Here are 25 Unique Places to Visit in Mexico (Including Some You’ve Never Heard Of)
Looking for unique places in Mexico?
If you’re looking for Mexico’s best places to visit that you didn’t know existed, they’re all listed here. For your travel planning convenience, they’re pinned to the Mexico map at the end so you can see where they are in the country.
With so many nice places in Mexico, cool places in Mexico and interesting places in Mexico — let’s get to these 25 Mexico must see places! There’s also Mexico travel tips and tips for visiting places in Mexico safely at the end of the article.
How to Visit Unique Places to Visit in Mexico
Renting a Car in Mexico
The easiest, fastest and most convenient way to travel to most Mexican hidden gems is via your own private rental car.
While driving in Mexico is considered quite safe, you’ll be unfamiliar with Mexico driving laws, so make sure to read over the Mexico Driving Tips in this linked article to help you with how to drive in Mexico.
For my own personal rentals, I recommend and use Discover Cars. This is a great company that compares prices at numerous Mexico car rental agencies all over the country to get you the best price.
25 Unique Places to Visit in Mexico
1. Las Posza: Xilitla Surrealist Gardens
📍 Las Pozas is located in Xilitla, Mexico, a pueblo magico (magic town), in San Luis Potosi State.
With no shortage of beautiful places in Mexico, Las Pozas (meaning The Pools or The Wells) is in a category all its own.
This unique Mexico hidden gem was never completed to its full glory, but still makes for an incredible site in the small pueblo magico of Xilitla, Mexico, in San Luis Potosi state.
Before we go on, let’s clear up the What are pueblos magicos? question.
🤔 What is a pueblo magico?
Xilitla, and the next nine unique places to go in Mexico on this list, are all what’s known as a pueblo magico, or Mexico magic town.
This is similar to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but exclusive to Mexico. There are currently about 177 pueblos magicos in Mexico.
They’re designated as such by the Mexican Secretary of Tourism as noteworthy for reasons including unique history, folkloric traditions and natural beauty.
Surrealist Garden of Edward James
Las Pozas was the vision of Edward James, a wealthy, eccentric British poet, and surrealist art collector.
He arrived to Xilitla in the late-1940s, and began construction on the home he envisioned as something straight out of a surrealist painting.
Located on a hillside in the rural Sierra Madre jungle, Edward James spent about 40 years constructing Las Pozas, before his death in 1984.
Though it was never finished, his surrealist garden and its focal point, the nine pools (Las Pozas), is a magical place you have to see to believe.
[Edward James is] crazier than all the surrealists put together. They pretend, but he is the real thing.
—Salvador Dalí, the most famous surrealist artist of all time
Though a bit of a trek t get to, Edward James’ Surrealist Garden is worth it. Walking around, it almost feels like you’re in a dream.
There are with more than 30 fanciful concrete structures and sculptures, some more than 100-feet-tall (30 m). The whole place exists somewhere between fantasy and reality.
To visit Las Pozas, you’ll want to spend at least one night in a Xilitla hotel, as it’s quite remote.
Two of the best hotels in Xilitla are Posada Inkali Xilitla and Hotel Real de Lua. From there, you’ll drive your rental car or hire a taxi for the day to Las Pozas.
Unique Places to Visit in Mexico
2. Tulum
📍 Tulum, Mexico, is a pueblo magico located in Quintana Roo State in the Yucatan Peninsula.
Tulum was once a sleepy backpacker’s destination with cheap hostels on the beach and food stands with street tacos.
Now, the best Tulum hotels, like Ahau Tulum Resort, Azulik Tulum and CoCo Tulum Resort, aren’t so cheap anymore.
While it’s still possible to visit Tulum on a budget, the Tulum of today is a chic place for a luxurious-yet-rustic destination on a Yucatan Peninsula trip.
🏝 Want to visit? Check out this Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide for First Timers.
There are lots of cool things to do in Tulum, including exploring the famous Tulum Ruins archeological site, swimming in Tulum cenotes and renting a bike for the day to explore Tulum Town (AKA Downtown Tulum).
There’s also Tulum Beach, among the best beaches in Mexico, to swim in the Caribbean Sea.
SIAN KA’AN NEAR TULUM
Head a bit further south of Tulum, and you’ll be in the pristine Sian Ka’an Biosphere Preserve, a natural gem for nature lovers.
This protected 2,000-square-mile nature preserve has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve-World Heritage Site since 1987.
The Sian Ka’an preserve’s remote location and vast size make it nearly impossible to navigate on your own, but there are a number of sustainable tour companies that offer a memorable adventure.
One of the best Sian Ka’an tours is a Muyil River float experience, where you actually float with a group tour through the channels in the lagoon.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
BONUS: Best Tulum Cenotes
What are cenotes?
You’re probably wondering, Just what is a cenote? First off, the word is pronounced cen-no-tay, and two or more centoes are cen-no-tays.
In short, cenotes are underwater sinkholes containing clear, freshwater. They are only found in a few places on Earth, with the largest concentration of about 6,000 cenotes in Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula.
Throughout the years of Earth’s existence, the native limestone rock once encasing the cenote water has collapsed or eroded.
Depending on how much rock is gone, some cenotes are fully open like a swimming pool. Others are partially open, and some are in underground caves, like Cenote Suytun.
Swimming in the cenotes is high atop many Mexico travel bucket lists.
Some of the most beautiful Mexico cenotes include Calavera Cenote in Tulum, Azul Cenote near Playa del Carmen and Ik Kil Cenote near Valladolid, Mexico.
If this will be your first time visiting cenotes, check out this Cenote FAQ.
You’ll find out what to bring, how much cenotes cost to enter, and how to visit cenotes with respect to responsible tourism in Mexico.
Best Tulum Cenotes
There are cenotes throughout Yucatan, but some of the best cenotes in Mexico are not far from Tulum. 💧 The best way to see them all? On one of these Tulum cenote tours.
