Welcome to the vibrant, sun-kissed world of Mexico, where every adventure is a fiesta. Ready to discover the best things to do in Mexico? Take a jaunt around the country’s iconic landmarks, hidden gems and cultural experiences with this guide.
Is it just me, or does the mere mention of Mexico make you want to pack your suitcase, scour for last-minute flights, and explore a new corner of this fascinating country? From underrated cities to exciting archaeological sites, Mexico is full of surprises – and that’s before we even start discussing the food and beaches.
So where do you go when planning a Mexico itinerary? Do you start in the cosmopolitan capital of Mexico City or a more laid-back beach destination like Sayulita or Puerto Vallarta? Is taking a day trip to the Mayan ruins all it’s cracked up to be, or should you skip it and explore the mountains or villages instead? You’ve got questions… I’ve got you covered with the answers.
Get ready to discover the best things to see and do in Mexico – here’s what not to miss on your next trip.
Things to do in Mexico
Explore Mexico City
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Mexico City on my first trip, and I left completely besotted. The capital is a sprawling, intoxicating place, equal parts ancient and cutting-edge, and there is genuinely enough here to fill weeks. Here’s where to start.
Lose a Day in the City’s World-Class Art Museums
Picking the top things to do in Mexico City is both easy and nearly impossible, and nowhere is that truer than with its museums. The first time I visited, my head was spinning trying to decide which to prioritise.
The Museo Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul) was one of my favourites, dedicated to the life and works of the genius that was Frida Kahlo. The Palacio de Bellas Artes is where you’ll want to head for some of the most impressive fine art in the city. And don’t overlook the wonderful Museo Anahuacalli, with its gorgeous mosaics, or the striking
Museo Soumaya, home to the largest collection of Rodin sculptures outside France, alongside works by Dalí, and (a quirky bonus) the world’s largest collection of pre-Hispanic and colonial-era coins. I guarantee I’ve left out a dozen others you’ll want to see, but these are a brilliant place to begin.
Eat Street Tacos Until You Can’t Move
CDMX has enough excellent places to eat that it would take years to discover every great spot (I’m tempted to take on the challenge, honestly). But if you want fun things to do in Mexico that involve chowing down until you physically cannot continue, while hardly denting your wallet, walk the historical centre, Roma Norte or Juárez scoping out the taco stands.
My favourite is Los Cocuyo, pictured above, where I had the best tacos I have ever had in my life.
Food + Drink
When it comes to the tacos at Los Cocuyos, order them all, even the ones that sound a bit squeamish on paper. Try every salsa on hand, wash your hands, repeat.
Stand Among Giants at the National Museum of Anthropology
Spending a full day at the National Museum of Anthropology lets you see a vast collection of artefacts from the Maya, Aztec and other indigenous cultures across nearly two dozen rooms. So let’s focus on what you can’t afford to miss: the intricate Aztec Sun Stone, the colossal Olmec stone heads thought to be 3,000 years old, and the beautiful full-scale replicas of Maya temples in the outdoor space.
Another highlight for me was simply sitting in the courtyard, marvelling at El Paraguas, the enormous umbrella-like fountain near the entrance. It’s one of the finest museums in the world, full stop.
Escape to Chapultepec Park
Mexico City has a reputation for being crowded, hectic and, unfortunately, polluted. But walk through the expansive Chapultepec Park (Bosque de Chapultepec) and you’ll nearly forget you’re in one of the largest cities on earth.
The park is massive, home to museums, monuments and secluded corners you won’t fully exhaust in a single visit.
Do
First time there, tour the gorgeous Chapultepec Castle high on its hill, then swing by the National Museum of Anthropology nearby.
See the Murals at the Palacio de Bellas Artes
This isn’t just one of my favourite spots in CDMX, it’s one of the top cultural attractions in the entire country. The architecture outside is primarily Art Nouveau, giving way to a breathtaking Art Deco interior that showcases some of the finest muralwork in the world. Gigantic, expertly crafted murals by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros and other greats make this an unmissable stop.
