Travel advice for Mexico
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Mexico
- North America
- Mexico
Book your individual trip, stress-free with local travel experts
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.
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9 days / from1670 USD
Mayan Heritage Tour in Yucatan
Yucatán is calling you, and this trip is the way to do it; go into the jungle and know it like no one else has ever known it; enjoy incredible food, beautiful sunsets, and the warmth of its communities that will do everything possible to offer you a dream experience. Are you ready?
view tour ⤍11 days / from2415 USD
Culture & Jungle in Chiapas
Get ready for an adventure through Chiapas with hosts who are prepared to welcome you and discover the natural beauty of canyons, waterfalls, lakes, and rivers! The magnificent archaeological sites will amaze you as well as the charming towns.
view tour ⤍7 days / from925 USD
Authentic and unique Mexico City
Mexico City seems to have it all - over 50 museums, a beautiful historic city center, an extensive city park with a majestic castle, upscale neighborhoods like La Condesa or La Roma, bohemian Coyoacan and mouth-watering cuisine. This trip shows you the best of this mega city.
view tour ⤍10 days / from1695 USD
Oaxacan Coast Adventure
Adventure awaits you on this trip to the Oaxacan coast, a place as spectacular as the activities you will do. From a boat trip to the beautiful bays of Huatulco to a warm horseback ride on the seashore in Puerto Escondido. Enjoy freedom of traveling with your own rental car.
view tour ⤍9 days / from1475 USD
Taste of Mexico
Discover the most unique places in Mexico City before heading out to Puebla and Oaxaca, tasting the best Mexico has to offer: mole poblano, chocolate, a corn workshop - this is a hands-on tour, showing the variety Mexico has to offer, both in food and culture wise.
view tour ⤍8 days / from2230 USD
Small Group Tour: Yucatán Off the Beaten Path
This is a trip immersed in Maya culture, considering visits to essential places, accommodations in different Maya communities, and cultural and outdoor sports activities. Trip starts February 1st & April 29, 2024 - prefer to do this trip in private? Send us a request for individual pricing.
view tour ⤍9 days / from3035 USD
Mayan Heritage on the Yucatan Peninsula
Embark on a Yucatan self-drive adventure, blending renowned treasures like Tulum and Chichen Itza with hidden gems. Wander off the beaten track to discover local communities, engaging in community-based experiences. Delve into Mayan culture, sample authentic cuisine, and explore the region.
view tour ⤍7 days / from1800 USD
Immersive Mexico City
Discover the vibrant heart of Mexico City in 7 unforgettable days. A stroll through historic downtown, explore colorful markets, and savor delicious street food. Day trips to Teotihuacan's ancient pyramids and Chapultepec Park's museums offer cultural enrichment.
view tour ⤍10 days / from3275 USD
Flavours of Central Mexico
Start in Mexico City, exploring its rich history and vibrant markets. Journey to Cholula to uncover ancient pyramids and partake in cooking classes. Conclude in Oaxaca, where you'll dive deep into local markets and culinary traditions, forging unforgettable memories.
view tour ⤍12 days / from3140 USD
Authentic Mexico City & Yucatan Peninsula
Start your trip in fascinating Mexico City - special views guaranteed during your hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan. Continue to the Yucatan Peninsula with Merida, Valladolid, the famous Chichen Itza site and then to the dreamy beaches of Puerto Morelos. This trip has it all.
view tour ⤍"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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Mexico
written by Ties Lagraauw
updated 22.01.2024
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.