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Teotihuacan: Planning Your Visit

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Teotihuacán (pronounced "tay-oh-tee-wah-KAHN," with the emphasis on the final syllable) is a large and majestic archaeological site located about 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Mexico City . It's famous for its large pyramids dedicated to the sun and the moon, but the site also contains beautiful murals and carvings and several museums through which you can explore the city's fascinating history. This is one of the largest and most important archaeological sites in Mexico, and a must-visit attraction on a trip to Mexico City.

The construction of the city of Teotihuacan began around 200 BC. Since the ethnic group and the language spoken by the inhabitants of Teotihuacan is unknown, they are referred to simply as "Teotihuacanos." At its peak between 300 and 600 CE, this was one of the biggest cities in the world with around 200,000 inhabitants.

Teotihuacan was abandoned around the year 800, which is considered the end of the Classic Period in Mesoamerica. The causes of the fall are not known, but it's possible there was a prolonged drought or an epidemic. There could also have been a conflict with another group or an internal conflict—some of the buildings show evidence of destruction by fire. It appears this site was not just merely abandoned, like many of the Mayan archaeological sites .

The Aztecs considered Teotihuacan a sacred site even though it was abandoned long before their time. Teotihuacan is the name that was given to the site by the Aztecs, meaning "city of the gods" or "where men become gods."

More recently, in 2003, Sergio Gómez, an archaeologist with Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History, discovered a man-made tunnel after a heavy rainstorm left a sinkhole at the foot of a large pyramid known as the Temple of the Plumed Serpent. Upon further research with a high-resolution, ground-penetrating radar device, he found the tunnel ran from the Citadel (the center of the city) to the center of the Temple of the Plumed Serpent, making it some sort of underground road.

The ruined city features plazas, temples, a canalized river, and palaces that housed priests and nobles. Such structures—the Teotihuacanos were considered skilled urban planners—include the Citadel, the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon, and the Avenue of the Dead. While visiting the site, keep in mind that the actual city of Teotihuacan extended over 12 square miles (20 kilometers) and was intensely populated.

The Citadel: When the city was inhabited, the Citadel was the center of the city of Teotihuacan; but today, it is the southernmost point that's open to visitors. This fortress is marked by a large open space with surrounding temples that were most likely used for ceremonies.

Temple of Quetzalcoatl: If you walk across the square and climb the steps on the opposite side, you can view the Temple of Quetzalcoatl. (Quetzalcoatl was one of the most important gods in the Mesoamerican pantheon whose name means "feathered serpent.") The decoration on the facade of this building shows alternating heads of the serpent and another figure sometimes called Tlaloc (the Aztec rain god). The building is also decorated with snails and shells, both symbols of water.

Pyramid of the Sun: This huge pyramid is one of ancient Mexico's largest structures. It is nearly 200 feet high and 700 feet wide. Unlike the pyramids of Egypt, Mexican pyramids don't have a point on top, but instead are flat and most often used as bases for temples. The Pyramid of the Sun is built on top of a 100-yard-long cave that ends in the shape of a four-leaf clover (discovered in 1970). In ancient Mexico, caves like this represented passageways to the underworld—the womb of the earth.​

If you're not afraid of a few stairs (around 250 of them), the views from the top of the pyramid are excellent. In fact, during the fall and spring equinox, Teotihuacan is packed with folks who dress in white and climb to the top. Once there, they stand with arms outstretched to receive the special energy of the site on that day.

Pyramid of the Moon: After taking in the scenery from the top of the Pyramid of the Sun (and if you’re still up for more climbing), make your way to the Pyramid of the Moon, the second-largest pyramid in modern-day Teotihuacan. This feature, which is located at the end of the Avenue of the Dead, was once used as a stage for performing the ritual sacrifices of both animals and humans. Upon this pyramid sits a platform meant for ceremonies honoring the Great Goddess of Teotihuacan, the goddess of water, fertility, the earth, and creation. 

Avenue of the Dead: The Avenue of the Dead ( Calzada de los Muertos ) forms the main axis of the ancient city. It stretches to the north from the Citadel all the way to the Temple of the Moon. Rather than being directed exactly north-south, the Avenue of the Dead was aligned at 16º northwest to position it with the setting sun on a precise date. Lining the avenue are low buildings thought to be palace residences.

Visiting Teotihuacan

Location: Teotihuacan is located in the State of Mexico, approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) northeast of Mexico City.

Hours: Teotihuacan archaeological zone is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.

Admission: General admission is 70 pesos per person and it's free for children under 13. It's also free for Mexican citizens and residents on Sundays.

Tours: Many companies offer day trips to Teotihuacan from Mexico City. One option is the Turibus Teotihuacan , an all-day excursion that includes a visit to the Basilica of Guadalupe , as well as stops for lunch and shopping at an arts and crafts center. Private tours are great for those who want to spend more time exploring the ruins. And, an archeological tour is the best choice for history buffs and aspiring archeologists.

Travel Tips:

• There are five entrances to the archaeological site. For a full tour, enter at the south end of the site (Entrance 1). Then, walk the length of the Avenue of the Dead (about 1.25 miles or 2 kilometers).
• For a shortened tour, many groups begin at the Pyramid of the Sun (Entrance 2). This is a good option if your time is limited or you prefer not to walk.
• Don't forget to take water, a hat, and sunscreen.

Getting There

If you would like to spend more time exploring the site, go it on your own. The most direct route from Mexico city is by car via Mexico 132D (it's about a 1.5-hour drive). You can also hire a taxi or a private guide to get you there, or you can easily use public transportation. To do so, take the metro to the Central del Norte station. From there, find a bus that goes directly to the ruins; the buses are marked " piramides ."

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Visiting Teotihuacan: Tickets & Tips, Guided Tours & Day Trips

Jump to: Tickets & Tours • Visiting Teotihuacán • Accessibility at Teotihuacán • What is there to see? • Map of Teotihuacán • Guided Tours & Balloon Rides

Ethan Doyle White

• Last Checked and/or Updated 26 January 2024
• No Comments

Teotihuacán Tickets & Tours Options

Fast track entry.

A straight-forward, fast track entry to the archaeological area. It does not include transport to the site, or a tour guide.

From Mexico City, Entry & Guide

Take a day trip from Mexico City, get fast track into the archaeological area and enjoy a guided tour with an archaeologist.

Balloon Ride at Dawn

Make your experience of the Teotihuacán pyramids extra special with a dawn balloon ride before exploring the site. 

Or, continue reading this page for all the information you need in preparation for your visit to Teotihuacán.

Teotihuacán is one of the finest archaeological sites of pre-Columbian Mexico. From around 600 BC until 200 BC the area was little more than a series of scattered villages. From about 100 BC to 650 AD Teotihuacán reached its peak, covering an area of 21 square km and supporting a population of at least 100,000 people. Until the 14th century, it was the largest city in the western hemisphere. At the heart of the city arose a complex ceremonial and civic centre crammed with ornate stone palaces and dramatic pyramids. Today, the square mile around this centre is preserved as the Zona Arqueológica de Teotihuacán – the Teotihuacán Archaeological Zone.

There is still much that remains a mystery about the people who built and lived at Teotihuacán. They were clearly a powerful society that exerted an influence across a wide area of Mesoamerica. Many archaeologists believe that as a major urban centre, the city would have been home to a range of ethnic and linguistic groups. After a serious fire in the 7th century, the city centre was largely abandoned. As it began to fall into the realms of legend, it was the later Aztec people who gave the ruined city the name of ‘Teotihuacán’ that in their Nahuatl language meant “the place where the gods were created.”

Antiquarians and then archaeologists began exploring the ancient city from the 19th century onward, revealing more about its fascinating history. Reflecting its importance not just for Mexico but internationally, Teotihuacán is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Visiting Teotihuacan

Official Website for the Zona Arqueológica de Teotihuacan . That website is intended for visitors, for anyone who would like to know more about the history of the site and the research carried out there, see the detailed information supplied on the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia de México website (in Spanish only)

Opening Hours

The site is open everyday throughout the year: from 09h00 – 16h00 Last entry is at: 15h00

What is the Best Time to Visit Teotihuacan?

As early as you can, get there before opening time at 9am. Not only do you avoid the heat and the crowds (that tend to build up mid-morning), but you also might get to see the  last of the balloons flying over the site. 

If at all possible avoid Sundays. This is the on which the archaeological zone is often more crowded than normal because entry is free for locals.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are generally the least busy days.

How Long do You Need at Teotihuacan?

A visit to Teotihuacan usually takes about two to three hours. The site custodians have produced a number of set routes around the site: general routes that take 2 hours, with some very specific thematic add ons that take 60 minutes, download itineraries for Teotihuacán .

Although if you have a deep interest in Mesoamerican archaeology, you could easily spend longer, particularly if you take a break for lunch.

Ticket Prices

Standard Entry Fee: 90 Mexican Pesos Individuals who prove residence in Mexico are exempt from these payments on Sundays.

Buy a fast track entry ticket online, in advance .

What is Included in the Cost of Entry Tickets for Teotihuacán

Standard entry to the Teotihuacán Archaeological Zone (90 pesos) includes entry to the onsite Teotihuacan Culture Museum , as well as the Museum of Teotihuacan Murals (Beatriz de la Fuente).

Entry is free for certain groups of Mexican citizens, including children under the age of 13, individuals over the age of 60, students and teachers.

Tickets can be purchased at the five entrance gates. Your ticket allows you to leave and re-enter on the same day. You can go out of the archaeological zone for a break or lunch and then return. 

There are five gates, each with a ticket office to pay for entry. Each gate has parking facilities (for which there is an extra charge), and all but Gate 4 has toilet facilities. There is a bookshop at Gate 5, where you can purchase books about the site as well as tourist guides.

Accessibility at Teotihuacán

Provision is made for wheelchair users throughout the site, where possible. There is reserved parking at Gates 2, 3 and 5 for visitors with disabilities. Specifically, at Gate 3 there are ramps and walkways for visitors with mobility difficulties or who use wheelchairs.

How to Get to Teotihuacán

Teotihuacán is only 50 kilometres, or 25 miles, northeast of Mexico City. The Teotihuacán Archaeological Zone is in the town of San Juan Teotihuacán, which is in the federal state of Mexico State (Central Mexico). There are a number of highly rated hotels (for a list of hotels and other accommodation near the site, see Booking.com ) in the town, to suit all budgets. Some of these are within walking distance of the archaeological site, perfect if you want to get an early start at the ruins to beat the crowds and the heat.

Teotihuacán By Bus from Mexico City

Buses to San Juan Teotihuacán run from Mexico City’s north bus terminal ( Terminal del Norte ), which is served by the city’s metro system – the station has the same name. Tickets are cheap (a little more than $50 Pesos ), making this a good option for travellers on a tight budget. Departures for Teotihuacán are usually at the north end of the station, near Peurta 8 , and are clearly marked ‘ Piramides ‘.

Be aware that return bus journeys to Mexico City stop in the early evening. 

How to Get to Teotihuacán with a Private Car

You could hire a car in the city and drive there. Take Highway 85D and following the signs to San Juan Teotihuacán . Traffic permitting, this journey takes about an hour , passing through impressive scenery. Part of the journey is a toll road , so have your change ready. 

How to Get to Teotihuacán by Taxi or Uber

Taxi services from Mexico City to the site, including Uber, are a popular option, costing anywhere between $450 – $800 Pesos one way , or around $30 to $45. Some visitors to the site report having difficulty getting an Uber back to Mexico City. Having taken Uber to reach the site, you could consider getting the bus back to Mexico City. In which case, go to Gate 2 to catch the bus. You do not need to have purchased a return bus ticket to return by bus. 

Parking at Teotihuacán

There are five large car parking areas around the archaeological site, Gates 2 and 5 are the most popular.

What Should I Take?

Although there are small trees scattered about the site, the main archaeological attraction is under the glaring sun with no shade . You need to be prepared for a day under the harsh Mexican sun. Be aware that temperatures at the site are usually higher than in nearby Mexico City. A hat/umbrella, sun lotion, and sunglasses are strongly advisable . And take plenty of water with you.

It is also a good idea to take some food, although eateries are available outside the archaeological site. Check the forecast beforehand as the area does experience rainy and windy days – in which case a poncho and umbrella are recommended.

Although some visitors choose to wear flip-flops due to the heat, sturdy shoes that you can walk around in all day are better. In past year, visitors have been able to climb several of the main pyramids, although this is not possible at present. It is unclear when it will be reinstated. Other pyramid sites in Mexico have permanently banned visitors from climbing their stone structures.

The dramatic structures at Teotihuacan are great for photographers , so do not forget your camera! Photography is also permitted in the on-site museum, although flash is prohibited in certain areas to protect the artworks on display. Those wanting to use electronic video recording equipment in the Zone must purchase a permit. As of 2019 this cost 45 pesos (approximately US$2.11, €1.80, or £1.63) although this cost is prone to rise. There are additional restrictions on the use of tripods and some professional-level photographic equipment.

Is it Worth Visiting Teotihuacán?

Potential visitors have always, and always will, want to know if it is worth visiting Teotihuacán or not. A new version of the question these days is “is it still worth going to Teotihuacán if you cannot climb the pyramid anymore?” Climbing the pyramids at many archaeological sites in Mexico has stopped, for justifiable conservation reasons. As a result of the global pandemic, climbing the pyramids at those sites where it was still allowed was stopped. At Teotihuacan it has remained so. We were informed that the site managers are doing some much needed restoration, and hope to have the Pyramid of the Sun accessible towards the end of the year.

As you will see on many social media channels, for some people climbing “the pyramid” at Teotihuacan is one of the, for some even the most, important reasons for visiting the site. We all engage with archaeology sites and the world’s histories in different ways. But one response summed up my feelings quite accurately, this is like asking if it is worth climbing the Acropolis in Athens even though you can not go inside the Parthenon temple. Or any of the temples for that matter. People climb the Acropolis in their millions each year. And I am sure millions of people go to Teotihuacan each year whether they can climb the Pyramid of the Sun or not. 

But if you need them, here are five reasons to visit Teotihuacan :

First, there is so much more to the archaeological site than the Pyramid of the sun. There are other pyramids and temple platforms. These line the Avenue of the Dead in perfect symmetry. Together these features make up what was the ceremonial centre of a city that was an estimated 36 square km in size – and influence further beyond. What we see today only represents about 10% of that settlement. 

Besides the ruins, that have been worked on by archaeologists since the middle of the 19th century, there are also two onsite museums. Entry to both is included in the entry ticket to the site.

Teotihuacan is unique for its architectural and artistic achievements. Not only or its size, but also for the well developed plan. At its height it was the largest city in the Mesoamericas, and would remain unmatched until the 15th century.

At over 70 m high, the Pyramid of the Sun is largest pyramid in Mesoamerica. And the Pyramid of the Moon is the second largest. Their sheer size is something to behold, not only from their bases, but also from nearby monuments. 

The art of the people who created this site is amongst the most developed in all of Classic Mesoamerica. Most of the monuments were decorated with paintings that represented their world view. Some of these murals have been preserved in situ , such as the Puma Mural on the Avenue of the Dead, many others can be seen in the Museo de Murales Teotihuacanos “Beatriz de la Fuente” – one of the two onsite museums.

Interactive Map of Teotihuacán?

Teotihuacán tours & experiences.

Most visitors to Teotihuacán come from Mexico City. There is a diverse range of activities for visitors to experience Teotihuacán, from Guided Tours at Dawn, an In-depth Guided Tour With an Archaeologist to Hot Air Balloon Rides Over the Archaeological Site. One thing to look out for when choosing between seemingly similar activities: some activity providers include hotel pick up, for others you are required to get to Teotihuacán yourself.

Teotihuacán Hot Air Balloon Sunrise Tours

Walking about the extraordinary site of Teotihuacán is one thing. To float above the pyramids and the Avenue of the Dead during a hot air balloon ride is something else altogether. The flight itself lasts around 50 minutes, but depending on the weather conditions it could be a bit shorter.

As balloon rides start around 7 am, you will need to be up early, particularly if you are staying in Mexico City. Hotel pick-ups for Mexico City are between 5 and 05h30.

There are a number of different options to choose from, and the price varies quite considerably. So when choosing a company check and compare what is included and what is not. For example, if you are staying in Mexico City and want to be picked up at your hotel, you need to ensure that hotel pickups are included in the service and price. If you are staying in San Juan Teotihuacán and do not need a pick up service, and do not want to go into the archaeological site after your balloon ride, a balloon ride without pickup and entry tickets is what you need.

These are some of the options:

• Hotel pick up in Mexico city, no entry to the archaeological site
• Hotel pick up, entry to the archaeological zone 45 minute balloon ride
• Hotel pick up, balloon ride and walking tour of the archaeological site
• Hotel pick up, balloon ride followed by a tour of Teotihuacán by bike

Guided Tours of Teotihuacán

As with the balloon rides at Teotihuacán, there are many options available to you if you are interested in a guided tour of the site. Probably more so, given that this is the most popular attraction in Mexico. The choice can be daunting. But first, you may be wondering if you need a guided tour of Teotihuacán, and if it is worth it .

Answering the second part of the question is easier than the first. As long as you have a good guide (check the reviews), I believe a guided tour to most sites is always worth taking . A well informed guide who engages well with their group can impart knowledge and experience very difficult to get on your own or out of a book. Do you need a guide? This will always differ from person to person, and depends on a range of factors such as how much do you know about the site before you visit, how much do you want to learn about he site during your visit. And even how much time you have to explore the site. If you have little or no prior knowledge, only a short time and want to see the highlights, a good tour guide can get you to those places much quicker than you can on your own. If you have already read a lot about the site, have a lot of time, taking a good map and exploring the site yourself can be just as enjoyable and rewarding.

That said, here are a handful of guided tours that meet differing needs:

• Hotel pick-up from Mexico City, private tour including entry tickets
• Hotel pick-up, skip the line entry, small group walking tour at dawn
• Hotel pick-up, entry tickets, full day private tour of the site with added experiences
• Hotel-pick-up, entry tickets, walking tour of the site, bike ride around the Teotihuacan Valley

If those do not appeal to you, or you would like to consider more, check out the offerings from the following ticketing and activity providers: Tiqets , GetYourGuide , Civitatis , Headout and Viator .

Combine Teotihuacán With More Great Sites

Given that two or three hours is a good amount of time to see quite a bit of the archaeological site of Teotihuacan, it makes a lot of sense to include other archaeological and/or historic sites in your day trip from Mexico City. And in many cases, particularly for private tours, it does not cost a lot more to combine Teotihuacan with other places.

One popular attraction is Tlatelolco, the remains of another pre-Columbian city-state that was uncovered during urban development in Mexico City. Founded shortly after Tenochtitlan (at the centre of modern-day Mexico City), after Templo Mayor this is the second most important site in the city. Visit Templo Mayor while you are in Mexico City , and then combine Teotihuacan with Tlatelolco . You will have seen three spectacular and important Mesoamerican archaeological sites in Central Mexico.

