best mexico travel guide

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Mexico Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 10, 2023

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).

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
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
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Top 7 Mexico Guidebooks

An essential item in your trip planning toolkit is a good guidebook. Being able to do a lot of research online before traveling is great, but nothing beats being able to carry a book you can consult anywhere on the road. Here is a list of recommended Mexico guidebooks to help you choose the best one for you.

Lonely Planet Mexico

Among the most comprehensive guidebooks on the market, Lonely Planet's Mexico Guidebook is popular with backpackers and ideal for independent budget travelers covering a lot of ground, particularly those who don't plan much in advance and need a wealth of information at the ready. If you're planning to stay in one area of Mexico, don't lug this tome around with you; get one of the regional guidebooks or purchase the individual chapters of interest to you that are available for download.

The Rough Guide to Mexico

The Rough Guide to Mexico is a publication geared toward budget travelers but is comprehensive enough to appeal to all. This guidebook contains detailed maps, essays on Mexican history and culture, a wide range of lodging options and recommendations for off-the-beaten-path places to visit. Some readers are put off by lack of some specific information such as bus schedules, however, schedules are subject to change, so instead of relying on this type of information from a guidebook, you're better off making your own inquiries about these specifics.

Fodor's Mexico

Fodor's Mexico guidebook has plenty of good information about the most popular tourist destinations but if you're planning to stray from the beaten path even a little bit you won't find any information to help you. Fodor's Mexico guidebook even completely leaves out Monterrey , Mexico's second largest city. This guidebook is visually pleasing, however, with good maps and photos, and the symbols in the margin help to easily find which places are recommended, sights that are good for children, and price ranges.

Eyewitness Travel Guide Mexico

Eyewitness Travel Guides are known for their comprehensive and detailed pictures, drawings, floor plans, maps and illustrations, and the Mexico edition is no exception. This guide is great as a planning tool, though since it's not updated yearly as some of the other guides, its information may not be as up-to-date. Use this mainly for before-trip planning.

Footprint Mexico

Footprint's Mexico guidebook manages to pack in an extraordinary amount of information, but with coverage of all seven Central American countries plus Mexico, it may be more than you need.

Let's Go Mexico

The Let's Go books are aimed primarily at budget travelers and backpackers. Even if you're not on a tight budget, you may find the information about traveling by public transportation to be helpful in your trip planning.

National Geographic Traveler: Mexico

Abundantly illustrated with glossy full color maps and photographs, National Geographic's Mexico guidebook tries to please both armchair travelers and adventure travelers alike. The essays on Mexican history, culture and food are well worth reading, but practical information is not as detailed as some of the other guides. This guide will help you sift out the best Mexico has to offer and is a good complement to other guidebooks.

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The Ultimate Mexico Travel Guide: What To See and Insider Tips for Your Trip

Planning a trip to Mexico? You’ll love it. From the best time to visit to unmissable places to see and insider tips – here’s your step-by-step Mexico travel guide.

Get ready people, this is about to get real. 

So you’re planning your Mexico travels and you want the full lowdown before you go. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. 

I just came back from another trip to Mexico and (surprise, surprise), I loved it. Throughout the course of five weeks, I criss-crossed my way up the country from Tulum up to Mexico City and back down again. 

But this isn’t about me, it’s about you. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Mexico – from cool places to see, to handy travel tips, you are going to be planning your Mexico trip like a pro. 

Mexico is a huge and intoxicating country that draws many people to its sandy beaches, Mayan ruins, stunning landmarks and party towns.

It would be a real shame if you thought that Mexico ended there though. When it comes to landscapes, food or the sheer number of activities, Mexico is pretty much guaranteed to make you fall in love with it. 

From the vibrant and sometimes overwhelming capital city to pristine surfing villages on the western Pacific coast to the ancient Mayan ruins amongst lush jungles and picturesque colonial towns, Mexico is a destination that exceeds so many expectations. 

But first… watch my practical AF video!

How to Plan a Trip to Mexico: Before You Go

Best time to visit .

Mexico is a huge country and the weather affects different parts of the country at different times of the year.

However, high season generally runs between December to April with the driest and most pleasant weather across most of the country. It can be extremely crowded though, especially around Christmas and Easter holidays with transport and accommodation filling up fast.

The wet season in the south and the hurricane season for the Caribbean coast runs sometime between May to October, depending on the specific region. September tends to be peak hurricane season with heavy rains and storms across the coastal areas. However, the north remains relatively dry with little rain all year round.

Arguably, the best month to explore Mexico is November. The rains have generally all but stopped in the south, the landscapes are nice and green, and the crowds are yet to arrive for December.

Read Next: The Best Time to Visit Mexico

Handy Resources for Getting To Mexico

To help plan your trips to Mexico, these resources and websites will help you with logistics and getting decent prices.

• Skyscanner is one of the best resources for finding the perfect flight at good prices, you can also search for an entire month to see when the cheapest dates are to fly for a particular city or country.
• Google Maps is a map app that allows you to download countries for offline use and is one of the best all round navigation apps. You can also pin and save locations, allowing you to plan where you want to go and what you want to see, as well as accommodation options and restaurants. 
• Uber is also a handy app to have downloaded on your phone in Mexico as you’ll be able to use it in most tourist-oriented towns and large cities. It will minimise the language barrier and reduce the haggling required when dealing with taxi drivers. That said, Uber isn’t available everywhere in Mexico, particularly areas like Tulum. 
• Booking an all-inclusive tour with companies like Intrepid Travel or G Adventures eliminates many of the hassles of planning a trip and logistical challenges compared to doing it independently, and means you’ll get to meet new people on the tour too. Although, of course, it reduces some of your freedom. 

Where to Stay 

Finding accommodation is not difficult in Mexico as in most of the tourist-oriented towns and cities you’ll be able to book your room or bed online through Booking.com or a similar platform. 

You should have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to mid-range hotels and budget hostels, and comparing prices and reviews online is always a good idea before settling on your choice.

Other options for accommodation include Airbnb , where you can often get whole apartments or self-catering homes for not too much more than a hotel room.  Mexico City in particular has a great choice of Airbnbs.

Plum Guide is another excellent site for finding brilliant apartment rentals in Mexico. They curate their properties so that only the very best make it onto the site – quality is guaranteed.

Couchsurfing is a popular alternative for those on a budget as it allows you to stay for free in someone’s home. It’s a great way to meet locals and even if you don’t want to stay at their place, you can use the app to arrange local meetups if you prefer to just have an authentic guide for the day.

Packing for Your Mexico Trip

Deciding what to wear in Mexico , it’s almost a given that packing a swimsuit is a must for any trip to Mexico, with most travellers hitting at least one of the coastal towns on either side of the country at some point on their trip. 

If your trip to Mexico coincides with any part of the rainy season and you plan on heading to the south, then a rain jacket , at the very least, will be essential.

A pair of good walking sandals or shoes are always a good idea, especially if you plan on exploring the cities on foot or hitting some of the canyons in the north. 

Combination locks of different sizes are also a smart addition to your luggage so you can easily lock your valuables away in hotel or hostel lockers and keep your bags secure on public transport.

A money bel t to hold your cash concealed on you while you’re walking around the cities are will help keep your cash safe from pickpockets.

You could also get a sim card for Mexico to make sure you have a good connection for internet data and calls.

Watch my Mexico Packing Tips Video

Travel Insurance 

My number one tip for how to visit Mexico (or anywhere else for that matter) is travel insurance. 

Guys, as someone who has travelled for years as part of this job, I can tell you that things can and do go wrong. 

It’s important to organise and pay for travel insurance before you depart on your trip. This will cover you for illness, injury, theft and cancellations if you pay for full comprehensive cover. 

Alpha Travel Insurance and The Post Office both offer comprehensive coverage. 

If you plan on hiring a car o r motorcycle, it’s also important to make sure that you take out insurance to cover it. 

In Mexico, it’s typically required that you must have Mexican car insurance through the rental company on top of your own insurance. It is often included in the price but do ask as you want to be sure it’s fully comprehensive insurance. 

Suggested Guidebooks to Explore Mexico

Lonely Planet and Rough Guides both have a Mexico country guidebook and are widely considered the best in the travel guidebook business. 

E-books are also available from both companies if you want to be able to carry it with you on your trip without adding weight to your luggage. I’m not personally a huge fan of e-book guidebooks as they’re difficult to navigate while you’re on the road, but I know others who swear by them. 

Mexico Visitor Guide: What to Do During Your Mexico Trip

Top 10 things to do in mexico, mexico city.

Mexico City is a mega-urban sprawl, which can sometimes be overwhelming, but is undoubtedly the capital of the country, both culturally and politically.

Visit the ancient Templo Mayor, hang out at Frida Kahlo’s old house and eat all the ridiculously good street food you can get your hands on. 

One of the main tourist towns on the Caribbean coast and a Mexican honeymoon escape , Tulum has incredibly situated Maya ruins and beautiful white sand beaches to match.

Dive into the crystal-clear cenotes, party all night on the beach and hike to hidden lakes in one of Mexico’s coolest spots. 

Read Next: Tulum – Mexico’s Laid-Back Paradise

Visit the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza 

The famous and most visited Mayan ruins in Mexico, Chichen Itza is regarded as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. The incredible pyramid-style temple is the main attraction, but the complex needs at least half a day to do it justice.

I love Merida with its colourful buildings and AMAZING food scene. The vibrant capital of Yucatan state with a rich colonial and Mayan heritage, this city is the perfect base for exploring the incredible surrounding landscapes.

It’s also firmly on the tourist trail but is less upmarket and more laidback than Tulum.

Read next: It’s Time to Discover Merida

 Oaxaca 

Oaxaca city is an important cultural hub of Mexico and the gateway for exploring the diverse Oaxaca state. It’s also a foodie’s paradise known for its legendary sauces (moles).

It’s also one of the best places to experience the famous Day of the Dead festival. 

Guadalajara

The second largest city in the country and more laidback than Mexico City, Guadalajara has stunning buildings and vibrant public squares.

It is also known as the home of tequila and mariachi, traditional Mexican music, making a visit there a rich cultural experience.

 Honour the Day of the Dead

The national and annual Dia de Muertos is one of the most fascinating festivals in all of the Americas. It is widely celebrated in the central and south regions of the country as a day when family members can reunite and celebrate with deceased relatives.

Costumes, rituals and parades are just some of what you can witness at this festival, held in November each year.

 Los Cabos

Situated at the southern tip of Baja California Sur, Los Cabos is one of the fastest growing tourist and resort areas in the country. But don’t let that put you off, because the surrounding area has a variety of landscapes to get lost in, including desert, beaches and mountains.

 Puerto Vallarta

One of Mexico’s nicest resort towns, Puerto Vallarta sits on the Pacific coast with jungle-strewn mountains as its backdrop. It’s most famous for its nightlife and outdoor activities. There’s no wonder millions of visitors pass through every year.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the prettiest cities in the country, Guanajuato is a former silver mining town during the Spanish era. Its colourful, colonial buildings is what draws most tourists to its picturesque streets

Suggested Mexico Trip Itineraries 

Covering everything in one trip to Mexico is difficult to do unless you have months up your sleeve to do so. The country is vast and some of the main cities are quite spread apart from each other. 

From the arid deserts and astounding canyons in the north to the dense jungles and white sand beaches in the south, it’s best to pick one region or just a few Mexico highlights to cover to ensure you don’t rush through in a whirlwind.

Most travellers begin their trips to Mexico in Mexico City, the main international transport hub and where most major airlines service.

Mexico City, Oaxaca and The Yucatan: Mexico Highlights 

This suggested itinerary covers the capital city, the Caribbean coastline, the most popular tourist attractions as well as Mayan ruins and is a sort-of all-round highlights trip. It’s pretty much the itinerary I followed on my recent Mexico road trip and I’d highly recommend it for getting to see a broad variety of destinations in the course of a couple of weeks. 

Two or three weeks would be enough time to cover the classic highlights of:

·      Mexico City

·      Oaxaca City

·      Merida

·      Chichen Itza 

·      Tulum

The Pacific Coast 

This second itinerary in our Mexico travel guide covers the capital city and further west towards more colonial and historical areas as well as a popular resort town on the Pacific coast.

This two-week trip itinerary would include:

·      Mexico City 

·      Guanajuato

·      Guadalajara

·      Puerto Vallarta

Read More: 2 Week Mexico Itinerary – Planning the Perfect Mexico Road Trip

Hidden Mexico – Mexico Off the Beaten Path

Mexico has plenty of tourist-oriented and overly popular places to visit which are mostly on the two southern coastlines of the country. However, the huge, vast country also has plenty of places that are underappreciated and see far less visitors.

Places that are not often included in Mexico travel guides include:

 Puebla 

This is a town two hours south of Mexico City and is full of historical sights such as the nearby Great Pyramids of Cholula (larger than the ones in Egypt), old plazas and cathedrals.

 Copper Canyon

Located in the middle of the Tarahumara Mountains, the Copper Canyon is an enormous and heart stopping natural sight. It’s situated in the north of the country in Chihuahua and despite its beauty, you’ll likely not see another gringo during your time there.

 Sayulita

A low-key, bohemian surfing town just 40 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta is starting to make a name for itself as a quiet alternative to the flashy resort areas, but it still flies under the radar. It’s the perfect place to learn how to surf in the soft waves in the bay.

Not too far from Mexico City, Taxco is a charming colonial town that’s known for its silver mining and production. But there’s more to Taxco than just silver (though paying a visit to the town’s main silver market is a must).

For breathtaking views of Taxco and its surroundings, take a ride on the cable car that runs between Taxco and Monte Taxco. Oh, and while you’re in town, make sure you try the town’s famous dish, pozole de guerrero – a hearty soup made with pork, hominy and chili peppers.

Lake Bacalar

This is a long and narrow lake in the state of Quintana Roo, known for its striking shades of blue that change throughout the day. There are also some interesting Mayan ruins in the surrounding jungle, and you can spend your time kayaking and diving in the turquoise water.

How to See the Best of Mexico for Free 

Couchsurfing is one of the best ways to get the best out of Mexico for free. In a sort-of cultural exchange whereby you stay in someone’s home free of cost, you are able to be immersed in the life of a local and see the side of Mexico that few travellers see when they stay at hotels. Quite often, hosts can also provide insider tips and act as informal guides in a city. 

Of course, the level of comfort and privacy in Couchsurfing varies and it’s not for everyone, but for those on a tight budget it can be a great way to see the country.

Visiting Mexico would not quite be the same without going to at least one local market , and the best part about them is that they are free to enter and can offer hours of entertainment and cultural immersion. 

I also highly recommend taking advantage of the free walking tours in every city. Although a tip is strongly encouraged (and expected – you’ll look very stingy if you refuse), this is a great way to explore the city without splurging. And you’ll also get to see all the best bits with the help of a handy guide.

Mexico City for Free

Mexico City in particular has many markets to choose from such as the century old Mercado Coyoacan for virtually anything you can think of, the Sonora Market for witchy handicrafts and crystals and Mercado de San Juan for all the food and fresh produce.

Mexico City also has plenty of sights and activities that won’t cost you a single peso. Some of the best free things to do in the city include:

·      Chapultepec Zoo

·      National Palace

·      Metropolitan Cathedral in the city centre

·      Many of the top museums also offer free entry on Sunday

Dishes to Try When Visiting Mexico

Mexican food in Mexico is almost nothing like what you’ll find in takeaway places in your own country and a hundred times better. The top dishes you need to try include:

Tacos – whether from a street cart or at a bar, they’re a favourite snack and some regions have their speciality like fish tacos on the coastal areas.

Molé – Molé basically means sauce, but it’s so much more than that. Visit Oaxaca, the land of the seven moles, and discover the rich flavours and family traditions that create these complex dishes. I tried a five-year old molé in the world-famous Pujol restaurant in Mexico City and it was like a party in my mouth. Drool.

Quesadillas – a corn tortilla folded over a filling with cheese and grilled until melted, often served with multiple sauces.

Tamales – a dough known as masa filled with beans and cheese and steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf.

Churros – the perfect Mexican dessert of deep-fried dough covered in cinnamon and sometimes even dipped in chocolate. 

Top Drinks in Mexico

Coffee – Mexico is one of the world’s largest producers of coffee and stopping in a traditional coffeehouse in Mexico City is a top foodie experience. 

Tequila – The real drink people recognise Mexico for, however, is tequila , distilled from the blue agave plant and usually taken with lime and salt.

Mezcal – Or plump for a taste of mezcal, tequila’s lesser-known (well outside of Mexico anyway) cousin – smoky and delicious, you’re sure to want to bring a bottle or two home with you. 

Tejate – A traditional zapateco drink made from maize, flor de cacao, mamey seeds and more – it’s earthy, delicious and filling, and the perfect taste of pre-Hispanic Mexico. Find it in and around the state of Oaxaca.

Mexico Travel Guide: Things to Know Before You Go to Mexico

Tips for travelling to mexico.

•  Learn some basic Spanish before you go, as it will help considerably with getting around and communicating with people, although most people in the popular destinations will speak decent English.
•  Leave expensive valuables at home and don’t flash them around the streets, as pickpocketing and petty theft does occur in the major cities and tourist towns.
• When you enter Mexico either through the airport or a land border, you’ll be given a tourist card, which is a part of the immigration form you filled out. You need to keep this and hand it over when you leave the country again.

Tipping in Mexico

Tipping is relatively common across the country and is a good way to show appreciation for good service. Wages are modest in hospitality and tourism and so tipping around 10-15% of the bill is generally considered a decent amount.

Interesting Facts You Should Know Before Visiting Mexico

• 85% of Mexico’s population is Roman Catholic.
• Mexico City is the fifth largest metropolitan area in the world, with over 21 million people living in the greater area.
• The government recognises 68 official indigenous languages across the country and there is likely up to 200 other variations. 
• Mexico is home to the third highest mountain in North America, Pico de Orizaba at 5636m.
• Mexico has 34 listed UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

Handy Phrases for Travelling to Mexico

“Hola” (pronounced o-la) – Hello 

“Gracias” – Thank you

“Cuanto cuesta?” – How much?

“Donde está…?” – Where is…?

“Lo siento” – I’m sorry

“No hablo español. Habla usted inglés?” – I don’t speak Spanish. Do you speak English?

“Dónde está el baño?” – Where is the bathroom?

“Salud!” – Cheers

Time Zones 

There are four different time zones across the country but most of the regions use Central Standard Time. The far west uses the Pacific Time Zone and Mountain Time Zone and the far east uses Eastern Time Zone.

Electricity + Adapters

The plug you’ll find most is Type A, which has two flat parallel pins and is mostly used in North America and Japan. Occasionally, you’ll come across Type B, which is the same, just with an extra pin for grounding, but Type A will fit as well so is the best one to carry with you.

You should get any of the routine vaccines such as measles, typhoid, and Hepatitis A and B, if you aren’t covered already.

Other health concerns lie mostly with malaria and dengue fever which are spread through mosquito bites. 

Only some areas of Mexico are at a high risk for these diseases and you should check with your doctor about where you plan on visiting in Mexico to see if malaria medication is recommended. 

Otherwise, it’s best to try and prevent mosquito bites yourself by covering your arms and legs and using repellent.

As a general rule, you shouldn’t drink tap water in Mexico because of the risk of contamination with bacteria and viruses. You can rely on bottled water, or a more sustainable approach would be to bring along a purifier such as LifeStraw or SteriPEN to filter and sterilise your own water from the tap.

Generally, the best option for moving between cities is the efficient bus network that is surprisingly comfortable and affordable too. They can vary in quality from luxury coaches to rundown school buses, and what you pay is what you get so if you’re planning on a long-haul journey it’s better to pay for a higher class. 

If you have less time or a higher budget, then domestic flights can be convenient and fast, and they operate between over 60 cities. Prices can vary though depending on the airline and it’s best to book in advance.

