The 17 most beautiful places to visit in Mexico
Mexico, a country with a thousand faces, fascinates visitors with its exceptional cultural wealth and the diversity of its landscapes. From thousand-year-old Mayan pyramids to white sandy beaches, from colourful colonial towns to mysterious cenotes, every corner of Mexico offers unforgettable discoveries. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of idleness or an adventurer at heart, visiting Mexico promises a unique experience. Between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Caribbean Sea to the east, this Latin American country offers an infinite range of emotions. Here is our selection of the 17 most beautiful places to visit in Mexico to help you prepare for your next trip.
See also the Mexico guide :
- Top 10 culinary specialities in Mexico City
- Top 6 things to do in Mexico City
- Top 6 things to do in Puebla
- What are the best hotels in Puebla?
- Top 5 best hotels in Mexico City
- The 13 best destinations to spend the winter in the sun
1. Chichen Itza, the wonder of the Mayan world
It’s impossible to visit Mexico without discovering Chichen Itza, one of the country’s most impressive archaeological sites and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Situated on the Yucatan peninsula, this ancient Mayan city fascinates visitors with its emblematic pyramid, El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán). This architectural monument, which rises to a height of almost 30 metres, bears witness to the advanced astronomical knowledge of the Mayans. At each equinox, a play of light and shadow creates the illusion of a snake descending the stairs of the pyramid.
The site is also home to the largest ball field in Mesoamerica, as well as the Sacred Cenote, where the Maya performed rituals. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chichen Itza attracts almost 2 million visitors every year. To make the most of your visit and avoid the crowds, make sure you arrive as soon as the site opens. The Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza are an absolute must-see on any trip to Mexico.
2. Mexico City, the vibrant capital with a thousand facets
The Mexican capital, often referred to as CDMX, richly deserves a place on this list of the most beautiful places to visit in Mexico. This sprawling metropolis of over 20 million inhabitants boasts an exceptional historical heritage. In the heart of the historic centre, the Zócalo, one of the largest squares in the world, is flanked by the majestic Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, adorned with Diego Rivera’s famous frescoes.
Don’t miss the National Museum of Anthropology, considered one of the most important museums in the world, which houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artefacts, including the famous Aztec Sun Stone. The bohemian district of Coyoacán, with Frida Kahlo’s famous Blue House, and the floating gardens of Xochimilco add to the charm of this cultural capital. Mexico City also surprises with its world-renowned gastronomic scene and contemporary districts such as Polanco and La Roma.
Download the audio tour to discover Berlin on foot and on your own
To explore Mexico City in complete freedom and plunge into the heart of one of the world’s greatest metropolises, download the Navaway audio tour dedicated to Mexico City. With 24 points of interest with commentary, explore the city on foot and on your own, from the Zócalo and the Metropolitan Cathedral to the Aztec remains of the Templo Mayor and the vibrant districts of Coyoacán and Roma. The app guides you around simply, while offering rich audio content to help you understand Mexico’s thousand-year-old history, architecture and culture. It’s the ideal way to explore Mexico at your own pace, combining cultural discoveries, local traditions and urban excitement.
3. The Yucatan cenotes, sacred natural pools
The cenotes are among the most spectacular natural treasures to be discovered in Mexico. These natural freshwater wells, formed by the collapse of the limestone bedrock, were regarded as gateways to the subterranean world by the Mayan civilisation. The Yucatan peninsula boasts almost 10,000 of them, offering enchanting landscapes with crystal-clear waters of a bewitching turquoise blue.
Among the must-see cenotes, the Gran Cenote near Tulum offers swimming and snorkelling among the stalactites. Cenote Ik Kil, near Chichen Itza, impresses with its sheer size and creepers reaching down to the water. Cenote Dos Ojos delights divers with its spectacular underwater cave system. Cenote Suytun offers a magical spectacle when a ray of light illuminates its waters. These magical places make for a unique experience on a trip to Mexico, combining a refreshing swim with an immersion in Mayan spirituality.
4. Tulum, a paradise of ruins and beaches
Tulum epitomises the quintessential Mexican dream: majestic Mayan ruins overlooking white sandy beaches bathed by a turquoise sea. This ancient Mayan city, the only archaeological site built by the sea, offers a breathtaking panorama. The main temple, perched on a 12-metre cliff, stands out against the intense blue of the Caribbean Sea.
