29 Safest Cities, Beaches, and Resort Towns in Mexico [2023]

Is it safe to travel to Mexico? Are there even safe places in this country? And if yes, what are the safest cities in Mexico to visit?

People often ask these questions, and rightfully so, because Mexico is a big country with a bit of a reputation with drug cartels, doesn’t it?

But the truth is, nowhere on earth is 100% safe. Just like everywhere else, Mexico has some unsavory elements, but that doesn’t mean that the whole country is unsafe. In fact, there are many safe places in Mexico – and I’m not just talking about beach towns and resort cities like Cancun or Cabo.

I have visited almost every state in Mexico, and I know first-hand that many places here are perfectly safe for travelers – especially if you’re sticking to the popular beaches and tourist areas. In this article, I will share with you a list of the 29 safest places in Mexico to visit, including major cities and relaxing beach towns.

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What parts of Mexico are safe?

According to the 2018 Mexico Peace Index, the state of Yucatan has the lowest crime rate. It not only has the lowest homicide rate and the third-lowest violent crime rate in the country but also has a low combined rate of robbery, assault, and sexual assault.

Yucatan is famous for Chichen Itza, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and Mexico’s most iconic archaeological sites. In recent years, Yucatan has become increasingly safe for tourists. Visitors can now enjoy the region’s safest stunning beaches as well as fascinating historical sites without worry.

What city in Mexico is considered safest with the lowest crime rate?

Merida is widely recognized as the safest city in Mexico and Latin America with a very low crime rate in all categories: robberies, assault, vandalism, theft, and drug-related crimes.

👉 Is it Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now? Learn 27 Tips to Minimize Risks when visiting Mexico!

What are dangerous places to avoid traveling in Mexico?

Mexico is a vast and diverse country with plenty of safe places to visit. However, there are also some dangerous parts of the country that travelers should avoid. The most dangerous areas of Mexico are usually found in the states of Colima, Tamaulipas, Sinaloa, Michoacan, and Guerrero (home to the once popular Mexican beach destination – Acapulco). These states have high levels of drug-related violence, robberies, and kidnappings.

The United States State Department provides up-to-date information on which places in Mexico are safe for visitors as well as safety alerts and travel warnings. They evaluate states, not cities, so it’s important to understand that there are some safe tourist destinations in an overall unsafe state.

What is the safest place to vacation in Mexico?

With the lowest crime rate, the Mexican state of Yucatan is considered the safest area in Mexico to visit (including Merida and Valladolid). I personally feel safer in resort towns like Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum as I saw many safety procedures in place and police officers constantly on patrol.

❄️Looking for something unique? Don’t forget to take a look at these 10 amazing places to find snow in Mexico!

Is it safe to go to resorts in Mexico?

While it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when traveling to any new place, resorts in Mexico have security measures in place to keep guests safe. In addition, most resorts are located in tourist areas that are not affected by drug-related violence and crime. As a result, travelers can rest assured that staying at resorts in Mexico is much safer than staying at Airbnb or vacation rentals in residential areas.

Are Mexican all-inclusive resorts safer than regular hotels?

Safety is a top priority for all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, and they do have a lot of guards and security cameras around the premises. Unlike at regular hotels where anyone can get in and wander around the lobbies and common lounges, only guests with a designated bracelet can get into all-inclusive resorts and access the private beaches as well as common areas.

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Safe Destinations to Travel in Mexico: 29 Safest Cities, Beaches, and Resort Towns

Looking for a fun-filled and worry-free vacation in Mexico? Below, you will find the 29 safest cities and beach resort towns in Mexico, each of which is perfect for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient ruins, soak up some sun on the beach, or enjoy a lively nightlife scene, you’ll find a location on this list that’s perfect for you.

1. Cancun – One of the Safest Beach Vacation Spots in Mexico

Despite Hurricane Wilma’s devastating effects in 2005, Cancun has rebuilt as one of the best cities and most popular Mexican tourist destinations. With its beautiful beaches, top-rated all-inclusive resorts, and easy access to the best attractions of Riviera Maya, there’s no shortage of amazing things to see or do when you visit this paradise on earth!

