I’m yet to meet a traveller to Mexico who doesn’t like it. It’s an incredible country, absolutely packed with an enthralling and encapsulating culture. But it’s not just the culture that draws tourists into Mexico: it has amazing nature, delicious food and plenty of parties. Seriously, there are so many things to do in Mexico that ticking off everything on your Mexico bucket list might take years. I’d love to put thousands of things on this list of things to do in Mexico – but I want to make it manageable for you, so I’m limiting it! This Mexico bucket list intertwines the country’s amazing nature, indigenous heritage, food and art scene, and love of sport.
Mexico Bucket List: Things to do in Northern Mexico
Go Wine Tasting at World-Class Wineries in Valle de Guadalupe
Mexico’s Valle de Gudalupe, just a two hour drive south from San Diego, offers wine tasters more than 75 wineries and dozens of varietals to choose from on the Ruta del Vino. This is off-the-beaten path Mexico at its finest: Travel down little dirt roads to world-class restaurants and wineries built by renowned Mexican architects.
The best wineries in Valle de Guadalupe range from established mega wineries making wines for 30 years to boutique upstarts with Instagrammable rooftop bars and open air restaurants. Likewise, choose from inexpensive but gourmet food trucks or reserve a four course wine and food pairing designed by a world-class chef.By Chris from Explore Now or Never
Participate in a Liveaboard on the Sea of Cortez
Mexico is one of the leading countries in ocean conservation efforts, and you can look no further than the northeastern part of Mexico: Baja, California. Here, in between the mainland and the peninsula, lies the Sea of Cortez.
Often called the “Aquarium of the World” due to its marine diversity, the Sea of Cortez is an incredible place to explore. One of the best ways to do that is by booking a trip on the Rocio del Mar liveaboard – an excellent scuba program that will change the way you look at diving in North America.
The diversity of marine life here is overwhelming – you can find anything from massive whale sharks and sperm whales to tiny slug-like creatures called nudibranchs. The gem of the area is the Revillagigedo Archipelago, which was recently added as a UNESCO Heritage Site.By Halef from The RTW Guys
Explore San Jose del cabo art district
Visit the Museum of Mexican History in Monterrey
The most important museum in the north of the country, this exhibition details life in Mexico from pre-Hispanic days to the twentieth century. If you want to learn about the history of the country in great detail, this Monerrey museum is your place.Learn About the Steel Industry
It doesn’t sound all that exciting, but the interactive museum of Horno 3 is one of the best things to do in Monterrey and is a must on your Mexican bucket list. It’s less of a museum and more of an interactive science centre, with lots of details about how steel is made and how pivotal it is to Mexico to this day. Enjoy the history gallery, the the steel gallery, an oven show and a great documentary within the museum.Admire the beautifully illuminated streets of Zacatecas at night
Explore Mina El Eden
One of the most important mines in Mexico is located in Mina El Eden. This is a very historically significant place, that details how much wealth lay underneath the country – and the awful conditions that slaves (generally indigenous people) had to work in for the rich to access the wealth. It’s a dark part of Mexico’s history, but is important for people to know about today. Nowadays, tourists can descend into the mine via miniature train and see the mine first-hand with a guide.Chihuahua
Take the train from Chihuahua to Los Mochis Across Copper Canyon
Taking the train in northern Mexico should be a bucket list experience for any keen Latin American traveller. It’s one of the only rail routes in the country, and it’s a great one. There are two trains that you can take; one is the longer, orignal train and one is a more touristy version. It takes either nine or sixteen hours. But you’ll want to get off and actually explore the canyon, which is larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon in its northern neighbour and is a UNESCO world heritage site. This could take a few days. Read more tips for riding the Copper Canyon train here.Mexico Bucket List: Things to do in Central Mexico
Aguascalientes
Go to the Museum of Death
In European cultures we typically shy away from death, but Mexico embraces it well as a part of life that’s unavoidable for everyone. This is shown through Day of the Dead, and also through the Museum of Death in Aguascalientes. It was started as a way to display the hundreds of artefacts about death that the city’s university had collected over the years. However, it now explores the interesting relationship that Mexico has with death, from the pre-Hispanic era to modern day. It features ancient traditions around Day of the Dead, the popularity of sugar skulls in modern culture, and everything in between!
