17 Best Places to Visit in Mexico
Mexico invites you with open arms, beckoning you to bask in its sun-kissed coastlines and to experience the flavors of its rich culinary traditions. Each corner of this vibrant country is laced with contrasts and splashes of color, where bustling beaches give way to serene colonial sanctuaries, and expansive resort towns stand as thresholds to dense jungles alive with a chorus of parrots and howler monkeys. Venture into the heart of Mexico to discover its soul—not just in the echoing chambers of great ancient pyramids but in the harmonious day-to-day rhythm that pulses through its streets and squares.
As your journey unfolds, the majestic mountains bowing gracefully to kiss vast, arid deserts will capture your heart. The juxtaposition of adobe pueblo houses beside grand Spanish haciendas narrates a story centuries in the making. Mexico’s storied past, from the Mayan civilization to the bustling modernity of metropolises, stands a testament to the country’s enduring spirit.
Mexico City alone, a sprawling capital, is a treasure trove of history, offering both a glimpse into the ancient past with its rich historical center and a nod to contemporary indulgence with its sophisticated shopping experiences. Your adventure of places to visit in Mexico might lead you to the enigmatic streets of Oaxaca or to the hallowed grounds of Teotihuacan, each whispering secrets of a time when gods were revered under starlit skies and the land was a canvas of cultural tapestries.
1. Puebla
In the heart of Mexico, your journey takes you to Puebla, a city alive with over two million souls, grounded in the annals of Mexican history since its inception in 1531. Imagine yourself strolling through a cityscape where the aroma of international culinary fame beckons—I’m talking about mole poblano, a dish that whispers of ancient secrets and culinary finesse, born within these streets.
As you stand beneath the watchful eye of Popocatepetl, the city’s grandeur unfolds. Marvel at the Catedral de Puebla, where onyx figures stand silent vigil and the domed architecture echoes Rome’s own St. Peter’s splendor. A stone’s throw away, in Cholula, lies a testament to ancient majesty: the remnants of a colossal pyramid bear witness to the ebb and flow of time.
Exploring Puebla:
- Indulge in the city’s gastronomic delights: Test your palate with mole poblano.
- Discover architectural wonders: Visit the Catedral de Puebla for its blend of divine inspiration and earthly craft.
- Venture to Cholula: View the vast pyramid and feel the pulse of pre-colonial civilizations.
See Related: 15 Best Cities to Visit in Mexico
2. Acapulco
In the heart of Guerrero, your journey leads you to Acapulco, a city that curves gracefully along a bay—a theater where nature’s spectacle meets human artifice. The beaches, a canvas of gold, are the city’s prized ornaments, stretching from the bustling shores of Las Costera where Hornos and Icacos beckon sun-seekers.
- Beaches:
- Hornos: Feel the area’s pulse, favored for its lively scene.
- Icacos: Breathe in tranquility on this quieter strand.
- Papagayo and Tamarindos: Immerse in local color and spirited beach life.
- Langosta and Caleta: Discover pockets of serenity, acclaimed for pristine sands lapped by gentle waves.
Beyond the sands, you might seek the legacy of the Fort of San Diego, where the chapters of bygone eras are etched within its walls, or wander through the house filled with masked wonders from distant lands and tales.
Your exploration isn’t complete without a sojourn to the city’s heart—a square shaded by palms, where you catch glimpses of the ornate cathedral, savor local flavors, and witness the tapestry of Acapulco’s daily rhythm.
- Special Experiences:
- La Quebrada Cliff Divers: Marvel at the daring dives from 147-foot cliffs, an Acapulco signature since 1934.
Thrill, history, and laid-back leisure fuse seamlessly in Acapulco—the city a mirror to the many facets of your travel desires.
3. Playa del Carmen
Stroll the lively pathway of Quinta Avenida, where the air buzzes with a friendly cosmopolitan vibrancy. Here, amid the 20-block promenade, you’ll discover a plethora of local shops, high-end boutiques, and eclectic eateries — each nook a testament to Playa del Carmen’s transformation from a serene fishing enclave to a pulsating resort town.
Just off the coast, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef beckons, offering you a kaleidoscope of marine life as you dive into its depths. While the waters whisper tales of the earth’s second-largest reef, back on land, moments of tranquility await in the hidden gems of Xcaret Eco Park and the serene Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.
