Mexico, a land of vibrant contrasts, offers an intoxicating blend of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and pulsating modern culture. From the serene beaches of the Caribbean and Pacific coasts to the bustling metropolis of Mexico City and the historical depths of Mayan ruins, Mexico presents a kaleidoscope of experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, romantic getaways, cultural immersions, gastronomic delights, or simply a relaxing escape, the Best Mexico Destinations promise unforgettable memories.
1. Mexico City: A Metropolis of Art and Culture
Best for: Art enthusiasts and vibrant cultural experiences.
For first-time visitors to Mexico, Mexico City is an unparalleled starting point. This dynamic capital pulsates with life, a sprawling urban landscape where skyscrapers meet ancient markets, and serene parks offer respite from the energetic rhythm of over 22 million inhabitants.
Mexico City’s cultural tapestry is richly woven with world-class museums, none more iconic than the “Casa Azul,” the Frida Kahlo Museum. Here, you can delve into the life and art of the celebrated Mexican artist, exploring the home where she lived and breathed her creative spirit.
Art aficionados will find themselves captivated by the city’s murals, a legacy left by Mexico’s most influential muralists. The Palacio Nacional showcases Diego Rivera’s epic historical narratives, while the Palacio de Bellas Artes houses the compelling social realism of José Clemente Orozco.
To immerse yourself in authentic Mexican culture, glide along the ancient canals of Xochimilco. Mariachi bands provide a lively soundtrack to your journey as you navigate these historic waterways. For a true taste of Mexico, indulge in the tantalizing street food scene, especially the tacos from downtown stalls, before experiencing the spectacle of a show at one of the city’s numerous theaters.
For a dose of high-energy entertainment, witness the spectacle of lucha libre (Mexican wrestling) at Arena México. The exhilarating atmosphere and colorful characters create a truly unforgettable experience. In Mexico City, you’ll find an endless array of activities to fill your days and nights.
Planning Tip: Enhance your Mexico City adventure with a side trip to Teotihuacán, a pre-Columbian archaeological marvel located just 50km (31 miles) northeast of the city. Explore the towering pyramids of this ancient city, once one of the largest in the Americas, and consider a visit during the vernal equinox to witness special celebrations.
2. Isla Holbox: Island Paradise of Bioluminescence and Flamingos
Best for: Nature lovers seeking bioluminescent waters and flamingo sightings.
Isla Holbox, a small island off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, is a biodiversity hotspot that defies its size. This tranquil haven, only a mile wide and 26 miles long, is among the best places in Mexico to witness the captivating sight of bubblegum-pink flamingos in their natural habitat, particularly at Punta Mosquito. Between mid-May and mid-September, you might even catch a glimpse of majestic whale sharks. As night falls, prepare to be mesmerized by the bioluminescent phytoplankton that illuminate the waters, resembling a spectacular underwater fireworks display, best viewed on moonless nights.
Holbox, pronounced “hol-bosh,” is the epitome of a laid-back island escape. Cars are banned, ensuring peace and tranquility, and sandy streets lead to pristine beaches with inviting, shallow waters perfect for relaxation. The island’s charm lies in its simplicity and natural beauty, offering a true escape from the everyday. The only potential drawback, unreliable Wi-Fi, is arguably a blessing in disguise, encouraging visitors to disconnect and fully embrace the island’s serenity.
3. San Miguel de Allende: Artistic Haven of Craft Shops and Colonial Charm
Best for: Art aficionados, craft shoppers, and lovers of colonial architecture.
San Miguel de Allende exudes an enchanting beauty, blessed with a perpetually spring-like climate, radiant light, and stunning colonial architecture. This city is a treasure trove of handcrafted goods, offering exceptional shopping opportunities, and a vibrant hub for art workshops. With its high concentration of art galleries, San Miguel de Allende is a magnet for creative souls seeking inspiring Mexico destinations.
Since the opening of its first art institute in a former convent in the 1930s, San Miguel de Allende has drawn artists and retirees alike. Literary icons like Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Neal Cassady were drawn to its bohemian atmosphere in the 1960s.
