Mexico hosts some of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Whether you are looking to spend your vacation on the beach, explore the nightlife, or visit ancient ruins, the Central American country has it all. Not to mention the great food and music. However, choosing the best vacation spot might be challenging, so let us help you. Here are 15 of the best cities to visit in Mexico.
Mexico City
Most people may recognize Mexico City as the country’s capital city. It’s the first city on our list. People from all over come to visit its numerous markets, parks, and restaurants. If you are looking to get an authentic feel for Mexico’s vibrant culture, Mexico City is the place to go. You can also check out some of their spectacular museums.
Cancun
Cancun is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. Located along the Caribbean coast, its white sand and clear blue waters make it popular among tourists. If you are looking to relax in the sun or go for a swim, Cancun is perfect. Treat you and your significant other to a spectacular getaway. Please note that it is a popular spring break destination for college students, so keep that in mind for your planning.
Guadalajara
Guadalajara is Mexico’s second-largest city. Guadalajara is known for producing some of the best tequila. It’s also the birthplace of Mariachi, a fun style of music that features stringed instruments, singing, and costumes. Looking to drink some good tequila and listen to authentic Mexican music? Book a trip to Guadalajara, one of Mexico’s most exciting nightlife destinations.
Playa del Carmen
The Riviera Maya is a tourist and resort district located south of Cancun. One of its most popular cities is Playa del Carmen, a destination that boasts beautiful beaches and thriving city life. This coastal city is surrounded by rainforests and beautiful coral reefs. Plan something adventurous and spend the evening sipping Corona on one of its rooftop bars.
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The city offers a wide range of activities including sight-seeing and hiking. See some of the breathtaking waterfalls off the Sierra Madre Mountains or visit the beach to see humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. In addition to being a magnet for thrill-seekers, Puerto Vallarta is known for its progressive views, making it ideal for LGBTQ+ travelers.
San Miguel de Allende
For artists, San Miguel de Allende is a must. In the 60s, the cobbled city attracted writers such as Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Neal Cassady. Its spring-like climate, striking architecture, and numerous art galleries make it hands down the best destination for creative types. Enjoy the historic district’s signature colors—saffron, rusty orange, ochre, terracotta, and mustard yellow.
Oaxaca City
Mezcal, a distilled alcoholic drink made from agave, is primarily produced in the Oaxaca region. Known for its smoky flavor, connoisseurs flock to Oaxaca City to drink the freshest Mezcal in the world. The city is also known for its lively celebrations. Visit during Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and enjoy the festivities as the locals pay homage to their lost loved ones.
Tulum
Tulum is a beach town located in the Riviera Maya region, along the Caribbean Sea. It’s a secluded spot that often attracts tourists looking for a spiritual experience. Enjoy the open air during a rooftop yoga session or find your inner peace during a sound therapy session. Tulum is a bohemian’s destination.
Los Cabos
Located on the Baja California peninsula, Los Cabos is a luxury resort destination for people looking to enjoy the glitzier side of life. Made up of sister cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, they are huge party destinations for North Americans. Celebrities also frequent their resorts to partake in their many activities such as golfing, deep-sea fishing, and whale watching. Satisfy your wild side—whatever happens in Cabo, stays in Cabo.
Merida
This southeastern city is a cultural clash between Mayan and Spanish influences. Spanish explorers discovered ruins and built their city nearby. Merida is a beautiful city that has a rich history. The capital of Yucatan, the city is nicknamed the “White City” for the white limestone the early colonies used to construct their buildings. Plus, the city is ranked among the safest in the country.
Cozumel
Cozumel is an island off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, located in the Caribbean Sea. Covered mostly by forest, the former Mayan territory is home to a number of animals found only on the island—such as unique species of wren, fox, raccoon, and rodents. Another tourist attraction is the coral reefs. Cozumel is home to the second-largest reef in the world, making it a spectacular spot for scuba diving.
Puebla
Puebla de Zaragoza, or simply known as Puebla, is the fourth largest city in Mexico. It is a southern city situated in a valley surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. Pre-colonization, it was where native groups fought in what would become the “flower wars.” Puebla is most famous for mole poblano, chiles en nogada, and Talavera pottery. Foodies and art lovers flock to this destination in droves.
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is an island near Cancun whose stunning beaches and snorkeling opportunities draw tourists from all over. The literal translation is “Island of Women.” The island was named by Spanish colonists after discovering many images of goddesses—home to the Maya goddess of childbirth and medicine. While the name might be misleading, tourists can enjoy easygoing island life. The population is a little under 13,000 people.
Zihuatanejo
Have you ever seen the movie Shawshank Redemption? Well, Zihuatanejo is the Mexican coastal city along the Pacific Ocean where the movie’s main characters escape to. Tourists from the nearby resort town of Ixtapa often visit for its old Mexican charm. If you are looking for great fishing, delicious seafood, and excellent scuba diving, this might be the destination for you.
Bacalar
A lesser-known destination near Belize, Bacalar is a city with a beautiful lagoon. Known as Lake Bacalar, its limestone bottom gives the water a clear and striking blue color. The site also hosts some of the oldest life on the planet. Called stromatolites, sedimentary formations formed by microorganisms, they are one of only a few in the world that still exist.
