Things to Do in Mexico

Mexico offers an incredible variety of experiences, from exploring ancient cities and vibrant markets to relaxing on stunning beaches and indulging in world-class cuisine. Whether you're into adventure, history, or relaxation, there's something for everyone.

A trip to Mexico isn’t complete unless you spend a day wandering around one or two of the country’s ancient Mayan ruins. These sites delve into the depths of the Mayan culture, allowing travelers a chance to marvel at the near-prehistoric construction. For a unique experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Visiting at least one ruin site is at the top of our list of things to do in Mexico.

Top destinations:

• Chichén Itzá: Located roughly two hours outside of Cancun, Chichén Itzá was a political and economic powerhouse around 600 A.D. The dominating pyramids instantly dwarf visitors, leaving them to gawk at the unreal craftsmanship that’s made Chichén Itzá one of the greatest examples of Mayan prowess. Clusters of this ancient city are scattered far and wide, but the concentrated areas open to the public include the Great North Platform, the Ossario Group, and the Central Group.
• Teotihuacán: Teotihuacán claims the crown for the best-known Aztec ruin in Mexico. Lying less than an hour outside of Mexico City, this sprawling archeological complex is easily accessible and more than worth the quick jaunt. Built around 400 B.C., Teotihuacán’s architects are unknown. In fact, the complex lay abandoned for centuries before the Aztecs rediscovered it in the 1400s. Teotihuacán is shrouded in mystery, but one thing is for sure: the pyramid structure and temples are beyond impressive.

Best season: Visit in the dry season (November to April) and as early in the morning as possible to beat the crowds. Alternatively, visiting the lit-up Chichén Itzá after dark offers a whole new perspective.

Mexico offers an incredible variety of landscapes and routes for trekkers of all levels. The Copper Canyon in Chihuahua presents dramatic views and challenging terrain, while the Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl Volcanoes near Mexico City offer high-altitude hikes with stunning vistas. The Sierra Norte in Oaxaca boasts lush forests and indigenous villages. For a coastal experience, the Sierra Madre del Sur near Acapulco combines jungle trails with spectacular ocean views, making Mexico a trekker’s paradise. Check out our trekking tours in Mexico.

Top routes:

• Sierra Norte: The Sierra Norte Mountains offer dozens of forested trails, many of which wind through indigenous villages. Crooked Trails provides a multi-day tour, guiding trekkers on trails linking several villages that offer glimpses into the native way of life.
• Copper Canyon: A six-canyon compound strewn over 25,000 square miles in northwestern Mexico, Copper Canyon is comparable in size to the United States’ Grand Canyon. Make the town of Creel your home base, hire a guide, and take to the maze of trails running through the area. The biodiversity here remains rich since development is practically non-existent.
• Iztaccihuatl: An extinct volcano, Iztaccihuatl is the third-highest mountain in Mexico. Popularly called the sleeping lady, Iztaccihuatl is best explored on a hike. La Arista del Sol is the standard hiking route that climbs past the feet of the mountain, across the stomach, and onto the head, which also makes it the most popular. Besides the rewarding view, also enjoy the vast diversity of flora and fauna the mountain flaunts.

Best season: The best months for trekking in Mexico are November to April, which offer cooler, drier weather conditions. May to October brings higher humidity and rain, making trekking more challenging.

Mexico is a paradise for nature lovers, with diverse landscapes ranging from lush jungles to stunning deserts. Explore the unique biosphere reserves of Sian Ka'an and Montes Azules, home to abundant wildlife. Discover the crystal-clear waters of cenotes like those in Yucatán, perfect for swimming or diving. Visit the breathtaking Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Michoacán, where millions of butterflies migrate each year. The dramatic Copper Canyon and the coastal beauty of Baja California also offer unforgettable natural wonders to explore. These are just a few fun things to do in Mexico that will leave you in awe.

