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25 Top Tourist Attractions in Mexico

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Mexico is one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations with over 20 million foreign visitors a year. Famous for its tequila, the Aztecs and the Mayas , Salma Hayek, Day of the Dead, drug wars, Lucha libre, Corona beer and the beach resorts on the Pacific and Caribbean side, Mexico can offer something for every sort of traveler.

From Pre-Columbian ruins and historic colonial towns to white powdery beaches and huge canyons, this country offers visitors a wide range of things to do. For ideas on the best places to visit check out our list of the top tourist attractions in Mexico.

25. Monte Alban

Monte Alban, or White Mountain, was once the ancient capital of the Zapotec people. Overlooking the Valley of Oaxaca, Monte Alban is one of the top archeological sites in Mexico. In addition to spectacular views over the valley, visitors will be able to see the ruined buildings around a broad, flat hilltop terrace, the Gran Plaza, that runs north to south.

Two large pyramid mounds terminate the great plaza at the ends, and the sides of the space are lined with stepped platforms and terraces.

24. San Miguel de Allende

In the Bajio mountains of Central Mexico, there is a small colonial destination known as San Miguel de Allende. The city is bursting with history: It was founded by a San Franciscan Monk, played a big role in the war for Mexican independence from Spain and was a vital spot on the Mexican silver trail.

Today, it is best known for its colonial architecture and enchanting cobblestone streets. Historic buildings like the pink Teatro Angela Peralta and the Santuario de Atotonilco, an enormous church complex, are among the top attractions in the city.

23. Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve

The annual Monarch butterfly migration is one of nature’s great spectacles and a top attraction for visitors to Mexico’s central highlands. Each year, millions of Monarch Butterflies make the journey from eastern Canada to the forests of western central Mexico, a journey that spans up to 3,000 miles.

The Monarch butterflies spend their winter hibernation clustered in small areas of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Michoacan, before they travel to the north again.

22. Great Pyramid of Cholula

Outside of Puebla is the Great Pyramid of Cholula, an archeological site that is home to the largest pyramid in the world. Also known as Tlachihualtepetl, the Great Pyramid of Cholula was built in four stages, the first of which began 2,300 years ago. Much of the pyramid is now overgrown though and appears to be a natural hill topped by a Catholic church.

This is the “Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios” which was built by the Spanish in 1594. Visitors are able to tour more than four miles of underground tunnels that showcase the sheer size and scope of this incredible landmark.

21. El Malecon

The boardwalk in Puerto Vallarta , also known as El Malecon, is a marvelous seaside promenade that border the blue waters of the Pacific. Most of El Malecon is exclusively for pedestrians, making it a safe place to take photos and admire the view.

Statues line the boardwalk, there are often elaborate sand displays on the beach, and there are also countless local establishments that cater to visitors. It is possible to stroll along El Malecon and stop for handmade souvenirs, some fresh seafood or a few tropical drinks at a local bar.

The ancient Mayan city of Uxmal is one of the most historically and culturally significant attractions in Mexico. Roughly 55 km (35 miles) south of Merida in Yucatan, the city was constructed primarily in the ninth century. Uxmal was once the capital of the region, and it is a prime example of Puuc architecture.

Various stone levels, along with elaborate stonework, gives the pyramid structures a grand appearance. Not to be missed is the Magician’s Pyramid, the tallest of the pyramids at Uxmal.

19. Zipolite

Along the Pacific Coast in the Oaxaca region is Zipolite, a one-mile beach that retains a progressive, hippie vibe. In decades past, Zipolite was a nude beach, although that is far less common today.

Zipolite attracts travelers in search of a counter-culture vibe, and it still retains an authentic Mexican atmosphere despite the tourists from all around the world. While the beach itself is the main attraction, Zipolite is also well known for Av Roca Blanca, a street just off the beach that offers bars, shops and cafes.

18. Museo Nacional de Antropologia

The Museo Nacional de Antropologia, or National Museum of Anthropology, is both the largest and most visited museum in all of Mexico. Located in Mexico City’s Chapultepec Park, the museum boasts an enormous collection of artifacts and exhibits relating to the pre-Columbian heritage of the country. This includes Mayan and Aztec pieces, such as the famed Stone of the Sun, which is the original Aztec calendar stone.

17. El Tajin

El Tajín was an important gulf coast city, founded by the Classic Veracruz culture. Most of the buildings at the site were constructed between 600 – 900 AD. Surrounded by the green jungle, these ruins are believed to have been the political and administrative center of the entire civilization.

Today, visitors can see more than 150 identified buildings, although just a dozen are restored and open to the public at any given time. Of note is the Pyramid of Niches, the most impressive structure at the site.

16. San Ignacio Lagoon

There are several places to go whale watching in Mexico, but none is so spectacular than San Ignacio Lagoon. Located off the coast of Baja California Sur, the lagoon is the winter home to a number of Eastern Pacific gray whales.

During the winter months, gray whales come to give birth in the shallowest parts of the lagoon. San Ignacio Lagoon is now Latin America’s largest wildlife sanctuary, and there are many guided boat tours that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the gray whales.

15. Bonampak Murals

Bonampak is an ancient archeological site in the state of Chiapas. While there are many Mayan structures at Bonampak worth exploring, the most famous is the Temple of Murals. This temple is where the Bonampak Murals can be found, a collection of ancient art that helps explain the history and culture of the Mayans. Hundreds of figures were painted in three different rooms, each of which tells a part of a narrative in bold turquoise, red and yellow hues.

14. Isla Mujeres

Surrounded by the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, just eight miles from Cancun , is Isla Mujeres. This island is a hotspot today, but it also has significance for the region’s cultural heritage. Isla Mujeres, which translates to the island of women, was sacred to the Mayan goddess of childbirth.

Today, travelers arrive by ferry from Cancun to relax on the scenic beaches, visit the local turtle farm, scuba dive or snorkel in the clear waters or just relax away from the Cancun beach crowds.

See also: Where to Stay in Cancun

13. Santa Prisca Church in Taxco

El Templo de Santa Prisca, or the Santa Prisca Church, is a magnificent Baroque structure located in the city of Taxco . Built in the 18th century, the church is a colonial landmark that was commissioned by a prosperous Spanish mine owner.

Made from pink stone, boasting large twin towers and decorated with tiles, this is an ornate monument that no architecture enthusiast would want to miss. Inside, nine enormous altarpieces stretch from the floor to the ceiling, and each is covered in gold.

12. Acapulco Cliff Divers

Acapulco is the original Mexican resort town which came into prominence by the 1950s as a getaway for Hollywood stars and millionaires. No visit to Acapulco is complete without watching the cliff divers perform their impressive jumps into ocean.

They have been doing it since the 1930s, although today the divers are professionals. You can see the dives from a small platform by the cliff for a small entrance fee, or eat at the La Perla restaurant which offers a good view of the divers.

11. Cenote Dos Ojos

Just outside of Tulum is Cenote Dos Ojos, one of the country’s largest underwater cave systems. The name means the cavern of two eyes, referring to the two sinkholes connected by a long passageway.

The water in the caverns is filtered through limestone, making it exceptionally clear. As a result, Cenote Dos Ojos is wildly popular with both snorkelers and more serious scuba divers, some of whom head deep into the underwater cavern.

10. Catedral Metropolitana

There is no shortage of things to do, see and explore in Mexico City, but a top attraction is unquestionably the Catedral Metropolitana. It is the oldest and the largest cathedral in Latin America, and the 16th century structure dominates the city’s central plaza, known as the Zocalo.

The architecture is a blend of styles, including heavy influences from baroque and Mexican churrigueresque design. In addition to the architecture, the Catedral Metropolitana boasts an extensive art collection as well as catacombs beneath the main structure.

See also: Where to Stay in Mexico City

9. Guanajuato

Nestled in the mountains of the Sierra de Guanajuato lies the beautiful colonial city of Guanajuato . The city was founded in 1554 next to one of the richest silver mining areas of Mexico. The 16th-century mining boom led to the construction of beautiful haciendas and fine colonial buildings.

Guanajuato streets and many colorful alleyways spread out in every direction while most of its traffic is served by a network of underground tunnels making it an excellent city for pedestrians.

8. Dias des los Muertos, Oaxaca

The city of Oaxaca is well-known for having one of the best Dia de Los Muertos festivals in Mexico, a holiday celebrated in many parts of Latin America. In Mexico the festival can be traced back thousands of years ago to indigenous cultures such as the Zapotec and Aztec.

In Oaxaca the Day of the Dead Festival starts at the end of October when families prepare the tombs for the return of the spirits. During this time tombs and home altars are decorated with flowers and families leave offerings for the spirits in the cemeteries.

Located just off the Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel is a popular destinations for scuba diving and snorkeling. The underwater world around Cozumel was discovered by Jacques Cousteau in 1959 who called it one of the best diving areas in the world. Since that time Cozumel has become a National Marine Park to protect the delicate balance of it’s beautiful coral reefs and amazing variety of tropical fish.

El Arco is an incredible arch found in Cabo San Lucas . This unique rock formation marks the spot where the Pacific Ocean becomes the Gulf of California. The arch has become an icon of Cabo San Lucas, and it can be viewed from several angles.

A stroll along the beach gives the opportunity for amazing pictures of El Arco, not to mention views of the blue waters, the gray whales that frequently frolic in the ocean and additional rock formations along the coastline.

5. Palenque

Palenque is an archaeological site that was located on the western edge of the Maya empire in the present-day state of Chiapas, Mexico . Palenque is much smaller than some of its Mayan neighbor cities, but it contains some of the finest architecture and sculptures the Maya ever produced. Most structures in Palenque date from about 600 AD to 800 AD including the Temple of Inscriptions, the only Mesoamerican pyramid built as a funerary monument.

4. Copper Canyon

The Copper Canyon is in fact a network of canyons which together are several times larger than the Grand Canyon. The most popular way to explore the Copper Canyon is on the “Chihuahua al Pacifico” Railway. The track passes over 37 bridges and through 86 tunnels, rising as high as 2,400 meter (7,900 feet) above sea level featuring spectacular views of the canyons below.

Tulum is situated on the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It once served as the major port of the Mayan city of Coba. Tulum was built around 1200 AD when the Mayan civilization was already in decline and therefore lacks the elegance of some other famous sites.

The tropical beach backdrop however makes this a stunning top attraction which should not be missed. Accommodation in Tulum can range from simple cabanas to 5 star luxury resorts.

2. Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is the largest of the Maya cities in the Yucatan Peninsula and one of Mexico’s most visited tourist destinations. The most famous landmark of Chichen Itza is the temple-pyramid of El Castillo. The design of the temple has special astronomical significance.

Each face of the pyramid has a stairway with 91 steps, which together with the shared step at the top, add up to 365, the number of days in a year. Other highlights of Chichen Itza include the Great Ballcourt and El Caracol, a circular temple which served as an astronomical observatory.

1. Teotihuacan

In the 2nd century BC a new civilization arose in the valley of Mexico. This civilization built the flourishing metropolis of Teotihuacán and it’s huge pyramids. The Pyramid of the Sun was built around 100 AD and is the largest pyramid in Teotihuacán and all of Mexico. The construction of the smaller Pyramid of the Moon started a century later and was finished in 450 AD.

Seven centuries after the demise of the Teotihuacán empire the pyramids were honored and utilized by the Aztecs and became a place of pilgrimage. Mesoamerica’s greatest city is just 31 miles (50km) northeast of Mexico City and can be reached by bus or taxi.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Mexico

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Reader interactions.

June 17, 2019 at 2:08 pm

Acapulco with all its problems is still absolutely gorgeous and always has been. It’s ashamed they don’t protect it more.

February 5, 2017 at 7:41 pm

Monarch butterfly is pretty good place to visit mostly during February and March

August 22, 2016 at 9:21 am

We just went this summer to Teotihuacan, it was awesome!!! We have been to Mexico 5 times in the last 15 years but this is the first time we have gone anywhere besides visiting my husband’s family. We need to see some of these other places also someday!!!

March 31, 2016 at 1:41 pm

Don’t forget Uxmal ruins, much more beautiful than Chichen Itza in my opinion.

October 28, 2014 at 8:59 pm

What about Guadalajara?!

March 17, 2014 at 1:51 pm

This is a great list of attractions in Mexico. Those who are visiting should consider trying to visit at least a couple of these during their vacation.

February 26, 2013 at 11:41 pm

Attractive Pictures, makes one feel like Catching a Plane immediately to few destinations as above. Good Luck to the people from Touropia who made the research. Thanks and best regards. Raj

January 23, 2013 at 2:42 pm

Excellent research! This is a wonderful resource for travellers to the region.

November 13, 2012 at 3:51 pm

Nice job on the tourist attractions! They are beautiful and acurrately correct. This also helped me very much on my project about Mexico. So thank you so so so much!!!!!!!!!! The only flaw is the paragraph about Palenque because where it says Palenque is much smaller than it Mayan neighbor cities, “it” is supposed it’s.

August 19, 2012 at 4:50 pm

Guanajuato is really an amazing little city, happy to see it made the list!

January 31, 2012 at 12:40 pm

Chichen Itza is a beautiful place ! I was there viewing the temple pyramid . It is amazing ! You should visit , xoxo Day Day

August 31, 2011 at 12:53 pm

Acapulco and Tulum have beautiful beaches. I was there watching the cliff divers jump into the see. Awesome. But cozumel will make you fall in love with the underwater.

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The 27 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

By Scarlett Lindeman

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

Read our complete Mexico City travel guide here .

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

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

Colonia Juárez Arrow

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

Luis Barragán House and Studio Arrow

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

Gran Hotel Ciudad de México Arrow

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

El Moro Churerría Arrow

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

Kaitlin Menza

Matt Ortile

Kelsey Glennon

Floating Gardens of Xochimilco Arrow

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

Palacio Nacional Arrow

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

Templo Mayor Arrow

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

Museo Frida Kahlo Arrow

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

Sculpture Garden at the Museo Universitario Arte Contemporáneo Arrow

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

Mercado Jamaica Arrow

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

Monumento a la Revolución Arrow

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

Omusubi House Arrow

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

Cárcamo de Dolores Arrow

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

Eat Like a Local Arrow

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

Museo Jumex Arrow

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

Self-Guided Centro Historico Cantina Crawl Arrow

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

Lucha Libre at the Arena Coliseo Arrow

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

Teotihuacán Arrow

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

The Centro Zocalo Historico Bodealores   Arrow

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

Museo Anahuacalli Arrow

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

Patrick Miller Arrow

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

Museo Nacional de Antropología Arrow

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

Plaza Garibaldi Arrow

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

Torre Latinoamericana Arrow

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

Salón San Luis Arrow

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

Iglesia San Ignacio de Loyola Arrow

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

La Rifa Chocolateria Arrow

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

Ahuehuete Arrow

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

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The best things to do in Mexico: 19 unmissable experiences

Oct 7, 2023 • 14 min read

Get to know the country with these top things to do in Mexico, from visiting ancient pyramids to swimming in underground cenotes © Oleh_Slobodeniuk / Getty Images

Mexico is a wonderland. One moment, you're sipping smoky mezcal, and the next you're floating in the bluest of natural pools or being serenaded by mariachi singers while Frida Kahlo peers down from a mural.

Things feel even more fantastic when you find the tastiest food while discovering plumed serpents, pyramids and millennia of history around the next corner. No matter how many times you visit, Mexico 's stunning nature and its vibrant towns let you find an everyday life steeped in surrealism, natural wonders and incredible history.

Here are the best things to do in Mexico.

1. Admire the monumental power of a pyramid

Pyramids humble you. Gaze skywards at the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacán , and it’s easy to feel tiny. It’s the third-largest ancient pyramid in the world, bringing the ancient priests closer to the heavens at its summit. No wonder the pyramids at Teotihuacán were chosen as temples for human sacrifices to the gods.

The Aztecs did the same at the fascinating Templo Mayor at the heart of their empire, Tenochtitlán, modern-day Mexico City.

Other pre-Hispanic civilizations, such as the engineering Maya, constructed pyramids to also be the center of public life. At Chichén Itzá and Palenque , they buried their powerful leaders inside them and used the monumental structures, which push above the forest canopy, to navigate their lands.

Similarly, in Tulum a Maya pyramid squats over the turquoise waters and was used as a lighthouse.

Yet Mexico has even mightier pyramid, the largest by volume in the world. The Pirámide Tepanapa is bigger than the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt. Outside, it looks like a grassy hill, which fooled the Spanish conquistadors, sparing its destruction. Inside, it takes 15 minutes to walk through the cool tunnels crossing through the Pyramid of Cholula. With each tight turn, you feel minuscule.

2. Learn about Mexico's artisan traditions

Gorgeous Mexican artesanías (handicrafts) charm you with their sweetness. When you hold up a piece at a workshop, you are also grasping centuries of skill and traditions.

A psychedelic beadwork mask might leap out at you. The pulsing colors carry on the mythology of the Huichol of Jalisco. Or look into Taxco silverware, which shimmers with history, first as silver gifts to Aztec gods and then ransacked for Spanish pockets.

The kaleidoscopic work of generations of embroiderers, pre-Hispanic weavers, Oaxacan potters and metalsmiths tells Mexico's diverse story. Pick up a piece from an artisan to contribute to their stories.

3. Cycle Mexico City’s leafy neighborhoods

Bike lanes are plentiful across some of  Mexico City's best neighborhoods , including Condesa, Roma and artsy Coyoacán. Archways of trees guide you down streets lined with elegantly tiled houses and boutique stores. Parks are alive with young families or teenagers practicing dance moves, while around their edges, the well-dressed lounge about at cafes.

