best travel places mexico

21 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Mexico

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Mar 1, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Mexico is a country that will take your breath away. It's a country that has something to please absolutely everyone, from endless sunshine to stunning scenery, beautiful sandy beaches , gourmet cuisine, culture, art, festivals, mountains, and so much more.

So important are Mexico's ancient Aztec and Mayan sites and historic colonial cities that many have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites , ensuring they'll remain unchanged for generations to come. Interestingly, these Mayan ruins – including places like Guanajuato, Chichén Itzá, and Uxmal – are often as popular as traditional beach vacation spots like Cancún, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen.

Of course, Mexico has some of the most modern and vibrant cities in the world, too, from its capital, Mexico City to smaller urban hotspots like Guadalajara, Guanajuato, and Monterrey.

Topping the whole experience is the country's rich culture, a fascinating mix of native people, as well as colonial influences from Spain, that shows up in everything from the country's culinary creations to its vibrant music and dance traditions. It's also a country rich in flora and fauna, as it is spread across climate zones that encompass everything from arid deserts to lush tropical rainforests.

To ensure you plan the very best Mexican travel itinerary possible, check out our list of the best places to visit in Mexico.

1. Cancún and the Mayan Riviera

2. puerto vallarta, 3. cabo san lucas, san jose del cabo, and the los cabos corridor, 4. copper canyon: mexico's grand canyon, 5. mexico city's historic center, 6. chichén itzá: the mayan metropolis, 7. guanajuato, 8. ixtapa and zihuatanejo, 9. the ancient fortress of tulum, 10. cozumel: island life, 11. guadalajara, 12. mérida: yucatán's white city, 13. oaxaca: a taste of real mexico, 14. historic morelia, 15. riviera nayarit, 16. mazatlan, 17. cenotes, yucatan peninsula, 18. costa oaxaquena, 19. palenque, chiapas, 20. isla holbox, 21. huasteca potosina, san luis potosi.

For most first-timers to Mexico, their first stop will be Cancun or the surrounding beach towns up and down the coast of what is called the Mexican Caribbean, or the Riviera Maya . Cancun's airport is the second busiest in the country and it's all because tourists are flocking to the powder-white beaches , all-inclusive resorts, and endless activities.

The top destinations in the Mexican Caribbean are Cancun, Playa del Carmen , Tulum , and the island of Cozumel . But you'll find many other smaller destinations worth a visit, too, like the small village of Puerto Morelos , the tiny island of Isla Mujeres , and the magnificent turquoise-colored lake, Laguna de Bacalar.

My favorite things to do in the Riviera Maya are to pop in and out of the small coastal towns to escape the business of the main cities. Puerto Morelos is a must for its white-sand beaches, sandy streets, outdoor cafes, and small boutique shops. I also really love the village of Bacalar that sits overlooking the lagoon. Go here for raw, unspoiled nature, epic sunsets over the lake, and a rising boutique hotel scene.

But Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum are positively brimming with fun things to do, such as dolphin and stingray swims; snorkeling among reefs and tropical fish; as well as scuba diving in the world's largest underwater museum, a spectacular collection of sculptures submerged at depths of up to eight meters.

Then, of course, the region has many ancient Mayan ruins , with some of the closest sites within walking distance of the beaches, while the largest and most impressive – Chichén Itzá and Tulum – are just a few hours away.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cancún

Puerto Vallarta started as a small fishing village, drawing visitors with its broad beaches and misty, jungle-covered mountains. Today it's one of the largest and fastest-growing coastal cities in the country , expanding at lightning speed and catering to every type of traveler. Still, Puerto Vallarta has protected pockets of untouched architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic homes, so you'll still be able to catch a glimpse of its fishing village vibes. I loved it so much that I now call it home and spend about three to six months there every year.

Nowadays, thanks to the many things to do in Puerto Vallarta , the city is as likely to attract an older cruise ship audience looking to swim with the dolphins as it is younger travelers looking for adventure, found here in activities as diverse as paragliding and jet skiing.

The best introduction to Puerto Vallarta begins in the Zona Romantica, the oldest part of the city . Here you'll find narrow, cobblestone streets that zig-zag up into the mountains. Walking the streets of the Zona Romantica, be sure to drink in the gorgeous colors, from the purple bougainvillea blossoms to the burnt orange of the terracotta tile roofs.

Other great neighborhoods to explore include Centro for the famous crown-topped Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Cinco de Diciembre for the shopping and beaches, and Versalles for its thriving restaurant scene. You'll also have the marina and Hotel Zone for more high-end shopping and fabulous resorts.

Of course, like any good resort destination in Mexico, you can't leave the city without visiting the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta . The beaches in the Zona Romantica are the busiest, thanks to a long string of open-air restaurants that runs along the length of the coastline. For quieter beaches, head north along the bay back towards the airport and the marina. Beaches like Playa Camarones, for example, are much quieter and cater to a local crowd.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Resorts in Puerto Vallarta

At the southern tip of the beautiful Baja Peninsula, Los Cabos – often referred to simply as "Cabo" – is one of Mexico's top beach destinations. Consisting of a large stretch of coastline that extends from the towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo and known as the Los Cabos Corridor (Corredor Turistico), this 30-kilometer stretch of pristine beaches attracts visitors the world over for its clear waters, diving, snorkeling, and fishing (it also hosts the world's largest marlin contest).

What I love most about Cabo is its landscape. The drive from the airport down the corridor towards Los Cabos is one of the most beautiful stretches of natural beauty, with endless views of saguaro cacti, red rock desert mountains, and crashing cobalt-colored sea.

Cabo has so many fantastic things to do , as well, from visiting the natural rock formations at El Arco de Cabo San Lucas , to swimming and snorkeling on its calmer beaches. Keep in mind, many of the beaches around the peninsula are not safe for swimming. But a handful of beaches are renowned for their warm, calm, cove-like waters and fantastic snorkeling conditions. Playa Chileno is one of my favorites.

For some of Los Cabos' history and culture, the city of San Jose del Cabo is perfect. Its downtown has cobblestone streets, a massive main square, and dozens of art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques. San Jose del Cabo is my favorite place to visit when I'm visiting the Los Cabos destination, particularly for its farm-to-table food scene at places like Flora Farms, Acre, and Tamarindos .

Numerous resorts have sprung up that cater to all tastes and budgets, from luxurious spas to golf-centered properties offering some of the best courses in North America. For the most part, however, Los Cabos most appeals to big-budget travelers. It is one of the luxury capitals of Mexico.

Read More: Baja Road Trip: Driving from San Jose del Cabo to Rosarito

Chihuahua, one of Mexico's most northerly states – it shares the border with New Mexico in the US – is home to one of the country's most visited natural attractions, the stunning Copper Canyon (Barranca del Cobre).

Located in a region known as the Sierra Madre Occidental and consisting of a spectacular group of deep canyons, Copper Canyon is in fact larger and deeper than its better-known cousin, the Grand Canyon. Taking its name from the distinctive copper-green coloring along its steep canyon walls, these amazing natural structures were formed by six rivers that converge in the Rio Fuerte before draining into the Gulf of California.

Thanks to the area's increased popularity as a travel destination, there are numerous options available to those wanting to explore this area of outstanding natural beauty, from scenic rail trips aboard the Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico to more adventurous excursions by bike or even on horseback.

Mexico City is one of my favorite cities in the world. I'd argue that Mexico City can compare with some of the world's most famous and iconic historic capitals like Paris, Rome, and London. This thriving, ancient city is stunningly beautiful, rich with history and culture, and buzzing with some of the world's best restaurants and hotels.

Mexico City (Ciudad de México) is not only the capital of the country and the seat of government, but it is also one of the country's most popular alternative travel destinations thanks to its many world-class museums, art galleries, and attractions. Don't be put off by its size. Instead, focus your efforts on the historic city center (Centro Histórico de la Ciudad), a 15-square-kilometer UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting more than 1,400 important colonial buildings from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

It's here, you'll find most of Mexico City's major highlights , many within walking distance of Constitution Square (Plaza de la Constitución, or the Zocalo), the city's bustling main plaza, including the National Palace , the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor with its Aztec relics. Adding to the whole experience are the huge volcanic mountains overlooking the city, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl , each over 5,000 meters tall and offering a perfect excuse to get out and explore the stunning scenery in this part of the Mexican Highlands.

Tip: Head to the rooftop restaurant at the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico for one of the best views over the Zocalo. At night, you'll have a front-row seat for the colorful lights that cast an impressive glow over the centuries-old buildings.

A popular day trip for those visiting Cancún and Playa del Carmen or the Yucatán capital of Mérida , the magnificent Mayan city of Chichén Itzá is one of Mexico's most visited archaeological sites, as well as one of the biggest and best restored. Highlights of a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site are numerous. A must-see here is the massive El Castillo , also known as the Pyramid of Kukulkán, and at 30 meters high, the site's tallest structure.

Another noteworthy point of interest here is the magnificent Caracol , an almost 1,000-year-old observatory that stands a testament to just how advanced the Mayans were. The building is notable for the narrow slits in its walls allowing the sun to penetrate twice per year, so priests could accurately determine the date. Also of interest are the site's numerous statues, including many examples of the famous Mayan Chacmools holding their sacrificial vessels as they continue to protect these old temples.

• Read More: Visiting Chichén Itzá from Cancún: Highlights, Tips & Tours

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its many old colonial buildings, winding lanes, and narrow alleys, Guanajuato is a city that just begs to be explored on foot. A particularly pleasurable experience is visiting its many plazas, including the delightful Jardin de la Union , the city's main square with its splendid old architecture. It's here, you'll find the beautiful old San Diego Church and the majestic Juárez Theater , along with fountains and flower beds, cafés, and restaurants.

Afterward, head underground to the city's subterranean streets, part of a network of tunnels that once carried a river but are now used by cars and pedestrians wanting to get around the city quickly.

Known as an art city, Guanajuato is home to many fine galleries, as well as interesting museums, none more so than the Museum of Quixote , dedicated to the works of Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes. The city also hosts Latin America's most important festival in honor of the writer, the International Cervantino Festival . And if you've got the stomach for it, check out the city's famous Mummies of Guanajuato exhibit, with its many naturally mummified remains of locals who died during an outbreak of cholera in the mid-19th century.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Guanajuato

While there's no denying the appeal of Mexico's larger beach resorts, there's much to be said for paying a visit to some of the country's many smaller vacation destinations. Two of the very best are the towns of Ixtapa and its neighbor, the much smaller former fishing village of Zihuatanejo on the country's Pacific coast.

Although the larger of the two, the former coconut and mango-producing town of Ixtapa has been carefully master-planned as a tourist hub to good effect – its streets and beaches are uncluttered and easy to get around. Be sure to book one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Ixtapa.

The contrast to traditional beach resorts is even greater in beautiful Zihuatanejo, which has worked hard to keep its small-town feel. Still, the town offers a lengthy list of things to do . Lying along a small, well-protected bay, it's a delightful and safe town to explore, home to a number of fine hotels and restaurants. Fun activities include shopping in its fish market or, better still, taking a fishing excursion to catch something of your own.

Famous as the only fortified Mayan settlement located on the coast, the ancient city of Tulum is one of the Yucatán Peninsula's most visited attractions. In the Mayan Riviera and within easy reach of the beaches of Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel, the site's well-preserved ruins can be seen for miles around due to their location atop 12-meter-high cliffs overlooking the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

Tulum is also famous for its tall walls, giving the site the feel of a fortress and suggesting a military, as well as religious significance. Dating from the 13th century, the town was inhabited up until the Spanish arrived in 1544 and contains many other important archaeological finds, including the Temple of the Frescoes (Templo de los Frescos), with its sculptures and reliefs, and the Castillo , the site's largest building, famous for its cliff-side location.

• Read More: Visiting Tulum: Attractions, Tips & Tours

The island of Cozumel has pretty much everything needed for a perfect Mexican getaway. Located 20 kilometers from the Yucatán Peninsula, this lush tropical paradise takes its name from the ancient Mayan, "Ah-cuzamil," which translated means "land of the swallows," and has long been inhabited. And while the first visitors to the island were reputedly Mayan pilgrims, followed by European smugglers and pirates, modern-day travelers are drawn here by the promise of endless sunshine. The top beaches for these sun-seekers are Playa San Juan , Playa San Francisco , and Playa Santa Rosa , to name but a few.

Many are attracted to Cozumel by the superlative diving experiences to be enjoyed around its coral reefs. These beautiful locations are rich with fish and other marine life, and it's relatively easy to include at least a little underwater activity by booking a diving experience through your resort (or ahead of your travel), or simply grabbing a pair of flippers and a mask when you get here.

If you're into serious diving, head to the Palancar Reef on the southwest tip of the island. Here, you'll be rewarded with an undulating seabed that plunges from its shallow spots to depths of 80 meters. A relatively new experience includes diving around man-made landmarks, including sculptures and bronze figures, as well as structures deposited to encourage coral growth.

Be sure to drag yourself away from the island's crystal-clear waters long enough to see at least a little of the island's capital, San Miguel de Cozumel. Here, you can grab a ferry for a day trip to either Playa del Carmen or Cancún , or explore top tourist attractions such as the Island Museum with its fascinating displays relating to the island's history, or partake in some shopping or dining.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Cozumel

Second only to Mexico City in size, Guadalajara, the capital of the state of Jalisco, has successfully conserved its unique mix of colonial and native Tapatíos influences. Famous for its broad avenues flanked by picturesque parks and fine old buildings notable for their European flair, Guadalajara is a hotbed of traditional Mexican culture, from the mariachi music that seems to emanate everywhere, to its fascinating Charreadas, a type of rodeo that is usually accompanied by festivities such as dancing, singing, and plenty of great food.

It's a fun city to explore on foot due to the four large squares that together form the shape of a cross and comprise the old city center. The best of them, Plaza de Armas , is the perfect place to begin a sightseeing tour and includes such notable buildings as the 17th-century Government Palace (Palacio de Gobierno) and the beautiful Baroque Guadalajara Cathedral (Catedral de Guadalajara), built between 1558 and 1616.

Whenever I visit Guadalajara, I like to explore the Colonia Americana neighborhood , which is within walking distance of Centro. Its leafy, tree-lined streets are flanked by great restaurants and galleries, and it has some of the best hotels in the city. Villa Ganz Boutique Hotel is a personal favorite, housed in a 1930s villa with a beautiful and tranquil backyard.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Guadalajara

The capital of Yucatán, Mérida is one of Mexico's finest old colonial cities and is perfectly located to serve as a base from which to explore the region's many fine Mayan sites, including Chichén Itzá and Tulum. It's an equally popular day trip or overnight stopover from the resorts of the Mayan Riviera. Established in 1542 by the Spanish, Mérida is laid out on a grid pattern, making it easy to explore its numerous attractive parks and fine old buildings.

European influences are everywhere, particularly in the old city squares and plazas where evidence of French architecture can still be seen. It's also a remarkably neat and tidy city, something of a badge of honor for its citizens who like to dress in white, giving the city its long-standing nickname of Ciudad Blanca, the "white city."

My favorite place to hang out in Merida is near the Parque de Santa Lucia . Not far from the broad and historic Paseo de Montejo Boulevard, and close to the shopping and restaurants of Calle 59, Parque Santa Lucia is in the heart of the action and a nice, shady spot to escape the infamous Merida humidity.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Mérida

Capital of the state of the same name, Oaxaca is one of the most popular city destinations for travelers interested in sampling a taste of the real Mexico. An interesting mix of native indigenous and Spanish elements, the city has remained largely untouched by the kind of large developments that have sprung up in some of the country's other popular destinations, and as a consequence, it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

In addition to its unspoiled city center and old architecture, the city has become a cultural hub that draws crowds for its numerous events and festivals, including the spectacular Guelaguetza , an indigenous festival that takes place each July and includes traditional dancing, costumes, music, food, and crafts. The city also makes a great jumping-off point to explore the splendid surrounding scenery, along with numerous ancient ruins such as those of the Monte Alban .

One of my favorite things to do in Oaxaca is to take a trip to the magical Hierve El Agua natural mineral pools . These beautiful clifftop pools , which are open to the public for swimming, have spectacular views out over the surrounding valley and mountains. Even more impressive, from a distance, the spillage from the pool has calcified to the cliff below, creating the illusion of a waterfall frozen in time.

If you happen to extend your stay in Oaxaca, it's worth a trip down the mountains to the coast to experience some of the state's very best beaches .

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Oaxaca

A gem of a city, the colonial-era Morelia is a delightful place to linger in Mexico, whether you're here for a few days or longer. Little change has been made to the layout of this historic city, founded in 1541, and thanks to the more than 200 well-preserved buildings that date back many hundreds of years, the entire downtown core has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

A highlight of a visit is spending time in the magnificent Plaza de Armas . Laid out nearly 500 years ago, this large public square is perfect for those who like to explore on foot. In addition to its many great cafés, restaurants, and shopping opportunities, here you'll find everything from statues of revolutionary heroes to attractive stretches of gardens and pleasant fountains, making for one of the prettiest cityscapes in all of Mexico.

Nearby attractions you'll want to visit include the attractive Morelia Cathedral , built from local stone over a period of 100 years, starting in 1640, and still dominating the skyline to this day. Be sure to pop inside, too, and spend time examining interesting features, including its amazing artwork. A short walk from here is another must-see: the Morelia Aqueduct . Completed in 1789 and featuring over 250 arches, it, too, was built of local stone, and for years was the city's main source of drinking water.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Morelia

If you haven't heard of it yet, chances are you will very soon. Riviera Nayarit is the stretch of coastline north of Puerto Vallarta that begins in the neighboring state of Nayarit. Familiar towns that stick out might include Sayulita , or the luxury enclave peninsula that is Punta Mita. But Riviera Nayarit has so much more to explore and is practically overgrown with natural beauty.

While Puerto Vallarta was building and expanding, surfers for decades have been flocking to the jungle-beaten paths and virgin beaches to the north. The picture is a little different these days, as once-fishing villages have turned to sleepy boutique hotel towns. Five-star resorts and villas dot the hillsides, and former surf towns have been reinvented as havens for yoga retreats and boho-chic galleries. The ultra-high-end luxury is well on its way.

Still, the more north you go up the coast, the more you'll be traveling back in time to a simpler time of Mexico beach beauty – complete with rolling, emerald-colored peaks, craggy cliffs that plummet into the ocean, and nothing but a string of shady palapas along golden-colored sand, as far as the eye can see.

A personal favorite along the Riviera Nayarit is the small village of San Pancho . It neighbors Sayulita, but receives a fraction of the tourists and is geared much more toward travelers "in the know." Things are changing, and soon San Pancho will be less of a well-kept secret, but for now, it's one of those coastal gems that makes you feel like you have the entire place to yourself.

I adore Mazatlan. In my opinion, it is one of the most underrated places to visit in Mexico . It's one of the only historic cities on the sea, which means visitors to Mazatlan have the best of both worlds. Starting from the Centro Historico, you can walk the cobblestone streets of Mazatlan's history. The Spanish colonial architecture reveals beautifully decorated cathedrals, broad plazas, and buildings bathed in bright, almost vibrating, colors.

The Centro Historico is where you'll find the charming, boutique hotels of Mazatlan, as well as its best restaurants. Directly across the main street from the historic downtown is a stretch of beautiful shoreline, which is a rarity in Mexico's historic cities.

Be sure to explore the Plaza Machado , surrounded by historic buildings, and home to the beautiful Angela Peralta theater. A walk around the square will get you to the heart of the city, and it's one of the most vibrant places for street performers, arts and crafts fairs, murals, and much more.

Up the coast is where the beach resorts can be found. These all-inclusive beachfront resorts have beautiful pools, rooms with strong air-conditioning, and sweeping views out to the Pacific. Mazatlan is also a wonderful home base for outdoor activity, from surfing and hiking to ATVing on the beach.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Mazatlan

One of the best things to do in Mexico is to head underground into its mysterious world of cenotes. Most prevalent on the Yucatan peninsula, Cenotes are large sinkholes in the earth that give entrance to a web of underground rivers and caves carved out of the ancient limestone bedrock. You can find more than 6,000 cenotes in this part of Mexico.

The Mayan people believed that cenotes were the entrance to the underworld, and are still considered to be sacred spots. Many of them are on privately owned land and are protected, but visitors can explore them through organized tours. The gorgeous, crystal-clear pools of water are mesmerizing and can be wonderful places to visit for snorkeling or scuba diving.

Exploring the caves underneath the earth's surface is another popular activity, with centuries-old stalactites and stalagmites that give these cavernous spaces an eerie, other-worldly vibe.

Down from the mountains of Oaxaca City – a 10-hour bus ride, to be exact – the elevation descends rapidly towards the stunning coast of Oaxaca. This stretch of the Pacific is one of the last wild coasts of Mexico. Over the years, it has managed to evade mass development, remaining one of the truest, raw, and wild places to experience undeveloped beaches.

The main town along the Oaxacan coast is Huatulco , a series of nine bays carved out of the coastline. Here is where you will find the majority of hotels and restaurants, as well as a port. As you go farther north, things become much more rugged and remote. You'll pass through the hippie beach havens of Mazunte and Zipolite, before you reach the surf mecca of Puerto Escondido.

Puerto Escondido, or "Puerto" to the locals, is my favorite spot along the entire Oaxacan coastline . Stroll along Playa Zicatela, the main beach in Puerto. This is where the famous Mexican Pipeline crashes just offshore, and is the best place for surfing in all of Mexico . The beach is strewn with lively restaurants, swimwear boutiques, and spots for a fresh juice or acai bowl.

Today Puerto Escondido is seeing a flurry of hotel and restaurant development, and before long it will probably become one of the many Tulums of Mexico, with boutique hotels, trendy restaurants, and shopping. But the spaces in between these hives of activity are where you truly get lost in the craggy, mountainous splendor of the Oaxacan coast.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Puerto Escondido

The beauty of Mexico's Mayan ruins is that many remain tucked away in thick, lush jungle. Coming upon them only helps to set the tone of these "lost" cities. Palenque, located in the jungles of the southern state of Chiapas, is one of the most magical Mayan archaeological sites. And seeing as it's not as easy to get to as Tulum or Chichen Itza, you'll feel like you've stepped into another world when you visit.

The ruins of Palenque date back more than 1,000 years and are thought to be one of the rival cities with other Mayan cities like Calakmul and Tonina. The site is most famous for its Temple of the Inscriptions, a pyramid temple with hieroglyphics that have been integral in helping archaeologists interpret the Mayan language.

A huge portion of the city remains unexplored, the rest shrouded in the surrounding jungle. Still, what has been uncovered is breathtaking to explore.

Flecked off the northeastern corner of the Yucatan peninsula, Isla Holbox is about as close as Mexico gets to its own Caribbean island. The car-free, skinny barrier island is accessed via a very quick ferry ride from the port town of Chiquila.

Once on-island, visitors will find the pace slows way down. Sandy roads run the length of the island, from the small main town all the way to the farther, palm-fringed reaches. This island is all about taking it slow, from the daily yoga activities to the laid-back beach restaurants and boutique hotels.

Barefoot and casual, this island has long been on the backpacker and digital nomad trail. It started to gain serious traction in the last few years, and more brand hotels are taking interest in it. But for now, it still remains one of the best-kept secrets along the Mexican Caribbean.

Mexico has many deep canyons and raging rivers, but none is as beautiful as the La Huasteca Potosina region. The Huasteca region of Mexico is the area home to the Indigenous Huasteca people, and it spans many states. But the region in the state of San Luis Potosi is particularly known for its epic waterfalls.

This hot and humid jungle is simply bursting with tropical flowers that explode from the thick, green foliage. Its veins are coursing with bright blue water, which give way to beautiful ribbons of gushing falls – and swimming holes to go along with them.

Huasteca Potosina is not terribly convenient to get to, but it is particularly appealing to adventure travelers who want to see a side of Mexico that few international travelers get to experience.

