Uncover the rich colonial history of Veracruz on this captivating 5-hour tour. Explore the past as you explore La Antigua, the first European settlement in the Americas, and marvel at the impressive architecture of San Juan de Ulúa, one of the oldest fortresses in the region. With a 4.5/5 rating, this immersive experience promises an insightful journey that’ll have you yearning to learn more about Mexico’s remarkable heritage.
Key Points
- This tour offers a 5-hour exploration of the historic sites surrounding Veracruz, including the first European village in the New World, La Antigua.
- Visitors can discover the colonial-era architecture and landmarks of La Antigua, such as the Casa del Cabildo, Chapel of the Rosary, and Hernán Cortés’ house.
- The tour includes a visit to the San Juan de Ulúa fortress, one of the oldest in the Americas, providing insights into its rich history and strategic importance.
- The tour includes hotel pickup in Veracruz, a panoramic tour of the historic center, and concludes in Boca del Río.
- The tour is priced from $48.33 per person, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The La Antigua & San Juan de Ulúa tour is priced from $48.33 per person and lasts for 5 hours.
It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve the tour now and pay later, allowing them to book their spot without upfront payment.
The tour includes hotel pickup in Veracruz, an English-speaking guide, and gratuities. However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 2 reviews, indicating a positive guest experience.
Looking for more options in Veracruz? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary and Highlights
After hotel pickup in Veracruz at 9 am, the tour takes guests to La Antigua, the first European village in the New World, located 17 miles from Veracruz.
Visitors explore historic sites like the Casa del Cabildo, Chapel of the Rosary, Hernán Cortés’ house, and the famous Ceiba tree.
Visitors explore historic sites including the Casa del Cabildo, Chapel of the Rosary, Hernán Cortés’ house, and the famous Ceiba tree.
Next, the group tours San Juan de Ulúa, one of the oldest fortresses in the Americas, known for protecting Spanish ships and serving as a prison.
Following this, a panoramic tour of Veracruz’s historic center showcases iconic landmarks like the telegraph building, Malecon, and old maritime customs house.
The tour concludes in Boca del Río, famous for its beaches and Jamapa River views.
Visit La Antigua
Departing from Veracruz, the tour takes guests to La Antigua, the first European village established in the New World, located 17 miles away.
Guests will explore historic sites like the Casa del Cabildo, the Chapel of the Rosary, Hernán Cortés’ house, and the famous Ceiba tree.
This ancient town offers a glimpse into Mexico’s colonial past, with its well-preserved architecture and rich history.
Guests can wander the streets, admiring the charming houses and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this quaint village, once a thriving hub for Spanish ships and trade.
Explore Historic Sites in La Antigua
Once in La Antigua, guests can explore the town’s historic sites. They can visit the Casa del Cabildo, the former seat of local government, to learn about the town’s colonial heritage. The Chapel of the Rosary, with its ornate architecture, offers a glimpse into the region’s religious history. Nearby stands the Hernán Cortés house, where the famous Spanish conquistador once resided. The tour culminates at the renowned Ceiba tree, a symbol of La Antigua’s enduring legacy.
| Historic Site | Description | Significance |
| — | — | — |
| Casa del Cabildo | Former seat of local government | Showcases colonial architecture and governance |
| Chapel of the Rosary | Ornate religious structure | Represents the region’s religious history |
| Hernán Cortés house | Residence of the Spanish conquistador | Connects to the town’s colonial past |
| Ceiba tree | Iconic tree in the town center | Symbolic of La Antigua’s enduring legacy |
More Great Tours NearbyTour San Juan De Ulúa
The tour then takes visitors to San Juan de Ulúa, one of the oldest fortresses in the Americas. This historic site is known for protecting Spanish ships and serving as a prison.
Guests will explore the ancient fortress, learning about its rich history and strategic importance. The tour provides an in-depth look at this iconic landmark, offering a glimpse into Mexico’s colonial past.
Visitors can marvel at the impressive architecture and gain a deeper understanding of the role San Juan de Ulúa played in the region’s development. The tour offers a comprehensive experience, immersing guests in the captivating history of this remarkable site.
Panoramic Tour of Veracruz
After touring the historic San Juan de Ulúa, the panoramic tour of Veracruz’s historic center allows visitors to see the city’s iconic sites.
The tour features the telegraph building, the Malecon boardwalk, the bastion of Santiago, and the old maritime customs house. These landmarks showcase Veracruz’s maritime heritage and its role as a key port city.
With an English-speaking guide, the panoramic tour provides a rundown of Veracruz’s history and culture, setting the stage for the final stop in Boca del Río, known for its beautiful beaches and the stunning Jamapa River.
Visit Boca Del Río
From the panoramic tour of Veracruz’s historic center, the tour heads to the coastal town of Boca del Río, known for its beautiful beaches and the stunning Jamapa River.
Visitors will see Banderas Square, the picturesque Santa Ana Church, and the Municipal Palace.
The town’s stunning ocean views and laid-back atmosphere make it a popular destination.
After exploring the highlights of Boca del Río, the tour returns to the hotel, concluding the day’s journey through Veracruz’s rich history and natural beauty.
Tour Inclusions and Accessibility
Included in the tour are pickup and transfer back to the hotel, as well as an English-speaking guide and gratuities. Unfortunately, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. However, live tour guides are available in both English and Spanish. The tour has an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 2 reviews.
| Inclusions | Accessibility |
| — | — |
| Pickup and transfer | Not suitable for wheelchair users |
| English-speaking guide | Live tour guide available in English and Spanish |
| Gratuities | – |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code for the tour. Guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe walking shoes suitable for exploring historical sites and walking around. Light layers are recommended to adapt to changing weather conditions.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Participants can bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on the tour. However, the tour provider doesn’t provide any food or drinks, so it’s recommended to plan accordingly. Consuming personal food and drinks during the tour is allowed.
Do I Need a Passport or ID to Participate?
Yes, you’ll need a valid passport or government-issued ID to participate in the tour. This is a standard requirement for most tours and attractions in Mexico to verify your identity and citizenship.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is suitable for children, but it’s important to note that the itinerary includes some historic sites that may not be of interest to young kids. Parents should consider their children’s ages and interests when booking.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?
The tour’s standard duration is 5 hours, but it may be possible to extend it if needed. Customers should speak with the tour operator about extending the tour to accommodate their schedule and interests.
The Sum Up
The "From Veracruz: the Ancient & San Juan De Ulúa Tour" offers a comprehensive exploration of Mexico’s colonial history. Guests can explore the rich heritage of La Antigua, the first European settlement in the New World, and marvel at the impressive architecture of San Juan de Ulúa, one of the oldest fortresses in the Americas. With a high rating and a diverse itinerary, this tour provides an insightful journey into Mexico’s past.
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