Things To Do
in Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan is an ancient Mesoamerican city located northeast of Mexico City, near San Juan Teotihuacán, at coordinates 19.6897, -98.8608. It was one of the largest urban centers in the pre-Columbian world and remains famed for its monumental pyramids and orderly grid layout along the Avenue of the Dead. Today, the ruins offer a window into a sophisticated society with impressive murals, palaces, and ceremonial spaces.
The surrounding valley and volcanic hills provide dramatic scenery that enhances visits to this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles. Arrive early at the Pyramid of the Sun to beat the crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Climb to the top of this monumental structure, where you can take in breathtaking views of the entire archaeological site and surrounding landscape.
After descending, stroll along the Avenue of the Dead, pausing to explore the smaller pyramids and temples that line this ancient thoroughfare. Visit the Temple of the Moon and admire its intricate carvings and historical significance. For lunch, indulge in local cuisine at a nearby eatery, sampling dishes such as tacos and tamales.
As the sun sets, find a spot to watch the colors change over the pyramids, creating a magical backdrop. Head to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy regional specialties paired with traditional drinks like mezcal. Conclude your day by reflecting on the historical wonders you've experienced and perhaps planning your next adventure.
Start your day at the Museum of Teotihuacan, where you can dive deep into the history and culture of this ancient city. Explore fascinating exhibits showcasing artifacts, murals, and models that depict life during Teotihuacan's prime. Take your time to absorb the knowledge and gain a better understanding of the significance of the archaeological site.
After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, experiencing the local flavors of the region. Post-lunch, join a guided tour that takes you through the lesser-known ruins of Teotihuacan, allowing for a more intimate look at the ancient society. Engage with the tour guide to learn about daily life, rituals, and the mysteries that still surround the city.
As evening descends, return to the museum for a special workshop, perhaps focusing on traditional crafts or cooking. Participate in hands-on activities that connect you with the culture in a meaningful way. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely stroll around the museum grounds, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🚌Public transportation fare | $0.50-2 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🎟️Teotihuacan site entrance | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Impressive ancient ruins with monumental architecture
- Accessible day trip from Mexico City with rich history and culture
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options nearby
- Heat and crowds in peak season can be challenging
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Ayúdeme" - Help me
Places to Visit in Teotihuacan
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic sightlines along the broad promenade with the pyramid looming in the distance; best in early morning or late afternoon light.
Open plaza framing the pyramid with avenues radiating outward; classic angles for wide shots and silhouettes.
Intricate wall carvings and well-preserved murals offer intimate close-ups and context shots of the site’s artistry.
Side courtyards with staircases and shadow play ideal for architectural detail and person-in-frame photography.
A long, straight view down the avenue provides dramatic leading lines toward distant pyramids, especially during golden hour.
Food in Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick corn tortillas stuffed with beans or cheese, often topped with nopales, salsa, and crema; commonly found at street stalls near the site entrances.
Must-Try!
Grilled corn served as kernels in a cup (esquites) or on the cob, typically dressed with mayo, cheese, lime, chili powder, and chili sauce.
Slow-cooked meat (often beef or lamb) served with onions, cilantro, and tortillas; frequently available at market stalls and nearby eateries.
Refreshing fruit waters such as horchata, jamaica (hibiscus), and tamarindo to quench your thirst after a climb.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, snacks, and handmade crafts; great for sampling short street bites and buying drinks.
Craft-focused market where you can find pottery, textiles, and carved souvenirs created by regional artisans.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, avoid touching or climbing restricted areas, and ask permission before photographing people or private crafts.
Some artisans prefer not to be photographed; a polite request is appreciated.
Follow posted rules and stay on designated paths to protect the ruins and your safety.
Haggling is common but done with a friendly tone; smile and be respectful.
Safety
Tipping in Teotihuacan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mexico, tipping 10-15% in restaurants is common if service is not included. Small tips for hotel staff, guides, and taxi drivers are appreciated but not always expected.
Cash (MXN) is widely accepted, especially for street vendors and markets. Many larger restaurants and shops take credit/debit cards, but carry cash for smaller stalls and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days and pleasant mornings; bring sun protection and water as temperatures rise quickly. Expect breezy afternoons with occasional showers.
Hot and humid with a possibility of afternoon rainstorms; start early, wear lightweight clothing, and stay hydrated. UV exposure can be intense; hats and sunscreen are essential.
Milder temperatures and lower humidity; good visibility for photography; light rain is possible but generally drier than summer.
Cool mornings and evenings with milder daytime temperatures; layers recommended; mornings can be chilly, but days are often sunny.
Teotihuacan at Night
Hiking in Teotihuacan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
High-altitude volcanic crater with scenic viewpoints, about a 1.5- to 2-hour drive from Teotihuacan; popular for hiking, alpine meadows, and panoramic city views.
A longer day trip south of the valley with forested trails and crater landscapes; suitable for a moderate hike with cool temperatures.
Airports
How to reach Teotihuacan by plane.
Mexico City's main international gateway, about 60-90 minutes by road depending on traffic; frequent flights worldwide and good connections to the Teotihuacan region.
Toluca's airport offering regional flights; a practical alternative for travelers staying closer to the Toluca basin, with shorter drive to Teotihuacan on some routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of nearby towns who work in tourism, crafts, and service sectors.
Visiting to explore the ruins, museums, and markets; a broad mix of ages and interests.
Individuals studying archaeology, history, and anthropology who visit for fieldwork or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely watched and played across the region; local matches and informal games are common in parks.
Popular in many central Mexican communities with local leagues and street play in some towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Teotihuacan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetarian options exist in local markets and casual eateries; look for corn-based dishes, beans, vegetables, and cheese. When ordering, ask for vegetables and beans without lard or meat-based broths, and request expressions like 'sin carne' (without meat) and 'sin lardor' (without lard).