Mexico

Mexico has truly captured my heart. After spending a few weeks on the more touristy Caribbean Coast of Mexico a few years ago, I ventured back in 2016 to explore the heart of this grand country. Every city in Mexico is unlike any other and you can travel for weeks and weeks and not see everything. The people and the food alone are worth the visit but you will find many sights and activities to occupy your days. Mexico is a lot different than you might expect!

Mexico travel guides by region

The best starting point depends on whether you want beaches, historic towns, local food or a mix of everything. These Mexico travel guides cover places I’ve visited, with more detailed articles to help you choose a route that suits your time and interests.

Playa del Carmen, Tulum and the Caribbean coast

Playa del Carmen has been my home base for years, so I’ve written plenty about what it’s like beyond the resort areas. Start with my Playa del Carmen travel guide for neighbourhoods, getting around and day trips. If you’re weighing up your options, my Cancún versus Playa del Carmen and Playa del Carmen versus Tulum comparisons explain how the towns differ.

For a few days of exploring, have a look at my things to do in Playa del Carmen and Tulum itinerary guides. They cover beaches, cenotes and activities you can build into your trip rather than trying to see everything at once.

Valladolid and Bacalar

If you’d like a change from the Caribbean beach towns, two days in Valladolid makes room for colonial streets, local sights and nearby cenotes. Further south, Laguna Bacalar is known for its colourful freshwater lagoon. Both are worth considering if you have time to travel beyond your first coastal base.

Oaxaca City and the Pacific coast

I spent two months in Oaxaca City, and it’s still one of my favourite places for food, markets and culture. My guide to the best things to do in Oaxaca includes Monte Albán, local workshops and other experiences. Over on the Pacific coast, I wrote about why a short stop in Mazunte turned into a week by the beach.

Planning your Mexico trip

Before booking too many day trips, work out how long you want to spend in each base. My guide to how many days to spend in Playa del Carmen can help with that decision. If you’re arriving through Cancún Airport, compare your options in my airport-to-Playa del Carmen transport guide before choosing a transfer.

Food is a big part of the reason I love travelling around Mexico. If you eat plant-based food, my Playa del Carmen vegan guide is a useful place to start. For ideas beyond the destinations above, browse my 21 best places to go in Mexico roundup and pick the areas that interest you most.