What are the top things to do in Mexico as a tourist?

It's impossible to be a travel enthusiast and not have Mexico on your dream destinations list. This country holds so much variety of attractions that it's the perfect spot for both nature and history lovers, not to mention foodies! 

The country's rich culture, a fascinating blend of indigenous peoples and Spanish colonial influences, is reflected in everything from its culinary delights to its vibrant musical and dancing traditions. Let's dive into some of the best things to do in Mexico.

Natural things to do in Mexico

Swim in the Riviera Maya

The resort locations of Cancun, Playa del Carmen, the island of Cozumel and beyond are located along a stunning length of coastline on the Gulf of Mexico. The Riviera Maya is the name given to these groups of islands.

With crystal clear waters and an abundance of marine life, some of the top things to do in Mexico in this area are diving, swimming with dolphins or stingrays, snorkeling and other warter sports. 

Hike in Sierra Norte

Sierra Norte is a fascinating region, and hiking between the "Pueblos Manucommunandos" with a local guide is the best way to explore it. Instead of palm trees, there are pine trees.

The heat of the shore will be replaced by the crispness of the mountains. Have a terrific hiking experience with Expediciones Sierra Norte, which focuses heavily on eco-tourism. The location itself is a nice change of pace from the regular Mexican settings.

Walk through the Monarch Butterfly Reserve

The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve is a large protected area that attracts monarch butterflies every year and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hundreds of millions of monarch butterflies migrate south of the border to Michoacán every winter, turning the trees orange and black. An ideal win for nature lovers and a must-see if your vacation plans cover the end of the year.

Historical attractions in Mexico

Explore Mayan Ruins in Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá, the majestic Mayan metropolis, is one of the most visited attractions in Mexico, as well as one of the largest and best maintained archeological zones in the country.

There are several ruins worth seeing in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The huge El Castillo, also known as the Pyramid of Kukulkán and the site's tallest structure at 30 meters, is a must-see.

Stop by San Juan Chamula

Visitors are allowed to enter this church, which is located in a little community just outside of San Cristobal.

The local religion is a blend of Catholicism and Maya Ritual. Instead of benches, the floor is covered in pine needles, and churchgoers sit on the ground. Don't be surprised by the animal (chicken) sacrifices, chanting healers employing eggs and bones, and the overwhelming smell of incense.

Traditional ceremonies are done as thousands of candles flicker, and the people's chants and prayers echo around. However, photos are not permitted once inside, and what you will see is unlike anything you've ever seen before, making it an unforgettable memory.

Things to do in Mexico: exploring its cities

Visit Mexico City

Mexico City (Ciudad de México) is not only the country's capital and seat of government, but it is also one of the most popular alternative travel destinations in the country.

Some of the best things to do in Mexico City include the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor with its Aztec treasures.

Experience a Colonial Town

Beautiful colonial towns may be found all around Mexico. Guanajuato is one of the best, with cobblestone lanes, pastel-colored buildings, and tranquil tree-lined squares surrounding cathedrals.

Visiting the charming Jardin de la Union, the city's main square with its splendid ancient architecture, where you'll find the gorgeous old San Diego Church and the imposing Juárez Theatre, as well as fountains and flowers beds, cafés, and restaurants, is a very pleasurable experience.

Visit Guadalajara

Guadalajara, the capital of the state of Jalisco, is the second-largest city in Mexico and it has successfully highlighted its distinctive combination of colonial and native Tapatios influences.

The Plaza de Armas, which includes such notable buildings as the 17th-century Government Palace and the majestic Baroque Guadalajara Cathedral, is the ideal spot to start a sightseeing tour. One of the finest things about GDL is the city's fantastic nightlife and night markets, where you can eat, drink, shop, and dance your way through an incredible evening.

Unique things to do in Mexico

Explore the Sonora Market

Unlike the regular markets, the Sonora market is dedicated to magic and witchcraft. It's a place where you may buy therapeutic herbs as well as stuff related to magic and the occult. There are statues dedicated to the Saint of Death, as well as a range of potions and herbs and voodoo dolls.

You can participate in tarot card readings or a mini-ouija board session to get a glance into the crystal ball, making it surely one of Mexico's most unique experiences.

Try the Mexican spirits

Tequila is a form of mezcal, which is an agave-based distilled alcoholic beverage. While mezcal is available throughout the country, the best spot to sample it is in Oaxaca, which is known for manufacturing high-quality spirits. You can visit a mezcal farm and learn about the production process, or you can stop by a small Mezcaleria for a tasting and pick your favorite.

You can also go to a restaurant that specializes in unique mezcal cocktails if you don't want to drink it straight. Mezcal and tequila are both extremely popular in Mexico, and sampling them is one of the best things to do there.