A Guide To The Best Places To Visit In Mexico: Top 27 Destinations You Can't Miss

There’s no better time to get on our list of best places to visit in Mexico than now, or as people say in Spanish, “Ahorita!”. 

Mexico is beautifully diverse. Too diverse every next destination will be a complete new chapter. One minute you’re partying on white sand beaches; the next you’re going back in time in an ancient Mayan castle. 

So, how do we start? This list will take you from popular hotspots to off-the-beaten-path gems of Mexico. Even first-timers or the pickiest of explorers can find their true Mexican calling. It’s just what you need to travel to Mexico and to travel well.

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What Is The #1 Tourist Site In Mexico?

In 2024, Cancun welcomed nearly 9 million international visitors, making it the #1 tourist site in Mexico. Sandy beaches, swimmable cenotes, and vibrant nightlife, to name just a few of its appeal. It’s no wonder the city is a tourist magnet.

Another charm that draws tourists to Cancun is the nearby Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza - one of the new 7 wonders of the world. Less than 200 km away is Tulum, a luxurious resort town filled with stunning beaches and dance festivals.

These 3 tourist sites are all located within the Yucatán Peninsula. The Yucatán Peninsula is also the safest part of Mexico to visit. You can see why the heat never dies down in the region. If you’re new to travelling to Mexico, these are amongst the best destinations to start.

From Cancun’s beaches to the jungles of Yucatán, Mexico is made for adventure—and packing smart is key. Check out the CabinZero ADV Backpacks. Built for versatile travel, with spacious compartments, all-day comfort, and a lightweight design. You can explore ruins, cenotes, or anywhere in between for days without feeling weigh down by your own luggage.

1. Cancun

Fancy resorts and world-class beaches are all in Cancun. Photo by Mariakray - stock.adobe.com

Cancun is where your beach holiday fantasy comes true. Its share of sandy beaches, resorts, ancient ruins, and underwater museums can rival just any along the Caribbean Sea.

Skip the hotel zone’s restaurants. Travel down to Parque de las Palapas (city park) and try street tacos for a fraction of the price but twice the authenticity.

March to April is the Spring break season, which means the party scene is at its peak. Also, seaweed (sargassum) is common from May to October.

2. Chichen Itza

A magnificent 1500-year-old historical monument. Photo by Antonio Gravante - stock.adobe.com

Just a 3-hour drive from Cancun, Chichen Itza is an amazing day trip from the beach city. Its famous attraction, The Pyramid of Kukulcan or The Castle, lines up perfectly with the equinox to create a serpent-like shadow moving up and down its northeastern side.

It’s a one-of-a-kind destination to witness the great architecture of the Mayans. We promise it looks much more magnificent than the photos. To beat the tour buses, go right when it opens at 8 AM. 

3. Tulum

Enjoy the blue waves and ancient ruins in Tulum. Photo by JUAN CARLOS MUNOZ - stock.adobe.com

Cancun is ultimate beach fun; Chichen Itza is Mayan archeological wonder. Mix them together and add in hidden cenotes, you’ve got Tulum.

The unique Mayan ruins of Tulum consist of a well-preserved Castillo (castle) and the Temple of the Frescoes sitting on a cliff.

The cenotes are a must-visit, especially Cenote Calavera. You can dive into the water or be in awe of its skull-like shape from above. Bike around Tulum if you can. The rental fees are much more comfortable than taxis. 

Where Is The Best Place To Go In Mexico For The First Time?

The best places to visit in Mexico for first timers are the capital - Mexico City, Playa del Carmen, and Merida.

4. Mexico City

You never run out of things to do in Mexico City. Photo by Alonso Reyes on Adobe Stock.

Mexico City (CDMX) is modern, artsy, historic, hip, and everything in between. You can find world-class museums like the National Museum of Anthropology (MNA) and, of course, the Frida Kahlo Museum. The city is also one of the nicest parts of Mexico for couples to travel together.

Trendy and culturally rich neighbourhoods are no strangers here. For example, Roma Norte is where you’ll find lots of authentic restaurants, galleries, and bars hiding in neoclassical buildings. Artsy tianguis (pop-up markets) like Tianguis La Lagunilla and Tianguis Cultural del Chopo are just around the corner.

The heart of CDMX is The Zocalo. The massive square is surrounded by famous attractions like Palacio Nacional and Cathedral of Mexico City. 