You can also go on your own if you’re renting a car. Among the best Tulum cenotes, don’t miss Cenote Calavera, Gran Cenote and Cenote Zacil-Ha.
Closer to Playa del Carmen, but still not far from Tulum, Cenote Azul is also one of the best Yucatan cenotes.
Best Valladolid Cenotes near Tulum
Not far from Tulum, the pueblo magico Valladolid, one of Mexico’s magic towns, is another area with Instagram worthy cenotes.
Some of the best cenotes near Valladolid include Cenote Zaci, Cenote Suytun, Cenote Oxman, and Cenote Ik Kil, one of the most beautiful cenotes in Yucatan.
Unique Places to Visit in Mexico
3. Taxco
📍 Taxco, Mexico, is a pueblo magico located in Guerrero State.
Although Taxco pueblo magico is not on the main tourist trail, it is well worth visiting — especially if you’re traveling to Mexico City.
A famous silver town in the mountains, many silversmiths still ply their trade today. In fact, you can see them creating silver jewelry and art pieces in their workshops, and buy directly from them.
Just wandering the steep, narrow cobblestone streets is enjoyable, but there are also dozens of ornate churches you can visit, including the ornate Baroque Church of Santa Prisca.
Located not far away, Taxco is one of the best places to visit near Mexico City. You can drive your rental car, take a bus or join this group tour from Mexico City to Taxco.
At about three hours south, Taxco is one of the most popular Mexico City day trips.
Semana Santa in Taxco (Easter Week or Holy Week)
The famous churches in Taxco Mexico play an instrumental role in the Semana Santa processions for Holy Week in Taxco.
Every day of the week leading up to Easter, there are processions where figures representing the main people in the Bible’s Easter events are paraded through the streets to reenact the events.
In the afternoons and evenings, different processions feature hooded penitents, carrying heavy crosses or bundles of sharp thorny sticks on outstretched arms, or lashing their backs with sharp thorns.
This Semana Santa celebration is a gruesome, but fascinating, connection to historical displays of penitence — and one of the most important Mexican holidays.
UNIQUE Places to Visit in Mexico
4. Teotihuacan Pyramids
📍 Teotihuacan is a historic site in the pueblo magico of San Juan Teotihuacan, in Estado de Mexico (Mexico State), just outside of Mexico City.
Teotihuacan is a spectacular archaeological complex, and a must-visit on any Mexico City itinerary.
Since it’s easily accessible, Teotihuacan is one of the best day trips from Mexico City at any time of year.
Teotihuacan is one of the best preserved pre-Columbian cities in the world, originally constructed prior to the Aztec arrival in Mexico, and many of its structures are still standing today.
The most amazing way to see this ancient archeological site is from above. When visiting Mexico City, don’t miss the opportunity to take one of these best Teotihuacan hot air Balloon tours.
It is one of the top places to visit Mexico, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shrouded in mystery and mysticism, Teotihuacan is also one of the best places to celebrate Day of the Dead in Mexico.
You’ll be absolutely awestruck by the Teotihuacan pyramids, including the Pyramid of the Moon and Pyramid of the Sun. This is the biggest pyramid at Teotihuacan.
Unlike the Chichen Itza Mexico pyramids in the Yucatan Peninsula, you can climb the pyramids at Teotihuacan. They rival their Egyptian counterparts.
Spend some time exploring the Avenue of the Dead and artifacts in the Museum of Teotihuacan Culture.
Don’t miss the various temples and ruins, such as the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, a temple dedicated to the most important Aztec god, Quetzalcoatl (pronounced ketz-al-coe-uh), the Feathered Serpent.
The site is located in the pueblo magico (magic town) of San Juan Teotihuacan. This small town is located 1-2 hours from Mexico City, depending on traffic.
You can visit on a Teotihuacan tour, by Uber or bus; for a detailed guide, head to this article to find out how to get from Mexico City to Teotihuican.
Submitted by Tegan & Alex of Why Not Walk Travel Guides
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
5. Izamal: The Yellow City
📍 Izamal, Mexico, is a pueblo magico located in Yucatan State, in the Yucatan Peninsula.
A Yucatan hidden gem, the “Yellow City” of Izamal, Mexico is one of the 175 or so Mexico pueblos magicos (magic towns).
What makes Izamal worth a visit is its bright yellow color, with all buildings in Downtown Izamal painted yellow — so don’t forget to grab your camera for travel photos when you visit.
Izamal also has an interesting history since it was built by Spaniards on top of the Mayan settlement.
No one knows for sure why the entire town was painted yellow.
However, there are several theories about it, including that the Mayans painted it yellow in honor of their sun god — Kinich Kakmo.
The most prominent landmark of Izamal is Convento de San Antonio de Padua.
It was was built on top of the ancient Mayan pyramid, Pop-Hol-Chac, in 1561, to introduce Mayans to the Catholic religion.
The town still has several Mayan pyramids, including Kinich Kakmo Pyramid, located just outside downtown.
Wandering the streets of Izamal is a lot of fun, however there’s very little shade so don’t forget your eco-friendly sunscreen and this Water-To-Go Reusable Bottle.
As with the entire Yucatan Peninsula, the best time to visit Izamal is in the fall or winter, when the weather is cool and the humidity’s at bay.
As one of the best Merida day trips, you can easily travel to Izamal, Mexico by driving your rental car or taking a bus from Merida.
It is also a popular day trip from Valladolid, another one of the best pueblos magicos in Yucatan, about 1.5 hours away.
Contributed by Daria of The Discovery Nut — Check out her Mexico travel podcast episode, where she offers Mexico tips, and talks about her solo travel adventures in Izamal and the Yucatan.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
6. San Sebastian del Oeste
📍 San Sebastian del Oeste, Mexico, is a pueblo magico located in Jalisco State.
