My first Mexican City
I had a rough outline of the cities I wanted to see. Puebla was one because of its rich cultural history. Also because of the location and weather. Centrally located in the heart of Mexico up in the highlands, it has a milder cooler climate than other famous cities. Most locals do not speak English, so it was a good place to immerse in learning Spanish. I felt super safe in the Centro where the streets and architecture are beautiful and historical.
A City Full of History
A city steeped in history and heritage, Puebla holds significant importance in Mexican history. Founded in 1531, it stands as one of the oldest colonial cities in the country.
The Battle of Puebla
Fought here on May 5, 1862, marked a decisive victory for Mexico against the invading French forces, giving birth to the widely celebrated Cinco de Mayo holiday.
I recommend visiting Puebla if you like…
- Shopping
- History
- Walking
- REAL Traditional Mexican Food
- Museums
- Culture
- Arts and Crafts
- Pottery
- Gothic Architecture and Churches
Dining and Cuisine
A little searching and you can find anything you want. Puebla is a little more traditional in that restaurants close earlier than in other big cities. And on Mondays or Tuesdays, you might not even find many restaurants open.
Take a food walking tour immediately!
I am a true believer in taking a tour immediately to get acquainted with a city. A food walking tour is a great way to get your bearings and you have the full attention of a local expert for great suggestions.
Here are some foodie walking tours I recommend based on ratings and my own research.
Regional Dishes
Puebla is famous for…
- Mole Poblano: A complex and rich sauce made from chilies, spices, and chocolate, served over chicken or turkey and accompanied by rice and tortillas.
- Chiles en Nogada: A patriotic dish, featuring roasted poblano peppers filled with a mixture of ground meat, fruits, and spices, topped with a creamy walnut sauce, and garnished with pomegranate seeds.
- Cemitas: Cemitas are traditional sandwiches hailing from the Puebla region of Mexico. They feature a specific type of sesame seed-studded roll known as “Cemitas” that gives the sandwich its name. Inside, you’ll find a flavorful combination of ingredients, typically including breaded and fried milanesa (pork, beef, or chicken cutlet), avocado, Oaxacan cheese, papalo (a local herb), chipotle peppers, and other fresh toppings, creating a mouthwatering and satisfying culinary experience.
Most popular tacos
- Tacos Árabes: A specialty of Puebla, featuring marinated and spit-roasted pork or beef, typically served in a pita-like flatbread with garlic sauce and salsa.
- Tacos al Pastor: Marinated and grilled pork cooked on a vertical spit, served with pineapple, onion, and cilantro.
Unique Foodie Experiences I Recommend
The Best Things to Do in Puebla
Many things you can do on your own but there are some activities, I suggest a tour. I haven’t been on a bad tour yet. And they really know how to do it here in Mexico. They take all the stress of planning out of it so you can focus right on what you want to see.
Biblioteca Palafoxiana
Visit the oldest Library in the Americas 
Tour the Cinco de Mayo Tunnels
With a history dating back to pre-Columbian times, these miles of tunnels were instrumental in winning the battle of Cinco de Mayo. 
Get a panoramic view of Puebla
These buses leave regularly from the center Zocalo. you cab buy your tickets right there. there are many different tours leaving the area so make sure you found the correct one.
Visit One of the Many Museums
There’s no shortage of museums in Puebla. Downtown in the city center you can find many contemporary and historical museums. In the same zone, you can take the Teleferico and get a birdseye view of Puebla.
Visit the Historical Zone of the Forts
A sprawling park that features the forts used during the battle of Cinco de Mayo, as well as many other museums. All are located in an expansive landscaped park with pathways that meander from museum to museum.
Day trip to Cholula
The great 1000-year-old ruins of the Great Pyramid of Cholula
We took a taxi from Puebla and toured the town on our own. But if you want to be spoiled and take a tour.
Viator Tour to Cholula from Puebla
Africam Safari
A unique drive-through zoo with opportunities for special encounters. Visit site
If you don’t have your own car, you can jump on one of the trams.
Try Mole, Where it was Invented
Puebla is where the conception of the Mexican Mole happened. You can find many varieties available at any restaurant.
The Arts District
Downtown has a very cute arts district that you can keep on meandering to find restaurants and other shopping neighborhoods.
Walk One of Puebla’s Colorful Municipal Markets.
Shop vendors for local produce, meats, and food vendors. There are a few to choose from so you may want to try a couple.
Where to Stay – Accommodations
There are all kinds of options and price points available. I am more economically minded and I wanted to be immersed in the city, so I chose a homestay. I found a cute little Airbnb for under $40 a night. And when you book a month, I have gotten my rate down to $30/night.
Click here to see my stay on Airbnb.
Want to know how I find an apartment in a safe neighborhood? Click here
But you can find any price point you want from dorm rooms to luxury.
Click on the links below to go directly to Puebla.
I have booked tens of stays and experiences using Airbnb. Iconic Mexican Cities do not have to cost an arm and a leg.
If you’re on foot like me, you want to be as close to the center as possible. I recommend staying in the pink zone shown on the map.
More of my Photos
