Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan, also known as the City of the Gods, was the largest city in Pre-Columbian America. It is now an archeological site 40 km (25 mi) northeast of Mexico City, home to some of the largest ancient pyramids in the world. Náhuatl for "the place where men became gods", the Aztecs believed it was here where the gods gathered to plan the creation of man. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. == Understand == Teotihuacan at its height was the largest Mesoamerican city, reaching a total population of 150,000 around the same time as the Roman Empire and Classical China. Archaeologists disagree on whether it was the capital of an empire, or a city-state at the center of Mesoamerica's trade networks, but its cultural influence is seen across the region. Today, its ancient ceremonial center stands as an impressively grand and well-preserved architectural zone, and in the smaller temples around the side (including some with free entry outside of the main park) can be seen many beautiful and interesting original wall paintings from the city's heyday. Many artifacts from Teotihuacan are now found at the National Anthropological Museum in Mexico City. Elevation: 2,300m/7,482ft === History === Construction of Teotihuacán commenced around 200 BC, as local farmers began coalescing around nearby springs. Beginning in the first century AD, the city grew explosively, leading to the construction of much of the monumental architecture and sculpture, including the largest pyramids. It became a multicultural city, with neighborhoods of people from all across Mesoamerica. Obsidian was the main source of wealth, and its processing was the most important industry. The nearby mines were the only source in the region, so when the city seized control of them, they profited from the monopoly. Between 650 and 750 AD, Teotihuacan entered a phase of terminal decline. The city's elite housing compounds bear burn marks, suggesting civil strife. There was also disruption in tributary relations, increased social stratification, and power struggles between the ruling and intermediary elites. Teotihuacan continued to be inhabited, though it never reached its previous levels of population. When early Aztecs arrived around 1300, Teotihuacan was already a sparsely-populated ancient ruin. Like the other peoples in the area, they were captivated by what the ancients had built. As they ascended in power to dominate the region, the city became a central spiritual and religious destination for the people of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan (present-day Mexico City). The names used around the site are generally those given by the Aztecs, as no records exist of the original languages. === Architecture === In Mesoamerican cosmology, the sky was the realm of the gods. Temples were built as tall and high up as was practical, to be as close as possible to the gods. The "pyramids" are more correctly referred to as "temples", built as artificial mountains for conducting ceremonies. The underworld was the realm of the dead. Beneath the extensive apartment complexes that surround the monumental center are the basement tombs of the residents' ancestors. (The Mesoamerican pyramids, unlike the ones in Ancient Egypt, were not primarily built as tombs.) Many ceremonial structures at Teotihuacan were built in layers, as later generations covered up previous surfaces to make existing temples larger and grander. Much of the artwork visible today was protected by an outer layer that's been peeled away. == Get in == Teotihuacan is about 50 km (31 mi) northeast of central Mexico City. === By car (or taxi) === It takes about 45 minutes from central Mexico City if you use the toll highway. It takes much longer, but is more interesting, if you use the old free road. There is a small fee for parking at the site. A taxi may be prohibitively expensive. Private drivers can be arranged in advance for a more reasonable price. === By public bus === From Mexico City, buses to Teotihuacán leave about every half hour from two locations: 1 Terminal del Norte (outside Autobuses del Norte Metro station, Line 5). From Terminal Autobuses del Norte, walk towards Gate 8. There is a ticket booth almost at the end of the concourse. If you're doing a day trip, check that your bus goes to the site entrance of Teotihuacán ruinas and not just to the town of San Juan Teotihuacán nearby. 