10 Mexico Hidden Gems You Need to Know About (Before Everyone Else Does)
Looking to discover Mexico Hidden gems?
You’re in the right place — and with the right guide — as venturing off the beaten path in Mexico to hidden gems is kinda my thing.
Also, I live in Mexico, and have since 2018. I’ve personally been to each place on the list, some more than once.
The great thing about planning a trip to Mexico is that it’s huge. There’s something and somewhere for everyone, as you’ll soon see.
As someone who’s been to half the states in Mexico, this guide is intended to shed some light on a country that is so much more than just Tulum, Cancun and Cabo San Lucas.
That’s not to say those places aren’t wonderful, just that you won’t find them here.
Rather, this article is about traveling off the beaten path in Mexico — but not so off the beaten path you won’t have plenty of Airbnb options, hot showers and WiFi.
By the end of this article, your Mexico bucket list will have 10 more amazing places on it, from the best non-touristy places in Mexico, to pueblos magicos (magic towns), and even one hidden beach in Mexico.
Ready to get to this list? Let’s dive in and discover some hidden gems in Mexico.
1. Bacalar Lagoon
Laguna Bacalar (Bacalar Lagoon) is basically a postcard. This blue waters in this freshwater lake is the main draw in the pueblo magico Bacalar.
In case you’ve never heard of a Mexico pueblo magico, or magic town, let’s clarify before we go any further.
🤔 What is a pueblo magico?
The Mexican Tourism Board awards the prestigious distinction of pueblo magico to small towns in the country with certain characteristics like unique culture, historic relevance and exceptional natural beauty.
There are five pueblos magicos on this list, but about 177 in total in all Mexico. Bacalar is one of the best pueblos magicos in the Yucatan Peninsula.
🗺 Where is Bacalar located?
Bacalar is in Quintana Roo state, in the Yucatan Peninsula, in southeastern Mexico. It is in the southern part of the state, and less than an hour from the Mexico-Belize border.
This part of Mexico is home to the Mayans, who call Bacalar the “Lagoon of Seven Colors.” (You’ll also sometimes see it called the “Lake of Seven Colors.”)
Ranging in depth from 0- to 200-feet (0-60 m), you’ll see the bright blues in the shallows, and the dark indigo blues in the deeper areas.
The blue waters of Bacalar Lagoon has earned it the nickname, the Maldives of Mexico.
📍 What is Bacalar Near?
Not far from Bacalar, there are some lesser-visited Yucatan Mayan Ruins, like Kohunlich Ruins, Chacchoben Ruins and Becan Ruins.
The Mexican Caribbean beach town of Mahahual, Mexico is also nearby, and located on the Costa Maya (Mayan Coast).
Popular Mexico destinations like Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Cancun, are within driving distance by rental car or bus.
In fact, many travelers will rent a car in Cancun and drive to Bacalar.
📆 What’s the best time to visit Bacalar?
Being in the tropics, Bacalar weather is hot year-round. The summers tend to be the hottest, rainiest, and have the most mosquitoes.
While the months of November to May can be busier, they have the best weather to enjoy Bacalar Lake.
🤔 Is Bacalar worth visiting?
If you’re looking for a calm, beautiful place that’s known more for nature than nightlife, then yes, you’re going to fall in love with Bacalar Lake.
While here, you can do all of the quintessential vacation things — swim, eat and drink, read, lay in a hammock, chill, think, watch the sunrise and admire nature.
There are some bars, but this isn’t really a party town.
Best Things to Do in Bacalar
⛵️ BACALAR boat tours
Lake Bacalar is the second largest freshwater lake in the Mexico at about 26-miles-long (42 km). The best way to see it all is on a boat tour.
On Bacalar tours of the lagoon, you’ll see all the best sites, including the Canal de los Piratas (Pirate’s Channel), Cenote la Bruja (Witch’s Cenote) and Isla de los Pajaros (Bird Island).
🏊♀️ LOS RAPIDOS BACALAR
One of the lagoon’s most popular places to spend the day is Los Rapidos, which means The Rapids.
As the name implies, there are actually fast-moving rapids you can ride, swim in and play in!
There’s a restaurant, bar, kayak rentals, water hammocks, swings and bathrooms, so you can easily hang out there all day long.
Los Rapidos is one of the Bacalar balnearios, which are essentially beach clubs.
As Los Rapidos is on the outskirts of Bacalar Lake, definitely check out some of the more centrally-located balnearios, like Cocalitos, Los Aluxes Bacalar and Bacalar Beach Club.
💧 CENOTE AZUL BACALAR
Besides Bacalar Lagoon itself, you’ll want to check out the Bacalar cenotes, including the second most popular place to swim in Bacalar, Cenote Azul (Blue Cenote).
This is one of the deepest Yucatan cenotes, at about 300-feet-deep (91 m).
Just as with the balnearios in Bacalar, you could spend the whole day at Cenote Azul, as there’s a restaurant, lockers for your stuff and bathrooms onsite.
How Do I Travel to Bacalar?
✈️ FLYING TO BACALAR
The closest airport is Chetumal International Airport (CTM), located about 30-45 minutes away in the city of Chetumal.
You can get a connecting flight through the Mexico City and Guadalajara Airports.
🚗💨 DRIVING TO BACALAR
Yucatan road trips are quite common, as there’s so many Yucatan Peninsula must see places.
For this reason, and because Bacalar is quite remote, driving is a great option.
It is easily accessible from any of the other top Yucatan travel destinations: plan for 4.5 hours from Cancun and Merida, and 3.5 hours from Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Valladolid.