Top destinations:

• Copper Canyon: The Copper Canyon in northern Mexico is a vast network of six canyons. It offers awe-inspiring landscapes, rich biodiversity, and opportunities for scenic train rides, hiking, and cultural exploration with Tarahumara communities.
• Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: Located on the Yucatán Peninsula, Sian Ka'an is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its incredible biodiversity. The reserve spans tropical forests, wetlands, and coral reefs, home to rare species like jaguars and manatees, and offers eco-tourism experiences.
• Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve: Situated in Michoacán, this reserve is a sanctuary for millions of migrating monarch butterflies. Every winter, the area becomes a mesmerizing display of orange and black as the butterflies cluster on oyamel fir trees—a truly stunning natural spectacle.

Best season: The best months to explore nature in Mexico are from November to April, as the weather is cooler and drier, ideal for outdoor activities.

Mexican cuisine is a vibrant part of the travel experience, offering bold flavors and regional specialties. Try mole poblano in Puebla, a rich sauce with chocolate and spices, or tacos al pastor in Mexico City. For a taste of the Yucatán, savor cochinita pibil, slow-cooked pork with achiote. Oaxaca is renowned for its tlayudas, large tortillas topped with cheese, meat, and vegetables. Don’t miss ceviche along the coast of Baja California, where fresh seafood is abundant and delicious. For an immersive experience, take a Mexican cooking class in places like Oaxaca or Mexico City, where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes like tamales, salsas, and tortillas, gaining hands-on knowledge of the rich culinary heritage. Here are our Mexico food tours.

Top dishes:

• Tacos: Tacos are the ultimate Mexican street food. While they appear simple in design (typically a tortilla, meat/fish, and salsa), it’s the preparation that takes place behind the scenes that makes the difference. Baja California reigns supreme in the fish taco department (check out Tacos El Muelle or Asadero Danny’s) while it’s hard to go wrong in Mexico City at Taqueria Los Parados.
• Pozole: Pozole is the Mexican hangover cure and you might need it after sampling all that tequila and mezcal! Made (usually) with pork and hominy corn and loaded with spices and herbs, this dish typically stews overnight and is garnished with lettuce, radish, onion, lime, and chili.

Best time: When you’re good and hungry!

Mexico boasts a rich tapestry of art and architecture. In Mexico City, explore the iconic Palacio de Bellas Artes, home to murals by Diego Rivera, and the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacán, showcasing the artist’s vibrant life. In Oaxaca, marvel at the colonial-era Santo Domingo Church and the Museo de Arte Prehispánico. Chichen Itza in the Yucatán Peninsula offers stunning Mayan architecture, while San Miguel de Allende showcases beautifully preserved colonial buildings, blending history with artistic expression. These are some of the top Mexican attractions that offer a deep dive into the country’s artistic and architectural heritage. Check out our art and architecture tours in Mexico.

Top destinations:

• Mexico City: Mexico City is an artistic mecca, where Catedral Metropolitana showcases stunning Baroque architecture. Don’t miss the Museo Tamayo, featuring contemporary art, and the Museo de Arte Moderno for a look at Mexican artists like Rivera and Siqueiros, celebrating modernism. Frida Kahlo Museum houses personal items of the late artist as well as some of her most significant works, displayed in her childhood home. Known as Casa Azul (Blue House), it’s one of the most visited museums in Mexico City.
• Guadalajara: Guadalajara, known for its rich cultural heritage, boasts architectural gems like the Teatro Degollado, a neoclassical theater, and the Instituto Cultural Cabañas, a Unesco World Heritage Site adorned with murals by José Clemente Orozco. The city’s vibrant murals and galleries make it an art lover’s paradise.
• Oaxaca: Oaxaca is a city where art and architecture seamlessly blend. Explore the Museo Rufino Tamayo, showcasing pre-Hispanic artifacts alongside modern works, and admire the elegant Templo de Santo Domingo, a stunning example of colonial Baroque architecture. The city’s vibrant Central de Artes de Oaxaca offers a rich display of indigenous crafts, while the surrounding towns of Teotitlán del Valle and San Bartolo Coyotepec are known for their textile and pottery traditions, adding an authentic local touch to the art scene.

