best travel route mexico

5 of the best road trips in Mexico

Jun 13, 2023 • 5 min read

From beaches to deserts and everything in between, Mexico has some great road-trip routes © Matthias Clamer / Getty Images

Itching to hit the open road in Mexico ? We have five epic drives to fuel your wanderlust.

Winding through the country's most stunning regions, these classic itineraries take you to jungle-set Maya ruins, dramatic turquoise coastlines and culturally rich colonial cities, not to mention a slew of remote places best reached by car.

The distances provided are not direct between the start and end points, but assume some diversion from the main route, allowing you to explore more of each region. Here are the best road trip routes in Mexico.

1. Drive Baja California

Best road trip for coastlines Tijuana–Los Cabos; 1600km/1000 miles

Graced with astonishing desert-meets-sea landscapes, otherworldly rock canyons and traffic-free highways, Baja is made for road-tripping. As you traverse the world's second-longest peninsula, the road zigzags between the coastlines of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, offering glimpses of a Mexico that time forgot.

Start the multi-day tour with some wine-tasting at the Valle de Guadalupe vineyards before venturing south to laid-back beach town and fish taco mecca Ensenada . Further south await the pristine islands of Loreto with some of the most biologically-diverse waters on earth.

From there, the road leads to under-the-radar La Paz before it splits west to surf haven Todos Santos and southeast to Cabo Pulmo , Baja's top dive site . On your final stop, celebrate the long journey in the festive sister resorts of Los Cabos .

Planning tip: Consider a road trip in February or March when you can spot blue whales off the coast – the largest animal on the planet.

2. Cruise the Yucatán Peninsula

Best road trip for cenotes and Maya ruins Cancún–Puerto Morelos; 1100km/680 miles

This loop route showcases the most fascinating sights on the Yucatán Peninsula , from jungle ruins and cenotes (limestone sinkholes) to old-world colonial cities and white-sand beaches hugging an aquamarine coastline. As you roll west from Cancún, stop in Valladolid for a dip in an enticing cenote (the Maya believed these natural pools to be gateways to the underworld).

Nearby, don't miss the impressive Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá , but get there early to beat the crowds. Foodies will be licking their chops in Mérida , Yucatán's colonial capital that wows visitors with its extraordinary regional cuisine and vibrant cultural scene.

Next, head southeast to enjoy a leisurely cruise through rolling hills dotted with Maya ruins on the seldom-visited Ruta Puuc. East of Maya country, along the Mexican Caribbean, you'll encounter the impossibly blue waters of Laguna Bacalar, Tulum 's dramatically situated clifftop ruins and primo reef diving in Cozumel and Puerto Morelos.

3. Head for the Oaxaca Coast

Best route for foodies Mexico City–Lagunas de Chacahua; 850km/530 miles

The road to the Oaxaca coast serves up a feast for the senses as you visit Mexico's top foodie destinations, marvel at mountaintop Zapotec ruins and linger on sublime beaches. After some excitement in Mexico City , drive south and stop for lunch in culinary capital Puebla , known for its exquisite moles. About four hours away lies cultural colossus Oaxaca City , yet another foodie paradise and a great base to visit the ancient Monte Albán ruins.

As you continue south, take a break to sample mezcal in Miahuatlán and then perhaps a stopover in San Jose del Pacífico, a misty mountain town renowned for its magic mushrooms. Yep, those magic mushrooms. From there, the route snakes down a windy mountain road to a spectacular coast where you can enjoy carefree beach-bumming in San Agustinillo , big-wave surfing in Puerto Escondido and the unspoiled charms of Parque Nacional Lagunas de Chacahua .

4. Follow the Central Pacific Coast

Best road trip for seafood and water sports Mazatlán–Puerto Vallarta; 440km/275 miles

Kick things off in true norteño (northern) fashion in Mazatlán , where an exciting cultural renaissance is flourishing in its revamped Old Mazatlán quarter. As you move south in the Central Pacific Coast , take a detour to the tiny island of Mexcaltitlán, a shrimping village believed to be the ancestral homeland of the Aztecs. Next, look for the turnoff to Chacala, a delightful palm-fringed cove where thatched-roof restaurants prepare delectable pescado zarandeado (northern-style grilled fish).

About an hour down the coast, you'll reach the neighboring beach towns of San Francisco (aka San Pancho) and Sayulita , family-friendly places with fun-filled outdoor activities such as surfing, kayaking and turtle releases. En route to Puerto Vallarta , drop by the scenic peninsula of Punta de Mita and delight in scrumptious seafood at oceanside restaurant Tuna Blanca .

Planning tip: Once in Vallarta, you won't want to miss the stretch of secluded beaches lining the jungle-backed southern coastline.

5. Explore around Mexico City

Best road trip near the capital Mexico City–Parque Nacional Cumbres del Ajusco; 300km/185 miles

This short but sweet tour packs quite a punch as it circles around the edges of Mexico City's southern border states. Start things off with some serious wow factor on a hike in Itza-Popo Zoquiapan National Park, home to two of Mexico's most impressive volcanoes, the active Popocatépetl and the dormant Iztaccíhuatl (aka El Popo and Izta).

Next, follow the highway southwest for an overnight stay in Tepoztlán , an important Náhuatl center where you can climb up to a clifftop Aztec temple. After that, swing by Cuernavaca and check out Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés' old digs at the imposing Palace of Cortés .

Planning tip: Make your final stop at Parque Nacional Cumbres del Ajusco and scale Mexico City's highest peak (Pico del Águila), or simply chill out over a hot champurrado (a comforting corn-based drink) and fresh-made quesadillas at a roadside eatery nestled in the park's fragrant pine forest.

Tips for driving in Mexico

If possible, stick to driving on the toll (cuota) highways. Avoid driving at night to reduce the risk of accidents. If stopped by traffic police, remain calm and stay in your vehicle, you'll often be let off with a warning. Be wary of unmarked speed bumps and ubiquitous potholes. For emergency roadside service, call 078.

This article was first published Apr 20, 2021 and updated Jun 13, 2023.

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Road trip Mexico: The best itineraries for 8, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

Visiting mexico by car: the 5 best road trip itineraries.

You’re planning a road trip in Mexico and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

You’ve come to the right place!

Mexico is a huge country that covers an area as big as several European countries combined.

Renting a car is the best way to explore this vast land full of stunning natural and archaeological sites, and stop whenever and wherever you want!

To help you plan your road trip in Mexico, I have prepared 5 itineraries for different durations: 8 days, 10 days, 2 weeks, 3 weeks and 1 month.

And at the end of this guide, I will also give you my list of the best accommodations in Mexico depending on your budget as well as my best tips to enjoy the perfect road trip.

Quick note: if you want to only visit the Yucatan Peninsula during your road trip, you should rather read my other article: Road Trip in Yucatan: The 5 Best Itineraries .

How to choose the best airport for your road trip in Mexico?

Rent a car for your road trip in mexico.

• 1) Mexico City (4 days)

2) Puebla (1 day)

3) tehuacan (1 day).

• 4) Oaxaca (3 days)
• 1) Mexico City (2 days)

2) San Cristobal de las Casas (3 days)

3) palenque (1 day), 4) merida (2 days), 5) chichen itza and riviera maya (2-3 days), 1) cancun (1 day), 2) ek balam and chichen itza (1-2 days), 3) merida, uxmal and kabah (1 day), 4) campeche and edzná (1 day).

• 5) Palenque (2 days)

6) San Cristobal de las Casas (2 days)

8) balamkú and calakmul (2 days), 9) tulum (2 days), 10) cancun (1 day), 1) mexico city (2-3 days), 2) cholula and puebla (1 day), 3) oaxaca (3 days), 4) san cristobal de las casas (3 days), 5) palenque (1 day), 6) campeche (1-2 days), 7) merida (2 days), 8) chichen itza and valladolid (1 day), 9) holbox (2-3 days), 10) tulum (2 days), 11) playa del carmen (2-3 days), 2) oaxaca (4 days), 3) tuxtla gutierrez (2 days), 6) calakmul (1 day), 7) bacalar (2-3 days), 8) merida (3 days), 9) valladolid (3 days), 10) tulum (4 days), 11) holbox (2-3 days), 12) cancun (1-2 days), mexico city, playa del carmen, san cristobal de las casas, my tips for visiting mexico by rental car, how to choose the right moment for your mexico road trip, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you.

The answer depends on how much time you have and what you want to see. You have two main options: start in Mexico City and end in Cancun , or make a loop from Cancun if you only want to explore the Yucatan Peninsula.

You can also do the trip in reverse (Cancun to Mexico City), but personally I think the best way to finish a trip to Mexico is relaxing on the beach 😉

Both Mexico City and Cancun airports have many flights from North America and Europe, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding airline tickets to Mexico!

To get the best deal on plane tickets, I recommend you use our comparison tool in partnership with Skyscanner: It is the best way to pay the lowest price for your international flight and your domestic flights in Mexico!

The best way to discover Mexico and enjoy your stay is to rent a car !

I always use Booking.com Cars to rent a car , because:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

To find your rental car at the lowest price, just click on the green button :

Road trip to Mexico: 8 days

To experience the best of Mexico in 8 days, I recommend this road trip itinerary:

• Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve

See the full itinerary and all the details for a 8-day road trip in Mexico by clicking here: The Best 8-10 Day Itinerary from Mexico City to Oaxaca

1) Mexico City (4 days )

Mexico City is an amazing capital with plenty to do in 4 days!

Day 1 – The Historic Center, Roma and Condesa

In the morning, visit the Zócalo, the Cathedral, and the National Palace. Then, walk along Madero Street to the Palace of Fine Arts.

In the afternoon, explore the Roma and Condesa neighborhoods, enjoying the Art Deco and Art Nouveau architecture with a bohemian vibe. Don’t miss Parque México, Plaza Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Alvaro Obregon, Casa Lamm Cultural Center, and Casa del Poeta

• If you’re a foodie, don’t miss this Mexico City food tour (click here to book!)

Day 2 – Teotihuacan and Lucha Libre

In the morning, explore the ancien city of Teotihuacan. In 3-4 hours, you can visit the Pyramid of the Sun, Pyramid of the Moon, Temple of Quetzalcoatl, Avenue of the Dead, and the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl.

You can take a public bus from Central del Norte, use Uber (expensive), or drive (1.5 hours). You can also join a guided tour (click here to book) with hotel pick-up, a tour of Teotihuacan, and tequila/mezcal tasting.

In the evening, enjoy a thrilling lucha libre show with colorful masks, acrobatics, and theatrical drama. For a complete experience, join the lucha libre tour (click here to book!)

Day 3 – Chapultepec and Polanco

Start your day at Chapultepec Park , one of the largest urban parks in the world.

Visit Chapultepec Castle , which now houses the National History Museum. Next, explore the National Museum of Anthropology , famous for exhibits on Mexico’s indigenous cultures, like the Aztec Sun Stone and Olmec Colossal Heads.

Get your favorite tickets here:

• Anthropology Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket
• Anthropology Museum Admission with Guided Visit
• Anthropology Museum + Chapultepec Castle
• Anthropology Museum + Chapultepec Castle (private)

If you have time, visit the Polanco neighborhood for top restaurants, cafes, and luxury stores. Enjoy its architecture, parks, and boutiques like Presidente Masaryk Avenue, Lincoln Park, and Antara Shopping Center.

Day 4 –  Xochimilco and Coyoacan  

Head south to Xochimilco , known for its Aztec-created canals and floating gardens, where you can rent a colorful trajinera boat to cruise the canals and enjoy mariachi music.

Then, visit the charming neighborhood of Coyoacán , including the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul) to see her paintings and personal belongings.

It is very important to book your Frida Kahlo Museum tickets well in advance as they sell out quickly!

• You have two options: get your tickets here (museum only) or consider this full-day tour (click here!) that includes hotel pickup, a trajinera ride through Xochimilco’s canals, and a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum.

Puebla de Zaragoza , famous for its colorful buildings, Talavera pottery, and rich history, is a charming colonial city surrounded by stunning volcanoes.

• Check out My detailed itinerary for spending one day in Puebla!

You could go straight from Puebla to Oaxaca (about 4 hours) or explore the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve , a UNESCO World Heritage Site with one of the world’s highest concentrations of columnar cacti.