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Palm-fringed beaches, chili-spiced cuisine, steamy jungles, teeming cities, fiesta fireworks: Mexico conjures diverse, vivid dreams – and then delivers them.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tulum Ruins

Tulum is one of the most visited archaeological zones in Mexico and for good reason: it’s sublime. The ruins sit on seaside cliffs, high above turquoise…

Parque Nacional Isla Contoy

A white sand beach with manta rays gliding through the shimmering turquoise waters. No hotels. No nightclubs. No roads or cars of any kind. It’s hard to…

Teotihuacán

North of Mexico City

This fabulous archaeological zone lies in a mountain-ringed offshoot of the Valle de México. Site of the huge Pirámides del Sol y de la Luna (Pyramids of…

Wandering barefoot through the contemporary art museum at Azulik hotel, you feel like you’re in a giant cocoon. Nature surrounds you, inside and out:…

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Alameda Central

Immense murals by world-famous Mexican artists dominate the top floors of this splendid white-marble palace – a concert hall and arts center commissioned…

Jardín Botánico de Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta

For a change of scenery from the beach, head for the tropical highlands of the Sierra Madre mountains and wander the well-curated Jardín Botánico de…

Museo Maya de Cancún

Surrounded by dense tropical forest, the contemporary Museo Maya de Cancún is a welcome respite from the beach and buffet lines of the neighboring high…

Home to a small fishing community, the picturesque beach of Yelapa hugs an emerald coastline backed by jungle-shrouded mountains. The remote coastal…

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Oaxaca City

Looking for cheap street food? Look no further. Dozens of good, clean comedores (food stalls) fill this large market where wait staff will thrust menus to…

Museo del Tequila y el Mezcal

Centro Histórico

This museum on Plaza Garibaldi has exhibits explaining the origins and production process of Mexico’s two most popular distilled agave drinks. The tour…

Los Danzantes

Excellent Mexican fusion food in a spectacular architect-designed patio makes Los Danzantes one of Oaxaca’s special dining spots. The hierba santa …

Museo Frida Kahlo

Coyoacán & San Ángel

Renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo was born in, and lived and died in, Casa Azul (Blue House), now a museum. Almost every visitor to Mexico City makes a…

Instituto Cultural de Cabañas

Guadalajara

Standing proudly at the eastern end of dramatic Plaza Tapatía is one of Guadalajara’s architectural landmarks, and a Unesco World Heritage site since 1997…

Templo Mayor

Before the Spaniards demolished it, the Aztec 'Great Temple' Teocalli of Tenochtitlán covered the site where the cathedral now stands, as well as the…

Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso

Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco and David Siqueiros painted murals here in the 1920s. Most of the work on the main patio is by Orozco; look for the…

Plaza Garibaldi

Every night the city’s mariachi bands belt out heartfelt ballads in this festive square. Wearing silver-studded outfits, they toot their trumpets and tune…

Jardín Etnobotánico

In former monastic grounds behind the Templo de Santo Domingo, this garden features plants from around Oaxaca state, including a staggering variety of…

Xochimilco Canals

Mexico City

Hundreds of colorful trajineras (gondolas) await passengers at the village’s 10 embarcaderos to paddle you through the waterways dotted with birdlife and…

Plaza de los Mariachis

Just south of Avenida Javier Mina and the Mercado San Juan de Dios, this is the very birthplace of mariachi music. By day it’s just a narrow walking…

Los Cocuyos

Suadero (beef) tacos abound in the capital, but this always-open stand reigns supreme. Follow your nose to the bubbling vat of meats and go for the artery…

Auto-mechanic shop by day, taco diner by night. No worries, though: the experts slicing down those excellent al pastor (spit-cooked pork) tacos aren't the…

Playa Carrizalillo

Puerto Escondido

Small is beautiful at Carrizalillo, set in a sheltered cove west of the center that's reached by a stairway of 157 steps. It’s popular for swimming and…

Museo Memoria y Tolerancia

A mazelike, unique museum of 55 halls dedicated to preserving the memory of genocide victims. The multimedia exhibit chronicles crimes committed against…

Museo de la Tortura

Displaying European torture instruments from the 14th to 19th centuries, including a metal-spiked interrogation chair and the menacing skull splitter,…

Museo de Arte Popular

A major showcase for folk art, this is a colorful museum that even kids love. Crafts are thematically displayed from all over Mexico, including carnival…

Mano Santa Mezcal

Often compared to having a drink at home because of the cheap, quality mezcal (or because you live in a designer-school laboratory), this small bar…

Museo de la Revolución

This pockmarked 19th-century house was the scene of the first battle of the 1910 Revolution. The renovated house retains its bullet holes and some…

Blink and you might walk right past the coolest neighborhood mezcalería in town. Behind the Bósforo’s nondescript curtain await top-notch mezcals, an…

Por Siempre Vegana Taquería

Vegans can join in the street-food action with soy and gluten taco versions of al pastor, loganiza (sausage) and chorizo. The late-night experience is…

Museo Mural Diego Rivera

This museum is home to one of Diego Rivera’s most famous works, Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the…

Museo del Calzado El Borceguí

At this shoe museum – and the oldest shoemaker in Mexico, operating since 1865 – there are over 2000 pieces of footwear on show, many from famous feet…

Pirámide Tepanapa

The incredible Pirámide Tepanapa looks more like a hill than a pyramid, but it's still the town's big draw, and with miles of tunnels veining the inside…

Mercado Medellin

Self-caterers can stop into this colorful market for quality cuts of meat, fresh produce and nuts amongst the piñatas. It's also a popular spot for lunch:…

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Best Things to Do

From swimming in cenotes and eating street food to soaking up the history and culture of this vibrant nation, here are the best things to do in Mexico.

Transportation

From ski slopes and jungle to deserts and sublime stretches of sand, expect to use many transport options to get around the world's 13th biggest country.

Visa Requirements

If you’re planning a vacation in Mexico, these are some of the ins and outs of navigating its visas, tourist permits and more.

Money and Costs

Soak up history and art without spending a cent, and find out how to make every peso stretch further with our top tips for visiting Mexico on a budget.

Traveling with Kids

Family is at the center of daily life in Mexico, and children are warmly welcomed almost everywhere. Here are the top things to do with little ones in tow.

Best Road Trips

Fuel your wanderlust on the open road in Mexico with these epic drives.

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Mexico and beyond

10 Places in Mexico to Visit for Food, Beaches, and Amazing Sights

Here are several places that should be on everyone’s must-visit list..

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Yes, Mexico has superior beaches, but there is much more to the country besides sun and sea.

Courtesy of Roman Lopez/Unsplash

With centuries of Indigenous cultural history, ancient ruins , and resplendent cities, Mexico is brimming with beautiful places. But this can make choosing a place (or several places) to visit in Mexico a challenge. Do you want to spend your days stretched on a beach in the Yucatán Peninsula or in idle relaxation sitting beside a pueblo plaza? Then again, why not both?

To help you decide, here are our top picks for the best places to visit in Mexico.

• Location: Oaxaca
• Come for: a heady mix of traditional and experimental cuisine, ancient ruins, and a vibrant arts scene
• Where to stay: Hotel Sin Nombre

Tucked high up in the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca, Oaxaca is a place where overflowing baskets of spices and textiles sit beside cafés serving up artisanal coffee. Cuisine is a pillar of the city’s soul, whether in the form of crispy, coal-grilled tlayudas on the street or high-brow rooftop cocktails.

A capital for mezcal artistry, Oaxaca is known for its dozens upon dozens of mezcalerias . Pull up a chair at La Mezcalerita , a veritable library of mezcal, with three downstairs rooms and an appealing rooftop patio—perfect for sunset.

How to get to Oaxaca

The most direct way to get to Oaxaca is to fly into the Oaxaca International Airport (OAX). Travelers can also connect in Mexico City for the nearly 90-minute flight.

Drive a couple of hours south of Riviera Maya, Tulum and a wonderful world awaits on the banks of a lagoon.

Courtesy of Liz Aguayo/Unsplash

• Location: Quintana Roo
• Come for: tranquil lagoon life that is still flying relatively far below the typical tourist radar
• Where to stay: Hotel Makaaba Eco-Boutique

Laguna de Bacalar is the second largest lake in Mexico, with colors that change from aquamarine to cobalt because of the different depths of the water, earning it the nickname “The Lake of Seven Colors.” Bacalar has a reputation for eco-friendly resorts, hidden cenotes, and mangrove channels for kayaking. Life is slow-paced here—lights are usually out by 9 p.m., and that’s how the locals like it.

How to get to Bacalar

Bacalar is a four-hour drive south of Cancun, which helps it retain its remote vibe. In December 2023 , the opening of the airport in Tulum will cut that drive nearly in half. Travelers can also fly into the city of Chetumal and drive for 30 minutes.

Barefoot surfers and long-time fishing families commingle on broad beaches where world-famous surf pounds the sand.

Courtesy of Lorraine Mojica/Unsplash

3. Puerto Escondido

• Come for: epic surf and the culture that comes with it, plus undeveloped beaches, bioluminescent bays, and hot springs
• Where to stay: Villas Carrizalillo

Mexico is in a constant state of development and some foreign investors have set their sights on coveted real estate. But in this port town, visitors can still eat fish tacos underneath shady palapas , grab an open-air collective van (a one-way ride will cost roughly 10 pesos), travel to the market downtown, and surf along windswept beaches at dawn, in large part thanks to efforts from tourists, expats, and locals to control development.

How to get to Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido has a very small airport. For an accessible alternative, travelers can connect in Mexico City or Guadalajara. A larger international airport is in Huatulco, which is about 90 minutes away.

Step onto the sugary shores of Isla Holbox and it’s like you’ve stepped into a secret.

Courtesy of Michiel Ton/Unsplash

4. Isla Holbox

• Come for: idyllic car-free island living with spectacular beaches, yoga, and a growing foodie scene
• Where to stay: Ser Casasandra

This island off the coast of the Yucatan peni nsula feels as much Caribbean as it does Mexican, with a blend of car-free streets and the lilt of steel drums. Though admittedly less Robinson Crusoe–esque than it used to be thanks to an infusion of boutique resorts like Nomade Holbox and NÁAY Boutique Hotel Punta Coco, this remains a place for freshly caught and grilled seafood and beaches that seem to stretch on forever.

How to get to Isla Holbox

Fly into Cancun International Airport and take a two-hour taxi, or hop on an ADO bus up for a four-hour ride to Chiquila. From there, take the 15-minute ferry to Isla Holbox.

Puerto Vallarta is a far cry from the quiet fishing community it once was.

Courtesy of Chris McQueen/Unsplash

5. Puerto Vallarta

• Location: Jalisco
• Come for: a beach-meets-city scene where locals and tourists mingle
• Where to stay: Casa Kimberly

Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant mixture of visitors and locals, where bars, restaurants, and shops are unlikely to use U.S. dollars outside of tourist centers. The city buzzes with action, whether through the pulse of the Malecon boardwalk until the wee hours or lively cobblestone streets of Zona Romantica. At the end of the day, travelers can enjoy sunset above the Bay of Banderas.

How to get to Puerto Vallarta

Several U.S. airports, including New York (JFK), San Francisco (SFO), and Los Angeles (LAX) offer direct flights to Puerto Vallarta.

Cancún is a popular place for travelers to the Mexican Caribbean

Courtesy of ams_c/Unsplash

• Come for: all-inclusive hotels, white-sand beaches, and a lively downtown
• Where to stay: Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa

Cancún is what put the Mexican Caribbean on the map, for good reason: Few places offer better white-sand beaches or all-inclusive resorts than this spot on the Yucatán Peninsula. Cancun’s once locals-only downtown is starting to gain traction from travelers who want to venture outside the Hotel Zone. Here, visitors can get another taste of the city when encountering its street art, taco trucks, and bustling markets like Mercado 28.

How to get to Cancun

With the second busiest airport in Mexico , it’s one of the easiest places in the country to access.

Guanajuato offers an explosion of colorful architecture and a maze of cobblestone streets.

Courtesy of gemafv85/Unsplash

7. Guanajuato

• Location: Guanajuato
• Come for: colorful architecture and growing wine tourism
• Where to stay: 1850 Hotel Boutique

Guanajuato is a great jumping-off point for exploring the state’s growing wine route (there are more than 30 wineries in the Guanajuato Grape and Wine Association) as well as regional dishes like enchiladas mineras —head to Enchiladas de Lupe for a delicious one. The city also hosts the annual Festival Internacional Cervantino , which invites musicians, theater performers, and other artists from all over the world to showcase their culture.

How to get to Guanajuato

The main airport in the state of Guanajuato is in Leon, about an hour’s drive from the city. It has a few direct flights from the USA, but travelers can get to the airport with direct flights from Tijuana, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and Monterrey.

This city of more than 9 million people is one of the world’s most exciting and complex.

Courtesy of Bhargava Marripati/Unsplash

8. Mexico City

• Location: Mexico City
• Come for: world-class hotels, museums, and restaurants
• Where to stay in Mexico City: Circulo Mexicano

No visit to Mexico is complete without exploring the world-renowned restaurants , Aztec ruins, and 24/7 vibe of its capital city. Walk around Roma Norte and other vibrant neighborhoods, each one offering something different from the next. Thanks to its efficient (and cost-effective) mass transit, devouring everything from Diego Rivera murals to inventive cocktails from the top floors of luxury hotels is possible.

How to get to Mexico City

Mexico City’s airport has direct flights from all major U.S. gateways.

The food scene in Puebla is one of the best in the country.

Courtesy of srcharls/Unsplash

• Location: Puebla
• Come for: mole, mole, mole!
• Where to stay: Banyan Tree Puebla

Puebla has fostered a scene that is just as proud of its heritage and tradition (it’s said to have a church for every day of the year) as it is of its experimental restaurants, with eateries like Moyuelo and Áttico 303 fusing traditional Mexican ingredients with international techniques and recipes. The city’s kitchens and street carts offer temptations like mole (a dried chile sauce) in every shade, overstuffed bread roll sandwiches known as cemitas , and tacos arabes stuffed into fluffy lavash-style bread.

How to get to Puebla

Puebla has its own international airport with direct flights from Houston (IAH), but consider flying into Mexico City, which has ample connections. From the Benito Juarez airport, you can hop aboard an express bus and ride two hours to Puebla.

San Jose del Cabo’s art district brims with boutique art galleries and restaurants.

Courtesy of Mary West/Unsplash

10. San José del Cabo

• Location: Baja California Sur
• Come for: Cabo beaches and fantastic dining without the overwhelming hum of tourists
• Where to stay: Acre Baja

Los Cabos consists of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, which are connected by a long stretch of resort-lined roads known as the Tourist Corridor. As Cabo San Lucas is the more visited of the two, San José del Cabo is where travelers go to escape the crowds. Those visiting San José del Cabo can experience a thriving farm-to-table scene thanks to organic farms Flora Farms, Tamarindos, and Acre Baja that double as outdoor restaurants.

How to get to San José del Cabo

San Jose del Cabo’s international airport is the gateway to Los Cabos. It has direct flights from most major U.S. hubs.

36 Best Places To Visit in Mexico in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: April 3, 2024

We have often considered settling down in Mexico when we retire. Each time we visit México, we love it! We haven’t visited everywhere in the country but love to add a new destination each time we go down. So we combined our extensive travels with Nathan of The TRVL Blog to showcase the best places to visit in Mexico.

Table of Contents

Top Places to Visit in Mexico

Mexico is a country made up of 758,000 square miles and 31 states. Bordering the United States and the Latin America countries of Belize and Guatemala, Mexico is a land of pyramids, jungles, beautiful beaches, and sprawling resort towns.

From the bustling capital city, Mexico City, to the quiet towns of Baja California Sur , Mexico gives you all the variety you need. Mexico is diverse and on our list of must-visit places in Mexico, we’ve included a variety of destinations to suit all tastes. So sit back and start planning your trip to Mexico today.

1. Yucatán Peninsula

When exploring the Yucatan, there are so many destinations that it is best to settle on one place as your base so that you can go back again and again. Consisting of the Mexican States of the Yucatan, Quintana Roo, and Campeche chances are you are going to visit the Yucatan Peninsula.

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is by far one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico. Jutting out between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea this beautiful peninsula is the most popular tourist destination in Mexico. It houses some of Mexico’s top attractions and destinations. It houses the popular beach towns of Cancun, Cozumel , Playa Del Carmen and so much more. At 197,000 square km (76,300 square miles) there is a lot to see and do here.

Book this whale shark adventure (that we booked as well) from Cancun . Whale shark tours occur in the Yucatan from May to December. Get Your Guide is the company we went with and they have free cancelation within 24 hours of the tour.

Cancun is the most famous of all the cities in the Yucatan Peninsula. This resort town is party central and a popular tourist destination for students on Spring Break. It was the first place we visited in Mexico and probably the first stop for most people and with good reason.

A lot of people will say not to go to Cancun, but we still like it. We’ve been back a couple of times and Cancun makes for a great base to explore the Mayan Riviera. Read everything to do in Cancun at Best Things to do in Cancun, Mexico

There are plenty of resorts to suit all budgets and types of travel including all inclusive resorts that cater to couples-only and adults-only resorts for a quieter more romantic escape. The last time we visited Cancun we stayed on the Cancun Riviera at The Excellence in nearby Puerto Morales and loved the luxury all-inclusive escape.

From Cancun, there are countless day trips, water sports, adventures, and Mayan ruins to explore. So don’t let its reputation turn you off, it’s popular for a reason. The long stretch of sandy beach along turquoise waters of the Hotel Zone is second to none and the place to stay. Read more: The Best Cancun Day Trips

Our favorite hotels in Cancun are:

• Cancun Excellent Riviera – Adults-Only hotel on the Cancun Riviera. Great food entertainment and luxury rooms. See our video tour here.
• Cancun Moon Palace – Fun atmosphere on Cancun’s South Shore, luxury accommodations yet laid back vibe.
• Hyatt Zilhara Cancun – Adults-only all-inclusive in the heart of the hotel zone of Cancun. We love Hyatt Zilharas throughout the Caribbean
• Read more at: Where to Stay in Cancun: Best Hotels and Areas For Every Budget

Famous for the ancient ruins of Tulum Tulum is located in the south of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.. While these ruins aren’t our favorite in Mexico, they do have the most awe-inspiring setting of all the Mexican ruins .

Sitting atop high cliffs on the Caribbean Sea, the ancient Mayan city of Tulum had the best view in the house. What makes Tulum popular to tourists besides day trips to the ruins, is its stretch of white sandy beaches. Read more: The Best Tulum All Inclusive Resorts

Where to Stay in Tulum

• Generations Riviera Maya Resort  is one of the best all-inclusive resorts if you want to be situated right on the coastline.
• Kore Tulum Retreat  is a stunning adults-only resort amid Tulum’s Hotel Zone. When we say central, we mean it; you are just steps away from Tulum’s archaeological sites. 
• Bahia Principe Grand Tulum  is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Tulum. Its all-inclusive resort package includes all meals – giving you a definite head start on saving money when staying in Tulum.

4. Rio Secreto Cenote

The resorts along its turquoise waters are quieter than the other resort areas making for a more off-the-beaten-path vacation than the busier city of Cancun. If you want to explore Cenotes, this is the place to do it, Tulum has a high concentration of these breathtaking underground sinkholes. Read more: Cenotes in Photos – Discover Mexico’s Extraordinary Underground Caves

One of our first proper scuba diving trips was to Cozumel and with good reason. This island off the east coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula in the Caribbean Sea, Cozumel a popular tourist destination for divers drawing visitors to explore its waters from around the world to view its marine life and coral reefs. This island has some of the best scuba diving on earth within its waters. Don’t worry if you are not a diver, you can go snorkeling as well.

Many people visit Cozumel on a day trip from Cancun or Playa del Carmen, but staying on this island truly has a Caribbean vibe. There are all-inclusive resorts on Cozumel, some small Mayan ruins, and plenty of beautiful beaches. The downtown markets are a fun place to shop and like many Mexican tourist destinations, there’s plenty of nightlife and dining. Read more: The Best Cancun Day Trips

Where to Stay in Cozumel

• Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa : Located on a half-mile of private beach, this luxury resort is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, particularly divers and snorkelers, with the island’s best coral reefs nearby.
• Hotel B Cozumel : Combining traditional Mexican design with contemporary style, this boutique hotel offers a unique, artsy vibe. With a location right on the Caribbean Sea, it features a private beach area, a seaside hot tub, and opportunities for snorkeling.
• Secrets Aura Cozumel : This adults-only all-inclusive resort is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

6. Riviera Maya

This stretch of resort area spans from just south of Cancun to Punta Allen which is south of Tulum. The Riviera Maya, (or Mayan Riviera as we like to call it) in southern Mexico houses the best resorts of Cancun , Playa del Carmen , and Cozumel. Chances are if you are looking for an all-inclusive resort, you will set your sights on the Riviera Maya.

This stretch makes for a great base as most tours pick you up right at your hotel and hotels have shuttles to major attractions. Plus, with its location on the Gulf of Mexico, the waters are warm and calm with coral reefs right off the shore making for the perfect beach vacation. Check out: Rio Secreto Cenote – Mexico’s Magical Underground Caves

7. Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres, “The Island of Women” is mostly visited on a day trip from the mainland but there are resorts on the island where you can stay in paradise.

With white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and an abundance of marine life, it’s perfect for water sports, scuba diving and snorkeling or swimming with sea turtles. it is a quieter place in Mexico for a vacation. (unless you stick around the beach where daytrippers come in to party).

The small island is easy to get around by motorscooter or bicycle making for the perfect laid-back vacation. Isla Mujeres is the jumping-off point for whale shark tours and this once-in-a-lifetime tour is something everyone should do when visiting Mexico. Read more: Swimming with Whale Sharks Cancun – A Massive Adventure

8. Chichen Itza

We were lucky during our visit to the ancient city of Chichen Itzá so many years ago that we could still climb to the top of the Grand Pyramid El Castillo at this UNESCO World Heritage Site then. While you can no longer go up, it is still worth visiting as one of the new 7 Wonders of the World.

This ancient Mayan city is the mother of Mayan Ruins in Mexico with impeccable grounds that have been well preserved.

This is one of the most popular day trips in Mexico and can become very crowded, so if you really want to explore Chichen Itza, consider spending the night nearby so you can get there early to avoid the tour buses. If you want to book a day trip to see it, make sure to combine it with a dip in one of the nearby Cenotes. Read more: 7 Wonders of the World – the New, The Natural, and the Ancient

9. Playa Del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is another famous Mexican beach destination. Located an hour south of Cancun on the Riviera Maya, this is a lovely beach town with plenty of nightlife, shopping, and dining. All of the day trips and activities that you do from Cancun can be done from here and tour operators will pick you up from your hotel.

This resort town has grown a lot over the years and it is no longer the sleepy town we first visited in 1998, but there are still quiet portions. We recommend booking a vacation rental when visiting Playa del Carmen so you can enjoy the beach and the nightlife like a local. Search for places to stay in Playa del Carmen with TripAdvisor.

Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen

• Barcelo Maya Palace – Beautiful all-inclusive luxury resort for families.
• Excellence Riviera – Adults Only hotel with free shuttles.
• Search for more Playa Del Carmen Hotels on Booking.com

10. Los Cabos – Cabo San Lucas

Located on the west coast of Mexico on Baja California Sur, Los Cabos is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico for those living on the West Coast of North America. Los Cabos is a municipality that actually consists of two towns, San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas.

The resort strip of Cabo San Lucas lies between the two towns and is filled with all the activities one would expect on a Caribbean Vacation. Albeit, this body of water is on the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. Cabo San Lucas is a touristy town where you’ll find partying and nightlife whereas the beach town of San Jose del Cabo has a more authentic feel where you can get a taste of true Mexican culture.

Todo Santos and San Jose del Cabo are great alternatives with plenty of accommodation options. Read more: Sea Kayaking Baja Mexico – A Remarkable 10 Day Journey

Where to Stay in Cabos San Lucas

• The Resort at Pedregal : This luxury resort offers an exclusive and secluded setting on a private coastal bluff. It features plunge pools in every room.
• ME Cabo by Melia : Located on Medano Beach, this stylish, modern resort is known for its vibrant pool scene and proximity to downtown Cabo’s nightlife.
• Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos Blanco Beach Resort : This all-inclusive resort offers a family-friendly environment with a prime location on El Médano Beach, one of the most swim-friendly beaches in the area.

11. Chiapas

Chiapas is the southernmost state in Mexico and we were completely blown away by the beautiful scenery, Mayan Ruins, and the beautiful colonial town of San Cristobal de Las Casas. Make your base in San Cristobal de Las Casas for an out-of-the-ordinary Mexican vacation. The historic center feels as if you have stepped back in time with cobblestone streets weaving through churches and Spanish architecture. The Indigenous People wear their traditional dress as they do their business in this charming town of southern Mexico.

Visit the Mayan ruins of  Palenque and climb its pyramid in solitude and hike through Canyon del Sumidero. The canyon is as old as the Grand Canyon and reaches 300 meters (1000 fett) into the air. Explore its caves and waterfalls and spider monkeys play overhead.

Where to Stay in Chiapas

• San Cristóbal de las Casas : This charming colonial city in the highlands of Chiapas is full of color, culture, and history.
• Palenque : If you’re interested in Mayan history, consider staying in or near the town of Palenque, which is close to the famous Palenque archaeological site.
• Tuxtla Gutiérrez : As the capital city of Chiapas, Tuxtla offers a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences.

Izamal is a charming small town located in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico, known as the “Yellow City” because of the color of its buildings, particularly the impressive Convento de San Antonio de Padua, a massive 16th-century Franciscan monastery built on top of a Mayan pyramid.,

The Yellow City is built on and around several ancient Mayan pyramids. The most significant of these is Kinich Kak Moo pyramid, one of the largest in Mexico, which visitors can climb for a panoramic view of the City of Hills.

Izamal is one of Mexico’s “Pueblos Mágicos” or “Magic Towns,” a designation given by the Mexican government to towns that offer unique cultural and historical significance. It’s one of the oldest cities in Yucatán and was an important religious center in the ancient Mayan civilization.

Where to Stay in Izamal

• Hotel Rinconada del Convento : Situated in a beautiful colonial building, this charming hotel offers spacious rooms arranged around a tranquil central courtyard. With its close proximity to the Convent of Saint Anthony of Padua.
• Hotel San Miguel Arcangel : This boutique hotel boasts a blend of colonial and modern styles. Its comfortable rooms, beautiful gardens, and swimming pool provide a relaxing retreat after exploring the city. Located near the city center, it’s an excellent base for exploring Izamal’s main attractions.
• Macan ché Bed & Breakfast : This eco-friendly B&B offers a unique, peaceful setting with lush tropical gardens. Macan ché emphasizes sustainability and local culture, serving homemade breakfasts featuring local ingredients. It also boasts two pools, hammocks for lounging, and is just a short walk from Izamal’s main sites.

13. Copper Canyon

Speaking of canyons, Copper Canyon in Northern Mexico is larger than the Grand Canyon in Arizona! Consisting of six canyons it is a popular place in Mexico to explore by train. Hop aboard the Copper Canyon Railway (The Chihuahua-Pacifico Railway) and take the scenic route from Chihuahua to Los Mochis. Instead of just taking the train, make sure to stay overnight in a hotel overlooking one of the deepest canyons on earth. There is plenty of adventure to be had at Copper Canyon from zip lining, hiking, and horseback riding.

Copper Canyon, or Barranca del Cobre, is located in the southwestern part of the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. It’s often compared to the Grand Canyon in the United States, although Copper Canyon is actually larger and deeper. Copper Canyon provides a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, outdoor activities, and culinary exploration, making it a unique destination in Mexico.

14. San Miguel de Allende

One of the most popular places in Mexico for ex-pats is the beautiful colonial city of San Miguel de Allende. It attracts those who wish to enjoy its laid-back lifestyle on an extended trip. For a vacation in Mexico, it isn’t at the top of the list, but for someone traveling around or looking to spend the winter in the country, this is an excellent choice. If you have explored most of the hot spots in Mexico, San Miguel de Allende is the place for you.

This charming town is located just 170 miles from downtown Mexico City, its historic center is filled with rich history and beautiful Spanish-colonial architecture, and the neo-gothic church of La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel stands proud at its heart.

Where to Stay in San Miguel de Allende

• Rosewood San Miguel de Allende : This luxury resort beautifully captures the charm of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
• Hotel Matilda : A boutique hotel that seamlessly combines traditional Mexican architecture with contemporary design.
• Casa de la Noche : This bed & breakfast is located in a historic former bordello, adding a touch of intrigue to your stay.

