Living in Puebla México
Travel Guide Series
Table of Contents
Living in Puebla, Mexico (Travel Guide Series) – a captivatingly beautiful and culturally rich city that may be less well known outside Mexico. With its vibrant street markets, colonial architecture, and delicious traditional cuisine, Puebla is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
This guide series will cover Puebla’s history, culture, traditional markets, street cuisine, lodging, transportation, must-see attractions, and undiscovered treasures. It will offer thorough information and suggestions for those hoping to take in the finest of Mexico’s fourth-largest city. Vamos…
Puebla de Zaragoza
Puebla is a city located in central Mexico, known for its rich history, culture, and architecture, earning the nickname “Puebla de los Angeles” (City of Angels). Located in east-central Mexico, about 80 miles (130 km) southeast of Mexico City – the capital of the state of Puebla and is the 4th largest city in Mexico.
The city is home to many colonial-era buildings and architectural masterpieces, such as the Puebla Cathedral and the Rosary Chapel, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Puebla is known for its traditional pottery, Talavera ceramics, delicious cuisine, and famous mole poblano (Yum).
Puebla is also known for its vibrant cultural scene. The city hosts many traditional festivals throughout the year, such as Puebla’s International Festival of Baroque Music and Puebla’s International Film Festival. Puebla is also home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Puebla is also known for its beautiful countryside and its outdoor activities. Mountains and volcanoes surround the city, and there are a number of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails in the area. Just within the State of Puebla, there are a staggering 10 Pueblo Magicos, so why not start at the heart of it all – Puebla City?
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Puebla, Mexico - Travel Guide, Accommodations, Weather, Culture, Food, Transportation, Cost of Living, Entertainment, Tourism, Historical Landmarks, Colonial Architecture, Nightlife, Festivals, Museums, Markets, Shopping, Things to Do and See in Puebla - Where to Stay - Pueblo Magico - Mexico City - Living in Pueblo - Historic Centro
Photos: Courtesy Wikipedia.org
Photos: Courtesy Wikipedia.org
Photos: Courtesy Wikipedia.org
Discovering Puebla's Rich History: Exploring Colonial Architecture and Historical Landmarks
Puebla is more than a city with stunning landmarks and relics of the past – Puebla City, Mexico, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history and stunning colonial architecture. Founded in 1531, Puebla quickly became one of the most important cities in New Spain, and its historic center is a testament to its former opulence.
Puebla Cathedral
The Puebla Cathedral is one of the largest and most impressive cathedrals in Mexico. Its construction began in 1575 and was completed in 1653. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Spanish Baroque architecture, with its soaring towers, elaborate façade, and ornate interior. As a crowning jewel of Puebla’s heritage, adorned with intricate sculptures of colonial craftsmanship, is a must-vist for travelers.
Rosary Chapel
The Rosary Chapel, located inside the Church, is one of the most lavishly decorated chapels in the world. Its walls and ceilings are covered in over 100 tons of gold leaf and intricate stuccowork, breathtaking frescoes, and its altar is a masterpiece of Baroque art. The Chapel is not merely a place of worship but a stunning work of art.
Afligidos Church
The Afligidos Church is a Baroque church located in the heart of Puebla. It is known for its unique façade, which is decorated with over 700 sculptures of angels and saints, including a depiction of the Passion of Christ.
The church was built in the 17th century and is considered to be one of the most important religious sites in Puebla. Its interior is just as impressive as its exterior, with a soaring ceiling, an ornate altar, and a number of important religious artworks.
Biblioteca Palafoxiana
Not your ordinary library – The Biblioteca Palafoxiana is a historic library in Puebla’s city center. It is the oldest public library in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The library was founded in 1646 by Juan de Palafox y Mendoza, the Bishop of Puebla. It contains a collection of over 45,000 books, including many rare and valuable volumes dating back to the 16th century.
