tourist attractions in puebla mexico

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

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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

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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.

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26 Things to do in Puebla Mexico: Your 2024 Insider’s Guide

There are plenty of things to do in Puebla to keep you occupied for a long weekend. Most people tend to visit Puebla on a day trip from Mexico City.  

However, if your schedule allows, the city is definitely deserved several days or even a week of your time. 

Table of Contents

26 Things to Do in Puebla Mexico in 2024

The gorgeous city of Puebla de Zaragoza shares its name with the state it occupies (Puebla). 

It was founded by the Spanish in 1531 in an area called Cuetlaxcoapan meaning “where serpents change their skin”. At that time, it was named ¨the City of Angels¨ and created to form a midway point between the commercial route from Mexico City to the port of Veracruz. 

The city thrived and became one of the richest and most important in ¨New Spain¨. Many of the buildings here have been constructed in the Baroque style and little has changed since the 16th and 17th centuries. 

Puebla city’s historic center was given UNESCO World Heritage status in 1987. It feels very European in parts and has a character that is very different from other parts of Mexico. 

When choosing where to stay in Puebla, opting to base yourself in the historic center and close to the Zocalo will place you close to the main Puebla attractions and things to do in Puebla.  

Visit the Palafoxiana Library

The Biblioteca Palafoxiana in Puebla is the oldest library in the Americas as well as one of the most beautiful. It dates back to 1565 and looks like something from a movie set. 

Its bookshelves and winding staircases are made from the finest carved cedar, ayacahuite pine, and coloyote wood. Many of the books here are centuries old.

Their dusty tomes sit behind protective glass so that you cannot touch them. They are often leather-bound with ornate golden detailing and elaborate handwriting. 

Admission to Palafoxiana Library is 43 pesos per person with concessions available for the elderly, students, and teachers. If you are not particularly interested in history or literature, you could arguably bypass this Puebla attraction. 

The library is small and can be explored in less than 10 minutes. However equally, it sits in a beautiful traditional building with an arched courtyard showcasing local art pieces. 

It is a UNESCO-protected site that helps you to gain a complete picture of the history of the city. 

Sip coffee and indulge in tapas in the Zocalo 

The central Square in Mexican cities is known as the Zocalo and Puebla´s is a beautiful one. It is framed by the 18th-century Puebla cathedral and has a small Park with scenic walking trails as its center. 

Various coffee shops and restaurants encircle the square beneath porticoed walkways. Here, a well-heeled crowd sips freshly brewed coffee and tucks into tapas bites and Poblano delicacies as they watch the world go by.

This area feels very European and is quite unlike anywhere else you will find in Mexico. Despite their central location, the restaurants here are not tourist traps. 

They serve exquisite Poblano Cuisine and other traditional Mexican dishes . In particular, you may want to check out Barra Castiza Zócalo (Av, C. 16 de Septiembre 111).

Their chicken sandwiches with homemade mole a second to none. Equally delicious are their tapas entrees. 

For instance, the patatats bravas and the patatas aioli. 

Take a walking tour of the city 

Opting to take a walking tour is a great way to get your bearings when visiting somewhere for the first time. The same rings true exploring for Puebla. 

Exploring Puebla on a guided tour with a local means that you gain more information and context on the various sites and buildings that you see. You will discover neighborhoods, markets, and restaurants that you perhaps would not otherwise find independently. 

Better yet? Exploring with a local means that you have a Puebla expert on hand to ask for recommendations on the best things to do in pueblo, where to go for drinks, where to eat, and where to hang out. 

Recommended Puebla tours for 202 4 and beyond

Many reputable local tool companies operate in Puebla. A selection of excellent guided tours is detailed below for your consideration.

Reserve your place online in advance to avoid disappointment. 

• Puebla: Cholula and Atlixco private tour with food tastings
• Puebla: Full-day Malinche summit experience
• From Mexico City: Puebla, Cholula and Tonantzintla Day trip
• From Mexico City: Puebla and Cholula day trip

Try raisin at La Pasita 

Several traditional Mexican drinks are native to Puebla. One of the most interesting that you should be sure to try while you are in town is a drink called raisin. 

As the name suggests, the liquor is made of raisins. It is served in a caballito (tequila glass), before a chunk of goat cheese and a raisin are added to the drink. 

Many balls and restaurants around Puebla serve raisin. However, for the quintessential Puebla experience, you should sample the beverage in the place where it was invented.

That place is a tiny, ramshackle bar the size of someone’s living room named La Pasita.

La Pasita (Av 5 Ote 602) Is one of the oldest and best-loved cantinas in Puebla. It was first opened in 1916 by Emilio Contreras Aicardo. 

Today, his son manages the bar. There are no seats inside and patrons stand and sip raisin liquor and other local beverages in the tiny space decorated with vintage posters and decor. 

Shop for traditional candies at Calle de los dulces 

Calle de los dulces is a great place to shop for Mexican souvenirs in Puebla. It was here where the very first candy store in the city opened In 1892.

The store was called La Gran Fama and was opened by a local lady named Victoria Ortiz. (It still exists and operates to this day!) 

As others saw the success of La Gran Fama, they started to follow suit and open candy shops nearby.

Mexican candy makes a great gift either for yourself or for your friends and family back home. In these stores, you will find prepackaged gift boxes of candies and chocolates, as well as individual treats that you can select yourself in order to create a gift box or hamper.

Jamoncillo de leche candies are particularly delicious. This is essentially Mexican milk fudge.

It shares some similarities in taste and consistency with British fudge. It is made with milk, brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract.

Try Puebla sweet potato candies (Los Camotes)

Another Mexican candy that is typical in the region of Puebla is made from sweet potatoes(camotes). You’ll find little boxes of long, soft, rectangular candies made with sweet potatoes sold in all of the city’s sweet shops. 

Flavorings are then added. Vanilla, strawberry, and orange flavor camote candies are particularly popular.

It is said that this type of Puebla candy was invented as part of a prank. A child was playing in a nunnery when she saw that one of the nuns had put a pot ready for cooking close to the fire. 

She took one of the sweet potatoes, mashed it, beat it with sugar, and shaped it before tossing it into the pot to boil. To her surprise, the nun wasn’t angry or horrified. 

Instead, she loved the sweet potato candy. From there, one of Puebla’s most famous candies was born. 

Search for vibrant street art 

The street art found in Puebla is arguably some of the best in Mexico. Large murals adorn the facades of storefronts and entire walls and alleyways.

Some of the best pieces have been created by local and nationally adored artists close to the Barrio del Artista, La Luz, El Alto neighborhoods, and Xonaca.

They depict scenes of local life and indigenous groups, and notable periods of Mexican history (e.g. the 20th-century Mexican revolution). 

Some notable pieces to look out for and their locations are detailed below for your reference. A nice way to spend a morning is to start in the Barrio del Artista and set out on a self-guided street art walking tour, stopping for Poblano street food and Mexican coffee here and there as you go. 

Try the local mole Poblano 

Poblano cuisine is known for being among the best in Mexico, and many of the dishes found here are simply not found elsewhere. (Indeed, Mexican food is far more than just tacos, tortillas, and burritos and the local dishes vary from region to region. For instance, Yucatecan food is completely different from Puebla food , as in turn, the meat-focused cuisine of Sinaloa and Northern Mexico, and the specialties of Jalisco). 

Mole is one of the most famous Puebla specialties. Even if you have tried mole elsewhere in Mexico, it doesn’t really compare to mole from Puebla. So you should definitely sample the salsa in its native homeland. 

This dense, rich chocolatey sauce is commonly served with chicken. But as far as Puebla locals are concerned, it goes with just about anything. 

The sauce is typically made with chocolate, dried nuts, chilis, seeds, and spices. It has a unique taste that is equal parts bitter, sweet, and tangy. It sounds questionable and it’s an acquired taste for sure but you may be surprised by how much you enjoy it. 

Nobody is certain as to precisely who created the salsa and when. A popular running theory is that it was invented by Catholic nuns working at the Santa Rosa convent in Puebla in the 17th century. 

An Archbishop was visiting the nunnery for dinner and the nuns were frantic and worried as they didn’t know what to cook. They randomly threw ingredients together in a pan based on what they had available in the pantry.  

The result was mole. Fortunately, the Archbishop loved it. 

Try some chalupas 

Chalupas are a simple yet tremendously flavorful dish found in Puebla. The dish consists of small, bite-sized tortillas that are lightly fried and then topped with green and red tomato salsas. 

The red salsa is made from fresh tomatoes, whereas the green salsa is made from the tomatoś cousin: tomatillos or ¨husk¨ tomatoes. They have a somewhat more tangy and sour taste than their red counterparts. 

Shredded meat (usually chicken or beef) is then added to the top. When you order a plate of chalupas, you will be given 4-6 of them that can be enjoyed as an entree to share or as a light bite. 

You will find these virtually everywhere you go in Puebla and there is arguably no such thing as a bad Poblano chalupa. 

Spend a day in Cholula 

One of the best day trips that you can take from Puebla is to the nearby Pueblo magico of Cholula. The town is known for its numerous Catholic churches as well as the Cholula archaeological site which is actually the largest pyramid by volume in the world.

Cholula was established between 800 and 200 BC and is considered the oldest continuously inhabited city in Mexico. The yellow Nuestra Señora de los Remedios Church sits at the top of the Cholula pyramid and offers spectacular panoramic views over the area.

Another notable church to look out for is the Royal Chapel of Naturals (La Capilla Real o de Naturales). The church, built in 1540 was built based on the design influence of Arab mosques. 

It has seven naves and 49 domes and it is possible to walk on the rooftop, capturing incredible photos of the unique architecture. On a clear day, you can see out to the Popocatépetl volcano from the rooftops of Puebla.  

Sample chile en nogada 

Chile en nogada is a beloved Mexican dish that hails from the Puebla region. It is commonly enjoyed throughout the country during Mexican Independence Day (16th September).

However, it can be found in the restaurants of Puebla all year round. To make the dish, a large green poblano chili is cut in half and then filled with picadillo and a creamy walnut sauce known as nogada. 

It is then topped with fresh pomegranate and chopped parsley. The end product is a flavourful medley in the colors of the Mexican flag! 

Visit the Puebla Cathedral

The Puebla cathedral is the piece de resistance of the Puebla Zocalo. The cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, dates back to 1575. 

It has been built in blacksmith style with Renaissance facades and baroque interiors. It is widely regarded as being one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the country.

Admire the view of the city from the fuertes 

The sunbleached remnants of two old fortresses can still be found in the northern part of Puebla. They sit on the top of Acueyametepec hill. 

Originally, It was two churches that stood here. However, due to ongoing conflict with the French, the buildings were militarized and repurposed and became the forts of Loreto and Guadalupe. A lot of fighting took place here during the second French intervention in Mexico. 

Today, both of the fortresses have been converted into museums. They tell the story of  Mexico’s battle against the French on the 5th of May In 1862. 

The exhibits contain various interesting artifacts related to the battle and the lead-up to it. Everything from military uniforms, weaponry, letters, and important documents can be found in the museums. 

There is also an exhibition dedicated to the life and accomplishments of Benito Juarez, the first president of Mexico who protected his country against the French. 

Browse through Mercado El Parian 

There are several mikados scattered throughout the city of Puebla. One of the most notable is the Parian which sits close to the artist’s quarter. 

The Parian market Dates back to 1930 and specializes in handicrafts and is a great place to buy unique Goods from local artisans. 

Everything from Talavera pottery, hand-stitched garments and accessories, and oil paintings and art pieces can be found at the market. the word Parian comes from the Philippine word market. Several centuries ago, almost every Spanish imperial city with an important Commerce Center had a market with this name.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

Many people think that Cinco de Mayo is Mexican Independence Day but that isn’t true. Mexican Independence Day is celebrated in September every year and Cinco de Mayo is only really celebrated in Puebla. 

The holiday exists to celebrate Mexico’s victory over the French in the Battle of Puebla that took place in 1862.

Interestingly, Cinco de Mayo has become more of a big deal in the United States than it is in Mexico. It has been largely commercialized by American beer companies and now, every year, the holiday exists as a celebration of Mexican traditions and culture. 

Being in Puebla for the Cinco de Mayo celebrations is a magical experience. a parade (desfile) filled with floats makes its way through the streets of downtown Puebla. The military marches through the streets as do marching bands, drummers, and school children.  

Visit the Musuem of the Revoultion

The Museo De la Revolucion is one of the most interesting museums that you can visit in Puebla. The museum tells the story of the 1915 Mexican War of Independence against the Spanish. 

Many believe that it was here where the first actions that led to the start of the Revolution took place. The house was a gift from Manuel Sevilla to his wife Natalia Serdan Alatriste Aquiles and her siblings. 

The family was part of the anti-re-electionist movement led by Francisco I. Madero, who called for an armed uprising against Porfirio Díaz. On November 18th, 1910, A police raid was ordered on the house based on a claim that the residents kept illegal guns inside. 

The chief of the police was killed, and a gunfight broke out that lasted for more than 3 hours and killed more than 15 people who were involved with the anti-reelection movement. 

Many people believe that the Mexican Revolution started with this event. The museum is essentially a living museum that depicts what the building would have looked like when the Serdan Brothers lived here.

The rooms are decorated with original furnishings and some have been made into exhibition halls that tell the story of the uprising and the events leading up to the Mexican Revolution.

Ride the Star of Puebla Ferris wheel 

The Puebla Ferris wheel (Estrella de Puebla) is a tourist attraction that sits just south of Rio Atoyak in central Puebla. The Ferris wheel is 80m high and holds the Guinness World Record for being the world’s largest portable Ferris wheel.

From the top, you can admire the view over the city of Puebla, with the volcanoes of Popocatéptl and Iztaccíhuatl in the distance. Riding the Ferris wheel is particularly enjoyable at sunset.

A simple admission ticket is 40 pesos per person. However, a transport ticket is also available which is 110 pesos per person, and includes a transfer from the Zocalo to the Ferris wheel.

Meander around the artist’s quarter 

The artist’s quarter (Barrio del Artista) is a cobbled, tree-lined Promenade in the center of Puebla. The azulejo-tiled buildings here reveal artists’ Studios where local painters and sculptors create their artwork in full view of the public. 

There are a lot of displays with paintings and handicrafts for sale and many quaint cafes where you can while away an afternoon with a coffee or two. The artist’s quarter sits adjacent to the El Parian marketplace. 

The area boomed in the 1930s and 40s following the opening of this marketplace. According to local legends, renowned artist José Márquez Figueroa challenged his students to create a bustling art space and bohemian community here

Take photos at the Callejon de los Sapos

The Callejon de los Sapos (alley of the toads) is one of the most picturesque streets in Puebla Mexico. The multicolored houses here are a photographer’s dream. 

Many of these colorful structures have been converted into cafes, antique stores, and artists’ workshops. It is said that the street takes its name from the various floods that happened in this area in colonial times that caused 6th street to become overrun with toads. 

Fortunately today, the only sign of toads is a water fountain with ornate toad sculptures that sits in the center of Plazuela de los Sapos. Every morning, street vendors venture to the street to sell their wares. 

The marketplace is particularly lively on Sunday mornings. Here, you can find everything in the ramshackle stores from antiques, to vintage furnishings, second-hand books, and dusty tomes in a variety of languages, and oil paintings. 

Even if you are not looking to buy anything, it is worth stopping by for the people-watching opportunity alone. 

Visit the Museo Amparo

If you only have time to visit one Museum during your time in Pueblo or you do not consider yourself a museum person, be sure to stop by the Amparo Museum ( C. 2 Sur 708, Centro). This small Museum in the historic center was created in honor of Amparo Rugarcía de Espinosa. 

Rugarcía was the wife of the Mexican banker and philanthropist Manuel Espinosa Yglesias. The museum exhibits are organized in chronological order and showcase numerous artifacts that have been recovered from the state of Puebla. 

Everything from historic artifacts from the prehispanic era to paintings and drawings by various Mexican artists over the centuries can be found within the museum.

Sample local street food delicacies at the Mercado de Sabores 

The Mercado de Sabores (market of flavors) is a food market that sits at v. 4 Pte. 1104, Historians just north of the main square in Puebla. The street vendors here sell all of Puebla’s classic dishes. 

For instance, tacos arabes, chiles en nogada, cemitas and pelonas. It is popular among locals and tourists alike. 

You can also buy gastro products to take home here. For instance, jars of homemade mole and salsas, as well as local cheeses and coffees. 

Visit Atlixco Pueblo Magico 

Atlixco is a charming pueblo magico that sits in the foothills of the Popocatépetl volcano. It is known for growing flowers (and indeed, fresh, fragrant flowers adorn every wall, storefront, and alleyway). 

Atlixco comes from Nahuatl and means ¨place of the valley of water”. The city is well worth visiting on a day trip and is filled with brightly colored colonial buildings and baroque-style churches. 

Almost every wall and alleyway is filled with vibrant street art created by local artists. There are several gorgeous boutique hotels in this Mexican city such as Casa Flora Atlixco which offer unparalleled views over Popocatépetl.  

Be sure to climb Cerro de San Miguel, stopping to see the Danzantes del Atlixcayotl mural staircase en route and admiring the views as you go. Visit the Jardin Magico botanical garden and then go for an evening drink or a coffee at the Hacienda Santo Cristo. 

Go hiking in the foothills of Popocatépetl 

Popocatépetl Is the name of an active supervolcano that sits in Puebla state. It is the largest volcano in Mexico and sits 72 km southeast of Mexico City and 43 km from Puebla respectively. 

There are several hiking trails that weave through the gorgeous woodlands in the foothills of the volcano. You are not permitted to climb Popocatépetl. However, you can hike with a licensed mountain guide close to the summit of Iztaccíhuatl. 

One of the most famous hiking trails here is known as the route of the volcanic rabbit . This species of rabbit known as a teporingo is endangered and can only be seen in certain parts of Latin America, including along this trail. 

The Alpine Way is another popular route. This hiking trail takes you to the La Jolla lookout point which offers unparalleled views over Iztaccíhuatl. 

Many of the less frequented trails are also worth your attention and lead past farmlands and hidden waterfalls.

Admire the beautiful churches

There are 288 parishes in Puebla City, with each one seemingly more beautiful than the last. (That is not exactly one for each day of the year but thereabouts!). 

One great way to explore the city and uncover hidden neighborhoods is to simply wander around with no set plan and follow Google Maps from one church to another. One of the most unique Puebla churches is the red and white Iglesia de Santa Ines. 

The convent is dedicated to Santa Ines del Monte Pulciano. It dates back to 1626 and at that time it was the 7th female Convent to be founded in the city.

Both Creole and Spanish maidens would live inside the complex.

The Interiors of the convent are just as spectacular as the exterior although the entrance gate is often closed. Inside, the walls are filled with colorful paintings in frescoes that depict the life of the nuns who once lived inside Santa Ines.

The church was abandoned during the siege of Puebla which took place in 1863. Like many other religious buildings, it was used as barracks against the French.

Sadly it was partially destroyed. there is a small sculpture inside the church which is known as El Nino Prodigio . Local legend has it but when the temple was attacked by soldiers in 1857, the little sculpture covered its ears and closed its eyes and it remains that way to this day.

Admire the tilework on the Iglesia de Guadalupe

Another gorgeous Church to add to your radar in Puebla is the Iglesia de Guadalupe. This church is a little on the outskirts of town close to the Mercado de Sabores. 

It is distinguishable by its colorful blue and white Talavera tiles that decorate its facade. There are also interesting motifs, angels, and figures on the front of the church. 

Learn about Talavera pottery at the Tile Museum

Talavera pottery is one of several handicrafts that Puebla city is famous for. Vases, plates, tableware, and decorative ceramics are often created in the distinguishable blue and white Talavera style.

This decorative style originated in Spain. However, When the Spanish arrived, Pueblo already had a deep-seated tradition of producing ceramics largely due to the excellent clay that they had available.

So, the Talavera pottery that you can buy in the region today is a mixture of Spanish and Mexican influences.

If you are interested in purchasing Talavera Potter as a gift, there are several workshops and galleries that you should look out for. Talavera de la Luz (Av. Don Juan de Palafox and. Mendoza) is one place to add to your radar. 

