Mexico is a popular travel destination for its history, culture, food and of course, its beautiful beaches. Located in North America, Mexico is a very vast country with incredible destinations to discover. In this article, we are going to explore the best places to see and things to do in this amazing country.
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Yucatan Peninsula
1.Holbox
Holbox is a small island located northwest of Cancun. It is known for its crystal clear waters and peaceful atmosphere. This island is a true paradise for lovers of water sports, such as kayaking and snorkelling. You can also observe dolphins, rays and sea turtles.
2. Cancún
Cancun is a very popular destination for tourists. Located on the Caribbean coast of Yucatan, it is known for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters. You can also find restaurants, shopping centers, night clubs, as well as many water activities.
3. Isla Contoy
Isla Contoy is a small uninhabited island located north of Cancun. It is a sanctuary for many species of fish, turtles and birds. You can spend the day here watching the local wildlife, snorkeling and enjoying the white sands and crystal clear waters.
4. Museo Subacuático de Arte
The Museo Subacuático de Arte is an underwater museum located in Cancun. This museum was created to encourage the growth of artificial coral reefs, while displaying underwater works of art. You can snorkel or scuba dive here to view the carvings.
5. Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a small island located off the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. This island is known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. You can snorkel, scuba dive or observe whale sharks here during the months of May to September.
6. Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is a coastal town located on the Riviera Maya. It is known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, as well as its restaurants and shops. You can also find water activities, spas and bars here.
7. Cozumel
Cozumel is an island located off the east coast of Yucatan. It is known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, as well as for its scuba diving sites. You can also visit museums and natural parks here.
8.Tulum
Tulum is an ancient Mayan city located on the east coast of Yucatan. This city is known for its well-preserved Mayan ruins, as well as its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. You can also visit Tulum National Park, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as cenotes (natural wells) and caves.
9. Coba
Coba is another ancient Mayan city located in the Yucatan jungle. This city is less known than Chichen Itza, but it is just as impressive. You can visit the pyramid of Nohoch Mul, which is the highest Mayan pyramid in the region.
10. Sian Ka'an
Sian Ka'an is a nature reserve located on the east coast of Yucatan. This reserve is known for its mangroves, secluded beaches and crystal clear waters. You can snorkel or kayak here to observe local wildlife, such as dolphins, manatees and birds.
11. Ek Balam
Ek Balam is an ancient Mayan city located in the Valladolid region. This city is known for its main pyramid, which is one of the largest in the region. You can also visit well-preserved Mayan stelae and palaces here.
12. Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Mexico. This ancient Mayan city is located in the Valladolid region and is known for its main pyramid, El Castillo, as well as the temple of the warriors and the pelota court. Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
13. Dzibilchaltun
Dzibilchaltun is an ancient Mayan city located near Merida. This city is known for its main pyramid, as well as its sacred cenote. You can also visit a museum there that exhibits well-preserved Mayan artifacts.
14. Uxmal
Uxmal is an ancient Mayan city located in the Merida region. This city is known for its well-preserved pyramids, as well as its stone mosaic patterns. Uxmal is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
15. Calakmul
Calakmul is an ancient Mayan city located in the Yucatan jungle. This city is known for its Great Pyramid, which is the second tallest Mayan pyramid in the region. Calakmul is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Chiapas
16. Agua Azul Waterfalls
Located in the state of Chiapas, the Agua Azul Waterfalls are a series of turquoise waterfalls that cascade down the Shumulja River. The falls are particularly impressive during the rainy season, from May to September, when the cascades are highest and most spectacular. There are hiking trails that wind around the waterfalls and offer scenic views of the surrounding area. You can also find restaurants and craft shops on site.
17. Palenque
The archaeological site of Palenque is a jewel of the Mayan civilization and is located in the state of Chiapas. It was built between 226 and 799 AD and was abandoned at the end of the 10th century. The site includes many pyramids, palaces and temples, as well as stone inscriptions that have helped decipher many aspects of Maya culture. Palenque is considered one of the most important sites of the Mayan civilization and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
18. Bonampak
Bonampak is a Mayan archaeological site located in the jungle of Chiapas. It is famous for its well-preserved wall paintings which depict scenes of daily life, ceremonies and battles. The murals are notable for their realism and detail, and are considered one of the greatest artistic treasures of the Maya civilization. Bonampak is a small site, but worth a visit to admire the fascinating frescoes.
19. Sumidero Canyon
The Sumidero Canyon is an impressive gorge 1,000 meters deep carved by the Grijalva River in the state of Chiapas. The canyon is a spectacular natural wonder, with steep rock faces and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can take a boat for a scenic cruise along the river and admire the unique rock formations and wildlife such as crocodiles and howler monkeys. The Sumidero Canyon is a must-see place for all lovers of nature and wild beauty.
