Mexico’s first Spanish-founded settlement is an atmospheric port city home to colonial landmarks. It is a great jumping-off point for less crowded beaches.
Veracruz (Heroica Veracruz) is a laid-back yet lively city shrouded in colonial history. Established by Hernán Cortés in 1519 as a trading port for the Viceroyalty of New Spain, Veracruz has been passed between the hands of France, Spain and the U.S. Wander its streets to discover influences of African, Caribbean, European and indigenous groups. Revel in the atmosphere of its plazas, visit battle-torn monuments and escape to quiet beaches.
Spot architectural treasures, including the Palacio Municipal and Veracruz Cathedral, at the Zócalo (main square). The square springs to life at night with marimba, mariachi and norteño music. Shop for handicrafts and sample local snacks, including seafood tacos and tamales, at Hidalgo Market.
See a slice of Mexico’s maritime heritage via artillery exhibits, model ships and battle recreations at the Naval Historical Museum. See how the city has evolved since pre-Hispanic times at the City Museum. Walk amid the ruins of the Bastion of Santiago, the last surviving section of Veracruz’s city wall.
Admire architectural treasures and observe the seafaring activity of Veracruz Harbor. Gaze up at the imposing Carranza Lighthouse, set above a neoclassical palace on the Gran Plaza del Malecón square. Watch fishing trawlers and freight ships while meandering along the Paseo Insurgentes Veracruzanos esplanade. Learn about battles and the riches of New Spain at San Juan de Ulua Castle.
Drive just south to Veracruz Aquarium, home to sea life from Africa, Asia and the Americas. Continue to Boca del Río, a gateway to golden sand beaches, riverfront parks and tropical islands. Take a daytrip to La Antigua, which for a brief period in the 1500s was the main colonial trading port in Mexico.
Reach Veracruz by flying to Veracruz International Airport, located about 6 miles (10 kilometers) southwest of the city center. Public buses connect the airport with the Zócalo. Expect mild year-round temperatures and heavy downpours from June to October. Visit in February to witness the exuberant parties of the nine-day Veracruz Carnival.
