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The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

Mexico City is the fifth largest city in the world, a sprawling metropolis where history and culture converge in a dynamic tapestry of bright colors, diverse cuisines, and lively districts.

I love it here. I’ve been a handful of times and never get tired of exploring and eating my way around the city. I always have an amazing time. In fact, I love the city so much I even ran tours here (and every single person I showed around was blown away). No one hates this place.

Unsurprisingly, in a city so large and with such a long history, there’s a ton to see and do here, from visiting world-class museums to feasting at tiny taco stands to exploring offbeat neighborhoods. You could easily spend a week here and not even scratch the surface.

Here are what I think are best things to do in Mexico City so that you can have fun and really get to know the city and culture on your trip to this vibrant capital!

Table of Contents

1. Take a Walking Tour

2. visit the museo nacional de antropología, 3. tour frida kahlo’s house, 4. attend a lucha libre, 5. day trip to teotihuacán, 6. peruse the mercados, 7. take a food tour, 8. sample mezcal, 9. float along the xochimilco canals, 10. admire the view from torre latinoamericana, 11. wander the zócalo, 12. relax in chapultepec park, 13. visit castillo de chapultepec, 14. check out the art and history museums, 15. tour a megalibrary, 16. marvel at the soumaya museum, 17. escape to the unam botanical garden, 18. stroll around roma and condesa, 19. visit a pueblo mágico, 20. offbeat things to do in mexico city.

Walking tours are an excellent way to learn a destination’s history and avoid missing any must-see stops. I always start my trips off with at least one walking tour as it’s the best way to get the lay of the land and connect with a local guide that can answer all your questions.

Estación Mexico Free Tours and the Monkey Experience both have a free historic downtown tour that can show you what the city has to offer. The former also offers four other free tours of different neighborhoods too. Even though the tours are technically free, always remember to tip your guide at the end!

For more walking tour recommendations (including paid options), check out this post .

Found within Chapultepec Park, this world-class anthropology museum is the largest museum in Mexico (it’s also the most visited, receiving over two million guests per year). Since 1964, it has housed the largest global collection of sculptures, jewels, and artifacts from ancient Mexican civilizations. The different time periods are grouped into comprehensive (and massive) exhibition halls with bilingual information signs, so be sure to give yourself ample time to explore it all. There’s a beautiful courtyard in the center where you can sit and people-watch for a bit.

Av. P.º de la Reforma s/n, +52 (55) 5553-6266, mna.inah.gob.mx. Open Tues-Sun 9am-6pm. Tickets are 95 MXN. Guided tours of the highlights start at 375 MXN (includes admission).

Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera are two of the biggest names in Mexican art. Frida was particularly famous for her portraits and self-portraits. A tour of their old home (“Casa Azul”) is a worthwhile experience to see where and how she lived, as well as some of her original artwork. It’s a really interesting house with a beautiful garden and lots of information about her life. The residence also hosts a variety of artistic workshops monthly, so check out the schedule if you’re interested.

This guided tour of Coyoacán (the surrounding neighborhood) includes a ticket to the museum, which you’ll visit at your own pace after learning about the area in which the two artists lived and worked.

Londres 247, Del Carmen, +52 55 5554 5999, museofridakahlo.org.mx. Open Tues-Sun 10am-6pm (Wednesdays at 11am-6pm). Tickets are 250 MXN (270 MXN on the weekends). You must buy your tickets well in advance (at least a month out), because they are in incredibly high demand.

Mexican “free wrestling” is a favorite national pastime. Extremely entertaining and affordable, lucha libre takes the sport to a whole new level. Grab a beer or a shot of tequila, and whatever you do, do not look away during a match as anything can — and will — happen. (Do not bring your camera though, as you will be forced to check it at the door.)

Arena México and Arena Coliseo are the main places to see a match. General seating tickets can be as little as 56 MXN (do not buy from scalpers, because the police are always around and you’ll get in trouble). Look for a taquilla (ticket booth) sign to be sure that you are paying the right price.

Guided experiences, like this lucha libre experience , are also available. During the match, you’ll enjoy a mezcal tasting and munch on chips and guacamole, and at the end, you’ll leave with your very own lucha libre mask.

Arena México: Dr. Lavista 189, +52 55 5588 0266, cmll.com/arenas/arena-mexico. Shows on Fridays at 8:30pm, Sundays at 5pm, and Tuesdays at 7:30pm

Arena Coliseo: República de Perú 77, +52 55 5588 0266, cmll.com/arenas/arena-coliseo. Shows on Saturday nights at 7:30pm.

I’ve been a few times and can’t recommend it enough (especially if you’re a history buff). We took our tour groups here and everyone always had an amazing time.

You can either do the day trip yourself (there are plenty of buses) or go on a guided tour that also stops at the Guadalupe Basilica , an important pilgrimage site. Either way, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, as the sun is punishing, and there’s little to no shade.

Admission to the pyramids is 80 MXN, while a full-day tour including transportation and a local guide is 540 MXN.

Mexico City boasts a kaleidoscope of bustling markets, each with its own unique charm. Among the most famous is Mercado de la Merced, a sprawling market hailed as the largest in town. Located east of the Zócalo, it’s mainly focused on food, with vibrant displays of fruits, vegetables, meats, and spices.

Another iconic market is Mercado Roma, a contemporary gastronomic hub that showcases the city’s culinary diversity through gourmet treats and artisanal products. For something a little different, Mercado Jamaica is a beautiful flower market, full of vibrant colors and fragrances. And for unique souvenirs, head to La Ciudadela, an artisan market which boasts an extensive collection of traditional textiles and handicrafts.

Finally, Mercado de Sonora stands out for its mystical ambiance, renowned for catering to spiritual and esoteric needs, offering everything from traditional herbs and potions to ritualistic artifacts. There’s truly a market for everything in Mexico City!