Best season: The best months to explore art and architecture in Mexico are November to April when the weather is cooler and more comfortable. This allows for relaxed visits to museums, historical sites, and vibrant cultural events.

Experiencing festivals in Mexico is a vibrant way to immerse yourself in its culture. Celebrate Día de los Muertos in Oaxaca, where colorful altars and parades honor deceased loved ones. Participate in Carnaval in Veracruz dazzles, with lively music, dancing, and elaborate costumes. Or attend the Guelaguetza Festival in Oaxaca, which showcases indigenous traditions through dance and music. For a unique experience, don’t miss La Noche de Rábanos in Oaxaca, where intricate radish sculptures are displayed. These are just a few unique things to do in Mexico.

Top attractions:

• Carnaval: Carnaval celebrations are found throughout Mexico, however, Mazatlán and Veracruz throw the biggest bashes. The five-day party is presented as a time of full indulgence before the commencement of Lent. Participants dress in colorful masks, enjoy live music, dance, eat, and drink to their hearts’ content. Parades and fireworks mark the biggest celebration day – typically on a Sunday.
• Día de los Muertos: Participate in the Day of the Dead (not to be confused with the “Mexican Halloween”), a time when Mexicans joyfully remember family members who have passed away. The skull-themed makeup is the holiday’s most recognizable symbol, but there are many other traditions that go along with face painting and elaborate costumes. A big part of the celebration includes parades, parties, singing, dancing, and making offerings to deceased loved ones.

Best season: Carnaval runs in February; Day of the Dead is celebrated from October to November.

Mexico isn’t America’s favorite spring break destination for nothing. Powder-soft sand and warm waters entice visitors to the country’s coast all year long. For a more secluded experience, visit the Marietas Islands, a hidden paradise off the coast of Puerto Vallarta. Known for their pristine beaches, including the famous Hidden Beach, these islands offer incredible opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting, making them one of the most tranquil and unique beach tours in Mexico.

Top destinations:

• Tulum: The beaches of Tulum line the popular Yucatán Peninsula and draw beach bums from far and wide to their idyllic shores. Playa Paraíso lives up to its name, offering a secluded nirvana for beachgoers and snorkelers looking to bask in a pristine setting. Playa Ruinas snags the top spot for location, tucked below a rugged cliff upon which the Mayan Ruins of Tulum sit overlooking the sea.
• Isla Mujeres: Isla Mujeres, an idyllic sanctuary lying just off the coast of Cancun, serves as an escape from the bustle of the mainland party people. White sand beaches, calm waters, and friendly residents extend a warm welcome to anyone stepping foot on the island’s shores. Isla Mujeres offers visitors a choice; slip into pure relaxation mode, or — on the flip side — pack days with adventurous cliff walks, Mayan ruin discoveries, scuba diving, and swimming with whale sharks. For a unique experience, take a sailing or catamaran tour around the island, offering stunning views of the coastline, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and enjoying the breeze.

Best season: The best months for a beach holiday in Mexico are November to April. During this period, the weather is sunny, dry, and pleasantly warm, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and outdoor activities.

Exploring Mexico’s cities offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and modern flair. In Mexico City, visit the Zócalo, one of the world’s largest city squares, and wander through the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacán. For a more contemporary experience, stroll through the La Roma district with its trendy cafés and boutiques. Head to Guadalajara to experience its historic architecture, explore the colorful Tlaquepaque district, and enjoy tequila-tasting tours. In Oaxaca, discover ancient Zapotec ruins and attend a local weaving workshop. Mérida is known for its colonial buildings, vibrant markets, and nearby cenotes. For truly cool things to do in Mexico, don’t miss the lively street art scene in Monterrey or the underground rivers in Chiapas.