Baja California Peninsula
20. Arco de Cabo San Lucas
The Arco de Cabo San Lucas is a spectacular rock arch located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. This rock formation is one of the most iconic symbols of Mexico and is famous for its crystal clear waters and amazing geological formations. Visitors can take a boat to the arch and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs and rock formations.
21. Cabo Pulmo National Park
Located on the east coast of Baja California, Cabo Pulmo National Park is a protected marine reserve and one of the oldest in the region. It is famous for its huge coral reef, which is home to a wide variety of marine species, such as whale sharks, manta rays and sea turtles. Cabo Pulmo National Park is also an important breeding ground for fish of reef, making it an essential dive site.
Diving is the flagship activity of Cabo Pulmo National Park. The clear and crystalline waters of the park offer exceptional visibility up to 30 meters deep. Snorkeling and scuba diving are offered, as well as courses for beginners and guided excursions for advanced divers. The local guides know the coral reefs perfectly and are very attentive to the protection of the environment.
In addition to diving, Cabo Pulmo National Park also offers many other activities. Visitors can hike the surrounding mountains, through trails that offer spectacular ocean views. Boat trips are also offered to watch whales and dolphins.
22. Guadalupe Valley
Guadalupe Valley is a hidden gem in Baja California. It's located just a 90-minute drive from San Diego, California, and is considered Mexico's food and wine mecca. Visitors can discover vineyards, restaurants and luxurious accommodations.
The hot and dry climate of the region is ideal for growing grapes. Visitors can enjoy views of vineyards and mountains while tasting wine at one of the many wineries in the area. The most popular wineries are Monte Xanic, Adobe Guadalupe and Viña de Liceaga.
Guadalupe Valley also offers top quality cuisine. Visitors can enjoy delicious food at the local restaurants that serve traditional Mexican dishes as well as international dishes. The most popular restaurants are Finca Altozano, Corazón de Tierra and Laja.
For those wishing to extend their stay, the region also offers luxurious accommodation. Visitors can relax at boutique hotels like Encuentro Guadalupe, El Cielo Winery and Resort, and Villa del Valle.
23. Mexico City
Mexico City is the capital and largest city of Mexico. It is located in the Valley of Mexico, at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level. The city is known for its rich historical heritage, world-class cuisine and vibrant nightlife.
The Plaza de la Constitución, also known as the Zócalo, is one of the city's main attractions. It is located in the historic center of the city and is surrounded by emblematic buildings such as the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace.
Visitors can also check out the National Museum of Anthropology, which houses one of the largest collections of pre-Hispanic artifacts in the world. The museum is located in Chapultepec Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world.
Mexican cuisine is also a major attraction in Mexico City. Visitors can sample traditional dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and tamales at one of the many restaurants in town. The most popular restaurants are Pujol, Quintonil and Contramar.
24. Attend a Lucha Libre fight
If you're looking for a unique and exciting experience in Mexico City, don't miss a Lucha Libre fight. This form of Mexican wrestling, which features masked or costumed wrestlers, is hugely popular across the country, and the capital is one of the best places to see it in action.
The Lucha Libre show is very colorful and lively, with very elaborate costumes and masks and spectacular acrobatic movements. The fights are often very theatrical, with well-defined villains and heroes and stories that unfold throughout the evening. Spectators are also very involved, cheering on their favorites and booing the bad guys.
There are several Lucha Libre arenas in Mexico City, but the most famous is Arena Mexico, located in the Colonia Doctores neighborhood. Fights usually take place on Friday evening and Sunday afternoon, and tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door. It is recommended to arrive early to secure a place.
25. Listen to the mariachis
Mariachi music is one of Mexico's most iconic traditions, with its catchy melodies and poetic lyrics. The sound is produced by a group of musicians playing instruments such as guitar, trumpet and violin, and often accompanied by singing.
To hear authentic mariachi music, there's no better place than Plaza Garibaldi in Mexico City. This bustling square is the meeting point for mariachi musicians, who play live music throughout the day and night. Visitors can settle down in one of the many bars and restaurants in the square to enjoy the music while tasting local dishes.
26. Visit a local market
Mexico is famous for its bustling markets, which are full of handicrafts, souvenirs and local food. Markets are a great way to learn about Mexican culture and do some unique shopping.
The most famous market in Mexico City is the Ciudadela Market, which is found in the La Ciudadela district. This four-story market features handicrafts from across the country, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, masks, and carvings. The Ciudadela market is open every day of the week.
There are also many other interesting markets in Mexico City and throughout the country, such as the San Juan Market in Mexico City, which offers a wide variety of food products, the Bola Market in Guadalajara, which sells traditional clothing, and La Merced Market in Mexico City, which is one of the largest food markets in the world.
