar de los Reyes , which is full of intricate details.

Good to Know There’s an amusing story you might hear about this cathedral.

It goes that the cathedral was originally intended for Mexico City , but due to a mix-up by the architects, it was built in Puebla instead.

While this tale adds a playful twist to its history, it remains an urban legend rather than a fact. 😉  

• Open Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm

If you think Puebla’s cathedral is amazing, wait until you see the Capilla del Rosario del Templo de Santo Domingo (1650-1690), which is even more spectacular!

This chapel is considered the finest example of Mexican Baroque and you’ll be dazzled by its beauty as soon as you enter: everything here is richly decorated from floor to ceiling, with intricate designs and covered with 24-karat gold leaf.

The walls are adorned with large paintings by Jose Rodriguez Carnero and talaveras typical of Puebla.

I’m a fan of churches, I’ve visited many in my life, but I’ve rarely seen one as ornate as this one. The only one that comes close is the  Church of La Compañía , in Quito, which has a stunning interior covered in gold.

• Address: 5 de Mayo esquina 4 Poniente #101, Puebla
• Tuesday to Thursday, from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm and from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm, Friday to Saturday, from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm and Sunday, from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm.
• Free admission

The Palafoxiana Library is a treasure for book lovers and history buffs alike. It’s the first public library on the American continent , and it has a collection of 43,000 volumes , ranging from the 15th to the 20th century , covering various topics such as history, philosophy, theology, and literature.

This library is located on the second floor of the Casa de Cultura de Puebla , in a beautiful vaulted room. It was founded in the 17th century by Bishop Juan de Palafox y Mendoza , who donated his personal library of 5,000 volumes to the schools of San Pedro and San Juan.

He also made a very progressive decision for that time: he allowed anyone who could read to access his books. 😍

The library became a museum in 1981, and today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Puebla .

• Address: 5 Oriente 5, corner with 16 de Septiembre, Puebla
• Open Tue-Thurs 10am to 5pm, Fri-Sun 10am to 6pm. Admission 45 pesos
• Facebook Page

The Amparo Museum is one of the places you can’t miss in Puebla. It’s located in a historic palace and hospital from the colonial era, and it has a huge collection of Mexican art : 7 rooms dedicated to the pre-Hispanic era, 3 rooms showcasing the colonial era and the nineteenth century, and exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.

There are also temporary exhibitions of national and international artists.

I highly recommend downloading the free Amparo Plus app ( Android , iOS ) which gives you information about the exhibitions (audio, video, etc.).

You can also go up to the terrace where there is a cafeteria with a nice view , perfect for taking photos of the historic center.

You can have breakfast here (Wednesday to Monday from 9am to 12:30pm) or have a drink in the evening (Friday to Saturday until 10pm). There are even concerts sometimes.

• Address: Avenida 2 Sur 708, Downtown, Puebla
• Open every day from 10am to 6pm, except Tuesdays when it is closed
• Admission 85 pesos

6. Barrio del Artista  (Artist Quarter)

Barrio del Artista is a must-visit in Puebla, where art comes alive right on the streets.

Here, you can casually stroll among local artists at work , each piece a unique reflection of the city’s vibrant spirit. It’s also the perfect spot for a relaxing coffee break, either on the quaint plaza or a terrace, as you soak in the artistic atmosphere.

Puebla is famous for its delicious cuisine , which is recognized throughout Mexico. It is the home of the famous mole poblano , a sauce made with different chiles and spices, which is usually served with chicken.

Another iconic dish is the chile en nogada , a chile stuffed with meat and fruit, covered with a nut sauce and pomegranate seeds. The colors are reminiscent of the Mexican flag -green, white and red- and that’s why it is widely offered by restaurants in September, the month of independence .

And, of course, street food in Puebla also has some tasty surprises: cemitas, tacos árabes, chalupas.

Personally, I really like the cemitas poblanas , which are sandwiches with avocado, cheese, onion, meat, papalo , red sauce, all served on a bread with sesame seeds.

If you want to enjoy the best of Puebla’s cuisine, I recommend you take this food tour in Puebla: 

Puebla is not only a feast for the eyes, but also for the taste buds. You have to try its famous sweets , which have been made since colonial times.

Puebla’s sweets are so important that they even have their own street: Calle 6 Oriente, also known as Calle de los Dulces (or Calle del Dulce) in the historic center.

There is a lot to choose from, but the most famous sweets in Puebla are sweet potatoes, macaroons, muégano, jamoncillo, borrachitos, cocadas, coconut-filled lemons, alegrías and tortas de Santa Clara, my favorite.

They are cookies created in colonial times by the nuns of the Santa Clara convent . They are made with flour, butter, sugar and egg yolk, and they have a delicious almond flavor.

If you want to taste these and other traditional sweets in Puebla, you can go to La Gran Fama , the first confectionery that opened in the 19th century, and to Dulcería Santa Clara , another Puebla institution, open since 1907.

They are a perfect souvenir to take home or to enjoy on the spot. 😋

This is the home of the 4 Serdán siblings (Carmen, Natalia, Aquiles and Máximo) who joined the revolutionary movement led by Francisco Madero against Porfirio Díaz in 1910.

The place is considered the cradle of the Mexican Revolution and the facade still has many bullet holes.

There are 26 rooms on 2 floors where you can learn about the family’s daily life and different aspects of the revolution (documents, photographs, weapons, objects)

• Address: Av 6 Ote 206, Downtown, Puebla
• Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 am to 5 pm; Fridays and Sundays from 10 am to 6 pm
• Admission 40 pesos or 20 pesos for children under 12 years old

Talavera is a type of pottery that has made Puebla famous since the 17th century.

The products are mainly plates, vases, pitchers and figurines, but you can also see Puebla talavera on the walls and facades of buildings (like the famous Casa de los Azulejos in Mexico City ).

A great place to admire the beauty of talaveras in Puebla is the Casa de los Muñecos (2 Norte #4, Puebla (Zocalo).

This building has a stunning façade decorated with 16 images made of talaveras. They depict different scenes from mythology, history, and literature. They also have a hidden meaning: they represent the 16 councilmen who opposed the construction of the building because the owner wanted it to be taller than the city hall.

You can also visit the church of San Francisco (Address: 14 Oriente corner Blvd. 5 de Mayo, Puebla) which is the oldest convent in Puebla, and has a facade with talaveras. It’s stunning!

You can also discover the manufacturing process -which takes an average of 3 months and can take up to 6 months- in some workshops that offer guided tours.

I recommend, for example, Casa Uriarte (4 Poniente #911, Puebla), the oldest workshop in the city, which has been operating since 1824.

It’s a unique drink, with a sweet and spicy taste, a smoky aroma and 40% alcohol. I like to drink it in a cocktail with ice, but you can also enjoy it neat or mixed with other drinks.

Ancho Reyes is inspired by a traditional liquor that was popular among artists and intellectuals in Puebla in the 1920s. It’s a tribute to that creative and rebellious spirit.

If you want to try Ancho Reyes, you can find it in many bars and liquor stores in Puebla. You can also visit the distillery located in downtown Puebla , where you can learn more about the history and production of this liqueur

• Address: Av 12 Pte 912B, San Pablo de los Frailes, Puebla
• Free visit (1h30), Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. You need to make an Online reservation.

If you’re looking for a place to buy some souvenirs in Puebla , you should check out the Parián Market .

It’s the best place in Puebla to buy talaveras (and other crafts), as there are many shops selling all kinds of traditional crafts, such as talaveras, leather, textiles, jewelry, sweets, ceramics, wooden objects, etc.

The Parián is considered the first craft market in Puebla , as it started in 1760.

• Address: Calle 6 Norte #205, Puebla
• Open every day from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm

My tip If you’re near the Parián, you should also visit the Casa de Alfeñique (Av 4 Oriente 416, 46 pesos the entrance, from 10h to 17h – closed on Mondays).

It’s a beautiful 18th century colonial house that became a museum in 1926 (the first museum in Puebla !). It’s a great example of the Alfeño style, named after the typical sugar and egg white candy of the same name.    

The Callejon de los Sapos (street of the toads) has a curious name that comes from a flood: they say that in colonial times, the San Francisco River used to overflow often, causing floods.

Some people decided to take advantage of the situation by installing windmills , which attracted many toads because of the stagnant water.

Today, it is a colorful pedestrian street with restaurants, cafes, antique shops, bars and stores.

My tip  If you like nightlife, you’ll enjoy the Callejon de los Sapos on Friday and Saturday nights ; you can have a drink and listen to music at one of the many bars and pubs that line the street.

But, the best day to visit the Callejon de los Sapos is Sunday, when there is a big market (10 am-6pm) with antiques, handicrafts and all kinds of objects.

One of the most unique and fascinating activities in Puebla is exploring the underground tunnels that were discovered in 2014.

These tunnels are part of a network that was built between the 17th and 19th centuries , and that connected different strategic buildings and churches in Puebla. They have a mysterious history, as they were used for various purposes, such as hiding treasures, escaping enemies, or storing weapons and ammunition.

You can enter the tunnels through the Puente de Ovando , then walk through the Puente de Bubas , which is another bridge that was used as a leper hospital in colonial times. You can also visit some rooms that display historical artifacts and information about the tunnels.

You’ll end your tour with the Pasaje Histórico 5 de Mayo , which is a 16 ft deep passage that commemorates the Battle of Puebla in 1862, when the Mexican army defeated the French invaders.

The part of the tunnels that is open to the public is called “ The Secrets of Puebla ”, but it is estimated that the whole network extends for 6 miles!

• Admission 30 pesos
• Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm
• Address: Blvrd Héroes del 5 de Mayo 8, Barrio de La Luz, Puebla

Founded in 1560, Barrio de Analco is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Puebla. Its name means “on the other side of the river”.

Today it is best known for its market that you can explore on Saturdays and Sundays, and where you will find mainly handicrafts (wood, silver, etc.), but also clothing, furniture and even several food stalls.

The “ Cinco de Mayo ” holiday honors the Battle of Puebla , which happened on May 5, 1862.

The Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza , beat the French army, who wanted to take over Mexico. The Mexican soldiers were fewer than the French soldiers, but they fought hard and won.

The Fort of Loreto (which houses a museum open Tuesday through Friday, 70 pesos) and the Fort of Guadalupe are symbols of this important battle and allow you to learn more about this part of history.

Also in the same park you can take the Puebla cable car at 58 meters high to see the city. Ticket 57 pesos round trip.

The Xanenetla neighborhood is a place where you can see the power of art and community . It used to be a neglected area, but now it is a safe and attractive zone, with a network of narrow streets filled with colorful murals.

The murals are the work of Colectivo Tomate , a group of artists who have beautified several cities in Mexico. They always involve the local residents in the creation of the murals, and they reflect the cultural elements of each place.

• I was amazed by the murals of Colectivo Tomate in La Paz ( Baja California Sur) , where they painted whales, sea turtles, and other marine animals. Here, in Puebla , they painted roosters, virgins, flowers, and other symbols of Puebla’s identity.

If you want to visit Puebla on a budget , you should take a free tour of Puebla with Estación México. You’ll be able to see its main attractions and learn about its history and culture, without spending a lot of money. You’ll visit the Cathedral, the Chapel of the Rosary, the Palafoxiana Library, the Barrio del artista, the Calle del dulce, the Church of San Francisco, and more.

You just need to give a tip at the end , as a sign of appreciation.

I have taken several tours with them, and I can tell you that they are very informative and entertaining. They also offer different tours for different interests, such as gastronomy, art, or nightlife.

• The tour leaves every day at 11:00 am from the Zócalo –  Book the free tour here

Taking the double-decker bus is a great option if you have limited time in Puebla .

You’ll be able to see the main attractions in 55 minutes: the cathedral, the municipal palace, the library, Los Sapos and Analco markets, the Palacio de Congreso, the forts, the theater and the Calle de los Dulces.

It’s also a good way to start your tour of the city (departure at 10 am) and see what you want to explore more. Plus, it’s very affordable!

You can book your tickets here:

This is the perfect museum for a city with so many examples of Latin American Baroque.

Its amazing structure was designed by Japanese architect Toyō Itō and it has several temporary exhibition halls, as well as 7 permanent halls that explore different baroque themes (architecture, painting, theater, music, clothing, etc.).

This museum is very interactive, with many touch screens and video mapping. It is quite large, so you might need 2 hours to see everything.

• Address: Atlixcayotl Territorial Reserve, 2501, Puebla
• Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 7pm
• Price: 80 pesos

Cuexcomate , the world’s smallest volcano , is only a 15-minute drive from the Zócalo.

But don’t be fooled by its name: it’s actually a geyser that formed after Popocatepetl erupted in 1064. It’s now inactive, but still impressive: it’s 43ft high, 75ft in diameter and 55ft deep.

You can see this unique sight in the middle of the city, and even go inside the crater with stairs!

• Address: 2 Poniente and Ayuntamiento, Colonia La Libertad, Puebla
• Admission: 14 pesos
• Open from Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm

Around Puebla

Cholula is a charming “pueblo mágico” (magical town) on the outskirts of Puebla, split into San Pedro Cholula and San Andres Cholula . It was once a sacred site for the Toltecs , who built the largest ceremonial center in the region around 500 BC.

In Cholula, you can visit:

– The Great Pyramid of Cholula : this is the world’s largest pyramid by base (over 1300 ft on each side!) and volume (4,500,000 m³). It has 5 miles of tunnels that reveal its different stages of construction and its murals.

– The Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios: this is the church that stands on top of the pyramid, built in the 16th century and remodeled in the 19th century.

– The site museum : this is where you can learn about the history and culture of Cholula since pre-Hispanic times, through an exhibition with ceramics, models, paintings, artifacts, etc.

• How to visit Cholula from Puebla : 20-30 minutes by car, cab (from Terminal CAPU or Terminal 4 Poniente) or bus (from Terminal 6 Poniente)
• How to visit Cholula from Mexico City : you can join a tour that includes Puebla and Cholula. Book the tour here :

You can enjoy the beauty of the Sierra de Puebla by visiting these two towns, which are only 2h15 away from Puebla.

I suggest stopping on the way at the Salto de Quetzalapan waterfall , one of the highest waterfalls in the state of Puebla (330 ft).

A little further on is the Cascadas Tulimán Recreational Center , which has 3 areas with different activities: hiking trails along the two rivers, waterfalls, local food, hanging bridge, natural hot water pools, zip line.

You can also see the Barranca de los Jilgueros , a 440 yards deep ravine from its glassed-in viewpoint. Green and misty due to its tropical climate, it offers a beautiful natural spectacle.

In Zacatlan you can learn about the process of making local fruit wines, cider and taste its famous traditional cheese bread.

There is also the Clock Museum , the wine museum and the old Franciscan convent.

Chignahuapan is known for its handmade Christmas spheres , which are a great souvenir to buy.

Another attraction is the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception , which has a 40 ft high Virgin statue and a colorful Moorish style kiosk in its main square.

Its name means “the place where the quetzals are abundant”.

Quetzals are colorful birds that were sacred to the ancient Maya and Aztec civilizations. They have long green tail feathers and red chests. Maybe that’s why the typical clothing of the local women is one of the most beautiful in Mexico. 🙂

What to see in Cuetzalan:

-The Parish of San Francisco de Asis , built in the 17th century, which is the symbol of the town

-The Church of the Jarritos or Sanctuary of Guadalupe, a neo-Gothic building decorated with clay pots, whose construction was inspired by those found in Lourdes in France

-The archaeological site of Yohualichan: it was inhabited by several cultures, among them the Totonacs , who later built El Tajin ( State of Veracruz ) on the same model and became one of the most important cities in Mesoamerica. Admission 70 pesos, open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm

-Its numerous waterfalls (there are about 30!): there are several activities to do such as rappelling or zip-lining at Cascada El Salto , hiking to the magnificent Cascada de Las Golondrinas (Swallow waterfall)

-Poza Pata de Perro : you can swim in this rock formation with natural pools full of water

-The local market: held on Sunday mornings in the Plaza de Cuetzalan. The Nahua people, mainly women, sell all kinds of products (fruits, vegetables, etc.). Look closely and you will notice that the locals use barter among themselves.

How to get to Cuetzalan

• By bus there are several departures from Mexico City per day (6h trip with ADO or AU – leaving from TAPO ), and every hour from Puebla (3h trip with VIA)

The Helia Bravo Hollis Botanical Garden is a natural wonder in the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve , 2 hours away from Puebla. It is named after a Mexican botanist who devoted her life to studying cacti.