Located just 2 hours from Mexico City in central Mexico, Puebla is another captivating destination in Mexico that is beloved for its culinary scene and stunning colonial architecture. The city’s Historic Centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with beautiful buildings and streets filled with colourful tiles (talavera).

Puebla is renowned in Mexico for its cuisine. It’s the birthplace of mole poblano, a rich and complex sauce often served over chicken, and chiles en nogada, a stuffed pepper dish that reflects the colors of the Mexican flag.

It is home to the Puebla Cathedral, a Roman Catholic church in the city’s Historic Centre that’s notable for its stunning architecture and the nearby Chapel of the Rosary (Capilla del Rosario) is considered a masterpiece of Mexican Baroque architecture.

Just outside Puebla, you’ll find the Great Pyramid of Cholula, which is considered the world’s largest pyramid by volume. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in pre-Columbian history.

16. Puerto Vallarta

I first heard of Puerto Vallarta on the Love Boat when Captain Stubing took his passengers on a Mexican cruise during one of its special episodes. It only took about 30 years to finally make it there, but we thoroughly enjoyed one of the earliest resort areas in Mexico. Located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta is a beach town that has been a top draw for tourists for decades.

With all-inclusive resorts similar to the likes of Cancun, visitors can indulge in food and nightlife, beautiful beaches, and watersports. The colonial town of Puerto Vallarta sits among the jungle mountains reaching up from the sea and it is one of the premier places on earth to see humpback whales as they migrate through from December to March. Go horseback riding on the beach or scuba diving off its shores. Puerto Vallarta is a place for relaxation or adventure.

Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta

• Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa : This luxury resort is set within a nature preserve, offering a blend of beachfront relaxation and adventurous activities.
• Hotel Playa Los Arcos : Located in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta. It features three pools, including one for adults only, and offers nightly entertainment. Its location is excellent, within walking distance of the city’s popular beach, Playa Los Muertos, and numerous shops, restaurants, and bars.
• Casa Kimberly : This boutique hotel is the former home of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. It offers a glamorous and romantic setting with suites named after Taylor’s films, a stunning pool with a jacuzzi, and a rooftop restaurant.

17. Riviera Nayarit

Located a little farther up Mexico’s Pacific Coast from Puerto Vallarta is Riviera Nayarit. Less visited than the likes of Puerta Vallarta, the beach town of Riviera Nayarit has been a popular surfing spot for years. Sayulita has been a secret to ex-pats and bohemians who enjoy the artistic lifestyle, pristine beaches, and world-class surfing. Explore its fishing villages and enjoy the laid-back beach life as you relish the slow pace of its relaxing beach vibe.

Explore Parque Nacional de la Tovara which is fed by the Pacific Ocean as you enjoy some of the best bird watching in the country. Keep an eye out for crocodiles, and turtles as you enjoy a boat trip through this scenic park. Enjoy the port city of San Blas and stay in a small boutique resort to enjoy its many amazing beaches and colonial history. Or enjoy the authentic Mexican charm of the quiet fishing village of Bucerías:

18. Tecaté – Rancho La Puerta

Tijuana may be the more famous town on Mexico’s northern border, but nearby Tecate is where we took a quiet retreat at Rancho le Puerto. This wellness retreat is a sanctuary in the mountains and has consistently been named one of the best spa destinations in the world by Condé Naste Traveler. Located just outside the small town of Tecate, we crossed the border from San Diego to explore this lesser-visited place in Mexico. Tecate is the gateway to Mexico’s wine route and to the state of Baja California.

19. Mexico City

What can I say about the Mexican capital city of Mexico City?  It’s impossible to pinpoint one sole aspect of Mexico City, as to why it deserves its name on this list. Is it the food, architecture, museums, art galleries, bars, or shopping? The city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with significant historical buildings, like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace.

Mexico City is home to a staggering number of museums (over 150), including the world-renowned National Museum of Anthropology, Frida Kahlo Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts. The city’s culinary scene is one of the best in the world, offering everything from street food stalls to high-end restaurants. It’s the perfect place to sample authentic Mexican cuisine like tacos, tamales, and enchiladas, as well as regional dishes from all over the country.

Just outside Mexico City, you can visit the ancient city of Teotihuacan, home to some of the largest pre-Columbian pyramids in the Americas. Read more and start planning your visit with 10 Best Things to do in Mexico City for an Epic Trip

Where to Stay in Mexico City

• Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City : This luxury hotel, situated on the grand boulevard of Paseo de la Reforma, offers spacious rooms with views of the courtyard or streetscape.
• Hotel Carlota : A trendy boutique hotel in the Cuauhtémoc neighborhood, Hotel Carlota is a stylish choice for design lovers.
• Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico : Overlooking the Zócalo, this historic hotel is known for its stunning Art Nouveau stained glass ceiling and early 20th-century Parisian-style decor.

The Baja California Sur capital is a charming city with creative street art and strong coffee with the Sierra Madre Mountains looming in the distance. This charming beach town is known for its gorgeous beaches most notably, Balandra Beach. Think white sands and crystal clear waters hidden away within a bay. Within the bay the water doesn’t rise above your legs, making it possible to walk all the way to a deserted castaway-style beach on the opposite side.

Development is forbidden around the area of Balandra Beach, so there are no ugly resorts lining the beach. In fact, there are no buildings for miles. Sounds perfect, doesn’t it? Not only is Balandra Beach the best beach in Mexico, but it’s also one of the most gorgeous beaches in the world. Read more and start planning 19 Best Things to do in La Paz, Mexico

Where to Stay in La Paz

• CostaBaja Resort & Spa : This upscale resort overlooks the Sea of Cortez and is adjacent to Mexico’s only Gary Player-designed golf course.
• Hotel Catedral La Paz : Located in the heart of La Paz, this boutique hotel combines modern comforts with touches of traditional Mexican design.
• Hyatt Place La Paz : This hotel offers a balance of comfort and convenience. With its spacious rooms, outdoor pool, fitness center, and complimentary breakfast, it’s a solid option for both business and leisure travelers.

21. Oaxaca City

If you’re a foodie, you’ll be right at home in Oaxaca City. Nestled at the base of the Sierra Madre Mountains, Oaxaca City Around every corner in this bustling city, you will find local Oaxacan delights to stuff your face with. If you’ve never tasted Oaxacan cheese, now is your chance. Mole is also the thing to try here. Mole comes in many different flavors, so prepare for a serving of hot chicken smothered in a flavorsome thick sauce.

As with many Mexican cities, the colonial architecture will keep you occupied for hours upon hours. When you’ve finished eating your way through and exploring Oaxaca City, take a day trip to Hierve el Agua. Roughly translating to ‘the water boils’ Hierve el Agua is the site of natural springs, where solidified minerals cascade down the cliff’s edge to look like waterfalls. Pretty impressive if you ask me.

22. Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido, located on the Pacific coast of Oaxaca and is a popular destination in Mexico known for its beautiful beaches. It is particularly known for its surfing at Zicatela Beach, known as the “Mexican Pipeline.” It’s one of the best surf spots in the world, attracting professionals and serious amateurs. There are also beaches with calmer waters suitable for beginners. and surfing.

In addition to Zicatela, there are several other gorgeous beaches to explore, such as Playa Carrizalillo, Playa Manzanillo, and Playa Principal. These beaches are great for relaxing, swimming, and snorkeling.

The area around Puerto Escondido is rich in biodiversity. Laguna de Manialtepec, a few kilometers north of the town, is famous for its bioluminescent plankton. There are also opportunities for wildlife spotting, including birds, turtles, and whales. Puerto Escondido is known for its sea turtle conservation efforts. Visitors can participate in release programs, where baby sea turtles are released into the ocean.

Oaxacan cuisine is one of the most renowned in Mexico, and Puerto Escondido is no exception. You can find delicious seafood dishes, traditional Oaxacan mole, tlayudas (Oaxacan pizza), and mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit. And this city has excellent nightlife with beachfront bars, clubs and live music venues.

23. Ensenada

If you adore food, especially seafood, you will love Ensenada. Every corner in Ensenada is home to no-frills food stands serving up simple-yet-delicious deep-fried prawn or fish tacos.

A soft flour taco, topped with deep-fried prawns, shredded crunchy lettuce, zesty lime juice, a squirt of sour cream, and fiery chili sauce. What more could you ask for? It doesn’t stop there, Ensenada is home to an award-winning ceviche stand. La Guerrerense is the award-winning stand in question. The awards are well deserved. There’s not a day that’s passed where I haven’t thought about that mixed ceviche taco I devoured from La Guerrerense.

24. San Augustinillo

On the Pacific coast of Mexico lies the small fishing village of San Augustinillo. The neighboring towns Mazunte and Zipolite often get the acclaim for this area of the Oaxacan coast, but I’d recommend making a beeline straight to San Augustinillo and forgetting about the more popular and built-up neighboring towns.

There are minimal hotels, cabanas, and restaurants lining the beach in San Augustinillo, so there are no crowds of tourists here. The chances are you’ll have a large area of the beach to yourself. If your thing is relaxing on the beach or catching some waves with the surf or bodyboard, the charming village of San Augustinillo is the place for you.

25. Tequila

Could any trip to Mexico be complete without visiting the home of tequila, Tequila? OK, this could get a bit confusing. Tequila the drink is named after a town in central Mexico named Tequila. This traditional Mexican town is where the drink tequila is produced. Too much tequila? Get used to it, the one and only theme of your day in Tequila will be drinking lots of tequila.

There are distilleries spread across this town, so head for one and learn how the humble agave plant transforms into one of the world’s most popular drinks and of course, sample their own style of tequila. One place that you cannot miss while you’re in the town of Tequila is La Capilla, named in the top 100 bars in the world.

26. Bacalar

Often referred to as the “Maldives of Mexico” because of its stunningly clear, blue lagoon Bacalar is an incredible place to visit in Mexico. lso known as the Lake of Seven Colors, Laguna Bacalar is the second largest natural freshwater lake in Mexico and is known for its stunning blue and turquoise colors. This lagoon is perfect for swimming, kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding.

Compared to more popular destinations like Cancun or Playa del Carmen, Bacalar is a quieter and less crowded place, which makes it an excellent location for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. Plus, it has a reputation for being eco-friendly with a focus on sustainable tourism. This approach has helped preserve the natural beauty of the area.

I’ve seen some stunning lakes in my time, but the bright blue waters of Bacalar Laguna knock every one of them out of the park. Bacalar is one laid-back place, so it’s nice to kick back and relax for a couple of days.

Don’t spend all your time chilling out and relaxing by the tranquil Laguna though, there are 16 square miles of lake to explore. Rent a kayak and explore the lake yourself. The water is nice and calm, ensuring the perfect conditions for kayaking. Also, take a speed boat tour and spend the morning exploring the cenotes around the lake.

27. Guanajuato

The first word that springs to mind when I think of Guanajuato is colorful.  If there’s one thing they do well in Guanajuato, it’s sprucing up their buildings with bright colors.  Located in central Mexico, Guanajuato is full of culture, history, and unique attractions. Guanajuato’s city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its beautifully preserved Spanish colonial architecture and cobblestone streets.

One of the unique features of Guanajuato is its subterranean network of tunnels, originally created for flood control, which now helps manage the city’s traffic. Walking through these tunnels is an adventure in itself and make sure to visit Alley of the Kiss (Callejón del Beso) a narrow alleyway famous for a tragic love story akin to Romeo and Juliet.

Guanajuato is conveniently located in the heart of Mexico, within easy reach of other notable destinations like San Miguel de Allende and Querétaro, and Mexico City.

28. Querétaro

Querétaro is a vibrant city located in the central part of Mexico. It is renowned for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and excellent wine. Querétaro is considered one of the best places to visit in Mexico because of its historic center which is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its beautifully preserved colonial architecture. The city’s baroque buildings and narrow cobblestone streets are among the most impressive in Mexico.

One of Querétaro’s most iconic landmarks is its massive aqueduct, built in the 18th century. It consists of 74 tall stone arches that stretch across a distance of 1.3 kilometers, offering a remarkable sight.

Querétaro is considered one of the safest cities in Mexico, which makes it an attractive destination for travelers. Plus, Querétaro’s central location makes it a convenient base for exploring other parts of central Mexico. It’s within easy reach of Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, and Guanajuato.

29. Valladolid

There are a few places on the Yucatan Peninsula that I couldn’t possibly leave off this list. The town of Valladolid is beautiful.  There’s a central plaza overlooked by a stunning cathedral with plenty of bars and restaurants housed in pastel-colored buildings, serving up local specialties.

Having said that, the main reason Valladolid makes this list is down to the cenotes which you’ll discover around the outskirts.  Rent a bike and cycle to Cenote X’Keken and Samula. Take a dip in the refreshing waters of the limestone cave cenotes and marvel at the endless stalactites hanging down above you.

30. Isla Holbox

If you haven’t heard of Isla Holbox yet, where have you been? The popularity of this Mexican island has rocketed in the last few years and it’s easy to see why. People are flocking from all corners of the globe to Isla Holbox. At the moment, the island isn’t as developed as the likes of Isla Mujeres. However, who knows in the future?

The main draw of Isla Holbox is the opportunity to get up close and personal with whale sharks from June-September. As well as swimming with whale sharks visit the ecological reserve Yum Balam, kayak in the mangroves, go flamingo spotting, grab yourself a beer at a beach bar, or spend the day floating around in the crystal-clear waters.

Being the capital city of the Yucatan Peninsula and the cultural hub of Mexico, Merida is often hailed as one of the best places to visit in Mexico because of its cultural heritage. But it also has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, delicious local cuisine, and close proximity to significant archaeological sites.

The city is known for its colonial architecture, colorful streets, and historic landmarks, it is a city of beautiful. With art galleries and fine cuisine It’s also a gateway to some of the most important Mayan archaeological sites, such as Uxmal and Chichen Itza. It is close to the beautiful Yucatan Peninsula, with its cenotes (natural sinkholes), wildlife, and beautiful beaches. It’s a short drive from the city to Progreso, a port city known for its beach and seafront promenade.

Plus, Merida has a reputation for being one of the safest cities in Mexico, which makes it a comfortable and welcoming place for tourists. The locals are known for their friendliness and hospitality.

Where to Stay in Merida

• Casa Lecanda Boutique Hotel : This small luxury boutique hotel is located in the heart of Mérida.
• Rosas & Xocolate Boutique Hotel + Spa : This award-winning boutique hotel on the prestigious Paseo de Montejo is renowned for its unique pink façade.
• Hotel El Conquistador : Located near Mérida’s historic center, this hotel offers comfort and convenience. It features a swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and spacious rooms.

32. Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the second largest city in Mexico after Mexico City and the capital of the state of Jalisco. One of the best places to visit in Mexico for culture, Guadalajara is the birthplace of mariachi music, a symbol of Mexican culture. The city hosts the International Mariachi Festival annually, with performances, parades, and competitions.

Just outside Guadalajara is the town of Tequila, where the world-famous spirit is produced. You can take a tour of the tequila distilleries, see the blue agave fields, and learn about the process of making tequila. The city also has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, street art, and local crafts.

The city also has and impressive architectural heritage, from the grand Guadalajara Cathedral and the Hospicio Cabañas (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to the modernist buildings in the Colonia Americana neighborhood. Guadalajara is home to several beautiful parks, including the Guadalajara Zoo, one of the most important zoos in Latin America, and the Barranca de Huentitán, a stunning canyon on the outskirts of the city.

33. Acapulco

Acapulco is located on Mexico’s Pacific coast and is a renowned beach resort city that has long been a favorite destination for both domestic and international tourists. It is most famous for its golden sandy beaches. The city’s bay is lined with high-rise hotels and restaurants, and the beaches, such as Playa Condesa and Playa Icacos, are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

The city is known for its party atmosphere, with plenty of places to dance and enjoy music into the early hours of the morning. One of Acapulco’s most iconic attractions, the La Quebrada Cliff Divers are a group of professional divers who perform daring jumps from cliffs as high as 35 meters into the ocean below, a must-see spectacle for any visitor.

Despite being a modern city, Acapulco has some interesting historical attractions. The 17th-century Fuerte de San Diego, for example, is a star-shaped fortress that now houses the Historical Museum of Acapulco, offering insights into the region’s history. From the Chapel of Peace (Capilla de la Paz), located at one of the highest points in the city, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Acapulco Bay.

Where to Stay in Acapulco

• Banyan Tree Cabo Marques : Located on the cliffs of the Pacific Ocean, this luxury resort offers private villas with plunge pools, some with ocean views.
• Las Brisas Acapulco : This iconic hotel located on a hillside offers a unique experience with private casitas, each with its own or shared pool.
• Hotel Emporio Acapulco : Located on the main tourist strip of Acapulco, this hotel offers a range of amenities including several outdoor pools, restaurants, a fitness center, and a spa. Its location right on the beach, and proximity to shopping, restaurants, and nightlife, make it a convenient choice for many travelers.

34. El Cuyo

El Cuyo is a sleepy fishing village located on the Yucatan Peninsula’s north coast, in the Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve. Although not as widely known as some of Mexico’s other beach destinations, it’s a place of unspoiled beauty that offers tranquility and an authentic local experience.

Unlike more crowded destinations like Cancun and Playa del Carmen, El Cuyo offers long stretches of relatively untouched and uncrowded beaches, providing an ideal setting for relaxation and escape from the hustle and bustle. Located in the Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve, El Cuyo offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. The area is known for its flamingo colonies and is home to a wide variety of other bird species. Depending on the time of year, visitors may also witness the nesting of sea turtles or catch sight of dolphins in the sea.

As a small fishing village, El Cuyo provides a taste of authentic Mexican life that’s harder to find in more touristy destinations. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, interact with the friendly locals, and immerse themselves in the laid-back lifestyle.

35. Monterrey

Monterrey, located in northeastern Mexico, is the country’s third-largest city and one of its most important economic centers. Monterrey is known for its modern skyline, featuring skyscrapers such as the Torre Ciudadana and the Pabellón M. The Faro de Comercio, a striking green laser monument in the city’s Macroplaza, is also a notable sight.

Speaking of the Macroplaza, it’s one of the largest city squares in the world and houses important buildings such as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Monterrey, the Government Palace, and several museums.

Despite being a bustling city, Monterrey is located near impressive natural attractions. The Cumbres de Monterrey National Park includes the iconic Cerro de la Silla mountain, and the Grutas de Garcia are stunning caves accessible by a scenic cable car ride.

36. San Luis Potosí

San Luis Potosí, both a city and a state in central Mexico, played a crucial role in Mexico’s independence and revolution. As a result, it boasts numerous historical monuments, buildings, and museums that chronicle the country’s past.

The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with well-preserved colonial buildings. Highlights include the ornate Cathedral of San Luis Potosí, Government Palace, and Plaza de Armas.

It’s home to the Huasteca Potosina, a region boasting lush jungle, waterfalls, caves, rivers, and the surreal landscapes of the Las Pozas garden in Xilitla.

Make sure to visit Real de Catorce. Located in the state of San Luis Potosí, this old silver mining town is now a “Pueblo Mágico” (Magic Town) and a popular tourist attraction. It’s known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and spiritual significance, as many believe it to be a place of energy and healing.

San Luis Potosí’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other regions of Mexico. It’s a short distance from several other major cities, such as Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Mexico City.

Mexico has Variety

Variety is Mexico’s middle name. After a day lounging on a pristine beach , you may find yourself tucking into fresh ceviche from a modest food stand on the side of the street or hitting the clubs for an exciting night out. Another day you’ll be wandering around the narrow streets of a city discovering colonial churches amongst the brightly painted buildings. The possibilities in Mexico are endless. So are you ready to choose one of these best places to visit in Mexico on your next trip? Start planning today!

Picturesque beaches are found north, south, east, and west of Mexico. What’s that I hear you say, you want more than beautiful beaches? From Cancun to Tulum and La Paz to Isa Mujeres, the beautiful beaches of Mexico are endless soft white sand that you can walk for days upon.

Don’t worry, the architecture in Mexico’s colonial towns and cities will have you occupied for days. Also, there’s the food, how could I go this long without mentioning Mexican cuisine? The variety of local dishes across the country will have you tucking into something new each meal.  Forget about the Tex-Mex restaurants in Cancun and Puerto Vallarta, get some traditional Mexican food down you at all of these other places to visit in Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions about Places to Visit in Mexico

Where is the nicest place in Mexico?

This largely depends on what you’re looking for. For beach lovers, places like Cancun, , Tulum, and Puerto Vallarta offer stunning shorelines. For cultural enthusiasts, cities like Mexico City, Guanajuato, Oaxaca, and San Miguel de Allende are rich in history, architecture, and local traditions. Nature enthusiasts might enjoy the natural beauty of Chiapas or the Copper Canyon in Chihuahua.

What did Mexico used to be called?

Before it was known as Mexico, the area was home to numerous indigenous civilizations, including the Aztecs and Maya. The Aztecs called their homeland “Anahuac.” After the Spanish conquest, the territory became known as “Nueva España” or “New Spain.” It wasn’t until the country’s independence in 1821 that it became “Mexico,” named after the Mexica people, the indigenous group known as the Aztecs.

What is the most American City in Mexico?

This could be interpreted in different ways. If you’re referring to a city with a significant American expatriate population, cities like San Miguel de Allende, Puerto Vallarta, and Lake Chapala are known to attract many American retirees.

If you’re referring to cities with a lot of American cultural influence, cities closer to the border like Tijuana, Monterrey, and Ciudad Juarez have more American businesses and cultural influences due to their proximity to the United States.

Where in Mexico do the most Americans live?

The highest concentrations of American expatriates in Mexico are found in Mexico City, Guadalajara, San Miguel de Allende, the Lake Chapala area, and various cities in Baja California and along the Riviera Maya, which includes Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cabo San Lucas and Tulum.

Places to Visit in Mexico – Map

And these are the best places to visit in Mexico. Where is your favorite?

Plan Your Next Trip to Mexico with These Resources

• 10 Best Things to do in Mexico City for an Epic Trip
• 15 Fun Facts About Mexico
• Best Things to do in Cancun, Mexico
• 19 Best Things to do in La Paz, Mexico
• Amazing Things to do in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
• Rio Secreto Cenote – Mexico’s Magical Underground Caves
• 20 Most Beautiful Caribbean Islands to Put on The Bucket List
• Amazing Things to Do in Belize

This post was originally written by Nathan of The TRVL Blog. His website is no longer active and it has now been updated by The Planet D.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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13 thoughts on “36 Best Places To Visit in Mexico in 2024”

Thanks for the travel inspiration and comprehensive guide. Can’t wait to plan my Mexican getaway and tick off some of these amazing spots!

Nice to see Bacalar mentioned. Spent two weeks in 2006 and fell in love with the people and town.

There is a lot to see in Mexico, without a doubt a lot of culture and magical places to visit and enjoy. I recommend you to take the time to visit all the towns and cities you mention.

ENSALADA! love love love it

My husband and I have vacationed in Mexico numerous times with the help of our travel service elite1500. We absolutely loved Holbox and are hoping it doesn’t get developed too fast!! And yes, swam with the whale sharks and it’s an incredible experience. Still haven’t made it to Mexico City but it’s definitely on the bucket list.

Thanks for your sharing, I plan to go to Mexico next year. But my question is: can people in Mexico speak English? My Spanish skills are limited so I was wondering if you guys could speak fluently while in Mexico and if not, do people speak English? I really want to talk everybody here, but that might be difficult if we don’t have a common language…

Thank you for sharing information. I visited Holbox through “Oscar Cancun Shuttle”, but due to time short, I was unable to visit other popular places.I wish plan and visite again.

Very nice when you got travel to Mexico !

Great article..! It looks like Mexico is one of the most amazing place to visit..Balandra beach looks gorgeous and

Bacalar blue lake is awesome to see…! Hoping to visit soon. Thank you for such a beautiful article.

OMG 🙂 I was there once, but now I see I need to go back asap! Thanks for sharing :)))))) Praying for Mexican people after earthquake.

We will be visiting Holbox for the first time in February. I’m looking forward to it!

Love this article. Read lots of blogs about Mexico as I contemplate where to go and what to do..and this one has came up with new and interesting ones that truly inspire me. Thank you.

WOW! Really wonderful information…

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The 20 Best Places to Visit in Mexico

By Michaela Trimble

We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.

Be it windswept tropical beaches, charming cobbled towns, or the welcoming nature of its culture that has a way of drawing visitors in, Mexico delights as one of the top travel destinations in the world. According to Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism, from 2020 to 2021 alone tourist rates to the country grew a staggering 28.1 percent to round out at 31 million visitors in 2021—and with this year’s numbers set to outpace the last, it suffices to say that interest in Mexico is only set to increase.

During a visit, you will likely begin your trip in Mexico City , the country’s thriving capital where some of the country’s top boutique hotels, architectural wonders, and eateries await. From there, even more regional destinations await, from La Paz, a relaxed coastal town on the languid Sea of Cortez, to Chiapas, a mountainous region in southern Mexico overflowing with Maya archaeological sites and Spanish colonial architecture.

For inspiration to plan your next trip, we’ve rounded out the top 20 destinations in Mexico to explore.

San Miguel de Allende

A view of Plaza de la Soledad in San Miguel de Allende.

By Lorena Meouchi

By Leah Faye Cooper

By Hannah Coates

Known for its thriving arts community and colorful façades, the cobbled town of San Miguel de Allende in the country’s central highlands is welcoming a wave of development geared to a younger artistic generation. During a visit, opt for a stay at the private and intimate oasis Hotel Amparo , a renovated 300-year-old, five-room property, or next door at Casa Hoyos , where you can find the best rooftop bar in the city, Bekeb . While you’re in town, be sure to explore the area’s natural wine scene during a tasting at Octagano , the only label in Mexico to produce natural wine in clay vessels, and the boutique winery Cava Garambullo , where you can try French-oak-aged orange wine made from chardonnay grapes.

Mexico City

The interiors at Octavia Casa in Condesa. 

Perhaps the most enticing destination in the entire country, Mexico City is becoming increasingly admired as one of the world’s foremost capitals of creativity and culinary pursuits. New to the city are boutique hotels such as the minimalist Octavia Casa , a seven-room bed-and-breakfast in Condesa, and the 19-suite Casa Polanco , a renovated 1940s mansion in Polanco. During a trip, be sure to visit the new Lago Algo cultural space and restaurant set before the Chapultepec lake in the city’s main green space. Plan ahead for some of the city’s most coveted new restaurants, including the Japanese bistro Koshó , set in the renovated Pasaje Parián passageway in Roma Norte, and Hugo el Wine Bar , an ideal Condesa eatery for small plates like fried calamari and sourdough toast with tangy boquerones.

