Where to go in Mexico
By Morgan CarpenterÂ
Visit Mexico to explore tropical islands, volcanic cities, and ancient ruins. This massive country is nearly three times the size of Texas and has 31 states plus Mexico City.
Weâll focus on four regions:
- El Norte, from Baja California Sur to Chihuahua and Monterrey
- El Centro, with Mexico City, Puebla, and the colonial towns of the BajĂo
- El PacĂfico, the Pacific coast from Jalisco and Nayarit to the Oaxaca beaches
- El Sur, our most visited region, with Oaxaca City, Chiapas, and the YucatĂĄn Peninsula
Mexico has wildly diverse geography. Up north, desert landscapes meet the sea. The central regions rest on a high-altitude plateau. Farther south, the YucatĂĄn Peninsula is dotted with cenotes. Mexicoâs Indigenous and colonial roots are visible in every region.Â
With so much to see, how do you choose which regions of Mexico to visit?
For your first trip, head to Mexico City or the Riviera Maya. For food, visit Mexicoâs culinary capital: Oaxaca. To prioritize beach time, check out Quintana Roo or Riviera Nayarit. For archaeology and history, visit the YucatĂĄn.
To get between regions, travelers can take flights or first-class buses. However, many of the best places are beyond transport links. A private transfer unlocks remote locations and small towns. For instance, Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende is our second-busiest route between towns and has no direct train.
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How to choose where to go
First-time visitor
See bustling Mexico City and wander ancient Teotihuacan. Head to the Riviera Maya for beaches and explore Chichén Itzå.
Coasts and beaches
Relax in the surf town of Sayulita or find upscale experiences in Punta Mita. Swim in Bacalar lagoon.
Food and drink
Try moles and mezcal in Oaxaca. Head to Puebla for mole poblano. Try richly seasoned pork dishes in MĂ©rida.
History and archaeology
Head north of Mexico City for iconic Teotihuacan. In Yucatån, visit Chichén Itzå or Uxmal. In Oaxaca state, visit Monte Albån.
Nature and wildlife
Watch blue whales off the coast of Loreto in the late winter, or spot humpbacks in Los Cabos. Explore YucatĂĄnâs tropical forests.
Adventure
Snorkel in cenotes near Tulum. Swim with whale sharks in La Paz. Hike Hierve el Agua.
Avoiding crowds
Visit relaxed Bacalar instead of Tulum. Head to Querétaro over San Miguel de Allende for its history and wine culture.
Slow travel
Enjoy a slower pace of life in Mazunte (Oaxaca). Visit Todos Santos in Baja California Sur. Spend time in ancient TepoztlĂĄn.
Baja and the North
See rugged deserts clash with the wild Pacific and Sea of Cortez in northern Mexico. Bajaâs Transpeninsular Highway, the regionâs spine, links the main cities across vast landscapes. On the road, youâll pass mountains, sea views, and sun-baked stretches of the Sonoran Desert. Today, travelers will find sprawling natural beauty and hearty cuisine centered on beef, tortillas, and seafood. Major hubs are spread out, and public transport can be infrequent, so itâs best explored by private car.
Where to go
Prioritize the inland north or the Sea of Cortez side of Baja. Inland, youâll find lively Monterrey and nearby canyon adventures. By the sea, you can immerse yourself in the rhythms of the sea and spot local wildlife.
Prioritize the inland north or the Sea of Cortez side of Baja. Inland, youâll find lively Monterrey and nearby canyon adventures. By the sea, you can immerse yourself in the rhythms of the sea and spot local wildlife.
Los Cabos
Stay in energetic Cabo San Lucas for its resorts and nightlife, or head to quiet San José del Cabo for a laid-back break.
