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I assume that if you’re trying to find the most secure cities in Mexico to go to, chances are high that you just already understand how superb this nation is, and the way it’s pictured as a not-so-safe journey vacation spot.
The reality is that Mexico is among the world’s most charming locations. From its historic landmarks and culturally wealthy communities to its world-famous seashores, it’s no surprise that thousands and thousands of vacationers flock to this mesmerizing nation annually.
That being stated, Mexico doesn’t all the time have the perfect popularity in terms of security and an typically unfair, sensationalized portrayal within the media could make lots of people nervous about their go to.
The truth is that the security state of affairs in Mexico can differ considerably from state to state, metropolis to metropolis, and the assorted barrios inside every metropolis.
Most elements of Mexico the place harmful or violent issues occur are usually not locations the place you might be prone to end up as a vacationer anyway. In case you observe fundamental security precautions, you’ll keep protected and relaxed whereas experiencing this glorious nation.
Nonetheless, if you’re apprehensive, among the most secure cities in Mexico are summarized beneath. They’re nice locations for first-time guests and embrace beachside hotspots, cultural gems, and charming cities and cities that ought to be on any traveler’s bucket listing.
Earlier than we transfer on to the listing, one issues you might want to know:
This text has been written by a Journey Author based mostly in Mexico, so relaxation assured, you might be in good palms right here.
14 Most secure Cities to Go to in Mexico in 2024
Mérida
The Yucatan capital of Merida shouldn’t be solely the most secure metropolis in Mexico however one of many most secure cities in North America on the entire. Based by the Spanish Conquistador Francisco de Montejo in 1542, the gorgeous colonial metropolis makes a fantastic base for a wider exploration of the Yucatan area.
Merida’s historic middle is full of pastel-colored colonial homes painted in each shade of the rainbow, cobblestone streets, conventional mercados, and ornate colonial mansions and haciendas. Plaza Grande, flanked by the spectacular sixteenth century San Ildefonso Catedral de Mérida marks the middle of city and is the situation of a stay Pok-ta-Pok Mayan ball sport reenactment each Saturday night time.
Paseo de Montejo is the principle promenade that takes you thru the middle of city. On Sundays, the ambiance is especially particular because the street is closed off to automobiles so that folks can bicycle, jog and rollerblade down it.
Most of the outdated mansions right here have been transformed into eating places, aperitivo bars and idea shops and are a fantastic place for choosing up considerate presents and souvenirs. The Merida restaurant scene is flourishing, and new locations are opening up right here just about each month.
Yucatecan delicacies is world well-known for its flavorful stews, tropical aromas, and hearty components. Don’t miss dishes similar to Cochinita Pibil or Sopa de Lima.
Iconic eating places similar to Pancho Maiz and Sope Huach or pleasant cafes similar to Postres tradicionales “Dulce Ch’uhuk” are effectively value a go to.
If town’s security, type folks, and meals weren’t sufficient, Mérida can also be the house base for experiencing Mayan tradition. Don’t miss a go to to the Mayan World Museum of Mérida to study all about this sturdy indigenous tradition.
Afterwards, head out into the countryside to go to ruins similar to Uxmal or the sacred and exquisite cenotes.
Santiago de Queretaro
In case you love historic locations and exquisite structure, then Santiago de Queretaro is a should. This metropolis within the central Mexican state of Querétaro is really distinctive. It’s additionally very protected, with a criminal offense price that’s one of many lowest in Mexico.
Locals affectionately confer with the state capital as “Quereta-rock” because of its ever-growing rock music scene and should you take pleasure in stay music, you’ll find loads of venues internet hosting stay musicians each weekend.
Queretaro Previous City is UNESCO protected and has been designated as such since 1996. As you meander by means of its cobblestone streets and shaded plazas, you’ll be surrounded by historic locations such because the Museo Casa de la Zacatecana or the Templo de San Francisco.
The Jardin Zenea is actually the principle central plaza of Queretaro and it acts as a preferred rendezvous level amongst locals who come right here to bounce to folks, cumbia, and classical music each Sunday. (Anybody is welcome to hitch in!)
