The top 15 destinations to discover in Mexico

Cantinas and cathedrals. Art and archaeology. Mariachis and mountains. Ruins and vibrant reefs. Mexico offers a captivating getaway for those who crave adventure, romance, history, culture, delicious food, and lively festivals.

Don't forget the renowned beaches with crystal-clear waters that beckon you to dive in, along with serene islands where tranquility reigns. From the breathtaking canyons of Chihuahua to the soaring peaks of Veracruz, these are the ultimate spots to explore in Mexico.

1. Mexico City

Ideal destination for art and lively culture

Curious about where to start your first journey in Mexico? Begin in the vibrant capital filled with towering skyscrapers, bustling markets, lush gardens and parks, remarkable museums, and a population exceeding 22 million.

Must-see attractions in Mexico City include “Casa Azul,” famously known as Museo Frida Kahlo, the home of the renowned artist. Enjoy lively moments and chihuahua-sized micheladas while watching a lucha libre (Mexican wrestling) event at the expansive Arena México.

For art enthusiasts, Mexico City is a treasure trove where many of the nation’s leading muralists showcased their masterpieces. Explore Diego Rivera's dramatic murals in the Palacio Nacional and the social realism of José Clemente Orozco in the Palacio de Bellas Artes.

Experience the local culture by drifting along the ancient canals of Xochimilco with a mariachi band playing just for you, or enjoy delicious tacos from the numerous street-food vendors in downtown before catching a performance at one of the city’s 160 theaters. You'll be speechless, yet there's no shortage of activities in Mexico City.

Planning tip: Enhance your stay in Mexico City with a visit to the pyramids at Teotihuacán. This archaeological marvel lies 50km (31 miles) northeast of the city and was one of the largest urban centers in the Americas during the pre-Columbian period. Consider visiting during the spring equinox for a unique celebration.

2. Isla Holbox

Top island for bioluminescence and flamingo sightings

Despite its small size, Isla Holbox boasts impressive biodiversity. Measuring just a mile wide and 26 miles long, it's a premier destination in Mexico for spotting vibrant pink flamingos in their natural habitat (head to Punta Mosquito), catching sight of whale sharks (from mid-May to mid-September), and experiencing the stunning display of bioluminescent phytoplankton lighting up the waters. These shimmering microorganisms create an effect akin to underwater fireworks and are best observed on nights without moonlight.

Holbox (pronounced hol-bosh) is a serene island paradise located off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula.

With no vehicles allowed to interrupt the tranquility (cars are prohibited), sandy pathways lead to endless stretches of beach with warm, shallow waters perfect for adults. The island's one noted downside? Spotty wi-fi, which invites visitors to unplug and unwind.

3. San Miguel de Allende

Top destination for craft shops and folk art

This Mexican treasure offers everything: a delightful spring-like climate, stunning light, remarkable architecture, excellent opportunities for handicraft shopping, and popular art workshops. With an impressive number of galleries per resident, San Miguel de Allende is a must-visit for creatives in Mexico.

The cobblestone city has captivated retirees and enchanted artists since the first art institute was established in a former convent in the 1930s. It later drew the likes of Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Neal Cassady, who came to drink, write, and share poetry in the 1960s, with the latter making it his home until his passing.

Today, the narrow, sloped streets of San Miguel de Allende are lined with boutiques and cafes adorned with vibrant ribbons hanging from wrought iron window bars, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a sepia-toned postcard from yesteryear.

The historic district's buildings follow a palette of saffron, rusty orange, ochre, terracotta, and mustard yellow. For a breathtaking view, head to one of the city's many rooftops, such as Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, a popular choice.

Planning tip: San Miguel de Allende is just a three-hour drive north of Mexico City, located in the state of Guanajuato. Springtime is the perfect season to witness the stunning purple jacaranda trees in full bloom.