San Luis Potosí
See the Surreal Structures of Las Pozas
A garden created in the rainforest of Mexico’s Sierra Madres, the beautiful structures of Las Pozas was created by British poet Edward James. They’re a surrealist work of art; different sculptures, towers and other forms of artwork come together to create something really extraordinary.
Guanajuato State
See Traditional Art in San Miguel de Allende
Ceremonial masks have long been a part of the history and culture of Mexico, and a vast collection can be viewed at Another Face of Mexico Mask Museum in San Miguel de Allende. Over a period of more than 25 years, museum owner Bill LeVasseur has curated an assortment of over 500 masks, many of which have been collected from indigenous people throughout the country. Masks ranging from human forms to animal heads adorn the walls of the museum. Another item of note is that every mask throughout the museum has been utilized in a ceremonial dance, which qualifies them as being authentic and collectible. Although it’s a bit off the beaten path, this colorful museum is worth the stop in order to take a peek into the rich history of Mexico. Jennifer Prince from Travel Like a Prince
Climb to the Top of Pípila in Guanajuato
I don’t need to tell you that Guanajuato is a must-visit city in Mexico.
With its cobbled streets and charming old buildings, it’s one of the best examples of Mexican towns and their beauty. But one of the Mexico bucket list activities that should make it onto this list is Pipila, the best viewpoint in the city. Not only does the memorial dedicate itself to Pipila, a heroic miner during the Mexican War of Independence, but it’s home to the best view in town.
So once you’ve explored the narrow alleyways of Guanajuato centre, head up to this vantage point for another perspective of the city. Like most viewpoints, it’s an uphill hike to reach here (funny how that works, isn’t it?). While it’s not too challenging, some people may prefer to take a taxi up there instead – which is completely possible.
Jalisco
Hiking in Puerto Vallarta
Just south of Puerto Vallarta, go hiking along a quiet trail that begins in Boca de Tomatlan and ends at Playa Las Animas; a beautiful beach where you’ll find a small fishing community.
You’ll enjoy sweeping views of the ocean where the Sierra Madre mountain range meets the sea. Along the way, you’ll pass by deserted beaches. Don’t forget to turn and enjoy the views of the city behind you.
Stop and take a dip in the crystal clear waters while watching the wildlife around you.
This moderate hike takes just over two hours and you can reward yourself with a tasty margarita and a sun lounger upon your arrival at Playa Las Animas.
By Rachel from Grateful Gypsies
See an Eerie Cemetery
Panteón de Belén is a 19th century cemetery located in the heart of Guadalajara – the capital of Jalisco, and Mexico’s second largest city. The tombs have been relocated to a different graveyard, but nowadays it stands as a museum, which details its eerie ghost sightings and the grandeur of the buildings and gravestones. The night tours are very popular.
Take the Tequila Express and Explore the Town of Tequila
I don’t even like Tequila, but I’d love a ride on the Tequila Express. The Jose Cuervo is the most common one of these – it’s a two hour journey from Guadalajara to the town of Tequila – where tequila was invented! The train has three tiers, and it’s worth splashing out on the premium plus cabin. There are, of course, tequila cocktails aplenty. The Tequila Herradura Express also operates, with slightly cheaper rates, and also serves up tequila cocktails in a similar setting. Once you’re there, make sure you spend some time seeing the charming town of tequila, which is one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos. Wander the cobbled streets, admire the old buildings and drink as much tequila as you can handle!
Guerrero
Celebrate Semana Santa in Taxco
Celebrating Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Taxco should be on everyone’s Mexico bucket list. Semana Santa celebrations are unique here. Every day from Palm Sunday to Good Friday, nightly processions slowly wind through the steep, narrow streets. Statues of Jesus are carried through town on Palm Sunday, surrounded by hundreds of people carrying ornaments of Jesus woven from palm fronds and flowers.
Then each day or night, dozens and dozens of hooded penitents shuffle through town, bearing heavy loads of thorny sticks, bent double dragging heavy chains or striking their backs with sharp thorns in a gruesome and eerie display of faith and penitence. Veiled women and girls accompany them, waving incense and carrying lit candles. You will be transported back into another century, as these age-old traditions of palms and pain are kept alive each Easter in this tiny hillside town southwest of the capital.
By James from Travel Collecting
Puebla
Explore the Puebla Tunnels
There have been folk tales about tunnels underneath the streets of Mexican cities for centuries.
