Mexico is so much more than just Cancún and its all-inclusive resorts. This is a country that blends a wonderfully dense history with culture and nature. Ready to hear about 10 new places that will redefine how you see Mexico and make you want to pack your bags right now? 

1. San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas

• General vibe: Quaint cobbled streets, highly colourful buildings, and fresh mountain air.
• This charming little town in southern Mexico is the perfect base for those who want to hike through the jungles and highlands of Chiapas. There are some waterfalls nearby – like El Chiflón – or you can venture to Sumidero Canyon instead, for some views that feel like something straight out of Jurassic Park. The town itself is full of coffee shops, artisanal crafts, and live music, so a great place to chill out or shop for authentic souvenirs. 

2. Guanajuato

• General vibe: Romantic and artsy, like a little piece of Europe in the heart of Mexico.
• Nestled in a valley, Guanajuato is a city filled with (surprise, surprise) more colourful houses speckled down the mountainsides. Its narrow, winding alleys will lead you to hidden plazas, lively street musicians, and some of the most Instagrammable photo spots. Don’t miss the Callejón del Beso (‘Alley of the Kiss’) or a ride on the funicular for gorgeous city views. If you happen to go in October, you might see the annual Festival Cervantino, a huge arts festival that the city is quite well known for! 

3. Holbox Island, Quintana Roo

• General vibe: Tropical paradise (but with fewer crowds).
• Very similar to Cancún, but without the mega-resorts and busy beaches! Holbox Island feels like a well-kept secret. There are no cars here; locals get around by bike or golf cart. From June to September, you can even swim with whale sharks here. Great place to unplug and relax.

4. Puebla 

• General vibe: Colonial elegance meets a foodie’s dream. 
• Puebla is only a couple of hours from Mexico City but has a totally different feel. Known for its Baroque architecture and Talavera pottery, Puebla’s streets are filled with history. The food scene here is great as well—try chiles en nogada (a traditional stuffed pepper dish) or mole poblano, a local chocolate-chilli sauce. And there’s also Popocatépetl, a nearby active volcano with great views! 

5. Bacalar, Quintana Roo

• General vibe: Laid-back, lake-life paradise.
• Known as the “Lake of Seven Colors,” Bacalar is a huge lagoon with water that shifts from turquoise to deep blue, depending on the sunlight. It’s way less crowded than the nearby beaches, and it’s perfect for kayaking, swimming, or just lounging. You’ll also find the Cenote Azul nearby—a massive freshwater sinkhole that’s great for snorkelling and diving. Bacalar has a super chill vibe, ideal for anyone wanting to relax in nature.

6. Hierve el Agua, Oaxaca

• General vibe: Laid-back and scenic.
• Hierve el Agua is a striking natural formation that looks like a “frozen” waterfall, created by mineral deposits over thousands of years. You can hike around the formation or take a dip in its mineral-rich pools, all with sweeping mountain views. It’s close to Oaxaca City, so you can easily explore the region’s renowned food and mezcal culture. To get the best experience, consider visiting early, as weekends can draw crowds.

7. Real de Catorce, San Luis Potosí

• General vibe: Ghost town with a bohemian twist.
• This once-thriving mining town is now a ghost town nestled in the mountains. It’s said to have a very quiet, almost otherworldly atmosphere. Visitors come to soak in the desert’s mystic energy, explore historic ruins, or ride horses along scenic trails. If you’re there in October, you can join the local pilgrimage to the old church—a unique cultural experience. Ideal for photographers, history lovers, and those with a taste for peaceful adventure. 

8. Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California

• General vibe: Mexico’s easygoing wine region.
• Valle de Guadalupe is known for its wineries, vineyards, and gourmet food scene. Spend a day tasting wines and finish with a fresh seafood dinner at an outdoor restaurant. While relatively quiet, it’s growing in popularity, so you’ll find high-quality wine and dining without Napa’s high prices. It’s easiest to get around with a car, as the area is spread out, with some roads that are still unpaved.

9. Sayulita, Nayarit

• General vibe: Relaxed beach town with surfer vibes.
• Sayulita is a small, colourful surf town full of character. It’s a great place to learn to surf, try yoga, or buy some local art and handmade goods. The town has plenty of cosy cafes, beach bars, and boutiques, and you can also find nearby waterfalls and jungle hikes for a bit of adventure. Sayulita has a lively, welcoming community with a mix of travellers and locals.

10. Copper Canyon, Chihuahua

• General vibe: Like the Grand Canyon, but bigger and more rugged.
• Copper Canyon is actually a series of six canyons, larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon. The famous El Chepe train runs through the mountains, offering spectacular views of cliffs, forests, and valleys. Adventurous visitors can hike, horseback ride, or even zip-line through sections of the canyon. It’s a remote and rugged spot, perfect for a memorable experience.

So, as you can see, Mexico has waaay more to offer than just the popular beach destinations! It has a truly diverse culture and landscape to discover. Whether you’re after mountains, deserts, beaches, or historic cities, there seems to be a spot for everyone. Next time you’re thinking of a trip to Mexico, you don’t have to go to Cancún; just make sure to keep safety in mind and don’t wander off by yourself – when in doubt, get a tour guide. Enjoy Mexico! 

Starting from Skratch? Here are some links to help you get started:

• Complete Guide to Mexico | Lonely Planet 
• Places to Visit in Mexico | Rough Guides
• Mexico Travel Guide | The Independent
• ‍Mexico Guide | The Times