How to plan a trip to Mexico

Planning your first trip to Mexico might feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be. Mexico is vast—about the size of Western Europe—and each of its 32 states offers something unique. The key is to plan ahead and to take the planning step by step. This guide will cover everything you need to know, from the best times to visit (spoiler: every season has its perks) to choosing between regions and managing costs. Whether you're dreaming of exploring Maya ruins, sampling street tacos in Mexico City, or simply lounging on a Caribbean beach, here's how to plan a trip to Mexico. 

Step 1: Define your trip's parameters

When to do this: 3-5 months before (6+ months for Christmas/New Year or Day of the Dead periods)

The first step in planning your trip is figuring out when and how long you want to go. You’ll want to give yourself at least 3-5 months to plan, or longer for peak travel seasons. It’ll be easier in general to break up the planning into smaller steps: first. Don’t stress—Mexico has something great in every season, and taking your time will help you make the most of it. 

If you're unsure, our sample itineraries can give you a solid starting point: 14 days in Mexico, 10 days in Mexico, 7 days in Mexico.

Decisions to make:

• What time of year to go?
• How much to spend?
• How many days are enough? 

When's the best time to visit Mexico?

When you visit Mexico can make a big difference in your experience and how much you spend. Peak season (mid-December through Easter) has the best weather but also the biggest crowds and highest prices. 

The shoulder season (July-August) is when you’ll be joined by summer vacationers and occasional rain, while the low season (May-June, September-November) has fewer tourists and better prices, though the weather can be hit or miss. Keep in mind that different regions have different climates— for example, Los Cabos stays dry year-round, while Cancún and the Yucatán Peninsula have a rainy season. 

What months are hurricane seasons?

Hurricane season runs from June to November, with the biggest risk between August and October. This mostly affects the Caribbean and Gulf Coast, though the Pacific side can get storms too, just not as often. If you're traveling during this time, getting travel insurance is a good idea. That said, plenty of people still visit during hurricane season and enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds. 

What festivals is Mexico known for?

Mexico has a deep tradition of festivals, here are a few that some might want to travel for:

• Day of the Dead (November 1-2): Mexico’s most famous festival, celebrating loved ones who have passed with decorated altars, candlelit cemeteries, and lively parades. Oaxaca and Pátzcuaro are some of the best places to experience it.
• Guelaguetza (July): Oaxaca’s biggest cultural event, featuring traditional dances, music, and costumes from different Indigenous communities. It’s an incredible way to see the region’s rich traditions.
• Independence Day (September 16): Festivities kick off the night before with El Grito, a patriotic cry led by the president. Expect fireworks, music, and street parties everywhere.
• Carnival (February/March): Cities like Mazatlán and Veracruz throw massive parades, costume contests, and street parties. Each place adds its own unique spin to the celebrations. 

How much does a trip to Mexico usually cost?

Mexico works for all budgets, but prices vary depending on where you go. Beach resorts like Cancún and Los Cabos are expensive, while Oaxaca and Guanajuato are more affordable. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Budget (MXN 800-1,500 / $45-85 per day): Basic hotels or hostels, street food and local restaurants, public transport, and entry to main attractions. Staying outside tourist areas and eating at markets will save you money.
• Mid-range (MXN 1,500-3,000 / $85-170 per day): Comfortable hotels, a mix of dining options, private transport or domestic flights, and guided tours. Most international travelers fall into this range.
• Luxury (MXN 3,000+ / $170+ per day): High-end resorts, fine dining, private tours, and premium experiences. Prices skyrocket in places like Tulum, Cabo, and the Riviera Maya. 

How many days are enough for Mexico?

Mexico is massive, so don’t try to cram in too much. A solid first-time itinerary should be at least two weeks to explore multiple areas without feeling rushed. Here’s a rough guide:

• Mexico City: 4-5 days for museums, history, and food. More information can be found in how many days to spend in Mexico City.
• Oaxaca: 3-4 days for markets, mezcal, and traditional crafts.
• Yucatán Peninsula: 5-7 days for Mayan ruins, cenotes, and beaches.
• Beach Destinations: 4-5 days for relaxation, snorkeling, and nightlife.
• Colonial Cities (San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato): 2-3 days to soak in the charm.