Check flights on Skyscanner

Hire a Car 

If you want to explore the country at your own pace, then renting a car or motorcycle can be affordable and convenient, especially for places off the beaten path.

Check car hire prices on Rentalcars.com

Mexico has for a long time been associated with drug-related violence and crime and there are certainly pockets of the country where this occurs. However, most of the crime happens away from the tourist trail and foreign tourists are rarely the target for any kind of organised crime activity.

That said, petty theft and pickpocketing does happen in the larger cities like Mexico City, and it pays to be cautious of your valuables when out exploring and especially at night. 

It’s also important to be aware of the areas in the country where crime rates and instability are higher, like Acapulco City or near the US border region, to steer clear of potential hotspots.

Costs and Budgeting

Mexico is a relatively budget-friendly and good-value country to visit. Although not as cheap as countries further south in Central America, it’s certainly more affordable than its North American neighbour. 

A budget traveller can expect to spend around £30/ US$50 per day with a dormitory bed, street food, local transportation and some attraction fees. 

A more mid-range, average traveller would spend between £50-90/ US$80-120 per day with a hotel room, three meals at a local restaurant, public transport and some taxis and most attraction fees.

Travelling in low season and away from the more famous coastline will bring costs down. 

There we are. The ultimate Mexico travel guide. You know that I’m all about the practical AF details when it comes to planning your travels and I hope this has given you a good steer on everything you need to know before you visit Mexico. 

All that’s left for me to say is I hope you have a brilliant trip! 

Read More Mexico Travel Tips 

• 2 Weeks on the Road in Mexico
• Why You’ll Fall in Love with Merida – Capital of the Yucatan
• Cool + Alternative Places to Visit in Tulum
• When to Visit Mexico

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Mexico Travel Guide

Sun-soaked beaches, tasty tacos, and mariachi beats; Mexico is a fiesta-filled paradise of spicy flavors and caliente vibes!

Best time to visit Mexico

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Mexico’s weather is beautiful, tropical, and warm most of the year. The dry season falls between November and April, with clear blue skies, perfect for beach enthusiasts. The wet season runs from May to October, bringing occasional rain and lush, vibrant landscapes.

How to Travel Safe

How to travel cheap.

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find Hostels via Hostelworld
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Mexico via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
• Get a Visa via iVisa
• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Mexico worth visiting?

Packed full of diverse landscapes, pristine beaches, ancient ruins, and lively cities, Mexico deserves a prime spot on every traveler’s bucket list. Beyond the breathtaking scenery, Mexico boasts some of the most vibrant food and culture—making it an absolute must-see destination!

Is Mexico cheap to visit?

Your budget will thank you in Mexico! Luxurious options are available, with plenty of expensive resorts and eateries. However, you can also indulge in mouthwatering street quesadillas, explore historic sites, stay in boho hostels, and relax on pristine beaches—all without breaking the bank. 

Can I drink tap water in Mexico?

Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Mexico. Bring a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter system to guarantee that your water is always safe to drink while being eco-friendly and reducing single-use plastic. 

Do I need a visa for traveling in Mexico?

Good news! Most countries can travel to Mexico without getting a visa before they travel. You’ll get a stamp on arrival with the length of stay, usually between 90 and 180 days, making it easy to travel to this beautiful country. 

Tip: Check your country’s entry requirements before you travel. 

What language do they speak in Mexico?

The official language spoken in Mexico is Spanish, with a slightly unique dialect known as Mexican Spanish, but the differences are small. Although Mexico is a popular travel spot, many locals don’t speak English, so learning a few phrases can help, and Google Translate will be your best friend!

Do I need travel insurance for Mexico?

Travel the breathtaking country of Mexico worry-free by purchasing travel insurance before your trip. This will protect you against unplanned events like medical emergencies, delayed flights, or lost luggage.

Is Mexico safe?

Despite media representation, most criminal activities happen away from tourism, and an emphasis has been put on protecting travelers. Like any destination, always keep valuables out of site, stay in well-traveled areas, and avoid walking alone at night.

What power plug type does Mexico have?

Mexico uses two plug types: Type A with two flat parallel pins and Type B with two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. Keep your devices connected by purchasing a travel adapter before your travel, and let the exploration begin!

Why do people love Mexico?

From the vibrant street food to breathtaking diversity, Mexico is loved by so many. Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites , or jump into crystal blue cenotes, this country offers so many unforgettable experiences! 

Travel to Mexico 

Imagine a country where ancient ruins whisper tales of the past, vibrant markets tease your senses, sparkling turquoise blue waves crash into palm-tree-lined beaches, and lively fiestas paint the streets with colors. Mexico is a paradise for travelers seeking a perfect blend of culture , adventure, and relaxation. 

How to plan your trip to Mexico

Looking to plan the ultimate adventure? Follow our Mexico travel guides ! Whether you’re backpacking around the Yucatán Peninsula , visiting the surfer’s paradise of Baja California, exploring the underwater world of cenotes, or catching rays on the white sand beaches of Isla Holbox , there are so many extraordinary things to do in Mexico . 

To really experience this fantastic country, we recommend renting a car and spending at least two weeks exploring and eating lots of delicious Mexican food—yum!

Organizing your dream vacation in Mexico ? With two distinct seasons and cultural celebrations, find out when the best time to visit Mexico is based on your preferences. 

Dry Season (November-April): The weather in Mexico during the dry season is usually around 28°C, making it the coolest and clearest time to visit. Although these months see the most crowds and high prices, the dry season is the perfect time to explore ancient ruins, lounge on the sandy shores, and indulge in water activities, particularly in coastal towns like Holbox and Tulum . 

Wet Season (May-October): For those seeking more tropical vibes, outstanding surf, and lush landscapes, the wet season is the best time to holiday in Mexico . While brief afternoon showers are expected, these typically only last for a short time, and you’ll often see beautiful sunshine the rest of the day. This is also an amazing time to visit for those backpacking on a budget, as it’s considered the low season, so prices tend to be lower, and crowds are few and far between. 

Tip: Hurricane season coincides with these months, particularly in September and October, so always keep an eye out for any warnings and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Best time to visit Mexico for festivals: If you’re after something a little different and want to experience the truly unique festival of Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), where streets come alive with colorful processions, traditional costumes, and a profound sense of remembrance, head to Mexico for the 1st and 2nd of November; the atmosphere is like no other! 

Coastlines and beaches in Mexico

With over 5,000 miles of coastline, Mexico has countless breathtaking and diverse beaches. To the east, you’ll find the picture-perfect beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, while to the west is the untamed and surfer-friendly Pacific Ocean.

From Cancun to Tulum , the Caribbean coastline invites you to indulge in paradise. With its crystalline turquoise waters and pristine white beaches, these destinations redefine luxury. Cancun, a buzzing resort city, offers vibrant nightlife and water activities, while Tulum’s bohemian charm and ancient Mayan ruins provide a serene escape.

Nearby, nestled off the Yucatán Peninsula , is the untouched beauty of Isla Holbox , a car-free haven and a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility amid nature’s wonders. Accessible by ferry, this island paradise offers miles of unspoiled beaches where soft white sand meets the clear, shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Heading west, the Pacific coastline unveils a different kind of beauty. Puerto Vallarta enchants with its colorful streets, colonial architecture, and long sandy beaches, while the nearby Riviera Nayarit beckons with secluded coves and lush landscapes. Sayulita is a must-visit if you’re in the area; a colorful, bohemian beach town home to incredible surf and stunning deserted beaches. 

The Baja California Peninsula is the place to go for those seeking a tranquil retreat and home to out-of-this-world gems From Cabo San Lucas, with the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas, to La Paz, known for Balandra Bay, with half-moon-shaped coves offering panoramic views; two spots not to be missed. 

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful off-grid retreat, a crazy surf adventure, or boho beach vibes, Mexico has a stretch of sand perfectly suited to meet your vacation needs.

Food, culture and religion in Mexico

Mexico is a sensory fiesta of food, culture, and religion , painting a vivid portrait of a nation steeped in tradition. 

Food: Amidst the bustling streets and lively markets, the aromas of flavorsome dishes fill the air, like tamales, tacos, tortas ahogadas, and zesty salsas, enticing locals and visitors alike; you’ll never be short of options and new delicious things to try. 

Religion: The iconic churches and cathedrals scattered across the country, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral in Mexico City and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, stand as architectural marvels, with around 85% of the population following the Catholic faith. Religion isn’t just a set of beliefs in Mexico; it shapes the bright festivals like Día de Muertos, celebrating the beauty of life.

Culture: From the vibrant hues of traditional folk art and the rhythm of mariachi bands to the centuries-old rituals woven into everyday life, Mexico’s cultural heritage is palpable. Wander through the awe-inspiring Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza or the charming colonial architecture of cities like Oaxaca. The country is filled with magnificent history! 

Why you should travel to Mexico

Embarking on a Mexican adventure is a journey that promises memories of a lifetime! Picture yourself on sun-soaked beaches, where you can leisurely sip on a margarita and soak up the laid-back vibes. The country’s culinary scene is a festival for your taste buds – think sizzling street tacos, zesty salsas, and refreshing guacamole. 

Delve into Mexico’s rich history by exploring one of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites or stroll through charming colonial streets where every building has a story to tell. And let’s not forget the breathtaking landscapes – from the turquoise waters of Holbox to the lush jungles and cenotes hiding ancient secrets. These are just a few of the best places in Mexico waiting to be discovered! 

Mexico has it all: mouth-watering food, cultural treasures, and breathtaking natural beauty. With unreal experiences awaiting every type of traveler, traveling Mexico deserves a prominent spot on your bucket list.

Safety and travel advice in Mexico

With its diverse landscapes and colorful cities, Mexico is a fantastic destination. But like any country, being well-informed is crucial for a safe trip. The following information provides a breakdown of essential safety tips to help visitors maximize their travels. 

Crime and safety in Mexico : Mexico has a reputation for crime. Still, it’s important to note that most travelers have a safe visit to the country, and many of the issues reported in the media tend to be off the beaten track. Stick to well-traveled, well-lit areas, keep valuables secure and out of sight, and always be vigilant of your surroundings. Engaging with the local culture is encouraged, but exercise the same caution you would in any unfamiliar destination.

Learn more about travel safety .

Natural Disasters: Mexico is susceptible to natural disasters, particularly hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes. Stay informed about weather conditions, register with your embassy to receive emergency updates during your trip, and always follow the local authority’s advice. 

Driving in Mexico: If you’re planning to rent a car or motorbike in Mexico, ensure you hire from a reputable rental agency, follow traffic rules, and be cautious of poorly maintained roads. If you take a taxi, use licensed vehicles from authorized taxi ranks or through your hotel, and ensure the meter is turned on before setting off. 

Tip: We recommend renting a car through Sunny Cars , as your insurance is included. 

Travel Insurance: Make sure to purchase comprehensive travel insurance before you embark on your travels in Mexico . This will protect you from unforeseen issues – for example, flight cancellations due to poor weather, lost baggage, or a hiking injury.

Find the best travel insurances .

Mexico Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Mexico travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Mexico is a beautiful and diverse country rich in history, natural beauty, and culture. Between its stunning beaches and bustling cities, it’s no wonder why Mexico is the 7th most visited country in the world.

While the beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula and the Pacific coast are definitely the country’s biggest draws, there’s a lot more to know about Mexico beyond the resorts. Throw out all those other travel guides because we’ve got you covered.

Wondering where to go in Mexico?

Start with the country’s capital of Mexico City. Aside from the historic sites you’ll find in any Mexico City guide, the city is home to an exciting and vibrant youth culture and art scene.

Great artists like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera have called Mexico City home for decades and now a new generation of up-and-coming creators fill the city’s many galleries. Check them out at institutions like the MUAC and the Jumex Museum.

Between visits, grab some of the city’s famous street food like tlacoyos, tacos, and tamales.

Mexico is also an incredible destination for adventurers and nature-lovers. The clear waters of the country’s coastal destinations offer plenty of opportunities to discover coral reefs and marine life through diving and snorkeling.

Hikers will also love the Sierra Madre Mountains on the west coast and the jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Moreover, there’s truly nothing like the Copper Canyon, 65,000 square kilometers (about 25,000 square miles) of hills perfect for exploring. You’ll also find some of the best hiking trails in the world here!

Copper Canyon is actually deeper and longer than the Grand Canyon , offering even more opportunities for activities. Fly through the canyons on one of the longest zip lines in the world at Copper Canyon Adventure Park or take a horseback ride to the base of Tararecua Canyon.

However you choose to enjoy Copper Canyon, it’s sure to take your breath away.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Mexico in North America .

Note: This ultimate guide to Mexico travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Holbox Island Travel Guides

Use this Mexico travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Mexico Travel Advice

Don’t miss guides and travel tips for Mexico! They’ll help you plan an unforgettable trip and have an amazing time traveling Mexico .

How To Start A New Life Abroad In Mexico

Is Mexico Safe? Intrepid Traveler Ally Jackson Fills Us In

14 Best Places To Travel Alone In Mexico

Baja California Sur Travel Guide

The following guides can help you plan an unforgettable trip to Baja!

Hiking In Baja California Sur: 6 Epic Trails Not To Miss

Mexico City Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Mexico City ? These guides can help!

Things To Do In Mexico City: Exploring Cuisine & Culture Beyond Avocados

Solo Travel In Mexico City: The Ultimate Guide

Mexico City Art Scene: Exploring Murals, Museums, Art Galleries & More

Puebla Travel Guide

These Puebla guides will help you plan the perfect Mexico travel itinerary !

12 Things You Didn’t Know About Puebla, Mexico

Puebla: A Safe Place To Explore Mexican Culture

Exploring Cantona In Puebla, The Largest Ancient City In Mexico

Puebla, Mexico: The World’s Only City To Make Talavera Ceramics

Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide

Looking for guides and travel tips for Puerto Vallarta ? Check out:

14 Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips For A Fun & Safe Trip (In-Depth Guide!)

Solo Travel In Puerto Vallarta: The Ultimate Guide

Yucatan Travel Guide

Looking for a travel Mexico guide focused on Yucatán? Here you go!

5 Active Ways To Explore Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula

Tulum Solo Travel Guide: How To Have An Amazing Trip On Your Own

3, 4 & 7 Day Cancun Itinerary (Best Things To Do!)

23 Best Things To Do In Holbox Island, Mexico (Sample Itinerary Included!)

6 Best Beaches In Holbox, Mexico (Stunning!)

15 Best Beach Clubs In Holbox Island, Mexico

Is Holbox Worth Visiting? What You Need To Know Before Booking

Best Time To Visit Holbox Island, Mexico

Best Mexico Tours

Explore local culture with a Mexico tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Chiche Itza & Cenote Full-Day Tour from Cancun
• Rio Secreto Underground River Tour with Crystal Caves in Riviera Maya from Quintana Roo
• Sumidero Canyon, Chiapa de Corzo Magical Town from San Cristóbal de las Casas
• Flavors of Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu and Local Market Tour from Oaxaca de Juárez
• Sian Ka’an UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Adventure from Tulum
• Guadalupe Valley Wine Route Tour in Baja California from Ensenada
• Outdoor Adventure Zip Line and Speedboat Ride from Puerto Vallarta

Renting A Car In Mexico

Need a rental car for your Mexico trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Public Transportation In Mexico

Getting around Italy by train, bus, or ferry?

Omio is a must! You can use this tool for all of your public transportation needs when traveling around Mexico.

The site is straightforward and user-friendly — and you can pre-book your tickets in advance at a discount.

They even offer flight and car deals!

Mexico Hotels

Click here to browse the best Mexico travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Mexico Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Mexico tour. When visiting Mexico — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Mexico travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Mexico Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Mexico .

Q: Which is the best month to visit Mexico?

As Mexico is a tropical country, it experiences dry and wet seasons.

During the dry season, which runs from December through April, you won’t run into too many showers and the temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit.

January and February tend to be a bit cooler but are still a great time to visit; the weather is nice and you’ll avoid the massive spring break crowds of March and April.

Keep in mind that Mexico is a huge country with a range of climates — so read up on what to expect in your specific destination before you go.

Q: Is Mexico cheap to travel?

Depending on how you choose to travel, your money will go far in Mexico. The average traveler spends about $58 USD per day in Mexico on accommodations, transportation, food, activities, and other travel expenses.

You’ll want to budget more if you choose to go the resort route but there are plenty of deals to be had, particularly if you’re traveling during the off-season.

Q: What are the best things to do in Mexico?

Mexico’s beaches on both shores are unmatched, from the brilliantly blue Caribbean waters of the east coast to the laid-back surfer vibes of the west coast.

Cancun, Riviera Maya, and the island of Cozumel are some of the top beach destinations in the world, offering wide shores and luxurious resorts perfect for relaxation.

These beaches are also just a short ride from some of the country’s most famous Maya ruins at Chichen Itza and Tulum, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore the country’s rich history while you soak up the sun. No Cancun travel itinerary would be complete without visiting these sites.

On the Pacific side, you can party it up on the glamorous beaches of Puerto Vallarta — which is also a top spot for solo travel — or head down to Cabo San Lucas on the Baja Peninsula for some excellent fishing, diving, and snorkeling. There are also some incredible Baja California Sur hiking trails .

The country’s capital of Mexico City is also a huge draw for travelers for its flourishing art scene, colonial buildings, and world-class museums.

Head to the city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to check out some incredibly well-preserved examples of colonial architecture like the National Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral as well as the Templo Mayor — the main temple of Tenochtitlan, the ancient Mexica city upon which Mexico City is built.

From markets to street food to innovative restaurants, Mexico City is an absolute foodie’s paradise and one of the top North America travel destinations .

Additionally, fans of Frida Kahlo should head to The Blue House, the artist’s former home that now houses a major collection of her work.

Along those lines, Mexico’s colonial cities are definitely worth a visit for their historic architecture and unique cultures.

In Guadalajara, you can sample some tequila in the place it was first created and then browse the Mercado Libertad, one of the biggest markets in Latin America. Make sure to also add visiting some artisanal tequila distilleries in Mexico to your itinerary.

In Puebla , you can explore the colorful art of Talavera ceramics and make your way through Cantona , once the largest city in ancient Mesoamerica.

And of course, you can’t miss Oaxaca, a city with incredible handicrafts, vibrant festivals, and a cuisine all its own.

Q: What are the do’s and don’ts in Mexico?

There are a fair amount of things to keep in mind before heading to Mexico.

When in Mexico, do:

– Learn a few Spanish phrases before your trip. While some folks may speak English in the major resort and metropolitan areas, it’s best not to assume that everyone you meet is fluent. Knowing a few simple phrases like how to ask where the bathroom is or how to order a meal will take you far.

– Wear sunscreen. The sun is strong throughout the country and you’ll need sun protection, particularly if you’re spending a lot of time outside or on the beach. Remember to reapply often and wear a hat for extra protection.

– Dress appropriately. Keep your daily activities in mind and make sure you’re wearing something comfortable, particularly if you have an active trip ahead of you. Do know that local people tend to dress more casually on the coasts while those in the cities dress a bit more conservatively. Pack with your itinerary in mind!

When in Mexico, don’t:

– Drink the tap water. In most places in Mexico, the water is not purified for drinking. You’ll need to invest in some bottled water in order to stay hydrated or bring a reusable water bottle with a built-in purifier. Any unwashed fruits and vegetables should also be avoided just to be safe.

– Exchange money at the airport. You will probably end up paying extra to do so, especially compared to ATM fees.

– Pet stray dogs. Yes, they’re very cute, and most of them are friendly, but some are less so and many carry germs that you probably don’t want to bring home. It’s best not to risk it.

Q: Is Mexico safe to travel?

Despite accounts of violence in the media, most travelers to Mexico don’t run into too much trouble during their trips. In fact, there are even great places to add to a Mexico solo travel itinerary .

That said, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to safety:

Petty crime like pickpocketing is fairly common, particularly in major tourist areas and airports, so knowing how to avoid pickpockets is important.