Also worth your time is Uriarte Talavera (Av. 4 Pte. 911), the largest Talavera manufacturer in the world founded in 1824. You may also want to stop by the Patio de los Azulejos (tiled courtyard). 

This 17th-century building was originally part of the architectural complex of the Temple of Nuestra Señora de la Concordia. It is distinguishable by its colorful tiled walls. 

This is a great spot for photos and there is seldom anybody here. Today, the historic building contains a museum that is free to enter and tells the history of Talavera handicrafts. 

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Puebla

There are plenty of things to do in Puebla to warrant spending at least 2-3 days here. If you want to explore more of the surrounding area, go hiking, and visit the nearby pueblo magicos, you may even want to spend as much as a week in the region.

Puebla is a safe place to visit, provided that you take precautions . Both Puebla City and Puebla state are well worth visiting – whether on a dedicated weekend break or as a day trip from Mexico City.

If this is your first time traveling to Mexico, you may also enjoy reading these facts about Mexico.

Have a wonderful time exploring Mexico! Buen Viaje! Melissa xo

Melissa Douglas

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25 Awesome Things To Do in Puebla, Mexico

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Wondering what are the best things to do in Puebla on your visit this year? You’re in the right place!

Hello! I am Isabella and I live in Mexico. I spend 15 days in Puebla wandering around and exploring the colorful city, home to the popular Mole poblano and Chile en Nogada, the Mexican iconic dish.

In this post, I will tell you all the things you must do in Puebla and why it’s one of the most underrated destinations in Mexico.

After reading this post I hope you will be in love with Puebla like I am and will look forward to visiting it.

INSIDER TIP – Puebla is only about an hour from Mexico City, and you can get from Mexico City to Puebla it’s easy to get to by car, ADO bus, or taxi. It’s considered more of a local city, and even though it’s the fourth largest city in Mexico, it feels much more low-key than other bustling cities. Puebla to Oaxaca is almost 5 hours instead.

Let’s go over the best things to do in Puebla, Mexico, to help you plan your trip.

The Best Things To Do in Puebla Mexico

1. spend some time in the zócalo de puebla.

The Zócalo de Puebla, or Puebla’s Historic City Centre, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Latin America’s most well-preserved colonial cities.

The center square, often called “the Zócalo, ” is centered around the Puebla Cathedral.

Around the square are restaurants, bars, cafes, and museums. And on the busy streets branching off the city center, you’ll find streets filled with street food carts, local shops, artisanal gifts, and much more.

The park in the center is also lively, with local weekend performances, children playing around, and tourists taking photos.

It’s a great place to spend an afternoon full of life and excitement, and it’s truly the city’s central hub.

2. Wander around Mercado El Parian

Mercado El Parian (El Parian Market) is located on the southeast corner of Puebla’s Zócalo. It’s one of the top tourist attractions in Puebla and a must-do for anyone in this beautiful city.

Mercado El Parian is a traditional, artisanal market with over 100 stalls of the finest handicrafts at an excellent price.

The market first opened in 1760, where it was a bustling place for traders, travelers, and locals alike. It began to falter and lose popularity with the rise of the railroad in Mexico. But in 1961, it was revamped as a handcrafts market and has remained popular.

You can find almost anything here, including jewelry, pottery, textiles, bags, souvenirs, and woodcrafts.

This is an excellent place in Puebla for souvenir shopping, but also a fun place to visit to admire the beauty of the European-influenced architecture around the Zócalo and the many talents of the local people.

3. Tuneles De Puebla

Tuneles De Puebla (Puebla Tunnels) are a system of tunnels under the city, believed to run for over 10 km (6.2 miles) and date back to over 500 years ago.

These tunnels were long considered an urban legend and weren’t unearthed until 2014, and portions opened to the public in 2016.

You can now walk through a small piece of the tunnels, which are now lined with significant memorabilia from the war of Mexican liberation between Mexico and France.

The tunnels begin at the historic center of Puebla and run to the end of Loreto Fort, where the Cinco de Mayo battle happened.

The tunnels represent an essential part of Mexican history and Puebla history. It’s a great learning experience and a must-do activity for history buffs or tourists who wish to understand more about the city they’re exploring.

4. Templo de Santo Domingo – Capilla Del Rosario

Templo de Santo Domingo (Convent Church of Santo Domingo) is a large temple in Puebla. Capilla Del Rosario (Rosary Chapel) is attached to the temple.

The Santo Domingo Church dates back to the 1500s, and the Rosary Chapel was added between 1650 and 1690. It’s the first chapel in Mexico dedicated to the Lady of Rosary.

The outside of the church is rather unimpressive, but the Rosary Chapel is something else. The inside is filled with beautiful paintings, sculptures, small shrines, and gold.

Most surfaces are covered with gold leaf; when the light shines on it from above, it’s one of the most magnificent sites.

Regardless of your religion and beliefs, it’s a beautiful piece of art worth visiting in Puebla.

5. Museo Amparo

Museo Amparo (Amparo Museum) is one of Mexico’s most important, yet least visited, historical museums.

It’s located between two colonial-era buildings in the city center of Puebla, and it’s relatively small for a museum. But it’s filled from start to finish with fascinating, authentic artifacts from Mesoamerica’s indigenous civilizations.

You’ll find artifacts from the Aztecs, Maya, Zapotecs, and Olmecs. Additionally, there’s a small section dedicated to Mexico’s colonial and post-colonial history.

Even though you don’t need much time for the museum, you’ll see things you can’t find elsewhere. It’s well worth a quick stop while exploring Puebla’s Zócalo.

6. Biblioteca Palafoxiana

Biblioteca Palafoxiana is a library in Puebla’s historic center across from the Puebla Cathedral. It’s said to be the first-ever public library in the Americas and is considered the most crucial library in Mexico.

As expected, it’s a small library for something that dates back to 1646. However, it has about 15,000 books and manuscripts from the 15th and 20th centuries.

You can’t take out books here anymore. It’s more of a museum, with many books and artifacts behind glass, but it’s a beautiful site.

The library room is small but goes up high with multiple closed-off floors. You can imagine people bustling around in the 1600s, climbing narrow staircases to reach a research book on the third floor.

7. Calle De Los Dolce

If you have a sweet tooth, Calle de los Dolce (Sweets Street) is the place to go. It’s a three-block street near the city center lined with sweets and sugar spots on both sides of the road.

You’ll find local favorites, like camotes, and all other sweet and chocolate classics.

You can get a handful of sweet snacks or a larger gift basket. It might be hard to take back home, but it will keep your taste buds happy for your trip to Puebla!

If you aren’t in the market for confections. Several bakeries will leave your mouthwatering.

Puebla is known for its incredible food, and the sweet treats and desserts are no exceptions, as Calle de los Dolce made clear!

8. Pyramid of Cholula

Cholula is a small city, pueblo magico (magic town), and UNESCO World Heritage Site northwest of Puebla . It’s most known for the Great Pyramid in the town center, representing a fascinating piece of pre-colonial and colonial history.

The Great Pyramid was likely built in several stages, starting in the 3rd century BC. The pyramid was dedicated to the deity Quetzalcoatl, and it is connected to rain, science, and agriculture.

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios (Church of Our Lady of Remedies) was built on top of the pyramid during the Spanish conquest in 1954.

Now, you can climb to the church through ancient Aztec ruins. It’s an exciting blend of Spanish conquest times and the ancient civilization that once ruled the area.

Around the Pyramid of Cholula, there’s a beautiful city center with plenty of restaurants, bars, craft stalls, street vendors , and more. So, it’s an enjoyable place to explore for a day from Puebla.

👍🏼 Tour To Cholula From Puebla

4.5 ⭐️ 18 Reviews

Cholula is only about 13 km (8 miles) from Puebla, but public transportation can be challenging. The easiest way to get there from Puebla, and the most educational, is with a guided tour to Cholula .

The tour includes a guide who can explain the significance and history of the Pyramid of Cholula.

On this tour, you’ll visit the Temple of San Francisco Acatepec, Temple of Santa Maria Tonantzintla, Archaeological Zone of Cholula, Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, Convent of San Gabriel, San Pedro Market, and Cholula Regional Museum .

It’s the best way to experience the most of Cholula while learning a lot along the way.

We enjoyed a pleasant and informative tour of Cholula! Our guide Bruno was excellent and very informative.  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Douglas_S , Apr 2023

9. Museo Regional de la Revolución

The Museo Regional de la Revolución (Regional Revolution Museum) is another fascinating way to learn about Puebla’s history and the revolution.

Puebla is a very naturalistic city with a rich history in the revolution and the location of many important battles.

This is a small museum near downtown Puebla, but it has very well-written exhibits that enlighten guests on the years surrounding the revolution and the role Puebla played in it.

The years between 1910 and 1917 were significant for Mexico as they were still discovering their identity and finding out how they fit. The museum does a great job of illustrating this, as well as other significant periods.

10. Estrella de Puebla

Estrella de Puebla (the Star of Puebla) is a tourist Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the city and surrounding area.

The Ferris Wheel has a diameter of 70 meters and a height of 80 meters. The ride on the Ferris wheel only takes about 20 minutes, but don’t worry; there are many other things to do in this area.

The Star of Puebla is a part of the Parque Lineal Complex that houses the Art Garden, Metropolitan Ecopark, and the Atoyac River Walk. There’s a 2.8-mile Parque Lineal Path that’s fun to explore.

I recommend riding the Star of Puebla around sunset or just after sunset for some of the best city views and good lighting.

The Star of Puebla suspended its operations in 2021, possibly due to Covid-19. It’s said to be finishing some renovations and returning to action in 2024.

11. Fuertes de Loreto

Fuertes de Loreto (Loreto Forts) are a significant site in Puebla. They were once chapels built on the top of an Acueyametepec hill but were reconstructed into military buildings at the beginning of the 19th century.

The forts were crucial in several battles, including the Siege of Puebla (or Battle of Puebla) and the Second French Intervention in Mexico.

The forts are in Zona Historica de los Fuertos (Historical Zone of the Forts). It’s a large park with several forts, museums, and other historically significant monuments.

There are also small, renovated tunnels under the park, where you can learn more about the battles and significance of the forts.

You can visit the park, walk around, learn a little about these battles, and enjoy a sunny afternoon outside Puebla’s city center.

12. Callejon de Los Sapos

Callejon de Los Sapos (Alley of the Frogs) is a quintessential colonial alleyway about a 10-minute walk from the Puebla City Center.

The alleyway has quintessential European architecture, cobblestone streets, lively water fountains, street musicians, and European restaurants blended with Mexican cuisine .

Some souvenir shops, handicraft stalls, street foods, and other performances are also around the alley.

It’s a small, walking street worth visiting for a fresh coffee or lunch.

13. Catedral de Puebla

The Catedral de Puebla (Puebla Cathedral) can’t be missed. It’s at the heart of the city in the Zócalo.

It’s a Baroque-style cathedral with beautiful designs inside and out. The cathedral is still used despite being completed in 1737. But you can also walk through the cathedral and admire the beautiful artwork and designs.

It also makes for a great photo spot, especially around sunset when Puebla’s sky lights up with an array of hues and colors.

14. Barrio del Artistas

Barrio del Artistas (or the Artist Quarter) is another quintessential piece of the city and one of the best things to do in Puebla for artists and art enthusiasts.

The corridor began as a workshop for artists but has grown to include dance, music, theatre, and other artistic disciplines.

Tourists and visitors can walk through the corridor, admire the art for sale, or even purchase something to bring home. There are also a few cafes and small bakeries scattered around the corridor.

15. Volcano Cuexcomate

Volcano Cuexcomate, often called “the world’s smallest volcano,” is an inactive geyser, not a volcano. The geyser was born from an eruption from Popocatépetl Volcano, the giant volcano looming over the city.

Today, you can visit the geyser and go inside the little 43-foot volcano. The inside is cooler; you can see a small waterfall and stream.

Its last eruption was sometime in the 1600s, though it technically could still erupt, and sometimes locals are evacuated in preparation.

16. Popocatépetl Volcano

Izta-Popo National Park is a large national park near Puebla, where you can hike up a volcano and explore the base of an active volcano. This is one of the best things to do in Puebla for active travelers, but you must also be careful.

You’ll begin your hike around Paso de Cortes, where several trails are going up to Izta volcano, and maybe even watch Popo Volcano erupt afar.

Remember that Puebla is high, so hiking and physical activity may feel more challenging. Make sure to give yourself a few days in Mexico City or Puebla before spending an entire day hiking.

17. Arqueológica de Cantona

Cantona Archeological Ruins are some of the lesser-visited ruins in Mexico , and for this reason, it’s one of the best things to do in Puebla.

You’ll need your car, however, as there are few tours and no direct buses to the ruins. But once you get here, it’ll feel well worth it.

There are hardly any other tourists at the ruins, so you’ll have the place yourself. The ruins are sprawled out, so there’s a lot to see and do. And you can even climb to the top of the small pyramids and buildings for great views of the valley beyond.

It’s believed the first settlers of Cantona were the Olmeca-Xicallanca people. At its peak, there were over 80,000 people here.

It’s also not clear what led to the fall of the civilization, but it’s possibly due to the harsh and arid climate of the region, which made agriculture particularly challenging.

18. Arbo Terra (Parque Ecologico)

The Arbo Terra is an animal conservation theme park in Parque Ecológico Revolución Mexicana. It’s an extension of Africam Safari, though in a completely different part of the city.

The Arbo Terra houses thousands of birds and small mammals, all roaming around free. It’s an exciting learning experience, and jump into nature.

The Arbo Terra is also located in a massive park, Parque Ecologico. And it’s worth it just for this reason. The park has soccer fields, a beautiful lake, a skate park, a mini-golf course, an outdoor concert venue, a little snack shack, and several playgrounds.

It’s an excellent place for a picnic after walking through the Arbo Terra at the end of the park.

19. Santa Monica Convent

The Santa Monica Convent is an interesting convent that has since become a museum. This place was a secret convent during the 19th century when convents and monasteries were banned.

The museum is filled with religious art, many of which were made by the nuns at the time. There are placards throughout in English that explain the history and importance of the Santa Monica Convent.

20. Do a Talavera Workshop At The Interactive Museum Casa Celia

One of the best ways to learn about a region is by learning about the regional art. The Casa Celia Museum is the perfect place in Puebla to do just that.

Puebla’s signature pottery is the Talavera ceramics, which can be identified by its unique and striking designs. Often, it’s a white backdrop with colorful designs (predominantly blue) of intricate lines, swirls, and small flowers.

You’ll find these ceramics all over Puebla, but you can try out a Talavera workshop at Casa Celia to learn more about the process.

The museum believes education is the key to keeping culture alive, and it aims to preserve the ancestral technique by offering workshops. 

21. Try Local Dishes and Drinks

Puebla has arguably the best and most authentic Mexican cuisine in the country. Many signature dishes reign from Puebla, including the famous Mole Poblano.

You should try out some of the classic Pueblan dishes while you’re in the city, as the food is undoubtedly one of the best things in Puebla.

Here are some classic Mexican dishes to try:

🍽 Mole Poblano : This is a thick sauce typically made from Mexican chocolate, nuts, seeds, chilis, and fruits. It’s traditionally served with chicken and rice.  It has a unique taste that means people either love or hate it, but Puebla is the place to decide that.

🍽 Chiles en Nogada : This is another Mexican national dish from Puebla. It’s poblano chile stuffed with picadillo and topped with a walnut-based cream sauce (nogada) and cranberries.

🍽 Tacos Arabes : This is like a Middle Eastern-influenced taco. It’s usually cumin-marinated pork or goat meat served in a folded pita taco. The meat is generally juicy, an exciting variation of the classic taco el pastor.

🍽 Pasita : This is a type of alcohol from Puebla. It’s a shot of raisin-liquor served with a small cube of cheese as the chaser.

🍽 Rompope : This is another beverage and a Latin American variation of eggnog. It has eggs, ground almonds, milk, and vanilla flavoring. It’s believed to have come from the Santa Clara convent in Puebla.

22. Take a Delicious Culinary Tour in Puebla

5.0 ⭐️ 9 Reviews

Of course, there are a lot of different foods in Puebla you must try. This excellent walking food tour will show you the best of the best.

The tour includes stops at some of the best street food vendors, restaurants, cafes, and bars. You’ll even walk through markets and learn about the origins of some of the local cuisines and some history about the city.

I’m a vegetarian and was wondering if they would be able to accommodate me. And I was surprised how professional the tour guide was! Miguel was very flexible and even went beyond his normal routine.  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Amado_R , Jul 2021

23. Museo Internacional del Barroque

Museo Internacional del Barroque is an art museum showcasing Barroque art. One of the most interesting things about this museum is the building, designed by a renowned Japanese architect.

The museum’s exterior has striking, tall, white walls bending in different directions.

The museum’s interior is also lovely, and the wide range of art and artists is impressive and worth visiting while in Puebla.

24. Puebla Planetarium

The Puebla Planetarium is your classic planetarium, with extensive IMAX showings of all things outer space and interactive exhibits. It’s one of the best things to do in Puebla for families, as there’s something for everyone.

Almost every major city has a planetarium, so this doesn’t have to be high on your list. But it’s a good activity for a rainy day or something nice.

The entrance fee is also relatively low, especially compared to larger United States or European planetariums.

25. Teleférico de Puebla

Teleférico de Puebla (or Puebla Cable Cars) are located near the los fuertes (the forts) in the park in Puebla.

This popular tourist attraction is an easy way to get great city views. The cable cars run over the forts and large park surrounding it, up to a large hill.

The cable cars run throughout the day and into the early evening. Sunset is a great time to do this if it’s a clear day.

Because of its location, you can easily visit the forts around Puebla and do all these things in one outing.

Where to Stay in Puebla, Mexico

Wondering where to stay in Puebla, Mexico ? Here are my top recommendations for every budget level in Puebla!

🛏 Budget: Collexion O al Otro Lado del Rio

Collection O Al otro lado del Rio is an affordable hotel near the city center of Puebla. It’s a tranquil hotel with beautiful architecture and colors. The hotel and rooms are a little plain, but it’s affordable and has an unbeatable location.

I have stayed at this hotel before and enjoyed it again this time! The staff are very kind and efficient and my (superior) room is very well appointed. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ michael , january 2024

🛏 Midrange: El Sueno Hotel & Spa

El Sueno Hotel & Spa is a beautiful hotel only a few blocks from Puebla’s city center. The rooms feel luxurious, some even having a large hot tub in the bathroom.

The hotel also has a small pool, lavish decorations, and an excellent on-site restaurant. The restaurant has a terrace looking out over the streets, and it’s a great spot to unwind with a glass of wine or light snacks.

A beautiful colonial house with fountains and plants. Nice details to the rooms like fresh flowers and beautiful decor. Very close to Zócalo! The spa massage was very good! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ LAURA , JANUARY 2024

🛏 Luxury: L Hotel La Perla Boutique

L Hotel La Perla Boutique is a beautiful luxury hotel in the heart of Puebla. Despite being in the middle of all the main tourist attractions, it has a quiet and low-key vibe.

The rooms are plush and comfortable, with everything you need. The hotel boasts friendly staff and extra amenities. One of the best things about the hotel is the charming rooftop pool, with great city views if the weather permits.

The room was gorgeous. Excellent location in the middle of everything, shops, cafes, restaurants – Zocalo is just a couple of blocks away! Staff was super friendly. Highly recommend! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ JEAN-PAUL , NOVEMBER 2023

Where is Puebla, Mexico?

📍 puebla mexico map .

🚘 How To Get To Puebla, Mexico

Puebla, Mexico, is 132 km (82 miles) from Mexico City. The trip takes about 2 hours, depending on traffic.

There’s a small airport in Puebla, but there are few direct flights here.

The easiest way to get to Puebla is from Mexico City. Buses from Mexico City to Puebla and back leave frequently from all major bus terminals in Mexico City. There are even buses directly from Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez (Mexico City International Airport) to Puebla.

Alternatively, you can also drive yourself to Puebla. You’ll take Highway 150D, which connects Mexico City and Veracruz most of the way there.

Is Puebla Worth Visiting?

Yes, Puebla is worth visiting! Puebla is home to some of the best food in Mexico, beautiful colonial architecture, and plenty of museums, parks, and nature trails to keep you busy.

Most people look past Puebla, which isn’t as popular as Mexico City. But the city has a lot to offer and many great things to do in Puebla.

