Teotihuacan From Mexico City: Mexico Pyramids
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The magnificent Mexican giant pyramids of Teotihuacan are close to Mexico City. Getting to Teotihuacan from Mexico city is easy by Uber.
Day Trip to Teotihuacan From Mexico City: (Jump To)
While in Mexico City we made sure to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Teotihuacán. The City of Gods is located about thirty miles north of Mexico City and is reachable by car or taxi.
History of Teotihuacan
The city is believed to have been at its zenith in the seventh or eighth century when it was home to an estimated 125,000 people, making it one of the largest cities in the world at that time. The growth and assumed wealth of the city were supported in part by the trading of tools, weapons, and bling made from obsidian, a locally sourced volcanic glass.
The remains of the city are impressive. Covering about eight square miles, the area is explored only by foot. The ruins are traversed by the eerily named Avenue of the Dead running North to South. Stone structures and massive pyramids are on both sides of the avenue.
Teotihuacan Itinerary: What To See at Teotihuacan
We started our day at The Pyramid of the Sun, an enormous pyramid structure. Archeologists debate the use and purpose of the pyramid, but the consensus seems to be that there was some sort of temple at the top.
Unique to Teotihuacán is the ability to truly explore the ruins. Unlike most ancient ruins here you’re welcome to climb and explore. We took the 248 small and uneven stairs to the top of The Pyramid of the Sun for an amazing view of the historic site.
After climbing down the pyramid we walked the Avenue of the Dead. The avenue is lined with small dwellings that were originally thought to be tombs, hence the naming of the avenue. Archeologists now believe that they were small apartments. No word on if they were rent-controlled.
At the northern point, you’ll reach The Pyramid of the Moon, a smaller cousin to the Pyramid of the Sun. Though smaller, this pyramid is flanked by smaller structures giving it a unique feel. We were also able to climb about two-thirds of the way to the top.
Continuing back down The Avenue of the Dead we passed many smaller structures, canals, plazas, and remains of buildings. The walk down the avenue gives you a real feeling for the size and power of the Pre-Columbian city. If slowly exploring, the walk will take you about an hour.
At the southern end of the avenue, you’ll reach the Temple of Quetzalcóatl, a smaller pyramid that is decorated with stone serpent heads depicting the feathered serpent, an earth and water deity. As many as 130 human remains were discovered by archaeologists in and surrounding this temple, some believed to have been offered as human sacrifices.
Across from the temple is a modern structure with restrooms and a small cafe. The food is nothing to write home about but there is a nice second story view of the temple complex in the dining area.
Exiting the building there are some small makeshift tchotchke stands selling the standard gift shop fare lining the path to the parking lot. This is the best place to catch a taxi back to the city.
Tips for Visiting Teotihuacan
We took an Uber to the archeological site but found it nearly impossible to get cell service to request an Uber back. Be prepared to take a taxi or arrange return transportation within cell phone range.
There are not many services in the area. Bring a bottle of water and use the restroom when you see one.
Teotihuacan Ticket Cost
Entrance tickets cost us MEX$80 (about USD $5) each.
Teotihuacan Hours
Teotihuacan is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm.
For More day trips and things to do in Mexico City, check out our full Mexico City Itinerary.