For those with an interest in more recent history, the Guadalupe Shrine is part of a Roman Catholic church dating from the 18th century. It houses a famous relic associated with the Virgin of Guadalupe that continues to attract many pilgrims in this deeply religious country. From Mexico City, you can take a private day tour of Teotihuacan and the Guadalupe Shrine . You can also combine Teotihuacan and the Guadalupe shrine with Tlatelolco .

The Toltec capital Tula is another wonderful archaeological site that makes for a good day trip from Mexico City, particularly when combined with another site. Tula is the site that has those iconic Atlantean columns thought to represent Toltec warriors. You can see both the Pyramids of Tula and Teotihuacan on one day trip from Mexico City

Add Teotihuacán to Your Itineraries & Travel Lists

If you are planning a trip to Mexico you can create your own travel lists (such as places you have been to, places you would like to visit) and an itinerary for your trip. These can also be shared with your friends and on social media. You can see how this is done by watching our Using the Itinerary video on YouTube , or reading the Using the Itinerary page .

For more sites and museums in Mexico, see our Mexico Travel Guide .

Teotihuacan

The ‘place where the gods were made’ was not only one of the largest pre-Hispanic cities in Mesoamerica, but also one of the largest urban centres anywhere in the ancient world. Known for the vast size and number of its monuments, including the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, it is now one of Mexico’s most popular tourist attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A settlement existed here from around 400 BC, although population growth only became substantial between the first and seventh centuries AD.

Archaeology Travel Writer

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Teotihuacán, the Wonderous Pyramid of the Sun | Updated 2023

The city of  Teotihuacán  and the ancient pyramids found therein are one of the most popular destinations for  Mexico City  day-trippers. And for good reason! This bygone archeological site, a few hours outside  Mexico City , is one of the most remarkable discoveries hiding some incredible secrets. While it might be a popular tourist destination, walking around these pyramids in the middle of the Mexican countryside, with few to no barriers, makes you feel like you are one of those famed archeologists discovering it for yourself. For the first time.

Mexican historical sites like  Chichén Itzá  and  Tulum  are much more expensive to visit. In addition to this, they feel more like a tourist-created destination, whereas Teotihuacán feels more laid bare and more natural. And as such, you truly feel like an explorer when visiting this place. But with this lack of curation comes a lack of information when you’re alone. Hopefully, this in-depth blog post provides a great introduction and guide through this incredible place.

Introduction

Teotihuacán  is the sight of the ancient Mesoamerican pyramids, first built in 100 BCE. That makes them over 2,000 years old! Teotihuacán was, at the time of its construction, the largest city in pre-Columbian North America, with a population of around 125,000. Considering how long ago that was, a city that size is just staggering.

Most cities that existed that long ago were so much smaller since their infrastructure couldn’t support a population of that size. 13th century London was only 80,000 people, and that was hundreds of years after the building of Teotihuacán. When you explore the site and look around at the city’s ancient foundations, you’ll be able to see the scale and size of this magnificent domain. The city continued to flourish and grow until 1150 CE, when it was destroyed by invading Mexican armies. They left it to ruin, and it was left almost untouched for hundreds and hundreds of years.

What’s in a Name?

The name  Teōtīhuacān , the name given to the site, was more than likely  not  the settlement’s original name.  Teōtīhuacān  was given by the  Nahuatl-speaking Aztecs  centuries after the city’s fall. The name means the  birthplace of the gods.  The Aztecs believed and wrote in their myths that this location was where the gods created the universe. As such, when visiting, consider this a very sacred site for the Mexican people. And you should consider this while you are there. Walking down that huge avenue when you first entered the site, I felt a huge wave of awe wash over my body. It felt undeniably sacred. And even when there were moments of quiet when the tourists would scatter, I swear it still felt like eyes were watching, perhaps from another astral plane above.

Further investigations years later revealed old Mayan hieroglyphics, which referred to these areas as “ puh ,” which means the “ Place of Reeds .” Since this name and the hieroglyphics would not have been discovered by the Aztecs during the Mayan period, they most likely didn’t rename the site but, more understandably, just weren’t aware of the fact it ever had a different name before. Even though more and more historians are starting to identify the site by this original name,  Teotihuacán  has stuck thus far and therefore is what most people still call it to this day.

How to Visit Teotihuacán

Public transport.

You might be surprised to hear that you can access this amazing historical site by public transport! Take the  Metro  on  Line 5  to A utobuses del Norte  metro station. From there, head across the street to the bus station, where you can board a bus to the Pyramids. All the buses heading to the Pyramids are run by the  Autobuses Teotihuacán  company, and to purchase a ticket for the bus, head over to counter number 8.

The Public Bus

Busses leave every 20 minutes, starting around 6 am and ending around 2 pm (but never leave it that late). I’d recommend getting there as early as possible but to avoid travelling on the metro during rush hour. The buses leaving for the pyramids will have a sign which displays “ Piramides ” on the front of the bus. You will even get a seat number marked on your ticket, so sit where you’re assigned. Your ticket is for a specific time, so don’t miss your bus and think you can jump on the next. The journey to the Pyramids takes about an hour, depending on the traffic.

Buses will drop you off at Puerta 1 at Teotihuacán, where you can buy entrance tickets. I’d give yourself at least 4 hours to explore, so check the bus return departure times. The buses returning to the city can be found at Puerta/Gate #2 near the main road or Gate #3. So, if you’re brave enough, the journey on public transport is well worth the effort for the cost savings! Public transport costs only 100 pesos (around $6 USD) for a round-trip journey from the bus station to Teotihuacán and back. Tickets on the Metro cost 5 pesos (less than 25 cents USD) per journey.

Why do I say brave?  Well, Mexico City’s public transport system has a very sketchy reputation. Some people say it’s totally safe, and others would avoid it at all costs. If you’ve travelled a lot on the metro before and are a confident traveller, I would say this journey would be fine for you. But I would skip this option if you’re a newer traveller or visiting Mexico City for the first time.

Guided Tour

There are dozens of different  guided tour  options for your visit to  Teotihuacán . Whichever company you go with, the biggest thing you want to make sure of is an early morning departure and that you have plenty of time at the site. These things will make a huge difference in your experience. While a large group size is something I try to avoid, this blog post lets you easily get away with being your own tour guide. But having a real one to answer all your burning questions is always nice.

Vibe Adventures  offers a completely private guided tour. Their prices depend on your group size, but for two people, it’s  $172.00  USD.  Amigo Tours  offers an amazing sunrise option as it allows you to see the site without all the tourists as the sun comes up behind the pyramids. For two people, the 9-hour tour costs $67 USD. They bring larger groups to the site, which is a downside, but you get the cost savings.

Airbnb Experiences

We went with an Airbnb experience called the  Teotihuacán Express . We LOVED it, not only because it left early in the morning but also because the group size was very small. There were only four guests on the tour, of a possible six. This ensured I could ask all my questions! We also had plenty of time to explore the sites independently, a great balance to a guided tour. The tour costs $65 USD per person, which is the best option!

Private Driver

Hiring a private driver is another great way to get safely to the historic site. This way, you can explore the entirety of the place on your own time. Ask your hotel about hiring a private driver, as they almost always have a few reliable drivers for you to contact. If you’re not staying in a hotel, I’ve also found Airbnb hosts to be very useful in recommending their own private drivers. You can also use  Uber  to get to the historical site, and so long as you’re travelling during popular times of the day, you shouldn’t have an issue getting back to the city. Just remember that the prices of the rides tend to be more expensive on the return journey since traffic increases throughout the day.

Hours, Admission & Visitor Tips

If you’re travelling to Teotihuacán by guided tour, all your admission fees should be paid, but if you’re going alone, you’ll be responsible for getting your own admission tickets. The Teotihuacán archaeological zone is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Sunday. Admission costs 70 pesos per person, and children under one can get in.

How Long to spend?

I would say 4-5 hours is enough time to see everything. Some people blast through the place at lightning speed, which is an option, but there is SO MUCH to see and do! It would be a shame to come all this way and miss out on so much. So don’t rush, and just take it all in as it comes.

When to Go?

Weekday mornings are, no doubt, the best time to visit. This site can get very busy on the weekends (especially on Sundays when the entrance is free to locals.) Arriving early in the morning will not only mean fewer people, but it also is much, much less hot. This area of Mexico is almost entirely shadeless, and the hot sun will just be beating down on you all day. So arriving as early as possible ensures your visit will be all the more comfortable.

What to Bring

• WATER! And lots of it. Remember what I said about the sun? And remember, this area of Mexico is much higher, so you’ll find yourself becoming dehydrated more quickly. You can easily think you’re drinking enough and still suffer from heat exhaustion the next day. Drink more than you think you should, and you’ll be fine.
•  Cash for the vendors. At the site, there are some really sweet artisans and craftspeople. There is even a small marketplace. I loved the Jaguar souvenirs we bought from here to remember the trip, and it would be a shame if you didn’t have cash on hand, as none of these places take credit cards. Also, if you’re hiring a guide or driver, giving them a cash tip is nice as it goes straight to them instead of to the company.
•  Snacks! If your tour doesn’t include food, you’ll want to pack something to eat. Our tour provided lunch, but as it was a 9-hour tour, we were glad we brought some snacks to enjoy. Just be sure to pick up after yourself!
•  Walking shoes. A lot of walking is required to explore all of Teotihuacán, so bring comfy shoes that aren’t open-toed. While sandals might seem like the coolest option for a hot day, the gravel, sand, stairs and rocks don’t make for a great combination when paired with open-toed sandals.

Accessibility

If you have mobility issues or can get tired easily, it’s best to go on a guided bus tour, as the tours will actually drive you from site to site, so you don’t have to walk almost 4 km between all the different buildings. Although you might want to skip the climb up the pyramids, there is still lots to see on the ground, and you’ll have more time to grill your guide with questions about the beautiful site. If you only have the energy to climb one of the pyramids, I’d recommend the  Pyramid of the Moon . It is a much shorter climb, and I liked the view from up there the best. But the climb is quite steep, so keep that in mind.

Wheelchair Access

If you’re visiting in a wheelchair, I managed to find a  wheelchair-accessible tour  for you! There must be more of these since tracking even this one down was challenging.  I hope you’re listening tour operators!  Gate #5 is the best entrance for wheelchairs as this entryway has no steps or obstacles to enter the Teotihuacan complex. The terrain along the Avenue of the Dead is fairly level, but as it’s made of old dirt and gravel, it is much more easily traversable in a powered chair rather than a manual. But if you’ve got the energy or the help, don’t let this hold you back from visiting this great site; it might require a little more effort.

A Note on Climbing the Pyramids

Sadly, as of 2020, you are no longer allowed to climb the Pyramid of the Moon and of the Sun. They are being protected and preserved in the hopes they can ensure no further degradation is done to these precious archeological ruins. You are still able to climb up the small Pyramid of the Feathered Serpent.

The history of Teotihuacán is very mysterious, as archeologists and historians still do not know exactly who built this amazing sight. No non-ideographic texts (hieroglyphics) from Teotihuacán exist, meaning there is no recorded history of their culture. At first, historians thought the city was built by the  Toltec  civilization, one of Mesoamerica’s first recorded civilizations. But these people didn’t appear until 900 CE, and Teotihuacán predates this culture by a few hundred years.

The architecture of Teotihuacán appears to contain features of various cultures, including the  Maya, Mixtec  and  Zapotec . This led historians to believe that various historically evident volcanic eruptions from the nearby Teotihuacán Valley, just before the founding of the city, would have brought thousands of different people from various tribes together into this rich basin. And this was where they formed the new city of Teotihuacán.

The basin was rich with minerals, and agriculturally, Teotihuacán was equally prosperous. Teotihuacán employed  chinampas  that created channels of irrigation that funnelled water into more arid areas of the land. This allowed farmers to create large, plentiful fields throughout the valley. The farmers of Teotihuacán grew everything from corn, beans, squash, tomato, amaranth, avocado, prickly pear cactus, and chilli peppers.

These  chinampas  canals also provided a means of transportation. They used canoes to travel up and down the valley. Access to the waterways also meant they could easily trade with cities around Mesoamerica. In many of the dig sites around Teotihuacán, they have found objects from as far away as Guatemala! Historians could see how far and wide people would travel to visit this great city through these discoveries.

Archeological Discoveries

Another thing which they have uncovered is that Teotihuacán was a city of craftsmen. Discovered in ruins were thousands of pieces of pottery and jewellery, along with the tools which would have been employed by these artisans. But their most precious crafted material was  obsidian ! Large obsidian deposits were located nearby at  Pachuca , and this mineral was used to create strong pieces of weaponry, such as spears and dart heads.

Although no military structures have been found in Teotihuacán, this does not mean they were a peaceful nation. In various murals that have been uncovered, there are depictions of fearsome warriors and impressive arms. Their military leaders wore impressive feathered headdresses, carried large shields and shells were used as makeshift armour. Hundreds of weapons have been found on-site, perhaps evidence that Teotihuacán was one of the largest weapons traders in Mesoamerica. Perhaps this is what led to their downfall as a tribe? Trying to guess what brought an end to this illustrious city is truly one of the most interesting parts of visiting Teotihuacán.

Architecture

The architecture used to create these buildings is incredibly ingenious, considering their design time. The pyramids closely resemble other structures from as far away as Egypt, despite having no connection to that far-off land. The main style found at Teotihuacán is “ talud-tablero ,” which refers to the architectural feature of inward-sloping external sides, which are topped with a rectangular panel. Originally these buildings would have been painted dark red, almost burgundy, and decorated with emerald greens and other natural colours that would have been derived from organic materials found around Teotihuacán.

Religious Iconography

Gods were of the utmost importance to the people of Teotihuacán. But their gods were very different from the ones we know today, but that makes them no less significant. Knowing a little about these gods is important, as it helps you better understand some of the iconography used throughout the archeological sites. Just as knowing a few stories from the Bible helps you interpret images in Christian Cathedrals, knowing a bit about these Mexican gods helps you better understand the stories they are trying to tell, even thousands of years ago. Despite no written texts about the gods from Teotihuacán, hieroglyphics which tell their stories have been discovered. Teotihuacán gods share some of the same characteristics found in the Aztec culture, of which we have much-written text that gives us a bit of insight into their history.

Great Goddess of Teotihuacán

The  Great Goddess of Teotihuacán  is the chief god that rules over the city. The great goddess is most notable for her giant feathered headdress, which is almost twice as wide as herself. In the headdress’s center is an owl’s face with a pointed beak. Her body is adorned with large beaded necklaces and other jewelry pieces typically worn by Teotihuacán women of the time. The most important piece of jewellery on her body is the enormous jade nosepiece, decorated with what looks to be spider-like fangs. One of the remaining sculptures to her glory still sits outside the gates of Teotihuacán after you pass through the admission gates.

One of the most important murals which depict the  Great Goddess of Teotihuacán  was found in the  Temple of the Jaguar . This is significant as the goddess is considered one of the underworld’s rulers. Throughout representations of the Great Goddess of Teotihuacán, you’ll find images of spiders, owls and jaguars. Each of these animals is known to be associated with the night and, therein, the  underworld . But in addition to symbolizing the underworld, she also directly represents creation. Many murals depict her with her hands outstretched, with water or jewels pouring from them. This represents how she is there to provide for her people.

Quetzalcoatl, the feathered Serpent

Quetzalcoatl,  after whom one of the temples in Teotihuacán is named, is the feathered rattlesnake god. He usually wears a breastplate made of a large conch shell on his chest, which has been known to be worn as a talisman by spiritual healers and religious rulers all over Mesoamerica. The conch shell, which sounds like the wind when pressed to your ear, is significant as Quetzalcoatl is the god of wind, air, and learning. The shape of the conch shell is also thought to replicate the patterns created by hurricanes, dust devils and tornadoes which might have torn through this part of the countryside. While in some other Aztec cultures, the feathered serpent represented war, in Teotihuacán, historians have found that he is more closely associated with fertility and the earth’s agriculture.

Tlaloc, the Storm God

Tlaloc  was the storm god, the god of rain and fertility. In these arid climates, water was so closely associated with life and, therefore, power. As such, Tlaloc was one of the most important gods in their pantheon. Tlaloc is usually depicted with large, bug eyes and fangs (often made from panther claws). Tlaloc is also almost always seen carrying a cornstalk or lightning bolt wand.

La Ciudadela

When arriving at the site, the first large, almost empty field you’ll encounter is the great  Ciudadelal  or “marketplace” of Teotihuacán. Surrounding the central Ciudadela are a few other large and wide structures which encircle an enormous large inner courtyard. These outer buildings would once have had tall walls, which protected the inner area of the Ciudadela.

In the center of the field, inside this walled area, are two large foundations, once the location of two huge mansions. These were thought to be occupied by some of the most powerful families in Teotihuacán. These families would have wielded great political power and influence over the city. Having their house in the centre of the Ciudadela would have allowed them to watch over the dealings and daily life of the city.

The Temple of the Feathered Serpent

The  Temple of the Feathered Serpent  is located towards the back of the Ciudadela. Walking up to this first pyramid, I remember feeling so in awe, but I had no idea how small this pyramid was compared to the ones along the Avenue of the Dead! This structure was built in 150 CE. Covering all sides of the pyramid are carvings of the feathered serpent, giving the pyramid its name. In addition to the faces of the feathered serpent, you can also see images of Tlaloc. See if you can spot them all! Look closely at their eyes. They all have empty sockets, which once would have contained obsidian orbs, that have since been plundered over the years. You can imagine how these orbs would have reflected the light and looked like the eyes of the gods were following you.

Below the sculptures of the god’s heads, you can see bas-reliefs with symbols of water and seashells. Since this location is so far away from the sea, these representations of the ocean solidify that this society knew these geographic locations. This also means that perhaps citizens of Teotihuacán either travelled out to the edges of the country or received travellers and traders from those parts of the country.

Mesoamerican Calendar

In addition to the empty eye sockets, you might notice that some of the god’s mouths are missing something. The people of Mesoamerica had a very advanced understanding of the calendar, and it is thought that these serpents’ mouths helped track the calendar year. There are 260 of them, the number of days the Teotihuacán calendar followed. They had a rich understanding of the position of the sun and the moon, and their position in the sky was of the utmost importance to their culture and architectural designs.

Underground Tunnels

As recently as 2003, an  underground tunnel  was discovered under the  Temple of the Feather Serpent.  After many painstaking years of digging and careful excavation, archeologists discovered a series of tunnels connecting different areas of the Teotihuacán complex. Many large entrances inside these tunnels were blocked off by huge boulders, which had been placed there 2,000 years ago. Excavating the entrances, they found seashells, cat bones, pottery and even human skin.

Towards the end of these tunnels, they even discovered what they believed to be a small sanctuary. Hundreds of precious objects were found, from; wooden masks covered with inlaid jade and quartz elaborate necklaces, rings, stone crocodile teeth and human figurines. There were crystals shaped into sets of eyes, beetle wings arranged in boxes, sculptures of jaguars, and hundreds of metallized spheres. Guarding the entrance to the underground area were four large stone statues. Each one wearing garments that would have once been adorned with gems. They are thought to be the founding shamans of Teotihuacán who would have greeted pilgrims into the sanctuary. Here, sacred objects used to perform rituals were also found, making it perhaps one of the most sacred remaining sites.

