mexico experts travel

Vacaciones perfectas

Para los que desean salir de la rutina y disfrutar de los mejores destinos

CITY TOUR CON LA VECINDAD DEL CHAVO

CITY TOUR CON MUSEO DE ANTROPOLOGÍA

City tour con la vecindad del chavo y tour de compras.

BASÍLICA DE GUADALUPE

BASÍLICA DE GUADALUPE Y PIRÁMIDES DE TEOTIHUACÁN

TOUR DE XOCHIMILCO CON COYOACÁN

CASTILLO DE CHAPULTEPEC Y ZOOLÓGICO

Castillo de chapultepec y museo de antropología.

CITY TOUR CON LA VECINDAD DEL CHAVO Y MUSEO DE CERA

GARIBALDI DE NOCHE

TAXCO CUERNAVACA

TOUR CHOLULA PUEBLA

CITY TOUR + MERCADO DE LA CIUDADELA

Destinos que te quitarán el aliento.

Sólo los mejores destinos y las mejores experiencias

Restaurantes

Dejate cautivar por la mágica gastronomía

Ubicaciones

Solo los mejores destinos

Exclusivas y únicas en el mundo

Alojamientos

De primer nivel al alcance de todos

Vacaciones Perfectas

Los mejores momentos los conoceras con nuestra gran operadora turitica y lo único es difrutar de tu viaje

Ciudades místicas llenas de vida que te brindarán las mejores experiencias

LA MÁGICA CDMX

SUPER PROMO CDMX

La mágica cdmx y la vecindad del chavo, comentarios.

Para nosotros es importante tu opinión, aquí podrás encontrar lo que las personas opinan de nosotros

Playa del Carmen y sus Alrededores (Isla Mujeres + Tulum)

Claudia valdés.

James Fisher

CITY TOUR Y VUELO EN GLOBO

CDMX DE NORTE A SUR

Arturo Contreras

De nuestro blog.

Chanfle y Recontrachanfle

Catamarán en el Caribe

Empaca y viaja

Ubicada en el cerro del Tepeyac

Lugar emblemático de la CDMX

Teotihuacán

Mística zona arqueológica

Estadio Azteca

Uno de los más bellos de México

Peña de Bernal

Impresionante monumento natural

Zológico de Chapultepec

Ubicado en el bosque de Chapultepec

La ciudad de la plata

San Miguel de Allende

Hermosa ciudad colonial

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FIND YOUR PERFECT LUXURY VACATION IN MEXICO

• All Destinations Baja California & Sea of Cortez Chiapas Colonial Mexico Copper Canyon & N. Mexico Guadalajara & Tequila Guanajuato Gulf Coast Los Cabos Mexico City Oaxaca Off the Beaten Path Pacific Coast Puebla Puerto Vallarta & Punta de Mita Riviera Maya, Tulum & Cancun San Miguel de Allende Yucatan Peninsula
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Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday, enriching cultural experience, or something more adventurous and off the beaten path, we have the knowledge and expertise to create your perfect luxury vacation in Mexico.

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Awaken the Senses at One&Only Mandarina

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What Not to Miss: Meet Luxury in Los Cabos

Read on for our top picks of what to do in Los Cabos!

FOODIE TOUR THROUGH MEXICO CITY & OAXACA

On this trip specifically designed for food and drink lovers, you’ll dive into Mexico’s famed street food scene, sampling the very best food stalls and getting to the bottom of taco culture.

DESTINATIONS

RIVIERA MAYA TULUM & CANCUN

YUCATAN PENINSULA

MEXICO CITY

BAJA CALIFORNIA

SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE

COLONIAL MEXICO

PUERTO VALLARTA & PUNTA MITA

PACIFIC COAST

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

SEE ALL DESTINATIONS

TRAVEL STYLE

PRIVATE VILLAS

ACTIVE ADVENTURE

ART & NATIVE CRAFTS

FOOD & WINE

FAMILY VACATIONS

SPA & WELLNESS

WEEKEND ESCAPES

ROMANCE & HONEYMOONS

SEE ALL TRAVEL STYLES

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT US

Journey Mexico planned a wonderful anniversary trip for us. Zach and his team really know the best spots in Mexico. They were there with ideas and support throughout the trip. Fantastic and super responsive. Highly recommend.

Jessica S. G. October 2022

We worked with Journey Mexico on our recent trip to Merida. The trip was amazing and exceeded all expectations. Each day and activity was well planned. For a family of 5 (including 3 children) it’s often hard to find something for everyone. Everyone that we encountered was phenomenal, from our travel assistant Jesús, to our driver Sergio, to our tour guide Angel. They worked hard to make sure that our trip was all that we wanted it to be, and it was perfect! I highly recommend!

Ashley P. October 2022, Yucatan Peninsula

Wonderful, attentive and responsive Travel Agency based in Mexico. My wife and I booked a 10-day trip to Oaxaca, Mexico with Journey Mexico. They were very helpful and responsive during the planning stage. Followed up to make sure we were ready for the trip and assigned a travel assistant to assist during our trip. She was always just a text message away - 24/7. Very helpful. We had an issue come up during the trip and she immediately responded and did everything possible to solve the problem. Highly recommend this group - we will use them any time we are traveling in Mexico.

Steven C. October 2022, Oaxaca City & Puerto Escondido

Thanks for following up. We had a lovely time - most specifically the property was perfect for the weekend & the staff, Rodolfo & Chef Hector & team were absolute perfection. They were the perfect addition to making our stay so personal (and with the most amazing food & cocktails!). Our driver for our Tulum trip was also very kind & attentive. Thanks again for all the help and support from your side setting up the activities & managing our menu & grocery, and responding to our many questions!! The group is already looking forward to booking with Journey Mexico again.

Kristin M. Sept 2022, Alma Rosa Bachelorete

I just wanted to thank you for all you did to arrange our stay at Villa Mariola. Everything was ready for us when we arrived and the safety gates created the safe environment that we needed with 4 toddlers. The villa was comfortable and the staff was pleasant, hard working and accommodating. The chef’s Rafael and Alex are amazing, every meal that they created was like eating in an upscale New York restaurant. Thank you again, Debbie and the Tosi and Muser families

Debbie T. June 2022, Villa Mariola

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DESTINATIONS

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Check out this year's Best in Travel winners

Palm-fringed beaches, chili-spiced cuisine, steamy jungles, teeming cities, fiesta fireworks: Mexico conjures diverse, vivid dreams – and then delivers them.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

Tulum Ruins

Tulum is one of the most visited archaeological zones in Mexico and for good reason: it’s sublime. The ruins sit on seaside cliffs, high above turquoise…

Parque Nacional Isla Contoy

A white sand beach with manta rays gliding through the shimmering turquoise waters. No hotels. No nightclubs. No roads or cars of any kind. It’s hard to…

Wandering barefoot through the contemporary art museum at Azulik hotel, you feel like you’re in a giant cocoon. Nature surrounds you, inside and out:…

Jardín Botánico de Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta

For a change of scenery from the beach, head for the tropical highlands of the Sierra Madre mountains and wander the well-curated Jardín Botánico de…

Museo Maya de Cancún

Surrounded by dense tropical forest, the contemporary Museo Maya de Cancún is a welcome respite from the beach and buffet lines of the neighboring high…

Home to a small fishing community, the picturesque beach of Yelapa hugs an emerald coastline backed by jungle-shrouded mountains. The remote coastal…

Palacio Nacional

Centro Histórico

As the seat of the federal branch of the Mexican government, the Palacio Nacional (National Palace) is home to the offices of the president of Mexico and…

Torre Latinoamericana

The Torre Latinoamericana was Latin America’s tallest building when constructed in 1956, and remains the dominant focal point of Centro Histórico. It's an…

Top picks from our travel experts

The best things to do in mexico: 19 unmissable experiences.

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

Oaxaca City

Looking for cheap street food? Look no further. Dozens of good, clean comedores (food stalls) fill this large market where wait staff will thrust menus to…

Museo del Tequila y el Mezcal

This museum on Plaza Garibaldi has exhibits explaining the origins and production process of Mexico’s two most popular distilled agave drinks. The tour…

Los Danzantes

Excellent Mexican fusion food in a spectacular architect-designed patio makes Los Danzantes one of Oaxaca’s special dining spots. The hierba santa …

Museo Frida Kahlo

Coyoacán & San Ángel

Renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo was born in, and lived and died in, Casa Azul (Blue House), now a museum. Almost every visitor to Mexico City makes a…

Instituto Cultural de Cabañas

Guadalajara

Standing proudly at the eastern end of dramatic Plaza Tapatía is one of Guadalajara’s architectural landmarks, and a Unesco World Heritage site since 1997…

Templo Mayor

Before the Spaniards demolished it, the Aztec 'Great Temple' Teocalli of Tenochtitlán covered the site where the cathedral now stands, as well as the…

Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso

Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco and David Siqueiros painted murals here in the 1920s. Most of the work on the main patio is by Orozco; look for the…

Plaza Garibaldi

Every night the city’s mariachi bands belt out heartfelt ballads in this festive square. Wearing silver-studded outfits, they toot their trumpets and tune…

Jardín Etnobotánico

In former monastic grounds behind the Templo de Santo Domingo, this garden features plants from around Oaxaca state, including a staggering variety of…

Xochimilco Canals

Mexico City

Hundreds of colorful trajineras (gondolas) await passengers at the village’s 10 embarcaderos to paddle you through the waterways dotted with birdlife and…

Plaza de los Mariachis

Just south of Avenida Javier Mina and the Mercado San Juan de Dios, this is the very birthplace of mariachi music. By day it’s just a narrow walking…

Los Cocuyos

Suadero (beef) tacos abound in the capital, but this always-open stand reigns supreme. Follow your nose to the bubbling vat of meats and go for the artery…

Auto-mechanic shop by day, taco diner by night. No worries, though: the experts slicing down those excellent al pastor (spit-cooked pork) tacos aren't the…

Playa Carrizalillo

Puerto Escondido

Small is beautiful at Carrizalillo, set in a sheltered cove west of the center that's reached by a stairway of 157 steps. It’s popular for swimming and…

Museo de la Tortura

Displaying European torture instruments from the 14th to 19th centuries, including a metal-spiked interrogation chair and the menacing skull splitter,…

Mano Santa Mezcal

Often compared to having a drink at home because of the cheap, quality mezcal (or because you live in a designer-school laboratory), this small bar…

Museo de la Revolución

This pockmarked 19th-century house was the scene of the first battle of the 1910 Revolution. The renovated house retains its bullet holes and some…

Por Siempre Vegana Taquería

Vegans can join in the street-food action with soy and gluten taco versions of al pastor, loganiza (sausage) and chorizo. The late-night experience is…

Museo del Calzado El Borceguí

At this shoe museum – and the oldest shoemaker in Mexico, operating since 1865 – there are over 2000 pieces of footwear on show, many from famous feet…

Pirámide Tepanapa

The incredible Pirámide Tepanapa looks more like a hill than a pyramid, but it's still the town's big draw, and with miles of tunnels veining the inside…

Mercado Medellin

Self-caterers can stop into this colorful market for quality cuts of meat, fresh produce and nuts amongst the piñatas. It's also a popular spot for lunch:…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

From swimming in cenotes and eating street food to soaking up the history and culture of this vibrant nation, here are the best things to do in Mexico.

Transportation

From ski slopes and jungle to deserts and sublime stretches of sand, expect to use many transport options to get around the world's 13th biggest country.

Visa Requirements

If you’re planning a vacation in Mexico, these are some of the ins and outs of navigating its visas, tourist permits and more.

Money and Costs

Soak up history and art without spending a cent, and find out how to make every peso stretch further with our top tips for visiting Mexico on a budget.

Traveling with Kids

Family is at the center of daily life in Mexico, and children are warmly welcomed almost everywhere. Here are the top things to do with little ones in tow.