A panoramic view from a suite at The Cape, A Thompson Hotel.

Set on the southernmost tip of the Baja California Sur peninsula, Los Cabos is comprised of the sister cities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. Luxury travelers and nightlife aficionados will gravitate to Cabo San Lucas for a stay at hotels like The Cape, A Thompson Hotel, home to the upscale eatery, Manta , which offers contemporary Mexican cuisine by chef Enrique Olvera. The more laid-back, surf-centric crew will likely gravitate to the historic center of San Jose del Cabo. Located in the downtown area is Drift San Jose , a boutique property conveniently located near some of the town’s top restaurants, including the top brunch locale, Pez Gallo , and the indoor-outdoor café, Lab Baja . For a dose of the area’s festive ambiance, a visit to Hotel El Ganzo is in order, while at Crania (the property’s outdoor venue) expect a rotating calendar of concerts and DJ sets.

The historic center of Morelia. 

Set in Western Mexico, Morelia, the capital of the Michoacán state, is a gateway to exploring this region’s rich Prehispanic traditions and colonial architecture. In the city’s downtown center is the rose-hued Morelia Cathedral, which is located near myriad new restaurants, including the elegant La Conspiración de 1809 helmed by chef Cynthia Martinez, who specializes in regional dishes from Morelia. Next door is Café Michelena , a relaxed eatery where guests can enjoy the afternoon while lounging in white-and-red rattan chairs and chatting over cappuccinos and blueberry tarts. From Morelia, other well-known towns are easily accessible, including San Clara del Cobre , home to the country's best coppersmiths, and Patzcuaro, best known as the foremost location of Mexico’s traditional Día de Muertos festivities.

The Baja Club Hotel in La Paz.

This relaxed coastal town in Baja California Sur is a springboard to some of the region’s most thrilling ocean explorations. With Baja Club as your home base—a sleek and contemporary 32-room boutique hotel set within a renovated Spanish colonial villa—you’ll be within easy reach of adventures to nearby beaches such as Playa Balandra, home to an iconic mushroom-shaped rock feature. Be sure to book a few days at Camp Cecil by Todos Santos EcoAdventures , a tented camp on Espíritu Santo island that offers adventures like boat tours to swim with sea lions, kayaking excursions to see colonies of blue-footed boobies, and the chance to snorkel with whale sharks, which are usually most prominent from January to April.

Oaxaca City

A garden room at Escondido Oaxaca.

Whether you spend the afternoon eating cheese-stuffed and bean-lathered tlayudas at Mercado de La Merced or partaking in a mezcal-infused happy hour at the city’s sleekest bar, Selva , there’s plenty of reason to love Oaxaca City. In this cobbled town, boutique hotels are numerous, including the brutalist-style Escondido Oaxaca and Hotel Sin Nombre , set in a restored 17 th -century building. While you need to book advance reservations for restaurants like Criollo (by chefs Enrique Olvera and Luis Arellano) or Alfonsina , a family-run restaurant known for its delicious mole, you can more casually dip into Onnno for cold brews and Boulenc for fresh-made sourdough. Save time for more far-flung explorations like visiting master textile artisans in the town of Teotitlan del Valle or swimming in the pools of a calcified waterfall at Hierve el Agua.

Puerto Escondido

A view towards the sea from Hotel Terrestre. 

The coastline near Puerto Escondido is full of surprises, from harboring top-notch surf breaks like those found at Playa Zicatela and Playa Carrizalillo to offering some of the most breathtaking examples of modern Mexican architecture. A visit here is all about discovering the right beach enclave for you. In Mazunte, dirt-track roads lead to bohemian smoothie shops and laid-back bungalows, while San Agustinillo offers jungle abodes like Monte Uzulu and one of the most walkable beaches in the region. Then there’s Zipolite, host to the area’s main nude beach as well as the top cocktail bar, Mezcaleria GotaGorda . Finally, there’s Punta Pájaros, set about 30 minutes northwest of Puerto Escondido. Relaxed yet luxurious, this area is home to design villas by some of the world’s top architects, as well as new boutique hotels like Hotel Terrestre .

The lobby of Banyan Tree Puebla. 

Set two hours southeast of Mexico City, this conservative colonial town is known as one of Mexico’s epicenters for historic churches and vibrant architecture, with façades covered in the region’s famed hand-painted Talavera ceramic tiles. At its center is the zócalo, or the main downtown square, where you can glimpse one of the city’s finest examples of Baroque architecture: the Puebla Cathedral, completed in the 1640s. Bridging the old and new is the International Museum of the Baroque, designed by Japanese architect Toyo Itō, while the Museo Amparo offers fine examples of Prehispanic artifacts. To keep exploring the area, opt for a stay at the new 78-room Banyan Tree Puebla or La Purificadora , an industrial-leaning boutique hotel with a rooftop offering sweeping city views.

A view of the Uxmal ruins in Yucatán, near Merida.

This colorful, cobbled town is not only the capital of the Yucatán state, but it’s also a gateway to exploring the region’s rich arts culture and the living legacy of the Mayas. Stay in a tranquil wellness oasis at Coqui Coqui L’Epicerie Mérida , or opt for a room at the renovated Casa Puuc , where an outdoor garden and refreshing pool await. While in town, be sure to browse the locally-made linens and perfumes at the concept shop Casa Tho (and stay for a cocktail at the Tho Aperitivo ) before dropping into the chic cantina Salón Gallos for dishes offering a contemporary take on classic regional cuisine, from pork tacos topped in garlic-spiced mole to empanadas served with a hearty Yucatecan stew. Save time for more excursions to discover the region’s culture, including a visit to Uxmal ruins, a revered Maya suite known for its Puuc style of architecture: arched doorways and decorative geometric blocks support its many vaults.

Zihuatanejo-Ixtapa

The pool area at Cala de Mar Ixtapa. 

Once a sleepy fishing village situated on Mexico's central Pacific Coast, Zihuatanejo received an uptick in development when its next-door neighbor, Ixtapa, became a resort hotspot. Evidence of this can be found at the chic 59-suite Cala de Mar Ixtapa , an intimate, wellness-focused property perched on a cliff overlooking the coast. Back in Zihuatanejo and set within easy distance from the downtown center is the Thompson Zihuatanejo, a contemporary respite set along the shores of Playa La Ropa with suites boasting private infinity plunge pools. More under-the-radar and intimate, Musa , set an hour south of Zihuatanejo, offers a relaxed seaside stay with five ocean-facing contemporary suites. With surf accessible directly in front of the hotel, it’s easy to stay secluded in this tranquil spot for days on end, especially when the communal areas include an infinity pool and thatched-roof palapa bar.

Riviera Maya

The setting of Etéreo, in Riviera Maya.

This stretch of Caribbean coastline along the Yucatán Peninsula is one of the country’s most concentrated tourist destinations. Beginning south of Cancun and extending to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve in Tulum, the area offers plenty to explore, from hidden limestone cenotes, or freshwater swimming holes, to tucked-away ruins like Coba, a site with the region’s highest temple and oldest network of stone causeways in the Maya world. Some of the area’s top resort stays include Etéreo , a 75-room luxury hotel set along a protected stretch of white-sand shoreline, and Palmaïa , a secluded sanctuary set south of Playa del Carmen that’s revered for its plant-based cuisine and jungle spa. Further south in Tulum, top stays include the private and relaxed Olas Tulum , an all-suite property, and Sanará , a wellness-centric property with the plant-focused kitchen, Real Coconut.

Guadalajara

Not only is Guadalajara the land where mariachi music hails, but it’s also the undisputed origin of the Mexican charro , or cowboy. It’s where tequila became tequila , and it’s even the region that produced Luis Barragán, revered as the country’s pioneer of modern Mexican architecture. Though rich with tradition, today Guadalajara is becoming more known for its hip cafés, upscale restaurants, and craft breweries. Base yourself at the city’s original boutique property, Casa Habita , a 37-room hotel with a rooftop pool. From here, it’s easy to arrive at restaurants like Xokol for an upscale presentation of traditional corn-based dishes like tacos and tlacoyos and El Terrible Juan , an all-day café and brew bar. And don’t leave town without a visit to the lienzo , or arena, of the Charros de Jalisco, to see a classic charrería , a rode-style competition that’s also the country’s national sport.

Riviera Nayarit

An ocean cliff villa at the One&Only Mandarina.

Set on Mexico’s Central Pacific Coast and hugged by towering Sierra Madre mountains, the wild coast of Riviera Nayarit offers a surprising mix of small towns and luxurious resorts. For a dose of the area’s relaxed, laid-back roots, opt to visit the beachside towns of Sayulita and San Pancho, where a smoothie bar and hip café are always within reach. For more lofty stays, there’s the 1,500-acre Punta Mita peninsula, an exclusive gated community with somewhat of an arid climate that’s home to resorts like the Four Seasons and St. Regis . Further north and with a verdant jungle ecosystem rife with tropical foliage and towering mountain peaks is Mandarina, a resort development best known for the One&Only Mandarina . At this ultra-luxurious property, each private villa stay comes equipped with a dedicated butler.

The Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas.

In the southernmost bounds of Mexico, Chiapas, a mountainous region that borders Guatemala, offers a vast rainforest landscape where the country’s coffee and cacao plants flourish. To explore the area’s vast system of Maya archaeological sites and Spanish colonial architecture, most travelers base themselves in one of two cobbled towns: San Cristóbal de las Casas or Chiapa de Corzo. Perhaps the best-known cultural site in Chiapas is Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 200 architectural structures and a verdant ecosystem of streams and waterfalls. For the adventurous set, a boat tour of the Sumidero Canyon grants up-close access to the site’s vertical walls, some rising more than 2,500 feet.

Valle de Guadalupe

The unique cabins at Encuentro Guadalupe.

About an hour south of Tijuana, where the towering peaks of the Sierra de Juárez mountains merge with the Pacific Ocean, is the arid wine-growing region of Valle de Guadalupe. Myriad boutique stays are available like Encuentro Guadalupe , a hotel with rectangular eco-pods spread across a 40,000-acre ecological reserve, as well as Casa 8 , private suites located in the heart of Bruma’ s 225-acre vineyards and near the famed restaurant Fauna , by chef David Castro Hussong. The area’s wine route is host to numerous vineyards and fine-dining outposts, including the family-run winery Aborigen , where the natural wine label, Piel de Luna, is produced, as well as restaurants like Deckman’s en El Mogor , a ranch-style eatery with house delicacies like smoky barbecue and fresh Kumiai oysters.

A view of El Tepozteco, a small Aztec pyramid above Tepoztlán.

Located about two hours south of Mexico City, Tepoztlán is a pueblo mired in legend and lore. Not only is it believed to be the birthplace of the feathered serpent Aztec god Quetzalcóatl, but it’s also home to the Tepozteco pyramid, a site dedicated to Tepzēcatl, the god of fertility. The mysticism of the town runs through its boutique hotels, including Amomoxtli , located on the outskirts of town and known for its lush gardens and tranquil outdoor pool. In downtown, Casa Fernanda offers a more central stay and is host to Toci Spa and its own on-site temazcal sweat lodge. Within walking distance is Margarita Concept , a greenhouse-style cocktail bar set within the grounds of the hilltop boutique hotel, Posada del Tepozteco .

The village of Bernal in Querétaro.

Considered Mexico’s premier up-and-coming wine region, Querétaro (and its neighboring state of Guanajuato) is beloved for its ever-evolving natural vineyards. One of the top to visit in the area is Tierra de Peña, located in Valle de Colón. Founded by architect-turned-vintner Luis Aburto, the brand is known for its spicy tempranillo and its passionfruit-noted sparkling pet-nat. Querétaro’s growth also includes concepts like Hotel Hércules , housed in a textile production plant first built in 1846. Now, after an extensive renovation, the building will open its doors this July with an indoor beer garden, as well as independent studios by the likes of the design firm Caralarga and the architecture group Goma , which led the hotel renovation, which includes a luxury spa and social club.

An aerial view of the Bacalar Lagoon.

In the southern stretch of Mexico’s Quintana Roo state is the freshwater lagoon town of Bacalar, one of the fastest-growing pueblos in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. While this destination was once overlooked by the likes of Playa del Carmen and Tulum, it’s now even more coveted thanks to its laid-back appeal and crystal-clear waters. Plenty of eco-conscious boutique hotels are available for a waterfront stay, including Habitas Bacalar , Naya Bacalar , and the forthcoming Boca de Agua , designed by the famed Mexican architect Frida Escobedo. In the downtown area, visitors will find the area’s best spa at Casa Hormiga , as well as top eateries such as Nao Sushi and Macario .

Todos Santos

A beach near Todos Santos.

Located between Los Cabos and La Paz along the Pacific Coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, this diminutive desert town is now officially on the map of travelers everywhere. Not only is it beloved by surfers for its point break at Los Cerritos and its myriad cliffside desert trails with views of the Pacific Ocean, but it’s also a haven for design lovers thanks to its myriad boutique stays, including Hotel San Cristobal and the newer Paradero , both luxury properties. New to town is the natural wine bar, La Confianza, a complement to tried-and-true eateries such as Barracuda Cantina , offering the best shrimp tacos in town, as well as The Green Room , where visitors and locals alike gather to enjoy margaritas and tostadas during sunset.

An infinity pool overlooking Costa Careyes.

This seaside enclave on Mexico’s Pacific coast first gained notoriety as a hotspot for models and jet setters of the 1980s. Today, the town—set along the south coast of Jalisco and about a 90-minute drive from the Manzanillo airport—is more known for its wellness and architectural offerings. Founded by Gian Franco Brignone in 1968, Careyes is marked by a cliffside with 65 colorful villas cascading towards the water. More expansive homes are available for rent, too, including the royal blue-hued Tigre del Mar and the bright gold Sol de Oriente , as well as homes designed by the beloved Mexican architects Luis Barragán and Diego Villaseñor. During a visit, travelers can enjoy boating to sea caves and white-sand beaches and dining at the seaside Playa Rosa Beach Club and the omakase-style Shio Sushi at the El Careyes Club and Residences .

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The 39 Best Places to Visit in Mexico in 2023

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Wondering what are the best places to visit in Mexico? you have landed in the right place.

I have lived in Mexico for 13 years ( and counting) and explored most of its top destinations on and off the beaten path and in this post I am going to share my top favorite ones.

When you think about Mexico the first thing that comes to your mind you staring at a blue turquoise sea from the white-sand Caribbean beach with a tropical cocktail in your hand. I feel you. And after living 7 years in Cancun I know exactly what you mean.

But Mexico is much more than that.  It’s an immense country with huge natural diversity and profound culture .

Mexico cannot be described. He must be trusted. With passion, with rage, with total surrender… Carlos Fuentes

It’s no surprise that Cancun and the Riviera Maya are the most visited destinations and for a reason, well, multiple reasons.

However, there are 31 states overall, each one boasting its own culture and traditions; amazing people, proud of their own state and happy to share it with you, traveler. Not to mention the great unique food.

There are many interesting facts about Mexico that will keep you entertained and many travel tips you should know about before traveling to Mexico .

In this post, I will take you on a journey through the most amazing places to see in Mexico and I hope to inspire you to explore more of this beautiful country that never stops fascinating me.

The most unique places to visit in Mexico

Explore the impressive petrified waterfalls of hierve el agua (oaxaca).

A spectacular natural monument just an hour from Oaxaca City will leave you speechless. An insider tip to appreciate it better: make sure you go on your own and not with an organized tour and leave early in the morning so that you can get there before the crowd. It’s magic!

Even better would be to stay there in one of the cabañas or camp.  Hierve el Agua looks like a frozen waterfall but if you know the temperatures of that place you would know that it would be impossible for the water to freeze. I will tell you what happens then.

Two natural pools receive the waters from the springs that release different kinds of minerals, also known for their natural healing properties.

The water drips down from the pools to the cliffs creating deposits of minerals that accumulate over time and create these massive white columns around the mountains that look like iced water.

It’s a spectacular view and if you dare take a dip in the freezing water, watching the spectacular mountains around you it’s a magical experience. There is also a short hike that goes from above the pools all around the falls and you can see them from different perspectives.

Swim in the spectacular waterfalls of the Huasteca Potosina (San Luis Potosi)

This is actually one of my favorite places in Mexico. The Huasteca Potosina is a region that includes part of Queretaro and San Luis Potosi, northeast of Mexico City .

The region is famous for the spectacular waterfalls scattered around the town of Ciudad Valles. You can stay there and get tours that take you around amazing places such as El Salto, Tamul, Puente de Dios. There is so much to see.

Get lost in the Enchanted Garden of Xilitla (San Luis Potosi)

Close to the Huasteca Potosina, you can include in your Itinerary this very original and mysterious garden build by the British artist Edward James. It was his own home and now a park and museum that you can visit and spend a full day if you wish.

It’s made of concrete construction of different shapes that look like a labyrinth in the middle of a thick jungle. I arrived in Xilitla after spending 3 days in the Sierra Gorda Queretaro , an amazing trip.

I stayed only 1 night but if you have time you should spend a couple of extra nights and explore the amazing surroundings.

Get up early and get to the Sotano de las Golondrinas (San Luis Potosi)

Make sure you arrive in time to watch the spectacular show of thousands of birds coming out of the cave all together in a whirlpool of wings and chirping sounds. It lasts a few minutes but it’s all worth the trip.

And when you get back up to the entrance you will have a spectacular sunrise to watch.

Make sure you organize your trip with a taxi driver if you don’t have your own car, and ask him to take you around the town of Aquismon and visit the close by waterfalls.

Puente de Dios and Tamul are the closest but make sure it’s not the Puente de Dios that everybody knows, it’s another one, less known but still beautiful and closer to the town. You can include this stop in your itinerary to the Huasteca Potosina .

Visit Puebla and try famous Chile en Nogada in Puebla

Puebla is known to be the official culinary destination of Mexico and, although every state has its food identity and specialties, Puebla can be considered on top of the game. Its typical creative delicacies are not for every palate but appreciated by the most.

Puebla’s historical center is nominated UNESCO Heritage Site .

Among the delicious food in Puebla , the Chile en Nogada is the most popular dish and the culinary symbol of Puebla. It’s a seasonal dish because the ingredients used can be found only in the summer. So if you want to try it, make sure you go between July and August when Chile is ready to be picked up.

There is a lot of history around this traditional plate, so they even do festivals and competitions for the best chile en Nogada. If you are a foody person, you should not miss it.

Now they are starting to make the vegan version which might be totally different from the original one but for sure you can get an idea of flavors.

Hike the Nevado de Toluca (State of Mexico)

If you love hiking you will enjoy this day tour from Mexico City . An escape from the charming yet chaotic city to enjoy a hike at 4000 mt.

There are different types of hikes for any level and ability.

The best one was to me to get to the crater rim and enjoy the spectacular views of the lakes of the sun and the moon and then going down and back up on the other side. It was tough but the spectacular scenery makes up for the effort.

You will enjoy reading my post on Hiking the Nevado de Toluca with the full story of my hike and how I managed to crawl to the top.

Take a dip in a mystic cenote in the Yucatan Peninsula (Yucatan)

If you are on a trip to Yucatan you cannot miss a swim in these spectacular natural sinkholes.

There are thousands scattered around the Yucatan Peninsula. Only around Tulum, there are at least 10 that you can visit on a half-day trip .

Or if you love to explore further, the best cenotes are close to Merida , in a small town called Cuzama’, known for the incredible quantity of Cenotes that have been discovered. It’s one dirt road lined by cenotes. You can go on your own or ask local guides to take you on their moto-taxi, which adds to the fun.

Go whale watching in Baja California

In Baja California Sur you can experience the best whale watching in Mexico . You can see them floating and swimming around from December through March (March being the best month) and the best spot to see them is San Ignacio or Puerto Lopez Mateos.

I went on a road trip twice, once with two friends and we drove from La Paz to San Ignacio, which is a good 8 hours drive but it gives you the most spectacular views of the Sea of Cortez.

The other time I was on my own and I enjoyed it even more (Sorry friends!)

In another post, I will tell you all about my 10-day trip on the road in Baja California, including the Whale Watching trip . 

It was such an emotional experience to see that giant of the sea coming close to you and letting you pet them. Incredible. I would do it over again.

Climb to El Tepozteco (Tepoztlan – Morelos)

Located in Tepoztlan, a lovely town in the Mexican state of Morelos, about 2 hours from Mexico City , El Tepozteco is an ancient pyramid dedicated to the God of Pulque but its fame is mainly credited to the steep hike that you have to take in order to get to the top.

It’s a hard 2km and 500 mt elevation gain, but all worth it when you reach the top and see the spectacular views of the town.

Tepozlan became a Pueblo Magico in 2010 and it boasts many interesting historical places besides an interesting local market with delicious food, also vegan-friendly.

Learn about the Mariachi Tradition

Mariachi Music is the iconic melody of Mexico that accompanies all the most important events. Welcome or goodbye parties, or any other occasion to celebrate is not complete if a mariachi band is not present.

But what is a Mariachi? It’s a band generally consisting of 4 or 5 musicians wearing charro suites and playing at least two violins, a guitar, a  guitarrón (large bass guitar), and a  vihuela  (similar to a guitar but with a rounded back) and one or more of the musicians also sing.

Mariachi was recognized by UNESCO as part of the  Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity  in 2011 and the listing says Mariachi is traditional Mexican music and a fundamental element of Mexican culture” and again, “Mariachi music transmits values of respect for the natural heritage of the regions of Mexico and local history in the Spanish language and the different Indian languages of Western Mexico”.

Where to find Mariachi Music in Mexico. Well, basically everywhere. However, there are 2 famous plazas that have been known for their folklores and mariachi music, one is Plaza Garibaldi in Mexico City and the other is  Plaza de los Mariachi in Guadalajara, Jalisco, the state where the Mariachi tradition was born.

However, I have to say that I am seeing lots of negative feedback about those places from visitors that felt that those areas have lost their old traditional charm and have even become even a little unsafe.

If you are interested in knowing more in-depth about Mariachi Music you will appreciate the Mariachi music festival that takes place in Guadalajara every year.

Click here to check out the list of the Best Mariachi songs to request.

Practice your surfing skills in the Mexican Surfing Mecca, Sayulita

The vibrant and busy little town of the Riviera Nayarit, was just a small fishing village in the 70s when a crowd of hippies from the US in search of the perfect wave found it here, fell in love with the place, and settled down.

With time Sayulita has developed into a very demanded tourist destination, not only for surfers anymore but for anyone in search of good beach life, great drinks, sun, and a chilling vacation. In fact, Sayulita is home to the most popular beaches in Mexico .

The town has a lot to offer and will give you lots of reasons to fall in love with it. You can read my article where I share the best things to do in Sayulita and many other practical tips .

Go Jewelry shopping in Taxco (Guerrero)

The small town of Taxco is mainly known for its Silver mining history which was not one of the happiest for the locals but gave so much wealth to the conqueror.

As a positive result, goldsmithing became the most important activity of the local population which made Taxco one of the most important centers for Silver jewelry.

Now the mines are closed, except for one that has been turned into a museum,  but they buy the raw product and make magic with it turning it into spectacular decorative objects, personal accessories, and houseware.

The town is also a gem, built on the slope of a mountain, you will have fun walking around the steep cobblestone winding roads or taking a ride on the VW beetles that populate the street of the Pueblo Magico .

There is so much to do in Taxco  that you could spend a whole week and still wait for a dull moment. My favorite thing to do in Taxco was to visit the Pozas Azules (See next point #12)

Swim in the spectacular Pozas Azules (Taxco – Guerrero)

Among the things that you can do in Taxco, swimming in the Pozas Azules was one of my favorites. It’s an easy 40-minute ride on a combi (minivan) to the town of Atzala.

The bus will take you right to the entrance and then you have a 5-minute walk to the blue water pools. It’s normally a busy place but there is a way to be alone in the water.

Explore the breathtaking Sierra Gorda (Queretaro)

The small state of Queretaro is packed with things to do and see, one of them is the Sierra Gorda, a mountain range with such a diversity of landscape and territory you will not believe it.

It’s difficult to explore it with public transportation so you would need to rent a car or go on a tour.

I did a private tour with a local guide and I had a blast, not only because we were almost alone in the wilderness but because the places are spectacular.

Waterfalls, canyons, rivers, old churches in the middle of a deserted valley, hikes on top of a bed of clouds covering the spectacular valley.

It’s just breathtaking.

Read also : 4-day Itinerary in the Sierra Gorda Queretaro

Take a ride on El Chepe through the Copper Canyon (Chihuahua)

Visiting the Copper Canyon ( Barranca del Cobre in Spanish) was one of the most amazing trips of my life and I am planning to do it over again. I was there for 23 days and I was happy to do it with a friend who had the same idea of travel as me.

We explored every town and every corner and I have even done the zip line and a sort of easy via Ferrata in the Adventure Park , I don’t normally like parks of that sort but this one in the middle of the Canyon was the perfect way to experience the spectacular views you get of the huge mountain range.

It’s just breathtaking. But there is also the cultural part that is very interesting to learn about. The population of the Tarahumara , is known for their ability to run for miles and miles barefoot. It’s a world to discover.

Be inspired by the art galleries in Oaxaca city (Oaxaca)

Oaxaca is one of my favorite cities in Mexico and the place where I would live when I will be back from my long journey through Latin America.

Among the amazing things that conquered my heart was the artsy vibes that you can feel all around the city and you can see in the countless art galleries you can find, especially in the historical center.

Also, Oaxaca is where the local indigenous culture has a louder voice and you can see it and feel it in their traditions, festivals and textiles, and museums.

It’s such a magic place, not to mention the surroundings, packed with things to see such as the Hierve el Agua ( See #1) or the archeological site of Monte Alban towering over the valley which makes some of the best days trips from Oaxaca.

Enjoy the colorful murals of La Paz (Baja California)

Baja California is a world to discover, very different from the rest of Mexico and yet so Mexican in many ways. There is a huge community of American Expatriates living there which would make you feel you are not in the real Mexico, but you are.

