You enjoyed your last vacation in the United States of America. But this time, you are thinking about going on a family trip to Mexico. On television or on the internet, you have heard that it is a dream destination to break the routine and escape. If you have doubts, we offer you this article to confirm this statement.
This North American country abounds with a large number of breathtaking tourist sites. Cancún Playa del Carmen Tulum, Copper Canyon, varied landscapes of Yucatan Quintana Roo, Chichén Itzá Tulum, floating gardens of Xochimilco or Agua Azul waterfalls, each place offers you beautiful surprises making your road trip in Mexico extraordinary and memorable. Whether you plan to travel alone, as a couple or with friends, Mexico has everything to please you.
What are the best beach destinations in Mexico?
With the diversity of landscapes both wild and magnificent, its white sandy beaches, its superb Agua Azul waterfalls, its numerous sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage, its national anthropology museum, there is no need to wonder why to choose a family trip to Mexico.
This country is not only welcoming, festive, colorful, but also sunny. It delights those who dream of swimming in clear and warm waters. It offers them the opportunity to lie on pristine sand while admiring the peaceful beaches. Mexico overflows with the most beautiful beach resorts in North America.
Playa del Carmen is one of them. It is an ideal destination to escape the monotonous daily life and stressful work. From this magnificent beach, you have the possibility to visit Cozumel. This small island is a little gem of the country promising you happiness, rest, and tranquility.
After your visit to Playa del Carmen Tulum, Cancún also does not fail to fascinate you. This city stretches its white sandy beaches along the translucent and turquoise Caribbean Sea. Its beach resort is not only for water activities or relaxation.
It is also an ideal place to party. Restaurants, bars, and nightclubs offer lively nights by the sea. Apart from Cancún Playa del Carmen, other places like Tulum, Isla Mujeres or the Island of Women and Akumal offer you some of the prettiest beaches in Mexico. Consider looking at the map of Mexico to learn more.
What are the historical and cultural sites not to be missed in Mexico?
Besides the beauty of its nature with the floating gardens of Xochimilco, Copper Canyon, white sandy beaches, Agua Azul waterfalls, majestic freshwater lakes, varied landscapes of Yucatan Quintana Roo, Mexico is full of numerous cultural and historical sites, most of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage.
Yucatan Chichén Itzá Tulum is among the most popular. This archaeological site is ranked among the seven new wonders of the world. It is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage. Covering an area of at least 5 km2, Chichen Itza remains a mystery for historians as well as archaeologists. They believe they have discovered only 10% of the famous site. It was created by the Maya civilization around the 8th century as a religious center.
Besides Yucatan Chichén Itzá, the Monte Alban site welcomes many visitors each year. It is an archaeological heritage site that was founded in the year 500 BC. Regarding the National Museum of Anthropology, it is dedicated to the history and archaeology of pre-Hispanic civilizations.
There are also the archaeological ruins of Tulum. This site is among the best places of interest in Mexico. It currently features two altars, five temples, and numerous platforms equipped with bleachers. Pyramid-shaped, the Castillo is one of the most important constructions. It is one of the most favored attractions by visitors during their stays near the white sandy beaches of the Riviera Maya.
Where are the best diving and snorkeling spots in Mexico?
Mexico is not only known for its famous National Museum of Anthropology, its beautiful white sandy beaches, its Copper Canyon or its Agua Azul waterfalls. It also delights snorkeling enthusiasts with its multiple diving spots. These allow them to pleasantly stroll on the water’s surface while admiring the underwater scenery and aquatic wildlife.
Cancún Playa del Carmen Tulum are the best diving spots in Mexico. If you choose Cancún, enjoy viewing the largest underwater museum in the world. As for diving in Playa del Carmen, the activity offers you the chance to observe local fauna such as turtles, eagle rays, or bull sharks. And for those snorkeling in Tulum, they can encounter lobsters, manta rays, reef fish, eels, whale sharks, and many more.
The Southern Baja California area is also among the best diving spots. If you visit the region between December and March, you will have the chance to see humpback whales as well as orcas. You don’t have to worry as you can dive safely.
