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Best Mexico Ruins: Ultimate Guide to 20+ Ruins in Mexico

Best Mexico Ruins - Mayan Ruins - Aztec Ruins

Nestled in the jungles of Mesoamerica, the rediscovered ruins of Maya, Aztec and Zapotec cities stand as monuments to the power and knowledge of these ancient civilizations.  How many of the best Mexico ruins have you visited, and which are on your bucket list?

If you’re like me, ruins check off an important part of your travel diet.  Only one destination has sated my appetite for crumbling ancient ruins: Angkor Wat.  After three days there, the more than 1,000 ruins of  the Angkor complex led me to declare I was “templed out.”  I didn’t see them all by any stretch of the imagination, but it felt like I had!

In contrast, the best Mexico ruins dot the landscape throughout the country.  This makes it easier to add them on to other itineraries including Mexico’s stunning beaches, colorful colonial cities, and natural landscapes.  Some of these ruins are difficult to get to, but I’ve got tips to help with that.

In this guide, I’ll share information on the top archaeological sites in Mexico: their history, highlights, and reasons for visiting, as well as information for getting there including the best Mexico ruins tours.  So whether you’re looking for day trips from Cancun or Mexico City, or planning a ruins road trip, this guide will help you explore all the best ruins in Mexico.

Throughout the guide, I’ll also share virtual tours and multimedia experiences for exploring the best ruins in Mexico from home! Be sure to check out all of my Mexico travel tips and my guide to the best Mayan ruins near Cancun .

In this Guide to Ancient Ruins in Mexico:

Quintana Roo Ruins | Yucatan Ruins | Campeche Ruins | Chiapas Ruins | Oaxaca Ruins | Mexico City & Central Mexico Ruins | Other Central America Ruins

Mexico Must-See Ruins: Add Some History to Your Vacation

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Mexico Archaeological Sites Map

To go along with this guide, I’ve made a map of Central America archaeological sites, including the best ruins in Mexico color-coded by state. Click on each icon to open a photo and location of the site. Or click on the top left arrow for the full list.

Mexico Ruins Vocabulary

“Wow” other ruin explorers when you roll up already knowing these archaeology terms:

Ball Courts: these focal points of Mesoamerican cities are rectangular playfields with sloping walls on the two longest sides.  Found in cultures throughout the region, ballgames were played for religious, social and political reasons.

Stelae : (singular – stele) tall wood or stone slabs with carved or sculpted surfaces.  At Maya sites, these are usually made from stone and commemorate events or explain the function of the building they mark.

Cenotes: water-filled sinkholes formed when limestone bedrock collapses.  Some are open pools, and others are caverns.  Nowadays they’re great swimming holes; but the Maya made offerings to the gods at cenotes, believing that they were portals to the underworld.

Sacbeob : (singular – sacbe) roughly translated to “white way,” sacbeob are raised, limestone stucco-paved roads built by the Maya that connect temples and structures within ceremonial centers.  A few connect to other communities in the region.

ⓘ Ancient Mesoamerican Ballgame Learn more about the ancient ballgame with a Google Arts & Culture feature on the ballcourts of Chichen Itza .

Best Mexico Ruins in Quintana Roo State

The Maya ruins in Mexico’s state of Quintana Roo are a must-see if you’re visiting the region. Well-run tours with English-speaking guides are plentiful, which makes seeing the ruins here easy.  In particular, check out Coba where you can climb the main temple, and Tulum for its spectacular seaside setting. 

Tulum Mayan Ruins - things to do in Tulum

Tulum Ruins | Iconic Maya Seaside Ruins

The Maya ruins at Tulum are iconic: perched at the edge of a high cliff, with sweeping views of the turquoise Caribbean waters and white sands below.  Tulum was one of the last cities built and lived in by the Maya, dating to 1200 – 1450 CE, although the area was inhabited earlier.  It served as a center of trade, where both sea and land trade routes converged.  

Tulum was walled on three sides, with the fourth protected by the sea cliff; in fact, Tulum means “wall.”  The original name of the city might have been “Zamas” meaning dawn, since it faces east and sunrises here are certainly stunning! Surviving ceremonial buildings at Tulum include the main temple overlooking the sea, called El Castillo, and several others including one with frescoes inside.

Tulum is a must-see Mexico ruins site, because of its dramatic location and sweeping views.  You can also swim on the private beach, accessible by a long staircase from the cliff, and relax with the enormous resident iguanas. 

Visit Tulum on a day trip from Cancun.  Or to avoid the crowds, stay in Tulum or Akumal and go early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid tourist buses.  Be sure to bring a bathing suit, towel, sunscreen and hat (there’s little shade, and the white sacbeob paths reflect a ton of light!).  Bring cash to pay. 

Getting to the Tulum Ruins

Check out my Tulum guides for all the info you need on planning a trip: I’ve got handy tips for visiting on a budget or advice on the best beachfront hotels . Or if you’ll day trip from Cancun, here’s a good option that includes the Tulum ruins and Dos Ojos cenote or one for Tulum, Coba and a cenote .

Website | Hours 8AM – 5PM | Cost: 80 pesos; extra for parking and the train to the entrance

Facilities: Restrooms | Find a hotel in Tulum or Cancun or get my expert tips on Tulum hotels or Tulum Airbnbs

Can you climb the ruins: No | Can you hire a guide onsite: Yes

Best Mexico Ruins - Mayan Ruins of Coba

Coba Maya Ruins

Coba is one of the first ancient Mexico ruins I visited, and it’s still a favorite.  Exploring its jungle setting and sprawling complex gives you serious Indiana Jones vibes.  Coba sat at the nexus of the largest network of sacbeob in the Maya world, which connected structures within Coba as well as neighboring cities.  The name Coba in Mayan means “waters stirred by the wind,” perhaps due to its place on two large lagoons.

Coba was estimated to have more than 50,000 residents at its peak.  It flourished between 600-900 CE, and was abandoned around the time of the Spanish colonization.  Like all Maya sites, the reason is unknown; although leading theories are drought, disease, overpopulation and destruction of the environment due to overfarming. It’s likely that a combination of factors led to the Maya downfall.

Coba is notable for several reasons.  First, it has a large number of surviving stelae with images and Maya hieroglyphic writing, which give insight into important aspects of Mayan rituals, politics, and history.  Women are depicted in positions of power in some of the stelae scenes.  Also, the largest temple of Coba, Nohoch Mul, can be climbed: it’s 137 feet high (42m), with expansive views over the jungle.  

How to Get To the Coba Mayan Ruins

Coba is only about 45 minutes from Tulum, and can be combined with cenotes in the area like Choo-Ha.  The site is large, so it’s easiest to get around by bike which can be rented there.  Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes ( I love these! ), bug spray and a hat, as well as a bathing suit and towel if you plan to visit cenotes. Bring cash to pay. 

Tours: here’s a good tour from Cancun to Coba and Tulum , a tour that includes snorkeling , or a Coba sunset tour .

Website | Hours 8AM – 5PM | Cost: 80 pesos; extra for parking and bicycle rental

Facilities: Restrooms, restaurants, limited hotels | Find a hotel

ⓘ Mayas vs. Mayan: which is correct? For English speakers, this is especially confusing. The word Maya can be both a noun or an adjective, and singular or plural! (Examples: “She is Maya,” “They are Maya,” “Maya ruins,” “Maya culture.”) Today’s native speakers of Maya in the Yucatán Peninsula also refer to their language as Maya. In contrast, scholars refer to the family of languages spoken by Maya people as Mayan. (You might note that I have used “Mayan” incorrectly in this article a few times since Google prefers that term!)

Best Mexico Ruins - Mayan Ruins of Muyil

Muyil (Chunyaxche) | Maya Ruins in Sian Ka’an

The Muyil ruins are located about 15 miles south of Tulum in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere.  Set deep in the lush jungle, Muyil is less impressive than Tulum, but also less crowded and touristy.  Ruin-lovers in the area could check it out on a day trip to the biosphere.  The architecture here is known as “Peten” style, meaning similar construction and design as the ruins at Tikal in Guatemala.

Muyil was one of the earliest Maya cities on the coast, settled as early as 300 BCE.  It is situated on the Sian Ka’an lagoon, a name meaning “where the sky is born.”  (If you visit and see the beauty of the biosphere, you’ll understand how it got this name!)  There is a boardwalk through the jungle that takes you to a lookout over the lagoon.  

How to Get to Muyil

You can take a colectivo (shared van) from Tulum, arrange a taxi for the day, or take a tour that combines the ruins with other activities. Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes ( I love these! ), bug spray and a hat, as well as a bathing suit and towel if you plan to swim.  Bring cash to pay.

Tours: Check out this tour of Sian Ka’an and Muyil from Tulum or see Muyil and an ancient Maya trade route before relaxing on a canal float. 

Website | Hours 8AM – 5PM | Cost: 45 pesos; extra 50 pesos for the boardwalk 

Facilities: Restrooms | Find a Tulum hotel or grab my hotel tips or my guide to the best Tulum Airbnbs

Can you climb the ruins: Yes | Can you hire a guide onsite: No

More Quintana Roo-ins  (Get it?)

If you’re in Quintana Roo and not templed-out yet, check out a few more Maya archaeological sites:

Xelha (pronounced “shel-ha”): located across the highway from the popular Xel-Ha waterpark between Tulum and Akumal, this small site has visible murals and a cenote you can visit.

Chacchoben , Kohunlich , and Dzibanche and Kinichna : these ruins are located near Chetumal, Mahahual, and Bacalar.  Kohunlich is notable for its Temple of the Masks stairway, which is flanked by huge humanized stucco masks.  All are popular day trips from the cruise port in Chetumal.  For a ruins tour option from Bacalar, check out this itinerary for Maya sites and nature photography .

ⓘ What are colectivos? Grab a guide to taking shared van colectivos between Cancun and Tulum here .

Best Ruins in Yucatan State

Mexico’s ruins in Yucatan state are some of the most famous, and several have UNESCO status.  Legendary Chichen Itza is here with its iconic pyramid and ball court.  Other Maya sites include Ek Balam, noted for its well-preserved sculptures, and Uxmal, with its intricate carved facades.  They are easy to visit on day trips, with many good guided tour options.

Best Mexico Ruins - Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza - Platform of the Skulls

Chichen Itza | UNESCO Site & World Wonder

Chichen Itza is the celebrity entry on this list: it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was voted one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.  It’s also one of the most-visited tourist sites in Mexico; try not to visit during school holidays and the equinoxes!  

Chichen Itza was at its peak from 750 to 1200 CE as a center of trade and culture.  It fell into rapid decline around 1200, and was abandoned around 1500 at the time of Spanish colonization. Chichen Itza’s blend of architecture, with stylistic influences from central Mexico and other Maya regions, make it an important Mesoamerican ruin site and a must-see for ruin enthusiasts.

Surviving monuments at Chichen Itza include the main temple, the Pyramid of Kukulkan (also known as El Castillo); the Great Ball Court, the largest of its kind in Mesoamerica; El Caracol, an astronomical observatory; and the Temple of Warriors, an enormous temple with hundreds of stone columns.  You can also see the Sacred Cenote, where the Maya made offerings of jade, gold, and even sacrifices.

The Descent of Kukulkán

 How to Get to Chichen Itza Ruins

Chichen Itza can be seen on a full day trip from other cities in the region like Cancun, Merida, or Tulum. Tour itineraries often include a visit to nearby cenote Ik-Kil, which gives a welcome chance to cool off after a visit to the ruins.  Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes ( I love these! ), and a hat, as well as a bathing suit and towel if you plan to visit the cenote.

Chichen Itza Tours from the Riviera Maya and Merida

Check out this all-inclusive tour of Chichen Itza, Valladolid and Cenote Ik-Kil , or this itinerary that includes Coba , or even a sunrise Chichen Itza tour to beat the crowds .  If you want to add on the Xel-Ha park, there’s an all-inclusive option that also goes to Xcaret cenote.  If you’re based in Merida, here’s a good Chichen Itza itinerary.

Website | Hours 8AM – 4PM | Cost: 480 pesos; extra for parking

Facilities: Restrooms, restaurants, lockers, hotels | Find a hotel or get my expert Tulum hotel tips

ⓘ Chichen Itza Virtual Tour Explore Chichen Itza virtually from home with a feature from Google and the British Museum and also a 360-degree virtual Chichen Itza tour from National Geographic .

Ek Balam Acropolis - Best Mexico Ruins - Maya Ruins of Ek Balam

Ek Balam | Maya Ruins near Valladolid

The lesser-known Maya site of Ek Balam is about 15 miles north of the city of Valladolid , and means “black jaguar” in Mayan.  It’s notable for its well-preserved sculptures and stonework, panoramic views, and a four-sided entry arch.   

First settled in 100 BCE, most of the buildings at Ek Balam were constructed around 600-900 CE.  Must-see sights here include the Acropolis, restored stucco facades, and views of the jungle.  There is also a cenote, X’Canche, where you can cool off after your visit.

Get there: Ek Balam can be seen on day trip from other cities in the region like Valladolid , Cancun, Merida, or Tulum.  You can take a taxi or colectivo from Valladolid, or book a tour with transportation.  Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes ( I love these! ), bug spray, and a hat, as well as a bathing suit and towel if you plan to visit the cenote.  Bring cash to pay.

Tour options: These are itineraries that include Chichen Itza or Ek Balam and cenotes .  Another popular day trip in this area is Rio Lagartos – check out my guide here . 

Photo caption: on a clear day, you can see the temples of Chichen Itza and Coba on the horizon from the top of Ek Balam’s Acropolis, which is 90 feet (30m) high.

Website | Hours 8AM – 4PM | Cost: 480 pesos; extra for the cenote

Facilities: Restrooms | Find a Valladolid hotel or see the cool Airbnb where I stayed and grab all of my Valladolid visit tips

Can you climb the ruins: Yes | Can you hire a guide onsite: Yes

READ NEXT: My full guide to visiting Ek Balam and Cenote X’Canche on a day trip or guided tour!

Best Mexico Ruins - Maya Ruins of Uxmal

Uxmal Maya Ruins | UNESCO Heritage Site

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , Uxmal (pronounced “oosh mahl”) is one of the most important Maya archaeological sites.  It is built in the “Puuc” architectural style of the region, with building facades made of plain blocks on the lower part of structures, and intricate mosaics on the upper sections.  Puuc design also used a concrete core for support beneath the veneer blocks.

Founded around 500 CE, Uxmal flourished as a regional capital from 850-950, then started to decline.  Since the Spaniards didn’t build a city there, it was largely abandoned after 1500.

Uxmal is about an hour south of Merida, and there are three other smaller ruins sites in the same area: Kabah , Labná and Sayil .  These sites share the UNESCO designation with Uxmal.  If you want to see a less crowded ruin that looks like a smaller version of Chichen Itza, Mayapan is also within an hour drive from Merida.

How to Get to Uxmal

Uxmal can be seen on a day trip from Merida or Valladolid.  You can take a bus or taxi from Merida and/or stay overnight and see all the ruins in this area. Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes, a hat and cash to pay. 

If looking for a tour, check out this tour to Uxmal and Kabah from Merida or this itinerary with the Loltun caves, Sayil, Xlapak and Labna .

Website | Hours 8AM – 5PM | Cost: 413 pesos

Facilities: Restrooms, restaurants, hotels | Find a hotel in Uxmal or Merida

Planning a trip to Merida, Yucatan ? Don’t miss all my tips for visiting this colorful colonial gem or the charming nearby city of Valladolid .

Best Mexico Ruins - Maya Ruins of Dzibilchaltun

Dzibilchaltun Maya Ruins and Cenote Xlacah

Located about 10 miles north of Merida, Dzibilchaltun is a small Maya site.  Dzibilchaltun is notable for its accompanying museum, beautiful cenote Xlacah, and its Temple of the Seven Dolls, named for small effigies discovered during excavation.

How to Get to Dzibilchaltun

Dzibilchaltun can be seen on a half day trip from Merida or Valladolid, or combine it with other sites in the region like Progreso.  You can take a colectivo or taxi from Merida, or book a tour like this itinerary that includes Progreso . Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes, a hat and cash to pay.

Website | Hours 8AM – 4/5PM | Cost: 250 pesos

Facilities: Restrooms, restaurant, lockers, museum | Find a hotel in Merida

Can you climb the ruins: Yes  | Can you hire a guide onsite: Yes

ⓘ Small Group Adventure Tours to See Mayan Ruins Want to visit the ruins of Central America but not sure where to start? A small group adventure tour is a fun, easy, and cost-effective way to travel in Latin America, especially for solo or new travelers. Check out this trip with G Adventures to Mexico and Guatemala , or this Mexico – Guatemala – Belize itinerary from Intrepid Travel . And if you’re not sure if group tours are for you, be sure to read this post ! (Spoiler: they are!)

Best Mexico Ruins in Campeche State

The Mexican state of Campeche has more than 1,000 registered archaeological sites.  Unlike the ancient ruins of other Mexico states, though, they receive relatively few visitors due to their more remote locations.  The most-visited ruins are accessible mainly from two cities: from Bacalar on the east, and from the capital city of Campeche on the west coast.  The largest site, Calakmul, is set deep in a 2,800 square mile biosphere reserve.  All of this lets you explore the ruins at a slower pace and experience the power of their natural settings.  

Best Mexico Ruins - Maya Ruins of Calakmul

Calakmul | UNESCO Site & Remote Maya Ruins

Hidden in the jungle of the Mexican state of Campeche, just 20 miles from the border with Guatemala, lies the Maya archaeological site of Calakmul.  At its height, Calakmul was a major power and important Maya city. Calakmul is sometimes referred to as “The Kingdom of the Snake” due to their extensive use of a snake head sign as their emblem glyph.   Its well-preserved ruins and surrounding tropical forest ecosystem are now a UNESCO site .  

Calakmul is notable for one of the highest pyramids in the Maya world at 148 feet (45 meters).  And you can climb it!  Calakmul also has the greatest number of stelae discovered (120). Calakmul’s location in a tropical forest means you’re likely to encounter a variety of flora and fauna including spider and howler monkeys, colorful wild turkeys, agoutis, coati, toucans, and green parrots.  Nearby there is also the smaller site of Balamku , known for a stunning preserved stucco frieze.

How to Get to Calakmul

Calakmul is remote, located well into the biosphere off the road.  To see the site, it’s easiest to stay overnight in the town of Xpuhil or near the entrance to Calakmul in Conhuas.  Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes, a hat and cash to pay.  Or check out this tour option that departs from Bacalar or Palenque .

Website | Hours 8AM – 5PM; enter by 3PM | Cost: Community, national park, and ruin fees (paid separately) total around 180 pesos

Facilities: Restrooms | Find a hotel in Conhuas or Xpuhil

The Best Ruins in Mexico

Becan Maya Ruins

Occupied since around 550 BCE, Becán grew in political, religious and economic importance until reaching its peak in 600-900 CE.  Fragments of trade goods indicate that it might even have traded with Teotihuacan outside Mexico City.  Becan is notable for being surrounded by a moat, the only one found in a Maya settlement.  For this reason, the archaeologists who rediscovered it gave it the modern Mayan name Becán, meaning “ravine or canyon formed by water.”

Its architectural style known as “Rio Bec” is characterized by a central tower flanked by two false, very steep towers.  This area is known as the Rio Bec region, named after other ruins discovered deep in the Calakmul reserve. The Rio Bec ruins themselves are quite remote; you would have to find a guide to take you via ATV due to very poor roads to the site.

Ruin lovers can check out the more accessible nearby sites of Xpuhil , Chicanna and Hormiguero in the same day.  They are all within about 15 miles (24km).  

How to Get to Becan

To visit Becan, it’s easiest to stay overnight in the town of Xpuhil or near the entrance to Calakmul in Conhuas.  Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes, a hat and cash to pay.

Website | Hours 8AM – 5PM | Cost: 60 pesos

Best Mexico Ruins - Maya Ruins of Edzna

Edzna | Maya Ruins near Campeche

Edzná is an impressive Maya site, with a mixture of architectural styles spanning years from 300 BCE to 1200 CE. The main temple is built on a wide platform and has five stories, totaling 165 feet high (50m).  A cluster of structures known as the “Old Sorceress Group” includes a Temple of the Witch. Other notable ruins include a 32 stelae, a ball court, an astronomical observatory, and a temple with well-preserved masks of the sun god.

Edzna was an influential political and economic regional capital.  The name Edzná comes from “House of the Itzas,” which suggests that the city was influenced by the family of the Itza name before they founded Chichen Itzá. The architectural style of this site shows signs of the Puuc style, even though it is far from those sites.

How to Get to Edzna

Then ancient ruins of Edzna can be visited on a day trip from the pretty colonial capital city of Campeche (also called Campeche), which is about an hour away, or here’s a tour option from Merida that includes Campeche .  Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes, a hat and cash to pay.

Facilities: Restrooms | Find a hotel in Campeche or check out the spectacular Hacienda Uayamon

Best Chiapas Ruins

Deep in the mountainous Chiapas state, there are two must-see Maya sites that are top things to do in San Cristobal de las Casas . Here you will find Palenque, one of the most mythical Maya sites and best ruins in Mexico.  Other ruins in this region are more remote, including one that is accessible only by boat!  Travel in Chiapas is not without risk; I visited here on a small group tour, and recommend checking travel advisories if you go without a guide.  Travel on roads after dark is not recommended.

Best Mexico Ruins - Maya Ruins of Palenque

Palenque | Iconic Maya Ruins near San Cristobal

A dramatic forest setting and heavily-adorned buildings make Palenque one of my favorite ancient Maya sites.  I arrived here early in the morning just as fog was lifting, which cemented its magical status in my mind.  This site contains some of the finest Maya architecture, sculpture, carvings and roof combs (decoration on the tops of temples) that the Maya produced. Much of the history of Palenque has been reconstructed from reading the preserved carvings and hieroglyphic inscriptions on its monuments.  

Palenque reached its peak between the years 500 and 700 CE but declined sharply thereafter, and was lost to the jungle for hundreds of years.  It is a large site, encompassing around 50 square miles, only about 10% of which has been excavated.  The many structures here include temples, terraces, plazas, burial grounds, and a ball court.  You can climb some of the ruins for impressive views of the most famous temple called The Temple of the Inscriptions.  Also don’t miss the hiking trails through the jungle with waterfalls and wildlife including monkeys.

How to Get to Palenque

Palenque can be visited on a day trip from San Cristobal de las Casas, or stay at a hotel near the site in Palenque. To see some of the ruins, it might be required to have a guide. Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes, bug repellent, a hat and cash to pay.  Be aware of security conditions in the area and do not travel on roads after dark.

Tours: From San Cristobal, here’s an itinerary for Palenque with the Agua Azul waterfalls .

Website | Hours 8AM – 5PM | Cost: 80 pesos

Facilities: Restrooms, museum, cafe, gift shop  | Find a hotel in San Cristobal , Palenque or check out the secluded Hotel Boutique Quinta Chanabna a few miles from the site

ⓘ Virtual Tour of Palenque Take a virtual visit to Palenque with Google Arts & Culture , with both modern photos and pictures taken in 1891 by British explorer Alfred Maudslay.

Best Mexico Ruins - Bonampak

Bonampak | Maya Ruins with Vivid Frescoes

The explorer and Mesoamerican anthropologist Jacques Soustelle called Bonampak “a pictorial encyclopedia of a Maya city,” due to its extraordinary murals.  These painted frescoes depict scenes of Maya life including rituals and warfare and are in astonishingly good condition.  They are meant to be read together, to tell a story. Depending on the number of other visitors, though, your time to view the murals may be very limited.  Be sure to take photos (without flash, of course) so you can pore over them later!

Hidden deep in the Lacandon jungle, Bonampak is a small site.  Other than the frescoes, its main features are a Grand Plaza with its surrounding structures and the Acropolis. The site is built among a series of low terraced hills, with the Acropolis built into the hillside itself.

How to Get to Bonampak

I have not visited Bonampak yet, but other travelers report that you cannot drive into the archaeological park itself.  It seems that there is a “shuttle service” (and I use this term very loosely) provided by locals for the last step, for around 150 pesos a person round trip. 

The road conditions are very poor, so it’s probably best to avoid wear and tear on a rented vehicle anyway. (Also it doesn’t seem that you can refuse and still get to the site!)  Chiapas state has the highest poverty rate in Mexico; if you want to see this site, just budget for this “last mile” transportation that contributes to the local economy. 

Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes, bug repellent, a hat and cash to pay.  Be aware of security conditions in the area and do not travel on roads after dark.

Alternatively, you can book a tour from Palenque like this one to see both Bonampak and Yaxcihilan.

Website | Hours 8AM – 5PM | Cost: 70 pesos plus see note on “shuttle service” above

Facilities: Restrooms, museum | Find a hotel in San Cristobal , Palenque or Lacanja near the site

Can you climb the ruins: Yes  | Can you hire a guide onsite: No

Best Mexico Ruins - Maya Ruins of Yaxchilan

Yaxchilan | Ruins with a Riverside Setting

Perched on the western bank of the Usumacinta River, Yaxchilán (“the place of green stones”) lay along the trade route between the two great Maya cities of Palenque and Tikal.  To get here, you’ll need to take a boat along the river that forms part of the border between Mexico and Guatemala. 

Notable for its temples and beautiful carvings, Yaxchilan has acropolises with temples, grand staircases, and a palace.  Local legends say that a headless sculpture of a god here would bring about the end of the world if his head is replaced.  (So don’t move any stone heads when you go!)  

How to Get to Yaxchilan

Yaxchilan is accessible by boat from the pier in Frontera Corozal, or take a tour from Palenque to both Yaxchilan and Bonampak .  Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes, bug repellent, a hat and cash to pay.  Be aware of security conditions in the area and do not travel on roads after dark.

Website | Hours 8AM – 5PM | Cost: 60 pesos plus boat fee

Facilities: Restrooms | Find a hotel in Palenque , Lacanja or Frontera Corozal

Best Ruins in Oaxaca State

The state of Oaxaca, located in Southwestern Mexico, was home to the Zapotec and Mixtec people among others, and contains ancient ruins from these pre-Columbian civilizations.  The two most well-known sites are easy to visit on day trips from the state capital Oaxaca de Juarez (Oaxaca City), a destination rich in indigenous culture and history.  Monte Alban and Oaxaca are a UNESCO site.

Best Mexico Ruins - Zapotec Ruins of Monte Alban

Monte Alban | Zapotec Ruins in Mexico

One of the earliest cities of Mesoamerica, Monte Alban in Oaxaca flourished for over a thousand years from 500 BCE to 850 CE.  It was the socio-political and economic center of the Zapotec people.  Monte Alban is an elaborate site, with plazas, pyramids, a ball court, canals, and tombs.  As the Zapotec culture declined in the fourteenth century, areas of Monte Alban were then occupied by Mixtec peoples.

Designated a UNESCO site in conjunction with the city of Oaxaca, Monte Alban is notable for its architecture which bears similarities to the Teotihuacan ruins near Mexico City.   Although never as large as Teotihuacan, there is evidence of trade between the two cities.  Its hieroglyphs also contain some of the earliest writing in Mesoamerica. 

If you visit Oaxaca, you must visit Monte Alban to appreciate the history and culture of the region.  Climb the south platform for dramatic views of ruins and the valley against the backdrop of the Sierra Norte and Sierra Sur mountains.  Be sure to check out my guides to visiting Oaxaca for Dia de los Muertos and all of the top Oaxaca sights .

How to Get to Monte Alban

Monte Alban can be seen on a day trip from Oaxaca. Take a shuttle from the city, or book a tour with a guide to fully appreciate the site (and avoid the shuttle delays as it stops colectivo-style for passengers along the route).  Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, suitable shoes, a hat and cash to pay.  Here’s a good Monte Alban half-day tour from Oaxaca or this full-day Monte Alban itinerary that also includes Arrazola, Coyotepec and Cuilapam.

Facilities: Restrooms, museum, restaurant, gift shop | Get my guide to hotels in Oaxaca

Best Mexico Ruins - Zapotec Ruins of Mitla

Mitla | Zapotec Ruins in Oaxaca

As the former cultural and religious center of the Zapotec people, Mitla is another important archaeological site in Oaxaca.  Mitla began to gain prominence as the capital Monte Alban declined, reaching its peak in 700-900 CE.  Between 900 and 1500 the Mixtecs moved down from northern Oaxaca and took possession of Mitla; the Mixtec influence is most pronounced on the remaining ruins.  It is well preserved due to the cold, dry climate of the Oaxaca Valley.  

The most important architectural feature of Mitla halls are carvings, either carved into the stone or built up of individual stone pieces like a mortarless mosaic, which cover their exterior walls.  The site is most famous today for its huge rectangular building, the Hall of the Columns, which is richly decorated in these geometric relief carvings.  When the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, they built the Church of San Pablo above one of the original platforms to keep the gods of the underworld trapped in the ground. 

How to Get To Mitla

Mitla can be seen on a day trip from Oaxaca by bus. Or you can take a tour; Mitla itineraries usually include other sites in the region.  

Tours: There are many options! You can see both Monte Alban and Mitla in one day, or take a tour combining Mitla with Hierve el Agua waterfall , Santa Maria de Tule, and Teotitlan de Valle.  This itinerary adds on a mezcal tasting at the end of the day.

Website | Hours 8AM – 5PM | Cost: 75 pesos

Facilities: Restrooms  | Get my guide to the best hotels in Oaxaca

Can you climb the ruins: You can climb down into some of the tombs 

Can you hire a guide onsite: Yes

Mexico City Ruins & Central Mexico Ruins

Unlike the Maya ruins found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, the ruins surrounding Mexico’s capital city were built by different civilizations – Teotihuacanos, Toltecs, Aztecs and more.  Teotihuacan is here, possibly the largest and most influential city in the history of the New World.  It’s easy to see the most significant ruins on day trips.  When I visited, I was surprised to find ancient ruins in the center of Mexico City!

Best Mexico Ruins - Aztec Ruins of Tenochitlan - Templo Mayor

Tenochitlan – Templo Mayor | Aztec Ruins in Mexico

The ancient city of Tenochitlan was built upon a lake in what is now Mexico City by the Mexica people. This founding fulfilled one of their ancient prophecies.  Also known as the Aztecs, the Mexica were great warriors and formed a regional alliance in order to conquer their most powerful rivals.  By the time the Spanish arrived, the Aztecs ruled over as many as 5 to 6 million people in the region. The capital of Tenochitlan alone had over 200,000 inhabitants and was a huge center of trade.

By 1521, the Spaniards had conquered the Aztecs by alliances with their enemies, superior weapons, and the help of smallpox.  They razed the city and built the capital of New Spain in its place.

Excavations on Tenochitlan’s Templo Mayor began in 1978 after utility workers unearthed ruins.  Today, excavations continue providing insight into life during the height of Aztec rule.  Mexico City’s Zocalo is located at the site of Tenochtitlan’s original central plaza and market.  Be sure also to see the Aztec Sun Stone, which was discovered here in 1790 and is on display in the National Museum of Anthropology.

The Sun Stone (The Calendar Stone)

How to Get to Templo Mayor and Tenochitlan

The ancient ruins of the Templo Mayor are located in the city center.  I had an amazing Mexico City historical center Airbnb experience that included a short visit to the ruins, but you could also book a private tour with the same historian and guide Pau to explore the ruins in greater depth.  

Website | Hours 9AM – 5PM | Cost: 80 pesos | Find a hotel in the historic center of Mexico City

Best Mexico Ruins - Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan | Mexico City Ruins Day Trip

Located about 25 miles north of Mexico City, Teotihuacan is Mexico’s most-visited ancient archaeological site as well as a UNESCO Heritage Site .  Teotihuacan was built between 200 BCE and 600 CE, and became the largest and most populous city in Mesoamerica until its collapse around a hundred years later.  At its peak, it had more than 150,000 inhabitants.  The name of the civilization that built Teotihuacan is unknown; the city’s name was given by the Aztecs centuries later.

Teotihuacan is arranged in a grid layout that covers about 8 square miles (20 square kilometers). The main buildings are connected by the Avenue of the Dead, and include The Pyramid of the Moon, the Pyramid of the Sun, the Ciudadela (“Citadel”) and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl (the Feathered Serpent).  

The Pyramid of the Sun is 216 feet high (66 m) and can be climbed; get there early to avoid the long line of ruin-climbers.  The Pyramid of the Moon provides an impressive view of the Avenue of the Dead.  A number of paintings and frescoes also survive, and there is an on-site museum that displays artifacts found during excavation as well as a model of the city.

Get there: Teotihuacan is accessible by public bus from Mexico City.  Or check out this itinerary with a professional photographer as guide Or beat the crowds with a sunrise tour , a sunset tour , or hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan .

PRO TIP: When you visit, be sure to follow the Avenue of the Dead all the way to the end. Climb up the viewing platorm there to see the Temple of Quetzalcoatl hidden behind. This is the best-preserved structure onsite.

detail on Temple of Quetzalcoatl - Mexico ruins

Tula | Toltec Ruins in Mexico

Another day trip from Mexico City, the city of Tula was an important regional center as the capital of the Toltec Empire.  The Toltecs and Tula flourished between the fall of Teotihuacan and the rise of Tenochtitlan.  The site is most known for the Atlantes of Tula, enormous basalt sculptures of Toltec warriors, and the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl.

How to Get to Tula

Tula, located in Tula de Allende in Hidalgocan, can be seen on a day trip from Mexico City.  Most tours to Tula are private: check out this itinerary for both Tula and Teotihuacan , a tour of Tula and Teotihuacan with the Anthropology Museum , or Tula And Tepotzotlán .

Website | Hours 9AM – 5PM | Cost: 75 pesos 

Facilities: Restrooms, museum | Find a hotel in the historic center of Mexico City

Best Mexico Ruins - Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies - Great Pyramid of Cholula

Puebla: The Great Pyramid of Cholula

In Puebla, Mexico you’ll find the Great Pyramid of Cholula, also known as Pirámide Tepanapa and Tlachihualtepetl (in indigenous Nahuatl).  It’s the largest ancient pyramid in the world by volume, but you wouldn’t know it: it’s so hidden under a hill that the Spanish built a church on top of it!

Constructed from 20 BCE to 900 CE, the pyramid is actually a number of successive pyramids on top of each other, with later civilizations building a temple on top of the one before.  Because the church on top of it now has its own historic significance, the pyramid has not been fully excavated and restored.  To date, however, 5 miles (8km) of tunnels have been excavated to explore the levels inside as well as some stairways, platforms, and altars.  A side of the pyramid has been reconstructed.

The architectural style of the building was linked closely to Teotihuacan in the Valley of Mexico, although influences from temples on the Gulf of Mexico coast have been noted, including El Tajin.  The low, narrow tunnels are probably not for the claustrophobic, but Cholula offers a chance to go inside a pyramid!

How to Get to The Great Pyramid of Cholula

Buses run daily between Mexico City and Puebla.  From Mexico City, you can book a full-day tour to Puebla or check out this private tour . 

Website | Hours 9AM – 5PM | Cost: 80 pesos 

Facilities: Restrooms, museum | Find a hotel in the historic center of Mexico City or Puebla

Best Mexico Ruins - El Tajin

El Tajin | UNESCO Site near Veracruz

Located near the Gulf coast of Mexico in the state of Veracruz lies the UNESCO Heritage Site of El Tajin .  The city reached its peak in 900 – 1300 CE and became the most important city in the region after the fall of Teotihuacan.  This is one of the best Mexico ruins sites, and a must-see for ruin aficionados!

The most famous structure at El Tajin is the Pyramid of the Niches.  At 65 feet (20 meters tall), it is made up of 7 terraces of decreasing size. Each of its four sides is covered with stacked rows of small niches formed from blocks of stone. There are 365 total, suggesting this pyramid was used to track the days of the year.  Other remaining structures include pyramids, platforms, stelae, and 17 ballcourts.

How to Get to El Tajin

Buses run daily between Mexico City and Papantla, then take a taxi to the site.  Or you take a day trip from Veracruz .

ⓘ More on the Maya Explore more of the Maya Civilization with “Meet the Maya” from Google Arts & Culture and the British Museum including virtual tours, cultural features and images from early expeditions.

Other Central America Ruins Sites

If ruins are your thing, or if you’ll be traveling elsewhere in Central America, the Maya civilization extended further south. 

Best Mexico Ruins - Sunrise at Tikal in Guatemala

Best Maya Ruins in Guatemala

Tikal, El Mirador and Yaxha.  Tikal was one of the most important and largest Mayan cities, and is now a UNESCO Heritage site.  It can be visited from Flores, a quick flight from Guatemala City.  Be sure to stay a few days at Tikal so that you can climb Temple IV for sunrise!  

Yaxha can also be visited from Flores, but it is best to book a tour.  El Mirador is the most remote of the three: a tour is required.  Here are some good tour options for Guatemala ruins from Guatemala City and Flores.

  • 2-Day Tikal and Yaxha tour from Flores
  • 2-Day Tikal and Yaxha tour from Guatemala City
  • Yaxha sunset tour
  • El Mirador helicopter tour
  • 2-day, 1 night tour Yaxha and El Mirador from Flores

Best Maya Ruins in Belize

Caracol and Lamanai.  Located near the Guatemalan border, the ancient Maya city of Caracol is the largest archaeological site in Belize.  To get to both, it’s easiest to take tours: check out this option for Caracol with Rio Frio Cave and itinerary for Lamanai with a jungle river cruise .

Honduras Maya Ruins

Copán. Copan was the most southerly and also the highest of the Classic Maya centers, which today is a UNESCO site .  Get here via a tour from San Pedro Sula .

Maya Ruins in El Salvador

Joya de Ceren. This is an archaeological site in the Department of La Libertad in El Salvador. A UNESCO site , it contains the remains of a pre-hispanic farming village that was covered by a volcanic eruption in the seventh century CE.  Visit on a day trip from San Salvador, including this itinerary with Joya de Ceren, lakes and volcanoes .

Best Mexico Ruins - Teotihuacan - Temple of the Moon

Best Mexico Ruins Bucket List

I hope that this compilation of the best ruins in Mexico helps you with planning your adventures! Be sure to pin it for later so you always have my latest advice – I’ll update it periodically with top tour recommendations and visit tips!

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I was a travel hot mess, but I got better! I kept the name and now blog my best tips for culture + adventure travel from around the globe. Follow along for travel advice, destination guides, and photography from faraway lands and at home in Washington, DC.

Travel Writer | Photographer | Licensed Drone Pilot Member, Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)

Mexico

21 BEST Mayan Ruins in Mexico: Your Local’s 2024 Guide

When you think of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico, the first place that is likely to spring to the forefront of your mind is probably Chichen Itza. While Chichen Itza is very worthy of your time and is absolutely as breathtaking as the guidebooks would have you believe (it is one of the 7 world wonders after all!), it is not the only important Mayan ruin. 

There are actually more than 200 Mayan ruins scattered throughout Mexico alone. When you include the entirety of Latin America, there are more than 4,400! That is a lot of Mayan ruins! 

Table of Contents

Best Mayan Ruins in Mexico to Visit in 2024

Best Mayan ruins in Mexico: Oxkintok

Oxkintok is a seldom-visited archaeological site that sits in the western part of the Yucatan state, close to the border with Campeche. The city has a history dating back over 2,000 years and thrived between 300 and 1200 CE. 

The buildings here are organized into three main groups: Ah Canul, Ah Dzib, and Ah May. Oxkintok is a vast place and you should dedicate at least 2 hours to your visit. 

The ruins are so off-the-beaten path that you may find that you are the only visitor. One of the most interesting structures here is a three-storied building known as the “Satunsat”. 