This garden is home to more than 100 species of cacti , some of them rare and endangered. Some are as tall as 33 ft and as old as 200 years! You can learn about their medicinal and nutritional uses, and how they were valued in ancient times.

You can also admire the birds that live in this area, such as eagles that soar in the sky looking for their prey. You can watch them from the bird watching towers in the garden.

Atlixco is a town at the foot of the Popocateptl volcano , known for its mild climate and its large flower production. That’s why it’s also called “ Atlixco de las Flores ”!

You can enjoy the beauty and color of this town as you stroll through its streets, markets, craft stores and restaurants with terraces. You can also admire the view of the volcano from different spots in the town.

In the main square you can see the Ex-Convento del Carmen , which dates back to the 16th century.

Along with the convents of San Francisco and Santa Clara, they are the three most important religious buildings in Atlixco, but my favorite is the Church of La Merced with its stunning baroque facade.

There are hotels for all budgets in Puebla, but it pays to book in advance , as its proximity to Mexico City makes it a major tourist destination on weekends and holidays.

Hotels that offer good value for money fill up very quickly.

• Hotel Santiago : the ideal hotel for a cheap stay in Puebla , practically on the corner of the Zocalo, with a rooftop terrace offering a beautiful view of the cathedral . Rooms are only 30 $usd per night!
• NH Puebla Centro Historico : a hotel in the historic center of Puebla,  with a rooftop terrace that has a swimming pool , a gym, available parking, good wifi and a buffet with breakfast included , starting at 48 $usd per night!
• Hotel Boutique Casareyna : a 16th century mansion next to the Bubas Bridge, converted into a luxury hotel that offers spacious rooms, a rooftop pool and jacuzzi , a gym and spa, parking and a hearty breakfast. Rooms with parking and breakfast start at 105 $usd per night!
• Banyan Tree Puebla : this is my favorite hotel in Puebla , the perfect choice for a romantic stay or to enjoy real luxurious comfort in the heart of the city. There’s a terrace garden, a rooftop , a pool and spa overlooking the volcanoes, a restaurant with a terrace, and a good breakfast. For 226 $usd per night.

To see all hotels in Puebla you can also click on the green button:

There are also many things to do in Puebla with your family , here are some suggestions:

1. Museum of Viennese Music : it is a replica of the Vienna House of Music (Haus der Musik) with 16 rooms dedicated to music, sound, great international and Mexican composers, 2 rooms with interactive games. Don’t miss the Virto Stage, where you can “conduct” a virtual orchestra. – Temporarily closed

2. Africam Safari:  a fun and educational activity for kids in Puebla . You can see 350 different species of animals living in (semi) freedom and drive along paths, without disturbing them. You can also explore a botanical garden and an insectarium on foot, where you can learn about plants and insects. –  Buy your tickets here!

3. ArboTerra : it is an interactive conservation project with about 50 different species, mainly birds. There is also a tree house. The visit takes about 1 hour. This is a great place to visit with the family in Puebla , as there is also a themed restaurant on site. Website , open Wednesday to Monday from 10am to 5pm

4. Tactical Rescue : This is a laser tag game where you can choose to be an elephant protector or a poacher. The goal is to either save the elephants or capture them for their tusks. It’s just a game, but it feels very realistic. Website , open Monday to Friday from 1pm to 9pm, Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 9pm

5. Estrella de Puebla : with its 260 ft it is the biggest Ferris wheel in Latin America . When the sky is clear you can even see the volcanoes Popocateptl, Iztaccihuatl, Pico de Orizaba and La Malinche. Admission 40 pesos, open from 4 p.m. – Temporarily closed

6. Museum of Evolution : a museum that explores science, technology and ecology. You can learn about the universe, dinosaurs and human evolution in different thematic rooms. Admission 45 pesos for adults and 23 pesos for children under 12 years old, open Tuesday to Thursday from 10 am to 5 pm, Friday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm

7. Planetarium : right next to the museum of evolution, with interactive games, and an OMNIMAX dome that shows projections from Tuesday to Sunday at 12pm, 2pm, 4pm and 6pm. Facebook page

How much time to visit Puebla?

If you want to see the best of Puebla , you should spend one or two days in the city , but you will need more time to discover the other attractions of the state.

Here is my suggested itinerary to see as much as possible in 1 day in Puebla .

You can easily visit Puebla in one day , at least its historic center, since the main tourist attractions are within walking distance.

• In the morning, start at the Zocalo and the cathedral
• Continue to the Biblioteca Palafoxiana
• Continue to the Amparo Museum . You should also go up to the terrace to enjoy the views. And why not have a coffee while you’re there?
• Discover the Callejón de los Sapos
• To buy a souvenir, go to the Mercado del Parián
• Stroll through the Barrio del Artista
• Buy some typical Puebla sweets on the Calle de los Dulces
• Finish at the magnificent Capilla del Rosario 

My Advice Check out my article for the perfect one-day itinerary in Puebla (click here!) with all the top sights and activities!

Mercado de Sabores : this is the best place to eat on a budget in Puebla . You can try the cemitas, those huge sandwiches I mentioned before, there are several places, but I recommend Super Cemitas Alex!

Los Globos : located right next to the zocalo, this is a good cheap restaurant in Puebla where you can try some typical dishes (like mole poblano). Calle 2 Sur 509, Puebla.

Clementina cocina Poblana : my favorite place in Puebla ! It is a small local restaurant run by very friendly young people, with very good quality and affordable prices. I went with my family and we all loved the different dishes. Personally, I ordered the enchiladas tres moles (159 pesos) and LOVED it!

Augurio : a good restaurant in Puebla, to try to discover the regional cuisine if you have a little more budget. It is best known for its moles and won the 2017 Gourmet Award for best new restaurant in the state. Calle 9 Oriente 16, Puebla.

El Mural de los Poblanos : it isn’t just Puebla’s most famous restaurant; it’s a celebration of the city’s history and cuisine.

Named for Antonio Álvarez Morán’s artwork depicting key historical figures, it’s where I first fell in love with authentic Pueblan food.

Definitely try their ‘degustación’ de moles – it’s a fantastic way to experience the variety of Puebla’s famous sauces, including mole poblano, pipian verde, pipian rojo, adobo, and manchamanteles. And for someone who enjoys mezcal, their selection was just perfect!

How to get to Puebla

The trip from Mexico City to Puebla takes 2h30.

There are several bus companies to Puebla but I recommend ADO , as it is safe, comfortable and reliable in terms of schedules.

There are departures every 20-30 minutes, so it is not necessary to book in advance (but it is a good idea on holidays and weekends), and the price varies depending on the departure time (ticket between 180-220 pesos each way).

There are several bus terminals in Mexico City , but I recommend leaving from TAPO in the center because it is better located to avoid traffic to Puebla.

You will arrive at the CAPU bus station in Puebla which is 20 minutes from downtown.

Here is how to get from the terminal to the Zocalo in Puebla :

• By official cab: there are counters inside to request the service, about 100 pesos. The uber costs a few pesos less.
• By bus: in front of the station you have to take bus 44 (white and yellow) or the one that goes from Boulevard – CU – Xilotzingo (cream and blue), ticket 6 pesos

It takes 2 hours (140 km) to drive from Mexico City to Puebla .

• From the historic center: take Calzada Ignacio Zaragoza which becomes Highway 150 Mexico-Puebla
• From the south: the easiest way is to take the Periferico to the highway

There are two tolls:

• Between Mexico City and San Martin Texmelucan (140 pesos)
• Between San Martin Texmelucan and Puebla (44 pesos)

To know the tolls, it is best to visit the Traza tu Ruta website

3. By plane

I don’t think it is the best option for such a short trip, but Volaris and Aeromexico offer a few flights a week.

There are no direct flights, there is always a stopover (Monterrey, Tijuana, Cancun ). Sometimes there are even two stops, so be careful when comparing prices.

The shortest trip I found was 4 hours, so arriving by plane is longer than the bus .

Hermanos Serdan International Airport is 15 miles from downtown Puebla. A cab should costs between 330 and 400 pesos

The trip from Oaxaca City to Puebla takes 5 hours.

Several departures with ADO and AU. Prices vary a lot (between 427 pesos and 676 pesos) depending on the time of day and the length of the trip, as some trips are direct and others are not.

To get from Oaxaca to Puebla by car, it takes 4 hours and 15 minutes.

From Oaxaca, take highway 135D to Mexico City, then follow the signs to Puebla/Mexico City to take highway 150D (Orizaba – Puebla/Córdoba – Puebla/Mexico City)

There are five toll booths on the highway:

• Huitzo: 93 pesos
• Suchixtlahuaca: 80 pesos
• Miahuatlan: 33 pesos
• Tehuacan: 46 pesos
• Amozoc: 75 pesos

For updated rates, don’t forget to check the Traza tu Ruta website

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Puebla and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

To find your cheap flight to Mexico I recommend you to use our flight comparator in partnership with Skyscanner, it’s the guarantee to pay the best price for domestic and international flights !

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
• Mexico City: The 31 Best things to Discover
• Oaxaca : Top 20 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions !
• Itinerary : 8-10 days in Mexico   – From Mexico City to Oaxaca
• Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico   – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche , Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
• Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

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Puebla Travel Guide: Authentic Masterpiece of a City in Mexico

Hello! I’m Daniel Chazari – a passionate photographer and traveler from Mexico. I grew up in Puebla, a city two hours from Mexico City. My love of travel started when I was a child. I used to travel with my family to the beautiful beaches of Veracruz and Acapulco and absolutely loved it.

My older brother taught me how to use his analog camera and 10 years later my parents bought me my first camera. The rest, as they say, was history. I have been backpacking, traveling and photographing ever since.

Why Visit Puebla in Mexico

Puebla is an amazing place. Mexico (in general) has landscapes full of color, a lot of history and its people are very kind and generous. Puebla is a region with so much history. We have the most beautiful cathedral in Mexico.

The historic center of Puebla is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Talavara is a big tradition in the city. The Talvara decorative style is from Spain but evolved in Puebla over the years due to the city’s love of ceramics and clay work. This makes Puebla a fantastic place for shopping.

Near Puebla you can find the city of Cholula which is home to The Great Pyramid of Cholula (Tlachihualtepetl) in the Zona Arqueologica de Cholula. This complex is the largest archaeological site of a pyramid in the world!

Looking over the region is “the guardian” – Popocatepetl Volcano. To photograph and explore Puebla is to find yourself immersed in a diversity of landscapes and sites that include the most stunning cathedral and Popocatepetl. These are just a few of the reasons to visit my hometown.

10 Best Things To Do in Puebla

I love the entire historic center of Puebla but my favorite place would have to be the Artist Quarter. It’s a place where (before the pandemic) all Puebla artists gathered to exhibit and sell their art. There are cafes everywhere and it has a bohemian atmosphere. I call it a kind of “Mexican Montmartre”.

As well as visiting the historic center and the Artist Quarter, visitors should discover the range of stunning cathedrals, get lost down the charming streets, find the best local snacks and foods, and watch a beautiful sunset over the city. Trust me, you will never get bored here! So without further ado, below are my top 10 recommendations for things to do in Puebla.

1. Photograph the Incredible Catedral de Puebla

This stunning cathedral is the centrepiece of the city and is often lit up in lights at night making it a photographer’s dream. While the exteriors are impressive, the interiors are even more dazzling as visitors can take in elaborately decorated fresco paintings. A must-visit in Puebla for sure!

2. Watch the Sunset at Mirador de Los Fuertes

A wonderful place to go with friends or your romantic partner to watch the sun drop majestically over the city. Expect colors of orange, red and pink to encapsulate the sky as the city lights up in preparation for night time. There are a couple of seats you can utilise to be more comfortable.

3. Tour the Historic Palafoxiana Library

Palafoxiana Library is recognized by UNESCO as being the first and oldest library in the Americas. It was founded way back in 1646 and is home to endless books, manuscripts, historical records and some pretty impressive architecture too. Visiting the library is a real treat for history-lovers.

4. Walk through the Callejon de los Sapos

Walking down Callejon de los Sapos is always a fun and relaxing way to spend an afternoon. Visit on Friday and Saturday nights for live music and a festive atmosphere at the cafes and bars. On Sunday starting from 10am you will find a vibrant street market with antiques and handicrafts.

5. Enjoy a Coffee at the Artist Quarter

The Artist Quarter is my favorite place in Puebla with its narrow alleys, artist zone, market stalls and trendy cafes. Just wandering the streets is a good time but make sure you pop into a cafe as well to enjoy a coffee and take in the atmosphere. Trust me – you will fall in love with this area!

6. Eat Mexican Snacks at Parian Market

For the best Mexican snacks in Puebla head to Parian Market where you will find food with the true Mexican essence. The snacks in restaurants won’t compare in terms of authenticity. Parian Market is one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city with great food and fantastic Talavera.

7. Visit Rosary Chapel – “Eighth Wonder of the World”

Entering this 17th-century golden chapel will leave you awestruck and not surprised at all how it gained the reputation of being the “eighth wonder of the world”. The chapel is located inside the Church of Santo Domingo. Many claim it to be the best example of New Spanish Baroque style.

8. Try a Traditional Cemita from Puebla

Cemitas originate from Puebla and while you can find versions of the sandwich in other parts of the world this is where you will find the real Cemita! These sandwiches are sold by street vendors who dedicate themselves to the preparation of the sandwich. A great option for lunch!

9. Sing with the Mariachis of the El Alto Market

Mercado el Alto is one of the oldest markets in Puebla and is a wonderful place to explore in the evenings. One of the highlights here is listening to the local mariachis play music which adds so much vibrancy to the market. Even better, pay the mariachi bands to serenade you or your loved one!

10. Take in the Views on the Estrella de Puebla

For something completely different, hop on the Estrella de Puebla and take in panoramic views of the city. You will be able to see a number of the city’s landmarks from the observation wheel including the volcano, cathedral and city sprawl. This is a fun activity which the whole family can enjoy.

Bonus Experience: Have a Few Drinks at La Pasita

The people of Puebla are conservative and religious but they are friendly. The best way to get to know the locals is to chat with them. Many of the artisans and tourist workers speak English and can tell you stories about this city. If you want a real Puebla experience then visit La Pasita – a Mexican cantina where you will find the essence of a cantina from the 40s.

Phenomenal Gastronomy of Puebla

Puebla has one of the best gastronomies in Mexico. Some of the best local dishes have been mentioned in this article already (for example Cemitas) but there is plenty more authentic cuisine to try including:

Tacos Arabes and Tacos al Pastor (originally from Puebla, you can try them in other places throughout Mexico but they don’t have the same taste), and Chiles en Nogada which is chiles stuffed with picadillo topped with a walnut-based cream sauce called nogada. The latter isn’t spicy but tastes sweet and is only eaten seasonally, in August/September to be precise.

Mole Poblano is another quintessential Mexican food found in Puebla. You can even visit the convent where the nuns invented it. I recommend eating these foods in markets or stalls like Parian Market. In restaurants, these dishes become gentrified and lose that authentic flavor. However, if your stomach is sensitive then you can always eat at restaurants.

Best Places to Stay in Puebla

I highly recommend staying at Azul Talavera Hotel and Cartesiano Hotel , although they are both expensive. Another option may be the Leones Hotel which has a direct view of the cathedral. If you want something historical then the Colonial Hotel is a great option too. Many historical Mexican figures have stayed at this hotel throughout the years.

Need to Know Before you Go

Before you visit Puebla there are a couple of key things to remember in order to enhance your experience. First of all, only eat at local restaurants. As mentioned before, the touristy restaurants serve food that is not authentic. For the most authentic food head to the markets and stalls.

I also suggest heading to the attractions early so you don’t encounter large crowds. But when you do go exploring be careful! Although I wish it wasn’t so, Puebla can be a dangerous city. Don’t venture out of the historic center or wander into places with no one else around unless you are accompanied by a local. Write to me before you come. I will gladly show you around 🙂

In conclusion, I love Puebla and believe you will too. I have had many amazing experiences here including photography missions for sunrise and sunset, and partying in Cholula where I was walking around with friends in a place that was buzzing at 3am. I cherish these memories and hope the city recovers from the pandemic and things return to normal soon.

BY DANIEL CHAZARI IG: @DANNYCHAZARI

Author:  Daniel Chazari

Daniel Chazari is a Graphic Designer and Photographer who grew up in Puebla, Mexico. He has been backpacking, traveling and photographing for many years now.

