A thought about the “Storehouse of the World”, Mexico, to the average Joe, conjures up images of loaded tacos, chili-fired food, white sand beaches, ancient Mayan temples, lush forests & bars of chocolate! Over the years, the annual tradition of ‘Día de los Muertos’, or literally ‘day of the dead’, has been widely featured by the media. (Celebrated in the beginning of November, the holiday celebrates family members & friends who have died.) These are the things that shape Mexico into the vibrant country that it is. This blog post is aimed at getting you acquainted with the places to visit in Mexico. So, if you are planning to visit this increasingly popular tourist destination, make a point to read it till the very end.
20 Best Places To Visit In Mexico On Your Trip
While you take a trip to the North American country, it only makes sense to cover as many of the below recommended places as possible & check several of the boxes on your bucket list. Blessed with sunny beaches, pristine jungles, natural swimming cenotes (Holes) & lively cities, Mexico has something for everyone. Brace up yourself for memories that are guaranteed to last a lifetime!
- Mexico City
- Guanajuato
- Cancún
- Puerto Vallarta
- Cabo San Lucas
- Tulum
- Playa del Carmen
- Cozumel
- Copper Canyon
- Ixtapa
- Mérida
- Oaxaca
- Acapulco
- Los Cabos
- Akumal
- Isla Holbox
- Taxco
- Palenque
- Teotihuacan
- San José del Cabo
1. Mexico City
With it being the capital of the country & its most visited city, there is little wonder that Mexico City figures in this list. It’s a great idea to kickstart your journey with Mexico tourist attractions like the Catedral Metropolitana/Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral, Museo Nacional de Antropología/National Museum of Anthropology, Palacio de Bellas Artes, Chapultepec Castle & Templo Mayor Museum. While these places are a treat for history buffs, party animals can have a gala time at one of the city’s underground clubs.
Why don’t you, without further ado, browse through these hotels in Mexico City to find one that suits your needs & budget!
Best Time to Visit: March to May
How to Reach
- By air: Daily flights from the United States & Canada operate to Mexico City. You will be required to fly to Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez/Mexico City International Airport, in Greater Mexico City.
- By road: Four intercity bus terminals serve the capital, making getting to Mexico City easy.
- By train: Mexico’s railway network is essentially meant for freight, hence traveling by train is not suggested unless one is in the State of Mexico.
Travel Duration: 3 to 7 days
Nearest Airport: Mexico City International Airport
Top Attractions: Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral, National Museum of Anthropology, Palacio de Bellas Artes, Chapultepec Castle, Templo Mayor Museum
Things To Do: Learn Aztec history at the Templo Mayor Museum, feast your eyes upon art at Museo Frida Kahlo, indulge your sweet tooth in churros
Places To Stay: Barcelo Mexico Reforma, Presidente InterContinental Mexico City, Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City, Hyatt Regency Mexico City, Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico
Shopping Markets: Mercado Roma, Milan 44, Coyoacan Market
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2. Guanajuato
Once you look at the contrasting colors of its buildings against the backdrop of green mountains, you realize why Guanajuato is hailed as the Mexico’s most beautiful city. Orange, blue, pink, yellow, crimson—you name it & the town, one of the best places to go in Mexico, flaunts it! Let it be added here, this is a UNESCO World Heritage city, considering the colonial buildings.
Don’t forget to browse our list of resorts in Mexico, which would give you great options to stay in Guanajuato!
Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year
How to Reach
- By air: The international airport that is nearest to the city, is Del Bajío. It is situated 30 minutes away in Silao. If you are in Mexico City, air travel would take just an hour.
- By road: Budget-wise, this is the best mode to travel, esp. if you are in Mexico City. Simply take a bus.