27. Teotihuacan
Located about 50 km north of Mexico City, Teotihuacan is an ancient pre-Hispanic city known for its impressive pyramids and intricate architecture. Visitors can discover the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon and the Temple of the Rain here, all of which are stunning examples of the ability of the ancient inhabitants to build monumental structures.
Teotihuacan is also famous for its murals and frescoes, which offer fascinating insight into daily life in the city over 2,000 years ago. Additionally, the city has a museum that houses thousands of artifacts from archaeological digs in the area.
To fully enjoy your visit to Teotihuacan, it is recommended that you leave early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat of the afternoon. It is also possible to take a hot air balloon flight to see the pyramids from the sky, which is an incredible and unforgettable experience.
28. Marietas Islands
Located off the Pacific coast of Mexico, the Marietas Islands are a popular destination for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The islands are known for their beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and abundant marine life.
Visitors can go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore coral reefs and schools of colorful fish. Dolphins and humpback whales are also frequently sighted in the waters around the Marietas Islands.
Additionally, the islands are home to a wide variety of seabirds, including red-footed boobies and brown pelicans. It is also possible to take a boat trip to visit the island's unique sea caves and rock formations.
29. Bucerias
Located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, Bucerias is a charming fishing village that offers an authentic and relaxing experience away from the hustle and bustle of the more touristy resorts. Bucerias is located just 20 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, making it an easily accessible destination.
The beaches of Bucerias are ideal for swimming and relaxing, with calm and shallow waters. Water sports enthusiasts can also practice surfing, paddle-boarding and kayaking. If you are looking to explore the area, nearby villages such as Sayulita and San Pancho are easily accessible by car.
One of the most popular attractions in Bucerias is the craft market, located in the city's main square. Here you will find a wide variety of local handicrafts, including clothing, jewelry, ceramics and carvings.
For food lovers, Bucerias offers a variety of local restaurants serving authentic Mexican dishes and fresh seafood. You can also find restaurants offering international cuisine.
Bucerias is also an excellent starting point for exploring the Riviera Nayarit region. You can discover the natural beauty of the region by visiting the Biosphere Reserve of the Marietas Islands, a natural paradise made up of white sand beaches, caves and rock formations. You can also venture into the mountains to visit the traditional villages of the region, such as Sayulita and San Pancho.
If you are looking for a quiet destination with an authentic atmosphere, Bucerias is a great option. Here you can spend relaxed days at the beach, explore the nearby villages and discover the cultural richness of the region.
30. Hierve El Agua
Hierve El Agua is a unique natural site located in the state of Oaxaca, in southern Mexico. This site is made up of spectacular rock formations that look like petrified waterfalls. They are actually mineral deposits that have been formed by the hot water flowing over the cliffs.
The mineral waters of Hierve El Agua have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries by local indigenous people. Today, this site is a popular spot for swimming, as well as taking in the spectacular views of the Oaxaca Valley.
To reach Hierve El Agua, you will need to drive for approximately 2 hours from Oaxaca City. The drive is an adventure in itself, with winding mountain roads that offer sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
Once there, you can walk on the plateaus that overlook the cliffs and enjoy the panoramic view of the valley. You can also swim in the natural mineral waters and relax in the sun. The natural pools are shallow, so it is possible to swim safely.
There are several hiking trails that start from Hierve El Agua that will allow you to further explore the area. The main hiking trail leads to a viewpoint where you can admire the petrified waterfalls up close.
In short, Hierve El Agua is a unique destination that offers an extraordinary natural and cultural experience. If you are passing through the Oaxaca region, do not hesitate to include Hierve El Agua in your itinerary.
31. Orizaba Peak
Orizaba Peak, also known as Citlaltépetl in the Nahuatl language, is the highest point in Mexico and the third highest peak in North America. Located in the state of Veracruz, it reaches an altitude of 5,636 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Pic d'Orizaba is a favorite spot for climbers and hikers looking for a physical challenge and spectacular scenery. The summit can be climbed by several different climbing routes, but some are more technical than others and require some experience.
The most popular route to reach the summit is the southern route, which begins at the town of Tlachichuca. This route is considered one of the easiest, but it still requires good physical shape and adequate preparation. Hikers should wear warm clothing and gear appropriate for the mountain climate, as temperatures can be very low even in summer.
The Peak of Orizaba is also surrounded by picturesque villages and beautiful natural landscapes, such as the Volcanoes Biosphere Reserve of the central area of Veracruz. Visitors can explore these surroundings by hiking, mountain biking or jeep tour.
If you wish to climb the Peak of Orizaba, it is recommended that you hire an experienced guide to help you prepare for your ascent and guide you on the most appropriate route depending on your level of fitness and experience. Local travel agencies offer tours to climb the summit, as well as to explore the surrounding area.
In sum, the Pic d'Orizaba is a challenge for mountaineers, but also a unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the region. If you are passionate about mountains and looking for an unforgettable experience in Mexico, the Peak of Orizaba is a must-see.