2 Potrero Metro station (Line 3). From Potrero, exit the station and look for white buses that go to Piramides – they mean the pyramids of Teotihuacán. The trip will take around an hour, and the buses run until about 18:00. A one-way ticket will cost M$81 (April 2026). When alighting the bus, check the last departure with the driver. You will be dropped off and picked up at either Puerta 1 (closest to the Temple of Quetzalcóatl), or at Puerta 3 (in front of the Pyramid of the Sun), depending on your bus. Remember where your bus dropped you off - your return bus will likely be in the same position, but on the opposite side of the street. Bus tickets allow you to exit at any time, so you do not have to worry about exiting at a particular time, as long as you don't miss the last bus. If you're spending the night in one of the towns near the pyramids, Autobuses Teotihuacan at the Terminal del Norte also has service to the town center of San Juan Teotihuacan and to its station near the center of San Martín de los Pirámides. From Puebla: As of March 2024, Autobuses Teotihuacan also offers buses from Puebla's CAP terminal (M$180, 1.5-2.5 hrs). Return buses run four times a day, departing San Martín for Puebla at 8:30am, 12:30pm, 3:30pm, and 5:30pm (though it's not unusual for them to be up to an hour late). Buses stop outside the Autobuses Teotihuacan station in San Martín, but probably also pass through San Juan Teotihuacan and possibly by one of the park gates - ask a bus driver if you can. === By tour bus === Many travel agencies offer half or full day tours that include the site, often combined with the Plaza de las Tres Culturas and the Basilica of Guadalupe, also north of the city center. Prices start around M$700 for an adult. It’s a convenient way to combine the three, but like guided tours everywhere in the world, these tours (especially the cheapest ones) will waste much of your time by promoting gift shops, and will take you to the sites during the busiest times of the mid-day. == Get around == Most of the site is enclosed within the 652-acre (264 ha) Zona Arqueológica (Archaeological Zone). There are a handful of minor excavated areas outside this zone. Zona Arqueológica de Teotihuacán (Teotihuacán Archaeological Zone). Daily 8:00-17:00. M$210. (updated Feb 2026) The entrance fee is M$210, or M$105 for Mexican citizens and Permanent Residents with ID. (Jan 2026). The site is open daily from 8:00-17:00. Group tours start arriving en masse around 9:30, though the site is spacious enough for everyone even when busy. There are three main entrances along the west side of the park, with parking lots and ticket booths. There are also two smaller entrances on the east side. 3 Puerta 1 near the southwest corner, across from the Temple of Quetzalcóatl. 4 Puerta 2 on the west side, across from the Pyramid of the Sun. 5 Puerta 3 near the northwest corner, in front of the Pyramid of the Moon. This is a large site - the central avenue is about 2 km (1.2 mi) long. A lot of walking is required, as there is no motorized transport inside the park. If you go by bus, you will need to walk back to your drop-off point after exploring the far end of the park. If you tire easily, pack light for this excursion (i.e., no backpacks, heavy purses, etc.). There's limited shade, especially if you go at mid-day. You can see the site's main attractions in about 2-3 hours, plus time to walk back to your starting point. If you have a car, then you can drive around the perimeter road outside of the park. There seem to be ATVs for rent at some entrances, but they are not allowed inside the park. There are a few taxis in the area, which are reasonably priced, but it's not always easy to find one when you want it (same for rideshare apps). == See == The park has a lot to look at. The highlights are the two massive pyramids, two smaller temples excavated to show elaborate artwork, and the museum. From north to south: 1 Pirámide de la Luna (Pyramid of the Moon) (north end of the Avenue of the Dead). The second largest pyramid in the park. It mimics the contours of Cerro Gordo, the mountain in the distance to the north. It was built between 100 and 450 AD, covering up an earlier temple, with a more interesting design than the larger Pyramid of the Sun. It was used as a stage for performing ritual sacrifices and ceremonies in honor of the Great Goddess of Teotihuacan. (updated Feb 2026) 2 Palacio de Quetzalpalotl (Palace of Quetzalpapálotl) (near Puerta 3, SW of Pyramid of the Moon). A housing and temple complex with wall paintings, sculptures, and underground rooms. The name Quetzalpapálotl (Feather Butterfly) comes from the reliefs of mythological birds on the courtyard pillars. It was built around 450 to 500 AD, over earlier structures from around 250 to 300 AD. It is thought to have been the home of a high ranking priest or other dignitary. Includes the Palacio de los Jaguares (Palace of the Jaguars) and the Templo de los Caracoles Emplumados. (updated Feb 2026) Avenida de Los Muertos (Avenue of the Dead). The main monuments of the city are connected by this wide 2 km (1.2 mi) central road. The Aztecs believed it to have been paved with tombs, hence the name. Take a close look at the many lesser temples and other ceremonial constructions along the sides. (updated Feb 2026) 3 Pirámide del Sol (Pyramid of the Sun) (near the center of the park). The largest pyramid in Teotihuacan at 71 m (233 ft), and one of the largest in Mesoamerica. It is believed to have been constructed about 200 AD. It is thought that the pyramid venerated a deity within Teotihuacan society, but destruction of the temple on top of the pyramid has so far prevented clear identification of its purpose. The pyramid was built on a carefully selected spot, aligned to the prominent Cerro Gordo to the north and to sunrises and sunsets on specific dates. (updated Feb 2026) 4 Museo Teotihuacán. The museum at the park with outstanding displays and a miniature recreation of the entire site. Well worth the visit. 