Mexico, a land of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history, offers an unforgettable escape for every traveler. From ancient ruins and bustling cities to serene beaches and majestic canyons, the diversity of experiences is truly mesmerizing. Whether you’re seeking adventure, romance, cultural immersion, culinary delights, or simply a relaxing getaway, Mexico has something extraordinary to offer. Discover the best Places To See In Mexico and start planning your dream trip today.
1. Mexico City
Best place for art and vibrant culture
If you’re wondering where to begin your Mexican adventure, look no further than Mexico City, the dynamic capital. A sprawling metropolis of skyscrapers and ancient wonders, Mexico City pulses with life, boasting world-class museums, lush parks, bustling markets, and a captivating energy that captivates every visitor. Home to over 22 million people, this city is a cultural powerhouse waiting to be explored.
A must-visit for art enthusiasts is the “Casa Azul,” the iconic Museo Frida Kahlo. Step into the world of this celebrated artist, exploring her former home where she lived and created her masterpieces. Mexico City is also a canvas for some of the nation’s most important muralists. Marvel at Diego Rivera’s powerful murals in the Palacio Nacional, depicting the sweep of Mexican history, and witness José Clemente Orozco’s social-realist art in the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes.
Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture by gliding along the ancient canals of Xochimilco. Be serenaded by mariachi bands as you float through these historic waterways. Indulge in the authentic flavors of Mexico by sampling piping-hot tacos from countless street-food stalls in the downtown area. For a dose of entertainment, catch a captivating performance at one of the city’s numerous theaters – over 160 venues offer a diverse range of shows.
For a uniquely Mexican experience, witness the high-flying action of lucha libre (Mexican wrestling) at the legendary Arena México. The atmosphere is electric, and the spectacle is unforgettable. In Mexico City, you’ll find yourself constantly amazed by the sheer abundance of things to see and do.
Planning tip: Enhance your Mexico City experience with a day trip to Teotihuacán. These awe-inspiring pyramids, located just 50km (31 miles) northeast of the city, were once part of one of the largest pre-Columbian cities in the Americas. Consider visiting during the vernal equinox to witness special celebrations of spring at this ancient site.
2. Isla Holbox
Best island for bioluminescence and flamingos
For an island escape, Isla Holbox offers an incredible concentration of biodiversity within its small size. This slender island, just a mile wide and 26 miles long, is a natural paradise and one of the best places to visit in Mexico for wildlife encounters. Witness the spectacle of bubblegum-pink flamingos in their natural habitat at Punta Mosquito. From mid-May to mid-September, you might even spot majestic whale sharks gliding through the waters. And as darkness falls, prepare to be amazed by the magical bioluminescent phytoplankton that light up the sea like underwater fireworks, best seen on moonless nights.
Isla Holbox, pronounced “hol-bosh,” is a haven of tranquility located off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. With a car-free policy, the island’s sandy streets invite you to wander and discover endless beaches with warm, shallow waters perfect for wading and relaxation. The island’s laid-back atmosphere is further enhanced by its intentionally unreliable wi-fi, encouraging visitors to truly disconnect and embrace the island’s natural beauty.
3. San Miguel de Allende
Best place for craft shops and folk art
Woman admiring the parish church in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
This image showcases the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, the parish church, in San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico. The pink sandstone facade is a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture and a focal point of the historic city center.
San Miguel de Allende is a city that embodies Mexican charm and artistic spirit. Boasting a perpetually spring-like climate, enchanting light, and stunning architecture, it’s a haven for creatives and art lovers. The city is renowned for its exceptional handicraft shopping and engaging art workshops, making it one of the top places to see in Mexico for those seeking artistic inspiration. With a high concentration of art galleries relative to its population, San Miguel de Allende is a true artistic hub.
This captivating cobbled city has attracted artists and retirees for decades. Its artistic legacy began in the 1930s with the opening of an art institute in a former convent. In the 1960s, it drew literary icons like Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Neal Cassady, who sought inspiration and camaraderie in its bohemian atmosphere. Today, San Miguel de Allende retains its artistic soul. Its narrow, sloping streets are lined with boutiques and cafes adorned with colorful ribbons, creating a nostalgic, postcard-perfect ambiance.
The historic district adheres to a harmonious color palette of saffron, ochre, terracotta, and mustard yellow, enhancing its visual appeal. For panoramic views of this picturesque cityscape, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars, such as the popular Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende.
Planning tip: San Miguel de Allende is located in the state of Guanajuato, about a three-hour drive north of Mexico City. Visit in the spring to witness the city transformed by the vibrant purple blooms of jacaranda trees.
