Puebla Travel Guide: 20 Best Things to Do & See in the Colourful Mexican City

Colour, culture and volcano views

Puebla is a special city in Mexico that we truly loved exploring.

It’s home to numerous impressive churches, interesting museums, the iconic mole poblano dish, the colourful Talavera pottery and amazing volcano views.

Puebla has beautifully preserved colonial architecture and the historic centre is even designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It’s also only a short drive from the Great Pyramid of Cholula in the charming city of Cholula.

We stayed in Puebla for five days and enjoyed discovering the city’s unique blend of culture and history, along with the delicious food.

We hope this travel guide will help you with what to do in Puebla, the best things to see, where to eat, how to get around the Mexican city and much more.

Our favourite places to stay in Puebla:

• Luxury: Cartesiano Boutique & Wellness Hotel – This beautiful colonial property features 400-year-old walls, Mexican art throughout and a stunning rooftop pool with volcano views.
• Value for money: L’Hotel Perla Boutique – A stylish option in a restored building with bright, modern rooms and a picturesque rooftop terrace with a heated pool.
• Budget: Hotel Isabel – Just steps from Puebla’s Zócalo, this well-reviewed hotel is in a historic building and offers simple yet spacious rooms.

Search for the best hotels in Puebla here (adlink).

Why visit Puebla

In our opinion, Puebla is worth visiting because of its laid-back big-city vibe and stunning Spanish Baroque architecture.

It’s one of the largest cities in Mexico, so it has museums, many churches, a fantastic food scene and lots of things to see and do – all while not feeling too busy.

The climate is also very comfortable pretty much year-round.

Although it’s only around 2 hours from Mexico City, Puebla has a different energy from the bustling capital.

We would recommend visiting both cities if you have the time!

Whether you go on a day trip or stay for a few days, here are some of the best reasons to visit Puebla.

Our top 5 reasons for visiting Puebla:

1. Historical sites and events: The well-preserved colonial centre reflects the city’s significance during the Spanish colonial period, and it was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. If you’ve heard of Cinco de Mayo, you might know it traces back to Puebla, where Mexican forces triumphed over the French army in the Battle of Puebla on 5 May 1862.
2. Architectural landmarks: Simply wandering around the city is a visual delight. Marvel at gorgeous buildings, from the Baroque-style Puebla Cathedral to the modern Museo Internacional del Barroco.
3. Culinary specialities: Puebla is famous for its gastronomy, especially for signature dishes like mole poblano and chalupas. Local markets and restaurants offer countless opportunities to savour authentic Mexican flavours alongside a variety of international cuisines.
4. Colours everywhere: From the vibrant façades lining the streets to the traditional costumes worn by dancers in the square, Puebla is a city bursting with colour. The brightly coloured Talavera ceramics originate from Puebla, and you’ll find Talavera tiles adorning buildings, along with decorative plates, bowls and various pottery pieces.
5. Churches, churches and more churches: Puebla is known for its impressive number of churches. Together with the neighbouring town of Cholula, it’s often said to have nearly 365 (symbolising one for each day of the year). While the exact number varies depending on the source, Puebla has plenty of churches for you to explore.

Where is Puebla, Mexico?

Situated in east-central Mexico, Puebla actually refers to both the state and its capital city, which share the same name.

(In this guide, we almost exclusively write about the city of Puebla.)

Puebla City, also called Puebla de Zaragoza, is one of the largest cities in Mexico, with around 1.7 million inhabitants and up to 3.5 million people in the metro area.

The state of Puebla has a population of almost 7 million people.

The best things to do in Puebla

While smaller than Mexico City, Puebla is still quite a big city and definitely offers something for everyone.

We have included the best things to see in Puebla in this travel guide so you know what to do when you visit this colourful city.

Let’s take a closer look!

