The historic centre of Veracruz is compact and easy to walk — the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, the Baluarte de Santiago, and the waterfront are all within ten minutes of each other on foot. The malecón runs along the harbor and is a pleasant way to walk north toward San Juan de Ulúa or south toward the aquarium. Taxis are cheap and reliable for longer distances; agree on a fare before getting in or look for metered cabs.
Local buses run from the centre south to Boca del Río, a coastal neighbourhood with a string of seafood restaurants. For the aquarium, which is on the malecón south of the centre, a taxi or a short bus ride is easier than walking. The San Juan de Ulúa fortress is across the causeway from the commercial port and is most easily reached by taxi.