Planning tip: Join Mexico City's free Sunday bike rides , when the main avenues of the country’s capital turn into a car-free zone. Cyclists go for pleasure rides, and you can be part of the action at any time with a free or low-cost bike rental.

4. Learn to dance the salsa and  danzón

Mexicans have the music in them, and just trying to dance is a part of the Mexico experience. Dressed in hats and heels or casual clothes, couples take to the outdoor Plaza Ciudadela in Mexico City every Saturday to dance, mingle, and learn to salsa and do the danzón .

It’s open to the public, but if you need some courage, there are also bars around town to learn to dance for the cost of a tequila. Mama Rumba turns out a show with its live big band. 

Planning tip:  If you want to seriously move, Salón de Bailes Los Ángeles is part school, part legendary venue. It's where stars of Mexico’s Golden Age of cinema, such as Cantinflas and María Félix, went to boogie.

5. Float in subterranean cenotes

To the Maya, cenotes were a portal to speak to the gods, so they built villages around them. For a visitor today, cenotes, natural limestone swimming holes , are wondrous hidden pools to cool off in the jungle. Cenotes are created by the collapse of porous limestone bedrock, forming pools that are filtered to crystal clarity. The majority of cenotes are found in the  Yucatán Peninsula .

Underwater photographers, cavers and snorkelers revel in the clear cenotes, as do swimmers who want a peaceful swim shielded by the glorious tree canopy.

Unlike seawater, the turquoise water in cenotes is fresh and wonderfully mineral-rich. Floating in these still waters feels like slipping into prehistory. Look up at the columns of vines and the shafts of sunlight drifting through. Hummingbirds zigzag by, and it seems like little has changed since the Maya were here.

Planning tip: Take cash to pay entrance fees, plus a day-pack with all your supplies, including shoes you can get wet to protect your feet and reef-friendly chemical-free sunscreen. 

6. Eat your fill of Mexican street food

Want to know where to get the best tacos? It’s not in a white-tablecloth restaurant. It's on the street.

There is something special about feeling the red-hot embers on the pyramid of chargrilling pork that makes tacos al pastor tastier at places like El Vilsito . It could be the sizzling hot plate that gives handmade quesadillas stuffed with zucchini flowers or nopales (cactus) the perfect bite. Or the tubs of self-serve salsas that make sopes (tortillas sprinkled with white panela cheese and lettuce) and tlacoyos (diamond-shaped blue-corn parcels of beans and meat) much feistier (and tastier) than you had intended. It’s definitely the freshly cut limes and impromptu chats that give eating Mexican street food that extra zing.

Mexican foodie capital Oaxaca squeezes some of the best street food into market stands at Mercado 20 de Noviembre , or check out Los Cucuyos and vegan eats at  Por Siempre Vegana Taquería in Mexico City.

Local tip:  To find the freshest and tastiest street food, pause at a stand and observe. The best have a hissing comal (hot plate) where even the smoke smells alluring.

7. Glide along the canals of floating Aztec gardens in Xochimilco

Xochimilco , south of Mexico City, is the only remaining part of the country's pre-Hispanic waterways. Colorful wooden trajinera boats glide across the canals, passing chinampas (floating gardens). Fruits, vegetables and flowers grow atop garden beds constructed from reeds.

More than 500 years ago, the mighty Aztec city of Tenochtitlán ruled from an island in interconnected lakes. The Aztecs balanced a complex system of brackish and fresh water. As you float by, imagine Xochimilco in Aztec times, with gardeners tending to the plots of green bean vines, furry purple amaranth, and plump chilis and tomatoes to feed the city, as they still do today.

8. Sip artisanal mezcal

Mezcal is a smoky, rich elixir drunk in warmly lit bars by dreamers, artists and the heartbroken. The older sibling of fast-living tequila, mezcal is distilled from the same agave plant but is hand-roasted under volcanic rocks. For a long time, visitors to towns in Oaxaca would smuggle back flasks of the potent stuff from mom-and-pop farms.

Now mezcal has hit the heights in the cities, and small artisanal distillers are revered in mezcalaría bars like Mexico City's hidden Bósforo and Mano Santa with its tasting flight of drinks. You can learn all about the agave drinks at Museo del Tequila y el Mezcal in the capital.

Most mezcal is created in small batches and available only in Mexico. Artisanal producers with further reach are the upmarket and impressive Los Danzantes . Oaxaca is the capital of mezcal. 

Local tip:  A perfect mezcal day starts with a guided distillery visit, taking you through the process of slow cooking the agave piñas (hearts) in a volcanic rock pit with the smell of roasting catching the air. Continue at one of the many tasting rooms. Drink the traditional way with a slice of orange sprinkled with sal de gusano (agave worm salt with mild chili) on the side. 

9. Experience a 3000-year-old temascal ceremony

A temascal is more than a sauna; it’s an ancient Maya-Zapotec ritual that uses 3000 years of indigenous cultural knowledge as medicine. A shaman guides you through a ceremony inside a dome while you sit in a circle, giving you the kind of experience that people swear is life-changing.

In the semi-darkness, the shaman throws an herbal infusion sizzling on the pit of hot rocks at the center. The dialogue begins between the shaman and other participants, thanking the earth and acknowledging our connection to the villages of animals and nature. Sometimes the guide intones words in the indigenous Náhuatl language.

This is no touchy-feely session. Warriors endured this ritual before battle to steel them. After 90 minutes of building resilience and releasing toxins, both physical and mental, you emerge and dip into cold pools, cleansing yourself. 

Planning tip:  For a real temascal experience (not just a sauna), follow spirituality seekers to Tepotzlán  or get the full picture of the Zapotec civilization in Oaxaca. We love Xquenda in Huatulco for its full pre-Hispanic ceremony and mural.

10. Tap into the songs of Mexico with a mariachi performance

Mariachi bands have a song for every mood and life milestone. Happy? More trumpet. Somber? More strings and a heartfelt bolero style. Mexicans hire these singing troupes for big events, including birthdays, weddings and funerals. They are not a mere tourist attraction but a way to tap into the songs of Mexico. You’ll find them roaming around major plazas from Mérida to Cuernavaca.

A top choice is Mexico City’s Plaza Garibaldi , which has been bringing together restaurants and music since 1925. Get serenaded in mariachi's heartland in Guadalajara , which holds the world's largest mariachi festival each September at the Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y la Charreria .

11. Get insight into Frida Kahlo’s artistic life

Bottles filled with paint glisten in their tray next to an easel. It feels like the artist has just stepped out.   Handicrafts – clay fertility figures, papier-mâché skeletons and dangling cherubs – from across Mexico sprawl out across the rooms.

The  Blue House  is where Frida was born, lived and spent her last days, with everything as she left it. The artist’s silver jewelry, short bed, crutches, wheelchair and prosthetic leg are here. Kahlo had a lifelong disability and channeled her physical and emotional pain into her art while showcasing pre-Hispanic art and traditions.

Kahlo famously wore traditional dresses and shawls from Oaxaca to summon the female power of the women of her mother’s hometown. Mexico City has other interesting places to find Frida  and trace her life. But to stand in her house and its courtyard of volcanic stone is to feel her passion for Mexico and its people. This museum is an unmissable insight into her life and her art.

12. Travel through Mexican history at a museum

Mexico City alone has more than 150 museums, beating New York City and Paris. Some of them are makeshift and obscure – torture museum , anyone? – but all of Mexico's history can be found in its museums, from indigenous handicrafts to revolution , human rights and tequila .

The headline act is Museo Nacional de Antropología , which is one of the best in the world, with a dramatic giant water feature at the center of its Maya-inspired courtyard. 

Mexico's top male painters are known as the "big three" muralists. Made to be seen by the average Mexican worker, murals by Diego Rivera , José Clemente Orozco and David Siqueiros grace many public buildings. All three daub the patio walls of Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso and inside the splendid Palacio de Bellas Artes , notably Diego Rivera’s monumental El hombre en el cruce de caminos (Man at the Crossroads). 

Other museums cater to specific tastes, like the Museo del Calzado shoe museum, which displays the trainers of Mexican fútbol heroes and replicas of Neil Armstrong’s lunar boot.

13. Mark Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)

Once a year, the spirits of the dearly departed can follow a path of marigold petals back to their loved ones. Altars are piled with their favorite dishes and objects, and photos of the deceased are lit by candlelight and shrouded in incense smoke.

Far from a withdrawn sad time, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a time of remembrance through joy. It’s been this way for more than 3000 years, and the tradition can be traced back to Aztec customs and the even more ancient Olmecs.

Visit Mexico at the end of October, and you’ll see the nights turn festive as people crowd the squares, with businesses and museums to judge the best-decorated altars. In towns like Naolinco, Pátzcuaro and Mixquic, mass processions drift to the cemeteries for a night of drinking and singing.

Local tip:  Tagging along at a respectful distance is accepted, and the sight of thousands of candles and marigold flowers glowing orange into the night is a true Mexico experience.

14. Devour some mole

Of all the attention-grabbing Mexican dishes, mole is the most intriguing for its complex mix of herbs and spices. Cocoa and three kinds of chilis give the sauce a chocolatey warmth, but mole contains a checklist of more than 15 ingredients, including sesame seeds, aromatic herbs, peanuts and cumin. In Puebla , it is eaten in restaurants tiled in hand-painted blue talavera .

Planning tip:  Oaxaca is known for its seven multicolored moles . The star is mole negro , a smoky "black" sauce that differentiates itself with a hit of hoja santa  or "sacred leaf," which tastes somewhere deliciously between licorice and eucalyptus. Mole is best smothered over chicken or enchiladas (tortillas filled with cheese or chicken).

15. Experience everyday Mexican life in a market

Boisterous piñatas dangle above you. Flowers and mangos perfume the air, while fat sacks of spices and mounds of dried chilis beckon you.

On a balmy day, the cool of a Mexican market is an inviting wonderland of fruit salad stands, old-world barber shops, and storekeepers touting woven baskets and Virgin candles. A mercado (market) is where everyday Mexican life happens without the airs and graces, no matter if you’re in an upmarket neighborhood or a mountain village.

In one market, you might smell wafts of incense floating on the air and pork crackling glistening under heat lamps. Eat alongside families or get nuts and chili-lime grasshoppers for the road. Taste delicious Mexican fruit like honey-almond flavored mamey  and tuna (prickly pear fruit) blended into juice. Every walk through a Mexican market is an adventure.

16. Learn history through botany in Oaxaca

History is palpable at the Jardín Etnobotánico . You can stain your hands bright red with cochineal from the prickly pear cactus. At its height, the smooshed-bug blood was used to dye garments for Europe’s elite, giving the Spaniards wealth second only to silver.

The storyteller guides at the garden explain how indigenous people used plants for clothing, shelter, food, rituals and medicine. A fascinating story brings to life Maya mythology, which saw the ceiba tree as the universe itself, with its roots in the underworld and the peculiar thorns on the trunk representing the people.

17. Visit a magic town

Mexico has more than 132 pueblos mágicos , and they truly feel like "magic towns." In each place, you can experience the beauty of traditional Mexican life.

Many of the towns have a leafy zócalo piazza or square at their center where families and lovers laugh, whisper and enjoy a weekend or long summer evening outdoors. What makes them "magical" is not just that they’re lookers – most are – but they maintain some natural or historical charm.

For example, in Taxco, where silver was mined by the Aztecs and Spaniards, all-white retro VW taxis crisscross its cobblestones. In lovely Papantla, people come for the spectacle of seeing the voladores whirl around a maypole, attached only by their feet.

18. Lounge on beaches without the crowds

If you want to swim alongside Mexicans, not just tourists, head to the coast of Oaxaca. Huatulco has 36 golden-sand beaches to enjoy in peace. In Puerto Escondido,  Playa Carrizalillo beach is a jewel in a sheltered cove, reached by steep steps to deter most tourists.

Maybe it just has to be the Yucatán Peninsula's Riviera Maya. We get it: the clear blue ribbon of water and white sand is enticing, and you can still escape the crowds.

If you’re stuck in the overdeveloped parts of Cancún and Tulum , follow the locals to a spacious public beach. At Playa del Carmen , the beach runs adjacent to "5th Avenue," where all prices are in US dollars, yet step a mere two blocks back from the souvenir strip, and life seems preserved from another era. Eat at an unpretentious garden restaurant, drink at a wooden shack bar and stroll across squeaky sand into the warm arms of the Caribbean.

19. Enjoy a steaming hot tortilla at a tortillería

One of Mexico's simplest pleasures is hearing the squeak of a neighborhood tortillería (tortilla maker). Mesoamericans unlocked the secret of nixtamalization more than 3500 years ago, ramping up the nutrition and turning corn into tortillas. For passersby, the magic is seeing the steaming hot tortillas parade down the conveyor belt before being bundled up in paper for a waiting line of locals. Most neighborhoods have  tortillerías every few blocks.

Planning tip:  You can count on a mercado (fresh produce market) to have at least one tortillería  on the streets immediately around it, such as Mexico City's  Mercado Medellín , where you'll find several.

This article was first published Sep 7, 2021 and updated Oct 7, 2023.

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Mexico

Northern England Writer

Whether you want to stick to the lush jungle backdrop of the humid Yucatán Peninsula, make your way to the beautiful beaches of Baja California, check out some natural wonders in Oaxaca, or just explore culture in the capital Mexico City, you’ll never be short of things to do. Mexico is full of must-visit attractions – here are the top 20.

1. la catedral metropolitana, mexico city.

Cathedral, Museum

2. Teotihuacán, State of Mexico

Historical Landmark, Archaeological site, Ruins

Less than an hour’s bus ride away from Mexico City lies the mysterious archaeological site of Teotihuacán , which was supposedly inhabited by a multicultural society (not the Aztecs!), of which little is known to this day. Climb the two main Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, and wander the Calzada de los Muertos, but remember to pack sunblock and water.

3. The beaches of Tulum, Quintana Roo

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark

We hop over to the Caribbean coastline now, with a visit to the cool town where you can find some of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches – Tulum. Somewhat of a tourist trap in recent years, there is still an excellent dining scene and one of the most jaw-droppingly beautiful coastlines in the country, all white sand and tranquil turquoise waters ideal for swimming.

4. Cenotes, Yucatán Peninsula

Natural Feature

It’s impossible to select just one cenote that you must see while you’re on the Yucatán Peninsula, because the place is literally full of them. However, there are some reputable big names that you might be interested in, such as Dos Ojos just outside the aforementioned Tulum, or the intriguingly named Carwash. Alternatively, take a dip in Ox Bel Ha, the world’s largest underground cave system .

5. Las Pozas, San Luis Potosí

Architectural Landmark

Mexico is often touted as an intensely surrealist country, and given the number of world famous (and even underrated) surrealist artists this North American powerhouse has produced, it’s not hard to believe. However, Mexico doesn’t get more surreal than the British eccentric Edward James’ magnificent and bizarre sculpture park Las Pozas , set deep in the heart of the San Luis Potosí rainforest.

6. Horno3, Monterrey

7. Nevado de Toluca, State of Mexico

8. las coloradas, yucatán.

An Instagrammer’s dream location is the best way to describe the fascinating phenomenon of Yucatán’s pink salt lakes. Yes, you read that right. Las Coloradas are strikingly pink pools that you can find in a tiny Mexican fishing village, close to Mérida. While taking a dip is now sadly off limits, you can still wander round the edge and soak up the wonderful weirdness of it all for yourself.

9. Museo Nacional de Antropología, Mexico City

10. Playa del Amor, Baja California

If you thought that Mexico’s Caribbean coastline was the only place you could find a decent beach, then you clearly forgot about the Baja Peninsula. Now best known for the northern border city of Tijuana and the southern celebrity haven of Los Cabos, it’s also home to Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach). A sure-fire bucket list beach, even for the sand-a-phobes among you, it rather amusingly borders Divorce Beach. Seriously.

11. Barranca del Cobre, Chihuahua

Natural Feature, Hiking Trail

12. Coyoacán, Mexico City

13. agua azul, chiapas.

Perhaps the best-known waterfall in Mexico , Chiapas’ Agua Azul is a major tourist destination and often visited as part of a set tour that will also take you to several fascinating spots like the archaeological ruins of Palenque and the Misol-Ha waterfall. Over-commercialized or not, it’s hard to deny the magnificence of these dazzlingly blue rapids that cascade for miles, collecting in small bathing pools along the way.

14. Pípila, Guanajuato

You may well have stumbled across a photo or two of colonial Guanajuato at one point or another, given that it’s one of Mexico’s most emblematic tourist destinations. However, while the cobbled streets, colourful buildings and subterranean passages are all lovely in their own right, you must scale the hill to the Pípila monument and enjoy the 360-degree panoramic views over the entire town.

15. Mina El Eden, Zacatecas

One of Mexico’s most underrated destinations is also the home to one of the country’s coolest attractions – Mina El Eden (Eden Mine). You might be wondering what’s so special about a mine, but that’s only because you’ve never come across one that’s also a bar. Yes, in Zacatecas you can take a ride on the cable car, explore the mine by day and return at night for a quick drink in an unforgettable location .

16. Tequila, Jalisco

17. isla janitzio, michoacán.

Alongside Oaxaca and Mixquic, Mexico City, Isla Janitzio is the place to celebrate the fascinating Mexican tradition of Day of the Dead . A small island within Lake Pátzcuaro in the troubled state of Michoacán, Janitzio comes alive at the start of November, as residents and tourists crowd onto the island to pay their respects for the dead and enjoy the magical atmosphere of the unique celebration.