5 Templo de Quetzalcoatl (Temple of Quetzalcoatl) (near the southern end). The third largest pyramid, and one of the most sacred temples in the complex. The sides of the structure are covered with stone heads associated with the later Aztec god Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent. More than 100 possibly sacrificial victims were buried beneath the structure. (updated Feb 2026) Interpretive signage added in 2024 provides decent descriptions and context in Spanish and English for the park's most notable features. === Outside the archaeological zone === There are additional smaller structures outside of the park, with free entry. These ancient apartment complexes have some of the most impressive ancient wall paintings of the city. 6 Palacio de Atetelco (Palace Atetelco). (updated Feb 2026) 7 Palacio de Tepantitla (Palace Tepantitla). (updated Feb 2026) 8 Palacio de Tetitla (Palace Tetitla). The partial walls emerging from this residential block are covered in detailed and richly-colored frescoes. (updated Feb 2026) A drive around the perimeter, on the road along the park will provide many surprises and is worth the trip. Hitching a ride or even paying a few pesos for a ride will be worth the effort. == Do == === Climb the pyramids === The pyramids were closed to climbing during the COVID-19 pandemic and remained closed for 5 years to allow time for restoration projects to take place. As of May 2025, access was re-opened, but additional long-term closures for maintenance and restoration are common, and there are concerns that closures will become more common to protect the structures from overtourism. If you're planning a trip, reach out to someone ahead of time (perhaps via social media groups in the area) to inquire about the closure status. As of Jan 2026, the Pyramid of the Sun was closed. At the top, you will have a panoramic view of the valley. As of Jan 2026, you could climb the Pyramid of the Moon to the first platform level, about halfway up. From there, you will have a view all the way down the Avenue of the Dead. Early morning is the best time to climb the pyramid, before the sun becomes too hot and when mists often blanket the grounds. If you visit during winter months and arrive early, it will be very cold early in the morning. You may need to dress for comfort in both cold and warm weather during your visit. === Ride a hot air balloon === Float over the pyramids of Teotihuacan in a hot air balloon. Bare bones "flight only" arrangements can be made directly with the balloon operators though most tourists find it easiest to arrange the tour through a travel agent, hotel concierge, or via a package offered by various websites. Flights are usually very early in the morning. Some include pickup by van in Mexico City. === Festivals === Festival Chaman Teotihuacán - November 1. The annual Day of the Dead celebration includes an amazing fleet of hot air balloons floating over the pyramids as well as papel picado, painting, pottery and other traditional handcraft classes. At night there are candlelight celebrations and a bonfire as ofrendas are decorated. == Buy == There are a lot of vendors selling silver products. In México, silver is thought to be cheap and only for tourists. Also, you will find obsidian rocks for sale. Some of these objects may just be a round or shaped stone, or something more elaborate like a statue. Also, there will be salesmen everywhere with Aztec flutes. Other common souvenirs that can be found around Mexico will also be for sale here, such as magnets, bottle openers, etc. Around the inside perimeter of the site you will find several shops that not only sell, but also manufacture obsidian art and other stone objects for sale. Shop and compare quality and prices before buying. You can exit one of the western gates into the adjacent town of San Juan Teotihuacán. There you can shop for consumer items like groceries, water, bakery items, and fresh orange juice. Nice little town. == Eat == There is one restaurant within the park grounds: 1 Restaurante las Piramides (At the museum). There are food vendors just outside the parking lot for Puerta 2. There are plenty of restaurants near the entrances of the complex and in San Juan Teotihuacán and neighboring towns, as well as grocery stores and bakeries. 