The Palacio Postal, also known as the Quinta Casa de Correos, is a post office that has been in service since the early 20th century. It was designed by Italian architect Adamo Boari, who also designed Palacio de Bellas Artes, with engineer Gonzalo Garita. Its ironwork staircase, marble and skylit hall make it a worthwhile short stop. It’s about 4.2 km from Hotel Emma Boutique, right across from Bellas Artes.
Practical information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from the hotel | About 4.2 km |
| Getting there (summary) | Metro Line 1 from Sevilla to Salto del Agua, then Line 8 to Bellas Artes |
| Hours | Monday to Friday, 8:00 to 16:00, and Saturday, 8:00 to 12:00, according to Mexico City Tourism. Confirm before you go |
| Admission | Free entry to the building |
| Suggested time | 30 to 45 minutes |
Address: Calle de Tacuba 1, at Eje Central, Centro Histórico. It’s a working post office, so mind the lines and service areas.
What to see at the Palacio Postal
- The central ironwork staircase, the building’s most photographed feature.
- The façade, with gargoyles and carved stonework, and the clock brought from Germany.
- Bartolomé Gallotti’s frescoes in the meeting rooms.
- The second-floor museum, with objects and documents from the history of the mail and a room devoted to stamp collecting.
- The post office counters: you can mail a postcard from here.
Getting there from Hotel Emma Boutique
By Metro, with a single transfer:
- Walk 200 m to Sevilla station on Line 1 and ride toward Pantitlán to Salto del Agua, four stops away.
- At Salto del Agua, change to Line 8 toward Garibaldi.
- Get off at Bellas Artes, two stops later, and cross Eje Central to Tacuba street.
By taxi or ride-hailing app it’s about 4 km. Ask to be dropped at Bellas Artes and cross the street: Eje Central is usually busy.
Tips for your visit
- Go on a weekday morning: it’s closed on Sundays and closes at noon on Saturdays.
- Personal photos without flash are the norm; don’t get in the way of people doing their errands.
- Ask at the museum about guided tours: they usually require advance registration.
- Pair it with Palacio de Bellas Artes across the street and with the Palacio de Minería and Plaza Tolsá, one block away.
Nearby
- Palacio de Bellas Artes, across Eje Central.
- Zócalo, about 15 minutes on foot.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Palacio Postal’s opening hours?
According to Mexico City Tourism, Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 16:00 and Saturday from 8:00 to 12:00. It’s closed on Sundays. Confirm before you go.
How much does it cost to visit the Palacio Postal?
Entry to the building is free, since it’s a working post office.
How do I get to the Palacio Postal by Metro?
Take Line 1 at Sevilla to Salto del Agua and Line 8 to Bellas Artes. The Palacio Postal is just across Eje Central.
Where to stay near the historic center?
In Roma Norte, Hotel Emma Boutique is 200 m from Sevilla Metro, one transfer from downtown, in a quieter neighborhood to rest.