Dreaming of your future trips? Where to visit in Mexico. There's nothing wrong with dreaming of your future vacation - in fact, we think it's important to have something to wait for. Planning an adventure can be a lot of fun and at the end of the day, the more research you do, the more likely you are to miss any of the highlights. The best restaurants? Check.
Unmissable UNESCO sites? I got it. Today we highlight one of our favorite destinations in Latin America - Mexico. Between good weather, sunny beaches, ancient history and unique experiences, Mexico is a country that attracts almost all types of travelers. You could spend a week on the beach while partying all night in Playa del Carmen, or you could get lost wandering through the remains of the Mayan ruins before diving into a magnificent cenote. We have put together some of the best places you should visit during your stay in Mexico.
Mexico It goes without saying that the lively capital of Mexico is a must on your itinerary. Overflowing with beautiful pre-Hispanic architecture and home to a variety of museums, markets, galleries and restaurants, this is the perfect place to spend a few days learning about Mexican culture. Highlights include the impressive Catedral Y Sagrario Metropolitano, the Plaza de la Constitution and the National Palace. Spend time strolling through the historic center and savor some pastries at one of the many bakeries in the area. If you can't wait to discover some of Mexico's high-end restaurants, head to Condesa where you'll find yourself in the heart of one of the city's hottest neighborhoods. The tree-lined streets and shops reflect what you might find in a trendy European neighborhood.
Teotihuacan The Teotihuacan site is a short drive from Mexico City and a great day trip out of the city. The ancient Meso-American site stretches for about 4 km and walking around makes you appreciate its colossal scale that it would have possessed at the time. It is believed to have been built around 300 BC and now consists of pyramids, temples, palaces and a Ciudadela. The most notable buildings are the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Moon, two large pyramids. which are among the most impressive outside of Egypt.
Puebla This colorful colonial city is home to magnificent churches, a spectacular backdrop of volcanoes and peaks, and a magnificent historic center. One of the oldest cities in Mexico, Puebla means "city of angels" and was founded in 1531. Due to its rich history and impeccably preserved buildings, the historic center is now a World Heritage Site. UNESCO. Between the vibrant colorful architecture found on every street corner and the ever-growing selection of restaurants and cafes, Puebla has gained popularity over the years with people after a cultural vacation far from the crowds found in Mexico City.
Oaxaca Continuing south on our route to Mexico, we arrive at the city of Oaxaca - known for its incredible street food and quickly becoming the gastronomic center of Mexico. One of the highlights is the Templo de Santo Domingo, a 16th century church with a beautiful Baroque facade - perfect for photography enthusiasts. We also recommend that you take the time to get lost in the cobbled streets where some of Oaxaca's best independent galleries are located, as well as quaint cafes and restaurants. Don't forget to try tlayudas, crispy tortillas garnished with beans, cheese and avocado, as well as tamales, tacos and of course tequila.
Just outside the city you will also find the spectacular temples of Monte Alban, a pre-Columbian archaeological site which is the only pyramid in Mexico 400 meters away. Explore the tunnels, palaces, tombs and pyramids and admire the magnificent glyphs and sculptures.
Merida If you have time to travel by land from Oaxaca to Yucatan province, there are wonderful places to see, including Palenque. However, if you are shorter on time, you can take a flight from Oaxaca to Merida - capital of Yucatan province. The "white city" is a charming mix of churches and squares, with the same beautiful buildings found elsewhere in Mexico. Stroll among the brightly painted houses of the city center or get lost in the famous museum of modern art, which regularly exhibits local artists highlighting the rich culture and heritage of Mexico. Visit the largest market, Lucas de Galvez, where you can taste typical dishes of the region as well as pick up beautiful handicrafts. And if you can't get enough of the ancient ruins, visit Uxmal, a Mayan ruin listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its beautiful stone carvings.
Chichen Itza Traveling south-east, you can then stop at one of Mexico's most popular attractions - Chichen Itza. The impressive Mayan site was elected as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and was built between the 7th and 10th century AD, serving as a pilgrimage center for the Mayans for over 1000 years. The most famous attraction of the archaeological site is the Kukulkan temple, which is dedicated to the feathered god, the god Kukulkan. Standing about 30 meters high with a series of nine terraces, the pyramid was built with such precision that the shadow of a snake descends the steps during the equinox. In addition to the main temple, you can explore the Grand Ballcourt, the Warriors Temple and the Observatory, as well as other small temples and ruins. It is worth spending a good time exploring the site and hiring a guide if you want to discover the history behind the ruins.
Playa del Carmen, Isla Cozumel and Tulum It's beach time. We head east to the festive town of Playa del Carmen. Not to everyone's taste, Playa del Carmen has an incredible nightlife scene and some of the best beach bars in the area. Slightly quieter than Cancun, the resort has white sandy beaches and seductive bright blue water, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water-based excursions. With chic cafes and bars on the beach, it's another world of ancient ruins you've just left. If the scene in Playa del Carmen doesn't suit you, you can venture across the sea to the nearby island of Isla Cozumel. It is considered one of the best diving and snorkeling destinations in the region due to the crystal clear water and the abundance of marine animals. It has a more laid back atmosphere and it's easier to find a quieter beach to relax in, perfect for those who like it a little more peaceful. And if you don't have enough of the great Mexican beaches and delicious food, keep traveling south to Tulum. This seaside town has grown considerably in popularity over the years due to its trendy dining scene, Instagram-worthy spots and pristine beaches.
And finally, the cenotes Although it is not a specific place, we cannot talk about the best places to visit in Mexico without highlighting the cenotes. A "cenote" is a natural basin that results from a collapse of the limestone rock that once surrounded it. They are scattered throughout Mexico, many being close to Merida, Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Often hidden swimming spots have fresh water that is filtered by the soil around it, and the water is often so clear that you can see small fish darting underneath. Visiting a cenote is the perfect way to unwind and relax for an afternoon while enjoying the natural surroundings.
