Things to Do in Puebla

Why is Puebla called the “City of Angels”?

Have you ever wondered why Puebla is known as the “City of Angels”? Legend has it that a heavenly court traced its streets and placed the biggest and heaviest bell in the cathedral. However, we believe there are other reasons why angels shelter this city:

Its nearly 365 Baroque domes that outline the horizon.
The exquisite flavors of its gastronomy, such as mole and chiles en nogada.
The vibrant blue of its Talavera pottery.
Colonial houses transformed into museums and hotels.
Above all, the warmth and hospitality of its people.

Puebla: A World Cultural Heritage City

For these reasons and so many others, Puebla de Zaragoza is a deserving World Cultural Heritage city, and a must-visit destination in Mexico. Located about two hours from Mexico City, Puebla offers a wealth of cultural, religious, and historical attractions.

Historical Center

The Historical Center is home to stunning examples of Spanish Baroque architecture:

The cathedral, which took two centuries to build and boasts the highest towers in Latin America.
The Rosario Chapel, where every inch is adorned with gold and Talavera tiles.

Nearby, the Amparo Museum houses an impressive collection of pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern art. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for breathtaking views of the city.

Steps away, 5 Oriente Street is the heart of Puebla’s Talavera pottery scene, recognized by UNESCO as World Cultural Heritage. Visit workshops and galleries to see how these artistic ceramics are hand-painted and crafted.

A Sweet Treat

No visit to Puebla is complete without indulging in its famous candies. Head to 6 Oriente Street to stock up on:

Borrachitos
Dedos de novia
Camotes de guayaba

While there, visit Casa del Alfeñique, a building richly decorated with ornamental mortar resembling the sugary alfeñique candy.

Weekend Activities

On weekends, Puebla comes alive with art and culture:

The Barrio del Artista is a hub for local painters, sculptors, and other artists working live in front of visitors.
The Barrio de los Sapos is a charming neighborhood filled with antique shops and curiosities.
Don’t miss the iconic La Pasita canteen, known for its unique 22 liqueurs served in shot glasses.

Beyond the Historical Center

Outside the Historical Center, the southern area of Angelópolis has become a trendy hotspot for locals and tourists alike. Highlights include:

La Estrella de Puebla, the world’s largest Ferris wheel.
Museo Internacional del Barroco, a modern museum showcasing Baroque art.
The Forts of Loreto and Guadalupe, where the Battle of Puebla was fought, now featuring a cableway, planetarium, and parks perfect for picnics and bike rides.

A bike path from this area also leads to the nearby Magical Town of Cholula, known for its Great Pyramid and vibrant culture.