Things To Do
in Tlaxcala
Tlaxcala is located in central Mexico and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It was one of the earliest settled areas in Mesoamerica, with a strong indigenous presence dating back to pre-Columbian times. The city is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant traditional markets where visitors can explore local crafts and cuisine.
Tlaxcala also offers beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and hot springs for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the majestic Basilica de Ocotlán. Enjoy breakfast at a local café nearby.
Take a walk around the Tlaxcala Cathedral and the main square to appreciate the colonial architecture. Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant serving regional dishes.
Visit the local artisan market to browse handmade crafts. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the town.
Hike to the stunning La Malinche National Park early in the morning. Absorb the natural beauty and fresh air of the mountains.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park. Spend the afternoon exploring the park's trails and biodiversity.
Return to Tlaxcala and relax at your accommodation. Have dinner at a local eatery that specializes in regional cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and cuisine.
- Beautiful landscapes, including mountains and valleys.
- Less crowded than major tourist destinations, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
- Affordable cost of living and travel compared to other regions in Mexico.
- Proximity to other important cities and attractions in Mexico.
- Limited infrastructure and public transport options compared to larger cities.
- Fewer amenities and entertainment options than more developed tourist areas.
- Economic opportunities may be less abundant compared to larger Mexican cities.
- Language barrier may be an issue for non-Spanish speakers.
- Can experience extreme weather conditions, including hot summers and occasional heavy rain.
Best Activities in Tlaxcala
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes of La Malinche National Park. This area offers various trails suitable for all skill levels, with breathtaking views from the summit of La Malinche volcano.
Take a stroll around the Ex-Convento de San Francisco, where you can enjoy the architecture and surrounding gardens. The site often hosts cultural events and has beautiful outdoor areas to relax.
Discover the fascinating murals and structures of the ancient Cacaxtla site. Ideal for those interested in history, this outdoor archaeological site provides a glimpse into pre-Hispanic culture.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride around Tlaxcala City, taking in the historical sites, local markets, and beautiful parks. Rentals are available, making it an accessible option for visitors.
Experience the rich biodiversity of the Ciénega de San Juan wetland. This area is ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts, with many species of migratory and resident birds to observe.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tlaxcala with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tlaxcala
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning natural park offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for hiking and photography.
An architectural marvel with beautiful interiors and exteriors, located in the heart of Tlaxcala, providing great photo opportunities.
This historic building features colorful murals and majestic architecture, offering both historical significance and great spots for photographs.
Known for its unique design, this iconic bullring provides interesting angles for photography, especially during events.
Several viewpoints in Tlaxcala offer breathtaking views of Mexico's highest mountain, Pico de Orizaba, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Explore the ruins and take photos of the impressive murals and fortress-like structures against beautiful natural settings.
The central square of Tlaxcala, surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings and lively atmosphere, perfect for capturing the essence of the city.
A charming church known for its beautiful architecture and scenic surroundings, offering great photo ops for those interested in history and culture.
A serene lagoon ideal for nature photography, especially at sunrise or sunset with reflections on the water.
A beautiful urban park that features walking trails, gardens, and viewpoints overlooking the city, great for capturing serene landscapes.
Food in Tlaxcala
Tlaxcala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Handmade corn masa stuffed with beans, cheese, or fava bean puree, and cooked on a comal. Try them at street food stalls in the central market or at local eateries like La Lupita or Tlacoyos El Negro.
Must-Try!
Thinly sliced and marinated beef or pork, then grilled and served with salsa and nopales (cactus). Look for it at traditional markets or carnitas stands like Los Portales.
Known as Mexican caviar, these are ant eggs harvested from the maguey plant. Enjoy them sautéed with herbs or in a taco at La Antigua Taqueria de Vale.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tlaxcala better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a hub for sampling local street food, such as barbacoa tacos, mixiotes, and traditional sweets like camotes and alegrías.
During festivals and events, this plaza comes alive with food stalls offering a wide range of regional delicacies, from esquites to tamales.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tlaxcala, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and direct eye contact. Close friends or family may greet each other with a hug or a kiss on the cheek. Always use polite language and titles when addressing someone, especially if they are older or in a position of authority.
