Mexico 7 Day Itinerary | The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Mexico in 1 Week

With ancient ruins, stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and incredible cuisine, Mexico has so much to offer visitors. Trying to the best of Mexico in just 7 days may seem daunting, but it’s possible to achieve this if you plan wisely, and follow the different recommendations and 7 Day Mexico Travel Itinerary, shared below. .

This 1 week Mexico itinerary will help you maximize your vacation and see some of the best attractions this diverse country has to offer. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore ancient cultures, or experience Mexico’s famous nightlife, this guide has you covered.

PS – Before you head to Mexico and discover the beauty of the Top Mexico Sights and Attractions, during your 7 Day Mexico Travel Itinerary, as  listed below, check out these 20+ Travel Hacks and Resources, that will elevate your Travel experience to a different level all together.

7 Day Ultimate Mexico Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Mexico City

The vibrant streets of Mexico City | Photo by Pyro Jenka on Unsplash

Kick off your trip in Mexico’s bustling capital, Mexico City. Fly into Benito Juárez International Airport and take an Uber or taxi to your hotel downtown, or book your airport transfer here.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Historical Center (Centro Histórico), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander the massive main plaza,  Zócalo, view the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral, and admire the ruins of the Templo Mayor, an Aztec temple discovered beneath the city streets.

Grab dinner at one of the city’s many taco joints before heading to an evening mariachi performance. Mariachi bands can often be found in Garibaldi Plaza, where you can soak in Mexico’s iconic music over a margarita or two.

Here are some interesting facts about Mexico – it boasts incredible biodiversity, is the most populous Spanish-speaking country in the world, and is known for mariachi music, tacos, and tequila!

Top Rated Attractions in Mexico City

• Zócalo
• Metropolitan Cathedral
• Templo Mayor
• National Museum of Anthropology
• Chapultepec Park
• Frida Kahlo Museum

Where to Stay in Mexico City

Mexico City, which is one of the Best Cities in Latin America, has accommodation options to fit any budget. For your first night, book a hotel near the Historic Center to be close to the action.

Mid-range options like Hampton Inn & Suites Mexico City – Centro Histórico and budget picks like Hostel Home offer excellent value.

Day 2: Teotihuacan & More Mexico City

Teotihuacan Archaeological Site | Photo by Alejandro Morelos on Unsplash

Rise early and take a day trip to the impressive Teotihuacan archaeological site, located about an hour outside Mexico City. It is one of the Top Iconic Attractions of Mexico. Walk the Avenue of the Dead and climb to the top of the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon for breathtaking views.

After exploring the ruins, head back to Mexico City. In the afternoon, visit Chapultepec Park and Castle and browse the world-class artefacts at the National Museum of Anthropology.

In the evening, indulge in delicious street food at a local mercado before hitting the trendy bars and clubs in the Condesa or Roma neighbourhoods. Try mezcal cocktails at a hip mezcaleria like Licorería Limantour.

Top Attractions Outside Mexico City

• Pyramids of Teotihuacan
• Puebla
• Valle de Bravo
• Cuernavaca

PS – If you have time on your hand, you can modify this 7 Day Mexico Itinerary, by adding another day or two in Mexico City, and covering other top sights in and around Mexico City, as recommended in this 3 Day Mexico City Itinerary.

Day 3: Travel to Chichen Itza & Valladolid

Chichen Itza – One of the Most Popular Sight and Attraction of Mexico

Take an early morning 1 hour flight from Mexico City to Cancun. Pick up your rental car and drive 2.5 hours west to the magnificent ancient city of Chichen Itza – One of the Most Popular Sight and Attraction of Mexico. Chichen Itza, is one of those Places that you should Visit Once in a Lifetime, and without visiting Chichen Itza, your Mexico Trip will be incomplete.

You’ll have ample time to explore El Castillo pyramid, the ball court, observatory, and other structures.

After, drive 30 minutes west to the laidback colonial town of Valladolid to spend the night.

Where to Stay in Valladolid

• Casa Valladolid Boutique Hotel – mid-range bed & breakfast with pool
• TecnoHotel Valladolid – budget hotel in downtown
• Casa San Roque Boutique Hotel – splurge-worthy luxury option

PS – Useful Travel Resources to use while heading to Mexico to experience the Best of Mexico with this 7 Day Mexico Trip Guide

• Book your Rental Car in Mexico on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com
• Book the best  Mexico Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator
• Book your Accommodation in Mexico on Agoda or Booking.com
• Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
• Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to Mexico, to enjoy premium Airport Lounge access.
• Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free vacation in Mexico.

Day 4: Cenotes & Tulum

The Beauty of Cenotes | Photo by The Free Birds on Unsplash

Wake up early and drive 25 minutes to Ik Kil or other famous cenotes near Valladolid for a refreshing swim. After, make the 1.5 hour drive east to Tulum. The best time to experience the true beauty of these cenotes in Tulum is when there are no crowds. October to April is the best time to visit Tulum, however be wary of the crowds and costs, as its also the peak tourist season of Tulum. So its better, to book all your accommodations and Tulum tours and excursions well in advance, and try to visit the cenotes in the mornings, before the crowds start pouring in.

Check into your beachside cabana and spend the afternoon relaxing on the sand. Wander Tulum’s shops and restaurants before grabbing dinner.

Where to Stay in Tulum

• Le Selva Appartments
• Hotel Diamante K – mid-range beachfront hotel
• Nest Tulum – upscale oceanview villa resort

Day 5: Travel to Oaxaca

Colourful souvenirs in Oaxaca, Mexico | Photo by analuisa gamboa on Unsplash

After a relaxing beach day in Tulum, take an early morning flight to Oaxaca City. You’ll have the afternoon and evening to explore Oaxaca’s charming colonial center, browse colorful markets, and sample its renowned cuisine.

