Mexico things to see and do

Things to see and do

Cancún and the Riviera Maya

The Caribbean coast around Cancún and the Riviera Maya is known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and resort towns. Beyond the coastline, visitors can explore cenotes, coral reefs and nearby archaeological sites such as Tulum. The region combines beach tourism with cultural and natural attractions.

Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá, on the Yucatán Peninsula, is one of Mexico's most famous Mayan sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The central pyramid, El Castillo, is a striking example of Mayan astronomy and architecture. The site also includes a large ball court, temples and ceremonial platforms that provide insight into the region's history.

Copper Canyon (Barranca del Cobre)

Located in northern Mexico, Copper Canyon is a vast network of canyons larger and deeper in places than the Grand Canyon. The region is accessible via the scenic Chihuahua al Pacífico Railway, which passes through dramatic landscapes. It is also home to Indigenous communities such as the Rarámuri.

Diving

Mexico is a popular diving destination, with key sites along both the Caribbean coast and the Baja California Peninsula. Cozumel is known for its clear waters and coral reefs, while the cenotes of the Yucatán Peninsula offer distinctive freshwater cave diving. In the Sea of Cortez and around Cabo Pulmo, divers can encounter a wide range of marine life, including sharks, rays and seasonal whale species.

Guadalajara

Guadalajara, Mexico's second-largest city, is often associated with mariachi music and tequila culture. The city has a historic centre with plazas, cathedrals and museums, while the surrounding region includes the town of Tequila, where visitors can tour distilleries and learn about the production process.

Los Cabos

Located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos includes the towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. The area is known for its beaches, desert landscapes and marine life, with activities such as whale watching and sport fishing attracting visitors year-round.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a vast and dynamic capital that blends ancient history with modern urban life. Visitors can explore the historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes the Zócalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the remains of the Aztec Templo Mayor. The city also offers world-class museums, parks and neighbourhoods such as Coyoacán and Roma, each with its own distinct character.

Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve

This UNESCO-listed reserve in central Mexico is the wintering ground for millions of monarch butterflies migrating from North America. Between November and March, forests in the region are filled with butterflies clustering on trees, creating a unique natural spectacle.

Oaxaca

Oaxaca is known for its rich cultural traditions, colonial architecture and regional cuisine. The city's historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring colourful buildings, markets and churches. Nearby, the archaeological site of Monte Albán sits on a hilltop overlooking the valley, offering insight into the Zapotec civilisation.

Palenque

Palenque is a Mayan archaeological site set within dense jungle in the state of Chiapas. Known for its well-preserved temples and intricate carvings, it provides a glimpse into Mayan art and architecture. The surrounding national park adds to its appeal, with tropical vegetation and wildlife.

San Miguel de Allende

This colonial city in central Mexico is known for its well-preserved architecture and artistic community. Its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features cobbled streets, colourful buildings and the distinctive Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. The city has become a popular destination for both domestic and international visitors.

Teotihuacán

Located northeast of Mexico City, Teotihuacán is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Americas. Known for its massive Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon, the ancient city was once a major cultural and economic centre. Visitors can walk along the Avenue of the Dead and take in the scale and symmetry of this pre-Hispanic metropolis.

Tulum

Tulum is a coastal archaeological site where Mayan ruins overlook the Caribbean Sea. The setting is one of the most picturesque in Mexico, combining history with natural beauty. The nearby town has developed into a popular destination with beaches, eco-resorts and a relaxed atmosphere.

Visa and passport information is updated regularly and is correct at the time of publishing. You should verify critical travel information independently with the relevant embassy before you travel.