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Teotihuacán Tours & Tickets

4.4(481 Ratings)

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Teotihuacán Tours & Tickets
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From the happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Joan B Griswold
US

Joan

United States
Mar 2024
Our guide Lily and driver Francisco were excellent. Both were friendly. Lily was most knowledgeable and recommend her most enthusiastically.
Philip Blair

Philip

Mar 2021
Had a great time at this tour and loved the liqueur tasting with a local Teotihuacan family. We tasted a variety of liqueurs such as tequila, mezcal, etc and all these were made from a cactus. It tasted amazing!
Daniel Avery

Daniel

Nov 2022
Our guide was very nice but she spoke the whole bus ride and no one could understand her. She switched back and forth between Spanish and English that wasnt very good. And the speakers in the bus were terrible. So her talk just sounded like a bunch of noise.
Leon Daniels

Leon

Mar 2021
Loved the guide. he was so nice and helpful and explained everything in much detail. We roamed around in peace and saw everything.
Genny Saenz

Genny

Apr 2021
Just mindblowing! I had so much fun today , the guide was amazing and knew so much about the various places. It did not even cost that much and we went to three major sites all in one day! The lunch was amazing too. Great initiative.
Chere Ruffin

Chere

Mar 2021
Had a great day. We went to three places , my favourite was the city of gods. The scenery from there is beautiful. I could have stayed there for hours. The guide is really nice and knowledgable.
Mark Hamidi
CA

Mark

Canada
Oct 2023
The two day tour was very informative. 1st day was a very well organized tour of Teotihuacan. Lunch was not included in the price but the place for lunch was an authentic experience with decent food. Our English speaking tour guide Gerson was very knowledgeable and also very funny. We only wish he spoke a little slower and more clearly as it was sometimes very hard to understand him and what he is saying. Day 2 was a private tour of National Museum of Anthropology and the historic centre of Mexico City, including Templo Mayor Museum. Our guide Emmanuel was absolutely fantastic and super knowledgeable and well spoken. Highly recommend Emmanuel. Our only issue with Day 2 tour was it was none stop walking and standing from 9am to 2pm without even a break for lunch or some snacks etc. so we were extremely tired and hungry by the end of the tour. So our only suggestion is to include a lunch or rest period with some food and drinks in Day 2 tour of Mexico City. Other than that great tour altogether and we would recommend taking this tour as you learn a lot about the history of Mexico in general and particularly about Teotihuacan, Mayan and Aztec civilizations.
Sidney Riley

Sidney

Mar 2021
Great tour guides, answered all my queries and waited for me because I was having trouble finding the meeting spots. Customer support helped me a lot.

Top things to do in Mexico City

Reconstruction of a Maya temple exhibit at the Museum of Anthropology, showcasing ancient architecture.
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Frida Kahlo Museum exterior in Mexico City with vibrant blue walls and lush garden.
Frida Kahlo Museum Tickets

Why visit Teotihuacán

Pyramid of the Sun and the Moon at Teotihuacan, Mexico, with tourists exploring the ancient site.

Secret highlights in architecture

  • ​Pyramid of the Sun: Did you know that this pyramid was built over a cave that was historically considered sacred? Many visitors miss the significance of this connection to the earth. Look for the small shrine at its base, which is often overlooked.
  • ​Pyramid of the Moon: The structure is aligned with the nearby mountain, Cerro Gordo, which was believed to be a sacred site. Take a moment to sit at the top and reflect on how ancient civilizations integrated their architecture with nature.
Palace of the Jaguars murals with plumed felines holding conch shells and a goggled deity, Teotihuacan, Mexico.

Unique cultural insights

  • Mural artistry: The murals in the Palace of the Jaguars and the Palace of the Feathered Serpent are not just decorative; they depict complex narratives about gods and mythology. 
  • Obsidian artifacts: Look for vendors selling obsidian items. Obsidian was crucial for trade and tools in Teotihuacán, and purchasing a piece can connect you to the ancient practices of this civilization.
Teotihuacan wall painting fragments depicting ancient city life and culture.

