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Best cheap mexico vacations.

trips to mexico on a budget

With a favorable exchange rate ($1 to approximately 17 pesos), free beaches and many options for reasonably priced accommodations, Mexico is perfect for a budget-friendly escape. But where should you spend your hard-earned cash? To help you decide, U.S. News created this list of the best cheap Mexico vacations, factoring in expert and reader feedback, free things to do and hotel costs. Vote for your favorite affordable Mexico destination below to help with next year's ranking. And if you're looking for more ways to save on travel, browse this list of cheap all-inclusive resorts . (Note: The U.S. Department of State advises against traveling to certain Mexican states due to crime; check the website for information before booking your vacation, and be cautious if you decide to travel.)   

Mexico City

Isla holbox, san miguel de allende, isla mujeres, playa del carmen.

trips to mexico on a budget

This Riviera Nayarit beach town charms expats and tourists alike for its stunning scenery and energetic atmosphere. It also makes for a cost-effective Mexico vacation. Sayulita sits 25 miles northwest of Puerto Vallarta, a hub for affordable flights , and you can find plenty of hotels and vacation rentals for less than $150. What's more, Sayulita's top activities – surfing, hiking and relaxing on the beach – cost next to nothing (though you may want to rent a golf cart for the day for $50 rather than taking pricey taxis to non-walkable destinations).

trips to mexico on a budget

Mexico's largest city is perfect for a shoestring city break. Mexico City offers a host of free attractions, including the National Palace, Museo Soumaya and Bosque de Chapultepec (the largest urban park in Latin America) and its zoo, while others like the Palacio de Bellas Artes are free on certain days of the week. You can also explore Mexico City's picturesque neighborhoods if you rent a bike or go on a free walking tour. Fill up on tasty yet inexpensive Mexican cuisine at taquerias and street food stalls, and save even more dough with a spring visit, when you'll encounter comfortable temperatures and reasonable hotel rates.

trips to mexico on a budget

Tulum's heyday as an untouched vacation destination may be over, with luxury resorts now lining the shore, but it's still possible to visit this Bohemian beach town in Riviera Maya on a budget. Cancún (about 80 miles northeast), remains a relatively affordable flight destination, and inexpensive buses can shuttle you the rest of the way. Plus, if you're willing to book away from the beach, boutique hotels in downtown Tulum (Tulum Pueblo) are priced well below $100 per night. While here, spend most of your time lounging on free public beaches like Playa Paraíso and visiting the affordable Tulum Ruins.

trips to mexico on a budget

While Isla Holbox is difficult to reach (frugal travelers will need to take a bus and a ferry after landing in Cancún), that's part of the charm of this sleepy paradise. Plus, you'll find endless ways to rejuvenate once you arrive. Budget-friendly activities include lazing on the beach, kayaking and admiring Holbox's murals and street art. With ultra-thrifty accommodation options like camping and hostels, you can stay for less than $20 per night, but you'll also find beachfront hotel options for just more than $100 nightly.

trips to mexico on a budget

This charmer in the highlands of central Mexico entices visitors with its Spanish colonial architecture, buzzing restaurants and artistic beauty. What's not to love? For some, it's the price tag. But even economical tourists can enjoy the best aspects of San Miguel de Allende. This city is best explored on foot, so spend some time winding through the picturesque El Jardín and the lush Parque Benito Juárez, or perusing art galleries. Instead of shopping at pricey boutiques, find trinkets and textiles at Mercado de Artesanías. And for sustenance, stick to fondas (casual restaurants), taco carts and cafes to get the most bang for your buck.

trips to mexico on a budget

The long-reigning paragon of a Mexico beach getaway, Cancún is also one of Mexico's most cost-effective vacation spots. With Cancún's competitive market of all-inclusive resorts (from adults-only options to family-friendly resorts where kids stay free ), many of which offer built-in activities and entertainment, vacationers will have their pick of accommodations that are easy on the wallet. Between vacation packages and plenty of flight options, budgeters will have money to spare for popular excursions, like a day trip to the Chichén Itzá archaeological site or a visit to Xcaret Park.

trips to mexico on a budget

Just a short ferry ride from Cancún, the more tranquil Isla Mujeres is surrounded by dazzling water ideal for low-cost activities like snorkeling at Garrafón de Castilla and lounging on Playa Norte. Though all-inclusive deals are more limited, affordable hostels, hotels and vacation rentals are never far from the shore on this small island. What's more, Isla Mujeres is home to a number of local restaurant options that won't break the bank. To save on transportation, plan on taking a tricycle taxi from the ferry dock, then renting a bicycle or walking for daily outings. 

trips to mexico on a budget

Yucatán's vibrant capital city and its mansion-lined streets may have been a haven for the well-to-do in the Gilded Age, but today, travelers can visit Mérida on the cheap. The city boasts a bevy of free things to do (think: visiting art museums, embarking on a walking tour from Plaza Grande or admiring mansions on Paseo de Montejo – modeled after Paris' Champs-Élysées). Plus, with Mérida's wide range of dining and hotel options, visitors can find mouthwatering cuisine in the most unsuspecting (read: affordable) establishments and stay in charming Spanish colonial digs for less than $100 per night.

trips to mexico on a budget

Embracing slow travel is not only the best way to capture the spirit of this central Mexico city; it's also the most cost-effective. Guanajuato's picturesque plazas, narrow streets and vivid hues make it ideal for aimless wandering. Otherwise, sightseers can hike to the El Pipila lookout, see a $6 performance at the gorgeous Teatro Juárez or dance the night away at a salsa bar. While flights to Guanajuato can be costly, the splurge may be worth it to avoid a long bus ride from Mexico City. Plus, once you arrive, you can snag a room in a guesthouse for a steal.

trips to mexico on a budget

In Oaxaca, you'll want to save most of your pesos for sampling its iconic cuisine. Luckily, Oaxaca's markets serve must-try regional specialties like mole and tlayudas (tortillas with beans, cheese and other options) that will fill you up for a bargain. This southern Mexico city's other cheap thrills include touring architectural wonders like the Templo de Santo Domingo, people-watching in the lively Zócalo main square and admiring local art at galleries and studios. Plus, by visiting during the low season (November through March), you can also score some deals on hotels.  

trips to mexico on a budget

Another Riviera Maya hot spot, Playa del Carmen is home to stunning stretches of powdery white sand and the luxury beach resorts to match. But by planning a shoulder season visit in April or May, thrifty travelers can find solid deals on all-inclusive vacation packages at glitzy resorts. Alternatively, visitors can book more modest hotels off the beach for a fraction of the price and enjoy low-cost meals at local restaurants. While lounging on the beach is guaranteed to protect your pocketbook, cost-conscious visitors can also explore downtown Playa del Carmen's Parque Los Fundadores for free entertainment. 

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

trips to mexico on a budget

Zihuatanejo

trips to mexico on a budget

Puerto Vallarta

trips to mexico on a budget

San Cristobal de las Casas

trips to mexico on a budget

Puerto Escondido

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Travel Mexico Solo

17 of the Cheapest Places to Visit in Mexico Where Your Dollar Stretches Far

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In search of the cheapest places to visit in Mexico? You’ve come to the right article, and the right guide!

As someone who’s been living in Mexico since 2018, and visited 23 out of 32 states (and counting) I know there are A LOT of places that won’t break the bank.

Mexico is a land full of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history — but did you know you don’t need to spend a lot of money to enjoy its wonders?

From busy cities to quiet beaches, Mexico has many affordable places to visit.

Whether you love history, beaches, or adventure, there’s a budget-friendly spot for you.

Let’s explore some of the best cheap places to visit in Mexico, and find out what makes these places in the country so special.

1. Oaxaca City: A Cultural Heaven

colonial cathedral in oaxaca city

Why Visit Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is a city rich in indigenous culture, colonial buildings, and delicious food .

This city, in the heart of central Mexico, mixes old-world charm with modern life. It’s also quite affordable, making it great for budget travelers and backpackers.

Must-See Attractions

  • Monte Alban Ruins : These ancient ruins show Mexico’s pre-Columbian history.
  • Hierve el Agua : Natural rock formations and mineral springs that look like waterfalls.
  • Mitla : Another site with amazing stonework from the Zapotec civilization.

Budget Tips

  • Affordable Accommodation: Many hostels in Oaxaca City and budget hotels start at just $20 per night.
  • Local Cuisine: Street food is tasty and cheap. Try tlayudas, one of the best local dishes from Oaxaca .

2. Sayulita: Boho Beach Town

woman walking down Slap Street Sayulita Mexico

Why Visit Sayulita?

Sayulita , a laid-back beach town on Mexico’s Pacific coast in Nayarit state, is known for its bohemian vibe and vibrant surf culture.

It’s a perfect destination for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere, great surf, and colorful local culture.

  • Beaches : Sayulita Beach is famous for surfing, while quieter beaches like Playa de los Muertos offer a more tranquil setting.
  • Surfing : Renowned for its consistent waves, Sayulita is a top spot for both beginner and experienced surfers.
  • Artisan Shops : The town is dotted with boutique shops selling handmade jewelry, clothing, and local crafts.
  • Affordable Accommodation : Budget options include hostels and guesthouses, starting at around $20-30 per night.
  • Local Cuisine : Enjoy fresh seafood and tacos at the many food stands and casual eateries. Try the fish tacos and ceviche, but there are many vegan cafes and smoothie shops too.

3. Guadalajara: A Cultural Capital

red double decker Tapatío Tour Bus Guadalajara

Why Visit Guadalajara?

Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, is often called the cultural heart of Mexico.

It’s the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila, offering a rich cultural experience at a low cost.

  • Hospicio Cabañas: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive murals by famous Mexican artist, José Clemente Orozco.
  • Plaza de Armas: The main square, perfect for people-watching.
  • Colonia Americana: Voted the coolest neighborhood in the world by Time Out .
  • Teatro Degollado: A beautiful neoclassical theater with various performances.
  • Affordable Accommodation: Hostels and budget hotels start at $20-30 per night.
  • Local Cuisine: Street food is cheap and tasty. Try birria, a traditional dish from Jalisco state.

4. Valladolid: Hidden Gem in the Yucatan Peninsula

natural jungle pool in valladolid mexico called cenote zaci

Why Visit Valladolid?

Valladolid , in the northern part of Quintana Roo state, is a colorful city offering a more authentic Mexican experience.

It’s less touristy than other places in the Yucatan Peninsula, making it easier to avoid the usual tourist traps.

  • Cenotes: Valladolid has some of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico.
  • Mayan Ruins: Close to several important archaeological sites, including Ek Balam .
  • Local Market: The Mercado Municipal is a great place to buy souvenirs and try local foods for cheap.
  • Affordable Accommodation: Hostels and budget hotels start at $15 per night.
  • Local Cuisine: Street food is delicious and cheap. Try cochinita pibil , a local specialty.

5. San Cristóbal de las Casas: The Real Mexico

san cristobal de las casas, one of the most unique places in mexico

Why Visit San Cristóbal de las Casas?

San Cristóbal de las Casas, nestled in the highlands of Chiapas state , is a charming colonial city known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.

It’s a hub for indigenous culture and offers a unique blend of history, tradition, and picturesque landscapes.

  • Palenque Mayan Ruins : This UNESCO World Heritage Site has some of the best Mayan Ruins in Mexico .
  • Indigenous Markets : Explore vibrant markets like the Santo Domingo Handicrafts Market for handmade textiles and crafts.
  • Sumidero Canyon : A short trip away, this natural wonder offers breathtaking views and boat tours.
  • Affordable Accommodation : Plenty of hostels and budget hotels are available, starting around $20 per night.
  • Local Cuisine : Enjoy hearty and inexpensive local dishes like tamales and pozol at street stalls and local eateries.

6. Bacalar: The Maldives of Mexico

woman on a swing in the water in laguna bacalar lake mexico

Why Visit Bacalar?

Bacalar , a small town in Quintana Roo state, is famous for its stunning Lake of Seven Colors, offering a serene and less touristy alternative to other destinations in the region.

It’s perfect for those looking to unwind in a tranquil setting surrounded by natural beauty.