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Is Puebla Worth Visiting? Your 2024 Insider’s Guide

Is Puebla worth visiting? If you are considering paying a visit to the west-central Mexican state of Puebla and its capital city Puebla de Zaragoza, you might question whether it is worth your time or energy at all.  

After all, it is far from the most common travel destination in the country and unlike places like Cancun, Tulum, and Puerto Vallarta, a lot of people haven’t even heard of the area nor know anyone who has visited unless they have traveled extensively across Mexico. 

Visitors love Puebla for its colonial architecture, rich food, world-famous art, and friendly community vibe. Aside from its architecture, food, and culture, lies a rich history that’s at the heart of Mexico itself.

It absolutely is worth a visit if your Mexico itinerary allows, and in this article written by an expat Travel Writer based in Mexico, we will discuss the reasons as to why. 

Read on below to learn more about this incredible destination so you can decide for yourself whether Puebla is worth visiting.

Table of Contents

All About Puebla, Mexico

Puebla is one of Mexico’s most vibrant destinations, with modern highrises sharing the skyline with 16th-century cathedrals. It’s also one of the safest cities in Mexico, with a secure tourism infrastructure. 

The city was founded in 1531 as Ciudad de los Ángeles by the Spanish. Unlike many other cities in Mexico, including nearby Cholula, it likely didn’t have an indigenous population living there. 

The Europeans built a grid-like city with Spanish-style squares and cobblestone roads. From the 16th and 17th centuries, the city grew into one of Mexico’s largest and most influential cities. 

Puebla is located in the middle of the Valley of Cuetlaxcoapan, a region famous for its flavorful produce and pleasant highland climate that’s not too warm and not too cold. Towering above the city is the massive Popocatepetl volcano and its surrounding mountains that offer some of the best natural scenery in the country. 

On top of the natural scenery, the city is full of things to see and do, from sports matches to cultural events. There’s always something going on in Puebla and whether you’re visiting for a day or even two weeks, your schedule will be filled up with fun and rich cultural activities. 

Is Puebla Worth Visiting in 2024? 

We are completely in love with Puebla as a culturally rich Mexico travel destination and we believe that in the next few years, it will really start to grow in popularity as a tourism destination. Puebla is one of the best day trips from Mexico City that you can take, and it is a good contender as a weekend/week-long travel destination in itself whether you are traveling from the US, Canada, or further afield. 

For the time being, Puebla continues to fly largely under the radar, and while you could argue that it doesn’t get the attention and recognition it deserves, this means that for now, it retains its authentic Mexican culture and atmosphere, and has not been gentrified or changed in any way to cater to international tourists. From here, we will look at some of the reasons why Puebla is absolutely worth adding to your Mexico travel radar. 

Poblano Cuisine is delicious and unparalleled 

Puebla is world famous for its diverse Poblano cuisine that continues to be among Mexico’s most celebrated. It’s also home to world-renowned chefs, excellent restaurants, and street food that’s considered some of the best in the country. 

The city is also home to two dishes that compete for being the national dishes of Mexico: Mole Poblano and Chiles en Nogada. 

Most famous local dishes in Puebla

Arguably the most famous Poblano dish is the beloved Mole Poblano , a thick stew of cacao, chilis, onions, and spices served with chicken and fresh corn tortillas. Its origins are hazy at best, but many people claim a nun created the dish in the Santa Rosa covenant to impress the visiting Archbishop of Puebla in the 17th century. 

Regardless of its origins, you have to try it if you’re in Puebla. It is one of the key foods you must try in Mexico. 

Another amazing Poblano dish is Chiles en Nogada . This seasonal dish is made up of a deep-fried or grilled green poblano chili that’s carefully stuffed with meat and spices and covered in a thick and savory walnut sauce. 

As a final touch, many chefs and home cooks sprinkle cilantro and pomegranate seeds over the dish. The dish was created in the 19th century to honor Mexico’s independence from Spain. Its white sauce, red pomegranate seeds, and green chili are made to look like the Mexican flag. 

Street food in Puebla

Street food is another fantastic reason to visit Puebla. At any festival, celebration, or just about any park and street corner in the city, you’ll find something mouth-watering and convenient. 

Dishes like cemitas, tacos arabes, Chalupas Poblanas, crispy thick tortillas topped with savory beans with meat or chapulines (fried grasshoppers) and covered in rich salsa verde or rojo, are a specialty worth trying. 

And for anyone with a sweet tooth, Puebla’s desserts and candies are a major draw. To try as many types of sweets as you can handle, head down to the Calle de Ducles (Avenue of Sweets). 

Here, you can grab some chocolate, some Jamoncillo de Pepita, Dulce de Leche con Nuez, and the most famous Poblano candy, camotes. These rolled-up sweet potato cakes are so popular and tasty that it’s hard not to eat a whole box of them. 

Puebla’s street art and handcrafts scene is charming 

From murals to artisanal markets, Puebla’s streets are filled with colorful and handmade art. The city’s rich artistic traditions go back centuries. Today, you can easily find some of the most expressive pieces in Mexico, in places like Barrio del Artista.  

The most famous style of art in the city is Talavera Poblana . These handmade ceramics consist of clay and thin colorful enamel. You can find all sorts of Talavera, including tiles (azulejos), talavera pottery, and more around the city. 

Make a visit to El Patio de los azulejos, a colonial-style building covered in Talavera tiles that’s now a popular museum. 

When you’re in Puebla, walk through town and you’ll see plenty of murals covering the walls of buildings. Street art has become synonymous with the city. 

From giant murals to small independent designs, you can spend an entire week viewing them. A lot of the street art pieces here are politically motivated and raise awareness of important issues affecting Mexican society. 

For example, the concerning issue of women’s rights and femicide in Mexico, or the importance of protecting the rights and cultures of the various indigenous groups that call the country home. 

Puebla is filled with fun cervecerías and pulquerías

During the day, Puebla is a quiet place where you can easily spend your time strolling around town and relaxing in parks. At night, however, be prepared to experience some of the best nightlife in Mexico. 

As both a tourist city and a college city, Puebla is full of incredible bars and late-night hangouts. 

Puebla is famous for its craft beer and cervecerias. You can hop around the city and try dozens of popular breweries and bars that specialize in beer. 

On the weekends, you can catch live music and have plenty of fun. 

If you want to sample more traditional beverages, you’ll love Puebla’s growing pulque scene. Pulque is the traditional beverage of indigenous Central Mexico and there are plenty of wonderful places to sample it in Puebla. The drink is made from the fermented sap of the maguey plant. Now, more than ever, the drink is seeing a surge in popularity, largely thanks to the younger generations who are seeing it as a great alternative to cocktails and beer. 

For another alternative tipple, you can try raisin liquor at La Pasita (Av 5 Ote 602). As the name suggests, this unique liquor is made of raisins and has a distinct taste that is quite unlike anything else. 

It is served in a small shot glass to be sipped (not knocked back like a tequila slammer!) and a chunk of goat’s cheese is added to the drink. La Pasita is one of the oldest bars in town and is credited with the invention of the beverage. 

It dates back to 1916 and is the size of someone’s living room. Patrons – from old timers who live local to tourists, stand around the bar and knock back raisins as they catch up on the local gossip.

The colonial architecture is gorgeous

As soon as you step foot in Puebla, you’re greeted with striking colonial architecture and cathedrals that date back to the 1500s. Puebla is an architecture fan’s paradise. The colorful facades and avenues are filled with historical buildings that make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. 

Make your way around the city to visit historic churches like Capilla del Rosario, and Templo de Santo Domingo. The Spanish church built this 17th-century chapel with ornate details and features that are considered some of the most intricate in the Americas. 

Head to the Zócolo de Puebla to see amazing 17th and 18th-century colonial architecture around the city’s central square. Nearby are the city’s famous museums such as Museo San Pedro de Arte and Museo Universitario Casa de los Muñecos . In these historic buildings, you’ll find not only fascinating exhibitions but some of the city’s most celebrated architecture. 

Puebla boasts a charming historic center and cathedral

On top of architecture, the Zócolo is home to plenty of bars, restaurants, street vendors, art fairs, and lively events. You’ll see locals and tourists mixing in a fun atmosphere. 

Take a relaxing stroll around the lush Zócolo grounds and enjoy the music of live musicians or sit and appreciate the fun atmosphere. 

The zocalo (main square) is also the center for festivities in the city. Performers of all types, such as clowns, street artists, dancers, and musicians, come here to entertain people of all ages. You’ll see people from all over the world who come here to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the city center. 

Next to the Zócolo is the world-famous Puebla Cathedral. This monumental cathedral was built from 1575 to 1649. 

It’s one of Mexico’s most celebrated cathedrals and once you enter, you’ll know why. Inside the grand hall are beautiful arches, carvings, organs, and more. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-visit part of your time in Puebla. 

Puebla is home to the oldest library in the Americas

Just a block away from the Zócolo and the Puebla Cathedral is the Biblioteca Palafoxiana, the oldest library in the Americas. This one-of-a-kind library houses thousands of rare and historical books, some dating back to the early years of the Spanish conquest. 

The library was built in 1646 when Bishop Juan de Palafox y Mendoza donated his personal collection of 5,000 books to the Colegio de San Juan, as long as they were to be free for the public. The library grew in size and eventually rivaled many libraries in Europe at the time. 

As soon as you step inside the library, you’re surrounded by beautiful old books held in centuries-old bookcases that climb the historic building’s walls. If you love books, then this destination is a must. 

Puebla is a great jump-off point for a day trip to Cholula

Just a short bus or taxi ride away is the ancient city of Cholula. This small city is famous for the Great Pyramid of Cholula, the largest pyramid by volume in the world. This structure predates the Aztec Empire and today you can experience the incredible monument up-close. There’s also a museum dedicated to the societies that built the pyramids and life in ancient Cholula. 

Cholula is a small, walkable Pueblo Magico, or Magical Town, full of markets, historical buildings, and fantastic restaurants. Walking in the community, you’ll see plenty of cultural landmarks and experience live music, art, and some of the best street food in Mexico. 

Spend your day in Cholula, walking around the Kiosko del Centro de Cholula green space. Next, visit some of the city’s wonderful buildings and museums, including the Convento de San Gabriel Arcángel , Museo de Sitio de Cholula , and the Regional Museum of Cholula . 

After grabbing some food, end the day by hiking up to the top of the Great Pyramid. You can visit the Santuario Nuestra Señora de los Remedios church on top. 

From here, you’ll get remarkable views of the surrounding landscape, including Puebla, Cholula, and the snow-capped volcanoes of Popocatepetl and Citlaltépetl , Mexico’s highest peak. 

There are always exciting festivals and events taking place

Puebla is a one-stop shop for traditional and non-traditional events and festivals. From colorful art and food fests to one of Mexico’s largest national holiday celebrations, there’s plenty to celebrate throughout the year in Puebla. 

Cinco de Mayo is usually a minor event in Mexico, compared to other festivals like Dia de Los Muertos and Dia de la Independencia. But in Puebla, this is one of the biggest festivals of the year. 

The national holiday celebrates Mexico’s defeat of the invading French army during the battle of Puebla and the city celebrates with gusto. Every year, huge musical acts and performers converge on the city to march in the parade of all parades with military bands and plenty of excitement. 

If you’re visiting during May, you’ll be in for a serious treat. 

Another important holiday celebration done well in Puebla is Dia de los Muertos . This national holiday is celebrated on November 1 and 2 and is one of Mexico’s most famous holidays. 

During this time, families paint their faces and visit the graves of their deceased loved ones. In Puebla, the celebration ends with plenty of food and after-dark celebrations that continue well into the morning. Nearby, in the village of Huaquechula, people place elaborate and colorful altars in their homes and light delicious-smelling incense. 

If you’re in Puebla in May, try to attend the famous and hugely popular Feria de Puebla . This festival hosts tons of cultural highlights and Mexican traditions , including bullfights, livestock expos, and exhibits that showcase the works of emerging Mexican artists. 

During the festival, you’ll find all kinds of entertainment, including rides, games, and even circus acts. You’ll also have endless food vendors set up during the entire event, so you can try all of Puebla’s most famous dishes in one exciting place. 

The Callejon de los Sapos (alley of the frogs) 

The obscurely named Callejon de los Sapos (alley of the frogs) is one of the most picturesque little streets in Puebla and a place that you must be sure to stop by. (The El Pasita bar is located on the corner of the street so you really have no excuse to miss it). 

This promenade, characterized by its colorful houses painted in every color of the rainbow and its cobbled road, is a photographer’s dream. It makes a great backdrop for your Puebla travel photos and the street is also lined with quaint coffee places and ramshackle tiendas (stores) selling antiques, artwork, bric-a-brack, and other trinkets that make for great souvenirs from your trip to Mexico. 

The street is named after an unfortunate incident that took place way back in the 6th century when a local flood caused the area to be overrun with toads! Fortunately, there are no more of the slimy green pests running free in the area today but the name has stuck. 

Admire sweeping vistas from the forts of Guadalupe and Loreto

Located high on Acueyametepec Hill above the city skyline of Puebla de Zaragoza, you will find the historic fortresses of Guadalupe and Loreto (Fuertes de Loreto y Guadalupe). These fortresses were originally Catholic chapels that were repurposed as military buildings for use by the Mexican army during the 19th century. 

The original religious hermitages that were built here were constructed by Franciscan friars in the 16th century. One temple was dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe while the other was built in honor of San Cristóbal. 

Defensive structures and protective walls were added around the sites in 1816 to protect Puebla and its residents from insurgents. Today, these fortresses contain interesting museums that showcase artifacts recovered from the region and tell the story of the battle that took place here on the 5th of May 1862. 

Is Puebla Worth Visiting? Final thoughts 

As you can see, the city of Puebla and the wider Puebla state region are wonderful places to visit. Between its historical sights, cultural attractions, and world-famous food, the city is full of amazing experiences. 

What’s more, are the people who call it home. For being a big city, Puebla often feels like a small community with friendly people and a welcoming energy that you’ll be sure to love. 

There are plenty of things to do in Puebla and regardless of how long you choose to spend in the area, you will never find yourself bored or twiddling your thumbs. Puebla is also relatively safe and can be enjoyed by everyone from couples and families, to solo travelers of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. 

Do you have any other concerns or questions about visiting? Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any help with planning your trip.

If this is your first time traveling to Mexico, you might also enjoy reading these tips for visiting Mexico . Have a safe trip and enjoy Mexico! Buen Viaje! Matt and the Mexico Travel Secrets team Xo

Matthew Dursum

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Ultimate Puebla Mexico Travel Guide: Visiting in 2023

· [updated august 2023] ·.

This post is one that is near and dear to our hearts. While we frequently write about cities that we have visited and loved, this one is about the place that we chose to call home for a short stint of our lives while we earned our Master’s degrees. This Puebla Travel Guide is as thorough as it gets.

After visiting Puebla once, I knew that Puebla was the perfect place to spend a couple of years. We planned on moving to Mexico to go to graduate school and attain true fluency in Spanish. After living in Puebla for a while, we are equipped to tell you everything to know for your visit to Puebla!

A lot of people wonder, “Is Puebla worth visiting?” Once you read this post, I think you’ll know the answer to that!

We lived in Puebla for 1.5 years while studying for our Masters.

This post contains affiliate links through which we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed are my own.

Why Is Puebla Worth Visiting?

First, we want to address a potential elephant in the room: Why is Puebla Mexico worth visiting? Does this city really deserve a visit? Honestly, is Puebla worth visiting at all? 

The short answer is yes. The long answer is found throughout the rest of this post.

Fact: Puebla is one of the most historic cities in Mexico.

Most Americans have heard of Cinco de Mayo. But few know that this is actually the commemoration of the Battle of Puebla! This battle took place in Puebla, and was actually between the Mexican Army and the French Invaders – not the Spanish! 

Puebla state was a very important region when Spain ruled Mexico, and Puebla de Zaragoza is its capital city. Its wealth and beauty have extended into the 21st century, between the opulence of its luxury hotels to the quaintness of its cobblestone streets.

Puebla is located less than two hours from the sprawling metropolis of Mexico City. For this reason many see it as  one of the best day trips from Mexico City.  While this is certainly a nice plan, you’d be missing out if you tried to visit Puebla as a day trip from Mexico City. 

How Many Days Do You Need in Puebla? 

We’d say that at minimum you need at least three days. We find new exciting things here every week and can’t imagine trying to experience this place in just a few days!

I am a Philly guy, and I think Puebla reminds me a lot of Philadelphia in a few ways. Both are massive cities that are among the top 5 cities in terms of population in their country (about 1.5 million people each). Both are jam-packed with history, and both tend to live a life in the shadow of their massive metropolitan neighbor. 