- By train: Same as mentioned in the ‘Mexico City’ point above
Travel Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Guanajuato International Airport
Top Attractions: Parroquia de Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra, El Cerro de La Bufa, Museo Palacio de los Poderes, Regional Museum of Guanajuato Alhóndiga de Granaditas, Monumento Al Pipila
Things To Do: Visit Alhondiga de Granaditas if you are a history lover, walk down the streets to soak in the surroundings, go to art galleries to see amazing paintings & sculptures
Places To Stay: Hotel Boutique 1850, Casa Tepozanes, La Casona de Don Lucas, Hotel Santa Regina Opens, Hotel de la Paz
Shopping Markets: Centro Comercial Altacia, Mercado de Artesanías, Mercado Hidalgo
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3. Cancún
Let alone it being one of the popular places to visit in Mexico, this coastal city, on the shore of the Caribbean Sea, is in the ‘top 100 most-visited cities of the world’ list! For that matter, it is the most frequented Latin American city. Renowned for its white sand beaches, clear waters & spectacular weather, Cancún is unmissable for all tourists, even though Mexico offers numerous beach destinations. This is because it boasts of fascinating Mayan culture that you would love to learn about.
Once you experience its breathtaking beauty, you would realize that there is little wonder that it ranks in the top beautiful places of Mexico.
Best Time to Visit: December to April
How to Reach
- By air: With excellent air connectivity, Cancún is served by major airlines like British Airways, Air France, Lufthansa & Air Canada. You will need to fly to the Cancún International Airport.
- By road: While highways Mexico 180 & 307 connect to the city, it is recommended that you take a bus & avoid driving. Not only is driving at night considered unsafe in these areas, car rentals are expensive too.
Travel Duration: 10 days
Nearest Airport: Cancún International Airport
Top Attractions: Xcaret Park, Isla Contoy, Punta Sur, Xel-Há Park, Parroquia de Cristo Resucitado
Things To Do: Catch up some traditional Mexican wrestling, sample the unparalleled street food, swim in a cenote (As aforementioned, these are natural water holes that have been formed in limestone caves.)
Places To Stay: Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun, Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina, Secrets The Vine Cancun, TRS Coral Hotel, Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun
Shopping Markets: Tianguis de la 94, Tianguis de la 219, Tianguis de la 100
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4. Puerto Vallarta
Cancún brings us to Puerto Vallarta since it is another beach destination, and hence, on our list of the best places to travel in Mexico. This pacific coastal town is often shortened to simply ‘Vallarta’. Dotted with great resorts, it falls in the state of Jalisco. Apart from beaches—and hence synonymous water sports—it also boasts of a fab nightlife scene.
The rise of Vallarta started in the 1960s, when North Americans discovered it as a vacation getaway, and over the decades, it has become one of the most famous places in Mexico for travelers.
Best Time to Visit: April to June
How to Reach
- By air: With its geographic location, Vallarta is well-connected by air, as well as other modes of travel from Mexico. Lic. Gustavo Díaz Ordaz is the city’s international airport. It also happens to be the third airport in Mexico with the maximum number of flights.
- By road: Roads leading to Puerto Vallarta are relatively safe & the highways modern. As always, you can take a bus.
Travel Duration: 3 days
Nearest Airport: Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport
Top Attractions: Las Caletas, Los Arcos, Olas Atlas, Mirador Cerro de La Cruz, Jorullo Bridge
Things To Do: Eat fresh oysters (They are considered aphrodisiacs!), experience ‘Rhythms of the Night’ performance, go scuba diving
Places To Stay: Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta, The Paramar, Mio Vallarta, Sunset Plaza Beach Resort & Spa
Shopping Markets: Saturday Market Co-op, Mercado Municipal, Old Town Market Viejo Vallarta
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5. Cabo San Lucas
When one thinks of Mexico’s fine white sands, turquoise blue waters & majestic stone cliffs, they are usually dreaming of Cabo San Lucas. Another resort town giving easy access to Mexico beaches, Cabo San Lucas is situated in the country’s Baja California peninsula. Wildlife enthusiasts should make a point to go boating next to dolphins. And who knows, if you are lucky, you may spot a spouting whale just as easily!
Best Time to Visit: May to June
How to Reach
- By air: We strongly suggest taking a flight to Cabo San Lucas, with air being the preferred mode of travel for most tourists. Los Cabos International Airport is the regional airport & about half an hour away from the city.