  • Lake Bacalar : Known for its multiple shades of blue, this lake is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
  • Cenote Azul : A deep, open-air cenote perfect for diving and snorkeling.
  • Fuerte de San Felipe : A historic fort in downtown offering panoramic views of the lake and a glimpse into the region’s pirate-fighting past.
  • Affordable Accommodation : Hostels and budget-friendly hotels are available, with prices starting at about $20 per night.
  • Local Cuisine : Sample delicious and inexpensive local food at the town’s markets and small eateries. Try the fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes like cochinita pibil.

7. Mexico City: A Big City on the Cheap

downtown mexico city with view of the Torre Latinoamericana Mexico City Skyscraper

Why Visit Mexico City?

Mexico City , the vibrant capital of Mexico, is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern culture.

It’s a cosmopolitan city offering world-class museums , a lively arts scene, diverse culinary experiences , and lucha libre wrestling matches.

  • Historic Center : Explore the Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor, showcasing the city’s rich history.
  • Chapultepec Park : Home to Chapultepec Castle, museums, and a zoo, this is one of the largest city parks in the world.
  • Frida Kahlo Museum : Located in the artist’s former home, this museum offers a glimpse into her life and work.
  • Affordable Accommodation : Hostels and budget hotels are widely available, with prices starting at around $25-35 per night.
  • Local Cuisine : Street food is abundant and affordable. Don’t miss out on tacos al pastor, tamales, and churros.

8. La Paz: Home to the Best Beach in Mexico

playa balandra beach in mexico

Why Visit La Paz?

La Paz , the capital of Baja California Sur, is a serene coastal city known for its stunning waterfront, rich marine life, and vibrant cultural scene.

It’s an ideal destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere of the Baja Peninsula .

  • Malecon : Stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade, lined with sculptures, restaurants, and shops.
  • Balandra Beach : Known as the best beach in Mexico, it’s famous for its crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations, it’s perfect for swimming and kayaking.
  • Isla Espíritu Santo : Take a boat tour to this island, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for snorkeling, diving, and spotting sea lions.
  • Affordable Accommodation : Numerous budget-friendly options are available, with hostels and small hotels starting at about $20-30 per night.
  • Local Cuisine : Enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties like fish tacos and chocolate clams (almejas chocolatas) at affordable eateries and markets.

9. Puerto Escondido: A Surfer’s Paradise

hand sculpture at playa zicatela beach in puerto escondido mexico

Why Visit Puerto Escondido?

Puerto Escondido , located on the Pacific Coast of Oaxaca state, is a must-visit for surfers and beach lovers, offering a mix of natural beauty and laid back vibes.

It’s known for its stunning beaches , bohemian vibes, world-class surf spots , and vibrant nightlife.

  • Zicatela Beach : Famous for its big waves, it’s a top destination for surfers from around the world.
  • Playa Carrizalillo : A picturesque bay perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and beginner surfing lessons .
  • Laguna de Manialtepec : A short drive away, this bioluminescent lagoon offers magical nighttime boat tours.
  • Affordable Accommodations : Hostels and budget hotels are available, with prices starting at around $25 per night.
  • Local Cuisine : Savor inexpensive and delicious local dishes like tlayudas and fresh seafood at beachside shacks and markets.

10. Merida: The Safest City in Mexico

colorful sign that reads MERIDA, one of the safest cities in Mexico

Why Visit Mérida?

Mérida , the cultural capital of the Yucatán Peninsula, is a charming colonial city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights .

It’s a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of traditional Mexican charm and modern amenities, and it’s not far from some of the best Yucatan beaches .

  • Plaza Grande : The city’s main square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Cathedral of Mérida and the Government Palace.
  • Paseo de Montejo : Stroll along this elegant boulevard lined with mansions, shops, and restaurants, reminiscent of the city’s colonial past.
  • Mayan Ruins : Explore nearby archaeological sites such as Uxmal and Chichén Itzá to learn about the region’s ancient Mayan civilization.
  • Cenotes : There are numerous cenotes near Merida to enjoy a refreshing swim on a hot day.
  • Affordable Accommodation : Budget hotels and hostels are plentiful, with prices starting around $25-30 per night.
  • Local Cuisine : Sample affordable and delicious Yucatecan food specialties like cochinita pibil, panuchos, salbutes, kibis and marquesitas from street vendors and local markets.

11. Isla Mujeres: An Island Paradise

aerial photo of isla mujeres mexico

Why Visit Isla Mujeres?

Isla Mujeres , a picturesque island off the coast of Cancun in Quintana Roo, is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed island atmosphere.

It’s a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland, offering a blend of natural beauty and vibrant local culture.

  • Playa Norte : Renowned as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, it’s ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Garrafon Natural Reef Park : This park offers snorkeling, zip-lining, and stunning views of the reef and surrounding waters.
  • Punta Sur : The southern tip of the island features dramatic cliffs, a lighthouse, and the Ruins of Ixchel, which are ancient ruins of a Mayan temple.
  • Affordable Accommodation : Various budget hotels and hostels are available, with prices starting around $25-35 per night.
  • Local Cuisine : Enjoy affordable and delicious local dishes like ceviche and tikin xic at beachside cafes and local markets.

12. La Huasteca Potosina: The Land of Waterfalls

cascada puente de dios waterfall la huasteca potosina mexico

Why Visit Huasteca Potosina?

Huasteca Potosina , located in the state of San Luis Potosí, is a hidden gem renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including waterfalls , rivers, and caves.

It’s an outdoor adventurer’s paradise, offering opportunities for hiking, swimming, and exploring unique geological formations.

  • Tamul Waterfall : This majestic waterfall, one of the tallest waterfalls in Mexico , is accessible by boat and offers breathtaking views.
  • Sótano de las Golondrinas : Descend into one of the world’s deepest caves, home to thousands of swifts and other birds , for an unforgettable experience.
  • Las Pozas : Explore the Surreal Gardens of Edward James , featuring whimsical structures and sculptures nestled in the rainforest.
  • Affordable Accommodation : Rustic cabins and eco-lodges are available, with prices starting around $10-30 per night.
  • Local Cuisine : Enjoy affordable and delicious Huastecan dishes such as zacahuil, enchiladas potosinas, and gorditas de horno from local eateries and markets.

13. Playa Del Carmen: Beach Bliss on a Budget

giant sculpture on playa del carmen beach

Why Visit Playa Del Carmen?

Playa Del Carmen , in the Yucatan Peninsula , is popular with expats and digital nomads. It has beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and low living costs .

  • Cenotes : Natural sinkholes perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
  • Chichen Itza : One of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
  • Frida Kahlo Museum: A museum dedicated to one of Mexico’s most famous artists, and located on the coolest street in town, La Avenida Quinta (5th Avenue).
  • Affordable Accommodation: Hostels and budget hotels start at about $25-35 per night.
  • Local Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Mayan food at local spots for less money.

14. Ensenada: A Short Drive from Southern California

view of Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

Why Visit Ensenada?

Ensenada , located on the Pacific Coast of Baja California state, is a vibrant port city known for its beautiful coastline, excellent wine, and culinary delights.

It’s a gateway to the Baja wine country in Mexico, and offers a mix of urban attractions and natural wonders.

  • La Bufadora : This impressive marine geyser is one of the largest in North America, offering spectacular water displays.
  • Guadalupe Valley : Known as the Napa Valley of Mexico, this wine region boasts numerous vineyards and wine tasting tours.
  • Fish Market : Mercado de Mariscos, the local fish market, is a great place to experience the freshest seafood and local culinary culture.
  • Affordable Accommodation : Many budget hotels and hostels are available, with prices starting around $25-35 per night.
  • Local Cuisine : Savor inexpensive and delicious local dishes like fish tacos and ceviche at street vendors and local eateries.

15. Puerto Vallarta: Pacific Beach Paradise

beach in puerto vallarta mexico

Why Visit Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta , located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast in Jalisco state, is a popular destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and its charming old town.

It’s a perfect blend of traditional Mexican culture and modern amenities, offering something for every type of traveler — from boating to tequila tastings to secret beaches .

  • Malecón : This lively boardwalk along the oceanfront is lined with sculptures, shops, restaurants, and bars, offering a vibrant atmosphere day and night.
  • Zona Romántica : The Romantic Zone features cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a plethora of cafes, galleries, and boutique shops.
  • Los Arcos Marine Park : A popular spot for snorkeling and diving, this protected area boasts impressive rock formations and diverse marine life.
  • Affordable Accommodation : Hostels and budget-friendly hotels are plentiful, with prices starting around $40 per night.
  • Local Cuisine : Enjoy affordable and delicious local dishes such as birria, tacos al pastor, and fresh seafood from street vendors and local markets.

16. Puebla City: Culture on a Budget

colorful street and colonial architecture in puebla, mexico

Why Visit Puebla City?

Puebla City, located a few hours from Mexico City in central Mexico, is a historic city renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious local cuisine (comida poblana).

The entire downtown area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern attractions .

  • Historic Center : Explore the city’s beautiful colonial buildings, including the ornate Puebla Cathedral and the colorful buildings of Callejón de los Sapos.
  • Cholula : Visit the nearby town of Cholula , home to the Great Pyramid of Cholula, the largest pyramid in the world by volume.
  • Talavera Pottery : Discover the art of Talavera pottery by visiting workshops and shops in Puebla’s historic center.
  • Affordable Accommodation : Budget hotels and hostels are available, with prices starting around $20-30 per night.
  • Local Cuisine : Indulge in affordable and delicious Poblano cuisine like cemitas, tacos arabes, mole poblano, and chile en nogada from street vendors, markets, and local eateries.

17. Cancun: More Than Just a Party Destination

woman in front a a colorful sign that reads CANCUN

Why Visit Cancun?

Cancun is famous for its nightlife, but it also has many budget-friendly activities. From beautiful beaches to cenotes and ancient ruins, there’s something for everyone.

  • Isla Mujeres: A short ferry ride away, this island has beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and the famous whale shark swim in the summer.
  • El Rey Ruins: Ancient Mayan ruins in the Cancun hotel zone.
  • Coco Bongo: A world-famous nightclub with an unforgettable experience.
  • Affordable Accommodation: Hostels and budget hotels start at $30 per night.
  • Local Cuisine: Street food is delicious and cheap. Try tacos al pastor and cochinita pibil , two local favorites.

Mexico Travel FAQs

What is the best time to visit Mexico? Weather-wise, the best time to visit Mexico is during the dry season, from November to April .

This period offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists. However, for a budget-friendly trip, the summer is A LOT cheaper than the winter.

Is Mexico safe for solo travelers? Mexico is generally safe for solo travelers . However, it’s always a good idea to stay informed about local safety guidelines and take necessary precautions.

What is the cheapest way to travel around Mexico? The cheapest way to travel around Mexico is by bus . The country has an extensive and affordable bus network that connects major cities and tourist destinations.

Can I use US dollars in Mexico? While US dollars are accepted in some tourist areas, it’s best to use Mexican pesos for most transactions, including tipping . ATMs are widely available for currency exchange.

What should I pack for a trip to Mexico? Pack light , breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen , and a reusable water bottle .

Don’t forget your passport and any necessary travel documents.

Do I need a visa to visit Mexico? Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and the EU, do not need a visa for stays of up to 180 days.

Check with your local Mexican consulate for specific requirements.

Mexico is a land of endless possibilities, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to every type of traveler.

From the cultural richness of Oaxaca to the beach bliss of Playa Del Carmen, there’s no shortage of affordable destinations to explore.

So pack your bags , grab your passport, and get ready to discover the best cheap places to visit in Mexico. Your adventure awaits!

Never Ending Footsteps

The Cost of Travel in Mexico: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

Ask me about my favourite country in the world and I’ll tell you about Mexico.

I’ve been fortunate to have visited over a hundred countries during my past decade of travel, but it’s Mexico that never fails to leave me swooning.

I love this country so much that I can’t recommend a visit highly enough. Not only is Mexico full of beautiful scenery, world-class beaches, and wonderful locals, but it’s relatively inexpensive, too. And the food . The tacos! Mexico is worth visiting for the food alone. And yes, I want to reassure you that it is safe to visit.

