Things to Do in Mexico: 179 Places Beyond the Resorts
Mexico is a big country, with 31 states plus Mexico City, and it has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country in the Americas. That's why the answer to what to do in Mexico looks completely different in the Yucatán than it does in Oaxaca, Chiapas or Baja California. This hub brings together 179 places across 26 states and the capital. There are ancient sites from the Templo Mayor to the Great Pyramid of Cholula, the largest pyramid in the world by volume, plus cenotes you can swim in, weaving and pottery villages, and a surrealist jungle garden at Xilitla. Of those places, 53 are free, and 20 are food stops, from city markets to a wine valley in Baja. Mexico City alone has 80 entries, so it gets its own page. Start with the map to see what's near your base, then open each region for the details.
Last checked: October 21, 2026 for spots that show a date. Other visit lengths are typical estimates, not a live hours listing. Check prices and hours before you go.
Best Places to Visit in Mexico
Mexico City is the first stop. The other regions are on this page until their city pages exist.
- Mexico City80 places
- Oaxaca10 places
- Yucatán and Quintana Roo20 places
- Chiapas9 places
- Baja California11 places
- Guanajuato and the Bajío15 places
- Jalisco and the Pacific coast12 places
- Central Mexico15 places
- The North7 places
Things to do by region
Mexico City
- Isla de las Muñecas Things to Do
- Museo Anahuacalli Things to Do
- Casa Luis Barragán Things to Do
- Museo de Arte Popular Things to Do
- Cárcamo de Dolores Things to Do
- Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso Things to Do
- Museo Mural Diego Rivera Things to Do
- Museo Casa de León Trotsky Things to Do
- Arena México Things to Do
- Frontón México Things to Do
- Monumento a la Revolución Things to Do
- MUAC Things to Do
- Museo Nacional de San Carlos Things to Do
- Museo Franz Mayer Things to Do
- Laboratorio Arte Alameda Things to Do
- Museo Dolores Olmedo Things to Do
- Casa Gilardi Things to Do
- Palacio de Minería Things to Do
- Museo Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul) Things to Do
- Museo del Juguete Antiguo México Things to Do
- Templo Mayor Things to Do
- National Museum of Anthropology Things to Do
- Museo del Pulque y las Pulquerías Things to Do
- MODO Museo del Objeto Things to Do
- Museo de la Caricatura Things to Do
- Museo de Geología de la UNAM Things to Do
- Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo Things to Do
- Museo de El Carmen Things to Do
- Museo Nacional de las Intervenciones Things to Do
- Museo Archivo de la Fotografía Things to Do
Oaxaca
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Photo: Adrián Cerón · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Hierve el Agua
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · San Lorenzo Albarradas
Mineral-rich springs dripping over a cliff for thousands of years formed what look like frozen waterfalls. On top, natural infinity pools look out over the valley. Small entry fee; go early before tour buses arrive.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: Early morning, dry season
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Photo: User:Gengiskanhg · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Mitla
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · San Pablo Villa de Mitla
A Zapotec religious site famous for its stone mosaics in geometric patterns, unlike anything else in Mexico. A colonial church was built right on top. Small fee, and try mezcal in the town.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: México en Fotos · CC BY-SA 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Yagul
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Tlacolula
A quiet hilltop Zapotec site in the Tlacolula valley with one of the biggest ball courts in Oaxaca, a maze-like palace and a fortress on the cliff above. You'll often have it almost to yourself. Small fee, and climb up to the fortress for the valley view.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: User:Gengiskanhg · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Teotitlán del Valle
Things to Do · Free · Teotitlán del Valle
A Zapotec village famous for rugs woven on wooden looms and colored with natural dyes like cochineal bugs. Families welcome you into their workshops. Free to visit, and buying direct supports weavers.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: AlejandroLinaresGarcia · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) San Bartolo Coyotepec
Things to Do · Free · San Bartolo Coyotepec
A village just south of Oaxaca City famous for barro negro, black pottery polished by hand with quartz stones until it shines like metal. Many family workshops will show you how it's made. Free to visit, and buy straight from the potters.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: User:Fsamuels · Public domain · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Mazunte
Things to Do · Free · Mazunte
A laid-back beach village on the Oaxaca coast with a sea turtle center and a famous sunset walk out to Punta Cometa. It's full of yoga studios and little cafes. Cheap and relaxed.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Oaxaca de Juárez
A garden of native Oaxacan plants, from giant cactus to agave, laid out behind the Santo Domingo church by artist Francisco Toledo. Visits are by guided tour only. Check tour times at the gate.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
Yucatán and Quintana Roo
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Photo: Dmadeo · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Cenote Ik Kil
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Pisté
A deep round cenote with vines hanging down into the water, close to Chichén Itzá. Swimming here feels magical. Go early before the tour buses arrive.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Photo by Dorothy Beals and Sarah Martin Original uploader was Elijahmeeks at en.wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Ek' Balam
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Temozón
Mayan ruins north of Valladolid where you can still climb the tall main pyramid, with incredible carved stucco figures with wings near the top. There's a cenote nearby to cool off. Small fee.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Joeldesalvatierra · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Mayapán
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Telchaquillo
The last great Mayan capital, with a round observatory and a pyramid that look like a smaller Chichén Itzá, but with almost nobody around. You can climb some of the buildings. Small fee.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Wasquewhat · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Las Coloradas
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Río Lagartos
Bright pink salt ponds on the north Yucatán coast, colored by tiny organisms in the salty water. Swimming isn't allowed. Small fee for a guided walk.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Sunny middle of the day, dry season
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Photo: lostpylon · CC BY-SA 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Grutas de Loltún
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Oxkutzcab
One of the biggest cave systems in Yucatán, used by people for thousands of years, with ancient handprints, carvings and the bones of Ice Age animals found inside. Huge sunlit chambers open up under the jungle. Visits are with a guide, and it's an easy add-on to the Puuc route.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: AlejandroLinaresGarcia · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Celestún
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Celestún
A fishing village known for thousands of pink flamingos feeding in the mangroves. Take a boat tour from the beach. Tours cost per boat, so share with others.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: November-March for the biggest flamingo flocks
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Cenote Suytun
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Valladolid
A cave cenote with a round stone platform at the center of the pool, lit by a single beam of sunlight at midday. It's an Instagram favorite. Small fee.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Hacienda Yaxcopoil
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Yaxcopoil
An old henequen hacienda frozen in time, with its machinery, rooms and Moorish gateway left as they were. It's a peek into Yucatán's green gold boom. Small fee.
