Mexico combines ancient civilisations with Caribbean beaches, and it is growing in popularity among travellers from the Gulf. This 8-day itinerary starts in Mexico City and the Teotihuacán pyramids, then moves to Cancún and the Yucatán Peninsula, with an English version and an important note on entry requirements.
Best time to visit Mexico
December to April is the dry season and the best time for Cancún and the archaeological tours. June to November is the rainy season with possible hurricanes on the Caribbean coast, but prices are lower. Mexico City sits at high altitude and has mild weather most of the year.
Day-by-day itinerary
| Day | City | Activities | Transport | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico City | Arrival, the Zócalo | Flight to Mexico City (MEX) | Hotel, Mexico City |
| 2 | Mexico City | National Museum of Anthropology, Chapultepec Park | Metro | Hotel, Mexico City |
| 3 | Teotihuacán | Day trip to the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon | Organised tour | Hotel, Mexico City |
| 4 | Mexico City → Cancún | Transfer, the Hotel Zone | Domestic flight (about 2 hours) | Hotel, Cancún |
| 5 | Chichén Itzá | Day trip to the Mayan city and cenotes | Organised tour | Hotel, Cancún |
| 6 | Tulum and Playa del Carmen | Clifftop ruins, Fifth Avenue | Car | Hotel, Cancún |
| 7 | Isla Mujeres | Island trip | Ferry | Hotel, Cancún |
| 8 | Cancún | Departure | Flight from Cancún (CUN) | — |
Getting around and practical tips
A domestic flight between Mexico City and Cancún is the only practical option, and flights are frequent. In Mexico City, ride-hailing apps are safer than hailing a taxi on the street. In Cancún, a rental car makes it easy to visit Tulum and the cenotes at your own pace. Chichén Itzá is relatively far, so an organised tour is more comfortable.
Visa and entry requirements
Mexico usually admits holders of a valid US, UK, Schengen or Canadian visa without a Mexican visa; otherwise you need a visa from the Mexican embassy. Check the current requirements for your nationality on the website of the Mexican embassy in Riyadh. If you are applying for a visa, the itinerary together with preliminary flight reservations and hotel bookings explains your trip.
We prepare this itinerary with your own dates, with flight and hotel bookings in Mexico City and Cancún.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Schengen visa enough to enter Mexico?
Usually yes if it is valid, but the rules can change, so check the official website before you travel.
Can I visit Cancún only?
Yes. Flying straight to Cancún and spending a week between the beaches and the archaeological sites is a popular option.
Do I need travel insurance?
Strongly recommended because of private hospital costs. Travel insurance
