Just two hours away from Mexico City, the city of Puebla is truly a gem. It is well known for its very colorful and festive streets, amazing culinary scene, breathtaking volcanoes, and marvelous architecture. You will surely love getting lost and just wandering around the city while making some stops at the magnificent restaurants and coffee shops along the way. Being one of the wealthiest cities in Mexico from the time of the colonial period, UNESCO has also recognized the significance of Puebla City when it comes to its culture and architecture. Be amazed by what this great Mexican city has to offer and find out more about the best things to do in Puebla City, Mexico.
1. Browse through the books and manuscripts from the 15th to 20th century in the Biblioteca Palafoxiana
Bookworms and history enthusiasts will surely not miss visiting the renowned Biblioteca Palafoxiana. Established in 1646, the library is considered as the first one in the Americas. The library is home to a massive collection of books and manuscripts from the 15th to the 20th century. It is also one of UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. The whole library is bordered by bookshelves made from authentic ayacahuite pine, cedar, and coloyote wood. Some of the walls also feature art from the 14th century.
Book Tours : City walking tour in Puebla (private tour)
2. Gain insight into Puebla’s history from the audio commentary on board
Exploring the city all by yourself by walking or commuting isn’t enough. Sometimes, you really need to join tours to know more about the city. By joining this tour, knowledge about the city of Puebla is guaranteed while you sit back, relax and be amazed by the beauty of the city. A tour guide will be with you during the whole course of the trip while he/she explains the places and the history of the city while you’re on the go.
3. Explore different routes going up the extinct, snowcapped volcano of Iztaccihuatl
When you’re in Puebla, exploring the city isn’t enough. You need to reach the summit of its volcanoes to appreciate its full beauty. Reach the summit of the Iztaccihuatl Volcano through different yet adventure-filled routes while riding on a jeep. You will be surely amazed by the beauty of this snowcapped mountain while transcending its four peaks that look like a silhouette of a sleeping woman. There’s also a lot of scenic views along your way.
Book Tours : Volcano Tour to Iztaccihuatl
4. Discover Puebla’s acclaimed cuisine and taste classic dishes on this tour
Traveling to a new destination won’t be complete without trying out their local cuisine. Of course, every city has its own prized dishes that every tourist must try. Now, get to experience Puebla’s famous culinary culture. From Puebla’s traditional markets, mole mills and sophisticated restaurants, you will surely get full from the hearty dishes that you will be trying all throughout the day. Get ready to taste some of the local delicacies like moles, tamales, molotes, chalupas, cemitas, pelonas and a lot more.
Book Tours : Private Culinary Tour of Puebla from Mexico City
5. Buy sweets from the nuns of Puebla’s convents on the Street of Candies
You would surely like a sweet dessert after a day of exploring the best Poblano dishes. There’s nothing better than to satisfy your sweet cravings by trying some of the sweets made by the nuns of Puebla’s numerous convents. Have a taste of these sweet treats as you walk right through Puebla’s “Street of Candies.” Make sure to buy some sweets for everyone back home!
6. Visit the largest pyramid in the world - the great pyramid of Cholula
If you think that the pyramids in Egypt are the largest in the whole world, then you are totally wrong! Standing at 55 meters (180.45 feet), the tallest pyramid is actually the Great Pyramid of Cholula which can be found just outside Puebla. Its architectural style came from the Teotihuacan from the Valley of Mexico. Today, it is known as the symbol of the ancient city of Cholula which was known as “the most beautiful city outside of Spain”. Join a tour that will help you learn more about the history of the ancient ruins while enjoying it.
7. Immerse yourself amidst pre-Columbian and Mexican art at the Amparo Museum
Get to discover the rich history and culture of Mexico through art at the Amparo Museum in Puebla. This beautiful and quaint museum is loaded with a lot of artifacts across different generations and civilizations. The Amparo Museum is regarded as one of Mexico’s most important archaeological museums. That is why you really need to visit the place when you are in the city. Historic artifacts from the Mayans, Olmecs, Aztecs, and Zapotecs can be seen in the museum.
