Best Things to See and Do in Mexico for First Timers

by | Last updated Dec 30, 2023 | Caribbean, Mexico, Central + South America, Live Work Play Travel

When I think of Mexico it conjures up many images. Tacos, Mayan ruins, Mariachi bands and beach resorts. When you spend a couple of weeks, or longer in Mexico and dig deeper into this amazing country, you will discover some amazing things. If you want to get off the well-worn ‘gringo’ path, with the help of some of the world’s best travel bloggers, I’ve put together this list of some of the best things to see and do on any visit to Mexico. Are you ready to be inspired to organise your next trip to Mexico?

 

TIP: don’t visit Mexico without checking if you need travel insurance. For shorter trips and holidays I choose WorldNomads. For extended travel and living and working abroad I like SafetyWing. 

 

Best Things to See and Do in Mexico?

 

Let’s start off with the capital city of Mexico.

 

Historic Center of Mexico City

Must Visit Place in Mexico of Soumya @ Stories by Soumya

 

Mexico City Cathedral in the old town.

 Mexico City has many old colonial buildings – Metropolitan Cathedral

 

One of the best spots in Mexico City is the Historic Center. Filled with impressive colonial buildings, an ancient Aztec temple, and a happening central plaza called the Zocalo, Mexico City’s Historic District is surely an interesting place to visit.

The remarkable Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the oldest and largest in Latin America, flanks the northern end of Zocalo. To the east, you’ll see the imposing façade of the National Palace, the seat of the Mexican government and home to many amazing murals by Diego Rivera. The Templo Mayor ruins dating the 14th century are right around the corner.

As you stroll through Avenida 5 de Mayo, you’ll come across several historic buildings and museums. Some of the most iconic ones include Palacio de Bellas Artes, Casa de los Azulejos, Torre Latinoamericana, and the Postal Palace.

The historic district is always a hub of activity and the main venue for events and festivities. If you’re visiting in October – November, be sure to catch the colorful Day of Dead celebrations at the Zocalo.

Without a doubt, the Historic Center, also a UNESCO world heritage site, is the throbbing heart of Mexico City.

 

Cancun

Favourite Beach Resort area of Mexico of Sharyn @ Travellers Fare Recipes

 

Conch Fritters, Typical Meal In Cancun, Mexico.

Conch on the menu in Cancun

 

Cancun is one of the hottest places in Mexico to visit. It is situated on the Yucatan Peninsula facing the Caribbean Sea and was once an alligator infested swamp. Nowadays it is a place for sun worshippers to enjoy golden sands and water sports in turquoise coloured waters. 

It is quite easy to laze your days away at your Cancun resort as they offer absolutely all the things you need for a holiday by the sea. But you should go into the main town and partake in great shopping and tasty food. This is where I discovered ‘conch’ – a tasty mollusc that when cooked with herbs and spices is a very yummy dish. And the nightlife can be whatever you want it to be. From fine dining to partying the night away in a nightclub.

And when you get tired of the beach you can go on a day tour to see the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza. Or visit some of the nearby towns such as Tulum or islands off the coast for great snorkelling or diving!

Definitely put a visit to Cancun on your bucket list for your holiday in Mexico.

 

Swim in a Cenote

Best thing to do in Mexico by Angela @ Where Angie Wanders

 

Mariposa Cenote in Mexico is one of the best cenotes to go swimming in Mexico. A must do and one of the best things to do in Mexico.

Mariposa open-air cenote

 

Without a doubt one of the most popular things to do on a holiday in Mexico is to visit and swim in one of the country’s cenotes. Formed from the collapse of limestone rocks these natural sinkhole swimming pools are a must for any visitor. In the area of Quintano Roo on the Yucatan Peninsula and close to the historic ruins of Tulum are quite a few cenotes. They range from huge open-air swim holes to those hidden inside caves. There’s even one with a resident crocodile that swims with guests.

