Pre-Hispanic Mexico & the Caribbean

Arrival in Mexico City. Depending on when you land, you'll have free time to wander the Zócalo, the Cathedral, the Templo Mayor, the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Alameda Central on your own. Grab a bite downtown or at a classic taquería, then head over to Roma or Condesa later 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 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.

Leave your hotel in Mérida and head out to Izamal, a colonial town known for its yellow facades and easygoing vibe. From there, on to the Yokdzonot cenote, one of those freshwater sinkholes the Yucatán Peninsula does so well, with deep blue waters and turquoise glints. Next up: Chichén Itzá, one of the seven wonders of the modern world and one of the great Mayan sites, before finishing the day in Valladolid, where you'll have free time to wander the town centre on your own.

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.