The rectangular building is actually a labyrinth that is currently blocked off to the public to stop tourists from getting lost inside! Labyrinths are extremely rare in Mayan cities and only two other structures like this have been found throughout Mexico. 

Some of the pyramids and temple structures are both impressive and climbable. There are some interesting sculptures of humans that stand guard outside the impressive Chi’ich Palace and the eerie Palace of the Devil. 

Nobody knows who the sculptures are supposed to represent but it is agreed that they must have been important figures. Admission to Oxkintok is 70 pesos per person (Circa $3.90 USD). 

The city has not yet been fully excavated. You can see the tops of many other temples and pyramids peeping out above the grass so who knows what other treasures await beneath the surface…

Sayil 

Grand Palace at Sayil

The archeological site of Sayil is an essential stopping point along the Ruta Puuc. This ancient city, along with nearby Labna and Kabah was designated as a UNESCO world heritage site in December 1996. 

Sayil is much smaller than its neighbour ruins but it is worth a stop while exploring the Puuc route nonetheless. The name “Sayil” means “Place of the ants” in Mayan.  

The city’s most notable building is the impressive Great Palace which is immediately on your left-hand side after entering the complex. 

The palace has an 85-meter-long facade and is home to more than 90 rooms which are spread across three stories. The facade of the palace is decorated with hundreds of masks representing the long-nosed rain god Chaac. 

A walk through the woodlands from the palace leads you to the shrine of the Fertility God. It’s quite a trek, but worth the effort as at the end of your hike you pass a stream and reach a small clearing in the jungle to find the well-endowed statue. 

A few people have left coins and pesos as offerings for the god. If you are trying to get pregnant and trust in the Ancient Mayan ways, perhaps you can do the same. 

Labna 

which ruins to visit in mexico

The Labna Mayan ruins await along the Puuc Route, a short distance from Sayil, Kabah, and Xlapak. Labna is best known for its ceremonial archway designed in the classic Puuc style. 

Since this is the only structure that you commonly see photographed at Labna, you would be forgiven for thinking that the site is small. However, Labna is home to a number of interesting palaces, temples, and structures – including the Mirador (lookout point) which has some unique decorative elements like a statue in the shape of a human, and carvings representing Pok-ta-Pok ballplayers. 

Labna likely dates back to around 600 AD. However, most of the surviving structures here are from the period between 750 and 1050 AD. 

Labna likely had between 1,500 and 2,500 inhabitants at one point and the settlement covered an area of 1.24 square miles. It is believed that the city formed part of a greater political unit whose capital was either Uxmal or Sayil. 

Tulum Ruins

The Tulum ruins are among the best Mayan ruins in Mexico, and they are unique because they form the only Mayan city that was built next to the Caribbean Sea. The name “Tulum” means “wall” – a nod to the sunbleached defensive walls that still stand here. 

Historically, the Mayan city that once stood here was called “Zama”.  Inscriptions and stelae uncovered at the ruins indicate that Tulum dates back to at least 564AD. However, it wasn’t until the Late Post Classic period (1200 – 1521 A.D) that the city really thrived. 

The residents of Tulum (Zama) managed to avoid clashes with the Spanish conquistadors for years, aided by the natural defenses of their coastal hilltop location. Sadly, the Spanish eventually killed off the native residents and the city was finally abandoned. 

Sources state that the Mayan people continued seeing Tulum as a place of spiritual importance and visiting the ruins to pray and light incense, way up until the 20th century. Today, the Mayan city is one of the most popular attractions in Quintana Roo. 

After you have done exploring the ancient structures, you can swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters that await at the beach at the foot of the cliff. 

The Coba Mayan ruins sit in the eastern part of the Yucatán peninsula, some 47km from Tulum and close to the Yucatan-Quintana Roo state border. Their location is naturally stunning – surrounded by dense jungle, lush vegetation, and lakes. 

At one point, more than 50,000 people called Coba home – that’s twice the population of Chichén Itzá! The most notable site here is the 137-foot-tall pyramid of Nohoch Mul which you can climb up to watch the sunset. 

Nohoch Mul pyramid makes up part of a larger group of buildings called Conjunto de Pinturas . This also includes a temple with mural paintings and a ball court. 

The Macanxoc Group is another interesting group of structures at Coba comprised of a number of stone slabs with inscriptions and hieroglyphics. Their images depict ceremonies and day-to-day life in Ancient Coba. 

Coba is so large and made up of so many different trails and Mayan roads (sacbes) that many people opt to rent bicycles to get around. They are available at the entrance and are a unique way to explore the grounds. 

Once you are done exploring the archeological site, there are some lovely cenotes nearby that are nice places to cool down. Be sure to add Cenote Tankach-Ha, Cenote Choo-Ha, and Cenote Multun-Ha.

Mayapan 

Best Mayan ruins in Mexico: Mayapan

Few international travelers have heard of the Mayan city of Mayapan . However, this is one of the most important Mayan sites in Mexico.  

Mayapan means flag/banner of the Mayans in the Mayan language. The settlement here is considered as being the last great Mayan city. Mayapan became of significant importance after the downfall of Chichen Itza and its rise to power essentially marked the beginning of the end of their civilization. The Mayapan ruins are located just a few miles south of the Yucatan town of Telchaquillo .

They are about 40km south of Mérida and 100km west of Chichen Itza ruins, respectively.

The precise date that the city was built is the subject of debate among a lot of archaeologists and historians. However, it is widely believed to have been around 1000 AD. 

Following the downfall of Chichen Itza, King Kukulkan II of Chichen Itza and his people moved to Mayapan. There are several interesting structures, temples, and shrines to see here. 

Arguably the most notable of all is the Temple of Kukulcan. If the Mayapan pyramid looks almost exactly like the main pyramid of Chichen Itza, it is because the Mayans created it to be a replica of the Chichen Itza site. 

Sadly, many of the structures at the Mayapan site (including the Pyramid of Kukulcan) are considered inferior to those found in other Mayan cities. Mayapan marked the beginning of the end of the demise of the Mayans. Admission to the Mayapan ruins is 65 pesos ($3) for foreign visitors. Entrance is free for Mexicans on Sundays provided that you can show your ID. The site is open from 8 am to 4 pm daily and it is possible to climb the ruins.  

Chacchoben 

Best Mayan ruins in Mexico

Chacchoben (pronounced cha-cho-ben) is an ancient Mayan city in the southern part of the state of Quintana Roo. Its name means ¨the place of red corn¨.  

The city is 51km away from the gorgeous lake town of Bacalar and is a great place to stop while in the area visiting Bacalar and Mahahual . It is believed that this land has been inhabited since as early as 1000 BC. 

Currently, Chacchoben is the largest pre-Colombian city found in the Los Lagos region. It thrived around 360AD and likely had associations with Dzibanche and other smaller nearby sites.

From a visitor’s perspective, one of the most incredible things about Chacchoben is just how jungly the site is. Nestled in the jungle of Quintana Roo, the ancient city is massively overgrown. 

Giant palm trees block you from being able to see the sky overhead. Not all of the pyramids and platforms have been excavated and the tops of some of them are only just peeping out of the ground, covered in moss and overgrowth. 

Various wildlife calls the site home and if you stop by early in the morning, you may be lucky enough to spot peccaries dashing through the foliage. Other small animals call the area home, including deer, spider monkeys, gray foxes, and armadillos. Deeper into the jungle, you will find Yucatan wild cats like ocelots, pumas, and jaguars. 

The site was initially discovered in the 1940s by a local Mayan family. However, feeling quite at home among the pyramids, the locals decided to set up a house here! It wasn’t until 1972 that an American archeologist came across the site and reported it to INAH. 

Kabah 

best Mayan ruins in Mexico

Kabah is one of several Ancient Mayan cities that sit along the lesser-visited Ruta Puuc in the southern part of the Yucatan state . Kabáh, in Ancient Mayan, translates to mean  “lord of the powerful hand”. 

It is 22km away from the important city of Uxmal and has only been partially excavated. Centuries ago, the two settlements had a strong relationship based on politics and trade. 

It’s believed that Kabáh was one of similar size and importance to Uxmal and that the city thrived around 800AD. Just across the road from the main archeological site, unmarked on the map, you will find a sacbe (old, white ceremonial Mayan road) that once connected Uxmal and Kabah. As you approach the sacbe, you will note a grand stone ceremonial arch. This is believed to be the largest freestanding arch built by the Ancient Maya. The city of Kabah has been built in the Puuc style. Its most famous structure is the Codz Poop, also known as the Temple of the Masks.

This grand building is on your right-hand side after entering the site. Its facade has been decorated with hundreds of stone masks representing Chaac, the long-nosed rain god. There is also a small ceremonial platform here, with inscriptions that have never been deciphered. 

The Mayan city of Xiol was discovered on the outskirts of the Yucatan capital of Merida in May 2022, when construction workers were working on an industrial site. The original name of the settlement has been lost in time, so ¨Xiol¨ is the new name that has been awarded by INAH. 

Xiol is believed to have been built between 600 and 900 AD and to have thrived during the Late Classic period. The site consists of several plazas, palaces, and public buildings. A number of artifacts and burials were also uncovered during the excavations and were transported to a Yucatan museum for safekeeping. After around 900AD, the city of Xiol, like many other Mayan cities, was abandoned for apparently no reason. 

Despite the historical and cultural significance of Xiol, the industrial premises being constructed in the area are still going to be open. Some of the ruins sit within the industrial complex, though the landowners have assured that they will be protected and preserved. Others are set just outside its gates. 

Xiol is currently not open to the public. However, you can see it from the roadside, and the construction workers are generally open to people stopping by to take photos if that interests you. It is believed that the site will be opened to the public in late 2022.

Pirámide Kinich Kakmó

which ruins to visit in mexico

The Pirámide Kinich Kakmó in the center of the little Yucatan city of Izamal is an artificial limestone pyramid dedicated to the Mayan God Kinich. The name Kinich Kakmo is Mayan for “the fire macaw with the sun face”. 

This is one of only a small handful of remaining pyramids in the Yucatan peninsula as the majority were destroyed by the Spanish during their conquest of Mexico. It is believed to date back to 400-600 BCE, in the midst of the Maya classic period. 

Sacrifices were made here daily in honor of Kinich and it is believed that the entire pyramid was covered with a layer of stucco. Today, the atmosphere is much calmer. The pyramid is free to enter and exists in a small green space in the center of town, beside the internationally-known Kinich restaurant, and a short walk away from the Convento de San Antonio and the city’s zocalo (central plaza). You can climb to the top of the pyramid, and the spot is a great place to watch the sunset. 

As you meander around Izamal, you will note that all of the houses and buildings here have been painted in the same uniform shade of yellow. This is believed to be in honor of the Mayan Sun God Kinich Ahau. It is not known for certain whether Kinich Ahau and Kinich were the same deities appearing in different forms.  

Calakmul 

The archaeological site of Calakmul sits in the southern part of the state of Campeche, hours away from any settlement or civilization. Nestled deep in the jungle of the greater Petén Basin region, it dates back to the 6th century and housed more than 50,000 people at one point. 

The city was abandoned during the 9th century, for reasons unknown, during a period known as ¨the great Mayan collapse¨. Since it was hidden away so deep in the jungle, it went completely unnoticed during the colonial era. 

The ancient Mayan city is a UNESCO-protected site, while the jungle around it is part of a protected UNESCO Biosphere. Jaguars, tapirs, various species of monkeys, agoutis, snakes, deer, ocelots, and countless bird species live in and around Calakmul. 

In its heyday, Calakmul was the rival of Tikal in Guatemala. Today, only a portion of the site is open to the public. You can climb the pyramids of Calakmul, and you can experience fantastic views over the jungle canopy from the top of the structures. 

Since Calakmul is so remote, it requires a little effort to get to. This is absolutely worth it, particularly if you have an interest in Mayan history and off-the-beaten-path adventures. First of all, you need to get to the village of Xpujil. From there, you are 2 hours and 11 minutes, or 115km away from Calakmul. 

Expect to travel through large sections of jungle and nothingness before reaching Calakmul. Some travelers have even reported seeing jaguars wandering down the road. It is a good idea to invest in a Mexican sim card as there is no data signal in this area. 

Edzna 

Best Mayan ruins in Mexico: Edzna

The Mayan city of Edzna is an expansive, spectacular Mayan city in the state of Campeche . It is very frequently overlooked – perhaps because it takes a bit of effort to get to. Campeche is the least visited part of the Yucatan peninsula and although the Edzna ruins are among the best Mayan ruins in Mexico, they are also among the least visited. Indeed, you can often stop by here and find that you have the site entirely to yourself! 

Edzna is Mayan for ¨House of the Itzas¨. The site was occupied as early as 700 BC and quickly developed into a major commercial and political hub for the Mayans. 

Edzna was eventually abandoned in 1500AD for reasons unknown and it was not discovered again until 1907. The site is vast and is just as interesting as the better-known ruins at Chichen Itza or Uxmal. More than 25,000 people called Edzna home during the city’s heyday. There are several structures here that are more impressive than the last. 

In particular, look out for the Great Pyramid and the Grand Acropolis. The ¨Temple of the Masks¨ is also fascinating and contains two extremely well-preserved stucco masks of the god Kinich Ahau. 

These were not discovered until 1988. Considering how old they are, the condition that they are in is amazing! 

Ek Balam 

which ruins to visit in mexico

Ek Balam is one of the best Mayan ruins in the Yucatan. The name Ek Balam translates to meaning black jaguar or dark jaguar in Ancient Maya. This site is located conveniently close to Chichen Itza. There is a distance of just 71km between the two sites making it easy to conquer them both in one day. Then, you can stop for a spot of lunch and some traditional Yucatecan food in nearby Valladolid. 

Ek Balam was a major political hub for the Ancient Maya and thrived between 770 and 840 AD. After it was abandoned, it was reclaimed by the jungle and became massively overgrown. Fascinatingly, it was not discovered until as recently as the 1980s! It is also only partially excavated so who knows how this site will change and develop in the years to come. 

El Torre is the name of the grand pyramid at Ek Balam. It boasts a height of 95 feet and offers unparalleled views over the jungle canopy. 

On a clear day, you can see the pointed pyramid roofs of Chichen Itza and Coba from up here! Partway up, you will also notice an incredibly ornate, carved structure. This is the tomb of Ukil-Kan-Lek-Tok, a former ruler of Ek Balam. 

Ek Balam is well worth visiting for the opportunity to climb its pyramid and enjoy the jungle views it offers. However, the site has increased in popularity and price in recent years and is certainly not the off-the-beaten-path destination that it once was.

Recommended Ek Balam Tours 

Admission to Ek Balam is now a whopping 498 (£19.50/$25) pesos for foreign travelers and 198 pesos (£8/$10) for Mexicans. This makes it substantially more expensive than other sites. 

Whether you want to spend that and visit is up to you and arguably depends on how many other Mayan cities you will be visiting during your trip. 

  • Ek Balam & Cenote Maya: Full day tour
  • Chichen Itza, Hubiku and Ek Balam tour from Cancun/Playa Del Carmen
  • Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, Cenote and lunch – excursion from Cancun  
  • Ek Balam self-guided tour audio app
  • Yucatan: Self-guided Mayan ruins walking tour bundle
  • Ek Balam, Cenote Hibiku and Rio Lagartos tour from Cancun
  • From Merida: Farming, cenote and Ek Balam pyramids tour 

Uxmal ruins

which ruins to visit in mexico

Uxmal is, without hesitation, one of the best Mayan ruins in the Yucatan. It is located 83.4km south of Merida and makes a great day trip from the Yucatan capital. 

Uxmal (pronounced ¨Uss-mal¨) means thrice built in Ancient Mayan. It was actually constructed five times!

Although many ruins in Mexico are impressive, Uxmal is one of the most historically important – perhaps second only to Chichen Itza. The journey from Merida to Uxmal should take a little over an hour depending on your transport method. 

The site dates back to 700 AD and was once home to 25,000 people. It was eventually abandoned in 1200AD and was first excavated in 1929.

Uxmal was recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1996. Many local tour companies offer excursions to Uxmal. 

If you choose to visit the site independently, it is worth paying an additional 200 pesos to hire a guide at the entrance. They can provide you with a lot more information and context about the history of the various structures here. If you are traveling solo, they can also help you take some photos! 

Today, much of Uxmal has still not been excavated. However, the part of the site that is visible is very expansive. 

You could easily spend an entire afternoon exploring the site. Nearby, you can also visit the Choco-story museum which tells the history of chocolate and how it was invented in Mexico. 

Recommended Uxmal Tours 

which ruins to visit in mexico

  • From Mérida: Uxmal and Kabah guided tour with lunch
  • Uxmal light and sound night experience tour from Merida
  • From Merida: Uxmal, Hacienda Yaxcopoil and Cenote with lunch
  • Uxmal with private guide and transportation from Merida
  • Uxmal: vintage land rover expedition to Uxmal cenotes 

Chichen Itza 

which ruins to visit in mexico

Of course, no list of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico would be complete without Chichen Itza. This is one of the ¨new¨ seven wonders of the world and one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Mexico. Regardless of how many times you have seen the famous site photographed in travel publications and on social media, nothing can compare to visiting Chichen Itza and seeing it firsthand for yourself. 

The term Chichen Itza means ‘the mouth at the well of Itza’. It is believed Itza means ‘water magicians’.

The precise construction date of Chichen Itza is unknown. However, archaeologists believe that it dates back to around 600-750 A.D.

Fun Mexico fact : The temple that always appears in photos of the site is the Temple of Kukulcán. 

Its name is not Chichen Itza. Chichen Itza is the name of city. 

Unfortunately, whatever time of day you stop by, Chichen Itza is always crowded. It is a good idea to be outside the site for 8 am when it opens but even so, you will often be met with other tourists waiting to get in! 

Still, this is one of the must-visit places in the Yucatan . Look out for the sacred Cenote Sagrado. The Ancient Maya would make human sacrifices here. 

Recommended Chichen Itza tours 

Best Mayan ruins in Mexico

A number of reputable tour companies across Mexico run daily tours to Chichen Itza. Many include pick up and drop off from your hotel in Merida, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Valladolid, or Tulum, while others involve meeting your tour guide at the site entrance.

Exploring with a local guide means that you gain a deeper understanding of the history behind the most famous Mayan ruin in the world and its various structures. Book your place online in advance to avoid disappointment!

  • Cancun/Riviera Maya: Chichen Itza, Valladolid and Cenote tour
  • Skip-the-line entrance to Chichen Itza
  • From Cancun: Chichen Itza, Ik Kil cenote, and Valladolid tour
  • Riviera Maya: Coba and Chichen Itza tour with cenote and lunch
  • Chichen Itza: Exclusive early access with cenote and lunch
  • Tour of Chichen Itza, Valladolid, tequila tasting, cenote and lunch
  • Self-guided audio tour of Chichen Itza with map 

Dzibilchaltun

Temple of the Seven Dolls

The Dzibiltcaltun ruins are located on the northern outskirts of Merida, just 10 minutes or so from the center of town. The name Dzibiltcaltun means ¨writing on flat stones¨ in Mayan.

This is with reference to the inscribed stone tablets that were found at the site. The precise date that the settlement was built is unknown, but it is believed that the site was constructed around 300 BC.

After the colonization, the Spanish continued to occupy Dzibilchaltun. This is interesting as today, there is a mishmash of Spanish and Ancient Mayan sites, including a Franciscan chapel in the center of the ruins.

Look out for the Temple of the Seven Dolls, perhaps the most interesting structure that has been excavated. This was once a place of worship and when it was found, there were seven clay structures in the shape of humans found inside.

Over 8,000 structures have been identified here but only a small portion has been excavated. An international team of archeologists continues to work on the site to uncover more of the ruins.

Although Dzibiltcaltun is significantly smaller than sites like Uxmal and Chichen Itza, it is still worth your attention. This is particularly the case if you are already spending a few days in Merida.

You can get an Uber from the city center to take you to the ruins. Carve time out of your schedule to visit the adjacent Museo del Pueblo Maya de Dzibilchaltún and the on-site Cenote Xlacah.

Stop by the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida on your way back to the city. Then, stop for a traditional Mexican breakfast at La Casa De Los Abuelos.

Visiting Dzibilchatun

Dzibilchaltún reopened to tourists in July 2022 after a period of extended closure. This was due to an ongoing dispute between the Mexican Government and the Landowners.

Since this seems to be an ongoing issue, double-check in advance if the site is open during the period that you plan to visit. Admission is 282 pesos ($14) per person.

Mexicans can enjoy free entry on Sundays. However, you need to be prepared to show proof of nationality/identification.

Xcambo Ruins

which ruins to visit in mexico

The Xcambo ruins are located in the Telchac Puerto region of the Northern Yucatan. Xcambo was once an important port for commerce and trade.

The locals placed a lot of dependence on the harvesting and sale of salt in the area. This still remains an important aspect of local trade in this region to this day and you will find a lot of salt farmers working in the nearby pink lakes (Laguna Rosa).

Sadly, very little is known about Xcambo and this is reflected by the scarcity of information at the site here. There are no information plaques and nobody knows who ruled over the city.

It is believed that Xcambo dates back to 250-600 A.D. It was eventually abandoned 600-900 A.D.

You will note a small catholic church with a small, carved stone statue of Jesus right in the middle of the ruins. This was built by locals around 50 years ago before the ruins here were fully excavated.

Without realizing that an important Mayan city awaited beneath the surface, they used some of the stones from the temples and shrines at Xcambo to build the church. You can tie a visit here in with a trip to the nearby Yucatecan beaches of San Benito and Telchac Puerto.

Palenque 

which ruins to visit in mexico

Palenque, also known as Lakamha in Mayan, was an ancient Mayan city in the northern part of Chiapas state. The site dates back to the Early Classic period (A.D. 200-600) and flourished during the 7th century under the rule of Pakal. 

Visiting Palenque is one of the best things to do in Chiapas . The namesake town of Palenque nearby is a pueblo magico. The ruins were recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1987 and declared an Archaeological Monument by the Mexican Federal Government in 1993. 

The pyramids and ancient Mayan temples here tower above the jungle canopy, against the backdrop of the Tumbalá mountains. You can climb to the top of them to enjoy incredible birdseye views of the settlement. Among the various temples and structures here, there are a few in particular, that you should look out for. The first temple that you will find immediately on your right after entering the complex is the Templo de la Calavera (temple of the skull), aptly named after the animal skull carving on the base of one of its pillars. Nearby, the Tumba de la Reina Roja, is dedicated to a female dignitary whose remains were found here and had been colored red with cinnabar. The Templo de las Inscripciones is the tallest and most notable of Palenque structures.

Yaxchilán 

which ruins to visit in mexico

The Mayan city of Yaxchilán (pronounced ¨Yax-chee-lan¨) is arguably one of the least visited Mayan ruins in Southern Mexico. This is owing, in part, to the fact that it is so remote and tricky to get to. Once upon a time, Yaxchilán was one of the most powerful Maya states along the Usumacinta River. 

Today, it sits very close to the Guatemala border. Getting here requires a journey through rural Chiapas, a short trek through the jungle, and a boat ride from the rural town of Frontera Corozal. 

For that, you are rewarded with a mysterious temple hidden away in the depths of the jungle, that makes you feel like a modern-day explorer. The city´s name means ¨Place of Green Stones” in Mayan. 

Yaxchilán thrived between 800 and 1000 AD. More than 120 structures make up the complex and they have been grouped into three areas. Notably: the Great Plaza, the Grand Acropolis, and the Small Acropolis.

Bonampak 

which ruins to visit in mexico

Bonampak makes a nice travel pairing with Yaxchilán and most Chiapas tours visit the two sites together. The ancient city is only small but its importance in aiding us to understand Mayan culture and history is phenomenal.

Bonampak is best known for its murals that depict war and sacrifice among the Maya, as well as other scenes of daily life. Prior to their discovery, historians had thought that the Mayans were a peaceful civilization. 

All of that changed when Bonampak was discovered. The frescoes are contained within one small building within the Acropolis complex of the city. They are bold, and colorful, and extend from floor to ceiling. Archeologists consider them to be the very best preserved Mayan murals in existence in the world today. 

The city is believed to date back to around 580 to 800 A.D, until it was finally abandoned around 900 A.D, like many other of the best Mayan cities in Mexico. The name ¨Bonampak¨ means ¨painted wall¨ in modern Mayan.   

Archaeological Zone of Becán

The Becán ruins are a small archeological site close to Xpujil and the Calakmul ruins in Southern Campeche state. They were found by archaeologists Karl Ruppert and John Denison in 1934 and are worth stopping by while in the area. 

Becán, meaning ¨serpent roadway¨ in Mayan, is the name that archeologists awarded to the site. The real name of the settlement is unknown, lost in time like that of Xiol and other Mayan settlements. 20 structures within the complex have been excavated, with more lurking beneath the surface, waiting to be awarded time and funding. Becáns buildings have been constructed in the Río Bec architectural style. This is a style of building temples, houses, and shrines that were notably different from the Puuc style seen in the likes of Kabah and Uxmal. Becán, among other cities in the area, was a rival of Tikal in Guatemala. 

Construction here was believed to have been started around 550 AD. The city was eventually abandoned around 1200 AD.

Final thoughts on the best Mayan ruins in Mexico

which ruins to visit in mexico

Have you visited any of the Mayan ruins on this list? Which ones were your favorites? 

The ancient Mayan cities that you can find scattered across the Yucatan peninsula, Chiapas and wider Southern Mexico provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Mayans. The fascinating thing is that to this day, historians and archeologists still have many unanswered questions about the Maya.

They are still constantly working on excavating existing cities and finding new ones. Who knows what other wonders are yet to be found…

If you are planning a trip to Mexico for the first time, you might also enjoy this suggested Yucatan itinerary or this list of Mexico travel tips.

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Melissa Douglas

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13 Best Mayan Ruins in Mexico

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Mar 1, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

With thousands of years of history in its rearview mirror, Mexico has some spectacular ancient ruins. The country has been home to dozens of indigenous tribes over the centuries, but few are as well known as the Maya.

The coastal Mayan ruins of Tulum

The Maya civilization was a Mesoamerican culture whose empire stretched from what is now southern Mexico through Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. They built hundreds of impressive cities along an intricate network of roads, and ruled the region for hundreds of years. They were master mathematicians, astronomers, artists, and farmers.

Today, their culture still thrives in many remote communities in Mexico and the Mayan language is still alive and well in this part of the country.

Most of their cities were abandoned by the year 900, but what they left behind were remarkable clues to uncovering the details of their history. Many travelers have likely heard of their major cities, like Chichen Itza and Tulum . But believe it or not, there are dozens upon dozens of Mayan ruins scattered all across Mexico's southern states, from Quintana Roo and the state of Yucatan, to Campeche, Chiapas, and even Tabasco.

To understand the Mayan culture is to really step into their shoes and walk their ancient streets. Discover the best places to visit for this with our list of the top Mayan ruins in Mexico.

1. Chichén Itzá

4. palenque, 5. calakmul, 6. bonampak, 7. ek' balam, 11. yaxchilán, 12. kohunlich.

A structure at Chichen Itza

It's impossible to talk about Mexico's Mayan ruins and leave out Chichen Itza. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World , Chichen Itza is known around the world, and its image is one of Mexico's most recognized.

Located in the state of Yucatan, part of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, Chichen Itza was a thriving Mayan city that dates back to around the 5th century. It was one of the largest cities in the Mayan world , spread over approximately two square miles. It bustled as a hub of commerce and had residences, religious monuments, and even its own suburbs.

One of the highlights of Chichen Itza is El Castillo, a mathematically and scientifically designed step pyramid that is the best manifestation of the Mayans' understanding of astronomy. There are 365 steps (one for each day of the year), and twice a year on the spring and autumn equinoxes, a shadow appears on the pyramid that takes the shape of a serpent – a tribute to the most important Mayan god, Kukulcan, a feathered serpent.

El Castillo, Chichen Itza

The best way to visit Chichen Itza is to arrive early . Trust me on this. It is the most-visited Mayan site in the world, which means thousands of tourists visit each day. The park opens at 8am, so plan to arrive even before the gates open. You'll be thankful for this advice, too, when you see how hot it can get during the afternoon.

After exploring Chichen Itza, stop by the town of Valladolid , a charming Pueblo Magico that is along the route between Chichen Itza and Cancun. Believe it or not, Valladolid is one of the most underrated foodie spots in Mexico, so if you're hungry after Chichen Itza, this is a great place to stop. Yum Ka'an El Buen Sabor is one of the best restaurants in Valladolid to try typical Mayan recipes.

  • Read More: From Cancun to Chichen Itza: Best Ways to Get There

The coastal Mayan ruins of Tulum

Almost as recognizable as Chichen Itza are the coastal ruins of Tulum. The image of its largest structure, El Castillo, is iconic of the destination: perched on a cliff overlooking the magnetic turquoise Caribbean Sea.

It is one of the most visited sites in Mexico , with more than two million visitors per year. The original name of the site was Zama, which means sunrise. It's no wonder why - the sunrises here are spectacular and certainly worth the early wake-up call to experience.

At its height, around the 13th century, the city was a gateway to connect the Yucatan Peninsula with the people of Honduras and other places in the Gulf of Mexico.

Be sure to bring a bathing suit when visiting this site . The sugar-colored sand beneath the ruins is a popular spot to take a dip after touring the ancient city.

Author's Tip: Purchase a combo ticket, which includes a tour of the ruins and then the opportunity to snorkel along the beach below. Plus, the views of the ruins from the water are spectacular. Afterward, stop by the restaurant Ojo de Agua for delicious healthy food like salads, fruit bowls, tacos, and ceviche. The tropical ceviche is absolutely delicious with tuna, avocado, mango, green apple, lemon, and pineapple juice.

Read More: Visiting Tulum: Attractions, Tips & Tours

Mayan ruins at Coba

Unlike its neighbors, Chichen Itza and Tulum, Coba has drifted relatively under the radar in terms of popularity. That's because it wasn't open to the public until the 1970s because the surrounding jungle was too thick to penetrate.

Today, only a small percentage of the site has been excavated , but it is one of the largest Mayan cities, spanning about 30 square miles. Bicycles are available for rent to explore the four square miles that are open to the public.

What's cool about Coba is that it is one of the last remaining archaeological sites in Mexico that visitors can still climb . The pyramid to scale is Nohoch Mul, the main structure, which is ascended via steep, slippery stone steps. It's worth it for the view, though, which spans miles in every direction out over thick, green jungle.

The Mayan Nohoch Mul pyramid in Coba

Coba also has a few cenotes surrounding it, which are excellent additions to a day trip. Cool off from the heat and humidity in Multum-Ha, Tankach-Ha, and Choo-Ha, all of which are a close drive from Coba.

Address: Carretera Federal Tulum 307, 77793 Cobá, Q.R., Mexico

View over ruins of Palenque

Deep in the mist-shrouded jungles of the state of Chiapas lies one of Mexico's most impressive Mayan cities. The first written account of Palenque dates back to the 16th century, but its history dates back to about the 3rd century .

It is not the largest Mayan city, but it is one of the most important due to its sheer volume of inscriptions - a recorded history that has helped researchers truly understand the details of Mayan history and culture.

Palenque

The site is peppered with hundreds of ruins which, while a stony gray now, were once vibrantly colored with reds, blues, and yellows. The most impressive structure is the Temple of the Inscriptions, which contains hundreds of hieroglyphics. The entire site was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

One of the best ways to see Palenque is to spend the night in El Panchan. El Panchan is a small backpacker village with cabanas to rent, as well as a restaurant . When I did my backpacking tour of southern Mexico, I spent a night in El Panchan and made some wonderful friends who were also traveling solo. We all decided to take a day trip to Cascadas Roberto Barrios, beautiful waterfalls located not far from Palenque.

Temple of the Inscriptions, Palenque

Address: Carr. Zona Arqueológica " Palenque " Km. 6.5, 29960 Palenque, Chis., Mexico

Calakmul

For more than 1,200 years, the city of Calakmul was an integral part of the Mayan world. Today, the site is located within the state of Campeche on more than 7,000 acres of World Heritage property within the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve.

The entire site is shrouded in thick, tropical forest - the second largest tropical forest in the Americas after the Amazon. In fact, the jungle is so thick that Calakmul remained unexplored and untouched for centuries. It only became a World Heritage site in 1993.

At its height, around the 6th century, approximately 65,000 people lived in the city. Its biggest rival was Tikal, just across the border in Guatemala. The most important structure at the site is The Great Pyramid, whose base spans five acres and whose peak rises 174 feet. It is the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan and, yes, you can still climb it.

Fun fact: On a clear day climbers can see the neighboring site of El Mirador in Guatemala.

Painted walls in Bonampak

The name "Bonampak" translates to "painted walls," which could not be a more fitting title for this Mayan site in Chiapas. The main structure of the archaeological site is quite literally splashed with vibrant, colorful murals. In fact, these are the most well-preserved murals in the entire Mayan world.

Founded around AD 580, the city used the Usumacinta River to trade with other famous Mayan cities like Yaxchilan and Piedras Negras.

Bonampak remains slightly off the tourist trail because it's a bit of a hike to get to. The site is about 2.5 hours from Palenque down a narrow road through the jungle. But visitors are rewarded with a relatively intimate experience surrounded by stunning visuals. The murals tell stories of Mayan customs, from celebrations and sacrifice to music and war.

The paintings themselves date back more than 1,000 years and are heavily protected, but visitors can still see them from a ramp inside the doorway.

Jaguar mouth on the Acropolis, Ek' Balam

Ek' Balam is a city that was mysteriously banned right after its peak in the 8th century. Still very much hidden by jungle, the gorgeous site features pyramids, a ball court, and, most notably, an Acropolis.

At the top of the Acropolis is the main pyramid of Ek' Balam, which features a massive jaguar mouth (Ek Balam means "the black jaguar"), stucco skulls, winged shaman figures, and other decorations. Known as El Torre, it is one of the largest Mayan structures in the Yucatan, measuring more than 500 feet long and 200 feet wide, with a height of 100 feet.

The Tower holds the tomb of the ruler Ukil-Kan-Lek-Tok, who was in power at the city's height in AD 800.

The city functioned for more than 1,000 years, and today only the center of the city has been excavated. The entire settlement covered around 4.6 square miles.

Author Meagan Drillinger at Uxmal

Just outside the city of Merida in the state of Yucatan stands this ancient Mayan city that was once home to 20,000 people . The city's name translates to "Thrice Built," which refers to its tallest structure, The Pyramid of the Magician, which was built on top of existing pyramids.

The city is an important stop on the Ruta Puuc, which is a driving road that connects neighboring Mayan cities. Three related cities are Kabah, Labna, and Sayil. Puuc refers to both a region and a style of architecture.

Uxmal was at its peak around the 10th century. In the 15th century, it was abandoned.

Today Uxmal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans about 150 acres and includes many structures that visitors are able to climb.

Temple of the Magician at Uxmal

You could visit Uxmal either with a guide or on your own . I visited on my own, and I loved how empty the park was. This gave me ample time to explore things at my leisure and wander wherever I wanted to go. On the flip side, having a guide does offer a more in-depth explanation of the history and culture of Uxmal. It's up to you which way you want to play it.

If you have a car, it's pretty easy to visit some of the other ruins along the Ruta Pu'uc. Kabah is about 18 kilometers from Uxmal and has some very beautiful structures still intact, like the Palace and the Palace of Masks.

Temple of the Magician, Uxmal

If you thought Chichen Itza was impressive, just wait until you feast your eyes on Becan. Located in the state of Campeche, Becan is one of several Mayan sites near Calakmul, and is one of the most impressive, yet thoroughly under-visited.

The site sits on approximately seven acres, where 20 structures are open to the public. The massive pyramids are what set this site apart, though they allegedly were built for show more than function. Case in point: the presence of many fake stairways and false entrances.

At the time of its height, Becan was a major capital of the Rio Bec province and was one of the many cities that battled Tikal in Guatemala. A moat surrounds the city, and there is evidence of walls and tunnels.

Edzna

Located in the northern part of the state of Campeche, Edzna is a remarkable Mayan site that is far less trafficked than other sites in the region.

It is marked by its main temple, which sits on a 130-foot platform, known as the Gran Acropolis. It also has a ball court, which is still wonderfully preserved. The city was abandoned around the year 1,500, but historians believe that it could have been inhabited as early as 600 BC. It is another example of Puuc-style architecture.

Another important structure is the Temple of the Masks, which wasn't uncovered until 1988. The building has two masks at its base: one representing the Sunrise God and the other the Sunset God.

The city was at its peak between AD 400 and 1000 when about 25,000 inhabitants lived there.

Yaxchilan

Journeying to Yaxchilan is really like stepping into an Indiana Jones adventure. Reaching the site on the Usumacinta River in Chiapas requires a colectivo or bus to Frontera Corozal, where travelers can catch a boat to the ruins . You can DIY, but most visitors opt for a tour to alleviate the stress of negotiating boat prices.

But the adventurous spirits are rewarded with a truly memorable experience. The jungle city was once a large settlement that often was at war with nearby Palenque. There are more than 120 buildings that make up three complexes: the Great Plaza, the Grand Acropolis, and the Small Acropolis.

What makes Yaxchilan memorable are the vast amounts of stelae, carvings, and mural paintings. In fact, it has some of the best carvings of any Mayan city. To visit Yaxchilan is to truly embark on an adventure that will stay with you for a long, long time.

Kohunlich

A trip to the very depths of the state of Quintana Roo rewards travelers with so much, from the glittering waters of Laguna Bacalar, to the pristine coast of the Costa Maya. Tucked within the jungle is another secret: the ruins of Kohunlich.

Surrounded by dense jungle, echoing with the shrieks of howler monkeys , the ruins are blanketed in moss and grass, seeming to blend into the nature around it. It really is a mesmerizing piece of Mayan history.

The ruins at Kohunlich

The 21-acre site largely remains unexcavated . It wasn't a major capital but is believed to be a stopover trade city between capitals. The most impressive structure here is the Temple of the Masks, a structure lined with massive stucco masks. There is also the building known as 27 Steps, a climbable structure with a wonderful view from the top over the jungle.

One of my favorite places to stay in this part of Mexico is the Explorean Kohunlich , a four-star, all-inclusive reso rt named for these very Mayan Ruins. This special hotel is tucked deep within the jungle, a quick drive from the ruins, and offers gorgeous bungalow-style rooms and a beautiful pool.

Address: Carretera Federal 186 (Chetumal-Escárcega, 77981 Chetumal, Q.R., Mexico

El Rey ruins

Let's say you're traveling to Cancun but do not want to take an entire day to go see ruins. That is absolutely doable. Cancun's resort-strewn Hotel Zone actually has an archaeological site right there, so travelers never have to go very far from their resorts to soak up some Mayan heritage.

The El Rey ruins at the southern end of the Hotel Zone were once part of a temple complex that dates back more than 1,000 years. Today the site has 47 structures, and the complex takes no more than half hour to explore. Most people take a taxi to reach the ruins, but you can also sign up for a tour.

What's great about El Rey is that you'll hardly ever find the site crowded. Most tourists are on the buses headed to destinations like Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba. To visit El Rey takes practically no time, and you'll be able to soak up a little bit of culture while still being able to sun at the pool – all before the rest of the hotel guests get back from their longer day trips.

Address: Hotel Zone, 77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo

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15 Best Mayan Ruins In Mexico That You Shouldn’t Miss

Are you looking for the best Mayan ruins in Mexico to visit? 