18. Islas Marietas, Nayarit

Las Islas Marietas were temporarily closed in recent years due to the high numbers of tourists that traveled to these tiny and fragile islands, famed for their hidden beach and wealth of flora and fauna. Nowadays, they’re open for business, although there are limited numbers allowed to access the islands each day. So, should you get the chance to go, grab it with both hands, and prepare for an unforgettable experience.

19. Chichen Itzá, Yucatán

Archaeological site

Finally, how could we not mention Chichén Itzá , one of the seven wonders of the modern world? Sure, some believe it to be overrated and inauthentic, but as one of the greatest Mayan archaeological sites in the country, it’s also an essential visit. Renowned for its central pyramid, the site has plenty of other ruins to explore and makes for an unforgettable trip that you’ll be talking about for years to come.

20. La Merced Market, Mexico City

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77 Best Things to Do in Mexico & Top Attractions [2024]

Looking for items to add to your Mexico bucket list?

You’ve landed on the right article, as I’ve lived in Mexico since 2018 , and am about to highlight all the best things to do in Mexico! For those who have never been to Mexico, you may think it’s all beaches — but many of the best places to visit in Mexico aren’t beaches.

While Mexico has almost 7,000-miles of coastline, and some of the world’s best beaches, it also has Mayan and Aztec ruins, natural pink lakes, bioluminescent lagoons, haciendas and cantinas, and much more! Of course, this list also includes some of the best beaches in Mexico.

As the 14th largest country, this list of fun things to do in Mexico is separated by region. Since many break their Mexico trips up and explore one part of the country at a time, you’ll find bucket list Mexico City experiences, bucket list Yucatan Peninsula experiences, and so on.

Ready to get to this list of can’t miss Mexico things to do? Let’s dive in — starting with some useful Mexico travel tips, and then all the places to see and unique experiences you’ll want to add to your Mexico bucket list.

Best Things to Do in Mexico City

1. visit frida kahlo’s house.

Among the best things to do in Mexico City , don’t miss visiting the Casa Azul (Blue House), better known as the Frida Kahlo Museum. It is located in Coyoacan , one of the oldest neighborhoods in Mexico City, and a must-visit for many.

While Frida Kahlo is one of the most famous Mexican artists of all time, her husband, Diego Rivera, is just as important. The Casa Azul is the home the two shared together, where Frida ultimately died in 1954. Inside, you’ll see some of her paintings, other artwork and personal belongings.

🎫 Mexico City Travel Tips: Buy your Frida Museum tickets in advance, otherwise the line can be hours long!

best Things to do in MEXiCO

2. climb the teotihuacan pyramids.

From the Aztecs to the Maya, the Olmecs and to the Toltecs, there are hundreds of ancient ruins to visit in Mexico . One of the most impressive ancient destinations in Mexico, and one of the most visited, is the Teotihuacan Ruins (pronounced tay-oh-tee-wok-on).

At its height about 1,500 years ago, Teotihuacan was the most important and largest cities in the Americas, home to more than 100,000 people. It was occupied by a group known as the Teotihuacanos, until the city was mysteriously burned and abandoned around 550 AD.

15 Highest Rated Teotihuacan Tours from Mexico City

Today, many of the incredible monuments and pyramids still stand. There are three pyramids at Teotihuacan: the immense Pyramid of the Sun, the third largest pyramid in the world, the slightly-smaller Pyramid of the Moon and the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, a central Aztec god.

The pyramids are linked by the 2.5-mile-long Avenue of the Dead, which is flanked by more temples and ceremonial platforms. The impressive scale of this building work must be seen to be believed, especially when considering the builders didn’t have metal tools or pack animals to help.

Teotihuacan is located about 30 miles northeast of Mexico City . It takes about an hour to get there by rental car , taxi or Uber. You can also take a public bus from Mexico City’s North Bus Terminal to San Juan Teotihuacan, the pueblo magico (magic town) Teotihuacan Ruins is in.

You’ll want to arrive early to beat the crowds and midday sun. Wear comfy sneakers, eco-friendly sunscreen and your sun hat , as a visit involves a lot of walking and there’s very little shade. A hydration backpack with a built-in water bottle also comes in handy.

Submitted by Bella from Passport and Pixels

3. Teotihuacan Hot Air Balloon Ride

The best way to visit Teotihuacan? On a Totihuacan hot air balloon tour , because the only way to experience the vastness of this massive site is from above 🎈 Since the balloons go up early, you’ll arrive at the site early, then have time to explore the Teotihuacan Ruins after.

5 Highest Rated Teotihuacan Hot Air Balloon Tours

4. Eat the Original Tacos al Pastor

To say this is hotly debated is an understatement — but El Tizoncito makes a very bold claim about Mexico City tacos ! They say they invented tacos al pastor 😳 While this may or may not be true, you can visit the place they say these tacos were invented in the trendy La Condesa neighborhood.

🌮 Prefer to go on a taco tour with a local guide? Bike to taste the world’s BEST TACOS is one of the top-rated Mexico City tours, which combines top Mexico City sites like Museo Soumaya with tacos and a bike ride!

5. Hear Mariachi Music in Plaza Garibaldi

Plaza Garibaldi is an all-day and night street party, with mariachi music as the guest of honor! Mariachi is actually from Jalisco state , though Plaza Garibaldi is the best place to hear mariachi music in Mexico City.

Head to Plaza Garibaldi in Centro Historico (Downtown Mexico City) to see mariachi musicians, as they play songs and try to one-up each other in musical showmanship. 🎺 Prefer taking one of the Plaza Garibaldi Mexico City tours? Here are some great options.

6. See the Mexico City Day of the Dead Parade

Here’s one of the best Mexico fun facts for you: There was actually never a Mexico City Dia de los Muertos parade until it was depicted in the opening scene of the James Bond film, Spectre .

The Parade of Alebrijes AKA Mexico City Day of the Dead Parade in the movie was so epic the city decided it needed to turn fiction into reality, and the amazing Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City was born. It usually takes place the third Saturday in October, though dates vary.

7. Go on a Xochimilco Boat Cruise

One of the best things to see in Mexico City is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Xochimilco (pronounced so-shee-mill-co). Located in the south part of the city, this unique area almost feels like a totally different world compared to much of Mexico City.

In fact, Xochimilco itself has two distinct worlds within it. The first type of Xochimilco tours from Mexico City take place aboard a multicolored trajinera (tra-he-nair-uh) boat, as loud mariachi music plays and everyone’s drinking and dancing.

The second is on the Chinampas: Living an Ancient Culture Tour , a quiet and tranquil canoe ride through the canals of Xochimilco to visit the chinampas . The chinampas (pronounced chin-am-pas), or Floating Gardens of Xochimilco, have been used as sustainable farms for centuries.

Xochimilco Tours

8. walk around the zocalo/centro historico.

Mexico City Centro Historico (Historic City Center) and Xochmiloco together make up one of the Mexico City UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

With so many things to do in Centro Historico , the best place to start is in the Zocalo , or Main Square. There, you’ll see the Catedral Metropolitana (Mexico City Cathedral), Palacio Nacional (National Palace), Templo Mayor (Aztec Temple), and these other sites:

• Palacio de Bellas Artes, especially to see the Ballet Folklorico
• Alameda Central Park
• Barrio Chino (Mexico City Chinatown)
• Casa de los Azulejos
• Observation Tower at Torre Latinoamericana
• Palacio Postal Historic Post Office

9. Shop the La Ciudadela Market

Located in Centro Historico, Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela is one of the best markets in Mexico City. This colorful, bustling mercado is the perfect place to pick up an amazing assortment of Mexican folk art souvenirs — from textiles and tortilla baskets, to purses and dresses.

10. See a Lucha Libre Match (Mexican Wrestling)

Lucha libre Mexican wrestling is a guaranteed good time! The best matches take place on Saturday nights at Arena Mexico in the Doctores neighborhood. It is just outside the main tourist area, but next to the trendy Roma Norte neighborhood, which is full of amazing activities in Mexico City.

🦹‍♀️ MEXICO CITY TRAVEL TIP: As it’s much more fun with a big group, the Luchas & Masks Trip-Mask Tacos Beer & More or Lucha Libre & Street Taco Tour are great options.

11. Visit North America’s only Castle (Chapultepec Castle)

Located in the massive 1,700-acre Bosque de Chapultepec Park , El Castillo de Chapultepec is the only true castle in North America, as royalty once lived there. The former home to Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota is now a museum, and one of the must see Mexico City sites.

🤑 MEXICO CITY TRAVEL TIP: Chapultepec Castle admission is FREE on Sundays, but arrive early because it gets very crowded!

12. Walk through history at the Anthropology Museum

This Museo Nacional de Antropología is massive, and spand 23 exhibition rooms and 3,225 years of Mexican history. The museum highlights include the Piedra del Sol (Aztec Calendar or Aztec Sunstone), Olmec head statues, Coatlicue goddess statue and Moctezuma’s headdress.

If you’re someone who’s deeply fascinated by Mexico’s extensive history, consider the Mexico Unearthed at Anthropology Museum Tour . It is led by a female anthropologist and archaeologist, with 25 years of experience in Mexican history.

13. Try Pulque in Pulquería las Duelistas

Known as the “drink of the gods” by the Aztecs, pulque (pronounced pull-kay) is made from the agave plant, just like tequila and mezcal . As it’s only made in Central Mexico, trying pulque is one of the most unique things to do in Mexico City.

Sample this ancient adult beverage at Pulquería Las Duelistas, one of the best bars in Mexico City, located in Centro Historico (Historic Downtown). While natural pulque is an acquired taste, you can try a rotating lineup of flavored pulques at Las Duelistas, like coconut, mango and pineapple.

14. Eat Mexico City Street TacosWhen it comes to

If there’s one thing synonymous with Mexico — it’s tacos . While you can’t go wrong eating at all the amazing restaurants in Mexico City , you’ll also want to try as many of the bes t tacos in Mexico City as you can. (💁‍♀️ Use these pro tips to determine how to pick the best street food.)

As the most beloved of all Mexico City street food, you can also try different variations of tacos, like these:

• T lacoyo s : Diamond-shaped, open-face tacos
• Flautas: Rolled, fried tacos, also known as taquitos or tacos dorados
• Tostadas: Open-face tacos on a crispy tortilla

Mexico City Taco Tours

15. eat churros at el morro.

Churrería El Moro is known to have the best churros in Mexico City. They have locations all over the city, including Centro Historico and at Parque Mexico in La Condesa — one of the best neighborhoods in Mexico City .

Enjoy the churros y chocolate (churros and chocolate sauce) or the famous Consuelo , a churro ice cream sandwich, at nearby Parque Mexico , the perfect park for people-watching.

16. Visit the Golden Post Office

The Palacio de Correos de Mexico (Mexico Post Office) is located in Centro Historico. Also called Mexico’s Correo Mayor, this is the prettiest post office of all time! It still services as a working postal office, but also one of the most Instagram worthy Mexico City sites to take beautiful travel photos .

Things to Do in Mexico: Yucatan Peninsula Bucket List

17. swim & dive in the yucatan cenotes.

The Mexico cenotes (pronounced sen-no-tays) are natural pools, all connected to the same freshwater source. Beneath the Yucatan Peninsula in southeastern Mexico, there’s a river flowing underground, and over time the limestone rock above it collapsed to create a cenote .

There are about 6,000 cenotes in Yucatan. Some are fully open, like a swimming pool or pond; some partially-covered with tall rock walls and an opening at the top; some located underground in caves or caverns, like Cenote Suytun . Each type of cenote is beautiful in its own way.

For many travelers, swimming, snorkeling and diving in the cenotes is high atop of their bucket list. While some are located deep in the jungle, others are more accessible. In fact, some of the best cenotes in Mexico are the Tulum cenotes , with some just minutes from downtown Tulum .

For divers and the truly adventurous, diving in the Tulum cenotes is a must-do. Around Tulum, the freshwater cenotes are connected via a massive network of underground caves and caverns to explore. As the water is so clear, visibility can exceed 165-feet (50 m) on some days.

While the scenery in these underground caves is a delight for divers, non-divers will love it as well. Snorkelers closer to the surface, or even just anyone swimming with a mask on, will also be transported to what sometimes looks like you’re swimming in a river on the moon!

Cenote Dos Ojos near Tulum is very popular for both scuba diving and snorkeling. It has beautiful structures like stalagmites and stalactites, formed over millions of years, which you can see while just swimming in one of the best Mexico cenotes.

Cenote El Pit is a deep dive cenote, and reserved for advanced divers only. However, driving in a jeep filled with dive gear to a hole in the jungle floor, then diving into some of the cleanest water on the planet — is an experience that belongs on any diver’s bucket list. 

Among the most beautiful and best cenotes in Tulum for swimming, snorkeling and photos, don’t miss Cenote Calavera, Gran Cenote, Cenote Zacil-Ha, Cenote Santa Cruz Tulum, Cenote Tankah, Cenote Car Wash, Cenote Escondido, and Cenote Suytun .

Submitted by Alya of Stingy Nomads

best Things to do in Mexico

18. do an underwater photoshoot in a cenote.

One of the coolest and best things to do in Tulum Mexico is getting your photos taken underwater in one of the Tulum cenotes. There are only a handful of local photographers offering this, like Ramon on the Cenotes & Underwater Photography experience!

19. Stay in a Yucatan Hacienda

Haciendas are a huge part of the history in Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula . Back in the 1600-1800s, Yucatan farmers harvested the area’s profitable cash crop, henequen , nicknamed “green gold” because it made a lot of them very rich.

Henequen was used to make sisal , thanks to the sturdy string-like fibers of the henequen plant. When the demand and price for sisal dwindled, hacienda owners abandoned their sprawling estates as they became too expensive to maintain. For years, many Yucatan haciendas sat in ruin.

However, in the last 50 or so years, some have been restored. These are mostly used for private parties, weddings and events, though some have been converted into boutique hotels. Below, you’ll find a list of the best haciendas in Yucatan , that are also hotels you can stay in ⤵

• Hacienda Chablé Yucatán
• Coqui Coqui Papolchac Coba Residence & Spa
• Hacienda Santa Rosa, A Luxury Collection Hotel
• Hacienda Temozon, A Luxury Collection Hotel
• Hacienda Chichen & Yaxkin Spa

20. Swim with the Turtles in Akumal Bay

Swimming alongside the giant green sea turtles of Akumal, Mexico , as they glide through turquoise water is truly a bucket list activity. Located only about 30 minutes from Tulum , and 1.5 hours from Cancun , the pueblo of Akumal is a peaceful escape from these bigger destinations.

Among many amazing outdoor adventures in Yucatan , snorkeling with the turtles is a great way to see the natural side of this part of Mexico. The best way to swim with the turtles is by booking a tour, as the number of people allowed in Akumal Bay each day is regulated.

You can book tours online in advance to insure they don’t sell out on the day of your visit, or at the Akumal beachfront. Tour companies provide snorkeling gear and a life jacket, so all you need to do is enjoy watching these gorgeous animals as you swim in the shallows of Akumal Beach.

Cancun to Akumal: How to get to Akumal Mexico

Akumal turtle tours follow strict guidelines to continue conservation efforts to protect this endangered animal. Swimmers must maintain a 10-foot (3 m) distance from the green turtles and allow them to surface easily to breathe. 

Tours also include snorkeling to an off-shore reef to see schools of colorful tropical fish and stingrays. If you’re staying locally at an Akumal resort , book an early morning tour which will be less crowded since the day-trippers from Cancun or Tulum arrive later in the day.

Akumal turtle season runs from May to November, and if you’re visiting during this time, a turtle tour is one of the best things to do in Akumal Mexico. Do note that sunscreen of any kind is prohibited, as it harms the reef and sea life — so opt this SPF bathing suit (AKA rash guard) instead.

Submitted by Karen from Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Akumal Tours

21. eat cochinita pibil in merida, yucatán.

Merida, Mexico , is known as the Cultural Capital of the Yucatan Peninsula. Located about 3.5 hours from Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen — though it feels like it’s a world away. One of the best things to do in Merida Mexico is eat some authentic Yucatan food , like cochinita pibil .

This slow-roasted suckling pig is cooked underground in an oven called a “ pib .” You can have it in a torta (sandwich) or tacos; however, in the Yucatan, the most traditional way to eat it is in a panucho (tortilla stuffed with black bean paste) or salbute (puffy fried tortilla).  

22. See the Pink Lakes of Las Coloradas

Las Coloradas (The Blush) are the Mexico pink lakes in the Yucatan Peninsula . Las Coloradas gets its pink color from the red algae, brine shrimp and plankton that live in the water. The water’s salt content is very high, and the Mayans have used this area as a natural salt source for centuries.

Though visitors used to be able to go in the water, a few years back the Mexican government has since prohibited swimming in Las Coloradas. The reason for this is that the salt content can actually be toxic on the skin — but it’s still one of the most instagrammable places in Mexico. 

23. Visit Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins

One of the most visited Mexico tourist attractions is Chichen Itza Ruins , which sees about two million annual visitors. Chichen Itza is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and a Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Yucatan Peninsula .

Chichen Itza is located about 2-3 hour from all the top Yucatan Mexico destinations — Cancun, Tulum, Merida and Playa del Carmen, and less than one hour from Valladolid, Mexico . There are many Chichen Itza tours from all places, or you can drive your rental car . 

