Overview
Mexico City to Oaxaca: Pottery & Aztec Pyramids
This short but oh-so sweet trip through Central Mexico captures some of the best parts of the country’s culture, landscapes, and tasty culinary traditions. You’ll visit the massive pyramids at the ancient Aztec capital of Teotihuacán before travelling to Puebla, a city famous for its talavera pottery and beautiful architecture. Next, you’re heading to Oaxaca where you’ll cap off your trip with a seemingly endless variety of delicious food and cultural traditions, including a visit to an “alebrijes” workshop where you’ll see these brightly coloured art pieces synonymous to the region being brought to life. Muy bueno, indeed.
Trip Highlights
- Climb the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacan, See the beautiful architecture and churches in Puebla, Sample mezcal at a local distillery, Try one of the delicious varieties of mole in Mexico’s gastronomic heartland
Itinerary
Mexico City is one of the biggest, most populated cities in the world: A culmination of years of history and progress. From the ancient Aztec civilization to the Spanish conquistadors; independence to reform; revolution to modern day, Mexico's capital is alive with tradition and pride.
Mexico City is one of the biggest, most populated cities in the world: A culmination of years of history and progress. From the ancient Aztec civilization to the Spanish conquistadors; independence to reform; revolution to modern day, Mexico's capital is alive with tradition and pride.
Mexico City is one of the biggest, most populated cities in the world: A culmination of years of history and progress. From the ancient Aztec civilization to the Spanish conquistadors; independence to reform; revolution to modern day, Mexico's capital is alive with tradition and pride.
Puebla, a city nestled in the heart of Mexico, is a captivating blend of colonial charm, vibrant culture, and rich history. Known as the "City of Angels," Puebla's well-preserved historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with stunning baroque architecture, colorful tiled buildings, and bustling markets. The majestic Puebla Cathedral, with its soaring bell towers and intricate façade, stands as a symbol of the city’s colonial grandeur. Nearby, the Rosary Chapel in the Church of Santo Domingo dazzles with its gilded altars, elaborate stuccoes, and a riot of colors that create an atmosphere of opulence and reverence.
Puebla is also a haven for food lovers, celebrated as the birthplace of some of Mexico’s most iconic dishes. The city is famed for its mole poblano, a rich, complex sauce made from over 20 ingredients, including chocolate and a blend of spices. It’s often served over chicken or turkey and is a must-try for any visitor. Other culinary delights include chiles en nogada, a seasonal dish of stuffed chilies covered in walnut sauce, pomegranate seeds, and parsley, representing the colors of the Mexican flag. The bustling Mercado de Sabores Poblanos offers a feast for the senses, where you can sample these traditional dishes and immerse yourself in Puebla’s vibrant gastronomic scene.
Beyond its historical and culinary allure, Puebla offers visitors a chance to explore its contemporary arts and culture. The Amparo Museum, housed in a colonial-era building, features an impressive collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts and modern art that reflects Mexico's diverse heritage. Meanwhile, the nearby Barrio del Artista (Artist’s Quarter) is an inviting neighborhood where local painters, sculptors, and musicians showcase their talents in open-air studios and charming galleries. Wander through its cobblestone streets, admire the street art, or even take a workshop to learn about traditional Mexican crafts.
A fun fact about Puebla is that it is home to the world's largest pyramid by base area, the Great Pyramid of Cholula. Though it resembles a hill covered in vegetation, the pyramid conceals a vast network of tunnels and chambers underneath. At its summit stands the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, a picturesque church offering sweeping views of the city and the backdrop of the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes. Whether you are drawn by Puebla’s history, architecture, or culinary delights, this city promises an enriching experience that captures the essence of Mexico.
Puebla, a city nestled in the heart of Mexico, is a captivating blend of colonial charm, vibrant culture, and rich history. Known as the "City of Angels," Puebla's well-preserved historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with stunning baroque architecture, colorful tiled buildings, and bustling markets. The majestic Puebla Cathedral, with its soaring bell towers and intricate façade, stands as a symbol of the city’s colonial grandeur. Nearby, the Rosary Chapel in the Church of Santo Domingo dazzles with its gilded altars, elaborate stuccoes, and a riot of colors that create an atmosphere of opulence and reverence.
