Cozumel Beats Cancun, Mexico City, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Merida and Tulum to Set the Stage for Mexico’s Record-Breaking Holiday Season in 2025!

Published on December 23, 2025

Cozumel has emerged as the top contender, beating Cancun, Mexico City, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Merida, and Tulum to set the stage for Mexico’s record-breaking holiday season in 2025. This island paradise, known for its breathtaking coral reefs and vibrant culture, is drawing more visitors than ever before. Cozumel’s popularity has skyrocketed, with tourists flocking to its pristine beaches and world-renowned dive spots. In 2025, it is set to outperform the major tourism hubs of Cancun, Mexico City, and others in terms of bookings and overall interest. Thanks to improved infrastructure, luxury accommodations, and increased cruise traffic, Cozumel is now seen as a top destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. As Mexico’s holiday tourism forecast soars, Cozumel is leading the way, offering an unforgettable experience for travelers around the world.

Mexico’s Year-End Tourism Surge

According to the latest tourism data, Mexico has seen an extraordinary increase in international visitors in 2025. The country’s top destinations are bracing themselves for a surge in tourists, with forecasts indicating that 27.7 million international visitors will arrive in Mexico by the end of 2025, a 7.2% increase over last year. These travelers will be heading to the country’s most iconic spots, with coastal cities, bustling metropolises, and heritage towns seeing the most action.

With its year-round sunshine and rich cultural history, it’s no surprise that Mexico is on the top of many travellers’ lists this festive season. Let’s dive into the details of Mexico’s top cities and holiday hotspots where millions are expected to visit.

Cozumel: The Ultimate Diver’s Paradise

Just off the coast of Playa del Carmen lies Cozumel, a small island that packs a big punch when it comes to tourism. Known for its pristine coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, Cozumel is a diver’s paradise. The island is home to some of the best underwater attractions in the world, making it one of Mexico’s most important eco-tourism destinations.

For the year-end holidays in 2025, Cozumel is set to experience an influx of both cruise ship passengers and overnight visitors. According to SECTUR (Mexico’s official tourism data), Cozumel continues to see growth in visitor numbers, especially during the winter months when travellers from the United States, Europe, and Canada flock to the island for some much-needed sunshine.

Cozumel’s central location in the Caribbean also makes it a prime stop for many cruise lines, further boosting its tourism during the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, or simply lounging on the beach. With a range of luxury resorts and local attractions, Cozumel offers something for every type of traveler.

Cancun: Mexico’s Caribbean Jewel

When it comes to tourism, Cancun is at the heart of Mexico’s success. This world-renowned beach resort town continues to set records in visitor numbers year after year. Cancun’s stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious all-inclusive resorts make it a dream holiday destination.

Cancun is not just a spot for relaxation but also offers visitors an abundance of activities, from exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza to diving in the second-largest coral reef system in the world. The city has an unparalleled charm that attracts millions of international visitors, especially during the holiday season. The Cancun International Airport sees the largest volume of arrivals, and according to official sources, the number of tourists is only expected to grow in 2025.

The Riviera Maya, which stretches south of Cancun, is also a major tourist hub. Popular destinations like Playa del Carmen and Tulum are a short drive away, offering travellers an even wider variety of experiences. The region is famous for its eco-friendly resorts, unique cenotes (natural swimming holes), and ancient Mayan archaeological sites.

Mexico City: A Cultural and Business Hotspot

Mexico City, the nation’s capital, offers a completely different experience from the coastal cities. As the largest urban centre in Latin America, Mexico City is a vibrant mix of ancient history and modern business. Visitors to the city can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like the Historic Centre of Mexico City and the Teotihuacan Pyramids, as well as enjoy the city’s world-class museums, restaurants, and nightlife.

As a major business hub, Mexico City sees a consistent flow of corporate visitors, especially during the year-end holiday period. But the city isn’t all about business. Tourists are drawn to Mexico City’s incredible cultural offerings, which include mariachi performances, traditional markets, and historic landmarks such as Chapultepec Castle and Frida Kahlo’s Blue House.

The city’s large international airport also makes it a major gateway for tourists visiting Mexico, and hotel occupancy is expected to be high throughout the holiday period. Mexico City’s holiday celebrations, including its New Year’s Eve fireworks and parades, are famous for their lively atmosphere, attracting both locals and international visitors.

Los Cabos: Luxury in Baja California

For those looking for a mix of luxury resorts and beautiful beaches, Los Cabos in Baja California is the place to be. Comprising the twin cities of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, this region is known for its upscale resorts, incredible nightlife, and world-class golf courses. Los Cabos has long been a favourite destination for celebrities and luxury travellers.

In 2025, Los Cabos is expected to see record-breaking tourist numbers during the holiday season. Its expensive resort accommodations, amazing beaches, and high-end dining options make it a perfect holiday destination for those seeking relaxation and glamour.

Moreover, Los Cabos offers numerous excursions, from whale watching to sport fishing, making it an attractive destination for adventure seekers too. While the area has always been a popular destination for American tourists, in recent years, visitors from around the world have been flocking to this stunning corner of Mexico, drawn by its year-round pleasant climate.

Puerto Vallarta: The Heart of the Pacific Coast

For a more laid-back beach experience, Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific coast is the place to be. Famous for its cobblestone streets, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches, Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The city is rich in culture, and visitors can experience traditional Mexican life while enjoying a beachfront holiday.

Puerto Vallarta is especially popular with couples and families looking to escape the colder winter months. The holiday period sees high hotel occupancy rates, with many tourists visiting to take part in local festivals, explore the Los Arcos National Marine Park, or just relax on the beach. Puerto Vallarta is also a popular spot for cruise passengers, who make up a significant portion of its holiday visitors.

Mérida: Mexico’s Cultural Capital

In contrast to Mexico’s beach resorts, Mérida offers a different charm. Known for its colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to major archaeological sites, Mérida is the cultural capital of the Yucatán Peninsula. As an emerging destination for both domestic and international tourists, Mérida is growing in popularity, especially among travellers who want to experience Mexico’s rich history and heritage.

Mérida’s attractions, including the Cenotes of Yucatán and Chichen Itza, make it a must-visit for culture lovers. The city’s historic centre is home to several museums, galleries, and theatres, and its food scene is a delight for visitors eager to taste authentic Mexican cuisine. During the year-end holidays, Mérida attracts tourists seeking a quieter, more cultural holiday experience.

Year-End Travel Trends in Mexico

According to INRIX (the travel data provider), traffic congestion in major tourist cities like Cancun, Mexico City, and Los Cabos is expected to peak during the holidays. The busiest travel days will likely be December 20 to 23, as people head to their holiday destinations. However, it’s also important to note that Mexico’s popularity during the year-end period continues to grow, driven by its wide array of attractions and beautiful weather.

The holiday season in Mexico is also an important time for domestic tourism. Many Mexicans take this time to travel to their family homes or explore the country’s beautiful landscapes and cities, which significantly boosts the number of domestic travelers.

Why Mexico Should Be Your Top Holiday Destination in 2025

Mexico’s stunning cities, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture make it a top choice for holiday travel in 2025. Whether you’re seeking luxury in Los Cabos, adventure in Cozumel, or cultural exploration in Mexico City or Mérida, there’s a destination for every traveller. The country’s year-end tourism forecast is extremely promising, with a significant increase in international visitors. With a mix of cultural heritage, modern amenities, and tropical allure, Mexico promises to deliver an unforgettable holiday experience.

As more travellers look to Mexico for their year-end getaway, the country’s tourism is only set to rise in 2025. It’s time to pack your bags and head to one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world.

Source: AAA