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The 15 best places to visit in Mexico

Oct 9, 2023 • 14 min read

Explore Mexico's stunning landscape and see the best the country has to offer © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

Cantinas and cathedrals. Art and archaeology. Mariachis and mountains. Ruins and rainbow reefs. Mexico makes a mesmerizing escape for lovers of adventure, romance, history, culture, food, and fiery festivals .

Then there are the much-lauded  beaches with clear, blue waters you’ll want to step right into and silent paradise islands without a soul in sight. From the deep canyons of Chihuahua to the peaks of Veracruz, these are the best places to visit in Mexico .

1. Mexico City

Best place for art and vibrant culture

Wondering where to go for your first trip to Mexico? Start in the bustling capital that brims with skyscrapers, markets, gardens and parks , awe-inspiring museums and more than 22 million residents.

Top Mexico City sights include “Casa Azul,” better known as Museo Frida Kahlo , where the celebrated artist lived and died. High-spirited high jinks and chihuahua-sized micheladas are on offer when catching a lucha libre (Mexican wrestling) match at the sprawling Arena México .

For artsy folks, Mexico City is where many of the country's top muralists left behind their most important works. Peruse Diego Rivera's cinematic murals in the Palacio Nacional and the social-realism work of José Clemente Orozco in the Palacio de Bellas Artes .

For a taste of culture, float along the ancient canals of Xochimilco with a mariachi band serenade, or savor piping-hot tacos from the many street-food stalls in the downtown areas before catching a show at one of the city’s 160-odd theaters. You might be lost for words, but you’ll never be short of things to do in Mexico City.

Planning tip : Couple your Mexico City stay with a trip to see the pyramids at Teotihuacán . This archaeological site is located 50km (31 miles) northeast of Mexico City, and it was one of the largest in the Americas in the pre-Columbian era. Visit during the vernal equinox to celebrate spring.

2. Isla Holbox

Best island for bioluminescence and flamingos

For its size, Isla Holbox packs a strong biodiversity punch. Only a mile wide and 26 miles long, this is one of the best places to visit in Mexico to see bubblegum-pink flamingos in the wild (head to Punta Mosquito), catch a glimpse of whale sharks (between mid-May and mid-September), and witness the mesmerizing show of bioluminescent phytoplankton glimmering in the water. Comparable to sparkling underwater fireworks, these glowing micro-organisms are best seen on moonless nights.

Holbox (pronounced hol-bosh) is a laid-back dream of an island off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula .

With no vehicles to disturb the peace (cars are banned), sandy streets lead to endless beaches with warm, inviting water that’s waist-deep at most for adults. The island’s one alleged drawback? Questionable wi-fi, which encourages travelers to disconnect.

3. San Miguel de Allende

Best place for craft shops and folk art

This Mexican beauty has it all: a fantastic spring-like climate, extraordinary light, breathtaking architecture, superb handicraft shopping, and well-attended art workshops. With a high gallery-to-resident ratio, San Miguel de Allende is one of the best places for creative types to visit in Mexico.

The cobbled city has been luring retirees and bewitching artists since the first art institute opened in a former convent back in the 1930s. It then enticed Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Neal Cassady, who came to drink, write and read poetry in the 1960s (the latter stayed there until his death).

Today, San Miguel de Allende’s narrow, sloped streets house boutiques and cafes that dangle multicolored ribbons from wrought iron window bars, and its vibe is akin to a sepia-toned postcard from the past.

Buildings in the historic district adhere to a color code of saffron, rusty orange, ochre, terracotta, and mustard yellow. Grab a birdseye view of them from one of the city’s numerous rooftops, like Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, a firm favorite.

Planning tip : San Miguel de Allende is a three-hour drive north of Mexico City in the state of Guanajuato . Visit in spring to see the purple jacaranda trees in full bloom.

Best place for lagoon living and Maldives vibes

Everything about Bacalar is magical. Not only was it recognized by the Mexican government as a Magic Town ( Pueblo Mágico ) in 2006, but it’s also known for its ethereal jewel-toned lagoon, serene spas offering Mexican healing rituals and a distinct bohemian vibe.

Diners enjoy live music sessions beside bright indoor murals at tropical restaurant-meets-gallery El Manati , and wellness-minded travelers experience temazcal sweat ceremonies and copal cleansings at Casa Hormiga boutique hotel.

The prized activities in Bacalar are kayaking, paddleboarding and boating on the 26-mile Bacalar Lagoon , which is known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors (Laguna de Los Siete Colores) due to its mesmerizing gradient of blues and greens.

The town also has a 90m-deep (295ft) cenote (freshwater pool) and an old Spanish fortress . Nicknamed “the Maldives of Mexico,” unhurried Bacalar is one of the best places to visit in Mexico to get away from it all.

Planning tip : Bacalar is in the state of Quintana Roo, close to Mexico’s border with Belize. To get there using public transportation, take the ADO bus from Cancún, Playa del Carmen or Tulum.

5. Guadalajara

Best city for mariachi music, tequila and fine dining

Guadalajara , Mexico's second-largest city, is a dynamic cultural hub in the state of Jalisco. This is the tequila-producing region where Mariachi music was born, as well as charrería , Mexico’s national sport (don’t miss September’s annual International Mariachi and Charrería Festival).

Must-sees in Guadalajara include a lienzo (a charrería arena), the vivid frescoes of the Instituto Cultural de Cabaña – a testament to the genius of one-handed muralist José Clemente Orozco – and the three-story Mercado San Juan de Dios , Latin America’s largest indoor market.

Despite being deeply rooted in tradition, Guadalajara has recently gained recognition for its modern gastronomic excellence with multiple appearances on the coveted World’s 50 Best lists. Delight in upscale, globalized Mexican cuisine and cocktails at Alcalde and El Gallo Altanero.

Planning tip : Guadalajara's allure extends beyond its city limits. Use it as your gateway to Lake Chapala (one of the largest freshwater lakes in the country), the agave-clad fields of Tequila, or other charming Magic Towns like Tlaquepaque or Tapalpa.

6. Puerto Vallarta

Best place for sand, adventure and LGBTIQ+ events

With climactic and wild scenery, Puerto Vallarta is a popular vacation destination for Mexicans and foreign travelers alike. Framed by the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Bahía de Banderas (Bay of Banderas), it's a place where thrill seekers conquer rugged terrain and rappel down waterfalls, and families frolic on sun-kissed beaches – Playa Conchas Chinas , Playa Las Gemelas and Playa Mismaloya are noteworthy sandy spots.

The city is also popular among LGBTIQ+ travelers; there are gay-friendly Puerto Vallarta hotels, beach bars, restaurants, and nightlife establishments. Lovers take to the Zona Romantica (Romanic Zone) for alfresco meals, and strolling along the picturesque Malecon boardwalk, with its numerous bronze sculptures and street performers, is one of the best free things to do in Puerto Vallarta.

There's also plenty going on in the ocean, where you can see humpback whales breaching on the horizon, pods of dolphins rising from the waves, and mother turtles arriving to lay their eggs.

Planning tip : The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta to witness a baby turtle release is between July and December. Selected hotels like Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa host newborn turtle release ceremonies.

7. Playa del Carmen

Best place for beach-meets-city vibes

Playa del Carmen is the best of both worlds: a thriving city with a bounty of enticing restaurants and pinch-me-please white sand beaches (one is even connected to a cenote). The palm-lined Quinta Avenida is the city's bustling artery with an eclectic mix of shops, lively street performances, and gourmand-pleasing international eateries.

In this versatile beach destination, families build sandcastles alongside digital nomads and solo travelers seeking spirited adventures, while night owls congregate around Calle 12 (12th St) for throbbing nights at Mandala, La Vaquita and Coco Bongo. Another Playa del Carmen accolade is the variety of rooftop bars, from the sleek UMI Rooftop and Tokyo Kitchen to the laid-back BeRoof .

From Playa (as locals call it), day trips to Riviera Maya towns like Akumal (known for turtle encounters) are all within easy reach using colectivos (minivans). There is also a direct ferry to Cozumel with Winjet or Ultramar .

8. Chichén Itzá

Best place to see pre-Columbian architecture

If you’ve always wanted to see one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá is one of the best places to go in Mexico. With origins dating back to the 5th century, this is undoubtedly the most popular of Mexico's ancient sights.

From the imposing, monolithic El Castillo pyramid (where the shadow of the plumed serpent god Kukulcán creeps down the staircase during the spring and autumn equinoxes) to the Sacred Cenote and curiously designed El Caracol observatory, Chichén Itzá is spectacular.

Planning tip : Book a Chichén Itzá tour with an English-speaking guide to learn about the mind-blowing legacy of Maya astronomers . Note that the heat, humidity and crowds in Chichén Itzá can be fierce, so try to explore the site either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, though keep in mind that the 5pm closing is a hard exit. There is also a post-sunset sound-and-light show .

9. Zihuatanejo

Best place for an Old-Mexico feel

Zihuatanejo benefited from the fortunes of neighboring resort town Ixtapa, which Mexico’s tourism body carefully developed in the 1970s. This was a direct attempt to replicate the Caribbean splendor of Cancún on the Pacific coast.

Ixtapa’s hotspot status trickled 6.5km (4 miles) south to Zihuatanejo, which feels like a sleepy fishing village elevated by a handful of relaxed seaside sanctuaries like Thompson Zihuatanejo on Playa La Ropa .

In this blissed-out traditional Guerrero town, there are storied, curiously named beaches that are great for surfing, diving, fishing and seafood-feasting in the presence of crashing waves.

Take a walk on Playa Las Gatas (Cat Beach), reportedly named after land wildcats or the whiskered nurse sharks in Zihua’s waters, or make a dash for the aforementioned Playa La Ropa (Clothes Beach), the town’s most popular beach, which incorporates a legend of a Spanish shore wreckage containing washed silk clothes.

Best place for quiet beaches

La Paz , the capital of Baja California Sur, has something for every kind of beach lover. The city is a delightful springboard to adventures on the Sea of Cortez, home to 39% of the world’s marine mammals.

Around 40 minutes from La Paz, Playa El Saltito feels tranquil and isolated during the sweltering days, and its crystal waters come alive with bioluminescence at night. Though competition is tough, Playa Balandra , with its unique mushroom-like rock formation, is heralded as one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches.

The impossible-to-miss destination in the region is the Unesco-listed Espíritu Santo  island, where you can camp under a canopy of stunning stars, snorkel with playful sea lions and even peek at congresses of clumsy blue-footed boobies. A number of operators run activities here, including kayaking and snorkeling.

Best place for wellness and boho vibes

Over the years, Tulum shed its former name (Zama), and its position as a secluded and sleepy beach-meets-jungle town in Riviera Maya and subsequently ripened into a world-famous pilgrimage for honeymooners, hedonists and holistic tourists. The spirituality-focused traveler will find a host of things to do in Tulum ranging from cacao ceremonies to pre-Hispanic sound healing and open-air rooftop yoga classes.

Tulum is a well-rounded destination with scrumptious restaurants and bars, and accommodations for all budgets, from waterfront shacks to top-end resorts and thatch-roofed boutique boltholes like La Valise Tulum .

The beaches are postcard-ready, the most celebrated stretch being Playa Ruinas with its strikingly well-preserved Maya ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. There are also numerous attractions in the surrounding area, such as the massive Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka’an , the secluded fishing village Punta Allen and the ruins of Cobá .

Planning tip : Tulum Pueblo (the town center) is where the really cheap eats and sleeps are found, but it’s a 20-minute bike ride or 12-minute taxi to the beach. Plan ahead to find well-priced beach accommodations if that’s where you’d prefer to stay.

12. Los Cabos

Best place for glitz, glamor and parties

Sister cities Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo need no introduction. The former is notorious among party-hearty North American crowds, while the latter is more sedate with art galleries, celebrity-frequented luxury resorts, upscale boutiques and over-the-top decadent tequila tasting rooms.

Together, these perennially sunny spots on the southernmost tip of the Baja California Sur peninsula have become two of the top places to see in Mexico.

Under the blazing Cabo sun, golfers chase their dreams on emerald greens designed by legendary champion Jack Nicklaus, and surfers tackle world-class surf breaks.

Not many beaches are safe for swimming, but other outdoor pursuits like deep-sea fishing, spotting sea lions and whale watching (from mid-December to mid-April) keep water babies coming back.

13. Pico de Orizaba

Best place for a superlative trek

Pico de Orizaba is a symmetrical, snow-capped volcano on the border of Puebla and Veracruz states. Also called Citlaltépetl, it’s the highest peak in Mexico and the third-highest mountain in North America, with a summit elevation of around 5636m (18,491ft) above sea level.

Dormant but not extinct, the last recorded eruption was in 1846, and it is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico for serious climbers – professionals prep there before taking on Mount Everest. Treks start from the small village of Tlachichuca, and the ascent requires some technical skills – Pico de Orizaba is the ultimate trekking and climbing challenge in Mexico.

If sea-level thrills are more to your liking, there's plenty on offer in the town of Orizaba, including a beautiful riverside walk, a couple of impressive museums and galleries and a unique "Iron Palace. " The perfect introduction to Veracruz state's most appealing town is to hop into the cable car up to the park atop 1240m (4068ft) Cerro del Borrego.

From this lofty, green perch, you can admire the domes and bell towers of the city's many historic churches and the surrounding mountainous terrain, including the snowcapped summit of Pico de Orizaba.

14. Copper Canyon Railway

Best train ride

The Ferrocarril Chihuahua Pacífico (Copper Canyon Railway) remains one of Latin America’s best rail trips. Also known as the Chepe Express (from the “Ch” of Chihuahua and “P” of Pacífico), trains climb from sea level at Los Mochis to the town of Creel via the sensational rocky landscapes of the rust-hued Copper Canyon (the “Grand Canyon of Mexico”).

Vistas from your window during the train journey include alpine forests, subtropical valleys, Tarahumara villages and glimpses of some of the world’s deepest canyons.

Overnight en route at cinematic lodges overlooking the canyon's edge, or stay for days of exploring, hiking, horseback riding and even zip-lining in one of the best places to see in Mexico.

15. Oaxaca City

Best place for mezcal and cultural celebrations

Once the capital of the Zapotec Civilization, the state of Oaxaca is now better known as Mexico’s primary mezcal-producing region. Fine mezcals distilled around the state make their way to low-lit, atmospheric establishments in Oaxaca City like La Popular, El Destilado and La Mezcalerita, and savvy locals guide thirsty patrons on popular tours to experience the city one smoky sip at a time (check out Mezcouting and Oaxacking ).

The frequent colorful fiestas in Oaxaca City also win smiles from cultural travelers. The city’s population swells at the start of November during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivities, when Mexican families honor and celebrate their lost loves with round-the-clock vigils, joyful offerings, and parades.

One of the most unique things to see in Oaxaca City is the merrymaking during Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) on December 23. During this competition dating back to 1897, the young and old carve radishes into scenes that are displayed in Zócalo to much fanfare.

Planning tip : Venture two hours outside of Oaxaca City to reach Hierve el Agua , a jaw-dropping petrified waterfall-like formation. You can take a bus, rent a car or hire a driver to take you to these mineral-rich infinity pools.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated October 2023

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The Verdict Is In: These Are the Best Places to Visit in Mexico

Best places to visit in mexico.

As the 13th largest country in the world, Mexico has it all. Want to lie down on the sand or go surfing? You have both the Caribbean and the Pacific. Feeling like escaping to a mountain town where they distill tequila? No problem! Itching for culture in a city with millenary history? You'll find several. 

In truth, few places on Earth can compete with this incredibly beautiful, wonderfully friendly and unfailingly fun country. The biggest dilemma every traveler faces is choosing where to go. To help you out, U.S. News released its 2023 rankings of the best places to visit in Mexico. 

Try to go to each of these 15 amazing Mexican destinations at least once.

15. Punta Mita

Located in Mexico's Nayarit Riviera, Punta Mita is a wonderful gateway into the country's Pacific Coast. It's a quieter and more laid-back alternative to nearby Puerto Vallarta. 

The town is known for its luxurious spas and resorts, but there are also affordable and beautiful accommodations near the sea. Life here revolves around the water, so you'll definitely want to participate in watersports and indulge in fresh seafood. The absolute best thing to do, however, is to take a boat trip to the Marieta Islands, where you'll find the most beautiful beach in all of Mexico .

*Note: This list comes from  U.S. News and World Report's 2023-24 report .

14. Playa del Carmen

On the other side of the country, hugging the Caribbean Sea, you'll find Playa del Carmen. A popular destination for international tourists, this city is known for beaches, shopping and nightlife.

It's also close to some of the Yucatan Peninsula's coolest spots, like Xcaret's eco-parks and several cenotes.

Though it receives a healthy dose of national tourism, Puebla is still somewhat hidden from the international eye. That's all the better for those who make the three-hour drive from Mexico City to this colonial town.

Built around the Puebla Cathedral, the historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While walking around, try some of the city's famous foods, like mole poblano and cemitas. Also, set aside a day to visit the Pyramid of Cholula, whose base area is the largest in the world.

12. Mexico City

Even city haters can't resist the allure of Mexico City. Sure, it's loud, there's pollution, and the crowds are unbelievable. But none of that matters when you're walking around one of the most exciting places on the planet. 

Spend time in the large Chapultepec Park, an impressive urban green space that also hides several museums, including the world-renowned National Museum of Anthropology. Catch the Mexican Ballet at the Fine Arts Museum, see the works of Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera and other important Mexican artists, and spend time at the Zocalo, the heart of the city. 

The capital of the Mexican state of Yucatan, Merida might be one of the country's most neglected cities. People love its colorful streets and the buzz of urban life that brings with it chaos, diversity and excitement. 

But the best part about Merida is that you can easily escape to see ancient Maya ruins, cenotes and quiet fishing villages.

10. Guanajuato

Guanajuato is truly one of the prettiest colonial cities in the entire world. The hilly streets abound in color, and cars pass through small tunnels in order to get from one part of the city to another. In the backdrop, the imposing mountains provide scenic views. 

Its city center is another UNESCO site, housing landmarks like the Juarez Theater and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato. For an impressive panorama over Guanajuato, take the funicular up to Monumento al Pipila. And for something truly unique, go to the Mummy Museum, where you'll see local mummies that were naturally preserved by the geological conditions of the area.

Mexico's party town par excellence is not a place you'd go to for peace and quiet. The city is big, loud and rowdy, offering some of the best nightlife in the country. Expect over-the-top night shows, gigantic clubs and bars in every corner. 

But while you party your vacation away, don't neglect to enjoy Mexican culture. Within Cancun's Hotel Strip, you'll find El Rey, ancient Maya ruins as well as the Maya Museum. You'll also be close to some of the Yucatan Peninsula's most interesting spots (some of which also appear on this list). Break off an entire day to go to Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World that's a must-visit archaeological treasure.

8. Manzanillo

With whitewashed houses piled on top of each other, Manzanillo looks as if it belongs on the Mediterranean. Instead, you'll find it on the Pacific, attracting people who want to see a less touristy side of Mexico. 

The vibe is laid back, the seafood is delicious, and the people are friendly. And if you love the world hidden underneath the ocean, you'll be delighted to find shipwrecks and coral reefs that welcome both snorkelers and divers. 

7. Sayulita

Located near Puerto Vallarta and Punta Mita, people come to Sayulita for its strong surfer culture. The high waves of this Pacific town bring in surfers from all over Mexico — as well as the world. Although the spot has become increasingly popular, it has managed to retain its chill atmosphere and stay true to what made it so charming in the first place.

You can also visit the magical Marieta Islands from here or (in the right season) do whale-watching tours. Outside of the water, you can learn about the Huichol people, who are native to the area and who sell their art around town.

6. Isla Holbox

If you want to see what the Yucatan Peninsula was like before it was overtaken by mass tourism, go to Holbox. About 2.5 hours away from Cancun, this island is cut off completely from the mainland, meaning that you have to take a ferry to get there. This guarantees that only dedicated travelers get here, which keeps it a true island paradise. 

Since Holox is part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, you'll have the chance to see some of the Gulf of Mexico's most magnificent wildlife, including sea turtles, flamingos and whale sharks, the largest fish in the entire world.

5. Isla Mujeres

Another one of Yucatan's treasures, Isla Mujeres is located right off Cancun and is accessible by ferry on a 20- to 40-minute ride. You'll find a completely different vibe from the city and a decidedly wealthier (and older) crowd. 

This is the best spot in the Mexican Caribbean for a luxury vacation, filled with time on gorgeous beaches and visits to the spa, just letting the hours melt away.

Ixtapa is Cancun's twin on the Pacific Coast. Although decidedly less rowdy, the city is marked by a string of large hotels, international restaurants and golf courses. Visitors love to take boats out onto the water or do extreme water sports like parasailing. 

If you're into diving, you absolutely have to book a tour to Los Morros de Potosí, where granite rocks make a habitat for various fishes. Of course, you'll also want to try to catch the sunset every single day.

Like Isla Mujeres, Cozumel is an island off the coast of Cancun. But because it is a very popular stop for Caribbean cruises, it tends to be much more crowded and busy. Not that that should deter you from visiting. After all, the island is popular for a reason. 

Whether you come on a day trip or stay longer, get out to the ocean, where you'll find coral reefs teeming with life. You can also take a jeep tour through the inland jungle or visit the Mayan Ruins of San Gervasio, dedicated to Ixchel, the Maya goddess of love and fertility.

Years ago, Tulum was the perfect foil to the buzz of Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Today, the once-sleepy town has a boho-bougie vibe that attracts a young crowd with its green-and-beige palette. But despite its change, Tulum is an amazing destination, especially because of its seaside Maya ruins . 

While here, make sure you also explore the treasures of the area, particularly the cenotes (underground sinkholes) that were sacred to the Maya and that now provide incredible spots for swimming and diving.

1. Zihuatanejo

If Ixtapa is too busy for you, head a bit farther south to the fishing village of Zihuatanejo. This relaxed spot on the Pacific is known for its seafood, particularly its delicious fish tacos. In the city center, you'll find local markets where you can savor regional food and buy local art and crafts. 

The town's most popular beaches are Playa la Ropa and Playa las Gatas, but there are also smaller beaches where you can enjoy some sun and sand. As in most other places along the Pacific Coast, Zihuatanejo offers great spots for snorkeling, diving, kayaking and boating.

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The 27 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

By Scarlett Lindeman

Mexico City is changing rapidly from the influx of foreigners who have recently discovered the city’s infinite charms. There are dozens of new restaurants, parties, and projects that keep the vibrancy of this capital city (with a population of over 22 million) surging while the storied museums, ancient bars, and cultural sites maintain their standing. An intoxicating mix of ancient and new, you could spend a lifetime here and barely scratch the surface. While there's no way you’ll manage to cover all of the must see and dos in one trip, sticking to one neighborhood a day keeps things manageable. No matter how you end up spending your time in Mexico's capital, one thing is for sure—you’ll be scheduling your second trip before your first is even finished.

Read our complete Mexico City travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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The Juarez neighborhood has evolved in recent years. Once gritty, the area is now teeming with great boutiques, bars, parks, and restaurants like Masala y Maiz, which blends Mexican and Indian cuisines, and Niddo, a sunny corner spot that serves a divine brunch. There are loads of hotspots around the leafy central Plaza Washington: La Rifa for artisanal chocolates, Loose Blues for vinyls and vintage denim, and Elly's for natural wines and handmade pastas.

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The former home and studio of Pritzker-Prize-winning architect Luis Barragán has been transformed into a museum in Mexico City's Hidalgo District. Architecture and design lovers frequent the estate to study the artist's ingenious use of color, light, shadow, form, and texture. From the street, you'd never guess the personality that lies inside: The stark-gray façade humbly blends in with neighboring homes, but walk to the interior of the estate and you'll find striking walls in a kaleidoscope of bright colors, fountains, and pools.

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Even if you're not staying at this hotel on the Zócalo, it's worth stopping just to see the jaw-dropping interior. The building originally opened as a department store in 1899. Since then, its art nouveau bones have been carefully maintained: The curving staircase is a replica of the one at Paris's Le Bon Marché , and the antique elevator, made of iron and concrete, was the first of its kind in Mexico City. But the pièce de résistance is the incredible Tiffany stained-glass ceiling, imported from France in 1908.

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Early evening is churro time in Mexico City—families, couples, and friends all go out for a taste of sweet fried dough and chocolate. You'll often find lines snaking around the block outside this beloved churrería (churro shop). There are shops in Roma, Centro Historico, Condesa, Polanco, and Cuauhtémoc.   Most have spiffy interiors with blue and white tile, bright lighting, and long communal tables. Watch the cooks dip, fry, and sugar-coat your long, spindly churro, which is paired with hot chocolate in a flavor of your choosing.