Two favourite Tulum cenotes are Chen Ha and Mariposa located in Canamayte Eco Park. Once in the eco-park you can easily move between the two. Chen-Ha is an underground cave cenote with a small roof opening that lets in sunlight. The water is cold, clear and aqua blue and makes for a refreshing swim. Like most cenotes if you duck beneath the water you are able to see a black void where the river system runs throughout the cenotes. It’s a bit frightening not knowing what might be lurking beneath. But then again that’s half of the thrill of swimming in a cenote!

Mariposa is, in comparison to Chen Ha, a bigger cenote and completely open-air. It even has a few wooden swings for those all important instagram photographs. The water is clear and inviting and floating around on your back looking up at blue skies and wispy white clouds is pretty relaxing. Not many places in the world have cenotes and so to experience one for yourself is a must when holidaying in Mexico.

 

Guanajuato

Best place to visit in Mexico by Brandon @ Zimminaroundtheworld

 

Guanajuato City is a colourful Mexican City.

Guanajuato City View from El Pipila Statue

 

Guanajuato City or just Guanajuato, located about 240 miles or 390 kilometers northwest of Mexico City, is a cultural, historical, and vibrant city. The whole city of is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it is well preserved and taken care of. It is a medium sized city that deserves a minimum of one day to visit but two days is ideal to see the must visit sites and attractions.

Guanajuato City is a university town, in the heart of the city lies the beautiful steps to Universidad de Guanajuato. From here, you can get great views of the city. In front of the university is the Basilica of our Lady Guanajuato, one of the prettiest Basilicas in the region. For those that are more adventurous, a quick cab ride to the mountains surrounding the city are the mines that made Guanajuato famous. Today, visitors can explore the mines with a guided tour. Another must see attraction in Guanajuato is the Museo Exhacienda San Gabriel de Barrera. An estate owned by the Barrera family in the area. A visit to Guanajuato can’t be done without visiting the statue of El Pipila on top of the hill overlooking the city. You get the best views from this location.

For visitors that are into dark tourism, Guanajuato has one of the most morbid museums, Museo de las Momias. This museum is home to 59 mummies that are on display that died during a cholera outbreak in the mid 1800’s.

 

Ciudad Juarez

Favourite spots of Catrina @ 24 Hours Layover

 

Colourful buildings in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. Best things to see and do in Mexico.

typical street corner in Ciudad Juarez

 

Ciudad Juarez, located in the state of Chihuahua, is one of my favourite spots in Mexico! Whilst several years ago it was deemed one of the most dangerous cities in the world, today Juarez is a different place! It receives many tourists each year and has unique attractions and qualities that make it a great place to visit.

Ciudad Juarez is a border town, situated across the Rio Grande from El Paso, Texas, USA. Its location offers a fascinating blend of Mexican and American cultures, where you can experience the best of both worlds – enjoying the vibrant Mexican atmosphere while having easy access to American amenities. Plus, it’s very easy to cross the border from Ciudad Juarez into El Paso for a day trip.

Exploring Ciudad Juarez allows visitors to appreciate its architecture, history, and cultural sites. The Cathedral of Ciudad Juarez and the Museum of the Revolution in the Border are just two of the many interesting places that showcase the cultural heritage of Juarez.

Ciudad Juarez has a great culinary scene. Visitors can enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, including street tacos and enchiladas, as well as explore international dishes influenced by the city’s proximity to the USA.

Ciudad Juarez also offers a more affordable cost of living compared to many cities. Housing, transportation, and everyday expenses can be lower, making it an attractive option for expats and retirees. In addition, the people of Juarez are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness.

 

Merida

Favourite spot in Mexico of Smita @ Smita Bhattacharya

 

Palacio Municipal at night in Merida, Mexico. Best city in Mexico to visit.