It’s the realest, most authentic introduction to Mexico you can have. 

5. Playa del Carmen

A coastal paradise for swimmers. Photo by elvirkin - stock.adobe.com

Close to Cancun, but offers a more laid-back. Playa del Carmen is great for first-timers who want to experience Mexico’s coastal beauty without feeling overwhelmed.

Beaches are narrower and have smaller waves, which makes them better for swimming. Recreational parks — Playa del Carmen has lots of them, from theme parks like Xplor to ecological ones like Río Secreto.

From Playa del Carmen, you can take a ferry ride to Cozumel for a diving trip. It’s closer to Tulum compared to Cancun, and Cenote Azul and Cenote Dos Ojos are just a short bus ride away. 

6. Merida

Merida is a gateway to explore the best Mayan ruins. Photo by demerzel21 - stock.adobe.com

Merida is the capital city of the state of Yucatan. It’s about 32 kilometres inland from the Gulf of Mexico coast, so despite being close to Tulum and Cancun, it has a completely different vibe. Think peaceful colonial streets, Mayan history, authentic Yucatecan culinary scene, and a slower pace of life.

Its close proximity to Mayan ruins is why we recommend Merida to first-time travellers in Mexico. Archaeological sites like Chichen Itza, Uxmal, and Ek' Balam can be a day trip from the city.

More Best Places To Visit In Mexico You Cannot Miss

That’s not all. There are still some of the best places to visit in Mexico on our list. You only need to worry about what to pack for the Mexican adventures, not where the magical streets of Mexico will take you.

7. Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo

Still in the Yucatan Peninsula, Holbox’s tranquil beaches and bioluminescent sunsets are perfect for escaping the usual party scene of Mexico's coastal towns. The best thing: no cars on the island, no high-rise buildings either.

• Things to do: bike to Punta Cocos instead of golf-carting to catch the sunset, try michelada with tamarind rim, and take an island tour.

8. San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

Every street a painting in San Miguel de Allende. Photo by Bill Perry on Adobe Stock.

It’s amongst the best places to visit in Mexico for young adults. Two words: creatives’ heaven. You can find writers, artists, photographers, and entrepreneurs working in cafes and public spaces. The city’s scenery is straight out of postcards, and the local beats never sleep. 

• Things to do: Sip chilaquiles and lavender coffee in Mirador, visit El Charco del Ingenio for cactus gardens and canyon views, and visit art galleries.

9. Guanajuato City, Guanajuato

A few hours from San Miguel de Allende. Filled with explorable tunnels and colourful hill roads dotted with colonial houses, the city is one of the best places to visit in Mexico for hiking. 

• Things to do: Visit the Mummy Museum, drink mezcal in local bars, ride the funicular to the Pípila monument, and explore Callejón del Beso (the Alley of the Kiss). 

10. Cozumel, Quintana Roo

Another beach destination on best places to visit in Mexico list. In fact, it’s been declared a part of Pueblo Magicos (magic towns) by the Mexican government, along with Tulum and Bacalar. Cozumel is a diver’s dream. The most popular dive spots are Columbia Deep Reef and Punta Sur.

But even if you don’t dive, there’s plenty to do, such as stroll through the island's main town, San Miguel, or see starfish at Playa El Cielo.

• Things to do: Visit Punta Sur Ecological Park, eat lionfish tacos, rent a ride to the east side for spectacular cliff views.

• Note: You may need your passport book (not the card) upon arrival in Cozumel from the US by air.

11. Palenque, Chiapas

From the quaint town of Palenque, take a colectivo (bus) to the ruins of Palenque. What sets it apart is that this Late-Classic ancient Mayan structure is hidden deep inside a mystic jungle.

• Things to do: Stay in El Panchán jungle cabins, see Roberto Barrios waterfalls which are just 30 kilometres away, and the best time to visit the ruins is early morning as the mist adds a magical touch.

12. San Cristobal De Las Casas, Chiapas

Both San Cristobal de las Casas and Palenque can be accessed via highway 199. If you love Palenque, you must visit the beautiful San Cristobal de las Casas. The Mayan culture runs deep within the community. While Palenque is kind of an exploration-only destination, San Cris has more variety in hikes, monuments, restaurants, and activities.

