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While there are many attractions to visit worldwide like Central Park (NYC), the Eiffel Tower, Vatican City, the Forbidden City, and Niagara Falls, Mexico has a large number of its own, providing visitors with many opportunities to explore.
Mexico is a beautiful country filled with culturally rich cities, endless beaches, historical sites, impressive ruins, rainforests, the list goes on. It’s clear why many visit the stunning villages and attractions in Mexico.
Not sure where to start on the long list of things to do in Mexico? Here are the 10 top attractions that will take your trip to the next level.
Table of Contents
1. Chichen Itza (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Chichen Itza continues to remain one of the most popular attractions in Mexico. These ancient ruins are both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the new seven wonders of the world. Ancient Mayan ruins sit waiting to be explored by foot, with pyramids and temples that date back 1500 years.
While climbing to the top of the ruins is no longer allowed, they’re spectacular to view from below. The Temple of KulKucan is a top spot to visit, as it’s the central pyramid. Visit during the spring or fall to see the “shadow of the serpent” climb up the pyramid.
Explore Chichen Itza by tour here: Chichen Itza Plus Cenote Swim and Lunch.
2. Metropolitan Cathedral (Mexico City)
This historic cathedral is situated in the center of Mexico City’s plaza. The Metropolitan Cathedral, or Catedral Metropolitana, is known as one of the oldest buildings in Mexico. This site has a unique history built on top of Mayan ruins.
Building the cathedral took an impressive 300 years. This cathedral features impressive bell towers and temples, making it a top destination for things to go see in Mexico.
Purchase tickets for a tour of the Metropolitan Cathedral and other historical sites in Mexico City here: Mexico City Historical Center Highlights.
3. Las Coloradas (Yucatan Peninsula)
Las Coloradas is unlike any attraction you’ve seen before. The name, Las Colaradas, translates to blush red in English, hinting at the beautiful colors present in these breathtaking lakes. Many people travel far and wide for this popular attraction in the Río Lagartos Biosphere Reserve.
What makes these lakes their vibrant pink color? It’s due to a combination of red algae, shrimp, and plankton that live in water with high salt content. When the sunlight reflects off the water, it creates the pretty pink hues that made the lakes famous.
As the lakes are owned by a large factory which produces salt, it’s best to explore them via tour.
Spend an entire day exploring Las Coloradas here: Full-Day Tour to Las Coloradas Pink Paradise in Yucatan and Rio Lagartos.
4. Cenotes (Tulum)
Tulum is an increasingly popular destination in Mexico, with more visitors heading here each day. It is situated nearby the Caribbean Sea, offering stunning views of the water and an array of white sandy beaches to lounge on. The biggest draw for travelers is the cenotes, or sinkholes, that feature crystal clear water and diverse backdrops.
These cenotes are found within caves or in open-air environments surrounded by lush forests. Each cenote offers a different experience, though they all provide a unique experience that you won’t want to miss!
Skip the tour search by enjoying this Cenote Triple Adventure Tour in Tulum.
5. Isla Ixtapa
Isla Ixtapa, or Ixtapa Island, is a small idyllic island in the Pacific Ocean off Zihuatanejo, nearby Guerrero State. It’s a popular spot for scuba divers and those seeking a less-trafficked area with excellent beaches.
This island provides the opportunity to live the island life by enjoying a nap in a hammock, eating freshly caught fish, and taking a break from technology (no electricity on the island). Explore the incredible coral reefs with brightly colored fish or sunbathe on the beach on Ixtapa Island.
Spend a half-day in Isla Ixtapa lounging on the beach and snorkeling: Ixtapa Island Escape.
6. Cholula Archeological Site (Cholula)
The Cholula Archeological Site is home to the largest pyramid in the world (based on volume) – the Great Pyramid of Cholula. Temples surround this pyramid, thought to be created for and dedicated to Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent god.
