10 Beautiful Mexican Cities That Will Change the Way You See Mexico

READY TO DISCOVER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CITY IN MEXICO?

While the “most beautiful” is subjective — you’re definitely in the right place. This article will show you 30 of the most beautiful cities in Mexico so that you can decide which one should take the title!

I have lived in Mexico since 2018, and as a digital nomad, I’ve been lucky enough to spend many years traveling and living in many different Mexican cities.

From the bustling and chaotic yet charming streets of Mexico City to beachfront Tulum with its boho vibes, I’ve explored them all — and now I want to share all of my insider knowledge with you.

Ready to uncover the famous towns of Mexico with a picturesque look? Let’s go!

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1. Mexico City

Mexico City largest cathedral — The giant Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the most **famous landmarks in Mexico**.

Mexico City (AKA CDMX), the sprawling capital in the heart of the country, is a treasure trove of history, tacos, culture, and modernity.

It’s actually the largest city in North America.

As one of the world’s most important cultural and financial centers, CDMX is where ancient meets modern.

The city is a canvas painted with Aztec Ruins, preserved colonial architecture, and skyscrapers.

Personally, I think this is the best city in the world! In fact, I’d advise you not to trust any list of the best Mexican cities that don’t prominently feature CDMX.

🇲🇽 Must-visit Spots in Mexico City

colorful Xochimilco boats cdmx — The Floating Gardens of **Xochimilco** are a Mexico must see for most visitors.

Mexico City Day of the Dead Parade Route — **Mexico City Day of the Dead parade** has brought many spectators.

Just walking through the bustling streets offers a glimpse into the country’s soul, with the Centro Historico and the Zocalo (Latin America’s largest main square) standing as proud reminders of its rich past.

Don’t miss Xochimilco’s colorful trajineras and floating gardens, a UNESCO Heritage Site that offers a unique experience.

For those looking to dive deeper into Mexico’s history, a day trip to the nearby Teotihuacan pyramids is a must.

As you can see, there are so many things to do in Mexico City.

You could spend months there and not see it all — so make sure you have a solid Mexico City itinerary in place.

🌮 Mexico City’s Art Scene and Food Hubs

frida kahlo museum — The Casa Azul (Blue House) Museum of **Frida Kahlo** is a must-visit for art lovers.

cochinita pibil tacos at taqueria el turix polanco mexico city — Wanna have Mexican culinary experience? Get **tacos** from Taqueria el Turix.

Mexico City is an essential stop to understand the heart of Mexico. With about 150-175 museums (it depends on who you ask), beautiful Mexico City is also a paradise for art lovers.

The culinary scene is just as vibrant, from street food stalls serving tacos, tamales and more, to high-end restaurants offering innovative dishes by some of the best Mexican chefs.

2. Oaxaca City (Oaxaca de Juarez)

traditional dancers in oaxaca mexico — Throughout the city you’re bound to see parades on weekends and holidays.

Oaxaca City is one you don’t want to miss! Located in the valleys of Southern Mexico, the capital of Oaxaca state is a cultural feast for the senses.

Renowned for its rich indigenous heritage and culinary excellence, the city is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the depth of Mexican traditions.

💧 key Attractions in Oaxaca Mexico

shot of mezcal in oaxaca — **Mezcal tasting** is a must do, and one of the best things to do in Oaxaca.

woman in black dress standing next to a tree in hierve el agua in oaxaca — **Hierve el Agua** is the most famous of all Oaxaca natural wonders.

Oaxaca’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a picturesque array of colonial buildings, cobbled streets, and bustling markets like the Benito Juárez Market and 20 de Noviembre Market.

Here, you can taste local specialties such as mole, tlayudas, tejate and mezcal — some of the best Oaxaca foods.

Art enthusiasts will find the Oaxaca City’s galleries and museums captivating, showcasing traditional and contemporary art.

