Is Mexico Worth Visiting? My Honest Review 2025

Mexico has honestly become one of my top destinations for pretty much any kind of trip like a beach holiday, a resort vacation, backpacking, or just eating my way through tacos and ceviche for a few weeks.

It’s one of those countries that just does everything well. You’ve got family-friendly resorts, romantic spots for couples, crazy surf beaches, incredible food, loads of culture, and all kinds of adventures from diving to hiking. It’s rare to find a place that has this much variety, and that’s probably why I keep coming back.

I’ve been to Mexico a bunch of times now and made some of the best travel experiences here that I have ever made.

While Mexico has always been a go-to for Americans and Canadians, I’ve noticed more and more Europeans planning trips here too. So, I figured it was time to put together this post and finally answer the question I get asked all the time: Is Mexico worth visiting?

Is Mexico Worth Visiting? My Quick Answer

Absolutely, 100% yes. I’ve been to Mexico countless times now, I think six or seven trips at this point and whether it’s a quick one- or two-week vacation or a long backpacking trip, it’s hands down one of my favorite countries in the world.

I get that a lot of people are skeptical because of how the media portrays Mexico. I was a little cautious the first time too, but over the years I’ve realized it’s really no more dangerous than the U.S. or Europe if you travel smart and stay aware.

I’ve had so many incredible experiences here, from swimming in the turquoise Caribbean waters of the Yucatán, wandering through Mayan ruins like Chichén Itzá, eating my way through Oaxaca and Chiapas, taking surf lessons in Puerto Escondido and Sayulita, to even celebrating Día de Muertos in Playa del Carmen. 

Every trip has been completely different, and that’s what I love most about Mexico, it’s so diverse in its food, people, and landscapes.

And don’t even get me started on the food. Mexican cuisine is probably my favorite in the world. Nothing beats a plate of street tacos or a big bowl of chilaquiles after a morning swim.

If you’ve been on the fence about visiting Mexico, take this as your sign to just go. I’ve written loads of detailed Mexico guides on my site (click here for more Mexico guides) with photos, tips, and honest experiences to help you plan. Mexico is without a doubt in my personal top 3 countries in the world, and that definitely means something.

What is Visiting Mexico like?

“What’s Mexico like?”. That’s probably the number one question I get asked, and every single time my answer is the same: it’s amazing.

But to be fair, it’s also a hard question to answer quickly. Mexico is huge and incredibly diverse, there are mountain regions around the Sierra Madre and Chiapas, turquoise Caribbean waters in the Yucatán, lush jungles, dry desert landscapes up north, laid-back beach towns, colorful colonial cities, and massive buzzing metropolises. 

See why I struggle to sum it up in one sentence? Every trip here feels completely different, which is exactly why I keep coming back.

Most people are probably after a beach vacation where you can also see a few sights and do some activities and for that, the Yucatán is perfect. I’ve had some of my best beach days on Isla Mujeres and Isla Holbox, danced my way through Playa del Carmen and Tulum, and spent days scuba diving, jumping into cenotes, and visiting Chichén Itzá.

So if I had to sum it up, I’d say: the beaches are incredible, the locals are friendly and funny, the food is unreal, the nature is stunning, and the culture is rich. Basically, Mexico is the full package.

What I Really Love About Mexico

Mexican food: My number one favorite thing about Mexico is the food. From street tacos al pastor and birria to quesadillas, chilaquiles, mole, and chile relleno, it’s just all so good. I highly recommend eating where the locals eat instead of sticking to the touristy “Mexican restaurants.” You’ll find the best food on tiny plastic stools by the roadside, not under a chandelier.

Mexican culture: One of the biggest reasons I love Latin America, including Mexico, is the culture. People are warm, funny, inviting, and just genuinely know how to have a good time. There’s always music, dancing, laughter, and tequila and it’s kind of impossible not to get swept up in it.

The landscapes: Mexico is stunning. From turquoise Caribbean beaches and mountain ranges in Chiapas to wild jungles and magical cenotes (natural sinkholes filled with water), the variety is stunning. Every region feels like a different country.

Affordability: Compared to many other countries, Mexico is still fairly affordable. Sure, you can spend a fortune at a fancy all-inclusive resort, but if you travel like me and stay in small local hotels and eat at taquerías, then it’s very budget-friendly.

The overall vibe: This one’s hard to put into words, but Mexico is just fun. Life happens outside, street food sizzling, reggaeton playing, people hanging out on the beach, there’s always something going on. It’s lively, chaotic in the best way, and just makes you feel good to be there.

What I Don’t Like so Much About Mexico

Seasons in Mexico: I know this isn’t really Mexico’s fault, but the seasons can be tricky, especially on the Caribbean side. During the low season, seaweed often takes over the beaches, which can be disappointing if you’ve come for those turquoise waters. Definitely do your research before booking to make sure you’re visiting at the right time.

Corruption & crime: Unfortunately, both exist here, just like in many other countries, but it’s definitely more noticeable in some areas than others. Tulum, for example, is quite notorious for its taxi mafia, cartel presence, and a touch of government corruption. As of recently, even the beaches there aren’t fully public anymore, which is a shame. So just keep an eye on what’s happening locally before you go.

Western influence: I’m well aware that I’m part of the problem too, but in some places, again, Tulum comes to mind, foreign investment has pushed things a little too far. Locals are being priced out, small businesses replaced, and the original charm slowly fading. It’s heartbreaking to see, and it’s a good reminder to travel responsibly and spend your money where it actually helps local communities.