- Typical visit: 30 min-1 hour
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Dag Lindgren · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Cenote Dos Ojos
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Tulum
Two neighboring sinkholes, the two eyes, linked by one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world. Snorkelers float over glowing blue light while divers vanish into the caverns. Entry fee, and bring your own mask to save on rentals.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Bruno Rijsman · CC BY-SA 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Isla Holbox
Things to Do · Free · Holbox
A car-free island off the tip of the Yucatán with sandy streets, golf carts, street murals and flamingos in the shallows. From June to September you can swim with whale sharks, and some nights the water glows with bioluminescence. The ferry from Chiquilá is cheap.
- Typical visit: 2-3 days
- Typical best time: June-September for whale sharks; November-April for dry weather
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Photo: Elelicht · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Cobá
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Cobá
Mayan ruins spread out in the jungle, connected by ancient white roads called sacbeob, with Nohoch Mul, one of the tallest pyramids on the peninsula. Rent a bike or a pedicab to get between groups. Small fee, and go early for shade and quiet.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Guillermo Isaac Huesca Solis · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Muyil
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Muyil
A small, quiet Mayan site inside the Sian Ka'an reserve, with a jungle boardwalk leading to a lagoon. Boat tours take you through an ancient Maya canal where you float with the current in a life jacket. Small fee plus the boat tour.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Tschips · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Sian Ka'an
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Tulum
A huge UNESCO biosphere reserve of lagoons, mangroves, reefs and empty beaches just south of Tulum. Boat tours spot dolphins, turtles, manatees and birds. Go with a local cooperative from Punta Allen or Muyil.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Andy Blackledge from Scottsdale, AZ, USA · CC BY 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) MUSA Underwater Museum
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Cancún
Hundreds of life-size human sculptures sunk off Cancún and Isla Mujeres, slowly turning into living coral reefs. Some are shallow enough to see while snorkeling. You need a tour, and go on a calm morning for clear water.
- Typical visit: 30 min-1 hour
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Peter Maas 16:07, 3 December 2006 (UTC) · CC BY-SA 2.5 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Isla Contoy
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Isla Mujeres
A protected island north of Isla Mujeres that's home to tens of thousands of seabirds, with only a limited number of visitors allowed each day. Tours include snorkeling on the way and lunch on the beach. Book with a licensed operator.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Laguna de Bacalar
Things to Do · Free · Bacalar
A long freshwater lagoon known as the Lake of Seven Colors for its stripes of blue and turquoise. Swim at the Cenote Azul or the rapids, and paddle a kayak at sunrise. Free at public docks.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Gran Cenote
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Tulum
A semi-open cenote near Tulum with crystal-clear water, cave tunnels, little turtles and stalactites. It's great for snorkeling. Entry fee, and arrive at opening to beat the crowds.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Pavel Kirillov from St.Petersburg, Russia · CC BY-SA 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Calakmul
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Calakmul
A huge Mayan city hidden deep in the Campeche jungle, with pyramids you can still climb above the canopy. Howler monkeys and toucans are everywhere. It's very remote, so stay nearby in Xpujil.
- Typical visit: Full day
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); start at opening
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Edzná
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Campeche
A Mayan city near Campeche with a five-story pyramid temple and a big plaza, and few visitors. The light show at night is fun. Small fee.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
Chiapas
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Photo: Tjeerd Wiersma from Amsterdam, The Netherlands · CC BY 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Cañón del Sumidero
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Chiapa de Corzo
Cliffs over 1,000 meters tall rise straight out of the river in this canyon near Tuxtla Gutiérrez. Boat tours run from Chiapa de Corzo and pass crocodiles, monkeys and a waterfall shaped like a Christmas tree. Tours are cheap.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: diego_cue · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) San Juan Chamula
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · San Juan Chamula
A Tzotzil Maya village near San Cristóbal whose church has no pews, just pine needles on the floor, candles and healers performing rituals with eggs and Coca-Cola. Photos inside are strictly banned. Small entry fee.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Wasquewhat · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Misol-Ha
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Salto de Agua
A 35-meter waterfall in the Chiapas jungle with a trail that goes right behind the curtain of water into a cave. It's a quick stop on the road to Palenque. Small community fee.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Jacob Rus · CC BY-SA 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Yaxchilán
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Ocosingo
Mayan ruins on a bend of the Usumacinta River, reachable only by boat, with howler monkeys roaring in the trees. Bring a flashlight for the dark passages of the labyrinth building. Fee plus the boat ride.