Avenue of the Dead

Head back out to the main avenue and walk towards the other end of the archeological site. This large walkway, leading directly to the P yramid of the Moon , seen at the end of the avenue, is called  Avenue of the Dead . The road is about 40 meters wide and 4km long (this is why you need your walking shoes!) The length is one thing, but the width makes this avenue seem grand and important!

On either side of the avenue are dozen smaller buildings, with  talud-tablero  platforms. These are believed to once been where burial tombs were kept, giving the avenue its name. Each of these buildings would have been topped with a temple at one point.

Pyramid of the Sun

The crowning glory of Teotihuacán is no doubt the  Pyramid of the Sun . It is the largest of all the Pyramids in the city and still stands as its guardian. It is also the third-largest pyramid in the entire world. The name comes from the Aztecs, who first discovered it in 500 BC. The pyramid was built in two phases from 100 CE to 200 CE. Over 1.1 million cubic meters of adobe mud and bricks were used to build the giant structure. The amount of work and number of people it would have taken to build this structure so many years ago is just staggering.

Star Alignment

The location of this pyramid was very important to the people of Teotihuacán. The positioning of each of the pyramids is one of the most advanced and astonishing things about ancient Teotihuacán. The pyramids align perfectly with the three stars of Orion’s belt as they appear in the sky on August 11th. Why August 11th, you ask? Well, this is what the people of Teotihuacán believed was the date of the “birth of the world.” While this knowledge of the stars in the sky leads some people to believe in their construction by the hands of otherworldly creatures, I think it also points to these incredible people’s extremely advanced knowledge.

When it was first built, the pyramid would have been painted in bright colours and covered in rich murals. Some of these murals can still be seen in the archeological museum.

Height of the Pyramids

The pyramids are 200 feet (63 meters) tall. And one can only imagine what the view from above would have looked like when this city was exploding with life during its heyday.

We were lucky enough to visit Teotihuacan before they closed the climb up the pyramids. Reaching the top of the pyramid was a real moment for me. We arrived at a time of day when there weren’t too many people who had made it to the top, and the silence was beautifully deafening up here. The humidity was low, and you could see so far away from the valley’s centre. I tried to imagine the hundreds and perhaps thousands of smaller buildings that would have also surrounded the city. I tried to think how far it stretched, almost like the first metropolis.

Museo de la Cultura Teotihuacana

Along the Avenue of the Dead, you’ll come to a small pathway on the right, leading you to the  Museo de la Cultura Teotihuacan  or Archeological Museum and the  Botanical Gardens . You’ll have to backtrack slightly to get there, but I think it’s more important to see and climb to the top of the Pyramid of the Sun first since there will be fewer tourists earlier in the day. I thought this museum was really interesting and worth the effort of visiting. If museums aren’t your thing and you’d rather keep exploring, you can miss it. It’s also a great indoor area to escape to in the heat of the afternoon sun if you need to cool down.

In this museum, you can learn more about Teotihuacán’s history and see many of the different discoveries that have been uncovered from the dig sites. Here you can study objects used in daily life inside Teotihuacán. There are beautiful carvings dedicated to the various gods. And hundreds of pieces of jewelry made from shells, bones, rocks and more.

Funerary Objects

One of the most interesting parts of the museum is the areas dedicated to burial and funerary materials, as well as a look into human sacrifices! One of the most prevailing stories of ancient Mesoamerican cities is the dark stories of human sacrifice. Originally, it was thought Teotihuacán was quite peaceful, but archaeological digs reveal a darker history. It is well documented that Teotihuacános practiced human sacrifice. Many animal and human skeletons have been found during excavations around the pyramids, consistent with sacrificial burials.

It is strongly believed that to commemorate the building of new structures, the Teotihuacán people would make a human sacrifice, often of a captured enemy, bringing good fortune to this new building. Male warrior skeletons were some of the most prolific remains on the sites. In their hands were large weapons, and they wore ornate necklaces made to look like they were made of human teeth. The stones were carved to look like the lower jawbone of humans to put fear into any enemies they encountered. Animal sacrifices were also very important as they believed animals held mythical powers. When that animal was killed, it was said that the person or site would absorb those powers.

Model of Teotihuacán

Towards the back of the museum is a large minature model of the entire layout of Teotihuacán as it would have appeared when it was first built. This gives you an idea of the scale and relationship between different areas in a way you could never experience from the ground. Or really understand as it remains today with so many elements lost to time.

Botanic Gardens

Surroundings of the archeology museum are beautiful curated botanic gardens. This garden is a protected area that contains plants that would have grown here naturally in 200 CE. The gardens ensure the preservation of these ancient plants. You can find nopal, manzanilla, plum, avocados, figs, lime trees, cherry, bitter, aloe vera, but also cactus, agave, and cardi plants.

The Quetzalpapálotl 

Quetzalpapálotl  is a complex of ruins that were thought to once be an ancient Palace. Here is where you can see some of the most amazing murals, in situ. These precious paintings still exist today as they were protected from the elements being indoors. This building was constructed around 450 CE. But remnants of an even older structure have been found underneath that date back as early as 250 CE. Since this palace contains so many beautiful and intricate murals, it is thought that this part of the complex was where high-ranking priests of dignitaries lived. As it was occupied by the priests, it is safe to assume that many rituals or sacred ceremonies would have taken place here.

Inner Courtyard

One of the most alluring parts of the building is the inner courtyard, where you can find a series of intricately carved pillars. These pillars represent various mythological creatures from which the name of the building comes.

The birds seen here are the  Nahuatl quetzal  which means  precious feathers . We can also see images of the  pāpālōtl , which are Aztec butterflies.

Palace of the Jaguars

In a small room inside the palace, you’ll find the red-painted murals of the  Palace of the Jaguars . These murals depict plumed felines holding conch shells in their mouth. These murals were thought to represent war as conch shells were used to announce incoming armies during great battles. See if you can spot the rain god  Tlaloc , with his googly eyes and large fangs. Many of these murals are of the highest quality and show off the level of artistry that was present in this community. Many cities would not have had such skilled artisans, so the fact that Teotihuacán employed such artists is more evidence of the greatest of their city.

Templo de Los Caracoles Emplumados

Inside the Palace of Quetzapapalotl, you’ll find the hidden  Templo de Los Caracoles Emplumados  or  Temple of the Feathered Feathered Conches . This temple is buried beneath the rest of the building. You can see a clear carving of the feathered conch on one of the columns. Conch shells were only worn by religious rulers, so this could have been where the city’s rulers would have come from.

Also found in the temple are some incredible green birds. These birds are known as the  quetzals . Stream water flows towards a three-petaled yellow flower from their once bright orange beaks. Although the flower might look like a French  Fleur-de-lis , it is actually thought to be a ripening maize (corn) plant with the leaves peeling back to reveal the cob of corn. Corn has forever been one of the most important plants grown by the Mexican people, so it shares this connection with these life-giving birds.

Cougar Mural

Exiting back on the Avenue of the Dead, as you near the pyramid of the moon, you’ll pass a small shelter that protects another precious mural. This is known as the  Puma or Cougar Mural . This mural is a fantastic example of the decoration with which all the buildings along the Avenue of the Dead would have been painted. The puma (or cougar) is the central point of the mural. Its claws are enormous, showing off its ferocity and strength. The mural’s background is painted with waving lines, which were thought to represent the water.

The Pyramid of the Moon

At the end of the Avenue of the Dead, we find the final pyramid, the  Pyramid of the Moon . This is the second-largest pyramid on the site, built between 100 and 450 CE. Behind the Pyramid stands the great  Cerro Gordo , or “Fat Hill.” The pyramid, while not as tall as the Sun pyramid, is very wide and almost mimics the shape of the hill behind it. In a mural found on the site, there is a depiction of “ The Paradise of Tlaloc ,” which shows the Cerro Gordo mountain as a life-giving natural wonder nourishing the’s people of Teotihuacán. The mountain helped farmers sow and water their crops and therefore was considered sacred and deserving of great reverence.

But there is a darker aspect of this mural as well. In addition to the water-giving nature of the mountain, the mural shows sacrificial enslaved figures, bound together, who are being fed to the mountain. This depiction confirms that this pyramid was where many sacrificial rituals were performed and was a burial ground for these victims. These burial sites contained felines, birds of prey, snakes, and, yes, even human remains. Since all the animals found on the site were carnivorous, it is thought that therefore the sacrifices were closely associated with warfare.

As the moon is a part of the world of night, and therefore the underworld, the pyramid was thought to be a place that honours the Great Goddess of Teotihuacán. A tomb was discovered in the tunnels beneath the pyramid dedicated to the Great Goddess herself. There, they found a single human male sacrificial victim and a wolf, jaguar, puma, serpent, bird skeletons, and more than 400 other relics. Many of these items, such as ceremonial knives and spear points, were violent.

The placement of the Pyramid of the Moon at the end of the Avenue of the Dead has been theorized to represent the human journey coming to an end of the road. And the temple underneath is dedicated to the great goddess, your entry into the underworld.

In front of the pyramid is a large plaza that Mesoamericans used as a place of gathering and socialization. The plaza was used for astronomical observation as well. It is surrounded by pyramidal bases that would have housed temples and provided viewing platforms for the city’s elite.

Museo de los Murales Teotihuacanos

I highly recommend visiting the  Murals Museum of Teotihuacán  if time allows. The museum houses hundreds of murals that have been excavated from the archeological zone. The murals are divided into themes that give you a glimpse at an artistic rendition of life in Teotihuacán. You can see paintings of the gods they worshipped and how these gods made an impact on the lives of the people.

Some murals also show the Teotihuacán people playing ball games, almost like soccer or baseball, that we know today! This kind of scene breaks the division of time between this ancient civilization and how we live today.

Various murals come from a compound in  Tepantitla.  The murals from this wonderfully preserved space give us a look inside the daily lives of the Teotihuacán people. You can see Teotihuacános hunting butterflies, farmers sowing seeds and priests performing rituals. These priests wear headdresses with the faces of owls or crocodiles to pay homage to their respective gods.

The museum also features a fantastical recreation of what the interior paintings inside temple spaces would once have looked like. This gives you an idea of the colours and designs that once would have covered these great pyramids’ entire outside and inside. It brings the rocks to life, and I can’t imagine who utter awe one would have experienced hundreds of years ago, walking into this city for the first time.

This brings us to the end of the guided tour. Teotihuacán is truly one of the most spectacular ancient sites of the old world. I remember the first time I visited the ancient ruins of Rome, I felt a little disappointed. Stuck in the middle of a bustling modern city, they felt out of place. Or at least didn’t imbue the kind of reverence I had expected from these time-worn relics. But Teotihuacán was different. Walking down the avenue of the dead, you feel like an explorer coming across the discovery of a lifetime. You can feel the sacred nature of the stones and see the grandeur of the city which once was. I definitely think whatever way you can make your way here, don’t miss seeing this amazing piece of history!

Have you been to Teotihuacán before? Or is there another ancient ruin you loved exploring for the first time? Let me know in the comments!

Happy Travels Adventurers!

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Thank you for this guide, it made visiting this site so much easier! One correction though – you can no longer climb Pyramid of the Sun or Pyramid of the Moon. The only one you can still go to the top of is the Feathered Serpent Pyramid.

The Creative Adventurer

Thanks so much for the update Tamila. Apparently they closed it down during Covid and now they are keeping it closed to preserve it for generations to come. I’ve gone ahead and updated the post to reflect this. Always appreciate these updates from my explorers.

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Pyramid of the sun.

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5 stars 4 stars 3 stars 2 stars 1 star 5.00/5 - (1 Votes) Lando Local tour guide "To beat the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience at the Pyramid of the Sun, arrive early in the morning before the tour buses start rolling in. Don't forget to bring comfortable shoes and climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the ancient ruins and the surrounding city."

What is Pyramid of the Sun?

The Pyramid of the Sun is an ancient archaeological site located in Teotihuacan, just outside of Mexico City. It is one of the largest pyramids in the world and is considered one of the most important landmarks in Mexico.

History of Pyramid of the Sun

The history of the Pyramid of the Sun dates back to the pre-Columbian era. It was built by the ancient Teotihuacan civilization, which thrived from around 200 BCE to 600 CE. The pyramid served as a religious and ceremonial center for the city, and it was believed to be the place where the gods and cosmic forces converged. When planning your tours in Mexico City don't forget to visit Pyramid of the sun.

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Why is Pyramid of the Sun Important?

The Pyramid of the Sun is important for several reasons. First, it is a significant archaeological site that provides valuable insights into the ancient Teotihuacan civilization. The pyramid's construction and design showcase the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the Teotihuacan people.

Second, the Pyramid of the Sun attracts millions of visitors each year, contributing to Mexico's tourism industry. The site's historical and cultural significance makes it a must-visit destination for both locals and international tourists.

Lastly, the Pyramid of the Sun symbolizes Mexico's rich cultural heritage and serves as a reminder of the country's ancient civilizations and their contributions to human history.

Things to do & see at Pyramid of the Sun

• Explore the Pyramid : Visitors can climb the Pyramid of the Sun to reach the top and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The climb can be a bit challenging, but the experience is well worth it.
• Visit the Avenue of the Dead: The Pyramid of the Sun is located on the Avenue of the Dead, a central road that runs through the ancient city of Teotihuacan. Take a stroll along this ancient pathway and marvel at the ruins of other important structures.
• Discover the Museum : There is a museum near the Pyramid of the Sun that houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the Teotihuacan civilization. Learn about the history, culture, and daily life of the ancient inhabitants.
• Attend a Light and Sound Show : In the evenings, the Pyramid of the Sun comes to life with a spectacular light and sound show. Watch as the pyramid is illuminated, and listen to the narration that tells the story of Teotihuacan.

With its rich history, awe-inspiring architecture, and cultural significance, the Pyramid of the Sun is a must-visit attraction in Mexico City. 

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Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the mysteries of an ancient civilization, the Pyramid of the Sun offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Frequently asked questions

The Pyramid of the Sun (Pirámide del Sol) is one of the largest and most iconic pyramids in Teotihuacan, an ancient city located near Mexico City. It is renowned for its grandeur and historical importance.

The Pyramid of the Sun was constructed around 200 CE (Common Era) during the Teotihuacan civilization. The exact builders and purpose of the pyramid remain subjects of scholarly debate.

This massive pyramid stands approximately 216 feet (66 meters) tall and covers a base of about 730 by 760 feet (222 by 232 meters). It is believed to have held religious and ceremonial importance in the ancient city's culture.

Yes, visitors can climb the Pyramid of the Sun to reach its summit, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding archaeological site and the Avenue of the Dead. However, it's important to note that climbing the pyramid involves steep, uneven steps, and visitors should take precautions.

Visitors should wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for climbing uneven steps. It's also advisable to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as the area can get quite hot.

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Visiting Teotihuacan: My Guide to the Mexico City Pyramids

• by Jake Perry
• May 31, 2024

Did you know there are 2000-year-old pyramids near Mexico City? Here’s a detailed Teotihuacan travel guide, with everything you’d need to know about visiting Teotihuacan.

Just 1 hour outside of Mexico City stands the most impressive archaeological site in Mexico : the Teotihuacan Pyramids. Teotihuacan was one of the largest cities in the pre-Hispanic Americas, at one point housing over 150,000 people.

Walking through the Teotihuacan Pyramids is like taking a step back in time – you can almost feel the energy of this ancient city back in its heyday. However, little is known about the city and archaeologists still have not come to any conclusion after years of research. This is what makes Teotihuacan such a fascinating place to visit!

To help you plan your trip to the Teotihuacan ruins, I’ve written this detailed guide to share how to visit Teotihuacan, including the best way to get there, best spots to visit, and best place to eat there.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Teotihuacan Ruins?

Best time to visit teotihuacan, mexico city travel guide: practical resources, by taxi/uber, by day tour, cost of visiting teotihuacan, teotihuacan hours, how much time to visit teotihuacan, mexico travel requirements, how to get around teotihuacan, best teotihuacan tours from mexico city, visiting teotihuacan with kids, climb the pyramid of the sun, walk along the avenue of the dead, see the pyramid of the moon, stroll through the palace of the jaguars, la ciudadela, mural of the great goddess, tepantitla palace, visit the teotihuacan museums, where to eat at teotihuacan, where to stay near teotihuacan, what to pack for teotihuacan, rules at teotihuacan , final tips for visiting teotihuacan.

The Teotihuacan Pyramids are THE most popular day trip from Mexico City , for good reason . The Teotihuacan pyramids are some of the largest in the world and the entire complex is incredibly well preserved. Because of its historical significance, Teotihuacan was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site . 

What’s most impressive about Teotihuacan is the sheer size of its monuments – in particular, the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon. Not only that, these monuments are laid out on geometric and symbolic principles, bearing testimony to the engineering skills and advancement of ancient Mexico.

Teotihuacan Pyramids Facts

Translated to mean ‘ the place where the gods were create d’, Teotihuacan was once a powerful center in Mesoamerica. The Teotihuacan civilization mysteriously declined around 650 A.D., and the city was eventually abandoned. It’s theorized that a combination of environmental and social issues could have led to the decline, but no one knows for sure.

It’s not fully known who founded Teotihuacan and constructed its immense pyramids and temples. But some archaeologists speculate that it was likely the Toltecs or the Totonacs. Hailing from central Mexico, the Toltecs were well known for their ridiculously huge statues and head carvings. The Totonacs came from the state of Veracruz and the people, who still exist today, believe that their ancestors were the ones who built Teotihuacan.

However, evidence shows that Teotihuacan was home to several civilizations, including the Toltecs, Totonacs, Mayans, Mixtecs, and Zapotecs. To add to the mystery, the people who inhabited Teotihuacan had a written language, but researchers have yet to decode it.

Teotihuacan is one of the most visited ancient ruins in Mexico ; it can get busy on weekends, particularly on Sunday when it’s free for citizens and residents of Mexico. The best time to visit Teotihuacan is during the lower season months (April-September).

During high season it gets a little overrun with visitors, which somewhat takes the wow factor out of the place. Avoid visiting Teotihuacan during peak travel season – Christmas, New Year, Easter (Holy Week), and other Mexican holidays. Another busy period is during Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) – 26 Oct to 2 Nov – when many flock to Mexico City for the vibrant celebrations. [Read more about Day of the Dead !]

In general, Teotihuacan is warm and sunny all year round. Its high elevation keeps the temperature pretty mild though the sun does beat down hard. The coolest months are between December and February, although temperatures still average around 72°F (23℃) in the day. Read my guide on when to visit Mexico City .

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How to Get to the Teotihuacan Ruins

Teotihuacan is located about 30 miles (50 kilometers) northeast of Mexico City , and it takes just 1 hour to get there. You can easily include it in your Mexico City itinerary even if you only have 4/5 days in the city.

The easiest way to get there is by bus, which takes around 60 minutes from Terminal Central del Norte station. The bus costs around $50MXN/$2.40USD each way . The first bus to Teotihuacan departs at 6am with more departures about every 20 minutes thereafter until 2pm. I recommend getting a SIM card to get around; read my guide on how to get a Mexico SIM card .

