Find your holiday
Mexico holidays bring together beach resorts, ancient sites and warm weather throughout the year.
Caribbean coastlines
Mexico’s Caribbean coast runs along the Yucatán Peninsula, with some of the country’s most popular beach bases. Cancun is a good choice if you want a lively hotel zone and easy access to daytrips, while Playa del Carmen puts restaurants, beach clubs and the ferry to Cozumel close by. Further south, Tulum offers a slower pace, with Mayan ruins, cenotes and coastal scenery nearby. You’ll also find coral reefs, islands and protected nature areas if you want to mix beach time with days out.
Mayan history and culture
Mexico's Mayan history can still be seen across the country, from world-famous archaeological sites to ancient cities hidden in the jungle. Chichén Itzá is one of Mexico’s best-known archaeological sites, with El Castillo at its centre. On the coast, Tulum’s ruins sit above the Caribbean Sea, while Cobá offers jungle-covered temples and ancient stone paths further inland. Beyond the archaeological sites, you'll find colourful colonial towns, local markets and traditional crafts that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you're exploring centuries-old landmarks or learning about local customs, there's plenty to discover away from the beach.
Celebrations and local flavours
Food and festivals are woven into everyday life across Mexico. Tacos, tamales, ceviche and slow-cooked regional dishes can be found everywhere from street food stalls to family-run restaurants, while fresh ingredients like chillies, corn, avocado and lime feature heavily in local cooking. Mexico is also known for colourful celebrations such as Día de los Muertos, where communities come together to honour loved ones through music, food and vibrant displays. Throughout the year, you'll hear mariachi music in town squares, discover local markets selling regional specialities and experience traditions that vary from one part of the country to the next.
Best places to stay in Mexico
Cancun
Cancun is one of Mexico's best-known beach destinations, with long stretches of sand, clear Caribbean waters and a wide range of hotels. The Hotel Zone is packed with resorts, restaurants and nightlife, while boat trips and nearby islands make it easy to explore beyond the beach.
Mexico City
This capital city combines historic landmarks, world-class museums and neighbourhoods packed with cafés, markets and restaurants. Visit sites like the Zócalo and Chapultepec Park, explore colourful districts such as Coyoacán and Roma, and experience a different side of Mexico away from the beach resorts.
Riviera Maya
Riviera Maya covers a long stretch of Mexico’s Caribbean coast, with resort areas suited to beach-focused stays and day trips. It works well if you want easy access to snorkelling, cenotes, nature reserves and Mayan sites without having to move between resorts.
Tulum
Tulum combines Caribbean beaches with natural scenery and historic sights. The town is known for its clifftop Mayan ruins, nearby cenotes and laidback atmosphere. It's a popular choice for travellers looking for a slower pace while still having easy access to the coast.
Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is a good base if you want beach time with plenty nearby. The town has restaurants, shops and bars close to the coast, plus ferry links to Cozumel and easy access to cenotes and Mayan sites.
Playa Mujeres
Just north of Cancun, Playa Mujeres offers a quieter coastal setting with long sandy beaches and a collection of modern resort hotels. It's a popular choice for travellers looking for easy access to Cancun's attractions.
Playacar
Located just south of Playa del Carmen, Playacar is a gated resort area known for its palm-lined beaches, golf courses and All Inclusive hotels. It combines a quieter beach setting with easy access to the restaurants, shops and nightlife of Playa del Carmen.
Puerto Morelos
Puerto Morelos has a slower pace than many of the Riviera Maya's larger resorts. This fishing town is known for its laidback atmosphere, colourful town square and nearby coral reef, which forms part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. It's a good option if you're looking for a more relaxed base on Mexico's Caribbean coast.
Mexico highlights
ANCIENT RUINS
Explore centuries of history at Mayan sites such as Chichén Itzá, Tulum and Cobá.
ISLAND ESCAPES
Swap the mainland for Caribbean islands like Cozumel and Isla Mujeres, known for their beaches and clear waters.
MUSIC AND FESTIVALS
From mariachi performances to colourful celebrations, music and traditions are part of everyday life across Mexico.
NATURAL WONDERS
Discover cenotes, coral reefs and tropical landscapes that offer plenty to explore beyond the beach.
Your guide to Mexico
Sightseeing
Mexico has a great, ancient history, so there are more than a few famous sites to tick off.
Chichen Itza, Yucatán – Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. It was once an iconic Mayan city and features the famous pyramid, El Castillo. The architecture was super advanced for its time, also including the Great Ball Court and the Sacred Cenote.
Teotihuacan, near Mexico City – AKA, the ‘City of the Gods’. This ancient city near Mexico City was the old Aztec capital and one the first great cities of the Western Hemisphere – it was bigger than Athens and Rome. It’s best known for the massive Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl.
