Overview
Mexico blends Caribbean and Pacific beaches, ancient Maya and Aztec ruins, colourful colonial cities and world-famous cuisine. From the resorts of Cancún to the buzz of Mexico City, it is a favourite long-haul escape for UK travellers seeking sun, culture and adventure.
Best time to fly to Mexico
The dry season from November to April is the most popular, with warm, sunny days ideal for the beaches and ruins. The summer months are hotter and wetter, with a hurricane risk on the coasts between June and November. Fares rise over UK school holidays and Christmas, so the price charts on this page show the cheapest dates for your route.
Main gateway cities & airports
The main gateways are Cancún International Airport (CUN) for the Caribbean coast and Mexico City International Airport (MEX) for the capital and central Mexico. Other useful hubs include Guadalajara (GDL) and Los Cabos (SJD) on the Pacific.
Airlines and routes
British Airways and Aeroméxico fly direct from London to Cancún and Mexico City in around 10–11.5 hours. For connecting options — often better value — Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, United, Iberia (via Madrid) and Air France (via Paris) also serve Mexico from the UK.
Popular places to visit in Mexico
- Cancún & the Riviera Maya: white-sand beaches and turquoise Caribbean seas
- Chichén Itzá: the iconic Maya pyramid and UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Mexico City: world-class museums, markets and the historic centre
- Tulum: clifftop ruins above a stunning beach
- Oaxaca: colonial charm, crafts and celebrated cuisine
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Mexico
- Book a few months ahead for winter sun and school-holiday dates.
- Travel in the shoulder months (May or October) to balance weather and price.
- Compare direct and one-stop routes — a connection via the US or Europe can save money.
- Be flexible with dates — midweek departures are often cheaper.
Travel essentials
- Visa: UK travellers do not need a visa for tourist stays and complete an entry form on arrival
- Health: no special vaccinations are required for most trips, but check advice for rural areas
- Currency: the Mexican peso (MXN)