If you don’t want to explore on your own, you can join a guided tour that visits both Mercado de la Merced and Mercado de Sonora, including many stops to sample lots of authentic local treats Tickets are around 1,100 MXN.

My friend Anais runs Devoured Tours , offering in-depth tours into the food scene of CMDX, with five different four-hour options to choose from. On each tour, you’ll meet a local “tastemaker,” an expert in their craft who shares the process behind Mexican gastronomic traditions like making mouthwatering tacos or crafting exquisite mezcal cocktails. Tours start at 1,625 MXN.

If you just want to eat all the tacos (who doesn’t), join Sabores Mexico Food Tours on its Tacos & Mezcal Night Food Tour . You’ll enjoy tacos at a mix of traditional and contemporary taquerias and end your night sampling in the first mezcal bar in Mexico City.

I love mezcal. It’s is a traditional Mexican distilled spirit, crafted from agave, that’s renowned for its smoky flavor and complexity. I’ve learned a ton about it over the course of my visits to Mexico, but I’m always looking to try new flavors and dive deeper into the distilling process.

If you want to try mezcal and learn more about it, some unique places to sample it include La Mezcaloteca (a bar/library where you can do a tasting of five mezcals) and La Clandestina in Condesa (with 25 mezcals from all over the country)

At the Museum of Tequila and Mezcal near Plaza Garibaldi, knowledgeable guides will lead you through the intricate process of production, from harvest to distillation. You’ll also get to sample types of mezcal alongside different tequilas, so you can appreciate the differences between Mexico’s main two spirits. A ticket that includes tastings costs 340 MXN.

If you’re an early riser, you can even opt for a sunrise tour, during which you’ll get the waterways virtually to yourself. Tours start at 890 MXN.

Torre Latinoamericana is an iconic skyscraper in the heart of Mexico City. Completed in 1956, it was once the tallest building in Latin America. Designed by architect Augusto H. Álvarez, the tower rises 183 meters (600 feet) and consists of 44 floors. (It has resisted numerous earthquakes, thanks to its innovative design featuring a stabilizing core.)

The tower offers panoramic views from its observation deck, giving a good perspective on just how massive the city is. It costs 200 MXN to visit the observation floor ( get advance tickets here ), but if you go to the bar on the floor just below, you’ll get the same view for the price of a drink.

Francisco I. Madero Avenue 1, +52 55 5518 7423, miradorlatino.com. Open daily 9am-10pm. Tickets are 200 MXN.

Originally the main ceremonial center in the ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlán (located where Mexico City now stands), the Templo Mayor was destroyed to make room for the cathedral in 1521. In fact, the very stones that made up the temple were used to create the cathedral. You can now view ancient artifacts uncovered from the site, rediscovered in the 1970s, at the Museo del Templo Mayor (95 MXN to enter the museum and archaeological site).

When you’re done, head over to admire the stunning Spanish colonial architecture of the La Catedral Metropolitana. This 16th-century building dominates the northern half of the Zócalo and is free to enter. Inside, it’s incredibly ornate, with a floor that’s noticeably tilted thanks to the perpetual sinking of the city (due to its construction on a lake and swamp).

Chapultepec means “Hill of the Grasshopper” in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs. Spanning 686 hectares (1,700 acres), this park in the heart of Mexico City is the second largest urban park in Latin America (the biggest is in Santiago, Chile ). It’s one of the world’s most visited too, not only by visitors but locals, who love to set up shop grilling and picnicking on Sundays. You can also rent a rowboat or paddleboat and go out on Chapultepec Lake. Whenever I want to just relax and soak up the sun, this is where I go.

In addition to the countless paths to stroll, Chapultepec is home to a zoo and several important museums, including the Museum of Anthropology (mentioned earlier) and Chapultepec Castle (see below).

The park is divided into three sections. Section 1 houses most of the museums and is open Tuesday-Sunday 5am-6pm. Sections 2 and 3 are open 24/7, though like many city parks, it’s likely not the best idea to walk through it alone after dark.

The only castle in North America to house monarchs, Chapultepec Castle was built in 1725 as a large manor house for the viceroy (the Spanish colonial administrator). Abandoned during the Mexican War of Independence in 1810, it later became the residence of Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota in 1864, during the Second Mexican Empire (1864–67).

Today, you can visit the castle and meander through the magnificently decorated period rooms, manicured gardens, and terraces offering impressive panoramas. The castle is also home to the Museo Nacional de Historia (see below), which tells the story of Mexico from the time of Tenochtitlán to the Mexican Revolution.

Bosque de Chapultepec, Section I, +52 55 5256 5464, mnh.inah.gob.mx. Open Tues-Sun 9am-5pm. Admission 95 MXN.

• Palacio de Bellas Artes (Fine Art Museum) : This impressive Art Nouveau building with an Art Deco interior is a massive cultural center that hosts performing arts events. Its various galleries include murals by Diego Rivera and rotating temporary exhibitions. It is also home to the Museum of Architecture.
• Museo Nacional de Historia (National History Museum) : This museum, located in Chapultepec Castle, tells the history of Mexico over 12 permanent exhibition halls.
• Museo de Arte Moderno (Museum of Modern Art) : Located within Chapultepec Park, this museum focuses on modern Mexican art. Its most famous piece is Frida Kahlo’s The Two Fridas .
• MUAC (University Museum of Contemporary Art of UNAM) : This art museum on the university’s grounds also focuses on contemporary Mexican art, with video and sound installations, paintings, drawings, and more.
• Museo Nacional de Arte (National Art Museum) : Mexican art from the mid-16th century to the mid-20th century is divided into three main time periods (colonial, post-independence, and post-revolution).
• Museo de Arte Popular (Folk Art Museum) : This museum’s collection of Mexican folk art and handicrafts features traditional textiles, pottery, glass, piñatas, and alebrijes (brightly colored sculptures of fantastical creatures).
• Memory and Tolerance Museum : This newer museum tells the history of genocides and crimes against humanity, with a section promoting tolerance and inclusion of all groups of people.
• Tamayo Museum : Born out of the private collection of artist Rufino Tamayo, this museum concentrates on 20th-century international art (especially of the avant-garde variety).