Don’t flaunt any obvious signs of wealth and keep any valuables locked away at your accommodation. Never carry anything valuable in your back pocket and don’t leave your bag slung over your chair at a restaurant.

It’s also important to always stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings. Most violent crime in Mexico doesn’t involve travelers but there are definitely things you can do to stay extra safe. Never hike alone in remote areas or in the ruins and only travel during the day, particularly if you’re driving.

Q: How long can a tourist stay in Mexico?

Most visitors from abroad can stay in Mexico for up to 180 days.

Q: Do I need a Mexico travel visa?

While it varies by country, travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, the EU, and several other countries do not need a visa to visit Mexico for a period of fewer than 180 days.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Mexico International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements. You can also contact the Consulate General of Mexico.

Q: Where is Mexico?

Mexico is located at the southern end of North America. It is bordered by the United States (north) as well as Central America (south), specifically Guatemala and Belize.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Mexico?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Mexico, mainly in tourist areas and large establishments. You should still carry cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Mexico?

As a general rule, you should not drink tap water in Mexico.

Q: What is the local currency in Mexico?

The local currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso (MXP).

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The home of tacos, Aztecs, sombreros and tequila, almost everyone on the planet knows something about Mexico. Yet there’s a lot more to this country beyond the stereotypes. One of the world’s great civilizations, Mexico travel offers a tantalizing blend of Mesoamerican cultures, Spanish traditions and contemporary arts.

Mexico travel facts

Where to go in mexico, best time to go to mexico.

• How to get to Mexico

How to get around Mexico

Best places to visit in mexico, itineraries for mexico, accommodation in mexico, food and drink in mexico, activities in mexico, travel visa requirements for mexico, mexico’s magnificent markets.

Its landscapes range from the shimmering blue coastline of Baja California and the cactus-strewn deserts of the north, to the Maya villages and palm-smothered beaches of the south. You can climb volcanoes, watch whales and tour agave farms. And sprinkled throughout you’ll find richly adorned colonial churches, giant pyramids and a sophisticated cuisine. Read our Mexico guide for everything you need to know before you go.

• Population: 122 million.
• Origins: Over 80 per cent of the population is mestizo, combining in themselves European and indigenous traditions with, to a greater or lesser extent, a veneer of urban sophistication.
• Size: 1.96 million sq km.
• Exports: Mexico is the home of chocolate (from the Náhuatl “ xocolatl ”), chillies and maize (corn), though it exports more tomatoes than any other crop (also derived from the Náhuatl word “ tomatl ”).
• Dog’s life: The Chihuahua is officially the world’s smallest breed of dog and really is named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua .
• Films: The opening scenes of Bond movie Spectre closed down central Mexico City’s Zócalo for 10 days and involved 1500 extras (mostly dressed as Day of the Dead revellers).
• Artistic heritage: Mexico lays claim to a range of home-spun talent, including Pancho Villa, Salma Hayek and Frida Kahlo.
• Culinary critters: Bugs have been culinary delicacies in Mexico since Aztec times, with some of the most popular cocopaches (a type of cockroach), chicatanas (flying ants) and escamoles (ant larvae and pupae).

Every trip to Mexico is unique and that's why it's essential to stay protected. With our go-to travel insurance provider, Heymondo , you get great value and 24/7 support wherever you are.

This incredibly diverse country stretches from the deserts and canyons of the north to the grand colonial cities of the centre and the Maya ruins, beaches and jungles of the south. Given the vast breadth of Mexico, it’s more sensible and rewarding to concentrate on one or two sections of the country when planning your travel. Here are some of the best places to visit in Mexico:

Mexico City

Mexico City , though a nightmare of urban sprawl, is totally fascinating, and the capital of the nation in every way – artistic, political, cultural. It is one of the world’s mega-cities, with over 25 million people occupying a shallow mountain bowl at over 2400m above sea level. Spreading out beyond the federal district which is supposed to contain it, the city is at once edgy and yet laid-back at the same time. Around the city lie the chief relics of the pre-Hispanic cultures of central Mexico: the massive pyramids of Teotihuacán and the main Toltec site at Tula.

East of Mexico City is the elegant city of Puebla , known for its colonial architecture and fine cuisine. The republic’s fifth-largest city is an easy 40-minute trip from Tlaxcala or a couple of hours by bus from Mexico City, with glorious views of snow-capped Popocatépetl and Ixtaccíhuatl on the way. Puebla has a remarkable concentration of sights, including a fabulous cathedral, a “hidden” convent, museums and grand mansions, while the mountainous surrounding country is in places startlingly beautiful.

To visitors, Tulum can mean several things. First, it’s one of the most picturesque of all the ancient Maya sites, poised on 15m-high cliffs above the Caribbean. Tulum also refers to a stretch of white beach, with turquoise water and candlelit cabañas. Finally, it’s a booming town (often called Tulum Pueblo to distinguish it from the beach) that has evolved from roadside waystation to real population centre with a thriving tourism core.

The state of Oaxaca is one of the most enticing places to visit in Mexico. The state capital, cosmopolitan yet utterly Mexican, encapsulates much of what the region has to offer. Nowhere else in the country are the fiestas so exuberant, the markets so colourful or the old languages still so widely spoken. There are indigenous traditions in the villages that long predate the Spanish Conquest; yet the city can also offer sophisticated modern dining, great accommodation and wild nightlife.

Acapulco and Pacific Coast

The journey north from Acapulco to Puerto Vallarta, some 800km along the Pacific coast, is defined by languid beach life at its finest. There’s history here, to be sure, but it’s the buttery sands studded with palms, the makeshift bars on the beach, lagoons and torpid villages that dominate. Separating these stretches of wild, untouched coastline are some of the most popular and enjoyable resorts in Mexico.

Few tourists venture over to the Gulf coast, despite the attractions of Veracruz and its mysterious ruins. A pity, as for music and general bonhomie, the city’s central plaza is one of the finest places to visit in Mexico. The fertile, tropical coastal plain gave rise to the earliest Mexican civilizations: Olmec culture thrived in southern Veracruz from 1200 BC, while Classic Veracruz flourished between 250 and 900 AD at centres such as El Tajín. Today, Huastec and Totonac culture remains strong in the north.

Independent travellers often find the glitz of Mexico’s mammoth resort city off-putting. Certainly, all the concrete can be a downer. But a night spent in Cancún doesn’t have to be wasted, so long as you appreciate the energetic city as a successful frontier experiment, rather than lament its lack of history. A closer look reveals hidden beach bars and inexpensive taco stands frequented by friendly cancunenses .

Playa del Carmen

Once a soporific fishing village where travellers camped out en route to Isla Cozumel, Playa del Carmen is now a hot spot with pretensions of being the next Miami Beach. Mexico City’s elite pop in to “Playa”, as do day-trippers from Cancún and passengers from cruise ships docked on Cozumel. The quieter north side is relatively cosmopolitan and calm, and the nightlife, in particular, has a hip edge.

Guadalajara

Mexico’s second city, easy-going Guadalajara is packed with elegant buildings and vibrant little squares. One thing no visitor should miss is hearing mariachi in its home town, specifically at the Plaza de Los Mariachis. Outside the city, the land is spectacularly green and mountainous, studded with volcanoes and lakes, most famously Laguna de Chapala.

Baja California

Graced with tantalizing desert landscapes, lush oases and rich marine life, Baja California is one of the most compelling places to visit in Mexico. Its human history is no less enticing, with a legacy of remote cave paintings, crumbling Spanish missions and fabulous seafood. Among the most magical sights in Baja is the annual grey whale migration from December to April. Spot the magnificent creatures at the Laguna Ojo de Liebre, just off Guerrero Negro, or the lagoon near San Ignacio.

Yucatán Peninsula

In the Yucatán, traditional indigenous life sits side by side with massive tourist attractions such as the great ruins of Chichén Itzá and the super-resort of Cancún. Once the province of Maya rebels and palm-plantation owners, the Caribbean coast is now the so-called Riviera Maya, which includes the towns of Playa del Carmen and Tulum. But beyond these big centres, you’ll discover underground springs known as cenotes to the north, along with flocks of flamingo and sea turtles along the coast.

Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá is the most famous, the most extensively restored and by far the most visited of all Maya sites. It lies conveniently along the main highway from Mérida to Cancún , a little more than 200km from the Caribbean coast. Arrive early to wander in relative peace around the extraordinary ruins, with its vertiginous temple, Chac-mool figures and dramatic, snail-shaped observatory.

North Mexico

Rich in legends of the country’s revolutionary past, Mexico’s north has a modern history dominated by its relationship with the neighbouring United States. Though the region is far less visited than the southern states, cross-border trade – as much about the movement of people as goods – means it’s one of the most dynamic parts of Mexico. It’s not all business, though. Rugged and untamed, the north is home to deserts, mountains, seedy frontier towns, archeological remains and modern cities, as well as a rich ranching culture.

Discover more places in Mexico

• The north Travel Guide
• Copper Canyon and Around Travel Guide
• Oaxaca Travel Guide
• The Bajío Travel Guide
• The Yucatán Travel Guide
• Veracruz Travel Guide
• Chiapas Travel Guide

Mexico is a year-round destination, with most visitors sticking on the whole to the highlands in summer and the coasts in winter. June to October is generally the rainy season, though the intensity of rainfall varies from place to place. Late winter is the traditional tourist season; December through to April the busiest months. November is probably the best time to visit Mexico, with the rains over, the land still fresh and the peak season not yet begun.

Read our guide on the best time to visit Mexico .

It is possible to travel to Mexico overland from the US via train, bus or car, though be prepared for long and often uncomfortable journeys. It is much quicker and easier to get to Mexico by plane. There are plenty of direct and connecting flights from major cities in North America into Mexico City and other popular resorts. Canada is not as well connected as the US, though Air Canada and Aeroméxico serve Mexico City. Several direct flights run to Mexico City and Cancún from London , Birmingham and Manchester , though you will have to change planes if you fly from anywhere else in the UK or Ireland. The same applies to passengers flying to Mexico from Australia, New Zealand or South Africa. Read our full guide on how to get to Mexico .

Bear in mind Mexico is a large country, and journeys between key destinations can be very long. Although public transport is frequent and reasonably efficient everywhere, taking an internal flight at least once may be worthwhile for the time it saves. If you’re travelling around Mexico on a budget, buses are your best bet. Only a couple of tourist train routes exist: the Copper Canyon railway in Chihuahua and the Tequila Express from Guadalajara. Ferries connect Baja California with the Pacific mainland, and smaller boats serve islands off the coasts. Driving in Mexico requires care, but renting a car is often an extremely good way of quickly seeing a small area that would otherwise take days to explore using public transport. Read more travel advice on how to travel around Mexico .

• Cenotes of Yucatán . Vast sun-lit caverns filled with water, the cenotes of northern Yucatán are magical places for a refreshing dip. X’keken and Samula are two of the best.
• Acapulco’s cliff divers . Watch the clavadistas plunge into the sea from precipitous cliffs.
• Chichén Itzá . The most famous of the Maya cities, the sprawling ruins and complex carvings will take a couple of days to explore.
• Tulum . This important Maya spiritual and cultural centre is one of the most picturesque, with a spectacular beach.
• Tequila . Visit the town that gave birth to Mexico’s favourite tipple, surrounded by fields of blue agave, and enjoy tours of local distilleries.
• Baja Whale watching . From December to April, thousands of grey whales come to mate in the lagoons of Guerrero Negro and San Ignacio.
• Real de Catorce . This picturesque ghost-town once thrived on the wealth of its silver mines. Huichol pilgrims visit the nearby desert in search of peyote.
• Museo Frida Kahlo . Politics, art and national identity combine at the home of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.
• Diving . The pristine islands and shimmering reefs just off the Pacific Coast are prime diving destinations.
• Lago de Pátzcuaro . Most famous for its Day of the Dead celebrations, this enchanting lake is a worthy destination year-round.
• Oaxaca markets . Any market in Mexico is a feast for the senses, but Oaxaca’s are especially vibrant, with everything from fresh produce to some of the country’s most imaginative textiles.
• Street eats . Sample tortas and tacos at street food stalls and stands clustered along the pavements of Mexico City .
• Xochimilco . Take in the carnival atmosphere and colours while being punted around the canals and serenaded by mariachi bands at the Mexico City suburb of Xochimilco.
• Driving Hwy-1 . One of the world’s greatest road journeys, driving from the US border to the southern tip of Baja California takes you through deserts, isolated mountain ranges and tropical beach towns.
• Lucha libre in Mexico City . Watched masked heroes and villains partake in fantastical wrestling ( lucha libre ) competitions, held in over a dozen venues throughout the capital.

We’ve expanded our Mexico travel guide to include an example of our Tailor-Made Trips service. These Mexico itineraries will take you to every corner of the country – and you’ll learn plenty about Mexico no matter where you want to go or what you want to do. You’re unlikely to complete the list, but it will give you a flavour of how to travel around Mexico and a deeper insight into the country’s natural and historic wonders. Below is a sample itinerary, ideal for the first-time visitor to Mexico, but you can see all our itineraries here .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Mexico, created by local experts

17 days  / from 1590 USD

The Magic of the Yucatan and Mexico City

Explore the magic of the Yucatan Peninsula: from colonial towns like Merida to Archaeological sites like Uxmal and Calakmul, close to the Guatemala border, to beaches in Bacalar and Tulum, this itinerary shows you the real Yucatan before heading out to explore Mexico City.

15 days  / from 1430 USD

Mexico City, Oaxaca & the Yucatan

Explore Central Mexico with its ever-busy capital Mexico City, visiting Teotihuacan and the famous museums in the city. Further on to Oaxaca City, the gateway to the Archaeological Site Monte Alban. Afterwards, continue to the white beaches of the Yucatan: Cancun and Isla Holbox await.

18 days  / from 1735 USD

Fascinating Mexico: From Guanajuato to the Yucatan

Discover Mexico from fascinating San Miguel de Allende over busy Mexico City all the way to the Yucatan Peninsula. This itinerary combines public transportation with domestic flights to ensure you can make the most of discovering fascinating Mexico within two weeks.

Itinerary 1: Classic Mexico

This three-week tour focuses on the southern and central parts of the country, traditionally the most popular targets for independent travellers.

Soak up the museums, murals and markets of the nation’s crazy, high-octane capital, leaving a couple of days for Cholula and Teotihuacán.

Head to Mexico’s most enticing state, its capital the best place to sample mole, mescal and indigenous crafts.

• Zapotec and Mixtec heartland After the obligatory visit to Monte Albán, spend two to three days exploring the indigenous markets and lesser-known ruins around Oaxaca .

Heading east into Chiapas this colonial city is worth at least two days, plus a day or two to take in the remarkable Maya villages nearby.

Heading north, these are some of the grandest jungle-smothered Maya ruins in the country, all easily accessible.

From Palenque you can strike out into the Lacandón Maya heartland and these more isolated, romantic ruins.

Hit the Caribbean coast for the spectacular diving from this offshore island.

Back on the Yucatán mainland enjoy the balmy beaches and nightlife of the Riviera Maya.

End your trip by soaking up Mexico’s most magical Maya ruins followed by a dip in the cooling waters of a giant sinkhole.

Finding accommodation in Mexico is rarely difficult. In areas that are not overly touristy, the inexpensive places to stay are usually concentrated around the main plaza (the zócalo). Others tend to be near the market, train station or bus station. In bigger cities, you’ll find the cheaper accommodation clustered in a relatively small area. The more modern and expensive places often lie on the outskirts of towns, accessible only by car or taxi. The only times you’re likely to have problems finding somewhere to stay for your Mexico trip are in coastal resorts over the peak Christmas season, at Easter, on Mexican holidays and almost anywhere during a local fiesta, when it’s well worth trying to reserve ahead.

Food in Mexico bears very little resemblance to the concoctions served in “Mexican” restaurants in other parts of the world – you certainly won’t find chile con carne outside the tourist spots. Nor, as a rule, is it especially spicy. The basic Mexican diet is essentially one of corn (maíz as a crop, elote when eaten), supplemented by beans and chiles. These three things appear in an almost infinite variety of guises. Traditionally, lunch is the main meal of the day, taken around 2pm or later. Eating a large meal at lunch time is a money-saver – almost every restaurant serves a cut-price comida corrida (daily-changing set meal).

As delicious as most Mexican cuisine is, there are some slightly more unusual additions , like corn smut fungus, or huitlacoche (“sleeping excrement”). Yum!

A great deal of coffee is produced in Mexico, and you’ll be served superb coffee in the growing areas, especially Veracruz , as well as in the traditional coffeehouses in the capital. On any visit to Mexico, you have to try the country’s most famous spirit, tequila, distilled from the cactus-like agave plant in Jalisco and usually taken with lime and salt.

Read our full guide to food and drink in Mexico .

Visit Mexico and you’ll be rewarded with long-standing cultural traditions, such as the popular spectator sports of bullfighting and lucha libre (masked wrestling). For action, the pristine coastline offers sea-based adventures galore, from surfing on the Pacific coast to snorkelling and diving offshore islands.

Football and Baseball

Mexico’s chief spectator sport is soccer ( fútbol ). Mexican teams have not been notably successful on the international stage, but going to a game can still be a thrilling experience. The capital and Guadalajara are the best places to see a match. Baseball ( béisbol ) is also popular, as is American football (especially on TV). Jai alai (also known as frontón , or pelota vasca ) is Basque handball, common in big cities and played at a very high speed with a small hard ball and curved scoop attached to the hand; it’s a big gambling game.

Rodeos and bullfights

Mexican rodeos (charreadas), mainly seen in the north of the country, are as spectacular for their style and costume as they are for the events. Bullfights remain an obsession, with every city home to a bullring – Mexico City’s Plaza México is the world’s largest. The country’s toreros are said to be the world’s most reckless, much in demand in Spain.

Lucha libre

Masked wrestling (lucha libre) is very popular in Mexico, too. During this curious sport, the participants, Batman-like, are out of the game for good should their mask be removed and their secret identity revealed.

Originating in Mexico, mariachi bands comprise a mix of violinists, trumpeters and guitarists, headed up by a vocalist. You’ll find mariachi played the length and breadth of the country but most notably in Mexico City’s Plaza Garibaldi. Here, bands compete for your attention in a frenzy of music and singing.

Diving, snorkelling and surfing

Diving and snorkelling are big on the Caribbean coast, with world-famous dive sites at Cozumel and on the reefs further south. Over on the Pacific coast is something of a centre for surfing, despite few facilities as yet, though you can rent surfboards in major tourist centres such as Acapulco and Mazatlán . Nonetheless, plenty of Californian surfers follow the weather south over the winter, crowding the waves at Baja California, Oaxaca and Lázaro Cárdenas in Michoacán .

Travel advice for Mexico

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Mexico

• Visa and entry requirements Mexico
• Crime and personal safety tips Mexico
• Eating and drinking in Mexico
• Getting around Mexico: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Mexico for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Mexico

Despite soaring crime rates and dismal-sounding statistics, you are unlikely to run into trouble in Mexico if you stick to well-travelled paths. Even in Mexico City, which has a dangerous reputation , the threat is not that much greater than in many large North American and European cities. Obviously there are areas in cities where you wander alone, or at night, at your peril; the best precaution is common sense.

Some basic Mexico travel tips include avoid hailing a cab in the street in Mexico City (phone for a radio cab instead); don’t leave cash or cameras in hotel rooms (use the safe), and never leave valuables visible in your car. Drug offences are the most common cause of serious trouble between tourists and the authorities, and if you’re caught with quantities reckoned to be for distribution you can wave goodbye to daylight for a long time.

Read our guide for more travel advice for Mexico.

Citizens of the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and most EU countries do not need visas to enter Mexico as tourists for less than 180 days. Other Europeans can stay for ninety days. Non-US citizens travelling via the US, however, may need a US visa, even if they will only be in the country in transit. Citizens of the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and most Western European countries can enter under the Visa Waiver Program . South African citizens need to obtain a visa. Visit the website of the US embassy in your country of residence for further details.