Just like Guatemala, Mexico has many diving sites accessible to everyone. For beginner divers, it is advised to be accompanied by experts for their first time. Some sites are dedicated to experienced divers while others are for novices. Make sure to get informed before planning a diving session.
Which Mexican cities are renowned for their local cuisine?
For those planning to travel cheaply, Mexico is an affordable destination. Whether it is plane tickets, accommodation, transportation, or food, travel expenses are greatly reduced thanks to the reasonable cost of living. That’s not all, tourists choose this country because of its local cuisine which is both flavorful, refined, and inventive.
To taste the best Mexican dishes, we suggest visiting the country’s capital, Mexico City. It is full of many chic and modern restaurants such as Chetito, Pujol, Contramar, Botanico Restaurante and Mariscos Mi Compa Chava. The latter is very well known for its seafood specialties. If marine flavors tempt you, this establishment is a must-visit address.
If you are chili enthusiasts, don’t forget to visit the Jamaica market. It is a representative place of the country’s culture. Otherwise, consider visiting the San Juan market. It offers you many typical Mexican dishes. It is also renowned for its exotic foods.
That said, Yucatan Quintana Roo is also one of the cities highly favored by visitors during a culinary trip. The local cuisine is both unique, delicious, and mixed. Quintana Roo is a fishing town. It is no surprise that fish-based dishes are among its specialties.
If you want to enjoy fresh ceviches or shrimp tacos, there are many restaurants that can please you, such as El Pocito, Lorenzillos, Crab House, Portofino restaurant and more.
What are the best places to discover the Mayan culture in Mexico?
As in all of North and Central America, many sites trace the Mayan civilization. The same is true in Mexico. This country is rich in numerous remains of temples and pyramids that are beautifully preserved.
Yucatan Chichén Itzá Tulum is one of the most famous places in the country. As mentioned above, this site is listed among the seven wonders of the world. Besides the El Castillo pyramid, the tlachtli is also very famous. It is a large Mayan ballgame court.
Regarding Cobá, it houses the tallest pyramid in Yucatan Quintana Roo. It was one of the most popular Mayan cities in its time. Although many parts of Cobá have not yet been excavated, you can admire the Nohoc Mul pyramid, which is 48 meters high. It offers a splendid view of the Yucatán forest.
As for the Tulum ruins, the site is one of the last Mayan cities. It is also the only one founded on the coast. It stands out for its position on cliffs up to 12 meters high. In the Chiapas jungle, Palenque also arouses tourists’ curiosity. This ancient Mayan city is distinguished by the presence of countless sophisticated drawings. They allow archaeologists to study Mayan mythology, history, and culture.
Where to go for family vacations in Mexico?
Are you looking for a great idea to please your children? Don’t hesitate to suggest a Mexico road trip to them. The Barrancas del Cobre are among the ideal destinations for a family trip. There are many circuits that can last a few days. Otherwise, you can visit the Agua Azul waterfalls. Going to the white sandy beaches of Playa del Carmen Tulum can also seem fun.
Regarding transportation, public transport is of good quality. However, it does not guarantee comfort and convenience when the distances of a Mexico road trip are long. It is therefore advisable to opt for car rental in Mexico. With the variety of offers, this service is not expensive. The essential thing is to find a well-maintained vehicle to help you discover the treasures of the country.
During your Mexico family trip, don’t forget to visit Mexico City. This lively capital is full of many natural parks that will surely delight children. They love playing in playgrounds offering slides, seesaws, merry-go-rounds, swings, and more.
And to make the Mexico family trip rich in history, consider taking your little ones to explore historical sites like Yucatan Chichén Itzá Tulum. Be sure to include visits to the Mayan pyramids and temples in your itinerary.
What are the best places for hiking and outdoor activities in Mexico?
If you like hiking, Mexico offers many routes to help you admire the treasures and beauty of the country. The Agua Azul waterfalls, the archaeological site in Yucatan Chichén Itzá Tulum, the esplanade of Puerto Vallarta, the National Anthropology Museum, the floating gardens of Xochimilco, and the beaches at Cancún Playa del Carmen are among the most popular destinations for excursionists.
