Puebla, Mexico — As excitement builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the state of Puebla is positioning itself as a strategic cultural and tourism hub by proposing a new tourist route connecting Puebla with Cancun. The initiative, announced on October 2, 2025, aims to attract international visitors traveling to Mexico for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The proposal was unveiled by Marta Ornelas Guerrero, Puebla’s Secretary of Tourism, during a press conference at the International Tourism Fair in Mexico City. She emphasized that the route would showcase Puebla’s rich colonial heritage, gastronomy, and artisanal traditions, while offering travelers a seamless connection to the beaches and resorts of Cancun.
The route would include curated stops in Cholula, Atlixco, and Cuetzalan, with transportation options ranging from charter flights to luxury buses. Officials are also exploring partnerships with airlines and travel agencies to offer bundled packages that include accommodations, guided tours, and match tickets.
“Puebla has everything to complement the World Cup experience—culture, cuisine, and history,” Ornelas stated. “By linking with Cancun, we create a dynamic corridor that benefits both regions.”
The initiative aligns with Mexico’s broader strategy to leverage the World Cup for tourism growth, especially in cities not hosting matches. While Puebla is not a designated host city, officials hope the route will draw fans seeking post-match excursions or alternative destinations.
The plan is currently under review by federal tourism authorities and is expected to launch in May 2026, just weeks before the tournament begins.
If approved, the Puebla-Cancun route could become a model for regional tourism integration, offering visitors a deeper, more diverse experience of Mexico beyond the stadiums.
Source: Milenio
