Ancient historic towns, pristine sandy beaches, lavish forests, tropical jungles, mangroves, mysterious archeological sites, charming Pueblos Mágicos where time seems to have stopped, and modern, buzzing cities rich in culture and arts: you name it, Mexico has it all! As the new year has just begun, you might be already longing for a vacation or a short getaway and planning your next trip. Thanks to its heterogeneous geography and the variety of ecosystems Mexico is an ideal destination offering great opportunities for fun, no matter you’re your preferred vacation style is. In the articles below we will guide you in an inspirational journey through the whole country, from Los Cabos’ fancy beaches in Baja California Sur to the amazing Guadalajara city in Jalisco, crossing Central Mexico’s pulsating heart, Mexico City, and ending with the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas. Read through our tips and suggestions and discover the best places to visit in Mexico in 2023.
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Morelia, Michoacán
The fascinating capital city of Michoacan state awaits you with the incredible beauty of its perfectly preserved historic center, displaying in its architecture the imposing majesty of the colonial period. The numerous Spanish churches, palaces, and mansions, all built by the conquistadores with pink quarry, nowadays mainly host museums, cultural sites, and dining venues where you can delve into the city’s past and learn about its crucial role in the Mexican’s revolution. Morelia, once called Valladolid, was renamed in the 19th century after Mexican Independence’s hero José María Morelos y Pavón and proudly attests to the country’s fight for freedom. Some of the city’s most highlights include:
Morelia Cathedral: the city’s Baroque masterpiece with its iconic two towers dominates Morelia’s skyline and is worth being seen especially on Saturday nights when a scenic light show with music and fireworks takes place.
The Plaza de Armas: these elegantly landscaped city gardens offer fantastic views of Morelia’s Cathedral and are a great spot for a relaxing walk or a stop amidst the green.
Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve: this extraordinary nature preserve is a sanctuary for monarch butterflies that, every year in October, migrate from Canada and the US to Western Mexico. Located less than 2 hours from Morelia, the preserve is a popular destination for ecotourism and one of the best places to visit in Mexico if you are a nature lover.
Puerto Vallarta
Renowned worldwide for its trendy, luxurious beaches, Puerto Vallarta is certainly one of the best places to visit in Mexico in 2022 that can not miss on your bucket list. This cozy port city is one of Jalisco state’s gems and has enjoyed a progressive and stable growth from a fishermen’s village to the fashionable beach destination it is nowadays. The charm of its historic center commonly referred to as the ‘’Old Town’’ and including the picturesque ‘’Zona Romantica’’, is topped only by the welcoming hospitality of the locals and the abundance of dining and entertainment venues, making it one of the best tourist destinations in the country. If you are planning a vacation in Mexico to indulge in the sun and enjoy lively nightlife, Puerto Vallarta is the place for you! During your stay, make sure you don’t miss:
The Malecon Boardwalk: Puerto Vallarta’s iconic sea promenade is the favorite meeting point in town and hosts several attractions that include galleries, restaurants, crafts shops, and art pieces like the famous Arches and many sea-themed sculptures.
Vallarta Beaches: Puerto Vallarta hosts plenty of beaches to discover, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Mexico if you love the sea and water sports. Make sure you check out Los Muertos Beach if you are looking for hip vibes and entertainment, and head to Las Caletas, Madagascar Beach, or Caballo Beach if you prefer a more exotic, intimate atmosphere.
Vallarta Botanical Gardens: arranged in several sections dedicated to different flora species, Puerto Vallarta’s gardens are set in the middle of a tropical forest and feature a collection of endemic plants and flowers ranging from cacti to palms and oaks.
Guadalajara
Best known for being the originating place of mariachi music and tequila, Jalisco’s capital city Guadalajara is one of the best places to visit in Mexico if you want to immerse in the local culture and history. Probably the second largest city in Mexico, Guadalajara enjoys a subtropical climate, which makes it easy to explore the urban hallmarks. The city boasts many cultural landmarks, art and history museums, and a rich dining scene that attracts visitors all year round. In Guadalajara, you can get to know traditions, music, cuisine, and folklore that represent the authentic Mexican spirit and will find a strategic base to explore Jalisco’s inland. Make sure you pay a visit to:
The Catedral de Guadalajara: the city’s most important cathedral is a remarkable masterpiece of Baroque and Gothic art. It dominates the surrounding square Plaza de Armas and the adjacent Plaza de Los Laureles with its imposing façade.
