7-Day Itinerary: Exploring Mexico

Friday, December 1: Mexico City

In the morning, visit the iconic Zocalo, the main square of Mexico City, to admire the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace. In the afternoon, explore the historic neighborhood of Coyoacan, where you can visit the Frida Kahlo Museum. As the evening sets in, head to the trendy Condesa neighborhood for dinner and drinks.

• Zocalo: Cost estimate - MXN 0, Time spent - 2 hours
• Frida Kahlo Museum: Cost estimate - MXN 200, Time spent - 2 hours
• Condesa neighborhood: Cost estimate - MXN 500, Time spent - Evening

Saturday, December 2: Teotihuacan

Start your day by visiting the ancient city of Teotihuacan, known for its impressive pyramids, such as the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Spend the morning exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Shrine of Guadalupe, a major pilgrimage site. Enjoy the evening in the charming town of San Angel, known for its art galleries and colonial architecture.

• Teotihuacan: Cost estimate - MXN 75, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Shrine of Guadalupe: Cost estimate - MXN 0, Time spent - 1 hour
• San Angel: Cost estimate - MXN 300, Time spent - Evening

Sunday, December 3: Oaxaca

Take an early morning flight to Oaxaca. Spend the morning exploring the historic center of Oaxaca City, including the beautiful Santo Domingo Church. In the afternoon, visit the archaeological site of Monte Alban, an ancient Zapotec city with impressive ruins. Enjoy the evening strolling through the vibrant Benito Juarez Market and trying local delicacies.

• Santo Domingo Church: Cost estimate - MXN 50, Time spent - 2 hours
• Monte Alban: Cost estimate - MXN 80, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Benito Juarez Market: Cost estimate - MXN 200, Time spent - Evening

Monday, December 4: Puebla

Take a morning bus to Puebla, known for its colonial architecture and culinary delights. Explore the historic city center, including the impressive Puebla Cathedral and the colorful Capilla del Rosario. In the afternoon, visit the Great Pyramid of Cholula, the largest pyramid in the world by volume. Enjoy the evening trying traditional Pueblan dishes like mole poblano.

• Puebla Cathedral: Cost estimate - MXN 0, Time spent - 2 hours
• Capilla del Rosario: Cost estimate - MXN 50, Time spent - 1 hour
• Great Pyramid of Cholula: Cost estimate - MXN 70, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Tuesday, December 5: Cancun

Take a morning flight to Cancun, a popular beach destination. Spend the morning relaxing on the pristine white sands of Cancun's beaches. In the afternoon, visit the Mayan ruins of Tulum, situated on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy the evening exploring the vibrant nightlife and dining options in the Hotel Zone.

• Cancun Beaches: Cost estimate - MXN 0, Time spent - Morning
• Tulum: Cost estimate - MXN 80, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Hotel Zone: Cost estimate - MXN 500, Time spent - Evening

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Nader, known for its freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to La Parrilla Downtown where you can savor traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos and enchiladas. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• In the evening, dine at Lorenzillo's, a seafood restaurant famous for its lobster dishes. Enjoy the oceanfront view while indulging in a mouthwatering lobster dinner. Average cost for a meal is about $45 per person.

Wednesday, December 6: Cozumel

Take a ferry to the island of Cozumel, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Spend the day snorkeling or scuba diving in the colorful underwater world. Enjoy the evening exploring the shops and restaurants in downtown San Miguel.

• Snorkeling/Scuba Diving: Cost estimate - MXN 500, Time spent - Full day
• Downtown San Miguel: Cost estimate - MXN 300, Time spent - Evening

Thursday, December 7: Playa del Carmen

Take a ferry back to the mainland and head to Playa del Carmen. Spend the morning relaxing on the beautiful beaches or exploring the vibrant Fifth Avenue, lined with shops, cafes, and bars. In the afternoon, visit the stunning cenotes (natural sinkholes) in the area for a refreshing swim. Enjoy the evening with a delicious meal at a beachfront restaurant.

• Fifth Avenue: Cost estimate - MXN 0, Time spent - Morning
• Cenotes: Cost estimate - MXN 100, Time spent - Afternoon
• Beachfront Restaurant: Cost estimate - MXN 400, Time spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the charming town of Taxco known for its silver mines and colonial architecture. Nature lovers can explore the stunning Copper Canyon in Chihuahua, offering breathtaking landscapes and hiking opportunities. Locals love visiting the colorful Xochimilco canals in Mexico City for a relaxing boat ride and party atmosphere.

Check out hotel and flight prices for your Mexico trip on Kayak.