Palacio Municipal at night

 

Merida, the capital of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, is a hidden gem that should be more widely known among tourists. Its location near various Mayan archaeological sites makes it an ideal base for exploring the region. Visitors can easily take day trips to popular destinations like Uxmal and Chichen Itza, as well as Cancun, Tulum, and Riviera Maya. 

Despite its many attractions, Merida remains a safe and walkable city with a tropical climate. The average annual temperature hovers around 28°C – 30°C, though it can get quite hot between March and May. To promote tourism in the area, the local municipality organizes free events each night in different parts of town. These events are a joy to attend and offer a glimpse into local culture. 

Merida is also home to several notable landmarks, including the impressive 16th-century Cathedral of Merida, one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas. Other popular attractions include the Spanish-style arched City Hall, known as Palacio Municipal, which still serves as the seat of the local government. The government palace of the state of Yucatan, Palacio de Gobierno, and Casa de Montejo, a colonial mansion built in the 16th century by the founders of Merida, the Montejo family, are also worth a visit.

 

Xochimilco

Favourite town of Summer @ Stand By for Summer 

 

Xochimilco, a favourite city to visit in Mexico.

The colorful Xochimilco trajineras

 

Venture to Xochimilco, a town 14 miles southwest of Mexico City. It’s known as the town of “floating gardens”, and it has the only canals left from a vast lake system covering Mexico City.

Visit this pre-colonial town and wind down the canals on colorful gondolas, known as trajineras. This is my favorite spot in Mexico because of its convenient location and fascinating boat ride. Get dropped off at any “embarcadero” point, and choose which boat you would like to take for your journey. Each of the boats has a unique name and is decorated differently.

A local will guide you along your two-hour journey, while you relax and admire all of the other beautiful boats on your path. Listen out for floating mariachi bands to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Food and drink vendors float up to your raft too, so settle in and enjoy the ride.

Sundays are the busiest and loudest, so avoid visiting that day if possible. Mention the Island of the Dolls to your driver, and glide path a deserted island full of baby dolls hanging from the trees.

This experience is unique and easy to add to any Mexico City itinerary. Once you see all of the colorful trajineras and hear the upbeat mariachi bands, you will understand why this is a must-visit destination in Mexico.

 

Isla Ixtapa

Favourite Mexican island spot of Janice @ Gather and Go Travel

 

Play Varadero on Ixtapa Island is a favourite spot to visit in Mexico.

Playa Varadero beach overlooking the Pacific and the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains of mainland Mexico

 

For travelers looking to explore beyond the beaches of oversize resorts, visit tiny Ixtapa Island. This island is a short one-mile water taxi away from the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo area of Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Great for a day trip.

Once there, step into a laid-back world with no cars or even roads. A dreamy destination where nearly every structure is open-air, designed to maximize its ocean and Sierra Madre del Sur mountain views.

Spend your day swimming in calm surf off one of three golden sand beaches. Or rent snorkel gear and explore independently or with a guide. Discover the pretty corals and colorful fish found in the crystalline waters off of Coral Beach.

And when you have built up an appetite, select one from any of the beachside restaurants and dig into local specialties like pescado a las brasas—grilled fish cooked over wood-fired stoves served whole, with fresh tortillas. Wash down your delicious meal with ice-cold beers or frothy pina coladas. All while your toes dig in soft sand, and you settle in to enjoy gentle breezes and the unreal Pacific Ocean views.

 

Puerto Vallarta

Favourite seaside city of Lisa @ Waves and Cobblestones

 

Brightly coloured pink building of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

colorful Puerto Vallarta

My favorite spot in Mexico is definitely Puerto Vallarta! This vibrant city on Mexico’s Pacific Coast has fantastic weather, delicious fresh local cuisine, happening nightlife, and beautiful beaches. But what really sets Puerto Vallarta apart from other locations in Mexico is its vibrant arts.