Ticket prices vary, but generally range from free to 100 MXN.

The Biblioteca Vasconcelos, located in the Buenavista neighborhood, is a temple to books, often referred to as a “megalibrary.” The largest library in the entire country, it opened in 2006, covers an incredible 38,000 square meters (409,000 square feet), and houses over 600,000 books.

But the real draw for the visitor is not in the collection (which, though large, isn’t particularly noteworthy) but the building itself. The architecture is stunning, featuring transparent walls, six intentionally mismatched floors, and sculptures by prominent artists. It also has a focus on sustainability, with rainwater collection barrels on the roof, windows designed to light almost the entire interior naturally (yet without harming the books), and a green roof covered in plants that keep the building cool.

Don’t miss popping around the back to stroll through the quiet and spacious garden filled with trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Admission is free.

Housing 66,000 pieces of Central American and European art, the Soumaya Museum displays works not only by Mexican artists such as Diego Rivera and Rufino Tamayo but also by famous masters such as Botticelli, Dalí, and Rodin. The museum was donated and constructed by one of the world’s richest men, Carlos Slim Helú (a Mexican business magnate). The Soumaya is a stunning piece of art on its own, as it is covered in 16,000 hexagonal aluminum tiles that sparkle in the sunlight. It’s considered the most beautiful modern building in Mexico City. Admission is free.

Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. +52 55 1103 9800, www.museosoumaya.org/. Open daily, 10:30am-6:30pm. Free entry.

If you’re seeking a temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City, look no further than the Botanical Garden at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). Rooted in Aztec traditions that valued gardens for both medicinal and ornamental purposes, this sanctuary also emphasizes conservation and environmental education. It’s situated around lava formations from the Xitle volcano eruption, and the paths meander through naturally formed grottoes and past waterfalls and ponds teeming with koi and turtles.

The plants you can admire here include the world’s most diverse cactus collection, with 800 different varieties; there’s also an orchidarium and a medicinal garden. This is also a habitat for wildlife: keep an eye out for woodpeckers, owls, hummingbirds, rattlesnakes, lizards, and the Pedregal tarantula, a species exclusive to this small area of Mexico City.

University City, Coyoacán. +52 56 22 90 63. www.ib.unam.mx/ib/jb/. Open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, Saturdays from 9am-3pm. Admission is free.

Roma is renowned for its bohemian atmosphere, European-inspired architecture, and colorful street art. Condesa is a bit more laid-back, high-class, and refined, featuring Art Deco buildings and lots of sidewalk cafés. Parque México and Parque España are iconic green spaces that divide the two neighborhoods and are perfect places to sit and people-watch for a bit.

The pueblos mágicos (magical towns) are towns and villages that the Mexican government has recognized for their cultural, historical, and natural significance. To be so designated, a place must meet specific criteria, including having historical and cultural richness and unique architecture, traditions, and folklore. These towns often feature well-preserved colonial architecture, lively cultural traditions, and a welcoming atmosphere.

While they are scattered all across the country, there’s one located just over an hour from Mexico City: Tepotzotlán.

Known for its beautiful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, vibrant murals, and hikes to sacred sites in the surrounding mountains, it makes for a fun day trip, or if you have the time, even an overnight. There are buses that go to Tepotzotlán from Taxqueña (Mexico City’s southern bus station) every 30 minutes. A ticket is 184 MXN.

There are lots of unconventional things to see and do that a lot of visitors don’t experience. Here are a few suggestions of some of my favorites:

• Palacio de Correos de México : This beautiful post office is a fascinating mix of architectural styles, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Gothic Revival, and others. There’s a free museum on the ground floor featuring various elements of the post office’s history, including a huge mural made entirely of stamps!
• Ballet Folklórico de México : This renowned folk-dance ensemble showcases traditional Mexican dance and music. Their permanent home is the Palacio de Bellas Artes, where tickets start at 1,200 MXN .
• Museo del Objeto del Objeto (Museum of the Object of the Object) : This quirky museum is dedicated to everyday objects, showcasing the evolution of design and consumer culture in Mexico. Free admission.
• Museo del Chocolate : Learn about the importance and cultivation of cacao throughout Mexico’s history. There’s also an attached café, where you can sample chocolates in plenty of different forms. Museum admission is 80 MXN.

Mexico City is one of the world’s greatest metropolises. From iconic landmarks like the historic Zócalo and the majestic Teotihuacán pyramids to the vibrant markets, diverse neighborhoods, and thriving culinary scene, it is utterly captivating. No matter how long you have here, these things to do will keep you busy and ensure that you have an amazing visit.

Book Your Trip to Mexico City: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, here are my favorite hostels in Mexico City .

This post can help you pick the best neighborhoods to stay in .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Mexico City? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Mexico City for even more planning tips!

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Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Mexico City   Travel Guide

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16 Best Things To Do in Mexico City

Mexico City, officially known as Ciudad de México (CDMX), is a growing and vibrant metropolis nestled in the heart of Mexico. The capital city of Mexico offers a blend of history, culture and gastronomy that attracts millions of annual visitors. From

• All Things To Do

Museo Nacional de Antropología Museo Nacional de Antropología

Located within the sprawling Chapultepec Forest , the Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Museum of Anthropology) showcases artifacts from Mexico's pre-Columbian era, dating from about 100 B.C. to A.D. 1521. Housed within the facility’s 22 rooms are artifacts, including the famous Aztec Calendar Stone, known as Piedra del Sol, as well as the ancient statue of Xochipilli, the Aztec god of art, games, beauty, dance and maize (among others). The museum offers a look at how tradition, culture and life were formed in all regions of Mexico, and it also educates visitors on how Mexico’s indigenous descendants live today. 