1. Enjoy local vibes at the Zócalo – The heart of the city
2. Marvel at the Cathedral of Puebla – An iconic landmark in the historic centre
3. Admire the Rosario Chapel – A breathtaking golden Baroque masterpiece
4. Walk on the Street of Sweets – Mexican candies everywhere
5. Visit Museo Amparo – Discover Mexico’s rich cultural heritage
6. Buy artisanal crafts at the Parian Market – Crafts and souvenirs
7. Hang out in the Artist Quarter – A creative neighbourhood of local talent
8. Wander through the Alley of the Frogs – A picturesque street of colourful façades
9. Cool off in the tunnels of Puebla – Go underground in the historical network
10. Explore the Museum of the Baroque – A modern showcase of classical art
11. Try mole poblano – Puebla’s famous chocolate-chilli sauce
12. Enjoy the big Los Fuertes Parque – A historic park with panoramic city views
13. Visit the Convent Church of San Francisco – A unique blend of architectural styles
14. Get a bird’s-eye view from the Estrella de Puebla – A towering Ferris wheel
15. Check out the street art – Urban murals all over the city
16. Buy Talavera souvenirs – Puebla’s iconic ceramic craft
17. Step into Biblioteca Palafoxiana – The first public library in the Americas
18. Take a day trip to Cholula – Home to the world’s largest pyramid
19. Hike a volcano – Natural adventures near the city
20. Other day trips from Puebla – Exploring the treasures around the city

Map of the best things to do in Puebla

1. Enjoy local vibes at the Zócalo – The heart of the city

The main public square in Puebla is called the Zócalo (Zócalo de Puebla) and it’s a great place to start your explorations of the historic city centre (centro histórico).

When we visited the Zócalo on a sunny Sunday, it was bustling with people having fun, eating ice cream and watching dancers in gorgeous costumes!

The square is surrounded by colourful colonial buildings, shops and cafés.

And of course, the impressive Cathedral of Puebla, which we share more about below.

We loved hanging out and enjoying the lively atmosphere, the street performers and the local vendors selling handmade crafts and treats.

2. Marvel at the Cathedral of Puebla – An iconic landmark in the historic centre

As you wander around the Zócalo, you’ll quickly notice the magnificent Cathedral of Puebla (Basílica Catedral Metropolitana de Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción).

The huge Baroque-style cathedral, one of the city’s most important buildings, stands at the heart of the UNESCO-listed historic centre.

It’s a must-visit in Puebla if you ask us – and it’s free!

This impressive masterpiece is a sight to behold with its imposing towers and intricate façade that blend Herrerian (Spanish Renaissance), Baroque and Neoclassical styles.

The cathedral’s construction began in 1575 and lasted more than 150 years.

Inside, we loved the captivating array of artwork, the sculptures and the stained glass that tell the story of Puebla’s religious past.

The highlights are undoubtedly the Altar of the Kings, featuring images of holy kings and queens, and the impressive High Altar in the middle of the room.

3. Admire the Rosario Chapel – A breathtaking golden Baroque masterpiece

We have to say that the Rosario Chapel in the Church of Santo Domingo (Capilla del Rosario, Templo de Santo Domingo) is one of the most breathtaking chapels we’ve ever seen!

While it’s not huge, the Rosario Chapel contains some stunning paintings and symbols.

The chapel is home to a statue of the Virgin of the Rosary, surrounded by numerous saints, angels and martyrs – all in vibrant colours and lots of golden details.

4. Walk on the Street of Sweets – Mexican candies everywhere

Next to the Church of Santo Domingo, you can stroll through La Calle De Los Dulces (Avenida 6 Oriente) – a small pedestrian street with many candy shops where you can buy all kinds of typical Mexican sweets.

The street is filled with colour, music and excitement as locals and tourists alike gather to sample the city’s unique delicacies.

While the sweets are neither the cheapest nor the most delicious (in our opinion), it’s a cool area to visit in Puebla.

5. Visit Museo Amparo – Discover Mexico’s rich cultural heritage

Visiting the Museo Amparo in Puebla is like stepping back in time.

The combination of modern and traditional Mexican art makes it an interesting museum to visit. We liked the traditional art the most.

Museo Amparo offers a wealth of knowledge about the region’s past, from its art collection that dates back to the pre-Hispanic era to its colourful colonial architecture and pretty gardens.

If you’re looking to explore Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and learn more about its history, the Museo Amparo is the perfect place to do so.

Many signs are unfortunately only in Spanish, but if you have mobile data on your phone, you can use the Google Translate app to do live translations.

Even without English descriptions, we found the exhibits to be beautifully displayed and worth a visit.