If you visit Puebla as a day trip, you will be able to go on a guided tour to see some of the city’s highlights and taste some of its delicious food. However, this isn’t enough time to really explore the rich Mexican history that is still alive in Puebla. From the Calle de los Dulces to traditional markets, there is just too much to experience in such little time.

How to Get to Puebla

Fly directly to puebla.

You have two main options when deciding how to get to Puebla.  The first option is flying directly into Puebla and taking an Uber or a taxi into the city.   Puebla International Airport  is very small and your flight options may be limited, but it is definitely the quickest way to get to Puebla.

If you choose this route and want to take an Uber, you may need to exit the airport and walk to the main street before you can request it, as Ubers are (for some odd reason) allowed to drop off at the airport but not allowed to pick up. The airport sits about 30 minutes northwest of the city and the trip to the center should cost between 5 and 10 dollars (100 to 200 pesos) in either Uber or Taxi.

If someone asked me how to get to Puebla, I probably wouldn’t recommend this option because the flight routes are usually pretty expensive and all require a layover somewhere (unless you’re flying from Houston!)

Fly to Mexico City & Take a Bus to Puebla

The second way to get to Puebla, which is almost definitely more affordable for most people, is to fly into Mexico City and then take a bus to Puebla.  Buses run from  Mexico City International Airport (MEX)  all day every day to both of Puebla’s main bus stations:   CAPU  and  Paseo Destino .

Both are a bit removed from the center of the city, but Paseo Destino is definitely easier to navigate, it’s a lot nicer, and it is probably closer to where you’ll be staying.

To get to the bus area in the airport, once you’ve passed through  customs , you’ll hang a left, following the overhead sign with the bus on it. You’ll need to go up an escalator, pass by a Starbucks, and eventually hang another right up a ramp.

There are ticket counters for each bus company here and you can hop on whichever bus heads out next! Once you arrive in Puebla you can simply call an Uber or wave down a taxi to take you to your hotel, Airbnb, or other destination. If someone asked me how to get to Puebla, this is absolutely the option I’d recommend.

Best Things to Do in Puebla

It’s impossible to squeeze all of our favorite places and the must-sees into one post, but we’ll do our best to summarize the top things to do in Puebla. Most of these things can be found in the heart of the city, and most can be done almost any day of the year.

1. Admire the Colorful Colonial Architecture

Being one of the most elite cities when Mexico was under Spanish rule, Spain invested a ton of money in making the city of Puebla absolutely beautiful.  The gem of the city is its massive burgundy cathedral  with a stone façade that sits right on the south side of the Zocalo. 

The cathedral isn’t everything, though! The architecture of colonial buildings throughout the entire city is extremely ornate. The pastel colors express a distinctly Mexican attitude.

A walk down the Callejon de los Sapos is one of the most beautiful ways to witness this love for bright colors. But buildings all throughout the city are colored like pastel sidewalk chalk. One of my favorite things to do is go for a walk in a different direction every day and admire the sheer beauty of the architecture in the city! This is easily one of the best things to do in Puebla, and there’s no need for a tour guide.

2. Go Church Hopping

Whether you’re Catholic or not, it’s hard not to fall in love with the raw beauty of the churches in Puebla.  There are 365 Roman Catholic churches in the city of Puebla , and every single one is stunning! 

The churches here are so stunning that it would be impossible to leave this off the list of the top things to do in Puebla. Ranging from smaller chapels to massive structures like the cathedral, each church is different and has its own flare. There is no denying the influence that the Roman Catholic Church has had on the area.

There are 365 Catholic churches in the city of Puebla. That means you could visit a new church every day for a year!

We highly recommend checking out the cathedral, the Templo de San Francisco de Asis, the Templo de Santo Domingo, and the Capillo del Rosario, which is decorated with inexpressible amounts of gold.

When we lived in Puebla, we tried to go to a new Church every Sunday to get a taste of all of the churches that this city has to offer. We have yet to be disappointed in a church in Puebla, and none of them charge an entrance fee to visitors.

The cathedral is the nicest cathedral we have visited in Mexico, surpassing even the one in Mexico City (which is actually very underwhelming)!

3. Visit the Fort of Loreto and its Beautiful Surrounding Park

Visiting the Fort and its park has been one of the top things to do in Puebla for over a century. The fort was used in the Battle of Cinco de Mayo where the Mexicans fought off the French. If you visit, you’ll see why they fought over this part of the city! 

It is very high up and has gorgeous views of the city. You can even see the snow-capped volcanoes that lie to the west, east, and north.  While it was an area of extreme strategic importance in 1862, it is now a fantastic spot for a sunset picnic .

The Fort of Loreto is the perfect spot for a sunset picnic.

The fort isn’t just surrounded by your average small park. The part surrounding the fort is large, grassy, and even has a couple of coffee shops. 

If you sit on the western slope of the park you’re in for an incredible view. You can watch the sunset over the National Park of the twin volcanoes of Popocatépetl and Iztaccihuatl. While you’re in the park, be sure to check out the Museum of the Evolution of Puebla, the Regional Museum of Puebla, and the Interactive Museum of the Battle of Cinco de Mayo!

4. Take a Ride on Either the Teleferico or the Estrella de Puebla

While both of these are a bit touristy, they both provide awesome bird’s-eye views of the city. Teleférico is Spanish for cable car, and the Estrella de Puebla is a ginormous Ferris Wheel in the posh area of Angelopolis. The Estrella costs 40 pesos (around $2) for a ride, and the Teleférico will cost you 70 pesos (around $3.50). 

The reason that we suggest only hitting up one of these spots is that the views are very similar. Ferris wheels and cable cars offer similar experiences, and they can both be a great way to see the city from above.

If you’re looking for some higher-end dinner spots or some shopping, go to the Estrella de Puebla. It’s surrounded by malls and restaurants of all kinds (including American places like iHop, Chili’s, and Applebees). 

If you want to do two of the top things to do in Puebla at once, you can hop on the Teleferico in the middle of the park surrounding the Fort of Loreto. Both the Estrella de Puebla and the Teleferico are good things to do in Puebla, but only one is necessary.

*If anyone at either place (especially the Teleférico) tries to tell you that purchasing the pictures is mandatory, don’t listen to them. It’s not.*

5. Head to the Callejon de Los Sapos

This one is near and dear to us because it is where we lived for a significant portion of our time in Puebla. The Callejon de los Sapos and its surrounding area, which is just referred to as Los Sapos, is the prettiest street in all of Puebla. It’s towards the top of the list of the top things to do in Puebla. 

If you don’t believe us, just look on Instagram. In English its name means “Alley of the Frogs,” because hundreds of years ago there used to be a pond in this spot that was home to hundreds of frogs and toads. Nowadays, this areas cobblestone streets don’t resemble frogs at all!

Filled with cute cafes, restaurants, high-end boutique hotels and a lively nightlife scene, this area is by far the best borough of the city. It gives us strong European vibes mixed with the colorful flare of Mexico. On Saturday mornings, there is a cute artisan/flea market that is set up all throughout the area which we’d also recommend seeing! 

On Saturday nights, the place is filled with people socializing with one another. We’d recommend visiting here either in the morning on a weekend or right before or after dinner on a weekday. We hope you love it as much as we do!

The name of this iconic street in English is “Alley of the Frogs”.

6. Walk Around the Zocalo of Puebla

In Mexico, the zocalo is essentially the main square of the city. Visiting the zocalo isn’t just on the list of the top things to do in Puebla – it’s probably on the list of the top things to do in any city in Mexico. There’s a zocalo in almost every city, and they’re the center of life and culture in the city. 

In each zocalo, you’ll normally come across the Cathedral, a pretty small park or fountain area, and a ton of food options.

In Puebla, you’ll find the Cathedral (a must-see) on the southwest side, the Municipal palace on the northeast side, and food options lining the rest of the way. Some of the restaurants have great terraces and outdoor seating, and we definitely recommend either eating outside or getting a spot on a terrace. 

If you want some good Mexican food, try either Mi Viejo Pueblito or La Porfiriana, both located on the southeast side of the square. There is also a colorful Puebla sign in the Zocalo where you can take pictures!

7. Visit Puebla’s Top Museums

Puebla is actually jam-packed with great museums. There are the ones by the fort which we already mentioned, and then there are a few other standout options throughout the city. 

First and foremost, there’s the International Baroque Museum. This museum is considered to be one of the best museums in all of Mexico, and it is filled with awesome baroque designs and architecture. There are also some awesome views from the art museum’s roof!

Then there is the  Museo Amparo , which houses over 3,500 pieces of Pre-Columbian (that’s before Christopher Columbus) art. Third is the  Museo Casa de Alfeñique , which is a preserved 18th-century mansion. 

Finally, we’d say check out the  Biblioteca Palafoxiana , which is a huge 17th-century library that has thousands of old books. Did we mention that  this is the OLDEST LIBRARY IN THE AMERICAS ? Visiting any combination of these museums is easily one of the best things to do in Puebla.

Puebla City houses the oldest library in the americas!

8. Take a Day Trip to Cholula

Cholula is a satellite city of Puebla, and it is one of the most charming places in all of Mexico. Recognized by its stunning mountain backdrop, Cholula is becoming a tourist favorite. We lived in Cholula for a year and are dying to move back.

Cholula is filled with stunning colonial buildings, but its main draw is its archeological sites. Most notably, the Great Pyramid of Cholula, which is just a short walk from the city center.

While it is mostly underground, this is the largest pyramid in the entire world. It’s even bigger than the Great Pyramids of Giza, in terms of volume! Built on top of it is the Capilla del Rosario, which is one of the most iconic sights in Mexico.

Between the colonial era and pre-colonial era, Cholula has a rich history that rivals the heritage of any other Mexican city. While the state of Puebla is filled with smaller towns worth visiting, Cholula tops the list.

9. Try Chile en Nogada

Chile en Nogada is the National Dish of Mexico, and it originates in Puebla! This dish consists of stuffed chili peppers covered in a creamy sauce and topped with pomegranate seeds. Personally, I am not a huge fan, but many people are and there’s no denying they are part of what gives Puebla such a good food reputation. 

Even if you don’t love them, you simply need to try them to have an authentic experience! Chiles en Nogada are only served around September, in celebration of Mexico’s Independence Day on September 16. 

10. Learn About Talavera Pottery

Talavera is a type of pottery that has been made in the area for centuries. Talavera pottery is distinguished by its white and blue colors, and it’s one of the top souvenirs to purchase in Puebla. This is really high-quality stuff, too, making it a great option to give as a Christmas gift back home.

Uriarte Talavera is a good place to buy some pottery pieces, and its central location is one of the main reasons so many people visit. 

The Best Foods to Eat in Puebla

Puebla has a reputation of being a bit of a foodie city, especially for those interested in Mexican cuisine. This makes sense, as both of the national dishes of Mexico, Chiles en Nogada and Mole, originated here. Poblano cuisine is actually considered by many to be the best food in Mexico, which means that the best foods to eat in Puebla are actually some of the best foods to eat in Mexico as a whole!

We wrote a full blog post on all the foods you should be eating in Puebla. The history behind this food is fascinating, and the tastes are next level. Open our full blog post to see it.

– R E A D –

Best Places to Eat in Puebla

1. el mural de los poblanos.

This place is widely regarded as one of the finest restaurants in the city and easily one of the best places to eat in Puebla. They serve authentic, high-quality Poblano food for a reasonable price by US standards. This place is a bit on the nicer end, and you’d be better off in smart casual attire. This is a great place to try Mole Poblano or Chiles en Nogada, as many people say this restaurant is the best in the world at both of these dishes!

2. Casa Barroca

This is another restaurant on the finer end. They also serve fantastic Poblano food in a beautiful environment. It’s really hard to put either of these first two restaurants above the other, as both serve incredible local food in a fantastic space and belong on the list of the best places to eat in Puebla without a question. This would be another awesome spot to try one of the national dishes! We went for brunch on a Sunday, and it was honestly fantastic.

3. El Cielo de Jalisco

This is less of a restaurant recommendation and more of a quick bite stop, but it still deserves the title of one of the best places to eat in Puebla. It’s an extremely local, little shop and we have one recommendation for you – cemitas arabes and cemitas al pastor (or tortas if they’re out of cemitas!) This place is our go-to for a quick bite, and we’d be lying if we said we go here any less than weekly. Expect to pay less than a dollar per cemita or torta! 

It’s a mom & pop so they don’t have a website, but these directions should get you there!

Address: On Calle 4 Sur between Avenida 5 Oriente & 7 Oriente.

4. La Berenjena

We hate to include a restaurant on the list of the best places to eat in Puebla that doesn’t even serve Mexican food, but La Berenjena is just that good. The pizza here is fantastic, along with a good selection of other Italian dishes. There are several locations, but the one we’d recommend is the one in Los Sapos, as you can stroll the neighborhood after your dinner! They have a great indoor and outdoor space and are a good way to mix things up if you want a break from Mexican food.

5. Antigua Taqueria La Oriental

This place is another chain, and it is the home of Tacos Arabes. There are a bunch of these located throughout the city. Their Tacos Arabes are clearly the thing to try, but we’ve never heard a complaint about anything on their menu! We’d recommend it as a great lunch spot. The thing that makes this one of the best places to eat in Puebla is its convenience. There are locations in just about every part of the city!

6. El Patio y Las Ranas

Do you like tacos? We hope so if you’re headed to Mexico! The final place we’d consider one of the best places to eat in Puebla is Las Ranas. It’s our favorite taco joint in town. They have so many different types of meat that you can order in your tacos, and they have very affordable prices. We’d recommend trying their chorizo tacos or their tacos al pastor!

How to Get Around Puebla

Puebla is very much a car city. By that we mean the public transportation exists, but it isn’t the most accessible. There is no subway system – it is all buses and colectivos. 

While renting a car is always an option, we’d simply recommend using Uber all the time. Taxis are never your best bet in Mexico, and Uber is both safer and cheaper.  You can Uber just about anywhere in the city for less than $3!

Uber is dirt cheap in Mexico.

Ubering will probably be significantly cheaper than renting a car or hiring a driver, and it is definitely easier than driving. If you are worried about using Uber while in Mexico, be sure to  read this post about why Uber is safe to use abroad.  

Driving is a bit wilder in Mexico than it is in the United States. If you do decide to rent a car, though,  check out our post on tips for driving in Mexico.  

Is Puebla Safe for Tourists?

“Is Puebla safe for tourists?” is probably one of the questions that we get the most when people ask us about our previous home city. A lot of people are worried about visiting different parts of Mexico and tend to wonder things like “is Puebla safe for tourists?” and “how dangerous is Puebla?” 

We understand the concern, but we think it may be a bit unnecessary. After living here for two years, we have a pretty good grasp on safety in Puebla. We wrote a whole post on the  most dangerous places in Mexico , and Puebla doesn’t come close to cracking the list.

Puebla is no more dangerous than any major city in your own country.

Now, in my opinion, how dangerous is Puebla? No more dangerous than any major city in your own country. In fact, Puebla might even be safer. 

While we’ve heard stories of various incidents that have happened, they’re rare and are nothing that doesn’t happen in places like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

Puebla is nothing like Tijuana. I definitely had to talk a lot about safety in  my Tijuana travel guide . 

If you want to maximize your safety in Puebla, take the basic precautions that you would take in any major city. Don’t do anything illegal, don’t walk around too late at night, and don’t flash any valuables. If you go about your business normally and don’t go asking for trouble, the odds of something happening to you are very low.

Our Final Tips for Visiting Puebla

What to wear in puebla.

The temperature is awesome all year long in Puebla. You can get away with springtime attire here any month of the year. Many places in this region have been dubbed “cities of eternal spring” because the weather really doesn’t stray too far from mild and comfortable. 

It can get a little chilly at night. So if you’re coming any time outside of the summer I’d advise bringing a sweater. Also, it’s best to dress on the modest side, as Central Mexico is a more conservative area.

If you visit during the rainy season, be sure to bring an umbrella or a rain jacket. This runs from April to October.

Haggle in Local Markets

Secondly, if you go to any type of market, feel free to haggle! This is often the expectation, and speaking Spanish definitely helps. Visiting the local markets is one of the best ways to really immerse yourself in Mexican culture. 

Our favorite market in Puebla is the Mercado La Acocota, which is just east of the Historic Center. We shopped here every single week while living in Puebla. They have everything from fresh corn tortillas to produce to meat to toiletries.

