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Square · Veracruz, Veracruz
Zócalo and Portales of Veracruz
Main square of Veracruz, with the cathedral, the municipal palace and arcaded portals full of cafés, where marimbas play and danzón is danced at night.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Zócalo and Portales of Veracruz
The Zócalo, also called Plaza de Armas, is the center of life in Veracruz. The square is planted with trees, has palm trees, a fountain and a bandstand, and is surrounded by the city’s oldest buildings.
On the east side is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, from the 18th century, with a white façade and a dome covered in tiles. On the north side, the municipal palace, dating to 1608, is one of the oldest civic buildings on the continent, with a tower and arcades.
In the portals, the arcades around the square, there are cafés and restaurants with sidewalk tables. In the evening, marimba and música jarocha groups play from table to table, and on some nights the square hosts danzón dances with couples of all ages.
Near the Zócalo are the malecón, the harbor and the Gran Café de la Parroquia, one of the city’s traditional cafés.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours.
Best time
At night, when the square fills with music and locals; to enter the cathedral, prefer the morning when it’s less busy.
How to get there
It is in Veracruz’s historic center, a few blocks from the malecón. It is reached on foot.
Tip
Order a café con leche at one of the square’s cafés and watch the danzón dance when it takes place.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Zócalo and Portales of Veracruz
What is in the Zócalo of Veracruz?
The cathedral, the municipal palace, the arcades with cafés, and the bandstand.
When is there danzón in the Zócalo?
On some nights of the week, with couples dancing in the square.
Is the Zócalo near the malecón?
Yes, a few blocks away.