From Mexico City and Puebla to Oaxaca, Chiapas, and Yucat\u00e1n, here is what we\u2019d want every traveler to know before starting the route. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mexico City Essentials (Days 0-3) <\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.travelupapp.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mexico-day-1-1024x663.jpg\")
The Soumaya Museum, a large building west of the City of Mexico.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nWe recommend arriving in Mexico City in the early evening so you can rest before beginning your explorations of this incredible city in the morning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting from the airport is easy<\/strong>: unlike many major capitals, Mexico City airport is inside the city, so Uber or taxi to the center usually takes 30-40 minutes and costs less than $25. <\/p>\n\n\n\nWhere to Stay in Mexico City<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Choose the Paseo de la Reforma area. It offers the best balance of location, comfort, and safety. While the Historic Center is beautiful during the day, some streets feel much less comfortable at night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
What to See in Mexico City<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Reforma<\/a> for the city\u2019s modern heart <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Anthropology Museum<\/a> to understand Mexico\u2019s civilization layers <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Chapultepec Castle<\/a> for views and imperial history <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Historic Center for the Cathedral<\/a>, Z\u00f3calo<\/a>, and Templo Mayor<\/a> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Coyoac\u00e1n<\/a> & Frida Kahlo Museum<\/a> for colonial charm <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Polanco<\/a> for luxury Mexico City <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Teotihuac\u00e1n<\/a> for ancient Mexico at its most impressive <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Transport Hack in Mexico City<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Use the Turibus<\/a>. It works as both sightseeing and transportation, especially for Reforma and Polanco. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest Local Experiences in Mexico City<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Sal\u00f3n Tenampa<\/a> at Plaza Garibaldi for live mariachi <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Museo Soumaya<\/a> open-air exhibition near Torre Latinoamericana, a stop many guides don\u2019t know <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Exclusive TravUp Hack <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t visit Teotihuac\u00e1n only on foot. Start with a sunrise hot-air balloon ride, then explore the pyramids walking. Finish with lunch at La Gruta<\/a>, a unique cave restaurant, former Aztec sacred place, near the archaeological zone. <\/p>\n\n\n\nPuebla Essentials (Day 3-4) <\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Cholula,](\"https:\/\/www.travelupapp.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mexico-day3-1024x621.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWe strongly recommend visiting Puebla via rental car or private driver service. While the city center is walkable, the best highlights, especially Cholula and the volcano viewpoints, are much easier to access with a car. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where to Stay in Puebla<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Choose the Historic Center, ideally in one of Puebla\u2019s beautiful colonial buildings. But watch one detail when booking: check the room windows carefully. Many boutique hotels in restored colonial mansions have rooms facing only an inner patio or corridor, and some have no exterior windows at all. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
What to See in Puebla<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Historic Center & Z\u00f3calo for Puebla<\/a>\u2019s colonial heart <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Puebla Cathedral<\/a> for one of Mexico\u2019s most impressive religious landmarks <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Capilla del Rosario<\/a> for its spectacular gold-covered baroque interior <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Local market to experience daily Puebla life <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Barrio de los Sapos<\/a> for colorful streets, antiques, and artisan shops <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Forts of Loreto and Guadalupe<\/a> for city views and Mexican history <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
And, don\u2019t skip Cholula, Puebla\u2019s most iconic day trip!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here you\u2019ll find the largest pyramid in the world hidden under what looks like a hill. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the legendary volcanoes Popocat\u00e9petl and Iztacc\u00edhuatl. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nearby, visit Santa Mar\u00eda Tonantzintla<\/a>, one of the most unusual churches in Mexico. Its interior is a masterpiece of indigenous baroque, where Catholic imagery blends with native symbolism in extraordinary detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest Puebla Hack<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Come hungry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Puebla is one of Mexico\u2019s culinary capitals, so this is not the place to diet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Make sure to try mole, the city\u2019s iconic rich sauce made with dozens of ingredients, including chocolate and spices. If visiting in season, don\u2019t miss chiles en nogada, one of Mexico\u2019s most famous and symbolic dishes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Taxco Essentials (Day 5)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Cristo](\"https:\/\/www.travelupapp.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mexico-day-5-1024x683.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTaxco is best explored on foot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This magical mountain town is all about getting lost in its narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, hidden stairways, and unexpected viewpoints. Walking here is not just transportation, it\u2019s the experience itself. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exclusive TravUp Hack<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t try to drive a car through the historic center. Streets are extremely narrow, steep, and often chaotic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
What to See in Taxco<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Santa Prisca Church<\/a>, the city\u2019s iconic pink-stone baroque cathedral <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Local market for food and everyday local life <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Silver workshops and jewelry stores throughout the historic center <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Cristo Monumental<\/a> for the best panoramic views over Taxco <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Taxco is Mexico\u2019s silver capital, so shopping here is almost mandatory. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The craftsmanship, unique design, and surprisingly accessible prices, make Taxco one of the best places in Mexico to buy gifts for yourself and friends. Take your time browsing silver boutiques, touching handcrafted pieces, trying on jewelry, and admiring intricate silver sculptures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Taxco Shopping Tip <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Prices often depend not only on design, but also on the weight and purity of the silver used (just like gold), so don\u2019t hesitate to compare stores. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For adventurous food lovers, visit the local market and try salsa de jumil. Jumiles are aromatic edible insects used in traditional regional sauces. Definitely not for everyone, but very local and unforgettable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best Taxco Hack <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Take a ride in one of the legendary white Volkswagen Beetle taxis up to Cristo Monumental<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThey\u2019re practically the only cars nimble enough for Taxco\u2019s steep, narrow streets, and the ride itself feels like an attraction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
From the top, the view is unforgettable: white houses cascading down the mountainside, church towers rising from the valley, and Taxco looking like something between a fairy tale and a movie set. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oaxaca Essentials (Day 6-9) <\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"traditional](\"https:\/\/cdn.travelupapp.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/3.day_.AIC_.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIf Mexico has soul, a big part of it lives in Oaxaca. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oaxaca is one of Mexico\u2019s culinary capitals and the heartland of Zapotec culture. This makes it one of the richest regions in the country for food, craftsmanship, and ancient history. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To explore the region properly, we strongly recommend a rental car or private driver. Many of Oaxaca\u2019s best experiences are outside the city and not easy to reach by public transport. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
What to See in Oaxaca City<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Historic Center for Oaxaca\u2019s colonial heart <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Oaxaca Zocalo<\/a> and Cathedral<\/a> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Santo Domingo Church<\/a>, one of the most beautiful churches in Mexico <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Macedonio Alcal\u00e1<\/a>, the city\u2019s main pedestrian street <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Benito Ju\u00e1rez Market<\/a> for local food and everyday life <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Fort\u00edn Hill<\/a> viewpoint for panoramic city views <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
But Oaxaca is much more than the city itself. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best Day Trips from Oaxaca <\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Monte Alb\u00e1n<\/a>, the first major city of Mesoamerica, with spectacular views over the valley <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Mitla<\/a>, the sacred Zapotec city known as the gateway to the underworld <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Hierve el Agua<\/a>, Oaxaca\u2019s famous petrified waterfalls <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- El \u00c1rbol del Tule<\/a>, the world\u2019s widest tree <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Mezcal distilleries to understand Mexico\u2019s most misunderstood spirit <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Traditional carpet workshops, where artisans still use centuries-old weaving techniques and natural dyes <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Chocolate workshops, where you can make traditional Oaxacan chocolate by hand <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Exclusive TravUp Hack <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Be sure to explore beyond the main streets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some of Oaxaca\u2019s best experiences are hidden behind doors. Step into courtyards, art galleries, craft workshops, and boutique stores tucked inside colonial buildings. This is where the city feels most magical. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also don\u2019t skip Xochimilco<\/a>, Oaxaca\u2019s oldest neighborhood. Its historic aqueduct, colorful murals, artisan studios, and relaxed atmosphere show a quieter, more authentic side of the city. <\/p>\n\n\n\nAnd most importantly: come hungry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oaxaca is a paradise for food lovers, so try as much local cuisine as possible. Especially the famous moles, Oaxaca\u2019s complex signature sauces made from cacao with dozens of ingredients. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
And if you try mezcal, enjoy it properly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sip it slowly, usually with an orange slice, sal de gusano (worm salt), and for the adventurous, chapulines \u2014 Oaxaca\u2019s famous toasted grasshoppers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Want the full route? Explore our complete 18-Day Mexico itinerary<\/a> or experience it directly in the TravUp app<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nUse promo code MEXICOBLG3M by June 30 to get 3 months of free access<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We recommend arriving in Mexico City in the early evening so you can rest before beginning your explorations of this incredible city in the morning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting from the airport is easy<\/strong>: unlike many major capitals, Mexico City airport is inside the city, so Uber or taxi to the center usually takes 30-40 minutes and costs less than $25. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Choose the Paseo de la Reforma area. It offers the best balance of location, comfort, and safety. While the Historic Center is beautiful during the day, some streets feel much less comfortable at night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Use the Turibus<\/a>. It works as both sightseeing and transportation, especially for Reforma and Polanco. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t visit Teotihuac\u00e1n only on foot. Start with a sunrise hot-air balloon ride, then explore the pyramids walking. Finish with lunch at La Gruta<\/a>, a unique cave restaurant, former Aztec sacred place, near the archaeological zone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n We strongly recommend visiting Puebla via rental car or private driver service. While the city center is walkable, the best highlights, especially Cholula and the volcano viewpoints, are much easier to access with a car. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Choose the Historic Center, ideally in one of Puebla\u2019s beautiful colonial buildings. But watch one detail when booking: check the room windows carefully. Many boutique hotels in restored colonial mansions have rooms facing only an inner patio or corridor, and some have no exterior windows at all. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And, don\u2019t skip Cholula, Puebla\u2019s most iconic day trip!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here you\u2019ll find the largest pyramid in the world hidden under what looks like a hill. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the legendary volcanoes Popocat\u00e9petl and Iztacc\u00edhuatl. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Nearby, visit Santa Mar\u00eda Tonantzintla<\/a>, one of the most unusual churches in Mexico. Its interior is a masterpiece of indigenous baroque, where Catholic imagery blends with native symbolism in extraordinary detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Come hungry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Puebla is one of Mexico\u2019s culinary capitals, so this is not the place to diet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Make sure to try mole, the city\u2019s iconic rich sauce made with dozens of ingredients, including chocolate and spices. If visiting in season, don\u2019t miss chiles en nogada, one of Mexico\u2019s most famous and symbolic dishes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Taxco is best explored on foot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This magical mountain town is all about getting lost in its narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, hidden stairways, and unexpected viewpoints. Walking here is not just transportation, it\u2019s the experience itself. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t try to drive a car through the historic center. Streets are extremely narrow, steep, and often chaotic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Taxco is Mexico\u2019s silver capital, so shopping here is almost mandatory. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The craftsmanship, unique design, and surprisingly accessible prices, make Taxco one of the best places in Mexico to buy gifts for yourself and friends. Take your time browsing silver boutiques, touching handcrafted pieces, trying on jewelry, and admiring intricate silver sculptures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Prices often depend not only on design, but also on the weight and purity of the silver used (just like gold), so don\u2019t hesitate to compare stores. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For adventurous food lovers, visit the local market and try salsa de jumil. Jumiles are aromatic edible insects used in traditional regional sauces. Definitely not for everyone, but very local and unforgettable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Take a ride in one of the legendary white Volkswagen Beetle taxis up to Cristo Monumental<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They\u2019re practically the only cars nimble enough for Taxco\u2019s steep, narrow streets, and the ride itself feels like an attraction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n From the top, the view is unforgettable: white houses cascading down the mountainside, church towers rising from the valley, and Taxco looking like something between a fairy tale and a movie set. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If Mexico has soul, a big part of it lives in Oaxaca. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Oaxaca is one of Mexico\u2019s culinary capitals and the heartland of Zapotec culture. This makes it one of the richest regions in the country for food, craftsmanship, and ancient history. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To explore the region properly, we strongly recommend a rental car or private driver. Many of Oaxaca\u2019s best experiences are outside the city and not easy to reach by public transport. <\/p>\n\n\n\n But Oaxaca is much more than the city itself. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Be sure to explore beyond the main streets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Some of Oaxaca\u2019s best experiences are hidden behind doors. Step into courtyards, art galleries, craft workshops, and boutique stores tucked inside colonial buildings. This is where the city feels most magical. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Also don\u2019t skip Xochimilco<\/a>, Oaxaca\u2019s oldest neighborhood. Its historic aqueduct, colorful murals, artisan studios, and relaxed atmosphere show a quieter, more authentic side of the city. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And most importantly: come hungry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Oaxaca is a paradise for food lovers, so try as much local cuisine as possible. Especially the famous moles, Oaxaca\u2019s complex signature sauces made from cacao with dozens of ingredients. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And if you try mezcal, enjoy it properly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Sip it slowly, usually with an orange slice, sal de gusano (worm salt), and for the adventurous, chapulines \u2014 Oaxaca\u2019s famous toasted grasshoppers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Want the full route? Explore our complete 18-Day Mexico itinerary<\/a> or experience it directly in the TravUp app<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Use promo code MEXICOBLG3M by June 30 to get 3 months of free access<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nWhere to Stay in Mexico City<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What to See in Mexico City<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Best Transport Hack in Mexico City<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Best Local Experiences in Mexico City<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Exclusive TravUp Hack <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Puebla Essentials (Day 3-4) <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhere to Stay in Puebla<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What to See in Puebla<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Best Puebla Hack<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Taxco Essentials (Day 5)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nExclusive TravUp Hack<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What to See in Taxco<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Taxco Shopping Tip <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Best Taxco Hack <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Oaxaca Essentials (Day 6-9) <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat to See in Oaxaca City<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Best Day Trips from Oaxaca <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Exclusive TravUp Hack <\/h3>\n\n\n\n