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About Teotihuacán: The city where gods walked

Teotihuacán, located just northeast of Mexico City, is an ancient Mesoamerican city renowned for its monumental pyramids, intricate murals, and well-planned urban grid.Once one of the largest cities in the world, it offers visitors a glimpse into...

Also Known As

The City of the Gods

Founded On

1968

Quick Information

ADDRESS

Zona Arqueológica de Teotihuacán, San Juan Teotihuacán de Arista, State of Mexico, Mexico

RECOMMENDED DURATION

5+ hours

Timings

08:00–17:00

VISITORS PER YEAR

4200000

TICKETS

From $ 11.40

NUMBER OF ENTRANCES

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE

30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

UNESCO YEAR

1987

Did you know?

Mysterious Origins: The original name and founders of Teotihuacán remain unknown; the Aztecs named it "Teotihuacán," meaning "the place where the gods were born."

Astronomical Alignment: The city's layout aligns with celestial bodies, reflecting the inhabitants' advanced understanding of astronomy.

Multicultural Hub: Evidence suggests that Teotihuacán was a melting pot of various cultures, including Zapotec, Mixtec, and Maya.

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Book Teotihuacan tickets

Teotihuacán Skip-the-Line Entry

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

Flexible duration

Guided tour

Transfers included

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$11.40

From Mexico City: Teotihuacán, Guadalupe Shrine & Tlatelolco Full-Day Tour

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Mobile ticket

9 hr.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

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$33.60

Teotihuacán Hot Air Balloon Ride with Optional Guided Tour & Basilica Visit

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Mobile ticket

4 hr. 30 min. - 11 hr.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

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$137.60

From Mexico City: Teotihuacán Early Access or Afternoon Guided Tour

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Mobile ticket

5 hr. - 7 hr.

Transfers included

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$29.40

Like history? Big triangles? Ancient mysteries no one understands? You’ll probably love Teotihuacán.

Built ages ago by people we still can’t name, it once housed 150,000 humans—basically everyone at the time. The Aztecs named it “the place where gods were born,” even though they showed up fashionably late.

By 550 AD, everyone left. No note. No diary. Just... vanished. Classic. Now it’s all pyramids, cosmic alignments, and vibes. Teotihuacán is old, confusing, and kind of iconic.

Who built Teotihuacán?

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

400 BCE – 100 AD

Here’s the thing—nobody really knows who built Teotihuacán. Unlike the Maya or Aztecs, this civilization left behind no written records, no royal tombs, or known rulers. All we have are its pyramids, murals, and artifacts, and from them, archaeologists have tried to piece together the story.

What we do know is that the city started forming around 400 BCE, and by 100 AD, it had grown into a massive metropolis, with planned neighborhoods, markets, palaces, and religious centers. Some theories suggest that its early settlers were refugees from volcanic eruptions in the region, while others believe it was founded by a mix of different Mesoamerican cultures, including the Totonacs, Zapotecs, and Mixtecs.

Nothing beats being at Teotihuacán! Go see it. Book now!

Temple of Quetzalcoatl with carved intricate structures in Teotihuacan, Mexico.

100 AD – 550 AD

At its height, Teotihuacán was bigger than imperial Rome, covering over 8 square miles (21 km²) and serving as a center of trade, religion, and power. Its people were master builders, astronomers, and engineers, designing a city that aligned perfectly with Orion’s Belt.

But then, around 550 AD, something happened. The city was suddenly abandoned. Some believe it was due to internal revolt, while others suggest drought or warfare. The Aztecs, who discovered its ruins centuries later, were so awestruck that they believed the gods themselves had built it.

The truth? It’s still buried beneath the ruins, waiting to be uncovered.

Explore the Pyramid of the Moon

Unique facts about Teotihuacán that will blow your mind!

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

The city is a cosmic map

The pyramids align with Orion’s Belt, and the city layout mirrors the Milky Way. This wasn’t random—Teotihuacán’s builders were tracking the cosmos. 💡 Try this: Stand at the Pyramid of the Moon at sunset during the equinox—the shadows align perfectly with the Avenue of the Dead.

Teotihuacan ruins with Pyramid of the Sun in the background, Mexico.

Pyramid of the Moon in Teotihuacan, Mexico, with tourists exploring the ancient site.

Entrance to the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl in Teotihuacan, showcasing ancient stone carvings and architectural details.

Teotihuacan Pyramid of the Sun with tourists exploring the ancient site in Mexico.

Teotihuacan's Pyramid of the Moon with Road of the Dead in foreground, Mexico.

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Teotihuacán’s biggest mystery: Who is buried there?

Unlike Egyptian pyramids, the pyramids of Teotihuacán were never used as royal tombs, or at least none were found. However, in 2003, a tunnel was discovered beneath the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, revealing something incredible.

Inside the tunnel, archaeologists uncovered over 75,000 artifacts, including intricately carved statues, jade masks, and human remains. The walls were coated with liquid mercury, and the ceiling was embedded with fool’s gold (pyrite), reflecting light like a starry sky. It was unlike anything found before, leading experts to believe it might be a symbolic underworld or even the final resting place of a forgotten ruler.

Here’s the catch—no definitive royal tomb has ever been found. Some believe the bodies of Teotihuacán’s elite were hidden even deeper underground, while others suggest their remains were cremated, leaving no trace. Whatever the truth is, it’s still buried beneath Teotihuacán, waiting to be uncovered.

All about the Pyramid of the Sun

Frequently asked questions about Teotihuacan

How long does a typical guided tour last?

Most guided tours from Mexico City last between 5 to 9 hours, depending on the inclusions and itinerary. This timeframe covers transportation, site exploration, and any additional activities.

Is Teotihuacán accessible for visitors with mobility issues?

While the main avenues are relatively flat, access to the pyramids involves steep steps. Visitors with mobility challenges can still enjoy the site but may need to forgo climbing the pyramids.

What are the opening hours of Teotihuacán?

The archaeological site is open daily from 8am to 5:pm. It's best to arrive early to avoid crowds and the midday heat.

Can I book a private tour to Teotihuacán?

Yes! Private tours offer a more personalized experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace with a dedicated guide. Many private tours include hotel pickup, customized itineraries, and even special experiences like tequila tastings or visits to local artisan workshops.

What is the best time of year to visit Teotihuacán?

Teotihuacán is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to April, when temperatures are more comfortable. Avoid visiting during the midday heat in the summer (May–September), as temperatures can be intense.