- Typical visit: Full day
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early
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Photo: Oleksii0 · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Bonampak
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Ocosingo
A small Mayan site famous for brightly painted murals of battles, ceremonies and music that survived over 1,200 years. Get there with the Lacandon community's transport. Small fee.
- Typical visit: Full day
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season)
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Photo: No machine-readable author provided. Agguizar~commonswiki assumed (based on copyright claims). · Public domain · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Lagos de Montebello
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · La Trinitaria
A chain of more than 50 lakes in the pine forests near the Guatemala border, each a different shade of blue, green or turquoise. Local kids rent out wooden rafts and kayaks on the shores. Small park fee, and Tziscao makes a good overnight base.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Dge · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Toniná
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Ocosingo
A huge Mayan city stacked in terraces up a hillside near Ocosingo, with one of the tallest pyramid complexes in the Maya world. Inside the lower level is a pitch-dark maze you can walk through. Small fee, and you'll often have it nearly to yourself.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Cascadas de Agua Azul
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Tumbalá
A long staircase of waterfalls and pools in the Chiapas jungle, turning milky turquoise thanks to minerals in the water. The color is brightest in the dry season, roughly March to June. Small community fee, and swim only in the marked calm spots.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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El Chiflón
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Tzimol
A string of waterfalls on the San Vicente River ending in the 120-meter Velo de Novia, the bride's veil. A trail climbs past turquoise pools you can swim in, and there's a zip line over the river. Small fee, and go early before it gets hot.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
Baja California
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Photo: Bubus · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) La Bufadora
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Ensenada
One of the biggest marine blowholes in North America, where waves get forced into a sea cave and blast spray high into the air with a roar. The walkway to it is lined with stalls selling churros and crafts. Small parking fee, and the show is best at high tide.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: October-April; avoid summer heat and go early or late in the day
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Photo: Thelmadatter · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) El Arco
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Cabo San Lucas
The famous granite arch at Land's End, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific. You can only reach it by water, so hop on a water taxi from the marina. Ask to stop at Lover's Beach on the way.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Jmrodri2 · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Isla Espíritu Santo
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · La Paz
A protected desert island near La Paz with pink cliffs, turquoise coves and a sea lion colony you can snorkel with. Day tours leave from the La Paz malecón. Tours cost money, plus a small park fee.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Netzai · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Sierra de San Francisco Cave Paintings
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · San Ignacio
Huge rock paintings of people and animals in remote canyons of central Baja, made thousands of years ago. You need a licensed local guide and often a mule trek. Book through San Ignacio.
- Typical visit: 2-3 days (guided)
- Typical best time: October-April (cooler months)
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Photo: Joe McKenna from San Diego, California · CC BY 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Laguna San Ignacio
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · San Ignacio
Every winter gray whales come to this lagoon to give birth, and some swim right up to the boats to be touched. It's one of the most amazing wildlife experiences in the world. Tours run January to April.
- Typical visit: Full day
- Typical best time: January-April (gray whale season)
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Photo: John Markos O'Neill from San Francisco, California · CC BY-SA 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Cabo Pulmo
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Cabo Pulmo
A tiny village with the oldest coral reef in the Sea of Cortez, protected since 1995 and now teeming with fish again. Snorkel with huge schools of jacks and sea lions. Tours cost money.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
Guanajuato and the Bajío
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Photo: AlejandroLinaresGarcia · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Museo de las Momias
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Guanajuato
Over 100 naturally mummified bodies, dug up from Guanajuato's city cemetery when families couldn't pay a burial tax, are displayed in glass cases with their clothes and expressions intact. It's creepy, fascinating and a huge part of local culture. Small fee, and skip it if you're squeamish.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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El Charco del Ingenio
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · San Miguel de Allende
A botanical garden and nature reserve on the edge of San Miguel de Allende, packed with cacti and succulents, plus a canyon, a reservoir and old aqueduct ruins. It's peaceful and full of birds. Small fee, and wear sun protection.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: Erik Reinecke · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Cañada de la Virgen
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · San Miguel de Allende
A pre-Hispanic ceremonial site on a hilltop near San Miguel de Allende, with pyramids aligned to the sky. You ride a shuttle in and walk the old ceremonial road with a guide. Guided tours only, and they're worth it.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: MyName (Bernardo Bolaños) · CC BY 2.5 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Las Pozas
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Xilitla
An English poet, Edward James, spent decades building a surreal concrete garden in the jungle at Xilitla, with stairs to nowhere, giant flower columns and pools under waterfalls. It feels like walking into a dream. Small fee, and go early on a weekday.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Sótano de las Golondrinas
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Aquismón
One of the deepest open-air cave shafts in the world, over 370 meters deep. At dawn thousands of swifts spiral up out of it, and at dusk they dive back in like falling arrows. Small fee, and lie down at the edge to peek in safely.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: Dawn (birds fly out) or dusk (birds return)
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Photo: Rafael Saldaña · CC BY 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Real de Catorce
Things to Do · Free · Real de Catorce
A silver-mining town high in the desert of San Luis Potosí that you reach through a narrow 2.3 km tunnel. Half-abandoned stone buildings and Huichol pilgrims make it feel mystical. Free to wander, and ride a Willys jeep to the ghost town above.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Arq. Carlos G. Calzada · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Peña de Bernal
Things to Do · Free · Bernal
One of the tallest monoliths on Earth, a giant rock towering over the cute town of Bernal in Querétaro. Hike up partway for the views, and try gorditas in town. Free, and combine it with Querétaro's wine and cheese route.
