Cancún’s sprawling resorts and overdeveloped hotel zone are expensive—and touristy. Though most tourists flock to the beach town, there are dozens of incredible cities in Mexico just waiting to be discovered.
Experience cultural festivals in Oaxaca unlike any other in the world, stroll the colorful streets of Guanajuato, and uncover some of the most stunning waterfalls in Central America in La Huasteca Potosina—Mexico is a diverse country with so much more to offer tourists than chain resorts.
Skip Cancún for these incredible Mexican cities instead:
San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato
San Miguel de Allende, an energetic escape in Mexico’s Guanajuato state, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its cobblestone streets, Baroque architecture, and colorful buildings.
This is arguably one of Mexico’s most artistic cities, with galleries, studios, and boutiques showcasing the work of local artisans. The town’s artistic pedigree is celebrated annually during festivals like the San Miguel Writers’ Conference and Day of the Dead celebrations, which fill the streets with parades and decorated altars.
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca
Trade crowded Cancún for Puerto Escondido, a laid-back town on Mexico’s Pacific coast and one of the best affordable beach destinations for solo travelers. Playa Zicatela is a mecca for surfers from around the world for its powerful waves, while Playa Carrizalillo’s tranquility invites visitors to lay back and relax. After dark, explore Manialtepec Lagoon, where you can take a boat tour through the mangroves, spot exotic birds, and experience the magical bioluminescence that lights up the water at night.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the bohemian beachside cafes for huevos rancheros and tlayudas—a giant, crispy tortilla topped with beans, cheese, and a variety of meats and veggies. For lunch, sit down at a beachfront palapa and feast on a plate of pescado a la talla, a regional specialty of marinated grilled fish.
Tequila, Jalisco
You’ve probably heard of tequila, the spirit, but you might not realize that it’s also a city and UNESCO World Heritage site in Mexico. Tequila, Jalisco, is the birthplace of the world-famous spirit that shares its name. Visit the Jose Cuervo Distillery, the oldest in Latin America, for an in-depth tour and tasting session as you walk through blue agave fields or stay at Hotel Matices de Barricas to sleep in a giant tequila barrel. Stroll through the Plaza Principal and admire the Parroquia Santiago Apóstol, a beautiful 18th-century church.
Tequila offers more than just distilleries. Explore the Tequila Volcano for stunning hikes and panoramic views of the agave landscape. Or, take a ride on the Jose Cuervo Express, a luxury train journey from Guadalajara to Tequila complete with live entertainment and, yes, more tequila tasting.
Mérida, Yucatán
Just a few hours from Cancún is Mérida, the capital of the Yucatán known as the “white city” for its white-stone buildings. The heart of Mérida is the Plaza Grande, where you’ll find the Merida Cathedral and the Government Palace. Visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya to explore its extensive collection of Mayan artifacts, then head to Cenote Ik Kil or Cenote Xlacah to swim in natural beauty.
Merida is a gateway to the ancient Mayan world. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the magnificent ruins of Uxmal and Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. These archaeological sites offer a profound glimpse into Mexico’s ancient history and are a must-visit for any traveler.
Puebla, Puebla
Puebla’s Zócalo is a historic square surrounded by notable landmarks like the Puebla Cathedral and the ornate Rosary Chapel, renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture. It’s a far cry from the beaches of Cancún but one totally unique to Mexico. The Amparo Museum houses an impressive collection of pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern art, while the Biblioteca Palafoxiana, the oldest public library in the Americas, offers a glimpse into Mexico’s literary past.
For nature lovers, Puebla’s surroundings are equally impressive. The nearby Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes offer stunning views and hiking opportunities. A short trip to Cholula reveals the Great Pyramid, the largest pyramid by volume in the world, with a church perched on top providing panoramic views.
Guadalajara, Jalisco
This dynamic city is Mexico’s second-largest metropolis, brimming with history and culture. The grand Plaza de Armas is flanked by the majestic Guadalajara Cathedral while nearby, the Instituto Cultural Cabañas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the stunning murals of José Clemente Orozco, offering a deep dive into Mexican art and history. Add The Mercado Libertad, or San Juan de Dios Market to your itinerary also, which is one of the largest indoor markets in Latin America.
Guadalajara is the birthplace of mariachi music, integral to Mexican culture. Indulge in local delicacies such as birria, a flavorful stew traditionally made with goat, best savored at Birrieria Las 9 Esquinas. Torta ahogada, a sandwich drenched in spicy tomato sauce, is another must-try, with Tortas Toño being a popular spot.
Oaxaca, Oaxaca
Oaxaca is quickly becoming one of the hottest destinations in Mexico, and for good reason. At the heart of Oaxaca’s charm is its culinary scene, celebrated as one of Mexico’s gastronomic capitals. Street vendors and markets brim with aromatic dishes like tlayudas (crispy tortillas topped with beans, meat, and cheese), mole (complex sauces blending spices, chocolate, and chili), and chapulines (toasted grasshoppers).
Art and craftsmanship flourish in Oaxaca, where centuries-old traditions in pottery, weaving, and mezcal production thrive alongside contemporary galleries and workshops. The city’s cultural calendar includes festivals like the Guelaguetza, a colorful celebration of indigenous dance and music, drawing visitors from around the world.
Querétaro, Querétaro
This often overlooked destination and UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Mexico’s most important: Querétaro is where the Mexican Constitution was signed in 1917. Soak up the history at the Teatro de la República, where it all went down. Plus, the city also played a pivotal role in Mexico’s fight for independence.
Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find the stunning Peña de Bernal, one of the world’s tallest monoliths, and the Sierra Gorda, a biosphere reserve with lush forests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. As you escape the city, you’ll also learn that Querétaro is home to a growing wine region, with vineyards producing some of Mexico’s finest wines.
Valladolid, Yucatán
Forget Cancun and ditch Tulum for nearby Valladolid, a charming colonial town in the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula. Start your day early in the morning to experience Cenote Suytun without crowds of tourists. Right in the middle of the city, Cenote Zací is another popular swimming hole, as are Cenote Dzitnup, Cenote Samulá, and Cenote Xkekén, clustered just outside of the city boundaries.
After your morning swim, make your way to Parque Francisco Cantón Rosado, where you’ll find the stunning San Servacio Church and the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, a 16th-century convent that’s as impressive as it is historic. When you’re ready for a bite, traditional Yucatecan dishes await, like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) and lomitos de Valladolid (pork in tomato sauce).
Mazatlán, Sinaloa
Mazatlán’s coastline is a haven for those looking to soak up the sun. The sparkling Pacific Ocean stretches as far as the eye can see at Playa Olas Altas, a popular spot for surfers. For something more laidback, Playa Cerritos and Playa Brujas await.
During the day, walk Mazatlán’s Malecon, a 13-mile-long boardwalk and one of the longest in the world with stunning ocean views, lively street performers, and plenty of spots to grab a bite, like fresh ceviche or pescado zarandead a local favorite consisting of grilled fish seasoned with a mouthwatering blend of spices. When the sun goes down, hit up one of the beachfront bars or clubs along the Golden Zone (Zona Dorada) and catch a Banda Sinaloense performance—the traditional music of Sinaloa.
Beaches are just part of Mazatlán’s appeal. The city’s Centro Histórico (historic center), boasts colonial architecture and the Angela Peralta Theater, a restored 19th-century opera house that still hosts performances today.
San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas
Hidden in the highlands of Chiapas is San Cristobal de las Casas, a dreamy colonial town best taken at a leisurely pace. The town’s main square, Plaza 31 de Marzo, is your gateway to all things San Cristobal. From there, you can wander into the stunning Catedral de San Cristobal de Guzmán and then take a short walk to the Templo de Santo Domingo, which is adorned with intricate Baroque details.
There’s plenty for adventure travelers in this city. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the nearby Cañón del Sumidero, or take a day trip to the Agua Azul waterfalls, where you can swim in crystal-clear turquoise pools surrounded by lush jungle. At the ruins of Palenque, guided tours showcase where ancient Mayan temples rise out of the dense rainforest.
Guanajuato, Guanajuato
Guanajuato is a living, breathing painting. Buildings in every color of the rainbow and flower-filled plazas fill the city like something out of a storybook. You could make a detailed itinerary of everything to do here, but getting lost is half the fun.
Guanajuato was a major player in Mexico’s War of Independence, and its past is evident across the city. Visit the Alhóndiga de Granaditas, a former granary turned museum, to learn more. After hop on the funicular to El Pípila for a panoramic view of Guanajuato’s beauty.
When the sun sets, Guanajuato transforms. Join a callejoneada, a traditional musical walking tour led by student musicians known as estudiantinas. These lively tours wind through the city’s narrow alleys (callejones), and you’ll be serenaded with folk songs while learning about Guanajuato’s legends and lore. It’s an experience that’s as unforgettable as it is entertaining.
La Paz, Baja California
Though Cabo San Lucas tends to receive the most attention on Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, La Paz is the real star, with crystal clear beaches and breathtaking vistas. Playa Balandra is the crown jewel of La Paz’s beaches, with its shallow, crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
Head out to Isla Espiritu Santo for hidden coves, snorkeling, swimming with sea lions, and rugged hiking trails. La Paz’s marine life isn’t limited to the usual bright fish. From January to April, you can get up close and personal with the gentle giants of the sea—whale sharks. Anglers will appreciate that the Sea of Cortez is teeming with fish, making it one of the best spots in the world for sport fishing.
As a result, seafood lovers will be in heaven as local mariscos stands serve up ceviche, fish tacos, and chocolate clams—an Indigenous delicacy.
La Huasteca Potosina, San Luis Potosí
La Huasteca Potosina, a region of San Luis Potosí, is Mexico’s best-kept secret. Filled with lush jungle and jaw-dropping waterfalls, the magical area puts everything on the table for adventure travelers. Start with Cascada de Tamul, the largest of the falls, plummeting 344 feet into a turquoise pool. If you hike to it, you can swim in its clear headwaters. Also not to be missed are Cascada Minas Viejas, Cascada el Meco, and Puente de Dios, where travelers can hike, kayak, raft, and more.
The most special landmark in the region is the surreal garden of Las Pozas. Created by eccentric English artist Edward James, this ethereal wonderland is tucked away in the jungle near Xilitla. The unbridled jungle becomes one with giant concrete sculptures, winding staircases that lead to nowhere, and whimsical bridges that look like they’ve sprung from a dream. It’s like stepping into a Salvador Dalí painting, with nature reclaiming the art in the most beautiful way possible.
Ensenada, Mexico
Trying to find a beach escape in Mexico that isn’t Cancún? Just south of San Diego, Ensenada is calling your name.
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Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