- By road: Unless you are experienced in driving in Mexico as well as fluent in Spanish, taking a land route to the city is not recommended. If you meet the aforementioned criteria however, take Mexican Highway 1 from Tijuana.
Travel Duration: 4 days
Nearest Airport: Los Cabos International Airport
Top Attractions: The Arch of Cabo San Lucas, Whale Watch Cabo, Mt. Solmar, Playa del Amor, Quivira Los Cabos
Things To Do: Watch a sunset at Land’s End, buy souvenirs at San Jose del Cabo, take a tour of the Church of St. Luke
Places To Stay: Paradisus Los Cabos, Nobu Hotel Los Cabos, Grand Velas Los Cabos Luxury, Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort & Spa
Shopping Markets: Puerto Paraiso Shopping Mall, Pepita’s Magic of the Moon, Las Tiendas de Palmilla
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6. Tulum
Situated on the country’s Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum houses an attraction in Mexico that history lovers can’t afford to miss—an ancient port city used by the Mayans! This town, on the Caribbean coastline, was one of the last to be built by the people of the ancient civilization. The ruins, towering over the sea, are exceptionally preserved. From exploring the Temple of Frescoes to snorkeling in caves situated amidst forests, Tulum is a paradise waiting to be explored.
Best Time to Visit: October to December
How to Reach
- By air: The best way to reach Tulum is to fly to the Cancun International Airport. Cancun is 130 kilometers from the town.
- By road: Once you are in Cancun, the ways to reach Tulum are many. You may take a shared shuttle, ask for a private transfer, get a taxi or even travel in bus.
Travel Duration: 5 days
Nearest Airport: Cancun International Airport
Top Attractions: El Castillo, Casa del Cenote, Parque Nacional Tulum, Playa Ruinas, Cenotes Tankah
Things To Do: Ride a bike around the town, visit Daniel Popper’s sculpture, take a swim in the Caribbean
Places To Stay: Hotel Bardo, Habitas Tulum, Jashita Hotel, Lamat Tulum, Maria Del Mar Tulum
Shopping Markets: Mixik, Kaahal Home, La Llorana
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7. Playa del Carmen
Another of Riviera’s (The term literally means a ‘coastline’.) hip places is Playa del Carmen. While the beaches don’t flaunt sand as powdery as the above-mentioned cities, and the water is not as clear either, throngs of tourists can be seen sunbathing here. Probably part of the reason that it is getting increasingly popular, and counted in one of the emerging tourist places in Mexico is the fact that it’s close to Cancún’s international airport. Geographically, it lies in the state of Quintana Roo.
It may not be a bad idea to visit Playa del Carmen for a mini vacay either. It’s a complete hub with beaches, dance clubs, restaurants & nightspots.
Best Time to Visit: April & May
How to Reach
- By air: As aforementioned, Playa del Carmen is in proximity to Cancún’s international airport. The place is about 45 minutes away from the airport.
- By road: Once you are at the Cancun International Airport, you may take a taxi or even rent a car. If you are a budget traveler, by all means, hop into a bus.
Travel Duration: 3 days
Nearest Airport: Cancun International Airport
Top Attractions: Xcaret Park, Xplor Park, Xenses Park, Corasol, Chabad Playa Del Carmen
Things To Do: Treat your taste buds to traditional Mayan food, swim in a cenote, go visiting Chichen Itza
Places To Stay: Hotel Xcaret Mexico, The Reef 28, Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun, Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Antera Hotel & Residences
Shopping Markets: Quinta Alegria Shopping Mall, 5th Avenue, Sol Jaguar
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8. Cozumel
Described by some to be having a ‘dual personality’, Cozumel is where quaint neighborhoods peacefully co-exist with tourist-friendly spots. An island by itself, it’s famed as a scuba diving destination. Undoubtedly one of the best places to go in Mexico, it is home to the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park, offering diving spots around submerged sculptures! Like most cities & towns in Mexico, you can witness dusty white sands & gorgeous blue waters. The ecosystem gets completed with great air quality. If you like snorkeling, don’t miss the Playa Mia Grand Beach Park.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
How to Reach
- By air: Our recommendation is that you fly to Cancun’s international airport and follow it up with a bus ride to Playa del Carmen. Finally, take a ferry to the island.
