11 Unforgettable Day Trips from Puebla: Explore the Best Nearby Towns & Hidden Gems

Planning day trips from Puebla opens up a world of exciting possibilities just beyond the city limits. Puebla’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring charming colonial towns, natural wonders, and cultural sites all within a short drive or bus ride.

From vibrant Cholula with its beautiful churches and flower fields to the serene beauty of scenic waterfalls and lakes, there’s something for every traveler’s taste. Each destination offers a unique glimpse into the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of this region.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a deeper cultural experience, these day trips from Puebla offer unforgettable escapes perfect for any itinerary.

Day Trips from Puebla #1: Atlixco

Located just a half hour outside of the city of Puebla, is the Pueblo Mágico of Atlixco. It's colorful, vibrant, and has incredible views from the top of the town. it certainly is one of our favorite day trips from Puebla, and despite its small size, it really has a lot to offer!

🌈 Walk the Colorful Stairs of Atlixco

Just within months of our first trip to Atlixco (in 2020) there was an incredible mural painted all along the giant stairs in the middle of town. This staircase has been painted for 15 days by a well known local artist named Juan Manuel Martinez Caltenco.

Not only is the mural beautiful to look at, but it is significant for Atlixco, because it depicts a woman and man from a folklore of the town.

👀 The Swing in  Atlixco

While you're in Atlixco, make sure you check out the best views of the city. Head up to the top of Cerro San Miguel, and you can find 360 views of the city, as well as the surrounding mountains.

On the top you'll also find a swing that will make you feel like you're on top of the world. Not to mention it and makes for a great photo opportunity!

Atlixco has a ton to offer, and you could easily spend a full day enjoying the bustling markets, colorful streets, and epic views.

Day Trips from Puebla #2: San Andres Cholula

Located less than a half hour away from Puebla, this Pueblo Mágico is a truly gorgeous town! San Andres Cholula is known for its 365 churches scattered throughout the city, and it's full of color and charm every corner you turn.

Make sure to check out the most famous church in Cholula. It's perched up on a hill right next to the pyramids, and called Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies. Enjoy the archeological zone around it, or get up close to admire the architecture.

Another church is is really cool is Capilla Real de Naturales, where you can actually walk on the rooftop that you see in the photo below! Keep in mind though, that it is only open on Sundays from 9 am-noon and 3 pm-6 pm.

If you happen to be visiting in October, Cholula is also one of the best day trips from Puebla because of its vibrant marigold fields! They are just right outside the center, and have the iconic Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies church as a backdrop.

Day Trips from Puebla #3: Iztaccihuatl

From the city of Puebla you can enjoy the view of the enormous volcanoes surrounding it. But what's even more amazing? You can actually visit these volcanoes up close to get a truly awesome experience.

Iztaccihuatl is a 5,230 m dormant volcanic mountain that has four snow-capped peaks. As the third tallest mountain in Mexico, this hike isn't for the faint of heart, but is truly an epic experience.

Here are excursions to Iztaccihuatl:

Day Trips from Puebla #4: Popocatepetl

Another one of the coolest volcanos in the area is also one of the best day trips from Puebla, which is Popocatepetl.

It is actually one of the most active volcanos in Mexico, and is always snowcapped, giving it a striking appearance.

Unlike Iztaccihuatl, you cannot actually summit Popocatepetl due to its activity. However, the park actually has plenty of trails where you can enjoy views of the volcano.

Here are a couple of excursions that take you to Popocatepeti:

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Day Trips from Puebla #5: Laguna de Atexcac

Located just an hour and a half away from Puebla, Laguna Atexcac is a serious hidden gem of the area. The crater lake has a deep turquoise color, and is surrounded by mountains, making it truly picturesque. Hike up in just 10-15 minutes to be greeted with some seriously stunning views!

Want to go down to the lake? We suggest bringing some good sneakers and plenty of water, as it's pretty steep and goes far down! There is no entrance fee, and this spot we had completely to ourselves.

Day Trips from Puebla #6: Laguna Alcichica

While you're in the area of Atexcac, we also have another great find for you. Another lagoon that is off the beaten path is Laguna Alcichica. Actually, this salt lake is located just down the road from Laguna Atexcac. It is equally beautiful, but unique, and worth a visit.

You can see Laguna Alcichica from the side of the highway, and it doesn't seem to be anything special. Until you actually go right up next to, then you will see crystalized salt, and crystal clear waters. Make sure you go on a hot day for its refreshing waters!

Day Trips from Puebla #7: El Aguacate Waterfall

These waterfalls are not so easy to get to, but are definitely worth it for those who want some adventure! Located just 4o minutes from Puebla, this is a serious hidden gem. More formally known as las Cascadas de San Agustín Ahuehuetla, the waterfalls can be reached from the town of San Agustin.

When you arrive to the town, you can park and start your journey to the falls. They are a 2 km hike (about 40 minutes) from the town. Although it can be intense, the place is totally worth it!

Day Trips from Puebla #8: Cantona Ruins

Located about an hour from the city, is a mesoamerican city that is a bit off the beaten path. The ruins are extensive and fascinating, and the entrance is just 65 pesos! (about $3 USD).  This archeological site is open every day from 9 am to 6 pm.

Day Trips from Puebla #9: Ex-Hacienda de Chautla

If you're looking for one of the most European looking places in Mexico, then you won't want to miss out on the ex-hacienda of Chautla.

Just an hour from Puebla, this former 1700's farming estate has been transformed into a tourist site that includes a public park, a lake, mansion, and trails to enjoy the surrounding greenery. 

You could easily spend a few hours at the ex-hacienda de Chautla by exploring the building, renting a boat, or simply relaxing in its beautiful natural landscapes surrounding it.

Want the full experience at Chautla? Here are some tours you can sign up for:

Day Trips from Puebla #10: Ixtacuixtla

If you plan on visiting Chautla, you can also take a slight detour to Ixtacuitxla on your way (if you go on your own).

This small town is worth visiting for its adorable colorfully-painted church, and the vibrant staircase leading up to it, making it one of the most colorful spots in Mexico to add to your bucket list.

Day Trips from Puebla #11: Huejotzingo

This small historic city is known for its production of cider and fruit preserves, and also its annual carnival.

It has well-preserved historical sites such as a convent and a museum that are worth visiting, and is just under an hour from Puebla city, making it a great day trip for those looking to explore a bit more off the beaten path.

So are you ready to check out these incredible day trips in Puebla, Mexico? From charming Pueblos Magicos to stunning nature, we know you'll love all of the fun things to do outside of the city.

We also have a ton of other Mexico travel guides to check out (over 40!), as well as plenty of others coming up, so make sure to subscribe to our newsletter for all of our latest updates.

Ready to book your trip to Puebla, Mexico? We're here to help! Scratch Your Mapa now offers travel planning services so that you can sit back and relax, and let us plan your perfect trip. Not only that, but we're creating some epic group trips to Mexico in the near future!

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