6 Places to Visit in Mexico Tourists Are Obsessed With
Mexico is a country of incredible beauty where ancient ruins sit beside modern cities, turquoise beaches meet rugged mountains, and every region tells a different story. From lively coastal towns and colorful colonial cities to jungles, deserts, and hidden villages,
Mexico offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or planning a deeper exploration, this guide takes you through the many places that make Mexico one of the most fascinating destinations in the world. Let’s explore everything Mexico has to offer, one place at a time.
1. San Pancho, Nayarit
Riviera Nayarit stunned me – offers a quieter, releaxable, more laid back alternative to Mexico’s larger beach destinations. Tucked along the Riviera Nayarit, this village is known for its relaxed pace, creative community, and uncrowded beaches.
I explored this destination as an ideal tourism spot, slowed down, and experienced a more authentic side of coastal Mexico. Whether you’re interested in surfing, art, local food, or just escaping busy tourist hubs, San Pancho offers a peaceful yet vibrant place to explore.
For travel nearby towns, i took local bus which are the most common and budget friendly option. You may rent a scooter or a bike which can feel easier to travel along.
Location: Riviera Nayarit, (San Pancho) officially known as San Francisco, in the state of Nayarit.
Size: small coastal town.
Vibe: Waves hitting me. As I walked barefoot along the bank of the sea. Beauty of Mexicans 😍 staring at me.
2. The Edward James Sculpture Garden, LAS POZAS
Huasteca Potosina turned out to be one of my favorite hidden gems – Hidden deep in the lush jungles of the Las Pozas is one of Mexico’s most surreal places to visit. Created by British poet and artist Edward James, this extraordinary sculpture garden feels like stepping into a nature .
I walked inside the sculpture garden; everything is explored on foot. Well marked walking paths guide visitors through the jungle and between the sculptures, staircases, and waterfalls.
Transportation here is simple and secondary; the real focus of the visit is slowing down and exploring the site at your own pace.
Location: Located near the small town of Xilitla, Huasteca Potosina, Las Pozas (Edward James, Sculpture Garden.)
Size: The The Edward James Sculpture Garden (Las Pozas) covers approximately 37 hectares (about 91 acres), spread through dense jungle, waterfalls, and elevated walkways.
Vibe : Like a calm greenery of architecture.
My Recommendation…
- The best time to visit The Edward James Sculpture Garden (Las Pozas) is during the dry season, from November to April.
- Plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours exploring the site, as the layout encourages wandering and discovery.
3. Chichen Itza, Yucatan
Chichen Itza completely shocked me – one of the most famous and historically archaeological sites in Mexico, offering a glimpse into the world of the ancient Maya civilization. Located in the Yucatán Peninsula, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is best known for El Castillo, the iconic pyramid that dominates the complex and has become a symbol of Mexico.
As i walked through the ruins, I learned how it was once a political and religious center. I walked through the Chichen Itza is inspiring and humbling, Great Ball Court, Temple of the Warriors, and Sacred Cenote all revealed how deeply ritual, astronomy,
Getting to Chichén Itzá was easier than I expected. I traveled on a ADO bus to the site there from a nearby city. Making it a good option if you prefer traveling independently on a budget. I paid 35$ for the entry fee at the El Castillo Pyramid.
Size: Approx. 10 km
Location: North Yucatan Peninsula
Vibe: Ancient Civilization
My Recommendation…
- Dive in Cenote Ik Kil – I walked down stone steps into a huge open-air cavern and swam in cool, clear emerald water beneath dangling vines that smelled of fresh earth.
4. Isla Espiritu Santo
Isla Espíritu Santo felt like escaping to a completely untouched world – I arrived, I was struck by how raw and pristine everything looked turquoise water, dramatic red rock cliffs, and quiet beaches. A UNESCO-listed island .
I stayed in La Paz. I was part of a group tour that took one to two hours of boat. Highlights; for me was snorkeling in the crystal clear water alongside tropical fish and even playful sea lions. Swimming so close to wildlife in their natural habitat was both thrilling and humbling.
Size: Approx. island 80–90 km²
Location: Gulf of California near La Paz, Baja California Sur
Vibe: Mini paradise , Wildlife; Dolphins, SeaTurtles, Sharks etc.
My Recommendation…
- Best time to visit Isla Espíritu Santo is from October to May. In these months, the weather is warm the sea is calmer, and conditions are ideal for boat trips, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing.
- March to May is especially popular for clear water and abundant marine life.
- Summer months (June to September) can be very hot, and rougher seas or occasional storms may limit access, so they’re generally less ideal for visiting.
5. Progreso (Yucatan State)
One of those places that surprised me – I took a short trip from Mérida, this laid back coastal town felt refreshingly local and unpolished compared to Mexico’s more commercial beach destinations.
I spent most of my time walking along the malecón, where locals fished, families gathered, and beachside restaurants served fresh seafood just steps from the water. The beach itself was calm and shallow, with warm Gulf waters that made swimming easy and relaxing.
Public transport options are frequent and easy to use, even if you’re visiting for the first time.
Size: The city boasts a pier that is 6.5 km (4.1 mile) long.
6. Merida (Yucatan State)
Mérida instantly felt like a city where history and everyday life blend seamlessly. I was surrounded by elegant colonial buildings, colorful facades, and lively plazas filled with music and conversation. Despite being a capital city, Mérida felt calm, welcoming, and easy to navigate.
I spent hours wandering around Plaza Grande, popping into museums, churches, and local markets. One of my favorite experiences was strolling along Paseo de Montejo, where grand mansions tell stories of the city’s wealthy past. In the evenings, the city came alive with free cultural events—traditional music, dance performances, and open-air gatherings that made me feel truly connected to local life.
Vibe: beaches, cenotes, and ancient ruins. It felt both vibrant and grounding