- Boat to El Arco and Playa del Amor
- Go whale watching from December to April
- Enjoy San JosĂ© del Caboâs Thursday art walks from November to June
- Snorkel in Chileno (for families) or Santa MarĂa Bay (more secluded)
- Try marlin fishing with a guided boat trip
- Sample Baja-style fish tacos with local catch
La Paz
Explore Baja California Surâs capital, soak up local life, and enjoy unmatched access to wildlife.Â
- Swim in the calm waters of Playa Balandra; see the âMushroom Rockâ
- Boat to EspĂritu Santo and watch the sea lions at Los Islotes
- See whale sharks up close November to April (peak February-March)
- Stroll the MalecĂłn de La Paz at sunset
- Try chocolate clams: brown smooth-shell clams are usually served raw
Todos Santos
Enjoy slow travel in this artistic surf town on the Pacific coast.
- Wander art galleries around the mission church
- Take surf lessons at Cerritos
- Watch more advanced surfers navigate the swells at San Pedrito
- See sea turtles hatch between December and March
- Try coconut shrimp, rich chicken mole dishes, or raw oysters
Loreto
Unwind in quiet Loreto, the perfect place to spot marine life and learn about mission history.
- Boat to Isla Coronado for sea lions, snorkeling, and volcanic hikes
- Take a guided tour to BahĂa de Loreto National Park for marine life
- See MisiĂłn de Loreto, founded in 1697 and Bajaâs first lasting mission
- Stroll the waterfront promenade for sunset views
- Try Tacos de Marlin, grilled or smoked marlin tacos
Monterrey
Explore modern, industrial Monterrey at the foot of the Sierra Madre Oriental.
- Visit the Parque Fundidora, a former steel foundry
- Stroll the Paseo Santa LucĂa riverwalk
- Tour the MARCO contemporary art museum
- Hike the Cerro de la Silla, the saddle-shaped peak
- Enjoy panoramic views minus the hike at the Bishopâs Palace
Chihuahua
Stay in Chihuahua City for its colonial architecture, hearty ranch food, and access to the Sierra Tarahumara.
- Learn about the Mexican Revolution in Pancho Villaâs former home
- See the grand baroque cathedral
- Visit the Palacio de Gobierno murals
- Head to Parque Nacional Cumbres de Majalca for outdoor adventures
- Try sotol liquor, made from wild local Dasylirion plants
Mexico City and El BajĂo
Explore the central highlands, a plateau ringed by volcanoes. Mexico City sits high at 7,350 feet (2,240 m). Nearby, ancient Mesoamerican temples stand tall in Teotihuacan. BajĂoâs historic silver mining towns funded ornate Baroque churches. Now, travelers can base themselves in Mexico City and take day trips to its surrounding colonial cities and ancient ruins. Enjoy QuerĂ©taro wine and cheese, mole poblano, and al pastor.
Where to go
Stick to Mexico City as a base, and use a private car service to explore other towns as day trips. Or, make your whole trip a road trip through colonial towns around the high plateau. First-time visitors will enjoy the former; return visitors should try the latter.
Stick to Mexico City as a base, and use a private car service to explore other towns as day trips. Or, make your whole trip a road trip through colonial towns around the high plateau. First-time visitors will enjoy the former; return visitors should try the latter.
Mexico City
Explore central Mexico City for deep history, traditional food, and artistic heritage.Â
- Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum in CoyoacĂĄn
- See the Sun Stone at the Anthropology Museum
- Visit Templo Mayor and ZĂłcalo in ancient Tenochtitlan
- Ride colorful trajineras (painted boats) in Xochimilco
- Try taco al pastor in Condesa or Roma
San Miguel de Allende
Enjoy walkable, romantic San Miguel de Allende, a design-focused town perfect for slow travel.
- See the fairytale pink stone church, Parroquia de San Miguel ArcĂĄngel
- Tour the FĂĄbrica La Aurora, an art center in a former textile mill
- Wander the sprawling botanical garden, El Charco del Ingenio
- Sip on wine produced in the surrounding valley
- Enjoy rooftop dining at sunset; try inventive al pastor croquettes
Guanajuato
See this vibrant UNESCO-recognized town known for its rainbow houses, impressive tunnel network, and lively cultural scene.
- Drive along the maze of tunnels, originally built to control flooding
- Visit the âAlley of the Kiss,â a narrow alley with romantic local lore
- Take the funicular to the El PĂpila Monument for panoramic views
- Admire the opulent Teatro JuĂĄrez
- Try enchiladas mineras, born from the regionâs mining history
Querétaro
Wander Querétaro, admire its UNESCO-recognized colonial center, and enjoy access to the Sierra Gorda mountains.
