Hotel Lastra is on the Los Fuertes hill ("the forts"), where the battle of Cinco de Mayo was fought. In addition to the ruins and other historical attractions, the hill now has coffee shops, stores, events, a paddle-boat lake, a new elevated tram, a walking exploration of Puebla's history, a bike path, and beautiful views of the surrounding city.
The hotel has been mostly renovated, and now contains a nice outdoor pool, gardens, heated outdoor sitting areas, a restaurant, and a bar.
Walking down the hill rather than up it, it is a 5 minute walk to the San Francisco mall. In addition to great restaurants (such as La Purificadora) and stores, this mall is also historical, featuring restored colonial-era Spanish ruins, some of which are presented under glass flooring as you walk the mall area.