You could take a taxi or an Uber, but this will inevitably be more expensive. We booked an Uber from our hotel in the Centro Historic, and spent around 800 MXN (US$50) each way . Initially we were worried about not finding an Uber back as we’d read that there’s no cell signal in most of the complex. But we walked to Gate 5 and it just took us 10 minutes to get one.

Another way to get there is to book a day tour from Mexico City that includes transportation, admission, and a guide. It’s a great option if you want to learn more about Teotihuacan and have someone else handle the logistics. You can even book a Teotihuacan hot air balloon flight that includes a visit to the archaeological site.

The cost of visiting Teotihuacan is relatively cheap. Admission to the site is 80 MXN (US$4) for adults and free for children under 13 years old. The entrance fees cover the entrance to the site, Teotihuacan Culture Museum, and the Museum of Teotihuacan Murals.

Tickets can be purchased at any of the entrance gates to the Mexico City Pyramids. Your ticket allows you to leave and re-enter during the same day, so you can go out of the archaeological zone for a break or lunch and then return.

If you’re looking to take a tour here they start from around $650MXN/$33USD per person. Here’s a look at the Teotihuacan tours available. Read more to find out which tours I recommend.

Teotihuacan is open every day from 9AM to 5PM, 365 days a year. Teotihuacan Culture Museum is open 9AM to 4:30PM every day and the Museum of Teotihuacan Murals is open 8AM to 5PM, Tuesday through Sunday.

The best time to visit Teotihuacan is early in the morning, around opening time. This is when the site is the least crowded and you can avoid the heat of midday.

Make sure to arrive before 3PM however as this is the time of last entry. The site staff don’t allow any leeway for this time. Gates close at 3PM sharp.

You could easily spend a whole day at the Teotihuacan Pyramids, but if you’re short on time, I would plan at least 3 hours. Of course, this all depends on your interests and how much detail you want to go into while exploring the site.

The museums themselves can take up to an hour or so each. If you are planning on visiting them, then make sure to plan this into the trip. Plus, if you’re looking to spend time getting lunch at the site restaurant that will extend the trip too. 

• Mexico has no travel restrictions, and there’s no need for proof of vaccine or PCR tests on the plane. Anyone is welcomed to travel to Mexico.
• However, I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. These days, it is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19. Read my travel insurance guide.
• Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.

When you reach the site, there are 5 different entrances. If you’re looking to do a full tour of the site then the best entrance for this will be at the south of the site (entrance gate 1).

From here you’ll walk through the site restaurant, then come out onto the Avenue of the Dead which consists of a 2km stretch, passing all of the main monuments of the site. I suggest leaving through gate 5 as that is where you’ll find the best restaurant in Teotihuacan (more on this later).

I always say the best way to travel is independently as it allows you to go at your own pace and make changes on the fly. That said, Teotihuacan can be challenging to visit on your own as there’s not a lot of information available in English and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the size of the site.

If your budget allows, I highly recommend the Teotihuacan Tour with a Hot Air Balloon Ride . This tour ($137) includes transportation from Mexico City, admission to Teotihuacan, an English-speaking guide, and a hot air balloon ride over the pyramids. It’s an incredible experience and one that I think everyone should do at least once in their life.  Read about my experience on a Teotihuacan hot air balloon flight.

Alternatively, this early access tour is great for those who want to enjoy the archaeological site without the crowd. It also includes tequila tasting at a family-run workshop in Tlacaelel. This tour is US$39 and lasts for around 8 hours.

There’s also a night show at Teotihuacan where you can experience the Teotihuacan ruins after dark . It begins with a guided tour of the park and ends with a light and sound show. You’ll need to book tickes in advance online at the  Ticketmaster webpage  and pick them up at any Ticketmaster outlet.

Teotihuacan is a huge complex and there’s very little shade, so it can be tricky for families traveling with young kids. That said, it’s absolutely doable if you plan in advance or book a private tour which will give you more flexibility.

Nellie, the founder of this blog, visited Teotihuacan with her daughter when she was 6 years old and had a great time! Kids at that age can walk long distances and can handle the heat, so it’s not a problem.

If you’re traveling with younger kids, I suggest carrying them in a sling or hiking carrier. It would be a pain to transport tiny toddlers in a stroller, with the ground paved in ancient, uneven stones. Pack lots of water, hat, and maybe an umbrella for kids who don’t do well in the sun.

Things to Do at Teotihuacan

Here are some of the highlights that I would make sure to tick off first during your visit:

At 213 feet tall, the Pyramid of the Sun is the largest structure at the Teotihuacan ruins and one of the highest pyramids in the world . Built around 200 A.D., the Pyramid of the Sun is actually made of six pyramids, each one stacked on top the other. And underneath it all is a cave.

Located on the east side of the Avenue of the Dead, it’s set between the Pyramid of the Moon and the Ciudadela. Just like many of the mysterious Teotihuacan safeguards, it’s still not fully known the original reasons why this structure was erected. It’s been theorized that it was constructed for a deity. 

In normal circumstances, you can actually climb the pyramid and feast on the views from above. Sadly, it was closed for climbing during our last visit in November 2021. But rules are constantly changing, so make sure to check before climbing.

The Avenue of the Dead (Avenida de los Muertos) is the main thoroughfare through Teotihuacan and it’s lined with pyramids on both sides. The long, broad thoroughfare goes from the Pyramid of the Moon on its north end to the Ciudadela complex on the south end, near the main entrance to the park.

On the way, the Avenue of the Dead passes many ceremonial platforms that house intricate murals and carvings. Back in the heydays, the road was 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) long.

The Pyramid of the Moon is the oldest structure in Teotihuacan, and it’s located at the northern end of the Avenue of the Dead. It’s thought to have been built around 150 A.D. At 147 feet, this is the second highest structure in the complex.

Archeologists have found a significant number of sacrificed remains inside this pyramid, including 12 human bodies and a range of animal cadavers. From this, it’s believed to have been a site of religious significance and for public ritual purposes.

Normally, it’s also allowed to climb the Pyramid of the Moon (but was also closed during our last visit). Just be prepared for a bit of a workout as they’re quite steep!

The Palace of the Jaguars is one of the most impressive buildings in Teotihuacan. It’s covered in reliefs of jaguars, eagles, and other sea creatures. Apparently, it’s the most sacred place in the whole of Teotihuacan.

This building has a large courtyard surrounded by small rooms with magnificent remains of mural paintings. It’s presumed to be a planning place for temple events and special occasions. 

Across the Pyramid of the Moon stands La Ciudadela (the Citadel), a large ceremonial courtyard that contains the Temple of Quetzalcoatl.

The temple is one of my favorite spots at Teotihuacan. Quetzalcoatl was the Feathered Serpent and an important god to most Mesoamerican cultures. His temple is decorated with large carvings of toothy snake heads with slithering bodies, along with images of marine life, such as clams and conch shells.

The Great Goddess, a mysterious deity of the Teotihuacan civilization, can be found depicted in several locations at the Mexico City Pyramids. The most striking mural is at the Tetitla compound. 

Often depicted with an elaborate jade nose-bar through her septum, the Goddess has become known as the “Spider Woman of Teotihuacan.”  On the mural of Tetitla, the Goddess wears an extravagant headdress reminiscent of those worn by dancers at Brazilian carnival. It is made of long green quetzal feathers, which fan out around her which are believed to represent the rays of the sun.

To the east of the Pyramid of the Moon, the Tepantitla Palace is quite a walk away from the Avenue of the Dead, but it’s definitely worth a visit. From the outside, the building looks like a stable, but upon entering the walls reveal traces of elaborate paintings.

One mural particularly stands out, and is lauded as the most impressive mural of all Teotihuacán: the mural of Tlālōcān. In Aztec mythology, Tlālōcān was the marvelous underworld ruled over by the water deity Tlaloc. Tepantitla is believe to have been a palace, a priest’s house, or the opulent residence of an aristocrat.

I highly recommend making time to visit the museums, which are actually easy to miss as they’re tucked behind the cacti gardens. They have interesting exhibits and informative explanations, along with air conditioning, which can be a godsend on hot days.

There are two museums at the ruins of Teotihuacan; entry is included with your ticket.

• The  Teotihuacan Murals Museum (near Gate 3A)  houses over fifty millennia-old murals along with several artifacts recovered from on-site temples and palaces.
• The  Teotihuacan Cultural Museum (next to Gate 5) displays more than 600 artifacts found in the archaeological site, from over the ten centuries the city lasted. The museum also has a sculpture garden and a botanical garden.

There are a few different places to try authentic Mexican food at Teotihuacan: If you’re looking for something quick and affordable, there’s a row of food stands near the entrance 4 and 5.

But I strongly suggest heading to  La Gruta Cave Restaurant  which is just a 10-minute walk away from Gate 5. This was easily the best meal we had in Mexico City! We visited during the Day of the Dead , and were impressed to find an atmospheric ofrenda (altar) set up in their cave.  Reservations, especially when visiting on a weekend, are highly recommended.

The underground restaurant serves contemporary Mexican cuisine in at atmospheric volcanic cave illuminated by candles. The menu is made of traditional Mexican dishes with a modern twist. My  panceta  (pork belly) with mole sauce was out of this world, and Alberto’s  barbacoa  lamb meat was divine. Their mezcal cocktails also hit the spot.

Teotihuacan isn’t jam-packed with hotels, because most people come for a day trip from Mexico City. Check out our complete guide on where to stay in Mexico City. For those who prefer to stay near the Teotihuacan pyramids, I’ve put together some recommendations and included a mix suitable for all traveler’s budgets. 

Luxury: Lujosa Villa

This place is a private villa, suitable for up to 6 people. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with your family or friends as it has a private pool as well as cable TV. Rates start at around 1950 MXN/US$94 per night.  Book here.

Luxury: Hotel y Suites Osdan

This is another apartment that can sleep up to 4 people. They have a fitness center within, a fully equipped kitchen, and car parking spaces. It’s situated close to Avenue Tuxpan for easy access to the pyramids. Rates start at around 20,100 MXN/US$102 per night. Book here!

Mid Range: Hotel Boutique Rancho San Juan Teotihuacan

We stayed at this gorgeous ranch/boutique hotel and loved the green space and country style! It’s a bit outside Teotihuacan but they offer a shuttle to the pyramids. The rooms are nice and spacious with a beautiful garden setting. Rates start at around 1250 MXN/US$60 per night.  Book here!

Mid Range: Hotel Palmas Teotihuacán

Roughly 3km from the pyramids, this place is a little bit away from the tourist’s murmurs. It’s got a nice garden for you to catch some sun plus an on-site restaurant and bar. Rates start at around 1450 MXN/US$71 per night.  Book here.

Budget: Hotel Fer  

This is a simple but still comfortable place to stay. They offer free parking and 24-hour reception as well as being located close to Teotihuacan’s main gate for easy access into the complex. Rates start at around 520MXN/US$25 per night.  Book here.

*These are daily rates per room, not per person. Most hotels have rooms ranging from single to quadruple rooms.

Unlike the Palenque ruins that are shrouded in forest, there is very little shade and it can get very hot. Make sure you pack a hat, lots of water, and light, airy clothes. Otherwise, there are several souvenir shops within the archaeological site that sell hats, sunscreen, and water.

The walking isn’t too difficult as it’s mostly flat. You won’t need hiking boots. I wore my Teva sandals for the whole day and they were fine. Here’s the list of what I packed/wore:

• KEEN Sandals
• Hiking t-shirt
• Hiking shorts
• Lightweight daypack
• Sunscreen – SFP50+ if possible
• Wide-rimmed hat 
• Water bottle (2 liters)

During our visit, both the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon were closed for climbing and museums were closed too, due to COVID19. The guards explained that they’d been closed since March 2020 and there’s no update on when they’ll reopen.

It is disappointing not to be able to climb the Mexico City pyramids, but there are still elevated spots from which you can get great views of the site. The lookout point next to the Pyramid of the Moon for instance is an excellent spot. [You can still climb the pyramids at Palenque ruins in Chiapas .]

It goes without saying that you need to be respectful of the site. This is an ancient archaeological site and it’s important to remember that. Make sure you stay within the boundaries and not wander into forbidden areas. Drones are not allowed in the area.

I hope you found this Teotihuacan travel guide helpful and that it has inspired you to visit the Mexico City pyramids.

Here are a few final tips for your trip:

• Arrive just as gates open at 9am to avoid the crowds. Book an early access tour if you want to be the first through its gates!
• Take plenty of water and snacks with you. There are many vendors selling cold drinks in the archaeological site, just make sure the bottled drinks are sealed before opening them.
• Wear sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes – it gets hot!
• You will need cash for the entrance fees, so make sure to bring some Mexican Pesos with you.
• Teotihuacan is full of street vendors selling all kinds of souvenirs. They’re obviously more expensive here than elsewhere, so avoid buying souvenirs here. The vendors are usually not too pushy, just smile and say “no gracias” and walk away.

Thank you for reading this far. If you have any questions or tips of your own, please leave them in the comments below and I will be happy to reply to any questions you have.

Read my articles on Mexico City below:

• Teotihuacan Hot Air Balloon Guide
• 15 Best Mayan Ruins in Mexico
• My Guide to the Tulum Ruins
• My Guide to Palenque Ruins
• Best Time to Visit Mexico City
• Where to Stay in Mexico City
• 22 Best Day Trips from Mexico City
• 30 Best Museums in Mexico City
• Day of the Dead in Mexico City: My 2022 Guide
• The Ultimate Day of the Dead Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!

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5 thoughts on “Visiting Teotihuacan: My Guide to the Mexico City Pyramids”

Hello. Planning our first trip to Mexico City and came across your web page on the Teotihuacán Pyramids. I found your site very informative and wanted to say “thank you” for putting in the time and effort. If we don’t squeeze this pyramid trip on our upcoming weekend trip, then we’ll definitely do it on the next one.

Sincerely, Jason Logsdon | San Antonio, TX

Aww thank you Jason, so kind of you!

I echo what Jason said! Very helpful and informative! Thank you so much for putting this together. I’m traveling to CDMX for my first time in October! This is #1 on my list!

Thank you Abby, much appreciated! Enjoy Teotihuacan!!!!

Most beautiful places, I really want to go there. Thanks

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Journey To Mexico

Your Travel Guide To Mexico

Visiting Teotihuacan Pyramids – The Ultimate Travel Guide

Located near Mexico City , about 40 kilometers to the northeast, is an archaeological site known as Teotihuacan , also referred to as the “City of the Gods.”

Ancient pyramids are scattered throughout this area, and its name translates to “the location where humanity became gods” in the Náhuatl language. Legend has it that the gods met here to plan the creation of humanity.

During its golden era, Teotihuacan was the most populous pre-Columbian city in the Americas. Historically, the city’s name has also been used to refer to the vast civilization it once led, which spanned most of Mesoamerica.

Today, Teotihuacan is one of Mexico ‘s largest UNESCO Heritage Sites and one of the most popular landmarks in the country . It is a must-visit for anyone looking to learn more about the country’s rich history.

Things you'll find in this article

The Origins of the Teotihuacan

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Home to some of the world’s most spectacular pyramids, the Teotihuacan is a massive pre-Colombian archaeological site in Mexico . Beyond the pyramids, Teotihuacan offers a wide range of additional sights worth seeing, such as a sprawling residential area and the Avenue of the Dead.

Since it was founded in the 1st century AD, Teotihuacan quickly rose to become the region’s greatest city. As a major center of the Teotihuacan Valley’s cultural life, it had a considerable impact on the rest of Mexico.

Many people moved to the city, and it became one of the most densely populated places on the planet. This population boom was evident even today when you visit the pyramids since they were built during the peak of the city’s heyday.

During the seventh century A.D., Teotihuacan began to fall into disrepair for causes that are yet unknown. Simultaneously, several Mayan cities in the south were vacated. However, the remains of the city and the pyramids had a lasting impact on the world even to this day.

Teotihuacan means “Birthplace of the Gods” in the local Aztec dialect, and it is believed by some scholars that the Aztec settlers who came to create Tenochtitlan (which is now occupied by today’s Mexico City) made pilgrimages to the temples.

After the conquest by the Spanish during the early 1500s, the pyramids deteriorated even worse until centuries later, when archaeologists began excavating them.

Easily one of Mexico’s outstanding examples of pre-Hispanic pyramids, Teotihuacan is now one of the most remarkable archeological sites in Mexico and a must for anyone exploring the country.

How to Get There

Teotihuacan lies about 50 kilometers (32 miles) north of downtown Mexico City. This massive archeological site can easily be visited as a day trip from the city , with tours leaving continuously throughout the day, every day of the year. As long as you’re traveling from the central Mexican city of Puebla , there are numerous ways to get to Teotihuacan.

● By Bus – You can take a bus to Teotihuacan from Mexico City’s northern bus terminal, Terminal Autobuses del Norte. In addition to taking the yellow metro line, you can get an Uber to go to this terminal. You can find a desk in Sala 8 of the bus terminal, and that’s where you get the ticket.

The buses leave every 15 to 20 minutes and take a little more than an hour to complete the journey. The round-trip fare is a little over 100 pesos (about $11).

● By Tour – Whether you’re a solo traveler, on a getaway with your partner, or exploring Mexico with friends, there’s a Mexico City to Teotihuacán tour for you. Most tours last for several hours and include pickup and drop-off, traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, entrance tickets, and a tour guide.

Some tours include other destinations, such as this Teotihuacán and Guadalupe tour and another that combines a visit to Teotihuacán and the Frida Kahlo museum.

To book this tour click here.

● By Bus – Puebla to Teotihuacán bus travel takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 124 kilometers. Autobuses Teotihuacan is the operator of these Puebla to Teotihuacán buses. Eight buses typically travel to Teotihuacán during weekdays. On weekends and holidays, there may be fewer or more, so be sure to check ahead of time.

Buses from Puebla to Teotihuacán are operated by Autobuses Teotihuacan. They depart from Puebla city center station and stop at Teotihuacán station.

● By Car – It is possible to get from Puebla to Teotihuacán by renting a car, as long as you have a valid driver’s license and insurance. Puebla and Teotihuacán are 136 kilometers apart. The travel from Puebla to Teotihuacán takes about 1 hour and 32 minutes.

● By Tour – if you are traveling with a group of family or friends, you may enjoy a day excursion from Puebla to Teotihuacán by taking a full-day private tour like this one for a more immersive experience. If you’re not familiar with the rules of the road and don’t want to waste time waiting and driving, this is a great alternative.

Private tours often include hotel pickup and drop-off, traveling in a specially equipped vehicle, entrance tickets, and a private tour guide.

Things To See and Do In Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan is a massive ancient city, so allow plenty of time to see everything. You’ll need at least three hours to see everything there is to see. The following is a list of the top locations to visit in Teotihuacan.

At 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) long, the Avenue of the Dead goes from the Temple of Quetzalcoatl toward the Pyramid of the Moon in a straight line. This is the main street in Teotihuacan, named after those who died on the Pyramids of Teotihuacan.

There are numerous temples and other attractions that you can visit as you make your way along the Boulevard.

Among Teotihuacan’s most notable structures is the Pyramid of the Sun, which was once one of the tallest structures in the New World.

For those who haven’t climbed it yet, you will be happy to know that visitors are allowed to climb up.