- See the 74 pink arches of the townâs towering aqueduct
- Admire the pastel facades of the UNESCO center
- Learn about the Mexican independence movement, plotted here
- Enjoy wine and cheese tours just outside the city
- Try gorditas queretanas, thick tortillas stuffed with meat
Puebla
Explore historic Puebla, home to world-renowned food and colonial architecture.
- Stroll the colorful historic center
- Stop by Puebla Cathedral and its tall twin bell towers
- Visit the glittering gold chapel within the Church of Santo Domingo
- See the oldest public library in the Americas, Biblioteca Palafoxiana
- Try cemitas, a sesame-seed torta with milanesa, avocado, and cheese
Cuernavaca
Relax in Cuernavaca, called the âCity of Eternal Springâ for its pleasant weather.
- See the former residence of Hernån Cortés, Palacio de Cortés
- Visit Cuernavaca Cathedral for its famous murals
- Walk through the JardĂn Bordaâs terraced gardensÂ
- Explore the Teopanzolco pyramids, right within the city
- Order café de olla and conchas con nata, spiced coffee and sweet bread
The Pacific coast
Find rainforests, dramatic cliffs, and white sand beaches on Mexicoâs Pacific coast. Here, the Sierra Madre foothills drop into the ocean, creating wide bays and hilly vistas. Hill towns breed traditional art while coastal areas are surf havens. Key Pacific states like Jalisco give the world Mexican tequila, mariachi, and charrerĂa. A new highway connecting Puerto Escondido with Oaxaca City now makes the coast easier to explore with a private car trip.
Where to go
Mexico's Pacific region rewards travelers seeking a range of experiences. Choose spots along Banderas Bay for beach days and resort luxury. Head to Guadalajara or Tequila for cultural and food-focused trips. Head to the Oaxaca coast to try your hand at surfing or enjoy slow travel.
Mexico's Pacific region rewards travelers seeking a range of experiences. Choose spots along Banderas Bay for beach days and resort luxury. Head to Guadalajara or Tequila for cultural and food-focused trips. Head to the Oaxaca coast to try your hand at surfing or enjoy **s...
Guadalajara
Visit Mexicoâs second-largest city, the birthplace of mariachi, and a hub of art and culture that rivals Mexico City.
- See Orozcoâs murals in the Hospicio Cabañas, a UNESCO site
- Immerse yourself in local art in the Tlaquepaque craft district
- Shop for locally crafted goods in Mercado San Juan de Dios
- Catch live mariachi performances year-round in El PariĂĄn
- Try tortas ahogadas, a pork sandwich dunked in tomato and chile sauce
Tequila
See Tequila, the namesake of the iconic blue agave liquor and a charming colonial town.
- Drive past blue agave fields on the valley roads into town
- Book a distillery tour to watch tequila production and have samples
- Attend a jimador demonstration to watch traditional agave harvest
- Wander the main plaza and see Santiago ApĂłstol church
- Try cantaritos, tequila with citrus and soda in clay pots
Puerto Vallarta
Unwind in this former fishing village on Banderas Bay, a convenient beach base.
- Stroll the seaside promenade, busy but rewarding at sunset
- Walk the cobblestone streets of the old town (Zona RomĂĄntica)
- See the crown-shaped tower of Our Lady of Guadalupe
- Watch humpback whales from December to March
- Try raicilla, a local agave spirit, at tasting bars
Riviera Nayarit
Along the Riviera Nayarit, stay in surf-focused Sayulita, or find a luxurious escape in Punta Mita.Â
- Surf beginner-friendly breaks in Sayulita
- Enjoy an upscale resort experience in Punta Mita; surf at El Anclote
- Boat to the nearby Marietas Islands for wildlife and snorkeling
- See traditional Huichol beadwork and yarn paintings in Sayulita
- Try fresh seafood, especially pescado zarandeado
Puerto Escondido
Enjoy slow travel in Puerto Escondido, best for advanced surfers and those craving quiet beach days.
