Puebla

Puebla is Mexico's fourth-largest city and one of its most beautiful - a UNESCO World Heritage colonial city famous for its stunning Talavera tile-covered buildings, magnificent cathedral, and being the birthplace of mole poblano, Mexico's most complex and celebrated sauce.

The historic center boasts over 5,000 colonial-era buildings decorated with the distinctive blue-and-white Talavera pottery tiles that have been produced here since the 16th century. The Puebla Cathedral, with its twin towers and elaborate interior, dominates the central zócalo.

Puebla is a food lover's paradise - mole poblano (with chocolate, chili, and 20+ ingredients), chiles en nogada (the patriotic green, white, and red seasonal dish), cemitas (the local sandwich), and chalupas are all Pueblan inventions. The nearby Great Pyramid of Cholula, the largest pyramid by volume in the world, is topped by a Spanish church.

The best time to visit Puebla is October to April during the dry season, with clear skies and mild temperatures. September is special for chiles en nogada season.

Dry season temperatures of 14-24°C are pleasant for sightseeing. The highland elevation (7,000 feet) keeps Puebla moderate year-round.

The rainy season (May-September) brings afternoon thunderstorms. August-September is chiles en nogada season - worth visiting just for this patriotic seasonal dish.