Zócalo - The Iconic Heart of the City
The Zócalo, or main square, is the heart of Puebla. It is surrounded by some of the city’s most important historical landmarks, including the Puebla Cathedral, the Rosary Chapel, and the Governor’s Palace.
Like almost every Mexican city, The Zócalo is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists. It is often the site of festivals and events throughout the year.
Puebla City Hall
The Puebla City Hall is a beautiful colonial building located in the Zócalo. It was built in the 17th century and is one of the most important government buildings in the city. Its façade is decorated with intricate stone carvings and sculptures, and its interior features a grand staircase and a number of ornate chambers.
The City Hall is open to the public and offers free guided tours. Visitors can learn about the history of the building and the city of Puebla.
Governor's Palace
The Governor’s Palace is a beautiful colonial building located in the Zócalo. It was built in the 16th century and is the official residence of the Governor of Puebla. The Governor’s Palace is a former royal palace that now houses the government of Puebla state. It is a magnificent building with a richly decorated façade and a lavishly appointed interior.
The Palace is open to the public and offers free guided tours. Visitors can learn about the history of the building and see the Governor’s official office.
Popocatépetl Volcano
Puebla offers a great jumping-off point to reach the famous volcano, a popular tourist attraction offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Popocatépetl is one of the most active volcanoes in Mexico and the most famous, having had more than 15 significant eruptions since the arrival of the Spanish in 1519. The volcano has been in an almost constant state of activity since 1994, with regular eruptions of ash and gas.
The name Popocatépetl comes from the Nahuatl words “popōca” (smoking) and “tepetl” (mountain). The volcano is home to a variety of wildlife and is also a sacred site for the Nahua people, who believe that the volcano is home to the gods.
Savoring Puebla's Delicious Cuisine: Exploring Traditional Markets and Street Food
Puebla, renowned for its rich history and colonial architecture, also boasts an equally impressive culinary heritage. From traditional street food to gourmet restaurants, Puebla has something to offer every craving and I’m always a big fan of street food.
Puebla's Markets
One of the best ways to experience Puebla’s cuisine is to visit one of its traditional markets. The Mercado de Artesanías (Arts and Crafts Market) is a great place to find souvenirs but also a foodie’s paradise. Here, you can sample a variety of traditional Puebla dishes, such as chalupas, cemitas, and tlayudas. Let’s take a look at a few.
Mercado de Artesanías
The Mercado de Artesanías is a great place to try some of Puebla’s most iconic dishes, such as mole poblano, chalupas, and cemitas. Mole poblano is a rich and complex sauce made with chocolate, chili peppers, and various spices. It is typically served over chicken or turkey and is one of Puebla’s most famous dishes.
Chalupas are small tortillas topped with various ingredients, such as shredded chicken, pork, beef, salsa, and cheese. Cemitas are large sandwiches made with a sesame seed bun, Puebla-style sausage, papalo leaves, and other fillings.
Mercado de Dulces
The Mercado de Dulces is a paradise for sweet lovers, with its many stalls selling traditional Mexican candies and desserts. Some of the most popular items include camotes (sweet potatoes), jamoncillo (a type of fudge), and mole poblano candy.
Others of interest: Callejon de los Sapos, Mercado el Parian, Jardin de Analco, Barrio de Analco Puebla, and Talavera Poblana Jesus Es El Senor.
Bargaining
Bargaining is expected at traditional markets in Mexico, so don’t be afraid to haggle with the vendors. You can usually get a good deal if you are willing to buy in bulk or as a frequent visitor.
Street Food in Puebla
Now to my favorite pastime for exploring every Mexican city (besides getting lost exploring) – Street Food. This is one of the first things that comes to mind when considering what Mexico is famous for.
Here are some of the most popular Puebla street foods and traditional dishes to try:
- Mole poblano: A complex and delicious sauce made with chocolate, chili peppers, and spices. Typically served over chicken or turkey.
