Visitors flying into Puebla will arrive at Hermanos Serdán International Airport (IATA code PBC), located about 20 miles west of the city center. While smaller than Mexico City's airport, it serves direct flights from some U.S. cities, primarily in Texas. However, other flights from America will arrive via Mexico City International Airport (IATA code MEX), about 80 miles away.

From Puebla's airport, taxis and private transfers are the most convenient options, as public transportation is limited. If arriving from Mexico City, travelers can take a luxury bus from the airport directly to Puebla, with companies like Estrella Roja and ADO offering frequent departures. Private transfers can also be arranged in advance during your booking process for a hassle-free experience.

Puebla's public transportation system is not the most practical option for tourists. While the city has a network of local buses and colectivos (shared vans), routes can be confusing, schedules are inconsistent, and most signage is in Spanish. Puebla also has the RUTA Bus Rapid Transit system, but its four lines do not serve the main tourist areas extensively.

For visitors staying in the Centro Histórico, walking is the best way to explore, as the area is pedestrian-friendly and most major attractions are within walking distance. For trips beyond the historic center, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Didi are the most convenient and reliable choices.

Puebla's Centro Histórico is very walkable, with its colonial streets, plazas, and key landmarks all within a compact and pedestrian-friendly area. Most attractions, including the Zócalo, Puebla Cathedral, and Biblioteca Palafoxiana, are easily accessible on foot.

However, outside of the historic center, Puebla is not considered a walking city. Distances between neighborhoods are significant, and major roads are designed for cars rather than pedestrians. Areas like Angelópolis or Cholula require transportation, making Uber, taxis, or guided tours the most practical options for exploring beyond the central district.

Puebla is one of the safest large cities in Mexico, especially in the Centro Histórico, which is well-patrolled and filled with tourists and locals alike. Crime rates are lower than in other major Mexican cities.

That said, like any city, certain areas are best avoided, particularly at night. The outskirts of the city, industrial zones, and some less-developed neighborhoods far from tourist areas can have higher petty crime rates. In general, staying in well-lit, populated tourist-friendly areas and using trusted transportation options like Uber or taxis will ensure a safe experience.

The currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso (written as MXP, MXN, or $ like American dollars). In tourist situations, usually $ is not used as it confuses the tourist into thinking the price is in American dollars. MXP or MXN versus USD are used in these cases.

U.S. dollars are not widely accepted in Puebla. Most businesses operate exclusively in pesos. Some high-end hotels and tour agencies may accept U.S. dollars, but this is uncommon and usually comes with an unfavorable exchange rate. ATMs are widely available, and credit/debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, having pesos on hand is essential for street vendors, markets, and small businesses.

English is not widely spoken in Puebla, though visitors will find English speakers in hotels, upscale restaurants, and major tourist attractions. Staff at international hotels and some high-end shops may be able to communicate in English, but in local markets, street food vendors, and public transportation, Spanish is the dominant language. To navigate more easily, it’s helpful to learn a few basic Spanish phrases or use Google Translate for reading menus and asking simple questions. Most travelers manage just fine with a combination of translation apps, gestures, and a little patience.

Mexicans typically have their main meal, "comida," between 1:30 and 4 p.m., while dinner, or "cena," is often lighter and eaten around 8 to 10 p.m. Many restaurants align their service hours with this schedule, so if you're looking for a full meal at noon or dinner before 7, options may be more limited. As for high-end restaurants, reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when locals dine out more frequently. Popular spots in the Centro Histórico and Angelópolis can fill up quickly on Friday and Saturday nights. For casual restaurants, street food, or mid-range dining, walk-ins are usually not a problem.

Puebla is one of the best cities in Mexico for shopping, with everything from traditional crafts to modern fashion. For artisanal goods and souvenirs, the El Parián Market is the best spot for authentic talavera pottery, woven textiles, and hand-carved crafts. Nearby, Los Sapos Market comes alive on weekends, offering antiques, artwork, and vintage finds. For luxury and modern shopping, Angelópolis Mall is the largest shopping center, featuring international brands like Zara, Massimo Dutti, and Hugo Boss. Another good option is Plaza Solesta, home to high-end boutiques and designer stores. If you're looking for edible souvenirs, Dulcería de Santa Clara is famous for Puebla's signature sweets, including camotes and tortitas de Santa Clara.

Puebla's nightlife offers a mix of laid-back cantinas, rooftop bars, and live music venues, but the city is not known for rowdy partying.

For a relaxed evening, mezcalerías serve artisanal mezcal in an intimate setting, while craft beer lovers can visit Cervecería Cholula for locally brewed pints. Those looking for a scenic night out can head to rooftop lounges near the Zócalo, such as Casa Barroca, where expertly crafted cocktails come with a view of Puebla Cathedral. For live music, Pulque Para Dos/Terraza Pulkito is a bohemian venue featuring indie bands, jazz nights, and poetry readings.