Read our Mexico guide for more information on entry requirements .

Top image: The Zocalo in Mexico City with the cathedral © dubassy/Shutterstock

The colour and bustle of Mexico’s markets is hard to beat. Even if you’ve no intention of buying, half an hour is always well spent meandering through narrow aisles surrounded by heaps of perfectly ripe fruit and stacks of nopal cactus leaves (though stay away from the meat sections if you’re at all squeamish). In small villages, like those around Oaxaca, inhabitants still recognize one day of the week as the traditional market day.

Towns of any size will have a market, usually daily, an important centre of local life and source of cheap eats (San Cristóbal de las Casas and Papantla are good examples), while in the cities, each barrio has its own vibrant mercado: among the best are Mexico City’s La Merced and the arts and crafts-oriented Ciudadela. Markets in San Miguel Allende are also better known for arts and crafts, as are Oaxaca’s city mercados . Toluca is the mother of them all, Mexico’s largest market held every Friday.

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written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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Best places to visit in mexico for 2023-2024.

With year-round warm weather and diverse destinations ranging from metropolitan Mexico City to the sands of Tulum, Mexico boasts vacation spots that appeal to all sorts of visitors. To help you determine which locale is best for you, U.S. News compiled this list of the best places to visit in Mexico by factoring in cultural attractions, food options, beaches, water-based activities and nightlife, along with traveler votes and expert opinions. Vote for your favorite vacation spots below to help us determine next year's ranking. (Note: The U.S. Department of State advises against traveling to certain Mexican states due to crime; check the  website  for updates before booking your trip, and be cautious if you decide to travel.)

Zihuatanejo

Isla mujeres, isla holbox, mexico city, playa del carmen.

Located on Mexico's Pacific coast, Zihuatanejo offers travelers an authentic Mexico experience full of brilliant sunsets and laid-back vibes. In this fishing village, shopaholics can buy local handicrafts (think: ceramics and woodcarvings), and foodies can savor fresh fish tacos and ceviche along the beach. The city's Playa La Ropa serves as the main beach and stands out because of its clean, family-friendly atmosphere. Playa Larga, another excellent beach option, is set slightly outside of town, so it offers a quieter atmosphere and plenty of room to sprawl out. Just off the coast, divers and snorkelers can pick from several dive sites brimming with marine life.

Home to Mexico's most famous waterfront Mayan ruins, Tulum appeals to history buffs and water lovers alike. Positioned along a coastal stretch of the Riviera Maya, about 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen, Tulum offers some of the best hotels in Mexico , ranging from small boutique hotels to wellness retreats to all-inclusive resorts. Regardless of where you stay, you can spend time lounging on some of the world's most beautiful beaches (try traveler-approved Playa Paraíso or Playa Ruinas), exploring ancient ruins (consider booking a daytrip to nearby Chichén Itzá for a larger-scale site) and swimming in secluded cenotes, unique underwater caves located around the Yucatán Peninsula.

This island is probably best known for two things: coral reefs and cruise ships. Travelers love this destination's brilliant blue water and laid-back beaches, plus its abundance of water sports activities. Numerous outfitters and resorts offer kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling gear. While you could spend every minute in the water or on the beach with a good book, Cozumel is also a quiet place to learn about Mayan culture. Visit the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio archaeological site for a dose of pre-Hispanic history.

Ixtapa's curved coastline is packed with hotels, restaurants and nightlife, giving the Pacific coast city (located just north of Zihuatanejo) a bustling vibe. Playa El Palmar, the main beach, often proves better for sunset strolls and people-watching than swimming or snorkeling due to the strong waves. Still, warm, clear and generally gentle water and coral beds farther offshore make Ixtapa one of the best places for beginner scuba enthusiasts. Anyone interested in the area's history should also explore the Archaeological Museum of the Costa Grande, a small museum that details the various cultures and events that make the region unique. 

A great option for a weekend stay or a quick daytrip tour , Isla Mujeres is set off the coast of Cancún and offers beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and coral reefs ready for exploration. In fact, it's one of the best places to go snorkeling in the world thanks to a unique underwater museum and one of the world's largest coral reefs (home to all sorts of colorful fish). See marine life from another perspective on a glass bottom boat. When you want to catch some rays, Playa Norte is the most popular beach, framed by white sand, turquoise water and swaying palm trees.

Quiet beaches, a relaxed atmosphere and stunning crystal-clear water are some of Isla Holbox's standout attributes. This up-and-coming slice of paradise is perfect for travelers looking to truly get away from it all, thanks to its car-free, off-the-beaten-path location. Isla Holbox is situated off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula and only 26 miles long. Expect quaint boutique hotels, stretches of white sand beaches (Playa Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito are two top spots), opportunities for snorkeling and sailing, and more than 100 species of birds, including vibrantly colored flamingoes.

About 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a small beach town known for awesome surfing conditions and scenic stretches of sand. If you've never surfed before, sign up for a lesson from a local to learn. Visitors can also go whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, horseback riding or zip lining, or hop on a relaxing boat tour. After a day of fun in the sun, head into town to check out the local art galleries and grab a bite to eat at one of the tasty restaurants (Sayulita is a burgeoning foodie destination), which feature everything from cheap eats to fine dining.

Anglers recognize Manzanillo as a world-class deep-sea fishing destination for anyone searching for sailfish and marlin, but many types of travelers will enjoy a trip to this Pacific coast destination, located 170 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. The city's two bays mean there is no shortage of beaches for visitors to swim and sunbathe on: Top spots include Playa la Audiencia and Playa Salagua. Water sports like snorkeling and kayaking are also popular activities to enjoy here. If you have time, visit the small town of Barra de Navidad (about 30 miles northwest) for charming hotels, restaurants and stores along the beach. 

Dreamy white sand , nightclubs, all-inclusive resorts and inexpensive flights from the U.S. make Cancún a go-to spot for spring breakers and vacationers seeking an easy beach getaway. But this city on the Yucatán Peninsula also sits close to lush jungles and tranquil cenotes, making it an excellent option for nature lovers. Not to mention, travelers will find diverse and cheap street food served from various carts in the downtown area. Visiting in fall or winter will ensure you see this city (one of the most-visited spots in Mexico) in its most tranquil light, but December through April is when the weather is closest to perfect.

Ornate baroque and neoclassical buildings, busy plazas and colorful homes are everywhere you turn in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city. Guanajuato, situated about 50 miles west of San Miguel de Allende, is known for its subterranean streets and tunnels, which you can explore on a walking tour or at your own leisure. After admiring the city's cobblestone roadways and charming colonial architecture, grab a souvenir or bite to eat at the bustling Mercado Hidalgo. If you enjoy art, arrive in October when the popular Festival Internacional Cervantino takes place.

As the capital of Yucatán, Mérida's rich culture is visible around every turn. White stone mansions line Paseo de Montejo (the city's main street), while vibrant Sunday markets provide a taste of old-world Mexico. Those looking for Mayan ruins are also in luck; many ancient archaeological sites are in close proximity, including the famed Chichén Itzá just 75 miles east. Meanwhile, museum and art enthusiasts praise El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida, as well as the city's art galleries and local murals. When it comes to lodging, travelers will have their pick of quaint boutique hotels.

The most populous city in Mexico is steeped in history and culture. Mexico City boasts delectable cuisine, ancient Aztec sites and world-class hotels – all at fairly low costs – but if you feel like splurging, you'll find an array of high-end shops along the tree-lined Avenida Presidente Masaryk in the Polanco neighborhood. Must-see attractions in Mexico City include the Zócalo, the Palace of Fine Arts, Chapultepec Castle and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. And if you want to eat your way through the city, consider signing up for a food tour .

For a vacation packed with authentic character, head to Puebla. This city, which sits about 80 miles southeast of Mexico City, is filled with colonial architecture and numerous churches, but its main draws are its stunning Talavera pottery, its historical forts and museums, and its sweet and spicy cuisine. Visitors must try mole poblano (made with numerous ingredients, including chiles, meat, chocolate, cinnamon and garlic) and chiles en nogada (chiles stuffed with beef and served with a walnut sauce and fruit like peaches, apples and pomegranate seeds). When the sun sets, venture to Callejón de los Sapos to listen to live music.

Playa del Carmen boasts an exciting food scene, with eateries dishing out everything from delectable tacos and tostadas to sushi and expertly cooked seafood, plus an even hipper bar culture. What's more, this destination in the Riviera Maya beckons to vacationers with its soft white sand blanketing its beaches and its stunning shoreline views. Visitors can also bike to a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip or hit the links at one of the numerous surrounding golf courses. All-inclusive resorts , vacation rentals and boutique properties abound in Playa del Carmen, too, giving travelers plenty of options to find the best fit for their preferences and budgets.

This secluded vacation spot is known for its luxurious lodging options (from vacation rentals to high-end hotels like the St. Regis and the Four Seasons), golf courses and charming beaches, such as El Anclote and Playa de Punta Mita. The small resort village of Punta Mita sits on a peninsula in Banderas Bay and most appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing atmosphere. Those interested in scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and surfing will be able to enjoy those activities here as well. If you're visiting between December and March, book a whale watching tour for a chance to see humpback or orca whales.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Puerto Vallarta

Cabo San Lucas

San Miguel de Allende

Guadalajara

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Ultimate MEXICO Travel Guide

Mexico is a country located in North America .  While most people think of drug cartels and Caribbean beaches when they think of this country, it actually has so much more to offer. It’s literally one of our favorite countries in the world and this Mexico travel guide is going to show you why.

Mexico City (Distrito Federal – D.F) is the capital of this country known for vibrant culture, great food, mayan/aztec ruins and tequila!

Words cannot really express how much we adore Mexico as a destination. From the powder-white beaches of the Yucatan to the cultural history of its great capital, Mexico is a wonder for all types of travelers and despite the travel warnings for the border areas, most of Mexico is perfectly safe for tourists and travelers.

It’s a country that will always hold a special place to us because it is the very first country we ever visited together!

Destinations

Mexico travel: quick tips, don’t visit mexico without:.

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

MEXICO BUCKET LIST

Sail the sea of cortez.

If you like to get away from it all this  Baja Mexico cruise  is for you. Small adventure ships sail from  La Paz , heading as far north as Loreto, visiting many islands & bays throughout the Sea of Cortez. 

TEOTIHUACAN PYRAMIDS

Rivaling the Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, the  pyramids of Teotihuacan  are impressive structures to visit. Located just outside of Mexico City, this massive site allows you to climb the pyramids too.

EXPLORE CENOTES

The entire Yucatan Peninsula sits atop a massive freshwater cave system. Sacred to the Mayans, access caves to this system is through cenotes. It is possible to visit them in the  Riviera Maya . 

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN MEXICO

There is no shortage of great things to do in Mexico during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary.

Each city has it’s own offering and unique things to check out during a visit, so be sure to look at our city guides once you decide where you’re itinerary will take you.

SWIM WITH WHALE SHARKS IN CANCUN:   While there are plenty of places to  swim with whale sharks  in the world, Mexico is one of the best from a conservation standpoint. Every year they migrate off the shores of Isla Holbox, making access possible from Cancun and the Riviera Maya.

GET LOCAL IN COMALA:  Get into the roots of Mexico as a country and head for some smaller towns that are off the beaten path, such as Colima and Comala. These towns feature old-style Spanish architecture, leftover from the colonizing years. But they are only Spanish in architecture as Mexican culture emanates from every corner. Discovering places like Comala is one of our favorite things to do in Mexico.

VISIT A SEA TURTLE HATCHERY IN MANZANILLO:  If you’ve ever wanted to learn about sea turtle conservation and visit a place that does things right, then heading to the hatchery in  Manzanillo  is a worthwhile trip. The hatchery protects miles of beach on the Pacific Ocean where large populations of sea turtles return annually to lay eggs.

WATCH GREY WHALES IN MAGDALENA BAY:  One of the best whale watching experiences in the world can be found in the sleepy coastal area of Magdalena Bay on the Pacific side of the Baja Peninsula. It is here that migrant grey whales come annually to calf in the shallow protected waters. This makes the watching spectacular.

TAKE A KAYAK TRIP AROUND ISLA ESPIRITU SANTO:  An UNESCO World Heritage Site,  Isla Espiritu Santo  is one of Mexico’s most precious gems. Located in the Sea of Cortez and accessible from the Baja Peninsula, the best way to explore this island is by kayak. With its designation, it is operated as a national park, with designated camping areas that can be used by registered companies. Circumnavigating the island takes 9 days, but it is possible to book shorter trips fro  kayaking in Mexico  too.

GO DEEP SEA FISHING IN COZUMEL:  Due to the location of the open waters of the Caribbean, the channel between Cozumel and the Yucatan and the Great Mayan Reef, the waters off the coast of Cozumel are some of the best in the Caribbean for deep-sea fishing. Charter a boat and head out for a day you won’t soon forget.

SEE ALL THE MAYAN RUINS IN THE YUCATAN:  Serving as the home to the indigenous Mayan population, the Yucatan Peninsula is a living history capsule of a lost civilization. Extensive road systems, cities and pyramids continue to stand today in ruins at sites such as Chitzen Itza, Tulum and Coba all across the area. Rent a car and head off into the jungles to learn more about the Mayans and see their impressive architecture.

ATTEND THE BALLET FOLKLORICO:  Performed on a weekly schedule at the Ballet de Bella Artes in the heart of the historical downtown of Mexico City is the wildly entertaining Ballet Folklorico. This show presents the history of Mexico through performance and music. If that isn’t enough, one of the last remaining Tiffany stage curtains exists on the stage. That alone is worth the visit.

FIND ALL THE DIEGO RIVERA MURALS IN MEXICO CITY:  One of the most famous painters of all time and the husband of the famed Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera has left his mark all over the sprawling metropolis of Mexico City. You can find his famous pieces while touring many of the other sites, but also in random places as well. If you love history and art, set yourself on a mission to find them all.

SCUBA DIVE OR SNORKEL ON THE GREAT MAYAN REEF:  The second largest reef system in the world, the Great Mayan Reef, starts off the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula and runs all the way to  South America . This means you have direct access for both snorkeling and scuba diving trips from Cancun,  Playa del Carmen  and the rest of the Riviera Maya during a visit. Don’t hesitate, it’s a wonderful way to spend a day.

CELEBRATE DIA DE MUERTOS IN OAXACA:  While you will find celebrations for the Day of the Dead happening all across Mexico, with the biggest being in Mexico City, it is in Oaxaca that you’ll get to the roots of the famed holiday. Celebrated annually on November 1 & 2, this day is a celebration of all of your loved ones that have passed on. The Mexican heritage celebrates with lavish costumes and skeleton-esque face paintings. It’s a sight to behold and one of the best festivals in the world to attend.

FOODIE BUCKET LIST

Mexican food is well renowned across the world, and no travel to Mexico is complete without plenty of time spent eating.

Remember though, that burritos and fajitas are not real Mexican food, but Tex-Mex, although you can find this type of food anywhere that you can’t find tourists.

Locals will eat  Tacos ,  Tortas  (sandwiches),  Quesadillas  and many more delights. You can find soups such as  Pozole , plenty of beans and rice, and of course, a lot of  Mole sauce  and  chiles .

Each region has its own specialties, so be open-minded when it comes to trying new Mexican food.

MEXICAN FESTIVALS

Mexico is a country that seems to constantly be celebrating something. Every week of the year, perhaps even every day, there’s a Fiesta in at least one town or city somewhere in Mexico.

SAINT DAY:  Every Barrio has its own Saint Day, and these are lively and vibrant celebrations, which can involve everything from fireworks and free food to bulls charging down the streets.

FIESTAS:  The biggest fiestas are found around Easter, with Semana Santa being the most important religious festival of the year, followed of course by Christmas, and the day that celebrates the Guadalupe Virgin.

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS:  Another famous event that’s a must-see in Mexico, is the Day of the Dead. Held at the end of October this important event is a celebration of life and death when locals remember the deceased and dress in macabre costumes.

DISCOVER THE BEST OF MEXICO!

Popular regions in mexico.

Mexico’s most famous tourist destination is Cancun. Home to sprawling beaches, resorts, bars, and restaurants, this is the place for anyone looking for a traditional Caribbean vacation. Stay in luxury in Cancun, or head to more boutique stays along the Mayan Riviera, at places like Tulum. There’s a lot in the surrounding area and you can explore the Mayan Ruins at Chichen Itza or head to Cozumel Island for great diving and snorkeling. The rest of the Yucatan Peninsula is also a beautiful place to travel. Visit overlooked Merida, one of the most diverse cities in Mexico, and explore ancient Mayan Ruins that have yet to be overrun with tourists. There are secluded beaches, humid jungles, and spectacular freshwater Cenotes waiting for you here.

Oaxaca is one of the most intriguing destinations for any Mexico travel itinerary and is often referred to as the cultural epicenter of the country.  Home to a large indigenous population, this is the place to learn about the complex history of Mexico and how that intertwines with the indigenous cultures.  It is also home to the best Dia de Los Muertos Celebrations, a fall holiday that honors the dead through celebration. Drink Mezcal, visit the beaches of Puerto Escondido, or just hang out in Oaxaca City.

CENTRAL MEXICO

The capital city is a great addition to any Mexico travel itinerary. Often overlooked in favor of the southern beaches or Pacific coastline, Mexico City is a bustling melting pot of history and culture. Explore the Aztec temples of Teotihuacan, visiting the canals and waterways of Xochimilco, and delve into the enormous expanse of artifacts collected in the huge Museum of Anthropology. Around Mexico City, you can find some of the most interesting additions to your Mexico travel plans. In the highlands, you can visit beautiful towns and cities such as Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende. Explore old colonial towns, learn about Mexican history and enjoy the cooler climes at higher altitudes.

PACIFIC COAST

Mexico’s Pacific Coast is famously known for the beachside resort towns of Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco, Mazatlan, and Nuevo Vallarta. These are all great destinations if you are looking for a beach getaway.   But don’t be afraid to look further afield at places off the beaten track, such as Colima, Comala, Manzanillo, and Jalisco. Jalisco state is home to Mexico’s second-largest city, Guadalajara. This sprawling metropolis has a charming historic center, and it’s also where you can ride the Tequila Express Train to visit the town of Tequila.

BAJA CALIFORNIA

Baja California is one of the best destinations on the Pacific Coast. Centered around Cabo or  La Paz , you can enjoy beautiful beaches and vacation homes in the sun. Much like the Yucatan, the areas of Cabo San Lucas and Los Cabos are well developed for tourism. You can find full-blown tourist towns and a wide selection of sprawling all-inclusive resorts to choose from too. For a quieter experience, you’ll want to head north to La Paz, a small local city that is the gateway to exploring the Sea of Cortez and its islands, such as  Isla Espiritu Santo . The diving is excellent and between October and March, you even have the chance to swim with Whale Sharks here.

MEXICO TRAVEL BUDGET

Setting a budget for travel to Mexico is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere in Mexico on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations for travel within Mexico. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

ACCOMMODATION:  Costs can be relatively inexpensive throughout Mexico and there is a huge range of options. If you’re looking for  resorts and all-inclusive  hotels, then head to Cancun. Travel in low season and you can find a bargain. In cities such as Mexico City, you can find great  hotels  in Central locations for USD 20 per person per night, and  hostels  for half that price.

ATTRACTIONS : Costs vary, but in touristy destinations, they aren’t as cheap as you might be expecting. For instance,  scuba diving  in Cancun can cost as much as 100 USD a dive (compare this to Roatan, in the Caribbean, where you can dive for 20 USD a tank).  Guided tours  are also relatively expensive given the low cost of living and you can expect to pay around USD 100 per person for a day tour, or even a food tour in Mexico City.  Museums  are generally cheap though, except the most famous sights such as Chichen Itza or the Frida Kahlo House.

