The Pyramid of the Sun and the Avenue of the Dead, Teotihuacan

No. 23 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to Visit 2026

Teotihuacan

State of Mexico, Mexico

A vast ancient city of pyramids and avenues north-east of Mexico City.

Photo: Arian Zwegers from Brussels, Belgium, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

Teotihuacan was one of the largest cities in the Americas in the first centuries AD. Its Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon stand along the Avenue of the Dead. The Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The site is large and exposed, with little shade, so bring water, sun protection and a hat.

Best time to visit

November to April is the dry season. Arrive at opening time to avoid the heat and crowds; weekends are busier.

Highlights

  • 1

    Pyramid of the Sun

    One of the largest pyramids in the Americas.

  • 2

    Pyramid of the Moon

    At the north end of the Avenue of the Dead, with a view down the avenue.

  • 3

    Avenue of the Dead

    The main axis, more than 2 km long.

  • 4

    Temple of the Feathered Serpent

    Carved serpent heads on the Ciudadela temple.

  • 5

    Hot-air balloons

    Sunrise flights over the valley offered by local operators.

Getting there

Teotihuacan is about 50 km from central Mexico City, roughly 1–1.5 hours by bus from the Terminal Autobuses del Norte or by tour.

Practical tips

Opening & tickets
Opening times, ticket rules and any visitor limits change, so check the official information before you go.
Time needed
Half a day.

Official information: UNESCO: Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan. Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.

Map

Nearby

  1. The Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico City

    Mexico City

    Mexico

    About 40 km away

    Full guide
  2. The courtyard and giant 'umbrella' canopy of the Museo Nacional de Antropología

    Museo Nacional de Antropología

    Mexico City, Mexico

    About 45 km away

    Full guide
  3. Aerial view of Chapultepec Castle on its hill, Mexico City

    Museo Nacional de Historia, Castillo de Chapultepec

    Mexico City, Mexico

    About 45 km away

    Full guide
  4. The curving, tile-clad Museo Soumaya at Plaza Carso, Mexico City

    Museo Soumaya

    Mexico City, Mexico

    About 45 km away

    Full guide