4. Bacalar

Top destination for lagoon living and Maldives-like vibes

Bacalar is truly enchanting. Designated as a Magic Town (Pueblo Mágico) by the Mexican government in 2006, it features a stunning jewel-toned lagoon, tranquil spas offering traditional Mexican healing rituals, and a unique bohemian atmosphere.

At the vibrant restaurant-gallery El Manati, diners can enjoy live music alongside colorful indoor murals, while wellness seekers partake in temazcal sweat ceremonies and copal cleansings at the boutique hotel Casa Hormiga.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating on the 26-mile Bacalar Lagoon are the top activities here, famous for its striking hues and dubbed the Lagoon of Seven Colors (Laguna de Los Siete Colores) due to its captivating gradient of blues and greens.

The town also boasts a 90m-deep (295ft) cenote (freshwater pool) and an ancient Spanish fortress. Known as “the Maldives of Mexico,” tranquil Bacalar is one of the best spots to escape the hustle and bustle.

Travel tip: Bacalar is located in Quintana Roo, near Mexico's border with Belize. For public transport, take the ADO bus from Cancún, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum.

5. Guadalajara

Top city for mariachi music, tequila, and exquisite dining

Guadalajara, the second-largest city in Mexico, is a vibrant cultural center in Jalisco. This region is famous for its tequila production and is the birthplace of Mariachi music, as well as charrería, Mexico’s national sport (make sure to attend September’s annual International Mariachi and Charrería Festival).

Highlights in Guadalajara include a lienzo (charrería arena), the stunning frescoes at the Instituto Cultural de Cabaña – showcasing the talent of one-handed muralist José Clemente Orozco – and the three-story Mercado San Juan de Dios, the largest indoor market in Latin America.

Although steeped in tradition, Guadalajara has recently earned acclaim for its contemporary culinary scene, making several appearances on the prestigious World’s 50 Best lists. Experience refined, globalized Mexican dishes and cocktails at Alcalde and El Gallo Altanero.

Travel tip: The charm of Guadalajara goes beyond the city itself. Use it as a starting point to explore Lake Chapala (one of Mexico's largest freshwater lakes), the agave-filled landscapes of Tequila, or delightful Magic Towns like Tlaquepaque or Tapalpa.

6. Puerto Vallarta

Top destination for beaches, adventure, and LGBTIQ+ events

With dramatic and untamed landscapes, Puerto Vallarta is a favored vacation spot for both locals and international visitors. Nestled between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Bahía de Banderas (Bay of Banderas), it’s a playground for adventure enthusiasts who tackle rugged terrains and rappel down waterfalls, while families enjoy the sun on beautiful beaches such as Playa Conchas Chinas, Playa Las Gemelas, and Playa Mismaloya.

The city is a hotspot for LGBTIQ+ travelers, featuring gay-friendly hotels, beach bars, restaurants, and nightlife venues. Couples flock to the Zona Romantica (Romantic Zone) for outdoor dining, and a stroll along the scenic Malecon boardwalk—home to bronze sculptures and street performers—ranks as one of the best free activities in Puerto Vallarta.

There's also a vibrant marine scene, where you can witness humpback whales breaching, dolphins leaping from the waves, and mother turtles coming ashore to nest.

Travel tip: The ideal time to visit Puerto Vallarta for witnessing baby turtle releases is between July and December. Certain hotels, like Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, host these special ceremonies for newborn turtles.

7. Playa del Carmen

Top destination for beach-city vibes

Playa del Carmen offers the best of both worlds: a vibrant city filled with tempting restaurants and stunning white sand beaches (one even connects to a cenote). The palm-fringed Quinta Avenida serves as the city’s lively main thoroughfare, showcasing a diverse array of shops, dynamic street performances, and delectable international dining options.

In this multifaceted beach haven, families construct sandcastles next to digital nomads and adventurous solo travelers, while night owls gather on Calle 12 (12th St) for exciting nights at Mandala, La Vaquita, and Coco Bongo. Playa del Carmen is also known for its diverse rooftop bars, ranging from the stylish UMI Rooftop and Tokyo Kitchen to the relaxed BeRoof.

