Zona Centro Travel Guide
Veracruz
Visit Zona Centro
Popular places to visit
Veracruz Harbour
Watch the busy maritime activity, admire grand architectural structures and visit a 16th-century Spanish colonial fortress at this historic port.
Veracruz Aquarium
Spot exotic fish, dive with sharks, swim with dolphins and get up-close with tropical birds at this superb aquarium.
Veracruz Cathedral
Discover the fine collection of religious art that decorates this 18th-century cathedral and relax at the sidewalk cafés of nearby Zócalo.
San Juan de Ulua Castle
Once the main landing point for new arrivals to Spanish-ruled Mexico, this 16th-century fortress is shrouded in the legends of explorers and pirate attacks.
Carranza Lighthouse
Overlooking the port of Veracruz is a grandiose neoclassical building featuring a lighthouse that once guided ships around the city’s bay.
Naval Historical Museum
Artillery displays, model ships and portrayals of historic battles bring Mexico’s naval past to life at this modern and informative museum.
Top hotels in Zona Centro
Hotel Climar
Very hospitable staff, comfortable room and a quiet neighborhood. I look forward to my next stay here.
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2025
Camino Real Veracruz
This is the best hotel in Veracruz that is directly on the beach. Great staff, great location. Walking distance to dozens of restaurants and the best shopping malls in the city. We stayed two years in a row and will be returning next year. Highly recommend!
Reviewed on 29 Dec 2025
Hotel Gran Via
Good
Reviewed on 26 Sept 2025
Grand Fiesta Americana Veracruz
La comida insuficiente y cara
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Emporio Veracruz Hotel
Clean room
Reviewed on 10 Jan 2026
Galería Plaza Veracruz by Brisas
The staff at Galeria Plaza is always the best. They are friendly, helpful and professional. I have also noticed managers are present and also very friendly with guests. Every time I stay at Galeria Plaza in Veracruz it is a great experience.
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Zona Centro
Old Town Veracruz
Waterfront views, historical sites and spas highlight some of the noteworthy features of Old Town Veracruz. Make a stop by Veracruz Harbour or Zócalo while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Los Portales
While visiting Los Portales, you might make a stop by sights like Zócalo and Palacio Municipal.
Malecon
Malecon is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Veracruz Harbour or Veracruz Aquarium.
Faros
If you're spending some time in Faros, Veracruz Harbour and Carranza Lighthouse are top sights worth seeing.
Vista Mar
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Vista Mar and surrounding area, you can visit Laguna de Sontecomapan and Benito Juarez Auditorium.
Ignacio Zaragoza
If you're spending some time in Ignacio Zaragoza, Villa del Mar Beach and Veracruzano Coral Reef System National Park are top sights worth seeing.