Best Road Trips

Fuel your wanderlust on the open road in Mexico with these epic drives.

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An Expert Guide to the Top Destinations in Mexico

A welcoming country with a stunning diversity of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes, Mexico is a place worth visiting over and over again. I’ve traveled the country from its northernmost border in Tijuana to its southern limit in Isla Mujeres, and there are still places I long to go or dream of seeing again.

From beachfront yoga retreats to avant-garde photography exhibitions, international performing-arts festivals to breathtaking wilderness, Mexico is a fascinating place with a seemingly endless variety of experiences to offer. The constant is the warmth of its people and culture—and, of course, its enviable weather—near-perfect year round in most of the country.

If you’re considering a trip to Mexico, here is a primer on the country’s most popular destinations as of 2019.

Mexico City

The oaxacan coast, puerto vallarta.

• Punta Mita, Sayulita, and the Riviera Nayarit

San Miguel de Allende

Cancún and isla mujeres, tulum and the riviera maya.

Mexico’s capital is a city like no other—a sprawling, vibrant metropolis of 20-plus-million people that embodies the splendor and chaos of modern life, as well as the richness of Mexico’s culture and history. With a multitude of excellent museums, contemporary galleries, and critically beloved restaurants opening throughout the city, Mexico City’s star is rising quickly.

Best for: Adventurers, city types, artists, writers, couples, history buffs, and food lovers.

Belly button of the world: Mexico City’s central square, the Zócalo, has been the heart of the metropolis since the founding of the Mexica city of Tenochtitlan in 1325. Destoyed by Hernán Cortés’s army, it became the capital of New Spain in 1521.

Jewel of the city: The National Anthropology Museum holds a breathtaking collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and art from cultures across Mexico. The rooms dedicated to the city of Tenochtitlan and the Valle of Mexico (where modern-day Mexico City was founded) are particularly impressive.

City to scale: Futura CDMX is an interesting new museum dedicated to urban planning and development. The heart of the museum is a scale model of the city, which fills a room on the ground floor; however, the interactive exhibits upstairs, which chronicle the city’s past and present, are equally fascinating.

What to eat: Tacos are king in the capital. Try El Huequito in the centro histórico for tacos al pastor, “Los Tacos del Guero” (officially Taqueria Hola ) in the Condesa for tacos de guisado, Por Siempre Vegana in the Roma for vegan tacos on the street, or Pujol in Polanco for a fine-dining rendition of tacos.

Moon Mexico City

by Julie Meade

• ebook (Revised)

Also available from:

• Barnes & Noble
• Books-A-Million

With its rich cultural traditions, mystical Zapotec ruins, and majestic colonial-era centro histórico, the city of Oaxaca is one of the most magical places in Mexico. It is also a top stop for food lovers: Oaxaca’s famous cuisine is among the most distinctive and delicious in Mexico.

Best for: Culture lovers, foodies, students, artists, activists, and families.

The spirit of the place: Fiery, smoky, and potent, Oaxacan mezcal is generally considered the best in Mexico.

Best bar snack: Fried grasshoppers are a salty compliment to a shot of mezcal or a cerveza.

Best late-night nosh: You can stop in till four o’clock in the morning at Tlayudas Los Libres, a famous little eatery on a street of the same name, which specializes in crunchy tlayudas (giant corn tortillas filled with beans and cheese) prepared on an open fire.

Market finds: The traditional markets in Oaxaca are a great place to eat and shop. Pick up tamales wrapped in banana leaf, fresh cheese, or a mug of chocolate caliente (made with water rather than milk, as is traditional in Oaxaca). Or try tejate , an unusual cold beverage made from chocolate, maize, the seed of the mamey, and sugar. In the market, it’s typically served in a hollowed-out gourd.

Off-the-beaten-path day trip: Visit the lovely Centro de las Artes de San Agustín , a contemporary art center located in a turn-of-the-20th-century textile factory, in the small town of San Agustín Etla.

Moon Oaxaca

by Cody Copeland

Take a rattletrap bus (or a quick flight) over the Sierra Madre to find cheap, tucked-away beach towns along the Pacific coast in Oaxaca state, including the hippie haven of Zipolite, the surfer paradise of Puerto Escondido, and quiet fishing village of Puerto Ángel.

Best for: Hippies, beach bums, and backpackers.

Sweet under-the-radar beach: San Agustinillo, between Zipolite and Mazunte, is a gorgeous little bay surrounded by small lodgings and cafes.

Turtle love: Many sea turtles come to nest on the beach at Mazunte, where the local Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga works to promote the turtles’ well-being and safety.

A touch of chic: Stylish Hotel Escondido , a design-centric beach hotel, run by chic Grupo Habita, opened in Puerto Escondido in late 2013.

The Pacific Coast’s most romantic resort town is more than high-rise hotels and all-inclusive getaways. For thoroughly Mexican charm, head to Old Vallarta, where cobbled streets are flanked by Mexican restaurants, and family-style hotels line the beach.

Best for: Families, art lovers, spring breakers, and honeymooners.

Whale of a time: Marine mammals love the tranquil waters of the Bay of Banderas, and dolphins visit Puerto Vallarta throughout the year. From November to April, numerous companies offer whale-watching tours during the humpback migration off the coast.

Beat the crowds: Water taxis shuttle beachgoers to quieter coves and bays near Vallarta, like Yelapa and Las Ánimas.

Or join ’em: The multistory nightclubs along the Malecon are chapels to tequila shots and thumping dance music, where you can bump with the crowds till dawn, or simply enjoy a beer and the breeze with a view of the sea.

Moon Puerto Vallarta: With Sayulita, the Riviera Nayarit & Costalegre

by Madeline Milne

Sayulita and the Riviera Nayarit

The Pacific beaches north of Puerto Vallarta, located along the Pacific Coast of Nayarit state, are quieter, more laid-back, and, in most cases, far cheaper than their famous neighbor to the south. Newly chic Punta Mita is the place to go for upscale luxury and get-away-from-it-all beaches. Come to Sayulita to surf, take yoga classes, and mingle with other vacationers in the low-key bars and cafes along the shore.

Best for: Surfers, yogis, beach bums, and families.

Best break: Sayulita is a popular destination for surfers, with its gently crashing waves suitable for beginners as well as more advanced surfers.

Upscale spot: The ultra-luxe St. Regis, the Four Seasons, and the W are located in Punta de Mita, the rugged point on the northern end of the Bahia de Banderas.

Low-key spot: North of Sayulita is San Francisco, unofficially known as San Pancho, a quiet little beach town with plenty of budget accommodations, a surf break, and a friendly community.

Fun fact: The state line between Jalisco (where Puerto Vallarta is located) and Nayarit also delineates the time zone; even though it’s just a short drive north up the coast, it’s is one hour earlier in Nayarit (Mountain Time) than in Puerto Vallarta (Central Time).

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Guanajuato is one of Mexico’s most spectacular cities. In the city’s unique centro histórico, crumbling 17th-century churches and pastel-hued houses climb the walls of a steep ravine, and twisting roads lead to shady open plazas. It’s a place to stroll, to sip coffee, to get lost. Originally founded in the 16th century, the city grew wealthy and opulent after silver was discovered in the craggy peaks near the city center.

Best for: Students, backpackers, families, and culture lovers.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Since 1988.

Cool urban quirk: In the centro histórico, all automobile traffic runs through underground tunnels, making the city particularly pedestrian-friendly.

Study bug: Home to the prestigious Universidad de Guaunajuato, this little town also has numerous Spanish-language schools for foreigners—and plenty of adorable coffee shops to study in.

Quixotic attraction: The two-week-long Festival Internacional Cervantino in October is Mexico’s largest and most prestigious arts festival, with performers from across the globe coming to the city’s many historic theaters and outdoor plazas.

A romantic colonial-era pueblo in the Mexican highlands, San Miguel de Allende has grown more sophisticated in the past decade, with stylish small hotels, creative fine-dining restaurants, and concept boutiques cropping up across town. Even so, this beautiful little town retains its quirky charm, its signature warmth and friendliness, and its unique beauty—San Miguel’s blend of earthy ochre- and rust-colored buildings, sandstone chapels, weathered fountains, flowering trees, and soft pink sunlight is a feast for the eyes.

Best for: Artists, art students, cultural travelers, first-time visitors to Mexico, couples, solo travelers, and retirees.

Iconic sight: The Parroquía de San Miguel Arcángel—a neo-gothic, pink-sandstone church, right in the center of town—is one of the most unusual landmarks in Mexico, and a symbol of San Miguel de Allende.

San Mike: Since the 1940s, San Miguel de Allende has been home to a sizable American and Canadian expatriate community, attracting writers, artists, and bohemian types with its beautiful light and easygoing atmosphere. It’s also a popular place to retire.

¿Que Pasa?: San Miguel’s weekly bilingual newspaper Atención San Miguel has a weekly insert called “¿Que Pasa?” that lists all the gallery openings, concerts, poetry readings, and other special events taking place around town. Don’t be shy: pick something that interests you, and drop by. San Miguel’s community is close-knit and welcoming.

Dive bar, bar none: With cheap beer and occasional art exhibitions, La Cucaracha is a San Miguel institution and one of the coolest low-key cantinas in Mexico.

Moon San Miguel de Allende

A glitzy resort town located on a spectacular stretch of coastline, Cancún is known for its all-inclusive resorts and multistory nightclubs, which seem to multiply with every passing year. Resorts aside, it is a place of unparalleled natural beauty, with a shimmering turquoise sea and powdery white sand, fringed by emerald mangrove forests. A quick ferry ride from Cancún, the teensy island of Isla Mujeres was, until recently, home to a small fishing community. Thanks to its picturesque beaches and proximity to Cancún, the island is today a popular destination for day trips from the mainland; however, it’s also an excellent place to spend your holiday, with a pleasingly laid-back atmosphere and lower prices than its famous neighbor.

Best for: Beach bums, families, adventure sport enthusiasts, and spring breakers.

Up all night at: Coco Bongo is the ultimate Cancún nightspot.

Rainy day activity: Opened in 2012, the interesting Museo Maya de Cancún includes a small ruin site in addition to its collection of Maya art and artifacts.

Most unusual gallery: Grab your snorkel gear to explore the environmentally friendly, PH-neutral sculptures of the Museo Subacuático de Arte or the Subaquatic Museum of Art, which has three underwater locations in the Mexican Caribbean.

The capital of the state of Yucatán, Mérida is a charming colonial-era city with a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere, stellar local cuisine, and a balmy tropical climate. While boutique hotels and stylish restaurants are cropping up around town, Mérida remains an attractively traditional and inexpensive destination, great for cultural travelers and those looking to learn more about local culture and Mayan history. In addition to strolling its historic streets and dining at its many excellent eateries, the city is good home base for exploring the greater region through day trips to the colonial-era town of Valladolid, the beach in Progreso, and the Maya cities of Uxmal or Chichén Itzá, among others.

Best for: Cultural travelers, families, solo travelers, and budget travelers.

Hot tip: The wonderfully flavorful and ultra-spicy chile habanero is the most popular accompaniment in traditional Yucatec food.

Chill out: Across the Yucatán peninsula, there are hundreds of deep natural sinkholes filled with freshwater, known as cenotes (say-no-tays). Taking a dip in these ultra-pure, spectacularly beautiful swimming holes are the most unique and effective way to cool off on a balmy, tropical afternoon.

Moon Yucatán Peninsula

by Liza Prado

by Gary Chandler

The gorgeous coastline south of Cancún, often referred to as the Riviera Maya, is known for its azure sea, white-sand beaches, and interesting local culture, with history that stretches back to the Mayan cultures of pre-Columbian Mexico. The area has grown rapidly in the past decade, particularly around Playa del Carmen, where you can now find excellent restaurants, nightclubs, and resorts to rival Cancún’s—though Playa, as it’s often called, retains a pleasingly laid-back, beach-centric ambience. A little farther south is Tulum, a once-sleepy community that has become a locus for chefs, bohemians, and frazzled New Yorkers in search of picturesque wellness retreats.