If you have less time, focus on one or two regions rather than trying to see everything at once. Mexico is a place you'll want to come back to.

Step 2: Make your trip "wish list"

When to do this: 3-5 months before

Now’s the time to map out everything you want to see and do. Think of it as a dream list — nothing is off-limits yet. Pinning locations on a map is a great way to get organized, helping you visualize distances and plan a logical route.

Traveling with others? Use Google Maps’ list feature or a shared Google Doc to gather everyone’s must-sees. This keeps ideas in one place, avoids duplicate research, and helps build an itinerary that works for everyone. Mexico is packed with incredible destinations, from ancient ruins to bustling cities, so planning ahead ensures you don’t miss any of the best places to visit in Mexico.

What are the most important cities to see in Mexico?

Mexico’s cities each have a distinct character, shaped by their colonial past, indigenous influences, and contemporary energy. If it’s your first time in Mexico, here are some top picks:

• Mexico City (Ciudad de México): The capital is packed with world-class museums, ancient ruins, and trendy neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma. Visit Chapultepec Castle for city views, explore the floating gardens of Xochimilco, and dive into the food scene.
• Oaxaca City (Oaxaca de Juárez): A cultural hub known for its colonial churches, lively markets, and incredible cuisine. Highlights include the Santo Domingo church complex, the Zócalo, and the surrounding valleys. Skip restaurants on Saturdays and join locals at the Mercado 20 de Noviembre’s smoky meat hall instead.
• San Miguel de Allende: A perfectly preserved colonial town filled with stunning architecture, art galleries, and boutique hotels. The Parroquia’s pink spires and cobblestone streets are picture-perfect. For the best sunset views, head to a rooftop bar with cathedral-facing seats.
• Guanajuato: A colorful university town built into a narrow valley, featuring underground tunnels and winding alleyways. Must-sees include the Mummy Museum and Teatro Juárez.
• Mérida: The Yucatán’s cultural capital combines colonial architecture, Mayan heritage, and fantastic food. Stroll down Paseo Montejo, explore the markets, and visit nearby haciendas. On Sundays, the city center turns into a massive street festival—don’t miss it.
• Puerto Vallarta: This beach city blends colonial charm with modern amenities along Banderas Bay. Walk the Malecón, explore Old Town’s galleries, and take a water taxi to hidden beaches like Yelapa. If visiting in winter, keep an eye out for humpback whales.
• San Cristóbal de las Casas: A highland town surrounded by indigenous villages, featuring colonial churches and artisan markets. Visit the local markets and coffee shops for a deeper look into Chiapas culture. 
• Puebla: A colonial city known for its ornate churches, Talavera pottery, and outstanding food. Visit the Chapel of the Rosary, the Zócalo, and the Cholula Pyramid. 

What are the best beach destinations?

Mexico has over 5,800 miles (9,330 km) of coastline: the Caribbean side is known for its warm, clear waters and sandy beaches, while the Pacific offers strong waves and dramatic cliffs. Some beaches are lively with resorts and nightlife, while others are quiet and more off the beaten path. 

• Riviera Maya: This Caribbean stretch includes beaches like Playacar and Akumal, along with cenotes for swimming. Tulum’s coastline has a mix of beachside restaurants and ancient ruins. 
• Los Cabos: A region where desert landscapes meet the ocean. Medano Beach has gentle waves for swimming, while the Pacific-facing beaches are good for watching the sunset. Whale watching season runs from October to March.
• Riviera Nayarit: This coastline includes beach towns like Sayulita and San Pancho, along with more secluded coves. It’s a good spot for both swimming and surfing. The Marietas Islands’ Hidden Beach requires a permit but is worth the effort.
• Pacific Coast: Acapulco and Zihuatanejo have very different atmospheres, while Puerto Escondido is a well-known surf destination. Huatulco’s bays provide quieter beaches
• Costa Maya: A less-developed alternative to the Riviera Maya, with small beach towns like Mahahual and Xcalak. The nearby reef system makes this a great spot for snorkeling and diving. 
• Costalegre: This section of Jalisco’s coastline includes beaches like Careyes and Chamela Bay, with limited development keeping them relatively quiet.
• Cancun: Find all you need to know about Cancun in our itinerary guide.

