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Mexico Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 10, 2023

While most people visit Mexico for its big tourist centers like Tulum , Cabo, Cancun , or Cozumel, there’s a lot more to the country than just its luxurious resorts.

Now, I’ll be honest: I was late to visiting Mexico.

But when I did, I fell in love with it. Mexico is an incredible destination with a rich history, amazing food, and friendly people.

It’s an awesome country to backpack around, drive through, or just vacation in. There’s a ton of stuff to do here, and the locals are some of the friendliest people on the planet.

From Mayan ruins to pristine beaches to Mexico City’s art and food and Oaxaca’s mezcal scene, Mexico has it all.

And the food? World-class. Gorge yourself on delicious tacos, tostadas, tamales, sopas, seafood, and mole (to name a few items from Mexico’s very long list of traditional dishes).

I could go on forever as to why I love this country. Whatever amount of time you’re planning to visit is not enough — you’ll always leave wanting more.

This Mexico travel guide will help you get out of the touristy towns, explore the country, and fall in love with what you discover!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Mexico

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in mexico.

1. Explore Oaxaca

Located in a valley surrounded by craggy mountains in southwestern Mexico, Oaxaca and its surrounds have been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. A city of colorful buildings, scenic rooftop restaurants and bars, street art, historic Spanish colonial churches, cobblestone streets, and many parks, it’s a center for heritage tourism. It’s also one of the gastronomic hotbeds of Mexico as well as the hub of mezcal production too. With fascinating museums, bustling markets, historic buildings, delicious food and much more, there really is something for everyone in Oaxaca . I loved my time there ! You must visit!

2. Tour Mexico City

Found in the Valley of Mexico at an altitude of around 2,225 meters (7,300 feet), Mexico City is a sprawling, chaotic, messy city in the best way possible. Originally built over a lake, it has some 150 world-class museums, sprawling markets, tons of historic buildings, city squares, and more. In the historic center, you can visit the impressive main square (the only one bigger in the world is Red Square in Moscow). To the south of the city there’s a network of beautiful canals, and Teotihuacan, the City of the Gods, is just a 45-minute drive away. The city also has an incredible foodie scene and is fast becoming one of the centers of gastronomy in the world.

3. Relax on the Pacific Coast

Vacation spots like Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, and Sayulita on Mexico’s Pacific Coast offer just as many epic beaches and resort properties as the Caribbean Coast. Go to Puerto Vallarta or Los Cabos to hang out on the pristine white sandy beaches, or head to Sayulita to check out the busy surf scene. Surf and enjoy watersports, visit historical monuments, and check out all the local art by day. By night, you can indulge in sunset cocktails, enjoy fresh shrimp tacos or seafood skewers, and salsa the evening away.

4. See the Mayan Ruins

Mexico is filled with ruins. You have Chichén Itzá, which dates back to 550 CE and is one of the largest (and most popular) Mayan sites in Mexico for its enormous Kukulkan Pyramid (which is considered one of the new Wonders of the World). Other ruins worth visiting are the Tulum Archaeological Zone, the Palenque Archaeological Zone, the Calakmul ruins (which are inside the huge Calakmul Biosphere Reserve), the ruins at Ek Balam, and so many more! Admission is 571 MXN for the Wonder of the World Chichén Itzá while the rest cost anywhere from 80-500 MXN.

5. Visit a volcano

Other things to see and do in mexico, 1. wander through mexico city’s chapultepec park.

Chapultepec is one of the largest city parks in the world, spanning over 1,700 acres. It encompasses the Mexico City Zoo, La Feria amusement park, and the Museum of Anthropology, which houses a vast collection of sculptures, jewels, and artifacts from ancient Mexican civilizations. The museum costs 85 MXN, as does the Chapultepec Castillo (Castle) which houses the National History Museum. You can also rent a rowboat or paddle boat and go out on Chapultepec Lake for 60 MXN. Entry to the park itself is free.

2. Visit the markets

Just about every town in Mexico has a busy, diverse market where you can enjoy traditional food, pick up some bargain items, and purchase souvenirs. Two of the best are the Mercado Ciudadela in Mexico City (for handmade textiles and artwork), and Oaxaca’s Mercado Benito Juárez (for local foods like fresh ground coffee beans, juices, and grasshopper tacos). If you’re in Merida, check out Mercado Santa Ana for their Yucatecan cuisine, like cochito horneado , a marinated pork dish that is slow-cooked in underground pits, or head to El Mercado Lucas de Galvez for their specialty seafood cocktails (the locals swear by it to cure your hangover).

3. Explore Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución)

Zócalo is the main plaza in the heart of Mexico City. It dates back to the Aztecs, encompassing both the Templo Mayor (an ancient Aztec temple) and the Palacio Nacional (a colonial palace with offices of Mexico’s president). Situated just off the Zócalo is La Catedral Metropolitana, a magnificent cathedral with a gold altar. It’s a perfect example of Spanish colonial architecture.

4. Go diving

The seas surrounding Mexico have some of the world’s best diving spots thanks to their diverse marine life, large coral reefs (including the second largest reef system in the world, the Great Maya Barrier Reef), and excellent visibility. The Gulf of Mexico is home to five different species of sea turtles, blue whales, lemon sharks, and dolphins, and so much more! Aside from diving, the waters are popular for snorkeling, sports fishing, waterboarding, surfing, and more or less any other watersports. A two-tank dive starts at 2,800 MXN. Some of the best places to dive in Mexico are Discovery Bay, Cenote Dos Ojos, Revillagigedo Islands, and Isla Mujeres.

5. Relax in Cancún

Depending on what you’re looking to do, Cancún can offer you a crazy-fun party in the sun or some quiet and hidden local markets and restaurants. You have spas, resorts, and picturesque beaches as well as Mayan ruins, archaeological sites, and little nearby villages. There’s a ton to see and do here if you leave the resorts!

6. Get lost in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the second-largest city in Mexico and is known for its tequila and mariachi. It’s chock full of museums, such as Cabañas (a UNESCO building with incredible murals), MUSA (paintings & sculptures by local artists), and the Páramo Galeria (contemporary art); nightlife venues, and a labyrinth of old colonial streets. Visit the Hospicio Cabañas, a hospital built in the 19th century, and then spend some time at the Guadalajara Cathedral. The cathedral’s Gothic interior features artworks from famous Mexican artists like Murillo (a Baroque painter).

7. See Teotihuacan

The Aztec empire left an enormous mark on Mexico. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Aztec pyramids at Teotihuacan, located 48 kilometers (30 miles) outside of Mexico City. Teotihuacan was founded as early as 400 BCE, but its biggest structures weren’t completed until around 300 BCE. Its three giant pyramids are known as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of Moon, and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, and they dominate the landscape. If you’re going to visit just one Aztec site, this is it. It’s unsheltered here, so bring sunscreen and a hat. Admission is 85 MXN. Full-day guided tours from Mexico City cost 880 MXN.

8. Visit the bizarre Island of Dolls

Known as “La Isla de la Muñecas” in Spanish, this is perhaps one of the creepiest tourist attractions in the world. Decades ago, a hermit named Don Julian Santana moved here, learned a girl drowned in the nearby lake, and started collecting and hanging dolls all over the island to please the drowned girl’s spirit. It’s creepy. Like beyond creepy. You’ll have to hire a boat from Xochimilco to get there but it’s worth it!

9. Honor the Day of the Dead

Yearly on November 1st and 2nd, Mexico celebrates a major festival: Día de Los Muertos. The festival is a vibrant and lively affair with celebrations for those who are gone but not forgotten, including parades and elaborate and colorful costumes. Families also commemorate their dead relatives by setting up ofrendas , or altars, with pictures of the deceased, candles, yellow marigold petals, and food. This meant to encourage the deceased to cross back over into the land of the living and join in the celebrations. Oaxaca or Mexico City are the two best places to experience this celebration.

10. Visit the UNAM Botanical Garden

If you need to escape the hustle and bustle of Mexico City for a little while, the Botanical Garden at the National Autonomous University of Mexico is the perfect place. Keeping with the Aztec traditions of having gardens for both medicinal and ornamental purposes, there is also an added focus on conservation and environmental education here. Built on top of and around lava formations from the eruption of the volcano Xitle (which happened over 2,000 years ago), visitors can explore the naturally formed grottoes, ponds, and waterfalls. This garden has the most diverse cactus collection in the world (800 different kinds!), and ponds full of koi and turtles, an orchidarium, and a medicinal garden. Admission is free.

11. Relax on Isla Holbox

Holbox is an island located off Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and is home to white sand beaches and crystalline waters. It is a relaxing, slow-paced island that’s easy to get stuck on. One day can easily turn into a week. It’s an island paradise where you can relax in a hammock on the beach, hike in the jungles, swim, dive, snorkel, and everything in between! While it used to be a hidden gem, it’s slowly becoming more and more popular (and developed). Be sure to see bioluminescent waters here. From Cancún, you can get to the ferry port at Chiquilá in around two hours by bus. The ferry takes 25 minutes and costs 220 MXN. If you just want to visit for the day, full-day tours from Cancún/Playa del Carmen cost 3,000 MXN.

12. Visit Mérida

Mérida is one of my favorite places in all of Mexico. It is a safe and wonderful city filled with history, cool mezcal bars, and some of the best food in the country. Some of my favorite places to eat and drink in town are La Chaya Maya Casona, Acervo Mezcalero, La Negrita Cantina, and Café Créme. Also, don’t miss the nearby Uxmal ruins, which are just one-hour away. There are also some cool museums here, like the Folk Art Museum of Yucatan, the Yucatan Music Museum, and the City Museum (which has all kinds of Mayan artifacts).

13. Enjoy San Cristóbal de las Casas’ architecture

San Cristóbal is a highland town known for its charming colonial architecture. There are narrow cobblestone streets, local craft markets, and the entire area is enveloped in pine forests. Don’t miss the town’s 16th-century cathedral, and if you want to get out and explore the nearby nature, take a boat tour of the Cañón de Sumidero. You’ll see tons of birds, monkeys, and crocodiles. For a view of the town and surrounding area, visit the Guadalupe Church to enjoy the view from the roof. Free Walking San Cristóbal offers daily tours if you want a guide to show you the highlights.

14. Sample the Cenotes of Yucatan

Cenotes are natural sinkholes that are full of groundwater. They were used by the Mayans as sources for freshwater, however, today they are popular swimming holes for locals and tourists alike (you can even scuba dive in some). There are tons of them all around the Yucatan Peninsula. Some are completely exposed, some are walled in by cliffs, and some are covered entirely by caves. Calavera, Cristalino, Casa Cenote, Yaxmuul, Choo-Ha, and Escondido Cenote are some of the most popular cenotes in the region. If you’d rather do a tour, you can join a cenote tour for around 1,350 MXN.

15. Visit Sayulita

Located on the Pacific coast, Sayulita is a hip beach town with a lively community of expats and surfers. The town has a laid-back vibe owing to the sizable surfing and yoga community. It’s a great place to surf and there are plenty of yoga retreats available here. You can also take a jungle trek, go zip lining, ride ATVs along the coast, and simply soak up the sun on the beach. It’s the perfect place to chill for a few days. Canopy tours start at 1,800 MXN.

16. Explore Campeche

Campeche is located just south of Merida on the Yucatan. It’s home to UNESCO World Heritage colonial architecture, including fortified walls and over 2,000 historic buildings. Visit the Museo De La Arquitectura Maya for Mayan history and antiquities, see the Mayan ruins at Edzná (which is just 45 minutes away and sees very few tourists), and wander the old city wall to take in the view.

  For information on specific cities in Mexico, check out these guides:

• Cancún Travel Guide
• Mexico City Travel Guide
• Oaxaca Travel Guide

Mexico Travel Costs

Accommodation – In Mexico, hostels start at 250 MXN per night for a dorm bed, but average closer to 300 MXN. Private hostel rooms cost anything from 600-1,900 MXN per night. Prices are usually a bit lower in the low-season or shoulder-season. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are both common, as are self-catering facilities.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic plot for two people without electricity costs around 200 MXN per night.

For budget hotels, expect to pay 700 MXN for a basic room in a two-star hotel. These two-star rooms typically include an en-suite bathroom and free Wi-Fi, but not always air conditioning.

Airbnb is also an option in Mexico, with private rooms starting around 300 MXN but averaging much more (usually between 600-1,200 MXN). Entire homes and apartments average around 1,000-1,800 MXN although you can find them for as little as 600 MXN if you book early.

Food – You’ll find a lot of rice, beans, fruits, and veggies like tomatoes, corn, avocado, and peppers in Mexican cuisine, which is a mix of Mayan, Aztec, and Spanish traditions. Typical Mexican dishes include tacos, mole (a sauce with lots of ingredients, often including chocolate), salsa, enchiladas, tamales (stuffed corn pockets), pozole (hominy stew topped with onion, avocado, and chili), and guacamole.

Street stalls and markets are the best way to go for authentic and inexpensive food. Tacos, quesadilla, sopas, tortas, and other street foods are generally 15-45 MXN. Sometimes, you’ll find tacos for as cheap as 10 MXN. In Mexico, street food is the best — and most affordable — option.

A meal at a local Mexican restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 150 MXN. Look for the ones filled with locals as that is generally a sign that the food is really good. Expect to pay around 300 MXN for a multi-course meal in a mid-range restaurant.

A beer is about 20 MXN in the street but double that at a restaurant, while a cocktail shouldn’t cost more than 80 MXN in most places. A combo meal at McDonald’s costs around 120 MXN and a cappuccino costs around 50 MXN.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico. If you’re buying bottles of water, expect to pay 15 MXN (less if you buy in bulk but a more environmentally friendly (and cheaper) solution is to bring a portable water purifier ( LifeStraw makes a good one.

If you plan to cook your meals, expect to pay between 750 MXN per week for groceries including rice, vegetables, chicken, and beans.

Backpacking Mexico Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Mexico, expect to spend around 800 MXN per day. This budget gets you a hostel dorm, street food and self-cooked meals, public transportation, and a few attractions (such as museums and galleries) each day. If you plan on eating out more or drinking, you’ll need to add another 100 MXN per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 1,800 MXN per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out at restaurants serving cheap traditional cuisine for every meal, visit more attractions, enjoy a few drinks, and take the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,600 MXN or more per day, you can stay at a hotel, eat out for all your meals, enjoy plenty of drinks, take taxis everywhere or rent a car, and do some guided trips and tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MXN.

Mexico Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Mexico is incredibly budget-friendly. Unless you’re splurging on food or resorts, it’s really easy to visit on a budget. That said, it never hurts to save more money! Here are some ways to save in Mexico:

• Shop at the markets for food – Mexico’s markets are a great place to eat inexpensively and stock up on food for day trips. Most towns have a local market selling fresh fruits, veggies, and other goods for cheap.
• Eat street food – Street food is the best food in the country — and the cheapest. Stick to street stalls to save money and enjoy the country’s best eats.
• Take a free walking tour – Many cities have free walking tours that give you a solid introduction to the main sights. Both Mexico City and Oaxaca have excellent free tours — just be sure to tip your guide!
• Travel off-season – By traveling between late April and early December, you can pick up bargain accommodation, food and travel rates as this is low season.
• Venture inland – Mexico’s coasts are the most famous, most touristy parts of the country, but the interior has an amazing amount to offer. Prices are cheaper, and you’ll be more likely to meet some locals if you head away from the coast.
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals and connect with people who can share their insider tips and advice. Just make sure to send your requests early.
• Embrace “comida corrida” – This hearty mid-day meal option is usually available between 2pm-4pm and is often quite affordable. It’s a set menu, but it’s much cheaper than most lunch or dinner options. If you plan on eating out on a budget, aim for places that offer comida corrida.
• Drink less – Alcohol is cheap in Mexico, but it’s definitely more expensive at bars and clubs. Try to buy your alcohol from a local store instead of drinking at the bar if you’re on a budget.
• Skip the taxis – Taxis are overpriced and not always safe. Skip them. If you do need a taxi, don’t just hail one on the street. Head into a nearby hotel/hostel and ask them to call one for you. Only get in taxis that use a meter.
• Being a water filter – Since the tap water here isn’t safe to drink and single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water bottle with a built-in filter. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Mexico

Hostels are plentiful in most of Mexico’s cities. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Mexico:

• Suites DF Hostel (Mexico City)
• Mexico City Hostel (Mexico City)
• Hostel Ka’beh Cancún (Cancún)
• Mama’s Home (Tulum)
• Gran Hostal (Playa del Carmen)
• Casa Angel Youth Hostel (Oaxaca)

How to Get Around Mexico

Public transportation – Public buses (also known as camiones ) are the most common way to get around in cities and towns (and to nearby villages). These buses are also the cheapest, costing no more than a few pesos per journey. In some cities, smaller microbuses have replaced the older buses, but the cost is still the same.

Mexico City and Guadalajara have subway systems. One-way tickets for the subway and the bus system are around 5 MXN. In Mexico City, you’ll have to buy a rechargeable Metro Card at any of the Metro stations for 15 MXN, and you can use the card for the Metro, Metrobús, Light Rail, Ecobici, Trolleybus, RTP buses, and on Cablebús.

Bus – Most of Mexico is served by buses. On longer journeys, make sure to take an express bus (called a “directo”) if you can as they are much faster and stop less. A bus from Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara (5.5 hours) costs around 585 MXN. A bus from Cancún to Mexico City (27 hours) costs around 1,800 MXN. A bus from Puebla to Mexico City (2 hours) costs around 200 MXN.

Some of the biggest and most reliable bus companies include:

• Primera Plus
• Estrella de Oro
• Omnibuses de Mexico
• ETN (Enlaces Terrestres Nacionales)

Most cities have a central bus terminal from where all long-distance buses depart. You can show up to buy your ticket, or research routes and ticket prices via each company’s website.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – There are virtually no passenger train services remaining in Mexico. For long-distance travel, you’ll need to fly or take the bus.

Flying – For long journeys, consider flying. The route from Cancún to Mexico City by bus takes 27 hours and costs around 1,800 MXN but a flight starts around 470 MXN and only takes two hours. A one-way fare from Mexico City to Guadalajara is about 525 MXN. Even a four-hour flight from coast to coast from Cancún to Puerto Vallarta is just 1,200 MXN one-way.

Aeroméxico is the biggest airline in Mexico, but low-cost carriers are becoming more popular. These include:

• VivaAerobus

Car rentals – Car rentals are surprisingly affordable in Mexico. You can find week-long rentals for around 3,000 MXN. Renters must be 21 years of age and have had their license for at least two years. Some companies require renters to be over 25 and it’s best to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). Avoid driving at night, when crimes against drivers are more likely to occur. Also, don’t leave any valuables in your vehicle overnight as break-ins can occur.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Mexico

Summer (June to October) is the rainy season in Mexico, but this is mostly just in the center of the country. You can expect it to rain each day heavily, but the downpour is usually short. It hardly ever rains in the northern part of the country, and humidity is thick in the south and along the coastal areas. Temperatures during this time hover somewhere between 26-32°C (79-90°F).

September to the middle of October is hurricane season and is not a good time to visit.

December to the end of April (winter) is the busiest tourist season as temperatures are hot, but the coastal areas provide plenty of relief for vacationers. This is the best time to visit if you’re looking to take advantage of Mexico’s tropical environment. It’s the dry season, so you’ll experience very little rain. You can expect big crowds as people flock to the resort areas around Cancún and Puerto Vallarta.

The average daily temperature during this time is 28°C (82°F). But if you’re in the mountains, pack lots of layers! It can get frigid, especially in the evenings.

How to Stay Safe in Mexico

The media (especially the American media) likes to paint Mexico as a dangerous place to visit but the reality is far more complex. While petty theft is very common in Mexico, most of the serious conflicts occur between the authorities and Mexican drug cartels. The people who tend to be involved in major incidents are usually doing drugs or taking part in sex tourism. Avoid those, and you’ll drastically increase your chances of staying safe.

Moreover, where you are greatly influences how safe you are. Yucatan and Oaxaca are incredibly safe states to visit while states near the US border are less so and more likely to experience violence and crime.

Officials looking for bribes are pretty common in Quintana Roo, as is drug-related violence due to tourists looking for drugs there. States near the southern border can also be sketchy and it’s wiser to keep an eye out on your stuff there though violent crime is pretty uncommon.

So don’t believe the media that “Mexico is unsafe.” Mexico is like any big country – some parts are safe, and some parts aren’t. Use some common sense when you travel: don’t flash your money, avoid wearing expensive watches or jewelry, don’t walk along drunk at night, make copies of your passport and official documents, and tell people where you are regularly.

Another important safety tip to keep in mind is about the water. While Mexico’s water purification and treatment systems have improved, it still is not safe to drink ordinary tap water when visiting. Luckily, bottled water is available everywhere. Bringing water filter like LifeStraw is advised as it has a built-in filter so your water is always clean and safe.

Keep an eye out for common scams against tourists , such as fake ATMs, taxis that don’t use a meter, and questionable tour operators.

The emergency services number in Mexico is 911. However, if that doesn’t work (since it isn’t in use in every region of Mexico), try 066.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Mexico Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Mexico Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Mexico and continue planning your trip:

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

Is Tulum Safe?

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Mexico Travel Guide

If you’re looking for things to do while planning your trip to Mexico, we’ve got you covered! 

Mexico is the home of tacos, tequila, sombreros and Aztecs. Not only that, it also offers an amazing mix of Mesoamerican cultures, contemporary arts and Spanish traditions. There’s a lot more that to discover in this country beyond the typical stereotypes.

Mexico Travel Guide Contents

Important Info    |    Best Time to Visit    |    Things to Do    |    What to Eat    |    Typical Budget

Travel Tips    |    What to Pack    |    Mexico Articles    |    Book Now

Important Information about Mexico

Mexico at a Glance:  From cactus-strewn deserts and stunning beaches, to Baja California’s blue coastline and Maya villages, Mexico has a lot to offer! You’ll also find here, giant pyramids, colonial churches, and delicious food.

Currency in Mexico:  Mexican Peso | 2018 Conversion Rate: 100 MXN = $5.34 USD

Tipping in Mexico:  In restaurants, it is customary to tip at least 10 to 20% of the total bill. In hotels, tip your porter around 10 to 20 pesos per bag. Tipping the taxi driver is not really necessary.

 Language & Helpful Phrases:  Mexican 

Hello =  Hola

Thank you =  Gracias

Beer =  Cerveza

Delicious =  Delicioso

Bathroom =   Baño

How much? =  ¿Cuánto cuesta?

Too expensive  = Muy caro

Don’t want =  No quiero

Religion and Culture:  As much as 82% of Mexicans consider themselves to be Catholic while others incorporate themselves to the pre-Hispanic Mayan elements. The rest are of Christian denominations, Jews, Muslims and Buddhists.

Mexicans value family ties. They love to host parties and make every visitor feel comfortable.

Transportation around Mexico:  The most convenient option on traveling from one place to another is via air. For long distance transportation, buses are mostly preferred. Taxis are also very common in Mexico. However, most people will recommend you to take the metro lines.