Best for: Beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, scuba divers and snorkelers, and families.

Underwater sights: Surrounded by the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the island of Cozumel is a world-famous scuba-diving destination.

Best place to party: The full moon parties at the Papaya Playa Project are legendary.

Best place to sit still: The small beachfront town of Akumal, between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, retains a low-key, locals-only feeling.

Wild time: The Biosphere Sian Ka’an , an emerald expanse of bays, estuaries, and mangrove forests on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, is home to an astounding diversity of wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, iguanas, crocodiles, and more.

Sense of history: Busloads of tourists come to Chichen Itzá from Cancún every day, and with good reason. The ruin of this Mayan city is among the most splendid in Mesoamerica. You’ll find fewer crowds at Cobá, a stunning Mayan city east of Tulum, where visitors can rent bikes to explore the ruins.

Cabo San Lucas, on the tip of the Baja California peninsula, is perched right between the wild Pacific and the tranquil Sea of Cortez. It’s a stunning, upscale resort town, with some of the most dramatic beaches and poshest hotels in the country. San José del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas’s quieter, more inexpensive sister city, is just a 30-minute drive down the cape, and a great pick for travelers seeking a touch of traditional Mexican charm.

Suitable for: Newlyweds, couples, families, adventure-sport enthusiasts, and fisherman.

Best cheap snack: Fresh fish tacos, stuffed with deep-friend halibut and topped with shredded cabbage, lime juice, and salsa.

Take the kids: Enjoy a glass-bottomed boat ride to the famous arch off the point in Los Cabos, then spend a few hours lounging in the sun on the Playa del Amor.

Or rent a boat to see: Blue, sperm, humpback, minke, and gray whales, among others, come to breed in the Sea of Cortes November to December.

If you miss whale-watching season: Take a kayaking tour of the island of Espiritu Santo, off the coast of La Paz, where the surrounding reefs are filled with a remarkably diversity of fish, birds, and marine mammals.

Skip the beach to visit: Flora Farm , an organic farm and restaurant, is a charming oasis in the desert.

Moon Los Cabos

by Jennifer Kramer

In addition to the destinations listed above, there are dozens more wonderful places to visit in Mexico today, like the wine-and-dining-centric Valle de Guadalupe in Baja California Norte and the magical alpine pueblo San Cristobal de las Casas in the southern state of Chiapas, in addition to other lesser-visited but nonetheless spectacular locations like Patzcuaro, Morelia, Puebla, the Copper Canyon, Real de Catorce, Mazatlan, Querétaro, Tepoztlan, Cuernavaca, or Zacatecas.

One thing is certain: The more you travel in Mexico, the more addictive it becomes.

Julie Meade

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The following Mexico itineraries span the entire length of this incredibly diverse country, from the deserts and jaw-dropping canyons of the north to the grand colonial cities of the centre and the Mayan ruins, beaches and jungles of the south. Given the vast distances involved, you may not be able to cover everything, but even picking a few highlights will give you a deeper insight into Mexico’s natural and historic wonders. If you're considering taking a trip to Mexico, check out our tailor-made trip service for help with the planning and booking from a local expert.

Itinerary tips from Ariadna: your Mexico Travel Expert

Recommended mexico itineraries, 7 day mexico itinerary, 10 day mexico itinerary, 14 day mexico itinerary, 3 week mexico itinerary, the heart of mexico itinerary, the best beaches itinerary, the best outdoor itinerary, ruta de la plata, the best time for a mexico holiday, travel ideas for mexico, created by local experts.

The Magic of the Yucatan and Mexico City

Explore the magic of the Yucatan Peninsula: from colonial towns like Merida to Archaeological sites like Uxmal and Calakmul, close to the Guatemala border, to beaches in Bacalar and Tulum, this itinerary shows you the real Yucatan before heading out to explore Mexico City.

Mexico City, Oaxaca & the Yucatan

Explore Central Mexico with its ever-busy capital Mexico City, visiting Teotihuacan and the famous museums in the city. Further on to Oaxaca City, the gateway to the Archaeological Site Monte Alban. Afterwards, continue to the white beaches of the Yucatan: Cancun and Isla Holbox await.

Fascinating Mexico: From Guanajuato to the Yucatan

Discover Mexico from fascinating San Miguel de Allende over busy Mexico City all the way to the Yucatan Peninsula. This itinerary combines public transportation with domestic flights to ensure you can make the most of discovering fascinating Mexico within two weeks.

Marvelous Mexico: From Yucatan to Mexico City

Your trip starts on the wonderful coast of Yucatan, exploring the beaches and archaeological highlights like Chichen Itza and Tulum. From there on continue the exploration to Palenque and Oaxaca before taking a flight to Mexico City - 3 days in the capital await your discovery.

Mexico's Highlands and Coast

Discover Mexico City's historic highlights and the wonders of sites like Teotihuacan, Campeche and Palenque before you jet off to the Central HIghlands. Discover archeological ruins and traditional tribal villages, then fall for the charms of Mexico's old colonial cities and glitzy Caribbean coast.

Mexico's Mayan Trail

Follow the Mayan Trail around Mexico on this archaeological adventure. Begin your journey with a refreshing taste of sea and salt air in the Yucatán Peninsula on one of Playa del Carmen's gorgeous Caribbean beaches before heading off to discover magical Mayan ruins and glorious colonial towns.

"Planning your adventure in Mexico isn't just about organizing a trip; it's about diving into a vibrant cultural experience," shares our Mexican travel expert , Ariadna. Understanding the significance of a carefully crafted itinerary in Mexico, a country teeming with rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, is crucial. Mexico is a colorful tapestry of age-old traditions, diverse landscapes, and deeply rooted cultural encounters. 

From the historic streets of Mexico City to the pristine beaches of its coastal towns, each region boasts its unique charm and attractions. A personalized itinerary guarantees a thorough introduction to the distinct elements and cultural highlights that make Mexico an incredible destination to explore.

With years of experience and intimate local knowledge, I'm here to guide you through the intricacies of creating your perfect itinerary. Whether you're eager to unravel the mysteries of ancient ruins, indulge in the lively local cuisine, or uncover the hidden natural wonders of both the mainland and coastal areas, a well-planned itinerary ensures a seamless and enriching journey tailored just for you.

Let's collaborate to craft a journey tailored to your preferences and expectations , ensuring your Mexico adventure is truly memorable.

If you are planning your travel to Mexico yourself, use these itineraries created by our travel writers as a starting point for inspiration.

See our itineraries below, or get inspired by duration: 7-days - 10 days - 14 days - 3 weeks

Enjoy the perfect blend of gastronomic delights and cultural treasures on 7-day Mexican journey .

Start in Mexico City and enjoy a traditional welcome dinner on day 1 . Day 2 will begin with a visit to the vibrant Mercado de La Merced, followed by an interactive cooking class, and then you'll travel through the historic center, including the Zocalo and the National Palace. On day 3 , you'll travel to the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan, followed by a sampling of regional cuisine.

On day 4 , you'll fly to Oaxaca , known for its culinary diversity. Here you will enjoy the flavors of the sea and local delicacies. Day 5 is set aside for a culinary master class exploring Oaxacan cuisine, after which you will embark on a cultural tour of the city. On day 6 , you'll travel to the magical city of Tulum , where you'll participate in a wine and tequila tasting followed by a sunset dinner on the beach.

On day 7 , you'll explore the cultural treasures of Tulum and end your trip with a grand feast of Yucatan delicacies. This carefully crafted itinerary combines the culinary and historical wonders of Mexico, and each day focuses on the rich cultural tapestry of this vibrant country.

Tulum, Mayan ruins, Mexico © DC_Aperture/Shutterstock

Experience an extraordinary 10-day journey through Mexico , rich in cultural experiences and natural beauty. Begin your journey in vibrant Mexico City with a warm welcome dinner on day 1 . Day 2 is a deep dive into the city's history and art at places like the Palacio de Bellas Artes. On day 3 , you'll travel to the ancient Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan with its majestic pyramids.

On day 4 , you'll travel to the colonial city of Guanajuato , exploring its colorful streets and underground tunnels. On day 5 , you'll visit the picturesque city of San Miguel de Allende , known for its baroque architecture. On day 6 , fly to Mérida, a city known for its rich Mayan and colonial heritage.

Days 7 and 8 you will spend in the Yucatan Peninsula , discovering ancient Mayan ruins such as Uxmal and Chichen Itza and relaxing in picturesque cenotes. On day 9 , you'll travel to the paradisiacal coastal city of Tulum, where pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife await. End your trip on day 10 with a farewell dinner in Tulum, reflecting on unforgettable experiences and Mexico's diverse cultural scene.

San Miguel De Allende street in Mexico © Shutterstock

Take an exciting 14-day Mexican adventure that seamlessly blends cultural immersion and natural wonders. Begin your journey in Mexico City with a traditional welcome dinner on day one . Immerse yourself in the city's artistic and historical richness on days 2 and 3 , exploring iconic landmarks.

Days 4 and 5 will take you to the ancient and mysterious Teotihuacan, and on day 6 you'll fly to Oaxaca. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Oaxaca with a hands-on cooking class on day 7 , complete with a cultural tour. On day 8 , head to the coastal paradise town of Puerto Escondido .

On days 9-11 , discover the wonders of Chiapas , from the awe-inspiring Sumidero Canyon to picturesque San Cristobal de las Casas. On day 12 , fly to the Yucatán Peninsula, where you can explore the archaeological wonders of Chichen Itza and relax in charming cenotes on days 13 and 14 . Conclude your journey with a visit to Mérida , capturing the essence of Mexico's diverse cultural traditions and breathtaking landscapes that define this extraordinary country.

A balloon vendor in front of the Catedral de San Ildefonso in Merida Mexico

Immerse yourself in an exciting 3-week Mexican trip that seamlessly blends cultural discovery with natural wonders. In the first week , dive into the heart of Mexico, starting in Mexico City and exploring its historic gems, from the Zocalo to Teotihuacan. Week 2 will take you to the enchanting southern region, where San Cristobal de las Casas and Palenque offer a rich tapestry of indigenous cultures and ancient Mayan ruins.

Transition to week 3 begins with a visit to Mérida, which offers colonial charm and access to Uxmal and Celestun. The journey continues through Valladolid , Playa del Carmen and ends in Cancun . Discover colonial cities, pristine beaches and archaeological wonders for a comprehensive exploration of Mexico's diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. This thoughtfully designed 3-week itinerary promises unforgettable and fulfilling experiences in the most diverse corners of this extraordinary country.

Cancun in Mexico © Shutterstock

This amazing Mexico tour will lead you to the heart of Mexico, as you visit Mexico City for a brilliant cooking class, Merida to see the Mayan ruins and plenty more unbelievable places and experiences.

Begin your Mexican journey in Mexico City. Upon arrival, meet your private shuttle for a hassle-free transfer to your accommodation. Begin your exploration of the city with a walking tour of the center, visiting cultural highlights such as the Palace of Arts and Diego Rivera's murals at the National Palace.

Next, the cities of Puebla and Cholula await to explore their historical and architectural wonders, including the 16th-century cathedral and ancient pyramids. Continue your odyssey in Oaxaca, exploring Monte Alban, the petrified waterfalls at Hierve el Agua, and the significant ceremonial center of Mitla.

Fly to Mérida for colonial charm and tours of cultural gems. Explore the archaeological wonders of Uxmal and Cabaj with a knowledgeable local guide. Finish your expedition with a visit to Chichen Itza and a serene night on a Caribbean beach before heading home.