Almost every visitor to Teotihuacan has a goal of reaching the top platform of the pyramid, therefore the steps going up to it can get quite congested at times. Steps leading to the highest platform are rickety and steep, so take your time.

This is Teotihuacan’s second-largest pyramid. People who lived in the ancient city were able to see rites and sacrifices taking place from the top of the structure, which stands 43 meters tall and has a big platform on top.

Nowadays, there’s no better place on this site to take a picture than the Pyramid of the Moon, which encircles Teotihuacan’s notorious Avenue of Death. The Pyramid of the Moon’s stairs can be climbed to the top for spectacular views of the entire complex.

The third-largest pyramid at Teotihuacan is the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, commonly known as the Temple of the Feathered Serpent. First-time visitors often see this temple because it’s located near Gate 1.

Despite being not as magnificent compared to the other pyramids in the distance, this one has a rich history, some of which is a little gloomy. Hidden tunnels run beneath the pyramid, and unlike other temples, this one is located within the city walls rather than on the outskirts.

In the Teotihuacan Archaeological Zone, you can visit two museums: the Site Museum inside the complex and the Museum of Teotihuacan Murals across the path from the Pyramid of the Moon, both of which are included in your entry ticket.

Archaeological Museum of Teotihuacan (Museo de Sitio de Teotihuacán) – This museum features virtual reality simulations that depict the history of Teotihuacan. Excavations have unearthed numerous artifacts and samples of the local beliefs and rituals, which are also on display here.

Museum of Teotihuacan Murals – The Autonomous University of Mexico collaborated with Teotihuacan to build this Museum of Teotihuacan Art. Numerous artifacts from the prehistoric period are kept here which include stone carvings as well as pottery. There are also mural pieces, models, and literature explaining the development of the mural painting.

FAQs About Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan is open every day of the year from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are modest entrance fees (75 pesos or around $5), and discounts are available for students, children, and the elderly.

Admission is free on Sundays for Mexican citizens and residents of other countries, but they must present proof of residency.

Make sure you arrive at Teotihuacan just before the 9 a.m. opening time. This is Mexico’s busiest Mesoamerican site, so getting an early start allows you to see and do more.

Teotihuacan’s pyramids require at least three to four hours to see everything there is to see. There will be plenty of time to stroll between the pyramids, as well as time to visit the museum and have a snack or a meal along the way.

If you plan to use a tripod to shoot photos at the archaeological site, you will need a permit. Small fees are levied for the usage of video equipment that can be carried by the user.

Once inside the entryway, hire an official guide or purchase a full written guide before you begin your tour, as there are few English-language signs.

It’s common for a guide to charge between 850 pesos and 1500 pesos per hour for a one- to two-hour session. Before paying, non-Spanish speakers should verify that the guide’s English skills are adequate.

Only a small number of people are allowed to climb the Teotihuacan pyramids (the Moon Pyramid is only half-climbed), so expect a long wait once it opens at 9 a.m. If you have mobility or fitness concerns, you may not be able to make the short but arduous climb to the top.

Both outside and inside the site, local merchants sell food, drink , and crafts; be sure to bring some pesos with you. It is also permitted to leave the premises for lunch and return with your original ticket.

It’s not possible to spend a night inside the pyramids, however, it is possible to stay in the surrounding areas. You can easily travel from the pyramids to the city center, where you can choose from a variety of lodging options such as :

Average rate: 9.8 Exceptional

Bright, airy, and spacious, Dear Teoti is the ideal place to stay either if you’re getting ready to visit or want to rest after exploring Teotihuacan. This accommodation consistently gets high ratings from customers for its cleanliness, comfort, and great service.

A big plus are the murals adorning the hotel and the fantastic views of the pyramids from the terrace.

Hotel Quinto Sol

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hotel Quinto Sol Teotihuacán (@hotelgsquintosolteotihuacan)

Average rate : 8.3 Very Good

The Teotihuacan Pyramids are only a 5-minute walk away from Hotel Quinto Sol. The sunset with views of the pyramids and the hot air balloon show can be seen from the hotel balcony. The rooms here are pretty and spacious, with comfortable beds and access to the pool. There’s also free wifi, as well as two on-site restaurants, so you don’t have to go far to enjoy some hot Mexican dishes.

For the latest rate, click here.

Travel Tips

● The Teotihuacan Archaeological site has five entrances. For a complete tour of the property, enter from the south (Entrance 1). After that, take a stroll down Avenue of the Dead, which is approximately 1.25 miles or 2 kilometers).

● Many tour groups begin their journey at the Pyramid of the Sun for a more condensed itinerary (Entrance 2). It’s ideal if you’re short on time or don’t want to walk.

● To climb the pyramids safely, you must wear sturdy walking shoes with non-slip soles and padded insoles. Make sure your skin can breathe by wearing light, breathable clothing.

● Arrive in Teotihuacan early. For a better experience, arrive before 8 a.m. when the doors open. This is to avoid crowds and enjoy a cooler temperature while exploring the site. You’ll also be able to get out of the park early in the day and avoid the rush of traffic as the day wears on.

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Hola! Que tal? I'm Christine, a Filipina but in love with Mexico. I used to live in Central America and Mexico is my favorite. Love tacos, tequila, and margarita.

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Visiting Teotihuacan: Your Guide To The Mexico City Pyramids

Experience the magic of Teotihuacan Archaeological Site, hosted by a local Context Expert.

Ancient sacredness permeates Teotihuacan, captivating visitors as they imagine what life was like in this amazing metropolis. Teotihuacan was once the site of one of the largest ancient cities in the Americas, with more than 25,000 inhabitants. Developed between the 1st and 7th centuries A.D., Teotihuacan’s influence on city planning and urban development is still relevant today.

Visitors can explore the world-famous Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, along with the Great Compound with the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, during their time in this ancient city.

How to Get from Mexico City to Teotihuacan

Wondering about great day trips from Mexico City? Teotihuacan is a great option! And the best part is that you have many travel options to get from one place to another.

Take a Bus Trip:

• Head to the Terminal de Autobuses del Norte in Mexico City, the main bus terminal for northbound destinations.
• Purchase a bus ticket from one of the bus companies that operates the Mexico City to Teotihuacan route. There are several options, such as Autobuses Teotihuacanos, Autobuses Pirámides, and Autobuses Estrella Roja, among others.
• The bus ride takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and the specific bus company.

By Guided Tour:

• Many tour companies in Mexico City offer guided tours to Teotihuacan, which includes transportation from Mexico City to the archaeological site.
• Research and book a guided tour in advance.
• Join the tour group at the designated meeting point in Mexico City.

By Rental Car:

• Rent a car from a car rental agency in Mexico City.
• The site is about 25 miles northeast of Mexico City.
• Parking is available at the site for a fee.
• Hail a taxi or use a ride-sharing app to book a taxi from Mexico City to Teotihuacan.
• Negotiate the fare with the taxi driver before starting the trip, or ensure the ride-sharing app provides a fare estimate.
• Confirm with the taxi driver that they will wait for you at the site or arrange a return ride.

Travel Tip: Check the latest travel advisories and safety precautions before embarking on any journey. Make sure to follow local laws and regulations and exercise caution while traveling.

Explore the Teotihuacan Pyramids

The Teotihuacan Pyramids are among the most iconic and well-preserved pyramids in Mexico and the world.

The site is also known for its beautiful murals, extensive residential complexes, and the Avenue of the Dead, lined with smaller pyramids, platforms, and other structures. The Teotihuacan Pyramids are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and are a significant archaeological and cultural landmark in Mexico.

Context offers a full-day Teotihuacan tour from Mexico City led by an archaeologist or historian. Located just an hour outside Mexico City, this former metropolis is the perfect place to experience incredible ancient structures dating back to 100 B.C.

In the first half of the day, your expert guide will discuss the importance of this site in the pre-Columbian history of the Americas. You’ll have a local Mexican lunch afterward, then head to a second nearby location, Acolman, to see a 16th-century convent that was instrumental during the Spanish conquest.

What to Know When Visiting the Teotihuacan Pyramids

The weather in Teotihuacan can vary greatly depending on the season. The dry season (from November to April) generally offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures, making it a popular time to visit. The rainy season (from May to October) can be hot and humid, with frequent afternoon showers, which may affect outdoor exploration.

Teotihuacan is a popular tourist destination, so prepare for crowds! If you prefer to visit when there are fewer visitors, you may want to avoid major holidays or weekends and consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (e.g., May, September, or October) when there may be fewer tourists.

Events and Festivals

Teotihuacan hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Spring Equinox and Day of the Dead celebrations, which offer unique cultural experiences.

Time of Day

Teotihuacan opens early in the morning, and visiting during cooler hours, such as early morning or late afternoon, may provide some respite from the heat of the midday sun.

Cost of Visiting Teotihuacan

Visiting the Teotihuacan pyramids is exceptionally affordable, with an entrance fee of MXN 80 (or just under $4). Your entrance fee gives you access to both museums and the pyramids.

Teotihuacan Hours of Operation

The Mexican pyramids are open from 9 am to 5 pm, 365 days per year.

7 Things to do at Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan offers a rich cultural and historical experience, with various activities and attractions to explore. Here are some popular things to do at Teotihuacan:

#1. Explore the Pyramids

The highlight of any visit to Teotihuacan is exploring the iconic pyramids. While you can no longer climb the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, you can still marvel at these incredible structures and their place in Mexico’s history. Take your time to appreciate the impressive architecture and learn about the history and significance of these ancient pyramids.

#2. Walk the Avenue of the Dead

The Avenue of the Dead is the main thoroughfare of Teotihuacan, stretching about 1.2 miles and lined with smaller pyramids, platforms, and other structures. Take a leisurely walk along this ancient road and revel in the well-preserved murals, carvings, and architectural features that provide insights into the city's ancient civilization.

#3. Visit the Temple of the Feathered Serpent

Also known as the Quetzalcoatl Pyramid, the Temple of the Feathered Serpent is a unique structure at Teotihuacan with intricate stone carvings depicting feathered serpents and other mythological creatures. Explore this stepped pyramid and admire the intricate details of the carvings, which offer clues about the city's religious beliefs and cosmology.

#4. Spend Time at the Teotihuacan Museum

Located near the entrance of the archaeological site, the Teotihuacan Museum provides a wealth of information about the history, culture, and art of the ancient Teotihuacan civilization. It houses a collection of artifacts, including pottery, tools, and sculptures, which offer insights into the ancient inhabitants' daily life, technology, and artistic achievements.

#5. Attend a Light and Sound Show

Teotihuacan offers nightly light and sound shows, where the pyramids and other structures are illuminated with colorful lights while narrations in multiple languages provide a look into the history and mythology of the ancient city. This immersive experience adds a unique dimension to your visit, providing a different perspective on the ancient civilization.

#6. Try Local Food

Teotihuacan is also known for its local cuisine. You can try traditional Mexican dishes at the on-site restaurants or from street vendors outside the archaeological site. Sample local specialties such as tacos, tlayudas, or pulque, a traditional fermented beverage made from the maguey plant, to experience the flavors of the region.

#7. Stroll Through Tepantitla Palace

Tepantitla Palace is a residential complex that was occupied by the elite class of Teotihuacan during its peak period from around 150 to 600 AD. It is known for its well-preserved murals depicting daily life, mythological beings, and religious symbolism. The murals at Tepantitla Palace are considered some of the finest examples of Teotihuacan mural art.

The Tepantitla Palace murals are painted in vibrant colors and include scenes such as nobles, priests, and warriors engaged in various activities, as well as representations of gods, animals, and symbols associated with Teotihuacan's cosmology and religion. The murals provide essential insights into Teotihuacan's social structure, artistic techniques, and worldview and are considered significant cultural and historical artifacts.

Planning the Perfect Trip to Teotihuacan

Visiting the pyramids is an incredible opportunity to learn about Teotihuacan's history and the people who built these awe-inspiring structures.

Teotihuacan Packing List

If you are preparing for a trip to Teotihuacan, here are some items you may want to pack:

• Hat and sunglasses
• Comfortable clothing
• Walking shoes
• Water bottle
• Insect repellent

What to Eat Near Teotihuacan

While there may not be many food options at the archaeological site itself, you can enjoy local cuisine outside Teotihuacan in the nearby town of San Juan Teotihuacan.

Sample local specialties and savor the taste of Mexico when you try:

• Tlayudas: a traditional Oaxacan dish that consists of a large, crispy tortilla topped with refried beans, cheese, meat (such as grilled beef or pork), and various vegetables.
• Mole : a rich and flavorful sauce made from a combination of chilies, chocolate, spices, and other ingredients. It is a base for many traditional Mexican dishes, such as enchiladas, tamales, and chicken or pork dishes, and is known for its complex and delicious flavor profile.
• Agua de Jamaica : a popular Mexican beverage made from hibiscus flowers brewed with water, sugar, and sometimes other flavors like cinnamon or lime. It is a refreshing, tart drink often served chilled as a refreshing beverage.

Tips for Visiting Teotihuacan with Kids

Teotihuacan's sheer size and scope make this landmark amazing – but this can also make it a challenge for younger travelers. Not to worry, with some pre-planning, you can share the wonder of this ancient city with your kids.

Book a small group tour of Teotihuacan for simplicity, ease, and education. Start your tour with a private car service at your accommodation that leaves early and features an in-depth examination of the predominant trio of Teotihuacan structures: the Moon, Sun, and Feathered Serpent pyramids.

The expert archeologist or historian leading the tour (who may be a Teotihuacan local) will dig deep into the histories, traditions, and sacred rights stemming back to the Classical Mesoamerican era. Your path will also take you to a number of important compounds with murals predating the Maya and Aztecs, and you’ll learn about these palace layouts and the artistic style that permeated not just ancient Teotihuacan society but many Mesoamerican civilizations for millennia.

Here are a few other pointers for visiting the Mexican pyramids with kids:

• There is very little shade, so dress appropriately and bring sunscreen.
• Walking around the uneven ground with a stroller would be a challenge, so plan to put little ones in a hiking backpack or a carrier.
• Bring adequate water and snacks to ensure younger visitors stay hydrated and energized for their time at Teotihuacan.

Make the Most of Your Time in Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan still holds many mysteries and secrets – many of which we’ll never know. This ancient and mystical place is an amazing monument to the ingenuity of the people who built the metropolis and lived amongst its show-stopping buildings.

Teotihuacan is a must-do on your Mexico City itinerary, so don’t miss out on this historic landmark. If you are looking to enhance your trip to Mexico City, check out Context’s small group, expert-led tours .

If you want to deepen your knowledge of archaeology, art, or other historical topics, check out Context Learning for on-demand lectures and multi-part courses led by experts.

Here's What Other Context Travelers Are Saying about our  Teotihuacan Excursion:

Alejandro is not only personable and outgoing, but he’s magnificently experienced in Teotihuacan archeology and history. His breadth of experience and knowledge was hugely impressive for someone so young. Super well prepared and organized, very accommodating, entirely professional. Over the course of our six and a half hours or so with him, we felt that we’d had a semester’s worth of instruction. His passion for the subject was contagious and much appreciated. – Michael

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• Things to do in Mexico City
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Visiting Teotihuacan from Mexico City: How to Plan a Self-Guided Day Trip in 2024

Standing on top of the pyramid structure diagonally opposite to the Pyramid of the Moon, I absorbed the 360 degree views of Teotihuacan from up there. With the Pyramid of the Moon to my left and the Pyramid of the Sun to my right, I imagined how Teotihuacan might have looked in its days of glory. Like other interesting archaeological sites, visiting Teotihuacan brings alive the picture of a civilization once so powerful and smart. Yet, now all that remain are the ruins.

We visited Teotihuacan on a day trip from Mexico City. Although there are several tailor-made one-day tours available for purchase by different providers, we chose to do this on our own. We used public transport to get to Teotihuacan from Mexico City. Also, without a guided tour, we explored the Teotihuacan site on our own. This worked well for us as we were not bound by fixed timings of tour companies. We enjoyed reading up about the different structures of Teotihuacan and then relating them to what we saw in person.

So, in this comprehensive guide to visiting Teotihuacan, we will share everything that you need to know for planning a self-guided day trip from Mexico City.

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Table of Contents

Why You Should Visit Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan is an ancient Mesoamerican city that got established by 100 B.C and existed for around 7-8 centuries. By 500 A.D the Teotihuacan civilization reached its peak as its population exploded and architecture flourished. By 750-800 A.D, the Teotihuacan city was abandoned.

It is still being researched why the fantastically planned urban city collapsed. But harsh living conditions, uprising of the poor against the elite and economic growth of groups in neighboring valleys could be some of the possible reasons. As for the ethnicity of Teotihuacan people, it is believed that they were a multi-ethnicity group with representations from Otomi, Zapotec, Mixtec, Maya, Nahua people.

Although the collapse of Teotihuacan city occurred centuries ago, their architectural splendor and urban planning still remain visible in the Teotihuacan archaeological site. In fact, the “Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan” was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 1987.

So, if the idea of an easy day trip from Mexico City to a UNESCO World Heritage Site from an ancient era with mysterious history sounds interesting, you should definitely consider visiting Teotihuacan.

Related Reading: 30+ Best Things to Do in Mexico City

How to Get to Teotihuacan

Located around 48 km (30 miles) from the center of Mexico City, Teotihuacan can be an easy day trip. But, like us, if you are not availing any guided Teotihuacan tours from Mexico City, you need to plan how to get to Teotihuacan.

Option 1: Uber – Very Comfortable Ride & Moderate Pricing

• You can book an Uber from Mexico City. Uber is widely available here.
• One way trip to Teotihuacan will take about an hour and will cost you around 1,000 Mexican Pesos (~ 55 USD).
• For returning from Teotihuacan to Mexico City as well, you will be able to book an Uber, but remember to have Mobile Data available on your phone.
• So, total cost for the round trip transportation from Mexico City to Teotihuacan will be around 110 USD .

Alternative (Optional) Recommendation: If you want to sign up for the adventure of driving through the bustling metropolis of Mexico City, you can rent a car for your day trip to Teotihuacan. Check Discover Cars to browse the best deals across car rental companies in Mexico City.

Option 2: Metro + Bus – Mostly Comfortable Ride and Cheap Pricing

There seem to be several concerns about safety in Mexico . So international visitors do not always feel comfortable availing public transport in Mexico City. But, based on our experience, if you can navigate the well-planned and wide network of public transport in Mexico City, commuting will become easy and very cheap! For example, a Metro ride (subway) from anywhere to anywhere in the city, including connections, will set you off by only 5 Mexican Pesos (~0.3 USD).

You just need to overcome that initial fear and doubt of if it is safe, be cautious of your surroundings and take care of your belongings. Also, speaking Spanish goes a long way.

So, for our trip from Mexico City to Teotihuacan, we decided to commute by public transport. It was not only easy and cheap, but we also had fun, hopping from one transport to another, walking in the Metro stations and Bus station, just blending in with the crowd of regular commuters.