Past visitors said this is a must-see if you’re interested in the ancient cultures of Mexico/Mesoamerica. Reviewers appreciated that the explanatory text features English translations. The museum is so extensive that many travelers said you can spend a whole day exploring the many collections and exhibits and recommend giving yourself plenty of time to visit. As one of the largest and most visited museums in Mexico, the grounds are also home to a gift shop, a cafeteria and the National Library of Anthropology and History. 

Bosque de Chapultepec Bosque de Chapultepec free

The main park in Mexico City, Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Forest) was once the temporary home of the Aztec empire after its citizens migrated to modern-day Mexico City in the 13th century. Today, the 1,600-acre Chapultepec is Mexico City's largest park and is popular among families seeking respite from the busy and crowded city.

Divided into three sections, the park is home to many cultural interests, such as the presidential residence, the former presidential palace, a zoo and several museums (including the highly recommended Museo Nacional de Antropología ). The park also hosts numerous military monuments and effigies of Aztec kings, as well as restaurants and playgrounds, plus lots of green space for stretching. What's more, the park features a large lake, where visitors and locals alike can rent pedal boats to cruise around the water (a particular highlight for kids). On the weekends, local vendors fill the park and sell everything from souvenirs to art to snacks.

Palacio de Bellas Artes Palacio de Bellas Artes free

Considered the cultural center of Mexico City, the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts) is a must-visit. The exterior of this 20th-century palace showcases art nouveau and art deco-style architecture, while the inside features marble floors and vaulted glass windows. 

In addition to its architectural grandeur, the building hosts cultural events in the national theater, including music, dance, theater, opera and literary performances. The museum at the palace also houses several famous murals, including the work of the famous Mexican muralist Rufino Tamayo. On the top floor, you'll find the National Museum of Architecture, which showcases the work and lives of famous Mexican architects, and multiple art museums and galleries. 

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Hot Air Balloon Flight over Teotihuacan, from Mexico City

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Xochimilco, Coyoacán & Frida Kahlo Museum

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Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Zócalo attracts throngs of visitors and locals, so visit in the early morning or afternoon during a weekday to avoid the heaviest crowds. – Kayla Hui

Officially known as Plaza de la Constitución, El Zócalo is the main public square and one of the most recognizable places in Mexico City. It’s also one of the world’s largest city squares. It contains a giant Mexican flag at its center and has been the centerpiece of public gatherings since the days of the Aztec empire (it was considered the ceremonial center of Tenochtitlán). The site also hosts annual, widely attended religious events during Holy Week and for Corpus Christi, as well as fairs, concerts, and parades. Several historic buildings also border the square, including the city's national cathedral , the National Palace  and federal buildings.

Museo Frida Kahlo Museo Frida Kahlo

One of the best-known museums in Mexico City exhibits the life and work of its most famous artist: Frida Kahlo. The museum, located in the Coyoacan suburb, is also known as La Casa Azul (The Blue House), and was Kahlo's former residence. It hosts some impressive examples of her works, but travelers say that the best part of visiting the house is seeing where the artist lived and painted with her husband, artist Diego Rivera. Along with paintings by both artists, folk art, photos, documents, books and furnishings, the house also displays personal objects.

Recent visitors to the property said it's a must-see for fans of the artist, saying it shows her life and work in a very personal light. Reviewers were particularly impressed with the display of her clothing and dresses. If you want to take photos, there is an additional modest “permit” fee. 

Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe free

U.S. News Insider Tip: During the summer months, pack a hat and water bottle (there is little shade within the complex). If you plan to use the bathroom on site, bring a couple of pesos with you to use the bathroom and buy toilet paper. – Kayla Hui 

The Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe (Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe) is an important religious site in Mexico City. Construction for the first shrine built to honor the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe started in 1695 on Tepeyac Hill. However, nearly 300 years' worth of construction and environmental damage threatened the integrity of the basilica, so a new basilica was built on the same plaza in the 1970s.

Templo Mayor Templo Mayor

Before Spanish colonization, Templo Mayor served as the religious center for the Aztec people. When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the early 16th century, the temple was among many structures that were destroyed and a new cathedral was built on top of the ruins. It wasn't until 1978 that the temple dedicated to the Aztec gods Huitzilopochtli and Tláloc (gods of war and water) was unearthed in the heart of Mexico City. Today, the area remains an active archeological site and the adjoining museum houses thousands of  artifacts, including 2,500 wooden objects from the site. 

Recent visitors said it's fascinating to see the ancient ruins that are tucked away in the center of the city. Many said it's worth spending time in the museum as well, but the site and scale can't match up to the massive Museo Nacional de Antropología . Still, the whole complex has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Mexico City's most popular attractions. If you’re visiting during the summer months, travelers suggest you time your visit for the morning to avoid the sweltering midday heat. Reviewers also warn that most of the information is listed in Spanish only.

Museo de Arte Popular Museo de Arte Popular

U.S. News Insider Tip: Ditch the large bags and water bottles prior to your visit as you may be denied entry. – Kayla Hui

This folk art museum features handicrafts from all across Mexico and details the country's history and its many cultures. If you want to find out more about the country’s indigenous communities, this is the place to go, according to travelers. Exhibits include glasswork from Tecali, pottery from Michoacán, masks from Chiapas and alebrijes , the colorful painted animal figures from Oaxaca, among other treasures. Make sure to take time to admire the building itself – the 1920s art deco building was the former headquarters of the fire department.

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Chalpultepec Castle Chalpultepec Castle

U.S. News Insider Tip: Sundays are free for all residents of Mexico and expats living in Mexico, so try to avoid visiting that day if you can. It can get crowded, so it’s recommended to go in the morning when the castle first opens. – Kayla Hui

Constructed beginning in 1725, Chalpultepec Castle has served many purposes in its centuries of use; it was a military academy, an observatory, and the only castle in North America to house rulers, including Emperor Maximilian I and his wife Empress Carlota. It would later be established as the National Museum of History by Lázaro Cárdenas in 1939, which would open the castle to visitors. Located at the entrance of Chalpultepec Park , it’s a historical site that can’t be missed on your next visit to Mexico City. 

