Mexico is one of the most popular vacation destinations right now; there are so many places to explore and relax that you’re bound to find something for everyone. So whether you’re looking for a cultural discovery or just to lie on sandy beaches, here are some of the hottest Mexican vacation ideas for you to consider.
For nature: Isla Holbox
There are so many things to do in Isla Holbox to get back in touch with nature. In this secret paradise, north of Cancun, you could swim with whale sharks, spot the local wildlife or take your time on the beautiful beaches in the area.
Totally into swimming with whale sharks? Read about our whale shark adventure!
The stunning sites of the area are what attract people here – whether that’s the Caribbean-style buildings or the views from land or sea. You can take in all of them with a bike ride, which is a great way to travel the island. If you want to try water transport, try a kayak tour. Or keep an eye out for the ethereal bioluminescence in the summer months, where it looks like blue lights lap the seashore.
Or you could just do nothing. Isla Holbox is famed for its hammocks, so you could spend your vacation just people-watching on the beach.
For urban discovery: Mexico City
Another surprise is a visit to the capital city, a place that many tourists visiting Mexico don’t always add to their to-do lists. It’s one of the largest cities in the world, so there are plenty of significant sites to see.
To take in as much of the city as you can, you should look into going on one of the many tours offered. If art is your thing, then there’s the Frida Kahlo museum and Museo Soumaya – both of which are in buildings that are striking to look at, for very different reasons.
If you fancy going in late October to early November, you can immerse yourself in the Day of the Dead celebrations, otherwise known as Día de los Muertos. The festival, which honours the memory of family and friends who have passed away, now includes a parade that only started in 2017.
For historic exploration: Yucatan
It’s here that you can find out more about the ancient Mayans and look around the archaeological site of Chichen Itza. It is dominated by the Pyramid of Kukulkan, which was built as a representation of the Mayan calendar. Light shows take place at the site each evening, and parties are held at each equinox.
There are also the ancient ruins of Coba. This is another place steeped in Mayan history, and was thought to be the most powerful city in the area before it was abandoned. You can still climb the largest of the pyramids here, called Ixmoja, and you’ll get a fantastic view of the area as your reward. Coba is a little more remote than Chichen Itza, but that means it’ll be less crowded so you’re a little more free to explore. It’s also been less excavated, giving visitors to Coba a more authentic feeling.
So, which will you choose?
Three wonderful choices — very different, yet all the hottest Mexican vacation ideas. If you’re still looking for more inspiration, click on over to my posts about Yucatan’s Roatan or Cozumel.
We have looked at Mexico City a few times now, but haven’t booked anything yet. I’ve heard so much about Isla Holbox, but have also heard it is hard to get to. The Yucatan area is one of my favorite spots to visit!
Excellent choices! I loved Mexico City, we are headed to the Yucatan Peninsula in January to explore further, and also to Isla Mujeres, an island not far from Holbox. Mexico is a fantastic inexpensive place to visit and explore.