You can take a guided tour in the Helia Bravo Hollis Botanical Garden in Zapotitlán Salinas , or visit Turritelas Park, which features paleontological attractions like marine fossils and dinosaur traces, and offers hikes, bike rides, and horseback riding.

4) Oaxaca (3 days )

The final stop of this road trip is Oaxaca , one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here are some of the numerous activities you can do in 3 days in Oaxaca :

• Explore the main attractions of the historic center (museums, markets, Jalatlaco, etc.)
• Taste the best grilled meats in Pasillo de Humo
• Visit Monte Albán , one of the first major cities in Mesoamerica
• Discover the artisan villages of San Antonio Arrazola, San Bartolo Coyotepec, San Martín Tilcajete, and Santo Tomás Jalieza
• Take a mezcal tour (book it here!) to learn about the fabrication process and enjoy tastings
• Visit the archaeological site of Mitla , the petrified waterfalls of Hierve El Agua, and Teotitlán del Valle , famous for its handwoven rugs (book the tour here!)

For the complete guide, check out my detailed 3-day itinerary for Oaxaca !

Road trip to Mexico: 10 days

This is the itinerary I recommend you to see the most in a 10 days road trip in Mexico :

• Chichen Itza
• Riviera Maya

To see the complete itinerary with all the details for your 10-day road trip in Mexico , click here: Recommended 10-Day Itinerary in Mexico

1) Mexico City (2 days )

Mexico City is a wonderful place to visit , with so much to see and do in just two days.

Some of the best things to do in Mexico City in 2 days are:

• Explore the historic center with the Zocalo, the cathedral, the Templo Mayor, Diego Rivera’s murals in the Palacio Nacional, and the Casa de los Azulejos (House of Tiles)
• Watch the spectacular show of the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico
• Browse the San Juan market for exotic foods
• Visit the famous National Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Castle in Chapultepec Park. Buy your tickets here!
• Discover Frida Kahlo’s Blue House in Coyoacan – Get your tickets here! (prior booking is required)
• Enjoy a boat ride on the Aztec canals of Xochimilco
• Wander around the trendy neighborhoods of La Roma and La Condesa
• Experience the lively atmosphere of Plaza Garibaldi
• Have fun watching Mexican Lucha Libre (wrestling)

Read also: My Ultimate Guide to Mexico City!

If you have some extra time, you should definitely visit Teotihuacan, one of Mexico’s most impressive archaeological sites.

This tour from Mexico City is a great choice, as it includes the hotel pick up, a morning guided tour (to avoid the crowds), as well as a tasting of mezcal, tequila and pulque, three typical Mexican drinks. You can book it here:

Check out: My Complete Guide to Visit Teotihuacan!

Head to San Cristobal de las Casas in the State of Chiapas from Mexico.

Day 1 – Discover the city and its main attractions

• You can read my article Top 15 Best Things to Do in San Cristobal de las Casas here!

Day 2 – Visit the stunning El Chiflón waterfalls and the Montebello Lakes National Park, two of the most amazing places in Chiapas .

The journey is quite long, so you may want to join this day tour, which includes hotel pick-up. You can book it here:

You may find these articles interesting:

• How to Visit El Chiflón?
• My Complete Guide to the Montebello Lakes!

Day 3 – The Sumidero Canyon : visit its viewpoints and enjoy a boat ride from Chiapa de Corzo’s dock. – Book the Sumidero Canyon tour here !

The journey from San Cristobal to Palenque takes about 5 to 5h30 so here is my suggestion for making the most of your day:

• In the morning: stop by the sites of Toniná, Agua Azul, and Misol Ha on your way.
• Have a lunch break when you reach the city of Palenque
• In the afternoon: explore the Archaeological Site of Palenque (3 hours)

Day 1 – Today you have an 8-hour drive ahead of you.

Depending on your arrival time, explore the city of Merida , the capital of the Yucatan State.

• Check out My Top 20 Things to Do and See in Mérida!

Day 2 – Since this 10-day road trip in Mexico by car does not allow you to see everything, I offer you two options:

Option 1: The site of Uxmal one of the most beautiful Mayan sites in the Yucatan . You can also visit the Chocolate museum and the site of Kabah.

• Book the tour to Uxmal and Kabah here!
• To read: my Definitive Guide to Uxmal !

Option 2 : Celestun is the best place to see flamingos in Mexico! You can spend the day there (beach, ecotourism, etc.)

• Book your pink flamingo tour in Celestun now!
• Check my Complete Guide to Celestun for all the activities you can do!

Day 1 – In the morning, visit the city of Chichen Itza , one of the New 7 Wonders of the World . – Here’s My Definitive Guide to Chichen Itza + Tips !

To avoid the long lines and crowds , book your tickets to Chichen Itza with skip-the-line access here:

In the afternoon, discover the colonial city of Valladolid

Day 2 – Visit Tulum : the ancient ruins, the stunning beaches like Playa Paraiso and Playa Las Palmas, the amazing cenotes, and more.

Those articles might interest you:

• The 21 Best Things to See and Do in Tulum!
• The 15 Most Beautiful Cenotes in Tulum

Day 3 – You will have wonderful day in Akumal , the best place to swim with turtles in Mexico!

The beautiful reptiles are protected and that’s why it is mandatory to be in a small group tour with a guide to see them.

You can book the tour here:

You can also enjoy its beautiful beaches and snorkeling in Akumal Bay, Half Moon Bay and Yal Ku Lagoon .

• More reading: The Best 17 Things to Do in Akumal !

Road trip in Mexico: 2 weeks

For a 2-week road trip in Mexico , you will the most beautiful places in Yucatan and Chiapas: Cancun, Chichen Itza, Merida, Campeche , Palenque, Bonampak and Yaxchilan, San Cristobal de las Casas, Balamku, Calakmul and Tulum.

• To discover the detailed itinerary with all my tips (and the list of the best hotels for all budgets!), check out my article: The Best 2-week Itinerary in Mexico.

After picking up your car in Cancun, you can start enjoying your trip: the beaches, the archaeological site El Rey, the Mayan museum.

You can also dive in the MUSA, which is the largest underwater museum in the world, with about 500 sculptures! Book your diving tour here!

If you are looking for some fun nightlife in Cancun , here are some options:

• City Nightclub (the biggest nightclub in the country!)
• The famous Coco Bongo Club (get your tickets here)
• Xoximilco Cancun to enjoy a Mexican party with dancing, mariachis, Mexican food and open bar (beer or tequila). Buy your tickets for Xoximilco here:
• Check out my complete guide: The 30 Best Things to Do in Cancun!

Day 1 – Start your 15-day road trip through Mexico by visiting Ek Balam , which was an important capital of the Mayan culture.

After the visit, you can cool off at the Xkeken and Samulá cenotes (which are next to each other), or Cenote X-Canché

In the afternoon, discover Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO world heritage site: the temple of Kukulcán, the astronomical observatory, the Mayan ball game, and more.

• For more information, take a look at my Complete Guide to Chichen Itza.
• Chichen Itza can get very crowded. To avoid the long lines, get your skip-the-line tickets here:

Start your day by exploring Merida : the Plaza Grande (where you can find the Macay museum, the cathedral, the Casa de Montejo, and the best part is that they are all free😃!), the colorful colonial houses on 64th street, and the local market.

• If you want to learn more about the amazing attractions that Mérida has to offer, check out my Definitive Guide to Mérida

In the afternoon, visit Uxmal , a Maya site famous for its stunning Puuc-style architecture, and then Kabah just 20 min away. You can read: My Complete Guide to Uxmal and Kabah

Head to Campeche for a night stay.

Enjoy the beautiful historic center of Campeche : visit the Baluarte San Francisco, Baluarte San Carlos, the Museum of Mayan Architecture, the main square with the cathedral, the cultural center El Palacio and Casa no6.

• For all the best attractions of Campeche, check out the Top 20 Things to Do in Campeche!

In the afternoon, explore Edzná, one of the most important Mayan sites in the Yucatán , which is still not very crowded by tourists. You can read: My Complete Guide to Visit Edzná !

5) Palenque ( 2 days)

Day 1 – Today you will start a new part of your 15-day road trip through Mexico, as you leave the Yucatan Peninsula and head to Chiapas.

You will need to wake up early, as you have a 5-hour drive ahead of you!

Explore the Archaeological Site of Palenque , which was once an important trading center thanks to its strategic location between the coast and the mountains.

Day 2 – Bonampak and Yaxchilán

• Bonampak is famous for its frescoed murals, the most complete representation of a pre-Hispanic civilization discovered so far!
• Yaxchilan boasts its sculptures that are masterpieces of Mayan art.

The roads are poorly marked and the signal (for GPS, etc.) in the Lacandon jungle is very weak. Besides, to get to Yaxchilan you have to leave your car and take a boat on the Usumacinta river.

So I suggest you take the guided tour from Palenque , which includes pick-up from your hotel, entrance fees and boat, plus breakfast and lunch.

You can book here:

Day 1 – Drive from Palenque to San Cristóbal de las Casas (5h)

On the way you can stop by the waterfalls of Misol Ha and Agua Azul , as well as the Mayan site of Toniná.

Day 2 – Tzotzil villages and San Cristóbal de las Casas

Start the day by visiting Zinacantán and San Juan Chamula , two traditional Tzotzil communities.

You can book the tour from San Cristobal (click here!)  which includes demonstration of handicraft techniques and tasting of pox, a liquor from Chiapas.

Go back to San Cristobal de las Casas and explore:

• Calle Real de Guadalupe with its restaurants and cafes
• The Church of Guadalupe
• The Textile Center of the Mayan World with its 500 textile pieces from Chiapas and Guatemala
• The handicrafts market
• The zocalo with the cathedral

Check out My Complete Guide to San Cristobal de las Casas !

Day 1 – Continue your 2-week road trip in Mexico to the archaeological site of Balamkú hidden in the dense jungle.

It’s a long drive, it will take you round 9 hours.

So, if you leave very early , you will have time to visit Balamkú , or else you will have to go straight to Xpujil to spend the night.

Day 2 – Today you will visit Calakmul , which is a Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO .

• Read my Definitive Guide to Calakmul!

I suggest you arrive as soon as the site opens to give yourself enough time to explore Calakmul (because there is so much to see!) and drive to Tulum (4h) the same day.

The Tulum region has the most beautiful beaches on this road trip in Mexico for 14-15 days!

Day 1 – Start with the archaeological site of Tulum , then head to a cenote to refresh yourself. Check out My List of the Best Cenotes in Tulum!

Take a stroll along the beaches of Tulum and find your favorite beach: Playa Paraiso , Xpu-Ha , Xcacel , etc., there are plenty of options!

• To discover all the most beautiful attractions in Tulum , don’t miss my Top 21 Things to Do and See in Tulum !

Day 2 – Explore the Sian Ka’an reserve, a paradise of biodiversity

You will have to choose between two access points:

• Muyil to discover the swamps, the freshwater lagoons, the ruins of Muyil – Book the Muyil tour here
• Punta Allen for the beach, the saltwater lakes, to snorkel in the coral reefs and see the dolphins. – Book the tour to Punta Allen here!

This is the end of this 2 week stay in Mexico .

Go back to Cancun to return your rental car and catch your flight home.

Roadtrip to Mexico: 3 weeks

For a 3-week road trip in Mexico , I have created this itinerary from Mexico City to the Riviera Maya .

It will let you discover the main attractions of the states of Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatan and Quintana Roo .

• Check my detailed itinerary with hotels and all my travel tips here: The Ultimate 3-week Itinerary for Mexico!

Begin your 21-day road trip in Mexico with Mexico City, the capital.

Here’s what you can do in 2 or 3 days in Mexico :

• Visit the Chapultepec Castel and the National Museum of Anthropology , one of the most important museums in the world – Buy your tickets with guided tour here!
• Spend half a day in the historic center of Mexico City with the cathedral, the main temple, the Government Palace, the Zocalo, the Casa de los Azulejos, the Palace of Fine Arts
• Watch the Mexico City Folkloric Ballet Show
• Visit Frida Kahlo’s house in the district of Coyoacan and enjoy a boat ride through the canals of Xochimilco. Book your visit here!
• See the mariachis at Plaza Garibaldi – Book your night with the mariachis here!
• Stroll through the neighborhoods of Roma and Condesa with their parks, bars, restaurants, terraces and shops.
• Take the Mexico City Tourist Bus – Get your tickets here!
• Explore Teotihuacan, which is Mexico City’s most important must-see! – Book your guided tour of Teotihuacan now!
• Watch the lucha libre (Mexican Wrestling) – Reserve your seat here ! (mask and tequila included)

If you want to know everything about Mexico City, check out My Ultimate Guide to Mexico City !

