10 Cheap Places to Travel in Mexico | Best & Cheapest Vacation Spots

Hola! Are you looking for an affordable getaway with plenty of adventure? Fortunately, there are many cheap places to travel to in Mexico for an epic and inexpensive vacation.

Mexico is a budget-friendly destination with various activities and attractions that offer value for money. Here you can relax on serene shores, enjoy thrilling water sports, explore ancient ruins, and so much more.

In general, Mexico is quite an affordable country to visit. However, it can be a challenge to tick off all the items on your itinerary with minimal spending.

To get the best bang for your buck, here are a few cheap places to go in Mexico for an unforgettable trip.

Top 10 Cheap Places to Visit in Mexico

Whether you want to spend your time discovering the rich arts and culture or swimming in the glistening sea, there’s a suitable spot for every kind of budget traveler. Here are ten of the cheapest places in Mexico to vacation. 

1. Mexico City

Mexico City is filled to the brim with opportunities to explore the vibrant culture, history, and arts. A trip to this lively location is one of the best cheap vacations that Mexico offers. 

It boasts several famed museums and must-see attractions like the Chapultepec Castle, Templo Mayor Museum, and Palacio de Bellas Artes.

The capital city is also home to an array of eateries, where you can taste traditional Mexican cuisine, from delectable enchiladas to tasty tacos. 

And if you’re seeking more adventures, take a day trip to one of the most remarkable archaeological sites, the ancient city of Teotihuacan. 

2. Xilitla

If you’re looking to stay in a scenic location, Xilitla is one of the cheapest vacation spots in Mexico for an unwinding getaway. It is nestled amongst lush rainforests in San Luis Potosí in central Mexico.

Here you’ll come across cascading waterfalls, breathtaking views, and impressive landmarks.

A must-see attraction is the Las Pozas, an awe-inspiring collection of structures in tropical gardens.

Situated in the Sierra Gorda mountains, Las Pozas features spectacular concrete sculptures, bridges, and over 80 acres of natural waterfalls and turquoise pools.

Xilitla is a superb destination for an inexpensive Mexican vacation, and you’ll have many affordable accommodation options. You can find hotel rooms that cost less than $50 per night, such as Hotel CaféNaranja Xilitla and Hotel Sierra Linda.

3. Oaxaca City

Oaxaca City is one of the cheapest places to visit in Mexico to immerse yourself in the indigenous history and rich Mexican culture.

The city features breathtaking colonial architecture and fascinating museums that give visitors a glimpse of the past. 

It’s a haven for history buffs and fun for foodies who want to indulge in delicious street food. You’ll also find many affordable local artisan handicrafts for a souvenir or two.

Additionally, you can take a bike tour to explore the stunning street art in the city. 

While exploring Oaxaca, be sure to check out the Catedral Metropolitana de Oaxaca, Zona Arquelogica de Monte Alban, and the Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca. 

4. Playa Del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is an excellent pick if you want to relax in a coastal resort town with affordable prices. It is home to beautiful beaches, endless palm trees, and an array of restaurants and nightclubs. 

The city is a superb spot for adventure-seeking travelers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the dazzling coral reefs and the Caribbean Sea. Here you can enjoy fun water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and swimming. 

You’ll also have live music and opportunities to swim with sea turtles at certain beaches. A few must-visit shores include Mamitas Beach, Akumal Beach, and Playa Xcalacoco.

You can also splash around in one of the famous natural pools, Cenote Cristalino. 

5. Loreto

Nestled on the Baja California Peninsula, Loreto is one of the cheapest places to travel in Mexico for an exhilarating expedition. The city features captivating Mexican traditions and rich heritage with many interesting sites to explore. 

If you’re a history lover, head to the Sierra de la Giganta mountain range, where you’ll discover several trails leading to prehistoric cave paintings.

You’ll also find a number of serene beaches in the city with epic snorkeling and kayaking opportunities. 

Loreto offers a gateway to beautiful bays and uninhabited islands that are ideal for those looking to soak up the sun. A must-visit destination is the Bahia de Loreto National Park.

Here you can partake in several water activities as well as seasonal dolphin and whale watching. 

6. Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a superb spot to visit for those seeking affordable Mexican vacations along the Pacific shoreline. If you’re a beach bum, there are more than 20 miles of sandy shores to relax on. 

And for those eager anglers, the city is famous for its big-game fishing opportunities. You’ll also come across striking architecture and museums where you can learn more about the fascinating history and rich culture. 

Additionally, you can admire the awe-inspiring architecture and artisan crafts in nearby colonial towns, like Sierra Madre Village, on a day trip from Mazatlan.

There are also many kid-friendly activities in Mazatlan, such as animal shows at Acuario Mazatlan and waterslides at Parque Acuatico Mazagua.  

7. Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is one of the cheapest places in Mexico for a relaxing getaway on the Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca. Here you’ll come across several beaches with crystal clear and calm waters. 

Some of the popular beaches to visit include Playa Coral, Playa Carrizalillo, Playa Bacocho  and Puerto Angelito.

You can also take a boat tour and admire the Lagoon of Manialtepec as it glows with vibrant bioluminescent lights. 

There are several mid-size hotels and restaurants in the area. If you want cheaper accommodation, opt for a stay in one of the budget-friendly hostels like the Pipeline Hostel and Residencia Artistica.

8. Guanajuato

Guanajuato is a historically rich city that offers an affordable escape in Central Mexico. The town is famous for its silver mining history and striking colonial architecture.

Here you can stroll through the historic district and marvel at the colorful buildings. 

If you’re planning on exploring the winding lanes on foot, the Jardin de la Union plaza is a great place to start.

You’ll also find a number of notable museums, such as Diego Rivera’s House Museum and the Museum of the Mummies of Guanajuato. 

Additionally, there are many vibrant art galleries and famous attractions to explore. These include the Juarez Theater, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato, and Monumento Al Pipula. 

9. Sayulita

Located on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Sayulita offers a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of enjoyable activities. This affordable beach town is home to serene shores, and it’s a popular spot for water sports. 

You can enjoy horseback riding through the lush jungle trails to the beach. For more epic adventures, take a tour to Marietas Islands for exhilarating snorkeling experiences and whale watching. 

You’ll also come across vibrant reefs, giant turtles, and diverse tropical fish species.

Other fun activities to try in Sayulita include zip-lining, mountain biking through the jungle, and browsing at local markets for handmade crafts and goods.

10. Cholula

If you’re looking for an inexpensive getaway in Central Mexico, a trip to Cholula will not disappoint. It provides plenty of fun activities and a lively nightlife scene.

One of the most remarkable landmarks in the city is the Great Pyramid of Cholula, also called Tiachigualtepeti. 

This pre-Hispanic pyramid is the world’s largest pyramid by volume. After climbing this magnificent monument, you can head to one of the quirky cafes and bars for a quick bite or drink. 

Some of the popular nearby attractions include Francisco Pelaez Roldan Ethnobotanical Garden, Convento de San Gabriel Arcángel, and Museo de Sitio de Cholula.

Cholula is also a great stop if you’re taking a day trip from Mexico City, that’s just two hours away.

Tips for Exploring Cheap Vacation Spots in Mexico

When exploring Mexico on a budget, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind:

• The cheapest months to travel to Mexico are April, May, October, and November.
• Although there are cheaper rates in April, you may also experience crowds of spring breakers.
• Eating street food is a great way to save some cash while tasting authentic Mexican flavors.
• Make use of public transportation like buses rather than overpriced taxis.
• If you are traveling by taxi, it’s best to negotiate the price in advance. 
• As tap water is not safe to drink in many areas in Mexico, it’s beneficial to have a reusable water bottle on hand. 
• Traveling as a group is also a great way to see money by sharing expenses with your friends and family. For that, I recommend looking for the best Mexico resorts for a group.

Enjoy an Inexpensive Escape at Cheap Places in Mexico

Mexico boasts an array of affordable vacation destinations filled with fun activities, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Whether you’re looking to soak up some sun at a beach town or marvel at colonial architecture in historic cities, there are many suitable spots for an enjoyable adventure. 

Are you ready to have the cheapest vacation in Mexico? Tell your travel buddy and book those tickets – a thrilling trip awaits you. If you’re looking for an island escape, check out this guide on the best of Cozumel.