The Top Archaeological Sites Near Mexico City

Mexico is one of the world’s best destinations for archaeology lovers, given that there are literally hundreds of sites of interest if you want to find out about Mesoamerican culture, from the Aztecs to the Mayans. However, which are the top archaeological sites in and around Mexico City? There are plenty to choose from, but these eight are most worthy of a visit.
Teotihuacán, State of Mexico
Historical Landmark, Archaeological site, Ruins

The most popular archaeological day trip from Mexico City, Teotihuacán is one of the most frequented spots in Mexico and is a convenient journey (approximately an hour or so) from the capital. Translating into ‘the place where men become gods’, Teotihuacán is a mysterious area, which saw its rise and fall before the beginning of the Aztec empire. What we do know about it, though, is that it’s one of the best archaeological sites near Mexico City, dominated by the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon and the central Avenue of the Dead.
Tula, Hidalgo
Ruins, Archaeological site
Templo Mayor, Mexico City
Museum, Ruins, Archaeological site

Tepozteco, Morelos
Park, Ruins, Archaeological site
Cuicuilco, Mexico City
Archaeological site
Cholula Puebla
Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark, Archaeological site

The world’s biggest pyramid was not in Egypt, but rather in Mexico. In fact, to be even more specific, it was in the tiny pueblo mágico of Cholula, Puebla. However, we’re not talking big in terms of height, but rather in terms of volume, as the base of this pyramid was veritably gargantuan, and at its peak, it would have been twice the size of those at Teotihuacán! Although the pyramid proper no longer exists, the attached museum is hugely informative, and the Virgen de los Remedios church, also located there, is spectacular.
Malinalco, State of Mexico
Ruins, Archaeological site
Xochicalco, Morelos
Ruins, Archaeological site

Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
Hanna

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!


Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.


KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?
Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.