Getting Around Puebla

There are local buses and vans connecting much of Puebla and Cholula. Google Maps typically has somewhat accurate descriptions and directions.

However, taxis and rideshare apps are much easier to get around Puebla. Uber works in Puebla, and people use DiDi to get around the city.

Many of the main tourist attractions in Puebla are centered around the city center, so it’s also pretty easy to walk most places.

The Best Time To Visit Puebla

The best time to visit Puebla is from October to March during the dry season. The wet season is from April to September, and it can rain on and off throughout the day.

How Much Time Do You Need in Puebla?

2-3 days is plenty of time for Puebla, though you can get much more done if you have a few more days. Puebla isn’t as action-packed as other popular tourist destinations, so you don’t necessarily need an entire week.

If you want to explore Puebla, Cholula, the surrounding volcanos, and all the museums, you might want to set aside a little more time.

Puebla Mexico Travel Tips

📌 Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during popular holidays and weekends. Puebla is still a big city, and plenty of people travel there each year.

📌 Prepare for the altitude . Puebla sits 2,135 meters (7,005 ft) above sea level; altitude sickness could be a pain during your travels.

📌 Bring layers of clothes , especially if visiting Puebla during the rainy season. It’s high elevation and can get cold in the evenings.

📌 Step out of your comfort zone with all the incredible food in Puebla . The food is unique, some of it you’ll only find here. Try as much food as you can, and you’ll truly understand why it’s considered the culinary source of Mexican food.

📌 Always watch for pickpocketers and scammers, especially when taking public transportation around the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is puebla best known for.

Puebla is the capital city of the state of Puebla.

Puebla is best known for its food, which draws from various flavors and has made a considerable impression on Mexican cuisine.

But it’s also known for its Talavera ceramics, the beautiful backdrop of Popo Volcano, its proximity to Cholula, and home to the first public library in the Americas. It’s earned quite a positive reputation.

What Is The Magic Town In Puebla?

There are ten popular magic towns in Puebla state, but Cholula is the most well-known magic town. Cholula is just under an hour from downtown Puebla, and it’s a beautiful pueblo magico .

Atlixco is another magic town near Puebla, about a 40-minute from the city center. Atlixco is called “ the city of flowers ” on the hill leading up to the Popocatépetl volcano.

Why Is Puebla Called The City of Angels?

Puebla City was founded as “ Puebla de los Angelos ” or “ The City of Angels .” Some believed that angels laid a rope to outline the center square and the downtown streets because the city’s design was perfectly executed.

How Expensive is Puebla, Mexico?

Puebla is considered one of the most affordable cities in Mexico. It’s not an expensive city; most things are reasonably priced, especially food and souvenirs.

Is Puebla a Day Trip from Mexico City?

Yes, Puebla is a good day trip from Mexico City . Getting to Puebla only takes around two hours, so you can easily spend one day here.

However, if you’re interested in history and food, you should try to spend more than one day in Puebla.

Wrapping Up: Things To Do in Puebla, Mexico

There are many great things to do in Puebla City or the City of Angels . It’s a beautiful city with colonial architecture, large parks, great cultural and historical significance, heavy influence on Mexican cuisine, and eye-catching art.

Many people take a day trip from Mexico City, but you can easily spend a few days roaming the streets designed by the angels.

Before You Go…

Here are some useful posts that you might be interested in:

• Mexico Travel Guide
• What is Mexico Known for? 51 Famous Things About Mexico
• Is Mexico Safe to Travel Right Now?
• How Not to Get Sick in Mexico: 5 Tips on How to Stay Healthy
• The 17 Best Surf Spots in Mexico: The Ultimate Guide

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

24 Best Things to Do in Puebla, Mexico (+ Itinerary)

by Julie | Jan 27, 2022 | Mexico , Travel

In this blog post, I’m going to share with you 24 of the best things to do in Puebla, a city famous for its delicious food, gorgeous architecture, fascinating history, beautiful pottery, and colorful neighborhoods.

If you’re looking to escape the craziness of Mexico City, then you can’t go wrong visiting Puebla. With Mexico’s fantastic bus system, you can easily get to the city from the capital in 2 hours and from Oaxaca City in 5 hours.

Disclosure:  This post may contain affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate and a Bookshop.org Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  Please see this website’s  Disclosure  for more info.

In This Post, You’ll Find…

I’ve divided the 24 things to do in Puebla into 5 categories. Just jump to the category that interests you the most.

• Things to Do in Puebla: Historic Center
• Things to Do in Puebla: Museums & Historic Buildings
• Things to Do in Puebla: Top Tours
• Things to Do in Puebla: Food Lovers
• Things to Do in Puebla: Day Trips
• Suggested Puebla itinerary
• How to Get to Puebla
• Where to Stay in Puebla
• Is Puebla Safe?

Top Things to Do in Puebla: Historic Center

Puebla has one of my favorite historic centers in all of Mexico. It’s filled with drop-dead gorgeous buildings and colorful neighborhoods . I just loved wandering around discovering its architectural wonders , cute cafes , and shops selling Talavera potter y.

Here is a list of things to do in Puebla’s historic center:

• Hang out in the Central Plaza – Zocalo de Puebla
• Discover the beautiful architecture of Puebla
• Stroll down the Alley of Frogs
• Shop at Plaza Parian
• Buy art in the Artist Quarter

1. Hang Out at Zocalo de Puebla (Central Plaza)

The first thing to do when you arrive in Puebla is to visit the heart and soul of the city: the Zocalo (public square). This is the cultural and historic center of the city.

After traveling in Mexico for 6 months, I think Puebla has one of the most festive and beautiful Zocalos in the country.

Its lively atmosphere is due to how small and compact the park is as well as how the diners from the restaurants and cafes spill out onto the sidewalks. As you walk down the street, you’re surrounded by people eating, drinking, and having a good time.

The architecture, like in all of Puebla, is also stunningly beautiful.

Spend some time here in the evening. Because there are so many people out and about, it feels 100% safe.

2. Discover the Beautiful Architecture of Puebla

After you’ve made your rounds of the Zocalo, wander along the streets radiating out from the park. This is where you’ll find some of Puebla’s most beautiful architecture .

2.1 Puebla’s architectural style

Talavera Tiles: The exteriors and interiors of Puebla’s buildings are decorated in blue, green, yellow, and orange ceramic tiles called azulejos . The ceramic is the same material used in their Talavera pottery .

If you’ve visited Portugal, you’re probably familiar with this architectural style as Lisbon is well-known for decorating its buildings with azulejos .

The other feature that stood out for me was the intricate white stucco decorating the windows and doors of the city’s buildings.

2.2 My two favorite buildings

These are two of my favorite buildings.

The one on the left is found right across from the Central Plaza in the Los Remedios restaurant on Avenida Don Juan de Palafox y Mendoza ( Google Maps) .

The building on the right is a small art gallery called Canto de Los Angeles on Calle 7 Ote ( Google Maps ).

2.3 My Favorite Streets in Puebla:

Here are some of my favorite streets where you can find some stunning architecture:

Calle 5 de Mayo

Starting at the corner of the Zocalo is Calle 5 de May o ( Google Maps ), a pedestrian-only street lined with trees, beautiful old buildings, shops, and street vendors selling everything from balloons to food to cell phone accessories.

Go in the evening when the food carts come out and the street lamps come on. This is when the street is at its liveliest.

Look above the first-floor shops at the intricately carved decorations and European-inspired balconies and street lamps.

Calle la Dulce / Avenida 6 Ote

Another of my favorite streets is the colorful Avenida 6 Ote ( Map) , also known as Calle la Dulce (the Street of Sweets).

Besides the beautiful and colorful buildings, the street is famous for its many stores selling traditional Puebla sweets. Jump to my section on foodie things to do in Puebla to find a good shop to buy some.

Calle 3 Ote

There are two parts to Calle 3 Ote: the tree-lined pedestrian-only section, also known as John Lennon alley ( Map ), and the other section ( Map ) lined with neon-colored buildings .

No, John Lennon never made it to Puebla. But he had one fan in the city who was so obsessed that he paid for the construction of a stone marker commemorating the legendary singer.

The other part of the street is lined with neon bright pink, blue, and yellow buildings.

Calle 6 Norte and Avenida 5 Ote

Calle 6 Norte ( Map ) has some interesting architecture as well as a lot of shops selling Talavera pottery.

Make sure to check out the facade of Museo del Alfeniqu e on the corner of Calle 6 Norte and Ave 5 Ote .

Calle 4 Sur

Calle 4 Sur ( Google Maps ) goes right in front of Templo de la Compania de Jesus and the Plaza de Democracia . It’s got some beautiful buildings and a church that will stop you in your tracks.

3. Stroll Down the Alley of the Frogs (Callejon del Sapo)

Alley of the Frogs ( Google Maps) was made for Instagram . I couldn’t get enough of the colorful buildings, the cobble-stoned streets, and the charming cafes and art galleries.

O n Saturdays , the street I suspect becomes even more charming when it is closed off for an antique market.

There are 2 parts to Alley of the Frogs : one lined with vibrantly colorful buildings (above) and the other a pedestrian-only section (below) .

Why is it called Alley of the Frogs?

Long ago, the nearby San Francisco River would flood and cover the area. The water attracted a lot of frogs. Hence, the name Alley of the Frogs.

4. Shop at Plaza Parian

If you’re looking for souvenirs and handicrafts , a good place to start is the outdoor market at Plaza Parian ( Google Maps ).

You can buy everything there from Talavera pottery to traditional candy to t-shirts .

At the start of Plaza Parian is a young woman with a mobile food cart selling 4 taquitos for MXN$15 (US$.75). They’re very tasty.

5. Buy Some Art in the Artist Quarter

The next fun area to explore is the Artist Quarter ( Google Maps ).

Look for the Quarter’s 2 most famous statues.

• Three women (photo above).

• The other famous statue is of an artist and his easel .

The other interesting part is the tree-lined lane connecting the Artist Quarter to the Parian Market . On one side are little artist studios where you’ll find artists painting and displaying their artwork.

The other side of the street has restaurants and cafes.

Top Things to Do in Puelba: Museums & Historic Buildings

6. visit museo amparo.

If you’re going to visit one museum in Puebla, make sure it’s Museo Amparo. This wonderfully eclectic museum has everything from Maya artifacts to colonial art to aerial photos of present-day Mexico.

The museum has a bonus: a rooftop terrace with beautiful views of the Puebla skyline . In pre-COVID times, there was an outdoor restaurant on the terrace.

7. Museo del Alfenique

• OPEN: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Tu – Su
• COST: MXN$40
• LOCATION: Google Maps

Originally, the Alfenique museum was the home of a wealthy family. Today it’s a museum with displays on regional history and art. Unfortunately, the displays have no English explanations, so if you’re not fluent in Spanish, you won’t get much out of your visit. It’s too bad about this because Puebla has such a rich history.

Architecturally, though, the museum is stunningly beautiful. So even if you don’t enter, check out its exterior and take a peek at its courtyard.

If you’re a student or teacher, you get half price (from MXN$40 pesos to $20.

8. Museo San Pedro de Arte

• OPEN: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Tu – Su
• COST: MXN$40 (free on Su)

Museo San Pedro de Arte is one museum I’m kicking myself for missing during my time in Puebla. The photos look cool and it looks like an interesting place to learn more of Puebla’s architecture and history.

9. House of Culture of Puebla / Casa de La Culturas

• OPEN: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (M-F); 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Sa and Su)

Across the street from a side entrance to the Cathedral is the House of Culture of Puebla . It’s a cultural center for the people of Puebla.

The Center holds temporary exhibitions of contemporary and traditional art . Some of the contemporary paintings are worth checking out.

You can watch dance performances and movies and listen to concerts at the cultural center as well.

This is also where you’ll find the Biblioteca Palafoxiana .

You can visit its Facebook page for info on upcoming exhibitions and cultural performances.

10. Biblioteca Palafoxiana

• OPEN: 10:00 AM- 6:00 PM (Tu – Su)
• COST: MXN$40; you might get a discount if you show your student or teacher ID; free to just look and take a photo from the outside

Inside the Cultural Center is the oldest public library in the Americas and the only remaining original library of the religious orders of Mexico. Called the Biblioteca Palafoxiana , the library is definitely worth a visit.

You can just peek in from the outside and take a photo for free or pay to enter and explore in more depth. I did the former.

In 1646, Bishop Palafox y Mendoza gave his library consisting of 5,000 books to the Colegio de San Juan y San Pedro. He stipulated that the books he donated were to be made available to anyone who wanted to study and read them.

Over the years, other bishops, religious organizations, and private individuals donated their books to the Palafoxiana , helping it grow to over 40,000 books and rivaling those libraries of eighteenth-century Europe.

The library sustained damage from earthquakes. However, with the help of the World Monument Fund, the building has been restored and the interior renovated; preserving the city’s cultural heritage.

11. Catedral de Puebla

Want to be impressed?

Then walk through probably Mexico’s grandest and most imposing church —the Cathedral of Puebla ( Google Maps ).

With its dark stone exterior, it feels more European than Latin American and more Gothic than Baroque.

The church was originally supposed to be built in Mexico City, but because the ground there wasn’t hard and stable enough, the cathedral was moved to Puebla.

I visited the church three times just to make sure I wasn’t missing anything as there are a lot of unique features. Plus! There are English explanations.

12. Templo de la Compania de Jesus

The Templo de la Compania de Jesus ( Google Maps ) has a very striking exterior . The bottom is this dark gothic-like stone, while the Baroque upper half resembles an elaborate wedding cake.

It’s not hard to miss as it’s located between the Zocalo and the Alley of the Frogs.

13. Capilla del Rosario, Templo de Santo Domingo

The church with the most impressive interior in Puebla is Templo de Santo Domingo. It should not be missed on your tour of the city.

Inside is a beautiful chapel called Capelle del Rosario. It is one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Mexico.

14. Exconvento de San Francisco de Puebla

The corpse of a most beloved Franciscan friar who helped many people, especially the homeless, is on display . Father Sebastian died in the sixteenth century and his corpse is still intact. It’s a ghoulish sight that is hard to look away from and forget.

The Exconvento de San Francisco Puebla ( Google Maps ) is probably the most bizarre sight in Puebla. Even though it’s a bit out of the way, you really must try to visit .

Luckily, a visit to the church is included on the Free Walking Tour .

One particular item inside the church is what it’s all about.

15. Temple of Our Lady of Guadalupe

I came across Templo of our Lady of Guadalupe ( Google Maps ) as I was walking to the Cholula train station. Its exterior is stunningly beautiful.

The exterior is covered in Talavera tiles .

Top Things to Do in Puebla: Tours

The bus tour and walking tour were the two most important things I did in Puebla. Without them, I wouldn’t have known about the city’s cool neighborhoods and streets because guidebooks and blogs usually don’t mention them.

I highly recommend doing the bus tour on the first day and the walking tour on the second or third day, or if you don’t have time, just do one on the first day. They’re both great! Of course, with the walking tour, it does depend on whether your guide is any good.  

16. Bus Tour of Puebla

• OPEN: all times of day
• COST: MXN$100 (US$5)

You might not be a bus tour kind of person.

But because Puebla is so big and there’s not much travel information on the city, this bus tour is a good thing to do on your first day. It’ll introduce you to neighborhoods that you never thought of visiting before.

The tour is also reasonably priced at MXN$100 (US$5) and only an hour.

You can find double-decker buses parked along Avenida 2 Sur beside the Central Plaza. There are three or four bus companies that offer bus tours of Puebla.

The buses go to several different neighborhoods that I didn’t know about and without the tour would have missed. This is how I learned about the Artist Quarter and the Alley of Frogs .

We also got to go to the Historic Fort area, which I never would have visited since it’s quite far away from the historic center.

Unfortunately, there were no English audio guides. Only Spanish.

17. “Free” Walking Tour

• OPEN: 11:00 am (2 to 3 hours)
• COST: tip your guide at the end (don’t be cheap!)
• CONTACT INFO: Facebook or freetour.com

The best thing to do in any Mexican city is to do the “free” walking tour. Puebla has one that is excellent. You’ll get a tour of almost all the streets I mentioned above plus a few other places most tourists don’t go to. Another bonus is that you get to learn about the history and contemporary culture of the city.

I love that my guide pointed out some works of art located along the streets that I had missed, including this wonderful map of old Puebla, made out of Talavera tiles. I wish I remembered the street it was on.

We visited the oldest bakery in Puebla and a place that made tortillas.

Our guide took us to Paseo del rio San Francisco , an area of abandoned textile factories that was rescued and renovated and turned into a mall, convention center, office space, hotels, restaurants, shops, art galleries, and a park.

We also visited the Artist Quarter, the Alley of the Frogs, and some other neighborhoods I would never have visited on my own.

My tour lasted nearly 3 hours .

You can find out about the tour by visiting their Facebook page . Make sure to contact them via Facebook messenger to know when and where to meet the guide. Another way to book the Puebla walking tour is through freetour.com .

Top Things to Do in Puebla: Food

If you are one of those people, who travel to eat, then you’ll love Puebla. Spend your time trying as many of its specialties as you can and sampling some of its famous sweets.

18. Eat the Best Food in Mexico

Sorry, Oaxaca.

But Puebla has THE best food in Mexico.

If it’s any consolation, you are second.

The best thing to do in Puebla is to eat and eat and eat.

Here is a list of 6 must-try dishes, all invented in Puebla. I’ve also included the restaurants I ate them at, which were all recommended to me by locals.

18.1. Chiles en Nogada

I firmly believe that there is a best Mexican dish . The winner would be chiles en nogada .

Eating chiles en nogada in Puebla is special because this is where the dish originated. Unfortunately, you can only eat chiles en nogada in August and September as it’s eaten in celebration of Mexican independence. But luckily, during those months you can find it at almost every restaurant.

Restaurants: El Mural Puebla, Santa Clara, and La Mexicana

18.2. Mole Poblano

Mole poblano consists of braised meat (usually chicken) covered in a rich dark sauce made with over 30 ingredients. The most special one is chocolate.

Many Americans think that mole comes from Oaxaca. But actually, it originated in Puebla .

The mole in Puebla is different from that of Oaxaca. Pueblo’s flavors are more complex and the chocolate taste is more apparent than Oaxaca’s. I prefer Puebla mole .

18.3 Enchilada Tres Mole

There are many different flavors of mole. I’ve heard 7 or 8 but I’ve also been told the number is infinite. In fact, mole is just another word for “sauce.”

The easiest way to try several different moles at once is to order enchilada tres mole . You’ll get 3 enchiladas, each one covered in a different mole: rojo (red), poblano (dark brown), and verde (green).

18.4 Cemitas

Before you eat a cemita, make sure you are starving because these sandwiches are huge!

The name, cemita, comes from the same name of the sesame-seed covering the bun. The seeds are an essential ingredient in the sandwich. Inside, the ingredients are pretty standard: fried breaded cutlet (I ordered breaded pork called Milanesa), fresh Oaxacan cheese, avocado, onion, jalapenos, and the herb, papalo (sort of like cilantro). Mine came with tomatoes and lettuce as well, but I’ve read that those ingredients aren’t traditional.

For more info on this sandwich, read this terrific article on how a writer at Serious Eats fell in love with cemitas.

Restaurant: Antojito’s Tomy ( Google Maps ); Cemitas y Tortas La Poblanita ( Google Maps )

18.5 Tacos Arabes

Do you like Middle Eastern food? Turkish food? Greek food? Lebanese food?

then you’ll love tacos arabes.

Just like the name suggests, tacos arabes are Arab tacos .

They’re a cross between a taco and a schwarma.

The story goes that Middle Eastern immigrants (either Lebanese or Iraqi) brought their schwarma making tools, ingredients, and skills with them when they settled in Puebla. The spit-roasted lamb of the Middle East was replaced with spit-roasted pork, but the pita bread and the marinated spices of cumin, oregano, and onions remained.

When I ate my taco arabes, I was given a sour cream/yogurt sauce with a touch of olive oil instead of the typical Mexican salsa. I almost thought I was back in Greece.

Supposedly, tacos el pastor comes from tacos arabes. The story goes that the Chilangos (people of Mexico City) took the tacos arabes’ idea of roasting the meat on spits and adapted the Puebla tacos even further to fit Mexican tastes, thus inventing tacos el pastor.

