Must-Visit Destinations in Mexico: Amazing beaches, relaxing places, natural landscapes and great food. These are some of the main elements that make a perfect vacation for Mexicans when exploring their country. Mexico has many travel destinations that attract travelers from all over the world, but for locals, it’s all about feeling at home – places that feel familiar and welcoming are a must.
Below are some of the destinations in Mexico that attract the most local travelers year after year. There are also some places that Mexicans like to visit several times a year so they can relax in the sun with a local dish or drink.
1- Yucatan
The Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico is one of the best vacation destinations in Mexico. It is easily accessible from the US/Canada and many people come here for the beautiful beaches, wild parties, cenotes, and more. It is also an area that is extremely popular among my travel blogger friends and can be said to be one of the most famous places to visit in Mexico.
Here are some things to do in Yucatan:
- Visit Chichen Itza: Explore ancient Mayan ruins and the iconic Temple of Kukulkan.
- Swim in cenotes: Experience natural underground swimming pools like Cenote Ik Kil or Cenote Suytun.
- Explore Uxmal: Discover another impressive Mayan archaeological site with well-preserved pyramids and temples.
- Stroll around Merida: Enjoy colonial charm, local markets, and cultural events in the capital of Yucatan.
- Relax on the beaches of Progreso: Spend a day on the sandy shores of this coastal town.
- Take a boat trip in Celestun: Spot flamingos and other wildlife in this beautiful biosphere reserve.
2- Tulum
Tulum, Mexico, has become one of the most popular travel destinations in Mexico and has been a huge boost for Mexico tourism. So what is all this hype about? Tulum offers a lot for visitors in a relatively small city and has quickly become one of the best places to stay in Mexico. It is located in the Yucatan Peninsula, on the Mexican side of the Caribbean Sea, so expect beautiful blue waters and some of the best beaches in Mexico. Those who want to get out into nature can head to the cenotes (sen-no-tes), Mexico’s famous natural swimming pools located in the Yucatan.
Here are some things to do in Tulum:
- Visit the Tulum Ruins: Explore ancient Mayan ruins perched above the Caribbean Sea.
- Relax on Tulum Beach: Enjoy soft white sand and clear turquoise waters at one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.
- Swim in cenotes: Dive into crystal-clear cenotes like the Gran Cenote or Dos Ojos.
- Explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: Take a boat tour to see wildlife, mangroves, and pristine lagoons.
- Visit the Tulum Art Club: View local art and enjoy a coffee at this creative space.
- Take a yoga class: Join a yoga session at one of the many wellness retreats in Tulum.
- Go snorkeling or diving: Explore coral reefs and underwater life at dive spots near Tulum.
3- Isla Holbox
Isla Holbox is a beautiful little island off the northern coast of the Yucatan and is one of the best places to visit in Mexico. This paradise island with white sand beaches and swaying palm trees offers everything you need to have a relaxing stay and there are plenty of things to do in Isla Holbox.
Without paved roads, you can only get here by bicycle, on foot or by golf cart. Isla Holbox’s amazing beaches and its spectacular sandy beach called Punta Mosquito are just some of the things you must experience. In the right season, it is possible to swim with whale sharks in the ocean waters surrounding Isla Holbox
Here are some things to do in Isla Holbox:
- Relax at Punta Mosquito Beach: Enjoy the calm white sand and shallow waters at this quiet beach.
- Swim with whale sharks: Experience swimming with these gentle giants (seasonal activity).
- Explore the island by golf cart or bike: Rent a golf cart or bike to tour the island’s unpaved roads and sights.
- Visit Bioluminescent Beach: See the magical glow of bioluminescent plankton in the ocean at night.
- Take a boat ride to nearby islands: Visit Isla Pájaros (Bird Island) and Isla de la Pasión to see unique wildlife.
4- Las Coloradas
You dreamed of this place and it has been a bucketlist destination in Mexico for me. It should be on your list of vacation places in Mexico as well. A day trip from Cancun but many companies also offer trips from cities like Valladolid and Merida. Since it is quite far from Cancun, we also get the opportunity to see the Ek Balam ruins and Cenote Xcanche.
