30 famous Places to visit in Mexico

Mexico City. Photo by admknowdns. Pixabay

30 famous Places to visit in Mexico

In southern North America, Mexico has long been a popular vacation destination. This vibrant country has a rich culture that combines native traditions with Spanish influences.

Beautiful scenery, beautiful beaches, awe-inspiring architecture, cultural attractions, and historical landmarks abound in Mexico. There is so much to see and do in the country, but a few places should definitely be on your list.

The country’s rich culture, a fascinating mix of native peoples as well as colonial influences from Spain, tops the entire experience, showing up in everything from the country’s culinary creations to its vibrant musical and dance traditions. It’s also a country rich in flora and fauna, as it spans climate zones ranging from arid deserts to lush tropical rainforests.

1. Mexico City

If you’re a culture-loving adventurer looking for a low-cost vacation, this capital city is ideal.

Tourists visit the city because of its vibrant atmosphere, renowned arts, delectable cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene. A stroll through the downtown area will allow you to appreciate the city’s colonial-style architecture and fascinating history.

The Frida Kahlo Museum, Museo Nacional de Antropologia, and Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral are among the city’s top attractions and famous landmarks. The Palacio de Bellas Artes is another must-see attraction. It is a significant cultural center in the city, hosting prestigious events in music, theater, dance, opera, and literature.

2. Cancún and the Mayan Riviera

Cancun, Playa del Carmen, the island of Cozumel, and other resort destinations line a beautiful stretch of coastline on the Gulf of Mexico. These are referred to as the Riviera Maya.

This magnificent area along the eastern edge of the Yucatán Peninsula attracts approximately five million visitors per year, generating enormous tourist revenues. Despite these numbers, you won’t feel crowded because of the Riviera’s wide beaches, endless crystal-clear water, and plethora of the best all-inclusive resorts.

There are also dolphin and stingray swims, snorkelling among reefs and tropical fish, and scuba diving in the world’s largest underwater museum, a spectacular collection of sculptures submerged at depths of up to eight meters.

Then there are the many ancient Mayan ruins in the area, some of which are within walking distance of the beaches, while the largest and most impressive – Chichén Itzá and Tulum – are only a few hours away.

3. Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta, on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is another increasingly popular beach destination. The city was first on the holiday radar in the 1960s as a playground for North America’s social elite, and has since become extremely popular among foreigners looking for second homes in a sunny, warmer climate. Many parts of it have escaped modern development.

Because of the many things to do in Puerto Vallarta, the city now attracts both older cruise ship passengers looking to swim with dolphins and younger travellers looking for adventure, which can be found in activities as diverse as paragliding and jet skiing.

For those who prefer a slower-paced holiday, the city also has many places to shop for arts and crafts or simply stroll along pleasant beachside promenades with their many green spaces and sculptures.

4. Cabo San Lucas and the Los Cabos Corridor

Los Cabos, located at the southern tip of the stunning Baja Peninsula, is one of Mexico’s most popular beach destinations. This 30- kilometre stretch of pristine beaches known as the Los Cabos Corridor (Corredor Turistico) extends from the towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo and attracts visitors from all over the world for its clear waters, diving, snorkelling, and fishing (it also hosts the world’s largest marlin contest).

There are numerous resorts that cater to all tastes and budgets, ranging from luxurious spas to self-centred properties with some of the best courses in North America. However, Los Cabos is primarily appealing to high-end travellers. It is one of Mexico’s luxury capitals.

Swimming and snorkelling around the famous natural landmark El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, a huge archway carved out of the coastline where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific, is one of the most popular things to do in addition to spending time on the beaches and exploring Cabo San Lucas.

5. Copper Canyon: Mexico’s Grand Canyon

Chihuahua, one of Mexico’s northernmost states (it shares a border with New Mexico in the United States), is home to one of the country’s most popular natural attractions, the breathtaking Copper Canyon (Barranca del Cobre).

Copper Canyon, located in the Sierra Madre Occidental and consisting of a spectacular group of deep canyons, is larger and deeper than its more famous cousin, the Grand Canyon. These amazing natural structures, named after the distinctive copper green colouring along their steep canyon walls, were formed by six rivers that converge in the Rio Fuerte before draining into the Gulf of California.

Because of the area’s increased popularity as a travel destination, those looking to explore this area of outstanding natural beauty have a variety of options available to them, ranging from scenic rail trips aboard the Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacfico to more adventurous excursions by bike or even horseback.

6. Merida

Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico. Photo by David Cabrera. Wikimedia Commons

Merida is the ideal location for exploring Yucatan’s magnificent Mayan sites. Historical sites such as Chichen Itza and Tulum are easily accessible from the city.

This capital city has one of Mexico’s most beautiful old colonial districts. Merida is known as the “white city” because of its white stone mansions. While it is known as the “White City,” Merida is a truly colorful and vibrant city rich in culture and history.

