Weekend in Puebla

16th-century cathedral with two bell towers, marble floors, and gold-leaf altars. The main altar painting by Cristóbal de Villalpando is a highlight – massive and dramatic.

Tip: Free to enter, but you need to join a guided tour to see the choir stalls and sacristy (50 pesos). Go just after 9am mass to avoid tour groups – the light through the stained glass is best then.

Colonial mansion housing a strong collection of pre-Hispanic and colonial art, plus temporary modern exhibits. The rooftop café and terrace give a panoramic view of the city’s dome

Tip: Free entry on Wednesdays all day, and also for everyone under 18 and over 60. The terrace is open until sunset – go 30 minutes before closing for the best photos.

Main square with a large fountain, palm trees, and views of the cathedral’s twin bell towers. Benches and shade make it a good spot to rest between sights.

Tip: Free live music most evenings from 6pm – local bands or mariachi groups set up near the fountain. Grab a seat on the cathedral steps for the best sound.

Large park with a lake, walking paths, playground, and a small train that loops around. Locals come for jogging, picnics, and weekend markets selling handmade crafts.

Tip: Walk to the hill at the north end for a free view of the Popocatépetl volcano on clear days. The food stalls near the lake sell tlacoyos for 15 pesos – much cheaper than in the centre.

One of the oldest libraries in the Americas, founded in 1646. Holds over 45,000 antique books and manuscripts in a baroque hall with carved shelves and an altarpiece.

Tip: Entry costs 40 pesos, not free but cheap. Visit on Tuesday morning for smaller crowds – the light through the windows hits the book spines best around 10am.