Monte Alban © Shutterstock

This three-week Mexico itinerary focuses on the southern and central parts of the country, traditionally the most popular targets for independent travellers.

Upon arrival at Mexico City International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in the city center. Your tour includes a general city tour and a visit to the pyramids of Teotihuacan. Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Xochimilco floating gardens in Mexico City. Then, fly to Puerto Escondido for a relaxing beach vacation. 

From there, head to the Yucatán Peninsula, visiting Valladolid , conveniently located near major archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza, Tulum, Ec Balam and Coba. Explore the impressive ceremonial centers of Ec Balam and depart for Mérida, stopping at Chichen Itza and Cenote on the way. In Mérida, you'll have a free day or optional excursion to the Celestun Biosphere Reserve. 

Drive to Campeche , then to Xpujil in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve with an optional visit to the Becan archaeological site. Continue to Bacalar to see the stunning Lake of the Seven Colors and attend optional activities. Finally, drive to Playa del Carmen with an optional visit to Tulum, and then finish your trip in Cancun.

Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman near Valladolid © Shutterstock

Mexico is home to exceptionally varied landscapes and ecosystems, but you can get a decent taster in two to three weeks. This tour starts at the US border and works south.

Set off on an exciting adventure through Baja California , starting with the awe-inspiring gray whale migration in Guerrero Negro and San Ignacio. Explore ancient rock art in the Sierra de San Francisco, easily accessible from San Ignacio or Mulege. 

South of Mulege, Bahia Concepcion is home to unspoiled beaches ideal for kayaking or relaxing. Adventurous travelers can take a day trip from La Paz to Espiritu Santo Island, where sea lions, dolphins and whale sharks can be seen.

Ride the spectacular Copper Canyon Railroad from La Paz to Los Mochis and explore the Sierra Tarahumara hiking trails and Raramuri settlements. Head south along the Pacific Ocean to the unspoiled coast of Costalegre or head inland to climb the Nevado de Colima and Popocatepetl volcanoes. End your trip with thrilling rafting, kayaking and canyoning in Jalcomulco, near Xalapa , capturing the essence of Mexico's diverse and colorful natural landscapes.

Playa del Coco beach and the road Transpeninsular, Baja California Mexico.

Spanish Mexico was fuelled by silver, leaving a rich architectural and cultural legacy in the heart of the country. Take at least two weeks to travel this route between Mexico City and Monterrey .

Start in Taxco, the country's silver capital. Admire the colonial, whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets while shopping for jewelry. North of Mexico City is Real del Monte, Hidalgo, a charming mountainous place with a unique Cornish heritage. Next, visit Guanajuato to explore its lively cafes, bars, and intriguing sites such as restored mine shafts and 19th-century mummies.

A short bus ride will take you to San Miguel Allende, a beautifully preserved town teeming with art galleries and craft shops. Nearby is Pozos, a romantic, less developed version of San Miguel known for its extensive abandoned mine workings. In San Luis Potosí, immerse yourself in vibrant city life amid elegant Baroque buildings and museums, including one dedicated to sculptor Federico Silva.

Zacatecas , the capital of northern Bahia state, boasts a rich silver history with attractions such as the restored El Eden mine and exceptional art collections. Finish your journey in Real de Catorza, a mesmerizing semi-tropical town with colonial hotels, ruined mines, and ghostly desert landscapes, en route to Monterrey.

Taxco Guerrero Mexico a colorful town © Shutterstock

Mexico's charms are evident throughout the year , and each season offers a unique experience. The best time to visit is the dry season, which runs from December through April . During this period, the weather is sunny and warm, creating ideal conditions for exploring Mexico's rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes.

Late spring and early summer ( May - June ) and fall ( September - November ) bring pleasant weather, making historic cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara and Oaxaca attractive places to visit. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in outdoor activities amidst the spectacular scenery of the Yucatán Peninsula and Sierra Madre.

Summer ( July and August ) is ideal for beach lovers, especially in coastal harbors such as Cancun and Tulum. While temperatures can be higher inland, coastal areas offer a refreshing vacation.

Mexico's diverse seasons cater to a variety of interests, from cultural exploration to seaside vacations and adventure travel.

The Rough Guides to Mexico and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Mexico

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Mexico

• Visa and entry requirements Mexico
• Crime and personal safety tips Mexico
• Eating and drinking in Mexico
• How to get to Mexico
• Getting around Mexico: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Mexico for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Mexico

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written by Ties Lagraauw

updated 22.01.2024

Ties is a true world explorer - whether it be for work or leisure! As Content Manager at RoughGuides, and the owner of Dutch travel platform Reis-Expert.nl , Ties is constantly on the move, always looking for new destinations to discover.

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Discover Mexico Off the Beaten Path

Welcome to mexico travel secrets, your ultimate guide to exploring mexico like a local..

Discover the most comprehensive travel guides to Mexico online written by locals, for adventurous travelers like you

Discover the Hidden Gems of Mexico

Hello and welcome to Mexico Travel Secrets! My name is Melissa Douglas and I am a British Travel Writer based in Merida, Mexico. Mucho gusto! 

I have been working in travel media for eight years now and during that time I have produced written content for a number of high-profile publications across the globe including Forbes Travel Guide, Matador Network, and The Huffington Post, along with numerous online blogs and magazines. 

After five years of living in Greece, I came to Mexico on vacation, fell in love, and never left. Through the pages of this website, I want to help travelers like you explore Mexico like a local, and discover off-the-beaten-path highlights that most tourists don’t even know about. 

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Best places to visit in mexico for 2023-2024.

With year-round warm weather and diverse destinations ranging from metropolitan Mexico City to the sands of Tulum, Mexico boasts vacation spots that appeal to all sorts of visitors. To help you determine which locale is best for you, U.S. News compiled this list of the best places to visit in Mexico by factoring in cultural attractions, food options, beaches, water-based activities and nightlife, along with traveler votes and expert opinions. Vote for your favorite vacation spots below to help us determine next year's ranking. (Note: The U.S. Department of State advises against traveling to certain Mexican states due to crime; check the  website  for updates before booking your trip, and be cautious if you decide to travel.)

Zihuatanejo

Isla mujeres, isla holbox, mexico city, playa del carmen.

Located on Mexico's Pacific coast, Zihuatanejo offers travelers an authentic Mexico experience full of brilliant sunsets and laid-back vibes. In this fishing village, shopaholics can buy local handicrafts (think: ceramics and woodcarvings), and foodies can savor fresh fish tacos and ceviche along the beach. The city's Playa La Ropa serves as the main beach and stands out because of its clean, family-friendly atmosphere. Playa Larga, another excellent beach option, is set slightly outside of town, so it offers a quieter atmosphere and plenty of room to sprawl out. Just off the coast, divers and snorkelers can pick from several dive sites brimming with marine life.

Home to Mexico's most famous waterfront Mayan ruins, Tulum appeals to history buffs and water lovers alike. Positioned along a coastal stretch of the Riviera Maya, about 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen, Tulum offers some of the best hotels in Mexico , ranging from small boutique hotels to wellness retreats to all-inclusive resorts. Regardless of where you stay, you can spend time lounging on some of the world's most beautiful beaches (try traveler-approved Playa Paraíso or Playa Ruinas), exploring ancient ruins (consider booking a daytrip to nearby Chichén Itzá for a larger-scale site) and swimming in secluded cenotes, unique underwater caves located around the Yucatán Peninsula.

This island is probably best known for two things: coral reefs and cruise ships. Travelers love this destination's brilliant blue water and laid-back beaches, plus its abundance of water sports activities. Numerous outfitters and resorts offer kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling gear. While you could spend every minute in the water or on the beach with a good book, Cozumel is also a quiet place to learn about Mayan culture. Visit the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio archaeological site for a dose of pre-Hispanic history.

Ixtapa's curved coastline is packed with hotels, restaurants and nightlife, giving the Pacific coast city (located just north of Zihuatanejo) a bustling vibe. Playa El Palmar, the main beach, often proves better for sunset strolls and people-watching than swimming or snorkeling due to the strong waves. Still, warm, clear and generally gentle water and coral beds farther offshore make Ixtapa one of the best places for beginner scuba enthusiasts. Anyone interested in the area's history should also explore the Archaeological Museum of the Costa Grande, a small museum that details the various cultures and events that make the region unique. 

A great option for a weekend stay or a quick daytrip tour , Isla Mujeres is set off the coast of Cancún and offers beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and coral reefs ready for exploration. In fact, it's one of the best places to go snorkeling in the world thanks to a unique underwater museum and one of the world's largest coral reefs (home to all sorts of colorful fish). See marine life from another perspective on a glass bottom boat. When you want to catch some rays, Playa Norte is the most popular beach, framed by white sand, turquoise water and swaying palm trees.

Quiet beaches, a relaxed atmosphere and stunning crystal-clear water are some of Isla Holbox's standout attributes. This up-and-coming slice of paradise is perfect for travelers looking to truly get away from it all, thanks to its car-free, off-the-beaten-path location. Isla Holbox is situated off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula and only 26 miles long. Expect quaint boutique hotels, stretches of white sand beaches (Playa Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito are two top spots), opportunities for snorkeling and sailing, and more than 100 species of birds, including vibrantly colored flamingoes.

About 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a small beach town known for awesome surfing conditions and scenic stretches of sand. If you've never surfed before, sign up for a lesson from a local to learn. Visitors can also go whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, horseback riding or zip lining, or hop on a relaxing boat tour. After a day of fun in the sun, head into town to check out the local art galleries and grab a bite to eat at one of the tasty restaurants (Sayulita is a burgeoning foodie destination), which feature everything from cheap eats to fine dining.

Anglers recognize Manzanillo as a world-class deep-sea fishing destination for anyone searching for sailfish and marlin, but many types of travelers will enjoy a trip to this Pacific coast destination, located 170 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. The city's two bays mean there is no shortage of beaches for visitors to swim and sunbathe on: Top spots include Playa la Audiencia and Playa Salagua. Water sports like snorkeling and kayaking are also popular activities to enjoy here. If you have time, visit the small town of Barra de Navidad (about 30 miles northwest) for charming hotels, restaurants and stores along the beach. 

Dreamy white sand , nightclubs, all-inclusive resorts and inexpensive flights from the U.S. make Cancún a go-to spot for spring breakers and vacationers seeking an easy beach getaway. But this city on the Yucatán Peninsula also sits close to lush jungles and tranquil cenotes, making it an excellent option for nature lovers. Not to mention, travelers will find diverse and cheap street food served from various carts in the downtown area. Visiting in fall or winter will ensure you see this city (one of the most-visited spots in Mexico) in its most tranquil light, but December through April is when the weather is closest to perfect.

Ornate baroque and neoclassical buildings, busy plazas and colorful homes are everywhere you turn in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city. Guanajuato, situated about 50 miles west of San Miguel de Allende, is known for its subterranean streets and tunnels, which you can explore on a walking tour or at your own leisure. After admiring the city's cobblestone roadways and charming colonial architecture, grab a souvenir or bite to eat at the bustling Mercado Hidalgo. If you enjoy art, arrive in October when the popular Festival Internacional Cervantino takes place.

As the capital of Yucatán, Mérida's rich culture is visible around every turn. White stone mansions line Paseo de Montejo (the city's main street), while vibrant Sunday markets provide a taste of old-world Mexico. Those looking for Mayan ruins are also in luck; many ancient archaeological sites are in close proximity, including the famed Chichén Itzá just 75 miles east. Meanwhile, museum and art enthusiasts praise El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida, as well as the city's art galleries and local murals. When it comes to lodging, travelers will have their pick of quaint boutique hotels.

