Mexico consistently ranks among the most popular travel locations among T+L readers. It was named T+L’s Destination of the Year in 2022 for its captivating blend of history, breathtaking natural scenery, thriving cultural environment, and exceptional food. In addition, more tourists, including T+L readers, are focusing their itineraries on Mexico’s dazzling cities, from the bustling metropolises of Mexico City and Guadalajara to pocket-sized jewels like San Miguel de Allende. The country’s powdery beaches and charming villages continue to draw R&R-loving crowds.
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San Miguel de Allende, a lovely village in Mexico, took second place on this year’s list after once again winning the hearts of T+L readers. Its rich artisan traditions and well-preserved buildings won praise from tourists. It’s like going back in time, one reader remarked. Others praised its pleasant environment and walkability. Although San Miguel de Allende is a smaller city than some of the others on this list, such as Mexico City at No. 3 and Guadalajara at No. 5, T+L readers recommended fellow travellers to take their time and enjoy the city’s attractions. One reader advised taking a week off during La Calaca, the festival that runs concurrently with Festival Da de Muertos (Day of the Dead) at the end of October.
Respondents also gushed over Mérida (No. 4), which is a gateway to some of the most famous Maya archaeological sites in the nation, including Chichén Itzá, which is only 75 miles away. One reader said that although the city, which serves as the capital of Yucatan, seems like an “undiscovered jewel,” while another waxed lyrical over the town’s evocative plazas and rich cultural heritage: “The architecture is stunning, it’s so colourful, and the city is steeped in tradition. I urge everyone to try it.
It was difficult for T+L readers to pick out just one thing they like about Mexico City, where world-class museums, pilgrimage-worthy gastronomy, vibrant neighbourhoods and marketplaces, and a growing modern fashion scene all together for an amazing vacation. One reader said, “It’s one of the most amazing cities in the world,” and another added, “It offers a long list of things to see and do that will keep you coming back for more.”
Guadalajara, Mexico’s seventh-largest city, which delivers exactly as much excitement as CDMX with less crowds and less congestion, takes the No. 5 slot on the list. Who came in first place on the list this year? Find out by reading on.
The Complete List is Here:Â
1. The city of Oaxaca
- Score for readers: 93.53
2. Guanajuato’s San Miguel de Allende
- Score for readers: 91.19
3. Mexico City
- Awarded the WBA Hall of Fame. Score for readers: 90.55
4. Mérida, Mexico
- Score for readers: 88.81
5. Jalisco’s Guadalajara
- Grade for Reader: 88.13
This city top the list:
Oaxaca
One reader exclaimed, “Hands down one of the coolest cities in the whole world,” regarding this ancient hamlet in southern Mexico. Oaxaca, which is regarded as one of Mexico’s cultural centres, is home to a bewildering array of ancient sites, vibrant street markets, breathtaking churches, galleries of modern art, eye-catching street art, and lovely plazas. It’s little wonder the town has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As one T+L reader put it, it’s also a “foodie’s mecca,” showcasing local flavours like spicy chocolate, molé negro, crunchy tlayudas, and masa-based antojitos. In addition to having renowned street cuisine, Oaxaca is also home to some of the most renowned restaurants in the world, including Criollo by Enrique Olvera and Casa Oaxaca by Alejandro Ruiz. The hotel industry has also become more competitive in recent years, with entrants like Escondido Oaxaca and Hotel Sin Nombre completing the city’s elite lodging options. One commenter said, “This place is incredible.
