Veracruz, Mexico-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Veracruz

  • Morning: Arrive at the General Heriberto Jara International Airport (VER) or take a bus from Mexico City or other nearby cities.
  • Afternoon: Check-in at your hotel and freshen up. Recommended hotels include:
    • Hotel Casa Azul: A 4-star hotel in the heart of Veracruz’s historic center.
    • Hotel Boutique La Perla: A boutique hotel with elegant rooms and a rooftop pool.
  • Evening: Head to the Malecón, a picturesque waterfront promenade, for dinner at El Malecón: Try their famous seafood dishes like grilled fish or shrimp cocktails.
  • Tips:
    • Exchange your money for Mexican pesos (MXN) as soon as possible.
    • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals.

Day 2: Explore Veracruz’s Historic Center

  • Morning: Visit the Cathedral of San Juan: A stunning colonial-era cathedral that showcases the city’s rich history and architecture.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the Historic Center, exploring its narrow streets, shops, and markets. Don’t miss the Plaza de la Constitución, a vibrant public square with street performers and vendors.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Casa del Mariachi: A cozy restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine like tacos al pastor or chiles rellenos.
  • Transportation:
    • Walk or take a taxi to get around the historic center.
    • Use public transportation ( buses or colectivos) for longer trips.

Day 3: Fortin de San Carlos and Beach Day

  • Morning: Visit Fortín de San Carlos, a colonial-era fortress located on a peninsula overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy stunning views of the city and the sea.
  • Afternoon: Head to the nearby beach, Playa de Veracruz: Relax on the sandy shores, take a swim, or try water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.
  • Evening: Have dinner at El Puerto: A seafood restaurant with a lively atmosphere and fresh seafood dishes.
  • Things to know:
    • Be mindful of your belongings on crowded beaches.
    • Don’t drink tap water.

Day 4: Xalapa, the State Capital

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Xalapa, the capital city of Veracruz state. Visit the Cathedral of Xalapa: A beautiful colonial-era cathedral with stunning architecture.
  • Afternoon: Explore the city’s historic center, visiting landmarks like the Government Palace and the Museum of Anthropology. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some delicious local cuisine like tacos or tortas.
  • Evening: Return to Veracruz and enjoy dinner at La Casa de la Abuela: A cozy restaurant serving traditional Mexican dishes.

Day 5: Visit a Lighthouse and Enjoy Local Cuisine

  • Morning: Visit the Faro del Morro, a historic lighthouse located on a hill overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy stunning views of the city and the sea.
  • Afternoon: Head to the nearby town, Coapexco: Try some delicious local cuisine like tacos or tortas at El Taco Loco.
  • Evening: Have dinner at La Casa de la Abuela: A cozy restaurant serving traditional Mexican dishes.
  • Tips:
    • Don’t miss the opportunity to try some local street food like elote (grilled corn) or churros.

Day 6: Explore the City’s Markets and Shopping Districts

  • Morning: Visit the Mercado Hidalgo: A bustling marketplace where you can find fresh produce, meats, and handicrafts.
  • Afternoon: Head to the shopping district, Avenida Cinco de Febrero: Explore its shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some local cuisine like tacos or tortas.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at El Malecón: A restaurant located on the waterfront promenade with stunning views of the sea.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Check-out from your hotel and head back to the airport for your departure flight.