The most populous city in Mexico is steeped in history and culture. Mexico City boasts delectable cuisine, ancient Aztec sites and world-class hotels – all at fairly low costs – but if you feel like splurging, you'll find an array of high-end shops along the tree-lined Avenida Presidente Masaryk in the Polanco neighborhood. Must-see attractions in Mexico City include the Zócalo, the Palace of Fine Arts, Chapultepec Castle and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. And if you want to eat your way through the city, consider signing up for a food tour .

For a vacation packed with authentic character, head to Puebla. This city, which sits about 80 miles southeast of Mexico City, is filled with colonial architecture and numerous churches, but its main draws are its stunning Talavera pottery, its historical forts and museums, and its sweet and spicy cuisine. Visitors must try mole poblano (made with numerous ingredients, including chiles, meat, chocolate, cinnamon and garlic) and chiles en nogada (chiles stuffed with beef and served with a walnut sauce and fruit like peaches, apples and pomegranate seeds). When the sun sets, venture to Callejón de los Sapos to listen to live music.

Playa del Carmen boasts an exciting food scene, with eateries dishing out everything from delectable tacos and tostadas to sushi and expertly cooked seafood, plus an even hipper bar culture. What's more, this destination in the Riviera Maya beckons to vacationers with its soft white sand blanketing its beaches and its stunning shoreline views. Visitors can also bike to a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip or hit the links at one of the numerous surrounding golf courses. All-inclusive resorts , vacation rentals and boutique properties abound in Playa del Carmen, too, giving travelers plenty of options to find the best fit for their preferences and budgets.

This secluded vacation spot is known for its luxurious lodging options (from vacation rentals to high-end hotels like the St. Regis and the Four Seasons), golf courses and charming beaches, such as El Anclote and Playa de Punta Mita. The small resort village of Punta Mita sits on a peninsula in Banderas Bay and most appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing atmosphere. Those interested in scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and surfing will be able to enjoy those activities here as well. If you're visiting between December and March, book a whale watching tour for a chance to see humpback or orca whales.

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Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Mexico 2024/2025

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Mexico. Below you will find 16 of the best tour operators and travel agencies in Mexico offering in total 212 tours and holidays through-out Mexico. Combined they have received 269 customer reviews and an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The top tour activities offered in Mexico are: Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history, Adventure and sport & Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation.

• Tours in Mexico
• Mexico Travel Guide
• Things to Do in Mexico
• Best Time To Visit Mexico

16 Tour Operators in Mexico with 269 Reviews

World Expeditions

• Address 1B Osiers Road, Wandsworth, London, England
• Response Rate 81%
• Response Time 2 hours

• Best-in-Class Top 5% of companies
• Excellent Service Top 10% of companies
• Superior Service Top 15% of companies

• Address 6 Fife Road, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey,, London , England
• Response Rate 84%
• Response Time 1 hour

Intrepid Travel

• Address 380 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Australia
• Response Rate 90%

Exodus Travels

• Address Grange Mills, Weir Road, London, England
• Response Rate 85%
• Response Time 3 hours

Marvelus Travel

• Address Avenida Santander Zona 2 , Panajachel, Guatemala

Intro Travel

• Address Level 2, 332 Kent Street, Sydney, Australia
• Response Rate 89%

G Adventures

• Address G Adventures Ltd, 60 Bastwick Street, London, England

Destination Services

• Address Edificio TUI, SM2, Calle Rita Levi, Parc Bit, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
• Response Rate 98%

• Address Nelson House, 55-59 Victoria Rd, Farnborough, England
• Response Rate 94%

• Address 38-51 Bedford Way, London, England
• Response Rate 88%

Indus Travels

• Address 233, 11951 Hammersmith Way, Richmond, Canada
• Response Rate 97%

• Address Francisco Sosa 29, Colonia Del Carmen, Coyoacán, Mexico City, Mexico
• Response Rate 100%

Vibe Adventures

• Address Ayuntamiento 115, Ciudad de México, Mexico

Europamundo

• Address c/ Garcia de Paredes Nº 55 1ª Planta, Madrid, Spain

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20 Useful Mexico Travel Tips To Know Before Your Trip

This list of Mexico travel tips is mostly for first-time visitors traveling to Mexico, but it can help anyone achieve a safe and worry-free journey.

Mexico is huge. Even though my itinerary allowed me to explore just a tiny percentage of it, I had a blast and feel I had a balanced mix of cities, culture, beaches, and history.

I did quite an extensive research to plan my trip but it was during the trip itself that I learned a lot. This list compiles exactly that. All the things I wish I had known before visiting Mexico .

🇲🇽 Things to know before traveling to Mexico

• Don’t stress out because of safety concerns .
• Go cenote hopping .
• Pay in pesos, not dollars .
• Explore beyond the touristy resorts .
• Don’t underestimate the size of the country .
• It’s not always warm and sunny .
• Indulge on the unique Mexican food .
• Leave your drone at home .
• Know the Mexican bathrooms.
• Plan for the best beach weather .
• Get around by ADO bus .
• Give a chance to Mexico City .
• Go for the street food .
• Be careful when renting a car .
• Explore the ancient ruins .
• Try to avoid tours .
• Learn basic Spanish .
• Connect with locals .
• Avoid the tap water .
• Stay connected with a Telcel SIM card .

1 Don’t stress out because of safety concerns

Mexico has an awful reputation on media, from drug cartel violence to missing women in the metro. Not to say these things don’t exist.

However, most of these things happen in areas that you’re unlikely to visit. This is true even inside the cities. In Mexico City , the central areas are safe and most of the crime is concentrated in the suburbs. If you follow these safety tips in CDMX , you’ll be fine.

Mexico is in general very safe, with very welcoming people.

Remember roughly 40 MILLIONS of people visit Mexico every year and violence against tourists is rare. The main crime travelers may encounter is petty theft. Be aware of your belongings at all times, particularly in crowded places.

2 Go cenote hopping

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BRUN🌎 (@bruno_mb) on Mar 3, 2019 at 1:07pm PST

I had never heard of cenotes before coming to Mexico and I learned that is so easy to become obsessed with them. Cenotes are cave-like sinkholes or natural swimming holes that can be found all across the Yucatán peninsula.

Some look like underground caves. Others are more like an underground swimming pool. Others are just like a giant open-air pit. They’re very diverse so try to visit at least two or three of them.

The Mayas believed these were sacred portals to the underworld; while this may not be necessarily true, they feel indeed magical.

There are over 6,000 different cenotes in Yucatán , here are some of the most beautiful.

• Cenote Dos Ojos in Tulum
• Cenote Samulá in Valladolid
• Cenote Zaci in Valladolid
• Cenote Ik-Kil in Chichen Itza
• Cenote Azuk in Tulum
• Cenote Suytun in Valladolid
• Cenote Xkeken in Valladolid
• Gran Cenote in Tulum

3 Pay in pesos, not dollars

In some places, especially the touristy hotspots like Playa Del Carmen , it’s technically possible to pay in U.S. Dollars (USD).

However, you’ll get a much better deal paying in pesos because places can choose the exchange rate. When you get to Mexico, take money out of an ATM (never use exchange bureaus!) and make sure you always have pesos with you throughout your trip.

If possible, use Revolut to pay even less fees.

4 Explore beyond the touristy resorts

This is one of the key travel tips in Mexico, guys.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with planning some days at the beach in Riviera Maya – they are well-deserved after touring the country! – but settling for the typical resort all-inclusive vacation in Mexico is almost offensive to the rest of the country.

Personally, the idea of booking a trip to stay at a megaresort in Cancún with some seldom guided tours to explore where locals live is my idea of Mexican vacation hell. All you’ll be seeing is other tourists.

Mexico is a HUGE country with plenty of other destinations you can explore . I skipped Cancún and Playa del Carmen all together for my itinerary and added more authentic colonial towns like Valladolid or Mérida to understand better its amazing sub-cultures.

5 Don’t underestimate the size of the country

In case you haven’t noticed, Mexico is an absolute beast of the country. Spreading out for an area of almost 2 million km² (!) is has more than 130 million people. More than 20 million of them in Mexico City’s metropolitan area, which is also the largest city in the Western Hemisphere.

Getting from point A to point B always takes longer than you expect. Plan accordingly and don’t hop city to city in the least amount of time possible. A key Mexico travel tip (that is universal): slow travel is your friend.

6 It’s not always warm and sunny

Because the country is so big, weather changes considerably from region to region.

In general, the best time to visit Mexico is between December and April. But while may experience some chilly nights in Mexico City as it corresponds to the peak winter season in the Northern Hemisphere. Bring your jacket!

That said, in December and January while is perfect beach weather in Riviera Maya , in places like Tulum or Playa del Carmen . The hurricane season has passed and despite being the “coolest months”, temperatures can still reach averages of 28 degrees Celsius in some places.

7 Indulge on the unique Mexican food

Forget any diets when coming to Mexico because let’s face it, Mexican food is FREAKING DELICIOUS. Not always the healthiest, not always respecting the 5-a-day rule, but you’ve got time to recover after your trip.

And there’s much more than just tacos , nachos , and guacamole (which is actually not that common!). Each region in Mexico boasts a different sub-culture and that is represented through food as well. In Yucatán for instance, you’ll find a whole new version of Mexican food with origin in the Mayas and that includes chaya , sopa de lima and the popular conchinita pibil .

I suggest indulging as much as you can in the local food and if possible, take a cooking class to properly experience this unique cuisine.

Dishes you need to try in Mexico 🌮

• 🌮 Cochinita pibil: a Yucatan dish consisting of marinated meat wrapped in spices and banana leaves, usually suckling pig.
• 🌮 Chilaquiles : the ultimate breakfast food made with fried tortilla strips simmered in a green or red salsa and usually topped with eggs, cheese, beans, meat or all of the above.
• 🌮 Enchiladas : tortillas filled wth meat, cheese, beans, vegetable or seafood and covered in a chili sauce.
• 🌮 Gorditas : similar to Venezeluan arepas , this is a type of pastry made with masa , stuffed with cheese, meat, or other fillings and served usually fried. It’s not a coincidence they loosely translate as “little fatty ones” though…
• 🌮 Sopa de lima : a lime-infused chicken soup with pieces of fried tortillas .
• 🌮 Tacos al pastor : Mexico City’s favorite tacos, these are meat tacos sliced off a spit and served with coriander and pineapple.
• 🌮 Quesadillas : tortilla filled primarily with cheese, meats, vegetables and/or beans and then cooked on a griddle.

8 Leave your drone at home

If you have a drone and are anything like me, you dream of taking some aerial shots of the eye-catchy Tulum beaches, cenotes or ancient ruins in the forest.

First of all, flying over archaeological sites like Uxmal or Chichen Itza is strictly forbidden.

And it gets worse. A recent law explicitly says that 1) you have to be a Mexican citizen to fly a drone in Mexico 2) it has to be registered. Legally, they’re able to confiscate your drone when you enter or leave the country.

Whether they enforce this or not, is questionable, but I didn’t want to risk it.

9 Know the Mexican bathrooms

OK, so let’s talk bathrooms.

The first thing to know is that the door with an “M” IS FOR WOMEN. M is for mujeres ! Even after living in Barcelona for years, I may or may not entered the women bathroom by mistake more than once.

After you have done your business, you’ll likely find a basket next to the toilet. This means the place is not connected to the public sewage so flushing your toilet paper can cause clogs. Deposit your used toilet paper in the basket.

10 Plan for the best beach weather

If you’re planning to spend some time at the pristine Mexican beaches, there are two main things to consider.

Firstly, watch out for the hurricane season . Between June and November, hurricanes and tropical storms can impact the weather on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, the Gulf Coast, and even the Pacific coast.

If you decide on taking a vacation during hurricane season – great travel deals to be made, as crowds are fewer – consider purchasing a travel insurance policy . Be fast. Usually, as soon as a storm is named, providers consider it a “foreseeable event” and will not cover in some (or all the) situations.