Best Time To Visit Mexico

For an in-depth guide on the regional seasons, weather patterns and other factors, check out our complete guide to the best time to visit Mexico . We’ve also listed out some of the basics below to give you a general idea.

Climate in Mexico

The climate differs depending on the place’s topography. However, the climate in this country is either dry or rainy season.

Dry season:  November to May

Rainy season:  June to October

Peak season for tourists   is around December to April when the rain is very minimal. It can get crowded during this time and prices are higher. Especially during American spring break time, mid-March to mid-April.

Times to avoid traveling in Mexico

Avoid traveling from June to October. This is when the rainfall is heaviest.

Find out more in our article: Best Time to Visit Mexico: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Major Festivals in Mexico

Son Jarocho Music Festival, early February: A lot of people go to Tlacotalpan to celebrate Candelaria which features an image of the Virgin floating down the river.

Festival de Mexico,  mid-March: This is a music and Mexican themed food festival.

Festival Internacional Cervantino,  October: The Festival Internacional Cervantino is one of the arts extravaganzas in Latin America.

Day of the Dead,  November 1-2: Instead of mourning, the Mexicans celebrate death during this time. Very popular in the city of Oaxaca .

Top Things to Do in Mexico

Trek sierra norte mountains.

If you love hiking more than going to beaches, Mexico’s Sierra Norte Mountains is a must visit. It’s the best ways to experience the “Pueblos Manucommunandos”. Hire a local guide and have a fantastic time.

Cheer on Lucha Libre wrestlers

In Mexico, Lucha Libre is bigger than the American WWE version, it’s a cultural obsession. Grab a few beers and prepare to be entertained. Here’s an article to help you DIY if you don’t want to join a tour group.

Take a Mexican Cooking Class

Every foodie knows that Mexico is one of the best places to be. One of the must do’s when in this city is to take a cooking class. Each region has its own flavor and style. We opted to take a cooking class in Oaxaca , since this place is known to have the best foods in Mexico.

Swim in a Cenote (or two!)

Throughout the Yucatán Peninsula there are thousands of natural freshwater sinkholes known as cenotes . We put together an entire article that breaks down the details of all the  best cenotes in Mexico  by area so you can decide which ones to visit and what to expect.

Explore ancient ruins

Mexico has a lot of ancient archeological ruins to amaze you. Each one varies in popularity and size. Some of the must visits are Uxmal, Chichen Itza, Teotihuacan, Palenque and Mitla.

Best Food to Eat in Mexico

There is so much more to traditional Mexican cuisine than just tacos and burritos. The number of delicious foods to eat in Mexico makes it hard to know where to start.

To help you decide, we have listed here some of our favorites:

Chilaquiles:  This is a popular traditional breakfast food that has some fried corn tortillas and red or green salsa. Fried or scrambled eggs, cream and cheese are often added.

Tostadas:  When translated, tostadas mean toasted. It has fried corn tortillas topped with frijoles, cheese, ceviche, seafood, cooked meat, and cheese.

Elote:  This make look like a simple corn on cob but lime, butter, chilli powder, salt, cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise are added.

Tacos al pastor:  This is one of the popular taco varieties that originated from the 1920s to 1930s. It is one of the must try dishes when in Mexico.

Guacamole:  As one of the most popular dishes in Mexico, Guacamole boasts of a traditional sauce that originates from the time of the Aztecs.

Pozole:  This is a pre-Hispanic soup that was once used in ritual sacrifices. Now, it has pork, chicken, and vegetarian versions.

Psst! We created an entire article about the food in Mexico , broken down by region, to help you sort out exactly what it is you should be tasting on your travels!

Typical Travel Budget for Mexico

Mexico is an affordable place to visit. However, Yucatan’s location and popularity makes it a bit more expensive than other parts of this country.

Good to know:  US dollars are available for withdrawal from some ATMs and are widely accepted, especially in the Yucatan. However, it is better to have your money converted to Mexican Pesos or get them out of the ATM since the conversion rate is lower.

How Much to Budget in Mexico Per Day

Budget traveler:  If you are on a tight budget and watch your spending closely, $30 – $40 could be a sufficient budget.

Mid-range traveler:  If you want to have a few splurges and stay in nicer accommodation, plan to budget $40 – $80 per day.

Dorm bed = $4-$17

Budget room = $30-$40

Mid-range = $100-$200

Luxury hotel = $200+

Street food = $0.5-$2

Mid-range restaurant = $5-$8

Local beer = $1-$2

Horseback riding in Chiapas = $10

National Art Museum = $3

Chapultepec Castle = $3.25

Frida Kahlo House = $10.80

Ecobici Bikes = $5.29

Taxis = $1-$2

Subway or Metrobus = $0.25

Nice buses (6 hours) = $15-$30

Responsible Travel Tips in Mexico

We are passionate about sharing tips anyone can use to  travel more responsibly . Here are some easy ways you can travel better in Mexico.

1. Don’t litter

Try carrying your very own shopping bag to avoid contributing plastic.

2. Reduce energy consumption

Turn off the lights when not in use. And that goes for the A/C too!

3. Always ask before taking photos

If you want to take a photo of the locals, always ask. If they say no, respect their wishes.

4. Support the local economy

Eat at local restaurants and buy from locally made souvenirs. Simply enjoy the place’s local culture!

What to Pack for Mexico

It is much easier to travel around when you have a lighter luggage. Always pack light. This will save you a lot of hassle.

Here are some Mexico-specific items we’d recommend packing:

bug balm  (solids are the way to go)

reef safe sunscreen

insulated water bottle (we love our Hydro Flasks )

medications (like ibuprofen, imodium, dramamine or pepto-bismol)

reusable straw &  reusable bag  ( say no to single-use plastic! )

loose, lightweight clothes & layers

quick dry towel

rain jacket (it can rain during any season, so you’ll want to be prepared!)

Chaco sandals (we’d recommend these instead of hiking boots as they are less bulky and are good for walking through water)

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!?

Mexico Articles

Mexico has quickly made it’s way near the top of our favorite countries to visit. There are so many things to do in Mexico. You can visit ancient ruins, hike through the mountains, dance the night away, stroll through colorful colonial cities, and try delicious Mexican food… OMG the FOOD! We know we will travel back to Mexico soon.

25 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico

The Mexican state of Oaxaca is full of stunning architecture, agave plants and some of the most delicious food (and mezcal!) in the country. As you plan your trip to this colorful Mexican destination, we’re breaking out the best things to do in Oaxaca City and beyond.

25 Adventurous Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula has an incredibly rich history and is blessed with more than just beaches. In this article, we’ve put together a list of the top things to do in the Yucatan, including everything you need to help you plan your trip.

31 Fun Things to do in Playa del Carmen

Whatever your reason for visiting, there are so many fun things to do in Playa del Carmen and the surrounding area that are sure to keep you busy and feed your adventurous spirit. We’re going over our top picks, plus all the information you need to help plan your trip...

Mexican Food Tours Review: Mexico City’s Best Foodie Experience

Mexican food is one of the most popular cuisines in the world, and there’s no better place to try it than in Mexico City. To sample all sorts of Mexican dishes, we took a food tour where we stopped in famous local hotspots as well as hole-in-the-wall shops. We tried...

El Chiflon Waterfall: Ultimate Guide + How to Get There

The El Chiflon waterfalls are stunning and well worth the day trip from San Cristobal if you are traveling in Chiapas, Mexico. We put together this ultimate guide to El Chiflon Chiapas with everything you need to know including exactly how to get there without a tour and how much...

Lucha Libre in Mexico City: How to Go Without a Tour

Witnessing a theatrical Lucha Libre wrestling match at Arena Mexico is a fun way to experience the cultural phenomenon. In this guide we’ll give you the full scoop on how to see Lucha Libre in Mexico City without a tour.

35 Incredible Things to Do in Mexico (that aren’t beaches!)

There are so many things to do in Mexico that are not beaches or all-inclusive resorts. Spend a couple weeks in Mexico, get off the beaten path and dig deeper than Señor Frogs, we’re here to introduce you to some amazing things to do. Hint: Not even one of them...

Hiking in Sierra Norte Oaxaca: Visiting the Pueblos Mancomunados

Hiking to the Pueblos Mancomunados in Sierra Norte, Oaxaca, Mexico is a unique experience to see a different side of Mexico most travelers don’t get to see. The trek involves visiting the indigenous villages and an overnight stay in a cozy cabin in the mountains. This guide walks you through...

20 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Bacalar, Mexico

With shockingly blue waters and lots of fun things to do, Bacalar Lagoon is well worth a spot on your Yucatan itinerary. In this guide to Bacalar, Mexico, we’re sharing all sorts of tips, where to eat, what tours to take & what you should absolutely NOT do.

Renting a Car in Mexico: Ultimate Guide + Tips

In this guide, we go over all the details of renting a car in Mexico—from the cost of insurance to money-saving tips—so you know exactly what to expect and only need to worry about having the best, stress-free experience on the road.

Best Time to Visit Mexico: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Thanks to its varied yet mild overall climate, there is no absolute best time to visit Mexico — it’s always a good time to go! However, there are still some variables you’ll want to keep in mind depending on where you plan to visit and what you want to do.

Cenote Azul, Playa del Carmen: ULTIMATE Guide + Tips

An open air swimming hole near Playa del Carmen, Mexico, Cenote Azul is a popular destination for locals and travelers alike. We put together this guide for what to expect when visiting Cenote Azul from our personal experience.

Cancun to Holbox: How to Get There + Tips

If you’re visiting the Yucatan Peninsula and you enjoy getting off the beaten path, there’s an excellent chance Isla Holbox is on your radar. Reaching the blissful island takes some effort and planning, so we created this guide detailing how to travel from Cancun to Holbox.

Isla Holbox: 27 Fun Things to Do on Mexico’s Island Oasis

Isla Holbox may just be Mexico’s best kept secret. With pristine beaches, a laid back vibe and just enough fun things to do, the island of Holbox is hard not to love. Before you pack your swimsuit, we’re sharing some essential things to know about Isla Holbox as well as...

Sian Ka’an Bio Reserve: How to Visit Without a Tour

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is teeming with wildlife, and makes for an unforgettable day trip adventure. The diverse jungle ecosystem reserve offers one of the most unique experiences in the region. Here's everything you need to know on how to visit Sian Ka'an without a tour.

ADO Bus Service: The BEST Way to Get Around Mexico

The ADO bus service is one of the cheapest and most convenient ways for getting around Mexico. In this detailed guide, we give you the exact steps for riding with ADO Mexico including how to book and what to expect.

Cancun to Playa del Carmen: How to Get There + Tips

Getting from Cancun to Playa del Carmen requires road travel and involves some planning and logistics. There are several options to get there, so we’ve put together this guide with our suggestions.

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.

17 Delicious Foods in Mexico You Must-Try

There is so much more to traditional Mexican cuisine than just tacos and burritos. In this article, we’re taking you through the basics of Mexican cuisine; staple ingredients, must-try dishes and of course where to find the best food in Mexico.

25 Exciting Things to Do in Mexico City

This city completely exceeded our expectations and for good reason; there are actually tons of really exciting things to do in Mexico City! We’ve rounded up the top adventures, sights to see and culinary experiences so you can plan your time in CDMX according to what you want to do...

Perfect 3-Day Mexico City Itinerary

If you're planning a trip to Mexico City, we've got a perfect 3-day trip planned for you. This Mexico City itinerary is packed with information on where to eat, what major sights to see and off the beaten path ideas!

Cenotes in Mexico: 20 Hidden Gems & Must-Visit Spots

In this article we’re giving you the details for all the best cenotes in Mexico, organized by area so you can decide which ones to visit and what to expect. Because this natural phenomenon is so common here, you won’t want to miss the chance to explore one (or more!)...

7 Adventurous Things to Do in Chiapas, Mexico

With endless outdoor adventures and a rich cultural heritage, Chiapas is a place in Mexico that we consider a hidden gem among tourists. After visiting this unique corner of Mexico, we put together a list of the best things to do in Chiapas. In this article, you’ll find all sorts...

13 Fun Things to Do in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico

This laid back mountain town in southern Mexico has a unique draw that often keeps travelers longer than expected. Stroll the colorful streets and peak into a few popular shops and cafes and it’s easy to see why. We have a list of the top things to do in San...

17 Best Airbnbs in Mexico for Every Type of Traveler

If your planning a trip south of the border, you’ll want to check out this highly curated list of the best Airbnbs in Mexico. We’re sharing our favorite stays to meet every need — from budget-friendly, to the most unique accommodation, to some seriously incredible properties!

15 Fun Things to Do in Mérida, Mexico

Mérida is often overlooked by tourists who flock to nearby Cancun and Tulum, meaning this exciting city has fewer crowds and offers a more authentic glimpse into the “real Mexico”. We’re sharing the top things to do in Mérida as well as where to eat and where to stay in...

Experiencing a Temazcal Ceremony in Mexico

We did little to no research before signing up for our first Temazcal ceremony, so what happened next was a big surprise. This ancient practice is essentially Mexico’s version of a “sweat lodge” with a few extra body cleansing rituals and interesting massages.

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Mexico Travel Blogs

These are all of my travel blogs about mexico. .

From the paradise charm of Isla Holbox, to Bacalar’s magical lagoon, the Yucatan’s cenotes and Cancun’s resorts, find out the best places to travel to in my Mexico travel blogs and travel guides.

Happy exploring!

17 Things To Do In Tulum At Night

From all-night full moon parties and live music sessions, to mezcal cocktails in jungle bars and fine-dining, there are lots of things to do in Tulum at night.

The ultimate 5-day cancun itinerary.

From exploring ancient ruins and shopping for souvenirs, to snorkelling and island hopping, this 5-day Cancun itinerary has it all!

17 best breakfast and brunch restaurants in tulum, mexico.

From healthy bowls of fresh fruit to traditional Mexican favourites, these are the best breakfast restaurants in Tulum, Mexico.

Where to stay in oaxaca, mexico.

From the gorgeous Dreams and the authentic Quinta Real Oaxaca, to the stylish Zoa Hotel, find out where to stay in Oaxaca, Mexico.

The best beach towns in mexico.

From cool Pacific surf towns and sleepy fishing villages, to luxurious Caribbean resorts, these are the best beach towns in Mexico.

Mexico Travel Guide

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

Best time to visit Mexico

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

How to Travel Safe

How to travel cheap.

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

Why is Mexico worth visiting?

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

Is Mexico cheap to visit?

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

Can I drink tap water in Mexico?

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

Do I need a visa for traveling in Mexico?

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

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

What language do they speak in Mexico?

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

Do I need travel insurance for Mexico?

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

Is Mexico safe?

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

What power plug type does Mexico have?

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

Why do people love Mexico?

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

Travel to Mexico 

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

How to plan your trip to Mexico

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coastlines and beaches in Mexico

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

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

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

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

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

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

Food, culture and religion in Mexico

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

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

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

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

Why you should travel to Mexico

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

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

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

Safety and travel advice in Mexico

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

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

Learn more about travel safety .

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

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

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

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

Find the best travel insurances .

Travel Mexico Guide

Welcome to THE BEST Mexico Travel Blog!

Your Complete Guide to Traveling to Mexico and planning your perfect Mexican vacation.

Discover the best Mexico travel tips, insider guides, and helpful information right here!

Are you planning a trip to Mexico and looking for things to do, wondering where to stay, or what to eat and drink? You came to the right place!

The planning process can seem overwhelming, but Mexico is one of the easiest countries I have ever traveled to. I have visited Mexico countless times and now it is my turn to help you to have an unforgettable vacation!

Here you have a friendly Mexico Travel Guide to plan the best trip ever with the top places to go , things to do , best tours & day trips, the most beautiful beaches, cenotes, and Mayan ruins, food to eat (and cocktails to drink), and the best places to stay in Mexico !

Mexico is a wonderful and unique destination. It’s the reason so many travelers keep coming back again and again!

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO MEXICO

Mexico is the perfect combination of beautiful towns, white sandy beaches, delicious food, and amazing natural wonders. Besides, the weather is great almost all year round, and it’s one of the cheapest countries in North America!

On the blog menu, you will find all the info you need about Mexico, but here you have a shortcut to start planning your trip right now :

• Step-by-step information on how to plan your trip to Mexico with lots of insider tips.
• When is the best time to visit Mexico?
• Best Places to visit in Mexico, so helpful as travel inspiration.

I’m Sara & I’m in love with Mexico!

My goal with this Mexico travel blog is to help you discover the beauty of the country with the best Mexico travel tips, insider guides, and helpful information to make sure you love Mexico as much as I do.

If you want to know more about me, read my about page here .

Looking for a specific destination in Mexico?

You’ll find those here, including Cancun travel guide , Tulum travel guide , Riviera Maya blogs, Los Cabos travel guide , Puerto Vallarta blogs, and more!

most popular mexico destinations

LAST mexico BLOG POSTS

Flamingos in Mexico: Best Spots & Flamingo Season (2024 Guide)

20 Unique Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico (2024)

Best Coffee in Tulum: 17 Coffee Shops You Should Try in 2024

Mexican Breakfast Potatoes Recipe: A Must-Try Dish in Mexico

10 Best La Paz Whale Shark Tours in 2024 (Highest Rated + Insider Tips!)

Is Los Cabos Safe to Travel? Everything You Need to Know

Privacy overview.

12 BEST Boutique Hotels in Cancun, Mexico

From Zona Hotelera’s beachfront hotels to the sprawling resorts of Isla Mujeres, these are the best boutique hotels in Cancun!

Where to stay in cancun, mexico.

Deciding where to stay in Cancun is so important for that holiday of a lifetime. To make life easier, here are the best hotels in Cancun!

Diving the musa cancun underwater museum.

Are you visiting the Cancun Underwater Museum? Then check out my guide to snorkelling & diving MUSA, the unique underwater museum in Mexico!

Cancun travel guide: what to do in cancun, mexico.

Looking at what to do in Cancun, Mexico? From visiting Chichen Itza to exploring Tulum, check out my Cancun travel guide packed full of things to do!

Diving dos ojos, mexico.

Exploring the underwater world of Dos Ojos, one of the most popular cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula, is a must-do on any trip to Mexico.

Diving cenote angelita, mexico.

I knew Cenote Angelita was a dive site like no other, truly a once in a life time experience, but I never expected it to be anything like this.

Oaxaca; a city famous for food.

Let’s get a little taste of Oaxaca, a city that’s famous for food. From eating tacos to deep fried crickets & live maggots. Yep, we went there!

Exploring the pyramids of teotihuacan, mexico.

It’s stunning to think a site such as Teotihuacan is only an hour outside of Mexico City, and these ancient pyramids are arguably the best in all of Mexico.

The magic of mexico city.

Does Mexico City have a bad reputation? We experienced just a small snippet of the city, and we discovered it is a city full of surprises. This is what Mexico City is really like.

The Ultimate Backpacking Mexico Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: February 6, 2024

Wondering where to go in Mexico and need a Mexico Itinerary? In this post, I’m sharing with you my Mexico backpacking route and fun facts about Mexico backpacking. I’ve lived and traveled extensively in Mexico and although all of the information in this post is great for anyone traveling or backpacking in Mexico , it does contain a lot of information specifically for Solo female travel Mexico.

So, if you are planning a trip to Mexico here on my blog you are going to find everything you need to backpack Mexico .

Here are some epic Mexican quotes to get you excited about your trip.

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

Getting Around Mexico

Traveling around Mexico is actually pretty easy. As there isn’t a cross-country train service the two options are, bus or plane . The buses in Mexico are pretty cheap, very reliable, and easy to use. But it is a large country and so the journeys can be long. If you are pushed for time I recommend making some of the longer journeys by plane rather than by bus. I’ve made recommendations below, but just take a look at the map above and you can see the distances.

To help you decide where to go in Mexico, on the 4 week Mexico Itinerary I’ve tried to add in some stops between places so you could quite easily do this whole route by bus if you wanted to. That said you might prefer the comfort of flying. Flights are generally reasonable, so long as you book in advance. 

I have extensive travel guides detailing the best ways to travel and fun facts about Mexico:

The Best Way To Get From Cancun Airport To Tulum

How to get from Cancun airport to Playa Del Carmen

How To Get From Playa del Carmen To Tulum

How To Get To Cozumel – Cancun To Cozumel

How to get from Tikal in Guatemala to Tulum in Mexico

How To Get To Isla Holbox Mexico

How to Get to Sayulita

Quick Tip : I highly recommend booking all of your Mexico transportation with GottoGo . You can search for buses, shuttles, ferries, and Flights on their website. What I love most about them is their customer service. I know these guys personally from my time living in Guatemala and they look after their customers. If anything happens and you get delayed and miss your bus, you can just call them and they are always there to help. If you book through them you will pay a little more than if you book in person at the bus station. But it’s worth it for the ease and security. Click here to search for transportation in Mexico.

The Best Backpack Route Mexico

Ok so here it is, what you have all been waiting for my Mexico travel route to help you figure out where to go in Mexico.

As most people fly into Mexico City I’m going to start there. But you could also do this in reverse and fly into Cancun airport. Likewise, if you are traveling overland you can either cross the border from Belize up to Chetumal in Mexico. If you do this then I’d start in Bacalar and then work your way around Yucatan before flying from Cancun to Chiapas, then continue the route from there. Or if you cross the border from Guatemala then you will arrive at San Cristobal de las Casas first. From there you can pick up the route and go either way. 

• Mexico City (CDMX)
• Guadalajara
• Sayulita / Nuevo Vallarta / Riviera Nayarit
• Puerto Vallarta
• San Cristobal de las Casas
• Chichen Itza
• Isla Holbox
• Playa del Carmen
• Isla Mujeres

Yes, there are areas I’ve skipped, but you can easily add them to your Mexico backpacking itinerary if you have more time. For some recommendations of the best places to visit in Mexico check out this blog post . The same goes for removing things if you have less time. This Mexico backpacking route is suitable for solo female travelers , I’m not advising you to go anywhere unsafe.

This Mexico travel route starts in Mexico City and ends in Cancun and I have it marked in on the map above in this direction. In this, I have included the best tourist places in Mexico as well as some Mexico points of interest that you should try and visit if you can. Of course, it goes without saying that there are many incredible places to visit that aren’t considered tourist destinations in Mexico. So if at all possible try and leave some time in your schedule to get off the beaten track a little and explore some new places.

Quick Tip:  Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.  Best Mexico Tours :  Click here to check out the top Mexico tours Best Mexico Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in Mexico Best Mexico Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Mexico

Mexico Adventure Travel Musts

If you are looking for some adventure highlights in Mexico there are a few things you should think about doing. One of my favorite fun facts about Mexico that surprises people is the country is fantastic for Scuba Diving . There are so many incredible diving adventures to have in Mexico that I wrote a whole blog post about them that you can read here . 

Another must-do while backpacking in Mexico is exploring some of the ancient ruins. Everyone knows about the world wonder that is Chichen Itza . But the Riviera Maya is teeming with ruins. You have Tulum , Coba , Ek Balam , and some off-the-beaten-track ruins . Then you also have Aztec ruins just outside of Mexico City Teotihuacan to be explored. Check out this hot air balloon tour over Teotihuacan . You can even check out the Calakmul Ruins hidden deep in the jungle too.