Restaurant: Tacos Arabes Bagdad Centro ( Google Maps )

18.6 Chalupas Poblanas

You know the restaurant scene in When Harry Met Sally where Sally, played by Meg Ryan, pretended she was having an orgasm to show Harry, played by Billy Crystal, how easy it was for women to fool men?

Well, I swear, I had a real food orgasm when I first ate a Puebla-style chalupa.

These things have so much flavor in them that even sitting here miles away from Puebla I can still recall what they tasted like.

Originating in Puebla, Chalupa poblanos are small fried masa tortillas covered first in salsa (red or green) and then topped with shredded chicken, pork, or chorizo. You can also add cheese, lettuce, onions, etc.

Restaurant: Cemitas y Tortas La Poblanita ( Google Maps )

19. Sample Puebla’s Famous Sweets

Puebla is so famous for its sweets that it actually has a street named Calle de la Dulce (Street of Sweets) . Near the main square, the street is lined with shops selling the city’s traditional candies, cookies, and anything with sugar in it.

How did Puebla become famous for its sweets?

There are two stories my free walking tour guide told me, but let’s go with the second one because that’s the one based on research by a historian. Nuns from the Convent of Santa Catalina had a recipe for some sweets. They taught the local mestizos how to make, them who then sold the sugary treats outside their churches after mass.

The three most traditional sweets are camotes, jamoncillo de pepita, and tortitas de Santa Clara . But I have to say my favorite is Cocao de con leche.

Shop: Dulceria Talavera ( Google Maps )

20. Go on a Food Tour

Despite Puebla having the best food in Mexico, it doesn’t have a lot of food tours . Probably the best one is this bike and food tour where you get to bike around the city visiting the most important attractions and tasting some of Puebla’s best street food.

Another food tour idea is this walking tour / street food tour . The price is reasonable and you get to eat some of the best food of Puebla.

Top Things to Do in Puebla: Day Trips

There are several day trips you can take from Puebla:

• Cacaxtla and Xochitecatl Ruins
• Cantona Archaeological Site
• Popocatepetl Volcano
• Iztaccihuatl Volcano

La Malinche Volcano

21. visit historic cholula.

Cholula is a city of 118,000 people located 40 minutes by train from Puebla. There are a few good things to do in Cholula, so I highly recommend adding it to your Puebla itinerary.

Here are the must-visit attractions in Cholula:

• Great Pyramid of Cholula
• Regional Museum of Cholula
• Downtown Cholula
• Convento de San Gabriel Arcangel
• Capilla Real de Naturales

21.1 The Great Pyramid of Cholula

My primary purpose in visiting Puebla was to see the great pyramid of Cholula and the church that stands on top of it.

Cholula is the largest pyramid by volume in the world today. It’s 177 feet (54 meters) high and almost 45 acres (18 hectares) wide. The Pyramids of Giza are taller, but Cholula is wider.

Church of Our Lady of Remedies

When you arrive at Cholula, the first thing you’re going to see is an orangish or yellowish-colored (depending on the light) church sitting on top of a hill covered in vegetation.

This is the Church of Our Lady of Remedies (Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios), which was built in the 1600s. You can get to the church by walking up a road that wraps around the hill.

So, where’s the pyramid?

The pyramid lies under the trees, bushes, and grass that cover the hill. It is the actual “hill” , but the only part of the pyramid that you can see is its base.

Dedicated to the god Quetzalcoatl, the pyramid was first constructed in 200 BCE and over the next 1700 years whoever dominated Cholula added another layer to it so that it became bigger and bigger. There are supposedly four layers under the vegetation. You can see a model of the different layers in the on-site museum.

By the time the Spaniards came, though, the pyramid was so overgrown with vegetation that they thought it was a hill. They liked the idea of building a church that dominated the town, so they built it on top of the hill.

Cholula Tunnels

The highlight of a visit to Cholula, though, is a series of tunnels under the pyramid . They were originally built by archaeologists to research the structure. You can explore the tunnels with or without a guide.

There is also a small museum on-site with a miniature replica of Cholula showing the different layers of the pyramid.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t enter the church, the pyramid, the museum, or the tunnels when I was there in September 2021. At that time, both structures were open only on weekends (COVID) and I visited on weekdays.

21.2 Regional Museum of Cholula

• OPEN: 9:30 – 5:00 pm (Tu- Su); closed on M.
• COST: MXN$40 (US$2)

The Regional Museum of Cholula has a little surprise inside that you don’t want to miss! Besides the usual ancient and colonial artifacts, it’s got the coolest, wildest, and most fantastic alebrije I’ve ever seen in all of Mexico.

Alebrije are statues made of wood depicting colorful animals and mythical creatures (the original ones were made of paper). The ones in this museum range from the usual elegant animals (iguanas, armadillos, rabbits, etc.) to life-sized skeletons, dragons, monsters, and fantastical creatures.

21.3 Downtown Cholula

Before leaving Cholula, try to stop downtown near the main Plaza to see the Convento de San Gabriel Arcangel and Capilla Real de Naturales .

The exterior of the convent is kind of architecturally cool but the interior is not all that interesting. However, the interior of the Capilla is quite unique, and you should definitely take a look inside . It is made up of 49 small domes kind of like a mosque.

Getting to Cholula:

I got to Cholula via the Puebla-Cholula Tourist Train . This comfortable and modern train would take passengers for FREE directly to a station across from the pyramid.

Let me just emphasize that word again: FREE.

Unfortunately, the train wasn’t generating enough revenue, so it is currently no longer running.

In case, The-Powers-That-Be do decide to resume the train, here is the schedule:

From Monday to Friday, the train left Puebla at 7:00 am, 8:30 am, and 4:50 pm, and on Saturday and Sunday, it left at 7:00 am, 7:45 am, 8:30 am, 9:15 am, 10 am, 3:15 pm, 4 pm, 4:45 pm, and 5:30 pm.

It took 40 minutes to get to Cholula.

The train left Cholula on Mondays to Fridays at 7:45 a.m., 12:20 p.m., and 5:40 p.m. It departed Cholula on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays at 7:45 am, 8:30 am, 9:15 am, 10 am, 3:15 pm, 4 pm, 4:45 pm, 5:30 pm and 6:15 pm.

An alternative is to take an Uber to Cholula. It’s fast and relatively inexpensive given the fact that Cholula is far from the center. Expect to pay between  MXN$100 and $200 (US$6 – $12) .

22. Cacaxtla Ruins

• OPEN: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
• COST: MXN$75 (US$4)

My biggest regret when visiting Puebla was not making it to the archaeological ruins of Cacaxtla. I was running out of time on my visa and there was a lack of information on how to get to the ruins. If you have made it to them, let me know what you think in the comment section below.

Cacaxtla Ruins

The capital of the Olmeca-Xicalanca people, Cacaxtla is famous for its colorful murals . Few murals from ancient Meso-America have survived, so having a chance to see some in person is quite special.

Divided into two by a staircase, one Cacaxtla mural is 80 feet (26 meters) long and depicts 2 scenes of battle between 2 different ethnic groups, one of which is probably the Maya.

Other murals depict human figures from different cultures (Mixtecs, Maya, Teotihuacan).

Cacaxtla was at the height of its power from 650 to 950 AD and may have been responsible for the defeat of Cholula.

How to Get to Cacaxtla

Atlas Obscura says to “go to the Centro de Autobuses Puebla (CAPU) bus terminal and take an Estrella Roja bus to Tlaxcala.” Then take a taxi to the archaeological sites, which should take 30 minutes.

Lonely Planet says to get a Flecha Azul bus from CAPU terminal to the town of Nativitas and then take a Zona Arqueologica” colectivo to the site.

The easiest way to visit Cacaxtla and the historic city of Tlaxcala in with this Cacaxtla and Tlaxcala tour . You can book with Viator or Get Your Guide .

23. Cantona Archaeological Site

It’s crazy that the Cantona Archaeological Site isn’t mentioned more in travel guides and isn’t visited more by tourists. I didn’t know about it until I visited the Anthropology Museum in Mexico City, where there is a whole section devoted to artifacts from Cantona. The photos of the site look fantastic—great views of the volcanoes.

Cantona was the largest pre-Hispanic city in Mexico . According to Lonely Planet , it was prospering between 600 and 1,000 CE with a population of 80,000 people.

The site has some interesting features:

• 24 ball courts
• no mortar was used to build the structures, so the stones were held in place by their weight – that’s how the Incas built their structures.
• the buildings are connected by raised roads
• center for obsidian mining – this was the material used to make weapons in Mesoamerica

How to get to Cantona Archaeological Site

According to Rome2Rio, take a bus to Oriental and then to taxi to the Cantona Archaeological Site. But the ruins still look like it’s pretty far from Oriental.

Probably the easiest way to get to the ruins is with this private tour of Cantona .

24. Volcanoes

Another of the many reasons why I love Puebla is that it is surrounded by volcanoes (Popocatepetl, Iztaccihuatl, and La Malinche) , one of which is still active (Popocatepetl) and two of which you can climb. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to visit any of them, but I guess that gives me more reasons to return to Puebla.

Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl Volcanoes

You can still climb Iztaccihuatl but not Popocatepetl. According to Lonely Planet , Iztaccihuatl should only be attempted by experienced climbers and given its difficulty, guides are highly recommended. You can also book guides through Get Your Guide .

Named after the interpreter and lover of Hernan Cortes, La Malinche , an inactive volcano, is a popular hiking destination located in the La Malinche National Park. At 4,461 meters (14,636 feet), it’s a difficult climb that’ll take at least 5 hours. You can also stay overnight at 3,333 meters, where you’ll find both rustic and luxury cabins run by Mexican Social Security Institute.

You can climb La Malinche independently or do a hiking tour by signing up through Get Your Guide .

Recommended Puebla Itinerary

This was my itinerary for Puebla:

Puebla – Day 1

• I arrived in Cholula from Oaxaca at about 1:00 pm.
• Zocalo and Cathedral of Puebla
• Explore the streets around the Historic Center
• Morning – Cholula
• Afternoon – Museo Amparo
• Explore the different neighborhoods and streets of Puebla – Alley of Frogs, Artist’s Quarter, and so on
• Museo del Alfenique
• Morning: Free Walking Tour
• Afternoon: Leave for Mexico City

How to get to Puebla

Puebla is fairly easy to get to from Mexico Cito or Oaxaca City .

The problem, however, is the Puebla bus station .

It’s called CAPU ( Google Maps ) and it’s huge ! And if you don’t know what you’re doing, you can easily take a wrong turn and miss your bus.

So, I’m going to help you navigate it, so you don’t do like I did and get lost.

From Mexico City to Puebla and vice versa

It’s a quick 2-hour bus ride from Mexico City to Puebla CAPU Station. You can get a bus from Norte Mexico Station or TAPO Station in Mexico City . Both ADO and AU buses go to and from Puebla multiple times of day . Check the ADO Website for schedules and times and to buy a ticket.

Tickets range in price from MXN$175 to $320 (US$9 – $16).

An alternative is the e-bus that leaves from several places in Mexico City like the WTC Holiday Inn Express and the The Angel CDMX and drops you off at Paseo Destino Shopping Mall ( Google Maps ) in Puebla . You can of course do the route in reverse.

The problem with the e-bus website is that it’s slow and it doesn’t seem to accept foreign credit card or foreign addresses. I was never able to complete a successful transaction using their website.

From Oaxaca to Puebla

From Oaxaca City to Puebla, the ADO bus is a nice and comfy 4-hour ride . Buy your tickets ahead of time on the ADO website .

Tickets range in price from M XN$444 to $623 (US$22 – $31).

Check out my travel guide for Oaxaca here .

Bus Station in Puebla

Arriving in puebla.

When you arrive at Puebla CAPU, look for the taxi stand . It’ll be on the same level as where your bus arrives. Don’t do like I did and follow the local passengers up the escalator.

The taxi ticket booth inside the terminal sells pre-fixed taxi fares . Tell the attendant where you’re going.  and pay a fee according to what zone your destination is in. The attendant gives you a ticket that you take to the taxi stand outside. The taxi stand attendant will arrange a driver for you. You don’t have to worry about being cheated or kidnapped or any other bad scenarios you’ve dreamt up. It’s terrific!

It cost me MXN$81 from the CAPU Bus Station to the historic central district .

Departing Puebla

The departure area of CAPU Station can be overwhelming. When you first enter the bus terminal, you’ll be in a huge hall with ticket windows, restaurants, and shops. If you’ve already bought your bus ticket online like I usually do, skip the ticket window.

At the back of the hall are two hallways. One goes off to the left and the other to the right. Each hallway services specific bus companies. For example, the hallway on the left has buses for AU , while the hallway on the right covers ADO buses . There are more bus companies but those are the two I remember. Above the entrance to the halls will be signs saying which bus companies it contains.

Where to stay in Puebla

Without a doubt, the best area to stay in is the historic center. For solo travelers, it’s safe and there are tons of places to eat nearby. I could leave my hotel in the evening and walk to a restaurant or shop or the historic center.

Puebla has something that I’ve never seen in other cities in Mexico. All hotels have a large letter H hanging outside of them, so when you’re walking down the street, you can easily spot a hotel.

Expect to pay at least MXN$80 for a taxi from the CAPU Bus Station to the Central Historic District.

Here is a list of hotels at various price points that I have compiled. All are located in the safe historic center and they either have a lot of character and/or are very affordable.

Budget to Medium-Priced Accommodations

Hotel santiago.

Booking.com | Agoda

COST: US$17 for private room

Hotel Santiago has got to have the most perfect location on this list of places to stay in Pueblo. Located around the corner from the main square, it’s more on the budget rather than the mid-range end of the spectrum. The rooms are clean and the management treats its guests like royalty.

The only downside is the internet. The worst in Mexico. Perhaps it matters which floor you’re on. I was rarely able to pull up a web page. Management said I could switch rooms if the internet was still not working well for me.

Posada Vee Yu

Hostel World | Booking.com | Agoda

This hostel is centrally located with both dorms and well-priced private rooms. There’s free WiFi, a coworking space, and free coffee.

Casa Pepe Puebla

Booking.com | Agoda | Hostel World

Located a block from Alley of the Frogs and in a seventeenth-century mansion, Casa Pepe Puebla is a brand new hostel. It has stylish and clean dorms and private rooms. Each dorm room has its own attached bathroom. Breakfast included!

Hotel Isabel

Hotel Isabel is another very nicely located hotel, just a couple of blocks from the main square. It’s well-priced and the rooms look very comfortable. I was contemplating staying here but this hotel’s price of US$35 couldn’t beat the Hotel Santiago’s price of US$17.

Breakfast is included and that is definitely a plus!

Mid-range to Upper-priced

Hotel andante.

Another superb hotel in the city center, Hotel Andate is a themed hotel with free breakfast and a roof-top terrace. Each room is stylishly and colorfully decorated based on a different composer.

Hotel Boutique Casona de la China Poblana

The boutique hotel Casona de la China Poblana is located in a seventeenth-century mansion in the heart of the historic center. Rooms are stylishly and traditionally decorated. Internet might not be the most stable. 

Is Puebla Safe for solo travelers?

A friend of mine said the city was dangerous, so I initially had second thoughts about visiting Puebla. On the bus from Oaxaca to Puebla, the scary stories the U.S. media likes to tell came flooding back to me. Those were the same ones that my previous 5 months in Mexico had debunked.

However, during my 4 days in Puebla, I never felt unsafe. Except for when I walked the 30 minutes to the train station and back, I mainly stuck to the central historic district. There generally isn’t much reason to go beyond it.

In the evenings, I walked around the Zocalo and went to and from restaurants and tourist sights. Not once did I feel I was in danger.

Final Thoughts: Best Things to Do in Puebla

A lot of people leave Puebla off their Mexico itinerary. It’s a shame because there are of a lot of things to see and do in Puebla especially if you love architecture, history, art, and food. So, I hope this article has inspired you to visit.

If you were already planning on traveling to Puebla, then I hope this guide has given you some ideas on what to do in Puebla.

Please feel free to leave any comments or questions in the Comment Section below.  

If you’ve found this post helpful, please share it on social media.

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I have wanted to go to Mexico for a while and this looks amazing! What a beautiful city and complete walkthrough. I’m saving it!

I hope you make it to Mexico soon and definitely put Puebla on your itinerary.

What a lovely place! And you have done a great job of selling it to others, despite everything you heard before you visited! I agree with you that it’s important to take on others recommendations but also sometimes when you see somewhere yourself, it can have a very different impact on you. Clearly, Puebla did just that. It looks like a gorgeous place to me & you’ve put it on the map for a Mexico visit in the future!

I’m glad my sales job was persuasive. I really was trying to sell it as so many foreign tourists skip it. I hope you make it to Puebla on your next travels!

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Welcome to The Bamboo Traveler, a travel blog dedicated to helping those travelers who want to dig deeply into the history, heritage, and culture of a place. Whether it’s through the pages of your passport or the pages of a book, I’ll help you travel the world and uncover the history, culture, food, architecture, and natural beauty of some of the world’s most fascinating places.

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Discover 20 Awesome Things to Do in Puebla, Mexico

Thanks to its proximity to Mexico City, many people visit Puebla on a day trip from the capital. Visiting Puebla City on a day trip will give you enough time to experience its highlights but this underrated city (and state) in central Mexico deserves more than a day to really do it justice.

We lived in Puebla for a time and had gotten to know the city quite well. If you’re planning a trip to central Mexico, then here are twenty of the most fun things you can do in Puebla.

VISIT PUEBLA QUICK LINKS

To help maximize your time in Puebla City, we’ve compiled links to popular tours and activities here. Click on the link for a guide to some of the best Puebla Tours .

• Guided Tours: Puebla Sightseeing and Food Tours
• Day Trips: Day Trips to Puebla from Mexico City
• Cooking Classes: Puebla Cooking Classes

Top-rated hotels in the Historic Center, the best area to stay for people on their first trip to Puebla. Click on the link for more Puebla hotel recommendations .

• 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

PUEBLA TRAVEL GUIDE

Check out our detailed guide to Puebla City for more helpful tips.

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TOP THINGS TO DO IN PUEBLA, MEXICO

20. spend the day at zona historica de los fuertes.

Zona Historica de los Fuertes is a sprawling park district located on top of Acueyametepec hill, about 1.4 miles (2.3 km) north of the zocalo (main square). It’s a lovely area that’s home to centuries-old forts and several museums.

Fuertes de Loreto y Guadalupe (Loreto and Guadalupe Forts) are the two most well-known historical attractions and museums at the park. Both are former churches that were converted into military forts to help defend the city against the French during the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

Fuertes de Loreto y Guadalupe are the most popular but Zona Historica is known for other museums and attractions as well. You can also visit Museo de la Evolucion (Museum of Evolution), Museo Interactivo de la Batalla del 5 de Mayo (Interactive Museum of the Battle of May 5), and the Regional Museum of Puebla. You can learn more about these museums and others in our guide to the best museums in Puebla .

Zona Historica is also home to Planetario Puebla (planetarium), several miradors (viewpoints), a large expo center, and Teleférico Puebla – a cable car ride that gives you terrific bird’s eye views of Puebla City and the surrounding Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl volcanoes.

The gondola ride takes you about 200 feet (60 meters) off the ground and stretches for a little under half a mile (700 meters). It costs MXN 35 each way and MXN 53 roundtrip.

19. Explore Mercado Municipal La Acocota

Visiting a traditional Mexican market is one of the best ways to get a glimpse of local life in Mexico. There are a handful you can visit in Puebla City but my favorite one is Mercado Municipal La Acocota .

Located about a 20-minute walk east of the zocalo, La Acocota is our go-to market for fresh fruits and vegetables in Puebla. If you’re looking for cheap traditional poblano food, then be sure to visit the fondas (family-owned Mexican eateries) at the western end of the market.

If you’d rather visit a market closer to Puebla’s Historic Center, then you can go to Mercado 5 de Mayo . It’s bigger than La Acocota but it’s also more chaotic and not as pleasant.

18. Watch the Cinco de Mayo Parade

If you’re in Puebla City in early May, then attending the Cinco de Mayo parade is a no-brainer. Cinco de Mayo is an annual celebration held on May 5 to commemorate the Battle of Puebla. Led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, a vastly outnumbered Mexican army successfully defended the city in 1862 against a larger and better-equipped French army.