Here are the steps we followed for getting to Teotihuacan from Mexico City:

• Take Metro (Subway) from Juarez Metro Station to La Raza Metro Station.
• Change from Green Line to Yellow Line at La Raza Metro Station.
• Take Metro from La Raza Metro Station to Autobuses del Norte Metro Station.
• Get out of Autobuses del Norte Metro Station, cross the station and enter Autobuses del Norte Bus Station.
• Once inside the Bus Station, take left and walk till the end until you reach near Sala 8.
• Find the counter that says “Autobuses Teotihuacan”.
• Get in the queue and purchase your tickets for “Piramides”. You can buy the return ticket as well from Teotihuacan to Mexico City. Remember to ask when is the last bus, so that you do not get stranded.
• Note the printed departure time on the ticket, and get to the Gate 8 prior to that time.
• There are several buses and hence several queues at Gate 8. So, ask an official at the gate so that he/she can direct you to the right queue for your bus.
• Get down from the bus when the driver calls out “Piramides”.

The bus ride is very comfortable. The bus station is well-equipped with (paid) toilets and lots of eateries.

We reached Teotihuacan in less than an hour by bus, while the return in the evening took around 75 minutes. The Metro ride to the Bus Station took us around 15-20 minutes.

Mexico City to Teotihuacan by Public Transport: Round-Trip Cost

As of March 2024, total cost for the round trip between Mexico City and Teotihuacan is 130 Mexican Pesos (~7.8 USD) . Here is the cost break-up:

• Metro (up): 5 MXN (~0.3 USD)
• Bus (onward): 60 MXN (~3.6 USD)
• Bus (return): 60 MXN (~3.6 USD)
• Metro (down): 5 MXN (0.3 USD)

From left: (1) Indranil at the Autobuses del Norte Metro Station, (2) Return tickets for bus from Autobuses del Norte bus station to Pyramids of Teotihuacan.

Teotihuacan Day Trip from Mexico City: Tour Options

If you prefer to go on a guided tour with everything arranged beforehand, you can check out these highly rated tours:

• Teotihuacan Hot Air Balloon: Enjoy a bird’s eye perspective of Teotihuacan as you float over the ancient ruins in a hot air balloon. The tour price includes breakfast and optional transfer from and to Mexico City in shared vehicle. You can find more about this Teotihuacan hot air balloon tour and book it on Viator or Get Your Guide .
• Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine, Tlatelolco & Tequila Tasting Tour: On this full-day tour, you get to explore not just Teotihuacan, but also Tlatelolco, another important archaeological site and the Basilica de Guadalupe, and get a chance of tequila and mezcal tasting too. Book the tour here.
• Teotihuacan Private Tour from Mexico City: This is a tour focused on exploring Teotihuacan only and learning all about its history from a knowledgable guide. This is a private tour and includes transportation from Mexico City. You can read reviews and book this tour here.

Hotel Recommendations: If you choose to stay back in Teotihuacan for longer and spend a couple of nights in that town, here are some hotel options for you – La Finca del Abuelo Teotihuacan for a nice and no-frills stay, Posada Colibri Hotel & Spa for a deluxe accommodation option with an outdoor pool, and Hotel Palmas Teotihuacan for a hotel option close to the town center. However, like us, if you are visiting Teotihuacan as a day trip from Mexico City, browse hotel options here .

Teotihuacan Archaeological Zone – Entrance Information

If you are planning to visit Teotihuacan on your own, without a guided tour, take a note of these important information.

Teotihuacan Opening Hours

Teotihuacan Archaeological Site is open all days from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm . Entry tickets are sold until 4:30 pm. You are not allowed to stay in the Archaeological Site beyond 5:15 pm. The two museums on site are open between 9:00 am and 4:30 pm.

We suggest arriving early, so that you can start exploring before the daytime temperatures start soaring. Also, if you can visit Teotihuacan on a weekday, you will be able to avoid the massive weekend crowds.

Cultural Wonders of Mexico – Small Group Tour : If you prefer going on fully-guided tours in small groups, check this tour. The tour starts and ends in Mexico City, and takes you to other destinations like Teotihuacan, Puebla, Oaxaca City. As the name suggests, the tour is designed towards cultural exploration. This Mexico tour includes ground transportation in private vehicles, all accommodation, highlight tours and activities, and select meals. The price does not include the costs of international flights and travel insurance. You can book the tour here.

Teotihuacan Entrance Fees

• Adult: 90 MXN (~5 USD)
• Video recording: 50 MXN (~2.8 USD)

Showing the mobile device, I asked at the counter if we needed to purchase the Video Recording Permit for using mobile camera for photos and videos. The official told us that we did not need it. So, if you plan to shoot videos, it’s better to ask at the counter.

Remember to carry the tickets with you at all times, because you will need to show them for entering the museums.

Facilities/ Services

Parking: Yes, there is plenty of parking space. But you need to pay the parking fees: 25 MXN for two-wheelers, 50 MXP for cars, 90 MXN for vehicles with 11-20 passengers capacity, 180 MXN for vehicles with more than 20 passengers capacity.

Restrooms: There are restrooms near all the entrance gates.

Food: Near the entrance gates, there are small shops where you can buy snacks and beverages.

Souvenirs: Near the entrance gates, there are souvenir shops. All across the site of pyramids, there are also several independent vendors selling handicrafts.

Visiting Teotihuacan – What to See?

Teotihuacan was a planned city that saw expedited population growth and economic development. Since its early days, the city put emphasis on socio-economic stratification and religion as integral parts of their culture.

The buildings that played a great importance in the growth of the Teotihuacan city were the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl. However, these are not the only three structures that you should see when visiting Teotihuacan. In this section, we will share overviews of all the structures and creations that you must see during your visit to Teotihuacan from Mexico City.

Teotihuacan Museum

In our opinion, Teotihuacan Museum is the most important part of visiting Teotihuacan archaeological site. Detailed written descriptions, both in Spanish and English, accompany the exhibits.

There is chronological depiction of how Teotihuacan expanded and reached its zenith before it began to fall. If you walk around the museum and consume every bit of information on display, you will have an excellent understanding of the Teotihuacan civilization.

From left: (1) Exhibit of a Teotihuacan God sculpture, (2) Excavated skeletons from the burial grounds of Teotihuacan – both at the Teotihuacan museum.

Pyramid of the Sun

The Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan is the third largest pyramid structure in the world, after Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt and Great Pyramid of Cholula in Mexico. It surely is an impressive structure to behold.

Teotihuacan gained power over the construction of the Pyramid of the Sun, a mighty structure that exuded architectural grandeur and symbolic religious importance. The pyramid, the plaza and the surrounding buildings together enabled Teotihuacan to command over the Valleys of Toluca, Puebla-Tlaxcala and Morelos.

As the name suggests, this pyramid was believed to be a temple dedicated to the Sun god, as per accounts written in the sixteenth century. However, recent archaeological researches suggest otherwise. The Pyramid of the Sun was used to worship not the Sun god, but instead the Rain god – Tlaloc.

Pyramid of the Moon

Along with the Pyramid of the Sun, the other complex that made Teotihuacan powerful was the Pyramid of the Moon and its plaza. It is the second largest pyramid in Mesoamerica after the Pyramid of the Sun.

The Pyramid of the Moon has a very interesting architectural feature. Its shape and position match with the outline of the mountain behind in the distance, Cerro Gordo. So, when you start walking towards the Pyramid of the Moon, you see the pyramid forming a foreground in front on the mountain. But, as you proceed, you will notice the contour of the pyramid gradually blending in with that of Cerro Gordo. Finally, when you are close enough to the Pyramid of the Moon, the mountain behind disappears from your sight.

Temple of the Quetzalcoatl

Quetzalcoatl was one of the most important deities in Mesoamerica. He was the “Feathered Serpent” god who was believed to be a “creator” god. According to Aztecs, he was the creator of humankind. Interestingly, the first mention of Quetzalcoatl ever traced was during the Teotihuacan civilization in the third century.

The Temple of Quetzalcoatl in Teotihuacan was built in 250 A.D and is considered to be one of the most important public buildings in the city. More than 300 serpent head sculptures adorn the slabs of the four facades of this structure.

However, this Temple of Quetzalcoatl now hides behind another building that was built at a later date. So, when you visit Teotihuacan, you will need to climb up this front pyramid structure and then get down from its other side for taking a close view of the Temple of the Feathered Serpent God.

From left: (1) Indranil after getting near the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, (2) The sculptures on the slabs of Temple of Quetzalcoatl.

The Citadel

The Temple of the Quetzalcoatl (and the building that hides the temple) lies on one side of the Citadel. It is a spacious plaza that consisted of temples and residential complexes. At a later date, the west of the Citadel saw the construction of the Great Compound which could have been the city’s marketplace.

Avenue of the Dead

The city of Teotihuacan exhibited a high level of urban planning. It had two principal avenues that were perpendicular to each other, thereby dividing the city into four main quadrants.

One avenue was to the north of the Citadel, running between East and West. The direction of the other avenue was between North and South. It is a 2 km (1.2 miles) long stretch of road, with the Citadel at its one end and the Pyramid of the Moon at the other end. This North-South road is known as the Avenue of the Dead.

The three most important structures of the Teotihuacan city are all found along this Avenue of the Dead. The Avenue of the Dead possibly gets its name because of the tombs laid along the way.

Jaguar Mural

Jaguars played an important role in the Mesoamerican belief system. So, the Teotihuacan city has many traces of jaguar painting in different parts of the city.

Along the Avenue of the Dead, when walking from the Pyramid of the Sun towards the Pyramid of the Moon, you will find a Jaguar Mural on your right. There is no specific signage as such. But you will probably notice a cluster of people gathered around here. Head in that direction, allow the time for the space to clear and take a step forward. Under a shade and surrounded by walls, there, you will find the mural of jaguar from hundreds of years ago.

Palace of Quetzalpapalotl

The Quetzalpapalotl Complex comprises of the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl and adjacent structures. You will find remains of many murals on the walls of these buildings.

Although much of this complex was destroyed, a lot of field work, maintenance work and restoration work were put in place over the years. Finally, the formal “Conservation Project of the Quetzalpapálotl Architectural Complex” by INAH , done between 2009-2012, brought this complex to how you see it now.

The Palace of the Quetzalpapalotl probably served as the residence for the elites of Teotihuacan. The stone columns that define the building’s central courtyard have carvings of mythological birds like quetzals and owls.

From left: (1) The central courtyard of the Palace of Quetzalapapalotl, (2) Carving of quetzal bird on the pillar of the central courtyard of the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl.

Beatriz de la Fuente Mural Museum

The Painted Walls Museum in Teotihuacan houses several pre-Hispanic murals that were found in the archaeological site of Teotihuacan. It is located about 12 minutes walk or 3 minutes drive away from Gate 3 of the archaeological site.

Mural painting traditions continued for about 700 years in Teotihuacan. As architectural styles, ceramic sequences and technology evolved over the course of time, archaeologists could map a chronology against the different phases of mural techniques in Teotihuacan. Take a walk around the different halls in this mural museum to learn about that chronology, the different techniques and what some of the important murals of those periods signify.

The mural museum is named after Beatriz de la Fuenta, an acclaimed Mexican art historian. She was celebrated for her contribution to research on pre-Hispanic art in the Americas. A small section in the Painted Walls Museum is dedicated to showcase her work that constituted several books and research articles.

Tetitla Compound and Atetelco Compound

The compounds of Tetitla and Atetelco are located a bit far away from the main archaeological site of Teotihuacan. It can take 20-25 minutes to walk to this area from Gate 2. These are residential complexes where ancient Teotihuacan people used to live. Some mural paintings can be found here. Some are about gods and animals representing power, while others are from daily life and warfare activities.

Plan Your Teotihuacan Visit – Where to Start?

There are 3 main gates from where you can start the Teotihuacan archaeological site exploration. The first one is near the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, the second one is near the Pyramid of the Sun and the third one is near the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl.

If you are taking the bus from Mexico City, the bus will probably drop you either near Gate 1 or near Gate 2. Now, depending on which one, you can decide where to start your visit of the Teoihuacan site and what order to follow. Here are our recommendations.

Starting from Gate 1

We started from Gate 1 and this is the route we followed. We found this plan to be optimum for exploring all that Teotihuacan has to offer. For the sake of simplicity of planning, in this article, we named each cluster of structures as First Zone, Second Zone and so on. Hope this helps!

Let’s call this cluster “First Zone” – the Citadel and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl.

If the bus drops you at Gate 1, start with visiting the Citadel and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl. Then walk on the Avenue of the Dead towards the Pyramid of the Sun. But, on the way, you will notice a diversion on the right with a sign “Museo”. Take that road. It will lead you straight to the Teotihuacan Museum. This road to the museum is nicer as it offers some shade of trees. Also, from here you get several different views of the Pyramid of the Sun in the distance.

From left: (1) Indranil taking the road diversion to the Museum – can you spot the small “Museo” sign on the right, near the tree? (2) The view of the Pyramid of the Sun while walking on the road towards the museum.

Second Zone

Let us refer to this cluster as “Second Zone” – the Teotihuacan Museum and the Pyramid of the Sun.

We suggest visiting this museum first because it will give you an elaborate perspective of the history of Teotihuacan civilization – how it started, how it expanded and how it began to fall, and what each of the structures on site signifies. After the Teotihuacan Museum, head to the Pyramid of the Sun. It is right outside when you come out from the museum.

Let us name this cluster as “Third Zone” – the Avenue of the Dead, the Jaguar Mural and the Pyramid of the Moon.

After exploring the Pyramid of the Sun, go back to the Avenue of the Dead and continue walking towards the Pyramid of the Moon. But keep an eye out for the Jaguar Mural – it will be on your right when heading towards the Pyramid of the Moon. Also, take a look at the other smaller pyramids on either side of the road.

Fourth Zone

And our last cluster “Fourth Zone” can be – the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl, the Beatriz de la Fuente Mural Museum and the residential complexes of Atetelco and Tetitla.

Just around the corner of the Pyramid of the Moon is the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl. Take the exit from the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl and walk towards the Beatriz de la Fuente Mural Museum or the Painted Walls Museum. It can be a 10-12 minutes long walk.

From this Painted Walls Museum, it is a little over half an hour’s walk to the residential complexes of Atetelco and Tetitla. We made that long walk under the afternoon sun and reached those complexes, only to find out they were closed for visitors! So, if you plan to visit this area, ask beforehand.

Starting from Gate 2

The disadvantage of starting from Gate 2 is that you would be starting from the middle. So after you explore one side (say left) of the Teotihuacan site, you will need to return to Gate 2 and then explore the other side (say right).

However, we feel it can still be a good idea because if you enter from Gate 2, you can start from visiting Teotihuacan Museum. You will learn about the history right at the beginning! So, it will help you place everything you see next in better perspectives.

So, if you start from Gate 2, head to the Teotihuacan Museum first. Consume as much information as you can. Then start exploring the other structures. Referring to the “Zones” defined in the previous section, this is the Teotihuacan visit plan you can follow: Second Zone – First Zone – Return to Gate 2 – Third Zone – Fourth Zone.

Can You Climb Up the Pyramids at Teotihuacan?

Visiting Teotihuacan to climb to the top of the Pyramid of the Sun was once considered to be one of the best things to do in Mexico City . The view from the top is said to be amazing as you get top view perspective of the sprawling archaeological site of Teotihuacan.

However, I am sorry to break it to you that, as of 2024, climbing is no longer allowed for Pyramid of Sun and Pyramid of Moon. We visited Teotihuacan in October 2022 and access to both these pyramids were closed for climbing.

While it did make me a bit disheartened, it is probably best for the pyramids not to bear the rush of hundreds/thousands of people every day. Also, even without the climbs, visiting Teotihuacan is an amazing experience if history and archaeology spark interest in you.

What to Bring for Your Teotihuacan Visit?

You will be spending hours walking under the sun while visiting Teotihuacan. There are no shades as such. So, prepare accordingly.

• Wear light clothes and comfortable walking shoes .
• Apply sunscreen and re-apply every few hours.
• Bring drinking water – make sure you stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Wear sunglasses and sunhat or cap for protection against the sun.
• Do not forget the photography device of your choice – camera , iPhone or other smartphones .

Interested to know what’s in our camera bag? Check out this article!

Final Thoughts

Teotihuacan archaeological site is worth a visit for its interesting history of days of glory gone by. While you can stay overnight at Teotihuacan, a day trip is sufficient for just exploring the site of the pyramids along with the museums.

Now, visiting Teotihuacan on your own on a day trip from Mexico City is feasible. It just needs a bit of planning and research about the logistics. Hope our article can be the planning aid for your own self-guided visit of Teotihuacan.

If you have questions about visiting Teotihuacan or want to share your experience of this day trip from Mexico City, drop them in the comments below.

Travel Planning Logistics

• Accommodation: For several years now, Booking.com has been our platform of choice for booking accommodation while traveling. You can apply all the desired filters and shortlist the ones that meet your criteria. On continued use, you will keep unlocking their Genius benefits. For long term stays, we use Airbnb . Of late, we have also started browsing Hostelworld for finding hostels.
• Tours: When traveling to new destinations, you can plan ahead and book your activities. Check for highly rated tours on Viator and Get Your Guide .
• Packing: From swimwear to sunscreen, hiking pants to insect repellents, buy your vacation packing essentials on Amazon .
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Discover Teotihuacán

Approximately 30 miles northeast of Mexico City are the ancient city ruins of Teotihuacán.

Like many of the archaeological sites in Mexico, Teotihuacán guards secrets we have yet to unravel. The origins of Teotihuacán are uncertain, although it is thought some of the inhabitants arrived from the Valley of Mexico to the south, refugees from an eruption of the Xitle volcano, which caused major devastation and forced the survivors in the region to seek a new place to settle. Construction of the city probably started in the first two centuries BC, and the civilization reached its high point between 350 and 650 AD.

Scholars in archaeology agree that this is Mexico’s—and perhaps the one of the world’s—most important archaeological sites. It was the largest city in the Americas, and during its heyday around 500 AD, its population was greater than that of Rome at the same time.

One of the greatest mysteries of Teotihuacán is that no one knows where the huge population that lived here eventually ended up. It is as if they vanished without a trace.

This was also a place where human sacrifices were made, often in correlation with astronomical events. When the site was excavated, many tombs were found, some with the remains of what were believed to be people sacrificed to the gods.

Many people today believe that Teotihuacán is a place of great energy, and it is quite common to witness people meditating at the top of main pyramids (The Pyramid of the Sun and The Pyramid of the Moon).

A visit to Teotihuacán is compulsory if you plan to visit Mexico on an archaeological tour; from an historical perspective, it is one of the the most important archaeological places in the world. If you’re in Mexico City or somewhere just north of it, then a visit to see this archaeological site will prove a fascinating and worthwhile experience.

Key Attractions

The original city was about 10 square miles in size; although the ruins only take up about 1 square mile today.

The main avenue, Calzada de los Muertos , (Avenue of the Dead) connects all of the main attractions of this site.

La Ciudadela (The Citadel) is a large square area at the southern end of the site. Inside are various pyramids and structures, with the main feature being the Templo de Quetzalcoatl . The complex was thought to be the residence of Teotihuacan’s main ruler, and also the city’s administrative center.