TRANSPORTATION:  Mexico is a big country, but well connected by buses and flights. Flights can often cost less than long-distance buses if booked in advance. A  flight  from Cancun to Mexico City can be as little as 40 USD if booked ahead of time, whereas a bus will cost 100 USD and take 20 hours. On shorter routes,  buses  are great value though. Cancun to Merida, a four-hour journey, will cost around 20 USD on a first-class bus.  Public transport  in cities is incredibly cheap, and the Mexico City metro only costs 20 cents per ride, for instance.

FOOD:  Food is also inexpensive, especially if you’re willing to eat like the locals. You can pick up  street food  like a Torta or a plate of Tacos for around 1 USD while a  Corona beer  is also only going to set you back a dollar.  Sit-down restaurants  are more expensive, but still, great value compared to other countries such as the USA. You can expect to pay 10 USD per person for a meal, including a drink or two.

25 USD PER DAY

Stick to hostels, public transport, eat street tacos and only enjoy only a few free to cheap activities and museums.

50 USD PER DAY

Stay in a private hotel room or vacation rental. Eat both street food and restaurant food, lots of museums, attractions and day trips.

200 USD + PER DAY

Staying in high-end resorts in Cancun. Restaurant meals or all-inclusive. Lots of cocktails, lots of activities and tours.

WHERE TO STAY IN MEXICO

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in Mexico. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

For more specific advice, check out Best Area to Stay in Mexico City – Best Hotels & Travel Tips

HOW TO GET AROUND IN MEXICO

Don’t underestimate the sheer size of Mexico when you’re planning your Mexico travel itinerary. Don’t try and plan too much, as it can take time to travel between regions.

For shorter journeys, you can take collectivos or local minibusses and share taxis. In many cities, you can now use Uber, although not everywhere.

FLIGHTS:  The easiest way to travel long distances is to fly. Regional airlines such as Volaris and Interjet offer cheap deals and cover most of the country. Travel time between Cancun and Mexico City is 2 hours when flying, and between Mexico City and Chihuahua is also 2 hours.

BUS:  The bus network is extensive and efficient, with different classes ranging from third class local buses through to first-class luxury buses. On the coast, you may néed to take boats and ferries, from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel Island, for instance.

CAR RENTAL:  It is common to rent a car in well-developed tourist places, such as the Yucatan or Cozumel. This can make it easier to explore the many towns and cenotes that dot the area. Outside of here, however, it is not as commonplace. Check out  Discover Rental Cars  for great deals.

TRAIN:  There is only one passenger train route, the Copper Canyon train in the north, so overland travel will be by bus.

CRUISING:  Visiting Mexico by cruise is popular, although it limits your exploration to the coast. This said, most major cruise companies make stops at Cozumel, the Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco and Cabo. So it can be a good way to see a lot of Mexico’s most famous cities. You can also take a  small ship adventure cruise in the Sea of Cortez .

TOP MEXICO TOURS

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9 Days from Playa del Carmen Highlights: Hiking, Beaches, Ruins, Culture & Kayaking

CULTURAL MEXICO – NAT GEO

9 Days from Mexico City Highlights: City Tours, Culture, Food, Ruins & Pyramids

CLASSIC MEXICO ADVENTURE

14 Days Mexico City to Playa del Carmen Highlights: Hiking, Beaches, Ruins, Pyramids, Culture & Kayaking

WHEN TO VISIT MEXICO

Mexico’s climate can vary dramatically depending on where you are in the country. The north is arid, dry and sweltering hot, the central highlands are at altitude and cool through much of the year, while the south is tropical and home to humid jungles.

Generally speaking, the  high season  falls between November and March. This is winter, and it’s when the country is driest.

Low season  is from April through to October, when it can be incredibly hot and rainy and when there’s a danger of hurricanes hitting the coast, particularly the Caribbean.

Winter is usually the best time to visit Mexico, as this is when the weather is cooler and there’s little chance of rain. This is also when you’ll be paying the highest prices, as winter is the busiest time of year, especially over the December holidays.

For more information, check out the  Best Time to Visit Mexico: Month by Month Breakdown

PACK LIKE A PRO FOR YOUR TRIP!

Safety in mexico.

Mexico never makes the news for good reasons, and the country does have huge problems with Cartels, corruption and violence.

Thankfully though, none of this is going to affect the savvy traveler. In tourist hotspots such as Cancun, you’re safe from any violence, although be wary of your belongings. Be careful at night, and avoid going out alone.

Some areas should be avoided though, or traveled through with caution. These include Acapulco and the border cities with the USA such as Juarez.

Where you can, take first-class buses as these won’t stop and they have extra security. Equally, don’t jump into taxis on the street, use Uber or other ride-sharing apps, or order a secure taxi inside the bus station, hotel, or airport.

As with any destination, we recommend learning and adhering to certain safety practices when you travel. Be sure to read our personal  travel safety tips , compiled from our travels across 7 continents.

MEXICO TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Mexico travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Mexico and start planning your dream trip.

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Mexico Travel Guide: Discover the Best of Mexico

Mexico, a country vibrant with colors and rich in diverse landscapes, is the heart of our Mexico Travel Guide. This guide invites travelers to venture beyond renowned tourist destinations like Cancun , Playa del Carmen , and Puerto Vallarta . Explore beyond luxurious resorts and famous beaches; immerse yourself in Mexico’s deep-rooted history, exquisite cuisine, and the warmth of its people.

Embarking on a journey through Mexico offers an exploration of contrasts and surprises. Whether it’s backpacking across rugged terrains, cruising along scenic routes, or indulging in a leisurely holiday, the country presents a myriad of experiences. From the ancient Mayan ruins to the pristine beaches , and the bustling streets of Mexico City, known for its rich art, culture, and gastronomy, there is something for every traveler.

The culinary adventures in Mexico are as diverse as its landscapes. Traditional dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, chiles en nogada, ceviche, and the world-renowned mole offer a glimpse into the country’s rich culinary heritage. Each dish is a celebration of flavors and traditions.

No matter the duration of the visit, Mexico leaves travelers with a longing for more, a desire to delve deeper into its culture and landscapes. This guide is designed to lead explorers beyond the well-trodden paths, to discover the heart and soul of Mexico , and fall in love with its many hidden gems.

Why Visit Mexico?

Mexico, a country brimming with life and color, offers an array of reasons to be at the top of any traveler’s list. From its stunning natural landscapes to its rich cultural tapestry, Mexico is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience for every kind of traveler.

Unmissable Experiences and Attractions

Mexico’s landscape is a canvas of natural wonders, appealing to all who seek outdoor adventures. Behold the grandeur of Copper Canyon , a spectacle that rivals the Grand Canyon, or immerse in the ethereal beauty of the Yucatán’s Cenotes , where waters shimmer with clarity. Beachgoers will find bliss on Tulum’s pristine shores and Cozumel’s vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.

In the heart of Mexico City, history and modernity blend seamlessly. The city is a treasure trove for art lovers, boasting the Frida Kahlo Museum and the majestic Palace of Fine Arts . Its streets buzz with life, adorned with vibrant murals and lively markets, encapsulating the rich tapestry of Mexico’s cultural heritage.

Cultural Highlights and Historical Significance

Mexico’s history, rich and vibrant, is etched in its ancient ruins and colonial cities. The legacies of the Maya and Aztecs are alive in majestic sites like Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan , where towering pyramids speak of a storied past. In the colorful streets of Guanajuato and Puebla , every corner whispers tales from a colonial era.

The soul of Mexico shines through in its traditions and people. Celebrations like Dia de los Muertos and Oaxaca’s Guelaguetza are not just festivals; they are vivid tapestries of communal spirit and heritage. These events, along with the renowned hospitality of the Mexican people, create an inviting atmosphere that makes every visitor feel part of Mexico’s extended family.

Visiting Mexico is more than just a trip; it’s an immersion into a world where every corner holds a new discovery, every street a story, and every experience a treasure. Whether it’s the natural beauty, the rich history, or the vibrant culture, Mexico offers a journey that resonates long after the return home.

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Planning Your Mexican Adventure

Embarking on a journey to Mexico requires thoughtful planning to ensure an enriching and hassle-free experience. This section provides essential insights to help you craft the perfect Mexican adventure, from choosing the best time to visit to leveraging expert advice for an unforgettable itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Mexico

Selecting the right time for your Mexican getaway is crucial for an optimal experience. The months from December to April are often recommended for their pleasant climate, offering sunny days with minimal rainfall, ideal for exploring and relaxing.

For those keen on experiencing Mexico’s vibrant cultural events, planning your visit around specific festivals like the Day of the Dead or during the whale-watching season in Baja California can be enriching. Be mindful that peak seasons may bring larger crowds and higher costs, so early planning and booking are advisable to secure the best deals and experiences.

Crafting Your Itinerary with Expert Advice

Creating an itinerary for Mexico, a country rich in diverse attractions, requires careful planning. While online resources such as interactive maps and travel blogs offer valuable information, they may not capture the full essence of what Mexico has to offer. Engaging with specialized travel agencies like Allied Travel can elevate your trip planning.

These experts, with their deep knowledge of Mexican locales, can tailor your journey to match your interests, whether it’s archaeological explorations, beach relaxation, or cultural immersion. Their guidance can lead you to lesser-known spots, enriching your travel experience with authentic and memorable moments.

Planning your Mexican adventure is an exciting part of the travel experience. By choosing the right time to visit and leveraging expert advice for your itinerary, you’re setting the stage for a memorable journey. With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to experiencing the best of what Mexico has to offer.

Top Destinations and Attractions

Mexico is a tapestry of diverse destinations, each offering unique experiences. From bustling cities rich in culture and history to natural landscapes that captivate the soul, this section delves into the must-see cities, regions, and natural wonders that make Mexico a top travel destination.

Must-See Cities and Regions

Mexico’s cities and regions are as varied as they are fascinating.

• Mexico City’s Vibrant Heart : As the country’s capital, Mexico City is a bustling metropolis blending ancient history with modern urban life. The Zócalo , the city’s main square, is surrounded by landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace . The city’s neighborhoods, each with its own character, offer a blend of art, cuisine, and history.
• The Charm of Oaxaca : Oaxaca is a cultural gem, known for its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and rich indigenous heritage. The city is also famous for its culinary scene, especially its mole and mezcal. Nearby, Monte Albán stands as a testament to the region’s ancient Zapotec civilization.
• The Mayan Ruins and Beyond : Exploring the Yucatán Peninsula leads to the heart of the ancient Mayan civilization. Sites like Chichen Itza and Uxmal offer a glimpse into the past, while the colonial city of Mérida provides a mix of Mayan and Spanish influences.

Natural Wonders and Outdoor Activities

Mexico’s natural landscapes are as breathtaking as its urban centers.

• Beaches : From the famous shores of Cancún and Playa del Carmen to the hidden beaches of Isla Holbox and Tulum, Mexico’s coastline is a paradise for beach lovers. The Riviera Maya offers not only stunning beaches but also unique experiences like swimming in cenotes and snorkeling in coral reefs.
• Volcanoes and National Parks : For those seeking adventure, Mexico’s volcanoes like Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl provide challenging hikes with rewarding views. National parks such as Copper Canyon and Sumidero Canyon offer spectacular natural scenery and opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and experiencing Mexico’s diverse flora and fauna.
• Eco-Tourism : Mexico is a haven for eco-tourists, with destinations like the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve and the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve , where visitors can witness nature’s wonders and contribute to conservation efforts.

Whether it’s the cultural richness of its cities, the ancient allure of its ruins, or the natural beauty of its landscapes, Mexico offers a plethora of destinations and activities. This guide only scratches the surface of what this vibrant country has to offer, inviting travelers to explore and create their own unique Mexican adventure.

Experiencing Mexico

A journey through Mexico transcends typical tourism, offering a mosaic of memorable experiences. This exploration highlights the essence of Mexico – a fusion of gastronomic adventures, colorful cultural festivities, and an array of activities that cater to every kind of traveler.

Culinary Journey Through Mexico

Mexico’s culinary landscape is a flavorful testament to its rich heritage. In Mexico City, the humble taco is elevated to an art form, with an array of fillings and salsas that tantalize the taste buds. Oaxaca’s culinary scene is renowned, with its signature mole offering a symphony of flavors. Coastal regions promise a seafood paradise, where fresh ceviche captures the essence of the ocean. Mexican dining is a feast for the senses, often accompanied by lively music and a kaleidoscope of local artistry, reflecting the country’s vibrant spirit.

Festivals, Culture, and Leisure in Mexico

The cultural fabric of Mexico is woven with numerous festivals that bring to life its traditions and beliefs. The iconic Day of the Dead is a mesmerizing blend of remembrance and celebration, while regional festivals like Oaxaca’s Guelaguetza display the diversity of Mexican folklore and crafts. For those seeking relaxation, Mexico’s beaches offer tranquil havens, while adventure enthusiasts can find excitement in activities like jungle zip-lining or Pacific surfing. The rich tapestry of Mexican history is also evident in its majestic ruins and colonial architecture, inviting exploration and discovery.

To experience Mexico is to immerse oneself in a world of diverse sensations and experiences. From its gastronomy and festivals to its leisure and cultural offerings, Mexico presents a journey as diverse as it is profound. Visitors leave with more than just memories; they carry with them narratives of a land rich in culture and beauty, a testament to the enduring allure of Mexico.

Accommodation Options in Mexico: From Budget to Luxury

In Mexico, a country celebrated for its varied terrains and cultural richness, the range of lodging choices is as diverse as its scenery. Every traveler, from the budget-savvy backpacker to the aficionado of luxury, finds a haven in Mexico’s welcoming embrace. This guide is your compass to the spectrum of accommodations available, guiding you from the snug, economical hostels and guesthouses to the grandeur of upscale resorts and private villas. Here, your stay is more than just a place to rest; it’s an integral part of your Mexican adventure, tailored to fit your style, preferences, and budget.

Budget-Friendly Hostels and Guesthouses

For the budget-conscious traveler, Mexico’s hostels and guesthouses are a boon. These accommodations blend affordability with a chance to immerse in local culture.

Hostels in Major Cities

Cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Oaxaca are dotted with hostels that offer an economical way to explore urban centers. These hostels range from vibrant, social dormitories to private rooms, catering to both extroverted backpackers and those seeking a bit of solitude. They often feature communal kitchens, cozy lounges, and sometimes organize city tours or social events, making them a fantastic option for travelers keen on meeting new people and experiencing city life up close.

Guesthouses

For a more homely feel, guesthouses across Mexico provide a comfortable and authentic stay. These are often family-run establishments where you can enjoy home-cooked local meals and personalized tips about the area. Guesthouses are perfect for travelers who wish to experience the warmth and hospitality of Mexican culture firsthand. They are typically situated in residential areas, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration, and are an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter, more intimate accommodation experience.

Both hostels and guesthouses not only offer an affordable stay but also present an opportunity to connect with local communities and fellow travelers, making them ideal for those traveling on a budget.

Luxury Resorts and Boutique Hotels

In Mexico, the luxury resorts and boutique hotels stand as beacons of sophistication and exclusive comfort, transcending the ordinary lodging experience.

AIC Hotels All-Inclusive Luxury Resorts

Esteemed for its collection of all-inclusive luxury resorts, the AIC Hotels group boasts illustrious properties such as the Hard Rock Hotel in Punta Cana , Riviera Maya , Vallarta , Cancun , and Los Cabos , along with the Unico 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya. These destinations elevate the concept of luxury, offering a comprehensive array of services including elegantly appointed rooms, private beaches, top-tier entertainment, and gourmet dining. Each resort is uniquely tailored to reflect the spirit and culture of its locale, marrying opulence with local flavors.

Boutique Hotels in San Miguel de Allende and Tulum

Those yearning for a more bespoke and intimate lodging experience will find solace in the boutique hotels of San Miguel de Allende and Tulum. These establishments are celebrated for their distinctive architectural designs that echo the regions’ historical and artistic heritage. Guests are treated to a blend of personalized service and meticulous attention to detail, all within settings that artfully fuse luxurious comfort with the quaint charm of Mexico’s traditional design.

Exclusive Villas and High-End Rentals

For the ultimate in privacy and luxury, Mexico’s exclusive villas and high-end rentals offer unparalleled experiences.

Luxury Villas in Punta Mita and Playa del Carmen

In upscale areas like Punta Mita and Playa del Carmen, luxury villas provide a secluded escape. These villas offer not just privacy but also a range of exclusive services such as private chefs, concierge services, and bespoke excursions. They are ideal for travelers seeking a more personalized and secluded luxury experience.

High-End Rental Properties

High-end rental properties across Mexico offer luxurious amenities and personalized experiences. These properties often feature state-of-the-art facilities, exquisite décor, and breathtaking views. They cater to those who desire the finest in accommodation, combining the comforts of home with the luxury of a high-end resort.

Mexico’s accommodation landscape is as varied and vibrant as the country itself. From the budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to the opulent luxury resorts, exclusive villas, and high-end rentals, there is something to suit every traveler’s need. Whether seeking a cultural immersion on a budget or indulging in the lap of luxury, Mexico’s hospitality ensures a memorable and fitting stay for every visitor.

Practical Travel Information

Navigating through Mexico’s rich landscapes and vibrant cities requires practical travel information to enhance your experience. This section provides essential tips on accommodation options, transportation, and safety, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey across this diverse country.

Navigating Transportation in Mexico

Transportation in Mexico offers various options to suit different travel styles and needs. For long distances, domestic flights are efficient and connect major cities. The bus system is extensive and ranges from luxurious coaches to economical options. For exploring at your own pace, consider renting a car, but be mindful of local driving practices.

In cities, taxis and rideshare apps provide convenient ways to move around. For a truly local experience, ‘colectivos’ or shared minibuses are a popular and affordable choice. Always prioritize safety, especially on road trips, by sticking to main highways and well-traveled routes.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Traveling through Mexico is generally safe, but awareness and precaution are key. It’s advisable to frequent recognized tourist locales, particularly after dark, ensuring personal items are always secure. Sharing your itinerary with a trusted contact and carrying duplicates of vital documents such as passports and identification is prudent. Familiarize yourself with Mexico’s laws and cultural norms to respect local practices and avoid misunderstandings.

Health-wise, opt for bottled or filtered water and approach street food with discernment to prevent digestive issues. Additionally, having the contact information of your nation’s embassy or consulate on hand is essential for unforeseen emergencies.

Armed with these practical tips on accommodation, transportation, and safety, you’re set to explore Mexico’s wonders with confidence. Each journey here promises not just a destination, but a rich tapestry of experiences, stories, and memories to cherish.

Budgeting for Your Trip

Crafting a budget for your Mexican adventure is a crucial step in trip planning. Whether you’re backpacking on a shoestring or indulging in luxury, understanding costs and knowing how to maximize your budget can greatly enhance your travel experience. This section offers insights into cost estimates, money-saving tips, and options for both budget and luxury travel in Mexico.

Cost Estimates and Money-Saving Tips

Traveling in Mexico can be surprisingly affordable, but costs vary depending on your travel style and destinations. Accommodations range from budget hostels at around $10-20 per night to mid-range hotels averaging $50-100. Meals can cost as little as $3-5 for street food or up to $20-30 in upscale restaurants. For transportation, local buses are economical, while rental cars or flights are pricier but offer more convenience.

To save money, consider traveling during the off-peak season, using public transportation, and eating at local markets. Booking accommodations and transport tickets in advance can also lead to significant savings. Additionally, many of Mexico’s natural wonders and historical sites are free to explore, offering budget-friendly entertainment.

Backpacking and Luxury Options

Backpackers will find Mexico a paradise with its affordable hostels, cheap local cuisine, and numerous free attractions. Staying in hostels, using public transport, and eating at local taquerias and markets can keep daily expenses low.

For those seeking luxury, Mexico offers world-class resorts, gourmet dining, and exclusive tours. While more expensive, these options provide unparalleled comfort and experiences. Luxury travelers can manage costs by booking all-inclusive packages, which often cover meals, drinks, and activities, providing value for money.