- Chalupas: Small tortillas topped with a variety of ingredients, such as salsa, cheese, and meat.
- Cemitas: A type of sandwich made with a sesame seed bun, pulled pork, and a variety of toppings, such as avocado, onions, and cheese.
- Tlayudas: Large tortillas made with corn dough and topped with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, meat, and vegetables.
- Tacos árabes: Tacos made with pita bread and filled with meat, onions, and spices.
- Tortitas de Santa Clara: Sweet pastries filled with a mixture of walnuts, almonds, and raisins.
- Mole de caderas: A type of mole made with goat meat. It is typically served during the winter months.
If you’re looking for a more in-depth culinary experience, consider taking a Puebla food tour. These tours take you to some of the city’s best restaurants and street food vendors, where you can sample a variety of dishes and learn about Puebla’s rich culinary history.
Puebla’s cuisine is a harmonious blend of history and flavor, with each dish telling a story of the city’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re savoring the iconic Mole Poblano or delighting in the simplicity of chalupas, Puebla’s street food is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. Don’t forget to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city’s traditional markets, where you can taste, haggle, and discover unique treasures to take home as souvenirs.
No matter how you choose to experience Puebla’s cuisine, you’re sure to have a delicious and unforgettable dining experience.
Explore the Best of Puebla: A Guide to Activities and Attractions
Puebla is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from exploring historical landmarks to sampling delicious cuisine to attending cultural events. Here are a few ideas, but feel free to wander and find your own adventure. Book your tours here.
Puebla is a city that offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From historical landmarks and cultural events to outdoor activities and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in Puebla.
Must-see historical landmarks: Puebla’s rich history is reflected in its many historical landmarks and monuments. Some of the must-see landmarks include the Puebla Cathedral, the Rosary Chapel, the Afligidos Church, and the Biblioteca Palafoxiana.
Cultural events and festivals: Puebla is also known for its vibrant cultural scene and traditional festivals. Visitors can experience traditional festivals such as the Puebla’s International Festival of Baroque Music, Puebla’s International Film Festival, or my personal favorite Dia de Muertos. The Puebla’s International Film Festival is another popular event showcasing films from Mexico and worldwide.
Outdoor activities: Puebla’s natural beauty is also worth exploring. Visitors can take a hike in the nearby Popocatepetl volcano, visit the hot springs at Hierve el Agua, or take a bike tour through the city. How about a trip to Africam Safari Zoo even? Puebla is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a great place to enjoy outdoor activities. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding are all popular activities in the area.
Delicious cuisine: Puebla is renowned for its delicious traditional cuisine, and visitors should not miss the opportunity to try some of the local specialties we’ve discussed and take a food tour.
- Other activities: Visit the Museo Amparo, El Parian Market, and learn about Puebla’s Talavera pottery tradition. Consider purchasing a Puebla City Pass to save money on admission to popular attractions.
Cultural Attractions: Discovering Puebla's Vibrant Culture and Festivals
We have been discovering just how significant this cultural hub of Puebla is steeped in culture and history, with a vibrant arts scene and a rich culinary tradition. Visitors can explore a variety of cultural attractions, from museums and galleries to churches and festivals.
One of Puebla’s most popular cultural attractions is the Amparo Museum, which houses a collection of over 40,000 pre-Hispanic and colonial Mexican artifacts. The museum also has a significant collection of modern and contemporary Mexican art.
Another famous museum is the Puebla Museum, which tells the story of the city’s history from its pre-Hispanic roots to the present day. The museum has a variety of exhibits on archaeology, anthropology, and art.
The Museum of the Royal and Pontifical University is housed in the former Royal and Pontifical University of Mexico, the first university in the Americas. It houses a collection of books, manuscripts, and other artifacts from the university’s history.
Some other great points of interest: Archaeological Zone of Cholula, Popocatepetl National Park, Cathedral, Historic Downtown, The Parian, The Carmen, Baroque’s International Museum, Sopos Square, Palafoxiana Library, Tourist Train, Artis Neighborhood, Analco Neighborhood, Rosario Chapel, Star of Puebla, Cableway, Container City, and so much more.