The Teatro Degollado: the beautiful Neoclassical theatre features an impressive Corinthian colonnade and a marble relief and, in its interior, striking frescos depicting Dante’s Divine Comedy.
The Rotonda de Los Jaliscienses Ilustres: the iconic Guadalajara’s monument is set in a park-like environment and is particularly impressive at night when a scenic light show takes place.
Tequila: this nearby Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) where the famous eponymous spirit was born is definitely worth a visit for its quaint atmosphere and the beautiful surrounding nature.
Veracruz
Also known as Heroica Veracruz, this charming port city in the homonymous state in Southern Mexico is a fantastic vacation spot offering numerous diversions for visitors. Boasting a great dining scene, the Centro Historico hosts many remarkable monuments and sites of interest; the Zocalo (the main square, located in the port area) is full of typical cafés and restaurants, with street musicians and marimba bands playing for the tourists’ entertainment.
Veracruz is probably not listed among the best places to visit in Mexico for scuba diving and other water sports but features nice beaches where you can relax and enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. While you plan your trip to Veracruz make sure you include in your must-see list:
San Juan de Ulúa Fort: situated just 30 minutes by car from Heroica Veracruz, this ancient and imposing fortress dating back to the 16th century is a fascinating destination for a day trip.
Veracruz Malecon: the promenade is a quiet, relaxing spot to walk and unwind while watching street performers or shopping crafted souvenirs by the many quaint shops along the boardwalk.
Veracruz Aquarium: the largest aquarium in Latin America is house to a varied range of sea life species from all over the world including manatees, sea turtles, giant manta rays, and sharks.
Boca del Río: this new suburb in Veracruz located on the coastal side of the Gulf of Mexico, offers fantastic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and many opportunities for sports and water activities.
Los Cabos
The quintessential lavish beach destination for Hollywood stars and celebrities, Los Cabos is among the best places to visit in Mexico if you are looking for an exclusive and posh vacation. Los Cabos encompasses the two municipalities of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo (connected by the Corredor Turistico, a resort corridor) and is particularly popular for its amazing beaches, luxury resorts, shopping venues, and lively nightlife. Cabo San Lucas is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant tourist destinations in Baja California Sur. Make sure you do not miss a visit to El Arco, an iconic granite arch dating back to 30 million years ago said to be where the earth ends, and the Sea of Cortés meets the Pacific Ocean. Other sites of interest include:
Los Cabos Beaches: check out the three adjacent beaches Playa del Amor (Love Beach), Playa del Divorcio (Divorce Beach), and Playa de Los Amantes (Lovers' Beach). Besides the curious names, all three locations feature crystal clear waters, fine golden sand, and breathtaking ocean views.
Puerto San Lucas: the port area and its marina are the areas where most of the action in Cabo takes place. Here you can join whale-watching excursions and boat trips and visit the marina’s luxurious shopping center.
San José del Cabo: thanks to its awesome beaches, quaint historical center, and posh marina with high-class restaurants and golf courses, the municipality is an ideal choice for a weekend trip.
San Luis Potosí
The alluring town of San Luis Potosí is a perfect destination if you want to combine a cultural site-seeing vacation with an adventurous holiday discovering the amazing surrounding natural wonders. The Huasteca Potosina region is one of the best places to visit in Mexico if you love open-air activities and nature: exploring this incredibly varied landscape, which encompasses forests, waterfalls, canyons natural pools, and caves, is even easier when you are based in San Luis Potosí city. The town’s historical center is appointed as World Heritage Site by UNESCO and displays the Baroque architectural grandeur in all its pink quarry buildings and palaces. While visiting do not forget to check out:
San Luis Potosi Museums: the city features numerous art and history museums, among which are the Leonora Carrington Museum, the National Center for the Arts, and the Federico Silva Museum, where you can learn about the state’s history.
The Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Expectación: dominating the central Plaza de Armas, San Luis Potosí's Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the most impressive quarry buildings in town and is definitely worth a visit.