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Drive 40 minutes south of the city and you'll witness the closest approximation to the Valley of Mexico (in which Mexico City lies) before the arrival of the Spanish. The World Heritage Site of Xochimilco, the extensive lake and canal system that once connected most of the settlements in the valley, is an incredible vestige of the area's pre-Hispanic past. Start at the Embarcadero Belem dock to board a colorful gondola -like boat, called a trajinera , and explore the waterways and artificial islands or chinampas .

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Diego Rivera's famous mural The History of Mexico, showcases the Aztec era to the conquest to the Revolution to the development of industry. It's grandiose and captivating, a unique opportunity to learn about Mexico's past. Not to mention it's free: The mural is housed in a distinguished building east of the Zócalo that operates as a government office. Among the office workers milling about, you'll see a mix of local, national, and international tourists who come to be awe-stricken by Rivera’s masterpiece.

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Templo Mayor (translation: main temple) was the centerpiece of Tenochtitlán, the ancient Aztec capital, constructed in 1325 in the marshes of Lake Texcoco. The temple was mowed over and replaced by a cathedral during the Spanish conquest in 1521. Today, the hulking stone ruins lie at the heart of Centro Histórico, embedded in the blueprint of downtown. Surrounded by streets and buildings, it is hard to imagine the temples in their original Aztecan glory, but the nicely organized museum helps paint the full picture.

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The museum, also known as "Casa Azul" for its shocking cobalt blue exterior, is where Frida Kahlo was born, raised, lived, and died. Visitors can take in a few paintings by Kahlo and her husband, Diego Rivera, in addition to other contemporary artists of their era. But perhaps more interesting is the voyeuristic window into their creative world. The home is carefully preserved and maintained; it's easy to image the spaces as they were during Kahlo's time. In addition to their personal effects and domestic materials, the collection of clothes and corsets Frida needed to support her body after her traumatic accident give an intimate look at the artist's daily struggles.

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Located on the outskirts of Mexico City proper, at the National Autonomous University of Mexico campus, the Sculpture Park is totally off the tourist track. Featuring a range of grand outdoor sculptures, the park is best explored by foot. The sculpture space, which looks like a giant crater, is one the top things to spot. It's built around lava (which can be seen in the center) and has wonderful views from the ledge.

Mercado Jamaica Arrow

The city’s principal flower market offers visitors a fragrant, colorful walk through much of the region’s native flora and fauna, available to be bundled into a bouquet and taken back to your home. Available for your admiration are roses, lilies, daisies, ferns, and violets galore, among other rare and special species. Visit during Dia de Muertos to see trucks carting in pink and orange cempasuchil , or Mexican marigolds, for family members to buy to decorate their ofrendas at home or their loved ones’ graves. Build a bundle to decorate your hotel room with—or better yet, to dry and frame as a memory for when you return home.

Monumento a la Revolución Arrow

This landmark, located in the heart of Mexico City, commemorates the Mexican Revolution and is the largest triumphal arch in the world. The main structure evolved over twenty-five years of stops and starts and a major redesign. It was finished in 1938, to comprise an eclectic blend of art-deco and Mexican socialist realism styles. A visit to the top observation deck only costs 110 pesos ($5) and there's a museum underground. You don't need much time to witness the glory of the monument. Saunter around, gawk at the creative architectural stylings of the structure, and walk under the arches. History nerds may be more interested in the small museum below, but more than anything it's an architecturally significant piece, and the observation deck has great views. If you keep your eyes peeled while exploring around town, you'll most likely catch a glimpse of the monument down a main street—but a quick glimpse isn't enough, and it's worth the quick 15-minute trip to walk underneath it.

Omusubi House Arrow

In a small storefront in Roma Norte, the husband and wife team, Ichiro Kitazawa and Varia Gonzáles Manuel work side-by-side in the miniscule kitchen, cupping steamed rice into palm-sized balls. They will sink sauteed sweet potato into the omusubi which are speckled like confetti with purple and wild rice, a marriage of Mexican ingredients and Japanese technique. They met while working at a Japanese restaurant years back when Mexico City was still called DF, the federal district. He had arrived ten years earlier by way of Osaka, as a hippy backpacker intent on photographing Latin America but fell into cooking; and she, from Puebla. “Omusubi translates to tying up or to bring together” Kitazawa explains, “which is how we wrap the rice”—and a sound metaphor for the forging of connections between their two countries.

Cárcamo de Dolores Arrow

Second or third-time visitors to Mexico City who think they've seen everything will find something new here. This historic but infrequently-visited site was constructed in 1951 as a hydraulic water system connected to the city's main water lines. And while it no longer acts as a municipal water work but rather a museum and cultural landmark, it underscores the city's complicated relationship with water. In the lesser-traveled section of Chapultepec, it is currently under renovation and closed to the public, though the massive Rivera sculpture of the Azteca water god Tlaloc out front can still be admired.

Eat Like a Local Arrow

Eat Like a Local, a Mexico City–based company, runs culinary tours that immerse visitors in the city's vast food scene. Rocio, the guide, has long been a food blogger , and her knowledge about the Mexico City's food scene is totally on point. She's also passionate about connecting tourists with locals, and impacting Mexico City in a positive, sustainable way. There's a set itinerary, but she's flexible—so go on, order another mezcal or pork carnitas, if you like.

Museo Jumex Arrow

Museo Jumex houses one of Latin America's largest private contemporary art collections, which includes works by Andy Warhol, Martin Kippenberger, Cy Twombly, and Damien Hirst. Mediums range from paintings and drawings to light and video installations. The building is as distinctive as the art: British architect David Chipperfield designed the 15,000 square-foot white-concrete cube with a sawtooth top. (Plus the Soumaya Museum is just across the square, so you can feed two birds with one scone.) 

Self-Guided Centro Historico Cantina Crawl Arrow

It's easy to pop around in Centro, hitting up a few cantinas to have a drink or two and to soak up the style of these classic, dive-y spots. The more friends you bring and make, the better. Locals and regulars alike hit the cantinas, which maintain a storied baseline for the drinking culture of Mexico City. Musicians pass through, sorrows are drowned, and gains celebrated. Many cantinas serve food, some better than others, and will often gift snacks and small plates if you consume around three drinks, though each spot has its own rules. Beer and tequila prevail. Simple cocktails, built-in-the-glass rum and cokes, margaritas, sangria, rum, brandy, and mezcal. Some cantinas are known for certain drinks, but craft cocktails this is not.

Lucha Libre at the Arena Coliseo Arrow

A giant venue that hosts sporting and entertainment events, the Arena seats as many as 23,300 spectators. It's best known for hosting Lucha Libre wrestling matches. The stadium is sprawling, and some seats are certainly better than others, depending on how much money you're willing to fork out. If you're here because you're a true Lucha Libre fan, make sure to sit in the front row; if you're here to have a fun night out with friends, the cheap seats will do just fine.

Teotihuacán Arrow

The ancient Mesoamerican pyramids of Teotihuacán, in the Valley of Mexico, once served as the largest city in the pre-Columbian Americas. It is thought that during the first millennium A.D. the city had around 125,000 people, including multi-ethnic groups such as the Otomi, Zapotec, Mixtec, Maya, and Nahua. If you have a few days in Mexico City, it's worth the day trip . (Teotihuacán is about an hour outside the city by car.) Leave early in the morning so you can be back in the city by mid-day—and bring sunscreen!

The Centro Zocalo Historico Bodealores   Arrow

The boleadores are dotted around the perimeter of downtown's main square (and almost every other park and plaza in the city) but you'll have a great view of the cathedrals, flagpole, and Palacio Nacional if you get your shoes shined here. Climb up on the elevated perch of the boleador's chair and they will make your boots shine anew. At 50 to 100 pesos ($3 to $6), it's one of the cheapest shoe-shine experiences around. Boleadores are an important part of Mexican street culture and a fixture of pedestrian avenues, a living-breathing mid-century heritage that is not in danger of dying out. But with the proliferation of cheap plastic shoes and mass-market tennis sneakers, "limpiabotes" are a hand-crafted service for giving leather shoes a new life.

Museo Anahuacalli Arrow

Awesome, grand, and out-of-the-way, Anahuacalli is part studio, part museum, and part shrine for Mexican art that Diego Rivera built as an architectural piece uniting past, present, and future to the natural environment. Rivera's personal and expansive collection of pre-Hispanic figurines, carvings, and totems accumulated over a lifetime. The museum itself was constructed around a swath of rocky terrain Rivera and Khalo had purchased for a farm. The main collection features nearly two thousand figurines representing Olmecs, Toltecs, Nahuas, Zapotecs, the people of Teotihuacan, and those of northeastern Mexico as well as Rivera's sketches for murals. There are also temporary exhibits of more modern Mexican artists, with a recent rotation of 30 textural works by Robert Janitz—paintings, large-format sculptures, and an NFT.

Patrick Miller Arrow

From the outside, this dance club looks like dumpy warehouse hidden behind a black gate in Roma Norte. But come on a Friday (the only day it's open), and you'll find a raging party that offers a glimpse of the city's extant disco subculture. An eclectic mix of party-goers show off their moves in dance circles to all kinds of music, from '80s and '90s classics to sub-genres of disco, such as Hi-NRG, Italo, and electro.

Museo Nacional de Antropología Arrow

This massive building in Chapultepec Park is among the city's most famed museums, second only to perhaps the Museo Frida Kahlo . Though the late Mexican architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez designed it in 1964, the mammoth building still looks as avant-garde today as it did then. (How exactly does that giant concrete slab float above a pond?) The museum holds the world's largest collection of ancient Mexican artifacts. Some of the most iconic Mesoamerican artifacts discovered to date can be found across 23 rooms. If you want to understand Mexico's history, then a visit here is a must.

Plaza Garibaldi Arrow

Mexico's roving mariachi bands have been found in this plaza, a few blocks north of the Palacio de Bellas Artes , since the mid-1900s. Though the plaza has deteriorated over the years, it's seen a resurgence thanks to a city-driven effort to clean up the neighborhood by installing new sidewalks and street lamps. It's a cultural meeting point of sorts, where travelers can come day or night (though the best time to go is after 11 p.m.), to watch bands solicit bar patrons, cars, and passersby to buy a song .

Torre Latinoamericana Arrow

This 44-story skyscraper, built in 1965, is the tallest building in Centro Histórico . The tower miraculously withstood both the 8.1-magnitude earthquake of 1985 and the 7.1-magnitude quake of September 2017, making it a rare feat of engineering. The Torre defines Mexico City's skyline (much like the Empire State building in New York) and is a useful tool for orienting oneself in downtown. Head to the top-floor observation deck for jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the city, or to the newly renovated bar/restaurant (one floor below), which has equally impressive views and is almost always empty.

Salón San Luis Arrow

The dance floor at this old-school salon, cloaked in red light, comes alive as locals, tourists, and old timers twirl and shuffle to a live band . Try your hand at salsa, merengue, cumbia, and norteña numbers as waiters in crisp whites with black bow ties circle the room serving liquid courage. There's no shame in bad dancing, so try and learn the steps. (The pros might even show you a thing or two.)

Iglesia San Ignacio de Loyola Arrow

A surprisingly tranquil stop in a high-energy city, this infrequently-visited modernist church is tucked away in plain sight in residential Polanco. Designed by famed architect Juan Sordo, it was completed in 1961 and features a sharp triangular structure covered in handmade yellow ceramic tiles. Show up during visiting hours and you can tour the grounds inside and out. Indoors, the Jesuit temple is encased by multi-colored stained glass windows that catch vibrant fractals on sunny days, with an effect almost like being trapped in a kaleidoscope. It's a place of worship and quiet contemplation, yes, but also a haven for architecture nerds.

La Rifa Chocolateria Arrow

Indigenous to Mexico, cacao has been consumed in the country and played an important role in Mesoamerican societies since 19th BCE; La Rifa continues the tradition with a small roaster on-site. There are a handful of tables sprinkled in the tree-shaded plaza out front, optimal perches for spending an hour or two. Ask to see their production in the back and they will most likely give a tour. The main event is sipping chocolates—water-based and closest to how cacao was consumed, pre-Columbian, before the introduction of the Spanish (and thus cows and milk). The front-of-house folks are happy to explain the finer nuances of their roasting process, flavor-profiles, and history of Mexican chocolate.

Ahuehuete Arrow

This six-seat collection room is a distillate library, a stunning space housed in a centuries-old building in one of Mexico City’s oldest neighborhood. The Porfirio Díaz-era bar and backbar were found in a Puebla antique store and are over 100 years old (once you book here , you'll be notified of the exact location) It'll cost you $75 per-person for a six-spirit sampling, light snacks, and water. Inside, there are only six seats and a knowledgable barkeep/tour guide crafting a rich journey for you and your fellow spirit geeks. While tequila and mezcal are some of Mexico's greatest exports, there are dozens of other plant-based spirits like bacanora, sotol, raicilla, and charanda, distilled in micro-batch quantities in rural communities that never make it into commerical circulation—nor are they intended to. The team behind Ahuehuete has been collecting bottles throughout the years, traveling to rural villages to find interesting batches for their private collection.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Mexico (from popular to underrated!)

Home » Blog » Mexico » 20 Best Places to Visit in Mexico (from popular to underrated!)

There’s no shortage of hidden gems and new places to discover in this diverse Latin American country. Whether it’s culture, nature or beaches you’re looking for, we’ve rounded up our favorite underrated and off the beaten path destinations in this list of best places to visit in Mexico.  

Large resort towns like Cabo and Cancun often take the spotlight as Mexico’s most well-known destinations. And sure, towns like these play hosts to millions of tourists flocking to coasts for beach vacations each year. 

However, we like to think that the best places to visit in Mexico lay outside of these overrun spring break destinations. Mexico’s natural attractions are incredibly diverse, encompassing lush rainforest, towering canyons, mountains, lagoons and of course miles and miles of pristine white sand coastline. 

That’s just the beginning, though — there are so many things to do in Mexico that aren’t just beaches! 

There’s a rich culture and history here too. Celebrated across charming colonial towns and large metropolises. Not to mention the abundance of ancient ruins and sacred rituals passed down through generations. 

And the food… THE FOOD. We cannot mention culture without talking about the UNESCO culinary heritage status-recognized cuisine of Mexico . 

Whether you’re looking to discover a different side of Mexico than what you see in the travel brochures, or just trying to find some incredible adventures, we’ve narrowed down the best places to visit in Mexico from our favorite underrated and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Article Contents

• San Cristóbal de las Cacas
• Mexico City
• San Miguel de Allende
• Isla Holbox
• Puerto Morelos
• Isla Mujeres
• Puerto Escondido
• Pueblos Mancomunados
• Yucatan cenotes 
• Sumidero Canyon
• Hierve el Agua

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Mexico !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Mexico vacation. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Best places to visit in Mexico for Culture

The culture in Mexico reflects a blend of indigenous and Spanish traditions, which vary greatly throughout the country. These are some of the best places to visit in Mexico if you want to get a taste of the diverse history, food, customs and traditions.

1. San Cristóbal de las Cacas

San Cristóbal de las Casa has a way of drawing visitors in and oftentimes they end up staying longer than they intended to. Just stroll the colorful streets and peek into a few popular shops and cafes and it’s easy to see why.

This laid back mountain town is packed with culture, cute cafes, incredible textiles and nearby nature. There are so many fun things to do in San Cristobal , you could easily spend your entire vacation there and not see it all. It’s also a great jumping off point to explore the rest of Chiapas .  

This colorful colonial city in southern Mexico is the capital of the state by the same name and worth a visit on your Mexico bucket list, especially if you are a foodie. Pronounced “ wah-ha-kah ,” the city is known for having some of the best Mexican cuisine in the country.

If food isn’t your main draw, don’t worry, there are still plenty of fun things to do in Oaxaca to fill an entire trip. From photographing the stunning architecture to exploring the surrounding indegenous villages, you’ll be sure to get your fix of culture in this southern capital. 

Tip: This is one of Mexico’s hottest destinations for celebrating the Day of the Dead during the week of November 1st. While this is a bucket list experience for many travelers, it’s also the peak tourism week in Oaxaca and accommodation will fill up months in advance while prices skyrocket. Plan accordingly (and well in advance) if you want to visit Oaxaca during this special time. 

We happen to think Mérida is one of the most underrated and overlooked destinations on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. After hearing rave reviews from fellow travelers, we decided to make our way to Mérida as a stop on our Yucatán Peninsula road trip . 

We were not disappointed. 

With a unique blend of ancient Mayan culture and customs brought by the Spanish conquistadors, we found Mérida to be just as charming as promised. As the largest city and capital of the Yucatán, there are plenty of things to do in Mérida from cultural events to museum exploration. 

And the best part is, Mérida is known as the safest city in Mexico, with a staggeringly low crime rate (compared to all of Latin America) and high quality of living.

Tip: Center your visit around the Plaza Grande in the historical center as it’s where most events take place and surrounded by bars and restaurants. Must-try dishes in this region include cochinita pibil (slow roasted pork), chilaquiles (basically breakfast nachos) and sopa de lima (lime soup with turkey).  

4. Mexico City

Alright so Mexico City with its population of nearly 9 million is not exactly an ‘off the beaten path’ destination, but we think it deserves a spot on this list of best places to visit in Mexico as it’s often overlooked by tourists flocking to Mexico for the beaches. 

We were pleasantly surprised on our first trip to the capital city and fell hard for the modern and beautiful metropolis. We found it to be friendlier, cleaner and greener than we’d expected. And with so many things to do , we followed the perfect Mexico City itinerary to pack everything into one trip. 

Highlights include biking around the city exploring the different neighborhoods, museum hopping, catching a Lucha Libre match , and of course the street food scene. 

Tip: The best neighborhoods in Mexico City for travelers are Centro, Condessa, and Roma (divided into Norte and Sur). Uber is a cheap and easy way to get around the city, but if you are really on a budget, learning the public transportation system will be a big money-saver. 

5. Guanajuato

A gorgeous and colorful city that was once a thriving silver mining town, Guanajuato is now at the top of our must-visit list. This mountain town in central Mexico is quite possibly the most photogenic city in all of Mexico. If you don’t believe us, just do a quick Google image search. 

The cultural hub boasts museums, theaters, music venues and historical sights. The colorful buildings seem to all blend together as if they are on a canvas. This phenomenon is heightened by the fact that there is very little traffic in the city due to the extensive underground tunnel system. 

Tip: One of the highlights and can’t-miss experiences here is to join a walking tour with the city’s famous c allejoneadas , singing troubadours that lead musical tours through the colorful streets at sunset.  

6. Valladolid

This small colonial city on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is perhaps best known for its proximity to some of the best cenotes and ruins in the area. Cenote Zaci is located right in the center of town. Cenotes Saamal & Xkeken are just a 10-15 minute drive west of the city center, and Cenote Suytun, a particularly Instagrammable spot, is just 15 minutes to the east. 

Part of the charm of Valladolid is the slower pace to which it moves than in other big cities nearby. Wander the Calzada de los Frailes, the historical street running from the center of town to the Convent of San Bernardino of Siena, but don’t be surprised to find all the shops closing daily during the afternoon siesta. 

7. San Miguel de Allende

A small colonial town in central Mexico, San Miguel de Allende is known for its temperate weather, vibrant arts scene, and laid-back vibe that draws expats from all over the place. The multitude of expats here means you’ll find a lot of events hosted in English. This is also known as one of the best places to visit in Mexico if you want to learn Spanish. 

While it’s true, San Miguel is somewhat of an expat center, that doesn’t mean you can’t have an authentic cultural experience here. Spend your days exploring the colorful winding streets, pop into as many handicraft shops as your heart desires, or relax in the town’s nearby hot springs to unwind.  

You will know without a doubt that you have arrived in the city of Izamal when the streets become lined with bright buildings painted in a golden-yellow hue. Nicknamed “Ciudad Amarilla” (Yellow City) for obvious reasons, just being present in Izamal has a way of lifting your spirits. 

The reason for the sunny color varies depending on who you ask. Some say it was painted yellow in preparation for the visit from Pope John Paul II in 1993. Others say it was already yellow by then, and was in fact painted to honor Kinichkakmo, a Mayan manifestation of the sun god.

Regardless of the reason, a trip to Izamal is worth a spot on your Mexico bucket list, even if it’s just for a few hours to wander the streets and snap some cheerful photos. 

Best places to visit in Mexico for Nature

The natural landscapes of Mexico are about as diverse as its people, ranging from lush mountains to tropical rainforests, and unique natural wonders. These are some of the best places to visit in Mexico if you’re looking for adventure and want to spend your time exploring in nature. 

9. Sian Ka’an

Inarguably one of the best places to visit in Mexico for nature lovers is the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve in the Yucatán Peninsula. Teeming with wildlife, the diverse jungle ecosystem reserve is home to a diverse population of species offering one of the most unique experiences in the region.

The 1.3 million-acre reserve is recognized as an UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest protected area in all of Mexico.  

There are two main areas of the massive reserve that are best for exploring: Muyil provides access to the jungle, freshwater lagoons, mangrove forests and Mayan-carved canals you can actually float down; and Punta Allen provides access to the sea, including snorkeling and wildlife viewing off the coral reef.

We’ve written in detail about both of these areas in our article about how to visit the Sian Ka’an bioreserve without a tour .

10. Bacalar

Located in the Costa Maya region on the southern Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula is the small town of Bacalar. The lakeside town is known for its stunning scenery, a nearly 300 ft-deep cenote and an old Spanish fortress. 

Bacalar hasn’t felt the rush of tourism yet, and is more popular among backpackers than resort goers, so the vibe is pretty relaxed. 

Lake Bacalar, the lake for which the town was named, is also called the Lagoon of Seven Colors as it appears in seven miraculous shades of turquoise blue. The best way to experience this wonder of nature is to dive right in… both metaphorically and literally. You can book a sailing tour, rent kayaks or SUP boards, or jump right in from the public pier. 

Tip: Don’t miss the Bacalar Rapids (known as Los Rapidos), a 20-minute drive south from the town of Bacalar. This area of the lagoon will provide an entirely different experience —but with the same stunning shades of blues and greens. 

11. Palenque

There is no shortage of ancient ruins scattered throughout Mexico, and they can really start to blend together once you’ve seen a few. However, there are some that stand out, in particular the Mayan ruins of Palenque. 

Tucked away deep in the jungle in the southern state of Chiapas, these ruins were our favorite to visit in Mexico. 

Instead of being caught up in a crowd of sweaty tourists clutching selfie sticks, we were able to explore the site mostly on our own, accompanied by the sound of howler monkeys screeching in the distance and exotic birds flying overhead.

Though it can be a bit difficult to get to, exploring Palenque is worth the effort. Read more about this little traveled area of Mexico, including our tips for visiting in our guide to adventurous things to do in Chiapas . 

12. Pueblos Mancomunados

There’s a good chance you’ve never heard of Pueblos Mancomunados, and that’s exactly why they’re on this list. We discovered these magical villages while on a hiking adventure near Oaxaca City. 

The Pueblos Mancomunados are a collection of 8 indigenous communities set in the highlands of northern Oaxaca’s Sierra Norte region. We found this region to be spectacularily under-hyped for both nature and culture. 

If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience and adventure that’s off-the-beaten-path, we’d highly recommend hiking in Oaxaca’s Sierra Norteindigenous villages .

13. El Chiflon

The 3-hour journey from San Cristóbal is well worth it to visit the stunning turquoise cascades of El Chiflon. We were told this by a few travelers we’d met in our hostel, and we were so glad we listened! 

Situated in the south Mexican state of Chiapas, near the Guatemala border, this impressive falls is just the tip of the Iceberg. Surrounded by forest, with tree-lined paths, picnic spots and aqua pools you can swim in, El Chiflon is a gem and definitely worth a visit if you have the time.

One other thing we learned from fellow travelers, was that booking a tour to El Chiflon left most travelers wanting more time at the falls and less hyped over the other nearby attractions. For this reason, we planned our day trip entirely on our own accord. 

We wrote all about how to get to El Chiflon waterfalls without a tour in case you are hoping to do the same. 

14. Yucatan cenotes

Scattered throughout Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula are a natural phenomenon known as cenotes. 

Pronounced ‘ say-noh-tay ,’ these natural sinkholes were once a source of freshwater for the ancient Maya people and considered to be sacred. Today they are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike as communal swimming holes. 

With crystal clear water, often taking on deep blue or turquoise hues, and sometimes cave-like features including stalactites and stalagmites or long hanging vines draped over the edges, it is easy to understand why the Maya people believed cenotes to be sacred.

Though there are more than 7,000, the Yucatán peninsula is the only place in the world where you can find these unique pools. 

We put together a complete guide to cenotes in Mexico , where we describe in more detail how they are made, and which ones are the best for swimming and photographing. 

15. Sumidero Canyon

Home to a range of endangered species such as crocodiles, spider monkeys and ocelots, the Sumidero Canyon in southern Mexico is like nothing else we’ve ever seen. The towering walls of the canyon can reach up to 3,300 ft (1,000 meters) making this narrow passage of the Grijalva River a sight to behold.