Puebla also hosts several traditional festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals include:
Some of the most popular festivals include:
- Puebla’s International Festival of Baroque Music: This festival, held every year in October, features performances by musicians from all over the world.
- Puebla’s International Film Festival: This festival, held every year in November, showcases films from Mexico and around the globe.
- Feria de Puebla: This annual fair, held in September and October, features rides, games, food, and live music.
- Day of the Dead: Puebla’s Day of the Dead celebrations are some of the most elaborate and colorful in Mexico. The city comes alive with parades, altars, and other festivities. Read our story about Dia de Muertos HERE.
- Carnival: Puebla’s Carnival is a week-long celebration that features parades, music, and dancing.
Tips for Enjoying Puebla’s Cultural Attractions
- Purchase your tickets in advance, especially if you are visiting during a peak tourist season.
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Be respectful of the artwork and other artifacts.
- Take your time and savor the experience.
See more events and attractions HERE
Resources
Google Flights – Trip.com – Travelocity – Hotwire – Trivago – Kiwi – TripAdvisor – Wayaway – Verbo – Cheaptickets – Booking.com – Hostelworld – Skyscanner – Expedia – Babbel –
During Your Travel
Tours: Viator and Get Your Guide – We use to book our tours
Insurance: EKTA and Visitors Coverage – Travel Insurance Abroad
Walmart – Amazon –Best Buy – Canva – Skull Shaver –
Getting to Puebla Mexico
Getting to Puebla can be done in several ways:
By plane: Puebla has an international airport called Hermanos Serdán International Airport (PBC), which receives flights from major Mexican cities such as Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara, as well as some international destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the city center.
By bus: Puebla is well connected by bus to other major cities in Mexico. There are several bus companies that operate regular services to and from Puebla, such as ADO, Estrella Roja, and Primera Plus.
By car: Puebla is easily accessible by car and is located on major highways that connect it to other parts of Mexico. Visitors can rent a car or take a bus tour to explore the city and nearby areas.
By train: There is a train service that connects Puebla to Mexico City and other nearby towns, it’s called Tren Suburbano, and it’s an efficient and cheap way to travel to Puebla from Mexico City.
Cost of Living in Puebla: A Budget-Friendly Destination
Puebla is a relatively budget-friendly destination, especially compared to other major cities in Mexico. Here is a breakdown of some of the costs you can expect to incur while visiting Puebla:
Accommodations
Puebla has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. Here are some budget-friendly options:
- Hostels: There are a number of hostels in Puebla offering dorm beds and private rooms at reasonable prices. $10-$20 per night
- Guesthouses: Guesthouses are a good option for those looking for a more personal touch. They often offer private rooms with breakfast included. $20-$40 per night
- Mid-range hotels: Several mid-range hotels in Puebla offer comfortable rooms and amenities at a reasonable price. $40-$100 per night
Transportation
Puebla has a well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to get around without spending much money. Taxis and buses are both affordable and convenient.
- Taxis: Taxis are available throughout Puebla and can be hailed on the street or ordered by phone. $2-$5 per ride
- Buses: Puebla has a bus system that serves all areas of the city and surrounding towns. $0.50-$1 per ride
Food
Puebla has delicious and affordable cuisine. Street food is a great way to try a variety of local dishes without spending a lot of money. Traditional meals at restaurants are also very reasonable.
- Street food: There are many street food vendors throughout Puebla selling a variety of dishes, such as tacos, quesadillas, and tlayudas. $1-$3 per meal
- Traditional meals: Mexican meals at restaurants are also very affordable. Be sure to try mole poblano, chalupas, and cemitas. $5-$10 per meal
Activities
There are many free and low-cost activities to enjoy in Puebla. Here are a few ideas:
- Museums: Many museums in Puebla offer free or discounted admission on certain days of the week.