As I write this now, in January 2024, I’ve spent a whopping seven months in Mexico and I’m currently planning on returning for another three. Over that time, I spent months living in a hippie beach town on the Pacific Coast, several weeks in the central mountain ranges, and two months making my way around the Yucatan. In other words, I’ve seen a hell of a lot of this incredible country, and I’m excited to share this detailed budget breakdown with you all.

Because while I’ve been making my way across this wonderful country, I’ve also been tracking every single peso I’ve spent.

If you’re wondering how much it costs to travel in Mexico, let’s jump in.

Woman standing on grass in front of a large stone structure at Chichen Itza in Mexico.

The Cost of Accommodation in Mexico

I’ll kick things off by focusing on my backpackers and budget travellers out there. If that’s you, you’ll be glad to hear that you can get by in Mexico on very little. Note that all the prices I mention below are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.

Cheap Accommodation

As in many parts of the world, hostels are one of the best low-cost accommodation options. Mexico has hostels in most major city and towns across the country, and they’re one of the best ways of saving money while still making friends. I always recommend staying in hostels if you’re going to be travelling alone!

Hostels in Mexico are similarly priced to those in Central America, so you can get by on not very much at all. You can expect to spend around $15-25 a night for a dorm bed in a well-rated hostel, or around $60 for a private room . If you’re travelling as part of a couple, you may find you end up spending a similar amount for a private room versus just getting two beds in a dorm.

Airbnb is another option worth keeping in mind, as staying in a private room ( not renting out the entire apartment!) with a local can often work out to be more affordable than spending a night in a hostel, especially if you’re a couple. Head on over to the Airbnb website and it’s not hard to find accommodation for $30 a night . You’ll be more comfortable than you would be in a hostel, receive faster internet, and will get to hang out with the locals, which is what travel’s all about! 

Free Accommodation

If you’re on a really tight budget, there are options in Mexico that mean getting to explore the country for  free . Couchsurfing has been a budget travel staple for over a decade now, and there are  hundreds of thousands of hosts  across the country. You’ll be able to stay for free with a local and gain an insight into life in Mexico that’s tough to experience when staying with other travellers in hostels.

Housesitting  is a more upmarket option, aimed at mid-range and luxury travellers. Housesitting involves taking care of somebody’s house for free while they’re away, often (but not always) looking after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees, as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you’ll need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you  do  have that freedom, though it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while.  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

Finally, when it comes to free accommodation, you can also check out  WorldPackers (use promo code neverendingfootsteps for a $10 discount). Through the site, you’ll receive totally free accommodation (and often food) in exchange for a few hours of work each day.

Think: working in a hostel, helping with gardening, or even taking care of alpacas. You’ll likely make tons of new friends, learn a new skill, and, depending on where you end up, see a side of Mexico that few travellers get to experience. 

My Accommodation Recommendations in Mexico

trips to mexico on a budget

Tulum: Ah, Tulum. It has a reputation for being expensive, but bargains can still be had. Casa Almendro comes in at $51 a night — a steal for Tulum — and still manages to have the amenities of a luxury hotel. You’re within walking distance of the centre of Tulum, so finding a restaurant becomes a hell of a lot easier. You’ve got a kickass rooftop area with hammocks to lounge in. It’s directly opposite a market, so you can easily buy produce from there to cook, if you feel like eating in one night. And you can even rent bicycles to help you explore Tulum in more depth , something I can’t recommend doing highly enough.

Puerto Vallarta: I could say this about everywhere I’ve visited in Mexico, but I love Puerto Vallarta. It’s so much fun! With a great beach and delicious food, it combines the two best aspects of Mexican life. But where to stay? I stayed in Garlands del Rio at $88 a night , and loved its laidback vibe right on the river. There’s a lovely pool and bar area, and honestly, I wish everywhere offered me chips and salsa and a margarita on arrival like this place does! The owner seems determined to make everyone’s stay as perfect as possible, and when you do leave the hotel, restaurants, bars, and the city’s famous beach are all close by.

Mexico City: If there’s one thing you need to know about Mexico City, it’s that it’s large. And choosing a hotel — and indeed a neighbourhood — can be overwhelming. I recommend going for a place in Coyoacán, and in particular, I love what  Finca Coyoacán has to offer, at a price of $83 a night . You’ll be in the perfect place to explore the markets and restaurants of Coyoacán , and be able to retreat each nice to a safe haven with a super-comfortable bed, friendly staff, and even free fruit to snack on! There’s a reason why this is one of the best-rated properties in the entire city!

Oaxaca: When it comes to Oaxaca, I wouldn’t consider staying anywhere other than La Betulia , which comes in at $137 a night . It’s in one of my favourite areas of the city, just a few minutes away from the iconic Santa Domingo church, yet is still quiet enough for you to feel as though you’re worlds away from the city. And the breakfasts? Too good! What I love about La Betulia is that they offer up Mexican dishes for breakfast, in addition to the more Western flavours, so you’ll get to dive into the country’s cuisine and eat as the locals do. With some of the most welcoming locals in the city, beautiful rooms, and a propensity for attracting guests that fast become friends, there’s no wonder I can’t stop singing its praises!

Isla Mujeres: I stayed at the phenomenal Casa Barco Hotel while I was in Isla Mujeres; easily the best properties on the entire island! At a price of $130 a night , it’s also one of the best-value options in town (Isla Mujeres is pricey). It’s located in the north of the island, within walking distance to the one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve seen in Mexico. The staff were absolutely wonderful here and offered up some great food recommendations for our stay. And that swimming pool? So picturesque!

The Cost of Transportation in Mexico

Lauren and Dave on a scooter in Isla Mujeres

Mexico’s a big country, but fortunately, it’s home to a solid public transportation system.

The bus is one of my favourite ways to explore the country, and it’s one of the cheapest, too. If you’re going to be travelling south of Mexico City, I can’t recommend the bus company ADO enough. They run luxury buses throughout this part of the country, offering comfortable reclining seats, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. They’re seriously up-market buses and well-worth paying for. I include some of their prices at the end of this section.

For smaller distances, you’ll be able to utilise colectivos , which are minivans that fit around 12 people. Just jump on board, tell the driver where you want to go, wait for the other people to get in, and then stop when you’re at your stop. They’re very affordable. I travelled by colectivo between Playa del Carmen and Akumal (M$40/$2.50)  and it as super-efficient, easy to use, and reasonably comfortable.

Unfortunately, trains don’t really exist in Mexico, with a couple of exceptions. Something that’s been on my Mexico wishlist for a while now is the Copper Canyon Railway, which runs through Mexico’s Copper Canyon and takes around 16 hours. There’s also a train that runs between Guadalajara and Tequila, which is known as the Tequila Express. Aside from those two journeys, though, you won’t be riding the rails while you’re in Mexico.

Once you’re on the ground, taxis are prevalent and Uber is available in several major destinations, like Mexico City, Cancun, Guanajuato, Tijuana, and Puerto Vallarta. There’s also the Cabify app, which works the same way as Uber. If you take regular cabs, you can expect to pay anywhere from M$10 to M$50 per km  depending on where you are in Mexico: as with basically every country in the world, expect to have a struggle to find a taxi driver that’s using their meter!

If you’re confident about driving in another country, you could always look into renting a car to explore the country. I have several friends who have done this and were surprised by how safe it felt to do so. They had no major incidents! A week-long car hire out of Cancun costs $110 for an economy option , so the prices aren’t too bad. I use  Skyscanner to find the cheapest car rentals.

Finally, I want to talk about flying in Mexico. If the distances are large (say you want to travel from Puerto Vallarta to Cancun), it makes more sense to fly. Mexico is a vast country and overland distances can take many days. I flew from Guanajuato to Cancun to save on the journey time and it ended up costing just $74 .

Here are some typical overland transportation costs you’ll come up against while you’re travelling in Mexico:

  • Bus ride from Cancun Airport to Tulum: M$420 ($25)
  • Bus ride from Tulum to Playa del Carmen: M$120 ($7)
  • Bus ride from Playa del Carmen to Valladolid: M$250 ($15)
  • Bus ride from Mexico City to Oaxaca: M$419 ($25)
  • Bus ride from Mexico City to Puebla: M$174 ($11)
  • Bus ride from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita: M$55 ($3.50)
  • Ferry ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel: M$280 ($17)

The Cost of Food in Mexico

trips to mexico on a budget

If the food doesn’t end up being the highlight of your time in Mexico, I’ll be more than shocked. After all, I’m the person who regularly plans trips to Mexico for the sole reason of eating as much food as possible.

In fact, Mexico is my number one country in the world for eating.

And most exciting of all? The local food in Mexico is so cheap! You can get by on $1-2 a meal if you’re on a tight budget, but if you’re willing to splurge, you’ll be looking at paying as much as $10 per meal . It’s all so inexpensive. And delicious! Have I mentioned that it’s delicious?

One dish that you have to try in Mexico is cochinita pibil — it’s my favourite thing to eat in the country! Cochinita pibil is pulled pork shoulder that’s been slow-roasted and braised in achiote, orange juice, and lime. Throw some pickled onions on top, and you have the most incredible dish. It’s tender, tangy, full of flavour, and you can eat it in sandwiches and tacos for a dollar or two. You’ll find it everywhere in the Yucatan.

Tacos are probably going to fuel your Mexico sightseeing activities, as they’re cheap, delicious, and easy to find. You’ll eat them in a corn tortilla rather than a flour one that’s more popular in Western countries, and there are dozens of different flavours to choose from.

One of my favourites is tacos al pastor, which features schwarma-style pork and grilled pineapple, but I also love the chorizo, carnitas (deep-fried pork), and carne asada. In case you hadn’t realised, yes, I’m a big fan of pork.

Now, tempting as it is to live on tacos the entire time you’re in Mexico (I won’t judge you if you do), there are so many other great eating options that you really do need to try.

Let’s start with breakfast. And by breakfast, I mean chilaquiles. I’m not saying this is the healthy option, but I am definitely saying it is the delicious option. I mean, how could you not love fried tortillas, chopped up and covered with salsa, crumbled cheese, beans, eggs, and whatever else takes the chef’s fancy? There are many variations around the country, and I think I’ve just about tried them all at this point! You’ll pay $6-10 depending on what’s on it and where you are.

Most of the things that go inside a tortilla can be found inside bread as well: tortas are everywhere, and just as delicious. You won’t be shocked to hear that cocinita pibil is my favourite filling here as well, but I’ve had everything from chicken, beans, and fish to, famously once, chilaquiles. Dave and I still talk about that meal to this day. Expect to pay around $3 .

Tamales are also easily available, at least in some parts of the country. Look out for vendors standing over the distinctive streaming metal containers on street corners and then run, don’t walk, to grab yourself something incredible to eat.

Made from masa (a dough made from ground corn) and filled with chicken, pork, cheese, or beans, they’re wrapped in corn husk or banana leaf, then steamed in that metal container until they’re soft and delicious. I loved them on chilly afternoons in Guanajuato, but honestly, I’d eat them no matter the weather! They’re usually $1-2 each.

The Cost of Activities in Mexico

Author standing at a viewpoint above a beach in Tulum, Mexico, with an old stone building visible on a clifftop on the other side of the beach. Blue sky and ocean behind.

The cost of your activities are going to vary based on which part of the country you’re going to be visiting. In the Yucatan, much of your pesos will be spent on ruin-hopping and jungle-trekking; on the Pacific Coast, you’ll all about whale-watching and surfing.

These are the entrance fees (2024) to many of the popular attractions across the country:

  • Entrance to Chichen Itza: M$614 ($36)
  • Entrance to Coba ruins: M$100 ($6)
  • Entrance to Tulum ruins: M$90 ($5.50) + national park fee of M$58 ($3.50) for most visitors
  • Entrance to Cenote Dos Ojos: M$350 ($21)
  • Entrance to Guanajuato’s Mummy Museum: M$97 ($6)
  • Entrance to Mexico City’s National Museum of Anthropology:  M$95 ($6)
  • Entrance to Oaxaca’s Hierve el Agua waterfalls:  M$50 ($3)
  • Entrance to Mexico City’s Frida Kahlo Museum:  M$250-270 ($15-16)
  • Entrance to a Lucha Libre wrestling match:  M$120+ ($7) depending on your seat and who is fighting

As you can see, most attractions are pretty reasonably priced.