Catedral Metropolitana Catedral Metropolitana free

Mexico's national cathedral – the vaulting, austere, ornate church on the Zócalo' s north end – was once the site of an ancient Aztec precinct, so it has housed the city's spiritual core for centuries. The cathedral was built between 1573 and 1813 after the Spanish conquest of Tenochtitlan and is considered one of Mexico City's many must-see attractions. What’s more, the cathedral is one of the largest churches in Latin America. It’s believed that the materials used to construct the church were taken from the destroyed pyramids and structures belonging to the Aztecs. Highlights of the massive cathedral include five naves, 14 chapels, two of the largest 18th-century organs in the Americas, 150 windows and a painting by famed Spanish artist Bartolome Esteban Murillo.

Depending on your interest in Mexican history and architecture, you could spend anywhere from an hour to a half a day at the cathedral (it’s free to enter). Past visitors recommended paying to take a tour of the interior with a member of the cathedral’s staff, who reviewers say offer a wealth of information about the cathedral’s far-reaching history. According to recent visitors, tours cost approximately 100 Mexican pesos (about $6). Recent visitors said the massive structure is stunning to behold, and even if you don't want to take the time to explore the inside, it's worth the photo-op of the exterior. The cathedral is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and admission is free. Many of the best Mexico City walking tours make stops here, which can be another way to hear an in-depth retelling of the cathedral’s history and significance.  For more information, including Mass times, visit the cathedral's website (in Spanish).

Museo Soumaya Museo Soumaya free

From exceptional architecture to more than 66,000 featured works, Museo Soumaya is one of Mexico City’s most iconic museums. Established in 1994, Museo Soumaya’s main goal is to preserve and exhibit Mexico and Europe’s artistry. Currently, it houses the largest collection of works by Auguste Rodin outside of France, in addition to artwork by Diego Rivera, Titian, Picasso, Monet and more. 

Beyond the art, the architecture alone is worth seeing. The exterior of the six-story building is wrapped in mirrored hexagons, and the building is the brainchild of Mexican architect Fernando Romero. Recent travelers say Museo Soumaya is reminiscent of New York City’s Guggenheim (both museums are architecturally stunning and feature a circular interior with each floor organized by art type). Some reviewers recommend starting your visit at the top and winding your way down. 

Palacio Nacional Palacio Nacional free

The National Palace holds the federal executive branch of the Mexican government and sits along Mexico City's main public square, El Zócalo . The palace itself is a massive, ornate building that contains several gardens, murals and fountains in the Spanish Renaissance architectural style. Its highlights are several Diego Rivera murals painted in panoramic style across the palace's walls, which past visitors say are a must-see. These murals depict the stages of Mexican history, from pre-Columbian days to the current age.

Because the Mexican president lives and works within the palace, visitors can only access the site on a guided tour. Tours are free, but can’t be booked in advance online. According to recent visitors, you must go to the ticket office at the Museum of Art of the Ministry of Finance & Public Credit, where you can inquire about tour availability and make reservations in person (this is also where tours depart from). Some reviewers reported success booking tickets in advance by emailing [email protected] with information about the preferred tour date and number of people attending. Along the approximately hourlong tours, you’ll see the Rivera mural collections and the courtyards. You may also get the chance to glimpse the exterior of the legislative chambers. 

Museo Casa Luis Barragán Museo Casa Luis Barragán

Luis Barragán was a prominent Mexican architect renowned for his modernist style, and his former home – which was first constructed in 1947 and now functions as a museum – is one of the finest examples of his work. The museum is an off-the-beaten-path attraction that travelers say will please all, even those not schooled in architectural history. The house is known for its vivid colors, brilliant use of natural light and its impressive garden with a maze of corridors and trees. In 2004, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Recent visitors said the history of the house, in addition to its interesting architecture, is captivating. However, a handful of recent reviewers were disappointed with the ticket reservation process. To visit, you must book a self-guided or guided tour (available in Spanish and English). Self-guided visits are only available on Thursdays at select times. Tickets for self-guided tours cost 450 Mexican pesos (about $26) per person (note that children 12 and younger are not permitted in the house). Guided tours are available at select times Monday through Wednesday, Friday and Saturday Tickets for guided tours cost more. Tickets are released every Tuesday at noon (Mexico City time).  

Teotihuacan Private Tour from Mexico City

(1097 reviews)

from $ 126.25

Balloon Flight in Teotihuacan with Breakfast in Natural Cave

(271 reviews)

from $ 138.14

Private City Tour in Frida Kahlo, Coyoacan, and Xochimilco

(313 reviews)

from $ 175.00

Torre Latinoamericana Torre Latinoamericana

Open since 1956, Torre Latinoamericana, the 44-story skyscraper in Centro Histórico, is the place to go if you want the best views of the city. Similar to the Empire State Building in New York City , this tower offers visitors jaw-dropping views from its observation deck and restaurant, making it the perfect opportunity to pull out your camera for that Instagram-worthy picture. 

Recent visitors recommended heading up to the top of the tower during sunset to admire the shifting light as it illuminates buildings like the neighboring Palace of Fine Arts. Travelers also warned that if smog levels are high, you won’t be able to see much from the tower’s peak. Some reviewers recommend spending time in the on-site museum, which details the history of Mexico City and the construction of the tower. 

Teotihuacán Teotihuacán

U.S. News Insider Tip: There is no shade inside the archeological site, so you’ll want to wear a hat. It’s also helpful to have a small backpack to hold a water bottle, sunscreen and toilet paper to use in the washrooms at the site. – Kayla Hui

One of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Mexico City region, Teotihuacán ( teh -o-tee-wa- can ) contains some of the largest pre-Hispanic pyramids in all of Mexico. The site contains many popular constructions, including the Palace of the Plumed Butterfly, which showcases various columns of winged creatures, and the awesome Pyramid of the Sun, which sits at the heart of the small city. The nearby museum, Museo de la Sitio, also holds many artifacts from the period.