Top destinations:

• Mexico City: Mexico City, with its endless activities and entertainment options, proves to be a genuine introduction to Mexico as the cultural and historical hub of the country. Crowded and lively, Mexico City is a designated UNESCO-recognized site thanks to its outstanding food scene, numerous top-ranked museums, and a multitude of historical sites.
• Puerto Vallarta: Puerto Vallarta manages to hold on to its authenticity while still being a quintessential holiday destination. The cosmopolitan West Coast city is more than just a day at the beach. Some of the best things to do exist on the strip just off the beach on El Malecón where sand sculptures pose next to bronze ones, oceanfront dining and drinks are a must, and the iconic Church of Our Lady Guadalupe quietly observes all the action.
• Oaxaca: A trip to Oaxaca offers a rich blend of colonial architecture and indigenous culture. Explore the stunning Santo Domingo Church, stroll through vibrant markets, and visit Monte Albán for ancient Zapotec ruins. Don’t miss local workshops showcasing traditional crafts.

Best season: The best months for city exploration in Mexico are November to April. During this period, the weather is cooler and drier, perfect for wandering through cities and enjoying outdoor activities without the heat or rain.

Mexico's local entertainment is famous for its lucha libre wrestling and vibrant mariachi music. Experience the thrill of a lucha libre match on a trip to Mexico City, where masked wrestlers perform acrobatic and dramatic stunts. In Guadalajara, immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of mariachi music, whether at a lively restaurant or during the annual Mariachi Festival, celebrating this iconic genre.

Top attractions:

• Lucha Libre match: Watch a Lucha Libre match at the Arena México in Mexico City, typically entailing a masked, tri-team of wrestlers who tag team in an attempt to defeat their opponent.
• Mariachi: Mariachi music originated in the Mexican countryside in at least the 18th century and has been a staple in the country’s culture ever since. Check out the free show that’s always on in Mexico City’s Plaza Garibaldi or enjoy the music with dinner and drinks at Tenampa.

Best season: Lucha Libre is year-round and Mariachi in the Plaza is a nightly occurrence.

Visiting Mexico and drinking tequila go hand in hand. From party shots on the street to original cocktails, Mexico is the place to indulge. But maybe not in the way you’d think.

Top drinks:

• Tequila: Tequila in Mexico is traditionally served neat and without salt or lime. Some places may offer a “chaser”, known as sangria, a fruit juice spiced up with hot sauce and, sometimes, tomato juice and/or Worcestershire sauce. Tequila made with 100% agave is meant to be sipped, not thrown back in a hurry, so post up and take your time enjoying it.
• Mezcal: Mezcal, the smokier version of tequila, uses upwards of 50 different agave plants (while tequila is produced from just a single agave). Mezcal is generally consumed straight, but don’t shoot it; smell, sip, and swirl it around in your mouth to experience the true flavors! Most Mezcal is made in Oaxaca, so hit up one of these bars for the real deal.

Best season: There’s never a bad time for drinking in Mexico.

Mexico is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a variety of ecosystems and unique species. Spot monarch butterflies in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Michoacán, or encounter jaguars and pumas in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve in Campeche. The Sian Ka'an Biosphere in the Yucatán Peninsula is home to manatees and wild dolphins, while Baja California is perfect for whale watching, especially gray whales. Explore Copper Canyon for sightings of the elusive Mexican wolf and black bears, making Mexico a top destination for diverse wildlife encounters. Here are our wildlife tours in Mexico.