Travel Duration: 3 to 4 days
Nearest Airport: Cancun International Airport
Top Attractions: Playa San Juan beach, Museo de la Isla, Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park, Ruins at Santa Rita
Things To Do: Visit Mayan ruins, scuba dive in one of the picturesque sites, spend a full day at a beach club
Places To Stay: Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa, Cozumel Palace, Villas El Encanto Cozumel, Albatros Suites by Bedsfriends, Villa Segovia
Shopping Markets: Sergio’s Silver, Los Cinco Soles, Diamonds International
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9. Copper Canyon
Located in northwestern region, Copper Canyon is a group of 6 distinct canyons that looks absolutely stunning and is also great for adventurous activities biking, hiking, horseback riding and many others. Copper Canyon is deeper and larger than Grand Canyon, and is name is because of the copper green color formed by six rivers that meet at Rio Fuerte before falling into Gulf of California. A different category of people lives in Copper Canyon where they live an independent life and isolated life. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a Copper Canyon train ride that runs from Chihuahua to Los Mochis with different stopovers in between. The whole journey is scenic and soothing to the eyes.
Best Time to Visit: October and November
How to Reach: Take a flight from Mexico City to Aeropuerto Chihuahua Airport and then taking a train to reach your destination.
Travel Duration: 3 Days
Nearest Airport: Aeropuerto Chihuahua Airport
Top Attractions: Cusararé Falls, Recohuata Hot Springs, Lake Arareko, Valle de los Monjes, Valley of the Mushrooms
Things to Do: Biking, hiking, horseback riding and train rides
Places to Stay: Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, Delta Hotels by Marriott Dallas Southlake, Hilton Dallas/Southlake Town Square, Courtyard by Marriott Dallas Flower Mound
Shopping Markets: Galeria Mercedes, MARCO Gift Shop, Casa de la Galleta
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10. Ixtapa
One of the best hidden destinations to visit in Mexico is Ixtapa that will leave you awestruck with its stunning beauty and amazing activities you can try here. The town is famous for producing coconut and mangrove, so you will see the beaches here dotted with several coconut palms. Travelers also get several opportunities to enjoy adventures like surfing, ATVing, birdwatching, snorkeling, diving, and others as Ixtapa is rich in exotic coral reefs. Travelers can roam around on the beaches in Ixtapa or can enjoy a lavish stay at beach resorts here enjoying the stunning vistas of the sea and the sand.
Best Time to Visit: May-December
How to Reach: The best way to reach Iztapa is to take a flight to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport and then take a taxi to reach the city center in around 25 to 30 minutes.
Travel Duration: 2 to 3 Days
Nearest Airport: Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport
Top Attractions: Delfiniti, Mayan Ruins of Xihuacan Museum, Marina Ixtapa Nautica Golf Club, Las Gatas Beach, Playa el Palmar
Things to Do: Surfing, ATVing, birdwatching, snorkeling, diving, enjoy sunset cruise, take a Mexican cooking class, horseback riding
Places to Stay: Cala de Mar Resort & Spa Ixtapa, La Casa Que Canta, Azul Ixtapa, Barceló Ixtapa Beach Resort
Shopping Markets: Mercado de artesanias, Mercado Municipal, Los Patios Mall Ixtapa
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11. Mérida
The best way to escape the beaches in Mexico is to plan a trip to Merida which is the largest and capital city of Yucatán Peninsula. Delve into the true culture and history of Mexico by exploring this gorgeous city which boasts of several art galleries, colonial buildings, museums and theatres where you will be entertained and also know a lot about the local culture of Mexico. At every nook and corner of Merida, you will find traces of European influence especially at plazas, colonial buildings and city squares. The city is quite a vibrant one with great nightlife and several events taking place at almost every night.