One of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta is to take a stroll down the Malecón (oceanfront boardwalk) and admire the fantastic public art. Take in the unique statues and intriguing sand sculptures as well as Puerto Vallarta’s iconic arches overlooking the ocean. As you walk through the city, you’ll be surrounded by pops of bright colors decorating everything from planters to statues to buildings.

One of the most colorful parts of Puerto Vallarta is the Parque Lázaro Cárdenas. This unique mosaic tile park is filled with dozens of brightly colored benches and columns. Admire the abstract swirls, bold geometric patterns, and lovely mosaic scenes adorning this park and making it a vibrant hub of the community.

 

Baja California Sur

Favourite Spot of Lucy and Dan @ Thoroughly Travel

 

Typical Mexican building in Baja California Sur. A great place to visit on a holiday to Mexico.

Nuestra Señora de La Paz

 

There are many beautiful destinations around the world, but Baja California Sur is our favourite spot in Mexico. A peninsula on the west coast of Mexico, Baja California Sur is blessed with year-round pleasant weather and is teeming with things to do and see.

Between December and April the west cost of Baja California Sur is home to one of the largest whale migrations in the world. Humpbacks perform dazzling acrobatics, while grey whales come inshore to mate and calve in protected lagoons. And on the east coast, nestled in the Sea of Cortez, the sleepy town of Loreto is perfect for seeing blue whales – the largest animal in the world. Loreto Bay National park is also a haven for divers and snorkellers. Hikers can enjoy Tabor Canyon or visit the ancient La Pinguica cave paintings. The vibrant capital city of Baja California Sur, La Paz is not to be missed. Home to colonial history and beautiful beaches, you can enjoy snorkel trips with sea lions and even tick swimming with whale sharks off your bucket list. Those looking for an adrenaline fix should head to Los Cabos. Cabo San Lucas is a popular spring break destination. While San José del Cabo has a more laidback and artistic vibe.

Baja California Sur is easily accessible via several international airports, including in La Paz and Los Cabos. Hiring a car is easy and a great way to get around. And the Autobuses Aguila are super affordable and connect all the major cities.

 

Todos Santos, Baja California

Favourite beach destination in Mexico of Daria @ the Discovery Hut

Typical Mexican building in Baja California Sur. A great place to visit on a holiday to Mexico.

Todos Santos is one of the most beautiful Pueblos Magic’s in Baja California Sur. It is a popular beach destination for travellers from all over the world. Located just under one hour away from Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos boasts year-round sunshine, fun history and wonderful outdoor opportunities like surfing, hiking and mountain biking.

Although Todos Santos might feel like a sleepy town, once you walk the streets of this charming pueblo, you will see that it’s full of life. Cozy cafes line the streets, and you can hear traditional Mexican music playing outside. Local vendors show their arts and crafts on the streets of Todos Santos. You can buy some cool trinkets at the local market where you can find home accessories, jewellery, textiles and other arts and crafts.

If you have more time, don’t miss out on the spectacular Punta Lobos hike offering incredible panoramic views of the Baja California coastline. Or head to Playa Cachorro for an epic sunset. This is a hidden gem located just outside of Todos Santos that can be reached by a quick drive or bike ride.

Overall, Todos Santos offers a perfect getaway from Cabo San Lucas. If you want to see more authentic Baja California and enjoy a more quiet atmosphere.

 

Grutas de Tolantongo

Best spot in Mexico of Shreya @ Where is Shreya

Hot pools of Grutus Tolantongo, Mexico.

Man-made thermal pools at Grutas de Tolantongo

Grutas de Tolantongo is truly a canyon oasis located in the Mezquital Valley about 4 hours north of Mexico City. Its bright turquoise thermal river against the rugged canyon offers a fantastic escape from reality. The Tolantongo River flows right alongside the canyon resort offering visitors a haven for relaxation in its mineral rich waters. Further up the river, visitors have the opportunity to explore a thermal waterfall with an intricate tunnel and cave system underneath. On the other side of the resort is a section of man-made pools overlooking the picturesque canyon, a perfect spot to catch sunrise.