Leave Mexico City and head to the State of Puebla .

Start by visiting Cholula where you will find the largest pyramid in the world , with a volume 4 times bigger than that of the Great Pyramid of Giza !

Next, head to the beautiful city of Puebla , whose historic center is a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Puebla has a lot to offer , for example:

• The magnificent Puebla Cathedral, the second largest in Mexico
• The Palafoxiana library , the 1st public library in the Americas
• The Amparo museum with its nice rooftop terrace
• El Parian market , where you will find talaveras and other typical handicrafts
• The colorful facades of the Calle de los Sapos
• Discover the secret tunnels (17th-19th centuries) that connect the Ovando Bridge and the Historical Passage 5 de Mayo

Check out my article on The 25 Things to Do in Puebla , where I share the best attractions and activities in and around this beautiful city!

Continue your 3-week road trip in Mexico to the state of Oaxaca , famous for its cuisine and cultural diversity.

Day 1 – Visit Oaxaca de Juarez , the beautiful capital of the state

• Discover the church and ex-convent of Santo Domingo de Guzman, which houses the museum of cultures and the famous ethnobotanical garden of Oaxaca .
• The Mercado 20 de Noviembre , Oaxaca’s most popular market, with its grilled meats aisle nicknamed “ Pasillo de Humo ”.
• Stroll along the Andador Turistico , the main square, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Oaxaca, and the Government Palace.

I suggest you also read: The 20 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca (city)

Day 2 – See Oaxaca’s wonders: the world’s largest tree by trunk volume, Santa María del Tule ; the artisan village of Teotitlán del Valle ; the Zapotec ruins of Mitla ; and the mineral springs and waterfalls of Hierve el Agua.

You can book this tour from Oaxaca that includes all these attractions, with a visit to a mezcal distillery where you can sample the local spirit , made from the agave plant.

Day 3 – Today you can explore Monte Alban , a site that was inhabited by the Olmecs , Zapotecs , and Mixtecs for over 1500 years.

You can join this great tour to Monte Alban from Oaxaca that also includes:

• A visit to San Antonio Arrazola to see how the colorful Alebrijes (traditional Mexican folk art) are made.
• A stop at the former Dominican monastery of Cuilapam de Guerrero .
• A tour of San Bartolo Coyotepec , famous for its “barro negro” , or black clay pottery.

Day 1 – Travel to San Cristobal de las Casas, a charming colonial city in the state of Chiapas.

It’s a long journey of about 9 hours, so you should leave early to have some time to explore the city.

• For more information: Top 15 Things to Do in San Cristobal de las Casas!

Day 2 – In the morning, head to El Chiflón Waterfalls . You can admire all 5 waterfalls along a scenic trail (1h-1h30 visit).

Continue to the Montebello Lakes , a huge Biosphere Reserve located on the border with Guatemala .

The drive from San Cristobal to El Chiflón and Montebello is long and challenging, so I recommend booking this tour (click here to book!) that includes hotel pick-up, transportation, entrance fees, and the guide.

Day 3 – Since this is your last day in the region, I suggest you choose between two options:

• Option 1: The Sumidero Canyon , a breathtaking canyon that you can explore with a boat tour on the Grijalva River and then enjoy the views from its scenic overlooks. – Book your Sumidero Canyon tour now!
• Option 2: the traditional villages of Zinacantán and San Juan Chamula , where you can learn about the culture and customs of the indigenous communities. – Book your visit to the villages now!

Today, explore Palenque , one of the most important ancient cities in Mesoamerica!

To get from San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque , you will need to travel for about 5h30

For some stops on the way, try: the ruins of Toniná, the waterfalls of Agua Azul, and the spectacular Misol Ha.

• Check out my complete guide: How to Visit Palenque

Keep going on your 21-day road trip through Mexico and visit the charming colonial city of Campeche .

In 1 or 2 days in Campeche , you can wander around the city walls , see the museum of Mayan architecture, walk along the waterfront facing the Gulf of Mexico , taste Chocol’Ha chocolates , and much more!

• Check out: My Complete Guide to Campeche!

Spend 2 days in Mérida on your 21-day Mexico road trip.  You can:

• See pink flamingos in Celestun’s biosphere reserve on a boat tour (1h30-2h30). Admire these birds and their habitat.- Book your Ceslestun excursion here!
• Explore Merida , Yucatan’s capital and Mexico’s safest city. Enjoy its colonial architecture, markets, cuisine, and culture. Read My Complete Merida Guide!
• Visit Uxmal , an ancient Mayan ally of Chichen Itza. Also see the chocolate museum and Kabah, another Mayan city. – Book the Uxma and Kabah tour here!

Visit Chichen Itza , the world’s most famous Mayan site. Marvel at Kukulkan’s pyramid, the Warriors’ Temple, the Observatory, and more – Buy your fast-track tickets to Chichen Itza here!

• For more details and tips on Chichen Itza, see my Complete Guide to Chichen Itza!

Then, cool off in a cenote. There are many cenotes near Valladolid, and you can choose one with my Guide to the 21 Best Cenotes in Valladolid .

Discover Valladolid , a beautiful colonial town with a rich history and culture. You can visit the Francisco Canton park, the San Servacio church, the San Roque museum, the lovely Calzada de los Frailes, and the San Bernardino Convent.

• Here is my guide What to See and Do in Valladolid?

Spend a few days on Holbox island on your 20-21-22 day Mexico road trip .

In 2-3 days , enjoy Punta Mosquito and Punta Cocos’ sandy beaches, a boat tour (to Isla Pájaros, Laguna Yalahau and Isla de la Pasión), and more.

• Read: How to Visit Holbox?

Day 1 – Leave Holbox and head to Tulum , in the Riviera Maya . Visit the amazing ruins of Tulum , its stunning cenotes, the Beach Strip and its sandy beaches.

Check out my guides:

• The 21 Best Things to Do in Tulum

Day 2 – Explore the Sian Ka’an reserve , south of Tulum . You can choose between:

• Muyil (half day) to see the Mayan site of Muyil, the mangroves, the jungle – Book the Muyil tour from Tulum
• Punta Allen (1 day) which offers a more complete experience . You will be able to see the beach of the Sian Ka’an coast, take a boat trip to see dolphins, etc. Book the tour to Punta Allen

Day 1 – Start with a visit to the Rio Secreto caves , an incredible guided tour to navigate an underground river with a guide.

It is mandatory to book in advance:

Next, head to Xpu Ha , one of the most beautiful beaches in the Riviera Maya . You can also visit the Cenote Azul , which is very close by.

Day 2 – Cozumel Island

To get to Cozumel, you have to take the ferry from Playa del Carmen – Get your ferry tickets here!

There is a ton of things to do and see in Cozumel , I suggest you make your choice among these options:

• Discover Punta Sur : with snorkeling and lunch at a beach club – Book the jeep tour to Punta Sur here!
• Entrance ticket to Chankanaab with access to the park and snorkeling with guide – Book your tickets here
• Snorkeling tour in 3 reefs, ideal for families – Book the snorkeling tour here
• Electric bike tour with cenote, snorkeling, beach and tequila tasting – Book the tour here
• Tour to El Cielo to see starfish , as well as the Palancar reef – Book the tour to El Cielo here
• Jungle adventure with quad biking, cave exploration, cenote and tequila tasting – Book the adventure tour here
• Go to Playa Mia Gran Beach Park which offers more than 20 activities.
• Tour aboard the Atlantis XII submarine so you can explore the Chankanaab reef – Save your spot on the submarine now

To read: My complete guide on The 15 Best Things to Do in Cozumel!

Day 3 – Spend the last day of your roadtrip in Mexico in Playa del Carmen .

You can enjoy the beaches and stroll along Quinta Avenida.

I invite you to read my articles:

• Playa del Carmen: Top 30 Things to Do and See!
• How to Visit Playa del Carmen on a Budget
• 12 Cenotes you can’t miss in Playa del Carmen

Road trip in Mexico: 1 month

One month in Mexico lets you see many attractions at a relaxed pace.

Some must-see places in Mexico with my itinerary are:

• Mexico and Teotihuacan
• Oaxaca : Monte Alban and Hierve el Agua
• Chiapas : Sumidero Canyon, San Cristobal de las Casas, the Tzotzil villages, El Chiflón, Montebello, Palenque
• Bacalar Lagoon
• Mérida and the flamingos of Celestún
• Ek Balam and the pink lakes of Las Coloradas
• Tulum : the city of Cobá, swimming with turtles in Akumal, Sian Ka’an

And let’s not forget the cenotes and beaches!

• Find the best One-Month Mexico to Cancun road trip  in my article: 1 Month in Mexico: The Best Itinerary!

Begin your 30-day Mexico road trip in Mexico City.

• Don’t miss anything in the capital with this Complete Guide to Mexico City !

Some things to do there are:

• Frida Kahlo’s house and the boat ride in Xochimilco –  you can book your tour here!
• The mariachis in Plaza Garibaldi
• The National Museum of Anthropology and the Chapultepec Castle – Buy here your tickets with guided tour !
• The city of Teotihuacan , Mexico’s must-see site –  Book your early morning guided tour here to avoid the crowds.

My advice A great way to explore the city is the tourist bus that shows you the main attractions.

You can buy tickets for the bus here ,  valid for a day on 4 itineraries:

Day 1 – It takes about 5h45 to drive from Mexico City to Oaxaca de Juarez.

If you prefer to make a stop on the road, you can spend a night in Tehuacan and visit the Helia Bravo Hollis Botanical Garden in the Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve.

Day 2 – Visit the city of Oaxaca : the convent of Santo Domingo de Guzman, the museum of cultures, the ethnobotanical garden, the 20 de noviembre market, the Calle Macedonio, the handicraft market, etc.

• Check out: The 20 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca (city)

Day 3 –  Visit Monte Alban , a major archaeological site in Mexico and an Oaxaca road trip highlight.

Stroll through the surrounding villages: Cuilapam de Guerrero to visit its Dominican convent, San Antonio Arrazola or San Martin Tilcajete to discover the alebrijes manufacturing workshops and San Bartolo Coyotepec for the “ barro negro ” pottery.

You can also book the Monte Alban Tour with hotel pick-up in Oaxaca. It includes the villages route:

Day 4 – Visit Santa Maria del Tule , Teotitlan del Valle, the site of Mitla and  Hierve el Agua . –  Book the Hierve el Agua tour now!

Day 1 – Today you will travel from Oaxaca to Chiapas . It will take you about 8 hours to reach the city of Tuxtla Gutierrez.

You can go to the Marimba Park , where people gather to dance (from 6 pm to 8 pm) to the rhythm of the marimba .

Day 2 – Discover the Sumidero Canyon , a must on your 1 month road trip in Mexico .

Drive along the scenic route of the viewpoints , then enjoy the boat ride on the Grijalva River from the pier of Chiapa de Corzo .

Then visit the traditional town of Chiapa de Corzo before returning to Tuxtla Gutierrez .

If you prefer, you can join the Sumidero Canyon Tour (click here to book!) with pick up at your hotel,  the boat, the viewpoints and free time in Chiapa de Corzo.

• For more information, check out: How to Visit the Sumidero Canyon?

Day 1 – Spend the day visiting San Cristobal de las Casas, the charming cultural capital of Chiapas .

• Check out the Top 15 Things to Do in San Cristobal de las Casas!

Day 2 – El Chiflón and Montebello Lakes are two magnificent sites you can’t miss on your road trip in Chiapas !

Leave early in the morning because the trip is long .

Start at El Chiflón to see its 5 turquoise waterfalls: El Suspiro, Ala de Ángel, Velo de Novia, Arcoíris and Quinceañera.

Then continue on to Lagunas de Montebello National Park which is home to 59 lakes! I suggest you go to Lake Tzizcao, then Lake Pojoj, Cinco Lagos and Lake Montebello.

• I recommend this small group guided tour with hotel pick up , visit to El Chiflón and Montebello Lakes :

Day 3 – The Tzotzil villages of Zinacantán and San Juan Chamula

These towns are 20 minutes away from San Cristobal. For a guided tour with more information, you can Book it here!