Which archaeological sites should you visit?

Mexico has over 200,000 registered archaeological sites, though only a fraction are open to visitors. These ruins reveal the engineering, astronomy, and governance of ancient civilizations, from the Zapotecs to the Maya

• Monte Albán: This Zapotec city (500 BCE-850 CE) sits on a mountaintop with views of Oaxaca Valley. The Grand Plaza, astronomical observatory, and intricate tombs highlight advanced urban planning. Visit in the late afternoon when the sunlight casts long shadows over the plaza.
• Palenque: Deep in the Chiapas jungle, this Classic Maya site (600-750 CE) contains intricate carvings and well-preserved structures. The Temple of Inscriptions, the Palace, and the Temple of the Cross group are key highlights. Arrive early when it’s cooler and less crowded.
• Uxmal: A Puuc-style Maya city (700-1000 CE) known for its finely detailed architecture. The Pyramid of the Magician, Nunnery Quadrangle, and Governor’s Palace feature geometric stonework. The western section of the site is quieter, with fewer visitors.
• El Tajín: A Classic Veracruz site (600-1200 CE) famous for the Pyramid of the Niches and numerous ball courts. Its distinct architecture and carved reliefs depict ritual ballgames and ceremonies. Visit during the spring equinox to see the Voladores ceremony.

Best natural wonders

Mexico has a mix of landscapes, from volcanoes and canyons to coral reefs and dense forests, each supporting different ecosystems. Some places are shaped by shifting tectonic plates, while others have developed unusual geological features over time, creating habitats for rare wildlife. 

• Monarch Butterfly Reserves (2-3 days): Every winter, millions of monarch butterflies cluster in the oyamel fir forests of Michoacán. El Rosario and Sierra Chincua sanctuaries offer the best viewing between December and March.
• Sumidero Canyon (1 day): A 1,000-meter-deep canyon in Chiapas with limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Two-hour boat tours from Chiapa de Corzo offer the best views, especially in the morning.
• Hierve el Agua (1 day): These mineral formations in Oaxaca resemble frozen waterfalls. At the top, natural pools overlook the valley. The site also has ancient Zapotec irrigation channels and hiking trails.
• Sian Ka’an Biosphere (2-3 days): A UNESCO reserve south of Tulum that includes forests, wetlands, and coral reefs. Ancient Maya canals cut through the mangroves, where manatees, crocodiles, and numerous bird species live.

Best hiking trails and national parks

Mexico has a range of hiking trails, from cloud forests and volcanic craters to high-altitude routes with sweeping views. Many national parks have clearly marked paths that make it easy to explore these landscapes on foot.

• Nevado de Toluca National Park: This extinct volcano has two crater lakes at 4,200 meters. The Crater Trail (4 km) offers a scenic loop, while the Summit Trail (6 km) reaches the 4,680-meter peak. Best visited November-March for clear skies.
• Izta-Popo National Park: This park includes Mexico’s second and third-highest volcanoes. The La Joya-Grupo de los Cien trail (8 km) on Iztaccíhuatl is a high-altitude route with glacier views. The Paso de Cortés trail provides views of both peaks.
• Desierto de los Leones: A former monastery turned national park near Mexico City, with easy pine forest trails. The Camino Real (5 km) and Cruz Blanca (3 km) trails pass through historic sites and offer city views. A good option for acclimatization before higher-altitude hikes.

Where can you go off-the-beaten-path?

