Mexico is an amazing – and affordable – travel destination and one that should be on everyone’s list. With Cinco de Mayo right around the corner, which is most definitely not to be confused with Mexican Independence Day which falls in September, I thought it’d be fun to highlight some of our favorite travel experiences and the best things to do in Mexico.
Whether you’re creating a Mexico bucket list or simply want to know where to go and what to do on a getaway there, here are our favorite activities in this vibrant and welcoming country.
Top 10 things to do in Mexico
1. Climb the pyramids at Teotihuacan
I love all things Egypt, so when on my first trip to Mexico we went to the pyramids at Teotihuacan, I was ecstatic! I couldn’t wait to see real pyramids in person and the pyramids in Mexico did not disappoint. The climb to the top of the Pyramid of the Sun was a challenge, it is the third largest pyramid in the world, but well worth it for the gorgeous views. Snap some pics of the Pyramid of the Moon and take a stroll down the Avenue of the Dead while in Teotihuacan. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site makes for a great day trip from Mexico City!
2. Discover Chichen Itza
To continue the history-rich tour of Mexico, we have to include a stop in Chichen Itza, the ancient Mayan city. Chichen Itza made the list of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a trip to this amazing archaeological site makes it easy to see why – it’s also no surprise that it’s protected by UNESCO. Imagine what life was like over a thousand years ago as you take in the monuments, pyramids, and remnants of the Mayan-Toltec civilization. See the Temple of Kukulkan or El Castillo, the Warriors’ Temple, and El Caracol.
Can’t make it to Chichen Itza but still want a Mayan ruins experience? No problem. Head seaside and check out Tulum instead. Tulum can easily be checked off the list if you’re coming from an all-inclusive resort or on a cruise ship.
3. The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco
It’s different, it’s fun, and it’s a great way to check a few things off your to do list in Mexico City! While cruising down the waterway on our trajinera, we got to enjoy the music of Mariachi bands as they floated on adjacent boats, I got some fantastic souvenirs, and we enjoyed a neat ride on the canals through what’s affectionately known as the Venice of Mexico.
4. Sneak away to Guanajuato
There are many small cities and towns to visit in Mexico, but I think one of the most charming is Guanajuato. It’s impossible to not love the colorful city, the friendly locals, and relaxed ambiance this area enjoys. Let out your inner Romeo or Juliet in the Callejon del Beso (Alley of the Kiss), where the buildings are so close you could kiss your neighbor, view the mummies at the Museum of the Mummies of Guanajuato, or catch a performance at Teatro Juarez. This safe town is a pleasure to visit, offers unique things to do and cultural events, and isn’t overrun with other tourists.
5. Explore Xcaret Park
Staying in Tulum, Cancun, or the Maya Riviera? You can easily get to Xcaret Park for a day of fun, and history. This theme park focuses on preserving the natural spaces of this region and sharing Mexican history and culture with visitors. There’s no shortage of things to do in Xcaret, like exploring the underground rivers, wine tasting in the Mexican wine cellar, touring a 19th-century Mexican mansion, seeing a Mayan village, uncovering the archaeological sites, and even enjoying some cultural performances.
6. Scuba diving in Cozumel
Snorkeling and scuba diving are incredible off the coastlines of Mexico, but the diving is exceptional in Cozumel. This enchanting area has plenty of fun activities on land, but the underwater world is where it’s at. Snorkel over vibrant reefs, swim with tropical fish, and discover the underwater habitats off of Mexico. If you’re certified, take it to the next level and go scuba diving for a deeper exploration.
7. Go for a swim in a cenote
What’s a cenote? It’s a natural sinkhole that forms when a cave collapses, and they’re pretty cool to take a dip in. Cenote also means sacred well, and was a water source for the Mayans. We saw tours for cenote swims all over Tulum, Cancun, and the Riviera Maya, and it’s a pretty neat experience – do not forget your waterproof camera!
8. Lucha Libre
Amazing costumes, a crazy crowd, and a quintessential Mexican cultural experience await when you check out lucha libre. Even if you don’t like wrestling, seeing one live show is one of the best things to do in Mexico – and don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to create your own mask by the end of the night.
9. Release a turtle in Manzanillo
Manzanillo is a safe, welcoming city on the coast in Colima. It’s remote, meaning it’s perfect for a quiet, relaxing getaway in Mexico. Manzanillo is also home to turtle hatchling releases, where volunteers and marine biologists help to safely get the baby sea turtles back to the waters and away from predators. Most releases are from late August to early October, and it’s an unforgettable experience watching these baby turtles flap their way across the sand and back to their home. Check with El Tortugario, the ecological center, as they’ve been known to host turtle release events.
10. Taste test tequila and tacos
Tequila is the name of an actual town in Mexico and its popular signature drink is practically synonymous with Mexico. Tequila is a mezcal, but is specifically made from blue agave, and trying this specialty distilled beverage is a must-do in Mexico. Even better, you can take your taste test on the road – or train tracks as it were. Hop aboard the Tequila Express in Guadalajara and enjoy live mariachi music and samples, and then stop at the Herradura distillery.
Whether you only check off one or two of these awesome things to do in Mexico on your next trip or decide to be ambitious and hit them all, you’re sure to have a spectacular time. Tell us your favorite things to do in Mexico in the comments or on Twitter!