From Playa (as the locals refer to it), day trips to Riviera Maya destinations like Akumal (famous for turtle sightings) are easily accessible via colectivos (minivans). There are also direct ferries to Cozumel operated by Winjet or Ultramar.

8. Chichén Itzá

Top site for pre-Columbian architecture

If you've always dreamed of witnessing one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá is a must-visit destination in Mexico. With origins tracing back to the 5th century, it stands as the most visited of Mexico's ancient landmarks.

From the towering, iconic El Castillo pyramid (where the shadow of the feathered serpent god Kukulcán cascades down the stairs during the spring and autumn equinoxes) to the Sacred Cenote and the uniquely designed El Caracol observatory, Chichén Itzá is truly breathtaking.

Travel tip: Consider booking a Chichén Itzá tour with an English-speaking guide to discover the fascinating legacy of Maya astronomers. Be aware that the heat, humidity, and crowds can be overwhelming, so aim to visit either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, but remember that the site closes promptly at 5pm. There’s also a captivating post-sunset sound-and-light show.

9. Zihuatanejo

Ideal spot for an Old-Mexico atmosphere

Zihuatanejo flourished alongside its neighboring resort town Ixtapa, which was meticulously developed by Mexico’s tourism agency in the 1970s to mimic the Caribbean allure of Cancún along the Pacific coast.

The popularity of Ixtapa gradually spilled over 6.5 km (4 miles) south to Zihuatanejo, giving it the charm of a laid-back fishing village, enhanced by a few tranquil beachfront retreats like Thompson Zihuatanejo on Playa La Ropa.

In this serene traditional town of Guerrero, you'll find uniquely named beaches perfect for surfing, diving, fishing, and enjoying fresh seafood while listening to the sound of crashing waves.

Stroll along Playa Las Gatas (Cat Beach), said to be named either after local wildcats or the gentle nurse sharks found in Zihua's waters. Alternatively, head to the well-loved Playa La Ropa (Clothes Beach), which is steeped in legend about a Spanish shipwreck that washed ashore silk garments.

10. La Paz

Top destination for tranquil beaches

La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, caters to every type of beach enthusiast. This charming city serves as a perfect launchpad for adventures in the Sea of Cortez, which hosts 39% of the world’s marine mammals.

Just about 40 minutes from La Paz, Playa El Saltito offers a serene escape during the hot days, with its clear waters sparkling with bioluminescence at night. However, Playa Balandra, known for its distinctive mushroom-shaped rock, is often celebrated as one of Mexico’s most stunning beaches.

A must-visit in the area is the UNESCO-listed Espíritu Santo island, where you can camp under a breathtaking starry sky, snorkel with lively sea lions, and spot the clumsy blue-footed boobies. Various operators offer activities here, including kayaking and snorkeling.

11. Tulum

Top destination for wellness and bohemian vibes

Over the years, Tulum transformed from its original name (Zama) into a hidden gem—a tranquil town where jungle meets beach along the Riviera Maya. It has now become a renowned destination for honeymooners, pleasure-seekers, and wellness travelers. Those seeking spirituality will discover a wealth of experiences, including cacao ceremonies, pre-Hispanic sound healing, and open-air yoga classes on rooftops.

Tulum offers a well-rounded experience with delightful restaurants and bars, catering to all budgets—from beachside shacks to luxurious resorts and charming thatch-roofed boutiques like La Valise Tulum.

The beaches are picture-perfect, with Playa Ruinas being the standout, featuring beautifully preserved Maya ruins perched on a cliff that overlooks the Caribbean Sea. The area also boasts attractions such as the expansive Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka’an, the tranquil fishing village of Punta Allen, and the archaeological site of Cobá.

Planning tip: Tulum Pueblo (the town center) is where you'll find the best budget-friendly food and accommodation, though it's a 20-minute bike ride or a 12-minute taxi ride to the beach. Be sure to plan ahead for reasonably priced beach lodging if that's your preference.