Today, San Miguel de Allende’s cobblestone streets are lined with charming boutiques and cafes adorned with colorful ribbons. The city’s historic district adheres to a strict color palette of saffron, ochre, terracotta, and mustard yellow, creating a visually stunning and harmonious environment. For panoramic views, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars, such as Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, a local favorite.
Planning Tip: San Miguel de Allende is conveniently located a three-hour drive north of Mexico City in the state of Guanajuato. Visit during spring to witness the city transformed by the vibrant purple blooms of jacaranda trees.
Woman admiring the parish church in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
4. Bacalar: The Serene Lagoon of Seven Colors
Best for: Lagoon enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil “Maldives of Mexico” experience.
Bacalar is a truly magical destination, officially designated a “Pueblo Mágico” (Magic Town) by the Mexican government in 2006. Its crown jewel is the ethereal Bacalar Lagoon, renowned for its mesmerizing shades of turquoise and blue, earning it the moniker “Lagoon of Seven Colors.” Bacalar offers a distinct bohemian atmosphere, complemented by serene spas offering traditional Mexican healing rituals.
El Manati, a popular restaurant-gallery, provides a vibrant setting with live music and colorful murals, while Casa Hormiga boutique hotel offers wellness-focused travelers experiences like temazcal sweat ceremonies and copal cleansings.
The primary draws of Bacalar are activities on the 26-mile long Bacalar Lagoon. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat trips allow you to fully appreciate the lagoon’s stunning gradient of blues and greens. The town also features a deep cenote (freshwater sinkhole) and an ancient Spanish fortress, adding to its historical and natural appeal. Often called “the Maldives of Mexico,” Bacalar is an ideal Mexico destination for those seeking tranquility and escape.
Planning Tip: Bacalar is situated in the state of Quintana Roo, near the border with Belize. Public transportation is readily available via ADO buses from Cancún, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum.
5. Guadalajara: Mariachi, Tequila, and Culinary Delights
Best for: Mariachi music lovers, tequila connoisseurs, and fine dining experiences.
Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city, is a dynamic cultural hub in the state of Jalisco. This region is the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila, as well as charrería, Mexico’s national sport. Don’t miss the annual International Mariachi and Charrería Festival held in September.
Key attractions in Guadalajara include a lienzo charro (charrería arena), the impressive frescoes of the Instituto Cultural de Cabañas, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the art of José Clemente Orozco, and Mercado San Juan de Dios, Latin America’s largest indoor market.
While steeped in tradition, Guadalajara has recently emerged as a culinary hotspot, earning recognition on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants lists. Indulge in sophisticated Mexican cuisine and innovative cocktails at acclaimed restaurants like Alcalde and El Gallo Altanero.
Planning Tip: Guadalajara serves as an excellent gateway to explore the surrounding region. Venture to Lake Chapala, one of Mexico’s largest freshwater lakes, the tequila heartland of agave fields in Tequila, or charming “Pueblos Mágicos” like Tlaquepaque and Tapalpa.
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.
6. Puerto Vallarta: Beaches, Adventure, and LGBTQ+ Vibrancy
Best for: Beach vacations, adventure activities, and LGBTQ+ travelers.
Puerto Vallarta, nestled between the Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay, is a beloved vacation spot for both Mexicans and international visitors. Its dramatic landscapes offer a playground for thrill-seekers, with opportunities for rappelling down waterfalls and conquering rugged terrain. Families can unwind on beautiful beaches like Playa Conchas Chinas, Playa Las Gemelas, and Playa Mismaloya.
Puerto Vallarta is also a welcoming and popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, boasting a thriving gay scene with numerous hotels, beach bars, restaurants, and nightlife venues catering to this community.
The Zona Romantica (Romantic Zone) is perfect for couples seeking intimate alfresco dining experiences, while the Malecon boardwalk, adorned with bronze sculptures and street performers, provides delightful free entertainment. The ocean offers its own spectacles, with humpback whales breaching, dolphins playing, and sea turtles arriving to lay their eggs.
Planning Tip: For a memorable experience, visit Puerto Vallarta between July and December to witness baby turtle releases. Many hotels, including Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, host ceremonies where you can participate in releasing newborn turtles into the sea.
7. Playa del Carmen: Beach City Bliss
Best for: Combining beach relaxation with city excitement.
