Backpacking in Puebla
UNESCO World Heritage site
🏆 Top pickcity ranked #6
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 8, 2026

Most people talk about Puebla’s churches and food, but the surprise for backpackers is how strongly it feels like a lived-in student city first and a tourist destination second, which changes everything about cost, safety, and nightlife. You’ll find it in central Mexico, a few hours east of Mexico City, tucked against the volcano line. As a base, it’s cheap, orderly, and easy to navigate, with a compact historic center, a clean bus system, and day trips to places like Cholula and the volcano viewpoints. The vibe is calm by day, bar-and-cantina lively at night, more “local friends and craft beer” than hostel-party chaos. Downsides: fewer hostels than Oaxaca, a bit conservative, and meeting other travelers takes more effort. But that’s exactly why it feels like you’re in Mexico, not in a backpacker bubble.

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Best time to go: September - May
Population: 1.7 million [inegi.org.mx]
Daily cost: USD15 to 30

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✨ Why go?
Ranked #6 city in MexicoWhy Puebla should be on your travel list

Puebla is a strategic stop for backpackers weaving through Mexico. It’s not just about the highlights; it’s about the value you get for your time and money. The city is a basecamp for day trips to nearby wonders, making it easy to explore without the hassle of constant packing.

Hostels here are not just affordable; they’re vibrant, fostering a sense of community among travelers. You’ll find delicious street food that won’t break the bank, allowing you to indulge without guilt. The walkability of Puebla means you can easily navigate its charming streets, soaking in the local culture at your own pace.

When the sun sets, the nightlife offers a mix of laid-back bars and lively spots, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Plus, with easy onward travel options, you can seamlessly … read more 👉

Puebla is a strategic stop for backpackers weaving through Mexico. It’s not just about the highlights; it’s about the value you get for your time and money. The city is a basecamp for day trips to nearby wonders, making it easy to explore without the hassle of constant packing.

Hostels here are not just affordable; they’re vibrant, fostering a sense of community among travelers. You’ll find delicious street food that won’t break the bank, allowing you to indulge without guilt. The walkability of Puebla means you can easily navigate its charming streets, soaking in the local culture at your own pace.

When the sun sets, the nightlife offers a mix of laid-back bars and lively spots, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Plus, with easy onward travel options, you can seamlessly continue your journey. If you’re looking for a city that balances comfort and adventure, Puebla is a smart choice, whether for a short stop or a longer stay.

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💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while visiting Puebla

Puebla Cathedral (Catedral Basílica de Puebla) — Towering twin spires and a richly decorated interior make this the city’s visual anchor; step inside for gilded altars, tiled floors and the enormous main altar that give a real sense of Puebla’s colonial power.
Capilla del Rosario, Templo de Santo Domingo — A baroque knockout: every surface is covered in gold leaf and intricate plasterwork. It’s small, overwhelmingly ornate, and one of Mexico’s most dazzling chapel interiors—best seen in person, not photos.
Biblioteca Palafoxiana — Founded in the 17th century and often called the oldest public library in the Americas; the long wooden stacks, old manuscripts and quiet atmosphere are a direct sensory link to Puebla’s intellectual past.
Museo Amparo — Smartly curated collections ranging from