Embrace the warmth of Playa’s heritage, both past and present. Each step along its sandy shores is a dance with history, where the echoes of a gentle fishing village meet the footprints of today’s wandering travelers.
4. Merida
Merida, the heartbeat of Yucatan, welcomes you with its gleaming limestone architecture earning it the moniker, the “White City”. Your senses will revel in its distinct characteristics—Merida isn’t merely a city but an experience unto itself.
Within its embrace, history whispers through colonial edifices and the majestic mansions that line El Paseo Montejo, a boulevard reminiscent of an era when sisal wealth flowed through the city. Stroll under the sheltering canopy of trees, as the warm evening breeze carries tales from the city’s grand past.
In the city’s core lies the grand plaza, enveloped by the Gothic presence of a 16th-century cathedral and the stoic Governor’s mansion. A wander through these streets reveals the fusion of Mayan foundations and Spanish conquests – a blend that has seasoned the local culture.
Your taste buds will embark on their own adventure, with unique regional dishes influenced by Mayan, Caribbean, and colonial flavors. Explore the vibrant markets, an eruption of colors and scents, offering treasures to take a piece of Merida with you.
As the tropical sun reigns overhead, the locals retreat, following the rhythm of the siesta. Join them, and later, as the city reawakens, find your own rhythm amidst archaeological wonders and the pulse of the plaza. Merida, self-contained yet expansively rich, awaits your exploration.
See Related: Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Mexico
5. Taxco
Nestled among the verdant hills and undulating landscapes southwest of the Mexican capital, Taxco presents itself as a canvas of colonial elegance and silversmith finesse. Your eyes are drawn to the resplendent Santa Prisca Cathedral, the crown jewel of the city’s skyline, beckoning with its baroque adornment. Climbing its belltowers rewards you with sweeping vistas, promising a feast for the senses as you gaze over the labyrinth of cobbled streets.
- Silver Treasures: Embark on a treasure hunt for the town’s famed silverware. Artisanship here is a tangible whisper of an opulent past.
- Santa Prisca Cathedral: Stand in awe beneath the cathedral’s domes and let your gaze wander across the masterful architecture.
Venture here during Holy Week to witness the city pulse with devotion. The faithful navigate the city’s sharp inclines in a soul-stirring procession that transforms the town into a tableau of shared spiritual fervor. In this town, the spirit of Mexico’s heritage is brightly polished, mirrored in the glint of intricate jewellery on display, and felt deeply in the reverent steps of its Easter ceremony. Your visit to Taxco isn’t just about seeing, it’s about experiencing the harmonious blend of tradition, faith, and artistry.
6. Los Cabos
Los Cabos, the pinnacle of marlin sportfishing, beckons you with its tapestry of golden sands and cerulean waves. It’s a tale of two cities – San Jose’s colonial charm contrasts the dynamic fervor of San Lucas.
Stroll through San Jose, where the laid-back rhythm sets the stage for a tranquil retreat amid historical colonial architecture. In contrast, San Lucas whirls you into its rapid pace with lavish resorts, a constellation of fine dining, and championship golf greens within arm’s reach, culminating in an energetic nightlife that sparkles under the Mexican sky.
The Corridor cradles this dichotomy, a scenic route interspersed with exclusive communities and luxurious beachfront havens. Chileno Beach emerges as a snorkeler’s paradise, boasting crystal clear waters and a vivid underwater ballet of marine life. But the crowning jewel is Land’s End in San Lucas. Here, nature has chiseled the coastline into an art gallery of rock formations. The famed El Arco is a guardian, where you may spot playful sea lions basking in the sun.
Note how each town adds its unique brushstroke to Los Cabos’ canvas:
- San Jose: A serene escape into Mexico’s traditional embrace.
- San Lucas: A spirited adventure, rich with aquatic exploits from snorkeling to glass-bottomed discoveries.
From the tranquil to the electrifying, Los Cabos gifts you memories penned by land, sea, and air.
7. Cozumel
As you set foot on the sun-basked shores of Cozumel, an island perched within the cerulean embrace of the Caribbean Sea, you’ll find yourself in a diver’s sanctuary. The island’s reputation as a premier underwater realm is well-deserved, with dive shops dotting the coastline ready to guide you through vibrant coral gardens.