As you make your way up the route to San Sebastian del Oeste, the hot, dry weather of Puerto Vallarta is replaced with cool jungle weather.
The hustle and bustle of town is offset by a charming, historic village, which makes everything much calmer.
A truly bucket list destination in Mexico, San Sebastian is only 67 miles away from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (though best done with a truck or SUV).
If you aren’t renting a car in Puerto Vallarta, you can always take a group tour to San Sebastian. This makes for one of the best day trips from Puerto Vallarta.
The pueblo magico of San Sebastian del Oeste is one of those places to see in Mexico that feels like you’re stepping back in time.
It was founded in 1605, and the haciendas and centuries-old homes bring you back to an earlier time in history, when this was a booming silver mining town.
Among the best things to do in San Sebastian del Oeste, visit the beautiful colonial haciendas like La Galera, La Hacienda San and La Hacienda Jalisco.
There’s also the Iglesia de San Sebastian, a small church dedicated to San Sebastian Martir, and built by Franciscan friars at the end of the 18th Century.
If you are up for an additional drive, and you have a 4X4, head up the Cerro de la Bufa (La Bufa Hill).
This hillside trail is located 45 minutes away, and offers views all the way to Puerto Vallarta and the Pacific Ocean.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
7. Cholula
📍 Cholula, Mexico is a pueblo magico located in Puebla State.
When looking for unique places to visit in Mexico, Cholula is one of those off the beaten path Mexico destinations you can’t afford to miss.
One fun fact about Cholula is that the largest pyramid on Earth (by volume), the Great Pyramid of Cholula, is located in this colorful pueblo magico.
The pyramid is in the Cholula Archaeological Zone, along with the or iconic yellow Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios church, one of the most beautiful churches in Mexico.
Located atop a cliff, when you visit the church you’ll also get some beautiful views of this colorful and well-preserved colonial town below.
Located less than three hours away, Cholula makes a great addition to your Mexico City itinerary.
One of the best Mexico City day trips, take a guided tour to Cholula and return back to the city on the same day.
However you choose to visit, on your own or Cholula tours, this is one of those Mexico beautiful places far too few people see.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
8. Tequila
📍 Tequila, Mexico, is a pueblo magico located in Jalisco state, which is in Central Mexico.
Tequila, is one of the most unique places to visit in Mexico.
The entire surrounding area in the agave landscapes and fields of Tequila, Mexico, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A well known word thanks to the drink, many visitors are often amazed to find out there really is a town called Tequila — and that the drink is named after this town, not the other way around.
For centuries, tequila has been made here.
In fact, the drink tequila can only be called tequila if it’s produced in this town, in the state of Jalisco, and in very few other certified places in Mexico.
All other distilled beverages made from the agave plant, which tequila is, must be labeled a distilled agave beverage.
🥃 Tequila Fun Fact: Much like how champagne is just sparkling wine that’s made in the city of Champagne, France, tequila is a mezcal that’s made in the city of Tequila, Mexico.
To learn firsthand how tequila is made, visit one of the many distilleries in town, which usually offer some form of a tour and a tasting.
You can choose from smaller, craft tequila producers like Fortaleza, or the more recognizable brands like Sauza, and the producer of the oldest tequila in the world, Jose Cuervo.
On some of these Tequila tours, you’ll even visit one of the many blue agave fields that surround the city of Tequila.
The iconic landscapes with these beautiful agave fields have even been designated one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mexico.
Just 35 miles from Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco state, Tequila makes a great day trip by bus or rental car.
For a unique experience, book this Jose Cuervo Tequila Express Train. It’s an all-day Guadalajara to Tequila train tour that includes mariachi music, snacks and of course, plenty of tequila.
Contributed by Lori of Southerner Says
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
9. Valladolid
📍 Valladolid, Mexico, is a pueblo magico located in Yucatan state, in the Yucatan Peninsula.
One of the prettiest places in Mexico, Valladolid is a charming colonial town and one of the best places to visit in the Yucatan Peninsula.
The best time to visit Valladolid is between October and May, as these months have sunshine, pleasant temperatures, and almost no rain.
Located about two hours by rental car or bus from both Merida and Cancun, and just one hour from Tulum, the town’s proximity to these top destinations has made it increasingly popular in recent years.
However, Valladolid remains a unique, authentic and budget-friendly Mexico destination.
Valladolid things to do
There are many Valladolid things to do, both in downtown and also right around the town.
The most popular things to see outside downtown including visiting the cenotes near Valladolid.
The must see Valladolid site is its beautiful Iglesia de San Servacio Church in the Zocalo (Main Square).
Next, take the tour at Casa de los Venados Museum, which is actually housed in a private home.
From there, head to the colorful Calzada de los Frailes street, and then the Mercado Municipal (Valladolid market) to buy some fresh fruits and veggies.
Additionally, there’s many stunning Valladolid cenotes like Cenote Zaci.
This is a beautiful open air cenote next to downtown Valladolid, perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day.
Other cenotes worth visiting are Cenote Xkeken, Cenote Samula, Cenote Oxman and Cenote Suytun.
These are all located underground in caves filled with magical rock formations.
Also less than an hour from Valladolid, head to Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins. This is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and one of the top places to visit in Mexico.
The ruins are located right next to another one of the best cenotes in Yucatan, Cenote Ik Kil.
Submitted by Carolin of Happy When Abroad
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
10. San Cristobal de las Casas
📍 San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico, is a pueblo magico located in Chiapas state.
San Cristobal de las Casas is the cultural capital of the southern state of Chiapas, and the perfect base to explore the many things to do in Chiapas State.
As the one of the most well known Mexico travel destinations in Chiapas, San Cristobal is worth a visit in itself.
This beautiful colonial city and pueblo magico is truly charming with its cobblestone streets, and a mix of traditional shops and hipster cafes and boutiques.