… read more 👉

Puebla Cathedral (Catedral Basílica de Puebla) — Towering twin spires and a richly decorated interior make this the city’s visual anchor; step inside for gilded altars, tiled floors and the enormous main altar that give a real sense of Puebla’s colonial power.
Capilla del Rosario, Templo de Santo Domingo — A baroque knockout: every surface is covered in gold leaf and intricate plasterwork. It’s small, overwhelmingly ornate, and one of Mexico’s most dazzling chapel interiors—best seen in person, not photos.
Biblioteca Palafoxiana — Founded in the 17th century and often called the oldest public library in the Americas; the long wooden stacks, old manuscripts and quiet atmosphere are a direct sensory link to Puebla’s intellectual past.
Museo Amparo — Smartly curated collections ranging from pre-Hispanic pieces to contemporary Mexican art, plus a rooftop terrace with views over the historic center; great for a couple of hours when you want history with good lighting and context.
Museo Internacional del Barroco (MIB) — Eye-catching modern architecture and immersive exhibits that unpack the idea of the Baroque beyond churches—multimedia displays, temporary shows, and riverside grounds make it worth the short taxi ride from the center.
Fábrica de Talavera Uriarte (taller y tienda) — See traditional Talavera pottery made and hand-painted the old way, watch demonstrations, and buy real pieces (not the cheap knockoffs). Visiting a working workshop gives a tangible feel for a craft that defines Puebla.
El Parián (Mercado de Artesanías) — A compact handicraft market full of Talavera, textiles and woodwork—less tourist-chaos than some markets and excellent for scouting authentic souvenirs or watching artisans at work.
Callejón de los Sapos — A charming narrow street of colorful facades, antique stalls and weekend flea markets; it’s perfect for a slow wander, coffee, and browsing curios that tell small local stories.
Casa del Alfeñique — A small colonial house-turned-museum showcasing period rooms, funerary arts and local decorative traditions; informative and intimate, and a quiet counterpoint to the bigger tourist draws.
La Pasita (cantina tradicional) — Tiny, quirky bar famous for the house specialty ”la pasita” (a raisin liqueur), hung with fortune-telling cards and old-school Puebla charm; a quick, very local cultural experience—drink responsibly.

Nearby day trips: Cholula with its Great Pyramid and the explosive local churches (Santa María Tonantzintla/San Francisco Acatepec), Africam Safari for a relaxed wildlife drive, and the flower-filled town of Atlixco—my personal favorite to explore is Cholula.

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🏘️ NeighborhoodsUnderstanding the local layout

Puebla is a vibrant city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Here’s how to navigate its neighborhoods for the best backpacking experience.

Centro Histórico: This is the heart of Puebla, where colonial architecture meets bustling markets. It’s walkable, with plenty of budget-friendly hostels and eateries. The nightlife is lively, especially around the zócalo, making it ideal for short stays. You’ll find easy access to public transport, but the charm is in wandering the streets.

El Barrio del Artista: Known for its artistic vibe, this neighborhood is quieter but still close to the action. Street art and galleries abound, perfect for those who appreciate creativity. Costs here are moderate, and it’s a great spot for longer stays if you want to soak in the local … read more 👉

Puebla is a vibrant city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Here’s how to navigate its neighborhoods for the best backpacking experience.

Centro Histórico: This is the heart of Puebla, where colonial architecture meets bustling markets. It’s walkable, with plenty of budget-friendly hostels and eateries. The nightlife is lively, especially around the zócalo, making it ideal for short stays. You’ll find easy access to public transport, but the charm is in wandering the streets.

El Barrio del Artista: Known for its artistic vibe, this neighborhood is quieter but still close to the action. Street art and galleries abound, perfect for those who appreciate creativity. Costs here are moderate, and it’s a great spot for longer stays if you want to soak in the local culture. Walkability is good, but you might need to rely on taxis for late-night returns.

La Paz: A residential area with a more local feel, La Paz is less touristy and offers a glimpse into everyday life. It’s budget-friendly, with a mix of cafes and shops. While nightlife is subdued, it’s a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration. Public transport is accessible, making it suitable for both short and extended visits.

Cholula: Just outside Puebla, Cholula is famous for its archaeological sites and stunning views of Popocatépetl. It’s a bit pricier but worth it for the unique experience. The vibe is laid-back, with a mix of nightlife and quiet spots. Transport options are plentiful, making it easy to hop back to Puebla. Perfect for a day trip or a longer stay if you want to explore more.

⌛️ 1 day1-day itinerary for Puebla

Puebla, Mexico, is a vibrant blend of colonial charm and culinary delights. Known for its stunning Talavera pottery and rich history, it’s a city that invites exploration. You can easily spend a day here, soaking in the sights and flavors without feeling rushed.