Besides hiking and the Mexico road trip, you can practice a range of outdoor activities in Mexico. It offers several impressive routes for mountaineering. The great volcanoes are part of them. Located in the Mexico City region, they are mainly aimed at beginner enthusiasts. They love climbing Pico de Orizaba, Citlaltepeti, and Ixtaccihualt. Apart from that, the state of Hidalgo is also suitable for mountaineering.
For thrill-seekers, Mexico can please them with its countless sites suitable for extreme sports. The canyons of the Barrancas del Cobre are among the best-known places. There are also cliffs, underground tunnels, natural pools, dizzying waterfalls, and more.
For water sports enthusiasts, there are many spots allowing them to practice diving, snorkeling, rafting, kayaking, windsurfing, sport fishing, kite surfing, and more. Horseback riding is equally very popular in Mexico. The same goes for paragliding, cycling, bungee jumping, and more.
What are the most romantic destinations for a honeymoon in Mexico?
Besides its extraordinary landscapes and white sandy beaches, Mexico is full of countless romantic spots. It is therefore normal that it is highly favored by newlyweds for their honeymoon.
For romantic couples, Holbox Island offers a postcard-perfect setting making their dream a reality. The pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters create the backdrop that makes their honeymoon more romantic. Likewise, Playa del Carmen Tulum is another interesting option. Fine white sand, crystal-clear water, white sky, and palm trees, this tropical paradise is the living witness of their love.
If the newlyweds share the same love for nature, they can go discover the tropical jungle of Chiapas. With lush vegetation, the Agua Azul waterfalls, and the Sumidero canyon, the place is of rare beauty. Yucatan also offers them a breathtaking natural spot. Take advantage of your visit to discover the most famous archaeological sites like Chichén Itzá Tulum.
Where are the best parties and festivals in Mexico?
Many foreigners opt for the family trip to Mexico to attend countless festivals and parties. It should be noted that this country is not only religious and patriotic but also cultural. It is not surprising that it fascinates visitors because of its multiple commemorative ceremonies.
Besides New Year’s Day, Mexico’s Independence Day, Holy Week, Mexican Revolution Day, and Our Lady of Carmen feast, the Tenosique Carnival is very popular. Celebrated in January and February, this event stands out for its unusual costumes made from plants. With ancestral ritual music and dances, people wear wooden masks. On the Yucatán Peninsula, the major carnivals mainly take place in Cozumel, Mérida, and the Campeche region.
In Oaxaca, the Guelaguetza festival also attracts more and more travelers. It is celebrated with music, strange costumes, traditional dances, crafts, and gastronomy. Welcoming, the locals are happy to share this intense moment with tourists. This folkloric gathering highlights the cultural heritage of the indigenous people and the ethnic diversity of the southern part of the country.
Every November 2nd, the Day of the Dead or dia de los muertos is commemorated throughout Mexico. It is a festive and popular tradition that is classified as intangible cultural heritage of humanity by UNESCO. Residents can dance, sing, eat, and have fun to pay tribute to their departed family members. They dress up, decorate their homes, and parade through the colorful streets with music.
What are the most recommended places for art and music lovers in Mexico?
Music is an integral part of Mexican art, tradition, and culture. Very diverse, it includes a number of styles generally influenced by folk melodies. Mariachi is the most traditional and widespread music in the country. If you want to attend a show dedicated to this musical style, head to Plaza Garibaldi in Mexico City.
Tulum also hosts many music festivals every year. These artistic performances mainly concern electronic music such as techno, Urban, Hip Hop, Deep House, Industrial, electro, Bass, and many others. For example, there is Tomorrowland Core, Day Zero Festival, Zamna Tulum, Arena Festival, and more.
For art lovers, Mexico offers many art galleries that are sometimes open to the general public. Even though Chiapas is a poor region, you can find many galleries such as the LeK Museum and Art Gallery, the Enzue Gallery, and the Cerrillo Studio. The latter organizes more than 70 different exhibitions hosting artists from all over the world.
Finally, the city of Mexico City invites you to explore its museums that delight experts and art collectors. Among the must-sees, take the time to explore the National Museum of Anthropology, Soumaya Museum, Museum of Modern Art, and the National History Museum. The latter is located in Chapultepec Castle.
