Cholula

Introduction

You can explore the historic atmosphere of Cholula, a city and district situated within the metropolitan area of Puebla. You will find that this area is defined by its deep history and religious architecture.

During your visit, you can experience the following landmarks:

• The Great Pyramid
• The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios sanctuary located atop the pyramid
• Numerous local churches

Before you go

Before you arrive in this region, understand that Cholula encompasses the smaller municipalities of San Andrés Cholula, San Pedro Cholula, and Santa Isabel Cholula. You will find a vibrant atmosphere in these areas, which also serve as home to one of the main Mexican universities, the Universidad de las Américas de Puebla.

Getting there

You can reach Cholula by bus from various locations in Puebla. Choose between standard buses departing from the CAPU station or an express bus that travels from a station near the center of Puebla. If you prefer local transport, collectivos are available from a specific intersection in Puebla to take you toward your destination.

For those traveling from Mexico City, direct buses run from the TAPO Bus Station. You may also choose to travel by car via the Recta or hire a taxi from either the CAPU station or the center of Puebla.

Getting around

You can explore most of the sights in Cholula on foot, with the exception of the area near Camino Real where the bars are located, which requires a longer walk from the zocalo. If you plan for a longer stay, you can join the many locals and students who navigate the area by bicycle; local bike shops can help you find a ride.

While buses are available, they are primarily useful for traveling in and out of Cholula rather than for sightseeing within the town. Taxis are an option for getting around, though they tend to be more expensive than in nearby Puebla. If you choose to drive, be mindful of the numerous one-way streets surrounding the center which can be confusing for first-time visitors.

Where to stay

You can choose from a variety of accommodations that offer comfortable, spacious rooms and friendly service throughout the city. In the Centro area, you can stay in renovated historic buildings with modern bathroom fixtures or select a budget-friendly option located directly on the Zocalo featuring an outdoor swimming pool. Other options provide convenient locations situated between the city center and the nearby pyramid, where your stay may include a full Mexican breakfast.

Depending on your preference for amenities and atmosphere, you can find:

• Upscale accommodations with secure off-street parking and on-site restaurants serving authentic Poblano cuisine.
• Properties featuring large patio areas and outdoor swimming pools.
• Hotels situated within a block of the Plaza de la Concordia.

Food & drink

Savor local specialties like Cholulteca soup, cecina with chili pepper strips and queso de canasta cheese, or edible larvae known as cueclas. You can find "tacos placeros" featuring cecina, Bolivian coriander (pápalo), avocado, cheese, and green chili pepper strips, as well as "orejas de elefante," which are large tortillas filled with beans and topped with salsa, tomatoes, and cheese. In the Container City, seek out traditional Mexican tacos, including the rare Jamaica flower taco that mimics the taste of meat.

Explore a variety of dining experiences ranging from traditional meals like handmade quesadillas and enchiladas to eclectic dishes blending European tastes with Mexican creativity. Refresh your palate with locally produced hard apple cider, "ponche" made with blue corn and milk, or a cold drink of chocolate and water served in decorated wooden bowls. For a night out, you can enjoy large cocktails, traditional food at a botanero where you are fed as much as possible, or specialty drinks like tea with vodka while enjoying a hookah.

You can explore the massive Great Pyramid of Cholula, which stands as a monumental site topped by a historic church. While much of the structure is covered in dirt and vegetation, making it resemble a hill, you can view excavated stone structures at its base and capture photos of the town and the Popo volcano from the summit. Nearby, you can visit a small museum that offers insight into the area's history. The city also features over 200 churches, including the famous 365 chapels where parties occur almost daily.

Explore diverse architectural styles ranging from the historic 17th-century house in the Santa María Xixitla neighborhood to the modern Container City, a complex of brightly painted shipping containers housing workshops and galleries. For those seeking nature, Parque Loro offers a petting zoo with various animals, including monkeys and jaguars, along with an auditorium for animal shows. If you visit in early September, you can experience the Festival of the Virgin of the Remedies. As a university city, you will find a wide array of nightclubs, bars, restaurants, and coffee houses throughout the area.

Three days in Cholula

Day one, you arrive in the historic area of San Pedro Cholula. You can explore the grounds surrounding The Great Pyramid and visit the Iglesia Nuestra Señora de los Remedios to experience the local atmosphere.

Day two, you travel toward the neighboring district of San Andrés Cholula. You spend your time exploring the local sights and enjoying the distinct character of this area while staying in nearby accommodations.

Day three, you head toward Puebla. You can visit the Zocalo or explore the Centro to experience more of the region's culture before your departure.