🚌 BUS TO BACALAR
The best way to get to most Mexico hidden gems is actually by bus.
Bus transportation in Mexico is very common, just opt for the luxury class busses, sit back and enjoy the ride.
The biggest company is ADO, which goes just about everywhere.
2. Guanajuato City
Guanajuato City (pronounced wan-uh-wat-toe) is like being in a painting.
You’ll love spending the day taking travel photos while just walking the town’s narrow, winding alleyways.
These quaint streets look like something right out of an old European village — just way more colorful.
Guanajuato is a festive town with several universities and festivals throughout the year.
This includes one of the biggest festivals in all of Mexico, the International Cervantino Festival, which takes place in October.
This is followed immediately by Day of the Dead in Guanajuato, Dia de los Muertos, on November 1-2.
Guanajuato is one of the best places to celebrate Day of the Dead in Mexico.
🌺💀🌺 Mexico Day of the Dead on your bucket list? Head to this article for info on Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, one of the country’s biggest celebrations.
🗺 Where is Guanajuato located?
Guanajuato City is the capital of Guanajuato state, in central Mexico about 4.5 hours west of Mexico City.
As Guanajuato is both the name of the city and the state, this can get confusing because the town is usually just referred to as Guanajuato, rather than Guanajuato City.
📍 What is Guanajuato Near?
There are so many great places right around Guanajuato that this area of the country makes for a great trip in itself.
The beautiful Mexico colonial towns San Miguel de Allende, Queretaro are nearby, and the smaller pueblos of Peña de Bernal and Tequisquiapan are also less than 1.5 hours away.
Beyond these, Mexico’s largest cities, Mexico City and Guadalajara, are both accessible by rental car, bus, or a short flight.
🌡 What’s the best time to visit Guanajuato?
Central Mexico, where Guanajuato is located, has what’s known as an “Eternal Spring” climate. This means Guanajuato weather is pleasant year-round.
The dry season runs November-May, which coincides with traveling to Guanajuato for Day of the Dead in Mexico.
If you do want to visit during Día de Muertos, make sure to book your Guanajuato hotel well in advance.
🤔 Is Guanajuato worth visiting?
There’s a lot to do in Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The town itself is not huge, but it is gorgeous, and actually considered one of the most beautiful places in Mexico.
For those seeking a unique Mexico cultural experience, you’ll love Guanajuato City.
MEXICO HIDDEN GEMS: GUANAJUATO CITY
Best Things to Do in Guanajuato City
🇲🇽 DOWNTOWN GUANAJUATO
The best way to experience Guanajuato City is by just walking around downtown, with essentially no agenda.
This walkable city has numerous great plazas, cafes, churches, buildings and colorful streets where you’ll love taking some travel photos — and then taking even more photos!
📸 Head here for a complete guide to all the best things to see in Guanajuato City.
💋 ALLEY OF THE KISS (CALLEJON DEL BESO)
Callejon del Beso (Alley of the Kiss) is located up on one Guanajuato’s many hills.
It is behind Plaza de Los Angeles (Plaza of the Angels), and not far from Teatro Juarez Theater and Jardin de la Union (Union Garden).
I’ll let you google the story for yourself, but if there was ever a Mexican “Romeo & Juliet” story, it happened on the two balconies.
🧟♀️ Guanajuato MUMMY MUSEUM
The town’s most popular museum, and among the top things to do in Guanajuato, is visit the Museo de las Momias (Mummy Museum).
As the name says, it really is a museum of mummies — real mummies. One of the most creepy places in Mexico, it’s not for everyone.
How Do I Travel to Guanajuato City?
🚗💨 DRIVING TO GUANAJUATO CITY
Located in Central Mexico, the Mexico City to Guanajuato drive is about 4-5 hours. It is also about four hours from Guadalajara by car.
This is generally considered a safe drive — as long as you do not drive at night.
Looking to rent a car for the drive? Check out this detailed guide, Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know.
🚌 BUS TO GUANAJUATO CITY
Mexico’s bus transportation is safe, inexpensive and reliable. For extra comfort at not much of a price difference, opt for a luxury class bus, sit back and enjoy the ride.
The biggest company is ADO, which goes just about everywhere in Mexico, but there’s also Primera Plus.
✈️ FLYING TO GUANAJUATO CITY
You can fly directly into Guanajuato International Airport (BJX), located about 30 minutes from downtown Guanajuato.
The nearby Queretaro International Airport (QRO) has several direct flights from the U.S. to Mexico, so if you’re planning a Guanajuato + San Miguel de Allende + Queretaro trip, you can compare prices.
3. Isla Holbox Island
Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh) is one of the best beach towns in Mexico, and the only island on this list of off the beaten path Mexico hidden gems.
The thing you’ll love most about Holbox is that it still manages to feel like the small town fishing village it was 20 years ago.
With the exception of a few work trucks, cars aren’t allowed on this incredible Mexico beach island.
There are no street lights, golf carts and bikes remain the main modes of transport, and the roads are paved with beach sand.
You won’t find tourist shops, Holbox tours operators don’t scream at you to buy from them, and there’s not even chain restaurants.
It’s just beautiful beaches for miles, hammocks in the water, and good vibes.
🗺 Where is Holbox located?
Isla Holbox is an island in Quintana Roo state, in the Yucatan Peninsula of southeastern Mexico.
It is located in the Caribbean Sea in the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, a protected natural area.
📍 What is Holbox Near?
As an island, there’s not much near it, but being in the Yucatan Peninsula, there are many other places easily accessible to Holbox Island, Mexico.
