places in mexico you should never visit

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Things You Should Never Do in Mexico, Ever

Mexico is a huge and beautiful country, famed for its welcoming, friendly people. But as with any other place, foreign visitors are susceptible to making the occasional error in the unfamiliar surroundings. To avoid such blunders, take a look at our list of the things travelers should avoid doing on a vacation to Mexico.

Don’t drink the water.

Steer clear of the tap water at all costs in Mexico. Drinking from the tap can make you very sick indeed. Few restaurants, especially in big cities, would ever serve customers tap water. But if you’re enjoying a meal in a remote, rural location, it’s best to check that salads are not washed under the tap and any ice cubes are made from bottled water.

Don’t drink on the street

Although public drinking does happen in Mexico, especially in popular tourist destinations, it’s technically illegal. Do not drink on the street in big cities, because doing so will quickly attract the attention of the authorities.

Don’t reach for the hot sauce

Mexican food is laced with spicy flavors that can be intense for those not used to them. Even if you enjoy hot food, go easy in Mexico on your first few days and start adding spice when you know you can handle the heat. Stomach problems and diarrhea are common among visitors to Mexico, so avoid the hot sauce until your system has settled.

Don’t be impatient

Don’t take it personally if people are late for appointments. You will probably hear a range of excuses regarding traffic or delayed buses, but you will soon realize that the main reason for the lateness is cultural. Relax and enjoy your trip, Mexican time is flexible and trying to impose foreign standards of punctuality is a highly unproductive strategy.

Don’t forget to tip

Mexico’s tipping culture is less pronounced than the United States, but it is common courtesy to include at least 10 percent of your bill for the waiter. This rule applies for restaurants, cafés, and even bars, where you will pay for drinks when you are billed at the end of the night.

Don’t criticize Mexican food

Mexicans are rightly proud of their food, so avoid the social faux pas of casually dismissing it. You might not be a fan of greasy tortillas or melted cheese, but even UNESCO added Mexican cuisine to its cultural heritage list in 2010. Each of the country’s diverse regions uses unique ingredients and cooking techniques that define their dishes, so avoid generalizing about a source of national pride.

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Don’t miss out on the markets

Markets are the cultural and economic center of life in many Mexican communities and are a great place to find amazing food, clothing, jewelry and handicrafts. If your Spanish is up to speed you should try your hand at haggling. Let the merchant offer the price, then counter with a lower number.

Don’t flash your valuables

There’s nothing wrong with taking vacation snaps, but pack your camera away when it is not in use. Opt for simple jewelry as opposed to flashy diamond rings and keep your visa and passport locked away in your hotel. Pickpockets operate in major Mexican cities so be careful with your valuables on the metro.

Don’t hail a cab

For security reasons, it is best to avoid hailing a cab in major cities such as Mexico City and Guadalajara. Instead, have your hotel call a driver or use the official taxi sites (such as those in airports) where the cabs are fully licensed.

Don’t forget your walking shoes

You may associate Mexico with sandy beaches and sandals, but wearing proper shoes is a must in most places. Potholes and hilly streets are scattered across Mexico City, while cobblestoned avenues and unpaved paths are common in small towns.

Don’t stick to the big cities

Don’t miss out on the area surrounding the major cities, which offers stunning little-known getaways into the heart of Mexican culture. Towns like Tepoztlán near Mexico City, or Tapalpa near Guadalajara allow visitors a taste of the real flavor of Mexico.

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12 Things You Should Never Do in Mexico [Tourists: Take Note!]

Every travel blogger who has visited Mexico is likely to have a post with a list of the top things to do in Mexico.

But how about the things not to do?

As a Mexican, it is frustrating to hear foreigners talk about Mexican customs or traditions when they have no clue whether they are right or wrong in their affirmations. So, in this post I am going to share 12 things you should not do when you visit Mexico.

1. Don’t drink the water.

That’s the first thing people tell you when you tell them you are going to Mexico. But do Mexicans buy bottled water every single day, wasting money and polluting by the hundreds of plastic bottles each year? Of course not!

Water is safe to drink at restaurants and bars. At home, we get purified drinking water delivered in big 20 liter plastic jugs that you can turn in for a full one once yours is empty. You can also buy a new one at some grocery stores after paying a deposit (usually around 40-50 pesos or $2-2.50 USD) for the jug. This is a good option for slow travelers who plan on staying in the same place for a week or more. Just don’t forget to take your jug back to the store before you leave your destination to get your deposit back.

Some Airbnbs will provide you with one of those big plastic bottles (we call them garrafones) for you to trade for a full one once that one runs out. Most will simply leave a couple of small water bottles for you to have a bit of water while you get more. Unfortunately, in-home water filters are not very common in Mexico, so you’ll have to get your drinking water from stores

So remember, the tap water is not normally purified (unless there’s a filter put in). That means you’ll want to boil tap water to ensure it’s safe.

You can also bring your own personal water filter. We like this one by Lifestraw that fits on our Klean Kanteen bottles.

LifeStraw Universal Water Filter Bottle Adapter Kit Fits Select Bottles from Hydroflask, Camelbak, Kleen Kanteen, Nalgene and More

2. don’t be late..

Many people have the idea that it’s ok to always be late in Mexico. We’ve all heard about things being “on Mexico time”. But no matter where you are in the world, being late is disrespectful.

From my experience living in the U.S. I’ve noticed that people expect you to be on time for any type of arrangement. Perhaps being 5 minutes late is acceptable in certain situations. In Mexico, culturally we’re quite similar, however, some people may have gotten the idea that it’s okay to be late in Mexico because certain casual situations allow for a lot more flexibility.

In some situations being late is not too bad, like at a big party where there’s going to be lots of people, then yes, being 20-30 minutes late is not a big deal, but you never want to make people wait for you. And even at big parties, when you arrive on time you get to interact more with the hosts, you get to meet the whole family before those who show up late, you get to experience the real costumes as you may be asked to help a little by serving the food, or setting the table. Even better, you get to eat more of the awesome Mexican snacks before those who are late!

3. Don’t haggle with artisans.

I repeat, DO NOT HAGGLE! The Spanish word for haggle is regatear. Inside of this word is gatear , which means to crawl. Get the picture? This is the one that pisses me off the most. No matter what your job is, how would you feel if someone told you that what you are charging for your job is too much, or that they are not willing to pay whatever amount you charge for your work without haggling first? Would you haggle at your local Walmart? I don’t think so! So why do people think it is ok, and even expect to do it at Mexican markets, when people selling their products there work as hard as anyone else?

Do some people in Mexico do it? Yes. Is it viewed favorably or even expected? Not really.

4. Don’t go out without cash.

No matter where you go, always have at least 50 pesos with you. You never know when you are going to need cash. Some restaurants in smaller cities don’t take cards (or don’t accept tips on cards, you may need to take the bus or a taxi, or you may be stuck with Moctezuma’s revenge and need to use a public restroom where they charge 3 – 10 pesos per use. You never know when you are going to need cash, so make sure you always have some with you.

Learn everything you need to know about Mexican Pesos and tipping in Mexico here.

5. But don’t have too much cash on you.

Yes, you do need to have cash at all times while in Mexico , but don’t over do it. Flashing a wallet full of money will only make you a target for robbery. Exercise caution when going to ATMs and be aware of your surroundings. Be vigilant just as you would at any other new place you are visiting. Take the cash you need with you when you go out and leave the rest secure in your accommodation.

6. Don’t overindulge.

It may be difficult to resist all the amazing food and the very low price of alcohol, but don’t overdo it. Avoid spending precious vacation time in bed with a horrible hangover or on the toilet from eating too much. Your body may not be used to Mexican food, so give it some time to adjust and take it easy. 

Also, being drunk makes you less alert and less in control of any situations that might arise. Drink all you want when you are with friends at home. In Mexico, be vigilant when drinking out at bars or when you know you have to get back to your hotel at the end of the party.

Another thing not to overdo is sun exposure. It is possible to get a nice sun-kissed tan even when you wear sunscreen . Most sunscreens protect you from painful sunburns and will give you a more natural tan. Make sure you protect your skin even on cloudy days. The sun is really strong in Mexico and you can easily get sunburned.

7. Don’t be afraid to explore.

Mexico is a lot more than the war on drugs and crime you see on the news. It is true that bad things happen in this country, just like in most other places. But that doesn’t mean that you have to stay at your all-inclusive and miss on the opportunities to see the real Mexico. 

Take tours with local guides, support local and smaller agencies where you can pay less and do a lot more compared to the bigger travel agencies, which take as many tourists as they can put in a van and take them to all the tourist traps where sometimes you can’t even take a picture without a bunch of people getting in your way.

Many cities in Mexico are actually safer than cities in the USA, so don’t let fear ruin your trip. Get out and see the sights! Find someone willing to show you an authentic experience in Mexico. We’d be happy to show you around and teach you Spanish on one of our Spanish Immersion Retreats . 😉

8. Don’t go out without toilet paper.

This may sound weird to you but I can’t stress this enough. The state of public restrooms varies a lot depending on the area you’re at in the country. Some are clean but there’s no toilet paper, some are disgusting and have paper… you never know what you are going to get, so be prepared — especially if you are going on a road trip! 

Learn more about bathroom etiquette in Mexico here.

9. Don’t eat at the places you would eat at home

Sometimes you just want to eat a hamburger or pizza…but you are in Mexico, home to some of the most amazing food in the world. You can have your Dairy Queen and Hard Rock Cafe any other day when you go back home. Try things you’ve never had before — you won’t be disappointed (plus, the local cuisine is much cheaper!).

You can’t leave Mexico without trying real authentic Enchiladas, Mole, Sopes, Tacos, Tortas, Pozole, Flautas, and Tamales. Learning to order food in Spanish is easy, and your stomach will thank you for it.

9. Don’t Eat At The Places You Would Eat At Home

It is important that you do not get in a taxi in Mexico without first asking the price. This is because certain taxi drivers may take advantage of tourists and charge them an extremely high rate. In order to prevent being taken advantage of, it is advisable to ask the driver how much they will charge before getting into the car. 

Taxis here don’t have a meter, so every trip needs to be verified in advance. When in doubt, ask your hotel/hostel staff how much a ride should be so you know you aren’t getting ripped off.

In Spanish you can ask a taxi driver “ ¿Cuanto sería a/al… ” followed by where you want to go. 

For example, you can say ¿ Cuanto sería… (How much will it be…)

• Al centro? (to downtown?)
• Al hotel Buena Vista? (to Hotel Buena Vista)
• Al aeropuerto? (to the airport?)
• A la playa? (to the beach)

You can also use other methods to ensure you are not overcharged. For example, you can use a rideshare app such as Uber or inDrive, as these services typically offer more reasonable rates than regular taxis. 

Additionally, some airports may have predetermined rates for trips to certain destinations which provide an added sense of security that your fare won’t be overpriced.

Related: Check out our article about How to Ask for Directions in Spanish to master the phrases you’ll need the most on your trip.

11. Don’t spend big bills at small shops .

You don’t have to be in Mexico for long to know that most small shops and street vendors don’t carry much change. You can bet that attempting to use a bill that’s 4x or more the cost of your item will lead you to a dead-end in your purchase. Save yourself a headache and limit your use of 200 and 500 pesos bills for small purchases. 

If you need change, the most common convenience store in Mexico, Oxxo, is a great place to get it. Just be sure to buy something from them first. They won’t open their register for non-customers.

12. Don’t Tell People to Speak English in Mexico

While some parts of Mexico, such as Cancun, have atypical large English speaking populations, the vast majority of Mexicans speak Spanish as their native language. Telling someone to switch from their native language in their own country is considered very rude and disrespectful. Expecting someone to switch from their native language to another one can be seen as an attempt to deny them their identity and heritage, which is why it should be avoided at all costs.

Instead, visitors should try to learn some basic Spanish phrases so they can communicate with the locals more easily. This can help create better understanding between people of different backgrounds and cultures, and help bridge any potential language barriers that may exist. In fact, Speaking Spanish with the locals will help you not only earn their respect, but will help you better understand aspects of the culture that aren’t apparent through an English lens, such as humor and the warmth people express to their loved ones in their native language.

And we can help! Whether you need help with your listening comprehension , understanding different accents , or just how to roll your Rs in Spanish , we’ve got you covered.

Do Get Insurance

Ready for your next trip to Mexico? Whether you plan to visit Mexico City or Morelia, make sure you get travel and medical insurance. You never know when you might need it but it sure is nice to have it when you do. Having health insurance will give you peace of mind while traveling, allowing you to just enjoy your time abroad. We recommend choosing SafetyWing because their Nomad Insurance is a global travel medical insurance which can cover people from all over the world who are traveling outside their home country. And something cool is that you can get coverage even if you’re already abroad. Learn more about SafetyWing here .

Mexico has a bad rap for being dangerous and unsafe. However, it’s a perfectly safe country to travel to — as long as you avoid the pitfalls above and use some common sense. By following the advice here, you’ll be able to have fun, stay safe, and make the most of your time in this underrated destination!

What other things would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what should i avoid when it comes to mexican food while visiting mexico.

A: To avoid any health issues, don’t consume food from low-traffic street vendors or establishments with poor hygiene. Don’t worry about the ice – any self-respecting restaurant will not serve their customers unfiltered ice from tap water. Doing so could cause stomach issues for tourists and Mexicans alike, and said business wouldn’t be around for long.

Q: Is it safe to drink tap water while traveling in Mexico?

A: No, it’s not recommended to drink tap water in Mexico. Buy bottled water instead or water from a garrafón (water jug). Brushing your teeth with tap water is fine for most, but use bottled water if you have a particularly sensitive stomach.

Q: Are there any specific travel tips for a first-time visitor to Mexico?

A: Yes, tourists are advised to avoid wearing flashy jewelry, stay at reputable accommodations, use insured taxi services, avoid using or carrying illegal drugs, and show respect towards Mexican culture and traditions. Practice common travel safety measures like keeping your belongings secure and not wandering alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

Q: Is it okay to drink alcohol on the streets in Mexico?

A: Drinking on the street in Mexico is not acceptable and is against the law. Avoid public drinking to prevent getting into trouble with local authorities, which could lead to fines or even jail time.

Q: Can I eat tacos from street vendors in Mexico without concerns?

A: While street tacos are an essential part of the Mexican food experience, choose your street vendors wisely. Observe the vendor’s cleanliness, whether they wear gloves, and if the cooking area looks well-maintained. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for suggestions on the best places to enjoy tacos.

Q: What should I avoid doing to not make myself look like a typical tourist in Mexico?

A: To avoid standing out as a tourist, dress modestly and avoid flashy outfits and jewelry. Make an effort to learn some basic Spanish phrases, respect local customs, and immerse yourself in Mexican culture. Additionally, avoid typical tourist mistakes like constantly taking selfies or speaking too loudly.

Q: Are there unique customs or etiquette that are especially important in Mexico?

A: Yes, Mexico has some unique customs tourists should be aware of, such as greeting people with a light handshake, cheek-kissing among acquaintances, showing respect to elder individuals, and leaving tips at restaurants. Demonstrating knowledge and respect for these customs will help you blend in and be more accepted by locals.

Q: Can I make a trip to Mexico without trying traditional Mexican dishes?

A: You can, but it’s highly recommended to try traditional Mexican dishes to enhance your travel experience. Mexican cuisine is rich, diverse, and full of flavor, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to taste dishes like sopes, pozole, tamales, and chiles en nogada.

Q: Are there particular places or activities to avoid when traveling to Mexico?

A: To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, tourists should avoid visiting high-crime areas, traveling at night, using unauthorized taxi services, and participating in illegal activities. Research your destination beforehand, and seek advice from locals, hotel staff, or tour guides for the safest activities and locations.

Q: What common tourist mistakes should I avoid while in Mexico?

A: Common tourist mistakes in Mexico include drinking tap water, disrespecting local customs, engaging in illegal activities, wearing flashy outfits, haggling while shopping, and not exploring beyond popular tourist spots. Avoiding these pitfalls can help you have a more authentic and enjoyable experience in Mexico.

Photo (toilet paper) by hermaion from Pexels .

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13 Things You Should Never Do In Mexico

The golden rule of tourism is this: Don't be obnoxious. Sometimes, travelers seem to forget that they're not visiting a remote part of the United States, they're entering a completely different nation with a completely different culture, which means they really should try to learn something about the people who live there or risk being labeled "obnoxious tourist."

Some people don't really care, unfortunately, but you should. You'll have more fun, you'll be treated with respect, and you'll just have a more pleasant experience overall if you're gracious, amicable, and you know the do's and don'ts of the place you're visiting.

This is just as true in Mexico as it is in Ukraine, Japan, or Iceland. Even though Mexico is just on the other side of the border, it has a unique culture, a set of unwritten rules of behavior, and a few random quirks that might catch you off guard if you're not well informed about the ins and outs of traveling in Mexico. And guess what, you're in luck, because to get you started here are a few things you should never do while you're in Mexico.

Don't underestimate the hot sauce

We Americans love to say we're into spicy food. We slather our burritos with extra-hot salsa and we grow jalapeno peppers in our gardens and we brag to our friends about how much heat we can take. But let's face it, fellow Americans, our extra-hot hot sauce is like ketchup compared to the stuff you can get in Mexico. And jalapenos are for wimps.

Some Americans get caught totally off-guard by actual, authentic Mexican hot sauce. According to Mexpro , hot chili peppers thrive in the Mexican climate, so they've always been an important part of Mexican cuisine. Also, the locals believe that eating spicy chili peppers can actually help you manage the hot climate — spicy food makes you sweat, and sweat helps you cool down as it evaporates. That is, if you can take it.

The bottom line is, Mexican chefs aren't going to tame down their food for you, so whatever dish gets set down in front of you — even one that's typically mild in a Tex-Mex restaurant — might already be as much as you can handle. So taste first, then make sure you can manage the hot sauce before you start slathering more on.

Don't flush this stuff that literally everyone flushes

All sewage systems are not created equal. And other sewage systems are extra-not created equal.

Now, most of us know there are certain things that we just should not flush. You know, like plastic wrappers, diapers, and that really annoying noisemaking toy that your mother-in-law bought for your toddler, much though you probably like to fantasize about sending it down the ole porcelain portal. But in Mexico, there's one thing we all take for granted as being totally flushable that's not actually flushable at all, and that's toilet paper. Yes, when you visit the public restrooms in Mexico, you can flush number one and you can flush number two, but you cannot flush the stuff you used to clean up number one and number two. According to Mexico Live it Love it , the sewage systems in most Mexican cities can't handle the toilet paper.

Instead, you have to put your horrible, stained, used toilet paper in the trash can right on top of the rest of the horrible, stained, used toilet paper that everyone else put in the trash can. And then you have to hope and pray that the sink works and that the proprietors have refilled the soap dispenser in the last six months or so.

On the flipside, you probably thought there wasn't anything that could make you miss the pit toilets at your favorite campsite, so, hooray.

Those flip-flops make you look like a tourist

Summertime, yay! So many of us greet the warmer weather by kicking off our boots and swapping them for sandals and flip-flops, which become the go-to footwear for wherever we go during the season. But if your travels happen to take you to a big city in Mexico, you should seriously rethink your shoes.

According to Factory Two Four , in Mexico no one wears flip-flops in the city. Beaches, check. But flip-flops in the city are problematic for a couple reasons. First, flip-flops scream "tourist," and the locals will automatically have just a little bit less respect for you if you're traipsing about in beach footwear. Shorts are okay in hot weather, but decent footwear will give you an air of "I'm not just another blundering tourist ." Also, eww. Cities are dirty places, and your feet are not going to be pretty when you get back to your hotel for the evening.

Don't assume that everyone in the world speaks English

There's a reason people in so many countries think American tourists  are obnoxious. In the United States, you might be able to get away with telling people to speak English (even though it isn't the official language), but you can't do that in other countries. And some American tourists in Mexico seem to have forgotten that they're actually no longer in the United States.

If you typically travel in European countries, you may find that a lot of people — especially those in the service industry — do speak "the language of commerce" simply because it's good business to know English when you own a business that caters to American tourists. Mexico doesn't have quite the same standards. According to My Latin Life , Mexico ranks 43rd in English language proficiency among the world's non-English speaking nations. That means a greater percentage of people in Vietnam and Indonesia can speak English than can speak English in Mexico. So if you plan to stick to the stereotypical activities, you can probably get by without knowing any Spanish. If you're going to venture out of the usual tourist traps, it's a good idea to take a crash course in the local language.

Don't pay full price

If you try haggling over the price of a box of Milk Duds at the Chevron, people are going to look at you funny. Nobody haggles in America, at least not outside of a car lot or Craigslist. In Mexico, you can plan on haggling for just about everything, with the exception of items sold in big chain stores.

According to Make Change, street vendors will typically ask about twice what their products are worth because there's already an established expectation that there will be some haggling. In other words, if you just accept the sticker price at face value, you're not only a clueless tourist and a sucker, you are also depriving the vendor of the chance to help you feel good about yourself and your bargaining skills.

There are polite limits, though. Remember that market sellers are often supporting families in a difficult economy, so your sweet score means less income for them, and less food for their kids. Haggle, yes, but don't haggle a lot. That stuff is already pretty cheap and if you're on vacation you probably don't need the extra pesos as much as they do.

Don't skip the sunscreen

You know better than to go out in the sun without sunscreen. Right? It's not like we're still living in the '80s, when sunbathing was totally a thing and people were still using the anti-sunscreen, you know, that oily stuff that basically sucked UV rays into your skin and trapped them there right next to your smoking, precancerous skin cells. Wait, sunbathing is still a thing? Who knew.

Anyway, if you're going to be spending hours in the sun, people, wear sunscreen. This is true wherever you are, but one mistake tourists sometimes make is believing that sun exposure is the same no matter where you go. That's why British people always look like tomatoes when they go to Florida. (There's no sun in England, so they think they don't burn.)

Similarly, Americans and Canadians and people from other northerly nations may not be prepared for the intensity of the sun in Mexico. Even if you think you don't burn, well, in Mexico you probably will because Mexico is closer to the equator, which means the Sun is closer to you . And according to Cabo San Lucas Tours , you should also be choosing a biodegradable sunscreen, especially if you plan to swim in the ocean. Sunscreens that are not biodegradable can harm the coral reefs and marine life in Mexican waters.

Don't make fun of the Virgin of Guadalupe

Even the most clueless tourist knows you should respect the religious beliefs and practices of the locals. But for some reason, that respect doesn't always seem to extend to the Virgin of Guadalupe, who is a big, big deal in Mexico and not just because one portrait of her is 65 feet tall.

The Virgin of Guadalupe is the patron saint of Mexico and a symbol of Mexican identity. According to legend, she appeared in 1591 to an indigenous man named Juan Diego on Tepeyac Hill, which today is a suburb of Mexico City. The Huffington Post says her image has been used all over Mexico throughout Mexican history, and she's not just a religious symbol but also a patriotic one.

Now, one wonders why a tourist might be compelled to make fun of such an obviously venerated symbol, but tourists are notoriously clueless, callous, and arrogant, so it's not totally shocking that the occasional tourist finds something funny about the Virgin. If you do, too, just try and hold your tongue. Making fun of the Virgin of Guadalupe is a double insult — you're not only dissing the faith of the vast majority of Mexicans, but also their national identity. It's as bad as insulting a Mexican's mother, which by the way you also shouldn't do.

Don't be stupid with your money

It doesn't really matter where you go, it's generally always a good idea not to wear flashy jewelry or carry large bills around with you, unless you're in one of those exclusive resorts that prides itself on keeping out everyone who isn't a millionaire. But it's especially true in some parts of Mexico, especially in places where there's a lot of poverty.