Today you will visit Palenque , a Chiapas road trip must-see!

You can drive from San Cristobal de las Casas (5h30) or stop at Toniná, Agua Azul waterfalls, or Misol-Ha.

Discover the great Mayan city of Calakmul , declared a Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Then, head to Xpujil and spend the night there.

• Don’t miss The Complete Guide to Calakmul!

Next, visit Bacalar, famous for its stunning 7-color Lagoon.

You can take a catamaran tour (click here!) with music and drinks, or a stand up paddle tour at sunrise ( book it here! )

• Check out The 17 Best Things to Do in Bacalar!

Day 1 – Visit Merida , the capital of the Yucatan.

Wander around the Plaza Grande, Casa de Montejo, the cathedral, the Macay museum, Paseo Montejo and Parque Santa Lucia.

For a foodie treat in Mérida, try this gastronomic experience that includes a market visit and a Yucatan cuisine cooking lesson.  Book it here:

Day 2 – Uxmal, Kabah, the Chocolate Museum

Today, visit Uxmal , a Mayan site with the Pyramid of the Magician, the Great Pyramid, the Governor’s Palace, the Mesoamerican ballgame court , and more.

See the Choco-Story chocolate museum near Uxmal’s entrance. Enjoy a tropical garden, a Chaac ceremony, and Mayan chocolate.

Kabah , 20 minutes away, is also worth a a quick visit.

• Read my Ultimate Guide to Uxmal!

If you prefer, you can book a Uxmal and Kabah tour from Mérida (click here!)

Day 3 – Watch the flamingos at the Celestun Biosphere Reserve

Afterwards, you can enjoy the beach, stroll through the town of Celestún and do ecotourism at Jaltún Park.

• Read: How to See the Flamingos in Celestun?

For a hassle-free Celestun trip with Merida pick-up, book this tour (click here!) . It includes the boat ride to see the flamingos and lunch on the beach.

Day 1 – Visit Chichen Itza , the most powerful city in the Yucatan Peninsula! Read my article on Chichen Itza

My advice Chichen Itza can get very crowded. To avoid long lines, book your fast-track tickets to Chichen Itza here :

In the afternoon, visit the yellow city of Izamal : Itzamná Park, 5 de Mayo Park, the neighborhoods of San Ildefonso, Los Remedios and El Gallito, and the Convent of San Antonio de Padua.

Don’t miss the pyramids (free admission!) Kinich Kakmó (112 ft) and Iztamatul (72 ft) that offer a beautiful view of the surroundings!

• Read my complete guide: Visit The Yellow City of Izamal in Mexico!

Day 2 – Visit some cenotes in Valladolid. There are many amazing ones to choose from! See my TOP 21 of the Cenotes of Valladolid

Explore Valladolid’s colonial city: What to See and Do in Valladolid?

Day 3 – Visit Ek Balam , and the biosphere reserve of Rio Lagartos, where you can admire the famous pink lakes of Las Coloradas.

Day 1 – Start the visit of Coba, which was a major Mayan city, and admire Nohoch Mul (137 ft), the second highest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula .

Then head back to Tulum . Stroll along the Beach Strip (restaurants, bars, stores) and enjoy the beaches.

• To learn everything about Tulum , here is My Definitive Guide to Tulum

Day 2 – Visit the Ruins of Tulum , go down to the beach of the ruins and then cool off in a cenote.

• Choose from my TOP 15 of the Cenotes to Visit in Tulum !

You can also book this Tulum tour (ruins and cenote) with pick up at your hotel. Book it here:

Day 3 – Spend the day in Akumal, the best place to swim with turtles in Mexico !

Sea turtles are protected: you need a guide and follow rules to not disturb them. ❤️

Take the tour from the beach or this complete tour with hotel pick-up in Tulum . It includes snorkeling with the turtles, a cenote and a grotto.

Book it here:

• Check out: My Complete Guide to Akumal!

Day 4 –  Don’t miss the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve on your 30-day Mexico road trip.

You have to choose between two entrances:

• Punta Allen (recommended) to take advantage of the beach, go on a boat ride, snorkeling in the coral reef – Book the day tour to Punta Allen now!
• Muyil , to discover the interior of the reserve with swamps, lagoons and the ruins of Muyil- Book the half day tour to Muyil now!

Head to the port of Chiquilá to take the ferry (20 min) to reach Holbox .

Enjoy an island paradise with sandy beaches and no mass tourism near Riviera Maya!

• See all Holbox offers in My Definitive Guide to Holbox!

Enjoy the last stage of your 1-month Mexico road trip ! You can:

• Visit the beaches of Cancun
• Enjoy the panoramic view from the top of the Scenic Tower (110m high)
• Go to Market 28
• Dive in the waters of the MUSA, the world’s largest underwater museum – You can book the snorkeling tour at MUSA here!
• Go kitesurfing at Isla Blanca
• Party in a Mexican fiesta with a typical lunch, mariachis and open bar – You can book your place in Xoximilco Cancun here!

Check out my complete guide: Top 30 Things to Do in Cancun

Where to stay in Mexico during your road trip?

Click on each itinerary to find the best hotels for each stage.

Here are the best accommodations in Mexico’s Main Destinations :

• Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral (historic center): one of the best hostels in Mexico City . Clean dorms and rooms, amazing rooftop terrace with bar , great atmosphere and an exceptional view over the cathedral and the Zocalo, starting at 15$usd for a dorm and 32 $usd for a private room!
• Hotel Villa Condesa (Condesa): if you are looking for a romantic hotel in Mexico City , this is a little oasis in the heart of La Condesa. It is an elegant house with small green terraces and tastefully decorated rooms. Rooms are spacious, breakfast is very good and the service is particularly attentive. Around  160$usd per night!
• Casa Goliana (Roma Norte): high-end hotel with the best value for money in its category, located in an early 20th century house, typical of the Roma area. Rooftop terrace, comfortable rooms, very attentive staff, and good breakfasts. Around  190$usd per night
• Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City (Juarez): this 5 star hotel is one of the best hotels in Mexico City , ideal for a business trip or a romantic stay . Located on Paseo de la Reforma between Colonia Juarez and Roma Norte. A large indoor garden, gym, swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar, Around 640$usd per night!
• Mayan Monkey Cancun : hostel with a festive atmosphere in Cancun’s hotel zone , very close to the beach and bars. Terrace, outdoor pool, bar with happy hour , air conditioning, ping-pong, good wifi. Private rooms and dorms, from only 24$usd!
• Bed and Breakfast Pecari : if you are looking for more comfort, I recommend without hesitation this establishment. It is a beautiful Bed and Breakfast located in a quiet street near the city center and the ADO bus station, with a relaxation area by the pool, spacious rooms, and a good breakfast, starting at 50$usd per night!
• Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites: rooms, suites, and villas for 2 to 12 people with direct access to the beach . Outdoor pool, children’s pool, gym, restaurant, beach bar. Breakfast included, starting at 218$usd per night.
• The Royal Sands Resort & Spa : spacious rooms and suites with ocean views, in the heart of Cancun’s hotel zone. Large outdoor pool, gym, spa, fine restaurants, sports bar and many activities. All inclusive, starting at 485 $usd per night

My tip For more options, you can visit my article about the best hotels and resorts in Cancun and find your perfect hotel. Here is the link: Where to Stay in Cancun?

• Che Playa Hostel & Bar Adults Only : great hostel to meet other travelers and party , with a rooftop terrace that has a bar and a small pool, with several offered activities . Clean, with good wifi and a great welcome. From only 13 $usd for the dormitory or 37 $usd for a private room!
• Hotel Lunata : a charming hotel with hacienda style decoration, which is hidden on Quinta Avenida, very close to the beach . Quiet, with a garden, rooms with balcony, and has very friendly service. From only 82 $usd per night!
• Porto Playa Condo Beach Club : here you will find a spacious apartment ideal for a family , with fully equipped kitchen, living room and terrace. The hotel has a large swimming pool , a gym and a restaurant, starting at 172 $usd per night!
• The Reef Playacar Resort & Spa : located on the beautiful beach of Playacar , just a few minutes from Fifth Avenue . Ideal for a romantic stay , with a beautiful tropical garden, two pools, a gym and a spa. 200 $usd with the “all inclusive” formula.
• Hotel Xcaret Mexico All Parks All Fun Inclusive: it is definitely the best hotel in Playa del Carmen! Ideal for couples and families with children as this luxury hotel offers an exceptional package including meals and access to its parks (Xcaret, Xplor , Xplor Fuego, Xenses, Xoximilco, Xel-Ha and Xenote). Starting at 860 $usd per night, all inclusive.

My tip Check out my comprehensive guide to find the perfect hotel or resort for your stay . Here’s the link: Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen?  

• The Coffee Bean Hostel : A very cozy hostel with nice common areas, a restaurant and bar, a garden, terrace with hammocks, pool tables and several breakfast options, starting at 12 $usd in a shared dorm!
• Parador Margarita : Only 3 blocks from the main square and the bus station, it is a small haven of peace with a garden and very comfortable beds. Wifi and breakfast are included, only 46 $usd per night!
• Hotel Diego de Mazariegos: A magnificent 18th century mansion with a preserved Mexican colonial style, a charming interior courtyard with a fountain and classic decoration in warm tones. The hotel has two restaurants and a bar. Wifi and breakfast included, from only 73 $usd per night!
• Casa Lum Hotel Boutique: My favorite hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas ! It is a small and sophisticated hotel decorated between modernity and traditional design. Includes a great restaurant, a terrace with a panoramic view over the city and a garden. A few steps from the main square, it is the ideal place for lovers, from 164 $usd per night!
• Viajero Oaxaca Hostel : A vibrant, social hostel with dorm beds from $19 and private rooms from $62 . Highlights include a fun atmosphere, an amazing rooftop bar, and many tours and activities. It’s my top choice in Oaxaca, ideal for solo travelers and those looking to connect with others while exploring the city!
• NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca : A welcoming hotel perfect for families , with rooms starting at $142 per night. Highlights include a family-friendly atmosphere, vibrant decor, and a central location near all the main sights. It’s an ideal, affordable base for families exploring Oaxaca.
• Hotel Azul de Oaxaca : This boutique 4-star hotel, just a short walk from Santo Domingo Church, offers stylish rooms with a blend of contemporary design and traditional Mexican flair, starting at $305 per night . Highlights include a rooftop bar with stunning views , a delicious breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a café serving freshly baked bread!
• Quinta Real Oaxaca: Located in a former convent from the 16th century, 500 meters from Santo Domingo Church and 700 meters from the Zocalo. Elegant room and romantic atmosphere, from 400 $usd per night . Strong points: the stunning architecture, the outdoor pool, the gourmet restaurant. This is my choice for a luxury stay in Oaxaca!

My tip Check out My full guide to find the best places to stay in Oaxaca , from budget hostels to luxury hotels!

• Mayan Monkey Tulum:  An excellent value for money . Nice modern hostel with a good atmosphere, a pool, bar and garden. Including fast wifi, kitchen access, yoga classes, coworking spaces, and bike and motorcycle rentals. Dorms and private rooms starting at only 24 $usd per night.
• Casa Almendro:  If you are looking for a little more comfort, you will like this small cheap hotel in the center of Tulum . It’s a green oasis with a rooftop terrace with chairs and hammocks. There are king size beds and breakfast is included, from only 50 $usd per night!
• Diamante K:  Is a high-end hotel but at a very fair price , which is exceptional in Tulum, especially for a hotel with direct access to the beach in the hotel zone! Bohemian chic atmosphere, including a restaurant, hammocks and beds on the private beach, and a massage service. Bungalows are 207 $usd per night.
• Habitas Tulum: This small eco-friendly hotel with a chic design is ideal for a romantic stay in Tulum . It is a true oasis of peace, hidden among the palm trees, with a magnificent swimming pool and a private beach. There are also yoga classes on the terrace at sunset. From 371 $usd per night!
• Kanan Tulum- Adults Only: This is the ultimate option for a luxury stay in Tulum . It is an ecological hotel for adults only, located on a beautiful private beach with hammocks and beds. With a fantastic rooftop terrace with a bar; the hotel also has an excellent restaurant, great rooms and a very friendly welcome. From 566 $usd per night!

Doing a road trip in Mexico by car is definitely the best way to explore this country!

