If you are planning a trip and want to explore the best places to visit in Mexico, you’re in for a treat. Mexico is one of the most colorful and diverse countries in the world, boasting stunning beaches, vibrant cities, rich history, and delicious cuisine. With so many amazing destinations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or end up in places that don’t quite match what you’re looking for. Knowing the best places to visit in Mexico can help you plan your trip smarter and make the most of your first adventure in this incredible country.
The best places in Mexico to visit that I have included in this list are based on my own experiences traveling throughout the country. It is not a comprehensive guide, and that is exactly what I intended. Rather than trying to include every single place that is worth visiting, I have only included the ones that really impressed me. You will see a variety of popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations that most people miss when looking for the best places in Mexico to visit.
Some of these destinations are stunning natural wonders, some are quaint colonial cities, and some are historic ruins. A few of them may take a bit of extra work to get to, but if you’re the type of person who loves active travel and isn’t afraid to go a bit off the beaten path, then this guide to the best destinations in Mexico for vacation will be right up your alley.
If you’re looking for a honest, from-the-heart answer about where to go, whether it’s the best destinations in Mexico for couples, the best destinations in Mexico for families, or even the best destinations in Mexico to live, then you’re in the right place. I’m not going to sit here and tell you that every single destination on this list is a life-changer, but these are the places that impressed me, and they’re definitely worth considering for your next vacation.
At a glance: 10 best places in Mexico to visit
Here is my personal top 10 list of the best places to visit in Mexico. I have to admit that I am a bit of a picky traveler and have high expectations when it comes to traveling. This is not a standard tourist list, as not all popular tourist spots are worth adding to your travel plans.
Here is a brief summary of my favorite places. You can then learn more about each of them to see which ones suit your travel style.
1. Sumidero Canyon: Towering canyon walls rising from the river, waterfalls cascading down the cliffs, crocodiles basking on the riverbank—and surprisingly few foreign visitors.
2. Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl:Hikes at high altitude with breathtaking views of two volcanoes. One you can climb. The other? Absolutely not.
3. Copper Canyon:Even bigger than the Grand Canyon and best accessed by train, chugging through deep and remote mountain regions.
4. Uxmal: A compact but impressive Mayan ruin with intricate architecture, climbable structures, and relatively few visitors compared to Chichén Itzá.
5. Puebla:A beautiful colonial town with colorful streets, breathtaking churches, and a surprisingly laid-back vibe.
6. El Chiflón Waterfalls:A short and scenic hike along a turquoise river to one of the most powerful waterfalls in the country.
7. Lagunas de Montebello:Dozens of sparkling lakes nestled in pine forests, best accessed on simple wooden rafts gliding across glassy surfaces.
8. Tulum: A fantastic hub for adventure, with stunning beaches and Mayan ruins perched atop a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
9. Teotihuacan:Gigantic pyramids, an air of mystery, and one of the most spectacular ancient cities in the Americas.
10. Mexico City: Busy, loud, sometimes chaotic—but endlessly fascinating, with layers of history, amazing food, and culture packed into one enormous capital.
Why this list feels different from most “Top 10 in Mexico” articles?
Most of the articles about the best places to visit in Mexico just list the same old popular spots without really telling you why you should choose one over the other. Beach towns, giant cities, ancient ruins, and national parks are all just lumped together like they’re all the same thing—just a bunch of stuff to do in Mexico.
That’s not what I wanted to make.
This list is meant to actually help you out. I’ve made sure to include a variety of cities, natural wonders, Mexican culture, and ancient ruins—and each place is on this list for a reason.
You’ll also see that I’ve avoided some of the more beach-oriented hotspots in favor of destinations that have more to offer. It’s not about visiting the most well-known spots. It’s about finding the best destinations in Mexico for your style of travel.
1. Sumidero Canyon National Park
To experience the wonder of Sumidero Canyon, you’ll take a ride along a river in a small blue tourist boat while cliffs of near-vertical height loom above you.
What it is: A natural canyon and national park in the state of Chiapas, Mexico.
Why it’s worth visiting: It’s massive, natural, and untouched. Unlike other popular parks in Mexico, you can visit this one without the crowds. It’s one of the best parks in Mexico to visit if you are a nature lover and enjoy dramatic landscapes.
Best for: Nature enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers looking for a break from crowded tourist destinations.
Why I love it: Sumidero Canyon (Cañón del Sumidero) is like Mexico’s version of Yosemite—but hardly anyone knows about it. The canyon is 200 meters (655 feet) wide and 13 kilometers (8 miles) long, with a river running through it, making the boat tour an experience of a lifetime.