It's wise to always be wary of pickpockets, who tend to haunt crowded places like public transport stations, shopping centers, concerts, and the like. And Mexperience says you should leave your fat wad and extra credit cards at the hotel — if you find you don't have enough cash to buy something you encounter on your travels , you can always put down a deposit and come back for it later.

Use credit and debit cards carefully, too. Don't ever give your card to your server at a restaurant; instead, pay at their card terminal. And avoid using debit cards at the gas station because card skimming is pretty popular in some places.

You already know this one: Don't drink the water

This advice is repeated so often that it's almost become an urban legend, which means some people wonder if it might really be true. But we're here to tell you, it's still very much a bad idea to drink tap water in Mexico. In fact in some parts of Mexico the locals don't even drink the tap water.

According to Cancun South , the water table in the Yucatan is high, so it's easily contaminated by trash and runoff, which means it's full of bacteria and god knows what else. But it goes way, way beyond just not drinking the water. You should also not use it to brush your teeth, and you should be wary of fresh fruits and vegetables, which are grown in local farms and are often fertilized with pig and (wait for it) human dung. Also the produce isn't washed very well, and if it is, it's washed in tap water so...

Some restaurants purify their vegetables, which makes them safe to eat, and if so that will be printed right on the menu. If that message isn't on the menu, skip the raw fruits and vegetables. And don't forget that salsa qualifies as raw "fruits and vegetables" — and to make matters worse, the salsa served at Mexican restaurants usually sits out all day and isn't changed between patrons. So if all that other stuff didn't gross you out, well, there's a little bonus for you.

Don't hail a cab

Taking a cab is something a lot of Americans do. In fact we'll quite happily get in someone's private vehicle, too, which would have been really weird a decade ago and now feels totally normal and not at all dangerous.

In Mexico City in particular, though, you can't just flag down a cab wherever you happen to be. Well, you can, but not every cab is licensed and the ones that are unlicensed aren't just operating illegally, they might actually be engaged in nefarious stuff like kidnapping and extortion of their customers. According to Mexperience , taxi-related crime doesn't happen as often as it did 10 or 15 years ago, but when it does it usually goes down like this: The taxi picks you up, but instead of taking you to your destination, it takes you to an ATM. Then you're told to withdraw cash, hand over all your belongings, and to make matters worse, it still won't take you to your destination. Instead, the driver drops you off in some remote and terrifying neighborhood in the far reaches of the city.

So how can you avoid being the victim of taxi crime? Only ride in cabs that have a distinctive white license plate that has a leading capital letter and five numbers. Unlicensed cabs won't have these kinds of plates. Other than that, you can use a "Taxi Rank" cab, which is basically a cab service you call for rather than hailing on the street.

Don't bring your own car

Well, you can bring your own car, but it's risky and you need to make sure you really know what you're doing. First of all, you need to have insurance, and not Geico or AAA. You need to carry Mexican insurance. According to Mexpro , the policy you hold while you're in Mexico needs to be purchased from a company that is registered with the Mexican Department of Insurance, and that includes the following U.S. insurers: None of them.

If you do drive your own car in Mexico and you don't buy Mexican insurance, you'll be okay as long as you're not involved in an accident. If you are involved in an accident, though, and Mexican officials decide the accident is your fault, you will be taken into custody until you can prove your ability to pay for the damage. Yes, in Mexico you will go to jail for being uninsured, and kept there until you pay.

So really, if you're too cheap to buy an insurance policy during your visit , you should just leave your car at home. Sure, you probably won't get into an accident. But if you do, it's going to ruin your vacation. And probably your return home, too.

Don't compare Mexican food to "Mexican food"

You might think you love Mexican food, but if you've only ever been to taquerias in America, you've never really had Mexican food. According to the Daily Meal , many of the staples of Mexican cuisine in America don't show up in authentic Mexican cuisine — so beef burritos, beef burritos with cheddar cheese, beef burritos with cheddar cheese and black beans, and beef burritos with cheddar cheese, black beans, and flour tortillas are all totally off the menu.

What we eat in America is not Mexican, it's Tex-Mex, which has its roots in Mexican cuisine but has evolved over the last century and a half or so to incorporate wheat flour and beef and other ingredients common in Texas but hardly ever eaten in Mexico. In fact the combination plate (an entree with rice and beans on the side) was the invention of a Tex-Mex restaurateur in the early 1900s, and nachos have only been around since the 1950s.

So the bottom line is, don't expect Tex-Mex when you go out to eat in Mexico, and don't say things like "this isn't anything like the Mexican food I get in Boise" because that's just rude.

Don't expect prompt service

We Americans like to be waited on. Don't deny it — if it weren't true we wouldn't waste so many characters praising/vilifying the service every time we feel moved to post a review on Yelp. We like polite service, we like attentive service, and most of all, we like prompt service. So change your expectations before you go to Mexico because "prompt service" is not usually in your waiter's job description. Or in anyone else's job description.

According to Mexperience , things are just a lot more laid back in Mexico. Really, that makes it the perfect place for a relaxing vacation, but sometimes American tourists have a hard time understanding that they really don't need super-prompt service while they're trying to relax. Being perpetually late and slow is kind of just a part of the Mexican culture — even people living in Mexico have come to expect that the guy they hired to fix the roof might not actually show up until two or three hours after he said he would. (Wait, contractors do that in America, too, so that's maybe not the best example.) Anyway, the same is true for waiters and other service professionals, so if you're going to go out for dinner, don't expect it to be grab and go. Plan to budget most of your evening, and just relax and enjoy.

The 15 Most Dangerous Places To Avoid In Mexico

As you embark on a journey through Mexico and explore its vibrant landscapes and rich culture, navigating wisely is key to a secure and enjoyable journey. 

Think of this guide as your personal safety compass, steering you away from the lesser-explored facets of this beautiful country, unveiling the 15 places to avoid in Mexico.

Mexico has a lot to see, from pristine beaches to picturesque landscapes, but underneath all the charm lie concerns ranging from cartel activities to high crime rates. 

Now, let’s make your Mexican holiday safe first, and adventurous second!

15 Places to Avoid When Visiting Mexico

1. los cabos – tourists are targets.

Los Cabos, also known as Cabos San Lucas, is a famous Mexican resort city known for its stunning beaches like Medano Beach and Santa Maria Bay . 

Despite its long-standing appeal to visitors worldwide, tourists have started to show concern about safety in recent years, deterring them from visiting. An increasing number of reports of crime and violence, particularly targeting tourists, have contributed to their perception. 

When visiting, tourists are advised to steer clear of areas known for drug trafficking and stick to populated, well-lit areas when venturing outside their resorts.

2. La Paz – Increased Presence Of Gangs

Located on the Baja California Peninsula, La Paz is the capital of Baja California Sur. It is known for its beautiful beaches, parks, and vibrant art by local artists. 

Unfortunately, the city’s tranquility has been disrupted by a recent surge in gang activity and crime rates. Venturing out to remote areas beyond the famous tourist hotspots significantly increases the risk of encountering a crime.  

To ensure your safety, it is best to refrain from wandering in these less frequented areas, especially at night. While exploring La Paz, be vigilant, take care of your belongings, and exercise common sense to stay safe.  

3. Chihuahua – Highest “Do Not Travel” Warning In All Of Mexico

Chihuahua City is the capital of the Northwestern Mexican state of Chihuahua. The city is known for its old-world charm with a Baroque Cathedral and a rich history of pivotal Mexican events. 

Despite being so culturally significant, it unfortunately holds the current distinction of being the “Do Not Travel” city in Mexico. The whole region faces major safety issues due to the ongoing territorial disputes among the cartels. 

Disturbing reports include a tourist’s daylight robbery at gunpoint in the city’s downtown area. Such incidents highlight the city’s underlying issue of precarious safety and how it should be avoided at all costs.    

4. Ciudad Obregón – Unsafe For Non-Locals

Ciudad Obregon is the second-largest city in the northern Mexican state of Sonora near the U.S.-Mexico border in Arizona. Unfortunately, it sits on the list of most dangerous parts of Mexico. 

Reports suggest that it has the fourth-highest murder rate per capita, averaging around 101.13 per 100,000 inhabitants annually. The city’s population is slightly over 430,000, which means there are about 435 murders each year. 

This is a result of a mix of violent, petty, and organized crimes, especially targeting non-locals. So, it is best to avoid this destination when traveling to Mexico.

5. Reynosa – Tourists Must Be Very Cautious

On the northern Tamaulipas border, Reynosa is a key crossing point into Texas, USA. Despite the city’s many cultural attractions, the city grapples with its dangers like frequent kidnappings, carjackings, and extortion.

While its murder rate of 41.48 homicides per 100,000 residents may not seem strikingly high when compared to other cities in Mexico. The local gangs and cartels specifically target visitors and immigrants passing through the border. It is important to be cautious while considering visiting Reynosa, given the prevalence of criminal activities in the area. 

6. Irapuato – Rival Cartel Groups

Irapuato, in the central region of Mexico’s state of Guanajuato, is located at the base of Arandas Hill and surrounded by two rivers. The city is known for its cultural richness. And despite its alluring appeal, the whole state grapples with a complex dynamic of eleven major criminal groups in the area.

There are constant inter-group and cartel conflicts, particularly intense cartel turf wars, which result in significant safety issues for all the residents and visitors. 

Notably, Irapuato has a high violence and homicide rate, with 81 cases per 100,000 people. Travelers are always advised to prioritize their safety and avoid this part of the country. 

7. Tijuana – High Homicide Rate

Located just south of California, Tijuana is a famous border city in Mexico. Most authorities advise against visiting the city, especially after recent events between the United States and Mexico. 

Though violent crimes against tourists are less common, petty theft and robbery are still on a high. People are advised to avoid walking around in the city, especially at night. 

Despite the local government’s initiative to make it safer for visitors, it still tops the list of areas to avoid in Mexico due to gang activity, extortion schemes, and kidnapping targeting both locals and visitors. 

8. Culiacán – Cartel Overtook The Military

The largest city and the capital of Sinaloa in the northwestern region of Mexico, Culiacán, is infamous for its notorious cartel influence. They even overpower the military and cause turmoil in the city. 

Despite having some spectacular inland attractions like nightclubs and parks, visitors are generally advised to steer clear of this place unless they have a specific purpose for visiting. 

There are frequent reports of armed robberies and assaults, resulting in a high crime rate of 61 homicides per 100,000 residents. It’s best to think twice before visiting such areas.      

9. Uruapan – Spike In Cartel Crimes

Located on the western edge of Mexico, Uruapan is the second-largest city in the state of Michoacan. It holds economic significance but is also infamous for being a cartel hub in the country. 

The city has lush greenery with stunning Spanish architecture, ass of 2022, the city had a population of 356,786. Unfortunately, the city’s surrounding area grapples with the issue of persistent violence and drug trafficking as a result of active gang activities. 

While Uruapan thrives economically, the prevalence of criminal activities, the city tops the list of bad places in Mexico.    

10. Tepic – Travel Advisory

As the capital of the Nayarit state in western Mexico, Tepic is known for its Neo-gothic Tepic Cathedral and numerous museums home to some significant pre-hispanic artifacts. It is considered the state’s urban center of thriving agriculture, producing sugarcane and tobacco. 

Home to 425,924 residents, Tepic is notoriously full of gang activity, ranking as the 36th most dangerous city in the world. It has a concerningly high reported homicide rate of 45 per 100,000 people. Both residents and tourists are advised to avoid this dangerous area as much as possible.  

11. Acapulco – Dangerous Outside Of Resorts

Acapulco is a renowned beach resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast. It is also famous for its stunning cliffs and Sierra Madre del Sur mountains. Despite the thriving resort industry, travelers are urged to confine themselves to its premises for safety reasons. 

This is because of the city’s alarming number of mysterious incidents. There have been multiple reports of dead bodies washing ashore and body parts lying on the streets. This has resulted in a significant decline in tourism. 

Most governments caution their citizens against traveling to Acapulco due to its alarmingly high crime rate of about 111 homicides per 100,000 residents.  

12. Coatzacoalcos – Travelers May Feel Unsafe

Nestled in the northern part of Veracruz, Coatzacoalcos is a significant port city on the river estuary in the Gulf of Mexico. It has stunning beach views and a vast coastline. Despite being so scenic, it is not considered safe for residents and tourists. 

The city has cultural gems such as museums and delectable restaurants, but the dark side tends to overpower with violent crime and gang activity. With a high homicide rate of 48 cases per 100,000 residents, caution is strongly advised to those considering visiting this city.   

13. Celaya – State-Wide Corruption

Celaya is a bustling city in central Mexico located northwest of Mexico City. It is renowned for its architecture and colonial grandeur. Despite its cultural attractions, the city has major corruption issues. 

With a population of 767,104, Celaya has museums, picturesque architecture, and a vibrant candy manufacturing scene. However, the uprise in violence linked to the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel defending its interests has been concerning. 

The city has an alarmingly high rate of corruption and bribery. Hence, tourists are advised to exercise caution and be vigilant to avoid scams if they visit.     

14. Ciudad Juárez – Increasing Crime Rate

South of El Paso, positioned on the Rio Grande, Ciudad Juarez is steeped in history with museums highlighting Mexico’s revolution. But the city also has a long-standing history of excessive, indiscriminate violence. 

It is also recognized as a global femicide capital; the city has one of the highest femicide rates, surpassing even Damascus during the peak of the Syrian Civil War.   

15. Mazatlan – Don’t Venture Out Alone At Night

Mazatlan is a famous resort town on the Pacific coast in Sinaloa with serene sandy beaches and an undertone of being a dangerous neighborhood. While tourist zones offer relative safety, stepping out alone at night poses risks like many other tourist destinations worldwide.

Beyond common petty crimes, tourists are also at an increased risk of cartel violence like murders and kidnappings. If you visit Mazatlan, remember to maintain a low profile and refrain from flashing your valuables.  

Final Thoughts

These are the 15 places to approach with caution when visiting Mexico. It is essential to pinpoint these places on the map to avoid them during your travel escapades. If you’re looking for more safe alternatives to enjoy your vacation, check out my article on the safest cities in Mexico .

I hope your travels through Mexico are filled with unforgettable moments and that you stay safe throughout your vacation.

I was born and raised in Mexico. Here are the 12 mistakes I see tourists make when they visit the most popular spots.

• I was born and raised in Mexico City and have seen tourists make many mistakes in my home country.
• Don't dress for the beach or the jungle in cosmopolitan Mexican metropolises, like the capital city.
• Don't hail a taxi on the street. Have your concierge or restaurant staff call you a car instead.

Some visitors don't pay enough attention to food sanitation, or they're too cautious and miss out on new experiences.

Mexican food is famous around the world for good reason. I know you want to make the most of your trip, but having a combination of chilaquiles for breakfast, mole or cochinita pibil for lunch, and tacos al pastor for dinner may lead you to have some gastrointestinal troubles. 

Pace yourself. Eating rich, greasy food three times per day , several days in a row would make even locals sick.

If you explore the street-food scene, try to make sure that the food stand where you're about to eat follows basic hygiene practices. For example, check that the cook pulling apart the queso Oaxaca for your quesadilla with their bare hands isn't also thumbing customers' bills. 

All that said, please be adventurous with food on your trip, and don't just stick to the dishes you're familiar with, like tacos and enchiladas, or else you'll be missing out on a potential trip highlight.

People often layer spoonfuls of salsa on food before checking the spice level.

Most Mexican food isn't meant to be drenched in salsa .

I often see my foreign friends add a spoonful of salsa to their tacos before even tasting it to ascertain its spice level. The result is that they practically burn their mouth off. 

At most taco places here, servers will present you with multiple tiny bowls of different salsa varieties. Use a spoon to scoop a minuscule amount and add drops of it to your taco before tasting it.

This way, you can adjust the amount of salsa and land at just the right level of spiciness for you. 

When there's a variety of salsas on hand, they usually range in spiciness . Watch out for the habanero sauce.

Not venturing outside the all-inclusive hotel is a mistake.

There's a certain type of traveler who checks countries off a list without actually leaving their all-inclusive resort . 

I love hotels, don't get me wrong, but if you have all your meals at the buffet and spend all your time at the pool or beach, I'm not sure you can really say you got to know a destination.

Many foreigners assume the entire country is hot or that summer is the best time to travel.

People I meet who aren't from Mexico usually assume that the country has high temperatures year-round, but Mexico City, where I'm from, feels like spring for most of the year. 

In the capital city, winters are mild and the hottest time of year is around Easter, not summer. In fact, I've had friends visit in July and August who wound up disappointed by the gray skies and daily evening showers. 

If you're planning on visiting during the summer, consider which part of the country you're going to. Along the coast, the rainy season, which runs from May to October, doesn't just bring annoying precipitation, but there's also a chance hurricanes will hit .

As far as cooler climates go, the northern parts of the country get quite cold in the winter. San Cristobal de las Casas, a city in the southern state of Chiapas, has a higher elevation, so bring layers if you plan on visiting. 

To avoid any disappointment, make sure you check the weather forecast prior to booking.

I wish visitors would stop dressing like they're on a jungle expedition in cosmopolitan places, like Mexico City.

Shorts and flip-flops are appropriate at any Mexican beach town , but in Mexico City and other metropolitan areas, it's best to try to blend in with the locals. 

It's not just about breaking etiquette rules and looking out of place at nicer restaurants, but it will also make you look like a street-savvy expat and keep you from sticking out as a tourist . 

A lot of tourists don't research tipping customs ahead of time and end up either overtipping or undertipping.

When it comes to tipping , I'm a firm believer that travelers need to find out about local customs instead of just applying what they would do back home. 

In Mexico, it's customary to tip 10%, 15%, or 20%, but sticking to 15% is a sure way of never messing up. However, I've never seen a local tip 20%.

I've seen some foreigners haggle too much, especially when it comes to handicrafts.

Nobody likes getting ripped off, and "gringo prices," or premiums for foreigners, are indeed a thing in Mexico, so make a counteroffer when it's appropriate. 

But if you're buying handicrafts that only cost a few dollars, consider the amount of time the creator invested in making it before you try to shave off a couple of dollars. 

Even though $2 may not be much to you, it could help pay for the artist's next meal or new supplies that allow them to continue making their pieces. 

It comes off as crass when tourists talk about how cheap everything is in Mexico.

I've seen people marvel at how cheap something is right in front of their tour guide, who probably doesn't agree. 

When you're in Mexico, you may find restaurants and the price of services a lot cheaper than what you're used to, but in my opinion, it feels a bit crass to say it out loud in front of the locals. 

Many wages in Mexico are considerably lower than they are in countries like the US, so a lot of Mexicans have less purchasing power .

If visitors expect things to run on the same schedule as they do back home, they'll be disappointed.

In laidback beach towns like Mazunte and towns like Mérida, time seems to slow down, and local waiters tend to take their time serving you. 

It's not personal, and it's not bad service. It's just not in their nature to rush through life the way many city dwellers are used to doing in large metropolises. 

Learn to relax, sit back, and accept that your meal will get there when it gets there .

On a similar note, the concept of being on time varies. Being 15 minutes late is still considered on time, even in Mexico City. So, cut people some slack.

Visitors who drink in the streets may get in trouble with law enforcement.

I can't tell you how many foreign friends have told me that they've run into trouble with the police for drinking in the street . In Mexico, it's illegal to drink alcohol in public streets and to carry open alcohol containers in public.

You can drink at restaurants with liquor licenses that enable them to serve alcohol at outdoor tables on the sidewalk, but you can't buy beer at a 7-Eleven and drink it as you walk down the street. 

The same rule goes for outdoor picnics, as it's illegal to drink alcohol at parks and beaches.

Hailing taxis on the street can be dangerous, so travelers should have their concierge call them cars instead.

Hailing a taxi off the street is a major security risk in many parts of Mexico, especially in cities. Pirate taxis, illegal and unlicensed cabs , are a big problem in Mexico City, and getting into one can be dangerous.

Do yourself a favor and opt for car-sharing apps whenever possible, or get a taxi from an official taxi stand, called a sitio. Your concierge or restaurant host can easily help you find one .

Tourists shouldn't assume they can pay for everything using their credit cards.

I love being able to pay for absolutely everything , from a taxi to a bottle of water, with my credit card when I'm in places like Europe. But you should always have spare change in the local currency when you travel to a new country.

In Mexico, you may need it to pay for a taxi or a street taco. 

And regardless of where you are in the world, you should be cautious when you use an ATM. Some criminals install devices on them that help them clone cards , so always make sure you withdraw money in broad daylight at an ATM that's located inside a bank.

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Places to Avoid in Mexico According to The U.S. State Department | Here’s Where You Should And Shouldn’t Travel

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Some places in Mexico, including Cancun and Puerto Vallarta, are extremely popular destinations for Americans traveling during spring break and Easter.

The U.S. State Department, however, has issued a number of advisories for U.S. citizens traveling to various Mexican states in recent weeks. Now, as violent crime and kidnapping rates increase across Mexico, Americans considering travel to all but two of the states in Mexico should be aware of renewed and increasing warnings, the State Department cautions.

“Violent crime — such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery — is widespread and common in Mexico,” the State Department explains . “The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.”

Is Mexico Dangerous For Tourists?

While there are so many wonderful things about Mexico, drug cartels and violent crime have crept back into the news in recent years. This is why a lot of people are concerned for their safety in Mexico when planning a trip. 

In general, Mexican drug cartels do not want to harm American tourists, but it is also true that the armed groups operate independently. If you visit popular tourist destinations, it is very common to be offered illegal drugs by a passerby. You should always say no, as these individuals are almost always connected to a major drug cartel.

Foreigners have a negative idea about how dangerous Mexico is because the U.S. State Department has high standards when it comes to risk aversion, and their travel warnings regarding Mexico may sometimes seem like fear-mongering. However, this doesn’t apply to places in Mexico that are truly dangerous and should be avoided.

American citizens, as well as Europeans, Canadians, and other tourists outside of Latin America, are generally very safe in Mexico so long as they don’t seek out illegal activities. Sought-after tourist destinations are generally not among the riskiest areas in Mexico.

Places to Avoid in Mexico According to The U.S. State Department

Here are the State Department’s recommendations for U.S. citizens considering travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To

The State Department recommends U.S. citizens not to travel to five states in Mexico due to increasing levels of crime and kidnapping.

Those states are Colima (where Manzanillo is located), Michoacan, Sinaloa (where Mazatlán is located), Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas (home to Zacatecas City).

Guerrero — where Acapulco, Zihuatanejo, and Ixtapa are located — is also on the State Department’s “Do not travel” list because crime is widespread in those areas.

Reconsider Travel To

The State Department recommends U.S. citizens reconsider travel to five states in Mexico due to crime and kidnapping.

Those states are Baja California (where Tijuana is located), Chihuahua, Guanajuato (where Guanajuato City is located), Jalisco state (home to Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta), and Sonora.

The states of Durango and Morelos are also on the State Department’s “Reconsider travel” list due to high crime rates.

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To

The State Department recommends U.S. citizens exercise increased caution when traveling to 17 areas of Mexico, primarily due to crime rates but also the threat of kidnapping in some places.

Those states are Aguascalientes, Baja California Sur (where Cabo San Lucas , San Jose del Cabo, and La Paz are located), Chiapas, Coahuila, Hidalgo, Mexico State, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca (home of Oaxaca City and Huatulco), Puebla, Queretaro, Quintana Roo (where Cancun , Cozumel, Tulum, and Riviera Maya are located), San Luis Potosi, Tabasco, Tlaxcala, and Veracruz.