Let’s now take a look at the typical activities you can do in Mexico, as well as their costs. Whenever I visit a country, I always make sure to check out the tours that are available on Get Your Guide . I book 99% of the tours I take through there.

Other activities include:

  • Earlier entrance to Chichen Itza : $70
  • Sightseeing and Snorkelling catamaran cruise from Cancun : $59
  • Rio Secreto underground river tour : $89
  • Luxury sailing and snorkelling tour from Cabo San Lucas : $111
  • Mexico City market and street food tour : $105
  • Jungle buggy tour from Playa del Carmen with cenote swimming : $105
  • Snorkelling tour to the famous Marietas Islands from Puerto Vallarta : $121

Overall, then, if you’re going to be travelling to Mexico on a budget, you can see that the activities are really going to be where your costs start to increase. Still, I don’t think the prices for the tours are outrageous — they’re similar to what you’d pay in the U.S. — although they may be something you’ll want to skip out on if you’re watching your money.

The Cost of Miscellaneous Items in Mexico

Lauren in Guanajuato

Travel insurance:  If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Mexico. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

A dry bag: If you’re going to be hitting the beaches in Mexico or taking any boat trips, I highly recommend packing a dry bag  to take with you. A dry bag has saved me while travelling on so many occasions:

  • On a kayaking trip from Koh Yao Noi to Koh Nok, in Thailand, a freak wave splashed over me, as well as my camera and phone. Had I not had them in a dry bag, the water damage would have likely destroyed them.
  • On a ferry ride in Thailand, the boat sprung a leak and began to sink. I was able to put my laptop, camera, hard drive, passport, and money in my dry bag, seal it up, and know that they’d stay safe and dry if the worst were to happen.
  • I chartered a yacht in Greece and when mooring in tiny bays, was able to fill my dry bag with my camera, towel, and sunscreen, jump in the sea, and swim to the nearest empty beach without worrying about keeping my belongings dry.
  • I also think dry bags are fantastic for solo travellers on beach days. In French Polynesia, I filled mine with my valuables and took it for a swim with me, rather than having to leave them on my towel while hoping nobody would grab them.

I love all things Sea to Summit, and after trying several of their dry bags out, my favourite is the Ultra-Sil 8L — it’s durable, thin, lightweight, and has never let me down — I’ve been using it for over five years.

A GRAYL water purifier bottle: In countries with unsafe drinking water, I recommend picking up a  GRAYL water bottle  to save money on drinking while also helping protect the environment. This bottle comes complete with a filter that makes tap water safe to drink — you fill the bottle with water, slide the filter down to the bottom, then drink away. Doing so kills 99.9999% of all viruses, bacteria, and parasites in water and gets rid of any sediment, heavy metals, or weird flavours, making it completely safe to drink. You can drink tap water anywhere in the world with this bottle and not get sick — whether you’re in Mexico, Mozambique, or the Maldives! Trust me — I’ve used it in dozens of countries and never fallen unwell from doing so.

My Overall Travel Expenses in Mexico

Beach in Tulum

My daily expenses for a mid-range month-long trip through Mexico:

Accommodation: $62 a day Transportation: $11.80 a day Food: $13.70 a day Activities: $12.38 a day

Total: $99.88 a day

Related Articles on Mexico 🏖 28 Incredible Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico 🏝 24 Incredible Things to Do in Playa del Carmen, Mexico ☀️ Isla Mujeres: My Mexican Island Paradise 🌈 Guanajuato: The Prettiest City in Mexico 🐚 Tulum and the Best Beach Ever 🧐 A Love-Hate Relationship with Playa del Carmen 🙈 That Time I Stayed in a Hotel Without Walls 🏡 Finding An Apartment in Sayulita

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Love this post! I’m going to be spending three months in Mexico in 2020 and this gives me a good idea of what I can expect to spend. My question for you, if you had to choose to spend three months on the west cost, east coast, or central area, which would you choose? Not that I’m necessarily going to do that, but I’m curious to get your answer. Thanks! :)

This was so helpful!! Would you mind sharing where you found such good prices for staying in Oaxaca?

Thank you! I actually just walked around town looking for any signs advertising rooms for rent. I ended up staying in a small studio apartment owned by a local woman — so not anywhere you could book online. If you want to stay long-term, it’s best to turn up and ask around to get the best deals.

thank you for the post! my partner and I are going to mexico in January for 2 months and are in a tight budget, I’d love to know where its the best place that you’d recommend for us to go or which route. Also we have a workaway account to volunteer for a bit we were thinking around 3 weeks.

Soooooo useful! I can’t wait to get to Mexico and I’m so happy to see it’s not going to be anywhere near as expensive as I was expecting. Slow travel is always the way to go!

Have an amazing time in Mexico! :-)

Thank you for the valuable info!! Looking to travel for a few months in Jan. 2021 if safe to do so. Very interested in Oaxaco area. Kind Regards

Hi Lauren, sure do appreciate all this information – thank you! As a now-disabled Mayanist traveler who used to adventure more thoroughly in Mesoamerica, your post is the first one that is showing me ways I can still travel again. I did want to point out one item I expected to see on here that wasn’t on your “attractions” list – Teotihuacan. It is a relatively disability-friendly and very seminal destination for anyone visiting central MX/DF. If you could add that, that would be great! I have never found a way outside of school trips to find my way to Yucatan, and your suggestions led me on a trail that brought up some really helpful options. If you ever want a guest poster for disabled travelers, feel free to be in touch. Thanks again for the super helpful post!

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The 10 Most Affordable Places to Visit in Mexico

Mexico has become home to some of the world's best names in luxury, but it doesn't mean there aren't still incredible budget-friendly destinations.

trips to mexico on a budget

Itzel Garrido/Travel + Leisure

If Mexico has shown us anything in the past few years, it’s how it excels at extreme luxury. Long gone are the days when Mexico was sought after for its backpacker-friendly destinations and prices. Today, Mexico has transformed from a strictly budget-friendly destination to a coveted luxury getaway, touting names like One&Only, Auberge, and Four Seasons, a constellation of Michelin-starred chefs, and a design and fashion scene that rivals Paris, London, and Milan.

A surge in upscale resorts, an evolution in gourmet dining, and a change in traveler's priorities to favor exclusive, local experiences have all helped to skyrocket Mexico's popularity — and its price tag. Add to that an infusion of international investment and a very strong peso , and it's easy to see how Mexico has shed its former reputation and emerged as one of the top luxury destinations in the world.

Still, while well-heeled travelers are basking in the private plunge pools of Cancun and Cabo, sampling the menus of Michelin-starred chefs in San Miguel de Allende, or disappearing to the chic yoga retreats of Riviera Nayarit and Tulum, Mexico still has plenty of affordable destinations.

"Ultimately, these same dynamics of less visitation by international travelers offer more authentic destinations and less diluted by the influence of foreign cultures, values, and attitudes," said Zach Rabinor, CEO of Journey Mexico and a Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor. "These less-touched communities often have celebrations, festivals, processions, and other events that may have disappeared from more frequently touristed destinations. The spirit and experience of more authentic, 'real Mexico,' is stronger in these more off-the-beaten-path destinations."

From the laid-back shores of Mazatlan to the misty mountains of San Cristobal de las Casas and the colorful colonial buildings of Campeche, here are some of the best, most affordable places to vacation in Mexico.

Mexico City

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

The capital of Mexico is far from an "off the beaten path" destination. Quite the contrary. Mexico City is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico , with one of the busiest airports in Latin America and some of the most luxurious hotels in the country. However, what Mexico City has in its favor for affordability is its sheer size and diversity.

The city's vibrant neighborhoods offer ample opportunity to score travel deals in boutique hotels, dive deep into the street food scene, and while away the evening hours in its variety of dive bars. While budget-conscious travelers may feel priced out of neighborhoods like Polanco, neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma continue to offer funky, affordable accommodations and restaurants. Even more affordable are neighborhoods like San Angel, San Miguel Chapultepec, and Zona Rosa.

Plus, Mexico City has so many things to do for free (or close to free), like wandering Chapultepec Park, exploring its thousands of museums and galleries, or marveling at the architectural masterpieces in the Zocalo. It's also easy to move around Mexico City on a budget, as the subway costs a very enticing 5 pesos — that's about a quarter.

Gerardo Huitrón/Getty Images

Rabinor recommends the city of Puebla as one of his top affordable destinations in Mexico. Puebla is a visual feast, from the centuries-old Spanish architecture to the buildings peppered with hand-painted Talavera tiles and the looming silhouette of Popocapetl volcano in the distance. Puebla has a rich heritage and an even richer culinary scene — mole is one of the state’s signature dishes.

While Puebla does have its share of pricey hotel options, visitors can also choose from many budget-minded boutique hotels. Puebla is also home to many free or low-cost attractions. You can wander the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, without spending a single peso. The Puebla Cathedral is a must, as are the secret tunnels that run underneath much of the city. These tunnels have a history that dates back nearly 200 years.

Puebla is also rich in markets like Mercado El Carmen and Mercado de Sabores Poblanos. These dynamic cultural institutions are great places to shop for handmade goods at budget-friendly prices or snag a filling meal for just a handful of pesos. Tip: Try a cemita, a plump, overstuffed sandwich that is local to Puebla.

Itzel Garrido/Travel + Leisure

Merida, the capital of Yucatan, is one of my favorite cities in Mexico. The steamy, low-lying city is a treasure trove of architectural and design beauties, from the majestic Paseo Montejo avenue lined with its 19th-century mansions to the Mayan city of Uxmal, about an hour outside the city.

Merida may be a capital, but it's precisely why it has remained so affordable: options! Merida has a wide range of accommodations, with many affordable ones located within walking distance of its top attractions. It's also a foodie capital, with traditional Yucatecan dishes taking center stage, like cochinita pibil, panuchos, and sopa de limon. These traditional dishes are hearty and complex, worthy of a much higher price tag, but will never break the bank.

Visitors can also move around Merida at a very low cost. Not only is the bus system budget-friendly , but Uber is also prevalent throughout the city and at an extremely reasonable price. As for things to do, Merida's impressive historic sites, from the Plaza Grande to the Merida Cathedral, are all free to visit, and the city is known for its calendar of free events, from concerts in the park to art exhibitions.

© Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

Guanajuato is another top affordable pick on Rabinor's list. One of Mexico's most vibrant and colorful colonial cities, Guanajuato is a dizzying array of architecture, culture, and rich history. It's also a great option for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience a dynamic cultural city without burning a hole in their pocket.

One of Guanajuato's top draws is its wide range of accommodation. Visitors can check into cozy guest houses, boutique hotels, or Airbnb rentals, many of which offer great amenities at a much lower price point than in other cities.

Guanajuato's cuisine is another reason to visit this color-splashed city. Famous for the local dish, enchiladas mineras, a centuries-old recipe of tortillas stuffed with cheese and onions and piled high with a carrot and potato stew, you can find this dish everywhere, from street carts to local holes in the wall. The many markets and vendors offer other regional and national specialties for equally satisfying prices.

The city's Centro Historico has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a frenzy of colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. Guanajuato is a hilly city, but visitors love getting out on foot to explore the plazas and winding alleys — all free. Plus, the museums and galleries in Guanajuato are very affordable. The Museo de las Momias (Mummy Museum) is one of the city's most fascinating; entry tickets are less than 100 pesos ($5.84).

One of the most exciting times to visit Guanajuato is during the International Cervantes Festival, a celebration of Spanish literature and culture highlighting the short plays by Miguel de Cervantes. But remember, hotels are probably at their most expensive during this festival, which runs the last two weeks of October. Guanajuato is perfectly positioned to experience the miles of hiking trails and lookout points nearby — all for free if you like outdoor adventure.