Tlaxcala has a rich cultural heritage, so it's important to show respect for local traditions and customs. Participate in local festivals and customs if invited, and show appreciation for indigenous practices, crafts, and culinary traditions. Avoid making negative comments about cultural practices.
When dining with locals, wait for the host to invite you to start eating. It is polite to try a little bit of everything offered, and to express appreciation for the meal. Always keep your hands above the table and avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or money during meals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tlaxcala with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tlaxcala
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tlaxcala, as in many parts of Mexico, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is generally expected to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the total bill in restaurants. Tips are also commonly given to taxi drivers, hotel staff, and other service workers. While tipping is appreciated, it is not mandatory, and the amount can vary based on the quality of service received.
Payment methods in Tlaxcala include cash, which is widely accepted, and credit or debit cards, which are increasingly used, especially in larger establishments. Mobile payment options are also becoming popular, although acceptance can vary. Cash is often preferred in smaller markets or local businesses. It is advisable to carry small denominations of the local currency (Mexican Peso) for easier transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tlaxcala.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter in Tlaxcala is mild with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Nights can get quite chilly, dropping to around 5°C (41°F). This season is ideal for visiting as the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities, and you can enjoy the festive holiday atmosphere.
Spring is a pleasant time to visit Tlaxcala with temperatures gradually warming up, typically between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). This season also marks the blooming of flowers and various local festivals, making it a vibrant time to explore markets and cultural events.
Summer experiences warmer temperatures, usually around 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). It's also the rainy season, with afternoon showers common. Despite the rain, it's a lush and green time to visit, but travelers should be prepared for sudden weather changes and plan outdoor activities for the morning.
Fall brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73°F). The weather is generally dry, making it pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Additionally, November features cultural festivities, including the Day of the Dead celebrations, offering a deep insight into local traditions.
Tlaxcala at Night
Hiking in Tlaxcala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located east of Tlaxcala, La Malinche offers various trails with stunning views and a variety of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for hikers.
This hiking spot near Tlaxcala features scenic trails leading to the summit, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
A bit further from Tlaxcala, this national park is home to several hiking trails, including routes to the famous volcanoes, Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl.
A local ecotourism park with several well-marked trails, ideal for family hiking and enjoying nature close to Tlaxcala.
Located northeast of Tlaxcala, this area offers several hiking opportunities through lush forests and mountainous terrain.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tlaxcala through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tlaxcala by plane.
Located approximately 60 km from Tlaxcala, this airport serves the city of Puebla and surrounding regions.
Located roughly 120 km from Tlaxcala, this is Mexico City's main airport and one of the busiest in Latin America.
Located about 130 km from Tlaxcala, this airport serves Tuxtla Gutierrez and is a key hub for southern Mexico.
Approximately 150 km from Tlaxcala, located in Toluca, this airport serves the metropolitan area of Mexico City as well.
Situated around 200 km from Tlaxcala, it serves the city of Querétaro and surrounding central Mexico regions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Tlaxcala, comprising individuals of mixed indigenous and European descent.
Includes groups such as the Nahua and Tlaxcalteca, who retain their languages and cultural practices.
A smaller demographic group in Tlaxcala that traces its ancestry to the African diaspora.
A minority group that includes individuals with European ancestry, primarily Spanish.
The Soul of Tlaxcala
Discover the essence of Tlaxcala through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Tlaxcala, with numerous local teams and a strong following in both amateur and professional leagues.
Baseball has a significant presence in Tlaxcala, with local leagues and a dedicated fan base, especially among youth.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Tlaxcala, with school and community teams actively participating in local competitions.
Volleyball is a popular sport in Tlaxcala, played both recreationally and competitively, particularly among women.
While not a traditional sport, bullfighting is a cultural event in Tlaxcala, attracting audiences and involving local festivities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tlaxcala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes heavily feature meat, many eateries in Tlaxcala now cater to vegetarians and vegans. Look for options like nopales (cactus), enfrijoladas, and huitlacoche (corn smut) dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find suitable options such as tamales made with corn, ceviche, and aguachile, along with modern gluten-free offerings at cafés and restaurants.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tlaxcala with these cultural adventures.