Much of its population is indigenous and retains traditions and customs from a far past, so visiting this city is like stepping back in time.
The top San Cristobal, Mexico places to see and best day trips include the village of San Juan Chamula, Sumidero Canyon, and Palenque Mayan Ruins.
These are just some of the many things to do in Chiapas.
The best time to visit San Cristobal de las Casas is in the spring, from April to June. Located high in the mountains, it gets cold in the winter, and humid in the summer.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
BONUS: Sumidero Canyon
📍 Sumidero Canyon is in Tuxtla Gutierrez, Mexico, about 45 minutes from San Cristobal de las Casas.
At only about one hour from San Cristobal de las Casas, and located in Sumidero National Park, this Sumidero boat tour is one of the most popular day trips from San Cristobal.
Most Sumidero tours will also take you to see Chiapa de Corzo, a nearby pueblo magico, and charming colonial town.
Created by a geological fault, and carved by the Río Grijalva (Grijalva River), the canyon stretches about eight miles (13 km) and rises to 3,300 feet (1,000 m) at its highest point.
In 2004, the Cañyon Sumidero was designated a Ramsar World Heritage Site as a Wetland of International Importance.
The landscape encompasses about 85 square miles, and is home to towering mountains, beautiful waterfalls, and endangered species like ocelots, crocodiles and spider monkeys.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
11. Islas Marietas: Hidden Beach
📍 The Marietas Islands are located in the Bay of Banderas, about two hours by boat from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
Those traveling to Sayulita, San Pancho, or Puerto Vallarta, have the opportunity to cross the Islas Marietas (Marietas Islands) off their Mexico bucket list.
On one of the islands, you’ll find the famous hidden beach in Mexico, the Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach) that you have to swim under a rocky wall to access.
As this Mexico hidden gem has become famous via YouTube, Instagram and social media, the Mexican government has had to limit the number of visitors to preserve this natural treasure.
Now, only about 125 visitors per day are allowed on the island — so tours sell out fast and well in advance.
While a quick Google search might turn up a lot of results for Islas Marietas tours, know there are two very different Islas Marietas tours offered.
With the first one, the less expensive of the two, you’ll boat near the island with the Mexico hidden beach. On this your, you can swim and snorkel in the waters surrounding it.
On the other tour, which costs about double, you’ll be one of the lucky 125 who gets to go onto the Playa del Amor beach that day.
If visiting one of the most secluded beaches in Mexico is a must see for you, book early for one of the 125 coveted spots to one of the cool places to visit in Mexico.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
12. Las Grutas Tolantongo: Caves & Hot Springs
📍 Tolantongo Grutas is located in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico.
Though located about four hours away, Las Grutas de Tolantongo is considered one of the best places to visit near Mexico City.
Really though, these natural hot springs are one of the most beautiful and Instagram worthy Mexico travel destinations in the whole country.
If you’re wondering, What is Tolantongo? — the short answer is that it’s one of the most unique places to visit in Mexico.
The longer answer is that Tolantongo is a natural water park It is located high up in the mountains, in a canyon that’s surrounded by hot springs and underwater thermal pools, which heat the waters all year-long.
In fact, the word tolantongo comes from the Aztec word tonaltonko, meaning “where it feels warm.”
The word gruta means cave (or grotto), and there just so happens to be one at Tolantongo.
In fact, this large site consists of four distinct natural areas: the river, the pools, the tunnel, and of course, the cave.
There’s also an onsite zipline, suspension bridge, regular swimming pools, hotels, campsites, about 10 restaurants, convenience stores, lockers, medical facilities, and more — Yes, this is a big place.
When visiting, plan to spend the entire day as there are many things to do at Tolantongo.
While it’s possible to visit Tolantongo on a day trip from Mexico City or Queretero, it will definitely be a long day.
As Tolantongo, Mexico, is quite remote, there are overnight options to stay in a Tolantongo resort hotel room, or even go camping at Tolantongo.
The easiest way to go is on these Mexico City to Grutas Tolantongo tours. However you choose go, a visit to Tolantongo is worth it.
As far as beautiful places, Mexico has a ton.
However, the fact that Tolantongo has warm waters year-round make this place very appealing no matter the time of year you visit Mexico.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
13. Las Coloradas: Pink Lakes
📍 Las Coloradas is located in the state of Yucatan, Mexico, close to the town of Rio Lagartos.
Located on the northern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, you’ll find a remote place straight out of your Instagrammable Mexico dreams — the pink lakes of Las Coloradas — and yes, the water is real!
Las Coloradas is the more famous of the two pink lakes in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
The other is Xtampu Laguna Rosada (Pink Lagoon) near Telchac Puerto, a Yucatan beach town on the Gulf of Mexico and not far from the colonial city of Merida.
Las Coloradas, the more famous of the two, is a popular Merida day trip, at about 3.5 hours away. Merida is the closest proper city to Las Coloradas.
You can access the pink lakes of Las Coloradas from other Yucatan cities, but there’s not much else around it, so public transportation can take some time.
As it’s quite remote, and just one large pink lake, the trip to Las Coloradas is usually combined with a boat tour to see flamingos and other wildlife in the nearby Ria Lagartos UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Ria Lagartos is a river and wetland area in Rio Lagartos, Mexico, the closest town to Las Coloradas.
The easiest way to get to Las Coloradas is via tour or rental car. If not, it’s a long trip and you’ll want to spend at least one night in the Hotel Rio Lagartos.
The first step is to take a bus to the city of Tizimin, then catch a connecting bus to the town of Rio Lagartos, and finally, a short taxi ride the rest of the way.
💖 LAS COLORADAS FAQ
1. Why is the water pink at Las Coloradas? Las Coloradas has pink water because of the red algae, plankton and brine shrimp that live in this salty water.
The salt content in this water is so high, this area has been used as a natural salt mine for centuries.
