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Mexico is a country that offers an endless array of experiences, from bustling cities to tranquil beaches, and everything in between. Mexico had been on my bucketlist for quite some time and my 1 month Mexico itinerary took me to some of the most captivating spots, each with its own unique charm.
Here’s a detailed one-month travel guide that will guide you through Mexico’s vibrant cities, stunning beaches, and fascinating historical sites!
Check the map below for the all the locations mentioned in this blog!
Day 1-4: Mexico City – The Heartbeat of Mexico
Touch down in Mexico City, a sprawling metropolis that blends ancient history with modern culture. I recommend spending at least three days here to truly soak in what the city has to offer.
Things to Do
Zócalo & Historic Centre
Start with the Zócalo, the city’s main square, surrounded by impressive colonial buildings. Don’t miss the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Templo Mayor ruins, a reminder of the city’s Aztec roots.
Chapultepec Park & Castle
Spend a day wandering through Chapultepec Park, one of the largest city parks in the world. The Castle perched on the hill offers panoramic views of the city and a fascinating history museum.
Museums
Mexico City is a museum lover’s paradise. The National Museum of Anthropology is a must-visit, housing an extensive collection of pre-Columbian artefacts. For a taste of Mexico’s artistic side, visit the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacán.
Lucha Libre
For a thrilling night out, catch a traditional Mexican wrestling match at Arena Mexico, where masked wrestlers perform acrobatic feats in a lively, carnival-like atmosphere.
Day 5-8: Oaxaca – A Cultural Feast
Mexico City to Oaxaca: 7 hours by bus or 1 hour by flight.
Oaxaca is a city that immediately captures your heart with its colourful streets, rich traditions, and vibrant food scene. I’d recommend spending three to four days here.
Things to Do
Monte Albán
An ancient Zapotec city located on a mountaintop, offering stunning views and insight into pre-Hispanic civilisation. Be prepared with water as it’s a steep climb.
Explore the Markets
Oaxaca is known for its markets, especially the Benito Juárez Market, where you can sample local delicacies like chapulines (grasshoppers!) and mezcal.
Day Trip to Hierve el Agua
These petrified waterfalls, about 1.5 hours from Oaxaca, are a natural wonder. You can swim in the mineral-rich pools while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Where to Stay
I stayed at Hotel Casa Antigua, a charming hotel with a central location. Prices start at around £40 per night.
Want more Oaxaca recommendations? Check out my ultimate Oaxaca travel guide!
Day 9-14: Puerto Escondido – The Unexpected Stay
Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido: 10 hours by bus or 1 hour by flight.
Initially, I planned to stay in Puerto Escondido for just two nights, but the laid-back vibe and stunning beaches convinced me to extend my stay to five days.
Things to Do
Surfing at Zicatela Beach
Known as the Mexican Pipeline, this beach is a surfer’s paradise. Even if you’re not into surfing, the beach is great for watching the pros.
La Punta
This area has a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere. It’s perfect for unwinding with a good book or enjoying the sunset with a cold drink.
Release Baby Turtles
A truly magical experience is participating in a turtle release at sunset. Several local organisations offer this, and it’s something you won’t forget.
Day 15-17: San Cristóbal de las Casas – Colonial Charm
Puerto Escondido to San Cristóbal: 13 hours by bus (overnight buses are a good option).
San Cristóbal is a colonial gem nestled in the Chiapas highlands. The cool climate and cobblestone streets make it a perfect place to wander and discover.
Things to Do
Sumidero Canyon
Just outside the city, this stunning canyon offers boat tours where you can spot crocodiles and marvel at the towering cliffs.
Na Bolom Museum
This museum is dedicated to the preservation of indigenous cultures in Chiapas. It’s a fascinating look at the region’s history and people.
Explore the Markets
The Mercado de Dulces y Artesanías is a great spot to pick up locally made textiles, ceramics, and other crafts.
Church of San Juan Bautista
This unique church in Chiapas is a mesmerising experience, where you can witness a unique blend of indigenous Mayan traditions and Catholic rituals that make this place truly one-of-a-kind. No photos are allowed so I went here with zero expectations and was… surprised is maybe the best word I can find!
Where to Stay
I stayed at Casa Lum, a boutique hotel with modern amenities and a rooftop terrace, starting at around £50 per night.
Day 18-19: Palenque – Ancient Mysteries in the Jungle
San Cristóbal to Palenque: 9 hours by bus.
Palenque is one of Mexico’s most impressive archaeological sites, surrounded by lush jungle. Two days here are sufficient to explore the ruins and the natural beauty of the area.
Things to Do
Palenque Ruins
These Mayan ruins are less crowded than Chichen Itza but equally impressive, like a scene from Indiana Jones. Don’t miss the Temple of the Inscriptions and the Palace.
Agua Azul
A day trip to these turquoise waterfalls is well worth it. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Palenque but most tours from San Cristobal stop here on the way to Palenque anyway. It offers a refreshing swim amidst stunning natural scenery and waterfalls.
Day 20-23: Mérida – The White City
Palenque to Mérida: 8 hours by bus or 1.5 hours by flight.
Mérida, known as the White City, is the cultural capital of the Yucatán Peninsula. With its grand colonial architecture and lively cultural scene, plus it’s one of the safest cities in all of North America—great for solo travel.