The other thing to consider are seaweed (aka sargassum or sargasso ). No one wants to arrive at a soft white sand beach and find out it’s entirely covered in a brown-ish stinky seaweed. I learned about this the hard way!

Sargassum season usually runs from April to August, but in recent years there have been reports of “waves” of seaweed arriving off-season. I visited in March and many beaches in Tulum were covered in seaweed! The scale of the sargasso is so big that most hotels and even the government don’t have the means to clean the beaches on a daily basis.

The Sargasso Monitoring Network of Cancún publishes daily reports of the situation on the beaches of the Caribbean coast, based on satellite and drone images, and even photographs of citizens.

If you want to keep your beach time sargasso-free, stay in a place which has staff constantly monitoring and managing the situation in front of the hotel. This is usually the case with high-end hotels and resorts .

11 Get around by ADO bus

Traveling independently through Mexico is easier than you think. While internal flights are affordable, they’re not sustainable and you can use the trip to see a bit more of the countryside.

ADO Buses are surprisingly modern and comfortable and there’s plenty of routes every day connecting all major and minor towns throughout the country.

Oh, they’re ridiculously cheap too. My trip from Valladolid to Tulum costed 110 pesos (less than $6 USD at the time). You can buy tickets online (only some foreign credit cards accepted) or at the nearest terminal de autobuses (bus terminal).

12 Give a chance to Mexico City.

Mexico City is the elephant in the room when it comes to Mexico. People are so formatted to fly directly to Cancún or Acapulco that they overlook this massive, vibrant, culturally interesting metropolis that offers a ton of things to do and see.

Adding it to your trip to Mexico will make it much more diverse and truly feel like a complete overview of this beautiful country. I suggest at least three full days .

13 Go for the street food

Not trying the street food is missing out on a huge cultural part of any country.

In that department, Mexico is a respectable competitor to Vietnam , where I tasted the best street food ever.

Pay attention to how they wash the utensils, if the meat is well cooked and if the food has been sitting in the sun for too long. If you’re unsure, start with small snacks before moving to full meals.

The best tip though is to head for the stalls where locals queue up the most. Or just ask a local for recommendations!

14 Be careful when renting a car

Frankly, I rarely trust car rental companies, because they’re full of scams and tricks to make you pay more.

In Mexico, it’s common to see car rental companies advertising rentals as cheap as $1 a day. I myself believed them for a brief moment when looking to rent a car in Mérida . But after emailing the company in advance – that you should definitely do too! – I was then quoted the final price: roughly $200!

When reading it up online, it’s common for agents to force you to take crazy expensive insurance when you pick up the car. Mexico requires drivers to prove they have insurance if there is a serious accident.

Common sense applies here. If a deal is too good to be true, it’s probably because it’s not.

15 Explore the ancient ruins

If there’s a country that will please any history buffs, it’s Mexico. Before the conquistadores arrive at the country in the 16th century – a devastating yet fascinating tale by itself – the country was Mayan and Aztec territory.

This incredible rich history still shows through its culture and food, which is particularly evident in the Yucatán region. Throughout the country, there are various imponent archaeological sites and ruins worth to visit. The most popular by far is Chichen Itza , but many say it’s overrated, overpriced, and overcrowded compared to other options.

• Chichen Itza close to Valladolid
• Cholula Pyramid close to Puebla
• Coba close to Tulum
• Ek Balam close to Valladolid
• Templo Mayor in Mexico City
• Teotihuacán close to Mexico City
• Tulum Ruins in Tulum
• Uxmal close to Mérida

16 Try to avoid tours

If you book a trip to Cancun or Playa del Carmen and hope to see the rest of the country booking guided tours, you’re set to see nothing but other tourists the entire time. Where is the fun in that?

Quite frankly, you’re much better off going off the beaten path. Explore the local, beautiful, authentic Mexico. Give yourself a chance to immerse in the local culture, with no deadlines or time restrictions. Your travel experience will greatly increase.

Personally, I don’t book tours unless it’s mandatory or it’s a cooking class. In Mexico, I used a 100% independent itinerary .

17 Learn basic Spanish

Mexico are used to have English-speaking tourists, but especially in smaller towns, it’s always good to master some Spanish words and expressions. It will both help connect with locals – only a small percentage of them speak fluent English – but you’re guaranteed to get a smile in return.

Basic Spanish words and expressions for travelers 🗣

• 🗣 Hello – Hola
• 🗣 Thank you – Gracias/Muchas gracias
• 🗣 Excuse me/Sorry – Perdón
• 🗣 What’s your name? – Como se llama usted?
• 🗣 My name is… – Mi nombre es…

18 Connect with locals.

Honestly, the landscapes are beautiful, the history is fascinating, the food is delicious, but the Mexican people are a whole another level.

No matter what magnates with an orange face and crappy hair tell you, Mexicans are lively, friendly happy, with a constant smile on their faces that is contagious. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, make some joyful comments, and join the party whenever there’s one. They’ll win you over. A bit of Spanish can be helpful though.

19 Avoid the tap water

It’s generally a good idea to avoid tap water in Mexico. This obviously includes ice cubes in drinks and juices. If anything, in restaurants ask for agua del filtro .

Bring a bottle of water and reuse it when you find a agua filtrada (filtered water) or just bring a water purifier that filters the waer form the tap. Win for you, win for the environment.

20 Stay connected with a Telcel SIM card

More and more, I feel getting access to Internet abroad is important. Not to check your like count on Instagram or Facetime your friends, but to know where you are and research what’s around you.

While WiFi is available in malls, restaurants, and hotels, it’s a good idea to get a SIM card.

If you have a phone with eSIM capability – e.g. the new iPhones – you can purchase a virtual SIM card from Airalo (use BRUN03584 code for $3 credit!) and get immediately connected.

Otherwise, just head to a local OXXO store and ask for a physical TelCel SIM card. You can also get them in official Telcel stores. To save some money, you can use only one card and share the internet through a mobile WiFi router.

HUAWEI E5577s-321 Mobile WiFi Router

Put any SIM card in the world inside and it will share the data across all your devices via WiFi (up to 10!). The battery lasts 12 hours of working. Can’t recommend it enough!

Do you have more Mexico travel tips? What other things we should know? Let me know about your experience.

You might also like these articles 💬

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• World's Best

Travel + Leisure Readers' 25 Favorite Resorts in Mexico of 2023

Readers chose accommodations in Mexico that offer spectacular scenery, delicious food, and a wealth of excursion options in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2023.

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

Travelers are spoiled for choice when it comes to the best resorts in Mexico, regardless of their vacation personality or which coast happens to be calling. Craving a big resort with multiple pools and enough high-energy activities to satisfy the whole family? Or a romantic all-inclusive adults-only escape with cocktails and food aplenty? How about an intimate jungle-meets-beach hideaway with five destination-worthy dining options that include a restaurant from one of the country’s best chefs? You’ll find all that and more on this year’s list of T+L reader favorites.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Rooms/facilities

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

Courtesy of Hotel Xcaret

Nine of the hotels on this year’s list are clustered in Baja California Sur. The 2022 WBA winner, Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, slipped one spot to No. 2, but readers still had plenty of praise for the 113-room oasis. Multiple people commented on the superlative cliffside restaurant El Farallon, with one person calling it “one of the most romantic spots anywhere.” The dining was equally memorable for another reader, who stayed at The Cape, a Thompson Hotel (No. 8), who said that “the craft drinks and Peruvian ceviche became a daily tradition.”

Hotels in the Yucatán Peninsula — specifically, in Cancún and the Riviera Maya along the Caribbean coast — also had a strong showing, grabbing another eight spots on this year’s list. One of the newest hotels to catch readers’ attention is No. 17 Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya. Opened in January 2022, the vibrant 349-room resort offers a sophisticated option in a destination whose spectacular natural scenery and adventure pursuits have, in recent years, been overshadowed by high-octane beach clubs and overtourism. 

All-inclusive hotels have become increasingly popular and increasingly elevated in their offerings. This is perhaps one reason why five of them appear on this year’s list of the best resorts in Mexico, as voted by T+L readers, with several located in Playa del Carmen . The family-friendly Hotel Xcaret Mexico (No. 11) is a 900-suite property that provides access to eight theme and water parks as part of every booking. “Xcaret makes it so easy to relax,” wrote one voter. “You don't have to think too much! The time we spend here is perfect, whether we’re there as a couple or taking our teenagers.” Other perks include a round-trip ferry to Isla Mujeres, a popular site for snorkeling and scuba diving. On the opposite coast, readers loved both Grand Velas Los Cabos (No. 12) and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit (No. 10). Of the latter, one T+L reader said, “The cuisine and beverage selections are made to please the most discriminating palate. This is a very special place to stay if you would like to be treated like gold in the most beautiful surroundings.”

1. Hotel Xcaret Arte : Playa del Carmen, Mexico

This all-inclusive, 900-suite property debuted in July 2021 just south of resort hub Playa del Carmen. While the hotel is a popular destination for honeymooners and touts itself as being adults only, it actually allows guests as young as 16, making it a solid choice for families with older high schoolers and college students. Like its sibling property (No. 11 Hotel Xcaret Mexico), Xcaret Arte offers unlimited access to a group of a combination of water and theme parks, where guests can participate in zip-lining, snorkeling, white-water rafting, and other activities. As the name implies, art is also a big focus here. Eight on-site workshops let travelers dabble in specialties like textiles and painting. “Amazing,” summarized one reader. 

Reader Score: 98.67

Book Now: Hotels.com | Expedia | Tripadvisor

2. Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal : Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria

Whether tucked into the cliffs or steps from the sand, the rooms and suites at this refined Baja resort put guests in prime position to watch technicolor sunsets and, during migration season, California gray whales.  

Reader Score: 97.99

3. Las Ventanas al Paraíso, a Rosewood Resort : San José del Cabo, Mexico

Courtesy of Las Ventanas al Paraíso, a Rosewood Resort

“The service truly sets it apart from all other five-star resorts in the area,” shared one reader who stayed at this 84 suite and villa property, which provides complimentary butler service for every guest.

Reader Score: 97.65

4. Grand Velas Riviera Maya : Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Courtesy of Grand Velas Resorts

Eight restaurants and five bars make for an impressive selection of dining options at this 539-suite all-inclusive, but one T+L reader was even more excited by the spa, which they proclaimed the “best in the world.”

Reader Score: 97.17

5. Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection : Riviera Maya, Mexico

Courtesy of Auberge Resorts Collection

Local culture is always front-and-center at this 75-room property, where activities include cooking classes, Mayan calendar readings, jewelry workshops, and tastings that highlight Mexican wines and lesser-known agave spirits.

Reader Score: 97.13

6. Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve : San José del Cabo, Mexico

Courtesy of Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

The culinary offerings and outstanding service earned raves from T+L readers, as did the innovative experiences for young travelers. “My son was obsessed with the kids’ club,” wrote one mom. “The Jacques Cousteau kids’ program was a highlight for him.”

Reader Score: 97.04

7. One&Only Palmilla : San José del Cabo, Mexico

Courtesy of One&Only

“This place truly maintains the original Mexico traditions, with service beyond compare,” shared one voter. Another reader echoed these sentiments: “Everyone who works at the resort goes out of their way to make you feel special, and they have a high attention to detail. It's truly a magical place!” 

Reader Score: 96.9

8. The Cape, A Thompson Hotel : Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Courtesy of Thompson Hotels

Multiple voters singled out the location as the difference-maker at this resort. “All rooms have a stunning view of the Arch and sparkling sea,” one person shared. “It’s within close distance of numerous restaurants and shops, but still feels secluded away from the masses.”