The cliffs of the canyon rise 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) straight up from the water. As you sit in your small blue boat, you can’t help but feel small and amazed at the giant cliffs looming above you. It’s a testament to how dramatic and beautiful nature can be in Mexico.
How to Visit Sumidero Canyon?
The most enjoyable way to explore Sumidero Canyon is by taking a boat tour. These tours take about 3 hours, and they originate from the small town of Chiapa de Corzo. By taking the tour, you are able to see the waterfalls, caves, rock formations, birds, and even crocodiles, which you wouldn’t be able to see if you were driving above the canyon.
If you would like to explore the canyon from the road, you can take the Miradores del Cañón del Sumidero, which is a 17 km (10-mile) road that leads to four spectacular viewpoints. Each of these viewpoints gives a different view of the canyon’s cliffs and river.
One of the most popular waterfalls is the Árbol de Navidad, or Christmas Tree Waterfall—you’ll understand why it has this name as soon as you see it.
Even more adventurous travelers can climb a ladder from the boat into the Cave of Colors. This tiny chapel is colored with pink walls streaked with minerals, making it a magical place to visit.
For accommodation, City Express Comitán is an excellent choice. The staff is very friendly and sets a high standard for service, making your stay as memorable as your visit to the canyon.
Visiting Sumidero Canyon in this manner makes it one of the best places to visit in Mexico.
2. Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl Volcanoes
Being in the highlands with Popocatépetl in the background is an experience you will never forget. These famous volcanoes are a part of Izta-Popo National Park, a highland area with volcanic peaks that are perfect for hiking and adventure.
What it is: A volcanic area with hiking trails and stunning views.
Why it’s worth visiting: Hiking with an active volcano right beside you is an adventure you will never forget. The landscape is breathtaking, and the size of these mountains will make you feel small in the best possible way.
Best for: Hikers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a physical challenge in high altitude.
Fun facts: Mexico has 40 active volcanoes, and Popocatépetl is one of the most dangerous in the world. It has been erupting on and off since 2005! Although the nearby cities of Puebla and even Mexico City could be in danger in the event of a large eruption, scientists keep a close eye on it, so it is safe to visit—but never climb.
How to Experience Them?
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Iztaccíhuatl: Dormant but still active, it’s safe to hike. You can reach the summit for a truly rewarding view.
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Popocatépetl: You cannot climb this volcano, but hiking nearby under its smoking peak is awe-inspiring.
There are three official trails in the park, ranging from easy to difficult. Remember that most of the park is above 3,000 meters (9,840 feet), and the thinner air makes even easier trails difficult.
I highly recommend the most difficult trail to the summit of Iztaccíhuatl if you are up for the challenge. It is a difficult climb with many steep sections, but the views from the top are arguably the best of any volcano in Mexico.
If you are not up for the full climb, you can hike to Tercer Portillo, which still offers incredible views without the difficulty. I highly recommend hiring a guide, whether you choose the full climb or just a taste of this incredible volcanic landscape.
This destination is one of the best places to visit in Mexico if you are an adventure junkie or someone who loves incredible natural scenery.
3. Copper Canyon
Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre) is an awe-inspiring set of six canyons in northern Mexico, all of which are linked to create a gigantic canyon system four times the size of the Grand Canyon. Each of the six canyons was created by a river, which eventually combined to form the Fuerte River and flow into the Pacific Ocean.
What it is: A huge and rugged canyon system located in the state of Chihuahua.
Why it’s worth visiting: It’s literally impossible to comprehend the size of this place until you are actually in it. And the train journey through the canyons is enough of an experience to make this trip worthwhile.
Best for: Slow travelers, train enthusiasts, and people who are more interested in natural scenery than exploring cities.
How to Experience Copper Canyon?
The best and most famous way to enjoy the canyon is on the Copper Canyon Train, also known as El Chepe. The train route is 670 km (415 miles) from Chihuahua to Los Mochis, passing through mountains, tunnels, bridges, and canyon views that are as much a part of the journey as the destination itself.
Other adventures include hiking with a guide, horseback riding, mountain biking (mainly around Creel), or even zip lining at the Barrancas del Cobre Adventure Park.
A regular train ride from Los Mochis takes about 4 hours without any stops, but many people get on and off at different towns along the way, sometimes spending the night in the canyon.
