Archaeological discoveries? Check. Flavorful cuisine? You betcha. Breathtaking beaches and lush jungles? Oh yeah. Charming towns and vibrant cities? Yup. This south-of-the-border nation has it all!
11 Popular Mexico Destinations You’ll Want to Visit
Updated on Aug. 19, 2024
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Cancun
Among the popular Mexico vacation spots, Cancun has a reputation as party central—and deservedly so. It’s flush with all-inclusive resorts that serve bebidas (drinks) from a.m. to p.m. And the clubs in Zona Hotelera are a favorite among spring-breakers looking for booze-fueled fun. But there’s more to Cancun than drinking and dancing. Notably, there are plenty of recreational activities and family-oriented properties too. And with the Mayan museum and ruins just a short drive away, you can treat kids to an eye-opening day trip that might even be one of the vacations that even your jaded teenagers will enjoy.
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San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende, in Mexico’s central highlands, is a colonial-era charmer with enchanting architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, a thriving art scene, and romantic ambiance. This expat-friendly city also has admirable accommodations such as Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada and Casa Wabi, superb chef-driven restaurants, and artisan shops. If that wasn’t enough, San Miguel de Allende hosts a number of noteworthy cultural festivals throughout the year.
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Tulum
It’s true that Tulum is one of the Mexico destinations with the most hype. But, honestly, it’s all warranted. This chill coastal town is pure paradise. Eco-luxe hotels, bars, restaurants, and boutiques dot Boca Paila, the road separating the ocean and jungle. Savor tasty tacos at Safari and Taqueria La Eufemia. Rent a bike and ride to the ancient ruins of El Castillo and Parque Nacional Tulum. Indulge in traditional pampering treatments at Yäan Wellness. Or book an excursion to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.
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Cabo San Lucas
This longtime holiday hotspot hasn’t lost its sparkle over the years. On the contrary, Cabo San Lucas’s star shines brighter than ever. The town’s sport-fishing, buzzing nightlife, and yacht-filled marina continues to be a major draw. It also flaunts fabulous restaurants and high-end lodgings like Hacienda Encantada, Montage Los Cabos, and The Resort at Pedregal, which has one of the most amazing infinity pools on the planet.
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Mérida
The capital of the Yucatán Peninsula is steeped in Spanish colonial heritage, but it hasn’t lost its deep Mayan roots. The heart of its historic center is Plaza de la Independencia, bordered by Mérida Cathedral and Iglesia de la Tercera Orden. The city has more to offer than a look at the past. Museo Fernando García Ponce-Macay displays a collection of contemporary Yucatecán art. And then there’s Paseo de Montejo, Mérida’s rendition of the Champs-Élysées in Paris, a wide boulevard with leafy trees, cafés, and 19th-century mansions turned hotels, which are definitely unique accommodations you’ll want to go out of your way to visit.
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Playa del Carmen
One of the most popular Mexico vacation spots, Playa del Carmen is situated between the chaos of Cancun and the tranquility of Tulum. Its palm-fringed beaches are indeed as lovely as you’ve heard. Coral reefs provide a surfeit of opportunists for snorkeling and scuba diving. The epicenter of Playa del Carmen is Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) with shopping, dining, and entertainment. The Frida Kahlo Museum is dedicated to the life and work of the famed Mexican artist. Travelling to Mexico? You won’t find these popular “Mexican” foods.
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Cozumel
Off the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, in the Caribbean Sea, is an idyllic island with long stretches of powder-soft sand, lively nightlife, and world-class dive sites unlike any you’ll see in other Mexico destinations. Don’t confuse laid-back with boring—there’s nothing humdrum about Cozumel. Sign up for scuba lessons, swim with dolphins at Chankanaab National Park, or spend the afternoon exploring the Mayan ruins of El Cedral. And if you’d love to check out some Mexico vacation spots but are worried about safety, it turns out Mexico is actually one of the countries to travel to that are safer than you think.
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Valladolid
Valladolid is a bastion of history with cobbled lanes, Spanish arcades, 16th-century churches, convents, and colorful colonial facades. Feast your eyes on Mexican folk art at Casa de los Venados. Chow down on authentic Yucatán fare at the family-run eateries. Keep in mind, Valladolid’s inland location means no ocean breeze. So, it can get mighty hot. Need to cool down? Take a dip in the freshwater cenotes scattered throughout the city.
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Mexico City
Even among other Mexico destinations, Mexico City is a hub of art, culture, and cuisine. Residents will tell you that it’s all about food and fun. Not surprisingly, both the nightlife and culinary scene are el fuego. Equally exciting are the array of places to stay. Our top pick? InterContinental Presidente Mexico City, which flaunts 700 impeccably designed guests rooms and suites. Plus, it’s within walking distance of some of the most important attractions, such as the Museo Nacional de Antropologia and Museo de Arte Moderno.
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Puerto Vallarta
Made famous by Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, Puerto Vallarta continues to lure travelers years later as one of the most popular Mexico vacation spots. Not that we’re surprised. You can’t beat its dazzling shores and sparkling waters. From snorkeling day trips to strolling the malecón (boardwalk) and bopping into handicraft stands, there’s more than enough to keep you busy all day. And when the sun goes down, Old Vallarta comes alive with bars, lounges, and clubs. If you like Puerto Vallarta (and who doesn’t?), take a peek at these stunning spots on Mexico’s Pacific Coast.
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Isla Mujeres
The antidote to the hordes of tourists in Cancun? A low-key island 20 minutes by ferry across the Bahia de Mujeres (Bay of Women). Locals are warm and easygoing. Golf carts are the preferred mode of transport on Isla Mujeres. No-fuss eateries along the main drag serve fresh seafood sans attitude or crowds while neighboring watering holes mix up strong margaritas. Beautiful beaches, coral reefs, a sea turtle sanctuary, and the remains of a Mayan temple round out its allure. It’s never too early to plan your next trip.
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