Once you visit the lakes, don’t forget to take a boat ride to see some crocodiles and flamingos. And for lunch, visit Rio Lagartos or if you are road tripping in the Yucatan Peninsula, you can even spend a night there.
Here are some things to do in Las Coloradas:
- Visit the Pink Lakes: Visit the famous pink salt lakes and take stunning photos of the vibrant waters.
- Take a Guided Tour: Learn about the salt production process and the natural factors that create the pink color.
- See the Flamingos: See the Flamingos and other bird species that live in the region.
- Explore Rio Lagartos: Take a boat tour through the nearby Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve to see crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife.
- Visit Ek Balam: Combine your trip with a visit to the nearby Mayan ruins Ek Balam and explore the ancient city.
- Swim in Cenote Xcanche: Cool off by swimming in this nearby cenote known for its clear waters and tranquil atmosphere.
5- Cozumel
Cozumel is a small island located in the turquoise Caribbean Sea near Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and is one of the most beautiful places in Mexico. Its biggest attraction is its incredible underwater life and Cozumel is renowned as one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world.
If you want to get certified during your vacation in Mexico, there is no shortage of great dive schools in Cozumel, and if you are experienced you will enjoy experiences such as night dives or extended dives.
Here are some things to do in Cozumel:
- Scuba diving and snorkeling: Explore Cozumel’s world-famous coral reefs, including the Palancar and Columbia Reefs.
- Visit Chankanaab Park: Enjoy the beach, snorkel in the lagoon, swim with dolphins or explore the botanical gardens.
- Relax on the beaches: Spend a day at popular beaches like Playa Palancar or Playa Mia, where you can sunbathe, swim or enjoy water sports.
- Shop in San Miguel: Explore the shops in Cozumel’s main town, where you can buy souvenirs, local crafts, and jewelry.
6- Coba
Coba (which means ‘water flowing with the wind’ in Mayan) is a small city located in the state of Quintana Roo and is located between Lago Coba and Lago Macanxoc. It is also the name of nearby Mayan ruins that are about 5 minutes from the city center. Despite being less famous than the famous Chichen Itza and Ek Balam ruins, Coba is well worth visiting. Historical evidence suggests that the Coba ruins are much older than Chichen Itza, Ek Balam or Tulum and date back to 50 BC.
A large portion of this 80 square kilometer site has not yet been excavated and is hidden in dense jungle. Since this is such a large archeological site, the best way to see these jungle ruins is by renting a bike.
Here are some things to do in Coba:
- Explore the Coba Ruins: Visit the ancient Maya city, known for its large pyramids and vast archaeological site.
- Climb the Nohoch Mul Pyramid: Climb the tallest pyramid on the Yucatan Peninsula and get a breathtaking view of the surrounding jungle.
- Rent a bike to tour the ruins: Cover more distance by biking between the different structures and sites within the Coba ruins.
- Visit the Coba Lagoon: See the beautiful Lago Coba and Lago Macanxoc, two beautiful lakes near the ruins.
- Bird watching in the jungle: Spot a variety of bird species and other wildlife in the dense jungle surrounding Coba.
7- Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is an ancient Mayan city – one of the most famous historical sites in Mexico and a world-renowned landmark. Built more than 1000 years ago, with the Temple of Kukulkan (the pyramid) at its center, Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the pyramid is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
If you want to learn about the history of Mayan culture, this is the place for you. A guided tour takes you around the site, giving detailed descriptions of each building, the costumes of the Mayan people, and even their ball game while you stand in an ancient ball court.
Here are some of the things to do in Chichen Itza:
- Visit the Temple of Kukulkan: See the iconic pyramid, also known as “El Castillo,” which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Explore the Great Ball Court: Discover the largest and most well-preserved ancient Maya ball court, where the Mayans played their traditional games.
- See the Temple of the Warriors: Admire the impressive structure surrounded by rows of carved columns depicting ancient warriors.
- Visit the Sacred Cenote: Learn about the cenote’s historical significance as a site for Mayan rituals and offerings.