- Historical sites: Many historical sites in Puebla are free to visit, such as the Zócalo and the Puebla Cathedral.
- Cultural events: Puebla hosts various cultural events throughout the year, many of which are free to attend.
Tips for saving money in Puebla:
- Eat at street food stalls and traditional restaurants.
- Use public transportation instead of taxis.
- Take advantage of free and low-cost activities and cultural events.
- Purchase a Puebla City Pass to save money on admission to popular attractions.
- Stay in a hostel, Airbnb, or guesthouse instead of a hotel.
With its affordable accommodation, transportation, food, and activities, Puebla is a great destination for budget-minded travelers. Discover More HERE.
Discover the Charm of Living in Puebla: A Day in the Life of an Ex-Pat
Puebla is a city that offers a unique blend of traditional culture and modern amenities, making it an attractive option for travelers looking to experience a different way of life. This section will give an insight into what a day in the life of an ex-pat living in Puebla might look like and how they discover the charm of living in this Mexican city.
A typical morning: An ex-pat living in Puebla might start their day with a traditional Mexican breakfast at a local street vendor or café, such as a tamale, or a tlacoyo. After breakfast, they might take a walk through the city center, admiring the colonial-era architecture and visiting the local markets to buy fresh ingredients for the day’s meals.
Afternoon activities: In the afternoon, an ex-pat might take a class to learn Spanish, or take a pottery class to learn the traditional art of Talavera ceramics. They might also take a day trip to one of the nearby towns such as Cholula or Tlaxcala, or take a hike in the nearby Popocatepetl volcano.
- Evening and nightlife: In the evening, an ex-pat might enjoy a delicious traditional meal at one of Puebla’s many excellent restaurants, or take in a performance at a local theater or cultural center. Puebla’s nightlife is also vibrant, and there are many bars and clubs to choose from, where visitors can enjoy live music and dance the night away.
Puebla offers an abundance of activities, cultural and natural attractions, delicious food, and a welcoming community, making it an ideal place to live.
Summing Up Your Puebla Experience
Puebla, Mexico, is a city with a lot to offer visitors. It is a budget-friendly destination with a rich history and culture, stunning colonial-era architecture, historical landmarks, a vibrant cultural scene, traditional festivals, outdoor activities, natural beauty, traditional cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and a welcoming community.
We have explored Puebla’s rich history and culture, including its colonial architecture and historical landmarks, traditional markets and street food, cultural attractions and festivals, as well as accommodation and transportation options with many outdoor activities options to explore. We have provided detailed information and budget-friendly recommendations for travelers looking to experience the best of this vibrant Mexican cultural hub.
In addition to the information provided in this guide series, there are many other things to see and do in Puebla. Some additional recommendations include visiting the historic forts of Loreto and Guadalupe, taking a day trip to the nearby town of Cholula, or visiting the Puebla’s ex-convent of Santa Rosa.
I hope that this guide series has been helpful in planning your trip to Puebla. We would love to hear about your experiences and any additional recommendations you may have. Feel free to share your feedback and let us know if there’s anything else we can do to help you make the most of your time in Puebla.
Puebla is a city that offers a unique and exciting experience for those who choose to call it home. The rich history and culture, delicious traditional cuisine, and beautiful natural landscapes make it a truly special place to live.
Let’s remember our position as a quest in another country and do our best to speak and walk humbly with dignity and respect for our surroundings: we’re the ones coming here to visit or live our best lives, and we, like many people trying to get in another country – are appreciative of the opportunity. Thank you for having me, Puebla.
As always, we appreciate you, and… Live Con Todo
Sources:
- Wikipedia
- Unesco
- Brittanica
- Trip Advisor
- Personal Experiences
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Calvin L Miller II
Mexico Travel Writer / Blogger / Vlogger
Creator of the Con Todo Brand