In Mexico and Central America, the Maya are a culture and a people who have lived there since around the year 1800 BCE. There is a widespread belief that the Maya have been obliterated, which is not the case at all.

Several million Mayas still speak their native Mayan language instead of Spanish, which now dominates in their countries of residence. The Mayas continue to practice their ancient traditions and speak their language.

However, Mayan cities and pyramids of stone built by their ancestors have been left to rot in the jungles of Mexico for various reasons. Over the past centuries, a large number of Mayan sites have been excavated.

Things you'll find in this article

15 Best Mayan Ruins In Mexico

1. chichen itza, yucatan, 2. monte alban, oaxaca, 3. el tajin, veracruz, 4. teotihuacan, mexico state, 5. becán, campeche, 6. calakmul, campeche, 7. coba, quintana roo, 8. ek’ balam, yucatán, 9. edzna, campeche, 10. templo mayor, mexico state, 11. palenque, chiapas, 12. tulum, yucatan, 13. uxmal, yucatan, 14. xochicalco, morelos, travel tips and resources.

15 Best Mayan Ruins In Mexico

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The discovery of these sites has reintroduced people to this fascinating culture, and the turns are now among the best parts of the country’s tourist attractions. Heading to Mexico soon? Here are some of the best Mayan sites that you won’t want to miss.

chichen itza mexico

Chichen Itza , one of Mexico’s most important and iconic historical sites, is only about 120 miles from Cancun . Mexico’s most famous landmark , Chichen Itza has been included in the New Seven Wonders of the World.

This Mayan city located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico was a bustling metropolis in the 5th century. At about two square miles, it is one of the largest cities in the Mayan world. It was a bustling center of commerce, with homes, religious monuments, and even its enclaves within its borders.

Among the best attractions in Chichen Itza is El Castillo, a step pyramid built according to strict scientific and mathematical principles, which is a stunning example of Mayan astronomical knowledge. To pay tribute to one of the most important Mayan gods (Kukulcan), the shadow of a serpent appears on the pyramid twice a year during spring and autumn equinox.

Opening Hours: 8 AM to 4:30 PM Monday to Sunday

Tip: If you’re going by car, get the Chichén Itzá: Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket , and leave early so you can stop and take in extra sights along the way.

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Monte Albán Oaxaca

Mesoamerica’s most important archeological zone lies in what is known as the Oaxaca Valley, home to the region’s most important archeological site. Between 500 B.C. and 800 AD, Monte Albán was a Zapotec metropolis that served as the Zapotec capital for more than a century before being overtaken by the city of Oaxaca in the 16th century.

More than four miles (6.5 square kilometers) of impressive architectural remains are preserved in and around the Great Plaza, which is anchored at its north and south ends by massive platforms.

Monte Albán’s ruins are both a cultural treasure trove and fortification, dating back to the Zapotec era. A ball court, palaces, temples, and an observatory are all part of the complex. You’ll see the city, mountains, and valleys from every angle because it’s 400 meters above the valley floor. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and has been open to visitors ever since.

Opening Times: 8 AM to 4:30 PM Monday to Sunday

Tip: The best time to begin your visit to the Monte Alban site is early in the morning, so it’s best to join a Monte Alban Full Day Tour to make the most of your visit.

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El Tajin, Veracruz

One of Mesoamerica’s largest and most influential cities during the Classical period was El Tajin , a pre-Columbian archaeological site in southern Mexico.

Between the years 600 and 1200 CE, El Tajin, a region of Classic Veracruz culture, saw a boom in the construction of temples, palaces, ballrooms, and pyramids. Until a government inspector discovered the Pyramid of the Niches in 1785, no European had heard of the city since it was destroyed in 1230.

Located in Veracruz, El Tajin is one of the best-preserved and most valuable cities of the Classic era of Mesoamerica. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, El Tajin was named after the Totonac rain god because of its cultural importance and architecture. The use of decorative niches and cement in this architecture is unique to the rest of Mesoamerica and is not seen elsewhere.

Opening Times: 9 AM to 5 PM Monday to Sunday

Tip: Try to go late in the day if you can, because the reddening sky and setting sun are breathtaking when seen from here.

Read More: Guide To Visiting El Tajin

Teotihuacan, Mexico state

Teotihuacan and its pyramids are all that is left of Mesoamerica’s most powerful settlement. When Europeans first arrived in the early 1500s, they found a city that was not only pre-Hispanic but predates the Aztec empire as well.

With its UNESCO World Heritage Site status and proximity to modern-day Mexico City which makes it one of the popular day trips from the capital , Teotihuacan’s pyramids should be on the must-see list of any traveler.

Larger pre-Hispanic pyramids can still be scaled for spectacular views from the top, and many of these ancient engineering marvels are still open to the public.

Pirámide del Sol (Pyramid of the Sun) and Pirámide de la Luna (Pyramid of the Moon) are the two most prominent structures at the sprawling site.

Opening Times: 9 AM to 5 PM (last entry at 3 PM) Monday to Sunday

Tip: Traveling to Teotihuacan during the dry and cool months of November through May is the best for tourists. Try also to visit Teotihuacan on a weekday rather than on a weekend to avoid crowds.

Read More: Guide To Visiting Teotihuacan

Becán, Campeche

When it comes to archaeological sites, Chichen Itza may have been the most well-known, but wait until you see Becan.

There are several Mayan sites near Calakmul in Campeche , but Becan is one of the most impressive and under-appreciated.  One of the many cities that fought Tikal during its heyday, Becan is now a ghost town.

Over the centuries, seven acres of land have been excavated and 20 structures have been opened to the public. You can only imagine how big and complex the city was while you stand in its center. The plazas are large, the pyramids are impressive, and the moat is visible in many places.

Opening Times : 8 AM to 5 PM Sunday to Friday Tip: Bring lots of water and snacks. The site is huge. You’ll need the energy and fluids while exploring.

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Calakmul, Campeche

Calakmul’s Mayan ruins include two enormous pyramids and a vast network of reservoirs that once supplied enough water for 50,000 people.

The site is located in the heart of the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, away from the majority of the area’s tourist attractions. There are howler monkeys and jaguars in this protected jungle near the Guatemalan border.

Even today, visitors can scale these towers to get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding tropical forest, central plaza, and palace complexes. Due to its remote location, there aren’t many visitors to the site, which can be explored for days at a time.

Opening Times: 8 AM to 5 PM Monday to Sunday

Tips: Bring enough water and snacks with you because there are no food stalls on site since it is deep in the jungle.

Coba Ruins

Coba, in contrast to Chichen Itza and Tulum , has remained relatively unknown despite its proximity to these two well-known archaeological sites. Due to its remote location and dense jungle, it wasn’t accessible to the general public until 1970.

As of today, only a small portion is known, but it is one of the largest Mayan cities, covering an area of about 30 square miles. Explore the four square miles of public land with a bicycle rental.

Visitors can still climb to the top of Coba, making it one of Mexico ‘s last remaining archaeological sites.

Nohoch Mul, the main structure, is the pyramid to be scaled. It is reached via a series of narrow, slick stone steps. The view, which stretches for miles across lush jungle, makes it all worthwhile.

Tip: Coba is located deep in the jungle so bring your bug spray. You may also want to join a combined tour like this Tulum and Coba adventure to see more.

Ek' Balam, Yucatán

Ek’ Balam was a city that was mysteriously wiped out in the 8th century. It’s still a jungle-covered wonderland, but the Acropolis is one of the most impressive structures on view.

An enormous jaguar mouth, stucco skulls, and winged figures decorate the Ek’ Balam pyramid, which sits on top of the Acropolis and is known as “the black jaguar.”

Known as “El Torre,” it is one of the Yucatan ‘s largest Mayan structures, measuring more than 500 feet long by 200 feet wide by 100 feet high. It is believed that the ruler Ukil-Kan-Lek-Tok, who ruled in the year AD 800, is buried in the Tower.

Only the city’s core has been excavated, out of the 4 square miles that have been occupied for more than a thousand years.

Today, the Ek Balam ruins are some of the Yucatan ‘s tallest, standing 95 feet high. You’re allowed to climb to the top of the ruins, which will give you a breathtaking view of the peninsula from above the treetops.

Tip: Allow yourself between 1.5 and 2 hours to visit. At the ruins, there are few options for food, and they’re all overpriced. To make your visit more enjoyable, eat something beforehand or bring a snack with you.

Edzna, Campeche

Unlike many other Mayan archaeological sites in the area, Edzna, in the state of Campeche ‘s northernmost region, receives little to no tourist traffic. Known as the Gran Acropolis, its main temple is perched atop a 130-foot platform. An old ball court still stands on the property.

Between AD 400 and 1000, the population of the city reached 25,000. In the year 1,500 BC, the city was abandoned, but historians believe that it may have been inhabited as early as 600 BC.

Uncovered in 1988, the Temple of the Masks is another significant structure. With two faces at its base, it depicts the sunrise and sunset gods respectively.

Tip: If you have the time, it’s a good idea to walk around the ruins of Edzna to see what the site looked like before it was discovered by archaeologists.

Templo Mayor, Mexico state

Templo Mayor, a fascinating archaeological site in Mexico City, is still being excavated today. When Tenochtitlán was built in 1325 as the Aztec capital, this “Greater Temple” was a part of it. There is some belief that the Templo Mayor was the Aztecs’ social and religious center.

A Mayan reclining figure on the temple’s northside dates to the time of its Spanish conquest, while a double pyramid built in the 1400s is part of the temple’s seventh and most recent phase.

It includes a museum where you can learn more about its history. Excavations are still ongoing, so there are still a lot of mysteries to be solved at this Mayan ruin.

Opening Times: 9 AM to 5 PM Tuesday to Sunday

Tip: Archaeological site visitors can get a sense of Aztec culture by wandering the streets near the ruins, but the Templo Mayor Museum has eight exhibit halls that tell the story of the site’s history.

Palenque, Chiapas

Chiapas , Mexico’s southernmost state, is home to one of the country’s most impressive Mayan cities. It was in the 16th century that Palenque’s history was first recorded in writing, but the city has been inhabited since the 3rd century CE.

Even though it may not be the most populous Mayan city, its inscriptions have helped researchers learn more about Mayan history and culture in unprecedented detail.

On the site are hundreds of ruins that were once vibrantly colored with red, blue, and yellow, now a stone gray. There are hundreds of hieroglyphics on display in the Temple of the Inscriptions, the most impressive structure.

In 1987, UNESCO designated the entire area as a World Heritage Site.

Tip: Arrive as early in the day as possible. If you want to avoid the crowds and the heat, this is the best time to visit the ruins, as the mist is still covering the structures. The sight is pure magic and not to be missed.

Tulum, Yucatan

Nearly as well-known as Chichen Itza is Tulum’s coastal ruins. El Castillo, the island’s most recognizable structure, is perched atop a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

One of the most popular attractions in Mexico, the Tulum ruins attract over 2 million visitors each year. The name Zama, which translates to “sunrise,” was given to the area in the early 1700s. It’s not hard to see why: the sunrises in this part of the world are truly breathtaking.

When Zama was at its golden era, it served as a gateway between the Yucatan Peninsula and Honduras and other parts of the Gulf of Mexico region

Opening Times: 9 AM to 3:30 PM Monday to Sunday

Tip: Bring a swimsuit if you plan to visit this location. Sand and water may be too irresistible to resist! Or book a combined day tour like this Tulum and Coba adventure to see more.

Uxmal, Yucatan

Archaeological evidence suggests that 20,000 people once lived in this Mayan city just outside the city of Merida in Yucatan . The city’s name Uxmal translates to “Thrice Built,”. This refers to the city’s tallest structure, The Pyramid of the Magician, which was built on top of existing pyramids and is the tallest structure in the city.

The Ruta Puuc, a Mayan highway that connects neighboring cities, serves as a major gateway to the city. The name Purc meanwhile, pertains to the region snd its architecture.

The city of Uxmal was at its golden age around the year 1000. Eventually, it was abandoned around the year 1500. Uxmal is now a 150-acre UNESCO World Heritage Site with numerous structures that can be scaled by tourists.

Opening Times: 8 AM to 5 PM

Tip: You will be climbing through the temples. The uneven terrain, ancient temples, and the height of the pyramid calls for sturdy walking shoes with a good amount of traction and a good amount of comfort. Some of the temples are incompletely restored.

Xochicalco, Morelos

As a fortified political, religious, and commercial center from the turbulent period of 650–900 following the dissolution of the great Mesoamerican states, Xochicalco is an exceptionally well-preserved example. Xochicalco means “in the house of flowers” in Nahuatl.

Visiting the temples, palaces, sweat baths, ball courts, stelae, and a cave is a worthwhile experience. The views here go on for miles because it’s on a desolate plateau.

Opening Times : 10 AM to 5 PM Monday to Sunday

Tip: The museum and archaeological site entrance fee is approximately 40 pesos or about twice that if you have a video camera, so keep that in mind when planning a trip.

15. Yaxchilan, Chiapas

Yaxchilan, Chiapas

Located in Chiapas , Mexico by the Usumacinta River, Yaxchilan is an ancient Maya city dating back thousands of years. With Piedras Negras as its main rival, Yaxchilan was one of the most powerful Maya states on the Usumacinta River in the Late Classic Period.

A rivalry existed between Yaxchilan and Guatemala’s largest Mayan city, Tikal, which was one of the most important and powerful ancient Mayan cities in the world. Many alliances were formed as a result of its location on the banks of the Usumacinta River.

Visitors to Yaxchilan’s archaeology are drawn to its intricate roof combs, facades, and stone lintels. Plus, the carved stone lintels above the doorways of many of the buildings are a must-see for visitors.

Opening Times : 8 AM to 5 PM Monday to Sunday

Tip: The best way to get here is by boat, so it’s best to go on a tour such as this one.

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

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Hola! Que tal? I'm Christine, a Filipina but in love with Mexico. I used to live in Central America and Mexico is my favorite. Love tacos, tequila, and margarita.

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Kate and Jeremy Storm standing on the edge of a Mayan pyramid in Becan Mexico ruins, facing each other

25 Fascinating Ruins in Mexico to Visit (Mayan, Aztec + Beyond!)

From climbing pyramids to learning about life in Mexico hundreds (or even a thousand) years ago, visiting the many incredible ruins in Mexico–with the Mayan and Aztec ruins being the most famous–is a fascinating experience.

Sure, there are world-famous Mexico ruins like Chichen Itza (and they’re certainly worth a visit), but dive off the beaten path, and you may even find yourself alone for moments at a time amongst all the history.

Over our many trips to Mexico, we’ve explored tons of the country’s fascinating ruins, from the mysterious Teotihuacan near Mexico City to the wonderous Calakmul that is hidden deep in the jungle of Campeche.

With every Mexican archaeological site we visit, we learn even more about the history of the great civilizations that have called Mexico home–and also had a lot of fun ascending pyramids, soaking in views, and ducking into historic buildings along the way.

Tulum ruins overlooking a bright beach, as seen as part of a 10 day Yucatan itinerary

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While the Aztec and Mayan ruins in Mexico are often considered the best-known, the modern country of Mexico has been home to many civilizations and indigenous groups over the past millennia, and you’ll see several different cultures and time periods listed here.

For this blog post, we asked several other travel bloggers to share their favorite Mexico ruins to visit with us, and we received quite a range of responses!

From the iconic to the offbeat, here best ruins in Mexico to explore, left behind by the Mayans, Aztecs, and more.

Table of Contents

Mayan Ruins in Mexico’s Yucatan + Quintana Roo

More southern mexico archaeological sites, mayan + aztecs ruins in north + central mexico, map of the best mexico ruins to visit.

Jeremy Storm's arm reaching out and holding a rope to scale a pyramid in Becan Mayan City Mexico

Chichen Itza

From David and Intan of The World Travel Guy

The colossal Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza definitely belong on any Mexico ruins bucket list!

Historically, Chichen Itza was one of the biggest and most important cities of the Mayan civilization.

The centerpiece of this archaeological park is the giant pyramid known as the Temple of Kukulcán (El Castillo).

Even though you can’t climb it anymore, it’s still a spectacular wonder of the world!

Photo of the main pyramid of Chichen Itza on Mexico Yucatan Peninsula

These ruins are located near the center of the Mexican state of Yucatan, at a distance of about 200 kilometers (125 miles) from Cancun.

You can also combine Chichen Itza with a visit to the colonial city of Valladolid and/or one of the many nice cenotes (natural sinkholes) in the area.

For solo travelers, the most economical way to get from  Cancun to Chichen Itza  is to take the ADO bus.

If you’re traveling in a group, renting a car and driving can also be very cost-effective.

The easiest way to visit Chichen Itza from Cancun (or from elsewhere in the Yucatan peninsula) is to  join a group tour or book a private tour.

Where to Visit Chichen Itza From

Chichen Itza is easy to visit from any of the popular Riviera Maya cities like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

It’s also close to Valladolid.

young woman walking in front of historic buildings chichen itza mexico archaeological sites

Tulum Ruins

From Allison of Viva La Travelista Located just outside of Tulum’s city center, the  Tulum Ruins   were originally built as a seaside fortress and are the only oceanfront Mayan Ruins in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo.  The most noteworthy feature of the Tulum Ruins is the oceanfront location with the ruins elevated at a height of about 39 feet (12 m) above the water, offering spectacular ocean views.

The site also offers a unique public beach access point where visitors can take a dip in the Caribbean Sea after exploring the ruins.  At the Tulum archaeological site, many basic structures and buildings remain including El Castillo (The Castle) and many different temples.

famous tulum ruins with beach in the foreground, one of the best mexico ruins to visit

Visitors can explore the ruins at leisure, and learn about the history of the Mayan people.

The ruins are widespread and there is little shade on site so you’ll want to be prepared for the heat and wear comfortable walking shoes.  The Tulum Ruins are open daily from 8-5.  Located just off the main highway, the ruins can be easily reached by driving or renting a car and paid parking is available on site.

By public transportation, the ruins can also be visited by taking a colectivo (shared van) or the ADO bus from Playa del Carmen or Cancun. 

Where to Visit the Tulum Ruins From

Most visitors will be visiting the Tulum Ruins archaeological site from the nearby beach towns of Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or Cancun. 

kate storm walking toward tulum mexico ruins

Located near Valladolid, so close to yet so far from crowded Mayan archaeological sites like Chichen, you’ll find the stunning Ek Balam.

Once a thriving Mayan city, construction began on Ek Balam as early as 300 BCE, and the city was potentially occupied as late as the 16th century CE. 

It was at its height from roughly 770 to 840 CE, and was the home of around 20,000 people.

Eventually, Ek Balam receded into the jungle, and large pockets of its story remain unknown.

Fast forward all the way to the 1980s, and excavations began in the city.

Kate Storm standing on top of the el torre pyramid in ek balam with jungle visible behind her

Today, only a small portion (about one square mile) of Ek Balam is excavated, including the impressive El Torre pyramid.

Around 45 structures have been mapped, and around 1 square mile (of approximately 12 square kilometers) of the city can be explored today.

Ek Balam is also home to one of the most stunning cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula, the incredible Cenote X’canche.

Don’t miss it when visiting Ek Balam!

Where to Visit Ek Balam From

Ek Balam is most commonly visited from Valladolid, but you can reach it from the Riviera Maya as well.

If you’re visiting from Valladolid, the easiest way is to rent a car and drive , but you can also hop in a colectivo or hire a taxi to visit.

Cenote X'canche as seen on a Yucatan road trip--cenotes like this are well worth seeking out, but be sure you go over the best things to bring on a road trip before you go!

From Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

Kohunlich is a Mayan ruin site 68 kilometers from Bacalar in Quintana Roo, Mexico.

Kohunlich was named after the town nearby because the actual, historic name has been lost to time. 

The site is unique and fun to visit because it’s still largely unexcavated. Only about 10% has been unearthed.

Visitors are often treated to seeing archeologists working on excavation areas within the ruins, which is very different from fully excavated sites like Chichen Itza.

Since the ruins are less popular, there are no rules against climbing the ruins. In addition, even if a cruise ship is in port, visitors have a chance of being the only visitors.

well preserved statue carved into a pyramid in kohunlich

There isn’t a lot of public transportation in southern Quintana Roo, so the only way to get to Kohunlich is to either rent a car or hire a tour.

Regardless of the transportation chosen, take water and snacks.

There are no amenities on-site at the ruins besides a small ranger station and some rustic restrooms. 

Where to Visit Kohunlich From

Located just an hour’s drive from Bacalar and two hours from Mahahual cruise port, Kohunlich is a perfect day trip from either Bacalar or the cruise port.

view from pyramid at kohunlich, one of the best mayan ruins in mexico to visit

Muyil Ruins

From Shelley of Travel Mexico Solo

The Mayan name of Muyil Ruins is  Chunyaxché , though you’ll always see it referred to as Muyil (pronounced moo-yill).

It is an off-the-beaten-path site near  Tulum, Mexico , that’s not super easy to get to without a boat tour.

This is why many people skip it, but Muyil really is worth the effort.

Located just south of Tulum in the Felipe Carrillo Puerto Municipality, Muyil is in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.

This is a one million-acre protected preserve that’s a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The easiest, safest, and best way to visit Muyil Ruins is on a boat tour.

view of turquoise water of sian ka'an reserve near muyil ruins mexico

The quicker road to get there takes about 45 minutes, but you need a 4X4. The longer route can be done by car but takes three hours from downtown Tulum. 

The boat tours to Muyil are great because you get to go out on the waters of Sian Ka’an, and also visit the ruins.

Sian Ka’an has calm, turquoise waters so it’s a great place to swim, and most people usually see some dolphins while boating.

The Muyil Ruins, though they aren’t too far from the Tulum Ruins, look completely different.

At Muyil, you’ll see a tall, steep pyramid that’s similar to Tikal Mayan Ruins in Guatemala , which has the Peten architecture style.

Where to Visit Muyil From

Muyil is located in Quintana Roo state, near Tulum, Mexico.

main pyramid of muyil mexico ruins as seen from the ground

From Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Uxmal is a stunning Mayan ruin located 50 miles south of Merida in the Yucatan state.

The ancient city is known for its unique structures from the Puuc architectural style.

The carved limestone figures on buildings honor the ancient rain god, Chaac.

The importance of water to the Mayan agrarian people in Uxmal was the basis of the ornate stonework honoring Chaac.

The centerpiece of the restored city is the Pyramid of the Magician, which dominates the entrance to the ruins. 

Folk legend has it that a dwarf magician was ordered by the Uxmal king to build the huge pyramid in one night to save his life.

temple of the magician at uxmal mayan ruins in mexico peeking above the tree line

Unlike many Mexican ruins, you can actually climb up the ruins at Uxmal.  

Ascend the stone stairs of the Governor’s Palace to get a panoramic view of the many structures of Uxmal peeking out from the jungle. The Pyramid of the Magician dominates the view.

Uxmal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the outstanding  outdoor adventures of the Yucatan .

It’s less crowded than the neighboring Chichen Itza ruins. Visit in the morning before it gets steamy and hot, with fewer visitors to encounter too.

Where to Visit Uxmal From

Uxmal is about an hour’s drive south of Merida, the capital of the Yucatan state.

There are many tours from Merida to Uxmal or you can rent a car in Merida and drive.

ruins of uxmal as seen from the ground, one of the best mexican archaeological sites

Located in the small town of Xpujil, Becan is one of the most underrated ruins in Mexico to visit (and so far, our personal favorite).

Once a thriving capital city of the Rio Bec province, Becan was a powerful force in its region, featuring a moat surrounding the city, powerful structures built over many centuries, and sprawling plazas.

While the oldest structures in Becan date to as early as 500 BCE, its moat and surrounding walls were constructed somewhere around 100 AD to 250 AD, and the bulk of the more impressive structures were built even much later than that–starting around about 550 AD.

That’s a bit dizzying to imagine, considering we’ve already covered around 1000 years of history there, but Becan was just getting started.

jeremy storm climbing a pyramid mexico ruins becan with help of a rope

It thrived from around the 7th to the 12th centuries, more or less, before the city was eventually abandoned around 1200 AD.

Today, 20 structures have been excavated and are open to visitors, and the size and scale of the city are incredible to imagine when standing in the center of it.

Today, wandering the impressively well-preserved city is a magical experience, greatly enhanced by the fact that it is extremely uncrowded.

Where to Visit Becan From

The Becan ruins are located in Xpujil, about 90 minutes north of Bacalar, and the route makes for an incredibly easy drive , with most of it taking place on the Mexico 186 highway.

If you’d rather not take a day trip, you can spend the night nearby and use the area as a launching pad for visiting Calakmul as we did.

Kate Storm in a tank top and baseball cap sitting on a pyramid in Becan Mexico overlooking another structure

Dzibanche and Kinichna

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Located in Mexico’s Costa Maya region , Dzibanche and Kinichna are two of the most remote Mayan ruins in Quintana Roo.

The two archaeological areas are located next to each other and require a drive on the bumpy road.

Since there is no public transportation to Dzibanche and Kinichna, you can only visit them with a car rental or a guided tour. 

Keep in mind that this area is truly remote. There are no stores, gas stations, or restaurants in the area and after you pass a few small villages on your way to the ruins, your cell phone service could disappear. 

view after climbing pyramid mayan ruins dzibanche

The ruins are visited by no more than a dozen people daily, and it’s not uncommon to have this entire area all to yourself, especially if you come here in the morning.

When you arrive at the site, you will pay a cash fee of 70 Pesos that covers both sites and will enjoy a relaxing walk in the jungle while exploring some of the coolest Mayan ruins where few other tourists venture.

This is a really fun experience that makes you feel like you’re exploring off the beaten path, which you will not have at more popular Mayan ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Since these two ruins are separate, you will need to take a quick drive from Dzibanche to Kinichna which is about 2 kilometers away.

Where to Visit Dzibanche and Kinichna From

The closest city to Dzibanche and Kinichna is Bacalar, but many travelers also visit these archaeological areas from Mahahual, a popular stop for cruise ships in Costa Maya. 

pyramid seen form the ground at dzibanche archaelogical site

From Yulia of Miss Tourist

Thought to have been utilized between 1250 and 1630, the site of El Ray was not only an extremely important part of the Mayan trade route but also a town utilized as a retreat for the royals.

It was after findings of royal belongings were made in the area that the site was named El Rey or “the King”.

Located at the southern end of Cancun island, right in the center of the hotel zone, at first sight, the remains of El Rey may not seem too impressive, however, it is much more than its convenient location which makes this site worth seeing. 

Firstly, while it is located in the heart of one of the busiest areas of Quintana Roo, El Rey provides a welcome respite from the noise as this is one of the more seldom frequented attractions by the mass of tourists who visit the city each year.

Although there are not many full structures still standing today, you can clearly see the outline of where many different buildings once stood.

You can also see two small structures which are believed to have been used as lighthouses or watchtowers. 

tourist walking through mayan ruins mexico cancun, el rey

But the real star of the show here is the iguanas. Dozens of these interesting animals call El Ray home, roaming the ruins and claiming this royal playground as their own.

They make for a good addition to photos and are a cool additional site to see!

Entry to the El Ray ruins costs 55 Mexican pesos (about $2.50) and can be found at KM 18 of the Hotel Zone, reachable by bus, taxi, or rental car via the R1 or R2.

Where to Visit El Rey From

Located amongst some of the best resorts in Cancun , in the heart of the hotel zone, El Rey is easily combined with the many activities the city has to offer. 

iguana sitting on ruins of el rey in cancun

Dzibilchaltun

From Shelley of Travel to Merida

Dzibilchaltún (pronounced zee-bee-shall-tune) is the closest Mayan archaeological site to Merida, Mexico.

With this great location, it’s also one of the  best things to do in Merida , especially for travelers who want to experience real Mayan culture.

The main structure is called the Temple of the Seven Dolls (also known as the Temple of the Sun).

You can’t climb the steps of this temple, but there is another pyramid and a few smaller structures you may climb, all located at the back of the site near the cenote (sinkhole).

seven dolls temple near merida mexico

Besides the ruins, there’s also Cenote Xlacah at Dzibilchaltún Ruins you can swim in.

Don’t forget to bring a bathing suit when you visit because going for a refreshing swim after a long day of climbing ancient pyramids is the best way to cool off — and something you can’t do at most other ruins in Mexico.

There’s also a museum at Dzibilchaltún, the Museo del Pueblo Maya de Dzibilchaltún, with large Mayan artifacts found at sites all over the Yucatan.

Just outside the museum, there’s a small sculpture garden with even more statues and pre-Hispanic artifacts to see.

Where to Visit Dzibilchaltún From

Dzibilchaltún Ruins is located in Yucatan state, near Merida, Mexico.

cenote xlakah near merida mexico

From Isabella of Let’s Travel to Mexico

The archeological site of Coba is one of the most spectacular Mayan ruins in the Quintana Roo State.

The site is one of the more fun to visit but also one with the most interesting history. 

You can get there by local busses or by car, although renting a car would also allow you to visit the amazing nearby cenotes.

Once you are at the site you have the options to walk along the old Sacbe (white roads) that lead you to the groups of temples, or you can rent bikes or take a taxi bike. 

Keep in mind that it is an extensive area so you would want to consider a 2 to 3 hours visit depending on how fast you are.

Jeremy Storm standing in front of a structure at the Coba ruins as seen on a backpacking Yucatan road trip

Among the highlights of Coba, you can appreciate the network of roads that connects Cobá both internally and externally to the other Mayan cities.

Also, note the many stelae that have been found and the 42-meter-high Pyramid of Nohoch Mul. 

Located just a 45-minute drive from Tulum, it is one of the top places you should visit if you are in the area.

Note from Kate : If you visit Coba and discover that Nohoch Mul can be climbed again, please let us know in the comments below! We loved climbing the pyramid in early 2020 but understand that it has been closed off since shortly after our visit.

Jeremy Storm climbing Coba ruins pyramind on a road trip Yucatan itinerary

San Miguelito Ruins and Mayan Museum

From Kenny of Knycx Journeying

The Yucatan Peninsula has no lack of pristine beaches, heritage sites, luxurious resorts, and soothing sunshine.

Most of the tourists come here for  Chichen Itza , one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

To be better prepared for the excursion and learn more about the Mayan history and culture, head first to the Mayan Museum which is located in the city of Cancun and built on a Mayan ruin, San Miguelito. 

The museum opened in 2012 and it is located on Kukulcan Boulevard.

The building is designed by Mexican architect Alberto Garcia Lascurain, covering an area of eight hectares of area with three key exhibition areas.

mayan pyramid in san miguelito cancun mayan museum as seen from the ground

The display showcases an impressive collection of Mayan archaeological artifacts collected from Chichen Itza, which shed light on the lives of the Mayans in ancient times.

Signature items include the state of Quintana Roo, La Mujer de las Palmas (a 12,000-year-old skeleton discovered in a cenote near Tulum), plus valuable potteries, beaded jewelry, funerary masks, and monuments from a number of Mayan sites. 

Another highlight is the archaeological site of San Miguelito at the back of the museum. It was actually a former vibrant Mayan port that connects to the Caribbean Sea.

The port was abandoned during the invasion of Spanish Conquistadors in the 16 th  century.

Today, visitors can still see the remnants of residential housing, a temple, and an eight-meter-high pyramid. 

Where to Visit San Miguelito From

San Miguelito and the Mayan Museum are located in Cancun.

remains of columns under shade of the jungle in san miguelito mayan ruins in mexico

From Ruby of A Journey We Love

Chacchoben is one of the most visited Mayan ruins in Mexico, thanks to the cruise ship guests who visit the ruin as a  Costa Maya shore excursion . 

Chacchoben is located in the south Quintana Roo province of Mexico.

Within a quick trip away is the 7 Colors Lagoon of Bacalar, and it is part of the Sian Ka’an Biospheric Preserve.

This is one of the ruins in Mexico that still allow guests to climb up and explore.

mayan pyramid in chacchoben

Not much is known about Chacchoben, except that it was abandoned and occupied multiple times, and that the earlier settlers arrived in 1000 BC.

Climbing up to the top of the main ceremonial hub of Gran Basamento, one can see the jungle that surrounds the area, and you may even be lucky to see an animal or two.   

Where to Visit Chacchoben From

The closest city you can base yourself in is Chetumal if you opt to fly in.

There are no public transportation options available, so you will have to rent a car to get around.

Alternatively, if visiting on a cruise ship, the closest town is Mahahual, also known as port Costa Maya, which serves as your main base for shore excursions in the area. 

smaller pyramid in chacchoben, one of the best mayan ruins in mexico arcaheological sites

From Isabella of Mexico Cenotes and Ruins

Located on the Riviera Maya, the Xel-ha ruins may be confused with the more popular Xelha Amusement Park –but the archaeological site is a completely different place and experience. 

Unfortunately, almost nobody knows about this little and yet precious archeological site, another important ancient Mayan city, and yet it makes an interesting visit if you are staying in the area. 

The old Mayan city of Xelha used to be one of the most powerful ports on the Caribbean coasts, of strategic importance. 

Nowadays little has been left to visit, but you can still appreciate the murals, some building details, and the natural surroundings. 

There is also a cenote that you can visit, the primary source of water in the ancient civilizations, but you can’t swim in that one. 

cenote that can't be swum in seen from above near riviera maya

Xel-Ha means “water inlet”, which clearly refers to the geography of the place as where is now the Xel-ha amusement park, was a group of natural canals where the boats would come in. 

The Mayan name of the site means Xel, “piece or entrance”, and há means “water”.

Where to Visit Xel-ha From

Getting to Xel-ha is very easy as the entrance is right on the Federal highway that connects Playa del Carmen with Tulum. 

So if you didn’t rent a car you can easily get there by the collectivo (small vans) the most popular public transportation used by locals. Just ask the driver to stop at Xelha ruins (not the park).

tree growing amongst mayan ruins in mexico riviera maya

Monte Alban

Dating from 500 BCE, Monte Alban is one of the earliest cities to be recorded in Mesoamerica, and was the largest cultural center of the Zapotecs (though they weren’t the only people to inhabit the city).

Monte Alban was populated until around 850 CE, and therefore offers nearly 1500 years worth of history to share!

Set just outside of modern Oaxaca City, visiting Monte Alban is a fantastic experience that is packed with structures to explore (including the ceremonial area, which is well preserved), as well as views of the surrounding mountains to enjoy.

monte alban as seen from above, one of the best places to visit in oaxaca

Monte Alban is conisdered the best-preserved and most important Mexican archaeological site in the Oaxaca Valley, and visiting is one of the indisputed best things to do in Oaxaca !

Where to Visit Monte Alban From

As Monte Alban is located only about 6 miles east of modern Oaxaca City, you can easily visit independently by bus.

However, you can book guided archaeological tours as well.

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm at Monte Alban in Oaxaca Mexico--exploring lots of ruins like this is one of our top tips for traveling to Mexico!

From Emily of Emily Embarks

Situated in the Campeche state of Mexico, Calakmul is home to nearly 6,800 different ancient ruin configurations, and yet only brings in, on average, less than 20,000 visitors per year.

Owing to its secluded location, easy access off a major highway, and endless historic beauty, Calakmul is easily one of the best ruins in Mexico!

Best accessed via guided tours due to its remote location within the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, the ruins are truly an exciting experience.

Surrounded by wildlife including monkeys, vast varieties of birdlife, and even the possibility of spotting a wild jaguar, a visit to the Calakmul ruins is well worth the effort.

For visitors with their own car, your best route will be to travel from Xpujil 2 hours south through extremely dense jungle and ill-maintained roads.

Travelers should be sure to  learn some basic Spanish  before visiting on their own, as many of the local population in the area is monolingual.

English-speaking guides also book up far in advance, so be sure to plan ahead if you plan on visiting with a guide.

kate storm standing on top of a pyramid in calakmul, one of the best mayan ruins mexico

Once you arrive, take some time to explore Estructura II.

This is the largest ruin in the area and actually allows visitors to climb it! Just be respectful, please.

You can also get great views from Pyramid 2, and see some incredible architecture at the Mayan Ball Court and the Chiik Nahb Acropolis. 

The secluded ancient ruins site of Calakmul is most commonly visited from Xpujil, which is within close proximity to the border of the Yucatan state.

Where to Visit Calakmul From

Just 90 minutes from the popular tourist town of Bacalar, guests can easily combine a visit to Calakmul with other popular spots along the Yucatan Peninsula.

Note from Kate : When Jeremy and I visited Calakmul, we had our own vehicle and still chose to hire a guide for navigation and context. Guided tours like this are a great value for Calakmul!

staircase leading up a pyramid to climb at calakmul mayan archaelogical sites mexico

Yaxchilan Archaeological Site

From Megan of Packing Up the Pieces

Yaxchilan is an incredible Mayan archaeological site hidden in the Lacandona Jungle in Chiapas in Mexico.

Reaching the ruins is half the adventure, as it is only accessible via a 40-minute long boat ride that twists along the Usumacinta River.

The river acts as a natural border between Mexico and Guatemala and is a dramatic entrance to these spectacular Mayan ruins.

Wander through the site and follow the self-guided tour. Listen closely, you may hear howler monkeys in the backdrop.

Yaxchilan mexico ruins with a statue on the left side

While the Yaxchilan ruins are not as large as other famous sites in Mexico, the isolated location in the heart of the jungle is mystical and can give the impression as if stepping back in time to this once powerful Mayan city.

Since the site is quite remote, walking among the ruins is a truly intimate experience.

Where to Visit Yaxchilan From

Most people will visit Yaxchilan as a long and organized day trip from Palenque .

However, bold travelers can add Yaxchilan and the gateway city of Frontera Corozal as a stop along a Chiapas road trip .

intricate building in yaxichilan ruins mexico chiapas

Set inside the shaded jungle of Chiapas, Palenque is one of the most interesting ruins in Mexico to visit.

This once medium-sized Mayan city in southern Mexico was active from 226 BCE until 799 AD.

How do we know those exact dates?

Unlike some of the more mysterious archaeological sites in the region, Palenque’s history has been able to be largely recovered thanks to the written records left carved into the many intricate buildings.

Palenque, Chiapas, Mexico

The site has now been largely reclaimed from the jungle and features pyramids to climb, buildings to enter, and detailed architecture to marvel at.

It also–unlike many of these Mexico ruins–features plenty of shade thanks to its jungle location, a welcome relief from the heat!

Where to Visit Palenque From

Palenque is popularly visited on day trips from San Cristobal , however, you can also choose to stay in the modern city of Palenque and visit independently from there.

ruins of palenque as seen from above, an amazing stop on a 2 weeks in mexico itinerary

From Julien of Cultures Traveled

Tucked into the mountains and valleys surrounding Oaxaca City is Mitla, the second most important archeological site in Oaxaca.

While smaller than some of the other famous ruins in Mexico, it is no less significant.

Mitla was used as a sacred burial site by the Zapotecs who built it as a gateway between life and death.

The name comes from the Nahuatl word Mictlán, which means “place of the dead.”

It was later occupied by the Mixtecs and continued to be used as an important religious center when the Spanish arrived in the 1500s.

detailed shot of the carvings on the walls of mitla, one of the best things to do in oaxaca

Mitla is also significant for the intricate mosaics that adorn many of the structures.

These geometric patterns are made with small polished stones that are meticulously fitted together without the use of mortar. It is the only archeological site in Mexico with this style of decoration.

Where to Visit Mitla From

A visit to Mitla can easily be incorporated into one of these day trips from Oaxaca .

To get there, take a collectivo to San Pablo de Mitla and walk through the small town to the entrance of the ruin.