Here are some of my latest tips for your road trip in Mexico:

• Don’t drive at night:  roads are poorly lit and there is a higher risk of accidents. Also, many areas of Mexico are not safe during these hours.
• Expect checkpoints by police, army, or locals. Don’t panic, they are routine.
• Sometimes people take over checkpoints to protest.  Give them a coin to pass.
• Watch out for speed bumps, called “topes”.  They are high and can damage your car.
• You need a valid driver’s license in Mexico . An international one is not required.
• Choose toll roads, called “de cuota”. They are better and safer than free roads.
• Get a TAG (electronic toll plate): the app lets you recharge it ( Android – Iphone) or at a point . It also helps you calculate your road trip budget (tolls + gas)!

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore the country and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

The best time for a Mexico road trip depends on the region.

Generally, November to February is good : less rain, heat, and humidity.

Avoid the rainy season (May to October): more rain, cloudy water, and possible hurricanes (especially in September).

My advice  You can still go to Mexico in the rainy season. Many travelers enjoy it.

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
• Yucatan Peninsula : Top 20 things to Do and See
• Cancun : the 35 Best Things to Discover
• Playa del Carmen : Top 30 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions
• Itinerary : 8-10 days in Mexico   – From Mexico City to Oaxaca
• Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico   – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

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• All our Guides about Mexico

The Ultimate 4-6 Week Mexico Itinerary

Let’s face it. We’ve all been guilty of spending too much of our precious time running around trying to spin too many plates. If the last couple of years has taught us anything, it’s to slow down and focus on what really matters. What makes you happy.

Has there ever been a better time to take a month or two out for yourself? To re-set. To re-energise.

And what better way to do that than to embark on a bucket list trip . And what better place to reboot than magical Mexico.

So, to help you out, we’ve put together our top picks of our favourite authentic Mexico travel destinations . In fact, our Undertourists Mexico Itinerary will help you plan an unforgettable Mexico trip.

Escape the tourist crowds in Cancún and Baja and discover authentic Mexico with our ultimate Mexico itinerary. Embrace local travel in this car-free adventure perfect for independent travellers.

Strap in. It’s time to hit the road.

How long should you spend in Mexico?

Whether you’ve got two weeks or two months, there’s always an opportunity to put together an unforgettable Mexico itinerary.

In two weeks, you can travel through the Mexican states of Quintana Roo, Yucatán and Chiapas . Relax in shimmering Laguna Bacalar, and discover amazing Mayan sites like Tulum, Cobá, Palenque, Chichen Itza and Uxmal. Hang out in cultural Mérida, hit the highlands at San Cristóbal de las Casas and take a boat trip through the stunning Cañón del Sumidero.

With 4 weeks you can do this and much more on an epic overland journey from easy-to-access Cancún in the east to bustling Mexico City in central Mexico. Discover cultural riches, stunning beaches, ancient Mayan sites and one of Latin America’s best capital cities.

Add in two more weeks and you can continue further west to alternative Guadalajara via gorgeous Guanajuato and monumental Morelia.

Whether your Mexico itinerary is two weeks, one month or more, be warned… you may find it difficult to leave!!

Related read: Tips for Planning the Ultimate Trip to Mexico

When is the best time to visit Mexico?

Before we jump into the amazing places you’ll explore on our Mexico itinerary, it’s important to consider when is the best time to visit Mexico . As a responsible traveller, you’ll want to ensure that you’ve done your planning, particularly since Mexico has a distinct hurricane season, which would be best to avoid.

Having said that, Mexico remains an ideal off peak travel destination. Visit in low season to avoid the crowds and take advantage of some bargain prices in less popular places.

The best time to visit Mexico is in late September to November , for good weather without the crowds. Just be aware that there can be some rain in coastal areas. May and June are also some of the best months to visit Mexico, although temperatures can get a little hot and you may experience some rain on the Pacific coast.

Whenever you decide to visit Mexico, we recommend avoiding high season (December to April), when tourist crowds can often overwhelm local destinations with limited infrastructure. It’s also best to avoid hurricane season (late June to September) which can seriously hamper overland journeys!

Related read: Is it Safe to Travel to Mexico?

What’s the best way to get around Mexico?

Now you’ve got the low-down on the best time to visit Mexico, let’s take a quick look at how to get around. After all, it’s pretty difficult to take on an epic Mexico itinerary without getting your head round the transport options!

In case you’re worried about how difficult getting around Mexico can be, the good news is that generally speaking bus travel on our Mexico itinerary should be safe, affordable and comfortable. You’ll be able to reach all of these incredible destinations without the hassle, carbon impact and cost of a hire car. Not only are bus journeys the best choice for sustainable travel, but you’ll also get to meet other travellers and locals too.

Ado serves the majority of routes in the Yucatán , Chiapas and beyond and is a great choice. OCC is also a good option. Primera Plus and ETN serve central and northern routes.

Search for bus tickets on 12Go .

Related read: Road Trips in Mexico: The Best Routes

The Ultimate DIY Mexico Itinerary | Authentic Mexican destinations

Now you know the best time to visit Mexico and the best way to get around Mexico. So there’s only one thing left to do…discover authentic Mexican destinations on our epic Mexico itinerary.

Beach bar at the Laguna Bacalar in Mexico.

Day 1-4 | Bliss out in Bacalar

Grab a cheap flight to Cancún and jump on an ADO bus from the airport south to Bacalar, close to the Belize border. Here you’ll find the gorgeous blue waters of Laguna Bacalar – one of the best chill out spots we’ve ever been to! This is a perfect place to unwind, sample some local beers and decompress before your big adventure. Kick back for a couple of days before the real adventure begins.

Day 5-7 | Discover the treasures of Tulum

Now you’ve found your zen, it’s time to hit the next destination of our Mexico itinerary – Tulum. As a popular choice for tourists in Mexico, this is one place you’ve probably heard of! Whilst admittedly quite touristy, travel off-season and you’ll get the chance to enjoy the stunning Tulum ruins, discover sparkling cenotes (sink holes) and explore the forested ruins of Cobá.

On balance, we feel that these makes Tulum a good place to base yourself for a couple of days. And that’s why we’ve included it in our Mexico itinerary! Stay in local guesthouses, eat local, and take local colectivos for a more enriching and authentic travel experience.

Related read: Where to Stay in Tulum: Budget Beachfront Accommodation

Tulum Ruins at the Atlantic Ocean in Mexico.

Day 8-10 | Explore Mayan Mérida

So you’ve soaked off in cenotes and got a taste for mesmerising Mexican ruins… it’s time for week two of our Mexico itinerary. Next stop is Yucatán’s delightful cultural capital – Mérida . Wander around beautiful museums and colonial houses. Cycle around the traffic-free streets on Sunday morning before sampling some of the best cochinita and lechón tacos in Mexico at the authentic food stalls in Parque Santa Lucia. In the evening catch a free concert in the lively main square as the sun sets.

Mérida also makes a great base for a DIY tour to the mighty Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza, or an organised day tour to Uxmal . These two ancient sites are major highlights of any trip to Mexico.

Related read: Restaurants in Yucatan, Mexico: Five Culinary Experiences

Temple in Uxmal, Mexico.

Day 11-13 | Pick up the pace in Palenque

Half way through the second week of our Mexico itinerary, and it’s time to discover some of our favourite hidden gems in Mexico. To get some real off-the-beaten track adventure, head next to Palenque town and hop in a local colectivo to the backpacker’s area of El Panchan. Wake up to the reverberating calls of howler monkeys before exploring the jungle-clad ancient ruins of magnificent Palenque.

The next day, head deeper into the jungle to visit Yaxchilan and Bonampak, ancient Mayan sites located near the banks of the Usumacinta River. Travel by jeep and lancha (boat) to reach these hidden sites. And you’ll be rewarded with stunning sculptures and fascinating frescoes.

It’s best to take a day tour with one of the companies in Palenque Town. We would recommend Transportadora Turística Tulum . Whilst you can visit both independently, it’s tough logistically and not necessarily cheaper.

The Palenque temple ruins in Mexico.

Day 14-17 | Hit the highlands in San Cristóbal de las Casas

For something completely different, week 3 of our Mexico itinerary takes you away from the sweat-laden jungle and into the cool Mexican highlands. The captivating mountain city of San Cristóbal de las Casas has a really relaxed and inviting vibe. It’s the kind of place you plan to stop for a couple of nights and find you’re still there after a couple of weeks!

After taking a free walking tour, check out the fabulous eating and drinking options along the pedestrianized section of Real de Guadalupe. The next day, hike up to the stunning city viewpoints of Cerro de San Cristóbal or Cerro de Guadalupe. And don’t forget to sample a couple of shots of pox – a potent local liquer.

To top it all off, take a hostel tour to the stunning vistas and waters of wildlife-rich Cañón del Sumidero. It’s one of the best day trips in Mexico.

Related tour: Sumidero National Park Full-Day Trip from San Cristobal

San Cristobal de las Casas Mexico

Day 18-21 | Relax in the playas of Puerto Escondido

From San Cristóbal de las Casas, take the long bus journey ride south down to the stunning Oaxacan coast to chill out and reflect on your amazing Mexico adventure so far. This section of our Mexico itinerary offers lots of different beach options to suit all tastes and budgets.

Try the surf town of Puerto Escondido (‘hidden port’), with it’s choice of four distinct beaches. Love sea swimming or want to learn to surf? Then head to buzzy Playa Carrizalillo. Fancy lounging in a hammock, cold beer in hand, as you gaze across the inviting sea? Then La Punta de Zicaleta is the place for you. Plus, mellow Puerto Escondido has a great variety of accommodation, nightlife, food options and fab ice cream.

Alternatively, head further along the coast to laid back Mazunte. This yoga-lovers paradise has an extremely chilled-out vibe, a lovely walk to rocky cape Punta Cometa and great coffee. Or how about Zipolite? You’ll find a clothing optional beach, good surf and a great bohemian feel. Whatever you get up to, you’ll get to hang out in some of the best beaches in Mexico.

Beach at Puerto Escondido in Mexico.

Day 22-24 | Eat delicious food in Oaxaca

When you’ve had your fill of beach, head on up to Oaxaca, one of the better known tourist spots and still a fabulous city, although a bit tourist-weary these days. In week 4 of our Mexico itinerary, you’ll get to gorge on delicious mole sauces, tempting tlayuda (‘Mexican pizza’), reviving local chocolate, coffee and mezcal.

Oaxaca has it all – culture, shopping, beautiful churches, contemporary art and unrivalled local gastonomy . Oaxaca is also a great place to learn Spanish or take a cooking class. Don’t forget to take a day trip to the stunningly sited ruins at Monte Albán and the spectacular mineral springs and rock formations of Hierve El Agua. Or if that sounds too adventurous, take tour around one of the many local mezcalarias to discover the secrets of now famous Mexican mezcal.

Delicous Oaxaca Mole in Mexico.

Day 25-28 | Mix it up in magical Mexico City

For more of Mexico’s famous culture and cuisine, our Mexico itinerary takes you north to the vibrant capital. For the first couple of days, focus on CDMX’s downtown delights – the Zócalo (main square), Catedral, Templo Mayor and Palacio Nacional.

Next, soak up more culture in one of the world’s top museums, the Museo Nacional de Antropología . Then head out to the famous Frida Kahlo house in the southern district of Coyoacán to find out more about this icon of Mexican art. For foodie delights, spend your evenings in the trendy neighbourhoods of Condesa and Roma. You’ll get a taste of the city’s heaving taco joints, swanky restaurants and hip bars.

Finally, make time for a trip to the majestic pyramids of Teotihuacán, easily visited by bus from the Autobuses del Norte (line 5, metro).

Teotihuacan temple in Mexico

Day 29 | Discover the ‘pueblo mágico’ of Puebla

After fun, food and culture in the capital, strike out to nearby Puebla – a quintessential pueblo mágico (magical town) . Leave the day trippers to return back to Mexico City and stay over at Puebla to soak up the local vibe. Enjoy local dishes and shopping for colourful ceramics. Get a great rate on Puebla’s hotels, hostels and guesthouses and save yourself a night of pricier accommodation in Mexico City.

Day 30-33 | Guanajuato

In the final section of our Mexico itinerary, it’s time to travel north to gorgeous Guanajuato, one of the most underrated destinations in Mexico. Take a ride on the local funicular for unforgettable panoramic views. Stroll down picture perfect lanes to discover manicured Jardin de la Union, stately Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato, and the brilliantly baroque Templo de la Compañía. Get your cultural fill of museums, theatres and art galleries. And spend your nights hanging out at one of the many hip student bars.