Some of Mexico’s most interesting places take a little extra effort to get to, but they’re worth it. These spots offer diverse landscapes, strong local traditions, and fewer tourists.

• Huasteca Potosina: Reachable via San Luis Potosí airport or a six-hour bus ride from Mexico City. This region has turquoise waterfalls like Tamul and Micos, plus Las Pozas, a surreal jungle garden by Edward James. Stay in Ciudad Valles and book a waterfall-jumping tour with local guides.
• Mascota: A two-hour drive from Puerto Vallarta through the Sierra Madre mountains, this colonial Pueblo Mágico offers hiking, archaeological sites, and raicilla (a local agave spirit). Join the locals for a weekend barbacoa at a mountain ranch.
• Cuetzalan: A four-hour bus ride from Puebla leads to this mountain town where indigenous Nahua traditions are strong. Watch the Voladores (flying dancers) and visit coffee plantations. The Sunday market still operates on a barter system.
• Cuatro Ciénegas: Fly into Monterrey, then drive four hours or take a bus to this desert oasis. The area has white sand dunes, spring-fed pools, and unique microorganisms. Kayak through the wetlands and cycle between the pools in this “Mexican Galapagos.”

Step 3: Start your administration tasks

When to do this: 2-3 months before

Taking care of things like visas, vaccinations, and insurance ahead of time gives you enough room to handle any surprises and adjust plans if needed. 
Decisions to make:

• What administrative tasks need to be done ahead of time?
• Do you need a visa?

Do you need a visa to go to Mexico?

Most travelers need a tourist permit (FMM - Forma Migratoria Múltiple), but the process depends on your nationality. If you're from the US, Canada, or an EU country, you can get one on arrival, and it’s valid for up to 180 days. 

If you’re flying in, the cost is usually included in your ticket, but if you're entering by land, expect to pay around $30. You'll need a passport valid for at least six months, proof of onward travel, and sometimes proof of sufficient funds. Hold onto your FMM—losing it means extra fees and a bureaucratic headache when you leave.

What vaccines do you need for Mexico?

Mexico doesn’t require any vaccines for entry, but a few are smart to get. Make sure your routine vaccines (like MMR and DPT) are up to date. Hepatitis A and typhoid shots are recommended, especially if you plan to eat a lot of street food or visit rural areas. 

Depending on your plans, hepatitis B might also be a good idea. Malaria prevention is rarely needed for most tourist spots, but if you’re heading to certain rural areas in the south, it’s worth checking. Travel insurance with medical coverage is a must—it can save you a ton of hassle if you need emergency treatment. 

Step 4: Planning the core of your Mexico itinerary

When to do this: 2-3 months before

Many underestimate how much time it takes to get around—Mexico is huge, and even short flights or bus rides can take half a day once you factor in waiting times. A well-thought-out but flexible itinerary makes for a much better trip. 

Decisions to make:

• How many places can you visit during your trip?
• How will you travel from place to place?
• Should you rent a car?
• How many days of your trip do you want to be traveling?

How do you get around Mexico?

Mexico has plenty of transportation options, depending on your budget and route. Domestic airlines like Volaris, Aeromexico, and VivaAerobus offer cheap flights if you book ahead. First-class buses are also a great option—ADO is a solid choice in the south and central regions, while ETN and Primera Plus run in the central and northern parts of the country. For shorter distances, colectivos (shared vans) are a cheap and frequent way to get around. Uber works well in major cities but isn’t always available everywhere.  

Should you rent a car in Mexico?

Renting a car makes sense in some areas but not everywhere. The Yucatán Peninsula is great for road trips, with well-maintained roads and easy navigation. On the flip side, Mexico City’s traffic and driving restrictions make it more hassle than it’s worth. Liability insurance is required by law and isn’t usually covered by international policies or credit cards, so factor in that extra cost. Toll roads (cuotas) are the safest and fastest way to cover long distances, but they can be pricey—expect to pay $20-30 per segment. At gas stations, always check that the pump starts at zero, and have cash on hand.  