- Walk through the Observatory (El Caracol): Explore the ancient observatory used by the Mayans to track the stars and planets
8- Valladolid
One of the places to visit in Mexico is the charming city of Valladolid. Its colorful streets, lively squares, beautiful colonial architecture, and great location close to other main attractions in Mexico make it a great place to spend a day or more during your trip to Mexico.
At least one day or more is a must to explore the city. The best thing to do in Valladolid is to simply stroll through the pastel-colored streets. Calle de los Frailes is probably the most colorful street, or at least the most popular among visitors because of its boutique shops, coffee bars, and restaurants. Visit the local market to try some Mexican snacks and sit in the main square to people watch.
Here are some things to do in Valladolid:
- Take a stroll in Parque Principal: Relax in the main square, enjoy the local atmosphere and admire the beautiful colonial architecture.
- Visit the Convento de San Bernardino de Siena: Explore this historic convent, known for its impressive architecture and tranquil ambiance.
- Visit the Cenote Zaci: Swim in this popular cenote just outside of town, known for its clear waters and natural beauty.
- Walk the Calle de los Frailes: Enjoy the colorful, picturesque street lined with boutique shops, cafes and restaurants.
- Visit the Museo de San Roque: Learn about Valladolid’s history and culture through exhibitions on local art and artifacts.
9- Cancun
The city of Cancun, located on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in the country. Cancun is definitely one of the best Mexico cities to visit.
There are so many things to do in Cancun that you could spend weeks here and I know people who have made multiple trips to Mexico just for Cancun. One of the 7 Wonders of the World and one of the most amazing archaeological sites, Chichen Itza, is just a short drive away.
Here are some things to do in Cancun:
- Relax on the beaches: Enjoy pristine white sands and clear blue waters at popular beaches like Playa Delfines, Playa Tortugas and Playa Chac Mool.
- Visit Isla Mujeres: Take a ferry to this nearby island to see its beautiful beaches, snorkeling spots and the iconic Underwater Museum (MUSA).
- Explore Xcaret Park: Experience this eco-archaeological park with activities like snorkeling in underground rivers, cultural performances and wildlife encounters.
- Discover the Mayan Ruins of El Rey: Explore the ancient ruins of El Rey, located in the Hotel Zone, which offer insight into the area’s Mayan history.
- Visit Cancun’s Hotel Zone: Enjoy a bustling area with many restaurants, bars and shopping centers like La Isla Shopping Village.
10- Morelia
Morelia is a great Mexican destination that is often overlooked in favor of more popular highland cities like Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende. In fact, there is a good chance that you won’t even see another foreign tourist during your visit to Morelia, although why it isn’t so well known is a mystery. It is an extremely pleasant and photogenic place, not to mention that the entire city is designated as a UNESCO Heritage Site, so its charm is no secret at all.
Here are some things to do in Morelia:
- Explore the Historic Center: Wander the charming colonial streets, admire the beautiful architecture and visit landmarks like the Morelia Cathedral.
- Visit the Morelia Cathedral: Marvel at the stunning Baroque architecture and intricate details of this iconic cathedral.
- Walk along the Aqueduct: Stroll along the 18th-century Aqueduct, a historic landmark with impressive arches.
- Discover the Museo del Estado: Learn about Michoacán’s history and culture through the exhibitions at this state museum.
- Relax in the Jardín de las Rosas: Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and lush greenery in this tranquil garden.
- Discover the Tarascas Fountain: Admire the beautiful fountain with three bronze sculptures of Tarascan women.
Best Time to Visit Mexico
The best time to visit Mexico is from December to April when the weather is dry and temperatures are cool. Mexico is made up of seven main climate zones, ranging from the arid deserts in the north/center to tropical climates such as the Yucatan Peninsula in the southeast.
Mexico offers a diverse array of destinations perfect for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. From the stunning beaches of Cancun and Tulum to the historic ruins of Chichen Itza and Coba, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking vibrant city life, tranquil islands, or ancient wonders, visiting between December and April ensures the best weather for enjoying these incredible experiences.