Many head to Holbox from Cancun, which is about three-hours by car to the town of Chiquila, where you catch the Holbox ferry.
📆 What’s the best time to visit Holbox Island?
Located in the tropics, Holbox has hot, rainy, summers.
However, many visit during this time to swim with the whale sharks in Holbox, which migrate past the island from June-September.
Beyond this popular time to visit, the months of November-March are the nicest to visit Holbox.
🤔 Is Holbox Island worth visiting?
Holbox Island is a wonderful place with a great mix of small town feel, beautiful beaches and nature, and even a bit of nighttime options.
It can be a bit of a trek to get there, but if you’re seeking unique places to visit in Mexico, Holbox checks a lot of boxes.
Best Things to Do in Holbox Island
🏝 Lay in THE Holbox HAMMOCKS
One of the most Instagram worthy spots are the Holbox hammocks in the water. If you’re looking for a relaxing spot, head to the water hammocks at Punta Cocos beach.
The more famous hammocks are on the other end of the island at Playa Holbox beach, where you’ll also find the colorful HOLBOX letters sign.
⭐️ BIOLUMINESCENCE ON HOLBOX ISLAND
Beyond the water hammocks during the day, Punta Coco beach is a great spot to watch the sunset away from the crowds, and really comes alive when the sun goes down.
At night, head to this beach to see the bioluminescence in Holbox.
You can (usually) see it all year long, but it’s most vibrant during the New Moon — when the moon’s not visible in the sky.
🐳 SWIM WITH THE WHALE SHARKS iN HOLBOX (Seasonal)
If you visit during June-September, you can take a boat tour to swim with whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean.
While these are technically sharks, they are extremely docile and don’t have sharp teeth. They are huge though — averaging about 40-feet-long (12 m) — and this is an unforgettable experience.
🌎 Practice Responsible Tourism in Mexico: Only use an ethical tour company that keeps the animals’ safety and well being as their top priority when doing a Holbox whale shark tour.
How Do I Travel to Holbox Island?
🚗💨 DRIVING TO CHIQUILA (HOLBOX ISLAND)
To get to Holbox from anywhere, you first have to get to the small town of Chiquilá, Mexico.
At the Chiquila ferry dock, you’ll buy your ticket and take the 20 minute ferry to Holbox Island.
Upon arriving to Chiquila in your rental car, you’ll have to leave it there before taking the Holbox ferry because cars are not allowed on the island.
Not to worry; there are paid parking lots right next to the dock that cost about $5 USD per day.
🚌 BUS TO CHIQUILA FERRY (HOLBOX ISLAND)
Most Yucatan bus companies have daily trips to/from Chiquila, at varying levels of comfort.
The biggest bus company is ADO, which goes just about everywhere and has luxury class buses, though Oriente and Mayab are other Chiquila bus options.
🚢 HOLBOX ISLAND FERRY
There are a couple of ferry companies that run daily, every hour or so, from about 6am-8pm.
Keep in mind Isla Holbox runs on “island time,” meaning schedules are a little more laid back.
You can buy your Holbox ferry tickets right at the dock in Chiquila.
✈️ FLYING TO HOLBOX ISLAND
Holbox also has a small airport for private planes, Aerodromo de Holbox or Holbox Aerodrome (code: HOL).
You charter the plane from Cancun for this 35-minute flight, which will cost about $600 USD for up to five people on a one-way charter.
4. Oaxaca City
Of all the places on this list, Oaxaca likely has the most name recognition, as far as Mexico hidden gems go.
But how many people do you know who have actually visited? Your answer is likely not many. This is unfortunate, because Oaxaca is simply amazing.
There’s everything here: amazing Oaxacan food, rich history, colorful festivals like Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, beautiful nature, colonial architecture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, indigenous artisan communities, and more.
🗺 Where is Oaxaca located?
Oaxaca City, Mexico, is the capital of Oaxaca state. It is located in southern Mexico, about six hours south of Mexico City.
Oaxaca is the name of the city and the state, though the town is usually just referred to as Oaxaca, rather than Oaxaca City, or Oaxaca de Juarez, its official name.
🌺💀🌺 Day of the Dead in Oaxaca
For a truly Mexico bucket list experience, the Oaxaca Dia de los Muertos celebration is well worth the trip.
Head to the linked article for everything you need to know for Oaxaca travel planning to one of the best places to experience Day of the Dead in Mexico.
📍 What is Oaxaca Near?
Oaxaca is surrounded by many other great Mexico states, but travelers commonly spend time in both Oaxaca City and the beaches of Oaxaca.
The most popular beaches include Puerto Escondido, Huatulco, Zipolite, the famed nudist beach in Mexico, and Mazunte, one of the 177 pueblos magicos in Mexico.
📆 What’s the best time to visit Oaxaca?
Want to know the best time to travel to Oaxaca? Oaxaca City’s temperate climate means this city is basically a year-round destination.
You’ll want to try to avoid Oaxaca’s rainy season from June to September, but during the other months you’ll enjoy warm days and cool nights.
If you want to avoid the crowds, Oaxaca City’s busy season runs from late-October for Day of the Dead, through March.
Though possibly rainy, many visit Oaxaca City for the Guelaguetza Festival in July.
This is known as the largest folkloric festival in Latin America, and a must for culture travelers.
🤔 Is Oaxaca worth visiting?
Can we curse around here!!? …because FU+K YES Oaxaca is worth visiting!
Oaxaca, in a word, is magical. This is the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be, and also known as a Foodie Capital of Mexico, so what’s not to love about Oaxaca!?