Amparo Museum
Address: Av 2 Sur 708, Centro, 72000 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Website: Amparo Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
8. Ride through the African Safari featuring more than 450 species of animals
See lions, elephants, tigers, giraffes and other kinds of animals with your family by foot or from inside a car at the Africam Safari in Puebla. The Africam Safari offers a very fun and informative experience to everyone who loves to see exotic animals in action. Aside from the walking tours, you can also watch their spectacular bird show, or try some of their adrenaline-rushing activities such as the zip line. Are you looking forward to the whole animal-filled day? Why don’t you have lunch in their Kilimanjaro Restaurant while enjoying a breathtaking view of the animals in front of you? Africam Safari is truly a destination for both kids and grown-ups.
Africam Safari Puebla
Address: Blvd. Capitán Carlos Camacho Espíritu Km 16.5, Oasis, 72960 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Website: Africam Safari Puebla
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
9. Admire the panoramic views of the city from a huge observation wheel Estrella de Puebla
If London has the London Eye, and Singapore has the Singapore Flyer, then Puebla has the Estrella de Puebla. Get to see the whole city of Puebla when you ride Puebla’s largest Ferris wheel. Aside from the city, you also get to see the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes from one of its 54 gondolas. Some side trips from the Estrella de Puebla include the nearby Centro Commercial Angelópolis shopping center and Parque del Arte.
Estrella de Puebla
Address: Osa Mayor 2520, Reserva Territorial Atlixcáyotl, Centros Comerciales Desarrollo Atlixcayotl, 72190 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Website: Estrella de Puebla
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 3:30pm - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 10pm
10. Try out some of the local drinks at La Pasita
After you have tried all of Puebla’s best local dishes, you might be also interested in trying their local drinks. The best place to try them is at La Pasita. You might be a bit intimidated with the bizarre names of their drinks. But trust us, they’re really good. You will surely fall in love with the place’s rustic and laidback ambiance for a quaint yet fun drinking session with friends.
La Pasita
Address: Av 5 Ote 602, Centro, 72000 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 12:30pm - 5:30pm (closed on Tue)
11. Take photos of the murals in Xanenetla
Xanenetla is probably Mexico’s version of the mural and graffiti-laden streets of Melbourne in Australia. It is a Poblano-Nahuatl neighborhood that rose from poverty and has now risen to become famous for its colorful street art. Once a very dangerous neighborhood, people from all walks of life now visit the neighborhood just to see the amazing street art, combined with its cobble-stoned pathways that complete the edgy ambiance.
Xanenetla
Address: Barrio de Xanenetla, Puebla, Mexico
12. Pay a visit to the Cerro de Loreto y Guadalupe
Forts are sometimes known as a symbol of independence, and the Cerro de Loreto y Guadalupe is one of those. The Cerro de Loreto y Guadalupe symbolizes the victory of the Mexicans in the Battle of Puebla. The Franco-Mexican war started the annual holiday of the Cinco de Mayo. Get a glimpse of Mexico’s rich history by paying a visit to the Cerro de Loreto y Guadalupe when you’re in the city.
Cerro de Loreto y Guadalupe
Address: Ejércitos de Oriente S/N, Los Fuertes, 72270 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 4:30pm (closed on Mon)
13. Browse through the shops at Frog Alley
The Callejon de los Sapos or the Alley of the Frogs is a magical place because of its narrow alleyways full of bright and splendid colors painted against its colonial walls. The old houses of the Frog Alley have also turned into small, quaint stores that sell authentic crafts, antiques, toys, furniture and a lot more. There’s also some eateries, coffee shops, and inns in the area.
Frog Alley
Address: México 6, México 83, 72017 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
14. Have a look inside the International Museum of the Baroque
Appreciate the beauty of baroque art as soon as you step into this very modern and contemporary museum. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Toyo Ito, the Museo Internacional de Barroco or the International Museum of the Baroque features the best of the baroque art. There’s no other place that is perfect to put up this museum than the colonial city of Puebla, where baroque art is practically everywhere. By visiting the museum, you will surely appreciate baroque art and how it is unique among all other kinds of art.
International Museum of the Baroque
Address: Atlixcáyotl 2501, Reserva Territorial Atlixcáyotl, 72830 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Website: International Museum of the Baroque
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 7pm (closed on Mon)
15. Gaze at the astonishing architecture inside the Capilla del Rosario
Churches are indeed a wonder, especially with their amazing stained glass, delicate interiors, historic altar area, facade, and of course, its breathtaking ceilings. The Capilla del Rosario in Puebla is regarded as one of the most beautiful churches in the world. Being a part of the Santo Domingo church, this very ornate 17th-century chapel is almost made of gold. The church is truly the best example of the beauty of Mexican baroque architecture.
