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| Veracruz Travel Guide |
Version Español |
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| Hotels, restaurants, travel services, tourist attractions, videos, maps, climate, etc. |
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| VERACRUZ TOURIST INFORMATION / TOURISM IN VERACRUZ |
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In Veracruz, you will always notice details that catch your attention. At a restaurant close to the Malecon (seawall), try tapping a coffee spoon on a glass. This action, in this region, is used to call a waiter. Cafe con leche (or cafe latte) is served in a style very particular to Veracruz by pouring a bit of hot coffee into a glass. Then, using a coffee pot with a narrow-nozzled spout, the waiter fills the rest of the glass with boiling milk, lifting the pot high above his head while still pouring.
These things set the pace of the Port for the lively hubbub of Cafe de la Parroquia, all following a metronome of the shipyards embarking and disembarking merchandise, youngsters strolling romantically by the waterfront and the harp and "jarana" playing as dancers can be heard tapping out the rhythm.
The Port's modernization has included the creation and restoration of attractions like the Veracruz Aquarium, the San Juan de Ulua fortress, the Naval Museum and the City Museum. If you're lucky enough to travel to Veracruz during the Carnival season, an absolute great time is guaranteed. The biggest carnival in Mexico is an incomparable colorful music show where happy and worry-free locals will always, always welcome you with a sincere smile.
Veracruz has a wide assortment of tourist activities, however, and is not centered only on the Port. The surroundings have an endless array of natural resources, landscapes and climates that go from soft beach breezes on the gulf to snow-capped peaks on the Sierra Madre Oriental. These are factors that have enticed the state tourism sector to invest in and develop ecological and adventure options.
The land where southeastern Veracruz lies today is a large and extremely fertile flood plain, formed over time from sediments carried from the high lands by plentiful rivers. These conditions made it easy for groups of migrants to settle and later to give origin to a very little-known Mesoamerican civilization called the Olmecs. Their name comes from the Aztec word meaning 'rubber country inhabitant'.
The location of the present Port of Veracruz is the fourth settlement of the city after Cortez first founded it on the Chalchihuecan islet. From there, it went to the indigenous town of Quiahuixtlan. Due to administrative problems with the ships, it was then moved north to where the town of La Antigua lies now. Finally, at the end of the 16th century it was taken back to the original site of Quiahuixtlan for it was considered a "more decent and convenient place" according to the viceroy Zuniga and Acevedo.
During Mexico's independence, Veracruz played a heroic role in resisting the invasions from Spain in 1829, from the U.S. in 1847 and 1914, and from France in 1859, when it played the role as the Nation's capital during these arduous times. Even when oil and trade were the source of the state's economic prosperity in the past, at the present, the Port of Veracruz is experiencing a boom due to the active participation of Mexico in international trade. This has propelled a careful but intense development in tourism, preserving the immense natural resources of its surroundings.
Being a port city with intense trade activity, Veracruz is an authentic melting pot of ethnicities, cultures and art. The state's musical tradition has its origins in the ethnological fusion of African, Native American, Spanish and other cultures. In terms of architecture, the sober and age-old Spanish fortresses coexisted with modern shipyards. The Franciscan and Dominican styles juxtaposed strongly with neoclassical and modern styles.
The word "eclectic" acquires a truly wide and unusual sense and whether it is in art or in culture, this intense exchange has shaped the personality of the Jarochos (the word for Veracruz locals), who are known for their friendliness.
Boca del Rio is a municipality that sits next to the port of Veracruz, connected by a boulevard with a magical feel to it. It got its name in 1609 because it sits on the left bank of the mouth of the Jampa River. On January 24th 1988, it was declared a city by official decree.
Boca del Rio is a growing city, its modern aspects contrast with the richness of the traditions of its people, steeped in customs. Its world-class hotels, nightclubs, specialized restaurants and first class infrastructure and services along with its World Trade Center and malls make it equal to all large cities without taking away from the warmth of its people. Whether it's just chatting long hours or playing sports, Boca Del Rio will provide a fabulous backdrop for you next vacation.
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- HOTELS
- ATTRACTIONS
- RESTAURANTS
- NIGHTLIFE
- SHOPPING
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Hotel Best Western Brisa Coatzacoalcos Veracruz 
Address: Av Ignacio Zaragoza #2001, Col Palma Sola, Coatzacoalcos, México.
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Hotel Best Western Poza Rica Veracruz
Address: 2 Nte & 10 Ote Col Obrera, Poza Rica, 93260.
