Top 10: The Best Cities to Visit in Mexico (Updated 2025)

One of the most popular countries to visit in the world, Mexico offers an abundance of rich experiences for all different types of travelers. Whether you’re in search of a resort holiday in a cute beach town or an urban escape to a big city, Mexico has what you need in spades. What’s more, no matter where you are, you’re sure to have incredible cuisine and rich cultural experiences at your doorstep. Of course, each city in Mexico offers something unique, so today at Civitatis, we’re going to go through our picks for the 10 best cities to visit in Mexico, so that you can find the best one for you! ¡Vamos!

1. Mexico City

Where better to start than the capital of Mexico, and once the capital of New Spain, Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico in Spanish, often shortened to CDMX). This historic, cultural city has been witness to centuries of fascinating history. From its founding as the Aztec city of Tenochtitlán to the arrival of Cortez and the Conquistadores, Mexico City breathes history on each and every corner. Start your adventure in the city at the city’s main square, Plaza de la Constitución, often referred to as el Zócalo, featuring various examples of gorgeous colonial architecture, including the National Palace, which you can enter for free to see stunning Diego Rivera murals.

Another must-visit area is Coyoacán, an important area during the Colonial era, which later became home to Frida Kahlo. Today, Coyoacán is one of the coolest neighborhoods in the city—check out the old Town Hall, the Centennial Garden, and La Casa Azul, the Kahlo family home. Check out this area on this free walking tour of Coyoacán. Or, visit the Frida Kahlo Museum + Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum!

To get an insight into the Aztec past of the city, visit the ruins of the Templo Mayor, the centerpiece of the city of Tenochtitlán, dating back to 1325. Another absolute must is this day trip to Teotihuacán—this ancient city long predates Tenochtitlan, located around 30 miles (48 kilometers) northeast of Mexico City today. Once the largest city in the Americas, the origins of Teotihuacán are unclear, though it is known that the Aztecs believed this to be the birthplace of the gods. For further insight into the ancient origins of Mexico City, visit the Anthropological Museum or enjoy a guided tour to discover the world’s largest collection of Mexican art.

There is so much more to see in the city, from Chapultapec Castle to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, to a Lucha Libre show at the Arena México. However, there’s also plenty to do just outside of the city, like the aforementioned Teotihuacán, the city of Puebla (more on that later), Tepoztlán… check out our definitive list of the best day trips from Mexico City for more!

• Check out more tours & activities in Mexico City with Civitatis.

2. Oaxaca

Next up on our list, we’re heading south from Mexico City to the glorious city of Oaxaca, the culinary and cultural capital of Mexico. This fairly compact city is full of bustling markets, gorgeous colonial architecture, cultural activities, and what’s more, its city center is easily walkable. We recommend checking out this Oaxaca free walking tour to get a feel for the city upon arrival. Accompanied by your expert guide, you’ll see some of Oaxaca’s greatest landmarks, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, Santo Domingo Church, the Pre-Hispanic Art Market of Mexico, and Sanchez Pascuas Market, and learn all about the role these places have played in the epic history of the city.

That said, for us, visiting Oaxaca is really about its incredible cuisine, from basic street stalls to fancy restaurants; this city has delicious food at every corner. Sample the spicy, rich mole oaxaqueño, freshly made tamales, and traditional Memelas—a thick corn tortilla served with beans, salsa, guac, sometimes mole, and cheese. This dish has its origins in pre-Hispanic cuisine and is an absolute must-try in Oaxaca. With Civitatis, you can learn to make traditional Oaxacan dishes at a cooking class—go to the local market accompanied by your instructor, pick up fresh ingredients, make some of these dishes, and taste them yourself!

• Check out more tours & experiences in Oaxaca with Civitatis.

3. Puerto Vallarta

Heading to the Pacific Coast now, Puerto Vallarta is another of the most popular cities in the country. Located in the state of Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta came to prominence as a tourist destination in the 1960s, becoming a hotspot for Mexican and American travellers in search of a warm, sandy escape. Today, this beach paradise also features brilliant restaurants, shopping options, and a picturesque malecón (boardwalk).

For nature lovers, Puerto Vallarta might just be your best bet. Enjoy the area’s incredible beaches (check out this hidden beaches hike + snorkelling in Colomitos activity), of which our favorite is the beautiful Boca de Tomatlán beach (pictured below). If you’re looking for something even more adventurous, head up the mountains on this Sierra Madre adventure tour, which includes rappelling, ziplining, and horseback riding, or this Sierra Madre quad bike tour.

When in Puerto Vallarta, you have to get out on the open water—check out this sunset cruise, which includes a show with dance and acrobatics!

• Check out more tours & experiences in Oaxaca with Civitatis.

