Your guide to exploring Teotihuacán with a map

Arrive early—ideally by 8am when the gates open. Enter through Gate 1 if you want to start near the Pyramid of the Sun, or Gate 2 for a direct approach to the Pyramid of the Moon. Pick up a site map at the entrance, grab water, and note restroom locations since they’re scattered only near gates.

Walk about 10 minutes from Gate 1 to reach this giant. It’s 65m high and once had a temple at its peak. You can’t climb all the way up anymore, but the base and terraces are still impressive. Take your time circling around for photos—the sheer size is overwhelming up close.

Head north along this 2.5 km ceremonial avenue. The walk is dotted with smaller temples and platforms. Allow at least half an hour to soak it in, especially the perspective of pyramids looming on either side. This is the backbone of the city and the best way to imagine how processions once looked.

The northern anchor of the avenue. Climbing is limited to a lower platform now, but it’s worth it—the view from here is the most iconic shot of Teotihuacán. The plaza below is massive, framed by lesser pyramids, which once hosted rituals and gatherings.

Detour to the Palace of Quetzalpapálotl, about a 10-minute walk from the Moon Pyramid. Admire carved pillars with butterfly motifs, then explore nearby housing compounds like Tetitla and Tepantitla, where colorful murals of jaguars, gods, and water scenes still survive.

Located on the southern end, about a 15-minute walk from the Sun Pyramid. The feathered serpent heads lining the façade are breathtaking. This was once a political and religious hub, and the sheer size of the Ciudadela plaza shows the scale of ceremonies here.