Puebla Mexico, a World Heritage site, so full of color, history, architecture and kind friendly people. 85 miles/136 kms southeast of Mexico City you can get here by taking the Estrella Roja bus line non-stop service from TAPO bus station in Mexico City to the CAPU bus station in Puebla. If you are not spending time in Mexico City, there is a bus stop at the airport itself. Most bus stations have a prepaid point to point taxi service. From CAPU to Puebla city centre is 74 Pesos, 3 miles/4.8 kms.
Municipal Palace, Puebla- Mexico
The zocalo is the hub of activity and bustling with tourists and locals alike and has such a wonderful magical air about it. North of the zocalo is the Municipal Palace which also houses the Art Gallery, Tourism information office and a couple of tour operator desks. You can buy HOHO/city tours here or day trips to the cities of Cholula (110/- pesos) and Atlixco (220/- pesos). Both are 6 hour tours departing at noon. To see more pictures, click here.
Cathedral of Puebla
On the south side is the grand, majestic Cathedral of Puebla which took 300 years to complete. The fence around the Cathedral is adorned with metal works of Angels and looks lovely in the night when lit up.
Cathedral fence, Puebla-Mexico
All around the historic centre are Churches, colorful buildings, street markets, mercados’ and Talavera shops. Puebla is best know for Mole Poblano (chicken in a spice, herb and chocolate sauce garnished with sesame seeds).
Mole Poblano, a Puebla Original!
Chiles en Nogada (Poblano chilies stuffed with shredded meat, fruits and spices, topped with walnut sauce and garnished with parsley and pomegranate seeds) and world renowned Talavera pottery. To see more pictures, click here.
Street, Puebla-Mexico
The Uriarte Talavera workshop 0.7 miles/1.1 kms west of the zocalo has paid tours that are enlightening on the art form and they have some delightful pieces that can be purchased.
Talavera, Puebla-Mexico
Northwest of the Zocalo you will find a street market that stretches 4 blocks north. It is busy during the day and electric at night. All sorts of vendors-food, balloons, clothes, shoes, street musicians, electronics……The atmosphere is amazing and safe too. To see more pictures, click here.
Night market, Puebla-Mexico
Mercado el Parian is located 2 blocks east of the zocalo which is a classic old-style marketplace. You will find Talavera, souvenirs, trinkets, magnets, restaurants and quaint statues/sculptures. Yes, Churches are everywhere and they are a true tribute of man’s adoration of God!
Mercado el Parian, Puebla-Mexico
Click here to see more pictures.
You should also consider visiting Mexico City, Cholula and Atlixco.
TIPS
- Exchange your currency for Pesos, look for the best rate available and pay for all expenses in Pesos, it is definitely to your advantage.
- Walk around, it is safe. Eat local food, very tasty and always fresh.
- Shop in the mercados and street markets, it’s a good experience.
- Talavera shopping can be tricky, look for the designers mark on the bottom of the piece and check this link for tips on how to identify genuine Talavera.
- Dresses and shoes are extremely low priced and good quality, come with an extra suitcase.
- Gratuities can be 20/- pesos which is just a little over a Dollar.