Best Time to Visit: December to March
How to Reach: The best way to get to Merida is by taking a flight to Merida International Airport and then take a taxi to reach city center which is around 7 km from the airport.
Travel Duration: 3 Days
Nearest Airport: Mérida International Airport
Top Attractions: Historic Plaza Mayor, Mérida Cathedral, Mayan World Museum of Mérida, Natural History Museum and Palacio Canton, Museo Casa Montejo
Things to Do: Attend one of many annual festivals in Merida, witness Pok Ta Pok, take a ride on horse and carriage, explore free public buildings
Places to Stay: CASA LECANDA, Casa Azul Hotel Monumento Historico, La Hacienda Xcanatun, Kin Casona de las 3 Marías Boutique Hotel
Shopping Markets: Mercado Lucas De Galvéz, Mercado Santa Ana, Mercado San Sebastián
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12. Oaxaca
One of the most famous places in Mexico is Oaxaca which is nestled on the pacific coast of Southern Mexico and is known for its traditional and rustic ambience, great food, rich culture and several historical buildings. It is also known for its vibrant local markets, art and culture, and lively festivals. Visitors can visit this city to know about rich culture of Mexico and also to admire the natural and man-made wonders located here. One of Oaxaca’s most famous festival is Guelaguetza which is celebrated every year in July where you can see costumes, dance, rituals, craft and food of the local people here.
Best Time to Visit: April to May and September to October
How to Reach: The easiest way to get to Oaxaca is by booking a flight to Puerto Escondido airport and then a taxi to cover a distance of approx. 131 km between airport and Oaxaca.
Travel Duration: 3 Days
Nearest Airport: Puerto Escondido airport (Around 131 km)
Top Attractions: Oaxaca Cathedral, Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Monte Albán, Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude, Rufino Tamayo Museum
Things to Do: Partake in the festivities of Guelaguetza, relish the local flavors, visit various historical sites, enjoy free walking tours, explore the local markets, enjoy trekking in Sierra Norte
Places to Stay: Quinta Real Oaxaca, Hotel Casa Santo Origen - Hotel Boutique, Hotel Parador San Miguel Oaxaca, Hotel Casa Santo Origen - Hotel Boutique
Shopping Markets: Mercado Benito Juárez, Mercado de abastos, Mercado de Artesanías de Oaxaca
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13. Acapulco
In the 1950s, Acapulco was one of the most popular tourist destinations but later on the violence hit the city and tourists stopped going there for a vacation. But again, the city has regained its image back and people started coming here again for a great beach vacation. The thrilling nightlife and serene beaches of Acapulco is what makes this city a great place for a holiday vacation. The stunning vistas of Acapulco with turquoise shades of water, golden sands and rolling peaks along with various top hotels and nightclubs makes it a great tourist destination for travelers who want to indulge in luxury and beach fun.
Best Time to Visit: April, May, October and November
How to Reach: The best way to reach Acapulco is to take a flight to Acapulco Airport which is around 19 km from the city center, so taking a taxi ride would be best to cover this distance.
Travel Duration: 2 to 3 Days
Nearest Airport: Acapulco Airport
Top Attractions: Fort of San Diego, La Quebrada Cliff Divers, Acapulco Historical Museum, Capilla de la Paz, Punta Diamante, Barra Vieja
Things to Do: Try the XTASEA Zip Line, enjoy a day trip to Taxco, enjoy a boat ride to La Roqueta, relax on the serene beaches, watch La Quebrada Cliff Divers
Places to Stay: Encanto Acapulco, Hotel Las Brisas Acapulco, Quinta Real Acapulco, Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués
Shopping Markets: Galerías Acapulco, Galerías Diana, Craft Market El Pueblito
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14. Los Cabos
If you are looking for best beach destinations in Mexico then Los Cabos should be in your itinerary which is located on the top of Baja Peninsula. Los Cabos is an amalgamation of sea with the desert and this beautiful destination promises balmy weather throughout the year. Los Cabos also offers fishing, diving and golfing opportunities to visitors throughout the year. Some of the best Mexico’s resorts can be seen on this 30 km long stretch of serene beaches known as Los Cabos corridor. Besides scenic beaches, you will also find various ancient sites and national parks in this area.