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) free

The Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico (Central University City Campus of the National University of Mexico) includes 32 academic programs, the Mexican Olympic stadium, a Mexican cultural center, a nature preserve and the city's Central Library. The main campus is now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city's famous muralists have made their mark on the campus, and travelers recommend you check out the work of famous painter David Alfaro Siqueiros at the Rectorate Tower or the work of Juan O'Gorman at the Central Library. The campus also holds the University Museum of Contemporary Art, an excellent spot for viewing Mexico's more recent cultural offerings. The sculpture garden at the art museum is a particular highlight for past visitors, as is the botanic garden.

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The Trends in Travel

A cultural guide to Mexico City

Be pulled in by the magnetism of this effortlessly cool and charismatic city, where ancient sites meet cutting-edge art and design

About Mexico City

Language: Spanish Time zone: UTC-6 (CST) Currency: Mexican peso (MXN)

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Ages 0 to 17

It’s hard to imagine now, but much of Mexico City’s urban sprawl was once a lake, drained by the Spanish as part of their conquest. Today, the city’s “three cultures” are literally layered on top of each other: ancient Aztec buildings below Spanish-colonial architecture, beside buildings constructed after independence in 1821.  

Amid all this, CDMX, as it’s often called, has a vibrant present, with the once-maligned Mexican capital earning its place as an “It” destination among in-the-know travelers. And for good reason: It’s now a buzzing cultural juggernaut, packed with museums and galleries, world-class taquerias and innovative restaurants, a vibrant film and fashion scene, live music, and irrepressible street life. Whether you come for an activity-packed weekend or a more leisurely visit, there’s almost too much to fit in, so your first trip is unlikely to be your last.  

Art & architecture

Cover 400 years of Mexican architecture in one square block, drinks included: Start at the Palacio de Bellas Artes , which combines art nouveau, art deco and neoclassical styles, and is renowned for its murals by Diego Rivera and his contemporaries. Across the street is Correo Mayor , the central post office: Don’t mail anything (Mexico’s postal service is terrible), but do go inside to enjoy the extraordinary gilded architecture. Down the block, head up to the 44th floor open-air viewing platform of Torre Latino (the building may remind you of New York’s Empire State), which offers a spectacular way to orient yourself and see how Mexico’s chaotic mix of architectural history coexists. Either have a snack and a drink there, or go around the corner to the Casa de los Azulejos, a tile-encrusted baroque marvel that happens to serve very solid enchiladas. 

For contemporary galleries and other handsome buildings, visit Roma Norte (where you’ll find Maia and OMR ), and San Miguel Chapultepec (for Kurimanzutto , JO-HS and more). Meanwhile, architecture and design fans should add Casa Luis Barragán in Colonia Ampliación to their itineraries. The 1948 abode served as the home and studio of Luis Barragán, the Pritzker Prize-winner who revolutionized modern architecture in Mexico by incorporating traditional elements such as bright colors and textures. And no cultural exploration of Mexico City would be complete without a visit to Casa Azul, the former home of artist-turned-pop-culture icon Frida Kahlo, now a museum. Be sure to book your tickets in advance.  

Expert tips

The essentials

Fly to Mexico City International Airport (MEX). The Line 4 Metrobus from terminals 1 and 2 takes 30 minutes to reach the city center. A 10% tip after a meal is standard. Tipping is not expected for street food, but a simple “keep the change” gesture would be appreciated. Mexico City is the largest Spanish-speaking city in the world; “ hola ” (hello) and “ gracias ” (thank you) are useful starting phrases.

Getting around

The cheapest way to quickly get around the city is via the Metro. If you are a female traveler, consider using the first two carriages, which are reserved for women and children. Another affordable option is the MetroBús. Purchase a smartcard at Metro vending machines ahead of boarding. Taxis and ride-hailing apps also operate in Mexico City, and are the most convenient and popular method of getting around. Many of Mexico City’s neighborhoods are best explored on foot, particularly Roma and Condesa. Regina and San Jerónimo streets in the center are fully pedestrianized and stay open late.

Accessibility

There are no elevators in Metro stations, making accessibility limited. The Metrobús is free for passengers with disabilities, and is accessible. Several top attractions like Zócalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and many museums are accessible. The National Museum of Anthropology offers facilities for visually impaired visitors, including audio guides and tactile exhibits.

Zona Rosa (the Pink Zone) is a popular LGBTQ+ neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, bars, and LGBTQ+-friendly establishments. Mexico City Pride, known as Marcha del Orgullo, takes place in June with a lively parade along Reforma Avenue.

Food & drink

Mexico City has great food at every price point. Be aware that lunch is the main meal of the day (some restaurants don’t open for dinner) and tends to start at 2–3 p.m. For street tacos, try suadero (brisket slow-cooked in lard) at Los Cocuyos , and pastor at Los Parados . If you prefer to sit while you eat, Coyoacán Market near the Frida Kahlo museum is a tourist-friendly destination with delicious food of all kinds. For a more luxurious experience, seek out Contramar for seafood and chef Enrique Olvera’s Pujol for a modernist take on cuisines from all regions of Mexico. For food that’s not really Mexican but is popular with Mexicans, try Rosetta (modern Italian in a gorgeous space) and Meroma (contemporary, eclectic, ingredient driven). 

For club sounds, try Departamento (note: It gets busy), or Fünk . Live salsa can be found at venues including Mama Rumba and Salon San Luis . At the latter, keep a note of what you drink: Sometimes the waiters’ math skills are less than perfect, though the musicians are always on point. Mexico City also has several major festivals with international acts in spring and autumn, including Corona Capital , Vive Latino , and Ceremonia . 

Hamish Anderson

Hamish Anderson is a culture writer specializing in food and travel. His work has appeared in T Magazine , the Wall Street Journal , Elle and Saveur . He is based between Mexico City and Brooklyn. 