• Things to do: Hike to the Guadalupe Church viewpoint, visit the village of San Juan Chamula, walk around Santo Domingo.

• Note: We recommend taking a tour bus from Palenque to San Cris during the day. The area has been known for night robberies along the highway. 

13. Tequila, Jalisco

Yes, it’s the hometown of the iconic drink. True tequila tastes earthy, sweet, with a hint of spiciness. The town’s vibe is just the same - green agave fields, laid-back welcoming locals, and colourful cobblestone streets. 

• Things to do: Visit the Jose Cuervo Distillery (does the name Cuervo ring a bell? It’s the name of the family who originated the drink), go plant an agave, or explore the town’s square on foot.

• Note: A lot of attractions revolving around the drink in town may not be suitable for young children.

14. Puebla City, Puebla

It’s the birthplace of another Mexican specialty — tacos. Well, there are also cemitas (Puelan style sandwiches), camotes (candied sweet potatoes), and mole poblano (hot chiles and chocolate). Puebla’s culinary scene is some of the best there is. Puebla City is also the home to very cool churches and Baroque buildings.

• Things to do: Explore the magnificent Puebla Cathedral, try tacos of course, drop by the 17th century Biblioteca Palafoxiana library, and visit Amparo Museum.

15. Xilitla, San Luis Potosi

The eccentric but enchanted wonders of Xilitla. Photo by David on Adobe Stock.

Xilitla is sort of like a medium destination you drop by during a bigger trip, but its charms surprise you immensely. Located in the rainy Huasteca jungle, this is the best place to visit in Mexico if you’re drawn to off-the-beaten-path destinations (or the surreal beauty of abandoned places). Besides the popular surrealist garden Las Pozas, there are lots of beautiful waterfalls and cultural attractions nearby to explore something new everyday.

• Things to do: Visit Las Pozas, a garden filled with mysterious sculptures and staircases built by British poet Edward James. Try zacahuil, a 3-foot-long tamale cooked underground and wrapped in banana leaves. Try to reach the waterfalls of Tamul.

16. Campeche

Campeche’s pirate past can still be seen in its architecture today. As beautiful as it is, Campeche has always been a tourist spot, but don’t let that steer you from experiencing the town. Its history and culture is truly too magnificent to miss.

• Things to do: Explore Fuerte de San Miguel (a pirate fortress), try pan de cazon (shark tortilla), visit the Edzna ruins.

17. Copper Canyon, Chihuahua

Itching for some thrilling adventures? Copper Canyon is even bigger and deeper than the Grand Canyon. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and zip-lining in Copper Canyon Adventure Park.

One of the best highlights of Copper Canyon is the El Chepe train ride. It stops at many scenic viewpoints, including hidden villages and waterfalls. You will experience Mexico’s beauty in a new breath of fresh mountain air. 

18. El Fuerte, Sinaloa

If we’ve had Copper Canyon on our list of best places to visit in Mexico, it makes sense the next stop is this serene gem nestled at the edge of the canyon. There are enough lakes and artisan markets to fill up a day’s itinerary.

Another fun fact: El Fuerte is the hometown of the legend Zorro.

• Things to do: Go bass fishing in Lake Hidalgo, visit the El Fuerte Museum, and eat seafood at local restaurants.

19. Santa Cruz de Miramar, Nayarit

Enjoy a different side of Mexico. Photo by Carlos - stock.adobe.com

A true hidden gem of a destination. While its sisters - the ever-vibrant Sayulita or the wild San Blas - are busy with tourists, Santa Cruz de Miramar differs. Sleepy, practically empty, and idyllic, yet so enticing in its own way. 

The waves are perfect for surfing, but overall, it’s not the kind of town you travel to for activities. The premise of Santa Cruz de Miramar is that it’s a perfect little place to lie down, soak in the sun, and let the world go by.

20. San Lorenzo Albarradas, Oaxaca

Okay, we admit. We recommend San Lorenzo Albarradas as one of the best places to visit in Mexico because of Hierve el Agua. It’s a rock formation that forms a stunning waterfall and two infinity pools you can swim in. Also, an hour's hike from the town is Guirun, an ancient tomb of the Zapotec people.

• Things to do: visit the Zapotec ruins, taste local Mezcal, and take guided tours.