- Typical visit: 30 min-1 hour
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Mina El Edén
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Zacatecas
A silver mine dug into a hill right in Zacatecas, where you ride a small train deep into the tunnels and walk past shafts and underground lakes. Small fee, and tours run daily.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Cascada de Tamul
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Aquismón
A 105-meter waterfall in the Huasteca Potosina, reached by paddling a wooden canoe upriver through a turquoise canyon. It's a workout but worth it. Fee, plus the canoe guide.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: Dry season (roughly November-May) for turquoise water
Jalisco and the Pacific coast
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Photo: Esteban Tucci · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Guachimontones
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Teuchitlán
Unlike the square pyramids elsewhere in Mexico, these are stepped round pyramids built around circular plazas, made by the Teuchitlán culture about 2,000 years ago. It's an easy day trip from Guadalajara. Small fee.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: ProtoplasmaKid · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Hospicio Cabañas
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Guadalajara
A huge 19th-century orphanage in Guadalajara whose chapel dome holds José Clemente Orozco's fiery mural The Man of Fire. Lie on the benches to look up. Small fee, and it's a UNESCO site.
- Typical visit: 30 min-1 hour
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Unknown author · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Islas Marietas
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Punta de Mita
Protected volcanic islands off Punta de Mita with a famous hidden beach inside a crater you swim into through a tunnel. Visits are limited, so book a licensed tour ahead. Bring reef-safe sunscreen.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: tceagle · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Yelapa
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Cabo Corrientes
A beach village south of Puerto Vallarta with no road in, so you arrive by boat. Hike to the waterfall and try the famous pie sold on the beach. Water taxis are cheap.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: YdelaT · CC0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Tequila
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Tequila
The town that gave tequila its name, surrounded by blue agave fields that are a UNESCO site. Tour a distillery and try it straight from the barrel. Cheap and fun.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Thelmadatter · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Grutas de Cacahuamilpa
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Pilcaya
One of the largest cave systems in Mexico, with chambers so huge they've hosted concerts. A paved trail leads past giant stalactites. Small fee, and you can swim in the underground rivers below with a guide.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Solo se puede ser libre Cuándo no se tiene nada que perder from Mexico D.F., México · CC BY 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Ocampo
Every winter, millions of monarch butterflies from Canada and the US cover the fir trees in the mountains of Michoacán, turning them orange. It's one of nature's great shows. Small fee, and go between December and March.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: Mid-November to March, sunny late mornings
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Photo: Karla Yannín Alcázar Quintero (photographer) · CC BY 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Volcán Parícutin
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Angahuan
A volcano that burst out of a farmer's cornfield in 1943 and buried a village, leaving only the church tower sticking out of the lava. Ride a horse there from Angahuan. Small fee for guides.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: Dmetzger at English Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Janitzio
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Pátzcuaro
An island in Lake Pátzcuaro topped with a giant statue of independence hero Morelos you can climb inside. It's famous for its Day of the Dead celebrations. Small fee for the boat.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
Central Mexico
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Photo: Thelmadatter · Public domain · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Grutas de Tolantongo
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Cardonal
A canyon in Hidalgo where warm spring water turns the river turquoise and fills stacked pools hanging on the cliff. You can sit in a hot pool and look straight out over the canyon. Entry fee, and go on weekdays to avoid big crowds.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: Diego Delso · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Prismas Basálticos
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Huasca de Ocampo
Huge six-sided basalt columns line a ravine near Huasca de Ocampo, with waterfalls pouring over them. Walk the bridges and stairs for every angle. Small fee, and combine it with Real del Monte.
- Typical visit: 30 min-1 hour
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: Unknown author · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Great Pyramid of Cholula
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · San Andrés Cholula
By volume, the biggest pyramid on Earth, so overgrown that the Spanish built a church on top thinking it was a hill. You can walk through tunnels dug inside it by archaeologists. Small fee, and climb up to the church for volcano views.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: Danielllerandi · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Cuetzalan
Things to Do · Free · Cuetzalan
A misty mountain town in Puebla with cobblestone streets, a Sunday market and the voladores, men who spin down from a tall pole on ropes. Free to wander, and try the local coffee.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: ProtoplasmaKid · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Biblioteca Palafoxiana
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Puebla
Opened in 1646, this is often called the Americas' earliest public library, a long hall in Puebla with three levels of carved wooden bookcases and old leather books. It's stunning and quiet. Small fee, free on Sundays.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: Unknown author · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Cacaxtla
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Nativitas
Ruins on a hill in Tlaxcala with some of the most colorful murals in ancient Mexico, showing jaguar and bird warriors in battle. A giant roof protects them from the weather. Small fee, and combine it with nearby Xochitécatl.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: Photograph: Frank C. Müller, Baden-Baden · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) El Tajín
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Papantla
A huge pre-Hispanic city in the Veracruz hills, famous for the Pyramid of the Niches with 365 little square windows. Papantla voladores spin down from a tall pole at the entrance. Small fee.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Burkhard Mücke · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Museo de Antropología de Xalapa
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Xalapa
A world-class museum, with giant Olmec stone heads set in a long, airy building that steps down a hill. It's often nearly empty. Small fee.