For adventurers, the surrounding landscapes offer unique experiences like the ancient ruins of Monte Albán, offering a window into Zapotec civilization, or the natural mineral formations at Hierve el Agua Waterfall.

Oaxaca is also home to the El Tule tree. This is one a popular attraction in Oaxaca, as it holds the Guinness World Record for the widest tree on Earth.

Oaxaca is also famous for its Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations, an immersive cultural experience reflecting the locals’ vibrant approach to life and death.

3. Tulum

Ven a la Luz sculpture in tulum — The Ven a la Luz **statue by Daniel Popper** is located in Tulum, one of the Top 10 beautiful cities in Mexico.

The first beach on this list of the best cities in Mexico, Tulum is a stunning coastal town on the Caribbean Sea in the Yucatan Peninsula.

If you’re looking for a fun beach city in the country, Tulum Mexico is a wonderful contender.

Tulum is renowned for its breathtaking beaches and ancient Mayan ruins perched atop cliffs overlooking turquoise waters.

This once sleepy fisherman’s village has transformed into a trendy destination for travelers seeking sun, sand, and culture.

While Mexico really has some nice beaches, Tulum is in a class all its own.

🗿 Ruins and Cenotes in Tulum

woman in black dress visiting tulum mayan ruins — The **Mayan Ruins of Tulum Mexico** is one of the most iconic Tulum landmarks.

people swimming in cenote atik — **Cenote Atik** is one of the best Tulum cenotes, just minutes from downtown.

Highlights include the Tulum Archaeological Site, where you can explore the remnants of Mayan civilization, and the nearby cenotes (pronounced sen-no-tays).

These are natural underground pools, perfect for cooling off after a day in the sun.

Adventure seekers can glimpse diverse wildlife with must-do activities like snorkeling in Akumal, swimming with turtles, and venturing to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.

Tulum’s laid-back vibe is complemented by its boutique hotels, yoga retreats, and thriving culinary scene, which offers everything from street tacos to gourmet dining experiences.

It is considered one of the best tourist cities in Mexico because there are just so many things to do in Tul u m.

4. San Miguel de Allende

Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel in San Miguel de Allende Mexico — San Miguel de Allende, one of the famous cities of Mexico, is a Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site located in **Guanajuato** State.

Though beauty is in the eye of the beholder, when it comes to beautiful Mexican cities, San Miguel de Allende is one hands-down of the prettiest cities.

Nestled in the heart of Central Mexico’s Guanajuato state, SMA is a jewel of colorful colonial architecture, street scenes, and cultural richness.

About a four-hour drive north of Mexico City, it’s an artistic haven that has attracted a diverse international community. In fact, it’s one of the top cities for expats in Mexico.

⛪️ Where to go in San Miguel de Allende

colorful streets in san miguel de allende mexico — The small town of San Miguel de Allende is one of the **best day trips from Mexico City**.

Looking for things to do in San Miguel de Allende? As one of the best places to visit and top cities in Mexico for tourists, you have plenty of options.

San Miguel de Allende is known for its stunning churches, like the iconic pink Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, and lively festivals, like the annual La Calaca Festival, celebrating the Day of the Dead.

The city’s cobblestone streets, lined with colorful houses and flowering balconies, invite leisurely exploration. You could easily spend the day just taking photos.

Best way to enjoy San Miguel Allende is through this Historical and Cultural Walking Tour.

Art lovers will delight in the Fabrica La Aurora, an art and design center housed in a former textile factory.

The Mercado de San Juan de Dios offers local foods and crafts for a taste of local life.

One of the best cities to visit for foodies, there are also great restaurants like Aperi SMA. It is run by Omar Henriquez, one of the top Mexican chefs working today.

San Miguel’s temperate climate and the warm hospitality of its residents make it the perfect place to visit year-round.

Plus, it is one of the safest Mexican cities on this list, so it’s ideal for your next trip to Mexico.

