Mexico: Cities and Regions

Mexico City Once known more for crime and smog, Mexico’s capital is experiencing a cultural revolution fueled by a rising economy. Hotels, shops, and art galleries are opening throughout the city at breakneck speed.

Mayan Riviera Stretching south from Punta Brava and Cancún to Punta Allen, the area’s resorts and white-sand beaches offer total indolence and a chance to visit nearby Mayan ruins. See our Mayan Riviera and Cancún Travel Guides

San Miguel de Allende This hillside, desert city has been attracting artistically inclined expats like Beat-generation idol Neal Cassady since the '30s. Expect an assortment of alluring shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

Guadalajara Mexico’s second-largest city gave birth to the charro (cowboy) and tequila. Today, it’s a mecca for decorators seeking Mexican antiques, furnishings, and artwork. The town’s architecture runs from neoclassical to baroque.

Oaxaca Mexico’s most beautiful state is rich in art and history and fiercely proud of its Zapotec heritage. Explore its untouched coastline and awe-inspiring ruins, and sieze the opportunity to try a traditional Temazcal sauna.

Costa Alegre Small beach hideaways dot this stunning stretch of Pacific coast from Puerto Vallrta to fishing port Manzanillo. Although Puerto Vallarta is undergoing dizzying development, the small, cobblestone-fishing-village feel remains. See our Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide

Baja California In between popular, southerly Tijuana and party-happy, northerly Cabo San Lucas, the Pacific-facing Baja peninsula shelters small port towns and white-sand beaches. Diving and water sports are popular draws. See our Cabo San Lucas Travel Guide

Cozumel Best known as a scuba-diver’s paradise, the island of Cozumel is ringed with Technicolor coral reefs. On land, it’s a dream Caribbean destination too, with a lively small town (San Miguel), long, palm-shaded beaches, lush jungle, and ancient Mayan ruins. See our Cozumel Travel Guide

Acapulco One of the Mexican Riviera's most fabled hotspots, Acapulco is deeply ingrained in the sun seeker's subconscious as a pilgrimage-worthy destination. Some say the resort has had its heyday, but like a fallen celeb pushing back into the spotlight, the "Queen of Mexican Beach Resorts" is having a comeback. See our Acapulco Travel Guide