Mexico travel guide: Where to start your journey?

Planning a trip to Mexico but not sure where to start?

MexicanRoutes is your free online guide to exploring this amazing country with confidence – from major modern cities to hidden gems. Discover detailed travel routes, must-see highlights, and practical tips to help you plan your Mexican journey with ease.

Mexico is made for travelers who want to explore, not just relax. MexicanRoutes don’t sell tours or review hotels – we share local insights and flexible routes so you can build your adventure. Pick a region, dive into a topic, and start planning your ideal trip today.

Start discovering Mexico’s regions here.

What makes Mexico unique?

Mexico’s diversity goes beyond landscapes. Every region has its own customs, dialects, music, and traditions that reflect a deep cultural richness. Whether it’s a Day of the Dead celebration or a local food market, each experience feels authentic and deeply rooted.

The fusion of Indigenous heritage and colonial influence creates a fascinating blend of architecture, festivals, and daily life. Ancient pyramids stand near Spanish churches, while traditional crafts thrive beside modern art scenes in cities and small towns alike.

Learn more about the history of Mexico, its pre-Hispanic heritage, and colonial legacy.

Archaeological sites

Mexico’s archaeological heritage spans thousands of years, with sites scattered across jungles, highlands, and deserts. Travelers can walk among towering pyramids, intricate carvings, and stone plazas that once hosted ancient rituals and royal ceremonies.

Major sites like Monte Albán, Tulum, and Uxmal showcase the brilliance of pre-Hispanic engineering and urban design. But off the beaten path, places like Ek Balam, Toniná, and Yaxchilán offer quiet, immersive encounters with history, often far from crowds.

Explore archaeological sites in Mexico.

Resorts and beaches

Mexico’s coastline stretches across thousands of kilometers, offering warm waters and inviting shores throughout the year. From turquoise Caribbean coves to dramatic Pacific cliffs, every region presents a distinct beach experience for curious travelers.

Resort lovers can enjoy full-service stays in places like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, or Los Cabos, while independent explorers may prefer the laid-back vibe of Sayulita, Mahahual, or Mazunte. Many coastal towns also offer great seafood, local crafts, and cultural festivals.

The full list of Mexican beach resorts.

Nature and reserves

Mexico boasts incredible natural wonders across every corner of the country. From the mysterious depths of cenotes to the power of active volcanoes, its landscapes are breathtaking. Biosphere reserves, waterfalls, and coastal lagoons offer endless beauty and biodiversity.

Eco-tourists will find plenty to explore, whether hiking through dense tropical jungles or wandering across cactus-covered deserts. Mexico’s national parks and protected areas are perfect for spotting rare birds, wildcats, and unique plant species that thrive in diverse ecosystems.

Learn more about the nature and wildlife of Mexico.

Urban tourism

Mexican cities showcase a dynamic fusion of tradition and modernity. From Mexico City’s bustling streets and museums to Guadalajara’s mariachi music and plazas, each urban hub offers a distinct vibe, rooted in history but alive with contemporary culture.

Don’t miss these culturally rich destinations:

• Pueblos Mágicos — magical towns
• Colonial towns and haciendas
• Coastal and fishing villages

Cozy Pueblos Mágicos offer charm with cobbled streets and traditions; colonial towns and haciendas showcase elegant plazas and history; coastal and fishing villages provide scenic views, fresh seafood, and a glimpse into the laid-back rhythms of local life.

Ready to explore?

Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning to uncover more, MexicanRoutes is your gateway to discovering Mexico. Start navigating the country’s rich heritage, natural wonders, and cultural treasures today – and create your unforgettable journey.