Latin America is one of the most beautiful places on earth, attracting throngs of travelers who come for the culture and incredible scenery. Mexico is no exception, boasting spectacular sights that are must-sees for any traveler visiting this majestic country. Many of Mexico’s attractions, such as Hierve el Agua Waterfalls and San Luis Potosí, are well-known and often visited. But there are plenty of other lesser-known gems that boast fascinating histories and stunning landscapes. And what’s more, there are lots of affordable luxury hotels to enjoy during a stay.
So, which places should travelers head for when visiting Mexico? Here are ten magical spots that will make for a truly unforgettable experience.
10/10 Chichen Itza
Home to one of the world’s seven wonders, this ancient Mayan city is so spectacularly preserved that it will leave visitors speechless. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is a must-see for travelers looking to explore Mexico’s most incredible Mayan ruins. Among its many fascinating attractions, visitors can tour the Pyramid of Kukulcan — an impressive archeological structure over 24 meters tall — and El Castillo, a temple that was dedicated to Kukulcan. The site gives visitors a glimpse of what life was like thousands of years ago.
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Address:
Yucatán, East Mexico -
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Take a guided tour to explore all the attractions.
9/10 Cancun
An idyllic spot located on the northeast coast of Mexico, this area is known for its white-sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, and world-class resorts. But there’s much more to this destination than just that — it’s also home to some incredible ancient Mayan ruins, as well as fantastic snorkeling and scuba diving spots. Visitors here can explore Tulum, Cobá, or Chichen Itza while also enjoying Cancun’s legendary beaches, including Isla Mujeres.
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Address:
Quintana Roo, Mexico -
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Book a boat tour to explore the nearby islands or visit the Xcaret eco-archeological park.
8/10 Playa Del Carmen
This stunning beach town is located on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula and has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers in recent years. With its vibrant nightlife, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters, it’s no wonder why Playa del Carmen is one of Mexico’s top destinations — not to mention the numerous restaurants, shops, and activities. The best part? Don’t forget to take a day trip to nearby Cozumel Island for some world-class snorkeling and scuba diving.
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Address:
Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo -
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Stay in one of the beachfront hotels or resorts for an unforgettable experience.
7/10 The Copper Canyon
The Copper Canyon is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Mexico and a must-see for adventure seekers. Spanning 25,000 square miles, this rugged canyon land offers great hiking trails and stunning views of the Sierra Madre mountain range. Visitors can take a train journey through the canyon, go horseback riding around the area’s many beautiful lakes, or raft down some of its white water rapids.
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Address:
Copper Canyon, Chihuahua -
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Try a multi-day tour for an unforgettable experience.
6/10 The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve
The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve is a stunning natural area located in Michoacán, Mexico, and it’s home to millions of migrating monarch butterflies that fly south every year from Canada and the United States. Every winter, the butterflies gather in the Oyamel fir forest to keep warm, and visitors can observe their beautiful migration.
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Address:
Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, Michoacán -
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Avoid visiting during the wet season (July-October) as it can make viewing difficult.
5/10 El Arco De Cabo San Lucas
El Arco de Cabo San Lucas is a stunning rock arch formation located on Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the country. Visitors can take a boat tour of the area to get a better look at the famous arch and can also snorkel in the nearby waters to see sea lions, dolphins, and other marine life.
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Address:
El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, Baja California -
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Take a sunset cruise around Cabo San Lucas for breathtaking views of the arch.
4/10 El Zocalo Square
The largest public square in Latin America, El Zócalo, is the heart of Mexico City and is teeming with life at any time of day. The area has several monuments to explore, and visitors can take a walking tour to learn more about the city’s history. Visitors can explore the Aztec ruins near Templo Mayor, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Palace.
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Address:
El Zócalo Square, Mexico City -
Recommended:
Join a guided tour to get a better understanding of the area’s history.
3/10 Palenque Ruins
The ancient Mayan city of Palenque was abandoned centuries ago, but its ruins still remain and can be explored by visitors today. This archeological site offers some of the best-preserved Mayan temples and complex hieroglyphic inscriptions in Mexico and is a must-see for any traveler interested in Mexican history. And for those looking to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area, there are plenty of nearby waterfalls and cenotes.
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Address:
Palenque Ruins, Chiapas -
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Join a tour with a knowledgeable guide for an unforgettable experience.
2/10 Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral
The Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral is the largest and oldest cathedral in the Americas, built in 1573. The building has distinctive Baroque-style architecture, and visitors can take guided tours of its many sculptures, artwork, and holy artifacts. Don’t miss the chance to admire its beautiful stained glass windows or climb up to its bell towers for a breathtaking view of the city.
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Address:
Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral, Mexico City -
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Climb to the bell towers at sunset for a stunning view of the city skyline.
1/10 San Miguel De Allende
San Miguel de Allende is a vibrant colonial-era town located in the heart of Mexico and known for its cobblestone streets, grand plazas, and picturesque churches. Visitors can take a walking tour through the city’s many art galleries, restaurants, bars, and shops or explore the nearby hot springs to relax and unwind. For an even more unique experience, make sure to attend one of the city’s many festivals and events.
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Address:
San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato -
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It’s a great idea to stay in one of the city’s colonial-style hotels for a true San Miguel de Allende experience.