Best Time to Visit: May to June
How to Reach: The best way to reach Los Cabos is to book a flight to Los Cabos International Airport and then take a ferry to reach your desired location.
Travel Duration: 4 Days
Nearest Airport: Los Cabos International Airport
Top Attractions: El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo, Marina Cabo San Lucas, Cabo Pulmo National Park, Playa del Amor, Todos Santos
Things to Do: Watch amazing sunset from Land’s End, enjoy a lavish stay at any of the beach resorts, enjoy golfing, fishing and diving
Places to Stay: Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, Hacienda Beach Club & Residences, Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort, Casa Dorada Resort & Spa
Shopping Markets: Puerto Paraiso, Mercado Marina
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15. Akumal
Akumal is a quaint town in Mexico which is known as the nesting site of turtles who come on the shore every year to lay eggs. Many people come to Akumal for a day trip to enjoy the scenic beauty of this place and enjoy swimming with the turtles. Akumal is nestled between Playa del Carmen and Tulum on Riviera Maya. The rich marine life and crystal-clear waters of Akumal makes it a popular diving site and also a feeding ground for endangered species of green turtles. In the year 2017, Akumal was declared a Marine Protected Area to preserve and conserve different species of marine life. A great beach holiday vacation can be enjoyed here as there are quite a few restaurants, bars and shops to enjoy a great holiday.
Best Time to Visit: December to March
How to Reach: The easiest way to reach Akumal is by taking a flight to Cancun International Airport and then a taxi to reach Akumal from the airport which will take around 1 hour.
Travel Duration: 2 to 3 Days
Nearest Airport: Cancun International Airport
Top Attractions: Akumal Beach, Aktun Chen, Yal-ku Lagoon, Xel-Ha Ecological Park, Coba Mayan ruins
Things to Do: Explore Xel-Ha Ecological Park, know the history of Coba Mayan ruins, enjoy water sports like snorkeling and diving, see turtle laying eggs
Places to Stay: Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya, Bahia Principe Luxury Akumal, Akumal Bay - Beach & Wellness Resort, Hotel Esencia
Shopping Markets: Galeria Lamanai, MexicArte
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16. Isla Holbox
One of the most beautiful places in Mexico is Isla Holbox which is known for its Caribbean style beaches with crystal clear waters, dotted with colorful buildings. The beaches here are rich in exotic species of marine life and also for several thrilling activities like snorkeling, jet skiing, scuba diving and others. Visitors can also swim in the waters of Isla Holbox alongside sharks which will definitely going to give you high adrenaline rush. Even if you do not want to indulge in different activities, you can unwind yourself on the sandy beaches or enjoy long walks along the shores, or can even spot over 150 different species of birds like flamingos and pelicans.
Best Time to Visit: December to March
How to Reach: The best way to reach the island is by taking a flight to Cancun International Airport and then taking a ferry ride.
Travel Duration: 3 to 4 Days
Nearest Airport: Cancún International Airport
Top Attractions: Punto Mosquito, Playa Holbox, Cabo Catoche, Playa Punta Cocos
Things to Do: Relish the famous Holbox lobster pizza, marvel at the bioluminescence phenomenon, get great snaps at Holbox hammocks, kayak through the mangrove forest
Places to Stay: Mystique Holbox by Royalton, Hotel Punta Caliza, Hotel Villas Flamingos, HOTEL ZOMAY HOLBOX
Shopping Markets: Balam Art On Feathers, La Choza de Fito, Artesanias Negromaco
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17. Taxco
The picturesque hamlet of Taxco is located in the state of Guerrero in Mexico, tucked away among lush mountains. Taxco, renowned for its charming cobblestone pathways, colonial architecture, and incredible history of silver mining, captivates tourists with its timeless beauty and cultural appeal. You'll come across magnificent facades of Spanish colonial architecture as you meander through its narrow alleyways, such as the well-known Santa Prisca Church, a work of art with exquisite baroque decorations. One of the best places to visit in Mexico, Taxco has stunning natural landscapes, with lush greenery and expansive views that go on forever, in addition to its magnificent architectural designs.
