Mexico welcomed over 42.15 million tourists last year, and I can see why. This country has an incredible mix of history, nice coastlines, and lively cities. Planning a Mexico travel itinerary can feel huge with so many options. That’s why I’ve put together this list of my personal favorites.
These are the essential things to do in Mexico for a memorable journey.
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Things to Do in Mexico
1. Stand in the Zócalo
The Zócalo is the huge main square in the center of the city. It’s the heart of Mexico’s cultural and political life, and I felt that energy. Grand buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral surround the square. It’s the perfect starting point for any Mexico City travel plan. I found it was a great place to just watch the city go by.
- Special Feature: One of the largest public squares in the world.
- Where to Stay: Centro Histórico, Ciudad de México, CDMX
- Hours: Open 24/7, though surrounding buildings have set hours.
- Hidden Gem: Watch the daily flag ceremony in the morning or evening.
2. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral
On the north side of the Zócalo is this massive cathedral. I was really impressed by its mix of architectural styles. The construction took over 250 years to complete. Inside, the ornate golden decorations are really something to see. It’s one of the best places to visit in Mexico for history lovers.
- Special Feature: A blend of Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical architecture.
- Where to Stay: República de Guatemala 10, Centro Histórico, CDMX
- Hours: Verify on the official site.
- Hidden Gem: Look for the sinking foundation, visible in its tilt.
3. The Palacio de Bellas Artes
This building is an architectural masterpiece, both inside and out. I loved its gleaming white marble exterior and Art Nouveau style. It houses art exhibitions, ballet performances, and operas.
Even just seeing it from the outside is a highlight of any Mexico City travel.
The building looks especially good when it’s lit up at night.
- Special Feature: Its stunning Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture.
- Where to Stay: Av. Juárez S/N, Centro Histórico, CDMX
- Hours: Verify on the official site.
- Hidden Gem: Go to the cafe on the 8th floor of the Sears across the street for a great view.
4. Go to Chapultepec Castle
Perched on a hill in Chapultepec Park, this castle offers great city views. It has served as a royal residence and a presidential home. Today, it’s home to the National Museum of History.
I found that the question of whether Mexico is safe to travel is easily answered in big parks like this.
The walk up the hill to the castle is quite pleasant.
- Special Feature: The only royal castle in North America that was actually used as a residence.
- Where to Stay: Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, CDMX
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays).
- Hidden Gem: The stained-glass windows depicting Greco-Roman goddesses are beautiful.
5. See the National Museum of Anthropology
This is often called one of the world’s greatest museums, and I agree.
It holds treasures like the famous Aztec Sun Stone. You can see countless artifacts from Mexico’s pre-Columbian past. If you want to understand Mexico’s deep cultural roots, start here.
It’s one of the best places to visit in Mexico for a history lesson.
- Special Feature: Home to the Stone of the Sun (the Aztec calendar stone).
- Where to Stay: Av. Paseo de la Reforma s/n, Polanco, CDMX
- Hours: Verify on the official site.
- Hidden Gem: The outdoor gardens recreate historical settings from different regions.
6. Float Through Xochimilco
Riding a colorful boat, called a trajinera, was a really fun experience. You float along ancient canals while vendors in other boats pass by. You can buy food, drinks, and even hire a mariachi band on the water. It’s a festive, lively atmosphere unlike anything else. This is one of the most unique things to do in Mexico, I would recommend.
- Special Feature: Colorful trajinera boats floating along historic canals.
- Where to Stay: Xochimilco, 16000 Ciudad de México, CDMX
- Hours: Boats typically run from morning until early evening.
- Hidden Gem: Go on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds for a more relaxed trip.
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7. The Teotihuacan Pyramids
This is a day trip, about an hour outside of the city. These pre-Aztec pyramids are truly impressive to see in person. I walked along the Avenue of the Dead to the Pyramid of the Sun.
The scale is huge, and the history is mysterious and interesting. It’s a must for any Mexico travel itinerary.
- Special Feature: The massive Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon.
- Where to Stay: San Juan Teotihuacán, State of Mexico
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
- Hidden Gem: Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and the midday heat.