The strip of Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) along Mexico’s Caribbean Sea has been Cancun’s best attraction because not only does it offer world-class resort amenities, beautiful white sand beaches, gorgeous views but also mouthwatering food.

🏨Where to find the safest resorts in Cancun, Mexico? Learn more about where to stay in Cancun here.

While there are plenty of public beaches in Cancun, the best seaweed-free and safest beaches in Cancun belong to all-inclusive resorts in the Hotel Zone. There are security guards at the gate and guards on rounds touring the properties to make sure that only the hotel guests can enter the resorts and their private beaches.

There are also plenty of things to do in Cancun, with acrobatic dance performances at Coco Bongo being a particularly popular attraction for party-lovers. You can also enjoy plenty of water sports activities in La Isla (Cancun Hotel Zone Kukulcan Km 12) or try spinnaker activity on a catamaran to the nearby Isla Mujeres island.

In addition, Cancun is the gateway to many popular vacation spots in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo that are accessible by cars such as Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Morelos. From Cancun, you can also reach Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, in under three hours.

My personal experience in Cancun was generally positive and I felt safe for the most part. Although there was one time I walked out of Cancun Hotel Zone because I thought it would be a great way to see the city at night. But oh my, it was such a bad idea!

Just about 7-10 minutes outside of the tourist area, everything changed. The streets started getting less crowded and much darker, and I got scared. This experience made me realize that Cancun may not be as safe if you wander too far away from tourist areas.

Overall, despite this incident, Cancun is still one of my favorite cities. I still consider it to be one of the safest cities in Mexico for solo or female travelers as long as you stay within the tourist areas at night time or during dusk hours when visibility is low. There are also plenty of local sights that are worth visiting during daylight hours with safety precautions taken into consideration.

🛎️Learn 21 Mistakes to Avoid in Cancun to Enjoy Safe Travel

2. Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a charming coastal resort town in Riviera Maya that’s just about one hour drive from Cancun. It used to be a small fishing village but has seen massive growth over the years. Playa del Carmen is now known for its vibrant Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) and some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Mexico.

With its proximity to ancient ruins like Tulum and the ferry to Cozumel, Playa del Carmen is the perfect gateway to your dream vacation.

While you’re in Playa del Carmen, don’t miss out on the eco-tourism theme parks of Xcaret. Some of my favorite parks are Xplor (for ATV adventures and stalactite river underground expedition), Xcaret (cultural activities and amazing night show), and Xel Ha (eco water parks with zip-lines and hammock splash).

3. Cozumel

Cozumel is a beautiful island located off the Yucatan Peninsula, a ferry away from Playa del Carmen. It’s famous for its powdery white-sand beaches, bustling downtown area, coral reefs and clear turquoise waters that are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Cozumel is a very popular Mexican destination for Caribbean cruises, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t find quiet beaches to relax.

The safest beaches in Cozumel, Mexico would be the private beaches in the top Cozumel all-inclusive resorts, as there are many security measures in place. However, if you are on a day trip to Cozumel, you can also just buy a Beach Club All-Inclusive Day Pass to enjoy a safe private beach and its amenities.

If you want more adventure, you can take a submarine, join a glass-bottom boat snorkeling tour, or explore the coral reefs by scuba diving!

On the other hand, if you’re looking to save money and want to enjoy unlimited snorkeling in Cozumel, consider purchasing your own gear and bringing it with you. I personally saw a lot of fish and other sea life while snorkeling from the beach at my resort, but you can also explore the crystal clear waters from one of Cozumel’s public beaches.

🤿 Don’t let the hassle of adjusting to a separate snorkel mask and breathing tube hold you back from enjoying the beauty of the sea, consider buying a full face snorkel mask instead!

I bought it last minute in Mexico for almost 70 U.S dollars and loved it so much that I had to get another one for my husband. But you can get it on Amazon for much cheaper!

4. Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a small island located just off the coast of Cancun. It’s a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and laid-back atmosphere.

