10 Safest Vacation Destinations In Mexico (5 Not Worth Considering) (2023)

Mexico is home to some of the most beautiful vacation destinations in the world! From crystal clear beaches and delicious foods to historic monuments and Spanish colonial architecture, the attractions will simply blow your mind.

While there is much to see and do in Mexico, it is important to know that not everywhere you go will be suitable for tourists. Resorts and specific cities offer tourists some peace of mind, such as Mexico City, Oaxaca, and Cholula. However, be wary of the many places one must not venture to.

Due to the influx of illegal activities taking place in Mexico, travelers are expected to do a little digging when it comes to certain restrictions in a handful of dangerous cities. While this can all be a scary thing to think about, we've got you covered! Here are 10 of the safest vacation spots in Mexico, and 5 you should avoid at all costs.

15 Mexico City - Roam Around Freely

Mexico City is one of the biggest North American cities in the world, with a population of over 20 million people. Despite the chaotic and busy feel to the city, it remains one of the safest cities in Mexico to vacation to and currently has no travel restrictions whatsoever, so roam around and enjoy all of what Mexico City has to offer without a worry in the world.

14 Mérida - Trade In The Poolside For Freshwater Cenotes

Mérida is home to some of the most beautiful cenotes in the world! These cave-like structures filled with crystalline freshwaterare a must-see when visiting Mexico, and are definitely worth trading in the ocean for. It is a wonderful nearby alternative to busy places like Cancun and offers tourists ease of mind knowing you are always safe and sound.

13 Puebla - Perfect Fix For Thrill Seekers

Next up is none other than the city of Puebla! While a relaxing trip to the beach always does the soul good, Puebla is a must-see spot for any thrill-seekers out there. Not only are there countless ruins, pyramids and sights to see, but Puebla is also home to a 680-meter long cable car and an 80-meter high Ferris wheel that will make your trip one to remember.

12 Tulum - Chilled Out & Laid Back Vibe

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This pre-Colombian Mayan city is home to some of the best resorts and stunning beachside views that will make your trip to Mexico an unforgettable one. Tulum is a much safer alternative to Playa Del Carmen and offers a more chilled out, relaxed and rustic vibe than bigger resorts cities.

11 San Miguel De Allende - Safe City Be It Day Or Night

While you can find rich culture, yummy food and stunning views just about everywhere in Mexico, you are bound to have a blast visiting the safe city of San Miguel de Allende. Not only can you enjoy the colourful streets, but you can do so knowing that you are safe both during the day and at night!

Related: This Beach In Mexico Puts All Other Beaches To Shame

10 Oaxaca City - The Best Mezcal In The Country

Like many of the best cities in Mexico, Oaxaca City is a must-see! According toCulture Trip, Oaxaca City is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is complete with stunning cobblestone streets, parks filled with cacti, brightly colored buildings, and colonial architecture that will make any photographer's dream come true.

9 Bacalar - Stunning Crystalline Freshwater Lakes

If all-inclusive resorts or busy cities really is not your thing, then don't fret, because we've got you covered! Bacalar is yet another incredible Mexican city that will simply take your breath away. The city offers freshwater lakes that are crystal clear and is a great escape away from the hustle and bustle of more major cities.

8 Campeche - Perfect Romantic Getaway

If you and that special someone are looking for a safe spot to venture around in Mexico, then look no further, because Campeche has got it all. This romantic getaway destination is perfect for your honeymoon, anniversary, or summer vacation that you have been meaning to take. The city is full of history, delicious restaurants and preserved fortifications surrounded by guards day and night.

Related: 20 Surprising Flattering Facts About Mexico

7 Todos Santos - Nicknamed 'All Saints' For A Reason

Todos Santos, Mexico, which translates to 'All Saints,' is a city that definitely lives up to its name. It is home to long, gorgeous beaches with waves worth surfing on and it is all a refreshing distance away from tourists and crowds, which can feel very chaotic at times, especially if all you are looking for is to relax.

6 Cholula - Ruins Worth Topping Your Bucket List

While the Great Pyramids of Giza are on everyone's bucket lists, Science Alertwants you to know that a pyramid four times its size, and thus, the largest monument ever in the New World is actually in Cholula, Mexico. Cholula offers tourists some of the most breathtaking views of the Spanish colonial architecture and history the city has to offer and is one that you should definitely add to that list of yours.

5 Sinaloa - Hotspot For Cartel Activity

Sinaloa, Mexico has been a hotspot for cartel activity for as long as we can remember. While we'd love to say Mexico is safe, there are certain areas that are meant to be avoided by tourists, such as Sinaloa. If you are a fan of television shows such as "Narcos" or "Queen of the South," then you know all there is to know about Sinaloa.

4 Tamaulipas - Level 4: "Do Not Travel"

In addition to Sinaloa being off-limits, Tamaulipas should also not appear anywhere near your travel list. There is currently a Level 4 "do not travel" advisory for U.S. and Canadian citizens, and should be voided at all costs. Believe it or not, but Tamaulipas is one of the five now-notorious states in Mexico for which the U.S. State Department issues its highest warning, says the BBC.

Related: Is Guadalajara Safe? 15 Vacation Spots In Mexico That Are (5 To Avoid)

3 Chihuahua - Widespread Illicit Activity

Much like cartel cities such as Sinaloa and Tamaulipas, Chihuahua is also a city that you should avoid at all costs. If the name itself isn't a warning enough, considering how loud and obnoxious Chihuahua dogs can be, the fact that the city has become one of the biggest in Mexico for illicit activities ought to scare you away.

2 Jalisco - Wrong Place At The Wrong Time

Jalisco is a place you do not want to get caught up in! While you might be inclined to travel to Jalisco, which is home to the ever so famous city of Guadalajara, you might want to think twice, considering the city is known for the harming of extortion targets and new cartels taking place at every possible corner.

1 Michoacán - Not Suitable For Tourists

Mexico is certainly home to some of the most beautiful vacation destinations in the world, however, if you are planning a trip over to Mexico, perhaps keep Michoacán off the list for now. The city has several travel restrictions, making it unsuitable for tourists at the moment due to the influx of cartel activity.

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