Travel to Mexico: Oaxaca, Yucatán and the Caribbean

Arrival in Mexico City. Depending on when you land, you'll have free time to wander around the Zócalo, the Cathedral, the Templo Mayor, the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Alameda Central at your own pace. Grab a bite in the city centre or at a classic taquería, then head over to Roma or Condesa later in the day for a more laid-back vibe.

Day trip to Teotihuacán, the ancient pre-Hispanic city and one of Mexico's most important archaeological sites — home to the massive Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, and the sweeping Avenue of the Dead that ties the whole complex together. On the way back, a stop at the Basilica of Guadalupe, Mexico's most important Catholic shrine and a major pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe, with deep religious and historical roots in the country.

Transfer to the airport for the flight to Oaxaca. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and, depending on what time you land, free time to wander the historic centre, explore the Zócalo and the streets around it, and soak up the local vibe at your own pace — plazas, markets, and charming streets all waiting to be discovered.

Head out to Hierve el Agua, a striking natural site in the mountains famous for its mineral formations that look like frozen waterfalls, plus natural pools with sweeping views over the valley. Along the way, you'll stop at the Árbol del Tule, Teotitlán del Valle to explore its textile traditions, Mitla, and a mezcal distillery before heading back to Oaxaca.

Monte Albán day trip — a UNESCO World Heritage zapotec city perched on a mountaintop. You'll explore its plazas, temples and tombs, with sweeping views over the Oaxaca valley. Then it's on to Jalatlaco and Xochimilco, two of the city's most charming traditional neighbourhoods — perfect for a wander, a coffee stop, and plenty of photos of their colourful streets.

Transfer to the departure airport for your flight to Mérida. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and the rest of the day is yours — depending on when you land, plenty of time to start exploring this colonial city in southeastern Mexico on your own, known for its historic architecture and laid-back atmosphere.

Day trip to Uxmal, one of the top archaeological sites on the Puuc Route and a standout example of Maya architecture in Yucatán — known for its elegant structures and intricate geometric decoration. Then on to Kabah, a smaller but fascinating site famous for the Palace of the Masks, whose facade is covered in carvings of the rain god Chaac. Back to Mérida to wrap up the day.

We leave the hotel in Valladolid and head to Chichén Itzá, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and one of the most important Maya sites. Next stop: cenote Yokdzonot, a natural freshwater formation typical of the Yucatán Peninsula, with deep blue water and turquoise reflections. Then we swing by Izamal, a colonial city known for its yellow facades and laid-back atmosphere, before heading back to Valladolid.

A relaxed morning in Valladolid — wander the Calzada de los Frailes at your own pace, peek inside the Convento de San Bernardino, or take a dip at Cenote Zací. Then it's time to hop on the bus or the Tren Maya toward Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or Cancún, depending on where you're based. Arrival on the Riviera Maya and your first night on the coast.

Free day to enjoy the Mexican Caribbean beaches at your own pace — kick back at the hotel, head out on your own to a nearby cenote for a dip in those crystal-clear waters, or make your way over to Isla Mujeres or Cozumel, both famous for their turquoise waters and laid-back vibe. Time to switch off and soak up the surroundings however you like.

Free day to enjoy the Mexican Caribbean beaches at your own pace — kick back at the hotel, head out on your own to a nearby cenote for a dip in those crystal-clear waters, or make your way over to Isla Mujeres or Cozumel, both famous for their turquoise waters and laid-back vibe. Time to switch off and soak up the surroundings however you like.