Start your morning in the historic center, where the majestic Puebla Cathedral stands tall. Grab a coffee and a sweet pastry at a local café nearby—try the “mole poblano” pastry if you’re feeling adventurous. Afterward, wander through the zócalo, where you can admire the colorful buildings and perhaps catch a street performer.

In the afternoon, make your way to the Barrio del Artista, a lesser-known neighborhood that showcases local artists and their work. Here, you can chat with painters and maybe even pick up a unique piece of … read more 👉

Puebla, Mexico, is a vibrant blend of colonial charm and culinary delights. Known for its stunning Talavera pottery and rich history, it’s a city that invites exploration. You can easily spend a day here, soaking in the sights and flavors without feeling rushed.

Start your morning in the historic center, where the majestic Puebla Cathedral stands tall. Grab a coffee and a sweet pastry at a local café nearby—try the “mole poblano” pastry if you’re feeling adventurous. Afterward, wander through the zócalo, where you can admire the colorful buildings and perhaps catch a street performer.

In the afternoon, make your way to the Barrio del Artista, a lesser-known neighborhood that showcases local artists and their work. Here, you can chat with painters and maybe even pick up a unique piece of art. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Biblioteca Palafoxiana, a stunning library filled with ancient texts and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a hidden treasure that often flies under the radar.

As evening approaches, head to the Mercado de Sabores Poblanos for dinner. This bustling market offers a variety of local dishes. Dive into some tlayudas or a hearty bowl of pozole. The lively atmosphere is infectious, and you’ll feel like a local as you savor the flavors.

End your day with a stroll through the streets, where the illuminated buildings create a magical ambiance. Puebla is a city that rewards those who take the time to explore its nooks and crannies, making every moment feel like a delightful discovery.

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🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing

Topic: Weather and Temperature – Puebla’s dry season runs from November to April, with daytime highs around 22-26°C (72-79°F) and cooler nights dipping to 7-10°C (45-50°F). The rainy season, May to October, brings frequent afternoon showers and humidity, with highs climbing to 27-30°C (81-86°F). For comfort, dry months are your best bet.

Topic: Daylight Hours – Puebla enjoys roughly 11 to 13 hours of daylight year-round. The longest days are in June, giving you more daylight for exploring, while December’s shorter days mean earlier sunsets around 6 PM.

Topic: Crowds – Peak tourist influx aligns with major festivals like Cinco de Mayo in early May and the Day of the Dead in late October to early November. These bring vibrant energy but also packed streets and higher prices.

Topic:

… read more 👉

Topic: Weather and Temperature – Puebla’s dry season runs from November to April, with daytime highs around 22-26°C (72-79°F) and cooler nights dipping to 7-10°C (45-50°F). The rainy season, May to October, brings frequent afternoon showers and humidity, with highs climbing to 27-30°C (81-86°F). For comfort, dry months are your best bet.

Topic: Daylight Hours – Puebla enjoys roughly 11 to 13 hours of daylight year-round. The longest days are in June, giving you more daylight for exploring, while December’s shorter days mean earlier sunsets around 6 PM.

Topic: Crowds – Peak tourist influx aligns with major festivals like Cinco de Mayo in early May and the Day of the Dead in late October to early November. These bring vibrant energy but also packed streets and higher prices.

Topic: Seasonal Activities – Cultural events peak in spring and fall, with fewer options during the rainy summer months. If you want authentic local celebrations, time your visit around these dates.

Topic: Price Fluctuations – Accommodation and flights spike during festival seasons and holidays. The shoulder months of March-April and September-October offer better deals without sacrificing weather quality.

Pro-tip: Aim for late March or early October to balance pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and wallet-friendly prices—this is when Puebla’s charm shines without the hassle.

source: climatestotravel.comJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

Centro Histórico is the undeniable hub for backpackers in Puebla. It’s where history and nightlife collide, offering a compact, walkable area loaded with budget hostels, street food stalls, and plazas buzzing with locals and travelers alike. Staying here means you’re never far from the city’s iconic colonial architecture and vibrant markets, but it also means embracing a lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere. The trade-off? You sacrifice a bit of quiet comfort for unbeatable social energy and convenience.