Some other Mexico highlights include:

• Taking a cooking class or doing a food tour
• Swimming with Whale sharks
• Diving with Bull Sharks
• Swimming in Cenotes
• Go to a yoga retreat
• Visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere  

QUICK TIP: Book your tours, rental cars, and transfers through my local contacts I’ve been working with Living Dreams Mexico for years and they are who I send all my family and friends to when they visit the Riviera Maya. I really can recommend them enough for private tours and experiences. They have solid 5* reviews on Trip Advisor and Google from almost 4000 reviewers! You can view all their tours here. If you’re looking for private airport transfers and rental cars then Vanessa and Oliver from Turismo Channel are personal friends of mine and I can 100% recommend them to make an inquiry click here and complete the form . Someone will be in touch within 24 hours.

Where To Go In Mexico | Mexico Trip Itineraries

It’s really hard to give you a one-size-fits-all best places to visit in Mexico travel itinerary , but I’m going to try. Of course, the more time you have the more places you can explore. My advice would be if you have more time to stop off at some of the smaller pueblos in between the main ‘tourist’ cities and pueblos. Less is more in Mexico so don’t try and cram in too much. Instead, take your time to get to know a place by staying a little longer.

On this where to go in Mexico trip itinerary, I’ve included the most popular places people visit and linked to more detailed helpful guides if I have them. This is not only a backpack route Mexico but will also suit other types of travelers too as it includes all of the main tourist attractions you will not want to miss while in Mexico. PS read these travel tips for Mexico before you plan anything.

Recommended Mexican Tour Companies These are companies I 100% recommend booking activities within Mexico.   Where Sidewalks End – One of my favorite Mexican based. companies offering boutique travel experiences you won’t find anywhere else.  Turismo Channel – If you are traveling to Playa del Carmen then I recommend booking through my friend Vanessa at Turismo Channel. You can check out their tours by  clicking here  and us code  claire10off  for 10% off group toursYou can also  send her a WhatsApp message  quoting the code to receive the discount.

One Month in Mexico

If you have one month in Mexico, this is the route I would recommend you take time to see as much of Mexico as you can.

Mexico itinerary for 1 month:

Mexico City (3 nights) – 3 nights is the minimum I would personally recommend staying in Mexico City. If you can spare an extra day, then stay for 4. I wrote a full accommodation guide to help you decide where to stay in Mexico City. But wherever you stay, I use Uber to get pretty much everywhere as it is so cheap. Things I’d recommend are visiting Tenochtitlán and going to the Lucha Libre wrestling ! If you want, you can also figure out how to visit Las Grutas de Tolantango from here too!

Guanajuato (1 night) – From Mexico City take a bus to Guanajuato which is about a 6-hour bus ride, or a short flight away. Here you can enjoy the colonial architecture and soak up your first taste of a Mexican pueblo. To make the most of your time here I’d recommend doing this tour from Guanajuato City to San Miguel de Allende .

Guadalajara (1 night) – Take another flight or the bus is just over 3 hours to Guadalajara . I’d suggest exploring Guadalajara and then head down to Lake Chapala , this can also be done as a day trip easily if you don’t want to move around so much. T equila is also a short day trip if you have time. You can take the Tequila express train from Guadalajara and back in a day. 

Chapala (1 night) – From Guadalajara , you can easily take a bus, or rent a car and drive to Lake Chapala. Spend at least 1 day here, more if you can as there are other places around the lake to explore. I love neighboring Ajijic oh and try to visit the Thermal Spa. If you spend the night in Chapala I highly recommend staying in Villa 1927 Arthotel Boutique right on the lake.

Puerto Vallarta (2 nights) – Time to hit the beach! The flight here from Guadalajara / Chapala is 50 minutes and the bus is just under 6 hours, so it’s all going to depend on time. Puerto Vallarta is a popular Mexican coastal town, but not as ‘gringoed’ as the Riviera Maya . It’s also a super nice drive if you want to rent a car . If you drive on the northern road you can hit up Sayulita and anywhere else in Nayarit first. Or if you go on the southern road then go to PV first and head to Nayarit after.

Sayulita : From Puerto Vallarta, if you have time I would also strongly recommend paying a visit to Sayulita. You can read all about how to get to Sayulita here . There are so many things to do in Sayulita you can easily stay here a few days or weeks if you have the time. Number 1 thing to do of course is surfing ! Wondering where to stay in Sayulita , don’t there are many amazing properties, you will be spoilt for choice! You can book a surf trip in Mexico with Thermal

Oaxaca (2 nights) – You are going to need to fly this leg of the journey unless you don’t mind a 20-hour bus ride! But you can’t skip Oaxaca. If for nothing else, this is where you are going to be eating some of the best Mexican food . Plus Oaxaca city is beautiful and full of brightly colored colonial buildings. If you have some more time then head to the beach town of Puerto Escondido for some chilled beach and surf town. I’d strongly recommend trying to fit in at least 2 nights here if you can!

Veracruz (2 nights) – To get here by bus it’s likely to take 6 hours, or you can fly but as there are no direct flights it will take you just as long. Like most places on this list, you are going to want more than 2 days here, but if it’s all you have then it will do. In Veracruz, you will find mountains, volcanoes, Magic Towns , rivers, the ocean , forests, amazing waterfalls , archeological sites , and a lot of good seafood! I have so many friends from here and all they talk about is how amazing the food is!

San Cristobal de las Casas (2 nights) –  Oh how I love San Cris if it didn’t get so cold here during the winter and there was a beach close I’d move there in a flash! Ok so to travel here by bus from Veracruz will take about 8 hours. So if you need to save time then skip Veracruz and just come directly from Oaxaca. But whatever you do, don’t skip San Cris. There is a lot to do here and you could easily spend a week or more here hiking, chasing waterfalls , and shopping for textiles and precious gems at rock bottom prices. 

Palenque (1 night) –  I’ve added in a stop at Palenque to break up the long-ass bus journey from San Cris to Campeche (if you want to take the bus. If you are planning on flying, then just fly direct from Tuxtla airport (just outside San Cris) to Merida and skip Palenque and Campeche. If however, you are interested in learning more about Mayan Culture then I recommend visiting Palenque. It’s about a 7-hour bus ride, or you can fly direct on a small plane here. 

Campeche (1 night) – The bus ride from Palenque to Campeche takes just under 6 hours on a direct bus. Campeche is often forgotten about by visitors to Yucatan. Most people skip over it in favor of Merida. But if you can I’d recommend stopping here for at least a night. UNESCO named it as a model of a colonial baroque city planning. Not only is it a World Heritage Site because of its beautiful colonial architecture, but it also has 17 archaeological sites including Calakmul, which is the largest Mayan city that has been discovered.

If you like this Ultimate Mexico backpacking itinerary and fun facts about Mexico backpacking, save it in your  Stipple trip planner  where you will find destinations, things to do, and accommodation all in one place without juggling between several apps.

Merida (2 nights) – Merida is the capital of Yucatan and it is brimming with culture! It can get very hot in the summer months, so be sure to book accommodations with AC if you can. As well as exploring the city from here you can easily access Chichen Itza . So you could save time by skipping Valladolid and spending a night at Chichen Itza and just see Chichen as a day tour. Then you can head directly to Holbox , or to Playa del Carmen by bus.

Chichen Itza (1 night) – If you have the time I recommend spending the night at Chichen Itza to see the light show ! Then get up early the next morning and explore during the daylight before all of the tour buses turn up! Or if you really want to save time then you can fly to Chichen Itza with Fly Cozumel.

Valladolid (1 night) – This is a place you can skip if you need to make up time. But it’s a nice little pueblo that can help to break up the journey if you have time. Buses run directly here from Merida, and Colectivos run from Chichen Itza . Both are frequent and the journey is short. 

Isla Holbox (2 nights) – To get to Holbox from Merida or Valladolid is a direct bus to Chiquila and from there you will need to take a boat out to the Island. Click here for a full breakdown of how to get to Isla Holbox . Holbox is where I go on vacation. If I need a weekend away from work and need to go somewhere I can completely relax and get offline, I come to Holbox . Be warned you will not get hardly any signal here, and wifi is inconsistent at best. But it’s about as close to paradise as you can get. Want to do some activities while on the island? Take a read of my guide to Holbox here .

Playa del Carmen (2 nights) – Yes, I know I may be biased as I lived here for a few years. But once you arrive in the Riviera Maya, Playa really is the best place to base yourself. It’s cheaper and easier to navigate than Tulum and Cancun and you can walk pretty much everywhere. Plus it’s easy to take colectivos to Cancun , Puerto Morelos , Tulum , and even to Bacalar (although I’d recommend taking the bus). Plus it’s just a short ferry ride to Cozumel .  You can take a bus or colectivo direct from Chiquila to get here. There is so much to see and do 2 days can easily become 2 months… or in my case 3 years haha.

Tulum (1 night) – One night is enough to check out Tulum. Arrive early and visit the Tulum ruins then spend the rest of the day exploring Tulum , or just chill on the beach. If you can spare a few extra days head to Coba ruins and go diving in some Cenotes . If you have time I’d also highly recommend trying to do a tour of Sian Ka’an . It’s not cheap but so worth it! You can either take an ADO bus here from Playa or hop in a colectivo .

Bacalar (2 nights) – It’s going to take you the best part of a day to get here from Tulum , but it will be worth it for the view. Bacalar is beautiful and here you can chill for a couple of nights and reflect on the amazing time you have had exploring Mexico! You can take an ADO bus from Tulum , or a colectivo. Personally, I’d choose the bus for comfort unless you are on a very tight budget. 

Cancun / Isla Mujeres (1 night) – Time to start making your way back to the airport! It will take you most of the day to get from Bacalar to Cancun . You can either stay at a hotel close to the airport or if you have more time skip Cancun and stay in Isla Mujeres… This won’t work if you have a morning flight. but if you have an afternoon or evening flight I’d recommend it so you can check out one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!

Three Weeks in Mexico

Only have three weeks in Mexico? No problem. You won’t be able to see the whole of Mexico during this time, but with this itinerary, you can make the most of your 3 weeks in Mexico.

Mexico itinerary for 3 weeks

• Mexico City (3 nights)
• Guanajuato / Guadalajara/ Tequila (2 nights)
• Puebla (2 nights)
• Oaxaca (2 nights)
• San Cristobal de las Casas (2 nights)
• Merida (1 night)
• Valladolid / Chichen Itza (1 night)
• Holbox (2 nights)
• Tulum (1 night)
• Bacalar (2 nights)
• Playa del Carmen / Cozumel (3 nights)

Two Weeks in Mexico

Got two weeks in Mexico? Then use this Mexico itinerary to help you make the most of your short vacation. I’m not going to lie, 2 weeks in Mexico is nowhere near enough time, but you can see a few of the most popular places and get a feel of the Country. You will need to fly between some places if you want to make the most of your time. But in some places, you can catch a bus and it won’t take longer than half a day.

Mexico two week itinerary:

• Merida (2 nights)
• The Riviera Maya (3 nights)

Two Weeks in Yucatan

I’ve created this 2-week road trip itinerary for Yucatan as in reality 2 weeks in Mexico just isn’t a lot of time. Personally, I’d visit half as many places as I’ve added to this list. But if you do only have 2 weeks and want to fit in as much as you can, then this is what I would recommend doing. 

Yucatan 2 week itinerary:

• Holbox (3 nights)
•   Merida (1 night) 
• Campeche (1 night)
• Valladolid (2 nights) to visit Chichen Itza
• Bacalar (2 nights) – or 1 night in Mahuale and 1 in Bacalar
• Playa del Carmen (3 nights) or 2 nights and one night in Cozumel to go diving. Make sure you rent a car in Cozumel and do a lap of the Island!

A week in Mexico

1 week in Mexico is really not enough time. But if it’s all the time you have, then it’s all the time you have. You can make the most of your time by flying from place to place, otherwise, you will be wasting 3 days on a bus. I’d strongly recommend only packing hand luggage as the budget Mexican airlines like to charge a lot of money for baggage ! 

See my Ultimate Mexico packing list on Amazon !

Although you could easily spend 7 days in any one of these places If you want to cover as much ground as possible in your 7 days in Mexico then with this you will be able to visit 3 very different places in Mexico to give you a real feel for just how diverse and wonderful a country Mexico really is.

Backpack Mexico itinerary for 1 week:

• Mexico City (2 nights)
• Riviera Maya (2 nights)

On this Mexican itinerary, you will fly into Mexico City and then fly out of Cancun . If you are backpacking and coming up from Guatemala then I recommend taking a bus from Guatemala to San Cristobal and then heading to Oaxaca for a night or 2 before traveling to Cancun . 

I’ve not specified where you should visit in the Riviera Maya, because that really is up to you. Personally, I would choose Playa del Carmen and Tulum over Cancun . But then there is also Holbox , Isla Mujeres, and Cozumel to choose from. If you want to explore, choose Playa del Carmen as it’s pretty central. If you just want to crash on a beach for a few days, choose Holbox or Isla Mujeres.

The Best Hostels in Mexico

I’ve listed all of the best hostels in Mexico here on this page . However, I do also have more detailed accommodation guides for Mexico City , Cancun , Playa del Carmen , Cozumel , Holbox , and Tulum .

Other Important Things to Consider When Backpacking in Mexico

There are some other common questions people ask about when traveling to Mexico so I’ve tried to answer them as best I can here.

If you are wondering what to pack I have some great packing guides you can read:

The Ultimate Packing List For Mexico

Other than that there isn’t much you really need. Most countries can enter Mexico on a tourist ‘visa’ which is good for 180 days. After 180 days, you will need to leave the country. If you want to return you will need to stay away for at least 3 days before re-entering. If you enter overland then make sure you tell them you will be in Mexico for longer than a week and make sure you pay the fee for the full 1890 day visa. If you don’t they will only give you 7 days to transit. If you fly into Mexico the cost is covered as part of your ticket, so you don’t need to worry.

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

Mexico Travel Guide Planning

🧳 Any recommendations on what I should pack for Mexico?

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

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

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

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

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

For everything else I recommend either Viator  or GetYour Guide . 

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

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

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

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

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

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

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

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

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

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

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

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

🛅 Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

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

Solo Female Travel Mexico

Looking for solo travel Mexico information? I personally traveled to Mexico solo and had no issues at all. I’m not denying that there are some safety issues you need to take seriously, however, if you are planning a trip to Mexico alone I have a few guides you can read that will help you get prepared.

Is it safe to travel to Mexico alone? Absolutely! Do you need to be prepared? YES

Fun Facts About Mexico Backpacking: Final Thoughts

And that’s it! My where to go in Mexico ultimate Mexico backpacking route! I hope it has been of use to you as you prepare for backpacking in Mexico. Feel free to reach out if you have any specific questions that I don’t answer on this Mexico blog!

Tuesday 29th of March 2022

Thank you so much for the extremely insightful article! I do have question, would you recommend pre-booking all buses? :)

Moon Palace

Thursday 1st of July 2021

Mexico is wonderful, has a lot to know and gives a great cultural experience to the visitor who dares to travel alone. Besides, Mexicans are very kind and friendly people wherever you go and they will make you feel as if you were in your own country.

Claire Summers

Hi I’m Claire!

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

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

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

Puerto Vallarta Travel Blog: Our 2 Week Itinerary and Vacation Guide

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: March 31, 2022  - Last updated: January 17, 2023

Share with your friends!

We recently spent 2 weeks in the Puerto Vallarta area and I’m so excited to share with you where we stayed, what we did, where we ate and everything in between.

This post will be more like a travel blog style, where I document everything in chronological order with LOTS of photos. 

This vacation was the perfect mix of rest, relaxation and adventures.

I know not everyone may have the time to spend two weeks in Puerto Vallarta, but if you’re looking for some ideas about what to do or want to gauge how many days you need to visit, this post should help answer some of those questions. 

I’m laying out our entire Puerto Vallarta itinerary so you can copy it all, or take bits and pieces.

Watch my Puerto Vallarta travel vlog in action in my video about our 2-week trip to Puerto Vallarta.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

Puerto Vallarta Itinerary 

For this Mexico trip, we stayed in 3 different places. We started north and worked our way south:

• Grand Palladium Resort near Punta Mita (5 nights) – 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta.

• Unelma Bungalows in Bucerias (6 nights) – 25 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta.

• Rivera del Rio Boutique Hotel (5 nights) – in the Zona Romantica (old town) of Puerto Vallarta.

Why We Chose to Stay in 3 Different Spots

I liked staying in 3 places, because it gave us a taste of everything we wanted on this trip.

We got pampered and relaxed at the all inclusive resort and didn’t have to worry about planning or paying for anything. 

In Bucerias, we enjoyed the laid-back beach town life and the great access to day trips. 

In the romantic zone in Puerto Vallarta, the vibe was a little busier (in a good way) and offered a more lively atmosphere and new scenery. 

If you’ve never been to this part of Mexico, or have only explored the city, I highly encourage you to visit both Puerto Vallarta and its surrounding area.

Resorts, authentic towns, a variety of excursions and day trips, great food and hidden gem paradise beaches are all found around here. 

And while Puerto Vallarta is getting more popular, prices are still quite cheap. 

Here is our day by day itinerary for spending two weeks in the Puerto Vallarta area.

We found tons of hidden gem places and unique things to do on this trip.

Days 1 – 5: Grand Palladium Vallarta – All Inclusive Resort

We flew on Swoop Airlines from Edmonton to Puerto Vallarta for pretty cheap – read my full review here if you want more info!

I booked a private driver to take us to the Grand Palladium Vallarta resort, which cost $60 for a one hour ride. 

Puerto Vallarta Airport Arrival Tips

I do recommend arranging transportation in advance . Even though I’ve arrived at the Puerto Vallarta airport multiple times, it’s still quite overwhelming.

After you pick up your bags and head to the exit, you have to walk through a corridor of very pushy sales people who try to use tactics to draw you in, pretending they know where you are staying.

Don’t pay attention to these people.

When you do get passed the glass doors, it’s not a big area and gets very congested, so it’s nice to have your transportation waiting for you.

Here’s the company I booked with. 

You can also take the pedestrian bridge to the left across the highway. This is where the Uber drivers can pick you up.

Yes, Uber is available and reliable in Puerto Vallarta!

Arrival at the All Inclusive Resort

The plan for the first part of the trip was to relax and unwind at an all-inclusive resort.

Chris and I love to do our own thing when we travel, but it’s so nice to get into vacation mode for the first few days relaxing by the pool with no plans!

Over the course of the next few days we enjoyed exploring every inch of the resort and found so many beautiful viewpoints.

We would usually hit the pool by about noon and hang out until sunset!

When the sun would go down, we got cleaned up and then usually met some new friends for a pre-dinner drink at the lobby bar.

Each night we tried a new a la carte restaurant and then back to the theater/lobby area for nightly live music and entertainment. 

Where We Stayed – Grand Palladium Vallarta

We loved our stay at the Grand Palladium Vallarta and would 100% stay there again.

By today’s standards, it’s a ‘smaller’ resort with about 400 rooms.

But the property is beautifully lush with great villa-style rooms and excellent pool choices that it didn’t feel like a small resort. 

We spent most of our time at the adult-only infinity pool where we had great views of the ocean, and we watched whales from here every single day!

The staff at the resort are so kind and friendly.

We met many guests who have stayed here multiple times and mentioned that the exquisite service is one of the main reasons why they keep returning. 

The biggest and best surprise about this resort was how amazing the beach is here! The sand was so soft.

While the color wasn’t white, the texture of the sand reminded me of what you would find in the Riviera Maya.

The water was shallow, turquoise-clear and very swimmable. 

View the Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort & Spa here . 

Read more reviews on Tripadvisor . 

I also put together a video tour of the entire resort.

Days 6 – 12: Bucerias and Day Trips

Where we stayed .

Our first stop in Bucerias was checking in at Unelma Bungalows . We’ve stayed here before and couldn’t wait to stay another 6 days.

The property is in a perfect location – on Lázaro Cárdenas street in the heart of the ‘zona dorada’ or ‘golden zone.’

This is the arts district in Bucerias where you’ll find many expats and snowbirds who call this area home. 

Unelma Bungalows is a property with 4 suites (our favorite is the open air thatched-roof vill a), with a garden courtyard, pool and a private beach.

I love this place so much I almost hate to share it with others so I can keep it to myself 😉 

If you’re interested in staying here, I recommend booking as far ahead as you can, as many guests book their spot well in advance.

But if you don’t see availability, keep checking back often as you might be able to snag a cancellation. 

View Unelma Bungalows here . 

You can also watch my video , which provides a tour and overview of Bucerias, Mexico. 

Day 7 – Bucerias Day

First stop was breakfast at one of our favorite restaurants – the Red Apple .

They have a fantastic breakfast menu with both traditional Mexican food and classic western favorites. 

It’s upstairs, so the views are great and it’s also shady and breezy.

For the rest of the day, we strolled around centro (the downtown), the market and the beach to get reacquainted with everything since it had been 3 years since we last visited. 

I opted for a massage on the beach that afternoon .

400 pesos ($20 USD or $25 CAD) for a one hour massage on the beach. Lovely!

We also hit Karen’s on the beach for happy hour which is from 3 – 5 pm. This is another great spot that’s always a fun time! Coconut mojito is my favorite. 

At 6pm, we gathered some cold beverages and congregated for sunset. 

Sunsets in Bucerias are special since it’s located in the middle of the Banderas Bay.

You get unobstructed views from the miles of wide beach like nowhere else in the region. 

We wrapped up the day with dinner at one of our favorite restaurants in Bucerias: Tacos Lindas!

This is a no frills taco joint, but the food is delicious and cheap. We’re talking about 1 dollar per taco .

And you can bring your own beer or wine to enjoy with dinner. 

Day 8: Hot Springs Tour (highlight day)

This was one of the days I was most excited for on the trip. 

We booked a tour through Viator to check out the natural hot springs about 1.5 hours from Bucerias. 

The tour exceeded my expectations and is one of the best day trips from Puerto Vallarta (read more day trip ideas here ). 

Our guide picked us up in a jeep (there was only one other couple with us) and the first stop was 30 minutes away in the small town of San Juan de Abajo.

Here we stopped at a small market to pick out fresh fruit and vegetables for our lunch that day. 

Then we walked through town for a few minutes, enjoyed the sights, visited a tortilla factory and had some fresh coffee and a bathroom break. 

Then we continued into the countryside and arrived at the Aguas Termales Nuevo Ixtlan (hot springs) about an hour later).

At this point we were pretty deep into the Sierra Madre mountains, which was breathtaking in itself. 

There are 30 stone tubs that hold 2-4 people in which the natural hot springs water is piped into. Each group got to enjoy their own ‘tub’ for about 2 hours.

We chatted, soaked, and enjoyed fresh snacks and a BBQ lunch prepared by our hosts. 

After lunch, we headed back to Bucerias for a one hour massage on the beach (which was included in our tour package). 

This was an amazing experience, and I would do it over and over again.

It was about $100 per person, which is amazing value. You can read more tour details here . 

And I’ve got an entire video tour of the hot springs here !