- Watch surfers at Zicatela, the âMexican Pipelineâ
- Explore Carrizalillo, a small cove with gentle waves
- Take a night boat trip to the Manialtepec lagoon for glowing plankton
- Visit the beach bars of La Punta and try beginner surf lessons
- Pair coastal dishes with mezcal from the valleys
Mazunte and Zipolite
Find laid-back beaches and wildlife experiences in Mazunte and Zipolite, two sleepy villages on the Oaxaca coast.
- Visit the Mexican Turtle Center to learn about conservation efforts
- Stroll Punta Cometa at sunset for clifftop views
- Enjoy relaxed (and some clothing optional) beaches in Zipolite
- Swim in the calm waters of San Agustinillo Bay, between the villages
- Try smoked fish tacos and bright, fresh ceviche
South and the YucatĂĄn
Southern Mexicoâs mountainous highlands blend into the YucatĂĄn peninsula, a limestone shelf. The peninsula has no surface rivers; its water runs underground and surfaces in enchanting cenotes. Maya ruins abound, and descendants still speak versions of their languages. Visit Oaxaca, Mexicoâs food capital, for moles and mezcal, or go to the peninsula for sour orange and habaneros. The Tren Maya connects some major cities and airports, but a car is the best way to reach remote cenotes and ruins.
Where to go
Focus your visit on the Caribbean coast, the YucatĂĄn interior, or the southern highlands. The Caribbean coast offers beaches, resorts, and nightlife. The YucatĂĄn interior is best for history buffs and those seeking cenote adventures. Finally, the southern highlands are ideal for foodies and hikers.
Focus your visit on the Caribbean coast, the YucatĂĄn interior, or the southern highlands. The Caribbean coast offers beaches, resorts, and nightlife. The YucatĂĄn interior is best for history buffs and those seeking cenote adventures. Finally, the southern highlands are...
CancĂșn and Playa del Carmen
CancĂșn and Playa del Carmen are the areaâs biggest resort towns, offering seaside adventures just an hour apart.
- Explore CancĂșnâs hotel zone beaches, splitting the sea and lagoon
- Snorkel or boat around the MUSA underwater sculpture garden
- Take a ferry to Isla Mujeres for Playa Norte
- Visit Xcaret eco-park for underground rivers and evening shows
- Take a ferry to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen for scuba diving
Tulum
Visit Tulum for ruins, cenotes, and beaches, all at your fingertips.
- See the Tulum ruins, Maya walls above the sea
- Swim in the nearby clear Gran Cenote, spotting turtles
- Snorkel in the Dos Ojos cenote nearby, connected by caves
- Relax on Playa ParaĂso or Playa Ruinas (just below the ruins)
- Eat Yucatecan pork, slow-roasted and served in tortillas
MĂ©rida
Explore the YucatĂĄnâs colonial capital, with easy access to nearby ruins.
- Stroll the Paseo de Montejo, a boulevard of mansions
- Visit on Sunday for the street fair in the Plaza GrandeÂ
- Learn about Maya history and culture at Gran Museo del Mundo Maya
- Visit Uxmal, about an hour from MĂ©rida by private car
- Try comforting sopa de lima, a zesty chicken or turkey soup
Bacalar
See the âLagoon of Seven Colorsâ in this tranquil town, a quieter alternative to Tulum.
- Explore the lagoon of shifting blues by boat, kayak, or paddleboard
- See the protected stromatolites, microbe-formed rock-like structures
- Take a boat tour of the historic pirateâs channel, leading to cenotes
- Stroll the town for murals, cafes, yoga studios, and peaceful docks
- Try pescado tikin xic: fish marinated in achiote and sour orange
Oaxaca
Dive into Mexicoâs food capital and the heart of Zapotec culture, Oaxaca.
- See the gilded Templo de Santo Domingo and its gardens
- Visit the grill hall for lunch (Mercado 20 de Noviembre)
- Head to Monte AlbĂĄn, the Zapotec capital above the city
- Watch weavers work in nearby TeotitlĂĄn del Valle
- Try Oaxacaâs seven classic mole sauce varieties
San CristĂłbal de las Casas
Explore this âPueblo MĂĄgicoâ known for its indigenous Maya culture and textile arts.
