Things to do in
Puebla

Get in: by plane

Puebla’s closest airport is Hermanos Serdán International Airport (IATA: PBC). It’s located in the city of Puebla and serves as the primary airport for the region. This airport offers domestic flights to various destinations within Mexico.

✈️ Flight deals to Puebla.

You can get to the city by:

• Taxi 🚕:  You can book an airport transfer here.
• Uber: E-hailing services like Uber, Cabify and Didi are available.

Get in: by bus

Traveling to Puebla from Mexico City is simple by bus due to the proximity of both cities. Buses operate regularly between the two cities throughout the day and night. You can catch a bus from TAPO Terminal or Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City). Tickets cost around MXN $190 for standard service and MXN $212 for more comfortable first-class seats. Buses depart roughly every half hour from both locations, taking about 2 hours to reach Puebla’s main bus terminal, CAPU. There’s also a 4 Poniente terminal in downtown Puebla for Estrella Roja buses. For those new to Puebla, taking a bus from the 4 Poniente terminal is a convenient choice. It’s a safe way to reach your destination, and you can catch city buses to the Historic Center from CAPU by crossing the bridge and taking bus number 44.

Get around

Getting around Puebla is quite straightforward. You can use city buses and Moovit, which is a handy app to find bus connections, displaying bus line numbers and allowing you to filter for direct routes. The fare is typically MXN $8.50 (Nov 2021), paid in cash, as there’s no public transport card. Buses generally operate from about 07:00 to 22:00.

Alternatively, e-hailing services like Uber, Cabify, and Didi are available for convenient transportation. Taxis are a safe option as well, with fares usually ranging from MXN $60 to MXN $120 (Sept 2021). It’s customary to negotiate the fare with the taxi driver since taxis in Puebla don’t use meters. If the offered fare isn’t agreeable, you can simply wait for the next taxi.

Places to visit by foot:

• Puebla’s Historic Center
• Zócalo (Main Square)
• Church of Santo Domingo
• Amparo Museum
• El Parián Market
• Barrio del Artista
• Mercado de Sabores Poblanos (Puebla Falvors Market)

Where is Puebla located?

Puebla is a state in Mexico, located in the central region of the country, southeast of Mexico City, and pretty close to it.

Is it safe to travel to Puebla?

Puebla is generally a safe city for tourists. Like any destination, it’s essential to take standard safety precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings. It’s advisable to stay informed about the current local conditions and follow travel advisories.

Avoid unforeseen events and take with you an insurance policy that covers any problem on your trip. 

What to pack?

When packing for Puebla, consider the local climate and your planned activities. Bring lightweight clothing for the city’s mild weather, but pack some warmer layers for cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city’s Historic Center. Don’t forget sun protection like hats and sunscreen. If you plan to visit churches or religious sites, modest clothing is essential, covering shoulders and knees. Finally, remember essential items like travel documents, medication, and any personal items you may need.

Are there any kid-friendly activities and entertainment in Puebla?

Yes, Puebla offers several kid-friendly activities. You can visit African Safari, a wildlife park where children can see animals from around the world. Puebla also has museums like the Amparo Museum with interesting exhibits for kids. Exploring the city’s Historic Center is enjoyable for families. You can try local sweets and traditional dishes at the food markets. There are also nearby natural areas like the Cuexcomate volcano, which is fascinating for kids. Enjoying Mexican culture through music, dance, and festivals is another fun experience for children.

Are there any dress codes and cultural norms to follow in Puebla?

In Puebla, it’s best to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting churches or traditional areas. When entering a church, it’s respectful to remove hats and sunglasses. Politeness and saying “por favor” (please) and “gracias” (thank you) are valued. While tipping is customary, 10-15% in restaurants is typical. Overall, being polite and respectful is appreciated in Puebla.

Are there any sustainable travel initiatives in Puebla?

Yes, Puebla has taken steps towards sustainable tourism. Many hotels and businesses focus on eco-friendly practices, like reducing water and energy consumption. Some offer recycling programs and use local, organic products. Additionally, there are efforts to preserve cultural heritage and protect natural sites. By supporting these initiatives, visitors can contribute to sustainable travel in Puebla.

Is there any internet and mobile phone access in Puebla?

Yes, Puebla generally has good internet and mobile phone access. You’ll find free Wi-Fi in many hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Mobile networks like Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T have good coverage. It’s easy to stay connected while visiting Puebla.

What's the best time to visit Puebla?

The best time to visit Puebla is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to April. The weather is pleasant, and you’ll avoid the heavy rains that occur during the wet season. However, if you’re interested in seeing the vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations, plan your trip in late October and early November. This is a unique cultural experience in Puebla. Be sure to check local event calendars to align your visit with any festivals or events you’d like to attend.

What cultural events and festivals are celebrated in Puebla?

Puebla has a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, making it an exciting destination for travelers. Cinco de Mayo, celebrated on May 5th, is marked with parades, reenactments, and traditional Mexican music, commemorating the Mexican victory over the French in 1862. In November, the Festival Internacional de Jazz y Blues features renowned national and international musicians. May brings the Festival Internacional de Teatro Avant Garde (FITA), showcasing cutting-edge theater performances. The state fair, La Feria de Puebla, with concerts and carnival rides, usually takes place from late April to early May. Semana Santa, the Holy Week, features religious ceremonies, and Día de los Muertos brings vibrant celebrations in late October and early November.

Which is the most commonly spoken language in Puebla?

The most commonly spoken language in Puebla is Spanish, given that it is the official language of Mexico, and it’s widely used for communication in the region.

What is the currency and exchange in Puebla?

The currency used in Puebla and throughout Mexico is the Mexican Peso, often abbreviated as MXN. It’s essential to note that credit cards are commonly accepted in urban areas and major tourist destinations, but having some cash on hand is useful for smaller businesses or markets. You can exchange your money at local banks or exchange offices, and ATMs are widely available for convenient currency withdrawal. It’s wise to keep some small denomination pesos for purchases in places where credit cards might not be accepted.