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Veracruz Centro Historico
Address: Av Independencia s/n esq Miguel Lerdo, Col Centro
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Hotel City Express Coatzacoalcos 
Address: Av Las Palmas #209, Fracc Paraiso, Coatzacoalcos, México.
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Hotel Fiesta Inn Coatzacoalcos
Address: Blvr Costero 801, Col Santa Isabel, Coatzacoalcos, México.
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Hotel Fiesta Inn Poza Rica Veracruz
Address: General Figueroa 68 Col Centro, Poza Rica, México
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Hotel Gaia ParaÃso Veracruz
Address: km 1.5 Abrevadero Carretera al Salto de Eyipantla.
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Hotel Gran Santiago Plaza Confort
Address: 5 de Mayo S/ Esq. Comomfort, Centro.
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Hostal El Patio
Address: Puerta de Alvarado # 52, Centro. Tlacotalpan, Veracruz.
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Hotel Blau Varadero Veracruz
Address: Carretera de la Morlas km15. Varadero, Matanzas.
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Hotel Esmeralda Poza Rica
Address: Blvd. Poza Rica Nº 1010, Tamaulipas. Poza Rica, Veracruz.
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| TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN VERACRUZ / PLACES TO VISIT IN VERACRUZ |
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Cathedral of Veracruz
The Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral is located in downtown, next to the Main Square and City Hall. It was built on the same place where an early XVII century chapel was constructed between 1807 and 1809. A great number of improvements followed, such as the construction of the chorus and the vault area. The original floor's blueprint design included five naves, the one in the middle being the highest of the altars. In 1963 it became regarded as the Cathedral of the new diocese in Veracruz.
Cempoala
Its name comes from the Nahuatl language and means "Twenty Waters" because it is surrounded by the many rivers of the region. It is one of the most important archeological sites in the state and consists of various buildings that still radiate an imposing beauty today. This complex is surrounded by green pastures and coconut palms that give the place a feeling of mystery, evoking times when it functioned as a second capital for the Totonaca Empire, before it was dominated by the Aztecs. It is located 43 kms from the port of Veracruz.
City Museum
The City Museum is housed in a late 19th century neoclassical building. It was built to function as a hospice but could not open until after the English and the French interventions, which they used as an infirmary. The hospice was housed in this location for 100 years until it was moved to its new facilities. It was inaugurated as a museum on 450th anniversary of the founding of the city. It contains historic, artistic and cultural related collections.
El Baluarte de Santiango
El Baluarte de Santiago is a colonial military construction, built between the early18th and late19th centuries, to help prevent pirate attacks on the Port of Veracruz. Originally the project consisted solely of a large wall surrounding the city. Nowadays, there is also a small museum featuring exhibitions about the city's different historic periods.
Isla de Sacrificios
La Isla de Sacrificios (The Island of Sacrifices) was inhabited since pre-Hispanic times by the Totonaca and Olmec cultures. In 1518, the Spaniard Juan Grijalva explored the Gulf of Mexico and discovered a small island and named it the "Island of the Sacrifices" because of the corpses they found with clear signs of having being sacrificed in worship to their gods.
With the conquerors, the area lost the indigenous inhabitants that were left. In time, the place only kept a few watchtowers and huts, which later became hideouts for pirates. The island remained in Spanish possession until the year 1825 and nowadays, there are tour guides that offer rides by boat around the Island, telling you the many stories that surround it. Over twenty years ago, official decree was instated pronouncing that disembarking on the Island is not allowed.
Jalcomulco and Actopan
These two "municipios" (counties) feature spectacular rapids and dense rainforests where rafting, canopy (or zip line), rappel, hiking and gotcha can be practiced. They also offer state-of-the-art ecological tourist facilities, that is both comfortable and attractive, that will bring you up close and personal with nature at its best. Both places are great for a fun day trip or an exciting weekend. From the Port of Veracruz, Jalcomulco is one hour northeast and Actopan is one hour to the north.
La Antigua
This was the second settlement of the Villa Rica de la Veracruz and it is located 25 kms from the port. The house of Hernan Cortez is one of the most important sites, which is surrounded by huge trees and roots that give a mystical touch to the place. The building still preserves parts of the original building's structure, the room of Cortez, the well and the central patio. La Antigua is a small town that also houses the first catholic chapel ever built in the Americas.
