Mexico is a wonderland. One moment, you’re sipping smoky mezcal, and the next you’re floating in the bluest of natural pools or being serenaded by mariachi singers while Frida Kahlo peers down from a mural.
Things feel even more fantastic when you find the tastiest food while discovering plumed serpents, pyramids, and millennia of history around the next corner. No matter how many times you visit, Mexico’s stunning nature and its vibrant towns let you find an everyday life steeped in surrealism, natural wonders, and incredible history.
1. Admire the Monumental Power of a Pyramid
Pyramids humble you. Gaze skywards at the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacán, and it’s easy to feel tiny. It’s the third-largest ancient pyramid in the world, bringing the ancient priests closer to the heavens at its summit. No wonder the pyramids at Teotihuacán were chosen as temples for human sacrifices to the gods.
The Aztecs similarly honored their gods at the fascinating Templo Mayor at the heart of their empire, Tenochtitlán, modern-day Mexico City.
Other pre-Hispanic civilizations, such as the engineering Maya, constructed pyramids that served as centers of public life. At Chichén Itzá and Palenque, they buried their powerful leaders inside them and used these monumental structures, which rise above the forest canopy, to navigate their lands.
In Tulum, a Maya pyramid overlooks the turquoise waters and was used as a lighthouse.
Mexico is home to an even mightier pyramid, the largest by volume in the world. The Pirámide Tepanapa is bigger than the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt. Outside, it resembles a grassy hill, fooling Spanish conquistadors and sparing it from destruction. Inside, it takes 15 minutes to walk through the cool tunnels that crisscross through the Pyramid of Cholula. Each tight turn makes you feel minuscule.
2. Learn About Mexico’s Artisan Traditions
Gorgeous Mexican artesanías (handicrafts) charm you with their sweetness. When you hold a piece at a workshop, you grasp centuries of skill and traditions.
A psychedelic beadwork mask might leap out at you. The pulsing colors reflect the mythology of the Huichol of Jalisco. Look into Taxco silverware, which shimmers with history, from silver gifts to Aztec gods to being ransacked for Spanish pockets.
The kaleidoscopic work of generations of embroiderers, pre-Hispanic weavers, Oaxacan potters, and metalsmiths tells Mexico’s diverse story. Pick up a piece from an artisan to contribute to their narrative.
3. Cycle Mexico City’s Leafy Neighborhoods
Bike lanes are plentiful across some of Mexico City’s best neighborhoods, including Condesa, Roma, and artsy Coyoacán. Archways of trees guide you down streets lined with elegantly tiled houses and boutique stores. Parks are alive with young families or teenagers practicing dance moves, while well-dressed individuals lounge at cafes.
Planning tip: Join Mexico City’s free Sunday bike rides, when the main avenues of the capital become a car-free zone. Cyclists enjoy leisurely rides, and you can partake in the fun with a free or low-cost bike rental.
4. Learn to Dance the Salsa and danzón
Mexicans have the music in them, and attempting to dance is essential to the Mexico experience. Dressed in hats and heels or casual clothes, couples gather in the outdoor Plaza Ciudadela in Mexico City every Saturday to dance, mingle, and learn salsa and danzón.
It’s open to the public, but if you want some courage, many local bars offer dance lessons for the price of a tequila. Mama Rumba hosts lively performances with a big band.
Planning tip: For serious dancing, Salón de Bailes Los Ángeles serves as both a dance school and a legendary venue where stars from Mexico’s Golden Age of cinema used to shine.
5. Float in Subterranean Cenotes
For the Maya, cenotes were gateways to the gods, leading to the construction of villages around them. Today, cenotes, natural limestone swimming holes, are wondrous hidden pools inviting you to cool off in lush surroundings. Formed by the collapse of porous limestone bedrock, these pools are crystal clear.
Underwater photographers, cavers, and snorkelers relish the clear waters, as do swimmers seeking peaceful refreshment under the magnificent tree canopy.