Xilitla: right in the heart of the Huasteca Postosina, you will find the fascinating town of Xilitla, a charming Pueblo Mágico (Meagical Town) featuring an amazing surrealist garden set in the middle of the forest.
Villahermosa
The capital and largest city of the state of Tabasco, Villahermosa is a modern hub that harmoniously combines its contemporary character with its rich indigenous past. At a short distance from the city, you will find the renowned Archaeological Site of Palenque, easily reachable by road. A town surrounded and alimented by water, Villahermosa is probably one of the best places to visit in Mexico for ecotourists and culture and art lovers. Villahermosa also hosts the amazing Parque-Museo La Venta, an open-air museum in a natural jungle setting, where you can admire giant head sculptures that testimony the ancient Olmec culture. Some of Villahermosa’s highlights include:
The Tomás Garrido Canabal Park: this extensive green area is set on the Laguna de las Ilusiones’ (the Illusions Lagoon)shores and is a great spot for relaxing, hiking, and cycling.
Yumka’ Ecological Park: this Center for Interpretation and Coexistence with Nature is only a short drive from Villahermosa’s center and is an amazing way to learn about the endemic species of Tabasco’s ecosystems.
José Narciso Rovirosa Natural History Museum: one of Villahermosa’s most popular cultural attractions, the museum is divided into five sections covering different themes and shows our planet’s evolution from different perspectives.
Mexico City
The country’s pulsating heart, Mexico City is on top of everyone’s bucket list when planning a vacation in Mexico. A modern and cosmopolitan hub, the Mexican capital city boasts a versatile, diverse character which is reflected in the peculiar yet balanced mix of architectural styles. The Aztec splendor of the Templo Mayor creates a harmonious contrast with the Baroque and neo-Classical style of the Catedral Metropolitana and the Palacio National displaying the iconic mural paintings by Diego Rivera. Renowned for its vibrant nightlife and all-year-round events, CDMX is one of the best places to visit in Mexico if you want to combine a cultural vacation with an active urban holiday. Some of CDMX’s most notable attractions are:
The Zócalo and Historical Center: CDMX’s Old Town is home to many notable buildings and palaces including the Palacio de Bellas Artes, the National Symphony Orchestra, and the imposing Postal Palace.
The Paseo de la Reforma: this lively avenue was inspired by the Champs Elysees in Paris and is home to some of the most representative monuments in CDMX, Diana la Cazadora and the mausoleum commemorating the Mexican Independence El Ángel de la Independencia.
The Monument to the Revolution: located not too far from the Paseo de la Reforma, this mausoleum is a tribute to the Mexican Revolution’s heroes and houses the Museum of Revolution.
La Roma y Condesa Districts: these modern and hip areas, very popular among the local young people, are full of galleries, cafes, and dining venues that reinforce their bohemian atmosphere.
Monterrey
Thanks to its pleasant climate, Nuevo León’s capital city is a great destination to travel to all year around. One of the most important and modern hubs in the country, Monterrey offers great opportunities for fun both if you want to discover its urban treasures or to explore the astonishing nature around it. With its dramatic mountain landscape enclosing the Sierra Madre Oriental and the iconic Cerro de la Silla, Monterrey is one of the best places to visit in Mexico for climbers and extreme sports enthusiasts, who will find in the city a comfortable base for exploring the area. During your stay you will want to visit:
The Barrio Antiguo: Monterrey’s Old Town (lit. the Ancient District) will enchant you with its colorful houses and hip atmosphere. Head to the many restaurants and cafes to try some traditional or fusion cuisine specialties.
The Macroplaza: this public space hosts most of Monterrey’s highlights, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Old Municipal Palace, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Museum of Mexican History.
The Parque Fundidora y Paseo Santa Lucía: the park and promenade are some of the most popular entertainment hubs among the locals. The Fundidora Park is crossed by a water channel that you can navigate by boat and features statues, murals, and architectural elements by local artists.