2. What is the best time to visit the Las Coloradas? The pink color of the lakes shows brightest on sunny days at midday, so any sunny day works to visit Las Coloradas.
Do note that on overcast and non-sunny days, the water will not show up as a vibrant pink. On these days, it actually looks more brown than pink.
3. Is Las Coloradas worth visiting? If you’ve checked, and the weather seems like it’s going to cooperate — then yes, the pink lakes are incredible and worth the trek.
4. Can I swim in Las Coloradas? A few years back, the Mexican government stopped allowing swimming. The reason for this is because the high salt content can actually be toxic on the skin.
While there’s always someone anyone around to enforce people not getting in, there’s also no hospitals around, so don’t risk your health for a photo.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
14. Huasteca Potosina
📍 La Huasteca is a region that spans seven states in Mexico. The area’s most visited places are in La Huasteca Potosina, which is in the state of San Luis Potosi, Mexico.
The Huasteca Potosina is one of those natural and authentic off the beaten path places that all nature lovers must visit.
The easiest and best way to visit the Huasteca Potosina is on this three-day Huasteca Potosina tour.
Located in the state of San Luis Potosi, northeast of Mexico City, the Huasteca Potosina is part of the large Huastecas region. It is named after the pre-hispanic civilization settled there, the Huastecan.
It’s a spectacular area, with a great diversity of landscapes.
Here, you’ll find everything from flatlands and hills made of calcified sand, to waterfalls, canyons, natural pools, and caves.
Visiting all the waterfalls, or cascadas, are among the best things to do in Huasteca Potosina.
Tamul, Micos, Tamasopo, El Salto and Puente de Dios are some of the best waterfalls in Huasteca Potosina.
However, don’t miss out on seeing places like the Sotano de las Golondrinas (Cave of Swallows) and Xilitla Surrealist Garden of Edward James either.
Located in different places throughout the region, if you want to see all the Huasteca waterfalls, plan to spend at least five full days in the area.
The most central place to stay is a hotel in Ciudad Valles, Mexico, located in San Luis Potosi state. When I visited, I stayed here.
From there, you’ll either get around by rental car, or hiring a taxi for the day.
A private car is great for creating your own custom Huasteca Potosina itinerary, and for the freedom to move around each day.
Taxis are a safe, inexpensive option, and as the driver will know the area very well, you can choose a different waterfall each day.
Do note that this is usually more expensive than a rental car though.
No matter the option you choose, you’re going to fall in love with the Huasteca Potosina, one of the most beautiful places in Mexico.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
15. Hierve el Agua
📍 Hierve el Agua is located in Oaxaca, Mexico, a state in Central Mexico.
Located more than 5,000 feet above sea level (1,525 m) in the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca mountains, you’ll find Hierve el Agua, an infinity pool surrounded by verdant valleys.
Below the pools is a petrified waterfall — one of only two in the world! It formed over thousands of years from by mineral-rich water flowing down the cliff face.
Hierve el agua means boiling water, and its pools are warmed by the sun, so you’ll want to visit on a sunny day.
As one of the most popular places in Mexico, and best things to do in Oaxaca City, try to arrive early to beat the crowds.
Before jumping in the pools, take your time to explore the entire site. You can hike down for better views of the petrified waterfall before cooling off in the water.
The hike is moderately challenging to get down, but it’s an uphill climb back up, so don’t forget your Water-To-Go Reusable Bottle.
It is easy to visit Hierve el Agua on your own, via public transport, in your rental car or with a group tour.
For those visiting during Oaxaca Day of the Dead in late-October and early-November, remember to schedule in a day before or after the get to visit Hierve el Agua.
To go on public transportation, take a bus or colectivo (shared van) about one hour east of Oaxaca City to the pueblo magico of Mitla, which is also worth exploring.
Then, look for the white pickup trucks that depart every 45 minutes or so, and make your way through the curvy mountain roads to Hierve el Agua.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
16. Calakmul Mayan Ruins
📍 Calakmul is located in Campeche, Mexico, in the Yucatan Peninsula.
The ancient Mayan ruins of Calakmul (pronounced cah-lack-mool) is one of the more off the beaten track Mexico destinations, but definitely worth a visit.
Located in Campeche State, one of the three states that make up the Yucatan Peninsula, it has some of the most beautiful and best pyramids in Mexico.
It is also one of the best things to do in Yucatan Mexico — but many don’t even know it exists. Calakmul’s remote jungle location is the reason many travelers don’t know about this hidden gem.
While big crowds flock to the more famous Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins, Calakmul is much more difficult to reach and won’t get the same attention.
However, Calakmul Pyramids are one of the great places to visit in Mexico, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From the closest major city, Campeche City, it’s about a five hour drive in your rental car.
This includes the two hour drive from the nearest main road into the jungles of the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. However, the trek is worth it.
Calakmul was one of the biggest Mayan cities in ancient times, leaving us with the most beautiful buildings.
Though it’s off the beaten path, Calakmul Pyramids are some of the best Mayan Ruins in Mexico — possibly made even better because they aren’t overrun with crowds.
The Mayan ruins of Calakmul has some of the largest pyramids in Mexico, and you can even climb them.
The views are amazing and you’ll never forget standing on top of the pyramid, higher than the highest trees with nothing but jungle in front of you.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
17. MUSA: Cancun Underwater Museum
📍 MUSA Underwater Museum is located in Cancun, Mexico.
The Cancun Underwater Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Mexico, and a must see Cancun site for those interested in water activities and marine life.
Museo Subacuatico de Arte, or MUSA, is located underwater near Cancun and Isla Mujeres, in the Mexican Caribbean. The best way to visit is on these Cancun Underwater Museum tours.
As one of the best places to visit in Cancun, Mexico, this is also one of the largest underwater sculpture gardens in the world. While diving or snorkeling at MUSA, you’ll see more than 500 pieces of art created by a variety of artists.
