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Veracruz and Boca del Rio offer all sorts of attractions for adults and children. You can see important historic landmarks, such as the Fortress of San Juan de Ulua, a panoramic seaside promenade, and the city's Main Square. There is also a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, where many cultural events are held in the evenings, including the displays of "danzon" a typical dance of the region. On the neighboring streets all around the main square, sidewalk cafes inspire never-ending conversations. Located on the southern side of the city, the Veracruz Aquarium is the largest one of its kind in Latin America, and of course, there are the beaches, wide stretches of golden sandy ones in Boca del Rio.
San Juan de Ulua is an impressive 16th century fortress that has inspired quite a few tales and legends. Over the years, this large complex has housed a citadel, a local prison, the president's home, a museum, and has been used as a location for movies or TV programs. It has also been used for state dinners and elegant receptions for important heads of state and monarchs, entertained with magnificent gala concerts. A guided tour of San Juan de Ulua is a must. You'll learn interesting historic facts about this fantastic fortress of the city of Veracruz.
The famous seaside promenade and the Main Square in Veracruz are the heart of the city. Stroll along the seaside promenade and enjoy a stunning view of the Gulf of Mexico as a backdrop. The buildings here reflect a blend of Old World charm and 20th century modernism. A clear example of this is the Pemex Tower and the old Carranza Lighthouse, designed in neo-classic style. Together with the Port of Veracruz and all the cargo ships with their loud sirens, these three attractions make up the most emblematic landmarks of the city of Veracruz.
Veracruz Main Square, also known as the zocalo, is an important public venue for numerous cultural events. You can listen to the local band play classic danzon tunes like "Nereidas " here nightly, inviting the audience to dance, if they care to. Right next to Main Square and city hall are the famous Veracruz Arches, known as Los Portales, a popular place for eating and drinking, where patrons are entertained by beautiful marimba music. Locals and tourists alike gather here late in the afternoons or evenings to chat, catch up on the latest news, or simply to enjoy a cold beer.
Main Square is host to different traditional events and celebrations during the Carnival of Veracruz every year, such as the coronation of the king and queen of the carnival, the burning of "El Mal Humor" (bad temper), and the burial of Juan Carnival. The Port of Veracruz lights up with the celebration of the carnival, welcoming visitors to the most exciting carnival in Mexico.
A visit to the Veracruz Aquarium is a fun learning experience. Besides developing an environmental conscience, visitors get to see a number of marine species, such as manatees, turtles, and sharks (the latter which can measure up to two meters long) as they swim above you in their enormous tanks. Located next door to the aquarium is the Veracruz Wax Museum, an awe-inspiring attraction with a fine collection of life-size wax figures of celebrities and fictional characters, such as Harry Potter, Elvis Presley, Cantinflas, or Pope John Paul II.
There are all sorts of attractions all along the coast on the beautiful beaches of Veracruz for all tastes and budgets. There is a yacht club near the seaside promenade with numerous private boats, some of which can be chartered for a trip to the Veracruz Reef System, an underwater natural attraction, ideal for snorkeling or diving because of its countless colorful tropical fish, and coral formations, home to all sorts of marine species native to these shallow waters.
Within the Veracruz Reef System is an area known to local fishermen as "Cancuncito" because of its crystal clear blue waters that resemble the beaches of Cancun. Featuring soft white sand and a distinct turquoise color, the waters of this beach are similar to the ones in Cancun.
Boca del Rio belongs to another township, although it is found within the city of Veracruz. Boca del Rio features exemplary regional cuisine, made with the freshest fish and seafood, both fresh and salt water varieties from the sea, coastal lagoons and the Jamapa River. If you enjoy peace and quiet, fine beaches, and savory seafood dishes, don't miss out on going to Boca del Rio.
Veracruz welcomes couples on a romantic hideaway, families with children, as well as singles on a holiday getaway. Veracruz awaits you with its many attractions, as well as long days of sunbathing on fabulous sunny beaches, several museums and cultural attractions, the largest aquarium in all of Latin America and rich folklore. Come to Veracruz on your next vacation. You won't regret it!