Budgeting for a trip to Mexico requires balancing costs with experiences. Whether you’re a backpacker or a luxury traveler, smart planning and local insights can help you make the most of your budget. With a range of options to suit all pockets, Mexico is a destination that offers rich experiences without breaking the bank.

Wrapping Up Your Mexico Travel Guide Exploration

As this guide concludes, we hope it has served as a valuable compass, guiding you through the diverse and enchanting landscape of Mexico. Our aim was to provide a thorough overview, from practical tips to exciting destinations, to prepare you for a journey as vibrant as Mexico itself.

Covering everything from cost-effective accommodations to luxurious stays, and from essential travel tips to safety advice, this guide was crafted to enhance your understanding and anticipation of a Mexican adventure. Whether your future travels lead you to hidden beaches or bustling city streets, the insights here are meant to enrich your experience.

Remember that the true essence of Mexico, with its rich culture and breathtaking scenery, awaits your personal discovery. May your travels be as colorful and diverse as the country you’re set to explore. Mexico, with its myriad of experiences and warm hospitality, is ready to unfold its wonders for you.

Ready to Explore Mexico? Let Allied Travel Guide You

Embarking on a journey to Mexico, with its kaleidoscope of cultures, landscapes, and experiences, can be a thrilling yet daunting endeavor. This is where Allied Travel steps in as your trusted companion. With a deep understanding of Mexico’s diverse offerings, Allied Travel specializes in crafting personalized itineraries that align with your unique travel desires and preferences.

Discover Mexico with Allied Travel

Allied Travel, with its expertise in Mexican destinations, offers a seamless travel planning experience. Their services range from selecting the perfect accommodations to suit your style and budget, to recommending the best local experiences that go beyond the typical tourist trails.

Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of Mexico City, the pristine beaches of the Riviera Maya, or the mystical ruins of the Yucatán, Allied Travel’s knowledgeable team ensures your journey is as enriching as it is hassle-free. Their personalized approach means every aspect of your trip is tailored to your interests, whether it’s cultural immersion, adventure, relaxation, or a blend of all.

Begin Your Mexican Adventure with Allied Travel

Eager to delve into Mexico’s captivating charm? Allied Travel is here to guide you on this exhilarating expedition. Initiating your dream Mexican holiday is just a click away on their website or a call to their expert team.

Allied Travel prides itself on designing travel experiences that are more than mere journeys; they create lasting impressions tailored to your preferences. Their approach, rooted in personalized service and enriched by deep knowledge of Mexico’s diverse attractions, promises a travel experience that is as unique and vibrant as Mexico itself. Choose Allied Travel to lead you into a world of unforgettable Mexican adventures.

Your exploration of Mexico, filled with vibrant colors, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, is just a consultation away with Allied Travel. Embrace the opportunity to create a journey that’s uniquely yours, and let the experts at Allied Travel turn your Mexican dream into a reality.

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If you are planning to visit Mexico then you are probably wondering where to even begin! Mexico is such a huge and diverse country, which is why I put together this Mexico Travel Guide to help you get started. 

I loved my time in Mexico so much, I moved here! Well not permanently, but I keep a room in a house here and when I’m not traveling, Mexico is the place I call home.

Writing a travel guide to Mexico is no easy task. Mostly because it’s so diverse. Where I live in Playa del Carmen , is a world away from San Christobal de Las Casas , which is another world away from Mexico City (CDMX). But I’m going to do my best to give you an overview of this incredible country which has well and truly stolen my heart.

In this guide to Mexico , I will go over all of the basics that you need to know to help you plan a trip to Mexico. I’ve included lots of links to further reading and places where you can get more in-depth information as well as some great travel tips for Mexico .

Top 10 Things to Do in Mexico

• Visit Chichen Itza
• Go scuba diving
• Take a Mexican cooking class
• Go swimming with Whale Sharks
• Visit Frida’s house in Mexico City
• Relax in The Riviera Maya
• Get cultured in Merida
• Swim or go diving in a Cenote
• Shop for textiles in Chapas
• See dolphins in the wild at Sian Ka’an

Click for place guides

Quick Tip:  Book accommodation, tours and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress. 

Best Mexico Tours :  Click here to check out the top Mexico tours Best Mexico Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in Mexico Best Mexico Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Mexico

Mexico Itineraries

The ultimate backpacking mexico itinerary, guanajuato mexico itinerary.

Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

Mexico Travel Information

General information.

Mexico , officially the United Mexican States, is a country in the southern portion of North America . It is bordered to the north by the United States; to the south and west by the Pacific Ocean; to the southeast by Guatemala , Belize , and the Caribbean Sea ; and to the east by the Gulf of Mexico.

The capital of Mexico, the country, is the Federal District (Distrito Federal, D.F.) otherwise known as Mexico City, or even just Mexico .

The currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN)

The dialing code of Mexico is +52

The water may not be safe to drink from the tap in Mexico, however, you will find filtered water everywhere so no need to buy bottled water.

Mexico Accommodation

Accommodation in Mexico is generally to a good standard. Although that really depends on where in Mexico you are. In the Riviera Maya where everything is set to cater to a North American clientele, you can expect very high standards (and prices to match) but budget accommodation is also plentiful and very reasonable. 

Most hostels in Mexico have a communal kitchen, wifi is pretty standard unless you are visiting somewhere remote, like Holbox , Punta Allen , or Bacalar . So just check if it’s a deal-breaker for you. 

You will find almost all accommodations in Mexico on Hostel World and/or Booking.com , making booking very simple.

In the more tourist-friendly areas you will almost always be able to pay by card, or with cash in either local currency or USD (must be clean and with no rips at all). If you are concerned do check before booking. Some smaller places may not accept cards.

For a bed in a dorm expect to pay around $100 MX per night($6 USD) if you want a private room in a dorm then you are looking at around $200 MX ($11 USD). Or if you prefer to stay in a hotel expect to pay around $300 ($15 USD) or more.

If you prefer to stay in an Airbnb then a room in a house will cost around $100 MX ($10 USD) and for a whole house or apartment expect to pay $200 ($20 USD).

As a note, you can expect to pay a lot more than this in many places in the Riviera Maya , especially if you want to go during peak season.

Food in Mexico

OMG food in Mexico is on another level. Seriously. Tacos are life. And don’t even get me started on breakfast in Mexico , Mole, or Chilaquiles, or Chile Rellenos, or Tamales… of I’m going to stop now because there are just so many Mexican dishes you must try while visiting Mexico. My point is, you will not go hungry in Mexico! If you stick to eating good Mexican food, you can also save a lot of money, just stay away from the gringo restaurants and eat on the street as much as you can.

P.S. If you want to find the best food in Mexico then I strongly advise you spend some time eating your way around Oaxaca, you won’t regret it… although your waistband may!

Best Things To Do In Mexico

There are so many cool things to do in Mexico, where does one even begin? Let’s start with some history. If you are in the Yucatan Peninsular then you can’t miss Chichen Itza at night , or during the day . There are a lot of Mayan Ruins around and other than there I would recommend Tulum Ruins , Coba Ruins , and Ek Balam . Then there is also swimming in Cenotes , and of course scuba diving in Mexico . If you want to experience Plant Medicine here in Mexico that’s also possible Magic Mushrooms are in San Jose del Pacifico and it’s possible to also do Ayahuasca in Mexico .

But Mexico has many different coastal places to visit, Baja California has incredible diving, surfing, and it’s also one of the best wine destinations in Mexico . Veracruz has some of the most delicious food. If you want to shop till you drop buying handmade artisanal goods, then get yourself to San Cristobal de las Casas .

But if you want to party, shop, eat, and soak up culture then Mexico City has it all, and there are also lots of interesting places to visit outside of the city.

Visiting most Mayan or Aztec Ruins will cost under $5 USD, with the exception of Chichen Itza which will set you back around $20 USD! For a 2 tank scuba dive, you are looking at around $100 UDS plus equipment rental.

For a Mexican cooking class expect to pay upwards of $50 USA, a food tour is around $60 USD, and if you don’t mind where you sit, a seat at a Lucha Libre fight can cost as little as $5 USD

I would budget for at least $10 USD a day for activities. Somedays you will spend less of course, and some days more.

Mexico budget per day:

Backpackers Budget – $800 MX 

Accommodation: $300 MX Food: $200 MX Activities: $400 MX

Mid Budget – $1800 MX 

Accommodation: $600 MX Food: $500 MX Activities: $500 MX

Luxury Budget – $3600MX 

Accommodation: $1000 MX Food: $1400 MX  Activities: $800 MX

Recommended Mexican Tour Companies

These are companies I 100% recommend booking activities within Mexico.  

Where Sidewalks End – One of my favorite Mexican based. companies offering boutique travel experiences you won’t find anywhere else. 

Turismo Channel – If you are traveling to Playa del Carmen then I recommend booking through my friend Vanessa at Turismo Channel.  You can check out their tours by   clicking here  and us code  claire10off  for 10% off group tours You can also   send her a WhatsApp message  quoting the code to receive the discount.

Mexico Safety Advice

Ok, so here’s the thing. Mexico was never on my list of places to travel solo to. I wasn’t dumb, I’d seen the news and knew there was nothing in Mexico apart from cartels and kidnappings. True story.

But while I was living in Guatemala my mind started to change. Firstly everyone told me not to go to Guatemala because it was too dangerous. But I was there, and I was safe, so maybe people had it wrong… When I was doing a work exchange in a hostel there I’d ask everyone where their favorite place way. It went one of two ways, they would tell me Colombia , or Mexico. 

Anyway, by the time I was getting ready to leave Guatemala, I’d decided to go via Mexico back to the USA so I could make a quick trip to Tulum to see what all of the fuss was about. I had quite the journey from Tikal to Tulum which ended up with me wandering the back streets of Tulum at midnight unable to find my hostel, you can read about that misdemeanor and 14 others here .

Anyway, all of that is just to say. Don’t believe everything people tell you. I live in Playa del Carmen and I ride my bike home alone at 2 am. The thing with Mexico is that unless you are planning on buying drugs, or hooking up with a fully-fledged member of a cartel and have ambitions to become the next cartel wife you are very unlikely to be harmed in any way. Of course, crime happens everywhere, but I find Mexico no more unsafe than New York or London .

Be very careful with cash machines, I only use the machines in the banks, or in the supermarkets.

In general, don’t trust the police, and know if they stop you and start being difficult you can get them to go away for as little as $20 pesos! Although if they see you have more, they will want more.

Although there are some lovely, honest taxi drivers. I’ve met many of them. Often the ones that will target you as a tourist (especially in the Riviera Maya ) are notoriously morally bankrupt… Seriously in Playa, they won’t even let me in their car as they know right away I live here because I’m Speaking Spanish and asking to go to a residential address. Your first hurdle will be getting from the airport . The taxi drivers will tell you anything they can think of to get you in their car. The bus isn’t running etc. All lies.

In the Riviera Maya , avoid taxis at night. If you can, call a taxi, or make sure you are with people, and NEVER sit in the front if you are alone. The taxis run on a fixed fee system. If you don’t know the prices, this can make life difficult. So always check the price before you get in. Or if you know the fee, don’t ask, just hand over the money at the end. If you are the price at the end, they can tell you anything they like and you have no choice but to pay. 

One thing I know for sure is that you should never travel to Mexico without some kind of insurance. There is no free healthcare for foreign visitors there so if anything should happen to you you will end up with a very large bill without insurance. There are 2 travel insurance companies I recommend SafetyWing and Heymondo .

SafetyWing is insurance specifically for Digital Nomads which renews every month. Whereas World Nomads is more for Backpackers. You can read the full review I wrote about long term travel insurance here , and use the widget below to check the price of World Nomads.

If however you are like me and now resident in this beautiful country neither of those options will work for you, instead you will need to get Mexico expat insurance .

Mexico Money Saving Tips

Take some spanish classes .

If you want to save money then one sure-fire way to do so is to take some Spanish classes . It’s amazing how things magically become cheaper when you speak to the person selling those things in their language. From getting the right fare from the taxi driver to haggling at the market, think of the money spent on learning Spanish as an investment. I take online classes with Toucan Experiences to keep progressing with my Spanish.

Look Out For Hostels With Kitchens

Not all hotels and hostels in Mexico will have communal kitchens. So if you want to save money by cooking for yourself then I would strongly suggest checking before booking.

Save money on accommodation using Worldpackers 

This is how I was able to stay in Guatemala for almost a year rent-free! There are so many amazing opportunities in Mexico on Worldpackers. It’s not expensive to join and if you join through my link and use the discount code in this blog post you get some money off… you’re welcome!

It’s pretty obvious really, but I’m going to say it anyway. Eat at the local places, or from the street food carts and you will save a lot of money. 

Shop At The Market 

The supermarkets can be expensive in Mexico so always shop at the market first, then if you can’t find what you are looking for head to the supermarket or tienda. 

Don’t buy Bottled Water

Although the water isn’t safe to drink directly from the tap, almost all businesses including hostels have big water bottles that are perfectly safe to drink from and they will almost always provide it for free.

Some hostels may ask for a small fee if you want to fill up large water bottles. So be sure to bring a good water bottle with you.

Mexico Packing Advice

Wondering what to pack for Mexico? I got you. Just click on the link below and take a read of my packing guide for Mexico. I also made a handy printable packing checklist!

The Ultimate Packing List For Mexico

Or you can just skip ahead and download my free packing list using the form below.

Quick Tip : View my full Mexico packing guide here including a downloadable checklist. And check out my Mexico Essentials shopping list here .

Where to Stay in Mexico

It’s important to do some research before booking your accommodation in Mexico. Especially if you a solo female traveler as you do need to be careful in many areas at night. All of the places I recommend below are in the best areas and I have either personally stayed there, or I know someone that has and it comes highly recommended.

I wrote a lot of Accommodation guides which I’ve also linked below. These guides go into detail about all of the areas I recommend staying in and why so you can make an informed choice when booking.

Where to Stay in Mexico City

The Best Area to stay in Mexico City 

Hostel Hipster Roma

Flow Suites Condessa

The Foodie Hostel

Capsule Hostel

Where to Stay in San Cristobal De Las Casas

La Abuelita Hostal

Posada Santa

Hostel Casa De Yagil

Where to Stay in Merida

Nomadas Hostel

Hotel Hacienda Mérida VIP  

The Diplomat Boutique Hotel  

Casa Lecanda Boutique Hotel

Where to Stay in Holbox

Where to stay in Holbox Guide

Casa Las Tortugas Petit Beach Hotel & Spa

Casa Daniela

Tribu Hostel

Mystique Blue Holbox

Hotel Para Ti

Villas Palmar Holbox

Where to stay in Oaxacca

Penthouse with a open-air tub (blow the budget)

Cute apartment a few blocks from the Zócalo

Independent Studio in Colonial House Downtown Oaxacca

Studio Conzatti in central Oaxaca 

Selina hostel

NaNa Vida Hotel  

Where to Stay in Cancun

Where to stay in Cancun

Le Blanc Spa Resort

Fiesta Americana Cancun Villas

Hostel Cancun Natura

Where to stay in Playa del Carmen

Where to stay in playa del carmen.

Fairmont Mayakoba

The Carmen Hotel

Budget Airbnb Studio on 5th Avenue

Stunning Studio Close To The Beach In Playa del Carmen

Where to stay in Tulum

The Best Boutique Hotels in Tulum

The Best Hostels in Tulum Mexico 

Where to stay in Cozumel

Presidente intercontinental Cozumel

Casa del Solar 

Amigos Hostel

map of Accommodation in Mexico

Traveling in mexico.

You will be pleased to know that traveling around Mexico is pretty easy. You have two main options, bus or plane . Flying internally in Mexico is pretty cheap, so if you are covering a lot of ground then flying is often the best option. 

That said there are often some journeys I will choose the bus over a flight. Personally, I won’t do super long bus journeys in Mexico as the buses can sometimes be robbed, this isn’t very common thankfully. but it is something I’m cautious of. So I prefer to search for cheap flights instead. If you are planning some long bus journeys then take a read of this guide to surviving long bus journeys ! 

In general, the ‘public transport options available to you in Mexico are as follows:

Collectivo Bus – This is the local bus used by Mexican people to travel short distances. For example, I will often take a colectivo to the supermarket, and I can also catch one from Playa del Carmen to Cancun or Tulum . They are great for short distances and are very affordable. Prices are fixed and you normally pay when leaving. 

ADO Bus –  There are other bus companies, but ADO is the main one, and most of the other busses depart from the ADO bus stations. The buses are well-maintained, clean, and comfortable. The AC is often to the max and they like to play very loud films so you have to listen to them whether you want to or not. But they are safe and reliable and don’t cost a lot. If you can book a few days in advance you will often save money. But don’t even bother trying to do it online, the website has a mind of its own. Better to just drop into the bus station a few days in advance and buy your ticket.

Flying – Traveling within a state I would always do by bus, but if you want to travel long distances that take you across state lines, then I’ll almost always fly. Personally, I try and always fly with Volares, as they are the most reliable. But there are several other budget Mexican airlines you can use. Just keep a close eye on the baggage costs as this can inflate the cheap prices. Booking in advance will always make sure you get the best price.

Taxi – Taxis are generally safe and reliable. Be careful taking taxis at night, and always arrange the price before you get in unless they are using a meter.

Uber – This is much more common than taking a taxi outside of The Riviera Maya . if you are in Mexico City you will likely Uber everywhere as it’s so cheap.  There is no Uber in the Riviera Maya and in many of the smaller pueblos. 

Quick Tip: Book authentic tours in Mexico city with Where Sidewalks End

The company was created by Ian a fellow travel blogger who lives in Oaxaca. You can see all of their Mexico experiences here. 

One of the most unique tours they offer is the Fearless in Mexico City Experience where you will enjoy the hot air balloon and culinary experiences with unusual foods.

mexico Travel Guide planning

🧳 Any recommendations on what I should pack for Mexico?

Yes! I have created a whole packing guide to Mexico which you can read here and you can also check out my packing list for Mexico on Amazon here .

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m in Mexico?

I strongly recommend using GottoGo . You can book almost all transport in the major Mexican tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.

🎫 Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in Mexico?

First and foremost check out all of the amazing Mexico tours Where Sidewalks End has. They are a small local company and they have some really special experiences.

For everything else I recommend either Viator  or GetYour Guide . 

If you are traveling to Cancun you can use GoCity and save up to 55% of the initial cost of entrance tickets to various museums, tours, and attractions!

If you are traveling to Playa del Carmen then I recommend booking through my friend Vanessa at Turismo Channel. You can check out their tours by clicking here and using the following discount codes for the best prices clairecaroff (car rental), claire10off (for 10% off group tours), claireprivate (for a discount on private tours). You can also send her a WhatsApp message quoting the above codes to receive the discount.

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using Heymondo for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out SafetyWing  digital nomad insurance.

I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance here

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

WayAWay offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise Skyscanner or Expedia are my go-to flight searching platforms.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read here . I personally use GlocalMe  as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using either Airhub or Alosim . Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are Booking.com , Hotels.com , and Expedia  They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅 Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list here . I’m currently traveling with this suitcase and this backpack . 

The Best Time To Visit Mexico

The best time to visit Mexico is during the dry season between December and April, when there is virtually no rain. The coolest months are between December and February, although temperatures can still reach averages of 28℃ during the dry season. That said, if ou are on a budget this is probably the worst time to visit. Especially if you plan on coming to the Riviera Maya as prices skyrocket.

The wet season begins in the south in May and lasts until October. A heavy shower during this period usually clears the increased humidity before it builds up again. The Caribbean coast can be affected by the hurricane season, which runs from June to November.

Mexico is a huge country, and the weather varies by season and by region. It’s worth checking the local forecast for your chosen destination.

In my opinion, the best months to visit Mexico are February or March. At this time of year the places that get cold in the winter, like CDMX and Chapas, will be warming up, The Riviera Maya is still relatively cool, and it’s low season so prices will be cheaper. 