Church and city center of Guanajuato in Mexico.

Day 34-36 | Morelia

For the penultimate stop on our Mexico itinerary, head to little visited Morelia – the capital of Michoacan state. Gaze at its fabulous rosy pink cathedral and aqueduct. Marvel at the mega murals of its famous son José María Morelos. And enjoy the relaxed outdoor café culture and local sweets.

For adventures outside of the city, visit historical Pátzcuaro. It’s packed full of beautiful churches and presided over by a stunning lake fringed by Purepecha villages offering fabulous handicrafts. You can also check out the impressive archeological site of Tzintzuntzan. It’s a short drive or shared taxi ride away and offers great views of the lake and surrounding countryside.

Morelia also makes an excellent base for the annual monarch butterfly migration in the nearby sanctuary reserve.

Day 37-39 | Guadalajara

For the final stop of our epic Mexico itinerary, head to Mexico’s second largest city, Guadalajara. Less frenetic than the capital, but just as jam-packed with unique local culture, sights and gastronomy. What’s more, Guadalajara is the birthplace of Mariachi music, as well as the home of Mexico’s most well-known export… Tequila !

Start by checking out the city’s fabulous churches, museums and Orozco murals. Then, head out to the nearby agave fields and distilleries to sample the different varietals of tasty Tequila.

Finish our Undertourists Mexico Itinerary by putting your new-found Tequila knowledge to good use in the awesome and welcoming bars in fabulous Guadalajara.

A perfect way to end your epic adventure and raise a glass or two to magical Mexico.

Related tour: Jose Cuervo Distillery & Tequila Town Tour

Time to travel better

So whether you’re dreaming of shimmering waters, golden beaches, bustling cities or ancient treasures, our Mexico itinerary has got you covered. Explore authentic Mexican destinations, visit off-season and choose local travel, food, tours and accommodation. This is your chance to travel better.

Visit www.undertourists.com/be-an-undertourist to pledge your commitment to travel better.

For more hidden gems in Mexico, check out the below posts:

• Taking the Copper Canyon Train in Mexico
• Guadalupe Canyon: A Hot Spring Oasis in Mexico
• Visiting Teotihuacan, Mexico: Tips for Your Trip
• A Culinary Adventure at Mesones Sacristía Featuring Mole Poblano Sauce
• Sayulita Surfing: A Boho-Chic Surfers Paradise

We are Gio & Soph - top travel bloggers and co-founders of responsible travel website We Are The Undertourists. On a mission to help you travel better. We offer free travel guides, tips, info and inspo on local travel in alternative places. Plus a chance to help Make Travel A Force For Good.

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The Ultimate Backpacking Mexico Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: June 11, 2024

Need a Mexico Itinerary? In this post, I’m sharing with you my ultimate Mexico backpacking route and fun facts about Mexico backpacking.

Having lived and traveled extensively in Mexico for 5 years I’ve put everything I know about my second home into this post. Although all of the information in this post is great for anyone traveling or backpacking in Mexico, it does contain a lot of information specifically for Solo females traveling in Mexico.

Thi post contains lots of general backpacking Mexico information and Mexico itinaries, but I’ve linked to lots of different more detailed blog posts that I have written so you can get even more information about traveling in Mexico. In this guide, you will find a 4 week Mexico itinerary and if you don’t have that much time I’ve also done a 3 week Mexico itinerary, a 2 week Mexico itinerary and even a 1 week Mexico itinerary.

Basically, If you are planning a trip to Mexico here on my blog you are going to find everything you need to backpack Mexico with confidence. And here are some epic Mexican quotes to get you excited about your trip.

Getting Around Mexico

Traveling around Mexico is actually pretty easy. As there isn’t a cross-country train service the two options are, bus or plane . The buses in Mexico are pretty cheap, very reliable, and easy to use. But it is a large country and so the journeys can be long. If you are pushed for time I recommend making some of the longer journeys by plane rather than by bus. I’ve made recommendations below, but just take a look at the map above and you can see the distances.

To help you decide where to go in Mexico, on the 4 week Mexico Itinerary I’ve tried to add in some stops between places so you could quite easily do this whole route by bus if you wanted to. That said you might prefer the comfort of flying. Flights are generally reasonable, so long as you book in advance. 

Quick Tip : I highly recommend booking all of your Mexico transportation with GottoGo . You can search for buses, shuttles, ferries, and Flights on their website. What I love most about them is their customer service. I know these guys personally from my time living in Guatemala and they look after their customers. If anything happens and you get delayed and miss your bus, you can just call them and they are always there to help. If you book through them you will pay a little more than if you book in person at the bus station. But it’s worth it for the ease and security. Click here to search for transportation in Mexico.

The Best Backpack Route Mexico

Ok so here it is, what you have all been waiting for my Mexico travel route to help you figure out where to go in Mexico.

As most people fly into Mexico City I’m going to start there. But you could also do this in reverse and fly into Cancun airport. Likewise, if you are traveling overland you can either cross the border from Belize up to Chetumal in Mexico.

If you do this then I’d start in Bacalar and then work your way around Yucatan before flying from Cancun to Chiapas, then continue the route from there. Or if you cross the border from Guatemala then you will arrive at San Cristobal de las Casas first.

From there you can pick up the route and go either way. 

• Mexico City (CDMX)
• Guadalajara
• Sayulita / Nuevo Vallarta / Riviera Nayarit
• Puerto Vallarta
• San Cristobal de las Casas
• Chichen Itza
• Isla Holbox
• Playa del Carmen
• Isla Mujeres

Yes, there are areas I’ve skipped, but you can easily add them to your Mexico backpacking itinerary if you have more time. For some recommendations of the best places to visit in Mexico check out this blog post .

The same goes for removing things if you have less time. This Mexico backpacking route is suitable for solo female travelers , I’m not advising you to go anywhere unsafe.

This Mexico travel route starts in Mexico City and ends in Cancun and I have it marked in on the map above in this direction. In this, I have included the best tourist places in Mexico as well as some Mexico points of interest that you should try and visit if you can.

Of course, it goes without saying that there are many incredible places to visit that aren’t considered tourist destinations in Mexico. So if at all possible try and leave some time in your schedule to get off the beaten track a little and explore some new places.

Quick Tip:  Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.  Best Mexico Tours :  Click here to check out the top Mexico tours Best Mexico Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in Mexico Best Mexico Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Mexico

Mexico Adventure Travel Musts

If you are looking for some adventure highlights in Mexico there are a few things you should think about doing. One of my favorite fun facts about Mexico that surprises people is the country is fantastic for Scuba Diving . There are so many incredible diving adventures to have in Mexico that I wrote a whole blog post about them that you can read here . 

Another must-do while backpacking in Mexico is exploring some of the ancient ruins. Everyone knows about the world wonder that is Chichen Itza . But the Riviera Maya is teeming with ruins. You have Tulum , Coba , Ek Balam , and some off-the-beaten-track ruins . Then you also have Aztec ruins just outside of Mexico City Teotihuacan to be explored. Check out this hot air balloon tour over Teotihuacan . You can even check out the Calakmul Ruins hidden deep in the jungle too.

Some other Mexico highlights include:

• Taking a cooking class or doing a food tour
• Swimming with Whale sharks
• Diving with Bull Sharks
• Swimming in Cenotes
• Go to a yoga retreat
• Visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere  

QUICK TIP: Book your tours, rental cars, and transfers through my local contacts I’ve been working with Living Dreams Mexico for years and they are who I send all my family and friends to when they visit the Riviera Maya. I really can recommend them enough for private tours and experiences. They have solid 5* reviews on Trip Advisor and Google from almost 4000 reviewers! You can view all their tours here. If you’re looking for private airport transfers and rental cars then Vanessa and Oliver from Turismo Channel are personal friends of mine and I can 100% recommend them to make an inquiry click here and complete the form . Someone will be in touch within 24 hours.

Where To Go In Mexico | Mexico Trip Itineraries

It’s really hard to give you a one-size-fits-all best places to visit in Mexico travel itinerary , but I’m going to try. Of course, the more time you have the more places you can explore. My advice would be if you have more time to stop off at some of the smaller pueblos in between the main ‘tourist’ cities and pueblos. Less is more in Mexico so don’t try and cram in too much. Instead, take your time to get to know a place by staying a little longer.

On this where to go in Mexico trip itinerary, I’ve included the most popular places people visit and linked to more detailed helpful guides if I have them. This is not only a backpack route Mexico but will also suit other types of travelers too as it includes all of the main tourist attractions you will not want to miss while in Mexico. PS read these travel tips for Mexico before you plan anything.

Recommended Mexican Tour Companies These are companies I 100% recommend booking activities within Mexico.   Where Sidewalks End – One of my favorite Mexican based. companies offering boutique travel experiences you won’t find anywhere else.  Turismo Channel – If you are traveling to Playa del Carmen then I recommend booking through my friend Vanessa at Turismo Channel. You can check out their tours by  clicking here  and us code  claire10off  for 10% off group toursYou can also  send her a WhatsApp message  quoting the code to receive the discount.

One Month in Mexico

If you have one month in Mexico, this is the 4 week Mexico itinerary I would recommend you take time to see as much of Mexico as you can.

4 week Mexico itinerary:

Mexico City (3 nights) – 3 nights is the minimum I would personally recommend staying in Mexico City. If you can spare an extra day, then stay for 4. I wrote a full accommodation guide to help you decide where to stay in Mexico City. But wherever you stay, I use Uber to get pretty much everywhere as it is so cheap. Things I’d recommend are visiting Tenochtitlán and going to the Lucha Libre wrestling ! If you want, you can also figure out how to visit Las Grutas de Tolantango from here too!

Guanajuato (1 night) – From Mexico City take a bus to Guanajuato which is about a 6-hour bus ride, or a short flight away. Here you can enjoy the colonial architecture and soak up your first taste of a Mexican pueblo. To make the most of your time here I’d recommend doing this tour from Guanajuato City to San Miguel de Allende .

Guadalajara (1 night) – Take another flight or the bus is just over 3 hours to Guadalajara . I’d suggest exploring Guadalajara and then head down to Lake Chapala , this can also be done as a day trip easily if you don’t want to move around so much. T equila is also a short day trip if you have time. You can take the Tequila express train from Guadalajara and back in a day. 

Chapala (1 night) – From Guadalajara , you can easily take a bus, or rent a car and drive to Lake Chapala. Spend at least 1 day here, more if you can as there are other places around the lake to explore. I love neighboring Ajijic oh and try to visit the Thermal Spa. If you spend the night in Chapala I highly recommend staying in Villa 1927 Arthotel Boutique right on the lake.

Puerto Vallarta (2 nights) – Time to hit the beach! The flight here from Guadalajara / Chapala is 50 minutes and the bus is just under 6 hours, so it’s all going to depend on time. Puerto Vallarta is a popular Mexican coastal town, but not as ‘gringoed’ as the Riviera Maya . It’s also a super nice drive if you want to rent a car . If you drive on the northern road you can hit up Sayulita and anywhere else in Nayarit first. Or if you go on the southern road then go to PV first and head to Nayarit after.

Sayulita : From Puerto Vallarta, if you have time I would also strongly recommend paying a visit to Sayulita. You can read all about how to get to Sayulita here . There are so many things to do in Sayulita you can easily stay here a few days or weeks if you have the time. Number 1 thing to do of course is surfing ! Wondering where to stay in Sayulita , don’t there are many amazing properties, you will be spoilt for choice! You can book a surf trip in Mexico with Thermal

Oaxaca (2 nights) – You are going to need to fly this leg of the journey unless you don’t mind a 20-hour bus ride! But you can’t skip Oaxaca. If for nothing else, this is where you are going to be eating some of the best Mexican food . Plus Oaxaca city is beautiful and full of brightly colored colonial buildings. If you have some more time then head to the beach town of Puerto Escondido for some chilled beach and surf town. I’d strongly recommend trying to fit in at least 2 nights here if you can!

Veracruz (2 nights) – To get here by bus it’s likely to take 6 hours, or you can fly but as there are no direct flights it will take you just as long. Like most places on this list, you are going to want more than 2 days here, but if it’s all you have then it will do. In Veracruz, you will find mountains, volcanoes, Magic Towns , rivers, the ocean , forests, amazing waterfalls , archeological sites , and a lot of good seafood! I have so many friends from here and all they talk about is how amazing the food is!

