Things to do in Mexico: pick a region, plan smarter, and avoid one-note trips

Mexico offers a vast landscape of experiences, from ancient civilizations to world-class gastronomy. The key to a perfect trip is aligning your destination with your personal interests, ensuring every stop resonates with your travel style.

The capital is a vibrant megalopolis where history and modernity collide. It is the perfect hub for those who crave a deep dive into urban life, featuring lush parks, colonial architecture and a creative energy that rivals the world’s greatest cities.

Don't let the city's size overwhelm you. You can explore the iconic National Museum of Anthropology in a morning or take a focused stroll through the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the historic Zócalo. Architecture lovers can enjoy quick tours of Luis Barragán’s masterpieces or the colonial charm of San Ángel.

Eat your way through the city by starting with an early morning taco at a local stand, followed by a lunch at a traditional market like Mercado de Medellín. For dinner, Mexico City offers some of the world’s top-rated tasting menus in Polanco and Roma, showcasing the evolution of Mexican fine dining.

Puerto Vallarta is where the Sierra Madre Mountains meet the Pacific, offering a rare blend of colonial charm and tropical adventure.

To truly experience the essence of this destination, consider staying at the Club Regina Puerto Vallarta, an exceptional beachfront property located in the exclusive Marina area.

Just 10 minutes from the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, this hotel is a strategic base for any traveler, whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a business trip, or a fun-filled family vacation. Many of the modern rooms offer spectacular views of Banderas Bay, while the hotel's versatile spaces—ranging from refreshing bars to formal meeting rooms—ensure a comfortable and seamless stay in one of Mexico’s most iconic coastal jewels.

Oaxaca is the soul of Mexico. It is a destination where tradition is not just preserved but lived daily through its vibrant festivals, indigenous languages and deep-rooted artisanal techniques.

Take a short trip to surrounding villages like Teotitlán del Valle for handmade textiles or San Bartolo Coyotepec for black pottery. Foodies must visit the "smoke corridor" in the 20 de Noviembre market and participate in a mezcal tasting to understand the complex spirit of the agave.

Beyond the famous ruins of Monte Albán, new archaeological insights and community-led tourism projects are opening up less-visited sites like Mitla and the petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua, offering a more intimate look at Zapotec history.

This region combines the turquoise waters of the Caribbean with the mystical jungle. By planning your logistics carefully, you can enjoy sun-soaked beaches and crystal-clear cenotes throughout Yucatán and the Riviera Maya without the stress of long commutes.

A cenote is a natural pit, or sinkhole, resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater underneath. Formed over thousands of years through the filtration of rain, these subterranean swimming holes are part of a vast underground river system unique to the Yucatán Peninsula. For the ancient Maya, cenotes were much more than a source of fresh water; they were considered sacred portals to the underworld (Xibalba) and sites for spiritual rituals. Today, they remain vital to local culture and ecology, offering travelers a chance to swim in pristine, mineral-rich waters surrounded by hanging vines and dramatic stalactites, providing a cooling sanctuary that feels deeply connected to the earth’s history.

The Tren Maya is a game-changer for travelers, connecting major hubs like Cancún, Mérida, and Palenque. It allows for more efficient travel between the coast and the inland colonial cities, making it easier to see more of the peninsula in a shorter time frame.

The opening of the Tulum International Airport (TQO) has shifted how travelers approach the Riviera Maya. You can now bypass the long drive from Cancún, making Tulum or the southern cenote routes a more practical home base for your jungle adventures.

The ibis Merida is a smart choice for travelers seeking modern comfort in the "White City." Located in the business district with easy access to the historic center, it offers 120 air-conditioned rooms designed for a restful night.

• 24/7 Snacks: Our round-the-clock snack service is perfect for late-night arrivals or early-morning cravings, ensuring you never go hungry regardless of your schedule.

• High-Speed Wi-Fi: Stay connected with complimentary high-speed internet throughout the hotel, ideal for both business productivity and sharing your travel memories in real time.

• Pet-Friendly Policy: We welcome your furry companions, so you don't have to leave your best friend behind while exploring the beautiful sights of the "White City."

• Pasta & Grill Restaurant: Enjoy fresh and delicious meals at our on-site restaurant, featuring a variety of easy-to-love dishes in a relaxed and modern dining environment.

Located within the Galerías Mérida shopping complex, ibis Styles Mer. Galerías combines creative design with ultimate convenience. It is perfect for families or business travelers who want shopping, dining, and entertainment at their doorstep.

• Local Design Flair: Experience contemporary, design-forward guest rooms that feature unique local artistic touches, providing a creative and inspiring atmosphere for your stay.