Reader Score: 96.62

9. One&Only Mandarina : Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

The combination of beach and jungle made this resort stand out to a number of readers, one of whom recommends booking the Villa Cumaru: “It offers incredible space, an extremely large and private pool, as well as a large cliff top jacuzzi with a firepit, which makes sunset drinks in the room incredible.”

Reader Score: 96.61

10. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit : Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Readers appreciated the attentive, intuitive service offered by the staff at this all-inclusive resort. “They cater to your desires and know what to offer even before you voice it,” wrote one fan.

Reader Score: 96.50

11. Hotel Xcaret Mexico : Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Among the lively restaurants at this all-inclusive are the Mercado de la Merced, which encompasses 10 themed stations, and Teatro del Río, where dinners are accompanied by live music, dance, and theatrical performances.

Reader Score: 95.69

12. Grand Velas Los Cabos : Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Between three oceanview infinity pools, dedicated teens’ and kids’ clubs, and a baby concierge, families are well taken care of at this all-inclusive resort, where paint-and-wine classes, aqua aerobics, and tequila tastings are among the adult-centric activities.

Reader Score: 95.54

13. Rosewood Mayakoba : Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Courtesy of Rosewood

One of the most memorable experiences at this serene luxury resort is dinner at La Ceiba Garden and Kitchen, where guests share a family-style meal with each other and the property’s staff. Travelers can’t go wrong with one of the beach or lagoon suites, but those seeking a deeper reset might consider one of the newer wellness suites, which come with a well-being butler and incorporate touchpoints like a reflexology fountain.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 95.29

14. Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection : Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

“From the moment you step foot on the property you feel right at home,” enthused one recent guest. “Everyone always greets you with a warm smile, and you can tell that everyone is proud to be a part of the team. The staff will go above and beyond to make your time at Chileno something that you will cherish.” 

Reader Score: 95.16

15. Montage Los Cabos : Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Courtesy of Montage Hotels

Not all resorts in Cabo can boast a swimmable beach, which is one of the best features of this property, according to a T+L reader who had a memorable stay for multiple reasons: “We did the tasting menu at Mezcal for my milestone birthday, and it was delicious. And the service is above and beyond, from the butlers to the director of housekeeping, who personally took us to the hospital when my mother needed stitches.”

Reader Score: 95.04

16. Viceroy Riviera Maya: Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Courtesy of Viceroy Riviera Maya

This past winner wowed readers again this year on the strength of its service and the level of privacy afforded by its 41 villas. Also a hit: the “fresh and authentic menus,” as one reader described. 

Reader Score: 94.96

17. Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya : Tulum, Mexico

Victor Elias Photography

Part of the luxury brand’s expansion into the resort space, this hotel brings a refined sensibility to both its decor (the hand-carved doors make for a wow-worthy entrance) and excursions like visits to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its wealth of wildlife and plant species.

Reader Score: 94.80

Book Now: Hilton | Hotels.com | Expedia

18. Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection : Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Superlative service is a hallmark across the Auberge portfolio, according to T+L readers, and this resort — set on the bluffs of Punta Ballena — is no exception. “The absolute best service and people of any hotel I have ever stayed at,” wrote one person. Another WBA voter was so enamored with the property that they ended up purchasing a villa there after two recent stays.

Reader Score: 94.49

19. Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita : Punta Mita, Mexico

Courtesy of Four Seasons

T+L readers appreciate that there’s something for everyone at this 52-acre resort, where the staff excels in creating a welcoming atmosphere. “I've never experienced warmer or more complete service,” wrote one voter. “And there's nothing wrong with a day that goes from a beach cabana, to an infinity pool, to a lazy river.”

Reader Score: 93.90

20. Mahekal Beach Resort : Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Courtesy of Mahekal Beach Resort 

While this eco-chic resort puts travelers within easy walking distance of Playa del Carmen’s shops and restaurants, there’s ample to satiate guests who prefer to stay onsite. “Great food, really nice pool and common areas, and stunning grounds,” wrote a reader.

Reader Score: 93.88

21. Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués : Acapulco, Mexico

Courtesy of Banyan Tree

Forty-five minimalist villas are perched on a cliff that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. In addition to the lush environs, readers applauded the staff’s attentiveness. “They personalized my stay, anticipating to my needs,” shared one appreciative reader.

Reader Score: 93.68

22. Conrad Punta de Mita : Punta de Mita, Mexico

Victor Elias Photography.

As one reader points out, this swanky resort isn’t in the thick of the surf town’s party areas, but that can be a plus for travelers in search of a relaxing escape. “Don't expect to hit up nightlife from this hotel,” wrote the voter. “But it's a beautiful property, and the food in particular is excellent.”

Reader Score: 93.33

23. The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort : Punta Mita, Mexico

Courtesy of The St. Regis

Set amid 22 well-landscaped acres, this 120-room haven counts two Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses among its amenities. Guests who prefer pampering to putting can head to the spa for a massage or facial.

Reader Score: 93.18

Book Now: Marriot | Hotels.com | Expedia

24. Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta : Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico

Courtesy of Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta

Entertainment abounds at this lively resort, whether a guest wants to keep busy with activities, live shows, or something else. (One distinguishing amenity: La Plaza, a three-story shopping complex with designer boutiques and a gourmet market.) The variety is enough to earn repeat visits from at least one voter: “We stay in the Grande Luxxe Residence and return almost yearly. We take friends and family and are never disappointed!"

Reader Score: 93.00

25. JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa : Cancún, Mexico

Courtesy of JW Marriott

Inviting tones of blue and cream throughout this upscale 445-room property echo its Caribbean setting. Its dining outlets, though, are decidedly global, with options ranging from classic Italian to Thai. Its lobby bar offers more than 150 different types of margaritas. 

Reader Score: 92.97

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Vote for your favorite bed and breakfast!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

If you're looking to experience the charm and hospitality of a destination, staying at a bed and breakfast can be a great idea. They offer a more intimate setting, where guests can get to know the hosts as well as other travelers. Not to mention, you'll enjoy a delicious home-cooked breakfast every morning, often featuring local specialties and fresh ingredients. If you're looking for a cozy retreat, a romantic getaway, or a cultural immersion, these 20 bed and breakfasts — nominated as the best in the U.S. by a panel of travel experts — do not disappoint.  Which bed and breakfast is your favorite? Help crown the winner by voting  once per day until voting ends on Monday, August 5 at noon ET. The 10 winners will be announced on Wednesday, August 14 at noon ET. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules .   

If you're looking to experience the charm and hospitality of a destination, staying at a bed and breakfast can be a great idea. They offer a more intimate setting, where guests can get to know the hosts as well as other...   Read More

Best Bed and Breakfast Nominees

Photo courtesy of Giselleflissak / E+

Balcony Guest House

New Orleans, Louisiana

Located on Royal Street, around seven blocks from New Orleans' French Quarter, the Balcony Guest House features six guest rooms all with private bathrooms. Two of the rooms include access to the property's namesake wraparound balcony overlooking the Marigny neighborhood. 

Photo courtesy of Prostock-Studio // Getty Images

Bellwether House

Savannah, Georgia

Get a feel for Savannah's Historic District at this charming bed and breakfast that feels more like a boutique hotel once you're inside. Free parking is included with all reservations, as is a full breakfast and afternoon tea. There's even a champagne sabering and toast every evening to kick off the opening of the full-service bar.

Photo courtesy of Jumping Rocks

Brampton Bed and Breakfast Inn

Chestertown, Maryland

Experience Maryland beyond Baltimore and the beaches, with a stay at Brampton Bed and Breakfast Inn. It's located on 35 acres surrounded by forests, with easy access to the Chestertown Historic District. You can stay in the 1860 Manor House or even have your own private cottage. Enjoy a locally-sourced breakfast before exploring the property's meadows and landscaped gardens.

Photo courtesy of Matt McGraw Photography

C.W. Worth House Bed & Breakfast

Wilmington, North Carolina

This Queen Anne-style bed-and-breakfast has just seven rooms, giving it a cozy, intimate feel. And guests of C.W. Worth House enjoy a farm-to-table breakfast each morning. Plus, the property is close enough to downtown and the Wilmington Riverwalk that you can walk to many restaurants and attractions. 

Cedar Gables Inn

Napa, California

Built in 1892, the Cedar Gables Inn includes 11 guest rooms perfect for any occasion ranging from a romantic getaway to a family vacation. Guests can start their day with the included homemade breakfast, and then easily explore downtown Napa on foot, where they can enjoy all that the scenic town has to offer. 

Photo courtesy of Gene Iverster

Elk Cove Inn & Spa

Elk, California

Overlooking the Mendocino coast, the Elk Cove Inn & Spa welcomes visitors to choose from a range of guest accommodations, from carriage house rooms to cliffside oceanfront cottages. Each morning, guests can start their day with a decadent breakfast crafted by chef Victor Passalacqua, who also oversees the dinner service at the inn's on-site restaurant, Sibo. 

Photo courtesy of Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast

Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast

West Bend, Wisconsin

Looking at a map, one can be forgiven for asking, "How do you get there?" The aptly named Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast is nestled in the woods, with a driveway that extends for a quarter-mile. The charming property includes a 1.3-mile wooded trail and a spa to help you relax even more than the bucolic setting demands. Luxury rooms with heated bathroom floors — and some with fireplaces — amp up the coziness.

Photo courtesy of Cynthia Samsel

The Historic Browning

Lee's Summit, Misssouri

Just two blocks from downtown Lee's Summit, The Historic Browning includes four bedrooms and four bathrooms, plus 3,000 square feet of living space open to guests. During their stay, guests enjoy a hot gourmet breakfast each morning, a welcome beverage at check-in, fresh-baked cookies, fresh fruit, and cold beverages. 

Photo courtesy of Waterfall Associates

The Historic Magnolia House

Greensboro, North Carolina

Music legends including Tina Turner, James Brown, and Ray Charles have stayed at The Historic Magnolia House, and the property's four guest rooms feature decor inspired by past guests. The property also happens to be one of a handful of Green Book sites still operating in North Carolina.

Photo courtesy of Jumping Rocks Photography

Holualoa Inn

Holualoa, Hawaii

The Holualoa Inn is located on a 30-acre estate in the Kona Coffee Belt. At 1,400 feet in elevation, visitors delight in spectacular ocean views and refreshing sea breezes. Well-appointed accommodations include the use of cotton robes and beach towels, and guests enjoy a daily gourmet breakfast.

Photo courtesy of FG Trade // Getty Images

The Homestead

Madison, Connecticut

Situated in a quintessential southern New England coastal town, The Homestead includes 11 individual rooms and has been run by the same family for three decades and three generations. Guests can explore the beautiful surroundings on complimentary beach cruiser bicycles.

Photo courtesy of Rafa Jodar / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Inn at Playa Del Rey

Playa del Rey, California

Outside the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, the Inn at Playa Del Rey invites guests relax in comfy rooms our suites that feature gorgeous views of Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve. Each day at the inn begins with a delicious breakfast while overlooking the scenery, but complimentary eats don't stop there. Guests also can partake in wine and savory bites during the afternoon wine hour, as well as fresh-baked cookies available each day. 

Photo courtesy of Pilgrim's Inn

Pilgrim's Inn

Deer Isle, Maine

This post-and-beam property that dates back to 1793 includes 12 guest rooms, as well as three cottages outfitted with kitchenettes and sleeper sofas. Pilgrim's Inn features scenic views, overlooking Northwest Harbor and Mill Pond, and it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It's a charming and hospitable home base for those looking to enjoy Downeast Maine.

Photo courtesy of Joshua Haines

The Publishing House

Chicago, Illinois

The Publishing House is ensconced in an early 20th-century industrial building, which now houses 11 guest rooms. Spacious living and dining areas complement the en suite accommodations, making it easy to get to know other Windy City guests at the daily gourmet breakfast or in the shared lounge.