12. Los Cabos

Best destination for glitz, glamour, and nightlife

The twin cities of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo are well-known. Cabo San Lucas is famous for its vibrant party scene, while San José del Cabo offers a quieter ambiance with art galleries, luxury resorts favored by celebrities, upscale shops, and extravagant tequila tasting experiences.

These sun-soaked locales at the southern tip of the Baja California Sur peninsula are consistently ranked among the top spots to visit in Mexico.

Beneath the scorching Cabo sun, golfers pursue their passions on lush greens crafted by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, while surfers take on challenging waves.

While not all beaches are suitable for swimming, activities like deep-sea fishing, sea lion sightings, and whale watching (from mid-December to mid-April) draw aquatic enthusiasts back time and again.

13. Pico de Orizaba

Best destination for an extraordinary trek

Pico de Orizaba, also known as Citlaltépetl, is a stunning, snow-capped volcano straddling the Puebla and Veracruz borders. As the tallest peak in Mexico and the third-highest in North America, it reaches an elevation of approximately 5,636 meters (18,491 feet) above sea level.

Though dormant, it last erupted in 1846 and remains a top choice for serious climbers—many professionals train here before tackling Mount Everest. Trekking begins from the quaint village of Tlachichuca, and the climb demands technical skills, making Pico de Orizaba the ultimate challenge for trekking and climbing enthusiasts in Mexico.

If you're more inclined towards lower-altitude adventures, the town of Orizaba offers a beautiful riverside promenade, several impressive museums and galleries, and a unique 'Iron Palace.' A great way to experience Veracruz state's charm is by taking the cable car up to the park at the summit of Cerro del Borrego, which stands at 1,240 meters (4,068 feet).

From this elevated, verdant viewpoint, you can gaze upon the domes and bell towers of the city's historic churches, as well as the majestic surrounding mountains, including the snow-capped peak of Pico de Orizaba.

14. Copper Canyon Railway

Best scenic train journey

The Ferrocarril Chihuahua Pacífico (Copper Canyon Railway) is regarded as one of the premier rail journeys in Latin America. Commonly referred to as the Chepe Express (drawing from the “Ch” in Chihuahua and the “P” in Pacífico), the trains ascend from sea level at Los Mochis to the town of Creel, traversing the breathtaking rocky terrains of the rust-colored Copper Canyon (often called the “Grand Canyon of Mexico”).

As you travel, the train offers stunning views from your window, showcasing alpine forests, subtropical valleys, Tarahumara villages, and glimpses of some of the world's deepest canyons.

You can opt for overnight stays at picturesque lodges perched on the canyon's edge, or indulge in extended adventures filled with exploration, hiking, horseback riding, and even zip-lining in one of Mexico's top destinations.

15. Oaxaca City

Best destination for mezcal and vibrant cultural festivities

Once the heart of the Zapotec Civilization, the state of Oaxaca has emerged as Mexico’s foremost region for mezcal production. Exquisite mezcals from around the state flow into the dimly lit, charming bars of Oaxaca City such as La Popular, El Destilado, and La Mezcalerita. Knowledgeable locals lead thirsty patrons on sought-after tours, allowing them to explore the city through smoky sips (consider checking out Mezcouting and Oaxacking).

The vibrant fiestas in Oaxaca City also delight cultural enthusiasts. The city sees an influx of visitors at the beginning of November during the Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations, when families honor and celebrate their deceased loved ones with continuous vigils, joyful offerings, and lively parades.

A truly unique spectacle in Oaxaca City is the festivities of Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) on December 23. This competition, dating back to 1897, sees participants of all ages carving radishes into imaginative scenes, showcased in the Zócalo to great enthusiasm.

Planning tip: Take a two-hour trip from Oaxaca City to witness Hierve el Agua, an astonishing formation resembling petrified waterfalls. You can choose to travel by bus, rent a car, or hire a driver to explore these mineral-rich infinity pools.