5. Mérida

colorful sign that reads MERIDA, one of the safest cities in Mexico — Merida is known as one of the most beautiful **colonial cities in Mexico**.

Known as the capital of Yucatán, Mérida is a city where colonial history and Mayan cultural roots connect under the warm Mexican sun.

Located about 3.5 hours west of Cancún by car, Mérida is known as the “White City” for its beautiful limestone buildings that glisten in the sunlight.

🇲🇽 Merida must-visit spots

day trip from merida to progreso beach, mexico — **Puerto Progreso Beach Mexico** is a popular Merida weekend trip.

woman on a chichen itza private tours in front of the El Casillo pyramid — **Chichen Itza tour from Merida** is one of the top activities in the city.

This city is a gateway to exploring ancient Mayan sites like Uxmal and Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Mérida’s broad avenues include grand mansions and leafy plazas like the Plaza Grande (Main Plaza).

The Paseo de Montejo, a long, walkable, tree-lined street, offers a look into its rich past with its Parisian-inspired boulevards and stately homes.

To taste local culture, visit the bustling Mercado Lucas de Gálvez. Here, you can try Yucatecan specialties like cochinita pibil, salbutes and panuchos.

The city’s modern side includes contemporary art galleries, chic boutiques, and an innovative dining scene that blends traditional flavors with a modern twist.

6. Puerto Vallarta

woman in blue dress in front of the colonial church in puerto vallarta mexico — Strolling the historic center is one of the **best things to do in Puerto Vallarta**.

Looking for some of the most beautiful Mexican beach towns?

Right on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta stands out as one of the prettiest towns in Mexico, offering a blend of natural beauty, traditional Mexican culture, and modern amenities.

🏝️ Why Puerto Vallarta is a Must-visit City

fishing boats in puerto vallarta mexico — You can take numerous **boat tours** from the Puerto Vallarta beaches.

woman at marietas islands hidden beach in mexico — The **Marietas Islands** are some of the best places I visited in Mexico.

Its stunning bay, Bahía de Banderas, is a playground for water sports enthusiasts, while the lush Sierra Madre mountains provide a picturesque backdrop.

The heart of Puerto Vallarta lies in its Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone), where cobbled streets lead to markets, beachfront restaurants, and bars. 🏝️ Fun Facts: This isn’t far from where Elizabeth Taylor lived!

Art lovers will appreciate the numerous galleries showcasing local art, and the iconic Our Lady of Guadalupe church adds a historical touch.

One of the best cities in Mexico to visit for adventure seekers, travelers can explore the nearby jungles through ATV tours or take a boat trip to the beautiful Marietas Islands National Park (Islas Marietas).

As the sun sets, the Malecón boardwalk comes alive with performers, making Puerto Vallarta a perfect mix of laid-back beach life and cultural richness.

7. Guanajuato City

yellow colonial church in guanajuato mexico — Guanajuato is the most beautiful city Mexico has, with iconic landmarks that are visited by tourists from all over the world.

Guanajuato City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is celebrated as one of the prettiest places in Mexico.

Its colonial buildings, narrow alleyways, and colorful facades are set in a picturesque valley in central Mexico.

Famous for its underground streets and tunnels that wind beneath the city, Guanajuato offers a unique urban experience.

🏛️ Guanajuato Top Spots

brightly colored home and buildings in the colorful colonial town of Guanajuato City, Guanajuato, Mexico, located in central Mexico, and a safe place for female solo Mexico travel — The colorful buildings make Guanajuato the most beautiful city in Mexico if you love bright colors.

The city’s atmosphere is best experienced during the International Cervantino Festival, which attracts artists and spectators from around the globe.

Key attractions include the Juarez Theater, the panoramic view from the Pipila Monument, and the eerie yet fascinating Museo de las Momias (Mummy Museum in Mexico).

Guanajuato’s lively plazas, such as the Jardín de la Unión, are perfect for coffee and soaking up the local culture.

