Top 5 Most Visited ‘Magical Towns’ in Mexico

The unique combination of a colonial legacy, stunning landscapes, and authentic gastronomy makes these destinations a favorite for tourists. The Magical Towns are the most captivating tourist proposal that Mexico offers to visitors. This is due to how formidable it is to stroll through its streets while admiring its beautiful architecture. After a day of sightseeing and touring, you will always find a charming terrace or balcony to enjoy authentic gastronomic proposals.

With the addition of eleven new sites at the end of 2020, Mexico houses a total of 132 Magical Towns. They offer an unparalleled travel proposal, which ranges from adventure tourism, beaches, extreme sports, cultural offer, etc. However, according to information from the Ministry of Tourism and Visit Mexico, some are the favorites of travelers. Here is a list of the five most visited Magical Towns in Mexico.

Izamal, Yucatan

Yellow and ochre tones stand out in all the constructions of Izamal. Three different eras merge the pre-Hispanic past, the colonial era, and current life in its streets. This Magical Town welcomes visitors who arrive at its main attraction, the Convent of San Antonio de Padua, and its enclosed courtyard, the largest in America. Expressions of Mayan culture are present in Izamal. This city is considered one of the oldest cities of this ancient civilization, even more than Chichen Itza and Uxmal. Throughout the city, there are seven pyramids and stunning buildings that are still preserved. This Magical Town is perfect for visiting on foot, where you’ll discover the mix of cultures that converge, highlighting its Mayan heritage, the colonial past, and the tranquility of the present.

San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas

In this colonial town, it seems that time stopped at some point in history. Therefore, its architecture has been well preserved, almost intact, with a baroque and neoclassical style. Its flowery balconies and its beautiful Historical Center have made more than one tourist fall in love with this place. Its cool climate invites you to enjoy a coffee grown in the region while enjoying the cosmopolitan air and indigenous legacy at the same time. This amazing mountain town is also famous for its local art scene, vibrant local artisan markets. Visit its Cathedral and majestic temples, which are part of its history and heritage. If you are craving a cultural experience filled with tradition, nature, art, and color, book a trip to San Cristobal de las Casas; we promise you’ll find it hard to leave.

Peña de Bernal, Queretaro

Peña de Bernal stands out among the most charming Magical Towns, located near the wine region and the gateway to the Sierra Gorda. The Peña de Bernal is its most important icon. This towering monolith is the third tallest in the world and was designated a Protected Natural Area. You can trek about 80% of the way toward the top of the monolith without equipment, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the town, surrounding mountains, and the countryside below. In addition to beautiful landscapes, it has a wide range of traditional gastronomy and local crafts.

Bacalar, Quintana Roo

Bacalar is one of the hidden gems of the Caribbean Sea. Its main point of interest is its magnificent seven-color lagoon. With a variety of shades of blue, you can admire everything from crystal clear to turquoise. You can enjoy the calm waters of this lagoon during the day and stay for a breathtaking sunset. You can visit its beautiful cenotes; Cenote Azul is one of the deepest along the Riviera Maya, and here you can explore by kayak, swim, or relax. If you love a good trip into the past and the jungle, the ruins of the Mayan city of Kohunlich are an ideal option.

Huasca de Ocampo, Hidalgo

The first of the Magical Towns to obtain this distinction was a picturesque refuge in the country’s center, which attracted visitors with its basaltic prisms. These make up one of the most beautiful natural spaces in all of Mexico. This out-of-this-world destination, along with its historical sites, cobbled streets, and romantic walks, makes it an irresistible destination.

These five Magical Towns pulsate with their travel proposal and a vibrant legacy that captivates you by immersing yourself in their unique atmospheres.