Mexico City is also on the list due to high crime rates.

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To

The State Department recommends U.S. citizens exercise normal precautions when traveling to Campeche and Yucatan, where Chichen Itza and Merida are located.

Know Before You Go

If you decide to travel to Mexico, the State Department offers some guidance.

“Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos,” the State Department recommends. “Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry. Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.”

The State Department also recommends that travelers in Mexico keep both traveling companions and friends or family at home up to date about their travel plans.

Finally, if you are alone and take a taxi or Uber, be sure to take a photo of the taxi number and/or its license plate and text it to a friend or family member, the State Department recommends, especially if you’re a woman. Mexico is considered one of the five most dangerous countries for women .

You can find a detailed explanation of the threats in each state in Mexico and learn more about being safe while traveling within Mexico in the State Department’s Mexico Travel Advisory .

What Are Mexico’s Most Dangerous Cities?

The most dangerous places in Mexico are Tijuana and Acapulco, followed by Ciudad Victoria and

Ciudad Juarez in the third place. Mexico’s northern border and Central Mexico are among the least safe places in Mexico. Tijuana is even considered the most dangerous city worldwide.

Are Popular Tourist Destinations in Mexico Dangerous?

Major tourist areas popular with American tourists like San Miguel de Allende or the coastal city of Mazatlan are typically not among the most dangerous places in Mexico. However, criminal activity can occur in otherwise safe tourist zones in the southern region as well, so you better exercise caution. 

Are Beaches in Mexico Safe?

The most popular beaches in Mexico such as Playa del Carmen are considered low-risk. Reports of gang activity and cartel-related violence in the media are scaring the public away, but Washington and Mexican authorities are ensuring that policing standards stay high in popular destinations.

Is the Mexican Government Doing Enough to Counter the Organized Crime?

Mexican authorities claim to be doing all that they can to combat organized crime, and many local authorities are. However, with crime rates high and prosecutions low, people’s confidence in the state and its institutions is waning further.

Is Mexico City Dangerous for Tourists?

While Mexico City has areas with safety concerns, many tourist areas are generally safe. Exercise caution, stay in well-traveled areas, and follow local advice. Take usual precautions, and enjoy the rich cultural offerings and Mexico City historical sites.

How Can I Stay Safe in Mexico?

Mexican drug cartels do not want to harm tourists but you should exercise extreme caution anyway. Reconsider your need to travel to violent cities and remote areas as criminal groups frequently maintain roadblocks. Also, use ATMs in public spaces and during the daytime.

Jim Fulcher has been a writer and editor his entire career. In addition to writing, he also enjoys traveling--particularly in an RV. Over the course of numerous trips, Jim has driven an RV through West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming. His favorite national park is Yellowstone, which he has visited three times.

The 15 best places to visit in Mexico

Oct 9, 2023 • 14 min read

Explore Mexico's stunning landscape and see the best the country has to offer © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

Cantinas and cathedrals. Art and archaeology. Mariachis and mountains. Ruins and rainbow reefs. Mexico makes a mesmerizing escape for lovers of adventure, romance, history, culture, food, and fiery festivals .

Then there are the much-lauded  beaches with clear, blue waters you’ll want to step right into and silent paradise islands without a soul in sight. From the deep canyons of Chihuahua to the peaks of Veracruz, these are the best places to visit in Mexico .

1. Mexico City

Best place for art and vibrant culture

Wondering where to go for your first trip to Mexico? Start in the bustling capital that brims with skyscrapers, markets, gardens and parks , awe-inspiring museums and more than 22 million residents.

Top Mexico City sights include “Casa Azul,” better known as Museo Frida Kahlo , where the celebrated artist lived and died. High-spirited high jinks and chihuahua-sized micheladas are on offer when catching a lucha libre (Mexican wrestling) match at the sprawling Arena México .

For artsy folks, Mexico City is where many of the country's top muralists left behind their most important works. Peruse Diego Rivera's cinematic murals in the Palacio Nacional and the social-realism work of José Clemente Orozco in the Palacio de Bellas Artes .

For a taste of culture, float along the ancient canals of Xochimilco with a mariachi band serenade, or savor piping-hot tacos from the many street-food stalls in the downtown areas before catching a show at one of the city’s 160-odd theaters. You might be lost for words, but you’ll never be short of things to do in Mexico City.

Planning tip : Couple your Mexico City stay with a trip to see the pyramids at Teotihuacán . This archaeological site is located 50km (31 miles) northeast of Mexico City, and it was one of the largest in the Americas in the pre-Columbian era. Visit during the vernal equinox to celebrate spring.

2. Isla Holbox

Best island for bioluminescence and flamingos

For its size, Isla Holbox packs a strong biodiversity punch. Only a mile wide and 26 miles long, this is one of the best places to visit in Mexico to see bubblegum-pink flamingos in the wild (head to Punta Mosquito), catch a glimpse of whale sharks (between mid-May and mid-September), and witness the mesmerizing show of bioluminescent phytoplankton glimmering in the water. Comparable to sparkling underwater fireworks, these glowing micro-organisms are best seen on moonless nights.

Holbox (pronounced hol-bosh) is a laid-back dream of an island off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula .

With no vehicles to disturb the peace (cars are banned), sandy streets lead to endless beaches with warm, inviting water that’s waist-deep at most for adults. The island’s one alleged drawback? Questionable wi-fi, which encourages travelers to disconnect.

3. San Miguel de Allende

Best place for craft shops and folk art

This Mexican beauty has it all: a fantastic spring-like climate, extraordinary light, breathtaking architecture, superb handicraft shopping, and well-attended art workshops. With a high gallery-to-resident ratio, San Miguel de Allende is one of the best places for creative types to visit in Mexico.

The cobbled city has been luring retirees and bewitching artists since the first art institute opened in a former convent back in the 1930s. It then enticed Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Neal Cassady, who came to drink, write and read poetry in the 1960s (the latter stayed there until his death).

Today, San Miguel de Allende’s narrow, sloped streets house boutiques and cafes that dangle multicolored ribbons from wrought iron window bars, and its vibe is akin to a sepia-toned postcard from the past.

Buildings in the historic district adhere to a color code of saffron, rusty orange, ochre, terracotta, and mustard yellow. Grab a birdseye view of them from one of the city’s numerous rooftops, like Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, a firm favorite.

Planning tip : San Miguel de Allende is a three-hour drive north of Mexico City in the state of Guanajuato . Visit in spring to see the purple jacaranda trees in full bloom.

Best place for lagoon living and Maldives vibes

Everything about Bacalar is magical. Not only was it recognized by the Mexican government as a Magic Town ( Pueblo Mágico ) in 2006, but it’s also known for its ethereal jewel-toned lagoon, serene spas offering Mexican healing rituals and a distinct bohemian vibe.

Diners enjoy live music sessions beside bright indoor murals at tropical restaurant-meets-gallery El Manati , and wellness-minded travelers experience temazcal sweat ceremonies and copal cleansings at Casa Hormiga boutique hotel.

The prized activities in Bacalar are kayaking, paddleboarding and boating on the 26-mile Bacalar Lagoon , which is known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors (Laguna de Los Siete Colores) due to its mesmerizing gradient of blues and greens.

The town also has a 90m-deep (295ft) cenote (freshwater pool) and an old Spanish fortress . Nicknamed “the Maldives of Mexico,” unhurried Bacalar is one of the best places to visit in Mexico to get away from it all.

Planning tip : Bacalar is in the state of Quintana Roo, close to Mexico’s border with Belize. To get there using public transportation, take the ADO bus from Cancún, Playa del Carmen or Tulum.

5. Guadalajara

Best city for mariachi music, tequila and fine dining

Guadalajara , Mexico's second-largest city, is a dynamic cultural hub in the state of Jalisco. This is the tequila-producing region where Mariachi music was born, as well as charrería , Mexico’s national sport (don’t miss September’s annual International Mariachi and Charrería Festival).

Must-sees in Guadalajara include a lienzo (a charrería arena), the vivid frescoes of the Instituto Cultural de Cabaña – a testament to the genius of one-handed muralist José Clemente Orozco – and the three-story Mercado San Juan de Dios , Latin America’s largest indoor market.

Despite being deeply rooted in tradition, Guadalajara has recently gained recognition for its modern gastronomic excellence with multiple appearances on the coveted World’s 50 Best lists. Delight in upscale, globalized Mexican cuisine and cocktails at Alcalde and El Gallo Altanero.

Planning tip : Guadalajara's allure extends beyond its city limits. Use it as your gateway to Lake Chapala (one of the largest freshwater lakes in the country), the agave-clad fields of Tequila, or other charming Magic Towns like Tlaquepaque or Tapalpa.

6. Puerto Vallarta

Best place for sand, adventure and LGBTIQ+ events

With climactic and wild scenery, Puerto Vallarta is a popular vacation destination for Mexicans and foreign travelers alike. Framed by the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Bahía de Banderas (Bay of Banderas), it's a place where thrill seekers conquer rugged terrain and rappel down waterfalls, and families frolic on sun-kissed beaches – Playa Conchas Chinas , Playa Las Gemelas and Playa Mismaloya are noteworthy sandy spots.

The city is also popular among LGBTIQ+ travelers; there are gay-friendly Puerto Vallarta hotels, beach bars, restaurants, and nightlife establishments. Lovers take to the Zona Romantica (Romanic Zone) for alfresco meals, and strolling along the picturesque Malecon boardwalk, with its numerous bronze sculptures and street performers, is one of the best free things to do in Puerto Vallarta.

There's also plenty going on in the ocean, where you can see humpback whales breaching on the horizon, pods of dolphins rising from the waves, and mother turtles arriving to lay their eggs.

Planning tip : The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta to witness a baby turtle release is between July and December. Selected hotels like Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa host newborn turtle release ceremonies.

7. Playa del Carmen

Best place for beach-meets-city vibes

Playa del Carmen is the best of both worlds: a thriving city with a bounty of enticing restaurants and pinch-me-please white sand beaches (one is even connected to a cenote). The palm-lined Quinta Avenida is the city's bustling artery with an eclectic mix of shops, lively street performances, and gourmand-pleasing international eateries.

In this versatile beach destination, families build sandcastles alongside digital nomads and solo travelers seeking spirited adventures, while night owls congregate around Calle 12 (12th St) for throbbing nights at Mandala, La Vaquita and Coco Bongo. Another Playa del Carmen accolade is the variety of rooftop bars, from the sleek UMI Rooftop and Tokyo Kitchen to the laid-back BeRoof .

From Playa (as locals call it), day trips to Riviera Maya towns like Akumal (known for turtle encounters) are all within easy reach using colectivos (minivans). There is also a direct ferry to Cozumel with Winjet or Ultramar .

8. Chichén Itzá

Best place to see pre-Columbian architecture

If you’ve always wanted to see one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá is one of the best places to go in Mexico. With origins dating back to the 5th century, this is undoubtedly the most popular of Mexico's ancient sights.

From the imposing, monolithic El Castillo pyramid (where the shadow of the plumed serpent god Kukulcán creeps down the staircase during the spring and autumn equinoxes) to the Sacred Cenote and curiously designed El Caracol observatory, Chichén Itzá is spectacular.

Planning tip : Book a Chichén Itzá tour with an English-speaking guide to learn about the mind-blowing legacy of Maya astronomers . Note that the heat, humidity and crowds in Chichén Itzá can be fierce, so try to explore the site either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, though keep in mind that the 5pm closing is a hard exit. There is also a post-sunset sound-and-light show .

9. Zihuatanejo

Best place for an Old-Mexico feel

Zihuatanejo benefited from the fortunes of neighboring resort town Ixtapa, which Mexico’s tourism body carefully developed in the 1970s. This was a direct attempt to replicate the Caribbean splendor of Cancún on the Pacific coast.

Ixtapa’s hotspot status trickled 6.5km (4 miles) south to Zihuatanejo, which feels like a sleepy fishing village elevated by a handful of relaxed seaside sanctuaries like Thompson Zihuatanejo on Playa La Ropa .

In this blissed-out traditional Guerrero town, there are storied, curiously named beaches that are great for surfing, diving, fishing and seafood-feasting in the presence of crashing waves.

Take a walk on Playa Las Gatas (Cat Beach), reportedly named after land wildcats or the whiskered nurse sharks in Zihua’s waters, or make a dash for the aforementioned Playa La Ropa (Clothes Beach), the town’s most popular beach, which incorporates a legend of a Spanish shore wreckage containing washed silk clothes.

Best place for quiet beaches

La Paz , the capital of Baja California Sur, has something for every kind of beach lover. The city is a delightful springboard to adventures on the Sea of Cortez, home to 39% of the world’s marine mammals.

Around 40 minutes from La Paz, Playa El Saltito feels tranquil and isolated during the sweltering days, and its crystal waters come alive with bioluminescence at night. Though competition is tough, Playa Balandra , with its unique mushroom-like rock formation, is heralded as one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches.

The impossible-to-miss destination in the region is the Unesco-listed Espíritu Santo  island, where you can camp under a canopy of stunning stars, snorkel with playful sea lions and even peek at congresses of clumsy blue-footed boobies. A number of operators run activities here, including kayaking and snorkeling.

Best place for wellness and boho vibes

Over the years, Tulum shed its former name (Zama), and its position as a secluded and sleepy beach-meets-jungle town in Riviera Maya and subsequently ripened into a world-famous pilgrimage for honeymooners, hedonists and holistic tourists. The spirituality-focused traveler will find a host of things to do in Tulum ranging from cacao ceremonies to pre-Hispanic sound healing and open-air rooftop yoga classes.

Tulum is a well-rounded destination with scrumptious restaurants and bars, and accommodations for all budgets, from waterfront shacks to top-end resorts and thatch-roofed boutique boltholes like La Valise Tulum .

The beaches are postcard-ready, the most celebrated stretch being Playa Ruinas with its strikingly well-preserved Maya ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. There are also numerous attractions in the surrounding area, such as the massive Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka’an , the secluded fishing village Punta Allen and the ruins of Cobá .

Planning tip : Tulum Pueblo (the town center) is where the really cheap eats and sleeps are found, but it’s a 20-minute bike ride or 12-minute taxi to the beach. Plan ahead to find well-priced beach accommodations if that’s where you’d prefer to stay.

12. Los Cabos

Best place for glitz, glamor and parties

Sister cities Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo need no introduction. The former is notorious among party-hearty North American crowds, while the latter is more sedate with art galleries, celebrity-frequented luxury resorts, upscale boutiques and over-the-top decadent tequila tasting rooms.

Together, these perennially sunny spots on the southernmost tip of the Baja California Sur peninsula have become two of the top places to see in Mexico.

Under the blazing Cabo sun, golfers chase their dreams on emerald greens designed by legendary champion Jack Nicklaus, and surfers tackle world-class surf breaks.

Not many beaches are safe for swimming, but other outdoor pursuits like deep-sea fishing, spotting sea lions and whale watching (from mid-December to mid-April) keep water babies coming back.

13. Pico de Orizaba

Best place for a superlative trek

Pico de Orizaba is a symmetrical, snow-capped volcano on the border of Puebla and Veracruz states. Also called Citlaltépetl, it’s the highest peak in Mexico and the third-highest mountain in North America, with a summit elevation of around 5636m (18,491ft) above sea level.

Dormant but not extinct, the last recorded eruption was in 1846, and it is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico for serious climbers – professionals prep there before taking on Mount Everest. Treks start from the small village of Tlachichuca, and the ascent requires some technical skills – Pico de Orizaba is the ultimate trekking and climbing challenge in Mexico.

If sea-level thrills are more to your liking, there's plenty on offer in the town of Orizaba, including a beautiful riverside walk, a couple of impressive museums and galleries and a unique "Iron Palace. " The perfect introduction to Veracruz state's most appealing town is to hop into the cable car up to the park atop 1240m (4068ft) Cerro del Borrego.

From this lofty, green perch, you can admire the domes and bell towers of the city's many historic churches and the surrounding mountainous terrain, including the snowcapped summit of Pico de Orizaba.

14. Copper Canyon Railway

Best train ride

The Ferrocarril Chihuahua Pacífico (Copper Canyon Railway) remains one of Latin America’s best rail trips. Also known as the Chepe Express (from the “Ch” of Chihuahua and “P” of Pacífico), trains climb from sea level at Los Mochis to the town of Creel via the sensational rocky landscapes of the rust-hued Copper Canyon (the “Grand Canyon of Mexico”).

Vistas from your window during the train journey include alpine forests, subtropical valleys, Tarahumara villages and glimpses of some of the world’s deepest canyons.

Overnight en route at cinematic lodges overlooking the canyon's edge, or stay for days of exploring, hiking, horseback riding and even zip-lining in one of the best places to see in Mexico.

15. Oaxaca City

Best place for mezcal and cultural celebrations

Once the capital of the Zapotec Civilization, the state of Oaxaca is now better known as Mexico’s primary mezcal-producing region. Fine mezcals distilled around the state make their way to low-lit, atmospheric establishments in Oaxaca City like La Popular, El Destilado and La Mezcalerita, and savvy locals guide thirsty patrons on popular tours to experience the city one smoky sip at a time (check out Mezcouting and Oaxacking ).

The frequent colorful fiestas in Oaxaca City also win smiles from cultural travelers. The city’s population swells at the start of November during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivities, when Mexican families honor and celebrate their lost loves with round-the-clock vigils, joyful offerings, and parades.

One of the most unique things to see in Oaxaca City is the merrymaking during Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) on December 23. During this competition dating back to 1897, the young and old carve radishes into scenes that are displayed in Zócalo to much fanfare.

Planning tip : Venture two hours outside of Oaxaca City to reach Hierve el Agua , a jaw-dropping petrified waterfall-like formation. You can take a bus, rent a car or hire a driver to take you to these mineral-rich infinity pools.

This article was first published Jun 24, 2021 and updated Oct 9, 2023.

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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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Puerto Vallarta

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Where to Go in Mexico: A Cheat Sheet to the Top Destinations

See recent posts by Neil Gladstone

There's no denying it: Mexico remains one of the most popular international destinations for U.S. travelers year after year. Over 10.5 million U.S. tourists visited Mexico in 2019 alone, according to the Mexican government , and that number shows no signs of slowing. But Mexico is a huge place, and there's a lot more to the country than just its top destinations — like Cancun , Playa del Carmen , and Puerto Vallarta . Mexico has countless fascinating cities and towns, amazing natural sights, and thriving indigenous communities that all merit exploring, if spending a week on the beach isn't your speed. So where should you go when planning a trip to Mexico? Read on — we broke down Mexico's top destinations, from hidden gems and under-the-radar towns to its biggest cities and best beaches.

Looking for something that's not on the tourist radar? Check out our 10 favorite underrated destinations in Mexico . 

Beach at the Paradisus Cancun/Oyster

Located along the Caribbean Sea on the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun is known for its white-sand beaches and one of the world’s longest coral reefs. Cancun International Airport makes it relatively easy to fly directly into the resort town, which is really more of a city (one of Mexico’s largest). Warm year-round, the average temperature is just about 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and kept mild by trade winds. Most tourists stick to Cancun’s Hotel Zone — the isthmus that juts out into the sea, separate from the bustling city on the mainland. There, you’ll find all of the rowdy bars and nightclubs for which Cancun is famous. Resorts here vary (some are for singles, others for families) and there’s a wide range of quality — from party crash pads to truly luxurious options. For example, Beloved Playa Mujeres is an all-inclusive, adult-only property with 109 rooms that have private balconies and ocean views, plus activities such as ocean kayaking and bike tours. Grand Oasis Cancun , on the other hand, is a family-friendly mega-resort with 1,800 rooms, 18 restaurants, and entertainment geared toward all ages. There are also plenty of hotels that aren’t resorts, plus activities beyond the all-inclusive walls such as El Rey Ruins, Interactive Aquarium, and Xcaret Eco Theme Park.

Our Cancun Hotel Pick: Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun

Pool at the Le Blanc Spa Resort/Oyster

If you’re after truly luxurious amenities, a prime location right on the beach, and excellent food and drinks, Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun is for you. This adults-only property is flush with pools, wellness offerings, spacious rooms, and sea views, and is one of the most popular resorts in all of Mexico.

Pricing for Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun

Chichen Itza and the Mayan Ruins of the Yucatan

Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins/Oyster

The temple city of Chichen Itza not only has some of the best Mayan architecture in the world, but comes with a boatload of fascinating history. Its cenotes were considered an opening to the Mayan underworld, where offerings could be made to gods. Excavations of these sinkholes has yielded gold and jade artifacts — as well as human skeletons. The area is best known for El Castillo, a pyramid with 365 steps representing the days of the year. The village has several other notable structures, including the Temple of Chac Mool, also known as the Hall of the Thousand Prisoners. Located a little more 75 miles west of Cancun, a visit to the Chichen Itza UNESCO World Heritage is one of the most popular day trips from Cancun and the Riviera Maya . Other popular regional ruins include those at Coba and in Tulum. If you’d prefer not to bed down in the beach towns, we suggest an overnight in vastly underrated Valladolid, which is packed with charm.

Our Valladolid Hotel Pick: Casa Tia Micha

The Carmita at the Casa Tía Micha/Oyster

When staying is a city as charming as Valladolid, it’s crucial to find a hotel to match. We love the antique style at Casa Tía Micha and little perks like the amazing Mexican breakfast. It also has a prime location right in the center of town for easy access to great dinners after a day at the pyramids of Chichen Itza.

Pricing for Casa Tía Micha

Tulum, Riviera Maya

Beach at Mi Amor Colibri Boutique Hotel/Oyster

For travelers who want to steer clear of Mexico’s booze-guzzling spring breakers and rowdy all-inclusive resorts, Tulum is the place to be. This bohemian destination in the Riviera Maya is well-known for its delicious food, jungle parties, eco-conscious establishments, and artisanal boutiques. When you’re in Tulum it’s also worth a trip to the well-preserved Tulum Ruins , which were originally built in the waning days of Mayan civilization. It’s best to visit them before 9:30 A.M., when the sun is still rising and the crowds have yet to arrive. The entire Tulum area is lined by some of the most beautiful beaches in the Riviera Maya. Tulum also offers a range of hotels, from eco-friendly luxury spots to more modest comforts. While in the area, many visitors opt for a day trip tour of the Coba ruins to climb the 120 steps up Nohoch Mul, the tallest temple pyramid on the Yucatan peninsula. You can also head to Sian Ka’an Nature Preserve to see the wildlife and birds.

Our Tulum Hotel Pick: Be Tulum Hotel

The Arena Suite at the Be Tulum Hotel/Oyster

Year after year, Be Tulum is one of the most popular options in Tulum. The vibe here is lively, and the style is beach-chic. We love little extras like private pools or whirlpools and the great spa with a traditional temazcal for a healing ceremony.

Pricing for Be Tulum Hotel

Cabo San Lucas/Oyster

Los Cabos has several different sides, from the party-hard reputation of downtown Cabo San Lucas to the charm of San Jose del Cabo and the region’s stunning natural beauty. Los Cabos is composed of three different districts: San Jose del Cabo , Cabo San Lucas , and the long stretch of coast in between, referred to as The Corridor. San Jose del Cabo has more of a historic and cultural focus, while Cabo San Lucas is home to more bars and nightclubs. In between are countless luxury resorts and a variety of all-inclusive resorts. The area is also known for its rugged oceanfront cliffs and desert hills. Many golf courses, restaurants, bars, and resorts can be found throughout Los Cabos. Note that swimmable beaches in Los Cabos are few and far between . In Cabo San Lucas, lie on Playa Médano with views of Lands’ End and its famous Arco. Up the coast, Playa Chileno is a bit calmer (you won’t hear any booze cruises off shore). For those who want to worship the sun with a golf club in hand, there are many world-class courses, including Punta Sur, which has views of the Sea of Cortez and Sierra de la Laguna mountains.