Because the solar goes down, varied distributors arrange their tianguis to promote regional delicacies and candy treats from completely different elements of Mexico. Queretaro is a scholar metropolis and it has a really younger, enjoyable vibe.
Even on random weeknights, you will note loads of folks strolling across the metropolis middle within the night and it by no means feels sketchy or unsafe. Town can also be stuffed with enjoyable museums. In case you love artwork and colonial structure, don’t miss the Museo de Arte Sacro or the Mucal Museum Calendar.
After a protracted day of exploring town, you’ll need to pattern a few of Santiago de Queretaro’s well-known meals.
For the perfect of the perfect, try Maria y su Bici or Maruca. Order a glass of the state’s well-known wine to scrub all of it down with should you don’t have the chance to take an tour out to a neighborhood vineyard.
San Miguel de Allende
One other Central Mexican gem, San Miguel de Allende, has develop into certainly one of Mexico’s most beloved small cities. It has been voted the “finest metropolis on this planet” by Condé Nast Traveler on three separate events and there are many causes as to why.
First, town is among the most secure in Mexico, with a low crime price and pleasant folks. There’s a massive neighborhood of expats right here (arguably one of many largest in Mexico) and English could be very extensively spoken.
Nestled within the Bajio mountains of Guanajuato state, San Miguel de Allende is known for its colonial structure and metropolis structure. Its hilly streets supply spectacular views and sweeping vistas of the valleys beneath at just about each flip.
The picturesque colonial buildings listed here are a photographer’s dream, and plenty of home upscale eating places, espresso retailers, and impartial artwork galleries that appeal to a well-heeled crowd. Many impartial Mexican style designers even have their flagship shops right here, which is nice if you wish to bask in some retail remedy and spend money on some one-of-a-kind items that no person else can have.
Lovely gardens, parks, and centuries outdated church buildings cowl town. Don’t miss gorgeous monuments just like the Torre del Reloj or the dazzling pink Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, one of the crucial elaborate church buildings in Mexico, and a cultural landmark for town.
To strive the well-known native delicacies, don’t miss high-end experiences similar to Zibu Allende or laid-back haunts like Tacos San Francisco, which serve unbelievable and no-frills tacos suadero and al pastor.
Puerto Vallarta
In case you love seashores, tequila, and tons of journey sports activities, then Puerto Vallarta is for you. This Mexican resort metropolis on the Pacific Coast is among the nation’s prime vacationer locations and likewise certainly one of its most secure.
You’ll fall in love with town’s laid again seashore vibe and ideal climate. And, when the relief wears off, you’ll love exploring the well-known outdated city and its cultural landmarks.
For anybody who loves the outside, Puerto Vallarta is stuffed with incredible actions, together with browsing and climbing. Climb up the Mirador el Cerro de la Cruz, a preferred lookout level that offers you a full view of the attractive metropolis, Sierra Madre Occidental mountains, and coastal countryside.
After stress-free and exploring, don’t miss hitting the city to expertise its well-known delicacies. Think about ceviche tostadas overflowing with seafood, bottomless micheladas, and cocktails made with Jalisco State’s world well-known tequila. You’ll need to keep in Puerto Vallarta endlessly.
You may have an abundance of various choices for stress-free by the seashore right here. Within the downtown space, try Playa de Muertos and Playa Camarones that are each lined with eating places and bars and all of the facilities you possibly can presumably want.
The latter means “shrimp seashore” – a nod to the assorted distributors who stroll up and down the sands promoting scrumptious, contemporary grilled shrimp to beachgoers. In case you are searching for one thing a bit quieter, lease a automotive in Puerto Vallarta and head up the coast to Yelapa, Mismaloya, or Conchas Chinas.
Though town is protected to go to, take note of the climate. This a part of Mexico typically experiences extreme tropical storms, particularly between June to November and a reasonably main storm rocked the world in October 2023.
Campeche Metropolis
Campeche Metropolis is the namesake capital of Campeche state, the least visited state within the tri-state Yucatan space, and a very fantastic, but untapped space.
Recognized for its pirate lore and colonial structure, Campeche can also be a protected metropolis to go to. You’ll discover the folks welcoming and the vibe distinctive.
