Canteen tour in Puebla

Exploring Puebla’s Traditional Canteen Scene: An Honest Review

If you’re headed to Puebla and want to experience more than just the sights, a Canteen Tour offers a genuine taste of local flavor and culture. While I haven’t done this specific tour myself, I’ve seen plenty of feedback and details to give you a good idea of what to expect. This tour promises an engaging journey through some of Puebla’s most iconic old canteens, with a focus on sampling traditional drinks that locals have cherished for generations.

What really draws us to this experience are two things: the chance to taste authentic Puebla drinks in their historic settings and the fact that the tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who knows the stories behind each spot. On the flip side, one point to consider is that the tour is fairly sociable and relaxed, so if you’re looking for a fast-paced or purely sightseeing experience, this might not be for you. This tour seems best suited for curious travelers who want to connect with Puebla’s culinary traditions in a fun, unpretentious way.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit historic canteens and try traditional drinks like pulque, sangrita, and more.
• Informative Guides: The tour features knowledgeable guides, making each stop both tasty and educational.
• Cost-Effective: At around $45.60, the price includes several drinks and a manageable 3-4 hour window.
• Relaxed Pace: The itinerary allows plenty of time at each location to enjoy your drink and soak in the atmosphere.
• Accessible Location: Starts in Puebla’s historic center, close to public transportation.
• Group Size: Typically accommodates up to 50 travelers for a lively yet intimate experience.

A Deep Dive into the Puebla Canteen Experience

Why is this tour appealing?

If you’re like us, you’ll love the blend of history, local culture, and good drinks all wrapped into one. This tour isn’t just about tasting; it’s about understanding Puebla’s drinking customs and the stories behind each iconic spot. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring local traditions in a friendly, laid-back setting.

What’s included?

For just over $45, you get a variety of alcoholic beverages, covering everything from pulque to herbal liqueurs. The tour doesn’t include tips or additional services, but considering the quality of the experience, the drinks alone offer solid value.

The itinerary: what to expect?

Stop 1: Licoreria San Pedrito

Your journey begins at this classic Puebla spot, famous for its traditional little gooseberry drink. Here, you’ll get a quick 20-minute stop, and the best part? Admission is free. It’s a great intro to Puebla’s local alcohol scene, and the setting immediately immerses you in the city’s authentic vibe.

Stop 2: Bar La Terminal

Next, you’ll visit an old canteen where you can choose between sangrita or vampiro—two of Puebla’s most beloved drinks. This stop lasts around 30 minutes, giving you enough time to savor your choice and soak in the historic atmosphere. The fact that admission is free makes it easy to relax and enjoy.

Stop 3: La Pasita

La Pasita is a must-visit, especially for its story and challenge of the 100 raisins. You’ll sample their famous raisin drink while learning about its significance. The 20-minute visit is short but packed with flavor and history, making it a highlight for many.

Stop 4: Calavera Coyote – Pulquería

Here, you’ll finally get to try pulque, known as “the drink of the gods.” Pulque has a long tradition in Puebla, and this stop lasts about 30 minutes. The relaxed environment and traditional preparation offer a real taste of indigenous Puebla.

Stop 5: La Fuga

A perfect place to unwind with a cold beer in a lively setting. This 30-minute break lets you enjoy the local scene and chat with other travelers or locals.

Stop 6: Nexus – Galería, Café y Foro

This stop introduces a herbal liqueur called yolixpa from the Sierra de Puebla, giving you a taste of regional flavors. The 30-minute visit offers a chance to explore Puebla’s diverse drink landscape.

Stop 7: Calendula Pulquería y Brebajería

The final stop is all about the happy tonic, a local favorite. This 30-minute session wraps up your tour on a high note, leaving you with a lasting impression of Puebla’s drink culture.

Why do travelers love it?

According to reviews, the tour is highly praised for the knowledgeable guides who make each stop engaging and informative. One reviewer called the experience “an excellent tour to taste the different traditional drinks of Puebla,” emphasizing the entertainment and storytelling aspect. The relaxed pace means you can really enjoy each drink without feeling rushed.

What could be better?

A common consideration is that since all the stops are free to enter, the focus is on sampling drinks, not necessarily on the overall experience or food. If you’re expecting a full meal or a more extensive cultural tour, this might not meet those expectations. Plus, since the tour is heavily centered around alcohol, it’s best for those who are comfortable drinking and not traveling with children or those avoiding alcohol.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is ideal for adults who enjoy trying local drinks and are interested in Puebla’s drink traditions. It’s also great for travelers who prefer a relaxed, social atmosphere and want to learn about the city’s bar heritage without high costs or complex logistics.

Final thoughts

This Puebla canteen tour offers a charming, laid-back way to explore the city’s rich drinking culture. It provides an authentic taste of local beverages, guided by knowledgeable and friendly hosts. Whether you’re a seasoned drinker or just curious about Puebla’s traditional drinks, you’ll appreciate the variety and stories behind each stop.

If your goal is to connect with Puebla’s vibrant social scene and enjoy an informal, intimate experience, this tour hits the mark. It’s not a high-intensity sightseeing day but rather an opportunity to slow down, sip, and learn. The price is fair considering the drinks included, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for most travelers comfortable with alcohol.

While it might not be the right choice if you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or a tour with a focus on food and history beyond drinks, it’s a fun, honest way to get to know Puebla from a different angle.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
Since the tour centers on sampling drinks, it might not be ideal for non-drinkers. However, the focus is on traditional beverages, so if you’re okay with alcohol or just want to learn about Puebla’s drink culture, you’ll still find it interesting.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, with each stop lasting between 20 and 30 minutes. It’s a manageable length for most travelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in Puebla’s historic center at 4:00 pm and concludes back at the starting point, making it convenient for those staying nearby.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes alcoholic beverages at each stop. Admission to each venue is free, and the guide is knowledgeable, adding value beyond just the drinks.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Tips are not included, so if you enjoy the experience, tipping your guide is appreciated. Other services or food are not part of the package.

Is the tour suitable for large groups?
Yes, it accommodates up to 50 travelers, making it suitable for larger parties or group bookings.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Since it involves alcohol, it’s best suited for adults. For families traveling with children, this wouldn’t be the best option.

What’s the best way to get to the meeting point?
It’s located near public transportation in the historic center, so accessing it is straightforward.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within that window are not refundable.

This Puebla canteen tour offers a relaxed, authentic peek into the city’s local drinking customs. It’s perfect for curious adults wanting to share a drink or two, learn the stories behind Puebla’s beloved beverages, and enjoy a lively, friendly atmosphere. If that sounds like your kind of experience, it’s likely to be a highlight of your Puebla trip.