Recently, one of them turned out to be true – in 2016 a network of passageways were discovered underneath the city of Puebla.
The tunnel system dates back to 1531 and opens up to the Loreto Fort, where the Cinco de Mayo battle happened.
Weaponry – as well as toys and kitchenware – was found in the tunnels. It is believed that the weaponry dated back to the mid-19th century, which is when the Battle of Puebla between Mexico and France took place.
It is believed, therefore, that the tunnels were used by soldiers. Visitors can take a tour to learn about the stories that the historians have uncovered, so far, and the significance of the tunnels on modern-day Puebla.
Mexico Bucket List: Things to do in Mexico City and around
Take Part in a Food Tour
Mexico is well-known for its food, but the actual food that you’ll eat in Mexico is so different from Mexican food you’ll be used to. Fajitas don’t exist, tacos look completely different and nachos loaded with cheddar cheese are a sin. A food tour in Mexico City is the best way to see the cusine of the country; there are tours for every palate. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, there’s no better place to enjoy adapted Mexican food. I took this great vegan food tour in Roma which took me around the best spots to get vegan tacos and more in the city.Go On a Walking Tour of the City Centre
Mexico City’s Centre is full of interesting old buildings, many oozing with character and telling how the magnificent city came to be as it is today. It’s best to enjoy the sights on a walking tour – a guide will tell you everything you need to know about the most famous spots of the area and its rich and diverse history. I took a free walking tour (tips expected) and it was a great way to learn more about the city.Have a Night Out in Condesa
Condesa is one of the most fun spots in Mexico City, and is a thriving nightlife destination. As well as being full of great bars and clubs, it’s also one of the safest areas of the city. Check out Condesa DF for views of the neighbourhood, Artic Bar for the first ice bar in Latin America, have cocktails at Baltra Bar and head to Leonor for dance anthems.Go on a Boat Trip at Xochimilco
The network of canals and floating gardens in Xochimilco are great for a relaxing afternoon on the river; there are plenty of photo opportunities and spots to learn about the area’s heritage. Don’t miss the island of the dolls – a spooky reaction within Xochimilco’s canals and one of the most photographed places in Mexico City.Tour around Frida Kahlo’s House
One of the most famous Mexicans to exist, Frida Kahlo is a legendary artist and feminist icon. Her house in Coyoacán in Mexico City is open for guests (it’s best to book your time online by clicking here) and is full with her art and models that reflect her personality.Watch Lucha Libre
Lucha Libre is the Mexican equivalent of WWE wrestling, but way better! Watching a Lucha Libre match in Mexico City is an experience I’ll never forget. Masked fighters wearing colourful spandex leap around the ring in a spectacular demonstration of athleticism and showmanship, to the sound of hundreds of Mexican spectators yelling support and abuse at their favourite performers. It is great fun to go and watch (especially after a few drinks), and you can even buy your own Lucha Libre mask and emulate your favourite luchador. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but go with an open mind and a sense of fun and you can’t help but enjoy this blend of colourful action and acting!
By Claire from Tales of a Backpacker
Museo Nacional de Antropología
One of the best things to do in Mexico City is without a doubt the Anthropology Museum; it is the largest and most visited museum in the country, and will take you the best part of a day to get around. Many of the collections focus on Indigenous Mexicans, displaying life in pre-Hispanic Mexico and how natives live today. It expertly details how Mexican culture has had influences from the pre-Hispanic era through the mediums of art, writing and historical artefacts. Free guided tours take place, and all the information is written in English and Spanish.Learn About this Spectacular Migration at the Monarch Butterfly Reserve
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Monarch Butterfly Reserve is a protected area that hundreds of millions of monarch butterflies call home during the winter months. They travel here fromthe USA and Canada when the colder weather sets in, flying some 3000 miles or over 4800 kilometres to reach this site in Central Mexico. They stay here all winter and return to the same spot every year. Exactly how they do this is a mystery. Tourists can see the butterflies in certain places of the protected area. It’s possible to do as a day trip from Mexico City, or an overnight trip with a stay in Angangueo.Climb to the top of Nevado de Toluca
This national park is close to Mexico City, and makes an easy day trip from the capital. People come here to hike, see the famous craters and have the chance of seeing snow in Mexico – which is common during the cold winter months. It’s the fourth highest peak in Mexico and it is relatively easy to ascend to the summit. Be sure to pack warm clothes – it’s much colder here than Mexico City!Visit Teotihuacan
These Mexican pyramids could give Cairo a run for its money. Its a UNESCO world heritage site and has 2,000 years of history; they were part of what was once Mesoamerica’s greatest city. You can climb up both the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon and explore lots of ruins. It’s best to hire a local guide (English speaking guides are available) to really get to grips with the history of this impressive attraction.Mexico Bucket List: Things to do in Southern Mexico
Wander Around the Ancient Ruins of Chichen Itza
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World is the old Mayan complex of Chichen Itza.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is certainly no secret but should definitely make it on your list of places to visit in Mexico, particularly if you’re already in Cancun or Tulum as it’s only a couple of hours away.