Playa del Carmen offers the best of both worlds: a dynamic city center brimming with enticing restaurants and stunning white-sand beaches, some even connected to cenotes.
Quinta Avenida, the city’s main thoroughfare, is a vibrant pedestrian street lined with diverse shops, lively street performances, and international dining options. Playa del Carmen attracts a diverse crowd, from families building sandcastles to digital nomads and solo travelers seeking adventure. Nightlife enthusiasts flock to Calle 12 (12th Street) for pulsating clubs like Mandala, La Vaquita, and Coco Bongo.
Playa del Carmen also boasts an impressive array of rooftop bars, from the chic UMI Rooftop and Tokyo Kitchen to the relaxed BeRoof. From Playa, as locals call it, day trips to Riviera Maya towns like Akumal (renowned for turtle encounters) are easily accessible via colectivos (minivans). Ferries to Cozumel are also readily available.
8. Chichén Itzá: Stepping Back into Mayan History
Best for: Exploring pre-Columbian architecture and Mayan civilization.
Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is a must-see Mexico destination. Dating back to the 5th century, it’s Mexico’s most famous ancient Mayan city.
The imposing El Castillo pyramid dominates the site, where during the spring and autumn equinoxes, the shadow of the serpent god Kukulcán appears to descend the staircase. Explore the Sacred Cenote and the intriguing El Caracol observatory, each telling a story of Mayan ingenuity and cosmology. Chichén Itzá offers a profound journey into the heart of the Mayan civilization.
Planning Tip: Enhance your visit by booking a guided tour with an English-speaking expert to delve into the fascinating legacy of Mayan astronomers and the site’s rich history. Be prepared for heat, humidity, and crowds, especially during peak season. Consider visiting early morning or late afternoon, noting the 5 pm closing time. A post-sunset sound-and-light show offers another perspective on this ancient wonder.
Temple of a thousand warriors at Chichen Itza.
9. Zihuatanejo: Old Mexico Charm on the Pacific Coast
Best for: Experiencing a traditional Mexican fishing village atmosphere.
Zihuatanejo, benefiting from the development of neighboring Ixtapa, retains the charm of a sleepy fishing village. While Ixtapa was carefully planned as a Caribbean-style resort destination on the Pacific coast in the 1970s, Zihuatanejo, located just south, offers a more relaxed and authentic Mexican experience.
Zihuatanejo’s laid-back ambiance is enhanced by seaside sanctuaries like Thompson Zihuatanejo on Playa La Ropa. The town boasts beautiful beaches with intriguing names, perfect for surfing, diving, fishing, and savoring fresh seafood by the waves.
Explore Playa Las Gatas (Cat Beach), named after either wildcats or nurse sharks, or relax on Playa La Ropa (Clothes Beach), named after a legendary shipwreck carrying silk garments. Zihuatanejo offers a tranquil escape with a touch of old Mexico.
10. La Paz: Serene Beaches and Marine Wonders
Best for: Quiet beaches and encounters with marine wildlife.
La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, caters to every type of beach lover. It serves as a gateway to the Sea of Cortez, a marine biodiversity hotspot home to 39% of the world’s marine mammals.
Playa El Saltito, about 40 minutes from La Paz, offers tranquility and isolation, with bioluminescent waters illuminating the nights. Playa Balandra, renowned for its unique mushroom-shaped rock formation, is widely considered one of Mexico’s most stunning beaches.
Espíritu Santo island, a UNESCO-listed gem, is an unmissable destination. Camp under the stars, snorkel with playful sea lions, and observe blue-footed boobies. Various operators offer kayaking and snorkeling tours, making it easy to explore this natural paradise.
Paddle boarding (SUP) off the island of Espiritu Santo, a Unesco Biosphere Reserve in the Gulf of California, Mexico.
11. Tulum: Boho Vibes and Wellness Retreats
Best for: Wellness seekers and bohemian beach experiences.
Tulum has evolved from a secluded beach town into a world-renowned destination, attracting honeymooners, wellness enthusiasts, and those seeking a bohemian vibe.
Tulum offers a plethora of wellness activities, from cacao ceremonies to ancient sound healing and rooftop yoga classes. The town boasts a variety of restaurants, bars, and accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly shacks to luxurious resorts like La Valise Tulum.
