Most Popular Destinations in Mexico: the usual suspects are on

With the release of TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards 2023 comes the news of several new spots making their appearance for the first time. However, some are the same old familiar spots. That is true especially for regional awards, as is the case of Mexico.

This year’s list features the destinations we are used to finding on any favorite’s roll. The Mexican Caribbean leads the way with the two top spots. Los Cabos claims the third and Puerto Vallarta takes number four. But let’s take a look at the full top 10.

1. Cancun, Quintana Roo

No surprise here, as Cancun has been the top Mexican destination for a few years now.

Sunny Cancun has much more to offer than its party-town reputation might suggest. Plenty of gorgeous, drama-free family resorts cater to folks who want to experience the tropical Yucatan climate.

2. Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Justo like her sister neighboring destination, Playa del Carmen is a staple on this list.

Playa del Carmen is one of the top diving destination the world, thanks to vibrant sea life and dazzling underwater caverns. On dry land, Playa is a hipper and more modern version of the fishing village it once was.

3. Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur

The closest destination to the American West Coast market, Cabo San Lucas is a well-known destination for both spring breakers and A-list travelers in need of a getaway. Along with San José del Cabo, it composes the Los Cabos area.

4. Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

The most Mexican of Mexico’s beach destinations and recipient of The Friendliest City in the World Award, Puerto Vallarta is the best way to kick off your vacation. Then hit the cobblestone streets of Old Vallarta to browse the flea market for handmade crafts.

5. Tulum, Quintana Roo

Two hours away from Cancun and served by the same airport, Tulum is guarded by Mayan ruins towering over the sea. The formerly walled city was one of the last to be built by the Mayans, and its archaeological sites are incredibly well preserved. Take a break from the beach to visit El Castillo or the Temple of the Frescoes.

6. Mexico City

Of course, the country’s capital city could not be absent from any best-of-Mexico list. Rising from the ruins of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, Mexico City offers a unique collision of contemporary city life and historic preservation. World-class museums, restaurants and parks rub shoulders with the remains of several cultures.

7. Costa Mujeres, Quintana Roo

Travelers have decided to list this spot as a separate destination, although technically speaking, it is part of Cancun. However, the northern area offers a slightly different vibe worth considering in your plans.

8. Cozumel, Quintana Roo

Yet another Mexican Caribbean destination, and one of the top diving destinations in the world for its bright storybook coral reefs, the island of Cozumel is also home to a variety of natural beaches. Choose a beach with soft white sand for relaxing, or snorkel off a rockier vista. A destination for both… more

9. Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit

Although in a different state, Nuevo Vallarta shares the Banderas Bay with Puerto Vallarta

In Nuevo Vallarta, you can lounge on the golden-sand beaches of Banderas Bay… or take an ATV tour through the nearby Sierra Madre jungle. Or you could treat the kids to a memorable swim with dolphins. (It’ll make for a great “What I did over summer vacation” report.)

10. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

The only non-beach destination apart from Mexico City to make the list, San Miguel de Allende is high in the cool hills. This colonial gem of cobblestone streets and picturesque churches inspires artists with its color, character, and light.