25 Best Tourist Places in Mexico, which is a highly sought-after destination for vacations, attracting more than 20 million international tourists annually. Renowned for its tequila, the Aztecs and the Mayas, Salma Hayek, Day of the Dead, drug wars, Lucha libre, Corona beer, and the beach resorts along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, Mexico caters to the preferences of all types of travelers.
With its Pre-Columbian ruins, historic colonial towns, pristine white beaches, and vast canyons, this country offers a diverse range of activities for visitors to enjoy. To discover the best places to explore, we recommend consulting our curated list of Mexico’s top tourist attractions.
Great Pyramid of Cholula
The Great Pyramid of Cholula, located outside of Puebla, is an archaeological site housing the largest pyramid in the world. Referred to as Tlachihualtepetl, it was constructed in four stages, with the initial phase commencing 2,300 years ago. Although much of the pyramid is now covered in vegetation, it gives the impression of a natural hill with a Catholic church at its summit, known as the “Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios.” Built by the Spanish in 1594, this church offers visitors the opportunity to explore over four miles of underground tunnels, providing a glimpse into the immense size and grandeur of this remarkable landmark.
El Malecon is one of the 25 Best Tourist Places in Mexico
El Malecon, also known as the boardwalk in Puerto Vallarta, is a stunning promenade that runs along the Pacific Ocean. The majority of the boardwalk is designated for pedestrians, ensuring a secure environment for taking pictures and enjoying the breathtaking scenery. The boardwalk is adorned with sculptures, and the beach often features intricate sand art.
Additionally, there are numerous local businesses that cater to tourists, providing opportunities to purchase handmade souvenirs, indulge in fresh seafood, or sip on tropical cocktails at a nearby bar. Visitors can leisurely stroll along El Malecon, stopping at various points of interest along the way.
Uxmal
Uxmal, an ancient Mayan city located in Mexico, holds immense historical and cultural importance. Situated approximately 55 km (35 miles) to the south of Merida in Yucatan, this city was predominantly built during the ninth century. Uxmal served as the capital of the region and stands as a remarkable representation of Puuc architecture.
The pyramid structures at Uxmal exhibit a majestic allure, owing to their various stone levels and intricate stonework. Among these structures, the Magician’s Pyramid, the tallest of its kind in Uxmal, is an absolute must-see.
Zipolite
Zipolite, situated along the Pacific Coast in the Oaxaca region, is a one-mile beach that exudes a progressive, hippie vibe. Although it used to be a nude beach in the past, it is now less common. Zipolite is a popular destination for travelers seeking a counter-culture atmosphere, and it still maintains an authentic Mexican ambiance despite the influx of tourists from all over the world. In addition to the beach, Zipolite is renowned for Av Roca Blanca, a street adjacent to the beach that features bars, shops, and cafes.
Museo Nacional de Antropologia
The National Museum of Anthropology, also known as the Museo Nacional de Antropologia, holds the distinction of being Mexico’s largest and most frequented museum. Situated within the picturesque Chapultepec Park in Mexico City, this museum proudly showcases a vast assortment of artifacts and displays that delve into the pre-Columbian legacy of the nation. Among its notable treasures are the remarkable Mayan and Aztec artifacts, including the renowned Stone of the Sun, which serves as the authentic Aztec calendar stone.
El Tajin
El Tajín, a significant city on the gulf coast, was established by the Classic Veracruz culture. The majority of the structures within the vicinity were built between 600 – 900 AD. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the jungle, these remnants are thought to have served as the hub for political and administrative affairs of the entire civilization.
In the present day, tourists have the opportunity to witness over 150 recognized edifices, albeit only a few of them are restored and accessible to the public at any given moment. Particularly noteworthy is the Pyramid of Niches, which stands as the most remarkable construction within the site.
San Ignacio Lagoon
San Ignacio Lagoon in Mexico stands out as the most remarkable destination for whale watching. Situated along the coast of Baja California Sur, this lagoon serves as a winter haven for numerous Eastern Pacific gray whales.
Throughout the winter season, these gray whales migrate to the shallower areas of the lagoon to give birth. As a result, San Ignacio Lagoon has become the largest wildlife sanctuary in Latin America. Visitors have the opportunity to embark on guided boat tours, enabling them to intimately experience the presence of these majestic gray whales.