Chichen Itza is believed to be more than 1,500-years-old. As the Mayan people were experts in astronomy, architecture and mathematics, the buildings were uniquely designed according to the rotation of the Earth and positioning of the sun.

CHICHEN ITZA TIP ☀️ For a true Mexico bucket list experience, join the thousands who gather on the Spring and Fall Equinoxes. For about 30 seconds, the sun casts a shadow on the side of the El Castillo pyramid and it appears as though a serpent is crawling down it! 

El Caracol is the Astronomical Observatory and telescope once used to track the planet Venus. The Maya believed Venus is the sister star to the sun, and a war god. As they observed its position in the sky, it helped them know the best time to go into battle.

The largest pyramid is El Castillo (AKA Temple of Kukulkan). This pyramid has 91 steps on each side, adding up to 365 for each calendar day. The entire Chichen Itza site is filled with interesting buildings and amazing facts like this — which is why you’ll want to join a Chichen Itza tour .

Submitted by Lisa of Planning Away

top Things to do in Mexico

24. eat in a cave in playa del carmen.

One of the most fun things to do in Playa del Carmen Mexico is descend into Alux for a spectacular dinner underground in this cave restaurant. Colorfully-lit Alux is known as one of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen — and the ambiance is second to none.

25. Go Glamping in Tulum

If you’re wondering, What is glamping , you’re not alone. In short, glamping is a cross between glamorous accommodations and rustic camping: Glamor + Camping = Glamping . Among the best places for Mexico glamping, you have numerous options when going glamping in Tulum.

RELATED ARTICLE 🏝 Tulum Glamping: 11 Boho Glampsites & Tulum Treehouse Hotels

26. Snorkeling or Diving in Cozumel Island

Experiencing the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef off the coast of Cozumel Island is a Mexico must! Located a short boat ride from Playa del Carmen in the Yucatán Peninsula, the Cozumel Reefs are part of the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, and an aquatic paradise!

Located in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, Cozumel National Marine Park is a world-class snorkel and dive destination. It has a comfortable water temperature, excellent visibility, and exotic marine life — everything from turtles and tropical fish to lobsters, crabs and sea urchins.

You can stay right on the island in a Cozumel hotel , or do a day trip over from Playa del Carmen. To get there, take the Playa del Carmen ferry from the dock on 5th Avenue for the 25-minute boat ride. There’s also the small Cozumel Airport (code: CZM) for direct flights. 

If you come by ferry, you’ll be dropped off at the main Cozumel dock. There are several tour and boat operators right there who will take you out to the best reefs in Cozumel, including Palancar, El Cielo, El Cielito and Colombia. There’s also day trips from Cancun to Cozumel available.

With about 100 dive operators, Cozumel is an easy and affordable place to scuba for the first time. Already certified? It’s also the perfect place to take advanced diving courses for increased access to the underwater world. 

With your diving certification, you can explore even more of the underwater world. One of the coolest things to do in Cozumel Mexico is visit the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art, or MUSA , located a short boat ride away. Keep scrolling for more info on MUSA ⤵

Submitted by Melinda from Mel On the Go

27. Check out the Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA)

The Underwater Museum in Cancun is one of the top tourist attractions in Mexico, and among the best things to do in Cancun Mexico. MUSA, which stands for Museo Subacuatico de Arte , is located underwater near Cancun and Isla Mujeres , in the Mexican Caribbean.

As one of the best Cancun attractions, MUSA is also one of the largest underwater sculpture gardens in the world. While diving, snorkeling or on a MUSA glass bottom boat tour , you can see some ( or all! ) of the more than 500 pieces of art created by various artists.

This museum is also a marine reserve with more than 500 life-sized, underwater sculptures. Diving or even snorkeling at this unique underwater park is actually helping to rebuild the coral reef in this area, so don’t pass up the chance — and don’t forget your underwater camera!

🏩 Looking to stay in one of the best Mexico resorts? Cancun is well known for having many of the best Mexico all inclusive resorts in the country — Check them out here!

28. Swim in Rio Secreto (Underground River)

You’ve probably noticed by now there’s plenty of unique Mexico stuff to do! In the Yucatan Peninsula, there’s a river flowing underground to explore. If you’re looking for one of the best bucket list Yucatan Peninsula things to do, look no further than Rio Secreto, meaning “Secret River.”

Located just 15-20 minutes from Playa del Carmen , the pristine, nearly-untouched underground river and cave system of Rio Secreto (Secret River) await. It has only recently opened for tours — like the ones you’ll see below ⤵.

With stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and plant-life dripping from the cave openings, Rio Secreto offers up awe-inspiring views with small crowds. This site isn’t an overrun Riviera Maya experience; rather, a guided experience intentionally kept small to help preserve the magic.

To start your cave exploration, you’ll put on a wetsuit, grab a walking stick and descend into the underground river system with your guide. Your small group will walk and swim to explore the cave system and learn its history, before returning to surface for lunch.

How many people get to say they’ve explored a nearly-untouched underground river system?! With the Rio Secreto excursion, you can enjoy this once in a lifetime experience, located not far from the top destinations of Tulum and Cancun , it’s truly one of the best places to visit in Yucatan !

Submitted by Gabby from Office Escape Artist

Rio Secreto Tours

29. have a drink in a merida cantina.

Merida, known as the safest city in Mexico , is among a handful of cities in the country that still has a thriving cantina culture. Complete with old school cantina doors and rustic vibes, there are several great cantinas in Merida , like La Negrita Cantina, El Cardenal Cantina and El Dzalbay Cantina.

🇲🇽 One of the best ways to discover the city itself is on the FREE walking tours of Merida , and you can ask your guide to point out all the best cantinas in Merida.

30. See the Yellow City of Izamal

One of the best day trips from Merida , Izamal is a feast for the eyes. The entire downtown in Izamal pueblo magico (magic town), is painted yellow. While no one knows for sure why it’s yellow, as one of the world’s few monochromatic cities, Izamal is one of the coolest bucket list Mexican places.

31. Swim with the Whale Sharks in Holbox Island

One of the best things to do in Mexico is to swim with whale sharks. In case you’re a little scared now — know that these are not sharks! They are, however, the largest fish in the ocean, and can grow up to 30-feet-long (9 m). It is truly unforgettable to get to swim next to these huge, peaceful animals!

Isla Holbox is the perfect place to experience this incredible adventure and try something new. Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh) is a small island in the Caribbean Sea, located in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and accessible only by ferry from the pueblo of Chiquilá, Mexico.

Wondering how to get to Holbox Island? Check out this Cancun to Isla Holbox guide !

Only about 2,000 people live on Holbox, and the island is known for its small town feel. While not far from the more popular destinations of Tulum , Playa del Carmen and Cancun , Isla Holbox’s more chill vibes mean you’ll find everything from relaxation to amazing Mexican street food there.

Besides swimming with the whale sharks in Holbox, the island has other incredible nature and unique wildlife. You can see different types of birds (maybe even flamingos) on Isla Pajaros or Yum Balam Nature Reserve, and the bioluminescence at night on Punta Cocos beach.

Of course, the whale sharks swim is a must if you’re visiting during their migration season of June to September. There are several local tour companies you can book with when you arrive on the island. They charge between $100-180USD per person, which is pricey, but worth it.

Tours last an entire day and usually involve a few snorkeling opportunities closer to shore after seeing the whale sharks. You need to go all the way out into the open ocean to see whale sharks so the boat ride takes quite a while (so don’t forget your anti-sea sickness pills ).

Submitted by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

32. See the Celestun Flamingos in Mexico

Located in the quaint fishing village of Celestun, about 2.5 hours from Merida , you’ll find the Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve. There are some nice Celestun beaches , most visit the town because it’s the best place to see flamingos in Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula.

To see the Celestun flamingos, do a boat tour through the mangroves , where as many as 35,000 flamingos live from November-February during mating season. Besides flamingos, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is among the best places for bird watching in Mexico.

33. Boat Ride in Bacalar Lagoon of Seven Colors

Bacalar, Mexico is located on the southern tip of Quintana Roo state , only about 30 minutes from the Mexico-Belize border. One of the most popular places to visit in the Yucatan Peninsula, Bacalar is a pueblo magico (magic town), still untouched by mass tourism.

The top things to see in Bacalar all revolve around Laguna Bacalar (AKA Bacalar Lagoon or Bacalar Lake). This is the second largest freshwater lake in Mexico, which the Mayans nicknamed the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” as they say you can see seven shades of blue in it.

Also sometimes called the “Maldives of Mexico,” the water in Lake Bacalar is as perfectly crystal-clear and beautiful as in the Maldives Islands. Much like in the Maldives, you’ll want to book a Bacalar hotel on the lake so you can admire its beauty day and night!

Bacalar Mexico: Ultimate Bacalar Lagoon Travel Guide

On Bacalar Lagoon, there are a few great activities, namely taking a boat tour to reach all the special parts of the lagoon. Bacalar Lake is about seven miles long, so to see as much as possible, you’ll need to go by boat.

Some of the best things to do in Bacalar include the Canal de los Piratas (Pirate’s Channel), where there’s a shipwreck you can jump off into the lake, Isla de Pajaros (Bird Island), and Cenote la Bruja (Witch’s Cenote). There’s also Cenote Azul (Blue Cenote), located just outside of the lake.

If unique places in Mexico are your thing, and you want to experience some more beautiful nature in the same state as Bacalar, check out the Huasteca Potosina and Isla Holbox (Holbox Island).

Submitted by Cynthia and Alexander from Travel Your Memories

Bacalar boat tours

34. stroll calzada de los frailes in valladolid.

The Calzada de los Frailes (AKA the Calle de los Frailes) is known as the most beautiful street in Valladolid pueblo magico (magic town). It is located a few blocks from the Zocalo (Main Square), and makes the perfect place for Instagram worthy Valladolid photos.

On one end of the street, you’ll find the 16th Century Convento de San Bernardino de Siena and Valladolid sign in big, colorful letters. From the historic convent, walk northeast down Calzada de Frailes, and stop for photos at all the cute cafes and boutique stops along the way.

35. Stand on the Platform at Cenote Suytun

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula has about 6,000 cenotes (sinkholes). Some of them, known as swimming pool cenotes, are completely exposed with no rock covering them. Other cenotes are partially-open with some rock making a canopy over the top, and some are fully underground in caves.

Suytun Cenote , located about 45 minutes from both Tulum and Valladolid , is an underground cave cenote. There is a circular platform in its center and a hole in top so a single ray of light gets in — making Cenote Suytun among the best cenotes in Mexico. 

36. Visit Tulum Ruins

By now, most people have heard of the popular Mexico beach town of Tulum. If you’ve never been, you’re likely wondering what to do in Tulum?! Among the must-see sites is the Tulum Mayan Ruins, located right on Tulum Beach overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum is among the best places in Riviera Maya . It is a beautiful Mexico beach town, but unique among all other beach towns because it has these amazing Mayan Ruins, located on one of the best beaches in Mexico .

The old city of Tulum was established in about the 13th Century as a seaport, trading mainly turquoise and jade. It was built on the top of a cliff and surrounded by a wall to protect the population from invaders and pirates.

Traveling to Tulum Mexico: Ultimate Guide for First Timers

The entrance to Tulum Ruins is still through that same wall, and once in, it’s like stepping back in time. The city inside the walls still has some of the original stone buildings, located amongst lovely green grass fields and numerous freely roaming iguanas.

Among the many structures at the Tulum Archeological Site, the most iconic is the Templo del Wiento (Wind Temple), sitting on a cliff at the edge of the site. This ancient stone structure, combined with the turquoise Caribbean Sea water behind it, makes for great photos.

After touring the site, you can take the staircase down to Playita Tortuga (Turtle Beach). This is a small beach cove located beneath the ruins, where many head for a dip in the sea to cool off after exploring. 🏝 Don’t forget your quick dry towel and reef-safe sunscreen !

Submitted by Moshe from The Top Ten Traveler

37. Get Instagram Worthy Tulum Photos

Tulum is known as one of the most Instagrammable places in Mexico, with beautiful beaches, trendy restaurants and bars, hotels with bohemian decor like Azulik Tulum and its Sfer Ik Museum, art hotels like Casa Malca (once owned by Pablo Escobar), and more.

Some of the quintessential Tulum photos spots are on Tulum Beach. At one extreme end of this street, there’s the Tulum Mayan Ruins. From there, you’ll pass the Follow That Dream sign, Matcha Mama Cafe, Ven a la Luz sculpture, and many more Instagrammable Tulum sites.

Things to Do in Mexico: Central Mexico Bucket List

38. hike to el tepozteco pyramid.

Tepoztlán, Morelos is one of the best day trips from Mexico City , at just one hour away. This town is a hub for artists, healers and spiritual seekers, and one of the 135 or so pueblos magicos , or magical towns, a prestigious title awarded by the Mexico Tourism Secretary.

For many, no visit to Tepoztlan is complete without climbing up to the Tepozteco Aztec pyramid . It’s an intense climb, though the views are spectacular. This mountain-top ruin is dedicated to Tepoztēcatl, the Aztec god of pulque (pronounced pull-kay), known as “the drink of the gods.”

39. Explore the Underground Great Pyramid of Cholula

Located under the iconic yellow Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios Cholula church — yes, under it — you’ll find the Great Pyramid of Cholula . It is the largest archaeological site that has a pyramid in the New World, and the largest pyramid on Earth, by volume.

You can tour the underground tunnels of this large pyramid, which is only partially excavated, in the Cholula Architectural Zone in downtown. The charming Cholula pueblo magico (magic town) is located in Puebla state , about three hours from Mexico City.

40. Ride the Tequila Express Train

One of the most fun ways to experience the Tequila pueblo magico (magic town) is taking the Jose Cuervo Express Tequila Train . This day trip goes to Tequila from Guadalajara, Mexico , with unlimited drinks and educational classes about Mexico’s famous spirit.

🥂 Tequila Fun Fact: Just as champagne is essentially a sparkling wine made in the city of Champagne, France — tequila is a mezcal that’s made in the city of Tequila, Mexico , or a few surrounding cities.

41. Visit the Guanajuato Mummy Museum

The Museo de las Momias (Mummies Museum) is among the best things to do in Guanajuato, Mexico . (💀 Curious about the story behind the Guanajuato mummies? Read their interesting story here .)

While the Mummy Museum in Guanajuato may not be not for everyone because the 100 or so Guanajuato mummies are real human bodies, it’s a bucket list Mexico experience as there’s no museum like it anywhere in the world.

42. Explore the Huasteca Potosina Waterfalls

Located in the state of San Luis Potosi , northeast of Mexico City, and bordering the Sierra Gorda UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is the Huasteca Potosina. This natural playground for the outdoor enthusiasts has breathtaking waterfalls, rivers, natural pools and even some caves.

There is so much to discover that you could spend an entire week here and never run out of things to do in Huasteca Potosina . For nature lovers, you’ll want to immediately add this somewhat off the beaten path Mexico destination to your bucket list. 

The Huasteca Potosina is still quite undeveloped, and has retained its natural beauty and charm — despite increasing tourism. To explore the whole area, you can book this tour , or rent a car and go on your own if you’re more adventurous. It is safe to explore either way you choose.

🤿 The best way to visit is on this 3-Day Adventure and Nature Tour in Huasteca Potosina Tour !  

You’ll want to book a hotel in Ciudad Valles, Mexico , a town right in the heart of the Huasteca. From there, you can take daily trips to the best waterfalls: Mico, Tamul, Tamasopo, El Salto, Puente de Dios. There’s also the Sotano de las Golondrinas (Cave of Swallows), which you must see before sunrise.

These locations are all spread out, which is why it’s easiest to stay central in Ciudad Valles and head in different directions every day. You can also make yourself a custom itinerary and find local places to stay closer to each of the Huasteca sites you want to explore. 

If you don’t rent a car , you can hire a taxi which costs about $1500 pesos ($75USD) for the day. However, the easiest way to visit is on the 3-Day Adventure and Nature Tour in Huasteca Potosina Tour . Either way you choose, don’t miss one of the most amazing places in Mexico.

Submitted by Isabella from Boundless Roads

43. Marvel at the San Miguel de Allende Church

San Miguel de Allende is a Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site, and known as one of the best places to retire in Mexico. It’s also one of the best places to visit in Mexico , and there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in San Miguel de Allende Mexico.

It is a well-preserved Mexico colonial city, centered around the towering Gothic-style Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel Church. Marvel at the church, then stroll the rest of this colorful town and enjoy eating in this well-known foodie city, one of the best places to eat traditional Mexican cuisine .

44. Go Skydiving in Puerto Vallarta

A bucket list experience in Mexico and anywhere, Puerto Vallarta skydiving offers amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and Sierra Madre Mountains upon descent. You’ll land right on the beach, a peaceful place to end the most adrenaline-filled of all the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta . 

45. Climb the Peña de Bernal Monolith

The San Sebastian Bernal pueblo magico (magic town) in Queretaro state is known most for the Peña de Bernal (Bernal Stone). It is the third tallest monolith on Earth, towering over the city at 1420-feet-tall (433 m).

There are many Peña de Bernal tours that include hiking and abseiling (rappelling) to higher points on this giant rock. To go all the way to the top you’d need a permit, but there are also places you can walk up to that are closer to the base which offer beautiful views all along the way.

46. Experience the Monarch Butterfly Migration

Every November, millions (possibly billions) of monarch butterflies make their annual 3,000-mile migration from Canada to the Oyamel Fir Forests in Mexico’s Central Highlands. They remain in Mexico from about November to March.