KEY NEIGHBORHOODS

Roma/Condesa

While Colonia Juárez is the city’s current “It” neighborhood, you’ll find a nice assortment of boutique hotels and inns in these two adjacent parts of town. They’re also fashionable, walkable, and packed with galleries, concept shops, record stores, restaurants, bars and parks. (The southern part of Roma may also look familiar if you saw the film of the same name, which was shot there.) Stay at Hotel San Fernando near Condesa’s Parque México: Built as apartments in 1947, it retains many of the original deco-inspired architectural details that are emblematic of the neighborhood. Bonus: The rooftop bar is a nice modernizing touch. 

where to stay

Hotel San Fernando

Iztacchihuatl 54, Colonia Hipodromo, 06100

UTOPIC Roma Norte by ULIV

227 Colima Roma Norte, 06700

Rather than a neighborhood, this is one of Mexico City’s main boulevards, housing many of the big international hotels such as the Marriott, Four Seasons , Sheraton , Sofitel , and the Ritz-Carlton, which is notable for its spectacular views of the city (even if you don’t stay there, do visit the 38th-floor sky bar for a sunset drink). Reforma also gives you easy access to museums such as the Tamayo and the National Museum of Anthropology , plus many neighborhoods of interest, from the swanky Polanco to the bohemian Juárez.  

Mexico City Marriott Reforma Hotel

Paseo De La Reforma 276 Col Juàrez, 06600

The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City

Avenida Paseo de la Reforma 509, Cuauhtemoc, 6500

Centro Historico  

Mexico City’s historic center combines notable tourist sites with contemporary commerce and street life. There’s plenty to see, from archeological excavations to a host of murals. It’s fascinating but can be overwhelming, so stay somewhere like the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico, which feels like an oasis of calm despite its central location. One of the city’s most beautiful, the hotel is housed in a gorgeous art-nouveau building featuring a stunning stained-glass lobby ceiling and rooftop restaurant overlooking the Zócalo (Main Square).

Zocalo Central & Rooftop Mexico City

Cinco de Mayo 61, Centro Histórico, 06000

Gran Hotel Ciudad De Mexico

16 de Septiembre 82, Centro Histórico, 06000

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Mexico City travel guide: art and design

Modern vibrancy, design legacy and ancient heritage puts Mexico's jewel alongside other art capitals of the world

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Being in Mexico City feels, I imagine, like being in Paris in the 1920s, or London in the 1960s: at the epicentre of a new world. 

Art, design, music, fashion, food… Mexico's thriving capital wasn't named Time Out's 2023 top cultural destination in the world for nothing. A high-altitude valley ringed by mountains is an appropriately dramatic setting for a megalopolis built on ancient ruins: the famed Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. Even for this lifelong Londoner, the sheer scale of Mexico City is dizzying. I was grateful for the 17th-floor rooftop restaurant of my hotel, the Andaz Mexico City Condesa : its 360-degree views of the city, with the high rises of the bohemian La Condesa neighbourhood reflected in the infinity pool, offer a way to get your bearings. 

There's so much to do in a city of over 20 million people that it's best to narrow your focus. With its 170 museums, innumerable galleries, a world-famous annual art fair, architectural history and punchy street murals, the home of Frida Kahlo sits deservedly alongside Rome or Barcelona as an art capital of the world. If you know your avant-garde from your art deco, this is the city for you. 

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What to see and do

Warm colours welcome you to the house of famed architect Luis Barragán

The newly opened hotel, Andaz's second in Mexico and 25th globally, is inspired by the work of famed Mexican architect Luis Barragán, so it would be spurious not to begin with Casa Estudio Luis Barragán , the studio-turned-museum of the 20th-century titan, 10 minutes' walk away.

The nearly intact 1948 building is considered one of the most important 20th-century homes. It blends modern landscaping with light, colour and clever use of corners to bring the outdoors inside, emblematic of Barragán's style. This stylish-but-soothing Unesco World Heritage Site, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, will give you the worst kind of interior design envy – and that's to say nothing of its art collection, with works by Picasso and homegrown Diego Rivera. The warm, glowing pink walls make Farrow & Ball's Dead Salmon look like… well, dead salmon. 

Head around the corner to the tiny Kurimanzutto , a large warehouse room that's one of Mexico City's trendiest galleries and contemporary art spaces, showcasing 33 international artists.

Next, walk via the artificial 19th-century lake to another of the many artistic offerings in the bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec forest): the National Museum of Anthropology . It's an ode to the country's rich pre-Hispanic history, and one of the world's foremost archaeological museums. Contemporary art lovers also shouldn't miss the Museo de Arte Moderno (MAM) or nearby Rufino Tamayo Museum.

If street art is preferred, the tree-lined nextdoor neighbourhood of La Roma is home to a corner of delight: La Romita. A little plaza and its adjoining tiny cobbled streets are plastered in the type of spontaneous murals most cities would commission at great cost. The brightness of the colours, and the ambition of the murals, contrast with the shabby, pre-gentrified village vibe. 

Walking around the shaded avenues of Roma Norte and La Condesa gives design fans something to look at. There seems to be some sort of local competition for the most attractive, art nouveau-style security bars on the windows, usually ringed by bright colours beloved of Mexicans or a dramatic flourish of flowers. 

It's a fair way south from artistic La Condesa, but a must-see is the Frida Kahlo Museum . Her Casa Azul (Blue House) was home to arguably the most famous female artist of all time – and certainly, the international face of Mexico – as well as tempestuous Diego Rivera, who she married twice, or one of their many lovers. 

It's hard to describe the sensation of seeing her familiar work in the context of her cobalt home. Looking out from her bedroom window to her lush jungle of a garden, or standing by her painting table to see your own face in the mirror, surrounded by her pre-Columbian artefacts, European antiques and Mexican folk art, as well as her crutches and carefully adapted indigenous costumes that hid her broken body is like a glimpse inside her mind. 