Tulum’s beaches are picture-perfect, with Playa Ruinas, overlooked by well-preserved Mayan ruins perched on a cliff, being particularly iconic. Explore nearby attractions like the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, the secluded fishing village of Punta Allen, and the Cobá ruins.
Planning Tip: Tulum Pueblo (town center) offers more affordable dining and lodging options but is a 20-minute bike ride or 12-minute taxi to the beach. Plan accordingly if beachside accommodation is your preference.
12. Los Cabos: Glitz, Glamour, and Party Central
Best for: Luxury vacations, vibrant nightlife, and glamorous experiences.
Los Cabos, encompassing Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, is synonymous with luxury and excitement. Cabo San Lucas is famous for its lively party scene, attracting North American crowds, while San José del Cabo offers a more refined atmosphere with art galleries, luxury resorts, and upscale tequila tasting experiences.
Together, these sun-drenched cities at the southern tip of the Baja California Sur peninsula are top-tier Mexico destinations. Golfers can enjoy world-class courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, and surfers can tackle renowned surf breaks. While swimming beaches are limited, deep-sea fishing, sea lion encounters, and whale watching (mid-December to mid-April) provide ample aquatic adventures.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The marina bay. marina, Mexico, Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, boats
13. Pico de Orizaba: Conquering Mexico’s Highest Peak
Best for: Experienced trekkers and mountain climbers seeking a challenge.
Pico de Orizaba, or Citlaltépetl, a majestic snow-capped volcano straddling the border of Puebla and Veracruz states, is Mexico’s highest peak and the third-highest in North America. This dormant volcano attracts serious climbers, with many professionals using it as preparation for Mount Everest.
Treks typically commence from the village of Tlachichuca, and the ascent requires technical skills. Pico de Orizaba presents the ultimate trekking and climbing challenge in Mexico. For less strenuous activities, the town of Orizaba offers a riverside walk, museums, galleries, and the unique “Iron Palace.” Take a cable car up Cerro del Borrego for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountainous landscape, including Pico de Orizaba’s snow-capped summit.
14. Copper Canyon Railway: A Scenic Train Journey
Best for: Unforgettable train adventures through dramatic landscapes.
The Ferrocarril Chihuahua Pacífico (Copper Canyon Railway), also known as Chepe Express, is one of Latin America’s most remarkable rail journeys. Traveling from sea level at Los Mochis to Creel, the train traverses the stunning Copper Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Mexico.”
The train journey offers breathtaking vistas of alpine forests, subtropical valleys, Tarahumara villages, and glimpses into some of the world’s deepest canyons. Consider overnight stays at lodges overlooking the canyon rim to fully explore the area, with opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and zip-lining. The Copper Canyon Railway provides a unique and unforgettable way to experience Mexico’s dramatic landscapes.
View of the side of train carriages winding their way along the Copper Canyon Railway
15. Oaxaca City: Mezcal, Culture, and Celebrations
Best for: Mezcal tasting, cultural immersion, and vibrant festivals.
Oaxaca City, the former capital of the Zapotec civilization, is now renowned as Mexico’s mezcal heartland. Numerous mezcalerias, like La Popular, El Destilado, and La Mezcalerita, offer the region’s finest mezcals. Guided tours, such as those offered by Mezcouting and Oaxacking, provide immersive mezcal tasting experiences.
Oaxaca City is also famous for its colorful festivals. Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations in early November draw large crowds, with families honoring loved ones through vigils, offerings, and parades. Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) on December 23 is another unique event, where radishes are intricately carved into scenes displayed in the Zócalo.
Planning Tip: Venture two hours outside Oaxaca City to Hierve el Agua, a stunning petrified waterfall formation with mineral-rich infinity pools. Accessible by bus, rental car, or hired driver, it’s a worthwhile day trip.
Woman selling Oaxacan deserts from food cart.
Conclusion
From coast to coast and mountain peak to ancient ruin, the best Mexico destinations offer an unparalleled array of experiences. Whether you seek the thrill of adventure, the serenity of pristine beaches, the richness of history and culture, or the zest of vibrant city life, Mexico awaits with open arms and countless treasures to discover. Start planning your Mexican journey today and prepare to be captivated by the magic of this extraordinary country.