The area has striking European influences, including French architecture. There are also many beautiful places to visit, including the Mayan World Museum of Merida, Paseo de Montejo, and Plaza Grande.

7. Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza. Photo by Daniel Schwen. Wikimedia Commons

Chichen Itza is thought to represent water magicians. This is a Mayan city that existed and thrived in the 9th and 10th centuries CE. Its centre is adorned with La Pirámide, which cannot be climbed. No worries, admiring it from a distance will suffice.

The Mayans’ deep admiration and knowledge of astronomy influenced the construction plans, which included everything from constructing a round-shaped observatory to constructing 365 steps on the main pyramid. This pyramid, also known as the Kukulkan Pyramid, contains two smaller ones inside, making it the largest Russian doll ever built. 

8. Doj Ojos cenote

A person underwater with a scuba diver. Photo by Malek Bee. Unsplash

The Yucatan peninsula is home to one of the world’s largest underwater cave systems, and it’s well worth your time. Cenotes are naturally formed sinkholes that expose massive underground water pits ideal for swimming and deepwater exploration. Mexico is brimming with these natural wonders, which have become increasingly popular among tourists for obvious reasons.

Dos Ojos cenote got its name from its appearance, as it forms an eye-catching shape with the neighbouring cave system. The water in this cave stays at 72 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius) all year, and there are two main caves for divers to enter: the Bat cave line and the Barbie cave line. Even if you do not intend to go deep diving, you should visit this tourist attraction in Mexico and take a boat ride around it.

9. Xcaret Park

Xcaret Park. Photo by Tativert. Wikimedia Commons

Xcaret Park, a one-of-a-kind theme park. It manages to pack in as many essential Mexican experiences as possible. This eco-archaeological park, which is privately owned, spans over 200 acres (80ha) and is a full-body workout to tour. Divide and conquer is the best way to explore it all at once. It’s in the Riviera Mara and has a nice stretch of the Caribbean coastline to itself.

Nature-based attractions at Xcaret include swimming with dolphins, sharks, and stingrays, learning about the life cycle of butterflies and sea turtle nesting sites, holding a macaw in the bird sanctuary, and even getting up close and personal with jaguars.

If you’re looking for a rush, there are monster truck racing fields and zip lines. There are fields for monster truck racing, zip lines that fly over replica Mayan villages, shallow and deep pools and natural rivers, white-water rafting, speed boating, and so on. 

10. Bosque de Chapultepec

How would you feel about strolling through one of the world’s oldest urban parks? Bosque de Chapultepec provides just that, encircling you with a dense forest jet that keeps you in the city’s urban epicentre.

This one can compete with Central Park! Mexico City’s green oasis surrounds Chapultepec Hill, a rock formation, and divides it into four sections filled with vegetation and must-see attractions. Mexico’s “lungs” cover approximately 1,695 acres (686ha), making it one of the largest city parks in the Western Hemisphere. It is home to some of Mexico City’s most prominent tourist attractions, and the setting is spectacular.

11. Uxmal

The Mayan city of Uxmal. Photo by Alejandro Hernández Osuna. Wikimedia Commons

All the structures in this cluster of buildings can now be climbed, except for the Adivido pyramid. Uxmal, one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations. This city’s name and origins are unknown, which adds to its allure. The central doorway of the Governor’s Palace is aligned with Venus, and the staircase on the west side of the Temple of the Magician pyramid faces the Sun during the Summer solstice, as is customary.

It was once one of the area’s largest cities, with a population of around 20.000 Maya. It is now a World Heritage site. You must visit The Nunnery Quadrangle and climb the 90 steps of The Pyramid of the Magician, both of which cover approximately 150 acres (60ha). Expect 60-degree slopes and 328-foot-high (100-meter) walls, but the payoff is spectacular. 

12. Frida Kahlo Museum 

Frida Kahlo Museum. Photo by Alex1210O. Wikimedia Commons

Magdalena Carmen Frida Kahlo y Calderón, an artist, feminist, and queer icon, wanted her beloved Blue House to become a museum after her death. La Casa Azul is where she spent the majority of her life, sharing it with her family and, later, her husband Diego Rivera, who is responsible for the museum’s existence. A close friend of theirs, poet Carlos Pellicer, carefully curated the museum to capture the true essence of her life, art, and Mexican culture.

Today, you’ll be able to see the walls decorated with paintings created by both Kahlo and her husband, as well as Kahlo’s personal belongings, original furniture, pre-Columbian sculptures, photographs and documents relevant to their lives, and a variety of art supplies.

The exhibition is not to be missed. Frida Kahlo’s dresses. This exhibition provides an intimate look at beloved Frida’s style, ranging from well-known looks she was photographed in to her personal day-to-day garments.