We also thought the timeline displaying various civilisations existing simultaneously around the world was fascinating.

Additionally, we loved the café and outdoor terrace on the third floor, as they had lovely views over Puebla’s many towers – including the cathedral.

In 2026, the entrance fee was 85 pesos per person (~ 4 EUR / 5 USD) and it’s free on Sundays. We coincidentally visited on a Sunday and it was not crowded at all.

Read more about the museum, exhibitions, entrance fee and opening hours on its website.

6. Buy artisanal crafts at the Parian Market – Crafts and souvenirs

Are you looking for a unique shopping experience in Puebla? Then head to Parian Market!

It’s a colourful (we’re keeping with the theme here, aren’t we?), interesting and fun place to find some souvenirs.

Located in the heart of the historic city centre, just steps away from the Zócalo (main square), the Parian Market (El Parián) offers all kinds of handcrafted goods such as locally produced pottery, traditional clothing, jewellery, bags, musical instruments, keychains, toys, magnets and much, much more.

Among the stalls, you can also find sweets and traditional Mexican cuisine.

7. Hang out in the Artist Quarter – A creative neighbourhood of local talent

The Artist Quarter (Barrio del Artista) is an area known for its beautiful buildings and the tree-lined pedestrian street that links the Artist Quarter to the Parian Market.

This charming neighbourhood is home to numerous small art shops showcasing the works of local artisans, and it has a lovely creative atmosphere.

Some of the artists were painting in front of their studios when we wandered around the area.

8. Wander through the Alley of the Frogs – A picturesque street of colourful façades

By now, you’ve likely observed that Puebla is a colourful city, and the façades in the Alley of the Frogs certainly live up to that reputation.

Callejón de los Sapos (meaning Alley of the Frogs) is a street lined with restaurants, bars, coffee shops and cool boutiques.

It’s an ideal spot for shopping or snapping a few Instagram-worthy photos.

The surrounding streets also have lots of stalls with handicrafts, jewellery, ceramics, antiques, toys, paintings and, of course, food.

There’s a really nice atmosphere at the weekend with people relaxing at the cafés and restaurants.

Usually, more vendors set up stands at the weekend. Make sure to swing by the flea market for even more antiques and unique items.

9. Cool off in the tunnels of Puebla – Go underground in the historical network

One of the best things to do in Puebla that a lot of people miss out on is exploring the Puebla Tunnels.

Some may visit the Cholula Tunnels (the tunnels under the huge pyramid), but there are some pretty cool tunnels in Puebla, too.

Roughly five metres below ground, the tunnels are literally cool – with a comfortable temperature that contrasts with the heat of the Mexican sun in the middle of the day.

The tunnels, believed to be up to 500 years old, were rediscovered in 2015 and opened to the public in 2016.

They were larger than we expected, tall and wide enough to walk through without feeling claustrophobic, with well-maintained pathways. Historical artefacts were displayed along the way.

Although visitors can only explore parts of the tunnels, this extensive network stretches over 10 kilometres, connecting the historic centre to the Fort of Loreto (where the famous Cinco de Mayo battle occurred). So interesting!

The tunnels are known as Pasaje Histórico 5 de Mayo, and the entrance is next to Boulevard 5 de Mayo here.

In 2026, the entrance price was 35 pesos per person (~ 2 EUR / 2 USD).

10. Explore the Museum of the Baroque – A modern showcase of classical art

The Museum of the Baroque (Museo Internacional del Barroco) in Puebla is a must-see if you’re interested in art, history and architecture.

The museum is housed in a modern building designed by architect Toyo Ito, and we thought it resembled a luxury hotel more than it did a museum.

Despite its modern exterior, the museum’s interior takes you on a fascinating journey through the Baroque period with paintings, sculptures, music and artefacts from the 17th and 18th centuries.

The Baroque items were stunning, and we found the interactive displays to be a fun, engaging touch.

We spent around an hour here, but if you take a closer look at everything and read all the texts (especially if you speak Spanish), you can probably spend 2-3 hours.

The museum is a short drive from Puebla’s city centre but worth it in our opinion.

In 2026, the general entrance fee is 100 pesos (~ 5 EUR / 6 USD). Admission is free for all visitors on Sundays.