Always Give a Tip

Tipping in Mexico is a bit different from in the United States. In restaurants, 10% is the expectation and 15% is for exceptional service.  But   in Mexico, it is customary to tip almost anyone for anything . 

Parking attendants, Uber drivers, and delivery people all expect tips. Having 10 pesos or so to pass along to anyone that gives you a hand will be greatly appreciated, and it’s one of the easiest ways to support the local economy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Puebla

How many days do i need in puebla mexico.

You should allot about 4 days to visit Puebla, at minimum. This gives you enough time to explore the historic center, take a day trip to Cholula, try some of the best restaurants, and visit the city’s top museums. Any less than 4 days is not enough time to truly experience Puebla.

Is Puebla walkable?

Puebla is very walkable. The best neighborhoods of the city are all around the historic center and can all be reached by foot. Any areas that are further away are easily reached by Uber.

Should I stay in Cholula or Puebla?

I highly recommend staying in the Historic Center of Puebla instead of Cholula. While Cholula is wonderful, there is much more at your fingertips when you stay in the center of Puebla, and there are many very nice hotels.

What is the best time to visit Puebla Mexico?

The best time to visit Puebla, Mexico is during the area’s dry season. This runs from October through April in Mexico’s central highlands. It offers visitors comfortable temperatures, little to no rain, and cool breezes.

Can you drink the water in Puebla Mexico?

You should not drink the water in Puebla, Mexico. While many of the locals do it, it isn’t a good idea for foreigners. You can buy jugs or bottles of water at any convenience store, and restaurants happily serve bottled water to their guests.

What is the best part of Puebla to stay in?

The best part of Puebla to stay in is the Historic Center. This is actually where we lived during our time in Puebla. Almost everything is at your fingertips and is within walking distance if you stay in the Historic Center of Puebla. 

The Quinta Real is one of the top hotels in Puebla , and it is shockingly affordable for how nice it is. 

That’s all we have for you about visiting downtown Puebla! Hopefully this Puebla Travel Guide helps you to plan the ultimate trip to Mexico’s 5th biggest city. If you have any questions, be sure to drop a comment in the comment section or shoot us an email.

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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A Puebla Itinerary: You Need More Than a Day to Do it Right

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Puebla falls into an awkward category, with just a little too much to squeeze in on a day trip from Mexico City  but not quite enough to merit a dedicated trip of its own.  You can see it all in one very long day, but even that requires you to spend the night so you don’t miss the two best times of day: sunrise and late night.  Hit the best of the city (and its neighbor, Cholula) on this Puebla itinerary.

Why You Should Visit Puebla Mexico

Puebla has a lived in feel that isn’t matched by anywhere else I’ve been in Mexico.  The streets are packed with locals and the tourists, for the most part, are Mexicans visiting from other parts of the country.  There aren’t tourist agencies on every corner and you’re left discovering things on your own — something that can be a very joyous way to travel.

It’s picture-perfect: a colonial city full of colorful street markets and backed by snow-capped volcanoes that’s hard to resist.  On top of that, Puebla has a ton of history, culture, beautiful architecture, and some delicious, unique food.  It’s even a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Puebla vs Cholula

When most people refer to Puebla, they are actually combining the greater area of Puebla and Cholula, less than ten miles away.  In some ways, Cholula is a suburb of Puebla (and is home to La Universidad de las Américas Puebla), and in other ways, Cholula is an entirely separate city.

Both are worth visiting and their proximity makes them simple to combine.  Puebla, by far, is more famous for its historic center but Cholula is where I found the most character.  Partially because of the student body, Cholula has amazing nightlife: everything from fun bars to incredible jazz music and everything in-between.  It’s also very walkable and easier to navigate.

If I were you, I’d stay in Cholula and just taxi (or Uber ) into Puebla for part of your visit.

The Perfect Puebla Itinerary

Early morning climb to iglesia de nuestra señora de los remedios.

It’s hard, I know, but drag yourself out of bed as soon after sunrise as you can muster.  Climb the many steps to the top of the hill in Cholula for marvelous views of Mexico’s most famous volcano, Popocatepetl .  As the day goes on, views get obscured by clouds and haze, so it’s important to go early, even if that means taking a nap later on.

As of February 2018, the church itself is undergoing renovation work from the recent earthquakes, so you can’t go in at this time.

Breakfast in San Pedro Cholula: Ciudad Sagrada

What if I told you that you could dine in a gorgeous outdoor garden with perfect views of the town church and some of the best food and service I’ve ever experienced in Mexico?

Ciudad Sagrada is in the heart of San Pedro Cholula and it gets busy for lunch and dinner when reservations are highly recommended.  At breakfast ( like everything in Puebla, they open at 8am ), tables are fair game.  Settle in with a bottomless cup of coffee and listen carefully to the morning specials.

Go Underground at the Great Pyramid of Cholula

At first glance, you’ll see a yellow church on top of a hill in Cholula.  In reality, that hill actually hides a pyramid 450 meters wide and 66 meters tall.  That’s the largest monument ever constructed, anywhere in the world, by any civilization — yes, bigger than the Great Pyramids in Egypt.

Tunnels lead right into this hill, allowing you to walk through and get a taste of this massive construction project thought to have started in 300 BC.  Get a guide for your visit (they’ll be waiting at the entrance).  If you simply walk through on your own, it’ll look like any tunnel in the world, but the history is fascinating.

Taxi to Puebla

From Cholula, a mid-morning ride to Puebla shouldn’t take too long compared to traffic later in the day.  Budget about 120 pesos for a taxi ride (or 90ish on Uber) to the Puebla Zocalo, or center square.

Hint: I don’t recommend the train between Puebla and Cholula.  It runs very slowly and at 72 pesos per person, each way, there’s not much cost advantage either.  In a group of two, the train is actually more expensive than a private car!

Things to Do in Puebla

Puebla has a dozen photogenic sites, but none of them take particularly long to visit.  The ones I think you shouldn’t miss are on a short, easy walking route.  If you started early, you can squeeze this all in before dinner.

If you tend to linger, want to spend time in Puebla’s museums, see Cholula’s architectural sites, or sightsee in the dozens of local churches, you’ll definitely need a second day.

For City Views, Visit the Museo Amparo

Puebla’s art museum, the Museo Amparo , is a little too “out there” for me, but it was still one of my favorite stops in Puebla.  Take the elevator to the roof for close-up views of the city.  You’ll see church tops, colonial Spanish architecture, and on a clear day, maybe even the volcano.  The staff didn’t seem to mind at all that I was clicking away on my camera without ordering anything from their coffeeshop.

Tacos Arabes for Lunch in Puebla

The story behind this iconic Poblano food starts with Middle Eastern immigrants who came to Puebla around the First World War, bringing spit-roasted lamb and pita bread with them.  As the two cultures fused, more storefronts started serving pork  al pastor  instead of lamb to attract a larger customer base and serving their flatbread with spicy salsas instead of traditional Middle Eastern flavors.  Before long, everywhere had pork roasting the way you’d expect in a doner kebab shop and then being thinly sliced and served on flatbread with spicy salsas.

Here’s what you need to know about trying tacos arabes in Puebla: they need sauce.  Since the flatbread is thicker and dryer than a standard tortilla, you need something to keep it moist.  Most shops have red chipotle salsas and death-defying green chile salsas.  Choose carefully, but be sure to use at least one.  I tried my tacos arabes at Las Ranas and they were good, but the side of beans was the star of the show.

Do it Yourself Walking Tour of Puebla

1) Capilla del Rosario 

Inside the Church of the Santo Domingo, there’s a chapel entirely gilded with gold.  Every surface is covered, making this a site like no other.  The chapel is to the left of the altar — make sure you don’t miss it.

2) Calle de los Dulces

For about three blocks on Avenida 6 Oriente, there are stores filled with candies, cookies, and other sweets.  Almost all of them carry similar collections, but for sure you’ll want to stop in at least one to buy a bag of what looks yummiest to you.

Hint: prices are pretty much the same on the whole street, but as you get farther from the main square, you’ll find staff more willing to talk to you about the different candies.

3) Callejon de los Sapos

The alley of the frogs really has nothing to do with frogs at all.  These days, it’s a colorful street lined with artwork for sale and leading to antiques shops.  Even if you’re not a shopper, it’s a cute street to walk down.

4) La Pasita

You know it’s a hole-in-the-wall bar when they’re only open a few hours in the afternoon (12:30-5:30 as of my visit).  La Pasita , right at the alley of the frogs, serves shots of liquer made from raisin paste that’s served with a garnish of salty aged cheese and a raisin.  You have to try it to understand.

5) Biblioteca Palafoxiana

Mexico’s first library, and sometimes considered the first in the Americas, this isn’t much more than a quick stop.  Still, it’s interesting to peek inside for the wood carving.

Hint: The library is inside the Casa de la Cultura on the upper floor and is easy to miss if you aren’t looking for it.

6) Puebla Zocalo

Like all Mexican cities, Puebla’s main square comes alive starting in the late afternoon and heading into the night.  It’s surrounded by the municipal “palace” and cathedral, among other things, but in my opinion it’s better for the people-watching than for the sites.

Hint: On Friday and Saturday nights, the cathedral exterior displays a colorful light show.  I missed it due to the timing of my visit, but from the photographs, it looks like it’s worth a visit.

Where to Eat in Puebla

For dinner, I have a few recommendations…easy to do, since I was there four days and eating is one of Puebla’s favorite pastimes.  You can’t go wrong with any of these, but each one is very, very different.

For a Casual Meal:  If it’s still open, head to El Mercado de Sabores Poblanos (closes at 7pm).  This is a tourist-friendly market, with dozens of food stalls that all looked pretty hygienic to me.  The thing to try is a  cemita , a sandwich piled high with meat, string cheese, avocado, and as many spicy pickled vegetables as you can handle.  This will fill you up for days.

For Traditional Mole:  Assuming you made a reservation, Mesones Sacristia is a fabulous place to try more of Puebla’s famous dishes.  They have a sampler plate featuring chocolately  mole  plus red and green pipians .  They also have a tasting menu that includes the above and several other dishes, but I can’t imagine eating that much!

For Something Trendy:  Back in Cholula, you can eat with the locals at Ocho 30 .  The atmosphere was unbeatable and most groups seemed to be ordering rounds of specialty cocktails with thin crust pizza.  I’m a sucker for a good salad, which they had many of.

End Your Night in Cholula

Cholula has more memorable nightlife than Puebla.  The two main areas to go out are Camino Real, opposite the university, or Container City — a one-of-a-kind center where the bars are made out of old shipping containers.

There’s a hipster vibe to it, but it’s fun to go even if that’s not normally your scene.  Each shipping container is a separate bar, each with their own theme and menu, so you can bar hop practically without moving.  The outdoor space is lively and a fun atmosphere.

A Few Things to Skip in Puebla Some things just aren’t as great as they’re cracked up to be. Estrella de Puebla (the giant ferris wheel)  – This is really popular with local families, but I didn’t love it from a tourist perspective.  As you go around the ferris wheel, most of the views are of the shopping mall and highways below, rather than cityscapes.  In my opinion, not worth the amount of time you’ll spend in line. The Legends “Light Show” at Concordia Lake –  The show had potential, but the stories are really aimed at children, not to mention 100% in Spanish.  If you have kids, they may get a kick out of the laser projections, but I think most travelers can skip this one. El Mural de los Poblanos –  Reviews on this well-known restaurant are very much “love it or hate it” and unfortunately I fell into the latter category.  If you want to try mole or pipian, I think you can do better.

Where to Stay in Puebla

As I mentioned earlier, I think the better bet is to stay in Cholula.  You’ll get those early morning views and nightlife and you can still visit Puebla in the afternoon and early evening when it comes alive anyway.

In Cholula, my pick is Estrella de Belem B&B if you’re looking for upscale comfort at an affordable price.

Not sold on Cholula?  If you do stay in Puebla, try the NH Puebla Centro Historico for a fantastic location that’s also safe and quiet.

How to Get to Puebla

If you’re combining Puebla and Mexico City in the same trip, there are frequent buses between the two cities.  My favorite bus company in Mexico is ADO, which runs buses specifically between Mexico City’s “TAPO” station and Puebla “CAPU”, taking about 2.5 hours each way.

You can also take a bus straight from the Mexico City airport to Puebla, which makes a lot of sense if Puebla is the first or last stop on your trip.

>>>>> Related Post: How to Buy ADO Bus Tickets Online

I flew home from the Puebla airport rather than heading to Mexico City.  It’s a small airport that’s very easy to use, but it’s at least 40 minutes from downtown Puebla so allow plenty of time for that ride.  There is NO Uber service from the airport (it’s too far from Puebla’s service area), so you’ll need cash.

MORE INFO TO PLAN YOUR TRIP

Climbing Iztaccihuatl & the Rugged Wilderness of Popocatepetl Volcano

3 Puebla Travel Tips I Learned the Hard Way

14 thoughts on “a puebla itinerary: you need more than a day to do it right”.

Omg, we went to Puebla for 4 nights (special event) in December and loved it! Love your post. I REALLY miss the mole…had some amazing mole at Fonda de Santa Clara. The biblioteca was closed for renovations. 🙁 🙁 🙁 We had an event at Museo Internacional del Barocco and that was very impressive especially architecturally. I could name more, but most of all I was impressed how cute and clean it was, modern but still respecting its roots.

@Esther, Yes, the architecture everywhere is gorgeous! So intricate and unique. I will have to mark down Fonda de Santa Clara to try next time 🙂

Great blog post. Keep on writing such content!

Do you know if anyone does a cooking class there?

@Natalie, Although I didn’t participate in either, there is a cooking class on the GetYourGuide platform (a reputable company who I’ve used before). Meson Sacristia , the restaurant I recommend for mole, also offers cooking classes but you will need to call to inquire about details as they don’t book online.

Is there a stop for Cholula or do we take a cab/Uber from CAPU?

The only stop is CAPU. Taxi/Uber will be easiest but there are also local buses if you’re on a tight budget.

Thanks for another great post Bekky. We’re in Puebla at the moment after a great couple of days in Cholula and will be following your walking tour recommendations. One update to your post is that you can now catch an Uber from Puebla airport, they just aren’t allowed to pick up at the terminal. It’s an easy walk through the car park to the bus stop next to the exit (marked A) where we saw a few others meeting their Uber drivers.

@Kim, fabulous update, thank you!

cholula is awesome.

@Alec, I agree!

Thanks so much for your great assessment of these two towns! We will be heading there soon. I am wondering if you happened to visit the Parque Ecologico? We are travelling with kids and it seems like it would be a nice break for them from museums, and it looks great in pictures, but I am not finding it talked about much or coming up on any lists? Thanks.

@Kareen, I haven’t been, but you don’t have much to lose since it’s a free city park.

Love your unique angle! btw, the links to the hotels are no longer working.

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Things to do in Puebla

by Noel | | Mexico , Colonial cities | 0 comments

Things to Do in Puebla, Mexico: Exploring Authentic Mexican Culture and History (updated 2023)

Less than a two-hour bus ride from Mexico City’s Main Bus Station and you’re in the gorgeous city of Puebla which is a large cosmopolitan city with a fantastic combination of old and new to explore. Surprisingly there’s a lot to see and do in Puebla, a city of over 2 million people and you’ll enjoy exploring all around the city in its historic district and also some of the newer places and modern parts of the city to visit. Puebla is historic and exciting and in my experience, one of the most fascinating cities in Mexico to visit.

Welcome to the enchanting city of Puebla, Mexico, where history, culture, and gastronomy intertwine to create a captivating destination. Located just a couple of hours southeast of Mexico City, Puebla is renowned for its colonial architecture, vibrant streets adorned with Talavera tiles, and mouthwatering culinary delights. As you wander through the cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter magnificent churches, fascinating museums, and charming plazas that offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past.

Puebla’s culinary scene is equally enticing, with its famous mole poblano and a wide array of traditional dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center, admiring the iconic volcano views, or immersing yourself in the local traditions and folklore, Puebla promises a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. So join us as we embark on a journey to discover the beauty, flavors, and cultural heritage of this remarkable city

Here’s some of our favorite things to do in Puebla below.

Discover the Enchanting Attractions: Things to Do in Puebla, Mexico  – departing by bus to Puebla

Why visit Puebla, Mexico

The fourth largest city in Mexico, Puebla is cosmopolitan, hip with a fun historic district to explore and easy to walk around. With an interesting mixture of old and new, the city is vibrant, well lived in and very colorful from the lively streets, beautiful zocalo square and all the fun public markets to explore in the city.