Off-the-beaten-path exploration

  • Tepantitla compound: This residential area features some of the best-preserved murals depicting daily life and rituals. Most tourists stick to the main pyramids, so you’ll find it quieter here. Look closely at the murals for details about agricultural practices and social structure.
  • The Citadel: While many skip this area, it’s essential for understanding Teotihuacán’s political structure. The layout suggests it was a ceremonial center, so take time to explore its ruins and imagine the rituals that took place here.

Things to know before you book your Teotihuacán tours

  • Prefer exploring on your own?Skip-the-line entry tickets let you enter quickly without waiting. No transport or guide included — you’ll need to arrange your own ride from Mexico City (about 1 hour).
  • Want everything sorted for you?Guided day tours from Mexico City include transport, a guide, and visits to Teotihuacán, the Basilica of Guadalupe, and Tlatelolco. Private options offer hotel pickup, too.
  • If you want to beat the crowds (and heat!), the ​early morning guided tour is your best option. You'll get prime photo opportunities and cooler weather. If waking up early isn't your thing, ​afternoon guided tours let you sleep in while still benefiting from expert guidance.
  • Want to see something beyond the usual Teotihuacán sights? The pre-Hispanic cave experience is fascinating—you’ll explore ancient underground caves used by pre-Hispanic civilizations, accompanied by a cultural presentation, traditional food tasting, and deep historical context. This special tour runs for about 6 hours with transport included.
  • If you're looking for something truly memorable, consider a Teotihuacán hot air balloon ride. Flights take off very early (around 5am) and last around 45 minutes over Teotihuacán's stunning pyramids. After landing, you get a flight certificate. Keep in mind, there are some restrictions: you can't participate if you're pregnant, have heart conditions, mobility issues, or weigh over 150kg.

Best ways to reach Teotihuacán from Mexico City

Teotihuacán is about 50 km (31 miles) from Mexico City, and getting there can take anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the mode of transport. If you want a smooth, hassle-free trip, a guided tour with transport is your best bet. However, if you're feeling adventurous, there are other ways too. Here’s a breakdown of your options

Teotihuacan's Avenue of the Dead with Pyramid of the Sun in the background, Mexico.

If you want a zero-stress experience, book a guided tour with round-trip transport. You'll be picked up from a central location in Mexico City, have a comfortable ride, and an expert guide to explain the ruins. This is the best option if you want history, convenience, and no logistics to worry about.

  • Prefer a group tour with a guide? Pick the ​Full-Day Guided Tour—it covers Teotihuacán, Basilica of Guadalupe & Tlatelolco.
  • Want an early morning start to beat the crowds? Go for the ​Early Access Guided Tour (pickup at 6:20am from MIGA Café).
  • Need a private ride? Choose the ​Private Full-Day Tour with direct hotel pickup.
  • Want a once-in-a-lifetime experience? The Hot Air Balloon Ride + Guided Tour covers both a sunrise balloon flight and a guided visit after.
People sitting inside a bus traveling

You can take a public bus from Mexico City’s Autobuses del Norte station—look for the “Piramides” ticket counter. Buses leave every 15-30 minutes, and the journey takes about 1 hour. A round-trip ticket costs around 120 MXN ($7 USD).

However, keep these in mind:

  • You’ll need to navigate the metro or a taxi to the bus station.
  • Buses don’t drop you at the main entrance. You’ll need to walk from the highway stop.
  • Returning can be tricky—buses get crowded, and you might have to wait for a seat.

This option works if you’re on a tight budget, but for a smooth experience, a ​guided tour with transport is the way to go.

Taxi driver inside taxi, Mexico

Taking an Uber or taxi straight to Teotihuacán is the most flexible option—no schedules, no waiting. The ride costs around $30–$50 USD one way, and travel time is about 50 minutes.

However:

  • It’s expensive compared to tours that include transport.
  • No return guarantee—you’ll need to book another Uber back, which can take time or cost more during peak hours.
  • No guide included—you’ll need to research the site yourself.