Not only does this resort feature stunning photo opportunities, it also has 3 hotels located in various areas of the property. Reservations can only be made in person at the resort, however, camping gear is also available for rent. The resort has several options for food located throughout the park. From a grocery store to restaurants, there is no struggle to fix any cravings. The entire resort operates on a cash only basis so be sure to bring enough cash for the duration of your stay.

For those seeking a quick getaway in Mexico, Grutas de Tolantongo offers an enticing blend of relaxation and exploration in a unique yet enchanting landscape. It will surely forge unforgettable memories.

 

Teotihuacan

Favourite Mexican archaeological site of James @ Travel Collecting

 

Pyramid of the Moon, Teotihuacan archaeological centre in Mexico.

Pyramid of Teotihuacan

 

Teotihuacan is an incredible archaeological site just an hour out of Mexico City.  Built by an ancient civilization that very little is known about. The highlights of the site are two enormous pyramids, the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon. The Pyramid of the Moon lies at the end of a long avenue – the Avenue of the Dead. The avenue is lined on both sides with smaller temples, as well as the even larger Pyramid of the Sun.

At the other end of the site is the Citadel and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent (Quetzalcoatl). If you walk up to the top of the pyramid in the middle of the Citadel, there is a hidden temple that was built over, but has now been uncovered. This temple has amazing, well-preserved carvings that still have some of their original color intact. There’s a replica of this temple in the National Archaeological Museum, but seeing the original is even more awe-inspiring.

Allow a full day to do the site justice. It’s huge and you’ll do a lot of walking, and there is no shade, so wear a hat! Busses leave every 20 minutes or so for to San Juan Teotihuacan from the México Terminal Norte (North Bus Station). It’s also possible to take an Uber if you prefer not to take a bus.

Another super fun option is to take a hot air balloon ride over the pyramids. Seeing the site and the surrounding countryside from the air is mind blowing. Several companies offer sunrise balloon flights with pickups from hotels in Mexico City.

San Jose del Pacifico

Favourite town of Zoe @ Zoe Goes Places

 

San Jose del Pacifico a beautiful place to visit in Mexico.

San José del Pacifico: A small town with big views

 

Located high up in the mountains of Oaxaca mountains is the small town of San José del Pacifico. Perhaps most well-known for the availability of psychedelic magic mushrooms – thanks to indigenous use for healing – the town is also an incredible place for hiking and taking in mountain views. Sunrise and sunset are simply spectacular here.

For the best view in San Jose, climb up to the Mirador sign above the town. Although the altitude will make this hard work, you’ll get some of the best views around. Here, you can watch the clouds roll over the mountains and valleys. One minute you’ll see nothing but the inside of a cloud and the next you can see for miles and miles.

The altitude also makes it pretty chilly here, especially in the evenings. So, it’s the perfect place to gather around the fire, watch the sunset and sip hot drinks wrapped in a blanket.

Visiting this town is an absolute must-do when in Oaxaca, Mexico and there’s nowhere else quite like it!

 

Chacahua, Oaxaca

Favourite Mexican beach spot of Carryn @ Torn Tackies

 

Chacahua, Oaxaca is a popular place to visit in Mexico.

A Mexican secret

Chacahua, Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s best kept secrets. Nestled on the pacific coast, it’s a dreamy beach paradise that’s perfect for those looking to go off the beaten track.

The surf in Chacahua is what put it on the map in the first place. With its long right-hander break, Chacahua attracts surfers of all levels. But it’s worth a visit regardless of whether you’re here for the waves or not.

The beauty of Chacahua lies in its rugged and raw coastline that’s only accessible via a small boat. It’s an idyllic place to spend a few days disconnected from the outside world and reconnecting with nature. Picturesque sunsets from the jetty. Ice cold beers on the beach and fresh seafood feasts from local restaurants. Nothing says holiday mode more than Chacahua.