Catch the Mariachi on Plaza Garibaldi
Plaza Garibaldi is perhaps the most famous square in Mexico for live Mariachi, and you could happily lose an evening to the music and the festive bars around the plaza. It’s a well-known tourist hub and gets crowded, the restaurants are a little pricey, and pickpocketing picks up later at night, so keep an eye on your things. Do your homework on where to eat (the gloriously over-the-top Guadalajara de Noche is a good shout) and you’re in for a brilliant night.
Stand in the Heart of the City at the Zócalo
Since the Aztecs ruled what was then Tenochtitlán, the Zócalo has been the focal point of Mexico City. Also known as the Plaza de la Constitución, this enormous square flies a giant Mexican flag at its centre and is ringed by some of the most impressive architecture in the city, including the National Palace and the Old Portal de Mercaderes.
The most famous landmark here, the Templo Mayor, wasn’t excavated until the late 1970s and lays bare the long-buried Aztec heart of the city. Best of all, wandering the square and soaking up the contrast between Aztec ruins and Spanish colonial grandeur costs nothing at all.
Hunt Out Ancient Mayan Ruins
You could easily plan a trip to Mexico and spend the entire time exploring ancient Maya ruins, and I wouldn’t blame you. There are so many extraordinary archaeological sites, and we learn more about them every year.
My favourites? If it’s your first time, Chichén Itzá is a must, home to the iconic Kukulcán Pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors and the Great Ball Court. Cobá, near Tulum, is another popular choice, with a steep pyramid you can still hike up. Tulum’s own ruins are on a smaller scale, but still worth visiting, as are the region’s hidden Muyil Ruins, which receive a fraction the number of visitors as their more famous cousins down the road.
And lesser-known sites like Dzibilchaltún, Calakmul (prepare for an epic jungle drive) and Edzná offer all the wonder with a fraction of the crowds.
Read Next
For the full rundown, see our guide to the most famous landmarks in Mexico.
Snorkel or Dive in a Cenote
Exploring cenotes, the Yucatán’s natural freshwater sinkholes, was a bucket-list item for me, and I packed in as many as I could on my last trip to the peninsula.
But which is best? If you only have time for one, make it Cenote Cristalino, with its crystal-blue water, diving platforms and pristine jungle backdrop. If you have time for more (trust me, make time), Gran Cenote, Dos Ojos and Cenote Carwash are all crowd-pleasers. Floating in that impossibly clear water, shafts of light cutting down through the rock, is one of the most magical things you can do in Mexico.
See a Different Side of Tulum
Tulum has become a byword for boho-luxe beach life, but there’s far more to it than influencer hotspots. Here’s how I’d spend my time.
Party Under the Stars
If you’re visiting Mexico to dance the night away, Tulum’s beach clubs and nightlife are famous for good reason. Stroll the Beach Zone and the party will find you. Big names range from the world-famous Casa Jaguar to the unassuming Batey Mojito and Guarapo Bar, where a laid-back spot turns into a great live-music venue at night. I’ll let you in on a secret: the Ciel Rosé Sunset Bar is my favourite place to drink in all of Tulum, and the rooftop views are just a bonus.
Hike to the Muyil Ruins
On my last visit to the Muyil Ruins I felt like Lara Croft picking my way through the jungle, and the walk is well worth the effort. Tucked inside the Sian Ka’an reserve just south of Tulum, Muyil is nothing like as crowded as Chichén Itzá or Cobá, but it’s every bit as mesmerising.
This ancient Maya trading post dates to the Pre-Classic period and is believed to have been a hub of commerce between the Maya and other Mesoamerican cultures. Hire a guide and take a boat tour through the lagoon and mangroves while you’re there, and keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles, manatees and exotic birds.
Wander the Tulum Archaeological Site
While not as vast as other famous sites in Mexico, nothing compares to the location of the Tulum Ruins, perched on a cliff above the Caribbean. You’ll explore an ancient city dating back to the 1200s and gaze out at the sea from the clifftop Castillo. Bring your swimsuit, because the little beach below the ruins is spectacular.