What I loved the most about Baja California had nothing to do with culture, though. Instead, I was fascinated with the moonlike landscapes, spectacular views over the Sea of Cortez Gulf and marine life.

There are so many things to do in La Paz , Baja California Sur and the city itself is a gem, and besides offering breathtaking sunsets and a multitude of outdoor activities, boasts colorful creative murals made by different Mexican and international artists that give even more charm to the capital of Baja California Sur.

Have a glamorous vacation in the boho chic Tulum (Riviera Maya Quintana Roo)

Visiting Tulum might not look so unique but this crazy place has been in the headlines of many travel magazines for many reasons.

The spectacular never-ending wild beach, the fascinating archeological site overlooking the sea, and the laidback beach lifestyle have attracted a crowd of artists and entrepreneurs from the Hollywood scene, that have seen this magic town as a gold mine and invested in spectacular design hotels , fancy restaurants and bars, which transformed the once laid back fishing village into the ultimate glamorous destination among the celebrities and superstars and their entourage.

In fact, those are the ones who can afford the ultra-expensive so-named “eco-chic” lodges, chicer than eco, for sure.

But worry not, if you don’t belong to the elite, even normal people like us can enjoy the trendy town and have our moment of glory. In this Tulum itinerary , I am telling you all you need to know.

Swim with the whale sharks, the gentle giants of the sea

It’s an experience that you will remember forever and you will want to repeat. They are called gentle giants because they are totally innocuous and most of the time even playful creatures.

They migrate from the south to the north in search of food and you will be able to see them from Cancun or Holbox in the summer and in Baja California   in the wintertime. Don’t miss that tour if you are around.

Explore the spectacular biosphere of Calakmul (Campeche)

Calakmul is an unmissable place whether you love archeology or nature, as you get the best of both worlds. Calakmul is one of the largest protected reserves in Mexico and stretches for 7,231 km 2  (2,792 sq mi) in the state of Campeche bordering Quintana Roo in the south and El Peten in Guatemala on the west side.

To visit the biosphere you will need at least one entire day and I would recommend hiring a guide and starting in the early morning to get the chance to spot the unique wildlife living in the biosphere.

Maybe you are lucky and spot a Jaguar.

I wish I did. After the jungle tour, you will be taken to the most interesting pyramids and explained the history of the ancient Mayan civilization.

If you chose to go on your own without a guide you will still enjoy the magic atmosphere of this place. And you still be able to see lots of birds and maybe monkeys while hiking to the top of the ancient temples.

Since it’s far away to everything you will need to plan at least a 2-night stay close to the entrance. There are lovely jungle hotels for any budget and needs. If you have time I would suggest you extend your stay as the area is packed with amazing things to do . I stayed there one full week to see everything. 

Have a sophisticated weekend or week in one of the exquisite Haciendas of Yucatan

If you love luxury and sophisticated hotels you will definitely need to spend a couple of nights in one Haciendas . There are many, scattered around the Yucatan Peninsula .

They are old properties that were old estate that has been turned into luxury properties, offering the charm of the retro’ feeling together with the modern comfort and style.

The trend of opening a Hotel-hacienda has been increasing lately and you can find a huge variety of options from the finest property to the more laid back.

Fall in love with the lagoon of the 7 shades of blue in Bacalar

Bacalar is one of my favorite spots in the Riviera Maya and when you get there you will understand why. The spectacular lagoon will enchant you with its multiple shades of blues and turquoises.

There are different things that you can do in Bacalar , but my favorite is sailing on the lagoon, feeling the breeze, sitting back, relaxing and enjoying the overwhelming views, or you can take a swing on the water on Coco’s beach, swim in the cenote, or let the water take you away in the rapids, so much fun! Oh ok, there are lots of favorite things to do in Bacalar.

It’s just an exciting yet laid-back place to stay and relax. Bacalar also offers a great choice of accommodation of any sort, from Budget hostels to eco-friendly laid-back luxury lodges on the lagoon. Trust me you will love it to pieces.

Hike the Peña de Bernal (Bernal Peak) – Queretaro

At a couple of hours from the beautiful colonial city of Queretaro , you can find Bernal, one of the Pueblos Magicos of Mexico .

The small town is known for being at the foot of the Peña de Bernal, one of the highest Monoliths in the World.

It’s a spectacular massive rock that you might have seen standing proudly in the frame of any picture of the town.

There is nothing much to do there, besides hiking the peña. It’s a very short hike that you can do in half a day, quite steep but the views are worth all the effort. It’s suitable for families too.

If you are a climber you can certainly find your playground there. Just make sure you go with the right equipment and with a professional partner. I went there with a friend on my way to the Sierra Gorda .

And it was definitely worth the visit.

Join the local spirit and folklore and participate in a Callejoneada in Guanajuato (Guanajuato)

Well, it’s better if you know some Spanish but it’s still an interesting event to join, every night university students gather in the main square to take you to explore historical corners of the colonial city, while singing and telling stories and legends, of course in a funny way and most of the time involving the public, with mockery and jokes.

It’s a popular old tradition that involves a lot of skills and training by the students who do it, not only to keep the traditions alive but also to raise money to support their studies.

It’s such a great entertaining show that you will be happy to leave them a tip at the end of it.

Take a stroll on the Malecòn in Puerto Vallarta

Almost every touristic city built on the beach has a Malecon, which is a promenade that stretches along the beach or by the sea.

I am not sure whether the one in Puerto Vallarta is one of the best and longest in Mexico,  but I am certain that it is the most entertaining.

In fact, among all the amazing things to do in Puerto Vallarta , a stroll on the Malecon is the most popular and cheapest, and the most interesting.

Depending on which time of the day you take your walk, there is always something to entertain you.

In the morning you will enjoy the fresh breeze and the peaceful atmosphere, and a good number of doggies taking their human out for a walk :).

In the evening you will enjoy the colorful food stalls where you can try local delicacies while admiring the spectacular sunsets.

But the highlights of the Malecon are the magnificent copper statues by Sergio Bustamante , a productive Mexican artist from Guadalajara, and the Voladores of Papantla, demonstrating a traditional ritual of the ancient civilization that occupied what is now the state of Veracruz and which was recognized as Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) by UNESCO in 2009.

Most of the time you can also admire beautiful sand statues made by local artists, not to mention, paintings and other creative handicrafts. 

Learn about the Indigenous Textil Tradition in the colorful San Cristobal de las Casas

San Cristobal de las Casas is one of my favorite places in Mexico and although it’s been growing a lot in the past years with a huge amount of tourist arrivals and foreigners moving there (I don’t blame them), with everything that it implies, the vibrant city didn’t lose its charm.

Walk around the 3 caminadores, streets with no car access, check out the jewelry shops, and walk around the market, that’s what I loved the most about San Cristobal. The textiles market is one of a kind, an outburst of color.

There is an amount of stylish beautiful boutique hotels, where you would want to stay, and vegan-friendly restaurants where to enjoy great meals at a reasonable price, not to talk about the cute little cafes.

The surroundings of San Cristobal de las Casas are also unmissable, with waterfalls, lagoons, and other natural beauties to explore.

Be mesmerized by the beauty of the Waterfalls Velo de Novia and the Montebello Lagoon in Chiapas

I was mentioning in the paragraph above about the natural wonders in the surroundings of San Cristobal.

Well, this is one of them. I cannot say my favorite because the competition is high, but you will surely want to go and check it out. You are really better off going on a tour unless you have your own car.

The tour would take you to the Lagunas de Montebello National park and then to the El Chiflon waterfalls . It’s a spectacular easy hike on a boardwalk following the river flow until you get to the spectacular falls. So breathtaking and wet 🙂

Meet the spider monkeys in Punta Laguna

Not many people know about it, but Punta Laguna is a protected area located on the way to Valladolid coming from Tulum.

There you can spot playful and sometimes naughty spider monkeys at a very short distance and if you are lucky you might also see howling monkeys.

There is also a lagoon that you can navigate and a tiny cenote that you can explore with a little adventure. It’s a nice short trip if you are in Tulum .

Visit the secluded archeological site of Kohunlich

Nobody talks about it, but it’s one of the most spectacular archeological sites I have ever visited. It’s located on the way to Calakmul and you should make time to visit Kokunlich you might want to stay in the nearby all-inclusive property Explorean Kohunlich , an oasis in the jungle. Especially if you have been traveling for a while this is the best place to rest.

Walk around the yellow town of Izamal

Izamal is a beautiful and quaint colonial town located 68km from Merida and 254km from Cancun, it is one of the two towns in Yucatan (the other one is Valladolid) to have been included in the list of Pueblos Magicos  of Mexico, due to its interesting history and culture, and its peculiar location, surrounded by Mayan archeological sites and cenotes .

In fact, the picturesque town was also given the name, “the town of the hills,” because of the numerous Mayan settlements which have been discovered in the surrounding area.

As soon as you get there you will know why it’s called the yellow town.

You may also like:

51 Interesting Facts About Mexican History

See the pink flamingoes in the biosphere of celestún.

It’s a show that you will never forget. Just at about 2 hours from Merida, Celestún is a very small and insignificant town on the coast of the Mexican Gulf, the beach is not particularly interesting, but they have a special unique treasure.

A huge lagoon, home of a flamingo colony. There are thousands of these graceful creatures that fly across the lagoon and mingle with other bird species. You can take a tour either from the bridge at the town entrance or on the beach as well.

It’s definitely worth the trip.

Explore the archaeological site of Uxmal

To me the most interesting site within the Ruta Puuc in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Uxmal is the most representative settlement of the Puuc region architecture, with its hieroglyphic panels and mascarons and the peculiar layout of the buildings which reveal their mastery in astronomy.

If you can hire a guide it will be great to learn about the history behind the magnificent pre-Hispanic city. In this article, you will find more detailed information.

Spend a few days in Valladolid and familiarize yourself with the Yucatecan culture (food included…if you are not vegan)

Valladolid is the first colonial town when you leave the ultra-touristy Riviera Maya and it’s a special place to me.

It’s becoming more and more of a popular hub for travelers in search of an authentic cultural experience in Mexico but despite the growing number of visitors, it’s keeping the genuine vibes of a local town and yet with a lot to offer.

Spectacular colonial houses refurbished in design hotels restaurants and showrooms, museums, great food, and natural beauties.

In fact, Valladolid is surrounded by spectacular cenotes to discover and there is even one in the heart of town. You should definitely go and here is a useful guide to help you get around.

Visit the archeological site of Chichen-Itzà one of the seven wonders of the world

You cannot go to Mexico and ignore this spectacular archeological site, a symbol of the impressive genius of the Mayan civilization, their constructing abilities, and astronomical knowledge. It will blow your mind. I assure you.

My best advice is to get there very early in the morning at 8 am when the gates open so that you avoid the crowd.

If you are coming from Cancun to Chichen Itza

Snorkeling in Cabo Pulmo

That was one of the most amazing snorkeling trips I have had. It was cold and I was shivering in the water, but I have seen so much both below and above the water.

Swimming with the sea lions was so much fun and also watching the playful whales jumping in the air so gracefully for such huge creatures.

It was an incredible experience and I talk more about it everything you need to know about Cabo Pulmo and getting there is a detailed post.

Enjoy the deserted beach at El Cuyo

Discovered by a kitesurfer, this off-the-beaten-track beach in Yucatan, might not have the Caribbean colors but sometimes it’s even better.

On sunny days you still have the Caribbean turquoise water and the tranquility of an unpopulated beach.

El Cuyo is a tiny beautiful community of locals and expatriates that shares a love for nature and tranquillity. This is a place you will easily fall in love with.

Hike in the Sierra de la Laguna in Baja California

Located in the southern end of Baja California, between  La Paz  and Los Cabos, the Sierra de La Laguna is a very unique region with an extension of 112,437 hectares that includes a mix of rugged mountains, canyons, and vast dry plains.

Proclaimed a protected biosphere by UNESCO in 1994, the Sierra la Laguna Biosphere Reserve constitutes an area of ​​great biodiversity, it is the only coniferous forest, palm grove, scrub, and pine-oak forest in the state and the only rain forest in the Baja California peninsula. ( Source )

This beautiful area with spectacular contrasting landscape attracts visitors from all over the world who want to explore its narrow trails to hike and camp.

The Sierra de la Laguna was the first stop of my  2 weeks road trip itinerary around Baja California , and I loved it.

Spend a few days in the beautiful Holbox Island

Located off the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, in the state of Quintana Roo, Holbox is one of those places that you need to see once in your life.

It’s a tiny island with a hippie vibe and a lazy lifestyle, where all you have to do is enjoy the beach and connect with nature.

There are  one-day tours from the Riviera Maya and Cancun to Holbox  if you don’t have more time to stay on the island.

However, I believe that in order to appreciate it even more and really enjoy it, you should stay at least a couple of nights and one full day. If you could make it 3 nights you will have a blast, the only risk is that you will never want to leave.

Also, I believe that most of the experience you will have in Isla Holbox will depend on the hotel you choose as well. It doesn’t have to be luxury, although it would make it extra special. Find out what are the best hotel options in Holbox and chose your favorite.

Spend a day in the Anthropological Museum in Mexico City

I know I should have put Mexico City among the first unique places to visit in Mexico. It’s a vibrant multicultural city, very controversial but with lots of beauty in it.

There is so much to see and do in Mexico City but I have been there about three times for short periods and every time I ended up in the Anthropological Museum. You can spend a whole day there and never finish exploring it.

It’s a collection of archeological finds that narrate the history of Mexico from the pre-hispanic era up to modern times and contains the world’s largest collection of ancient Mexican art. 

Visit las Grutas de Tolantongo

Las Grutas de Tolantongo is the most spectacular Mexican hot spring located in the state of Hidalgo. It’s a favorite spot for dreamy Instagram pictures and one of th e top natural wonders in Mexico .

I have finally made it there and I wrote a detailed guide to las Grutas de Tolantong o where I explain how to get there, the things to do, and other practical tips on how to enjoy the place to the fullest.

Explore the Mexican culture in one of the Mexican Pueblos Magicos

The Mexican Pueblos Magicos are about 133 Mexican towns proclaimed “Magic” for their charm, a profound cultural heritage, or their natural resources.

There are so many, among which San Cristobal de las Casas , considered the most Magic of the Pueblos Magicos, for its interesting culture and pretty cobblestone roads, or the spectacular Isla Mujeres , renowned for its turquoise water and white sand beaches.

There are plenty of places to visit, let me know which one did you choose.

✨ Mexico Travel Planning Guide ✨

👉 do i need travel insurance to travel to mexico.

I would do it if I were you. You never know what can happen and know that no matter what, you will be covered with any expenses will give you peace of mind, and make your travel worry-free. You can check out SafetyWing which I have used and find it affordable and comprehensive and also Travel Insurance Master w hich is great because you can insert all your information and what kind of insurance you need and their system will pull out the best insurance for your need.

🚰 Can I Drink Tap Water in Mexico?

No, you can’t! Maybe in some areas or in some homes where they have installed water filters but to be on the safe side, I would say, never drink tap water in Mexico. Carry a water bottle with you and fill it up where you find available potable water sources. Most of the hotels have those.

🚗 Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?

The short answer is: depending on where you are. Although in general if you stick to the main roads and don’t drive at night you should probably be safe. In lesser tourist areas you should probably check the local news to stay up to date. Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is easy everywhere, even at night, although I would still avoid it. I recommend Discover Cars because the site offers the option to compare prices among different car rentals and you can add their own full coverage.

Read more on my guide on Renting a car in Mexico .

📱 Will My Phone Work in Mexico?

It will probably work, especially if you have a European or US phone, but your roaming rates may be to the stars (check with your SIM provider). Even if have an affordable international rate, you will be much better off by buying a Mexican SIM Card . It’s cheap, easy to set up, and it will keep you connected with your friends, family, and, more important, google Maps so you will never get lost!

🤕 Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now?

The short answer is, yes it is. However, there are parts of Mexico that are indeed troubled and you should avoid for now, and others that are super safe and easy to travel around.

Regardless of where you are you should always use some common sense rules such as, never flaunting expensive clothing, accessories, electronics, or money and keeping a low profile.

Read more on my detailed guide on safety in Mexico . If you are traveling to a specific destination I have got you covered as well:

• Is Cancun Safe?
• Is Tulum Safe?
• Is Puerto Vallarta safe?

💉 Do I Need Any Vaccine to Travel to Mexico?

No, there is no vaccine requirement (of any kind) to travel to Mexico

🇲🇽 Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Mexico?

If you are coming from the US or Europe you don’t need a VISA to enter Mexico. Once you get in you need to fill out a form that you need to keep with you until you leave. If you don’t have it you will pay a fine. Although the tourist visa for US and European travelers used to be 6 months long which you could easily renew by leaving the country for a couple of days and going back, nowadays they have been stricter. You may be asked how you would sustain your living and other similar questions. Sometimes they even ask you to show your credit cards. It seems odd but they can do that. If you intend to stay longer than a usual couple of weeks’ vacation time, just be honest and explain your plans. If you are not from the US, check this site to see if you need a visa

💸 Where Do I Find the Best Travel Deals for Mexico? 💸

A trip to Mexico can be expensive if you love to travel with all the comforts (like I do). There are a few tricks that will help you find the best deals. Here are my tips:

👉 DON’T travel in the high season, which is Holy week, Christmas and winter in general, and August. 👉 Book months in advance to find early booking discounts 👉 Use aggregators such as Discover Cars to find price comparisons and VRBO for vacation rentals! 👉 Look for packages flights+hotels on Expedia . 👉 Check on Booking.com or Hotels.com for hotel deals

Happy travels!!

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Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

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Mexico Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 2, 2024

While most people visit Mexico for its big tourist centers like Tulum , Cabo, Cancun , or Cozumel, there’s a lot more to the country than just its luxurious resorts.

Now, I’ll be honest: I was late to visiting Mexico.

But when I did, I fell in love with it. Mexico is an incredible destination with a rich history, amazing food, and friendly people.

It’s an awesome country to backpack around, drive through, or just vacation in. There’s a ton of stuff to do here, and the locals are some of the friendliest people on the planet.

From Mayan ruins to pristine beaches to Mexico City’s art and food and Oaxaca’s mezcal scene, Mexico has it all.

And the food? World-class. Gorge yourself on delicious tacos, tostadas, tamales, sopas, seafood, and mole (to name a few items from Mexico’s very long list of traditional dishes).

I could go on forever as to why I love this country. Whatever amount of time you’re planning to visit is not enough — you’ll always leave wanting more.

This Mexico travel guide will help you get out of the touristy towns, explore the country, and fall in love with what you discover!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Mexico

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in mexico.

1. Explore Oaxaca

Located in a valley surrounded by craggy mountains in southwestern Mexico, Oaxaca and its surrounds have been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. A city of colorful buildings, scenic rooftop restaurants and bars, street art, historic Spanish colonial churches, cobblestone streets, and many parks, it’s a center for heritage tourism. It’s also one of the gastronomic hotbeds of Mexico as well as the hub of mezcal production too. With fascinating museums, bustling markets, historic buildings, delicious food and much more, there really is something for everyone in Oaxaca . I loved my time there ! You must visit!

2. Tour Mexico City

Found in the Valley of Mexico at an altitude of around 2,225 meters (7,300 feet), Mexico City is a sprawling, chaotic, messy city in the best way possible. Originally built over a lake, it has some 150 world-class museums, sprawling markets, tons of historic buildings, city squares, and more. In the historic center, you can visit the impressive main square (the only one bigger in the world is Red Square in Moscow). To the south of the city there’s a network of beautiful canals, and Teotihuacan, the City of the Gods, is just a 45-minute drive away. The city also has an incredible foodie scene and is fast becoming one of the centers of gastronomy in the world.

3. Relax on the Pacific Coast

Vacation spots like Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, and Sayulita on Mexico’s Pacific Coast offer just as many epic beaches and resort properties as the Caribbean Coast. Go to Puerto Vallarta or Los Cabos to hang out on the pristine white sandy beaches, or head to Sayulita to check out the busy surf scene. Surf and enjoy watersports, visit historical monuments, and check out all the local art by day. By night, you can indulge in sunset cocktails, enjoy fresh shrimp tacos or seafood skewers, and salsa the evening away.

4. See the Mayan Ruins

Mexico is filled with ruins. You have Chichén Itzá, which dates back to 550 CE and is one of the largest (and most popular) Mayan sites in Mexico for its enormous Kukulkan Pyramid (which is considered one of the new Wonders of the World). Other ruins worth visiting are the Tulum Archaeological Zone, the Palenque Archaeological Zone, the Calakmul ruins (which are inside the huge Calakmul Biosphere Reserve), the ruins at Ek Balam, and so many more! Admission is 571 MXN for the Wonder of the World Chichén Itzá while the rest cost anywhere from 80-500 MXN.

5. Visit a volcano

Other things to see and do in mexico, 1. wander through mexico city’s chapultepec park.

Chapultepec is one of the largest city parks in the world, spanning over 1,700 acres. It encompasses the Mexico City Zoo, La Feria amusement park, and the Museum of Anthropology, which houses a vast collection of sculptures, jewels, and artifacts from ancient Mexican civilizations. The museum costs 85 MXN, as does the Chapultepec Castillo (Castle) which houses the National History Museum. You can also rent a rowboat or paddle boat and go out on Chapultepec Lake for 60 MXN. Entry to the park itself is free.

2. Visit the markets

Just about every town in Mexico has a busy, diverse market where you can enjoy traditional food, pick up some bargain items, and purchase souvenirs. Two of the best are the Mercado Ciudadela in Mexico City (for handmade textiles and artwork), and Oaxaca’s Mercado Benito Juárez (for local foods like fresh ground coffee beans, juices, and grasshopper tacos). If you’re in Merida, check out Mercado Santa Ana for their Yucatecan cuisine, like cochito horneado , a marinated pork dish that is slow-cooked in underground pits, or head to El Mercado Lucas de Galvez for their specialty seafood cocktails (the locals swear by it to cure your hangover).

3. Explore Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución)

Zócalo is the main plaza in the heart of Mexico City. It dates back to the Aztecs, encompassing both the Templo Mayor (an ancient Aztec temple) and the Palacio Nacional (a colonial palace with offices of Mexico’s president). Situated just off the Zócalo is La Catedral Metropolitana, a magnificent cathedral with a gold altar. It’s a perfect example of Spanish colonial architecture.

4. Go diving

The seas surrounding Mexico have some of the world’s best diving spots thanks to their diverse marine life, large coral reefs (including the second largest reef system in the world, the Great Maya Barrier Reef), and excellent visibility. The Gulf of Mexico is home to five different species of sea turtles, blue whales, lemon sharks, and dolphins, and so much more! Aside from diving, the waters are popular for snorkeling, sports fishing, waterboarding, surfing, and more or less any other watersports. A two-tank dive starts at 2,800 MXN. Some of the best places to dive in Mexico are Discovery Bay, Cenote Dos Ojos, Revillagigedo Islands, and Isla Mujeres.

5. Relax in Cancún

Depending on what you’re looking to do, Cancún can offer you a crazy-fun party in the sun or some quiet and hidden local markets and restaurants. You have spas, resorts, and picturesque beaches as well as Mayan ruins, archaeological sites, and little nearby villages. There’s a ton to see and do here if you leave the resorts!

6. Get lost in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the second-largest city in Mexico and is known for its tequila and mariachi. It’s chock full of museums, such as Cabañas (a UNESCO building with incredible murals), MUSA (paintings & sculptures by local artists), and the Páramo Galeria (contemporary art); nightlife venues, and a labyrinth of old colonial streets. Visit the Hospicio Cabañas, a hospital built in the 19th century, and then spend some time at the Guadalajara Cathedral. The cathedral’s Gothic interior features artworks from famous Mexican artists like Murillo (a Baroque painter).

7. See Teotihuacan

The Aztec empire left an enormous mark on Mexico. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Aztec pyramids at Teotihuacan, located 48 kilometers (30 miles) outside of Mexico City. Teotihuacan was founded as early as 400 BCE, but its biggest structures weren’t completed until around 300 BCE. Its three giant pyramids are known as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of Moon, and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, and they dominate the landscape. If you’re going to visit just one Aztec site, this is it. It’s unsheltered here, so bring sunscreen and a hat. Admission is 85 MXN. Full-day guided tours from Mexico City cost 880 MXN.

8. Visit the bizarre Island of Dolls

Known as “La Isla de la Muñecas” in Spanish, this is perhaps one of the creepiest tourist attractions in the world. Decades ago, a hermit named Don Julian Santana moved here, learned a girl drowned in the nearby lake, and started collecting and hanging dolls all over the island to please the drowned girl’s spirit. It’s creepy. Like beyond creepy. You’ll have to hire a boat from Xochimilco to get there but it’s worth it!

9. Honor the Day of the Dead

Yearly on November 1st and 2nd, Mexico celebrates a major festival: Día de Los Muertos. The festival is a vibrant and lively affair with celebrations for those who are gone but not forgotten, including parades and elaborate and colorful costumes. Families also commemorate their dead relatives by setting up ofrendas , or altars, with pictures of the deceased, candles, yellow marigold petals, and food. This meant to encourage the deceased to cross back over into the land of the living and join in the celebrations. Oaxaca or Mexico City are the two best places to experience this celebration.

10. Visit the UNAM Botanical Garden

If you need to escape the hustle and bustle of Mexico City for a little while, the Botanical Garden at the National Autonomous University of Mexico is the perfect place. Keeping with the Aztec traditions of having gardens for both medicinal and ornamental purposes, there is also an added focus on conservation and environmental education here. Built on top of and around lava formations from the eruption of the volcano Xitle (which happened over 2,000 years ago), visitors can explore the naturally formed grottoes, ponds, and waterfalls. This garden has the most diverse cactus collection in the world (800 different kinds!), and ponds full of koi and turtles, an orchidarium, and a medicinal garden. Admission is free.

11. Relax on Isla Holbox

Holbox is an island located off Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and is home to white sand beaches and crystalline waters. It is a relaxing, slow-paced island that’s easy to get stuck on. One day can easily turn into a week. It’s an island paradise where you can relax in a hammock on the beach, hike in the jungles, swim, dive, snorkel, and everything in between! While it used to be a hidden gem, it’s slowly becoming more and more popular (and developed). Be sure to see bioluminescent waters here. From Cancún, you can get to the ferry port at Chiquilá in around two hours by bus. The ferry takes 25 minutes and costs 220 MXN. If you just want to visit for the day, full-day tours from Cancún/Playa del Carmen cost 3,000 MXN.