If you want private transport with a guide included, a ​Private Full-Day Tour makes way more sense—you get a hotel pickup, a personal guide, and an itinerary tailored to you.

https://www.teotihuacantours.com/

Renting a car is an option, but it’s not the easiest. Traffic in Mexico City is intense, and Teotihuacán has limited parking that fills up quickly. If you do drive:

  • Leave early (before 7am) to beat traffic.
  • Have cash for toll roads—you’ll need about $5 USD (100 MXN) round-trip.
  • Avoid rental car scams—only rent from reputable agencies.

Unless you’re comfortable driving in a foreign country with unpredictable traffic, you're better off with a tour that includes transport.

Highlights of Teotihuacán: A step-by-step itinerary

Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan, Mexico.
Aerial view of Avenue of the Dead with ancient pyramids in Teotihuacan, Mexico.
Pyramid of the Moon at Teotihuacan, Mexico, with surrounding ancient ruins.
Temple of Quetzalcoatl at Citadel in Teotihuacan
Fragments of wall painting from ancient Tenochtitlan, Mexico, showcasing intricate Aztec designs.
La Ciudadela de Teotihuacan, Mexico
Teotihuacan museum artifacts display in Mexico showcasing ancient Mesoamerican culture.
Traditional tacos al pastor with pineapple and cilantro in Mexico
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Begin at the Pyramid of the Sun

The largest structure in Teotihuacan, this pyramid was central to religious ceremonies and astronomical observations.

What to do: Walk around its base and admire its sheer scale. Visit the nearby cave, which is believed to hold spiritual significance.

Tip: Stand at the center of the plaza (this is important) facing the pyramid and clap—listen for an echo that mimics a bird call, a fascinating acoustic feature.

Stroll along the Avenue of the Dead

This grand avenue connects major landmarks like the Pyramid of the Moon and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl.

What to do: Take your time walking this ancient path while imagining how it bustled with activity centuries ago.

Tip: Look for small altars or carvings on the sides of the avenue. These were used for rituals but are often overlooked by visitors.

Visit the Pyramid of the Moon

Smaller than its counterpart, this pyramid was used for ceremonial purposes and offers stunning views of Teotihuacan’s layout.

What to do: Explore its surrounding plazas and platforms instead of climbing.

Tip: Behind the pyramid lies a lesser-known area where archaeologists have unearthed colorful murals depicting deities—ask guides about these hidden treasures.

Explore the temple of Quetzalcoatl

Famous for its intricate carvings of feathered serpents, this temple is one of Teotihuacan’s most iconic structures.

What to do: Study the serpent heads closely; their craftsmanship reveals insights into Mesoamerican mythology.

Tip: Visit during midday when sunlight highlights the details on these carvings, making them even more vivid.

Discover Tepantitla Palace

A residential complex featuring vibrant murals like "The Paradise of Tlaloc," showcasing life in Teotihuacan.

What to do: Spend time analyzing these murals—they depict scenes of abundance and religious symbolism.

Tip: Bring binoculars or a zoom lens to better appreciate intricate details on higher walls.

Stop by La Ciudadela

A massive courtyard believed to be a political and ceremonial hub, featuring smaller pyramids and platforms.

What to do: Walk through its expansive space and imagine grand gatherings here.

Tip: Ask guides about recent archaeological discoveries in this area—they often share stories not found in guidebooks.

Learn at the Teotihuacan museum

Located near the entrance, this museum houses artifacts like pottery, tools, and sculptures that reveal daily life in Teotihuacan.

What to do: Study exhibits showcasing burial practices and trade routes.

Tip: Don’t miss the obsidian tools section—it highlights Teotihuacan’s role as a major center for obsidian production.

End with local cuisine

Outside Teotihuacan, vendors offer traditional Mexican dishes like tacos al pastor or tamales.

What to do: Try pulque, an ancient fermented drink made from agave—a favorite among locals since pre-Hispanic times.

Tip: Look for stalls selling “blue corn” tortillas—they’re more authentic and flavorful than regular ones.