4. Bacalar
Best place for lagoon living and Maldives vibes
Everything about Bacalar exudes magic. Recognized as a “Pueblo Mágico” (Magic Town) by the Mexican government since 2006, Bacalar is famed for its ethereal, jewel-toned lagoon, tranquil spas offering traditional Mexican healing rituals, and a distinctly bohemian atmosphere.
The town’s creative spirit is evident in places like El Manati, a tropical restaurant and gallery where diners enjoy live music amidst vibrant murals. Wellness-minded travelers can experience temazcal sweat ceremonies and copal cleansings at boutique hotels like Casa Hormiga.
The main attraction in Bacalar is undoubtedly the 26-mile Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors” (Laguna de Los Siete Colores). Its mesmerizing gradient of blues and greens makes it perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating. Bacalar also features a deep cenote (freshwater sinkhole) and an historic Spanish fortress. Often called “the Maldives of Mexico,” laid-back Bacalar is one of the best places to visit in Mexico for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Planning tip: Bacalar is situated in the state of Quintana Roo, close to the border with Belize. The ADO bus provides convenient public transportation from Cancún, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum.
5. Guadalajara
Best city for mariachi music, tequila and fine dining
Jimador or Mexican farmer, skilled at harvesting agave for tequila on an agave plantation, Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico. Heavy, manual work, chopping the leaves from the body of the plant.
This image depicts a Jimador, a skilled Mexican agave farmer, harvesting agave plants in Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico. The photo highlights the manual labor involved in tequila production, showing the Jimador expertly removing the leaves of the agave plant using a coa de jima.
Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city, is a dynamic cultural center in the state of Jalisco. This region is the birthplace of tequila and mariachi music, as well as charrería, Mexico’s national sport. Don’t miss the annual International Mariachi and Charrería Festival in September. As one of the key places to see in Mexico, Guadalajara offers a rich tapestry of experiences.
Must-see attractions include a lienzo (charrería arena), the vibrant frescoes of the Instituto Cultural de Cabañas, a UNESCO World Heritage site and masterpiece by muralist José Clemente Orozco, and the sprawling Mercado San Juan de Dios, Latin America’s largest indoor market.
While steeped in tradition, Guadalajara has recently gained international acclaim for its modern culinary scene, consistently appearing on the World’s 50 Best lists. Indulge in sophisticated, globally-influenced Mexican cuisine and cocktails at acclaimed restaurants like Alcalde and El Gallo Altanero.
Planning tip: Guadalajara serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. Venture out to Lake Chapala, one of Mexico’s largest freshwater lakes, the agave fields of Tequila, or charming “Pueblo Mágico” towns like Tlaquepaque and Tapalpa.
6. Puerto Vallarta
Best place for sand, adventure and LGBTIQ+ events
Puerto Vallarta, with its dramatic scenery, is a beloved vacation spot for both Mexican and international travelers, including a significant number of LGBTQ+ visitors. Nestled between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Bahía de Banderas (Bay of Banderas), it’s a destination that caters to thrill-seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. Adventure lovers can conquer rugged terrain and rappel down waterfalls, while families can enjoy the sun-drenched beaches – Playa Conchas Chinas, Playa Las Gemelas, and Playa Mismaloya are among the most beautiful.
Puerto Vallarta is well-known as a welcoming destination for LGBTIQ+ travelers, with numerous gay-friendly hotels, beach bars, restaurants, and nightlife options. The Zona Romantica (Romantic Zone) is a popular hub for al fresco dining, and a stroll along the scenic Malecon boardwalk, adorned with bronze sculptures and street performers, is a must-do.
The ocean offers its own spectacles, from humpback whales breaching the surface to pods of dolphins playing in the waves and mother turtles arriving to lay their eggs.
Planning tip: For a heartwarming experience, visit Puerto Vallarta between July and December to witness baby turtle releases. Select hotels like Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa often host these special ceremonies.
7. Playa del Carmen
Best place for beach-meets-city vibes
Playa del Carmen offers the perfect blend of city vibrancy and beach paradise. This thriving city boasts enticing restaurants, white-sand beaches (including one connected to a cenote), and a lively atmosphere.
The palm-lined Quinta Avenida is the city’s main artery, a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, street performers, and diverse international eateries. This versatile beach destination attracts families, digital nomads, and solo travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Nightlife enthusiasts gather around Calle 12 (12th St) for energetic evenings at popular clubs like Mandala, La Vaquita, and Coco Bongo.
Playa del Carmen is also known for its variety of rooftop bars, from chic venues like UMI Rooftop and Tokyo Kitchen to laid-back spots like BeRoof.
From Playa, it’s easy to take day trips to other Riviera Maya towns like Akumal (famous for turtle encounters) using colectivos (minivans). Direct ferries to Cozumel are also available with Winjet and Ultramar.
8. Chichén Itzá
Best place to see pre-Columbian architecture
Temple of a thousand warriors at Chichen Itza.