Things to Do in Mexico

When it comes to things to do in Mexico, the list is endless. The country is huge and honestly, I could easily name a hundred amazing experiences I’ve had here. So instead, I’ll just share a few of my absolute favorites (and a couple that are still sitting on my bucket list).

1.Visit Chichén Itzá (or other Mayan ruins)

Mexico, the land of the Mayas, is full of ancient ruins, and Chichén Itzá is definitely the most famous one. 

I’ve been twice now, and even after multiple visits, it still blows me away. I’ve also been to smaller sites near Tulum and Mexico City, and every single one had something fascinating about it. These places are such a powerful reminder of Mexico’s history, definitely a must-do.

Book Here: Guided Tour Chichen Itza

2.Go on a food tour in Mexico City

If you love food (and I really do), Mexico City will ruin you for life. It’s that good. From the best tacos I’ve ever had to high-end Mexican-Japanese fusion restaurants, the variety is insane. 

I’ve basically eaten my way through the city and can confidently say: go hungry and don’t hold back. It’s also totally ok if you’re not confident enough to go and explore on your own. There are plenty of guided food tours you can book. On my very first visit to Mexico City, I did a guided food tour and it was so much fun and our guide showed us restaurants that I would’ve never found myself.

Book Here: Guided Food Tour Mexico City

3.Surfing in Sayulita or Puerto Escondido

Both towns on the Pacific coast, Sayulita and Puerto Escondido, are both surf heaven. Between the two, I’ve spent about two months there, and I absolutely loved the vibe. Super chill, good food, barefoot mornings, and waves for both beginners and pros. 

Even if you’re not into surfing, these towns are worth visiting just for their atmosphere.

4.Visit cenotes in the Yucatán

The cenotes in the Yucatán are magical, natural sinkholes filled with clear, cool water. I’ve done guided tours, but also just rented a car and explored on my own. 

Some are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, others for cliff jumping and rope swings and others are just cool to take some pictures. If you scuba dive, you can even dive inside some of them (still on my list!).

5.Celebrate Día de Muertos (in Oaxaca or Mexico City)

I’ve celebrated Día de Muertos in Playa del Carmen, and it was such a fun night with loads of decorations, face paint, and parties everywhere. 

But if you want the real, authentic experience, Oaxaca City or Mexico City are the places to go. It’s still on my bucket list to celebrate it there properly one day.

6.Scuba diving in Baja California

Baja California looks like an underwater dream. I met someone during my travels who runs a diving company there, and his videos are just incredible with whales, sharks, rays, everything. 

As a scuba diver myself, Baja is very high on my list for my next trip to Mexico.

FAQs About Visiting Mexico

Is Mexico safe to visit?

Generally, yes, I would say it is. Of course, there are areas that are sketchier than others, but I usually stick to popular destinations, and I’ve personally never had any bad experiences. Like anywhere, you just have to be smart and aware of your surroundings. I’ve heard some horror stories too, but for most travelers, Mexico feels completely fine and welcoming.

What are the best places to visit in Mexico?

I have so many favorites, but if I had to pick just one, it’s the small surf town of Sayulita, I’m obsessed. For first-time visitors though, I’d recommend Isla Holbox or Isla Mujeres. Both are easy to reach, beginner-friendly, and give you that perfect mix of chill beaches and good food.

When is the best time to visit Mexico?

My rule of thumb: visit between December and February. That’s the dry season and the weather is at its best. I’ve visited during the low season before and, honestly, the beaches were covered in seaweed which was not ideal. So yes, aim for winter if you can.

What are the best things to do in Mexico?

Eat. Seriously, eat as much local food as you can. Don’t be scared of the plastic-chair taco stands, they’re always the best ones. And don’t just stick to the beach either; explore Mayan ruins, colonial towns, and cenotes. Mexico is about food and culture.

Final Thoughts: Is Mexico Worth Visiting?

If you haven’t figured it out by now, yes, I’m absolutely obsessed with Mexico. I think it’s one of the best countries in the world for any kind of trip, whether it’s a quick one-week vacation or a month-long adventure.

I’ve done it all here, from relaxing at beach resorts to backpacking across the country and I’ve loved every version of it. 

If you’re visiting for the first time, I’d suggest focusing on the Yucatán Peninsula. Places like Isla Mujeres, Bacalar, Isla Holbox, Valladolid, and even Cancun, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen are easy to navigate and full of great things to do.

If you’re up for something a little more local and off the beaten path, head toward Chiapas or Oaxaca, or the small surf towns on the Pacific coast, they have so much character.

Hopefully, this gave you a good idea of what Mexico is like and convinced you to finally book that flight. Because honestly, Mexico is 100% worth visiting.

Check Out My Other Isla Holbox Travel Guides

How to Get to Holbox: A Step by Step Guide

Is Holbox Worth Visiting? My Honest Review

The Best Time to Visit Isla Holbox: My Seaweed & Whale Shark Guide

Where to Stay in Isla Holbox: The Best Areas & Hotels

Best Restaurants in Holbox: My Favorite Places to Eat in Isla Holbox

Cafes in Holbox Island: The Top Cafes & Coffee Shops in Isla Holbox

Things to Do in Holbox: My Favorite Activities in Isla Holbox

Best Beaches in Holbox: My Favorite Holbox Beaches

Check Out My Other Mexico Guides

Is Mexico Worth Visiting: My Honest Review

Best Places to Visit in Mexico: My 11 Top Mexico Destinations