If you want a slightly calmer vibe but still crave connection, La Paz is a solid choice. It’s … read more 👉

Centro Histórico is the undeniable hub for backpackers in Puebla. It’s where history and nightlife collide, offering a compact, walkable area loaded with budget hostels, street food stalls, and plazas buzzing with locals and travelers alike. Staying here means you’re never far from the city’s iconic colonial architecture and vibrant markets, but it also means embracing a lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere. The trade-off? You sacrifice a bit of quiet comfort for unbeatable social energy and convenience.

If you want a slightly calmer vibe but still crave connection, La Paz is a solid choice. It’s a residential neighborhood with a more laid-back feel, fewer tourists, and a handful of hostels that attract solo travelers looking to mingle without the chaos of the center. It’s safer and cleaner, but you’ll spend more time commuting to the main attractions, which chips into your exploration time.

Avoid the outskirts unless you have a car or plan to stay put. They’re cheaper but isolate you from the pulse of the city, turning your trip into a logistical puzzle rather than a seamless adventure. In Puebla, proximity equals value—choose your base wisely to maximize both your social and cultural payoff.

Best hostels in Puebla

Best quality hotels in Mexico

🚌 Getting aroundHow to get from A to B

Puebla moves at a pace that’s a curious blend of old-school rhythm and modern hustle. It’s not a city where everything clicks like clockwork, but neither is it a free-for-all chaos. Instead, it’s a dance between fixed schedules and the kind of local intuition that comes from years of navigating narrow streets and bustling markets. You’ll find that timing here is flexible—buses and colectivos don’t always stick to the timetable, but they run often enough that waiting too long is rare. The real trick is knowing when to lean into patience and when to push for a quicker ride. This flow shapes your choices: do you pay a bit more for comfort and speed, or do you embrace the slower, cheaper options that let you soak in the city’s pulse?

Walking: Puebla’s historic center is compact and walkable,

… read more 👉

Puebla moves at a pace that’s a curious blend of old-school rhythm and modern hustle. It’s not a city where everything clicks like clockwork, but neither is it a free-for-all chaos. Instead, it’s a dance between fixed schedules and the kind of local intuition that comes from years of navigating narrow streets and bustling markets. You’ll find that timing here is flexible—buses and colectivos don’t always stick to the timetable, but they run often enough that waiting too long is rare. The real trick is knowing when to lean into patience and when to push for a quicker ride. This flow shapes your choices: do you pay a bit more for comfort and speed, or do you embrace the slower, cheaper options that let you soak in the city’s pulse?

Walking: Puebla’s historic center is compact and walkable, making your feet the most reliable and cost-effective transit tool. No schedules, no fares, just the freedom to explore at your own pace. Expect to cover 2-3 kilometers easily between major sights, with the bonus of spontaneous detours through colorful streets and local markets.

RTP Buses: These public buses run from early morning (around 5:30 AM) until about 10 PM. Fares hover around 7-10 MXN, making them the cheapest option. They’re slow and often crowded, but they cover most of the city and its outskirts. Comfort is minimal—think hard plastic seats and frequent stops—but if you’re not in a rush, they’re a wallet-friendly way to get around.

Colectivos: Shared vans or minibuses that run fixed routes but depart when full, not on a strict schedule. Prices range from 10-15 MXN. They’re faster than RTP buses because they make fewer stops and often take more direct routes. Comfort is basic but better than buses, with some ventilation and less crowding if you catch them off-peak. The trade-off here is a bit of unpredictability in wait times versus a quicker trip.

Taxi Apps (Didi, Uber): Available throughout Puebla, these offer door-to-door service with fares starting around 40 MXN for short rides. They’re the fastest and most comfortable option, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or in a group. The catch is cost—prices can spike during peak hours or bad weather, so they’re best reserved for when time or comfort is a priority.

Rental Bikes and Scooters: A growing option for short hops, especially around the city center. Rentals cost about 20-30 MXN per half hour. They offer a sweet spot between speed and cost, letting you bypass traffic and explore neighborhoods beyond walking distance. The trade-off is physical effort and safety considerations on busy streets.