While the ocean’s perpetual ballet of currents may not favor the casual swimmer, thrill-seekers will revel in surfing the crests and dancing with the wind on a parasail. In contrast, the protected waters of Chankanaab National Park provide a serene enclave for those who prefer to immerse themselves in the calm.
For marine encounters with a different perspective, embark on glass-bottom boat tours or delve into the depths on a fishing excursion. Cozumel isn’t merely a watersports haven; it is a cultural tapestry rich with Mayan heritage. Feel the pulse of history at the San Gervasio ruins, where ancient stories linger in the whispers of the wind.
The island’s lifeblood, San Miguel, exudes charm with its mosaic of establishments, beckoning you with the promise of unique finds and local flavors. And at the bustling cruise ports, you’re greeted with a kaleidoscope of souvenirs, each telling a tale of this Mexican jewel. Your days here can unfold in as many patterns as the iguanas basking in the sun at Chankanaab’s botanical gardens. Cozumel is a destination not just to be seen, but to be experienced.
8. Palenque
In the heart of Chiapas’ thick jungle, the ancient site of Palenque emerges as a testimony to the Maya civilization’s grandeur. A seventh-century marvel, it may be smaller than its more famous counterparts, yet it stands out due to the intricacy of its stonework and the enduring legacy of its architectural finesse.
- Explore with awe: Traverse the numerous temple and palace complexes. Their preservation offers a rare glimpse into the rich past.
- Temple of Inscriptions: The tomb of the celebrated ruler Hanab-Pakal with detailed carvings revealing historical narratives.
- Timeless art: Be captivated by the hieroglyphics and bas-reliefs that chronicle the mythology and everyday life of the Mayas.
In Palenque, every stone tells a story, from the enigmatic Temple of the Cross to the Temple of the Sun, where lesser-known tales await your discovery. The air whispers age-old secrets, wrapping you in the cloak of civilization both spirited and deep-rooted in mystique. Here, you walk through a portal into an epoch where rulers once held sway amidst the ceremonial splendor, a world where ancient wisdom is etched into every corner.
9. Copper Canyon
In the heart of the Sierra Madre region, you find the vast expanse of Copper Canyon, its walls echoing hues of verdant copper. The canyons sprawl wider and deeper than their northern cousin, the Grand Canyon. The area teems with life; fluttering butterflies amongst a diversity of flora, and the San Ignacio rock formations stand sentinel, their silhouettes mimicking forest creatures. The towns of Creel and Batopilas serve as cultural oases amidst this natural majesty, preserving the essence of traditional Mexican life.
El Chepe winds its way through this rugged terrain, the Chihuahua-Pacific Railway offering a journey across 37 bridges and through 86 tunnels, reaching altitudes of 2,400 meters. Your breath will hitch at the panoramas of jagged cliffs and verdurous valleys revealed at each turn.
During a pause at Divisadero, the immensity of nature’s artistry unfolds before you. Here, you can indulge in local flavors and artwork, often presented by the indigenous Tarahumarans. Copper Canyon is not just a destination but an encounter with the profound depth of Mexico’s natural splendor and cultural richness.
See Related: Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
10. Guanajuato
Step into the city of Guanajuato, where the whisper of history echoes through its cobblestone alleys, and the past’s splendor is reflected in its grandiose baroque edifices. You wander amid the European ambiance, punctuated by quaint sidewalk cafés that invite you to savor a moment of leisure.
- Underground Tunnels: Often the highlight for many, these subterranean passages are not simply a novelty but a unique feature, enhancing your exploration with an almost adventurous twist.
Founded back in the 16th century, the luster of Guanajuato is not just surface-deep. It was once the heart of silver mining opulence, with the famed La Valencia mine still open to visitations—a reminder of glimmering fortunes hewn from the earth.
- La Valencia Mine: Venture here to grasp the city’s rich mining heritage.
- Church of San Cayetano: Stand before its splendor, where silver and gold embellish every corner.
As dusk wraps the city, the vibrant strains of mariachi envelop you, a testament to the city’s living traditions, culture, and the music that flows as freely as the evening breeze.
11. Cancun
Cancun, a gleaming jewel on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, offers a symphony of vacation experiences set to the rhythm of the Caribbean. With year-round sunshine, the coastal paradise beckons with its fourteen miles of silken beaches, each a delicate contrast against the azure canvas of the sea.