Our Los Cabos Hotel Pick: Chileno Bay Resort & Residences

Pools at the Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection/Oyster

Situated right next to one of the few swimmable beaches in the Cabo region, Chileno Bay Resort & Residences is a perfectly low-key, but stylish hideaway. The vibe is bohemian cool, but with sophisticated flare, and everything from wellness amenities to locavore dining and rooms delight.

Pricing for Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection

Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya

Beach at Royal Hideaway Playacar/Oyster

Playa del Carmen , like big sister Cancun up the coast, has multiple personalities. There’s the raucous downtown area that includes touristy La Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) as well as bars and nightclubs, but there are also quieter luxury developments to the north and south of town: Mayakoba and Playacar. You can come here to tie one on and party at the numerous beach clubs, or relax in peace and quiet with a butler at your beck and call. Nature lovers will want to check out the nearby Rio Secreto to climb and swim through caverns punctuated with stalactites and stalagmites. Other highlights include Xcaret Eco Theme Park , which is one of the most popular adventure parks in Mexico, and snorkeling at Xel-Ha . Playa del Carmen is only about an hour south of the Cancun International Airport, making it easy to reach. You can also opt for day trips to Cozumel from here by using the ferry.

Our Playa del Carmen Hotel Pick: Royal Hideaway Playacar

The Main Pool at Royal Hideaway Playacar/Oyster

From six pools and a beautiful stretch of beach to great dining options and luxe services, the adults-only Royal Hideaway Playacar is one of the most appealing all-inclusive resorts around Playa del Carmen. It’s only a short drive from the center of Playa del Carmen, but the peace and quiet feels worlds away.

Pricing for Royal Hideaway Playacar

San Miguel de Allende

View of San Miguel de Allende from Mansion San Miguel/Oyster

During the Mexican War of Independence, San Miguel de Allende was the first town to be officially free of Spanish rule. These days, many expats and artists flock here to be a part of the flourishing creative community. A road that passed from Mexico City (Mexico’s capital) through San Miguel de Allende helped it grow, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries. The well-preserved buildings from that period, such as the iconically pink Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, bring curious travelers who want to bask in the colonial culture. The inventiveness of the current community can be seen on the walls of cafes and in the main plaza where mariachis play and craftspeople sell their wares. It’s an incredibly atmospheric town that draws tourists in droves, making it one of the easiest places to explore outside of the main cities and beach regions.

Our San Miguel de Allende Hotel Pick: Hotel Matilda

The Pool at the Hotel Matilda/Oyster

No visit to San Miguel de Allende is complete without bedding down in one of its charming boutique hotels. Hotel Matilda perfectly fits the bill and offers a great array of high-end extras, including a pool, an incredibly popular restaurant, and sharp rooms.

Pricing for Hotel Matilda

Puerto Morelos, Riviera Maya

Beach at the Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa/Oyster

Puerto Morelos is a former fishing village located halfway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. It’s a little quieter (read: no packs of drunk spring breakers) than Cancun, but has the same enchanting mix of sun, sand, and waves. The beautiful waters are shallow enough for wading and snorkeling. The impressive reefs just offshore attract a fair share of divers, and many come to take a dip in the inland cenotes (massive sinkholes filled with crystal-clear groundwater). Plus, there are several beachfront restaurants to keep you fueled up when you’re not exploring the big blue playground.

Our Puerto Morelos Hotel Pick: Desire Riviera Maya Resort

The Desire Suites at the Desire Riviera Maya Resort/Oyster

A favorite of Oyster.com readers, Desire Riviera Maya Resort is the perfect pick for travelers who are a little more adventurous. This couples-only, clothing optional all-inclusive lets you get in touch with your hedonistic side, and matches that with contemporary decor and a lively vibe.

Pricing for Desire Riviera Maya Resort

Akumal, Riviera Maya

Beach at Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya/Oyster

About 20 minutes north of Tulum, Akumal is known for its protected waters filled with sea turtles (its name even translates to “Land of the Turtles”). Dive and snorkel through the clear, calm waters to peep the coral reef, tropical fish, and docile, hard-shell creatures. Want to speed up your scuba training? Akumal Dive Shop is one of the most popular training centers in the region and offers classes. And swimmers and sunbathers who like to fuel up away from the beach can choose from one of the numerous fresh seafood restaurants joints inland.

Our Akumal Hotel Pick: TRS Yucatan

Pool at the TRS Yucatan Hotel/Oyster

With free dinners and shows at the wildly popular Chic Cabaret on-site, along with excellent dining options and one of the prettiest pools in the Riviera Maya, the TRS Yucatan is one of the nicest luxury all-inclusives in the region. The vibe is upbeat during the day, yet peaceful at night, making it a perfect adults-only escape.

Pricing for TRS Yucatan Hotel

Isla Mujeres

 Beach at the Zoetry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres Cancun/Oyster

Isla Mujeres is a former fishing village located about 10 miles by ferry from Cancun. The Spanish named this “Island of Women” — the English translation of the name — after finding many carved statues and structures devoted to the Mayan goddess Ixchel. These days, it’s a fine choice those who want to snorkel, swim, sunbathe, and kayak in a more low-key destination than some of the more frantic tourist spots on the Mexican mainland. But it’s not all about amazing beaches and water sports — Isla Mujeres also has delicious seafood, a turtle farm, and ruins. If you’re here during the winter months, you’d be smart to book a whale shark diving tour , as this part of the Caribbean Sea is one of the few places that reliably host these gentle swimming giants.

Our Isla Mujeres Hotel Pick: Zoetry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres Cancun

The Main Pool at the Zoetry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres Cancun/Oyster

This all-inclusive resort is one of the most popular on Isla Mujeres. Dining gets stellar marks, and the beachfront pool is a great spot to unwind in the sun (though the Zoetry Villa Rolandi has several other pools to cool off in).

Pricing for Zoetry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres Cancun

Mexico City

Palacio Bellas Artes/Oyster

Travelers who are more interested in soaking up culture rather than the sun should plan a trip to Mexico City . Several of the country’s most impressive museums can be found here — one of the largest cities in the world. In fact, the city likes to tout that it has more museums than any other on the planet. That starts on an incredibly high note at the National Museum of Anthropology , which houses an astonishing collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including the famous Aztec calendar stone. In the Centro Historico, the Palacio de Bellas Artes features murals by Diego Rivera and Rufino Tamayo in a building that combines Belle Epoque and Art Deco styles. The Frida Kahlo Museum , also known as La Casa Azul, is located in the Mexican artist’s former home, and boasts one of the most popular collections in the area. The National Palace, home of the executive branch of Mexico’s government, also has several beautiful gardens and Diego Rivera murals. Historic sites include Templo Mayor (one of the main temples of the Aztecs) and the Catedral Metroplitana on the Zocalo — the city’s main square. To top it off, Mexico City offers an incredible dining scene, amazing boutique shopping, wild nightlife, and a cultural calendar that never stops. Oh, and the spring-like year-round weather doesn’t hurt either.

Our Mexico City Hotel Pick: Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico

Terraza at the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico/Oyster

Located right on the Zocalo, amid Mexico City’s buzzing Centro Historico, the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico is a gem. With its beautiful historic interiors and rooftop restaurant with views of Mexico City’s main square and cathedral, make this a top pick.

Pricing for Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico

Teotihuacán

Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacan, north of Mexico City/Oyster

Once the largest city in the pre-Columbian Americas, Teotihuacán now lures history buffs to climb its numerous pyramids. Built in 150 B.C., the Pyramid of the Sun is the largest structure in the compound and has an excellent view of the mountains and the entire site. There are numerous smaller structures, including the Pyramid of the Moon and Temple of Quetzalcoatl. While many of the Teotihuacán’s relics have been moved 45 minutes away in the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City, the on-site Teotihuacán Museum has several interesting exhibits and a miniature model of the city. It’s definitely worth your time to make a day trip here from Mexico City — the pyramids are only an hour away by bus, though you can opt for a Teotihuacán guided tour as well. Be sure to bring sunscreen as there’s almost zero shade at the site.

Beach at the Hotel B Cozumel/Oyster

For scuba divers, the island of Cozumel is one of the best swimming spots in the world. Local reefs are protected in a marine reserve, allowing them to remain healthy. Numerous dive schools offer scuba certification lessons and will also take visitors out on tours to see scorpion fish, sea horses, tarpons, and plenty more. For the less adventurous, Stingray Beach offers a nice view into the clear waters without needing to strap on an air tank. On land, history fans can peruse the San Gervasio ruins, once a destination for Mayan women to offer tribute to Ixchel, goddess of fertility and love. Ferries leave for Cozumel from Playa del Carmen, which is about an hour south of Cancun’s airpot. It’s a popular day trip stop, though beware that cruise dockings can swell the islands population. For those who want to stay over, there are many hotels, from the upscale Melia Cozumel All-Inclusive Golf & Beach Resort to Hotel B Cozumel , which caters to a younger, partying crowd.

Our Cozumel Hotel Pick: Hotel B Cozumel

The Pool at the Hotel B Cozumel/Oyster

The truth is that Cozumel doesn’t have the largest hotel inventory in Mexico’s Caribbean region. However, Hotel B is an incredible exception. Interiors are attractive and contemporary, and everything from the seaside infinity pool to free loaner bikes make a stay here special.

Pricing for Hotel B Cozumel

Puerto Vallarta

Beach at the Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Great Moments All Inclusive/Oyster

While it doesn’t get the same attention as Cancun or Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most popular beach destinations. It draws a mix of families, couples, and friends looking to party, and draws a particularly loyal LGBTQ following. Gay bars are numerous in town, and drag performances shouldn’t be missed. The city sits on the Bay of Banderas, which helps shield the beaches from the notoriously strong surf along Mexico’s Pacific coast. In town, expect bars, restaurants, and tourist shops by the dozen, while outside of town, the scene is very different. Boat trips to villages like Yelapa (which can’t be accessed by car) give you a window on how the region used to look, while Nuevo Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit to the north are home to posh luxury resorts. Temperatures remain warm during most of the year (it’s about 72 degrees Fahrenheit in January and 81 degrees in summer). Keep in mind the rainy season falls between June to mid-October, with September usually being the wettest month of the year. Activities include hiking from Boca de Tomatlan to Las Animas and indulging in the numerous local foodie options. Plus, Puerto Vallarta stays awake when the sun dips below the horizon. Steamy salsa clubs light up the streets, and rowdy local bars supply a steady stream of cerveza for the thirsty traveler — gay or straight.

Our Puerto Vallarta Hotel Pick: Secrets Vallarta Bay

Aerial Photography at the Secrets Vallarta Bay/Oyster

This adults-only option draws a loyal following every year with its prime location right on the beach. Secrets Vallarta Bay definitely fits in amid Puerto Vallarta’s party scene, with its swim-up bar and generous premium all-inclusive drinks package.

Pricing for Secrets Vallarta Bay Puerto Vallarta

Santo Domingo/Oyster

Mexico’s beach resorts may be the country’s most popular tourist destinations, but Oaxaca , a state along Mexico’s southern Pacific Coast has the best of Mexico’s beach scene plus amazing inland cultural destinations. Much of that centers on Oaxaca City, which is atmospheric in the extreme and where you’ll still find the character of local indigenous cultures such as the Zapotecs and Mixtecs. Oaxaca is also home to one of the most complex local cuisines in Mexico, with dishes like hand-whipped Oaxacan chocolate, tlayudas (tortillas smeared with refried beans, Oaxacan cheese, and salsa), and tamales Oaxaqueños. Several historic sites can be found in Oaxaca City and the surrounding region, from the pre-Columbian pyramids of Monte Alban to the 18th-century Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. If you’re more adventurous, head to the stunning Hierve el Agua, an easy day trip southeast of Oaxaca City , or any of its other under-the-radar sights . Temperatures across Oaxaca range from 88 degrees Fahrenheit in summertime to 48 degrees in the winter, though that varies depending on your altitude.

Our Oaxaca Hotel Pick: Hotel La Casona de Tita

Restaurant at the Hotel La Casona De Tita/Oyster

This hotel offers old world European-style luxury with activities such as an Oaxacan cooking class and wine tasting. The artsy style is pitch-perfect is atmospheric Oaxaca and outdoor terraces make it easy to take in the region’s abundant sunshine.

Pricing for Hotel La Casona De Tita

Guadalajara

Ballrooms at the NH Collection Guadalajara Centro Historico/Oyster

Guadalajara — one of Mexico’s cultural capitals — is known as the home of mariachi music as well as an international film festival and acclaimed book fair . The beautiful work of local craftspeople can be seen in the numerous baroque churches that dot the city, including the Guadalajara Cathedral. Works by several of Mexico’s famous painters, including José Clemente Orozco, can be found on the walls and ceilings of several landmarks in the city, including Orozco’s famous “Man of Fire” in the rotunda of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hospicio Cabañas (also known as the Instituo Cultural Cabanas ). You’ll find a thriving arts scene here, plenty of cafes, and a slower pace than the country’s other main cultural hub, Mexico City.

Our Guadalajara Hotel Pick: NH Collection Guadalajara Centro Historico

The Junior Suite at the NH Collection Guadalajara Centro Historico/Oyster

Situated right amid the Centro historic of Guadalajara, the NH Collection Guadalajara has modern rooms and a great rooftop restaurant with stunning city views. You can, of course, expect tequila tastings and cool cocktails in the bar downstairs as well.

Pricing for NH Collection Guadalajara Centro Historico

Puerto Escondido

Beach at the Villa Mozart y Macondo/Oyster

You’ve likely heard some whispers about this part of Oaxaca at this point. We’ve told you that Puerto Escondido is one of Mexico’s best underrated destinations, though major outlets like The New York Times have also taken notice of it. That’s because Puerto Escondido embodies so much of what has always made Mexico an amazing place, especially if you’re looking to unwind along the ocean. Surfer vibes? Check. Amazing scenery? Check. Cool cafes and beachside restaurants? Double check. The laid-back atmosphere of Puerto Escondido, and its blissful freedom of the tourist hassle of so many other Mexican beach destinations make this a place to visit immediately. You can get here in an hour by air from Mexico City, and once here, you’ll find secret swimmable beaches and the surfer-ready Zicatela all begging for your attention.

Our Puerto Escondito Hotel Pick: Villa Mozart y Macondo

Situated just above the Zicatela, Villa Mozart y Macondo is easily one of the quirkiest and coolest spots in town. The owner’s cool art collection takes center stage, though the unique bungalows and amazing breakfast are also more than enough reason to stay here.

Pricing for Villa Mozart y Macondo

Riviera Nayarit

Beach at the Samba Vallarta – All Inclusive/Oyster

With over 190 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, wonderful resorts, and world-class golf, it’s surprising the Riviera Nayarit is now firmly on the tourist the radar. Punta Mita and Nuevo Vallarta are probably the most well-known towns in this vast region, and home to the biggest resorts, but Riviera Nayarit also hosts charming little beach towns that are worth a visit. For those whose ideal vacation involves snoozing under a straw umbrella on a gorgeous sandy beach, the shoreline is beautiful and varied. The most popular beaches are on Banderas Bay, but it’s worth exploring the beautiful stretches of sand farther north. Sayulita and San Pancho are wonderful picks and offer good waves along with plenty of bohemian charm. If you’re after something more adrenaline-pumping, opt for zip lining, surfing, hiking; and even rock climbing. While the rainy season is, well, rainy, showers usually only take place in the evening for a couple of hours. Plus, the temperatures rarely dip below the 70s at night and the high hovers above the 80s during the day year-round, so outdoor activities can be enjoyed even in the off-season.

Our Riviera Nayarit Hotel Pick: Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

View from hotel at the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit/Oyster

If you know us, you know we are enthusiastic about the Grand Velas all-inclusive chain. That’s because you get so much for what you pay for — excellent dining, beautiful grounds, and top-shelf cocktails. The Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is no exception. It has activities for adults and kids, spacious rooms, a three-tiered pool, and excellent spa.

Pricing for Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

The narrow lanes of colonial Merida/Oyster

Merida , the largest city in the state of Yucatan (the western part of the Yucatan Peninsula), has developed a distinct culture that combines influences from its Mayan, Spanish, French, and British history. A trip to “The White City,” as it’s known, usually includes a tour of Mayan ruins, beautiful cathedrals, and distinctive examples of architecture that are rarely seen elsewhere. These days, it’s making a name for itself among culture seekers and foodies as well. The cuisine here is Yucatecan, relying heavy on seafood and local tropical produce, and every week there seem to be new galleries popping up in town. Merida is land-locked, but if you’re after the beach, simply head north to Progreso, where you may spot flamingos in the lagoon if you’re lucky.

Our Merida Hotel Pick: Hacienda Santa Cruz

The Spa Pool at the Hacienda Santa Cruz/Oyster

While it’s not technically in the center of Merida — in fact, it’s about 25 minutes from town — Hacienda Santa Cruz is one of the most special properties on the Yucatan Peninsula. You’re coming here to unwind in peace and quiet after a day exploring the bustling city. There are two pools, a lovely spa, and a restaurant that serve excellent Mexican cuisine.

Pricing for Hacienda Santa Cruz

Isla Holbox

Beach at the Hotel Villas Delfines/Oyster

Holbox Island — Isla Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh) — is the Mexico of yore. Even after making a splash on the tourist scene, this isolated island has retained its quiet and quaint charm. You see, there are no cars here, and to reach it you’ll need to drive nearly two hours north of Cancun and then hop a ferry. But that commute is worth it. This is barefoot island life in the extreme, with a laid-back pace, just enough yoga and wellness spots, and great local cuisine that makes unplugging a true dream. Even better? The location is great for seeing whale sharks, pelicans, flamingos, and other wildlife.

Our Isla Holbox Hotel Pick: Las Nubes De Holbox

The Beach Pool at Las Nubes De Holbox/Oyster

Situated right along the pristine blue waters of Isla Holbox’s shore, Las Nubes de Holbox has just the right amount of creature comforts to feel like you’re spoiling yourself in an admittedly unplugged place. Rooms are spacious and sharp, there are two pools, and it’s an easy 10-minute bike ride to the center of town.

Pricing for Las Nubes De Holbox

Mazatlan is undergoing something of a rediscovery these days. You see, Hollywood stars once flocked to Mazatlan in the 1950s before the town fell on hard times the 1970s and ’80s as Acapulco became the place to be. However, Mazatlan is once again drawing in-the-know travelers. Old Mazatlan has hotels and restaurants located in restored 19th-century buildings, creating charming places to unwind for a long weekend. You’ll find plenty of dazzling sights there. Dia de los Muertos celebrations are also quite lovely in the town’s historic center. Alternatively, bars and nightclubs are the name of the game in Mazatlan’s Zona Dorada. The four-mile malecon (boardwalk) is the best place to stroll and take in the sunset. Oh, and eight miles of pretty beaches is what brought the stars to Mazatlan years ago and continues to lure new visitors today. Keep in mind that the state of Sinaloa, where Mazatlan is located, should not be explored independently.

Our Mazatlan Hotel Pick: Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay

The Master Suite at Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay/Oyster

Spacious suites, a great beachfront location, and a quiet vibe all make the Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay a great Mazatlan pick. Rooms are bright and cheerful, and there are three restaurants to choose from.

Pricing for Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa

Beach at the Hotel La Posada/Oyster

Known and loved for its excellent deep-sea fishing, Manzanillo has been the location for numerous international angling competitions. The city is home to two bays — Bahía de Manzanillo and Bahía de Santiago — with crescent-shaped beaches. The relatively little amount of tourist traffic on them keeps the sand and water pristine. Bahía de Santiago in particular also offers an excellent backdrop for snorkeling and diving. Several all-inclusive resorts are available for those who want to enjoy their fishing along with some pampering. Visitors are also usually on the lookout for the green flash phenomena: During sunrise or sunset, a small green spot can be seen on the upper edge of the sun.

Our Manzanillo Hotel Pick: Gran Festivall All Inclusive Resort

The Main Pool at the Gran Festivall All Inclusive Resort/Oyster

Situated right on the beach, the Gran Festivall All Inclusive is a simple resort with the typical amenities for an all-inclusive vacation: a nightclub, several pools, and direct beach access. You’ll find plenty of kid-friendly amenities here, making this a solid alternative to more expensive resort areas.

Pricing for Gran Festivall All Inclusive Resort

Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa

Beach at Thompson Zihuatanejo/Oyster

Zihuatanejo has long been a quiet fishing village that became a travel destination when nearby Ixtapa was developed into a resort town. Maintaining more of its cultural roots than Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo is loved by tourists who want to mix a sunbathing Mexican getaway with cute beach-town life. It’s packed with quaint restaurants and bars that make this a great alternative to more built-up resort destinations. And Ixtapa , a government-planned tourist resort just next door, is well-suited for families who want to enjoy sunbathing and all-inclusive resort life.

Our Zihuatanejo Hotel Pick: Thompson Zihuatanejo

The Adults-only Pool at the Thompson Zihuatanejo/Oyster

One of the poshest hotels in otherwise casual Zihuatanejo, the Thompson Zihuatanejo has a great spa, two beachfront restaurants, three lovely pools, and attractive rooms that make this a great pick. There are only 47 rooms here, so the vibe stays peaceful and uncrowded.

Pricing for Thompson Zihuatanejo

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The Top 10 Places in Mexico

Last Updated on December 10, 2023

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

By Jim Ferri

These 10 best places to visit in Mexico are the reason the country continues to be one of the most popular destinations for American tourists. From the sands of its many resorts on the Caribbean and the Pacific, to the cultural bonanza of its cities and states in the interior, Mexico has much to offer the traveler.Mexico is not only beautiful, culturally enriching and easily accessible, it provides many options for almost any budget.

For those who desire to explore, or just relax at one of the best Mexico beach resorts, here are the top tourism destinations in Mexico, as reported by the Mexico Tourism Board.

The crime situation in several areas of Mexico , primarily along its northern border, has received much coverage in the media. And with good reason. Because of this violence the U.S. Department of State has had a long-standing advisory on travel to Mexico. (You can read the Travel Warning and other information here ).

On the other hand, this doesn’t mean that the entire country is unsafe.

According to the U.S. Government, millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year. Also, about one million Americans live there. Like them, travelers can greatly enhance their safety by using some common sense while traveling in Mexico. It’s the same common sense one should use traveling anywhere in the world.

Cancun, Riviera Maya, Cozumel and Isla Mujeres – Best Mexico Beach Resorts

If you’re looking for sun and the best Mexico beach resorts, look no further than Cancun. It’s consistently ranked number one of the best places to visit in Mexico time and again by Orbitz and Travelocity.

Cancun and its neighbors Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, Isla Contoy, and Puerto Morelos welcome over 3 million visitors annually.

In the state of Quintana Roo almost everything focuses on water activities, including jet skiing, snorkeling and scuba diving. The latter takes place along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second longest in the world.

Beaches and hotel pools are the major draws to the Cancun and Riviera Maya regions, of course. But travelers also lured by attractions such as the Under Water Museum; the area’s culinary, nightlife and shopping experiences.

The area’s popular archeological sites of Tulum, Chichen Itza and Cobá are also among the top tourist attractions in Mexico.

Mexico City / Distrito Federal, Perennially a Favorite With Travelers

With its reputation for art, culture, shopping, recreation and cuisine, Mexico City attracts more than 12 million visitors every year. It perennially remains one of the best places to visit in Mexico. The city enjoys a lively and diverse cultural lifestyle.