2 Restaurante La Gruta (on the eastern perimeter, 500m down the road across from Puerta 5), ☏ +52 594 956 0127. Daily 11:00-19:00. The restaurant is located deep inside a subterranean cave and illuminated by two large holes on the side along with other ambient lighting. There is a bar with a vast selection of beers, wines, and liquors. Prepare for the possibility of a serenade by a small Mariachi band or weekend shows featuring live Aztec dancers. 3 Villas Teotihuacan Hotel SPA, Periférico Sur s/n, Zona Arqueológica (close to Puerta 1), ☏ +52 55 5836 9020. Daily 07:30-22:00. Has a very pleasant dining room serving 3 meals a day. It is reasonably priced, food is excellent and the staff very helpful. It's possible to order food or drinks "para llevar" (to go), and enter the site with them in a small bag. The rules on this are unclear so if you do so, please be modest and respectful not to leave a mess anywhere. Consider preparing a picnic to enjoy at the park. If you arrive before the site opens, you may not find many options open. Just outside the entrance across from the Pyramid of the Sun, there is only one small 'restaurant' (Nov 2025) open, consisting of a few tables outside under a tarp. == Drink == There are a lot of small vendors that sell water, juices, and sodas, mostly at the various the gates of the park. Alcohol is available at the hotel and several vendors around the perimeter (on the road) sell cold beer. == Sleep == There are many small hotels, inns, and homestays around the outside of the park, which can be found on aggregator websites. Prices start around M$600 for a room that holds two people. You can only enter the park from one of the five gates (Puertas 1-5), so even if your accommodation appears to be right at the edge of the park, there could still be a significant walk to get to an actual entrance. On the bright side, the perimeter road is a pretty nice place to walk, with wide sidewalks and lots of shade trees. Places along the west side of the park will be easiest to reach by bus. There are a few taxis in the area, which are reasonably priced, but it's not always easy to find one when you want it. 1 Villas Teotihuacan Hotel SPA, Periférico Sur s/n, Zona Arqueológica (at south end of the park, 15 minutes walk from Puerta 1), ☏ +52 555 836 9020, reservas@villasmex.com. Once billed as the only hotel located in the archaeological zone, it's now outside of the fence. The hotel is open all year round, and is accessible to the public. There is a small swimming pool, dining room and patio. The rooms are a bit small, but very clean. There is secure parking, having a car at the site is a real plus! You will be allowed to drive around the entire site without much restriction. M$1,120 and up. 2 Hotel Quinta Sol, 26 Av Hidalgo, Teotihuacan SJ (From toll road take last exit to Teotihuacan SJ (not Piramides), it's just off that exit), ☏ +52 594 956 18 81. Comfy hotel 2 km from Archaeological Park. Spacious rooms, pool, restaurant. Free parking. Walking to the site from here isn't recommended as it's a hot, busy ratty highway with no side-walk, then there's lots of walking to see the site, then you have to get back. (updated Feb 2017) == Cope == The main thing you will notice inside and around the complex are people constantly approaching you trying to sell you trinkets. If you are familiar with tourist areas in other parts of Mexico, it will feel similar. This can be a significant annoyance if you're not used to that kind of tourist site. Sometimes they can be very aggressive and persistent, and may not stop after saying 'no' once or twice. They are more aggressive outside the entrances than inside the site. If you arrive by bus, there are tour guides and salespeople for various things like ATV rentals, etc, that will directly confront you as you exit the bus, and may follow you for a while unless you ask them to stop. There are numerous stray dogs, mostly outside the park. They do not seem to be dangerous, but touching them, feeding them or paying any attention to them is not in your best interest, especially at the restaurants. Use sunscreen. At this altitude you can get a sunburn quickly without noticing it. The park can be very hot in the daytime, and there's not much shade along the main drag. You may want budget time to seek out shady areas to rest. Wearing a hood or a large hat that can provide a lot of shade will help a lot. == Go next == The only way to get out of the area by public transit is by bus back to Mexico City, Puebla, or other nearby towns. Explore other ancient cities of Mesoamerica: The Centro Histórico of Mexico City was built on top of Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztecs. Monte Alban in Oaxaca was the socio-political and economic center of the Zapotecs for nearly 1,000 years. A number of Mayan ruins lie further east in Mexico.