Puebla's Top Attractions: Colonial Sights & Mexican Traditions

Puebla
David Walter
February 8
Written by Carlos Rivera

Experience the charm of Puebla, a city rich in history and culture. Visit its stunning churches, taste its delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in its traditions. Don't miss out!

Things to do in Puebla: Puebla, known as the 'City of Angels', is one of Mexico's most fascinating destinations. Its historic center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with architectural gems such as the Puebla Cathedral and the Santo Domingo Church. Be sure to try the famous local dish, mole poblano, and visit the Amparo Museum to learn more about the city's history.

Puebla is also renowned for its talavera pottery, which you can find in numerous workshops and stores. During your visit, you can enjoy traditional festivals like the Puebla Fair and Holy Week, which fill the streets with color and music.

1. Puebla Cathedral

Historical Monuments and Architecture
a statue of an angel on top of a gate
Puebla Cathedral / Seomara Palominos, Unsplash

Puebla Cathedral, also known as the Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, is one of the main tourist attractions in the city. Built in the 16th century, this majestic cathedral is a prominent example of Mexican colonial architecture.

Its baroque facade and imposing towers will welcome you as you enter its interior, where you can admire beautiful religious artworks such as paintings, sculptures, and altarpieces. You can also climb one of the towers and enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit Puebla Cathedral and marvel at its architectural and cultural splendor. It's a must-see that will transport you back in time!

2. Amparo Museum

Museums and Art Galleries
black metal candle holder on orange wall
Amparo Museum / Daniel Lloyd Blunk-Fernández, Unsplash

Amparo Museum is a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts in Puebla. Located in the heart of the historic center, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and artworks that span from pre-Hispanic times to the present day.

Admire the pre-Columbian sculptures, indigenous artifacts, and colonial paintings that reveal the region's rich history. Amparo Museum also features temporary exhibitions that showcase contemporary artists and explore relevant themes in today's society.

Immerse yourself in Mexican culture and delve into the history of Puebla as you wander through Amparo Museum. Don't miss the opportunity to learn about the cultural legacy of this city, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

3. Church of Santo Domingo

History and Cultural Heritage
cathedral interior
Church of Santo Domingo / Debby Hudson, Unsplash

Discover the majesty of the Church of Santo Domingo in Puebla, one of the main tourist attractions in the city. This church, also known as Iglesia de Santo Domingo, is an impressive example of baroque architecture in Mexico.

The Church of Santo Domingo was built in the 16th century and has a rich history. Its facade is one of the most elaborate in Puebla, with ornamental details and sculptures representing religious figures.

Visiting the Church of Santo Domingo is a unique experience that will transport you to the past and allow you to appreciate the beautiful art and spirituality that permeates the place. You can't miss this magnificent site if you're looking for things to do in Puebla.

4. Talavera Pottery Workshops Puebla

Museums and Art Galleries

Dive into the rich tradition of Talavera, a ceramics that has been part of Mexican culture for centuries. At the Talavera pottery workshops in Puebla, you can witness the manufacturing process of these beautiful pieces up close, from clay to final decoration.

Discover the history of Talavera as you explore the workshops and admire the skilled hands of the artisans. Talavera from Puebla is internationally recognized for its quality and beauty, and each piece tells its own cultural and artistic story.

In addition to appreciating the art, you'll also have the opportunity to participate in hands-on workshops to create your own Talavera piece. Let your creativity soar and take home a unique souvenir from your visit to Puebla!

5. Puebla Fair

Entertainment and Pop Culture

The Puebla Fair is an annual event held at the fairgrounds of the city. For several weeks, the place is transformed into a festive and fun-filled environment for the whole family.

Live music concerts are held, where great national and international artists perform on the main stage. There are also amusement rides for all ages, from roller coasters to carousels for the little ones.

The Puebla Fair is also famous for its delicious traditional food. You can taste typical dishes such as mole poblano, cemitas, chalupas, and many others. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in local gastronomy while enjoying the fair.

6. Holy Week in Puebla

History and Cultural Heritage

Discover the fascinating Holy Week celebrations in Puebla!

Holy Week is one of Mexico's most important and emotional festivities. The city of Puebla, with its rich history and religious heritage, is the perfect place to experience this tradition in all its splendor. During this week, the streets fill with devotion and fervor, providing a unique experience for visitors and believers.

Things to do in Puebla during Holy Week

The processions are the central event of Holy Week in Puebla. Each day, different brotherhoods parade through the streets of the historic center, carrying banners, religious images, and staging biblical passages. It is an impressive spectacle that you cannot miss.

In addition to the processions, you can also admire the colorful altars set up in the churches and cathedrals of Puebla. These altars are decorated with flowers, candles, and religious figures, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and contemplation.

7. Mole Poblano Dish

Food and Markets$$$

The Mole Poblano dish is one of the most representative dishes of Mexican cuisine and a culinary treasure of the city of Puebla. This delicious dish combines a variety of ingredients and flavors to create a unique culinary experience.

Mole Poblano is a thick and flavorful sauce made with chilies, chocolate, and spices. Its preparation requires patience and dedication, as each ingredient is cooked slowly to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

To enjoy an authentic Mole Poblano dish, you can visit one of the many traditional restaurants in Puebla, where you can taste this dish accompanied by chicken, turkey, or pork. The combination of spicy and sweet flavors in the mole creates a unique taste experience that you should not miss during your visit to Puebla.

8. Historic Center of Puebla

Historical Monuments and Architecture

The Historic Center of Puebla, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is a place full of history and charm. With over 2,000 historical buildings, this colonial city will transport you to another time.

Among the main attractions to do in Puebla are its majestic Cathedral, the Church of Santo Domingo, the Barrio del Artista, and the Municipal Palace. Walk along its cobblestone streets and admire the colonial architecture that characterizes this gem in the state of Puebla.

In addition, the Historic Center of Puebla offers a wide variety of museums that showcase the rich history and culture of the region, such as the Amparo Museum and the International Museum of the Baroque. Don't miss the opportunity to marvel at the artwork, historical collections, and temporary exhibitions that these museums have to offer.

9. Heritage Route of Puebla

History and Cultural Heritage

The Heritage Route of Puebla is an unparalleled experience for history and culture enthusiasts. In this route, you will find a wide variety of historical monuments and buildings that will transport you to Mexico's colonial past.

Discover museums and art galleries showcasing works by renowned Mexican artists, both classic and contemporary. Admire the beauty of murals and sculptures that adorn these cultural spaces.

Immerse yourself in nature as you explore the natural spaces and parks of the Heritage Route of Puebla. Enjoy hikes and bike rides surrounded by beautiful landscapes and panoramic views.

10. Puebla Street Food Tour

Food and Markets

Embark on an exciting culinary journey through the city of Puebla and discover the essence of the local gastronomic culture. On this Street Food Tour, you'll have the opportunity to taste a wide variety of typical dishes, from tacos and quesadillas to chiles en nogada.

Walking through the cobblestone streets of Puebla, you'll immerse yourself in a vibrant and colorful atmosphere, filled with mobile food stalls offering authentic street food. Local chefs will guide you through the best-kept secrets of Puebla's cuisine, sharing with you traditional recipes and historical anecdotes.

This tour will allow you to savor authentic Mexican cuisine while exploring Puebla's main tourist attractions. Don't miss this opportunity to taste the best of local gastronomy and discover the unique flavors of the city.

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