The worst time to visit Mexico is over Christmas and during Samana Santa. Prices double and there are people EVERYWHERE!

What to Read in Mexico

Lonely Planet Mexico (Country Guide)

Where would we be without the trusty Lonely Planet Mexico book?!? It really is the best all-around guide to Mexico. The only issue I ever have with these books is that often the information can be outdated, but if you want to really explore Mexico, not just the tourist trail version of Mexico then get this book on your Kindle . It’s oftern free if you have a kindle unlimited subscription .

Oaxaca: Home Cooking from the Heart of Mexico

It’s all about the food here in Mexico. Especially in Oaxaca, thought of as the culinary heart of Mexico. This Mexican cookbook is the first true introduction to Oaxacan cuisine by a native family, each dish articulates their story, from Oaxaca to the streets of Los Angeles and beyond.

The book showcases Mexican “soul food” serving up 140 authentic, yet accessible recipes using some of the purest pre-Hispanic and indigenous ingredients available. 

Midnight in Mexico: A Reporter's Journey Through a Country's Descent into Darkness

As much as I don’t want to perpetuate Mexico’s reputation as a county full of cartels, drugs, and danger. It can’t really be ignored, and I know many people are interested in learning more. So I’ve included Midnight in Mexico on my list of books to read. It’s a true crime book written by a Mexican-American journalist and migration lawyer. It’s about as close to the truth as you can get. Being. journalist here in Mexico is one of the most dangerous arrears you can have. But Corchado is known for never shying away from the truth reporting on government corruption, murders, and the drug cartels of Mexico. In 2007, Corchado received a tip that he could be their next target, he had twenty-four hours to find out if the threat was true…

The Secret Book of Frida Kahlo: A Novel

Are you even alive if you don’t know who Frida Kahlo is? If you are a Friday fan then this is the perfect fictional accompaniment to your Mexican vacation. Especially if you will be visiting Mexico City.

Using several of Frida’s notebooks as inspiration acclaimed Mexican novelist F. G. Haghenbeck was inspired to write this touching fictional account of her life.  Through the book, you are taken on a magical ride through this imagined life of Freida 

Like Water For Chocolate

An old, but a goodie! This one is for all of you lovers of romance novels! It’s described as:

“A novel of passion, food, and magic, Like Water For Chocolate is a romantic, poignant tale, touched with moments of magic, graphic earthiness, bittersweet wit – and recipes.”

Forbidden love, family obligations, and seduction by food… what more could you ask for in a novel!

Moving To Merida

I must confess, my friend Mexico Cassie wrote this book. That doesn’t mean it’s not a bloody brilliant guide to moving to Mexico , because it is. As someone who moved to Mexico there was so much of this book that resonated with me, even though I moved here myself, without a family. 

She goes in to great detail about the visa application process and some other notoriously tricky things like trying to buy a car or find a good school for your kids. 

If you are considering a move to Merida , or anywhere in Mexico actually this is a great read!

Check out My travel books

The Solo Girls Guide to Traveling Without Fear

The solo girls guide to becoming a digital nomad

Mexico blog posts.

The Best Hotels in Cancun Mexico | Best Places to Stay in Cancun

What is Jalisco Known For? Pueblos Magicos Jalisco

Do I Need A Power Adaptor For Mexico? Mexico Outlets Guide

12 Tulum Beach Clubs You NEED to Visit [2024 Update]

Where to Stay Puerto Escondido: Best Puerto Escondido Hotels and Resorts

What is Guanajuato Known For? Things to Do in Guanajuato Mexico

Sayulita Resorts and Best Hotels in Sayulita Mexico

Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta: Best Hotels in Puerto Vallarta

Where to Stay in Guadalajara: Best Hotels in Guadalajara Mexico

Tips for Travel to Mexico

Ultimate Guide to Fun Things to Do in Merida Mexico

Best Dental Implants in Mexico: Mexico Dental Prices

Ultimate Guide to Cozumel Scuba Diving

The Complete Guide To Cozumel Scuba Diving

24 Reasons Why Scuba Diving In Cozumel Is The Best

How to Get From Cancun to Cozumel (and Cozumel to Cancun)

Fun Things to Do in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca Mexico

How to Get From Mexico to Guatemala (and Back)

What to Pack for a Trip to Mexico: Ultimate Mexico Packing List for Cancun, Tulum, and More

Mexico Residency Requirements: How to Get Residency in Mexico

2-Week Mexico Road Trip to Oaxaca Coast

Day Trips From Merida Mexico: Merida Beaches, Cities, and More

Scuba Diving Mexico: Riviera Maya Scuba Diving

The Ultimate Guide to Sian Ka’an Biosphere in 2024

Where To Stay In Mexico City [2024 update]

10 Of The Best Vacation Spots In Mexico To Visit in 2024

How to Get to Holbox from Cancun Airport, Playa del Carmen, and More

Visiting Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen | Cenote Azul & Cenote Cristalino

Visiting Coba Ruins Mexico | Everything You Need To Know

Visiting Tulum Ruins in Mexico

Playa Del Carmen Food Tour Review

Massage Playa del Carmen: Best Spas in Playa del Carmen

When is Hurricane Season in Cancun? Preparing for Hurricane Season in Mexico

When is the Best Time to Visit Cancun?

The Best Beach Clubs Playa del Carmen

Scuba Diving Playa del Carmen

The Best Hotels In Playa del Carmen

Does Amazon Deliver To Mexico? Amazon Mexico Shopping Guide

Where To Stay In Tulum

The Best Tulum Boutique Hotels

Isla Holbox Mexico Hotels You Need To Stay In

Complete guide to chichen itza mexico.

Pyramid Sound and Light Show: How to See the Chichen Itza Night Show

Riviera Maya Things to Do: Top Riviera Maya Excursions

Salsa Dancing Playa Del Carmen: Where to Go

Tulum Beach Guide: Best Beaches in Tulum

Things to Do in Holbox Mexico for Nature Lovers

Best Time To Visit Tulum: Avoiding the Tulum Rainy Season

Exploring Mayan Ruins Riviera Maya

How to Get To Bacalar Mexico

Tulum Cenote Diving

How To Get A Mexican Drivers License In Playa del Carmen

The Playa del Carmen Yoga Guide

The Best Tulum Cenotes To Visit

Things to do in Puerto Morelos

Glamping in the Riviera Maya

Tulum hostel review – the best hostels in tulum mexico.

Playa Del Carmen Car Rental

How To Get To Tulum – 6 Ways To Get From Cancun Airport To Tulum

The Ultimate Guide To Playa Del Carmen Nightlife

The Best Yoga Retreats Mexico 2023/24

The Complete Guide To Visiting Las Grutas de Tolantongo Mexico

Can You Drink The Water In Mexico? Guide To Mexican Water

Bull Shark Diving In Playa Del Carmen Everything You Need To Know

Whale Shark Tours Playa del Carmen | Everything You Need to Know

The Playa del Carmen Digital Nomads Guide

Your Ultimate 14-Day Yucatan road trip Itinerary

Top 12 Things To Do In San Miguel De Allende

The Ultimate Guide to Pueblos Magicos of Nayarit, Mexico

Guadalajara Safety Advice for Female Travelers

Best Things to Do in Guadalajara Mexico

The Ultimate Playa Del Carmen Beach Guide

Is guadalajara safe guadalajara safety advice for female travelers.

The Ultimate Guide to Pueblos Magicos in the State of Guanajuato

The Best Wellness Activities in Guanajuato Mexico

Things to Do in Puerto Escondido Mexico

Best Things To Do In Oaxaca State

11 Best Things to Do in Queretaro

My Kambo Experience | Doing Kambo In Mexico

How to Get to Sayulita

Scuba Diving in Puerto Morelos

My Personal Journey With Ayahuasca Mexico

How to Get From Cancun Airport to Playa Del Carmen

The Complete Guide To Huasteca Potosina San Luis Potosi

The Ultimate Sayulita Surf Guide for Beginners

Top Playa del Carmen Excursions

Best Surfing in Mexico

How To Get From Playa del Carmen To Tulum

Safe and Fun things to do in Playa del Carmen

Playa del carmen safety advice | is playa del carmen safe.

Cozumel Accommodations | Condos In Cozumel

Claire Summers

Hi I’m Claire!

At 34 I sold all my worldly possessions that wouldn’t fit into 3 boxes or my backpack and hit the road.

I started Claire’s Itchy Feet to inspire women to pack their bags and travel more. With no plans to stop anytime soon I’m always looking for my next adventure be it attempting to surf or climbing a volcano I’ll try (almost) anything once!

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

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7 of the best Maya ruins to visit in Mexico

Remnants of ancient civilisations still stand across Central America — and well-preserved temples and jungle-cloaked pyramids are open to visitors across southern Mexico.

Before the Spanish colonised Central America in the 16th century, the ancient Maya were one of the most sophisticated civilisations in the Western Hemisphere. They developed a complex calendar system through their knowledge of astrology and mathematics, used intricate hieroglyphics to record their history and built large, lavishly decorated cities, complete with pyramids, temples, and plazas.

At its height, the ancient Maya civilisation comprised 40 cities across Central America, spanning southern Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, El Salvador and Nicaragua. In the southern Mexican states of Yucatán, Quintana Roo and Chiapas, many of these settlements — the largest housed up to 50,000 people — still stand today, offering visitors a unique insight into the social, cultural and religious lives of the ancient Maya.

From carefully reconstructed sites like Chichen Itza to the wild, jungle-clad pyramids and ceremonial temples of Calakmul, these are the ancient Maya ruins not to miss in southern Mexico.

1. Chichen Itza

Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the beautifully preserved Chichen Itza in Yucatán is Mexico’s most famous Maya ruin. Despite the crowds, few are disappointed with El Castillo — a carefully restored pyramid that rises up 80ft and has 365 steps — or the city’s tlachtli , the largest Maya ball court in the Americas.

Occupied until the 16th century, Tulum was one of the last cities inhabited by the Maya and the only one built by the coast. The pyramids here aren’t as large as other Maya ruins in Mexico, but the setting, on 40ft-high cliffs above turquoise Caribbean waters south of Cancun, more than makes up for it.

Home to the tallest pyramid in the state of Quintana Roo, Cobá was once one of the most important Maya cities in Yucatán. Located around 30 miles west of Tulum ruins, the city was built in around 600 CE and it eventually grew to 50,000 inhabitants. Though much of Cobá has yet to be excavated, travellers can climb the 138ft-high Nohoch Mul — a pyramid that offers sweeping views over the Yucatán jungle. Cobá is also known for its sophisticated sacbe,   or ‘white road’2,   network —   limestone pathways that connect the city to neighbouring settlements.

4. Palenque

Deep in the jungles of northeastern Chiapas state in southern Mexico lies Palenque , a Late Classic Maya city known for its detailed hieroglyphic inscriptions and sculpted reliefs. These highly sophisticated designs have helped archaeologists understand more of the ancient Maya's history, mythology and calendar systems.

5. Calakmul

Cloaked by the second-largest expanse of tropical forests in the Americas, in Campeche’s Calakmul Biosphere Reserve near the border with Guatemala, Calakmul is one of Mexico’s wildest Maya ruins. It has the largest and tallest pyramid in Yucatán and more than 6,000 structures, many of them covered by jungle. The site is particularly beautiful at sunrise, when the surrounding jungle comes alive with birdsong, howler monkeys and, if you’re lucky, the roar of a jaguar.

6. Ek Balam

Around 25 miles north of the Yucatán city of Valladolid is Ek Balam , which means ‘black jaguar’ or ‘jaguar star’ in the Yucatec Maya language. The city reached its height in the eight century, when more than 20,000 people lived here. Its largest pyramid is 160 metres long and 105ft high, and contains the tomb of Ukit Kan Le´t Tok, the king of Ek Balam between 770 CE and around 797 CE. Archaeologists found the ruler buried with more than 7,000 pieces of jade, bone, ceramic, shell and precious metal, and the outside walls decorated with stone jaguars, winged creatures and human skulls.

A one-hour drive from the Yucatán capital of Merida is this seventh-century Maya city, once large enough to house 25,000 inhabitants. The Uxmal ruins are part of the Ruta Puuc, a 25-mile road network that connects Uxmal with the archaeological sites of Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, Labná, Oxkintok, Grutas de Calcehtok and Grutas de Loltún.

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• HISTORIC SITES
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• ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

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A Weekend Guide to Picturesque Punta de Mita

How to indulge in the very best that this Mexican paradise has to offer.

From Cabo to Playa Del Carmen, Mexico is home to some of the best vacation spots in North America. Punta Mita is just 10 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, but it feels worlds away from the party town. This 1,500-acre private peninsula is a more secluded and exclusive destination that has become a go-to for affluent travelers and A-list celebrities.

Those seeking a getaway that is full of relaxation, stunning scenery and five-star service will find all of that and more in this luxurious community. In addition to high-end hotels that host VIPs in panoramic suites and cozy casitas, Punta Mita also has a burgeoning culinary scene that is expanding with more fine dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for modern Mexican or sushi, this picturesque peninsula caters to a variety of tastes. 

Though there’s nothing wrong with spending your vacation lounging poolside with chips, guac, tacos and margaritas on repeat, Punta Mita boasts epic outdoor activities like hiking, boat tours, snorkeling and more. The jungle-like terrain leads right to the coast, creating a tropical setting surrounded by lush flora. Whether you’re a first-time guest or a return traveler, this guide to Punta Mita ensures that you’ll indulge in the very best of what this exclusive paradise has to offer. 

The Punta Mita Luxury Travel Guide

Conrad punta de mita, four seasons resort punta mita, the st. regis punta mita resort, asai japanese punta mita, mita mita bar, mita mary grill & bar, spice market punta de mita, enjoy a spa day, visit the islas marietas, hike monkey mountain, where to stay.

• Supermanzana Km 2, 63734 Punta Mita, Nay., Mexico

Conrad Punta de Mita is a beachfront resort that is ideal for families, groups or couples seeking an upscale stay with premium restaurants, three epic pools, a kids club and a renowned spa right at their fingertips. The adults-only pool boasts a swim-up bar where you can order cocktails in coconuts and ice-cold cervezas, while the beachfront infinity pool allows you to admire the crystal-clear turquoise waters from the comfort of your cushioned recliner. The sprawling resort has 324 rooms, but the oceanfront suites with private balcony plunge pools ensure optimal privacy and space, featuring a refined yet beachy design that makes you feel right at home.

• 63734 Punta Mita, Nayarit, Mexico

Between the Pacific views and private beaches, the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita offers a five-star escape on Mexico's Riviera Nayarit. There are 139 casita-style rooms, 34 suites and 32 villas and residences, some of which boast private terraces and plunge pools. Catch a tan by the Nuna Pool or stroll along the white sand beaches and take a dip in the sea. The Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita can also arrange a plethora of outdoor activities ranging from ATV tours to horseback riding. It’s also home to two Jack Nicklaus signature golf courses; the Punta Mita Bahia Golf Course, with views of the Bahía de Banderas, and Pacifico Golf Course.

• Lote H-4 Carretera Federal 200, Km 19.5, 63734 Corral del Risco, Nay., Mexico

Having just undergone an exciting renovation, the St. Regis Punta Mita Resort features 120 guest rooms, suites and beachfront villas, all of which are now fitted with handcrafted furnishings, Mexican artwork and hacienda structures. The signature restaurant, Carolina, serves elevated modern Mexican cuisine, but with more than six different dining concepts on-site, the culinary program is one of the best. The tiered swimming pool looks right out onto the Pacific Ocean, but the beautiful beach that sits in front of the resort is great for snorkeling and swimming.

Where to Eat

Codex is the Conrad Punta de Mita’s signature restaurant, and it showcases the very best of Nayarit’s culinary scene. Its beachside location makes it the ideal eatery for an elevated sunset dinner, and its inventive menu focuses on seasonal specialties that blend traditional flavors with modern cooking methods. Though the wine list is beyond impressive, the cocktails are intricate and enticing, and most are inspired by ancient Mayan and Aztec culture. Some can’t-miss dishes include the soft-shell crab, lamb loin and the goat cheesecake for dessert.

• Kupuri Beach Club Punta Mita Resort, 63734 Nay., Mexico

Asai Japanese is the ultimate place for sushi in Punta Mita. The elevated bohemian setting features both indoor and outdoor seating, but the Pacific views are best enjoyed from the covered, round terrace. Start with the steamed shrimp dumplings and fried snapper from the dim sum menu before ordering an array of sushi. You also can’t go wrong with the omakase menu which comes with three appetizers, 10 pieces of nigiri, one roll, miso soup and dessert.

Renowned for its modern Mexican cuisine, Carolina at The St. Regis offers a fine dining experience in an elegant yet beachy atmosphere. Patrons are able to choose between a four, six or 10-course tasting menu, and if you want the full experience, opt for the wine pairing as well. The dishes vary between each tasting menu, but you can expect everything from fresh seafood like ceviche and crudo to lobster and duck.

Where to Drink

• Ave Las Redes 77, 63734 Corral del Risco, Nay., México

Mita Mita Bar is a hip and trendy bar that specializes in tequila, mezcal and raicilla-based cocktails. The airy and bohemian atmosphere allows you to enjoy the coastal breeze while you sip and savor these refreshing libations, but if you visit on the weekend, you’ll be treated to live tunes from local performers and bands.

• 63734 Corral del Risco, Nayarit, Mexico

Enjoy having your toes in the sand while sipping on a zesty Paloma at Mita Mary Grill & Bar, right on the Punta Mita beach. Located at the St. Regis, the signature cocktails are one-of-a-kind and push the boundaries of mixology. The Chocolate Julep, for example, is made using a dark chocolate fat-washed whiskey, while the Garibaldito uses a vanilla-infused Campari. If you want something to nibble on while you drink, order the shrimp toast and charred tomato.

• Desarrollo Costa, 63734 Corral del Risco, Nay., México

Located at the W Punta de Mita, Spice Market is a hip and transportive bar with dim lighting, flashy furnishing and plenty of patterns. The pan-Asian cuisine is complemented by a creative list of cocktails, and if you snag a spot at the bar, you’ll be right in the middle of the moody atmosphere. Switch your classic flavors up with a ginger margarita or sip on the Le Grand Amour, which is a combination of Pomegranate liqueur, green tea syrup, yuzu, Belvedere vodka and Veuve Clicquot.

Nothing beats a massage by the beach, but given the concentration of spas in Punta Mita, more unique treatments like temazcal ceremonies and Mayan-inspired body rituals are available. The Conrad Spa boasts top-notch outdoor facilities that include jacuzzis, a cold plunge and a private pool surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant bougainvillea. The Apuane Spa offers everything from reiki to sound healing, but the Tequila Stone massage uses an ancestral blend of oil and tequila that relieves muscle tension and stimulates circulation.

The Marietas Islands are just a short boat ride away from Punta Mita. These unique, uninhabited islands were formed due to volcanic activity, giving them a special composition that makes them beyond picturesque. While sitting on the hidden beach at Playa del Amor, day trip visitors can look up through the massive opening to the blue skies above, but the Marietas Islands are also popular for snorkeling, paddle boarding and swimming.

Need a break from the beach? Monkey Mountain is one of the most popular hiking trails in the area, and its moderate difficulty makes it a great activity for most travelers. The entire hike takes around three and a half hours in total, and your hotel concierge should be able to set up a tour if you prefer a guided excursion. Monkey Mountain is the tallest mountain south of Punta Mita, and the panoramic vistas of Sayulita and unobstructed views of Banderas Bay are awe-inspiring.

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Top all-inclusive resorts to visit in Mexico

A guide to Mexican resorts for different budgets, groups and preferences

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When planning a family-friendly vacation in Mexico, look no further than this guide. From Cancun’s beautiful beaches to Tulum’s cultural charm, Mexico’s all-inclusive resorts cater to families looking to make memories . Below, we will highlight the best all-inclusive resorts that prioritize comfort, entertainment and safety for families. Whether you’re looking for water parks, kids’ clubs or gourmet dining options suitable to your taste, these resorts have it all.