The archeological site of Mitla is located an hour east of Oaxaca City on the way to Hierve el Agua.

exterior of an intricately carved building in mitla

Teotihuacan

Sprawling and fascinating, Teotihuacan holds the distinction of one of the most mysterious Mexican ruins to visit.

Well, to start with–it’s not known who built it.

Teotihuacan is believed to have been settled by about 400 BCE and very powerful by 400 AD.

However, when the Aztecs arrived in the 1400s and took it over (they were the people who named it Teotihuacan), the city had been abandoned for centuries.

hot air balloons rising over teotihuacan in the early morning

In addition to its mystery, Teotihuacan is also an incredibly fun archaeological site in Mexico to visit, featuring multiple pyramids to climb.

One of the most popular things to do in Teotihuacan for those in the mood for a splurge is to take a hot air balloon ride over the site in order to appreciate it from above.

Where to Visit Teotihuacan From

Teotihuacan is located about 30 miles northeast of Mexico City, and, along with spots like Tepoztlan , makes for a great day trip.

You can access the site by bus or by booking a guided tour .

3 Days in Mexico City Itinerary: Teotihuacan

Tula Archaeological Site

From Daniel of Layer Culture

Tula ruins are located in the state of Hidalgo and are just 90 kilometers from Mexico City making it the perfect day trip for visitors.

Tula was once the action capital of the Toltecs and the archaeological site that remains today is close to the town of  Tula de Allende  which is situated northwest of Mexico City.

From Mexico City, you can expect a 2 hours journey and if  traveling Mexico by bus , you can head over to  Terminal Norte  and book your ticket with a company named Ovnibus.

Arriving in Tula de Allende the ruins are a 10-minute walk away from the nearest bus stop, or you can take a taxi.

states of toltec warriors at one of the best mexico ruins

For most visitors to this site, the main attraction is the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl which is topped by 5-meter basalt columns that are beautifully carved in the form of the Toltec warriors.

This ancient city thrived from the 9th to the 12th century and the Toltec warriors spread the cult of their feathered serpent god all over the empire: from central Mexico down to Central America.

Most of the local tour guides offer tours in Spanish and each of the landmarks displays descriptions in both Spanish and English.

The site must be seen to be fully appreciated and pyramids are fairly easy to climb for getting pictures of the site.

Where to Visit Tula From

Tula is an excellent day trip from Mexico City.

tula pyramid seen from afar with toltec warrior visible

The Great Pyramid of Cholula

From Bailey of Destionationless Travel

The Great Pyramid of Cholula (also known as Tlachihualtepetl which means “made by hand mountain) is one of the most impressive archeological sites in Mexico.

First of all, this pyramid is the largest by volume in the entire world!

For comparison sake, Teotihuacán measures 220 meters by 230 meters at its base, whereas the Cholula Pyramid is 450 by 450 meters – it’s huge!

Surrounding the pyramid is also the remainder of the ancient city of Cholula. It’s said that this ancient city once had a population of 100,000 people!

You can walk around the different uncovered ruins and read about them on the information boards. 

One thing that is important to note about the Great Pyramid of Cholula is that it is still covered.

In fact, when you arrive, it looks more or less like a big hill in the middle of the city with a church on top of it.

You can actually climb to the top and visit the church if you want. The view from up there is very impressive.

cholula pyramid as seen from the ground, one of the most impressive aztec ruins in mexico

With that said, the best way to explore the Cholula Pyramid is from the inside. When you visit Cholula, you can actually go inside the pyramid and explore the underground tunnel system.

This is a very unique experience and something you won’t experience elsewhere in Mexico.

There are tons of different tunnels inside the pyramid and they total about 8 kilometers long. 

The style of Cholula is often compared to Teotihuacan, as they both are Aztec ruins in Mexico. This also makes sense since both sites are geographically located pretty close to each other. 

Where to Visit the Great Pyramid of Cholula From

The Great Pyramid of Cholula is located in a small town also called Cholula, located only about 4 kilometers from the city of Puebla, Mexico .

You can also visit Cholula on a day trip from Mexico City, but it is about a 2-3 hour drive away.

For this reason, many tourists base themselves in Puebla and visit Cholula from there.

detailed photo of great pyramid of cholula stairs

Guachimontones Pyramids

From Wendy of Empty Nesters Hit the Road

About an hour outside of Guadalajara, in the state of Jalisco, are the Guachimontones Pyramids ; circular, stepped, man-made structures built by the Teuchitlan people.

In fact, these are the only circular pyramids in the world!

It’s estimated they were built around 2,000 years ago.

While there are a few dozen sites in the area with similar pyramids, these are the best preserved and available to the public to view.

Today the pyramids are covered in grass and appear green, but it’s believed that they were originally painted red.

The best way to see Guachimontones is on an organized tour from Guadalajara , especially if you don’t speak Spanish.

round Guachimontones pyramid covered in grass as seen from afar, one of the most unique mexico ruins to visit

A guide will arrange transportation and provide the history of both the pyramids and the region.

The first stop at Guachimontones should be the Visitors Center. A short introductory film with English subtitles gives an overview of the entire area and the history of how it was discovered.

Next, explore the artifacts uncovered through archeological digs.

Then climb the hill to see the pyramids in person. To protect these structures, most cannot be climbed.

However, climbing is permitted on one of the crumbling pyramids which makes a great spot for photos.

Where to Visit Guachimontones From

The best option for overnight accommodations is in Guadalajara, a major Mexican city offering plenty of shopping, dining, and attractions.

man standing in front of Guachimontones pyramid to take a picture

El Templo Mayor

From Katja of Globetotting

Located in the heart of Mexico City to one side of the enormous public square that is El Zócalo, is El Templo Mayor.

The Great Temple was the heart of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan and where, according to legend, the Aztecs saw an eagle perching on a cactus with a snake in its beak.

Today this is the symbol on the Mexican flag.

The Templo Mayor saw many human sacrifices; the stepped pyramid’s staircase is where the bodies of those sacrificed were thrown once they had had their hearts ripped out.

Its gory history might not be for everyone but a visit to El Templo Mayor really is one of the best  things to do in Mexico City .

When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Mexico in 1519 they razed the main ceremonial temple and used stones from the fallen shrine to help build the Metropolitan Cathedral.

statue of a snake head at templo mayor in the heart of mexico city

Amazingly, excavation on this major archaeological site only began in 1978 and much of the ancient Aztec city still lies beneath the modern city streets – it was only in 2011 that a ceremonial platform dating from 1469 was discovered.

Today you can visit what has been excavated of the Great Temple and the accompanying museum showcases all the objects discovered during the excavations. 

Where to Visit El Templo Mayor From

El Templo Mayor is located in the heart of Mexico City, next door to the Metropolitan Cathedral and just steps from the Zocalo.

If you’re visiting Mexico City, this is undoubtedly one of the easiest Mexico ruins to visit!

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

2 photos of mexico ruins, tulum and chichen itza. black and red text reads "25 epic ruins in mexico"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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Exploring Mexico's ancient ruins

John Noble

Jul 12, 2021 • 6 min read

Pyramids of the Sun and Moon on the Avenue of the Dead, Teotihuacan ancient historic cultural city, old ruins of Aztec civilization, Mexico, North America.

Archaeologists have been uncovering Mexico's ancient ruins since the 19th century, and many sites have been restored and made accessible to visitors © Anna Omelchenko / Shutterstock

Mexico’s ancient civilizations were the most sophisticated and formidable in North and Central America. These often highly organized societies didn't just build towering pyramids and sculpt beautiful temples; they could also read the heavens, do complicated mathematics and invent writing systems.

Exploring their sites is an unmissable Mexico travel experience.

Ruins of Palenque, Maya city in Chiapas, Mexico

Ancient Palenque stands at the precise point where the first hills rise out of the Gulf coast plain, and the dense jungle covering these hills forms an evocative backdrop to Palenque’s exquisite Maya architecture. Hundreds of ruined buildings are spread over 6 sq miles (15 sq km), but only a fairly compact central area has been excavated. Everything you see here was built without metal tools, pack animals or the wheel. As you explore the ruins, try to picture the gray stone edifices as they would have been at the peak of Palenque’s power: painted blood red with elaborate blue and yellow stucco details. The forest around these temples is still home to howler monkeys, toucans and ocelots.

Palenque sees more than 1000 visitors on an average day, and visitor numbers spike in the summer vacation season. Opening time is a good time to visit, when it’s cooler and not too crowded, and morning mist may still be wrapping the temples in a picturesque haze.

A hot-air balloon floats near the Pyramid of the Sun, as seen from the Pyramid of the Moon in Teotihuacán, Mexico

Teotihuacán

This complex of awesome pyramids is set amid what was once Mesoamerica’s greatest city. The sprawling Teotihuacán site is comparable to the ruins of the Yucatán and Chiapas for significance, and anyone lucky enough to come here will be inspired by the astonishing technological might of the Teotihuacán civilization. Set 31 miles (50km) northeast of Mexico City, in a mountain-ringed offshoot of the Valle de México, Teotihuacán is known for its two massive pyramids,  Pirámide del Sol (Pyramid of the Sun) and  Pirámide de la Luna (Pyramid of the Moon), which dominate the remains of the metropolis. 

Pirámide del Sol is the world’s third-largest pyramid – surpassed in size only by Egypt’s Cheops (which is also a tomb, unlike the temples here) and the pyramid of Cholula – overshadows the east side of the Calzada de los Muertos. When Teotihuacán was at its height, the pyramid's plaster was painted bright red, which must have been a radiant sight at sunset. Clamber (carefully by rope) up the pyramid’s 248 uneven steps – yes, we counted – for an inspiring overview of the ancient city.

View of El Castillo (Temple of Kukulkan) in Chichén Itzá, Mexico

Chichén Itzá

The most-famous and best-restored of the Maya sites on the Yucatán Peninsula, Chichén Itzá , while tremendously crowded, will still impress even the most jaded visitor. Indeed, its inclusion in the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007 came as no surprise at all. Many mysteries of the Maya astronomical calendar are made clear when one understands the design of the "time temples" here.

The heat, humidity and crowds in Chichén Itzá can be fierce, as can competition between the craft sellers who line the paths. To avoid this, explore the site either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, or consider splashing out on a private tour allowing you access to the site before it officially opens at 8am.

Getting to know Chichén Itzá, the heart of the Maya Empire in Mexico

Pyramid of Magician rising through the jungle at Uxmal, Mexico

Pronounced oosh-mahl , Uxmal's size and uniqueness make it a fascinating stop for ruin-lovers and novices alike. The top draws are the oddly shaped Magician's House, the Pigeon House (a structure with a delicate roof comb still standing that resembles pigeon houses) and the vast Governor's Palace. Part of the Puuc region, it is an unmissable stop if you're in the area. For an additional cost, Uxmal projects a nightly light-and-sound show.

Aerial view of Monte Albán archaeological site on mountain-top above Oaxaca City, Mexico

Monte Albán

The city from which the ancient Zapotecs once ruled Oaxaca's Valles Centrales, Monte Albán towers more than 1300 feet (400m) above the valley floor from a hilltop a few miles west of Oaxaca. Monte Albán is one of Mexico's most culturally rich archaeological sites, with the remains of temples, palaces, tall stepped platforms, an observatory and a ball court all arranged in orderly fashion, with wonderful 360-degree views over the city, valleys and distant mountains. Monte Albán traces its roots to 500 BC and its 1300-year history is usually split into five archaeological phases. The city reached its apex between AD 300 and 700, but was abandoned long before the Spanish arrived in the 1520s.

While busy compared to other Oaxaca archaeological sites, Monte Albán avoids the tour-bus circuit of some of the better-known ruins around Mexico City and Cancún.

Mayan Ruins seen by the ocean near Tulum, Mexico

The ruins of Tulum preside over a rugged coastline, a strip of brilliant beach and green-and-turquoise waters that'll leave you floored. It’s true the extents and structures are of a modest scale and the late-post-Classic design is inferior to those of earlier, more grandiose projects – but, wow! Those Maya occupants must have felt pretty smug each sunrise. You can see (at a premium price) the sunrise yourself on a sunrise tour. Late-risers may prefer the sunset tour, though the sun sets over the jungle, not the sea.

Tulum is a prime destination for large tour groups. To best enjoy the ruins without feeling like part of the herd, you should visit them early in the morning, another benefit of the sunrise tour.

Calakmul is a magnificent experience, made even better by its history as a leading city from around AD 250. Many buildings survive, evoking a sense of a powerful place, and getting there – its serious remoteness – makes it all the more special. But visiting Calakmul is not just a historical experience, it's also an ecological one. Lying at the heart of the vast, untrammeled Reserva de la Biosfera Calakmul (which covers close to 15% of the state’s total territory), the ruins are surrounded by rainforest and a seemingly endless canopy of vegetation. You might glimpse ocellated turkeys, parrots, toucans and more – around 350 bird species reside or fly through here. You'll no doubt see or hear spider and howler monkeys, too. You're much less likely to spot a jaguar – one of five kinds of wildcat in the area – but it's not impossible.

The walls of the palace at the Purepecha ruins of Tzintzuntzan, Mexico, overlooking Pátzcuaro Lake

Tzintzuntzan

The site of Tzintzuntzan comprises an impressive group of five semicircular reconstructed temples known as yácatas , which are all that remain of the mighty Purépecha empire. The hillside location offers wonderful views of the town, lake and surrounding mountains and is rarely crowded. A small but well-curated museum showcases finds from the site, including jewelry and pottery. Don't miss the replica of the Ihuatzio coyote. Down the hill to the east there are some boulders with carved petroglyphs of barely recognizable deities. A small info point and some flowering bushes highlight a project that's trying to entice the once-abundant hummingbird back to the area; "Tzintzuntzan" means "place of the hummingbird" in Purépecha.

Five-level pyramid at Edzna, Mexico

Edzná ’s massive complexes, which once covered more than 6.5 sq miles (17 sq km), were built by a highly stratified society that flourished from about 600 BC to the 15th century AD. During that period, the people of Edzná built more than 20 complexes in a melange of architectural styles, installing an ingenious network of water-collection and irrigation systems. Edzná means "House of the Itzáes," a reference to a predominant governing clan of Chontal Maya origin. Most of the visible carvings date from AD 550 to 810. The causes leading to Edzná’s decline and gradual abandonment remain a mystery; the site remained unknown until its rediscovery by farmers in 1906.

You might also like: Mexico has 11 beautiful new "magical towns" to explore Where to find cenotes, Mexico's amazing natural swimming holes Mexico's family-friendly destinations to explore with kids

This article was first published November 2012 and updated July 2021

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The 10 Best Aztec and Mayan Ruins in Mexico

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See recent posts by Katherine Alex Beaven

Mexico is famous for its gorgeous beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and delicious food. It's also teeming with history, art, and culture, and there's no better way to experience all three than by visiting one of the country's many stunning ancient ruins. Standing in front of these stone structures (some of which date back to 600 B.C.) is not only inspiring and humbling -- it's mind-blowing. There is still so much we don't know about the ancient, yet well-advanced, Mayan and Aztec civilizations, and nearly everything we do know has come from the excavation and exploration of these ancient areas. Below, we rounded up the 10 best Mayan and Aztec ruins in Mexico, so you can take your own walk through history, whether that means climbing to the top of the tallest pyramid, biking through a 1,500-year-old city, or taking a dip in the ocean behind the ruins of an old port city. 

1. Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza; Paul Simpson/Flickr

Chichen Itza; Paul Simpson/Flickr

Chichen Itza just might be Mexico’s most famous set of ruins. Located in the Yucatan Peninsula , this ancient town is a result of a large and diverse population, which is reflected in the varying architectural styles and techniques found throughout the site. It’s considered to be one of the best examples of Mayan-Toltec civilization in the area. According to records and research, it was first founded and settled by the Maya people in the early to mid-400s. A half-century later, the town was conquered by the Toltecs and additional buildings were erected. Unfortunately, the city is believed to have fallen somewhere around 1440 A.D., and was then left abandoned in the jungle for 500 years until modern-day excavations began. 

Chichen Itza’s ruins are in great shape, giving guests a privileged glimpse into an ancient life. The most famous building is the Temple of Kukulcan, a towering step-pyramid in the center of the city. At one time, visitors were able to climb up this stunning ruin, though wear and tear eventually led to closed access. Still, Chichen Itza receives over two-and-a-half million tourists each year and is one of Mexico’s most-visited archeological sites.  

2. Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan; Angel Gonzalez Hereza/Flickr

Teotihuacan; Angel Gonzalez Hereza/Flickr

Construction on Teotihuacan is thought to have begun around 100 B.C., though it’s believed that the building of this large Mesoamerican city continued for the next 350 or so years. In its heyday, it was the most populated city in the Americas, clocking in at over 125,000 citizens. Incredibly, its ancient structures consisted of multi-level residences — akin to modern-day apartments — built to house the large population. Located in the Valley of Mexico, these architecturally-significant ancient ruins can be found just 25 miles outside of Mexico City. Other big finds from this archeological site include obsidian tools, well-preserved murals, and a system of complex buildings. Unfortunately, many of the original monuments were burned down around 550 A.D. The city itself holds a place in mythological history as a birthplace of the gods, and, in Aztec religion, it is specifically believed to be the origin of the sun. However, there is great mystery surrounding the exact origin of the city itself, along with its original founders. 

Tulum Ruins; Christian Cordova/Flickr

Tulum Ruins; Christian Cordova/Flickr

Tulum’s gorgeous beachside ruins have became an increasingly popular attraction as tourism in the town has exploded. These Mayan ruins, located in the Riviera Maya and just a 10-minute drive or 30-minute walk from Tulum town — date back to the 13th century. Built directly on the cliffs and up against the ocean, Tulum back then was an important port city, trading precious stones. However, there’s a bit of mystery around why this seaside city was also protected by an approximately 30-foot-thick stone wall. Were they protecting nobility and priests housed in the interior or valuable trade goods? Or, do the walls have a deeper, more secret purpose? The biggest draw here is the cliffside Castillo, the largest and most impressive structure. The rest of the site is filled with mostly destroyed remnants of buildings (though there is ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation work), and the views, especially at sunrise, are breathtaking. It’s believed that Tulum was functioning until the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century. 

Nohuch Mul at Coba; Jason Ramos/Flickr

Nohuch Mul at Coba; Jason Ramos/Flickr

At its peak over 1,500 years ago, Coba was one of the largest cities in Mayan history. Covering over 50 miles of dense jungle, it was home to more than 50,000 Mayans and what archeologists now believe to be one of the most important sets of ancient ruins in the Yucatan. Today, it makes for an excellent day trip from Tulum — and, more importantly, it’s one of the remaining sites you are allowed to climb. That’s right, you can strap on your sneakers and climb 120 steep steps to the top of Coba’s main pyramid ruins, Nohoch Mul. Climbers are rewarded with 180-degree views over the jungle and Coba site itself, which may leave you more breathless than the climb. Although this feat is the ancient city’s main draw, don’t overlook the rest of the site, which is best explored by renting a bike. Don’t forget the mosquito repellant and bug spray — or the fact that this magnificent ruined site once ruled over the region. 

5. Monte Alban

Monte Alban: Eduardo Robles Pacheco/Flickr

Monte Alban: Eduardo Robles Pacheco/Flickr

If you’re in Oaxaca and looking for a quick half-day trip through history, the pre-Columbian ruins of Monte Alban are less than 20 minutes outside of the city. Initially built around 500 B.C., Monte Alban is believed to have been the capital of the Zapotec nation — one of the earliest groups to thrive and grow in the Oaxaca area. The city remained a capital for about 1,300 years, boasting a population of up to 25,000 people, until it was eventually abandoned due to depleted resources. Research also suggests that Monte Alban had communication with Teotihuacan, another important Mesoamerican city. Today, the ruins of Monte Alban — a designated UNESCO World Heritage site — live on as one of the most significant sites in the area. It’s well-known for its numerous carved stone monuments, most of which resemble mangled or twisted figures thought to represent citizens that were human sacrifices and war prisoners. The 20-meter-thick walls also suggest that people of great power resided within them. 

6. Palenque

Palenque; Carlos Adampol Galindo/Flickr

Palenque; Carlos Adampol Galindo/Flickr

Palenque is a favorite for its romantic jungle location in Chiapas. The city came to its peak between 500 to 700 A.D. and is celebrated for its structural creativity and craftsmanship. Over 1,400 buildings have been discovered here, yet only around 10 percent have been explored. The ruins themselves are well-preserved and are therefore one of the best-known representations of the Mayan’s classical period. The site has also opened up a wealth of information on how the Mayans lived, thanks to well-preserved hieroglyphic inscriptions found within the Temple of the Inscriptions, a funeral tomb for the seventh-century ruler of Palenque, K’inich Janaab’ Pakal. We also love the mystical air that the surrounding lush jungle and hanging mist give Palenque. (Tip: It also makes for some great photo ops!)

Uxmal; r345678/Flickr

Uxmal; r345678/Flickr

Another significant set of ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula, Uxmal is grouped with important sites like Chichen Itza and Palenque. This 1,500-year-old site is particularly celebrated for its representation of Puuc buildings, which are considered to the be ruling architecture style for the area. Unlike the stepped pyramids found in places like Chichen Itza, the buildings here have smooth sides and a structure that mimics a traditional hut. Also unlike many other ruins, much of Uxmal is surprisingly intact and/or in good condition. One of the most stunning (and likewise most popular) buildings here is the five-leveled Pyramid of the Magician. Because of its architectural significance, this UNESCO World Heritage site has gotten a lot of attention by way of renovations, but there hasn’t been much planned excavation. If you’re over in Merida, it’s just an hour-and-15-minute drive down to Uxmal, making it a worthy day trip. 

8. Calakmul

Calakmul: Rafael Saldana/Flickr

Calakmul: Rafael Saldana/Flickr

Just 20 miles from the Guatemalan border, you’ll find the ancient Mayan city of Calakmul. While most of the ruins on this list are easily accessible, Calakmul has a more remote location deep in the jungle of the Yucatan Peninsula. Like Coba, Calakmul is thought to have a large population of about 50,000 people. It’s believed that construction of this huge city started around 550 B.C., though there is also evidence of a large-scale remodeling in the fifth century. Over 6,700 buildings have been discovered here, and perhaps due to the ancient city’s out-of-the-way location, several pieces have survived with surprising detail intact. For example, some of the several intricately carved stone slabs still have their original pigmentation. Two things that make this site one of our favorites? One: The remote location means no swarms of tourists. Two: It’s home to the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan (and it’s the second-tallest Mayan pyramid ever discovered). Plus, you can climb its soberingly steep steps for stunning, unforgettable views over the surrounding jungle-scape. 

9. Ek Balam

Ek Balam; Just Booked a Trip/Flickr

Ek Balam; Just Booked a Trip/Flickr

Yet another set of ruins found in the Yucatan Peninsula, Ek Balam, meaning “black jaguar” in Mayan, is a tourist-favorite and thought to possibly be the seat of the Tlalol kingdom. This ancient Mayan city peaked around the late Classical period between 600 to 850 A.D. In addition to housing numerous well-preserved sculptures, Ek Balam is known for the preserved plaster tomb of king Ukit Kan Lek Tok. For sweeping views over the Riviera Maya (and out to Coba on clear days), climb the Acropolis pyramid. This is a small city with only 45 buildings, but they are remarkably intact compared to other Classical-period structures like Coba. And although Ek Balam is gaining in popularity — it’s often tacked onto day trips out to Chichen Itza, which is only an hour away — it remains relatively less crowded. 

Tula; Russ Bowling/Flickr

Tula; Russ Bowling/Flickr

Located about 90 minutes north of Mexico City, the ancient ruins of Tula are known for the 13-foot-high Toltec warrior columns made of basalt atop the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, a Mesoamerican feathered serpent god. Compared to other sites in the area, there’s not as much known about Tula or its significance alongside other settlements. However, the city does show up in Aztec mythology, and we know that it began to flourish following the fall of Teotihuacan before becoming abandoned around 1150, probably due to lack of resources. During its existence, it grew from a small settlement, known as Tula Chico, with around 20,000 citizens, to Tula Grande, a large, thriving city with a potential population of 60,000. For now, Tula seems to spark more questions than answers. 

You’ll Also Like:

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19 Fascinating Ruins in Mexico You Need to Visit

Thanks for reading! If you enjoy this post, please join my FREE Mexico Travel 101 course for even more Mexico travel insights, and follow me on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram !

which ruins to visit in mexico

Keen to explore some of the archaeological sites in Mexico? Check out the best ruins in Mexico to help you decide which sites warrant a spot on your Mexico itinerary.

Mexico was home to many fascinating pre-Colombian civilizations, and many of them left behind incredible ruins that are now open to the public. There are thousands of archaeological sites within Mexico, and nearly 200 are open to visitors.   

Some of the most popular ruins in Mexico, sites like Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan, welcome millions of visitors each year. But Mexico is also host to a plethora of lesser-known but equally impressive sites which are not nearly as crowded. Wherever your Mexico travels take you, there’s bound to be an ancient ruin nearby! 

If you’re curious about Mesoamerica and want to learn about pre-Colombian cultures, visiting one (or several) of these sites should be on your Mexico bucket list .

For this article, I teamed up with some fellow travel bloggers to highlight the breadth of the different ruins found in Mexico. Hopefully this extensive yet nowhere-near-exhaustive list will inspire you to learn about some of Mexico’s ancient civilizations. 

which ruins to visit in mexico

Quick Tips for Visiting Archaeological Sites in Mexico

Before we dive into learning about all the different ruins in Mexico, here are some general tips to help your visit go more smoothly.  

  • Go with a guide: Most Mexican archaeological sites offer no form of interpretative signage. Unless you’re already familiar with the site’s history, you’ll end up feeling like you’re staring at a bunch of old rocks. …which you are… but the ruins really come alive when you have an expert explaining who put them there and why. Investing in a guide is well worth it. The most famous ruins have guides for hire on-site, but smaller ones may not. In my experience, guides usually speak both English and Spanish. Booking a full tour of Mexico’s ruins is another excellent way to go, as it will simplify transportation. Viator and Get Your Guide are my two favorite companies for booking tours. 
  • Rent a car: Unless you visit with a tour group, the logistics of getting to many of Mexico’s ruins can be complex. Renting a car gives you complete flexibility of schedule and makes it easier to reach off-the-beaten-path destinations. My favorite car rental organization is Discover Cars – they search across several providers to find you the most competitive rates.  
  • Bring water: Most of these archaeological sites are large and require a lot of walking. You’ll be able to find bottled water on-site, but it’s always easier to show up prepared, so you don’t have to waste time on a water detour or pay inflated prices. Carry a refillable bottle and purchase more along the way if necessary.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: Again, many of these sites are large, and you’ll do a lot of walking (and possibly even climbing the structures). You’ll have more fun if your feet are comfortable. I recommend a pair of lightweight, breathable running shoes.
  • Carry cash: Mexico has a cash-based economy, which holds true at the ruins. Whether you want to hire a guide, purchase souvenirs or snacks, or tip your guide, having a few small bills will come in handy. You may be able to find an ATM on-site, but it’s best to come prepared.
  • Bring sun protection: Most times, exploring Mexico’s archaeological sites involves prolonged sun exposure. Pack sunscreen , a hat, and a sun cover-up of some sort to avoid getting burnt. 
  • Bring bug repellant: This isn’t necessary at arid sites like Teotihuacan, but for ruins in the Mexican jungle-like Palenque or Tajín, bug repellant will substantially improve your quality of life. 
  • Sundays are free for locals: All of Mexico’s ruins are free for Mexican residents and Mexican citizens on Sundays, so prepare for crowds. If you are a resident or citizen, bring your INE card to receive free admission on Sundays. 
  • Sites may be closed on Mondays: Many of Mexico’s attractions are closed on Mondays, including archaeological sites. 
  • A note on cameras: This tip applies on a case-by-case basis, but I think you’ll still appreciate having a head’s up. If your camera appears to be “professional,” you may be forced to pay a fee to enter with it. I encountered this at Chichen Itza with my GoPro– it was on a selfie stick, which, I guess, made it seem professional, and I had to pay 100 pesos extra to take it in with me. If you have a professional-looking camera, just stash it in your backpack before heading in to avoid this additional charge. 
  • Don’t expect to climb on the ruins: Sure, it’s kinda fun, but having thousands (or even millions) of visitors climbing all over Mexico’s ancient ruins is really detrimental to their physical integrity. There are a few sites where you can ascend the pyramids (Cobá, Teotihuacan), but many do not allow this. Wherever you go, be mindful that these ruins are thousands of years old and, in many cases, have been painstakingly excavated and restored by experts. 

Ruins in Mexico Map

I’ve plotted each archaeological zone mentioned in this article on the map below. Use it to find the locations of Mexico ruins near you! 

The Best Ruins in Mexico

Templo Mayor ruins in Mexico City

1. Templo Mayor, Mexico City

Sitting right on Mexico City’s Zócalo, Templo Mayor was once the main temple of the Mexica kingdom of Tenochtitlan. It is one of many fascinating sites in Mexico City’s Centro Historico . 

This site is particularly striking because you can view the impressive ruins and the colonial buildings of the zocalo at the same time. This contrast serves as a stark reminder of the weight of colonialism. The Spanish literally dismantled parts of the temple and used the same stones to build a church (the Metropolitan Cathedral) right on top of it. It’s haunting.

There is a museum ( Museo del Templo Mayor ) adjacent to the cathedral where you can tour the excavated portion of the ruin and browse a collection of Mesoamerican artifacts. You can view part of the excavated ruins without paying for entrance to the museum, but going inside will help you learn more about what you’re looking at. 

If you don’t have time to visit the famed anthropology museum , this is a smaller, more digestible alternative. Opt for a guide so you can learn about the significance of Templo Mayor and more fascinating details about Mexica history. Take a guided walking tour of the historical center if you’d like to learn about this ruin within the broader context of Mexico City’s history. 

A visit to the Templo Mayor Museum will take 1 to 2 hours. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM. 

Tlatelolco and the Plaza de las 3 Culturas are a fascinating archaeological site in Mexico City

2. Tlatelolco and the Plaza de las 3 Culturas, Mexico City

By Bella of Passport & Pixels

Most history-lovers visiting Mexico City will make a beeline for Templo Mayor, the magnificent temple that used to be at the heart of the Aztec capital city, Tenochtitlan. But if you want to know more about the Aztecs and Mexican history, then there’s another site you definitely should not miss: Tlatelolco.

Situated about a 30-minute walk north of Templo Mayor, Tlatelolco was the second most important city in the Aztec Empire. Where Tenochtitlan was the spiritual and religious heart, Tlatelolco was the center of commerce, the ‘Wall Street’ of the Aztec world. The main market was the busiest in the Empire, with around 25,000 visitors coming to trade goods every day. 

Just like Tenochtitlan, Tlatelolco had its own impressive central temple, the ruins of which you can still see today. There are also dozens of other smaller temples and structures, including a calendar temple covered with carvings and a round temple that was discovered underneath the shopping center next door.

After the Spanish conquest in 1521, the Spanish tore down the temple and used the stones to build their own church on the same spot. 

Today the square next to the church is known as the Plaza of 3 Cultures – where you can see Aztec, Spanish, and modern Mexican influences side by side. 

The site is about the same size as Templo Mayor but doesn’t have a museum. A visit should take you no more than an hour or two. Visit Tlatelolco, Teotihuacan, and the Shrine of Guadalupe on a full-day tour from Mexico City!  

Pyramid of the Moon, Teotihuacan Mexico

3. Teotihuacan, Estado de Mexico

Located just an hour from Mexico City, Teotihuacan is one of Mexico’s most famous ruins and an essential stop on your Mexico City itinerary . This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, among other structures. 

At its height, sometime between the 1st and the 7th century CE, Teotihuacan was one of the largest cities in the Americas. By the 8th Century, the city had been abandoned. It remained that way until the Aztecs claimed in the 1400s. Teotihuacan now welcomes over 4 million visitors each year. 

You can stroll the Avenue of the Dead, a 1.5-mile stretch extending from the Temple of Quetzalcoatl to the Pyramid of the Moon. The Avenue of the Dead is flanked by the Pyramid of the Sun and many other intriguing structures. You can climb to the top of the Pyramid of the Sun and take in panoramic views of the entire site. 

Teotihuacan makes a great day trip from Mexico City , and you can get there using public transportation. The entire trip will take 6 to 8 hours if you go this route.

There are very few interpretive signs within the Teotihuacan site, so hiring a guide is the best way to learn about the significance of these ruins. There are guides for hire when you enter the site, or you can join a guided tour. 

On my most recent visit to Teotihuacan, I went with a tour group , and it was well worth it. Not only did it include round trip transportation, but the guide spoke English and Spanish and shared a ton of fascinating historical anecdotes. You also get to stop off for a quick tequila tasting! 

There is no shade at this Mexican archaeological site, so pack sunscreen and plenty of water. 

Traveling soon? Don’t forget to buy travel insurance for Mexico. Insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing you can get the help you need if anything goes wrong. SafetyWing is the provider that I recommend.

which ruins to visit in mexico

4. Xochicalco, Morelos

By Jordan of Inspired by Maps

Xochicalco is an exceptionally well-preserved complex of ruins in Mexico and one of the least touristy. Given its proximity to Mexico City , this is rather curious, but don’t be fooled – it is well worth the effort to get here. 

Xochicalco is a fortified city with grand military infrastructure dating back to around 650 CE. This was a fraught period in Mexico’s history following the break-up of great Mesoamerican states such as Teotihuacan and Tikal, and therefore defensive was paramount. Hidden high on a mountain summit, at Xochicalco you can easily spend a day exploring the extensive system of ramparts, moats, palisades, bastions, and citadels that offers its 20,000 residents protection. 

The exquisitely sculptured reliefs on the sides of most ruins structures also make the site unique—especially the temple of a sacred feathered serpent, which is worth a visit in its own right. The carvings around Xochicalco are so detailed in form and style that it is speculated that Xochicalco may have housed artisans from across Mesoamerica. 

There is also a well-preserved pyramid, ball game courts, sacrificial altars, a cave that receives light only on the summer solstice, and plenty of awe-inspiring views. The entry ticket there costs $59 MXN / $3 USD.

If you prefer a tour, this full-day excursion from Mexico City combines a visit to the ruins with a tour of the nearby city of Cuernavaca.   

the ruins in Cholula mexico are easily mistaken for a hill given that they are buried under the soil and have a church sitting on top.

5. The Great Pyramid of Cholula, Puebla

The Great Pyramid of Cholula is an archaeological zone in central Mexico. Located just outside of the city of Puebla in the city of Cholula, this Toltec-Chichimec pyramid was built as a temple for the god Quetzalcoatl between the 3rd Century BCE and the 9th century CE. 

At one point, this site was home to the second-largest city in Mexico , with around 100,000 inhabitants. Due to the proximity of Teotihuacan, it’s no surprise that the site bears some architectural features of the famous Aztec pyramids outside Mexico City. Interestingly, it also exhibits influences from the civilizations found along the Gulf of Mexico, such as El Tajin.  

The Cholula pyramid is the largest in the world by volume. In fact, the structure’s Nahuatl name, Tlachihualtepetl, means “man-made mountain.” Fitting, right? It looks like a mountain, too, given that it’s mostly underground. It is unclear how the structure became buried in soil, but the fact that the Spanish constructed a church on top of it only serves to conceal its true identity.

The pyramid is still an active archaeological site, and you can tour the labyrinth of underground passages that have been excavated within the structure. Afterward, head up the hill to the Our Lady of Remedies church to admire the architecture and the panoramic views of the area. 

Admission to the site costs about $4. Allow 1 to 2 hours for exploration. The Cholula ruins make a great day trip from Puebla or Mexico City. Tours from CDMX will combine a visit to the city of Puebla to round out the experience.   

View of the Mexican ruins of Cacaxtla

6. Cacaxtla, Tlaxcala

Located in the tiny state of Tlaxcala, just under two hours from Mexico City and less than one hour from Puebla, Tlaxcala is a state that remains off the beaten path in Mexico . The Olmeca-Xicalanca ruin of Cacaxtla suffers the same fate. 

Cacaxtla rose to prominence when the nearby city of Cholula collapsed and became the dominant power within the Tlaxcala-Puebla valley until approximately 900 CE.

Though it is believed to have been the primary seat of the Olmec empire and was a powerful city overall, Cacaxtla was much smaller than other prominent cities. The population is estimated to have been under 10,000 residents– significantly fewer than Cholula, Teotihuacan, or Tajíin! Experts believe that Cacaxtla’s secret to success was their control of significant trade routes through the neighboring mountains. 

Cacaxtla is currently an active archaeological site, but visitors are welcome Tuesday through Sunday from 8 am to 5:30 pm. Admission costs 75 pesos / $3.50 USD.  

I visited Cacaxtla in 2010, and the archaeologists at work seemed shocked to have any visitors, but they happily showed us around. It was pretty cool having the opportunity to peer over the shoulders of archaeologists at work! 

a partially restored mural at the ancient Mexican ruins of Cacaxtla

What is most striking about this site is that some of the structures feature painted murals. These murals are thought to be some of the oldest in all of Mexico, dating back to 700 CE. Originally these murals would have extended along the bases of entire structures.

When I visited, several meters of the murals had been excavated and restored– I’m sure there are even more now!

If you find yourself in Puebla and fancy visiting some off-the-beaten-path ruins, join a tour of Cacaxtla to learn about pre-Hispanic cultures. After visiting the ruin, take a stroll through the historic center of Tlaxcala and enjoy a meal on the zocalo. It’s a charming, quaint city where you’re unlikely to meet any other travelers!    

Landscape view of the El Tajin ruins in Veracruz, Mexico

7. El Tajín, Veracruz

El Tajín is a pre-Hispanic city located near the town of Papantla, Veracruz. Once one of the largest and most influential civilizations in Mesoamerica, Tajín is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved ruins in Mexico. Set against the lush jungles of Veracruz, this site has a truly remarkable setting. The site’s layout is said to mimic the skyline of the hills surrounding the area.

El Tajín, which means “thunder” in the Toltec language, was at its height between the 9th and 13th centuries. Experts believe it was once home to as many as 20,000 inhabitants, but they remain unsure who originally built it. It is commonly attributed to the Totonacs, though the Huastecs are contenders too. 

Touring the ruins, you’re sure to be impressed by the intricate details found within the architecture. Archaeologists have identified at least 150 structures within El Tajíin, but only about 20 have been excavated. Still, this is one of the most extensive archeological sites in Mexico. 

The Pyramid of the Niches is an impressive Mexico temple found at El Tajin

One of the site’s most notable structures is the Pyramid of the Niches, with 365 painted recesses on its sides. Over 12 different ball courts have been discovered within Tajín, suggesting it was an important ceremonial site. 

The nearby town of Papantla is where the famous Voladores de Papantla are believed to have originated. You can see these incredible flying dancers perform at the entrance of El Tajín. 

You can visit El Tajín on a full-day tour from Veracruz City , but note that the travel time between Veracruz and Papantla is approximately 3.5 hours each way. For a more relaxed trip, plan to stay in the seaside town of Tecolutla, Veracruz, on either end of your Tajín visit . Take the ADO bus from Tecolutla to Papantla (it takes about an hour), and then catch a taxi to El Tajin. 

It may be off-the-beaten-path, but in my opinion, Tajin is one of the best ruins in Mexico. 

which ruins to visit in mexico

8. Monte Alban Archaeological Zone, Oaxaca

Monte Alban is an ancient Mexican ruin in the Oaxaca Valley. It has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site, along with the nearby city of Oaxaca, for its significance within ancient civilizations and its impressive architecture. The site holds several fascinating pyramid structures, elaborate terraces, and a network of underground tunnels, all of which were essentially carved from the side of a mountain. Thanks to its elevation, Monte Alban also offers sweeping views of the valley of Oaxaca. 