Since so few folks enterprise right here from Quintana Roo or Yucatan cities like Merida, the lodging, meals, and excursions in Campeche are much more reasonably priced which is nice if you’re touring right here on a price range.
The UNESCO protected outdated city of Campeche is full of colourful buildings and cobblestone streets which have remained unchanged all through the centuries. The sun-bleached remnants of town’s outdated defensive partitions and historic forts that after protected the residents from pirates nonetheless stay right here, rusting cannons and all.
Whereas there isn’t a seashore within the rapid neighborhood of Campeche, you’ll be able to take a stroll alongside the seafront malecon, which is embellished with quite a few attractive modern artwork sculptures, and residential to among the finest sunsets in southeastern Mexico. When you’ve got entry to a car, you’ll be able to drive out to the white sand seashores in close by Isla de Aguadas.
Cease at one of many waterfront eating places to strive conventional dishes similar to Pan de Cazon and the favored breaded shrimp.
Campeche could be very protected, with low crime charges and few pure disasters. Nonetheless, the warmth will be relentless, so be certain that to remain hydrated, particularly whereas visiting the forts and historic websites within the area.
San Cristobal de Las Casas
Within the mountains of Chiapas is certainly one of Mexico’s most lovely and distinctive cities, San Cristobal de Las Casas. Right here, colonial structure mixes with limitless nature and a deep cultural heritage not like wherever else on earth.
Inside town, you’ll discover limitless artisans, folks artwork, and crafts. Town’s arts scene is among the most well-known in Mexico and no go to can be full with out exploring its galleries and museums just like the quirky Museo del Ámbar.
Town can also be well-known for its indigenous heritage. Few folks notice that there are greater than 68 completely different indigenous teams in Mexico, and many individuals in San Cristobal and the broader Chiapas space determine as Tzotzil or Zoque.
Many traditions are nonetheless practiced at the moment and as a customer, you’ll be able to attend occasions and festivities run by the local people. It’s also possible to take day journeys out to the native villages of Zinacantan and Chamula, the place you’ll be able to go to the fascinating San Juan de Chamula church and study in regards to the curanderos (witchdoctors) that work inside it.
On high of Chiapas deep cultural heritage and sights is its Chiapescan delicacies. Don’t miss an opportunity to strive native meals or the area’s corn-based spirit generally known as pox which the indigenous folks as soon as believed might transport them to and from the afterlife.
San Cristobal de Las Casas is a protected vacation spot, identified for its pleasant folks and low ranges of crime. Nonetheless, the area is house to the separatist Zapatistas and protests do happen sometimes. Keep away from all political demonstrations and all the time respect the native authorities.
Tulum
On the Yucatán Peninsula, within the sunny state of Quintana Roo, is town of Tulum. It has develop into one of many nation’s quickest rising locations and for a lot of causes.
First off, Tulum is house to the Mayan ruins of what stays of town of Zama. So far as archeologists are conscious, this was the solely metropolis that the Historical Mayans constructed by the coast.
This fascinating landmark sits on the fringe of the ocean and was as soon as a thriving Mayan buying and selling port, with temples and different massive buildings. Right this moment, no go to to Tulum can be full with out experiencing this historical marvel.
Another excuse Tulum is such a hot-spot for vacationers is its nature. From lovely cenotes to limitless seashores and wildlife areas, Tulum is like nowhere else on earth.
In recent times, town has seen a rise in yoga studios and retreat facilities, drawing in vacationers trying to loosen up and expertise private development. With this newfound consideration comes the nightlife. From beachside golf equipment to bars, Tulum’s nightlife by no means dies.
So far as security goes, Tulum has skilled a slight uptick in violence associated to drug trafficking. Though vacationers are seldom the victims of those crimes, it’s vital to keep away from medicine or wherever you suppose might be concerned in utilizing or promoting medicine.
That stated, Tulum stays a protected vacation spot for vacationers. You’ll love the pleasant folks, who will assist be sure you take pleasure in their metropolis and don’t overlook to study a bit Mayan whilst you’re there.
Playa Del Carmen
Simply up the coast from Tulum is Playa Del Carmen. This resort metropolis is known for its seashores and events. It’s additionally a beautiful place to expertise nature.