With no mobile phone signal and weak Wi-Fi, Chacahua is not the place to visit if you need to get work done. Instead, if it’s laid-back vibes you’re after, it doesn’t get better than this.

 

Valladolid

Favourite Mexican town of Mal @ Raw Mal Roams

 

City Square in Valladolid, Mexico. A cool city to visit in Mexico.

Town of Valladolid

 

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico, put Valladolid on your must-visit list. Located in Yucatan, between Merida and Tulum, this picturesque town offers an authentic Mexican feel, which you won’t find in other touristy places like Cancun or Tulum.

The colonial architecture that lines the streets of Valladolid is breathtakingly charming. It is a great base for visitors to explore the nearby Chichen Itza and the nearby cenotes, such as the Instagram-famous Cenote Suytun or super fun Cenote Oxman. Swimming in one of these unique sinkholes is an absolute must!

Valladolid is also a very safe town. In the evenings, families gather in the lively main square to mingle and enjoy the street foods on offer. Make sure you try marquesitas, which are crispy pancakes that come with various fillings, such as Nutella and fruit or savoury Philadelphia cheese.

For those who want to stay longer, there are many affordable Valladolid hotels and a fantastic food scene, which is a cherry on top for passionate foodies. Don’t miss Burrito Amor and Le Kaat located on Calzada de los Frailes. This picturesque walking street is lined with quirky cafes and boutiques.

 

Isla Mujeres

Favourite Mexican island spot of Victoria @ Guide Your Travel

 

White sand and blue water on a visit to Isla Majeres, Mexico.

White sand and pristine blue waters on Isla Mujeres

 

Isla Mujeres is a corner of paradise in the heart of Mexico’s Caribbean coast and my favourite place in Mexico! The island is just 13 kilometres off the northeast coast of the Yucatán peninsula. Accessible by a short ferry ride from Cancún, this island gem offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland.

Indeed, Isla Mujeres holds a special place in my heart. It harmoniously combines natural beauty, cultural richness and a laid-back atmosphere. Its superb white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant marine life make it a paradise for snorkelers and beach-goers. Its picturesque streets boast colourful houses, local markets and numerous restaurants serving authentic Mexican cuisine.

In addition, if you’re considering relocating to Mexico, Isla Mujeres offers a unique blend of relaxed lifestyle and employment opportunities in the tourism industry. The island’s charm, safety and friendly community make it an attractive destination for expats. Imagine waking up to the sound of gentle waves, spending your afternoons exploring the coral reefs and your evenings soaking up the local culture.

 

Bacalar

Favourite spot of Jessica @ Uprooted Traveler

 

Bacalar, Cenote in Mexico.

Pueblo Magico in the Yucatan Peninsula

 

If heading to the Maldives of Mexico sounds like it would be up your alley, head to Bacalar. Bacalar is a pueblo magico in the Yucatan Peninsula. Located about two and a half hours south of Tulum or less than 40 minutes north of Belize. This town is known for its stunningly colored Lagoon of Seven Colors. It’s Mexico’s largest body of freshwater that happens to be brilliant shades of turquoise, azure, and dark blue, thanks to its sandy white floor.

There’s plenty of things to do in Bacalar. From paddle boarding across its gorgeous waters or kayaking to Canal de los Piratas, a secret hiding spot in the lagoon for pirates centuries ago. For something even more unique, head to Los Rapidos. This narrow section of the lagoon has a gentle current that you can simply float down as a lazy river!

After a day of enjoying the lagoon, head to the charming cobblestone streets of its downtown area. Here you’ll find delicious local food and a cerveza or two to fuel up before you go enjoy the relaxing waters again tomorrow!

 

Isla Holbox

Favourite Mexican island of Hannah @ Getting Stamped

 

White Sands of Isla Holbox. A favourite island to visit in Mexico.