11. Try mole poblano – Puebla’s famous chocolate-chilli sauce

Mole poblano is a traditional Mexican sauce that originated in Puebla.

The dish is a cherished part of Puebla’s culinary identity, so it’s a must-try if you want to experience the local cuisine.

What’s really special about mole poblano is the deep flavour made from a blend of chocolate, spices, nuts, dried fruits and various chillies.

It’s dark reddish-brown in colour with sweet and spicy notes.

There are several legends surrounding the invention of mole. Though the true origins may remain a mystery, this rich sauce has become iconic, with countless recipes now found across Mexico.

12. Enjoy the big Los Fuertes Parque – A historic park with panoramic city views

A green space in Puebla that we particularly enjoyed was Los Fuertes Parque, a big park on a hill just north of the city centre.

It’s most famous for – and named after – the two forts: Fort of Loreto (Fuerte de Loreto) and Fort of Guadalupe (Fuerte de Guadalupe).

It was the site of the Battle of Puebla on 5 May 1862, when Mexican forces achieved a symbolic victory against the French. That victory is why Cinco de Mayo has become an annual celebration.

Both forts now serve as museums, allowing visitors to explore the history of the area and its significance in the Battle of Puebla.

The park houses both the 5 de Mayo Interactive Museum, with engaging displays about the famous battle, and the Museum of the Evolution of Puebla.

There are also a few plazas, walking trails, scenic viewpoints, sculptures and even a planetarium.

What we loved the most was walking around the little lake (Parque Lago de La Concordia) and up to the Mirador de Los Fuertes viewpoint. From here, there’s a fantastic view of the city, nearby volcanoes, the lake and a big colourful Puebla sign.

Tip: Los Fuertes Parque can easily be combined with a trip to the tunnels in Puebla as the tunnels’ exit is right by the lake in the park.

13. Visit the Convent Church of San Francisco – A unique blend of architectural styles

What immediately captured our attention was the Convent Church of San Francisco’s combination of colours and design details. It really makes it stand out from Puebla’s (many) other churches.

The Ex-Convento de San Francisco, as it’s called in Spanish, was begun in 1535, though the tiled facade you see today was added in the 18th century, and the architecture features an interesting blend of European and Indigenous influences.

Inside, the church has beautiful vaulted ceilings, multiple altars and statues. There’s also a glass case containing the mummified body of the Blessed Sebastián de Aparicio.

If you’re a tourist visiting Puebla, paying your respects to him is fitting as he is the patron saint of travellers.

It’s around 15 minutes from the Zócalo. We stopped by to see it on the way to the Puebla Tunnels and Los Fuertes Parque.

14. Get a bird’s-eye view from the Estrella de Puebla – A towering Ferris wheel

For an aerial perspective of Puebla and the surrounding volcanoes, don’t miss a ride on the Estrella de Puebla.

The giant Ferris wheel is 80 metres (262 feet) tall, and it’s one of the most popular attractions in Puebla.

When we visited Puebla in March 2023, it was unfortunately closed temporarily. It would have been fun to ride – and perfect for taking some nice pictures.

Typically, each rotation of the wheel takes 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

15. Check out the street art – Urban murals all over the city

Everywhere in Puebla, we found colourful, artistic paintings on the walls. So stunning!

The neighbourhood of Xanenetla (Barrio de Xanenetla) in particular is known for its striking murals – but beautiful street art can be found around every corner in the city. So keep your eyes open.

16. Buy Talavera souvenirs – Puebla’s iconic ceramic craft

Talavera tiles and pottery are hand-painted ceramics originating in Puebla.

The ceramics are crafted from a specific type of clay. The tradition was introduced by Spanish artisans during the colonial era and has since evolved into a distinctive Mexican art form.

They are usually vivid, detailed and often feature patterns inspired by Moorish, Spanish and Indigenous Mexican art.

Talavera ceramics make excellent souvenirs, since they’re decorative and a way to support local artisans who preserve a centuries-old tradition.

You can find everything from plates, cups and coasters to ornamental pieces, wall accents and pottery.

17. Step into Biblioteca Palafoxiana – The first public library in the Americas

When we visited Puebla, we completely overlooked this gem: Biblioteca Palafoxiana. Still, we wanted to include it in this guide for anyone who might want to check it out.