With the name meaning “Island of Women, Isla Mujeres was a sacred place where women went to worship the goddess Ixchel, the goddess for medicine and fertility. Today, Isla Mujeres is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach. There are also a number of restaurants and bars, as well as shops and markets selling local handicrafts.

One of the best ways to explore Isla Mujeres is to take a catamaran from Cancun. On the way to the island, you will stop for some of the best snorkeling in the area. The crystal clear water is teeming with colorful fish.

👉 Learn 9 Safety Tips and Things to Be Careful of in Isla Mujeres

On the island, you can drive a golf cart around to see what the island has to offer. On the way back from Isla Mujeres, you can try your hand at spinnaker activity. This is a unique experience you won’t soon forget. The catamaran also has open bars, so you can enjoy a few drinks while you sail.

Some tour operators won’t let you enter the water if you’re wearing non-reef-safe sunscreen. Protect yourself and the ocean by purchasing Reef-Safe SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion now!

5. Tulum

Tulum is a small, bohemian beach town in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo that faces the Caribbean Sea. It is known as one of the safest beach destinations in Mexico.

Here, you’ll find everything from oceanfront all-inclusive resorts to chic hotels, as well as an impressive selection of great restaurants and bars. With swaying palm trees and white-sand beaches, it’s easy to relax and let your worries melt away.

But a beach vacation is not all you can get in Tulum, the town is also known for its incredible archeological site and Mayan ruins. The ruins of the ancient Mayan port city are picturesque and make for some great photography, while also providing insight into Mexico’s rich history.

6. Akumal

Akumal is a coastal resort town on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, located about 30 minutes north of the popular town of Tulum, and about two hours south of Cancun. It is a must-see destination for visitors who love white sands, coral reefs, warm waters, and sea turtles. In recent years, residents have had to limit the number of visitors in order to protect the rare sea turtles and marine life in the area.

You will be safe in Akumal with its added security measure as the all-inclusive hotels and resorts are located in a gated community.

One thing worth doing during an Akumal visit is exploring the nearby Yal Ku Lagoon – this protected lagoon combines both freshwaters with saltwater from tides, making it an incredible spot for snorkeling and finding turtles.

7. Bacalar

If you’re looking for a beautiful and enchanting Mexico pueblo magico or magic town to visit, Bacalar is the perfect place for you. Located in the Yucatan Peninsula about three hours south of Tulum and five hours south of Cancun, Bacalar has become more and more popular in recent years thanks to viral social media posts.

Bacalar is known for its natural attractions, which include a huge expanse of shallow water called the “Laguna de Los Siete Colores” (Lake of Seven Colors). This lagoon is home to brilliantly blue tones, thanks to the compositions of crystals present in the water.

There’s also plenty of history and adventure to be experienced in Bacalar, Mexico – including a Piracy Museum in The Fort of San Felipe which tells the story of the town’s relationship with pirates. You can also enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the Rapids of Bacalar, Cenote Cocalitos, Emerald Cenote, Black Cenote, and Cenote Azul.

8. Isla Holbox

Isla Holbox is a beautiful, secluded island off the northeastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, a few hours northwest of Cancun. It’s well known for its calm, quiet beaches and incredible sunsets. Here, you will find prime bird-watching and fishing opportunities.

The best way to see Isla Holbox is by bike or golf cart, and you won’t see many cars on the roads. As you relax on the island with beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear water, keep an eye out for the numerous flamingoes that call Isla Holbox home!

Although Isla Holbox is not as touristy as Isla Mujeres or Cozumel, crime is not an issue here. In fact, you will find Isla Holbox among the safest coastal cities in Mexico to visit.

9. Puerto Vallarta

If you’re looking for an amazing adventure, Puerto Vallarta is the place for you. This Mexican city has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches and snorkeling to world-class sailing and vibrant nightlife.

The Malecon Boardwalk is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, with its open-air performances and artistic expressions at Los Arcos amphitheater, amazing views of the Pacific Ocean, and iconic Puerto Vallarta sunsets. After dark, the boardwalk comes alive with bars and clubs that attract people from all over.

