Mexico Travel Ideas and Destinations: Top Cities in Mexico to Visit

When it comes to traveling, Mexico is a top destination that never disappoints. From its rich culture and history to its stunning beaches and vibrant cities, there's something for everyone.

As people who have visited Mexico multiple times, we can confidently say that exploring the country's different cities is the best way to experience all that it has to offer. There is so much variety when it comes to Mexican culture, food, and experiences that you really need to visit multiple cities to be able to get the full experience.

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Mexico City

If you're looking for a vibrant and bustling city to explore, Mexico City is definitely worth checking out. This incredible city is full of life, history, and culture.

There's so much to discover here that you'll want to make sure you have plenty of time to explore all the amazing sights and sounds. Whether you're interested in learning about the ancient Aztec civilization or indulging in the delicious street food scene, Mexico City has something for everyone.

One of the best things about visiting Mexico City is the opportunity to discover its rich history and culture. You can start your journey by exploring some of the city's most iconic landmarks, such as the National Palace or the Metropolitan Cathedral.

These buildings are steeped in history and will give you a glimpse into Mexico's fascinating past. Of course, no trip to Mexico City would be complete without indulging in its delicious street food scene.

The city boasts an incredible array of culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds. Make sure you check out one of the many street markets throughout the city where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

One thing that sets Mexico City apart from other destinations is its vibrant nightlife scene. If you love music, dancing, and good times with friends, then head out on a night tour through some of its most famous cantinas or bars like La Opera or El Califa Norte Bar & Grill.

Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas comes in on our list as of our favorite Mexican cities. We traveled to Cabo in 2021 and stayed at the wonderful Esperanza resort but the best part about Cabo is you have so many options to pick from.

Whether it is staying outside the city right on the beach or staying in the downtown area, there is a great place to stay here for everyone. It is such a cool location too, nestled on the Baja Peninsula and basically being a connection point between the desert and the ocean.

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When it comes to beaches, we don't think there is a bad one anywhere in Cabo and really, these might be the best beaches in Mexico. Medano Beach, with its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, is perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Lover's Beach, tucked away on the iconic Land's End arch, is a secluded paradise accessible only by boat, where you can explore the awe-inspiring rock formations. Playa del Amor, another nearby gem, is ideal for snorkeling, and immersing yourself in the vibrant marine life below.

But what truly sets Cabo apart is its nightlife. The city comes alive after the sun sets, with bustling bars and clubs where you can dance the night away. Cabo Wabo Cantina, famous for its live music and electrifying atmosphere, is a must-visit. Plus, the culinary scene here is equally enticing, with a delectable fusion of Mexican and international cuisines.

Cancun

You might have gone to Cancun on spring break while in school but Cancun also works as an adult vacation spot. From the beautiful beaches to relax on to a wild nightlife, no matter how you are going to spend your time in Cancun, there is something for everyone here.

Relax on the Beautiful Beaches

Laze around on the stunning sandy shores of one of Mexico's top cities, where crystal-clear waters and palm trees sway in harmony like a symphony. Relaxation is key when it comes to beach activities, and there's no shortage of serene settings to unwind at in these beautiful destinations.

In Cancun, you'll find some of the most picturesque beaches in all of Mexico. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot or a lively scene, there's something for everyone here.

The soft white sand and turquoise waters are perfect for swimming or lounging with a good book. And with plenty of beach resorts lining the coast, you can enjoy all the amenities you need right at your fingertips.

Explore the Underwater World of the Great Mayan Reef

Get ready to dive into the incredible underwater world of the Great Mayan Reef, where you can discover vibrant coral reefs and swim alongside exotic sea creatures. This natural wonder is located along the coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula and is home to over 500 species of fish and hundreds of types of coral.

One way to explore this amazing ecosystem is through snorkeling tours that take you on a journey beneath the surface. During these tours, you'll have a chance to see everything from colorful tropical fish to majestic sea turtles and even sharks!

But as much fun as exploring this underwater world can be, it's important to remember that we must also do our part in conserving it for future generations.

Coral conservation efforts are being made throughout Mexico and your visit can help support these initiatives. By learning about the importance of protecting coral reefs, we can all play a role in preserving this vital ecosystem.

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Enjoy the Nightlife and Entertainment

You'll be swept away by the vibrant energy of Cancun's nightlife, where the music and lights transport you to another world. These places have everything from hip-hop to salsa music that will keep you on your feet all night long.