As well as the ruins, Tulum is also famous for its heavenly beaches, which stretch for miles. The town is also renowned for its many surrounding cenotes and its relaxed atmosphere. Tulum has become a popular destination for travellers in search of authenticity and nature, with its eco-friendly accommodation and locally sourced food scene. If you want to experience Mexico at its best, Tulum is the perfect combination of culture, history and relaxation.
5. Guanajuato, a colonial jewel perched in the mountains
Nestled in the mountains of central Mexico, Guanajuato is one of the country’s most beautiful colonial cities. Its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals a labyrinth of cobbled streets, flower-filled squares and colourful houses set against the hillsides. This former mining town, once one of the richest in New Spain thanks to its silver mines, played a major role in Mexican independence.
Don’t miss the climb up to the Pípila monument for an exceptional panoramic view of the whole city. The Callejón del Beso (Kissing Lane), so narrow that the balconies almost touch, tells the story of a local romantic legend. The Teatro Juárez, a sumptuous neoclassical theatre, and the university with its monumental staircases add to the charm of this lively student city. Guanajuato vibrates to the rhythm of mariachi bands and the famous Festival Cervantino, one of the most important cultural festivals in Latin America.
6. Bacalar Lagoon, the lagoon of seven colours
Nicknamed the “lagoon of seven shades of blue”, Bacalar is one of Quintana Roo’s best-kept secrets. This immense expanse of freshwater is almost 50 kilometres long, revealing a palette of blues ranging from brilliant turquoise to deep blue, depending on the depth and light. Far from the tourist hustle and bustle of Cancun or Playa del Carmen, Bacalar offers the ideal haven of peace in which to recharge your batteries.
There’s no shortage of activities: kayaking on the calm waters, paddle boarding, swimming in the nearby cenotes such as Cenote Azul or La Bruja, or visiting Fort San Felipe, which tells the story of the pirates in the region. The lagoon is also home to stromatolites, rock formations created by micro-organisms thousands of years ago. If you want to visit Mexico off the beaten track, Bacalar is an unmissable stopover where nature reigns supreme.
7. Teotihuacan, city of the gods
Just 50 kilometres from Mexico City, Teotihuacan is one of Mexico’s most impressive archaeological sites. This ancient pre-Columbian metropolis, which reached its apogee between the 1st and 7th centuries, was one of the largest cities in the world at the time, with a population of almost 200,000. Its Nahuatl name means “the place where the gods were born”, testifying to its importance in Mesoamerican cosmology.
The Pyramid of the Sun, the third largest pyramid in the world at 65 metres high, dominates the site. Climbing to its summit offers a spectacular view of the entire complex. The Pyramid of the Moon, smaller but just as majestic, closes the Alley of the Dead, the main avenue over 2 kilometres long. The remarkably well-preserved frescoes in the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl and the Pyramids of the Feathered Serpent complete this exceptional visit. Teotihuacan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must if you want to understand the pre-Hispanic history of Mexico.
8. Oaxaca, cultural and gastronomic capital
Oaxaca, in southern Mexico, embodies the very soul of the country. This undeniably charming colonial city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its rich culture, lively indigenous traditions and exceptional cuisine. The historic centre boasts some superb Baroque buildings, such as the Santo Domingo de Guzmán church, a true architectural masterpiece with its interior covered in gold leaf.
Oaxaca is the birthplace of mezcal, the traditional agave-based alcohol, and the famous Mexican chocolate. The seven moles, complex sauces prepared with sometimes more than 30 ingredients, are the region’s gastronomic trademark. Don’t miss the Benito Juárez market for local produce and Oaxacan handicrafts, including the famous alebrijes, fantastic painted wood sculptures. Nearby, the Zapotec archaeological site of Monte Albán, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views over the entire valley.
9. Palenque, the Mayan city engulfed by the jungle
In the heart of the lush jungle of Chiapas, Palenque is one of Mexico’s most fascinating Mayan sites. This ancient city, which reached its apogee between the 6th and 8th centuries, stands out for the elegance of its architecture and the finesse of its bas-reliefs. The Temple of Inscriptions, a pyramid housing the tomb of King Pakal, is one of the few Mayan funerary temples to have been discovered with its occupant still in place.
The Palace, with its observation tower unique in Mayan architecture, the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Cross are the other jewels of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The mystical atmosphere of Palenque, with its ruins emerging from the tropical vegetation and the sound of howler monkeys in the background, transports visitors to another era. For a visit to authentic Mayan Mexico, far from the tourist beaches, Palenque offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.