Things to Do
Paseo de Montejo
Stroll down this wide boulevard lined with mansions and museums. The Mayan World Museum is a highlight, offering a comprehensive overview of Mayan history and culture.
Cenotes
The Yucatán is famous for its cenotes (natural sinkholes). Two popular options near Mérida are Cenote Xlacah and Cenote Ik Kil. They offer a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters.
Uxmal
This lesser-known Mayan site is about an hour’s drive from Mérida. The ruins are well-preserved and less crowded than other sites in the region.
Where to Stay
I opted for Casa Garza, a charming colonial-style hotel with a tranquil garden courtyard, starting at £35 per night.
Day 24-25: Valladolid – A Colonial Gem
Mérida to Valladolid: 2 hours by bus.
Valladolid is a small but beautiful colonial town that makes for a perfect stopover on the way to the Caribbean coast. I spent two days here, which was just enough to explore the town and nearby attractions.
Things to Do
Cenote Zací
Located right in the town centre, this cenote is perfect for a quick swim.
Ek’ Balam
A lesser-known Mayan ruin located just outside Valladolid. You can still climb the main pyramid, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding jungle.
Explore the Town
The town square and San Servacio Church are beautiful, and the local market is a great place to try traditional Yucatecan dishes.
Day 26-27: Bacalar – The Lagoon of Seven Colours
Valladolid to Bacalar: 3.5 hours by bus.
Bacalar is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil escape with its stunning lagoon, often referred to as the “Lagoon of Seven Colours” due to its varying shades of blue.
Things to Do
Lagoon Tour
Take a boat tour of the lagoon to visit the cenotes and the “Pirate’s Channel” with lots of swim stops. The water is so clear and blue that it feels like you’re in a dream.
Los Rapidos
This natural “lazy river” is a short drive from Bacalar and offers a unique swimming experience. You can drift along with the current in crystal-clear waters.
Fort San Felipe
Visit this 18th-century fort overlooking the lagoon. It offers a glimpse into Bacalar’s history and stunning views of the water.
Where to Stay
I stayed at Hotel Aires Bacalar, a modern hotel with rooms starting at £50 per night, offering stunning views of the lagoon.
Day 28-29: Tulum – Disappointment in Paradise
Bacalar to Tulum: 2 hours by bus.
Tulum was one of the destinations I was most excited about, with visions of pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Unfortunately, the reality was a bit different.
My Experience
- High Prices: Tulum has become incredibly trendy, which has driven up prices across the board. Accommodation, food, and activities were significantly more expensive.
- Seaweed Problem: The beaches, which I had imagined to be white sand with clear blue water, were instead plagued with seaweed, which happens the majority of the year.
- Tulum Town vs Tulum Beach: I also wasn’t aware that the the town and the beach are quite separate from each other. I found the town a bit too commercialized and the beach area was confusing—you can’t really see what the beach clubs are like until you’re inside (after paying of course.
Read my full review of Tulum here.
What to Do
Tulum Ruins
Despite my disappointment with the beaches, the Tulum Ruins are worth a visit. The ruins are perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, offering a stunning backdrop.
Cenotes
Tulum is surrounded by cenotes, so take the opportunity to visit Gran Cenote or Cenote Dos Ojos for a refreshing swim. Or for a little off the beaten path (about 15 minutes by bike) is the Cenote Calavera, my favourite in the area and pictured below. Get there early and you can the whole place to yourself for 15-30 minutes!
Where to Stay
If you do decide to stay in Tulum, I’d recommend looking for accommodation in the town as it’s cheaper, but be prepared to travel to the beach.
Day 30-31: Isla Holbox – A Slice of Paradise
Tulum to Isla Holbox: 4 hours by bus and ferry.
After the disappointment in Tulum, Isla Holbox (pronounced hol-bosh) was a refreshing change. This car-free island offers the laid-back beach vibes and stunning blue waters I had been seeking.
Things to Do
Beach Time
The beaches on Holbox are exactly what I had hoped for in Tulum – powdery white sand and crystal-clear water. Playa Punta Cocos is particularly beautiful.
Bioluminescence
If you’re there during the right time of year, don’t miss the chance to see the bioluminescent plankton that light up the water at night.
Rent a Golf Cart
The best way to explore the island is by renting a golf cart. You can drive around the island, stopping at the various beaches and viewpoints along the way.
Where to Stay
I stayed at Casa Peregrino Holbox, a boutique, bright and clean hotel with great views of the lagoon.
Day 32: To Cancun (Or Not)
Isla Holbox to Cancun: 3 hours by ferry and bus.
I wrapped up my Mexican adventure in Cancun, but to be honest, it didn’t live up to the hype. The city felt too touristy and commercial for my taste, and after experiencing the charm of places like Holbox and Bacalar, Cancun seemed rather underwhelming.
If you’re short on time, I’d recommend skipping Cancun altogether and spending more time in the other destinations mentioned above.
This 1 month itinerary through Mexico covers a bit of everything – from the bustling streets of Mexico City to the tranquil beaches of Holbox. Along the way, you’ll experience the country’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty. While some places didn’t quite meet my expectations, others absolutely exceeded them, making this journey an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Mexico offers it all – you just need to know where to look.