12. Visit Mérida

Mérida is one of my favorite places in all of Mexico. It is a safe and wonderful city filled with history, cool mezcal bars, and some of the best food in the country. Some of my favorite places to eat and drink in town are La Chaya Maya Casona, Acervo Mezcalero, La Negrita Cantina, and Café Créme. Also, don’t miss the nearby Uxmal ruins, which are just one-hour away. There are also some cool museums here, like the Folk Art Museum of Yucatan, the Yucatan Music Museum, and the City Museum (which has all kinds of Mayan artifacts). For accommodation suggestions, check out this post on where to stay in Merida .

13. Enjoy San Cristóbal de las Casas’ architecture

San Cristóbal is a highland town known for its charming colonial architecture. There are narrow cobblestone streets, local craft markets, and the entire area is enveloped in pine forests. Don’t miss the town’s 16th-century cathedral, and if you want to get out and explore the nearby nature, take a boat tour of the Cañón de Sumidero. You’ll see tons of birds, monkeys, and crocodiles. For a view of the town and surrounding area, visit the Guadalupe Church to enjoy the view from the roof. Free Walking San Cristóbal offers daily tours if you want a guide to show you the highlights.

14. Sample the Cenotes of Yucatan

Cenotes are natural sinkholes that are full of groundwater. They were used by the Mayans as sources for freshwater, however, today they are popular swimming holes for locals and tourists alike (you can even scuba dive in some). There are tons of them all around the Yucatan Peninsula. Some are completely exposed, some are walled in by cliffs, and some are covered entirely by caves. Calavera, Cristalino, Casa Cenote, Yaxmuul, Choo-Ha, and Escondido Cenote are some of the most popular cenotes in the region. If you’d rather do a tour, you can join a cenote tour for around 1,350 MXN.

15. Visit Sayulita

Located on the Pacific coast, Sayulita is a hip beach town with a lively community of expats and surfers. The town has a laid-back vibe owing to the sizable surfing and yoga community. It’s a great place to surf and there are plenty of yoga retreats available here. You can also take a jungle trek, go zip lining, ride ATVs along the coast, and simply soak up the sun on the beach. It’s the perfect place to chill for a few days. Canopy tours start at 1,800 MXN.

16. Explore Campeche

Campeche is located just south of Merida on the Yucatan. It’s home to UNESCO World Heritage colonial architecture, including fortified walls and over 2,000 historic buildings. Visit the Museo De La Arquitectura Maya for Mayan history and antiquities, see the Mayan ruins at Edzná (which is just 45 minutes away and sees very few tourists), and wander the old city wall to take in the view.

  For information on specific cities in Mexico, check out these guides:

• Cancún Travel Guide
• Mexico City Travel Guide
• Oaxaca Travel Guide

Mexico Travel Costs

Accommodation – In Mexico, hostels start at 250 MXN per night for a dorm bed, but average closer to 300 MXN. Private hostel rooms cost anything from 600-1,900 MXN per night. Prices are usually a bit lower in the low-season or shoulder-season. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are both common, as are self-catering facilities.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic plot for two people without electricity costs around 200 MXN per night.

For budget hotels, expect to pay 700 MXN for a basic room in a two-star hotel. These two-star rooms typically include an en-suite bathroom and free Wi-Fi, but not always air conditioning.

Airbnb is also an option in Mexico, with private rooms starting around 300 MXN but averaging much more (usually between 600-1,200 MXN). Entire homes and apartments average around 1,000-1,800 MXN although you can find them for as little as 600 MXN if you book early.

Food – You’ll find a lot of rice, beans, fruits, and veggies like tomatoes, corn, avocado, and peppers in Mexican cuisine, which is a mix of Mayan, Aztec, and Spanish traditions. Typical Mexican dishes include tacos, mole (a sauce with lots of ingredients, often including chocolate), salsa, enchiladas, tamales (stuffed corn pockets), pozole (hominy stew topped with onion, avocado, and chili), and guacamole.

Street stalls and markets are the best way to go for authentic and inexpensive food. Tacos, quesadilla, sopas, tortas, and other street foods are generally 15-45 MXN. Sometimes, you’ll find tacos for as cheap as 10 MXN. In Mexico, street food is the best — and most affordable — option.

A meal at a local Mexican restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 150 MXN. Look for the ones filled with locals as that is generally a sign that the food is really good. Expect to pay around 300 MXN for a multi-course meal in a mid-range restaurant.

A beer is about 20 MXN in the street but double that at a restaurant, while a cocktail shouldn’t cost more than 80 MXN in most places. A combo meal at McDonald’s costs around 120 MXN and a cappuccino costs around 50 MXN.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico. If you’re buying bottles of water, expect to pay 15 MXN (less if you buy in bulk but a more environmentally friendly (and cheaper) solution is to bring a portable water purifier ( LifeStraw makes a good one.

If you plan to cook your meals, expect to pay between 750 MXN per week for groceries including rice, vegetables, chicken, and beans.

Backpacking Mexico Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Mexico, expect to spend around 800 MXN per day. This budget gets you a hostel dorm, street food and self-cooked meals, public transportation, and a few attractions (such as museums and galleries) each day. If you plan on eating out more or drinking, you’ll need to add another 100 MXN per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 1,800 MXN per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out at restaurants serving cheap traditional cuisine for every meal, visit more attractions, enjoy a few drinks, and take the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,600 MXN or more per day, you can stay at a hotel, eat out for all your meals, enjoy plenty of drinks, take taxis everywhere or rent a car, and do some guided trips and tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MXN.

Mexico Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Mexico is incredibly budget-friendly. Unless you’re splurging on food or resorts, it’s really easy to visit on a budget. That said, it never hurts to save more money! Here are some ways to save in Mexico:

• Shop at the markets for food – Mexico’s markets are a great place to eat inexpensively and stock up on food for day trips. Most towns have a local market selling fresh fruits, veggies, and other goods for cheap.
• Eat street food – Street food is the best food in the country — and the cheapest. Stick to street stalls to save money and enjoy the country’s best eats.
• Take a free walking tour – Many cities have free walking tours that give you a solid introduction to the main sights. Both Mexico City and Oaxaca have excellent free tours — just be sure to tip your guide!
• Travel off-season – By traveling between late April and early December, you can pick up bargain accommodation, food and travel rates as this is low season.
• Venture inland – Mexico’s coasts are the most famous, most touristy parts of the country, but the interior has an amazing amount to offer. Prices are cheaper, and you’ll be more likely to meet some locals if you head away from the coast.
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals and connect with people who can share their insider tips and advice. Just make sure to send your requests early.
• Embrace “comida corrida” – This hearty mid-day meal option is usually available between 2pm-4pm and is often quite affordable. It’s a set menu, but it’s much cheaper than most lunch or dinner options. If you plan on eating out on a budget, aim for places that offer comida corrida.
• Drink less – Alcohol is cheap in Mexico, but it’s definitely more expensive at bars and clubs. Try to buy your alcohol from a local store instead of drinking at the bar if you’re on a budget.
• Skip the taxis – Taxis are overpriced and not always safe. Skip them. If you do need a taxi, don’t just hail one on the street. Head into a nearby hotel/hostel and ask them to call one for you. Only get in taxis that use a meter.
• Being a water filter – Since the tap water here isn’t safe to drink and single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water bottle with a built-in filter. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Mexico

Hostels are plentiful in most of Mexico’s cities. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Mexico:

• Suites DF Hostel (Mexico City)
• Mexico City Hostel (Mexico City)
• Hostel Ka’beh Cancún (Cancún)
• Mama’s Home (Tulum)
• Gran Hostal (Playa del Carmen)
• Casa Angel Youth Hostel (Oaxaca)

How to Get Around Mexico

Public transportation – Public buses (also known as camiones ) are the most common way to get around in cities and towns (and to nearby villages). These buses are also the cheapest, costing no more than a few pesos per journey. In some cities, smaller microbuses have replaced the older buses, but the cost is still the same.

Mexico City and Guadalajara have subway systems. One-way tickets for the subway and the bus system are around 5 MXN. In Mexico City, you’ll have to buy a rechargeable Metro Card at any of the Metro stations for 15 MXN, and you can use the card for the Metro, Metrobús, Light Rail, Ecobici, Trolleybus, RTP buses, and on Cablebús.

Bus – Most of Mexico is served by buses. On longer journeys, make sure to take an express bus (called a “directo”) if you can as they are much faster and stop less. A bus from Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara (5.5 hours) costs around 585 MXN. A bus from Cancún to Mexico City (27 hours) costs around 1,800 MXN. A bus from Puebla to Mexico City (2 hours) costs around 200 MXN.

Some of the biggest and most reliable bus companies include:

• Primera Plus
• Estrella de Oro
• Omnibuses de Mexico
• ETN (Enlaces Terrestres Nacionales)

Most cities have a central bus terminal from where all long-distance buses depart. You can show up to buy your ticket, or research routes and ticket prices via each company’s website.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – There are virtually no passenger train services remaining in Mexico. For long-distance travel, you’ll need to fly or take the bus.

Flying – For long journeys, consider flying. The route from Cancún to Mexico City by bus takes 27 hours and costs around 1,800 MXN but a flight starts around 470 MXN and only takes two hours. A one-way fare from Mexico City to Guadalajara is about 525 MXN. Even a four-hour flight from coast to coast from Cancún to Puerto Vallarta is just 1,200 MXN one-way.

Aeroméxico is the biggest airline in Mexico, but low-cost carriers are becoming more popular. These include:

• VivaAerobus

Car rentals – Car rentals are surprisingly affordable in Mexico. You can find week-long rentals for around 3,000 MXN. Renters must be 21 years of age and have had their license for at least two years. Some companies require renters to be over 25 and it’s best to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). Avoid driving at night, when crimes against drivers are more likely to occur. Also, don’t leave any valuables in your vehicle overnight as break-ins can occur.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Mexico

Summer (June to October) is the rainy season in Mexico, but this is mostly just in the center of the country. You can expect it to rain each day heavily, but the downpour is usually short. It hardly ever rains in the northern part of the country, and humidity is thick in the south and along the coastal areas. Temperatures during this time hover somewhere between 26-32°C (79-90°F).

September to the middle of October is hurricane season and is not a good time to visit.

December to the end of April (winter) is the busiest tourist season as temperatures are hot, but the coastal areas provide plenty of relief for vacationers. This is the best time to visit if you’re looking to take advantage of Mexico’s tropical environment. It’s the dry season, so you’ll experience very little rain. You can expect big crowds as people flock to the resort areas around Cancún and Puerto Vallarta.

The average daily temperature during this time is 28°C (82°F). But if you’re in the mountains, pack lots of layers! It can get frigid, especially in the evenings.

How to Stay Safe in Mexico

The media (especially the American media) likes to paint Mexico as a dangerous place to visit but the reality is far more complex. While petty theft is very common in Mexico, most of the serious conflicts occur between the authorities and Mexican drug cartels. The people who tend to be involved in major incidents are usually doing drugs or taking part in sex tourism. Avoid those, and you’ll drastically increase your chances of staying safe.

Moreover, where you are greatly influences how safe you are. Yucatan and Oaxaca are incredibly safe states to visit while states near the US border are less so and more likely to experience violence and crime.

Officials looking for bribes are pretty common in Quintana Roo, as is drug-related violence due to tourists looking for drugs there. States near the southern border can also be sketchy and it’s wiser to keep an eye out on your stuff there though violent crime is pretty uncommon.

So don’t believe the media that “Mexico is unsafe.” Mexico is like any big country – some parts are safe, and some parts aren’t. Use some common sense when you travel: don’t flash your money, avoid wearing expensive watches or jewelry, don’t walk along drunk at night, make copies of your passport and official documents, and tell people where you are regularly.

Another important safety tip to keep in mind is about the water. While Mexico’s water purification and treatment systems have improved, it still is not safe to drink ordinary tap water when visiting. Luckily, bottled water is available everywhere. Bringing water filter like LifeStraw is advised as it has a built-in filter so your water is always clean and safe.

Keep an eye out for common scams against tourists , such as fake ATMs, taxis that don’t use a meter, and questionable tour operators.

The emergency services number in Mexico is 911. However, if that doesn’t work (since it isn’t in use in every region of Mexico), try 066.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Mexico Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Mexico Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Mexico and continue planning your trip:

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

Is Tulum Safe?

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• Where To Stay
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• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

35 Best Places to Visit in Mexico Right Now [2024]

Looking for the best places to go in mexico?

You’ve landed on the right article — because I live in Mexico and have traveled to 16 states thus far, so you might call me a Mexpert!

I know first-hand there’s no shortage of colorful colonial cities, beautiful beaches in Mexico and pueblos magicos (magic towns), which made compiling this list of the best places to visit in Mexico very hard.

While the list showcases just 35 places, Mexico is chock full of historic cities reminiscent of Europe, just much more colorful!

The best places to visit in Mexico here showcase large- and medium-sized cities, but there’s also some smaller pueblos on this list as well.

Ready to discover the 35 best vacation spots in Mexico?

Beyond their physical beauty, these best places to go in Mexico are also historic; many even designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site or Mexico pueblo magico (which means “magic town”).

If you’ve been wanting to travel to Mexico, let’s get to the list — which will be all the inspiration you need to finally book that Mexico trip!

Best Places to visit in Mexico

1. merida, yucatan.

Merida Mexico takes the top spot on the list because it’s the safest city in Mexico.

Located in the Yucatan Peninsula not far from the most popular Mexico places to vacation, like Cancun , Riviera Maya and Tulum — Merida feels like it’s a world away, with a more charming, small town feel.

I just so happen to live in Merida, and have a whole site dedicated to it! Please visit Travel To Merida for all things Merida.

Known as the Cultural Capital of Yucatan, Merida is the best place to vacation in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula to explore the area’s rich Mayan history.

There’s really no end to the amazing things to do in Merida — from museums to Merida restaurants serving traditional Yucatan food .

🗿 Uxmal Ruins, Yucatan

Located in the near-dead center of the Yucatan Peninsula, Merida’s location offers a great home base to take day trips from Merida and explore the surrounding area. One of the most popular Merida sites is Uxmal Mayan Ruins .

One of the best Mayan Ruins near Merida , Uxmal (pronounced yoush-mall) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of five ancient sites on the Ruta Puuc (Puuc Route), and the most visited of them all.

Unlike at Chichén Itzá Ruins, you can climb the Uxmal pyramids!

🏖️ Costa Esmerelda, Yucatan Beaches

Merida is not on the beach; rather it’s about 40 minutes to the nearest beach, Puerto Progreso . This is a popular stop on cruises in the Gulf of Mexico, and the most visited of all beaches near Merida , though there are others.

The Costa Esmerelda (Emerald Coast, named for its emerald-colored water) stretches from Puerto Chuburna Beach on the west about 61-miles (98 km) east to Dzilam de Bravo

There are other great Yucatan beach towns along the way, including Progreso, Chicxulub and Telchac.

Besides the beaches near Merida, there are also many great Merida cenotes to swim in. These “sinkholes,” or natural jungle pools, are found all over the Yucatan Peninsula, with hundreds located within an hour or two of Merida.

Merida (AKA La Ciudad Blanca , or The White City) is considered one of the best places to live in Mexico as well. If the city sounds like it might be for you, check out this guide to Living in Merida .

2. San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

San Miguel de Allende (SMA, for short) is located in Central Mexico, about 3.5 hours from Mexico City.

In fact, it is one of the best day trips from Mexico City , especially for foodies, wine lovers and artists — Join the San Miguel de Allende Day Trip from Mexico City and find out!

SMA is a Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Guanajuato State, a state known as the most colorful in all Mexico.

The top travel destination in the state, San Miguel de Allende is also among the best places to go to in Mexico, in any state.

In the last 15 years, many American, European and Canadian expats have relocated here.

San Miguel de Allende is considered one of the best places to retire in Mexico with its “Eternal Spring” climate, which makes it the perfect year-round destination for any Mexico itinerary !

Beyond perfect weather, San Miguel de Allende is stunning and historic. The iconic Mexico architecture is well-preserved in San Miguel, and each home, building and street is prettier than the next.

The iconic, Baroque-style Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel is a must-see.

This large, pink, San Miguel de Allende Cathedral is the centerpiece of town. It is located in a lovely and well-manicured park, Jardín Allende (Allende Garden), which serves as the town square, and is lively day and night.

3. Tulum, Quintana Roo

In the last decade, Tulum, Mexico has become one of the top places for vacation in Mexico.

This beachfront city is one of the best places in Mexico for vacation for those seeking Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, swimmable cenotes , great nightlife and Instagram worthy photo ops.

Ultimate Tulum Travel Planning Guide for First Time Visitors

Tulum is a Mexico pueblo magico (magic town) located right on the Caribbean Sea; some of the best Mexico real estate there is!

The closest airport to Tulum is Cancun International Airport (code: CUN), and then you’ll need Cancun to Tulum transportation .

🗿 Tulum ruins, quintana roo

Tulum’s geography is part jungle, part beach. It is often called the “Bali of Mexico,” because it’s similar to Bali, in that way.

Tulum and the surrounding areas have several Mexico Mayan Ruins in Yucatan to explore, similar to the Hindu temples in Bali, Indonesia.

One of the best Mayan temples in Mexico is the Tulum Ruins. Though a smaller site, the Ruins of Tulum are located on a cliff, overlooking the Caribbean Sea, so they’re among the most beautiful.

After exploring this Mayan site, you can even go for a swim in the sea directly below.

🤿 Gran Cenote & Tulum Cenotes

Besides the beautiful beaches, don’t miss the Tulum cenotes . Some of the most Instagrammable places in Mexico, these freshwater jungle pools make for a nice alternative to the Caribbean Sea.

Among of the best cenotes in Tulum, and cenotes near Tulum, don’t miss these:

• Gran Cenote
• Cenote Suytun
• Cenote Calavera
• Cenote Dos Ojos
• Cenote Zacil-Ha

While there’s no end to the number of things to do in Tulum , in recent years, it has become increasingly expensive.

However, Tulum on a budget is certainly possible if you’re determined to visit one of the top vacation destinations in Mexico for cheap!

🏝 Looking for a quieter beach town in Mexico? Head to Mahahual , located a few hours south of Tulum on the Costa Maya.

BEST PLACES TO visit IN MEXICO

4. mexico city.

When making a Mexico Popular Destinations list, there’s no way to leave off CDMX!

If you’re looking for a big city, Mexico City is one of the best places to travel in Mexico; though Guadalajara and Monterrey are two other big city options.

The ultimate CDMX travel guides!

✅ 3 Day in Mexico City Itinerary ✅ 4 Day Mexico City Itinerary ✅ 5 Day in Mexico City Itinerary

CDMX, as it’s known, is the country’s largest city, and the fifth largest city on Earth.

There are so many things to do in Mexico City , including a visit to Parque Chapultepec ( Chapultepec Park ), one of the largest urban parks in the world, which has the only castle in North America!

Besides that, the best neighborhoods in Mexico City, including Coyoacan , Polanco, Roma and Condesa , have tree-lined streets and buildings in varied architectural styles.

These also have beautiful street art to admire, cool sidewalk cafes and the best parks in Mexico City.

🇲🇽 Centro Historico and zocalo

Though some don’t think beauty and a big city can coexist, that’s not the case in Mexico City.

Among one of the most visually-stimulating parrots of town, Centro Historico and Zocalo (Historic Downtown and the Town Square) is also a Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In Downtown Mexico City, you’ll find the most beautiful and iconic buildings in CDMX.

Perhaps the most photographed place in the city, Palacio Bellas Artes is an Art Deco theater built in 1904, which houses one of the best museums in Mexico City .

A few other noteworthy things to do in Downtown Mexico City include:

• Templo Mayor: Aztec Temple, partially buried underground (A true must see Mexico City site!)
• Catedral Metropolitana: Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral
• Palacio Nacional: National Palace
• Torre Latinoamericana: Latin America Tower skyscraper
• Parque Alameda: Alameda Park, located next to Bellas Artes
• Barrio Chino: Mexico City Chinatown

🛶 Xochimilco, Mexico City

Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mill-co) is a Mexico City UNESCO World Heritage Site. These ancient canals, hand-dug by the Aztecs centuries ago, are still popular with visitors today.

When in CDMX, enjoy a Xochimilco tour to parts on the colorful boats and see the floating gardens.

🦋 Valle de Bravo, Estado de Mexico

Known as “the Hamptons of Mexico City,” nearby Valle de Bravo is a gorgeous lakefront town with a lot to offer.

From November to March, you can visit the Piedra Herrada Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary to see millions of monarch butterflies in Mexico during their annual migration.

🗿 Teotihuacan Ruins, Estado de Mexico

The ancient Teotihuacan Pyramids (pronounced tay-oh-tee-wok-on), located about an hour from Mexico City, are another one of the UNESCO Sites in Mexico.

Built thousands of years ago by the mysterious Teotihuacanos , the best way to experience it is on a Teotihuacan tour .

🏖️ acapulco, guerrero

Wondering, What’s the closest beach to Mexico City? It’s Acapulco, located about five hours away by car.

While not one of the best beaches in Mexico, Acapulco is a popular vacation destination for Mexico City locals — but the hot springs of Las Grutas Tolantongo are another option.

5. Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

Located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta is among the safest beach towns in Mexico with some of the best beaches in Mexico.

It has been one of the best Mexico vacation destinations for decades now, welcoming everyone from Average Joes and Joannas, to Old Hollywood movie stars.

Puerto Vallarta Itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 Days in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

After Richard Burton finished filming the 1964 film, The Night of the Iguana , he and then-wife, Elizabeth Taylor, bought a home (now the Kimberly Hotel & Spa ), and lived together in Puerto Vallarta for years.

Unlike other Mexico beach towns, Puerto Vallarta still retains its Old World charm.

🏝️ Islas Marietas secret beach in Mexico

Not many know there’s a secret beach in Mexico, because well, it’s a secret!

The Mexico hidden beach , called Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach), is part of Islas Marietas National Park, and accessible only by boat. Located off the coast of Puerto Vallarta, the Marietas Islands are simply magical.

💎 nuevo vallarta, nayarit

Just 20 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta has gorgeous beaches and amazing resorts like Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit , Dreams Villamagna Nuevo Vallarta , Grand Luxxe at Vidanta and Marival Armony .

Besides vacationers, it’s also a popular place for Mexico digital nomads .

🏝️ yelapa, jalisco

Located on the Bay of Banderas, Yelapa is one of the best preserved towns on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.

It is best accessed on a boat tour from Puerto Vallarta — where you may see whales and dolphins along the way. At Yelapa, there’s waterfalls, beaches and horseback riding trails.

As far as vacation places in Mexico that check off a lot of boxes, Puerto Vallarta is an ideal place for your Mexico vacation.

It has everything from beautiful beaches and nature, amazing food, authentic culture, colorful architecture — and there’s even chic Puerto Vallarta all-inclusive resorts .

6. Guanajuato City, Guanajuato

Guanajuato City is the capital of Guanajuato State .

One of the most beautiful places in Mexico, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, complete with colonial buildings, cobblestone streets and narrow winding alleyways — including the famous Callejon del Beso (Alley of the Kiss).

There are colorful plazas (or, plazuelas ) all over downtown, as well as historic buildings, colonial churches and more. In fact, don’t miss any of these 25 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico .

Unlike nearby San Miguel de Allende , with a large expat population that some say has led to a watered-down cultural feel, Guanajuato oozes Mexican culture.

Guanajuato City is more popular with national tourists, versus San Miguel which sees a higher number of international visitors. There are quite a few universities and art colleges in Guanajuato, which gives the town a youthful, lively feel.

It also has some actual festivals, including the Cervantino Festival , one of the biggest performing arts festivals in the world.

It takes place each year in Guanajuato in mid-October. Immediately following is Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), Mexico’s large country-wide festival.

Zacatecas City, Zacatecas

For a similar vibe, but more off the beaten path Mexico trip, check out Zacatecas City. It was voted the American Cultural Capital of 2021, declaring it the top cultural center on the entire Americas Continent!

7. Los Cabos, Baja California Sur

Los Cabos actually encompasses two cities, Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo .

Cabo San Lucas is the more visited of the two destinations, but the airport, Los Cabo International Airport (code: SJD) is in San Jose del Cabo — though there’s only about 45-minutes between them.

The two “Cabos” are in Baja California Sur state, on the West Coast of Mexico.

The entire Baja Peninsula has a similar climate to Southern California, and is said to have had years with 350 days of sunshine (it averages closer to 300), and some of the best scuba diving in Mexico.

🏝️ Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur

Cabo San Lucas is one of the top tourist destinations in Mexico, known for gorgeous beaches and posh hotels.

Among the best things to do in Cabo is take a boat tour to El Arco de Cabo (Cabo Arch), a natural stone arch at Land’s End, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.

Is Cabo San Lucas Safe: Cabo Travel Safety Tips

During the winter, many head to Baja California for whale watching in Mexico.

Take a boat tour just off the coast of Cabo San Lucas and you’re in one of the best places to see humpback whales in Mexico, though you can also see orcas (killer whales), gray whales, blue whales and more.

🏝️ San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur

San Jose del Cabo is also a beach town, but with a more laid back feel than Cabo San Lucas.

There’s a thriving cultural scene in San Jose with it’s popular monthly art walk, and the Historical Walking Tour with a Local . This popular tour, led by locals, benefits the San Jose community.

Planning to visit? The best way to get around San Jose del Cabo and the entire Baja Peninsula is by car. Check out the Ultimate Guide to Renting A car in San Jose del Cabo for more info on the Mexico rental car process.

8. Oaxaca City, Oaxaca

Oaxaca City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the capital of Oaxaca State. For al the info you need to visit, check out Traveling to Oaxaca City: The Ultimate Oaxaca Travel Guide .

The entire state is known as one of the top places in Mexico for culturally-minded travelers, and Oaxaca City is considered the cultural epicenter of it — though the beaches of Oaxaca are also amazing.

Besides all the amazing Oaxaca food , the city hosts some of the country’s most colorful, fun and culturally-rich festivals.