Best Time to Visit: January to April & October to December
How to Reach: After reaching Mexico City International Airport, you can directly book a cab to Taxco which is the best way to reach.
Travel Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mexico City International Airport
Top Attractions: Santa Prisca Church, Mirador de Cristo Taxqueno, Parque Nacional Grutas de Cacahuamilpa, Pozas Azules de Atzala
Things to Do: Explore Santa Prisca Church, wander around Zocalo, Cable Car Ride, discover the mines of Taxco, walk around the streets, visit the Christ Redeemer Statue
Places to Stay: Hotel Agua Escondida, Hotel Posada San Javier, Hotel Montetaxco, Casa Sierra Alta, Best Western Taxco, Boutique Pueblo Lindo
Shopping Markets: Plaza Taxco, Centro Comercial Taxco, El Parian, La Merced, Silver Avenue
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18. Palenque
Nestled amid the verdant landscapes of southern Mexico state of Chiapas, Palenque is a testimony to the architectural and cultural prowess of the ancient Maya civilization. Palenque, a historical landmark, beckons travelers to travel back in time and follow in the footsteps of prehistoric priests and kings. The destination experienced great prosperity during the Classic Period of Maya culture, peaking around in the 7th century AD, before finally collapsing due to neglect and deterioration. Considered as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Palenque's well-preserved ruins still captivate tourists with their beauty and mystique. One of the best things to do in Mexico is to spot on exotic wildlife species like howler monkeys and jaguars.
Best Time to Visit: January to March
How to Reach: Palenque International Airport is the major airport that connects the region to other parts of the world.
Travel Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Palenque International Airport
Top Attractions: Palenque ruins, Palenque Museum, Misol-Ha Waterfall, Agua Azul, Roberto Barrios, Aluxes Ecoparque, Palenque City Centre, Parque Central & Santo Domingo Church
Things to Do: Marvel at the Palenque archaeological ruins, Explore the Misol-Ha & Agua Azul waterfalls, Explore the Bonampak & Yaxchilan ruins, Rafting in Lacandón Jungle
Places to Stay: Chan Kah Resort Village, Hotel Villa Marcedes Palenque, Hotel Ciudad Real Palenque, Hotel Maya Tulipanes Palenque, Hotel La Aldea del Halach Huinic, Hotel Nutuntun Palenque
Shopping Markets: Machorro Carrera Maria Esther, Hernandez Cruz Rocio del Carmen
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19. Teotihuacan
One of the most important archeological sites in the United States of Americas is Teotihuacan, which is situated in the Mexico Basin. Teotihuacan, also known as the "City of the Gods," reached its zenith approximately 450 CE and flourished from the first to the seventh centuries CE. Teotihuacan's colossal architecture is astounding, including famous buildings like the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, the Pyramid of the Sun, and the Pyramid of the Moon. Teotihuacan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to visit in Mexico that honors the inventiveness and accomplishments of prehistoric Mesoamerican societies. Never forget to undertake a cultural odyssey by marveling at its pyramids, murals, and panoramic city views.
Best Time to Visit: April to September
How to Reach: Felipe Angeles International Airport is the major airport that connects the region to other parts of the world.
Travel Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Felipe Angeles International Airport
Top Attractions: Zona Arqueologica Teotihuacan, Teotihuacan Pyramids, Piramide del Sol, Piramide de la Luna, Temple de Quetzalcoatl, La Ciudadela, Museo del Sitio, Palacio de Tepantitla
Things to Do: Heritage tours, Museum tours, Hot Air Balloon ride
Places to Stay: Villas Teotihuacan Hotel & Spa, Posada Colibri, Hotel Quinto Sol, La Finca del Abuelo, Hotel Ollin Teotl, Hotel Boutique Acocalli, Hotel Teotihuacan
Shopping Markets: Antara, Reforma 222, El Palacio de Hierro
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20. San José del Cabo
San José del Cabo is best known for its alluring fusion of modern appeal, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty, which is nestled at the southernmost point of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula. Beyond the shore, tourists can meander through the charming historic downtown's cobblestone streets, where colonial architecture blends with colorful stores, art galleries, and welcoming cafes. This charming destination is enriched with picturesque beaches with golden sands and crystalline blue waters that are ideal for swimming and enjoying water activities like surfing and snorkeling. One of the best things to do in the USA is to visit the San Jose Estuary & Bird Sanctuary to have close encounters with exotic avian species.