Isla Holbox

 

Isla Holbox is situated on Mexico’s Northern Coastline. It has earned a reputation for exuding a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere. Also as a unique landscape that is ideally suited for exploration through outdoor activities like rappelling, swimming in cenotes, boat tours, and much more.

Unlike other regions in the Yucatan Peninsula, this island prohibits cars (only work vehicles allowed). This makes it unique and thus creates a small-town charm where people meet in the pueblo to gather together for meals and socialization.

Holbox is a great destination to visit as there are a variety of boat excursions available. All offering incredible chances to witness wildlife, including magnificent creatures like whale sharks. Adventures will enjoy the beautiful landscapes. Yalahau cenote inviting guests to swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters beneath the surface.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, stroll along the seemingly endless sandbar beach at Las Nubes. Extending for miles from the beach hotels all the way to Mosquito Point. The best time to visit is in the morning during low tide. Make sure to align your sandbar adventures with the tides.

Isla Holbox is unique from the rest of tourist Mexico as it offers a unique atmosphere. It allows you to interact with the locals, taste authentic Mexican cuisine, and experience all the hidden gems in their raw state as they haven’t been popularized by tourism.

We enjoy Isla Holbox for its tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect getaway for families with young children. Unlike the usual bustling Mexican destinations, Isla Holbox is less crowded, allowing for a peaceful experience.

 

Chichén Itzá

Favourite Mayan Ruins of Sharyn @ Discover Australia Now

 

El Castillo Pyramid stands proudly in the centre of Chichen Itza, Mexico.

El Castillo, Chichen Itzá 

 

When visiting the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico a must see is one of the ‘New 7 Wonders of the World’ – Chichén Itzá. Literally every year millions of people visit this Unesco World Heritage Site to discover this Mayan historical site. 

Chichén Itzá was the urban centre of the Maya from about AD750 to 1200. And many of the buildings are well preserved at this archaeological site. Spread over some 740 acres you discover how the May lived through buildings such as El Castillo Pyramid which dominates the area standing at 98 foot (29 metres) tall.  Each side of the pyramid has a staircase which represents the four points of a compass. Since 2008 you cannot climb the structure. As I did visit before then I was able to climb the 365 steps, yes, one for each day of the year. And believe me, the steps are very steep and it is scary coming down. Many people came down slowly on their bottoms.

There are other structures to see such as the Temple of the Warriors, The Maya Ball Court and ensure you include a visit to the Sacred Cenote where numerous human skeletons have been found at the bottom of the cenote and believed to have been sacrificed to the gods. Definitely include a trip to Chichén Itzá if in the Yucutan in Mexico.

 

Where to Stay in Mexico?

 

Mexico has plenty of accommodation for your stay. There are plenty of hostels, hotels and five star resorts if you aren’t travelling in your own van. To see what’s available visit HostelWorld for a hostel bed and Booking.com for a hotel room.

 

When is the Best Time to Visit Mexico?

 

There are a number of variables that can influence when to visit Mexico. They include visiting during the best weather, how long you have for your Mexican holiday and what things you want to do in Mexico. Firstly the weather.

Mexico is a large country different weather happening at different times. They say the best time to visit Mexico is during the dry season which is between December and April. This is when the weather is hot and dry. Then the wet season in the southern part of the country is between May until October. So if you only have a couple of weeks to spend in Mexico, you may want to visit when the weather is warm and dry.

When to visit Mexico can also depend on what you want to do? If you plan to spend all your time lazing on a beach, then a holiday to Mexico will be best when the weather is predicted to be nice and warm. But if you are going to move abroad to live and work in Mexico, you will encounter all the seasons – and that is part of enjoying the country you decide to live in!

 

Are You Ready to Visit Mexico?

 

READ MORE:

Mexico Digital Nomad Visa

Mexican Mariachi Band in Mexico.

Thanks for sharing!