El Castillo (The Castle) steals the show as its a remarkably intact temple-pyramid but there are tons of other structures in the complex. As with most well-known spots, getting here early and not on a tour is your best bet. Simply rent a car and get here early to avoid the throngs of tour buses flooding in before lunch.
Cycle around the island of Cozumel
Cozumel is a small tropical island off the Yucatan peninsula. Most know it for its white sand beaches and world class diving. A lesser known, but equally worthwhile activity is to bicycle around the entire island. The 65km trail is mostly paved, flat, and can easily be accomplished in a day with time for sightseeing, relaxing on the public beaches of the Eastern shore, and a leisurely lunch. With a small detour you can take in the ancient San Gervasio ruins. Cycling in Cozumel is the perfect way to take in the relaxing island vibe of Cozumel.
Phillip from Zen TravellersGo Diving in Cozumel
Explore The Unique Stucco Sculptures of Ek Balam
Ek Balam is an ancient Mayan site in the state of Yucatan in Mexico. It has an acropolis that you can still climb on, a ball court, and an oval palace – all quite similar to many other ruins in the area. What makes Ek Balam special is the presence of beautiful stucco work that is hard to come by elsewhere. In Ek Balam, under the palapas are preserved intricately carved stucco sculptures from centuries ago. Among these are the figures of winged warriors that have intrigued historians for a long time. Were they angels, Mayan warriors or the influence of a different culture? Nobody knows. Ek Balam provides you with an excellent opportunity to explore this unique aspect of the Mayan civilization. By Soumya from Stories by SoumyaSee the Tulum Ruins
Mexico is full of archaeological ruins left from the Mayan empire that once ruled. One of the most beautiful ruin sites to visit are those in Tulum, a small beach town on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, just an hour drive from Cancun. What makes the ruins at Tulum special is their location. They are the only Mayan ruins built by the ocean, facing the stunning turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. They’re a must-do on any Tulum itinerary!
By Lora from Explore with LoraGet an Adrenaline Boost at Xcaret Park
This Playa Del Carmen Nature Park is full with natural and cultural attractions, including underground rivers and ziplining (it’s the most-visited zipline park in the world, apparently!). There are cultural activities which fuse both Caribbean and Latin culture, Mexican chapels and mansions, a Mayan village and archealogical sites. It’s a must-do day out near Playa del Carmen.Party in Cancun
This is probably the item on this Mexico bucket list that you’ll want to do once… and never again. Cancun’s nightlife is rowdy and pretty tacky, but it has to be seen to be believed. Most popular is Cocos Bongos, one of the best clubs in the world and a place where famous live acts regularly play.Visit Cancun’s Underwater Museum
A great eco-tourism destination, Cancun’s Underwater Museum was established to protect the nearby reefs from over-tourism. It’s an alternative attractiont o reefs that needed some time to recover and was built with hardy and durable material. The museum is home to over 500 statues created by Jason deCaires Taylor, a sculptor from the UK. Visitors can choose whether they wish to see the statues on a glass-bottom boat, by snorkelling or getting close up and personal with them by scuba diving. As well as the statues, visitors can expect to see fish and turtles, making this a prime scuba diving destination.Oaxaca State
Wander Around the Cobbled Streets of Oaxaca
Just admiring the tranquil streets of this Southwestern city is definitely one of the best things to do in Mexico. Tka your time taking it all in; many of the colonial buildings are very nondescript, but look spectacular. There are some fantastic photo opportunities to be had, where you can stand on the cobbles and gaze up at the surrounding mountains.Take A Cooking Class in Oaxaca City
Oaxaca is legendary for its cuisine. However, if you’re vegetarian or vegan, you might be a bit put out by it all. My solution is to take a cooking class. While they aren’t all veggie/ vegan, they do have a main focus on veggies, with the only meat/ animal products involved being cheese and chicken. This makes it very easy to adapt food to suit a harcore herbivore.Celebrate Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca City
Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a famous Mexican celebration. It is held at the start of November every year and one of the best places to celebrate it is in Oaxaca City. Oaxaca is a very traditional city within Mexico, and while this tradition takes place across the whole country, it is especially good in Oaxaca. Enjoy the parades and the festive atmosphere of the streets, admire the altars and maybe even do something special for a deceased loved one. It is also possible to go to the cemeteries and ‘adopt a grave’ – pay respects to someone deceased who hasn’t had their grave decorated and has no visitors. If you do this, obviously, respect the area and the other people in the graveyard, who may be celebrating or grieving.Visit Hierve el Agua
There are plenty of waterfalls in Mexico, but only one frozen waterfall. Hierve el Agua isn’t actually frozen, but it certainly looks like that. Hierve el Agua makes for some great photo opportunities, and there are man-made pools nearby that are great for a swim. It’s also possible to hike around the area, to the top of the waterfalls. Street food in the parking lot and an adventurous journey to get there makes this a worthwhile day trip from Oaxaca City.Go Hiking in the Sierra Madre Mountains
Oaxaca City is beautiful, but getting out into the mountains is a must-do while there; an activity definitely worthy of its spot on this Mexico bucket list. Eight towns in Oaxaca are registered as Pueblos Mancomunados and have an eco-tourism programme in place, where visitors stay with minimum impact and give money back to the local area. As these Pueblos are some of the poorest in the country, this is well needed. You can choose from a DIY hike – taking your own transport up there and arranging a local (Spanish-speaking) guide to show you around, or a fully customisable guided tour. This will include everything over the length of time you need it, as well as an English speaking guide. Read my post on hiking in Oaxaca for more information.Learn to Surf at Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido is one of the best beachside destinations in Mexico. It is fairly busy with tourists – but if you come here from the beaches of the Yucatan, you’ll be amazed at how quiet it is! It’s also one of the best surfing destinations in the country. Beginners can take lessons at Playa Manzanillo, where waves are kind and there are instructors aplenty. If you’re already a pro, you can hire a board and check out Playa Zicatela for bigger, tougher waves (don’t surf here unless you really are a pro, I’m not lying when I say bigger and tougher – most people don’t even swim here).Take a Trip to San Jose del Pacifico
San Jose del Pacifico is nestled in the mountains south of Oaxaca. It’s a beautiful spot, but has got its name for something in particular… mushrooms. And not the kind you put on your pizza, the magic kind. They’re plentiful in the surrounding forests, and eating them is a part of ancient traditions. They’re very much illegal, but you’ll be offered them everywhere in San Jose del Pacifico. Hallucinogenics aren’t ma thing, so I didn’t take them, but SJDP is worth the trip (pardon the pun) even if you’re not going to have mushrooms. There’s an absolutely beautiful view, especially from La Cumbre guesthouse, and plenty of hikes in the local area.Chiapas
Explore Palenque
Tucked into the jungle of Chiapas sit the stunning ruins of Palenque, Mexico, the beautiful Mayan city that was abandoned for unknown reasons in the 8th century.
This city was smaller than more famous Mayan sites like Chichen Itza or Tikal, and to this day is less popular to visit–but that’s exactly why you should.
In Palenque, you can wander pass dozens of temples, meander along a palace, stroll along paths through the jungle, and marvel at the fact that while the city as it is seen today is incredibly impressive, archaeologists estimate that they’ve only uncovered 10% of it so far!
By Kate from Our Escape Clause
Diving is the one thing I really want to do, as well as see some of those national parks and ancient ruins, and cities and more & more!!! Do you think it is possible to visit without any knowledge of Spanish or should I get at least basic phrases?
There’s so much isn’t there! It’s such a diverse country. People do visit without Spanish and it’s possible if you don’t mind doing tours to visit the attractions, but if you want to do more independent/ off the beaten path travel I would recommend learning a little Spanish. It’s not hard to pick up and is a really lovely language!
Nothing to do in Veracruz?
What would you recommend there? This post isn’t to say that these are the only things to do in Mexico!