As one of the world’s largest ancient cities, Mexico‘s Teotihuacan represents the grandest moment of the Mesoamerican era.
Though the reason behind Teotihuacan’s collapse is still a mystery, its culture, urban design and artistic influence has extended to other regions and beyond. Visiting Teotihuacan is something you have to do at least once in your life.
Its two major pyramids, the Pirámide del Sol (Pyramid of the Sun) and the Pirámide de la Luna (Pyramid of the Moon), draw large crowds. Climbing them is no longer allowed, so you take them in from the Avenue of the Dead and the plazas at their base.
Tips for Visiting Teotihuacan
When to Visit Teotihuacan
Many tour buses arrive at Teotihuacan around 10:00 am, so try to explore the site earlier in the morning to beat the crowd.
How to Get to Teotihuacan
Buses are the most popular and cost-effective mode of transport in Mexico. Taking the bus to Teotihuacan from Mexico City on your own is substantially cheaper than traveling on a commercial tour. A one-way bus ticket costs roughly 55 to 65 pesos (check current fares at the terminal), while organized day tours cost several times more. A huge advantage of taking the bus both ways is that you can explore Teotihuacan at your own leisure.
From Mexico City, take metro line 5 (the yellow line) to the Autobuses Del Norte station. Upon arriving, walk to the left end of the terminal and purchase your ticket at gate 8. Please be sure the bus is heading to “Pirámides” instead of “San Juan” by reading the front board of the bus. When return to Mexico City, head over to exit 2 and take the bus across the street. The typical travel time from Mexico City to Teotihuacan is an hour.
Check out some of the below organised tours to Teotihuacan:
Where to Stay When Visiting Teotihuacan
At the end of the Avenue of the Dead, Villas Teotihuacan Hotel is a convenient base for hiking and walking activities around the pyramids. Both the Teotihuacan Archeological Site and a botanical garden are within 10 minutes walking distance. Staff of the hotel can help you to arrange a hot air balloon tour. In the early morning, you can walk to the ruins, watch the sunrise over both pyramids, and experience the Avenue of the Dead deserted. Check current rates when you book.
Where to Eat and Drink Near Teotihuacan
La Gruta is a cave restaurant frequented by visitors. Look for a natural cave close to the pyramids and you will see the restaurant’s sign. The most famous dishes of La Gruta are meat platas and a cactus dish. Several food stalls around the Pyramids of the Sun sell sandwiches, bread rolls, snacks, and drinks.
Other Attractions Near Teotihuacan
Located further down the Avenue of the Dead, the Quetzalcoatl Palace is where Teotihuacan’s main ruler resided. The complex is thought to have served as an administrative center of the ancient city.
To the south of the Pyramids of the Sun, the Museum of Teotihuacan Culture features statues, bones, and shells made by the inhabitants of the ancient Teotihuacan city. Part of this museum also showcases the archeological details of Teotihuacan. It is a great place for visitors to get a grasp of Mesoamerican culture.
Teotihuacan Botanical Garden is across the street from the entrance to the Pyramids of the Sun.
Visiting Teotihuacan: Know Before You Go
Teotihuacan is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with last entry around 4:00 pm. Entry costs about 210 pesos for international visitors and 105 pesos at the domestic rate, so check current fees with INAH before you go.
Teotihuacan offers free admission to Mexicans and expats (who live in Mexico) on Sundays.
Bring a thin jacket, umbrella, and sun block. Get enough water and food prior to entering the archeological zone, as it is difficult to find any shops and restaurants inside.
Please note the altitude of Teotihuacan is 7,500 feet. If you arrive from sea level, be sure to allot yourself two to three days to acclimatize before a long day of walking at the site.
