How to Get to Puebla. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel Considerations

Major Airports & Airlines

Puebla has its own airport, Hermanos Serdán International Airport (PBC), located approximately 23 kilometers northwest of the city center. Many international travelers opt to fly into Mexico City International Airport (MEX), Mexico's main international hub, which lies about 130 kilometers from Puebla.

Routes & Flight Deals

PBC mainly serves domestic flights (Volaris, VivaAerobus, Aeromexico), with limited international connections.
MEX hosts numerous international airlines connecting globally (Aeromexico, United, Delta, etc.).
For flight deals, explore options through Dollar Flight Club.

Airport Transfer Options

From PBC, authorized airport taxis (pre-paid vouchers) and ride-sharing services (Uber, DiDi) offer convenient transport to the city. From MEX, the most convenient option is direct bus service.

Transfers to City/Accommodation

From PBC: Taxis (purchase pre-paid voucher inside terminal).
From PBC: Ride-sharing (Uber/DiDi) is a convenient alternative.
From MEX: Reputable bus companies (Estrella Roja, ADO) operate frequent direct buses to Puebla's CAPU.

Airport Facilities PBC

Hermanos Serdán International Airport offers standard facilities including restaurants, shops, currency exchange, ATMs, and Wi-Fi access.

Arrival at MEX

Many international travelers arrive at Mexico City International Airport (MEX), a major hub for global connections. Compare flight options with Skyscanner.

MEX to Puebla Bus

Direct buses from MEX (Terminals 1 & 2) to Puebla's CAPU (Central de Autobuses de Puebla) take approximately 2 hours.

Seasonal Flight Availability & Prices

Price Fluctuations

Flight prices generally higher during peak travel seasons.
Peak seasons: Dec-Feb, Jul-Aug, major holidays (Easter Week, Day of the Dead).
Booking 3 to 6 months in advance often secures better prices.
Prices can fluctuate significantly based on demand.

International Connections

Direct international flights to Puebla's PBC are limited.
Most international visitors connect through Mexico City (MEX).
Connections often occur via major US hubs (e.g., Houston, Dallas).
Anticipate a layover before reaching Puebla directly or via ground transport.

General Airport Information

Hermanos Serdán International Airport PBC

Located approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles) northwest of Puebla city center.

Mexico City International Airport MEX

Situated approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) from Puebla.

Airport Facilities

Both airports offer standard facilities: restaurants, shops, currency exchange, car rental, ATMs, Wi-Fi. MEX, being larger, offers a wider array of services.

Land Transportation

Long-distance Bus Travel

Long-distance buses serve as the main and most efficient mode of intercity transport to and from Puebla within Mexico. They are preferred for their comfort, frequency, and wide network coverage.

Major Bus Companies

Estrella Roja: Reliable service, especially between Mexico City (including MEX airport) and Puebla, with "Directo" and "Ejecutivo" classes.
ADO: Major national company with modern buses connecting Puebla to various cities (Oaxaca, Veracruz), offering "Primera Clase" and "Platino" (luxury).
AU (Autobuses Unidos): A more budget-friendly option, often with more stops, suitable for shorter distances.

Self-driving & Car Rental

For those preferring independent exploration, car rentals are available in Puebla. Driving in Puebla can be challenging due to dense traffic and local driving habits.

Requirements & Companies

Valid driver's license from your home country.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended (available through DiscoverCars.com).
Major credit card for rental deposit and insurance.

Driving Challenges

Driving in Puebla can be challenging due to dense traffic, local driving habits, and the presence of numerous unmarked "topes" (speed bumps).

Important Notes

Third-party liability insurance is mandatory in Mexico; comprehensive coverage is wise.
Major highways (autopistas) connecting to Puebla are generally well-maintained toll roads (cuota roads).
Driving at night, especially on rural roads, is generally discouraged due to visibility and safety risks.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main roads and highways are generally paved and well-maintained. Smaller streets, specifically in older areas of the Centro Histórico, may be cobblestone and uneven.

Local Hazards

Watch for "topes" (speed bumps), which can be large and sometimes poorly marked.
Roadside assistance can be slow.
Navigation can be challenging in cities due to dense traffic and complex street layouts.

Train Connections & Sea/River Arrivals

Mexico's passenger rail system remains very limited.
Not a viable option for intercity travel to Puebla.
Most intercity travel relies on the extensive bus network.

Puebla is an inland city.
Sea or river arrivals are not applicable.
No ferry services or cruise ports.

Departure Planning

Exit Fees & Procedures

For air travelers, the Mexican departure tax (TUA - Tourist Use Tax) is almost always included in your airfare. You will typically not pay a separate fee at the airport upon departure. For land departures, different rules may apply.

Timing Recommendations

Air Travel: Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights.
Domestic flights: 1-2 hours is usually sufficient.
Bus Travel: Arrive at CAPU bus station at least 30-45 minutes before departure.

Airport & Station Facilities

Both Hermanos Serdán International Airport (PBC) and Mexico City International Airport (MEX) offer standard amenities for departing travelers. Puebla's main bus terminal, CAPU, also offers various services.

Available Services

Airports: Check-in, security, duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, lounges (more extensive at MEX).
CAPU Bus Station: Numerous food stalls, convenience shops, restrooms, waiting areas.
Allow extra time for check-in, security, and potential crowds.

PBC Departure

Hermanos Serdán International Airport offers standard amenities for departing travelers.

MEX Departure

Mexico City International Airport, as a larger hub, provides a wider array of services and amenities.

CAPU Bus Station

Puebla's main bus terminal provides numerous food stalls, convenience shops, restrooms, and waiting areas.

Smooth Departure

Confirm your flight or bus details in advance and allow ample time for check-in and security procedures to ensure a relaxed departure from Puebla.

How to Get to Puebla