👛 Costs (as of 7 September 2025)How expensive it really is

Backpacking in Puebla, Mexico, offers a smart balance between cost and experience, but knowing the trade-offs upfront lets you play the system like a pro.

Dorm Accommodation (High Season): Expect to pay around $10-$15 USD per night. High season means more tourists, so prices edge up, but you still get clean, basic hostels with social vibes.
Dorm Accommodation (Off-Season): Drop to about $7-$10 USD. Fewer travelers mean better deals and sometimes extra perks like free breakfast or tours thrown in.
Meals: Street food and local markets dominate here. Budget $5-$8 USD per day if you stick to tacos, tamales, and fresh fruit stalls. Eating at mid-range eateries bumps this to $10-$15 USD.
Local Transport: Buses and shared vans are dirt cheap, around $0.30-$0.50 USD per ride. You can cover most

… read more 👉

Backpacking in Puebla, Mexico, offers a smart balance between cost and experience, but knowing the trade-offs upfront lets you play the system like a pro.

Dorm Accommodation (High Season): Expect to pay around $10-$15 USD per night. High season means more tourists, so prices edge up, but you still get clean, basic hostels with social vibes.
Dorm Accommodation (Off-Season): Drop to about $7-$10 USD. Fewer travelers mean better deals and sometimes extra perks like free breakfast or tours thrown in.
Meals: Street food and local markets dominate here. Budget $5-$8 USD per day if you stick to tacos, tamales, and fresh fruit stalls. Eating at mid-range eateries bumps this to $10-$15 USD.
Local Transport: Buses and shared vans are dirt cheap, around $0.30-$0.50 USD per ride. You can cover most of the city for under $2 USD daily if you plan routes smartly.
City Transport Pass: Puebla offers a transport card system costing about $3 USD for the card plus $0.50 per ride. If you’re hopping on and off all day, this can save time and hassle.
Basic Activities/Entry Fees: Museums, churches, and cultural sites typically charge $1-$3 USD. Some bigger attractions might be $5 USD. Many plazas and markets are free to explore.
Miscellaneous Expenses: Think bottled water, snacks, occasional coffee, or a small souvenir. Budget $2-$5 USD daily to cover these little extras without stress.

Total daily costs for a savvy backpacker in Puebla hover between $15 and $30 USD, depending on how much comfort or convenience you want to buy. This range lets you decide if you’re squeezing every cent or splurging a bit on a nicer meal or private room upgrade. Understanding these trade-offs means you’re not just spending money—you’re investing in the kind of experience that sticks with you.

⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🚌 Day tripsShort trips worth adding

Puebla is a fantastic launchpad for day trips that blend culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Here are some top picks that make the most of your time, money, and comfort.

Cholula
Just a short 30-minute bus ride from Puebla, Cholula is famous for its Great Pyramid, which is larger than the one in Giza when you consider its base. You can explore the archaeological site and then wander through the charming streets filled with colorful murals and local eateries. Don’t miss the stunning view of Popocatépetl volcano from the top of the pyramid. A budget of around $5 for transport and a few tacos will keep you satisfied. Avoid the mistake of only visiting the pyramid; the town itself is a treasure trove of experiences.

Tlaxcala
About an hour away, Tlaxcala is often overlooked but offers … read more 👉

Puebla is a fantastic launchpad for day trips that blend culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Here are some top picks that make the most of your time, money, and comfort.

Cholula
Just a short 30-minute bus ride from Puebla, Cholula is famous for its Great Pyramid, which is larger than the one in Giza when you consider its base. You can explore the archaeological site and then wander through the charming streets filled with colorful murals and local eateries. Don’t miss the stunning view of Popocatépetl volcano from the top of the pyramid. A budget of around $5 for transport and a few tacos will keep you satisfied. Avoid the mistake of only visiting the pyramid; the town itself is a treasure trove of experiences.