Step Into the Jungle Fantasy of Azulik Uh May
Mexican art never ceases to amaze me, and this modern example is set deep in the jungle about 45 minutes from Tulum. Azulik Uh May is the brainchild of Roth (Eduardo Neira), who also created the luxe resort of the same name nearby, and every part of it is designed to be environmentally conscious.
It’s one of my favourite places in the area: a compelling, slightly surreal display of towering thatched roofs, gnarled vines and whimsical concrete that fuses nature with human design.
Do
Bring your wallet, as admission is currently around £16 ($20).
Take the Train Through Copper Canyon
Visiting Copper Canyon in the Sierra Madre Occidental is a dream for hikers, with trails leading past archaeological sites, forests, petroglyphs and hot springs. But the showstopper is El Chepe, the train that winds through this canyon system, four times larger than the Grand Canyon, across more than three dozen bridges and 80-plus tunnels, pausing at charming villages along the way. Is there a more scenic train ride anywhere in the world? I struggle to think of one.
Immerse Yourself in the Culture of Oaxaca
Oaxaca is one of the great cultural and culinary corners of Mexico, renowned for its diverse indigenous heritage, its markets and, above all, its food. I could spend a whole trip here alone.
Get Lost in an Oaxacan Street Market
Oaxaca’s indigenous cultures mean some fantastic markets, brimming with food, handmade crafts and clothing you won’t find anywhere else. Mercado 20 de Noviembre is well known, and the tantalising aromas of the Pasillo de Humo (the aisle of smoke) will lead you straight to it.
Mercado de Abastos is another bustling food market with hand-crafted souvenirs, and one of the largest in the city.
Top Tip
For a hidden gem, don’t sleep on the Mercado de Artesanías de Oaxaca, a smaller market full of artisanal women’s clothing that may have you reaching for a second tote bag.
Sample Mezcal Straight from the Source
Let me put you on to another boozy thing to do in Mexico: mezcal. It’s similar to tequila, but where tequila is made strictly from the Blue Weber agave, mezcal can be made from any number of agave varieties, which is part of what makes it so endlessly varied.
Head to downtown Oaxaca City and the original location of the excellent In Situ Mezcalería, where you’ll find small-batch, expertly made mezcal poured by genuinely knowledgeable bartenders in a relaxed space.
Take a Oaxacan Cooking Class
One of my favourite memories in all of Mexico is taking a class with a trained chef and making carne asada tacos from scratch. First you shop the incredible Oaxacan markets with an expert guide, which takes ingredient-shopping to a whole new level, then you head back to the kitchen to learn the dishes that have made Oaxaca world-famous. Bring your appetite and take notes.
Hike to the Petrified Falls of Hierve el Agua
While it’s hard to resist simply eating your way around Oaxaca, Hierve el Agua is the perfect way to add some fresh air and physical activity to your trip. The hike to these “petrified waterfalls”, vast rock formations created over millennia by mineral-rich water, rewards you with incredible vistas, and the mineral pools at the top are a glorious place to swim while gazing out over the valley.
Top Tip
Don’t forget your swimsuit for the hot springs.
Whale Watch in Los Cabos
Go Whale Watching in Cabo San Lucas
If you want the best thing to do in Mexico while chasing winter sun, whale watching is an easy choice. The season generally runs late November to April, when you can spot humpbacks, orcas and enormous blue whales. You might even catch sight of them from your hotel or the beach, but for the best chance, get out on the water on a catamaran.
Wander San José del Cabo
Just along the coast from Cabo San Lucas, the smaller, more laid-back San José del Cabo is well worth a stop, starting at its pretty Main Square. The Thursday art walk is a wonderful free thing to do (tip your guide), and you can happily window-shop and people-watch around the square. When hunger strikes, and it will, there are plenty of affordable spots to eat.