The best way to experience the Sumidero Canyon is to take a 2-hour scenic boat cruise. Lucky for you, we’ve written all about how to take a boat cruise through the canyon on the cheap in our guide to Chiapas (just scroll down to #6!). 

16. Hierve el Agua 

One of only 2 petrified waterfalls in the entire world, Hierve el Agua is a set of natural travertine rock formations that resemble cascading water. Created by mineral-rich springs, the name means “boiling water” in Spanish, but you’ll find it’s actually quite cool and refreshing on a hot day. 

There are two cliffs that make up this attraction; the larger of the two is a white rock formation that looks just like water flowing over the edge of a waterfall. The second, smaller cliff has man-made pools that are perfect for swimming or snapping photos.

We’re written all about how to get to Hierve el Agua in our Oaxaca guide (just scroll down to #3!).

Best places to visit in Mexico for Beaches

With hundreds of miles of coastline, of course the beaches in Mexico are still a remarkable draw and we weren’t going to leave them off this list. These are some of the best places to visit in Mexico if you want to experience white sand beaches without all the crowds. 

17. Isla Holbox

The peaceful, car-free island of Isla Holbox boasts some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in all of Mexico. And the best part is, you’re much more likely to share the beach with fewer visitors here than in popular resort destinations like Cancun and Tulum. 

Isla Holbox (pronounced ‘hole-bah-shh’) is situated in theYucatan, just off the northern coast of the peninsula as part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve. 

Aside from just beaches, the island is known as one of the best spots to swim with whale sharks (from June – mid-September), has a beach with bioluminescent plankton, and a mile-long sand bar you can wade out to and walk along.  

The only way to access the island is by ferry, which we’ve described in detail in our guide on how to get from Cancun to Holbox that outlines everything you’ll need to know.

18. Puerto Morelos

Often overshadowed by its northern and southern neighbors, Cancun and Playa del Carmen , Puerto Morelos is the antithesis of spring break beach party town. Situated about halfway between the two, this sleepy coastal town is the kind of place to stick your toes in the sand while enjoying a good book with a margarita in hand. 

A small fishing village in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, this hidden gem has not been overrun by tourism and retains much of its authentic charm. With pristine white sand beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, and authentic Mexican restaurants, there is still plenty to keep you busy in this tiny oasis. 

19. Isla Mujeres

This postcard-worthy island off the coast of Cancun is where you’ll find some of the clearest turquoise waters in the world. The small Caribbean island is just a 20-minute ferry ride from the Spring Break hot spot, but you’ll feel world’s away. 

The white sand beaches, warm turquoise waters and swaying palm trees aren’t the only reason to visit this island paradise. There are plenty of things to do here including top-notch diving opportunities and swimming with whale sharks (June through September). 

Oh and did we mention the sunsets!? Being an island, this is one of the only places on the Caribbean side of Mexico where you can catch epic sunsets. 

20. Puerto Escondido

… Speaking of sunsets…

The most popular beach destination for backpackers and surfers on Mexico’s Oaxaca coast is Puerto Escondido. This developing beach town with a laid back hippie vibe is one of the best places to catch a wave and an incredible sunset. 

With a young expat scene full of surfers, backpackers and digital nomads, there’s plenty to do here. Take part in a pick up beach volleyball game each night at sunset, or dance the night away with salsa lessons at the local hostel. 

Coined as “the Bali of Mexico” you won’t be surprised to see scooters zooming around with surf boards attached. And while wifi in the town (including cell service) is notoriously iffy, that doesn’t stop digital nomads from flocking to the Selina co-working space to hammer out work between sunsets.

Are you planning a trip to Mexico?

We have lots more resources on travel in Mexico and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Mexico Travel Guide  for all the important travel information, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Incredible Things to Do in Mexico (that aren’t beaches!)
• Best Time to Visit Mexico: When to Go & When to Avoid!
• Best Airbnbs in Mexico for Every Type of Traveler
• Delicious Foods in Mexico You Must Try!

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Which of these places to visit in Mexico are you most excited to discover? Do you have any places you think deserve a spot on this list? Drop us a note in the comment section below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

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Best mexico beaches for 2024.

Mexico is filled with breathtaking shorelines that appeal to partiers and R&R-seekers alike. Whether you plan on exploring quiet beach towns or kicking back at a luxurious resort, a Mexican beach vacation is sure to impress. U.S. News considered user votes and factors like scenery, water clarity, crowd congestion and nearby amenities to create this list of the best beach destinations in Mexico. Help us determine next year's ranking by casting your vote below. Looking for somewhere to stay? Check out our picks for the top adults-only , family-friendly and  affordable all-inclusive resorts in Mexico. (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 holbox, isla mujeres, puerto ángel, puerto vallarta, playa del carmen, puerto escondido.

Sitting on Mexico's Pacific coast about 145 miles north of Acapulco, Zihuatanejo features miles of pristine beaches and cobblestone streets. The city stands out because it's not as commercialized as many of Mexico's other beloved vacation destinations , allowing visitors to enjoy some quality rest and relaxation. Playa La Ropa, which is bordered by picturesque palm trees, is the most popular stretch of sand, whereas Playa Manzanillo is an ideal spot for snorkeling. Meanwhile, secluded Playa Las Gatas is an excellent choice for families and features calm waters and a wide selection of nearby restaurants.

Separated from the northeastern tip of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula by a shallow lagoon, Isla Holbox offers calm, quiet beaches – a stark contrast to its rowdy southern neighbors Cancun and Playa del Carmen. On the western side of the island near downtown Holbox sits Playa Punta Cocos, a stunning stretch of sand known for its incredible sunsets and prime bird-watching and fishing opportunities. There's also the more secluded Punta Mosquito, which boasts a sandbar and shallow water for relaxing strolls and swims. While on Isla Holbox, keep an eye out for the numerous flamingos and whale sharks that call the area home.

Isla Mujeres, situated off the coast of Cancun in the state of Quintana Roo, makes for an ideal day trip or weekend getaway from the mainland. The beautiful beaches that line this island are characterized by their glittering white sand , swaying palms and brilliantly blue water. Playa Norte, the island's most popular beach, features calm waters, beach bars and chair and umbrella rentals. Other must-visit stretches of sand include Playa Centro and Garrafon Natural Reef Park, where colorful coral reefs attract snorkelers in droves.

This laid-back island off the coast of Playa del Carmen is one of Mexico's premier diving and snorkeling destinations. Paradise Beach, an all-inclusive beach club on the island's western side, is popular with families thanks to its calm waters and ample amenities, including a floating water park, daybeds and various nearby vendors. Meanwhile, travelers in search of striking turquoise waters, boat tour options and superb snorkeling and kayaking opportunities will love visiting Playa El Cielo and Playa Palancar. However, Cozumel's sandy shores suffer from one big downside: thick crowds. Tourists descend on the island annually, making it hard to find a secluded spot.

Characterized by its steep cliffs, peaceful beaches and laid-back atmosphere, the unassuming fishing village of Puerto Ángel is a welcome reprieve from the tourist-laden shorelines of other Mexico beaches. The town's main beach, Playa Principal, is within walking distance of several bars and restaurants (though this proximity can lead to some cleanliness issues), while the calm, shallow waters of nearby Playa La Boquilla make for premier snorkeling opportunities. For a more secluded beach experience, consider lounging on beautiful Playa Zipolite. Just keep in mind that nudity is legal on this stretch of shoreline.

Travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path beach getaway will find it in Troncones. Sitting about 20 miles northwest of Zihuatanejo, this underrated coastal town is often overlooked in favor of its more popular neighbor to the south. However, in-the-know travelers will attest that there are plenty of reasons to visit Troncones (delicious seafood and prime surfing conditions, to name a few). With roughly 3 miles of Pacific Ocean shoreline, Playa Troncones is a tranquil place to unwind and watch the sun set. Meanwhile, those looking to hang ten should set their sights on Manzanillo Bay or Playa La Saladita, a nearby surfing hub famous for its long left point break.

Located 25 miles northwest of the busy city center and crowded shorelines of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is the perfect Mexico beach destination for surfers and anyone in search of peace and quiet. Catch a massive wave or spend a calm afternoon sunbathing at the secluded Playa Carricitos. Or if you're a beginner, sign up for a surf lesson at one of Playa Sayulita's many surf schools. For slightly safer swimming conditions and excellent people-watching, visit Playa de los Muertos (Dead Man's Beach). When you need a break from the sand, check out this relaxed town's colorful shops and cafes.

Just beyond the Tulum Archaeological Site about 80 miles southwest of Cancun lies one of Mexico's best beach experiences, Playa Ruinas. Come to Playa Ruinas in the early morning or later in the evening to enjoy the sand beneath Mayan ruins without interruption. Also save time for Playa Paraíso, the most highly regarded beach in Tulum. Here, you can lounge on the white sand and take in the ocean's varying blue hues. However, some visitors warn that seasonal seaweed occasionally clogs this popular shoreline. When you're hungry, you'll find no shortage of mouthwatering restaurants along the coast.

Cancun's beaches are some of the most popular in Mexico, recognized for their powder-soft sands and crystal-clear waters. While many will stick to the shoreline outside their resort , visitors should consider exploring the area's other options, too. Travelers love the relaxed vibe, calm surf (perfect for snorkeling) and clean sand at Playa Tortugas and laud the relatively less-crowded and scenic Playa Delfines. And because tourists tend to favor Cancun, vacationers can find plenty of restaurants, shops and a wide range of resorts just steps from the sand when it's time to retreat from the sun.

Puerto Vallarta is home to superb beaches – some small, some hidden and some accessible only by boat. Surrounded by the Sierra Madre Mountains, Playa Colomitos is the smallest beach in Mexico. Located about 15 miles southwest of Puerto Vallarta, travelers can reach this under-the-radar shoreline by hopping on a brief boat ride or making the 40-minute hike from Boca de Tomatlán. Meanwhile, Playa Las Gemelas features calming turquoise waters and warm sands, while Playa Camarones (Shrimp Beach) is easily reachable by car and is a great place to enjoy water sports like kayaking, parasailing and Jet Skiing.

Situated on Mexico's Pacific coast about 25 miles northwest of Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita is an incredible luxury beach vacation spot. The area is home to upscale vacation rentals and five-star hotels, including a St. Regis and a Four Seasons . Exclusivity and seclusion set Punta Mita apart from neighboring Mexico beaches, allowing travelers to soak up the tranquil atmosphere. What's more, because the lodging options are limited, the beaches are less crowded and better maintained. If you're hoping to enjoy even more elbow room while sunbathing, take a boat to secluded beaches like La Lancha and the Islas Marietas.

Located in Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen once had the ambiance of a sleepy European coastal town. Now, these beaches are among the most popular along the Yucatan Peninsula. Central beaches like Playa Mamitas boast beach clubs that are just as hip, loud and crowded as those found in Cancun, and thanks to the numerous resorts tracing the coastline, you'll likely have direct access to the beach from your hotel. If you'd rather relax than go clubbing, hit up gems like Playa Punta Esmeralda, Playa Xpu-Ha and Playa Paamul.

Positioned along Mexico's southern Pacific coast, Puerto Escondido offers an array of beautiful beaches to choose from. Playa Zicatela hosts annual surfing competitions – visit in late spring or summer when swells can reach higher than 20 feet. But remember, the beach's dangerous undertow is not safe for first-time surfers. If you'd like to practice hanging ten, sign up for a lesson at a beginner-friendly surfing beach like Playa Carrizalillo. Meanwhile, nearby shores like La Punta and Playa Principal offer calmer waves for swimming. After soaking up some rays on the beach, travelers can take advantage of Puerto Escondido's abundant bars, restaurants and shops.

Composed of nine bays and dozens of beaches, Huatulco occupies 20-plus miles of Pacific shoreline in Mexico's southern state of Oaxaca. Those looking for beaches safe for relaxing and swimming should check out small, clean Playa Arrocito and bustling Playa La Entrega, which is known for its snorkeling and restaurant offerings. Visitors seeking a bit of adventure can travel to beaches that are only accessible via boat or hiking trails, such as Bahía de Cacaluta in Parque Nacional Huatulco. Other things to do in and around Huatulco include waterfall tours and fishing charters.

Just a 5-mile drive northwest of Zihuatanejo, this town is known for its numerous high-rise resorts and picturesque, sandy shoreline. The beautiful scenery and impressive sunsets are what draw travelers to this beach town. Ixtapa's main beach is Playa El Palmar, which is populated with water sports vendors and concession stands. Keep in mind, though, that the waves and currents at this beach can be rough, so take caution while swimming. For an ideal beach day, take a water taxi to the car-free Isla Ixtapa, where you can snorkel at Playa Coral or swim in the calm waters at Playa Varadero.

Set about 100 miles north of Cabo San Lucas on Baja California Sur's eastern coast, La Paz overlooks the Gulf of California. It features a modest beach that lines its waterfront promenade, but the standout beaches are a short trek from the city center. Playa Balandra, which sits approximately 17 miles north of the city, features long stretches of white sand, plus warm, shallow water ideal for families. Visitors can rent kayaks here as well. Travelers interested in seeing the coastline and the more remote Ensenada Grande beach on Isla Partida may want to consider a boat tour.

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Home » North America » Mexico » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Mexico Travel Guide (2024)

Spread over a swathe of latitudes, encompassing a myriad of climates and culture, lies Mexico. It’s the land of taquitos , carnitas , frijoles , y pico de gallo . 

Mexico is home to peyote, mountain retreats, margaritas by the beach… and the drug smuggling, body disappearing cartel lords.

It’s a contrast intimidating enough that some travellers never leave their resort! But you’re a backpacker and you want adventure .

Backpacking Mexico is the best way to see real Mexico . You can indulge in cenote diving, street food hauls, cheap tequila, and perfecting your Spanish skills. Travelling is also about exploring places you’ve been told to avoid.

Travelling Mexico offers this in spades. You can dip in and out of the tourist trail and see up close how much better the town an hour away with no tourists is compared to Cancun…

But with options coming out of the wazoo, you need solid pointers to set you off on your adventure in the right way. That’s where this backpacking Mexico guide comes in.

I’ve got you a nice framework to hang your wanderlust from, to take your travels with ease. I want to inspire you to eat more than tacos and see something other than Cabo. Mexico is too freaking awesome squander in the tourist hotspots!

Vamos, amigos! Let’s talk backpacking Mexico .

Why Go Backpacking in Mexico?

Backpacking Mexico satisfies the traveller’s trifecta of needs: it’s cheap, the food is to die for, and both the culture and landscape are suitably removed from your own that you feel you’re being let in on a secret. The secret being this is how life should be .

Plus, ahem, I hear the peyote is pretty good. 😉

Sure, many people from the USA vacation in Mexico. In fact, there are close to a million of them living in Mexico.

So I’m not sure why they get so mad about the Mexicans living in the United States, but I digress. To truly travel Mexico, to go backpacking in Mexico, a certain peeling back of the veil is required.

With free-flowing beer and tequila, plenty of sunshine, and just the perfect lack of responsibility to a job, things can get pretty loose in Mexico. And when you wake up from the back of a friend of a friend’s pickup truck, head still cloudy from that deceptively delicious tequila you might find yourself thinking, hmm perhaps I might do something a little less hedonistic today .

The promise to not party quite so much is a familiar one for many backpackers that might be falling into a traveller trap . Luckily for them, Mexico is overflowing with reasons to go hiking with a side of cerveza (rather than cerveza with a side of stumbling through the back door of a beach bar).

Mexico has both jungles and deserts – both of which are overlooked in favour of its incredible beaches! There are volcanoes to climb, waves to catch, and even oodles of spiritual retreats .

And don’t even start me on the food… Vietnam was my food mecca in Asia, but Mexico makes me moan and groan with culinary delight in the Americas.

Tacos, amigos, tacos! And Oaxacan cheese, mmmmmhm yum…

Backpacking Mexico also allows you to slow down your travels with a 6-month tourist visa offered to most travellers. In this time you can truly sink your teeth into the vibrant culture, learn the language , visit the city with the most number of museums in the world, and listen to the locals about the blend of mestizo, Indigenous, and Afro-Latino cultures that come together in the big, the bold, the beautiful United Mexican States.

Oh Mexico, I miss you!

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Mexico

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Look, you won’t be able to see all of Mexico in one trip. Mexico is deceptively big! It’s about three times the size of France and each state is vastly different.

With that in mind, time and geography are your biggest concerns when backpacking Mexico. If you’re limited in time, it’s best to stick to one region and do it thoroughly .

Decide what your priorities are when choosing where to go and where to stay in Mexico . Are you interested in Mayan ruins, jungle adventures, catching some waves, or eating your way through venerable piles of tamales?

Some states are more tourist-friendly with more hostels, buses, and a police presence. Other states require you to travel off the beaten path and really keep your wits about you. I’m no believer in overhyping the dangers of travel, but I did see the occasional body slung over a bridge in rural Mexico.

However, I very much strayed from the relative safety of the turquoise waters and “gringo trail”. So your adventure in Mexico is likely to be very safe! Anyway, that wee caveat aside, here are a few ideas for your Mexico backpacking itinerary.

When backpacking Mexico, I think a loose plan is better than a regimented itinerary. So feel free to adapt these to your interests!

2-Week Itinerary for Backpacking Mexico: Explore the Riviera Maya

With just 2 weeks in Mexico, it’s to fly into Cancun. Spend a night there if necessary, but stay somewhere downtown so you don’t feel like you’re in a Disneyland version of Mexico. Eat a bunch of tacos and grab a cerveza or two at a local joint where you’ll be introduced to mariachi music.

From Cancun, it’s just a few hours by bus to Chichen Itza. You can stay at a hotel just up the road from this ancient Mayan city to get there early and beat the crowds. It’s worth it to splurge on a guide to learn all about this awe-inspiring place that’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Next up, spend some time walking the cobblestone streets of Valladolid. This colourful colonial town is gorgeous and super laid back with access to cenotes to dive into and cool off in.

If you need some more excitement, you can reach the ruins at Ek Balam. Unlike Chichen Itza, you can still climb to the top of the main pyramid here.

After a few days in Valladolid, head back to the coast to the trendy town filled with things to do: Tulum . Hopefully, you’re not sick of ruins because the ones here are probably the most beautiful! You can spend the rest of your time bumming on the beach and bouncing around the restaurants and bars. You could even consider renting a car in Tulum to truly be able to explore everything the area has to offer with ease!

Continuing back up the coast, you’ve got a few choices for where to stay. Playa del Carmen or Cozumel are both good options. You could do Cozumel on a day trip if you’re pressed for time and Playa Del Carmen is well connected to Cancun Airport.

If you want something quieter, check out Puerto Morelos . Enjoy a few relaxing days before you have to get back to Cancun to catch your flight. If you want to head over to the other coast for a few days, there are some epic hostels in Campeche to call home whilst you explore this historic colonial city.

1-Month Itinerary for Backpacking Mexico: From the Centre to the Coast

Rather than starting out in Cancun (because, all due respect, FUCK Cancun) this trip starts in the capital. Fly into Mexico City AKA Cuidad de Mexico and dedicate at least a few days to this mega-city. Did you know that Mexico City has more museums than any other city?

Honestly, I could probably up and move to Mexico City. But this is a travel guide – not a list of places you might find the author when she has another quarter-life crisis.

The ancient city of Teotihuacan  is a must. Also known as the Birthplace of the Gods, it was once one of the biggest cities in the world, extending its influence across the region and beyond. I’d highly recommend learning Spanish if only to talk to the locals here about the majesty of Indigenous Mexican culture.

After taking in all that CDMX has to offer, it’s time to chill out a bit. A short bus ride will take you to one of the most beautiful towns in Mexico, San Miguel de Allende.

From here, you should check out Guanajuato as well. This city is known for its silver mining history and colonial architecture. It’s also famous for its mummies on display from a cholera outbreak during the mid-1800s if you’re into that dark tourism stuff.

Ok, indulging in oddities aside, now it’s time to head back to the big city – Guadalajara. While Guadalajara has found itself sandwiched between Mexico City and Puerto Vallarta leading to it being overlooked a little, there are definitely a lot of cool hostels in Guadalajara and some damn fine food too.

Just an hour or so down the road from the city is Lake Chapala . There are plenty of villages around the lake where you can stay, including Ajijic . Spend a couple of days here chilling out and enjoying the natural beauty in one of Mexico’s top ex-pat destinations.

After that action-packed trip, it’s time to head to the beach. Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding area is the perfect spot to end your month-long adventure backpacking Mexico. If Puerto Vallarta gets a bit much, you can always head up the coast to Sayulita or down the coast to Bucerias .

3-Month Itinerary for Backpacking Mexico: The Combo

With 3 months of backpacking Mexico, you can traverse the country if you move like a firecracker’s been set off in close proximity to your bum. Of course, you always have the option of lingering a while in places you like.

A good strategy would be to start in one corner of the country and book your flight out of another. For example, you could start off staying in Cabo and end by flying out of Cancun. I could think of worse places to bookend an extended backpacking trip!

With 3 whole months, you can visit all the places mentioned in the itineraries above and add a few others. Definitely go ahead and add some time in the states of Baja California and Oaxaca . They have tons of beaches, gorgeous colonial towns, and abundant nature. If you’re into surfing, you’ll love both of them too.

Also, you HAVE to try Oaxacan cheese… and chocolate. Mmm, I’m freaking salivating just thinking about it! Oaxacan food is insane.

Having more time in the country means you can check out some places a bit more off the beaten path. Staying in Monterrey  (way up north) and Puebla  (near Mexico City) get way fewer foreign visitors, so these are cool places to visit if you’re interested in seeing the less-touristy real side of Mexico.

There are so many quaint little towns, remote beaches, and natural wonders across Mexico that you can fill in 3 months. Slow down, take it all in, and enjoy. And don’t forget to sample a taco from each and every state you visit!

So the best-of lists will inevitably ruffle some feathers, as we all have our secret wee spots that hold a special place in our hearts! Besides, Mexico is simply packed to the brim full of fascinating and beautiful places to visit. I’d hope that each and every one of you budding backpackers of Mexico throw all your fucks to the wind and hitchhike to large amber markets and clandestine hippy congregations in the jungle.

But, you know what, from time to time, popular places to visit remind us why they became popular in the first place: Mexico has some truly awesome cities full of marching bands, salsa verde, clear watered cenotes, and dreamy surf breaks. You can learn to dive one week, and hike a volcano the next. There are museums and art galleries contrasted with backcountry roads.

Inevitably you’ll discover your own hidden gems but these places to visit in Mexico are a good start!

Backpacking Mexico City

Mexico City, home to over 20 million people, is one of the largest cities in the world. Many travellers choose to skip it and head straight to the coast, but these travellers are nincompoops!

Backpacking Mexico City is vital to truly travel to Mexico. You’ve got to see how a capital city seethes with energy to understand what’s at the heart of a country.

And what’s at the heart of Mexico City? A city of contrasts.

LGBT travellers will revel in the delights of Zona Rosa , and all travellers will enjoy the diversity of nightlife. There are high-end cocktail bars, clubs home to DJs that can make the whole place pulse, and streets that come to life with Mariachi bands.

What Central Park is to New York, Chapultepec is to Mexico City. This massive green space is an excellent place to spend a leisurely day in botanical gardens, a castle, and even an old-people zone. Be sure to head inside to explore the only royal castle in the Americas, but get there early; the lines are crazy by the afternoon!

No trip to Mexico City would be complete without a bit of mariachi and tequila . You can easily get a dose of both by visiting the Museum of Tequila & Mezcal and then getting dinner in Plaza Garibaldi .

Here, roaming mariachi bands are available for hire. Order up some tacos al pastor and a cold one and enjoy this traditional Mexican music.

Backpacking Tulum

The Riviera Maya may be famous for its flashy resorts, but that doesn’t mean it’s not for backpackers! You can pick one of the Riviera’s more alternative towns – Tulum – as your place to start backpacking this coastline. You just have to know where to stay in Tulum !

Tulum is surrounded by lush sub-tropical jungle and has a glittering, turquoise water beachfront. There’s also a lot of epic street art here.

Tulum seems to attract hippies that are “lost with purpose” but can always be found with good weed. 😉 So safe to say, that just because Tulum is in the Riviera Maya doesn’t mean it’s expensive and out of reach of the backpacker.

If you’re backpacking with friends, you can even find cheap vacation rentals in Mexico ‘s answer to Byron Bay. And, thankfully, it’s not Cancun, because as mentioned… with all due respect FUCK Cancun.

There are plenty of awesome things to do in Tulum, and you can easily find a cheap dorm bed and rent a bicycle for your stay to explore the ruins and beaches. The most affordable accommodation is in the town (about a 10-minute bike ride from the beach). Tulum is even a decent place to base yourself for an excursion out to Chichen Itza or other Mayan ruins!

So whether you get sucked into the hammock life or you learn how to freedive to explore the cenotes, Tulum will jump to the top of your list of favourite places in Mexico.