13. Guanajuato 

Guanajuato, Mexico. Photo by Juan Carlos Fonseca Mata. Wikimedia Commons

If there is one region in Mexico that you must visit, it is this colorful wonder. Guanajuato in central Mexico is well-known for its baroque and colonial architecture, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Whatever time of year you visit, there’s a good chance a festival will be rolling down the streets and stopping for a party. Callejoneadas in Guanajuato are said to be *chef’s kiss*. This may also be the best place in Mexico to witness Da de los Muertos celebrations, where locals gather in song and color to honor the memory and lives of those who have passed on.

14. Cancun Underwater Museum

It doesn’t get any more unique than this. Imagine swimming alongside 500 sculptures that appear almost too real. Cancun Underwater Museum, a passion project of Jaime Gonzalez Canto and Jason deCaires Taylor, opened in 2010. It was created with the goal of preserving the coral reefs in this area of Mexican waters by providing interested divers with a specific location to explore. It goes without saying that they’ve outdone themselves.

15. Playa Norte

Cancun beach. Photo by Michelle_Maria. Pixabay

Playa Norte is the 9th most beautiful beach in the world, which has been ranked by travelers for many years in a row. Daily boats leave Cancun for Isla Mujeres, where Playa Norte is located, and where 2250 feet (686 meters) of white smooth sand paradise awaits. Playa Norte may not be as luxurious as Monaco, but it still attracts yachts for fun.

Because of the shallow water in this bay, yachts and other party boats will dock here, giving you the option of getting off and exploring the beach on foot or staying on and dancing the day away. Although the water is shallow, the undertows can be quite strong. Although it is ideal for beginning swimmers and children, some caution is advised. 

16. Tulum

Tulum, located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, is a must-see destination. This ancient city is known for its well-preserved Mayan ruins and stunning white sand beaches with turquoise waters.

After soaking up the rays on the beach, visit the Tulum Archaeological Site to learn more about the area’s fascinating history. Visit Playa Paraiso, Cenote Calavera, Coba Ruins, and Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve for more spectacular experiences in the area.

Tulum provides spectacular experiences as well as a variety of lodging options. There are plenty of options for accommodation, whether you want to stay in a 5-star resort or a beachside bungalow.

17. Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a vibrant destination that gives visitors a taste of authentic Mexico. It is a fascinating blend of native Indian and Spanish elements that has remained mostly untouched over the years. As a result, much of its natural beauty has been preserved.

This untainted city is home to a plethora of enthralling old architecture. There are also several weekly markets, colorful fiestas, and a thriving art scene here. The UNESCO-listed Historic Center of Oaxaca and the nearby Monte Alban are two other must-see attractions.

18. Cozumel

Antique truck in Mexico. Photo by Michelle_Maria. Pixabay

Cozumel is a popular Mexican island just off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It is an ideal destination for sunbathers who want to explore the Caribbean Sea’s magnificent marine life.

Cozumel is well-known for its scuba diving spots near the coral reefs. In the glistening waters, you’ll also see a variety of marine life, including manatees, sea turtles, and dolphins.

Palancar Beach, Paradise Beach, and Playa Punta Morena are some of the best beaches on the island. Zona Arqueológica San Gervasio, Discover Mexico Park, and Punta Sur Ecological Beach Park are among the other notable attractions in the area.

19. San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is a colonial-era city nestled in the Sierra Madre Mountains of central Mexico. It is well-known for its Colonial and Spanish architecture, as well as its visual arts.

This city has a romantic atmosphere that is ideal for couples. It’s also a popular destination for visitors interested in the thriving art scene, music, food, and culture festivals.

You can take strolls through the 500-year-old narrow walkways in the historic city center. There are numerous artisan shops along the way that sell beautiful jewelry, crafts, and handmade accessories. The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, Fábrica la Aurora, and Charco Del Ingenio are also worthwhile stops.

20. Morelia

The colonial-era city is a jewel. Morelia is a lovely place to stay in Mexico, whether for a few days or longer. The layout of this historic city, founded in 1541, has remained largely unchanged, and thanks to more than 200 well-preserved buildings dating back hundreds of years, the entire downtown core has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Spending time in the magnificent Plaza de Armas is a highlight of any visit. This large public square, built nearly 500 years ago, is ideal for those who prefer to explore on foot. In addition to its many great cafés, restaurants, and shopping opportunities, this cityscape features everything from statues of revolutionary heroes to attractive stretches of gardens and pleasant fountains, making it one of Mexico’s most beautiful cityscapes.

21. Acapulco

Acapulco is a well-known beach resort town on the Pacific coast. It was a popular Mexican vacation destination in the 1950s. Today, this iconic location is making a comeback as a vacation destination for travelers seeking a lively atmosphere.