Tlaxcala
About an hour away, Tlaxcala is often overlooked but offers rich history and a laid-back vibe. You can visit the ancient ruins of Cacaxtla, known for their vibrant murals, and then stroll through the quaint town center. The total cost for the day, including transport and lunch, can be around $10. The best time to visit is during the weekdays when it’s less crowded. First-timers often miss the local markets, which are perfect for snagging handmade crafts.

Cuetzalan
This magical town is about two hours from Puebla, nestled in the Sierra Norte mountains. Known for its coffee plantations and traditional indigenous culture, Cuetzalan offers a unique experience. You can hike to nearby waterfalls or explore the local market. Expect to spend around $15 for transport and a meal. The rainy season can be tricky, so aim for the dry months from November to April. Many backpackers underestimate the chill in the evenings, so pack a light jacket.

Orizaba
Roughly 90 minutes away, Orizaba is home to Mexico’s highest mountain. The town itself is charming, with a beautiful central plaza and impressive architecture. You can take a cable car up to the summit for breathtaking views. Budget around $12 for the trip and snacks. The best time to go is early morning to avoid crowds. A common mistake is not checking the weather; it can change quickly at higher altitudes.

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🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

In Puebla, food is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, and you’re in for a treat. Start with mole poblano, a rich, complex sauce that dances between sweet and savory, often draped over chicken or turkey. Don’t skip the chalupas, small corn tortillas topped with salsa, meat, and fresh veggies. The tacos árabes, a local twist on the classic, feature marinated pork wrapped in pita-like bread, a must-try for any taco lover.

For drinks, agua de jamaica (hibiscus tea) is refreshing and a perfect companion to your meals. If you’re feeling adventurous, seek out pulque, a traditional fermented drink with a unique texture and flavor, often served in local markets.

Backpackers will find their culinary haven in bustling markets and vibrant street stalls. Grab a seat at a communal table, where the atmosphere … read more 👉

In Puebla, food is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, and you’re in for a treat. Start with mole poblano, a rich, complex sauce that dances between sweet and savory, often draped over chicken or turkey. Don’t skip the chalupas, small corn tortillas topped with salsa, meat, and fresh veggies. The tacos árabes, a local twist on the classic, feature marinated pork wrapped in pita-like bread, a must-try for any taco lover.

For drinks, agua de jamaica (hibiscus tea) is refreshing and a perfect companion to your meals. If you’re feeling adventurous, seek out pulque, a traditional fermented drink with a unique texture and flavor, often served in local markets.

Backpackers will find their culinary haven in bustling markets and vibrant street stalls. Grab a seat at a communal table, where the atmosphere buzzes with laughter and chatter. Embrace the local custom of sharing dishes; it’s a way to bond over flavors and stories. Remember, in Puebla, eating is not just about sustenance; it’s a celebration of culture and community.

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

Puebla is generally safe, but like any city, it has its quirks. Stay aware in crowded markets like El Mercado de Sabores; pickpockets can be a nuisance. When wandering the streets at night, stick to well-lit areas and avoid empty alleys. Solo travelers should trust their instincts; if something feels off, it probably is.

Common scams include overly friendly locals offering unsolicited help, which often leads to a request for money. Politely decline and keep moving. Street vendors can be persistent, but a firm “no, gracias” usually does the trick.

Carry your belongings close, especially in busy areas, and keep your phone out of sight when not in use. By staying alert and confident, you’ll navigate Puebla with ease, enjoying its rich culture without unnecessary stress.

Check Country Safety

Other Mexican cities near Puebla

Explore more nearby:

Mexico City—mega-metropolis, street food, museums| 107 km away
Xalapa—coffee houses, cloud forest, university vibe| 147 km away
Veracruz—port city, danzón, Caribbean influence| 218 km away

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We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

Puebla’s culinary scene is a game-changer. The mole poblano here is a flavor explosion that’ll have you dreaming about it long after you leave. But be ready for the altitude; it can zap your energy if you’re not acclimated. Embrace the vibrant street life and the rich history, but don’t underestimate the need for a little downtime to adjust. It’s all part of the Puebla experience.