Top destinations:

• Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve: The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Michoacán is one of the most unique wildlife experiences in Mexico. Each year, millions of monarch butterflies migrate here from Canada and the U.S., creating a breathtaking natural spectacle in the serene forests.
• Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve in the Yucatán Peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to diverse wildlife. Here, you can spot jaguars, manatees, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, while exploring tropical forests and mangrove-lined waterways.
• Baja California: In Baja California, whale watching is a top attraction, particularly from January to April, when gray whales migrate to the warm lagoons of the Pacific coast. Visitors can get up close to these majestic creatures, witnessing their breaching, tail slapping, and playful interactions. San Ignacio Lagoon and Ojo de Liebre are prime spots, where the calm waters allow for intimate encounters with the whales. The region also offers a chance to see other marine life, including dolphins and sea lions, making it a true wildlife paradise.

Best season: The best months to view wildlife in Mexico are December to April. This period aligns with migration seasons, like gray whales in Baja California and monarch butterflies in Michoacán, offering optimal conditions for wildlife sightings in various ecosystems.

Mexico offers excellent opportunities for watersports, particularly in its stunning cenotes. These natural freshwater pools, like Cenote Ik Kil and Cenote Dos Ojos in the Yucatán, are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Explore crystal-clear waters and underwater cave systems, teeming with stalactites, stalagmites, and unique marine life. Cenote Azul, near Playa del Carmen, is another great spot for snorkeling, offering vibrant fish and a refreshing escape. Mexico's coastlines also provide top-notch surfing, kayaking, and kiteboarding opportunities, especially in Sayulita and Cabo San Lucas.

Top destinations:

• Xel-Ha Eco Park: Visit Xel-Ha Eco Park, a naturally formed environment located in the Mayan Riviera known for its beauty and many water activities. Snorkeling and exploring the impressive marine life is an obvious highlight, but visitors can also discover a variety of animals as they make their way around the park. The Xel-Ha Eco Park is also home to a number of activities that can be enjoyed by the entire family.
• Cozumel: Cozumel is incredibly proud of its rich marine life, unusual coral formations and prized diving spots. It is one of those few authentic travel destinations that has been left alone by tourism, but you need to leave the tourist area and those souvenir shops behind to explore Cozumel’s true beauty. Snorkeling and diving are the most obvious highlights with the reefs surrounding Cozumel and the Banco Chinchorro coral atoll being the most popular diving destinations. You can also spend some time in the town square or rent a scooter to explore less-visited parts of the island.

Best season: The best months for watersports in Mexico are December to April. During this period, the weather is warm and dry, ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing, with calm seas and clear waters.

Mexico is home to some stunning waterfalls perfect for swimming and exploring. Visit Hierve el Agua in Oaxaca, where mineral-rich water cascades over cliffs creating natural pools. The breathtaking Agua Azul in Chiapas offers vibrant turquoise waters surrounded by lush jungle. In the state of Veracruz, Papantla’s El Encanto waterfall provides a serene spot for a swim. For a more hidden gem, Las Nubes in Chiapas offers crystal-clear waters and picturesque views, making it an ideal swimming destination.

Top destinations:

• Tulum: Swim in Cenotes in Tulum, the world-renowned underwater playground for advanced scuba divers. Even if cave diving isn’t your thing, just swimming and snorkeling in these natural sinkholes can be a top experience in Mexico. Dos Ojos stuns with unbelievably clear water in otherworldly surroundings. Here are our tours in Tulum.
• Hierve el Aqua: Witness the Petrified Waterfall known as Hierve el Aqua, which at first glance appears to be a waterfall frozen in time. Upon further investigation, you’ll find the cascading “water” is actually hardened mineral deposits left behind by water trickling over the edge. Enjoy a swim in the natural infinity pool at the bottom!

Best season: Contrary to popular belief, the dry season (November to May) allows for easier waterfall access and generates the clear blue water that makes pictures pop.

Mexico meets visitors with feverous energy, encouraging indulgence in all the country has to offer. Whether you’re a foodie enticed by tacos or a history buff enthralled with the ancient past, finding things to do in Mexico is one problem you’ll never face.

Still, wondering how to spend your holiday in Mexico? Contact our travel experts for a customized trip to Mexico with all the activities you want to try during your trip.