Mexico comprises many different geographic and climatic regions. The north, which takes up almost 40% of the country, is the least populated area and is dry and desert-like, while the central plateau rises are criss-crossed by volcanoes, mountain ranges and valleys populated with cities such as Mexico City, Toluca and Guadalajara (home of Mariachi music). This is the most densely populated region of Mexico. The country narrows with the Isthmus of Tehuantepec and the Pacific coastal resorts of Acapulco, Zihuatanejo and Puerto Escondido to the south. This area contrasts sharply with the hot and humid Yucatan Peninsula which is an area of dry forest, Caribbean beaches and one of the main areas for tourism.

Mexico City, the world’s largest city with c. 20 million inhabitants, far exceeds the boundaries of the ancient Aztec city of Tenoctitlán, which was built on a number of islands in the centre of a shallow lake. Mexico City is as famous for its pollution, urban sprawl and traffic as it is for its wonderful Anthropology Museum, Aztec temples and highly original works of art by Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. It is also known today as the place where Leon Trotsky was assassinated.

Mexico mixes ancient ruins, colonial towns, modern cities, beautiful beaches and resorts, tranquil fishing villages and traditional markets. It is a country of great contrasts: indigenous agricultural communities co-exist side by side with modern technology. Holidays in Mexico can include anything from whale watching in Baja California, to jungle walks in Palenque, to happy hour in a Cancun bar.

For further reading about Mexico City, and its historic heart, click here to read the pages from the Lonely Planet Guide to Mexico City.

To read about the Friends of the Royal Academy AZTECS Tour in Mexico click here.

Click here to view recommended itineraries for travel in Mexico.