For such a traveler that relishes culture, history, and gastronomy, there is very little bet atop traveling to Mexico. It was love at first sight with the ancient city bordering Puebla, such magical beauty would bewitch us on our very first day. While a majority would complete Cholula in a day’s trip, we opted for a week-long stay there to sense its real essence.
What is Cholula best known for?
Only because Cholula is known as “Pueblo Mágico,” a title used by the Mexican government to recognize towns that have adhered to natural beauty, historical radiance, cultural richness, and traditional heritage, it stands out. Also, as prize was bestowed on it here The Great Pyramid of Cholula, which is the largest pyramid in the world, by mass. However, instead of appearing like an Egyptian pyramid, its greenness and hilliness seem to tell a totally different story since its historical importance is really set apart from the tunnels beneath it.
Historical significance of cholula
This settlement was established 2,500 to 3,000 years ago. North America’s most ancient continuously inhabited settlement. Here history could be found in every stone or street you took.
Attractions in cholula.
Great pyramid of cholula.
The surface area of the biggest pyramid in the world. However, it does not resemble one at first sight because vegetation covers it, while treasures of history hide inside its body. The tunnels are open for visitors here, where one can see a look of the structure underneath.
Santuario de la Señora de los Remedios.
This church was built on top of the pyramid over the 16th century-yellow walls, two tall towers, and a whole city view of Cholula from above, making such a very photogenic place. The Popocatépetl volcano can also be seen if the weather is clear enough.
Streets and Zocalo in Cholula.
The perfect way to spend a Sunday is to walk through Zocalo and listen to all the street selling and children’s swings. Walking through many stunningly colorful streets, seeing local markets and cafes, and viewing street art is generally an enjoyable and relaxing experience, especially the Sundays when the market fills the main square.
Museo regional de San Andrés Cholula.
In front of the ancient sculptures, pottery, and folk traditions, on the other hand, lies a rather fine collection of Talavera pottery.
Santa María Tonantzintla and San Francisco Acatepec churches.
They are noted for their unique indigenous baroque architecture. The wall paintings are breathtaking, offering a unique medley of local culture and Spanish influence.
Where to sleep?
In Cholula, three dining options are offered, as follows:
- Luxury: Estrella de Belem B&B and Spa-a boutique hotel in the 19th-century mansion.
- Budget: Santa Josefita B&B-colorfully decorated before the Zocalo.
- Budget: Majikal B&B-entirely equipped apartments, fitted with kitchenettes for preparing small meals.
We chose to be near the Great Pyramid itself, as we wanted to navigate the areas easily on both sides, San Pedro and San Andrés.
Eating and drinking:
Cholula hosts a banquet of flavors. Vegetarian, vegan, or otherwise, it’s hard to go wanting here.
- La Colmena-Delicious vegan menu, with great homemade pasta.
- Gru Grú-Absolute heaven for those who can’t get enough of eating sushi made of vegetables.
- Barbarista-to die for an entire setting for grabbing that caffeine fix!
- El Taco Loco Vegano-street-right vegan tortas and gringas must be tried.
- 9 o 6 Comida Vegana-cheap, good, and vegan snacks!
What are the means of travel?
It’s such a small city, but a good place to walk. Everything’s near enough; the streets aren’t too tough to get around, and if you have to go a little far out, you can get a taxi or Uber or take my colectivo–that is, one of the little local minivans.
How do I reach Cholula?
If you’re near the city of Puebla, reach Cholula; it’s only about thirty minutes away. You can easily take a bus, a minivan, or an Uber to get there. Otherwise, you can take a direct trip from Mexico City, which would take you 2 and a half hours.
When to go?
November to May probably is the best time to visit Cholula. It is dry at this time of year, and cool, but it is also at altitude and can get pretty cold at night. The rainy season is June through October.
Travel tips:
- Bring pesos along with you, as there are many places that don’t accept cards.
- Know some basic sentences in Spanish or use Google Translate.
- Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock to short circuit the sun’s harsh rays.
- Pack comfortable shoes and loose clothing with layers.
Conclusion
The only city that meets the above definition is Cholula, where past and present, history and culture intermingle with simplicity. If you fancy a vacation zooming into relaxation with a slant of knowledge to its credit, why go anywhere else but Cholula, an enticing place, which will lift your spirits high and never let you forget it with its diverse beauty, compelling you to come back again and again? Been to Cholula? Tell about it below. Or if you have any questions, feel free to ask-we are always listening!