Puebla is also a haven for food lovers, celebrated as the birthplace of some of Mexico’s most iconic dishes. The city is famed for its mole poblano, a rich, complex sauce made from over 20 ingredients, including chocolate and a blend of spices. It’s often served over chicken or turkey and is a must-try for any visitor. Other culinary delights include chiles en nogada, a seasonal dish of stuffed chilies covered in walnut sauce, pomegranate seeds, and parsley, representing the colors of the Mexican flag. The bustling Mercado de Sabores Poblanos offers a feast for the senses, where you can sample these traditional dishes and immerse yourself in Puebla’s vibrant gastronomic scene.
Beyond its historical and culinary allure, Puebla offers visitors a chance to explore its contemporary arts and culture. The Amparo Museum, housed in a colonial-era building, features an impressive collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts and modern art that reflects Mexico's diverse heritage. Meanwhile, the nearby Barrio del Artista (Artist’s Quarter) is an inviting neighborhood where local painters, sculptors, and musicians showcase their talents in open-air studios and charming galleries. Wander through its cobblestone streets, admire the street art, or even take a workshop to learn about traditional Mexican crafts.
A fun fact about Puebla is that it is home to the world's largest pyramid by base area, the Great Pyramid of Cholula. Though it resembles a hill covered in vegetation, the pyramid conceals a vast network of tunnels and chambers underneath. At its summit stands the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, a picturesque church offering sweeping views of the city and the backdrop of the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes. Whether you are drawn by Puebla’s history, architecture, or culinary delights, this city promises an enriching experience that captures the essence of Mexico.
For a taste of the true flavor of Mexico and its culture, don't miss Oaxaca. Time seems to have passed by this town. Women still grind their corn by hand, and feet are the preferred mode of transportation, but modern comforts are not forgotten. Delicious restaurants, exciting nightlife and great shopping are all found throughout Oaxaca. This town has a little of everything, including great weather. The temperature never naries far from 70 degrees all year long.
The Basilica de la Soledad features a statue of the Virgin Mary, revered throughout Mexico. Oaxaca also has three museums displaying the state's history and culture. Oaxaca's central marketplace, or Zocalo, is a rainbow of sights and sounds of authentic Mexico. A multitude of artisans making the highest quality items from hand can be found here. One of a kind objects from authentic pottery to intricate painted animals are just a few of their popular wares.
Oaxaca has built itself a reputation as one of the most lively night spots in Southern Mexico. There are nightly concerts at the Zocalo, and many discos are open every night of the week for dancing and fun. There are also several seasonal fiestas celebrating everything from the area's Indian culture to radishes.
For a taste of the true flavor of Mexico and its culture, don't miss Oaxaca. Time seems to have passed by this town. Women still grind their corn by hand, and feet are the preferred mode of transportation, but modern comforts are not forgotten. Delicious restaurants, exciting nightlife and great shopping are all found throughout Oaxaca. This town has a little of everything, including great weather. The temperature never naries far from 70 degrees all year long.
The Basilica de la Soledad features a statue of the Virgin Mary, revered throughout Mexico. Oaxaca also has three museums displaying the state's history and culture. Oaxaca's central marketplace, or Zocalo, is a rainbow of sights and sounds of authentic Mexico. A multitude of artisans making the highest quality items from hand can be found here. One of a kind objects from authentic pottery to intricate painted animals are just a few of their popular wares.
Oaxaca has built itself a reputation as one of the most lively night spots in Southern Mexico. There are nightly concerts at the Zocalo, and many discos are open every night of the week for dancing and fun. There are also several seasonal fiestas celebrating everything from the area's Indian culture to radishes.
Included
- Your G for Good Moment: Alebrijes Artisan Community Visit, Oaxaca
- Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment – Meet Your CEO and Group
- Your Discover Moment: Oaxaca. Guided tour of Teotihuacan. Orientation walk in Puebla. Orientation walk and market visit in Oaxaca. Alebrijes Artisan Community Visit. Cooking demonstration with local expert in Oaxaca. Free time in Puebla and Oaxaca. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.