Plan your visit to Teotihuacán

Teotihuacan pyramids with tourists exploring ancient Mesoamerican site near Mexico City.
  • Open daily: 8am – 5pm
  • Best time to visit: Arrive at 9am to avoid heat and crowds.
  • Busiest day: Sundays (Mexican residents get free entry). Expect large crowds.
Teotihuacán opening hours
Restroom signage
  • Restrooms: Located at all three entrances. No toilets inside the complex.
  • Shops: Small vendors sell souvenirs, snacks, bottled water, hats, and sunscreen near entrances.
  • Parking: Available at Puerta 1, 2, and 3 (~50 MXN).
  • Museum: The Teotihuacán Museum (near Puerta 1) has artifacts and a detailed city model.
  • ATMs: None inside the site, so bring cash (many vendors don’t take cards).
tacos at vibrant Mexico City

Inside the Site

🍽️ Café near Entrance 1 – Small selection of snacks, sandwiches, and bottled drinks.

Nearby Restaurants

  • La Gruta (5 min walk from Puerta 3) – Famous cave restaurant. Reservations recommended.
  • Los Ahuehuetes – Serves traditional Mexican food, located just outside the site.
  • Outside food and drinks are technically not allowed, but small snacks are fine.
https://cdn-imgix.headout.com/media/images/a3c8e7f0322fe6253d47fa8c7cebe484-basi.jpg?auto=format&w=702.4499999999999&h=401.4&q=90&fit=crop&ar=7%3A4&crop=faces
  • Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe (45 min drive): One of the most visited religious sites in the world, this basilica is a major pilgrimage spot for Catholics. It houses the famous image of the Virgin of Guadalupe and is an architectural marvel, blending old and modern churches. If you’re taking a guided tour from Mexico City, this is often included.
  • Tlatelolco & Plaza de las Tres Culturas (50 min drive): Tlatelolco was an important Aztec market city and later became the site of a tragic massacre in 1968. The Plaza de las Tres Culturas represents Mexico’s three historical periods in one place—pre-Hispanic ruins, a Spanish colonial church, and modern government buildings. Many full-day Teotihuacán tours stop here before heading to the pyramids.
  • Acolman Monastery (20 min drive): The Spanish built a hidden gem near Teotihuacán, this 16th-century monastery to convert the indigenous population to Christianity. It’s known for its beautiful frescoes and historical significance—it’s where the Mexican tradition of piñatas is believed to have originated. It’s quiet, underrated, and perfect for history lovers.

Helpful tips for visiting Teotihuacán

Pyramid of the Moon in Teotihuacan, Mexico with surrounding ancient ruins.

Choose Entrance 3 for the best start (and shade!)

Most people enter from Entrance 1 or 2, which means the Avenue of the Dead gets super crowded by mid-morning. If you want a quieter start, begin at Entrance 3 near the Pyramid of the Moon. This way, you walk against the crowd and get better photos before the main areas fill up. Bonus point: Entrance 3 has more trees, so you'll get a bit of shade at the start.

Couple in summer attire

Avoid wearing black or dark colors

Teotihuacán’s pyramids are made of volcanic rock, which absorbs and radiates heat like crazy. If you wear black or dark clothing, you’ll literally feel like you’re baking by noon. Go for light-colored, loose-fitting clothes—you’ll feel the difference!

Woman carrying an umbrella

Carry an umbrella, for rain + heat

Locals do this, but tourists rarely think of it! The sun at Teotihuacán is brutal, and there’s no shade inside. Carrying a small, foldable umbrella gives you instant relief, way better than just a hat.

Teotihuacan Pyramids in the afternoon.

The best time for photos is NOT at sunrise

Everyone says “go early for the best photos,” but here’s the real trick—wait until after 3pm. The crowds thin out, the sun is lower, and the light hits the pyramids beautifully without harsh shadows. Morning light is too direct, while afternoon light makes the stone textures pop.

Hot air balloon floating over Teotihuacan pyramids, Mexico.

If you're taking a hot air balloon ride, ask for the left side of the basket

During balloon rides, the best views of the Pyramid of the Sun are on the left side of the basket when facing forward. Since balloons drift naturally, they usually move from west to east, meaning the left side gets the best aerial shots. If you’re in a crowded basket, the right side won’t get the same view.

Watch Teotihuacan from above!
Mexican pesos

Bring small bills for bathrooms

Public restrooms near the entrances charge a small fee (usually 5-10 MXN), and they rarely have change. Always carry exact change in coins or small bills to avoid scrambling. Also—bring your own tissues, because the paper supply is unpredictable.