Contrary to popular belief – or more accurately, misconception – Cinco de Mayo has nothing to do with Mexico’s Independence Day which is celebrated on September 16.

Cinco de Mayo in Puebla is celebrated with a morning parade along Blvd Heroes del 5 de Mayo and a month-long fair at Zona Historica de los Fuertes.

The Feria de Puebla is a month-long festival that happens every year around Cinco de Mayo. A fairground is set up with rides and carnival games while the expo center plays host to live music shows and a bazaar with traditional poblano food and handicrafts.

17. Take a Day Trip to Val’quirico

Val’Quirico is a tourist development in neighboring Tlaxcala state, about 15 miles (24 km) northwest of Puebla. Val’Quirico is characterized by cobblestone streets and stone houses that are designed to look like a medieval village in Tuscany, Italy.

Val’Quirico is home to a good number of restaurants, cafes, bars, shops, and hotels, making it a worthwhile day trip or overnight destination from Puebla.

There doesn’t seem to be an easy way of getting to Val’Quirico using public transportation so it’s best to go in your own car. Alternatively, you can book this private tour on Get Your Guide . It takes you to Val’Quirico, Chautla’s Castle, and the lavender fields at Rancho San Martin.

16. Visit Parque Ecologico and ArboTerra

After Zona Historica de los Fuertes, Parque Ecologico is the biggest and most interesting park in Puebla City. Located about a 30-35 minute walk east of the city center, it’s a 58-hectare city park with a lagoon, botanical garden, cycling trails, playgrounds, and sporting facilities. It’s also home to one of the best hidden places to visit in Puebla – ArboTerra .

ArboTerra is a domed attraction and aviary featuring different species of birds and reptiles. Surrounded by a small lake, at the center of the aviary is this large treehouse with several themed rooms you can explore.

If you’re visiting Puebla with kids, then ArboTerra and Parque Ecologico is a great place to spend the day. Entrance is MXN 145 for adults and MXN 130 for kids.

15. Buy Dulces Tipicos at Calle de los Dulces

Dulces tipicos literally means “typical sweets” and refers to the many traditional confections produced in Puebla. Originally created by convent nuns, they’ve now become one of the most popular souvenirs you can buy in Puebla .

There are said to be over 300 different types of dulces tipicos in Puebla . You can buy them at souvenir shops throughout the city but you’ll find a particularly large concentration of dulcerias (sweets shops) along Avenida 6 Oriente. There are so many sweets shops along this street that it’s commonly referred to as “Calle de los Dulces”.

14. Take a Day Trip to Atlixco

Pueblo magico (literally “magic town”) is a designation given by the Secretary of Tourism to smaller towns in rural areas of Mexico. It’s a designation that’s meant to promote tourism to towns known for their cultural richness, beauty, historical relevance, interesting cuisine, and hospitality.

As of this writing, there are over 170 pueblos magicos in Mexico, 12 of which are in Puebla state, tied with Jalisco and Estado de Mexico for the most in Mexico. Most are off the beaten path but three – Cholula, Atlixco, and Huejotzingo – are easily accessible and within an hour of Puebla City.

Located at the foot of Popocatépetl Volcano, Atlixco is known for its stunning natural scenery and pleasant climate that makes it ideal for growing a wide variety of flowers.

Atlixco is about 20 miles (32 km) southwest of Puebla City. It’s best to stay the night but if you don’t have enough time, then you can easily visit on a day trip by ORO bus , car, or guided tour ( Option 1 | Option 2 ). Check out our detailed Atlixco travel guide for more information.

13. Try Tacos Arabes

If you’re a fan of tacos, then you need to try tacos arabes. Originally from Puebla, it refers to the taco dish that descended from Lebanese shawarma and led to the creation of Mexico’s beloved taco al pastor.

Unlike tacos al pastor which are made with heavily marinated pork and corn tortillas, tacos arabes are more simply seasoned and wrapped in fluffier pan arabe (pita bread). It’s a delicious type of taco and the most common you’ll find in Puebla.

You can refer to our tacos arabes guide for a list of our favorite tacos arabes restaurants in Puebla .

12. Buy Talavera Pottery

There are many souvenirs you can buy in Puebla. But if you want something that’s truly emblematic of the city and state, then one of the best things you can buy is Talavera pottery .

Talavera refers to a style of pottery that originated in Talavera de la Reina in Spain. It was brought to Mexico during the early colonial period and took root in Puebla state thanks to the region’s abundance of high-quality natural clay.

Fashioned into plates, cups, saucers, and bowls, you can buy Talavera pottery from the many souvenir shops in Puebla City but the best pieces bear the potter’s signature and the logo of the workshop where they were made. Sold at a more premium price, they also come with a hologram certifying their authenticity.

11. Visit Biblioteca Palafoxiana

If you have a fondness for books and libraries, then you’ll definitely want to visit Biblioteca Palafoxiana. Established in 1646 by the former Bishop of Puebla Juan de Palafox y Mendoza, it’s recognized by UNESCO as the oldest public library in the Americas.

Biblioteca Palafoxiana is a small library located on the second floor of Casa de la Cultura (Cultural Center). Admission is MXN 42 but you can get in for free on Tuesdays and Sundays. If you’d like to visit with a guide, then perhaps you’d be interested in booking this walking tour through Get Your Guide .

Click on the link to learn more about Biblioteca Palafoxiana .

10. Explore Callejón de los Sapos

Callejón de los Sapos literally means “alley of the frogs” and refers to Calle 6 Sur, a picturesque two-block alleyway with colorful houses and interesting antique shops. It’s one of the most visually appealing streets in Puebla City and a great place to peruse antiques and take photos for your Instagram feed.

Frogs are a recurring theme in Puebla. I’ll need to confirm this with a local but I believe they’re in homage to the Pueblan pool frog ( Lithobates pueblae ), a species of frog endemic to the Necaxa River near Huauchinango .

If you happen to be in Puebla City over the weekend, then be sure to visit one of the outdoor artisanal markets that set up in different parts of the city.

This smaller one sets up on one end of Callejon de los Sapos but a larger one can be found at Parque Analco , on the other side of Blvd Heroes del 5 de Mayo.

9. Take a Shot of Pasita and Rompope

Puebla is famous for regional dishes like mole poblano and chiles en nogada but it’s also known as the birthplace of two types of liqueur – pasita and rompope.

Pasita refers to a raisin-flavored liqueur invented by a cantina (bar) of the same name – La Pasita. It’s served in a slender shot glass called a “caballito” with a toothpick-skewered raisin and a cube of goat cheese.

The yellowish liqueur dusted with cinnamon is rompope. Rompope refers to a type of Mexican eggnog enriched with rum or brandy. It’s popular throughout Latin America but like dulces tipicos, it’s believed to have been invented by convent nuns in Puebla City.

You can enjoy shots of pasita and rompope at La Pasita . Open since 1916, La Pasita is a poblano institution with two locations in Puebla – the more popular spot just off Callejón de los Sapos and another on the other side of the zocalo.

If you like to drink, then you need to enjoy shots of pasita and rompope at La Pasita. I like to think of them as welcome drinks to Puebla.

8. Eat a Cemita Poblana

Like anyone, I enjoy a good sandwich but the cemita poblana may be one of my favorite sandwiches in the world. It refers to a delicious poblano sandwich made with a cemita bread roll stuffed with chicken or pork milanesa, quesillo ( Oaxaca cheese ), avocados, onions, papalo , and chili peppers (either chipotle or poblano).

I like cemitas poblanas so much that I probably enjoy them around three or four times a week. Like tacos to Mexico City, they’re one of the most popular snacks or comfort foods you’ll find in Puebla.

Check out our article on cemitas for a list of our favorite cemitas shops in Puebla .

7. Visit Museo Internacional del Barroco (International Museum of the Baroque)

There are many interesting museums in Puebla City but the International Museum of the Baroque is one of the biggest and most impressive. Located around 6 miles (10 km) south of the Historic Center, it features a fantastic collection of Baroque art, architecture, and music.

The museum’s well-curated exhibits will keep you entertained for hours but the building itself is just as noteworthy. Opened in 2016, the building was designed by renowned Japanese architect Toyo Ito.

Museo Internacional del Barroco is located at Reserva Territorial Atlixcáyotl, a lush green space with plenty of walking trails. Admission is MXN 85 (free on Sundays) and you can there using public transportation or Uber.

6. Take a Day Trip to Cholula

Thanks to its proximity, Cholula is the most frequently visited pueblo magico from Puebla City. This magic town is located just 9 miles (15 km) west of downtown Puebla and can easily be reached by public bus, car, or even Uber. You can also go on a guided tour ( Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 ). Check out our Cholula travel guide for more information.

Cholula’s most emblematic attraction is Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, a 16th-century Roman Catholic church that sits on top of the largest pre-Hispanic pyramid in Mesoamerica.

Like Atlixco, Cholula is worthy of a longer stay but its accessibility makes it the easiest day trip destination from Puebla. You may have heard of a tourist train that shuttled people between Puebla and Cholula but it’s no longer operational.

Instead, you can catch a public bus from the station at 6 Poniente between 11 and 13 Norte (behind Mercado de Sabores ). The fare is just MXN 10 each way.

5. Visit Capilla del Rosario and Templo de Santo Domingo

There are many impressive churches in Puebla , but none are more visually striking than Capilla del Rosario (Rosary Chapel) inside Templo de Santo Domingo. This masterpiece of the Mexican Baroque style has been described as the “ eighth wonder of the world ” and dubbed “America’s shrine” by Pope John Paul II.

Also known as “The Golden House”, Capilla del Rosario is covered in 24k gold stucco and features countless details in Talavera and onyx. It also features six large oil paintings by artist José Rodríguez Carnero depicting key moments in the life of the Virgin Mary. To say that the Rosary Chapel is breathtaking would be an understatement.

Like any church in Puebla, entrance to the Church of Santo Domingo is free but you’ll need to pay MXN 20 to enter the Rosary Chapel.

4. Eat Chiles en Nogada

The regional food in Puebla is one of the most renowned in Mexico. In fact, the two dishes that are widely considered to be Mexico’s national dishes are from Puebla. Mole poblano is one, chiles en nogada is the other.

Chiles en nogada is a seasonal dish consisting of a large chile poblano pepper stuffed with a picadillo mixture. Typically prepared around August till mid-September when pomegranates are in season, the stuffed chili pepper is covered in a creamy walnut sauce and topped with fresh pomegranate seeds and parsley.

This interesting and delicious dish is traditionally prepared to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day. As nationalistic as it is beautiful, the main ingredients in chiles en nogada mimic the colors of the Mexican flag – poblano chili pepper for green, walnut sauce for white, and pomegranate seeds for red.

Some touristy restaurants in Puebla City serve chiles en nogada year-round but it’s best to try it when pomegranates are in season. Otherwise, the pomegranate seeds taste fairly bland.

3. Visit Museo Amparo (Amparo Museum)

As great as the International Museum of the Baroque is, Museo Amparo is still the best museum in Puebla. Occupying two colonial buildings in the heart of the Historic Center, it’s a large art and archaeology museum housing an impressive collection of contemporary art, installation pieces, religious paintings, artifacts, and pre-Hispanic art.

I’ve probably been to over fifty museums in Mexico and Amparo Museum, together with Soumaya Museum in Mexico City, is the best museum I’ve visited thus far. It’s a Puebla must-see with its excellent mix of art and Mexican history put together in a modern, comfortable, and well-curated space.

After Amparo Museum, I suggest visiting Casa de los Muñecos as well if you have the time. Located just five minutes away, it’s another fascinating museum in the Puebla downtown area.

2. Make Three Wishes at Catedral de Puebla (Puebla Cathedral)

Capilla del Rosario may have the more visually striking interior but in my opinion, Catedral de Puebla is still the most impressive church in Puebla. Its sheer size will take your breath away.

Located on the south side of the zocalo, opposite city hall, Catedral de Puebla is a massive colonial-era church featuring two towers housing a total of ten bells, the largest weighing in at over 8 tons. The Cathedral is visible from miles away and is easily the focal point of the Historic Center.

In some Catholic countries, there’s a belief that entering a new church for the first time entitles you to three wishes. Don’t forget to make them when you visit Puebla Cathedral.

1. Eat Mole Poblano

Puebla is known for its food and mole poblano is the most celebrated dish in poblano regional cuisine. I prefer cemitas poblanas as an everyday dish but if you had time to eat just one thing in Puebla, then it should definitely be mole poblano.

Mole poblano refers to a thick and dark sauce made with over twenty different ingredients like cocoa, several types of chili peppers, and warm spices like allspice, cloves, and coriander seeds. A common misconception is that chocolate is the primary ingredient in mole poblano but the sauce actually gets much of its flavor and color from dried mulato peppers.

There are hundreds of known mole recipes in Mexico but mole poblano is arguably the most important. In fact, when someone says “mole”, they’re typically referring to mole poblano.

There are many mole restaurants in Puebla but I suggest trying it at Restaurante Casareyna, a more upscale restaurant inside a boutique hotel of the same name. They offer a mole degustation platter with four different types of mole. Alternatively, you can try it on a food tour ( Option 1 | Option 2 ).

FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUEBLA, MEXICO

While researching Puebla attractions, you may have come across articles recommending Estrella de Puebla. Meaning “Star of Puebla”, Estrella de Puebla is a 260-ft (80 meters) ferris wheel located about 3 miles (5 km) southwest of the Historic Center. It holds a Guinness record for being the world’s largest portable observation wheel.

Estrella de Puebla has been closed for over two years but people fond of lofty views may want to visit when it reopens. I’ll be sure to update this guide on the top Puebla sights if and when it does.

As described at the top of this article, many people relegate Puebla to a day trip from Mexico City but I hope this guide convinces you to stay longer than that. At the very least, I hope it gets you even more excited to visit this fascinating and vastly underrated destination in central Mexico.

Anyone who’s spent time in this Mexican city can tell you – Puebla is the real Mexico.

Some of the links in this guide on the best things to do in Puebla, Mexico are affiliate links. What that means is that we’ll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Authenticity is important to us so 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. Thank you!

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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 Rentalcars.com, 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!
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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 : 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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28 Best Things To Do In Puebla, Mexico For 1-2 Days

Table of Contents

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Planning a trip to Puebla? I’m jealous because, even though I just got back, I’m dying to go again. There are so many ways things to do in Puebla Mexico including simply wandering and soaking up the vibe of this charming city. Puebla is one of my favourite places in Mexico so far. I couldn’t help but compare it to Oaxaca with its colourful colonial buildings and local markets serving regional delicacies like mole . But Puebla is quieter, making it one of the best places in Mexico to experience the culture without feeling OTT touristic. It’s worth noting that as a solo traveller in Mexico , I felt totally safe during my trip.

PUEBLA ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld   Copy of Lonely Planet Mexico Activities in Puebla: GetYourGuide Getting there: Rentalcars.com / Busbud

Puebla intro

Puebla is the name of the state as well as its capital city. I’ll be talking about the city in this Puebla travel guide. Aside from nearby Cholula in Puebla state, I didn’t have time to explore other places in the region but there are plenty of destinations to check out. The other great thing about visiting Puebla is its close proximity to Mexico City. It only takes 2 hours by bus from the capital. Along with Taxco and Tepoztlan, it’s one of the best short trips from CDMX. I’ll explain what to do in Puebla whether you have either 1 day or 2.

Getting to Puebla

Getting to Puebla by bus – Simply board a bus from Tapo (Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente) in Mexico City. You can catch a taxi there from your accommodation or catch the Metro for 5 pesos to San Lazaro Station which connects to the bus terminal. Buses to Puebla from Mexico City depart every 30 minutes and cost around 250 pesos ($13) each way when booking on Busbud . The journey takes just 2 hours. Getting to Puebla by day tour – while are many things to see in Puebla Mexico and I’d recommend spending 2 days if possible, you can take an organised day tour if time’s tight. I’d opt for this full-day tour from CDMX to Puebla and Cholula .

Where to stay in Puebla

• Budget hotel – Hotel Isabel ($39)
• Splash out hotel – Hotel Boutique Casareyna ($97)
• Hostel – I stayed at Posada Vee Yuu (from $8) which is a lovely, colourful hostel with spacious rooms. They organise walking tours and games nights to get to know new people.

History of Puebla

Puebla is a city with little indigenous history: it was built by the Spanish to connect their government of Vera Cruz with the capital of Mexico City. Designed and planned by the bishop (apparently based upon messages from angels, earning the nickname Puebla de los Angeles AKA City of the Angels), it’s an organised city built upon a grid of 100 blocks with many, many grand churches. The other historic event that puts Puebla on the map is the Battle of Puebla in 1862 which saw the Mexican army defeat the French, under orders of Napoleon, who were trying to capture Mexico. They were defeated on the 5th of May or Cinco De Mayo, an event now celebrated annually in Puebla and the USA.

2 days in Puebla

While you could spend way longer, many travellers visit for two days. It’s a small city yet there’s plenty to fill your Puebla itinerary. If you’ve got two days, I would recommend one of the following options:

• Spend a busy day seeing Puebla and a second taking a day trip to Cholula
• Spend both days wandering beautiful Puebla at your leisure with more time for eating and museums.

Keep reading for my ultimate 2 day Puebla itinerary.

28 things to do in Puebla Mexico

Time for me to tell you about all the very best places to visit in Puebla! I managed to squeeze all the below Puebla activities into 2 days so I can vouch that it’s possible. Here’s what to do in Puebla Mexico for foodies, culture lovers and history buffs! I’ll share the main Puebla tourist attractions as well as my favourite hidden gems.

1. Eat mole

Eating mole in its birthplace should be high on your Mexico bucket list ! Poblanos (people from Puebla) will tell you mole was invented here, although people from Oaxaca also lay claim to it. The only thing to do? Try it in both! This delicious sauce made of chocolate, chili, nuts, onion, garlic and spices. It takes an age to prepare but is worth every moment. Eat it drizzled over chicken or enchiladas.

Related tour: Puebla mole poblano cooking class and market tour

2. Take a free walking tour

I booked a fantastic free walking tour of Puebla with Estacion Mexico . It runs every day in English and Spanish from 11am and lasts 2.5 hours. Our guide was fantastic: entertaining and super knowledgeable! Not only will you learn about the history of the city and tour the key things to do in Puebla, but you’ll also learn about the regional foods. We even got to try some samples of mole sauce!

3. Browse Parian Market

This colourful artisan market is one of the best places to visit in Puebla to shop for affordable souvenirs or browse and soak up the atmosphere. Interestingly, the name El Parian is not Spanish but a Filipino word adopted during Spanish colonial rule. The market was still quiet when I walked through at 10am so you should visit after lunch for the best atmosphere. Don’t forget to haggle; the vendors expect it.

4. Visit the Artist’s Quarter

Just across the road from Parian Market is the Artist’s Quarter. Here, small galleries display their work beside a cobbled courtyard. It’s a good spot for people-watching and wandering, especially on a sunny day. For a bohemian night and live music, visit  Cafe Gallery Amparo from 8-11pm on Saturdays (entry 25 pesos).

5. Shop for Puebla Talavera Pottery

Ornate, handpainted glazed ceramics from Puebla are famous around Mexico and the world. You’ll notice beautiful tiles on buildings in the city, earning it the nickname, ‘City of Tiles’. Although Talavera pottery originated in Spain, Poblana Talavera has been mixed with prehispanic tradition and techniques practised before the arrival of the conquistadors. The land in Puebla is some of the most fertile in Mexico thanks to the volcanos surrounding the region, resulting in quality clay. Shop for dishes, plates, vases and countless other Talavera items. There are lots of places to shop for Talavera in Puebla but you can’t do better than Uriarte Factory . Remember to check for the four marks proving it’s real showing the name, factory and location. These are painted and sealed so that if the police (acting under the Mexican Talavera Regulatory Council) rub alcohol across the mark, it doesn’t come off. Vendors can be charged with 3-5 years in jail for selling fake Talavera!

6. Learn at the Amparo Museum

One of the best things to do in Puebla for history lovers is visit the Amparo Museum of Puebla . With over 3,500 items and exhibitions on ancient Mexican, pre-Hispanic culture, and Black history of Mexico, there’s a lot to learn. I would point out that only about half the exhibits are in English. Entry is 35 pesos.