Copper Canyon is also home to the Tarahumara Indians, who sell their crafts and local cuisine. For a pleasant stay, the best and most recommended hotel is Hotel La Estación in Creel.
This mix of breathtaking landscapes, cultural experiences, and the amazing train ride makes Copper Canyon one of the best destinations in Mexico for adventure-seeking and nature-loving travelers.
4. Uxmal
Uxmal is one of the most spectacular Mayan ruins in Mexico, combining impressive architecture, intricate stonework, and relatively few visitors compared to the more famous Chichén Itzá.
What it is: Ancient Mayan ruins and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Yucatán Peninsula.
Why it’s worth visiting: The ancient city is very detailed and roomy, so you can wander around without being pushed through by other tourists. The Pyramid of the Magician, the temples, and even the ball court are a delight for history buffs and architecture aficionados.
Best for: Early risers, architecture buffs, and those who want to visit Mayan ruins without the crowds.
What Makes Uxmal Special
Uxmal, one of the best places in Mexico to visit, had a population of 25,000 at its peak and is constructed in the Puuc style, with smooth walls, columns, carvings, and serpents. The Pyramid of the Magician is the tallest and most distinctive monument, with an elliptical base and rounded sides—a first among Mayan pyramids in the Yucatán.
Unlike other ruins, you are allowed to climb up and enter most of the buildings (except the Pyramid of the Magician itself), making this a very interactive historical experience. The view from the Grand Pyramid is ideal for taking pictures of the entire ancient city.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this ruin is the ball court. The Maya had a game called tlachtli, which was a ritual game like basketball but without the use of hands. They used elbows, hips, and other body parts to propel the ball into a stone hoop—and, in some instances, the losing team was sacrificed. Dark history aside, it’s a thrilling aspect of one of the best places in Mexico to visit.
Uxmal is an easy day trip from Mérida and one of the best ruins to visit in Mexico for anyone interested in Mayan history and culture.
Uxmal vs. Chichén Itzá
Both Uxmal and Chichen Itza are amazing Mayan ruins, but they are completely different experiences.
Why choose Uxmal:
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It is the most impressive example of Puuc style architecture, featuring intricate stone carvings and beautiful details.
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It is less well-known than Chichen Itza, so there are much fewer visitors.
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It is best to visit early in the morning to avoid parking problems and to have a quiet visit.
Both are amazing, but if you prefer to see detail, have room to breathe, and avoid the crowds, Uxmal has the edge.
5. Puebla
Puebla is a colonial city in Central Mexico and one of my favorites.
What it is: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with colorful streets, colonial architecture, and mountains in the background.
Why it’s worth visiting:
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Extremely walkable and visually stunning.
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Offers rich history, culture, and architecture without the chaos of Mexico City.
How to Visit Puebla?
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Getting there: About 2 hours from Mexico City by car—close enough for a day trip, but far enough to feel like a different world.
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Stay: At least 2 full days to explore properly; I highly recommend Banyan Tree Hotel for comfort.
Highlights:
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Zócalo de Puebla: The main square of the city, where the giant Catedral de Puebla with 14 chapels is located.
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Chapel of the Rosario: Located in the Church of Santo Domingo, so laden with gold that it was dubbed the Eighth Wonder of the World.
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El Parián Market: Artisan goods, souvenirs, and colorful vendors that are perfect for browsing.
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Biblioteca Palafoxiana: The oldest public library in the Americas, filled with historical texts and dark wood paneling.
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Nearby: Cholula, home to the largest pyramid in the world, Tlachihualtepetl, nearly twice the width of Giza’s pyramid. The top is now a hill with a church, but you can still climb the lower section.
Puebla is one of the best destinations in Mexico for city enthusiasts due to its rich history, architecture, and culture.
6. El Chiflón Waterfalls
El Chiflón is a natural reserve featuring a series of five large waterfalls on a crystal-clear river in the state of Chiapas.
What it is: A waterfall trail and natural reserve.
Why it’s worth visiting:
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Easy access, high reward—multiple breathtaking waterfalls without the hassle of a long hike.
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Ideal for half-day excursions into nature.
How to Visit El Chiflón?
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Located about 2.5 hours from San Cristóbal de las Casas.
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The main trail is around 5 km (3 miles), mostly along the river, with wooden walkways offering excellent photo spots.
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Highlights include turquoise pools, lower cascades, and Cascada Velo de Novia, the tallest waterfall—powerful, beautiful, and unforgettable.
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Swimming is possible in designated areas, but some currents are strong, so caution is needed.