10. San Miguel de Allende, an artistic colonial gem
San Miguel de Allende, the jewel in the crown of the state of Guanajuato, is regularly listed as one of the world’s most beautiful cities. This impeccably-preserved colonial city is a magnet for visitors with its cobbled streets, colourful facades and Baroque architecture. The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, a candy-pink neo-Gothic church, dominates the Jardin Principal and has become the city’s emblem.
San Miguel de Allende played a crucial role in Mexico’s independence and is now home to a large community of artists and expatriates who have contributed to its cultural dynamism. The city is home to numerous art galleries, craft workshops and gourmet restaurants. Traditional markets such as the Mercado de Artesanías offer an opportunity to discover local crafts. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Miguel de Allende offers a refined cultural experience in an enchanting colonial setting.
11. The islands of Quintana Roo: Holbox, Cozumel and Isla Mujeres
Mexico’s Caribbean coast is home to several paradise islands that are well worth a visit. Holbox, a small island of 56 km² in the Gulf of Mexico, is a haven of peace where cars are prohibited. Its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and the chance to swim with whale sharks between June and September make it a unique destination. The pink flamingos that populate the lagoons add a touch of colour to this picture-postcard landscape.
Cozumel, Mexico’s largest island, is world-renowned for its exceptional diving sites. The Palancar Reef and Cozumel Marine National Park are home to extraordinary marine biodiversity. Isla Mujeres, off the coast of Cancun, has a relaxed atmosphere and an underwater museum (MUSA) where more than 500 submerged sculptures create a fascinating artificial reef. These three islands offer different facets of Mexico’s Caribbean paradise.
12. The Agua Azul waterfalls, a natural wonder in Chiapas
In the state of Chiapas, the Agua Azul waterfalls are a breathtaking natural spectacle. This succession of waterfalls and natural pools, stretching for almost 7 kilometres, reveals waters of an unreal turquoise blue, due to their high mineral content. The Agua Azul Special Biosphere Reserve is a paradise where you can take a dip in some of the natural pools.
Important note: since the earthquake in September 2017, the waterfall flow has been considerably reduced. It is advisable to find out about the current state of the site before planning your visit. Not far away, the Misol-Ha waterfalls, an impressive 35-metre-high drop, and the Sumidero canyon, where the Grijalva river winds its way between dizzying cliffs of up to 1,000 metres, complete the discovery of the natural wonders of Chiapas.
13. Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya
Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya embody the seaside face of Mexico, with its dream beaches and water sports activities. Once a peaceful fishing village, Playa del Carmen has been transformed into a dynamic seaside resort with a relaxed atmosphere. La Quinta Avenida, a pedestrian avenue lined with shops, restaurants and bars, is the beating heart of the city.
The Riviera Maya stretches for more than 120 kilometres along the Caribbean coast, from Puerto Morelos to Tulum. This coastal strip combines heavenly beaches, coral reefs ideal for diving, mysterious cenotes and Mayan archaeological sites. The crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea are home to a wealth of marine life, including sea turtles, rays and colourful tropical fish. For those wishing to visit Mexico from a seaside perspective, the Riviera Maya offers the perfect balance between relaxation and cultural discoveries.
14. Nevado de Toluca volcano
Nevado de Toluca, also known as Xinantécatl (naked man in Nahuatl), is Mexico’s fourth highest peak at 4,680 metres. This extinct volcano, located in the state of Mexico, has two magnificent lagoons in its crater: Lake of the Sun and Lake of the Moon. Until 2016, it was possible to drive up to the crater, making this one of the most accessible sites for observing crater lakes.
Today, access by vehicle stops before the summit, but the hike to the crater remains accessible to walkers in good physical condition. The view from the summit takes in the entire Toluca valley and, on a clear day, you can see the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes. Nevado de Toluca National Park also boasts pine and fir forests, alpine meadows and wildlife including white-tailed deer and grey fox. For lovers of nature and high mountains, this is an exceptional site to visit in Mexico.
15. San Cristóbal de las Casas, the cultural capital of Chiapas
Perched at an altitude of 2,200 metres in the mountains of Chiapas, San Cristóbal de las Casas is a colonial town with authentic charm. Its cobbled streets lined with colourful one-storey houses, red-tiled roofs and numerous churches create a unique atmosphere. The city is the cultural heart of the Tzotzil and Tzeltal indigenous peoples, who have preserved their ancestral traditions.