7. More museums in Puebla

Puebla is a cultural city with lots to learn about. A few museums to visit include:

Note – one Saturday, a month, the museums are free from 5-10pm. Check if your trip lines up!

• Revolution Museum – this preserved 19th-century house peppered with pellets was the site of the first battle of the 1910 Mexican Revolution. It’s worth a visit for those with a real interest in this period (and perhaps some pre-existing knowledge) as I found parts of this museum quite dry. Entry is 55 pesos.
• Museo Casa de Alfeñique – this unique Spanish house was built by the owner for his wife featuring a wedding cake-like structure on top. Inside is a small museum with art and artefacts.
• Museo Carolino – an art museum in a beautiful building with a tranquil cafe onsite. I was told it was free but found entry to be 100 pesos, perhaps because there was a Da Vinci exhibition on?
• Museo Casa del Mendrugo – this culture museum holds exhibits of pre-hispanic funeral rites, the remains of Chuchita (the oldest inhabitant of Puebla) and Talavera pottery, protected by UNESCO. Entry is 50 pesos or free on Wednesdays (and free if you eat in the restaurant).
• The museum next to Biblioteca Palafoxiana in Casa de la Cultura – I missed the name of this place but it’s a small, free museum displaying typical Poblano costumes and dress. One with a spectacular headpiece worn by men mimics the style and colour of a local bird.

8. Visit a 100-year-old shot bar

I was advised not to leave without drinking daytime shots at La Pasita . This quirky bar full of antiques and memorabilia has been serving its signature shots for decades. Don’t miss the statue dedicated to the famous local who drank 100 shots and passed away immediately after! He’s remembered as a local hero. Pop into this busy bar and rub shoulders with the locals from 1pm daily. Make sure to try the house namesake shot, a sweet brown liquid with a raisin on top and a cube of cheese inside. Sounds weird, tastes amazing!

Read next: Puebla food guide

9. Indulge on Sweet Street (Calle del Dulces)

What to do in Puebla for foodies? Gorge yourself senseless on sugar, of course! Sweet shops run the length of Calle del Dulce (Sweet Street). They sell a selection of signature sweets so you’ll see the same offerings in each store. You’ll also notice how cheap the prices are in Puebla. I bought a basket containing 12 or so little desserts for 30 pesos. If you’re looking for the best places in Puebla to pick up souvenirs, you’re onto a good one!

10. Go inside Puebla Cathedral

The second-largest cathedral in Mexico, after Mexico City Cathedral, is located in Puebla and took over 100 years to be built between 1575 and 1690. It was once the tallest cathedral in the country, but now it’s only the third tallest. Around the gates can be found 58 cherub statues, a reference to the angles who allegedly helped the Spanish bishop design the city. The Cathedral dome is designed to look like the Church of St Peter in the Vatican. This Roman Catholic church sits at the heart of the Zocalo, opening onto the large central plaza where locals sit and socialise. Visiting is one of the best things to do in Puebla whether or not you’re religious: it’s extremely impressive, laden with gold and other precious materials.

11. Other religious sites

Once the richest city in the Americas, it’s little wonder that Puebla is awash with Catholic monuments. I’m not religious so I had no interest in visiting them ALL but, since they’re some of the top attractions in Puebla, it’s worth seeing a couple even if just from the outside.

Churches to visit in Puebla include :

• Templo de Santo Domingo – the Capilla del Rosario (above right) inside this 17th-century church is even more grand and gold-gilded than the cathedral. It’s worth peeking inside, and arriving there along 5 de Mayo street which is bustling with locals rather than tourists sightseeing.
• La Compañía – a few blocks from the Zocalo, this grand Jesuit church is dedicated to the Holy Spirit. A legend says it’s the final resting place of Catarina de San Juan, an Asian slave credited with inspiring the traditional China Poblana dress style for women in Puebla.
• Church of San Cristóbal – a grand yellow church with a beautiful tiled dome on Calle de Dulces. Sweets and culture in one place!
• Ex-convento de San Francisco de Puebla – a short walk from the city centre, this church is bright and colourful from the outside, unlike the dark stone Cathedral. It was the first convent in the city, built in 1730.

12. Spot street art

For a fun and alternative activity in Puebla, go street art hunting. I was amazed by the urban art I saw in Puebla: I expected a few murals but the art was so detailed, covering whole buildings. You won’t see much street art in the historical streets of the city centre but you will find it a 5-10 minute walk away. Puebla street art locations include the streets surrounding Capilla Ecce Homo Church and the area running from the back of Puebla Secret Tunnels (Calle 4 Nte) towards Xanenetla. A new piece I found when revisiting Puebla in May 2023 is this enormous mural running along Blvd. Héroes del 5 de Mayo .

Related read: Where to find street art in Oaxaca, Mexico

13. Fall in love with Barrio de los Sapos

This beautiful callejon is one of the most attractive places in Puebla. Barrio de los Sapos translates as ‘place of the frogs’ referring to a time when the nearby river would flood, bringing amphibians to the barrio. Today, it’s frog-free and lined with colourful houses. A tour guide explained that, in Puebla, you’re not allowed to paint your house the same colour as your neighbours. The residents of Frog Alley are certainly playing by the rules!

I found a lovely cafe with a balcony overlooking this street. An antique shop hides the entrance to Panalma but, after you’ve made your way up a gorgeous yellow staircase, you reach this peaceful hidden gem.

14. Stay for the weekend markets

What to do in Puebla on weekends? Well, Barrio de los Sapos and the surrounding streets come to life with antique markets. You can buy everything from genuine antiques to tourist souvenirs, jewellery and the like. It’s a lively place with many bargains to be found!

15. Eat churros

Take a break from sightseeing in Puebla and relax with churros and chocolate. You’ll find churros, which date back to Spanish rule, in every Mexican city. Puebla has a particularly good churreria with a totally obscure name which you might struggle to figure out… Puebla La Churreria ! They serve crispy, oozy churros coated in sugar or cinnamon for 4 pesos apiece. Dunk them in hot chocolate to your heart’s content.

Read next: what to eat in Mexico – 36 traditional dishes

16. Ride the Teleférico

When it comes to Puebla sightseeing, you can’t do much better than drinking in panoramic views from a gondola-style cable car. The teleférico is located away from Puebla centre past the neighbourhood of Xananetla. Head to Parque del Paseo del Teleférico and enjoy a 10-minute ride for just 50 pesos.

17. Explore the Historic Zone of the Forts

At the top of the hill reached by the Teleferico, you can explore this large green space home to many Puebla attractions like the Museum of Evolution, the Planetarium, Guadalupe Fort Museum and numerous historical monuments. It would be easy to spend a whole day here, especially given the fantastic views over the city. There are several parks like Parque Lago de La Concordia where you can relax.

18. Estrella de Puebla

Although it’s further from the city, you may want to take a spin on this giant Ferris wheel. The views are impressive, plus you’ll glimpse the famous volcanos in the background. Estrella de Puebla is located as far from the teleférico as you can get, closeby to Angelópolis Lifestyle Center Mall and Parque del Arte. It’s open from 11am on weekends and 3.30pm on weekdays, closing at 10pm. If coming from central Puebla in a taxi, expect to pay around 60 pesos each way.

19. Try cemitas

As you’re probably realising, many of the best things to do in Puebla revolve around food! Cemitas are similar to tortas but made with a type of bread popular in Puebla. These Mexican sandwiches can be filled with a number of ingredients including quesillo (stringy cheese also sometimes known as Oaxaca cheese), milanesa, avocado and chipotle. You’ll find them all over the city but Cemitas y Tortas La Poblanita is an unbeatable spot. Expect to pay 50-90 pesos.

20. Visit Biblioteca Palafoxiana

One of the most popular attractions in Puebla is Biblioteca Palafoxiana, recognised by UNESCO as the oldest public library in the Americas. If you’re a fan of history or literature, you can pop inside this decadent library home to 45,000 books. These range from the 15th to the 20th century but the library itself was built in 1646. Entrance to Biblioteca Palafoxiana is 50 pesos or 30 for students. I wasn’t totally blown away and you’d be hard-pushed to spend more than 20 minutes here, but it’s an interesting thing to do in Puebla nonetheless. Find it upstairs in the  Casa de la Cultura .

21. Catch live music in Casa de la Cultura

At weekends, there’s live music and events in this colourful house of culture. When you enter, you can scan a QR code that will tell you the schedule for the rest of the weekend. I caught a full-scale live band with a super-talented singer during my visit.

22. Sample chile en nogada

Many cities in Mexico have speciality dishes you won’t find elsewhere. During another weekend away, I discovered unique food in Tepoztlan and the same can be said for Puebla. Chile en nogada translates as chili in walnut . As the name suggests, one giant green chili ( non -spicy ) is stuffed with a hash of apple, pear and peach, bathed in a pool of creamy walnut sauce with pomegranate seeds. Chile en nogada is a seasonal dish, usually found between April and October. But keep a beady eye out and you’ll find a few places, like Fonda Tipicana La Poblana , serving it year-round.

23. Take a day trip to Cholula

If you’ve finished sightseeing in Puebla, consider a day trip to Cholula. This small, colourful city a 40-minute drive from Puebla has been voted a Pueblo Magico (magic town). The Mexican Tourism Board have awarded 32 destinations this status as a result of their cultural charm, folklore or cuisine.

Read next: a complete guide to visiting Cholula

In Cholula, you can walk underground through Tlachihualtepetl, the Great Pyramid of Cholula built by indigenous Toltec people. Afterwards, climb up the sunny yellow church (dating back to Spanish rule) on top and look out over colourful Cholula and the volcanos behind. In Cholula Zocalo (part of Cholula San Pedro), there are more churches, museums and traditional markets to be found. In the cooler barrio of San Andrés Cholula, there are speciality coffee shops and bars due to the large student population. I’d recommend spending a whole day in Cholula or staying overnight. Getting from Puebla to Cholula: Travel by taxi (Uber or InDrive for 120-140 pesos) or local bus. Alternatively, take an organised day tour from Puebla to Cholula. Book a half-day Cholula tour or a full-day tour including Cholula and a stop in Atlixco known for chocolate making.

24. Secrets Tunnels of Puebla

One of the more unusual activities in Puebla is walking under the city through hidden walkways. These tunnels are called secret for a reason: they were built in the 1500s but only discovered in 2016. Apparently, there had been rumours of these tunnels for generations but no evidence they actually existed. When they were discovered, there were antiques and weaponry found inside, thought to date back to the Battle of Puebla with France. Walking through the tunnel network is a fun thing to do in Puebla that takes around 10 minutes . I only paid 10 pesos entry with my student card and I believe it was 30 without. You might want to hire a guide otherwise you won’t learn much about the tunnels. On a hot day, you can head inside the tunnels just to escape the heat!

25. Xanenetla

For an unusual place to visit in Puebla, take a trip to Xanenetla neighbourhood after visiting the underground tunnels. You’ll start to see colourful street art and houses, especially along Calle 4 Nte. As you get closer to Xananetla you’ll see even more. Use the Google pin for Murales de Xanenetla to begin. Note – while walking in this area, a local warned me to be careful with my camera. He presumably meant that thieves operate in the area and, while I didn’t see evidence of this myself, I thought I’d pass the message along so you can be aware. Xananetla is a hidden gem so if you’ve got 2 days in Puebla, I’d recommend exploring the area.

26. Cool down at Carmen Sodas

This cute juice bar run by a friendly old man is a lovely place to hydrate and escape the heat. There are endless juices and ice creams to try but I went with maracuya (passion fruit) soda made with fresh fruit. I later learnt that it has more than 50 years of history, open since 1945!

27. Visit Square Carolina

This is a historic corner that may be of interest to historians. It’s where Porfirio Diaz – prior to becoming president of Mexico – was held after being captured during the Battle of Puebla in 1862 before escaping. There’s even a bar named La Fuga de Don Porfirio meaning ‘the escape of Don Porfirio’. Visit for mezcal, beer and Mexcian music.

28. Climb the world’s smallest volcano

Far less volatile than Popocatépetl is Cuexcomate , a tiny inactive volcano in a quiet suburb of Puebla. It’s just 13 metres tall with a small ladder leading up it. If you’re more about tourist sights than hardcore trekking, this is a unique and easy thing to do in Puebla. It’s a 15-20 minute drive from the downtown so, if you don’t have a car, jump in an Uber.

2 day Puebla itinerary

Option #1 including Cholula: Day 1: Explore the main tourist attractions in Puebla Mexico today, starting by wandering the streets and markets around the Cathedral and Church of Santo Domingo. Visit the Amparo Museum and Biblioteca Palafoxiana before stopping for lunch of chile en nogada , a cemita or mole. For the afternoon, buy desserts on Calle de Dulces and stroll the Artist’s Quarter and Parian Market. Finish with sunset views by riding the Teleférico. Day 2: Take a day trip to Cholula. Visit the Great Pyramid of Cholula and walk up the hill to Our Lady of Remedies Church. Explore the Zocalo, eat at Mercado Municipal San Pedro Cholula (the local market) and visit churches including Templo de San Gabriel. If you stay for the evening, there are lots of bars like Jazzatlan with beer gardens for traditional Mexican drinks and spirits.

Puebla itinerary option #2 (not including Cholula) Day 1: Begin your day by wandering the streets and squares of Puebla and getting a feel for the city. Grab chile en nomads for lunch at Fonda Tipicana La Poblana and wander the Artists Quarter and Parian Market. In the afternoon, visit the Secret Tunnels and walk further to Xananetla for street art spotting. Day 2: Indulge in some cultural activities in Puebla by visiting the Amparo Museum and Biblioteca Palafoxiana. Grab a cemita for lunch and indulge in dessert along Calle de Dulces. Take a ride on the Estrella or Teleférico. Try signature shots at La Pasita (before it closes at 5.30pm) and eat mole for dinner somewhere local like Fonda de Santa Clara .

General pack list

• Jeans, t-shirts, dresses, shorts – relaxed summer clothes are appropriate to wear in Puebla
• Layers for the evenings
• Comfy shoes – there are lots of cobbles!
• The latest copy of Lonely Planet Mexico
• A Lonely Planet Mexican Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary
• A stainless steel reusable water bottle with straw lid to reduce the use of plastic bottles
• Alternatively, a filtering water bottle that allows you to safely drink tap water
• Metal straw kit with straw cleaner and cloth bag
• A handy bum bag with secure zip
• Travel luggage: Osprey Farpoint backpack ( men’s ) ( women’s )
• Solo photography pick: Manfrotto tripod and Joby Gorillapod
• A GoPro if you’re making videos – I use the HERO8 Black

I hope you enjoy these Puebla Mexico things to do!

If you have a better idea of what to see in Puebla and how to plan a trip, please save and share this post!

Check out my other Mexico blogs:

• The ultimate 5 day Mexico City itinerary
• Solo female travel to Mexico City
• How to visit San Miguel and what to do there
• Complete bucket list for Mexico
• Solo female travel in Mexico
• 23 Mexico City travel tips
• Things to do in Coyoacan, Mexico City
• Visiting Xochimilco Mexico City
• Visiting Hierve el Agua from Oaxaca
• Oaxaca Day of the Dead guide
• Best food in Tepoztlan Mexico

VISITING MEXICO? These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – the quickest (and often cheapest) way to travel between Mexican cities is by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Getting around by bus (environmental option) – buses in Mexico are comfy with free snacks and an in-journey entertainment system. I use Busbud to find the best prices. Driving in Mexico – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in Mexico (and all around the world). For hotels and apartments, I use Booking.com . They have a wide range of accommodation for all budgets, plus the loyalty programme gives you discounts and upgrades. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . Hostels in Mexico are great for meeting other travellers. To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. I use GetYourGuide for tours & activities when I don’t want to travel solo. I also check Viator as they often have fun & unique options. EatWith – your one-stop for Mexico food tours, cooking classes and hosted meals with local chefs and foodies. Pick up the latest copy of Lonely Planet Mexico . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips from 10+ years of travel!

See you next time for more adventures,

Liked these Puebla attractions? Pin this for later !

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

2 thoughts on “ 28 Best Things To Do In Puebla, Mexico For 1-2 Days ”

Thank you Rose for an excellent introduction to Puebla. We now know how to fill our two days there next February. You’ve made it easy!

Hey Eloise. Glad it helped! Puebla is a beautiful city – enjoy !

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12 Best Things to Do in Puebla City, Mexico

By Lauren Bailey · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Puebla City in Central Mexico is probably one of Mexico’s most underrated cities. It may only be the fourth largest in the country, but its decadent cuisine, iconic Talavera pottery, and fascinating mix of Baroque, Renaissance, and Classic architecture make it well worth the journey.

Tucked within the mountain-and-volcano-clad Valley of Cuetlaxcoapan, Puebla is dubbed the ‘cradle of Mexican Baroque’. One of the best things to do in Puebla City is to visit its many religious and historical wonders from monasteries and mansions to museums and art galleries. In fact, it’s believed to have as many as 365 churches – one to mark every day of the year!

12. Volcan el Cuexcomate

Volcan el Cuexcomate (the Cuexcomate Volcano) is the smallest volcano on Earth, despite not technically being classified as a volcano. Located in the neighborhood of Libertad, it’s actually an inactive geyser with an interior that can be explored via a metal staircase.

According to local legend, Cuexcomate is believed to be the love child of two volcanoes: the Iztaccihuatl and the Popocatepetl volcano. As far as history goes, though, it was actually formed as a result of the buildup of hydrogen sulfide after the Popocatepetl Volcano erupted back in 1064.

Back in its hey-day, the geyser was used as a place to dispose of the city’s trash and the bodies of people who had committed suicide, as they weren’t considered worthy of an appropriate burial.

11. Museo Internacional del Barroco

The Museo Internacional del Barroco (the International Museum of the Baroque) is a peculiar-shaped museum dedicated to all that is Baroque art. Designed by Toyo Ito, a Japanese architect, to be earthquake resistant, it’s characterized by walls of concrete, glass, reflective pools, and plenty of natural light.

The Baroque style was popular between 1598 and 1752, and the museum showcases all the features of this unusual period through artwork, theater shows, literature, traditional costumes, music, and dance.

Opened in 2016, the Museo Internacional del Barroco is still fairly new. You can spend hours browsing the many exhibitions, both temporary and permanent, with everything from paintings and sculptures, to installations and interactive displays that tell the tales of the Baroque era.

10. Africam Safari

Africam Safari is a safari park on the outskirts of Puebla City. Opened to the public in 1972, it was initially the private animal farm of Captain Carlos Camacho Espíritu, a famous Mexican businessman. It was named after a combination of his surname and Africa, where most of the animals originally came from.

Today, the safari park boasts a variety of different ecosystems and natural habitats where the animals can roam freely. About 2,500 animals of 350 different species call the park home, including giraffes, Asian water buffalo, African elephants, white rhinoceros, American black bear, and Nubian ibex – to name just a few.

Don’t miss the Adventure Zone – a car-free area where visitors can explore a butterfly park, a herpetarium, an insectarium, a botanical garden, as well as kangaroo and bat exhibits. Other highlights of the park include bird shows, a zip line, and the Nocturnal Safari, where you can explore the park at night when the animals are most active.

9. Estrella de Puebla

The Estrella de Puebla (the Star of Puebla) is Mexico’s alternative to the United Kingdom’s London Eye. This massive observation wheel offers some of the best views over Puebla City with its 30-minute rotation.

Once the largest observation wheel in the world at the time it was built, the Estrella de Puebla remains the tallest of its kind in Latin America. It runs every day of the week but is especially spectacular at night when the city is lit up beneath you. A full rotation lasts half an hour and is a great way to see the city’s famous landmarks and volcanoes.

Inside the Linear Park complex that houses the Star of Puebla, you’ll also find the Art Park, the Metropolitan Park, and the Atoyac River Walk.

8. Cantona Ruins

The Cantona ruins are a Mesoamerican archaeological site located around an hour’s drive from Puebla, Mexico. While excavations have begun, it’s believed that less than 10% of the original ancient city can be seen today – from cobblestone causeways, patios, and private residences to ball courts, temples, and an acropolis.

During its hey-day, Cantona was a walled city on a prominent trading route between the Gulf Coast and the Central Highlands. Spread across three separate sections, it was considered one of the largest and most modern cities in pre-Hispanic times during its prime.