Buffer day planning

Adding buffer days to your itinerary can make a huge difference. If you're heading to Mexico City (7,350 feet elevation), take it easy for the first couple of days to adjust before diving into intense activities or drinking. Leaving room for flexibility also helps with unexpected delays—whether it's a late bus, a flight change, or just wanting to stay somewhere longer. These extra days give you the freedom to explore spontaneously or unwind when needed.

Combining regions

Mexico’s well-connected transport system makes it easy to visit different regions in a single trip. That said, it’s likely you won’t see all of Mexico in one go. Here are some great combinations of areas to visit. 

• Mexico City + Oaxaca: A trip that highlights Mexico’s food, art, and history. Start in Mexico City for museums and markets, then head to Oaxaca for indigenous culture, mezcal distilleries, and archaeological sites.
• Cancún + Mérida + Tulum: A mix of beaches and Maya history. Relax on Cancún’s coast, visit Mérida for colonial-era streets and cenotes, and finish in Tulum for its coastal ruins and relaxed atmosphere. 
• San Miguel + Guanajuato + Querétaro: Explore Mexico’s independence-era cities. Each has its own distinct architecture, art scene, and regional food, all linked by a reliable bus network.
• Pacific Coast combination: Combine Puerto Vallarta’s developed beach scene with Sayulita’s smaller surf town atmosphere. A good mix of resort comforts and laid-back coastal life.
• Copper Canyon + Los Cabos: Travel on the El Chepe train through the canyons, then head to Los Cabos for beach time. A good way to balance outdoor adventure with a slower-paced coastal stay.

Step 5: Lock in your major bookings 

When to do this: 2-3 months before (4+ months for high season)

Booking key reservations ahead of time helps keep your trip on track and reduces stress. Flights, accommodations, and certain activities can fill up quickly, especially during busy seasons, so planning early gives you better availability and prices. Waiting too long can mean fewer options and higher costs, which can make trip planning more complicated.

Decisions to make:

• How are you getting to Mexico?
• Where to stay?

How to get to Mexico from the US

Mexico is well connected to the US, with direct flights from many major cities to places like Mexico City, Cancún, and Los Cabos. Airlines range from budget carriers to full-service options, with common routes including Los Angeles to Mexico City, Miami to Cancún, and Houston to Monterrey. Flight times vary from 2-5 hours. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, consider flying into secondary airports like Tijuana, which can be reached via the Cross Border Xpress from San Diego. 

How to save money on plane tickets

Planning ahead can help you get better deals on flights to Mexico. Booking international flights 3-4 months in advance often results in better fares. Midweek flights are usually cheaper than weekend departures, and flying into alternative airports can sometimes save money—for example, Puerto Vallarta may have lower fares than Los Cabos for reaching the Pacific coast. Budget airlines like Volaris and VivaAerobus can offer good deals, but be mindful of extra fees.  

Driving to Mexico

Driving into Mexico gives you quite a bit of flexibility but it requires some preparation. Popular border crossings include Tijuana, Nogales, and Laredo. To drive legally, you'll need a valid passport, vehicle registration, Mexican auto insurance, and in most cases, a temporary vehicle import permit (except for Baja California). Cross early in the day to avoid long waits, and stick to major highways. Some rental car companies don’t allow their vehicles to be taken into Mexico, so check the policies before making plans. If you cross the border frequently, a BorderFast pass can make the process smoother.

Where should you stay in Mexico?

Mexico has a wide range of accommodations, from large resorts to smaller boutique hotels and vacation rentals. Booking ahead is important during the high season (December-April) and major festivals. Colonial cities often have boutique hotels in restored historic buildings, while coastal destinations feature resorts and condos. If you’re headed to the capital, see our guide for where to stay in Mexico City.

Step 6: Plan and book activities 

When to do this: 1-2 months before

Planning ahead helps you lock in must-see attractions and avoid disappointment. Some tours and tickets sell out fast, so booking early ensures you get the time slots you want. A lot of people assume they can just book last minute, only to find limited options or higher prices. 

