Top 10 Places to Visit in Mexico

My Top 10 Mexican Destinations (That Actually Deliver)

1. Mexico City (For Culture, Cool & Seriously Good Food)

This city buzzes. It's layered, intense, and endlessly fascinating.

Spend your mornings walking through leafy Coyoacán or Roma Norte, grab chilaquiles from a corner stall, then dive into Frida Kahlo’s house or the massive Museo Nacional de Antropología. At night, head to a rooftop in Condesa or catch live jazz downtown.

And if you think this is just another capital city, think again—it’s a place that’ll challenge your assumptions and leave you inspired.

2. Oaxaca (For Flavor, Craft & Deep Roots)

Oaxaca isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling.

Cobblestone streets, vibrant textiles, mole in every color, and Indigenous traditions that run deep. This city is a feast for all senses. Hit up local markets like Mercado 20 de Noviembre, visit nearby artisan towns like Teotitlán del Valle, or hike in the surrounding mountains.

Stay long enough, and you’ll start to sync with the slower, richer rhythm of life here.

3. Guanajuato (For Color & Colonial Charm)

Guanajuato looks like a fairy tale—and it feels like one too.

This hillside city is packed with narrow alleys, colorful houses, hidden plazas, and underground tunnels that were once rivers. The views from El Pípila or a cable car ride? Unreal. There’s art, music, and history everywhere you look.

It’s ideal for wandering aimlessly, camera in hand and curiosity wide open.

4. Tulum (For Beaches & Boho Energy)

Yes, it’s popular. But done right, Tulum can still wow you.

Get up early for a quiet sunrise at the beachside ruins, bike to a cenote tucked in the jungle, and find a café that feels more treehouse than restaurant. Skip the luxury resorts and stay in a small eco-lodge or a cozy hostel inland—you’ll get a more real version of this tropical paradise.

The coastline is dreamy. The vibe is whatever you make it.

5. San Cristóbal de las Casas (For Mountains & Meaning)

Tucked in the Chiapas highlands, San Cristóbal is a cool-weather mountain town with heart and soul.

You’ll find colorful markets, strong Indigenous presence, and a mix of travelers and locals that make for interesting conversations over strong coffee. It’s close to some of Mexico’s most beautiful nature—like Sumidero Canyon and the El Chiflón waterfalls.

Quiet, thoughtful, and filled with culture that matters.

6. Puebla (For Architecture & Street Food Heaven)

Just two hours from Mexico City, Puebla offers beauty without the chaos.

This city is known for its tiled facades, grand cathedrals, and some of the best food in the country. Ever tried chiles en nogada or tacos árabes? This is the place. The historic center is walkable, clean, and full of surprises—from secret courtyards to antique bookstores.

It’s elegant but approachable. A perfect weekend escape.

7. Puerto Escondido (For Surf, Sunset & Chill)

Looking for a laid-back beach town that hasn’t lost its soul? Puerto Escondido is it.

Surfers flock here for the waves at Zicatela, but even if you don’t surf, you’ll love the calm coves of Carrizalillo or Playa Bacocho. Yoga in the morning, fish tacos at sunset, maybe a night swim with bioluminescence if you’re lucky.

It’s unpolished in the best way.

8. Querétaro (For History & Underrated Cool)

Querétaro is often skipped over—and that’s a mistake.

It’s one of Mexico’s fastest-growing cities, yet the historic center is pure charm: colonial streets, fountains, and plazas full of life. Great food, a blossoming art scene, and wine country just outside the city make this a super well-rounded stop.

Think of it as the cool, lesser-known cousin of San Miguel de Allende—without the tourist crowds.

9. Isla Holbox (For Sea, Sky & Quiet)

If you want tropical beauty without the Cancun chaos, Holbox is calling.

This little island north of the Yucatán Peninsula is all about hammocks, sand streets, flamingos, and stunning sunsets. No cars, just golf carts and bikes. Rent one, ride to the far end of the island, and watch stars spill across the sky.

It’s the kind of place where time disappears.

10. Campeche (For Forts, Pastels & Peaceful Vibes)

Want a quiet, underrated coastal town? Head to Campeche.

This walled city on the Gulf of Mexico is pure pastel perfection. Think painted facades, sea breeze, historic forts, and a feeling like you’ve found a secret. Walk the malecón at sunset, explore Mayan ruins nearby, and enjoy the slow pace.

It’s not loud, it’s not flashy—but it’s beautiful.

Practical Tips for Mexico

When to Go:

• November to April is the dry season and great for travel.

• Avoid Easter if you want to dodge crowds.

Getting Around:

• Buses (like ADO) are reliable and comfy.

• Flights between cities are often cheap.

• For smaller towns, colectivos and taxis work well.

Budget:

• Hostels: $10–25 USD/night, Hotels: $40–100+, Meals: $5–15

• Many ruins and museums charge small entrance fees (usually $3–7)

Safety:

• Stick to well-traveled routes and ask locals about current conditions.

• Big cities have both safe and unsafe areas—common sense goes a long way.

Make It Your Own Adventure

Mexico is huge, diverse, and full of contrasts. You can hike in pine forests, snorkel in coral reefs, eat mole that tastes like magic, and nap in a hammock strung between two palm trees.

Follow the music. Follow your hunger. Follow the scent of fresh tortillas down an alleyway—and don’t be afraid to get a little lost.

And when you find that tiny taquería with no name, the beach you have all to yourself, or a sunrise that moves you to silence—come back and tell us.

Let’s build the Mexico that’s beyond the resorts. One story at a time.