Acapulco is best known for its stunning beaches and exciting nightlife. So, whether you’re a beach bum or a party goer, this epic location is well worth a visit. It is also a popular spring break destination for those looking to sample international cuisine.

22. Guadalajara

Guadalajara, Mexico. Photo by Another Believer. Wikimedia Commons

Guadalajara is a lively city in western Mexico. It is the state capital of Jalisco, the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila. Guadalajara is the country’s second-largest city, and there are plenty of exciting things to do there.

The historic center of the city is filled with colonial plazas and well-known landmarks such as the Teatro Degollado, Palacio del Gobierno, and the Baroque Guadalajara Cathedral. Furthermore, the vibrant Mexican culture can be found all over the city. Guadalajara has something for everyone, from the mariachi music to the delicious food.

23. Puebla

Puebla, located in east-central Mexico, is famous for its colonial architecture, pottery, and culinary history. You’ll find an impressive collection of pre-Hispanic art here, including mural fragments and ceramics.

Exploring Puebla is a great option for a getaway filled with rich traditions and eye-catching arts. There are several attractions in the area worth seeing, including the Zona Arqueologica de Cholula, the Catedral de Puebla, and the Museo Amparo.

Puebla is also known for its spicy and sweet cuisine. Mole Poblano is a popular dish to try. This traditional Mexican dish contains delectable ingredients such as chocolate, chilis, fruits, nuts, and seeds.

24. Zacatecas

If you’re looking for a less crowded Mexican vacation, Zacatecas is the place to go. This breathtaking state is found in north-central Mexico. It has a rich heritage, which you can discover through the local foods and captivating cultural sites.

The archaeological site of La Quemada is a notable landmark in the area. A magnificent museum, pyramid, and columns can be found at this massive pre-Columbian hilltop settlement. The Museo Pedro Coronel and El Eden, a 16th-century mine, are also must-sees for art lovers.

25. Todos Santos

Todos Santos is located on the Pacific coast of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico, at the foothills of the Sierra de La Laguna Mountains. This charming vacation destination provides both warm hospitality and pleasant weather for a well-deserved break.

Todos Santos is a natural beauty haven and an excellent choice for adventurous travelers. Many people are drawn to this location because of its arts, healthy lifestyle, and surfing opportunities.

The town has many beautiful beaches as well as art galleries. Los Cerritos Beach, Punta Lobos, and Casa de la Cultura Profr Nestor Agundez are among the best places to visit.

26. San Cristóbal de las Casas

San Cristóbal de las Casas is in the Mexican state of Chiapas. It is a fusion of Mayan culture and colonial architecture. The highland town combines Mayan culture and colonial architecture, including the yellow San Cristobal Cathedral.

When visiting downtown, be sure to stop by the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya. There are several breathtaking displays of colorful, traditional textiles and historical exhibits at this striking museum.

27. Cabo Pulmo

Cabo Pulmo. Photo by panza.rayada. Wikimedia Commons

Cabo Pulmo is one of Mexico’s best places to visit for epic scuba diving adventures. This protected National Marine Park is located on the Baja California Peninsula’s east coast, between Pulmo Point and Los Frailes Cape.

You can rediscover the dazzling beauty of the underwater world at Cabo Pulmo. There will be plenty of horse-eye jacks and triggerfish, as well as black coral bushes. Whale sharks and spy hammerhead sharks are examples of larger marine life that you might see.

28. Volcan Paricutin

If you want to climb a volcano, Paricutin is a great place to start. It is a cinder volcano in Michoacan, Mexico. Paricutin is the world’s youngest volcano, and it rose to prominence after erupting in 1943. This dormant volcano has an elevation of around 2,800 meters and provides an exhilarating climb.

You’ll walk through a beautiful forest before crossing a sea of lava rocks. The breathtaking views will take your breath away once you reach the summit.

29. The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve

Sign at the entrance of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve. Ocampo, Michoacán, Mexico. Photo by LBM1948. Wikimedia Commons

The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, also known as the Reserva de la Biósfera Santuario in Mexico, is a stunning natural preserve. This breathtaking biosphere can be found in the rugged forested mountains northwest of Mexico City. It protects the wintering habitat of the beautiful monarch butterfly.

This picturesque location is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts, especially during the monarch butterfly’s annual migration and overwintering. The best time to see these magnificent golden-orange butterflies is between mid-November and mid-March.

30. Agua Azul Waterfalls

Agua Azul Waterfalls. Photo by Luis Medina. Wikimedia Commons

Last but not least are the beautiful Agua Azul Waterfalls. It is a series of waterfalls in the Mexican state of Chiapas that are definitely worth seeing. A magnificent stretch of shallow canyons and cliffs where you can admire the bright blue water thundering down into natural pools can be found here.

The breathtaking Agua Azul is located in the heart of the jungle. As a result, you can expect to see a wide range of native flora and fauna.