We got back to our villa by about 4:30 pm and then ended up taking a sunset horseback ride on the beach! 

It was 500 pesos each for a fun 40 minute ride!

Dinner was at Mr. and Mrs. Fish Tacos – a really great spot in Centro Bucerias.

I had the fajitas and apparently the onion rings here are out of this world. Great service and wish we could have gone back on this trip!

Day 9: Beach walks, Markets, Nuevo Vallarta and Unique Dessert

Today was a nice day of random strolls all throughout town. One of the best things to do in Bucerias, in my opinion.

Best Local Breakfast

We started with breakfast at Cocina de Jorge.

This is a great spot for authentic Mexican breakfast and cafe de olla in Bucerias. Very cheap to eat here and the food is homemade and delicious. 

A Walk into Nuevo Vallarta

After shopping for a hat at the markets, we strolled through town admiring the gorgeous facades and home fronts and then decided to walk into Nuevo Vallarta on the new path (only about a 20 minute walk). 

From Nuevo, we walked back to Bucerias along the beach, stopping at a couple beach bars for cervezas with our feet in the sand.

Oye Henry’s had really cold beer and is right near the Royal Decameron resort.

Dinner at a Jazz Club

We enjoyed live jazz music with dinner at Encore, which is adjacent to where we were staying at Unelma Bungalows.

This is one of the reasons we love staying there – we can listen to the music from the comfort of our patio. 

I had the coconut shrimp with a mango sauce, and Chris had tortilla soup and tuna tartar. All was scrumptious. I thoroughly enjoyed my dessert though – Mexican coffee!

Complete with a fun display of lighting the tequila and Kahlua on fire . Yum!

The most interesting dessert I’ve ever tasted…

Since I was so hopped up on coffee, it was time to go seek out some dessert. We hadn’t enjoyed street vendor churros yet, so we started toward centro. 

BUT – we didn’t make it that far. 

As we strolled down the main street in the arts district (Lazaro Cardenas) we were curiously interrupted by a piercingly loud whistling sound.

Turns out, it’s a food vendor known as a camote or camotero cart .

A wood-fired broiler on wheels that steams sweet potatoes and bananas or plantains for hours – once too much steam builds up, it releases through the whistle. 

I had never heard about this type of food vendor, so we had to try some.

For 50 pesos I got a massive plate of sweet potatoes and bananas covered in sweetened condensed milk. 

Day 10: La Cruz Market Day

This was a Sunday which is market day in La Cruz at the marina. It’s one of the best markets in the entire region and is more like a festival atmosphere than a farmer’s market. 

We started with breakfast at Delicias Mexicanas – a fantastic find in a more residential area.

From the street entrance we walked through a corridor to a garden courtyard and watched them prepare our food in the outdoor kitchen.

The breakfast menu offered a great selection of both Mexican and American style breakfast, of which everything was 120 pesos, including coffee and orange juice. 

Getting to La Cruz

We took the bus from Bucerias to La Cruz for 10 pesos per person. After less than 15 minutes we arrived in the small town.

First we checked out the main plaza which is the smaller market, and then made our way to the massive market down by the marina. 

We loved visiting these markets because all the vendors were selling more locally made, higher quality products , including some unique items we hadn’t seen before.

The souvenir market in Bucerias is fun, but the ones in La Cruz are in their own league. 

If you’re in the Bucerias area, I recommend buying your souvenirs from the La Cruz markets, especially if you’re looking for something special to take home. 

After shopping we were ready for a sit down and a beverage. We found ourselves at the Green Tomato which had a live band who were phenomenal!

The music and dancing kept us there for several hours longer than planned. 

Found a Local Beach

We strolled through town to find Playa Manzanilla , where we were told all the locals hang out. This is definitely a hidden gem area not far from Bucerias. 

The beach was beautiful, with soft sand and shallow water with minimal waves, so it was perfect for all the kids who were there.

Since it was Sunday, it was extremely busy, so we didn’t stay long. I would love to come back on a weekday morning though. There are a few beach bars here with great prices, too. 

Open Air Drinks & Dinner

We got back to our villa just in tim e for another sunset walk on the beach before heading to La Negra for pre-dinner drinks .

La Negra is a really cool spot, it’s a restaurant with a classy nightclub vibe. Come here if you want a restaurant with a really great ambience and atmosphere in Bucerias.

Ask to sit upstairs, where its open air seating among the modern thatched roof decor.

They’ve got a great beer selection if you’re looking for something beyond the standard Pacifico and Modelo, and I ordered a yummy drink made with lime, tamarind and mezcal. 

We didn’t eat here because we wanted to have dinner at La Postal – one of our favorite restaurants in Bucerias.

They specialize in pizza, pasta and gelato – need I say more?

The open air, al fresco dining experience surrounded by lush greenery makes you feel like you’re dining in the secret garden. All I can say is just go! 

Day 11: Morning Margaritas and Rhythms of the Night!

The day started off back at the Red Apple for breakfast, where I had a big glass of their fresh squeezed green juice.

I call these my morning margaritas . 

The rest of the day we strolled around and did a lot of filming for my YouTube channel . Check out the Bucerias videos here ! 

We enjoyed some pool time and then got ready for one of the best evenings we had on this trip – the Rhythms of the Night show (that’s a link to my full review on the show). 

I had been wanting to do this for the last 3 trips to the Puerto Vallarta area and finally got to do it.  This is a dinner and entertainment experience. 

We took a one hour sunset catamaran cruise (which included free drinks) out to a private beach that was o nly lit by tiki torches and candles. 

We followed the candle light and sounds of the bongo drums toward the outdoor amphitheater to be seated for the show. 

I’ll let the photos do most of the explaining, but the only way I could describe this show would be a Las Vegas-style Cirque du Soleil with a Mexican flair . 

Following the show, we had a buffet dinner dinner on the beach, which was ok.

I loved the show, the dining atmosphere and exploring the island, so I didn’t mind that dinner was mediocre. 

Watch my full video review of Rhythms of the Night here .

Day 12: Crocodile Sanctuary and Arrival in Puerto Vallarta

This morning’s breakfast was one of our favorites in Bucerias – Los Tejabanes.

A quaint local spot, only a few tables and a few menu items. I tried Machaca for the first time, YUM.

It was seasoned, shredded pork mixed with peppers and onions and came with tortillas. This restaurant is also pet friendly! 

About 10 minutes down the highway toward Puerto Vallarta is the El Cora crocodile sanctuary.

This is a must-visit if you’re in Bucerias, Nuevo Vallarta or Puerto Vallarta.

This nonprofit organization focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating crocodiles who are getting pushed out of their natural habitats due to the massive resort development happening in this region.

It’s 250 pesos per person for a one hour tour and then you can spend as long as you want on the property.

They receive no government funding and are doing incredible work with hopes of helping these endangered species while also educating tourists about these beautiful but misunderstood animals.

We saw several crocodiles and even got to hold one. 

Watch my full video tour of the crocodile sanctuary here .

Days 12 – 17: Puerto Vallarta

Later that afternoon, we checked into our hotel in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone for the last leg of our trip. 

Where We Stayed in Puerto Vallarta – Rivera del Rio

I think we found the most romantic hotel in all of Puerto Vallarta!

We stayed at the Rivera del Rio, tucked away overlooking the river so it was nice and quiet with amazing views of the expensive homes over in the ‘Gringo Gulch’ neighborhood.

But still only a 5 – 10 minute walk to restaurants and the Malecon. 

This boutique hotel recently added (as of 2022) 11 new rooms to the original 8. Each room is whimsically decorated, and they’re all unique.

Our room was themed after the Zelda video game and had a gorgeous balcony view. 

The building was originally a residential mansion that’s since been converted to a boutique hotel, and kept all of the original and quirky charm.

If you’ve ever stayed in New Orleans’ French Quarter, you’ll know what I mean. 

The hotel has two pools, one of them being a heated infinity rooftop pool , complete with a bar that serves fantastic spicy mango margaritas.

There’s also a nice jacuzzi hot tub on site, offering great evening views. 

View Rivera del Rio here .

Read more reviews on Tripadvisor here . 

After checking in, getting settled and a happy hour beverage at the rooftop pool bar, we headed down to the Malecon for a stroll and sunset drinks.

We ended up at El Patron, because we negotiated some good prices on happy hour drinks. 

We found a hidden gem restaurant in Puerto Vallarta – El Santo Taco was dinner for the evening – it was so good!

It’s on the main touristy street (Basilio Badillo) but it’s somewhat tucked away so a lot of people miss this hidden gem restaurant in Puerto Vallarta.

They’ve got the slab of pastor right out front, and man is it tasty. The seating area is in an open-air garden vibe with fun lights.

And most tacos are under 25 pesos each. 

Day 13: Hiking, Turkish Bath and Tacos

After a basic but hearty breakfast at the hotel, we hiked up to Mirador el Cerro de la Cruz for the best views in all of Puerto Vallarta .

It’s quite a steep hike through the narrow streets, but you can take your time and enjoy the beautiful homes and lush gardens along the way. 

Once we got back down to the Malecon, we enjoyed some refreshing beers as a reward, and I also got my hair braided!

We ate lunch at La Tostaderia under the yellow umbrellas !

My tostada was so fresh tasting and the fresh squeezed pineapple juice was the biggest hit. I wish we could have gone back for another meal. 

We did some more sightseeing in town and walked back to the hotel on Isla Cuale, through the river market.

At the end of the island is ‘cat park’ where a bunch of stray cats live! So we stayed for a few extra minutes and cuddles. 

After an afternoon dip in the rooftop pool, we headed to our appointment at Hamam Turkish Boutique Spa .

We enjoyed the 2 hour traditional Turkish spa treatment, which included a sauna, steam room, exfoliation, marble table bathing rituals and a full body massage.

I highly recommend trying out this unique experience when visiting Puerto Vallarta!

For dinner, of course it was time for more tacos.

Tonight we visited Tacos Sonorita which came highly recommended and did not disappoint.

Not only were the pastor tacos delicious, they had an excellent selection of margaritas – I went with the tamarind flavor, but wanted to try the passionfruit and hibiscus.

And we discovered this spot is one of the stops on the popular walking taco tour!

And most tacos were 55 – 70 pesos for 3! 

Day 14: Botanical Garden and Tequila Tasting

Fun day trip from puerto vallarta.

Today we took one of my favorite day trips from Puerto Vallarta , a tour that took us to a small village for coffee tasting, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens and then a tequila tasting!

We booked a small group tour through Viator , and our guides picked us up from our hotel.

Since the botanical gardens are about an hour from town, we stopped at a small village where the locals roast some of the best coffee I’ve ever tried. It’s got cinnamon and cacao in it. 

Then we arrived at the botanical gardens for a gorgeous afternoon among the most lush plant life! If you’re an orchid lover, you have to come here.

If you’re part of the tour, don’t forget to order your free hibiscus tea at the restaurant. 

Our last stop of the day was at a tequila distillery , Rancho Los Veranos.

This was such a fun experience and they don’t skimp on the tequila samples! We also had a fresh prepared lunch with great views overlooking the ranch. 

We were dropped off at our hotel just in time for a warm sunset dip in the infinity pool overlooking the bay. 

DIY Taco Tour

Tonight we decided to do a DIY taco tour . Our first stop was Taqueria Las Güeras.

Another great stop (also on the taco tours). Your table gets six homemade salsas and sauces ranging from mild to death on the spicy scale.

There’s a huge selection of different kinds of tacos, but of course I had to try pastor and birria. 

We kept seeing every table order this dark drink that was being poured from a huge vat.

We were told it was hibiscus juice so we ordered one. WOW. I am so in love with hibiscus juice after this trip.

It’s like a better version of cranberry juice. With the juice, two beers, two tacos and two quesadillas, it came to 203 pesos. 

Next up street tacos . Oh my! SO good.

These were probably my favorite pastor tacos, because they shave off the pork and it lands in its own grease to cook a little bit before they put it in your tacos.

Remember, calories don’t count on vacation. This street taco cart is found at the intersection of Madero and the 200. 

Day 15: Yelapa Day Trip

Pancakes and green juice for breakfast.

This was an interesting day. We started with breakfast at the Pancake House, a staple restaurant we always have to visit at least once.

Surprisingly, they haven’t seemed to increase prices in the 8 years since I was there last. I had the black forest pancakes for 75 pesos (less than $4 usd). 

I found a fantastic fresh juice vendor across from Hotel Posada to wash down the pancakes.

There was spinach, celery, cactus and all kinds of good stuff in there. 

Making our way to Yelapa

We took an Uber to the town of Boca de Tomatlan to catch the water taxi to Yelapa, which is a small fishing village only accessible by boat. 

From Boca, we caught the water taxi which took 30 minutes to get to Yelapa. The village is small and quiet, but very colorful.

There’s a fun 10 minute walk through town to get to a magical waterfall . We spent a few minutes splashing around, getting photos and then enjoyed a few beverages in the sun. 

The waterfall definitely made this day trip worth it.

Then we spent some time at one of the many beach bars before heading back to Boca to catch the bus to get back to Vallarta. 

To be honest, Yelapa was a little underwhelming from what I was expecting.

If I were to go back, I would book a tour with someone who can show us around a little more. 

This Yelapa tour looks fun, which includes transportation to Yelapa, the waterfall and snorkeling/kayaking at Majahuitas Beach. 

Great Dinner Spot

For dinner, we ate at Martini en Fuego , which was SO good.

The menu is almost like Italian Mexican fusion, including a fantastic shrimp menu. It was intimate, the service was great and it felt like a high-end restaurant without the price tag.

I had the Camarones Fiesta (shrimp party) which was a mix of coconut shrimp, deviled shrimp and Robert-style, which was shrimp wrapped in bacon and some other goodies. 

Since it was still early, we walked off our dinner and took a stroll to the Malecon.

At night there are so many great buskers and street vendors. We got some crepes for dessert!

Day 16: Malecon and Marina Day

This was our last full day, so we hit up the River Cafe for breakfast – this is such a beautiful spot.

It’s in a picturesque location and a relaxing atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Coffee is great here. On Sundays they offer a fantastic breakfast buffet.

I ordered the Nopales con Huevo – mexican style scrambled eggs with cactus ! Very tasty.

Then we hit the river market, strolled along the Malecon, did some bartering with the vendors and just enjoyed the sights and sounds of the city.

I finally got some fresh coconut juice and then we enjoyed a couple hours by the pool. 

In the early evening we headed to the Marina, where they’ve got a great selection of bars and restaurants.

We always head to Victor’s where you get a free shot of tequila with every drink order. 

Day 17: Travel Home Day

Our flight home was early afternoon, so we went to one more new breakfast spot, enjoyed some last minute views from the rooftop of the hotel and packed up to head to the airport. 

Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

December through March is considered the high tourism season in Puerto Vallarta, which means this is when it’s the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

But that also means it’s the nicest. We were here throughout the month of February and the weather was perfect. Sun every day with minimal humidity.

The evenings were cool (and I wish I had brought more than one light sweater), but cool evenings mean it’s easier to sleep at night!

However, November and April are perfect months to visit, because these are right at the beginning and end of tourist season, so the weather is still consistently hot, but fewer tourists and lower prices. 

Puerto Vallarta Vacation Recap

16 days in the Puerto Vallarta area was such a delight.

I enjoyed spending time in 3 different places. 5 or 6 nights in each spot was the perfect amount of time.

Two things I really wanted wanted to do on this trip that we didn’t get a chance to do was whale watching and the baby turtle release into the ocean.

I’ll be looking to do these next time. 

I’ve done the excursion out to Marietas Island before, and I think that’s something you only need to do once.

There are plenty of ATV and zipline tours in the region as well, but those don’t interest me.

I would also love to do a trip to San Sebastian del Oeste , so stay tuned to the blog for those adventures next!

I also put together a full video of the entire trip, check it out here !

Before you go…

If you want to stay up to date, get behind the scenes content, or connect with me directly – you can follow my YouTube channel , Facebook Page , Instagram or Twitch channel !

New photos, videos and live streams!

More Puerto Vallarta Posts:

• 12 Places to Get the Best Tacos in Puerto Vallarta (Updated 2023)
• Puerto Vallarta First Time Visitors Guide (Essential Information
• 49 Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta (the complete list) in 2023
• Best Areas to Stay in Puerto Vallarta: a Quick and Easy Breakdown
• 10 Waterfalls and Hot Springs to Visit Near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• 7 Puerto Vallarta Scams: How to Avoid Them and Stay Safe
• Travel Planning Guide to the Best Puerto Vallarta Beaches

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Mexico Travel Blogs

The internet’s best mexico blog, how to find the mexico travel blogs you need.

This site has hundreds of Mexico travel blogs for you to discover — in categories ranging from Mexico travel tips and Mexico culture , to Solo travel in Mexico and Mexico travel destinations , with both on and off the beaten path places!

The easiest way for you to navigate is by typing what you need in the search bar below, or searching by category ⤵ All of the Mexico Travel Blogs are listed below the search boxes.

Mexico Travel Blogs: By Destination

Looking for Mexico travel blogs covering a specific location? You’ll find those here, including Cancun blogs , Tulum blogs and Mexico City blogs — the three biggest categories on this site.

There’s also plenty of blogs covering many other parts of Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta blogs , Oaxaca blogs , Los Cabos blogs , and more!

Yucatan Peninsula

Mexico City

Los Cabo s & Baja

Puerto Vallarta

Looking for more Mexico travel blogs — from all the best Mexico bloggers?

While I love my own Mexico blog with all my heart, I also know some other amazing Mexico bloggers I want to share with you. I think they all bring a unique perspective to the table, because Mexico means different things to different Mexico travel bloggers.

Here are the Top 10 best Mexico travel blogs (in no particular order), along with some info about the individual Mexico travel bloggers, including where they live.

Personally, I think if you’re looking for information on a specific Mexico state , region or city, the best info comes from someone who lives there, or has lived there long-term.

Best Mexico Travel Blogs

1. the curious mexican.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anais Martinez (@thecuriousmexican)

The Curious Mexican is a great source for Mexico City blogs, Mexico food blogs, Mexico culture blogs

Anais Martinez runs The Curious Mexican , one of the best resources for Mexico City food blogs.

As one of the world’s best foodie destinations, it’s hard to eat a bad meal in Mexico City — but for the truly great places to eat in Mexico City , Anais will show you all the culinary gems and best tacos in Mexico City

2. Backpacking Brunette

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alex | backpackingbrunette.com (@alexnotemily)

Backpacking Brunette is a great source for Mexico expat blogs, Moving to Mexico blogs, Queretaro blogs

Alex, AKA the Backpacking Brunette , has a lot of great information about Queretaro state , where she has lived for years, but also about moving to Mexico.

Check out her YouTube channel for everything you need to know if you’re planning to move to Mexico.

3. Plazas y Playas

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Paul Hudson (@playasyplazas)

Plazas y Playas is a great source for Guadalajara blogs, Mexico surf blogs

Paul Hudson runs the site Plazas y Playas , and lives in Guadalajara. He has a lot of great info about Guadalajara, the second largest city in Mexico, but also blogs about the best surf spots in Mexico.

An avid surfer, Paul has a lot of content about the best beaches in Jalisco state (of which Guadalajara is the capital).

4. Passports & Grub

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tomiko Harvey | Travel Blogger (@tomiko.harvey)

Passports & Grub is a great source for Mexico luxury travel blogs, Cancun travel blogs, Cabo travel blogs

Tomiko Harvey runs Passports & Grub , a blog that combines travel and food.

With a food focus, of course , she has spent a lot of time in Mexico! Much of content focuses on luxury travel to Mexico resort cities like Cancun and Cabo San Lucas, but she also blogs about family and couples travel, and Black travel in Mexico.

5. Let’s Travel to Mexico

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Let’s travel to Mexico – Isa (@lets.travel.to.mexico)

Let’s Travel to Mexico is a great source for general Mexico travel blogs, Mexico solo travel blogs

Let’s Travel to Mexico is run by Isabella, a longtime Mexico expat who’s originally from Italy. She has been all over Mexico, but lives mostly in the Yucatan Peninsula. She travels mostly alone, so is a great resource for solo travel in Mexico, especially for travelers over 40.

6. P. S. I’m On My Way

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Trisha V. @ P.S. I’m On My Way (@psimonmyway)

P. S. I’m On My Way is a great source for Sayulita blogs, Cabo San Lucas blogs, M exico solo travel blogs, BIPOC travel blogs

P. S. I’m On My Way is run by Trisha Velarmino, an Filipina expat living in Mexico. She has lived everywhere from Sayulita to Cabo San Lucas, and shares her experiences through the lens of a BIPOC travel blogger.

Besides her blog, check out her YouTube channel for informative videos in locations all over Mexico.

7. Brooklyn Tropicali

View this post on Instagram A post shared by s u s a n | Oaxaca (@brooklyntropicali)

Brooklyn Tropicali is a great source for Oaxaca travel blogs, Mexico culture blogs

Susan of Brooklyn Tropicali lives in and blogs about Oaxaca Mexico. As one of the top food and culture travel destinations in Mexico, her Oaxaca travel blogs cover more than just visiting Oaxaca — but how to have meaningful, immersive travel experiences in Oaxaca state .

In the last few years, it seems she might not be updating her blog as frequently. For the most up-to-date Oaxaca tips and info, check out Travel To Oaxaca .

8. Claire’s Itchy Feet

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Claire’s Itchy Feet (@clairesitchyfeet)

Claire’s Itchy Feet is a great source for Puerto del Carmen blogs, Puerto Vallarta blogs, Mexico travel blogs for families

Claire Summers of Claire’s Itchy Feet has lived in a few places throughout Mexico, like Playa del Carmen, Guadalajara and Nuevo Vallarta (near Puerto Vallarta )

She started out blogging about her solo travel adventures, but is now married with a baby, so expect a lot more content about the family travel and digital nomad life in Mexico.

9. Eternal Expat

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Laura Bronner (@eternalexpat)

Eternal Expat is a great source for Mexico City travel blogs, Baja and Cabo San Lucas travel blogs

Though Laura Bronner of Eternal Expat is now living in Lithuania (she is an eternal expat , after all), she lived in Mexico for many years and in several places throughout Mexico, like Mexico City and Baja California.

Besides her blog, check out her YouTube channel for hundreds of great Mexico YouTube videos, filmed all over the country.

10. Travel To Merida

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shelley | Travel To Merida (@traveltomerida)

Travel to Merida is a great source for Merida travel blogs, Yucatan travel blogs

I have lived in Merida since 2019, and actually do think my Travel To Merida blog is the best one covering this city, though there aren’t many Merida Mexico blogs.

If you’re visiting Merida with kids, I recommend the Mexico Cassie blog, as Cassie has kids and I don’t. She no longer lives in Merida or Mexico, but has been all over Mexico.

I’m Allison, a Playa del Carmen, Mexico-based travel blogger. As a Mexico resident since 2018, I’ll teach you how to travel Mexico like a local with my insider travel tips!

First time to Playa del Carmen? Start here !

¡Hola! I’m Allison, a travel blogger with a passion for Spanish and a love of Latin America travel. I created this travel blog after moving to Playa del Carmen, Mexico to empower others to travel safely and confidently in Spanish speaking countries. Follow my blog to find out how to travel Mexico like a local with my insider travel tips!

