Discover the Best Places to Travel in Mexico

Ever dreamed of walking through lively streets filled with music and laughter? Or maybe relaxing on sunny beaches with a cool drink in hand? Mexico is waiting for you! With its rich culture, history, and natural beauty, there's something for everyone. Let's explore some of the best places in this amazing country!

Mexico City: The Heart of the Nation

Mexico City is a lively place where old and new meet. With historic landmarks, great museums, green parks, and exciting nightlife, it's a place you shouldn't miss.

Explore Historic Sites

Visit the Zócalo, one of the world's biggest city squares. It's surrounded by the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and colonial buildings. The Templo Mayor Museum, right in the city center, lets you learn about the Aztec civilization. Walk through Chapultepec Park, one of the largest city parks. There you'll find Chapultepec Castle, home to the National History Museum.

Experience Art and Culture

Art fans will love it here. At the Frida Kahlo Museum, also called the Blue House, you can see into the life of this famous artist. Nearby, the Diego Rivera Mural Museum shows works by her husband. Don't miss the Palacio de Bellas Artes, an art nouveau and deco building with amazing murals and performances. For modern art, check out Museo Tamayo and Museo Jumex.

Enjoy Delicious Food

Mexico City is a food lover's paradise. From street tacos to fancy restaurants, the flavors are amazing. Try dishes like chilaquiles, mole, and tamales. Visit local markets like La Merced or Mercado de San Juan for fresh produce, spices, and more. Food tours and cooking classes are fun ways to learn more about the food.

Shop and Explore Markets

Markets in the city are full of sights and sounds. Visit Coyoacán Market for handicrafts, or La Ciudadela for traditional arts and crafts. For high-end shopping, go to the Polanco district with its luxury stores. If you love books, check out Calle Donceles, filled with used bookshops.

Discover Green Spaces

Despite its size, Mexico City has many green spaces. Chapultepec Park has museums, lakes, a zoo, and places for picnics and walks. The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco offer colorful boat rides through historic canals from the city's ancient times.

Cancún and the Riviera Maya: Beach Getaway

Cancún is famous for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters. It's great for both relaxing and adventure.

Relax on Beautiful Beaches

With miles of sandy beaches, you can relax anywhere. Playa Delfines and Playa Tortugas are popular with locals and visitors. The blue waters and soft sands make for a great beach day. Beach clubs on Playa Mamitas offer comfort right by the sea.

Underwater Fun

The Great Maya Reef is great for snorkeling and diving. Swim with colorful fish and see lively coral reefs. For something different, visit the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA), where underwater sculptures create a mysterious and beautiful scene. For adventure, try cenote diving in freshwater sinkholes unique to the Yucatán Peninsula.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Have fun with Cancún's famous nightlife. The Hotel Zone is full of clubs, bars, and live music after dark. Places like Coco Bongo and The City have shows and dancing until morning.

Visit Ancient Ruins

Take a short trip from Cancún to see the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum and Chichén Itzá. These sites show Mexico's rich history. The El Castillo pyramid in Chichén Itzá is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Nearby Cobá has the tallest pyramid in the area, and you can still climb it.

Oaxaca: A Cultural Treasure

In the mountains, Oaxaca is known for its rich indigenous culture, colonial buildings, and tasty food.

Wander Through Charming Streets

The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with beautiful buildings and churches like the Templo de Santo Domingo. The cobblestone streets and lively markets make every walk enjoyable. At the Zócalo, locals gather among street vendors and musicians.

Taste Unique Flavors

Oaxaca is famous for its mole sauces and mezcal. Join a cooking class or take a mezcal tasting tour to fully enjoy them. Don't miss tlayudas, large crispy tortillas with beans, cheese, and more. If you're feeling adventurous, try chapulines (seasoned grasshoppers)! The 20 de Noviembre Market is a food lover's paradise.

Explore Nearby Ruins

Just outside the city, visit Monte Albán, an ancient Zapotec city on a flattened mountain. The site has impressive ruins and great views of the valley. Mitla, another important site, is known for its intricate stone mosaics.

Discover Artisan Villages

Nearby villages are known for crafts. San Bartolo Coyotepec makes black pottery, Teotitlán del Valle is famous for handwoven textiles, and Arrazola is known for colorful alebrijes (wooden carvings of fantastical creatures).

Experience Traditions

Visit during the Day of the Dead festivities to see colorful parades and altars honoring loved ones. The celebrations in Oaxaca are some of the most elaborate in the country. The Guelaguetza Festival in July features traditional dances, music, and costumes from the region's indigenous communities.

Isla Holbox: A Quiet Island

If you're looking for peace, Isla Holbox is a car-free island with pristine beaches and lots of wildlife.

Relax and Enjoy

With shallow waters and soft sands, it's the perfect place to unwind. Hammocks over the water invite you to take it easy. Without cars, the island feels peaceful, and people get around on golf carts and bicycles.

