Epic Overview of ALL 35 UNESCO sites in Mexico

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Uncover all 35 UNESCO Sites in Mexico that make the country a treasure trove. Dive into our post to explore the magic of these sites!

Calakmul detail of Unesco site in Mexico

It may have been the mouth-watering tacos, glorious white-sand beaches and spontaneous street parties that enticed you here. But make sure you leave enough time on your itinerary to visit the 35 UNESCO sites in Mexico… or at least a handful of them. 

This diverse country boasts a remarkable array of rich and varied sites, each with its own captivating story to tell, spanning from ancient civilizations to stunning natural landscapes. 

Not everyone has endless time to spare, so ticking off all the world heritage sites in Mexico might be a bit of a stretch. To help you cherry-pick your favorites, our guide covers all 35 sites, giving you just enough information to make your choice but leaving you yearning to learn more. 

Cultural UNESCO Sites in Mexico 

Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen-Itza

Chichen-Itza UNESCO pyramids

Let’s start with one of the most well-known UNESCO sites in Mexico and the entire world. Chichen Itza holds a spot on the Seven Wonders of the World list due to architectural brilliance and historical importance.

The Mayans showcased pure genius in creating Chichen Itza, building things that still baffle us today. The complex comprises 26 structures, with El Castillo being the star of the show — that’s the pyramid you’ve probably seen pictures of.

Chichen Itza is a popular 1-2 day trip from Cancun. 

Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan

hot air balloon overUNESCO site in Mexico Teotihuacan

Next up is another ancient city that some would argue is better than Chichen Itza. 

Teotihuacan, located just under an hour from Mexico City, was established in 100 BC and became one of the most influential pre-Columbian civilizations in the Americas. 

Their power and capability is clear to see. Their pyramids, apartment compounds, plazas and murals will leave you speechless, especially the Pyramid of the Sun, one of the largest pyramids in the world. 

Pro tip: Take a sunrise hot air balloon ride for a birds-eye view of the pyramids. 

Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco

boat in Xochimilco canals of Mexico City

Mexico City is different from what most people expect it to be like. It will exceed your expectations, and the historic center plays a big part. 

Built in the 16th century on the ruins of the old Aztec capital, the Spanish created what we know today as Mexico City. The historic center rightfully earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage list with its grand architecture, Aztec temples, the largest cathedral in Latin America and more buildings that will make you swoon. 

Mexico City’s historic center shares its spot on the list with Xochimilco, a network of canals and artificial islands built by the Aztecs.

Luis Barragán House and Studio

yellow walls of Luis Barragán architect

Luis Barragán was one of Mexico’s most famous architects, massively influencing modern architecture and design. 

The UNESCO World Heritage site in Mexico City was actually his house and studio, which, of course, are also architectural masterpieces. The house is brought to life with vibrant colors, geometric forms, and clever use of natural light.

Central University City Campus of the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

unique building UNESCO University City Campus in Mexico City

Another UNESCO World Heritage site in Mexico City to tick off! The University City campus was constructed in the 1950s by more than 60 architects, engineers, and artists. 

It was added to the UNESCO list due to its harmonious fusion of architectural styles, including modernism and Mexican muralism. Once you see it, you’ll understand why! 

Check out the Central Library, adorned with murals by David Alfaro Siquieros and Juan O’Gorman.

Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán

Monte Albán UNESCO site in Mexico

Oaxaca City is a vibrant hub for all things food, culture and history. UNESCO decided that future generations should experience this brilliance, too, so it joined the list! 

The picturesque colonial city boasts a well-preserved historic center with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings and many churches, museums and markets. 

The Archaeological Site of Monte Albán is a popular day trip from Oaxaca City. Visitors are keen to witness its terraces, dams, canals, pyramids and artificial mounds of Monte Albán, which were literally carved out of the mountain. 

Inhabited for 1,500 years, this spot has a lot of stories to tell!

Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and Mitla in the Central Valley of Oaxaca

UNESCO Caves of Yagul and Mitla in the Central Valley of Oaxaca

This place is bursting with fascinating history! Not too far from Oaxaca City are a series of prehistoric caves, archaeological ruins and rock shelters.

Inside, you’ll find mesmerizing rock art, and outside, panoramic views. 

Fun fact: They found one of the earliest pieces of evidence of domesticated maize here. 

Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque

National Park of Palenque ruins a UNESCO site in Mexico

Quoted as some of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico, Palenque’s backdrop makes this historic site even more remarkable and breathtaking. 

Everywhere you look, the dense jungle is brimming with life, hiding a whole other world around the ruins. You might even spot a howler monkey swinging through the treetops.

The best part is that it’s not as popular as some of the other ruins on this list. 

Historic Town of Guanajuato and Adjacent Mines

Guanajuato city landscape a UNESCO site in Mexico

Guanajuato is a colorful (big emphasis on colorful) colonial city that’s often left off visitors’ Mexican itinerary…and that’s exactly why it should be on yours. 

Once the world leader in silver extraction, this small mining town grew into a wealthy city, now evident in the grand architecture that lines the streets. 

The fun continues underground, where visitors can still explore some old mining tunnels.

Archaeological Zone of Paquimé, Casas Grandes

Paquimé, Casas Grandes UNESCO site

If you visit the state of Chihuahua, Casas Grandes is a must-visit! This ancient settlement was home to the Mogollon people, Native Americans from Southern New Mexico and Arizona.

Estimated to showcase the remains of nearly 2,000 adobe rooms, it’s a fascinating glimpse into the homes and life of another civilization in the area. It’s completely different from Aztec and Mayan ruins, so it’s worth visiting even if you feel “over-ruined.”

Hospicio Cabañas

Hospicio Cabañas building UNESCO

One of the newer sites on the list, the Hospicio Cabañas in Guadalajara, was only founded in the 19th century and created as a refuge for orphans, the elderly, and the poor. 

It wasn’t the building’s purpose that helped it make the UNESCO World Heritage list; it was more the uniqueness of the architecture and the 57 magnificent frescos painted by José Clemente Orozco, one of the greatest Mexican muralists of the time. 

The site is now a fascinating cultural center and museum.

Historic Center of Puebla

colorful tiles on the buildings in Puebla

Want to step back in time to the Spanish colonial period? The historic center of Puebla is the perfect place to do that. 

It’s one of the most well-preserved colonial cities boasting colorful buildings that instantly put a smile on your face — they’re that vibrant! The streets are works of art with ornate facades, grand churches and Talavera-tile details. 

Puebla is also the birthplace of traditional Mexican dishes like mole poblano and chiles en nogada. Make sure to give them a try!

Camino Real de Tierra Adentro

part of the Camino Real de Tierra Adentro UNESCO trail in Mexico

The Camino Real de Tierra Adentro might be one of the longest UNESCO World Heritage sites. Also known as the Silver Route, it’s a 2,600 km route that stretches from Mexico City to Texas and New Mexico in the U.S. 

The route was used for around 300 years and played a crucial role in transporting goods, people, and information. 

You’ll also find five more UNESCO World Heritage sites along the route.

Protective town of San Miguel and the Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco

San Miguel de Allende landscape

You can tick two UNESCO sites in Mexico off within a short space of time in the state of Guanajuato.

The town of San Miguel de Allende and the Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco, found just outside the town, offer a unique experience where history, culture, and faith converge. 

Both are brilliant examples of Baroque architecture and are home to stunning oil paintings by Rodriguez Juárez and mural paintings by Miguel Antonio Martínez de Pocasangre. 

Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro

Queretaro aqueduct UNESCO site

As the name suggests, a lot of historic monuments can be found in Santiago de Querétaro, including the Government Palace, the former Convent of Santa Rosa de Viterbo and one of the most iconic, the Aqueduct of Querétaro.

Sit in the Jardin Zenea, a picturesque square surrounded by monuments, and imagine what it must have felt like to be at the heart of the Mexican War of Independence. 

Historic Center of Morelia

historic building in Morelia a UNESCO site

Feel like getting off Mexico’s tourist path? Head to the city of Morelia… especially if you’re a history-lover. 

Morelia was the birthplace of several important figures who played key roles in Mexico’s history and independence. 

Built by the Spanish in the 16th century, the city still boasts the same layout. With over 200 historic buildings still standing, the streets are brimming with stories waiting to be heard. 

Agave Landscape and Ancient Industrial Facilities of Tequila

blue agave fields for tequila

When you think of Mexico, tacos and tequila probably come to mind. Trying some of Mexico’s liquid gold is just part of the cultural experience. 

Tequila has played such an important role that 34,658 hectares of blue agave landscape have been made a UNESCO site in Mexico. 

Did you know that blue agave has been used to make fermented drinks and cloth for at least 2,000 years?

Within the town of Tequila UNESCO site are working distilleries where you can learn how tequila is made and, of course, have a taste!

Rock Paintings of the Sierra de San Francisco 

mountains of the Sierra de San Francisco, Mexico

The incredible Rock Paintings of the Sierra de San Francisco can be found in the remote and rugged canyons of the Baja California Peninsula.

Created by various indigenous groups, these well-preserved paintings date back over a thousand years! Seeing these paintings of animals, human figures, and rituals is guaranteed to leave you speechless.

El Tajin, Pre-Hispanic City

UNESCO site in Mexico El Tajin, Pre-Hispanic City

El Tajin is one of the lesser visited ruins, but by no means less remarkable. Many tourists don’t venture into this area in Veracruz, but the ruins might be enough to entice you. 

It’s not just fewer tourists that make El Tajin different. Its intricate carvings and reliefs are unique and astonishing. You can even learn about their ballgame rituals from these reliefs.

The ancient towering pyramids, ball courts, temples, and plazas are an eye-opening experience. 

Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro

Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro

Built in the interior of Mexico during the last phase of the conversion to Christianity, these 18th-century buildings are a beautiful blend of Spanish and indigenous styles. 

There are five Franciscan missions to visit. 

Historic Fortified Town of Campeche

historic UNESCO building in Campeche

Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, Campeche’s proximity to some of Mexico’s most popular destinations is slowly putting it on the map. 

However, if you want to escape the throngs of tourists, the colorful streets of Campeche are a wonderful place to spend a few days. Once a critical Spanish port during the 17th and 18th centuries, the town is famous for its well-preserved city walls, bastions, forts and defensive towers used to keep pirates out. 

Pre-Hispanic Town of Uxmal

Uxmal pyramid in Mexico

Also located in Yucatan and only two hours from Campeche, Uxmal was founded in 700 AD and was home to over 25,000 inhabitants. 

It was a powerful city that slipped under the radar of most tourists. 

Don’t make the same mistake, or you’ll miss the Pyramid of the Magician. It stands out as a masterpiece of Maya architecture, featuring elliptical layers that set it apart from other pyramids.

Archaeological Monuments Zone of Xochicalco

Zone of Xochicalco UNESCO sites in mexico

The final archaeological zone on this list is Xochicalco. 

Once home to 10,000 inhabitants, it’s a well-preserved example of a fortified political, religious and commercial center. 

Being off the beaten track, these ruins offer a more unique and peaceful experience than the more popular ones like Chichen Itza. Make sure to check out the astronomical observatory. It’s hard to believe it was built hundreds of years ago. 

Historic Monuments Zone of Tlacotalpan

Zone of Tlacotalpan UNESCO pink building in Mexico

Sitting on the banks of the Papaloapan River in Veracruz, Tlacotalpan was added to the list of UNESCO sites in Mexico due to its well-preserved colonial architecture.

The houses are colorful, the culture is rich, and the people diverse. The town boasts a unique blend of Spanish and Afro-Caribbean influences in its architecture, food and music.  

Earliest 16th-Century Monasteries on the Slopes of Popocatepetl

ancient monasteries in Mexico

This is a group of 15 components within one site is located across the states of Morelos, Puebla, and Tlaxcala. The monasteries were built when the first missionaries (the Franciscans, Dominicans and Augustinians) came and converted the local indigenous people to Christianity in the early 16th century.  

Historic Centre of Zacatecas

Historic Centre of Zacatecas

Zacatecas was discovered in 1546 after silver was found. The town, built into the steep slopes of a valley, are astounding. With many ancient buildings built around the town plaza.

Notable for its fusion of Baroque facades with European and indigenous decorative elements.

Aqueduct of Padre Tembleque Hydraulic System

Aqueduct of Padre Tembleque in Mexico

This remarkable hydraulic system is celebrated for its innovative engineering, which enabled the transportation of water through 48 km of challenging canyons, valleys, and plains during the 16th century.

The aqueduct, constructed between 1554 and 1572, was the brainchild of the Spanish Friar Francisco de Tembleque and is a truly remarkable sight. 

Natural UNESCO sites in Mexico

Archipiélago de Revillagigedo

Archipiélago de Revillagigedo volanic crater island in Mexico

Calling all nature lovers! These four remote volcanic islands off the west coast of Mexico are home to unique ecosystems and remarkable marine life. 

Visitors are limited in number, but if you’re lucky enough to go diving or snorkeling here, there’s a possibility of spotting sharks, manta rays, humpback whales, and huge schools of fish. 

El Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve

landscape of El Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve in Mexico

This natural UNESCO site in Mexico is a large and relatively undisturbed protected area that boasts two distinct landscapes. 

To the east, you’ll find the Pinacate volcanic shield, a dormant volcano that has created incredible geological formations such as craters, lava flows, and cinder cones. 

To the west is the Gran Altar Desert, North America’s largest field of active sand dunes. Both are home to unique plants and wildlife. 

Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California

coastal cliffs in the Gulf of California

Encompassed within this UNESCO site are 244 islands, islets and coastal areas in the Gulf of California. This northeastern Mexico region is home to an exceptional variety of marine animals and species only found in this area. 

Grab a snorkel and duck underwater, as it’s one of the best snorkeling and diving locations in the region. 

Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve

Butterflies flying in the bioshpere reserve in Mexico

The great Monarch butterfly migration from Canada and America to the mountains of central Mexico is something everyone should add to their bucket list! 

The sight of millions of monarch butterflies making their way south to escape the winter is guaranteed to give you goosebumps.

The reserve was added to the world heritage list to protect the butterfly’s fragile forest habitat. 

Sian Ka’an

coastal waters of Sian Ka'an, Mexico

Sian Ka’an is a great Mexican UNESCO site to visit if you’re staying in the Yucatan peninsula. The reserve is home to a diverse range of habitats, such as tropical forests, mangroves, wetlands and the second-largest coral reef system in the world. 

If you want to see some of Mexico’s best ecosystems, this is somewhere that should be at the top of your list. 

Whale Sanctuary of El Vizcaino

Located on the western coast of the Baja California Peninsula, the site is renowned for its vital role in protecting grey whales and their breeding grounds.

This sanctuary encompasses several lagoons along the Pacific coast, where grey whales migrate annually to give birth and nurse their calves.

Seeing these graceful creatures is a must if you’re in this area between February and May. 

Mixed UNESCO sites in Mexico 

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul

Calakmul ruins in the jungle

Love history and nature? 

This ancient Maya city is perfect for you. 

It combines the mystical ruins of Calakmul with the pristine tropical forests of Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. Hidden by the foliage are various plants and animals, such as jaguars and pumas. 

If you want to visit one of the most powerful Maya cities, Calakmul is the place to go. 

Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley

Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley landscape with staircase

Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley is a beautiful example of how humans can adapt to a challenging climate. 

The area is recognized for its remarkable biodiversity, unique arid landscapes, and the cultural significance of its indigenous communities. 

Head here to explore the unique landscapes and witness the traditional agricultural techniques still used by the local communities today. 

Weather in Mexico 

UNESCO site in Mexico  Guanujuato

The best time to visit Mexico is between December and April. Although technically, Mexico’s winter months, this time offers splendidly sunny days with ideal temperatures ranging from 24°C (75°F) to 28°C (82°F).

The sea temperatures hold steady at a delightful 26°C (79°F), making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Mexico’s rainy season runs from May to September, and while traveling is still feasible during these months, be prepared for brief yet intense rainfall.

You might consider avoiding September and October when the risk of hurricanes is higher.

Packing essentials for exploring UNESCO sites in Mexico 

UNESCO site in Mexico pyramids

Whether you’re visiting cultural, natural, or mixed UNESCO sites in Mexico, you’ll want comfortable shoes. There’s nothing worse than getting halfway around the site and getting a blister or achy feet. 

Other things to consider include snacks, water, suncream, a hat, sunglasses and a fully charged phone… you’re going to take a lot of photos. 

Map of Mexico’s UNESCO sites

You’ll find several of Mexico’s UNESCO sites near popular tourist destinations like CancunMexico City and Palenque. If you’re up for the adventure, head to some off-the-beaten-track and less popular sites dotted throughout the country.

How to get to UNESCO sites in Mexico

UNESCO site in mexico town with colorful buildings

Public transport in Mexico is relatively efficient, affordable and easy to use. To get to many UNESCO sites you’ll be able to take a public bus or even the metro if you’re in Mexico City

If public transport is not available or you want to enjoy a bit more comfort, you can grab a taxi, hire a private driver, or join a day tour.

Want to know more about getting around Mexico? Read our in-depth Mexico transportation guide. 

Which UNESCO site in Mexico are you going to visit first?

UNESCO site in mexico ruin closeup

With 35 UNESCO sites in Mexico to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. Either pick the sites you desperately want to visit and plan your trip around them, or plan your route and see which ones are nearby. 

Time travel may not be possible yet, but wandering around these ancient cities gives you a pretty good idea of what life was like. 

FAQ 

How many UNESCO sites are in Mexico? 

There are 35 UNESCO sites in Mexico.

What is the most famous historical site in Mexico?

Chichen Itza receives around two million visitors every year!

What is Mexico famously known for?

Many things, but tacos, tequila, ancient ruins, glorious beaches and colorful colonial streets come to mind. 

Posted March 12, 2024
Kate Woodley
After a 2-year career break travelling the world, Kate quit her job as a Management Consultant and went all in on digital nomad life. She continues to travel, working as a freelance writer and inspiring others to travel through her Instagram, Maskedtravelsx. Kate also shares her love of travel by running group trips to unique destinations — Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan etc. Where life will take her next? She has no idea!