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3 Days in Mexico City: The Perfect Mexico City Itinerary

last Updated: March 27, 2024 mexico mexico city

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Planning your trip and looking for the best Mexico City itinerary?! Whether you’ve got a full week or just 3 days in Mexico City, you can be sure you’ll never be left bored. Tacos al pastor. Tequila palomas. Frida Kahlo. Lucha Libre. Oh, and you can’t forget about the mezcal. This city is all that and waaaaay more.

If you’re looking for a colorful city full of vibrant culture, numerous neighborhoods to explore both day and night, and exciting half-day trips, you’ll be pleasantly pleased with all that Mexico City has to offer. There’s castles and canal rides, dog parks and green space. All my (wildly high) expectations were met and then some.

Oh, and don’t forget to stuff your face. Mexico City is full of restaurants and street carts just begging to be indulged in. Chilaquiles. Avocado ice cream (my new obsession and muy muyyyy encanta). Late-night churros. Street tacos. I’d go back just for the food (ok, and all the puppies literally everywhere).

If you guys don’t know by now, I do tons of research before heading off any trip! And it always pays off! I’ve compiled all my ridiculous over-the-top, everything-you-need-to-know research into this handy México City guide to help you plan the ultimate 3 days in Mexico City.

And since CDMX (commonly used as it’s short for Ciudad de Mexico) is the 7th largest city in the world, cramming tons of activities is best done on a schedule. FYI- don’t attempt to wing your Mexico City trip if you wanna see, do, and eat it all.

The city is too spread out for this – follow my carefully crafted Mexico City 3 day itinerary and I can guarantee you’ll check off tons of the hot spots. Now, let’s get to it.

Rea d Next — The 40 Best Photo Spots in Mexico City (the city truly is a photographers dream; just think about the IG photos!)

Logistics for your 3 Days in Mexico City

When to visit mexico city:.

In all honesty, there’s really no horrrrible time to visit Mexico City. The weather is quite mild year-round , although summer (May through September) experiences more rain (with frequent downpours) and winter (November through February/March) can be chilly at times.

Chilly is all relative though – as the city rarely experiences temps lower than 50 degrees (just bring along a cardigan/light jacket in winter). I recently wore dresses everyday during our last visit in late January, early February! So you really never know what you’ll get!

If I had to pick a perfect time to tick off all these activities on this Mexico City itinerary, I’d choose March through May. Not only will the room rates be reasonable, but you’ll be rewarded with the most idyllic weather (highs in the mid-to high 70s and very little rain). Because of this, it’s a very popular time to visit CDMX, so be sure to secure your accommodation early.

I visited in late December for New Year’s Eve, and found the mornings and nights to be somewhat chilly (jeans and a tee shirt weather), and the late-mornings/early-afternoons to be quite warm. The lows can drop to the 40s at night so keep this in mind if you plan to have lots of late-night shenanigans. I still wore dresses practically everyday during my trip, and brought along a cardigan and jean jacket to keep me warm.

To Keep in Mind:

A note on Mexico City’s high elevation : Before spending your 3 days in Mexico city, it’s important to understand that the city sits at a very high elevation — at a whopping 7,385 feet above sea level. Because of this, some experience altitude sickness, including headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. Make sure to stay hydrated and keep some medicine on you at all times.

It’s also important to take it easy the first few days, but if you’ve only got 3 or 4 days in Mexico City, you may not have this luxury. Don’t let this deter you from visiting, just don’t plan on hiking any mountains (aka, keep your activity level to a minimum if you can).

Note #2 on Air Quality: In addition, the air quality in Mexico City is notoriously bad, so be sure to check ahead and take along a mask should the pollution be expected to be super poor. If this does happen and you don’t feel comfortable spending ample time outdoors, plan to rearrange this Mexico City itinerary to group all the indoor activities on the same day.

And after doing some research, I learned that since CDMX is located in the crater of an extinct volcano (um, so cool) and therefore at a much higher elevation (meaning the sun is waaay stronger over here), pollutants react differently to each other than they would normally — how fascinating (in the most annoying way of dirty air for our lungs). Alas, let’s not focus on the negatives, okay?  🙂

I should note that the air quality was acceptable during our stay, although the minute I breathed in that sweet, sweet Mexico City air the moment I stepped foot outside the airport, it smelled like pure garbage. Just FYI.

How to Get to Mexico City:

If you’re coming from the states, you’ll be pleased to know that Mexico City International (Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México) is a major airport servicing so many locations with nonstop flights (from Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York City, Chicago, Houston, Dallas, etc etc).

I honestly never realized just how accessible CDMX really was. There’s tons of nonstop flights from my home airport of San Francisco, with the flight time being shorter than heading to NYC (which I do quite frequently for long weekends to visit family). In just 4 hours, 15 minutes I could be hanging around Mercado Roma stuffing my face with churros con chocolate – fine by me!

I like using Skyscanner and Google Flights to check for prices. We chose to fly economy and paid around $650 per person round trip from the West Coast USA during one of the busiest times of the year- Christmas and New Years. If your dates are more flexible you can surely find cheaper airfare, although we did not have this luxury. For reference, I commonly see roundtrip economy flights from San Francisco to CDMX for around $400, with flights as cheap as $300 occasionally!

How to Get Around Mexico City:

Uber : You’ll be pleased to learn that Uber is painstakingly cheap over in these parts of Mexico, and is what we relied on most to get around the different neighborhoods. And I’m talking ridiculously cheap – like $2-4 USD to get across town, in an Uber X.

If you wanna feel like a local, take a stab at the metro . It’s clean, quick, and super efficient, and only a few cents (USD!) per ride. We took the easy way out by taking ubers, but if we had more time and weren’t stuffed with churros and chilaquiles half the time (true story), I’m sure we would have been more motivated to use public transportation. Uber was just sooo cheap and convenient it was hard to diverge from it even once!

And if you wanna guarantee you absolutely see it all, grab a ticket for the hop-on, hop off bus , which makes stops in all the popular tourist areas for only a few bucks.

Where to Stay in Mexico City:

Top picks: La Condesa , Roma Norte, Polanco

I personally recommend anywhere in La Condesa or Roma Norte. The Polanco neighborhood is a good choice as well, just know that it’s on the northern part of the city so may take a wee bit longer to get around.

We chose to base ourselves in the super cute, trendy neighborhood of La Condesa, and absolutely loved being so close to tons of great restaurants (Chilpa, we <3 you), stately art nouveau mansions, and Parque Mexico (which houses a dog park filled with tonsss of cute perritos [puppies] – I went here numerous times to just watch them run around and play).

Our hotel, Casa Decu , was stylish to the max and had the most marvelous rooftop garden deck where we sipped coffee most mornings. Plus, it was only about $120/night, which for NYE, felt was a bargain.

There’s a whole slew of trendy hotels here, but since we booked so super late in the game (and we were traveling over New Years), those were all swooped up before we even began planning.

Next time I’ve got my eye on Hotel Carlota (innovative and modern in Cuauhtemoc), Sofitel Mexico City Reforma (stylish rooms and rooftop terrace with an epic indoor pool), and Camino Real Polanco (hip and upscale rooms and suites in Polanco). Go check those out if you wanna stay at one of the hippest spots in Mexico City.

Language and Currency in Mexico City:

At the time of this writing (November 2021), 1 Mexican Peso = 5 cents USD , or 1 USD = ~19 Mexican Pesos. I found it easier to think in hundreds and kept these numbers in my head when figuring out the bill/shopping: 100 pesos = ~$5USD. I found it beneficial to have some pesos on me at all times, as little shops and food stalls didn’t all take credit cards obviously.

The official language of Mexico is Spanish, and I definitely found myself in more situations than one where the person I was attempting to talk to spoke zero English at all. Because of this, it’s wise to brush up on your Spanish before heading to Mexico City. At least learn a bunch of common verbs, question words, and foods.

Although I’ve taken multiple years of Spanish in high school, I realized in Mexico that I really hadn’t retained much, unfortunately. After being in Mexico for 2 weeks (I also visited San Miguel de Allende and Oaxaca on my trip), I picked up quite a bit of Spanish and started feeling more comfortable.

I commonly used a translation app (my favorite being Google Translate) in order to communicate at times when I had a more specific request/question. With all that being said, the locals were extra friendly and always showing appreciation for my attempts at speaking their language, despite failing quite a bit on my end.

Useful Phrases in Spanish:

• hello/goodbye: hola/adios
• please/thank you/you’re welcome: por favor/gracias/de nada
• Ice cream: helado/nieves
• To go (as in take-away): para llevar
• Where is the bathroom: Donde los banos?
• I want/need ___: quiero/necesito ____
• Avocado: aguacate

Safety in Mexico City

I knowww what you’re thinking – is Mexico even safe to visit these days? Well, my enchilada-loving friends (you do like Mexican food, right?), I had the same exact thought. Crime, drug cartels, gang-related violence, and kidnappings are all, unfortunately, associated with Mexico (past and present). It’s true — Mexico’s got a bad rep.

BUT the tacos (and aguacate ice cream)! After seeing a whole slew of photos from my friends recent trips to CDMX, I did my own research and found that visiting Mexico City is just like visiting any other big city. Sure, there’s areas to stay away from and I wouldn’t gallivant around solo at night, but those are precautions I take regardless of the destination.

And wouldn’t you know – Mexico City has the same travel advisory as Paris does (Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution) according to the U.S. Department of State. Read more about the travel advisory (highly recommended) here before making any travel plans to Mexico, as it’s wise to always do your own research as situations and safety can change.

Be smart, don’t flash expensive electronics, and be extra aware/cautious at night (especially if traveling alone). During my 3 days in Mexico City, I felt just as safe as I do in my own city of San Francisco .

The popular tourist areas of Roma, Condesa, Juarez, Polanco, Cuauhtemoc, and San Rafael all felt super safe to me. I actually spent about 2 days here solo in addition to my trip with my husband (worked out that way logistics wise on my 2-week Mexico trip), and felt safe here myself as well.

→  All my female solo travel tips over here (useful for you men as well, but it’s catered towards women, just FYI). 🙂

OH — and get travel insurance! It’s so important!

Yes, you need this. I always recommend purchasing  travel insurance  before your trip. You never know what might happen (flight delays, lost baggage, illness), and travel insurance definitely helps with all of those unfortunate unexpectancies. 

I highly recommend the company SafetyWing  and always buy a short term plan (depending on how many days/weeks we’ll be away) before leaving for any trip! Even if you don’t end up using it, peace of mind is 100% worth it in my opinion.  Find plan options and pricing here (and at only a few bucks a day, there’s no excuse not to!) I always say, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford your trip. It’s that easy.

A few tips to stay extra safe:

• Use Uber to get home after dark, especially if you’re traveling solo
• Keep all your valuable belongings tight to your body, and never (ever) let a bag out of sight
• Use your gut/intuition: if a situation doesn’t feel right, get out of it. Your safety should always be your number 1 priority.
• I’ll sound like a mama, but PLEASE limit your alcohol, ESPECIALLY if you’re a female solo traveler
• GET TRAVEL INSURANCE . I know I keep saying this, but please, it’s so important!!!! If you find yourself in a situation where you need medical assistance, you won’t wanna pay outta pocket for it.

Do note that the more northern states in Mexico (no where near Mexico City) have an increasing amount of drug violence right now (2019) and I wouldn’t consider traveling to those parts any time soon. Again, read the State’s travel advisory for specific locations to avoid.

WIFI AND STAYING CONNECTED

Although you’ll most likely have wifi at your accommodation, it’s a good idea to bring along a pocket-sized personal WiFi hotspot , to keep you connected during your time in Mexico. WiFi hotspots are a cost effective option to ensure you can use GPS apps like Google Maps, check your emails, and catch up with friends and family while away.

With this portable device , you’ll have WiFi wherever you go (even if your phone doesn’t have service), unlimited internet (on up to five devices at a time!!!), and it’s fast and reliable. At less than $9 a day, this device can’t really be beat.

Note that some cell phone plans allow for international use, but many of these are costly. I accidentally turned on my phone service for LESS THAN 2 MINUTES while traveling once and got charged $150 by my phone carrier! I desperately wished I had a personal WiFi hotspot with me then!

Find more information and plan options here . HIGHLY RECOMMENDED especially when you don’t speak the native language of the country you’re visiting. A true life saver.

In addition, it’s important to note that since I have T-Mobile, coverage in Mexico is completely covered. If you’re thinking about doing a bunch of international travel over the next few years, it may be worth switching to T-Mobile if the service is decent in your home area.

Extra tips/notes:

And just one more thing, Mexico uses the same plug types as the USA, so you don’t need to worry about lugging around any power convertors.

Now let’s get what you’ve actually come here for – an absolutely perfect Mexico City itinerary, crafted by yours truly. <3

I won’t be offended if you decide to switch something around should it make more sense during your 3 days in Mexico City, but do realize that I’ve grouped the following activities together for a reason. Note that it’s smart to visit the Frida Kahlo Museum and take a canal ride on the same day as they are both somewhat south.

3 Days in Mexico City

Day 1 of your mexico city itinerary.

Morning : Teotihuacán

Wake up early because on our first official morning of our Mexico City itinerary, we’re off on a day trip! It might seem weird to start off your 3 days in Mexico City by actually leaving the city, but Teotihuacan is the perfect way to start off your trip.

History and archaeology enthusiasts will especially love the remnants of this ancient civilization, and I mean, who doesn’t love exploring former pyramids. It’s definitely one of the most amazing and unique attractions in the area, and is worth visiting to understand the origins of the Mexican civilization.

Located around 1 hour outside of Mexico City proper, Teotihuacan is a massive complex of ruins that was originally constructed as a large Mesoamerican settlement in ~300 BC. Within the complex, there’s a whole grid-like city with several towering pyramids, some which visitors can actually climb! And you betcha climb I did (hopefully any altitude sickness that is creeping up hasn’t caught up with you just yet).

A little history: Some sources say that Teotihuacan predates the Aztec rule in the area by over 1,000 years (um, what, hello!). The name Teotihuacan, given by the Aztecs hundreds of years later,  means “birthplace of the gods.” It’s easy to see where the name comes from – it’s an incredibly picturesque settlement located amidst a beautiful landscape of rolling hills.

Today, you can easily visit these incredible ruins as a half-day trip from Mexico City. Upon arrival at the park, you’ll pay a small entrance fee before gaining entrance to the entire complex and the archaeological museum.

While there, I recommend simply exploring the entire area by foot. It’s fun to wander through the avenues and ruins without a plan, although if you only have 3 days in Mexico City, you’ll probably be on a bit of a time crunch.

If you don’t wanna spend all day at the complex, it’s wise to visit with a clear understanding of how you’ll most likely wanna spend your time. Since Teotihuacan is most famous for its large, towering pyramids, you don’t wanna miss the two most popular pyramids: the Sun Pyramid and the Moon Pyramid.

We climbed to the top of the Sun Pyramid and were rewarded with a bird’s eye view of the entire complex and the surrounding villages. Since it was scorching hot the day we visited, we ultimately decided climbing one huge-a** pyramid was enough for us and called it a day. You could easily spend lots more time here, but we had other things on our agenda.

Before heading to Teotihuacan for the morning, you should make sure to put on some comfortable closed-toed shoes, as you’ll be walking quite a bit and climbing up many flights of stairs. To protect yourself from the sun, bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen. I’d also recommend bringing along snacks and lots of water, as it can get HOT hot hot in the Teotihuacan complex and climbing up the pyramids throughout the day.

And thankfully, the archaeological area of Teotihuacan can’t be easier to reach:

• Uber allll the way there: We originally planned to take the bus from Mexico Norte, but once we realized the uber would cost just about $20USD each way to Teotihuacan, we opted for this much simpler choice. Sure, it cost a bit more money, but we saved some time and loved the convenience of it.
• Public Transportation: Yes, it’ll take a bit longer to reach the pyramids using public transport, but it’s the most cost-effective way. If you’re planning to spend all day at Teotihuacan and don’t have to rush back to anything (i.e. have at least 4 days in Mexico City), a metro/bus combo is a-okay. First, take the metro (line 5, yellow) to the Autobuses del Norte (bus station). Next, walk all the way to the end to Gate 8, buy your ticket to Teotihuacan, and you’re all set! Buses leave approximately every 15 minutes and take roughly an hour to reach the pyramids.
• Organized Bus Tour : If public transit really ain’t your thang, or you want to ensure you’ll actually learn about the pyramids, book yourself on an organized bus tour. There’s quite a few options, and psst – you can even take an early morning hot air balloon ride here.

As noted above, if you’re hesitant to go to Teotihuacan independently using your own transportation, there are tons of tour options to choose from. Tours are awesome because they come with a guide who can explain what you’re seeing and provide historical context for the various sites. As much as I loved exploring on our own, we honestly didn’t really learn too much. Sure, we could have googled, but who wants to essentially read a textbook on their vacation?

These tours are especially beneficial for people who have 4 days in Mexico City or more, as they usually last the full day. Here are three Teotihuacan tours I’d recommend:

1. Early – Morning Special : This is an amazing tour that gets you to Teotihuacan early in the morning while the sun is still beginning to rise. And because of that, you’ll enter the park before the larger tourist crowds begin to arrive. The tour also provides a guide that can explain the historical significance and context of each structure. You’ll have time to explore the complex before touring through an obsidian workshop run by a Teotihuacan family. // BOOK TOUR HERE

2. Teotihuacan and More : For more information and exposure to Mexico’s history and culture, you can take this tour which not only goes to Teotihuacan, but also the Our Lady of Guadalupe Basilica (an important Catholic pilgrimage site nearby) and Tlatelolco, another pre-Columbian archaeological site. Your guide will teach you about the history and significance of each site and how it shaped Mexico’s past and present. // BOOK TOUR HERE

3. Hot Air Balloon Above Teotihuacan : For true adventure seekers, you can actually take an early morning hot air balloon flight over the Teotihuacan complex (say what?!). Your guide will transport you from your hotel to Teotihuacan, you’ll help set up the balloon for flight, and you’ll fly for an hour over the pyramids, temples, and city streets. It’s one of the most unique and epic ways to see this incredible pre-Columbian civilization. I’ve hot air ballooned over both the cacti in Arizona and the grape vines in Napa Valley , and can honestly say I think Teotihuacan would make a great first flight choice! // BOOK BALLOON RIDE HERE

*Note that if you decide to go on a tour, you most likely won’t arrive back to your accommodation/CDMX until mid-late afternoon. Because of this, you probably won’t have time to explore the Zocalo (which was actually my least favorite hour or so on our trip).  

However, if you’ve got 4 or 5 days in Mexico City, you can definitely take your sweet time at Teotihuacán (or go on an organized day trip with no fear of missing out on other parts of the city).

Lunch at La Gruta

After Teotihuacan, head to La Gruta, a nondescript restaurant located very close to the Teotihuacan complex. While it may seem unassuming, La Gruta is a super impressive (and traditional!) place to add to your Mexico City itinerary…mostly because it’s located inside of a cave .

Yup, that’s right, you can stuff your face with incredibly delicious traditional Mexican food while sitting in a volcanic cave. Pretty cool, huh? Also, if that doesn’t convince you enough, both Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera have eaten here, along with Queen Elizabeth II (!!!!!!!!!!!!).

La Gruta is literally across the street from the Teotihuacan Pyramids, so it’s the perfect place to go once you’re done exploring the area. And thankfully, getting here couldn’t be easier. Just exit the ruins from Gate #5 (back right of the Pyramid of the Sun), cross the street, turn left, then take the first right, and follow the signs to La Gruta. I promise you it’s not hard to find – if I was able to navigate to the cave, you will too.

Inside the restaurant, you’ll find cave walls lined with decorations and cool string-style lighting. It’s basically an Instagrammable restaurant at its finest! Once you’ve had a chance to take your photos and sit down, you can look over (or drool over) their extensive menu full of Mexican specialties.

You can choose from various types of tacos, or go for more unique traditional dishes like escamoles al epazote (spicy seasoned ant larvae). We chose the giant mortar to start – basically a giant pot full of all the Mexican appetizers you could ever dream of: guacamole, grilled spring onions, crisp pork rinds, fresh farmer’s cheese, and more. Oh, and the prickly pear bebida [drink] was a dream (get it, you won’t be disappointed).

Many of the organized tours include a meal at La Gruta as well, so don’t feel like you’ll automatically miss out should you take a bus tour.

To understand the timing of our day, we left our hotel around 8ish, grabbed a quick breakfast, then headed straight to the Teotihuacan Pyramids. We climb We ate lunch at La Gruta around 12:30, and were back in the city around 2:30ish or so.

Get dropped off directly in the Zocalo if you don’t mind staying in your (possibly) dirty-ish clothes from climbing/exploring all morning. I sometimes keep a change of clothes in a small bag to not waste time heading back to the hotel for this reason.

Afternoon: Zocalo (The Historic Center of Town)

Depending on how much time you spend exploring Teotihuacan, you may have some time to check out the Zócalo before dinner. To be completely honest, the Zocalo is my least favorite neighborhood on this Mexico City itinerary, and I don’t think I’ll be making it a priority on my next visit.

I found it to be rather dirty, somewhat run down, extremelyyyy overcrowded (it was an absolute mess), and quite honestly, the opposite of charming. It’s definitely not somewhere I’d choose to stay each night, that’s for sure. However, if you do find yourself aiming to tick off all the things, you can squeeze a few of these below into an hour or two (if you must):

Palacio Postal: You may be wondering why I’ve included a post office on this Mexico City itinerary. Well, my friends, it’s absolutely beautiful. I was surprised to learn that in the middle of Mexico City’s center lies an ornate, opulent postal building that’s open for visitors. It’s got a seriously beautiful lobby with an amazing staircase that has been mostly intact since its inauguration in 1907.

And yes, it’s still a functioning post office today. When you go, you’ll see people going about their daily business like they’re not in a gorgeous, epic, photogenic building in the middle of Mexico City. Don’t mind us tourists…

The House of Tiles (La Casa de Los Azulejos): You can’t miss this meticulously decorated tiled home located near the Zocalo. This former house, owned by wealthy families until the 19th century, is now a restaurant. And look how gorgeous those tiles are — almost as beautiful as all the azulejos in Porto, Portugal which I just loved on my last visit!

However, if you don’t feel like sitting down to eat, you can simply marvel at (and take photos of) this unique building from the outside. Don’t miss it – totally I felt like I was hanging in Portugal for a hot second.

Palacio de Bellas Artes: The Palacio de Bellas Artes is arguably the most beautiful building in all of CDMX, a regal white Art Nouveau structure with its iconic yellow domed roof. It’s a cultural center that’s home to a lot of performances, exhibits, and more. Inside you’ll find elements of Art Deco style and it’s totally worth popping your head into as well, even if you’re not attending a show.

Do note that the line is usualllly out the door, so plan to tack on a chunk of time if heading inside the structure is on your must-do list (we opted out and got the view from above at Sears, info below).