This photograph captures the Temple of a Thousand Warriors at Chichén Itzá, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. The ancient Mayan ruins showcase the impressive architecture and scale of this pre-Columbian city, with rows of carved columns and the iconic pyramid El Castillo visible in the background.
If you’ve always dreamed of seeing one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá is a must-see destination in Mexico. With origins dating back to the 5th century, it’s the most famous of Mexico’s ancient Maya sites and one of the most significant places to see in Mexico for history buffs.
Marvel at the imposing El Castillo pyramid, where the shadow of the serpent god Kukulcán appears to descend the staircase during the spring and autumn equinoxes. Explore the Sacred Cenote and the intriguing El Caracol observatory, showcasing the advanced astronomical knowledge of the Maya civilization. Chichén Itzá is truly a spectacular testament to ancient ingenuity.
Planning tip: Enhance your visit by booking a Chichén Itzá tour with an English-speaking guide to delve into the fascinating legacy of Maya astronomers. Be prepared for heat, humidity, and crowds, especially during peak season. Consider exploring the site early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Note that closing time is strictly 5 pm. A post-sunset sound-and-light show offers another way to experience the site.
9. Zihuatanejo
Best place for an Old-Mexico feel
Zihuatanejo offers a charming “Old Mexico” atmosphere, benefiting from the development of its neighboring resort town Ixtapa. In the 1970s, Mexico’s tourism body strategically developed Ixtapa to create a Caribbean-style resort on the Pacific coast.
Ixtapa’s popularity extended to Zihuatanejo, located just 6.5km (4 miles) south. Zihuatanejo retains the feel of a tranquil fishing village, enhanced by relaxed seaside sanctuaries like Thompson Zihuatanejo on Playa La Ropa.
This laid-back town in the state of Guerrero boasts beautiful, uniquely named beaches ideal for surfing, diving, fishing, and enjoying fresh seafood with the sound of crashing waves as your backdrop. Stroll along Playa Las Gatas (Cat Beach), named perhaps for local wildcats or the whiskered nurse sharks in the waters. Or visit Playa La Ropa (Clothes Beach), the town’s most popular beach, rumored to be named after silk clothes that washed ashore from a Spanish shipwreck.
10. La Paz
Best place for quiet beaches
La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, caters to every beach preference. This delightful city is a gateway to the wonders of the Sea of Cortez, home to an astonishing 39% of the world’s marine mammal species and one of the most biodiverse marine environments on Earth, making it one of the most compelling places to see in Mexico for nature lovers.
Just a 40-minute drive from La Paz, Playa El Saltito offers tranquility and seclusion, especially during the hottest parts of the day. At night, its waters come alive with bioluminescence. Playa Balandra, with its iconic mushroom-shaped rock formation, is widely considered one of Mexico’s most stunning beaches, although it faces stiff competition.
A truly unmissable destination in the region is the UNESCO-listed Espíritu Santo island. Camp under a sky full of stars, snorkel with playful sea lions, and observe colonies of blue-footed boobies. Numerous tour operators offer activities like kayaking and snorkeling around the island.
Paddle boarding (SUP) off the island of Espiritu Santo, a Unesco Biosphere Reserve in the Gulf of California, Mexico.
This image captures a person paddleboarding (SUP) in the clear turquoise waters off Espíritu Santo Island, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Gulf of California, Mexico. The serene scene highlights the natural beauty and opportunities for water sports in this protected marine area.
11. Tulum
Best place for wellness and boho vibes
Over time, Tulum has evolved from its original name (Zama) and its status as a secluded beach and jungle town in the Riviera Maya into a world-renowned destination for honeymooners, wellness seekers, and those drawn to its bohemian charm. Today, Tulum is recognized as one of the premier places to see in Mexico for a holistic and stylish getaway.
Spirituality-focused travelers will find a wealth of activities in Tulum, from cacao ceremonies to pre-Hispanic sound healing and open-air rooftop yoga classes. Tulum offers a diverse range of dining and lodging options, from budget-friendly beachfront shacks to luxurious resorts and unique thatch-roofed boutique hotels like La Valise Tulum.
The beaches are picture-perfect, with Playa Ruinas being the most iconic. Here, remarkably well-preserved Maya ruins stand dramatically on a cliff overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea. The surrounding area offers further exploration, including the vast Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka’an, the secluded fishing village of Punta Allen, and the ancient ruins of Cobá.
Planning tip: Tulum Pueblo (the town center) offers more affordable dining and accommodation options, but it’s about a 20-minute bike ride or 12-minute taxi to the beach. If you prefer beachfront accommodations, plan and book in advance to find well-priced options.