🍷🍽 Doing some Oaxaca solo travel? Don’t miss this article, Eating Alone While Traveling: How to Overcome Your Fear
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City
🇲🇽 Oaxaca Centro Historico
The best way to experience the city is by strolling downtown to see all the top sites in Oaxaca, like Templo de Santo Domingo, home to the Oaxaca Botanical Garden.
There’s also great museums, like the Oaxaca Textile Museum, mercados (markets) to sample delicious Oaxacan food, and beautiful buildings and colorful streets.
📸 Head here for a complete guide to all the best things to see in Centro Historico, Oaxaca City.
💧 HIERVE EL AGUA IN OAXACA
Hierve el Agua (Boiling Water) is one of most beautiful and Instagram worthy Oaxaca places.
Actually, it’s technically about 40 miles outside of the city in the town of Roeguia, but you can get there within an hour by taxi or opt to go on a Hierve el Agua tour.
🗿 MONTE ALBAN Oaxaca
Both Centro Historico (Historic Downtown) and Monte Alban are UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Oaxaca.
The prehispanic city of Monte Alban functioned as the capital of Oaxaca’s indigenous Zapotec people until 800 AD, when it was then uninhabited for unknown reasons.
As one of the top Oaxaca sites, head there early to beat the crowds.
💀 BONUS: DAY OF THE DEAD in oaxaca
Each year, from November 1-2, many Mexicans believe the veil to the spirit world is lifted and our departed family members return Earth-side.
Rather than a somber funerary event, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a celebration.
Families join together to create elaborate ofrendas (alters), filled with marigold flowers, candles, copal incense, photos of their loved one, and whatever food and drink they would want to consume on their arrival.
🌺💀🌺 Head here for a complete guide to planning your trip to Day of the Dead in Oaxaca City.
How Do I Travel to Oaxaca City?
✈️ FLYING TO OAXACA
You can fly directly into Oaxaca International Airport (OAX), as there’s direct flights from several U.S. cities.
The airport is only about 25 minutes from downtown, and easily accessible by taxi, colectivo (small, shared van) or private taxi.
🚕 Oaxaca Travel Tips: There’s no Uber in Oaxaca, but there are plenty of taxis. There is also a ride-share app called DiDi, where you can call a taxi and pay via app.
🚗💨 Driving TO OAXACA CITY
Oaxaca is in southern Mexico, about six hours by car from Mexico City.
The drive is generally considered safe, but make sure you always rent a car in Mexico from a reputable company, like Discover Cars, and get full coverage insurance.
🚌 BUS TO OAXACA
For bus travel, ADO, Mexico’s largest company, has day and overnight trip options.
As roads in Oaxaca aren’t always the best, taking the bus sometimes doubles travel time.
🏝 OAXACA CITY TO PUERTO ESCONDIDO
Also headed to the coast of Oaxaca? Smart choice!
Coastal Oaxaca has some of the best beaches in Mexico — from the world famous surf town of Puerto Escondido, to the pueblo magico (magic town) of Mazunte, to laid back Huatulco, and the Mexico nude beach of Zipolite.
🚌 🚙 ✈️ Head here to discover all your transportation options in this Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido: 5 Transportation Options.
5. Las Grutas Tolantongo
Grutas Tolantongo, AKA Tolantongo grutas or Tolantongo caves, is gorgeous, and one of the most Instagram worthy places in Mexico.
It is also one of the best Mexico City day trips and weekend trips, located about four hours north of the city.
As one of the best Mexico hidden gems, with emphasis on “hidden,” planning a trip to Las Grutas de Tolantongo isn’t always quick.
In fact, the easiest way to go is on a Mexico City to Tolantongo Tour, which is often more economical than visiting on your own.
🗺 Where is Las Grutas Tolantongo located?
The Grutas de Tolantongo is located in Hidalgo state, in central Mexico.
Hidalgo state is one of the lesser-visited states in Mexico, but one of the best places to enjoy the country’s lush, green, unspoiled nature.
📍 What is Las Grutas Tolantongo Near?
Hidalgo state and the Tolantongo Grutas is between 3-5 hours from a few other top Mexico travel destinations, like Mexico City to the south, and Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, and Queretaro, to the west.
📆 What’s the best time to visit Las Grutas Tolantongo?
Tolantongo is open all year to visit, and as the water comes from a hot spring, you can swim all year also.
As it’s located in Central Mexico, which has what is known as an “Eternal Spring” weather, expect springtime temperatures for most of the year.
🤔 Is Las Grutas Tolantongo worth visiting?
If you have the time in your trip, love being in nature, enjoy venturing off the beaten path, and want to visit one of the most beautiful places in Mexico, then Tolantongo is worth a visit.
As it’s a bit remote, you’ll have to use 1-2 days of your Mexico trip, but you won’t regret it after visiting Grutas Tolantongo.
Best Things to do in Grutas de Tolantongo
💧 Tolantongo CAVE AND TUNNEL
Located right next to one another, this part of Tolantongo is where most of the hot water comes from, that then feeds out to the whole site.
To enter, you’ll get in line, which does move fast, and pass under a small waterfall that goes inside the Tolantongo cave.
💧 tolantongo POOLS
These are Tolantongo hot springs where all the Instagram shots happen.
Located right next to the pools, don’t pass up the chance to walk across the Suspension Bridge to get some amazing views of the canyon below.
📸 Tolantongo Travel Tips: If you’re looking to get the Instagram money shot and don’t want any other people in your photos, be at the pools within the first 30 minutes of opening — like I was in the photo above.
💧 tolantongo River
While the Tolantongo pools are the most photographed place, the river is one of the most beautiful places at Tolantongo.