FG Trade Latin/Getty Images

Mazatlan is one of the most underrated destinations in Mexico by international travelers. Very rarely do you find a beach destination as interesting as affordable. Mazatlan is predominantly a beach destination for domestic travelers and has retained its undeniable authenticity as a Mexican beach destination. Think bucket-sized Micheladas and the plonky sounds of banda music on the beach. But Mazatlan also rewards with a historic and charming Centro Historico — one of the few destinations in Mexico with a colonial historic center just blocks from the beach.

Typical to Mexico's beach destinations, Mazatlan has a long strip of beachfront resorts in its Zona Dorada, or Golden Zone. But because the city has miles — yes, miles — of beaches, you can find beachfront resorts from one end of the city to the next. It also has a selection of affordable downtown hotels clustered around the Centro Historico, so travelers have many options.

While Mazatlan is predominantly a beach destination, it also offers much to culture seekers. The Centro Historico is packed with colorful buildings and notable landmarks, including the historic Angela Peralta Theater and the Plaza Machado — two destinations where you can find year-round cultural performances and entertainment.

Mazatlan is also a foodie capital, particularly if you like seafood. One of the leading shrimp suppliers in Mexico, the seafood here is fresh, abundant, and won't cost you a fortune. If you like nightlife, Mazatlan's bar scene is legendary, with clubs, dives, lounges, and live music venues — all at a fraction of the price compared to nightlife in some of Mexico's other beach destinations.

Lagos de Moreno

Roberto Armocida/Getty Images

Mexico’s state of Jalisco may be most famous for its capital, Guadalajara, and beach empire, Puerto Vallarta — two phenomenal destinations, albeit more expensive these days. But Rabinor also recommends visiting Lagos de Moreno, a stunning Spanish-influenced city in the state's northeastern corner. Packed with history and peppered with gorgeous architecture, Lagos de Moreno is a historic treasure, an iconic Pueblo Magico, and one of the most affordable destinations in Mexico.

The heart of Lagos de Moreno starts in its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with many buildings that date back to the 16th century. The Parroquia de La Asunción is the crown jewel of the historic center, framed on all sides by cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings. Behind the church is the Museum of Sacred Art, where you can view oil paintings and sculptures and even explore an interactive room that tells stories about the regional culture. Entry into the museum is free.

After wandering the centuries-old streets, pick up a plastic chair at a street food stall for a heaping plate of birria tacos or carne en su jugo — two succulent, savory dishes indigenous to Jalisco.

San Cristóbal de las Casas

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High up in the Chiapas Highlands, San Cristobal de las Casas is a misty mountaintop city steeped in mysticism, webbed with cobblestone streets, and wrapped in dramatic views.

I first visited San Cristobal de las Casas on a tight-budgeted backpacking trip across southern Mexico. After wandering the stone streets and cultural landmarks, I soon saw that backpackers were the bread and butter of the tourist scene here in this affordable city. Accommodations run the gamut from budget hostels to charming guest houses and affordable hotels. You won't find any international luxury hotels in this historic city.

The highlands of Chiapas are one of the best places to learn about the original communities in this part of Mexico. The indigenous communities surrounding San Cristobal de las Casas are the Tzotzil Mayans, who can be seen all over the city in their bright, colorful dresses. Visitors can pop into the Museo de la Medicina Maya to learn more about the rituals and practices of this centuries-old community.

One of the best ways to support the local community is to shop at the Mercado de Dulces y Artesanías. This budget-friendly market sells everything from handicrafts and textiles to locally-made pastries and sweets.

The historic center of San Cristobal de las Casas is breathtaking. At its center is the canary yellow Cathedral of San Cristobal, which stands on a hilltop perch and overlooks the valley below.

It's an extremely walkable city, but if you want to venture further to see attractions like the impressive Cañón del Sumidero down the mountain, you can take a colectivo (shared van) or a bus down into the valley to witness one of Mexico’s most impressive natural wonders.

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The historic colonial town of Patzcuaro, located in the state of Michoacan, is a place of impressive beauty and cultural heritage and stands out as an incredibly affordable travel destination. It is also one of the oldest cities in Mexico and has one of the most visually stunning celebrations for Dia de los Muertos.

Poised on the banks of Lake Patzcuaro, Patzcuaro's historic center is a living museum of colonial architecture, with its colorful buildings, plazas, and centuries-old churches. The city was first founded in the 14th century as the capital of the Purepecha Empire . The Spanish took over in the 16th century, establishing their settlement in 1538. Today, visitors can wander through Patzcuaro's history via its narrow streets, visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Health, and explore the Plaza Vasco de Quiroga for free.

One of the best places to explore in Patzcuaro is the Mercado de Antojitos, a chaotic array of food stalls serving glorious traditional Michoacán dishes and snacks. For crafts, head to the Mercado de Artesanias, where you can pick up locally crafted pottery, textiles, and woodwork.

The most popular time to visit Patzcuaro is at the end of October and early November for the annual Dia de los Muertos celebration. While other destinations have commercialized the traditional Day of the Dead celebrations, Patzcuaro is one destination where the festivities ring true to their roots. Pick-up trucks bursting with bright orange marigolds rattle down cobblestone streets as altars spring up all over the city. Processions pass through the streets and into cemeteries while the ethereal glow of hundreds and hundreds of candles lights the entire town. Not to miss is the Danza de los Viejitos, a traditional folk dance native to Michoacan.

Mexico's northern state of Chihuahua is a different kind of backdrop. The rugged, mountainous landscape is harsh, sometimes unforgiving, but undeniably beautiful. One of the largest states in Mexico, Chihuahua is also one of the least visited , which is a shame because it has so much to offer travelers of all budgets.

Chihuahua is deeply rooted in indigenous and colonial history. It also happens to be home to one of the largest canyons in the world — Barrancas del Cobre. Visitors can explore the canyon via the famous El Chepe train , which traverses the entire canyon, crossing nearly 40 bridges and through more than 80 tunnels as it makes its way to Los Mochis in Sinaloa. Along the way are many opportunities to do half-, full-, and multi-day hikes to waterfalls and trails for horseback riding and mountain biking. Rates on El Chepe’s tourist class start at 700 pesos ($40). First class starts at 1,200 pesos ($70).

In Chihuahua's eponymous capital city, travelers on a budget can freely wander through the Centro Historico and its maze of architecture, restaurants, and nightlife. The stunning Metropolitan Cathedral dates back to the 18th century, while Plaza de Armas is ideal for people-watching.

Regional cuisine is excellent (and excellently priced), with popular dishes ranging from street tacos and Gorditas to carne asada and menudo. La Cocineria is one of the best spots in town for regional norteño cuisine.

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Colorful Campeche is a visual marvel — a colonial kaleidoscope of brilliantly hued buildings perched on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. Wandering the Centro Historico feels like a jump back through the centuries as you marvel at the cobblestone streets; the orange, blue, pink, and yellow of the historic structures; and the gleaming white San Francisco de Campeche Cathedral that overlooks the square.

Downtown Campeche is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the historic structures within the fortified walls are free to explore. Campeche also has a gorgeous malecon that is free to explore, combining seaside views with centuries of history.

No matter where you are in the city, you are sure to find a fantastic seafood restaurant. Campeche’s cuisine draws inspiration from the sea and Yucatecan traditions, like fried fish, cochinita pibil, or panuchos piled high with pulled chicken or turkey.

The city is a perfect starting point from which to dive deeper into the state to discover archaeological sites like Edzná and Calakmul, two immense Mayan cities that receive far fewer visitors than destinations like Chichen Itza or Tulum. In fact, the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve is the largest natural reserve in Mexico, spanning nearly 2,800 square miles.

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Mexico on a Budget (Travel Guide 2022)

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MEXICO TRAVEL GUIDE CONTENTS

❶  What You Need to Know ❷  Budget for Mexico ❸  Best Seasons to Go to Mexico

❹  What to Pack for Mexico ❺  Things to do in Mexico ❻  Mexican Festivals and Holidays

❼  What to Eat in Mexico ❽ Places to go in Mexico ❾ Where to Stay in Mexico

Are you planning a trip to Mexico? This gigantic Mexico guide tells you everything you need to know about travel to Mexico on a budget. It includes a packing list, safety tips, foods to try, where to go, and how to find the best beaches.

Mexico is the land of margaritas and mariachi! What’s more exciting than snoozing on a beach, drinking $1 margaritas encompassed by sunshine, sombreros, and serenades? Or walking the busy streets at a festival in Oaxaca surrounded by giant paper mache skeletons?

Vamos! Let’s go! I’m stoked to share my best tips and tricks with you in this travel guide to Mexico and teach you how to max out on the Mexico fun! Whether you are just daydreaming or planning a trip to Mexico, grab a pen and a poncho, and let’s get going! Here’s your guide to budget travel to Mexico!

PLANNING A TRIP TO MEXICO ON A BUDGET

If you are planning a trip to Mexico and you’ve never been before, you will surely have a number of questions about the country. We aim to answer every single question you might have about Mexico so you’ll feel totally on top of everything before you go.

Even if you’ve been to Mexico before, you’ll be sure to find golden nuggets of information sure to make your travel around the country easier. I’m going to show you how to plan a trip to Mexico on a budget!

The biggest concern for many is the question of ‘is Mexico Safe?’ Simply, Mexico is safer than you think, but you should know how to avoid trouble too. We talk more about all of this in the section below .

Make sure you pack medicine for upset stomachs. Whether you drank one too many margaritas or just had a burrito that didn’t sit well with you… it’s always better to be safe than sorry! We also go into packing essentials for Mexico below as well.

You’re also probably also thinking ‘ How much money should I take to Mexico?’ There are ATMs accessible everywhere so there is no need to carry wads of cash. Plus most tourist destinations take cards.

We didn’t have more than 1000 pesos in our wallet most of the time, and this would cover eating and drinking out and transport around town.

What You Need to Know When Planning a Trip to Mexico

Language – The language spoken in Mexico is Spanish, which sounds like a DUH moment, but hey, let’s be extra clear here. Most of the tourist hotspots are filled with people who can speak English.

On the other hand, my friend who is from Mexico says that throughout the country, probably only 40% of the population speaks English, just depends on how touristy you go. So it never hurts to brush up on some handy Spanish phrases. ( See below , friends!)

Visa – It’s always a good idea to check up on Mexico visa requirements – for that matter, any country’s visa requirements before traveling.

If you’re from the USA , UK, Canada, Australia , Japan, or any country in the Schengen, you won’t need a visa to visit Mexico. You just need to present your passport and fill out an immigration form at the airport and voila – you’re in!

Currency – Mexico is the land of pesos (MXN). Currently, 1 USD is roughly 21.5 MXN pesos, and 1 Euro is approximately 24 MXN pesos. The rates do fluctuate though, so it’s best to check a currency calculator.

There are awesome free apps out there; just go to the App Store and pick your poison. With such good Mexican currency conversions, it’s super easy to do Mexico on a budget. Although, you can also live large and do luxury for a lot less than you would in many other destinations!

ATMs – As Mexico gets more touristy, more and more ATMs are offering free transaction fees when using their ATMs. When I went, the only free ATM in Mexico was Citibank. Usually, ATMs in Mexico are free as long as they are part of the same network of the bank that you wish to withdraw money from. If in doubt, you can ask to find out with your bank which ATMs in Mexico allow feeless withdrawals.

Other than that, most of the ATM fees are only around 30 to 80 pesos, so it’s really not too bad! Also, most popular tourist places accept cards, so if your credit card doesn’t have foreign transaction fees – swipe that puppy and get spending!

Safety – Be careful of credit card scammers. Don’t let anyone take your card and walk away with it. I know some places we put our card in our bill and let the waiter ferry it away! But no, keep that card close at hand and don’t let it be whisked away to be copied down somewhere else. Avoid using debit cards that are directly linked to your bank account, stick to credit cards.

There are places in Mexico that do have high crime rates, so be a safe and smart traveler and don’t wander alone at night through sketchy alleyways. Don’t carry all your valuables with you either, stash some money or an extra credit card in a different spot than the rest, just in case the worst happens! Stay in groups at night and use your common sense.