12. Los Cabos
Best place for glitz, glamor and parties
Los Cabos, encompassing the sister cities of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, are world-famous destinations. Cabo San Lucas is known for its vibrant party scene, particularly popular with North American visitors, while San José del Cabo offers a more refined atmosphere with art galleries, luxury resorts favored by celebrities, upscale boutiques, and opulent tequila tasting experiences.
Together, these sun-drenched cities at the southern tip of the Baja California Sur peninsula are consistently ranked among the top places to see in Mexico.
Under the radiant Cabo sun, golf enthusiasts can pursue their passion on emerald greens designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, and surfers can ride world-class waves. While swimming beaches are limited, other water activities like deep-sea fishing, sea lion spotting, and whale watching (from mid-December to mid-April) are highly popular.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The marina bay. marina, Mexico, Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, boats
This image shows a vibrant marina bay in Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, Mexico. Numerous boats are docked in the clear blue water, surrounded by buildings and hills, capturing the lively atmosphere of this popular tourist destination.
13. Pico de Orizaba
Best place for a superlative trek
Pico de Orizaba, also known as Citlaltépetl, is a majestic, snow-capped volcano straddling the border of Puebla and Veracruz states. It is the highest peak in Mexico and the third-highest mountain in North America, reaching approximately 5636m (18,491ft) above sea level. As one of the most impressive places to see in Mexico for adventurous travelers, it presents a unique challenge.
This dormant volcano, with its last recorded eruption in 1846, attracts serious climbers. Professionals often train here before attempting Mount Everest. Treks typically begin from the village of Tlachichuca, and the ascent requires technical climbing skills. Pico de Orizaba is considered the ultimate trekking and climbing challenge in Mexico.
For those seeking less strenuous activities, the town of Orizaba offers attractions including a scenic riverside walk, museums, galleries, and the unique “Iron Palace.” For panoramic views of the region, take a ride on the cable car up to the park atop Cerro del Borrego. From this elevated vantage point, admire the historic churches of Orizaba and the surrounding mountainous landscape, including the snow-covered peak of Pico de Orizaba.
14. Copper Canyon Railway
Best for a train ride
The Ferrocarril Chihuahua Pacífico (Copper Canyon Railway), often called the Chepe Express, is one of Latin America’s most remarkable train journeys. “Chepe” is derived from the “Ch” of Chihuahua and “P” of Pacífico. The train ascends from sea level at Los Mochis to the town of Creel, traversing the dramatic, rust-colored landscapes of the Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre), often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Mexico”. This scenic route makes it one of the most unforgettable places to see in Mexico.
From your train window, you’ll witness breathtaking vistas of alpine forests, subtropical valleys, Tarahumara villages, and glimpses into some of the world’s deepest canyons. Consider overnight stays at lodges perched on the canyon’s edge to fully immerse yourself in the scenery. Extend your stay to explore the area through hiking, horseback riding, and even zip-lining.
View of the side of train carriages winding their way along the Copper Canyon Railway
This image shows a passenger train winding its way along the Copper Canyon Railway in Chihuahua, Mexico. The train carriages are seen from the side as they navigate the rugged terrain, showcasing the scenic beauty of the Copper Canyon and the unique experience of this rail journey.
15. Oaxaca City
Best place for mezcal and cultural celebrations
Oaxaca City, once the capital of the Zapotec Civilization, is now renowned as Mexico’s premier mezcal-producing region. This vibrant city is one of the most culturally rich places to see in Mexico, offering a blend of history, gastronomy, and festive traditions.
Exceptional mezcals crafted throughout the state find their way to atmospheric mezcalerias in Oaxaca City, such as La Popular, El Destilado, and La Mezcalerita. Knowledgeable locals can guide you on mezcal tours to experience the city’s smoky spirit. (Consider exploring Mezcouting and Oaxacking for guided experiences.)
Oaxaca City’s frequent and colorful fiestas are a delight for cultural travelers. The city comes alive during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivities at the beginning of November, as families honor loved ones with vigils, offerings, and parades. Another unique celebration is Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) on December 23. This competition, dating back to 1897, involves carving radishes into intricate scenes displayed in the Zócalo, Oaxaca’s main square.
Planning tip: Venture about two hours outside Oaxaca City to Hierve el Agua, a stunning petrified waterfall-like formation. You can reach these mineral-rich infinity pools by bus, rental car, or hired driver.
Woman selling Oaxacan deserts from food cart.
This image shows a woman selling Oaxacan desserts from a traditional food cart in Oaxaca, Mexico. The colorful cart and the variety of sweets on display capture the vibrant street food culture and culinary traditions of Oaxaca.
Mexico’s diverse destinations offer something for everyone. From the bustling streets of Mexico City to the tranquil beaches of Isla Holbox, the historical wonders of Chichén Itzá to the cultural richness of Oaxaca City, the places to see in Mexico are truly captivating and promise unforgettable travel experiences.