Decisions to make:

• What activities are most important?
• What attractions need advance booking?
• What adventure activities do you want to do?
• What food do you want to be sure to try?

What attractions need advance booking?

You’ll definitely want to get ahead of the game for these attractions, as they are some of the best things to do in Mexico:

• Frida Kahlo Museum (Mexico City): If you’re going during peak season, book your tickets at least 2-3 months ahead. Entry is by timed slots from 10:00-17:30, and the museum is closed on Mondays. Want to take photos inside? You’ll need to buy a separate photo permit online before your visit.
• Xochimilco Floating Gardens (Mexico City): Boat rides get busy on weekends, especially in high season. If you want a quieter experience, go in the morning (9-11 AM). Stick with authorized vendors to avoid overpaying.
• Chichén Itzá Night Show (Yucatán): The "Nights of Kukulkán" light show has only 300 tickets per night and sells out weeks in advance. Shows run in different languages, so check before booking. The best way to secure a ticket is through the official CULTUR website.
• Tulum Archaeological Zone (Riviera Maya): Early access tickets (before 8 AM) are limited to 300 visitors per hour and should be booked a month in advance during peak season. If you want to visit at sunset, you’ll need a special permit.

What adventure activities can you do?

There are plenty of adventure activities in Mexico, but here are a few I recommend: 

• Cave diving (Tulum): Explore underground rivers and cenotes with professional guides. The clear waters and rock formations make for a unique diving experience.
• Mountain biking (Copper Canyon): Ride along historic trails connecting remote Tarahumara villages. Multi-day trips include camping along the canyon rim and opportunities to meet local communities.
• Whale watching (Los Cabos): Gray whales migrate here from December to April. Small boats offer a chance to see them up close in protected lagoons.
• Rock climbing (El Potrero Chico): This area is known for its limestone cliffs and multi-pitch routes. Climbing is possible year-round, but the best conditions are from October to March.
• Surfing (Puerto Escondido): The waves at Zicatela Beach, also known as the Mexican Pipeline, are challenging for experienced surfers. Nearby beaches have smaller waves that are good for beginners.

What should you see in Mexico City?

If you’re headed for the capital, there is plenty to do (in fact, we have an entire guide on what to do in Mexico City). Here are a few must-sees:

• National Museum of Anthropology: Houses the world's largest collection of ancient Mexican art and artifacts. The iconic Aztec Sun Stone anchors extensive exhibits from every major Mesoamerican civilization. The museum's modern building seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor spaces, including a dramatic concrete umbrella waterfall.
• Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul): The blue-walled family home where Frida Kahlo lived and worked. Preserved exactly as she left it, with her art supplies, Mexican folk art collection, and personal items. The garden features pre-Hispanic-style pyramids and native plants.
• Chapultepec Castle: North America's only royal castle, perched on a hill in the continent's largest urban park. Former residence of Mexican emperors and presidents, now housing the National History Museum with period rooms and panoramic city views.
• Xochimilco Canals: UNESCO heritage site featuring ancient chinampas (floating gardens) still used for agriculture. Traditional trajinera boats navigate canals unchanged since Aztec times. Sunday afternoons showcase local families enjoying music and food.
• Mercado de la Merced: Mexico City's largest traditional market, spanning multiple city blocks. Specialty sections include the country's biggest chile and mole vendors, fresh produce, and regional specialties. The historic building dates to colonial times.

What should you eat in Mexico?

For many, Mexican food is a great reason alone to visit Mexico. Mealtimes are later than in the U.S.—lunch is the biggest meal of the day, usually between 2 and 4 p.m., while dinner is often lighter and around 8 or 9 p.m.  