You’ll discover loads of deep sea fishing actions and excursions to the close by cenotes. On high of every thing is Playa Del Carmen’s world-famous diving. The reefs surrounding it are stuffed with marine life and colourful coral reefs.
After experiencing nature, head downtown to see the cultural coronary heart of town. Don’t miss a go to to the long-lasting Portal Maya, a towering sculpture that’s develop into a logo of town.
In case you love seafood, Playa Del Carmen received’t disappoint. Don’t miss well-known seafood eating places similar to Las Hijas de la Tostada. Or, for extra laid again delicacies, head to El Fogón, a neighborhood favourite for tacos and unbelievable salsas.
Like Tulum and different locations in Quintana Roo, keep away from medicine. Most crime on this area entails the drug commerce. In case you get a nasty feeling at a restaurant, bar, or seashore, head some place else. That stated, petty crime is low and Playa Del Carmen continues to be thought-about a protected vacation spot.
La Paz
Mexico’s Baja Peninsula is among the most lovely locations in North America, with its colourful deserts and crystal clear seas, few locations on earth are as magical. To have the final word Baja expertise, head to the small metropolis of La Paz.
Right here, you’ll fall in love with the laid-back vibes and pleasant ambiance. To not point out, unbelievable highlights such because the Malecón Promenade and fantastic museums.
Don’t miss an opportunity to go out on the Gulf of California for deep sea fishing, world class scuba diving, or wildlife viewing. Between October and February, La Paz turns into among the finest locations on this planet for swimming with whale sharks.
On high of its pure wonders and charming downtown is its meals. Seafood followers will instantly fall in love with La Paz’ widespread seafood eating places and down-home fish taco stands. Head to the Malecón Promenade and pattern the scrumptious road meals whereas exploring the native arts and crafts.
La Paz is among the most secure cities in Mexico, and arguably North America. The commonest type of crime is petty theft. At all times lock your valuables up if you head out out of your lodge or lodging and don’t go away your valuables unattended.
Sayulita
Only a few hours north of Puerto Vallarta is the attractive coastal metropolis of Sayulita. Right here, you’ll be able to take pleasure in limitless seashores and charming inns and beachside rooms, with loads of enjoyable actions and cultural highlights.
Town has a wealthy indigenous heritage, with many cultural festivities all year long. Don’t miss its charming downtown plaza for an opportunity to purchase native folks artwork or scrumptious road meals.
Sayulita is known for its outside actions, together with browsing, climbing, deep sea fishing, and scuba diving. In case you like to surf, head to Playa La Lancha, a fantastic seashore break with cafes and a fantastic path to the seashore.
Sayulita is a protected vacation spot, with loads of tourism infrastructure and pleasant locals. It’s widespread and simple to take a day journey right here from Puerto Vallarta and vice versa.
Nonetheless, understand that tropical storms and earthquakes happen. At all times test for climate advisories earlier than touring.
Huatulco
Within the various state of Oaxaca is the city of Santa María Huatulco. The city is small, with loads of charming eating places. Nonetheless, the largest draw for vacationers are the seashores, landmarks, and historic ruins surrounding it.
Huatulco’s seashores are among the most lovely in Mexico. You’ll discover hidden coves, romantic overlooks, and welcoming seashore cities the place time goes sluggish and the sweetness is limitless.
Don’t miss seashore locations similar to La Crucecita, Tangolunda, and Barra de la Cruz. Right here, surfers and journey seekers flock to expertise one of the crucial serene areas in Mexico.
Huatulco is a protected vacation spot, with pleasant locals and low crime charges. Nonetheless, Oaxaca does have earthquakes and occasional tropical storms. At all times keep up to date with the climate whereas touring.
Isla Holbox
In case you love lovely locations stuffed with nature, then Isla Holbox is the place to be. Recognized for its pleasant vibe and wildlife, you’ll discover a few of Mexico’s most colourful animals, just like the island’s well-known flamingos.
The island is only a two-hour journey from Cancun, however seems like a world away. You’ll be removed from the glitzy resorts, with small local-run cabins and homestays alongside the seashores and within the main city of Holbox.
If you would like a novel expertise, come right here from June to September to see the enormous whale sharks. Across the identical season, flocks of flamingos arrive, making their house within the lagoon.