- Typical visit: 1.5-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Asedzie · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Tepozteco
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Tepoztlán
A small Aztec temple on top of a cliff above the magical town of Tepoztlán. The steep stone trail up takes about an hour. Small fee, and go early on weekdays.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: Maxtreiber · Public domain · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Xochicalco
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Miacatlán
A hilltop city in Morelos with a temple carved with feathered serpents and an observatory cave where sunlight shines straight in around the solstice. Small fee.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: México en Fotos, A.C. · CC BY-SA 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Nevado de Toluca
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Zinacantepec
An extinct volcano near Toluca whose crater holds two lakes, the Sun and the Moon, at over 4,000 meters. You can drive most of the way up and hike down into the crater. Small fee, bring warm layers and take it slow in the thin air.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: Unknown author · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Malinalco
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Malinalco
One of the only temples in Mexico carved straight out of a mountain cliff, built by the Aztecs for their elite eagle and jaguar warriors. The climb up from the colorful town takes about 20 minutes. Small fee, and stay for lunch in the town afterward.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
- Teotihuacán Things to Do
The North
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Photo: Jesus Alejandro Guer… · CC BY 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Barrancas del Cobre
Things to Do · Cost tier: $$ · Urique
A system of canyons in Chihuahua that's bigger and in places deeper than the Grand Canyon, home to the Rarámuri people. Ride the Chepe train or the cable car at Divisadero. Plan several days.
- Typical visit: 2-3 days
- Typical best time: October-November (green after the rains) or March-April
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Photo: Levi bernardo · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Paquimé
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Casas Grandes
An adobe city in the Chihuahua desert with maze-like walls, T-shaped doorways and pens where macaws were raised. It's a UNESCO site. Small fee, and don't miss the museum.
- Typical visit: 2-3 hours
- Typical best time: October-April; avoid summer heat and go early or late in the day
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Photo: Marioli925 · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Cuatro Ciénegas
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Cuatro Ciénegas
A desert valley in Coahuila with turquoise pools full of rare fish and ancient bacteria found nowhere else on Earth. Swim in the Río Los Mezquites, and see white gypsum dunes nearby. Small fee.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: October-April; avoid summer heat and go early or late in the day
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Photo: Chris Muenzer · CC BY 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Grutas de García
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · García
A cave high in the mountains near Monterrey, with huge chambers and formations, reached by a cable car up the cliff (check it is running before you go). Small fee, and bring a light jacket since it is cool inside.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: Richard Waitt, U.S. Geological Survey · Public domain · Photo page (opens in a new tab) El Pinacate
Things to Do · Cost tier: $ · Puerto Peñasco
A volcanic desert in Sonora with giant craters, lava fields and huge sand dunes. It's a UNESCO site and feels like Mars. Small fee, and you need a high-clearance car.
- Typical visit: Full day
- Typical best time: November-March (cooler months)
Hidden Gems & Unusual Things to Do in Mexico
122 places are flagged as lesser-known. They include Las Pozas, Hierve el Agua, Sótano de las Golondrinas, Museo de las Momias, the Zona del Silencio, Real de Catorce and Volcán Paricutín's buried church.
- Isla de las Muñecas Things to Do
- Museo Anahuacalli Things to Do
- Casa Luis Barragán Things to Do
- Biblioteca Vasconcelos Cheap-Free
- Palacio Postal Cheap-Free
- Mercado de Sonora Cheap-Free
- Mercado de Jamaica Cheap-Free
- Museo de Arte Popular Things to Do
- Espacio Escultórico Cheap-Free
- Cárcamo de Dolores Things to Do
- Cuicuilco Cheap-Free
- Museo Mural Diego Rivera Things to Do
- Museo Casa de León Trotsky Things to Do
- Café La Habana Food to Eat
- Frontón México Things to Do
- Tianguis Cultural del Chopo Cheap-Free
- Museo Universitario del Chopo Cheap-Free
- Desierto de los Leones Cheap-Free
- Los Dinamos Cheap-Free
- Edificio Basurto Cheap-Free
- Cineteca Nacional Cheap-Free
- Casa del Lago Cheap-Free
- MUAC Things to Do
- Museo Nacional de San Carlos Things to Do
- Museo Franz Mayer Things to Do
- Laboratorio Arte Alameda Things to Do
- Museo del Estanquillo Cheap-Free
- Panteón de San Fernando Cheap-Free
- Panteón Civil de Dolores Cheap-Free
- San Andrés Mixquic Cheap-Free
- Cerro de la Estrella Cheap-Free
- Museo Dolores Olmedo Things to Do
- Casa Gilardi Things to Do
- Edificio Ermita Cheap-Free
- Palacio de Minería Things to Do
- Mercado de La Merced Food to Eat
- Museo del Juguete Antiguo México Things to Do
- Pulquería Las Duelistas Food to Eat
- Pastelería Ideal Food to Eat
- Dulcería de Celaya Food to Eat
- Callejón del Aguacate Cheap-Free
- Mercado de Medellín Food to Eat
- Plaza Río de Janeiro (David replica) Cheap-Free