Capilla del Rosario
Address: Victoria del 5 de Mayo, Centro, 72000 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
16. Check out the eateries, shops and fountains at the Zócalo de Puebla
Located right at the heart of the city, the Zocalo de Puebla is regarded as Puebla’s center of culture and religion. Today, it is a very spacious park laden with artistic pieces, archways, and Puebla’s stunning architecture. Adjacent to the park is the City Hall of Puebla and the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception of Mary. The park is also surrounded by relaxing cafes, charming fountains and delicious restaurants.
Zócalo de Puebla
Address: Av. Don Juan de Palafox y. Mendoza, Centro, 72000 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
17. Gather souvenir items from handicraft stores in the Parian Market
Of course, a trip won’t be complete without shopping for souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones back home. The best place to buy souvenirs in Puebla is the Parian Market. The market is laden with artisans who sell their artistic creations to tourists, so they get to have a piece of Puebla’s rich history and art when they go home. You can buy items like pottery, textiles, leather, jewelry, dolls, silverware and sweets at Parian Market at a very reasonable price.
Parian Market
Address: Calle 6 Nte 205, Centro, 72000 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)
18. Tour the landmark bridge of Puente de Bubas featuring a historic center and cavernous passages
For decades, a rumor had spread in the whole of Puebla that there were secret passageways under the city. And just recently, archaeologists and scientists have proved that there are indeed secret passageways around Puebla. These network of tunnels has connected churches with ancient buildings were used by the Mexican revolutionaries as escape routes during the war. Now they have been converted into tourist attractions for those who are really interested with Puebla’s rich history. That is why you shouldn’t really miss visiting the Puente de Bubas.
Puente de Bubas
Address: Blvrd Héroes del 5 de Mayo 8, Barrio de la Luz, 72377 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
19. Relish some Mexican delicacies at the La Única Puebla restaurant
Try eating some of Mexico’s most popular delicacies in the very modern and elegant ambiance of the La Unica Puebla restaurant in Puebla. They have a very diverse menu that is made up of appetizers, soups, seafood, meats, and fish. Desserts and drinks are also available for you to try out.
La Única Puebla
Address: Centro Comercial City Angelópolis, Atlixcáyotl 1499, CP, 72197 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Website: La Única Puebla
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 1:30pm - 1:30am; Sun: 1:30pm - 10:30pm
20. Hang out with friends over a few drinks at the Utopia, Belgian Beer & Bistro
Utopia, Belgian Beer & Bistro is a popular beer bar in Puebla. They serve Belgian beers in general but also have a few Mexican microbrews on their menu. Visit the bistro for great grub, beers and good old jazz nights.
Utopia, Belgian Beer & Bistro
Address: Av 9 Ote 1, Centro, 72000 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Website: Utopia, Belgian Beer & Bistro
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 6pm - 12:30am; Fri - Sat: 6pm - 2:30am (closed on Sun)
21. Relax your body and get pampered at the Be Spa
You might be a bit tired and exhausted from a whole day of exploring the wonders of Puebla. That is why you need to relax and pamper yourself at the Be Spa. Treat yourself with wellness package as you enjoy massages and therapies from their qualified therapists and masseurs. They also offer manicures, pedicures, facial therapies, and many others.
Be Spa
Address: Blvrd Atlixco 3156, La Providencia, 72400 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 7pm (closed on Sun)
22. Plan a bowling night with family at the Bowling La Noria
Posted by Viridiana Silva on Sunday, 16 February 2020
Bowling nights are always a delight for families and friends. Have the best bowling night and go play at the Bowling La Noria in Puebla. The bowling alley features 36 tracks in a very good condition. Everything is provided in Bowling La Noria, including bowling shoes and balls. Keeping track of your scores is also not a problem as the bowling alley comes with automatic counters and digital screens.