Throughout this time you might also be fortunate sufficient to expertise Holbox bioluminescence – a beautiful phenomenon that sees the waters across the island illuminated with twinkling lights below the night time sky, because of the assorted microorganisms that stay inside them. Punta Cocos seashore is among the finest locations for this).
Isla Holbox is among the most secure cities in Mexico, with little or no crime and a low threat of pure disasters. There are not any automobiles on the island and folks get round in little golf carts.
You’ll be capable of journey freely by bike or buggy. Simply be careful for the wildlife!
San Jose Del Cabo
Near the Baja get together capital of Cabo San Lucas is the quieter and safer San Jose Del Cabo. Positioned on the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, San Jose Del Cabo provides guests loads of causes to go to.
Begin your go to off by visiting the charming downtown, with its lovely structure and quiet streets. Right here, you’ll discover most of the metropolis’s widespread seafood eating places, bars, and cafes.
One other draw for vacationers are the stainless seashores which rival any seashore vacation spot on this planet. You’ll discover limitless sand and solar, with little rainfall all year long.
Surfers particularly love San Jose Del Cabo. The waves are world class and supply a extra family-friendly vibe than close by Cabo San Lucas.
San Jose Del Cabo is a protected vacation spot, with low crime charges and pleasant, welcoming locals. That stated, town experiences tropical storms and occasional earthquakes. Verify the climate earlier than touring, particularly throughout hurricane season from June to November.
Aguascalientes
The historic and exquisite metropolis of Aguascalientes is a should go to for historical past lovers. It’s identified for its lovely surrounding pueblos magicos and historic metropolis middle, in addition to rural attraction.
You’ll really feel such as you’re in outdated Mexico, with its cobblestone streets and colonial structure. Stroll by means of the historic middle to see the Temple of San Marcos and the Regional Historical past Museum.
All year long, you’ll take pleasure in particular cultural occasions and loads of conventional folks artwork and meals gala’s. Town can also be stuffed with world-class museums, devoted to preserving the area’s wealthy historical past and tradition. Don’t miss the Up to date Artwork Museum and the Museo José Guadalupe Posada, devoted to the artist’s influential cranium artwork.
Town can also be a foodie’s heaven, well-known for its enchiladas and menudo. Don’t miss the road meals stalls, particularly throughout weekends and festivals. Right here, you’ll be able to pattern town’s well-known flautas and steamed corn.
Aguascalientes is among the most secure cities and friendliest cities in Mexico. The encircling cities and villages are additionally protected to go to, however be conscious of earthquakes and visitors.
Most secure Cities in Mexico: Ultimate Ideas
Hopefully this put up has given you some meals for thought on protected locations to go to in Mexico.
Though sure elements of the nation are experiencing safety points, you’ll be able to nonetheless go to many of the nation safely. In reality, many high Mexican locations are as protected as many locations within the USA or Europe.
Nonetheless, even in protected locations, issues can occur. By no means flash costly gadgets like cell telephones or jewellery, particularly whereas strolling by means of a spot you don’t know very effectively. And all the time restrict how a lot you drink.
Journey Recommendation:
Don’t overlook your Journey Insurance coverage! You don’t need something to break your journey, proper? So don’t take the chance! Dependable journey insurance coverage may also help you in case of journey points, from accidents to well being issues, journey delays, and misplaced baggage.
There are a lot of insurances out there, our picks are HeyMondo and SafetyWing. We used each and all the time had expertise. Click on on the insurance coverage names to get a quote.
One other factor to bear in mind with security in Mexico is that it lies on the ‘Ring of Hearth.’ This hotspot for earthquakes and volcanoes surrounds the Pacific Ocean and in Central and Western Mexico, earthquakes do happen, in addition to different disasters like hurricanes and floods. At all times test nationwide security info when touring and hearken to authorities if a catastrophe happens.
In regards to the Creator :
Melissa Douglas is a British Journey Author based mostly in Merida, Mexico. She has labored within the journey trade for over eight years and has produced content material for quite a few excessive profile publications. She runs the journey web site www.mexicotravelsecrets.com the place she encourages folks to discover Mexico off-the-beaten-path.
