From Mexico City to Yucatán, these are the must-see spots that are topping our list for a Mexican summer vacation in 2023.
Summer is the perfect time to take a week (or two) off your busy work schedule and head down to Mexico for a well-deserved vacation. Boasting with rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, now is the time for some sunny relaxation.
Whether you’re seeking some chill time on a sun-kissed beach or a thrilling adventure in one of the Seven Wonders of the World, our Mexican Summer Bucket List has got you covered. Let’s explore the top three vacation ideas that should be on every traveler’s radar this summer!
1. Meet Some Chilangos and Take a Trajinera Tour in Mexico City’s Xochimilco
If you ask any seasoned traveler or rookie digital nomad what their favorite work-and-pleasure city is, we bet they’ll say Mexico City. Without a doubt, for chilangos (slang for Mexico City locals and transplants) and foreigners alike, CDMX is where it’s at.
CDMX is a vibrant cosmopolitan metropolis where you can easily find ancient history and modernity at once. This city has plenty to offer: historic landmarks, iconic art galleries and museums, culinary delights, and lively neighborhoods.
A place so diverse and culturally rich, there is virtually no shortage of things to do in Mexico City. A classic place to visit in Mexico City is Xochimilco. If you’re looking for a memorable and local travel experience, a trip to the “Venice of Mexico” will not disappoint.
Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Xochimilco is mostly known for the colorful gondola style boats called trajineras: hand-painted wooden boats dressed in bright colors, each donning a unique name, like Lupita, Margarita or Bonita, to name a few.
Hop on a trajinera and float along Xochimilco’s intricate canal system on a busy day to catch mariachi bands performing, buy flowers and eat street food from the passerby vendors. Call your primos, hire one of the boats with tables and chairs, and kick back with a beer while you sing some mariachi tunes.
We highly recommend you bring your own snacks for the trip! This is your perfect opportunity to share some of your favorite chamoy candy with your family and friends. Filled with a fun variety of Mexican sweets, our Chamoy Candy Sampler is your perfect choice to keep all kinds of tastes at bay.
2. Take Your Family For A Dive into the Colorful Underwater World of Cozumel
Cozumel is a stunning island located off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. This gorgeous paradise will leave you mesmerized with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and pristine beaches.
Known as the home of some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world, Cozumel is a haven for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
Take a trip to the coral reefs and see tropical fish, rays, and even whale sharks. Discover famous dive sites such as Palancar Reef, a rich underwater landscape ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. Santa Rosa Wall is an unforgettable dive, too.
If diving isn’t your thing, a glass-bottom boat tour lets you explore the underwater wonders without getting soaked.
Cozumel is also host to picturesque beaches with powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. Among the most popular beaches are Paradise Beach, Playa Palancar, and Playa Mia. For added adventure, try kayaking or paddleboarding.
Relax under the shade of palm trees, soak up the sun, and take refreshing dips in the Caribbean Sea. You know what snack goes well with the salty breeze of the ocean? You guessed it: chamoy.
Let loose and grab a Cherry Pickle Kit before heading down to the beach. Our kits come with all the ingredients you need for a tasty snack: a cherry pickle, two Fruit Roll-Ups, one Skwinkles Salsagheti Mango, one Lucas Gusano Chamoy, one Lucas Powder Mango, and a handful of Chamoy Gushers.
3. Explore the Enchanting Colonial Charm of San Miguel de Allende in Gorgeous Guanajuato
San Miguel de Allende is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colorful streets, and vibrant spirit. This charming small town is paved with cobblestone streets, lined with colonial Spanish architecture, adorned with bougainvillea flowers and intricate ironwork—it makes for a stunning postcard or Instagram post, your choice.
Here’s your chance to take a more laid-back approach to trouristing and hit the numerous artisan markets around town. Visit the stunning Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel that dominates the city’s skyline, or learn about the local art scene at one of the numerous galleries and workshops.
San Miguel de Allende is a culinary paradise with a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors and international cuisines.
You can eat delicious street food, buy fresh produce at local markets, and dine in restaurants that offer mouthwatering dishes. A must-try is the enchiladas mineras and the chiles en nogada, both regional specialties.
By day, make sure you fight the heat with a raspado de tamarindo con chamoy (tamarind shaved ice with chamoy), from El Jardín de los Patos. The establishment has been serving these delicious spicy treats for over 60 years now.
If you’re still craving some spicy sweetness, take a bag of your favorite Chamoy Manguitos to snack on throughout the day.
What are you waiting for?
Mexico offers an array of vacation experiences that will make your summer truly memorable. Each destination offers its own unique experience, whether you want to dive into the colorful underwater world of Cozumel, explore the enchanting colonial streets of San Miguel de Allende, or spend time with your Mexican family in CDMX.
Our Mexican Summer Bucket List promises excitement, relaxation, cultural immersion, and lasting memories. Take advantage of Mexico’s inviting spirit and embark on a summer adventure unlike any other.
Don’t forget to bring your favorite Sofia’s Spicy Treats candy for the ride! Buy chamoy candy and other Mexican summer delights here.