The Santo Domingo market is a great place to discover local crafts, particularly textiles with traditional designs woven by indigenous women. Don’t miss the church of San Juan Chamula, a few kilometres outside the city, where a fascinating religious syncretism is still practised, combining Catholicism and ancestral Mayan beliefs. San Cristóbal de las Casas also boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere and a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous cafés, bookshops and cultural centres. The city is an excellent base from which to explore the natural wonders of Chiapas.
16. Hierve el Agua, petrified waterfalls
Hierve el Agua, around 70 kilometres from Oaxaca, is one of Mexico’s most surprising natural sites. These are not real waterfalls, but rock formations created by calcium carbonate deposits that give the illusion of petrified waterfalls. These natural concretions, formed over thousands of years, cascade down the cliffs for almost 50 metres.
At the top, natural pools fed by mineral-rich springs allow you to bathe while admiring a spectacular panoramic view of the Oaxaca valley. The water, which gushes out at a constant temperature, creates these infinite pools overlooking the void. The site has two main formations: the petrified waterfall and the amphitheatre. If you want to visit Mexico and discover unique geological phenomena, Hierve el Agua offers a fascinating natural spectacle, especially at sunset when the rock formations take on golden hues.
17. Lagunas de Montebello National Park
To conclude this list of the most beautiful places to visit in Mexico, let’s head for the Lagunas de Montebello National Park in the state of Chiapas, close to the Guatemalan border. This UNESCO biosphere reserve is home to around fifty lakes and lagoons of extraordinary colours, ranging from turquoise to emerald green, from azure blue to deep purple, depending on the mineral composition of the water, the submerged vegetation and the depth.
Surrounded by pine and oak forests, these lagoons create an enchanting and peaceful landscape. The most accessible are the Lagunas de Colores, a group of seven lakes that are easy to visit. Some of the lagoons are ideal for kayaking or swimming. The park is also home to caves, little-explored archaeological areas and a rich biodiversity. Hiking trails wind through the forest, offering spectacular views of these colourful bodies of water. Lagunas de Montebello represents a unique ecosystem in Mexico, far from the usual tourist circuits, perfect for lovers of unspoilt nature.
In conclusion, visiting Mexico reveals a country of incredible richness, where each region reveals unique treasures. From Mayan archaeological sites bearing witness to a thousand-year-old civilisation to the heavenly beaches of the Riviera Maya, from colourful colonial towns to natural wonders such as cenotes and petrified waterfalls, Mexico offers an infinite range of experiences. Whether you’re a fan of pre-Hispanic history, a fan of lazing on dreamy beaches, an explorer of colonial cities or an adventurer in search of the wilderness, the 17 most beautiful places presented in this article are must-sees for discovering the true soul of this fascinating country. Mexico awaits you with its lively traditions, delicious cuisine and the warmth of its people for a memorable trip.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Mexico?
The best time to visit Mexico is generally from November to April, during the dry season. Temperatures are pleasant and rainfall limited. Avoid the rainy season (June to October) and the hurricane season (August to October) on the coasts. For archaeological sites, November to March is the best time to avoid the intense heat.
How many days should I allow to visit Mexico?
A minimum of 10 to 15 days is recommended to discover Mexico’s main sites. Ideally, allow 3 weeks to combine archaeological sites, colonial cities and beaches. Two weeks will allow you to comfortably discover a specific region, such as the Yucatan peninsula or the centre of the country with Mexico City, Guanajuato and Oaxaca.
What are the must-see archaeological sites in Mexico?
Must-see archaeological sites include Chichen Itza (New Wonder of the World), Teotihuacan (near Mexico City), Palenque (in the Chiapas jungle), Tulum (by the sea), Monte Albán (near Oaxaca), Uxmal (Yucatan) and Calakmul (isolated in the forest). Each offers a unique perspective on Mexico’s pre-Hispanic civilisations.
Is Mexico a safe destination for travellers?
Mexico’s main tourist areas (Yucatan, Riviera Maya, colonial towns, Mexico City) are generally safe for visitors. As in any destination, basic precautions should be taken: avoid isolated areas at night, do not display valuables, and use official taxis. Consult the recommendations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before you leave and find out which areas to avoid.
Can you swim in all the cenotes in Mexico?
No, not all cenotes are open to bathing. Some are reserved for observation or certified diving. The cenotes accessible for bathing have safety equipment and measures in place. It is important to follow the rules: no chemical sun cream (biodegradable creams are preferable), shower before swimming, and respect local instructions to preserve these fragile and sacred ecosystems.
200 audioguided tours for cities all around the world
Download
