Mexico’s tropical beach retreat of Xcalak, with its picturesque beaches and turquoise waters, is one of the country’s undiscovered gems. Here you can relax on paradise beaches as your senses experience pure serenity.
Xcalak, in North-Central Mexico, offers some incredible natural hidden gems like Canon del Sumidero and Huasteca Potosina for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts to discover. These North-Central Mexican hotspots make for ideal hiking and wildlife viewing spots. And you can always enjoy some fantastic Mexico water parks, besides everything highlighted in the following paragraphs.
1. Tecolutla
Tecolutla, Mexico’s Gulf region jewel, offers beach lovers a dream destination. Offering unparalleled beauty and serenity with stunning shorelines and turquoise waters that reach out to meet them, Tecolutla makes for the ideal coastal escape.
Relax on the sandy shores while basking in the sunshine or take a boat tour along the estuary to observe local flora and fauna. Additionally, this town boasts an impressive history – visit one of many historic sites such as Church of Saint Miguel Arcangel dating back to the 18th century!
Atlixco is one of the best places in Mexico for nature lovers, boasting colorful streets and lively flower markets set against the magnificent Popocatepetl volcano. Visitors to Atlixco can indulge in hiking activities or discover its local artisans shops – there’s always something exciting going on here!
2. Izamal
Izamal in Yucatan is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets, known as the Yellow City for its vibrant culture and architecture which includes Mayan ruins as well as unique colonial designs.
Izamal’s city center is a delight to explore on foot or with one of its horse-drawn carriages (known as calesas) plying its streets. Home to four pyramids – including Piramide de Kinich Kak Moo, dedicated to Sun God – it offers visitors unparalleled panoramic views. Don’t be intimidated by other Mayan ruins in Izamal; take time out to climb this one for incredible panoramic vistas over Izamal!
Convento di San Antonio de Padua stands out as the crowning achievement in this city, featuring its 16th-century Atrium which ranks second largest closed atrium worldwide (second only to St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City). History enthusiasts shouldn’t miss this gem!
3. Lagunas de Montebello National Park
Mexico’s hidden gems range from relaxing beaches to unexplored wilderness rich with biodiversity, inviting travellers to embrace tranquillity and make lasting connections. Beyond the familiar tourist trail lies an expansive realm of undiscovered natural marvels and charming villages offering travellers an authentic taste of Mexico’s true essence.
These lesser-known treasures from magnificent pyramids to charming pueblos provide an unforgettable experience. From Bacalar Lagoon’s serenity to Guanajuato City’s winding alleyways, these hidden gems will capture both your heart and imagination!
Lagunas de Montebello National Park is one of Mexico’s lesser-known treasures, located in Chiapas’ southern region. Boasting an awe-inspiring collection of 59 lakes ranging from deep blue to vibrant turquoise hues – known collectively as “The Lakes of Colors”, each lake offers something special in terms of beauty and spectacle.
4. Valladolid
Valladolid is located just two hours from Tulum and Cancun, making it an ideal base for discovering many hidden treasures of Mexico. As one of the safest destinations in Yucatan, it features spectacular ruins, cenotes, and other attractions. The main town square provides a charming place for exploring its stunning buildings; church is stunning; convent offers unique architecture; while main town square boasts charming town square cafes and more!
Valladolid’s Mercado Municipal is one of the city’s top destinations for foodies to experience delicious cuisine first-hand. Boasting over thirty stalls selling everything from tacos and tortillas, arriving early can ensure you find your selection of freshly prepared food products.
Ek Balam Mayan Ruins are truly incredible; its main pyramid towers above Chichen Itza! For an exciting day trip experience, Valladolid tours offer tours that visit this site.
5. Taxco
Mexico is famous for its silver, and cities built around this precious commodity such as Taxco, Zacatecas and Guanajuato have long been associated with it. They preserve classic old town centers with leafy plazas that remain distinct from larger urban centers in terms of life styles and local traditions that may otherwise disappear in larger metropolitan centers.
Taxco’s Santa Prisca Cathedral stands out as an amazing landmark built by silver baron Jose de la Borda in the eighteenth century. Its brilliant apricot-peach colored stones shimmer in sunlight while intricate carvings seem alive with movement.
Taxco offers an eclectic blend of historic and modern buildings housing restaurants and shops. Most streets feature small squares like Banda Square where locals and visitors alike relax on its wrought iron benches while taking in its unhurried vibe. Don’t miss visiting Museo de Arte Virreynal either; its exhibits show off Taxco’s rich history!
6. Guanajuato City
Guanajuato offers stunning Spanish colonial architecture to explore on foot or by taking photos, making it one of Mexico’s top cities for both travelers and locals. It is sure to captivate.
Instagrammers love taking photos along the main walkway of any city to showcase the iconic bridge and colorful buildings nearby. Be sure to stop at Santo Cafe for the ultimate people-watching experience and avoid long waits at their balcony shots by getting there as soon as they open!
Museo de las Momias should also be on your itinerary, providing an interesting yet macabre glimpse of mummification processes occurring naturally throughout Guanajuato. Plus, its history comes alive here too – grave taxes were once mandatory or graves would get dug up and dusted off!