Biblioteca Palafoxiana is a special place as it’s considered the first public library in the Americas. It was founded in 1646 by Bishop Juan de Palafox y Mendoza.

He donated his personal collection of 5,000 books on the condition that they be accessible to anyone who could read. Over the centuries, the collection has expanded to more than 45,000 volumes, including rare manuscripts, antique books and documents dating back to the 15th century.

The library (which now also serves as a museum) is on the upper floor of Casa de la Cultura – a Baroque-style building just across from the cathedral.

18. Take a day trip to Cholula – Home to the world’s largest pyramid

If you’re interested in delving deeper into Mexico’s pre-Columbian past, a day trip to Cholula is one of the best things to do while in Puebla.

Cholula is a magical town (pueblo mágico) with a relaxed atmosphere and lots of yummy places to eat.

We stayed for a while and can definitely recommend it if you have the time. It’s only a short drive from Puebla. So short, in fact, that it feels like you’re still in the same city.

Here you’ll find the Pyramid of Cholula, the largest pyramid in the world by volume.

You can also discover the tunnels beneath the pyramid and enjoy panoramic views from the charming church on top of it.

Read more about the magical town and the Great Pyramid of Cholula in our travel guide to Cholula.

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19. Hike a volcano – Natural adventures near the city

If you have a sense of adventure and a decent pair of shoes, you can consider hiking one of the volcanoes surrounding Puebla.

We unfortunately didn’t, as Victoria was pregnant during our visit, but otherwise we would have totally used it as an excuse to eat more tacos – and of course take tons of pictures.

It looks incredible.

The most popular volcanoes to visit are Iztaccíhuatl, Popocatépetl and La Malinche.

• Iztaccíhuatl (La Mujer Dormida) is a dormant volcano and a favourite for hiking enthusiasts. Guided hikes often explore trails leading to intermediate points or even the summit for the more experienced.
• Popocatépetl (El Popo) is an active volcano, so direct hikes to the summit are restricted for safety reasons. However, guided tours often take you to scenic viewpoints.
• La Malinche is the fifth-highest peak in Mexico. The dormant volcano is a less challenging option for beginners or those seeking a full-day hike.

Most tours cover transport, a guide, park entry fees and visits to nearby landmarks. Some even include meals or snacks, though it’s always a good idea to double-check what’s provided and what you’ll need to bring yourself.

Check out some of the most popular tours below:

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20. Other day trips from Puebla – Exploring the treasures around the city

Cholula and its nearby volcanoes are classic day-trip destinations from Puebla, but the city also makes an excellent base for exploring the wider region, with plenty of other exciting spots within reach. Here are a few options:

Atlixco

Located 40 minutes from Puebla, Atlixco is a charming magical town famous for its flower markets.

It’s in the foothills of Popocatépetl volcano and it’s an ideal place for strolling through gardens, enjoying local cuisine and soaking up views of the volcano.

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Cacaxtla Ruins and Tlaxcala City

The Cacaxtla Archaeological Site is only an hour from Puebla. If we had more time, we would have loved to explore it ourselves.

Here, you can learn more about the pre-Hispanic Mesoamerican culture and how Cacaxtla was once a powerful city. The site is especially known for its well-preserved frescoes.

You can easily reach Cacaxtla by Uber or public transport from Puebla, or you can opt for a guided tour, which often includes a stop in Tlaxcala City and a visit to the Nuestra Señora de Ocotlán Temple.

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Val’Quirico

Val’Quirico is a beautiful mock-medieval Italian-style village just 40 minutes from Puebla.

It has cobblestone streets, quaint shops, restaurants and cafés, all set against the backdrop of beautiful countryside. The pictures remind us so much of Tuscany in Italy!

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Cantona Archaeological Ruins

Another cool archaeological spot that’s worth a visit is Cantona.

The ruins are around 1 hour and 30 minutes northeast of Puebla City, on the border of Veracruz state.

The ancient city, which thrived between 600 and 1000 AD, is known for its network of stone causeways and terraces, featuring 24 ball courts alongside numerous residential and ceremonial areas.

Laguna de Alchichica

Many people combine a visit to the Cantona Archaeological Ruins with the nearby crater lagoon as the two are close together.

