5 Most Vibrant and Colorful Places to Visit in Mexico
Mexico is a country bursting with vibrant colors, rich history, and diverse cultures.
As a travel expert that lives in Mexico, I’ve had the opportunity to explore many of its colorful cities and towns.
If you’re looking for destinations that embody the lively spirit of Mexico, here are 5 places you simply can’t miss.
Planning a trip to Mexico? Use my favorite travel resources!
🏨 Hotels: Expedia or Booking.com
✈️ Flights: Skyscanner
🚗 Rental Cars: Discover Cars
🤿 Tours & Activities: Viator
🚨 Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance Master
1. Mexico City
The heart of Mexico, Mexico City, is a bustling metropolis blending old-world charm with modern sophistication.
Known for its vast array of museums, such as the Frida Kahlo Museum and the National Museum of Anthropology, it’s a haven for history buffs and art lovers.
The city’s historic center, Zócalo, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a glimpse into the country’s rich past along with landmarks like Chapultepec Castle, the floating gardens of Xochimilco, and the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes.
Mexico City also hosts one of the largest Day of the Dead celebrations in the country, with colorful parades and vibrant altars throughout the city.
2. Oaxaca
Located in southern Mexico, Oaxaca is a visual feast of color and tradition.
The city’s colonial architecture is adorned with brightly painted walls and intricate designs, while its artisan markets overflow with vibrant textiles and pottery.
You can also find some of the best traditional cuisine in Mexico here, including the famous mole sauce and tlayudas.
This city also comes alive during the annual Guelaguetza festival, which showcases traditional dance and music from Oaxaca’s various regions.
3. Guanajuato
Guanajuato, a picturesque city nestled in the mountains, is famed for its brightly colored houses and winding alleyways.
Its unique tunnel system and the stunning view from El Pipila monument offer a different perspective of the city’s layout and architecture.
Guanajuato is also the birthplace of famed artist Diego Rivera, and his childhood home, now a museum, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
The city is particularly lively during the Cervantino Festival, one of Latin America’s largest arts festivals.
4. San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende, a stunning colonial-era city in Mexico’s central highlands, is known for its well-preserved Baroque Spanish architecture, thriving arts scene, and cultural festivals.
The heart of the city is El Jardín, a leafy plaza surrounded by historic buildings, including the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel.
The city’s art galleries, craft shops, and gourmet restaurants offer a feast for the senses, making it a popular destination for both Mexican and international visitors.
5. Mérida
Mérida, known as the “cultural capital of the Yucatan”, is a vibrant city offering a blend of Mayan culture and colonial history.
The colorful city center is home to the grand Mérida Cathedral and the bustling Plaza Grande.
The city also hosts a variety of cultural events, including the vibrant Hanal Pixán festival, which celebrates the Day of the Dead.
Just outside of Mérida, you can find the stunningly colorful towns of Izamal and Valladolid, perfect for day trips.
Are you ready to visit one of these vibrant cities in Mexico?
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, Mexico is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a lively and colorful experience.
Explore these 5 places to get an authentic taste of what this beautiful country has to offer.
🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?
These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:
🏨 Hotels: I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com. If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!
✈️ Flights: I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.
🚗 Rental Cars: I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.
🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation: I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!
🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.
🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.
☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list! Regular sunscreen is prohibited when swimming in the ocean and cenotes in Mexico, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.
