A week in Mexico: what to explore

Travel Itinerary

Imagine waking up in Mexico, the sun spilling into your room, the scent of fresh tortillas wafting through the air. You have an entire week to explore, and trust me, it’s going to be amazing. This itinerary will take you through a delightful mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Each day is like a taco—filled with unique experiences and just enough spice to keep things interesting.

Day 1: Arrival in Mexico City

Morning: Land at Mexico City International Airport. Grab a coffee at the airport; you’ll need it. Take the Metro or a taxi to your hotel in the historic center (30-45 minutes). Check in and drop off your bags.

Afternoon: Stroll through the Zócalo, the main square. You’ll find the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. Don’t forget to take a selfie with the locals. Grab lunch at a nearby taqueria—try tacos al pastor. Your taste buds will thank you.

Evening: Visit the Museo Frida Kahlo in Coyoacán (20-minute taxi ride). Explore the vibrant colors of her house and the art that speaks volumes. Have dinner at La Casa Azul nearby, and indulge in some mole. Trust me, it’s a hug for your taste buds.

Day 2: Teotihuacan and Puebla

Morning: Early rise! Take a bus to Teotihuacan (1-hour ride). Walk up the Pyramid of the Sun and feel like a king or queen for a moment. It’s a workout, but hey, you’re on vacation.

Afternoon: After conquering the pyramids, grab lunch at a local spot near the site. Then hop on a bus to Puebla (1.5-hour ride). Explore the historic center, and make sure to check out the Talavera pottery shops. Your Instagram will love it.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at El Mural de los Poblanos—don’t miss the chiles en nogada. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the city, soaking in the colonial architecture and maybe plotting your return.

Day 3: Oaxaca and cooking class

Morning: Take an early flight or a long bus ride to Oaxaca (1-hour flight, about 6 hours by bus). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and grab some breakfast. Try the local tlayudas; they’re like a giant, delicious pizza.

Afternoon: Join a cooking class. You’ll learn how to make mole from scratch, which is basically culinary magic. You’ll impress your friends back home, or at least make them jealous.

Evening: After feasting on your culinary creations, explore the vibrant markets of Oaxaca. Pick up some souvenirs and sample local mezcal. Just don’t overdo it; you’ll want to remember this trip.

Day 4: Monte Albán and beach time

Morning: Visit Monte Albán, an ancient Zapotec city (30-minute taxi ride). Climb to the top and marvel at the views. It’s like nature’s way of saying, “Look how small you are.”

Afternoon: Head back to Oaxaca for lunch, then catch a flight or bus to Puerto Escondido (1-hour flight or about 8 hours by bus). Check into your beachside hotel and soak in the sun.

Evening: Enjoy a beachfront dinner at a local seafood spot. Order some fresh ceviche and watch the sunset. It’s what vacations are made for, right?

Day 5: Surfing and relaxation

Morning: Try surfing at Playa Zicatela. Even if you wipe out (which you probably will), it’ll be a blast. Rent a board for a couple of hours and ride the waves. Or just pretend to be a pro on your board; no one will know.

Afternoon: Chill at the beach or visit the nearby lagoons of Chacahua (1-hour taxi ride). Enjoy the natural beauty and maybe spot some crocodiles. Just don’t try to pet them; they’re not as friendly as they look.

Evening: Dinner at a local taco stand. Try fish tacos—your beach body will thank you. Afterward, you can enjoy some nightlife at a beach bar or just relax with a good book by the ocean.

Day 6: Day trip to Mazunte

Morning: Take a bus to Mazunte (45-minute ride). This beach town is known for its laid-back vibe. Walk around, take in the sights, and maybe find some sea turtles at the sanctuary.

Afternoon: Have lunch at a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy some grilled octopus; it’s fresh and delicious. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach, sipping on coconut water, and working on your tan. Or your sunburn, depending on your luck.

Evening: Return to Puerto Escondido. Enjoy dinner at a different seafood joint. Try the shrimp tacos this time; they’re a game changer.

Day 7: Farewell to Mexico

Morning: One last beach morning. Sip on some coffee and watch the surfers ride the waves. Take a final dip in the ocean; it’s like saying goodbye to an old friend.

Afternoon: Pack up, check out, and head to the airport. Reflect on how you managed to eat your body weight in tacos and still fit into your clothes.

Evening: Fly out, dreaming of the next taco adventure. Mexico has a way of wrapping itself around your heart. Until next time, amigos!

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