Discover the Treasures of Mérida and the Yucatán
Soak up Culture in Mérida
Brightly coloured buildings, delicious cuisine, underrated museums and first-rate art galleries are a few things that stand out when you visit Mérida. And this isn’t a small town you can wrap your head around with a single-day trip. In fact, I was so in love with the capital of the Yucatán that I actually scheduled a second stay during my five weeks in Mexico.
So what are some can’t-miss locations in Mérida? The Catedral de Mérida is one of my top things to see in all of Mexico, a prime example of Spanish Renaissance design, while the grand Paseo de Montejo showcases the city’s unique architecture and is a great place to eat and drink.
Speaking of which, Wayan’e and Chilakillas serve excellent and affordable renditions of classic tacos and chilaquiles respectively.
Top Tip
The secret about Mérida is well and truly out, so book ahead.
Take a Day Trip to Uxmal
One of the best day trips from Mérida is Uxmal, and the moment you see its Maya pyramids you’ll understand why it’s such a highlight. Bring good walking shoes, as you can climb several of the structures here, though you’ll have to admire the famous Pyramid of the Magician from below. Beyond the ruins, head out on the nature trail to spot the flora and fauna of the surrounding jungle.
Taste Tequila in Guadalajara
Tequila’s birthplace is in Jalisco, and Guadalajara is the gorgeous capital of this Mexican state renowned for neoclassical architecture, mariachi music and (most importantly) tequila.
Guadalajara is a magical city to explore, and when you’re done sightseeing (or in between stops), a cocktail or tequila neat is the perfect order. Cantina La Fuente is the most famous and a good choice, but you can also venture out and explore the vibrant cocktail scene.
Top Tip
Guadalajara does experience some crime, so I suggest staying in popular areas and heading back to your hotel earlier in the evening.
Explore the Lagoons and Beaches at Sian Ka’an Nature Reserve
Of course, I couldn’t write an article about the best things to do in Mexico without mentioning the beaches. I could go on all day about the diverse coastline across Mexico that covers parts of the Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.
Want to find some of the most secluded beaches in the country? Head to Sian Ka’an, and you’ll see immaculate beaches worthy of an entire afternoon. But as hard as it is to leave the white sands, you’ll be happy you did when you explore the cenotes, lagoon and mangrove forests surrounding the biosphere.
Top Tip
You can drive into the park from one of two entrance points (spend a day on each side), but I recommend going with a guide when swimming the lagoons for the smoothest overall experience (crocodiles are a thing here).
Tour the Pyramids at Teotihuacán
Teotihuacán should be on every serious traveller’s list, and it’s only an hour from Mexico City. Crucially, despite a common misconception, this was not an Aztec city, it predates the Aztec Empire by many centuries and was built by a civilisation whose identity remains a mystery; it was the Aztecs who later named it.
Take your time exploring the Temple of Quetzalcóatl, the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon and the long Avenue of the Dead that links them. Learning the history from a guide genuinely adds to the experience.
Spend a Few Nights On Isla Holbox
If you’re in Cancún and craving a proper escape, with white-sand beaches, world-class snorkelling and birdwatching, head to Isla Holbox. Luxury-meets-laid-back accommodation, gorgeous beaches like Playa Mosquito, and flamingos everywhere are just a few reasons this little island keeps drawing more visitors. It’s also home to some of the best underwater adventures in Mexico, and if you visit during whale shark season, you’re in for the experience of a lifetime.
Snorkel the Reefs of Cozumel
If you find yourself on the enchanting island of Cozumel, you need to get in the water. Cozumel is famous for the coral reefs at Playa Palancar, where you might see sea turtles, nurse sharks and tropical fish in every colour imaginable. Bring your own gear and you can explore the shallows off the white-sand beaches as a brilliant free activity, or book a guided trip out to the best spots along the reef.
Explore Puerto Vallarta
Dive Into the Dining Scene
Puerto Vallarta is world-famous for its beaches, rightly so, but the food is every bit as impressive, drawing on the ingredients of the ocean and the mountains nearby. The seafood is some of the best anywhere: order Pescado Zarandeado, a grilled fish marinated in spices and chiles, whenever you spot it. Not into seafood? The steak and bean tacos are excellent too. Blue Shrimp, Café des Artistes and Tuna Azul are among the top tables in town.