While Cantona provides an interesting look into ancient Mesoamerican civilisation, the strikingly blue Laguna de Alchichica is a natural wonder.

The volcanic lake is in a maar – a crater blasted out when rising magma met groundwater and exploded.

A day trip from Puebla to these two places makes for an excellent mix of history, culture and natural landscapes.

Map of the best things to do in Puebla

Here’s a map we’ve created showing all of the top attractions in Puebla mentioned in this travel guide.

As you can see, almost all of the things to do are clustered in the centro histórico.

How long to stay in Puebla

The ideal length of stay in Puebla depends on your interests and how much time you have.

Three to four days is usually enough time to experience Puebla. We chose to stay five days (four nights), which felt just right for exploring the city at a comfortable pace.

With this amount of time, you can explore Puebla’s centro histórico, visit its museums and churches as well as wander through the most interesting neighbourhoods.

You’ll also have time for a day trip to nearby Cholula or to enjoy views of the surrounding volcanoes.

With a longer stay, you could explore more neighbourhoods, visit additional churches, sample more delicious food, check out all the local markets and artisan shops or even go on day trips to nearby places.

Visit Puebla on a day trip from Mexico City

Though we would recommend staying in Puebla to truly enjoy its rich culture and historic charm, it’s possible to visit on a day trip from Mexico City.

In fact, it’s quite a popular thing to do.

You can discover the city’s highlights, such as the historic centre and the stunning cathedral, along with opportunities for shopping and sampling local cuisine.

Many tours also include a visit to Cholula, allowing you to see the Great Pyramid of Cholula and the church built atop it.

The journey from Mexico City to Puebla City usually takes 2-2.5 hours by car or bus, so prepare for a long but exciting day!

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Where to stay in Puebla

If you want to stay in the heart of Puebla, the centro histórico is the place to be. You’ll have the cathedral, the Zócalo and some of the city’s best restaurants right on your doorstep.

We stayed just outside the city centre ourselves but would have loved to be even closer to everything.

So, we’ve rounded up some fantastic hotels in the historic district – whether you’re after luxury, charm or a more budget-friendly stay.

Read more about each hotel in our guide to where to stay in Puebla or search for the best hotels in Puebla (adlink).

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Our favourite luxury hotels in Puebla

Puebla’s historic centre is home to outstanding luxury stays that combine colonial charm with modern elegance.

Historic mansions and buildings have been transformed into lavish retreats, offering a perfect base for exploring the city’s UNESCO-listed streets while enjoying top-tier service and amenities.

• Hotel Boutique Casona de la China Poblana (adults only) – A historic 17th-century mansion once home to the legendary China Poblana, now an intimate luxury hotel in the heart of Puebla.
• Cartesiano Boutique & Wellness Hotel – A beautifully restored colonial property with 400-year-old walls, Mexican art throughout and a stunning rooftop pool with volcano views.
• Banyan Tree Puebla – Asian-inspired luxury meets colonial Mexican architecture, featuring spacious suites and a world-class spa.

Search for the best luxury hotels in Puebla here.

Our favourite mid-range hotels in Puebla

Mexico is generally a great country for charming, no-frills mid-range hotels that offer plenty of comfort without huge price tags.

These three value-for-money hotels are no exception.

• L’Hotel Perla Boutique – A stylish option in a restored building with bright, modern rooms and a picturesque rooftop terrace with a heated pool.
• Hotel Boutique Posada XVII – An intimate 7-room hotel in an authentic 17th-century home, complete with antique furnishings.
• Palacio Julio Hotel – Two meticulously restored 17th-century palace houses offering dramatic cathedral views.

Search for the best mid-range hotels in Puebla here.

Our favourite budget hotels in Puebla

Travelling to Puebla can be both comfortable and affordable, with nice budget stays near the city’s historic highlights. Here are our top two picks.

• Hotel Isabel – A well-reviewed budget hotel in a beautiful historic building offering simple yet spacious rooms just steps from the Zócalo.
• Hotel Diana – Another no-fuss budget stay with a prime location, friendly service and all the essentials for a comfortable visit to Puebla.

Search for the best budget hotels in Puebla here.

Where to eat in Puebla

Here are some of our favourite places to eat and drink in Puebla.