Monte Alban was established around 500 BCE, making it one of the earliest Mesoamerican cities. It was central to the Zapotec civilization for over a thousand years before declining around 800 CE. The site was once one of the largest cities in Mesoamerica, with an estimated population of about 17,000 inhabitants. After the Zapotec civilization fell, Monte Alban was inhabited by the Mixtecs until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. 

which ruins to visit in mexico

The main plaza of Monte Alban is bookended by platforms on the north and south ends, accessible by steep stone staircases. There are several smaller platforms on the east and west sides. There are also two ballcourts and structures that are thought to have been used as residences. 

Monte Alban is one of the few archaeological sites in Mexico that holds a museum! It’s small, but inside you’ll find artifacts found on the site and exhibits offering insight into the architecture and how the site was used by its inhabitants. 

Located just 30 minutes from Oaxaca City, a visit to this site is an essential stop on your Oaxaca itinerary. Join a Monte Alban tour to learn about the area with a certified guide. Transportation is included, so all you need to do is show up! 

pyramid temple at Palenque ruins in Chiapas, Mexico

9. Palenque, Chiapas

Palenque is a Mayan ruin in the Mexican state of Chiapas. In 1987 this archaeological site was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status for its incredible art and architecture, testimony to Maya mythology, and considerable influence throughout the Maya empire. It is one of the most important Mayan ruins of Mexico. 

The most notable within Palenque is the Temple of the Inscriptions, a pyramid built to honor the ruler Pacal the Great. The pyramid holds Pacal’s tomb and carvings and hieroglyphs that illustrate events from his life.

Another collection of pyramids, known as the Temple of the Cross Complex, contains hieroglyphs and carved tablets detailing the purpose of each temple and information about the gods that were believed to rule Palenque. 

There’s a small museum on-site at the Palenque ruins to help you contextualize what you see within the grounds. 

Palenque is a compelling ruin to visit not just for the variety of different structures but also for the setting. The site is surrounded by the lush jungles of Chiapas, where you can spot native birds and all kinds of different plants. It has a true Lost World feel!

The admission fee for Palenque is about $3.5 USD, but you will also have to pay a National Park fee, a camera fee (if you want to snap photos), and a fee for a van from the gates into the archaeological zone. Altogether, this will cost about $10 USD. Make sure you carry cash.

If you’re in a hurry, take a full-day Palenque ruins tour from San Cristobal de las Casas . The site is about 4 hours from San Cris. A more popular option is to spend a couple of nights in the neighboring town of Palenque and take a tour of the ruins from there .

The town of Palenque is also a great base for visiting popular sites like Agua Azul and Misol-Ha, both of which are stunning natural features that deserve a spot on your Chiapas itinerary!  

Looking for more things to do in the area? Check out my guide to all the best places to visit in Chiapas !

which ruins to visit in mexico

10. Yaxchilan and Bonampak, Chiapas

By Becki of Meet Me In Departures

Yaxchilan and Bonampak are two phenomenal ruin sites located deep in the Lacandon Jungle jungle in the southern state of Chiapas in Mexico – heads up, you WILL need lots of bug repellent! 

Even though these are two different Mayan ruin sites, they are fairly tricky to get to because of their location. You could visit them independently, but the logistics are complicated: you have to coordinate a 4×4 ride along the bumpy jungle tracks to connect you to one of the small boats which shuttle visitors along the Usumacinta River.

The best way to see Yaxchilan and Bonampak is to book a full-day small-group tour (as well as a few smaller sites en route). This also includes the guide, entrance fees, and food for the day. Just make sure to bring cash to purchase snacks and tip your guide. 

Because it’s not straightforward to get there, you’ll have the pleasure of the ruins being quieter than others in Mexico. After visiting some of the busier Mayan sites, one of the highlights of visiting Yaxchilan and Bonampak is that it’s visually much more rustic. You don’t have hoards of people standing in your pictures, either. Plus, more of the ruins allow you to explore the inside (you can’t often do this at the most popular Mayan ruins).  

Bonampak is the smaller site of the two. The main thing you’ll want to see here is the colorful murals painted inside one of the tombs (you can’t go inside this one). They are so vibrant and weren’t destroyed during the Spanish conquest.

Yaxchilan is the larger of the two ruin sites. One of my lasting memories here was going inside the ‘labyrinth.’ Ok, so it’s not officially a maze, but it’s dark (so take a torch) and filled with huge tailless whip scorpions (don’t worry, they’re harmless to humans) and bats. We spent ages exploring these underground tombs.  

which ruins to visit in mexico

11. Becan, Campeche

By Kate of Our Escape Clause

Nestled in a quiet part of the jungle in Campeche sit the absolutely magnificent Becan ruins — ruins made all the more stunning for the fact that they’re located off the beaten path on the Yucatan peninsula and seemingly worlds away from the tourist crowds of Chichen Itza or Tulum.

Located an easy 1.5-hour drive from Bacalar, Becan is situated near the small town of Xpujil and is so easy to get to that it’s almost hard to believe the ruins aren’t more crowded.

When exploring Becan–an impressive 20 structures have been excavated, including defensive walls and a moat–you very well may spend parts of your visit entirely alone, surrounded by only the jungle and the remains of this once-powerful city.

The oldest structures in Becan date to around 500 BCE, but it saw a significant expansion much later and was populated until about 1200 CE when the city was abandoned.

Much about the city, including its original name, has been lost to time, but it was clearly a very powerful population center. Most of the structures in Becan are free to climb, and during your visit, you absolutely should climb at least a few of the pyramids–the views are stunning.

Becan currently costs $65 MXN / $3 USD to visit, and eager travelers will probably want to spend 2-3 hours there. It’s easily combined on an overnight trip with a visit to the more popular, yet harder to get to, ruins of Calakmul, for those looking to see multiple cities!

which ruins to visit in mexico

12. Calakmul, Campeche

By Isabella of Boundless Roads

Situated in the state of Campeche bordering with Quintana Roo in the south and El Peten in Guatemala on the west side, Calakmul is an unmissable place for anyone who loves either archeology or nature, as you get the best of both worlds. 

Calakmul is one of the largest protected reserves in Mexico and stretches for 7,231 km 2 (2,792 sq mi).

To visit the Biosphere you will need at least one entire day. I recommend hiring a guide and starting early in the morning so you have the chance to spot the unique wildlife living in the biosphere . If you’re very lucky, you might spot a Jaguar, but even local guides rarely see them. 

I wish I did. 

After the jungle tour, your guide will take you to the impressive pyramids and explain the history of the ancient Mayan civilization. If you choose to go on your own, without a guide, you will still enjoy the magic atmosphere of this place. You’ll still be able to see lots of birds and maybe monkeys while hiking to the top of the ancient temples.

Since it’s far from everything, you will need to plan to spend at least two nights close to the entrance. There are lovely jungle hotels in the area for any budget and needs. If you have time, extend your stay and take advantage of all the amazing things to do in the area. I spent a full week there in an attempt to see everything. 

which ruins to visit in mexico

13. Ek Balam, Yucatan

By Erin Tracy of Traveling Thru History

Ek Balam is one of the hundreds of Mayan ruins covering the Yucatan Peninsula and it was once a ruling city of the Mayan Kingdom. 

When you visit, you’ll be greeted by defensive walls, arches, a palace, a chapel, a ball court, and an Acropolis. The Acropolis is the tallest building and houses the remains of one of the kings of Ek Balam. You can climb to the top of the Acropolis to get a closer look at the carved jaguar teeth that guard the entrance to the king’s tomb and also get a breathtaking view over miles of the Yucatan landscape. 

Guides can be found at the entrance to Ek Balam, and I highly recommend hiring one to learn more about the fascinating history of this site. 

Ek Balam is located near Valladolid in the Yucatan Peninsula. There are lots of fun things to do in Valladolid , so it’s worth basing there for easy access to the ruins.  If you don’t want to use a tour company, you can take a taxi from the corner of Calles 44 and 37.

Taxis cost $250 MXN / $12 USD, but you can share the car and split the cost. 

The entrance fee for Ek Balam is $423 MXN / $20 USD, and you can expect to spend 1.5-2 hours exploring the ruins. If you want to avoid the crowds, go in the morning when most people visit some of the larger ruin sites.

There are tours of Ek Balam departing from Playa del Carmen and Cancun . These excursions also include a stop to swim in a cenote (a must in this part of the world!).  

which ruins to visit in mexico

14. Uxmal, Yucatan

By Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

For me, the Mayan city of Uxmal is the most impressive of all the ruins in the Yucatan peninsula, including the more famous ones like Chichen Itza and Tulum.

The bas-reliefs sculptures on the buildings around the main square are in excellent condition, and the site has some unusual features that you won’t see elsewhere. Of these, the most striking is the huge pyramid known as the House of the Magician, which has a unique, rounded shape.

Admission costs $413 MXN / $20 USD in total, which includes the general admission ticket as well as a Federal fee ticket. Be sure to keep both tickets, as they will be checked when you enter. 

There are about five buses a day to Uxmal from Mérida, which is 50 kilometers away. If you can manage to wake up early, I recommend taking the first bus, at 6 am, so that you can avoid the heat, take photos in the beautiful early morning light, and have the place to yourself before the crowds arrive. This will also ensure you have plenty of time at the site, which takes a few hours to explore thoroughly. 

There are also tours of Uxmal from Merida– like this one – which include round-trip transportation and stops at other attractions nearby, such as the neighboring archaeological zone of Kabah! 

There’s a restaurant serving up basic Mexican food within the visitor’s center, but it’s a good idea to bring snacks and plenty of water with you.

which ruins to visit in mexico

15. Chichen Itza, Yucatan

Chichen Itza was once one of the most significant cities in the Mayan empire. It was built sometime before the 5th Century and once had as many as 50,000 inhabitants.

Now, Chichen Itza is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. This ruin is known for its impressive El Castillo pyramid, one of the most famous Mayan temples of Mexico. The pyramid features one step for each day of the year. 

The pelota ball court is another impressive structure within this site. However, my personal favorite is El Caracol because it’s a little different from each of the others. 

Located 2.5 hours from Playa del Carmen and 1.5 hours from Merida, Chichen Itza is easily accessible from the most popular areas of the Yucatan peninsula. A visit to this archaeological site makes a fun day trip from Playa del Carmen . 

Like many other ruins in Mexico, there are very few interpretive signs on the site. If you wish to learn more about the history of Chichen Itza and its role in Mayan culture, you will need to hire a guide. The structures are beautiful and interesting to look at on their own, but a guide will offer more depth and context for what you’re seeing.

Private guides are available for hire at the entrance to Chichen Itza, or you can visit the site as part of a guided tour. If you’re a solo traveler, a guided tour is an easy way to visit Chichen, as it includes transportation. This Chichen Itza tour includes transportation from the Riviera Maya and stops in Valladolid and the cenote Ik Kil. It’s sure to make for an action-packed day. 

The site is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. It’s best to visit as early in the day as possible to escape the crowds and the heat. Plan to spend about 3 hours at the site. 

Travel Tip: The closest city to Chichen Itza is Valladolid – book a hotel there for easy access to the ruins.  

Many travelers write Chichen Itza off because of the crowds, but I truly think it’s worth a visit. As one of the most important Mayan cities, it would be a shame to skip it. Just get there early!

which ruins to visit in mexico

16. Tulum Archaeological Zone, Quintana Roo

Located within the city of Tulum, the Tulum ruins are a Maya archaeological site situated on a high bank along the oceanfront.  

Tulum is the Maya word for “wall.” The name is fitting because the site is surrounded by a substantial wall measuring up to 8 meters thick in some places. The ancient city of Tulum served as a seaport for the Maya people from the 13th century through the 15th century. By the end of the 16th century, the inhabitants of Tulum had succumbed to European diseases.

structures on-site at the Tulum archaeological site in Quintana Roo, Mexico

These days, the ruins are one of the top attractions in Tulum . The site is a 10-minute taxi ride from downtown Tulum, and the entrance fee is under $5. Although the site is small, there are several structures to visit, including the famous Templo Dios del Viento (God of the Winds), which sits on the bluffs overlooking the ocean.

There are some interpretive signs within the ruins to help contextualize the structures, but if you’re curious about the history, take a tour of the ruins for additional insight. Allow 2 to 3 hours for your visit. 

Before you leave, pop down to the picturesque beach located inside the ruins. You can access it via a staircase from the top of the bluffs. Just make sure you arrive early to beat the crowds.

which ruins to visit in mexico

17. San Gervasio Ruins, Quintana Roo

By Natalie of Blissmersion

The San Gervasio Ruins are located on the northern section of Cozumel island. Though San Gervasio isn’t as big or flashy as some of the more famous Mayan ruins in Mexico, it is worth touring as it was once one of the most important Mayan temples in Mexico for women. 

Cozumel was the island of fertility and the birthplace of chocolate. Pre-Columbian women would make a pilgrimage to San Gervasio to leave offerings at the temple of Ix Chel, the goddess of childbirth and fertility. 

Since these ruins are less crowded, you can get up close and personal with many of the buildings, even touching and walking on some structures. 

We opted to hire a tour guide, which cost $400 MXN / $17 USD additional. It was definitely worth it. We learned so much more about the site, plus we could go through the ruins at our own pace. Without a tour guide, it’s difficult to understand the purpose of each building and its importance. 

The entrance fee to San Gervasio is $9.50 USD. I recommend wearing mosquito repellent to this site. It’s offered for $1 USD at the entrance. 

The easiest way to get there is to get a taxi to the site. We paid $50 USD for a roundtrip taxi ride to the ruins and back from our resort. The driver waited for us, so we weren’t worried about being stranded. Allow for 2-3 hours at this site. We only planned for one hour, and it was much too short.

18. Chacchoben, Quintana Roo

By Annick of The Common Traveler

Located in the south of Mexico, in Quintana Roo, visitors will find the Mayan ruins of Chacchoben . The ruins make a great day trip from Playa del Carmen or Tulum. Most visitors explore this site as an excursion from their cruise ship stop as it is one of the best things to do in Mahahual .

The most convenient way to reach Chacchoben is via rental car (I use Discover Cars ). The Chacchoben ruins are located about 2.5 hours from Tulum and about 40 minutes from Bacalar.

Take Highway 307 to Highway 293, through Lazaro Cardenas, until reaching the ruins 3 km to the northwest of the town. Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, plan on spending about 2 hours visiting the entire site. 

Arrive early or late in the day to avoid the cruise crowds, or check the cruise schedules (looking for “Costa Maya”) to plan your visit. Admission to the ruins costs an affordable $60 MXN / $3.50 USD. 

The story of Chacchoben’s discovery is fascinating. In 1942, a local Mayan discovered the ruins, built his home here, and started farming the land. Thirty years later, an archaeologist discovered the family and the ruins and reported the discovery to the Mexican government. The Mayan family then became honorary guards of the site. 

Surrounded by the jungle, you’ll see lots of birds and howler monkeys, adding to the ambiance! Don’t forget to bring bug spray, sunscreen, water, and your sense of adventure! 

which ruins to visit in mexico

19. Muyil, Quintana Roo

By Jenn and Ed of Coleman Concierge

Muyil was one of the earliest and longest inhabited ancient Mayan ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula. What made Muyil a rich and powerful city was its position on a perfect small boat port along a chain of brackish lakes connected to the ocean by a series of canals. 

Muyil is located just 10 miles south of Tulum and was actually the major port city in the area with more size and power than the picturesque Mayan city that now sits in ruins on the outskirts of modern Tulum. 

Today visitors to Muyil can enjoy one of the most unique Riviera Maya excursions by combining Muyil with the adjacent waterways of the Sian Ka’an biosphere. There are half a dozen major excavated structures at Muyil, including some interesting Alux houses for the mythical little people who bestowed favors to the Maya.

The best way to visit Muyil is on a tour from Tulum . 

After touring the ruins, you’ll walk along a jungle path to the edge of Laguna Muyil. From there, you’ll take a boat across the Laguna Muyil and Laguna Chunyaxché to a hand-dug Mayan canal. The tour lets you snorkel about a mile through the canal, which is like an ancient lazy river. As you float, imagine what it must have been like for Mayan ships to enter and exit the once-powerful city of Muyil!

Will you be adding any of these archaeological sites to your Mexico itinerary? Which of these Mexican ruins are you most curious about?

which ruins to visit in mexico

Janine is a full-time content writer and travel blogger. In 2017 she and her cat moved from Los Angeles to Mexico and never looked back. Now, she writes in-depth articles to help women travel Mexico safely and confidently. Connect with her on Instagram.

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Mexico is such a great country. I loved Chichen Itza

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13 Must-Visit Mayan Ruins in Mexico

Posted on Last updated: 28/07/2022

Categories Things To Do

13 Must-Visit Mayan Ruins in Mexico

Looking to visit the ancient ruins in Mexico? 

Mexico is a country steeped in history and culture, and nowhere is this more evident than in the ruins dotted throughout the rugged landscape. They’re a must-see for anyone visiting Mexico and offer an insight into the fascinating world of the Mayans. 

In this guide, we’ve covered the history of each ruin, why you NEED to visit it, how to get there, and what to expect when you arrive. 

What are you waiting for? Let’s dive in… 

Incredible Mayan Ruins in Mexico

Tulum ruins, tulum.

Tulum Ruins

The Tulum Ruins are some of the most well-preserved Mayan ruins in all of Mexico, and offer a glimpse into the lives of this ancient civilization. This site was once an important port city, and is located on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.

One of the main attractions of these ruins is their location – perched atop a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This makes for some stunning views, and provides a unique backdrop to the ruins themselves.

Other highlights of Tulum’s ruins include the Temple of the Descending God, which is decorated with intricate carvings, and the Castillo (or Castle), which was used as a watchtower by the Mayans. 

A visit to Tulum is a must for any history or architecture lover – and even those who aren’t typically interested in ruins will be blown away by the beauty of this site!

Muyil Ruins, Tulum

Muyil Ruins

The Muyil Ruins are located just south of Tulum, and are considerably less well-known than their more famous neighbour. However, these ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the Mayan culture and are well worth a visit.

The Muyil Ruins are famed for the large number of stelae (or stone tablets) that can be found there. The stelae are carved with hieroglyphics, which provide insight into the religious and political life of the Mayans.

Other highlights of Muyil include the Gran Plaza, which is a large square flanked by Mayan temples, and the Chac-Mool Monument, which is a statue of a reclining figure. 

If you’re looking for a less-crowded alternative to Tulum, Muyil is the perfect place to visit.

Palenque, Chiapas

Palenque

The Palenque ruins are some of the most famous in Mexico. This may be due, in part, to the fact that they are among the most recently discovered Mayan ruins – they were only first excavated in the 1940s. 

The site is located in a lush jungle setting, and is thought to have been the capital of a Mayan kingdom from around 600-900 AD.

One of the most impressive structures at Palenque is the Temple of Inscriptions, which was built in honor of Pakal the Great, the ruler who commissioned its construction. 

This Maya temple is decorated with elaborately carved reliefs, and is the longest known hieroglyphic inscription from the Mayan world.

Other highlights of Palenque include the Palace, with its distinctive roof comb, and the Temple of the Sun, which features a series of intricate steps leading up to the summit. 

Tikal, Yucatan

Tikal

The Tikal ruins are some of the most spectacular in all of Central America, and are well worth a visit if you find yourself in the Yucatan Peninsula. 

This site was once the capital of a powerful Mayan kingdom, and is now home to some of the best-preserved ruins in all of Mexico.

Tikal is perhaps most famous for its towering temple pyramids, the largest of which is the Temple of the Jaguar. This pyramid reaches a height of 70 meters, and offers stunning views over the rest of the ruins. 

Other notable temples at Tikal include the Temple of the Mask, which features intricate carvings on its facade, and the Mayan Temple of the Inscriptions, which is decorated with hieroglyphs.

In addition to the temples, there are also a number of other impressive structures to be seen at Tikal, including palaces, plazas, and ball courts. A visit to this ancient city is sure to leave you awestruck by the beauty and sophistication of the Mayan civilization.

Chichen Itza, Tinum

Chichen Itza

The Chichen Itza ruins are some of the most well-known in all of Mexico, and are a must-see for any visitor to the country. This ancient city was once home to one of the most powerful Mayan kingdoms, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The most famous structure at Chichen Itza is the Temple of Kukulkan, also known as the Pyramid of the Sun. This pyramid is 75 meters high, and is covered in intricate carvings of serpents – it is said that when you walk up its steep steps, you can hear the hissing of the snakes.

Other highlights of Chichen Itza include the Temple of Jaguars, the Ball Court, and the Observatory. A visit to this ancient city is sure to leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the Mayan civilization!

Coba, Tulum

Coba Ruins

The Coba ruins are a lesser-known but nonetheless fascinating destination for anyone interested in Mayan history. This site was once the capital of a powerful Mayan kingdom, and is now home to some of the best-preserved ruins in all of Mexico.

Coba is most famous for its Nohoch Mul pyramid, which is the tallest in all of Mexico and soars to a height of 42 meters. This pyramid is accessible via a series of steep steps, and offers stunning views over the rest of the ruins.

Other notable structures at Coba include the Temple of the Jaguar, the Temple of Masks, and the Ball Court. 

Uxmal, Muna

Uxmal

The Uxmal ruins are one of the most well-known and popular destinations for those interested in Mayan history. This ancient city was once home to a powerful Mayan kingdom, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Uxmal is most famous for its imposing Pyramid of the Magician, which reaches a height of 30 meters. This pyramid is decorated with intricate carvings, and is said to be the most well-preserved of all the pyramids at Uxmal.

Other notable structures at Uxmal include the Pyramid of the Governor, the Temple of the Dwarfs, and the Nunnery Quadrangle. 

There are so many amazing Mayan ruins to be explored in Mexico – each one offers a unique glimpse into this fascinating ancient civilization. 

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to experience something truly unique, these ruins should definitely be at the top of your list.

Calakmul, Campeche

Calakmul Ruins

The Calakmul ruins are some of the most impressive and least-known Mayan ruins in all of Mexico. This ancient city was once home to a powerful Mayan kingdom, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Calakmul is most famous for its imposing Pyramid of the Serpent God, which reaches a height of 45 meters. This pyramid is decorated with intricate carvings, and is said to be the second tallest in all of Mexico.

Other notable structures at Calakmul include the Temple of the Jaguar, the Palace of the Masks, and the Ball Court. A visit to this ancient city is sure to leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the Mayan civilization!

Bonampak, Chiapas

Bonampak

The Bonampak ruins are definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in Mayan history. This ancient city was once home to a powerful Mayan kingdom, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bonampak is most famous for its murals, which depict scenes of life and death in the Mayan civilization. These murals are some of the best-preserved examples of Mayan art, and are a must-see for anyone visiting this ancient city.

The Bonampak ruins were built sometime between 600 and 900 AD.

Yaxchilan, Chiapas

Yaxchilan

Situated on the banks of the Usumacinta River, the Yaxchilan ruins are another must-see destination for anyone interested in Mayan history. 

This ancient city was once home to a powerful Mayan kingdom rivalled by the civilization that lived in Piedras Negras. 

The Yaxchilan ruins were built sometime between 350 and 800 AD, and are most famous for the hieroglyphs, which depict scenes of life and death in the Maya civilization.

Today, Yaxchilan is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Monte Alban, Oaxaca

Monte Alban

You’ll also want to head to Oaxaca to see Monte Alban’s Mayan ruins. 

The Monte Alban ruins were built sometime between 500 and 900 AD, and the site is most famous for its tombs, which date back to between 500 and 800 AD. 

These tombs offer a unique glimpse into the lives of the ancient Maya, and you’ll also find huge plazas and courts where the ball game tlachtli was played by local Mayan children.

El Rey Ruins, Cancun

El Rey

Towards the southeast of the country, the El Rey Ruins were built sometime between 200 and 600 AD. The ruins are made up of 47 separate structures, and remains of detailed mural paintings and drawings have even been recovered by archaeologists.

Between the years of 200 and 1200 AD. it’s believed that the civilization residing at the site worked mainly as fishermen and salt extractors – though, in later years, it housed immigrants fleeing from the Yucatan area of South America.

The site was quickly abandoned when Spaniards arrived in the 16th century.

Chacchoben, Mahahual

Chacchoben

A must-see destination for anyone interested in Mayan history, the Chacchoben Ruins were once home to a powerful Mayan kingdom, though today they’re visited by thousands of tourists each year.

But how old are the Mayan ruins, we hear you ask? It’s believed that the Chacchoben Ruins were built sometime between 600 and 1000 AD.

The Chacchoben Ruins are most famous for their pyramids, which date back to between 600 and 900 AD. These pyramids offer a unique glimpse into the lives of the ancient Maya, and are a must-see for anyone visiting this ancient city.

Who Were the Mayans?

The Maya were a Mesoamerican civilization that developed in the lowlands of southern Mexico, and reached its height around 250-900 AD. 

The Maya are perhaps best known for their elaborate temples and hieroglyphic writing system – which was one of the most advanced in the ancient world.

Mayan ruins can be found all over Mexico – each ruin has its own history and significance, and is well worth a visit for anyone interested in the Mayan culture.

How to Get to the Mayan Ruins

Most of the Maya ruins in Mexico are located in the Yucatan Peninsula, which is easily accessible from Cancun or Playa del Carmen. There are also a number of ruins located in the states of Chiapas and Tabasco, which can be reached by bus or car.

For those looking to visit several different sites, it may be helpful to hire a tour guide who can take you to all the best ruins in the area. This is the easiest way to make sure you see everything, and can often be done at a fraction of the cost of doing it on your own.

We love this guided tour, which takes you to the Muyil and Tulum ruins from Cancun. Alternatively, this one takes you to Chichen Itza and includes Tequilla tasting.

So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure in Mexico, be sure to include a visit to some of its amazing Mayan ruins.

Mayan Temples and Ruins: Map

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6 Best Mayan Ruins in Mexico Travel Guide

By: Author Hannah Lukaszewicz

Posted on Last updated: 21 February, 2024

6 Best Mayan Ruins in Mexico Travel Guide

Mexico is known for more than its sun-soaked beaches and festive atmosphere. You’ll find thousands of Mayan ruins throughout Mexico, many of which date back 2,500 years. Home to ancient civilizations, these Mayan ruins in Mexico are some of the best ways to explore Mexico’s history and culture.

Although different Mayan civilizations lived throughout the Americas, they prominently resided on the eastern side of Mesoamerica, or what we now know as Mexico. Some of the earliest Mayan settlements were found in 1800 BC; however, many cities came to power during the 6th century.

The Mayans left behind grandiose structures, beautiful art, and symbolic objects like pottery and jewelry. Nowadays, you can visit the deserted cities and Mayan ruins, which shed light on what life was like thousands of years ago.

Choosing between Mexico’s different ruins and sites can be a little overwhelming. However, there are some key places you must visit during your trip. In this article, we’ll cover a few of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico.

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6 Best Mayan Ruins in Mexico To Visit

1. chichen itza mayan ruins.

Considered one of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico, the archeological site of Chichen Itza is filled with history. Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, these Mayan ruins are just a short drive from Playa del Carmen and Valladolid. It’s also a three-hour drive from Cancun , making it the ideal day trip.

Not only is Chichen Itza a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it was also voted one of the Seven New Wonders of the World. The impressive, sprawling complex dates back over 1,500 years and was once the economic and political capital of the Yucatan.

During the 9th century, Chichen Itza was home to over 50,000 residents, making it one of the largest Mayan cities at the time. However, many of Chichen Itza’s residents left for newer villages around Mexico. And in the 16th century, Spanish Conquestitors took over the city’s remaining. Between 1200 – 1500 AD, the city was eventually deserted.

The highlight of Chichen Itza is the towering El Castillo, a 100ft high step pyramid. It’s also referred to as the Temple of Kukulkan since it was built in honor of the feathered serpent deity, Kukulkan. Dominating over the rest of the ruins, a glimpse of El Castillo is worth visiting Chichen Itza alone.

Besides El Castillo, there are numerous other sites and temples to see in Chichen Itza. The Temple of Warriors is another magnificent structure. This stone pyramid is surrounded by 200 columns, with pictures of warriors carved into the side. At the top of the temple is a Chac Mool, a platform reportedly used for human sacrifices.

The sacred cenote is also one of the best things to see in Chichen Itza. This deepwater wall is located inside a cave surrounded by cliffs and rocks. While excavating the site, archeologists found treasures, jewelry, and even human remains at the bottom of the cenote. For this reason, it’s believed that the sacred cenote was used for religious sacrifices. If you don’t have time to visit the cenote, make sure to visit one of the other best cenotes in Mexico .

  • Address: Carretera Federal, Cancun – Chetumal Km 230, 307, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
  • Hours : Every day from 8 am-5 pm
  • Admission Fee : 480 pesos per person
  • Recommended Tour : Book Now – Viator Exclusive Early Access to Chichen Itza with Private Archaeologist 

Related Article: Best Things to Do In Riviera Maya & Places to Visit

2. Coba Mayan Ruins

Tucked away from the city’s bustling crowds, Coba is an exceptional and historically significant archeological site. Located in the depths of a jungle, it may not be as busy or as popular as Chichen Itza or Tulum. However, its remote location makes it one of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico.

During its peak, Coba was home to over 50,000 residents. Historians believe that the first signs of human life date back to 100 AD. However, like many Mayan cities, Coba was soon abandoned during the invasion of Spanish conquistadors.

Once inside the Coba ruins, you’ll have several options for exploring the sprawling grounds. You can rent a bike or take a pedicab to reach the main sites and pyramids. Walking is an option but be prepared for a long journey.

The Coba ruins are known for ‘sacbes’ – or stone causeways. This intricate network of roads was widespread during the ancient Mayan world. The largest sacbes stretch for 62 miles and connect Coba with the ancient city of Yaxuná. It’s the longest and most technically engineered road of ancient life!

Besides walking on the sacbes, you can also visit Ixmoja, the largest pyramid in Coba. This structure can still be touched and climbed, unlike the ruins in Chichen or Itza. If you are wanting to climb a Mayan ruin in Mexico, you must come to Coba. Ixmoja stands 138 ft tall and has 120 stone steps. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding lush jungle.

Another benefit to Coba’s rural location is its proximity to the limestone cenotes. There are three fresh-water cenotes near Coba, which means you can go for a swim or dip if the weather gets too hot! Our favorite cenote nearby is Suytun Cenote .

  • Address : Carretera Federal Tulum 307, 77793 Cobá, Q.R., Mexico
  • Admission Fee: 70 pesos per person
  • Recommended Tour: Tulum, Coba, and Swimming in a Cenote – Book Now

3. Tulum Mayan Ruins

Dating back 700 years, the Tulum ruins are considered one of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico. The ruins are situated on the coast of Tulum, a charming port village in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Since it’s only a two-hour drive from Cancun, Tulum makes for an easy day trip. Here is our step-by-step guide for getting from Cancun to Tulum . If you are staying in Tulum , we suggest going early in the morning. The Tulum ruins are the most popular thing to do in Tulum , so go early or later in the afternoon.

Perched atop a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the archeological ruins of Tulum have a breathtaking setting. Although the walled city might not be as large or as impressive as other ruins in Mexico, its cliffside location makes up for it. There’s even a beach right in the middle of the ruins!

Many consider Tulum to be the smaller, more compact version of Chichen Itza. The temples of Tulum are built in the same style as the buildings in Chichen Itza and even mix different architectural influences.

Tulum was initially built as a sea fortress, hence the walled protection and lookout. During the height of its rule in the 13th and 14th centuries, Tulum was home to over 1,500 people. However, when Spanish conquistadors took over the town, they brought life-threatening diseases that killed most of the population.

However, Tulum was still considered one of the biggest trading ports in the Yucatan. Artifacts have been found throughout the site that originally came from Central Mexico and even Central America.

There are three significant structures to see in Tulum. The first building is El Castillo, which is similar in structure and style to Chichen Itza’s pyramid of the same name. Originally built as a lighthouse, this 25ft tall pyramid could see trading boats and canoes sailing towards the city.

The other two sites to see in Tulum are the Temple of the Frescoes and the Temple of the Descending God. Mayans used the Temple of the Frescoes as an observatory for tracking the sun’s movements. The Temple of the Descending God was used as a shrine to honor Tulum’s nameless “diving God.”

The cenotes near Tulum are some of the in Mexico, and my personal favorite is Cenote Calavera . It’s the perfect place to cool down after a hot afternoon exploring the best Mayan ruin in Mexico.

Go early in the morning. The heat is crazy hot at Tulum Ruins. Make sure to read our Tulum packing list for our tips on what to wear to Tulum Ruins.

  • Address : Zona Hotelera de Chichen Itza, Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico C.P. 97751
  • Admission Fee : 65 pesos per person
  • $109 Book Now – 3-in-1 Discovery Combo Tour: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote & Caves
  • $34 Book Now – Viator Exclusive Early Access to Tulum Ruins with an Archeologist 

4. Ek Balam Mayan Ruins

Another popular ancient archeological site in the Yucatan Peninsula is Ek Balam. This walled city has an impressive 45 structures on-site, some of which you can even climb! There are very few ruins in Mexico you can climb, so make sure to put Ek Balam on your itinerary.

Its name roughly translates to “The Black Jaguar” in Mayan. Besides the sheer number of structures, the ruins are known for housing the tomb of El Balam’s ruler, Ukit Kan Leʼk Tokʼ.

From 770 – 840 AD, Ek Balam was one of the most prominent cities in the Mayan world. The town had around 20,000 people until its fall when the population dropped dramatically. Although there are many speculations as to why the Ek Balam was abandoned, it’s still not completely clear to this day.

Ek Balam is a relatively new discovery, with only its center having been excavated. However, many visitors come to see the Acropolis, which is the largest structure in the ruins. It’s believed to contain the tomb of Ukit Kan Leʼk Tokʼ, one of the biggest rulers of the time.

The entrance to his throne – known as El Trono – is shaped like a giant mouth. Many believe that it’s the mouth of a jaguar.

One of the best parts about Ek Balam is that you can climb to the top of the Acropolis. If you visit on a clear day, you might even be able to see the ruins of Coba and Chichen Itza from the top!

Another impressive feature of the Ek Balam ruins is the city walls. Ranging from 6.6 to 9.8 ft wide, these thick stone walls showcase how vital defense was to the city. The grounds of Ek Balam are vast, with the walls encompassing around 24 acres of land.

With dozens of buildings and structures to visit, it’s advised to spend several hours in Ek Balam.

  • Address : Ek Balam, Yucatan, Mexico C.P. 97751
  • Hours : Every day from 8 am-4 pm
  • Admission Fee : 413 pesos per person
  • Recommended Ek Balam Tours

5. Uxmal Mayan Ruins

Considered one of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico, Uxmal is home to beautifully preserved and ornate structures. This ancient city is also located on the Yucatan Peninsula and was recently recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The exact date and population of the city are still largely unknown. Many archeologists and historians believe Uxmal was built between 850-1100 AD and had around 15,000 residents. It is believed that the city ruled around 900 AD when it was the de facto capital of the Puuc region.

The city was soon abandoned after the Spanish conquest during the mid-1400 and 1500s. The original names of the structures are unknown since the Spanish gave them new titles based on their beliefs and thoughts about the buildings.

Although many buildings have been restored, Uxmal contains Mexico’s biggest collection of preserved ruins in Mexico. Many structures are built in Puuc-style, noted by their smooth slopes and thatched roof shapes.

The Governor’s Palace is one of the top things to see in Uxmal. This larger-than-life platform has a 320-foot-long mosaic carved with pictures of serpents, masks, and many god-like figures.

In Uxmal, you can also visit a large ball court, which was often used for playing Mesoamerican ball. Although most of the structure has deteriorated over time, you can still see the courts’ sides and the rings used to hold the balls.

Another notable structure is the Pyramid of the Magician, which dominates the skyline in Uxmal. Its rounded sides and elliptical base make it one of Mexico’s most unique structures. The pyramid gets its name from various folk legends told throughout Mayan history.

  • Address : Uxmal, Yucatan, Mexico
  • Admission Fee : 111 pesos per person
  • Recommended Uxmal Tours

Don’t let the size of the small, compact ruins of Labna fool you. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Mayan ruin has some of the finest Puuc-style structures. Along with Uxmal, it’s one of the last Puuc sites remaining in the Yucatan Peninsula.

During its reign between 600-900 AD, the city had a population of only 4,500 people. The site wasn’t discovered until it was discovered by English explorers Stephens and Catherwood in 1842.

As soon as you arrive in Labna, you’ll walk through the two-story-high Palace, which extends almost 400 feet in length. It’s considered one of the longest existing Puuc structures. The Palace also contains many ornate carvings inscribed inside the walls.

Even a large sculpture of Chac, the Mayan rain god, looms over you as you walk inside. However, you’ll find Chac masks throughout the entire site, especially in doorways and corners of the buildings.

Labna is also home to several sacbes, or paved roads. These roads connect the city to other villages and are considered one of the most advanced features of the ancient Mayan civilization.

The most popular sacbes extend from the Palace to the decorated arches, or “El Arco.” Many believe that the arch stands at the entrance of the city. However, it merely connects the main public plazas.

  • Address : Carretera Uman – Hopelchen km 101, Mérida, Yuc., Mexico
  • Entrance Fee : 42 pesos per person

FAQ Mayan Ruins in Mexico

How many mayan ruins in mexico are there.

With over 4,400 Mayan ruins scattered throughout Latin America, many of the Mayan sites are located in Mexico.

What is the most famous Mayan ruin?

Chichen Itza is the most famous Mayan ruin in Mexico and one that shouldn’t be missed. Since it is the most famous Mayan ruin, it sees many visitors daily, so if you can rent a car and drive yourself to avoid the bus tours.

Which Mayan ruins to visit?

This will vary based on where you vacationing in Mexico and if you have a rental car in Mexico to drive yourself. You won’t be disappointed if you pick any of the above six best Mayan ruins in Mexico.

Which Mexican Mayan ruins can you climb?

There are still a few Mayan ruins you can climb in Mexico. Sadly you can no longer climb Chichen Itza, but you can climb the following Mayan ruins in Mexico: Coba Ruins and Ek Balam.

How old are the Mayan ruins in Mexico?

Evidence shows the Maya started building the Mayan ruins about 3,000 years ago.

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12 Most Fascinating Mayan Ruins in Mexico

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Millions of people visit Mexico every year for a variety of reasons. Some come for the beautiful beaches, and others come for the fantastic cuisine. If you’re interested in the pre-columbian history and culture of this Latin American country, then you’ll want to explore some of the many Mayan ruins in Mexico.

The Mayan people were one of the biggest groups living in Mesoamerica in centuries past, and their influences are still visible throughout the region. You’ll have the chance to visit incredible Mayan pyramids, historic landmarks and cultural attractions. Don’t miss these must-see Mayan sites found in Mexico.

12. Mayapan [SEE MAP]

Mayapan

In the Yucatan Peninsula, just south of Merida , is Mayapan. These ruins represent the last truly thriving Mayan community in Mexico before the Spanish came to the region. Historians estimate that Mayapan is just over 1,000 years old, and at its peak more than 17,000 people lived there.

Today, Mayapan is enclosed by a wall, and inside that wall are more than 4,000 structures. You’ll find pyramids, temples, shrines and homes made from limestone. This is also an active archeological site, so expect to see ongoing digs as people work tirelessly to excavate more clues about this fascinating site.