Chihuahua
A city strongly connected to its revolutionary past, Chihuahua is among the most interesting places to visit in Mexico if you want to know more about the country’s fight for independence. Every monument, museum, and building in town bears testimony of Chiuhuaha’s leading role in the Mexican Revolution and tells the stories of the heroes that forged the country. The Historical Center’s palaces display a harmonious blend of Baroque and Neoclassical styles, culminating in the majestic splendor of the Catedral Metropolitana de Chihuahua, one of the city’s main attractions. The cathedral also hosts the Santuario del Cristo de Mapimí and the Museo de Arte Sacra (Museum of Sacred Art) underground. When you stay in Chihuahua make sure you don’t miss:
The Historic Revolution Museum: this is by far Chihuahua city’s most iconic museum, where you can learn about the life and deeds of the celebrated Mexican Revolution’s hero Pancho Villa.
The Nombre de Dios Grottoes: located just 15 minutes away from Chihuahua, these evocative caves have become in time one of the state’s most popular attractions and one of the best places to visit in Mexico if you are fond of exploring exceptional natural landscapes.
The Barranca del Cobre (Copper Canyon): Chihuahua city is also an excellent base to visit the amazing Copper Canyon, easily reachable by train and offering great opportunities for open-air activities and sports.
Monclova
One of the main cities in Coahuila state, Monclova might be not as popular as other destinations in the country but is a great choice if you want to explore the region’s natural wonders. Due to its semi-arid climate, Monclova is probably not among the best places to visit in Mexico during summertime. The city though enjoys warm temperatures even in winter when you can make the most of the city’s attractions without the suffocating heat of the hot season. Located not too far from Coahuila’s other main centers, Saltillo and Torreon, Monclova is also a strategic base to discover the astounding Pueblo Mágico of Cuatro Ciénegas and the surrounding nature preserve. Some of the attractions in and near Monclova include:
The Parque Xochipilli: this beautiful green area in Monclova is ideal for strolling or taking a break from your city tour. This oasis set in the middle of the desert is house to a wide variety of fauna and flora species and offers many chances for sports and activities.
The Museo Pape: Monclova’s modern art museum feature several installations and exhibitions and hosts a permanent collection of artworks by many famous local artists.
Las Dunas de Yeso (The Gypsum Dunes): this unique sand formation in the Cuatro Ciénegas national park has become one of Coahuila’s most popular attractions and can be easily reached by Monclova, Saltillo, and Torreon.
Tuxtla Gutiérrez
By far the most popular tourist destination in Chiapas, the capital city Tuxtla Gutiérrez offers a unique combination of traditions, modernity, and astonishing nature. Surrounded by the jungle and rich in lavish parks and gardens, Tuxtla Gutiérrez is also an advantageous gateway to explore the Sumidero Canyon, a scenic natural formation crossed by the Grijalva River. This natural area is considered one of the best places to visit in Mexico for both climbers and outdoor activities lovers. Tuxtla’s architecture reflects the city’s rich past, exhibiting amazing examples of Baroque and colonial art such as the amazing San Marcos Cathedral. Other gems to discover during your stay in Tuxtla include:
Parque de la Marimba and Marimba Museum: in this popular park dedicated to the typical music representing Chiapas you can gather with the locals to dance to the beats of marimba, while in the adjoining museum you can learn about the origins of this music genre.
Museums: Tuxtla boasts several interesting museums covering a wide range of themes. Make sure you visit the Museo Regional de Antropología e Historia (“Regional Museum of Anthropology and History”), the Museo de Paleontología Eliseos Palacios, and the the Museo Jardín Botánico Faustino Miranda, all located in the Calzada de las Personas Ilustres.
Cañón Río La Venta (La Venta River Canyon): located not too far from Tuxtla, this dramatic natural landscape is one of the best places to visit in Mexico for extreme sports lovers and for ecotourists, offering plenty of opportunities for rafting, rappelling and hiking.
What are the Mexican Pueblos Mágicos?
Meaning ''Magic Towns'' in English, Mexico's Pueblos Mágicos are towns and villages granted the ''magical'' status by the Mexican government because of their peculiar mystical allure, architectural beauty, historical value, or natural wonders. These destinations, which played a crucial role in shaping Mexico's development, bear deep symbolic meaning and legends and will connect you with the country's roots and traditions. Mexico currently counts 132 Pueblos Mágicos, including popular destinations such as Tequila or Palenque and incredible hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Still not sure where to go? Check out our top destinations and discover more on the best places to visit in Mexico this year!