- Yagul Things to Do
- Teotitlán del Valle Things to Do
- San Bartolo Coyotepec Things to Do
- Mercado 20 de Noviembre Food to Eat
- Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca Things to Do
- Ek' Balam Things to Do
- Mayapán Things to Do
- Grutas de Loltún Things to Do
- Celestún Things to Do
- Hacienda Yaxcopoil Things to Do
- Muyil Things to Do
- Sian Ka'an Things to Do
- Isla Contoy Things to Do
- Calakmul Things to Do
- Edzná Things to Do
- Cataviña Boulder Field Cheap-Free
- Misión de Loreto Cheap-Free
- Sierra de San Francisco Cave Paintings Things to Do
- Laguna San Ignacio Things to Do
- Cabo Pulmo Things to Do
- Museo de las Momias Things to Do
- Mineral de Pozos Cheap-Free
- El Charco del Ingenio Things to Do
- Santuario de Atotonilco Cheap-Free
- Cañada de la Virgen Things to Do
- Mercado Hidalgo Food to Eat
- Guachimontones Things to Do
- Hospicio Cabañas Things to Do
- Yelapa Things to Do
- Mercado San Juan de Dios Food to Eat
- San Juan Chamula Things to Do
- Misol-Ha Things to Do
- Yaxchilán Things to Do
- Bonampak Things to Do
- Lagos de Montebello Things to Do
- Toniná Things to Do
- El Chiflón Things to Do
- Las Pozas Things to Do
- Sótano de las Golondrinas Things to Do
- Real de Catorce Things to Do
- Prismas Basálticos Things to Do
- Cuetzalan Things to Do
- Biblioteca Palafoxiana Things to Do
- Cacaxtla Things to Do
- Museo de Antropología de Xalapa Things to Do
- Paquimé Things to Do
- Cuatro Ciénegas Things to Do
- Zona del Silencio Cheap-Free
- Xochicalco Things to Do
- Volcán Parícutin Things to Do
- Santa Clara del Cobre Cheap-Free
- Nevado de Toluca Things to Do
- Malinalco Things to Do
- Santa Cecilia Acatitlán Cheap-Free
- Sierra Gorda Missions Cheap-Free
- Mina El Edén Things to Do
- Cerro de la Bufa Cheap-Free
- Grutas de García Things to Do
- El Pinacate Things to Do
- Cascada de Tamul Things to Do
- El Vilsito Food to Eat
- Panadería La Vasconia Food to Eat
- Cafebrería El Péndulo (Condesa) Food to Eat
- Mercado La Nueva Viga Food to Eat
- Museo del Pulque y las Pulquerías Things to Do
- MODO Museo del Objeto Things to Do
- Museo de la Caricatura Things to Do
- Museo de Geología de la UNAM Things to Do
- Museo del Calzado El Borceguí Cheap-Free
- Templo de Ehécatl (Metro Pino Suárez) Cheap-Free
- Zona Arqueológica de Mixcoac Cheap-Free
- Jardín Botánico de la UNAM Cheap-Free
- Cablebús Line 1 Cheap-Free
- Palacio de la Escuela de Medicina Cheap-Free
- Museo de El Carmen Things to Do
- Museo Nacional de las Intervenciones Things to Do
- Biblioteca de México (La Ciudadela) Cheap-Free
- Fonoteca Nacional Cheap-Free
- Museo Archivo de la Fotografía Things to Do
Free & Cheap Things to Do in Mexico
53 places are free to visit. Mexico City's free spots are on the Mexico City page.
Mexico City
- Biblioteca Vasconcelos Cheap-Free
- Palacio Postal Cheap-Free
- Mercado de Sonora Cheap-Free
- Mercado de Jamaica Cheap-Free
- Espacio Escultórico Cheap-Free
- Cuicuilco Cheap-Free
- Plaza de las Tres Culturas Cheap-Free
- Tianguis Cultural del Chopo Cheap-Free
- Museo Universitario del Chopo Cheap-Free
- Desierto de los Leones Cheap-Free
- Los Dinamos Cheap-Free
- Edificio Basurto Cheap-Free
- Cineteca Nacional Cheap-Free
- Casa del Lago Cheap-Free
- Museo del Estanquillo Cheap-Free
- Panteón de San Fernando Cheap-Free
- Panteón Civil de Dolores Cheap-Free
- San Andrés Mixquic Cheap-Free
- Cerro de la Estrella Cheap-Free
- Edificio Ermita Cheap-Free
- Plaza Garibaldi Cheap-Free
- Museo Soumaya Cheap-Free
- Callejón del Aguacate Cheap-Free
- Plaza Río de Janeiro (David replica) Cheap-Free
- Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) Cheap-Free
- Chapultepec Park & Castle Cheap-Free
- Museo del Calzado El Borceguí Cheap-Free
- Templo de Ehécatl (Metro Pino Suárez) Cheap-Free
- Zona Arqueológica de Mixcoac Cheap-Free
- Biblioteca Central de la UNAM Cheap-Free
- Jardín Botánico de la UNAM Cheap-Free
- Cablebús Line 1 Cheap-Free
- Palacio de la Escuela de Medicina Cheap-Free
- Biblioteca de México (La Ciudadela) Cheap-Free
- Fonoteca Nacional Cheap-Free
Oaxaca
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Photo: User:Gengiskanhg · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Árbol del Tule
Cheap-Free · Cost tier: $ · Santa María del Tule
A Montezuma cypress in Santa María del Tule with one of the widest trunks of any tree on Earth, about 2,000 years old. Kids from the village point out animal shapes in the bark. Tiny fee to get close.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: AlejandroLinaresGarcia · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Zipolite
Cheap-Free · Free · Zipolite
A long, wild beach known for its free spirit and one of Mexico's only clothing-optional stretches. The waves and currents are strong, so swim carefully. Cheap places to stay and eat.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
Yucatán and Quintana Roo
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Photo: Inri · CC0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Izamal
Cheap-Free · Free · Izamal
The Yellow City, where nearly every building is painted golden yellow, with a huge 16th-century convent and ancient pyramids right in town. Climb the Kinich Kakmó pyramid for free. Ride a horse carriage at night.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
Baja California
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Photo: Victor Aguinaga Guer… · CC BY 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Cataviña Boulder Field
Cheap-Free · Free · Cataviña
Halfway down the Baja peninsula, Highway 1 cuts through a surreal landscape of giant granite boulders, towering cardón cacti and spiky boojum trees. Pull over and scramble around, there are even small cave paintings hidden among the rocks. Free, but fill your tank before you get there.