11. Yaxchilan [SEE MAP]

Yaxchilan

In Chiapas, next to Mexico’s border with Guatemala, you’ll find the Mayan site called Yaxchilan. Thanks to its location on the banks of the Usumacinta River, this settlement was hugely important in Mayan culture for political and trading reasons. Over 120 structures make up Yaxchilan, and they are grouped into three main sections: The Grand Acropolis, the Small Acropolis and the Great Plaza.

Arrive at the site by boat from Frontera Corozal, and then pay close attention to the ball courts and the architecture of Yaxchilan. Of note are the carved hieroglyphic stairways that depict Mayan history.

10. Ek Balam [SEE MAP]

Ek Balam

One of Mexico’s most popular archeological sites is Ek Balam. Over 1,200 years ago, more than 20,000 Mayans called the settlement their home. The site was recently reconstructed, which makes is easier to imagine what Ek Balam looked like in the past. Unlike at many other Mayan sites, the statues and monuments at Ek Balam are wonderfully preserved.

You can even still read some of the hieroglyphic inscriptions on the buildings and the statues. Combine your visit to Ek Balam with the nearby cenote, an underground cave that you can access thanks to a five-minute rickshaw ride from the site.

9. Becan [SEE MAP]

Becan

Between the destinations of Chetumal and Escárcega on the Yucatan Peninsula, are several Mayan sites. If you’re heading to this area, you’ll want to stop by Becan. This is an unusual Mayan site because while most of the wall is gone, it is still surrounded by a moat. Becan was established more than 2,500 years ago, and it was both a residential area and a place of ceremonial importance.

When you visit, expect to spend at least two hours touring the 20 buildings in the archeological park, including public plazas, crumbling staircases, underground tunnels and pyramids.

8. Edzna [SEE MAP]

Edzna

An hour’s drive from the city of Campeche is Edzna, a Mayan site with a rich history. The name means that the site was the House of the Itzás, and it may have been a precursor to the much more famous Chichen Itzá.

The settlement was abandoned in the 15th century with little explanation, adding an air of mystery to Edzna. Don’t miss the palace, the Temple of the Masks and the Gran Acropolis. The Small Acropolis is also interesting because they offer a view of the city, making it a perfect spot to take photographs.

7. Coba [SEE MAP]

Coba

Deep in the jungles of Quintana Roo is Coba, one of the largest and most fascinating Mayan ruins in Mexico. At its peak, Coba was home to more than 50,000 people, which means that it was incredibly significant to Mayan culture and society. The site of Coba is sprawling, and only a small portion of the ruins have been cleared, with the rest still overgrown in the jungle.

While at Coba, you can climb the Nohuch Mul pyramid for incredible views over the surrounding landscape. Don’t miss the ball court and the elevated roads that emanate from the settlement to nearby Mayan destinations.

6. Bonampak [SEE MAP]

Bonampak

Bonampak translates into English as Painted Wall, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise to learn that this Mayan site boasts a collection of colorful murals. Located in Chiapas just a short drive from Yaxchilan, Bonampak is set in the jungle off a tributary of the Usumacinta River.

The jungle setting, and wildlife that call the area home, are just as fascinating to visitors as the Mayan ruins themselves. A highlight of visiting Bonampak is the Temple of the Murals, whose interior walls showcase some of the best examples of Mayan painting anywhere in the world.

5. Tulum [SEE MAP]

Tulum

Another of the most visited Mayan sites in Mexico is Tulum. The ruins are relatively small, but they are right on the coast of Caribbean beaches, creating truly spectacular scenery. The destination of Tulum can be divided into three sections: The beach, the old town and the ruins.

The Tulum Ruinas, as they are known in Spanish, are perched on sea cliffs. You’ll be able to tour the Temple of the Frescoes, see the thick wall that protected the settlement and still stands today, and admire the iconic shrine. Tulum does get quite busy since it is a major tourism spot, but getting there early can result in far fewer crowds.

4. Uxmal [SEE MAP]

Uxmal

In the Mayan language, the word Uxmal means Built Three Times. Uxmal is arguably one of the most preserved Mayan sites in Mexico, and it has been expertly restored at big expense. Uxmal boasts numerous architectural styles, revealing that construction went on for many centuries.

The House of the Magician is the tallest and most impressive structure at Uxmal, and legend says that it was built in just one night. Uxmal is also home to one of the largest remaining Mayan ball courts. Don’t leave without seeing the Nunnery, the Governor’s Palace or the House of Turtles.

3. Calakmul [SEE MAP]

Calakmul

Calakmul is a huge site found in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. This is a vast space with countless buildings, but most are still just mounds covered by centuries of dirt and jungle expansion. The Great Pyramid has been uncovered and is now a major attraction, since it is the largest of all known Mayan pyramids.

Climb to the top of the pyramid and enter the palace from which you can see over the jungle and all the way across the border to Guatemala. Exploring the site is almost overwhelming because of the sheer size, so treat the jungle as its own attraction full of lush greenery and an abundance of wildlife.

2. Palenque [SEE MAP]

Palenque Mayan Ruins in Mexico

Another Mayan site found in Chiapas is Palenque. There are two major reasons to visit this particular site above others. First, it is known for some of the finest architecture and sculptures the Maya ever produced. Second, it is also home to an enormous national park that is a must-see spot for nature lovers.

Palenque boasts a number of excavated tombs, many of which contain historic artifacts. You can admire the stone hieroglyphic panels found within the Templo do las Inscripciones, see the fine sculptures within El Palacio and explore several groupings of smaller temples.

1. Chichen Itza [SEE MAP]

Chichen Itza

As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is Mexico’s most famous Mayan city, attracting lots of visitors each year. Whether you are planning to explore on your own or take a guided tour, come prepared to do a lot of walking. The main attraction at Chichen Itza is El Castillo, or the Pyramid of Kukulcan.

Amazingly, there is another temple constructed within El Castillo, called the interior temple, that is even older. While in Chichen Itza, you should see the Great Ballcourt, admire the murals in the Temple of Jaguars, and check out the Cenote of Sacrifice.

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January 24, 2018 at 2:07 pm

Those are fantastic picks, and although I’ve seen many of these, you listed a stunning few that are now on my list! I’m also interested in Kohunlich and Chacchoben, in the southern Yucatan that weren’t on this list. I guess they’re smaller sites, and less visited (which is maybe a good thing). I’m looking forward to visiting Edzna next time I’m near Campeche!

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Best ruins in Mexico – 10 places you should visit!

Are you dreaming about traveling to Mexico? To discover the history of the Maya, Aztecs and other ancient civilizations? Mexico is famous for its impressive temples and pyramids, each of them located in a different part of the country: In the jungle, the savanna, on a hilltop, in the rainforest and at the beach. Nowadays you can visit these archaeological places, stroll through the ancient cities, climb temples, observe glyphs and learn about the fascinating history. Discover the best ruins to visit, including tips for the famous Yucatan Maya ruins in Mexico in the next article.

Cobá Maya ruins Mexico

Is cholula worth visiting, the best maya ruins in chiapas mexico.

With over 100 archaeological sites, the State of Chiapas, is the heart of Mayan culture. However, only part of these ancient cities have been excavated. Palenque , located in the jungle, is one of the most visited and best Maya ruins in Mexico. The temples that rise above the jungle and the mysterious mist that hangs over the ruins make a visit so worthwhile!

The construction of the city started in 100 BC. Together with Tikal , located in Guatemala , Copán , located in Honduras and Calakmul, Palenque used to be one of the most important Mayan cities. Characteristic structures that you can admire include the Temple of the Inscriptions, built as a mausoleum for King Pakal, the large temple complex, consisting of several buildings, corridors and plazas, the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Cross. But one of the best things to do is to walk around the jungle and visit the smaller temples.

Tips for your visit

Make sure to go as early as posible, to avoid the heat and crowds. Or schedule your visit at the end of the day, to enjoy a beautiful sunset from one of the temples. The Maya ruins of Palenque are a 30-minute drive from the city of Palenque, in Mexico. Do you want to learn more about the history of the Maya? Then I recommend going on a guided tour. This   is an overview of different tours, where you can also check availability and prices.

Yaxchilán is the most remote Maya complex and one of the best ruins to visit in Mexico. It is located along the Usumacinta River, on the border of Mexico and Guatemala, and only accessible by boat. Due to its difficult accessibility, you will not find many tourists here. The site is located deep in the rainforest, surrounded by a mysterious fog, several monkeys, toucans and Ceiba trees. One of the highlights is the Palacio del Rey. Here you can observe the beautiful ornaments that Yaxchilán is so famous for.

Tips for your Yaxchilán visit

Yaxchilán is located in Chiapas and can be visited from the town Frontera Corozal. It is best to book a hotel the night before your visit, so you can wake up early the next day and take the first boat to the Yaxchilán Maya ruins in Mexico. It is also possible to book a tour from Palenque, including transportation and a guide. This is an overview with tours from Palenque.

Are you curious to read more? In the next article you will find everything you want to know about a visit to the Yaxchilán Maya ruins in Mexico.

Travel to Guatemala

Do you want to discover Guatemala after your trip through Mexico? From Frontera Corozal you can cross the Usumacinta river by boat to the Guatemalan border town Bethel. From here, it will take you 4 hours to reach Flores, your starting point for discovering   Maya ruins such as  Tikal ,   Yaxha  and   El Mirador. Check out my itineraries for Mexico and Guatemala, including destinations and tips for your visit.

  • Mexico itinerary 3 weeks
  • Guatemala itinerary 3 weeks
  • 2 weeks in Guatemala
  • Guatemala itinerary 10 days
  • Guatemala itinerary 7 days

Yucatan Maya ruins in Mexico

Chichén itzá – famous yucatan maya ruins.

Chichén Itzá is one of the seven Wonders of the World. It is located in the Yucatan state and one of the best Maya ruins to visit in Mexico. The city was built over a period of 600 years, and is divided into two parts; the old and the new city. Highlights include the world-famous Castillo or Temple of Kukulcán, consisting of 4 steps and 91 steps, representing the number of days of the solar year.

Other structures that are worth exploring are the ball playing field, the largest one in the Mayan Empire, the fascinating colonnaded galleries, the observatory and the cenote, a sacred spring with water and 20 meters deep.

As with many wonders of the world, you will find many tourists at Chichén Itzá. To get from one section to another, you walk on a boulevard with hundreds of marketstalls. I personally think this takes away the magic of the ancient Maya complex. But Chichén Itzá is a place you simply do not want to miss, just make sure you are prepared.

Tips for your Chichén Itzá visit

If you want to visit Chichén Itzá, it is important to go very early in the morning. Book a ticket with early access here , so you don’t have to stand in line. Chichén Itzá can be visited from Valladolid (45 minutes), Cancún (2.5 to 3 hours), Playa del Carmen (2.5 to 3 hours) and Tulum (2 to 2.5 hours). Looking for a guided tour? This is an overview with tours where you can check availability and prices.

Uxmal is located at the Yucaten peninsula and one of the best Maya ruins to visit near Merida in Mexico. The archaeological site is known for its Puuc style and this mosaic work is truly impressive. The city was built in different periods, hence the name Uxmal, which means “built three times”. Uxmal had its flourishing period between 800 and 1000 AD. with probably around 300,000 inhabitants.

Highlights include the 40-meter high Pyramid del Adivino, pyramid of the fortuneteller and the 32-meter high Gran Pyramid, large pyramid. You can climb both pyramids, by taking up many steps. Once at the top, you can enjoy a great view and wonder how the Maya chose these incredible locations. The Cuadrangulo de las Monjas, the nunnery, and Palacio del Gobernador, the Governor’s Palace, are worth visiting to enjoy its many detailed decorations.

Tips for your Uxmal visit

Uxmal is a 85 km drive from Mérida. Are you interested in learning more about the history of Uxmal? Then I recommend going with a guide on a Uxmal tour. You will experience the ruins in a different way, as the stones come to life and you’ll get a better idea of how people must have lived in those days. Moreover, your transportation is included.  This  is an overview of different tours, where you can also check availability and prices. Are you planning to visit Uxmal with your own car ? Then it is best to visit Uxmal, when you are on your way to or from Mérida.

Tulum – Yucatan ruins at the beach

Tulum, along with Chichén Itzá, is one of the most visited and best Yucatan Maya ruins to visit in Mexico. What makes Tulum special, is its unique location on the Caribbean Sea. It is the only Maya archaeological site with a seafront. It was built as a political and religious center, and one of the last Maya structures before the Spaniards arrived. Tulum played an important role in sea trade and served as a port city. It was surrouded by a large wall to protect the city from raids. Not much is left of the city nowadays but because of its beautiful location, it is a true picture heaven.

Tulum, is located on the Riviera Maya, with Playa del Carmen and Cancún in the vicinity. Mak sure to visit Tulum as early as posible. Tours in and around Tulum can be found here .

Cobá is an archaeological Maya site, located in the jungle, on the shores of the lakes Lago Cobá and Lago Macanxoc. It used to be an important trade and transportation city. The city was connected to other cities in the area by a unique road system, called sachbe’s.

The jungle enviroment makes Cobá a beautiful place to visit. Cobá consists of 80 km2, but only a small part has been excavated. You can admire the 42-meter high pyramid, Nohoch-Mu, or Castillo, the second largest pyramid in Yucatan (the largest one is located in Chichén Itzá). There is a ball playing field, observatory and there are different stelea and remnants of murals to observe. The Maya ruins of Cobá can be explored by foot. But the site is large and distances between archaeological excavations are long, therefore it is also possible to rent a bike or a taxi bike at the entrance.

Tips for visiting the Coba Yucatan ruins

The Yucatan Maya ruins of Cobá are visited by fewer people than Chichén Itzá, wich is nice. Still, it is recommended to go as early as possible. Then there is a good chance that you will be walking here with only a few people, many birds and other animals. Cobá is located 45 minutes away from Tulum and one hour from Valladolid. This is an overview with tours to Cobá.

Hotels near Cobá Yucatan ruins

One of the most beautiful hotels to spend the night near the Cobá ruins is Coqui Coqui Papholchac Coba Residence & Spa . This place is a true paradise, located in a beautiful environment and inspired by the rich Mayan culture and history. There are a few exclusive suites, of which the top suites even have their own terrace and swimming pool. Check here the latest rates and availability for Coqui Coqui. This is an overview with tours to Cobá.

Other beautiful ruins in Mexico

Lots of people have heard about the Maya. But there are many more ancient civilizations in Mexico, such as the Mixtecs, Zapotecs and Aztecs. These are the best ruins, temples and pyramids to visit during your trip to Mexico.

Teotihuacán – Aztec ruins of Mexico

One of the best ruins to visit when you are in and around Mexico City, is Teotihuacán. The pyramids of Teotihuacán are just impressive. Teotihuacán means in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs, the place where one becomes god. The city was built by the Toltecs and later used as an important ceremonial center by the Aztecs. Between 300-700 AD, 200,000 inhabitants must have lived in Teotihuacán and the city had about the same size as Rome.

The temple of the sun and the moon are the most spectacular. You can get all the way to the top of these Aztecs ruins in Mexico, by taking countless steep steps. At the top, you will be rewarded with a wide view of the surroundings.

Tips for visiting Teotihuacán

Keep in mind that this place is always busy with locals and tourists. It is best to visit the site early in the morning or late afternoon and try to avoid weekends and holidays as much as possible. Teotihuacán can be visited from Mexico City within 2 hours, by private transportation or a guided tour. This is an overview with tours to Teotihuacán. Are you traveling by car? Make sure to buy your tickets in advance here , so you don’t have to make a line upon arrival.

Monte Albán – Oaxaca ruins

Monte Albán is one of the best ruins to visit when you are in Oaxaca. The city was built around 200 BC and was the religious, political and economic center of the Zapotec empire for 2000 years. The city is located on a hill, and the view is beautiful. If you look out over the complex, you want to travel back in time and know how it must have looked. The complex contains several parts, including the central plaza, a ball playing field, the buildings of the elite, tombs and the frescoes of Danzantes.

Tips for visiting

Monte Albán is just half an hour away from Oaxaca. Do you want to learn more about the history of Monte Albán in Mexico? Then I recommend going with a guide on a  Monté Alban tour.  You will experience the ruins in a different way. Moreover, your transportation is included.  This  is an overview of different tours where you can also check availability and prices. Do you want to read more? Find everything you want to know about Monte Albán and the Zapotecs in the next article.

Oaxaca is one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico, with a lovely atmosphere. You can stroll around for hours and enjoy squares, churches, colonial buildings, botanical gardens and colorful street art. Check out my article with the best things to do in Oaxaca city in Mexico.

Mitla is a pre-Columbian city that is visited less often. But it is definitely worth to check out, if you are in Oaxaca state. Especially because of the mosaic work on the buildings. The site is located in a nice quiet area surrounded by cactuses and agave plants. The city was built by the Zapotecs, then conquered by the Mixtecs and inhabited by the Aztecs. Mitla, meaning “the resting place of the dead”, was a city for ceremonial activities. The city later served as a burial site for important priests.

In particular, the Palacio de las Columnas & Grupo de las Columnas are beautiful. The adjacent church, built by the Spaniards, was partly built with Mitla stones, something to pay special attention to.

Tips for visiting MItla

Do you want to visit Mitla from Oaxaca? This is an overview with tours, that include transportation and a guide. You often visit more destinations during a tour, such as the impressive tree of Tule. Do you travel by yourself? Make sure to buy your tickets in advance here .

The ruins of Cholula are not specifically part of this list with the best ruins to visit in Mexico. However, if you are interested in pre-Columbian cultures, a visit can be worth it. The Pyramid of Cholula is the largest pyramid in the world with dimensions of 450 × 450 m. Cholula is also one of the oldest settlements in Mexico.

Unfortunately, the size of the pyramid is difficult to observe, as very little remains. Nowadays you can only walk along the old foundations and visit the tunnels. Cholula is 15 kilometers away from Puebla. If you are driving around in the area, it is recommended to include a short visit.

Mexico itinerary

Do you want to know how to include these ruins in your trip to Mexico? Check out my Mexico itinerary for 3 weeks, bringing you from Mexico City all the way to the Yucatán peninsula. I will show you beautiful cities, places in nature, archaeological sights, activities and cultural highlights to include in your trip. Enjoy and get inspired to visit Mexico!

More about Mexico

Did you enjoy reading this article about the best ruins to visit in Mexico? In the next articles you can read more of my tips for Mexico: 

  • 30 things to do in Mexico
  • City Guide Valladolid
  • Oaxaca City Guide
  • Things to do in Izamal, the yellow city of Mexico
  • What to do in San Cristóbal de Las Casas
  • Itinerary Mexico 3 weeks

Interested in art, culture and archaeology? Read my articles about:

  • Yaxchilán, the remote Maya site in Mexico
  • Monte Albán, the ruines near Oaxaca
  • Frida Kahlo house and museum

This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something using one of our links, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you, which helps us keep this blog alive. Thank you for your support! Please see our  disclosures  for more information.

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which ruins to visit in mexico

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which ruins to visit in mexico

18 Ancient Mexico Ruins You Must Visit

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Built by a number of mysterious ancient civilizations, the origins of the many of prehistoric Mexico Ruins are unknown. If you are traveling in Mexico, then you should stop to appreciate local ancient structures and folklore.

Who built the Mexico Ruins?

Before you visit the sites it’s a good idea to get an idea of the ancient civilizations that lived in Mexico.

The groups of civilizations that developed in ancient Mexico in the area referred to as “Mesoamerica.” They share many cultural traits, however, are different and lived at different times. The ancient ruins they left behind all have their distinct signature.

They shared writing systems, calendars, a ball game played with a rubber ball, pyramid building, and agriculture (cultivating mainly corn, beans, and squash). However, they are distinct in other respects.

These ancient civilizations who built the Mexican ruins are attributed to cultures like the:

  • Other – a lost civilization yet unidentified .

Many of the ancient sites in Mexico destroyed when the conquistadors invaded in the year 1521. Despite this, there are thousands of the Mexican ruins still that remain standing. Countless more ruins could very well lay undiscovered in the jungles or unexplored lands of the North American nation.

What ruins are near Mexico City?

For travelers visiting Mexico City, there are a number of ancient ruins to visit.

The must-see sites include:

1) Chichen Itza

which ruins to visit in mexico

Chichen Itza is a famous Mexico Ruin near Mexico City.  Source

The most famous of all the ruins found in Mexico are those of Chichen Itza.

Chichen Itza is one of the most famous Mayan ruin in Mexico.

Though excavations are still ongoing, this Mayan ruin is an utterly spectacular site. Advanced stonemasonry, geometry, mathematics, and astronomy were used by the Maya to construct such a city.

The most famous structure within Chichen Itza is its massive stepped pyramid known as El Castillo. Standing nearly 100 feet tall and made from carved limestone, it is this structure that has earned the title of one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.

Another important building of Chichen Itza is El Caracol, one of the Mayans oldest observatories. It is thought to have been primarily used to track solstices, equinoxes, and eclipses. It is also aligned perfectly to track the movements of Venus. The Maya incorporated this as part of their highly advanced astronomical knowledge.

2) Monte Alban

which ruins to visit in mexico

Monte Alban is a Mexico Ruin near Mexico City.  Source

Beautifully sculpted terraces, temples, an observatory, a stunning mountaintop location, Monte Alban has it all. This Mexican ruin was an extremely important cultural site in ancient times, with many different civilizations inhabiting it over its rich history.

It is thought that Monte Alban was used as a fortification, as its mountaintop location is over 1300 feet above a valley floor. When visiting this ancient site, tourists are treated to magnificent views; a slight insight into what life was like for the ancient occupants.

which ruins to visit in mexico

Uxmal is a Mexico Ruin near Mexico City.  Source

Uxmal is one of the most famous Mayan ruins in Mexico.

Extremely popular among tourists, Uxmal is definitely worthy of the crowds. Considered one of the most important Mexican ruins, Uxmal is in remarkable condition and appears as if it was only uninhabited yesterday.

The pyramid of the magician, the largest pyramid found at Uxmal, was constructed with an elliptical base, giving an unusual appearance to this Mexican ruin.

4) Teotihuacan

which ruins to visit in mexico

Teotihuacan is a Mexico uin with a huge pyramid complex near Mexico City.  Source

With its origins shrouded in mystery, this Mexican ruin is home to some of the largest pyramids in all of Mexico. The ancient site boasts some of the best preserved and most visited ruins in the entire country.

The largest pyramids in Mexico, they are neither Mayan or Aztec.

Some strange discoveries in the last few years have created more interest in this once flourishing city. Most notably a mysterious underground chamber full of liquid mercury.

What Mexican ruins are near Cancun?

which ruins to visit in mexico

Tulum is a Mexico Ruin near Cancun.

Overlooking Mexico’s stunning Caribbean coast, this ancient site marks the location the invading Conquistadores first met the Maya.

While this particular Mexican ruin isn’t the largest or most impressive, it is one of the most picturesque. Sitting high on a hill overlooking the blue waters below, the stone watchtower ‘El Castillo’ is the most iconic aspect of Tulum.

which ruins to visit in mexico

El Rey is a Mexican Ruin near Cancun.  Source

El Rey is the most important archaeological site in Cancún. It consists of 47 structures that preserve remnants of a mural painting that depict Mayan deities and symbols. These buildings served as temples and residences for high-status people.

The most important building is structure 2. A Mayan pyramid base of great height and the only one with a temple.

Structures I and 4 are huge palaces made up of large galleries with columns that held the flat roof; it is possible that administrative functions took place here.

The site seems to be founded in 300 B.C. After some research, it can be assumed that, between 200 and 1200 A.D., its inhabitants were primarily dedicated to fishing and salt mining.

El Rey became an important site quite late in its history. From 1300 to 1550 A.D. important groups came to settle in the coasts of the modern state of Quintana Roo.

which ruins to visit in mexico

The Mexico Ruin Coba near Cancun.

Also known as the city of white roads, Coba’s claim to fame is its enormous stone causeways systems. Over 50 have been discovered within the site, which is intricately connected as a result.

Trees and jungle are still growing wild as much of the city has only been partly excavated, creating a wild atmosphere for exploration. As Coba isn’t well known among tourists, there is plenty of room to climb and investigate this ancient Mexican ruin.

Other Mexico Ruins to visit on your travels

8) Angamuco

which ruins to visit in mexico

The Mexico Ruin of Angamuco made by a lost civilization.  Source

Only recently discovered, this ancient Mexican ruin was once made up of as many buildings as Manhattan. Much of the city remains underground. As many as 40,000 buildings, including pyramids, temples, and ball courts are among the structures that make up this ‘lost city.’ The Purepecha are thought to have constructed it; a lesser-known culture who rivaled the Aztecs in ancient Mexico.

9) Chacchoben

which ruins to visit in mexico

The hidden pyramid at the Mexico Ruins of Chacchoben.

Because of its remote jungle location, Chacchoben is one of the lesser-known Mexican ruins. This doesn’t mean it isn’t worth exploration though, with this ancient Mayan site full of pyramids and unexcavated mysteries.

Many of the structures found within the site still bear the traces of red paint. Some believe the paint may have once covered the entire city.

10) Bonampak

which ruins to visit in mexico

Room 1 of the Mexican Ruin Bonampak.

Made up of beautifully painted murals and colorful artworks, Bonampak is home to some of the best-preserved artworks of the Mayan culture in Mexico.

Although it is small, this Mexican ruin gives a rare glimpse into the daily lives of a lost civilization.

which ruins to visit in mexico

The Mexico Ruins of Mitla.  Source

Intricate geometric architecture makes the Mexican ruins of Mitla some of the most amazing in all of Mexico. Only a small percentage of the once vibrant city still stands today, with many structures containing subtle mosaics and geometric patterns made from perfectly fitted standing stones .

Mitla was originally very important to the Zapotec civilization, who had their major religious and political centers located within the city.

12) El Tajin

which ruins to visit in mexico

Mexico Ruins of El Tajin.

The builders of this Mexican ruin are still unknown to archaeologists and historians alike, making this ancient site especially interesting. Although much of the city remains unexcavated, what was uncovered is breathtaking and beautifully preserved.

The largest structure at the site, The Pyramid of the Niches, was once made up of 365 separate alcoves; revealing its importance in regards to the solar year.

which ruins to visit in mexico

Mexico Ruins of Edzna.  Source

Edzna is home to one of the most unique of all the Mexican ruins. The Great Acropolis is a 5-story structure that is something between a pyramid and a palace.

The Mayan culture responsible for building it would be proud to see it still in such good condition. Because of its beauty, Edzna has become one of the most photographed ruins in all of Mexico.

14) Palenque

which ruins to visit in mexico

The Palenque pyramids, a Mexico ruin 500 miles south of Mexico City.

With age and size aside, Palenque is most famous for its stunning sculpture, epigraphs, and architecture. Because of the remote jungle location of this Mexican ruin, travelers to the site are greeted by a sense of wilderness as they share the cities ruins with animals and birds alike.

15) Templo Mayor

which ruins to visit in mexico

The Mexico Ruins of Templo Mayor.  Source

Best known as a site of countless human sacrifices, this Mexican ruin was believed to be the center of the world by the Aztec.

Although it’s original state is hard to imagine, Templo Mayor was once a twin temple site honoring two Aztec Gods in which the city was dedicated. As an important site to the ancients, it underwent as many as seven reconstructions throughout its decorated history.

16) Xochicalco

which ruins to visit in mexico

The Mexico ruins of Xochicalco.  Source

An underground tunnel system connects many of the key buildings at Xochicalco. This has led many to ponder the cities original purpose. The Mexican ruin is known to have been heavily fortified and was once a crossroads for culture, religion, and trade in the ancient world.

This has made it popular among travelers, as it is the perfect site to get an understanding of what life was like for cultures like the Aztec, Toltec, and Mixtec.

17) Calakmul

which ruins to visit in mexico

The Mexico Ruins of Calakmul is a little known Mayan Ruin.

Deep in the jungle of southern Mexico is one of the best-kept secrets of the ancient world. Calakmul is a stunning Mayan ruin that consists of over 6500 known structures.

Among these are a 150-foot tall pyramid and one of the tallest temples found in all of Mexico. For a city that was once home to over 50,000 people, it still remains very hidden from tourists.

which ruins to visit in mexico

The Toltec warriors of the Tula Mexico Ruins.

Although the main pyramid at Tula isn’t huge, it is beautifully decorated and extremely well made. Sitting atop of the structure are 4 carved figures, thought to be ancient Toltec warriors.

The sophistication and skill needed to create such works is large, with the 4-meter figures carved from solid basalt. This Mexican ruin was once the capital of the Toltec empire and has many references to the quasi-mythical God Quetzalcoatl.

Mexico is home to thousands of ruins that span many different ancient civilizations.

If you’re traveling the area, make sure to visit one near you!

Now it’s up to you. Have you visited any of the ancient ruins in this post?

What other ruins would you suggest to visit?

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7 of Mexico’s best ruins, and how you can see them

A group of travellers sitting at a ruin in Mexico

You could spend a lifetime exploring Mexico’s ancient ruins and still not see them all.

Open air museums spanning the length and breadth of this fascinating country, no trip is complete without visiting at least one of these archaeological wonders.

What are the differences between the ancient Mexican cultures?

The Mesoamerican civilisations that developed in Mexico in pre-Columbian times had many cultural similarities – such as building temples and pyramids – but were distinct peoples. The Olmecs were found along the Gulf Coast around modern-day Veracruz, the Zapotecs were in the southern Oaxaca region, the Aztecs ruled much of central and southern Mexico, while the Mayas stretched over the south east, such as the Yucatan Peninsula and into Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras.

EXPLORE OUR FULL RANGE OF SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES IN MEXICO NOW

Can I climb the ruins?

The steps on an ancient ruin in Mexico, with blue sky behind

Photo by Nathan Landers.

Generally yes, although it depends on the site. Perhaps the best known, Chichen Itza, stopped allowing climbing several years ago due to a number of tourists falling and injuring themselves. If in doubt, always ask before climbing.

RELATED: 5 REASONS WHY MEXICO IS THE ULTIMATE SOLO TRAVEL DESTINATION

What do I need to be mindful of when visiting these sites?

There will be a bit of walking and climbing involved, so bring water, sensible shoes, and some sun protection. These are historic and protected sites, so be respectful. Pay attention to any sign posts or guides telling you not to enter or climb an area – you’ll be swiftly kicked out if you do something you’re not supposed to.

What are the best ruins to see?

1. calakmul.

This is one you probably haven’t heard of. Buried deep in the wildlife-rich jungles of the central south Yucatan are the ruins of Calakmul. This ancient Maya city and World Heritage-listed site – parts of which are over 2,000 years old – played an integral role during the rule of the Maya empire and was archenemy to nearby Tikal. Almost 7,000 structures remain today, including three pyramids which ascend dramatically above the canopy. One of these, known as ‘Structure 2’, is over 45 metres high, making it one of the biggest and oldest Maya pyramids in the world. And yep, you can climb it! Calakmul is far from everywhere (over six hours drive from Tulum), but it’s worth the hike… you’ll barely see another tourist during your visit.

CLIMB CALAKMUL ON OUR 8-DAY YUCATAN PENINSULA ADVENTURE

2. Teotihuacán

A view of Teotihuacan ruins from above

Photo by Damien Raggatt.

It’s only 50 kilometres from Mexico City, but a journey to Teotihuacán will take you to another world. At its peak between 100 BC and AD 650, the city was thought to be home to 100,000 people, and was probably the largest city in the western world until the 1400s. Scholars still debate which people actually built the city, but the Aztecs came upon it much later and named it Teotihuacán. The ruins feature two towering pyramids, known as the Temple of the Moon and the Temple of the Sun. Walk along the Avenue of the Dead and gaze up at them, before taking to the stairs for a short but steep climb to the top, where it feels like all of Mexico stands before you.

VISIT TEOTIHUACÁN ON OUR 15-DAY BEST OF MEXICO SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

3. Chichen Itza

A female traveller standing in front of some ruins in Mexico

The striking architecture of the Maya civilisation of Chichen Itza saw it named among the New 7 Wonders of the World in 2001. Living between around 250 AD to 900 AD, it is known for the sophisticated society that ruled it, with a written language, astronomical discoveries, and architecture. The people of Chichen Itza built monuments to celestial happenings, many of which you can see among the ruins today. Probably the busiest of all of Mexico’s ruins, there’s never a shortage of tourists around, but covering five square kilometres, there is plenty of room to spread out and explore the fascinating networks of observatories, ball courts and temples.

CHECK OUT CHICHEN ITZA ON OUR 8-DAY YUCATAN PENINSULA ADVENTURE

4. Palenque

An ancient Mayan temple in Mexico

Photo by Jess Kraft.

Much like Egypt’s pharaohs, the Maya rulers of Palenque built tombs deep within their limestone pyramids. One of them, King Pakal, was buried in a chamber in 683 AD, and was only discovered in 1952. Lying within a jungle in Chiapas, it has been excavated and restored to one of the most photogenic of Mexico’s ancient sites. Enjoy the welcoming committee of monkey and parrots, and make your way into the Temple of the Inscriptions, where Pakal’s crypt lies.

A beautiful beach in Tulum, Mexico

Photo by Ben McNamara.

While small compared to nearby sites on the Yucatan Peninsula – and only one tenth remaining of the ancient city itself – Tulum’s ruins sit clinging to some of the country’s most beautiful coastline. The modest structures were built much later than the likes of Chichen Itza, but what they lack in grandeur they more than make up for with that location. Arrive before the morning sun to see it rise over the ruins; you may even have them entirely to yourself to explore.

CHILL OUT IN TULUM ON OUR 13-DAY GUATEMALA TO MEXICO ADVENTURE

6. Monte Alban

Ancient ruins in Mexico

Photo by Vadim Petrakov.

Just west of the city of Oaxaca, this site was once the capital city of the Zapotecs before being taken over by the Mixtec people. Thought to have been established around 500 BC, and lasting for 13 centuries before being abandoned for reasons unknown, the ruins feature an irrigation system as well as signs of trade. Today, the baroque tombs and palace (with evidence of hieroglyphs) is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

MOSEY AROUND MONTE ALBAN ON OUR 9-DAY REAL FOOD ADVENTURE

A row of cactus in front of a crumbling ruin in Mexico

Photo by Barna Tanko.

Southeast of Oaxaca, Mitla was the Zapotec’s capital after the more spectacular Monte Alban. Mitla has a lot going for it, with quadrangle buildings surrounded by chambers with low roofs, but it is somewhat overshadowed by a living witness to this former civilisation. The famous ‘El Tule’ tree, on the road to the ruins in the nearby town of Santa Maria, is thought to be 2,000 years old.

WANDER AROUND MITLA ON OUR 15-DAY REAL MEXICO ADVENTURE – FOR 18 to 29-YEAR-OLDS 

Want to explore Mexico’s incredible ancient sites? Check them out now on a small group adventure with Intrepid . 

Feature photo by Ben McNamara.

Feeling inspired?

which ruins to visit in mexico

Elle Hardy is a foreign correspondent and travel writer based in the United States, regularly contributing to the ABC, The Monthly, IB Times, and others. Originally from Sydney, she has spent much of the last couple of years reporting from almost every country in the former USSR. The single best and worst thing she has ever done is ridden on a roller coaster in North Korea.

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which ruins to visit in mexico

7 Ancient Ruins You Must Visit in Mexico

As spicy as the salsa you’ll find in its restaurants, Mexico is a nation awash with incredible landscapes: northern deserts, jungle highlands and beaches to blow you away. Pre-Columbian civilisations firmly left their mark on Mexico’s great lands; the entire country is scattered with ancient ruins and archaeological wonders as well as charmingly, colourful towns left behind by colonialists and beautifully preserved by locals today. 

It would be a crime to step foot in Mexico without visiting one of its many ancient sites, of which 180 are open to the public. We’ve gathered the top seven ancient ruins that you must absolutely not miss when on a trip to Mexico.

Post Contents

1. Chichen Itza – The Mayan Metropolis 

2. palenque ruins – an ancient site shrouded in dense jungle, 3. the tulum ruins – mexico’s best preserved coastal ancient site, 4. monte alban pyramid – one of mexico’s most dramatic ancient sites, 5. uxmal – one of the most important mayan sites in mexico, 6. coba – ancient pyramids you can climb, 7. teotihuacan – home to mexico’s mightiest pyramids.

An easy day trip from Cancun , on the Yucatan Peninsula sits Mexico’s most visited archaeological site, Chichen Itza. Usually considered the most important and famous Mayan site, Chichen Itza is believed to have been a capital city of the region and although popular amongst tourists, this UNESCO World Heritage site is still definitely a must-see on your trip. 

Standing at a massive 30 metres high, El Castillo, also known as the Pyramid of Kukulkan is the site’s tallest structure and dominates the centre of Chichen Itza. Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, it is also one of the most popular Instagram photo spots in Mexico.

Another unique and noteworthy site is the slowly eroding 1,000-year-old observatory El Caracol, which not only stands as a testament to the architectural skill of the Mayans but was said to be used by priests to determine the date. El Caracol, which means ‘snail’ in Spanish, is named so due to the spiral staircase inside the tower.

You can explore Chichen Itza on this wonderful 12-Day Yucatan Peninsula Road Trip that sees you wandering ancient sites, diving into cenotes and relaxing on beautiful beaches. 

which ruins to visit in mexico

In the Savannah of Chiapas, with a dramatic mountain setting surrounded by dense jungle is where you will find the most impressive of all Mexico’s Mayan ruins, Palenque. 

The Mayan ruins of Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage site and testimony to the resources of the Maya, are as important as Chichen Itza and Uxmal in historical significance and architectural magnificence. 

The Temple of Inscriptions, named for the hieroglyphics and inscriptions inside, is perhaps the most significant structure on the site as it tells stories and shows facts of approximately 180 years of the city’s history from the 4th to 12th centuries. Many of which are now on display at Mexico’s National Museum of Anthropology.

Speaking of Museums, on your trip to Palenque, stop at the museum near the entry that provides a panoramic insight into the orientation of the city and its history, learning about the ancient art, religion, rituals and daily life of the Mayan culture.

Explore the wonders of Palenque and the Chiapas region on this 8-day Chiapas Mexico tour . 

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which ruins to visit in mexico

In the Mayan Riviera, within reach of the popular beaches of Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Cozumel, lie the well-preserved Tulum ruins. Famous for being the only fortified Mayan settlement on the coast and for its tall fortress-like walls, these ruins perched atop 12-metre-high cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea can be seen for miles. With the uninterrupted view of the rising sun, Tulum’s original name Zama meaning “place of the dawning sun” seems fitting. 

An archeological must-see, Tulum site is one of the very few walled cities built by the Mayans with walls located on only three sides of the settlement, as the ocean ‘protects’ the final side. The earliest date found inscribed on stelae at the site is A.D. 564 with an estimated population of 1,000-1,600 inhabitants of Tulum at the time. 

What hands down makes Tulum ruins so special, is the cannot-be-missed views of the Caribbean Sea. A pathway from the village leads to a sandy beach with turquoise ocean waters which are perfect for swimming and snapping photos is the ideal finish to the ruins. 

Explore the best of Mexico’s hidden treasures and the Tulum ruins on this 7-Day Secret Hideaways trip. 

which ruins to visit in mexico

Only nine kilometres outside of Oaxaca City, an ancient city built on a high plateau 400 metres above the valley, with expansive views of a once-great empire, is the Monte Alban archaeological site. 

