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20 Safest Cities in Mexico To Visit Or Live In

Safe cities in Mexico

Mexico is often mislabeled as a dangerous place where you shouldn’t travel, or at the very least, you shouldn’t leave your resort. While Mexico has plenty of amazing resorts indeed, the belief spread among people who have never been couldn’t be further from the truth.

Based on my personal experience living in Mexico for many years and also later in life with my family with small kids, I can honestly say that generally, Mexico is a safe destination if you use common sense and educate yourself about the particular region you are visiting

Just like anywhere else, you need to be aware of some common scams in Mexico the same way you need to take care of your belongings when visiting Italy, Paris, or New York, and you’ll be fine.

Mexico can be an amazing place to visit or move to. It has beautiful bustling cities, many pueblos magicos, relaxing beaches, and unique things to see.

Matthew Karsten

Hi, I’m Matthew Karsten

I’ve been traveling the world for 10+ years as a professional photographer & writer. I hope you enjoy my Merida travel tips! If you find them useful, using my affiliate links to book something will give me a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Travel Advisories for Mexico

Millions of tourists visit Mexico every year without any incident. Touristy places in Mexico are often safer than some of the world’s capital cities where many people travel without even blinking an eye.

In fact, to give you some actual stats… the crime is lower than in the US in most categories (and the one it’s higher is obviously based on cartel activity that generally doesn’t affect tourists).

Keep in mind that the crime advisories apply on a state level, never an entire country. For example, just because Sinaloa or Colima has a travel advisory, doesn’t mean that Guanajuato will be unsafe.

And even if Guanajuato as a state had a level of “reconsider travel” it doesn’t mean that the actual touristy city of San Miguel de Allende isn’t safe to visit (in fact, it’s the safest city in Mexico).

Safest Cities In Mexico For 2025

1. Merida

Merida, Mexico

Known for its colonial charm, Merida is a vibrant city filled with colorful streets and lively markets nestled in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Here you can stroll through its charming streets lined with pastel-colored colonial buildings, visit the iconic Paseo de Montejo, explore Mayan ruins, and immerse yourself in the local Mayan heritage. 

2. San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site full of cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and a thriving arts scene. 

If you’re looking to enjoy cultural festivals, visit the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, and experience an all-around relaxed vibe, this is the city for you. 

3. Guanajuato

Nestled in the mountains, Guanajuato is a historic mining town famed for its underground tunnels and colorful houses


The friendly locals will make you feel right at home as you wander the narrow alleyways like the Callejón del Beso, people-watch in colorful plazas, explore the Alhondiga de Granaditas museum, and get involved in the iconic Cervantino Festival that lights up the city every fall. 

4. Queretaro

Queretaro is a UNESCO-listed colonial gem on my list and an equally great place to visit in Mexico. 

Among the well-preserved history, here you can see the Aqueduct of Queretaro, enjoy a stroll in the beautiful Jardin Zenea, visit Teatro de la Republica for a performance, and simply relax in the peaceful atmosphere of the city.

5. Guadalajara

Mexico’s second-largest city, Guadalajara is the vibrant heart of Jalisco and offers a perfect blend of traditional Mexican culture and modern urban energy.  

If you’re a tequila fanatic you’ve just found your perfect place as the region surrounding Guadalajara is famed as being the birthplace of this delicious drink. Add a mariachi band (also from this region) in the background and you’ve got the perfect Mexican evening!

6. Puerto Vallarta

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Madre Mountains, Puerto Vallarta is full of stunning beaches and boasts bustling nightlife and a vibrant arts scene. So if you’re looking for a safe Mexican city that offers a little bit of everything, Puerto Vallarta is for you!

Wander through the charming Zona Romantica, relax on Playa Los Muertos, and explore the Malecon boardwalk before hitting the town for a fun-filled evening. 

7. Sayulita

Sayulita is a bohemian surf haven on the Riviera Nayarit known for its surf culture, colorful streets, and laid-back vibe.

When you’re not in the ocean catching waves there are plenty of colorful streets, cute cafes, and a great local art scene to get involved in if you choose. 

8. La Paz

Located on the coast of the Sea of Cortez, La Paz is another paradise for ocean lovers who prefer more tranquil waters

If you’re looking for a safe place to lie on pristine white sand beaches, take a dip in shallow turquoise waters, and indulge in some of the best Mexican foods, La Paz has all that and more. 

Make sure to visit Espiritu Santo Island, take a walk along the beachfront promenade, and check out Balandra Beach!

9. Ensenada

A coastal city with a thriving wine region, Ensenada offers a unique blend of culture and natural beauty for visitors to enjoy. 

This beautiful coastal escape is perfect for anyone looking to sip wine, indulge in delicious local seafood, and visit a handful of incredible natural attractions like the famous La Bufadora.

10. San Cristobal de las Casas

Nestled in the Chiapas highlands, San Cristobal de las Casas will captivate you with its interesting mix of indigenous culture and colonial architecture

San Cristobal de las Casas is a great choice for anyone looking to delve deeper into the history and traditions of traditional cultures of the area with plenty of museums and sites to explore. 

Aside from learning, there are also plenty of vibrant markets, charming streets, and delicious food to keep you occupied!

11. Puebla

Foodies flock to Puebla to enjoy some of the country’s best cuisine surrounded by intricate and well-preserved colonial architecture.

There’s plenty to do in Puebla so get ready to explore the historic center with its ornate churches, indulge in mole poblano, and experience the welcoming atmosphere that adds to its safety.

12. Mexico City

Everyone has a different opinion of the bustling capital of Mexico, Mexico City. While it’s true that there are some places to avoid, for the most part, this bustling city is a great choice for visitors and digital nomads alike if you pick the right place to stay. 

With a dynamic mix of history, art, and contemporary flair there is an endless list of things to do in Mexico City such as the iconic Zocalo, world-class museums like the Frida Kahlo Museum, and colorful neighborhoods like Xochimilco.

13. Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a cultural hub known for its indigenous traditions and vibrant festivals making it ideal for anyone who wants to experience some of the more local activities in a fun and safe environment. 

Make sure to wander through the historic center, immerse yourself in the Day of the Dead celebrations, and feel the warmth of the community of this special city. 

14. Huatulco

With its nine pristine bays, Huatulco offers a tropical paradise along the Pacific coast and features one of the best beaches in Mexico!

Here you can not only enjoy secluded beaches but the Huatulco National Park is ready and waiting for you to explore its beautiful nature with a focus on sustainable ecotourism

15. Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen Neighborhoods
The North End Neighborhood

Another favorite amongst digital nomads, Playa del Carmen is a vibrant city with something for everyone located on the Riviera Maya. 

Combining stunning beaches with a lively atmosphere, delicious restaurants, plenty of ancient Mayan ruins, cenotes, and a laid-back yet safe vibe, this coastal haven is perfect for anyone looking to try a diverse range of activities

I also think that Playa del Carmen is a particularly great place to bring your whole family, kids included! 

16. Cancun

Famous for its white-sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, there’s never really a bad time to visit Cancun! (But I highly recommend July and August as the best time to go to Cancun.)

And even though there are countless luxury all-inclusive resorts for you to enjoy here, make sure to take some time to also visit the archaeological site of Chichen Itza, go swimming with whale sharks, and snorkel in the bluest waters you’ve ever seen! 

17. Cozumel

Cozumel is a diver’s paradise that boasts crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs such as the stunning Palancar Reef. 

But even if you’re not someone who wants to spend all their time underwater, there’s still plenty of things to do in Cozumel such as some of the best ancient Mayan ruins to explore, beautiful beaches, and picturesque spots to watch the sunset. 

18. Isla Holbox

This hidden gem on the Yucatan Peninsula offers some of the most beautiful pristine beaches in Mexico and a great laid-back vibe. 

While there’s plenty to keep you busy in Isla Holbox for a full trip, it also makes a great day trip from Playa del Carmen if you are short on time. 

Experience the natural beauty of Yum Balam Reserve, encounter whale sharks, and savor the serene atmosphere of this eco-friendly island retreat. 

19. Tulum

With its bohemian charm, Tulum seamlessly combines ancient ruins with picturesque beaches making it another favorite amongst all types of travelers from families to foodies. 

During the day you can spend countless hours exploring the archaeological site overlooking the Caribbean Sea, unwinding in eco-friendly resorts, sampling some of the city’s best restaurants, and swimming in divine cenotes surrounding this coastal paradise. But before the sun goes down, make sure to stop by one of the famous Tulum beach clubs for an epic night!

20. Valladolid

Valladolid Mexico

Valladolid is a colonial treasure full of colorful streets and historical landmarks with a fun and welcoming atmosphere that will instantly make you feel at home. 

If you’ve seen any of Mexico’s stunning cenotes on Instagram you’ve probably already seen pictures of Valladolid as it is home to a collection of incredible cenotes for you to visit including the unbeatable Cenote Zaci. 

While the famous cenotes do bring many tourists to the area each year, some may say that the true pull of this beautiful city is its authentic Mexican nature so make sure to explore the town and get to know some locals while you’re here!

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Travel Planning Resources For Mexico
Packing Guide
Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip.
Book Your Flight
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Rent A Car
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Cheap Accommodation
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Protect Your Trip
Don’t forget travel insurance! Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read why you should always carry travel insurance.
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