Clemente Specialty Coffee

As fans of trendy cafés and great coffee, we couldn’t resist trying Clemente Specialty Coffee.

We had a sandwich with eggplant, hummus, tomatoes and lettuce, a piece of bread with peanut butter, banana, blueberries, cacao nibs and chia seeds as well as a lovely cup of coffee.

El Rincón de Tacotlán

El Rincón de Tacotlán is a small vegan taco place – a hole-in-the-wall kind of spot with just a few seats.

When we visited, we had tacos for 20 pesos and gringas for 50-60 pesos, topped with vegan cheese and meat alternatives. Simple but absolutely delicious! The service was also very friendly.

La Zanahoria

La Zanahoria is a vegetarian and vegan spot offering affordable food. The interior is pleasant but not overly fancy.

The food is simple yet filling.

We tried the tacos with tofu, which came with a side of salad, refried beans and chips. While not particularly flavourful, they were wholesome and straightforward. The flautas with salsa verde were tasty, though slightly on the salty side. The highlight, however, was the guacamole, which was excellent.

Overall, it’s a great place for a casual and budget-friendly meal. At weekends, they also offer a buffet.

Smudi Bowls

Smudi Bowls is a small, takeaway-focused spot a bit further from the city centre, next to other shops and eateries.

We had golden milk made with coconut milk and two delicious smoothie bowls, which unfortunately were served in disposable cups and bowls.

We tried the Golden Bowl (made with mango and pineapple) and the Moka Bowl (with cacao and banana). Both bowls had a lovely consistency and flavour, and they were bigger than we expected.

The best part is that you can personalise your bowls by choosing your own toppings.

How to get around in Puebla

Walking

The historic centre of Puebla is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for walking.

We walked everywhere. Many attractions, restaurants and shops are within easy walking distance of each other.

Public transport

Puebla has a public transport system called RUTA that covers the city.

It’s a bus rapid transit network built on the same model as Mexico City’s Metrobús. It’s a popular way for people to get around, so the buses are often packed.

It’s inexpensive but may not always be the most convenient as routes can be confusing, especially to non-Spanish speakers.

Uber, taxis or the like

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are everywhere in Puebla City, and we used them ourselves to get home at night or to go to Cholula.

We primarily used ride-shares and found them both affordable and safe.

One of the things we appreciated most was knowing the price upfront, rather than having to haggle with a taxi driver or be surprised by the fare at the end of the trip.

When to visit Puebla

Situated at an elevation of 2,135 metres above sea level (7,005 feet), Puebla enjoys a temperate climate throughout the year.

The weather in Puebla is generally mild, with daytime temperatures ranging between 21°C and 26°C (70-79°F). Evenings and nights can be cooler, particularly in the winter months, with temperatures sometimes dropping close to freezing.

Puebla’s rainy season lasts from June to October, bringing afternoon showers or thunderstorms. It’s a good idea to pack a light rain jacket or umbrella during this period.

The dry season, from November to May, is characterised by lower humidity and minimal rainfall. This is the best time to visit if you prefer sunny, dry weather.

Given Puebla’s high altitude, the sun can be quite strong, even on cooler days. It’s important to wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses when exploring outdoor attractions.

Safety in Puebla

Is Puebla safe to visit?

Well, the short answer is yes.

Anecdotally, we walked through the centro histórico by day and by night, wandered the tunnels and never once had a dodgy moment.

The city has a calm, unhurried feel to it that doesn’t match the mental image some people have of Mexico before they’ve actually been.

That said, it’s worth knowing the wider context.

The US State Department currently places Puebla (and Mexico as a whole) at Level 2, “Exercise Increased Caution”, citing terrorism, crime and kidnapping.

As ever, this is a state-wide advisory rather than anything specific to the historic centre where visitors actually spend their time, and it’s sensible to check the current advisory for your own nationality before you go, since these things do shift.

In practice, a bit of common sense goes a long way:

• Stick to the well-lit, well-trodden streets of the historic centre, especially once it gets dark.
• Use Uber or a registered taxi rather than hailing one off the street. We did this ourselves and always felt comfortable.
• Keep an eye on your belongings in busy spots like the Zócalo or the markets. Pickpocketing is a far more realistic concern than anything more serious.
• Don’t wave expensive cameras or jewellery around unnecessarily, though we carried a camera everywhere without any bother.
• Check your government’s latest travel advisory before you go. Conditions can shift, and official guidance will always be more current than one couple’s five days in the city.
• Stick to the toll roads rather than free ones if you’re driving out to Cholula, Atlixco or further afield.

