7 days in Acapulco, Mexico: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Oh, Acapulco! This sunny Mexican city will steal your heart with its breathtaking cliffs, golden beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Nestled in the state of Guerrero, Acapulco has it all—a rich history, bustling markets, and a taste of Mexican culture you won’t forget. Take a leap of faith by visiting the famous La Quebrada cliff divers, and indulge yourself in the fusion of flavors offered by the local cuisine. With so much to explore, Acapulco is waiting for you to dive in and discover its hidden treasures!
Things to Consider Before Arriving in Acapulco
Well-known for its beautiful beaches and warm weather
A fantastic nightlife scene for those who love to dance the night away
It’s worth noting that Acapulco has faced some safety concerns in recent years, but being cautious and sticking to tourist areas can keep you out of trouble
✔️ Acapulco is perfect for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and party animals alike
What to Bring With You
1. Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the powerful sun
2. Comfortable clothing and swimwear for lounging on the beach
3. A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in the heat
4. A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Best Time of the Year to Visit Acapulco
Acapulco is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is warm but not too hot, and there’s less rain. This is also peak season, so expect more tourists and higher prices.
How to Get into the City
1. By air: Fly into General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport (ACA), located about 16 miles (26 kilometers) south of the city. From there, you can hop on a taxi or rent a car to get to your final destination.
2. By bus: There are several long-distance bus companies offering services from other Mexican cities to Acapulco. Estrella de Oro and Estrella Blanca are two popular options, with buses arriving at the Central Bus Station, near downtown Acapulco.
3. By car: If you’re up for a road trip, driving to Acapulco from Mexico City takes about four hours on Highway 95. Be prepared to pay tolls along the way, and enjoy the scenic views as you travel through the countryside.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Acapulco, Mexico
Day 1: Beach and Sunset
Start your day with a swim at Playa Caleta, one of Acapulco’s top beaches. Then, head to La Quebrada to witness the cliff divers’ daring jumps. End your day with a sunset picnic at the scenic Punta Diamante.
Day 2: Explore Downtown
Visit the historic Fuerte de San Diego, which houses a museum about Acapulco’s colonial past. Then, walk around the Zócalo to admire the city’s colorful buildings and churches, such as the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad. Stop by the Mercado Central to sample local street food and buy souvenirs.
Day 3: Day Trip to Taxco
Take a 2-hour trip to the beautiful colonial town of Taxco, known for its silver mines and handicrafts. Visit the Santa Prisca church, climb the Cerro de Atache to enjoy panoramic views, and go shopping at the artisanal markets.
Day 4: Water Sports
Rent a jet ski or go parasailing at Playa Condesa. Later, take a sunset cruise around Acapulco Bay, where you can see the city’s iconic skyline and enjoy drinks and live music onboard.
Day 5: Scenic Drives
Take a drive along the scenic coastal road to Pie de la Cuesta, a quieter beach with stunning sunsets. In the afternoon, visit the Jardin Botanico de Acapulco, a lush garden with exotic plants and animals.
Day 6: Day Trip to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo
Travel north to the charming twin towns of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, which offer a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Swim with dolphins at Delfiniti, go fishing at Zihuatanejo Bay, and dine at La Casa Que Canta, a cliffside restaurant with ocean views.
Day 7: Culture and Nightlife
Visit the Casa de la Cultura to learn about Acapulco’s arts and crafts. Then, head to the La Costera strip to enjoy Acapulco’s vibrant nightlife, with clubs like Mandara and Palladium.
How to Continue Your Travel after You Have Spent 7 Days in Acapulco, Mexico
If you have the time, take a 3-hour bus ride north to visit the colonial city of Morelia, famous for its baroque architecture and delicious cuisine. Another option is to travel 2 hours south to the beach town of Huatulco, where you can go snorkeling, visit waterfalls, and relax in the natural reserves. Both cities are easily accessible by bus and offer a unique Mexican experience away from the hustle and bustle of Acapulco.