• Complimentary Breakfast: Start every morning of your trip right with a diverse breakfast selection included in your stay, designed to fuel your adventures across Yucatán.

• Mall & Ice Rink Access: Enjoy the ultimate convenience of direct access to the Galerías Mérida shopping complex, featuring premier stores, diverse dining, and an indoor ice rink.

• Creative Work Zones: Take advantage of our specially designed work areas, perfect for digital nomads and business travelers who need a productive and stylish space to focus.

If you want to enjoy the ocean without the "all-inclusive" bubble, Mexico’s islands offer authentic charm and active adventures that go far beyond the typical lounge chair experience.

From world-class diving in crystal-clear reefs to exploring hidden local eateries and boutique shops, these coastal escapes provide a genuine connection to the sea. Choosing an island stay allows you to set your own pace, discover secluded natural wonders, and experience the vibrant local culture that defines the true spirit of the Mexican Caribbean and Pacific coasts.

Cozumel is more than just a cruise port. Head to the island’s windward side for rugged beaches or explore the downtown area for specialty coffee shops and local seafood spots that cater to the island’s thriving diving community.

Skip the big resorts and stay near Playa del Carmen to explore a global food scene, from authentic cochinita pibil to high-end bistros. For a more exclusive retreat nearby, we recommend Banyan Tree Mayakoba. Immersed in mangroves and pristine coastlines, this sanctuary blends Mexican hospitality with Asian wisdom, offering world-class dining and a wellness program designed for an unparalleled experience in the heart of the Riviera Maya.

When exploring the cradle of ancient civilizations, it is incredibly tempting to try and see every temple and pyramid on the map. However, thoughtful pacing is essential to avoid the dreaded "ruin fatigue" and truly appreciate the magnitude of these archaeological wonders.

By selecting one or two significant sites and allowing yourself enough time to absorb their history and architectural brilliance, you ensure a much deeper and more meaningful connection to Mexico’s past. A well-balanced itinerary transforms a simple sightseeing tour into a legendary journey through time, leaving you energized rather than exhausted by the end of your trip.

Visit Teotihuacán early in the morning from Mexico City to beat the heat. When visiting Chichén Itzá, stay overnight in nearby Mérida or Valladolid to arrive at the gates before the tour buses. Limit yourself to one major archaeological site per trip to truly appreciate the scale and history.

Strategically located in the northern industrial zone of Mexico City, ibis Mexico Perinorte is ideal for business travelers and those looking for a practical stop with easy access to the Periférico highway.

• Corporate Meeting Rooms: Take advantage of our fully equipped meeting spaces, designed to host successful corporate events and professional gatherings with all the necessary technology.

• Soundproofed Guest Rooms: Enjoy a peaceful and restorative night's sleep even in a bustling industrial area, thanks to our high-quality soundproofing designed for ultimate guest comfort.

• Secure Private Parking: We provide on-site private parking, giving you peace of mind and easy access to your vehicle throughout your stay in the northern part of the city.

• 24-Hour Bar Service: Whether you need a late-night nightcap or an early-morning refreshment, our bar service remains open 24 hours a day to cater to your schedule.
  
  

Maximizing your Mexican adventure requires a few strategic logistical choices. To ensure your trip is as seamless as it is memorable, keep these essential travel tips in mind:

• Optimal Timing: Plan your visit for the dry season, which runs from November to April. This window offers the most reliable weather for both coastal lounging and exploring inland ruins.

• Safe Transportation: While Mexico is generally very welcoming to tourists, it is best to use registered taxis or trusted rideshare apps to navigate urban areas safely and efficiently.

• Regional Travel: For long distances, domestic flights are highly affordable. However, for regional trips, the first-class bus system (such as ADO) is world-class, offering comfort and punctuality.

• Currency Essentials: While many places accept cards, always keep a supply of Mexican Pesos on hand. You will need them for authentic experiences at small local markets and for customary tipping.

To get the most out of your trip, don't try to cross the whole country. Focus on the Yucatán for beaches and history, or Central Mexico for city life and mountains. Adding a short 2-day side trip—like a flight from the city to the coast—provides the perfect contrast without exhaustion.

Exploring Mexico with Accor is a unique experience that offers not only the charm of this culturally rich country but also the comfort and quality that only our hotel network can provide. With diverse lodging options across the most iconic regions, you can immerse yourself in Mexico's natural beauties and historical treasures while enjoying a welcoming and high-standard stay.

Additionally, by choosing Accor, you can take full advantage of the ALL – Accor Live Limitless loyalty program. Members enjoy exclusive benefits, such as special discounts and room upgrades, ensuring your journey through Mexico is as rewarding as it is unforgettable.