You’ll find much to discover in its many historic buildings, museums, food and craft markets and art galleries. It’s home to world-class hotels, convention and meeting facilities, restaurants, and performance venues. Visitors flock to its world-famous Zócalo square, Chapultepec Park, and more than 100 museums.

Popular attractions include the colonial neighborhoods of San Ángel and Coyoacán, and the nearby archaeological zone of Teotihuacan.

The latter is a UNESCO World Heritage site, as is the city’s historical center and the lakeside area of Xochimilco. Mexico City boasts a year-round calendar of performing arts, music, dance, film festivals, art exhibitions, and business fairs and expositions.

Read More : Places to Visit in in Mexico City

Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit

Puerto Vallarta is one of the major resort destinations of Mexico, and still one of the best places to visit in Mexico This is especially true with American and Canadian travelers.

While many only associate Puerto Vallarta with sun and beach, the city is also home to one of the most dynamic art scenes in Mexico. Its Galería Dante and Galería Pacífico feature traditional and contemporary art and sculptures.

The city is also popular for its diverse selection of places to eat. They range from beach-side taco stands to upscale restaurants with panoramic views of the bay.

Riviera Nayarit, an area highly developed in the past few decades, is located about fifteen minutes from PV’s airport. The area includes the ultra-exclusive Punta Mita with some of the most high-end hotels in Mexico, as well as the resort town of Rincón de Guayabitos.

Baja California Sur: Still One of the Best Mexico Vacation Places

Known for its natural features and blazing temperature, Baja California Sur is where desert and ocean meld in Mexico. It’s always listed as one of the best places to visit in Mexico. In fact, for many, it is one of the best places to vacation in in the entire country.

Located at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Los Cabos is easily accessible by plane. This makes it a favorite destination for many American travelers, especially those from the west coast of the USA. With the Sea of Cortes on one side and the Pacific on the other, one feels they’re on an sanctuary.

The area has several high-end resorts and spas, beautiful beaches, and near-impeccable year-round weather. La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, is more of a commercial and cultural center than a vacation destination.

It does, however, attract eco-tourists looking to enjoy La Paz’s marine wonders and aquatic activities. It is also home to the Museo de Antropología e Historia and La Ruta de las Misiones.

Read More : read more about Baja and the Sea of Cortez

Guadalajara and Tequila in Jalisco

Mexico’s State of Jalisco, home to mariachi music and tequila, provides a strong taste of Mexican culture. It’s the reason it remains one of the best places to visit in Mexico.

Guadalajara is considered to be the cultural center of Western Mexico. The city’s famous historic downtown is home to Plaza de Armas, Metropolitan Cathedral and Rotonda de los Hombres Ilustres.

There are also several other museums and historical sites including Hospicio Cabañias, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Travelers also enjoy the city’s music culture, ranging from sidewalk Mariachi bands to the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jalisco.

Also in Jalisco is the town of Tequila and its surrounding agave fields, listed as a World Heritage Site. Take the Tequila Express and tour tequila country, seeing a number of haciendas, and enjoy a tasting along the way.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

Approximately 150 miles north of Acapulco, you’ll find the bayside city of Zihuatanejo and the nearby modern resort of Ixtapa. Together they make up the third most-visited tourist destination in Mexico after Cancun and Puerto Vallarta, especially for sports fishermen.

Once a sleepy fishing village, Zihuatanejo gained international popularity in the 1970s after construction of the nearby resort of Ixtapa.

The aim of the resort was to establish a Cancun-like resort on the country’s Pacific coast. With its homegrown feel and overall charm, the resort soon became one of the best places to visit in Mexico.

Zihuatanejo is only about five minutes away from the beach resort of Ixtapa, home to two world-class golf courses. It’s easily accessible to travelers by way of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International airport.

Unique Central Mexico: Querétaro, San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato City

Many travelers think to go to the coast for a Mexican vacation. But central Mexico offers a great cultural experience and is one of the unique best places to visit in Mexico.

Guanajuato City, the capital of the state located in the mountains, attracts many tourists with its museum-hopping and mine tours. The tours are both inside and outside the city, since mining is what made the city prosperous. Querétaro boasts a bustling arts and music scene, and its old section is a wonderful place to explore on foot.

San Miguel de Allende is recognized as a popular cultural center, and is home to many American and Canadian ex-pats.

Tourists can tour numerous art schools and historic buildings in the city, which is only 170 miles northwest of Mexico, including the Casa de Allende Museum and the home of Ignacio Allende. All three of the cities are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Read More : The Pleasures of Mexico’s San Miguel de Allende

Yucatan’s  Mérida, Uxmal and Chichen Itza: Popular Tourist Attractions In Mexico

The state of Yucatan draws tourists who want to explore the Mayan culture of the country. It’s famously known for its historical and archeological sites, why it remains one of the best places to visit in Mexico.

Mérida, the state’s capital and nicknamed “The White City,” is the point of departure for all Mayan routes to nearby sites. These include such famous sites as of Chichen Itza (a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home of the famous Kukulkan Mayan Pyramid), Ek Balam, and Mayapan.

The ruins at Uxmal, also a World Heritage Site, are less impressive than those at Chichen Itza. But they reveal a different, more detailed architectural style many travelers find to be worth the trip.

Many travelers also come to the region to experience Yucatan food, known for its own distinct style and Mayan influences.

Far From the Beach: Copper Canyon

Named for its copper green coloring, the Copper Canyon is located in the state of Chihuahua. It continues to lure travelers who want to experience the Chihuahua al Pacífico, commonly known as the Copper Canyon Railway.

The train runs through 390 miles of the canyons and takes 14 hours on its journey. Ranked as another of the best places to visit in Mexico, the experience is enhanced with breathtaking views and scenery.

Another tourist attraction is the 807-feet tall Basaseachic Falls, the second-highest waterfall in Mexico.

Nature lovers and eco-tourists enjoy hiking, camping and birdwatching in the area, still home to the Rarámuris and Tarahumaras, indigenous peoples who live in the mountains.

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Planning on traveling for the Fourth of July holiday? Here’s how to avoid the rush

FILE - Motorists head southbound in the local and express lanes on Interstates 90-94 in slow and thickening traffic as a CTA train enters a station on the first day of the Fourth of July holiday weekend, July 1, 2022, in Chicago. Millions of Americans are preparing to get out of town sometime in the coming Fourth of July holiday week, which will likely mean busy roads as well as packed airports and train stations. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File)

FILE - Travelers walk with their luggage through Union Station in Washington ahead of the Fourth of July holiday, July 1, 2023. Millions of Americans are preparing to get out of town sometime in the coming Fourth of July holiday week, which will likely mean busy roads as well as packed airports and train stations. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough, File)

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NEW YORK (AP) — The Fourth of July is right around the corner, and the travel rush is already heating up.

Millions of Americans are preparing to get out of town sometime in the coming holiday week. That will likely mean busy roads, as well as packed airports and train stations.

Motor club AAA projects that some 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles (80 kilometers) or more from their homes over a nine-day Independence Day travel period — surpassing pre-pandemic numbers for the U.S. holiday. And the Transportation Security Administration expects to screen over 32 million individuals in airports from this Thursday through July 8, up 5.4% from last year’s numbers.

Are you traveling for the Fourth? Here’s a rundown of what you need to know.

When is the best time to hit the road for July Fourth?

Smooth sailing for travel around any holiday is never a given. But avoiding the most hectic times, when others are rushing out of town, is a good way to start.

If you’re traveling by car for the Fourth of July, it’s best to hit the road in the morning, according to transportation data and insights provider INRIX. Peak traffic congestion varies by location, INRIX data published by AAA shows, but the worst times to drive on, or leading up to, the holiday are generally between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Either way, be prepared for the roads to be jammed.

“Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal,” Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said in a prepared statement.

July Fourth falls on a Thursday this year, and many travelers will likely take Friday July 5th off to extend their trip into a four-day weekend. Drivers in large metro areas can expect the biggest delays on Wednesday July 3 and Sunday July 7 — as travelers leave and return to town, Pishue added.

And if you’re renting a car ahead of July Fourth, the busiest pickup days will be Friday, Saturday and Wednesday before the holiday, AAA notes.

When will airports be busiest?

Airports will also likely be packed all week long — but the TSA expects most people will take to the skies on Friday.

It anticipates that it will screen more than 3 million individuals Friday. That would surpass the agency’s current record for most people screened on a single day, which reached just under 3 million last Sunday.

“We expect this summer to be our busiest ever,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said, adding that travel typical peaks around Independence Day.

Last year, the busiest day for Fourth of July air travel was also the Friday ahead of the holiday, TSA data shows. If past trends hold, travel will likely be higher on the days before and after the Fourth — particularly closer to the weekend. In 2023, for example, more than 2 million people were screened on the Fourth, which landed on a Tuesday last year, down from 2.88 million the Friday before.

What should I do if my flight is delayed or canceled?

Flights can be delayed or canceled for an array of reasons — from plane-specific mechanical problems to major storms impacting popular travel paths.

If your flight is canceled, airlines are required to provide refunds for customers, even if the cancellation is due to weather . Delays are trickier, because they typically have to meet certain criteria for relief, such as refunds or compensation — but carriers will often give customers to chance to switch to alternative flights, if available, at no cost.

In April, the Biden administration issued final rules that include requiring airlines to provide automatic cash refunds within a few days for canceled flights and “significant” delays. Those rules are set to take effect over the next two years, but the Department of Transportation has a site that lets consumers see the commitments each airline has made for refunds and covering other expenses when flights are canceled or significantly delayed.

Always check your itinerary before leaving home

It’s better to be stuck at home than locked in hourslong traffic or stranded in an airport terminal. Before heading out the door this holiday week, do yourself a favor and check the status of your travel plans.

Was your flight, train or bus ride delayed? Are there are traffic incidents set to disrupt your drive? And what about the weather? A quick look through your itinerary — such as trip updates on a carrier’s website — checking weather forecasts and monitoring traffic safety through services like the 511 hotline or your phone’s navigation apps can go a long way toward avoiding travel misery.

Here are a few more tips to keep in mind:

— Leave early: There are more people everywhere during a holiday week, so lines will be longer and roads will be busier. Give yourself more time to get to your destination or to make your way through airport security.

— Keep an eye on the weather — and not just for your destination: Look at the weather for your entire travel path. Even if it’s sunny skies both at home and the place you’re headed, it’s important to keep an eye out for any storms in between. You may need to do some rerouting.

— Be kind: A trip delay or cancellation can be really frustrating — but if you’re running into disruptions, chances are others are too. Customer service agents have a lot on their plate at this time of year, and it’s important to be patient and respectful as they try to help you.

Discover Parks & Wildlife

12 Places Where You Should Never Swim

Posted: July 2, 2024 | Last updated: July 2, 2024

Water is inviting, but some places are more horror flick than holiday. Ever wondered where not to dip your toes? We’ve got you covered. As seasoned travelers (or certified wanderlust addicts), we’ve trekked through both the picturesque and the perilous, often asking ourselves, “Should we really swim here?”

From toxic lakes to croc-infested waters, these spots are strictly look-but-don’t-touch. Let’s dive into the depths (figuratively) of the most dangerous waters on Earth.

Hanakapiai Beach, Hawaii

Situated on the picturesque island of Kauai, Hanakapiai Beach might look like a postcard dream, but it’s more like a nightmare with a great disguise. The water here is notoriously unpredictable, with rip currents so strong they could give Superman a run for his money.

There are no lifeguards to save your day, and the ocean floor drops off faster than a bad date’s interest. Over the years, many swimmers have been swept out to sea, never to return. Let’s just say, if you value your life, this is one postcard you’ll be happy just looking at.

Reunion Island, Indian Ocean

Reunion Island – a tropical paradise with a twist of peril. Sitting pretty in the Indian Ocean, it’s surrounded by beautiful, azure waters that just scream “swim in me.” But hold your horses because those waters are also home to, wait for it, an insane number of shark attacks .

We’re talking about a shark encounter rate so high it should make you consider swimming in your bathtub instead. Strong currents, limited surveillance, and the occasional bull shark hanging out make this island a dream for adrenaline junkies and a nightmare for, well, everyone else. Stay on the sand, folks!

Boiling Lake, Dominica

Boiling Lake is the quintessential “look, but don’t touch” destination. As the name subtly suggests, the water is literally boiling . But you don’t need a thermometer to confirm; just the sight of steam rising from the lake should do the trick.

Swim there, and you’ll experience natural cooking in the most unpleasant way. The surrounding fumaroles spew scalding hot gases, adding an extra layer of “do not enter” to this steaming cauldron. And walking too close can feel like stepping into an oven set on broil. Unlike your everyday hot springs, a dip here is a guaranteed recipe for disaster.

• Discover More: Think these deadly waters were wild? Wait till you hear about the natural wonders you’ll have to see to believe —Mother Nature’s real showstoppers await!

Salton Sea, California

Salton Sea – sounds serene, right? Wrong. Dip a toe in this salty mess, and you’ll regret it quicker than agreeing to a 7 AM meeting. This inland sea is hyper-saline , basically meaning it’s salty enough to pickle you, and it’s also a toxic soup of agricultural runoff.

Fish die-offs are as common as bad weather forecasts, and decomposing bodies emit hydrogen sulfide, making the air smell like rotten eggs. Add in the occasional algae bloom, turning the waters into a neon green nightmare, and you’ve got yourself one heck of a disastrous dip location.

Lake Victoria, Tanzania/Uganda

Lake Victoria sounds pretty idyllic until you realize it’s more like nature’s booby trap. This massive lake straddling Tanzania and Uganda isn’t just vast; it’s full of hidden dangers. Unpredictable weather can whip up suddenly, with violent storms that could flip a boat before you can say “life jacket.”

And if you are thinking that might not be so bad, the water is also infested with the charming Nile crocodile, which thinks you’re a snack if you dare dip a toe in. Add to that the presence of bilharzia, a parasitic worm that can cause serious illness, and you have a spot better suited for a quick photo op than a swim.

Shirarahama Beach, Japan

Shirarahama Beach screams sandy paradise, yet it’s got some nasty surprises. Jellyfish love this spot as much as tourists , and their stings pack a wallop you won’t forget. Plus, strong currents swirl below the surface, ready to drag even the strongest swimmer out to sea.

As if that’s not bad enough, the beach’s proximity to rapidly changing weather patterns means you could be basking in the sun one minute and battling a tropical storm the next. So, while it looks like the perfect beach day, it’s more like nature’s way of saying, “I dare you.”

• Discover More: For those in search of mind-blowing destinations that won’t require a survival guide, you’re in luck. Dive into the world of easily accessible UNESCO sites that blend convenience with jaw-dropping splendor .

New Smyrna Beach, Florida

New Smyrna Beach in Florida is the shark bite capital of the world —yeah, you read that right. This beach boasts more shark attacks per square mile than anywhere else in the world. Swimming here is like playing a game of “Will I Get Bitten Today?”

Those blacktip and spinner sharks just love the shallow waters where humans frolic. With murky waters and schools of fish attracting sharks closer to shore, it’s essentially a buffet down there. Add in the frequent, powerful rip currents, and you’ve got a perfect recipe for aquatic disaster. Maybe stick to sunbathing if you value your limbs.

Amazon River, Brazil

The Amazon River might sound like the ultimate adventure, but it’s more like nature’s Hunger Games. First off, you’ve got the piranhas ready to make you their next meal, and if that’s not enough, the river is home to the candiru, a tiny parasitic catfish infamous for its invasive tendencies (we’ll just say don’t pee in the water).

Then there’s the delightful anaconda lurking in wait to wrap you in a deadly hug. The water is murky, filled with unpredictable currents and hidden debris that can trap even experienced swimmers. Throw in some electric eels for a shocking surprise, and you’ve got one treacherous swim.

Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland

Reynisfjara Beach is a stretch of black sand that’s as moody as a teenager. This place looks straight out of a gothic fairytale, only it’s way more sinister. Those unassuming “sneaker waves” are aptly named because they sneak up on unsuspecting beachgoers and can drag them out to sea faster than an airline loses your luggage.

And the rock formations, while picturesque, aren’t just for show— they’re geological death traps. Rogue waves crash against them with a force that could make Thor reconsider his career. Throw in some icy temperatures that could turn your toes into popsicles, and you’ve got the perfect cocktail of coastal calamities.

• Discover More: If you’re after some swimming spots where you’re less likely to encounter nature’s death traps, look no further. Discover beautiful islands that promise unforgettable, hazard-free dips .

Montezuma Well, Arizona

Montezuma Well might look like an oasis, but it’s actually a watery tomb. The well’s tranquillity is disrupted by high levels of arsenic in the water , a lovely gift from the surrounding limestone. So swimming here is like signing up for a toxic bath.

The steep, slippery banks also make escaping the water a feat for mountain goats. And hidden underwater caves and sudden drop-offs can disorient even the most seasoned daredevils. Oh, and let’s not forget the leeches—nature’s little party favors just waiting to latch onto unsuspecting swimmers. This is one “well” you don’t want to wish upon.

Loktak Lake, India

Loktak Lake might look serene with its iconic floating islands, called Phumdi, but don’t be fooled. This place is a treacherous labyrinth, especially during monsoon season when the water level surges unpredictably. The lake’s currents beneath those islands are about as predictable as winning the lottery, and they can trap and capsize boats with casual ease.

To top it off, the dense patches of floating vegetation hide these dangers from plain sight, making navigation a nightmare. Plus, the thick reeds can entangle swimmers faster than a web of lies, making every dip more dangerous than it initially appears.

Cape Tribulation, Australia

Cape Tribulation sounds like it should be the set of a thrilling adventure film, but in reality, it’s a tropical trap. The waters here are filled with box jellyfish, whose stings are excruciating and potentially lethal, and saltwater crocodiles that could star in a horror movie. Strong tides and unpredictable weather make it even more treacherous.

If you think the beach is safer, wrong again. Cassowaries (the velociraptors of the bird world that can stand nearly 6 feet tall) roam the area, and they won’t hesitate to charge if disturbed. Basically, Cape Tribulation is a paradise stacked with plot twists that could leave you in serious peril.

• Discover More: Is it just us, or does swimming instantly make you crave a BBQ feast? Nothing says summertime like diving into refreshing waters (that are safe!) and then grilling up some incredible dishes that go far beyond basic burgers and hot dogs .

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15 Places In Mexico That Are Just Plain Dangerous (And 7 That Are Super Safe)

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These 10 Underrated Florida Beach Towns Are A Great Alternative To The Keys

10 scenic, but underrated mountain towns that are great alternatives to aspen, 10 small towns to retire in florida, ranked by cost of living, read update.

More of Safe Places To Visit In Mexico (Some That Are Just Plain Dangerous)

As the weather begins to turn colder and colder, many of us are dreaming of heading away to a tropical island to soak in the sun, swim in the ocean and enjoy some time away. Mexico is easily one of the biggest hot spots for vacationers during the cold winter months , and while it is one of the most beautiful beach destinations with many worth visiting resorts , there are some places not to go in Mexico.

Mexico has seen an exponential increase in travel warnings due to everything from violence and crime to corruption, many of which are targeted towards tourists. Although some places are off-limits, there are a number of areas that are still safe and worth visiting. Here are 15 places to avoid in Mexico, and 7 that are super safe!

UPDATE: 2023/06/22 13:23 EST BY REENA JAIN

Although there are stigmas surrounding certain parts of Mexico claiming they are unsafe for foreign tourists due to a variety of factors, there are plenty of beautiful and safe places in Mexico that make it one of the most popular countries to visit in the world. The list has been updated to include two more safe places to visit in Mexico to help travelers select their next vacation destination, as well as photographs and updated information about the previous places listed as safe and where not to go in Mexico.

Related: 10 Most Beautiful Mountain Towns In Mexico You Should Visit

22 Super Safe: San Miguel de Allende - A Historical Marvel

The mesmerizing Mexican city of San Miguel de Allende is well known for its rich cultural heritage, vivacious art scene, and historical beauty . It has charming streets, old-world buildings, and a friendly vibe. Travelers may expect an enjoyable stay in the city due to its reputation for safety, low crime rates, and significant security presence.

• Places To Visit In San Miguel de Allende: Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, El Jardín, Fabrica La Aurora, Instituto Allende, El Charco del Ingenio, Museo Casa de Allende
• Best Time To Visit San Miguel de Allende: December to April

21 Super Safe: Merida - A City Of Beautiful Architecture

The city of Merida in Mexico has a vibrant culture, a long history, and beautiful architecture. Its low crime rate and inviting environment make it one of the safest places to visit in Mexico. Visitors can discover the colonial charm, archaeological sites, delectable cuisine, and exciting events. The Puuc Route, just a short drive from Merida, has numerous incredibly rewarding Mayan sights , making it a must-see destination for all history fans.

• Places To Visit In Merida: Plaza Grande (Main Square), Paseo de Montejo (Montejo Avenue), Uxmal Archaeological Site, Hacienda Sotuta de Peón, Cenote Xlacah, Dzibilchaltún Archaeological Site
• Best Time To Visit Merida: December to March

20 Super Safe: Cancun - Beach-Side Paradise

Cancun Mexico is without a doubt a spot that one would benefit immensely from visiting! Not only is it much safer than other resort cities, but it offers some of the most beautiful beaches, including Punta Maroma, one of the best Cancun beaches to visit in 2023 , one of the best Cancun beaches to visit in 2023. According to 10 Best , Cancun is home to Playa Delfines (Dolphin Beach), which is known to be among the most beautiful in the world.

• Places To Visit In Cancun: Chichen Itza, Tulum, Xcaret Park, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel
• Best Time To Visit Cancun: December to April

19 Super Safe: Mexico City - Cultural Hub

Mexico City not only serves as the capital of Mexico, but it is a cultural hub! The thriving city is full of history, culture, music, shopping, and delicious food, says Matador Network . There is so much to do in the city after dark , making it a hub for nightlife lovers. Mexico City is the best option for a complete experience if this is the kind of travel that appeals to someone who wants to experience everything that Mexico has to offer.

• Places To Visit In Mexico City: Palacio de Bellas Artes, Teotihuacan, Frida Kahlo Museum (Museo Frida Kahlo), Zocalo, Chapultepec Park (Parque Chapultepec), Xochimilco
• Best Time To Visit Mexico City: Between March and May

18 Super Safe: Puebla City - History & Architecture Galore

Puebla is a hidden gem in Mexico that offers the best of both worlds ! If you're looking to get some beautiful photos of Mexican architecture and stunning views, then Puebla is the place for you! According to Rusty Travel Trunk , the city itself is worth visiting purely because of its buildings and gorgeous architecture.

• Places To Visit In Puebla City: Zócalo (Main Square), Puebla Cathedral, Cholula Archaeological Zone, Rosary Chapel (Capilla del Rosario), Amparo Museum (Museo Amparo), Great Pyramid of Cholula
• Best Time To Visit Puebla City: January to March

17 Super Safe: Tulum - Where Adventure Awaits

Tulum is located on the Carribean coastline in Mexico and is easily the best spot for young travelers wanting to explore the country in all its glory. The resort city is a worth-visiting Mexican destination for many reasons for its travelers, many of whom arrive by cruise ship, and it has some of the top Mexican archeological sites in the country.