San Cristobal de las Casas (2 nights) –  Oh how I love San Cris if it didn’t get so cold here during the winter and there was a beach close I’d move there in a flash! Ok so to travel here by bus from Veracruz will take about 8 hours. So if you need to save time then skip Veracruz and just come directly from Oaxaca. But whatever you do, don’t skip San Cris. There is a lot to do here and you could easily spend a week or more here hiking, chasing waterfalls , and shopping for textiles and precious gems at rock bottom prices. 

Palenque (1 night) –  I’ve added in a stop at Palenque to break up the long-ass bus journey from San Cris to Campeche (if you want to take the bus. If you are planning on flying, then just fly direct from Tuxtla airport (just outside San Cris) to Merida and skip Palenque and Campeche. If however, you are interested in learning more about Mayan Culture then I recommend visiting Palenque. It’s about a 7-hour bus ride, or you can fly direct on a small plane here. 

Campeche (1 night) – The bus ride from Palenque to Campeche takes just under 6 hours on a direct bus. Campeche is often forgotten about by visitors to Yucatan. Most people skip over it in favor of Merida. But if you can I’d recommend stopping here for at least a night. UNESCO named it as a model of a colonial baroque city planning. Not only is it a World Heritage Site because of its beautiful colonial architecture, but it also has 17 archaeological sites including Calakmul, which is the largest Mayan city that has been discovered.

If you like this Ultimate Mexico backpacking itinerary and fun facts about Mexico backpacking, save it in your  Stipple trip planner  where you will find destinations, things to do, and accommodation all in one place without juggling between several apps.

Merida (2 nights) – Merida is the capital of Yucatan and it is brimming with culture! It can get very hot in the summer months, so be sure to book accommodations with AC if you can. As well as exploring the city from here you can easily access Chichen Itza . So you could save time by skipping Valladolid and spending a night at Chichen Itza and just see Chichen as a day tour. Then you can head directly to Holbox , or to Playa del Carmen by bus.

Chichen Itza (1 night) – If you have the time I recommend spending the night at Chichen Itza to see the light show ! Then get up early the next morning and explore during the daylight before all of the tour buses turn up! Or if you really want to save time then you can fly to Chichen Itza with Fly Cozumel.

Valladolid (1 night) – This is a place you can skip if you need to make up time. But it’s a nice little pueblo that can help to break up the journey if you have time. Buses run directly here from Merida, and Colectivos run from Chichen Itza . Both are frequent and the journey is short. 

Isla Holbox (2 nights) – To get to Holbox from Merida or Valladolid is a direct bus to Chiquila and from there you will need to take a boat out to the Island. Click here for a full breakdown of how to get to Isla Holbox . Holbox is where I go on vacation. If I need a weekend away from work and need to go somewhere I can completely relax and get offline, I come to Holbox . Be warned you will not get hardly any signal here, and wifi is inconsistent at best. But it’s about as close to paradise as you can get. Want to do some activities while on the island? Take a read of my guide to Holbox here .

Playa del Carmen (2 nights) – Yes, I know I may be biased as I lived here for a few years. But once you arrive in the Riviera Maya, Playa really is the best place to base yourself. It’s cheaper and easier to navigate than Tulum and Cancun and you can walk pretty much everywhere. Plus it’s easy to take colectivos to Cancun , Puerto Morelos , Tulum , and even to Bacalar (although I’d recommend taking the bus). Plus it’s just a short ferry ride to Cozumel .  You can take a bus or colectivo direct from Chiquila to get here. There is so much to see and do 2 days can easily become 2 months… or in my case 3 years haha.

Tulum (1 night) – One night is enough to check out Tulum. Arrive early and visit the Tulum ruins then spend the rest of the day exploring Tulum , or just chill on the beach. If you can spare a few extra days head to Coba ruins and go diving in some Cenotes . If you have time I’d also highly recommend trying to do a tour of Sian Ka’an . It’s not cheap but so worth it! You can either take an ADO bus here from Playa or hop in a colectivo .

Bacalar (2 nights) – It’s going to take you the best part of a day to get here from Tulum , but it will be worth it for the view. Bacalar is beautiful and here you can chill for a couple of nights and reflect on the amazing time you have had exploring Mexico! You can take an ADO bus from Tulum , or a colectivo. Personally, I’d choose the bus for comfort unless you are on a very tight budget. 

Cancun / Isla Mujeres (1 night) – Time to start making your way back to the airport! It will take you most of the day to get from Bacalar to Cancun . You can either stay at a hotel close to the airport or if you have more time skip Cancun and stay in Isla Mujeres… This won’t work if you have a morning flight. but if you have an afternoon or evening flight I’d recommend it so you can check out one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!

3 Week Mexico Itinerary

Only have three weeks in Mexico? No problem. You won’t be able to see the whole of Mexico during this time, but with this itinerary, you can make the most of your 3 weeks in Mexico.

3 week Mexico itinerary

• Mexico City (3 nights)
• Guanajuato / Guadalajara/ Tequila (2 nights)
• Puebla (2 nights)
• Oaxaca (2 nights)
• San Cristobal de las Casas (2 nights)
• Merida (1 night)
• Valladolid / Chichen Itza (1 night)
• Holbox (2 nights)
• Tulum (1 night)
• Bacalar (2 nights)
• Playa del Carmen / Cozumel (3 nights)

2 Week Mexico Itinerary

Got two weeks in Mexico? Then use this Mexico itinerary to help you make the most of your short vacation. I’m not going to lie, 2 weeks in Mexico is nowhere near enough time, but you can see a few of the most popular places and get a feel of the Country. You will need to fly between some places if you want to make the most of your time. But in some places, you can catch a bus and it won’t take longer than half a day.

Mexico 2 week itinerary:

• Merida (2 nights)
• The Riviera Maya (3 nights)

Two Weeks in Yucatan

I’ve created this 2-week road trip itinerary for Yucatan as in reality 2 weeks in Mexico just isn’t a lot of time. Personally, I’d visit half as many places as I’ve added to this list. But if you do only have 2 weeks and want to fit in as much as you can, then this is what I would recommend doing. 

Yucatan 2 week itinerary:

• Holbox (3 nights)
•   Merida (1 night) 
• Campeche (1 night)
• Valladolid (2 nights) to visit Chichen Itza
• Bacalar (2 nights) – or 1 night in Mahuale and 1 in Bacalar
• Playa del Carmen (3 nights) or 2 nights and one night in Cozumel to go diving. Make sure you rent a car in Cozumel and do a lap of the Island!

1 week in Mexico

1 week in Mexico is really not enough time. But if it’s all the time you have, then it’s all the time you have. You can make the most of your time by flying from place to place, otherwise, you will be wasting 3 days on a bus. I’d strongly recommend only packing hand luggage as the budget Mexican airlines like to charge a lot of money for baggage ! 

See my Ultimate Mexico packing list on Amazon !

Although you could easily spend 7 days in any one of these places If you want to cover as much ground as possible in your 7 days in Mexico then with this you will be able to visit 3 very different places in Mexico to give you a real feel for just how diverse and wonderful a country Mexico really is.

1 week Mexico itinerary:

• Mexico City (2 nights)
• Riviera Maya (2 nights)

On this Mexican itinerary, you will fly into Mexico City and then fly out of Cancun . If you are backpacking and coming up from Guatemala then I recommend taking a bus from Guatemala to San Cristobal and then heading to Oaxaca for a night or 2 before traveling to Cancun . 

I’ve not specified where you should visit in the Riviera Maya, because that really is up to you. Personally, I would choose Playa del Carmen and Tulum over Cancun . But then there is also Holbox , Isla Mujeres, and Cozumel to choose from. If you want to explore, choose Playa del Carmen as it’s pretty central. If you just want to crash on a beach for a few days, choose Holbox or Isla Mujeres.

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

The Best Hostels in Mexico

I’ve listed all of the best hostels in Mexico here on this page . However, I do also have more detailed accommodation guides for Mexico City , Cancun , Playa del Carmen , Cozumel , Holbox , and Tulum .

Other Important Things to Consider When Backpacking in Mexico

There are some other common questions people ask about when traveling to Mexico so I’ve tried to answer them as best I can here.

If you are wondering what to pack I have some great packing guides you can read:

The Ultimate Packing List For Mexico

Other than that there isn’t much you really need. Most countries can enter Mexico on a tourist ‘visa’ which is good for 180 days. After 180 days, you will need to leave the country. If you want to return you will need to stay away for at least 3 days before re-entering. If you enter overland then make sure you tell them you will be in Mexico for longer than a week and make sure you pay the fee for the full 1890 day visa. If you don’t they will only give you 7 days to transit. If you fly into Mexico the cost is covered as part of your ticket, so you don’t need to worry.

Quick Tip : View my full Mexico packing guide here including a downloadable checklist. And check out my Mexico Essentials shopping list here .

Mexico Travel Guide Planning

🧳 Any recommendations on what I should pack for Mexico?

Yes! I have created a whole packing guide to Mexico which you can read here and you can also check out my packing list for Mexico on Amazon here .

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m in Mexico?

I strongly recommend using GottoGo . You can book almost all transport in the major Mexican tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.

🎫 Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in Mexico?

First and foremost check out all of the amazing Mexico tours Where Sidewalks End has. They are a small local company and they have some really special experiences.

For everything else I recommend either Viator  or GetYour Guide . 

If you are traveling to Cancun you can use GoCity and save up to 55% of the initial cost of entrance tickets to various museums, tours, and attractions!

If you are traveling to Playa del Carmen then I recommend booking through my friend Vanessa at Turismo Channel. You can check out their tours by clicking here and using the following discount codes for the best prices clairecaroff (car rental), claire10off (for 10% off group tours), claireprivate (for a discount on private tours). You can also send her a WhatsApp message quoting the above codes to receive the discount.

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using Heymondo for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out SafetyWing  digital nomad insurance.

I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance here

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

WayAWay offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise Skyscanner or Expedia are my go-to flight searching platforms.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read here . I personally use GlocalMe  as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using either Airhub or Alosim . Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are Booking.com , Hotels.com , and Expedia  They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅 Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list here . I’m currently traveling with this suitcase and this backpack. 

Solo Female Travel Mexico

Looking for solo travel Mexico information? I personally traveled to Mexico solo and had no issues at all. I’m not denying that there are some safety issues you need to take seriously, however, if you are planning a trip to Mexico alone I have a few guides you can read that will help you get prepared.

Is it safe to travel to Mexico alone? Absolutely! Do you need to be prepared? YES

Fun Facts About Mexico Backpacking: Final Thoughts

And that’s it! My where to go in Mexico ultimate Mexico backpacking route! I hope it has been of use to you as you prepare for backpacking in Mexico. Feel free to reach out if you have any specific questions that I don’t answer on this Mexico blog!

Tuesday 29th of March 2022

Thank you so much for the extremely insightful article! I do have question, would you recommend pre-booking all buses? :)

Moon Palace

Thursday 1st of July 2021

Mexico is wonderful, has a lot to know and gives a great cultural experience to the visitor who dares to travel alone. Besides, Mexicans are very kind and friendly people wherever you go and they will make you feel as if you were in your own country.

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

Mexico Itineraries

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The following Mexico itineraries span the entire length of this incredibly diverse country, from the deserts and jaw-dropping canyons of the north to the grand colonial cities of the centre and the Mayan ruins, beaches and jungles of the south. Given the vast distances involved, you may not be able to cover everything, but even picking a few highlights will give you a deeper insight into Mexico’s natural and historic wonders. If you're considering taking a trip to Mexico, check out our tailor-made trip service for help with the planning and booking from a local expert.

Itinerary tips from Ariadna: your Mexico Travel Expert

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The Magic of the Yucatan and Mexico City

Explore the magic of the Yucatan Peninsula: from colonial towns like Merida to Archaeological sites like Uxmal and Calakmul, close to the Guatemala border, to beaches in Bacalar and Tulum, this itinerary shows you the real Yucatan before heading out to explore Mexico City.

Mexico City, Oaxaca & the Yucatan

Explore Central Mexico with its ever-busy capital Mexico City, visiting Teotihuacan and the famous museums in the city. Further on to Oaxaca City, the gateway to the Archaeological Site Monte Alban. Afterwards, continue to the white beaches of the Yucatan: Cancun and Isla Holbox await.