Live music and dance performances are also part of the Cancun nightlife scene. You can catch a mariachi band playing traditional songs or watch a flamenco dancer twirl around on stage. Many bars offer live entertainment as well, making it easy to find something that suits your taste.

Oaxaca

Explore the vibrant markets and colorful architecture of Oaxaca, where you'll feel transported to a world filled with authentic Mexican culture. This city is known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich history, making it a must-visit destination in Mexico.

One of the best things about Oaxaca is its traditional cuisine. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, you'll find plenty of delicious dishes that showcase the region's unique flavors.

Be sure to try some mole, a thick sauce made from chili peppers, chocolate, and other ingredients. In addition to its mouth-watering food scene, Oaxaca is also home to a number of cultural festivals throughout the year.

These celebrations provide an opportunity to experience the city's rich traditions and customs up close. One of these festivals is Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), which takes place every November 1st and 2nd. During this time, locals honor their deceased loved ones by building elaborate altars decorated with flowers, candles, and offerings.

If you're interested in exploring Oaxaca's art scene, head to one of the many galleries or museums in town. The Museo Textil de Oaxaca showcases traditional textiles from various indigenous communities in the state while the Centro Fotografico Manuel Alvarez Bravo features photography exhibitions by local artists.

No trip to Oaxaca would be complete without visiting some of its historic landmarks like Santo Domingo de Guzman Church or Monte Alban archaeological site. These sites provide insight into the city's fascinating past and offer some incredible views over Oaxaca Valley.

Guadalajara

Experience the vibrant spirit of Guadalajara, where mariachi music fills the streets and tequila flows freely. Known as the birthplace of mariachi, you can hear this lively music at almost every corner.

The city is also famous for its beautiful colonial architecture, stunning cathedrals, and museums that showcase Mexico's rich history. One cannot leave Guadalajara without indulging in traditional Mexican cuisine. From street food to fine dining, there are endless options to choose from.

Try some birria, a spicy goat stew served with tortillas and lime wedges or enjoy a refreshing tejuino, a fermented corn drink served with lime juice and salt. Don't forget to end your meal with some sweet pastel de tres leches.

If you're planning a trip to Guadalajara, try to coincide it with one of their cultural festivals like the International Mariachi Festival or the annual Book Fair, the largest in Latin America. During these times, the city comes alive with vibrant colors, folklore dances, live music performances, and much more.

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Puerto Vallarta

If you're looking for a coastal paradise in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta is the perfect destination for you. This city boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country and a host of activities to keep any traveler entertained.

One of the top activities in Puerto Vallarta is taking a stroll along the Malecon boardwalk. It's a great way to take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city while enjoying the ocean breeze.

Another must-do activity while visiting Puerto Vallarta is exploring its rich history and culture. The Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe is an iconic landmark that showcases stunning architecture and impressive art pieces inside. For those who enjoy nature, head out on a whale-watching tour or visit one of many nearby natural reserves like El Salado Estuary or Los Arcos National Marine Park.

When it comes to dining, Puerto Vallarta offers some amazing options that cater to all tastes and budgets. For seafood lovers, La Palapa serves up fresh catch-of-the-day dishes right on the beachfront with breathtaking sunset views. If you're craving authentic Mexican cuisine, try El Arrayan where traditional recipes are given modern twists using local ingredients.

Enjoy Traveling to Mexico

Our favorite Mexican city so far has definitely been Cabo San Lucas. From its amazing resorts to its beautiful, secluded beaches we had an amazing trip when we visited Esperanza Resort.  And we didn't even get to the amazing nightlife (but that's always a reason to go back)!

The food throughout Mexico is a can't-miss and really no matter where you go or what you eat, you won't be disappointed by the options on offer. We have eaten many different meals in Mexico from street vendors and small restaurants to bigger restaurants inside of bustling resorts.

Culturally there are things to see in every single city in Mexico so you can't go wrong but we highly suggest you make a trip to Mexico for Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead). There is no better day to experience everything that Mexico has to offer and see something unique in the world that you truly can't experience anywhere else.

We've gone on bigger, more grand Mexico vacations and we've also walked over the border in Nogales for a quick fun night. No matter the city, no matter the vacation, Mexico does not disappoint.

As with all international travel, remember to always be vigilant of your surroundings and avoid any areas that you don't feel safe in. If you stick to more touristy spots, you can make sure to get a little taste of what Mexico has to offer.


Mexico is a mosaic of different realities and beauties

- Enrique Pena Nieto