Though also beautiful, the main purpose of the art at this underwater museum in Cancun is conservation.
The nearby reefs were being damaged by over tourism, and the art installations serve as both an attraction for the divers and snorkelers to visit, but also as a new habitat for marine plants and animals.
All of the artwork was created with a pH neutral (non-acidic) and environmentally-safe concrete, and then anchored to the ocean floor.
Many of the installments have been in place for more than a decade — and the variety of ocean life that now congregate a MUSA Underwater Museum in Cancun is astounding.
One day, nature will completely overtake the sculptures and the artwork will be so covered with coral that you’ll barely see the original pieces. Instead, they’ll become new art, created by nature.
There are many tours that are available to take you to this amazing underwater museum. You can dive, snorkel, or even take a glass bottom boat to be able to see and enjoy this fascinating place.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
18. Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve
📍 Sierra Gorda, Mexico, is located in Queretaro State.
Venture off the main tourist path to Queretaro, Mexico, located just three hours west of Mexico City by rental car or bus. This is a smaller state, but you’ll want to spend a couple of days in the Sierra Gorda of Queretaro.
Sierra Gorda is a surreal region with a unique diversity of ecosystems — from semi-deserts and oak forests, to gigantic cliffs overlooking barren lands, and old Spanish missions.
The five Franciscan Missions of the Sierra Gorda, located throughout the area, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
🌎 Wondering, What is a Biosphere Reserve?
Biosphere reserves are learning places for sustainable development.
According to UNESCO, they’re sites for testing interdisciplinary approaches to understanding and managing changes and interactions between social and ecological systems, including conflict prevention and biodiversity management.
best Things to do in Sierra Gorda
If you want the full experience to see the most important sites in Sierra Gorda, consider spending at least 2-3 full days.
There are so many interesting sites to explore. These include the secluded waterfalls of El Chuveje and Puente de Dios, the breathtaking lookout of Cuatro Palos, and the five Franciscan Missions.
There are several different ways to explore the Sierra Gorda Mexico.
You can join an organized tour, or explore on your own by staying in Pinal de Amoles, Mexico, where you’ll find rustic accommodations and local guides.
Slightly further away, there are nicer hotels in Jalpan de Serra.
Visiting Sierra Gorda is a very unique experience, as the territory is still virgin and locals are striving to promote ecological practices to protect it.
Booking tours with local guides, and staying in the rustic eco-lodges in the mountains, supports the local economy and conservation efforts.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
19. Holbox Island
📍 Holbox, Mexico, is a Mexican island in the Caribbean Sea, located in Quintana Roo State.
For years, Isla Holbox was one of the best kept secrets in the Yucatan.
However, this little piece of paradise has recently seen an increase in tourism because of its proximity to Cancun and Playa del Carmen. There’s also beautiful, unspoiled beaches, and small town feel.
Holbox is known as one of the safest places to visit in Mexico, and is slowly but surely becoming its own Mexico destination.
Visitors are flocking to this island in the Caribbean Sea for everything from swimming in the crystal clear waters here, to swimming with the whale sharks in Holbox Island.
Swimming with Whale sharks in holbox
If you visit during June-September, book a boat tour (with an ethical tour company, of course) and head out to the deeper waters around Holbox to swim with the largest fish in the ocean, whale sharks.
In case you were wondering, whale sharks aren’t sharks, and don’t even have sharp teeth.
bioluminescence in holbox
If giant fish aren’t your thing, there’s also kayak tours through the mangroves to see the Holbox flamingos in the Yum Balam Nature Reserve during the day.
At night, head to Punta Mosquito (don’t let the name scare you off) to see the Holbox bioluminescence at night.
How to get to Holbox Island has become easier over the last few years, but it is only accessible via the Isla Holbox ferry dock in Chiquila, Mexico.
Cars aren’t permitted on the island, but there are paid lots right next to the dock where you can leave your rental car for about $5 USD per day.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
20. San Miguel de Allende
📍 San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, is a located in Guanajuato State.
San Miguel de Allende is located in Mexico’s Central Highlands, about four hours northwest of Mexico City. It is one of the best places to visit in Mexico.
With its moderate year-round climate, beautiful architecture, and authentic Mexican cultural feel, many Americans and Europeans have relocated to San Miguel in the past few decades.
The town also attracts artists and foodies, and in fact, Bravo’s Top Chef TV show filmed in San Miguel de Allende during Season 12.
It is one of the safest places in Mexico, perfect for those doing solo travel in Meixco, couples, families and groups.
Centro Historico in San Miguel de Allende, the historic downtown, is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mexico.
Here, you’ll find the town’s beautiful 17th-18th century Mexican Baroque buildings — including the iconic pink San Miguel de Allende church, the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel.
One of the best things to do in San Miguel de Allende is just walk around the town’s narrow cobblestone streets. Here, you can admire and take travel photos of the historic and colorful buildings.
Start at El Jardin, the impeccably manicured garden in front of the Parroquia, and then head to Casa Ignacio Allende, a mansion-turned-museum.
Enjoy churros at the famous Chocolates y Churros San Agustin cafe, before heading to Plaza Civica, to see the Church of Our Lady of Health.
Historic San Miguel de Allende is named after two individuals, Juan de San Miguel, a 16th century friar among the first people to settle the area, and Ignacio Allende, a Mexican independence fighter, born in this city.
Its rich history and immense beauty make it one of the must see places in Mexico.
Submitted by Džangir of Dr. Jam Travels
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
21. Valle de Guadalupe: Wine Country
📍 Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico, is located in Baja California Norte state.
At least for now, Valle de Guadalupe is still a relatively unknown Mexico wine region in northern Baja California state.
A very popular trip for Southern Californians, “Valle,” as it’s commonly called, is a delightful and safe getaway for groups and solo female travel in Mexico.