The town was at its busiest between 600 and 1,000 CE. It was then abandoned after 1,050 AD. Cantona highlights include the Earth Fertility Plaza and the on-site museum.

7. Church of Santo Domingo

The Church of Santo Domingo, now known as the Kewa Puebla, is a historic mission church in Puebla. First built back in 1607, the church was initially destroyed by locals as a sign of rebellion during the Spanish invasion. It was then rebuilt by Fray Antonio Zamora in the 1700s but destroyed again by floods.

Santo Domingo went ten years without a church in the town; the current-day Santo Domingo Church was only rebuilt in 1886 and designed in the same style as the original church. Visitors can now explore the interior of the historic church when they visit Kewa Puebla. Don’t miss the arts and crafts fair held over Labour Day and the various festivities held over Christmas.

6. Fuertes de Loreto

The 18th-century Fuertes de Loreto (Fort Loreto) is a historical military landmark and fortress in Puebla City. Initially built as a religious shrine in the 1600s, it was fortified two centuries later when it served as the site of one of the most famous battles in Mexican history – one that’s now marked with the annual Cinco de Mayo.

Visitors can brush up on their knowledge of the notorious Battle of Puebla in the Museum of Non-Intervention. Exhibits include letters, documents, and paintings of the infamous battle, as well as old military uniforms and weapons. There’s also an exhibit on Benito Juarez, the first Mexican president.

While you’re here, visit the surrounding Centro Civico Cinco de Mayo park with its soccer stadium, planetarium, playing fields, and Museo Imagina.

5. Museo Amparo

The Museo Amparo (the Amparo Museum) is one of Mexico’s most iconic historical museums. Spread across two colonial buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries (one, a former hospital), the museum details Mexico’s fascinating history with pre-Hispanic, modern and colonial artwork, as well as ceramics, pottery, and ancient murals.

Mesoamerican artifacts include the Mayan stelae, a variety of old-world furniture, and hundred-year-old retablos. When you’ve had your fill of Mexican history, stop for a refreshment on the rooftop café terrace. Guided tours are available.

4. Biblioteca Palafoxiana

The Biblioteca Palafoxiana is an important public library in the center of Puebla. In fact, as it was established in 1646, it’s the oldest public library in the Americas. Inside, you can discover over 41,000 pieces of Mexican and international literature from books to manuscripts, many of which date back to the 15th-century.

While the library has been damaged by two 1999 earthquakes, it’s managed to survive, and its 2003 rebuild is the perfect place for a quiet read. Three layers of bookshelves made from carved cedar, coloyote wood, and white pine surround the walls. The most interesting finds include the earliest New World dictionaries and the 1493 Nuremberg Chronicle.

3. Callejon de los Sapos

The Callejon de los Sapos (the Alley of the Toads or the Toad Quarter), is one of Puebla’s most famous streets, characterized by bright yellow, orange, and blue buildings.

Its unusual name stems from colonial times when the San Francisco River flooded its banks onto 6th South Street. To take advantage of the excess water, the locals built mills along the Callejon de los Sapos, which in turn brought an abundance of toads to the area. While not many toads remain today, there is a toad fountain that pays tribute to the street’s unique history.

A major highlight is the Toad Alley Market, where you can find antique books, iconic Talavera pottery, and other interesting treasures on Sunday mornings. Visit on a Friday or Saturday night and you can soak up the music and laidback atmosphere.

The tree-lined Zocalo is the most famous central square in Puebla, Mexico. This park-cum-plaza was originally built in the shape of a rectangle but was redesigned in the shape of a square as it was considered more attractive.

The plaza served as the main market for Puebla up until the late 18th-century, and bullfights were famously held here from 1566 to 1722.

Today, the square is the site of many cultural and political events, and there are plenty of fascinating statues and sculptures to explore, from Jan Hendrix to Monumento al Sitio de Puebla. Don’t miss the San Miguel Arcangel Fountain (1777), the City Hall, the Casa de los Munecos, and the Puebla Cathedral.

1. Catedral de Puebla

The Catedral de Puebla (the Puebla Cathedral) is a colonial Roman Catholic church overlooking the Zocalo square in the historic center of Puebla. One of Mexico’s most sacred sites and one of its oldest churches, the Puebla Cathedral was first built back in 1575.

Constructed in a mixture of Renaissance and Baroque styles, the cathedral has a dark stone façade and two twin towers – one of which remains a bell tower. Inside, you can explore 14 chapels and an unusual octagonal altar. The dome is special in itself, as it was built to mirror that of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

Best Time to Visit Puebla City

Surrounded by scenic snow-capped mountains and volcanoes, Puebla City has a subtropical highland climate. Days rarely get super hot here with its evenings and nights cool and fresh all year round. Its dry winter months and warm springs are when most people visit.

After the monsoon rain months, October through December sees a steady increase in tourist numbers, particularly around both Dia de los Muertos and the Christmas holidays. The latter is the absolute peak season when prices are at their highest and hotels are packed. Average temperatures of 21 to 23°C (70 to 73°F) are perfect for exploring the center.

January to May remains a very popular time to visit with temperatures rising to 27°C (80°F) in April. The month-long Puebla Fair and its famous Cinco de Mayo celebrations attract huge crowds during this period. Other great events to attend nearby are the El Huey Atlixcayotl, Huejotzingo Carnival and Spring Equinox at Cholula.

Towards the end of May, the rains pick up and Puebla City sees between 15 and 16 days of rain each month until October. July and August still welcome lots of visitors though as many people have holidays. While this makes sightseeing a little less pleasant, you should be fine with a jacket or umbrella.

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1 Day in Puebla, Mexico: Itinerary with Top 25 Things to Do

Table of Contents

What to do and see in Puebla

Just 1.5 hours from Mexico City ,  Puebla  sits  at an altitude of 2,135 m in the mountains between the Popocatépetl, Iztaccíhuatl and La Malinche volcanoes.

Also called   Heroica Puebla de Zaragoza –  in reference to its important historical past  –  or  Puebla de los Angeles , it is the capital of the  state of Puebla .

It is a pretty  colonial town  known for its colorful facades, its typical pottery, as well as its historical and cultural wealth. There is so much to see and do in Puebla!

So that you don’t miss anything during your stay, here is my ultimate guide with the  25 must-see places of interest in Puebla  and its surroundings, the best  activities to do with children .

To help you organize your stay, I have also added all the practical information for  getting to Puebla , a suggested itinerary for  a day in Puebla,  and my recommendations for restaurants and  hotels for all budgets .

So what to do in Puebla?

1. The Zocalos 

Of course, it is impossible to miss the  zocalo of Puebla  which is the heart of the historic center, declared  a World Heritage Site by Unesco .

Since the founding of the city in the 16th century, it has always represented the center of  Puebla,  as evidenced by the important buildings found there (the cathedral, the municipal palace), as well as the restaurants, shops, cafes that surround.

The square also regularly hosts various events and shows. One way or another, we eventually arrive at the square!

At the  Municipal Palace  (Portal Hidalgo 14) you will also find  tourist information about Puebla  with maps, etc. Practical!

2. The Cathedral

The  cathedral-basilica , of its full name  Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Inmaculada Concepción , is to be visited in Puebla: it is still the  2nd largest cathedral in  Mexico !

Built between the 16th and 17th centuries, with a Renaissance-style facade and a Baroque interior, there are numerous paintings, sculptures, goldwork objects, three organs and impressive woodwork.

The  Altar de los Reyes  altar particularly impressed me for the richness of its details!

• Mon-Sat 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Free admission

3. Chapel of the Rosary

In  Puebla , more than the cathedral, it is the  Capilla del Rosario  of the  Santo Domingo Temple  (1650-1690) which is a real gem.

It is considered  the finest example of Mexican Baroque  and you quickly understand why upon entering: here everything is richly decorated from floor to ceiling, very laden and covered with  24-carat  gold leaf .

The walls are decorated with large paintings by José Rodriguez Carnero and talaveras typical of  Puebla .

I love churches, I have visited many in my life, but rarely one as  richly decorated  as this one. With the exception of the  Church of the Company of Jesus  in  Quito  , it still offers strong competition with its gold-covered interior.

• Address: 5 de Mayo coin 4 Poniente #101, Puebla
• Tue to Thu 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Sun 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• FREE ENTRANCE

4. Palafoxiana Library

On the 2nd  floor  of the  Casa de Cultura de Puebla , in a magnificent vaulted  room , is the  Biblioteca Palafoxiana   : with its  43,000 volumes  (from the 15th  to  the  20th century), it is the  1st public library on the American continent.

Indeed, Bishop  Juan de Palafox y Mendoza  donated his personal library of 5000 volumes to the schools of San Pedro and San Juan, on the condition that the collection be  accessible to anyone who can read . A very modern decision for the 17th  century !

It was in 1981 that the library ceased to be public to become a museum, it is definitely  worth seeing in Puebla  for its historical importance and the beauty of the place.

• Address: 5 Oriente 5, coin September 16, Puebla.
• Tue-Thu 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fri-Sun 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entrance 45 pesos
• Facebook page 

5. Amparo Museum

The Amparo Museum is  a must in Puebla . Located in a palace and a hospital from the  colonial era,  it houses a  large collection of Mexican art  : 7 rooms on the pre-Hispanic era, 3 rooms on the viceroyalty era and the 19th  century , as well as exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.

There are also temporary exhibitions of national and international artists.

I really recommend that you  download the free Amparo Plus application  (  Android ,  iOS  ) which provides information on the exhibitions (audio, video).

You can also  go up to the terrace . There is a café with a beautiful view, ideal for  taking photos of the historic center!

You can eat  breakfast  there (Wed-Mon 9am to 12.30pm) as well as  have a drink in the evening  (Fri-Sat until 10pm). There are even  concerts  from time to time, check the museum’s website.

• Address: Avenida 2 Sur 708, Centro, Puebla.
• open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except Tuesday closed.
• entry 85 pesos

6. The Gastronomy of Puebla

Puebla cuisine  is famous throughout  Mexico!  It is the place of origin of the famous  mole poblano , a sauce made from different chili peppers, chocolate and spices, and usually served with chicken.

Another iconic dish is  chile en nogada , a chili pepper stuffed with meat and fruit, topped with a walnut sauce and sprinkled with a few pomegranate seeds. The colors are reminiscent  of the flag of Mexico  – green, white, red – and are therefore widely offered by restaurants in September, independence month.

And of course the  street food of Puebla  also has some nice surprises in store:  cemitas , Arabic tacos, chalupas.

Personally I particularly like  cemitas  which are tortas (sandwiches) with avocado, cheese, onion, meat, papalo (a very common herb in Mexico), red sauce, all served in a bun with sesame seeds.

To get the  full experience , I recommend taking this   food tour of Puebla.

7. Sucreries of Sweets Street

Impossible to visit Puebla without tasting its famous sweets!

Made since colonial times, “dulces de Puebla” are so important that they even have their own street: Calle  6 Oriente , nicknamed Calle de los Dulces (or Calle del Dulce) in the historic center.

There is a very wide variety of sweets, but the most famous in Puebla are camotes, macarrones, muégano, jamoncillo, borrachitos, cocadas, limones rellenos de coco (lemons with coconut), alegrias and tortas de Santa Clara, my favorites.

These are tartlets that look like biscuits, created during the colony by the nuns of the Santa Clara convent.

Go take a trip to  Gran Fama , the first confectionery to open its doors in the 19th century and  Dulceria Santa Clara  which is another Puebla institution, open since 1907.

8. Museum of the Revolution

It is the house of the 4  Serdan  brothers (Carmen, Natalia, Aquiles and Maximo) who joined the revolutionary movement led by Francisco Madero against Porfirio Diaz in 1910. The place is considered the  cradle of the  Mexican Revolution  and the facade still preserves numerous bullet marks.

There are 26 rooms on 2 floors where we discover the daily life of the family and different aspects of the revolution (documents, photographs, weapons, objects)

• Address: Av 6 Ote 206, Centro, Puebla
• Tue-Thu 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fri-Sun 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Entrance 40 pesos or 20 pesos for ages 12 and under

9. The Talaveras

It’s impossible to miss talavera  ,  this  Puebla pottery  that has made the city famous since the 17th  century . The creations are mainly plates, vases, jars and figurines, but we also find talavera  de Puebla   in the form of   earthenware   for walls and facades (like the famous   Casa de los Azulejos  in  Mexico City  ).

For a fine example of a  building with talaveras in Puebla , take a trip to the   Casa de los Muñecos , “the House of the Dolls” (2 Norte #4, Puebla). The 16 ceramic  images  that adorn the facade are said to represent the councilors of the time who opposed the construction of the building because the owner wanted it to be higher than the town hall.

You can also go to the  San Francisco Church  (Address: 14 Oriente corner Blvd. 5 de Mayo, Puebla) which is  the oldest convent in Puebla , and whose facade is covered with it. It is surprising!

You can discover the  manufacturing process  – which lasts on average 3 months and can even go up to 6 months! – in certain  workshops  which offer  guided tours . For example, I recommend  Casa Uriarte  (4 Poniente #911, Puebla), the oldest workshop in the city, which has been operational since 1824.

10. Taste the Ancho Reyes

Ancho Reyes  is a liqueur made in  Puebla  made from  chile ancho , the dried poblano pepper.

It’s a product that I find interesting, both sweet and spicy, with a smoky taste. At 40% alcohol, I prefer to drink it in a cocktail rather than on its own or over ice, but that’s a matter of taste.

In the 1920s, artists and intellectuals consumed a similar liquor in Puebla. It is therefore a kind of homage to this tradition.

Ancho Reyes is quite easy to find if you want to taste it, but to learn more it is possible to visit the distillery which is located in the very center of  Puebla !

• Address: Av 12 Pte 912B, San Pablo de los Frailes, Puebla
• Free visit (1h30), Wednesday, Thursday and Friday  by booking on the website

11. El Parian Handicraft Market

El Parian is  the best place in Puebla to buy talaveras  (and even handicrafts in general) while there are around a hundred small shops offering all kinds of traditional handicrafts, talaveras, leather, textiles, jewelry, sweets, pottery, wooden objects, etc.

It is considered the  very first craft market in Puebla , while its first activities date back to 1760!

• Address: Calle 6 Norte #205, Puebla
• Every day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

I advise you to take the opportunity to see the  Casa de Alfeñique  (Av 4 Oriente 416, 46 pesos entry, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – closed Monday) which is very close to  Parian .

It is a large 18th century colonial house converted into a museum in 1926 (the first museum in Puebla!). It is a very beautiful example of the  Alfeñic style,  which owes its name to the typical sweet of the same name made from sugar and egg white.

12. Street of Toads

Toads  ‘ Alley owes its funny name to a flood: it seems that at the time of the colony, the waters of the  San Francisco River  regularly overflowed, which caused flooding.

Some then decided to take advantage of the situation by installing windmills, which ended up attracting a lot of toads because of the stagnant water!

Today, it is a charming little pedestrian street lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and shops.

Friday and Saturday evenings it’s a good place to  have a drink  and listen to music, but  Sunday  is the unmissable day: from 10 a.m., it’s the big  market  with antiques, crafts, and all kinds of ‘objects.

13. Explore the secret tunnels of Puebla

This is an absolutely must-do activity  in Puebla !

It is an  underground network built between the 17th and 19th centuries.  composed of several tunnels and which was only discovered in 2014.

It is believed that it would have connected different strategic buildings and churches, and served for the transport of treasure, a hiding place, a discreet passage for politicians, etc.

The hypotheses are rife. What is known is that a portion was used as a weapons and ammunition warehouse by Mexican troops during the French  intervention in Mexico  in 1862.

It has been partly renovated and is now  open to the public.

Today we enter by the  Puente de Ovando , we pass by the  Puente de Bubas , we visit a few rooms and we end with the  Pasaje Historico 5 de Mayo  which is 5m deep. It is this set that has been nicknamed “Los Secretos de Puebla”, but it is estimated that the network in its entirety should be spread over  10km .

• Entrance 30 pesos
• Tuesday to Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Address: Blvrd Héroes del 5 de Mayo 8, Barrio de La Luz, Puebla

14. Analco Neighborhood

Founded in 1560, the  Barrio Analco  is one of the oldest in  Puebla . Its name means “across the river”. It is now best known for the  tianguis , its  market  held there on Saturdays and Sundays.

There are mainly crafts  (  wooden, silver, etc.) but also clothing, furniture, and even several food stalls.

This is the place where many Poblanos, but also Mexican tourists, meet.

15. Forts of Puebla

The famous  “Cinco de Mayo”  celebration commemorates the  Battle of Puebla  which took place on May 5, 1862, when the Mexican forces led by Ignacio Zaragoza won against the French who were much more numerous.

Fort  Loreto  (which hosts a  museum  open Tuesday to Friday, 70 pesos) and  Fort Guadalupe  are two must-see buildings in Puebla. These are emblems of this important battle which allow us to learn more about this part of history.

Also in the same park you can take the  Puebla  cable car  at 58m height for a view of the city! Ticket 57 pesos round trip.

16.  Street Art in Xanenetla

The  Xanenetla neighborhood  has undergone quite a transformation!

A few years ago, it was better to avoid it because of the insecurity, but today it is a tourist area, clean, and which is a real labyrinth of small streets with some 75 colorful murals  !

We owe the initiative to  Colectivo Tomate , a group of artists who have beautified several cities in  Mexico  through their  Ciudad Mural  project . And what’s fascinating is that they always incorporate local cultural elements.

I was also very impressed by their intervention in  La Paz in Baja California Sur   with whales, sea turtles, etc. Here in  Puebla , we find roosters, virgins, flowers for example.

17. Take a Free Tour of Puebla

There is a  Free Walking Tour  which allows you to take a  free  overview of the  must-see attractions of Puebla  (the cathedral, Capilla del Rosario, Biblioteca Palafoxiana, Barrio del artista, Calle del dulce, Church of San Francisco, etc.),  in exchange for a tip  of course!

It’s a good way to  visit Puebla on the cheap , and having made several visits with  Estacion  Mexico , I can confirm that it’s always full and you don’t have time to get bored.

• Departure every day at 11 a.m. from the Zocalo –  Book here

18. Take a Tour Bus Ride

If you only have  a short time in Puebla , taking the  tourist bus  is a very good option to see as much as possible!

It’s a 55-minute tour, which passes by the  main attractions of Puebla  : the cathedral, the municipal palace, the library, the Los Sapos and Analco markets, the Palace of Congresses, the forts, the theater and the Calle de los Dulces.

It’s also a good way to  start your visit to the city  (departure at 10am) to identify what interests you. And what’s more, it’s  really not expensive !

19. International Baroque Museum

It’s the dream museum in a city that contains so many beautiful examples of  Latin American Baroque !

Its surprising structure was built by the Japanese architect  Toyō Itō  and contains several temporary exhibition rooms as well as  7 permanent rooms  which address different Baroque themes (architecture, painting, theater, music, clothing, etc.).

It is a modern museum that is far from boring, there are several touch screens and video mapping to make everything more interactive. I recommend that you allow around  2 hours for the visit  because it is large.

• Atlixcayotl Territorial Reserve, 2501, Puebla
• Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Prix: 80 pesos

20. Descend into the Smallest Volcano in the World

A 15-minute drive from the  Zocalo , in Colonia Libertad, is  Cuexcomate  : the  smallest volcano in the world !

At least that’s what everyone says, but this small volcano is actually a  geyser  (13m high, 23m in diameter and 17m deep), created following an eruption of  Popocatépetl  in 1064, and which is today inactive today.

It is surprising to see this mound in the middle of the city, and it is even possible to go down to the bottom of the crater with stairs!

• Address 2 Poniente and Town Hall of Colonia La Libertad
• Admission: 14 pesos
• Open Monday to Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Around Puebla

21. cholula.

Cholula  is on the outskirts of the  city of Puebla , between  San Pedro Cholula  and  San Andrés Cholula . It was an important place for the  Toltecs  who built  the largest ceremonial center in the region there  around 500 BC.

Today Cholula has been recognized as a “ magic pueblo ” for its various tourist attractions and its charm.