4. Guadalajara

Another more urban escape, the rich colonial city of Guadalajara is a cultural capital credited with the creation of a number Mexico’s most iconic traditions from tequila to mariachi music to sombreros. In fact, the image of Mexico that would come to most people’s minds is based on portrayals of Jalisco, and specifically its capital city of Guadalajara.

The Guadalajara Cathedral, a majestic structure whose construction spanned several centuries, showcases an intriguing blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical elements. Equally compelling is the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres, a revered monument dedicated to the illustrious figures who have shaped the state’s history, as well as the neoclassical Degollado Theatre, which continues to be a beacon for performing arts and cultural events. Also check out the Hospicio Cabañas, one of the oldest orphanage and hospital complexes in the Americas, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can see and learn about lots of Guadalajara’s main sights on this free walking tour of Guadalajara.

Additionally, Guadalajara is renowned for its traditional charreada, a rodeo that offers a thrilling glimpse into Mexico’s rural heritage. Experience the excitement and tradition firsthand on this charreada tour with Civitatis!

• Check out more tours & experiences in Guadalajara with Civitatis.

5. Mazatlán

Next up on our list of the best cities to visit in Mexico, we have the Pacific paradise of Mazatlán, an emerging destination that has earned itself the title of the ‘Pearl of the Pacific’. Mazatlán boasts miles of golden beaches, as well as the longest boardwalk in all of Latin America. The Malecón, which stretches 13 miles (21 kilometers) from Valentino’s complex in Zona Dorada to Playa Olas Altas, is a perfect place to walk or run as you enjoy the Pacific Ocean views or the evening sunset.

There’s plenty to do in Mazatlán. Check out the city’s sights on a pulmonia tour of Mazatlán… wait, what’s a Pulmonia? This adapted Volkswagen Beetle is a design unique to Mazatlán, created as an alternative to rickety, 3-wheeled Tuk Tuks that used to dominate the city streets. Today, this golf cart/car hybrid is somewhat of a symbol of the city. What’s more, you can see some of Mazatlán’s most famous sights along the way, including the Cathedral, Ángela Peralta Theatre, Machado Square, and Mazatlán Lighthouse.

If you want to get more adventurous, delve into the jungles of Mazatlán and along the tranquil coastline on this horse riding in Mazatlán activity. Another must in Mazatán is a visit to its aquarium, which features an incredible number of species from the Gulf of California, one of the most biodiverse seas in the world. You could also check out this tour of Mazatlán, which includes a ticket to the aquarium.

• Check out more tours & experiences in Mazatlán with Civitatis.

6. Guanajuato

Step into the vibrant, winding streets of Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage city famed for its colorful facades, underground tunnels, and rich mining history. What’s more, Guanajuato is often referred to as the most beautiful city in Mexico. In Guanajuato’s fairly compact city center, you can explore on foot maze-like alleyways, ornate churches (Templo de la Compañia, Basilica of our Lady of Guanajuato), and lively plazas (Jardin de la Union, Plaza San Fernando) with street performers and local vendors coming together to create a festive and authentically Mexican atmosphere.

There is so much beautiful art and architecture in this city. Check out the Juárez Theater, the Church of San Diego, and Plaza San Roque, home to the Alhóndiga de Granaditas—a grain storage facility, converted into a local museum. Another must in the city is the Monumento a la Paz, a beautiful sculpture built to commemorate the end of the Mexican War of Independence. You can see all of this and more as part of this Guanajuato walking tour with Civitatis.

Just beyond the city, you’ll discover breathtaking natural landscapes waiting to be explored. On this Guanajuato hiking tour, an expert guide will lead you through stunning spots like La Bufa Hill, the Sierra de Santa Rosa, and the Presa de la Purísima, where you’ll experience the beauty of Guanajuato’s expansive nature up close.

• Check out more tours & experiences in Guanajuato with Civitatis.

7. San Cristobál de las Casas

San Cristobál de las Casas is a quaint city in the highlands of the southern state of Chiapas, sitting at an elevation of over 7,000 feet (2,100 meters). In recent years, this city has become a hub for backpackers and digital nomads, for its low cost of living, lovely charm, fantastic food, and good internet speed. This city, commonly known as ‘San Cris’, is a colonial gem but is also bursting with Indigenous culture. Speaking of which, one of our favorite things to do while in San Cristóbal is to go on a tour of the local villages of Chamula and Zinacantán, two towns of significant indigenous heritage.

On this San Cristobal de las Casas private tour, you’ll learn the complete history of the city, from its founding as a colonial city in 1528 to the influence of indigenous Tlaxcalteca and Maya people. You’ll also stop off at the city’s main landmarks, from the 31 de Marzo square to the El Carmen Church, to San Cristobal Martyr’s Cathedral. Also, be sure to ask your guide for some suggestions for places to eat/bars to check out in the evening!