Located not far from Mexico City, many visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Butterfly Sanctuary on a day trip from Mexico City .

There are a few designated sanctuaries — one in Michoacan state, and the Piedra Herrada Monarch Butterfly Biosphere, located in the lakefront town Valle de Bravo . Piedra Herrada Butterfly Sanctuary, in Estado de México (Mexico State), is closer to Mexico City, so many visit this one.  

🦋 The best and safest way to visit is on a group tour, like the Monarch Butterflies & Valle de Bravo Tour or the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Private Tour with Photographer .

If you go on your own, you can hike up or pay for a horse and guide for the one-hour climb up the mountain where you’ll see the butterflies. Most of the climb is a gentle uphill walk; however, the final 150-feet (45 m) is a steep, rocky incline that even the horses do not even attempt.

Once at the top, you will see thousands of monarch butterflies just in your immediate eyeline. They are everywhere, often weighing down branches because there are so many of them, or fluttering about covering you, flying in the air around you, and even on the ground.

In the spring, the butterflies begin their eight month migration back — during which time four generations of butterflies live and die. Scientists don’t know how they find their way to the same spot in Mexico each year.

This phenomenon is considered the most dramatic display of insect migration in the world. Being in the forest, surrounded by monarch butterflies in all directions and as far as the eye can see, is truly a Mexico bucket list experience.

Submitted by Nicole from Go Far Grow Close

47. Walk through the Tlaxcala Firefly Forest

Each year, from June-August, the Santuario de las Luciernagas (Nanacamilpa Firefly Sanctuary) in Tlaxcala, Mexico comes alive at night with millions of tiny glowing creatures. Tlaxcala is the smallest state in Mexico, located about 1.5-2 hours from Mexico City.

The window for seeing this natural phenomenon is short, so book your spot on the Excursion to the Sanctuary of the Fireflies well in advance. Walking through the magical Mexico firefly forest is one of the best Mexico experiences, that looks like something right out of a fantasy movie.

48. Visit Las Grutas Tolantongo Hot Springs

The Tolantongo grutas, or Tolantongo caves, is one of the most Instagram worthy places in Mexico. It is one of the best Mexico City day trips , located about four hours north of the city in the state of Hidalgo , where you’ll also find the Basaltic Prisms in Huasca de Ocampo, Toltec Ruins in Tula.

Grutas Tolantongo is still quite undeveloped, and has retained its natural beauty and charm — despite increasing tourism. The easiest and best way to visit Tolantongo is on one of these Mexico City to Tolantongo tours , or rent a car and go on your own if you’re more adventurous.

49. See the Hidden Beach at Islas Marietas

Those traveling to Puerto Vallarta , Sayulita and San Pancho , can cross the Marietas Islands off their Mexico bucket list. On one of the islands in this chain, you’ll see the famous hidden beach in Mexico — Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach).

As this Mexico hidden gem has grown in popularity in recent years, the government has limited the number of daily visitors to preserve this natural treasure. Now, only about 125 people per day may visit the island with only a few registered tour companies.

If the Islas Marietas and Mexico hidden beach is on your bucket list, book one of the Marietas Islands tours seen below.

Islas marietas tours

Note that there are two types of tours to the Marietas Islands. One tour takes you near the hidden beach and snorkeling around the other islands; these average about $75USD. The other tour (seen below ⤵) allow you to actually explore the Hidden Beach; these cost about $150-200USD.

50. Indulge on the Wine & Cheese Route

Located not far from Quetetaro, Mexico , many head to Tequisquiapan pueblo magico (magic town) to enjoy Central Mexico’s Wine and Cheese Route . This small town is known for its many vineyards, like Finca Sala Vive by Freixenet , and the Cava de Quesos Bocanegra cheese cave.

🚙💨 Renting a car in Mexico? Mexico City to Queretaro is one of the easiest and best travel road trips in Central Mexico!

51. See the UNESCO World Heritage City of Morelia

Morelia, Mexico is a UNESCO World Heritage City. It has a much more European look than many places in Mexico, with beautiful stone fountains and classical architecture located throughout downtown. 

While many Mexico colonial cities have been painted in bright colors, Morelia’s buildings remained unpainted and in their natural pink-colored stone. Of the most iconic buildings, head to the Historic City Center of Morelia to see the beautiful baroque Morelia Cathedral.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN Mexico

52. walk the underground puebla tunnels.

The underground tunnel system in Puebla, Mexico dates back to 1531. However, it was only just discovered in 2016 when an archeologist found a mysterious doorway, seemingly by accident, in the Cinco de Mayo Road alleyway.

It led him to an elaborate tunnel system beneath the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Puebla. The Secret Tunnels of Puebla is now a museum you can walk through and see the artifacts dug up within them. The reason the tunnels were built in the first place remains a mystery!

53. Stay in Elizabeth Taylor’s Puerto Vallarta Mansion

Besides some of the best beach towns in Mexico , Puerto Vallarta also offers its visitors a lot of history and old world charm. The town was the backdrop of the 1964 film, The Night of The Iguana , with Ava Gardner and Richard Burton.

The two Hollywood acting legends continued their onscreen romance off-screen, eventually buying a home together in Puerto Vallarta. Now called the Casa Kimberly Boutique Hotel , visitors can stay in the home or visit it on the Old Town Hollywood Tour .

BEST THINGS TO DO IN MEXiCO

54. learn to surf in sayulita.

Located on the Pacific Coast, about one hour from Puerto Vallarta , you’ll find the Sayulita pueblo magico (magic town). Sayulita is in Nayarit state, on a beautiful strip of beach known as the Riviera Nayarit, along with San Pancho , the Marietas Islands , posh Punta Mita , and more. 

While all Mexico is full of adventure, culture, mouth watering food and beautiful landscapes — no Mexico bucket list is complete without surfing in Sayulita . The Nayarit Riviera has attracted surfers from all over the world for decades now, but there are beginner waves as well.

For those new to surfing, there are plenty of Sayulita surf schools right on the main beach, called Playa Sayulita. While there are many great Sayulita things to do — the best one being surfing, of course, so don’t be scared to book some lessons.

Sayulita’s warm water is inviting, and its gentle waves are perfect for first-time surfers. It also has a beautiful sandy bottom, so you don’t have to worry about rocks. If you have ever wanted to learn how to surf, Sayulita ranks among the best places to surf in Mexico for beginners.

After your Sayulita surf lesson, relax and just hang out on the beach to enjoy fresh coconut water and a beachfront massage. After your first time surfing, you’ll definitely want some down time after hitting the waves — one of the best things to do in Sayulita !

As the Sayulita beaches start to fill up with people in anticipation of sunset, enjoy a nice margarita or cold beer as the sun dips into the Pacific Ocean. There is something special about Sayulita, and learning to surf here makes it all the more special.

Submitted by Megan from Peter Pan Traveler

55. Eat Prehispanic Food at Tepoztlan Market

For a unique Mexico foodie experience, head to Tepoztlan Market to try prehispanic foods like itacates (fried corn cakes), tlaltequeadas, (veggie pancakes), alaches and quelites (two different dark green veggies).

Located in the Tepoztlan pueblo magico (magic town) about one hour from Mexico City, this vibrant town is one of the most unique places to visit in Mexico . It is a hub for spiritual seekers, artists, bohemians, and those doing wellness retreats in Mexico.

Things to Do in Mexico: Southern Mexico Bucket List

56. see the hierve el agua waterfall.

Hierve el Agua (which means boiling water) isn’t actually a waterfall, but does look like a waterfall. It is the result of small streams and droplets of mineral-rich water falling over the side of a cliff. After many years, the water calcified and now looks like a waterfall.

Besides hiking down to the base of the “waterfall,” you can also go for a swim in the Hierve el Agua pools, located in Oaxaca, Mexico . These thermal pools hold the boiling water from which Hierve el Agua gets its name. 

57. Visit Palenque Mayan Ruins

While the best places to vacation in Mexico are subjective, those looking to experience unspoiled, beautiful Mexican nature will enjoy Palenqne, a pueblo magico in Chiapas. Located in a rainforest high in the mountains, the top site here is the Palenque Ruins (pronounced pah-len-kay).

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is about 135 miles (220 km) from San Cristobal de las Casas . If you’re fascinated by ancient civilizations and ruins, or have visited Machu Picchu in Peru, or Tikal in Guatemala, you’ll love the Palenque Mayan Ruins in Mexico.

The Palenque Archaeological Zone you can visit today is just a small fraction of what was once a sprawling city. The area known as Palenque today is much older, but the archaeological zone dates back to 1567. The ruins were discovered in the 1950s by Mexican archaeologist, Alberto Ruz Lhuillier.

Best Mayan Ruins of Mexico You Must See

Some of the rooms still feature intricately carved tablets mounted to the walls, particularly in the Palace Complex. Here, you’ll find three parallel walls, connected with corridors and a vaulted ceiling, typical of the style of the building at Palenque .

Some of the more notable buildings and temples include the Templo del Conde (Temple of the Count), El Palacio (The Palace) and Templo de las Inscripciones (Temple of the Inscriptions). There are also smaller temples, like Templos XII and XIII, so plan for a full day to fully explore.

Located in the jungle, Palenque weather is hot and humid year-round. Temperatures average 85-95°F; but can feel 5-10°F hotter with the humidity. Always check the weather before you visit, and don’t forget your filterable water bottle , which filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico .

Thanks to the jungle climate, the lush green landscape surrounding Palenque Ruins only adds to its beauty. The surrounding vegetation is home to monkeys, birds, and of course bugs, so don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray and anti-insect bracelet .

By Becki from Meet Me In Departures

58. Release Baby Sea Turtles in Puerto Escondido

The Oaxaca beach town of Puerto Escondido is well known as one of the best places to surf in Mexico. However, non-surfers have beautiful beaches to enjoy during the day as well. When the sun’s setting, don’t miss the baby sea turtle release in Oaxaca.

21 Best Oaxaca Beaches: Ultimate Oaxacan Coast Guide

59. Attend Day of the Dead in Oaxaca

Día de los Muertos is a festive time in much of Mexico — though no city has a more extravagant party than the Day of the Dead Oaxaca celebration. As Oaxaca City, the state’s capital, is a smaller sized city, people book this Mexico bucket list celebration up to a year in advance.

60. Boat Around Lagunas de Montebello

Nestled in the Southern Mexico region of Los Altos de Chiapas, Lagunas de Montebello National Park is a complex of about 60 lakes. They are interspersed within a lush forest that offers beautiful scenery for a beautiful day of boating around.

In 2009, the nearly 16,000-acre area was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Unfortunately, the lakes are not swimmable, but you can explore the area on horseback trails, hiking trails and Montebello boat tours to see some of the lakes. 

From the nearby town of San Cristobal de las Casas , there are tours that combine Lagunas de Montebello with the El Chiflon waterfall . However, if you have more time, take a few days and explore the area on your own.

This off the beaten path part Mexico has so much to see, with small communities around the lagoons to get in touch with nature and hire local guides to take you around. A bit further south, don’t miss Las Guacamayas Ecotourism Center and Las Nubes Waterfalls .

Submitted by Isabella from Let’s Travel to Mexico

61. Go Silver Shopping in Taxco

Taxco, Mexico was one a booming silver mining town. Today, it gets most of its income from tourism, as one of the most beautiful and best pueblos magicos in Mexico . You’ll enjoy walking the town’s winding cobblestone streets, and buying silver directly from local artisans.

62. Take a Cooking Class in Oaxaca

Oaxaca City , the capital of Oaxaca state, is known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico — so what better way to get to know this place than through the delicious Oaxaca food and drinks . While Mexico is known for tacos and burritos, in Oaxaca, it’s all about mole , tlayudas , tejate and mezcal !

oaxaca cooking classes & food Tours

63. boat through sumidero canyon.

The state of Chiapas is known for beautiful nature, and among the best things to do in Chiapas is visit Sumidero Canyon National Park. To see the Cañon del Sumidero, join a boat tour, which you can take from the nearby towns of San Cristobal de las Casas or Tuxtla Gutierrez .

The tour companies will drive you to the pueblo magico (magic town) of Chiapa de Corzo, where you’ll board the boat and hit the water. The tours take you along the Grijalva River, which extends for about eight miles along the bottom of this steep-walled canyon.

The Sumidero Canyon boat tour lasts about 1.5 hours. On this thrilling ride, marvel at the canyon walls, which extend up to about 3,000-feet-tall (1000 m) in some areas. Chock full of wildlife, you may see crocodiles a few feet from the boat, and playful monkeys in the trees on shore.

Ultimate Chiapas Mexico Travel Guide

You’ll also see the Árbol de Navidad , or Christmas Tree waterfall, which cascades down the side of the cliff in a pine tree shape. There’s also river caves only accessible by boat, and one even has a small shrine dedicated to the Virgin de Guadalupe.

Make sure your camera is fully charged as there’s many beautiful sites along the way through Sumidero Canyon. A waterproof phone holder , sunscreen and a sun hat ( one with a strap so it doesn’t fly off! ) will also come in handy.

Once the boat ride is over, make sure to spend some time in Chiapa de Corzo as it has great shops and restaurants. Most tours will give you an hour or so to explore this small pueblo following the boat ride.

Submitted by Julie from Travel Family Lifestyle

64. Visit El Chiflon Waterfalls

Cascadas El Chiflón is a popular day trip from San Cristobal de las Casas or Tuxtla Gutiérrez, a somewhat off the beaten path pueblo magico (magic town) in Chiapas state. Chiapas, located in Southern Mexico, is one of the best regions for outdoor and adventure activities, and Mexico culture travel.

With mountain hikes, deep cenotes, ancient Mayan ruins like Palenque and Bonampak, rushing rivers and extensive cave systems, Chiapas is a wild place of striking natural beauty. There are also numerous waterfalls, and El Chiflón has some of the best waterfalls in Chiapas .

At El Chiflon, there are gorgeous turquoise pools that collect under a series of stunning falls, some of which you can swim in. The best waterfall at El Chiflon is the final one you’ll see along the trail, Velo de Novia (Bridal Veil), a spectacular 395-foot (120 m) fall.

To reach Velo de Novia waterfall, you’ll follow an easy 1.5-mile (1 km) walking trail which travels upstream past an impressive collection of lower falls. Make sure to take a bathing suit so you can swim in the stunning blue waters of the lower falls. The easiest way to reach El Chiflon is by rental car , or with a tour from popular tourist towns in Chiapas State , like Tuxtla Gutiérrez and San Cristóbal de las Casas. There are picnic tables and facilities at El Chiflon, as well as a small collection of food stalls.

Submitted by Kelli from The Vanabond Tales

65. Attend Carnaval in Veracruz

Carnaval de Veracruz is an annual festival that takes place in the Port of Veracruz (AKA Heroica Veracruz) each February. It is one of the most recognized of all Carnaval celebrations in Mexico, along with the celebration in Mazatlan, Mexico .

🎭 Mexico Fun Facts: Carnaval in Mexico is similar to Mardi Gras in New Orleans and Carnaval in Brazil, so expect parades, festive floats, dancing, elaborate costumes and street parties.

66. Visit the Indigenous Towns of Chamula & Zinacantan

When visiting the colonial city of San Cristobal de Las Casas in the state of Chiapas, plan for some time to also see the two nearby pueblos of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan . These towns are about 30 minutes from San Cristobal, and 4.5-miles (7 km) from one another.

🚌💨 Visit them both on the Chamula and Zinacantán Day Trip from San Cristóbal Tour!

The two towns are close to each other, but very different. Chamula is a merchant town whereas Zinacantan is an artisan town. They do both rule themselves independently and have their own (non-Mexican) police force, but have differing customs, dress, traditions and public holidays.

Of the two, San Juan Chamula is well known for its centuries-old Iglesia San Juan church. In this picturesque church, there’s a ritual which is not for the faint hearted. Note: Photos aren’t allowed in the church or of indigenous peoples and local villagers.

San Juan Chamula Church Ceremony: What to Expect

If you are lucky enough to attend on a day a curandero (medicine man or shaman) is there, you’re in for a once in a lifetime experience. As mentioned, this isn’t for everyone — but it is a unique and powerful ceremony, both for locals and visitors who are welcome to attend.

When in attendance, the curandero performs rituals for local families to clear negative energies. The ritual includes a live chicken, an egg, a local liquor called pox (pronounced posh), and Coca-Cola or Fanta soda, intended to make participants belch and evacuate negative energy.

There are no pews inside the church, and worshipers sit on pine needles strewn across the floor. Families sit together in designated areas on the floor, along with the medicine man, and they will all begin changing — likely in their native Tzotzil language.

The curandero goes by the families with the egg, saying prayer and invocations to absorb energies into it. It is said that if the egg was cracked open during the ritual, it would be black inside, having absorbed the negative vibrations from the family. 

( Trigger Warning: Animal sacrifice ) In some cases, the neck of the live chicken will be broken and it too will be passed over the family to absorb the negative energies. It is then buried, along with the egg.

Having completed the service, the medicine man will be paid and the family returns home free of negative energies. This ceremony is a unique mix of prehispanic ritual meets Catholic ritual, and the only place to see it is in San Juan Chamula, Mexico.

Submitted by Jane from To Travel Too

free Things to do in Mexico

67. visit playa carrizalillo in puerto escondido.

Playa Carrizalillo is arguably the most beautiful beach in Puerto Escondido. It’s not super easy to get to, as you must walk down ( then back up! ) about 155 stairs to access this beach. However, Carrizalillo is great for swimming, and could honestly be on a postcard, so it’s worth the trek.

