The Top 13 Things to Do in Puebla, Mexico

For decades, the colonial city of Puebla (founded in 1531), was uniquely known for its history, churches, food contributions (ex: mole poblano), and Talavera (a vibrantly colored ceramic unique to the region). The city began popping on travelers radar in 1987 – when the city’s historic center was named a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today, it is a vibrant cultural center that attracts travelers from all over the globe.

Pasaje 5 de mayo

This attraction is a newly discovered set of tunnels that are rumored to have transported between between location sin the Battle of 5 de Mayo, between monasteries, and as a drainage system.

The tunnels are very long, but only 400 meters of tunnel are available for viewing by the public. To set the atmosphere, battle sounds pay from speakers throughout the tour.

Hotel El Encanto Terrace

Head to the terrace restaurant and bar at Hotel El Encanto. The stunning view of Puebla’s cathedral in the background is only rivaled by the wonderful food and drinks. The towers are more than 70 meters tall – the highest in Mexico.

Volcanos: Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl

If you’re looking for a hike or feeling adventurous, you should visit the twin volcanos of Mexico; Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl. Currently Popocatépetl is off limits to visitors, due to an eruption in 1994, but you can still visit and hike Iztaccíhuatl.

Calle de los Dulces

This street in Puebla is well known for producing some of the region’s most delicious, sugary treats. Try some of the most well-known treats, including: camote, muégano and las tortitas de Santa Clara.

Casa de Los Muñecos

The exterior of this renowned restaurant has some of the most beautiful tile work in the entire city.

If you’re into architecture, we also recommend checking out: Casa del Alfeñique, Capilla del Rosario, Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesúsa, and the Ricardo Legorreta designed La Purificadora hotel.

Museo Amparo

Lovers of art, and art lovers generally, should visit the Museo Amparo while in Puebla. Located in two colonial buildings, this free museum houses one of the best collection of Mexican art in Latin America. The museum was originally opened in 1994, and now houses pieces from pre-Hispanic art to modern art.

If you’re looking for a view, be sure to checkout the terrace.

Rosary Chapel (Capilla del Rosario)

The Capilla del Rosario, located in the Templo de Santo Domingo, is a massive church in the middle of downtown Puebla. The Capilla del Rosario is one of Mexico’s preeminent examples of Baroque architecture. The chapel itself has gold moldings, onyx, 22-carat gold leaf, and original tile work.

Xanenetla

Xanenetla is one of Puebla’s younger neighborhoods, and is well known for its street art and vibrant residents.

Fuertes de Loreto y Guadalupe

The two forts of Loreto and Guadalupe are old military buildings in the heart of Pubela. These forts served as the main battlefield in the Siege of Pubela during the Second French Intervention in Mexico.

Catedral de Puebla

This cathedral is located on the city of Puebla’s main square. This church is widely considered to be one of Mexico’s best cathedrals. It was constructed in 1575 and has a tiled roof inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

Museo Internacional del Barroco

This museum is $10 to enter, and gives tourists an amazing experience. The building itself has stunning architecture (perfect for an instagram shot, or two), and the art collection tells the history of the Baroque movement.

La Pasita

This local favorite is a unique cantina. The drinks they serve are rumored to aide in digestion, and most locals will grab them while walking around in the afternoon. It closes at 5:30pm, so be sure to arrive early.

The shop is full of old, somewhat historical items. One of the glasses is rumored to have been used by Ignacio Zaragoza, the military man who led the Mexican arm during the Cinco De Mayo battle.

We recommend drinking the traditional pasita. It is a small shot of mystery liquid, and tastes like raisins.

Biblioteca Palafoxiana

This library dates back to 1646, and is one of the oldest public libraries in North America and the first public library in Mexico. It houses nearly 43,000 books and UNESCO has named it the “Memory of the World.”