Why Fly to Mexico
Mexico punches well above its weight as a travel destination. You get ancient ruins, colonial architecture, world-class beaches, and some of the best food on the planet — all at prices that won't wreck your budget. Whether you're wandering the historic streets of Oaxaca, diving in the cenotes of the Yucatán, or eating tacos at 2am in Mexico City, the country has a way of getting under your skin fast. It's big, it's diverse, and no single trip covers it all.
The top draws are Mexico City, Oaxaca, the Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, and the colonial city of Guadalajara. Each feels like a different country. Mexico City alone could occupy a week — museums, markets, neighbourhoods, and a restaurant scene that rivals anywhere in the world. Pair that with the Caribbean coastline or the highlands of Chiapas and you have a trip that's hard to beat.
Best Time to Visit Mexico
Mexico's size means weather varies enormously by region. As a general rule, November through April is the sweet spot for most destinations. The dry season keeps rain away, temperatures are comfortable, and the Caribbean and Pacific coasts are at their best. December and January are peak season — expect higher prices and busy beaches, especially in Cancún and Los Cabos.
May through October is the rainy season and also hurricane season on both coasts. The Gulf and Caribbean side takes the worst of it. That said, rain usually comes in short afternoon bursts rather than all-day downpours, and prices drop significantly. Mexico City and the central highlands are actually lovely year-round since altitude keeps temperatures mild. If you're heading inland, shoulder season (October or late April) offers the best of both worlds.
Getting Around Mexico
Mexico is large, so domestic flights are your friend for covering ground quickly. Aeromexico, Volaris, and VivaAerobus connect major cities affordably — a flight from Mexico City to Cancún or Oaxaca can cost under $50 USD if booked ahead. For shorter distances, first-class buses (ADO is the main operator) are safe, comfortable, and surprisingly good value. Mexico has no long-distance passenger rail network worth planning a trip around, so buses and planes do the heavy lifting between cities.
Within cities, Uber works reliably in Mexico City, Guadalajara, Cancún, and most major urban areas — it's generally safer and cheaper than hailing a street taxi. The Mexico City Metro is cheap and efficient, though crowded at rush hour. In beach destinations like Tulum or the Riviera Maya, renting a car or scooter gives you the most flexibility.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and all EU/EEA countries do not need a visa to enter Mexico as tourists. You can stay up to 180 days. On arrival, you'll receive a passport stamp or tourist card — keep it safe, as you'll surrender it when you leave. Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your stay; the Mexican Embassy recommends at least 180 days of remaining validity. Visas are not issued at ports of entry, so if you do need one, sort it before you travel. US-bound travelers connecting through America should check ESTA requirements separately.
Money & Budget
Mexico's currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas — use bank ATMs where possible and decline dynamic currency conversion. Cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist zones, but carry cash for markets, street food, and rural areas. Budget travelers can get by on $40–60 USD per day covering a hostel bed, street food, and local transport. Mid-range sits around $80–150 USD per day with a private hotel room and sit-down meals. Luxury travel — think boutique hotels in Oaxaca or all-inclusive resorts in Los Cabos — starts at $250 USD per day and climbs quickly.
Top Cities to Visit in Mexico
- Mexico City: A sprawling, endlessly fascinating capital with world-class museums, incredible food, and neighbourhoods like Roma and Condesa that rival any city in Latin America.
- Oaxaca: The cultural and culinary heart of Mexico — mezcal, mole, Indigenous markets, and proximity to the ruins of Monte Albán make this a must.
- Cancún & the Riviera Maya: The Caribbean coastline here is genuinely stunning; go beyond the hotel zone to find Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and the cenotes inland.
- Guadalajara: Mexico's second city and the home of tequila, mariachi, and a thriving food and art scene that most tourists overlook.
- San Cristóbal de las Casas: A cool, cobblestoned highland town in Chiapas with a strong Indigenous culture and easy access to jungle and waterfalls.
- Los Cabos: Where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez — dramatic desert landscapes, sport fishing, and high-end resorts at the tip of Baja California.
FAQ — Flights to Mexico
Which airports in Mexico receive the most international flights?
Mexico City's Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) is the main hub and handles the most international traffic. Cancún (CUN) is the second busiest, particularly for flights from Europe and the US. Los Cabos (SJD), Guadalajara (GDL), and Puerto Vallarta (PVR) also have strong international connections, especially from North America.
How far in advance should I book flights to Mexico?
For peak season travel (December through February), book at least 2–3 months ahead, especially for transatlantic flights. Shoulder season offers more flexibility, but booking 4–6 weeks out typically gets you decent fares. Last-minute deals do appear but are harder to find on popular routes from Europe.
Do I need any vaccinations before flying to Mexico?
No vaccinations are legally required to enter Mexico. However, most travel health advisors recommend being up to date on Hepatitis A and Typhoid, particularly if you plan to eat street food or travel off the beaten path. Check with your doctor or a travel health clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure for the latest recommendations.