- Typical visit: 30 min-1 hour
- Typical best time: October-April; avoid summer heat and go early or late in the day
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Photo: panza.rayada · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Todos Santos
Cheap-Free · Free · Todos Santos
An arty town on the Pacific side of Baja with galleries, surf beaches and old adobe buildings. In season you can watch baby sea turtle releases at sunset. Free to wander.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Luis Pedro Arroyave · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Misión de Loreto
Cheap-Free · Free · Loreto
Founded in 1697, this was the first Spanish mission in the Californias and the starting point for missions all the way up to San Francisco. The museum next door tells the story. Free to see the church.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Playa Balandra
Cheap-Free · Cost tier: $ · La Paz
A shallow turquoise bay near La Paz where you can wade across at low tide. The mushroom-shaped rock is its symbol. Small fee, and visitor numbers are limited so go early.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
Guanajuato and the Bajío
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Photo: Vlad Litvinov · CC BY 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Callejón del Beso
Cheap-Free · Free · Guanajuato
An alley so narrow that balconies on each side almost touch. Legend says couples must kiss on the third step or face seven years of bad luck. Free, but locals may charge a small tip for the story.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Mineral de Pozos
Cheap-Free · Free · San Luis de la Paz
A silver-mining boomtown that emptied out in the 1900s, leaving roofless haciendas and stone smelter chimneys scattered across the hills. Artists and mezcal makers are slowly bringing it back to life. Free to explore the ruins, and local guides can take you into old mine shafts.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: AlejandroLinaresGarcia · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Santuario de Atotonilco
Cheap-Free · Free · San Miguel de Allende
A small 18th-century church outside San Miguel de Allende whose walls and ceilings are covered with colorful, intense folk murals, earning it the nickname the Sistine Chapel of Mexico. It's a UNESCO site. Free, and try a gordita from the stalls outside.
- Typical visit: 30 min-1 hour
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: Unknown author · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Sierra Gorda Missions
Cheap-Free · Free · Jalpan de Serra
Five 18th-century Franciscan mission churches hidden in the green mountains of Querétaro, with wildly colorful baroque facades mixing saints and native symbols. They're a UNESCO site. Free, and base yourself in Jalpan de Serra.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
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Photo: Unknown author · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Cerro de la Bufa
Cheap-Free · Free · Zacatecas
The rocky hill that towers over Zacatecas, with a church, a battle museum and huge views over the pink stone city. Ride the cable car up from downtown. Free to visit the top.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
Jalisco and the Pacific coast
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Photo: Omar1976 · Public domain · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Tlaquepaque
Cheap-Free · Free · Tlaquepaque
A colorful crafts town just outside Guadalajara with galleries, pottery shops and a gazebo plaza where mariachis play at El Parián. Free to wander, and great for buying blown glass.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: November-April (dry season); go early morning to beat heat and crowds
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Photo: Thelmadatter · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Santa Clara del Cobre
Cheap-Free · Free · Santa Clara del Cobre
A small town in Michoacán where artisans have hammered copper by hand since before the Spanish arrived, and the main street rings with the sound. Step into a family workshop to watch a pot take shape over the fire. Free to visit, and the August copper fair is a highlight.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
Central Mexico
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Photo: Gargancio · Public domain · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Santa Cecilia Acatitlán
Cheap-Free · Cost tier: $ · Tlalnepantla
A small Aztec pyramid in Tlalnepantla, just north of Mexico City, restored with its temple on top so you can see what these shrines really looked like. There's a little sculpture museum in an old house next to it. Small fee and hardly any crowds.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
The North
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Photo: Cryptocône · CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Zona del Silencio
Cheap-Free · Free · Mapimí
A desert area in Durango where legend says radios stop working and meteorites fall. It's more myth than fact, but the landscape is wild. Free, and go with a local guide.
- Typical visit: Half day
- Typical best time: October-April; avoid summer heat and go early or late in the day
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Photo: México en Fotos · CC BY-SA 2.0 (opens in a new tab) · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Parque Fundidora
Cheap-Free · Free · Monterrey
An old steel foundry in Monterrey turned into a huge park, with rusting blast furnaces you can climb and a riverwalk. Free, and the Horno3 steel museum is inside.
- Typical visit: 1-2 hours
- Typical best time: Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings are quietest
What to Eat in Mexico
20 food stops, from city markets to a wine valley in Baja. Other stops include Mercado 20 de Noviembre in Oaxaca, Mercado San Juan de Dios in Guadalajara and Real del Monte.
Mexico City
- Casa de los Azulejos Food to Eat
- Café La Habana Food to Eat
- Churrería El Moro Food to Eat
- Mercado de San Juan Food to Eat
- Mercado de La Merced Food to Eat
- Bar La Ópera Food to Eat
- Pulquería Las Duelistas Food to Eat
- Pastelería Ideal Food to Eat
- Dulcería de Celaya Food to Eat
- Mercado de Medellín Food to Eat
- Mercado de Coyoacán Food to Eat
- El Vilsito Food to Eat
- Panadería La Vasconia Food to Eat
- Cafebrería El Péndulo (Condesa) Food to Eat
- Mercado La Nueva Viga Food to Eat
Oaxaca
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Mercado 20 de Noviembre
Food to Eat · Cost tier: $ · Oaxaca de Juárez
Walk into the smoky meat hall, pick your raw meat from a butcher and they'll grill it for you right there. Grab tortillas and salsa from vendors. Cheap and unforgettable.