It cascades down in sections, and at each section, you can sit under the water as it falls on you for a natural hydro-massage.
How Do I Travel to Grutas de Tolantongo?
🎟 Grutas Tolantongo Tours
From Mexico City, a group tour is the most convenient, and often, most inexpensive, way to visit Tolantongo.
You save money not paying for a hotel room at one of the Tolantongo resorts, and returning to the same day.
Also, not dealing with a rental car, insurance, gas, and driving in a foreign country makes the tour the easiest option.
Head here for all the best options for Mexico City to Tolantongo tours.
🚗💨 DRIVING TO Las Grutas Tolantongo
Besides a tour, the second easiest way to visit Tolantongo is in a private rental car from Discover Cars.
The drive from Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, and Guanajuato is about 4-5 hours, and from Queretero, about 2-3 hours.
🚌 BUS TO Las Grutas Tolantongo
As bus travel is quite popular in Mexico, there is a way to get from Mexico City to Grutas Tolantongo on the bus, however, it does take a while.
Head here for the complete Mexico City to Tolantongo bus and public transport route.
6. San Cristobal de las Casas
Located about 1.5 miles above sea level, way up in the Central Highlands, you’ll find the mountain town of San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico.
This pueblo magico (magic town) lives up to its magical name for nature, food and culture lovers.
Those continuing on to Central America from Mexico will often use San Cristobal as a last stop, because you can do a land crossing into Guatemala from this part of Mexico.
This is also a popular place for backpackers, as it’s safe and inexpensive.
🗺 Where is San Cristobal de las Casas located?
San Cristobal de las Casas is the Chiapas state, located in southern Mexico.
It is at a higher elevation of about 1.5-miles (2.4 km), so make sure you’re prepared with this altitude sickness bracelet and these altitude sickness meds so you don’t get altitude sickness if you’re not used to being this high up.
📍 What is San Cristobal de las Casas Near?
San Cristobal borders Oaxaca state to the west, and Guatemala to the east. It is the second biggest city in the state, behind the capital city, Tuxtla Guitierrez.
Many combine their trip with visits to Tuxtla Guitierrez, as well as Palenque and Chiapa de Corzo, two of the Mexico pueblos magicos.
📆 What’s the best time to visit San Cristobal de las Casas?
Located quite far up in the mountains, San Cristobal de las Casas weather is cooler than what most associate with Mexico weather.
It’s more of a misty rainforest feel here, with cooler temperatures, and a pretty intense rainy season.
For the best weather, head to San Cristobal from November to April.
🤔 Is San Cristobal de las Casas worth visiting?
San Cristobal de las Casas still feels very connected to its indigenous Mayan heritage.
This is the perfect place for anyone who wants a true Mexican cultural experience, but also posh accommodations — like Hotel Bo and Casa del Alma Hotel Boutique & Spa — two of the best hotels in San Cristobal de las Casas.
Best Things to Do in San Cristobal
🚶♀️ Stroll San Cristobal Centro Historico
San Cristobal is a small Colonial town, and completely walkable.
Spend some time roaming the streets to see the colorful buildings and eat amazing food — perhaps some of the same local foods you’ll prepare in this top-rated cooking class.
Besides food, don’t miss the Mayan Textiles Museum, widely known as the best museum in San Cristobal.
🚤 Sumidero Canyon Boat Tour
Head back to Tuxtla Gutierrez to do the boat tour of Cañyon del Sumidero (Sumidero Canyon), one of the largest navigable canyons on Earth.
In some areas, the walls of Canyon Sumidero are 3,300-feet-tall (1,000 m).
You can usually purchase a tour for about $30-50 USD from a number of tour operators in Downtown San Cristobal de las Casas.
🗿 Palenque Ruins
Don’t miss some of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico in Palenque, a pueblo magico in Chiapas state.
If you have the time, spend the night there, as it’s about five hours from San Cristobal.
There are day trips to Palenque from San Cristobal, though be warned that it is a long day, though if you only have one day, it’s worth the trek.
How Do I Travel to San Cristobal de las Casas?
✈️ FLYING TO SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS
The closest airport to San Cristobal de las Casas is Tuxtla Gutierrez International Airport (Code: TGZ).
It is located in Tuxtla Gutierrez, the capital and largest city in Chapas state.
From there, you can take a colectivo (small, shared van), taxi, or rental car for the one hour drive to San Cristobal.
🚕 San Cristobal de las Casas Travel Tips: There’s no Uber in San Cristobal and no Uber in Chiapas state, but there are plenty of taxis.
🚗💨 DRIVING TO San cristobal
As Chiapas is quite remote, you might not want to drive here.
The closest place frequented by visitors is Oaxaca City, at about 8-9 hours away, though this isn’t known to be the safest drive.
🚌 BUS TO San cristobal
As San Cristobal is a popular place for backpackers, bus travel here is quite popular.
As not much is near here, opt for a luxury class bus ticket on ADO, for what might be a long journey to this off the beaten path Mexico destination.
7. Campeche City
Though San Francisco de Campeche City, AKA Campeche City, is quaint at about 25 square blocks, there’s still some amazing things to do in Campeche, Mexico.
The walled city of Campeche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its beautiful colorful streets, and fort walls once used to ward off pirate attacks.
🗺 Where is Campeche City located?
Campeche City is the capital of Campeche state, one of the three states that make up the Yucatan Peninsula.
It is located on the Gulf of Mexico, in southeastern Mexico, and the least-visited of the three Yucatan states.
📍 What is Campeche City Near?
Campeche state borders Yucatan state, so it’s not far from the top destinations in that state, Merida and Valladolid.
In fact, Campeche is one of the best day trips from Merida.
📆 What’s the best time to visit Campeche City?
Being in the Yucatan, it’s hot, rainy and humid in Campeche from about April to October.
As with the entire Yucatan Peninsula, the best time to visit is from November to March when the temperatures cool down and it’s pleasant to walk outside.
🤔 Is Campeche City worth visiting?
For those traveling to Merida, don’t pass up the opportunity for a Merida to Campeche day trip or overnight trip.
As it’s quite small, Campeche City makes a great place to spend 1-2 days before continuing to explore other parts of the state.
The top places to visit in Campeche, aside from Campeche City, include Calakmul Mayan Ruins, Isla Aguada pueblo magico and Ciudad del Carmen, some of the best beaches in Campeche Mexico.
Mexico Hidden Gems: CAMPECHE
Best Things to do in Campeche
🏴☠️ Visit the Campeche Forts
Centuries ago, Campeche was vulnerable to pirate attacks due to its location on the Gulf of Mexico.
Now that pirates don’t pose a threat, you can take a leisurely walk along the rampart walls atop the Fuerte de San Miguel (Saint Michael’s Fort), and visit the bright yellow Fuerte de San Jose el Alto (Saint Jose’s Fort).
🚍 Campeche Tram Tour
You’ll find the bright red and green trams parked at Independence Square, AKA the Zocalo, or main square, in Downtown Campeche City.
There are two routes for tram tours in Campeche offered, including Tranvia de la Ciudad (City Tram Tour).
The other is El Guapismo (The Handsome Tour), a longer tour which goes along the Gulf of Mexico and passes by the Fuerte de San Jose el Alto.
🌅 Sunset at the Campeche Malecon
The Campeche Malecon (boardwalk) is located all along the Gulf of Mexico, and makes for the perfect place for a sunset stroll.
There are a few parks, sculptures and monuments along the Malecon that are of interest, namely the Campeche Letters sign, Angel Maya (Mayan Angel) and Novia del Mar (Ocean’s Girlfriend) sculptures.
How Do I Travel to Campeche?
🚗💨 DRIVING TO Campeche City
The Merida to Campeche drive is only about 90-minutes, and from Valladolid, slightly longer.
From other parts of the Yucatan, like Tulum and Playa del Carmen, it’s a bit further, but still a totally safe drive in your rental car.
🚌 BUS TO Campeche City
The same with driving, it is an easy bus trip from Merida to Campeche, and also from Valladolid.
For this trip, check the schedule with ADO, Mexico’s largest bus company, which offers several trips each day from Merida and Valladolid.
✈️ FLYING TO Campeche City
There is a small airport, Campeche International Airport (CPE), that you can fly into through a connecting flight from Mexico City International Airport.
8. Tepoztlan
In search of the best Mexico City off the beaten path destination? Look no further than the “magic town” pueblo magico Tepoztlan.
This haven for spiritual seekers and healers, wellness enthusiasts, yogis, artists and the like, is also one of the best day trips from Mexico City.
🗺 Where is Tepoztlan located?
Tepoztlan (pronounced tep-poze-lan), is located just in Central Mexico, just one hour south of Mexico City in Morelos state.
This is one of the smallest states in Mexico, and Tepoztlan is a top destination in Morelos.
📍 What is Tepoztlan Near?
Besides its proximity to Mexico City, many also like to check out another beautiful place in Morelos state, Cuernavaca, a historic colonial town.
Besides these cities, the Taxco pueblo magico, a gorgeous old silver mining town, is about two hours south.
📆 What’s the best time to visit Tepoztlan?
Tepoztlan, located in Central Mexico, has the “Eternal Spring” climate, so it’s more or less a year-round destination with moderate temperatures.
The dry season runs October-May, and the summer months can be quite rainy.
🤔 Is Tepoztlan worth visiting?
Tepoztlan is one of those places some people visit once, and end up moving to.
It has its own vibe and attracts spiritual types and artists in droves, but for those not looking to relocate, it does make for a great wellness weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City.
Best Things to Do in Tepoztlan
🗿 Climb the tepozteco pyramid
For many, no visit to Tepoztlan is complete without climbing to the Tepozteco pyramid. It is quite an intense climb to the top, but the views are spectacular.
This pyramid is dedicated to Tepoztēcatl, the ancient Aztec god of pulque (pronounced pull-kay), Mexico’s original adult beverage!
🔮 Temazcal Purification ceremony
As one of the top places for spirituality and wellness in Central Mexico, many take advantage of the ancient healing practices still offered in Tepoztlan today.
One of the most popular is this temazcal ceremony.
A temazcal (pronounced tem-maz-scal), is similar to a Native American sweat lodge, and has been used for centuries in Mexico for purification of the body and mind.
🌶 Visit the Tepoztlan Market
Head to the main mercado in town, City Market of Tepoztlan, to sample some pulque.
This is a centuries-old prehispanic beverage made from the fermented agave plant — the same plant used to make tequila and mezcal.
Though an acquired taste, pulque (pronounced pull-kay), is lovingly refered to as “the drink of the gods.”
It is just one of the interesting things to try at this lively mercado in Tepoztlan.
Also be on the lookout for vendors selling prehispanic foods, like alache, a dark green veggie, and itacates, fried corn cakes.
If you eat meat, try the cecina, a cured, dried steak meat famous in Morelos state. For a sweet treat, don’t miss the tepoznieves.