M. A. de Quevedo Zoo and Botanical Park
It contains a great variety of animal and plant life from the area and from abroad, like African lions which are very popular with guests. On the premises, there is also a standard Olympic-sized pool, a lake with canoes and lush green areas. During your visit, you can try a ride on an authentic 19th-century train brought in from the Mexican mining highlands. This is a unique opportunity to spend quality time with the family, surrounded by nature.
Museo Faro Venustiano Carranza
This building was officially opened to the public by former Mexican President, General Porfirio Diaz in the year 1910 to commemorate the first Centennial of Mexican Independence. By the year 1915, Venustiano Carranza set up the three branches of government in this building, which was originally known as El Faro (The Lighthouse), and is currently named after the former president. Several very important political actions were taken during the time of his government, the most critical of which were carried out in El Faro and at San Juan de Ulua. These decisions included the planning and development of the Mexican Constitution of 1917, the very same Constitution that governs the Mexican Republic to this day.
Attractions in VeracruzNowadays, the building is used as offices for the Mexican Army, where Venustiano Carranza's personal effects, furniture, photographs and documents describing the life of the military and Veracruz are displayed. The Museum is located right in front of the boardwalk of Veracruz, facing the Castillo of San Juan de Ulua.
Naval History Museum
It is located in the building that housed the Navy School for 55 years. Along its 11 halls, it shows the evolution of navigation, both world and local. The history goes from the invention of the paddle to the participation of the Mexican Navy in World War II. Its collections include Paleolithic maritime vestiges, weapons and naval equipment, models to scale, documents and photographs.
Pemex Tower
The development of this building began in 1950 and opened its doors to the public in 1952. This building with a rectangular prism shape was originally built where the Bank of Mexico in Veracruz would have been. At the time, it represented the strength and interests of the Government and the Republic and their wishes to project to the world a modern, investment-safe and economically stable image of the country. Presently, the ground floor of the building has scaled-down versions of maritime ports, a gallery of historical photos, artifacts used in the protection of the coast among other things. Admission to the exhibition is free and it is open all year round.
San Juan de Ulua
The story behind the name of San Juan de Ulua dates back to June 1518, when the ships, commanded by Captain Juan de Grijalva, arrived from Spain on the same day as the feast day of Saint John the Baptist. After dropping anchor and stepping off the ship, native people were found repeating the word "culua, culua" over and over. The newcomers, however, mistakenly understood the word "ulua" and used the word to name the area. This place was also used as a shelter for all the ships landing in Veracruz. For these many reasons, San Juan de Ulua is considered one of the most renowned forts in the history of the Americas.
The building was constructed with the idea of storing different objects and articles to be later transported to Spain. Years afterwards, it was also used as barracks for the troops and as a jail for the prisoners held during the viceroyalty, the Independence of Mexico and the Revolution. It was also famous because people such as Chucho el Roto and former Mexican president Benito Juarez were held and tortured.
Veracruz Aquarium
The eighth most visited aquarium in the world opened its doors in 1992 to quickly become an emblem of modernity in the Port of Veracruz. It is also the largest oceanic fish tank in Latin America and contains one of the most complete collections of aquatic organisms, from fresh water to salt water animals from different ecosystems. The aquarium's task is not only recreational but also contributes widely to research and preservation worldwide. A must see!
Veracruz Carnival
Veracruz Attractions In 1866, during Colonial times, the Carnival of Veracruz had originally started out as a religious festivity. In 1925, however, the aim of the Carnival was transformed and geared towards charitable causes and now it has become known as a big and colorful party full of music, good vibes and tons of fun.
The Carnival starts with the famous "Quema del Mal Humor" (Bad Temper Burning) and the coronation of the Carnival's Queen, the King of Happiness and the Child King and Child Queen. Groups of friends, families, tourists and "Jarochos" (the name for people from the Port of Veracruz) get together to participate and enjoy the 6 traditional parades that go by the wharf in groups called "Comparsas" (a crowd dancing with joy), "Batucadas" (people that play samba with percussion instruments), floats and bandwagons. The Port of Veracruz turns into a city full of cultural, artistic, sports activities and the visits of the "Corte Real" (the royal court of the elected King and Queen). The excitement and party days end with the "Burial of Juan Carnaval", a dramatic parody in which is the closing ceremony of Carnaval.
Wax Museum
The Wax Museum of Veracruz features 10 halls and more than 90 figures of renowned celebrities such as sportsmen, artists, political and historic celebrities such as Pope John Paul II. As an additional attraction, there is a fun labyrinth of mirrors. It's located on Manuel Avila Camacho Boulevard, in Plaza Acuario.