Tulum Ruins, Tulum – The Tulum Ruins are a stunning Mayan archaeological site on a cliff that overlooks the Caribbean Sea. Go to see El Castillo and its coastal views – it’s one of the few walled cities built by the Mayans.
Frida Kahlo Museum, Mexico City – The Frida Kahlo Museum, or Casa Azul, is the artist’s old home in Mexico City, where she was born, lived and died. You can see her art and personal items on display to understand what influenced her iconic paintings.
Cenote Ik Kil, Yucatán – Cenote Ik Kil is a famous cenote near Chichen Itza, known for its blue waters and hanging vines that turn it into a kind of hidden rainforest. Cenotes are a natural sinkhole filled with fresh water and the name technically means ‘sacred well’. So, it’s a beautiful, natural swimming spot and this one’s about 85-feet deep.
Days on the sand
From island escapes to Caribbean coastlines, these beaches showcase some of Mexico's best stretches of sand.
Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres – Known for its soft sand and shallow turquoise waters, this beach is one of the Caribbean coast's most popular spots, especially with families.
Playa Delfines, Cancun – A long stretch of sand with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea and plenty of space to relax.
Paraiso Beach, Tulum – A scenic beach close to Tulum’s archaeological zone, with palm-lined sand and easy access to the town’s coastal sights.
Playa Palancar, Cozumel – A favourite for snorkelling and swimming, with clear waters and easy access to nearby coral reefs.
Local traditions
From religious celebrations to music festivals, Mexico's calendar offers plenty of opportunities to experience local traditions and culture.
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) – One of Mexico's most famous festivals, featuring colourful altars, parades and celebrations that honour loved ones.
Carnival of Veracruz – One of Mexico's largest carnivals, with parades, live music and street celebrations before Lent.
Cinco de Mayo – Marking Mexico's victory at the Battle of Puebla, this day is celebrated with parades, music and cultural events.
Semana Santa (Holy Week) – A significant religious celebration held in the lead-up to Easter, with processions and events taking place across the country.
International Mariachi Festival, Guadalajara – A celebration of Mexico's best-known musical tradition, with performances from mariachi groups from across the country.
Outdoor activities
From eco-parks to protected reserves, these places show off Mexico’s natural side.
Xcaret Park, Riviera Maya – A popular eco-archaeological park where you can swim in underground rivers, spot wildlife and learn more about Mexican culture and history.
Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, Quintana Roo – A UNESCO-listed reserve with tropical forests, wetlands, wildlife and stretches of Caribbean coastline.
Xplor Park, Riviera Maya – An adventure-focused park featuring zip lines, underground caves and activities set within the jungle.
Places to shop
Find everything from local crafts to designer brands at some of Mexico's best-known shopping spots.
La Isla Shopping Village, Cancun – An open-air shopping centre with international brands, restaurants and waterfront views in Cancun's Hotel Zone.
Mercado 28, Cancun – A popular market where you can browse for handicrafts, jewellery, textiles and traditional Mexican souvenirs.
Fifth Avenue, Playa del Carmen – A lively pedestrian street lined with boutiques, gift shops, cafés and local stores just steps from the beach.
Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela, Mexico City – One of the country’s best-known artisan markets, selling handmade pottery, textiles and crafts from across Mexico.
Local dishes
These are a few Mexican favourites to look out for while you're away.
Tacos – Soft tortillas filled with ingredients such as grilled meat, fish, vegetables and fresh toppings.
Tamales – Corn dough filled with meat, cheese or vegetables, wrapped in corn husks and steamed.
Quesadillas – Folded tortillas filled with cheese and a range of savoury ingredients.
Cochinita Pibil – A Yucatán speciality of slow-roasted pork marinated in citrus juices and spices.
Quick snacks
Street food is a big part of everyday life in Mexico, with different regions offering their own specialities.
Elote – Grilled corn on the cob topped with cheese, chilli and lime.
Tostadas – Crisp tortillas topped with seafood, meat, beans or fresh salads.
Churros – Fried dough pastries coated in sugar and often served with chocolate sauce.
Tlacoyos – Oval-shaped corn cakes stuffed with beans, cheese or other fillings and cooked on a griddle.
Esquites – A popular snack made with sweetcorn kernels, lime, cheese and chilli seasoning.
Local sips
From refreshing soft drinks to traditional spirits, these are some of Mexico's best-known beverages.
Tequila – Mexico's famous spirit, produced from blue agave and enjoyed across the country.
Mezcal – A smoky agave spirit traditionally produced in regions such as Oaxaca.
Mexican beer – Popular brands such as Corona, Modelo and Pacifico are widely available and often enjoyed alongside local dishes and seafood.
Horchata – A sweet drink made with rice, cinnamon and milk.
Agua fresca – A refreshing fruit-based drink commonly made with watermelon, hibiscus or lime.
Evenings out
Whether you prefer beachfront bars, late-night clubs or live music venues, these destinations are well-known for evenings out.