There are several amazing beaches in Oaxaca and beach towns, like Bahías de Huatulco , Mazunte, San Agustinillo and Lagunas de Chacahua National Park. Though not as popular at the Mexican Caribbean beaches, Oaxaca has some of the best Mexico Pacific Coast beaches.

68. Hike to the Oaxaca Pueblos Mancomunados

With UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Oaxaca City and Monte Alban Ruins, majestic mountain ranges and indigenous Zapotec villages — Oaxaca is a Mexico bucket list state. It’s also a culinary hotspot for Oaxaca food , and the gorgeous beaches of Oaxaca only add to its appeal.

For an off the beaten path Oaxaca experience, go on a Oaxaca trekking adventure to the Pueblos Mancomunados . These eight self-governing indigenous Zapotec villages work together to provide immersive Mexico ecotourism experiences — while protecting their land, culture and heritage.

Visiting the Pueblos Mancomunados is a cultural immersion with the Zapotec peoples who live in the villages of the Sierra Norte. These forested highlands are less than two hours from Oaxaca City , and have been home to the Zapotec for centuries.

On a tour, local guides will accompany visitors trekking from village to village. In each, there’s basic but comfortable cabins, tasty local dishes to try and unique activities like medicinal plant walks or chocolate-making classes.

Ultimate Oaxaca Mexico Travel Guide

How to Book a Tour to the Sierra Norte in Oaxaca 

Expediciones Sierra Norte, based in Oaxaca City , is a good starting point for any Sierra Norte adventure. The organization is directly run by the Pueblos Mancomunados, ensuring the villages fully benefit from the tourism.

Depending on the trip length, prices start at about $100USD for an overnight expedition. The whole village to village trek takes about seven days, and especially for multi-day hiking, it’s easier to get help from locals with the logistics.

Submitted by Antonia from Flashpack Journal

Things to Do in Mexico: Baja California & North Mexico Bucket List

69. visit playa balandra beach.

Known as one of the most beautiful Mexico beaches, Playa Balandra is located about one hour north of La Paz, Mexico . It’s about two hours from Cabo San Lucas , but still, many visitors make the trip to see one of the best beaches in Mexico !

Balandra Beach is located in a peaceful lagoon with white sand, turquoise water, and rust-colored rocks all around. Thanks to Instagram and YouTube, it has become one of the most popular Mexican tourist attractions, so visit early in the day to avoid the crowds.

70. Wine Tasting in Valle de Guadalupe

Valle de Guadalupe, or just Valle (pronounced vie-yay) for short, is among the most unique places in Mexico . Often called the Napa Valley of Mexico, this up-and-coming wine region and foodie paradise in Baja California state is just two hours from the U.S.-Mexico border.

Wine novices will both enjoy the views from the tasting room at Santo Tomas Vineyard, and learn about the basics of winemaking with multimedia exhibits. Among the best things to do in Valle de Guadalupe is visit the most unique vineyard in Valle, AlXimia , which looks like a spaceship!

71. Pet the Gray Whales in Magdalena Bay

There are a number of places you can go whale watching in Baja California, and in Mexico, for that matter. However, none are as unique as the Magdalena Bay Gray Whale Experience , where the whales come right up to the boats to be touched.

From about December-March, about 500 gray whales come to the protected lagoon in Magdalena Bay. With its relatively shallow waters, orcas (killer whales) won’t enter this bay, making it a safe place for the gray whales to give birth and raise their young before returning to the Pacific Ocean.

Over the years, the whales have become accustomed to, and friendly with, human visitors. Unprovoked, they come right up to the tour boats on their own — the baby calf often right alongside the mother.

🐳 Book your Magdalena Gray Whale Experience now!

Where is Magdalena bay, Mexico?

Magdalena Bay is located near the small pueblo of San Carlos, in Baja California Sur state. It is about 2.5 hours from Loreto , and three hours from La Paz . Coming from other places like Los Cabos or Todos Santos , you’ll want to book a San Carlos hotel , as it’s a 4-5 hour drive.

You can book a Magdalena Whale Tour here , with some overnight stay options available in a yurt or tent that sits right on the bay. However you plan the trip, this is one of the most unforgettable of all bucket list Mexico things to do!

Ethical Animal Tourism in Mexico

Wildlife this trusting can, sadly, often be exploited. For this reason, Magdalena Bay whale watching tour companies are highly regulated, and their permit fees go towards Mexico wildlife conservation.

Guides are either from local families raised on this land, or marine biologists studying the whales and other marine life. Each guide must do a yearly training to ensure they’re compliant with any new regulations.

The boats used are called panga boats , which is a type of fishing boat that moves quietly through the water so it doesn’t disturb the whales or calves. Each boat’s time in the bay with the whales is limited, and the bay never has more than a few boats in it at once.

best activities to do in Mexico

72. snorkel the sea of cortez.

When visiting La Paz, Mexico , don’t miss taking a boat tour to the Sea of Cortez (AKA Gulf of California). This narrow gulf lies between mainland Mexico and the Baja Peninsula, and is a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

On a boat trip in the Sea of Cortez , you’ll see an abundance of wildlife — like dolphins, whales and sea lions. Once you jump in the water to snorkel, juvenile sea lions may even come swim up right beside you! You’ll also visit the uninhabited islands of Isla Espiritu Santo and Isla Los Islotes.

🐠 Mexico Fun Fact: Diver Jacques Cousteau famously called the Sea of Cortez “the aquarium of the world.”

73. Ride the El Chepe Train in Copper Canyon

The Barranca del Cobre, or Copper Canyon, is the eighth largest canyon on Earth! It is the second largest canyon in North America (after the Grand Canyon), and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

To see it, take the El Chepe Express Train , which goes through some areas of the canyon and other beautiful landscapes in North Mexico. There are route options, but many board in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, and travel about 220 miles to Creel pueblo magico (magic town) in Chihuahua, Mexico. 

74. Visit Hotel California in Todos Santos

While strolling through downtown in the Todos Santos pueblo magico (magic town), make sure to stop in at Hotel California. This is the hotel urban legend says inspired the Eagles’ hit song; though lead singer Don Henley denies it.

Still, no visit to the bohemian beach town of Todos Santos, Mexico is complete without walking through the entryway arches of Hotel California in Mexico. One of the best things to do in Todos Santos Mexico is enjoy a cocktail at Hotel California after a day of exploring the town.

75. SUP to the Cabo Arch at Land’s End

Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, AKA “Los Cabos,” are among the safest places in Mexico to vacation. They are only about 30-minutes from one another, so many visit both on a Cabo vacation.

Located on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, one of the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas is visit El Arco (The Arch) at Land’s End. You can boat, kayak or even do a Cabo Arch SUP Tour on a stand-up paddle board, to see this iconic natural rock archway.

Best Cabo Tours to El Arco

76. see la bufadora blowhole.

Just outside the beautiful port city of Ensenada, Mexico lies La Bufadora, a natural wonder in the Punta Banda Peninsula of Baja California state.

La Bufadora, meaning “the blowhole,” is a natural rock formation that has a hole which shoots water into the air 100-feet (30 m) above the ocean. It is one the largest blowholes in the world, along with Halona Blowhole in Hawaii and Hummanaya Blowhole in Sri Lanka.

Sitting right on the coast, La Bufadora’s waterspout is caused by waves pushing air into a sea cave below. The air gets trapped, and when the waves recede out of the cave, the water bursts quickly upwards. This repeats about every 15-20 seconds, all throughout the day.

Visitors waiting to witness this water explosion up close can gather just next to it at the raised viewing platform. From there, you can safely enjoy the magnificent sight and the thunderous sound of the water explosion!

Among the best things to do in Ensenada, you can easily drive your rental car to La Bufadora or join a group tour. Many tours combine a stop at La Bufadora with other local activities like horseback riding or wine tasting in Valle de Guadalupe , known as “the Napa Valley of Mexico.”

Submitted by Olivia from Girl With Blue Sails

77. See Humpback Whales at Cabo Pulmo National Park

Cabo Pulmo is located in the Sea of Cortez, famously called “the aquarium of the world” by diver and 1970s TV personality, Jacques Cousteau. It is located about 90-minutes north of San Jose del Cabo (and the Los Cabos Airport), in a protected Mexico national park.

During the winter months, this is the best place to see humpback whales in Mexico as they migrate past from about late-November to early-April. If you’re visiting in the summer, Cabo Pulmo is known as one of the best places to snorkel in Mexico, with many taking a Cabo Pulmo snorkeling tour .

Best Cabo Whale Tours

Mexico travel tips & frequently asked questions, is mexico safe for tourists .

This is the #1 most asked question about Mexico travel. As someone who’s been to half the states in Mexico and felt quite safe, I believe Mexico travel safety is possible for everyone if you avoid unsafe parts of the country, listen to your intuition and stay aware of your surroundings.

As safety is a feeling not a fact, and you’re never really safe anywhere (if you think about it) , I do my best to break down this complex topic in this article, Is Mexico Safe? In it, I also highlight safe places in Mexico to travel.

🎧 Prefer podcasts? Check out this Mexico podcast episode with Mexico safety tips and general travel tips.

What’s the best time to visit Mexico? 

Weather in Mexico varies a lot from region to region. If you’re visiting any of the beachfront Mexican vacation spots, the best time to visit is in the cooler months of November to April. During this time, the temperatures are about 70°-80°F day and night, and there’s less humidity.

The one exception to this is the Baja Peninsula beaches on the west coast of Mexico. Winters are the best time for whale watching in Baja, but for Baja California beaches , you’ll want the warmer Mexico weather in the Spring and Summer months.

If you’re visiting Central Mexico, Spring and Fall are the best times. Winters can be cold (think 45°F at night in Mexico City ), and summers are rainy. However, Central Mexico has an “Eternal Spring” climate, so temperatures do average a pleasant 68°F for much of the year.

What do I include on my Mexico packing list?

Mexico is a big country, with varied climates. While most Mexico beaches and beach towns have warm temperatures all year, you’ll want to double check the weather in the place you’re headed, as there’s more temperature fluctuations than most people realize.

🧳 For a detailed guide about packing for Mexico, head to The Ultimate Packing List for Mexico .

As a general rule, Mexicans tend to dress on the conservative side. Even in hotter places and pueblos (small towns), jeans and long sleeves are the norm. While on beaches it’s normal to see shorts and sandals, in cities you’ll definitely stand out.

Final Thoughts: Best Things to Do in Mexico

Mexico is an amazing country — and completely unlike what most people think it is. That applies both to how many perceive it as unsafe (as someone who’s done solo female travel in Mexico , I dispute this wholeheartedly), and that Mexico is just a country of beaches.

As you’ve seen, there are stunning beaches on this list, but there’s so many more Mexico attractions to explore. From ancient ruins and epic Mexico waterfalls, to swimmable cenotes in the Yucatan and Mexico pueblos magicos (magical towns), you’ll never run out of Mexico things to do.

So what are you waiting for?! Book your flight already ✈️ then get your hotel booked too — and start crossing some Mexico bucket list experiences off your list!

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

Mexico City   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Torresigner | Getty Images

16 Best Things To Do in Mexico City

Mexico City, officially known as Ciudad de México (CDMX), is a growing and vibrant metropolis nestled in the heart of Mexico. The capital city of Mexico offers a blend of history, culture and gastronomy that attracts millions of annual visitors. From

• All Things To Do

Museo Nacional de Antropología Museo Nacional de Antropología

Located within the sprawling Chapultepec Forest , the Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Museum of Anthropology) showcases artifacts from Mexico's pre-Columbian era, dating from about 100 B.C. to A.D. 1521. Housed within the facility’s 22 rooms are artifacts, including the famous Aztec Calendar Stone, known as Piedra del Sol, as well as the ancient statue of Xochipilli, the Aztec god of art, games, beauty, dance and maize (among others). The museum offers a look at how tradition, culture and life were formed in all regions of Mexico, and it also educates visitors on how Mexico’s indigenous descendants live today. 

Past visitors said this is a must-see if you’re interested in the ancient cultures of Mexico/Mesoamerica. Reviewers appreciated that the explanatory text features English translations. The museum is so extensive that many travelers said you can spend a whole day exploring the many collections and exhibits and recommend giving yourself plenty of time to visit. As one of the largest and most visited museums in Mexico, the grounds are also home to a gift shop, a cafeteria and the National Library of Anthropology and History. 

Bosque de Chapultepec Bosque de Chapultepec free

The main park in Mexico City, Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Forest) was once the temporary home of the Aztec empire after its citizens migrated to modern-day Mexico City in the 13th century. Today, the 1,600-acre Chapultepec is Mexico City's largest park and is popular among families seeking respite from the busy and crowded city.

Divided into three sections, the park is home to many cultural interests, such as the presidential residence, the former presidential palace, a zoo and several museums (including the highly recommended Museo Nacional de Antropología ). The park also hosts numerous military monuments and effigies of Aztec kings, as well as restaurants and playgrounds, plus lots of green space for stretching. What's more, the park features a large lake, where visitors and locals alike can rent pedal boats to cruise around the water (a particular highlight for kids). On the weekends, local vendors fill the park and sell everything from souvenirs to art to snacks.

Palacio de Bellas Artes Palacio de Bellas Artes free

Considered the cultural center of Mexico City, the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts) is a must-visit. The exterior of this 20th-century palace showcases art nouveau and art deco-style architecture, while the inside features marble floors and vaulted glass windows. 

In addition to its architectural grandeur, the building hosts cultural events in the national theater, including music, dance, theater, opera and literary performances. The museum at the palace also houses several famous murals, including the work of the famous Mexican muralist Rufino Tamayo. On the top floor, you'll find the National Museum of Architecture, which showcases the work and lives of famous Mexican architects, and multiple art museums and galleries. 

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Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Zócalo attracts throngs of visitors and locals, so visit in the early morning or afternoon during a weekday to avoid the heaviest crowds. – Kayla Hui

Officially known as Plaza de la Constitución, El Zócalo is the main public square and one of the most recognizable places in Mexico City. It’s also one of the world’s largest city squares. It contains a giant Mexican flag at its center and has been the centerpiece of public gatherings since the days of the Aztec empire (it was considered the ceremonial center of Tenochtitlán). The site also hosts annual, widely attended religious events during Holy Week and for Corpus Christi, as well as fairs, concerts, and parades. Several historic buildings also border the square, including the city's national cathedral , the National Palace  and federal buildings.

Museo Frida Kahlo Museo Frida Kahlo

One of the best-known museums in Mexico City exhibits the life and work of its most famous artist: Frida Kahlo. The museum, located in the Coyoacan suburb, is also known as La Casa Azul (The Blue House), and was Kahlo's former residence. It hosts some impressive examples of her works, but travelers say that the best part of visiting the house is seeing where the artist lived and painted with her husband, artist Diego Rivera. Along with paintings by both artists, folk art, photos, documents, books and furnishings, the house also displays personal objects.

Recent visitors to the property said it's a must-see for fans of the artist, saying it shows her life and work in a very personal light. Reviewers were particularly impressed with the display of her clothing and dresses. If you want to take photos, there is an additional modest “permit” fee. 

Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe free

U.S. News Insider Tip: During the summer months, pack a hat and water bottle (there is little shade within the complex). If you plan to use the bathroom on site, bring a couple of pesos with you to use the bathroom and buy toilet paper. – Kayla Hui 

The Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe (Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe) is an important religious site in Mexico City. Construction for the first shrine built to honor the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe started in 1695 on Tepeyac Hill. However, nearly 300 years' worth of construction and environmental damage threatened the integrity of the basilica, so a new basilica was built on the same plaza in the 1970s.

Templo Mayor Templo Mayor

Before Spanish colonization, Templo Mayor served as the religious center for the Aztec people. When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the early 16th century, the temple was among many structures that were destroyed and a new cathedral was built on top of the ruins. It wasn't until 1978 that the temple dedicated to the Aztec gods Huitzilopochtli and Tláloc (gods of war and water) was unearthed in the heart of Mexico City. Today, the area remains an active archeological site and the adjoining museum houses thousands of  artifacts, including 2,500 wooden objects from the site. 

Recent visitors said it's fascinating to see the ancient ruins that are tucked away in the center of the city. Many said it's worth spending time in the museum as well, but the site and scale can't match up to the massive Museo Nacional de Antropología . Still, the whole complex has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Mexico City's most popular attractions. If you’re visiting during the summer months, travelers suggest you time your visit for the morning to avoid the sweltering midday heat. Reviewers also warn that most of the information is listed in Spanish only.

Museo de Arte Popular Museo de Arte Popular

U.S. News Insider Tip: Ditch the large bags and water bottles prior to your visit as you may be denied entry. – Kayla Hui

This folk art museum features handicrafts from all across Mexico and details the country's history and its many cultures. If you want to find out more about the country’s indigenous communities, this is the place to go, according to travelers. Exhibits include glasswork from Tecali, pottery from Michoacán, masks from Chiapas and alebrijes , the colorful painted animal figures from Oaxaca, among other treasures. Make sure to take time to admire the building itself – the 1920s art deco building was the former headquarters of the fire department.