• Places To Visit In Tulum: Tulum Ruins, Playa Paraiso (Paradise Beach), Gran Cenote, Tulum National Park, Coba Ruins, Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
• Best Time To Visit Tulum: Between November and December

Related: Discovering Tulum's Hidden Past: 10 Fascinating Facts About Its Ruins

16 Super Safe: Puerto Vallarta - Rest, Relax & Rejuvenate

Puerto Vallarta is a dreamy Mexican beach town with lots to see and do on Pacific coast in Jalisco. It is mostly known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and thriving nightlife scene. Travelers who want to experience an array of adventure, partying, and history, should definitely visit Puerto Vallarta, says Global Guide .

• Places To Visit In Puerto Vallarta: Malecon, Los Muertos Beach, El Malecon Sculpture Trail, Banderas Bay, Islas Marietas National Park, Zona Romantica
• Best Time To Visit Puerto Vallarta: Between April and June

15 Mazatlan - Don't Venture Out Alone At Night

Mazatlan is a Mexican resort town along the Pacific shoreline in the state of Sinaloa. While the sandy beaches might seem alluring, the city itself is a bit alarming. As one would advise travelers to any destination in the globe, do not expect perfect safety in the late hours, and adhere to the boundaries of tourist zones when alone while roaming around at night.

14 Ciudad Juárez - Increasing Crime Rate

Ciudad Juarez is a Mexican city located on the Rio Grande, which is just south of El Paso, Texas. The city is full of history and museums on the country's revolution, but it might be necessary to be a bit extra cautious to avoid any mishap or untoward incident. According to National Geographic , the city is witnessing a surge in crime that affects both locals and tourists.

13 Celaya - State-Wide Corruption

Celaya is a busy city within central Mexico, located northwest of the country's capital, Mexico City. While it's known for its grand colonial buildings and architecture, the city itself is quite corrupt. According to RefWorld, there is an abundance of bribery and corruption occurring in Celaya, therefore travellers should take extra precautions to avoid scams while visiting.

12 Coatzacoalcos - Travelers May Feel Unsafe

Coatzacoalcos is one of the major port cities in the northern part of the Mexican state of Veracruz. While the city offers spectacular beach views and a shoreline that spans for miles, it is not considered a safe place for tourists! Not only would tourists feel unsafe, but locals do too! According to Mexico News Daily , the city has increased its military and security troops, which has improved the situation and increased security for both residents and tourists.

11 Acapulco - Dangerous Outside Of Resorts

Acapulco is easily one of the most recognizable beach resort towns in Mexico. The city is located on Mexico's Pacific coast and is famously known for its beautiful cliffs and Sierra Madre del Sur mountains. Despite the city's thriving resort industry, Fox News advises travellers to limit their enjoyment within the resort's boundaries for their safety, particularly given the city's substantial number of mysterious incidents.

10 Tepic - Travel Advisory

Tepic is the capital of Nayarit state in western Mexico. The city is most known for its neo-Gothic Tepic Cathedral and numerous museums with loads of pre-Hispanic artifacts. The US Department of State has issued a travel advisory for the city due to some crimes; the city is still enticing as long as travelers adhere to some basic safety precautions, just like they would in any other foreign location.

9 Uruapan - Spike In Cartel Crimes

Uruapan is the second-largest city in the Mexican state of Michoacan. Located at the western edge of the country, Uruapan is known to be quite an important city economically due to its location. While it serves an important purpose, it also serves as one of the cartel capitals in the country, says Mexico News Daily . So, it is advised to be wary of anyone who appears suspicious or euphoric while traveling.

8 Culiacán - Cartel Overtook The Military

Culiacan is located in the northwestern regions of Mexico. It is both the largest city and capital of the state of Sinaloa. This particular state is known for its cartel involvement, so much that it overtook the military in Culiacan and wreaked havoc upon the city, says Time, making it a clear spot to avoid!

7 Tijuana - High Homicide Rate

Tijuana is a border city in Mexico, located just south of California. With recent events transpiring between the United States and Mexico, Tijuana is not a spot you'd want to venture off to right now. According to worldpopulationreview.com , the city is among one of the most dangerous in the world due to homicides.

6 Irapuato - Rival Cartel Groups

Irapuato is a Mexican town located at the foot of the Arandas Hill, in the central area of the state of Guanajuato. The town lays between two rivers and offers a lot of Mexican culture and history, making it an enticing destination to visit. According to Mexican News Daily , Guanajuato is home to 11 major criminal groups, many of which clash and create a lot of problems within the state and nearby towns, so a point to consider before planning a trip.

Related: Desert Landscapes To Cultural Gems: The 10 Best Places To See In New Mexico

5 Reynosa - Tourists Must Be Very Cautious

Reynosa is yet another border city in the northern part of the state of Tamaulipas, in Mexico. The city borders the state of Texas and serves as a crossing point between the Mexico and U.S. border. According to Dallas News , Reynosa and other border cities are major cartel spots as they live to prey on migrants coming in and out of the country! Definitely, the city is one of the most dangerous places in Mexico to avoid!

4 Ciudad Obregón - Unsafe For Non-Locals

Ciudad Obregon is the second-largest city in the northern Mexican state of Sonora. This city is also located close to the United States and Mexico border in the U.S. state of Arizona. The city is not the safest for tourists and was named as one of the top 50 most dangerous and violent cities in the world, according to Business Insider.

3 Chihuahua - Highest "Do Not Travel" Warning In All Of Mexico

Chihuahua City is the capital of the northwestern Mexican state of Chihuahua. It is known for its Baroque Cathedral and home to countless historic Mexican events, however, it is currently the highest "do no travel" city in all of Mexico. According to USA Today , Chihuahua City is under a significant security alert, making it one of the sites on the list of places not to go in Mexico.

• Destinations

The 51 Best Places to Visit in Mexico and Things to Do

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Wondering what are the best places to visit in Mexico? you have landed in the right place.

I have lived in Mexico for 13 years ( and counting) and explored most of its top destinations on and off the beaten path and in this post I am going to share my top favorite ones.

When you think about Mexico the first thing that comes to your mind you staring at a blue turquoise sea from the white-sand Caribbean beach with a tropical cocktail in your hand. I feel you. And after living 7 years in Cancun I know exactly what you mean.

But Mexico is much more than that.  It’s an immense country with huge natural diversity and profound culture .

Mexico cannot be described. He must be trusted. With passion, with rage, with total surrender… Carlos Fuentes

It’s no surprise that Cancun and the Riviera Maya are the most visited destinations and for a reason, well, multiple reasons.

However, there are 31 states overall, each one boasting its own culture and traditions; amazing people, proud of their own state and happy to share it with you, traveler. Not to mention the great unique food.

There are many interesting facts about Mexico that will keep you entertained and many travel tips you should know about before traveling to Mexico .

In this post, I will take you on a journey through the most amazing places to see in Mexico and I hope to inspire you to explore more of this beautiful country that never stops fascinating me.

The most unique places to visit in Mexico

1. explore the impressive petrified waterfalls of hierve el agua (oaxaca).

A spectacular natural monument just an hour from Oaxaca City will leave you speechless. An insider tip to appreciate it better: make sure you go on your own and not with an organized tour and leave early in the morning so that you can get there before the crowd. It’s magic!

Even better would be to stay there in one of the cabañas or camp.  Hierve el Agua looks like a frozen waterfall but if you know the temperatures of that place you would know that it would be impossible for the water to freeze. I will tell you what happens then.

Two natural pools receive the waters from the springs that release different kinds of minerals, also known for their natural healing properties.

The water drips down from the pools to the cliffs creating deposits of minerals that accumulate over time and create these massive white columns around the mountains that look like iced water.

It’s a spectacular view and if you dare take a dip in the freezing water, watching the spectacular mountains around you it’s a magical experience. There is also a short hike that goes from above the pools all around the falls and you can see them from different perspectives.

2. Swim in the spectacular waterfalls of the Huasteca Potosina (San Luis Potosi)

This is actually one of my favorite places in Mexico. The Huasteca Potosina is a region that includes part of Queretaro and San Luis Potosi, northeast of Mexico City .

The region is famous for the spectacular waterfalls scattered around the town of Ciudad Valles. You can stay there and get tours that take you around amazing places such as El Salto, Tamul, Puente de Dios. There is so much to see.

3. Get lost in the Enchanted Garden of Xilitla (San Luis Potosi)

Close to the Huasteca Potosina, you can include in your Itinerary this very original and mysterious garden build by the British artist Edward James. It was his own home and now a park and museum that you can visit and spend a full day if you wish.

It’s made of concrete construction of different shapes that look like a labyrinth in the middle of a thick jungle. I arrived in Xilitla after spending 3 days in the Sierra Gorda Queretaro , an amazing trip.

I stayed only 1 night but if you have time you should spend a couple of extra nights and explore the amazing surroundings.

4. Get up early and get to the Sotano de las Golondrinas (San Luis Potosi)

Make sure you arrive in time to watch the spectacular show of thousands of birds coming out of the cave all together in a whirlpool of wings and chirping sounds. It lasts a few minutes but it’s all worth the trip.

And when you get back up to the entrance you will have a spectacular sunrise to watch.

Make sure you organize your trip with a taxi driver if you don’t have your own car, and ask him to take you around the town of Aquismon and visit the close by waterfalls.

Puente de Dios and Tamul are the closest but make sure it’s not the Puente de Dios that everybody knows, it’s another one, less known but still beautiful and closer to the town. You can include this stop in your itinerary to the Huasteca Potosina .

5. Visit Puebla and try famous Chile en Nogada in Puebla

Puebla is known as Mexico’s official culinary destination. Although every state has its food identity and specialties, Puebla can be considered the best. Its typical creative delicacies are not for every palate but are appreciated by the most.

Puebla’s historical center is nominated UNESCO Heritage Site .

Among the delicious food in Puebla , the Chile en Nogada is the most popular dish and the culinary symbol of Puebla. It’s a seasonal dish because the ingredients used can be found only in the summer. So if you want to try it, make sure you go between July and August when Chile is ready to be picked up.

There is a lot of history around this traditional plate, so they even do festivals and competitions for the best chile en Nogada. If you are a foody person, you should not miss it.

Now, they are starting to make the vegan version, which might be totally different from the original one, but for sure, you can get an idea of the flavors.

6. Hike the Nevado de Toluca (State of Mexico)

If you love hiking you will enjoy this day tour from Mexico City . An escape from the charming yet chaotic city to enjoy a hike at 4000 mt.

There are different types of hikes for any level and ability.

The best one was to me to get to the crater rim and enjoy the spectacular views of the lakes of the sun and the moon and then going down and back up on the other side. It was tough but the spectacular scenery makes up for the effort.

You will enjoy reading my post on Hiking the Nevado de Toluca with the full story of my hike and how I managed to crawl to the top. Mind that it has become a bit dangerous to go up to the top as some tourists reported several assaults.

If you want to go make sure you find a reputable company that organizes these tours in safe conditions.

7. Take a dip in a mystic cenote in the Yucatan Peninsula (Yucatan)

If you are on a trip to Yucatan you cannot miss a swim in these spectacular natural sinkholes.

There are thousands scattered around the Yucatan Peninsula. Only around Tulum, there are at least 10 that you can visit on a half-day trip .

Or if you love to explore further, the best cenotes are close to Merida , in a small town called Cuzama’, known for the incredible quantity of Cenotes that have been discovered. It’s one dirt road lined by cenotes. You can go on your own or ask local guides to take you on their moto-taxi, which adds to the fun.

8. Go whale watching in Baja California

In Baja California Sur you can experience the best whale watching in Mexico . You can see them floating and swimming around from December through March (March being the best month) and the best spot to see them is San Ignacio or Puerto Lopez Mateos.

I went on a road trip twice, once with two friends and we drove from La Paz to San Ignacio, which is a good 8 hours drive but it gives you the most spectacular views of the Sea of Cortez.

The other time I was on my own and I enjoyed it even more (Sorry friends!)

In another post, I will tell you all about my 10-day trip on the road in Baja California, including the Whale Watching trip . 

It was such an emotional experience to see that giant of the sea coming close to you and letting you pet them. Incredible. I would do it over again.

9. Climb to El Tepozteco (Tepoztlan – Morelos)

Located in Tepoztlan, a lovely town in the Mexican state of Morelos, about 2 hours from Mexico City , El Tepozteco is an ancient pyramid dedicated to the God of Pulque but its fame is mainly credited to the steep hike that you have to take in order to get to the top.

It’s a hard 2km and 500 mt elevation gain, but all worth it when you reach the top and see the spectacular views of the town.

Tepozlan became a Pueblo Magico in 2010 and it boasts many interesting historical places besides an interesting local market with delicious food, also vegan-friendly.

10. Learn about the Mariachi Tradition

Mariachi Music is the iconic melody of Mexico that accompanies all the most important events. Welcome or goodbye parties, or any other occasion to celebrate is not complete if a mariachi band is not present.

But what is a Mariachi? It’s a band generally consisting of 4 or 5 musicians wearing charro suites and playing at least two violins, a guitar, a  guitarrón (large bass guitar), and a  vihuela  (similar to a guitar but with a rounded back) and one or more of the musicians also sing.

Mariachi was recognized by UNESCO as part of the  Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity  in 2011 and the listing says Mariachi is traditional Mexican music and a fundamental element of Mexican culture” and again, “Mariachi music transmits values of respect for the natural heritage of the regions of Mexico and local history in the Spanish language and the different Indian languages of Western Mexico”.

Where to find Mariachi Music in Mexico. Well, basically everywhere. However, there are 2 famous plazas that have been known for their folklores and mariachi music, one is Plaza Garibaldi in Mexico City and the other is  Plaza de los Mariachi in Guadalajara, Jalisco, the state where the Mariachi tradition was born.

However, I have to say that I am seeing lots of negative feedback about those places from visitors that felt that those areas have lost their old traditional charm and have even become even a little unsafe.

If you are interested in knowing more in-depth about Mariachi Music you will appreciate the Mariachi music festival that takes place in Guadalajara every year.

Click here to check out the list of the Best Mariachi songs to request.

11. Practice your surfing skills in the Mexican Surfing Mecca, Sayulita

The vibrant and busy little town of the Riviera Nayarit, was just a small fishing village in the 70s when a crowd of hippies from the US in search of the perfect wave found it here, fell in love with the place, and settled down.

With time Sayulita has developed into a very demanded tourist destination, not only for surfers anymore but for anyone in search of good beach life, great drinks, sun, and a chilling vacation. In fact, Sayulita is home to the most popular beaches in Mexico .

The town has a lot to offer and will give you lots of reasons to fall in love with it. You can read my article where I share the best things to do in Sayulita and many other practical tips .

12. Go Jewelry shopping in Taxco (Guerrero)

The small town of Taxco is mainly known for its Silver mining history which was not one of the happiest for the locals but gave so much wealth to the conqueror.

As a positive result, goldsmithing became the most important activity of the local population which made Taxco one of the most important centers for Silver jewelry.

Now the mines are closed, except for one that has been turned into a museum,  but they buy the raw product and make magic with it turning it into spectacular decorative objects, personal accessories, and houseware.

The town is also a gem, built on the slope of a mountain, you will have fun walking around the steep cobblestone winding roads or taking a ride on the VW beetles that populate the street of the Pueblo Magico .

There is so much to do in Taxco  that you could spend a whole week and still wait for a dull moment. My favorite thing to do in Taxco was to visit the Pozas Azules (See next point #12)

13. Swim in the spectacular Pozas Azules (Taxco – Guerrero)

Among the things that you can do in Taxco, swimming in the Pozas Azules was one of my favorites. It’s an easy 40-minute ride on a combi (minivan) to the town of Atzala.

The bus will take you right to the entrance and then you have a 5-minute walk to the blue water pools. It’s normally a busy place but there is a way to be alone in the water.

14. Explore the breathtaking Sierra Gorda (Queretaro)

The small state of Queretaro is packed with things to do and see, one of them is the Sierra Gorda, a mountain range with such a diversity of landscape and territory you will not believe it.

It’s difficult to explore it with public transportation so you would need to rent a car or go on a tour.

I did a private tour with a local guide and I had a blast, not only because we were almost alone in the wilderness but because the places are spectacular.

Waterfalls, canyons, rivers, old churches in the middle of a deserted valley, hikes on top of a bed of clouds covering the spectacular valley.

It’s just breathtaking.

Read also : 4-day Itinerary in the Sierra Gorda Queretaro

15. Take a ride on El Chepe through the Copper Canyon (Chihuahua)

Visiting the Copper Canyon ( Barranca del Cobre in Spanish) was one of the most amazing trips of my life and I am planning to do it over again. I was there for 23 days and I was happy to do it with a friend who had the same idea of travel as me.

We explored every town and every corner and I have even done the zip line and a sort of easy via Ferrata in the Adventure Park , I don’t normally like parks of that sort but this one in the middle of the Canyon was the perfect way to experience the spectacular views you get of the huge mountain range.

It’s just breathtaking. But there is also the cultural part that is very interesting to learn about. The population of the Tarahumara , is known for their ability to run for miles and miles barefoot. It’s a world to discover.

16. Be inspired by the art galleries in Oaxaca city (Oaxaca)

Oaxaca is one of my favorite cities in Mexico and the place where I would live when I will be back from my long journey through Latin America.

Among the amazing things that conquered my heart was the artsy vibes that you can feel all around the city and you can see in the countless art galleries you can find, especially in the historical center.

Also, Oaxaca is where the local indigenous culture has a louder voice and you can see it and feel it in their traditions, festivals and textiles, and museums.

It’s such a magic place, not to mention the surroundings, packed with things to see such as the Hierve el Agua ( See #1) or the archeological site of Monte Alban towering over the valley which makes some of the best days trips from Oaxaca.

17. Enjoy the colorful murals of La Paz (Baja California)

Baja California is a world to discover, very different from the rest of Mexico and yet so Mexican in many ways. There is a huge community of American Expatriates living there which would make you feel you are not in the real Mexico, but you are.

What I loved the most about Baja California had nothing to do with culture, though. Instead, I was fascinated with the moonlike landscapes, spectacular views over the Sea of Cortez Gulf and marine life.

There are so many things to do in La Paz , Baja California Sur and the city itself is a gem, and besides offering breathtaking sunsets and a multitude of outdoor activities, boasts colorful creative murals made by different Mexican and international artists that give even more charm to the capital of Baja California Sur.

18. Have a glamorous vacation in the boho chic Tulum (Riviera Maya Quintana Roo)

Visiting Tulum might not look so unique but this crazy place has been in the headlines of many travel magazines for many reasons.

The spectacular never-ending wild beach, the fascinating archeological site overlooking the sea, and the laidback beach lifestyle have attracted a crowd of artists and entrepreneurs from the Hollywood scene, that have seen this magic town as a gold mine and invested in spectacular design hotels , fancy restaurants and bars, which transformed the once laid back fishing village into the ultimate glamorous destination among the celebrities and superstars and their entourage.

In fact, those are the ones who can afford the ultra-expensive so-named “eco-chic” lodges, chicer than eco, for sure.

But worry not, if you don’t belong to the elite, even normal people like us can enjoy the trendy town and have our moment of glory. In this Tulum itinerary , I am telling you all you need to know.

19. Swim with the whale sharks, the gentle giants of the sea

It’s an experience that you will remember forever and you will want to repeat. They are called gentle giants because they are totally innocuous and, most of the time, even playful creatures.

They migrate from the south to the north in search of food and you will be able to see them from Cancun or Holbox in the summer and in Baja California   in the wintertime. Don’t miss that tour if you are around.

20. Explore the spectacular biosphere of Calakmul (Campeche)

Calakmul is an unmissable place whether you love archeology or nature, as you get the best of both worlds. Calakmul is one of the largest protected reserves in Mexico and stretches for 7,231 km 2  (2,792 sq mi) in the state of Campeche bordering Quintana Roo in the south and El Peten in Guatemala on the west side.

To visit the biosphere you will need at least one entire day and I would recommend hiring a guide and starting in the early morning to get the chance to spot the unique wildlife living in the biosphere.

Maybe you are lucky and spot a Jaguar.

I wish I did. After the jungle tour, you will be taken to the most interesting pyramids and explained the history of the ancient Mayan civilization.

If you chose to go on your own without a guide you will still enjoy the magic atmosphere of this place. And you still be able to see lots of birds and maybe monkeys while hiking to the top of the ancient temples.

Since it’s far away to everything you will need to plan at least a 2-night stay close to the entrance. There are lovely jungle hotels for any budget and needs. If you have time I would suggest you extend your stay as the area is packed with amazing things to do . I stayed there one full week to see everything. 

21. Have a sophisticated weekend or week in one of the exquisite Haciendas of Yucatan

If you love luxury and sophisticated hotels you will definitely need to spend a couple of nights in one Haciendas . There are many, scattered around the Yucatan Peninsula .

They are old properties that were old estate that has been turned into luxury properties, offering the charm of the retro’ feeling together with the modern comfort and style.

The trend of opening a Hotel-hacienda has been increasing lately and you can find a huge variety of options from the finest property to the more laid back.

22. Fall in love with the lagoon of the 7 shades of blue in Bacalar

Bacalar is one of my favorite spots in the Riviera Maya and when you get there you will understand why. The spectacular lagoon will enchant you with its multiple shades of blues and turquoises.

There are different things that you can do in Bacalar , but my favorite is sailing on the lagoon, feeling the breeze, sitting back, relaxing and enjoying the overwhelming views, or you can take a swing on the water on Coco’s beach, swim in the cenote, or let the water take you away in the rapids, so much fun! Oh ok, there are lots of favorite things to do in Bacalar.

It’s just an exciting yet laid-back place to stay and relax. Bacalar also offers a great choice of accommodation of any sort, from Budget hostels to eco-friendly laid-back luxury lodges on the lagoon. Trust me you will love it to pieces.

23. Hike the Peña de Bernal (Bernal Peak) – Queretaro

At a couple of hours from the beautiful colonial city of Queretaro , you can find Bernal, one of the Pueblos Magicos of Mexico .

The small town is known for being at the foot of the Peña de Bernal, one of the highest Monoliths in the World.

It’s a spectacular massive rock that you might have seen standing proudly in the frame of any picture of the town.

There is nothing much to do there, besides hiking the peña. It’s a very short hike that you can do in half a day, quite steep but the views are worth all the effort. It’s suitable for families too.

If you are a climber you can certainly find your playground there. Just make sure you go with the right equipment and with a professional partner. I went there with a friend on my way to the Sierra Gorda .

And it was definitely worth the visit.

24. Join the local spirit and folklore and participate in a Callejoneada in Guanajuato (Guanajuato)

Well, it’s better if you know some Spanish but it’s still an interesting event to join, every night university students gather in the main square to take you to explore historical corners of the colonial city, while singing and telling stories and legends, of course in a funny way and most of the time involving the public, with mockery and jokes.

It’s a popular old tradition that involves a lot of skills and training by the students who do it, not only to keep the traditions alive but also to raise money to support their studies.

It’s such a great entertaining show that you will be happy to leave them a tip at the end of it.

25. Take a stroll on the Malecòn in Puerto Vallarta

Almost every touristic city built on the beach has a Malecon, which is a promenade that stretches along the beach or by the sea.

I am not sure whether the one in Puerto Vallarta is one of the best and longest in Mexico,  but I am certain that it is the most entertaining.

In fact, among all the amazing things to do in Puerto Vallarta , a stroll on the Malecon is the most popular and cheapest, and the most interesting.

Depending on which time of the day you take your walk, there is always something to entertain you.

In the morning you will enjoy the fresh breeze and the peaceful atmosphere, and a good number of doggies taking their human out for a walk :).

In the evening you will enjoy the colorful food stalls where you can try local delicacies while admiring the spectacular sunsets.