If you want to enjoy Mexico’s nature, around San Cristobal you’ll find the stunning Sumidero Canyon, a natural wonder with walls as high as 13,000 feet (4,000 meters), as well as lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. On this Sumidero Canyon + Chiapa de Corzo tour, you’ll see Sumidero for yourself and perhaps even encounter pelicans, spider monkeys, and crocodiles along the way. You’ll also visit Chiapa de Corzo, a charming colonial city known for its narrow, winding streets, gastronomy, and colonial architecture.

• Check out more tours & experiences in San Cristobál de las Casas with Civitatis.

8. Puebla

Puebla is a city that is often visited as a mere day trip from Mexico City. However, it’s well worth at least a few days! A true colonial city, Puebla is seen as the cradle of the style of Mexican Baroque. Stroll through its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the stunning Talavera-tiled facades of colonial mansions. The city is punctuated by iconic landmarks such as the Zócalo (main square), Puebla Cathedral (check out this Puebla Cathedral guided tour), and the Palafoxiana Library. You can see these landmarks and much more as part of a free tour of Puebla.

If you love food, you’ll love Puebla! This city has a wondrous gastronomic heritage—sample the famous mole poblano, a chili and chocolate curry which originated in Puebla. Also, try chiles en nogada, meat-stuffed chiles that are absolutely to die for.

If you’re staying in Puebla, a visit to Cholula is a must. The Great Pyramid of Cholula, the star of this archeological site, is the largest pyramid in the world measuring 166,538,400 ft³ (3.3 million m³)—in fact, this also makes this pyramid the largest monument ever constructed.

• Check out more tours & experiences in Puebla with Civitatis.

9. Cancun

A world-renowned destination, Cancun is one of the most popular destinations to visit in Mexico, synonymous with pristine beaches, bright blue waters, and endless sunshine. Of course, if what you’re looking for is a simple beach resort holiday, Cancun has you covered, but it has so much more to offer! For a more comprehensive list, check out our top 15 things to do in Cancun blog.

Beyond the luxurious resorts and vibrant nightlife (which can be best enjoyed in the famous Coco Bongo nightclub), Cancun is one of the best places from which to discover the Yucatan Peninsula’s ancient Maya wonders. Famously, this peninsula is home to over 6,000 cenotes (natural sinkholes), which were used by the ancient Maya people for ritual purposes. These pools were seen as gateways to the afterlife, a concept you can learn more about as part of this Day of the Dead cenote ceremony.

Also, visit nearby archaeological sites such as El Rey or take a day trip to the breathtaking, cliffside ruins of Tulum, or take this day trip to the legendary site of Chichén Itza, an ancient Maya center that dates back nearly 1,000 years, and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the New 7 Wonders in the World.

Of course, many people’s main reason for visiting Cancun is to enjoy the city’s wonderful beaches: chill out on Playa Delfines, Playa Tortugas (great for families), or Playa Miguelito if you simply want to soak in the sun. Looking for something more? Check out this swimming with sharks experience on Playa Norte, snorkeling in Puerto Morelos, or a speedboat tour on Nichupté Lagoon… the options are endless!

• Check out more tours & experiences in Cancun with Civitatis.

10. Monterrey

Monterrey offers a dynamic contrast between modern urbanity and rugged natural landscapes, with the city surrounded by an incredible mountain view. Founded in 1596 as a small colonial settlement, today Monterrey is one of Mexico’s industrial hubs, featuring striking contemporary architecture and a buzzing cultural scene, from art galleries and museums to live music venues.

Pay a visit to the Macroplaza, one of the largest city squares in the world, measuring a total of nearly 100 acres (40 hectares). This massive square is home to a number of iconic landmarks, perhaps most notably the 230-foot (70-meter) Faro del Comercio, a red ‘lighthouse’ located at the southern point of the square. Also, explore the historic center (barrio antiguo), the trendiest area in the city. See it all and much more on this Monterrey free tour.

We’d also recommend going on a hike while you’re in the city! Delve into the city’s mountainous skyline, which consists of the Sierra Madre Mountains. Here, you can find hiking, rock climbing, and off-road adventures! We’d recommend you check out this hike to Chipinque Ecological Park, one of the best-preserved natural areas near Monterrey.

• Check out more tours & experiences in Monterrey with Civitatis.

There you have it! That’s our list of the top 10 cities to visit in Mexico. There were so many we had to leave out that we would have loved to have included. What did we miss? If you’re looking for more things to do in this incredible country, be sure to check out more tours & experiences in Mexico with Civitatis. ¡Buen viaje!