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Chalpultepec Castle Chalpultepec Castle

U.S. News Insider Tip: Sundays are free for all residents of Mexico and expats living in Mexico, so try to avoid visiting that day if you can. It can get crowded, so it’s recommended to go in the morning when the castle first opens. – Kayla Hui

Constructed beginning in 1725, Chalpultepec Castle has served many purposes in its centuries of use; it was a military academy, an observatory, and the only castle in North America to house rulers, including Emperor Maximilian I and his wife Empress Carlota. It would later be established as the National Museum of History by Lázaro Cárdenas in 1939, which would open the castle to visitors. Located at the entrance of Chalpultepec Park , it’s a historical site that can’t be missed on your next visit to Mexico City. 

Catedral Metropolitana Catedral Metropolitana free

Mexico's national cathedral – the vaulting, austere, ornate church on the Zócalo' s north end – was once the site of an ancient Aztec precinct, so it has housed the city's spiritual core for centuries. The cathedral was built between 1573 and 1813 after the Spanish conquest of Tenochtitlan and is considered one of Mexico City's many must-see attractions. What’s more, the cathedral is one of the largest churches in Latin America. It’s believed that the materials used to construct the church were taken from the destroyed pyramids and structures belonging to the Aztecs. Highlights of the massive cathedral include five naves, 14 chapels, two of the largest 18th-century organs in the Americas, 150 windows and a painting by famed Spanish artist Bartolome Esteban Murillo.

Depending on your interest in Mexican history and architecture, you could spend anywhere from an hour to a half a day at the cathedral (it’s free to enter). Past visitors recommended paying to take a tour of the interior with a member of the cathedral’s staff, who reviewers say offer a wealth of information about the cathedral’s far-reaching history. According to recent visitors, tours cost approximately 100 Mexican pesos (about $6). Recent visitors said the massive structure is stunning to behold, and even if you don't want to take the time to explore the inside, it's worth the photo-op of the exterior. The cathedral is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and admission is free. Many of the best Mexico City walking tours make stops here, which can be another way to hear an in-depth retelling of the cathedral’s history and significance.  For more information, including Mass times, visit the cathedral's website (in Spanish).

Museo Soumaya Museo Soumaya free

From exceptional architecture to more than 66,000 featured works, Museo Soumaya is one of Mexico City’s most iconic museums. Established in 1994, Museo Soumaya’s main goal is to preserve and exhibit Mexico and Europe’s artistry. Currently, it houses the largest collection of works by Auguste Rodin outside of France, in addition to artwork by Diego Rivera, Titian, Picasso, Monet and more. 

Beyond the art, the architecture alone is worth seeing. The exterior of the six-story building is wrapped in mirrored hexagons, and the building is the brainchild of Mexican architect Fernando Romero. Recent travelers say Museo Soumaya is reminiscent of New York City’s Guggenheim (both museums are architecturally stunning and feature a circular interior with each floor organized by art type). Some reviewers recommend starting your visit at the top and winding your way down. 

Palacio Nacional Palacio Nacional free

The National Palace holds the federal executive branch of the Mexican government and sits along Mexico City's main public square, El Zócalo . The palace itself is a massive, ornate building that contains several gardens, murals and fountains in the Spanish Renaissance architectural style. Its highlights are several Diego Rivera murals painted in panoramic style across the palace's walls, which past visitors say are a must-see. These murals depict the stages of Mexican history, from pre-Columbian days to the current age.

Because the Mexican president lives and works within the palace, visitors can only access the site on a guided tour. Tours are free, but can’t be booked in advance online. According to recent visitors, you must go to the ticket office at the Museum of Art of the Ministry of Finance & Public Credit, where you can inquire about tour availability and make reservations in person (this is also where tours depart from). Some reviewers reported success booking tickets in advance by emailing [email protected] with information about the preferred tour date and number of people attending. Along the approximately hourlong tours, you’ll see the Rivera mural collections and the courtyards. You may also get the chance to glimpse the exterior of the legislative chambers. 

Museo Casa Luis Barragán Museo Casa Luis Barragán

Luis Barragán was a prominent Mexican architect renowned for his modernist style, and his former home – which was first constructed in 1947 and now functions as a museum – is one of the finest examples of his work. The museum is an off-the-beaten-path attraction that travelers say will please all, even those not schooled in architectural history. The house is known for its vivid colors, brilliant use of natural light and its impressive garden with a maze of corridors and trees. In 2004, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Recent visitors said the history of the house, in addition to its interesting architecture, is captivating. However, a handful of recent reviewers were disappointed with the ticket reservation process. To visit, you must book a self-guided or guided tour (available in Spanish and English). Self-guided visits are only available on Thursdays at select times. Tickets for self-guided tours cost 450 Mexican pesos (about $26) per person (note that children 12 and younger are not permitted in the house). Guided tours are available at select times Monday through Wednesday, Friday and Saturday Tickets for guided tours cost more. Tickets are released every Tuesday at noon (Mexico City time).  

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Torre Latinoamericana Torre Latinoamericana

Open since 1956, Torre Latinoamericana, the 44-story skyscraper in Centro Histórico, is the place to go if you want the best views of the city. Similar to the Empire State Building in New York City , this tower offers visitors jaw-dropping views from its observation deck and restaurant, making it the perfect opportunity to pull out your camera for that Instagram-worthy picture. 

Recent visitors recommended heading up to the top of the tower during sunset to admire the shifting light as it illuminates buildings like the neighboring Palace of Fine Arts. Travelers also warned that if smog levels are high, you won’t be able to see much from the tower’s peak. Some reviewers recommend spending time in the on-site museum, which details the history of Mexico City and the construction of the tower. 

Teotihuacán Teotihuacán

U.S. News Insider Tip: There is no shade inside the archeological site, so you’ll want to wear a hat. It’s also helpful to have a small backpack to hold a water bottle, sunscreen and toilet paper to use in the washrooms at the site. – Kayla Hui

One of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Mexico City region, Teotihuacán ( teh -o-tee-wa- can ) contains some of the largest pre-Hispanic pyramids in all of Mexico. The site contains many popular constructions, including the Palace of the Plumed Butterfly, which showcases various columns of winged creatures, and the awesome Pyramid of the Sun, which sits at the heart of the small city. The nearby museum, Museo de la Sitio, also holds many artifacts from the period.

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) free

The Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico (Central University City Campus of the National University of Mexico) includes 32 academic programs, the Mexican Olympic stadium, a Mexican cultural center, a nature preserve and the city's Central Library. The main campus is now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city's famous muralists have made their mark on the campus, and travelers recommend you check out the work of famous painter David Alfaro Siqueiros at the Rectorate Tower or the work of Juan O'Gorman at the Central Library. The campus also holds the University Museum of Contemporary Art, an excellent spot for viewing Mexico's more recent cultural offerings. The sculpture garden at the art museum is a particular highlight for past visitors, as is the botanic garden.

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24 Most Beautiful Places in Mexico

From charming small towns to stunning islands, these are the most beautiful places to visit in Mexico.

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Beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, rugged landscapes, and colorful cities galore: Find all this and more in Mexico. While our neighbor to the south is teeming with awe-inspiring locales, narrowing down which are worth a spot on your must-see list can be tricky, especially considering how vast the country is. For this reason, working with someone with in-depth knowledge of the country and its many regions is crucial, says Zachary Rabinor, a T+L A-List Travel Advisor specializing in Mexico and the founder of Journey Mexico . According to the pro, these individuals can offer valuable insights and recommendations based on your interests and preferences, whether that’s searching for the best street food, securing a coveted dinner reservation, or arranging a private driver to take you to and from Mexico’s most iconic attractions.

Ready to start planning your Mexico escape? Travel + Leisure can help: From hidden-gem beaches and mountain towns to world-famous archaeological sites and major metropolises, we’ve rounded up 24 of the most beautiful places in Mexico, according to experts.   

El Pescadero, Baja California Sur

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Rabinor describes El Pescadero as a “hidden gem along the Pacific Coast,” just an hour’s drive from Cabo San Lucas . The small farming community boasts gorgeous swaths of sand — most notably, Cerritos — which, per the pro, are “ideal for surfing and sunbathing.” Rabinor also tells T+L that no trip here is complete without stopping at Barracuda Cantina (conveniently located just steps from Cerritos) to try the Baja fish tacos.

Todos Santos, Baja California Sur

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Just eight miles north of El Pescadero lies the town of Todos Santos , which, according to Rabinor, is renowned for its thriving arts scene and colorful colonial architecture. If that’s not enough to wow you, then the pristine beaches, such as Punta Lobos and Playa La Cachora, definitely will. Rabinor also describes Todos Santos as “a foodie’s paradise” — his personal picks include Docecuarenta   “for some of Baja’s best roasted coffee and freshly baked pastries;” Jazamango , a farm-to-table restaurant led by one of Mexico’s renowned chefs, Javier Plasencia; and “fresh oysters at Oystera .”

Oaxaca City, Oaxaca

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Oaxaca was named the best city in the world in T+L's 2022 World's Best Awards — and it’s easy to see why. What’s more, says Rabinor, this colorful, vibrant city is renowned for its 17th-century architecture, buzzy downtown area, rich Indigenous heritage, and artisan communities. The greenery-filled Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca and the 18th-century Oaxaca Cathedral are also must-visit spots. And, if all of the above weren’t enough to lure you in, then the food and drink scene — famous for its mezcal and moles — certainly will. 

La Paz and Isla Espiritu Santo, Baja California Sur

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According to Rabinor, the capital of Baja California Sur beckons travelers with its “tranquil beaches, Malecón waterfront promenade, and the opportunity to swim with gentle whale sharks.” Plus, says Rabinor, no trip here is complete without a boat ride to the breathtaking Isla Espiritu Santo. A UNESCO World Heritage Site , this small rocky island is known for its secluded beaches and excellent snorkeling and kayaking opportunities — and you may even spot some playful sea lions.

Mexico City, State of Mexico

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According to Rabinor, Mexico’s capital city “seamlessly blends cosmopolitan vibrancy with a rich Indigenous past and history.” He also goes on to describe the cityscape itself as “a fascinating tapestry of old and new — soaring modern skyscrapers stand alongside meticulously preserved colonial architecture.” Must-visit attractions include Templo Mayor,  Palacio de Bellas Artes, Castillo de Chapultepec, and The Pyramids of Teotihuacan (but more on those a bit further down).

Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo

This idyllic island — known for its gorgeous natural surroundings, including powdery white-sand beaches and shallow turquoise waters  —  is about three hours from Cancun . “Holbox exudes a relaxed and laid-back vibe with car-free and unpaved sandy streets, making it the epitome of a barefoot chic vacation,” says Rabinor. The island, part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, is home to abundant marine life and birds, including whale sharks, flamingos, herons, dolphins, and manta rays. For the ultimate adventure, book a bioluminescence kayak tour. 

Merida, Yucatán

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Hope Smith, a travel advisor at Montecito Village Travel , a Virtuoso Agency, tells T+L that some of the richest displays of Mexican culture can be found in Merida , “a city full of wonderful food, beautiful mansions, haciendas, and lush gardens.” Additionally, she says, “You will also find historic Mayan archaeological sites, including Uxmal, La Ruta Puuc, and Chichén Itzá.” For a stay just as eclectic as the city itself, Smith recommends Chablé Yucatán , which she describes as a “five-star experience in a hacienda-style setting.” 

Morelia, Michoacán

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“History enthusiasts will fall in love with Morelia, Michoacán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by lake and mountain views,” says Smith. That’s because it’s chock-full of centuries-old architecture, with the landmark Morelia Cathedral being one of its most famous attractions. Travelers can also carve out an afternoon to explore nearby towns like Pátzcuaro, which, per Smith, is home “to one of the largest plazas in Mexico and great local art shops.”

Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca

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According to Fora travel advisor Natalie Stegman , this under-the-radar Oaxaca beach town is known for its beaches, surfing, and laid-back atmosphere. Here, you’ll find a stretch of sand for every type of traveler, be it bustling Zicatela Beach, which has an abundance of waterfront bars and cafes; the scenic Playa Carrizalillo, where you’ll find golden sand, swaying coconut palms, and turquoise waters; and the tranquil Playa Manzanillo, which, with its calm waters, is perfect for families. And, per Stegman, no trip is complete without taking a detour to nearby Playa del Palmarito, one of the largest turtle nesting beaches along the Mexican Pacific Coast (just note that nesting season takes place between July and January). After a fun-filled day in the sun, rest your head at  Casona Sforza (located directly on the beach) or Hotel Terrestre (where each of the 14 villas has a private pool ). 

San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

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“With its unique blend of Mexican culture and European influences, San Miguel de Allende is a visual masterpiece that will capture your heart,” says Fora travel advisor Elizabeth Kaczka . The city — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — is home to well-preserved buildings adorned with colorful facades and intricate details, which, per Kaczka, “create a picturesque setting.” She also recommends leaving ample time to wander the cobblestone streets, visit the pink-hued Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, and explore the local arts and shopping scenes. And, despite the destination’s charming small-town vibe , it’s teeming with top-rated hotels ranging from the ultra-luxe Rosewood San Miguel De Allende to the boutique Casa Delphine .

Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California Sur

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According to Fora travel advisor Swaylah Faroqi , Valle de Guadalupe is considered the premier wine-producing area of Mexico —  hence why it’s referred to as Mexico’s very own Napa Valley. Per the travel pro, the region has also “gained international recognition for its high-quality wines and stunning landscapes.” Splurge on a stay at the recently opened Montevalle Health & Wellness Resort . This luxury adults-only all-inclusive resort , set on 10 hectares of land dotted with olive trees, lavender plants, and vineyards, offers villa accommodations and state-of-the-art wellness facilities such as a spa, meditation labyrinth, and reflexology path.

Bacalar, Quintana Roo

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The aptly named town of Bacalar is located on Lake Bacalar (sometimes called Bacalar Lagoon) and is known as The Lake (or Lagoon) of Seven Colors for its vibrant shades of blue. “Take a boat ride across the lagoon, visit the cenotes that dot its shores, or simply relax in a hammock while gazing at the mesmerizing hues of the water,” says Kaczka. The destination is home to a handful of unique boutique hotels like Boca de Agua and Habitas Bacalar ; meanwhile, Banyan Tree Vega Bacalar — which will feature a spa designed to resemble a cenote, 35 suites, and an overwater restaurant — is slated to open its doors in 2025.  

Islas Marietas National Park, Nayarit

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Accessible only by boat, Islas Marietas National Park is about one hour from Puerto Vallarta and 15 minutes from Punta Mita. These uninhabited islands are home to abundant marine life, including dolphins, manta rays, and tropical fish galore. As such, they’re especially popular for snorkeling, explains Fora travel advisor Nadia Bess . It’s also here where you’ll find an Instagram-famous hidden beach inside a cave . 

Tepoztlán, Morelos

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“ Situated just a few hours outside of Mexico City, Tepoztlán is similar in feel to San Miguel de Allende but is not as well known,” says Fora travel advisor and co-founder Henley Vazquez . She continues, telling T+L, “It’s designated as a ‘Pueblo Mágico,’ which means it is sacred to Mexican culture.” This charming mountain town is also home to El Tepozteco, an ancient Aztec temple dedicated to Ometochtli-Tepoztēcatl, the god of pulque (an alcoholic beverage), fertility, and drunkenness. 

Sumidero Canyon, Chiapas

The Sumidero Canyon was carved by the Grijalva River and dates back 35 million years.  Here, you’ll find 3,000-foot-tall rock walls, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls. Fora travel advisor Sara Wilcox recommends booking a scenic boat tour for the best views of the canyon. And, if you’re lucky, you may spot majestic wildlife like spider monkeys, crocodiles, jaguars, and snakes. 

Las Coloradas, Yucatán

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Located on the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula — about 3.5 hours from Tulum and the Riviera Maya — Las Coloradas is an Instagram dream come true with its pink-hued waters. (According to Wilcox, this is due to a high concentration of red-colored algae and shrimp.) ”The beautiful pink tones continue thanks to a large population of flamingos, which are attracted to the salt ponds,” says the travel advisor. 

Cabo Pulmo, Baja California Sur

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“Home to one of the most diverse coral reefs in North America, this National Marine Park is truly spectacular,” says Fora travel advisor Amy Shamus of Cabo Pulmo. In addition to pristine beaches, the UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a coral reef-filled shallow bay that hundreds of marine species call home, including but not limited to sea turtles, humpback whales, manta rays, and whale sharks. With all this in mind, it’s no surprise that diving, snorkeling, and swimming are so popular here.

Suytun Cenote, Yucatán

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Cenotes are natural swimming holes that are considered sacred by the Maya. And, while the Yucatán Peninsula boasts several thousand cenotes — each of which is nothing short of awe-inspiring — Suytun Cenote is amongst the most picture-perfect with its circular platform, which makes the perfect setting for your photo. Post-picture, enjoy a refreshing soak in the crystalline waters and take a moment to bask in the subterranean surroundings, with fascinating stalactites and stalagmites from nearly every angle.

Hierve El Agua, Oaxaca

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Whether you choose to hike, swim, or just sit back and admire the natural formations, a trip to Hierve El Agua is truly one for the books. “This absolutely gorgeous historical and natural site is roughly an hour outside of Oaxaca and features travertine rock formations, a petrified waterfall, and multiple natural warm pools, all overlooking jaw-dropping views of the valley below,” says Bess. If you don’t mind waking up early, the travel pro recommends arriving here “just before sunrise” so that you can soak up the gorgeous views and have the place “(almost) all to yourself!” 

Teotihuacan Pyramids, State of Mexico

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These ancient pyramids, which are thought to date back to 100 B.C.E., are just one hour from bustling Mexico City. Its main attraction, the Pyramid of the Sun, clocks in at over 215 feet tall. According to Bess, those who truly want to appreciate the pyramids’ vast size and beauty should take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over them. 