Bonampak Murals
Bonampak, located in the state of Chiapas, is an archaeological site that boasts numerous Mayan structures. However, the Temple of Murals is the most renowned among them. It houses the Bonampak Murals, a set of ancient artworks that provide insights into the Mayan history and culture. The murals, painted in bold turquoise, red, and yellow shades, depict hundreds of figures across three rooms, each narrating a part of a story.
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres, an island located just eight miles from Cancun, is surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. This island is not only a popular tourist destination but also holds great cultural significance for the region. Isla Mujeres, which means the island of women in English, was considered sacred by the Mayan civilization as it was believed to be the dwelling place of the goddess of childbirth.
Nowadays, visitors can take a ferry from Cancun to reach this beautiful island and enjoy its picturesque beaches, explore the local turtle farm, indulge in scuba diving or snorkeling in the pristine waters, or simply unwind in a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of Cancun’s crowded beaches.
Santa Prisca Church in Taxco
The Santa Prisca Church, also known as El Templo de Santa Prisca, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture situated in the city of Taxco. Constructed during the 18th century, this colonial masterpiece was commissioned by a wealthy Spanish mine owner. The church is made of pink stone and features two impressive towers and intricate tile work. It is a must-see for anyone interested in architecture. The interior is equally impressive, with nine massive altarpieces adorned in gold that stretch from the floor to the ceiling.
Acapulco Cliff Divers
Acapulco, the first Mexican resort town, gained popularity in the 1950s as a vacation spot for Hollywood celebrities and wealthy individuals. Witnessing the cliff divers’ breathtaking jumps into the ocean is an essential part of any Acapulco visit. Although the divers are now professionals, they have been performing since the 1930s. You can observe the dives from a small platform near the cliff for a nominal fee or dine at La Perla restaurant, which provides an excellent view of the divers.
Cenote Dos Ojos
Cenote Dos Ojos, located near Tulum, boasts one of Mexico’s most expansive underwater cave systems. Its name, which translates to “the cavern of two eyes,” alludes to the two sinkholes that are linked by a lengthy passageway.
The crystal-clear water in these caverns is meticulously filtered by limestone. Consequently, Cenote Dos Ojos attracts a large number of snorkelers and avid scuba divers alike. Some adventurous divers even venture deep into the submerged caverns to explore their hidden wonders.
Catedral Metropolitana
Mexico City offers a plethora of activities, sights, and discoveries, but one attraction that stands out is the Catedral Metropolitana. Undoubtedly, this cathedral holds the title of being the oldest and largest in Latin America, and its presence looms over the city’s central plaza, the Zocalo.
The architectural marvel of the Catedral Metropolitana is a fusion of various styles, with notable influences from baroque and Mexican churrigueresque design. Beyond its architectural grandeur, this cathedral also houses an impressive art collection and even catacombs beneath its main structure.
Guanajuato
Guanajuato, a stunning colonial city, is nestled in the mountains of the Sierra de Guanajuato. Its foundation in 1554 was strategically placed next to one of Mexico’s most prosperous silver mining regions. The mining boom of the 16th century resulted in the creation of magnificent haciendas and exquisite colonial structures.
The streets of Guanajuato, along with its vibrant alleyways, extend in various directions. However, the majority of the city’s traffic is efficiently managed through an intricate network of underground tunnels, making it an ideal destination for pedestrians.
Dias des los Muertos, Oaxaca
Oaxaca, renowned for its exceptional Dia de Los Muertos festivities, is a city in Mexico that celebrates this holiday along with various other regions in Latin America. The origins of this festival can be traced back thousands of years to indigenous cultures like the Zapotec and Aztec. In Oaxaca, the Day of the Dead Festival commences towards the end of October, as families begin to prepare the tombs for the arrival of the spirits. During this period, both tombs and home altars are adorned with flowers, while families leave offerings for the spirits at the cemeteries.
Cozumel
Cozumel, situated near the Yucatan Peninsula, is renowned for its appeal to scuba divers and snorkelers. In 1959, Jacques Cousteau explored the underwater realm surrounding Cozumel and hailed it as one of the finest diving spots globally. Consequently, Cozumel was designated as a National Marine Park to safeguard the exquisite coral reefs and diverse array of tropical fish that inhabit its waters.