In July, there’s the Guelaguetza (pronounced geh-la-getz-uh), the largest folk festival on the Americas Continent, and Day of the Dead on November 1-2.

💦 Hierve el agua

There are so many things to do in Oaxaca itself, like visiting the beautiful Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán Cathedral and Oaxaca Botanical Garden in Centro Historico (Historic Downtown).

However, one of the best Oaxaca sites, Hierve el Agua , is located just outside the city.

Hierve el agua translates to “boiling water,” and there are natural thermal pools and hot springs here. There’s also a calcified waterfall, which isn’t actually a waterfall, though it does look like one from a distance.

You can hike down to the waterfall , then enjoy relaxing in the pools afterwards.

🗿 Monte Alban Ruins

Located about 30 minutes outside of Oaxaca City Center, Monte Alban is the most-visited of all archeological sites and ancient ruins in Oaxaca .

It is another one of the Oaxaca UNESCO World Heritage Sites, though there are other ruins in the area, including Mitla and Yagul.

💀 Day of the Dead in Oaxaca Mexico

Each November 1-2, there’s the Oaxaca Day of the Dead festival .

This holiday’s origins date back to the ancient Aztecs, though some traditions changed after the Spanish Conquest.

What remains today, is a beautiful city-wide celebration and party in tribute to deceased loved ones.

9. Puebla City, Puebla

About three hours south of Mexico City, you’ll arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ciudad de Puebla de Zaragoza (better known as Puebla City, Mexico).

Puebla City is the capital of Puebla state, a fascinating city and one of the top places to visit in Mexico.

Puebla City is known for its colorful buildings and an abundance of churches.

Urban legends say there are 365 churches and chapels in Puebla, one for each day of the year, but the city also has amazing food and the country’s largest Cinco de Mayo celebration.

One of the most underrated foodie destinations in the world, sampling authentic Puebla Mexican food and Mexico drinks is a good reason to visit this historic city!

However, one particular day of the year is more festive than many others — 5 de Mayo.

🪅 Cinco de Mayo in Puebla, Mexico

A popular weekend trip or Mexico City day trip all year-long, many visitors will head to Puebla for Cinco de Mayo, or May 5th.

A very popular holiday commemorated in the U.S. and a few other countries, in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is rarely celebrated outside of Puebla.

Historically, Puebla is the only city in the country with real ties to Cinco de Mayo. Though the holiday is often mislabeled as Mexican Independence Day , that holiday actually takes place on September 16th, not May 5th.

The holiday, rather, is in honor of May 5, 1862; the day Mexico declared victory over France at the Battle of Puebla to end the Franco-Mexican War.

As this event took place in Puebla, Mexico, the city hosts battle reenactments and elaborate festivals during their annual celebration.

💒 Cholula, Puebla

Cinco de Mayo aside, Puebla is among the best cities to visit in Mexico any day of the year.

Downtown is lined with colorful buildings, especially on the Callejón de los Sapos (Frog Alley), where you can buy some talavera , a colorful Mexican tile and pottery art from Puebla state.

Puebla state, considered by some as the safest place to visit in Mexico, also has the most pueblos magicos ( magic towns ) of any state in Mexico.

Of its 10 so-called magical towns, Cholula is one of the most unique places to visit in Mexico, located 30 just minutes from Downtown Puebla.

🗿 Great Pyramid of Cholula

Located underneath the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios Cholula church — yes, under it — you’ll find the Great Pyramid of Cholula.

It is the largest pyramid on Earth by volume, and the largest archeological site that has a pyramid in the New World.

10. Valladolid, Yucatan

Though you won’t find the pueblo magico of Valladolid on all “Popular Vacation Spots in Mexico” lists, those visiting the Yucatán Peninsula will want to see this charming town.

Colorful Valladolid, Mexico is a top destination for European visitors, with U.S. visitors just starting to catch on.

For visitors headed to the big-name beach towns of Cancun , Tulum , Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen who want to experience authentic Mexican culture , Valladolid is it.

Still relatively off the beaten path , it has remained affordable, yet is still one of the best places in Mexico to vacation.

At only two hours from both Tulum and Merida , it makes for a great day trip from either. However, staying overnight is even better as there’s so many things to do in Valladolid .

For fans of Mexican folk art, the Casa de los Venados has the country’s largest private collection.

Besides this museum, check out the Valladolid Zocalo (Town Square), where you’ll find the Iglesia de San Servacio Valladolid church, a beautiful cathedral built in 1545.

Located nearby, the historic Convento de San Bernardino de Siena is one of the oldest Franciscan missions in Mexico.

🤿 Cenote Zaci & Valladolid Cenotes

Valladolid is also the closest city to Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins , and many of the best cenotes in Mexico!

If you’re wondering What is a cenote? — They are essentially natural jungle pools with freshwater, found almost exclusively in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.

Valladolid Mexico Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Cenotes, Hotels

One of the best cenotes in Valladolid , Cenote Zaci, is only about a short walk from downtown.

This partially-open cenote is the perfect place to cool off after a few hours of exploring the town, though there are other great cenotes nearby, like Cenote Suytun and Cenote Oxman.

11. Isla Holbox Island, Quintana Roo

Before we get to any info, let’s make sure you’re pronouncing this island’s name right! Isla Holbox is pronounced hole -bosh , not hole- box! Holbox pronunciation out of the way, let’s discuss this gorgeous Mexican Caribbean island.

Holbox Island is located in the state of Quintana Roo, about three hours from Cancun. In fact, many visitors fly to Cancun International Airport (code: CUN), then make the trip from Cancun to Holbox Island .

To get to the island, you take the Holbox Ferry from the small pueblo of Chiquila Mexico.

🚴 Holbox Travel Tip: There are no cars allowed on Holbox Island! Everyone gets around by walking, biking or on a golf cart.

Located in the Caribbean Sea, Holbox is one of the Mexican Caribbean islands, along with Cozumel , Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy .

It is popular with a more laid back crowd, and especially popular from June to September when you can swim with the whale sharks in Holbox Island.

12. Copper Canyon (Barranca del Cobre)

Mexico Fun Fact : The Copper Canyon is the eighth largest canyon on Earth, second largest in North America (after the Grand Canyon), and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The best way to see the Mexico Copper Canyon is on the El Chepe Train . This famous Mexico train goes through the canyon and the deserts in Northern Mexico.

For the best views, board in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, and travel 220 miles (354 km) northeast to the city of Creel in Chihuahua, Mexico.

13. Guadalajara, Jalisco

Guadalajara is Mexico’s second largest city, after Mexico City — but you wouldn’t know it by visiting! This city has a much smaller feel compared to Mexico City , with its colonial historic center and quaint neighborhoods.

You can easily spend a couple of days visiting, as there’s so many things to do in Guadalajara.

Take a day to explore Centro Historico, including the Guadalajara Cathedral and Hospicio Cabanas. A walkable city, and all the main sights are not far from Plaza Guadalajara (Main Plaza).

Don’t miss shopping for artesanias (artisan products) and Mexico souvenirs in the huge Mercado San Juan de Dios market.

Located nearby, enjoy Guadalajara day trips to picturesque towns of Tlaquepaque , Ajijic and Tequila — three Mexico pueblos magicos , or magic towns.

🌵 Tequila, Jalisco

The beautiful agave plant fields in and around the Tequila pueblo magico (magic town) were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006.

Agave is the plant used to make the popular drink that bears the town’s name — which was first made in Tequila, Mexico centuries ago.

Nowadays, Tequila is a fun, colorful town, with cool street art and murals in the Plaza Principal (Town Square).

There’s also museums and distilleries to learn more about the history of the area and its popular creation, where you can also buy tequila directly from local, artisanal producers.

🚂 Ride the Tequila Express Train

One of the most fun ways to experience the Tequila pueblo magico (magic town) is taking the Jose Cuervo Express Tequila Train .

This day trip goes to Tequila from Guadalajara, Mexico , with unlimited drinks and educational classes about Mexico’s famous spirit — tequila !

14. Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California

Valle de Guadalupe, or just Valle (pronounced vie-yay) for short, is among the most unique places in Mexico .

Often called the Napa Valley of Mexico, this up-and-coming wine region and foodie paradise in Baja California state is just two hours from the U.S.-Mexico border.

🚙 Check out this Ultimate Guide to Driving to Mexico for more info.

Wine novices will enjoy the views from the tasting room at Santo Tomas Vineyard, while learning about winemaking through multimedia exhibits.

Among the best things to do in Valle de Guadalupe is visit AlXimia , one of the most unique and best vineyards in Valle de Guadalupe.

This is one of the most popular areas for glamping in Mexico, especially at Cuatro Cuartos .

You’re also not far from the popular Mexico beach town of Ensenada , one of the top vacation spots in Mexico for U.S. visitors, located only 30 minutes from Valle de Guadalupe.

🏝️ Ensenada, Baja California

Ensenada is one of the best beaches in Baja California Mexico — especially popular with the party crowd.

Besides the beaches, one of the best things to do in Ensenada is visit La Bufadora Geyser , located on the Punta Banda Peninsula of Baja California state.

La Bufadora , meaning “the blowhole,” is a natural rock formation, which has a hole that shoots water into the air up to 100-feet (30.5 m) above the ocean

It is one of only the largest blowholes in the world, along with Halona Blowhole in Hawaii and Kiama Blowhole in Australia.

15. Huasteca Potosina, San Luis Potosi

Located mostly in the state of San Luis Potosi, northeast of Mexico City, and bordering the Sierra Gorda UNESCO Biosphere Reserve , is the Huasteca Potosina.

This natural playground for the outdoor enthusiasts has breathtaking waterfalls, rivers, jungle pools and even some caves.

The Huasteca Potosina is still quite undeveloped, and has retained its natural beauty and charm — despite increasing tourism.

To explore the whole area, the easiest way is to go with a group tour or rent a car so you can drive everywhere. It is safe to explore either way you choose.

💧 Visit Huasteca Potosina on the 3-Day Adventure and Nature Lovers Tour in Huasteca Potosina Tour !  

You’ll want to book a hotel in Ciudad Valles, Mexico , a town right in the heart of the Huasteca. From there, you can take daily trips to the best waterfalls: Mico, Tamul, Tamasopo, El Salto, Puente de Dios.

There’s also the Sotano de las Golondrinas (Cave of Swallows), which you must see before sunrise.

These locations are all spread out, which is why it’s easiest to stay central in Ciudad Valles and head in different directions every day.

You can also make yourself a custom itinerary and find local places to stay closer to each of the Huasteca Potosina sites you want to explore.

🌳 Xilitla, San Luis Potosi

Xilitla (pronounced hee-leet-la) is the oldest town in San Luis Potosí state, dating back to the 16th Century.

This small town is surrounded by limestone cliffs and has a more verdant, lush feel than the rest of the Bajío — the lowland region of Central Mexico where Xilitla lies.

The town is not the easiest place to get to, being on the eastern slopes of the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve .

However, many make this part of Mexico its own trip by traveling to Xilitla, the Sierra Gorda and the Huasteca Potosina .

The main draw in the Xilitla pueblo magico is the Surrealist Gardens of Edward James , also called Los Pozas (The Pools).

Inspired by his love of surrealist art, eccentric Englishman Edward James began building his dream home and gardens, though he passed away before completion.

16. San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas

San Cristobal de las Casas is a beautiful colonial city and pueblo magico (magic town) in Chiapas state .

It is located in southern Mexico, next to Oaxaca state — two states known to provide a true Mexican cultural experience.

🤑 Looking for cheap places to travel Mexico? Your dollars will stretch far in San Cristobal and all Chiapas state.

Some of the best things to do in San Cristobal include exploring the local markets, admiring the colonial architecture, and immersing yourself in the surrounding nature, like El Chiflon Waterfalls .

There are some great towns nearby, like San Juan de Chamula and Zinacantan .

🗿 Palenque ruins, Chiapas

While designating the “best places to vacation in Mexico” is subjective to each traveler, those looking to experience unspoilt, beautiful Mexican nature will enjoy Palenqne, a pueblo magico in Chiapas.

Located in a rainforest high in the mountains, the top site here is the Palenque Mayan Ruins. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is about 135 miles (220km) from San Cristobal de las Casas .

Some of the more notable buildings include the Templo del Conde (Temple of the Count), El Palacio (The Palace) Templo de las Inscripciones (Temple of the Inscriptions) and Templos XII and XIII.

💦 Agua Azul, Chiapas

Agua Azul , meaning Blue Waters, is a giant series of waterfalls and swimming pools with bright blue, beautiful waters.

It is located a few hours from San Cristobal, on the way to Palenque Ruins, so it’s a popular stop to break up that long drive.

⛰️ Sumidero Canyon, Chiapas

One of the best things to do in San Cristobal de las Casas is take a boat tour of Sumidero Canyon . You’ll depart from Chiapa de Corzo, a pueblo magico (magic town) located about 30 minutes from Downtown San Cristobal.

On the thrilling boat ride, you’ll marvel at the canyon walls, which extend up to about 3,000-feet-tall (1,000 m) in some areas.

Chock full of wildlife, you may see crocodiles a few feet from the boat, and playful monkeys swinging around in the trees on shore.

17. Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Looking for the best beach resorts in Mexico ? How about one of the best beach cities in Mexico? Or best Mexico resort towns?

Located about midway between Cancun to the north and Tulum to the south, Playa del Carmen fits the bill!

Besides the miles of pristine beaches in Playa del Carmen, you’re near amazing Mayan Ruins, like Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Just outside of downtown, check out the best cenotes in Playa del Carmen, and popular Xcaret and Xel-Ha water parks in Mexico.

Spend time strolling Avenida Quinta , Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen. This popular street has it all: shopping, live music, bars, clubs, the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen, and even a Frida Kahlo Museum!

In fact, walking 5th Ave. is one of the best things to do in Playa del Carmen.

On 5th Avenue, head to the southern end of the street to enjoy Parque los Fundadores (Founders Park), home of the iconic Portal Maya statue.

Here, you’ll also see the Voladores de Papantla perform their ancient ritual while flying suspended from a 100-foot-tall (30.5 m) pole.

🏝️ Playa Maroma, Quintana Roo

Playa Maroma Beach, located near Playa del Carmen, was named one of the 10 Best Beaches in the World by the Travel Channel and Discovery Channel.

For those looking to stay in one of the best overwater bungalows in Mexico , look no further than El Dorado Palafitos on Playa Maroma.

18. Morelia, Michoacan

Morelia is the capital of Michoacan state, and the 22nd largest city in Mexico.

At four hours west of Mexico City, Morelia makes a great weekend trip from Mexico City with gorgeous-yet-affordable hotels like the stunning Hotel de la Soledad — the best hotel in Morelia, Mexico.

This is one of the most European looking cities in Mexico, with classic architecture and beautiful stone fountains scattered throughout the town.

While so many of Mexico’s colonial cities are painted in varying bright colors, Morelia’s buildings are all kept in their natural stone.

One of the most iconic buildings in the Historic Center of Morelia, is the beautiful baroque Catedral de Morelia

Head to the Plaza de Armas (Main Plaza) to see the Morelia Cathedral, beautiful both inside and out. The Plaza de Armas park makes a nice place to relax for a bit in this bustling city.

Besides the cathedral, the one-mile long Acueducto de Morelia (Morelia Aqueduct), which was built in the 1700s, is one of the oldest sites in town.

It is beautiful during the day, but head there at night to its 250 limestone arches lit up.

19. Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca

This is the most popular Oaxaca beach town of them all! For those who have seen photos of the best Puerto Escondido beaches, like Playa Carrizalillo, you already know why this Oaxaca coastline town is so popular.

One of the things that put Puerto Escondido, Mexico on the map are its surf waves. Puerto Escondido’s famous big wave surf spot is Playa Zicatela beach.

The Mexican Pipeline wave at Zicatela regularly reaches 10-feet (3 m) in height!

While Pipeline is not a wave for beginner surfers, you’ll find surf schools and smaller waves at La Punta and Playa Marinero.

In fact, surfing is one of the best things to do in Puerto Escondido — aside from just simply enjoying a Puerto Escondido beach or two. If you have the time, check out nearby Lagunas de Chacahua National Park .

One of the most popular attractions takes place on the beach at sunset; the  Oaxaca Turtle Release Program. In recent years, this has become one of the most popular Puerto Escondido tours .

A Puerto Escondido must do for many, you can opt for a more complete tour to also visit other Puerto Escondido sites, like the bioluminescent Laguna Manialtepec Lagoon .

20. Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins, Yucatan

One of the most visited of all Mexico tourist attractions is Chichen Itza Ruins, which sees an astounding two million visitors each year! It is tied with Teotihuacan Ruins near Mexico City for having the most visitors.

Chichen Itza is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and one of the Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Yucatan.

Chichen Itza is located about 2.5- to 3-hours from all the top Yucatan Mexico destinations, like Cancun, Tulum, Merida and Playa del Carmen, and less than one hour from Valladolid, Mexico .

There are many tours of Chichen Itza from all these places, or you can drive your Mexico rental car .

The largest of all Chichen Itza pyramids is El Castillo , which is the first one you see when you enter the site. The El Castillo Pyramid at Chichen Itza is also called the Temple of Kukulkan.

It has 91 steps on each side, adding up to 364, and when combined with the top platform makes 365, one step for each calendar day. It is the most famous Mexico Pyramid of all.

They say the Mayan people, experts in astronomy, architecture and mathematics, strategically positioned the buildings in a unique pattern that follows the rotation of the Earth and position of the sun.

El Caracol (The Shell) is the Astronomical Observatory, with a telescope once used to track the planet Venus. The Maya believed Venus was a war god, and observed its position in the sky to determine the best time to go into battle.

The entire site is filled with amazing facts like this, so do book a Chichen Itza guided tour when you visit.

21. Taxco, Guerrero

Taxco was one a booming silver mining town, and still known as the top Mexico silver town to this day.

These days, Taxco gets most of its income from tourism, as one of the most beautiful and best pueblos magicos in Mexico — anchored by the gorgeous Santa Prisca de Taxco church.

Many go there to walk the town’s winding cobblestone streets, and also to shop for silver. You can buy directly from artisans who still do handmade silver work to this day.

Just outside of town, there’s Cacahuamilpa Caves , the famed Taxco caves in Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park.

22. Cozumel, Quintana Roo

Accessible only by boat, Isla Cozumel Island is located about 25 minutes by ferry from Playa del Carmen . It is one of the best islands in Mexico, a popular spot for cruise ships, and one of the best places for diving in Mexico.

There are the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins in Cozumel, beautiful sandy beaches and pristine natural areas, like Punta Sur Eco Park.

However, the best things to do in Cozumel involve being in the water — as there’s a whole other world to enjoy beneath the Caribbean Sea.

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the second largest reef in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef.

Located in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, Cozumel is a top snorkel and dive destination, with comfortable water temperatures all year, amazing visibility, and healthy marine life.

23. Izamal, Yucatan: The Yellow City in Mexico

Izamal, Mexico has been nominated for the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Nicknamed “The Yellow City,” buildings in Downtown Izamal are all yellow.

The reason why is unknown, but as one of the world’s only monochromatic cities, Izamal is one of the coolest places in Mexico.

One of the best day trips from Merida, Mexico , the Yucatan pueblo magico of Izamal is a feast for the eyes.

A small city, you can explore all of downtown in a few hours, including the Convento de San Antonio de Padua Izamal church, built in the 16th Century.

24. Cancun, Quintana Roo

Cancun, arguably the most famous beach in Mexico , is indeed a place for everyone — not just those looking to party!

Now, there are plenty of Cancun nightlife spots to dance and drink the night away, but Cancun is a top Mexico travel destination because it’s a place many can enjoy.

Cancun all inclusive resorts are perfect for families; backpackers have great Cancun hostel options ; and party goers have plenty of Cancun bars and clubs.

Among the best places in Mexico for couples, romance seekers will love a luxury retreat at Nizuc Hotel and Spa .

Cancun, Mexico also makes a great home base to explore the Yucatan Peninsula , and the Yucatan Mayan Ruins .

📆 Cancun Travel Tips: The best month to visit Cancun is February , as you’ll have perfect weather and smaller crowds.

In fact, not many know there are a few places to see Mayan ruins in Cancun — like El Rey, in front of Playa Delfines, one of the best beaches in Cancun, and El Meco, in Puerto Juarez.

In the Hotel Zone, there’s the Museo Maya de Cancun (Cancun Mayan Museum) which has a Mayan temple.

Just off shore, there’s Museo Subacuatico de Arte (MUSA), better known as the Cancun Underwater Museum , with 500 submerged sculptures and healthy coral reefs.

25. Ixtapa & Zihuatanejo, Guerrero

Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo (pronounced zee-waa-ten-eh-hoe ) are located right next to one another — so a visit to either essentially gives you two Mexico vacation spots in one.

Ixtapa, located in Guerrero state on the Pacific Ocean, has some of the best beaches of Mexico.

It is decidedly a resort town, and among the best Mexico coast cities with plenty of amenities and great infrastructure for visitors, including Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (code: ZIH).

Spend some time exploring the best beaches in Ixtapa, Playa El Palmar, Playa Linda and Playa Quita, and then do an Ixtapa boat tour to Isla Ixtapa (Ixtapa Island) .

Exploring this beautiful, tranquil island is among the best things to do in Ixtapa.

Zihuatanejo is right next to Ixtapa, and while gaining in popularity, for now , it remains one of the top Mexico hidden beach towns .

Unlike the hustle and bustle you’ll find in Ixtapa, this peaceful, sleepy beach town of Zihuatanejo feels like it’s a world away.

26. Ajijic, Jalisco (Lake Chapala)

Located just 35 miles south of Guadalajara on Mexico’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Chapala, the Ajijic, Mexico offers an escape from crowds.

Part of the Chapala Riviera, Ajijic is famous for its tropical weather, lush vegetation and natural beauty.

Ajijic pueblo magico (magic town) has charming cobblestone streets lined with colorful bougainvillea, with plenty of enticing restaurants and cafes.

It is a popular place for Mexico expats, and considered among the best places to live in Mexico, and best places to retire in Mexico.

27. Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo

Isla Mujeres, Mexico is a small island paradise just a few miles from Cancun, across the Bahía de Mujeres . It is accessible only by ferry from Cancun , and is a popular day or weekend trip for both visitors and locals.

Even though it’s close to Cancun, Isla Mujeres offers a totally different experience. As island life is much more laid back, it’s the perfect spot to come and relax for a few days in a beautiful Isla Mujeres resort .

The best beach in Isla Mujeres is Playa Norte, on the northern tip of the island.

It’s a long stretch of white sand beach, lined with palm trees and beautiful turquoise waters. Playa Norte is among the best beaches Mexico has because the water is calm enough for swimming.

One of the best things to do in Isla Mujeres, if you visit from May to September , is swim with whale sharks .

During this time, the largest fish in the ocean pass by Isla Mujeres on their annual migration, and you can swim alongside these gentle giants.

28. Sayulita, Nayarit

A once sleepy fishing village, Sayulita, Mexico , in Nayarit state, has grown into a laid-back, boho beach town on many Mexico bucket lists.

Sayulita is one of the best surf spots in Mexico, and a favorite among yogis, artists, and those looking for a chill beach vacation in Mexico.

21 Best Things to Do in Sayulita + Travel Guide

This small town, one of the 135 or so pueblos magicos (magic towns) in Mexico has a tight-knit community of locals and expats. In fact, it’s one of the most popular places for expats in Mexico.

Sayulita is known as a hub for spiritual seekers and wellness enthusiasts, and you’ll find plenty of yoga studios and retreats in Sayulita.

There are also great street food stands and restaurants in Sayulita, cool shops and art galleries, jungle hikes and even horseback riding on the beach .

🏝️ Riviera Nayarit

Looking for nice places to visit in Mexico that aren’t too touristy? Then the Riviera Nayarit beaches on Mexico’s Pacific Coast will really wow you!

This 200-mile (322 km) stretch of Mexico coastline has some of the best beaches in Mexico, like Sayulita, Punta Mita , Litibu and Lo de Marcos.

🏝️ San Pancho, Nayarit

Located in the Riviera Nayarit, the pueblo of San Pancho, Mexico is often overlooked by its more popular neighbors to the south — Puerto Vallarta , Sayulita and Bucerias .

However, it’s an up and coming beach town, and one of the top places to visit in Mexico for those in the know.

For such a small town, there are many great things to do in San Pancho (AKA San Francisco).

With cobblestone streets, quiet plazas, great surf waves and amazing beaches, San Pancho is one of the best day trips from Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita .

29. Bahias de Huatulco, Oaxaca

Located about two hours west of Puerto Escondido is Bahías de Huatulco, usually just called Huatulco (pronounced wa-tool-coh).

Huatulco is the perfect spot for those wanting resort style accommodations , and relatively crowd-free, amazing beaches in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Huatulco has an astounding 36 beaches , as well as nine bays. In fact, the word bahías in its name means “bays” in Spanish.

With so much beachfront real estate and beautiful landscape, the best things to do in Huatulco involve being in or around the ocean at a Huatulco Mexico beach.

There’s also Huatulco National Park , a 29,000-acre park (116 km²) that’s partially on land and partially in the protected waters off the coast. You’ll want to can visit on a Huatuclo tour to see as much as possible.

In 2005, Huatulco achieved international Green Globe Certification, as it has more protected space than all other Mexico tourism destinations. When you visit, you’ll see why it’s one of the best Oaxaca beaches on the Oaxacan coast.

30. Mazatlan, Sinaloa

Mazatlan, known as the “Pacific Pearl,” is the best Mexican beach destination in Sinaloa state, and in general, one of the best places to visit in Mexico.

Located on the Pacific Ocean, it’s rich history, delicious Sinaloa-style seafood, and beach views make it a perfect Mexico vacation destination. 

You’ll want to visit all the best beaches in Mazatlan while you’re there.

If you’re staying at a Mazatlan resort , you’ll likely be visiting the beaches in the Golden Zone. This is where the action happens, as these beaches are tourist-friendly.

If you prefer a locals’ beach, head to Playa Olas Altas to venture off the beaten path in Mazatlan.

Regardless of which beach you choose, the waves can be powerful in Mazatlan, so use caution while enjoying the water. For calmer waters, head to the Golden Zone beaches.

Besides the beaches, another one of the best things to do in Mazatlan is go zip lining.

