Your Ultimate Weekend Guide to Puebla, Mexico
Just two hours southeast of Mexico City, the vibrant city of Puebla is a cultural treasure trove often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor. Best known for its UNESCO-recognized historic center, baroque churches, and mole poblano, Puebla offers so much more than just architecture and iconic cuisine. On a recent visit, we discovered a city steeped in tradition yet brimming with creativity, style, and contemporary flair.
From design-forward hotels and world-class museums to hidden mezcalerías and bustling bakeries, Puebla offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern Mexican elegance. Here’s how to spend a stylish weekend in Puebla, what to explore, where to stay, and the spots you can’t miss eating and sip like a local.
What to Explore in Puebla
Puebla’s charm lies in its beautifully preserved colonial buildings, its tiled churches, and the stories etched into its streets. But beyond that, it’s a city that rewards the curious traveler.
Church of Santo Domingo
A masterpiece of baroque artistry, the Capilla del Rosario inside this church is often described as one of the most stunning chapels in Mexico. It’s a must-see.
📍 Avenida 5 de Mayo, Centro Histórico
Templo de San Francisco
A striking mix of history and devotion, this church holds the remains of Blessed Sebastián de Aparicio, a revered Franciscan monk.
📍 Avenida 14 Oriente 805, Barrio del Alto
Puebla Cathedral
One of the tallest cathedrals in Latin America, it anchors the Zócalo and boasts impressive twin towers, dramatic interiors, and centuries of heritage.
📍 Calle 16 de Septiembre, Centro
International Museum of the Baroque
Designed by Japanese architect Toyo Ito, this stunning, modern space celebrates baroque art and culture with immersive exhibits and architecture that’s as breathtaking as the collection inside.
📍 Atlixcáyotl 2501, Corredor Comercial Atlixcayotl
Biblioteca Palafoxiana
Founded in 1646, it’s considered the first public library in the Americas. A dreamy space for book lovers and architecture buffs alike.
📍 Calle 5 Oriente 5, Centro
Where to Stay in Puebla
Puebla’s hotel scene is a mix of colonial elegance, modern luxury, and boutique charm. These are three of our favorite stays that balance style, comfort, and great locations.
Rosewood Puebla (Our Top Pick)
Set across four restored colonial-era buildings, this hotel is a seamless blend of past and present. From rooftop pool views to underground tunnels, the thoughtful design honors Puebla’s rich history while embracing modern luxury. Expect excellent service, timeless architecture, and design-lovers’ interiors.
📍 Calle 10 Norte 1402, Barrio del Alto
📞 +52 222 122 2300
Hotel Cartesiano
Minimalist and serene, Cartesiano is a beautifully curated stay with peaceful courtyards, polished rooms, and a wellness focus that makes for a calming escape in the heart of the city.
📍 Calle 3 Oriente 410, Centro
Hotel La Purificadora
Designed by renowned architect Ricardo Legorreta, this boutique hotel sits on the site of a former 19th-century water purification plant. With a striking aesthetic of stone, glass, and wood, it’s one of the city’s most visually unique hotels.
📍 Callejón de la 10 Norte 802, Paseo San Francisco
Where to Eat in Puebla
Puebla is a culinary destination in its own right, especially known for its complex moles, traditional sweets, and rich street food culture. Here are some standout dining experiences:
El Mural de los Poblanos
One of the most beloved restaurants in Puebla for good reason. Expect traditional dishes like chiles en nogada, cemitas, and of course, mole poblano, all served in a beautifully decorated space.
📍 Calle 16 de Septiembre 506, Centro
📞 +52 222 242 0503
Dulcería La Gran Fama
A must-stop for regional sweets, including camotes, tamarind candies, and handmade dulces típicos. Perfect for souvenirs or satisfying your sweet tooth.
📍 Avenida 6 Oriente 208, Centro
📞 +52 222 242 3316
Casa Reyna
Attached to a boutique hotel, Casa Reyna is known for elegant dishes and refined takes on Puebla’s culinary staples. The mole sampler is a great introduction to the variety of flavors the region offers.
📍 Privada 2 Oriente 1007, Centro
📞 +52 222 232 0032
Where to Drink in Puebla
Puebla’s bar scene is intimate, atmospheric, and deeply rooted in mezcal culture. These are the places to sip, socialize, and soak in the city’s vibrant energy.
Miel de Agave
An inviting spot with an excellent mezcal selection and knowledgeable bartenders who love to share their favorite pours. Come late and stay longer.
📍 Av. 7 Poniente 110, Centro
Licorería San Pedrito
Trendy, dimly lit, and packed with locals, this is where you go for the vibe and the drinks. Order the Chamul, their best-selling cocktail made with espadín mezcal, lime juice, and tamarind pulp.
📍 Avenida 9 Oriente No. 16, Centro
My Final Thoughts
Puebla is a city that seamlessly merges the historic with the contemporary. Whether you’re wandering through centuries-old cathedrals, discovering bold local art, or sipping cocktails in a rooftop mezcalería, it’s a place full of layered stories and unexpected finds.
This is your sign to skip the obvious and plan a weekend in Puebla, you’ll leave with a deeper love for Mexico and plenty of beautiful memories.
Ready to go?
Contact Nomoon Travel to start planning your Puebla getaway with insider access, exclusive hotel rates, and customized experiences. Watch our Insta highlight here.
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This is a sponsored post by Rosewood Puebla. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.