There are quite a few fantastic attractions and places of interest in the historic district and around different parts of the city to explore. Check out all these wonderful suggestions below that can easily fill up a two-to-three-day itinerary in visiting the city. If time is short, then you can visit Puebla on a long day trip, but it is better to stay overnight to enjoy a more relaxed visit to this historic and cosmopolitan city.

Weather and the best time to visit Puebla, Mexico?

Puebla, Mexico enjoys a mild and temperate climate throughout the year, making it a pleasant destination to visit. Understanding the weather patterns will help you plan your trip accordingly.

The best time to visit Puebla is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to April. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with average temperatures ranging from the low 60s°F (around 15°C) to the mid-70s°F (around 24°C). This period offers comfortable weather for exploring the city and its outdoor attractions.

From May to October, Puebla experiences the rainy season, characterized by increased rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. While the rain can provide relief from the heat, it’s worth noting that some outdoor activities may be affected, and certain attractions may have reduced operating hours.

Puebla’s altitude also influences its climate. The city is situated at an elevation of around 7,000 feet (2,100 meters), which results in cooler temperatures compared to coastal areas. Nights can be chilly, so it’s advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater, especially during the cooler months.

It’s important to consider that Puebla hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, which may enhance your visit. For instance, the Cinco de Mayo celebrations in early May showcase Puebla’s historical significance. However, these periods can be busier with increased tourist activity, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.

In summary, the ideal time to visit Puebla is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is pleasant for outdoor exploration. Keep in mind the altitude and occasional rain if planning a trip during the rainy season. Regardless of the time of year, Puebla’s rich history, cultural attractions, and delectable cuisine offer a delightful experience for visitors.

How to get to Puebla, Mexico

Getting to Puebla, Mexico is relatively straightforward, and there are several transportation options available depending on your starting point:

By Air: The closest major airport to Puebla is Hermanos Serdán International Airport (PBC). It offers domestic and limited international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to your destination within Puebla.

By Bus: Puebla is well-connected to various cities in Mexico through an extensive bus network. Several bus companies operate routes to Puebla from major cities like Mexico City, Oaxaca, Veracruz, and more. The main bus terminal in Puebla is CAPU (Central de Autobuses de Puebla), located near the city center.

By Car: If you prefer to drive, Puebla is easily accessible via Mexico’s well-maintained highway network. From Mexico City, you can take the Mexico-Puebla Highway (Federal Highway 150D) to reach Puebla in approximately two hours, depending on traffic conditions.

By Train: Currently, there is no direct train service to Puebla. However, the Mexican government has plans to develop a high-speed train system that will connect Puebla with other major cities in the region.

Once you arrive in Puebla, you can utilize local transportation options such as walking, public buses, taxis, or ridesharing services to navigate within the city and explore its attractions.

Best 20 things to do around Puebla

The historic city and old town of Puebla is a Unesco World Heritage site with stunning architecture, beautiful squares, museums, shopping venues and historic landmarks and attractions to explore in the city. The old town is fairly compact and easy to walk around with many walking promenades that are easy and fun to explore in town. Check out the highlights to visiting below.

**For a guided tour experience, try this Puebla secrets tour here for a private tour of the tunnels, cathedral and other historic attractions.

1. Main square or Zocalo of Puebla

The starting point to visiting any city in Mexico, the Zocalo or main square of Puebla is quite grand and beautiful to explore and just hang out. If you love to take pictures, then you can check out the fountains, sculptures and colorful Puebla sign along with capturing gorgeous exterior photographs of the cathedral and beautiful architecture surrounding the square. Tree lined streets with historic buildings and covered porticoes decorate the areas around the zocalo. There is a very nice tourist center across from the Puebla sign to pick up brochures and ask questions about places to visit or tours around Puebla to enjoy.

Take a selfie at the Puebla sign, check out the colorful art and sculptures or just hang out at the Zocalo

2. Explore the gorgeous arcades and shops of Zocalo

Immerse yourself in the charm of Puebla’s historic center by exploring its captivating arcades. These architectural gems, known as “portales,” grace the streets of the city, offering a unique and enchanting experience.

As you stroll through the arcades, you’ll find yourself transported to a bygone era, where colonial influences blend seamlessly with indigenous elements. The arcades feature beautifully adorned arches, intricate stonework, and vibrant colors, creating a picturesque backdrop for your exploration.

These arcades not only serve as architectural delights but also house a variety of shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Indulge in some retail therapy, discover artisanal crafts, or savor traditional cuisine in the cozy establishments that line the arcades. You’ll find everything from local delicacies to international flavors, making it a gastronomic haven for food enthusiasts.

The arcades of Puebla’s centro are more than just architectural marvels; they serve as lively meeting points and social hubs. Locals and visitors gather here to chat, people-watch, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. It’s a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and witness the day-to-day life of Puebla.

Puebla city – the arcades in Zocalo

Here’s a quick look of the Zocalo area of Puebla

3. Cathedral de Puebla

The impressive cathedral de Puebla fronts the entire length of the main square and is a site to see from the outside and interiors of this gorgeous church. One of the earliest and most significant church built in Mexico the cathedral was created in 1575 and is one of Mexico’s first sacred catholic sites in the country. With an exterior stone façade with two impressive towers the cathedral is a mixture of Renaissance and Baroque styles with an octagonal altar and an impressive 14 chapels inside. The dome is supposed to be a copy of the famous Basilica of St. Peter’s in Rome.

The interiors contain many elaborate chapels and the altar is very unusual ad quite ornate, you’ll enjoy visiting and capturing some beautiful imagery while visiting here.

things to do in Puebla Mexico – visit the Cathedral

Cathedral de Puebla, interior details

Check out the ornate interiors of the Cathedral of Puebla

4. City Hall of Puebla

You can arrange a tour of the beautiful interiors of the City Hall from the tourism office to see some of the gorgeous interiors and murals of the building and paintings that depict historic scenes the guide can help to explain all the main details to understand the imagery.

**you do need to reserve to take a tour of the City Hall interiors through the Visit Puebla tourism office.

Puebla Mexico – the famous First Library of Puebla

5. First Library of Puebla

Just behind the cathedral sits the first public Library called Biblioteca Palafoxiana. One of the oldest and most grand libraries in the America’s, the library is really stunning to visit. You’ll see a collection of books from all different periods and ranging in topics covering medicine, religion, astronomy and all great authors and documents of significant record from the greatest civilizations. Established in 1646, the library houses over 41,000 books and quite a few dates back from the 15 th century on. Beautiful carved wood details from cedar, white pine and local coloyote wood along with the beautiful decorated altar make this one of the most beautiful libraries to visit in all of Mexico.

6. Callejon de los Sapos

This famous and colorful street in Puebla is better known as the Alley of the Toads with bold orange, blue and yellow. The street used to house many mills loaded with toads and there is a square with a toad fountain that pays tribute to the area. Along the street are unique shops selling antiques, books, the famous Talavera ceramics and other unique finds from the area.

7. Fort Guadalupe

The impressive Fort Guadalupe located Acueyametepec hill are two 19th-century forts that were present during French occupation of Mexico. The major battle of Puebla in 1862 helped to defend the entire city from the French Army and helped to finally liberate Mexico from French rule. Inside the fort are collections of weapons, document, uniforms and other paintings and art to see and learn from the various displays at the site.

8. Visit the arts and crafts markets of Puebla

There are two fantastic markets in Puebla to explore that sell a variety of local handicrafts, specialty foods and other unique finds from the area. These markets are the called the Parian Market and the Barrio del Artista. The Parian Market is the popular arts and crafts market with Talavera shops of ceramics, candles, textiles, candies, wood, copper, pewter and hand-crafted objects. Close by is the Barrio del Artist which has stalls that sell fine art works and paintings from local artists in the area. You can also hang out at the public square called San Roque square with restaurants, fountains and places to sit and people watch in the area.

the Parian Market and Talaveras stalls

The Barrio del Artist

9 San Roque square

in its captivating ambiance. This picturesque square, named after the patron saint of plagues, invites visitors to unwind and soak in the local atmosphere.

As you step into San Roque Square, you’ll be greeted by a delightful blend of colonial architecture, vibrant colors, and beautiful landscaping. Take a leisurely stroll along its pathways, adorned with benches and lush greenery, offering a serene and tranquil setting.

The square is adorned with a central fountain, adding a touch of elegance and providing a soothing backdrop. It’s a perfect spot to sit and relax, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere while watching locals and visitors go about their day.

San Roque Square is also home to quaint cafes and restaurants that spill out onto the square, creating a lively and inviting ambiance. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor patios, and indulge in a delicious meal or sip on a refreshing beverage as you bask in the charming surroundings.

Let’s check out the Parian marketplace of crafts in Puebla

10. Enjoy a visit to the candy street – Calle de los Dulces

The popular Candy Street of Puebla or the Calle de los Dulces Beginning just after the Templo de Santo Domingo, has been nicknamed Calle de los Dulces (Street of the Sweets) or Avenida 6 Oriente. While you stroll the street, you’ll find over 40 shops making traditional sweet treats from the region to sample and take home for souvenirs. The most popular sweets are the sweet potato candies or Los camotes de Puebla. Other popular candies to try include the small tarts called Tortitas de Santa Clara made with winter squash filling or muéganos which are crunchy, sweet bites of flavored cinnamon and honey.

Rick Bayless shares his discovery of Candy street in Puebla

11. Stunning chapel at the basilica Templo de Santo Domingo

The hours to visiting this church is limited but worth the effort to check out the magnificent chapel of the Capilla del Rosario decked out to the hilt in silver and gold dripping from elaborate carvings and sculpture. The rest of the church within the Templo de Santo Domingo is also marvelous to walk around and enjoy the beautiful details and ornamentation and craftsmanship. Finished in 1890 the Capilla is done in the New Spanish Baroque style and ornate carvings on every surface you can imagine with also the famous Talavera tilework on the walls and floors of this gorgeous temple.

Capilla del Rosario – ornate chapel interiors

Here’s a visit of the interiors of this amazing church and smaller chapels

12. Visit to Museo Amparo

An impressive contemporary building that houses the impressive collections of the museum covering a span of works from 2500 BC to current. Located in two colonial buildings with a contemporary annex the museum has an extensive Pre-Hispanic collections of art works and artifacts covering the Mayan, Aztecs, Olmecs, Mixtects, Teotihuacans, Zapotecs and Huastecs civilizations. What makes this fascinating is how the collections are curated to other important historical civilizations happening at those timeframes in Mexico to other cultures.

13. Walk through a pedestrian promenade at 5 de Mayo

Just of the Templo de Santo Domingo is this beautiful walking promenade in the historic district of Puebla. The walking promenade is filled with cafes, street food vendors and shops for an enjoyable stroll and experiencing the local scenes in the area. There’s also a beautiful covered glass shopping arcade with a variety of restaurants and shops to explore just off the promenade along with small squares to sit, try some local snacks and people watch the various young to old locals enjoying a day out on the street.

Glass atrium with shops and restaurants off 5 de Mayo

14. Try the delicious Mole of Puebla

Mole is one of the most traditional and popular local food to try here in Puebla. The most common way to eat this on the menus are typically with chicken with the mole sauce poured on top and served with rice or tortillas or also served on top of enchiladas. The birthplace of mole is said to have originated in Puebla and you definitely need to give it a try here at any of the traditional restaurants that serves this local dish.

15. Explore the public markets at Mercado de Sabores

If you are into street food and public markets then head out to the Mercado de Sabores within a modern complex and filled with delicious vendors selling local food favorites from the area and delicious snacks, desserts and pastries made at the market. You’ll definitely want to the explore the market before you commit to trying out some of the fabulous food for sale here.

16. Visit the Pueblo Magico of Cholula

A short taxi or Uber ride transports you to the small town of Cholula with its basilica majestically situated on an ancient pyramid, the largest in the Americas if not the world in terms of girth and height. The IOur Lady of Remedies Church was built in stages from the 16th century to the 19th century and using many of the stone rocks for building the church. Up on top are many viewpoint areas to explore and check out city views from all around and further out to the main city of Puebla in a distance.

** Experience this Cholulu tour with guide here for more inspiration and booking your tour.

17. Pyramids of Cholula

The ancient pyramids of Cholula are fantastic to explore along with walking up to the basilica on top with magnificent views of the entire valley area. The town below is colorful and also fun to explore when you get down to the bottom and want to check out the local vibe here. At the base, you can explore the ruins with placards that highlight all the major ruins and information about daily life and the ancient people from this region.

Here’s a visit around the streets of Cholula outside Puebla

18. Casa de los Muñecos

This ornate building located just off the Zocalo is a beautiful 18 th century Baroque style home and façade of local tiles and sculpted relief work. The casa is now the headquarters of the Bernerita University and also houses a museum inside with scientific instruments, furniture, artwork and carving detail works and important artists from the region.

19. Indulge in Pueblo’s Churros

Indulge in the mouthwatering delight of Puebla’s famous churros, a delectable treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth. These fried dough pastries, dusted with cinnamon sugar, are a beloved culinary tradition in Puebla and can be found in various locations throughout the city.

Sink your teeth into a piping hot churro, crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, as the aroma of cinnamon wafts through the air. These delightful treats are often served with a side of rich and creamy hot chocolate for dipping, creating a perfect combination of flavors.

When in Puebla, head to one of the many churrerías or street stalls that specialize in crafting these delicious treats. Watch as the churros are freshly prepared right before your eyes, ensuring their irresistible freshness and quality.

Whether you prefer them straight and long or coiled into a tempting spiral, Puebla’s churros are a delectable delight that should not be missed. Take a moment to savor each bite, enjoying the crispy exterior and the warm, doughy interior that melts in your mouth.

20. Visit the Magico Pueblo of Atlixco

Just a short distance away from Puebla, Atlixco offers a delightful escape from the bustling city and a chance to immerse yourself in its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. You’ll enjoy visiting this Pueblo Magico and spend an easy day trip away from the Puebla Metropolis to this charming town.

As you arrive in Atlixco, you’ll be greeted by its charming streets lined with colorful colonial buildings and adorned with blooming flowers. Take a leisurely stroll through the town’s central square, known as the Zocalo, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and soak in the lively atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Atlixco is its stunning botanical garden, Parque Floral. Explore this serene oasis filled with a kaleidoscope of vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and tranquil water features. Take a moment to relax and enjoy the picturesque surroundings or capture beautiful photographs to preserve the memories of your visit.

Atlixco is also renowned for its traditional handicrafts and local markets. Explore the bustling marketplaces, where you’ll find an array of artisanal products, including pottery, textiles, and handmade goods. It’s the perfect opportunity to take home unique souvenirs and support the local artisans.

Where to stay in Puebla

There are so many options to choose from accommodations staying in the heart of the city. For easy access, you should stay in the central district to be able to walk to all the main attractions easily in town. Check out the top reviewed places to stay in Puebla here for information and updated prices.

Quinta Real Puebla – a former convent converted into a hotel, this classic building is in the heart of the old town and beautiful with nice amenities, beautiful details and great customer service

Quinta Escencia Hotel – A classic colonial styled hotel with traditional architecture combined with modern day features, amenities and bedrooms

Hilton Garden Inn Puebla Qu – located in the business district, this modern hotel is clean, spacious and priced well for a Hilton property

What to eat in Puebla

As the birthplace of the popular Mole and other regional cuisine, the food here in Puebla is fantastic from the street food to more international and fine dining experiences. Check out these top places to eat in the videos below to great dining venues in the city.

Puebla, Mexico, is a culinary paradise with a rich and diverse gastronomy that tantalizes taste buds with unique flavors and traditional dishes. Here are some must-try foods when visiting Puebla:

Mole Poblano: Perhaps the most famous dish from Puebla, Mole Poblano is a delectable and complex sauce made with chilies, chocolate, nuts, spices, and other ingredients. It’s typically served over chicken or turkey and is a true culinary masterpiece.

Chiles en Nogada: A seasonal delight, Chiles en Nogada is a dish featuring roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, fruits, and spices, topped with a creamy walnut sauce and garnished with pomegranate seeds. It’s a patriotic dish often served during Mexican Independence Day celebrations.

Cemitas: A local specialty, Cemitas are hearty sandwiches made with sesame seed-topped bread filled with various ingredients such as milanesa (breaded meat), avocado, cheese, and chipotle sauce.

Tacos Arabes: A fusion of Lebanese and Mexican cuisine, Tacos Arabes consist of thinly sliced marinated pork or lamb, often served in pita-like flatbread with onions, parsley, and a squeeze of lime.