Unlike seawater, the turquoise waters in cenotes are fresh and mineral-rich. Floating in these still waters transports you into prehistory. Look up at the twisting vines and shafts of sunlight filtering through. Hummingbirds gently flutter by, evoking the sense of time standing still since the Maya’s presence.
Planning tip: Bring cash for entrance fees and pack essentials like water shoes and eco-friendly sunscreen.
6. Eat Your Fill of Mexican Street Food
Wondering where to find the best tacos? It’s not in a white-tablecloth restaurant; it’s on the street.
There’s something magical about the red-hot embers of tacos al pastor cooked on a chargrill that makes them taste divine. Enjoy handmade quesadillas packed with zucchini flowers or nopales (cactus). Relish self-serve salsas that elevate sopes and tlacoyos to delicious new heights. Freshly cut limes and friendly conversations add that extra zing to your meal.
Oaxaca is known as the food capital, with its bustling markets offering the best street food. Be sure to explore local staples in Mexico City, like El Vilsito for tacos and Por Siempre Vegana Taquería for delicious vegan fare.
Local tip: To discover the freshest and tastiest street food, pause at a stand and observe. The best vendors have a sizzling comal (hot plate) that draws you in with its enticing aromas.
7. Glide Along the Canals of Floating Aztec Gardens in Xochimilco
Xochimilco, south of Mexico City, is the last vestige of the country’s pre-Hispanic waterways. Colorful wooden trajinera boats glide across the canals, passing chinampas (floating gardens) where an array of fruits, vegetables, and flowers flourish.
Over 500 years ago, the powerful Aztec city of Tenochtitlán thrived on an island in interconnected lakes. Here, they managed a complex balance of salt and fresh water. As you float by, envision Xochimilco in Aztec times, with gardeners tending plots of vibrant green beans, purple amaranth, and chilis to sustain the city, a tradition that continues today.
8. Sip Artisanal Mezcal
Mezcal, a smoky and rich elixir, is enjoyed in warm, inviting bars by dreamers, artists, and those seeking solace. As the older sibling of tequila, mezcal is crafted from the same agave plant but is hand-roasted under volcanic rocks.
Traditionally, visitors to Oaxaca would discreetly bring flasks back from local distilleries. Now, mezcal bars in cities have embraced this artisanal drink, showcasing small distillers in venues with exquisite tasting flights.
Many mezcal brands are produced in small batches, predominantly available in Mexico. Artisanal producers have begun to make a name for themselves outside the country, with Oaxaca leading the way as the mezcal capital.
Local tip: An ideal mezcal day starts with a guided distillery visit to learn about the slow cooking process and finishing at a tasting room. Sip the traditional way, with a slice of orange sprinkled with sal de gusano (agave worm salt) on the side.
9. Experience a 3000-Year-Old Temascal Ceremony
A temascal is more than just a sauna; it’s an ancient Maya-Zapotec ritual that employs indigenous cultural knowledge as a form of healing. Guided by a shaman, participants undergo a transformative experience inside a dome, enhancing their connections to nature.
In this intimate setting, the shaman pours herbal infusions over hot rocks creating steam while participants reflect and cleanse themselves. It’s a tradition that pre-dates many therapies known to the modern world.
Planning tip: For an authentic temascal experience, seek out traditional ceremonies in Tepotzlan or fully immerse yourself in Oaxaca’s Zapotec culture.
10. Tap into the Songs of Mexico with a Mariachi Performance
Mariachi bands are an embodiment of Mexican culture, offering songs for every mood and milestone. Celebrations like weddings and birthdays often feature these ensembles, illustrating their deep-rooted significance beyond mere entertainment.
Mexico City’s Plaza Garibaldi serves as a vibrant gathering place, reflecting the heart of mariachi culture. Guadalajara is home to the world’s largest mariachi festival every September, celebrating this musical heritage.