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

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“ Nestled along the Caribbean Sea, Playa del Carmen is a tropical paradise that entices visitors with its turquoise waters and powdery white-sand beaches,” says Kaczka. Beyond the beaches, travelers can choose from an array of activities, be it swimming in cenotes, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or dancing the night away in one of the clubs that line Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue, Playa del Carmen’s main strip). The town also boasts an abundance of hotels and resorts , which include some of Mexico’s best all-inclusive resorts . 

Guanajuato, Guanajuato

As the capital of the eponymous Mexican State, Guanajuato —  a UNESCO World Heritage Site — attracts travelers with its breathtaking architecture and art. You can easily spend hours wandering the quaint cobblestone alleys adorned with vibrant buildings and ornate plazas. Some of Kaczka’s must-dos: Explore the famous Callejón del Beso (Alley of the Kiss), visit the majestic Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city's numerous festivals.”

Chichén Itzá, Yucatán

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Chichén Itzá is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Mexico, and best of all, it’s an easy day trip from Cancun . These ancient Mayan ruins span about four square miles, and the massive El Castillo (also known as the Temple of Kukulcan), which towers over the other monuments at 78 feet, is arguably the most famous of the bunch. The Great Ballcourt features intricate stone carvings, as does the Temple of the Warriors. Don’t miss the Wall of Skulls, where you’ll find hundreds of, yes, stone skull carvings.  

Copper Canyon, Chihuahua

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Also known as the Grand Canyon of Mexico, Copper Canyon is comprised of not one but six separate canyons. This natural wonder, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompasses over 25,000 square miles in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range. While many choose to experience Copper Canyon and its postcard-worthy surroundings on foot or horseback, those aren’t the only options. Instead, says Kaczka,  “Hop aboard the Chihuahua al Pacífico railway, also known as the Copper Canyon Train, for a scenic journey through rugged landscapes, towering cliffs, and picturesque villages.”

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Guadalajara

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Guadalajara may be Mexico's second largest city and the capital of the state of Jalisco, but it is a city that has still managed to preserve the independent character of a town conscious of its own traditions.

The city exudes a distinct European atmosphere, with wide tree-lined boulevards, leafy plazas, Spanish-influenced architecture, and sidewalks humming with activities and attractions. But Guadalajara is also famous as a center of mariachi music, and is a stronghold of Charreadas, the Mexican version of the rodeo.

The Tapatios, as the people of Guadalajara call themselves, celebrate the popular folk dance, known as Jarabe Tapatio. These three things together are often what travelers imagine when they think of Mexican folk traditions, and Guadalajara is at the heart of them all.

It's also an easy city to explore, thanks to its mild subtropical climate. It's easy to navigate, as well, thanks to the city center's four magnificent squares, handily connected and arranged in the form of a cross, with the city's principal tourist attractions and things to do set around them.

Guadalajara is as cultural and diverse as Mexico City, but much smaller in size and less hectic in energy. For ideas on the best places to visit, read our list of the top tourist attractions in Guadalajara.

See also: Where to Stay in Guadalajara

1. Instituto Cultural de Cabañas

2. guadalajara cathedral, 3. expiatory temple (templo expiatorio del santísimo sacramento), 4. the government palace, 5. teatro degollado, 6. guadalajara zoo, 7. josé clemente orozco's frescoes, 8. rotonda de los jaliscienses ilustres, 9. parque agua azul & bosque colomos, 10. the regional museum of guadalajara, 11. the churches of santa mónica and san agustin, 12. guachimontones archaeological site, 13. charros de jalisco, 14. tlaquepaque, 15. haciendas, where to stay in guadalajara for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in guadalajara, guadalajara, mexico - climate chart.

In the downtown historic core, the World Heritage-listed Instituto Cultural Cabañas (formerly called Hospicio Cabañas) is a splendid Neoclassical former hospital and orphanage built at the beginning of the 19th century.

Today, the complex is home to the Cabañas Cultural Institute and the Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Besides the building's graceful architecture, based on similar designs in Paris and Madrid, the main highlight here is the collection of 57 magnificent frescoes painted by José Clemente Orozco , which are widely considered to be among his finest works.

Most of the murals adorn the ceiling and walls around the vast nave and cupola, including his famous The Man of Fire ( El Hombre del Fuego ) mural . Guided tours are available in English and Spanish and are highly recommended.

Afterwards, visit the huge Market Hall (Mercado Libertad) nearby, where regional costumes, pottery, paper flowers, and musical instruments are offered for sale. It is the largest indoor market in Latin America.

Address: Cabañas 8, Las Fresas, 44360 Guadalajara, Jalisco

While occupying much of the lovely public square known as Plaza de Armas , the beautiful Guadalajara Cathedral (Catedral de Guadalajara) stands with its façade fronting the adjoining Plaza de los Laureles, a smaller square with an impressive fountain.

Built between 1558 and 1616 and much altered in later periods, the cathedral, although mostly Baroque in appearance, shows a remarkable mingling of different styles, particularly in its fine mostly Gothic interior. Highlights include its many chapels with their paintings attributed to Cristóbal de Villalpando, Miguel Cabrera, and Murillo, some of Mexico's finest artists. A particularly beautiful example by Murillo - the Assumption of the Virgin Mary - hangs over the doorway of the sacristy.

Address: Av Alcalde 10, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jalisco

Although one of Guadalajara's newer churches - construction started in 1897 and didn't end until 1972 - the Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento is undoubtedly one of the finest religious structures in the city.

Built in neo-Gothic style, the church is famous for its richly embellished exterior and many European-made components. Highlights include its finely carved doors inlaid with bronze reliefs, exquisite mosaics from Italy, a unique German clock, and a superb carillon capable of playing 25 different pieces of music (it can also be played from inside the church) while figures of the 12 Apostles move around it.

Also of interest are the building's fine stained-glass windows from France and the richly decorated Golden Altar with its many biblical stories.

Address: Av López Cotilla 935, Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jalisco

Steps from the cathedral in the finest of Guadalajara's four main squares, the Plaza de Armas , stands the Government Palace (Palacio de Gobierno). Started in 1643 and completed in 1774, this splendid Baroque building is well worth a visit with its many columns displaying zigzag ornamentation, large volutes, and Churrigueresque pilasters (estípites).

Notable interior highlights include its fine old staircase and, in one of the council chambers, a number of murals depicting the War of Independence, along with the heroes of the three Mexican wars, painted by famous fresco-painter José Clemente Orozco, a native of the state of Jalisco.

Address: Avenida Ramón Corona, Guadalajara, Jalisco

Opposite the cathedral, the Neoclassical Teatro Degollado is the city's most important - and beautiful - performing arts venue. Completed in 1866, this impressive theater is worth visiting for its fine architectural details and lavish interior design. The exterior features 16 Corinthian columns and a marble relief of Apollo surrounded by the nine muses.

Known for its excellent acoustics, the theater is home to the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jalisco and Guadalajara City Ballet, among other local cultural institutions, and it also hosts international Mariachi competitions. Even if you can't catch a performance here, it's worth poking your head inside to gape at the plush, gilded interior. Like a red and gold layer cake, five tiers of balconies soar above the stage, and dramatic frescoes depicting scenes from Dante's Divine Comedy adorn the ceiling.

Address: Calle Degollado s/n, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Just a few minutes north of the city is the Guadalajara Zoo (Zoológico Guadalajara). In addition to its fine setting - it overlooks the stunning Santiago Gorge - this fun attraction is one of the largest and most important zoos in Latin America.

Highlights of its collection of animals include many rare species such as white lions, Bengal tigers, and black panthers, plus a large primate contingent featuring gorillas and orangutans, along with a number of native Mexican species such as Mexican wolves.

Other highlights include a large aquarium and a reptile house with numerous lizards, snakes, and spiders. The zoo is also noted for its large aviaries, in particular two dedicated to songbirds and tropical species. Kids will love Safari Masai Mara, a fun ride through the African savannah stocked with antelope, rhinos, and other species.

Address: Av Paseo del Zoologico 600, Huentitán El Alto, 44390 Guadalajara, Jalisco

Spread across the city are a number of sites featuring artwork by one of Mexico's most renowned painters, José Clemente Orozco (1883 - 1949). Some of his finest work can be seen in the form of frescoes in a former chapel in the Instituto Cultural Cabañas complex. Painted between 1938 and 1939, these huge murals portray the Four Elements, Art, and Science , as well as the Conquest and the Four Riders of the Apocalypse .

The high point is the superb fresco The Man of Fire ( El Hombre del Fuego ) in the dome.

Various rooms around the complex are also of interest as they contain a variety of exhibits devoted to Orozco's life and works. Another site containing examples of Orozco's frescos is the Government Palace (Palacio de Gobierno).

Just outside Guadalajara Cathedral in Plaza de Armas, the Rotonda de Los Jaliscienses Ilustres (Rotunda of the Illustrious Jaliscienses) is one of the city's most distinctive monuments and lives in a beautiful park-like setting.

Constructed in 1952 in honor of the state's best-known historical figures - including famed artist José Clemente Orozco, whose work can be seen in murals across the city - this large circular stone monument features 17 tall columns and houses the remains of 98 important individuals. Statues of some of these individuals adorn the surrounding lawns.

Hot Tip: Visit the site after nightfall when it's lit up in spectacular fashion, an effect heightened by a flaming cauldron in the middle of the rotunda.

Address: Av. Fray Antonio Alcalde 108, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Guadalajara's most popular public park is the beautiful Parque Agua Azul, literally translated as the Blue Water Park. Opened in 1952, the park covers an area of some 168,000 square meters and is a wonderful place to stroll among the landscaped gardens and trees.

Highlights include a tropical orchid house, as well as a Butterfly House and an aviary, both home to a wide variety of indigenous species. Also of interest is the adjacent Casa de las Artesanías , an area where local folk art is exhibited and sold, as well as a small anthropological museum (the Museum of Paleontology ), an open-air theater, and a flower market.

Another popular park in Guadalajara is Bosque Colomos . Densely wooded in parts and punctuated by meandering waterways where ducks glide, this peaceful green space offers a relaxing respite from the city buzz. Other highlights here include a tranquil Japanese garden, running tracks, and a cultural center with art-related workshops in genres such as folk dancing, painting, drawing, and sculpture. Bird-watching and picnics are other popular things to do here.

Address: Calz Independencia Sur 973, Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

The Regional Museum of Guadalajara (Museo Regional de Guadalajara) is just a short stroll from the Plaza de Armas and is worth a quick visit.

Housed in a former 18th-century seminary that also served as a headquarters and prison during the War of Independence, the museum opened in 1918 and features numerous Pre-Columbian finds and scattered ethnographical displays, but note that the descriptions are mostly in Spanish.

Highlights include 14 dioramas and exhibits dealing with local fossils and geography, a large mineral collection that includes an 800-kilogram meteorite, and a fine collection of colonial-era artwork, as well as contemporary and modern art.

Depending on the day of your visit, some rooms might be closed.

Address: Calle Liceo 60, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jalisco

Guadalajara boasts many splendid old churches and most are easily accessible from the historic city center. One of the prettiest, the 17th-century Church of Santa Mónica (Templo de Santa Mónica), lies a few blocks northwest of the cathedral and is notable for its Baroque façade, with its twisted columns and intricately carved ornamentation including grapes, cobs of maize, angels, double eagles, and symbols of religious orders.

Also of interest is the splendid Church of San Agustin (Templo de San Agustín), part of a former convent built in the 16th century with later Baroque flourishes and boasting a splendid interior that includes a fine altar with an image of the church's patron saint. Other Baroque churches of interest are the 17th-century San Francisco, San Felipe Neri, and Aránzazu Churches.

Address: Esq Degollado, Calle de Morelos, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jalisco

Mexico is steeped in thousands of years of indigenous culture, the most well-known of which are the Mayan and Aztec cultures.

But Mexico is home to many more indigenous tribes who have left their marks on history. The Teuchitlan people lived in what is now known as the Tequila Valley outside of Guadalajara, from 300 BC through AD 900, and have left monumental structures behind, which make for a great day trip from Guadalajara.

These structures are known as the archaeological site of Guachimontones, distinct circular step pyramid structures that look similar to beehives and seem to pop out of the grassy valley floor. This is one of the only examples of rounded pyramids in Mexico, though excavations at other Teuchitlan sites reveal that there may be similar structures.

It is one of the most spectacular sites in Jalisco, but be sure to arrive prepared with comfortable shoes and water. It's a bit of a challenging climb up to the archaeological site.

Sunday is a very special day in Guadalajara. Sunday is the day that Guadalajara comes alive with the tradition of charreria. What exactly is charreria? As of 1933, charreria is the official national sport of Mexico. It's often aligned with the rodeo in the United States, but it has distinct differences.

Charreria can trace its roots back to the 16th century, when horses were brought to Mexico on Spanish ships. The charreria culture started on the haciendas, predominantly in the state of Jalisco. Haciendas were large, ranch-style homes on sprawling acres of land with many employees and farmhands. The original charros (charreria competitors) were farm workers, who would hold competitions to show off their horse skills.

Fast forward to the 1920s and 30s, when the hacienda culture had ended and the rise of formal charreadas began. Today it is a national sport performed all across the country and one that is deeply rooted in the traditions and history of Mexico.

One of the best spots in Guadalajara to watch the charreria events is at the Lienzo Charro. Charros here are not paid but rather participate in the events out of sheer passion. The event always starts at noon and features about nine different competitions to show off horse-riding and wrangling skills. The entire event is usually over by 2pm – just in time for lunch.

Charreria events are always entertaining, especially in Guadalajara. The stands come alive with spectators who come for the revelry, the socialization, and, of course, the competition. Afterwards it's not uncommon for families and friends to all have a big meal together. It's a day of family, history, and cultural pride.

Just outside Guadalajara is the small village of Tlaquepaque. Tlaquepaque is a shopper's and art-lover's paradise, splashed in color, packed with galleries and boutiques, and restaurants.

One of Mexico's famous Magical Towns, Tlaquepaque has a history rooted in pottery and sculpture tradition, which is why it has attracted so many artists and artisans over the years to open their own shops and galleries. Today it is home to more than 200 workshops and art galleries.

In this stunning small town, visitors love to meander the cobblestone streets, which are often flanked with buildings festooned with colorful flags, murals, or outdoor art.

Several museums can be found in Tlaquepaque, as well, like the Panduro Pottery National Prize Museum or the Regional Museum of Ceramics of Tlaquepaque . The latter sits inside a house that dates back to the 17th century.

Since Tlaquepaque is so close to Guadalajara, it can easily be done for an hour or two, if not for a full day. But Tlaquepaque also has great boutique hotels for people who want to linger a bit longer.

An important part of the history of Western Mexico is the hacienda culture that was in place for the better part of 300 years. Since the arrival of the Spanish up until the Mexican Revolution, haciendas played an integral role in the culture and society of Mexico.

While hacienda culture is long gone, many of the historic buildings still remain. Many of them have even been renovated and modernized for the 21st century and converted into luxury hotels. A trip outside the city to visit or stay at one of these haciendas provides such a unique glimpse into the past of Jalisco and the area surrounding Guadalajara.

One of the most famous haciendas is Hacienda El Carmen Hotel & Spa , which is about an hour from Guadalajara. Sitting on a sprawling amount of land, the 16th-century building has been in the hands of one family for generations. Today it is a gorgeous hotel with a fabulous restaurant, spa, horseback riding, and lovely views over the rolling mountains and farmland.

In the city proper, Villa Ganz Hotel Boutique is another historic hacienda that has been converted into a boutique hotel. This villa sits in the vibrant Lafayette neighborhood, known for its galleries, museums, restaurants, and shopping.

If you're visiting Guadalajara for the first time, the best place to stay is in the historic city center. The main tourist attractions lie a short walk from each other in this central area, including Guadalajara cathedral, Government Palace, and the Rotunda of Illustrious Men. Some of the city's luxury hotels are a short taxi ride from the historical center in an upscale area of the city, near Expo Guadalajara. Here are some highly rated hotels in these convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Next door to Expo Guadalajara, The Westin features in-room spa treatments and a fitness center.
• Step back in time at the Quinta Real Guadalajara , a five-star hotel in a historic garden oasis in the heart of the city.
• In an exclusive area of the city, about a 15-minute drive from the Plaza de Armas, Hotel Riu Plaza Guadalajara has contemporary guest rooms, with accents in bright, bold hues, and an inviting spa and outdoor pool.
• Not far from the Hotel Riu Plaza Guadalajara is Casa Habita , a design-forward hotel that is heavy on chic, vintage vibes, from its rooftop plunge pool to deep soaking tubs and minimalist (yet modern) accents.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Hotel Morales Historical & Colonial Downtown Core , with a heated rooftop pool, drips with history and sits within walking distance of the city's major historic attractions.
• In a beautiful old mansion, about a seven-minute walk from the cathedral, the boutique, family-owned Casa Pedro Loza has individually styled rooms with striking color schemes and stylish accents.
• Also near the cathedral as well as Teatro Degollado, One Guadalajara Centro Historico sports a sleek, modern decor. Breakfast is included in the rates.

Budget Hotels:

• In a great location near the top sites in the historic center, the BEST WESTERN Gran Hotel Centro Historico has basic rooms and a swimming pool.
• Also near the historic center, Dali Plaza Hotel offers clean, spacious rooms for a budget-friendly price.
• Another good option is the colonial-style Hotel la Rotonda , just steps away from the cathedral.

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