Road trip from mexico city to teotihuacan: stops and what to visit
How to get from Mexico City to Teotihuacan by car without missing anything?
If you are planning a trip from the Mexican capital, visiting the pyramids of the pre-Hispanic city of Teotihuacan is a great experience. This archaeological site is less than 50 kilometers from Mexico City, making it a perfect destination for a day trip. Find out how to get to Teotihuacan from Mexico City, when to go, what you need to bring, and what attractions you can't miss on your visit. Start planning your trip!
Where is Teotihuacan?
The pre-Hispanic city of Teotihuacan is located in the municipality of San Juan Teotihuacan, in the State of Mexico. This place was one of the most important cities in the ancient world and today is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico and Latin America. The complex includes: the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon, the Avenue of the Dead, temples, palaces, and murals dating back more than 2,000 years.
How to get from Mexico City to the pyramids of Teotihuacan and other attractions by car?
If you prefer to travel at your own pace, the best option is to rent a car (https://www.hertzmexico.com/en/). This will allow you to make stops and comfortably reach the entrance to the archaeological site. The journey from Mexico City to Teotihuacan takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour, depending on traffic.
Recommended route: Take Calzada de Guadalupe or Insurgentes Norte. Join the Mexico-Pachuca Highway (Federal Highway 85D). Take the exit towards San Juan Teotihuacán/Archaeological Zone (approx. Km 27). When choosing a car rental agency for your trip, consider factors such as the variety of vehicles available, the company's track record, its commitment to customer satisfaction, the condition of the cars, and the rates. Take advantage of the benefits Hertz Mexico offers you (https://www.hertzmexico.com/blog/viaja/las-ventajas-de-rentar-un-auto-con-hertz/) and start your trip!
When is the best time to visit Teotihuacán?
The best time to visit is between October and May. During these months, the central region of Mexico experiences its dry season, which means clear skies, pleasant weather, and less chance of rain. This will allow you to comfortably explore the pre-Hispanic city of Teotihuacan and enjoy a complete experience among these imposing pyramids of Mexico. The archaeological site is open year-round, generally from mid-morning until sunset.
However, to make the most of your visit to Teotihuacan, it is recommended that you arrive early, just as the gates open. This way, you will avoid both the crowds and the hottest hours of the day. If possible, plan your visit on a weekday, as weekends tend to be much busier. Tip: If you are planning your trip in March, try to coordinate it with the spring equinox. During this time, thousands of people gather at the archaeological site to participate in traditional ceremonies, meditations, and spiritual rituals, many of them led by indigenous communities and local shamans.
What do I need to visit the pyramids of the pre-Hispanic city of Teotihuacan?
Planning your visit well will make all the difference. Here is a list of what you need to bring:
Comfortable clothing and footwear for walking.
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Enough water to stay hydrated. Cash.
General admission: costs $90 MXN per person. Admission is free for children under 13, as well as for Mexican students, teachers, and retirees. In addition, Mexican citizens can enter free of charge every Sunday.
What to see in the pre-Hispanic city of Teotihuacan?
Pyramid of the Sun: the tallest and most emblematic of the site, at 65 meters high. Climbing it offers spectacular views of the entire valley.
Pyramid of the Moon: located at the end of the Avenue of the Dead, it offers a different, more intimate panoramic view.
Avenue of the Dead: a wide avenue connecting the main structures of the site, ideal for walking and appreciating the scale of this ancient city.
Museum of Teotihuacan Culture: includes original pieces, murals, and models that help to understand the history of the place.
Palace of Quetzalpapalotl: one of the most luxurious residences in the complex, featuring wall decorations and carved columns.
Visiting the pyramids and temples of the pre-Hispanic city of Teotihuacan in Mexico is an experience that connects history, culture, and adventure. If you don't have your own vehicle, don't worry: car rental in Mexico City will allow you to reach this fabulous destination. Plan ahead and get ready for one of the best trips you can take from the Mexican capital.