- Shop for handmade textiles and traditional crafts in central markets
- Admire colonial stone buildings, especially San CristĂłbal Cathedral
- Stroll Real de Guadalupe for open-air cafes and live music
- Book a local cacao or pox (a Tzotzil corn spirit) tastingÂ
- Try Chiapanecan tamales, usually served with plantains and beans
How we'd travel Mexico
Classic first trip, 10 days
See Mexicoâs capital, the pyramids, and two food hotspots in one road trip.
Mexico City (4) â Teotihuacan (2h stop) â Puebla (2) â Helia Bravo Hollis Botanical Garden (1h stop) â Oaxaca (4)
History and ruins, 10 days
Explore ancient ruins and jungle cities on this 10-day adventure.
MĂ©rida (3) â ChichĂ©n ItzĂĄ (day trip from MĂ©rida) â Valladolid (2) â Ek Balam (2h stop) â Tulum (3) â Muyil (2h stop) and Chacchoben (2h stop) â Bacalar (2)
Food and drink, 8 days
Try birria and tortas ahogadas, sip tequila at the source, then end your trip with pescado zarandeado on the beach.
Guadalajara (3) â La Rojeña distillery (1.5h stop) â Puerto Vallarta (2) â Sayulita (3)
Coastal circuit, 8 days
Visit two seas in one road trip. See the Sea of Cortezâs whale sharks and go island hopping from La Paz, then move toward the Pacific surf in Todos Santos.
Cabo San Lucas (3) â La Paz (3) â Todos Santos (2) â Los Cabos Airport
Colonial circuit, 8 days
Follow the old silver mining route on a relaxing 8-day journey, from Mexicoâs capital to BajĂoâs historic UNESCO towns.
Mexico City (2) â QuerĂ©taro (2) â San Miguel de Allende (2) â Guanajuato (2) â Mexico City
Families' YucatĂĄn loop, 8 days
Discover YucatĂĄnâs white-sand beaches and ancient ruins hidden in the jungle, the perfect family-friendly adventure.
CancĂșn Airport â Tulum (3) â Ek Balam (2h stop) â Valladolid (2) â ChichĂ©n ItzĂĄ (2h stop) â MĂ©rida (3) â CancĂșn Airport
Our recommended routes in Mexico
Cancun to Tulum
1h 36min âą 124km (77.1mi)
From US$114
Playa del Carmen to Cancun
50min âą 61km (37.9mi)
From US$68
Puebla to Mexico City
2h 14min âą 132km (82.0mi)
From US$151
Tepoztlan to Mexico City
1h 30min âą 84km (52.2mi)
From US$97
Oaxaca de Juarez to Puerto Escondido
3h 7min âą 195km (121.2mi)
From US$323
Tulum to Merida
3h 9min âą 259km (160.9mi)
From US$270
Cabo San Lucas to La Paz
2h 1min âą 157km (97.6mi)
From US$136
San Jose del Cabo to La Paz
2h 15min âą 186km (115.6mi)
From US$162
Sayulita to Puerto Vallarta
58min âą 41km (25.5mi)
From US$70
Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende
3h 38min âą 266km (165.3mi)
From US$252
Puerto Vallarta Airport to Punta Mita
51min âą 40km (24.9mi)
From US$83
Chihuahua City to Creel
3h 28min âą 259km (160.9mi)
From US$333
Best day trips in Mexico
Mexico City to Teotihuacan: Private day trip
Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita and San Pancho: Private day trip
Merida to Chichen Itza: Private day trip
Cabo San Lucas to Todos Santos and Cabo Estuary: Day trip
San Jose del Cabo to La Paz: Private day trip
Oaxaca to Monte Alban and Mitla: Private day trip
Artistic Heritage from Mexico City: Private day trip
Tulum and Dos Ojos Turquoise Waters: Day trip from Cancun
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Your Mexico questions, answered
About the author
Morgan Carpenter is a US-based travel writer whoâs visited 19 countries so far. She prioritizes culinary experiences and outdoor adventures at every destination.
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