Tinga: This flavorful dish features shredded chicken cooked in a tomato and chipotle sauce, often served as a taco filling or on a tostada.

Chalupas: A Pueblan specialty, Chalupas are small tortillas topped with various ingredients like shredded meat, salsa, and cheese.

Chorizo Poblano: Puebla is known for its unique version of chorizo sausage, which is typically made with a mix of pork, chilies, and various spices. It’s used in many dishes and adds a distinct flavor to Pueblan cuisine.

Talavera Chocolate: Satisfy your sweet tooth with Talavera Chocolate, a traditional hot chocolate drink made with spices like cinnamon and vanilla, typically served with sweet bread.

Camotes: These sweet potato candies are a popular Pueblan treat, usually flavored with cinnamon or other spices, and make for a delightful souvenir to take home.

Aguas Frescas: Stay refreshed with Aguas Frescas, delicious fruit-based beverages available in various flavors like horchata (rice-based), jamaica (hibiscus flower), and tamarind.

** If you are looking for a fun guided tour, check out this Taste of Puebla tour here for more inspiration and booking your tour

Check out this DIY food tour of Puebla

Ultimate street food of Puebla

Brunch spots of Puebla

Organized Tours of Puebla and surrounding area

Check out these fantastic, guided tours of Puebla with a guide so you don’t have to deal with the logistics and information gathering yourself.

Experience this Cholulu tour with guide here for more inspiration and booking your tour.

Check out this Taste of Puebla tour here for more inspiration and booking your tour

Do this Puebla secrets tour here for a private tour of the tunnels, cathedral and other historic attractions.

Do this Puebla and Cholula tour here for an expansive and historic day tour of the region.

Visit the historic cities of Atlixco and Atlimeyaya here for a fun and cultural tour of these pueblo magicos.

How to get around Puebla, Mexico

Getting around Puebla, Mexico is relatively straightforward with several transportation options to choose from:

Walking: Puebla’s historic center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s charm.

Public Transportation: Puebla has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses and a light rail system called RUTA. Buses are the most common mode of public transportation, covering various routes throughout the city and its surrounding areas.

Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Puebla, and they can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands. It’s advisable to negotiate the fare or ensure that the driver uses the meter before starting the ride.

Uber or Ridesharing Services: Uber and other ridesharing services operate in Puebla, providing a convenient and often cost-effective transportation option. Simply download the app and request a ride using your smartphone.

Rental Car: If you prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle, rental cars are available in Puebla. However, keep in mind that traffic can be congested, and parking may be limited, especially in the historic center.

Bicycle: Puebla is becoming increasingly bike-friendly, with dedicated bicycle lanes and bike-sharing programs. Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and enjoy the scenic routes.

When using public transportation or taxis, it’s recommended to have small bills or change on hand, as drivers may not always have sufficient change. Additionally, be mindful of your personal belongings and ensure your safety by using reputable transportation services.

References:

Historic center of Puebla

History of Puebla

Popular events at Puebla

More inside tips to visiting Puebla, Mexico

If you are planning a trip soon to Pueble, here are more inside tips to enhance your visit to Puebla, Mexico:

Try Mole Poblano:** Puebla is the birthplace of mole, a complex sauce that combines chocolate, chilies, and spices. Sample this iconic dish at local eateries for a taste of Puebla’s culinary heritage.

Visit Talavera Workshops:** Puebla is renowned for its vibrant Talavera pottery. Take a tour of Talavera workshops to see artisans at work and pick up a beautifully handcrafted souvenir.

San Pedro Cholula Market:** Discover local flavors and artisanal goods at the bustling market in Cholula. It’s an excellent place to shop for spices, sweets, and handmade crafts.

Chiles en Nogada:** If visiting during August and September, don’t miss the opportunity to savor chiles en nogada, a seasonal dish featuring poblano peppers stuffed with meat and covered in walnut sauce.

Street Food Adventures:** Puebla’s streets are a treasure trove of street food stalls. Try local specialties like cemitas (sandwiches), tacos arabes, and chalupas from street vendors.

Day Trip to Atlixco:** Consider a day trip to Atlixco, a nearby town famous for its flower fields and the annual Festival de las Flores. It’s a visual delight.

Lucha Libre:** Experience the excitement of Mexican wrestling by attending a Lucha Libre match in Puebla. It’s a unique cultural spectacle.

Respect Local Customs:** Puebla is known for its conservative values. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly and be mindful of local customs.

Attend Local Festivals:** Check the local calendar for festivals and events happening during your visit. Puebla hosts numerous celebrations throughout the year, each offering a unique cultural experience.

Learn Some Spanish Phrases:** While many locals in Puebla speak some English, knowing a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture.

Puebla is a city rich in history, culture, and culinary delights. By embracing these inside tips, you’ll have a deeper and more rewarding experience as you explore this enchanting Mexican destination

Conclusion to top places to visit in Puebla, Mexico

In conclusion, Puebla is a hidden gem in Mexico that is definitely worth visiting. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking adventure, Puebla has it all with all the charming and historical details to enjoy. I hope you enjoyed reading this post and found it educational to showing you the best things to do and see around Puebla, Mexico.

If you enjoyed the post, please do share it with any of the social media buttons, or just share the links with your family or friends.

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Hi, I'm Noel, a writer and photographer based in San Francisco and Hawaii. I write about delicious food and wine indulgences, thoughtful luxury, and adventure travel. I share camera tips and techniques while exploring new and unusual places around the world. My site explores culture and history, art and architecture, world heritage sites, exotic locals, along with nature tours and natural landscapes worldwide. Quite a mixed bag of curiosities and quirky interests, just like myself.

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The Top Things To Do in Puebla City, Mexico

Northern England Writer

The city of Puebla de los Ángeles , in the state of the same name, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico , not least because of the delicious culinary heritage, ornate and magnificent colonial architecture, and ease of access from Mexico City. Even Unesco has recognised its cultural value. Here’s our guide to the unmissable sights and activities in Puebla City.

Explore a volcano – inside or out.

If you’re feeling adventurous, or prefer the path less traveled, may we recommend exploring a few volcanoes? Puebla has the twin volcanoes, Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl, as good as on the doorstep. While the latter is off limits to visitors, due to a 1994 eruption, the former still makes for a great day climbing or sightseeing. You could also venture within the Cuexcomate geyser.

Indulge your sweet tooth on Calle de los Dulces

Besides mole poblano and the seasonal delight that is chile en nogada , Puebla is also well known for producing delicious sugary treats. The best place to sample all the culinary specialties this city has to offer is the so-called Calle de los Dulces (Sweet Street) – also known as La Calle de Santa Clara. Make sure to try some of the region’s most representative candies – camote , muégano and las tortitas de Santa Clara .

Get a different perspective on the city

Once you’ve had your fill of browsing the artisanal stores that line the Puebla streets, you’ll be ready for a new perspective on the colonial city: a ride in the teleférico, or cable car. You’re suspended high above the city on the 2,231ft (680m) traverse, so you can see all the beauty in one go. If the thought of dangling from a wire doesn’t appeal, ride the Estrella de Puebla, a 262ft (80m) high ferris wheel that delivers views of Izta and Popo volcanoes as you circle slowly.

Admire unusual architecture

Puebla is known as one of the finest destinations for architecture in Mexico. While you’re here, seek out some of the slightly less conventionally decorated buildings – your Instagram followers will thank you. The first is Casa de los Muñecos, its facade clad in gingerbread-colored faience-style Talavera tiles. If that’s your bag, also take in the Casa del Alfeñique, covered in tiles that make the exterior look like gingham. For baroque fans, Capilla del Rosario is a must-see, as is the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús. For something more modern, head to the Ricardo Legorreta-designed La Purificadora.

Visit Museo Amparo

If you love art, don’t forget to visit Museo Amparo. It might be little, but within two colonial buildings is housed one of the finest collections of Mexican art in Latin America – and entry is free. Since it opened 30 years ago, the museum has acquired everything from pre-Hispanic art to modern-day pieces. Take a good look for the sculptures of rabbit-headed gods of scribe and the elaborate canvases of Catholic saints and aristos. While you’re here, check out the terrace too – you’ll get an unbeatable view over the city.

Try the local drinks

In Puebla they like their food – and they adore their libations. The city is the home of many fantastic drinks more or less exclusive to the state. You could sip a Mexican mojito, also known as a menyul – there are many varieties but essentially it’s a mint julep made with rum instead of bourbon. You might like a super-strong pasita, a much-loved liqueur made from a local, raisin-esque fruit. Also try the eggnog-like rompope.

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Try the ‘mole poblano’ for which Puebla is famous

You simply cannot visit Puebla without trying mole poblano . This rich, thick, chili-chocolate-flavour sauce, typically served with rice and meat, is the national dish, and where better to try it than in the place from which it originates? Of course, you could order at a restaurant, but why not buy the ingredients from Mercado el Carmen and make your own? If mole doesn’t sound up your street, then perhaps you need Puebla’s signature dish, the sandwich-like cemita, or how about a purple quesadilla from Mercado de Cholula?

Take photos of the murals in Xanenetla

Considered the youngest neighborhood in Puebla, Xanenetla is also one of the most vibrant and will give you a great culture hit if you’re more interested in street art than colonial architecture. Once written off as unsafe, it has a new lease of life thanks to street-art projects around the barrio, attracting plenty of arts-oriented travelers. Cobbled streets and around 55 colourful, full-wall sized murals await in this quirky corner of the city. It’s a great way to find out more on foot – the art addresses everything from the city’s past to its celebrated residents, as well as people’s hopes and fears.

Visit the Cerro de Loreto y Guadalupe

Many people think Cinco de Mayo is Mexican Independence Day, when in fact that is on 16 September. Still, one state in Mexico does celebrate 5 May and that state is Puebla. On 5 May 1862, Ignacio Zaragoza and his troops defeated the attacking French army on the Cerro de Loreto y Guadalupe, the hilltop home to the Loreto and Guadalupe forts. You can – and should – explore the old military stronghold, now home to a museum rather than an army. The view from the forts is spectacular, too, down over the city below.

Visit one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Mexico

Easy to find – as are most of the cathedrals in Mexico – right on the main square, the Roman Catholic Catedral de Puebla is essential viewing, with its façade covered in sculptures of saints including Rose of Lima, Teresa of Avila, Peter, Paul and Gabriel. Constructed in 1575 it has a remarkable tiled dome roof inspired by St Peter’s Basilica in Rome. You can wander the peaceful interior, which is lined with 14 tranquil side chapels. Prolific sculptor Manuel Tolsá, who worked in Spain and Mexico in the early 19th century, was the creative force behind the impressive principal altar.

Browse the antiques on Frog Alley

Callejón de los Sapos (Frog Alley), is a treasure trove of antiques dealers, artisanal vendors and furniture hawkers. At the weekends, it hosts a flea market, where you can pick up some Talavera pottery or some vintage movie paraphernalia to take home as a colourful souvenir of your time in Puebla.

Visit the Biblioteca Palafoxiana

No point in playing it down – this is one of the finest libraries in Mexico, if not North America. You’ll find the Biblioteca Palafoxiana tucked within Casa de la Cultura and even if you only consider yourself an amateur bibliophile you’ll treasure a visit. Founded in 1646, it has since amassed more than 41,000 works on its polished-wood bookcases, lining the place wall to wall and floor to ceiling. This was the first public library in Mexico and, many believe, in the Americas.

Museo Internacional del Barroco

With gold-filled churches full of Tenebrist art in the Caravaggio style, Puebla is the best place in Mexico to host a museum of the baroque. Housed in a spectacular white-concrete building by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Toyo Ito, the establishment focuses on the glittering ecclesiastical baroque, which reached a zenith in Latin America. Galleries are crammed with altarpieces and artifacts from the region, many of them displaying indigenous craftsmanship; classical music of the period plays throughout and interactive displays explain the context.

Parque Ecológico

Puebla’s not all colonial architecture, cobbled streets and glittering churches. The Parque Ecologico is a 143-acre (58 ha) public park in the northeastern suburbs. It’s a good place to settle in and cool off – pooled with lakes and home to extensive woodlands plus plenty of shady nooks. There’s a circular aviary (filled with tropical birds), cycle trails and running paths (with adjacent fitness machines), cafes and picnic areas. After dark the fountains are illuminated in rainbow colors.

Africam Safari

This safari park was founded in the 1970s by celebrity businessman Carlos Camacho Espiritu. With open-air enclosures, which mimic natural surrounds, and an active conservation programme, it is one of the more forward-looking zoos in Latin America. The collection is themed according to famous wilderness locations: Chitwan is home to Bengal tigers, Serengeti to African lions and Huasteca (based on the Gulf-Coast region of La Huasteca) exhibits North American animals including coyote, peccaries and black bears.

Alex Robinson contributed additional reporting to this article.

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Cholula Travel Guide: 12 Best Things To Do & See in the Ancient Pyramid Town

Home to the great pyramid.

Cholula is a charming ancient city close to Puebla that captivated us from the moment we arrived.

Even though you can easily visit Cholula on a day trip from Puebla , we knew we wanted to really soak up the atmosphere so we decided to stay for a week .

That meant we had time to work online, eat lots of amazing food and just enjoy hanging out in the small and cosy city.

One of the special reasons to visit Cholula is that the city is a magical town ( pueblo mágico ) – like Tepoztlán which is another famous pueblo mágico we also visited on this trip.

It’s a term used for specific towns and villages across Mexico that offer a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, historical significance and local traditions.

Cholula truly offers that and more – most noteworthy, its ancient Great Pyramid ( Tlachihualtépetl ) is the largest pyramid by base area in the world!

Apart from that (literally) huge draw, the city honestly isn’t packed with must-see attractions, but Cholula has a special vibe and you will find yourself not wanting to leave this lovely part of Mexico.

In this travel guide to Cholula, we cover the best things to do and see, where to stay, how long to stay, where to eat, how to get around and much more.

Where to stay in Cholula:

• Luxury: Estrella de Belem B&B and Spa – Cholula’s best place to stay is a 19th-century mansion repurposed as a luxury boutique hotel with just 6 rooms.
• Value for money: Santa Josefita B&B – Colourful design with clean, snug rooms at a great price just steps from the Zócalo.
• Budget: Majikal B&B – Stay for cheap in an entire furnished apartment with a kitchen.

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Cholula here .

Table of contents

Why visit Cholula?

How long to stay in cholula, what to do in cholula, where to stay in cholula, where to eat in cholula, how to get around cholula, how to get to cholula from puebla, when to visit cholula, tips for visiting cholula.

Whether you want to visit Cholula on a day trip from Puebla or stay for longer, we hope you get to experience this magical city.

Cholula dates back to around 1,000-500 B.C. and it makes it one of Mexico’s most historically important cities. With its extraordinary 2,500-3,000 years as a city, it is the oldest continually inhabited city in Mexico and most likely the oldest city in North America , too. Pretty cool, right?

If that doesn’t convince you alone, here are some of the best reasons to visit Cholula:

• The world’s largest pyramid: Marvel at the Great Pyramid of Cholula; the largest pyramid by base area in the world. You can also explore the fascinating tunnels underneath it and panoramic views from the picturesque church at its top.
• Charming streets: Stroll through Cholula’s quaint, colourful streets lined with colonial-era buildings, vibrant murals and inviting cafes frequented by university students.
• Relaxed atmosphere: Enjoy a laidback vibe that’s perfect for leisurely exploration, whether you’re relaxing at the main square or sipping coffee at a local café.
• Beautiful scenery: Take in breathtaking views of the Popocatépetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes and the picturesque landscapes surrounding Cholula, for example from the top of the pyramid.
• Pueblo mágico charm: Experience the magic town’s cultural and historic heritage being one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the Americas and get an authentic glimpse into Mexico’s rich traditions.

Where is Cholula?

Cholula is located in central Mexico, just a short drive northwest from Puebla City in the state of Puebla. Cholula is divided into two municipalities: San Pedro Cholula and San Andrés Cholula .

The city lies in a valley at 2,150 metres (7,050 feet) above sea level surrounded by scenic landscapes, agricultural land and the majestic volcanoes Popocatépetl and Iztaccihuatl.

Note: Google Maps doesn’t show the municipality of San Andreés Cholula as a part of “Cholula”, but rather just shows San Pedro Cholula.

The ideal length of stay in Cholula depends on your interests and how much time you have. You can visit Cholula on a day trip or even stay for several weeks. Here are some suggestions.