Wildlife Encounters

From June to September, swim with whale sharks, the gentle giants of the sea. Birdwatchers can see flamingos, pelicans, and other species in the Yum Balam Reserve. Kayaking through mangroves offers close experiences with nature.

Natural Wonders

At night, see the bioluminescent waters light up as you move. This natural wonder is best seen on dark nights and adds magic to your visit.

Local Charm

The island's sandy streets are lined with colorful murals, and the seafood is fresh. Try the lobster pizza, a local favorite. The laid-back atmosphere makes it easy to meet locals and fellow travelers.

Puerto Vallarta: Coastal Charm

On the Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta combines stunning beaches with a charming old-town feel.

Walk Along the Malecón

This seaside promenade is lined with sculptures, shops, and cafes. It's perfect for an evening stroll as the sun sets over the water. Street performers and artists add to the lively atmosphere. Visit the Los Arcos Amphitheater for free shows.

Adventure Options

For adventure lovers, there's plenty to do. Go zip-lining through the jungle, take a boat tour to the Marietas Islands, or try surfing in nearby Sayulita. Whale watching is popular from December to March when humpback whales can be seen.

Relax on Lovely Beaches

Playa Los Muertos is the most popular beach, close to town. For a quieter spot, take a water taxi to Yelapa or Las Caletas, only accessible by boat. These hidden gems offer peaceful settings surrounded by lush greenery.

Enjoy the Art Scene

Puerto Vallarta is known for art. Explore galleries showing local artists or join an art walk tour. The mix of traditional and modern art makes it a creative hub. Don't miss the Naval Museum to learn about the area's maritime history.

Savor the Food

From fresh seafood to gourmet dining, there's lots to enjoy. Try a food tour to sample local specialties like ceviche, pescado zarandeado (grilled fish), and delicious street tacos.

San Miguel de Allende: Colonial Beauty

This picturesque city is famous for its well-preserved colonial buildings and artistic vibe.

See Amazing Architecture

Admire the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, a neo-Gothic church that stands over the main plaza. The colorful buildings and cobblestone streets make every walk delightful. The city's layout invites exploration and discovery. Visit the El Jardín, the central square where locals gather among manicured gardens.

Art and Inspiration

The city attracts artists from around the world. Visit the Fábrica La Aurora, a former factory now filled with art and design studios. Workshops and galleries let you see artists at work. The Instituto Allende offers classes in arts and language.

Cultural Events

San Miguel de Allende hosts many festivals throughout the year, like the Sanmiguelada, a running of the bulls event, and the Chamber Music Festival, featuring classical music performances.

Enjoy Culinary Treats

Enjoy rooftop dining with panoramic views. The local food blends traditional Mexican flavors with international influences. Don't forget to try enchiladas mineras (miner’s enchiladas) and tortas at local eateries. Cafes and restaurants often have live music.

Hot Springs and Nearby Sites

Relax in nearby hot springs like La Gruta or Escondido Place for a day of relaxation. Explore the Santuario de Atotonilco, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its amazing murals, just a short drive away.

Guanajuato: A Colorful Labyrinth

Guanajuato charms visitors with its winding alleyways, underground streets, and vibrant houses.

Explore Underground Tunnels

The city's unique network of tunnels, once built to prevent flooding, now serves as roads. Driving through these tunnels is an adventure!

Cultural Celebrations

Home to the International Cervantino Festival, Guanajuato is a cultural hub celebrating music, theater, and dance. Performers and visitors from around the world gather, turning the city into a stage.

Historical Sites

Visit the Alhóndiga de Granaditas, a granary turned museum, important in Mexico's fight for independence. Climb to the Monumento al Pípila for panoramic views of the city. The University of Guanajuato's staircase is a popular photo spot.

Romantic Legends

Experience the charm of the Callejón del Beso (Alley of the Kiss), a narrow alley with a romantic legend. Couples visit for a good luck kiss on the third step.

Mummy Museum

Guanajuato is known for its mummies, naturally preserved bodies displayed in the Mummy Museum. It's a unique and slightly eerie attraction that offers insight into local history.

Tulum: History by the Sea

Tulum offers the rare mix of stunning beaches and ancient Mayan ruins perched on cliffs.

Ancient Clifftop Ruins

Explore the Tulum ruins, one of the last cities built by the Maya. The views of the Caribbean Sea are breathtaking. The site is small, so you can visit in a few hours. Early morning visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Eco-Friendly Vibes

Stay in beachfront cabanas and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Yoga retreats and wellness centers are common. Tulum is a destination for those seeking relaxation and renewal. Boutique hotels and eco-resorts offer sustainable and stylish places to stay.

Enjoy Nature

Discover the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site full of wildlife and natural beauty. Guided tours offer insights into the ecosystem. Swim in nearby cenotes, like Gran Cenote and Dos Ojos, for refreshing dips in clear waters.

