Things To Do
in Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan is an ancient Mesoamerican city located in Mexico, known for its impressive pyramids and structures. It was one of the largest cities in the pre-Columbian Americas, with a population estimated to be over 100,000 at its peak. The city was built between the 1st and 7th centuries AD and is renowned for its well-planned layout, including the Avenue of the Dead and the Pyramid of the Sun.
Teotihuacan is a UNESCO World Heritage site and remains a popular archaeological and tourist destination today.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Pyramid of the Sun early to avoid crowds. Climb to the top for stunning views of the ancient city.
Explore the Pyramid of the Moon and its surrounding plazas. Don't miss the Temple of the Feathered Serpent next.
Enjoy a traditional Mexican dinner at a nearby restaurant. Reflect on the day's discoveries and relax under the stars.
Start with a guided tour of Teotihuacan for a deeper understanding of its history. Walk down the Avenue of the Dead.
Visit the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and learn about the intricate carvings. Take some time for photos and appreciation of the site.
Attend a cultural live show showcasing Aztec traditions. It’s a perfect way to end a day steeped in history.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and archaeological significance as one of the largest ancient cities in Mesoamerica.
- Impressive architectural features, including the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, showcasing advanced engineering.
- Cultural diversity, as it was home to various ethnic groups, offering insights into ancient Mesoamerican life.
- Tourism attraction with opportunities for guided tours, educational experiences, and cultural events.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site status, which helps preserve its historical and cultural importance.
- Tourism can lead to overcrowding, impacting the site's preservation and visitor experience.
- Environmental concerns, such as erosion and pollution, threaten the archaeological site.
- Accessibility issues for some visitors due to terrain and location.
- Potential for commercialization, which might detract from the site's cultural significance.
- Limited facilities compared to modern tourist destinations, which may not meet all visitor expectations.
Best Activities in Teotihuacan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the breathtaking view from the top of this ancient pyramid.
Take a leisurely walk along this ancient ceremonial boulevard and observe the impressive architectural structures.
Experience the stunning ancient city from the air with a hot air balloon ride.
Explore the archaeological site and its surrounding areas on a guided biking tour.
Places to Visit in Teotihuacan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the ancient city and surrounding landscape.
Provides a picturesque view of the Avenue of the Dead and the entire archaeological complex.
Known for its intricate carvings and offers a unique perspective of the site.
Food in Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A pre-Hispanic dish of thick tortilla stuffed with various fillings like beans, cheese, or fava beans and topped with salsa and nopales. Local vendors in Teotihuacan's street markets and around the pyramids offer this delicious dish.
Must-Try!
An ancient Mesoamerican alcoholic beverage made from the fermented sap of the agave plant. Pulquerias in Teotihuacan provide an authentic setting to savor this traditional drink.
Tender, slow-cooked meat, usually lamb or mutton, flavored with herbs and spices. Look for family-owned eateries in the area that serve this flavorful dish, often accompanied by fresh tortillas and salsas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of street food delights such as tamales, gorditas, and grilled corn smothered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder—a must-visit for an immersive local culinary experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting Teotihuacan, it is important to show respect for the sacred sites and structures, such as the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. This can involve refraining from climbing on the ruins and being mindful of the spiritual significance of the ancient city.
It is important to observe and respect the local customs and traditions of the Teotihuacan area. This can include being aware of traditional dress, greetings, and social customs, and being open to learning about and participating in local cultural practices.
Visitors to Teotihuacan are encouraged to respect the natural environment and archaeological sites by not littering, avoiding the removal of artifacts or pieces of architecture, and being mindful of the impact of their visit on the preservation of the area for future generations.
Safety
Tipping in Teotihuacan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Teotihuacan, Mexico, as service charges are often included in the bill at restaurants and hotels. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip of 10-15% is appreciated.
In Teotihuacan, Mexico, cash is the primary form of payment, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. However, major credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and to inquire about payment methods before making transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with pleasant weather and blooming landscapes. Expect moderate crowds.
Hot and humid weather. Expect larger crowds and higher tourist activity.
Mild weather with occasional rain. Expect fewer crowds and comfortable sightseeing.
Cool and dry weather. Best time to visit for avoiding crowds, but some attractions may have limited hours or closures.
Teotihuacan at Night
Hiking in Teotihuacan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park located about 30 km from Teotihuacan, offering a variety of trails through pine and oak forests, great for hiking and nature observation.
Located roughly 35 km from Teotihuacan, this mountain range features a network of trails suitable for hiking, with scenic views of the surrounding valleys.
A lesser-known hiking spot about 40 km away, offering rugged terrains and panoramic views. Ideal for adventurous hikers looking to explore.
Located around 60 km from Teotihuacan, this park presents extensive trails and diverse ecosystems, from forests to volcanic landscapes.
Approximately 55 km from Teotihuacan, this park combines history with nature, offering hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and beautiful landscapes.
Aiports
How to reach Teotihuacan by plane.
The main international airport serving Mexico City, located approximately 50 kilometers from Teotihuacan.
An international airport located about 70 kilometers from Teotihuacan, serving the Toluca area and nearby regions.
An international airport located approximately 130 kilometers from Teotihuacan, serving the Puebla metropolitan area.
Approximately 190 kilometers away, this airport serves the Querétaro area with international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Teotihuacan was a large urban center that attracted people from various Mesoamerican cultures, creating a diverse demographic mix.
The majority of Teotihuacan's population were commoners who engaged in agriculture, craft production, and trade.
A smaller, elite class that held political and religious power, often associated with the city's temples and palaces.
Skilled craftsmen who produced goods such as pottery, textiles, and obsidian tools, contributing to the economy and culture.
Individuals involved in trade, who played a crucial role in connecting Teotihuacan with other Mesoamerican cities.
A specialized group overseeing the temple complexes and religious rituals, important for maintaining the society's spiritual life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A Mesoamerican sport that involved using the hips to hit a rubber ball through a stone hoop. It held significant ritual importance.
Running was a common activity and often part of ceremonial games, showcasing agility and endurance.
Dancing was not just entertainment but involved intricate movements synced to music, often incorporated into religious ceremonies.
Used both for hunting and as a competitive sport, archery demonstrated precision and skill.
A physical contest that tested strength and technique, often part of local competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Teotihuacan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Mexican cuisine heavily features meat, many eateries in Teotihuacan offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of classic dishes. Restaurants like La Gruta and Los Colorines provide diverse menus with options suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find accommodating choices in Teotihuacan's restaurants and street food stands. Corn-based dishes such as tlacoyos and tamales, along with fresh fruits and vegetables, offer satisfying gluten-free alternatives.