Photo courtesy of fcafotodigital / E+

Seven on Shelter Island

Shelter Island Heights, New York

Seven on Shelter Island in New York offers visitors an idyllic escape in the form of a refurbished 1902 whitewashed farmhouse, complete with king and queen guest rooms. In addition to adorable breakfast baskets, guests can also enjoy a swimming pool, smart home gym, lawn and board games, and beach accessories.

Photo courtesy of TSG Columbus & Kismet Visuals

The Timbrook Guesthouse

Columbus, Ohio

The Timbrook Guesthouse is close enough to downtown Columbus for a big city experience but far away enough to make you feel like you're in the countryside. A tropical theme adds to the relaxed ambience, with common areas such as the Nui Hut (gazebo), Leilani's Lagoon (outdoor pool), and the Tropical Aviary (housing parrots).

Photo courtesy of Vrooman Mansion

Vrooman Mansion

Bloomington, Illinois

Whether you're doing a Route 66 road trip or looking to use Bloomington's White Place Historic District as your temporary base, the Vrooman Mansion is a great lodging option, with its 19th-century charm and history. The rooms are adorned with antique furnishings, some with their own ornamental fireplaces and claw-foot tubs.

Photo courtesy of Jeff Noe - The Welsh Hills Inn

The Welsh Hills Inn

Granville, Ohio

Any of the rooms and suites at The Welsh Hills Inn will feel like a home away from home, with luxurious linens and cozy furnishings. Admire the original works of art and antique furnishings that adorn the spaces and enjoy a full gourmet breakfast prepared with farm-fresh ingredients each morning.

Photo courtesy of borchee // Getty Images

Wickwood Inn

Saugatuck, Michigan

Wickwood Inn offers a serene waterside setting in Michigan — without having to make the jaunt to the Upper Peninsula. In addition to the seasonally inspired breakfast, guests can also enjoy locally sourced charcuterie in the evenings. Guest accommodations range from cozy rooms to luxurious estate suites.

Photo courtesy of Drew Gibbs

The Winchester Inn

Ashland, Oregon

Step back in time when you stay in one of the 21 well-appointed guest rooms and suites located in the main house, Heritage House, Carriage House, or one of the two cottages. Guests of Winchester Inn can enjoy a two-course breakfast each morning, and, come dinner time, enjoy a meal at the on-site Alchemy Restaurant. 

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Brian cicioni.

Brian enjoys exploring cities along public transit...   Read More

Brian enjoys exploring cities along public transit lines and writing about it at his blog, imayroam.com. He also writes about food tours, layovers, and exploring movie and musical landmarks.  Brian has traveled to 57 countries as well as every state. On weekends, he leads music and film-focused tours of New York City. His five-star rated Goodfellas Tour has been featured in Airbnb Magazine. Always happy to offer tips to aspiring travel writers and tour guides, Brian has been featured at the New York Times Travel Show as part of their Meet the Experts panel.

Dennis Malcolm "Ale" Sharpton

Dennis Malcolm Byron aka Ale Sharpton is a...   Read More

Dennis Malcolm Byron aka Ale Sharpton is a world-renowned beer authority, award-winning journalist, blogger ( AleSharpton.com ), photographer, event planner, host, speaker and beer judge to name a few of his roles. While passionately traveling the globe to cover everything from automobiles to culinary scenes, celebrity profiles, sports, hotel destinations, art, and what he terms “the world’s best beverage,” Ale has contributed to more than 30 magazines and websites combined. His current media outlets include USAToday , Thrillist.com , Craft Beer & Brewing , CraftBeer.com , Theinfatuation.com , ButterATL.com , James Beard Foundation , Atlanta Magazine , and others. Along with being featured in various publications, on the web, radio, podcasts, television, beer fests, conferences, and ongoing Cruisin’ For A Brewsin’ video series, Ale utilizes his Cornell University School of Hotel Administration education and vast work experience to consult in the culinary industry as well. Forbes , Smithsonian Institution, UNTAPPD, Good Beer Hunting , and numerous others have showcased Ale’s accomplishments. In a collaboration going on six years with brewing giant New Belgium, Ale has produced a beer he conceptualized called Piano Keys—a chocolate vanilla imperial stout—geared to support diversity and racial equality. This project with New Belgium also spawned his initiative, BrewGether , which raises funds to support nonprofits embracing the same mission as Piano Keys.  Ale proudly owns AllWays Open Creative Solutions, an agency specializing in creative direction, logo design, branding, web design, video production, photography, consulting, and social media. Although a native New Yorker, Ale proudly calls Atlanta his home. Follow Ale’s globetrotting adventures on his captivating Instagram ( @realalesharpton ).

Jacky Runice

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Born in Bucktown (Chicago) when bulletproof was a home safety choice and not a coffee order, Jacky Runice has been knocking around Chicago as a professional print, online and broadcast journalist and editor specializing in separating the riff from the raff in culture, entertainment, food, travel and pure unadulterated fun. Jacky is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) and relies on her vast experience and gray matter to produce informative, entertaining content.

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

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Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Joanne and Tony DiBona

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Travel memories may fade over time, but photographs recall those magical moments.

Katie McElveen

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Writer Katie McElveen began her travel career when a wrong turn on the way to a family vacation took her on an eleven hour odyssey that she thoroughly enjoyed. Today, more than 40 countries later, her work has appeared in Real Simple, Southern Living, Global Traveler, Fodor’s, Virtuoso, Bride’s, Islands, Reader’s Digest, AFAR and other publications.

Melanie Reffes

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Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Melissa Curtin

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At age 20 Melissa Curtin traveled around the world on Semester at Sea, igniting her passion for globetrotting and learning about new cultures. She is a longtime educator, a Fora travel advisor, and has been a freelance travel and food writer for over 10 years - published in Lonely Planet, Fodor's, Insider, MSN, AAA World, Travel Awaits, and many more. Raised in Connecticut, she has joyfully lived in California the last 17 years splitting her time between Malibu and Palm Springs.

Tamara Gane

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Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

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USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

Why is it hazy in Tucson? Here's when experts say it may go away

Tucson residents may have noticed hazy skies on Thursday morning.

According to the National Weather Service in Tucson, the unusual haziness was due to overnight storm activity blowing dust into the atmosphere.

Thunderstorms on Wednesday night came from northern Mexico and mostly impacted the New Mexico border, but the remnants of the high activity settled in over Tucson on Thursday morning, according to meteorologist Dalton Van Stratten.

Visibility in some areas of the city was expected to be reduced to as little as 2.5 miles. The haze was expected to gradually fade by late morning, the weather service said.

The weather service and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality issued an air quality alert for Cochise County on Thursday morning. According to the department, there were high concentrations of pollutants lingering in the air that may be slow to clear out, resulting in moderate air quality for the Tucson area.

Another batch of strong to severe storms was also expected to come from the northeast on Thursday evening, likely bringing a more active monsoon pattern that will continue into next week, Van Stratten said.

Winds of up to 60 mph, rain and blowing dust were expected to reach the area around 5 p.m., the weather service said. Excessive heat was also expected to remain a threat through the end of the day.

Van Stratten advised residents to stay inside, secure loose objects outdoors and to keep an eye on the forecast. He also advised motorists who encounter storm activity or low visibility due to dust while driving to pull aside until weather activity settles down.

Want to leave the US? Here's how to move to Canada, Mexico and Europe as an American.

• The number of Americans considering moving to Canada, Mexico or Europe has increased over the past 12 months.
• Some are interested in moving internationally for reasons such as better quality of life, health care and more affordable retirement.
• There are several ways to move to Canada, Mexico or Europe, depending on your profile and which visa is right for you.

Get more news like this delivered to your inbox by signing up for our Travel newsletter here .

Presidential debates, Supreme Court decisions, or political differences may have some Americans considering – or revisiting – the idea of an international move . 

Attorney Jean-Francois Harvey of Harvey Law Group , a Miami-based firm assisting U.S. clients with immigration services, said his office has noticed increased demand over the past 12 months. 

“Indeed, there’s a lot of (people) who are wondering what’s happening in the U.S., and most of them want a Plan B,” Harvey told USA TODAY. “As the election comes, more people will say, maybe it’s more than a Plan B.”

However, according to Harvey, not all moves are due to political uncertainty. Others are interested in moving internationally for reasons such as better quality of life, health care and more affordable retirement. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

While many people are interested in moving to Mexico or Canada because of their proximity to the U.S., Harvey said Europe is actually the most in demand among his clientele, particularly Spain and France. He attributes that to many Americans being comfortable with the Spanish language and also how fast the Spanish and French visa process can be, possibly just a month. 

Here’s what to know about moving to Canada, Mexico, or Europe. 

Thinking of working remotely? The top 5 safest, healthiest countries for female digital nomads

Can I move to Canada? Can I move to Mexico? Can I move to Europe?

Yes, you can move to Canada, Mexico, or somewhere in Europe. It all depends on how you meet that country’s requirements and which visa is right for you. 

“What is the best way for them to enter the country and stay in the country?” Harvey said. “It all depends on your profile, like age and qualifications.” For example, depending on your profession, you could open a business in Canada and move there relatively quickly to start the business and then do the visa process later on. 

Another important factor to take into consideration is taxes, Harvey said. Many countries in Europe as well as Mexico and Canada have a double taxation agreement with the U.S. so you won’t be paying the same taxes twice. 

Also, consider how easy it is to return home and see family and friends. For some places in Europe, there are many flights to and from the U.S. For Mexico and Canada, it could be a quick flight or an easy drive across the border. 

How do I move to Canada as an American?

The easiest way for an American to relocate to Canada is through the Express Entry system, aimed at three types of skilled immigrants who want to settle in Canada, according to the Government of Canada website . Depending on the program, applicants must submit proof of at least one to two years of work experience plus other documentation like education assessments and language tests. After completing the required documentation, applicants will get a score that will determine if they can apply for residency. Unfortunately, the process can be slow, possibly up to two years, Harvey said.

You may be luckier if you have close relatives in Canada, like a child or parent, who can sponsor you. Applicants can also look for a work permit if their work falls into one of the professional categories, such as accounting, of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Work permits are usually issued for two to three years and can be renewed. 

How do I move to Mexico as an American?

One of the most straightforward ways to move to Mexico is through its retirement program, Harvey said. To apply for permanent residency in Mexico , you must prove you have at least $292,858 in investments or your bank account during the previous 12 months, or at least $7,321.47 in monthly income from your job or pension after taxes. 

Another way to move to Mexico is by purchasing property, which is technically illegal for non-Mexican citizens who want to purchase within 30 miles of the coastline but can be done through an organization of record. In that case, you’d be using the name of an institution when purchasing. 

How do I move to Europe as an American?

There are two easy ways to move to Europe as an American, according to Harvey. The first method is if you have ancestral ties to the country. Dozens of countries – such as Portugal, Spain and France – offer citizenship through descent, but it depends on how many generations ago. 

“There are a lot of programs out there based on ancestry; just the fact your great-grandfather is Spanish is enough to get a full citizenship in Spain,” he said. 

Italy’s citizenship by descent “is based on the principle of 'jure sanguinis' (right of blood),” according to the Italian Consulate of London . You just have to prove you have an Italian ancestor who emigrated abroad and was born in Italy, even if it was over a century ago.

France requires you to have one French grandparent and parent who will also apply for citizenship. French language speaking is not required. 

Many European countries also offer digital nomad visas, which allow you to live abroad and work remotely for a company elsewhere, so long as you meet a few requirements. Greece, Spain, Italy and Portugal are just a few of the countries that offer that type of visa. 

For Spain’s digital nomad visa, you must show certification of working for at least three months, proof of residence in Spain and financial means of at least 200% of the monthly Spanish national minimum wage of 1,134 euros (about $1,217), according to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation . An applicant’s children and spouse can also apply for that visa. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .