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August 12, 2021 by Mar Z. Luna Our Top Picks 0 comments

10 Most Magnificent Cities in Mexico You Don’t Want to Miss

Cities in Mexico are full of amazing architecture, delicious food, museums, beaches, music, cultural dances, and much more!

Every place in Mexico has its own unique energy and charm. And people from all over the world love to travel to Mexico’s cities. Are you ready to learn more about this fascinating North American country and all its enchanting cities?

¡Vamos!
Let’s go.

10 Magnificent Cities in Mexico You Must Visit

Mexico is a country with an amazing heritage and each of these cities has an attractiveness of its own. Some of the richest cities in Latin America are in Mexico.

From unique music to delicious food, Mexico welcomes travelers from all over the world. Check out this curated list of the best cities in Mexico to visit on your next trip. 

And remember to practice your Spanish with the locals!

Mexico Map
Map of Mexico

1. Puebla

Population: 3.2 million

What they’re famous for: incredible local cuisine and amazing art

Puebla map
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Puebla is one of the major cities in Mexico. Try the delightful local cuisine such as mole poblano (dark red or brown sauce served over meat), cemitas (the sister of the Mexican torta), and tacos al arabe (arabic tacos). The historic Centro and Zócalo are also a must. The city is also famous for its sweets. The best ones are on Calle de los Dulces.

Puebla is bursting with culture. Museo Amparo in the center of town is one of the best museums in Latin America. Their collection includes contemporary exhibitions from modern to indigenous artists.

On the outskirts of town, the Baroque Museum is full of mind-bending  Baroque art. Puebla is perfect for art lovers and architecture buffs alike.

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2. Mexico City

Population: 21.9 million

What they’re famous for: being one of the world’s great cultural capitals

Mexico City map
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With its colorful excitement, Mexico City is a wonderful city to visit. It offers everything from delicious street food to high-end restaurants.

This city loves to celebrate. In fact, El día de los muertos (Day of the Dead) on November 1 is one of the most famous holidays in the country. It makes for an unforgettable experience.

This giant metropolis is just 45 minutes from the ancient Aztec city of Teotihuacán. Other incredible sites to see are la Plaza de la Constitución and La Casa Azul (The Blue House), which is the Frida Kahlo museum.

cities in Mexico
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3. Bacalar

Population: 41,754

What they’re famous for: the stunning lagoon of seven colors 

Bacalar map
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Bacalar in Quintana Roo is a hidden gem with beaches that are equally as stunning and much less crowded than Cancun’s. It’s affordable and has a growing expat community. 

La Laguna de Siete Colores (the Lagoon of Seven Colors) is one of the top attractions. The incredible shades of blue make for a magical view. 

Bacalar also has a major marine habitat, and it’s an ideal spot to go snorkeling, swimming, or kayaking. Practice yoga, eat fresh seafood, and sip refreshing drinks by the beach. Bacalar is a perfect getaway spot to relax and recharge.

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4. Guadalajara

Population: 5.3 million

What they’re famous for: being Mexico’s cultural and laid-back second city

Guadalajara map
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Guadalajara is the second largest city in Mexico—and one of the safest cities in the country.

The capital of Jalisco embraces its local heritage with tequila and mariachi bands. The historic city center contains baroque churches with breathtaking architecture. Each September, it hosts one of the biggest festivals in Latin America, the Mariachi Festival.

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5. San Cristóbal de las Casas

Population: 186,000

What they’re famous for: gorgeous colonial architecture 

San Cristóbal de las Casas map
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San Cristóbal de las Casas is another Mexican pueblo mágico (magic town) because of how enchanting it is. This high-plane paradise is another colonial city and home to various indigenous communities. 

This Mexican gem is home to the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya (Center for the Mayan Textile World). If you’re looking to explore further, go mountain biking, on a textile-making tour, or ziplining. 

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6. Oaxaca City

Population: 714,983

What they’re famous for: being the gastronomic capital of Mexico

Oaxaca City map
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Oaxaca’s colonial architecture and culinary scene make it one of Mexico’s most popular cities. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Spain’s influence is still evident along its cobblestone streets. The Templo de Santo Domingo y El Centro Histórico (Temple of Santo Domingo and Historical Center) are two famous landmarks to check out. 

Oaxaca is a mix between the old and the new with hip boutiques, cafés, and hotels. The Monte Alban archeological site is 10 minutes outside the city. It boasts some of the best preserved ruins in Mexico. 

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7. Mérida

Population: 1.2 million

What they’re famous for: laid-back Yucatan vibes

Mérida map
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Mérida, Yucatan is an under-the-radar spot for travelers with an artsy vibe, colonial relics, and amazing restaurants. Many cafés, hotels, shops, and art galleries line the streets. 

Like all Mexican cities, Mérida blends Spanish and indigenous culture. Visit the Romanesque cathedral and Casa de Montejo in the main square. 

Be sure to try local Yucatecan food while you’re in town. Many restaurants serve Mexican dishes such as papadzules (fried corn tortillas), pavo relleno negro (black stuffing), and cochinita pibil (piglet).  

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8.  Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

Population: 530,078

What they’re famous for: being a beautiful colonial beach town

Puerto Vallarta Map
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Puerto Vallarta’s historic cobblestone streets connect to the shoreline. Its beaches offer breathtaking sunsets and the Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone) is the historical city center. With its awesome beach vibe and bright bougainvilleas, Puerto Vallarta is the ultimate getaway.

The city’s whitewashed buildings, cobblestone streets, and colorful houses are sure to charm you. Travel to smaller beach towns in the region for a day trip. Puerto Vallarta also has a vibrant nightlife.

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9.San Miguel de Allende

Population: 171,857

What they’re famous for: being a UNESCO World Heritage city

San Miguel de Allende map
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San Miguel de Allende is a city in Mexico full of art, history, culture and colorful architecture. Many consider this large colonial town to be one of the best cities in Mexico. Its main plaza is a cultural hub and full of unique art galleries and restaurants. The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel (Parish of Archangel Michael) is its most famous landmark.

San Miguel de Allende is a favorite among expats. People from all over the world have settled there. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well.

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10. Taxco de Alarcón

Population: 98,853

What they’re famous for: Being the silver capital of the world

Taxco de Alarcón map
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The final city on the list is Taxco de Alarcón. This is the spot if you’re looking for silver jewelry. Silver artisans craft the silver into jewelry, and it’s a huge part of the local economy.

Taxco is another pueblos mágico that looks like a fairytale. The Church of Santa Prisca that towers over this mountainous town was once the tallest building in Mexico. Taxco is high up in the Sierra Madre Mountains which makes it even more mystical.

cities in Mexico
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Learn Spanish Before You Travel

No matter which of these amazing Mexican cities you prefer, learning the language is a must when you travel there. Being able to speak Spanish makes travel to Spanish-speaking countries so much easier and more meaningful. 

And did you know that being bilingual also improves your cognition and decision-making abilities? 

Sign up for a free class to practice your conversational skills in preparation for your trip to Mexico! Here at Homeschool Spanish Academy, our friendly, certified teachers from Guatemala are ready to help you improve your Spanish skills.

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  • Author
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Mar Z. Luna
Mar Z. Luna
Freelance Writer at Learn Grow Travel
Mar Z. Luna is a published writer and communicator who loves to explore and educate. She majored in Communications and strives to help others improve their lives. She recently published a book, Inside, and has contributed to different publications such as Que Pasa Magazine. Communicating comes naturally to her and she hopes to simplify what seems complex by using reliable sources and her teaching experience. You can find her at www.learngrowtravel.com
Mar Z. Luna
Latest posts by Mar Z. Luna (see all)
  • 13 Famous Hispanic Women in History Who Made Enormous Impact - January 23, 2023
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