El Arco
El Arco, located in Cabo San Lucas, is a remarkable arch that signifies the transition from the Pacific Ocean to the Gulf of California. This distinctive rock formation has become a symbol of Cabo San Lucas and offers various perspectives for admiration. Taking a leisurely walk along the beach presents the chance to capture breathtaking photographs of El Arco, while also providing stunning vistas of the azure waters, the playful gray whales that often grace the ocean, and other captivating rock formations lining the coastline.
Palenque
Palenque, situated in the state of Chiapas, Mexico, was an archaeological site positioned on the western periphery of the Maya empire. Despite its smaller size compared to other Mayan cities, Palenque boasts remarkable architecture and sculptures that showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of the Maya civilization. The majority of structures in Palenque were constructed between 600 AD and 800 AD, encompassing notable landmarks such as the Temple of Inscriptions, which stands as the sole Mesoamerican pyramid designed as a funerary monument.
Copper Canyon
Version 1: The Copper Canyon comprises a series of canyons that collectively surpass the size of the Grand Canyon. The “Chihuahua al Pacifico” Railway is the preferred means of discovering the Copper Canyon, traversing 37 bridges and 86 tunnels, reaching elevations of up to 2,400 meters (7,900 feet) above sea level, and offering breathtaking vistas of the canyons below.
Tulum
Tulum is located on the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, serving as the primary port for the Mayan city of Coba in the past. Constructed around 1200 AD during the decline of the Mayan civilization, Tulum may not possess the same level of grace as other renowned sites.
Nevertheless, the breathtaking tropical beach setting transforms it into an extraordinary and unmissable destination. Tulum offers a diverse range of accommodations, ranging from modest cabanas to opulent 5-star luxury resorts.
Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza, located in the Yucatan Peninsula, stands as the largest among the Maya cities and is highly regarded as one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations. The temple-pyramid of El Castillo, a renowned landmark within Chichen Itza, holds immense significance in terms of its astronomical design.
Notably, each side of the pyramid features a staircase consisting of 91 steps. When combined with the shared step at the pinnacle, these steps amount to a total of 365, symbolizing the number of days in a year. Additionally, Chichen Itza boasts other notable attractions such as the Great Ballcourt and El Caracol, a circular temple that functioned as an astronomical observatory.
Teotihuacan[SEE MAP]
During the 2nd century BC, a new civilization emerged in the valley of Mexico, giving rise to the magnificent city of Teotihuacán and its colossal pyramids. Among these structures, the Pyramid of the Sun, constructed around 100 AD, stands as the largest pyramid in both Teotihuacán and the entirety of Mexico. A century later, the construction of the smaller Pyramid of the Moon commenced, reaching completion in 450 AD.
Following the decline of the Teotihuacán empire, the pyramids continued to hold significance and were revered by the Aztecs, serving as a revered pilgrimage site. Located just 31 miles (50km) northeast of Mexico City, Mesoamerica’s grandest city can be easily accessed by bus or taxi.
Monte Alban
Monte Alban, also known as White Mountain, served as the former capital of the Zapotec civilization. Situated above the Valley of Oaxaca, Monte Alban stands as a prominent archaeological site in Mexico. Apart from offering breathtaking vistas of the valley, tourists will have the opportunity to witness the remnants of structures scattered across a wide, level hilltop terrace called the Gran Plaza, which stretches from north to south.
At either end of the grand plaza, two expansive pyramid mounds mark its termination, while the periphery of the area is adorned with stepped platforms and terraces.
San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende, a charming colonial town nestled in the Bajio mountains of Central Mexico, boasts a rich history. Established by a San Franciscan Monk, the city played a significant role in the Mexican War of Independence against Spain and was a crucial stop on the Mexican silver trail. Nowadays, San Miguel de Allende is renowned for its stunning colonial architecture and picturesque cobblestone streets.
Visitors can marvel at the pink Teatro Angela Peralta and the Santuario de Atotonilco, a vast church complex, which are some of the city’s top tourist destinations.
Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve
The Monarch Butterfly migration, which occurs annually, is a remarkable natural phenomenon and a major draw for tourists visiting the central highlands of Mexico. Every year, millions of Monarch Butterflies embark on a remarkable journey from eastern Canada to the forests of western central Mexico, covering a distance of up to 3,000 miles.
During the winter hibernation period, these Monarch butterflies gather in concentrated clusters within the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Michoacan, before commencing their northward migration once again.