LGBT Rights – LGBT rights in Mexico are pretty good and progressive; same-sex marriage is legal in 24 states, and there has been sexual orientation protection countrywide since 2003. I do want to mention that Puerto Vallarta has a fabulous gay scene. The city has lots of bars and hotels geared towards the community.

If you’re not too far off the beaten path in Mexico – in the rural and perhaps more old school areas – I’d say that there really isn’t much discrimination for people in the LGBT community who decide to travel and visit Mexico.

Electricity – I’ve never experienced a power outage in Mexico. In rural areas, they may lose power sometimes, but for every place I’ve been, power has never been an issue. Even running water hasn’t been an issue! The tourism industry in Mexico is massive, so they want to keep the tourists happy – electricity and running water are musts, right?

Electrical Sockets – The Mexico plugs and sockets are Type A and B. For you electricity-savvy humans out there, the standard voltage is 127 V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. That means if you’re from the USA, you don’t need a travel adapter in Mexico. If you’re from the UK, you definitely will need an adapter and converter!

Annoyances in Mexico

For all the first-timers to Mexico, be prepared to meet many locals trying to sell you trinkets. There’s a never-ending wave of people always trying to sell you something. It can be a little overwhelming, but just buckle down and plow ahead, dears! I will usually say a stern but respectful “no, thank you” if someone tries to sell me something directly.

If you are doing a road trip around Mexico (which I highly recommend, by the way) you may encounter roadblocks in some areas. Around the Yucatan Peninsula, the people blocking the roads simply want a coin or two of your spare change before letting you through. However, in some areas, the roadblocks are due to civil protests and could be dangerous. Please research your routes using my guide or joining a Facebook Group and asking for the latest information.

Transportation in Mexico

Bus – Depending on location, there are local buses without air conditioning for a handful of pesos. There are also luxury tourist buses that are definitely my favorite way to travel! I love traveling by bus when backpacking Mexico because you avoid baggage craziness and stress – and you get to see more of the country that way. Also, sometimes, you get the best travel stories on buses – like people bringing chickens along for the ride. You never know what will happen!

The bigger bus companies that operate across Mexico are ADO, Primera Plus, Estrella de Oro, Omnibus de Mexico, and ETN. The easiest way to book long-distance buses is to head to your nearest bus terminal a day or two in advance. Some companies such as ADO also allow you to purchase your tickets online.

Colectivo – This is one of my favorite ways to travel Mexico cheap. A colectivo is usually a minivan that acts as a bus picking people up at the terminals and along the road. They are usually extremely cheap and super fast. Just ask your hotel about the route you want to take or do a quick google search. Colectivo is the ULTIMATE budget travel Mexico style, do as the Mexicans do!

Taxi/Uber – If you feel like spending a little extra, taxis are plentiful in tourist hotspots and start from 20 MXN pesos (0.83 c USD). Depending on the city you are flagging them down from, the price will vary. For example, taxis in Cancun is are some of the most expensive ones in Mexico starting at 70 MXN pesos. Uber is slightly cheaper and operates in most of the touristy cities in Mexico. Keep in mind that Uber is a threat to the local taxi organizations so the operating areas of Uber in Mexico change occasionally.

Airplane – Mexico does have a handful of budget airlines, like Avolar, Azteca, Click, Interjet, Viva Aerobus, and Volaris. You can get stoked about super cheap fares, but as always with budget airlines, beware of the crazy baggage fees and requirements!

I use a combination of Skyscanner and Google Flights to find the lowest possible flight prices. You’ll be surprised about how cheap some of the internal flights within Mexico can get!

Car Hire – Renting a car in Mexico is super easy. It’s generally the same as it is anywhere else in the world. I highly recommend hiring a car to get between towns along the Riviera Maya and other places on the Yucatan Peninsula. We recommend using Hertz .

To rent a car in Mexico, you have to be 21 years old or over (max 75 years old) and have held your license for a minimum of two years. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. These guidelines may vary between rental suppliers though. I almost always rent cars through Hertz Car Rental since they are trustworthy and well-priced. Make sure you read my post on driving around Mexico to get tips on covering your butt when hiring a car in Mexico.

Subway – Mexico City and Guadalajara have great subway systems, and I highly recommend using them. They are cheap, fast and convenient. You can get a one-way ticket to most places in the city for 5 MXN pesos (0.25 c USD).

Mexico City truck Planning a trip to Mexico on a budget

USEFUL PHRASES IN MEXICO

The language they speak in Mexico isn’t Mexican, it’s Spanish. So if there are Mexican words and phrases, they’re all slang terms heard only in Mexico. It’s a great idea for travelers to learn a few key Spanish phrases when planning a trip to Mexico.

Plus, it is always fun to make new local friends and show off your knowledge of the local Mexican phrases or impress a waiter, so I have included a few of my favorite Mexican slang words below.

Spanish is a pretty universal language, so you’ve probably picked up a few words here and there through osmosis. Just in case you haven’t, let’s cover the bases with a few key words and phrases!

Hola – Hello Cómo estás? – How are you? Bien, ¿y tú? – Good, how about you? Si – Yes No – No Yo quiero, yo no quiero – I want, I don’t want Dónde está…? – Where is…? Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost? Tienes…? – Do you have…? Yo tengo, yo no tengo – I have, I don’t have Yo entiendo, yo no entiendo – I understand, I don’t understand ¿Entiende? – Do you understand? El baño – The bathroom Agua – Water

Mexican Slang

Güey – Mate/dude Gringo – A person from the USA ¿Qué onda? – What’s up? Buena Onda – Cool No manches – No way Baboso – Dumb/stupid Órale – Right on/cool Chingon – stud/bad-ass/macho man Chela – Beer Culo – Butt/ass Mamacita – An attractive woman

Mexican family cooking for Reasons to love Mexico

BEST BOOKING RESOURCES FOR MEXICO TRAVEL

The following is a list of the best booking agencies for Mexico travel planning. I use these companies over and over again when I travel to Mexico and I have found they consistently have the best prices and great services. Most even have their own apps which make the booking process even easier.

Booking Flights to Mexico

Skyscanner – I love the ability on their website to search by month. You can then get an overview of the cheapest flights within the whole month on a calendar layout so you don’t have to manually look at each day separately. I always use Skyscanner to plan my flights.

Google Flights – Another good flight search option. If you hit the grid button during your search you can see a layout similar to Skyscanner with a whole month view. I always check Google Flights to see if they have different or cheaper options to Skyscanner.

Booking Accommodation in Mexico

Booking.com – This is always my first option when searching for accommodation. They consistently have the best prices, a lot of the time their prices are even lower than walking in off the street! Trust me, we tried doing that several times. Plus they have great loyalty discounts, so after you have used them a few times you will see those amazing discounts pop up. If you aren’t already signed up for Booking, here’s $25 off your first stay .

Airbnb – If you prefer the comfort of staying in a home when you travel or like the idea of living with local people, Airbnb is a great alternative. I use them a lot when I travel, especially for long stays where I would like access to a kitchen.

Hostelworld – The best booking website for hostels out there. They have a huge number of hostels listed with a great interface. They are easy to use and cheap.

Couchsurfing – This is a website that puts you in contact with local people at your destination and you can stay in their home (couch or spare room) for free. The intention is that you then offer your couch to other surfers once you are able to. The idea of it can be scary for some but I have surfed all over the world and have made very strong positive connections with local people that I would not have otherwise met.

TrustedHousesitters.co m – If you are a long-term traveler and want to stretch out that cash as much as possible, two words, house sit! This website is awesome. Homeowners that need someone to either look after their place or to look after their fur babies create home profiles and date ranges of when they need someone to help. This is a great option if you can line up back-to-back house sits, which means no money spent on accommodation! There is a small sign-up fee of $100 USD, but if that’s all you have to pay it makes travel very cheap in the long term. I did this in Cozumel for 2 months and Puerto Escondido for 3 months.

Booking Tours in Mexico

Get Your Guide – This website is a search interface for a large range of local tours offered at your destination. Whether you want to hire a guide to take you to cenotes or show you around some ancient ruins, Get Your Guide is the best place to look.

Viator – Viator is the tour booking company associated with TripAdvisor. If you prefer using TripAdvisor while planning a trip to Mexico, Viator can help you book those experiences.

Booking Transport around Mexico

Hertz – My go-to for booking rental cars. They are trustworthy and always at a good price.

Uber – Uber is like booking a taxi, but with a local person in their own car. The entire process is organized through the app and the rating and tracking system keeps you safe. You can even share your trip live with someone at home if you are worried about safety. They also have an UberPool option in some cities where the driver will pick up other passengers along the way, essentially making your trip cheaper since you share the costs. Uber is only available in some states, so check the app once you are there.

Bla Bla Car – Do you need to get from A to B but don’t want to take a bus? Consider booking rideshare with Bla Bla Car. It’s like UberPool but for longer distances and it’s cheaper. The driver simply places their route within the app a few days before the trip and then passengers buy seats on the trip. In Mexico, I found Bla Bla Car to be even cheaper than the buses on some routes.

ADO – This is the main tourist bus company that serves roughly the eastern half of the country. Anyone can book buses using their website, however, if you don’t speak Spanish you may find the navigation a little difficult. You can also book ADO buses at the bus terminals and in most tour offices.

Travel Insurance

World Nomads – The best travel insurance for long-term travel which covers medical and property. They are also great because you can insure yourself once you are already overseas, which most companies do not offer.

SafetyWing – Another backpacker favorite and are often cheaper than World Nomads.

Clements – This is more of an expat insurance than traveler insurance as you need an overseas address. They offer really good coverage for personal property, especially for items that aren’t fully covered by your general travel insurance.

MEXICO BUDGET COMPARISON

It’s easy to travel to Mexico on a budget. Street food is incredibly cheap and even food in local eateries is shockingly budget-friendly. Accommodation is going to be one of your largest expenses in Mexico, but as long as you use the websites I recommend above, you’ll be able to find some really good deals on hotels.

If you are doing Mexico on a strict budget, I recommend limiting the number of different places you visit, to save money on travel. But catching colectivos and buses will keep your costs down too if you do need to travel to different areas.

Here is a quick overview of the type of prices involved with calculating your Mexico budget. It shows expected costs for backpackers, mid-range, and luxury travelers for comparison. This is the average cost of traveling in Mexico, just keep in mind that some places in Mexico are more expensive than others.

BEST SEASONS IN MEXICO

The weather in Mexico isn’t just sun, sun, sun. Mexico is a huge country and it isn’t sunshine everywhere all day. From snowy mountains to arid deserts, Mexico has it all. However, if you’re heading to the coast, it is balmy and pleasant year-round. But there is a rainy season too that you should be aware of. Generally, the rainy season is May through September/October.

Mexico is also at risk of hurricanes; nothing wrecks a vacation like a natural disaster. June through November is hurricane season, so check the weather forecasts and precautions. If you’re not hitting up the coastline, Google to find the weather details for each region by month. My favorite month to hit up the beaches in Mexico is in November, right after the rainy season. Gotta love warm days and cool nights!

Riviera Maya weather – The Riviera Maya covers the area between Cancun and Tulum. It includes Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel Island. Spring (March to June) is the best time to go to the Riviera Maya because it’s warm and sunny with just a few showers occasionally. Rainy/hurricane season is from May to September and although the Riviera Maya does not usually get hurricanes but the area can still get bad tropical storms.

If possible, avoid places in the Riviera Maya during July and August and the period from mid-December to early January since they are big tourist months.

Puerto Vallarta weather – Want to go to Puerto Vallarta on the pacific coast? The high tourist season is November to March. If you’re looking for a super good deal, hotel rates go way down (sometimes by 40%!) in July and October. You can expect college party-goers and rain in July, so October is my favorite month!

Mexico City weather – In Mexico City, rain hits in May and continues to fall on vacationers until halfway through October. I recommend going in November because it won’t be too hot or too rainy; if you time it right, you can even participate in the famous Day of the Dead celebrations!

Cabo San Lucas weather – If Cabo San Lucas is calling your name, you definitely want to plan a trip during February and March, when the Pacific Gray Whales migrate from the Arctic to mate and give birth off the shores of Cabo. Talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness!