The drive to Mexico takes only two hours from San Diego, via the Tijuana or Tecate U.S.-Mexico border crossings.
All the best vineyards of Valle de Guadalupe dot the landscape along Mexico Route 3, and this drive is beautiful.
🏕 Want to try glamping in Mexico? Valle de Guadalupe has some amazing “glamorous camping” options, like Cuarto Cuartos, so you don’t have to drive after wine tasting.
With more than 120 vineyards in Valle de Bravo, and top notch dining options and accommodations, Valle’s Wine Trail makes for a relaxed Mexico trip.
For wine novices, Bodegas de Santo Tomás Vineyard is a good place to learn the basics of winemaking.
Here, you’ll experience a high-tech multimedia production and an easily digestible overview of viticulture. Besides that, their wine tasting room offers outstanding views of Mexico’s Guadalupe Valley.
For one of the most unusual winery experiences in Valle, head to Vinícola AlXimia for a downright other-worldly experience.
This family-owned and operated winery offers a unique philosophy based on science with a shout out to the medieval practice of alchemy.
While Valle de Guadalupe is a year-round destination, if possible, time your visit to coincide with grape harvest season. This takes place in late-August to early-October.
If you’re really lucky, you may have the opportunity to see grapes being sorted and processed, which is quite a treat for oenophiles.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
22. Merida
📍 Merida, Mexico, is the capital of Yucatan state in the Yucatan Peninsula.
The colorful, colonial city of Merida is known as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Mexico.
Located in Yucatan state, it’s also near several beautiful Mayan Ruins in Yucatan, like Dzibilchaltun, Mayapan, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Uxmal.
In fact, there are many amazing Merida day trips within just two hours of downtown.
As one of the safest cities in Mexico, it’s easy (and safe) to rent a car in Merida and travel around.
Having rich Mayan and colonial heritage, there are many things to do in Merida as well — including Merida beaches, Merida cenotes, Mayan ruins near Merida, and much more.
You’ll find beautiful Merida colonial architecture in Centro Historico, (Downtown, or Historic Center).
There, don’t miss Museo Casa Montejo. This 16th Century mansion-turned-museum is one of the best museums in Mexico.
There’s also the Catedral de San Ildefonso (AKA Merida Cathedral), which is one of the oldest cathedrals on the Americas Continent.
For foodies, Merida is a great place to try traditional Yucatan cuisine — which differs from the Mexican food most visitors are used to.
Some Yucatecan food favorites include cochinita pibil (suckling pig slow cooked underground), sopa de lima (lime soup), and marquesitas (crepes).
Merida is one of the most safe places to visit in Mexico. In fact, it was named the second safest city in North America and the safest in Latin America by CEOWorld Magazine.
Still one of the up and coming tourist spots in Mexico, you can visit and enjoy all the things to do in Merida for little money. However, this won’t be the case for much longer.
With Merida’s proximity to other top Yucatan destinations, like Tulum, Cancun, Valladolid, Bacalar Lagoon, Campeche, and Playa del Carmen — more people are traveling to Merida each year.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
23. Uxmal Ruins
📍 Uxmal Ruins is located in Uxmal, Mexico, in the Yucatan Peninsula.
Uxmal (pronounced yoush-mall) is known as one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico, with some of the best Mayan pyramids in the world.
Located in the Puuc region of the Yucatan Peninsula, Uxmal has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Its impressive buildings are a tribute to the incredible architectural accomplishments of the Mayan people.
The stonework at Uxmal is gorgeous with symbolic carved-stone motifs, common of all five sites on the Puuc Route, of which Uxmal is just one site.
The Pyramid of the Magician dominates the entrance to Uxmal — and according to Mayan folklore, it was built by a magician in one night, hence the name.
The ancient Mayan rain god, Chaac, is depicted in many structures. This is a testimony to the importance of water to this agrarian society.
For those debating visiting Chichen Itza vs Uxmal Ruins, one main draw to Uxmal is you can climb the pyramids there and you can’t climb the pyramids at Chichen Itza.
Take advantage of this by climbing up the Governor’s Palace for a panoramic view of the ancient Uxmal ruins.
Uxmal is located about 1.5 hours south of Merida, the capital of the Yucatan state, by rental car and bus.
It is one of the best day trips from Merida, and having a car means you can visit all five sites on the Ruta Puuc in the Yucatan Peninsula — Labna, Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak and Uxmal.
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
24. Xochimilco: Mexico City Canals
📍 Xochimilco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Mexico City (CDMX).
Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mil-ko) is one of the best places to visit in Mexico City — and one of the top things to do in Mexico City.
Located in the southern part of the city near the beautiful Coyoacan neighborhood, Xochimilco is famous for an intricate network of canals, colorful gondola boats and floating food vendors and mariachi bands.
🧳 Wondering what to pack for Mexico City? Head to this article and download your FREE Printable Mexico Packing Checklist!
Besides being one of the top places to visit in Mexico City, the Xochimilco canals are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offer a fascinating insight into the Aztec civilization.
Carved by hand, this prehispanic civilization once used the canals as a main thoroughfare for trade and commerce.
Nowadays, the atmosphere is electric on weekends, particularly Sundays. Expect hundreds of traditional trajinera boats traveling the canals, as the sounds of live Mariachi bands fill the air.
Food vendors float by too, serving an array of traditional Mexican cuisine and drinks, like pulque, a pre-hispanic adult beverage.
However for a quieter and more relaxing experience, you’ll want to visit Xochimilco during the week.
As you have to negotiate boat prices and coordinate tours with guides onsite, who may or may not speak English, the best way to go is a Xochimilco tour from Mexico City.
Those looking for a unique and creepy experience should take the long boat tour to the Isla de Muñecas, or Xochimilco Island of the Dolls.
This Mexico dark tourism site is something straight out of a horror movie, with baby doll parts hanging from trees throughout the island.