Best Time to Visit: December to February
How to Reach: Los Cabos International Airport is the major airport that connects the region to other parts of the world.
Travel Duration: 4 days
Nearest Airport: Los Cabos International Airport
Top Attractions: Playa Palmilla, Plaza Mijares, Mision San Jose del Cabo, Gallery District, Costa Azul, San Jose Estuary & Bird Sanctuary, Plaza Artesanos, Flora Farms
Things to Do: Explore the Art district, Explore the blue flag beaches and carry out water sports, culinary experiences, Whale Watching, Sunset cruise, Snorkeling, Swimming
Places to Stay: Marquis Los Cabos, Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos, Royal Solaris Los Cabos, Viceroy Los Cabos, Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort, Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, Paradisus Los Cabos
Shopping Markets: Koral Center, Plaza Artesanos, Plaza Atrium San Jose
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All in all, with an over 10,000 kilometers of coastline, laced with gorgeous beaches, opportunities to witness coral reefs & submerged sculptures, abundant natural beauty & attractions to learn ancient history, Mexico is a country you might as well visit sooner than later. Our compilation of Mexico tour packages will hopefully be of tremendous help as you plan your trip. Of the places to visit in Mexico, the above 8 top our list. Make a point to visit a few, or even better, all!
FAQs
The best places to visit in Mexico are Xcaret Park & Xel- Há Park in in Quintana Roo as well as Pyramid of the Sun in the State of Mexico. If we were to choose three must-visit attractions for you in the country, we would choose these.
As aforementioned, with its brightly colored buildings, generous greenery & background of tall hills, Guanajuato is widely considered to be the most beautiful city of the United Mexican States.
Our favorites in the capital city of Mexico are ‘Museo Nacional de Antropologia’, which houses ancient Mayan artefacts, ‘Palacio de Bellas Artes’, a palatial building showcasing fine arts, & ‘Chapultepec Castle’, located on a hilltop.
While the culinary culture of Mexico has penetrated the rest of the world, with dishes like tacos & burritos becoming globally popular, don’t forget to buy bars of chocolates for your loved ones when in the country. It is considered to be the birthplace of chocolate. Mexican vanilla is another great present for foodie friends.
Some great collectibles from the capital city are textile souvenirs, taxco silver pottery, wooden Mayan as well as lucha libre masks. You may even want to get a jar of salsa, which is available in all levels of spiciness!
From lovers tying the knot to solo travelers wanting to rediscover themselves, Puerto Vallarta has been the choice of tourists for several decades now—not just for its beauty, but also for the safety it offers. Alternately, you could consider Cabo San Lucas, which is just as safe.
The world-renowned Chichén Itzá, i.e. ruins of an ancient Mayan city, are located in Mexico. Most people recognize the attraction by its huge stone pyramid. The country’s own Grand Canyon, named ‘Copper Canyon’, is another famous landmark & suggested for adventurists.
For the history buff, some tourist places in Mexico worth visiting are Chichén Itzá, Teotihuacan, El Tajín, Uxmal & Zacatecas. All of these are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The best time to visit Mexico is from the months of December to April when the weather remains pleasant and convenient, making it ideal for sightseeing and adventure activities. Plan your Mexico trip during the dry season for a comfortable stay.
You should at least need a minimum of 5 days for Mexico where you can cover the major highlights of the region including the cultural & historical landmarks along with natural splendors. You can even extend your Mexico trip based on your preferences.