Cancun – Known for its lively Hotel Zone, this area’s home to famous nightlife spots like Coco Bongo, where you can enjoy live music and acrobatic performances. You'll also find plenty of beach clubs dotted along the seafront.
Playa del Carmen – You'll find a more relaxed nightlife scene here, centred around Fifth Avenue. This pedestrianised street is lined with bars, restaurants and live music venues, making it easy to enjoy drinks, dinner and entertainment in one area. Zenzi Beach Bar is a popular spot for sunset drinks.
Mexico City – Mexico City has a wide mix of places to go after dark, from casual cantinas and mariachi venues to polished rooftop bars. Plaza Garibaldi is a popular place to hear live mariachi music, while rooftop spots like Cityzen Rooftop Bar offer views across the city skyline. Neighbourhoods such as Roma, Condesa and Polanco are also packed with restaurants, bars and evening entertainment.
Bus
Buses are one of the most popular ways to travel around Mexico, with routes connecting major cities, beach resorts and smaller towns. They're a more affordable option for longer journeys, and many services offer amenities such as charging points and Wi-Fi.
Plane
Domestic flights are useful for covering longer distances, especially if you're travelling between regions or combining multiple destinations in one trip. They can be more expensive, but you'll save a significant amount of travel time.
Train
Mexico's rail network is limited, but routes such as the Maya Train connect several destinations across the Yucatán Peninsula. You'll also get the chance to enjoy the scenery along the way, making the journey part of the experience.
Car hire
Hiring a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and can be a good option for visiting smaller towns, beaches and attractions away from the main tourist areas.
Why we love Mexico
Here are some top tips from our team
Expert recommendation
“Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen is a good place to spend an afternoon if you fancy a mix of shopping, food and people-watching. There are plenty of shops, from international brands to local boutiques, along with lots of places to eat and drink. I was pleasantly surprised by how good the value was compared to some of the resort areas. Most hotels can help arrange transport there, and it's easy to find a taxi back afterwards.” – Issy Brown
Non-touristy activities
Away from the larger beach resorts, Valladolid offers colourful streets, local markets and a more traditional side of Mexico. Spend time exploring the town's churches, cafés and nearby cenotes at a slower pace.
Free things to do
For a cheap day out, head to Parque Los Fundadores in Playa del Carmen. This seafront park is home to cultural performances, public art and Caribbean views, making it a popular spot to spend an hour or two without any cost.
Popular holiday types
All Inclusive holidays to Mexico
Mexico is a popular choice for All Inclusive holidays, with many resorts along the Riviera Maya and Cancun coast offering meals, drinks and activities as part of your stay. It's a good option if you'd like to keep holiday spending more predictable while making the most of the beaches and hotel facilities.
Family holidays to Mexico
With beach resorts, waterparks and family-friendly attractions, Mexico has plenty to offer travellers with children. Destinations such as Cancun, Playa Mujeres and the Riviera Maya combine sandy beaches with activities that appeal to a range of ages.
Last-minute holidays to Mexico
Mexico is a long-haul destination, so prices can vary depending on flight availability and travel dates. If you’re flexible, last-minute deals can be a good way to find better value, especially outside the busiest travel periods.
Luxury holidays to Mexico
From beachfront resorts in Playa Mujeres to boutique hotels in Tulum, Mexico offers plenty of options for a more luxurious stay. Expect stylish spas, infinity pools, sea-view rooms and dining experiences that make the most of local flavours.
Mexico FAQs
The best time to visit Mexico is between November and April, when conditions are generally drier and temperatures are comfortable in many parts of the country. December through to Easter tends to be the busiest period, particularly in popular beach resorts. If you're travelling on a budget, the months from June to October can offer good value, although some coastal areas experience higher levels of rainfall during this time.
The official currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso (MXN). While some hotels, resorts and tourist areas may accept US dollars, you'll often get better value by paying in pesos. Cash machines and currency exchange services are widely available in most holiday destinations.
It's recommended to drink bottled or filtered water while in Mexico. Most hotels, restaurants and tourist facilities make bottled water easy to access, and many visitors also use it when brushing their teeth. If you're unsure whether ice or fresh produce has been prepared using filtered water, it's worth checking with the venue beforehand.
Lightweight clothing, swimwear and sun protection are essentials for most trips to Mexico. If you're visiting cities such as Mexico City or heading to higher-altitude areas, it's also worth bringing a light jacket or layers for cooler evenings. Comfortable footwear is useful for sightseeing, and insect repellent is recommended if you're visiting jungle areas, nature reserves or coastal regions.
Tipping is common across Mexico and is generally appreciated for good service. In restaurants, many travellers leave around 10-15% of the bill, while hotel staff and tour guides may also receive small tips. Tipping isn't usually expected in taxis, although rounding up the fare is a common way to thank the driver.
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