Mexico has two of the world’s three largest pyramids: The largest is Cheop’s in Egypt; the second largest is the Pyramid of Cholula (see Pictures of Cholula Pyramid ), and the third largest is here in Teotihuacán – Pirámide del Sol – The Pyramid of the Sun. Climb to the top for some great views.

La Pirámide de la Luna (The Pyramid of the Moon) stands on the north end of the site; climbing it will take you nearly to the height of the Pyramid of the Sun, but it’s not the same size—it’s built on higher ground.

There are smaller plazas, courtyards, and other Palaces to experience at this archaeological site. Some of the main features include El Palacio de los Jaguares (Palace of Jaguars), Palacio de Quetzapapalotl (Palace of the Quetza Butterfly) and the Palacio de Tepantitla .

Papantla Flyers – At the entrance to the site on the left hand side, you may see a group of men dressed in traditional Indian costume gathering around a tall pole. These are the Voladores de Papantla ( Papantla Flyers). They climb the pole, and while one sits on the top playing a flute, four others “fly” down the pole in an anti-clockwise direction, supported by a rope connected to their ankle. The spectacle is repeated several times daily and the team passes a hat around for tips afterwards.

Hot Air Baloon Tours – It’s possible to experience Teotihuacán by hot-air baloon; tours run daily, weather permitting.

Getting There & Around

By Air – The closest airport to Teotihuacan is Mexico City. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico .

By Car – Teotihuacan is located about 30 miles northwest of Mexico City. Take Highway 85D northwest out of the city and follow signs to San Juan Teotihuacan. The journey takes about an hour by road. Also see additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

By Bus – Buses make the trip from Mexico City’s north bus terminal to the Pyramids about every 30-60 minutes. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico .

Practical Information

Opening Days & Times: Open 365 days a year, 9 am to 5 pm. (Teotihuacan is one of the country’s very popular sites which do not close on Mondays.) Modest admission charges apply and there are concessions for students, children and seniors.  On Sundays, admission is free for Mexican citizens and foreign residents (with proof of residency).”

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological site. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Mexico Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes with a non-slip sole, strong enough to support your feet and ankles if you plan to climb the pyramids. Dress with light clothes that allow your skin to breathe. Keep yourself hydrated: there are plenty of ambulant vendors selling ice-chilled bottled water in the area. Also see Climate, below.

Get to Teotihuacan Early: This is especially important at weekends as many visitors go to the site then and the single lane road that serves the site gets very full on the way in and then again on the way out at peak times. Try to get to the site by 8 am when the doors open; there is less traffic then and the temperatures are cooler, making an exploration of the site more enjoyable. You will also complete the day’s exploration earlier, and avoid the rush of traffic leaving the site later in the afternoon.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City

Colonial Cities: Queretaro , Cuernavaca , Puebla , Taxco , Morelia

Nearest Beaches/ Resorts: Acapulco

Other Archaeological Sites: Templo Mayor

Local Climate

Teotihuacán is hotter and the sun is significantly more fierce than it is in Mexico City. Be sure to wear light clothes that allow your skin to breathe; take sun screen—you will need it—a hat and sunglasses would be a good idea too. Mosquitoes are not a big nuisance here. Keep drinking water—there are plenty of local vendors selling ice-chilled, purified bottled water.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

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How to Visit Teotihuacan Without a Tour

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The ancient city and pyramids of Teotihuacan is the most popular day trip from Mexico City and a can’t miss attraction for most travelers. Walking through this UNESCO World Heritage Site is like traveling back in time. It’s just 30 miles northeast of the capital and is an awesome day trip to combine with the rest of your stay.

While you can definitely take a tour — there are tons of them — visiting on your own is easy, saves you money, allows you to choose your own schedule, and customize it to your interests. By skipping Teotihuacan tours, we also avoided crowds and skipped over souvenir stops.

In this article, I’ll share how to get there and back on your own plus a bit of Teotihuacan’s history , what to see on site (hint: it’s not just the pyramids!), how to schedule your day, what to eat, and how much to budget for your day.

Update as of November 2022: Visiting Teotihuacan is not the same as it once was. Climbing up the temples is currently prohibited in order to better protect them. If climbing a pyramid is a must-do for you, consider an alternate day trip from Mexican City to Tepoztlan and climb that temple instead. Or, for a bird’s eye view of Teotihuacan, consider a hot air balloon ride which is operating as usual.

How to Get to Teotihuacan by Public Transportation

Teotihuacan hours and admission.

• Teotihuacan's History in a Nutshell

Temple of the Sun

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There are three main ways to get to Teotihuacan: by public bus, Uber, or guided tour. The bus is obviously the cheapest option, costing 106 pesos round-trip per person. It’s also comfortable and easy but takes longer than driving directly.

To take the bus to Teotihuacan, you’ll need to take the Mexico City metro to the Autobuses del Norte station (line 5).  

From the Autobuses del Norte metro stop, follow the signs out of the metro station and across the street to the actual bus station.

Inside the station, head all the way toward the left, to Puerta 8.  

Here, you’ll find a window selling tickets to “Pyramides” (referring to the Mexico City pyramids) or “Zona Arqueologico”.

The first bus to Teotihuacan departs at 6am with more departures about every 20 minutes thereafter until 2pm. I recommend catching an 8am bus — you’ll arrive just in time for the site to open and avoid midday crowds.

Depending on traffic, the ride is about 1 hour each way.  Your outbound ticket will be for a specific, timed departure so don’t miss your bus.  Your return ticket is not for a scheduled time, so you can take any bus back to the city when you’re done.

The round-trip ticket costs 102 pesos per person, or about US$6 as of October 2022.  Bathrooms are available in the station for 6 pesos and there is fast food and luggage storage (30 pesos/bag) also.

Uber is more convenient, but more expensive. It’s hard to provide an exact cost, since it will depend on where you’re staying in the city, whether your car takes the toll road, and how much traffic there is at that exact time (Uber surge pricing is very common in Mexico City). From my Condesa hotel to Gate 2 of Teotihuacan, I was quoted 1175 pesos one-way (absurd!) but only 400 pesos on the way back.

Buses will drop you off at Puerta 1 at Teotihuacan, where you can buy entrance tickets.  As of February 2023, the entrance fee was 85 pesos and includes entry into the museum.  There is an additional charge if you wish to record videos.

If you want to hire a guide (optional), there are several licensed guides near the entrance.  Private guides cost about 850 pesos for a 1.5 hour tour of Sun & Moon Pyramids or 1500 pesos for a 2.5 hour tour that includes more.  Expect to haggle based on length of tour, language, size of group, and the guide’s knowledge.  For a free option, you can read through the Wikipedia guide before you go.

Currently, the park is open daily from 8am to 5pm . It is busiest on Sundays (when Mexicans get in free) and Mondays (when many city museums are closed). If you can, go on a Tuesday through Saturday and arrive right at 9am. This is the #1 most visited attraction in all of Mexico, so it gets crowded!

What to See and How to Visit Teotihuacan Without a Guide

To avoid crowds, I recommend arriving before 10am to have some breathing room before hoards of Teotihuacan tours arrive. Most visitors need about four hours to see the highlights; history buffs should plan on staying all day for a more in-depth look. The ancient city was arranged in a grid that still makes navigating today, but it covers about eight square miles so it’ll take you some time to see it all!

You’ll want to sightsee the Temple of the Sun first when it’s least busy. Then head down the spookily named Calle de los Muertos , or Avenue of the Dead which routes through the city center. It passes by numerous minor temples and other sites, eventually reaching the Pyramid of the Moon. Afterward, head back to the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl. I recommend saving the museum for last — if you start your visit early in the morning, you’ll hit the indoor museum midday when everything is at it’s hottest.

For the sake of clarity: you should know that Teotihuacan refers to the entire ancient city (and today’s complete archaeological site), although most visitors focus on seeing the two main Mexico City pyramids.

Teotihuacan’s History in a Nutshell

Although civilization at Teotihuacan traces back to 300 BCE, the city was at its peak between roughly 450-550 CE. At that time, it’s population is estimated to be 125,000 (and perhaps as many as 200,000!), making it the largest city in pre-Columbian America and the sixth-largest city in the world . Its influence in Mesoamerica as a civilization is well-documented through artifacts all over Mexico.

Contrary to popular belief, Teotihuacan is not an Aztec site; evidence supports that it was either Nahua, Otomi or Totonac, or perhaps even multi-ethnic.

The exact reason for the fall of Teotihuacan is unknown, but theories include internal unrest and uprisings, outside raiders, and severe drought. Whether or not this was the cause for its entire fall, there is definite evidence of deliberate fires, smashed artwork, and destructive chaos.

Make your first stop the Temple of the Sun   so you can climb all 248 steep steps before it gets too hot out (update: this isn’t possible anymore but it still gets busy).

Researchers believe a temple may have once topped the structure, but little is known about its intended purpose. Whatever the case, it was likely used for many rituals, as several masks, bones, figurines, and obsidian artifacts have been found in and around the stones.

This extraordinary monument is not only the largest pyramid in the Americas, but the third largest worldwide.

This 150-foot pyramid lies on the northern end of the site and was previously used for both human and animal sacrifices to the gods. There are twelve smaller platforms in front of the pyramid where residents would’ve stood to witness the rituals; standing here gave me a chill.

The Pyramid of the Moon   was my favorite part of Teotihuacan, perhaps because you’re looking at the entire site.

At first glance, this looks like just another miniature pyramid, but when you get closer you’ll notice numerous carved serpent heads along the eastern side. This one is worth exploring from ground level to see the carvings.

The Palace of Quetzlpapalotl doesn’t look like anywhere else in the city. It has ornately carved pillars, obsidian inlays, beautiful murals, and a gorgeous courtyard.  Many of the colors have been preserved; others re-touched.

The palace is located in La Ciudadela , a seventeen acre courtyard that appeared to have housed the city’s ruling elite.

The museum is primarily geared toward Spanish speakers and is skippable if you’re short on time.

The Best Teotihuacan Tours

There’s no doubt a guide and group make things easier and give you more historical context during your visit.

If visiting independently sounds like too much work, the best Teotihuacan tours include this early-morning visit with an archaeologist  to beat the crowds.  

If you’re not an early bird, try “ Hidden Teotihuacan “ , a small group outing that includes dinner in a local home.

Tons of vendors sell arts, crafts, trinkets, and other souvenirs both in and out of the official site boundaries. They all have basically the same items, so don’t worry about “missing” something. Since everyone has basically the same products, don’t be afraid to walk away until you get a price you’re happy with.

Please be aware that recent visitors have noted that vendors have been more aggressive lately due to the lack of visitors. You will likely be asked over and over to have a look as their livelihood depends on it.

PRO TIP: Save all your shopping for the end of your visit so you don’t have to carry any new gifts with you as you climb up and down the pyramids.

The fact that you can leave the site for lunch and re-enter with your ticket isn’t widely advertised.  There are some street food options outside Gate 2 (across from Pyramid of the Sun) and one really unique restaurant outside Gate 5. La Gruta is a restaurant inside a cave, providing an atmosphere different from anywhere I’ve eaten before!  The food is average, but the setting is unbeatable.

If you speak Spanish, you can check out the menu ahead of time.  It’s not cheap — expect entree prices around US$12 — but it’s not outrageously priced either.

To get there, head behind the Pyramid of the Sun, following signs to the museum. This will lead you to Gate/Puerta 5. Exit through the gate and take a left. Shortly thereafter, take a right onto a side street and you’ll see black signs pointing you down the long driveway to the restaurant. This will take you 5 minutes maximum.

When you’re done exploring, exit the ruins at Puerta/Gate 2 and walk through the parking lot to the main road (pickup is also available at Gate 1 & 3).  The bus will pick you up at that main intersection, on the far side of the road.  You shouldn’t have to wait more than 20 minutes.  If you didn’t originally buy a round-trip ticket, you can pay when you board.

The site closes at 5pm but there are buses until 6pm or later.  The ride back takes slightly longer due to the routing, but it’s still easy.

The final stop is back at the bus station where you started, or you can get off at Indios Verdes and take the metro from there.  Indios Verdes is a busy, overwhelming station so skip it if you’re not used to Latin American travel!

I re-visited Teotihuacan in 2020 to check out the Teotihuacan Nocturno experience, which includes nighttime entry to see the pyramids lit up. It ends with a light and sound show projected on the Pyramid of the Sun. It’s an entirely different experience (and requires separate admission to a daytime visit) but it can be a great supplement or even substitution.

If that sounds interesting to you, check out my full review of Teotihuacan at night .

Do you need a hotel in Mexico City? I don’t recommend staying by Teotihuacan — there’s nothing there, except the site itself.  Instead, check out my Mexico City neighborhood guide and hotel recommendations  ( opens in a new window ). Have more time?  Check out some of the other activities I liked in Mexico City   to plan the rest of your trip.

Good walking shoes: You’ll cover quite a bit of ground as you walk between the Mexico City pyramids (and up and down the steep stairs!). The Avenue of the Dead is two miles long if you walk it in entirety.

Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat: There’s essentially no shade on-site.

Drinking water: Bottled water is sold outside park gates, but I recommend bringing your own reusable bottle and a water filter because it’s better for the environment.

A small day bag: Choose a backpack so you’re hands-free for easier climbing. This is my favorite lightweight backpack . Please keep a close eye on your bag while you’re on the metro; my sister lost her wallet in Mexico City !

7am-7:30am Leave Your Hotel: You’ll need time to take the subway or taxi to the bus station. From most hotels, this takes 15-20 minutes.

7:30am-9am: Buy bus tickets when you arrive. Grab a coffee and breakfast to-go at the station, use the restroom if you need to, and board an 8am bus which will take about an hour.

9am-1pm: Visit Teotihuacan, starting with the Pyramid of the Sun before it gets too hot or crowded.

1pm-2:30pm: Have lunch at La Gruta, the cave restaurant.

2:30pm-4pm: Depart on a bus around 2:30pm, which will take about an hour to get back to the station and then another 15-20 minutes back to your hotel.

Teotihuacán is an essential part of ancient Mexico and its heritage and no trip to central Mexico would be complete without seeing this megalithic masterpiece!

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Thank you, awesome instructions!

Note at the entrance to park it says open from 7am everyday. A few TripAdvisor posts have also Commented on this. We only arrived after 9am though so can’t verify.

Please note you can get bus back to Bus Norte from Gate 1.

As some suggested, we got off at Deportivo 18 de Mars to change to metro / save back tracking from Bus Norte.

Our tour was 850 for Sun & Moon pyramid (1,5hrs) or 1500 for additional temple (2.5hrs)

@Vera, Great info, thank you!

Becky, you rocked my world. Thank you! This was incredibly helpful!! You are the bees knees

We were a little intimidated to visit the pyramids from Mexico City on our own. So we followed your article to a tee on our day trip to the pyramids. It was so simple, straightforward, and approachable. Thank you THANK YOU for this piece! We also loved the Pyramid of the Moon (and its view) best.

Thank you so much this was gold! We spent our entire day and would have liked to stay even longer. For future visitors: Really do put sunscreen, I got burned badly… Also, bring water and snacks.

Just want to say THANK YOU !!! Your information was extremely helpful. If I may add, my wife and I found a shuttle service to Teotihuacan close to our hotel in Reforma avenue called BlueBus. 25 bucks per person, and they do have different departure times. So that’s another way to get there. Hope to read your notes about other sites in other countries !

@Alex, Great news — sounds like a wonderful option.

I could not find any information on this shuttle

Thanks for the mention @Alex!

BlueBus is a new service going from Reforma non-stop to the Pyramids in Teotihuacan.

Thank you so much for this information! My mum and I went to Teotihuacan today and followed your directions for the bus. We took an Uber to and from the bus station, and the whole thing was SO EASY (and cheap, and fast…). Knowing that other tourists had done it recently made us feel more confident.

We found that the bus can drop you at gates 1, 2, or 3; as well as pick ups from the same. For those planning a trip – Gate 1 is good if you want to go to the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, and Gate 2 takes you straight to the Pyramid of the Sun. We did a lot of unnecessary walking (good exercise, though!) that we could have avoided if we had planned a bit better 🙂

Helpful article, thank you! I would add that for folks coming to the bus station via Uber: *walk-in entrence and go left to the Teotihuacan bus counter at the northen most ticket counter, yes #8, but the numbers are blue.

*There are at least 3 (that we found) baggage holding locations. Cheap. 30pesos for a carry on size bag.

*There is not a bathroom on the bus I am currently sitting on. Bus has no air-conditioning and while not bad, is not nice. I would be careful about the heat on a bus like this in summer / hot weather. We are here in mid Feb and it is over 80°f.

USE THE BATHROOM BEFORE GOING THRU THE SECURITY AREA

@Tim, Great follow-up, thank you!

Thanks Becky. This is a very details and useful info to utilize as guide when I visit Mexico City again. ???

Thanks a lot Becky for your detailed description. We found everything right at place as you’ve described in your article. We’ve visited the Pyramid of the Sun today and thanks to you, the trip went smoothly.

This is super helpful, and now I am confident I can get there via this method.

Since an early start is recommended, how long does it take to get to the bus station in rush hour, especially if taking an Uber?

@Kayla, Mexico City is HUGE so it will depend on your precise starting location. You can use Google Maps to estimate drive time but from my favorite neighborhood of Condesa it’s 15-20 minutes.

I’ll be in Roma, so that’s not as long as I would expect it to take… thank you!

Hi Becky, thanks for very helpful guideline. I did this trip yesterday (Saturday) based on your article and ablosutely no problem. I didn’t manage to leave early and only took 10:30am bus. By around 12 I was on the spot. There was only a bit “people jam” on the stairs up to the Temple of the Sun, otherwise ok.

Is there a way to buy an entrance ticket to the site in advance? I was looking online and couldn’t find anything.

@Adyul, Not that I know of (other than buying a group tour where the guide takes care of it for you). There shouldn’t be much of a line if you’re there in the morning.

Thanks so much! Going there tomorrow

We did this last week and it was seamless! We took a 10am-ish bus there. When we got to the site, they didn’t make us pay for a photo permit, so I am not sure if we got lucky or they did away with this.

The last bus to leave the site is at 6pm if anyone else tries this (at least that’s what the driver said).

Thanks so much!! The photos really helped!

This blog was wonderful and EXACTLY what we needed to know! I hope to read more by you while here in CDMX.

My daughter and her group of Girl Scouts will be in Mexico City at the end of June. They are 14 and 15 years old, and there will be about 9 of them with 3 adults. Is it safe to travel on the metro/subway? I’ve read conflicting things about it. Thank you!

@Heidi, It’s safe in that I certainly wouldn’t expect any violent crime. However, groups in general are often targets for pickpockets because everyone’s distracted talking to each other, etc. Make sure they keep an eye on their things.

(With a group that large, I might look into the cost of chartering a 12-passenger van/minibus. It might be more affordable per person than you think and then it would run directly from the hotel on whatever schedule they like).

Can anyone help me understand why the need for bag lockers? Am i not allowed to carry a bag on site? For water, snacks, etc.

@Blanca, Yes, you can bring a day bag with water, sunscreen, etc. Some people OPTIONALLY choose to use bag lockers, for example if they are visiting on their way to/from the airport

An excellent Well written article. Nothing has been missed , thanks

Directions were perfect! Thank-you!!!