Allow half a day to hike the trail and enjoy the scenery and swimming holes where possible. El Chiflón is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets for a cool and scenic nature fix.
7. Montebello Lakes
Montebello Lakes, or Lagunas de Montebello, is one of the best places in Mexico to visit—a peaceful and breathtakingly beautiful spot in Chiapas, with 59 pristine lakes interconnected by underground rivers.
What it is: It is a lake system within a national park that is surrounded by pine forests.
Why it’s worth visiting: The color of the water is so blue that it looks impossible, and the surroundings are so peaceful that it feels almost magical when the colors of the lakes change from turquoise to deep green or purple-black.
How to experience it:
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However, there are only about 15 lakes that are easily accessible by car or short walks.
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To fully enjoy the experience, take a simple wooden raft led by local guides to glide over the water.
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Take time to explore by appreciating the limestone formations, red moss, and underwater caves visible in the pristine waters.
Chiapas is also a great place for adventure-seekers, with rock climbing, zip lining, and hiking nearby.
8. Tulum
Tulum integrates Mayan ruins along the coast with an adventure travel base in the Yucatan Peninsula.
What it is: Walled Mayan ruins and beachside ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Why it’s worth visiting: The ruins are situated dramatically above sandy beaches, and Tulum is the perfect spot for cenotes, snorkeling, day trips, and jungle excursions.
How to visit Tulum:
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Avoid the crowded beach club area and concentrate on the natural attractions and activities in the area.
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Visit cenotes such as Zacil-Ha for a more peaceful swimming experience.
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Use Tulum as a base to visit Akumal, Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, and other regional attractions.
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Fly into Cancun or Tulum airport and rent a car for maximum flexibility.
9. Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan, also known as The City of the Gods, is an ancient pre-Aztec city located near Mexico City.
What it is: An enormous city full of pyramids, with mysterious beginnings and enormous historical value.
Why it’s worth visiting: Exploring the Avenue of the Dead, the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon, and the residential ruins will give you an idea of what an ancient city is like and how it can still be awe-inspiring.
How to visit Teotihuacan:
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A half-day trip from Mexico City is best if you get there early.
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Can only be appreciated from the ground; 220 m wide, just like Giza.
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Pyramid of the Moon: Is now partially climbable since May 2025; originally used for public ceremonies.
10. Mexico City
Mexico City is a crazy, fascinating, and historically rich place.
What it is: A huge, colorful capital city that is home to museums, street food, colonial architecture, and ancient ruins.
Why it’s worth visiting: Mexico City is a fascinating place because of its many layers of history, from pre-Hispanic to colonial to modern. Visitors can explore the historic center, enjoy world-class food, and even take day trips into nature or for adventure.
How to explore Mexico City:
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Base yourself near the historic center.
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Visit Plaza de la Constitución, Templo Mayor Museum, Catedral Metropolitana, and Palacio de Bellas Artes.
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Explore neighborhoods and parks like Chapultepec, which includes museums, a zoo, lakes, and a castle.
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For art lovers, La Casa Azul (Frida Kahlo Museum) is a must-see.
Fun fact: Built on a drained lake, Mexico City sinks about 50 cm (20 inches) per year due to soil compaction.
Conclusion
Mexico is a vast, varied, and captivating country. With towering canyons and waterfalls, ancient pyramids, and vibrant cities, there’s something for every kind of traveler, whether you’re interested in adventure, history, nature, or culture.
The following are the top ten destinations that showcase the best of what Mexico has to offer:
- Nature & Adventure: Sumidero Canyon, Copper Canyon, El Chiflón Waterfalls, Montebello Lakes, and volcanoes Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl.
- Ancient History: Uxmal, Tulum, and Teotihuacan.
- Cultural & Urban Experiences: Puebla and Mexico City.
The trick to having an amazing vacation is to not try to cram all of these experiences into one trip. Instead, concentrate on one area at a time, and be sure to include a variety of nature, history, and culture. For instance:
- In Central Mexico, consider Mexico City or Puebla together with a trip to Teotihuacan.
- In the Yucatan, Tulum and Merida can be combined with a tour of Mayan ruins and swimming in cenotes.
In this way, you can explore a variety of the best places in Mexico to visit without spending your vacation constantly traveling from site to site. These destinations aren’t just popular—they’re recommended for the depth of the experience, the natural beauty of the surroundings, and the sense of awe they inspire.
Mexico is a country to truly experience, not just a place to visit.
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