For fans of dark tourism, it’s a must-add to your Mexico City itinerary.
Submitted by Char of Char’s Footsteps
UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
25. Guanajuato Mummy Museum
📍 The Guanajuato Mummy Museum is located in Guanajuato City, Mexico.
Looking for off-beat and interesting places to visit in Mexico?
Look no further than the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Guanajuato City, Mexico, and the Museo de las Momias (Guanajuato Mummy Museum).
Though not for everyone, this out-of-the-box museum is perfect for those who seek out the unusual and off-beat.
In fact, the Guanajuato Mexico Mummy Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico for dark tourism enthusiasts.
The Mummy Museum in Guanajuato, located minutes from downtown Guanajuato City, has the world’s largest collection of natural, intact mummies — with about 100 on display.
“Natural” means the bodies mummified naturally due to the high mineral content in the ground.
The history of the Guanajuato Mummies
The story behind the museum dates back to the late 1800s, when a deadly plague swept through the Guanajuato area.
Sadly, the plague claimed many lives, resulting in an extensive amount of burials in a short period of time.
A few decades later, Guanajuato’s government imposed a “burial tax,” and started making the living family members pay a tax on their buried loved ones.
Since many relatives couldn’t afford to pay it, the corpses were exhumed, and they turned out to be mummified from being in the mineral-rich soil.
As one of the most popular things to do in Guanajuato, you’ll want to arrive early to beat and avoid the crowds, and even plan to visit on a weekday in the early afternoon, if possible.
While there aren’t any explicitly gore-filled exhibits, the nature of the museum may disturb some.
Unique Places to Visit in Mexico Map
Each of the 25 unique places to visit in Mexico mentioned in this article have been pinned to the handy Mexico map above, so you’ll have a better idea of their location in Mexico.
With such a big country — the 14th largest country, in fact — visiting places in Mexico, for many, will come down to location. Besides physical location, these are all safe places to visit in Mexico.
However, no place on Earth is 100% safe. To learn more about safety, keep reading to check out the Mexico Travel FAQ section for Mexico safety tips after you decide on places in Mexico to visit.
Mexico Travel Guide & FAQ
Is Mexico safe for travel?
Wondering about Mexico travel safety, or even Is Mexico safe for solo travel? The short answer is Yes — for the most part, Mexico is safe for travelers.
As travel safety is a complex question, head to Is Mexico Safe? 25 Tips to Stay Safe in Mexico for a much more in-depth explanation.
While Mexico is generally quite safe for visitors, do keep in mind that no place on Earth is 100% safe.
For this reason, you’ll want to follow the 10 General Safety Guidelines and other travel safety suggestions below. These are the same ones you’d follow when traveling anywhere, and they will suffice in Mexico.
unique PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
Should I get travel insurance for Mexico?
Legally, you do not need to. However, many people do get travel insurance for Mexico to deal with all the things that come up which we never planned would come up.
Want an added level of security and peace of mind on your Mexico trip?
Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while traveling.
I’ll be honest, when I first started traveling in Mexico, I wasn’t insured. However, I finally wised up.
Now, I have a whole page of this website dedicated to travel insurance, because it’s just that important.
unique PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
Do I need to learn Spanish to travel to Mexico?
If you stick to the most popular places in Mexico, the “on the beaten path places,” then you can get by with just English.
However, it is good manners to learn at last some basic Spanish when you visit Mexico. For this, you can save the infographic above on your phone so you’ll always have the words and phrases you need, even if you’re off-WiFi.
unique PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
Register for the STEP Program
For U.S. citizens, make sure you enroll in the FREE STEP Program before your trip.
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, allows U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico to document your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
After you’ve registered, the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to where you’re traveling can contact you in the event of an emergency, including natural disasters, civil unrest, etc.
STEP can also put you in touch with your family and friends back home in the event of an emergency while abroad.
unique PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
10 General Travel Safety Tips for Mexico
1. Always listen to your intuition — because your intuition is always right.
2. If you get a sketchy or uneasy feeling about a person or place, get away from that person or place asap. Don’t worry about making a kind, nice or politically correct exit from a creepy person or bad situation — Just get away fast.
3. Don’t walk home alone at night; use Ubers and taxis. If you have to, stick to main streets that are well-lit.
4. Don’t keep your phone, keys, wallet, passport, or anything valuable in your back pocket. This is the easiest place someone can steal them from.
5. Learn some basic Spanish. If you can’t learn it, save this infographic as an image on your phone so you have something to use even if you’re off-WiFi.
6. Take all of your belongings into the bathroom with you, rather than asking a cafe/bar neighbor to watch your things. This is annoying, but it works to not get your stuff stolen.
7. Speaking of cafe and bar neighbors, don’t take drinks from strangers and/or leave your drink unattended.
8. Don’t wear flashy clothes, expensive jewelry, designer sunglasses, etc.
9. Keep some cash in your pocket so you don’t have to pull your whole wallet out every time you need to pay.
10. Get Mexico Travel Insurance for your trip.
unique PLACES TO VISIT IN MEXICO
What do I include on my Mexico packing list?
What you need to know first is that Mexico is a big country, and it has varied climates — so you must pack strategically.
While most Mexico beaches and beach towns have warm to hot temperatures year-round, double check the weather in the specific place you’re headed — as there’s more temperature fluctuations than most people realize.
As a general rule, Mexican tend to dress on the conservative side. Even in hotter places and pueblos (small towns), jeans and long sleeves are the norm for what to wear in Mexico.
While on beaches it’s normal to see shorts and sandals, in cities you’ll definitely stand out. For a detailed guide on packing for Mexico, head to The Ultimate Packing List for Mexico.
🧳 FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico
Need a more detailed Mexico packing guide? Download your FREE printable packing list for Mexico here — it covers both Mexico beach packing and Mexico city packing.
This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico.