Discover Mexico's Authentic rich cultural heritage through this comprehensive 2-week guide covering everything from ancient pyramids to modern art, traditional cuisine, and pristine beaches.
Are you ready to try on the authentic Mexican cultural experiences this Winter? Forget about the regular cliches!!! Mexico isn't just about pristine beaches and all-inclusive resorts and Mariachis singing and playing guitar! It's an amazing large country full of authentic cultural experiences and varied breathtaking lanscapes!
It's also a vibrant tapestry of ancient civilisations, revolutionary art, mouth-watering UNESCO-listed cuisine, and warm-hearted people who turn strangers into family.
This winter, escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in a journey that promises to reshape your worldview through Mexico's rich cultural landscape.
Recently, we helped Synza K., a young French doctor living in Germany, plan her 10-day holiday spanning both eastern and western Mexico.
Her 2- week journey took her from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca City , Cancun, and Playa del Carmen—perfectly timed around Día de los Muertos Parade and Celebrations (Day of the Dead). This cultural and spiritual celebration, akin to Halloween, added a magical layer to her trip.
Please Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click through the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission. We earn from qualifying purchases as an affiliate of Stay22, TravelPayout, and a few other travel brands. Thank you for supporting Melanin Travels Magic Blog. [Learn More]
Table of Contents:
- Things to Know Before Traveling to Mexico [Skip to Details]
- Getting to Mexico City [Skip to Details]
- Mexico City: here to Stay and Must-Visit Attractions [Skip to Details]
- Attending Día de los Muertos Parade [Skip to Details]
- Visiting Teotihuacan Temple [Skip to Details]
- Surfing and Baby Turtle Conservation in Puerto Escondido [Skip to Details]
- Savoring Tacos and Grasshopper Guacamole in Mexico City [Skip to Details]
- Visiting Oaxaca: Hierve el Agua and More [Skip to Details]
- Transportation: Buses vs Domestic Flights [Skip to Details]
- Cancun to Playa del Carmen: Yacatán & Quintana Roo Highlights [Skip to Details]
- FAQs [Skip to Details]
- Conclusion [Skip to Details]
Things to Know Before Traveling to Mexico
Language:
While English is common in tourist areas, learning basic Spanish phrases is respectful and enriching.
Currency:
The Mexican Peso (MXN) is widely used, with credit cards accepted in most establishments.
Weather:
Winter (November–February) offers pleasant temperatures and minimal rain.
Safety:
Stick to well-traveled tourist areas and exercise normal precautions.
Health:
Drink bottled water and ensure street food is freshly prepared.
Tipping:
10–15% is standard in restaurants.
Getting to Mexico City - An Authentic Mexican Experience
Fly into Mexico City's Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX), as it serves as the main gateway to the country. Major airlines like American Airlines, United, and Aeromexico offer direct flights from various international destinations.
Upon arrival, opt for authorized airport taxis or ride-sharing services for safe transportation to your accommodation.
Mexico City: Where to Stay and Must-Visit Attractions
Mexico City most Recommended Areas to Stay:
We would suggest you stay in those safe and lively neighbourhood, while visiting Mexico City.
Roma Norte: Art galleries and chic cafes.
Condesa: Green streets with art deco architecture.
Polanco: Luxury hotels and upscale shopping.
Cultural Highlights You can't Miss:
Luis Barragán House: A UNESCO site showcasing modernist architecture.
This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases the genius of Mexico's only Pritzker Prize-winning architect. The vibrant colors and masterful use of light create an atmosphere that's both serene and inspiring. Advance reservations required. You can't miss out on visiting Luis Barragán House if you are an art & architecture lover.
Xochimilco Canals: Traditional trajineras, mariachi music, and food vendors.
Navigate the ancient waterways of Xochimilco Canals in traditional trajineras (gondola-like boats), accompanied by floating mariachi bands and food vendors. Xochimilco Canals are best visited on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Further Exploration - Things to add to your Bucket list in Mexico City and surroundings
Of course you can also do a walking city in the city centre but you don't want to miss on other historical & cultural gems Mexico City has to offer.
◦ Palacio Nacional - Mural of ‘The History of Mexico’ - Free, public govt. building ,
◦ Mercado Jamaica - Flower Market
◦ Monumento a la Revolucion
◦ Museo Nacional de Antropologia - Largest collection of ancient mexican artifacts
◦ Bibloteca Vasconcelos - Library - Architectural marvel - Floating glass bookshelves
◦ La Ciudadela Mercado de Artesianos- Crafts Market - go here to look for souvenirs and crafts all handmade and very reasonable. Make sure you haggle a bit
Attending Día de los Muertos Parade
Experience Mexico City transformed by this UNESCO-celebrated event. Join locals in face painting, enjoy traditional altars, and visit Mixquic Cemetery for authentic traditions.
Pro Traveller Tips for the Parade:
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot
- Join in by getting your face painted as a catrina
- Visit San Andrés Mixquic cemetery for traditional celebrations
- You can also join some official Mexico City Dia de la muerte tours , if you travel solo.
Visiting Teotihuacan Temple : Walking the Avenue of the Dead
The Legendary Teotihuacan Temple is more than just an old stone pyramids , but a real historical and archeological site made of several key buildings.
Explore the Pyramid of the Sun, Pyramid of the Moon, and the intricately carved Temple of Quetzalcoatl. Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler weather.
Standing before the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacan, you'll feel dwarfed by both its physical magnitude and historical significance. This pre-Hispanic city, located 30 miles northeast of Mexico City, was once Mesoamerica's greatest metropolis.
Planning Your Visit
Best Time:
Arrive at opening (9 AM) to avoid crowds and midday heat
Duration:
Plan for 4-6 hours to explore thoroughly
Getting There:
Book a guided tour from Mexico City (~$45)
Take public transport from Terminal Autobuses del Norte (~$3)
Must-See Structures
Pyramid of the Sun
Mesoamerica's third-largest pyramid
248 steps to the top
Best tackled early morning
Pyramid of the Moon
Perfect for sunset views
Offers the best photo opportunities of the Avenue of the Dead
Temple of Quetzalcoatl
Intricate carved serpent heads
Located in the Citadel complex
Most detailed architectural features
Pro Traveller Tips:
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Hire a local guide for fascinating historical context
Visit the excellent on-site museum
Fancy saving money on roaming fees for your next solo trip, why not use an e-SIM from Ajo? You can also use our Promodcode MELANIN24 and save 5% on your next E-SIM Purchase. Keeping in touch with family and friends on the move has never been so easy and affordable.
Surfing and Baby Turtle Conservation in Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido offers more than just Mexico's legendary surf scene – it's a haven for wildlife conservation and eco-tourism.
Surfing Hotspots:
We would recommend those trialed and testes best Surfing hot spots in Puerto Escondido:
Zicatela Beach: Professional-level waves
Carrizalillo Beach: Perfect for beginners
La Punta: Intermediate surfers' haven
Recommended Surf Schools
- Oasis Surf School ($40/lesson)
- Puerto Surf School ($35/lesson)
Turtle Conservation:
Join Puerto Escondido 's nesting season activities and release baby turtles into the sea.
Things to know before you go to Puerto Escondido to assist The Turtle conservation efforts
Nesting Season: July to January
Release Programs: Daily at sunset
Conservation Centers:
Vive Mar Sea Turtle Center
Palmarito Sea Turtle Camp
How to Participate
1. Join evening patrol walks
2. Help collect and relocate eggs
3. Participate in baby turtle releases
4. Support local conservation efforts
Savouring Tacos and Grasshopper Guacamole in Mexico City
Best recommended Taco Spots:
A) El Huequito ( Oaxaca Centro Histórico)
You can miss the authentic El Huequito, located in Oaxaca Centro Histórico.
- Specialty: Tacos al pastor
- Operating since 1959
- Don't miss their handmade salsas
B) Los Cocuyos (Oaxaca Centro Histórico)
You can miss the legendary Los Cocuyos, located in Oaxaca Centro Histórico.
- Open 24/7
- Famous for campechanos
- Try the suadero tacos
C) Taquería Orinoco (Oaxaca Roma Norte)
Another Not to be miss Tacos Hotspot located in Oaxaca Roma Norte Neighbourhood
- Northern-style tacos
- House specialty: Chicharrón de queso
2. If your love Adventurous Eats:
Then those Grasshopper guacamole at local restaurants will delight you!
Chapulines (Grasshoppers)
- Traditional Oaxacan ingredient
- Rich in protein
- Where to try: Mercado de San Juan
Innovative Guacamole Variations
- Grasshopper guacamole at Quintonil
- Ant larvae guacamole at Pujol
- Traditional versions at any market
Visiting Oaxaca: Hierve el Agua and More
Bucket list Activities in Oaxaca: Swim in mineral pools, hike scenic trails, and explore the vibrant Oaxaca markets, visit a Mezcal distillery
Nearby Highlights: Monte Albán ruins and Santo Domingo Church.
Hierve el Agua Petrified Waterfalls
Best Time to visit Hierve el Agua :
Early morning are the best thing for photographs and capture the essence of Hierve el Agua without any crowd disturbing you...
Activities in Hierve el Agua:
Swim in mineral pools of Hierve al Agua
Hike surrounding trails
Photography at sunrise
Getting There:
Organized tour (~$40)
Private driver (~$80)
Public transport + taxi (~$15)
Oaxaca City Highlights
Here are the top 3 attractions not to be missed when visiting Oaxaca City
Monte Albán Archaeological Site
Santo Domingo Church
20 de Noviembre Market
Transportation: Buses vs. Domestic Flights
Luxury Buses:
If you have a semi to long jouney Afrom 2 h to 6 hours , we would recommend using ADO, ETN, and Primera Plus Luxury buses as they offer comfortable and budget-friendly options.
Ado Bus for example is really well developped in the Yucatan and Quintanaroo region , the highly touristy regions where Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen are the main hubs. Ado Bus has the best value for price ratio when transfering from Cancun Iarport to your hotel or resort in Tulum or Playa del Carmen. Prices are unbeatable and laid clearly at the airport exit.
Why Choose ADO Buses Fleet
Extensive network
First-class service
Online booking available
WiFi and entertainment
Why Choose ETN Buses Fleet
Premium service
Wider seats
Complimentary snacks
Personal screens
Why Choose Primera Plus Buses Fleet
Reliable service
Competitive prices
Good for central Mexico
Domestic Flights:
The best airlines according to local Mexicans and expats living in different part of the country from Oaxaca to Merida and Playa del Carmen, heavily recommend using AeroMexico and Volaris which both provide quicker alternatives for long distances, safety and quality in-flight experiences.
1.AeroMexico
Full-service carrier
Frequent flyer program
Better baggage allowance
2.Volaris
Budget airline
Extra fees for baggage
Often cheaper for advance bookings
Price Comparison Example for the same itinerary Mexico City to Cancún
If you are still planning your itinerary and depending f you will be in slow travel mode or or let me see as much I can get in 1 week or 10 days, then it is worth keeping in mind distances in Mexico.
Bus: $45-80 (16-18 hours)
Flight: $60-150 (2.5 hours)
Fancy saving money on roaming fees for your next solo trip, why not use an e-SIM from Ajo? You can also use our Promodcode MELANIN24 and save 5% on your next E-SIM Purchase. Keeping in touch with family and friends on the move has never been so easy and affordable.
Cancun to Playa del Carmen: Yucatán & Quintana Roo Highlights
Chichén Itzá & Cenotes:
Best Time to visit Chichen Itza:
Pro travel tip: Early morning are best to visit Chichen Itza pyramid complex due to the extreme heat. I remeber it was 42 degree Celcius and I had to drink 3 bottles of water of 2L each spending the whole day there. Wear also sunscreen and a decent hat or cap to protect your head from sunstrokes.
Must-See when visiting Chichen Itza:
Pro travel tip: Expect to spend Half a day to a full day in Chichen Itza depending if you will probably stop at nearby cenotes on your way in to refresh yourself. The Chichen Itza is one of the World Wonders you don't want to miss out on, but also please note that this site does have maximum sun exposure and its recommended to have a full on lunch or breakfast before reaching it. You will also buy a lot of ice cold water once on site so prepare some spare cash on hand.
El Castillo pyramid
Great Ball Court
Temple of Warriors
Chichen Itza Nearby Cenotes:
On your way to Chichen Itza: Most daytrip excursions will stop over at one of these three cenotes on teh way in or the way back to your hotel or resort in Tulum, Cancun or Playa del Carmen.
- Ik Kil
- X'Canche
- Suytun
Must-see ancient wonders and turquoise swimming holes.
Tulum Ruins:
You can expect a mix of history and beach relaxation while visiting Tulum Ruins, a must for a balance day trip. Your Tulum excursion will generally be split in 2 on the same day, here are some highlights below:
Tulum Ruins
To enjoy the best the experience we would recommend leaving early your hotel or resort from Playa Del Carmen, Cancun or Tulum with your chosen tour company.
- Best visited at opening (8 AM)
- Bring swimwear for beach access
- Hire a guide for historical context
Tulum Beaches
Tulum has some of the most stunning beaches in Mexico, the one on your bucket list should be:
- Playa Paraíso
- Playa Ruinas
- Secret Beach
Holbox Island:
Why visit the tiny sandy beach of Holbox?
You don't want to miss out on the Bioluminescent beaches and kayaking through mangroves. It's ideal for an honeymoon or if you need to re-center your soul on a village like island, where you can either walk or use the golf cart like vehicules and feel like on a mini adventure when doing watersport activities.
Holbox is a great day trip located nearer Cancun, where you will be driven by Van or bus depending on your group size from Playa del Carmen or Tulum and then take a Boat to reach this mini island, which is famous because everything has been built on sand literally!
If you are lucky on your way in or out you will be escorted by the cheeky dolphins who are always happy to see tourists
Getting There:
Ferry from Chiquila
Activities:
Whale shark swimming (June-September)
Bioluminescent beach walks
Kayaking through mangroves
Further Exploration - Things to add to your Bucket list
If you are staying more than 2 weeks, our founder went for 3 weeks in the Quitanaroo & Yucatan region and has the chance to Tick off her bucket list with the following natural attraction and locations:
Coba Pyramid & Archaeological Site:
Coba pyramid is like a half a day excursions , where you will be in the middle of a forest and have the opportunity to rent an old bike, to cycle around the forest and find in the middle ruins of an old and very steep pyramid that you can climb.
Things to do and see In Coba
Climb Nohoch Mul pyramid
Rent bikes to explore
Visit before Tulum for fewer crowds
Isla Mujeres
Activities:
Isla Mujeres is also well know for its clay like sandy beaches. I remember stoppingon a sandbank and we spend 1h exfoliating our whole body with the sand, revealing glowing skin once you then swim back in the water.
You also have a variety of activities to tap into such as snorkeling , swimming with the dolphins or wild wales, catamaran cruises.
MUSA underwater museum
Playa Norte : Getting a natural body scrub on the beach thanks to the sand
Turtle sanctuary
Golf cart island tour
Bacalar and "7 colores" Seven Colours Lagoon
Activities:
If you have an extra day you can't miss out on visiting Bacalar and the Seven Colours Lagoon with 7 shades of blue, not only your eyesight won't believe the beauty of the site, you will get a chance to eat a delicious meal in front one of the best view in the country too.
Stand-up paddleboarding
Visit stromatolites
Best Photo Spots:
Fort San Felipe
Canal de los Piratas
Cenote Azul
Laguna Rosada Del Yucatan or las Coloradas
If you have one day to spare and are into photography then you can't miss las Coloradas , those massive pink lake worth a drone photoshoot honestly!
Flamingo watching
Photography tours
Combined with Rio Lagartos tour
Isla Contoy
Isla Contoy is more of a mangrove you can kayak in, but to be honest it’s full of mosquito who are hungry. I would say avoid.
Limited daily visitors
Bird sanctuary
Snorkeling spots
Book through licensed operators
FAQs - Your burning Questions Answered
Q: When is the best time to visit Mexico?
A: November–February offers ideal weather with minimal rainfall.
Q: Is Mexico City safe for tourists?
A: Yes, exercise normal precautions in tourist areas.
Q: What’s the best way to travel between cities?
A: Domestic flights save time, while buses are more economical.
Essential Preparations
Passport validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates
Visa requirements: Most tourists can enter visa-free for up to 180 days
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN)
Language: Spanish (basic phrases helpful)
Voltage: 127V, Type A and B electrical outlets
Best time to visit: November to April (dry season)
Health & Safety
Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, routine vaccinations
Travel insurance strongly recommended
Drink bottled water
Use sunscreen and stay hydrated
Be aware of altitude in Mexico City (7,350 feet)
Final Mexico Travel Tips
Learn basic Spanish phrases
Respect local customs
Stay hydrated
Be open to spontaneous experiences
Carry cash and credit cards
Purchase travel insurance
Wrapping it up
Mexico offers more than a vacation—it’s an unforgettable experience that will transform your worldview. From historic ruins to tantalizing cuisine, each moment immerses you deeper into a vibrant culture. This winter, take the leap and let Mexico reshape your world.
Are you inspired? Why not also read our other Explore the world solo and Travel Planning articles to plan your next trip well-prepared? We got you!
Free City Tours That Will Electrify Your Next Airport Layover
Escape the 9-5: Maximising Your Annual Leave Travel Strategy in 2025
Top 6 Tips for Solo Traveling as a Woman - Stay Safe & Happy!
Top 5 Fun Things to Do in Okinawa: Uncover Japan's Hidden Gem
Top ten sites to find cheap flights in 2023
Let Melanin Travels Magic take care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying every moment.
Reach out today to start your adventure! If you don't know where to start you can always reach out for a Jamaica travel packages.
Or let us help you with our Private Trip Planning service
Let's Plan your private trip to Mexico
Want a customised trip to Mexico with our expert recommendations? You will get one-on-one help, tour guides, a full itinerary plan, hotel and flight bookings, a personal driver and more. Fill out the form and share some details on your tentative dates, number of travellers and more and We will reach out to you within 48 hours.
Comments