Mexico is replete with stunning destinations featuring vibrant architecture and breathtaking beaches.
Choosing which location to visit first is almost impossible, so if you’re having trouble deciding, we’ve narrowed the list down to eight of the best places to visit when traveling in Mexico—and why you should travel there—to make your decision a little easier.
1. Tulum
Home to the world’s only Mayan ruins with an ocean view, Tulum allows you to experience two incredible Mexico attractions in one location. These extremely well-preserved ruins are located on a tall cliff on the coast of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. The picturesque location also offers several underground, water-filled caverns, bioreserves, and street art.
2. Cozumel
For those looking to explore what Mexico has to offer below the surface, Cozumel is the place to go. This stunning island is one of the best scuba diving destinations in the Western Hemisphere. Located just off Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is home to vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and dazzling blue water.
3. Mexico City
Mexico’s vibrant capital city is a haven for foodies, historians, and partiers alike. Founded in 1325, the city preserves much of its pre-colonial history through numerous museums and designated UNESCO World Heritage sites. The affordable city also offers incredible nightlife, a growing number of emerging international restaurants, and some of the best street food in the world.
4. Guanajuato
Guanajuato is one of the most vibrant and beautiful cities in Mexico. It’s known for its rainbow-colored homes, subterranean streets and tunnels, and Baroque architecture. Due to its rich culture and obvious beauty, the entire city is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
5. Cancún
There’s a reason Cancún has become a legendary spring break destination. In addition to being one of the most affordable destinations in Mexico, it’s also home to stunning beaches and energetic nightlife. Plus, visitors now have the chance to behold one of the new Seven Wonders of the World—Chichen Itza, a Mayan archaeological site.
6. Playa del Carmen
With a reputation as one of the hippest locations in Mexico, Playa del Carmen is known for its incredible food, lively bars, all-inclusive resorts, and soft sand beaches.
One of the most popular locations at this beautiful destination is Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue). Lined with souvenir stands, clubs, and restaurants, this pedestrian-only street is perfect for tourists to meander down. Nearby, visitors can also find cenotes, the ancient ruins of Tulum, and a natural aquarium known as Xel-Ha.
7. Puerto Vallarta
Located along Mexico’s western coast, Puerto Vallarta is home to stunning beaches and famous landmarks such as Los Arcos and the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Despite being widely recognized as one of the best places to visit in Mexico, the city has maintained its quaint, small-town atmosphere. While visiting, guests can rest easy knowing they’re in one of the safest cities in Mexico.
8. Oaxaca
To fully immerse yourself in Mexican culture, visit the city of Oaxaca. From authentic Mexican cuisine to iconic cultural sites such as the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Oaxaca offers a wealth of enriching experiences.
Thanks for reading! For more on Mexico, check out our Mexico travel guide or any of these articles below:
- Places You Just HAVE To Visit In Mexico City
- Below The Surface Of Ensenada, Mexico
- 7 of the Best Beaches in Central America
- Cinco de Mayo History & Background
- Hispanic vs Latino vs Spanish vs Latin American