Torre Latinoamericana: For amazing views of Mexico City from one of the highest points in the city, head over to the Torre Latinoamericana. For 70 pesos, you can ride the elevators up to the 44th floor of the tower to an observation deck that has 360 degree views of the city.

Biblioteca Vasconcelos: For the book lovers out there, there are few places in the world more awesome (or instagrammable) than Biblioteca Vasconcelos. The geometric, colored stacks of this bright and modern library are filled with books on books on books. It looks like something out of a sci-fi novel or a contemporary art museum.

Kiosco Morisco: If you like colorful structures, Kiosco Morisco is a fascinating place to visit. At first glance, it’s a large, gazebo-like structure that’s a reddish color from afar. Upon closer inspection, though, you can see the intricate detail that went into this unique work of art and architecture in the center of the city.

Sears CDMX & Cafe Don Portiri: The not-so-secret place to get amazing views of the Palacio de Bellas Artes is the Cafe Don Portiri in the Sears across the street. The sidewalks in front of the Bellas Artes building can get super crowded, so making my way up the elevator to the cafe was an absolute must to hide from the touristas.

Don’t miss this photo op – you can click away to your heart’s content from the Sears balcony, just be sure to order a drink (just note there’s hardly any food here)!

Templo Mayor: A large architectural site in the center of CDMX, this is an ancient temple of the Mexica people from the original capital city of Tenochtitlan. It’s a critical part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Center of Mexico City and a wonderful place to stop by if you’re in the area.

If you have 4 or 5 days in Mexico City, you can split up some of these activities into a few different days if you wish, although I recommend picking your top 3 and squeezing them in before dinner. We only visited the House of Tiles and Cafe Don Portiri before hunger set in.

Late Afternoon/Night: wander the streets of Polanco and have dinner at Pujol

Polanco is one of Mexico City’s most fun and lively neighborhoods to explore – it’s got a little bit of everything. It’s a high end neighborhood (and sometimes referred to as the Beverly Hills of CDMX) with plenty of areas to wander and walk around. Here, you’ll find some of the city’s best museums, markets, upscale international restaurants, and high-end shops. There are also a few different theaters in Polanco where you can catch live musical shows, plays, and more.

While you’re here, hit up the high-end shops on main street or stop by and marvel at the strange art structures of the Polyforum Siqueiros and the Soumaya Museum. Or you can do as we did, and just wander around getting a feel for local life in this vibrant neighborhood (of Mexico City’s wealthiest people).

Dinner at Pujol

I cannot stress this enough, head to Polanco’s premier restaurant, Pujol, for dinner. Pujol is one of the most famous restaurants in all of Mexico (and the world) for good reason, led by acclaimed chef Enrique Olvera. It’s consistently rated as one of the world’s top restaurants (yes, I said the WORLD), and is a foodie heaven worth the splurge in Mexico City.

Splurge is all relative though, and this meal would have easily ( easily ! ) costed double if not triple in either NYC or SF. We’re still talking about our meal and it’s been welllll over 3 months since we ate it (guilty).

Every single dish was beyond perfection, and I honestly would book a plane ticket just to go back to Pujol. Yes, it was that good. Are we crazy? Maybe.

This is modern traditional Mexican food at its finest, with a multi-course dinner tasting menu option served to you within the restaurant’s sleek, minimalistic vibe. And of course there’s classic local mezcal drinks, wines, and beers to pair with your dishes as they arrive. Try the bar-side “Taco Omakase” menu, which comes with beverage pairings and therefore reduces the cost of drinks if you’re already planning on downing a few.

→ Read Next : What to Eat in Mexico City (aka where to stuff your face)

I don’t wanna spoil all the surprises, but a few of our dishes consisted of baby corn with chicatana (flying ant) mayo, ceviche-style sea bass, Mole Madre (OMG the absolute best), and cauliflower with almond salsa macha. And you should know that each tasting menu comes with two desserts. Yes, I just said TWO desserts; one of your choice and a post-dessert churro treat that makes my mouth water just thinking about it.

If you’re planning on eating at Pujol, be sure to make your reservations as soon as you know your dates. Reservations here sell out quickly and if you wait too long, you probably won’t be able to get a table. On the night of your visit, set aside ~2 hours for dinner as you’ll be given a whole slew of courses, and then desserts! This goes without saying, but come to Pujol hungry and ready to eat.

Mexico City Itinerary Day 2

Morning: Frida Kahlo’s House and explore Coyoacan

Rise and shine for day 2 of your 3 days in Mexico City! You’ll start this day off with a visit to the beautiful home of renowned artist Frida Kahlo – no Mexico travel blog would be complete without it. This is one of Mexico City’s most famous destinations as it gives visitors an intimate look into the life of one of the world’s most beloved artists. Located in Coyoacan, head to Frida’s home first thing and spend the rest of the morning in this popular Mexico City neighborhood.

Also known as “The Blue House,” the home of Frida Kahlo is a picturesque little spot. In 1958, the house was converted into a museum featuring the life and work of the artist. If you’re familiar with Frida Kahlo’s work, it’s especially fascinating to see one of her main places of inspiration.

But don’t be fooled – it’s actually one of the most in-demand attractions in all of Mexico City. To make sure you get a chance to visit, you need to book tickets as soon as you know you’re headed to Mexico City. As in, the online tickets literally sell out weeks (if not months) in advance.

Don’t think you’ll be able to casually walk up to the museum and snag a ticket – you won’t. The line snakes around the building even for timed ticket holders, and those without tickets are instructed to buy a ticket online for a later date.

If you can, purchase a ticket for as soon as they open (which is typically 10am most days). We booked a little later than ideal and got a ticket for noon, but decided to check out the market and go for a wander around  Coyoacan beforehand so all was ok in the world. Psst – tickets are timed and you won’t be able to enter until the time allowed on your ticket. 

Once you arrive, you’ll show your tickets and have the option to buy a photo pass for ~$1 USD. This pass will enable you to take photos inside the home and around the gardens. And trust me, the photo police absolutely checks for the photo pass when they see people taking photos.

After entering the building, you can wander through the various rooms (some permanent and some temporary/rotating exhibits). In the house, you can see old photographs, letters, furniture, and traditional Mexican decor. One of the most amazing things about visiting the house is how they’ve maintained its original essence and character across the years, complete with everyday household items and decorations.

And don’t miss the outside courtyard, full of beautiful gardens and greenery that will help you enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful historic site. I could have photographed it all day (much to the dismay of my husband)…

Coyoacan Market:

Once you’re finished at Frida Kahlo’s house, plan to head to the Coyoacan Market, which is a huge indoor market selling all kinds of produce, spices, homemade goods, and more. And get this – it’s the same local market that Frida and Diego would have frequented!

It’s everything you’d expect from a local Latin American market, with the smells, sounds, and colors surrounding you and filling your senses. While you’re here, you can also grab a traditional Mexican snack, like tostadas or fresh fruit juices should you find yourself needing a bit of a pick-me-up.

Inside the market, you’ll also find artisan decor, artwork, and souvenir stalls that sell traditional Mexican gifts. Many of these are handmade or hand painted. While the market is busy with people left and right, it’s a super colorful and picturesque place that will give you a taste of local life in Mexico City and Coyoacan.

If you’re hoping to learn even more about Frida Kahlo’s life and legacy, as well as getting a local’s perspective at the lively market building, consider taking a guided tour . Having a guide is really helpful for understanding both landmarks, especially within the context of the broader Coyoacan and Mexico City communities.

This tour will even bring you to a local stall in the market so you can taste the most delicious tostadas . Not a bad idea for a morning of exploring! // BOOK FRIDA KAHLO AND MARKET TOUR HERE

My favorite part of Coyoacan (besides learning about the amazing Frida): the avocado (aguacate) ice cream! One of the most unique ice cream stands in the entire city – Nieves El Kiosko de Coyoacan – is in Coyoacán, and you can sample unique flavors of ice cream here like tequila, jamaica (red hibiscus), and zapote (a local Mexican flavor).

And that’s not even all the crazy flavors they have – there are tons more to try! If you’re a big ice cream aficionado, you may need to come here twice to try them all! No judgments.  🙂 

Before heading off to Xochimilco, go for a short wander around the area as it’s just so colorful and full of life. I especially loved exploring this area that I came back once more at the end of my Mexico trip (after visiting Oaxaca for a week)!

Afternoon: Canal Ride at Xochimilco

I told you this would be a jam-packed Mexico City 3 day itinerary, didn’t I?! Well, buckle up tightly because you’re about to take a ride at Xochimilco, a charming little waterway area that’s full of colorful boats, mariachi bands, and people drinking traditional mezcal cocktails and pulque. It’s basically like a party on a boat floating in the middle of Mexico City, and it’s absolutely wild (in the best way possible).

“Xochimilco” in Nahuatl language means “where the flowers grow,” and the name signifies the series of gorgeous floating gardens around the Xochimilco waterways and canals. Here, you’ll ride along on your own boat with a driver and admire all of the beauty (and sometimes, welcomed craziness) that’s going on around you.

One thing to note : Xochimilco can be fairly crowded. There are usually dozens of boats competing for space with rowdy tourists or locals blasting music from their boughs. This just adds to the whole experience, promise. It’s kinda like a mix of the Venice Canals in Italy and the Floating Markets in Thailand, but with more color and Mexican pizazz.

Logistics : Getting to Xochimilco can be a bit of a challenge, so I recommend simply calling an Uber to take you from Coyoacan to Xochimilco. The trip can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the traffic and what time of day you decide to go. Before you leave, grab some snacks and drinks for the boat ride, as they’ll be cheaper in the city center and you’ll have more variety available. All of the boats are BYOB and you can bring as much food/beverages as you want.

It’s totally up to you if you want to book a boat rental ahead of time or simply do it once you arrive in Xochimilco. We chose to do the latter, but definitely overpaid a bit due to our lacking Spanish skills and got taken advantage of because of this.

Later we learned that prices should cost 500 pesos per hour (NOT per person), so thankfully we didn’t over pay toooo much (if I remember correctly we paid 1000 pesos for an hour and a half, but thankfully our ride ended up being more like 2 hours). It’s most cost effective (and fun) if you split the cost with a larger group of people- I can see it being a super fun activity with a group of friends!

While you’re on the boat, you’ll see vendors floating by selling souvenirs (I should have gotten that flower crown), drinks (alcoholic and not), and snacks/food (tacos, corn, etc). Bring along a few bills and plan to get a few things – it just adds to the overall experience.

If you see anything you want to buy or any places on the shore you want to stop into, ask your driver to pull the boat over! We got elote from a local woman grilling the corn directly on her boat, and it was the best decision we made all day. Psst – don’t worry about throwing back too many beers; there are restrooms available along the shore for a small fee as well.

If planning all of the logistics seems overwhelming to you (or you don’t wanna get ripped off), it’s easy to find a tour that will organize everything for you. You can book this tour to Xochimilco that provides a guide and all of the boat ride amenities I listed above. As mentioned above, we went just the two of us, but I think it would have been even more fun if we were with a whole bunch of other people, even if just meeting them. // BOOK XOCHIMILCO BOAT RIDE HERE

You can also spend this entire day of your 3 days in Mexico City on its own guided tour. This recommended group tour starts with a visit to Xochimilco, then brings you to the Frida Kahlo House and around Coyoacan. If you’d rather relax than worry about transportation and logistics during your trip, this is an excellent option that covers everything on Day 2 of this Mexico City itinerary. // BOOK TOUR TO XOCHIMILCO, FRIDA KAHLO, and COYOACAN HERE

Night : Lucha Libre Match

If you’re visiting on a Tuesday, Friday, or Sunday, be sure to add a Lucha Libre match to your Mexico City itinerary! You’ve probably seen it on TV or in Nacho Libre, but the Lucha Libre is actually a real thing that you can experience in Mexico City.

This expressive wrestling display is an amazing way to soak in the energy of Mexico City and get in on the action of the luchadores , the colorful, costumed fighters who steal the show.

Mexican wrestling has been a tradition in the country since the late 1800s, complete with costumes and all. When you attend a Lucha Libre match, it’s as much of a fight as it is a comedic drama. The audience gets really into it, shouting, cheering, and booing as the night progresses.

Warning: you might find yourself laughing hysterically, staring in awe, and shouting in Spanish all within the span of a few minutes. It might also be the most fun you’ll have in your 3 days in Mexico City.

The Lucha Libre shows only happen on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays in the late evenings, so grab an early dinner and head to the Arena Mexico. Be sure to leave your snacks, drinks, and camera at home (cell phones are fine), as you won’t be allowed to enter the arena with any of these.

Security does a full pat-down and bag check so come prepared for that, too. I read horror stories of cameras getting taken away or people not being allowed to enter the arena. Just leave it at home and you’ll have zero problems.

The Arena Mexico is located about 10 minutes away from the Cuauhtemoc Metro station, or you can Uber to the arena. Once you’re there, you can buy your ticket from the ticket booth and head through security to enter the arena.

I have to admit it was a bit confusing with all the people crowded into different lines, and we weren’t sure exactly how to purchase a ticket at first. Due to our (extremely) limited Spanish, we found ourselves just following another tourist-looking couple who was taking orders from a man speaking Spanish.

You can try to organize getting to and from the Lucha Libre yourself (and getting tickets), but the easiest way to do it is by booking an organized tour. That way, you won’t have to worry about transportation, buying your tickets, and other logistics. And plus, many Lucha Libre tours include some tacos before the match (and I’ll never say no to a taco!). We recommend this one and this one , both excellent options.

If you’re not able to squeeze in a Luche Libre match into your 3 day Mexico City itinerary, check out a Mexican folklore ballet instead!

Mexico City Itinerary Day 3:

I PROMISE the last day on this Mexico City itinerary will be a bit more relaxing. It’s a big city with a ton to see and do, so gotta fit it all in, right?!

Morning : Chapultepec Castle and Park

You’ll start your final morning at in the Chapultepec area! If you have 4 or 5 days in Mexico City, I’d recommend going a bit more slowly in this area, as there’s a LOT to see here. However, do note that you don’t HAVE to see it all – we chose to visit the castle and the Anthro Museum and were pleased with our picks.

Located inside of a sprawling park, Chapultepec is one of the most iconic sights in all of Mexico City and a necessary stop on your Mexico City itinerary. A beautiful and elegant historic house located atop a hill, Chapultepec Castle is actually the only castle in all of North America that actually had a “crowned” ruler as an inhabitant.

After the Mexican-American War, an Austrian prince assumed the crown of emperor of Mexico for a couple of years and lived in this home. Who knew this Mexico blog post would be a bit of a history lesson, am I right?

As you can imagine, the castle is incredibly beautiful, with spacious rooms, amazing architecture, lovely gardens, and a terrace with some pretty spectacular views. We spent the morning wandering through the house and gardens, admiring its beauty and splendor.

And if you’re up for even more history, Chapultepec also houses the National Museum of Cultures. Inside, you can see many exhibits and artifacts from the Aztecs and other pre-Columbian societies in Mexico, as well as more modern artifacts from the Mexican Revolution and beyond. I have to admit that we were a bit historied out at this point, so chose to skip this museum.

The surrounding park is also home to several attractions, including 3 other museums (told ya it was big), the zoo, and several trails leading to fountains and statues of important figures in Aztec and Mexican history.

It’s pretty easy to get here by Uber or on the Metro – just get off at the Auditorio or Chapultepec stops. When you arrive at Chapultepec, you’ll walk up a hill before reaching the official entrance to the castle. We were kinda confused as to how to get in, but figured it out eventually. It costs 70 pesos to get in, plus a small fee for camera use.

And plus – if you’re a student or teacher of sorts (like me!) you’ll get in for free; don’t bother waiting on line, just show your ID card to the guard at the entrance to the hill. Note that Chapultepec is closed on Mondays, so if you find yourself in CDMX, you may need to take that into account.

Anthropology Museum

Once you’re finished at Chapultepec, you can walk over to the nearby Anthropology Museum. Because no Mexico travel blog would be complete without a visit to the largest museum in Mexico, of course! The Anthropology Museum is one of the most complete and breathtaking museums in Mexico City with its extensive collection of artifacts from the pre-Columbian time period.

Two of the most famous pieces in the museum include the Stone of the Sun, an Aztec stone calendar used to tell time, and some giant stone heads from the Olmecs civilization (and trust me – they’re more than impressive).

I also saw a bunch of other outstanding artifacts during my visit to the Anthro Museum, including tools and ceremonial items which really gave me a first-hand look into the history and culture of the various civilizations that occupied modern day Mexico.

Cost: 70 pesos. Do note that it’s really popular amongst tourists and locals (especially on Sundays), so don’t be alarmed if you have to wait in a line to get in.

If you arrive at the right time, you can see the voladores , a traditional rain and soil fertility summoning ritual of the Totonac people which involves men in traditional costumes playing music and swinging around poles at the front entrance of the museum. It happens regularly throughout the day, so if you wait long enough, you should be able to catch the performance.

Grab a Snack at the Original El Moro

After all of your adventuring this morning, it’s time for a well-deserved snack! Take a short Metro ride to the original El Moro Churreria, located on Eje Central Lazaro Cardenas. There are other locations around town, but honestly this one is the cutest and prettiest and it’s worth the extra trek to get here (if you’re like me and care about branding and instagram-worthy desserts).

El Moro is famous for their churros, chocolate, and mini consuelos (ice cream sandwiches), which, let’s just say, I indulged in a few too many times during my 3 days in Mexico City. I was even able to watch my scrumptious churros being made in the kitchen! Prices here are reasonable (50-70 pesos per item) and it’s a fun break and sugar fix.

It’s also open 24 hours in case you just so happen to be craving sugar and caffeine at an odd hour of the night.

And just like Pujol, I’m still raving about the mini consuelos to everyone who’ll continue to listen to me annoyingly gush about them.

Afternoon : Explore Condesa/Roma Norte

In the afternoon, we headed to the neighborhoods of Condesa and Roma Norte to wander around on our own. This area of town is SUPER cute and trendy, with lots of adorable boutiques, chic cafes, and colorful buildings. Don’t miss strolling down the leafy green Amsterdam Street (my favorite), which is a circular tree-lined street with art deco architecture, unexpected corners, and a haven for people watchers.

While in the Condesa, you can visit one of the largest bookstores in Mexico, Libreria Rosario Castellanos. Or, alternatively, just pop into a bunch of the local shops and soak in the fun and laid-back vibes of this popular neighborhood.

Parque Mexico

Parque Mexico is inside of La Condesa, and it’s a local hangout spot popular amongst street musicians and bands. There are very few times where someone isn’t playing music in Parque Mexico – my advise, stop for a few minutes and take it all in!

Also, if you’re a dog lover, you’ll absolutely LOVE Parque Mexico. The park is a popular spot for local dog walkers and trainers, who bring dogs here to play and walk around. There’s actually a dog school in this park where they train the dogs on all of the basic commands, and it’s sooo fun to watch all the pups!

I actually visited Parque Mexico numerous times (as our hotel was only a block away) just to spy on all the dogs. 

Casa Luis Barragan

I’m gonna preface this paragraph with this: I didn’t go here (cue the sad face). I wanted to oh so badly, but silly me didn’t realize you have to book your tickets weeks in advance. I’m still so mad I didn’t plan far enough in advance to go here, so be sure to snag a ticket early on if this is something you wanna do.

Now that my sad story is over, lemme explain exactly what Casa Luis Barragan is – and why I wanted to go so badly.  

With it’s highly saturated color, unique architectural designs, and blend of Mexican culture, Luis Barragan’s house is all this and more. He was a famous Mexican architect who was known internationally for his designs, eventually earning him the acclaimed Pritzker Prize for his work (!!!). His home features furniture and decor from the architect’s life, as well as an opportunity to visit his workshop.

It’s walkable from La Condesa and I heard it’s an interesting place to visit, if not for the unusual design of the building itself. And if you’re looking for places to photograph in CDMX, Casa Luis Barragan is easily one of the most instagrammable places in Mexico City .

As noted previously, to visit, you must make a reservation in advance, as tickets sell out quickly. They’re a steal at only 400 pesos each, and you can book online here . I unfortunately attempted to book way too late, and wasn’t able to snag a ticket. There’s always next time for me!

Night : Mercado Roma

In the evening, grab dinner at Mercado Roma, which is a local open air public market filled with lots of food and dessert stalls. Mercado Roma is located in Roma Norte on Queretaro street, and you can easily identify the entrance of the market by the huge, retro signs at the front.

At the Mercado Roma, the vibe is more hipster than traditional Mexican, so you can expect to find some indie-type vendors and international fusion stalls. It’s a super Instagrammable location, with charming little food stalls in front of old, exposed brick walls.

Mercado Roma is known locally as a meeting point for the trendy young-professionals of Mexico City, and we saw a ton of them working alongside each other on their laptops. Inside of the market, there’s an adorable hanging garden and long, communal picnic tables to sit and hang around.

If you’d prefer to sip on a cold beer, there is a craft beer garden on the third floor of the building where you can toast to your amazing 3 days in Mexico City. And don’t forget to get more churros from El Moro at Mercado Roma, as there’s another location here as well!

Are you currently planning 3 days in Mexico City? Hopefully this Mexico City itinerary cuts down your planning time and gives you loads of great ideas for your stay!

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August 29, 2022 at 6:37 pm

heading to CDMX next week and will be following a lot of this! thank you!

December 14, 2022 at 12:25 pm

I was so surprised by Mexico City and after a first visit 3 years ago it fast became one of my favourite cities. Have now stayed in various different parts on 4 different visits. There’s so much to see and experience and felt safe even on the metro.

August 13, 2023 at 5:07 pm

I will be there for 4 1/2 days in a few weeks, and I’m really glad I stumbled upon your blog. It summarized everything I’ve been reading about online. Thank you!!

August 13, 2023 at 6:04 pm

You’ll have such a great trip! 4-5 days is the perfect amount of time, and you can really do oh so much in that timeframe! Glad the post helped!

October 5, 2023 at 10:20 am

I just planned a last minute trip and it will be my first time in CDMX! So so happy i stumbled upon your blog. I loved that you gave the day by day breakdown, and honest reviews of everything. This was super helpful with planning the outline of the trip. Can’t wait for my trip and to read more of your content 🙂

November 21, 2023 at 12:07 pm

I lived in Condesa for over 5 months, CDMX is definitely my favourite city in North America and I’d recommend it to anyone

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Tulum mexico travel guide — the fullest tulum travel blog for a great trip to the resort paradise of mexico for first-timers.

Tulum is also known as the ancient Mayan town where is rich in indigenous culture. Not too hustle and bustle like the city of Cancun which is just about 130 kilometers to the south of Cancún, but Tulum gives visitors moments of relaxation and peace on the smooth white sand beaches with emerald green water with pristine natural beauty along with magnificent limestone sinkholes called Cenotes. Discovering the town of Tulum will be an extremely memorable experience when it owns many stunning beaches along with the most luxurious resorts and bars located next to the beautiful Caribbean Coast. So, what to do and how to plan a budget perfect trip to Tulum, Mexico for the first-time visit? Let’s check out our Tulum travel blog (Tulum blog) with the fullest tulum mexico travel guide (Tulum mexico guide, Tulum travel guide, Tulum guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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For those travelers who are looking for an emotional trip, love to explore ancient civilization and enjoying the feeling of lightness and peace in the wild natural scenery, exploring the town of Tulum will be a “extreme” choice.