On the other side of the Cuale River, you will find the colorful neighborhood Romantic Zone, filled with art galleries, trendy restaurants, and Mexican-style cobbled streets.

Thanks to the Sierra Madre mountain range and its tropical forests, Puerto Vallarta is an enchanting place way beyond its beaches. As you walk through the paths at Vallarta Botanical Gardens, you will find the Tropical Fruit Orchard with an amazing collection of oaks, the Cactus Garden with various forms and sizes, and the Conservatory of Orchids and Native Plants, with almost 300 species native to Mexico.

10. Punta Mita

Looking for a luxurious and secluded Mexico beach vacation spot? Look no further than Punta Mita. This area is home to some of the most upscale vacation rentals and five-star hotels in the country, including a St. Regis and a Four Seasons.

Because the lodging options are limited, the beaches here are less crowded and better maintained than those at neighboring resorts. If you’re looking for some extra privacy while sunbathing, take a boat to one of the secluded beaches like La Lancha or the Islas Marietas. You’ll find that the water is clean and clear, and the sand is white and soft.

11. La Paz

La Paz is a Mexican coastal town in the state of Baja California Sur that is well-known for its eco-tourism.

Some of the best things to do in La Paz include swimming with sea lions, whale sharks, and spending the day at Balandra Beach. Todos Santos, a historic town about an hour’s drive from La Paz, is also worth visiting. You can also take a day trip to Isla Espíritu Santo, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Park.

Don’t forget to check out La Paz’s seafront Malecón promenade with beaches, parks, and art by both Mexican and international artists.

La Paz might be one of the safest areas in Mexico, but as any tourist knows there’s always some crime to beware of. You should make sure not to leave belongings unattended and watch out for petty thefts.

12. Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas, located on the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, is one of the most popular resort towns in Mexico. Here you’ll find miles of beautiful beaches perfect for soaking up the sun and plenty of water-based activities to keep you busy. When you’re not out enjoying the waves, you can explore the town’s lively nightlife.

Just be careful when swimming in the ocean – the currents can be very dangerous. If you’re looking for the perfect sunset, don’t forget to check out Land’s End, sandwiched between Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach) and Playa del Divorcio (Divorce Beach).

Is Cabo San Lucas safe to visit right now? Learn more about safety tips and things to be careful of in Cabo here!

13. San Jose del Cabo

San Jose del Cabo is a charming Mexican town that is a great alternative to the party-filled streets of Cabo San Lucas. You can drive or take a taxi ride to San Jose del Cabo, as it is only 20 miles northeast of downtown Cabo San Lucas.

With beautiful churches, restaurants, and beaches, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the Mexican culture. The town square, Plaza Mijares, is a great place to start your exploration of San Jose del Cabo. Here you’ll find the town’s mission church and town hall, as well as several restaurants and shops.

If you’re looking for a beach to relax on, check out Playa Palmilla or Playa Santa Maria. San Jose del Cabo is also home to some excellent golf courses, so be sure to check them out if you’re a fan of the game. And you don’t want to miss the great fare in town either. You’ll find excellent Mexican food around town at affordable prices.

14. Sayulita

Mexico is full of beautiful beach towns, but if you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of waves for surfing, Sayulita is a perfect choice. Located about 25 miles northwest of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita has a great selection of shops and cafes, as well as two lovely beaches – Playa Carricitos and Playa Sayulita.

Both beaches are perfect for sunbathing, but if you’re looking to catch a wave, Playa Sayulita is the better choice. Whichever beach you choose, you’re sure to enjoy your time in this charming town.

15. Huatulco

Huatulco is a 20-mile stretch of the Pacific coastline in Mexico’s southern state of Oaxaca. It features nine bays and more than 30 beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

There are also plenty of opportunities for adventure, with secluded beaches accessible only via hiking trails and boat rides (such as Bahia de Cacaluta in Parque Nacional Huatulco). If you’re looking for a breathtaking waterfall tour or some deep-sea fishing, Huatulco has you covered.

Huatulco’s natural beauty is matched by its warm, welcoming people. You’ll find that the locals are always happy to help make your vacation perfect, whether it’s offering directions to the best beach or sharing their favorite restaurant. Huatulco also has a lot of expatriates and is considered one of the safest places to live in Mexico.

16. Mazatlan

Mazatlán is a Mexican resort town located on the Pacific coastline in the state of Sinaloa. Although the state of Sinaloa has a reputation of being unsafe, Mazatlán is a haven of the state and one of the safest beach towns in Mexico. Its 14 miles of sandy beaches, beautiful boardwalk and big-game fishing make Mazatlán a popular destination.

In its Centro Histórico district, you’ll find landmarks like the Teatro Ángela Peralta and the Immaculate Conception Basilica. In the modern district, Zona Dorada (Golden Zone), you will find plenty of great hotels, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

17. Ensenada

Ensenada is a beautiful port city on the Pacific coast of Mexico that offers plenty of things to do and see.

At its heart is the harbor and waterfront area with the Malecón promenade and the Riviera de Ensenada, a cultural center that was once a casino.

If you get tired of the beach, then look no further than the private wine tour to Guadalupe Valley from Ensenada. You’ll get to visit 4 carefully selected wineries, where you’ll enjoy guided tours and tastings of 15 different wines. Best of all, you’ll be able to see first-hand how the high-quality wines of this region are made.

Besides wine tasting, one of the best things to do in Ensenada is to see La Bufadora. This kind of huge blowhole can be found only in three places on earth and it’s a must-see for any visitor!

18. Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is a Mexican fishing village turned beach destination on the Pacific coast. It has a wealth of culture, natural attractions, and tropical beauty.

Although you will want to spend time on its best beaches – Playa Carrizalillo, Playa Zicatela, Playa Bacocho, Puerto Angelito, and Playa Marinero – there’s much more to do in Puerto Escondido, including seeing the bioluminescence at Manialtepec Lagoon and trying some authentic Oaxacan food.

While it is generally safe in Puerto Escondido, you should always follow common-sense rules and practice travel safety precautions like not swimming alone on beaches with strong currents and not wandering off the main streets at night.

19. Loreto

Loreto is one of Mexico’s hidden gems on the Baja Peninsula with peaceful charm and dazzling landscapes. The city starts to shut down around ten each night, making Loreto the place to go for a relaxing and rejuvenating trip.

Loreto is well known for its crystal clear waters and jagged rock formations that rise strikingly from the sea. The Islands of Loreto offer some of the best activities in all of Mexico including whale watching opportunities from January until March when humpback and blue whales migrate down the Baja Peninsula.

Indulge in fine dining at one of the elegant resort restaurants or wander through town for authentic Mexican dishes like torta sandwiches, sizzling tacos, or Chocolate Clams – only found in this region of Mexico.

20. Merida – Widely Recognized As Safest City in Mexico & Latin America

If you’re looking for the safest places to travel in Mexico, Merida should be on your list. The city has long been considered a safe haven in Mexico, and recent accolades from international magazines have only served to cement its reputation as one of the safest cities in Mexico and Latin America. As the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán, Merida is a bustling metropolis that is bursting with history.

From ancient temples to sacred cenotes, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this vibrant city. The city is known for its colonial architecture, heritage sites, and vibrant culture. Some of the most popular activities include exploring the ancient Mayan ruins, visiting one of the many museums, or taking a stroll through the parks. The city is also home to a variety of restaurants and bars, so there are plenty of options for dining and nightlife.

No matter what your interests are, you are sure to find something to do in Merida. And with an overall low risk of crime, you will be able to enjoy all that Merida has to offer without worry.

21. Valladolid

If you’re looking for a charming colonial city with a mix of Old World and New World vibes, Valladolid is definitely worth a visit.

Located in Yucatan state just a two-hour drive from Merida, Valladolid is one of the safest places to visit in Mexico. It is also a perfect stop to break the distance of driving from Cancun to Chichen Itza.

As you walk around the city, you’ll fall in love with the beautiful colonial-style buildings and haciendas that are now home to funky little cafes, open-air restaurants, and boutiques. Downtown Valladolid boasts numerous things to see, whether you’re a lover of art, history, or nature.

22. Oaxaca City

Oaxaca City is known for its colonial architecture, diverse indigenous cultures, traditional crafts, mezcal production, and surrounding mountain villages. The city’s vibrant culture and history are on display in its many museums and galleries, as well as in the annual “Day of the Dead” celebration, which draws visitors from all over the world.

There are many things to do and places to visit in Oaxaca City, including Centro Historico (Historic Downtown), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within downtown, you will find Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman and adjoining Oaxaca Botanical Garden, as well as Oaxaca Cathedral in the Zocalo (Main Square).

For those looking to explore beyond the city limits, there are plenty of sights to enjoy in the surrounding area. As you head outside of the historic downtown towards Monte Alban, you will find another UNESCO World Heritage Site and some amazing ruins.

After a long day of exploring, head over to any colorful market in Oaxaca City and try some tlayuda (pronounced tuh-lie-you-dah), a huge tortilla filled with beans, cheese, and vegetables that are often called an Oaxaca Mexican pizza.

Oaxaca City is generally safe, but it’s still important to have safety precautions in check. Avoid wandering to dark areas at night and don’t drink too much mezcal or tequila!

23. Mexico City

Mexico City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, and it’s one of my favorite places to visit in Mexico. While it usually isn’t the first place that comes to mind when people think of safe cities in Mexico, it is relatively safe if you stick to the downtown and tourist areas where police is constantly on patrol.

Mexico City offers a wealth of historical and cultural attractions, from the colonial splendor of the Centro Históricoto to the ancient ruins of Teotihuacán. Climbing the Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon in Teotihuacán was a scary but unforgettable experience for me!

If you want to take a break from hustle and bustle of the city, Las Grutas Tolantongo, a hidden gem located in Hidalgo, about three hours from Mexico City, is perfect for a day trip or two-day getaway. The hot springs have several pools to choose from as well as a river that you can float down. The fresh air and stunning scenery are sure to relax and rejuvenate you. In addition, there are a number of hiking trails and zip-line courses for you to enjoy.

And, of course, no visit to Mexico City would be complete without sampling the delicious food on offer. From street vendors selling churros to gourmet restaurants serving up traditional Mexican cuisine, there’s something to suit every taste.

While Mexico City is a tourist-friendly destination with plenty of police on patrol, I didn’t find it safe to drive there. The locals here tend to drive more recklessly than in most Mexican beach towns and coastal cities like Cancun and Tulum. As a result, I would suggest you hire a driver rather than renting a car in Mexico City.

24. Puebla City

If you’re looking for a safe and enjoyable place to travel in Mexico that’s rich in history and culture, then Puebla City should definitely be at the top of your list.

Just a two-hour drive from Mexico City, this charming colonial town is home to plenty of beautiful churches, such as the Puebla Cathedral and Iglesia Santo Domingo, the world’s largest pyramid – the Great Pyramid of Cholula, and some of the best food in the country. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Puebla City is sure to impress.

25. San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful, UNESCO World Heritage Site city in Guanajuato state. In recent years, it has become a popular destination for American retirees and is now known as one of the safest places to live and retire in Mexico.

The colonial-era city in Mexico’s central highlands is known for its baroque Spanish colonial churches and architecture, thriving arts scene, and cultural festivals. Its historic center contains one of the most beautiful churches that you will ever see – Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel – a neo-Gothic church with dramatic pink towers.

San Miguel de Allende is also a popular destination for foodies. As you may recall, The Top Chef hit show has filmed part of the finale of Season 12 in this beautiful city.

26. San Cristobal de las Casas

San Cristóbal de las Casas is a beautifully well-preserved colonial city located in Chiapas, right next to Oaxaca state in Mexico . It is rich in history and largely populated by indigenous people, which gives it a unique cultural flavor.

The city is full of life and adventure, with something to explore around every corner. The people of this region are warm and welcoming toward visitors, and you will always feel safe during your stay. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in culture or simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of a small town, San Cristóbal de las Casas is won’t disappoint.

27. Guadalajara

Guadalajara is a city in Mexico that’s well worth a visit. With its lovely colonial historic center, quaint neighborhoods, and kind locals, you’ll feel right at home in this charming city.

Guadalajara is a city you can easily explore on foot, as all the main sights are within close proximity of each other and a short walk from the Main Plaza (Plaza Guadalajara).

The city center is a beautiful colonial-style haven, with plenty of parks, plazas, and churches to explore. And, best of all, all the main sights are within walking distance of each other. Start your trip in the Main Plaza (Plaza Guadalajara) to explore Centro Historico, where you’ll find the stunning Guadalajara Cathedral and Hospicio Cabanas, one of the oldest and largest hospitals complexes in Americas that has been recognized as a World Heritage Site.

Afterward, explore the San Juan de Dios market for some souvenir shopping, and then finish up in the picturesque suburb of Tlaquepaque. With its convenient location and wealth of things to see and do, Guadalajara is the perfect destination for a hassle-free vacation.

28. Monterrey

Monterrey is a large city in northern Mexico that is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and natural parks. This means that visitors to Monterrey can enjoy all the excitement of a big city while also getting to appreciate tranquil natural areas.

One of the best things to do in Monterrey is visiting Parque Ecologico Chipinque. This park offers a stunning viewpoint that overlooks the entire city. Plus, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see black bears, coati, and many different bird species. Chipinque is just one of the many reasons why Monterrey is such a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

29. Santiago de Queretaro

Queretaro is one of Mexico’s most underrated travel destinations. The city is rich in art and history museums, colonial buildings, and an eclectic culinary scene. It’s also one of the country’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

While there are unsafe areas in Queretaro, just like in any other city, if you stick to Centro Historico (Historic Downtown) and don’t venture outside of the tourist area at night, you should be safe. Queretaro is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an authentic Mexican experience without the crowds of more popular tourist destinations.

Is Mexico a good & safe place to live?

The cost of living in Mexico is low, making it a very attractive option for expats. In recent years, the Mexican government has been working hard to improve security in the country, and you can see that being reflected in the lower crime rates in many regions.

However, living in Mexico is very different from visiting!

When you visit Mexico, you will most likely stay in tourist areas, which are generally well-protected and far away from serious crimes. Staying at a hotel or resort will give you another layer of protection, so as a visitor to Mexico, the chances of you becoming a victim of crime are very low.

Nevertheless, when you move to Mexico to live and stay in residential areas, you will soon realize that these areas do not have the same level of security measures as tourist spots and can become quite dangerous after dark. While it is possible to live safely in Mexico, you should be aware of the potential risks.

Many expats choose to live in or near tourist areas for increased safety. For example, a majority of the expat communities in Merida live in Centro Historico – the Historic Downtown Merida.

The Wrap-up: Safest Cities, Areas, Beaches, and States to Visit in Mexico

Mexico is a wonderful country with beautiful culture, delicious food, and friendly people. There are plenty of safe places in Mexico to explore and I hope this list of the safest cities and beach towns in Mexico has helped you find the perfect destination for your vacation.

However, you should always take precautions when traveling, just like everywhere else when you travel abroad, such as not wandering outside of the tourist areas at night and always keeping a good watch on your belongings!

Mexico Travel Resources

• 15 Best Spring Break Destinations in Mexico
• Cancun vs Playa del Carmen vs Cozumel: Which Vacation Spot is Best for You?
• The Ultimate Guide for Las Grutas Tolantongo – Hidalgo Mexico Hot Springs
• Is Cancun Safe? 21 Dumb Mistakes to Avoid in Cancun
• 37 Top Things to Do & Best Places to Visit in Cancun
• What to See & Do in Cozumel on A Day Trip!
• The Maldives of Mexico: Is Bacalar Lagoon worth visiting?
• The Ultimate Guide for A Magical Xcaret Wedding in Mexico!
• 10 Magical Cenotes/Underwater Caves in Mexico
• Isla Mujeres vs Cozumel: Which Island to Choose for Vacation?