Visiting Cholula on a day trip

If you’re short on time or staying nearby in Puebla (35 minutes by car), a day trip to Cholula is perfect for getting a taste of the town.

In a single day, you can visit the Great Pyramid, see a few churches and enjoy a meal at one of the many great restaurants.

You can even visit on a day trip from Mexico City but the drive is around 2.5 hours so you might not get a full day of exploring.

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Spending 2-3 days in Cholula

For travellers with a bit more time, staying two or three days allows for a deeper experience of the city .

This is what we would recommend to most people.

That way, you will have plenty of time to explore the pyramid and the archaeological sites, hang out at the local square, visit a museum, see the many beautiful churches and, of course, sample lots of delicious Mexican food.

Staying in Cholula for 4-5 days or longer

While most of Cholula can be explored in a few days, we opted for a week-long stay ourselves.

If you are working remotely too, we can definitely recommend using Cholula as a base. As already mentioned, the laidback vibe is wonderful and there are so many incredible places to eat – especially if you are vegetarian or vegan .

Are you travelling for a long period of time (backpacking, full-time nomading or the like), the small city is a nice place for a little break to catch your breath and just be for a while.

Despite the compact size of the city, there are some great attractions and sights to explore.

Here are some of the best things to see and do in Cholula.

• Zona Arqueológica de Cholula – Visit the largest pyramid in the world
• The Cholula Tunnels – Explore ancient passageways
• Museo de Sitio de Cholula – Small museum near the pyramid
• Santuario Nuestra Señora de los Remedios – Church on top of the pyramid
• Museo Regional de San Andres Cholula – Art from the region’s cultural evolution
• Parque Soria Market – Souvenir shopping and street food
• Plaza de la Concordia (Zócalo) – The centre of Cholula
• Convento de San Gabriel Arcángel – Yellow church by the Zócalo
• Templo de Santa María Tonantzintla – A unique fusion of cultures
• San Francisco Acatepec – Baroque-style church with mosaics
• Francisco Peláez Roldan Ethnobotanical Garden
• Get sporty in Cholula

1. Zona Arqueológica de Cholula – Visit the largest pyramid in the world

It would be unfair to call the Great Pyramid of Cholula (also known as Pirámide Tepanapa or Tlachihualtépetl ) as great as the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt…

But, it is both the largest archaeological site of a pyramid in the New World as well as the largest pyramid by volume known to exist in the world today ( according to Wikipedia ).

It is, however, not as immediately impressive as the Giza pyramid complex in Egypt or some of the other great pyramids of Mexico like the Pyramid Of The Sun in Teotihuacán or El Castillo in Chichen Itza .

Why? Well, the Great Pyramid of Cholula is kind of overgrown and it’s difficult to grasp the full scale of it. We didn’t really “get it” until we saw the model at the museum.

Even though it looks more like a grassy hill than a typical pyramid , the Great Pyramid of Cholula is still a pretty awesome sight. Kind of like a massive ancient secret hiding in plain sight.

You might not get the perfect pyramid photo for your Instagram, but you’ll get to explore a unique piece of history that most people don’t even know exists!

Entrance is 90 Mexican pesos per person (2023) which also grants access to the small museum Museo de Sitio de Cholula.

2. The Cholula Tunnels – Explore ancient passageways

The tunnels of Cholula are a fascinating underground network at the city’s archaeological site.

More than 8 kilometres of tunnels have been excavated, of which around 800 metres are accessible to visitors. Here, you can get a glimpse into the complex engineering and architectural skills of pre-Hispanic civilisations.

You will gain insights into the pyramid’s construction and the various stages of its development over time. A very unique perspective on the archaeological excavations, for sure!

Unfortunately, the tunnels were closed temporarily when we visited the Zona Arqueológica de Cholula. Check the current status of the tunnels before planning your visit to the archaeological site, as they may occasionally be closed for maintenance, safety reasons or archaeological work.

Attention: It’s important to note that these narrow, enclosed spaces may not be suitable for everyone. Those who suffer from claustrophobia are advised to consider their comfort level before venturing into the tunnels as the confined environment can be challenging for some.

3. Museo de Sitio de Cholula – Small museum near the pyramid

Entrance to the small Museo de Sitio de Cholula is included in the ticket price for the archaeological site (the pyramid).

It’s located on the other side of the road, very close to the much bigger Museo Regional de San Andres Cholula (described below).

With its blend of archaeological treasures and educational displays , the Museo de Sitio de Cholula is interesting to stop by before or after exploring the pyramid complex.

4. Santuario Nuestra Señora de los Remedios – Church on top of the pyramid

In our opinion, one of the best things to see in Cholula is the striking church built atop the Great Pyramid of Cholula .

The 16th-century Mexican Catholic church Santuario Nuestra Señora de los Remedios (translated to Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies ) is truly a special blend of pre-Hispanic and colonial Spanish architecture.

With its bright yellow facade and ornate twin bell towers, it stands out against the blue Mexican sky and the lush green surroundings of the partially excavated pyramid beneath it.

What we loved the most was the panoramic views from the top . They are simply breathtaking! From here you get a sweeping vista of Cholula, Puebla and the surrounding landscape – including the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes on clear days.

Be prepared for a little workout though. ​​You’ll need to climb up the stairs to reach the church which will take around 10 minutes. The hike can be steep, but the views are worth it.

Consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy fewer crowds.

The church is free to visit.

5. Museo Regional de San Andres Cholula – Art from the region’s cultural evolution

From pre-Hispanic artefacts and colonial-era artwork to displays of modern-day traditions and customs, the Museo Regional de San Andres Cholula offers a comprehensive look at the many cultures that have shaped this fascinating part of Mexico.

You can look at pottery, sculptures and tools from ancient Cholula , which is pretty cool as Cholula is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the Americas. There is also a collection of traditional Talavera pottery – a famous craft in the region.

Most texts are in Spanish, but there is some English information available.

Tip: If you are very interested in the history (and have data on your phone), you can use the camera function in the Google Translate app for a live translation of the texts.

Entrance was 45 Mexican pesos per person in 2023 but is free for everyone on Sundays.

6. Parque Soria Market – Souvenir shopping and street food

For a fun stroll amidst market stalls full of handicrafts, souvenirs and street food , check out the market next to Parque Soria just west of the Pyramid.

While specific hours are hard to pin down, it seemed to start slowly during the day only to gain full traction around sunset when we visited Cholula.

7. Plaza de la Concordia (Zócalo) – The centre of Cholula

If you’re looking for a peaceful and picturesque spot to relax and take in the sights and sounds of Cholula , then look no further than the Plaza de la Concordia.

This charming public square (also known as the Zócalo ), located in the heart of the town, is a favourite gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

When we visited on a Sunday, there was a big market and a small theme park set up for kids to enjoy.

We also went inside both the Parroquia de San Pedro Cholula church and the larger complex of Convento de San Gabriel Arcángel .

8. Convento de San Gabriel Arcángel – Yellow church by the Zócalo

Cholula is famously known as the “City of Churches” – a title stemming from its incredible number of churches relative to its size.

When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, they aimed to convert the Indigenous population to Christianity by constructing churches over or near the old temples. This includes The San Gabriel Convent (Convento de San Gabriel Arcángel) , which was constructed on top of the ruins of a temple dedicated to Quetzalcóatl .

9. Templo de Santa María Tonantzintla – A unique fusion of cultures

Though a bit far from the centre of Cholula, the very colourful Templo de Santa María Tonantzintla (Church of Santa María Tonantzintla) might be worth the trip if you’re interested in checking out a unique blend of cultures.

The church is known for its stunning interior which is decorated with an explosion of indigenous baroque art known as “folk baroque”. It’s covered with intricate carvings, blending Catholic imagery with indigenous symbols. Quite special!

10. San Francisco Acatepec – Baroque-style church with mosaics

Located 20 minutes of walking from Templo de Santa María Tonantzintla, Templo de San Francisco Acatepec (Church of San Francisco Acatepec) was among the first churches established in the region with construction beginning in the mid-16th century and reaching completion in 1760.

The colonial-era building is a beautiful example of Mexican Baroque architecture . It’s particularly renowned for its stunning facade which is adorned with intricate Talavera mosaics and red brickwork.

11. Francisco Peláez Roldan Ethnobotanical Garden

Unfortunately, we only found out about the existence of the Francisco Peláez Roldan Ethnobotanical Garden after our time in Cholula.

But it looks like a pretty nice place to chill out for a little while – and it’s free to visit!

12. Get sporty in Cholula

Cholula is a sporty town, and you can partake in several ways.

The huge open space just east of the Pyramid is a great place to get active. Alex especially enjoyed the running track as well as the adjacent outdoor gym – both publicly available.

For more advanced equipment, head to one of Cholula’s fitness centres. We can vouch for Infitness Zona .

If you want to enjoy a longer hike, trail run or even a mountain bike ride, check out the almost 200-metre-high hill of Cerro Zapotecas located around 4 kilometres northwest of the Great Pyramid.

Cholula is split into two charming areas: San Andrés Cholula and San Pedro Cholula. But don’t worry too much about picking one over the other.

The real secret to a great stay in Cholula is to find a spot near the Great Pyramid of Cholula , right where the two areas meet (which is exactly what we did ourselves).

If you’re on the San Andrés side – that’s to the west – you’ll be close to the Zócalo, which is always a hub of activity. Over on the San Pedro side to the east, you’ve got the impressive pyramid and streets that seem to buzz with energy day and night.

In other words, staying near the Pyramid puts you in a sweet spot to explore both sides of Cholula without long walks. You’ll be perfectly placed to sample amazing food, soak up the city’s rich culture and get a real feel for what makes Cholula special.

The best hotels in Cholula:

The best luxury hotels in cholula.

• Estrella de Belem B&B and Spa – Cholula’s best place to stay is a 19th-century mansion repurposed as a luxury boutique hotel with just 6 rooms.
• Hotel Tila – Stylish rooms, an outdoor pool and a rooftop terrace with pyramid views define this modern hotel.
• Casa Eva Hotel Boutique & Spa – A cosy boutique hotel with unique decor and a relaxing courtyard located between the Zócalo and the pyramid.

Search for the best luxury hotels in Cholula here .

The best midrange/value for money hotels in Cholula

• Santa Josefita B&B – Colourful design with clean, snug rooms at a great price just steps from the Zócalo.
• Villas Arqueologicas Cholula – Get a taste of the Mexican hacienda life right next to Cholula’s Great Pyramid.
• Quinta Luna – One of Cholula’s most beautiful hotels, and it’s not even that expensive.

Search for the best midrange/value for money hotels in Cholula here .

The best budget hotels in Cholula

• Majikal B&B – Stay for cheap in an entire furnished apartment with a kitchen.
• Hostal Hoja Santa – Simple rooms with ensuite bathrooms at a great price, but don’t expect much in terms of facilities.

Search for the best budget hotels in Cholula here .

We were pleasantly surprised by how many small, cute places to eat there were in Cholula. During our week in the city, we tried quite a few of them.

Here are our favourite restaurants and cafés in Cholula.

La Colmena is a cosy spot with a big, mostly vegan menu featuring homemade pasta, hearty burgers and delicious desserts.

We loved the ravioli with almond sauce and the chickpea burger with avocado, though the sweet potato fries were more like chips.

Desserts like cinnamon rolls were excellent, but the brownie was a bit dry. The pancakes and raw mocha avocado cake are also worth trying.

We stayed in an apartment above this restaurant and of course, had to visit as they had vegan sushi options!

Both the special rolls made with rice paper and the crunchy, crispy ones were fantastic. Perhaps not Japanese approved, but sooo good and sinful.

An espresso bar opposite Gru Grú perfect for your caffeine fix.

El taco loco vegano

El Taco Loco Vegano is a simple Mexican spot with a few tables right by the street.

We tried the torta Cubana, filled with various vegan meats, avocado, tomato and lettuce, as well as a gringa with vegan cheese and cueritos, complemented by excellent guacamole .

9 ó 6 Comida Vegana

For an affordable breakfast , 9 ó 6 Comida Vegana is the place to go.

They serve Mexican-style tortas, enchiladas, molletes and other dishes with vegan meat options.

Our breakfast included a torta with vegan sausages, lettuce, avocado, tomato and vegan cheese, a chickpea omelette with vegan cheese, and extra hashbrowns. A simple place, but really good value.

Cholula is a relatively small and walkable city , making it easily explored on foot. The central area is flat, and most of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Also, most streets don’t see much traffic.

For longer distances or if you prefer not to walk, Cholula has a few public transport options, including buses and combis (shared minibuses). These are inexpensive but may not always be the most convenient as routes can be confusing, especially to non-Spanish speakers.

We solely got around by walking ourselves.

Private transport , such as taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber, is readily available and affordable. This is a good option for getting around quickly or travelling to nearby areas like Puebla.

Unless you are arriving from a nearby city, you will usually have to go to Puebla City before venturing on to Cholula.

Getting to Cholula from Puebla City is luckily relatively straightforward and can be done in several ways. Usually, it takes around 30 minutes of driving (depending on traffic and the specific route).

By bus or minivan

Regular bus services run between Puebla City and Cholula. You can catch a bus from the Puebla bus terminals or major transport hubs.

Another affordable option is with the local colectivos (shared minivans).

Unless you’re a seasoned pro using Mexico’s local public transport systems, it’s advisable to ask for help from a local.

By Uber, Cabify, taxi or the like

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are easy to catch from Puebla City and offer a quick and direct trip to Cholula.

This is probably the most convenient way to travel to Cholula from Puebla and we opted for this ourselves since we had a lot of luggage and Victoria was pregnant.

In 2023, we paid 130 pesos (~ 6.26 EUR / 6.83 USD) from central Puebla to Cholula but the price depends on the time of day, availability of drivers etc.

The ride from central Puebla City took just 20-30 minutes.

Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,200 meters above sea level , Cholula experiences a temperate climate year-round.

The weather in Cholula is generally mild , with daytime temperatures typically ranging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Evenings and nights can be noticeably cooler, especially in winter months – with some nights not far from freezing.

Cholula’s rainy season extends from June to October. Expect afternoon showers or thunderstorms, so packing a light rain jacket or umbrella is advisable.

November to May is the dry season , characterised by lower humidity and minimal rainfall. This is a great time to visit if you prefer sunny, dry weather – although be aware that winters can get cold after sunset.

Given Cholula’s high altitude, the sun can be intense even on cooler days. Sun protection is essential year-round – don’t forget to bring and use sunscreen, hat and sunglasses when exploring outdoor sites like the Great Pyramid.

• Bring your pesos: Some restaurants and most market stalls only take cash.
• ¿Habla inglés? While many people in tourist areas speak some English in Mexico, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
• Use Google Translate: If you have data on your phone, you can use the camera function to translate menus, signs or the like live. The microphone function is useful if you’re communicating with locals that can’t speak English.
• Respect local customs: Although Cholula is a rather progressive town, Mexico still has many traditional cultural practices; be mindful and respectful of local customs and traditions.
• Layer up: At 2,200 metres above sea level, Cholula can be warm during the day and cooler in the evenings, so bring layers to stay comfortable.
• Stay hydrated: The high altitude can lead to quicker dehydration. Carry a water bottle and drink regularly, especially when walking or during warmer months.

What to bring to Cholula

• Travel insurance (adlink) . Never travel without it.
• A good camera – here’s a guide to the gear we use .
• Sunscreen (adlink) . The UV index in Cholula is high!
• Good walking shoes .
• Swimwear if you plan to swim in a hotel pool.
• Water and snacks .
• Mexican pesos . Cash are still preferred many places.

Sustainable travel tips

To minimise your impact during your visit, follow these guidelines:

• Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle.
• Avoid single-use plastics , including straws.
• Dispose of waste properly .
• Take only photos, leave only footprints . Let everything stay in its natural place.
• Be considerate of other visitors .
• Respect wildlife.

Thanks for reading

Thanks for getting all the way to the end!

We hope this Cholula guide has been useful. What do you think about the Mexican town?

If you’ve been to Cholula it would be awesome to hear your best tips in the comments.

If you haven’t been yet, please don’t hesitate to ask us anything. We’re happy to help!

Our favourite travel resources:

• Booking.com for cheap hotels.
• Momondo for the best flight deals.
• SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller . All three compared here .

Our camera gear:

• Panasonic GH5 . Used for all of our photos and videos.
• DJI Mavic 2 Pro . Best drone out there!
• Sirui Tripod . Lightweight and strong.
• See all of our camera gear here .

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