Mexico is an incredible nation filled with historical and natural wonders that span from ancient ruins to pristine beaches – here are its top travel attractions!
Explore the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, where El Castillo stands 78-feet above other stone monuments – this must-see destination is sure to please history fans!
1. Mexico City
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As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient Aztec city is an incredible sight. Wander through its many plazas and discover its mysterious Temple Mayor with its abundance of hidden glyphs. And you can always go for countless outdoor adventures in Mexico City when there.
Architecture enthusiasts must visit La Condesa and Roma neighborhoods of Madrid. Here, you will find exquisite fin de siecle mansions and art deco dwellings from fin de siecle mansions to art deco dwellings. Meanwhile, Coyoacan district brings Frida Kahlo fans together at Casa Azul – home of her dresses that can be seen displayed as part of its museum collection.
2. Palenque
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Palenque’s ruins are situated amid subtropical rainforest, home to exotic species like howler monkeys and jaguars. Take a hike through the jungle or visit one of its numerous waterfalls near Palenque.
Temple of Inscriptions is the main ruin, and can easily take up an entire day exploring its complex. Other noteworthy temples include: Templo de el Count – a Classic Palenque temple featuring stunning murals – and Bonampak, where some of the best preserved Mayan murals can be found.
3. Izamal
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Izamal is an inviting town situated between Merida and Valladolid that’s easily navigable on foot, offering beautiful rooms in 17th-century buildings. Plus, its hacienda boasts incredible facilities!
The main square in Merida is filled with colonial buildings clad in vibrant hues that make for a photographer’s delight. Make sure to visit Hecho a Mano and Raices Mayas for handcrafted souvenirs made by artisans; don’t miss wandering through what is the second largest convent atrium worldwide and one of Mexico’s top travel attractions for photo enthusiasts.
4. Valladolid
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Valladolid is one of Mexico’s best historical tourism destinations and provides travelers with much to do besides. From exploring nearby ruins to enjoying refreshing cenotes, this town provides everything a traveler could ask for.
Cenote Suytun, an idyllic cave where you can swim in shallow pools of emerald-green water, stands out as one of the main highlights in Tulum. Here, visitors can relax and unwind more secludedly than elsewhere in Tulum.
Be sure to visit Casa de los Venados, an exquisite renovated hacienda boasting the largest collection of colonial art in Mexico, for tours every morning at 10 am. This site can be reached through Metro station 9 and will provide access to this attraction.
5. Oaxaca City
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Textiles are everywhere in Oaxaca and their presence can quickly be felt at the Museum of Textile Art for a comprehensive view of Oaxacan textile art. To gain more insight, take a tour at this museum for an overview.
Experience true regional culture when you join a local for a temazcal experience. No mere sweat lodge, this luxurious temple to agave offers Michelin-caliber cuisine and cocktails as part of their ritual.
6. Celestun
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Celestun offers an idyllic beach experience for relaxation. This sleepy village makes an excellent alternative to more tourist-oriented towns in Yucatan.
Ojo de Agua is also an ideal spot for birdwatching, home to massive flocks of flamingos that migrate each year to this area. Take a boat tour over to Ojo de Agua to swim in its freshwater spring (make sure you bring along your swimsuit!). Or just visit for the views.
Nearby lies Hacienda Chunchucmil, located just across the border in Campeche and one of the area’s most impressive landmarks.
7. Sayulita
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Sayulita is a beach village known for its laidback vibe and popular among surfers of all levels; with gentle waves ideal for beginners.
Instagrammers love this city’s charming center and the sprawling Centro Historico (Historic Center), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes nine museums – including one dedicated to Anthropology!
Steel museums may seem distainful, but Horno3 in Monterrey proves us wrong with an absolutely captivating steel exhibit showcasing Mexico’s industrial past. It’s quite incredible!
8. Las Coloradas
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If you love taking breathtaking vacation photos, Mexico’s colorful pink lakes (officially known as Las Coloradas) will captivate and mesmerize. Nestled within a UNESCO biosphere reserve and home to an abundance of flamingos, Las Coloradas offer picturesque scenes for taking breathtaking holiday snaps.
Once viewed from the road, lakes can be freely seen; however, due to their increasing popularity salt factory owners now provide tours as a means of controlling visitor numbers and protecting lake colors.
After exploring the lakes, visit Ek Balam ruins and Xcanche cenote before making your way to Rio Lagartos and strolling along its Malecon for lunch.