Our top 10 reasons you’ll love Mexico! From the beautiful colors of Mexico, to strong Mexican culture and aesthetic. Fiestas, food and Day of the Dead. This is our Mexico bucket list full of culture and colours!
🇲🇽 💃 🌮 🌵 #Mexico #Food #CwC #photography #tips

WHAT TO PACK FOR MEXICO

When deciding what to pack for Mexico, where you are going will definitely influence what you pack. Because Mexico is utterly huge with loads of different biomes and temperatures take a look at my gigantic packing list for helpful advice on packing for Mexico.

Below, I’ll list some items you might forget to bring to Mexico. but first, let’s talk about the ideal type of backpack for Mexico travel.

trips to mexico on a budget

Osprey Fairview 65L Wheeled Backpack

A backpack crossed with a suitcase! The Osprey Fairview 65L Wheeled Backpack is easily the best backpack ever. The functionality is perfect. I rarely need to use the Osprey Fairview 65L Wheeled Backpack as an actual backpack, but when I do it’s easy to set up and works perfectly. But for most of the travel, I use it as a rolling suitcase which saves my back and means I can put heavier things in it without worrying about whether I’ll be able to carry it. This is the best multifunctional luggage that is perfect for traveling Mexico.

Packing for Mexico: Don’t Forget These Items

Here’s a list of all of the items you might easily forget when packing for Mexico. Click this link for a full comprehensive packing guide .

✔︎ Vaccination certificates ✔︎ Passport ✔︎ Biodegradable sunscreen (for snorkeling/cenotes) ✔︎ Aloe vera gel ✔︎ Bug repellant ✔︎ Chapstick ✔︎ Travel sewing kit ✔︎ Waterproof phone case ✔︎ Luggage locks

✔︎ Life Straw Water purification ✔︎ Rehydration packets ✔︎ Travel First-Aid kit ✔︎ Motion sickness wristbands ✔︎ Anti-theft belted wallet ✔︎ Travel pillow ✔︎ Microfibre towel ✔︎ Sarong ✔︎ Open hiking shoes ✔︎ Exercise/yoga pants

✔︎ Portable charger ✔︎ Mexico Travel adapter ✔︎ Lens kit for phone ✔︎ Wrap-around grip tripod ✔︎ Wireless speaker ✔︎ Headphone splitter ✔︎ Digital luggage scale ✔︎ Flashcard/USB ✔︎ Spare SD cards ✔︎ E-Reader

The colours of Mexico for Reasons to love Mexico

BEST THINGS TO DO IN MEXICO

Other than the obvious activities in Mexico like sunbaking on the beach, getting a massage or drinking a margarita, these are the best things to do in Mexico.

Swim in a Cool Cenote

Just what is a cenote you ask? It’s a natural sinkhole that occurs when a cave ceiling collapses and exposes the groundwater underneath. There are thousands of them all over the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, with a majority of them concentrated around Tulum, Bacalar, Valladolid, and Merida. The Yucatan Peninsula is like a giant sponge made of limestone, with cenotes all over the area. The cenotes were sacred to the Ancient Mayan people and it is understood that it is only because of these cenotes that their civilization was able to advance the way it did.

The cenote prices in Mexico vary, some are quite expensive over in the Tulum area but we found the Valladolid cenotes are more affordable and just as beautiful.

If you are interested in visiting a cenote somewhere in the Yucatan Peninsula, be sure to read my huge guides that help you find cenotes closest to your destination. These are the cenote guides I have: Tulum Cenotes | Riviera Maya Cenotes | Valladolid Cenotes . Or book a tour here!

Xcanche Cenote - Best Valladolid Cenotes

Explore The Reef by Scuba Diving

There are absolutely fantastic scuba diving opportunities in Mexico. If scuba diving isn’t your cup of tea, snorkeling is a must. It’s pretty inexpensive to rent gear, so enjoy exploring the marine world at budget prices. I especially loved scuba diving with the manta rays at Socorro Island. Mind-blowing! Or, I’ve heard that at Isla San Pedro you can see baby sea lions. Apparently, 400 sea lions call San Pedro their home.

If you’re headed to the Riviera Maya, there is amazing scuba diving off Cancun , Cozumel Island, and Isla Mujeres. Cozumel is best for reef diving while Isla Mujeres boasts a shipwreck and an underwater museum.

trips to mexico on a budget

Swim with the Fish While Snorkeling

There is pretty awesome snorkeling off the entire coast of Mexico. If you’re in the water with a mask and snorkel, the chances are you’ll see something very cool. The best snorkeling spot is in Isla Mujeres , which is offshore from Cancun. Here, you can snorkel with hundreds of whale sharks ! They are generally around from June to September each year. That’s definitely a Mexico bucket list item !

Highly recommended is the snorkeling in the cenotes near Playa del Carmen and Tulum . Cenote Azul is bountiful with rocks and freshwater fish, and Casa Cenote is closely connected to the sea, so is filled with some very interesting brackish-water fish like cichlids and giant tarpon.

Casa cenote from a drone for Planning a trip to Mexico on a budget cover

Learn to Surf

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, or maybe you’re already a pro, why not go surfing! With 5,797 miles (9,330 km) of gorgeous coastline, grab a surfboard and go! And a little tip for those surfers who like empty waters, the further south you venture in Mexico, the more empty the beaches are of tourists and other surfers.

Puerto Escondido is perhaps Mexico’s most famous surfing spot. You can easily find surfing lessons on beaches in this town for as little as 500 MXN ($23 USD) per hour for a one-on-one lesson.

Marvel at Ancient Temples, Pyramids, and Ruins

Hiking an ancient Aztec or Mayan ruin should be on your Mexico bucket list ! When you travel to Mexico, don’t leave out the ruins. Make sure you visit some of the ancient architectural gems of Mexico. Teotihuacan is probably the most well-known pyramid in Mexico, and for good reason. It is unknown as to who actually built Teotihuacan, but the civilization unquestionably built it by hand more than a thousand years before the Aztecs arrived. However, it is the Aztecs that gave it its present-day name.

The Nohoch Mul pyramid in Coba is also dazzling; it’s the tallest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula and offers stunning views of the jungle. It’s only 120 steps high, which doesn’t sound like a Fitbit goal or anything, but my oh my those steps are steep! It’s well worth it for the experience and views.

Teotihuacan pyramid ruins for Planning a trip to Mexico on a budget

Dig Deep into Museums in Mexico City

Personally, I love Mexico City’s urban vibes and cool, modern architecture – plus, it’s mega affordable. If you’re in Mexico City , definitely hit up as many museums as you can. Mexico City actually has more museums than any other city in the whole wide world. My favorite is the Frida Kahlo House . What an artist, what a woman!

Bellas Artes Mexico City for Planning a trip to Mexico on a budget

Lap Up All the Mexican Food

My favorite thing to do in Mexico is to hunt down the best tacos! Crunch and munch down on salty and salsa-filled goodness. I’m seriously getting cravings right now. Don’t expect American-style tacos when you arrive, either. These bad boys are filled with carne asada, cochinita, adobada, chorizo, fish, shrimp, or marlin tacos. Don’t worry, you can diet later. And it’s the tastiest way to do Mexico on the cheap.

Revel in Architecture Walks and Tours

I love the diverse architecture in Mexico, so not taking the time to walk around and explore the cities you visit is simply inexcusable! The pink quarry stone buildings in Morelia, Michoacan are jaw-dropping. So are the cities of San Cristobal de las Casas and Oaxaca City which are known for their beautiful colonial buildings. There are stunning cathedrals sprinkled through the entire country too that are not to be missed. Walking tours are great for your Mexico budget travel journey, as most of them are run by volunteers and you just tip or donate a reasonable amount.

San Cristobal de las Casas houses for Planning a trip to Mexico on a budget

Become Thrilled by Lucha Libre

Maybe wrestling isn’t your thing, I get it. But Lucha Libre is critical to Mexican culture and those masked Luchadores are iconic, come on! Instead of chilling on a Friday night with a book, go to a Lucha Libre match and bask in the machismo glory!

Fly High With Parasailing

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico, you’re probably keen on getting in the water. Enjoy those sea activities to the fullest! But if you’re just a little wary of surfing or scuba diving, definitely go parasailing. There are tons of spots that offer parasailing , from Cancun to Playa del Carmen .

Spot Sea Turtles Nesting and Hatching

Sea turtles are fiercely protected in Mexico and Mexican waters, and this pays off for visitors. At Akumal, you can swim with huge sea turtles who go there to munch on the seagrass. You can help let go of baby turtles during the summer months around Cancun, Isla Mujeres, and Tulum. You can see turtles mating at almost any time of year in the waters around Puerto Escondido, Huatulco, and Oaxaca in general. Because of this, there are a few places that support letting free baby turtles for a small fee in these areas.

Want to know how you can see turtles nest and hatch in Mexico, read my turtle spotting guide .

Releasing baby turtles at Playa Bacocho for Best Beaches in Oaxaca Mexico

Go on an Adventurous Road Trip

Mexico is a great country to take a road trip in. Car rental is super cheap and if you plan to drive from the USA into Mexico, the process is quite simple and straightforward. If you hire a car to do a Yucatan Peninsula road trip around the Riviera Maya and beyond, the roads are flat and easy. Coming from the USA you can see the spectacular coastline of Baja California. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Why not do a Mexico City to Oaxaca road trip to delve right into Central Mexican culture.

Want to know more about driving in Mexico as well as read about 5 different but equally awesome Mexican road trips? Read my Mexico road trip guide .

Cactus reserve for driving in Mexico road trip planner

HOLIDAYS AND FESTIVALS IN MEXICO

Day of the dead (dia de los muertos).

It’s hard to imagine Mexico without thinking of the colorful skull decorations and orange carnations of the Day of the Dead celebration. A two-day Mexican celebration each year on November 1 and 2, Dia de Muertos is a vibrant festival in which families remember and celebrate lost loved ones.

But there’s much more to Dia de Los Muertos than you could ever read about in a book and taking part in local Mexican celebrations is an intimate and authentic way of traveling Mexico. To learn about how you can do Dia de Los Muertos in Oaxaca, read my guide: How to do Day of the Dead the Mexican way .

Did you know that Mexico also has its own Carnival? In late February or early March, Mexico celebrates Carnival in true Mexican style – with colorful parades and lots of music and dancing. I recommend going to Carnival in La Paz or Veracruz, but I’m sure the whole country does Carnival the right way!

The Folk Dance Festival

It’s worth mentioning the Guelaguetza Dance Festival in Oaxaca, Guelaguetza. This traditional dance folk festival takes place each year in the middle of July. It’s filled with all the best Mexico’s indigenous tribes have to offer, from traditional dancing to native bands and gorgeous handicrafts – time to stock up on the souvenirs!

The Guadalajara International Film Festival

Another Mexican festival I want to plant a seed in your head about attending is Guadalajara’s International Film Festival. It’s usually in March and is a wonderful nine-day festival to see some of Latin America’s emerging filmmakers.

Day of the dead in Panteon Xoxo oaxaca - Day of the Dead Oaxaca - Dia de los Muertos Oaxaca

MEXICAN TRADITIONS

The afternoon siesta.

Sometimes, it’s nice to be a nap queen (or king). In Mexico, it’s a daily part of the routine to nap it up in the afternoon right after lunch. Snuggle up on the couch after a burrito and treat yourself to an authentic Mexican tradition – siestas!

Mariachi Music

Oh, mariachi! The tradition of mariachi music dates back to the 18th century and is a crucial part of Mexico’s music history. A small group of musicians, mostly playing string instruments, wear traditional “charro” costumes. Catching a mariachi show is a must of visiting Mexico. Listening on Spotify doesn’t count, guys.

This is my favorite of all the Mexican traditions. In many Mexican songs, but especially in mariachi music, you will hear a distinctive yell, interjected with a passion that speaks to the soul. It is a sort of “aaaaaaayeeeee” or “ahhhhhaahaaa” sound that represents a long, drawn-out laugh, or sometimes the wail of a mournful cry.

