Travel Itinerary – plan a two-week trip to Mexico

Mexico is a sizable nation with several attractions. If you arrange your trip well, going to Mexico may be a very thrilling experience. Cities, mountains, deserts, and beaches on the Pacific Coast and the Yucatan Peninsula can all be sites of interest for you.

In Mexico, there is no shortage of stunning beaches. They are not only located in the two places mentioned. Want to know more about how to have the vacation of your dreams in Mexico? Let’s plan an unforgettable trip to Mexico together!

The following itinerary can be used by first-time travelers to Mexico, solo female travelers, and those traveling in a small group or family.

2 weeks Mexico itinerary

Are you ready for a Mexico adventure?  I spent six weeks in Mexico. During that time, I visited many places, mainly on the Yucatan Peninsula. You are probably wondering how I planned my stay and based on what criteria I chose places to visit. 

Initially, such planning may seem difficult because you are going to an unfamiliar country on a continent that you will visit for the first time. In my case, this was not the case. The Mexican culture, people, history, and ancient Mayan and Aztec structures particularly drew me in.

I grew to love Mexico even more after spending six weeks there. I discovered a lot of spots that ought to be on your travel itinerary. I used a backpack to travel throughout Mexico, which made getting about quite simple. I did feel more flexible when traveling.

I went to major tourist destinations as well as lesser-known hidden gems. 

Will it be possible for you to see all of Mexico in two weeks? Obviously not. It takes much longer and necessitates at least a dozen travels to various locations. 

Read also: Riviera Maya Resorts for sunny, stress free getaway

Best Mexico itinerary for two weeks

It will be a wonderful feast for the senses during your journey to Mexico. Starting with the sense of sight and finishing with the sense of taste. 

What should you include on your Mexico travel itinerary? How should it be prepared, and what format should it take? 

Mexico City is one of my favorite cities in the world. Benito Juárez International Airport is usually the first airport at which tourists arrive. It is where they have their first contact with the country. Cancun is another hotspot that draws thousands of visitors each year. I believe you should begin planning your trip to Mexico in Mexico City. This will help you adapt well to Mexico and be ready to explore other Mexican landmarks.

3 days in Mexico City

Mexico City was built on the ruins of an ancient Aztec city called Tenochtitlan. It is one of the largest and oldest cities in the Americas. Mexico City is worth visiting not only because of its colonial architecture and history but also because of the delicious Mexican cuisine, which you will fall in love with.

Your first points of interest in the capital should be the ruins of the ancient city of Tenochtitlan, Templo Mayor and historic center of Mexico City. 

Check the best hotel options in Mexico City

Mexico City transportation

Your Mexico City itinerary should surely involve public transportation. You can reach everywhere in the capital with this trustworthy and affordable mode of transportation. It’s also important to note that although it occasionally becomes crowded, Mexico City’s public transportation is safe, so it’s a smart idea to be prepared.

When I go to Mexico, I’ve always utilized Uber. Cab drivers are not always trustworthy. They frequently try to extort money from tourists. Uber is completely safe and recommendable.

The majority of the city’s tourism attractions are located in the historic center. It will unquestionably be a great place to stay for a while.

Additionally, there are renowned hotels, cafes, and energetic parks.

From Mexico City to Puerto Vallarta 

One of the most popular travel locations in Mexico is Puerto Vallarta. The city, which is located on the Pacific coast of the state of Jalisco, draws visitors with its fantastic beaches, excellent water activities, and delicious cuisine. The city is ranked among the best beach towns in Mexico. It is important to set aside some time when you first get to the city. After that, you can explore Puerto Vallarta’s beaches. 

In addition, Puerto Vallarta is well-known for its raicilla drink and mariachi music.

How to get from Mexico City to Puerto Vallarta?

876 kilometers separate Mexico City and Puerto Vallarta. Air travel will be the quickest and most practical mode of transportation. It takes roughly two and a half hours to fly. Two airports, Mexico City Santa Lucia and Mexico City Juarez International, offer flights to Puerto Vallarta. They are run by the airlines AeroMexico, Volaris, and VivaAerobus. Tickets are available for as little as $18 USD. 

In order to fully experience Puerto Vallarta and have the greatest possible trip, you should stay there for at least 3 nights. 

Whale watching is popular in Puerto Vallarta. These species’ peak sighting period lasts from December to March. Without a question, it is Mexico’s top location for whale watching. A boat tour will make it a genuine delight to observe whales and humpback whales. It’s interesting that they come to Banderas Bay every year to breed. If you’re fortunate, you might see young whales.

A boat trip to the Islas Marietas will be a fantastic idea. The uninhabited islands will be the perfect location for relaxation. They are also a good location for people who enjoy whale watching, diving, and snorkeling.

Check the best hotel options in Puerto Vallarta

Are you ready for a little adrenaline? You can have an amazing zipline adventure in the middle of a tropical forest in Puerto Vallarta. This is the recipe for an amazing day for adventure seekers. You will experience 11 ziplines with Canopy Zipline. They vary in scenery, length, and speed.

Looking for the best restaurant experience? You’ll find tasteful and authentic tacos in Puerto Vallarta visiting Pancho’s Takos restaurant.

Your itinerary should include at least three days in Puerto Vallarta.

3 days in Merida, Mexico 

Is Merida, Mexico worth visiting? For sure, the city is considered the safest city in Mexico. The capital of the Yucatan Peninsula is a real gem. The city stands out for its post-colonial architecture, beauty, and delicious food. Merida is a must-see on your Mexico bucket list. Below, I will answer your question “why.”

Check out the best accommodations in Merida before you arrive.

It’s interesting to note that few tourists travel to Merida. You have the opportunity to view more because it is not overrun by tourists. In the city, the Mayan culture is still alive. 

You may be wondering how long you should stay in Merida. To visit the city and everything it has to offer, I advise 3 or 4 days. The Yucatan Peninsula’s top historical sights are close by, making the city’s position appealing. Many day trips are taken from Merdida to the aforementioned locations. 

What has made Merida famous? The Catedral de Merida was the first church constructed by the city on the mainland.

What to see in Merida

Merida is full of beautiful places. Many of the most valuable places worth exploring are located along the Paseo de Montejo.  The avenue, more than 3 kilometers long, is full of historic sites, cafes and restaurants. It’s worth it if you take a walking tour along. The well-known route starts from a small park called El Remate and ends at the Monumento a la Patria.

This remarkable monument has beautiful nighttime illumination in a variety of hues. Many tourists take photos of it during the day.

The Hotel Casa Azul is among the most exquisite and excellent hotels in Merida. Tourists frequently take pictures of it because of its vivid light blue facade. I heartily urge you to visit this location.

The 1778-built Parroquia Santa Ana is one of Merida’s most picturesque locations. Santa Ana Park and Mercado, nearby, is where you can relax and get authentic Yucatan food.

Merida Cenotes

Merida has 5 cenotes available to tourists. What is cenote? A cenote, also known as a water-filled cave or sinkhole, is a body of water created when highly porous limestone gradually dissolves, causing an underground rock formation to collapse. 

Freshwater ends up in the sinkhole where it accumulates, generating pools and streams that can occasionally even link to underground rivers when the collapse is deep enough to touch an aquifer.

Ka’ Kutsal, Cenote de Mitza, Huul Kiin, Chen Keke, Cenote Noc Ac, Xlacah, and Hol Ha are among the cenotes in Merida and the surrounding areas that can be visited.

7 day itinerary for the Riviera Maya

Discover one of Mexico and the Caribbean’s most stunning areas by traveling to the Riviera Maya, which has stunning beaches, idyllic islands, and outstanding natural and archaeological monuments.

Plan your trip efficiently with a ‘7 day itinerary for the Riviera Maya’. 

Valladolid (2 days)

You will visit the well-known Chichen Itza city in the morning, which is a must-see for a 7-day road trip in Yucatan!

It is a true representation of Mayan civilization and a symbol of Mexico. It is a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of the Seven New Wonders of the World.

The main pyramid of Chichen Itza, El Castillo, the astronomical observatory, the Mayan pelota game, the temple of the warriors, and much more can all be visited in 2h30-3h.

After the tour, have a refreshing swim in the magnificent Cenote Zaci in the heart of Valladolid.

There is a local restaurant serving food directly on top of the cenote if it is time for lunch. The cenote is free if you spend 100 pesos on food!

Spend the afternoon seeing Valladolid, a stunning colonial city, beginning in its central square where Francisco Canton Park and San Servacio Church are located.

The San Bernardino Convent is where you can arrive after walking along the Calzada de los Frailes.

Typical neighborhoods, squares, cafes, and restaurants are also numerous. It’s a great city for a stroll around! Check the best hotels in Valladolid here!

2nd day – Ek Balam et Rio Lagartos

The week-long Yucatan road adventure continues in the direction of Ek Balam, or “the black jaguar” in Maya.

Much less well-known than Chichen Itza, which you can also visit in a week in Yucatan, it is an amazing Mayan metropolis nestled in the jungle.

Along with the Mayan arch, oval palace, twin pyramids, stelae platform, and ball field, you will be able to go to the top of the Acropolis, which is regarded as one of Mesoamerica’s most significant buildings.

Take the Rio Lagartos route to reach Las Coloradas, the renowned pink lakes of the Yucatan, after spending 1h30–2h there.

Actually, 500,000 tons of salt are harvested annually from these salt marshes.

You can also take a boat ride to the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve if you’re there between January and September to observe the sizable flamingo populations there.

Cancun itinerary ( 2 days)

1st day 

Leave Valladolid this morning and return to Cancun along the Riviera Maya.

To have pleasure in your day in Cancun, you can:

• Unwind on Tortugas, Los Delfines, Playa Langosta, Playa Linda, Playa Caracol, and Playa Marlin’s stunning beaches
• Visit the Mayan Museum or El Rey, an ancient location nearby Playa Delfines.
• Kiteboarding Isla Blanca
• You can reserve a diving tour at MUSA, the world’s largest underwater museum, whether you want to snorkel or dive there
• Shop for mementos at Mercado 28

I suggest going to Xoximilco Cancun in the evening to take in a Mexican carnival.

It’s a three-hour boat excursion with Mexican food, an open bar of tequila, beer, and soft drinks, as well as mariachi music!

You can also visit the legendary Coco Bongo Club, Mexico’s largest nightclub, City Night Club, or another location on Avenida Kukulkan.

Spend a night in Cancun. 

2nd day – Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres

On your final day in Yucatan, I recommend that you visit Isla Contoy, a paradisiacal island that not many people are aware of, before visiting Isla Mujeres.

Contoy, a 9 km2 protected island, serves as a crucial haven for wildlife and a turtle nesting area.

It is necessary to take a guided tour to get there, and I highly advise doing it in advance because there are only 200 people allowed in per day.

Travelers find it distinctive because of its exclusivity, but more significantly, it is well conserved because of this.

You are transported to the harbor to board the boat by the pick-up tour from your Cancun hotel.

2 days in Tulum 

Travel south down the Riviera Maya to Tulum for this new leg of your one-week Yucatan road adventure.

Along with being the epicenter of boho chic in Mexico, this region is also home to numerous Mayan cenotes and lengthy, white-sand beaches that are well-known nationwide.

Day 1: Today, explore Tulum at its best.

Visit the archaeological site of Tulum, which is located on the coast of the Caribbean Sea, to start the day.

The ancient city of Tulum (6th–15th century) served as a significant stopover for land and sea trade in the Mayan civilization because of its advantageous location.

What to do in Tulum

In one and a half to two hours, you can, for instance, explore the wall and watchtowers, the Castillo, which served as a marker for navigators, the temples of the Frescoes and of the Descending God, and then descend to the site’s little beach.

After that, you can cool off in one of the local cenotes, which are well-known freshwater sinkholes that the ancient Mayans revered.

Take a stroll among the beautiful shops, cafes, and restaurants along the Tulum Beach Strip during your lunch break.

You can already access Playa Paraiso and Playa Las Palmas by walking along the narrow road that runs beside Tulum’s beaches.

You may easily locate a bar in the evening with a pleasant ambiance and that is affordable at Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar, Casa Jaguar, Papaya Playa Project, Gitano, etc.

Sleep in Tulum one night

2nd day Sian Ka’an Reserve

The Sian Ka’an Reserve is a must-see during a week-long visit to Yucatan because it has been designated a Biosphere Reserve, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Ramsar site!

Between the jungle and the beach, it spans a huge area that is only partially accessible to the general public, making it impossible to see all in a single day.