Mexico City must-tries

Mexico City’s food scene is all about tacos al pastor, and for good reason. This UNESCO-recognized classic starts with pork marinated for 24 hours, then slow-roasted on a vertical spit with pineapple, giving it that perfect mix of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors.   But there’s plenty more to try: chilaquiles (breakfast tortilla casserole), pozole (hominy stew served Thursday and Sunday), and pescado a la veracruzana (fish in olive-caper sauce). Some places you don’t want to miss are:

• El Cardenal (since 1969): Known for traditional breakfast featuring hand-pressed tortillas and house-made nata (clotted cream). Their signature escamoles (ant larvae) in season are prepared using pre-Hispanic techniques passed down through generations.
• Pujol (since 2000): Chef Enrique Olvera's famous "mole madre" has been continuously cooking for over 2,000 days. The dish combines fresh mole with aged mole, creating complex layers of flavor that showcase Mexican sauce-making traditions.
• El Huequito (since 1959): Masters of tacos al pastor use specially trimmed pork and sharpen their knives hourly for the perfect meat slice. Their secret adobo marinade recipe remains unchanged since opening. 

Oaxacan specialties

Oaxaca's culinary crown jewel is mole negro, recognized by UNESCO as part of Mexico's intangible cultural heritage. Traditional preparation requires exactly 32 ingredients, including seven varieties of chilies that must be charred and ground by hand on stone metates over three days. Essential local specialties include tlayudas (giant tortillas topped with black beans and quesillo), chapulines (toasted grasshoppers with lime and chile), and memelas (thick corn patties with toppings).

• Casa Oaxaca (since 1995): Chef Alejandro Ruiz creates each mole negro batch over three days, using chilies sourced from specific mountain villages. Their signature dish requires toasting ingredients at precise temperatures in clay pots, following centuries-old techniques.
• La Teca (since 1976): Deyanira Aquino preserves Istmeño cooking traditions in her historic home kitchen. Their garnachas istmeñas use hand-pressed corn tortillas made from native corn varieties, topped with beef braised for 12 hours.
• Itanoní (since 2001): Dedicated to preserving heritage corn varieties, they nixtamalize different types of corn daily. Their tetelas are made exclusively with rare blue corn from the Mixteca Alta region, ground fresh each morning.

Yucatecan dishes

The Yucatán's signature cochinita pibil has emerged from ancient Maya cooking traditions. Authentic preparation requires marinating pork in achiote and bitter orange juice, then slow-cooking underground in banana leaves for at least eight hours. Regional must-tries include papadzules (egg-filled tortillas in pumpkin seed sauce), sopa de lima (citrus turkey soup), and poc chuc (charcoal-grilled citrus pork).

• La Chaya Maya (since 1933): Uses a traditional pib (underground oven) for their acclaimed cochinita pibil. Their achiote paste combines hand-selected seeds from local Maya farmers with bitter oranges harvested from their own trees.
• Kinich (since 1985): Masters of relleno negro, using local turkey and a secret blend of charred chilies. Each batch of sauce requires two days of careful preparation, including specifically timed charring of each chili variety.
• K'u'uk (since 2015): Specializes in modernized recados (spice pastes) using traditional ingredients. Their signature papadzules incorporate hand-ground pumpkin seeds toasted in a specific sequence passed down through generations.

Coastal seafood

Along Mexico's Pacific coast, pescado a la talla represents the epitome of grilled fish preparation, originating in Guerrero's coastal communities. The dish demands butterflying a whole fish, marinating it in red chili paste, and grilling over mangrove wood. Essential coastal dishes include aguachile (citrus-cured shrimp), pulpo zarandeado (grilled octopus), and pescado a la veracruzana (tomato-olive sauce fish).

• Contramar (Mexico City, since 1998): Famous for their two-toned grilled fish, split between red adobo and parsley sauces. Each fish is selected daily from sustainable fisheries and grilled over specific hardwoods to control smoke levels.
• La Guerrerense (Ensenada, since 1960): Sabina Bandera's legendary seafood tostadas feature sea urchin and pismo clams harvested daily. Their signature aguachile uses a secret blend of chilies and citrus that's prepared fresh hourly.
• Mariscos El Torito (Puerto Vallarta, since 1968): Pioneered pescado zarandeado with a closely guarded adobo recipe. Their marination process takes 24 hours, and fish is grilled on specially designed grills at varying heights for optimal smoke exposure.

Step 7: The last minute details

When to do this: 2-4 weeks before

Now with just a few weeks left before your trip to Mexico, you can use your time to pack and figure out the last few details for your trip.

Decisions to make:

• How do you stay connected?
• What should you pack?
• Other details to check

How do you stay connected in Mexico?

Staying online in Mexico is pretty simple. If you want reliable service, grab a local SIM card from Telcel or AT&T Mexico at an OXXO store—just bring your passport. If swapping SIMs sounds like a hassle, eSIM options like Airalo or Holafly let you set everything up before you even land. Wi-Fi is easy to find in hotels, cafes, and restaurants, though speeds can be hit or miss. In bigger cities like Mexico City and Cancún, you’ll find public Wi-Fi, but don’t count on it everywhere.  

What currency is used in Mexico?

The Mexican Peso (MXN) is what you’ll want to use. Some tourist spots take US dollars, but the exchange rates aren’t great, so you’re better off using pesos for everything. Credit cards work well in cities and touristy areas, but cash is a must for street food, markets, and smaller places. Let your bank know you’re traveling and have a backup payment option, just in case.

Where can you find ATMs in Mexico?

For the best rates, use ATMs from major banks like BBVA, Santander, or Citibanamex. Stick to ATMs inside banks or shopping malls—they’re safer than the stand-alone ones in touristy areas. Try to withdraw cash during the day and stay aware of your surroundings. Bank-owned ATMs usually have lower fees than independent ones, and if your bank has a partner in Mexico, you might get reduced withdrawal fees. In most cases, ATMs give you a better exchange rate than currency exchange booths.

What should you pack for Mexico?

What you pack depends on where you’re going. Mexico City’s weather changes throughout the day, so layers are key—bring a light jacket and rain gear. For the coast, pack reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, and light, breathable clothes. 

If you’re visiting colonial towns, comfy shoes are a must for walking on cobblestone streets, and you’ll want a light sweater for cooler nights. If you plan to visit churches or traditional areas, modest clothing is a good idea. A reusable shopping bag is handy for market trips, and a filtered water bottle helps cut down on plastic waste. 

Mexico with kids

Mexico is with kids is a wonderful experience, but a little planning goes a long way. Many colonial cities have fun, kid-friendly museums, cultural centers, and plazas where kids can roam freely. Beach resorts often have kids' clubs and safe swimming areas. If you’re heading to Mexico City, keep in mind the high altitude—plan outdoor activities in the morning and allow for rest breaks. Some archaeological sites have guides who specialize in making history fun for kids. If possible, book a stay with a kitchen for easy meal prep, and bring familiar snacks to keep picky eaters happy. 

Planning a honeymoon in Mexico

Planning a honeymoon in Mexico? There are a few things to keep in mind to make it extra special. Resorts in places like Los Cabos or the Riviera Maya make for a stress-free stay, while boutique hotels in San Miguel de Allende or Oaxaca are a more intimate getaway.

To make the most of your honeymoon, you can book special experiences like a private cenote swim, a sunset cruise, or a couples’ spa day. If you’re traveling in peak season (December-April), plan ahead to secure the best hotels and activities. For fewer crowds and better prices, you might want to consider the shoulder seasons—May-June or September-November. 

Planning a trip to Mexico with experts

If you’re head is spinning from information, you’re not alone. Figuring out these details takes hours of research and planning. With our tailor made trips, you can go on a trip custom designed for you by a local travel expert who knows the ins and outs of the area. You’ll also have support 24/7 during your trip.

Take your time and remember to enjoy

It’s easy to feel the pressure to rush through all the must-see attractions, but some of the best parts of Mexico come from those quiet moments when you slow down. Now that you’re all set, let go of the need to check off every box and focus on enjoying the experience — truly the best thing to do in Mexico. If you’re looking for inspiration, see our trip ideas gallery.