One of Mexico's most captivating destinations, Puebla is famed for its traditional cuisine, vibrant pottery, pleasant climate, and stunning colonial-era architecture. Now the country’s fourth largest city, its was the first to be built entirely by Spanish colonisers, and planned around the large central square which make up the UNESCO Heritage-listed old town. A fascinating architectural fusion of European, Central American and Arabic design influences, the city — and the best places to stay in Puebla — will delight heritage buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Stroll down the winding streets of the old town, popping into artists’ studios and independent boutiques, or pausing for a coffee and an ice cream in sun-drenched squares. Admire the ornate Baroque interiors of the Rosary Chapel (Capilla del Rosario), marvel at Baroque-era art and music at the Museo Internacional del Barroco, and peer at pre-Columbian artefacts and artworks at the acclaimed Amparo Museum.

Set on the plain of Cuetlaxcoapan — meaning "where the serpents change their skin" — Puebla sits close to the ancient indigenous settlement of Cholula. Home to the largest man-made monument ever constructed, Cholula offers visitors a fascinating opportunity to explore the region’s rich indigenous culture, and guided tours come highly recommended. Return to your pick of the best places to stay in Puebla to savour fantastic regional fare in the evenings — Puebla’s food is reason enough to make the trip!

The Best Places to Stay in Puebla

For Families

• Hotel Boutique Casareyna fuses historic charm with more modern touches. Big family rooms are great for those travelling with little ones - as is the central location. Kick back with a massage or facial before taking a dip in the pool with the whole family. 

For Foodies

• Meson Sacristia de la Compania, an eight-bedroom, family-run hotel with eclectic, antique-filled interiors, is famed for its top-notch restaurant. This award-winning spot also boasts a cookery school. One for foodies and fans of quirky design. 
• La Purificadora - a former water factory - has been transformed into a swish design hotel with reclaimed timber, slick black stone and chunky glass balconies. The hip bar is a favourite amongst well-heeled city slickers, and the restaurant serves exquisite contemporary Mexican cuisine. Brilliant for a food-focused evening. 

For Romance

• Quinta Real Puebla has charming period interiors, with arches, fountains and exposed pale stone. Couples will love the sophisticated rooms and suites, which have an attractive contemporary feel, and the romantic atmosphere of the courtyard in the evenings. The Tierra Mia restaurant is wonderful. 
• Banyan Tree Puebla is a five-star spot with beautifully appointed rooms and suites featuring cast-iron four-posters, big bathtubs and exposed stone walls. Sip cocktails by the rooftop pool after rejuvenating treatments at the spa. Chic and romantic. 
• Cartesiano Hotel will also delight couples. Elegant guest rooms are housed in a collection of heritage buildings, and have a hip, modern-luxe vibe with organic cotton sheets, soothing tones, clean lines and private patios. The hotel's wellness offering is excellent, and the state-of-the-art spa is a real treat. 

For Great Value

• Hotel La Quinta Luna is a historic house-turned-hotel in Cholula. Spacious rooms and suites have high beamed ceilings, antique furnishings and a pared-back, earthy colour palette. There's a lovely courtyard garden and regional dishes to be savoured at the restaurant. An affordable traditional choice. 
• Casona Maria was also once a grand house. Now a reasonably priced hotel in Puebla's old town, is a great choice for those keen to explore on foot. Rooms have dark wooden furniture and bold painted walls - some feature whirlpool tubs. 
• El Sueno Hotel & Spa boasts smart, more modern rooms in a restored townhouse. Think cast-iron beds, contemporary artwork and pretty terraces. The eatery is a real highlight. 

For an apartment or villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Puebla International Airport, or to the much larger Mexico City International Airport, 125km northwest of Puebla and two hours from the city by bus. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance. 
• You won't need your own transport to discover Puebla, but it does allow far more independence if you're keen to explore beyond the city. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel in May for the best weather (averaging around 20°C); summers can be very hot. This is a hugely popular time of year, so book your trip well in advance to avoid missing out.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Mexico City.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Mexico.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.