The Best Churches to Visit in Puebla, Mexico

As a UNESCO World Heritage city in Mexico, Puebla is renowned for its stunning colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history.

It’s home to over 70 churches scattered across the historic centre alone, with as many as 288 parishes found across the entire city.

Visiting a handful (or more) of these stunning churches is a must when you’re in Puebla, offering the chance to explore some incredible examples of Baroque, Renaissance, and Indigenous Baroque architecture in Mexico.

Here’s a guide to the best churches to visit in Puebla, complete with entry information and tips to help you plan your visit.

1. Catedral de Puebla (Puebla Cathedral)

The Puebla Cathedral takes the top spot as Puebla’s crown jewel. Found right in the middle of the historic centre next to the main square (Zócalo de Puebla), it’s known for its monumental size and beautiful architecture.

It was built between 1575 and 1690, and features one of the tallest bell towers in Mexico.

If you’re lucky, you might get to hear the massive organ in action during a service – it needs FIVE people to play it!

Definitely don’t miss this one – although you really can’t, you’ll end up passing it multiple times as you explore the historic centre!

• Entry Cost: Free
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (access is limited during services)
• Location: Catedral de Puebla

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2. Templo de Santo Domingo (Capilla del Rosario)

The Templo de Santo Domingo is renowned for its incredible “‘house of gold”, the Capilla del Rosario (Rosary Chapel), due to its elaborate gilded interior. It’s easily one of the best churches in Puebla.

The chapel, which was built between 1650-1690 and was added to the Santo Domingo church (built 1571-1611), was the first chapel in Mexico dedicated to the Lady of the Rosary. The main temple is also full of intriguing religious art and sculptures.

• Entry Cost: Free
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Location: Templo de Santo Domingo

3. Iglesia de San Francisco

The Iglesia de San Francisco is one of the oldest churches in Puebla, dating back to 1535.

Its most memorable feature is the colourful tiled facade, which glows with yellow and blue tiles under the sun.

Inside, you’ll find the tomb of Blessed Sebastian de Aparicio, a beloved figure in Mexican Catholicism. The peaceful atmosphere and rich history make this a unique stop.

• Entry Cost: Free
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Location: Iglesia de San Francisco

4. Iglesia de la Compañía (Templo de la Compañía de Jesús)

This Jesuit church, often referred to simply as La Compañía, stands out for its simple yet elegant architecture and richly decorated interior.

Built in the 16th century, this church played a significant role in the Jesuit mission in New Spain. 

It’s also located near the heart of Puebla, making it an easy stop as you explore the historic centre.

• Entry Cost: Free
• Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Location: Iglesia de la Compañía

5. Iglesia de San Pedro Cholula (Santuario de la Virgen de los Remedios)

Just outside Puebla, in the town of Cholula, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies is perched on top of the largest pyramid in the world (by base area).

The church itself dates back to the 16th century, and offers stunning views of the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes from its hilltop spot.

The sanctuary is an interesting mix of pre-Hispanic and Christian traditions.

• Entry Cost: Free for the church, but access to the archaeological zone is around MX $85 (around £4 or US $5).
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Location: Iglesia de San Pedro Cholula

6. Templo del Ex-Hospital de San Roque

The Templo del Ex-Hospital de San Roque is a hidden gem in Puebla, and offers a glimpse into a lesser-known piece of the city’s religious history, away from the tourist-heavy sites.

Built in the 16th century, this small but charming church once formed part of a hospital complex serving indigenous people during the colonial period.

• Entry Cost: Free
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Location: Templo del Ex-Hospital de San Roque

7. Iglesia de San Cristóbal (Templo de San Cristóbal)

Another smaller and lesser-known church in the heart of Puebla is the Church of St. Christopher.

It’s got a beautiful facade with two massive towers, which were destroyed by bombings during 1853. They weren’t rebuilt until 1957, after which the locals started calling them the “young towers”, since they were the youngest in Puebla.

The church is dedicated to St. Christopher, the patron saint of travellers.

• Entry Cost: Free
• Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Location: Iglesia de San Cristóbal

Final Thoughts

Visiting the churches of Puebla offers a fascinating glimpse into the history, art, and culture of the area, and really shouldn’t be missed when visiting this stunning city.

Best of all, the vast majority of the sacred spaces are free to visit, making them an affordable activity for any trip to Puebla.

Take time to explore each one at a relaxed pace, and don’t forget to respect the local customs – many of these churches are still active places of worship.

While you’re there, make sure to sample as many of the must-try foods in Puebla – it’s home to such a range of delicious treats that need to be tried.

Enjoy your travels and make sure to share your experiences with us on our Instagram!

Where to Stay in Puebla

Staying in the historic centre is ideal, since the majority of the churches listed – as well as many other things to do in Puebla – are found here. You’ll have easy access to all the sights and restaurants of the city – everything is easily walkable and safe.

We stayed at Collection O Al Otro Lado del Rio, which was very affordable and absolutely lovely! It’s a short 5-minute walk to the main square of the historic centre, so it was perfect for exploring.

If you want to have a look at some more options, search using the form below:

How to Get to Puebla from Mexico City

Travelling to Puebla from Mexico City is nice and easy. Your main 3 choices are: bus, taxi or hire a car.

Each has it’s own pros and cons which need considering before you travel, so make sure you check out our article covering all your options and our recommendations for Travelling from Mexico City to Puebla.