✈️ When did I visit Mexico?
As part of my 1.5 year travel around the world trip, I visited Mexico in February and March 2016. Had to hurry a bit as I didn’t want to miss the free performance of the Rolling Stones in Cuba.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Mexico, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.

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👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpack

Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story

Mexico🇲🇽 | citiesPueblatile facades, volcano backdrop, food stalls | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Puebla
UNESCO World Heritage site
🏆 Top pickcity ranked #6
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 8, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #6 city in MexicoWhy Puebla should be on your travel list

💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while visiting Puebla

Things to do in Puebla

Iztaccihuatl Volcano Hiking Tour from Puebla

From Puebla: Iztaccihuatl hiking tour all-Inclusive private tour

Delicious Culinary Tour in Puebla

From puebla: Private tour in Africam Safari all-Inclusive

Hiking in Iztaccihuatl Volcano

Free walking tour in Spanish in Puebla city

From Puebla: Firefly Sanctuary Tour + Local Dinner

Cantinas de Puebla Tour

Private Walking Tour of Puebla City

From Puebla : Citytour in Puebla + Mezcal in Luxury Terrace

🏘️ NeighborhoodsUnderstanding the local layout

⌛️ 1 day1-day itinerary for Puebla

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutMexico Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

🚌 Getting aroundHow to get from A to B

👛 Costs (as of 7 September 2025)How expensive it really is

🚌 Day tripsShort trips worth adding

🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

Other Mexican cities near Puebla

We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Mexico🇲🇽 | citiesPueblatile facades, volcano backdrop, food stalls | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in PueblaUNESCO World Heritage site🏆 Top pickcity ranked #6By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 8, 2026addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a05ecc')

✨ Why go?Ranked #6 city in MexicoaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a0691e')Why Puebla should be on your travel listaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a06924')

💡 HighlightsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a0824c')Essential experiences to have while visiting PueblaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a08252')

Things to do in Puebla

Iztaccihuatl Volcano Hiking Tour from Puebla

From Puebla: Iztaccihuatl hiking tour all-Inclusive private tour

Delicious Culinary Tour in Puebla

From puebla: Private tour in Africam Safari all-Inclusive

Hiking in Iztaccihuatl Volcano

Free walking tour in Spanish in Puebla city

From Puebla: Firefly Sanctuary Tour + Local Dinner

Cantinas de Puebla Tour

Private Walking Tour of Puebla City

From Puebla : Citytour in Puebla + Mezcal in Luxury Terrace

🏘️ NeighborhoodsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a08a35')Understanding the local layoutaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a08a3a')

⌛️ 1 dayaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a09152')1-day itinerary for PueblaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a09157')

🌤️ When to go?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a09a6e')Seasonal considerations and timingaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a09a72')

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutMexico Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a0b319')Best areas and accommodation optionsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a0b31f')

🚌 Getting aroundaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a0be8e')How to get from A to BaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a0be93')

👛 Costs (as of 7 September 2025)addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a0c828')How expensive it really isaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a0c82c')

🚌 Day tripsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a21ab7')Short trips worth addingaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a21abe')

🍲 FoodaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a22133')What to Eat & DrinkaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a22138')

🛡️ SafetyaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a22293')Traveler Safety GuideaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a22296')

Other Mexican cities near PueblaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a266c7')

We 💚 feedbackaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a26827')What to keep in mindaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a2682b')

👋 Meet the founderaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a26879')Who’s Behind Take Your Backpack?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a568f3a2687c')

Backpacking in Puebla
UNESCO World Heritage site
🏆 Top pickcity ranked #6
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 8, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #6 city in MexicoWhy Puebla should be on your travel list

💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while visiting Puebla

🏘️ NeighborhoodsUnderstanding the local layout

⌛️ 1 day1-day itinerary for Puebla

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

🚌 Getting aroundHow to get from A to B

👛 Costs (as of 7 September 2025)How expensive it really is

🚌 Day tripsShort trips worth adding

🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

Other Mexican cities near Puebla

We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?