8. Go to Coyoacán and the Frida Kahlo Museum
The Coyoacán neighborhood feels like a small village within the big city. Its main attraction is the Frida Kahlo Museum, also called the Blue House. This is where the artist was born and lived, and I loved seeing her world. The area has cobblestone streets and colorful markets.
It’s a great part of my Mexico City travel memories.
- Special Feature: The bright blue house (Casa Azul) of artist Frida Kahlo.
- Where to Stay: Coyoacán, 04000 Ciudad de México, CDMX
- Hours: Museum hours vary; book tickets online well in advance.
- Hidden Gem: The Mercado de Coyoacán is great for trying local tostadas.
9. Wander Through the Roma Neighborhood
Roma is a trendy and relaxed neighborhood filled with nice architecture. I enjoyed walking through its leafy parks and seeing the stylish cafes. There are lots of small boutiques and great places to eat.
It’s a perfect area to slow down and just enjoy the city vibe. The area feels very walkable, which helps answer whether Mexico is safe to travel.
- Special Feature: Beautiful Art Deco architecture and tree-lined streets.
- Where to Stay: Colonia Roma Norte, Cuauhtémoc, CDMX
- Hours: Shops and cafes have their own hours; the neighborhood is always open.
- Hidden Gem: Check out Mercado Roma for gourmet food stalls in a modern setting.
10. The Angel of Independence
This monument is on the grand Paseo de la Reforma boulevard. The street is lined with skyscrapers and trees, which is a nice contrast. The Angel of Independence has become a famous symbol of modern Mexico. It’s a great spot for photos and a central point in the city. It is one of the best places to visit in Mexico‘s capital.
- Special Feature: An iconic victory column topped by a golden angel.
- Where to Stay: Paseo de la Reforma, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, CDMX
- Hours: The monument is visible 24/7.
- Hidden Gem: On Sundays, Paseo de la Reforma often closes to cars for cyclists and pedestrians.
11. The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe
This is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Catholic world. Millions of people visit the Basilica every year. The modern basilica next to the old one is architecturally interesting.
The plaza offers good views of the city from its location. I found it to be a key cultural site for Mexico City travel.
- Special Feature: The original cloak of Juan Diego featuring the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
- Where to Stay: Villa Gustavo A. Madero, 07050 Ciudad de México, CDMX
- Hours: Verify on the official site.
- Hidden Gem: The gardens on the hill behind the basilica are a quiet place for reflection.
12. The Ruins of Chichen Itza
This ancient Mayan city is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The main pyramid, El Castillo, is perfectly designed with the seasons in mind. Seeing it is one of the top things to do in Mexico. I recommend getting a guide to explain the history of the site. The whole complex is large, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Special Feature: The Kukulkan Pyramid (El Castillo) and its astronomical alignment.
- Where to Stay: Tinum, Yucatan, Mexico
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
- Hidden Gem: Many tours combine a visit here with a swim in nearby cenotes in Yucatán.
13. The Tulum Ruins
What makes the Tulum ruins so special is their location. They are set on a cliff overlooking the beautiful Caribbean Sea. The contrast of the old stone against the turquoise water is really nice.
After seeing the ruins, you can walk down to the beach below. It’s an easy day trip from many Cancún resorts and Playa del Carmen.
- Special Feature: A well-preserved Mayan walled city located directly on the coast.
- Where to Stay: Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
- Hidden Gem: A small beach below the ruins is accessible for a quick swim.
Travel Basics & Tips
- Altitude in Mexico City can be tiring; take it easy on your first day.
- Bring cash (pesos) for small shops and street food vendors.
- Book tours for popular things to do in Mexico in advance.
- Beyond the nice Mexico all-inclusive resorts, try to get out and see the local culture.
- Use ride-sharing apps in cities; they are generally safe and affordable.
- Always drink bottled water, even in hotels and restaurants.
Conclusion
From ancient pyramids to modern city life, Mexico offers so much. This list covers some of the country’s most iconic and beautiful spots. The sheer diversity of landscapes and cultures is what makes a trip here so memorable. I hope this guide helps you plan your own journey. No matter which of these 13 things to do in Mexico you choose, I’m sure you’ll have a great time. It’s a country that always makes me want to come back.