But the highlights of the Malecon are the magnificent copper statues by Sergio Bustamante , a productive Mexican artist from Guadalajara, and the Voladores of Papantla, demonstrating a traditional ritual of the ancient civilization that occupied what is now the state of Veracruz and which was recognized as Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) by UNESCO in 2009.

Most of the time you can also admire beautiful sand statues made by local artists, not to mention, paintings and other creative handicrafts. 

26. Learn about the Indigenous Textil Tradition in the colorful San Cristobal de las Casas

San Cristobal de las Casas is one of my favorite places in Mexico and although it’s been growing a lot in the past years with a huge amount of tourist arrivals and foreigners moving there (I don’t blame them), with everything that it implies, the vibrant city didn’t lose its charm.

Walk around the 3 caminadores, streets with no car access, check out the jewelry shops, and walk around the market, that’s what I loved the most about San Cristobal. The textiles market is one of a kind, an outburst of color.

There is an amount of stylish beautiful boutique hotels, where you would want to stay, and vegan-friendly restaurants where to enjoy great meals at a reasonable price, not to talk about the cute little cafes.

The surroundings of San Cristobal de las Casas are also unmissable, with waterfalls, lagoons, and other natural beauties to explore.

27. Be mesmerized by the beauty of the Waterfalls Velo de Novia and the Montebello Lagoon in Chiapas

I was mentioning in the paragraph above about the natural wonders in the surroundings of San Cristobal.

Well, this is one of them. I cannot say my favorite because the competition is high, but you will surely want to go and check it out. You are really better off going on a tour unless you have your own car.

The tour would take you to the Lagunas de Montebello National park and then to the El Chiflon waterfalls . It’s a spectacular easy hike on a boardwalk following the river flow until you get to the spectacular falls. So breathtaking and wet 🙂

28. Meet the spider monkeys in Punta Laguna

Not many people know about it, but Punta Laguna is a protected area located on the way to Valladolid coming from Tulum.

There you can spot playful and sometimes naughty spider monkeys at a very short distance and if you are lucky you might also see howling monkeys.

There is also a lagoon that you can navigate and a tiny cenote that you can explore with a little adventure. It’s a nice short trip if you are in Tulum .

29. Visit the secluded archeological site of Kohunlich

Nobody talks about it, but it’s one of the most spectacular archeological sites I have ever visited. It’s located on the way to Calakmul and you should make time to visit Kokunlich you might want to stay in the nearby all-inclusive property Explorean Kohunlich , an oasis in the jungle. Especially if you have been traveling for a while this is the best place to rest.

30. Walk around the yellow town of Izamal

Izamal is a beautiful and quaint colonial town located 68km from Merida and 254km from Cancun, it is one of the two towns in Yucatan (the other one is Valladolid) to have been included in the list of Pueblos Magicos  of Mexico, due to its interesting history and culture, and its peculiar location, surrounded by Mayan archeological sites and cenotes .

In fact, the picturesque town was also given the name, “the town of the hills,” because of the numerous Mayan settlements which have been discovered in the surrounding area.

As soon as you get there you will know why it’s called the yellow town.

31. See the pink flamingoes in the biosphere of Celestún

It’s a show that you will never forget. Just at about 2 hours from Merida, Celestún is a very small and insignificant town on the coast of the Mexican Gulf, the beach is not particularly interesting, but they have a special unique treasure.

A huge lagoon, home of a flamingo colony. There are thousands of these graceful creatures that fly across the lagoon and mingle with other bird species. You can take a tour either from the bridge at the town entrance or on the beach as well.

It’s definitely worth the trip.

32. Explore the archaeological site of Uxmal

To me the most interesting site within the Ruta Puuc in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Uxmal is the most representative settlement of the Puuc region architecture, with its hieroglyphic panels and mascarons and the peculiar layout of the buildings which reveal their mastery in astronomy.

If you can hire a guide it will be great to learn about the history behind the magnificent pre-Hispanic city. In this article, you will find more detailed information.

33. Spend a few days in Valladolid and familiarize yourself with the Yucatecan culture

Valladolid is the first colonial town when you leave the ultra-touristy Riviera Maya and it’s a special place to me.

It’s becoming more and more of a popular hub for travelers in search of an authentic cultural experience in Mexico but despite the growing number of visitors, it’s keeping the genuine vibes of a local town and yet with a lot to offer.

Spectacular colonial houses refurbished in design hotels restaurants and showrooms, museums, great food, and natural beauties.

In fact, Valladolid is surrounded by spectacular cenotes to discover and there is even one in the heart of town. You should definitely go and here is a useful guide to help you get around.

34. Visit the archeological site of Chichen-Itzà one of the seven wonders of the world

You cannot go to Mexico and ignore the majestic Chichen Itza, one of Yucatan’s most spectacular archeological sites. It symbolizes the impressive genius of the Mayan civilization, their construction abilities, and their astronomical knowledge. It will blow your mind. I assure you.

My best advice is to get there very early in the morning at 8 am when the gates open so that you avoid the crowd.

If you are coming from Cancun to Chichen Itza , you have several tours to join, or you can rent a car and visit on your own. Read my post for more detailed information.

35. Snorkeling in Cabo Pulmo

That was one of the most amazing snorkeling trips I have had. It was cold and I was shivering in the water, but I have seen so much both below and above the water.

Swimming with the sea lions was so much fun and also watching the playful whales jumping in the air so gracefully for such huge creatures.

It was an incredible experience and I talk more about it everything you need to know about Cabo Pulmo and getting there is a detailed post.

36. Enjoy the deserted beach at El Cuyo

Discovered by a kitesurfer, this off-the-beaten-track beach in Yucatan, might not have the Caribbean colors but sometimes it’s even better.

On sunny days you still have the Caribbean turquoise water and the tranquility of an unpopulated beach.

El Cuyo is a tiny beautiful community of locals and expatriates that shares a love for nature and tranquillity. This is a place you will easily fall in love with.

37. Hike in the Sierra de la Laguna in Baja California

Located in the southern end of Baja California, between  La Paz  and Los Cabos, the Sierra de La Laguna is a very unique region with an extension of 112,437 hectares that includes a mix of rugged mountains, canyons, and vast dry plains.

Proclaimed a protected biosphere by UNESCO in 1994, the Sierra la Laguna Biosphere Reserve constitutes an area of ​​great biodiversity, it is the only coniferous forest, palm grove, scrub, and pine-oak forest in the state and the only rain forest in the Baja California peninsula. ( Source )

This beautiful area with spectacular contrasting landscape attracts visitors from all over the world who want to explore its narrow trails to hike and camp.

The Sierra de la Laguna was the first stop of my  2 weeks road trip itinerary around Baja California , and I loved it.

38. Spend a few days in the beautiful Holbox Island

Located off the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, in the state of Quintana Roo, Holbox is one of those places that you need to see once in your life.

It’s a tiny island with a hippie vibe and a lazy lifestyle, where all you have to do is enjoy the beach and connect with nature.

There are  one-day tours from the Riviera Maya and Cancun to Holbox  if you don’t have more time to stay on the island.

However, I believe that in order to appreciate it even more and really enjoy it, you should stay at least a couple of nights and one full day. If you could make it 3 nights you will have a blast, the only risk is that you will never want to leave.

Also, I believe that most of the experience you will have in Isla Holbox will depend on the hotel you choose as well. It doesn’t have to be luxury, although it would make it extra special. Find out what are the best hotel options in Holbox and chose your favorite.

39. Spend a day in the Anthropological Museum in Mexico City

I know I should have put Mexico City among the first unique places to visit in Mexico. It’s a vibrant multicultural city, very controversial but with lots of beauty in it.

There is so much to see and do in Mexico City but I have been there about three times for short periods and every time I ended up in the Anthropological Museum. You can spend a whole day there and never finish exploring it.

It’s a collection of archeological finds that narrate the history of Mexico from the pre-hispanic era up to modern times and contains the world’s largest collection of ancient Mexican art. 

40. Visit las Grutas de Tolantongo

Las Grutas de Tolantongo is the most spectacular Mexican hot spring located in the state of Hidalgo. It’s a favorite spot for dreamy Instagram pictures and one of th e top natural wonders in Mexico .

I have finally made it there and I wrote a detailed guide to las Grutas de Tolantong o where I explain how to get there, the things to do, and other practical tips on how to enjoy the place to the fullest.

41. Explore the Mexican culture in one of the Mexican Pueblos Magicos

The Mexican Pueblos Magicos are about 133 Mexican towns proclaimed “Magic” for their charm, a profound cultural heritage, or their natural resources.

There are so many, among which San Cristobal de las Casas , considered the most Magic of the Pueblos Magicos, for its interesting culture and pretty cobblestone roads, or the spectacular Isla Mujeres , renowned for its turquoise water and white sand beaches.

There are plenty of places to visit, let me know which one did you choose.

✨ Mexico Travel Planning Guide ✨

👉 do i need travel insurance to travel to mexico.

I would do it if I were you. You never know what can happen and know that no matter what, you will be covered with any expenses will give you peace of mind, and make your travel worry-free. You can check out SafetyWing which I have used and find it affordable and comprehensive and also Travel Insurance Master w hich is great because you can insert all your information and what kind of insurance you need and their system will pull out the best insurance for your need.

🚰 Can I Drink Tap Water in Mexico?

No, you can’t! Maybe in some areas or in some homes where they have installed water filters but to be on the safe side, I would say, never drink tap water in Mexico. Carry a water bottle with you and fill it up where you find available potable water sources. Most of the hotels have those.

🚗 Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?

The short answer is: depending on where you are. Although in general if you stick to the main roads and don’t drive at night you should probably be safe. In lesser tourist areas you should probably check the local news to stay up to date. Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is easy everywhere, even at night, although I would still avoid it. I recommend Discover Cars because the site offers the option to compare prices among different car rentals and you can add their own full coverage.

Read more on my guide on Renting a car in Mexico .

📱 Will My Phone Work in Mexico?

It will probably work, especially if you have a European or US phone, but your roaming rates may be to the stars (check with your SIM provider). Even if have an affordable international rate, you will be much better off by buying a Mexican SIM Card . It’s cheap, easy to set up, and it will keep you connected with your friends, family, and, more important, google Maps so you will never get lost!

🤕 Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now?

The short answer is, yes it is. However, there are parts of Mexico that are indeed troubled and you should avoid for now, and others that are super safe and easy to travel around.

Regardless of where you are you should always use some common sense rules such as, never flaunting expensive clothing, accessories, electronics, or money and keeping a low profile.

Read more on my detailed guide on safety in Mexico . If you are traveling to a specific destination I have got you covered as well:

• Is Cancun Safe?
• Is Tulum Safe?
• Is Puerto Vallarta safe?

💉 Do I Need Any Vaccine to Travel to Mexico?

No, there is no vaccine requirement (of any kind) to travel to Mexico

🇲🇽 Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Mexico?

If you are coming from the US or Europe you don’t need a VISA to enter Mexico. Once you get in you need to fill out a form that you need to keep with you until you leave. If you don’t have it you will pay a fine. Although the tourist visa for US and European travelers used to be 6 months long which you could easily renew by leaving the country for a couple of days and going back, nowadays they have been stricter. You may be asked how you would sustain your living and other similar questions. Sometimes they even ask you to show your credit cards. It seems odd but they can do that. If you intend to stay longer than a usual couple of weeks’ vacation time, just be honest and explain your plans. If you are not from the US, check this site to see if you need a visa

💸 Where Do I Find the Best Travel Deals for Mexico? 💸

A trip to Mexico can be expensive if you love to travel with all the comforts (like I do). There are a few tricks that will help you find the best deals. Here are my tips:

👉 DON’T travel in the high season, which is Holy week, Christmas and winter in general, and August. 👉 Book months in advance to find early booking discounts 👉 Use aggregators such as Discover Cars to find price comparisons and VRBO for vacation rentals! 👉 Look for packages flights+hotels on Expedia . 👉 Check on Booking.com or Hotels.com for hotel deals

Happy travels!!

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Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

Journey To Mexico

Your Travel Guide To Mexico

9 Non-Touristy But Beautiful Cities And Towns In Mexico

Are you looking for less touristy but beautiful towns and cities in Mexico ?

One can’t possibly undervalue any city or town in Mexico , many travellers regularly overlook some of the country’s most interesting destinations.

There’s no denying that Cancun , Playa del Carmen , Tulum , and Los Cabos are a must-visit when in Mexico , but the country has much more to offer than just beaches, ancient ruins, and resorts.

RELATED READ: Lesser Known Destinations In Mexico To Avoid Crowd This Summer

Mexico is a treasure trove of hidden gems. Given the time to explore, you’ll find anything from historic cities to gorgeous unspoilt beaches to foodie hotspots.

Here’s a list of less-touristy but beautiful towns and cities in Mexico that you might want to add to your itinerary when you go there.

Things you'll find in this article

9 Less Touristy But Beautiful Cities And Towns In Mexico

1. bacalar, quintana roo, 2. san francisco de campeche, campeche, 3. guanajuato city, guanajuato, 4. la paz, baja california sur, 5. merida, yucatan, 6. san cristóbal de las casas, chiapas, 7. taxco, guerrero, 8. todos santos, baja california sur, travel tips and resources.

Bacalar is nothing like any of the popular cities on the Mexican Riviera Maya. Instead of beaches, the second-largest freshwater lake in Mexico can be found in this town in the Quintana Roo state.

At 40-kilometers-long, Bacalar Lake is also known as “the Lake of Seven Colors.”

On its south, a bewildering diversity of remarkable fossil formations can be found among the forest mangroves that surround it. Travel Instagrammers love this lake, which is why it’s becoming increasingly popular lately.

Bacalar preserves a more authentic Mexican vibe than most of the other popular tourist destinations in the area. It’s a terrific place to go if you’re interested in learning about the history and customs of the people who live there.

Every August , the vibrant Festival of San Joaquin de Bacalar, when the streets come alive with dances and amazing parades, is a significant and must-experience cultural event in the area.

Related Read:

• Famous Landmarks In Mexico
• Safest Cities To Visit In Mexico
• Best Colonial Towns In Mexico .
• Best Castles To Visit In Mexico

The Yucatan Peninsula’s western shore is home to the medieval walled city of Campeche . Baroque Spanish architecture and immaculately kept cobblestone streets grace these craggy limestone highlands.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Campeche is only two hours away from Merida , another beautiful city in Mexico .

There are few tourists and Western influences in this city, which is uncommon for a place recognised as a World Heritage Site.

Still, Campeche has a plethora of vacation-worthy attractions, including excellent seafood restaurants along its waterfront, a warm vibe thanks to its friendly Campechanos, a city square often brilliantly glow at night with stunning views of its Plaza Principale, and even a 7-kilometre-long boardwalk.

If you’re looking for a laid back city to visit or a romantic holiday in Mexico , Campeche is the place to go.

Cobblestone streets wind their way through Guanajuato’s mountainous landscape and cut tunnels through the scenery, making it an Instagram-worthy metropolis.

Still not very touristy yet rich in baroque and modernist architectural elements, this locale makes an ideal backdrop for those who love taking photos.

During the Spanish occupation, Guanajuato was a centre for silver mining.

Today, the city has become a popular destination for travel photographers thanks to its hillside landscape of multicoloured buildings and dwellings.

Guanajuato’s baroque cathedrals, especially the famed Templo de la Compania and the more restrained Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato , also dominate the city’s appearance.

The city’s small lanes can be explored by following a callejonada, where you’ll encounter wandering musicians lure crowds to the rugged urban environment.

• Best National Parks In Mexico To Visit
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Located in the southwestern portion of the state, La Paz serves as the capital and largest city of Baja California Sur.

La Paz has much to offer the adventurous visitor. Walking down the esplanade along a waterfront is a fantastic way to discover the various authentic restaurants, taverns, and cafes that the city has to offer.

The cuisine of the Baja Peninsula places a heavy emphasis on seafood, however, there is also a good amount of fusion and foreign cuisine.

Still, La Paz is an excellent base from which to explore the natural wonders of the Baja Peninsula and its environs. The island of Espiritu Santo is the most well-known of its day excursions.

Except for seals and seabirds, as well as a plethora of aquatic species, this island is completely uninhabited, save for a few beach campsites for guests who want to stay on the beach. Tours departing from La Paz to the island can be organized with relative ease.

As the cultural centre of western Yucatan , Merida attracts attention for its artsy aura. All around town, historical antiques have been converted into tourist attractions.

The streets that run through the heart of the town are lined with boutique hotels, art galleries, stores, cafes, and restaurants.

More than just a mingling of Spanish and indigenous influences may be found throughout the city. The Romanesque cathedral and the Casa de Montejo were built from the ruins of local pyramids in the classic Spanish style.

However, the town’s layout and appearance are heavily influenced by France . A great example of this is the lovely Paseo de Montejo, which is lined with magnificent Beaux-Arts houses. Take a walking tour of Merida’s historic centre to experience all that the city has to offer.

• Best Waterfalls In Mexico To Visit
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San Cristóbal de las Casas, a town in Chiapas , has been named a Pueblo Magico, or Magic Town. San Cristobal serves as the centre for the wonderful indigenous populations who live in the region’s mountain settlements.

Colonial architecture is what makes San Cristobal de las Casas so beautiful. The historic core of the town is a compact and pedestrian area full of stunning churches, cobblestone lanes, and pastel-coloured low-rise buildings.

Additionally, the city houses the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya, where you can examine both traditional indigenous textiles as well as more contemporary examples.

Mountain biking, horseback riding, and zip-lining are just a few of the options available if you’re adventurous. A visit to Sumidero Canyon, El Chiflon Waterfalls , or Lagunas de Montebello National Park, among others, is also well worth it.

Taxco de Alarcon, a mountain village in Guerrero , is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets. An easy drive south of Mexico City, this unspoilt destination is still mostly unknown. It’s worth deviating from the usual tourist path to see.

As far as Mexican cities go, this is one of the most distinctive. You wouldn’t expect to find stacks of Mediterranean-style structures in Mexico, but that’s exactly what you’ll find in this “city of white” constructed into the mountainside.

If you’re looking for an authentic Mexican vacation, Taxco is your best bet. Slopes and mountains abound, making it visually appealing from virtually every vantage point.

In terms of taking Instagram-worthy photos, there’s no better place than Taxco, Mexico.

If you are travelling to Mexico soon, do not rule out this city just because it was not included in the list of Mexico’s most popular places.

Todos Santos, an hour’s drive from Cabo San Lucas, is one of Baja’s supreme picturesque towns. Its population is a strange mix of New Age spiritualists, surfers, artists, and fishermen. It also has a world-class gastronomy culture, despite avoiding the heavy tourism of other cities in the region.

This one-of-a-kind, artsy desert oasis, evocative of Taos, New Mexico is nestled among historic mango and palm plantations.

They offer spectacular vistas of powdered white sands and the bright Pacific. The city’s rich history, centuries-old traditions, and welcoming hospitality, combined with modern comforts, make Todos Santos an ideal Mexican getaway.

9. Zacatecas City, Zacatecas

The Colonial town of Zacatecas is Mexico’ s second-highest city at 8,100 feet above sea level. A visit here allows travellers to go back in time through its stunning 18th-century architecture.

These include many civil and religious buildings from the colonial period, such as the cathedral, which dominates the centre of town.

These buildings are considered one of the most beautiful examples of Churrigueresque architecture in the country, among other things.

Zacatecas has long been admired for the abundance of silver and other mineral reserves found in the region. The city also organizes the well-known Holy Week Cultural Festival, which attracts more than 50 dancers and other performers from around the world.

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Hola! Que tal? I'm Christine, a Filipina but in love with Mexico. I used to live in Central America and Mexico is my favorite. Love tacos, tequila, and margarita.

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Home / Best Places To Visit In Mexico That You’ve Never Heard Of

Best Places To Visit In Mexico That You’ve Never Heard Of

When you think about Mexico and travelling there, what springs to mind? Beach resorts, Chichen Itza, Playa del Carmen, Cancun, cenotes? Believe me, there’s much more than these places (and much more to the Yucatán) in this huge country. You should definitely get out of the beach resort and experience more of the country. If you’re looking for things to do in Mexico, beyond your beach resort, the country has lots to offer. There are more ruins, more beaches, lots of history and exciting colectivo journeys. In this post, I’ll tell you about some beautiful, historic and exciting places you can visit in Mexico that you’ve probably never heard of.

These unknown places are split up into four categories: Adventure; Nature; History and Culture; Cities. So no matter what you’re into, you’ll be able to explore some of the unique places in Mexico. Get off the beaten path and see more of Mexico!

Places To Visit In Mexico For Adventurers That You’ve Never Heard Of

If you have an adventurous streak, Mexico has plenty of tourist attractions for you. Hiking, rafting, rock climbing. There’s so much to do. Here are my top five places to visit in Mexico for the adventurous that you’ve never heard of:

The tiny village of Jalcomulco is in the state of Veracruz and is an amazing place to visit. This sleepy town might not seem adventurous at first glance, but, if you ask me, it is Mexico’s answer to Queenstown (or at least has the potential to be). The town is becoming a kind of eco-resort and is generally a beautiful place away from the hustle and bustle.

In this town, there are several adventure sports companies and plenty of adventures to be had. Located on the banks of Río de los Pescados, it’s a prime spot for white water rafting, canyoning, zip lines, rappelling, mountain biking and horse riding.

There is no public transport to this tiny town. Instead, you need to hire a taxi from the city of Xalapa.

You can read about my adventure in Jalcomulco in this post .

Go rafting in Jalcomulco with Get Your Guide .

Rafting On Río de los Pescados, In Jalcomulco

One of the Seven Natural Wonders Of The World , the volcano Paricutín is an incredible place to visit.

In 1943 a farmer in the fields noticed the earth started to rumble and smoke. Shortly, the ground cracked and lava began to flow. Over the next years, the volcano rose and destroyed the town of Paricutín, as well as other small hamlets. This volcano was active for about eight years and produced a cone of about 400m high.

This is the youngest volcano in the world and the only volcano where humans have witnessed the entire life cycle.

Found in the state of Michoacán, the nearest city is Uruapan. But to see the volcano and hike it, you will need to set aside a full day from here. Leave the city early and catch a bus to Angahuan, which is the nearest town, from here it’s easy to find a guide. You have to take a horse to the base of the cinder cone, over lava fields. Once you reach the cone you can scramble up. Some areas are still hot and you can hear the rocks hiss and see the steam.

Seeing Paricutín is a long day, a horse ride and a scramble to the top. For the less adventurous, you can just take a horse to the ruined church of San Juan Parangaricuitiro. This ruined church looks like a dragon’s layer and offers great views of Paricutín volcano.

The Crater Of Paricutin Volcano

Santiago Apoala

Another place to hike, Santiago Apoala is a tiny rural village in the Sierra Mixteca. Located about 60 miles (98 km) from Oaxaca, it is a truly wild place, from which you can hike, bike and swim.

The valley where this village is found is beautiful. You can hike through the canyon and find beautiful waterfalls and lagoons to swim in.

Most trails are poorly marked, so it’s best to go with a guide when exploring this area. It is also extremely isolated, so it’s a great way to get away from the crowds. Due to its isolation, it’s also hard to get to, the easiest way is with a tour.

You can read about my adventure to this village and the hikes around the area in this post .

Views Of The Sierra Mixteca From Santiago Apoala

Whether you have never surfed before, or have surfed before, San Blas, in the Nayarit state, is a hidden gem. There is a beach in the town (playa El Borrego) where you can have lessons or rent a board from Stoners Surf Camp.

Matanchén, the bay where San Blas is found, has plenty of other beaches to choose from for their surf. You can catch buses to these beaches from San Blas. One of these surfing spots, Playa Las Islitas is in the Guinness Book of World Records due to having the longest surfable wave , which was 1,700m.

