MEXICO – Amazing Things To Do In Cancun, Mexico City & Playa Del Carmen!

Welcome to Mexico, baby, where the white sandy beaches and vibrant culture have you on hold. This North American country boasts an epic nightlife scene, Tequila-Tequila, tacos, tropical weather all year round, and a tourist-friendly hotel zone.

I know Mexico is on many travel bucket lists, and I’m unsurprised. I visited this fun destination solo and had the best time ever! In this blog, I’ll tell you things you need to know about Mexico and recommend the best locations to stay and things to do in Cancun, Mexico City and Playa del Carmen.

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Language: Spanish is the official language of Mexico and the primary language most of the population speaks. Numerous Indigenous languages are also spoken, and the government recognises them as national languages.

Currency: Although most places accept cards and Apple Pay, I always recommend keeping some petty change wherever you go, just in case. Mexico’s official currency is the Mexican Peso, abbreviated as MXN. The peso is further divided into smaller units, including centavos.

Welcome to Cancun – where the sun’s always shining and the vibes never quit! This Mexican paradise is all about turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and endless adventure. Whether you’re here to party in the Hotel Zone, chill at a beach club, or explore ancient Mayan ruins, Cancun brings the heat in every way possible. Oh, and let’s not forget the tacos – because yes, they are life-changing.

But Cancun isn’t just about beach lounging and nightlife (though it’s really good at both). You’ve got epic snorkelling spots, secret cenotes, and day trips to places like Isla Mujeres and Tulum that’ll make your Instagram pop. Whether travelling solo, with friends, or making new ones as you go, Cancun is the kind of trip you’ll never stop talking about.

Beautiful beach in Cancun. Credit: Jdross75 (Adobe)

Places To Stay In Cancun

Hotel Zone. Cancun’s main tourist strip and the place to be if you’re all about beach vibes, nightlife, and all-inclusive resorts is in the Hotel Zone. You’ll find tons of bars, clubs (like Coco Bongo), beach clubs, and restaurants—basically non-stop energy with views for days. It’s ideal if you want to party, relax, and never be far from the fun.

🩵 Recommends: InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort offers unreal 5-star vibes and unforgettable hotel views.

Downtown Cancun. For a more local and budget-friendly experience, Downtown Cancun offers authentic eats, cool markets, and a laid-back vibe. It’s perfect if you’re into exploring like a local, with easy access to buses, day trips, and hidden gems. Plus, it’s got awesome hostels and boutique stays!

🩵 Recommends: Everglades Suites is a cosy apartment in Downtown Cancun and offers clean, stylish rooms and great room rates!

Fun Things To Do In Cancun

Isla Mujeres Island

Isla Mujeres is a small tropical island off the coast of Mexico, only a 20-minute boat ride from Cancun. It is best known for its white sand beaches, diving and snorkelling opportunities, and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.

Isla Mujeres translates to ‘Island of Women’. Its laid-back approach and good vibes make it known as the ‘Magic Town’ of Mexico. The island is primarily car-free, so you’ll mainly walk, ride a bike, or hop on and off golf carts. It’s definitely worth a day trip while in Mexico!

I made some friends and went to Isla Mujeres

You won’t need to book tours for Isla Mujeres as the island is relatively small, unless you want to encounter dolphins, which I recommend booking in advance. Enjoy yourself on the white sand beach whilst indulging in yummy food, or spend your time on a catamaran in Isla Mujeres enjoying food, drinks, and snorkelling activities.

Nightlife In Cancun

Cancun’s nightlife is legendary and totally lives up to the hype! There’s something for every vibe, from wild beach parties and neon-lit clubs to chic rooftop bars and live music venues. The Hotel Zone is where most of the action happens—think iconic spots like Coco Bongo, where acrobats, DJS, and confetti explosions keep the energy sky-high all night long.

If partying ain’t your thing, you can opt for a once-in-a-lifetime moonlight snorkelling tour to see a diverse range of marine life. If you love the ocean, this could be the perfect way to spend your night.

Alternatively, the Xochimilco Park Dinner Cruise and Cirque du Soleil offer an epic evening out! Whether dancing ’til sunrise, sipping cocktails by the sea, or catching a fire show, Cancun promises a nightlife scene you won’t forget!

If you want to go on a solo trip but are unsure where to start, the Female Solo Travel Ebook covers everything you need to know for an epic solo adventure!

Mexico City is a total vibe! Packed with colour, culture, and crazy-good street food, it’s one of those places that hits you with energy the moment you arrive. Whether wandering through ancient Aztec ruins or snapping pics of street art in trendy neighbourhoods like Roma and Condesa, this city blends old-school charm with modern cool like no other.

Tacos are on every corner, music is in the air, and museums that even non-history lovers will appreciate—Mexico City is full of surprises. You can go from sipping spicy micheladas on a rooftop to boating through the floating gardens of Xochimilco all in one day. If you’re looking for a destination that’s equal parts fun, foodie heaven, and cultural playground, Mexico City should be at the top of your list!

Beautiful streets of Mexico City. Credit: JoseLuis (Abode)

Places To Stay In Mexico City

Roma Norte. This artsy, boho neighbourhood is one of the coolest places to stay in Mexico City. It’s packed with colourful street art, indie boutiques, trendy cafes, and a buzzing food scene—from taco joints to vegan brunch spots. Roma Norte is also super walkable, with leafy streets and historic buildings that give it a unique charm.

🩵 Recommends: Sheraton Mexico City Hotel offers a 5-star stay with stylish rooms, great amenities, and friendly staff.

Condesa. Right next to Roma, Condesa is slightly more laid-back but just as stylish. Think tree-lined avenues and chill parks like Parque Mexico. It’s perfect if you want a relaxing stay while still being close to the action. Condesa has an upscale but relaxed feel, making it great for morning strolls, casual wine bars, and sunset bike rides. It’s safe, central, and full of charm.

🩵 Recommends: Hotel Circulo Condesa offers a 4-star boujee stay with gorgeous interior and comfy big rooms.

Fun Things To Do In Mexico City

Nightlife in Mexico City

Mexico City’s nightlife is an absolute vibe—no matter what you’re into, the city delivers! Start your night sipping mezcal in a cosy rooftop bar with stunning skyline views, or grab tacos at a street stall before heading to a buzzing cantina. The neighbourhoods of Roma, Condesa, and Polanco are packed with cool bars, speakeasies, and live music joints that’ll keep you dancing or vibing all night long.

If you’re up to it, enjoy a thrilling evening of Lucha Libre with the Lucha Libre Experience. You’ll witness jaw-dropping acrobatics ringside while wearing your own Lucha Libre mask- you’ll even receive two complimentary tequila shots!

Alternatively, groove to the rhythm of the Garibaldi Show at the iconic Plaza Garibaldi, where lively dance performances light up the night. For a more relaxed vibe, opt for a Night Walking Tour with a guide to witness the stunning transformation of Mexico City after dark!

Welcome to Playa del Carmen — where the vibes are laid-back, the beaches are dreamy, and every day feels like a holiday! This coastal gem on Mexico’s Riviera Maya is all about turquoise water, white sand, and a perfect mix of chill and adventure. Whether tanning under palm trees, snorkelling with sea turtles, or strolling down the buzzing Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue), Playa is full of surprises and Insta-worthy moments.

But it’s not just about the beach in this destination. Playa del Carmen is a gateway to cenotes (natural swimming holes), ancient Mayan ruins, wild beach clubs, and super tasty tacos. Whether you’re here for the sun, the culture, or just a killer tan, Playa del Carmen has something for every kind of traveller, especially if you’re young, fun, and ready to explore.

Apartments in Playa del Carmen. Credit: Natalia (Adobe)

Places To Stay In Playa Del Carmen

El Centro (Downtown). El Centro is the heart of Playa del Carmen, with good vibes near the beach. Staying here places you steps away from Quinta Avenida, the city’s main spot lined with shops, restaurants, and nightlife. This area is ideal for travellers who want to be in the midst of the action and enjoy easy access to local attractions. ​

🩵 Recommends: El Taj Oceanfront Hotel offers a stunning condo-style hotel with charming, cosy rooms and stunning views.

Playacar. Just south of downtown lies Playacar, an exclusive gated community known for its serene atmosphere and upscale accommodations. This area features beautiful beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and a golf course, making it perfect for those seeking a more relaxed and luxurious experience.

🩵 Recommends: Royal Hideaway Playacar offers an unreal hotel with gorgeous infinity pools and the perfect relaxation vibe.

Fun Things To Do In Playa Del Carmen

Nightlife In Playa Del Carmen

The energy doesn’t slow down when the sun sets in Playa del Carmen—it kicks up a notch! The nightlife here is legendary, with something for every vibe. Whether you’re into sipping cocktails on a rooftop with ocean views or dancing barefoot in the sand under the stars, Playa del Carmen has got you covered.

Looking for some evening excitement in Playa del Carmen? Look no further! Join the mesmerising world of Cirque du Soleil’s ‘JOYA‘ show, where heritage and history come to life with fantastic storytelling. Sip on champagne or munch on popcorn as you enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience—trust me, it’s incredible!

Alternatively, if you’re craving adventure, hop on the Xplor Fuego trip for an adrenaline-packed night of ziplining, paddling, swimming, and driving. Whatever your style, Playa del Carmen knows how to show you a good time after dark.

That’s A Wrap!

From ancient ruins and tacos in Mexico City to turquoise waters in Cancun and the vibrant beach vibes of Playa del Carmen, Mexico seriously delivers! Each stop brings its own magic: history, flavour, nightlife, and a whole lot of sun-soaked adventure, with plenty of fun things to do and awesome places to stay.

Whether you’re dancing the night away, snorkelling in cenotes, or exploring colourful streets solo, Mexico is a dream destination for every kind of traveller. It’s a trip packed with culture, chill vibes, and memories that will last a lifetime—trust me, you’ll already be planning your return before you leave!

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to explore Cancun, Mexico City or Playa del Carmen for a cheeky vacation in the sun.