Brimming with history and with a food scene that spans roadside stalls and Michelin-starred menus, Mexico is home to contrast galore. From breathtaking landscapes to buzzing city streets, epic coastline to ancient ruins, this is a country that personifies diversity. Crystal ocean waters beckon for refreshing dips, sweeping white beaches coax reluctant surfers out of their shells, and traditional tacos never fail to please even the most demanding of palates. Capital Mexico City’s frenetic energy reflects its metropolis status, with over 25 million residents, while the empty wilderness of Chiapas feels like a world away. Deep jungle and dense rainforest sit alongside vast desert and cactus-dotted flats. Regarded as the foodie capital of Mexico, the Oaxaca region is home to stringy quesillo cheese — found at the market in meter-long pieces — and widely used herb epazote, while Veracruz is the source of much of the country’s produce. Tulum’s picturesque Mayan ruins are a draw for visitors from all over the world, perched high on cliffs above the clear sea below.

The country’s busiest entry point is Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez (MEX) in Mexico City, while Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Airport (GDL) in Guadalajara and Cancún International Airport (CUN) and Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) on the coasts are also major hubs. Flying is a popular and feasible option for longer journeys, but Mexico does have an effective, efficient bus system with frequent, comfortable services for connecting to other cities and your house rental in Mexico. In contrast, there is only one train route in the north of the country — albeit one with breathtaking views. Ferries also operate between the mainline and nearby islands. Four-wheeled transit ranges from cabs, rental vehicles — experienced drivers recommended — and colectivos, shared taxis with specific routes and stop-anywhere policies. The country’s capital, Mexico City, boasts the second-largest metro system in all of North America.

Weather-wise, be prepared for rain between late spring and September, although showers tend to be short and sharp, so they won’t dampen your whole day. Visitor numbers tend to tail off in May and June, and hurricanes are a risk in the fall months. Mexican Independence Day in September is a great way to feel the energy of any of its major cities. Wildlife spotters in Cancun are in luck in May, when whale sharks head there, whereas gray whales are a common sight in Los Cabos from fall right through to spring. Surfers head to Puerto Vallarta for prime waves starting in November and running past the end of February. For something a little different, take in the radish festival in Oaxaca on December 23 and watch as prizes are awarded for intricately carved scenes.

Tempt your tastebuds in Oaxaca

From giant tortilla tlayudas to smooth, silky mole, Oaxaca is lauded by many as the food capital of Mexico. Located in the south of the country, the region and its capital of the same name often fly under the radar, but architecture fans will appreciate the Mexican Baroque style of Santo Domingo church.

Go surfing in Zihuatanejo

A fishing town at its core, Zihuatanejo is a distinctly laid-back destination. Nestled against the coast under steep hills, the rolling waves, no-fuss vibe, and seclusion of its location made it a beloved getaway for stars in the 1950s and 1960s, drawing in world-famous musicians, actors, and more. Nowadays, the surf is still good and the surfers are still chilled.

Explore the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef

Hugging the shoreline of the Yucatan Peninsula, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the world’s second-largest barrier reef. Pick up a snorkel or a scuba kit and be amazed by vibrant local coral and hundreds of fish species, and spot sea turtles and dolphins swimming by in the warm turquoise water.