Bowling La Noria
Address: Calle 45 Pte. 1937, Reserva Territorial Atlixcáyotl, La Noria, 72410 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 11am - 12am; Sat - Mon: 11am - 11pm
23. Catch a hit blockbuster at the Cinépolis VIP Angelópolis
Yes, watching a movie is a great bonding time with friends and family. But we are usually bummed when we see the crowded theaters. But as their name suggests, you will be surely treated like a VIP when you watch a movie at the Cinépolis VIP Angelópolis. The cinema features reclining La-Z-Boy seats where you are free to sit back and enjoy a movie. Plus, they have an IMAX theater for an even better cinema experience.
Cinépolis VIP Angelópolis
Address: Blvrd del Niño Poblano 2510, Reserva Territorial Atlixcáyotl, Centro Comercial Angelopolis, 72450 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Website: Cinépolis VIP Angelópolis
Opening hours: 1pm - 11pm (daily)
24. Pay your respect at the Catedral Basilica de Puebla
Your trip to the great Mexican city won’t be complete without a visit to the renowned Catedral Basilica de Puebla. Dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of Mary, the church is famous for its renaissance architecture with baroque ornamentation. The church was built in 1575, so every corner of the church is stunning. Make sure to start your trip with a visit to this church and pray for yourself and your loved ones.
Catedral Basilica de Puebla
Address: C. 16 de Septiembre s/n, Centro, 72000 Puebla, Pue., Mexico
Website: Catedral Basilica de Puebla
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 1pm, 4pm - 8pm (closed on Sun)
25. Explore Mexico’s wilderness areas with ease in the Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park
Aside from ancients ruins and relics, Pueblo also boasts of its natural wonders and attractions. The best way to experience the beauty of Pueblo’s natural environment is by hiking through the Iztaccihuatl and Popocatepetl National Park. Hike with your own private guide and reach the summit of Mexico’s third tallest mountain. You can also try adrenaline-rushing activities like zip lining at the eco-adventure park.
26. Try the mole poblano, for which Puebla is famous, at Mercado el Carmen
Mole Poblano or the mole sauce is a dish for which Puebla is really known for. Two of its main ingredients are chocolate and chili. It might seem weird at first but surprisingly, the two go well! The best place to try this famous dish is at Mercado el Carmen. It is usually crowded by people wanting to have a taste of this great dish.
Mercado el Carmen
Address: Av. 21 Ote. 205 Col. El Ángel 72470 Puebla, Mexico
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
27. Hit the dance floor at the Tumbao Latino nightclub
A trip with your friends won’t be complete without having a crazy night full of drink and dances. The best place to party in Puebla is no other than the Tumbao Latino night club. Aside from the large variety of drinks and cocktails available, they also have the best DJs in Mexico to play the latest hits and go crazy dancing to them. It is also the best place to try dancing salsa and other Mexican dances.
Tumbao Latino
Address: Blvd. Atlixco 1520, Col. La Paz. Puebla City
Website: Tumbao Latino
Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 9pm - 3am; Sun: 6pm - 3am (closed on Mon - Wed)
28. See Puebla's most important attractions without having to stay overnight
The city of Puebla is known to be one of the most beautiful cities in the whole of Mexico. Of course, the city offers a lot of sights and attractions to locals and tourists alike. Appreciate the beauty of the city even better by spending the whole day exploring it. You would surely want to visit Puebla’s archaeological wonders, check out popular restaurants to try their best dishes and shop in local markets to buy traditional artistic pottery.
Book Tours : Puebla & Cholula Day Tour
29. Learn to cook authentic Poblano dishes at a family home in Puebla
If you loved Puebla’s famous dishes, you might also be interested in knowing how to cook them. Learn how to cook authentic Poblano dishes from real experts by joining this tour. You will surely enjoy this cooking lesson from a mother-daughter duo right at their family home in Puebla. Learn to cook your own Poblano dish right at their kitchen. You also get to tour Puebla’s busy local market, where the hosts source the ingredients for a fine dish.
30. Discover Puebla's historic center and artisan crafts market on a walking tour
Escape the busyness of Mexico City and discover Puebla’s historic center, an artisan crafts market and other points of interest on this walking tour. Get ready to be amazed at the city’s baroque churches and try their world-famous cuisine. Tour the whole city for the whole day and you will surely fall in love with its very rustic and laid back ambiance.
Have a great time in Puebla
The rich history, culture, arts, and cuisine of Puebla will surely make you want to visit it soon. The next time you are in Mexico, make sure to explore the city, even if it is just for a couple of days. You’ll surely fall in love with it.
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