This archeological site was built in four stages, beginning around 200 BC. Once built, it was used as a place of worship and as a burial ground. Head to this ancient site to view incredible murals and learn about the history of this unique site.
Tour Cholula and historic temples of Puebla in one trip: Private Tour to Cholula and Puebla.
7. National Museum of Anthropology (Mexico City)
The National Museum of Anthropology is another popular stop for many when visiting Mexico City. It holds an impressive collection of age-old Mexican art (largest worldwide). Information on indigenous groups present in Mexico is found in exhibits spread throughout the museum.
There are also multiple recreations of some of the top archeological ruins in Mexico, making it an excellent stop for those who can’t visit the ruins in person. Start exploring the museum with the exhibits on the right side first, as this route looks at the evolution of different cultures in Mexico.
Learn about the artifacts found in the National Museum of Anthropology by tour: Guided Tour National Museum of Anthropology.
8. Palenque Ruins (Chiapas)
The Palenque Ruins are another UNESCO World Heritage Site. These ruins are situated in a thick forest, with wild animals like scarlet macaws flying through the trees. The lush forest and the ruins create the Palenque National Forest.
What makes these ruins unique is the Mayan portraits found as carvings and many palaces on the property. The stucco details found on the buildings also set the Palenque Ruins apart from the rest. Palenque is one of the only sites that allows you to climb the pyramids for a bird’s eye view of the uncovered structures.
Stop by the on-site museum to view Mayan artifacts found at the ruins.
Tour Palenque and the nearby Agua Azul waterfalls here: Palenque Archaeological Site with Agua Azul and Misol-Ha from Palenque.
9. Cooper Canyon (Chihuahua)
Copper Canyon is comprised of 20 canyons which were created by six different rivers. This canyon area is often compared to the Grand Canyon. However, the landscape is much different, with lush greenery spread between the canyons.
This canyon is perfect for those who enjoy spending time in the outdoors, with options for hiking, biking, and even riding horses on the trails. Peak season is between October and March, so make sure to schedule a tour before traveling to Mexico.
Enjoy all the major sites at Copper Canyon with this tour: Copper Canyon Tour.
10. Guanajuato State
The state of Guanajuato holds the last spot for top attractions in Mexico. This city, rich with history, is home to some of the most interesting legends in Mexico. Guanajuato’s history is visible through sites like the old silver mines, monuments, and museums. This state is where the famous artist Diego Rivera was born.
Each year, Guanajuato holds incredible cultural festivals, religious celebrations, and live music events providing a look into the area’s culture. Make sure to add Guanajuato to your list of things to do while visiting Mexico.
Explore the brightly-colored colonial buildings and see the top tourist attractions on a private walking tour here: Guanajuato Walking Tour.
Mexico is much more than pristine beaches! It’s a culturally and historically rich area featuring breathtaking nature scenes. Visiting the above attractions and locations will provide a look into the history and beauty of Mexico. Enjoy an unforgettable trip by touring through this stunning country!
References:
https://www.inah.gob.mx/zonas/146-zona-arqueologica-de-chichen-itza
https://www.villaway.com/magazine/visiting-pink-lakes-las-coloradas-111808
https://www.islandlifemexico.com/best-cenotes-in-yucatan/
https://www.inspirock.com/mexico/ixtapa/isla-ixtapa-a15812671
https://www.heritagedaily.com/2020/07/the-great-pyramid-of-cholula/134122
https://museu.ms/museum/details/16762/national-museum-of-anthropology
https://www.history.com/topics/mexico/guanajuato
https://www.mexperience.com/travel/outdoors/copper-canyon-mexico/
https://www.jonesaroundtheworld.com/famous-landmarks-in-mexico/
https://toptravellists.com/tourist-attractions-in-mexico/
https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/mexico/articles/20-must-visit-attractions-in-mexico/
https://www.ixtapazihuatanejomexico.com/beaches/ixtapa-island.html