Taste the Food Scene

Tulum's dining scene offers everything from street-side taco stands to upscale restaurants featuring local and organic ingredients. Try dishes like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) and fresh seafood.

Mérida: The White City

Mérida is the cultural capital of the Yucatán Peninsula, known for its colonial history and vibrant traditions.

Historical Exploration

Walk along Paseo de Montejo, inspired by the Champs-Élysées, lined with grand mansions from when henequen was booming. The Casa de Montejo offers a glimpse into the city's rich past. Visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya to learn about Mayan history and culture.

Cultural Activities

Enjoy traditional music and dance performances in the plazas. The city hosts events almost every night, making it lively and fun. On Sundays, the city center becomes a family-friendly festival with street closures, markets, and entertainment.

Delicious Food

Mérida is famous for Yucatecan cuisine, different from other Mexican food. Try dishes like cochinita pibil, sopa de lima (lime soup), and papadzules (tortillas with hard-boiled eggs and pumpkin seed sauce). Food markets like Mercado Lucas de Gálvez are great places to taste local flavors.

Gateway to Mayan Sites

Mérida is a great base for visiting nearby Mayan ruins like Uxmal, known for its intricate architecture, and the smaller Dzibilchaltún, which features the Temple of the Seven Dolls. The Mayapán ruins are also nearby for a day trip.

Visit Celestún Reserve

Take a day trip to Celestún to see flocks of flamingos and other wildlife. Boat tours go through mangroves and estuaries, offering chances for birdwatching and enjoying untouched beaches.

Cabo San Lucas: Sun and Fun

At the southern tip of Baja California, Cabo San Lucas is famous for its beaches, water activities, and nightlife.

Iconic Landmarks

Visit El Arco, a natural rock formation at Land's End, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. It's a great spot for photos and boat tours. The nearby Lover's Beach and Divorce Beach offer different experiences on opposite sides.

Outdoor Activities

From deep-sea fishing to snorkeling and whale watching, there's lots to enjoy at sea. Between December and April, humpback whales make their yearly migration, offering amazing views. Adventure seekers can try ATV tours, parasailing, or even camel rides along the beach.

Luxury and Relaxation

Cabo is known for its luxury resorts and spas. Treat yourself to pampering or relax by infinity pools overlooking the ocean. Golf fans can enjoy top courses designed by famous golfers.

Nightlife and Dining

Cabo offers lively nightlife with clubs, bars, and restaurants for all tastes. Enjoy fresh seafood and international cuisine, or dance the night away at popular spots like Cabo Wabo Cantina and Mandala.

Puebla: History and Flavor

Puebla, known for its colonial architecture and culinary heritage, is rich in history.

Architectural Wonders

The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with splendid buildings adorned with talavera tiles. Visit the Puebla Cathedral and the ornate Rosary Chapel, a stunning example of baroque art.

Culinary Capital

Puebla is famous for dishes like mole poblano, a rich sauce made with chocolate and spices, served over turkey or chicken. Try chiles en nogada, a seasonal dish representing the Mexican flag with green peppers, white walnut sauce, and red pomegranate seeds.

Explore Cholula

Just outside Puebla, the town of Cholula has the world's largest pyramid by volume, the Great Pyramid of Cholula, topped with the Nuestra Señora de los Remedios church. The site offers views of the Popocatépetl volcano.

Local Crafts

Shop for talavera pottery, a craft perfected over centuries. Visit workshops to see artisans at work and buy unique souvenirs.

Get Ready to Explore Mexico!

Mexico is a land with endless possibilities. If you're seeking adventure, relaxation, culture, and great food, there's a place waiting for you. From the lively streets of Mexico City to the quiet beaches of Isla Holbox, the beauty and warmth of Mexico await. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip!

FAQ

Is Mexico safe for travelers?

Yes, many areas in Mexico are safe for tourists. It's good to stay informed about the regions you plan to visit, follow local advice, and take normal precautions as you would when traveling anywhere.

What is the best time to visit Mexico?

Mexico is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on where you're going. Generally, December to April is the dry season and a great time to visit most regions. Coastal areas can be hot and humid during the summer months.

What currency is used in Mexico, and can I use US dollars?

The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). In tourist areas, US dollars are sometimes accepted, but it's better to use pesos for better exchange rates and wider acceptance. ATMs are widely available for getting local currency.

Are there any travel advisories for Mexico?

It's always best to check your government's travel advisories before planning your trip. These advisories provide up-to-date information on safety and health considerations. Registering with your embassy can also be a good idea.

Can I drink tap water in Mexico?

In most places, it's recommended to drink bottled or purified water. Many hotels and restaurants provide purified water. Be cautious with ice and raw foods like salads in areas where water quality is uncertain.