Thank you for making our trip out to the pyramids so easy! You’re a star.

Nice article, thanks. How have things changed in times of Covid? Looking at the Teotihuacan web site, it seems much is closed, hours are restricted, and there’s a limit on the number of visitors each day. Any updated guidance?

@Andy, I haven’t personally been to Mexico City since pre-covid (February 2020) so I don’t have any first-hand experience. Also, the guidelines change every 2-3 months and are subject to change again in the future at any time. Right now, you can’t get anywhere close to the pyramids so I wouldn’t bother making the trip out there. Hopefully you’ll get a chance to return to CDMX another time in the future.

I agree with you Becky, the site is not worth the visit with current restrictions in place. Effectively, you are just making a big trip to walk through a long hot market, being hassled by vendors constantly. This was my least enjoyable archaeological visits in over a dozen. My advice is go to the National Museum of Anthropology in the city. So full of artefacts, recreations and information is at least partly in English. The Zoo and huge free park are just over the road. A much better use of time.

Hi Becky, I first want to say thank you for this blog. Very helpful! I next want to mention, as Mexican-American woman, I please ask that you edit out the part where you say “you can bargain” for a better price, and instead encourage people to buy from the vendors. I understand the struggle and suffrage my people have to make for basic living, and if many United States Americans or western people can afford the already extremely low-price souvenirs, don’t be cheap or insensitive. Just buy the souvenir without giving the poor people who are struggling to make, not even a basic living wage, a hard time. Thanks!

Absurd. I’m not going to pay 50 usd for some crappy Chinese made trinket. You absolutely have the right to negotiate in these situations where you’re viewed as a walking atm.

Can you buy tickets at Gate 2?

@Sophia, As of February 2020 you could but I have not been back recently (due to covid). I assume all gates are still open for ticket purchases.

Excellent article! It really helps!! One question, perhaps anyone can answer who knows

How to get to La Gruta restaurant from the Teotihuacan site? Do we need to hail a taxi or simply walk to it? How far is it from the site?

@Gerry, La Gruta is less than a 5-minute walk from “Gate 5” of Teotihuacan. This is the gate near the Teotihuacan museum. When you are done with lunch, you can either re-enter the archaeological site to see anything you miss, or walk to gate 2/3 (about a 20 minute walk) to get a bus back downtown, or hail a taxi/Uber right from the restaurant to go back to the city.

Thank you for these great instructions on buying bus tickets. I really didn’t want to be stuck on a formal tour.

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Pyramid of the Sun

Before the Spaniards invaded Mexico, the land was a civilization that had been bred for thousands of years, and Olmec, Maya, Teotivacan, Toltec, and Aztec, located near Mexico City, were among them. The Teotivacan civilization began around 200 BC, and is located about the present-day central Mexico, an ancient Indian civilization that existed at the same time as the Mayan civilization. The Teotihuacans built a city of about 50,000 people between the CE and 150 years, making it the earliest urban hierarchy in the entire Americas, and also built many pyramids. Today Teotihuacan is 50 kilometers from Mexico City, about an hour's drive away, and contains some of the largest pyramid structures built in the pre-Columbus Americas - the Pyramid of the Sun, built around the 2nd century AD, the third largest pyramid in the world. The square tower is 225 meters × 222 meters in size, and the 5-story tower is 63 meters in height. The east of the Sun Pyramid, the north is the Moon Pyramid, which is built about 200 years later than the Sun Pyramid. The tower is 150 meters × 120 meters in size, and the 4-story tower is 46 meters high and the volume is 380,000 cubic meters. There are also many small pyramids around, symbolizing the stars. Throughout the complex is the Death Road, which is also the essence of Mexican culture. Unlike the Egyptian pyramids, Teotihuacan is not a pharaoh’s tomb, but a city, thought to have been founded around 100 BC, and during its heyday Teotihuacan was the largest city in the Americas during the pre-Columbus period. The Sun Pyramid and the Moon Pyramid are places of sacrifice. I didn't follow the group and called a car directly on uber. From the reforma, 1 hour 799peso, and then let the driver pick it up 2 hours later. Entering the scenic spot, I found a tour guide to explain, generously gave 600 pesos, in addition to introducing the pyramid, but also talked about many local cultures and Spanish cultural conflicts and integration. The biggest benefits: free, no need to wait, high efficiency tips: 1. Mexico's network is not developed, the speed of Mexico City is very bad, it is recommended to download the offline map first. 2. The locals can't speak English, download the translation software first, I will use google translate to communicate with the driver. 3. There is no rental near the pyramid. If the bus arrives at Gate 1 and the return journey is at Gate 2. 4. Uber can't connect. If you rent, you can only find a security or a tour guide. The price is 1500peso. The friend who is going to call must talk to the driver and arrange to return to the city.

Pyramid of the Sun Tours

Pyramid of the Sun Highlights: Must-See Features and Attractions

Explore near pyramid of the sun: where to stay, eat, and visit, pyramid of the sun reviews: insider insights and visitor experiences.

There is no doubt this is a magical place, so full of connotations and certain charm. You can immerse yourself in the culture of De Presparnico and learn about all the wonders of ancient civilizations. It is absolutely not to be missed in Mexico City, so do do your best to visit.

The city of Mexico has huge buildings, temples and beautiful murals, most prominent is the pyramid of the sun and the pyramid of the moon. The Sun Pyramid is on the east side of the middle section of the "Road to the Dead". It is the tallest building in ancient Mexico, close to a huge square, stacked with ladder-like ladders and built very steep steps directly in front of it, and a temple of sacrifices to the gods was built at the top.

Went in early June 2016. There are very few Chinese compatriots who come here to visit, and it is easy to recruit people to take photos:) In the afternoon, remember to do a good job in sun protection. The sun and moon pyramids can be climbed, some are steep, and the photos are beautiful after climbing up. There are many local souvenir gadgets sold in attractions. Remember to bargain (6-7 discount), it is still worth buying, cheaper than the store.

Large scale, spectacular and well preserved, worth a visit

The Sun and Moon Pyramid on the outskirts of Mexico City is the third largest pyramid in the world. It is also a place where Mexico must travel. The traffic is quite convenient. There is no problem going back and forth from the Mexican city area for a day. Climbing the top of the pyramid is still very difficult and very steep. But the view on the top is very good!

To receive tourists to the famous sun and moon pyramid in Mocheng, tourists first landing in the new year! Starting a year of good luck ⛱️ [Attractions Introduction] The Sun Pyramid is the largest building at the ancient site of Teotihuakan. It is a place where the ancient Indians sacrificed the Sun God. Compared with the Moon Pyramid, the Sun Pyramid is more difficult to climb. Basically, it is panting at the top. A sweat. Of course, the sun temple that once stood at the top has long disappeared, and there is only a flat land. [Warm reminder] The Sun and Moon Pyramid is nearly 50 kilometers northeast of Mexico City. Tourists who want to take the pyramid to see the pyramid must leave at five o'clock in the morning! An hour's drive, professional staff are ready, take off at 7:00 ️, overlooking the city of the gods, very shocking! The sunshine in the scenic spot is strong, bring sunscreen! More Mexico and Central and South America play needs welcome to consult me! Thank you

Frequently Asked Questions About Pyramid of the Sun

What's the address of pyramid of the sun.

Preston_Dominguez : 55800 San Juan Teotihuacán, State of Mexico

What's the recommended attractions near Pyramid of the Sun?

Jeremy_Dodson : I recommended Pyramid of the Sun,Pyramid of the Moon,la Calzada de los Muertos,,El Museo del Sitio de la Cultura Teotihuacana

What hotels are near Pyramid of the Sun?

Messiah_Dillon : Here are some hotels near Pyramid of the Sun: Hotel Quinto Sol,Hotel Quetzalcalli,Villas Teotihuacan Hotel & Spa,Telpochcalli Hotel & Temazcal,Hotel Boutique Yaocalli

What restaurants are near Pyramid of the Sun?

Judah_Dillard : You could try La Gruta,Dinner in the Sky Mexico,Gran Teocalli,Snacks Mariscos,Villas Archeologicas

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9 of the Best Pyramids to Visit in Mexico

Mexico is home to some truly amazing archeological sites — here are nine pyramids to plan your next trip around.

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The world is full of ancient wonders — so many that you could spend a lifetime trying to visit them all. But you don’t have to travel far to see some of the best architectural and cultural marvels humans have created. You only need to head south to Mexico to explore its vast, incredible world of ancient civilizations and their pyramids.

You’ve likely heard of the Maya people, who ruled (and still live) in southern Mexico and Central America. You might have also heard of the Aztecs, whose great capital city was the foundation for what is Mexico City today. Their iconic cities like Chichén Itzá and Tenochtitlan are among the most famous attractions in Mexico. But Mexico has been home to so many other Indigenous civilizations, and all left an indelible mark on the archaeological and cultural history of the country. Today, Mexico is home to more than 16 million Indigenous people represented across 68 ethnolinguistic groups. All of these groups have made an impact on modern-day Mexico, but the pyramids in particular are extremely impressive.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Edwin Barnhart is the director of the Maya Exploration Center. He received a Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin Anthropology Department in 2001 and has over 30 years of experience as an archeologist. 

"The Maya and the Aztecs are the two most people know about, but you can't ignore all these other wonderful cultures that existed and also built pyramids, some of which were the foundation of what the Maya did," said Dr. Edwin Barnhart, director of the Maya Exploration Center.

The Olmec culture is considered in many ways to be the "mother culture" of Mesoamerica. The Olmec civilization lasted from around 1200 B.C.E. to around 400 B.C.E., and they were the ones to build the first big cities. As early as 1500 B.C.E., the Maya had settled in villages around Mesoamerica. The Classic Period of the Maya civilization lasted from about 250 C.E. until about 900 C.E. The Zapotec civilization had its empire between 700 B.C.E. and 1521 C.E., and Zapotec people still live primarily in and around the state of Oaxaca. 

El Castillo, Chichén Itzá, Yucatán

Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

Let's start with perhaps the most famous pyramid in Mexico: El Castillo in Chichén Itzá. Chichén Itzá is one of the most famous Maya cities in the world, and at its center is the spectacular nine-stepped pyramid, El Castillo. A feat of engineering and an astronomical marvel, the pyramid was designed so that each year on the equinoxes, the sunlight would create the shadowy illusion of a snake descending each of the pyramid's steps. The equinoxes are the most popular times to visit Chichén Itzá, so expect huge crowds and a very enthusiastic atmosphere. 

How to Visit: The roads to Chichén Itzá are very well-maintained. Most tourists come on a day trip from Cancún or the Riviera Maya, and many tour companies offer round-trip transportation and guided tours. You can also drive yourself, as the roads are safe and well-marked.

Temple of the Inscriptions, Palenque, Chiapas

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One of the lesser-visited archaeological sites in Mexico is the city of Palenque, buried deep in the thick jungles of the southern state of Chiapas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is what remains of a stunning Maya city, which peaked between 500 and 700 C.E. One of the most important Maya cities, Palenque's most famous temple is the Temple of the Inscriptions, a massive stone temple known for its hieroglyphs. 

"The Temple of the Inscriptions was one of the only Maya temples that was built to house a tomb, the tomb of Pakal [Palenque's most famous ruler]," said Barnhart. "His pyramid had this amazing 20-ton sarcophagus with images of him falling into the underworld on the top. His body was covered with jewelry and gifts, and it was one of the first discoveries that told us that the Maya had these treasures."

How to Visit: Most visitors come as backpackers via the ADO bus system, which has a broad network throughout Southern Mexico. Now, however, with the launch of the Tren Maya , it's getting easier for visitors to access, particularly as there is a train stop in Palenque.

Related: 10 Hidden Natural Wonders in Mexico When You Want to Avoid the Crowds

Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon, Teotihuacán, State of Mexico

Taking a quick trip away from the Maya world and up to the Valley of Mexico puts us in the heart of Teotihuacán. No one knows for sure who built Teotihuacán, as it shows evidence of Toltec, Totonac, Maya, Mixtec, and Zapotec cultures. One of the largest ancient cities in the Americas, it was built about 1,000 years before the arrival of the Aztecs. Today it is most famous for its two main pyramids: the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. 

How to Visit: Teotihuacán is about an hour from Mexico City and makes a popular day trip for visitors. It’s best visited as part of a tour so you can have the expertise of a guide.

Great Pyramid of Cholula, Cholula, Puebla

While you're visiting Mexico City, you may want to take the two-hour trip out to the “magical town” of Cholula, a suburb of Puebla. This beautiful, historic city is most famous for the canary-yellow church that sits atop a hill. Except, it's not a hill at all; the church is sitting on top of the largest pyramid in the world.

A clear example of colonialism, the Spanish built their Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios on top of the pyramid, and the church still stands today. But what remains of the pyramid is the monumental mound that alludes to its great size and power.  The temple was built between the 3rd century B.C.E. through the 9th century C.E., and dedicated to the Aztec god, Quetzalcoatl. Its base is 984 by 1,033 feet, with a height of 82 feet — making it the largest in the world by volume, even larger than the Great Pyramid in Giza.

How to Visit: Cholula is just outside the main city of Puebla and is easily reached by car.

Related: 10 Small Towns in Mexico for Natural Beauty, Arts, Culture, and Tequila

Pyramid of the Magician, Uxmal, Yucatán

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The Maya people never had one central capital. Instead, they operated with autonomous city-states. One of their “capitals” was the city of Uxmal, located outside modern-day Mérida, and its most famous pyramid is the Pyramid of the Magician.

"The site at Uxmal was at its height for only 150 years," said Barnhart, “and it has a different look. It does not have those terraces going up the sides. It's got a smooth outside that goes up to a superstructure, and its sides are curving. It's like the design of a common Maya house in the Yucatán."

Legends swirl around the creation of the pyramid, including one that says the structure was built in a single night by a magical man, born from an egg to a witch. He constructed the pyramid in one night to challenge the current king and became king of Uxmal himself, hence the name “Pyramid of the Magician.” (Of course, as is the case with many legends, the specifics depend on who is telling the story.) 

How to Visit: Uxmal is a day trip from Mérida . Several tour companies offer guided tours, or you can take a taxi or drive yourself an hour to the archaeological zone.

Structure 2, Calakmul, Campeche

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One of the most impressive and important Maya sites is also among the least visited. That site is Calakmul — a rival to the massive city of Tikal in Guatemala — shrouded by the thick jungles of the state of Campeche within the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Calakmul was a hugely important city for more than 1,200 years. Excavations have revealed gorgeous stucco friezes and mural paintings, as well as burial chambers for kings and nobility. Structure 2 at Calakmul is one of the tallest Maya pyramids in the world, standing at 148 feet. Four tombs have been located within the pyramid, as well. 

How to Visit: Calakmul is more challenging to visit, but not impossible. It requires a drive through southern Yucatán, so you will need to either rent a car or hire a guide to take you.

Related: Why Your Next Trip to Mexico Should Go Beyond the Obvious Hot Spots

El Torre, Ek Balam, Yucatán

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On the way to Chichén Itzá is another lesser-known Maya site called Ek Balam. This Maya city, just outside of the modern-day Spanish-influenced city of Valladolid, was at its height between 700 and 1000 C.E., though it operated for more than 1,000 years. Only the center of Ek Balam has been excavated, with 45 structures mapped out. 

El Torre, also known as The Tower, is one of the largest Maya structures in the region, measuring more than 500 feet long, 200 feet wide, and 100 feet tall. Its inscriptions are not carved into the rock like other pyramids. Instead, the creators used stucco and limestone to shape beautiful imagery. El Torre also houses the tomb of Ukit Kan Lek Tok, one of the rulers of the city.

"The Tower is one of the few you can still climb, but its real claim to fame is the stucco facade about halfway up the pyramid. It's called the 'White Reading House' based on the hieroglyphs, and archaeologists think it was a royal library. The doorway is carved like the mouth of a monster, with a lower jaw with teeth and an upper jaw. In the eyes are sitting full human figures, called the Ek Balam Angels. It's probably one of the best pieces of Maya art in the entire world," said Barnhart.

How to Visit: Ek Balam is about two hours from the Riviera Maya, and about 25 miles north of Valladolid. It is becoming more popular with tour groups, but visitors can also drive themselves.

Pyramids at Monte Albán, Oaxaca, Oaxaca

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Up in the hills about 10 minutes from downtown Oaxaca is one of the most beautiful archaeological sites in Mexico. Monte Albán was inhabited for more than 15 centuries by various Indigenous groups, including the Olmecs, Zapotecs, and Mixtecs, and for 1,300 years, Monte Albán was the capital of the Zapotec world. These groups built impressive terraces, dams, canals, and pyramids, many of which still exist today. 

Within the complex are many different pyramids, which today look like raised platforms topped by temples. The beauty of Monte Albán is the many different structures that visitors can wander around, walking in the footsteps of the remarkable people who lived here centuries ago. Surrounding Monte Albán are gorgeous views of the mountains and Oaxaca city below.

How to Visit: Monte Albán is easy to reach from Oaxaca by bus or taxi.

Related: A Guide to the Ancient and New Wonders of the World

Pyramid of the Niches, El Tajín, Veracruz

One of the most unique and breathtaking archaeological sites in Mexico is the site of El Tajín, located in Veracruz. Its creators are still unknown, but experts theorize it was built by the Totonac and Huastec Indigenous peoples. Eventually, the Aztecs took control of the region around 1200 C.E.

The Pyramid of the Niches, though short in stature, is a true work of art. It is made up of six platforms, each one marked with niches that were likely used like a calendar. 

How to Visit: The site of El Tajín is remote. The closest city is Veracruz along the Gulf Coast. From there, it is a four-hour drive to the archaeological site. Tour operators offer full-day trips to the ruins.

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Ecatepec-Piramides Km. 22.600, Teotihuacan, Teotihuacan , Edo. Mex.. 55800.

The most important structure within the archaeological site of Teotihuacan is undoubtedly the imposing Pyramid of the Sun (La Pirámide del Sol).

On one side and approximately in the center of the Avenue of the Dead, stands this ancient pr-Hispanic building nearly 63 meters tall.

An interesting but unknown fact to visitors, is that under this giant pyramid is a tunnel that leads to a room located right in the center of the structure.

It contains four small irregular caverns that possibly had some religious purpose in ancient times. Unfortunately there is no public access to this corridor but now one can see a small metal door attached to the front of the structure.

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Why the Great Pyramid of Giza remain one of the world’s most mysterious sites

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS , EGYPT / Created : Sep 4, 2024, 19:06 IST

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The Great Pyramid of Giza, located near Cairo, is the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. Built between 2700 BC and 2500 BC for Pharaoh Khufu, it stands as a marvel of ancient engineering. The methods used in its construct … Read more

The Great Pyramid of Giza, located near Cairo, is the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. Built between 2700 BC and 2500 BC for Pharaoh Khufu, it stands as a marvel of ancient engineering. The methods used in its construction remain a topic of debate among scholars and engineers. Read less

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The Great Pyramid of Giza, located near Cairo, is the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. Built between 2700 BC and 2500 BC for Pharaoh Khufu, it stands as a marvel of ancient engineering. The...