Walk down Calle Alcalá to the Zócalo and browse the artisan goods at the Benito Juárez Market.

For dinner, try Oaxacan specialties like tlayudas, moles, chapulines (fried grasshoppers) and mezcal cocktails. Check into your hotel in Oaxaca and rest up for the days ahead.

Top Things to Do in Oaxaca

• Walk Calle Alcalá and explore markets
• Try Oaxacan food like mole, tlayudas, and chapulines
• Drink mezcal cocktails
• Explore churches like Santo Domingo
• See cultural sites like the Rufino Tamayo Museum

Day 6: Monte Albán

Zapotec Ruins of Monte Alban | Photo by Matthew Essman on Unsplash

Dedicate this day to exploring the impressive Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán just outside Oaxaca City. Walk the expansive site and climb to the top of the pyramids for magnificent valley views.

After, head back downtown to visit sites like the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca and the Mercado 20 de Noviembre.

End your day sampling more top Oaxacan restaurants for dinner and drinks.

Day 7: Travel to Puerto Escondido

The beach town of Puerto Escondido | Photo by Lorraine Mojica on Unsplash

Catch a morning 1-hour flight or 6-hour bus ride from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido. Check into your beach accommodation and head straight to the sand.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on Playa Zicatela, taking a surf lesson, or browsing the shops and small restaurants in the laidback town center.

Watch the sunset while sipping a Pacifico beer beachside before enjoying a final fresh seafood dinner at a restaurant like El Cafecito.

Day 8: Depart from Mexico City

The next morning, make the short flight back to Mexico City in time for your international departure.

Other Can’t-Miss Destinations in Mexico

While this 7 Day Mexico itinerary covers some of the best attractions in Mexico, there is so much more to see throughout Mexico. If you have extra time, also consider visiting:

• Isla Holbox
• Tulum & the Riviera Maya
• Chichen Itza
• Mexico City Day Trips like Puebla, Valle de Bravo, or Cuernavaca

How’s This 7 Day Mexico Itinerary Sound?

Trying to see Mexico in just one week is ambitious, but this action-packed Mexico itinerary is designed to help you maximize your time.

You’ll get a taste of Mexico’s best offerings: culture, beaches, food, and nightlife. This route takes you from energetic Mexico City to charming Oaxaca and sunny Puerto Escondido, with a nice mix of must-see attractions of Mexico and relaxation.

With early mornings and late nights, you may feel tired by Day 7. But you’ll head home with an excellent introduction to Mexico’s diversity. This 7 Day Mexico Travel Itinerary can serve as a taster before you plan a longer trip focused on certain regions.

Have another destination in mind? You can easily adapt this template to craft the perfect week-long itinerary for many places, whether that’s Italy, Japan, Costa Rica or elsewhere.

Wherever you go, advanced planning lets you make the most of your limited time. Follow this strategy to ensure your next quick getaway feels like you were gone for much more than just 1 week!

Travel Tips for your 7 Day Mexico Itinerary 

• Book flights early – With all the internal flights, book tickets 2-3 months in advance for the best fares.
• Pack light – You’ll be hopping around a lot, so pack a carry-on-size bag. Only bring essentials like swimwear, sun protection, walking shoes, lightweight clothes, and prescription medications. Refer to this what to pack for Mexico guide for more specific recommendations.
• Arrange airport transportation – Pre-book shuttles or taxis to/from airports to make transfers smooth.
• Charge devices – Many long travel days, so bring a portable charger and charge devices each night.
• Withdraw pesos – Stop at ATMs when you arrive to take out cash for the week. Many vendors only accept cash.
• Learn Spanish phrases – Locals will appreciate you making an effort to speak Spanish when possible.
• Pack medications – Bring any prescription meds plus OTC pain/upset stomach relievers in case you don’t feel well.
• Wear sun protection – The Mexican sun is strong. Wear sunscreen, hats, and cover-up clothes when outdoors.
• Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of bottled water and hydrating drinks throughout your travels.
• Respect cultural sites – When visiting ruins and churches, dress modestly and behave respectfully.
• Have small bills – For markets, street food, and tipping, have plenty of 10, 20, and 50 peso notes on hand.
• Purchase travel insurance – In case of any last-minute changes, travel insurance provides helpful coverage.

Mexico 7-Day Itinerary FAQs

What are the must-see places in Mexico in 7 days?

The top destinations to see in a week in Mexico are Mexico City, Oaxaca, and Puerto Escondido, with options to also add cultural sites like Teotihuacan or beach spots like Tulum.

How many days do you need in Mexico City?

2 full days is ideal for seeing the main attractions in Mexico City like the Zocalo, Templo Mayor, museums, and experiencing the food and nightlife.

Is it better to fly or drive in Mexico for a 7 day trip?

With limited time, it’s best to maximize destinations by flying between major hubs like Mexico City, Oaxaca City, and beach towns.

What is the best route to see Mexico in 7 days?

A great 7 day Mexico route is Mexico City – Oaxaca City – Puerto Escondido – Mexico City. This covers top highlights from cuisine to culture to beaches.

What is the cheapest way to travel Mexico for a week?

To save money in 7 days in Mexico, take buses between destinations, stay in budget hotels or hostels, and eat street food and at mercados.

How should I prepare for a 7 day trip to Mexico?

To prepare, book inter-Mexico flights, arrange airport transfers, research top attractions, pack light, and brush up on Spanish phrases.

How much does it cost to travel Mexico for 7 days?

Expect to budget around $100 USD per day minimum, not counting flights. With mid-range choices, plan for $700-$1,000 total for 7 days in Mexico.

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