This is a shaved ice or sorbet made with fresh fruit, chocolates and many other flavors. It is very refreshing on a hot day in Tepoztlán, Mexico.
Mexico Hidden Gems: Tepoztlan
How Do I Travel to Tepoztlan?
The closest airport to Tepoztlan is Mexico City International (code: MEX).
As driving in Mexico City isn’t for the faint of heart, you might want to just opt for a tour to Tepoztlan, or take the bus.
There are several bus companies in Mexico, like ADO and Primera Plus, with multiple Mexico City to Tepoztlan trips each day.
9. Cholula
The state of Puebla, where Cholula is located, seems like its own country altogether.
Poblanos, as the locals are known, have their own foods, slang and customs from the rest of Mexico.
Cholula is one of the most colorful towns in the state of Pubela, and all of Mexico.
🌶 Fun Fact: Cholula brand hot sauce is named in homage to this 2,500-year-old Colonial town.
🗺 Where is Cholula located?
Cholula, Mexico, is in Puebla state, located one state to the southeast of Mexico City, in Central Mexico. On its south side, Puebla borders the state of Oaxaca.
📍 What is Cholula Near?
The pueblo magico (magic town) of Cholula is about an hour from Puebla City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the capital of Puebla state.
Atlixco, another pueblo magico is also not far, as well as Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park, home to the Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl Mexico volcanoes.
📆 What’s the best time to visit Cholula?
Blessed with the “Eternal Spring” climate of Central Mexico, Cholula weather is nice for most of the year. The rainy season lasts from June to October.
🇲🇽 Cinco de Mayo in Puebla
Though popular in the U.S., Cinco de Mayo isn’t really celebrated in Mexico besides in Puebla City, where the country’s biggest celebration takes place on May 5th each year.
For this reason, many visit Puebla and nearby Cholula in early-May for the festivals and battle reenactments.
Note: Cinco de Mayo, though one of the most important holidays in Mexico, is not Mexican Independence Day. That takes place on September 16th.
🤔 Is Cholula worth visiting?
Cholula is a small town and makes for a nice day trip from Puebla, or even overnight trip from Mexico City.
For those visiting Puebla City and state, do not pass up the opportunity to visit the colorful, historic city of Cholula.
Best Things to Do in Cholula
🚶♀️ Stroll Historic Downtown Cholula
Spend the day exploring historic downtown San Andrés Cholula, to see all the colorful buildings, streets and churches.
Ancient legends use to say Cholula had 365 churches, one for each day of the year.
Though that has been debunked, it does feels like there are 365 because they are all very grand and elaborate.
💒 Our Lady of Remedies Church (Cholula Church)
Of all the churches, none is more iconic and recognizable than Cholula’s giant yellow and white Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, which towers over the city.
While this grand 16th Century Catholic church is a masterpiece, its coolest feature is located beneath it.
▲ Great Pyramid of Cholula
Located under the church — yes, under it — is the Great Pyramid of Cholula.
This is the largest pyramid, by volume, found on Earth; bigger than any pyramid in Egypt or elsewhere.
After seeing the church, pay a visit to this large, well-reserved archaeological site used by the Aztecs to worship their central deity, Quetzalcoatl (pronounced ketz-al-koh-at-lal).
How do I Travel to Cholula?
🚗💨 DRIVING TO Cholula
From Puebla City, this is an easy and short 30-minute drive in your rental car.
It’s also doable from any of the neighboring states and Mexico City, as long as you’re only planning to drive during the day.
🚌 BUS TO Cholula
With service to all parts of Mexico, ADO is always an option for a trip to Cholula.
The smaller company, Primera Plus, also services much of Central Mexico, but regardless of your choice, make sure to upgrade to first class if you have a longer ride.
✈️ FLYING TO Cholula
Puebla, the fifth largest city in Mexico, has its own airport, Puebla International Airport (PBC).
From there, you can rent a car, take an Uber, taxi, or shared transportation for the 30-45 minute trip to Cholula.
10. Sayulita
It’s almost as if good vibes were invented in this chill bohemian haven of Sayulita, Mexico, one of the safest places to travel in Mexico.
This laid back Mexico beach town is also one of the best places to surf in Mexico.
Besides surfing, just what made this otherwise tiny beachfront pueblo so famous and Instagram worthy?
The colorful Sayulita flags, called papel picado, are traditional Mexican folk art paper flags.
While you’ll find them in other places in Mexico during holidays and celebrations, Sayulita has them up all year.
🗺 Where is Sayulita located?
Sayulita is in Nayarit state, in southern-central Mexico.
It is located on some of the best beaches in all Mexico, known as the Riviera Nayarit, on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.
📍 What is Sayulita Near?
Sayulita is only about an hour from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, one of the top Mexico travel destinations.
Many also spend some time visiting the next town over, San Pancho, a laid-back haven for surfers, yogis and digital nomads, and among the best non touristy places in Mexico.
📆 What’s the best time to visit Sayulita?
As with nearly all beach towns in Mexico, the ideal time to visit Sayulita is from November to April.
During the summer months, you can expect heavy rains, hot and humid days, and even the possibility of a hurricane.
🤔 Is Sayulita worth visiting?
It is definitely worth visiting if you want to experience small town Mexico, mixed with a beach.
In fact, some go for a Sayulita day trip from Puerto Vallarta, and end up wishing they had opted for Sayulita instead because it is much calmer and more peaceful, with equally-beautiful beaches.
Best Things to Do in Sayulita
🏄♀️ SURF LESSONS IN SAYULITA
Always wanted to try surfing? Now’s your chance because going surfing in Sayulita with a private instructor is one of the best things to do.