21. Oaxaca City, Oaxaca

Save Oaxaca City for November 1st and 2nd. After Mexico City, Oaxaca is one of the best places to visit in Mexico for Day of the Dead. Oaxaca is where the celebrations are immensely intimate and authentic, yet not as touristy as CDMX.

• Things to do: Visit Panteón General and Panteón Xoxocotlan cemetery the night of the holiday, walk through the city’s square to see the decorations, altars, and tapetes de arena (sand tapestry), and try pan de muerto.

22. Valle De Bravo, West Of CDMX

The best places to visit in Mexico near Mexico City should not be without Valle De Bravo. Most people come to Valle De Bravo to paraglide over Lake Avandaro, hike in the pine mountains, search for the hidden waterfalls of Velo de Novia park, and watch the monarch butterflies. 

The town is pristine, with fresh valley air and an, as social media describes, old-money atmosphere.

• Things to do: Enjoy water activities or watch the sunset on Lake Avándaro, explore Monte Alto State Park, do a short hike to Mirador de La Peña for the best view of the lake.

23. Bacalar, Quintana Roo

The waters of Bacalar are famous for their signature blue gradient. Photo by bysitriel - stock.adobe.com

If you love to explore cenotes, Bacalar has not one but four world-famous ones: Cenote Azul, Cenote Negro, Cenote Esmeralda, and Cenote Cocalito. To add spice to the sugar, Bacalar is also home to a to-die-for lagoon called Laguna de los Siete Colores (Seven Colours). 

• Things to do: Each cenote has their own regulation. Generally, you can kayak, SUP, and swim. Stay in an overwater bungalow instead of a regular hotel. Hike from one cenote to another or to the Mayan Ruins of Chacchoben.

• Note: Beware of mosquitoes. Avoid the humid season, and always carry repellent

24. Mulege, Baja California Sur

Cities on the Baja California Sur have a unique vibe — you’ve lonely highways and cacti deserts on one side, but beaches with crazy parties on the other. Then we have Mulege which is even more unique because it also features lush green, tranquil, hidden oasis.

• Things to do: Hike to Sierra de Guadalupe to see the San Borjitas cave paintings, visit 250-year-old church Mision Santa Rosalía de Mulege. 

• Note: nearby bays like Bahía Concepción usually do not have cell services.

25. Sierra Gorda, Queretaro

Sierra Gorda is the green treasure of central Mexico. The region boasts misty mountains, hidden valleys, and deep canyons. As a nature lover, you cannot overlook the majesty of Sierra Gorda. 

Sierra Gorda is massive, so you will need to plan ahead of which town to stay in and make reservations in advance. We suggest Pinal de Amoles. From the town, you’re only about 1 hour away from the adventure spots: Mirador Cuatro Palos (30 minutes), Escanela River (40 minutes), and Puente de Dios waterfall (40 minutes). 

26. Piste, Yucatan Peninsula

The whimsical cenote Ik-kil is a must-visit for any Piste stay. Photo by diegograndi on Adobe Stock.

It’d be unfair to overlook the village Piste. It’s an ideal point to get to Chichen Itza or come back to rest from your exploration. That’s not the best part — Piste is also only a day trip away from Valladolid, Cancun, and cenote Ik-Kil.

On one hand, even as a small secluded town, there are still a bunch of interesting things to do here.

• Things to do: Take a bus to Balankanché Caves, try Poc Chuc (marinated pork), walk through the local market, and just unwind.

27. Mazunte, Oaxaca

You can’t spell Mazunte without “zen”. The town, 3 hours away from Oaxaca City, is where yoga, sea turtle sanctuary, quiet beaches, and Bohemian cafes all combine to make one of the best places to visit in Mexico for families. 

• Things to do: See the turtles lay eggs from June to December, hike to Punta Comeca, visit Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga to learn about turtle rescue, and take a yoga class. 

• Note: Heed the warnings of underwater currents before diving in the waters.

The Best Places To Visit In Mexico For Everyone In 2025

Mexico is everything you want it to be, and these best places to visit in Mexico let you experience the country’s diversity, its people, and culture to the fullest.

To easily move from one city to another, get an adventure-ready backpack. CabinZero’s ADV Line is perfect for conquering the landscapes of Mexico. Just pack and say ¡Vamos!

And for more amazing travel guides like this, don’t miss us on social media.

Nguyen Tran Gia Khanh