The unique setting surrounded by plains, mountains, colourful trees and the sprawling Oaxaca City below makes this UNESCO World Heritage site well worth the five-hour drive if you’re coming from Mexico City. Not to mention the historical importance it represents; as one of Mexico’s first major cities, the Monte Alban archaeological site remained continuously inhabited for 13 centuries, unlike many other ancient sites. 

Wander around the site to uncover, with some imagination, what life in Monte Alban would have been like. Notable architecture, ball courts, tombs, pyramids and temples as well as the unique stone carvings known as ‘Los Danzantes’ hidden in stones are scattered throughout the site.

As with many of the ancient sites through Mexico, there is a museum on-site with historical artifacts, stelae and bones from burial sites that were found nearby. Be sure to check it out on the way in, or the way out! The museum is air-conditioned and is a nice reprieve from exploring the ruins in the sun.

Discover these unique ruins and the wonderful city of Oaxaca on a Mexico private tour .

which ruins to visit in mexico

Spread over 150 acres, Uxmal and its giant Pyramid of the Magician appears out of harsh jungle landscape with its height and unique, smooth-curved design (unlike most Mayan buildings in Mexico) make it one of the ancient Mayan’s most unique structures. Located more inland than other sites, it is still, according to some, one of the most important ancient ruins in Mexico. 

Another of the most impressive structures on the site, the Great Pyramid provides the best vantage point to look out over the ancient city of Uxmal and the ruins that remain there. 

If you think the climb to the top is easy, you’re very wrong. While it is achievable and worth the climb, be prepared for steep, shallow steps that require climbing, not just stepping. Unfortunately, you can no longer climb the giant Pyramid of the Magician. 

Considering its prestigious reputation and its UNESCO World Heritage site title, it is surprisingly much quieter than its neighbouring sites. With fewer people than Chichen Itza and Tulum Ruins, Uxmal can be really enjoyed without battling busloads of people. 

Climb to the top of the Uxmal Pyramids and visit many other ancient archaeological sites on this 12-Day Yucatan Peninsula Road Trip . 

which ruins to visit in mexico

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, only 44 kilometres northwest of Tulum (less than an hour by car), you will find the ancient Mayan city of Coba with more than 6,500 ruins for you to discover at your own pace. 

The Mayan name Coba meaning “water stirred by the wind” is rather fitting as these ruins are surrounded by natural lagoons, a rare sight in the Yucatan.

Surprisingly, Coba doesn’t see as much tourism as places like Chichen Itza or the ruins of Tulum, so if you arrive early you may get to explore the ruins by yourself with only the birds, the jungle and your imagination to accompany you. 

Coba’s ancient pyramid, Nohoch Mul is open to the public to climb if you want to tackle the 130 super steep steps to the top. Get to the top and you’re guaranteed an unbelievable view of the Coba ruins and surrounding jungle. Coba Pyramid is the highest in the Yucatan Peninsula, standing even taller than Chichen Itza. So, if you’re not afraid of heights (and are wearing appropriate footwear) the views and photo opportunities are waiting for you! 

Discover these ancient pyramids and more on this 10-Day Riviera Maya Escape trip.

which ruins to visit in mexico

Teotihuacan, famous for its large pyramids dedicated to the sun and the moon and one of the largest and most important archeological sites, lies just 50 kilometres north of Mexico City . With an estimated two million visitors each year and its UNESCO World Heritage status, this site is a must-see day trip when holidaying in Mexico. 

Built between the 1st and 7th centuries, Teotihuacan is said to be once a holy city where gods were created. The city of Teotihuacan played a hugely important and vital role in Mesoamerica, a geographical area now known as the modern-day countries of Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. It’s cultural and artistic influences spread throughout this region and beyond. 

The vast size of its monuments are a particular interest of this archaeological site, especially the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon which all sit on the ‘Avenue of the Dead’ which runs through the site. 

Explore Teotihuacan and other epic landscapes on this 2-week Mexico trip . 

Whether your trip to Mexico is dedicated to discovering ancient ruins, swimming in cenotes or you want to explore everything that Mexico has to offer, Designer Journeys’s Local Designers have years of experience ensuring that every single trip is packed with local experiences and designed exactly to your requirements. 

Check out the Mexico Trip Gallery to browse our range of fully-customisable trips or design your own trip from scratch today. 

Mexico not for you? Ignite your wanderlust with any of our 60-plus destinations worldwide .

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Grace Homer

At my desk, you'll find me tapping out inspiring adventures, finessing incredible trips designed by Local Designers and focussing on all things content. Having lived in Southeast Asia between Vietnam and Bali for three years, I'm now keeping toasty with a cuppa in a little English town planning future adventures for which I have constant inspiration. Offline, there's nothing I enjoy more than long cycle rides, fueling the foodie in me and seeking out new spots - preferably all at the same time. Find me on LinkedIn or Instagram and keep an eye out for travel inspiration here!

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which ruins to visit in mexico

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Best places to visit in mexico for 2023-2024.

With year-round warm weather and diverse destinations ranging from metropolitan Mexico City to the sands of Tulum, Mexico boasts vacation spots that appeal to all sorts of visitors. To help you determine which locale is best for you, U.S. News compiled this list of the best places to visit in Mexico by factoring in cultural attractions, food options, beaches, water-based activities and nightlife, along with traveler votes and expert opinions. Vote for your favorite vacation spots below to help us determine next year's ranking. (Note: The U.S. Department of State advises against traveling to certain Mexican states due to crime; check the  website  for updates before booking your trip, and be cautious if you decide to travel.)

Zihuatanejo

Isla mujeres, isla holbox, mexico city, playa del carmen.

which ruins to visit in mexico

Located on Mexico's Pacific coast, Zihuatanejo offers travelers an authentic Mexico experience full of brilliant sunsets and laid-back vibes. In this fishing village, shopaholics can buy local handicrafts (think: ceramics and woodcarvings), and foodies can savor fresh fish tacos and ceviche along the beach. The city's Playa La Ropa serves as the main beach and stands out because of its clean, family-friendly atmosphere. Playa Larga, another excellent beach option, is set slightly outside of town, so it offers a quieter atmosphere and plenty of room to sprawl out. Just off the coast, divers and snorkelers can pick from several dive sites brimming with marine life.

which ruins to visit in mexico

Home to Mexico's most famous waterfront Mayan ruins, Tulum appeals to history buffs and water lovers alike. Positioned along a coastal stretch of the Riviera Maya, about 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen, Tulum offers some of the best hotels in Mexico , ranging from small boutique hotels to wellness retreats to all-inclusive resorts. Regardless of where you stay, you can spend time lounging on some of the world's most beautiful beaches (try traveler-approved Playa Paraíso or Playa Ruinas), exploring ancient ruins (consider booking a daytrip to nearby Chichén Itzá for a larger-scale site) and swimming in secluded cenotes, unique underwater caves located around the Yucatán Peninsula.

which ruins to visit in mexico

This island is probably best known for two things: coral reefs and cruise ships. Travelers love this destination's brilliant blue water and laid-back beaches, plus its abundance of water sports activities. Numerous outfitters and resorts offer kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling gear. While you could spend every minute in the water or on the beach with a good book, Cozumel is also a quiet place to learn about Mayan culture. Visit the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio archaeological site for a dose of pre-Hispanic history.

which ruins to visit in mexico

Ixtapa's curved coastline is packed with hotels, restaurants and nightlife, giving the Pacific coast city (located just north of Zihuatanejo) a bustling vibe. Playa El Palmar, the main beach, often proves better for sunset strolls and people-watching than swimming or snorkeling due to the strong waves. Still, warm, clear and generally gentle water and coral beds farther offshore make Ixtapa one of the best places for beginner scuba enthusiasts. Anyone interested in the area's history should also explore the Archaeological Museum of the Costa Grande, a small museum that details the various cultures and events that make the region unique. 

which ruins to visit in mexico

A great option for a weekend stay or a quick daytrip tour , Isla Mujeres is set off the coast of Cancún and offers beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and coral reefs ready for exploration. In fact, it's one of the best places to go snorkeling in the world thanks to a unique underwater museum and one of the world's largest coral reefs (home to all sorts of colorful fish). See marine life from another perspective on a glass bottom boat. When you want to catch some rays, Playa Norte is the most popular beach, framed by white sand, turquoise water and swaying palm trees.

which ruins to visit in mexico

Quiet beaches, a relaxed atmosphere and stunning crystal-clear water are some of Isla Holbox's standout attributes. This up-and-coming slice of paradise is perfect for travelers looking to truly get away from it all, thanks to its car-free, off-the-beaten-path location. Isla Holbox is situated off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula and only 26 miles long. Expect quaint boutique hotels, stretches of white sand beaches (Playa Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito are two top spots), opportunities for snorkeling and sailing, and more than 100 species of birds, including vibrantly colored flamingoes.

which ruins to visit in mexico

About 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a small beach town known for awesome surfing conditions and scenic stretches of sand. If you've never surfed before, sign up for a lesson from a local to learn. Visitors can also go whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, horseback riding or zip lining, or hop on a relaxing boat tour. After a day of fun in the sun, head into town to check out the local art galleries and grab a bite to eat at one of the tasty restaurants (Sayulita is a burgeoning foodie destination), which feature everything from cheap eats to fine dining.

which ruins to visit in mexico

Anglers recognize Manzanillo as a world-class deep-sea fishing destination for anyone searching for sailfish and marlin, but many types of travelers will enjoy a trip to this Pacific coast destination, located 170 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. The city's two bays mean there is no shortage of beaches for visitors to swim and sunbathe on: Top spots include Playa la Audiencia and Playa Salagua. Water sports like snorkeling and kayaking are also popular activities to enjoy here. If you have time, visit the small town of Barra de Navidad (about 30 miles northwest) for charming hotels, restaurants and stores along the beach. 

which ruins to visit in mexico

Dreamy white sand , nightclubs, all-inclusive resorts and inexpensive flights from the U.S. make Cancún a go-to spot for spring breakers and vacationers seeking an easy beach getaway. But this city on the Yucatán Peninsula also sits close to lush jungles and tranquil cenotes, making it an excellent option for nature lovers. Not to mention, travelers will find diverse and cheap street food served from various carts in the downtown area. Visiting in fall or winter will ensure you see this city (one of the most-visited spots in Mexico) in its most tranquil light, but December through April is when the weather is closest to perfect.

which ruins to visit in mexico

Ornate baroque and neoclassical buildings, busy plazas and colorful homes are everywhere you turn in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city. Guanajuato, situated about 50 miles west of San Miguel de Allende, is known for its subterranean streets and tunnels, which you can explore on a walking tour or at your own leisure. After admiring the city's cobblestone roadways and charming colonial architecture, grab a souvenir or bite to eat at the bustling Mercado Hidalgo. If you enjoy art, arrive in October when the popular Festival Internacional Cervantino takes place.

which ruins to visit in mexico

As the capital of Yucatán, Mérida's rich culture is visible around every turn. White stone mansions line Paseo de Montejo (the city's main street), while vibrant Sunday markets provide a taste of old-world Mexico. Those looking for Mayan ruins are also in luck; many ancient archaeological sites are in close proximity, including the famed Chichén Itzá just 75 miles east. Meanwhile, museum and art enthusiasts praise El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida, as well as the city's art galleries and local murals. When it comes to lodging, travelers will have their pick of quaint boutique hotels.

which ruins to visit in mexico

The most populous city in Mexico is steeped in history and culture. Mexico City boasts delectable cuisine, ancient Aztec sites and world-class hotels – all at fairly low costs – but if you feel like splurging, you'll find an array of high-end shops along the tree-lined Avenida Presidente Masaryk in the Polanco neighborhood. Must-see attractions in Mexico City include the Zócalo, the Palace of Fine Arts, Chapultepec Castle and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. And if you want to eat your way through the city, consider signing up for a food tour .

which ruins to visit in mexico

For a vacation packed with authentic character, head to Puebla. This city, which sits about 80 miles southeast of Mexico City, is filled with colonial architecture and numerous churches, but its main draws are its stunning Talavera pottery, its historical forts and museums, and its sweet and spicy cuisine. Visitors must try mole poblano (made with numerous ingredients, including chiles, meat, chocolate, cinnamon and garlic) and chiles en nogada (chiles stuffed with beef and served with a walnut sauce and fruit like peaches, apples and pomegranate seeds). When the sun sets, venture to Callejón de los Sapos to listen to live music.

which ruins to visit in mexico

Playa del Carmen boasts an exciting food scene, with eateries dishing out everything from delectable tacos and tostadas to sushi and expertly cooked seafood, plus an even hipper bar culture. What's more, this destination in the Riviera Maya beckons to vacationers with its soft white sand blanketing its beaches and its stunning shoreline views. Visitors can also bike to a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip or hit the links at one of the numerous surrounding golf courses. All-inclusive resorts , vacation rentals and boutique properties abound in Playa del Carmen, too, giving travelers plenty of options to find the best fit for their preferences and budgets.

which ruins to visit in mexico

This secluded vacation spot is known for its luxurious lodging options (from vacation rentals to high-end hotels like the St. Regis and the Four Seasons), golf courses and charming beaches, such as El Anclote and Playa de Punta Mita. The small resort village of Punta Mita sits on a peninsula in Banderas Bay and most appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing atmosphere. Those interested in scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and surfing will be able to enjoy those activities here as well. If you're visiting between December and March, book a whale watching tour for a chance to see humpback or orca whales.

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More From Forbes

When is the best time to visit mexico.

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The Mexican flag flies over the Zocalo, the main square in Mexico City. The Metropolitan Cathedral ... [+] faces the square, also referred to as Constitution Square.

Mexico is Latin America’s most visited destination. And there are so many reasons for that. Excellent, culturally rich cities, ancient ruins, exceptional cuisine, gorgeous beaches and top tier resorts at a range of price points all lure in travelers, most of which hail from the United States. When planning to visit Mexico, the options can feel seemingly endless, if not overwhelming. What’s the best place to go? What’s the best time to go? Do you want to visit a major city or beach locale or both? The good news: There’s really no bad time to visit Mexico, depending which part of the country you choose to visit at various times of year. Here’s when and where to go in Mexico.

Peak Travel Season In Mexico

Peak travel season in Mexico varies with the destination.

“Depending on your interests, anytime can be the right time to visit Mexico. With Mexico’s diverse destinations and geography, festivals and special events can create a robust calendar throughout the year,” says George Hunter, Vice President of Leisure Sales for Posadas, Mexico’s largest hospitality group. “For beach resorts, late December through early April are typically high season, with another peak during July and August for summer vacations.”

The tail of a humpback whale in the Sea of Cortezon off Mexico's California Peninsula.

Understanding Mexico’s Dry And Wet Seasons

“Mexico’s dry season is from December to April, and the wet season is from May to October,” says Alex Andrade, managing director at Viceroy Los Cabos . “However, certain regions such as Cancún and Los Cabos enjoy warm weather and sunny skies most of the year, so summer is also a wonderful time to visit there.” Keep in mind that rain storms may be brief and preceded or followed by sunny skies. On the Atlantic Coast, hurricanes are most likely in the hottest months, with September being a particularly vulnerable time for tropical storms.

The Best Times To Visit Mexico

“Mexico is a fantastic destination throughout the year, depending on what travelers are looking for,” says Andrade. “December to April offers ideal, balmy weather in most areas and a higher chance of spotting whales for those heading to the West Coast. If travelers would prefer to avoid the high season, May is a great option since it’s after spring break but before summer trips begin. November also provides a respite before peak season, and visitors will see less inclement weather as the rainy season ends.”

Mayan Ruins overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in Tulum on the Riviera Maya.

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, the best time to visit mexico’s beaches.

The best time to visit Mexico’s beaches is December through April. Hurricane season is typically May through November, so many travelers prefer not to plan for a potentially rainy or flooded beach vacation, though deals can certainly be found at these times. Shoulder season is also a great time to visit Mexican beaches. Many properties offer deals in January, following the holiday travel surge.

The Best Time To Visit Mexico’s Cities

Depending on which city you want to visit, there’s a best time of year for various regions.

If you’re looking to visit Mexico during the summer, Valle de Guadalupe may be your best bed. “Since Valle de Guadalupe is in the north of Baja California, the rainy season is in the winter when storms come through from the Pacific Ocean, although the storms are usually moderate in strength by the time they reach Baja,” says Gustavo Ortega, CEO of El Cielo Resorts. “The dry season in Valle de Guadalupe is the summer months, and although it’s typically hot during this time, there are consistent coastal breezes that provide relief from the heat throughout the day.” July and August bring grape harvests to Valle de Guadalupe, which means plenty of parties, wine tastings, workshops, concerts, chef demonstrations and more.

A vineyard in Mexico's Valle De Guadalupe.

Spring and summer are great times to visit Mexico’s cities including Guadalajara, Oaxaca, Puebla, Tijuana and Mexico City if you don’t mind a little rain or excessive heat (there may be a breeze!) at various points over the summer. Another perk of visiting in summer: Many residents are traveling to nearby beach towns, so there may be more space to explore in Mexico’s dense metro areas.

“In Mexico, the best time to visit cities like Mexico City, is mid-March through early May or in late October,” says Antonio Mejía, Marketing and Communications Manager at Andaz Mexico City Condesa. “This is when travelers experience the best weather and some of the city’s most popular events. The best time to visit beaches, like Tulum, is during the winter months December through April, but the weather there is pretty great year-round.”

Visiting cities in late October or early November is an attractive time to visit thanks to the Dìa de los Muertos events held throughout town, which now overlap with Formula 1 Mexico City Grand Prix.

A celebratory toast on the Day of the Dead in Mexico City.

The Best Time To Visit Mexico’s Ruins

If you want to avoid crowds and traffic, visiting Mexico’s ruins just before or after peak travel season is ideal. Opt for the shoulder months in the dry season, like September and November or April and May.

Top Spots To Visit In Mexico

Mexico is one of the world’s largest countries, comprised of 32 states and a population of over 130 million people. Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations include Mexico City, which is the country’s capital and North America’s largest city, as well as the East and West Coast. On the East Coast, The Yucatan Peninsula is popular for resort-goers flocking to Cancun, Riviera Maya and Tulum. On the West Coast, vacationers like to dip into the Pacific Ocean in destinations including Riviera Nayarit, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta. There are direct flights from the U.S. into Mexico City, Cancún International Airport and Puerto Vallarta International Airport.

Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

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30 Of The Most Fascinating Ancient Ruins On Earth

Posted: November 19, 2023 | Last updated: November 19, 2023

From the Roman and Greek kingdoms of Europe to the Mayan sites of modern Mexico and the Indigenous dwellings of America, these breathtaking ruins offer a fascinating insight into how some of the world’s oldest cultures lived. Here are 30 ancient sites that any history lover should visit at least once in their lifetime.

Spectacular sites to explore

<p>Not far from the balmy beaches and cenotes of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, you’ll find one of the finest surviving examples of Mayan architecture. The site served as the political and economic hub of Mayan civilization between around AD 750 and 1100, and now these impressive ruins offer a unique window into the culture, which shows evidence of amazing astronomical and mathematical skills. Visit the El Castillo temple (pictured) at sunset, and you’ll notice how the shadows cleverly create the illusion of a snake creeping down the staircase. The site gets busy, so it's best to set off early – and be sure to book a guided tour with a Mayan guide.</p>

Chichén Itzá, Mexico

Not far from the balmy beaches and cenotes of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, you’ll find one of the finest surviving examples of Mayan architecture. The site served as the political and economic hub of Mayan civilization between around AD 750 and 1100, and now these impressive ruins offer a unique window into the culture, which shows evidence of amazing astronomical and mathematical skills. Visit the El Castillo temple (pictured) at sunset, and you’ll notice how the shadows cleverly create the illusion of a snake creeping down the staircase. The site gets busy, so it's best to set off early – and be sure to book a guided tour with a Mayan guide.

<p>Located on a rocky hill that towers over Athens, the Acropolis is home to some of antiquity's greatest buildings, including the iconic Parthenon (pictured). The Doric temple was one of the first monuments built here when it was constructed between 447 and 438 BC. It was dedicated to Athena Parthenos, the patron of the city. But don't just visit the Parthenon – be sure to check out the Erechtheum temple, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus theater as well. </p>  <p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/loveexploringUK"><strong>Love this? Follow us on Facebook for more travel inspiration</strong></a></p>

Acropolis, Greece

Located on a rocky hill that towers over Athens, the Acropolis is home to some of antiquity's greatest buildings, including the iconic Parthenon (pictured). The Doric temple was one of the first monuments built here when it was constructed between 447 and 438 BC. It was dedicated to Athena Parthenos, the patron of the city. But don't just visit the Parthenon – be sure to check out the Erechtheum temple, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus theater as well. 

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<p>You’d be hard-pressed to find a more stunning sight than sunrise over Borobudur, with Mount Merapi rising up in the background. This impressive structure, located in Central Java, is the world’s largest Buddhist temple and was built between AD 778 and 850, under the Shailendra dynasty. It’s thought that the ancient kingdom was used for only two centuries before volcanic activity from Merapi, between AD 928 and 1006, led monks to abandon the sacred site. Today, it’s best visited with a guide, which can be hired for around rp 50,000 (£2.65/$3.22).</p>

Borobudur, Indonesia

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more stunning sight than sunrise over Borobudur, with Mount Merapi rising up in the background. This impressive structure, located in Central Java, is the world’s largest Buddhist temple and was built between AD 778 and 850, under the Shailendra dynasty. It’s thought that the ancient kingdom was used for only two centuries before volcanic activity from Merapi, between AD 928 and 1006, led monks to abandon the sacred site. Today, it’s best visited with a guide, which can be hired for around rp 50,000 ($3.22).

<p>Surrounded by the breathtaking Petén rainforest, the legendary pyramids of Tikal were built between around AD 300 and 900. This Mayan city, which was known as Yax Mutal, was among the most powerful kingdoms ever to exist in Mesoamerica. There are six temples here in total, as well as plazas, pyramids and Mayan art and hieroglyphics. The tallest, Pyramid IV, measures 213 feet (63m) from the ground to its pinnacle and can be climbed, offering awe-inspiring views of the surrounding structures and rainforest. Be sure to book a guided tour to get the best possible experience, and go as early as you can to beat the crowds. </p>

Tikal, Guatemala

Surrounded by the breathtaking Petén rainforest, the legendary pyramids of Tikal were built between around AD 300 and 900. This Mayan city, which was known as Yax Mutal, was among the most powerful kingdoms ever to exist in Mesoamerica. There are six temples here in total, as well as plazas, pyramids and Mayan art and hieroglyphics. The tallest, Pyramid IV, measures 213 feet from the ground to its pinnacle and can be climbed, offering awe-inspiring views of the surrounding structures and rainforest. Be sure to book a guided tour to get the best possible experience, and go as early as you can to beat the crowds. 

<p>Arguably the most famous Roman ruin in the world, the Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built. It took around eight years to construct and it was intended as a gift to the Roman people from emperor Vespasian, who ruled from AD 69 to 79. In its heyday, it could hold up to 80,000 spectators. Yet the Colosseum is also a reminder of the brutality of the Roman empire; it's thought that around 60,000 slaves participated in building the monumental structure, while an estimated 400,000 people died here either in executions or as gladiators.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/127724/30-amazing-sights-older-than-stonehenge?page=1"><strong>Check out the 30 sites which are actually older than Stonehenge</strong></a></p>

Colosseum, Italy

Arguably the most famous Roman ruin in the world, the Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built. It took around eight years to construct and it was intended as a gift to the Roman people from emperor Vespasian, who ruled from AD 69 to 79. In its heyday, it could hold up to 80,000 spectators. Yet the Colosseum is also a reminder of the brutality of the Roman empire; it's thought that around 60,000 slaves participated in building the monumental structure, while an estimated 400,000 people died here either in executions or as gladiators.

Check out the 30 sites which are actually older than Stonehenge

<p>It’s hard not to be awestruck by the sight of this mighty stone circle rising from Salisbury Plain in southwest England. The most famous prehistoric monument in Europe, Stonehenge was erected in the late Neolithic period in around 2500 BC and is now part of an UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with nearby Avebury. While it's widely known that Stonehenge's smaller bluestones came from Wales, evidence has suggested that part of the famous stone circle was first built at a site called Waun Mawn near the Pembrokeshire Coast – around 150 miles (241km) from Stonehenge – before it was dismantled and rebuilt in Wiltshire. </p>

Stonehenge, England, UK

It’s hard not to be awestruck by the sight of this mighty stone circle rising from Salisbury Plain in southwest England. The most famous prehistoric monument in Europe, Stonehenge was erected in the late Neolithic period in around 2500 BC and is now part of an UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with nearby Avebury. While it's widely known that Stonehenge's smaller bluestones came from Wales, evidence has suggested that part of the famous stone circle was first built at a site called Waun Mawn near the Pembrokeshire Coast – around 150 miles from Stonehenge – before it was dismantled and rebuilt in Wiltshire. 

<p>Located near Bangalore in southern India, the magnificent ruins of Hampi are a sight to behold. This legendary kingdom dates back to the 14th century, when it was part of the larger city of Vijayanagara – the capital of the wealthy and prosperous Vijayanagara Empire. However, archaeological studies have found that a city may have stood here as early as the 2nd or 3rd centuries BC. The grand structures, which include temples, shrines, halls and royal residences, were painstakingly carved into granite stone, which was abundant in this region.</p>

Hampi, India

Located near Bangalore in southern India, the magnificent ruins of Hampi are a sight to behold. This legendary kingdom dates back to the 14th century, when it was part of the larger city of Vijayanagara – the capital of the wealthy and prosperous Vijayanagara Empire. However, archaeological studies have found that a city may have stood here as early as the 2nd or 3rd centuries BC. The grand structures, which include temples, shrines, halls and royal residences, were painstakingly carved into granite stone, which was abundant in this region.

<p>Egypt is a hotspot for history fans seeking ancient wonders and Memphis is among its best-preserved ruins. Located around 15 miles (24km) south of Cairo, it was established in 2925 BC by King Menes, and served as the capital of Egypt until it was surpassed by Thebes (modern-day Luxor) in 2240 BC. Today, the site of the former city contains a large open-air museum where visitors can see what remains, which includes an alabaster sphinx monolith (pictured), a colossus of Rameses II and the Djoser Pyramid.</p>

Memphis, Egypt

Egypt is a hotspot for history fans seeking ancient wonders and Memphis is among its best-preserved ruins. Located around 15 miles south of Cairo, it was established in 2925 BC by King Menes, and served as the capital of Egypt until it was surpassed by Thebes (modern-day Luxor) in 2240 BC. Today, the site of the former city contains a large open-air museum where visitors can see what remains, which includes an alabaster sphinx monolith (pictured), a colossus of Rameses II and the Djoser Pyramid.

<p>Stretching across some 5,500 miles (8,850km) of northern China and Mongolia, the Great Wall of China is an iconic monument dating back more than 2,000 years. It was built between the 7th and 3rd centuries BC and was intended to protect China against invaders. It’s a commonly-repeated myth that the structure can be seen from space: in actual fact, the wall is hard to distinguish from the surrounding stone and soil in most orbital photographs. However, it's still utterly awe-inspiring. Many people choose to go to Mutianyu, one of the best-preserved and most magnificent sections. </p>

Great Wall of China, China

Stretching across some 5,500 miles of northern China and Mongolia, the Great Wall of China is an iconic monument dating back more than 2,000 years. It was built between the 7th and 3rd centuries BC and was intended to protect China against invaders. It’s a commonly-repeated myth that the structure can be seen from space: in actual fact, the wall is hard to distinguish from the surrounding stone and soil in most orbital photographs. However, it's still utterly awe-inspiring. Many people choose to go to Mutianyu, one of the best-preserved and most magnificent sections. 

<p>Among the strangest feats of ancient engineering are the Moai statues on Easter Island. It apparently took one year to create each of these 800-plus monolithic statues, using basic stone picks called toki. It’s unclear how they were moved into position – some believe they were rolled up on logs, while others say they were transported upright using ropes. Recent excavations have also shown that the heads are only part of the giant statues: their bodies are buried underground. Given the island’s remote location, getting here isn’t easy, but some people stop over while visiting Australasia or South America. It’s also possible to book a full-day guided tour. </p>

Moai statues, Easter Island, Chile

Among the strangest feats of ancient engineering are the Moai statues on Easter Island. It apparently took one year to create each of these 800-plus monolithic statues, using basic stone picks called toki. It’s unclear how they were moved into position – some believe they were rolled up on logs, while others say they were transported upright using ropes. Recent excavations have also shown that the heads are only part of the giant statues: their bodies are buried underground. Given the island’s remote location, getting here isn’t easy, but some people stop over while visiting Australasia or South America. It’s also possible to book a full-day guided tour. 

<p>The most recognisable temple in Cambodia, Angkor Wat was constructed in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II and was used as his burial place when he died. But the temple is far from the only thing to see here. In fact the entire Angkor Archaeological Park stretches across 154 square miles (400sq km) and contains more than 1,000 buildings, which are considered the best surviving examples of Khmer art and architecture. It’s best to visit at sunrise, when the weather is a little cooler and the park is less crowded, and allow around half a day to explore. </p>

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

The most recognizable temple in Cambodia, Angkor Wat was constructed in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II and was used as his burial place when he died. But the temple is far from the only thing to see here. In fact the entire Angkor Archaeological Park stretches across 154 square miles and contains more than 1,000 buildings, which are considered the best surviving examples of Khmer art and architecture. It’s best to visit at sunrise, when the weather is a little cooler and the park is less crowded, and allow around half a day to explore. 

<p>Mexico is home to plenty of enchanting ruins and Palenque, located in Chiapas state, is definitely worth a visit. Tucked amid tropical rainforests you’ll find the remains of a once-prosperous Mayan city, which includes the 7th-century Temple of the Inscriptions, built to house the body of Mayan king K'inich Janaab Pakal. But just 5% of the ancient city has been excavated, meaning we’re sure to learn more about this ancient kingdom in decades to come. It’s best visited with the help of a local tour guide – and it’s also worth staying a couple of nights in the town of Palenque while you’re here and visiting the stunning Roberto Barrios waterfalls too. </p>

Palenque, Mexico

Mexico is home to plenty of enchanting ruins and Palenque, located in Chiapas state, is definitely worth a visit. Tucked amid tropical rainforests you’ll find the remains of a once-prosperous Mayan city, which includes the 7th-century Temple of the Inscriptions, built to house the body of Mayan king K'inich Janaab Pakal. But just 5% of the ancient city has been excavated, meaning we’re sure to learn more about this ancient kingdom in decades to come. It’s best visited with the help of a local tour guide – and it’s also worth staying a couple of nights in the town of Palenque while you’re here and visiting the stunning Roberto Barrios waterfalls too. 

<p>Located around eight miles (12km) off the coast of Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, Skellig Michael is a rugged isle topped by a monastic settlement which is believed to date back to the 6th century. Monks lived here until the 13th century, when they were driven back to the mainland by harsh weather conditions. More recently, Skellig Michael portrayed Luke Skywalker's beloved island sanctuary, on the planet Ahch-To, in the <em>Star Wars</em> saga. The smaller island of Little Skellig can be seen in the distance. Both can be visited on boat tours, most of which depart from Portmagee marina.</p>

Skellig Michael, Republic of Ireland

Located around eight miles off the coast of Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, Skellig Michael is a rugged isle topped by a monastic settlement which is believed to date back to the 6th century. Monks lived here until the 13th century, when they were driven back to the mainland by harsh weather conditions. More recently, Skellig Michael portrayed Luke Skywalker's beloved island sanctuary, on the planet Ahch-To, in the Star Wars saga. The smaller island of Little Skellig can be seen in the distance. Both can be visited on boat tours, most of which depart from Portmagee marina.

<p>Three mighty pyramids can be found at the site of Giza in northern Egypt. The largest, the Great Pyramid, originally stood at 482 feet (147m) and was constructed by King Khufu between 2550 and 2490 BC, using a whopping 2.3 million stone blocks. Khafre is the second largest and was built by King Khafre (2558-2532 BC), Khufu’s son – it’s widely believed that the Sphinx standing outside was built for Khafre too. Finally there’s Menkaure, standing at just 213 feet (65m) tall, which was completed in the 26th century BC. </p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/127144/secrets-of-the-pharaohs-inside-egypts-pyramids?page=1"><strong>These are the most amazing secrets hidden inside Egypt's pyramids</strong></a></p>

Giza Pyramids, Egypt

Three mighty pyramids can be found at the site of Giza in northern Egypt. The largest, the Great Pyramid, originally stood at 482 feet and was constructed by King Khufu between 2550 and 2490 BC, using a whopping 2.3 million stone blocks. Khafre is the second largest and was built by King Khafre (2558-2532 BC), Khufu’s son – it’s widely believed that the Sphinx standing outside was built for Khafre too. Finally there’s Menkaure, standing at just 213 feet tall, which was completed in the 26th century BC. 

These are the most amazing secrets hidden inside Egypt's pyramids

<p>Hidden among the rugged desert landscapes of southwestern Jordan, Petra is an ancient city that was carved into the rock more than 2,000 years ago by the Nabataeans (a nomadic tribe who eventually settled) and it became the capital of their prosperous empire. The most famous structure is the Treasury (pictured), a 131-foot-high (40m) monument complete with columns and intricate carvings, whose exact function is still unknown to experts. Petra Archaeological Park is roughly a three-hour drive from the capital, Amman, and two hours from Wadi Rum.</p>

Petra, Jordan

Hidden among the rugged desert landscapes of southwestern Jordan, Petra is an ancient city that was carved into the rock more than 2,000 years ago by the Nabataeans (a nomadic tribe who eventually settled) and it became the capital of their prosperous empire. The most famous structure is the Treasury (pictured), a 131-foot-high monument complete with columns and intricate carvings, whose exact function is still unknown to experts. Petra Archaeological Park is roughly a three-hour drive from the capital, Amman, and two hours from Wadi Rum.

Considered South America’s most significant archaeological site, Machu Picchu astounds all who visit. It's thought that the emperor Pachacutec built the soaring 'Citadel in the Clouds' in the 15th century. The Inca city is the last stop on the four-day Inca Trail hike, but it can also be visited from Cusco: hop aboard the train to Aguas Caliente and enjoy some spectacular scenery on the three-and-a-half hour journey, which winds its way through verdant rainforests.

Machu Picchu, Peru

<p>Located in Luxor, the capital of ancient Egypt, Karnak is a fascinating temple complex that took more than 1,000 years to build. The bulk of construction work took place between the 12th and 20th Dynasties – at its peak, it was the largest and most significant sacred site in the country. Among the impressive structures to gaze at are the Temple of Amun-Re, which was believed to be where the prolific sun deity lived on Earth, and the Great Hypostyle Hall, a jaw-dropping site filled with intricately-carved columns. Allow three to four hours to walk around the entire complex.</p>

Karnak, Egypt

Located in Luxor, the capital of ancient Egypt, Karnak is a fascinating temple complex that took more than 1,000 years to build. The bulk of construction work took place between the 12th and 20th Dynasties – at its peak, it was the largest and most significant sacred site in the country. Among the impressive structures to gaze at are the Temple of Amun-Re, which was believed to be where the prolific sun deity lived on Earth, and the Great Hypostyle Hall, a jaw-dropping site filled with intricately-carved columns. Allow three to four hours to walk around the entire complex.

<p>The most memorable time to see Bagan is at sunrise or sunset, when the ancient peaks of this sprawling temple complex are illuminated by a soft glow – you can even take a hot air balloon ride for a truly special experience. This site, which sits on the fertile plains of the Irrawaddy River delta, is composed of more than 1,000 red-brick temples, pagodas, palaces and monasteries, which were built between 1057 and 1287 AD. Sadly in 2016, a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck the site and 185 of the buildings were damaged, with restoration work continuing today.</p>

Bagan, Myanmar

The most memorable time to see Bagan is at sunrise or sunset, when the ancient peaks of this sprawling temple complex are illuminated by a soft glow – you can even take a hot air balloon ride for a truly special experience. This site, which sits on the fertile plains of the Irrawaddy River delta, is composed of more than 1,000 red-brick temples, pagodas, palaces and monasteries, which were built between 1057 and 1287 AD. Sadly in 2016, a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck the site and 185 of the buildings were damaged, with restoration work continuing today.

<p>Although sometimes dwarfed by the popular site of Petra, Jerash is certainly worth exploring if you plan to visit Jordan. This impressive ancient city is best known for its Roman ruins, which include giant ceremonial gates, soaring temples, colonnade-filled streets, grand squares and city walls. Yet the site has actually been settled since Neolithic times, with an unbroken chain of human settlement dating back more than 6,500 years. Located less than an hour’s drive from Amman, Jerash can easily be visited by bus, taxi or on an organized tour.</p>

Jerash, Jordan

Although sometimes dwarfed by the popular site of Petra, Jerash is certainly worth exploring if you plan to visit Jordan. This impressive ancient city is best known for its Roman ruins, which include giant ceremonial gates, soaring temples, colonnade-filled streets, grand squares and city walls. Yet the site has actually been settled since Neolithic times, with an unbroken chain of human settlement dating back more than 6,500 years. Located less than an hour’s drive from Amman, Jerash can easily be visited by bus, taxi or on an organized tour.

<p>Located in western Turkey, around 50 miles (80km) south of Izmir, Ephesus is the Mediterranean’s most complete Greco-Roman city and was once its biggest trading hub. It was founded in the 10th century BC and became the first city of Roman Asia in 133 BC under Augustus Caesar. The most striking ruin here today is the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You can also see the facade of the Library of Celsus, which was destroyed during the Goth invasion in AD 262, but was rebuilt by archaeologists in the 1970s. </p>

Ephesus, Turkey

Located in western Turkey, around 50 miles south of Izmir, Ephesus is the Mediterranean’s most complete Greco-Roman city and was once its biggest trading hub. It was founded in the 10th century BC and became the first city of Roman Asia in 133 BC under Augustus Caesar. The most striking ruin here today is the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You can also see the facade of the Library of Celsus, which was destroyed during the Goth invasion in AD 262, but was rebuilt by archaeologists in the 1970s. 

<p>Dating back some 2,200 years, the collection of 8,000 life-size terracotta figures in Xi’an is among China’s most impressive – and intriguing – ancient wonders. Built to represent the troops of the country’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, the soldiers were only discovered in 1974, lying in the extensive subterranean vaults beneath the tomb of this enigmatic ruler. Each figure is slightly different and it’s even thought that their facial features were made to represent the workman who created them. It’s difficult to avoid the crowds at this popular site, but it's best to head to the museum when it opens at 8.30am and take a guided tour of the statue-filled pits. </p>

Terracotta Army, China

Dating back some 2,200 years, the collection of 8,000 life-size terracotta figures in Xi’an is among China’s most impressive – and intriguing – ancient wonders. Built to represent the troops of the country’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, the soldiers were only discovered in 1974, lying in the extensive subterranean vaults beneath the tomb of this enigmatic ruler. Each figure is slightly different and it’s even thought that their facial features were made to represent the workman who created them. It’s difficult to avoid the crowds at this popular site, but it's best to head to the museum when it opens at 8.30am and take a guided tour of the statue-filled pits. 

