Best travel tips for Mexico

Mexico is a country that dances to the rhythm of its own heartbeat

Think vibrant colors, ancient civilizations, mouth-watering street food, and endless stretches of coastline. During our travels through Mexico, we explored both bustling cities and sleepy villages, stunning beaches and magical highlands. Whether you’re visiting Mexico for a two-week holiday or planning a longer journey, our practical tips will help you make the most of your Mexican adventure.

When is the best time to visit Mexico?

Mexico’s climate varies by region, but overall, it is a fantastic year-round destination.

November to April (Dry Season): The most popular time to visit, with warm temperatures and sunny skies. Perfect for beaches, exploring cities, and visiting ancient ruins.
May to October (Rainy Season): Expect more humidity and occasional tropical showers, but the countryside is lush and vibrant. Ideal if you want to avoid crowds and benefit from lower prices.
Hurricane Season: June to November mainly affects the coastal regions, especially the Caribbean coast and Yucatan, so keep an eye on weather forecasts if visiting during these months.

We visited in October and November and enjoyed perfect weather: warm days, cooler evenings, and hardly any rain.

How to get to Mexico?

By Air: Mexico City (CDMX), Cancun, and Guadalajara are the main international hubs, served by major airlines from Europe, North America, and South America.
Overland: If you are traveling through Central America or the US, Mexico has multiple land border crossings, especially from Guatemala and the USA.
Visa Policy: Many nationalities can enter Mexico visa-free for up to 180 days. Always double-check your specific requirements.

Tip: Book your flights early, especially if you are traveling during the busy holiday periods.

How to get around Mexico?

Domestic Flights: Mexico is a large country! For long distances, consider budget airlines like Volaris or VivaAerobus.
Long-Distance Buses: Companies like ADO and ETN offer safe, comfortable buses between cities and tourist regions.
Car Rental: Perfect for exploring the Yucatan Peninsula, Baja California, or Oaxaca. Be aware of local traffic rules and always get full insurance.
Local Transport: In cities, you can use Uber, Didi, or local taxis. Always agree on a fare beforehand if taxis are unmetered.

We rented a car to drive around the Yucatan Peninsula, flew domestic from Cancun to Mexico City and traveled from Mexico City to Puebla and Oaxaca by ADO bus. All very doable and comfortable.

How to pay in Mexico?

Cash: Widely used, especially in smaller towns and for street vendors.
Cards: Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops.
ATMs: Easy to find, but always use machines inside banks for extra security.

Tip: Always carry a bit of cash (pesos) with you, especially in rural areas or local markets.

What are the Top Destinations in Mexico?

Mexico City: Vibrant, historic, and massive. Don’t miss the Plaza de la Constitucion, Frida Kahlo Museum, and Chapultepec Park.
Yucatan Peninsula: Home to Chichen Itza, stunning cenotes, Bacalar and beautiful beaches.
Oaxaca: Culture, crafts, and cuisine all packed into one magical state.
Puebla: A colorful colonial town with an artistic soul.
Baja California Sur: For whale watching, surfing, and desert landscapes.
Pacific Beaches: From Zihuatanejo to Escondido…

From bustling markets to serene beaches, Mexico is as diverse as it is beautiful and always look here for the best Tour Tours and Attractions.

What to eat in Mexico?

Mexico is a culinary paradise where every meal feels like a celebration.

Tacos: From roadside stands to gourmet restaurants, tacos are everywhere. Try al pastor, carnitas, or fish tacos.
Tamales: Corn dough filled with meats, cheeses, or chilies, steamed in banana leaves or corn husks.
Ceviche: Especially fresh along the coasts.
Chilaquiles: A delicious breakfast dish with fried tortilla chips, salsa, and toppings.
Street Food: Trust the busy stalls, and you’ll find incredible flavors at low prices.

We ate plant-based where possible and found great vegetarian options, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.

Where to stay in Mexico?

City Centers: In Mexico City, Oaxaca, Merida and smaller towns like Valladolid, you will find boutique hotels, hostels, and budget-friendly Airbnbs.
Beach Resorts: Popular beach towns and smaller beach villages offer a wide range, from luxury to eco-chic.
Pueblos Magicos: Charming “magical towns” like San Cristobal de las Casas offer affordable and authentic stays.

Tip: Book early if traveling around Christmas, Semana Santa (Easter), or during summer vacations.

We stayed in several accommodations during our amost two months stay in Mexico so check our Mexico blogs for our favorites. But this boutique hotel in Cancun was definitely one of our favorites! And always check here for the best Mexico accommodation deals!

Useful apps and tools for Mexico

Google Maps: Reliable for directions and public transport info.
Uber: Widely used in major cities.
Rome2Rio: Helpful for planning intercity travel.
XE Currency: For real-time currency conversion.

Staying connected in Mexico

Staying online in Mexico is easy, but should you get an eSIM or a local SIM card? Here’s what we found:

eSIM (Best for Convenience & Multi-Country Travel)

Activate online before landing.
Perfect for seamless use across multiple (Latin) American countries.

Local SIM Card (Best for Budget & Heavy Data Users)

Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T are the main providers.
SIM cards are cheap (around 150-300 MXN) and widely available.

Our Verdict: For a short trip, an eSIM is easy and sufficient. If you stay longer or need lots of data, buying a local Telcel SIM gives better value and coverage.

Budget tips for traveling to Mexico

Eat Local: Street food and local restaurants are delicious and affordable.
Use Buses: Comfortable long-distance buses are cheaper than flights.
City Cards: Some cities (like Mexico City) offer tourist cards with discounts on attractions.
Negotiate: In markets, bargaining is expected and part of the fun.

Cultural tips for Mexico

Greetings: A handshake or a light cheek kiss is common.
Punctuality: Time is flexible; don’t expect strict adherence to schedules.
Tipping: 10-15% in restaurants is standard.
Safety: Mexico is safer than most people think, however: Stick to well-known areas, especially after dark, and use official taxis.

Mexicans are incredibly warm and hospitable; a few Spanish phrases will go a long way!

Frequently Asked Questions about traveling to Mexico

Q: Is Mexico safe for tourists?
A: Generally yes, but stay informed about local advice and avoid high-risk areas.

Q: Do I need vaccines to visit Mexico?
A: Routine vaccines are recommended. Check if you need hepatitis A, typhoid, or rabies depending on your activities and the area you plan to visit

Q: Is English widely spoken?
A: In tourist areas, yes. In rural areas, a few Spanish basics will help immensely.

Q: How do I get internet access?
A: Use an eSIM for convenience or buy a local SIM card for better value and coverage.

Ready to discover Mexico?

Mexico amazed us hugely with its variety, friendliness, and sheer energy. Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, swim in cenotes, wander colorful markets, or simply enjoy world-class food, Mexico will steal your heart.

Got questions or your own Mexico tips to share? Drop us a message or find us on Instagram — we would love to hear from you!

Viva Mexico! Vamos a Mexico!

the booming journey