Only one of the two access points must be selected:

In the fishing community of Punta Allen, you can take a boat ride to see dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife as well as explore the coast of Sian Ka’an and its lovely beach.

Since the trip requires a 4×4 vehicle and takes the entire day, I highly suggest scheduling an expedition from Tulum:

You can observe the jungle with its marshes, freshwater lagoons, and Mayan ruins thanks to Muyil. Unlike at Punta Allen, we are not actually in the center of the reserve, but it is still a lovely experience!

The benefit is that it’s simple to get to, so you can visit in a half-day. It is even possible to travel there from Tulum by taking the ADO bus in the direction of Chunyaxché (20 min).

If you have time, you can explore Laguna Kaan Luum, Boca Paila, or return to Tulum to continue enjoying the beach after visiting Sian Ka’an.

Sleep in Tulum one night

1-2 days in Playa del Carmen 

Playa del Carmen has a variety of attractions and things to see. You don’t have much time, therefore I advise you to pick one of the following options: 

Choice 1: Unwind at Playa del Carmen (1 day)

Want to go about and take in the sunshine? One can:

• Travel along the expansive Quinta Avenida, which is dotted with bars, eateries, and shops.
• Playa Mamitas, Playacar, or Punta Esmeralda are some beaches in Playa del Carmen where you may unwind.

• Along with going to the free performances, visit the Parque de los Fundadores to take pictures of the Portal Maya statue and the vibrant lettering spelling out Playa del Carmen. There is a public beach as well.

• Dive into a cenote with chilly water, such as Cenote Azul. The Cenote Cristalino and Cenote Jardin del Eden are right next door.

• Visit the 3D Museum of Wonders or the Frida Kahlo Museum (particularly if you’re traveling with kids!)

Check the best hotels in Playa del Carmen

Option 2: Visit Xcaret Park for the day (1 day)

A sizable theme park with ecological, historical, and cultural elements is called Xcaret.

It has been named the Best Theme and Water Park in the World for the Fifth Year in a Row!

There are about 50 family-friendly activities that let you enjoy the beach, the rainforest, the cenotes, and the underground rivers while also learning about Mayan culture.

It is Mexico. A must-see performance features 300 artists who showcase the history, culture, and mythology of Mexico on stage. It is opulent!

Third choice: diving in Cozumel (1 day)

One of Mexico’s largest islands is Cozumel.

It is regarded as one of the top locations in the world for snorkeling and diving!

Cozumel offers a wealth of attractions, including Punta Sur, Chankanaab Park, numerous beaches, El Cielo, Playa Mia, and the San Gervasio Mayan ruins.

If you just have one day to spare, concentrate on the area’s top diving locations!

This Cozumel trip picks you up at your hotel and brings you to snorkel at El Cielo and Palancar Reef.

One of Cozumel’s most picturesque locations, with crystal-clear water that makes it possible to witness a plethora of starfish.

Playa del Carmen makes it simple to travel to Cozumel. The ferry will take you there in 30 minutes if you decide not to take the tour, which includes transportation.

Option 4: A trip to Rio Secreto (1 day)

One of the best excursions in the Riviera Maya is at Rio Secreto!

You can take a guided tour to discover a river that is 25 meters below ground and has amazing crystal clear water and walls covered in stalactites and stalagmites.

Visits are made in small groups, only with reservations, which allows you to have a privileged contact with nature.

Rio Secreto’s tour lasts for three to three and a half hours, so you will have time to enjoy the remainder of the day. One can:

• go back to Playa del Carmen

• enjoy the stunning Xpu-Ha beach and the Cenote Azul.

Stay overnight in Playa del Carmen.

Conclusion  

You’re probably thinking that organizing a two week trip to Mexico is complicated. Nothing could be further from the truth! Thanks to my blog post ‘Travel Itinerary – Plan a two-week trip to Mexico’, planning your trip can be shortened by more than 95%.

Why should you visit Mexico? Mexico has a wide variety of scenery, some of which are spectacular.

When you travel to Mexico, you can experience everything from the desert to the Caribbean’s crystal-clear waters, from canyons and volcanoes to the tropical jungle, from waterfalls and cenotes to miles of cacti, or from Mayan temples to colonial cities.

Are you looking for an exciting trip, a quiet getaway, or both? You will discover happiness in Mexico!

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