Mexico City Itinerary

Overview

This three week Mexico travel itinerary begins in Mexico City, a bustling capital blending history, art, and culinary delights. Highlights include world-class museums, ancient ruins, and vibrant neighborhoods.

How long to stay in Mexico City

3 days

How to get there

Fly into Mexico City International Airport (MEX).

Best hotels to stay in Mexico City

1. Selina Mexico City (Highly rated hostel) – Social vibe in the city center. Book here.
2. Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral (Budget option) – Great location near the Zócalo. Book here.
3. Zócalo Central Hotel (Boutique hotel) – Elegant rooms with rooftop dining. Book here.

What to do in Mexico City

• Visit the National Museum of Anthropology ($5).
• Explore the historic Zócalo and Palacio de Bellas Artes (Free).
• Take a day trip to Teotihuacan Pyramids ($50 guided tour).
• Stroll through Chapultepec Park (Free).
• Enjoy the nightlife in the Roma-Condesa district.

Where to eat in Mexico City

• El Huequito ($) – Iconic tacos al pastor. Google Review: 4.5
• Contramar ($$) – Famous seafood spot. Google Review: 4.7
• Pujol ($$$) – Fine dining with a modern take on Mexican cuisine. Google Review: 4.8

Modes of transport in Mexico City

• Metro (cheap, ~$0.50 per ride), buses, and Uber.

Mexico City digital nomad rating:

5/5

• Pros: Fast internet, vibrant culture, coworking spaces.
• Cons: Traffic and air pollution.

San Miguel de Allende Itinerary

Overview

San Miguel de Allende is a charming colonial town known for its cobblestone streets, vibrant art scene, and stunning architecture like the iconic pink Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel.

How long to stay in San Miguel de Allende

2 days

How to get from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende

• Take a Primera Plus or ETN bus to San Miguel de Allende (4 hours; $25). Alternatively, book a private shuttle (3.5 hours; $150).

Best hotels to stay in San Miguel de Allende:

1. La Catrina Hostel (Highly rated hostel) – Affordable and centrally located. Book here.
2. Casa de la Noche (Budget option) – Quaint B&B with a local touch. Book here.
3. Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada (Boutique hotel) – Luxury with colonial charm. Book here.

What to do in San Miguel de Allende

• Visit the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel (Free).
• Explore the Fabrica La Aurora Art Center (Free).
• Relax at the nearby La Gruta Hot Springs ($15).
• Wander the streets and enjoy boutique shopping (Free).

Where to eat in San Miguel de Allende

• The Restaurant ($$) – International fusion. Google Review: 4.7
• Atrio ($$$) – Fine dining with rooftop views. Google Review: 4.8

San Miguel de Allende digital nomad rating:

4.5/5

• Pros: Artistic vibe, great for inspiration.
• Cons: Limited coworking spaces.

Guanajuato Itinerary

Overview:

Guanajuato is a picturesque city with colorful houses, underground tunnels, and a rich cultural history.

How long to stay in Guanajuato

2 days

How to get from San Miguel de Allende to Guanajuato

• By Bus: Primera Plus or ETN (1.5 hours, ~$10).

Best hotels to stay in Guanajuato

1. Hostal Casa del Ángel (Highly rated hostel) – Cozy and affordable. Book here.
2. Casa Zuniga B&B (Budget option) – Comfortable with great city views. Book here.
3. Villa Maria Cristina (Boutique hotel) – Luxurious and charming. Book here.

What to do in Guanajuato

• Take a funicular ride to the Pípila Monument for panoramic views ($2).
• Explore the Mummy Museum ($5).
• Visit the Teatro Juárez and surrounding plazas (Free).
• Walk through the charming Callejón del Beso (Free).

Where to eat in Guanajuato

• Casa Valadez ($$) – Mexican and international dishes. Google Review: 4.7
• Los Campos Restaurante ($$$) – Upscale with a romantic vibe. Google Review: 4.8

Guanajuato digital nomad rating:

4/5

• Pros: Beautiful setting, artistic atmosphere.
• Cons: Limited coworking spaces.

Guadalajara Itinerary

Overview

Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city, is a cultural hub renowned for its mariachi music, tequila, and beautiful colonial architecture.

How long to stay in Guadalajara

2 days

How to get from Guanajuato to Guadalajara

• By Bus: Primera Plus or ETN (4-5 hours, ~$25).
• By Car: Drive (4 hours).

Best hotels to stay in Guadalajara:

1. Hostel Hospedarte Centro (Highly rated hostel) – Centrally located with a lively atmosphere. Book here.
2. Casa Habita (Budget option) – Trendy boutique hotel in the Lafayette neighborhood. Book here.
3. Villa Ganz Boutique Hotel (Boutique hotel) – Elegant and tranquil setting. Book here.

What to do in Guadalajara

• Visit the Hospicio Cabañas (UNESCO World Heritage Site, $4).
• Explore the historic Plaza de Armas and Guadalajara Cathedral (Free).
• Take a day trip to Tequila Town for distillery tours ($50-$100).
• Stroll through the Tlaquepaque neighborhood for art and crafts (Free).

Where to eat in Guadalajara

• Karne Garibaldi ($) – Famous for carne en su jugo. Google Review: 4.6
• Hueso ($$) – Artistic dining experience with modern cuisine. Google Review: 4.7
• Restaurante Alcalde ($$$) – Contemporary Mexican fine dining. Google Review: 4.8

Modes of transport in Guadalajara

• Uber, taxis, and a reliable metro system ($0.50 per ride).

Guadalajara digital nomad rating:

4.5/5

• Pros: Great internet, vibrant nightlife, coworking spaces.
• Cons: Traffic can be hectic.

Puerto Vallarta Itinerary

Overview

Puerto Vallarta is a lively beach town on the Pacific coast, known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and the scenic Malecón promenade.

How long to stay in Puerto Vallarta

2 days

How to get from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta

• By Bus: ETN or Primera Plus (5-6 hours, ~$30).
• By Plane: Direct flight (1 hour, ~$70).

Best hotels to stay in Puerto Vallarta

1. Los Muertos Hostel (Highly rated hostel) – Great location near the beach. Book here.
2. Hotel Porto Allegro (Budget option) – Affordable and centrally located. Book here.
3. Garza Blanca Preserve Resort (Boutique hotel) – Luxury beachfront resort. Book here.

What to do in Puerto Vallarta

• Walk along the Malecón Boardwalk and enjoy street performances (Free).
• Relax on Playa Los Muertos (Free).
• Take a boat trip to Las Marietas Islands ($75-$100).
• Explore the local markets and shops in Zona Romántica (Free).

Where to eat in Puerto Vallarta

• Tacos Revolución ($) – Popular spot for tacos. Google Review: 4.6
• El Barracuda ($$) – Beachfront seafood. Google Review: 4.7
• La Leche ($$$) – Stylish contemporary Mexican dining. Google Review: 4.8

Puerto Vallarta digital nomad rating:

4.5/5

• Pros: Stunning beaches, good internet, relaxed vibe.
• Cons: Humid weather during summer months.

Oaxaca City Itinerary

Overview

Oaxaca City is a cultural and culinary gem, celebrated for its rich indigenous heritage, colorful festivals, and traditional mezcal production.

How long to stay in Oaxaca City

3 days

How to get from Puerto Vallarta to Oaxaca City

• Fly directly to Oaxaca City (1.5 hours; $80-$120). Alternatively, take a bus via Mexico City for a longer journey (14-15 hours; $50).

Best hotels to stay in Oaxaca City

1. Hostel La Cochinilla (Highly rated hostel) – Great for budget travelers. Book here.
2. Casa de las Bugambilias (Budget option) – Charming B&B with Oaxacan decor. Book here.
3. Hotel Azul Oaxaca (Boutique hotel) – Modern luxury with artistic touches. Book here.

What to do in Oaxaca City

• Visit the Templo de Santo Domingo and Cultural Center (Free).
• Explore the Monte Albán ruins ($5 entry).
• Wander the Oaxaca markets (Mercado 20 de Noviembre and Benito Juárez, Free).
• Take a mezcal tasting tour ($30-$50).

Where to eat in Oaxaca City

• Tlayudas Doña Martha ($) – Traditional tlayudas. Google Review: 4.6
• Los Danzantes ($$) – Upscale Oaxacan cuisine. Google Review: 4.7
• Casa Oaxaca ($$$) – Renowned fine dining. Google Review: 4.8

Modes of transport in Oaxaca City

• Walking for central attractions; taxis for day trips.

Oaxaca City digital nomad rating:

4.5/5

• Pros: Affordable, rich culture, vibrant food scene.
• Cons: Slower internet in some areas.

Puerto Escondido Itinerary

Overview

Puerto Escondido is a laid-back beach destination known for its world-class surfing, stunning sunsets, and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a haven for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation on the Pacific coast.

How long to stay in Puerto Escondido:

3 days

How to get to Puerto Escondido from Oaxaca City

• Take a bus via the Carretera Federal 175 (6-7 hours; $20-$30). Alternatively, book a direct flight to Puerto Escondido (45 minutes; $50-$100).

Best hotels to stay in Puerto Escondido:

1. Selina Puerto Escondido (Highly rated hostel) – Social and ideal for surfers. Book here.
2. Casa Losodeli & Coworking (Budget option) – Affordable with coworking spaces. Book here.
3. Villas Carrizalillo (Boutique hotel) – Beautiful cliffside views of Carrizalillo Beach. Book here.

What to do in Puerto Escondido

• Surf or watch surfers at Zicatela Beach (Free).
• Relax at Carrizalillo Beach, a calm and scenic cove (Free).
• Take a bioluminescence tour on Laguna de Manialtepec ($20-$30).
• Release baby sea turtles through a conservation program ($10).

Where to eat in Puerto Escondido

• El Cafecito ($) – Delicious breakfasts and casual fare. Google Review: 4.6
• Spirulina ($$) – Healthy bowls and smoothies. Google Review: 4.7
• Almoraduz Cocina de Autor ($$$) – Modern Oaxacan cuisine. Google Review: 4.8

Modes of transport in Puerto Escondido

• Taxis and collectivos are common; walking works for most areas.

Puerto Escondido digital nomad rating:

4/5

• Pros: Affordable, relaxed vibe, great beaches.
• Cons: Spotty internet in some locations.

Tulum Itinerary

Overview

Tulum combines ancient Mayan ruins with stunning white sand beaches and a bohemian vibe. It’s a hotspot for yoga enthusiasts, eco-tourism, and trendy dining experiences.

How long to stay in Tulum

2 days

How to get to Tulum from Puerto Escondido

• Take a flight from Puerto Escondido to Cancun (1.5 hours; $100-$150), then a bus to Tulum (2 hours; $15).
• Alternatively, book a flight to Cancun with a private transfer to Tulum ($100-$150).

Best hotels to stay in Tulum

1. Che Tulum Hostel & Bar (Highly rated hostel) – Fun atmosphere with pool. Book here.
2. Mama’s Home (Budget option) – Cozy and friendly vibe. Book here.
3. Mi Amor (Boutique hotel) – Luxury accommodations overlooking the sea. Book here.

What to do in Tulum

• Explore the Tulum Ruins overlooking the sea ($5).
• Swim in the Gran Cenote ($25).
• Relax on the beaches of the Tulum Hotel Zone (Free).
• Visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve ($50 for tours).

Where to eat in Tulum

• Antojitos La Chiapaneca ($) – Authentic tacos. Google Review: 4.7
• Raw Love ($$) – Vegan-friendly bowls and smoothies. Google Review: 4.6
• Hartwood ($$$) – Trendy open-air dining. Google Review: 4.7

Modes of transport in Tulum

• Rent a bike for exploring ($5-$10/day), or use taxis.

Tulum digital nomad rating:

4.5/5

• Pros: Beautiful beaches, trendy coworking spaces.
• Cons: Higher cost of living.

Playa del Carmen Itinerary

Overview

Playa del Carmen offers a lively beach town experience with shopping, dining, and nightlife along the famous Fifth Avenue. It’s a great base for exploring nearby cenotes and Cozumel Island.

How long to stay in Playa del Carmen

1 day

How to get to Playa del Carmen from Tulum

• Take a bus (1 hour; $5).
• Alternatively, book a taxi or shuttle ($30-$50).

Best hotels to stay in Playa del Carmen

1. Hostel 3B (Highly rated hostel) – Great location with rooftop parties. Book here.
2. Hotel Casa de las Flores (Budget option) – Cozy and central. Book here.
3. Mahekal Beach Resort (Boutique hotel) – Beachfront with luxury amenities. Book here.

What to do in Playa del Carmen

• Walk along Fifth Avenue for shopping and dining (Free).
• Take a ferry to Cozumel for snorkeling ($25 round-trip).
• Relax on Playa Mamitas beach (Free).

Where to eat in Playa del Carmen

• El Fogón ($) – Famous tacos al pastor. Google Review: 4.7
• Carboncitos ($$) – Casual Mexican fare. Google Review: 4.6
• Oh Lala! ($$$) – Fine dining experience. Google Review: 4.8

Playa del Carmen digital nomad rating:

4.5/5

• Pros: Vibrant expat scene, good internet.
• Cons: Crowded during peak season.

Cancun Itinerary

Overview

Cancun is a resort destination known for its turquoise waters, luxurious hotels, and lively nightlife. It’s a perfect finale to your Mexico adventure.

How long to stay in Cancun

1 day

How to get to Cancun from Playa del Carmen:

• Take a bus (1-1.5 hours; $10).
• Alternatively, book a shuttle or taxi ($40-$60).

Best hotels to stay in Cancun

1. Nomads Hotel & Rooftop Bar (Highly rated hostel) – Fun social vibe. Book here.
2. Selina Cancun Laguna Hotel Zone (Budget option) – Affordable with a great location. Book here.
3. Casa Blanca Boutique & Organic (Boutique hotel) – Eco-conscious luxury. Book here.

What to do in Cancun

• Relax on Playa Delfines, a public beach (Free).
• Visit the Cancun Underwater Museum ($40-$60 for snorkeling tours).
• Explore the nightlife in the Hotel Zone.

Where to eat in Cancun

• Los de Pescado ($) – Fish tacos. Google Review: 4.6
• Porfirio’s ($$) – Mexican fine dining. Google Review: 4.7
• Puerto Madero ($$$) – Upscale seafood and steak. Google Review: 4.8

Modes of transport in Cancun

• Taxis and buses are common; Uber is not available.

Cancun digital nomad rating:

4/5

• Pros: Easy to navigate, great internet.
• Cons: Resort-heavy atmosphere.