32. The Pyramid of Cholula
Located about 12 kilometers from the city of Puebla, the Pyramid of Cholula is an emblematic monument of Mexico. It is in fact the largest pyramid ever built in the world, measuring 400 meters on a side and 66 meters high. The pyramid was built by the ancient inhabitants of the city of Cholula, who made it their religious and cultural center.
The Cholula Pyramid is actually a complex of several pyramids built on top of each other over time. The original pyramid was built around 300 BC and has been expanded over the centuries by the different cultures that have inhabited the area. The last modifications were made by the Aztecs in the 15th century.
Today, the pyramid is an archaeological site open to the public. Visitors can explore the tunnels and halls of the pyramid, as well as the church which was built on top of the pyramid by the Spanish in the 16th century. The views from the top of the pyramid are spectacular, overlooking the city of Puebla and the volcanoes that surround it.
It is advisable to visit the Pyramid of Cholula early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat of the afternoon. Entrance fees are reasonable and include a guided tour. It is also possible to get to the pyramid using local public transport or by taxi from Puebla.
33. Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl National Park
Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl National Park is located about 60 kilometers southeast of Mexico City. The park is famous for its two volcanoes, Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl, which are visible from Mexico City on a clear day.
The park offers many activities for visitors, such as hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing and fishing. The hiking trails in the park are well marked and offer spectacular views of the volcanoes and the surrounding region.
The Popocatépetl volcano is still active, but it is closely monitored by local authorities and scientists. It is therefore possible to hike on the slopes of the volcano with an experienced guide. The views from the top of Popocatépetl are breathtaking, but it is important to respect the safety rules and follow the instructions of the guide.
It is recommended to visit the Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl National Park with a local guide or a travel agency specializing in outdoor activities. Visitors should also be aware of the high altitude of the region and take necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness.
34. La Peña de Bernal
La Peña de Bernal is an imposing mountain located in the small town of Bernal, in the state of Querétaro. It is considered the third largest monolith in the world, after the Rock of Gibraltar and Mount Sugarloaf in Brazil. This mountain is a place of pilgrimage for Mexicans who consider it sacred.
It is possible to hike to reach the top of the Peña de Bernal, which offers breathtaking views of the surroundings. The hike is quite difficult as it involves climbing rock-cut stairs and going through steep paths. However, the panoramic views of the area and the sense of accomplishment once at the top are worth it.
The town of Bernal is also charming with its colorful houses and cobbled streets. There are restaurants and shops selling local products, including woolen clothes and handicrafts.
35. Las Barrancas del Cobre
The Barrancas del Cobre, also known as the Copper Canyon, is a system of canyons located in the state of Chihuahua in northern Mexico. The canyon system is larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon in the United States and is a spectacular natural wonder.
The canyons are accessible via the Chihuahua Pacific Scenic Train, which traverses the rugged landscape offering breathtaking views of the canyons. The train ride passes through tunnels, bridges, and viaducts, and allows travelers to see native villages, deep gorges, waterfalls, and bizarre rock formations.
It is possible to hike, rock climb, and zipline through the canyons for a more adventurous experience. Travelers can also visit the villages of Tarahumara, an indigenous tribe that has lived in the canyons for centuries, to learn about their culture and way of life.
The top 35 in Mexico: the practical map
Now that we've covered the top 35 places to visit in Mexico, here's a handy map that summarizes all the destinations. The map can be useful for planning your travel route and for seeing where destinations are in relation to each other.
Going to Mexico: what if you go through a local agency?
For a stress-free and peace of mind trip to Mexico, it may be a good idea to go through a local travel agency. Local agencies have in-depth knowledge of the country and can help you plan your trip according to your interests and budget.
By using a local agency to organize your tours, you can have a more immersive and authentic travel experience. Local agencies can offer you personalized tour options to suit your needs and interests. For example, you could opt for a gastronomic tour to discover Mexican culinary specialties, or a cultural tour to learn more about local traditions and customs.
Local agencies can also help you book tickets for special events or performances, such as folk ballet performances, cultural festivals or live music concerts. They can also provide you with information on local events going on during your stay to help you get the most out of your trip.
Finally, by using the services of a local agency, you can have the peace of mind of knowing that you have support in case of an emergency. Local agencies can offer assistance with health or safety concerns, or help you find a doctor or hospital if needed. They can also provide you with information on entry formalities and visa requirements, as well as rules of conduct and local regulations.
In summary, by using the services of a local agency, you can have a more personalized and authentic travel experience, as well as assistance in the event of an emergency. Local agencies can help arrange tours, activities, and cultural experiences to give you a deeper insight into life in Mexico. So do not hesitate to contact a local agency to plan your next trip to this wonderful country.
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