- Typical visit: 45 min-1 hour
- Typical best time: Weekday, outside peak meal times (lines are shortest mid-afternoon)
Baja California
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Photo: No machine-readable author provided. Hlecuanda assumed (based on copyright claims). · Public domain · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Valle de Guadalupe
Food to Eat · Cost tier: $$ · Ensenada
Baja's wine country, roughly 90 minutes' drive south of the border, is full of experimental wineries, rustic outdoor restaurants and boutique hotels built from shipping containers and reclaimed wood. Book a driver so everyone can taste. Weekdays are calmer and cheaper.
- Typical visit: 45 min-1 hour
- Typical best time: Weekday, outside peak meal times (lines are shortest mid-afternoon)
Guanajuato and the Bajío
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Mercado Hidalgo
Food to Eat · Cost tier: $ · Guanajuato
A grand iron-and-glass market hall from 1910 in the center of Guanajuato, with food stalls downstairs and crafts on the balcony. Grab a gordita or an enchilada minera. Cheap and very local.
- Typical visit: 45 min-1 hour
- Typical best time: Weekday, outside peak meal times (lines are shortest mid-afternoon)
Jalisco and the Pacific coast
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Mercado San Juan de Dios
Food to Eat · Cost tier: $ · Guadalajara
One of the biggest indoor markets in Latin America, three floors of everything from food to electronics in Guadalajara. Head upstairs for birria and tortas ahogadas. Cheap and chaotic.
- Typical visit: 45 min-1 hour
- Typical best time: Weekday, outside peak meal times (lines are shortest mid-afternoon)
Central Mexico
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Photo: El Ágora · Public domain · Photo page (opens in a new tab) Real del Monte
Food to Eat · Cost tier: $ · Mineral del Monte
A cobblestone mountain town in Hidalgo where Cornish miners arrived in the 1800s and brought their pasties, now called pastes. Try them stuffed with mole or rice pudding. Cheap and delicious.
- Typical visit: 45 min-1 hour
- Typical best time: Weekday, outside peak meal times (lines are shortest mid-afternoon)
Where to Stay & When to Go
Treat the country as separate regions. For most of Mexico, the dry season from about November to April is the easiest time to travel. The rainy season runs roughly from June to October. Hurricane season on both coasts runs into November. On the Caribbean coast, sargassum seaweed tends to peak in the warmer months. Safety varies by state, so check the current advisory for each state on your route.
Ancient Sites and Cenotes
24 ancient sites and 4 cenotes are on this list. Mexico City's sites are on the Mexico City page.
Ancient sites
- Cuicuilco Cheap-Free
- Plaza de las Tres Culturas Cheap-Free
- Mitla Things to Do
- Yagul Things to Do
- Ek' Balam Things to Do
- Mayapán Things to Do
- Cobá Things to Do
- Muyil Things to Do
- Calakmul Things to Do
- Edzná Things to Do
- Cañada de la Virgen Things to Do
- Guachimontones Things to Do
- Yaxchilán Things to Do
- Bonampak Things to Do
- Toniná Things to Do
- Great Pyramid of Cholula Things to Do
- Cacaxtla Things to Do
- El Tajín Things to Do
- Paquimé Things to Do
- Tepozteco Things to Do
- Xochicalco Things to Do
- Malinalco Things to Do
- Santa Cecilia Acatitlán Cheap-Free
- Templo Mayor Things to Do
Cenotes
- Cenote Ik Kil Things to Do
- Cenote Suytun Things to Do
- Cenote Dos Ojos Things to Do
- Gran Cenote Things to Do
Map of Things to Do in Mexico
The map loads when you reach this section. Every spot is also linked on this page.
Mexico FAQ
What is the best time to visit Mexico?
For most of the country, the dry season from about November to April is the easiest time to travel. The rainy season runs roughly from June to October, often with afternoon storms. Hurricane season on both coasts runs into November. On the Caribbean coast, sargassum seaweed tends to peak in the warmer months, and conditions vary each year.
Is Mexico safe to visit?
Safety varies a lot from state to state, and even within a state. Governments such as the US State Department publish advisories rated state by state, and those change. Check the current advisory for each state on your route, and follow local advice once you're there.
What is Mexico known for food-wise?
Mexican food is intensely regional. Mole and tlayudas are typical of Oaxaca, cochinita pibil of the Yucatán, birria of Jalisco and tacos al pastor of Mexico City. Traditional Mexican cuisine is on UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Markets are the easiest way in: this guide includes market stops in Mexico City, Oaxaca, Guanajuato and Guadalajara.
How many days do you need in Mexico?
A week gives you enough time for one region done well, such as Mexico City plus a day trip, or the Yucatán's cenotes and ruins. With 10–14 days you can combine two regions, such as Mexico City and Oaxaca, using a domestic flight or an overnight bus.
What is a cenote?
A cenote is a natural sinkhole where the limestone ground has collapsed and exposed groundwater. Cenotes are especially common on the Yucatán Peninsula, and many are open for swimming. This guide includes four, including Ik Kil near Chichén Itzá and Gran Cenote near Tulum. Check entry rules, because some require a shower before swimming or have no-sunscreen policies.