Backpacking Cozumel (and other epic Islas )

Technically, Cozumel and the other more famous islands off the coast of Mexico are all still in the Quintana Roo state just like Cancun and Tulum. In fact, getting from Cancun to Cozumel is quite an easy trip , but as I might have mentioned – I don’t like Cancun.

The trouble is, I like everything around Cancun. Like Cozumel!

Cozumel is a decent-sized island smudged off the coast of Playa del Carmen. It’s most famous for the incredible SCUBA diving you can do around the area.

The water temperature remains around a balmy 27 degrees year-round and the visibility is almost always amazing! There is an abundance of marine life that you can see.

Another pretty unique aspect of travelling to Cozumel is cenote diving. Mexico is the only place in the world you can cave dive through this magical cave network and this is really a must-do for water babies!

Isla Mujeres is a smaller version of Cozumel. The SCUBA diving is also incredible here and your choices of where to stay range from high hotels to shabby beach bars. The broke backpacker will find themselves right at home in one of the many budget hostels.

Backpacking Isla Holbox

Hey, let me start off by saying I absolutely LOVE Isla Holbox to my core: that’s why I now tell people to stay away – I’ll be doing the same . Even in the last few years, high levels of tourism are ruining this amazing natural space. 

The truth is, a tiny sand island with poor infrastructure simply cannot withstand constant construction of fancy hotels and growing traffic. The island is flooded for most of the year, the mosquitos are unbearable, and nature is taking the brunt of the repercussions. If you do decide to visit anyway, please try and be a responsible traveller and leave as little trace as possible!

Backpacking Playa Del Carmen

When you’re heading to Riviera Maya, there are a few things to say about Playa Del Carmen. I’ll start off by saying it’s far from the most ideal, dirtbag backpacking destination, but in the same breath, I had an absolutely amazing time here. 

It’s undeniable: you’re going to be in close proximity to painful levels of tourism. It’s a major city on Mexico’s Caribbean coast so you can start to create a picture from that. 

What is Playa Del Carmen’s absolute shining perk is its location. It’s the central point for all the best places to visit in Riviera Maya and an awesome place to enter Mexico. 

Arriving from Europe, Cancun airport is easily the most convenient place to get to. But, as you’ve probably noticed by now, I am no fan of that monster. Instead, we got invited by a mate for a bit of Couchsurfing and were instantly welcomed into Mexico with a cold beer, amazing food, and beautiful beaches. 

If you want a base to explore Quintana Roo and Riviera Maya, Playa Del Carmen is the one. You’re slap bang in the middle to head to Tulum’s Mayan Ruins, Valladolid’s cenotes, Cozumel’s blue waters, Isla Holbox’s remoteness, and Isla Mujeres’ paradise. 

So it might not sound like a backpacker’s ideal candidate for a Mexico itinerary. But if you can see beyond cringey, sunburnt vacationers, I can assure you, Playa Del Carmen is one big happy memory.

Backpacking Oaxaca

When it comes to a backpacking trip to Mexico, few places are as awesome as Oaxaca. This state in southern Mexico is famous for its mouth-watering cuisine and indigenous cultures.

Several indigenous languages are spoken here, but your broken gringo Spanish will still get you by. You could stay a while and go from broken to passable Spanish, though.

The hub of Oaxaca City is where your trip here will likely begin. You can easily spend a couple of days here strolling around the tranquil downtown streets and sampling the local cuisine.

You’ll find numerous epic hostels in Oaxaca as well. Be sure to add a day trip out to Monte Alban – one of the most impressive ruins in the country.

Yes, you can party in Oaxaca City . You can go hiking in the surrounding areas, too.

In fact, there are many villages known as the Pueblos Mancomunados that run an ecotourism project. The money that you do spend here goes directly back to the Indigenous communities. So not only do you get to enjoy hiking through the Mexican mountains, but you also get to give back.

Indigenous culture is strong throughout the whole state of Oaxaca. There is one of Mexico’s mejor festivals –  Guelaguetza – held annually that celebrates the strong Indigenous heritage.

Another big reason I fell in love with these colourful cities was the food. I honestly can’t overhype the Oaxacan cheese ; it’s this glorious ball of stringy, mozzarella-esque (but with stronger, more aged cheese flavour) that just goes well with everything!

And as you head south in the state, you will come to the town of San Jose del Pacifico . This town is famous because its magic mushrooms fall into a deliciously legal grey area.

Unsurprisingly, many people “find themselves” here. 😉 But, it does have a very laid-back vibe, hostels covered in trippy artwork, traditional temazcal sweat lodge ceremonies, and of course, a very encouraging attitude toward mushroom taking.

It actually gets a little chilly up in the mountains so be sure to pack a jumper! And, maybe it goes without saying, but a lot of the hippy stuff actually has deep spiritual roots in Indigenous culture – so be respectful. 🙂

Backpacking Puerto Escondido

Within the state of Oaxaca is another laid-back hippy gem – Puerto Escondido . But instead of the Mexican mountains and magic mushrooms, you’ve got epic surf and doobies in hammocks! 😉

There are surf lessons available for those who have always wanted to stand up on a board but never quite got there! But both beginners and pros will be delighted by the swell here. There are the pumping Mexican Pipeline 20 ft waves, and also smaller waves at beaches nearby.

If surfing isn’t your thing – no worries! You can chill on the beach, chill in a hammock, or chill in style at one of the many beach bars. Actually, the SCUBA divers will love the opportunities to see manta rays, oysters, turtles, and a whole host of tropical fish!

Puerto Escondido also offers more than just the beach. There’s a bioluminescent lagoon that is particularly epic to swim in at night.

While in recent years Puerto Escondido has become more popular, it’s certainly not super flashy or fancy. You’ll see plenty of tourists but more of the broke backpacker/surfer type, as well as quite a few Mexican tourists. This laid back vibe means that you never feel like you’re rushed or stressed like you often do in resort towns.

Plus, not everything has been made 200000x more expensive just because it’s a tourist town. Yeah, Cancun, I’m looking at you…

Honestly, there are so many things to do in Oaxaca that it should be on every backpacker’s to-do list in Mexico, but I can’t stress how epic Puerto Escondido truly is. Come, relax, and let the beach work its magic.

Backpacking Banderas Bay

Located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Banderas Bay is one of the biggest tourist draws in the country. Here you’ll find plenty of beaches and chilled out Mexican towns.

You could spend your entire trip in Mexico bouncing around the bay. Just be warned that you may love it so much that you decide to move there. Trust me – I know from experience.

Puerto Vallarta is the main city in the area and is where you’ll fly into. While it’s famous as a Spring Break and retiree destination, PV is definitely not only for drunk high school kids and old farts. There are many amazing neighbourhoods , each unique and different.

This is easily one of the best beach towns in Mexico . Just go to the main square on a Sunday night and dance with the locals, and you’ll forget that you’re in a super popular tourist destination.

From PV, you can catch a bus up and down the bay to visit several different towns. Bucerias is located just an hour up the coast and it’s a much smaller, more chilled-out spot.

Keep going and you’ll reach Sayulita , which attracts surfers, yogis, and hippies alike. There are heaps of great Sayulita hostels to check out too.

Head in the other direction from PV and then catch a boat to Yelapa . It’s not an island but it sure feels like one!

This town has attracted the likes of Bob Dylan and members of the Grateful Dead. Come check it out for a few days and you’ll see why.

Backpacking Baja California

The wonders of Baja California have long been known to surfers making their way south of the border from the other California. This peninsula extending into the Pacific Ocean is home to some epic waves up and down the coast. Popular spots for surfing include Rosarito Beach and Ensenada.

On the other side of the peninsula, you’ll find beaches better suited for sunbathing and relaxing. Most towns in the south also have diving, kayaking, fishing, and even whale watching from December to April. The most booming tourist towns on the peninsula are located in the Los Cabos area , including Cabo San Lucas .

In between the coasts, Baja California is home to some pretty wild, and almost alien landscapes — as well as some pretty epic hiking trails to go along with it!

Here you’ll find vast deserts and dormant volcanoes. The peninsula is also home to some very famous and thought-provoking cave art. The best place to check it out is the Sierra de San Francisco, which was even declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Baja is popular with sailors, retirees, backpackers, and domestic tourists alike. There are plenty of ritzy rich and famous-only areas, and also plenty of loveable dive bars too.

I think the Baja offers a glimpse into how tourism can affect a place. It can be done really tastefully (and IS done tastefully in some parts of the Baja) and how it can spiritually bankrupt a place.

The American dream can feel at times like a morally bankrupt race to stay in Cabo the longest. Don’t be those tourists.

Getting off the beaten track along this peninsula will reward you a hundredfold. It’s a place where the desert bleeds into the sea. Manta rays, whales, and turtles call this part of the ocean their home.

You don’t need to eat lobster in a fancy restaurant surrounded by washed-up white folks to have a good meal here. Simply explore off one of the trails and treat yourself to some street food.

Backpacking Chiapas

Chiapas is secretly not-so-secretly my favourite state in Mexico . It’s deeply interesting, absolutely stunning, and just a little bit complicated. There’s a sex joke, or at least a relationship joke in there somewhere but I’d be digging.

Anyway, Chiapas, you’re my favourite.

The state itself borders Guatemala to the south and shares many of the same Mayan Indigenous groups. Over 10% of Chiapas don’t speak Spanish as a first language and are of Mayan descent. They’ve never been represented very well politically in Mexico, and this lead to the Zapatistas movement briefly declaring war on the Mexican government.

I say all of this because it pays to show respect in this beautiful state. There are countless secret cenotes, soaring mountains, and eclectic towns nestled in the jungle.

Many people get drawn to the spiritual energy that surrounds the ancient ruins of Palenque and semi-permanently live within the nearby jungle. While 99% of them have good intentions, there is the occasional story of tourists doing a few too many drugs and annoying the locals here.

San Cristobal de las Casas is another incredibly beautiful spot in Chiapas. The iconic yellow churches are home to a blend of Mayan and Catholic traditions involving animal sacrifice.

With so much of the state being Indigenous and historically not having been treated very well, I’d think twice before sticking your nose in every church service just to see if they’re slaughtering chickens. If you get invited along to a service then be mindful that this is someone’s belief system, even if you don’t agree with it.

I mean, you probably know all this! San Cris (as it’s affectionately known) is also a great place to buy amber and macrame supplies. You’ll find plenty of artisans from throughout Latin America stocking up on supplies here and one of my favourite backpackers – Puerta Vieja Hostel .

The city of Comitan is not on many tourists’ to-do lists but is home to the best torta (essentially a deep-fried sandwich) I’ve ever had! It’s the best road trip food known to man!

Be sure to check out as many waterfalls as possible on your trip through the state, too. They’re truly out of this world.

Off the Beaten Path Travel in Mexico

In a country this massive, it’s really not that hard to get off the beaten path in Mexico. Even in popular tourist destinations like Puerto Vallarta, all you need to do is walk a few blocks away from the beach and you’ll be surrounded by locals.

Generally speaking, the further away you are from la playa , the fewer gringos you’ll see. If everyone is here for margaritas on the beach, then you just have to go do shots of tequila in the desert.

A great city to explore that’s a bit more off the beaten path is Monterrey . It’s the third biggest city in Mexico and the closest to the US, yet very few foreign tourists make it here. Once an incredibly dangerous city, Monterrey has undergone quite a transformation in recent years.

It’s surrounded by mountains and full of culture, making it a great base for a couple of days. You can elevate your experience by staying in a locally hosted Airbnb in Monterrey , providing an authentic touch to your adventure.

Another fun city that’s worth checking out is Mazatlan. While it’s true that Mazatlan is a popular spot for retirees, not that many travellers make it here. The city hosts one of the biggest Carnival celebrations in the world, so try to time your visit to be here then. You can drink margaritas as big as your head while stumbling up and down the Malecon listening to live bands.

Finally, there is an incredible spot in the state of San Luis Potosí called Huasteca Potosina . This is one of the many smaller towns that are bursting at the seams with Mexican culture and vibrancy but is completely off the itinerary of most travellers.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

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The perfect Instagram shot and the delightfully phone-less adventures are all on offer in Mexico. Backpackers are spoilt for choice when it comes to landscapes, cultures, and even beers on offer! Narrowing down the top 10 things to do in Mexico is always difficult – but use these to inspire you to find your own top 10 must-dos!

1. Visit Chichen Itza

This ancient Mayan city is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and one of the most incredible places you can go to in Mexico. You can visit the ruins easily from anywhere in the Riviera Maya. Definitely be sure to spend at least half a day here taking it all in. The highlight is the impressive Temple of Kukulkan, which was built to honour a Mayan feathered serpent god.

In my opinion, this is one of those “tourist” things that does live up to the hype. The grounds themselves are quite large so you never feel claustrophobic with the crowds.

Entry is free for Mexicans, and pretty reasonable for everyone else. If you’ve got the gift of the gab you might find yourself a way to shave the cost down a bit.

2. Eat all the Tacos

… But also all the food that ISN’T tacos! There are so many different types and flavours of tacos it’ll make your head spin. Whether you’re eating them at a street vendor or in a beachside bar, delicious tacos will be there to join you.

Forget about tacos with ground beef, lettuce, and cheese. Those aren’t real tacos. Instead, try the local specialties such as tacos al pastor or fish tacos on the coast.

I had this incredible taco while out with a couple of local mates. Utterly spent and drifting up in food heaven, I asked, “So what was in that?” “Lengua, chica.” Tongue tacos… Yeah, they’re freaking AMAZING.

3. Museum Hop in Mexico City

I always blow peoples’ minds when I tell them that Mexico City has more museums than any other city in the world. At over 150+ by the last count, CDMX really is a city full of museums.

Some of the best include the Museum of Anthropology and the Frida Kahlo Museum. Be sure to spend at least a few days in the capital and check out a handful of museums while you’re there.

4. Swim in a Cenote

A cenote is a natural sinkhole that’s formed when a cave ceiling collapses. They were considered sacred to the Mayans and were often used as sacred water sources and occasionally as places of sacrifice.

You can find cenotes all over the Yucutan peninsula, so you’ve got plenty of choices. These are also great places to learn how to snorkel or scuba dive.

For those with the appropriate skills, you can even go cave diving. The same limestone earth that causes the cenotes also creates an intricate system of caves to go diving through. You can dive through one cenote and pop up in an underground cavern… Talk about freaking EPIC!

Even without risking death in the depths of a Mexican cave system, you can still enjoy the crystal clear waters of these cenotes.

5. Listen to Mariachi

Mariachi is a traditional type of Mexican musical group. It’s popular all over the country.

In addition to their great music, the mariachi bands are famous for their traditional outfits. Mariachi bands are not that hard to find, as they play in restaurants, bars, and live music venues all over Mexico. Plaza Garibaldi in Mexico City is one of the best places to hear some mariachi.

I love the all-female mariachi band – same fiesta energy, but make it fuck the patriarchy. 😉

6. See the Lucha Libre Fights

The high-flying, colourful mask-wearing luchadores of Mexico’s famous style of wrestling put on an amazing show. Lucha libre is a huge part of Mexican culture and thus a can’t-miss when backpacking Mexico. The best place to see the fights is Arena Mexico in Mexico City, but there are also great fights in Guadalajara.

7. Hit the Beach

Most travellers to Mexico have some beach time planned – and for good reason! Mexico is home to every kind of beach you could imagine.

There are white sand beaches with turquoise water. Others have great waves for surfing. Hell, there are even nudist beaches if that’s your scene!

Go ahead and order up a margarita, kick back, and relax. But, if I can rain on your beachy parade for a moment, alcohol and the beach actually don’t always mix hella well. It’s way too easy to drown in the waters of a foreign country.

8. Drink Tequila (and Mezcal)

Nobody does tequila quite like Mexico! This world-famous booze is distilled from the blue agave plant and is known to be the start (or end) to wild nights. It actually comes from the town of Tequila, which you can visit easily from Guadalajara.

You’ll also want to try some mezcal, which is kind of like tequila’s older, more civilized cousin. Even the best tequila can whisper bad ideas to you like take your shirt off and climb a street pole…

Mezcal, on the other hand, will hold your hand and lead you gently to the altar of drunken oblivion. One minute you’re laughing and having a good time; the next minute you’re singing Billy Joel in a remote Mexican town in which you are the only English speaker. Yeah, mezcal is a deliciously sneaky drink!

Whichever one you order, don’t try to do it as a shot with salt and lime. That’s insulting to good tequila. Just sip it casually and enjoy!

9. Explore a Local Market

Markets are the lifeblood of any city. If you want to put your Spanish to the test, you need to avoid the gringos. To avoid the gringos, head deep into the bowls of a Mexican market.

You can barter for new clothes, pieces of high-quality amber, and then wash it all down with carnitas or tamales. I personally come to Mexico with an empty backpack and buy all my clothes in San Cristobal De Las Casas.

You’ll be sure to find dozens of macrame artists plying most marketplaces too. Give it long enough travelling Central America , and you might find yourself amongst the throng of macrame-making hippy vendors!

10. Hike a volcano

Yes, Mexico has epic beaches. Mexico also has its share of famous desert landscapes. (Peyote calls the desert its home actually…) But Mexico isn’t done with nature just yet.

3 of the most famous volcanic peaks in Mexico are Iztaccíhuatl, Pico de Orizaba, and Popocatépetl – all within a few hours from Mexico City. Iztaccíhuatl is so high that you can experience mal de montaña (altitude sickness) so be prepared.

If you’re not into hiking, you can see these stunning structures in some of Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos and enjoy leisurely strolls in the cute towns around them. There are hostels in Puebla that make it great for solo travellers too.

Although on a sombre note, the glacier Ayoloco that used to grace Iztaccíhuatl has been declared extinct. There is a memorial plaque there, and I have to say, it’s such a tender moment to face the future in such a way like this. As humans we can’t help but anthropomorphize; yet there is real grief for the global inaction to do anything to limit the death of another glacier.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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When backpacking Mexico, you’re spoiled for choices as far as accommodation goes. In popular tourist areas and the big cities, you’ve got great Mexican hostels to choose from.

It’s also easy to find a decent hotel without spending too much, and eco-friendly accommodation is also on the rise. While Mexico isn’t as cheap as travelling Southeast Asia, it’s definitely not expensive!

But in order to save your coins, your best bet is to live the hostel life . Luckily, the hostel scene in Mexico is full of dreamers and artists. So many of the hostels have such incredible artwork – and if painting is a skill of yours there might be a way to score yourself free accommodation in exchange for contributing to the art of the hostel.

The average price for a hostel ranges between $10 – $20 per night . There’s not much better than chilling in a hostel by the beach and being able to surf all day before enjoying a cerveza and lime at sunset.

When that one guy at the hostel has told you the story about how he almost became an international drug smuggler but then he remembered about his ethics so he just dodged taxes instead, booking an Airbnb can seem more appealing for a night. Mexico has a huge range of good quality – and relatively cheap – Airbnbs available too. Sometimes you need a vacation from your vacation, right?

In between swanky Airbnbs and party hostels are a bunch of great guesthouses and homestays. Many of these aren’t listed online but are well known via word of mouth.

Wherever you choose to stay in Mexico, it’s not going to be expensive – but it will be a great time!

And here’s a quick insider tip: If you want to see all – and I mean ALL – hostel options in Mexico, be sure to check out BOOKING.COM . You can even filter your personal travel needs to find the perfect place for you.

The Best Places To Stay in Mexico

Mexico can be an incredibly cheap place even if you’re travelling solo . It can also be incredibly expensive – all you have to do is stay in some glitzy hotel in Cancun and buy marked-up drugs and never leave the resort. Damn you, Cancun.

Anyway, enough of my gripes with the world’s biggest waste of time. The cost of backpacking in Mexico will depend on a lot of factors.

If you do everything the local way, your money will go very far here! It’s definitely possible to get by on $40-50 a day and live VERY comfortably.

If you’re into street food and hole-in-the-wall local joints, your food bill in Mexico will be very small. Many local restaurants often have a set menu at lunch for just $3 – $4 that will keep you full.

A great thing about travelling in Mexico is the wide array of cheap or free activities . It costs nothing to sit on the beach, after all.

There are plenty of parks, town squares, and beautiful churches you can visit for free. Museums are less than $10. Chichen Itza is the only place to see ruins which are quite expensive at around $30.

You can also pick up an eSIM for Mexico before you travel for pretty cheap, depending on how long you visit for it can cost just over £1 a day for unlimited internet.

A Daily Budget in Mexico

Your daily budget will of course vary depending on your personal style and what you wish to do. The table below however is intended as a guide.

Money in Mexico

Mexico’s currency is the peso (MXN). As of April 2023, the exchange rate hovers around 18 MXN to $1 USD .

You’ll need cash for things like local bus rides, street food, and tips. You’ll be able to use a credit card easily, especially in big cities and beach towns. Make sure you have a card that has no foreign transaction fees and don’t forget to tell your bank where you’re headed.

You should always hide some emergency cash on you. You never know when a bribe legitimate “fine” may be required to get you through a checkpoint.

All the major cities and town will have a variety of banks but be aware that smaller towns and villages may not. It’s also possible they will run out of cash fairly quickly, so make sure you keep a decent (but not too decent) amount of cash on you. You may be charged a fee at the ATM by both the local bank and your bank.

For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends  Wise  – The artist formerly known as Transferwise! Our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods,

Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks. Really, it even beats out Western Union .

Travel Tips – Mexico on a Budget

While the $1 beers and $3 lunches can make budget backpacking a breeze here, it’s still easy to slip over your budget when you’re in beach mode. Other than the standard budget backpacking tips there are a few extra tips I’d suggest for those backpacking Mexico.

• Camp: Camping in Mexico isn’t very common, but there are definitely places where it’s an option. Your safest bet is to travel in a campervan and find official campgrounds. Tent camping is possible in some places, including the beach towns of Bucerias and Sayulita, north from Puerto Vallarta. Or, if you’re feeling real adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a  backpacking hammock . Honestly, almost anywhere can become a camping spot in Mexico if you’re discreet enough.
• Cook your own food:  If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food – I recommend bringing a  portable backpacking stove .
• Book your transportation early:  Plane tickets are much cheaper if you purchase them in advance, especially with Mexico’s budget airlines.
• Couchsurf:  Especially in the big cities in Mexico, it’s not too hard to find a host whose couch you can crash on. They might be expats who are working there or locals. Learn how to couchsurf to make some real friendships and see this country from the perspective of locals.
• Hitchhike: Depending on where you are in the country, attitudes will vary to hitchhikers. Some people will be kind of confused and others will spot a fellow macrame-making-patched-up-clothes dirtbag and pick up instantly. It helps to speak Spanish so you can explain what you’re doing and don’t end up paying for a ride you didn’t want to. Still, it will open your travels to more adventures and will save you dollaroonies.

Why You Should Travel Mexico with a Water Bottle

Because plastic sucks, spending money on water served in plastic is dumb, and, ultimately, we’re better than that.

Single-use plastic is shit. It’s poisoning our planet, and we only get one of those. Please, stop using it: we can’t save the world overnight, but we can at least be a part of the solution and not the problem.

When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, it’s important to strive to leave it better than when you arrived. That’s when travel becomes truly meaningful. Well, that’s what we believe at The Broke Backpacker .

Whether you buy a fancy filtered bottle or just contract Giardia and develop a constitution of steel after the fourth round of antibiotics. The point is the same: do your part. Be good to this beautiful spinning top we love to travel to.

That said, you should totally get a filtered water bottle . They’re a bloody dream!

You can drink water from ANYWHERE. And you won’t be spending a cent on bottles of water either. These things ARE the best thing since sliced bread.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

The most popular time to visit Mexico is generally between December and April . These are the driest and coolest months in coastal destinations like Puerto Vallarta and Cancun. Of course, this is also high season.

That means the biggest crowds and the highest prices. Consider travelling in the shoulder season if you don’t mind a little heat and possibly rain. Your wallet will thank you!

Keep in mind that Mexico is a huge country with diverse landscapes. While it’s almost always hot on the coast, it can get downright chilly in Mexico City and other places at a higher elevation. You may actually need some warm clothes for the winter months.

With a country as big as Mexico, there are multiple “best times of the year” to visit. But in general, accepting a little bit of rain along the coast and slightly colder temperatures at altitude, and visiting outside of December – April will have you a cheaper and less crowded backpacking trip.

If you’re living the boat life and sailing the coast of Mexico, you’ll want to avoid July – October as this is hurricane season. The Baja fills with sailors during December – April, too, so it really depends what you want to get out of your trip to Mexico as to when the best time to visit is.

What to Pack for Mexico

What you decide to pack will depend on where you’re going, what activities you have planned, and what the weather will be like. If you’re just going to hang on the beach, you can just show up in your swimsuit and tank top and be ready to rock. Buuuuttt, bring a pair of nicer clothes if you want to go out to the clubs.

Be sure to pack some decent shoes if you plan on exploring the cities, and good hiking shoes and clothes for any outdoor activities. It’s also a good idea to bring an extra day bag to carry with you to the beach or for big sightseeing days.