<p>Hindus, Buddhists and Jains have worshiped at the magnificent Ellora Caves for thousands of years. Carved from volcanic basalt stone, the sprawling site was formed somewhere between AD 550 and 750 and is home to Kailasa Temple, the largest rock-cut monument in the world. But with 34 caves in total open to the public, each containing elaborate carvings of gods, flowers and elephants, there are plenty of spots to explore. Take a guided tour from the city of Aurangabad (a 45-minute drive away).</p>

Ellora Caves, India

Hindus, Buddhists and Jains have worshiped at the magnificent Ellora Caves for thousands of years. Carved from volcanic basalt stone, the sprawling site was formed somewhere between AD 550 and 750 and is home to Kailasa Temple, the largest rock-cut monument in the world. But with 34 caves in total open to the public, each containing elaborate carvings of gods, flowers and elephants, there are plenty of spots to explore. Take a guided tour from the city of Aurangabad (a 45-minute drive away).

<p>Few could fail to be moved by the haunting ruins of Pompeii, the once-prosperous Roman city that was all but destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The site, which is located around 14 miles (23km) southeast of Naples, was buried beneath a blanket of ash for centuries, before being discovered by archaeologists in the 18th century. Today, the ancient city holds a wealth of treasures, from buildings and squares to art and artifacts, as well as the haunting skeletons of those who were killed by the eruptions. Depending how long you have, <a href="https://www.visitpompeiivesuvius.com/en/pompeii">there are two-, four- and seven-hour itineraries for visiting the ruins</a>.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/82255/pompeiis-secrets-that-are-only-just-being-uncovered?page=1"><strong>Secrets of Pompeii that are only just being revealed</strong></a></p>

Pompeii, Italy

Few could fail to be moved by the haunting ruins of Pompeii, the once-prosperous Roman city that was all but destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The site, which is located around 14 miles southeast of Naples, was buried beneath a blanket of ash for centuries, before being discovered by archaeologists in the 18th century. Today, the ancient city holds a wealth of treasures, from buildings and squares to art and artifacts, as well as the haunting skeletons of those who were killed by the eruptions. Depending how long you have, there are two-, four- and seven-hour itineraries for visiting the ruins .

Secrets of Pompeii that are only just being revealed

<p>Perched on a magnificent rock plateau in the Judean Desert, Masada is an ancient fortress dating back more than 2,000 years. It was created by King Herod of Judea in 30 BC as a palatial complex, and was eventually conquered by Jewish Zealots (a 1st-century anti-Roman political movement), becoming their last stronghold against the Romans after the fall of Jerusalem. We’d highly recommend taking a guided tour – these <a href="https://www.touristisrael.com/destination/dead-sea-and-masada-tours/">typically depart from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem</a>.</p>

Masada, Israel

Perched on a magnificent rock plateau in the Judean Desert, Masada is an ancient fortress dating back more than 2,000 years. It was created by King Herod of Judea in 30 BC as a palatial complex, and was eventually conquered by Jewish Zealots (a 1st-century anti-Roman political movement), becoming their last stronghold against the Romans after the fall of Jerusalem. We’d highly recommend taking a guided tour – these  typically depart from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem .

Situated at the beginning of the Inca Trail, Ollantaytambo is one of Peru’s best preserved Inca ruins and contains some of the oldest continuously occupied buildings in South America. The impressive city is comprised of temples, fortresses and Incan storehouses (‘qollqa’) which are built onto the Pinkuylluna mountain. Visit later in the day, once the crowds doing the Inca Trail have lessened, so you'll have more space to wander through the well-preserved cobbled streets.

Ollantaytambo, Peru

<p>Among the most spellbinding sights in Sri Lanka is Sigiriya, an ancient fortress that juts out above the verdant plains in the country’s northeast. Built by King Kashyapa I in the 5th century AD, the site served as a Buddhist monastery for almost a thousand years, before being abandoned in the 14th century. The only way to access it is through a passageway between a giant pair of rock-hewn lion’s paws, after which you’ll need to climb 1,200 steps to reach the top of the 656-foot (200m) rock column. But we promise the views from the top are worth the climb – visit as early as you can to beat the crowds. </p>

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Among the most spellbinding sights in Sri Lanka is Sigiriya, an ancient fortress that juts out above the verdant plains in the country’s northeast. Built by King Kashyapa I in the 5th century AD, the site served as a Buddhist monastery for almost a thousand years, before being abandoned in the 14th century. The only way to access it is through a passageway between a giant pair of rock-hewn lion’s paws, after which you’ll need to climb 1,200 steps to reach the top of the 656-foot rock column. But we promise the views from the top are worth the climb – visit as early as you can to beat the crowds. 

<p>Cradled within a sandstone alcove in Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park, these intricate cliff dwellings are among the best preserved in North America. They were built by ancient Puebloan people beginning in around AD 750, and inhabited for more than 700 years before being abandoned in the 13th century. Today, there are an array of structures to see, from small clifftop houses to palaces with more than 150 rooms. To get up close to the ruins, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/meve/planyourvisit/cliff_dwelling_tours.htm">book a guided 60-minute tour with a park ranger</a>, running from May to October each year. </p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/gallerylist/87937/incredible-ancient-ruins-in-the-usa-you-probably-didnt-know-existed"><strong>Be wowed by these incredible ancient ruins in the USA you didn't know existed</strong></a></p>

Mesa Verde, Colorado, USA

Cradled within a sandstone alcove in Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park, these intricate cliff dwellings are among the best preserved in North America. They were built by ancient Puebloan people beginning in around AD 750, and inhabited for more than 700 years before being abandoned in the 13th century. Today, there are an array of structures to see, from small clifftop houses to palaces with more than 150 rooms. To get up close to the ruins, book a guided 60-minute tour with a park ranger , running from May to October each year. 

Be wowed by these incredible ancient ruins in the USA you didn't know existed

<p>Synonymous with the multi-coloured hot air balloons that fill its skies at sunrise, Cappadocia is a landscape that looks like it belongs in a fairytale. This unmissable wonder, located on a volcanic plateau in eastern Anatolia, is home to an amazing landscape of wind-sculpted towers, cones and caverns. During the Byzantine and Islamic eras, churches and underground tunnel complexes were carved into the rock, which means it’s also an incredible place to learn about the human history of this stunning region.</p>

Cappadocia, Turkey

Synonymous with the multi-coloured hot air balloons that fill its skies at sunrise, Cappadocia is a landscape that looks like it belongs in a fairytale. This unmissable wonder, located on a volcanic plateau in eastern Anatolia, is home to an amazing landscape of wind-sculpted towers, cones and caverns. During the Byzantine and Islamic eras, churches and underground tunnel complexes were carved into the rock, which means it’s also an incredible place to learn about the human history of this stunning region.

<p>Among the most famous shrines in all of Egypt, the Luxor Temple is a triumph of ancient engineering. Founded in around 1400 BC, the colossal complex was primarily built by two pharaohs, Amenhotep III and Ramesses II, but Tutankhamun and Alexander the Great are said to have also added to the structure during their reigns. Two towering kings stand guard at the entrance, while the Hypostyle Hall boasts 32 impressive carved columns. You can visit independently by taking the sleeper train from Cairo, Alexandria or Aswan, or by ferry if you’re coming from the west. Be sure to book a tour with a local guide when you arrive. </p>

Luxor Temple, Egypt

Among the most famous shrines in all of Egypt, the Luxor Temple is a triumph of ancient engineering. Founded in around 1400 BC, the colossal complex was primarily built by two pharaohs, Amenhotep III and Ramesses II, but Tutankhamun and Alexander the Great are said to have also added to the structure during their reigns. Two towering kings stand guard at the entrance, while the Hypostyle Hall boasts 32 impressive carved columns. You can visit independently by taking the sleeper train from Cairo, Alexandria or Aswan, or by ferry if you’re coming from the west. Be sure to book a tour with a local guide when you arrive. 

<p>Situated a mere 31 miles (50km) from Mexico City, Teotihuacan is a brilliant day trip from the capital, Mexico City. This beguiling city was built between the 1st and 7th centuries AD and was inhabited by a pre-Hispanic civilisation, about whom we still know very little. We do know, however, that the former city was a thriving economic and political center, with some 150,000 people living here at its peak. Only a small amount of the entire site has been excavated, with points of interest including the 141-foot-tall (43m) Pyramid of the Moon and the 207-foot-tall (53m) Pyramid of the Sun.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/157264/inside-the-ancient-temples-of-the-americas?page=1"><strong>Now check out the most impressive ancient temples of the Americas</strong></a></p>

Teotihuacan, Mexico

Situated a mere 31 miles from Mexico City, Teotihuacan is a brilliant day trip from the capital, Mexico City. This beguiling city was built between the 1st and 7th centuries AD and was inhabited by a pre-Hispanic civilisation, about whom we still know very little. We do know, however, that the former city was a thriving economic and political center, with some 150,000 people living here at its peak. Only a small amount of the entire site has been excavated, with points of interest including the 141-foot-tall Pyramid of the Moon and the 207-foot-tall Pyramid of the Sun.

Now check out the most impressive ancient temples of the Americas

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Vicious fan fight adds to ugly scene at nations league final between usmnt and mexico.

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A brutal brawl broke out in the stands Sunday during the final moments of the United State’s 2-0 victory over Mexico in the CONCACAF Nations League final.

In footage circulating on social media, a fan dressed in U.S. gear was seen jumping in the stands of AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, before a separate supporter threw a punch, with others subsequently getting involved.

Debris went flying a short time later, with liquids being hurled in the direction of the brawlers, while the U.S. fan in question fell backward in the fracas.

Classless #USMNT #Mexico pic.twitter.com/B8qgDDXnxC — Michael 🚀 (@Deannas_Husband) March 25, 2024

A fan fight broke out during the CONCACAF Nations League Final between Mexico and the U.S. in March 2024.

A security staffer could be seen making their way toward the chaos in the social media clip.

The fight wasn’t the only fan controversy of the match.

Officials stopped the match twice in the wake of homophobic chants being directed at U.S. goalkeeper Matt Turner by pro-Mexico fans.

The game was initially paused in the 88th minute as homophobic chants were shouted when Turner would touch the ball, per the Dallas Morning News .

A fan fight broke out during the CONCACAF Nations League Final between Mexico and the U.S. in March 2024.

Though play resumed minutes later, the chants revved up again, prompting a second pause.

CONCACAF addressed the matter in a lengthy statement following the match.

“Concacaf condemns the discriminatory chanting in the final minutes of the Nations League Final between Mexico and the United States men’s national teams,” the statement began.

“Security staff in the stadium identified and ejected a significant number of fans, and the referee and match officials activated the FIFA protocol… It is extremely disappointing that this matter continues to be an issue at some matches.

United States goalkeeper Matt Turner celebrates after a win over Mexico in a CONCACAF Nations League final

“… We will continue to urge fans to support their teams positively and with respect for the opposition and all participants in the game.”

A similar incident transpired at last year’s showdown between the two teams in Las Vegas.

Sunday’s victory marked a third straight U.S. win in the final.

USMNT stars Tyler Adams and Gio Reyna scored the goals for the U.S., with Adams opening the scoring in the 45th minute with a screamer from well outside the box that sent the stadium into a frenzy.

Reyna added a goal in the 63rd minute, later winning the tournament’s best player honors, while Turner was named best goalkeeper for the second straight year.

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A fan fight broke out during the CONCACAF Nations League Final between Mexico and the U.S. in March 2024.

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What to do 24 hours in Valladolid, the quiet city of Mexico

2024-03-26T05:17:19.027Z

Highlights: The Mexican city of Valladolid is the perfect place to discover the essence of Yucatecan culture and gastronomy. It is also the ideal place to tour the ruins, cenotes, islands, salt flats, mangroves and jungles that abound in the Yucatan Peninsula. Many young artisans and entrepreneurs have found the place to open a small store, restaurant or accommodation in the city. The city is so manageable that you can reach any corner in a short walk.

which ruins to visit in mexico

Many young artisans and entrepreneurs have found the place to open a small store, restaurant or accommodation in the Mexican city. A peaceful town that serves as a base camp to visit cenotes and the Mayan archaeological site of Ek Balam

Called “the Sultana of the East” for the beauty of its colonial buildings, the Mexican city of Valladolid is the perfect place to discover the essence of Yucatecan culture and gastronomy.

But it is also the ideal place as a base camp and to tour the ruins, cenotes, islands, salt flats, mangroves and jungles that abound in the Yucatan Peninsula.

6.30 Early morning bird watching

It dawns in the main building of the Hacienda de Temozón

, the bright green grass full of dew reaches the stairs of the main building making the red color of its walls seem even more vivid.

We could have taken the bikes to visit the cenote that is three kilometers away, within the farm, but we opted for the ornithological tour that the hacienda offers every morning.

Ángel waits with binoculars and a book by his former master ornithologist, Barbara MacKinnon,

Go Birding in Yucatan

MacKinnon was a pioneer of

birdwatching

in the Yucatan Peninsula. She guided the first tourists who came to observe the immense variety of birds that pass through the area throughout the year and has done great work throughout Mexico as a trainer of birdwatching guides. birds in rural communities that, in turn, have found in this practice a means of life and a way to preserve their environment.

Today we are in luck, a few meters from us the Cenzontle or bird of 400 voices is perched, due to its great ability to imitate the songs of other birds.

In another nearby tree the song of the Luisi Bienteveo joins in and, a little later, the multicolored Mamoto with blue eyebrows appears.

On the walk we tour this wonderful colonial-style hacienda, inside the jungle, which was one of the most important in Yucatan.

The Fourcroydes agave plant was grown here, from which the henequen fiber came, so precious for the manufacture of ropes used in ships and exported to countless countries.

These ships that carried henequen brought products that had never seen these lands, such as the curious case of Dutch Edam cheese;

products that were quickly incorporated into their traditional cuisine.

This mixture gave rise to the famous Yucatecan cuisine.

More information

Mexico City, the navel of the world

8.00 At the market

We took the car through this great plain that is the Yucatán Peninsula.

According to locals, this plain was created when a huge meteorite hit the Earth 65 million years ago, forming a crater 180 kilometers in diameter, which led to the mass extinction of animals and plants.

We have always heard this story, but we did not know that it was here, in the nearby area of ​​Chicxulub, where the impact occurred.

Along the way, towns full of life such as Hoctún, Tahmek or Kantunil, where their colorful churches are never lacking.

We arrive at the city of Valladolid.

This small town has changed a lot in recent years and it has changed for the better.

Many young artisans and entrepreneurs have found their place here to open a small shop, restaurant or accommodation, where priority is always given to the local and gives added value to a place that only increases its cultural and gastronomic offer.

The convent of San Bernardino de Siena, in the city of Valladolid.cristina candel

If there is something that characterizes Valladolid, it is its slow pace.

The city is so manageable that you can reach any corner in a short walk.

We go directly to the market

, to the fruit and vegetable area to learn about the ingredients of Yucatecan cuisine.

The pitahaya is one of the most characteristic fruits of Yucatan, which is used in salads and juices;

the cape is a type of white potato;

chaya, called Mayan spinach;

or chayote, a type of pumpkin, one of the many grown in Yucatán and throughout the country, which can be consumed both raw and cooked.

And to continue the gastronomic experience, what better way than to eat some tacos in one of the popular taquerias in the market.

The market also has a section of local crafts that is worth visiting.

10.00 To the cenote

Just two blocks from the market is the Zaci cenote (white hawk, in Mayan)

, with warm and transparent waters, surrounded by jungle.

It is incredible that such a place exists in the middle of the city.

The Xcanché cenote, near the Mexican city of Valladolid.Cristina Candel

If you want to continue discovering cenotes, there are countless options around Valladolid: the Chukum cenote

is inside a closed cave with stalactites;

the one in Xcanché

has a zip line included;

and then there is the most photographed, the Suytun cenote

After bathing, around eleven in the morning is the time when we will find the streets of the city most alive, so it is the ideal time to get lost in its alleys, come across the church of Santa Ana

, the House of the Deer

or sit in the Francisco Cantón Rosado park

in front of the two towers of the temple of San Servacio

to enjoy the comings and goings of the locals.

The temple of San Servacio and the Francisco Cantón Rosado park, in Valladolid.cristina candel

12.30 Yucatecan food

It's time to eat and the choice is the Conato restaurant

Murals by Mexican artist Rafael Baca fill the walls and, in the background, a patio full of plants and with a set of mirrors that, when the light bounces, creates a magical and cozy space.

The menu includes any typical Mexican and Yucatecan dish that one has in mind and also offers an extensive menu of cocktails created with local liquors.

14.00 At the pyramid of Ek Balam

Visitors in the Mayan archaeological zone of Ek Balam, near the city of Valladolid.Cristina Candel

We left the city for a good reason and that is that just 30 minutes by car to the north awaits the archaeological zone of Ek Balam

, “dark-or black jaguar” or “star-jaguar” in Mayan.

This Mayan town whose history begins approximately 300 BC has one of the few pyramids that can be climbed today.

The view from above is incredible: a sea of ​​green where only the tips of some buildings of the archaeological site stand out.

It is advisable to hire a guide so as not to miss the history of the city, long before the famous Chichen Itzá, and with its 12 square kilometers of surface it was one of the most important on the peninsula.

17.00 Shopping afternoon

Back in Valladolid we headed to the most visited street in the city: Calzada de los Frailes.

This leads to the convent of San Bernardino de Siena

It is worth entering each small store that catches our attention, each one has its story.

Kutxal is a place with crafts of different styles where very good coffee is served.

In the Mazehual clothing store, created 10 years ago, Josué designs the clothes and 150 artists materialize them in his workshop on the outskirts of the city.

The store not only crafts each garment, but, as the woman who serves us proudly says, it has been recognized for the treatment and fair salary that each employee receives.

Across the street, Frailes Atelier is a family-owned antiques shop that has been open for three years and sells antiques, beeswax candles, or pieces from the artists and cooperatives they collaborate with.

Malvina Pérez, industrial designer, is today placing new acquisitions here and there and explains to us how such disparate pieces arrive at her store.

Bonito Mercado has gourmet

, local artisans: attention to

A little further up, the Coqui Coqui perfumery brand has a tea room and a small accommodation with a garden and pool at the back.

Exterior of the Kuxtal México gallery, in Valladolid.cristina candel

Although the street has been filled in recent years with small restaurants, accommodations and craft shops, it is still the scene of everyday scenes starring the neighbors.

You see them when walking when the afternoon falls or at night, when many people sit in front of their house and greet everyone who passes by while the radio plays in the background.

At the end of the street we reach the convent esplanade, where every afternoon it is filled with street vendors and families who come for a walk or who are waiting for the light and sound show to begin that illuminates its walls every night.

18.30 Dinner with a view

For dinner we have chosen another Yucatecan restaurant: the Mesón del Marqués

, from whose terrace we can see from a bird's eye view the main square of Valladolid and its illuminated church on one side and, on the other, the beautiful patio full of plants, of the colonial-type building from the 17th century where this establishment is located.

20.00 To the hacienda to sleep

We could end the day in this same place, but although we are sad to leave this welcoming city, we do not want to miss what the San José hacienda

offers us .

Arriving at night and seeing only glimpses of the huge trees, the shadows of buildings here and there makes it even more magical.

When we wake up, we see how the immense roots mix on top of what was once a wall, the small square with its yellow church, the blue buildings where the guests stay or the swimming pool in the middle of the jungle.

All of this forms a perfect harmony between the past and the present with the smell of the corn cakes that María is already cooking in the garden for breakfast.

The Hacienda San José, in Valladolid (Mexico). Cristina Candel

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10 Best Hotels In The Fastest Growing Vacation Destination In Mexico

Mexico is already a well-visited spot, but Los Cabos is one of the fastest-growing hotspots for tourists. Stay at these hotels to enjoy it.

Read update

  • Los Cabos, a gem where Pacific waters meet the Sea of Cortez, offers thrilling whale-watching, vibrant marine spectacles, and lively nightlife. Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa stands out as a luxurious retreat with family-friendly rooms, breathtaking views, and a rich tapestry of culinary delights.
  • Top-tier accommodations in Los Cabos provide beachfront vistas, outdoor pools, and rejuvenating spa retreats, ensuring a luxurious stay. At Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos, guests can enjoy panoramic ocean views, unforgettable sunsets, and a myriad of culinary escapades.
  • Each resort in Los Cabos offers a blend of luxury and entertainment, from opulent suites with ocean views to diverse culinary experiences and rejuvenating spas. Viceroy Los Cabos, situated on the mesmerizing Sea of Cortéz, envelops visitors in a tranquil ambiance with cinematic views at every turn.

Los Cabos, often affectionately dubbed "Cabo," is a shimmering jewel where the sapphire Pacific waters meet the tranquil Sea of Cortez. The best all-inclusive resorts in Los Cabos are amazing places to visit for any tourist. Los Cabos itself is a landscape where dramatic desert terrain mingles with the azure ocean, creating an idyllic backdrop for travelers. But there's more to this destination than meets the eye. For adventure seekers, the allure of thrilling whale-watching experiences, captivating snorkeling opportunities revealing vibrant marine spectacles, and a nightlife that dances with vibrancy beckons.

Luxury travelers will be thrilled to discover that amid this natural beauty lies a selection of top-tier accommodations in Los Cabos. Each hotel stands out, boasting beachfront vistas or within proximity to the sandy shores, coupled with expansive outdoor pools and rejuvenating spa retreats. This guide highlights the epitome of luxury in Cabo's hospitality scene, ensuring readers a sojourn worth reminiscing about.

UPDATE: 2024/03/20 14:12 EST BY CORES GRACE MALAAY

Each resort on this list has been updated with more comprehensive details on amenities, location, photos, and ratings to provide travelers with more information about these resorts for an easier staycation in Los Cabos.

This article chooses accommodation recommendations based on several criteria, including their strategic locations near prominent attractions and a minimum user rating of 7.0. Each highlighted lodging meets the standard of amenities and accommodations anticipated by seasoned travelers.

Explore Mexico: 10 Best Day Trips From Your Resort In Cancun

10 hard rock hotel los cabos, set on the southern tip of baja peninsula with the grandeur of the pacific ocean.

At this illustrious four-star establishment, where the pulsating rhythm of music meets the tranquil embrace of the Cabo shores, the Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos strikes a harmonious chord of luxury and entertainment. Every corner is a testament to the legacy of legends, offering guests an immersive journey through rock history. Opulent suites provide panoramic ocean views, setting the stage for unforgettable sunsets. A myriad of culinary escapades await, from authentic local dishes to international gourmet delights. The hotel's expansive pools and rejuvenating spa promise relaxation, while music-centric experiences keep the spirit alive. At Hard Rock Los Cabos, the grandeur of rock and the allure of Cabo come together in a perfect symphony. It's one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Los Cabos !

9 Paradisus Los Cabos

An adults-only resort on a private beach sporting traditional mission-style architecture.

Situated beside a tranquil beach, Paradisus Los Cabos offers captivating views of the Sea of Cortez amid verdant tropical gardens. Exemplifying luxurious architecture and unparalleled service, Paradisus Los Cabos ensures a sublime stay. Guests can relish direct pool access suites, delight in The Reserve's personal Concierge services, and indulge in various culinary options. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, its luxurious standard is evident. The YHI Spa provides relaxation, while immersive activities showcase authentic Mexican culture. Embracing diversity, Paradisus stands as a proud Queer Destination Committed Hotel.

Los Cabos has a thriving art scene. Explore the art galleries and studios in San José del Cabo's Art District, where visitors can view and purchase works by local artists. Many galleries also host regular art walks, allowing guests to meet artists and learn about their creative process.

8 Pueblo Bonito Rosé Resort & Spa

A greco-roman-inspired resort on el médano beach.

Emerging from the visionary insights of founders Ernesto Coppel and Mark Kronemeyer, Pueblo Bonito Rosé Resort & Spa stands as a five-star beacon of luxury in Los Cabos. Perfectly poised on a pristine stretch of shoreline, this resort elegantly blends contemporary luxuries with a touch of old-world charm. Meticulously designed suites, outstanding dining experiences, and an immersive spa journey await guests. But it's not just about indulgence — the resort's commitment to sustainability, with initiatives like marine turtle protection, speaks to a larger ethos. At Pueblo Bonito Rosé, guests experience luxury while honoring Mexico's treasured landscapes.

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Northern Baja In Mexico Next

7 breathless cabo san lucas resort & spa, an adults-only resort set on medano beach featuring contemporary suites.

Nestled on the coveted Medano Beach with an unmatched view of the marina, the four-star Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort & Spa offers adults an exquisite blend of luxury and vibrant energy. Its 169 modern suites provide scenic marina vistas from furnished terraces or balconies. With twelve gourmet dining venues, guests can savor diverse culinary delights while the award-winning rooftop lounge hosts unforgettable sunset soirées and high-energy DJ sessions.

Embodying the "Live Big. Breathe Deep." ethos, the resort seamlessly marries culture, fashion, and music events with serene relaxation spots. Watersports, tailored fitness classes, and the spa offer varied avenues for enjoyment. Breathless isn't just a resort; it's a luxurious lifestyle experience, ensuring indulgence is always within reach.

6 Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas

Located on the white sand beach of el médano beach and an awardee of travelife sustainability system.

Los Cabos is considered by some as one of the best digital nomad spots in Mexico , but visiting the city first allows a better plan to stay for a longer period. Overlooking a pristine white sand beach, Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas offers guests a luxurious, all-inclusive 24-hour experience. Its 600+ rooms boast modern amenities, free Wi-Fi, and breathtaking views from balconies or terraces. Dive into crystalline waters or unwind in the two pools with swim-up bars. The Renova Spa promises relaxation, while RIULand delights younger guests. Gastronomic adventures range from authentic Mexican to Japanese, complemented by the Capuchino bakery. Set in beautiful Los Cabos, excursions to San Jose del Cabo or the UNESCO-listed Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park await.

5 Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa

A beachfront resort featuring spanish colonial architecture on the baja california peninsula.

Some consider Los Cabos to be among the most luxurious destinations in Mexico , and it's no wonder why. Nestled in the heart of Los Cabos, Grand Fiesta Americana delivers a blend of inspiration and luxury. From family-friendly rooms with breathtaking views to a rich tapestry of culinary delights – Mexican, Italian, and Asian cuisines await. Perfect a golf swing, rejuvenate at the spa, or explore iconic attractions like the Arch of Cabo San Lucas. And for those traveling with furry friends, a special Dog-Friendly kit ensures their comfort. In this resort, the allure of Los Cabos comes alive with unmatched elegance.

4 Villa La Estancia Beach Resort & Spa, Riviera Nayarit

An aaa four-diamond resort located on bahia de banderas.

In the elite environs of Nuevo Vallarta, Villa La Estancia Beach Resort & Spa shines as an AAA Four-star retreat, blending luxury with impeccable service. Unlike any other in Riviera Nayarit, it promises an elevated vacation experience underscored by its scenic locale, unmatched amenities, and heartfelt hospitality. Positioned on Banderas Bay's shores, the resort offers both the serenity of an exclusive neighborhood and the vibrancy of Puerto Vallarta's attractions. Beyond its Hacienda-style grandeur lies an array of facilities: the rejuvenating Tatewari Spa, gourmet dining options, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a serene beachfront Jacuzzi. It’s not just a stay but a luxury journey set amid Riviera Nayarit’s natural beauty.

3 Nobu Hotel Los Cabos

Located on the southernmost tip of baja california along el suspiro beach.

Nestled in the magical resort region of Los Cabos, the Nobu Hotel Los Cabos emerges as the brand's inaugural footprint in Mexico. It's not just a hotel but an embodiment of architectural grace married with luxurious ease. Guests are greeted by handpicked details and a commitment to both relaxation and wellness. Here, a visitor isn’t just staying; they're indulging in a sanctuary where the Pacific's calm meets the allure of laid-back luxury. Nobu Hotel Los Cabos offers a unique blend of style, entertainment, and an unparalleled retreat into sensuality and opulence. In Nobu, every moment whispers the promise of an unmatched Mexican sojourn.

2 Viceroy Los Cabos

Nestled on the sea of cortez, featuring striking contemporary architecture.

Los Cabos is a good place to visit as an American since $100 will get you a long way in Mexico . Situated on the mesmerizing Sea of Cortéz in Baja, the five-star Viceroy Los Cabos stands out as an architectural gem, thanks to the visionary brilliance of Miguel Angel Aragonés. This hotel transcends traditional design, enveloping visitors in a tranquil ambiance with cinematic views at every turn. Sunlight bathes each guestroom through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows leading to private patios or balconies, creating intimate spaces that rejuvenate the spirit. Beyond its walls, the resort boasts six diverse dining venues, a holistic-focused spa, and an inviting rooftop bar. While the allure of San José del Cabo's historic streets beckons nearby, Viceroy Los Cabos itself offers a transformative experience where architecture meets the edge of the horizon.

Don't miss the chance to try local seafood tacos, a Baja California specialty. Visit local taco stands or small, family-owned eateries to enjoy fish or shrimp tacos prepared with fresh catch of the day. Pair them with handmade tortillas and a squeeze of lime for an authentic taste of the region.

10 Mexico Landmarks That Are More Than Ancient Ruins And Beaches

1 solaz, a luxury collection resort, los cabos, nestled in a prime location with unobstructed views of the sea of cortez.

In the past, Los Cabos used to be one of the less-touristy spots in Mexico , but that's quickly changing. Nestled where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, the five-star Solaz effortlessly marries the enchanting beauty of Baja’s desert with refined luxury. Coveted for its prime beachfront location, guests can seamlessly transition between the bustling downtown San Jose del Cabo and the tranquil Marina Cabo San Lucas. Rooms with marble floors and custom furnishings elegantly blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. Many offer private patios, outdoor showers, plunge pools, and mesmerizing views of the Sea of Cortez. While the resort’s diverse dining entices, the spa promises unparalleled relaxation amid this captivating Baja oasis.

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  1. 20 Best Ruins in Mexico You Must Visit

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  2. 20 Best Ruins in Mexico You Must Visit

    which ruins to visit in mexico

  3. Best Ruins in Mexico

    which ruins to visit in mexico

  4. 20 Best Ruins in Mexico You Must Visit

    which ruins to visit in mexico

  5. 20 Best Ruins in Mexico You Must Visit

    which ruins to visit in mexico

  6. Top 7 Mayan Ruins To Visit in Mexico

    which ruins to visit in mexico

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COMMENTS

  1. 20 Best Ruins in Mexico You Must Visit

    10. Coba. These renowned ruins are famous because Coba is the site of the largest network of stone causeways (also called sacbes or white roads) in the ancient Mayan world. Coba's Ancient Pyramid is open to the public if you want to climb the 130 steps.

  2. 21 BEST Mayan Ruins in Mexico and How to Visit Them

    Where to visit from: Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, Valladolid, Merida. Hours: 8 am - 5 pm every day. Chichen Itza is probably the most famous of all the Mayan ruins in Mexico, and it's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's an ancient city that was once one of the most powerful in the Mayan Empire.

  3. Top 15 Mayan Ruins & Archeological Sites To Visit In Mexico

    1. Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins. The Famous Ruins of Chichen Itza. One of the greatest Maya cities in Mexico was Chichen Itza - a sacred city which covers around six square miles and was once home to hundreds of buildings which were built in both the classic Maya period and the later Maya-Toltec period.

  4. Best Mexico Ruins: Ultimate Guide to 20+ Ruins in Mexico

    Best Ruins in Yucatan State. Mexico's ruins in Yucatan state are some of the most famous, and several have UNESCO status. Legendary Chichen Itza is here with its iconic pyramid and ball court. Other Maya sites include Ek Balam, noted for its well-preserved sculptures, and Uxmal, with its intricate carved facades.

  5. 13 Mayan Ruins in Mexico You Have to Visit (2024 Guide)

    1. Chichen Itza. A must-see Mayan ruin in Mexico is Chichen Itza. Located not too far from Cancun, Chichen Itza is easily the most well-known Mexican Mayan ruins in the world. Chichen Itza is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding more to the appeal of why its a must-visit if traveling around the Yucatan Peninsula.

  6. 21 BEST Mayan Ruins in Mexico: Your Local's 2024 Guide

    Best Mayan ruins in Mexico: Chacchoben. Chacchoben (pronounced cha-cho-ben) is an ancient Mayan city in the southern part of the state of Quintana Roo. Its name means ¨the place of red corn¨. The city is 51km away from the gorgeous lake town of Bacalar and is a great place to stop while in the area visiting Bacalar and Mahahual.

  7. 13 Best Mayan Ruins in Mexico

    Read More: From Cancun to Chichen Itza: Best Ways to Get There. 2. Tulum. Mayan ruins of Tulum. Almost as recognizable as Chichen Itza are the coastal ruins of Tulum. The image of its largest structure, El Castillo, is iconic of the destination: perched on a cliff overlooking the magnetic turquoise Caribbean Sea.

  8. 15 Best Mayan Ruins In Mexico That You Shouldn't Miss

    Here are some of the best Mayan sites that you won't want to miss. 1. Chichen Itza, Yucatan. Chichen Itza. Chichen Itza, one of Mexico's most important and iconic historical sites, is only about 120 miles from Cancun. Mexico's most famous landmark, Chichen Itza has been included in the New Seven Wonders of the World.

  9. 25 Fascinating Ruins in Mexico to Visit (Mayan, Aztec + Beyond!)

    The easiest, safest, and best way to visit Muyil Ruins is on a boat tour. The quicker road to get there takes about 45 minutes, but you need a 4X4. The longer route can be done by car but takes three hours from downtown Tulum. The boat tours to Muyil are great because you get to go out on the waters of Sian Ka'an, and also visit the ruins.

  10. Exploring Mexico's ancient ruins

    Tulum is a prime destination for large tour groups. To best enjoy the ruins without feeling like part of the herd, you should visit them early in the morning, another benefit of the sunrise tour. Calakmul. Calakmul is a magnificent experience, made even better by its history as a leading city from around AD 250. Many buildings survive, evoking ...

  11. 13 Outstanding Mayan Ruins In Mexico Not To Miss

    4. Tulum Mayan Ruins. The magnificent Tulum Ruins is one of the most superb and breathtaking Mayan sites you can visit in Mexico. Unlike many of Central America's other ancient Mayan ruins, Tulum is special in that its archaeological zone occupies a strategic position right on the coast.

  12. The 10 Best Aztec and Mayan Ruins in Mexico

    9. Ek Balam. Ek Balam; Just Booked a Trip/Flickr. Yet another set of ruins found in the Yucatan Peninsula, Ek Balam, meaning "black jaguar" in Mayan, is a tourist-favorite and thought to possibly be the seat of the Tlalol kingdom. This ancient Mayan city peaked around the late Classical period between 600 to 850 A.D.

  13. 19 Fascinating Ruins in Mexico You Need to Visit

    Palenque is a Mayan ruin in the Mexican state of Chiapas. In 1987 this archaeological site was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status for its incredible art and architecture, testimony to Maya mythology, and considerable influence throughout the Maya empire. It is one of the most important Mayan ruins of Mexico.

  14. 13 Must-Visit Mayan Ruins in Mexico

    Palenque, Chiapas. The Palenque ruins are some of the most famous in Mexico. This may be due, in part, to the fact that they are among the most recently discovered Mayan ruins - they were only first excavated in the 1940s. The site is located in a lush jungle setting, and is thought to have been the capital of a Mayan kingdom from around 600 ...

  15. 8 Best Ruins You Must Visit in Mexico

    Here's the list of the must-visit ruins in Mexico you should without a doubt put on your Mexico travel itinerary. COBA RUINS. Coba Ruins are one of the most visited Mayan ruins on the Yucatan Peninsula for three reasons. First, the location of the site is perfect because Coba is only a short drive from both resort town Tulumand the colonial ...

  16. 6 Best Mayan Ruins in Mexico Travel Guide

    6 Best Mayan Ruins in Mexico To Visit. 1. Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins. Considered one of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico, the archeological site of Chichen Itza is filled with history. Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, these Mayan ruins are just a short drive from Playa del Carmen and Valladolid.

  17. 12 Most Fascinating Mayan Ruins in Mexico (+Map)

    7. Coba [SEE MAP] Deep in the jungles of Quintana Roo is Coba, one of the largest and most fascinating Mayan ruins in Mexico. At its peak, Coba was home to more than 50,000 people, which means that it was incredibly significant to Mayan culture and society.

  18. Best ruins in Mexico

    Cobá - Best Yucatan Maya ruins in Mexico. The jungle enviroment makes Cobá a beautiful place to visit. Cobá consists of 80 km2, but only a small part has been excavated. You can admire the 42-meter high pyramid, Nohoch-Mu, or Castillo, the second largest pyramid in Yucatan (the largest one is located in Chichén Itzá).

  19. 18 Ancient Mexico Ruins You Must Visit

    4) Teotihuacan. Teotihuacan is a Mexico uin with a huge pyramid complex near Mexico City. Source. With its origins shrouded in mystery, this Mexican ruin is home to some of the largest pyramids in all of Mexico. The ancient site boasts some of the best preserved and most visited ruins in the entire country.

  20. 7 Of The Best Ruins In Mexico

    The ruins feature two towering pyramids, known as the Temple of the Moon and the Temple of the Sun. Walk along the Avenue of the Dead and gaze up at them, before taking to the stairs for a short but steep climb to the top, where it feels like all of Mexico stands before you. VISIT TEOTIHUACÁN ON OUR 15-DAY BEST OF MEXICO SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE. 3.

  21. 7 Ancient Ruins You Must Visit in Mexico

    2. Palenque Ruins - An Ancient Site Shrouded in Dense Jungle. 3. The Tulum Ruins - Mexico's Best Preserved Coastal Ancient Site. 4. Monte Alban Pyramid - One of Mexico's Most Dramatic Ancient Sites. 5. Uxmal - One of the Most Important Mayan Sites in Mexico. 6.

  22. 14 Tulum Mayan Ruins to visit: the best Mayan Ruins of Tulum

    Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid (All-inclusive) 🕒 12 hours. 💲 from $59 USD. This all-inclusive tour in Tulum Mayan Ruins allows you to explore some of the region's most famous spots in just one day. You will visit the Ancient Tulum Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, Cenote Saamal, and the colonial town of Valladolid.

  23. Best Places to Visit in Mexico for 2023-2024

    Punta Mita. #15 in Best Places to Visit in Mexico for 2023-2024. This secluded vacation spot is known for its luxurious lodging options (from vacation rentals to high-end hotels like the St. Regis ...

  24. When Is The Best Time To Visit Mexico?

    The Best Time To Visit Mexico's Ruins. If you want to avoid crowds and traffic, visiting Mexico's ruins just before or after peak travel season is ideal. Opt for the shoulder months in the dry ...

  25. 30 Of The Most Fascinating Ancient Ruins On Earth

    Colosseum, Italy. Arguably the most famous Roman ruin in the world, the Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built. It took around eight years to construct and it was intended as a gift to ...

  26. Vicious fan fight adds to ugly scene at Nations League final

    A brutal brawl broke out in the stands Sunday during the final moments of the United State's 2-0 victory over Mexico in the CONCACAF Nations League final. In footage circulating on social media ...

  27. What to do 24 hours in Valladolid, the quiet city of Mexico

    The Mexican city of Valladolid is the perfect place to discover the essence of Yucatecan culture and gastronomy. It is also the ideal place to tour the ruins, cenotes, islands, salt flats, mangroves and jungles that abound in the Yucatan Peninsula. Many young artisans and entrepreneurs have found the place to open a small store, restaurant or accommodation in the city. The city is so ...

  28. 10 Best Hotels In The Fastest Growing Vacation Destination In Mexico

    Accommodation: Solaz, A Luxury Collection Resort, Los Cabos. Amenities: Swimming Pools, Spa & Wellness Center, Restaurants. Rating: 9.7. Los Cabos is the hottest new spot in Mexico for tourists, and these ten hotels offer great options for visitors.