14-day tour of Mexico! Here’s a sample itinerary with some details:
Day 1-3: Mexico City
- Arrive in Mexico City and check into your hotel
- Spend the first day exploring the historic center of Mexico City, including the Zocalo, the National Palace, and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
- On day 2, visit the ancient Aztec city of Teotihuacan, located just outside of Mexico City.
- On day 3, explore some of the other neighborhoods of Mexico City, such as the trendy Roma and Condesa neighborhoods.
Mexico City is a vibrant and culturally rich destination with many things to see and do. Here are some suggestions for activities and attractions to consider during your visit:
- Visit the Historic Center: The Zócalo, the main square in the heart of the historic center, is a great place to start your exploration of the city. Here you can see the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and other important landmarks.
- Explore the Museums: Mexico City has many world-class museums, including the National Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Franz Mayer Museum.
- See the Pyramids of Teotihuacan: Just outside the city, the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan offer a glimpse into Mexico’s pre-Columbian history. The Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon are particularly impressive.
- Taste the Food: Mexico City is a foodie’s paradise, with a range of delicious street food, traditional markets, and high-end restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to try tacos al pastor, chiles en nogada, and other local specialties.
- Take a Stroll in Chapultepec Park: This huge park in the middle of the city offers a respite from the hustle and bustle. You can visit the Chapultepec Castle, the National Museum of Anthropology, and the zoo, among other attractions.
- Experience the Art Scene: Mexico City is home to many galleries and art museums, including the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Tamayo Museum, and the Soumaya Museum.
- Visit Coyoacán: This charming neighborhood is known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the Casa Azul museum, which was the home of artist Frida Kahlo.
- Take a Boat Ride in Xochimilco: In the southern part of the city, the Xochimilco canals offer a unique way to experience Mexico City’s culture and traditions. You can rent a colorful trajinera boat and enjoy food, music, and drinks as you float along the waterways.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Mexico City has so much to offer that you could easily spend weeks exploring and discovering new things.
Day 4-5: Puebla
- Travel to Puebla, a colonial city known for its architecture and culinary scene.
- Spend day 4 exploring the historic center of Puebla, including the Puebla Cathedral and the Church of Santo Domingo.
- On day 5, take a day trip to the nearby Cholula archaeological site, which features a massive pyramid and a network of underground tunnels.
Puebla is a colonial city located in central Mexico and is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Here are some suggestions for things to do during your visit to Puebla:
- Visit the Puebla Cathedral: The Puebla Cathedral is one of the main landmarks of the city and is located in the Zócalo, the central square. This stunning cathedral features a mix of architectural styles, including Baroque, Renaissance, and Neo-classical.
- Explore the Historic Center: Puebla’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of beautiful colonial buildings, churches, and plazas. Take a walking tour to learn about the history of the city and admire its architecture.
- Visit the Great Pyramid of Cholula: The Great Pyramid of Cholula is located just outside of Puebla and is the largest pyramid in the Americas. You can climb to the top of the pyramid and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- See the Museums: Puebla has a number of excellent museums, including the Amparo Museum, which features a collection of pre-Hispanic, colonial, and contemporary art, and the Regional Museum of Puebla, which showcases the history of the city and the state.
- Taste the Food: Puebla is known for its delicious cuisine, including dishes like mole poblano, chiles en nogada, and cemitas. Visit a local market or restaurant to sample some of the city’s culinary delights.
- Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: For a unique perspective on Puebla and its surroundings, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. You can see the city and the nearby volcanoes from the air.
- Visit the Rosary Chapel: The Rosary Chapel is a Baroque masterpiece located within the Church of Santo Domingo. The chapel features ornate decorations, including gold leaf and a stunning ceiling mural.
- Go Shopping: Puebla is known for its Talavera pottery, which is a type of hand-painted ceramic. You can visit local workshops and stores to see and purchase this unique craft.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Puebla. With its rich culture, history, and cuisine, Puebla is a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Mexico.
Day 6-7: Oaxaca
- Travel to Oaxaca, a city known for its indigenous culture, arts, and cuisine.
- Spend day 6 exploring the historic center of Oaxaca, including the Santo Domingo Church and Museum.
- On day 7, take a day trip to the nearby Monte Alban archaeological site, which was the ancient capital of the Zapotec civilization.