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Best overall: Moon Palace Cancun Runner up: Azul Beach Resort Riviera Maya Popular choice: Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta Luxury option: Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit Best for kids: Iberostar Paraiso Maya Also consider: Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos Most underrated: Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa Best for multigenerational families: Barcelo Maya Palace Final choice: Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa

The resorts

Best overall: Moon Palace Cancun

About the resort: Moon Palace Cancun is a retreat for families, couples and solo travellers. Families can revel in the expansive grounds, which host a water park, kid and teen clubs and an array of family-friendly dining options. Couples can find romantic seclusion in luxurious suites, spa experiences and intimate beachside dinners. Moreover, solo adventurers appreciate the vibrant atmosphere, with many activities, entertainment and social spaces to explore.

Where to book: Booking.com | Moon Palace Cancun

Runner up: Azul Beach Resort Riviera Maya

About the resort: At Azul Beach Resort Riviera Maya, families can enjoy spacious family suites, personalized kids’ and teens’ activities and a splash-filled water park. Meanwhile, couples can enjoy romantic escapes with beachfront dinners, spa treatments and intimate moments by infinity pools. If you’re travelling alone, you can find a vibrant and social ambiance with diverse dining options, water sports and evening entertainment. 

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Where to book: Booking.com | Azul Beach Resort Riviera Maya

Popular choice: Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta

About the resort: Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta is an all-inclusive paradise infused with rock ‘n’ roll flair. Families can enjoy music-inspired family suites, Little Big Club for kids and family-friendly pools. Furthermore, couples can discover romantic moments with beachfront dinners, spa indulgences and live music at sunset. Again, if you’re travelling alone, there is a diversity of entertainment options, nightlife and the opportunity to mingle with the iconic Hard Rock vibe. 

Where to book: Expedia | Booking.com | Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta

Luxury option: Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

About the resort: Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is where families can enjoy oversized suites, fun activities for kids and a beautiful beach. Couples can have romantic dinners, relax at the spa and enjoy a pool for adults. If you’re alone, you can have a great time in the fancy surroundings, try delicious food and choose between chilling out or going on adventures. 

Where to book: Expedia | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

Best for kids: Iberostar Paraiso Maya

About the resort:  Iberostar Paraiso Maya in Mexico has a Wave of Activities program featuring fun activities for kids. Couples can discover romantic moments in the lavish surroundings, with serene pools and beautiful beach views. Moreover, those flying solo can enjoy diverse dining options and the chance to unwind or engage in various activities. 

Where to book:  Expedia | Iberostar Paraiso Maya

Also consider: Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos

About the resort: Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos in Mexico is great for pools and water slides and has a club for kids . Couples can have romantic moments by the ocean, private dinners, and relax in areas just for adults. If you’re alone, there’s a fun atmosphere with water activities, entertainment and a chance to meet new people. 

Where to book: Expedia | Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos

Most underrated: Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa

About the resort: Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa in Mexico is a dreamy haven for families, couples and solo explorers. Families revel in spacious accommodations, with the Explorer’s Club and numerous family-friendly amenities. Couples find romance in beachfront dining, rejuvenating spa experiences and intimate moments by the pristine shores. Moreover, solo adventurers can embrace the welcoming atmosphere, diverse dining choices and the chance to unwind or venture out. 

Where to book: Expedia | Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa

Best for multigenerational families: Barcelo Maya Palace

About the resort: Barcelo Maya Palace in Mexico is great for families, couples and solo travellers. Families can enjoy oversized suites, a fun water park and mini-golf. Couples can have romantic moments by the beach, get pampered at the spa and enjoy intimate dinners. If you’re alone, there’s a lively atmosphere with many food options and activities for a memorable stay. The resort is perfect for family fun, romantic getaways and solo adventures in the Riviera Maya.

Where to book: Expedia |  Barcelo Maya Palace

Final choice: Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa

About the resort: Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa in Mexico is a fantastic spot for your next vacation. Families get big rooms, a lazy river and a tremendous club for older kids. Couples can have romantic dinners by the beach, enjoy spa treatments and relax in places just for adults. If you’re alone, there’s a lively atmosphere with lots of entertainment and chances to chill or meet new people. 

Where to book: Expedia | Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa

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Is Holbox Worth Visiting in 2024? Travel Guide + Tips

Wondering if Holbox is worth visiting on your next trip to Mexico? You’re in the right place!

Isla Holbox is a small island off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. While it isn’t the easiest place to get to, this tropical island is undoubtedly worth all the trouble.

As a travel blogger that lives in nearby Playa del Carmen , I’ve visited Isla Holbox several times and am here to let you in on what it’s really like.

In this post, I’ll discuss why Isla Holbox is worth visiting , the best things to do there, and who Holbox is most suited for.

I’ll also review important safety information, how to get to Holbox, and other travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Ready to find out everything you need to know about visiting Holbox Island? Let’s get going with this Isla Holbox travel guide!

Is Holbox Worth Visiting?

Yes, Holbox is definitely worth visiting! Without a doubt, it’s a beautiful tropical island with stunning beaches and is one of the best-kept secrets in Mexico.

When compared to other Mexican islands like Isla Mujeres or Cozumel , Holbox is more off-the-beaten-path, with its dirt roads, lack of cars, and small downtown area.

But travelers should be prepared to disconnect in Holbox, as the island is still largely undeveloped and lacks stable infrastructure and strong wifi.

However, this admittedly adds to the island’s charm, along with its laid-vibe and untouched tropical atmosphere.

And what I really love about Holbox is the gorgeous beaches with seemingly endless shallow waters–it honestly feels like a dream!

And even if you don’t want to spend your entire vacation under a palm tree on the beach, Holbox offers several other unique activities like bioluminescence tours , snorkeling with whale sharks , and kayaking excursions .

Is Holbox Safe to Visit?

Yes, Holbox is safe to visit . It’s a small island with a small population and few reported crimes.

I’ve always felt very safe walking around Holbox and have never felt uncomfortable–it’s quite the opposite.

Most people are extremely friendly, whether serving you a drink or walking by on the sandy street.

Holbox feels like a breath of fresh air after spending time in Playa del Carmen or Cancun. There are much fewer issues with cartels, and it feels like even fewer scams.

Holbox Travel Advisory

Officially, the U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory for Holbox is currently listed as a “ Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution ”.  

However, this travel advisory is for the entire state of Quintana Roo, which includes nearby destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen , and Tulum. 

While Holbox is arguably one of the safest tourist destinations in Quintana Roo, you should still practice basic street smarts when traveling.

For example, don’t leave your personal belongings unattended at the beach, stay aware of your surroundings, and don’t spend time on the beach alone after dark.

Do you need travel insurance for Mexico? Yes! Most insurance plans in your home country will not cover incidents abroad. I recommend using Travel Insurance Master, which is a handy travel insurance marketplace where you can compare policies. Get a FREE quote by clicking here !

What is Holbox Like?

At approximately 26 miles (42 km) long and 1 mile (1.6 km) wide, Holbox is a cute and colorful tropical island.

The main tourist area is centered around a small town square, that’s surrounded by just a few blocks.

What most people don’t realize is that most of the island is not inhabited, which makes it feel a lot smaller than it is. 

And probably the most noteworthy thing about Holbox is that there are no paved roads and very few cars, adding to its very laid-back vibe. 

Instead, you’ll find beefed-up golf carts with four-wheel tires that are built to handle the muddy roads during the rainy season.

You can easily walk almost anywhere on the island, but to reach some of the more remote hotels, you can also rent bicycles or take one of the many golf cart taxis.

The island is also known for its shallow, crystal-clear water and incredible white sand beaches.

The main stretch of beach is lined with beach bars, beach clubs, and little kiosks selling day trips and tours.

Reasons to Visit Holbox Island Mexico

Here are 5 reasons to visit Holbox:

• Beautiful beaches with shallow waters : Holbox isn’t extensive, but the main beach, Playa Holbox, is a mile-long stretch of sand with beautiful, shallow waters. Holbox honestly has some of the best beaches in Mexico and it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun.
• Laid back vibes : Holbox definitely feels like a welcome escape from the busy nearby tourist destinations like Cancun or Playa del Carmen . It’s generally much quieter, but there’s still plenty to do.
• Bioluminescence : Holbox is one of the few places in the world that is home to bioluminescent plankton, which creates a stunning natural light show in the water at night. You can take a night bioluminescence tour on a boat or kayak and enjoy the glowing waters around you.
• Lively nightlife : Despite the low population and laid-back atmosphere, Holbox has surprisingly good nightlife for such a small island. There are only a handful of bars and clubs, but they become packed at night, often with live music, especially during peak season.
• Birdwatching : Holbox is part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve and is an island paradise for people who love birdwatching and nature activities. There’s a 3-island tour that practically guarantees you’ll see some flamingos and includes a stop at an island completely overrun by hundreds of different species of birds.

Who is Holbox Best Suited For?

Even though Holbox has a low-key vibe, it’s perfect for many different types of travelers.

Solo travelers love Holbox because it’s a great place to meet people, especially if you stay at one of the hostels downtown or even one of the boutique hotels near the beach.

It’s also great for couples and families, as it’s considered relatively safe, and there are many different activities for everyone, ranging from beach and water sports to boat tours.

Holbox is particularly appealing to those who want to spend time relaxing on the beach or step out of their comfort zone and experience something more authentic.

It’s also highly recommended for nature lovers because you have incredible bioluminescent waters at night and several islands with tons of birds and other exotic wildlife nearby.

Where is Holbox?

Isla Holbox Mexico is located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, on the northern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The best way to get to Holbox is to travel by ferry or boat from Chiquila.

Chiquila is a small town, with not much there except a few restaurants, parking lots, and, of course, the ferry terminal to Holbox.

Chiquila is about 2 hours from both Cancun and Playa del Carmen, and Holbox is a 30-minute ferry ride from Chiquila.

How to Get to Holbox

Due to its remote location, getting to Holbox takes a bit more work but it’s still pretty straightforward once you know what you’re doing.

Fly into Cancun International Airport (CUN)

The first thing you’ll do is fly into Cancun International Airport (CUN). This is the largest airport in the region and very conveniently located just outside of Cancun.

From Cancun Airport, it’s easy to get to almost anywhere else in the Yucatan Peninsula or anywhere you’d like to go.

Drive from Cancun International Airport to Chiquila

Next, you’ll drive from Cancun International Airport to Chiquila.

Chiquila is about 90 miles (145 km) from Cancun Airport, and the drive usually takes just under 2 hours. There’s one main highway leaving Cancun and usually not too much traffic.

If you don’t have a car, Cancun Airport Transportation offers private airport transportation directly to Chiquila. There are also shared shuttles from Cancun airport to Chiquila.

Additionally, you can also take an ADO bus from downtown Cancun to Chiquila. The bus usually takes just over two hours and drops you off at the ferry port to Holbox.

Take the Ferry from Chiquila to Isla Holbox

Once you’re in Chiquila, all you have to do is head to the ferry terminal on the water. There’s one main road in Chiquila, and it leads you directly to the ferry terminal.

There are several overnight parking lots around the ferry terminal. And if you’re traveling with a larger group, you can take a private boat over the Isla Holbox rather than the ferry.

Several little booths near the ferry terminal allow you to book your boat tickets if you decide on this route over the ferry.

The ferry terminal in Isla Holbox is about a 15-minute walk from downtown Holbox and the main beach. You can walk or take one of the golf cart taxis, usually waiting near the ferry terminal.

Note : If you’re traveling to Holbox from Playa del Carmen , you can drive directly there, take a private shuttle, or take an ADO bus to the ferry terminal in Chiquila.

Best Time to Visit Holbox

The best time to visit Holbox is between December and April. The weather is much cooler during these months, with little chance of rain.

Peak season is at the end of December through the holidays, and things can get a little expensive and crowded during these months.

Summer months are usually more affordable and less crowded, but it gets humid and sometimes unpleasant. Few stores, restaurants, and even some hotels don’t have good air-conditioning.

Hurricane season and rainy season in the Yucatan Peninsula and Gulf of Mexico are June through November. 

Travelista Tip: I know this isn’t always feasible, but if you can, keep an eye on the weather and avoid traveling to the island if the weather doesn’t look too great.  When it rains in Holbox, the roads get extremely muddy and flooded and there isn’t much to do.

Is Holbox Expensive?

Holbox is one of the more expensive destinations in Mexico but it can still be very affordable depending on your travel style. 

Its remote location makes the prices for food, groceries, and drinks a bit more expensive. 

But if you’re on a budget, you can definitely still find cheap hostels, street food, or local Holbox restaurants to make Holbox more affordable. 

And if you have a higher budget, you can definitely find boutique luxury hotels and upscale restaurants to splurge at. 

I have also found that most tours and excursions in Holbox are pretty affordable, so that’s another way to save money.

Best Things to Do in Holbox

If you’re wondering what to do in Holbox , here are 5 of the best things to do:

Spend a Day at the Beach

Holbox is known for its beautiful beaches, so it would be a shame to go to this tiny island and miss out on spending a day at the beach!

The beach is right past the main square, so it’s easy to find and close to almost everything.

Holbox beach stretches for a mile, so you can easily find a spot in the sun. Or you can visit one of the Holbox beach clubs for lounge chairs and food and beverage service.

But the best thing about Holbox beaches is the shallow turquoise waters–you can wade out a great distance without fighting with waves or deep drop-offs.

And if the weather is nice, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard from one of the beach shacks along the beach.

Travelista Tip: Holbox is also the perfect place to watch a gorgeous Caribbean sunset. Make sure to find your spot at least a half hour before the sun sets to get a good view.

Swim with Bioluminescence

Bioluminescence is a chemical process that makes organisms (jellyfish, fish, fungi, and even insects) emit light. 

It can be compared to seeing a firefly light up the sky in the dead of the night, but bioluminescence on Holbox occurs along the shoreline and in the water.

Holbox is one of the few places in the world that has bioluminescent plankton so this shouldn’t be missed!

The best way to see it is by booking a Holbox bioluminescence tour , which will take you snorkeling or kayaking at night with a group of people.

Go on the Three-Island Tour

The Three-Island Tour is a popular Holbox boat tour from the ferry terminal in Holbox to visit 3 different nearby islands.

The first stop is usually Punta Mosquito, where you can find wild flamingos and other birds. 

Next, you visit Isla Pasion, an uninhabited island with a tropical beach surrounded by palm trees and lush vegetation. 

Afterward, you go to Isla Pajaros, an uninhabited island with dozens of birds. You’ll also stop in at Yalahau, where you’ll have time to swim in the Yalahau cenote.

Try the Lobster Pizza

Lobster Pizza is Holbox’s signature dish and a must-try for seafood lovers visiting the island.

It doesn’t sound spectacular, but it’s such a unique combination of flavors and almost always made with fresh lobster caught that morning, so it can’t be missed.

Make sure you add some local spices and sauces served with the pizza to add even more flavor.

Almost every restaurant claims they were the first to serve lobster pizza or have the best lobster pizza on the island. But Roots Pizza is one of the best restaurants for lobster pizza and a great place to give it a try!

And if you’re not a fan of lobster, don’t worry. There’s plenty of other delicious food around the island, pulling from both local cuisine and international favorites.

Join One of the Whale Shark Tours

Whale shark season in Holbox is between May and September so if you happen to be visiting during this time, it’s an incredible activity to consider.  

You can book a Holbox whale sharks tour with knowledgeable travel guides and swim with these majestic creatures.

And despite being one of the largest fishes alive today, whale sharks are actually gentle giants and won’t hurt you. 

It’s honestly an unforgettable experience–I swam with whale sharks in Isla Mujeres and it was absolutely incredible!

• Where to Stay in Holbox

In Holbox, you’ll find a variety of rustic Mexican-style accommodations to fit different budgets and preferences. 

Whether you’re looking for the luxury of a high-end resort, the cozy charm of a boutique hotel, or the budget-friendly simplicity of a hostel, you’ll find it here. 

However, if your budget allows, I would highly recommend choosing a beachfront hotel. This will give you direct access to the beautiful beach and lounge chairs to enjoy during your stay. 

And staying closer to downtown will give you easy access to all the restaurants, bars, and shops on the island. 

But even if you choose to stay at one of the more remote hotels, you can easily hire a golf cart taxi to get around.

Here are the best hotels in Holbox for every budget:

• Luxury : Hotel Villas Flamingos
• Mid-Range : Villas HM Palapas del Mar
• Budget : Madre Holbox

Travelista Tip: The hotels on the right side of downtown typically have the best beachfront area in Holbox with less seaweed.

Tips for Visiting Holbox

Are you ready for your unforgettable trip to Isla Holbox? Here are a few more Holbox tips for your next trip to the Island of Holbox: 

• Bring plenty of cash : There are very few ATMs on the island, and they aren’t always guaranteed to work. Some places accept credit cards, but you can’t rely on them during bad weather when internet service can be spotty. Make sure to bring enough Mexican pesos or USD for your visit.
• Use biodegradable sunscreen : If you plan on swimming in the ocean, it’s important to only wear reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen to protect the fragile marine environment. 
• Be prepared to disconnect: WiFi on Holbox Island in Mexico is incredibly unreliable, and only a few restaurants and bars have WiFi. Be ready to disconnect from the outside world and enjoy every second away from your phone and laptop.
• Don’t miss the street art: One of the first things you might notice in downtown Holbox is the incredible street art. Make sure to take a second to admire the beautiful art.
• Check the weather: When it rains in Holbox, the streets can get extremely flooded and muddy and there isn’t much to do. Try to check the weather ahead of time and prepare accordingly.

Visiting Isla Holbox: FAQs

Here are some of the frequently asked questions about visiting Isla Holbox:

Holbox has been a secret for a long time, although it’s becoming much more popular in recent years. However, it has still kept its small town charm with its lack of paved roads, friendly locals, and beautiful nature.

When comparing Holbox vs Isla Mujeres , it really depends on your preferences. Isla Mujeres is more developed and sees many more visitors. However, Holbox has more of a laid-back atmosphere and rustic accommodations.

People visit Holbox to escape the crowds often found on mainland Mexico and enjoy the incredible nature. You can swim in the calm waters, go on a whale shark tour, visit bird islands, and view the nighttime bioluminescence.

Yes, Holbox is safe for solo travelers. There are tons of travelers flocking here and it’s an excellent place to meet other solo travelers. It’s a small island with relatively low crime rates compared to other popular spots on the Yucatan Peninsula.

Typically 2-3 days is enough in Holbox, depending on what you’re planning on doing. With a few days, you’ll have time to try local street food, relax on the beach, and join a few guided tours. However, more time away from reality is never a bad thing, either.

Final Thoughts: Is Holbox Worth Visiting for Tourists?

Overall, the island of Holbox is undoubtedly worth visiting for tourists. It’s a small tropical paradise that feels like an oasis away from the rest of busy Mexico.

However, make sure you plan your trip around the weather to make the most of it and come prepared with enough cash and plans for the entirety of your trip.

Don’t forget to set aside plenty of time to enjoy the sun and sand–after all, Holbox has some of the best beaches in Mexico.

No matter what you do, you will have an unforgettable time relaxing on the beaches and enjoying the stunning tropical landscapes in Holbox.

• Is Holbox Safe?
• Best Restaurants in Holbox
• Playa del Carmen to Holbox Travel Guide
• Holbox vs Cozumel
• Holbox vs Isla Mujeres

Traveling to Mexico soon?

These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:

Hotels : I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com . If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

Flights : I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.

Rental Cars : I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

Cancun Airport Transportation : I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!

Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.

Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.

Biodegradable Sunscreen : Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list ! Regular sunscreen is prohibited when swimming in the ocean and cenotes in Mexico, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen , which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.

The post Is Holbox Worth Visiting in 2024? Travel Guide + Tips appeared first on Viva La Travelista .