Fascinating Mexico: From Guanajuato to the Yucatan

Discover Mexico from fascinating San Miguel de Allende over busy Mexico City all the way to the Yucatan Peninsula. This itinerary combines public transportation with domestic flights to ensure you can make the most of discovering fascinating Mexico within two weeks.

Marvelous Mexico: From Yucatan to Mexico City

Your trip starts on the wonderful coast of Yucatan, exploring the beaches and archaeological highlights like Chichen Itza and Tulum. From there on continue the exploration to Palenque and Oaxaca before taking a flight to Mexico City - 3 days in the capital await your discovery.

Mexico's Highlands and Coast

Discover Mexico City's historic highlights and the wonders of sites like Teotihuacan, Campeche and Palenque before you jet off to the Central HIghlands. Discover archeological ruins and traditional tribal villages, then fall for the charms of Mexico's old colonial cities and glitzy Caribbean coast.

Mexico's Mayan Trail

Follow the Mayan Trail around Mexico on this archaeological adventure. Begin your journey with a refreshing taste of sea and salt air in the Yucatán Peninsula on one of Playa del Carmen's gorgeous Caribbean beaches before heading off to discover magical Mayan ruins and glorious colonial towns.

"Planning your adventure in Mexico isn't just about organizing a trip; it's about diving into a vibrant cultural experience," shares our Mexican travel expert , Ariadna. Understanding the significance of a carefully crafted itinerary in Mexico, a country teeming with rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, is crucial. Mexico is a colorful tapestry of age-old traditions, diverse landscapes, and deeply rooted cultural encounters. 

From the historic streets of Mexico City to the pristine beaches of its coastal towns, each region boasts its unique charm and attractions. A personalized itinerary guarantees a thorough introduction to the distinct elements and cultural highlights that make Mexico an incredible destination to explore.

With years of experience and intimate local knowledge, I'm here to guide you through the intricacies of creating your perfect itinerary. Whether you're eager to unravel the mysteries of ancient ruins, indulge in the lively local cuisine, or uncover the hidden natural wonders of both the mainland and coastal areas, a well-planned itinerary ensures a seamless and enriching journey tailored just for you.

Let's collaborate to craft a journey tailored to your preferences and expectations , ensuring your Mexico adventure is truly memorable.

If you are planning your travel to Mexico yourself, use these itineraries created by our travel writers as a starting point for inspiration.

See our itineraries below, or get inspired by duration: 7-days - 10 days - 14 days - 3 weeks

Enjoy the perfect blend of gastronomic delights and cultural treasures on 7-day Mexican journey .

Start in Mexico City and enjoy a traditional welcome dinner on day 1 . Day 2 will begin with a visit to the vibrant Mercado de La Merced, followed by an interactive cooking class, and then you'll travel through the historic center, including the Zocalo and the National Palace. On day 3 , you'll travel to the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan, followed by a sampling of regional cuisine.

On day 4 , you'll fly to Oaxaca , known for its culinary diversity. Here you will enjoy the flavors of the sea and local delicacies. Day 5 is set aside for a culinary master class exploring Oaxacan cuisine, after which you will embark on a cultural tour of the city. On day 6 , you'll travel to the magical city of Tulum , where you'll participate in a wine and tequila tasting followed by a sunset dinner on the beach.

On day 7 , you'll explore the cultural treasures of Tulum and end your trip with a grand feast of Yucatan delicacies. This carefully crafted itinerary combines the culinary and historical wonders of Mexico, and each day focuses on the rich cultural tapestry of this vibrant country.

Tulum, Mayan ruins, Mexico © DC_Aperture/Shutterstock

Experience an extraordinary 10-day journey through Mexico , rich in cultural experiences and natural beauty. Begin your journey in vibrant Mexico City with a warm welcome dinner on day 1 . Day 2 is a deep dive into the city's history and art at places like the Palacio de Bellas Artes. On day 3 , you'll travel to the ancient Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan with its majestic pyramids.

On day 4 , you'll travel to the colonial city of Guanajuato , exploring its colorful streets and underground tunnels. On day 5 , you'll visit the picturesque city of San Miguel de Allende , known for its baroque architecture. On day 6 , fly to Mérida, a city known for its rich Mayan and colonial heritage.

Days 7 and 8 you will spend in the Yucatan Peninsula , discovering ancient Mayan ruins such as Uxmal and Chichen Itza and relaxing in picturesque cenotes. On day 9 , you'll travel to the paradisiacal coastal city of Tulum, where pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife await. End your trip on day 10 with a farewell dinner in Tulum, reflecting on unforgettable experiences and Mexico's diverse cultural scene.

San Miguel De Allende street in Mexico © Shutterstock

Take an exciting 14-day Mexican adventure that seamlessly blends cultural immersion and natural wonders. Begin your journey in Mexico City with a traditional welcome dinner on day one . Immerse yourself in the city's artistic and historical richness on days 2 and 3 , exploring iconic landmarks.

Days 4 and 5 will take you to the ancient and mysterious Teotihuacan, and on day 6 you'll fly to Oaxaca. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Oaxaca with a hands-on cooking class on day 7 , complete with a cultural tour. On day 8 , head to the coastal paradise town of Puerto Escondido .

On days 9-11 , discover the wonders of Chiapas , from the awe-inspiring Sumidero Canyon to picturesque San Cristobal de las Casas. On day 12 , fly to the Yucatán Peninsula, where you can explore the archaeological wonders of Chichen Itza and relax in charming cenotes on days 13 and 14 . Conclude your journey with a visit to Mérida , capturing the essence of Mexico's diverse cultural traditions and breathtaking landscapes that define this extraordinary country.

A balloon vendor in front of the Catedral de San Ildefonso in Merida Mexico

Immerse yourself in an exciting 3-week Mexican trip that seamlessly blends cultural discovery with natural wonders. In the first week , dive into the heart of Mexico, starting in Mexico City and exploring its historic gems, from the Zocalo to Teotihuacan. Week 2 will take you to the enchanting southern region, where San Cristobal de las Casas and Palenque offer a rich tapestry of indigenous cultures and ancient Mayan ruins.

Transition to week 3 begins with a visit to Mérida, which offers colonial charm and access to Uxmal and Celestun. The journey continues through Valladolid , Playa del Carmen and ends in Cancun . Discover colonial cities, pristine beaches and archaeological wonders for a comprehensive exploration of Mexico's diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. This thoughtfully designed 3-week itinerary promises unforgettable and fulfilling experiences in the most diverse corners of this extraordinary country.

Cancun in Mexico © Shutterstock

This amazing Mexico tour will lead you to the heart of Mexico, as you visit Mexico City for a brilliant cooking class, Merida to see the Mayan ruins and plenty more unbelievable places and experiences.

Begin your Mexican journey in Mexico City. Upon arrival, meet your private shuttle for a hassle-free transfer to your accommodation. Begin your exploration of the city with a walking tour of the center, visiting cultural highlights such as the Palace of Arts and Diego Rivera's murals at the National Palace.

Next, the cities of Puebla and Cholula await to explore their historical and architectural wonders, including the 16th-century cathedral and ancient pyramids. Continue your odyssey in Oaxaca, exploring Monte Alban, the petrified waterfalls at Hierve el Agua, and the significant ceremonial center of Mitla.

Fly to Mérida for colonial charm and tours of cultural gems. Explore the archaeological wonders of Uxmal and Cabaj with a knowledgeable local guide. Finish your expedition with a visit to Chichen Itza and a serene night on a Caribbean beach before heading home.

Monte Alban © Shutterstock

This three-week Mexico itinerary focuses on the southern and central parts of the country, traditionally the most popular targets for independent travellers.

Upon arrival at Mexico City International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in the city center. Your tour includes a general city tour and a visit to the pyramids of Teotihuacan. Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Xochimilco floating gardens in Mexico City. Then, fly to Puerto Escondido for a relaxing beach vacation. 

From there, head to the Yucatán Peninsula, visiting Valladolid , conveniently located near major archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza, Tulum, Ec Balam and Coba. Explore the impressive ceremonial centers of Ec Balam and depart for Mérida, stopping at Chichen Itza and Cenote on the way. In Mérida, you'll have a free day or optional excursion to the Celestun Biosphere Reserve. 

Drive to Campeche , then to Xpujil in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve with an optional visit to the Becan archaeological site. Continue to Bacalar to see the stunning Lake of the Seven Colors and attend optional activities. Finally, drive to Playa del Carmen with an optional visit to Tulum, and then finish your trip in Cancun.

Rough Guides tip: If you planning a trip to Cancun, be sure to choose the best place to stay in the city .

Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman near Valladolid © Shutterstock

Mexico is home to exceptionally varied landscapes and ecosystems, but you can get a decent taster in two to three weeks. This tour starts at the US border and works south.

Set off on an exciting adventure through Baja California , starting with the awe-inspiring gray whale migration in Guerrero Negro and San Ignacio. Explore ancient rock art in the Sierra de San Francisco, easily accessible from San Ignacio or Mulege. 

South of Mulege, Bahia Concepcion is home to unspoiled beaches ideal for kayaking or relaxing. Adventurous travelers can take a day trip from La Paz to Espiritu Santo Island, where sea lions, dolphins and whale sharks can be seen.

Ride the spectacular Copper Canyon Railroad from La Paz to Los Mochis and explore the Sierra Tarahumara hiking trails and Raramuri settlements. Head south along the Pacific Ocean to the unspoiled coast of Costalegre or head inland to climb the Nevado de Colima and Popocatepetl volcanoes. End your trip with thrilling rafting, kayaking and canyoning in Jalcomulco, near Xalapa , capturing the essence of Mexico's diverse and colorful natural landscapes.

Playa del Coco beach and the road Transpeninsular, Baja California Mexico.

Spanish Mexico was fuelled by silver, leaving a rich architectural and cultural legacy in the heart of the country. Take at least two weeks to travel this route between Mexico City and Monterrey .

Start in Taxco, the country's silver capital. Admire the colonial, whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets while shopping for jewelry. North of Mexico City is Real del Monte, Hidalgo, a charming mountainous place with a unique Cornish heritage. Next, visit Guanajuato to explore its lively cafes, bars, and intriguing sites such as restored mine shafts and 19th-century mummies.

A short bus ride will take you to San Miguel Allende, a beautifully preserved town teeming with art galleries and craft shops. Nearby is Pozos, a romantic, less developed version of San Miguel known for its extensive abandoned mine workings. In San Luis Potosí, immerse yourself in vibrant city life amid elegant Baroque buildings and museums, including one dedicated to sculptor Federico Silva.

Zacatecas , the capital of northern Bahia state, boasts a rich silver history with attractions such as the restored El Eden mine and exceptional art collections. Finish your journey in Real de Catorza, a mesmerizing semi-tropical town with colonial hotels, ruined mines, and ghostly desert landscapes, en route to Monterrey.

Taxco Guerrero Mexico a colorful town © Shutterstock

Mexico's charms are evident throughout the year , and each season offers a unique experience. The best time to visit is the dry season, which runs from December through April . During this period, the weather is sunny and warm, creating ideal conditions for exploring Mexico's rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes.

Late spring and early summer ( May - June ) and fall ( September - November ) bring pleasant weather, making historic cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara and Oaxaca attractive places to visit. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in outdoor activities amidst the spectacular scenery of the Yucatán Peninsula and Sierra Madre.

Summer ( July and August ) is ideal for beach lovers, especially in coastal harbors such as Cancun and Tulum. While temperatures can be higher inland, coastal areas offer a refreshing vacation.

Mexico's diverse seasons cater to a variety of interests, from cultural exploration to seaside vacations and adventure travel.

Find tons of ideas for your Mexican adventure in our guide to the best vacation spots in Mexico .

The Rough Guides to Mexico and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Mexico

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Mexico

• Visa and entry requirements Mexico
• Crime and personal safety tips Mexico
• Eating and drinking in Mexico
• How to get to Mexico
• Getting around Mexico: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Mexico for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Mexico

Find even more inspiration for Mexico here

written by Ties Lagraauw

updated 29.08.2024

Ties is a true world explorer - whether it be for work or leisure! As Content Manager at RoughGuides, and the owner of Dutch travel platform Reis-Expert.nl , Ties is constantly on the move, always looking for new destinations to discover.

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