Zocalo and Historic Center
Most constructions built during the colonial period are found in the Historic Center, which consist of the Cathedral, City Hall, the main post office and the Zocalo (the Main Square, formerly know as "Plaza de Armas") are the stand-out attractions. It was there where the armed troops took cover and where the Constitution of Cadiz was proclaimed in 1812. Nowadays, visitors will be able to admire the beautiful park with gardens and a central fountain displayed in the area, where cultural and artistic events take place during the day and "danzon" (a traditional dance that is a mix of counter-rhythmic European dance and Caribbean influences) is danced at night. |
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| RESTAURANTS IN VERACRUZ / PLACES TO EAT IN VERACRUZ |
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Las Barricas
A truly Jarocho ambience can be experienced in this restaurant, where you get an assortment of typical food from Veracruz and a beer on the side. The ambience is livened up by a live band and friendly service.
Cafe de La Parroquia
Famous political, intellectuals, and religious personalities as well as artists, have all come to this corner restaurant for over a century, where the milk coffee known as "cafe lechero" was invented. You can hear the classic tinkling of the spoons (sound to call a waiter to the table), taste a careful selection of foods, sweet bread and the sweet-scented coffee that comes from a secret formula. Now, a third generation proudly takes care of this unique tradition that has become part of Veracruz.
"Güero, Güero" Ice Cream
When this ongoing, almost chanting, shout is heard on the street "Pasele guero, guera, guero, guera" (which roughly translates as "This way Blondie!"), then that's the indication you have finally arrived to the traditional ice cream shops of Gutierrez Zamora street. There you'll find the most unimaginable ice cream flavors like the jobo ice cream (yellow plum) or nanche (a small golden tropical fruit) to complement the warm evenings in Veracruz.
El Veneciano
Are you in the mood for a romantic candlelit dinner under the stars? In Boca del Rio, El Veneciano brings typical Italian recipes to your table. Second level is composed by a system of terraces with beautiful views and casual Mediterranean ambience. First level is air conditioned.
El Cacharrito
Today the best meats in Veracruz are served here in the traditional Argentinean style. Informal colonial decor and personal attention make of this restaurant a perfect place for a family dinner.
La Mera Madre
On the coast of Veracruz, the concept of La Mera Madre was born to accommodate the market, for both tourists and locals alike, that needed a quality restaurant. It offers innovative dishes of traditional and international cuisine as well as top notch installations and service, all this with the backdrop of carefully chosen decor. Its spectacular facade features the bow of a ship protruding into the street. At La Mera Madre, there's flavor on board.
Mariscos Ochoa
Mariscos Ochoa is a restaurant with more than 20 years of experience, curbing the cravings of many a discerning palate, with exclusive and exquisite recipes that maintain it as a favorite among locals and tourists alike. There is live music in its air conditioned hall, which can seat up to 120 people.
Palapa Iguana
Delight your palate at this simple and delicious restaurant where local Veracruz cuisine is the specialty, fresh fish and seafood being the main dishes, served in either the open air palapa (open-sided, thatched-roofed structure) restaurant or right on the beach, underneath an umbrella. Find out why the "Palapa Iguana" is the ideal place to learn more about "jarocho" cuisine, at very modest prices.
Samborsito
If you are craving Mexican food, like the tasty "garnachas", Samborsito is definitely the place for you. Founded over 35 years ago, the main draw at this typical Veracruz restaurant is the offering of unique dishes like "picadas verdes" and "gordas negras" ("Picadas Verdes" are miniature flat, fried, corn-dough bowls filled with sauces and topped with cheese and garnishes depending on the region. Gordas Negras are thick puffed up tortillas mixed with beans during preparation). What a wonderful experience!
La Viuda
This famous, unassuming restaurant in Alvarado has a lively coastal ambience, serving its delicious dishes to high-ranking politicians as well as to local villagers. Here you can come to eat, drink and spend a good time listening to Jarocho music. We guarantee you will leave, just itching to come back.