Tulum mexico travel guide: Overview of Tulum

Tulum was a pre-Columbian Maya city and once play an important role as the main port of Coba city. This town is located on cliffs up to 12m high along the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. And Tulum is the last city built and inhabited by the Mayan people. Because of the best preservation, Tulum has become a worth visit and memorable destination for many tourists.

Unlike the festive atmosphere of the neighboring town of Cancun, Tulum gives visitors peaceful moments of relaxation by the white sand beaches and full of sunshine and sparkling water of the sea.

Tulum was the strongest city between the 13th and 15th centuries. It was a trading port and the only Mayan city built on the coast as well as one of the few cities surrounded with defensive stone walls. This makes the ruins here are best preserved.

Tulum Mexico travel guide: When to go?

The best time to visit Tulum town is from October to December every year. However, visitors can still travel to Tulum beyond the above time period with the advantage of being able to book cheap rooms and cheaper prices for other services.

Tulum travel blog: Transportation?

Although tourism in Mexico is highly developed, there is currently no direct flight to Tulum. Therefore, if you want to reach this town, you must fly to Cancun and continue traveling by bus of bus companies such as ADO, OCC, AU, Blablacar… for another 2 hours journey with tickets from $9/person before arriving in the beautiful town of Tulum. See bus schedules and routes here.

To getting around Tulum, the best way is to rent a bike.

In particular, most of the resorts and hotels here have transfer services at the airport. So, to avoid wasting time and costs, it is the best for you should ask for more information regarding this service when booking room. And note for first time visitors to Tulum, you should print the specific address of the hotel you will stay or confirm the hotel room number and given it to the driver to avoid confusion.

And always make sure your Tulum trip isn’t interrupted by money issues. You should exchange money first and hold cash when you traveling in Tulum because there are many ATMs not working here. The official currency of Mexico is the peso (Code: MXN). The exchange rate: 1 USD~20.3145 MXN.

Tulum guide: What to do and where to go?

Spend a day at a beach club in tulum.

There are more than 50 beachclubs along Tulum’s main beach. Spending an entire day at a beach club is one of the best things to do in Tulum. There are several public areas of the beach where you can lie down and sunbathe, enjoy cool sea breeze on a chair or a hammock with a fruit plate while sipping a cocktail and that’s the best thing.

Exploring Cenotes

The first destination that visitors should visit is the Cenote natural sinkholes. A cenote is a natural swimming hole which was formed by the collapse of porous limestone bedrock and exposes groundwater. Although the Yucatan Peninsula has absolutely no streams or rivers but the abundant groundwater here still flows steadily under the limestone slopes. From a sacred place, today the beautiful Cenotes have turned into fairytale places for tourists and locals to enjoy and immerse themselves in the cool, crystal water. And visitors can experience diving to admire the magnificent scenes underwater in these Cenotes. The most famous Cenotes that tourists can visit are: Gran Cenote, Cenote Cristal and Cenote Tankah.

Gran Cenote

One of the most famous sinkholes is the El Gran Cenote (also known as the Grand Cenote), about 3 kilometers from Tulum town via Coba and Chichen Itza located on the way to the Mayan ruins in Coba. The sinkhole includes large caves that enough for swimming, snorkeling and diving zones that allow you to see stalactites from very close distances.

• Cenote Trail and Mayan Underworld Bike Tour from Tulum

There are many Cenotes on the Yucatan peninsula but Gran Cenote will be the perfect spot for you to delight in swimming in the cool water. The water here is so pure and extreme fresh that when you see it, you feel like it’s made of crystal. Lots of fish and turtles live in this cenote. Don’t worry, they are not shy at all so you can touch them easily while you are swimming here.

Dos Ojos Cave System

Visitors will love Dos Ojos (Spanish means “Two Eyes”), a system of submerged caves stretching up to 16 km in the north of Tulum and among the top 10 longest underground caves in the world. Dos Ojos owns the deepest cave in Quintana Roo with a depth of about 120 meters from the water surface. There is also a bat cave for travelers interested in adventure.

Mayan Ruins

As an important archaeological site, Tulum has many ancient Mayan architectures that still exist today. Today these famous ruins include a castle located next to a cliff overlooking the deep blue Caribbean sea.

Traveling to Tulum, visitors do not miss the extremely famous place called El Castillo Temple. This is the temple that is best preserved when it is surrounded by a stone wall from before the 16th century. This attraction will be open from 8am, if you come early, you will have the opportunity to explore these ruins clearly without having to crowd in a quiet and peaceful space. In particular, visitors can encounter wildlife living around the temple such as birds, weasels, and Mexican spiny-tailed iguana. And for those who are passionate and love to learn the history of the temple and the history of this land, it is best to hire a guide to learn deeper.

Address: Zona Hotelera Tulum, Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico Hours: 8AM–5PM

Cycling through the forest in Coba

The Mayan ruins in Coba, about 40 minutes drive from Tulum, located in the jungle and that make the difference between the ruins in Tulum and other famous Mayan sites like in Chichen Itza or Uxmal. Coba will gives you the pristine feeling than elsewhere, although it has been discovered and restored a lot.

There are many bike rental shops here and you should rent a bike to explore Coba. You will find strange things when you cycling slowly through the forest that not everyone can see.

• Classic Tulum Bike Tour with Taco Lunch

You will overcome many challenges, passing the vegetation is preserved for many years. You can also touch and climb up to the structures here and although that gives you a sense of disrespect to the historical sites, this is a great way to get the panoramic views of surrounding area.

Tulum and Coba Ruins Combo Tour with Cenote Swim and Lunch

Playa Paraiso beach (Paradise Beach)

This paradise beach is one of the most favorite destinations for tourists. It is one of the most famous beaches in Tulum and Mexico because the sea here possesses deep blue water, smooth white sand and along the coast are palm trees swaying in the wind, the scenery is very peaceful, poetic.

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

Visiting Tulum, visitors will be lost in the Sian Ka’an biosphere reserve. This place has been recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site since 1987 with an extremely rich and diverse eco system. The Sian Ka’an reserve is the common home of animals such as jaguars, flamingos, leopards, sharks, spider monkeys and more than 300 species of birds and many other animals.

Sian Ka’an Small Group Adventure from Tulum

Address: Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo, Mexico Area: 2,797 km²

Have fun at Papaya Playa Project

Tulum offers extremely wonderful and memorable experiences. If during the day you are immersed in the green natural scenery, at night is the time for visitors to “playing hard” at the vibrant bars located right next to the beach. And surely you cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy a sweet, romantic dinner by the romantic beach with super delicious food, super beautiful sea view and sparkling and attractive full moon night parties. Combining bare feet dance on smooth white sand to harmonize with the DJ’s faint music at the Beach Club at Papaya Playa Project, there is nothing more wonderful.

Address: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km 4.5, Tulum Beach, Zona Costera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico

The Akumal small town near Tulum is famous for its large number of sea turtles. Visitors can come here during the day and snorkel to see turtles at close distances that you have never seen before.

Tulum mexico guide: Shopping

Tulum is also an ideal shopping destination. There are many budget shops that selling crafts, jewelry, leather goods and of course clothes. You can find any item here, from colorful dresses to stylish bohemian dresses.

Tulum Mexico travel guide: What and where to eat?

For those who love seafood, Tulum is definitely the best place for you. The seafood here is not only fresh but also extremely diverse. If you want to enjoy all kinds of seafood just step into any restaurant in Tulum to be able to enjoy the seafood party that you have longed for.

However, the night entertainment activities in Tulum town are closed quite early at about 10 pm, most of the restaurants, bars and entertaiment venues will close. Therefore, you should go to eat early.

After a delightful discovery, visitors can enjoy delicious dishes such as tacos, buckwheat noodles, smoothies and vegan burgers, Mexican cuisine … in restaurants.

El Camello Jr. (Address: Carretera Chetumal-Cancun Locales 1 y 2 Lte 3 Mza 40, Centro, 77600 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico/Hours: 11AM–9PM/Wednesday: Closed) is the ideal place for seafood lovers. The famous ceviche at this restaurant is full of shrimp, octopus and various types of fish.

In addition to seafood, you can also go to the budget Antojitos La Chiapaneca restaurant (Address: Calle Acuario Nte. 3, Tulum Centro, Tobiano, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico/Hours: 10AM–11PM/Monday: Closed) to enjoy the delicious Mexican-style Pork Tacos (Tacos Al Pastor).

Those who love meeting will not be able to miss Gitano Tulum (Address: Beach Road Km. 7, 77710 Q.R., Mexico/Hours: 6–11PM) , a bar in the deep forest. This is the ideal place to enjoy a sip of delicate cocktails while dancing to the passionate techno rhythm.

More affordable, Ahau Tulum (Address: Carr. Tulum a Boca Paila Km. 7.5 Zona Costera, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico) is a bar that always attracting tourists with an interesting wooden doll burning event. Here, you have the opportunity to chatting with friendly indigenous people by the seaside.

Tulum travel guide: Where to stay?

Tulum also has many famous private hotels like Mezzanine with only 9 rooms. Guests will be served delicious coffee in the room, bathing in Yucatan-style bathrooms or delighted in diving at locations not far away.

Another option is Maya Tulum Retreat & Spa (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , which offers a variety of sports activities, relaxation with fresh air on the Yucatan peninsula. Yoga is also a popular activity at Tulum, and Maya Tulum resort also offers yoga classes, using creative methods help visitors relaxing.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• La Zebra Colibri Boutique Hotel , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $328/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• AZULIK Tulum , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $675/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Encantada Tulum , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $999/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $602/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Mi Amor Colibri Boutique Hotel , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $299/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Tulum blog: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Tulum you can refer to

• Tulum Ruins Early Access Private Tour
• Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling and Cenotes Full Adventure Tour
• Native Park Zipline and Snorkel Adventure in Tulum
• Bacalar Lagoon Sailing Day Tour from Tulum
• Tulum Ruins Tour and Snorkel Native Park Adventure from Cancun
• Tulum Ruins Tour and Tulum Native Park Experience from Cancun
• Tulum and Tankah Eco Adventure Small Group Tour
• Mayan Inland Expedition: Coba Ruins and Punta Laguna from Tulum
• Tulum Ruins Tour and Emotions Native Park ATV Experience from Cancun

Are you looking for more top things to do in Tulum: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Mexico travel blog — The fullest Mexico travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers.

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Travel to Merida Mexico

A locals’ guide to the cultural capital of yucatan.

Welcome, I’m Shelley …

I have lived in Mexico since 2018, and visited 19 out of 32 states so far (many as a solo female traveler). At this point, you might say I’m a bit of a Mexpert!

Today, I use my knowledge and insider tips to help travelers just like you plan the Merida trip of your dreams, travel to Merida confidently and safely, and finally cross Merida off your bucket list.

🎁 get Your Free guide!

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Valladolid Mexico Travel Guide: The Ultimate 2024 Vacation Itinerary

As I explored Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, I kept hearing about a charming colonial city called Valladolid. Intrigued, I decided to make a stop there during my trip. And I’m so glad I did!

Valladolid ended up being one of my favorite destinations in the Riviera Maya region. With its cobblestone streets, pastel-hued buildings, and laidback atmosphere, this magical town feels like you’ve stepped back in time.

In this in-depth travel guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to plan the ultimate vacation in Valladolid, Mexico in 2024.

You’ll discover the top things to do, best places to eat, where to stay, and unique day trips you can take from this cultural hub. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be eager to book your own Mexican getaway in charming Valladolid!

How to Get to Valladolid, Mexico

Valladolid is located in Mexico’s Yucatán state, about 100 miles (160 km) west of Cancun. The easiest way to reach it is by car or bus.

If you’re  driving  from Cancun, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen, take Highway 307 towards Merida. After 30 minutes, exit onto Highway 180D. Follow the signs to Valladolid, which will put you right into the city center.

You can also reach Valladolid using Mexico’s extensive  bus  system. ADO offers direct buses to Valladolid from places like Cancun, Tulum, Merida, and Playa del Carmen multiple times per day. Tickets generally cost around $8-15 USD each way.

Top 10 Things To Do in Valladolid, Mexico

Valladolid may not be as famous as some other Quintana Roo destinations, but make no mistake – this colonial city has plenty to offer visitors.

From browsing boutiques housed in colorful buildings to swimming in sacred cenotes, here are ten things you absolutely must do in Valladolid:

1. Wander Down Calzada de Los Frailes

No visit to Valladolid is complete without a stroll down its prettiest street, Calzada de Los Frailes. This vibrant thoroughfare is lined with historic architecture painted shades of yellow, pink, green, and blue.

Today, many of the old buildings along Calzada de Los Frailes house charming shops, restaurants, galleries, and museums. It’s one of the best places in Valladolid for sightseeing, shopping, and grabbing a bite to eat or drink.

2. See the Templo de San Bernardino

At the eastern end of Calzada de Los Frailes stands the impressive 16th-century Templo de San Bernardino. This Franciscan church and former convent has an intriguing history.

When Spanish colonizers built it, they incorporated both religious and military architectural elements. So today, you can tour this historic building and see features reminiscent of both a church and a fortress.

3. Swim in Cenote Zaci

Just a few blocks west of downtown Valladolid lies a gorgeous swimming hole known as Cenote Zaci. This open-air cenote features crystal clear turquoise waters surrounded by verdant jungle.

It’s extremely popular with both locals and tourists. Entry costs around 30 pesos ($1.50 USD). If you visit Valladolid in 2024, be sure to come equipped with your swimsuit and check magnificent Cenote Zaci off your Mexican bucket list!

4. Try Yucatecan Cuisine

The Yucatán Peninsula has its own unique regional cuisine. A mix of Mayan and Caribbean flavors, it’s heavy on fresh seafood, citrus fruits, and spicy salsas.

Some iconic Valladolid restaurants to sample Yucatecan specialties include La Casona de Valladolid, Taberna de los Frailes, and IX CAT IK. Traditional dishes to try include cochinita pibil (slow roasted pork), sopa de lima (lime soup), and papadzules (hard boiled eggs in pumpkin seed sauce).

5. Visit the Casa de Los Venados

This unique museum houses one of the largest collections of Mexican folk art in the world. It contains over 3,000 pieces, from decorative handicrafts to vibrant textiles and pottery.

What makes Casa de Los Venados truly special is that it’s located inside a private home right near downtown Valladolid. The owners open their house to visitors every morning so guests can view the incredible collection they’ve amassed over decades of travels across Mexico.

Best of all? Admission is free, with all donations funding local charities. It’s an only-in-Valladolid experience you won’t want to miss!

6. See the Valladolid Sign

Scattered all throughout Mexico’s magical towns and cities are colorful signs spelling out that destination’s name. Valladolid has one too, of course!

You’ll find this highly ‘grammable landmark on Parque de San Bernardino, right next to Templo de San Bernardino. It’s painted the traditional vibrant blue, red, green and yellow of Mexico. Before leaving Valladolid, be sure to get the requisite photo op!

7. Check Out Nearby Mayan Ruins

The ancient Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá are less than an hour away from Valladolid by car. Since the impressive archaeological site opens daily at 8 AM, it’s easy to leave early and explore before day-tripping crowds arrive.

Other lesser-known (but still fascinating) ruins like Ek Balam and X’Tumben lie even closer, about a 30-minute drive north of downtown. If exploring ancient civilizations is on your Mexico bucket list, Valladolid makes an ultra-convenient base.

8. Take a Day Trip to Las Coloradas

Ethereal pink lakes filled with flamingos? Yes please! The Las Coloradas nature reserve lies two hours east of Valladolid, making it possible to visit on a long day trip.

These vibrant saltwater lagoons get their rosy hue from red-hued algae and tiny shrimp. The high salinity also attracts legions of wading birds, including bright pink flamingos. It’s an otherworldly landscape that has to be seen to be believed!

9. Shop for Souvenirs

From artisanal crafts to custom fragrances inspired by the region’s lush flora, Valladolid offers some fabulous options for picking up souvenirs during your vacation.

Top shops include Coqui Coqui perfumes, Kuxtal Galería folk art shop along Calzada de Los Frailes, and the mercados (markets) scattered throughout the downtown area. You’ll find handmade textiles, ceramic votives, embroidered clothing, and more.

10. Relax in Parque Francisco Cantón Rosado

Ringed by historic buildings and anchored the iconic San Gervacio Cathedral, downtown Valladolid’s central plaza makes a pleasant place to relax amid the city bustle.

Parque Francisco Cantón Rosado has manicured gardens, benches in the shade, and even food vendors selling snacks. On balmy evenings, it seems like the whole town congregates here to meet up, people watch, and enjoy the tropical weather.

No matter how you choose to spend your time here, visiting charming Valladolid is an unforgettable experience for any Mexico vacation. Between the rich history, vibrant culture, mouthwatering food, and adventure activities nearby, you’ll find so much to see and do in this colonial jewel!

Where to Stay in Valladolid, Mexico

One thing’s for sure – you won’t lack excellent accommodation options when visiting Valladolid in 2024.

Downtown offers a great selection of hotels ranging from budget hostels to luxurious boutique stays. And thanks to Valladolid’s increasing popularity, more small inns and B&Bs are springing up to welcome global travelers.

Here are my top recommendations across three price points:

Hostel Candelaria  makes a wonderful budget choice in the heart of Valladolid. Guests highlight the charming common areas, sparkling pool, and helpful reception staff.

Casa Hamaca Guesthouse  gets rave reviews for its welcoming hospitality and thoughtful touches. The leafy central garden and tasty breakfasts are just bonuses!

For a truly special experience, spend a night at  Casa San Roque Hotel Boutique . Occupying a stunning 16th-century Spanish mansion, this luxurious eleven-room inn seamlessly blends heritage architecture with modern amenities and sophistication.

3-Day Valladolid Itinerary

Planning a long weekend or several days in the Yucatán’s cultural hub? This Valladolid itinerary will help you experience the best of this colonial destination over three magical days:

Start your first morning by exploring downtown Valladolid. Admire the colorful historic buildings and browse shops and cafes along Calzada de Los Frailes.

Pause for a refreshing swim at idyllic Cenote Zaci before tucking into lunch at a local eatery. Spend the afternoon wandering tree-lined side streets, snapping photos of the beauty all around.

End your evening with dinner at Le Nopál or Orlando’s before retiring to your charming Valladolid inn or hotel.

Rise early and embark on a day trip to the magnificent Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá. Hire an expert guide to enrich your experience exploring this archaeological wonder before the largest crowds arrive.

On your drive back, stop at traditional Yucatecan restaurants El Príncipe Tutul-Xiu or The Pickled Onion for a late lunch. Back in Valladolid, stretch your legs in Parque Cantón Rosado and do some souvenir shopping before turning in for the night.

On your final day, check out of your hotel and drive an hour east to the surreal pink salt lakes of Las Coloradas. Marvel at the bright pink hues and flamingo sightings on a boat tour of this unforgettable landscape.

Before returning to Valladolid, stop for dinner at one of Río Lagartos’ tasty seafood restaurants. Cap your getaway with sunset drinks and tapas at Mezcaleria Casa Isabel patio bar back in downtown Valladolid. ¡Salud!

No matter how you choose to spend your days here, Valladolid offers an authentic taste of Mexican history, culture, cuisine and natural beauty. For the intrepid traveler, this Yucatán gem should rank high on your 2024 vacation list!

Traveling from Valladolid to Mérida

Many Yucatán visitors like to split their vacation time between colonial Valladolid and vibrant Mérida, the peninsula’s bustling capital city. Luckily, the two destinations sit just about two hours apart by car or bus.

Mérida makes an easy next stop if you’re road tripping down the Yucatán’s west coast. Simply take Highway 180 northeast through small towns like Uayma and Izamal along the way.

This route passes through the countryside and offers glimpses small-town life. But if you’re short on time, opt for the quicker toll road that connects Valladolid to Mérida in under 90 minutes.

No matter which way you travel between them, pairing laid-back Valladolid with big-city Mérida makes for an incredible combo! Check out my detailed Mérida travel guide to start planning the second leg of your Yucatán adventure.

Is Valladolid, Mexico Safe for Travelers?

Absolutely! Valladolid is located in Yucatán state, which boasts Mexico’s lowest crime rates overall. As a designated “Pueblo Mágico” specially highlighted for heritage and charm, travelers of all kinds flock here annually without incident.

Use the same common sense precautions you would in any new place, and don’t wander side streets alone late at night. But in general, Valladolid is extremely safe – including for solo female travelers. With so much history, culture, and natural beauty packed into one small colonial city, Valladolid belongs on every Mexico travel bucket list!

Use an eSIM for Easy Connectivity

One thing that makes travel easier these days is an electronic SIM card, or eSIM. An eSIM allows you to access data services and connectivity on your smartphone without having to insert a physical SIM card.

I recommend getting an international eSIM before your trip to Valladolid. Top providers like Airalo offer affordable prepaid eSIMs for Mexico .

With an eSIM, you’ll have access to fast, reliable data coverage as soon as you land in Mexico. This means you can use maps, translation apps, social media, travel guides and more without relying on WiFi.

The benefit of using an eSIM over a traditional SIM card is convenience. You don’t have to go to a local store to get set up. Just download the eSIM provider app and activate your Mexican data plan digitally in minutes.

Having connectivity throughout your trip really enhances the experience in 2024. Whether you want to share photos of Valladolid’s colorful buildings, use Spanish language apps to talk to locals, or pull up your hotel reservation, an international eSIM helps make vacation travel smoother.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Valladolid, Mexico

Charming Valladolid delivered one of my most memorable vacations while road tripping around Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. And I know it will do the same for you in 2024!

Between the vibrant culture, mouthwatering regional cuisine, fascinating historic sites, adventure day trips, and some of Mexico’s most spectacular cenotes just minutes away – this colonial gem truly has it all.

I hope this comprehensive travel guide got you excited to visit magical Valladolid on your own upcoming trip through the Riviera Maya region. Have an amazing time soaking up all the sights, sounds, flavors that this incredible destination has to offer. ¡Buen viaje!

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Bacalar Mexico: My 2024 Guide to Bacalar Lagoon

• by Nellie Huang

Heading to Bacalar, Mexico soon? Here’s my super detailed Bacalar Lagoon travel guide that includes the best places to stay and best spots to swim and more!

Crystal clear, spearmint blue water, and swinging hammocks hanging from overwater palapa — Bacalar Lagoon is a sort of modern-day paradise that every traveler dreams of.

Bacalar Lagoon (or Laguna Bacalar) is just a 2-hour drive from touristy Tulum, but it cannot be more different. Oozing laidback, mellow vibes, the sleepy town tends to draw curious travelers seeking less conventional places. Officially named a Pueblo Mágico (Magic Town) in 2006, Bacalar is the gateway to one of the most beautiful natural wonders of Mexico .

If you’re looking to go off the beaten path in Mexico, Bacalar is perfect for you! I’ve put together a super detailed Laguna Bacalar travel guide with the best things to do in Bacalar, how to get there, and the best hotels to stay.