But, on every backpacking adventure, there are a few things I never leave off my travel packing list !

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

If all of your opinions on Mexico are based on what you hear on the news, you’ll think Mexico is one of the most dangerous countries in the world. While it’s definitely true that the drug cartels are ruthless and that there are plenty of places you don’t want to travel to, most places of interest to travellers are quite safe.

Sure, bad shit happens occasionally, but the same is true for places like Paris, Las Vegas, and Bangkok; there are horror stories of humanity’s worst whenever there is a lot of us gathered in one place.

For the most part, travelling in Mexico is quite safe . Even in Mexico City, you’re fine walking around by yourself as long as you exercise some common sense.

If you stick to the standard backpacking safety tips – you’ll be more than ok.

One thing to watch out for in Mexico is taking random taxis. They’re not all legit, and there are plenty of stories of people getting ripped off and robbed.

Uber is big in most places you’ll likely visit and is super cheap, so just get a local SIM card and stick with that. Try to find an official taxi stand if you need to just hail a cab, or have someone call one for you.

Wherever you go, always keep an eye on your drink. Even better, just stick to beer and ask them not to open the can or bottle until it’s in your hot, little hands.

And, my final tip would be to keep an eye on local news. If you know something cartel-related went down in a certain area, then wait until it’s blown over before you travel there. Not all places will be safe all of the time, and not all places will be dangerous hellscapes.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘N Roll in Mexico

One thing’s for sure about Mexicans – they like to party, and they like it loud! In places like Mexico City, Cancun, Play Del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta, it’s not hard to find a party that’s going on all night long.

Mexicans love their music, so there’s usually a band or a DJ playing. It might be a local mariachi band, it might be a heavy metal band from the US, or it might be a German house DJ. If you’re looking to rock out and dance the night away, you’ve come to the right country.

When it comes to drinking – again, Mexico loves to drink! If you want to go local, try a michelada . It’s basically a Bloody Mary but with beer instead of vodka. Or try a calimocho – wine and coca-cola!

Those looking for something stronger you can opt for tequila or mezcal. After all, the best stuff in the world comes from right here in Mexico.

As far as drugs go in Mexico, they’re obviously around. As a gringo tourist, don’t be surprised if people approach you to offer you drugs.

I don’t recommend buying drugs from a random guy on the street anywhere , but I know some of you will probably do it anyways. Drugs on the road are inevitable so you might as well learn about them and do it properly!

I got caught smoking a joint in San Cristobal De Las Casas – and it’s not my favourite memory. Luckily, I had my charming Argentinian companion to smooth talk our way out of it with a small bribe. 

They are cracking down at the moment on weed in Mexico. I’ve also been stopped and searched randomly in transport stations so, in my experience, it’s not worth travelling with or smoking in public now. 

There’s plenty of hostels, guesthouses, and beaches that are cool with it. Judge the vibe, ask locals, and make your own judgement.

If you’re looking to roll, trip, etc., it’s definitely possible. Again, be extremely wary of buying anything off the street. A better idea is to find the hippies, stoners, punk rockers, and the like. They’ll know where to find something without you getting ripped off or busted.

And as for sex and love while travelling Mexico? Oh man, the Mexican passion is not exaggerated – for all genders! Being a sexy foreigner bodes well for trying your luck dating in Mexico.

Plus, the backpacker scene is far from abstinence-only. 😉 Through it all, treat each other well. Free love is about love as much as it is about sex!

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Mexico

Right, now let me be the first to admit that my travels sometimes involve some sketchy activities! But rather than ignore my wild side, I just insure in with World Nomads! That way, I can still have my adventures while knowing if shit hits the fan – I’m covered by good insurance .

World Nomads are a flexible and affordable travel insurance option and I’ve trusted them for years.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Mexico is a super accessible country within the Americas. There are direct flights from multiple cities within the USA and Canada, as well as direct flights from Europe. You can always cross the land borders from the US, or from parts of Central America.

What this means is that Mexico fits in well with almost any backpacking itinerary! You can fly in directly from Europe or North America and explore Mexico for as long as your visa allows you. Or, your Mexico backpacking route can be part of a longer overland travel adventure through Latin America if you cross the southern border.

Personally, I flew into Mexico once and crossed the Southern border another time. I know other people may have a different experience, but I found flying in easier in terms of paperwork and bureaucracy. There was a convoluted hold-up at the land border that ended up requiring a long discussion and a stroke of luck to get me across!

Entry Requirements for Mexico

The entry requirements for Mexico vary depending on your nationality. Citizens of 65 different countries are allowed to visit Mexico visa-free. Typically, tourists and business visitors can stay up to 180 days. Make sure you read up on the visa policy of Mexico if you’re not clear.

If they give you a tourist card as you enter, hold onto this: you will need to present it as you are leaving and you’ll be held up and fined if you don’t. Though, you may not receive one depending on how you enter.

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Mexico is quite well connected – especially the major centres! There is, at the very least, a bus or a colectivo that will take you close to where you want to go. Mexico ADO buses are the easiest option for getting between popular tourist destinations. Mexico City has its own metro.

Many of the regional centres are connected via planes that aren’t so expensive! Within major centres, you’ll find Ubers, taxis, and even the metro. Generally speaking, no transport in Mexico is overly expensive but taxis can sometimes overcharge you.

Many of the places you’ll want to visit in Mexico will have an airport or at least one close by. Thanks to budget airlines such as Volaris and Viva Aerobus, flying around Mexico doesn’t have to break the bank. You can find cheap airfares , especially when booking in advance.

Just keep in mind that you’ll have to pay extra for a checked bag. It’s worth it to try and go carry-on only if you plan on taking a few flights. Flights within Mexico can be quite cheap. It’s possible to fly for $50 or even less, but remember you’ll probably have to pay $25 or so for a bag.

I always like to joke that bus travel in Mexico makes the US look like a third-world country. Compared to the hell on Earth that is a Greyhound, bus travel in Mexico is quite comfortable. I’m talking comfortable reclining seats, TV screens, and even a free bagged lunch!

Imagine taking the bus from Mexico City to Oaxaca in what feels like business class of Luftansa. Some of the best companies include Primera Plus and ETN.

Long-distance buses usually cost between $25-50 and are super comfortable

For travelling around a destination, you’ve always got the option of super-cheap local buses. Taxis are plentiful but are known for price gauging in many places. A better idea is to have Uber ready to go on your phone or arrange a cab through your accommodation.

This is only an option in a select few big cities like Guadalajara or Mexico City. Even in the capital, rides are super cheap at around $0.30.

Women should be aware that there’s a special car for women and children at the end of the line. It’s a wise idea to make use of these, especially at rush hour. Men can be a bit “grabby” when the crowd is pushing on and off the train.

Many people choose to rent a car in Mexico. It’s actually quite easy, relatively affordable, and a good option if you are short on time in Mexico.

Although drivers are chaotic, with extra caution, you should be safe driving around tourist areas. But be aware that muggings and robberies are very common when gringos are driving outside of these comfort zones.

Wherever you are, be sure you’ve got good insurance on the car and know all the details of the plan.

Hitchhiking in Mexico

Hitchhiking?! In Mexico?! Surely not!

Nah, mate, of course you should hitchhike Mexico !

Like with most hitchhiking , you need a little experience, patience, and good instincts. It also helps to speak a little Spanish when hitching in Mexico so that you can fully explain what you’re doing and where you want to go.

Your hitching luck will depend on what state you’re in. When I was in the Yucatan, Riviera Maya, Chiapas, Oaxaca and anywhere close to Mexico City I had good luck. I think if you’re close to places where raggedy, hippies from throughout Latin America congregate then chances of scoring a ride are high!

The states I mentioned before are known for various reasons (either they have good drugs, good jewellery supplies, or are known to be good for selling jewellery) to be favourites of the Latina vagabonds. So most drivers knew what hitchhiking was all about.

But as with hitchhiking in any country, say no to the rides that don’t feel right. It’s not worth it.

Also, explaining in Spanish that you’re on an adventure and that you’re happy to shout lunch (but not pay for the ride) goes a long way. Some of the best conversations and side quest adventures I had in Mexico came from hitchhiking with my chicken!

My chicken and I went swimming in cenotes, ate many bomb-ass tacos, and even went to a full moon ceremony on the beach (don’t ask, I was on my “journey”) all with people we met hitchhiking! I also met some amazing kiwi lads driving a van around Mexico and we spent about 5 days travelling together after I hitched a ride with them! You never know what funny story is going to come out of a hitchhiking adventure.

Well, I mean, sometimes it sucks too. It rains, you get food poisoning, you end up walking 20 kilometres because you can’t be bothered waiting for a ride. But on the whole, the randomness of life rewards you.

Onwards Travel from Mexico

Mexico is the perfect jump-off point for your adventures in Latin America. Those looking to travel by land have the option of heading into Guatemala or Belize. It’s not hard to arrange bus trips to these neighbouring countries.

You’ve only just started exploring my favourite region on Earth! Backpacking Central America is up there with my favourite adventures of all time!

Alternatively, cheap flights are available to most countries in Central America or the northern part of South America. If you’re looking to visit the Caribbean or backpack Cuba , you can find good deals on flights out of Mexico City and Cancun.

• Backpacking Belize
• Backpacking Guatemala
• Backpacking South America
• Backpacking The United States

The Mexican Peso is not exactly a strong currency – so Mexico isn’t the place for Western backpackers to come and make their fortune. Still, there are some employment opportunities for those wishing to remain longer in Mexico and get to know the culture.

The most obvious option for paid work is teaching English. Other than that there are plenty of volunteering projects and opportunities in the country.

Just be sure to check the visa situation as technically you need to be a resident in Mexico before earning any money in the country. This can be a grey area for digital nomads in Mexico .

But as the internet gets better and the beaches stay magical, Mexico is fast becoming a bit of a digital nomad hub! You can expect to find a few people making money from their laptops as they counter the hustle with chilling in the hammock during their off days.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Teaching English in Mexico

Teaching English in Mexico is a great way to earn some extra dollaridoodles for your journey. It’s by no means a get-rich scheme, but it’s easy to get work, you’ll learn a lot, and hopefully help some people develop life skills in the process!

You can also teach English online to make yourself completely remote. Though, be aware that the internet connection isn’t always trust worthy in those budget hostels. 

You don’t need to have to have a degree but a TEFL certificate is unbelievably useful. You  improve your English and teaching skills to really change up your abilities and opportunities. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you can get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL . Simply follow the link or enter the code PACK50 .

Volunteering in Mexico

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst giving something back. There are loads of different volunteer projects in Mexico ranging from teaching to animal care to agriculture to pretty much everything.

Mexico is constantly in need of volunteers, especially in social work and healthcare. English teachers are in high demand throughout the country, while rural areas present more unique opportunities like farming and helping with eco-projects. Most nationalities are able to volunteer in Mexico visa-free for up to 180 days. 

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant – especially when working with animals or children.

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in Mexico, then we recommend that you Signup for Worldpackers . With a Broke Backpacker discount, it’s only $39 a year – so it’s worth giving it a shot.

Mexican culture is colourful and intoxicating.

Did you know that Mexico is the 11th most populous country in the world? As of 2023, the population of Mexico is estimated at over 130 million. It’s also far and away the most populous Spanish-speaking country: Columbia comes in second and is home to only about 50 million people.

The population of Mexico is also super diverse. The Mayan and Indigenous cultures have never truly gone away, and particularly in southern Mexico, they remain extremely rich and thriving. Each group has their own language, customs, and traditions – although they often are inspired by each other and by certain aspects of Catholicism.

This leads to a church in San Cristobal de las Casas regularly sacrificing chickens in an otherwise Catholic Church. Actually, this is quite emblematic of Mexican culture at large.

Elements of Spanish culture and the Catholic Church, Indigenous cultures, and even Afro-Caribbean culture all come together and fuse to become Mexican . The majority of Mexicans are known as Mestizos, which means they identify as having both indigenous and European elements.

And a running joke amongst Mexicans is the word ahorita . Actually, there are a few words endemic to Mexican Spanish that always make me chuckle as it takes me back to being there. ( “No mames guey!)

But ahorita is special because it unites all the different and diverse cultures of Mexico. It vaguely means “soon” but embodies their cultural lateness. 😉 There is such thing as “Mexican Time” and you might as well practise patience and get on board!

Useful Travel Phrases For Mexico

Mexico is the largest Spanish-speaking country in the world, but it’s also home to nearly 70 native languages. While all 132 million of its inhabitants are considered Mexican, this is an incredibly diverse country. The culture and customs of Mexico change as you move across the country, ensuring there’s something new to discover everywhere you go.

Below are some useful Spanish phrases for backpacking Mexico. While many people speak English in tourist areas and cities, once you get outside these areas, Spanish will carry you a long way!

Hola = Hello

Cómo estás? = How are you?

Estoy bien = I’m fine

(Muchas) gracias = Thank you (very much)

De nada = You’re welcome

Una cerveza por favor = A beer please 

La chela = The beer (slang)

Salud! = Cheers! (directly translates to ‘health’.)

Tienes fuego? = Do you have a lighter?

Sin bolsa de plastico = No plastic bag

Lo siento = I’m sorry

Dónde está el baño? = Where is the bathroom?

Qué es esto? = What’s this?

Cuánto? = How much?

Adiós = Goodbye

Quiero tacos al pastor = I want (spit-grilled) pork tacos

What To Eat in Mexico

Eating will definitely be a highlight of your experience backpacking Mexico. This country takes its culinary arts seriously, and it shows. I could make a guide this long and just about Mexican food.

Mexican cuisine is famous all over the world, and for good reason. Each region has its own flavours and unique dishes, ensuring there’s something new to try everywhere you go.

Make sure to find out what the local specialities are in each place you visit and give them a try. Eating your way across Mexico is a foodie’s dream come true!

One thing that my heart bleeds for is mole . This sauce is often made my hardworking women using equipment that dates back pre-Colombian with all kinds of ingredients including vegetables, coffee, and even cacao. It’s something you’ll only find in Mexico and I miss it dearly.

We can’t mention Mexican food without talking about the drink as well. You can even take a train ride called the Tequila Express; it leaves from Guadalajara on the weekends and includes snacks, live music, a tour of the distillery, and of course, lots and lots of tequila.

Popular Mexican Dishes

• Tacos – Everywhere you look, there are tacos in Mexico. Typically they’re pretty small and come with a simple filling. You’ll find tacos al pastor, chorizo, and steak, servied with onions, cilantro, salsa, and hot sauce.
• Tortas – Mexican’s answer to a club sandwich. You’ll get a lot of the same fillings as you’ll find in tacos but in between two pieces of fresh bread instead. This lunch fills you up and doesn’t cost very much.
• Ceviche – Peru may be more famous for ceviche, but Mexico does this dish of raw fish, lime juice, and chillies exquisitely too. You’ll find the best ceviche in coastal towns.
• Aguachile – This is kind of like ceviche, but with shrimp and far spicier. Cucumbers are usually added on the side to help you cool down. It burns, but it burns so good!
• Mole – This homemade soul sauce is used in several different dishes. Both Puebla and Oaxaca claim to have invented mole sauce and are excellent places to try it. It comes in all shapes and forms and it’s worth trying all of them.
• Chilaquiles – Ever had nachos for breakfast? Well, you can do that in Mexico! Chilaquiles are made by taking yesterday’s tortillas, cutting them up, and frying them. They’re then covered in a red or green sauce and given a side of beans.
• Pozole – This is a traditional soup popular all over Mexico. It’s made with hominy (dried maize) and pork and topped with shredded cabbage, radishes, onion, chili peppers, and salsa.
• Churros – When you’re ready for dessert, nothing beats a churro. These pieces of fried dough covered in cinnamon are delicious, especially with that chocolate dip!

A Brief History of Mexico

Mexico has been populated with complex and diverse civilisations for over 13 000 years. The most famous of these civilisations were the Aztec and the Maya – although there were others.

What’s extra remarkable about these civilisations is that they arose in lands without major rivers (although cenotes were used as water sources) and without beasts of burden. This means the complex agricultural and architectural wonders were almost entirely dependent on human labour!

As is well known, the Spanish invaded in 1521. What evolved over the 300 years between their invasion and Mexican independence was a stratification that still impacts society today.

At the top of the hierarchy with all the political power were the Spanish who sailed over from Spain. Then it was the creoles or the Spanish people born in Mexico.

Lower down were the mestizos or “mixed” Spanish and Indigenous. Lower still were the Indigenous and the indentured African labourers.

While all three lower classes often ran into conflict with one another, they all resented the Spanish. They could find enough common ground to incite revolution; by 1821, the war of Independence was won.

What followed was quite some turmoil largely due to the stratification under Spanish rule. For a brief moment in history, there was the Mexican Empire which included a hefty chunk of the Americas from California and Texas all the way down to Costa Rica.

This was short-lived and so was the Mexican Empire. It was eventually followed by a dictatorship in the late 19th century. While it did modernise much of Mexico, it further divided society and oppressed the lower classes.

The Mexican Revolution which formalised the United Mexican States that we know today occurred during 1910 – 1920. It was incredibly complex and incredibly brutal – up to 10% of the population died.

Out of the civil war – in which you can’t really declare winners – came the PRI political party who ruled Mexico almost unopposed until the early 2000s. The 20th century in Mexico saw great improvements to standards of living, a general stabilising of the political turmoil, and even some good steps forward for equality between class, race, and gender.

However, culturally the country remained quite conservative and never saw economic gains that brought it on par with its wealthier northern neighbours. Plus, new trafficking routes opened up off the back of existing routes that used to be used to smuggle in bootleg booze during the US prohibition.

With the rise of Escobar down in Colombia, there became an influx of product (cocaine) and the US was certainly buying. While it’s hard to sum up the complex causes of a drug war, the corruption of the long-standing PRI party and a society battered by inequality and poverty certainly didn’t help.

Even when PRI was ousted by the right win PAN party in the early 2000s, there wasn’t a reprieve to the drug war or poverty. In fact, the drug war escalated and poverty didn’t markedly improve.

As the drug war between the cartels and the government – and at times the USA agents as well – has only intensified over the last 15 years, you can’t help but notice no one is winning. There aren’t easy answers, but surely prohibition of drugs isn’t helping. If you make a valuable product illegal, it only incentivises cartels to risk more lives in order to make money.

Also, the exchange of illegal products between Mexico and the USA has never been one way. The cartels get much of their firepower from the USA. And even with the drug war declared over in 2017 by the left-leaning President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, many issues stemming back to Imperial times still linger over Mexico.

However, Mexico is resilient. The Mexican people are proud and refuse to stand by and watch their country slip away from them. It simply remains to be seen how to untie some of these complex knots of politics today.

There’s no shortage of must-try experiences in Mexico. In fact, there are so many of them that you’ll just have to keep coming back. Even if you can spend a few months in Mexico, you won’t be able to do it all!

Mexico has so many beautiful beaches and all the fun activities that come along with them. You should definitely be sure to do some snorkelling, diving, fishing, SUPing, surfing, and whatever else is available!

Sports are huge in Mexico, especially football and lucha libre . Check the schedule for the local football clubs and see if they do lucha fights where you’re travelling to.

Hit a local cantina before the game or the match and soak up the lively atmosphere. Joining the locals to cheer on their favourite team and luchadores is tons of fun and a great insight into local culture.

Scuba Diving in Mexico

If you’re a diver, you’re going to love Mexico. There are several world-class dive sites around the country for you to explore. The best spot if you want to base your trip around diving is the Riviera Maya. There are several great dive sites around Cancun, and you can also easily find good hostels in Cozumel and nearby Isla Mujeres.

For a unique scuba experience, why not go diving in a cenote? These underground sinkholes are fascinating to explore below the surface. It’s easy to arrange a cenote diving trip from major tourist hubs like Cancun or Playa del Carmen.

On the other side of Mexico, there’s diving available in Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, and Acapulco as well. Just be aware that the water over here can be quite cold and may require a warming dry suit. It’s worth it as you may see giant rays or even whales while diving on the Pacific Coast.

Surfing in Mexico

Mexico is an incredible destination for surfers. You’ve got a wide variety of breaks and lots of swell here.

In many places, you can ride some epic waves with little to no crowd. It helps that there are about 2,500 km of Coast. Surfing is also an option year-round in Mexico.

Some of the best places to go surfing include Baja California, Sayulita, and Puerto Escondido. You don’t need to bring your own board as there are always some available for hire. If you’re like me and can’t stand on a board of any kind, there are several options for surf classes in the more popular destinations.

So your backpacking Mexico route is taking form! But there’s always more questions to ask. Here’s a little more travel advice I’m gonna throw in there!

How long does it take to backpack through Mexico?

At least 3 weeks is essential if you want a good feel for the country. But Mexico is massive . You could have a lifetime in Mexico and you’d still find unexplored places! You could easily find yourself heading to the Guatemalan border after 6 months to renew your visa for another 6 months.

Can you live off $1000 a month in Mexico?

Er, yeah, definitely. If you want to rock up to Mexico and spend $1000 a month then good for you. I hope you spend it wisely and help some good people out. Realistically, you can spend much less than that and live very comfortably.

What’s the best thing to eat while backpacking Mexico?

Oh boy, where do I start!? Tacos, quesadillas, beans, guacamole, oh and don’t forget about all the fruit. Mexican food is world-class. Not always vegetarian friendly, but they do put their heart and soul into their cooking.

Is Mexico safe to backpack?

For the most part, yes. Mexico welcomes thousands of tourists every year, and most of them will tell you they had a perfectly safe visit. But that doesn’t mean things can’t happen. Be a smart tourist, and follow the same rules as you would anywhere else.

Mexico is one of the most vibrant and diverse countries that you’ll ever go backpacking in. The landscapes are wild and varied: there’s desert, jungle, mountains, and of course, the beaches. And then the cultures are just as mixed and vibrant to match.

Whether you breeze in for a surfing holiday or commit to serious hitchhiking and volunteering for six months or so, Mexico will leave a big fat mark on your heart. This country is so much more than its all-inclusive resorts and cartel wars. It really is a country that keeps on giving.

When you go backpacking Mexico you understand the long-reaching impacts of long ago historical events. Buuuttt, you also get to enjoy cheap tequila lazy days in the sun. It’s all about balance!

I only have one more thing to say before I sign off. Because ultimately, I can write a big-ass guide on Mexico but nothing really prepares you for the majesty (or complexity) of this country.

So, be good to Mexico. There’s been a lot of crazy shit happening here over the years. And while almost everyone you meet will be eager to show the best side to Mexico, you don’t want the locals getting burned by overly inebriated or ignorant backpackers on top of everything else.

But, I have no doubt you broke backpacker will take to this great nation and have an experience of a lifetime. Hopefully, I’ll see you out here someday and we can share a taco (or seven)! Vamos, amigo, it’s time you go backpacking Mexico. 

• Is Mexico City safe?
• The Art of Slow Travel
• Buying a SIM card in Mexico
• Why Central America is perfect for North Americans

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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15 Best Resort Towns in Mexico & Must-See Beaches

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

Resorts are a great way to relax and get away from the bustle of city life, and Mexico has tons of resort towns. Mexico is known for its food, its ancient temples, and its white sandy beaches. Naturally, most resort towns are along 500 shores on the 9 930 km (6 000 miles) coastline.

Resort towns like Cancun and Los Cabos often take the spotlight as Mexico’s most well-known resort towns. Tourists love visiting them for their golden beaches and parties, but they aren’t the only resort towns that deserve the spotlight.

Many of these resort towns are also some of the best places to visit in Mexico . So, they cannot be missed on your next trip to the sunny country.

There is a seaside resort for everyone. Here are the 15 best resort towns in Mexico.

• 15 Best Resort Towns in Mexico

Table of Contents

Recommended Resorts in Cancun:

Los cabos corridor, 2. cabo san lucas, recommended resorts in cabo san lucas:, 3. san jose del cabo, recommended resorts in san jose del cabo:, recommended resorts in cozumel:, 5. puerto escondido, recommended resorts in puerto escondido:, 6. puerto vallarta, recommended resorts in puerto vallarta:, 7. acapulco, recommended resort in acapulco:, 8. mazatlan, recommended resorts in mazatlan:, 9. playa del carmen, recommended resorts in playa del carmen:, recommended resorts in tulum:, recommended resorts in xpu ha:, 12. zihuatanejo, recommended resorts in zihuatanejo:, 13. isla mujeres, recommended resorts in isla mujeres:, 14. puerto penasco, recommended resorts in puerto penasco:, 15. huatulco, recommended resorts in huatulco:, in summary of resort towns in mexico.

Mexico is a popular tourist destination because of its hot summers and white sand beaches. It’s no wonder there are so many resort towns.

In the southeast of Mexico, in the Yucatán Province, sits a little city called Cancún. Cancún is a well-known resort town and is the second most visited tourist destination in Mexico, after Mexico City.