There is a great wave that breaks just offshore, which is perfect for beginners, and plenty of surf schools on Playa Sayulita, the main beach near downtown.
If surfing’s not for you, there are plenty of other things to do in Sauylita Mexico that involve just being on some of the best beaches in Riviera Nayarit.
🏝 PLAYA DE LOS MUERTOS
Playa de los Muertos (Beach of the Dead) is something you don’t see everyday.
Sayulita is a beach town, and part of a larger beach community, and they have to work with what they’ve got, so one of their cemeteries is located just behind this beach.
It’s arguably one of the best beaches in Sayulita, too.
ISLAS MARIETAS TOUR: Mexico hidden beach
The Marietas Islands is truly a Mexico bucket list experience, and the home to the famous hidden beach in Mexico, Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach).
There are two Islas Marietas tours offered: One lets you swim and snorkel near the islands, and the other one lets you actually go onto the secret beach.
Mexico, in an effort to keep this place pristine, only allows about 125 visitors per day — so tours sell out fast and in advance.
If visiting one of the most secluded beaches in Mexico is on your travel agenda, secure your spot on this Hidden Beach and Snorkeling Tour before you even arrive to Sayulita, to ensure you get one of those few coveted spots.
How Do I Travel to Sayulita?
✈️ FLYING TO SAYULITA
Getting to Sayulita is easy, as you’ll fly into Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), which has direct flights from many major U.S. cities.
From there, you’ll drive your rental car, or take an Uber, private transport service, or public bus, for the one-hour trip to Sayulita.
🚗💨 DRIVING TO SAYULITA
Driving only makes sense from Puerto Vallarta or Guadalajara. In fact, if you’re just staying in Sayulita, you might want to skip driving at all.
However, if you’re you’re also visiting the great areas near Sayulita — Puerto Vallarta, San Francisco (AKA San Pancho), Guadalajara, Tequila and San Sebastian del Oeste — a rental car is a great option.
🚌 BUS TO SAYULITA
You can take a bus to Sayulita from all places mentioned above.
For longer trips, opt for a luxury class ticket on ADO or Primera Plus, as the price difference isn’t much, but the quality is significantly better.
Mexico Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mexico safe for travel?
Short answer: Yes! Aside from hurricanes and petty crime, all of the best Mexican beach towns listed here are safe, both for Mexico solo travel and travel with a group.
🎧 Love podcasts? Check out this Mexico podcast which does a deep dive into the topic of safe Mexico travel.
As no place on Earth is 100% safe, including Mexico, you’ll want to follow the same general travel safety tips would follow when traveling anywhere on Earth.
You should also register for the U.S. STEP Program and put your mind at ease by purchasing Mexico travel insurance.
Is it safe to drive in Mexico?
Short answer: Yes! In fact, the easiest, fastest and most convenient way to travel to most Mexico hidden gems is via rental car.
As a general rule, driving in Mexico is considered safe. However, there’s the obvious caveat to that:
Since you will be driving in another country, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with Mexico driving laws, or ask the agent at your car rental for advice.
For your convenience, there are 12 useful Mexico driving tips below to help you with how to drive in Mexico.
For a Mexico car rental provider, I always recommend and use Discover Cars — which is rated 4.6 out of 5 Stars on Trustpilot, with 205,000+ reviews.
This great company compares prices at numerous Mexico car rental agencies all over the country to get you the best price.
Do I need a visa for Mexico?
Likely not — U.S., Canadian, Japanese and the majority of European passport holders don’t need a visa to travel to Mexico.
This is just one reason Mexico is one of the best travel destinations for Americans and most other travelers.
When you arrive in Mexico and go through Customs and Immigration, you’ll receive UP TO a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist visa.
This can be a stamp or is a small piece of paper that you need to hold on to so you can give it back to an Immigration officer when you leave the country — so don’t lose your FMM if you get the paper one.
🚨 Update on FMM visas
In 2022, some airports have switched to a passport stamp, rather than the FMM paper visa. This makes it a lot easier to not lose your FMM.
What’s the best time to visit Mexico?
For much of the country, the best time to visit is the Mexico dry season, November to March. During these cooler, winter months, temperatures are warm but pleasant.
However, make sure to double check the weather reports because places like in Central Mexico, like Mexico City and Guadalajara, do get cold.
If you’re visiting any of the Mexico beach towns, November to March is the perfect time because these months are warm, but not humid, and the mosquitoes are at bay.
It will also be after Hurricane Season ends, and you’ll likely have no rain at all.
What do I pack for Mexico?
Wondering exactly what to pack for Mexico? Head to this article for a complete guide on packing for your Mexico trip, Ultimate Packing List for Mexico.
🧳 FREE PRINTABLE PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO
Download your FREE printable checklist ↑ so you don’t forget anything when you’re packing for Mexico.
This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers both Mexico beach packing, and packing for Mexico City and all cities.
It tells you everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico.
My Final Thoughts on the Best Mexico Hidden Gems
These 10 places featured here are all top Mexico destinations — for those who want to venture off the beaten path.
They are all safe, beautiful, unique, and worth checking out.
While the phrase “off the beaten path” is subjective, I hope you discovered some places in Mexico you’ve never heard of after reading this article.
The 10 towns featured in this article might not have the name recognition of places like Cancun and Cabo, but they are some of the most beautiful places in Mexico, just not the usual ones you already know about.
In an effort to keep this article to a reasonable size, the list was capped to the Top 10 Mexico hidden gems.
However, be sure to discover even more of Mexico in these related Mexico travel blogs.