Table of Contents

where is Bacalar Mexico?

Bacalar lagoon: why it’s so special, mexico travel requirements, how to get around bacalar mexico, best time to visit bacalar, how much time to visit bacalar, how to stay connected in bacalar, where to stay in bacalar mexico, 1. take a boat trip around the lagoon, 2. rent a kayak or sup , 3. float in canal de las piratas, 4. drift down los rapidos, 5. swim in cenote cocalitos, what are stromatolites, 6. see cenote negro, 7. chill at isla de los pájaros, 8. swim at th e docks, 9. wander around bacalar town, 10. see the san joaquín parish church, 11. visit fort san felipe, 12. visit el manati to learn about stromalites, 12. visit the chacchoben mayan ruins, 13. explore the kohunlich mayan ruins, 14. go ziplining at kan kin bacalar, where to eat in bacalar, where to go beyond bacalar, bring cash to bacalar, cost of travel in bacalar, is it safe to visit bacalar, what to pack for bacalar, packing list for bacalar, more tips for visiting bacalar, further reading on mexico, balacar mexico travel guide.

Bacalar is located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula , right near the Belize border . It’s actually just a 3-hour drive to Belize City from here and you’re just a hop away from the paradisical Caye Caulker and Caye Ambergris.

On the Mexico side, the nearest big town to Bacalar is Chetumal and the closest beach is Mahahual on Costa Maya. Tulum is a 2-hour drive away, and Cancun 4 hours away. Bacalar town itself is small and is concentrated around 15km of the coastline of Bacalar Lagoon (which measures over 42km in length).

Once here, it’s easy to see how Laguna Bacalar earned the nickname, “Laguna de Siete Colores” (lagoon of seven colors). You’ll see all kinds of blue in the water: from light turquoise to sky blue and dark indigo. 

So why does it have so many shades of blue? The reason is because of the varying depths of water in the lagoon, ranging from 10 to 300 feet deep. The shallow parts have clear, spearmint water; while the deepest points have dark blue water.

Laguna Bacalar is a lagoon, i.e. a saltwater lake formed by the waves of the ocean. That means lagoons are always found near the sea. There are close to 2 million lakes around the world, but there are far less lagoons, making them pretty unique!

• Mexico has no travel restrictions, and there’s no need for proof of vaccine or PCR tests on the plane. Anyone is welcomed to travel to Mexico.
• However, I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. These days, it is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19. Read my travel insurance guide.
• Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.

How to Get to Bacalar Mexico

The closest airport to Bacalar is Chetumal International Airport (CTM), which is 45 minutes away by car. It’s a small airport, and you will need to transit in Mexico City to get here from abroad.

Bacalar is just 45 minutes from the Belize border so you can also fly to Belize City and visit this as an extension of a Belize trip. Bacalar is around a 4-hour bus journey from Belize City.

From Cancun or Tulum, you can easily rent a car and drive to Bacalar. Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is really easy, with clear signposts and decent roads. I drive in Playa del Carmen everyday and find it quite easy: just watch out for portholes and crazy drivers!

An  economy rental car in Mexico  averages just $200 for a whole week, which is less than $25 a day. The current price for gas is 16.50 pesos per liter (about $2.50 per gallon). We always use DiscoverCars.com as they’ve consistently given us the best prices and customer service.

Check out my guide to renting a car in Mexico.

• Tulum to Bacalar — 2.5 hours or 133 miles (215km)
• Playa del Carmen to Bacalar — 3 hours or 173 miles (279km)
• Cancun to Bacalar — 4 hours 15 minutes or 215 miles (345km)
• Merida to Bacalar — 4 hours 15 minutes or 215 miles (345km)

If you don’t drive, the easiest and most convenient way to get to Bacalar is by private shuttle. Book a private transfer here and you’ll get picked up from the airport or hotel (in Cancun or Tulum) and  dropped off in Bacalar. 

We book this private transfer service every time we need to get to Cancun airport from home. They are reliable and punctual.

There are great bus networks throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. ADO buses are air-conditioned and punctual, with comfortable seating. They are organized and bus terminals are easy to get to. Pre-book your bus tickets here to ensure availability.

The town of Bacalar is small and easy to navigate on foot. But the lagoon itself is massive and you’ll need to take a boat or kayak to explore different parts of it. Almost every guesthouse/hotel offers rental or free usage of kayaks. (Scroll for more details)

We drove our car from Playa del Carmen — it was easy to drive around Bacalar and parking was never an issue. Some attractions like los Rapidos can only be accessed by car or bike

Most hostels and hotels offer bike rentals . Alternatively, you can rent bikes from Magic Bacalar for 35 MXN (US$1.75) per hour or 250 MXN ($12.50) per day.

While Bacalar Lagoon is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is between January and March , when temperatures are slightly more pleasant and there are less crowds. Avoid the hurricane season (August to October) and the peak season (December) when prices are higher. 

Rainy season runs from June through November, with the rainiest months in September and October. We visited Bacalar in November, and had glorious weather the whole time!

There’s not a long list of things to do in Bacalar — it’s the kind of place you go to swim, chill out and swing on hammocks. I would recommend spending 3 days in Bacalar, with a minimum of 2 nights. You’ll need a day for the boat trip around Bacalar, another to go to los Rapidos, and the last day to just swing on your hammock.

Regardless, I would not recommend coming to Bacalar on a daytrip. The lagoon is just so stunning and the town so mellow and laidback, that you would want to spend at least a night here. Plus, it’s too far from other spots in the Yucatan Peninsula, you would be spending half a day getting here and back.

Most hotels in Bacalar offer WiFi, but in general WiFi connections here can be slow.

I recommend getting a SIM card with internet data to make sure you stay cnnected while on the island. Either buy an eSIM before traveling or a SIM card at the airport upon arrival. You can also get it at any  OXXO shop in Mexico . 

Read my guide on  how to get a SIM card in Mexico .

Bacalar has plenty of accommodation, but it is still rather rural and the infrastructure is pretty basic. Even luxury hotels might not have good WiFi, and most guesthouses don’t serve breakfast.

I recommend staying at a hotel on the lake — most lakeside hotels have their own docks and water views from rooms. Obviously hotels in the town center are cheaper, as most restaurants and activities are located here. For the best of both worlds, stay at a lakeside hotel that’s in town! 

Here are the best places to stay in Bacalar:

Budget: Yak Lake House

Located in town and on the lake, this is the best budget option based on reviews. The hostel is stylish and well designed, and offers dorm beds as well as private rooms. Wish it wasn’t adults-only so we could stay here! Check rates here.

Mid Range: Casita Maya Bacalar

We stayed at this lakeside house (pictured above) on the northern coast of the lagoon. It’s a 10-minute drive to the town center and rooms are basic, but the lake views from our private dock are unbeatable. Check rates here.

Luxury: Mia Bacalar Luxury Resort & Spa

You won’t find any high rise or 4-star chains in Bacalar. This is Bacalar’s only high end resort, and it comes at a price. It’s located on the best part of the lagoon (with the clearest waters)! Check rates here.

Things to Do in Bacalar

Laguna Bacalar is of course the star of the show, and most activities are centered around the water. There are actually quite a few cenotes (underwater sinkhole) in the lagoon itself, as well as balnearios (swimming areas) and Mayan ruins nearby.

The number one thing to do in Bacalar is undoubtedly taking a boat trip. It’s the best way to visit the most beautiful parts of the lagoon in just 3 hours. The laguna looks its best at midday , so aim for the 11am boat.

Speedboat tours leave every hour, and you can easily book them with locals on the streets — their prices are fixed (printed on your admission wristbands), so don’t worry about having to bargain.

But if you prefer something more private, sail boat trips are more luxurious. During the high season, the pontoon tours and sailing trips are often sold out. Book them online here.

Cost for various boat trips (per person):

• 250 Pesos (US$12.50) on a speedboat  
• 350 Pesos (US$17.50) on a pontoon with luxurious seats
• 600 Pesos ($30) on a sail boat with open bar and free snacks

These are the spots that almost every Bacalar boat tour visit (which I’ll share in details next):

• Canal de los Piratas
• Cenote Negro
• Cenote Esmeralda
• Cenote Cocalitos
• Isla de los Pájaros

If a boat tour isn’t your thing, another popular thing to do in Bacalar is renting a kayak or SUP. If you’re staying in town, the famous spots on the lagoon are all within a 15 to 30-minute paddle. Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks, and you can you can easily spend all day kayaking as there’s so much to explore.

Most hotels offer rentals or free use of kayaks and SUP. Our hotel charged 150 MXN (US$7.50)/hour for a kayak rental. Alternatively, Magic Bacalar rents out kayaks for 95 MXN ($4.75)/hour. You can also book a private SUP tour if you prefer to have an instructor.

This is perhaps the most famous spot on Bacalar Lagoon. If you go on a boat trip, you’ll definitely make a stop here. It’s also conveniently located on the side of the lagoon across from town, which is just a 15-minute paddle on the kayak.

This canal was once frequented by pirates in the 18th century. Today, it’s simply a scenic spot with very shallow waters to wade in. In the middle of the canal, you’ll find an abandoned construction shaped like a ship. Apparently, it was supposed to be a restaurant, but was abandoned before it was opened. 

Located on the southern tip of Bacalar Lagoon, Los Rapidos is a natural ‘lazy river’ in which you can drift down through. It’s absolutely magical floating down the rapids here — we lost count of the number of times we drifted down the rapids. It was my daughter’s favorite thing to do in Bacalar! 

Los Rapidos is a 20-minute drive outside Bacalar — and it’s only accessible by car or bike — but it’s well worth making the trip. It has a restaurant onsite, with slightly pricey food. Entry costs 100 pesos ($5) for adults and 50 pesos ($2.50) for children.

Another popular spot in Laguna Bacalar, Cenote Cocalitos is a balneario (swimming spot) popular with young Instagrammers due to the over-water swings and colorful hammocks.

But don’t let that turn you off — the shallow waters here are crystal clear and great for swimming (especially for kids). There’s also a restaurant onsite, with delicious caldo de camaron (shrimp soup). This is also the best place to see stromatolites*.

By the shore of Bacalar Lagoon, you’ll see many rocks that look like pancakes. They’re called Stromatolites — a type of rock formation formed by ancient bacteria. Turns out, they’re the oldest ecosystem in the world! Who knew?

Stromatolites have been around for up to three billion years, and these fossils are still alive today! Living stromatolites are found in only a few salty places on Earth, and Laguna Bacalar is one of the rare spots where you can find them. 

Some of the best spots to see Stromatolites in Bacalar are at Cenote Cocalitos and los Rapidos. As they are living fossils, please be careful and avoid stepping on them!

Located inside the lagoon, Cenote Negro is a large open cenote with a depth of 250 feet. Most boat tours also stop here. Also known as Cenote de las Brujas (Witch’s Cenote), this one isn’t quite like the usual cenotes that most of us are familiar with. 

As it’s so deep, the water here is dark blue and you can’t really see much beneath you. Swimming is prohibited now, since a tourist drowned here recently. 

Within the lagoon, you’ll find several islands — the most popular of which is the Isla de los Pájaros (Bird Island). As you can probably tell from its name, the island is an excellent birdwatching spot (at certain times of the year).

It’s home to various endemic birds such as the snail hawk and parrots. The best time to visit Bird Island is in the early morning and late afternoon. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars!

For those who are not staying on the water, there are actually many balnearios (swimming spots) where you can go to swim off. The best dock is actually at the public pier, Balneario Municipal El Aserradero. It’s free and located in the town center.

The dock is made of wooden beams and a straw palapa, surrounded by turquoise blue water. Here, you can clearly see how Laguna Bacalar got the nickname, “the Maldives of Mexico”.

Named one of Mexico’s magic towns , Bacalar town is a small and tranquil place that you can see in a day. Like most Spanish colonial towns, Bacalar is centered on a main square/park, with streets running parallel and perpendicular to it. The town’s main square is where you’ll find the colorful Bacalar sign (pictured).

Seeing how small it is now, it’s hard to imagine that Bacalar was once a city during the Maya civilization in Pre-Columbian times. It was the first city in the region which the Spanish colonizers succeeded in taking in 1543. Today, Bacalar is a sleepy town that still gives a charming glimpse at old Mexican life.

Just one block away from the main square, the Parroquia de San Joaquin is one of landmarks of Bacalar. The 18th-century church has a vaulted ceiling that’s worth checking out. It’s free to enter.

Right in the center of town (by the main square) stands the imposing Fort San Felipe . The fort was built during the 18th century when Bacalar was often attacked by pirates. 

Today it houses a piracy museum displaying colonial-era weapons and artifacts. There are muskets, navigational instruments, sabers, and models of the boats that sailed these waters during the 17th Century. There’s also an awesome pirate skeleton on display.

Admission is 100 pesos ($5) and the fort is open every day but Monday.

One of my favorite spots in Bacalar is El Manati Bacalar — a concept store that doubles as a museum, restaurant and shop. Its museum has interesting exhibitions and photography on Stromatolites and it’s a great spot to learn about the living fossils that are found in the lagoon.

Sundays are the best time to visit El Manati. There’s live music in their lush, jungly patio and their breakfast dishes are amazing! If you’re lucky, you might even get seated inside the palapa tipi tent, like we did!

The nearest archaeological site is just a 30-minute drive away. The Chachhoben Mayan ruins date back to around 1000BC. By 360AD Chacchoben had become the largest community in the region of the lakes and consolidated as the most prestigious ceremonial center.

Today, only a portion of the site is open to the public. Many temples of Chacchoben are still very much covered by foliage, awaiting for to be restored. Admission is just 60 MXN ($3) per person.

About an hour’s drive from Bacalar, Kohunlich is a massive archaeological site spread across 20 acres of terrain. There are over 200 mounds located throughout the archaeological zone.

While the main attractions are the large Sun God masks, the site has numerous other structural groups to explore. A number of beautiful, intricately modeled censers have been recovered from the site, and are now housed in various museums.

Kohunlich actually got its name from the English “Cohoon Ridge”, which refers to a type of Corozo palm tree found in the area. Its original name has yet to be determined. Entry is 80 MXN ($4) per person.

What better way to see the Bacalar Lagoon than from the air? Hop onto the ziplines at Tirolesas Kan Kin Bacalar and soar through the skies, over the lush jungles and the gorgeous lagoon. Tirolesas Kan Kin has a 1500-meter circuit of five zip lines, perfect for the adventure seekers. A zipline experience costs 750 MXN ($37.50) per person and kids above 5 are welcomed.

For a small town of this size, Bacalar sure has plenty of dining options, ranging from breakfast cafes to food trucks and gourmet restaurants. I’ve provided a range of recommendations below, and we’ve eaten at all of them and can attest to the quality of food! 

• El Manati — Gorgeous restaurant/museum/shop with a lush jungly patio and unique cabana where musicians play. Prices are affordable and their breakfasts are top notch. My favorite place to eat in Bacalar!
• Jaguara Cocina Mexicana — A high-end restaurant serving up contemporary Mexican dishes against a beautiful setting. Perfect for a romantic dinner. Pricey though!
• Kai Pez — An institution in Bacalar, known as the best place in town for seafood. We went in the evening and got ravaged by mosquitoes. But the food was indeed amazing! Try the tempura mixto and caldo de marisco (Seafood soup).
• La Playita — A stunning lakeside restaurant right in town, with Tulum vibes, bamboo decor, hammocks and excellent shrimp ceviche.
• Food trucks — Budget travelers will love the food trucks parked along Avenue 1, the main street that runs parallel to the water. Lanai, parked right outside Kai Pez, has awesome fish tacos. Mi Burrito Bacalar, further down the road, has affordable and hearty burritos.

Most people combine a trip to Bacalar with Mahahual (pictured), a beach town along Costa Maya. Mahahual is said to be an up-and-coming Tulum beach town, but it’s relatively quiet for now and receives more Mexican than foreign visitors.

Bacalar is also very near the border with Belize. We actually crossed the border there 10 years ago on our first trip here, and it was an easy and uneventful crossing. If you’re planning to visit Belize, check out our list of things to do in Caye Caulker. Here’s an informative post on how to get from Bacalar to Caye Caulker .

There are only two ATMs in the small town of Bacalar and they’re always out of cash. You do need some cash to pay for boat trips and street food so make sure you bring cash with you.

Contrary to what I read in other travel blogs, we’ve found that most restaurants in Bacalar now accept credit cards. Both of our Mexican and European credit cards work.

In comparison to beach towns like Cancun and Tulum, Bacalar is definitely cheaper and accommodation and food are more affordable. 

In general, if you stay in town (not on the water), expect to spend around US$30-50/night on a hotel room and $5-10 for a meal. Boat tours start from $15 per person and bike rentals are only $12.50 per day.

Bacalar is one of the  safest places in Mexico for travelers . It’s a small town and most people here work in tourism. The Yucatan Peninsula in general has one of the lowest rates of homicide in Mexico (10 times lower than the rest of the country).

Many travelers report that taking public transport around the peninsula is safe during the day. However, like the rest of Mexico,  it’s advised not to travel around at night . Carjackings have been reported, most occurring at night or on desolate roads.

You’ll be spending most of your time in the water, so definitely get lots of sun-proof gear before you go as you won’t be able to find it in Bacalar.

I recommend bringing sun-proof rashguards that can protect your skin while snorkeling.  KEEN footwear or normal sandals are really useful for water activities. Snorkel mask and fins can be great for observing marine life and stromatolites in the lagoon.

Be sure to read my guide on what to pack for Mexico for more details.

• Biodegradable Sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent with DEET
• Snorkel mask and fins
• UPF50+ rash guard swim shirt
• Dry bag for snorkeling/kayaking
• Quick-dry towels
• Sun hat that covers the neck
• KEEN covered sandals
• Dramamine for motion sickness
• GoPro Hero 7 for waterproof photos/videos!
• Quick-dry t-shirts for the hot weather

• Use only biodegradable sunscreen (or reef-friendly sunscreen) in Bacalar Lagoon. Any other sunscreen would do damage to the lagoon! Sadly you can’t find this in Bacalar, so make sure you bring it with you.
• Bring insect repellent with DEET as mosquitoes will swarm you after sunset.
• The Bacalar Lagoon is a very fragile ecosystem, and can suffer tremendously from irresponsible tourism. Make sure you don’t litter, bring any trash you may have with you home, and avoid single use plastic.
• Remember not to touch or walk on the stromatolites. They are living fossils that have been around for 3 billion years!
• Only small drones are allowed at Bacalar. Please respect others and avoid flying too close to people. We flew our DJI Mavic Mini from the boat after asking our captain for permission, and he was absolutely fine with it.

Have I answered all the questions you had on Bacalar Mexico? I hope you’ve found this Bacalar Lagoon travel guide useful.

Bacalar Lagoon really is my favorite spot in the Yucatan Peninsula and one of the most beautiful natural wonders of Mexico . I cannot wait to come visit again on another road trip in Yucatan ! Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any other questions!

For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:

• 20 Natural Wonders of Mexico
• 10 Best Waterfalls in Mexico
• 10 Hot Springs in Mexico
• 35 Fun Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula
• Yucatan Road Trip: A 10-Day Yucatan Itinerary
• What to Pack for Mexico
• 15 Things to Do in Cozumel, Mexico
• 20 Cool Things to Do in Valladolid, Mexico

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!

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8 thoughts on “Bacalar Mexico: My 2024 Guide to Bacalar Lagoon”

“If you’re looking to go off the beaten path in Mexico, Bacalar is perfect for you!” – really?!? maybe 10 years ago 😀

I’d say even now, over 60% of visitors to the Yucatan Peninsula just stay in a resort in Cancun and maybe venture to Chichen Itza or Tulum ruins at most. I know so many people who have been to this area and never heard of Bacalar. Only backpackers and travelers who actually explore beyond the beach will head as south as Bacalar. I live in Playa del Carmen, and I have been to Bacalar a few times now and the amount of visitors there is nothing compared to what we get here on the coast.

I was wondering if the blue colors have come back because I know the lake had gone green and brown from hurricanes and other things in the last couple of years. Thank you for any current information.

hi Andrea, oh yes the blue colors are back. I’ve been to Bacalar three times in the past two years and the water has been gorgeous every single time I went.

Hola Nellie,

Muy buen tips! Soy brasilenmo y amo y conozco muy bien Mexico. He ido muchas veces a Playa del Carmen y arredores, pero Bacalar siempre estubo en la lista/bucket list.

Ya es hora! Vivo en los EUA y voy a seguir todos tus tips en mi viaje este mes o el que viene.

Saludos y muchas gracias por la excelente informacion.

Hola William, muchas gracias por su comentario! Me alegro que vaya a Bacalar este mes, es mi sitio favorito en la Peninsula de Yucatan. Con mucho gusto cualquier duda que tenga, mandame un mensaje. 🙂

Ya listo con el boleto de avion y los hoteles en Bacalar y Mahahual (gracias a tus tips).

Ahorita busco un transfer desde Cancun a Bacalar y de Mahahual a Cancun. No quiero rentar carro. Intente el site que recomendaste (abajo) pero no esta muy amigable. Tienes el whatsApp de algun servicio de transfer o recomendacion?

Muchas gracias

Hola William, que bien!!! Si, a veces usamos el JF Riviera Tours para llevarnos a Playa del Carmen, no se si hacen transfer a Bacalar/Mahahual. Puede poner en contacto via Whatsapp para preguntar: +52 1 984 176 1374. Son buena gente que llegan punctual en al aeropuerto.

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New cheap and direct flights under $150 will connect Toronto to historic sun destination

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If this week's dreary rain in Toronto has you planning your next vacation to somewhere warm and sunny, you can soon take advantage of a cheap new direct flight to stunning Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, Mexico.

Flair Airlines announced on Thursday that it is adding the nonstop flight as part of its new fall and winter offerings, with trips kicking starting September 13, which travellers can already book online now.

The best part of the deal is the cost: only $139 one-way to the city in western Mexico. Return flights in September are an even cheaper $108.25 at the time of publication, for an all-in total of less than $250 round-trip after taxes and fees.

new route announcement 🗣️ Go from chilly nights to chilly tequila as we introduce flights between Toronto (YYZ) and Guadalajara (GDL) starting 2 times weekly on September 13, 2024 • 🌆 🇲🇽 👉 Book now from $139 at https://t.co/Ehj3JdcUFF 🛫 #flyflair #flyaffordable #YYZ #GDL pic.twitter.com/Jc8FWBV7qU — flair airlines (@flairairlines) April 11, 2024

"Last year, Flair announced its first nonstop from Vancouver to Guadalajara, which was met with overwhelming success. This exciting addition from Toronto opens up a gateway to Mexico's vibrant cultural hub," the airline writes in its release about the new offer.

It adds that it now serves as  the nation's only ultra-low-cost carrier  since the shuttering of Lynx Air in February .

Along with its new direct route to Guadalajara International Airport, Flair is telling customers to keep an eye out for  "additional domestic, transcontinental, and international routes" being shared in the coming weeks. 

The YYZ-GDL flight will run two times weekly to start in the fall, eventually ramping up to three times per week during the colder months.

ehudson /Shutterstock

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