The town of San Blas makes a great base for surfing. Although the season starts in May, it is in September or October that the south swell begins to bring the long rides. To get to this laid back surfers town you can catch a bus from Puerto Vallarta.

The Beach At San Blas

Peña De Bernal

A 433m-high volcanic rock that towers over the town of the same name, Peña De Bernal is one of the tallest monoliths in the world and considered one of the 13 Wonders of Mexico. In the state of Querétaro, it is popular with Mexican tourists, but still mainly unheard of for English-speakers. Even with Mexican tourists, it is only busy at weekends and bank holidays.

As a day trip from Querétaro city, visiting this monolith is a great adventure. Simply catch a bus from Querétaro to Bernal. You can easily climb two-thirds of the way up the monolith, the path is easy to follow. But to get to the top, you must be more adventurous. Only appropriately equipped rock climbers can reach the top of Peña De Bernal and enjoy views from the very top.

Check out tours to Peña De Bernal .

Peña De Bernal From The Town

Places To Visit In Mexico For Nature Lovers That You’ve Never Heard Of

Mexico has its fair share of beautiful natural locations. The country is huge and contains several ecosystems. There are beaches, mountains, jungles, lagoons and mangroves. And that’s before we start on the wildlife of Mexico. So here are my five favourite natural destinations, which are among the most beautiful places, to visit in Mexico:

Lake Bacalar

Although this destination is becoming a little popular, for now, it is still off the beaten path. Lake Bacalar is a very long and narrow lake in the state of Quintana Roo. It is about 42km long, but only 2km wide, it is also the second-largest lake in Mexico.

Lake Bacalar is a beautiful blue colour, due to its limestone bed. The blue of the water is different shades in different areas, due to depth, giving the lake its other name of the Lagoon of Seven Colours.

Another point of interest that makes Lake Bacalar a great destination in Mexico for nature lovers, is the stromatolites . These are only found in a few locations and are supposedly the oldest life on the planet. Bacalar has a huge population of these stromatolites.

Bacalar is easily reached by bus from Chetumal in the south and most towns in the North, such as Tulum and Cancun. Once at the lake there are plenty of places to swim or even kayak to explore further.

I explored Bacalar from Chetumal, you can read about that adventure in this post .

You can explore Bacalar with Get Your Guide .

Cenote Negro On lake Bacalar

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, found in Quintana Roo state, is an absolutely stunning place to visit. Its name means “the planet where the sky is born”, and it’s not hard to see why it has such a poetic name.

Discover my favourite UNESCO Sites in Mexico

The reserve is one of the largest protected areas in Mexico, covering roughly 1.3 million acres. A sparsely populated area along the coast, the reserve contains all three of the principal ecosystems of the Yucatán. Here you will find tropical forests, marshes and mangroves, and a large marine environment intersected by a barrier reef. All this is home to many plants and animals, there are over 300 species of birds to be spotted here. Not only that, but the beaches in the reserve provide nesting grounds for four endangered marine turtles. Extremely rare West Indian manatees can also be found in the inlets. If you want some wildlife spotting, Sian Ka’an makes a good choice.

You can reach Sian Ka’an from Tulum. You can do this by colectivo, though it is much easier to go with a tour company.

Find a tour with Get Your Guide and find accommodation in nearby Tulum with HostelWorld .

Pelican At Sian Ka’an

If beautiful beaches are your thing, Mazunte makes a great choice. This tiny village in Oaxaca state has its own pristine beach and is an extremely peaceful area.

One thing you must do here is watch the sunset from Punta Cometa. This point is the rocky headland next to the beach and is the southernmost point in Oaxaca.

When it comes to nature, Mazunte has a bit of a dark past that it is now making up for. Mazunte in Náhuatl (Maxonteita) means “please com here and spawn”, which it gets due to the Golfina turtles that breed here. In its past, this sleepy village the site of a horrific turtle industry and abattoir. Luckily, in 1990, the Mexican government pretty much banned this industry overnight (thanks to international pressure). So now Mazunte is a reserve and long-term ecotourism projects are being encouraged.

In Mazunte you will also find Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga. This centre has an aquarium with turtles and is also a turtle research centre. The proceeds of this centre go towards conservation efforts.

Mazunte is a little difficult to get to. There are colectivos from Oaxaca city (but it is a very long drive over the mountains) and Puerto Escondido.

You can visit the Mexican Turtle Centre from Puerto Escondido on this tour . Or if you want to stay in Mazunte (which I recommend), find somewhere to stay with HostelWorld .

The View Of Mazunte From Punta Cometa

Laguna Ojo De Liebra

“Hare eye lagoon” in English, Laguna Ojo de Liebra is a coastal lagoon in the state of Baja Californa Sur and is part of the UNESCO Whale Sanctuary of El Vizcaino.

In this lagoon, grey whales come to overwinter and breed. During the season you can go out and watch these whales. Technically, the boats aren’t meant to get too close to whales, but from personal experience, the whales (especially the calves) are extremely curious and will come right up to the boat once the engines are turned off.

Learn about the grey whales in my video .

The lagoon is not just important for grey whales though. You can also spot the harbour seal, California sea lion, northern elephant seal and the blue whale. Four endangered turtles also use this lagoon as a breeding site.

You can only get out onto the lagoon with a tour. Tours can be found from Guerrero Negro (I highly recommend Mario’s Tours ).

The Grey Whale Calves Get Really Close In Laguna Ojo de Liebra

Punta Mosquito

Isla Holbox is not an island, but a long peninsula. With just one small street and virtually no cars, visiting is like stepping back in time. Holbox is in the Quintana Roo state and is known for its laid back vibes, beautiful beaches and whale shark season. But my favourite outing was to Punta Mosquito.

On Isla Holbox, you can rent a bike and head out to Punta Mosquito, which is north of the village. To get there you have to cross a sandbar that goes through the ocean, so be mindful of the tides or you might end up swimming back. In this area, you will find pristine white sands and wildlife. There are flamingo flocks and horseshoe crabs.

Isla Holbox is reached by ferry from Chiquilá, you can easily get a bus from Cancun to this village.

Check out tours to Isla Holbox on Get Your Guide . Or, if you have more time and want to stay, check out accommodation on HostelWorld .

Flamingos At Punta Mosquito

Cultural And Historical Places In Mexico To Visit That You’ve Never Heard Of

As far as history and culture go, Mexico is a great place to visit. Ancient civilisations and their ruins, a culture that has adapted into the Christian traditions of the Spanish that came over. The native people have managed to keep many of their traditions, the cultures and languages are still very much alive today. Here are my favourite historic and cultural Mexican destinations:

One of the most out-of-the-way places I went to, Las Pozas, or the Surreal Garden of Edward James, is found in the tiny town of Xilitla, in the state of San Luis Potosí. Sprawled in the foothills of the Sierra Gorda and hemmed in by limestone cliffs, it is a dramatic location and where an eccentric English man created a jungle garden.

Sir Edward James rubbed shoulders with many surrealists in Europe, befriending Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso. After spending time in Europe with these surrealists, he moved to the USA. Later he went south of the border and fell in love with Xilitla, where he moved to in the 1940s.

Sir Edward James spent the 1960s and 1970s creating Las Pozas, which is full of weird and wonderful statues in the jungle gardens. Nine pools of a jungle river cascade through the gardens where you can find surreal sculptures such as the “House With Three Stories That Might Be Five”.

The garden was never actually completed, as it was constantly being developed and redesigned. Sir Edward James died in 1984, leaving his estate to the Gastelum family.

As I have mentioned, Xilitla is a difficult place to get to, but it is possible. The easiest way is to drive yourself, but public transport is still available from Mexico City and Querérato. Though be aware, it is a long and winding road through the Sierra Gorda.

Find accommodation in Xilitla with HostelWorld .

Sculpture And Pool In Las Pozas

When you think of Mexican traditions, the one that springs to mind is normally the Day Of The Dead (Dia De Muertos). This festival originated in Oaxaca, Michoacan and Jalisco states, and it is only after a certain James Bond film that the celebrations were really taken up throughout the country (including where the parade is seen in the film, Mexico City).

Patzcuaro, in the state of Jalisco, is one of the places that you can still see this festival in its original form. The town has a parade and markets that sell Calaveras, but you want to get out to the island of Janitzio on the lake of Patzcuaro.

On this island, there is one small graveyard. The locals canoe over to the island in the early evening, with a single candle at the front of the canoe. They then gather in the graveyard to make offerings and staying by the sides of their ancestors’ graves throughout the night. The graveyard is a riot of orange, due to the marigolds and candles. Go into the graveyard and sit quietly for a true taste of Dia de Muertes.

You can read more about Dia De Muertes on the island of Janitzio in this post .

To get to Patzcuaro, and Janitzio, simply take a bus from Mexico City.

The Graveyard On Janitzio Is A Riot Of Orange On Day Of The Dead

The ruins of Calakmul are part of the UNESCO site of the Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul. Found in the state of Campeche, these ruins are hidden deep in the jungle and are thought to be the largest archaeological site in Mesoamerica. Calakmul even has the largest Mayan structure in existence; the base of the Great Pyramid is almost 5 acres.

The ancient city of Calakmul is believed to have been one of the most powerful in the Mayan lowlands. Part of the Kaan Dynasty, it is likely that this city was the capital. The ruins themselves were only discovered in 1931, due to the remote location, and excavations began in the 1980s.

Even though it was an important city, these ruins aren’t busy. They’re hard to get to, so most people stick with Chichen Itza instead. Personally, I found Calakmul much more impressive!

To get to Calakmul you either need to rent a car or go on a tour. The ruins are hidden deep in the jungle, near the Guatemalan border, and are hours from any city.

You can read more about Calakmul in this post .

Explore Calakmul on this tour . You can also find accommodation in Chetumal, which makes a great base to visit the ruins from, on HostelWorld .

Calakmul Ruins

Some more ruins that are off the beaten path, El Tajín ruins are found in the state of Veracruz and became the most important centre in north-east Mesoamerica after the fall of the Teotihuacan Empire. These ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to there cultural importance and architecture. The site is also the most impressive along the Gulf Coast.

In this site, you will find numerous substantial structures. The most famous of which is Pirámide de los Nichos, or Pyramid of Niches. This pyramid is unique and one of the most extraordinary Mexican ruins. Rising to about 20m in six receding tiers, each face has regular niches. There are 365 in total. Although the reason for the niches is unknown, there are plenty of theories. One thing is certain, they are not just for decoration.

No one actually knows who built this city. It could have been the Huastecs, the Totonacs, or another group. The name is thought to mean “City of the Thunder God” and there is a belief that the twelve thunderstorm deities still inhabit the ruins.

Getting to El Tajín is fairly straightforward. You can catch a bus from the town of Papantla to the ruins.

You may also like my Best Archeological Sites In Mexico

Search tours to El Tajín on Get Your Guide .

Pirámide de los Nichos In El Tajin

Mexcaltitán

For a real remote location, Mexcaltitán has a lot of history. In the state of Nayarit, to the north of San Blas is the islet of Mexcaltitán. This Náhautl name translates as “House of the Mexicans” and is a candidate for the legendary homeland of the Aztecs, Aztlán. It was from here that a tribe left to begin their journey which saw them settle in what is now Mexico City, after seeing an eagle eating a snake on a cactus.

There’ not much on the island, but it is still worth visiting if you like history, legends and culture. There are only a few inhabitants, who are mainly shrimp farmers, in the area. The island also has a tiny museum that goes through the theory of it being the Aztec homeland.

You can only get to this island from Santiago Ixcuintla, you’ll need to get a taxi from here to La Batanga. Then it’s a boat ride out to the island. Personally, I went from San Blas (which involved a bus to Santiago Ixcuitla, then a taxi).

Mexcaltitán Is A Contender For The Legendary Homeland Of The Aztecs

Cities To Visit In Mexico That You’ve Never Heard Of

You can’t get off the beaten track in Mexico without exploring some of the lesser-visited cities. There are some really beautiful places, with lots of history, impressive buildings, enchanting myths and beautiful views. Here are my five cities and towns that you’ve probably never heard of:

The city of Campeche is the capital of the state of Campeche and, for some reason, doesn’t draw many tourists.

A UNESCO site , this city is one of Mexico’s finest colonial cities. The historic centre of the city is still relatively intact, surrounded by defensive walls and fortress.

The archaeological museum holds two jades masks from Calakmul, which are well worth seeing, especially if you have been, or plan to go, to the ruins themselves. There is also the city museum that tells you of the city’s history as a port town and the pirates that raided it.

Only two sections of the walls are intact, but you can climb these. From the walls, you get some good views of the historic centre of Campeche.

Campeche is well worth a visit due to it’s UNESCO status, the archaeological museum, colonial buildings, old walls, history of pirates and the sea view. You can catch a bus to this city from most other cities on the Yucatán Peninsula and other destinations such as Palenque.

Explore Campeche with Get Your Guide or find accommodation on HostelWorld .

Colourful Colonial Buildings Of Campeche

One of my favourite cities in Mexico was Guanajuato, also in the state of Guanajuato. This city was once the wealthiest cities in Mexico, due to its mines flowing with gold and silver.

Guanajuato is wedged within a narrow ravine, so you come upon this city very suddenly. It is a beautiful city, once again colonial. The city is very protective of its colonial building, no modern building will be found, nor traffic lights or neon signs. Guanajuato also has UNSECO status.

Although the city is very much a student city, don’t let that put you off. In fact, the students act as minstrel guides through the streets on walking tours (Spanish only though). There is a wealth of museums in this colonial city, from Don Quixote, the city museum and Diego Rivera. It is a historic city with lots to do.

Guanajuato also has its own version of Romeo and Juliet, with the legend of the kiss at Callejón del Beso. If lovers kiss on the third step (which is handily painted), they are granted seven years of happiness.

You can reach Guanajuato by bus from many big cities in Central Mexico and the surrounding areas. Buses go to this city from Guadalajara, Mexico City and Querétaro. The central bus station is actually a little out of the city, so you need to take a local bus to the centre.

You can explore Guanajuato on a day trip with this tour . Or find somewhere to stay with HostelWorld .

View Of Guanajuato

In the Yucatán state, Valladolid is often only visited as it’s close to Chichén Itzá, and so you can get to the ruins from here early and beat the crowds. However, it is well worth visiting purely for the city itself.

Although the city was damaged during the Caste Wars, it still has a colonial feel. Valladolid is known as the rural capital od the Yucatán state, as it caters to the local farmers and ranchers. The city is also known as a great place to sample traditional Yucatán food.

One thing that makes this city really stand out is the cenote in the city itself. Cenote Zací is a great place for a swim and a cool off from the heat. The cenote is filled with catfish and is an unusual feature in a city.

Buses from other cities in the Yucatán Peninsula often stop off at Valladolid, so it is easy to get to.

Check out accommodation in Valladolid with HostelWorld .

Valladolid Has A Cenote In The City

The capital of Veracruz, Xalapa is a big, relatively modern city. It is busy with traffic, and so doesn’t have the calm of other Mexican off-the-beaten-path cities, but is well worth visiting.

This city is set in the countryside, sprawling across a hillside below a volcanic peak. It is a cultural centre and even hosts a classical and traditional music festival in June, a jazz gathering in August and a literary festival in September.

The archaeological museum here is a must, which is arguably second only to the archaeological museum in Mexico City, but without the crowds. Xalapa is also renown for its parks, which display tropical plants. These parks offer great picnic spots not far from the city centre.

But there is another draw to this city; it makes a great base for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers. As Xalapa is close to a number of rivers that cascade down the sierra, there are some spectacular waterfalls and some of Mexico’s finest whitewater rafting nearby (such as in Jalcomulco).

Xalapa can be reached by bus from many cities in Veracruz, such as Veracruz city. You can also reach this city from Mexico City.

Day trips to Xalapa from Veracruz are available on Get Your Guide . Or find accommodation with HostelWorld .

Paseo los Lagos (Park Of Lakes) In Xalapa

The capital of the state of Durango is, you guessed it, Durango city. This city is found with a small detour from the central corridor that runs between Mexico City and the US border. But it is well worth the diversion, as it is one of the prettiest cities en route.

Another colonial city, Durango has a number of historic buildings and museums that are worth visiting. There is Paseo Túnel de Minería, which commemorates the city’s mining heritage. The tunnel has mining exhibits and runs below the streets of Durango. Another place worth visiting is Palacio de Zambrano, which now houses the Museo General Francisco Villa. Bold murals in this building show the history of the state.

Another reason to visit this city is its link to the old Wild West films, in particular those of John Wayne. This actor came to the city in the 1960s and filmed many westerns here. And so, just outside of the city, you can visit the old studios.

Durango is quite a journey from many cities, making it a bit difficult to get to. But you can catch a bus from Chihuahua, Monterrey, Mazatlán and Mexico City, just be ready for a long bus journey.

Find somewhere to stay in Durango with HostelWorld .

Murals In Palacio De Zambrano Durango

Getting off the beaten track in Mexico can reward you with some unique places to visit. It is worth getting off the well-trodden path and the country has a lot to offer. From beautiful natural places to historic cities. Some are not the easiest to get to, but well worth the effort. Mexico tourist attractions go way beyond Cancun and Chichén Itzá. When it comes to finding the best places to visit in Mexico, you should try to visit some of these lesser-known destinations.

Have you been to any of these Mexico destinations? Let me know in the comments below!

18 Comments

Wow! These look amazing. The pyramids were definitely on my list when I eventually visit Mexico but I’ve got lots more ideas now. I’d never heard of the volcano at Paricutín and the view of Guanajuato is incredible! I think Mexico just moved up in my list of priorities.

There’s so much to see in Mexico! It’s a shame so many people stick to just the hot tourist spots of the Yucatan, there is so much more to the country. I hope you manage to explore the country after the pandemic! Let me know how you get on 🙂

Wow, it,s a complete review of Mexico make me interested to put Mexico in my list to go.

Glad you enjoyed my post 🙂 I hope you make it over to Mexico and have a great time!

Lots of inspiration for future trips here!

Hope you manage to make some trips to these places 🙂

These places all look amazing to visit. Thanks for the great tips!

Glad you found the post useful. Hope you make it to some of these!

There are sooo many places in Mexico I want to go, but I’ve never been in the country at all! Thanks for making my list longer 😉

Glad you enjoyed the post 🙂 I hope you make it to Mexico one day, you’ll have to let me know if you make it to any of these places and which was your favourite!

These are fun spots! I could barely move past Laguna Ojo de Liebra. I think if I found myself at a whale nursery I would have never left. Maybe just a quick trip to Punta Mosquito to see the flamingos 🙂

Haha! I really didn’t want to leave Laguna Ojo de Liebra! The weather wasn’t so great when I was there, but that didn’t take anything from the experience. I would love to go back and spend some more time there. Hope you make it there one day!

Wow, I had no idea there was so much variety off the beaten track in Mexico. I love how you’ve separated this out into different sections too. I’m definitely keen to try some of those adventurous suggestions!

So glad you enjoyed the post! There’s definitely more to Mexico than Cancun and Playa del Carmen!

There are many hidden places around the world that are cheap and beautiful.

Thank you for this post and your tips, I’m planning for mexico next year, is it really safe?

I would definitely say that Mexico is safe. It’s just like anywhere, use the precautions you normally would when travelling. So don’t carry round loads of expensive stuff, don’t go into areas that look dodgy etc. Obviously, Mexico City is known for pickpockets, just like any other big city. The only place I felt uncomfortable was Acapulco, but only after dark. And I was advised not to go to Monterey. So, as long as you do your research on a place and don’t do anything silly when there, you should be as safe as most places that you travel. I hope you enjoy your time there!

Wow! These look amazing. The pyramids were definitely on my list when I eventually visit Mexico but I’ve got lots more ideas now.

Hi Jolly, glad you liked the post! I hope you get to Mexico and manage to see lots! There’s so much to see there!

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The Best Time to Book a Flight for Domestic, International, and Summer Travel

Here are our best tips for booking travel in 2024 and beyond.

When to Book Flights for Domestic Travel

When to book flights for international travel, when to book flights for holiday 2024 travel, when to book flights for summer 2025 travel.

Buying plane tickets is something of an art form. Ideally, you want to secure your spot months in advance to avoid the inevitable price spike as your travel dates get closer. But sometimes the best time to book a flight also depends on the destination and whether it's domestic or abroad. The trends are always changing, but experts say the sweet spot for booking domestic flights is 28 days, or 60 days for international flights.

Flights generally open for booking about a year ahead of time, and the airfare will change often between then and takeoff. Although you can book just a couple of weeks before the departure date in some cases, prices are likely to be astronomical. In other cases, when you want to go somewhere popular or during a big travel weekend, flights could fill up faster than normal. Our advice: Track flight prices on Google Flights or Hopper as early as possible so you can keep an eye on cost fluctuations. Read on for more advice about when to book flights from the pros.

According to Expedia's 2024 Air Travel Hacks report , you should aim to book 28 days before your domestic flight. "Doing so can save travelers up to 24 percent compared to those who wait until the last minute, from zero to six days out," Expedia travel expert Christie Hudson tells Travel + Leisure.

For domestic trips, pricing is elevated when tickets are first released, about a year before the flight. Those prices will slowly creep downward, all the way to their lowest point in the prime booking window, after which you'll likely see a huge increase in cost for last-minute travel.

Meet the Expert

Christie Hudson is a travel expert at top booking site Expedia.

You're better off booking earlier rather than later for international travel, but the Expedia report says ideally no more than four months before your desired departure date. The sweet spot is around 60 days. "This is a big change from 2022 data, which showed the cheapest fares were secured when travelers booked four to six months out." Hudson says. "2023 data revealed that people who booked that far in advance actually paid more on average." The report says the least expensive day of the week to book is Sunday and the most expensive is Friday, for both domestic and international travel.

The real trick to finding good deals on international airfare is to avoid booking your travel for peak times, which include summer and major holidays (don't forget — that includes holidays in your destination, too).

Around the winter holidays is the priciest time to travel, says Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going. "Your best bet is to remember the Goldilocks zones: look to book between three to seven months ahead for domestic travel and four to 10 months ahead for international travel."

Hudson advises that at the very latest, your holiday travel should be booked by mid-October. "But the biggest holiday travel savings actually come from choosing the right dates," she says. "Avoiding the busiest days like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Friday and Saturday before Christmas will yield major savings."

Katy Nastro is a travel expert at Going, a website that finds flight deals to more than 900 destinations around the world.

Track flights and book your holiday tickets as soon as you find a decent deal, but make sure to book a fare that will give you a credit if you cancel (generally speaking, that means don't book basic economy). That way, if prices drop between the time of booking and your travel dates, you can cancel your original ticket and use the credit to book the cheaper fare. The only downside is you'll still have some remaining credit, but you can then use it to treat yourself to a future flight. Just don't let that credit expire.

Summer is traditionally one of the most popular times of the year to travel, which means it can be tough to find a good deal on airfare. Ideally, you should book flights for summer travel as soon as possible, preferably at least six months in advance.

"The best time to book for peak season is … the opposite season," Nastro says. "While most of us are scrambling to focus on our winter holiday plans, we should also keep our eyes open for some great summer fares."

She notes that the booking window for peak season ranges between three and seven months for domestic flights and four to 10 months for international trips. "And if you do book something, keep that flight alert on," says Nastro. "If it drops again, depending on your ticket type, you can call to rebook and get a refund or travel credit back with the difference. Most airlines don't charge for change fees on main economy tickets, meaning you won't be spending more to save."

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