Cancun is a popular holiday destination for young people on their spring break. The best time to visit Cancun to avoid the party crowds is from April to November.

Downtown Cancun is the leading residential area for locals and is architecturally and culturally rich. Parque Las Palapas is the central park where you’ll find all kinds of local food carts, artisan souvenirs, and entertainment.

Le Blanc Spa Resort

Only a few minutes away from downtown Cancun, this luxurious resort has everything you need. All-inclusive rooms include hot tubs, room service, and coffee facilities.

Read more Reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

Presidente InterContinental Cancun Resort

This continental resort offers guests a private Caribbean beach. It provides water sport rentals alongside its five hot tubs and two pools.

Los Cabo Corridor is in the Mexican state of Baja California Sur on the peninsula’s southern coast. It is a coastline that connects Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

It is one of the two towns on the Los Cabos Corridor and also the bigger city. It is a popular holiday destination among Hollywood stars who enjoy luxurious resorts and beaches.

In January, professional windsurfers, kiteboarders, and standup paddleboarders should not miss the Lord of the Wind showdown. This competition is a battle against the infamous El Norte winds.

Playa Grande Resort Spa

Situated on 8 acres of private Cabo San Lucas beach, this Mexican-style resort has all you need. It has three outdoor pools and a hot tub as well as a resort spa.

Hacienda del Mar Los Cabos Resort, Villas & Golf

This family-friendly resort has everything to keep everyone busy. There are babysitting facilities to keep the kids occupied as well as an outdoor pool and a wellness centre.

While the bigger Cabo San Lucas attracts tourists, San Jose del Cabo is the more laidback twin. It is a great place to visit if you like the beach, but don’t want a big crowd around you.

However, quieter doesn’t mean it’s more boring. There are many activities to keep yourself occupied.

One of the activities is to go hiking or mountain biking on the many trails. Cerro de Las Chivas trail is beginner-friendly. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the top, where you can zipline across the canyon.

Marquis Los Cabos All-Inclusive Resort & Spa

Suites at this luxury resort include private balconies and terraces. The resort has four restaurants as well as an extensive spa.

Barceló Gran Faro Los Cabos

This resort has stunning views of the Sea of Cortez from its spacious rooms and five swimming pools. It also has a selection of restaurants and complimentary room service.

If clear waters, coral reefs and sand between your toes sound like an ideal getaway, then Cozumel should be on your list. The island is a popular scuba diving and snorkelling spot in the Atlantic Ocean.

The Cozumel Reef is part of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest reef next to the Great Barrier Reef. The assemblage of sea life and colourful corals can be explored with this Atlantis Submarine Expedition .

Cozumel’s downtown, San Miguel, is a must-see. It is very safe and small enough to explore on foot, but big enough so you’ll never get bored.

You might enjoy reading my article on interesting facts about Mexico.

Iberostar Cozumel

This all-inclusive resort is a favourite among couples. In addition to the fantastic facilities on site,  it also has a tennis court and games room.

Occidental Cozumel

This resort is all-inclusive and has traditional and international cuisine at its seven restaurants. Rooms are air-conditioned and have balconies.

Puerto Escondido is the largest beach town on Oaxaca’s Pacific coast. Despite its name meaning ‘hidden port’, it is a popular global surfing destination. Many tourists flock here to ride the Puerto Escondido Mexican Pipeline waves.

For a truly breathtaking beach experience, visit the Manialtepec Lagoon at night to see the bioluminescent beach.

This is a laid-back town with a chilled atmosphere, but the locals also know how to party. The Fiestas de Noviembre is a month-long celebration in November. The festivities include surfing competitions, beauty pageants, concerts and food festivals.

Posada Real Puerto Escondido

The beachfront resort has exceptional on-site water sports facilities as well as a game room and tennis court. This resort can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Vivo Resorts

Only a 15-minute drive from Puerto Escondido, this resort offers pristine beaches away from the tourist-filled beaches. There are multiple sports facilities and recreational classes.

This resort town is located on the west coast of the state of Jalisco in Banderas Bay. In 2019, over five million tourists seeking relaxation and refuge visited this popular destination.

Puerto Vallarta is a great family-friendly vacation because of the abundance of activities to keep everyone busy. Like this ATV Mountain Adventure in the Sierra Madre mountains. You’ll explore the Puerto Vallarta countryside with breaks for traditional Mexican cuisine and refreshment.

Villa Del Palmar Beach Resort Spa

The Bandera Bay Beach resort has a spa and wellness centre as well as nightly entertainment, so you’re never bored. The spacious suites have dining areas and small kitchens.

This luxury resort has first-class facilities and is in an excellent location. Close to the beachfront boardwalk full of fun restaurants and shopping centres.

Acapulco is one of the most famous beach resort towns in Mexico. It was a popular vacation spot for many Hollywood stars between the 1930s and 1960s.

When visiting, don’t forget to see the El Fuerte de San Diego , built by the Spanish Empire in the 18th century. It gives you a glimpse into Mexico’s history and culture.

Another glimpse into Mexican culture and art is a mural put up by world-famous Mexican painter Diego Riviera.

Princess Mundo Imperial Riviera Diamante Acapulco

Private balconies at this beachfront resort allow you to overlook Revolcadero Beach and the Pacific Ocean. With five tennis courts, four pools and three bars, you’ll never be bored.

Dreams Acapulco

This beachfront resort is one of few pet-friendly accommodations. It is in a great location in town and has a big garden to keep the kids and fur babies busy.

Mazatlan is a colonial town on the coast of Sinaloa. It is a safe and friendly city to visit, especially in the Golden Zone, Old Town, and Malecon.

When you’re tired of swimming and lounging on the golden beaches, be sure to visit Old Town. Some of the buildings in Old Town or Centro Historico date back more than 500 years.

Each year in early June, Cultura Mazatlan has a Dia de La Musica (Day of Music). Stages are erected, and local musicians perform to the public for free.

There are some fantastic places to stay in Mazatlan.

Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa

This enormous resort has its tennis and golf course and five restaurants. The 4-star hotel also has three swimming pools and a fitness facility.

DoubleTree by Hilton Mazatlan

This resort is in the middle of the Golden Zone, which means it’s close to shopping, dining and entertainment facilities. Air-conditioned rooms come with private bathrooms and balconies.

Playa del Carmen was once a tiny fishing village but is now a cosmopolitan beach resort town. It is a top-rated beach destination and is only an hour’s drive from Cancun.

You might enjoy my post on 31 Fascinating Facts about Mexican Food You Might Not Know.

Playa del Carmen isn’t all about turquoise waters and sand in your hair. It is also culturally rich in art. There’s 5th Avenue, which is a beloved tourist hot spot for souvenirs and boutiques. Also, don’t forget to stop by the Frida Kahlo Museum while you’re there.

Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun

This award-winning resort boasts 13 pools and seven restaurants. Suites have hot tubs, furnished terraces, and marble bathrooms.

Hotel Xcaret Mexico All Parks All Fun Inclusive

This resort has a private beach, swimming pool, and tennis court. A fun perk is that guests can enjoy full free access to Experiencias Xcaret’s nature parks and tours.

Most famous for the Mayan Ruins, many things to do in Tulum don’t involve looking at temples. Located on the Riviera Maya, Tulum is also a beautiful tropical paradise. This coastal town also has lots of exotic wildlife, cenotes and caves.

Visit the incredible Cenote Dos Ojos, which translates to ‘two eyes’. You can also swim and snorkel in the various cenotes and see all of the beautiful sea creatures of the Caribbean Sea.

Central Park Resort & Spa Tulum

This resort is only 5km away from the archaeological sites of Tulum, so you don’t have to travel far for sightseeing. Each room is air-conditioned and has a small kitchenette.

Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa

This resort is an AAA four-diamond award-winning resort with 24-hour room service. It has a splash park for kids and also secluded swim-out suites.

Xpu Ha is a small town that is actually more of a resort village. It is nestled between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

This village is laidback and has plenty of outdoor activities so that you can enjoy the sun. You can lounge at Serenity Beach Club or go snorkelling in the clear blue waters.

Barceló Maya Beach

Guests at this resort can enjoy buffet-style meals at one of the five on-site restaurants. The resort also has a children’s playground and boutique store.

Barceló Maya Caribe

The all-inclusive resort has a beach on one side and natural woodlands on the other. It is a great place to stay for families as there is a kids’ club. For adults, there are fitness facilities and a tennis court.

Zihuatanejo is more of a city than a town, but still very much worth visiting. You might recognise its beach from the blockbuster film Shawshank Redemption . This beach isn’t only a fictional Andy Dufresne’s dream holiday destination, but many famous artists love it too.

Zihuatanejo, or Zihua as called by locals, is a favourite boating and watersport spot for locals. The five main beaches are wonderful places for water sport enthusiasts.

Thompson Zihuatanejo

In the heart of the Zihuatanejo jungle, this 5-star resort is an idyllic beach escape. Along with the many pools and spas, water sports facilities are also available on site.

Embarc Zihuatanejo

This resort is in an excellent location and close to Principal Beach, and only a short drive from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport. Rooms include family or private studio rooms.

Isla Mujeres is only a 20 minute ferry ride to reach it from Cancun. While it has some resorts, it hasn’t become oversaturated with them yet and has a lovely, laid-back ambience.

Isla Mujeres’s North Beach, named Playa Norte, has charming beach bars and restaurants, attracting many tourists.

The magical Underwater Sculpture Museum is a once in a lifetime experience. The living museum comprises stone sculptures that are constantly changing due to the live reef systems.

Privilege Aluxes

Privilege Aluxes is particularly loved by couples and newlyweds. It has a Privilege Beach Club, which serves fresh seafood and cocktails. It has two outdoor swimming pools and a spa.

Mia Reef Isla Mujeres

Each room at this resort gets an ocean view and a complimentary breakfast. It has access to a private beach and a swimming pool.

Home to some of the most luxurious beach resorts in Mexico, Puerto Penasco is a must-visit resort town. Besides the beaches, there are many in-water activities too. Try your hand at snorkelling, scuba diving, and paddleboarding at the many beaches.

If you still want to explore the waters but prefer to stay dry while doing it, take one of the many boat trips offered. You might even spot a few dolphins along the way.

Princesa de Penasco Condo

Resort amenities include BBQ facilities and a private beach area. Rooms have a kitchen, dining room, and private bathrooms.

Bella Sirena Resort

This resort is an excellent find in Puerto Penasco, only 400m (440 yards) from Sandy Beach. It has everything you need in your room, including a kitchen and hot tub.

Huatulco is a set against the Sierra Madre on the Pacific Coast. It has nine bays and over 30 beaches to explore. Not yet a town, this small area in the state of Oaxaca was designated and developed for tourism.

Huatulco is the perfect spot for tourists that want tranquillity and peace. It has many secluded resorts and secret beaches throughout. There are also many waterfalls , coffee plantations, and hidden lagoons.

Eco-tourists will love the sea turtle sanctuary and can have a chance to swim with a few sea turtles and crocodiles. You can also stop at La Bocana Beach for a mud bath and excellent massage.

Holiday Inn Huatulco

This Mediterranean-style resort is a fun place for the whole family. There is a special kids’ club to keep the young ones engaged and an outdoor pool.

Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa

This luxury resort has a private beach and eight restaurants. Each air-conditioned room has a balcony and private bathrooms.

Mexico has fantastic beaches and resort towns. Each with its charm and unique qualities. You’ll never run out of things to do.

Places like Cancun are known for being packed with party-going tourists, but not all resort towns are like that. Some resort towns, like Huatulco, are geared toward tranquillity and lazy days in the sun.

Whether you’re looking for extreme water sports or just want to lounge in the sun, Mexico has a resort town just for you.

I covered all of the costs associated with writing this article. However, this best resort towns in Mexico post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

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Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Mexico Hidden Gems: 10 You Need to Know About [2024]

Looking to discover Mexico Hidden gems?

You’re in the right place — and with the right guide — as venturing off the beaten path in Mexico to hidden gems is kinda my thing. Also, I live in Mexico , and have since 2018.

I’ve personally been to each place on the list, some more than once. The great thing about planning a trip to Mexico is that it’s huge. There’s something and somewhere for everyone, as you’ll soon see.

As someone who’s been to half the states in Mexico, this guide is intended to shed some light on a country that is so much more than just Tulum, Cancun and Cabo San Lucas.

That’s not to say those places aren’t wonderful, just that you won’t find them here. Rather, this article is about traveling off the beaten path in Mexico — but not so off the beaten path you won’t have plenty of Airbnb options, hot showers and WiFi.

By the end of this article, your Mexico bucket list will have 10 more amazing places on it, from the best non-touristy places in Mexico, to pueblos magicos (magic towns), and even one hidden beach in Mexico.

Ready to get to this list? Let’s dive in and discover some hidden gems in Mexico.

Mexico Hidden Gems: Bacalar Lake

1. bacalar lagoon.

Laguna Bacalar (Bacalar Lagoon) is basically a postcard. This blue waters in this freshwater lake is the main draw in the pueblo magico Bacalar. In case you’ve never heard of a Mexico pueblo magico , or magic town, let’s clarify.

🤔 What is a pueblo magico?

The Mexican Tourism Board awards the prestigious distinction of pueblo magico to small towns in the country with certain characteristics like unique culture, historic relevance and exceptional natural beauty.

There are a total of five pueblos magicos on this list, but about 135 in total in all Mexico. Bacalar is one of the best pueblos magicos in the Yucatan Peninsula .

🗺 Where is Bacalar located?

Bacalar is in Quintana Roo state, in the Yucatan Peninsula, in southeastern Mexico. It is in the southern part of the state, and less than an hour from the Mexico-Belize border. 

This part of Mexico is home to the Mayans, who call Bacalar the “Lagoon of Seven Colors.” (You’ll also sometimes see it called the “Lake of Seven Colors.”)

Ranging in depth from 0- to 200-feet (0-60 m), you’ll see the bright blues in the shallows, and the dark indigo blues in the deeper areas. The blue waters of Bacalar Lagoon has earned it the nickname, the Maldives of Mexico.

📍 What is Bacalar Near?

Not far from Bacalar, there are some lesser-visited Yucatan Mayan Ruins , like Kohunlich and Becan. The Mexican Caribbean beach town of Mahahual, Mexico is also nearby.

Popular Mexico destinations like Tulum , Playa del Carmen and Cancun , are within driving distance by rental car or bus. In fact, many travelers will rent a car in Cancun and drive to Bacalar.

📆 What’s the best time to visit Bacalar?

Being in the tropics, Bacalar weather is hot year-round. The summers tend to be the hottest, rainiest, and have the most mosquitoes.

While the months of November to May can be busier, they have the best weather to enjoy Bacalar Lake.

🤔 Is Bacalar worth visiting?

If you’re looking for a calm, beautiful place that’s known more for nature than nightlife, then yes, you’re going to fall in love with Bacalar Lake.

While here, you can do all of the quintessential vacation things — swim, eat and drink, read, lay in a hammock, chill, think, watch the sunrise and admire nature. There are some bars, but this isn’t really a party town.

MEXICO HIDDEN GEMS: BACALAR LAKE

Best things to do in bacalar.

⛵️ BACALAR boat tours

Lake Bacalar is the second largest freshwater lake in the Mexico at about 26-miles-long (42 km). The best way to see it all is on a boat tour.

On Bacalar tours of the lagoon, you’ll see all the best sites, including the Canal de los Piratas (Pirate’s Channel), Cenote la Bruja (Witch’s Cenote) and Isla de los Pajaros (Bird Island).

🏊‍♀️ LOS RAPIDOS BACALAR

One of the lagoon’s most popular places to spend the day is Los Rapidos ( The Rapids ). As the name implies, there are actually fast-moving rapids you can ride, swim in and play in!

There’s a restaurant, bar, kayak rentals, water hammocks, swings and bathrooms, so you can easily hang out there all day long.

Los Rapidos is one of the Bacalar balnearios , which are essentially beach clubs.

As Los Rapidos is on the outskirts of Bacalar Lake, definitely check out some of the more centrally-located balnearios , like Cocalitos, Los Aluxes Bacalar and Bacalar Beach Club.

💧 CENOTE AZUL BACALAR

Besides Bacalar Lagoon itself, you’ll want to check out the Bacalar cenotes , including the second most popular place to swim in Bacalar, Cenote Azul ( Blue Cenote ).

This is one of the deepest Yucatan cenotes, at about 300-feet-deep (91 m).

Just as with the balnearios in Bacalar, you could spend the whole day at Cenote Azul, as there’s a restaurant, lockers for your stuff and bathrooms onsite.

How Do I Travel to Bacalar?

✈️ FLYING TO BACALAR

The closest airport is Chetumal International Airport (CTM) , located about 30-45 minutes away in the city of Chetumal. You can get a connecting flight through the Mexico City and Guadalajara Airports.

🚗💨 DRIVING TO BACALAR

Yucatan road trips are quite common, as there’s so many Yucatan Peninsula must see places . For this reason, and because Bacalar is quite remote, driving is a great option.

It is easily accessible from any of the other top Yucatan travel destinations: plan for 4.5 hours from Cancun and Merida , and 3.5 hours from Tulum , Playa del Carmen and Valladolid .

1. Rent with a reputable company! As they say, “you get what you pay for.” For a reliable Cancun car rental company, go with Discover Cars .

2. Avoid driving at night. When you live in Mexico long enough, you start to realize many people simply avoid driving at night, if they can. If you do drive at night, stick to only main roads and highways.

3. Always use the couta , or toll, roads. Yes, they cost money, but they are much better maintained and generally considered safer. Pro tip: Bring cash for the tolls.

4. Download an offline map . Your signal will go in and out as you travel through rural areas of the Yucatan Peninsula, so download an offline map from Google or Maps.Me . You’ll also want to download some podcasts and music while you’re getting that map.

5. Speed limit signs are in kilometers per hour, not miles per hour. You don’t have to worry about conversion math here; just make sure the speed limit sign number matches your speedometer number.

6. Do not use your cell phone while you’re driving . Not only is this unsafe, it is also illegal. In fact, even having your phone in your hand is a ticket-able offense, so try not to even hold your phone while driving.

7. The rumors are true about the cops expecting bribes . If the cops pull you over, and they only will if you give them a reason to, they will expect a cash “payment” in exchange for not ticketing you.

8. Mexican roads are notorious for their abundant amount of topes (speed bumps). Make sure you keep your eyes on the road, as topes don’t always have signs alerting you to them.

9. Mexico’s gas stations are not self-serve. When you stop for gas, an attendant will pump it for you and take your payment. These people don’t actually work for the gas station, and live off tips. When they finish, it’s customary to tip them at least $10-20 pesos ($0.50-$1).

10. Mexico’s traffic lights go from green to yellow, to flashing yellow for a few seconds, to finally, a red light.

11. Make sure you purchase Mexican car insurance. You are generally not covered in any way through your U.S. company when you drive in any other country.

12. Most travel insurance policies cover driving. In case you’re wondering Should I get travel insurance for Mexico? … The answer is hell yes! There’s a whole page of this website dedicated to travel insurance , because it’s just that important — maybe even more so when traveling during the pandemic.

🚌 BUS TO BACALAR

The best way to get to most Mexico hidden gems is actually by bus. Bus transportation in Mexico is very common, just opt for the luxury class busses, sit back and enjoy the ride.

The biggest company is ADO , which goes just about everywhere.

Mexico Hidden Gems: Guanajuato City

2. guanajuato city.

Guanajuato (pronounced wan-uh-wat-toe ) is like being in a painting. You’ll love spending the day taking travel photos while just walking the town’s narrow, winding alleyways.

These quaint streets look like something right out of an old European village — just way more colorful.

Guanajuato is a festive town with several universities and festivals throughout the year. This includes one of the biggest festivals in all of Mexico, the International Cervantino Festival, which takes place in October.

This is followed immediately by Day of the Dead in Guanajuato, Dia de los Muertos , on November 1-2. Guanajuato is one of the best places to celebrate Day of the Dead in Mexico .

🌺💀🌺 Mexico Day of the Dead on your bucket list? Head to this article for info on Day of the Dead in Oaxaca , one of the country’s biggest celebrations.

🗺 Where is Guanajuato located?

Guanajuato City is the capital of Guanajuato state, in central Mexico about 4.5 hours west of Mexico City.

As Guanajuato is both the name of the city and the state, this can get confusing because the town is usually just referred to as Guanajuato, rather than Guanajuato City.

📍 What is Guanajuato Near?

There are so many great places right around Guanajuato that this area of the country makes for a great trip in itself.

The beautiful Mexico colonial towns San Miguel de Allende , Queretaro are nearby, and the smaller pueblos of Peña de Bernal and Tequisquiapan are also less than 1.5 hours away.

Beyond these, Mexico’s largest cities, Mexico City and Guadalajara , are both accessible by rental car , bus, or a short flight.

🌡 What’s the best time to visit Guanajuato?

Central Mexico, where Guanajuato is located, has what’s known as an “Eternal Spring” climate. This means Guanajuato weather is pleasant year-round.

The dry season runs November-May, which coincides with traveling to Guanajuato for Day of the Dead in Mexico . If you do want to visit during Día de Muertos, make sure to book your Guanajuato hotel well in advance.

🤔 Is Guanajuato worth visiting?

There’s a lot to do in Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town itself is not huge, but it is gorgeous, and actually considered one of the most beautiful places in Mexico.

For those seeking a unique Mexico cultural experience, you’ll love Guanajuato City.

MEXICO HIDDEN GEMS: GUANAJUATO CITY

Best things to do in guanajuato city.

🇲🇽 DOWNTOWN GUANAJUATO

The best way to experience Guanajuato City is by just walking around downtown, with essentially no agenda.

This walkable city has numerous great plazas, cafes, churches, buildings and colorful streets where you’ll love taking some travel photos  — and then taking even more photos! 

📸 Head here for a complete guide to all the best things to see in Guanajuato City .

💋 ALLEY OF THE KISS (CALLEJON DEL BESO)

Callejon del Beso ( Alley of the Kiss ) is located up on one Guanajuato’s many hills. It is behind Plaza de Los Angeles ( Plaza of the Angels ), and not far from Teatro Juarez Theater and Jardin de la Union ( Union Garden ).

I’ll let you google the story for yourself, but if there was ever a Mexican “Romeo & Juliet” story, it happened on the two balconies.

🧟‍♀️ Guanajuato MUMMY MUSEUM

The town’s most popular museum, and among the top things to do in Guanajuato, is visit the Museo de las Momias (Mummy Museum). As the name says, it really is a museum of mummies — real mummies.

How Do I Travel to Guanajuato City?

🚗💨 DRIVING TO GUANAJUATO CITY

Located in Central Mexico, the Mexico City to Guanajuato drive is about 4-5 hours. It is also about four hours from Guadalajara by car. This is generally considered a safe drive — as long as you do not drive at night.

Looking to rent a car for the drive? Check out this detailed guide, Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know .

🚌 BUS TO GUANAJUATO CITY

Mexico’s bus transportation is safe, inexpensive and reliable. For extra comfort at not much of a price difference, opt for a luxury class bus, sit back and enjoy the ride.

The biggest company is ADO , which goes just about everywhere in Mexico, but there’s also Primera Plus .

✈️ FLYING TO GUANAJUATO CITY

You can fly directly into Guanajuato International Airport (BJX) , located about 30 minutes from downtown Guanajuato.

The nearby Queretaro International Airport (QRO) has several direct flights from the U.S. to Mexico, so if you’re planning a Guanajuato – San Miguel de Allende – Queretaro trip, you can compare prices.

Mexico Hidden Gems: Isla HOLBOX

3. holbox island.

Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh ) is one of the best beach towns in Mexico , and the only island on this list of off the beaten path Mexico hidden gems.

The thing you’ll love most about Holbox is that it still manages to feel like the small town fishing village it was 20 years ago.

With the exception of a few work trucks, cars aren’t allowed on this incredible Mexico beach island. There are no street lights, golf carts and bikes remain the main modes of transport, and the roads are paved with beach sand.

You won’t find tourist shops, Holbox tours operators don’t scream at you to buy from them, and there’s not even chain restaurants. It’s just beautiful beaches for miles, hammocks in the water, and good vibes.

🗺 Where is Holbox located?

Isla Holbox is an island in Quintana Roo state , in the Yucatan Peninsula of southeastern Mexico. It is located in the Caribbean Sea in the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, a protected natural area.

📍 What is Holbox Near?

As an island, there’s not much near it, but being in the Yucatan Peninsula, there are many other places easily accessible to Holbox Island, Mexico.

Many head to Holbox from Cancun, which is about three-hours by car to the town of Chiquila, where you catch the Holbox ferry.

📆 What’s the best time to visit Holbox Island?

Located in the tropics, Holbox has hot, rainy, summers. However, many visit during this time to swim with the whale sharks in Holbox, which migrate past the island from June-September.

Beyond this popular time to visit, the months of November-March are the nicest to visit Holbox. 

🤔 Is Holbox Island worth visiting?

Holbox Island is a wonderful place with a great mix of small town feel, beautiful beaches and nature, and even a bit of nighttime options.

It can be a bit of a trek to get there, but if you’re seeking unique places to visit in Mexico, Holbox checks a lot of boxes.

Mexico Hidden Gems: ISLA HOLBOX

Best things to do in holbox island.

🏝 Lay in THE Holbox HAMMOCKS

One of the most Instagram worthy spots are the Holbox hammocks in the water. If you’re looking for a relaxing spot, head to the water hammocks at Punta Cocos beach.

The more famous hammocks are on the other end of the island at Playa Holbox beach, where you’ll also find the colorful HOLBOX letters sign.

⭐️ BIOLUMINESCENCE ON HOLBOX ISLAND

Beyond the water hammocks during the day, Punta Coco beach is a great spot to watch the sunset away from the crowds, and really comes alive when the sun goes down.

At night, head to this beach to see the bioluminescence in Holbox. You can (usually) see it all year long, but it’s most vibrant during the New Moon — when the moon’s not visible in the sky.

🐳 SWIM WITH THE WHALE SHARKS iN HOLBOX (Seasonal)

If you visit during June-September, you can take a boat tour to swim with whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean.

While these are technically sharks, they are extremely docile and don’t have sharp teeth. They are huge though — averaging about 40-feet-long (12 m) — and this is an unforgettable experience.

🌎 Practice Responsible Tourism in Mexico: Only use an ethical tour company that keeps the animals’ safety and well being as their top priority when doing a Holbox whale shark tour.

H ow Do I Travel to Holbox Island?

🚗💨 DRIVING TO CHIQUILA (HOLBOX ISLAND)

To get to Holbox from anywhere, you first have to get to the small town of Chiquilá, Mexico. At the Chiquila ferry dock, you’ll buy your ticket and take the 20 minute ferry to Holbox Island.

Upon arriving to Chiquila in your rental car , you’ll have to leave it there before taking the Holbox ferry because cars are not allowed on the island.

Not to worry; there are paid parking lots right next to the dock that cost about $5 USD per day. 

🚌 BUS TO CHIQUILA FERRY ( HOLBOX ISLAND )

Most Yucatan bus companies have daily trips to/from Chiquila, at varying levels of comfort.

The biggest bus company is ADO , which goes just about everywhere and has luxury class buses, though Oriente and Mayab are other Chiquila bus options.

🚢 HOLBOX ISLAND FERRY

There are a couple of ferry companies that run daily, every hour or so, from about 6am-8pm. Keep in mind Isla Holbox runs on “island time,” meaning schedules are a little more laid back.

You can buy your Holbox ferry tickets right at the dock in Chiquila.

✈️ FLYING TO HOLBOX ISLAND

Holbox also has a small airport for private planes, Aerodromo de Holbox or Holbox Aerodrome (code: HOL) .

You charter the plane from Cancun for this 35-minute flight, which will cost about $600 USD for up to five people on a one-way charter.

Mexico Hidden Gems: Oaxaca City

4. oaxaca city.

Of all the places on this list, Oaxaca likely has the most name recognition, as far as Mexico hidden gems go.

But how many people do you know who have actually visited? Your answer is likely not many. This is unfortunate, because Oaxaca is simply amazing.

There’s everything here: amazing Oaxacan food , rich history, colorful festivals like Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, beautiful nature, colonial architecture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, indigenous artisan communities, and more.

🗺 Where is Oaxaca located?

Oaxaca City, Mexico , is the capital of Oaxaca state. It is located in southern Mexico, about six hours south of Mexico City .

Oaxaca is the name of the city and the state, though the town is usually just referred to as Oaxaca, rather than Oaxaca City, or Oaxaca de Juarez, its official name.

🌺💀🌺 Day of the Dead in Oaxaca

For a truly Mexico bucket list experience, the Oaxaca Dia de los Muertos celebration is well worth the trip.

Head to the linked article for everything you need to know for Oaxaca travel planning to one of the best places to experience Day of the Dead in Mexico.

📍 What is Oaxaca Near?

Oaxaca is surrounded by many other great Mexico states, but travelers commonly spend time in both Oaxaca City and the beaches of Oaxaca.

The most popular beaches include Puerto Escondido , Huatulco , Zipolite , the famed nudist beach in Mexico, and Mazunte , one of the 135 pueblos magicos in Mexico.

📆 What’s the best time to visit Oaxaca?

Want to know the best time to travel to Oaxaca ? Oaxaca City’s temperate climate means this city is basically a year-round destination.

You’ll want to try to avoid Oaxaca’s rainy season from June to September, but during the other months you’ll enjoy warm days and cool nights.

If you want to avoid the crowds, Oaxaca City’s busy season runs from late-October for Day of the Dead , through March.

Though possibly rainy, many visit Oaxaca City for the Guelaguetza Festival in July. This is known as the largest folkloric festival in Latin America, and a must for culture travelers.

🤔 Is Oaxaca worth visiting?

Can we curse around here!!? …because FU+K YES Oaxaca is worth visiting!

Oaxaca, in a word, is magical. This is the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be, and also known as a Foodie Capital of Mexico, so what’s not to love about Oaxaca!?

🍷🍽 Doing some Oaxaca solo travel? Don’t miss this article,  Eating Alone While Traveling: How to Overcome Your Fear

MEXICO HIDDEN GEMS: OAXACA CITY

Best things to do in oaxaca city.

🇲🇽 Oaxaca Centro Historico 

The best way to experience the city is by strolling downtown to see all the top sites in Oaxaca, like Templo de Santo Domingo, home to the Oaxaca Botanical Garden .

There’s also great museums, like the Oaxaca Textile Museum, mercados (markets) to sample delicious Oaxacan food , and beautiful buildings and colorful streets.

📸 Head here for a complete guide to all the best things to see in Centro Historico , Oaxaca City.

💧 HIERVE EL AGUA IN OAXACA

Hierve el Agua (Boiling Water) is one of most beautiful and Instagram worthy Oaxaca places.

Actually, it’s technically about 40 miles outside of the city in the town of Roeguia, but you can get there within an hour by taxi or opt to go on a Hierve el Agua tour .

🗿 MONTE ALBAN Oaxaca

Both Centro Historico (Historic Downtown) and Monte Alban are UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Oaxaca.

The prehispanic city of Monte Alban functioned as the capital of Oaxaca’s indigenous Zapotec people until 800 AD, when it was then uninhabited for unknown reasons.

As one of the top Oaxaca sites, head there early to beat the crowds.

💀 BONUS: DAY OF THE DEAD in oaxaca

Each year, from November 1-2, many Mexicans believe the veil to the spirit world is lifted and our departed family members return Earth-side.

Rather than a somber funerary event, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a celebration.

Families join together to create elaborate ofrendas (alters), filled with marigold flowers, candles, copal incense, photos of their loved one, and whatever food and drink they would want to consume on their arrival.

🌺💀🌺 Head here for a complete guide to planning your trip to Day of the Dead in Oaxaca City .

How Do I Travel to Oaxaca City?

✈️ FLYING TO OAXACA

You can fly directly into Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) , as there’s direct flights from several U.S. cities.

The airport is only about 25 minutes from downtown, and easily accessible by taxi, colectivo (small, shared van) or private taxi.

🚕 Oaxaca Travel Tips : There’s no Uber in Oaxaca , but there are plenty of taxis. There is also a ride-share app called DiDi, where you can call a taxi and pay via app.

🚗💨 Driving TO OAXACA CITY

Oaxaca is in southern Mexico, about six hours by car from Mexico City.

The drive is generally considered safe, but make sure you always rent a car in Mexico from a reputable company, like Discover Cars , and get full coverage insurance.

🚌 BUS TO OAXACA

For bus travel, ADO , Mexico’s largest company, has day and overnight trip options. As roads in Oaxaca aren’t always the best, taking the bus sometimes doubles travel time.

🏝 OAXACA CITY TO PUERTO ESCONDIDO 

Also headed to the coast of Oaxaca? Smart choice!

Coastal Oaxaca has some of the best beaches in Mexico — from the world famous surf town of Puerto Escondido , to the pueblo magico (magic town) of Mazunte , to laid back Huatulco , and the Mexico nude beach of Zipolite .

🚌 🚙 ✈️ Head here to discover all your transportation options in this Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido: 5 Transportation Options .

Mexico Hidden Gems: Tolantongo Caves

5. las grutas tolantongo.

Grutas Tolantongo , AKA Tolantongo grutas or Tolantongo caves, is gorgeous, and one of the most Instagram worthy places in Mexico.

It is also one of the best Mexico City day trips and weekend trips, located about four hours north of the city.

As one of the best Mexico hidden gems, with emphasis on “hidden,” planning a trip to Las Grutas de Tolantongo isn’t always quick.

In fact, the easiest way to go is on a Mexico City to Tolantongo Tour , which is often more economical than visiting on your own.

🗺 Where is Las Grutas Tolantongo located?

The Grutas de Tolantongo is located in Hidalgo state, in central Mexico. Hidalgo state is one of the lesser-visited states in Mexico, but one of the best places to enjoy the country’s lush, green, unspoiled nature.

📍 What is Las Grutas Tolantongo Near?

Hidalgo state and the Tolantongo Grutas is between 3-5 hours from a few other top Mexico travel destinations, like Mexico City to the south, and Guanajuato , San Miguel de Allende , and Queretaro , to the west.

📆 What’s the best time to visit Las Grutas Tolantongo?

Tolantongo is open all year to visit, and as the water comes from a hot spring, you can swim all year also.

As it’s located in Central Mexico, which has what is known as an “Eternal Spring” weather, expect springtime temperatures for most of the year.

🤔 Is Las Grutas Tolantongo worth visiting?

If you have the time in your trip, love being in nature, enjoy venturing off the beaten path, and want to visit one of the most beautiful places in Mexico, then Tolantongo is worth a visit.

As it’s a bit remote, you’ll have to use 1-2 days of your Mexico trip, but you won’t regret it after visiting Grutas Tolantongo.

Mexico Hidden Gems: TOLANTONGO CAVES

Best things to do in grutas de tolantongo.

💧 Tolantongo CAVE AND TUNNEL

Located right next to one another, this part of Tolantongo is where most of the hot water comes from, that then feeds out to the whole site.

To enter, you’ll get in line, which does move fast, and pass under a small waterfall that goes inside the Tolantongo cave.

💧 tolantongo POOLS 

These are Tolantongo hot springs where all the Instagram shots happen. Located right next to the pools, don’t pass up the chance to walk across the Suspension Bridge to get some amazing views of the canyon below.

📸 Tolantongo Travel Tips: If you’re looking to get the Instagram money shot and don’t want any other people in your photos, be at the pools within the first 30 minutes of opening — like I was in the photo above.

💧 tolantongo River

While the Tolantongo pools are the most photographed place, the river is one of the most beautiful places at Tolantongo.

It cascades down in sections, and at each section, you can sit under the water as it falls on you for a natural hydro-massage.

MEXICO HIDDEN GEMS: TOLANTONGO CAVES

How do i travel to grutas de tolantongo .

🎟 Grutas Tolantongo Tours

From Mexico City , a group tour is the most convenient, and often, most inexpensive , way to visit Tolantongo.

You save money not paying for a hotel room at one of the Tolantongo resorts, and returning to the same day. Also, not dealing with a rental car, insurance, gas, and driving in a foreign country makes the tour the easiest option.

Head here for all the best options for Mexico City to Tolantongo tours .

🚗💨 DRIVING TO Las Grutas Tolantongo

Besides a tour, the second easiest way to visit Tolantongo is in a private rental car from Discover Cars .

The drive from Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende , and Guanajuato is about 4-5 hours, and from Queretero , about 2-3 hours.

🚌 BUS TO Las Grutas Tolantongo

As bus travel is quite popular in Mexico, there is a way to get from Mexico City to Grutas Tolantongo on the bus, however, it does take a while.

Head here for the complete Mexico City to Tolantongo bu s and public transport route.

Mexico Hidden Gems: San cristobal de las casas

6. san cristobal de las casas.

Located about 1.5 miles above sea level, way up in the Central Highlands, you’ll find the mountain town of S an Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico .

This pueblo magico (magic town) lives up to its magical name for nature, food and culture lovers.

Those continuing on to Central America from Mexico will often use San Cristobal as a last stop, because you can do a land crossing into Guatemala from this part of Mexico.

This is also a popular place for backpackers, as it’s safe and inexpensive.

🗺 Where is San Cristobal de las Casas located?

San Cristobal de las Casas is the Chiapas state, located in southern Mexico.

It is at a higher elevation of about 1.5-miles (2.4 km), so make sure you’re prepared with an altitude sickness bracelet  and  altitude sickness meds so you don’t get altitude sickness if you’re not used to being this high up.

📍 What is San Cristobal de las Casas Near?

San Cristobal borders Oaxaca state to the west, and Guatemala to the east. It is the second biggest city in the state, behind the capital city, Tuxtla Guitierrez.

Many combine their trip with visits to Tuxtla Guitierrez, as well as Palenque and Chiapa de Corzo, two of the Mexico pueblos magicos .

📆 What’s the best time to visit San Cristobal de las Casas?

Located quite far up in the mountains, San Cristobal de las Casas weather is cooler than what most associate with Mexico weather. It’s more of a misty rainforest feel here, with cooler temperatures, and a pretty intense rainy season.

For the best weather, head to San Cristobal from November to April.

🤔 Is San Cristobal de las Casas worth visiting?

San Cristobal de las Casas still feels very connected to its indigenous Mayan heritage.

This is the perfect place for anyone who wants a true Mexican cultural experience, but also posh accommodations — like Hotel Bo and Casa del Alma Hotel Boutique & Spa — two of the best hotels in San Cristobal de las Casas.

MEXICO HIDDEN GEMS: SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS

Best things to do in san cristobal.

🚶‍♀️ Stroll San Cristobal Centro Historico 

San Cristobal is a small Colonial town, and completely walkable.

Spend some time just roaming the streets to see the colorful buildings and eat amazing food — perhaps some you’ve prepared in a cooking class — and at the Mayan Textiles Museum, the best museum in San Cristobal.

🚤 Sumidero Canyon Boat Tour

Head back to Tuxtla Gutierrez to do the boat tour of Cañyon del Sumidero (Sumidero Canyon), one of the largest navigable canyons on Earth. In some areas, the walls of Canyon Sumidero are 3,300-feet-tall (1,000 m).

You can usually purchase a tour for about $30 USD from a number of tour operators in Downtown San Cristobal de las Casas.

🗿 Palenque Ruins

Don’t miss some of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico in Palenque, a pueblo magico . If you have the time, spend the night there, as it’s about five hours from San Cristobal.

There are day trips to Palenque from San Cristobal, though it is a long day.

How Do I Travel to San Cristobal de las Casas?

✈️ FLYING TO SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS

The closest airport to San Cristobal de las Casas is Tuxtla Gutierrez International Airport (Code: TGZ) . It is located in Tuxtla Gutierrez, the capital and largest city in Chapas state.

From there, you can take a colectivo (small, shared van), taxi, or rental car for the one hour drive to San Cristobal.

🚕 San Cristobal de las Casas Travel Tips : There’s no Uber in San Cristobal and no Uber in Chiapas state, but there are plenty of taxis.

🚗💨 DRIVING TO San cristobal

As Chiapas is quite remote, you might not want to drive here. The closest place frequented by visitors is Oaxaca City , at about 8-9 hours away, though this isn’t known to be the safest drive.

🚌 BUS TO San cristobal

As San Cristobal is a popular place for backpackers, bus travel here is quite popular.

As not much is near here, opt for a luxury class bus ticket on ADO , for what might be a long journey to this off the beaten path Mexico destination.

Mexico Hidden Gems: CAMPECHE

7. campeche city.

Though San Francisco de Campeche City, AKA Campeche City, is quaint at about 25 square blocks, there’s still some amazing things to do in Campeche, Mexico .

The walled city of Campeche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its beautiful colorful streets, and fort walls once used to ward off pirate attacks. 

🗺 Where is Campeche City located?

Campeche City is the capital of Campeche state , one of the three states that make up the Yucatan Peninsula . It is located on the Gulf of Mexico, in southeastern Mexico, and the least-visited of the three Yucatan states.

📍 What is Campeche City Near?

Campeche state borders Yucatan state, so it’s not far from the top destinations in that state, Merida and Valladolid . In fact, Campeche is one of the best day trips from Merida . 

📆 What’s the best time to visit Campeche City?

Being in the Yucatan, it’s hot, rainy and humid in Campeche from about April to October.

As with the entire Yucatan Peninsula, the best time to visit is from November to March when the temperatures cool down and it’s pleasant to walk outside.

🤔 Is Campeche City worth visiting?

For those traveling to Merida, don’t pass up the opportunity for a Merida to Campeche day trip or overnight trip.

As it’s quite small, Campeche City makes a great place to spend 1-2 days before continuing to explore other parts of the state.

The top places to visit in Campeche, aside from Campeche City, include Calakmul Mayan Ruins , Isla Aguada pueblo magico and Ciudad del Carmen, some of the best beaches in Campeche Mexico .

Best Things to do in Campeche

🏴‍☠️ Visit the Campeche Forts

Centuries ago, Campeche was vulnerable to pirate attacks due to its location on the Gulf of Mexico.

Now that pirates don’t pose a threat, you can take a leisurely walk along the rampart walls atop the Fuerte de San Miguel (Saint Michael’s Fort), and visit the bright yellow Fuerte de San Jose el Alto (Saint Jose’s Fort).

🚍 Campeche Tram Tour

You’ll find the bright red and green trams parked at Independence Square, AKA the Zocalo , or main square, in Downtown Campeche City.

There are two routes for tram tours in Campeche offered: Tranvia de la Ciudad (City Tram Tour) and El Guapismo (The Handsome Tour), a longer tour which goes along the Gulf of Mexico and passes by the Fuerte de San Jose el Alto.

🌅 Sunset at the Campeche Malecon

The Campeche Malecon (boardwalk) is located all along the Gulf of Mexico, and makes for the perfect place for a sunset stroll.

There are a few parks, sculptures and monuments along the Malecon that are of interest, namely the Campeche Letters sign, Angel Maya (Mayan Angel) and Novia del Mar (Ocean’s Girlfriend) sculptures.

Mexico Hidden Gems : CAMPECHE

How do i travel to campeche .

🚗💨 DRIVING TO Campeche City

The Merida to Campeche drive is only about 90-minutes, and from Valladolid, slightly longer.

From other parts of the Yucatan, like Tulum and Playa del Carmen , it’s a bit further, but still a totally safe drive in your rental car .

🚌 BUS TO Campeche City

The same with driving, it is an easy bus trip from Merida to Campeche, and also from Valladolid.

For this trip, check the schedule with ADO , Mexico’s largest bus company, which offers several trips each day from Merida and Valladolid.

✈️ FLYING TO Campeche City

There is a small airport, Campeche International Airport (CPE) , that you can fly into through a connecting flight from Mexico City International Airport.

Mexico Hidden Gems: Tepoztlan

8. tepoztlan.

In search of the best Mexico City off the beaten path destination? Look no further than the “magic town” pueblo magico Tepoztlan .

This haven for spiritual seekers and healers, wellness enthusiasts, yogis, artists and the like, is also one of the best day trips from Mexico City .

🗺 Where is Tepoztlan located?

Tepoztlan (pronounced tep-poze-lan) , is located just in Central Mexico, just one hour south of Mexico City in Morelos state . This is one of the smallest states in Mexico, and Tepoztlan is a top destination in Morelos.

📍 What is Tepoztlan Near?

Besides its proximity to Mexico City , many also like to check out another beautiful place in Morelos state, Cuernavaca , a historic colonial town.

Besides these cities, the Taxco pueblo magico , a gorgeous old silver mining town, is about two hours south.

📆 What’s the best time to visit Tepoztlan?

Tepoztlan, located in Central Mexico, has the “Eternal Spring” climate, so it’s more or less a year-round destination with moderate temperatures. The dry season runs October-May, and the summer months can be quite rainy. 

🤔 Is Tepoztlan worth visiting?

Tepoztlan is one of those places some people visit once, and end up moving to.

It has its own vibe and attracts spiritual types and artists in droves, but for those not looking to relocate, it does make for a great wellness weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City.

Best Things to Do in Tepoztlan

🗿 Climb the tepozteco pyramid

For many, no visit to Tepoztlan is complete without climbing to the Tepozteco pyramid. It is quite an intense climb to the top, but the views are spectacular.

This pyramid is dedicated to Tepoztēcatl, the ancient Aztec god of pulque (pronounced pull-kay ), Mexico’s original adult beverage!

🔮 Temazcal Purification ceremony

As one of the top places for spirituality and wellness in Central Mexico, many take advantage of the ancient healing practices still offered in Tepoztlan today.

One of the most popular is a temazcal ceremony .

A temazcal (pronounced tem-maz-scal ), is similar to a Native American sweat lodge, and has been used for centuries in Mexico for purification of the body and mind.

🌶 Visit the Tepoztlan Market

Head to the main mercado in town, City Market of Tepoztlan, to sample some pulque . This is a centuries-old prehispanic beverage made from the fermented agave plant — the same plant used to make tequila and mezcal . Though an acquired taste, pulque (pronounced pull-kay), is lovingly refered to as “the drink of the gods.” It is just one of the interesting things to try at this lively mercado in Tepoztlan.

Also be on the lookout for vendors selling prehispanic foods, like alache , a dark green veggie, and itacates , fried corn cakes.

If you eat meat, try the cecina , a cured, dried steak meat famous in Morelos state.

For a sweet treat, don’t miss the tepoznieves . This is a shaved ice or sorbet made with fresh fruit, chocolates and many other flavors. It is very refreshing on a hot day in Tepoztlán, Mexico.

How Do I Travel to Tepoztlan ?

The closest airport to Tepoztlan is Mexico City International (code: MEX).

As driving in Mexico City isn’t for the faint of heart, you might want to just opt for a tour to Tepoztlan, or take the bus.

There are several bus companies in Mexico , like ADO and Primera Plus, with multiple Mexico City to Tepoztlan trips each day.

Mexico Hidden Gems: Cholula, Puebla

The state of Puebla , where Cholula is located, seems like its own country altogether. Poblanos, as the locals are known, have their own foods, slang and customs from the rest of Mexico.

Cholula is one of the most colorful towns in the state of Pubela, and all of Mexico.

🌶 Fun Fact: Cholula brand hot sauce is named in homage to this 2,500-year-old Colonial town.

🗺 Where is Cholula located?

Cholula, Mexico, is in Puebla state, located one state to the southeast of Mexico City , in Central Mexico. On its south side, Puebla borders the state of Oaxaca .

📍 What is Cholula Near?

The pueblo magico (magic town) of Cholula is about an hour from Puebla City , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the capital of Puebla state.

Atlixco, another pueblo magico is also not far, as well as Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park , home to the Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl Mexico volcanoes.

📆 What’s the best time to visit Cholula?

Blessed with the “Eternal Spring” climate of Central Mexico, Cholula weather is nice for most of the year. The rainy season lasts from June to October.

🇲🇽 Cinco de Mayo in Puebla

Though popular in the U.S., Cinco de Mayo isn’t really celebrated in Mexico besides in Puebla City, where the country’s biggest celebration takes place on May 5th each year.

For this reason, many visit Puebla and nearby Cholula in early-May for the festivals and battle reenactments.

Note: Cinco de Mayo, though one of the most important holidays in Mexico , is not Mexican Independence Day. That takes place on September 16th.

🤔 Is Cholula worth visiting?

Cholula is a small town and makes for a nice day trip from Puebla, or even overnight trip from Mexico City.

For those visiting Puebla City and state, do not pass up the opportunity to visit the colorful, historic city of Cholula.

Best Things to do in Cholula

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Historic Downtown Cholula

Spend the day exploring historic downtown San Andrés Cholula, to see all the colorful buildings, streets and churches.

Ancient legends use to say Cholula had 365 churches, one for each day of the year, and though that has been debunked, it feels like there are 365 because they are all very grand and elaborate.

💒 Our Lady of Remedies Church (Cholula Church)

Of all the churches, none is more iconic and recognizable than Cholula’s giant yellow and white Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, which towers over the city.

While this grand 16th Century Catholic church is a masterpiece, its coolest feature is located beneath it ⤵

▲ Great Pyramid of Cholula

Located under the church — yes, under it — is the Great Pyramid of Cholula.

This is the largest pyramid, by volume, found on Earth; bigger than any pyramid in Egypt or elsewhere.

After seeing the church, pay a visit to this large, well-reserved archaeological site used by the Aztecs to worship their central deity, Quetzalcoatl (pronounced ketz-al-koh-at-lal ).

How do I Travel to Cholula ?

🚗💨 DRIVING TO Cholula

From Puebla City, this is an easy and short 30-minute drive in your rental car .

It’s also doable from any of the neighboring states and Mexico City, as long as you’re only planning to drive during the day.

🚌 BUS TO Cholula

With service to all parts of Mexico, ADO is always an option for a trip to Cholula.

The smaller company, Primera Plus , also services much of Central Mexico, but regardless of your choice, make sure to upgrade to first class if you have a longer ride.

✈️ FLYING TO Cholula

Puebla, the fifth largest city in Mexico, has its own airport, Puebla International Airport (PBC) .

From there, you can rent a car, take an Uber, taxi, or shared transportation for the 30-45 minute trip to Cholula.

Mexico Hidden Gems: Sauylita

10. sayulita.

It’s almost as if good vibes were invented in this chill bohemian haven of Sayulita, Mexico , one of the safest places to travel in Mexico.

This laid back Mexico beach town is also one of the best places to surf in Mexico.

Besides surfing, just what made this otherwise tiny beachfront pueblo so famous and Instagram worthy?

The colorful Sayulita flags, called papel picado, are traditional Mexican folk art paper flags.

While you’ll find them in other places in Mexico during holidays and celebrations, Sayulita has them up all year.

🗺 Where is Sayulita located?

Sayulita is in Nayarit state , in southern-central Mexico. It is located on some of the best beaches in all Mexico, known as the Riviera Nayarit, on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.

📍 What is Sayulita Near?

Sayulita is only about an hour from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico , one of the top Mexico travel destinations.

Many also spend some time visiting the next town over, San Pancho , a laid-back haven for surfers, yogis and digital nomads, and among the best non touristy places in Mexico.

📆 What’s the best time to visit Sayulita?

As with nearly all beach towns in Mexico, the ideal time to visit Sayulita is from November to April.

During the summer months, you can expect heavy rains, hot and humid days, and even the possibility of a hurricane.

🤔 Is Sayulita worth visiting?

It is definitely worth visiting if you want to experience small town Mexico, mixed with a beach.

In fact, some go for a Sayulita day trip from Puerto Vallarta, and end up wishing they had opted for Sayulita instead because it is much calmer and more peaceful, with equally-beautiful beaches.

Mexico Hidden Gems: Sayulita

Best things to do in sayulita.

🏄‍♀️ SURF LESSONS IN SAYULITA

Always wanted to try surfing? Now’s your chance, surfing in Sayulita is one of the best things to do.

There is a great wave that breaks just offshore, which is perfect for beginners, and plenty of surf schools on Playa Sayulita, the main beach near downtown.

If surfing’s not for you, there are plenty of other things to do in Sauylita Mexico that involve just being on some of the best beaches in Riviera Nayarit.

🏝 PLAYA DE LOS MUERTOS

Playa de los Muertos (Beach of the Dead) is something you don’t see everyday.

Sayulita is a beach town, and part of a larger beach community, and they have to work with what they’ve got, so one of their cemeteries is located just behind this beach. It’s arguably one of the best beaches in Sayulita, too.

ISLAS MARIETAS TOUR: Mexico hidden beach

The Marietas Islands is truly a Mexico bucket list experience, and the home to the famous hidden beach in Mexico, Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach). 

There are two Islas Marietas tours offered: One lets you swim and snorkel near the islands, and the other one lets you actually go onto the secret beach.

Mexico, in an effort to keep this place pristine, only allows about 125 visitors per day — so tours sell out fast and in advance.

If visiting one of the most secluded beaches in Mexico is on your travel agenda, secure your spot on the Hidden Beach and Snorkeling Tour before you even arrive to Sayulita, to ensure you get one of those few coveted spots.

How Do I Travel to Sayulita?

✈️ FLYING TO SAYULITA

Getting to Sayulita is easy, as you’ll fly into Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) , which has direct flights from many major U.S. cities.

From there, you’ll drive your rental car , or take an Uber, private transport service, or public bus, for the one-hour trip to Sayulita.

🚗💨 DRIVING TO SAYULITA

Driving only makes sense from Puerto Vallarta or Guadalajara . In fact, if you’re just staying in Sayulita, you might want to skip driving at all.

However, if you’re you’re also visiting the great areas near Sayulita — Puerto Vallarta , San Francisco (AKA San Pancho ), Guadalajara, Tequila and San Sebastian del Oeste — a rental car is a great option.

🚌 BUS TO SAYULITA

You can take a bus to Sayulita from all places mentioned above. For longer trips, opt for a luxury class ticket on ADO or Primera Plus , as the price difference isn’t much, but the quality is significantly better.

Mexico Hidden Gems

Mexico travel guide: frequently asked questions.

1. Is Mexico safe for travel?

Short answer: Yes! Aside from hurricanes and petty crime, all of the best Mexican beach towns listed here are safe, both for Mexico solo travel and travel with a group.

🎧 Love podcasts? Check out this Mexico podcast which does a deep dive into the topic of safe Mexico travel.

As no place on Earth is 100% safe, including Mexico, you’ll want to, of course, follow the 10 General Travel Safety Tips below, the same ones you would follow when traveling anywhere on Earth.

You should also register for the U.S. STEP Program and put your mind at ease by purchasing Mexico travel insurance .

Wondering Should I get travel insurance for Mexico?

Want an added level of security and peace of mind during these strange travel times?

Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while traveling.

If Mexico travel safety is on your mind, get your free quote below from World Nomads, one of the biggest names in travel insurance for Mexico and beyond.

• Don’t walk home alone at night if you can help it.
• Always listen to your intuition because your intuition is always right.
• If you get a sketchy or uneasy feeling about a person or place, get away from that person or place immediately. If you feel you’re in danger, don’t worry about making a kind, nice, or politically correct exit from a creepy person or bad situation — Just get away ASAP.
• Don’t keep your phone, keys, wallet, passport, or anything valuable in your back pocket.
• Learn some basic Spanish. If you can’t learn it, save this infographic as an image on your phone so you have something to use even if you’re off-WiFi.
• Take all of your belongings into the bathroom with you, rather than asking a cafe/bar neighbor to watch your things.
• Speaking of bar neighbors, don’t take drinks from strangers and/or leave your drink unattended near one.
• Don’t wear flashy clothes, expensive jewelry, designer sunglasses, etc.
• Keep some cash in your pocket so you don’t have to pull your whole wallet out every time you need to pay.
• This should be a no brainer since you’re traveling during a pandemic, but get Travel Insurance !

Make sure you enroll in the FREE   STEP Program  before your trip.

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, allows U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico to document your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

After you’ve registered, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can contact you in the event of an emergency, including natural disasters, civil unrest, etc.

STEP can also put you in touch with your family and friends back home, in the event of an emergency while abroad.

2. Is it safe to drive in Mexico?

Short answer: Yes! In fact, the easiest, fastest and most convenient way to travel to most Mexico hidden gems is via rental car.

As a general rule, driving in Mexico is considered safe.

However, there’s the obvious caveat to that: Since you will be driving in another country, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with Mexico driving laws, or ask the agent at your car rental for advice.

For your convenience, there are 12 useful Mexico driving tips below to help you with how to drive in Mexico.

For a Mexico car rental provider, Discover Cars is a great company that compares prices at numerous Mexico car rental agencies all over the country to get you the best price.

3. Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely not — U.S., Canadian, Japanese and the majority of European passport holders don’t need a visa to travel to Mexico. This is just one reason Mexico is one of the best travel destinations for Americans and most other travelers.

When you arrive in Mexico and go through Customs and Immigration, you’ll receive a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist visa.

This is a small piece of paper that you need to hold on to so you can give it back to an Immigration officer when you leave the country, so don’t lose your FMM!

🚨 Update on FMM visas

In 2022, some airports have switched to a passport stamp, rather than the FMM paper visa.

4. Best time to visit Mexico?

For much of the country, the best time to visit is the Mexico dry season, November to March . During these cooler, winter months, temperatures are warm but pleasant.

However, make sure to double check the weather reports because places like in Central Mexico, like Mexico City and Guadalajara, do get cold.

If you’re visiting any of the Mexico beach towns , November to March is the perfect time because these months are warm, but not humid, and the mosquitoes are at bay.

It will also be after Hurricane Season ends, and you’ll likely have no rain at all.

5. What do I pack for Mexico?

Wondering exactly what to pack for Mexico? Head to this article for a complete guide on packing for your Mexico trip, Ultimate Packing List for Mexico .

🧳 FREE PRINTABLE PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

In the article linked above, you can also download your FREE printable checklist so you don’t forget anything when you’re packing for Mexico.

This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers both Mexico beach packing, and packing for Mexico City and all cities. It tells you everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico .

Final Thoughts: Best Mexico Hidden Gems

These 10 places featured here are all top Mexico destinations — for those who want to venture off the beaten path. They are all safe, beautiful, unique, and worth checking out.

While the phrase “off the beaten path” is subjective, I hope you discovered some places in Mexico you’ve never heard of after reading this article.

The 10 towns featured in this article might not have the name recognition of places like Cancun and Cabo, but they are some of the most beautiful places in Mexico, just not the usual ones you already know about.

In an effort to keep this article to a reasonable size, the list was capped to the Top 10 Mexico hidden gems. However, be sure to discover even more of Mexico in these related Mexico travel blogs.

• 30 Best Mexican Beach Towns You Need to Visit Right Now
• Solo Travel in Mexico: 20 Destinations You Need To Visit
• 25 Best Places in the Yucatan Peninsula to Visit

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

The Most Underrated Cities In Mexico

Mexico may have you thinking of sandy beaches and the big city, but there is so much more to discover here.

Mexico is a country that is a lot of fun to visit. There are amazing museums, restaurants, historical sites, and beaches. What more could you want out of a vacation destination? Although there are a lot of really popular cities around Mexico that just about everyone thinks of when they're planning a trip to this country, there are also some that are a little less common for people to take a trip to.

Related:  10 Etiquette Tips To Know Before Traveling To Mexico

While Mexico City and Cabo are wonderful destinations in Mexico, there are a lot of other great cities to visit that are a little more on the underrated side. If you're looking to experience a different side of Mexico, visiting these cities is a must!

To see 10 underrated cities in Mexico, keep reading!

Merida isn't just the name of one of Disney's two redheaded princesses . Mérida is also the name of a city in Mexico that is pretty underrated among visitors, but definitely worth taking a trip to.

Mérida is a city that is located pretty near some other cities in Mexico, meaning that it's really easy to get there. The fact that it's easy to get to doesn't mean that it's become overrun with tourists by a lot of other Mexican cities, though. This city is one with a rich history of the Mayan culture and archaeological sites.

9 Guadalajara

Guadalajara is among the largest cities in Mexico as far as population goes, but it's still not one that a lot of people immediately think of when they're planning a trip to Mexico. Because of this, it hasn't become overrun with tourists and has stayed unique and fun to visit.

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If you're looking to experience traditional Mexican culture while still being somewhere really modern, Guadalajara is definitely the perfect place to go. This city has a lot of cultural and historic sites, but is a really modern city on the cutting edge of technology.

8 Rincón de Guayabitos

Looking to visit the beach ? There are  so many beautiful beach towns in Mexico, so you won't have to look far before you find one. Many people immediately think of places like Cabo when they think about Mexican beaches, but smaller beach towns like Rincón de Guayabitos are wonderful, too.

Rincón de Guayabitos is located right on the Pacific Ocean on Mexico's coast and is a wonderful smaller town to visit in Mexico. It's definitely a lot quieter than some of the more tourist-oriented beach towns, so it's also quite a bit cheaper than other parts of Mexico.

Xico is a colorful and totally underrated city in the Mexican state of Veracruz. If you're into food, culture, and unique souvenirs that you can take home to remember your trip by, you need to plan a trip to Xico.

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Xico is a small town but it has such a charm and draw that the Mexican government has designated it one of their Pueblos Mágicos, or Magic Towns. Xico is a great place to go to get some tasty food or coffee and to experience some of the cultural festivals that take place in this city.

La Paz is a smaller, coastal city located in Mexico that's perfect for anyone that loves beaches and small town charm. It's located a short distance from the Magical Town of Todos Santos, but it hasn't become super tourist-oriented, meaning that it's safe and quiet .

While in La Paz, you can go snorkeling, walk on the beach, or explore the unique cultural and historical sites in the city. While you're exploring La Paz, look for the unique sculptures that are all around the city on the sidewalks and streets.

Bacalar is located on the coast and is the perfect city in Mexico to visit if you're someone that loves nature and the water. This city has become really popular because of the Lake of the Seven Colors, a unique body of water that blends together shades of blue, green, and turquoise in a way that you have to see to believe.

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Even though Lake of the Seven Colors is beautiful and popular, Bacalar has remained super underrated and a great city in Mexico to visit if you're looking to experience something a little different and go to a more quiet city.

4 Puerto Escondido

Unless you're someone that's seriously into surfing, you've likely never thought about visiting Puerto Escondido before. This city is one that has become popular among the surfers that take trips down to Mexico, but average tourists haven't really flocked to this city.

But, this city is definitely a hidden gem on the Mexican coast. If you're someone that hasn't learned to surf yet, you can rent a board and take lessons here for less than $30 per hour. And if you're not looking to learn, you can relax on the quiet beach or enjoy some delicious, fresh seafood.

3 Tepoztlán

Tepoztlán is a mountain city that's located only a couple hours outside of Mexico City. While Mexico City is a really popular city for tourists to visit, Tepoztlán has remained under the tourism radar for years, despite being a beautiful city.

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This town remains pretty quiet during the week, but it really livens up on the weekends when more people come to visit. If you're looking to visit a calm, quiet Mexican city, definitely plan your visit to Tepoztlán during the week. But even if you show up on a Friday, this city will welcome you happily.

2 Guanajuato City

Guanajuato City is a colorful and beautiful city located in Mexico. Although this city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there are  so many things to do while visiting , it still hasn't become super popular with international tourists that are planning a trip to Mexico.

If you're looking to practice your Spanish, this city is perfect. It hasn't become super tourist-oriented, so a lot of the people working in the shops here and the locals will gladly respond to your questions in Spanish instead of using English, which is a major draw for many visitors.

1 Cuetzalan

If you're looking to go to Mexico to experience the unique culture of this country, look no further than Cuetzalan. Although a lot of cities in Mexico have historic and cultural museums and other tourist attractions, a lot of them have become pretty overrun with tourists. Meanwhile, Cuetzalan is a city that has stayed totally under the tourism radar and is a super underrated town.

Cuetzalan has several delicious restaurants that serve up fresh seafood, is the home of a lot of unique festivals, and is the only place where you can see danza de los voladores, also known as "dance of the flyers." In this performance, talented performers spin around in the air and play music for excited crowds multiple times each day.

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Mexico under caution warning from U.S. for spring break. 5 Florida beach towns to go to instead

Fort lauderdale, panama city and daytona beach not the only florida spring break destinations.

College students and families planning a spring break in Mexico may want to reconsider, according to an advisory issued by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico.

The advisory , posted Monday, says that while many thousands of people travel through Mexico safely, Mexico-bound visitors should be aware of high levels of crime (particularly in the downtown areas of popular spring break destinations Cancún. , Playa Del Carmen and Tulum), sexual assault, counterfeit or ineffective prescription drugs, unregulated alcohol, high-priced hospitals and strict laws against drunk and disorderly behavior, possession of drugs, guns or ammunition, along with natural dangers such as dangerous beaches without lifeguards or warnings.

Well, if you're looking for a new spring break vacation location, the party did start in Florida.

Ever since a New York university swim coach took his team down to Florida one spring for some early training in the 1930s, the idea of spending a week or two in the warm has been a powerful motivator, building up to hundreds of thousands of bathing-suit-clad students bringing their volleyballs and fake IDs to Fort Lauderdale, Panama City Beach and Daytona Beach in the 1980s. Crackdowns on public behavior and stricter alcohol laws calmed the parties down a bit, and famed party town Miami Beach is pushing back hard against spring break this year.

But Florida still remains a top destination for people wanting a break from the cold, with March temps projected in the 70s.

If you're avoiding Mexico this year and don't want to bother with a passport, Fort Lauderdale, Daytona Beach and Panama City Beach are still top places to relax, unwind and enjoy yourself. But the Sunshine State has other locations to consider besides those annual favorites.

‘You are going to pay the price:’ DeSantis sends more cops to Florida spring break hot spots. Here’s where

1. TripAdvisor names Siesta Beach one of the best in the world

If you want the best, head to the west. Siesta Beach in Siesta Key, west of Sarasota on the state's west coast, regularly makes TripAdvisor's list of best beaches based on user reviews. Currently listed at No. 2 in the United States and No. 9 worldwide , the site praises the snow-white sand and small-town feel.

"Whether you want to relax or fill your day with activities, Siesta Beach delivers," Tripadvisor said on its website.

"Kick back on the white sand, go swimming in the clear water, play some outdoor sports, or simply admire the sunset — it's up to you. The family-friendly beach is easy to get to via public transportation, offers wheelchair access, and has plenty of parking, restrooms, and a small concession stand. There are a variety of shops and lively restaurants nearby, too."

Siesta Key, on the brilliant green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, is close to lots of restaurants and bars, a thriving arts community, and one of the largest state parks in Florida, Myakka River State Park.

Take that, Hawaii! : This Florida beach tops Dr. Beach's Top 10 list for 2023

2. Delray Beach a small-town spot with plenty of attraction

Delray Beach , a 15-square-mile city in Palm Beach County, was awarded the prestigious international Blue Flag designation last year, one of only two in the entire U.S., after meeting 33 stringent environmental, educational, safety and accessibility criteria. 

But what visitors will probably be interested in is the vibrant downtown area, huge number of unique restaurants, and, of course, the 7,000 feet of beach with a mile of it blessedly free from looming high-rise condos. Surf, sail, or just hit the water at the beach that "Travel Holiday" magazine named the best public beach in the Southeast for swimming. Or, for some less crowded sand time, head to nearby Atlantic Dunes Park, which features 450 feet of guarded beach.

When the sun goes down or you've just had enough for one day, Delray's Atlantic Avenue is a 20-minute walk from the shore with a staggering assortment of restaurants, bars, art galleries, clothing boutiques and antique stores. A few miles away, Delray Marketplace offers even more. Delray is also convenient to several other excellent beaches and attractions.

3. New Smyrna Beach is Daytona without the crowds, mostly

Daytona Beach is famed for its 26 miles of hard-packed beach and its worldwide tradition of unbridled spring break madness, but if you want a somewhat calmer version just head a bit south to New Smyrna Beach.

Students (and their families) congregate at the beach and hit the charming shops and restaurants on Flagler Avenue for a relaxing week of sand and surf, within easy driving distance of Daytona Beach, Orlando and Cocoa Beach.

However, keep in mind that the city imposed a youth curfew last year to cut down on disruptions, trash and drunk driving so it's likely there'll be one again this year.

4. Key West is still a party town

There's an amazing laid-back party scene year-round in Key West, so why not have your spring break there? The southernmost tip of the continental U.S. is just four miles long by one mile wide so once you get there transportation isn't a problem and live music and great food is never very far away.

Plus Key West may have the most activities to do when you're not actually lying on the beach. Swim, dive down to the coral reefs, fish, take one of the many boat tours or sunset sails, jetski, visit some astounding art galleries, watch the performers at the sunset celebration at Mallory Square, visit Ernest Hemingway's house and pet the descendants of his six-toed cats, eat at some fantastic restaurants, or just cruise Duval Street for colorful nightlife.

If Key West gets too crowded there are wonderful beaches and places to visit on the other Keys, and Key Largo is the diving capital of Florida.

5. Naples is a great family Florida spring break vacation place

Naples in Southwest Florida on the Gulf Coast doesn't get the spring break crowds that nearby Fort Myers does, which may make it more attractive to visitors seeking a more peaceful destination. TripAdvisor calls it a "polished, culture-packed city fringed by blue bays and sugar-sand beaches."

Packed with upscale shopping, parks, art festivals and museums, Naples also boasts nine miles of pristine beaches where you can enjoy the sun, watch for dolphins from Naples Pier (which shoots out 1,000 feet into the Gulf of Mexico) and get extremely fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants .

But really, there are dozens of Florida beachside cities and towns that make great spring break destinations.

Check out the place named best beach town in the nation , or this one Reader's Digest included in their " 15 Best Beaches in Florida Locals Want to Keep Secret " list, or the other beaches TripAdvisor named the best , or the places Florida students go , or the Florida shores that Dr. Beach recommends , or the list of "hottest" spring break beaches .

Florida has 825 miles of sandy beaches. If you want a beach holiday, it's hard to miss here.

Bahama, Jamaica also under travel advisories

The U.S. Department of State issued a travel advisory for Mexico last year, with various levels of travel warnings including a   Level 2 advisory for Cancún for violent crime. Travel advisories have been issued for the Bahamas and Jamaica as well.

The State Dept. has listed 20 locations around the world under Level 3 advisories, meaning visitors should avoid them and reconsider, and 21 Level 4 places they say Americans should not go to at all.

Follow a mile-by-mile map of the total solar eclipse

On April 8, the sun, moon and Earth will enter the precise alignment of a total solar eclipse. The moon will block the sun, casting a shadow across a strip of North America from the Pacific Ocean west of Mexico, through 15 U.S. states, to the Atlantic off Canada.

This strip, roughly 4,000 miles long and 115 miles wide, is called the path of totality. For a short while, everyone and everything in this path will experience midday darkness.

The beginning

2:07-2:11 p.m.

Total time eclipsed

Historic cloud coverage

The moon’s shadow makes landfall in Mexico at 2:07 p.m. Eastern time, casting the first region into darkness. Here, darkness lasts for about four minutes near the center of the path, but decreases in time toward the edges.

A populous path

Nearly 32 million people live in the path of totality this year. The eclipse crosses the homes of more people in Texas alone than the 2017 eclipse crossed nationally.

Eagle Pass, Tex.

2:27-2:31 p.m.

The eclipse crosses into the United States in Eagle Pass, Tex. The border town will be dark for 4 minutes and 23 seconds — over a minute longer than the 2017 eclipse lasted anywhere.

2:35-2:39 p.m.

A 195-mile stretch of Interstate 35 between Austin and Dallas is in the path. Texas officials are already warning drivers not to stop on roadways during the eclipse. You'd have to drive 1,950 miles an hour to keep up with the moon's shadow.

2:40-2:44 p.m.

The nation’s second busiest airport, Dallas Fort Worth International, lies in the path of totality. The airport said flights will not be affected. Some airlines are even offering special flights timed to the eclipse to extend your time in totality.

Hot Springs National Park

2:48-2:53 p.m.

In Arkansas lies Hot Springs National Park, one of two national parks in the path of totality. Parks across the country, even those not in totality, are planning livestreams, shows and talks for the eclipse.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

2:55-2:59 p.m.

Just like many humans, Smokey Bear is also traveling into the path of totality. A 97-foot-tall hot air balloon bearing Smokey’s face is traveling from New Mexico to the Ozarks to remind visitors how to prevent wildfires.

Carbondale, Ill.

2:59-3:03 p.m.

Just past the Mississippi River is Carbondale, Ill., which has billed itself the “Eclipse Crossroads of America” because it sat in the path of the 2017 eclipse.

Check the forecast

At this point in the path, the weather forecast becomes critical for eclipse seekers. The areas from here on are typically cloudier in April than the previous areas, according to an analysis of cloud cover data.

3:13-3:17 p.m.

The eclipse crosses the Cleveland Guardians’s baseball stadium on the team's home opener at about 3:15 p.m. But rather than be interrupted by nearly four minutes of darkness, the game will start two hours after the moon’s shadow passes by.

An influential eclipse

The eclipse next passes over land historically populated by the Haudenosaunee, also known as the Iroquois. Researchers disagree on when the Iroquois Confederacy was established. But tribal oral history indicates the Seneca joined the alliance shortly after witnessing a solar eclipse, which researchers suggest occurred in this area in 1142.

Burlington, Vt.

3:25-3:28 p.m.

About 13,000 schools are in the path of totality, including more than 300 in Vermont. Some plan to incorporate experiencing the eclipse into their lessons, but others plan to let kids out of school early to help avoid traffic bottlenecks.

Piscataquis County, Maine

3:30-3:34 p.m.

The final 150 miles of the Appalachian Trail lie in the path of totality, including Mount Katahdin, the highest point in Maine.

Gulf of St. Lawrence

3:32-3:35 p.m.

The eclipse finally passes over Prince Edward Island before its last hurrah over Newfoundland in Canada, completing its North American journey in a bit more than two hours.

Totality at 2:07 p.m. EDT

About this story

Population calculated by summing 2020 population estimates in 30 arc-second grid cells within the path of totality. Distance covered calculated from the centerline of the path.

Sources: NASA, European Space Agency, U.S. Geological Survey, Natural Earth Data, Census Bureau, OpenStreetMap, GOES imagery analysis by University of Wisconsin at Madison Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies, Center for International Earth Science Information Network

Szu Yu Chen and Lauren Tierney contributed to this report. Editing by Emily M. Eng, Tim Meko and Victoria Jaggard. Copy editing by Angela Mecca.