Woman on the bus looking outside

Sit on the right side of the bus for the best views on the way there

If you’re taking the bus from Autobuses del Norte, sit on the right side for the best views of volcanoes and rural landscapes. The left side mostly faces industrial zones and isn’t as scenic.

Murals at Palacio de Atetelco depicting ancient Aztec warriors and deities in vibrant colors.

The coolest (and least-known) mural is NOT at the pyramids

Most visitors focus on the pyramids, but some of the best-preserved murals are actually at Palacio de Atetelco, a lesser-known area near Entrance 3. If you want to see original Teotihuacán artwork, head there before you leave!

Teotihuacan's Avenue of the Dead with Pyramid of the moon in Mexico.

If you have mobility issues, stick to the right side of the Avenue of the Dead

The left side of the Avenue of the Dead has more uneven terrain and rocky paths, making it harder to walk on. If you need a smoother, flatter route, stay on the right side—it’s more compacted and easier to navigate.

Teotihuacan Pyramid of the Moon with surrounding trees in Mexico.

The best hidden spot for a snack break is behind the Pyramid of the Moon

There’s a shaded rest area with benches hidden behind the Pyramid of the Moon, where you can sit down away from the crowds. Most visitors never find it because they stay on the main path. Perfect for a quiet water break or snack stop.

Tourist guide presenting obsidian handcraft to visitors at Teotihuacan archaeological site.

Don’t just look at the pyramids—look at the ground

Near the Pyramid of the Moon, you’ll see tiny obsidian fragments on the ground—they were used in ancient rituals. You can’t take them home (it’s illegal), but keep an eye out for them to see a piece of history beneath your feet.

Electrolyte drink bottle

Bring electrolytes

Water is great, but you sweat a lot here due to the dry heat. Buy electrolyte packets (like SueroX or Electrolit) from a convenience store in Mexico City before you go—they help prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion better than just water.

Mexican vendor selling crafts at Teotihuacan, Mexico with pyramids in the background.

Avoid taking photos near street vendors—they might charge you

Some vendors expect a “photo fee” if you take pictures near their stalls, even accidentally. If you don’t want to be asked for money, be mindful of what’s in your frame when snapping pictures.

Frequently asked questions and answers about Teotihuacán tours

Can you climb the Teotihuacán pyramids?

No, you can’t climb the Pyramid of the Sun or the Pyramid of the Moon anymore. Climbing was permanently banned to protect the ancient structures from erosion and damage caused by millions of visitors over the years. However, you can still explore the base and surrounding platforms, which offer fantastic views.

Is there a hidden tunnel under Teotihuacán?

Yes! A secret underground tunnel was discovered beneath the Temple of the Feathered Serpent in 2003, containing over 100,000 artifacts like glowing pyrite spheres, carved jaguar bones, and mysterious statues. Some archaeologists believe this tunnel represents the underworld in Aztec mythology, but it remains off-limits to visitors.

What’s the best non-touristy souvenir to buy at Teotihuacán?

Most visitors pick up obsidian trinkets, but a lesser-known authentic souvenir is pulque cups made from gourds. To find them, skip the stalls near the main entrance and look for independent artisans near Entrance 3 or outside La Gruta restaurant.

What’s a rare food or drink you should try near Teotihuacán?

Besides the usual blue corn tlacoyos, try “Tuna Cheese” (Queso de Tuna)—a candied cactus fruit that looks like cheese but tastes like honey. It’s a Teotihuacán specialty you won’t find in most tourist spots!

Are there any creepy ghost stories about Teotihuacán?

Yes! Locals believe the Avenue of the Dead is haunted, especially at night. Some security guards claim to hear whispers or see shadowy figures near the Pyramid of the Moon after sunset. There’s even a legend about a phantom warrior who appears under a full moon. His footsteps echo, but if you turn around… there’s no one there.

Are there bathrooms inside Teotihuacán?

No, restrooms are only available at the entrances (Puerta 1, 2, and 3). Plan accordingly before starting your exploration.

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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.