Just so you know: some of the links in this post might be affiliate links, which earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. No pressure to use my links, but I REALLY appreciate when you do! Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 


My favourite tools to Live Work Play Travel

 

🏠 Where Will You Be Sleeping Tonight? – Get a bed in a hostel dorm through HostelWorld or for a hotel room check out Booking.com. Get free accommodation house and pet sitting through Trusted Housesitters – this has saved me thousands on accommodation, no joke!

✈️ Need a cheap and flexible airfare – head to Skyscanner.

 🚙 Car Rental – search and compare vehicles at DiscoverCars.

 🚆 Train Travel: I love riding the rails. For a rail pass in Europe head to Raileurope. And Japan has a great one too – JapanRail Pass.

🚌 Travelling by bus is often the cheapest way to travel. Compare and get a ticket or a pass at Busbud.

🏃🏻‍♀️ Jump-the-queue entrance tickets and day tours: I book these through GetYourGuide.

 🌏 How to pick a country to live and work abroad in? Check out my Working Holiday Visa Country Guides and Digital Nomad Visa Country Guides to see where you can live work play travel abroad.

👕 For travel clothing and gear I get a lot of stuff from Amazon, North Face and Anaconda.

 🚑 Should you buy travel insurance? Absolutely Yes! SafetyWing is great digital nomads and long-term travellers and World Normads has policies for general and adventure travel.

 

Buy the Guide to Get Ready to Live Abroad, Work Abroad and Travel Full Time Like a Pro

Three Suitcases Standing On Top Of The World For The New Cover For Ready, Set,Go - Travel Your Pre-planning Guide For Your Overseas Adventure.

Follow Along on Facebook

Meet Live Work Play Travel?



Booking.com

Sharyn McCullum Sailing Through The Panama Canal With Storm Chasing Boat.

Sharyn McCullum – Travel Writer / Blogger, Remote On-line Worker, sometime Digital Nomad and Travel, Live and Work Abroad Expert. Is a chocoholic, coffee connoisseur and lover of ’80s music. Been travelling all her life thanks to her dad who worked for an airline. Lived in London 4 years on a working holiday. Has holidayed in Hawaii over 15 times and currently calls Melbourne, Australia home. Is inspiring others to get the live work play travel lifestyle with this blog. Read more about Sharyn here.

8 Comments

  1. Anja

    Great post! I wish to travel in Mexico so badly but don’t know where to begin when I only have a couple of weeks and am traveling from Europe. Only been in border cities so far. This is a great post to start researching destinations!

    Reply
  2. Alina

    I have heard from many travellers that Mexico was their most favorite country to travel to. I don’t speak any Spanish, do you think it is possible to travel individually without knowing the language?

    Reply
    • Sharyn McCullum

      Oh definitely. Mexico is like many countries around the world where English isn’t their first language. Plenty of people speak English in Mexico. I wouldn’t worry about not speaking Spanish. If you are worried, use the translator on your phone or learn a few words before you leave. There is a way around everything!

      Reply
  3. Lina

    Mexico just has so many great things to offer! I bet you could spend months there and still haven’t seen everything in this country. Would love to go there 🙂

    Reply
  4. Maggie

    I have good friends who live in Puerta Vallarta and I’m planning a trip to see them next year. It’ll be my first time to Mexico, so you’ve given me lots of good ideas of things to do while I’m there!

    Reply
  5. Hels

    I am so ready to see Mexico – to swim in a cenote, check out the floating gardens or walk amongst its colourful buildings. Heaven on earth. Thanks for sharing this bucket list!

    Reply
  6. Terri

    I continue to discover new places to visit in Mexico. I saw a lot of favorites in your post. To date, my favorite is Isla Holbox. I will visit Puerto Vallarta in December to experience it’s Christmas festival and parade.

    Reply
  7. Lisa | Travel to Lyon

    Mexico is such a diverse location, and much more than the stereotypes we see in the media!

    Reply

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *