Overview of Central Mexico
FR

Quick Overview

This is the most populous region, centered around the capital and including the states of Aguascalientes, Colima, Guanajuato, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Morelos, Nayarit, Oaxaca, Puebla, San Luis Potosí, Querétaro, Tlaxcala, Veracruz, and Zacatecas.

Key Facts

  • Type of place: tourist region.
  • Location: around Mexico City, between the two oceans.
  • Main cities: Guadalajara, Mexico City, Morelia, Puebla, Puerto Vallarta, Veracruz...
  • Population:
  • Area:
  • Density:
  • Highest point: Pico de Orizaba volcano (5,636 m).
  • Lowest point: sea level.
  • Coastline:

Tourism

Central Mexico is a major tourist destination. Here, you’ll find a rich cultural heritage blending colonial cities and pre-Columbian ruins, stunning natural landscapes, and renowned beach resorts that attract relaxation-seeking travelers. The region is most visited along the Puerto Vallarta–Mexico City–Veracruz corridor, both inland and along the coast—particularly the Mexican Riviera on the Pacific side.

Travel Essentials

  • Destination: for beginner to somewhat experienced travelers.
  • By air: France–Mexico round trip for 520/1,000 €.
  • Backpacker daily budget: 40 to 50 € per person.
  • Accommodation: mid-range hotels (or all-inclusive if you’re only planning beach stays).
  • Getting around: buses (occasionally by car or plane).
  • Risks: low health risks; low to locally moderate security risks.
  • Best time for climate/crowds/prices: October–April/early May, avoiding Christmas/January and Easter.
  • Interests (out of ): Nature ; Adventure ; Culture ; Relaxation .

Precautions

Health

Security

While the capital region is less affected by insecurity than the north, some areas still require caution—so much so that parts of the Pacific coast (Guerrero and Michoacán states) are currently either fully or strongly advised against by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In short, it’s best to stay informed about the current situation in the places you plan to visit.