This yell is called a ‘grito’ and is an internationally recognized behavior in Mexican culture. Music isn’t the only place reserved for a ‘grito’ though. Mexican people practice and perfect their own special ‘grito’ from a young age and grito competitions between family members at gatherings are commonplace.

The Quinceañera

This is an important celebration in Mexico as it marks the passage from a girl into a woman on her 15th birthday. The fiesta is generally as expensive as the means of the family will allow. Usually, the day will involve the daughter dressing up in elaborate clothing, going to mass, cutting a giant cake, and having a party with friends and family.

Often, entire streets will be shut off unauthorized by family members while neighbors and passers-by are invited to join in on sharing food and drinks. If you are ever invited to a quinceañera, take up the offer. The parties are often wild and a true example of Latin-American culture.

I’ve whacked a good few piñatas in my day. I’m sure you have too! All the coolest elementary school birthday parties, had them right? Well, in Mexico it isn’t a fiesta without a piñata. Apparently, the ancient Aztecs had a similar tradition involving clay pots. It is also thought that the tradition has Chinese origins.

Family Focus

Most of the traditions of Mexico are focused on family. Mexico is a country renowned for its bright, vibrant fiestas and religious celebrations that place families right in the center. I love how family-focused the culture and traditions of Mexico are. They have such beautiful rituals and practices of honoring the members of their family with food, fun, and festivities.

In fact, there are almost innumerable holidays and traditions in Mexico that bring families together to celebrate their connection. You’re fortunate if you get invited to a family holiday celebration. If you do receive the honor, make sure you bring flowers and gifts as a sign of appreciation.

Want to read more about Mexican traditions that are endemic to Mexico and make the country so special, take a look at my post; Reasons to Love Mexico .

Mexican dancers for Reasons to love Mexico

WHAT TO EAT IN MEXICO

Delicious oozy meat covered in luscious sauces, pickled onion, and coriander. Yum! There are so many types of amazing tacos but my favorites are always ones that involve marinated and slow-cooked meats. For me, Cochinita Pibil is the best, slow-cooked underground with citrus. Al Pastor is a close second, is based on shawarma spit-grilled meat brought by Lebanese immigrants to Mexico. It is best paired with jalapeño cream. Google the best tacos in your area and go exploring!

Flavorful Mole

Besides delighting in tacos, make sure you try the crazy umami flavors of mole. There are, in fact, three states that claim to be the original home of mole. If you have never heard of mole, it’s a rich sauce that has 20 or more ingredients including chocolate. Each mole will taste a little different because each family’s or restaurant’s recipe is usually passed down for generations.

Tasty Tamales

What to eat in Mexico? Don’t forget to gobble down some tamales. I can practically still taste them. Please go out and eat a tamale or two for me! The genesis of tamales was actually from the ancient Aztec, Mayan, and Inca tribes, who needed portable food to take into battle. Wrapped like a present in either corn husks or banana leaves, these pocket-sized cornmeal blankets, stuffed with vegetables and meats, is pure yumminess.

trips to mexico on a budget

PLACES TO GO IN MEXICO

These are the best places to go in Mexico, ranked for their strong culture, amazing beaches or awesome activities, and how cute the actual township is.

Tulum is home to some of the best-preserved 1,000-year-old Mayan ruins that have the Caribbean ocean in the background. Talk about astounding… Tulum is also home to some mind-blowing cenotes that you can explore by either snorkeling or scuba diving (an adventure I highly recommend, if you are game enough). Tulum is just 90 minutes south of Cancun and has incredible white sand beaches and really impressive jungle-immersed hotels and restaurants which are what makes this place so special. Tulum can be pricey and may eat into your travel budget but it’s worth having a look.

AguaTulum Ruins for Planning a trip to Mexico on a budget

Isla Cozumel

Indeed, Cozumel Island with its gorgeous turquoise waters and perfectly powdery sands is exactly what I can’t get enough of! It is crowded though, but this small island has so much to offer. The shallow reefs are glorious, especially for scuba diving. There are fun tours you can do like a jeep safari with reef snorkeling . But I also recommend watching the underwater magic unfold through a glass-bottom boat tour .

Cozumel Island from a drone for Planning a trip to Mexico on a budget

Mexico City

Mexico City is the museum hot spot, remember? Plus, it’s also got mega-awesome street art! Pretty much the whole country has lots of amazing street artists throwing up their art all over the city, but Mexico City is a great place to explore and appreciate. In the central part of Mexico City known as the Zocalo, there’s basically a mural around every corner! There are also organized street food and art tours if you want to find a group! For more information, read my Mexico City guide .

Wondering where to stay in Mexico City? I stumbled upon Casai which are the up-and-coming competitors to Airbnb.

The point of difference is that Casai owns the vacation apartments, which means they are thoughtfully designed and selected in fantastic neighborhoods, filled with local artisan and artist decor, updated with smart technology and fast wifi, and who doesn’t want a 24/7 concierge that can help with tickets and events.

Mexico City Templo de Meyor for Planning a trip to Mexico on a budget

Oaxaca state and Oaxaca City are both seriously awesome places to go in Mexico. They are full of Mexican culture, art, and biodiversity. Plus Oaxaca boasts some of the best beaches in Mexico, don’t believe me? Read my Oaxaca beaches post, featuring beaches in Puerto Escondido, Huatulco, and Chacahua.

Oaxaca is one of the poorest states in Mexico, so this means that travel in this state is extremely cheap. In Oaxaca City , you will also have the chance to encounter a strong art scene (have you ever heard of alebrijes?) as well as the gorgeous cobblestone streets and colorful buildings that all your Mexico dreams are made of. I very much recommend a popular day tour from Oaxaca City to an impressive petrified waterfall, that stops at the archeological zone of Mitla as well as a mezcal factory and a textile workshop.

Artisan textiles in Oaxaca for Reasons to love Mexico

Palenque is a fantastic off-the-beaten-path destination in Mexico for two reasons: Palenque Ruins and cascades! Palenque Ruins are a mesmerizing set of ruins made even more special by the fact that you can climb on them (you can’t climb most ruins in Mexico). The Palenque Ruins are just as important historically as Chichen Itza, Uxmal, and Tikal, mainly for their extensive hieroglyphics that tell stories and show historical facts.

The Agua Azul Cascades is also a top-rated activity in Palenque. They are a series of bright blue waterfalls set amongst the rainforest that visitors can swim in. The natural waterpark is surely an adventure, and exploring the site in full will take an entire day.

Want to know more about Palenque? Read my full Chiapas Guide .

Agua Azul from a drone near Palenque for Planning a trip to Mexico on a budget

Okay, I want to let you in on a little secret gem in Mexico. It’s free of American chain restaurants and free of spring break students going wild. It’s the magical small beach town in Cabo Corrientes, Jalisco called Yelapa. It is one of my favorite places to go in Mexico. It’s very close to Puerto Vallarta, a city which I’ve already expressed my adoration for. And Yelapa is quite near to the world’s 7th largest bay – the Bahía de Banderas.

Puerto Vallarta

So, if I haven’t talked you into checking out Yelapa , definitely at least pop over and visit Puerto Vallarta. The beaches, scuba diving, and snorkeling opportunities there are endless. It’s also a little less westernized than places like Cancun and Cabo San Lucas, so I appreciate that I get more local Mexican vibes there. Plus you can do a tour to the famous Playa del Amor on the Marieta Islands – you’ve surely seen those stunning pictures of the secluded beach!

If you’re staying in Puerto Vallarta, try to avoid staying in the Nuevo side of town, which has become a bit too fancy and westernized. When traveling to Mexico, we want things safe and comfortable, but still want to feel like we’re in Mexico, right?

Close to Puerto Escondido and Huatulco, sits a small unassuming coastal town called Mazunte. It is somewhat of a secret meaning it is almost completely free of tourists during the off-season. It has just one main street lined with luxurious hotels that are budget-friendly as well as some health food restaurants and a whole lot of yoga studios.

The beach is covered in gorgeous golden sands and if you are there during the summer you may even find the sand completely covered in turtles nesting in “arribadas”. Looking for more information on Mazunte? Read my things to do in Mazunte post.

Playa Mazunte - travel to oaxaca mexico - things to do in oaxaca

WHERE TO STAY IN MEXICO ON A BUDGET

Mexico is a huge country with lots of good accommodation to offer for any and every price range. Even those penny pinchers out there will be thrilled at the great budget options both on Airbnb and booking.com . Just remember to book your accommodation early, especially if you’re booking a popular hotel. Mexico can get really busy in the high season, so book early and avoid disappointment!

The most budget option, which I did twice during my travels in Mexico, is to house sit. I stayed for two months on Cozumel Island and three months in Puerto Escondido for FREE! How? Through this website trustedhousesitters.com . There are a lot of ex-pats who travel back to their home countries that like to have people stay at their houses, water the plants, and feed their animals.

I don’t know about you, but I sure could use some time kicking back on the beach with a good book and a margarita right now. Whether you are in winter weather and want to escape the cold, or you’re looking to learn to surf or attend a festival, there’s so much Mexico has to offer. Maybe it is time to plan a trip to Mexico after all…

LATEST POSTS ABOUT MEXICO

cover photo of Tangolunda bay for best beaches in Oaxaca post

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trips to mexico on a budget

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Cover for the Best Cenotes in Tulum, Mexico

The Best Cenotes in Tulum (2022 Mexico Expert Guide)

The number one list of best cenotes in Tulum (and Playa Del Carmen). All information updated in 2022. Plus a free cenote map that downloads onto your phone!

roads in playa del carmen for guide to renting a car in playa del carmen, mexico

Guide to Renting a Car in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Need tips on renting a car in Playa del Carmen, Mexico? Our post covers all you’ll possibly need to know, and what to watch out for with Playa del Carmen car rental companies.

Stay in PLaya del Carmen on the beach (pictured)

Best Places to Stay in Playa del Carmen

This list will help you explore the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen including unique hotels, cool hostels, and the best areas in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

Cenote Verde Lucero for Best Riviera Maya Cenotes

The Best Mayan Riviera Cenotes (in Cancun, Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen)

This huge guide lists all of the best Mayan Riviera cenotes including La Ruta de Los Cenotes in Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen cenotes. Includes all you need to know, so you can visit the amazing natural cenotes in the Riviera Maya without paying for a tour!

MEXICO TRAVEL BUDGET FAQS

There are many cheap places to visit in Mexico such as Mexico City, Puebla, Guanajuato City, Guadalajara, Oaxaca, San Cristobal de Las Casas, and Puerto Escondido. Places in or near the Riviera Maya such as Valladolid, Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum can also be traveled cheaply by staying in backpacker hostels, taking public transportation, and doing your own tours. One place in Mexico that might not be suitable for budget traveling is Baja California. This Mexico State is known for its extravagant accommodations, exclusive private tours, and exquisite entertainment venues.

Mexico is one of the cheapest countries to travel to in the world. However, as a popular tourist destination, Mexico has the potential to be both cheap and expensive. When it comes to accommodation, Mexico has a huge variety of selections – from budget hostels to luxurious all-inclusive resorts, so you can spend 10 USD a night or 300 USD a night. The same thing happens for food. You can choose cheap street tacos or dine in one of the extravagant restaurants Tulum or Cabo San Lucas has to offer. Lastly, the same phenomenon happens for tours and visiting places in Mexico. You can decide to take public transport to save money, or take one of the exclusive private tours for more comfort and convenience!

Though Mexico has a notorious reputation when it comes to safety, it is a country that we personally found to be pretty safe. Touristic places tend to be safer than off-the-beaten-path destinations, simply because tourist money is a huge part of Mexico’s economy. Try to avoid being alone on the streets at night and don’t make it easy for potential predators by being under the influence. For travelers that are concerned about safety, there are plenty of guided tours that offer security, convenience, comfort, and professional guides.

How much money do you need per day in Mexico largely depends on what kind of traveler you are? From our experience, budget travelers should be able to travel comfortably on 570 MXN pesos or 26.5 USD per day, mid-range travelers around 1000 MXN pesos or 46 USD, and luxury travelers around 3000 MXN or 139 USD per day.

Woman walks through cactus in Oaxaca for post Planning a trip to Mexico on a budget

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