For a touch of romance, the Callejón del Beso (Alley of the Kiss) is a must-visit.

The city’s rich mining history is another layer of its deep cultural heritage, making it a captivating destination for history buffs and casual visitors.

8. Campeche City (San Francisco de Campeche)

campeche sign — Campeche is one of the off the beaten path destinations in Yucatan.

Campeche is a coastal city on the Yucatán Peninsula. It is one of the popular Mexico cities, known for its well-preserved colonial fortifications and historic district.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mexico, Campeche’s historic center is encircled by ancient walls and dotted with colorful buildings, reflecting its past as a Spanish colonial port besieged by pirates.

🏛️ Historical Spots in Campeche

old canyon in a campeche fort facing the ocean — Visiting the historical fort is one of the **best things to do in Campeche City**.

Walking through the cobblestone streets, visitors can admire the beautifully restored colonial mansions and visit the impressive Fort San Miguel, which now houses a Mayan artifact museum.

The Campeche Malecón (seafront promenade) offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico.

The Puerta de Tierra and the Museo de la Arquitectura Maya are must-sees for those interested in the area’s pirate history.

You can book this Campeche: Highlights, Museums and Downtown Tour to better experience the city.

9. Mazatlán

coast of mexico mazatlan — Mazatlán is one of the top **Mexico spring break destinations**.

With its golden beaches and historic charm, Mazatlán is often cited as one of the most beautiful towns in Mexico for sun and fun.

A coastal city situated on the Pacific Ocean, it seamlessly blends old-world Mexican culture with the vibrancy of a bustling beach town.

For visitors, the Golden Zone is known as the most beautiful part of town.

🏝️ Best places to visit in Mazatlán

Mazatlan Malecon de Boardwalk — The Malecón de Mazatlán Boardwalk is a long walkway with unique buildings along the Pacific Ocean.

Centro Histórico, or Old Mazatlan, is a treasure trove of 19th-century architectural wonders, lively plazas, and quaint cafes.

The famous Malecón Boardwalk, one of the longest boardwalks in the world, offers stunning ocean views and large-scale outdoor art installations.

For an unforgettable experience, climb the El Faro Lighthouse for panoramic vistas, or catch a performance at the Angela Peralta Theater.

Mazatlan is also a gateway to outdoor adventures, from deep-sea fishing to exploring nearby islands like Stone Island (Isla de las Piedras) and Deer Island (Isla de Venados).

10. Morelia

colonial church in morelia mexico, michoacan state — The colonial church in Morelia is one of the spots you can visit during **Morelia tours**.

Looking for the prettiest city in Mexico? While that’s subjective, this is my pick…

Morelia, the capital of Michoacán, is celebrated for its over 200 historic buildings made of pink stone, earning it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Founded in the 16th Century, the city is a living museum of Spanish colonial architecture, featuring majestic structures like the Morelia Cathedral, notable for its stunning baroque exterior and intricate interior.

Visitors can stroll along the Callejón del Romance, a picturesque alley, or explore the Aqueduct of Morelia, an engineering marvel of the colonial era.

🦋 Monarch Butterfly Migration

monarch butterfly flocking on the ground in El Rosario butterfly sanctuary — Monarch butterflies flocking on the ground in El Rosario Sanctuary near Morelia.

A key attraction near Morelia is the annual migration of monarch butterflies.

Just a short drive away, the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve offers a unique natural spectacle as millions of butterflies converge in the Oyamel fir forests, typically between November and March.

Looking to Discover More Unique Places in Mexico?

woman standing in the circlular pad in cenote suytun — **Cenote Suytun**, located in the Yucatan Peninsula, is a visitor favorite.

Mexico is a large country — the 14th largest country on Earth by size — and it’s also the 6th most biodiverse diverse country in the world.

Though it’s mostly known for beaches, there’s a lot more to Mexico than that. Check out these Mexico articles to discover parts of the country you never knew existed.

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