Oaxaca is a beautiful city located in the southern part of Mexico and is known for its rich indigenous culture, colonial architecture, and delicious cuisine. Here are some suggestions for things to do during your visit to Oaxaca:
- Visit the Zócalo: The Zócalo is the central square of Oaxaca and is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings and churches. It’s a great place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere of the city.
- Explore the Markets: Oaxaca is known for its vibrant markets, including the Mercado Benito Juárez, where you can find everything from food to handicrafts. The Mercado 20 de Noviembre is a must-visit for foodies, as it’s home to many stalls serving up delicious traditional dishes.
- Visit the Templo de Santo Domingo: The Templo de Santo Domingo is a beautiful church in the heart of Oaxaca that features intricate Baroque-style architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Explore the Mitla Archaeological Site: Mitla is an ancient Zapotec site located just outside of Oaxaca. It features beautifully preserved stone buildings and intricate geometric patterns.
- Visit the Monte Albán Archaeological Site: Monte Albán is another important archaeological site in Oaxaca that dates back to the Zapotec civilization. It features pyramids, temples, and other structures set on a hilltop with stunning views of the valley below.
- Learn About the Indigenous Culture: Oaxaca is home to many indigenous communities, including the Zapotec and Mixtec. You can visit local villages to learn about their traditions, crafts, and cuisine.
- Taste the Food: Oaxaca is known for its delicious cuisine, including mole, tlayudas (a type of tortilla), and mezcal. You can visit local restaurants or take a cooking class to learn how to make these dishes yourself.
- Visit the Hierve el Agua Waterfalls: Hierve el Agua is a natural wonder located just outside of Oaxaca. It features petrified waterfalls and pools of mineral-rich water that you can swim in.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Oaxaca. With its rich culture, history, and cuisine, Oaxaca is a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Mexico.
Day 8-9: Puerto Escondido
- Travel to Puerto Escondido, a beach town known for its surf breaks and relaxed vibe.
- Spend day 8 exploring the town and its beaches, such as Zicatela and Carrizalillo.
- On day 9, take a surf lesson or go on a boat tour to see dolphins and sea turtles.
Puerto Escondido is a popular beach destination on the Pacific coast of Mexico, known for its beautiful beaches, great surf spots, and laid-back atmosphere. Here are some suggestions for things to do during your visit to Puerto Escondido:
- Surfing: Puerto Escondido is known for its world-class surf breaks, including Playa Zicatela, which has some of the largest waves in the world. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are waves for all levels.
- Beach Hopping: Puerto Escondido has a number of beautiful beaches to explore, including Playa Carrizalillo, Playa Bacocho, and Playa Manzanillo. Each beach has its own unique atmosphere and activities to enjoy.
- Visit the Mercado: The Mercado de Puerto Escondido is a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and handicrafts. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and try some traditional food.
- Take a Boat Tour: There are a number of boat tours available in Puerto Escondido that will take you to see dolphins, turtles, and other marine life. Some tours also include snorkeling or fishing.
- Visit the Turtle Sanctuary: The Turtle Sanctuary in Puerto Escondido is a great place to learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect sea turtles. You can even participate in a release of baby turtles into the ocean.
- Try the Seafood: Puerto Escondido is known for its fresh seafood, including ceviche, shrimp, and octopus. There are a number of restaurants and food stalls where you can try these dishes.
- Visit the Laguna de Manialtepec: The Laguna de Manialtepec is a lagoon located just outside of Puerto Escondido that is home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife. You can take a boat tour of the lagoon or go kayaking.
- Visit the El Adoquín Market: The El Adoquín Market is a colorful outdoor market located in the heart of Puerto Escondido. Here, you can find souvenirs, handicrafts, and other locally made goods.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Puerto Escondido. With its beautiful beaches, great surf, and laid-back vibe, Puerto Escondido is a great destination for travelers looking to relax and enjoy the sun and surf.
Day 10-11: San Cristobal de las Casas
- Travel to San Cristobal de las Casas, a highland town known for its indigenous culture and colorful markets.
- Spend day 10 exploring the town, including the Santo Domingo Church and the Na Bolom Museum.
- On day 11, take a day trip to the nearby Sumidero Canyon, which features stunning views and a boat ride.
San Cristobal de las Casas is a charming colonial town located in the highlands of Chiapas, Mexico. It’s known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and indigenous culture. Here are some suggestions for things to do during your visit to San Cristobal de las Casas:
- Visit the Santo Domingo Church: The Santo Domingo Church is a beautiful colonial church located in the heart of San Cristobal. It features intricate Baroque-style architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Explore the Local Markets: San Cristobal is home to several local markets, including the Mercado de Dulces y Artesanias, where you can find handmade crafts and traditional sweets, and the Mercado de Santo Domingo, where you can find fresh produce and traditional foods.
- Visit the Indigenous Villages: San Cristobal is surrounded by many indigenous villages, including San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán, where you can learn about the local customs and traditions of the Maya people.
- Explore the Templo de San Cristóbal: The Templo de San Cristóbal is a beautiful church located on a hill overlooking the town. It offers stunning views of San Cristobal and the surrounding mountains.
- Visit the Museums: San Cristobal is home to several museums, including the Museo de la Ciudad, which features exhibits on the town’s history, and the Na Bolom Cultural Center, which showcases the art and culture of the Lacandon Maya people.
- Take a Cooking Class: San Cristobal is known for its delicious cuisine, which features a mix of indigenous and Spanish flavors. You can take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes like tamales, mole, and chiles rellenos.
- Visit the Cañón del Sumidero: The Cañón del Sumidero is a stunning natural wonder located just outside of San Cristobal. You can take a boat tour of the canyon to see its towering cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife.
- Take a Yoga or Meditation Class: San Cristobal is known for its spiritual community, and there are many yoga and meditation centers where you can take classes and workshops.
These are just a few of the many things to do in San Cristobal de las Casas. With its rich history, culture, and stunning natural surroundings, San Cristobal is a great destination for travelers looking for a unique and authentic Mexican experience.
Day 12-14: Tulum
- Travel to Tulum, a beach town known for its Mayan ruins and bohemian vibe.
- Spend day 12 exploring the Tulum archaeological site and its beach.
- On day 13, take a day trip to the nearby Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, which features a variety of ecosystems and wildlife.
- On day 14, relax on the beach or go snorkeling in one of the nearby cenotes.
Tulum is a coastal town on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. It’s known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and Mayan ruins. Here are some suggestions for things to do during your visit to Tulum:
- Visit the Tulum Ruins: The Tulum Ruins are a must-see attraction in Tulum. They are located on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea and offer stunning views. The ruins date back to the 13th century and are well-preserved.
- Explore the Cenotes: The Yucatan Peninsula is home to many cenotes, which are natural swimming holes formed by underground rivers. Some of the most popular cenotes near Tulum include Gran Cenote, Cenote Dos Ojos, and Cenote Azul.
- Relax on the Beaches: Tulum is known for its beautiful beaches, which are lined with palm trees and offer crystal-clear waters. Some of the most popular beaches include Playa Paraíso, Playa Santa Fe, and Playa Ruinas.
- Visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a protected area located near Tulum. It’s home to a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, and crocodiles, and offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and boating.
- Take a Yoga Class: Tulum is known for its yoga and wellness culture. There are many yoga studios and wellness centers where you can take classes and workshops.
- Visit the Tulum Art Walk: The Tulum Art Walk is a monthly event where local galleries and shops stay open late and offer special exhibits and events. It’s a great way to experience the local art and culture scene.
- Try the Local Cuisine: Tulum is known for its delicious cuisine, which features fresh seafood, Mayan-inspired dishes, and a mix of Mexican and international flavors. Some popular restaurants include Hartwood, Arca, and Posada Margherita.
- Take a Day Trip to Coba: Coba is an ancient Mayan city located about an hour’s drive from Tulum. It features a large pyramid, called Nohoch Mul, which you can climb to get stunning views of the surrounding jungle.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Tulum. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Tulum is a great destination for travelers looking for a unique and authentic Mexican experience.
I hope this itinerary helps you plan your Mexico tour! Keep in mind that Mexico is a large country with many diverse regions, so feel free to customize this itinerary to your interests and preferences. Also, make sure to check travel restrictions and safety recommendations before your trip.