We never felt unsafe in Puebla, but as with any unfamiliar city, a little awareness goes further than a lot of worry.

Our top tips for visiting Puebla

• Bring your pesos: Some restaurants and most market stalls only take cash.
• ¿Habla inglés? While many people in Mexico’s tourist areas speak some English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
• Use Google Translate: If you have data on your phone, you can use the camera function to translate things like menus and signs live. The microphone function is useful if you’re communicating with locals who can’t speak English.
• Wifi and SIM cards: Wifi is widely available in hotels and restaurants but speeds can vary. Consider getting a local SIM card or an international data plan if you want to stay connected on the go. We used a Holafly eSIM and it worked well. We’ve also previously used Airalo (adlink) with great success.
• Respect local customs: Although Puebla is a rather progressive city, Mexico still has many traditional cultural practices, so be mindful and respectful of local customs and traditions.
• Tipping: It’s common to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants or for group tours if a service charge hasn’t already been applied. For taxis, tipping isn’t mandatory, but rounding up the fare is customary. Ride-share drivers generally appreciate a tip of around 10%.
• Layer up: At 2,135 metres above sea level (7,005 feet), Puebla can be warm during the day and cooler in the evenings, so bring layers to stay comfortable.
• Stay hydrated: The high altitude can lead to quicker dehydration. Carry a water bottle and drink regularly, especially when walking or during warmer months.
• Don’t drink tap water: Tap water isn’t considered safe to drink in Mexico, so it’s best to stick with bottled water or use a filtered water bottle. We use a water filter from Tappwater (adlink) that fits most taps, making the water safe to drink.
• Plug type and voltage: Mexico primarily uses Type A and Type B plugs (flat, parallel prongs), similar to those used in the United States and Canada. Mexico operates on a 127V supply voltage and a frequency of 60Hz, so if you are coming from a region with different standards, check whether your devices are dual-voltage.

What to bring to Puebla

• Travel insurance (adlink). Never travel without it!
• A good camera – here’s a guide to the gear we use.
• Sunscreen (adlink).
• Good sneakers or sandals that you can walk around in all day.
• Swimwear and a towel if your hotel has a pool.
• A refillable water bottle.
• Mexican pesos. Cash is still preferred in many places.

FAQ about Puebla

Our guide to the best things to do in Puebla is long, we know.

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you find the information you need quickly.

How many days do you need in Puebla?

Three to four days is enough to see Puebla’s attractions. We spent five days to take it slow.

Is Puebla worth visiting?

We think so!

Puebla is well worth visiting for its colonial architecture, museums, churches and famous mole poblano, all with a more laid-back energy than Mexico City.

How far is Puebla from Mexico City?

Puebla is around 2-2.5 hours from Mexico City by car or bus, so it’s a great weekend escape.

Can you visit Puebla on a day trip from Mexico City?

Yes, it’s a popular day trip and many tours also include a stop in nearby Cholula to see the Great Pyramid.

We would recommend staying a few nights in the city, though.

What is Puebla famous for?

Puebla is famous for mole poblano, Talavera pottery, its Baroque churches and its UNESCO-listed historic centre.

What is the best time to visit Puebla?

The dry season, from November to May, brings sunnier, drier weather.

The rainy season runs from June to October, with afternoon showers (and sometimes better accommodation deals).

Do I need to speak Spanish to visit Puebla?

Not really. Many people in tourist areas speak some English, though a few basic Spanish phrases are always appreciated.

Is Puebla walkable?

Yes, very. The historic centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly, and we walked almost everywhere during our stay.

Thanks for reading our Puebla guide

We hope our travel guide with the best things to do in Puebla has been useful!

What do you think about the city? Do you know more about what to do in Puebla now?

If you’ve already been, it would be awesome to hear your best tips.

If you haven’t been yet, please don’t hesitate to ask away in the comments below. We’re glad to help.

This article was originally written by Alexander & Victoria on March 19, 2025.