Mariscos Villa Rica
The Villa Rica restaurant, including its three branches, is a respectable place where the years pointed it out as the best place to satisfy your cravings. We recommend trying the "ceviche" and "callo de hacha" ("ceviche" is a cocktail of raw fish marinated in lime and mixed with various ingredients while "callo de hacha" is scallops prepared in the same fashion) which are served here. You can also try typical dishes from Veracruz like the chilpachole (spicy soup) or the minilla alvaradena (cooked fish with tomatoes and chilis). For dessert, even though it isn't all that typical, try the corn cake with coconut ice cream. |
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| NIGHTLIFE IN VERACRUZ / BARS & CLUBS |
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Cocoo's and Beers
This unique retro-styled place is located in Boca del Rio, designed to let everyone chat the whole night with their buddies while enjoying a "yard" of really cold beer, listening to famous 'nortenas' (music from the north of Mexico) and tropical-styled songs and running the gamut from rock and pop to very trendy reggaeton. Don't forget to try the tasty dishes like the hamburgers and the flautas (long corn tortillas rolls filled with beef or chicken). All of them prepared with a special house recipe that adds an incomparable taste.
Classico del Puerto Disco Boutique
What do you feel like doing tonight? What do you feel like listening to? Salsa? Tropical music? Classico del Puerto Disco Boutique has what you're looking for but you'll need to be well-rested because partying till the wee hours of the morning is guaranteed. The tropical shows are mind-blowing, full of glamour and enjoyment. Come by and be part of the frenzy because you'll surely spend one of the most exciting nights of your life here.
La Bartola
This club is a hip, fashionable place full of entertainment where all young 'portenos' (people from the port of Veracruz) gather together for a little dancing and a good time. If you're going for a drink, the circular bar area in the middle of the floor is one of the interesting aspects of the place. Don't miss the opportunity and have a blast with the 'Jarochos' (word used to refer to a person from Veracruz) at this excellent stylish nightclub!
La Casona de la Condesa
This peculiar place located in Boca del Rio is the meeting place for all the chic of the port of Veracruz. The interior design imitates an old warehouse and is the ideal place to sing along and dance the night away. With live music, meeting new people, listening to the latest electronic music, you can also contemplate contemporary art exhibitions that are displayed here. One interesting point about this place is the promotion and support given to the local bands that demonstrate musical skills, worthy of turning them famous later on. The amazing atmosphere of this place is the reason why all Jarochos are talking about La Casona de la Condesa.
Los 7 Pecados (The Seven Deadly Sins)
This video bar is a pleasant little place that offers an enormous bar, always ready to quench the thirst of all sinners that approach. It features an amazing terrace with a view of the seawall area as well as a variety of promos all throughout the week, so you can attack one sin for every day of the week. Penance served would be well worthwhile.
Il Davide
For all of those searching for the cosmopolitan scene right in the port of Veracruz, how about a bar that offers a lounge-styled atmosphere? Il Davide features a frosted glass bar with intermittent colors that switch constantly. Don't buy that ticket to New York! Spend your time here, where martinis are the house specialties.
Bar-Rio Antiguo
Even when the music tends to be eclectic, electronic, house and techno are first class here, offering even a DJ show. The crowd is usually under 25 but the ambience is about the best around.
Moon Bar
This is probably the most chic place in Veracruz these days, located in an ample Californian-style house, by the beach, in Boca del Rio. The music is mainly 70's and 80's and the crowd is over 25.
Pure Veracruz
This ultra cool club is a great place to enjoy a few drinks with friends and dance the night away to music mixed by the hottest DJs. Pure nightclubs are already well known and incredibly popular in Mexico's top tourist destinations, and the newest addition Pure Veracruz definitely continues this trend. Whether you visit Pure in Cancun, Playa del Carmen or Veracruz they all have the same incredible atmosphere and are always full of the city's coolest party people looking for a fun night out and a 'red hot' dance floor.
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| SHOPPING IN VERACRUZ / WHERE TO BUY IN VERACRUZ |
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Plaza Acuario
When you finish your visit to the city aquarium, you can continue your adventure in this mall where you will find a wax museum, a totally functional scaled-down city for kids called Portal de los Ninos and an ample selection of the best handcrafts of Veracruz.
Handcrafts Market
If you don't feel like going back home with just a t-shirt as your only souvenir, at the handcrafts market you will find an eclectic assortment from hand fans, Barbie dolls turned into mermaids decorated with shells, ashtrays and adorned feathers with ocean motifs, small wooden ships, necklaces and other crafts made of wooden and shells. Your best bet for original souvenirs.
Las Americas Shopping Mall
Plaza Las Americas in Veracruz is connected to Puerta del Sol Hotel and features top quality department stores, avant-garde boutiques and a food court. Its modern installations are air conditioned and beautifully decorated to provide you with a comfortable shopping experience.
Mocambo Shopping Mall
The oldest mall in Veracruz is located in the south of the city. It is fully air conditioned and sells all the popular brands, both local and national. |
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