- Beaches: Your toes can sink into the white sands of Cancun’s coast, where watersports and souvenir opportunities abound.
- El Centro: For authentic local culture, venture downtown. Historical buildings nestle against a lively scene of markets, eateries, and music.
The ancient echoes of Mayan civilization whisper through Cancun’s modest yet stirring archaeological sites, such as El Meco and El Ray—the latter sitting regally amidst the hotel district.
- Activities: Indulge in jeep safaris or immerse yourself beneath the waves in a snorkeling or scuba adventure.
- Shopping and Sports: La Isla Mall offers a retail reprieve, while sports enthusiasts can savor football downtown or tee off at a lush golf course.
When night falls, Cancun transforms into an energetic mosaic of lights and sounds, where a panorama of bars, clubs, and oceanic dinner cruises await to captivate your senses. With every step, Cancun stitches a tapestry of experiences, ensuring memories as vivid as the city’s sunsets.
12. Oaxaca
Nestled in the embrace of the Sierra Madre mountains, the charismatic city of Oaxaca beguiles with its colonial elegance and ancestral textures. Your footsteps echo on cobbled lanes leading to the Zocalo, a vibrant nucleus fringed by historical marvels like the Santo Domingo church—its opulent facade a hymn to past grandeur. Here, linger in the plaza’s embrace; it invites you to revel in the al fresco café bustle, or uncover artisan treasures and cultural keepsakes.
Ascend to Monte Alban, where the past’s whisper is a shout over the silent ruins of Zapotec civilization. The vista from its heights—a spectacle of both man’s ancient ambition and nature’s undaunted sprawl. Contrastingly, the geometric intricacies that adorn Mitla stand as testament to a complex culture etched into stone.
Taste one of Oaxaca’s most storied offerings: mole. A blend where chocolate allies with chiles to form a culinary masterpiece. Pair it with a sip of Mezcal or a warming hot chocolate—their flavors are a distilled essence of local tradition.
In the tapestry of markets, find Oaxacan handicrafts, from supple wool rugs spun by the hands of Zapotec weavers to sleek black pottery and intricately crafted wood carvings, each piece echoing the artisan’s tale.
Lastly, immerse yourself in the cultural whirl of the city’s festivals. Particularly evocative is the Day of the Dead, which here unfolds in a kaleidoscope of reverence and celebration, while the Guelaguetza festival vibrates to the rhythm of indigenous dances, threading the fabric of community and tradition into one.
13. Mexico City
Nestled in the vast highlands of central Mexico, this pulsating heart of the nation is more than a political hub; it’s a cradle of cultural richness that echoes the symphony of its diverse populace. Stand in awe in the Historic Center, where imposing landmarks trace back to epochs past. Picture yourself at the Plaza de la Constitucion, with the towering Metropolitan Cathedral guarding the skies and the National Palace’s walls whispering tales of yore.
Mere steps away, you’ll stumble upon the remnants of an Aztec temple, a puzzle piece of history nestled in contemporary confines. Flourishing arts await your admiration, with local and international masterpieces filling museums and galleries. You can also wander through the verdant oasis of Chapultepec Park, embracing serenity amidst the bustling metropolis. Another irresistible charm is the enchanting Xochimilco Floating Gardens, a spectacle of nature’s artistry on water.
- Transit Tips:
- Navigate with ease via the extensive metro system.
- Skip the street cabs; secure your ride through your accommodation.
- Explore via Turibus for an optimal glance of the city’s tapestry of attractions.
Embrace Mexico City’s myriad experiences: feast on the eclectic, bask in the historic, and dive into a cultural panorama that’s as vast as the city itself.
14. Puerto Vallarta
Nestled in the embrace of the Bay of Banderas, with the Pacific Ocean’s waves whispering against its shores, your next sojourn beckons in Puerto Vallarta. It’s a tapestry of vibrant beaches and emerald mountain jungles, intertwined with colonial beauty and modern luxury.
- Beaches – Surrender to the sun-drenched sands, where you may indulge in serene sunbathing or embrace the thrill of kite surfing and sailboarding.
- Marine Life – The aquatic tableau is vivid, with opportunities to discover manta rays and playful dolphins. Between winter months, the migration of humpback whales offers a spectacle not to be missed.