11. Get Insight into Frida Kahlo’s Artistic Life
Bottles of paint gleam beside an easel, suggesting the artist has just stepped away. Handicrafts from across Mexico fill the rooms with stories and tradition.
The Blue House is where Frida lived, creating and showcasing her life’s work, preserving the very essence of her spirit. From her silver jewelry to her wheelchair, every item tells a tale of her struggle and creativity.
Frida famously wore traditional dresses and shawls, honoring her roots and emanating the power of her heritage. Visiting the museum offers unparalleled insight into her artistic journey and deep connection to Mexico.
12. Travel Through Mexican History at a Museum
Mexico City boasts over 150 museums, surpassing even New York and Paris. Each museum presents pieces of history—ranging from indigenous handicrafts to revolutions and human rights.
One of the world’s finest museums is the Museo Nacional de Antropología, featuring a dramatic Maya-inspired courtyard with a water feature that mesmerizes visitors.
The country’s legendary muralists, known as the “big three”—Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco, and David Siqueiros—have their masterpieces displayed throughout public buildings, making history accessible to all.
13. Mark Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
Once a year, the spirits of the dearly departed follow a path of marigold petals back to their loved ones. Altars overflowing with favorite dishes and candles create an ambiance of reverent joy.
Día de los Muertos transcends sadness, celebrating life and remembrance in vibrant festivities that date back over 3000 years, rooted in Aztec customs.
If you visit at the end of October, you’ll witness spirited nights as communities gather to honor their ancestors, making for an unforgettable experience.
14. Devour Some mole
Among Mexico’s culinary highlights, mole stands out for its complex mix of flavors. This rich sauce—a chocolatey blend of herbs, spices, and peppers—features over 15 ingredients, transforming dishes into a flavor explosion.
Oaxaca is famous for its diverse moles, with mole negro being a crowd favorite, renowned for its distinct smokiness and unique ingredients. Enjoy it over chicken or enchiladas to savor every last bite.
15. Experience Everyday Mexican Life in a Market
Brightly colored piñatas sway overhead, while aromatic flowers and spices fill the air. A Mexican mercado (market) buzzes with life—fruit salad stands, barber shops, and vibrant vendors enhance the experience.
In markets, you may find incense wafting and sizzling pork glistening under heat lamps. Enjoy dining alongside families, sampling local delicacies and fresh juices that embody the essence of Mexican life.
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16. Learn History Through Botany in Oaxaca
At the Jardín Etnobotánico, you can explore how indigenous people utilized plants for clothing, food, and medicine. Discover the vibrant history of the region, where nature and culture intersect.
You can even stain your hands bright red with cochineal from the prickly pear cactus, showing how cultural practices continue to provide insight into Mexico’s past.
17. Visit a Magic Town
Mexico boasts more than 132 pueblos mágicos, enchanting each with traditional charm. These towns feature leafy zócalos where locals gather to socialize, making them feel alive and welcoming.
Discover the uniqueness of each town, from Taxco’s stunning retro VW taxis to Papantla’s captivating dancers, offering glimpses into the cultural richness of Mexico.
18. Lounge on Beaches Without the Crowds
To enjoy a serene beach experience, consider the coast of Oaxaca. Huatulco features 36 stunning golden-sand beaches that invite relaxation and reflection. Puerto Escondido, with its Playa Carrizalillo, offers a hidden gem away from the bustling tourist spots.
In the Yucatán Peninsula, escape the overdeveloped areas. Seek out local beaches in Playa del Carmen that stay true to their tranquil roots, such as charming garden restaurants and wooden shack bars.
19. Enjoy a Steaming Hot Tortilla at a tortillería
One of Mexico’s simple delights is the fresh sound of a tortillería. The art of nixtamalization turns corn into nourishing tortillas, and seeing them made fresh invites passersby to indulge.
Planning tip: Seek out markets where you’ll find regional tortillerías, ensuring you’re in for a treat with warm, fresh tortillas.