What to see in Cholula:

-Great Pyramid of Cholula  : also known as the Tepanapa or Tlachihualtépetl pyramid, it is the pyramid with  the largest base in the world  (400m side!) and  the largest volume in the world  (4,500,000 m³). It is crossed by 8km of interior galleries that you can walk through to discover the different stages of construction and its murals.

-Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios  : it is the religious building built in the 16th century above the pyramid and remodeled in the 19th century.

-The site museum  : located on one side of the pyramid, it presents the development of the city since pre-Hispanic times, as well as an exhibition with ceramics, models, paintings, artifacts, etc.

• How to visit Cholula from Puebla  : 20-30 min by car, taxi (from Terminal CAPU or Terminal 4 Poniente) or by bus (departure from Terminal 6 Poniente)
• How to visit Cholula from  Mexico City  : You can also take a tour that includes   Puebla and Cholula .  Book the visit here.

22. Zacatlan and Chignahuapan

These are two villages located 2h15 from Puebla which are also worth the detour for the surrounding landscape because the  Sierra de Puebla  is magnificent!

I suggest you make a stop along the way at the  Cascada de Quetzalapan , also called “Salto de Quetzalapan” because it is one of the highest falls in the state of Puebla (100m).

A little further away is also the  Centro Recreativo Cascadas Tulimán  divided into 3 areas with different activities: hiking trails that run along the two rivers then arrive at the waterfalls, local food, suspension bridge, natural hot water pools, zip line.

Also, you can observe the “   Barranca de los Jilgueros   ” a 400m deep ravine from its glass viewpoint. Green and covered in mist due to its tropical climate, it offers a very pretty natural spectacle.

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

There is also the “   Museo del Reloj  ”, the Wine Museum, the former Franciscan convent.

Chignahuapan  is mainly known for its  Christmas ornaments ! In fact they are made here by hand and it is an opportunity to bring back a nice souvenir.

You can also see the  Basilica of the Immaculate Conception  with its 12m virgin and  its main square  with a colorful Moorish style kiosk.

23.  Cuetzalan

3 hours from  Puebla  is the picturesque village of  Cuetzalan . Its name means “the place where  quetzals  are numerous”. This is perhaps why the typical clothes of the region’s women are among  the prettiest in Mexico!

Here’s what  to see in Cuetzalan :

-The  parish of Francisco  built in the 17th century, and which is the emblem of the city

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

-The  archaeological zone of Yohualichan  (3rd-9th century) means “the house of the night” in Nahuatl. The site was inhabited by several cultures including the Totonacs who then built El Tajin (State of Veracruz) on the same model and which became one of the most important cities in Mesoamerica.

-Its  many waterfalls  (there are about thirty!): there are several activities to do such as abseiling or zip-lining at Cascada El Salto, walking to arrive in front of the magnificent waterfall of Las Golondrinas

–  Poza Pata de Perro  : you can swim in this rock formation with natural wells filled with water

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

Go to Cuetzalan

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

24. Cactus Botanical Garden

In the  Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve , in the community of  Zapotitlán Salinas  2 hours from the city of Puebla, is the  Helia Bravo Hollis Botanical Garden .

It was named in honor of  Helia Bravo Hollis , a great Mexican botanist who dedicated her life to the study of cacti.

It is a  protected natural area  of ​​100 hectares which contains more than  100 species of cacti , several of which are endemic and threatened with extinction. Some reach up to 10m in height and are 200 years old!

On site, you can follow  interpretive trails  that allow you to discover their medicinal and food properties, and what their use was in pre-Hispanic times.

There are also several bird  watching excursions , among other things to be able to spot the  eagles  which patiently fly around while waiting to spot their food.

25. Atlixco

Located at the foot of the  Popocatéptl volcano , Atlixco is known for its temperate climate and its important  floral  production . It is not for nothing that it is also called “Atlixco de las Flores”!

We walk with pleasure in its small streets with pretty colorful buildings, its markets, its craft shops, its restaurants with terrace.

In the main square is the  Ex-Convent del Carmen  which dates from the 16th century. Along with the San Francisco and Santa Clara convents, these are the three most important religious buildings in Atlixco, but my favorite is the  Iglesia de la Merced  for its superb Baroque façade.

What to do in Puebla with children

There are also several activities  to do with the family in Puebla , here are some suggestions:

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

2. Africam Safari  : this is the  best activity to do with children in Puebla . There are 350 different species in (semi) freedom and you can cross the land peacefully by car, following the paths, and above all avoiding disturbing them. There is a section accessible only on foot to discover, among other things, a botanical garden and an insectarium. – You can  buy your tickets here !

3. ArboTerra  : it is an interactive conservation project that is home to around fifty different species, mainly birds. There is also a tree house there. Total visit about 1 hour. It is an ideal place to  visit with the family in Puebla , because in addition there is a thematic restaurant on site.  Website , Wednesday to Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

4. Rescate Tactico  : This is a laser tag game in which two teams compete to defend elephants or steal them to resell the tusks in Asia. Of course it’s only a game, but the decor is well done!  Website , Mon-Fri 1pm-9pm, Sat-Sun 11am-9pm

5. Estrella de Puebla  : 80m tall, it’s   the biggest Ferris wheel in Latin America ! When the sky is clear you can even see the Popocatéptl, Iztaccíhuatl, Pico de Orizaba and La Malinche volcanoes! Admission 40 pesos, open from 4 p.m. – Temporarily closed

6. Museo de la Evolución  : This is a large museum dedicated to science, technology and ecology. There are around twenty exhibitions in several thematic rooms which deal with the universe, dinosaurs and the evolution of human beings. Admission 45 pesos adult and under 12 23 pesos, Tue-Thu 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fri-Sun 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

7. Planetarium  : right next to the Museum of Evolution, with interactive games, and an OMNIMAX dome showing screenings Tuesday through Sunday at 12pm, 2pm, 4pm and 6pm.  Facebook page

Accommodation in Puebla – The best hotels

There are hotels for  all budgets in Puebla , but know that it’s a good idea 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!

• NH Puebla Centro Histórico : here is a hotel in the historic center, roof terrace with swimming pool, gym, parking, good wifi and buffet breakfast included.  From 45 euros per night!
• Hotel Santiago : practically around the corner from the zócalo, with a roof terrace that offers a beautiful view of the cathedral.  Room from only 52 euros per night!
• Hotel Boutique Casareyna : this is a good option if you are looking for more comfort. It is a  16th century mansion  located just off the Puente de Bubas, transformed into an  upscale  hotel that offers spacious rooms, a  swimming pool and jacuzzi on the roof,  a gym, and a spa.  Free parking  and hearty breakfast included.  From just 107 euros per night!
• Banyan Tree Puebla : this is my  favorite hotel in Puebla , perfect for a  romantic getaway  or simply to enjoy luxury comfort in the heart of the city. Terrace with garden, swimming pool and spa on the roof with views of the volcanoes, elegant restaurant, very good breakfast. From  208 euros per night

To see all  hotels in Puebla , you can also click here.

How long to visit Puebla?

The ideal is to spend  one or two days in the city of Puebla . If you want to discover the other attractions in the state of Puebla, you will of course need more time.

Here is my itinerary suggestion to  see the maximum in 1 day in Puebla.

What to do in Puebla in 1 day?

It is easy to  visit Puebla in one day , at least its historic center, since the  main tourist attractions  are all nearby.

• Morning start with the  Zocalo  (main square) and the Cathedral
• Continue to  Palafoxiana Library
• Continue to the  Amparo Museum . Don’t forget to go up to the terrace for the view, and why not, for a coffee
• Discover the  Callejon de los Sapos
• To buy some souvenirs, you can then go to the  Marché el Parian
• Walk through the  Barrio del Artista
• Buy some typical sweets on  Calle de los Dulces
• Finished for the magnificent  Capilla del Rosario

To better understand, here is the  1 day itinerary in Puebla  plotted on the map:

Where to eat in Puebla

Mercado de Sabores   : it is a market with many cheap stalls that serve local food. It’s a good place to try las  cemitas,  those huge sandwiches I mentioned above. There are several places, but I recommend  Super  Cemitas Alex!

Los Globos  : located very close to the zocalo, this is an inexpensive restaurant in Puebla where you can taste typical dishes (like mole  poblano  ). Calle 2 Sur 509, Puebla.

Clementina cocina Poblana  :  it’s  my big favorite in Puebla ! It’s a  small neighborhood restaurant,  run by very friendly young people, with very good quality and affordable prices. I went there with my family and we all loved our different dishes. Personally I ordered the  enchiladas tres moles  (159 pesos) and I didn’t leave a drop.

Augurio  : a nice restaurant in Puebla, to try to discover 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,  Website

How to get to Puebla

Aller from mexico to puebla.

The trip from  Mexico City to Puebla  takes 2.5 hours.

There are several bus companies to Puebla but I recommend  ADO  because 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 public holidays and weekends), and the price varies depending on the departure time (between 180-220 pesos one way)

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

You will arrive at the  CAPU bus station (Puebla)  which is 20 minutes from the center.

Here’s how to get from the terminal to the Zocalo:

• By official taxi: there are counters inside, around 100 pesos. The Uber costs a few pesos less.
• By bus: in front of the station you have to take the bus 44 (white and yellow) or the one that makes the route Boulevard – CU – Xilotzingo (beige and blue), 6 pesos the ticket

To  get from Mexico City to  Puebla by car  it takes 2 hours (140km).

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

There are two tolls:

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

To find out the up-to-date tolls, it is best to go to the  Traza tu Ruta website

3. By plane

I doubt this is the best option on such a short route, but  Volaris  and  Aeromexico  offer a few flights per week.

There is no  direct flight , there is always  1 stopover  (Monterrey, Tijuana,  Cancun  ). Sometimes there are even 2 stopovers so be careful when comparing prices.

The shortest journey I found is 4 hours, so the  plane is longer than the bus .

Hermanos Serdán International  Airport  is located 20km from the center of Puebla. Taxi costs around 330 – 400 pesos

Go from Oaxaca to Puebla

The  journey between the  city of Oaxaca  and Puebla  takes 5 hours.

Several departures with ADO and AU. Prices vary greatly (between 427 pesos and 676 pesos) depending on the schedule and duration because some routes are direct and others are not.

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

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

There are five toll booths on the road:

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

For up-to-date tolls, be sure to check out the  Traza tu Ruta website

Tourist map of Puebla

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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

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.

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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Rent a car or moto to move around Puebla and its surroundings more comfortably by dismissing predicament and avoiding traffic jams.

Searching for where to stay in Puebla or surrounding towns? Check these hotels and hostels in Puebla for all budgets and all tastes.

Puebla is known for its gastronomy, deliciously diverse cuisine. Check out these bars, cafes, and restaurants in Puebla and around.

Discover the best nightclubs and bars in Puebla. Here are some of the places for rambling around the town, letting loose, and dancing.

Find popular guided tours and excursions in Puebla and its surroundings. Book your transfer from the airport to Puebla or vice versa.

Language schools and other educational institutions & centers offering Spanish language courses and cultural programs in Mexico.

Tourist Attractions in Puebla

The city of Puebla is a place full of culture, charm, traditions, history, and beliefs… The magnificent trace of the city has made up the legend that angels built it.

Puebla is a jewel of the world’s architecture and has been able to adapt spaces and fill them with life and movement. The city is well-stocked with modern and comfortable hotels, beautiful colonial buildings, and interesting museums.

After the conquest, the City of Puebla was the first to be founded in the state, on April 16th of 1531, as a social and human experiment, in which a group of civilians headed by Fray Toribio de Benavente participated.

The majestic City of Puebla and other important cities were built with the labor and art of the Indians of the area, as well as that of enterprising Spaniards. Therefore, the area thrived with agriculture and cattle raising.

Biblioteca Palafoxiana

Located on the top floor of the College of San Juan, and today is the House of Culture. It was founded by Bishop Juan de Palafox, who donated his private library of 6,000 volumes to the Tridentine Seminary in 1646.

It is considered the first public library in the Americas and has more than 45,000 books and manuscripts, ranging from the 15th to the 20th century. Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00 hrs.

Callejón de los Sapos (Alley of the Toads)

This is a pedestrian street with a series of typical colonial houses with their gates and balconies painted in vibrant colors, that have become antique bazaars where you can purchase special and rare items.

On Sundays, there is an open flea market where the visitors will find novelties and unique pieces, a real magnet for collectors. Besides, there are several restaurants and bars to enjoy a tasty meal or the local fruit liquors.

Estrella de Puebla

Admire incredible panoramic views of Puebla when you take a ride on the largest Ferris wheel in Latin America. At almost 76 meters with 54 closed cabins (holding up to 8 people), you will have a lovely view of the city, including the impressive Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanos.

Parque de la Concordia, Legend Nights

You can enjoy a video screeing over Concordia Lake, located in the area of the Forts of Loreto.

Here you will learn about some legends of Puebla like the history of the city foundation and the arrival of China Poblana, an Asian woman who lived in Puebla, came to Mexico in 1620 as a servant and left her mark on the traditions of the Spanish colonial region with her clothing.

Ex Hacienda de Chautla

This place gathers history, beautiful architecture, natural landscapes, legends, and mystery. One of its main attractions is El Castillo (The Castle), an English-style residence built in the 19th century which overlooks the dam.

Domes of the Church of San Gabriel, Cholula

This temple is one of the oldest in Mexico since it dates back to the 15th century and is located in the main plaza of San Pedro Cholula. It is a monumental complex with a fortress appearance dedicated to the archangel San Gabriel.

The cloister area contains frescos with scenes from the life of Francis of Assisi, along with portraits of a number of Franciscan friars. It has three chapels, one of them is “Capilla Real” (Royal Chapel) with 49 domes, its construction and shape represent the Arabian mosques.

Iglesia de los Remedios in front of the Popocatépetl

The church was built on the pyramid in 1594 as a symbol of the evangelization of the Spaniards over native polytheism. The hill remains verdant on the front side, and on the other side, archeologists have excavated the pyramid’s stairways, sacrificial altars, and five miles of tunnels that are open to visitors.

After a large earthquake, it was rebuilt between 1864 and 1874. Though it’s up seemingly endless steps, the hike to the top of the hill is worth the effort. The panoramic view of Cholula, Puebla, and surrounding volcanoes is breathtaking, especially if you arrive early.

Cholula Main Plaza

Africam safari.

Puebla has the most important zoo in Latin America where there is a great variety of wild animals, as well as a great number of endemic species, and there are also some endangered species. In this spectacular zoo, the animals live free like in their natural habitat.

The zoo extends to 30 ha. at the bank of Valsequillo Lake and it is one of the largest in Mexico.

This amazing zoo and wild animal park is home to more than 3,500 animals from 300 different species. The park is divided into regions that house wildlife from Asia, Africa, and North America. Visitors can drive through the park in their cars or in the zoo bus, and mingle with the free-roaming animals.

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Is Puebla, Mexico Safe To Visit in 2024? Here’s Why Stats Say Yes, but With Caution

Here is what you need to know plus other resources for staying safe if you are questions, "Is Puebla Mexico Safe?" this summer.

Leah Jones • May 8, 2024

Traveling abroad, regardless of where you are visiting, is all about safety first and foremost . If you are planning on or interested in traveling to Puebla, Mexico, here is some information you should know ahead of time.

Mexico is a beautifully diverse country with thousands of different cultures and immense history . It is also no secret that the country has past and present issues with crime. The criminal activity involved in Mexico does not speak for all its people, but it is important to be aware of . So if you are questioning, “is Puebla, Mexico safe?” here is everything you need to know. 

Is Puebla, Mexico Safe?

Puebla, Mexico, like many places around the world, has its safety concerns. However, the state, specifically its capital Puebla City, is considered relatively safer than many other cities in Mexico. Information regarding safety concerns is accessible through resources like your country’s foreign affairs department or foreign embassies like the US Embassy in Mexico . The U.S. Department of State’s Mexico Travel Advisory is a great resource that provides details on the safety conditions of different cities, states and regions, as well as whether you should take caution when visiting or avoid visiting all together.

The Department categorizes each city/region based on four travel advisory levels:

Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Level 4: Do Not Travel

Puebla, Mexico is categorized under travel advisory level two. This means visitors are highly advised to stay informed about safety precautions and remain vigilant of their surroundings and belongings, while being assured they do not need to cancel their trip or worry excessively. 

The U.S. Department of State advises travelers to Puebla, Mexico to exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping. It continues by stating, “Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and [Lawful Permanent Residents] (LPRs) have been victims of kidnapping.” 

According to data published by Statista in April 2024 , the prevalence of crime in Puebla was 25.09 thousand people per 100,000 inhabitants in 2022. This number was found to have increased from the previous two years. In 2023, the data platform reported that robbery accounted for 43.8% of all reported crime in Puebla as of December 2022. Following robbery was domestic violence at 8.83% and incidents of physical injuries at 7.93%. In summary, the most recent data reported that Puebla has a crime rate of 25.09 thousand people per 100,000 inhabitants. 43.8% of this reported crime is robbery. 

Wayfaring News reported Pubela has a moderately high crime rate with the highest levels of risk pertaining to kidnappings, petty theft and walking alone at night. Kidnapping has become increasingly common in Mexico over the past few years. In Puebla, “express kidnapping,” where the victim is abducted for a short period of time so the captor can withdraw money from an atm, is the most common. Regarding theft, Wayfaring wrote that 23,396 theft cases, with and without violence, were reported in Puebla state in 2023. These crimes, especially those involving violence have an increased likelihood of occuring at night. Traveling alone at night is considered unsafe, even more so for women. 

Puebla is still considered safer than other cities of its size that it surrounds, including Mexico City. Police presence is high in the state, mainly in the Capital of Puebla, in order to keep locals, visitors and its historic sites/natural wonders safe. 

So is Puebla, Mexico safe? Mostly, yes. Travelers visiting Puebla should practice increased awareness of their surroundings and belongings to avoid robberies or petty theft, as well as avoid traveling alone at night at all costs. 

Safest Places To Visit in Puebla, Mexico

When traveling, make sure to stay within well-lit, popular tourist areas. This will likely leave you closer to police presence and groups of other travelers. Here are some amazing places in Puebla that regarded as must-visit places for travelers as well as relatively safe areas within the country. 

Historic Center (Centro Histórico): This area in the center of Puebla City is usually bustling with tourists and locals alike, making it generally safe due to the high levels of activity and police presence. It’s home to numerous landmarks, churches, museums and restaurants. Practice heightened awareness in high traffic areas as this is where a lot of pickpocketing can occur. 

Cholula: Located just outside Puebla’s city center, Cholula is famous for its archaeological site with the Great Pyramid of Cholula, colorful churches, and lively atmosphere. It’s generally regarded as safe, especially during daylight hours when tourists visit the archaeological zone.

Los Fuertes (Fortresses): The Fortresses of Loreto and Guadalupe, located on opposite sides of the city, offer historical significance and scenic views of Puebla. These areas are generally safe for visitors during the daytime.

Callejón de los Sapos (Alley of the Frogs): This charming alley in the historic center is famous for its antique shops and flea market. It’s generally considered safe during the daytime for shopping and browsing scam and hassle free.

How To Stay Safe in Puebla, Mexico

Here are some tips that will help you stay safe on a trip to Puebla, or any other location. These are general rules you should follow when traveling, but being extra aware of them on a trip to Puebla is advisable. 

• Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on the current safety situation in Puebla by checking local news and consulting travel advisories from reputable sources.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or tourist spots. Stay alert to any suspicious activity or individuals.
• Use Reliable Transportation: Opt for reputable transportation options like registered taxis, rideshare services, or public transportation. Avoid unmarked taxis or hitchhiking.
• Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuables secure by using a money belt or hidden pouch for important items like cash, passports, and smartphones. Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.
• Avoid Flashy Displays of Wealth: Minimize the display of expensive jewelry, cameras, or electronics, which can attract unwanted attention.
• Stay in Well-Lit Areas at Night: If you’re out after dark, stick to well-lit and populated areas. Avoid walking alone in secluded or poorly lit areas.
• Know Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers, including local police, ambulance, and your country’s embassy or consulate.
• Respect Local Customs and Laws: Familiarize yourself with local customs and laws to avoid unintentional offenses or legal troubles.
• Travel in Groups: Whenever possible, travel with companions, especially when exploring unfamiliar areas or participating in outdoor activities.
• Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels unsafe or uncomfortable, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. It’s better to err on the side of caution.

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