Things to do in Xalapa
Discover the best attractions and experiences Xalapa has to offer
Historic Monuments
Xalapa’s historic core reveals its colonial roots and republican era through plazas, churches and grand façades.
Centro Histórico de Xalapa
Tree-lined streets, plazas and colonial buildings ideal for a morning stroll.
Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción (Xalapa)
A striking cathedral anchoring the city center with serene interiors.
Palacio Municipal de Xalapa
Colorful, historic city hall set among the old streets and markets.
Museums
Cultural institutions in Xalapa cover archaeology, regional history and local urban life.
MAX - Museo de Antropología de Xalapa
Exhibits on Veracruz’s indigenous cultures and archaeology.
Museo de la Ciudad de Xalapa
Displays about the urban development and daily life of Xalapa.
Museo Regional de Xalapa
Regional history and cultural artifacts from the Veracruz region.
Religious Monuments
Sacred architecture and historic churches that pepper the city streets.
Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción (Xalapa)
Grand cathedral with a tranquil interior and city views nearby.
Iglesia de San José (Centro)
Historic parish church anchoring daily life in the urban core.
Templo de la Virgen de Guadalupe (Xalapa)
Traditional church serving local devotion in the city center.
National & Theme Parks
Natural spaces around Xalapa offer easy day trips into lush scenery and wildlife.
Parque Los Tecajetes
Scenic wetland park with bridges, ducks and tranquil paths.
Cascadas de Texolo
Impressive waterfalls just outside Xalapa, perfect for a nature day.
Reserva Natural Cerro de Macuiltépetl
Green hill with trails and city viewpoints nearby.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant areas around the city show local life, cafés and viewpoints.
Centro Histórico de Xalapa
Historic core with markets, cafés and colonial architecture.
Xallitic
Hilly, bohemian neighborhood known for cafés and views.
La Rivera
Residential area with local shops and traditional eateries.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the city without spending a peso with these easy, welcoming options.
Paseo por Parque Los Berros
Relaxed stroll around ponds, gardens and sculptures.
Paseo por el Centro Histórico
Free architectural walk among plazas and monuments.
Miradores gratuitos desde Macuiltépetl
City panoramas from hilltop viewpoints.
Gastronomy
Veracruz’s flavors shine in Xalapa’s eateries, cafés and regional dishes.
Tamales veracruzanos
Classic Veracruz tamales with savory fillings.
Café de Xalapa
Bold regional coffee culture, enjoyed with a pastry.
Pescado a la veracruzana
Popular Veracruz-style fish cooked in tomato and capers.
Nightlife
Evenings come alive in the city’s bars, cafés and cultural venues.
Zona de bares en el Centro
Casual bars with music and people watching in the historic core.
Cafés nocturnos y bares en Xallitic
Evening spots with live sets and relaxed vibes.
Tlaqná Centro de Artes
Cultural venue offering performances and evening events.
Entertainment
Cultural spaces and venues for performing arts around the city.
Tlaqná Centro de Artes
Cultural hub with contemporary performances and art exhibitions.
Teatro del Estado
City theatre hosting plays, concerts and shows.
Cineteca UV
Film screenings and cinema events by the Universidad Veracruzana.
Sports
Active ways to enjoy the outdoors and keep fit in Xalapa.
Senderismo en Cerro Macuiltépetl
Pleasant city hike with rewarding views.
Paseo en bicicleta por la ciudad
Bike-friendly routes through parks and avenues.
Carreras y encuentros al aire libre
Join local running groups and outdoor events.
Off the Track
Hidden nature escapes and offbeat day trips near Xalapa.
Cascadas de Texolo (Xico)
Waterfalls and forested trails a short drive from Xalapa.
Grutas y miradores cercanos
Nearby caves and viewpoints for a nature-focused escape.
Rincones rurales alrededor de Xalapa
Small villages and local markets off the usual path.