Located just a bit out of the city, you’ll be in a dense forest of the Sierra Madre mountains in rural Sinaloa, perfect for flying through the treetops on a zip line tour in Mazatlan .

27. Tepoztlan, Morelos

Tepoztlán, Morelos is one of the best day trips from Mexico City , at just one hour away.

This town is a hub for artists, healers and spiritual seekers, and one of the 135 or so pueblos magicos (magical towns), a prestigious title awarded by the Mexico Tourism Secretary.

For many, no visit to Tepoztlan is complete without climbing up to the Tepozteco Aztec Pyramid .

It’s an intense climb, though the views are spectacular. This mountain-top ruin is dedicated to Tepoztēcatl, the Aztec god of pulque (pronounced pull-kay), known as “the drink of the gods.”

💒 Cuernavaca, Morelos

Cuernavaca is a super easy Mexico City day trip, perfect for lovers of history, architecture, nature and art.

As many of the old haciendas have been turned into resorts, you can stay in luxury for relatively little money at Anticavilla Cuernavaca Hotel and Hacienda San Gabriel de las Palmas .

🎥 Mexico Fun Facts: Some scenes from the 2004 film Man  on  Fire , starring Denzel Washington, were filmed in Downtown Cuernavaca Mexico.

Cuernavaca is the capital of Morelos state, and often called the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its lovely, balmy weather and pleasant climate year-round.

The city has gorgeous views of the Tepozteco Mountains, and plenty to do on a day trip from CDMX.

32. Akumal, Quintana Roo

Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, between Tulum and Playa del Carmen , you’ll find the Mexico beach town of Akumal.

The closest airport to Akumal is Cancun International Airport (code: CUN), so you’ll fly there and then make your way from Cancun to Akumal .

🐢 swim with the turtles in akumal Mexico

Akumal is mostly known as one of the best Mexico resort areas — and it has some of the best all inclusive resorts in Mexico — but this town is famous for its turtles.

Among many amazing outdoor adventures in Yucatan, swimming with the turtles in Akumal is a Mexico bucket list experience.

The only way to swim with the turtles is by booking a tour , as the number of people allowed in Akumal Bay each day is regulated, for the turtle’s safety.

Akumal turtle tours follow strict guidelines to continue conservation efforts and protect this endangered animal.

Swimmers must maintain a 10-foot (3 m) distance from the sea turtles so they can easily surface to breathe. Akumal turtle season runs from May to November each year.

33. Todos Santos, Baja California Sur

Todos Santos is a quaint, hip pueblo , and one of the best small beach towns in Mexico.

In 2006, the Mexican Secretary of Tourism designated Todos Santos a pueblo magico (Mexico magic town), one of about 135 places in the country with this high honor.

One of the best beaches near Todos Santos is Punta Lobos, a quiet beach about 15-minutes from town.

Here, you’ll find local villagers who still use traditional fishing practices, and it’s quite impressive to watch the small boats go in and out throughout the day.

In Downtown Todos Santos, enjoy shopping at El Taller Todos Santos, Nomad Chic and Etnica. Stroll through the town and be on the lookout for colorful, creative Todos Santos street art.

Hotel California in Mexico

While strolling through Downtown Todos Santos , make sure to stop in at the Hotel California.

This is the hotel urban legend says inspired The Eagles’ hit song; though lead singer Don Henley denies it. Still, no visit to Todos Santos is complete without seeing the Hotel California .

34. Lake Bacalar, Quintana Roo

Bacalar Lagoon is also called the Lagoon of Seven Colors and the Maldives of Mexico — a reference to the crystal clear waters of the Maldives Islands.

Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, Bacalar is about 4.5 hours from Cancun, and 30 minutes from the Belize-Mexico border.

Bacalar Mexico: Ultimate Bacalar Lagoon Travel Guide

Though technically a pueblo (small town), there are quite a few things to do in Bacalar, including a blissful swim in beautiful Laguna Bacalar (Bacalar Lake).

There’s also a historic fort in Downtown Bacalar, with cannons once used to fend off pirates 🏴‍☠️

Lake Bacalar is the second largest freshwater lake in Mexico — at 26-miles-long (42 km). The largest is Lake Chapala, near Ajijic pueblo magico .

The best way to see it all is on a Bacalar tour of the lagoon to check out the Canal de los Piratas (Pirate’s Channel), Cenote la Bruja (Witch’s Cenote) and Isla de los Pajaros (Bird Island).

35. La Paz, Baja California Sur

The town of La Paz in Baja California Sur state has some of the best swimming beaches in Mexico, making it the perfect spot to vacation for everyone from families to tranquility-seekers.

The best beaches in La Paz, Mexico include Playa El Coromuel , Playa El Tesoro and Playa Tecolote .

However, the undeniable star of the La Paz Mexico beach scene is the gorgeous Playa Balandra . It is known as the best beach in Mexico, and what some consider one of the best beaches in the world!

In case you’re wondering Is La Paz worth visiting? — Playa Balandra alone is worth the trip.

🤿 Cabo Pulmo National Park in Mexico

Cabo Pulmo is located in the Sea of Cortez, famously called “the aquarium of the world” by diver and 1970s TV personality, Jacques Cousteau.

It is located about 90-minutes north of San José del Cabo (and the Los Cabos Airport), in a protected Mexico national park.

During the winter months, this is the best place to see humpback whales in Mexico as they migrate past from about late-November to early-April.

If you’re visiting in the summer, Cabo Pulmo is one of the best places to snorkel in Mexico, with many taking a Cabo Pulmo snorkeling tour .

💦 Isla Espiritu Santo Island

When visiting La Paz, Mexico , don’t miss out on taking a boat tour through the Sea of Cortez. This narrow gulf lies between mainland Mexico and the Baja Peninsula, and is a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

On a Sea of Cortez boat tour , you’ll see an abundance of wildlife — like dolphins, whales and sea lions. When you jump in the water, juvenile sea lions may even swim up right beside you.

You’ll also see Isla Espiritu Santo and Isla Los Islotes , two of the best places to visit in Baja California.

Mexico Travel Guide & Mexico FAQ

Is Mexico safe for travelers?

For the vast majority of travelers, Mexico is safe. That’s not to say “bad” things don’t happen in Mexico; they do — so you must remain vigilant at all times.

As safety is never guaranteed anywhere on Earth, you must prioritize your safety while traveling to Mexico by staying aware of yourself and your belongings at all times.

In reality, Mexico travel safety is a big, complex topic. Head to Is Mexico Safe? 25 Tips to Stay Safe in Mexico for an in-depth explanation on Mexico safety.

🤔 Should I get Mexico travel insurance?

While you don’t legally have to have travel insurance for Mexico , you’ll definitely want to have it.

During these current and strange times, travel insurance for Mexico will give you an added level of security and peace of mind so you can just kick back and enjoy your Mexico vacation 😎

Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while traveling.

If Mexico travel safety is on your mind, get your FREE quote below from World Nomads and Safety Wing, two of the biggest names in travel insurance.

• Safety Wing : Perfect for general travel coverage, and digital nomads who travel for extended periods of time .
• World Nomads : Perfect for those who want to do adventurous activities while traveling.

What do I include on my Mexico packing list?

If you’re wondering, What’s the best month to visit Mexico? , that will absolutely depend on where you’re headed.

Mexico is a very big country (the 14th largest country on Earth, in fact) with varied climates in different parts of the country.

While Mexico beaches have warm temperatures year-round, cities are much cooler.

Make sure to double check the weather where you’re headed — as there’s more temperature fluctuations than most realize when they travel Mexico.

Cute Outfits for Mexico Vacation: What to Wear in Mexico

As a general rule, Mexicans tend to dress on the conservative side. Even in hotter places and pueblos (small towns), jeans and long sleeves are the norm.

While on beaches it’s normal to see shorts and sandals, in cities you’ll definitely stand out.

🧳 FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico

Head to the Ultimate Packing List for Mexico to download your FREE printable packing list for Mexico.

This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers Mexico beach packing and Mexico city packing, so you know want to bring, and what not to bring to Mexico!

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Visit in Mexico Right Now

While many think Mexico is just one giant beach, there are amazing and historic vacation cities in Mexico as well.

Now, with 5,800-miles of coastline, if you’re looking for a beachfront vacation place in Mexico, you have no shortage of those either. Hopefully, this list well represents both.

To classify the “Best Places in Mexico to Visit” or “Best Part of Mexico to Visit” is impossible, as they are subject to each individual traveler.

However, rest assured all destinations featured above are among the safest places to vacation in Mexico. In short, you can’t go wrong with any of them!

✈️ So what are you waiting for? Book your Mexico flight now , and start making your Mexican travel dream come true!

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

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16 Best Beaches in Mexico—Whether You Want a Quiet Surf Escape or Thrumming Nightlife

By Caitlin Morton

Mexico is one of those well-rounded countries that offer a little bit of everything: food, culture, gorgeous landscapes, and some of the best hotels and resorts in the entire world. But at the end of the day, Mexico will always be known as a beach destination—and for good reason. The nation boasts nearly 5,800 miles of coastline, stretching along the warm Gulf of Mexico to the east and the wild, surfer-friendly Pacific Ocean to the west.

Perhaps the best aspect of Mexico’s beaches is their diversity. Regardless of the type of vacation you seek—a surfing adventure, a cultural immersion, or an off-grid retreat—you’ll find a stretch of sand to fit your needs. Case in point: We rounded up 16 spots that stand out for their unique activities, luxurious accommodations, and overall beauty, and there truly is something here for every traveler.

From popular vacation spots to hidden island gems, here are the best beaches in Mexico. 

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Punta Mita, Nayarit

Punta Mita is a lush, private peninsula on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, about 10 miles north of Puerto Vallarta. This 1,500-acre enclave receives consistently warm and sunny weather, and its crystalline waters lend themselves perfectly to swimming and surfing. But the best asset of Punta Mita is its collection of luxury hotels and resorts: Take your pick from the newly opened Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Resorts Collection , or opt for other favorites like the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita ,  The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort , and  W Punta de Mita .  

Playa Balandra, La Paz

About 40 minutes outside of La Paz , Playa Balandra is arguably the most picturesque beach in all of Baja California. The idyllic spot lies on the eastern coast of the peninsula, overlooking a peaceful bay that spills out into the Caribbean-esque Sea of Cortez. You won’t find many better places in the area to go snorkeling and swimming—and the views of the desert meeting the ocean are truly second to none. 

Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur

Cabo San Lucas is known as a popular tourist destination—hello, spring breakers !—but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The resort city happens to have some of the best beaches in Mexico, including the remote Playas La Palmas (rent a 4x4 to get there) and Playa Acapulquito, a veritable surfer’s paradise . And then there are the resorts. You have tons of options here, but you won’t do much better than Chileno Bay Resort , featured on our 2018 Hot List . Aside from its beautiful and breezy villas, its location on one of Cabo’s most swim-friendly beaches can’t be topped.

Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo

While often thought of as a side trip from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a destination in its own right. The main beach of Playa Norte is made of crushed coral, has warm shallow waters, and is much quieter than the beaches across the bay. Scuba enthusiasts should take note: The island is home to the largest concentration of whale sharks on the planet.

Hannah Towey

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Steph Koyfman

Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo

We dubbed Isla Holbox, just north of Cancun, “ One of Mexico’s Last Secret Beach Towns ” back in 2017; and while it might not be such a secret anymore, it still dazzles with its stretch of beaches, aqua-blue water, and nature preserve. Spend your days browsing the markets and textile shops in town, and don’t you dare forget to visit the island’s famous over-water hammocks. Punta Caliza , a relative newcomer to the scene, is one of our favorite places to stay.

Playa del Amor, Nayarit

It looks like something out of a fantasy movie, but Playa del Amor (more commonly referred to as “Hidden Beach’) is a very real, albeit hard-to-reach, attraction. Part of the Marietas Islands (about a 1-hour boat ride west of Puerto Vallarta), the beach is engulfed by a cave with a gaping hole in the roof—a hole rumored to be the result of bombs from military testing by the Mexican government during the early 1900s. Sinister origin aside, the hole now serves as a unique skylight that opens the beach up for sunbathing and photo ops, but the extremely strong currents here make swimming a risky endeavor.

Zihuatanejo, Guerrero

The Pacific Coast surf town of Zihuatanejo (often shortened to “Zihua”) has natural beauty that is equal parts alluring and hard to reach (hence the lack of crowds). We keep going back for the cliffs and ravines blanketed by mangroves, scooped-out bays, and a backdrop of the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains. Zihua has four beaches that are reachable from the city center, the best—and most remote—being Playa Las Gatas. The white sand and cyan lagoon are perfect for lounging with a beer, snorkeling, and maybe spotting a humpback whale on the horizon.

Costalegre, Jalisco

The Costalegre spans Mexico’s Pacific Coast into the states of Jalisco and Colima, where luxury hotels stand adjacent to wild landscapes. One such stunning example is Cuixmala : Aside from its oceanfront infinity pool, private beach, and extremely luxurious suites, the estate has a 30,000-acre wildlife preserve literally in its backyard. How’s that for indulgence?

Playa Los Cerritos, Baja California Sur

Five-mile-long Playa Los Cerritos is one of the safest swimming spots near funky Todos Santos , an hour north of Cabo on the Pacific. It’s a popular spot for surfing (and lessons are easy to find), shell collecting, and family outings. It is also one of the most developed beaches in the area: Aside from taking advantage of an on-site bar and restaurant, visitors can reach the hippie-chic boutique hotel from Liz Lambert, Hotel San Cristóbal , via a short drive to Playa Punta Lobos.

Playa Zicatela, Oaxaca

Playa Zicatela is one of the most famous surfing spots in all of Mexico, located on the Pacific coast of Oaxaca . The breaks here have drawn comparisons to Hawaii’s famed Pipeline, and you can often find major surfing competitions taking place on the beach. Even if you aren’t big on water sports, the surrounding town of  Puerto Escondido will draw you in with its funky hotels, public artwork, and shoes-optional restaurants.

Playa Paraiso, Tulum

About an hour south of Cancun, Tulum has emerged as one of Mexico’s most beloved beach destinations, thanks to an abundance of white sand, warm turquoise water, and jungle-lined roads and ruins. Perhaps the best slice of paradise is the appropriately named Playa Paraiso, where folks flock for the aforementioned scenery as well as an abundance of activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving. There are even changing rooms and a beach club serving up cold drinks, so go ahead and plan on staying all day.

Isla Espíritu Santo, Baja California Sur

Located in the beautiful Sea of Cortez, Isla Espíritu Santo is a short boat trip away from La Paz on the lower half of the Baja California Peninsula . The uninhabited island is full of red rocks, pristine white beaches, and many species of exotic wildlife . Swimming with a colony of sea lions is the highlight of many an expedition, followed by a relaxing picnic on the shoreline.

Troncones, Guerrero

Formerly a quiet fishing village, 46 miles north of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport, Troncones has become an under-the-radar escape for adventurous travelers. The three-mile-long beach draws surfers from all over the world, while eco-tourists love horseback riding on the sand and hiking in the nearby Sierra Madre mountains. Best of all, with a population hovering around 500-600 permanent residents, Troncones always maintains a wonderful sense of isolation.

Playa Mujeres, Cancun

Cancun may be one of Mexico’s more tourist-heavy beach destinations, but it’s hard to ignore the city’s postcard-perfect stretches of white sand and turquoise water—even if you do have to dodge some crowds during your visit. If you go a little off the beaten path, you may even get some sandy real estate all to yourself. We recommend heading towards Playa Mujeres (not to be confused with Isla Mujeres, which is about seven miles off the coast of Cancun), an idyllic resort community wedged between the Caribbean and a wildlife preserve, to enjoy some peace and quiet (bonus serenity points if you can book a stay at the adults-only  Excellence Playa Mujeres ).

Yelapa, Jalisco

Yelapa is only accessible via a 30-minute boat ride from Puerto Vallarta. Therein lies the appeal of this off-the-radar paradise , where the beach is long and the tourists are sparse. Step directly off the boat onto the crescent-shaped sand, grab some fish tacos and beer at the thatched-roof bar Angelina’s Gardens Beach Club, and spend the rest of the day swaying in one of the many hammocks strung up beneath the palms.

Puerto Ángel, Oaxaca

The town of Puerto Ángel sits on a picturesque horseshoe-shaped bay, bookended by craggy rocks and surrounded by wooded hills. The waters here are calm and bright blue, although the town mostly serves as a small fishing port. The best beach scene is found at Playa La Boquilla, about three miles east of the bay, where the shallow waters make for excellent snorkeling .

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• World's Best

The 25 Best Resort Hotels in Mexico in 2022

The best resorts in Mexico, according to T+L readers, showcase the country's spectacular beaches, food, and culture.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite resorts in Mexico .

There are myriad reasons to love Mexico, from ample sunshine and secluded beaches to warm hospitality and flavor-packed food. The country — T+L's 2022 Destination of the Year — has been one of the few international destinations to permit nonessential air travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, and hotels kept guests' health and safety top of mind as they implemented wide-ranging protocols, including free on-site predeparture testing for guests. But as new properties continue to open across the country at a rapid clip, it takes more than nailing the basics to get onto this prestigious list of the 25 best resorts in Mexico, as voted by T+L readers.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels (including safari lodges) were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city hotel, resort, or safari lodge based on their locations and amenities.

Travelers couldn't resist the barefoot luxury of Mexico's coastal resorts, which comprise the entirety of this year's list. Sevenhonorees can be found in the state of Quintana Roo, home to the stunning stretch of the Caribbean seaboard known as the Riviera Maya. On the Pacific Coast, one of the newest resorts to be recognized is No. 2 One&Only Mandarina , which opened near Puerto Vallarta in 2020. "Experiences to create lifelong memories," wrote one reader about the resort's programming, which takes full advantage of both the surrounding rain forest and adjacent beach with activities like zip-lining, rappelling, surfing, and fishing. "Loved every minute of this beautiful tropical paradise," summarized another fan.

Also making this year's list are several perennial favorites clustered near Playa del Carmen, including Rosewood Mayakoba (No. 6) and Hotel Esencia (No. 16), both of which wowed readers with exceptional hospitality. "One of our favorite places in the world, primarily because of the staff," wrote one reader who stayed at the secluded 129-suite Rosewood. "They are warm and welcoming and make you feel like family while providing a high level of refined service." Another voter praised the ultra-private Hotel Esencia, which "set the absolute highest bar." No wonder it counts Aerin Lauder and Lupita Nyong'o among its clientele.

Nine more of this year's chosen resorts are in the whale-watching hub of Baja California Sur — specifically, in Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. For many voters, proximity to both the cities and the beach was a huge plus. "We love the closeness to San José," wrote one guest of No. 4 Viceroy Los Cabos, who also noticed "a great mix of families and couples at the resort." Another property that makes the most of its location, according to voters, is No. 9 the Cape: "As we walked into the open-air lobby, we were instantly hit with the breathtaking views of Medano Beach, Lands End, and the Arch. The landscaping, design of furniture, and architecture combine to make a breathtaking environment."

But as impressive as all of these hotels were, it was another in Los Cabos that readers chose as the best resort in Mexico. Below, find out which longtime favorite stole the show.

1. Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, Cabo San Lucas

Tucked into a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this upscale resort impressed T+L readers from the moment they drove through the torch-lit tunnel toward the open-air lobby. The 113 rooms and suites take full advantage of their waterfront positions with private terraces and plunge pools from which guests can enjoy what one reader called "the best sunrise and sunset views." (For the latter, another strategy is booking a well-timed dinner reservation at the elegant cliffside restaurant, El Farallón.) The "incredible staff" also helps the resort stand out, according to a second reader. On site, employees lend their skills and knowledge to experiences — a Baja-inspired herbal body treatment at the spa and a curated tasting of lesser-known regional spirits like raicilla or sotol in the newly refreshed Agave Study, to name a few. Guests who want to get off-property have their dedicated personal concierge to coordinate experiences like swimming with whale sharks in La Paz or taking a snorkeling tour aboard the Dos Mares yacht.

Score: 97.45

Book on Tripadvisor

2. One&Only Mandarina, Riviera Nayarit

One of the newest hotels in One&Only's portfolio, this resort was designed so that its 105 villas and tree-house accommodations blend seamlessly into the tropical environment. It also boasts a modern-Mexican restaurant from acclaimed chef Enrique Olvera.

Score: 95.64

3. Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection, Cabo San Lucas

T+L readers appreciated the attentive hospitality of this beachside escape. "Even during COVID restrictions, the staff and service were still excellent," wrote one voter.

Score: 95.50

4. Viceroy Los Cabos, San José del Cabo

"We love the closeness to San José, and there is a great mix of families and couples at the resort," observed one T+L reader who has visited this sleek hotel on multiple occasions. "We have had wonderful experiences with the staff there and always look forward to our next trip."

Score: 95.46

5. Cala de Mar Resort & Spa, Ixtapa

One reader found the 6,000-square-foot wellness facilities at this 59-suite resort "comparable to paradise." Aztec-inspired treatments incorporate endemic herbs, fruits, and flowers, including lemony toronjil .

Score: 95.45

6. Rosewood Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen

Set amid serene lagoons and lush mangrove forests, this resort is "everything that you dream of when you think of experiencing a faraway tropical destination without spending hours on a plane," according to one enthusiastic voter, who also commented that "everything about Rosewood screams romance even with kids in tow."

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 95.38

7. Viceroy Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen

Forty-one private villas put guests within steps of the Riviera Maya's white-sand beaches. "Perfect place to relax and reconnect," praised one WBA voter, who noted that the staff delivered "personalized service and amazing attention to details with zero pretentiousness."

Score: 95.25

8. Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan, Mazatlán

The recent renovations at this resort on Mazatlán's Zona Dorada coastline haven't gone unnoticed by T+L readers. "The results are a huge improvement," wrote one voter, who also commented on how family-friendly the property is.

Score: 95.08

9. The Cape, a Thompson Hotel, Cabo San Lucas

So often, it's the staff that truly drives home a sense of belonging at a hotel — and that was the attribute that resonated most for readers who stayed at this resort. "Everyone was warm, friendly, and willing to go out of their way to help you," wrote one voter. "Throughout our stay, our personal concierge Rey made sure we were taken care of, from welcoming us when we arrived to consistently making sure we had what we needed." Another reader also appreciated that "it has a luxury feel without the luxury price point."

Score: 95.02

10. Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas

Anticipatory service goes a long way with T+L readers. "From sitting down to dinner at a restaurant to ordering room service, the staff were always one step ahead of me, anticipating my needs," wrote a T+L reader.

Score: 94.84

11. Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen

"Families, don't walk — run to the Fairmont Mayakoba if you are looking for a special vacation," advises one reader who stayed at this newly refurbished property. "The facilities are amazing, as are the pools, restaurants, golf, and activities. We cannot wait to return!"

Score: 94.82

12. Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta

Between an aqua park, lazy river, three-story shopping complex, and a staggering 40+ dining venues, there's no shortage of diversions at this sprawling resort. "We have been to this location about five times over the years and it always exceeds our high expectations," shared one voter.

Score: 94.74

More information: vidanta.com

13. St. Regis Punta Mita Resort, Punta Mita

"So attentive, genuine, and warm," wrote one reader of the service at this 22-acre resort. Another noted the "access to great pools and beaches."

Score: 94.71

14. Mahekal Beach Resort, Playa del Carmen

"A nice little oasis" in the Riviera Maya, said one reader of this all-inclusive, adding that "the hut where you can paint pottery is particularly special."

Score: 94.05

15. Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, San José del Cabo

One of five Reserve properties in the Ritz-Carlton portfolio, the 115-room Zadún is among the most elevated stays in Los Cabos, thanks to the intuitive service provided by its tosoanis (butlers). "A wonderful experience," summarized one reader.

Score: 93.97

16. Hotel Esencia, Quintana Roo

Its past life as the holiday escape of an Italian duchess is just one reason travelers find this lush, 45-suite and three-villa hideaway near Tulum so intriguing. A superlative new sushi-centric restaurant, Taiyo, is another. "What an exceptional experience," gushed one reader. "I compare all hotel stays to Hotel Esencia."

Score: 93.89

17. Hotel Xcaret Mexico, Playa del Carmen

A vegetarian restaurant and "the most comfortable beds ever" might not be the first things travelers associate with an all-inclusive resort in Mexico, but according to two WBA voters, those were among this property's most notable features.

Score: 93.84

18. Montage Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas

"Beautiful rooms, perfect service, breathtaking pools and beach, and top-notch dining make this resort one to beat," wrote one T+L reader. Another voiced approval of the fitness offerings, noting that "they even have two Pilates reformers and excellent instructors."

Score: 93.76

19. Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, Punta Mita

Many readers sought out resorts where they could truly unplug and relax, which is precisely what this 52-acre property delivered. "Our pattern of waking up, enjoying breakfast, then the infinity pool to the adult pool to the lazy river to the beach was the most enjoyable, stress-reducing experience I've had in 10 years," shared a voter.

Score: 93.75

20. Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection, Cabo San Lucas

Quite a bit of the Cabo coastline is deemed unswimmable, which makes this property's location in a protected cove so desirable. "You can snorkel right off the adjacent beach," noted one voter.

Score: 93.74

21. Vidanta Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen

"We never tire of this resort, especially with Jungala and Cirque du Soleil," wrote one repeat guest. A different voter, who had to navigate a family emergency while on property, praised the staff for how helpful they were in arranging travel home.

Score: 93.52

22. One&Only Palmilla, San José del Cabo

The four on-site restaurants at this romantic 174-room resort are "the best in town," according to one culinary-minded voter. "You must take your time and visit each one of them."

Score: 93.43

23. Nizuc Resort & Spa, Cancún

The clean, modern design of this resort pops against the surrounding white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. "This is a Cancun dream destination, especially with families," praised one voter. "I loved having our own pool in our room, and the food and restaurants were exceptional."

Score: 93.42

24. Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, Mazatlán

Pampering is a major reason guests escape to this Sinaloan resort on the Pacific. "Gorgeous spa with lots of treatment options," said a voter. "Stayed in a villa that was fabulous. Spoiled us for sure!"

Score: 93.33

25. Le Blanc Spa Resort, Cancún

Activities at this adults-only all-inclusive range from paddle yoga in one of the hotel pools to a sunset sail aboard a luxury yacht. "I would give LeBlanc 10 stars if I could," wrote a reader.

Score: 93.16

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