Hit the Beaches
Puerto Vallarta also happens to be a charming place to do very little, with some of Mexico’s best beaches. For free days in the sun, Bay of Banderas and Playa de los Muertos are two of the most popular (despite the slightly unnerving name attached to the latter’s conquistador history), while the Malecón boardwalk is a lively spot for ocean views and people-watching that won’t cost you a peso.
Unique Things to See & Do in Mexico: Hidden Gems That Are Off the Beaten Track
Visit a Mezcal Distillery in Oaxaca State
There are plenty of places you can sample mezcal when visiting Oaxaca (and you should), but there’s nothing quite like getting it straight from the source.Enter Palenque Gracias a Dios Mezcal. For around £9, you can book a tour where you learn about the process of making mezcal for expert Oscar Hernández. Then, cap it off with a mezcal tasting and try the agave-based gin. Seek out the rarer offerings at the bar, the GAD Sierra Negra is a personal favourite.
Explore Colourful Campeche
One of my favourite things to do in Mexico that you maybe haven’t heard of is exploring the brilliant colonial city of Campeche.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of architectural surprises (the Ex Templo de San José made me do a double take) and has a relaxed yet exciting vibe all its own. Boutique hotels, delicious food and great spots for sundowners make the Rainbow City a wonderful place to spend a night or two.
Read Next
For more, see my guide to Campeche
Stop by Mercado del Pueblo in Sayulita
Known for excellent surf, beautiful beaches and affordable boutique hotels, Sayulita is no longer a well-kept secret, but it’s still got plenty of charm. While you’re there, visit Mercado del Pueblo, a local women-run market with a focus on sustainability and wellness-minded crafts and food. Check the schedule online, as the hours and location may vary.
Visit the Churches Near San Cristobal de las Casas
San Cristobal de las Casas is a spot I only discovered thanks to a friend’s tip, San Cristóbal de las Casas is a small highland town with a large indigenous presence and a deeply unique character.
There are two beautiful churches in town well worth the hike up for the views, but the one that truly stood out for me was Iglesia de San Juan in nearby Chamula, a short drive away. Here, a remarkable fusion of Catholicism and indigenous tradition plays out: worshippers ward off evil with thousands of candles, small fires and, extraordinarily, by drinking fizzy drinks to expel negative energy through burping. I’ve seen some unique places, and this ranks right at the top.
Explore the Art Galleries at Todos Santos
I just can’t get enough of Mexican art, and I’m not even mad about it. The small coastal town of Todos Santos, on the Baja California peninsula, draws travellers from nearby Cabo San Lucas for its boutique hotels, challenging surf and superb shopping. The town began as a mission and has become a magnet for artists and creatives, establishing it as one of the best places in the country to find unique art to take home. The Gabo Art Gallery and Studio is my first stop, with the Jill Logan Gallery, Galería Indigo and Todos Santos Gallery close behind.
Wander the Streets of San Miguel de Allende
If you love smaller towns big on character, San Miguel de Allende is one of the top places to see in Mexico. The colonial town sits in Guanajuato, about four hours from Mexico City, but the baroque architecture and cobbled streets make it worth the distance for history lovers and photographers alike.
Highlights include the fairytale Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, stunning inside and out, and the central square, El Jardín. It’s a wonderful place to people-watch and listen to musicians in a genuinely idyllic setting.
Walk Around Cholula
Most people know Cholula for the Great Pyramid, and rightly so: by volume, Tlachihualtepetl is the largest pyramid in the world, though you’d never guess it, since it’s grown over into a grassy hill topped by a church rather than a bare stone structure. But my favourite thing to do in Cholula is simply to walk around and eat. In season, try chiles en nogada, a meat-stuffed poblano chile under a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds, and any time of year, sample the famed mole poblano near where it was created.
Things to do in Mexico: Practical Tips for Your Trip
Read Next
For a full breakdown, see our guide on the best time to visit Mexico.