- The Malecon Boardwalk – Stroll along the ocean-side promenade adorned with eclectic shops. Here, aromas from surrounding eateries mingle with the salty sea breeze, and the rhythms of local musicians underscore each step.
Venture beyond the city’s heartbeat to plantations brimming with mango and papaya, or uncover the serenity of fishing havens and hidden bays. The hinterlands challenge your spirit of adventure with trails beckoning for hiking or horseback riding, and canopy tours offer a bird’s-eye vista of the verdant landscape.
In Puerto Vallarta, every experience is vibrant with flavor, color, and life — a perfect mélange for creating memories that both soothe and exhilarate the soul.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Guadalajara, Mexico
15. Teotihuacan
Nestled a mere stone’s throw northeast of the bustling metropolis of Mexico City, the remnants of Teotihuacan offer a glimpse into a grand past civilization. Imagine structures towering above you as you meander through the ruins, and although the founders’ identities remain enshrined in an enigma, their genius in city planning is evident.
In its prime in the first half of the first millennium, the city was marked by an extensive array of edifices, majestic temples, and elaborate palaces, all bordered by plazas and vibrant marketplaces. The Aztecs, centuries later, stumbled upon these ruins and deemed it ‘Teotihuacan’—the birthplace of the gods—akin to a sacred site where they believed the cosmos took shape.
Today, the ancient majesty is perceptible at the archaeological site, with well-preserved murals and structures flanking the famed Avenue of the Dead. The colossal Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon stand as testament to the city’s ancient prowess, inviting you to explore their storied steps.
16. Tulum
Upon a rugged cliffside, the walled city of Tulum, an ancient Maya stronghold, commands a panoramic vista of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Past its zenith, when the vibrant Mayan civilization started to wane, Tulum’s structures, though modest in scale, are enlivened by the exotic backdrop—an enchantment unique among its peers.
El Castillo, a 25-foot edifice, rises with historical prominence, its ancient walls astonishingly resisting the corrosive passage of time. Once aglow with smooth stucco and vibrant hues, the castle served as a lighthouse guiding waterborne travelers to safety.
Below, where vessels historically graced the shores, a confluence of culture and leisure abounds. It’s not uncommon to see present-day explorers trade historical marvels for the indulgent embrace of the Caribbean waters.
Be mindful, ‘Tulum’ encapsulates three distinct areas:
- Tulum Pueblo: A lively settlement flanked by the highway, offering bus veins stretching to Cancun and beyond,
- Tulum Playa: A breezy coastal expanse, its immaculate sands stretching over 6 miles of untouched beauty,
- Tulum Ruinas: The archaeological heart, where the silent whispers of ruins beckon.
As you venture through these layered slices of Tulum, let the town center’s local charm bewitch you. The beach’s untouched sands invite quiet reflection, and the mysterious ruins transport you to a time when Mayan wisdom charted the stars. Every grain of sand and carved stone tells a story of grace, decline, and enduring legacy.
17. Chichen Itza
As you stand amidst the expansive ruins of Chichen Itza, you’ll quickly understand why this site commands the awe of all who wander its grounds. Dating from the 9th to the 12th century, the city’s sprawling remains attest to a time when it thrived as a center of Maya civilization.
Key Attractions:
- The Pyramid of Kukulcan: Dominating the landscape, this temple’s terraced design is a monumental tribute to architectural genius, casting serpentine shadows at equinoxes.
- Architectural Variety: Experience an eclectic mix of styles, a testament to the confluence of Maya and Central Mexican influences.
Planning Your Visit:
- Arrival: Many opt for a day excursion from nearby Cancún or Merida.
- Accommodations: To fully immerse yourself, consider staying overnight.
Feel the harsh rays of the sun and the rhythm of footsteps treading ancient paths. Here, in a place where time stands testament in stone, you engage with a past civilization’s legacy. Gaze upon the well-preserved temples and palaces, each offering a glimpse into the profound depth of Maya history.
As the shadow of the great Kukulcan Pyramid stretches before you, take a moment to appreciate the confluence of ingenuity and artistry that still resonates through time. Chichen Itza beckons not just as an iconic historical site, but as a palpable connection to the grandeur of an era long past.
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