A word of warning: you have to buy your tickets (270 Mexican pesos, or about £12.50) via the official website, at least a week in advance. If you do not have the right ticket for the correct time slot, you won't get in, even if you are a reincarnation of Kahlo herself. 

Don't try to visit Frida Kahlo's Blue House without booking in advance

Casa de Cultura Romita, in the trendy La Roma neighbourhood

Where to stay: Andaz Mexico City Condesa

Even pillars in the rooms are given an artistic makeover at Andaz

Andaz, a luxury boutique brand, is a Hindi word for "personal style". Andaz Mexico City Condesa can attest to that. 

The neon-lit mirrored staircase that goes up to the lobby is outrageously flamboyant, while the lobby itself is understated elegance in soothing earthy colours, neatly encapsulating the two faces of this hotel. 

Downstairs there are little touches like QR codes with information about the contemporary artwork and a discreetly tucked away Pasa Spa & Wellness centre, where you can have one of the most effective massages I've ever experienced. 

The relaxed Derba Matcha Café is a popular spot for young professionals for a smoothie or latte. The warm pastel velvets, plentiful plants and pastries are an influencer's paradise. The chef claims his concoctions are better than any you can get in Paris, which I put to the test.

The compact, ultra-modern rooms are also everything you'd expect from five-star boutique luxury: off-the-charts thread counts, sophisticated lighting systems and gleaming marble bathrooms. But the designers evidently had fun, with the bright pink obelisk and the vinyl records that seemed to have been chosen for their tantalising covers. 

The Tulum beach-style 17th-floor Cabuya Rooftop , a boho bar and restaurant, is accessible via a bright pink geometric-patterned lift. The walls are covered with vibrant murals by artist Edoardo Aldama: whales, turtles, octopuses and seabirds in primary colours, lit by lanterns dangling from the foliage ceiling. 

This is a destination: a place to be seen. The seafood-dominated menu, inspired by the flavours of the Baja and Yucatán regions, make it too compelling to leave. I particularly adored the sweet and sour octopus and fresh ceviche . 

The hotel goes on an unexpected tangent with its 'Wooftop' Beer Garden & Canine Club, a dog-friendly restaurant with a terrace. You can sip a beer and enjoy some nachos or a blackened fish taco, made in a street-food truck, while your pampered pooch sits on a bean bag next to you. There's also a doggy exercise area and – you'd have to see it to believe it – a special dog menu serving "vegan barkcini", non-alcoholic "beer for dogs" and the "woof slider" of ground beef, rice and beet. 

It's the kind of place a certain type of influencer would come to celebrate their dog's birthday – out-of-place kitsch, but very fun.

While this hotel might not be right for honeymooners or families with young kids, it's ideal for trendy professionals, fashion designers or bohemian art lovers.

Andaz Condesa's rooftop infinity pool offers the best view of the megalopolis

How to get there

There are direct flights from London to Benito Juárez International Airport, with British Airways or Virgin Atlantic, but at nearly 12 hours it's a big ask. Stop off en route on Mexico's east coast – direct flights from all over the UK will get you to Cancún in just over 10 hours – and fend off the jet lag on the beach. 

Then it's just a 2.5-hour flight west to Mexico City, and a short cab or subway ride into the city. 

Harriet Marsden was a guest of Andaz Mexico City Condesa , and luxury tour operator, Untold Story Travel , which offers bespoke travel experiences to Mexico and destinations around the world. 

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Harriet Marsden is a writer for The Week, mostly covering UK and global news and politics. Before joining the site, she was a freelance journalist for seven years, specialising in social affairs, gender equality and culture. She worked for The Guardian, The Times and The Independent, and regularly contributed articles to The Sunday Times, The Telegraph, The New Statesman, Tortoise Media and Metro, as well as appearing on BBC Radio London, Times Radio and “Woman’s Hour”. She has a master’s in international journalism from City University, London, and was awarded the "journalist-at-large" fellowship by the Local Trust charity in 2021. 

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Stories by Soumya

The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

Best 4 Days In Mexico City Itinerary For Culture Vultures

Last Updated on December 10, 2023 by Soumya

If you’re planning to spend 4 days in Mexico City , then you’re at the right place.

In this unique, culture-filled travel itinerary, we will explore all the best things to do in Mexico City in 4 days.

From ancient ruins to modern art galleries, delicious street food to Michelin-star restaurants, and colorful markets to floating gardens, Mexico City has something for everyone .

With so much to do, is 4 days in Mexico City enough?

Short answer. Yes, it is absolutely enough to get started.

As someone who has lived in and explored CDMX several times, I can tell you that a 3 – 4 day Mexico City itinerary is a great place to start.

If you plan carefully a.k.a read and stick to this itinerary, then you can cover a lot of ground in 4 days. Mexico City, despite its size, is easy to explore if you split it into neighborhoods. And, that’s exactly what I have done here.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this post. This will be at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help me keep this website up and running. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

4 Day Itinerary Mexico City: A Quick Look

Day 1 – Historic Center (History, Art, Food, Museums) Day 2 – Teotihuacan (Pyramids & Balloon Ride) Day 3 – Coyoacan & Xochimilco (Frida Kahlo & Floating Gardens) Day 4 – Chapultepec Park & Castle

Best Mexico City 4 Day Itinerary for Culture Vultures

This 4-day Mexico City itinerary is full of history and culture. If you are a history buff and wondering what to do in Mexico City in 4 days, then this guide is for you.

Day 1 (4 Day Mexico City Itinerary): Historic Center, Food, Museums

Start your four days in Mexico City with a tour of Centro Historico , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of Mexico’s capital.

Spend the Morning at Zocalo

Begin your first day at the famous public square called El Zocalo, also one of the largest in the world.

Officially called “Plaza de la Constitucion”, the Zocalo has been the venue for all kinds of festivities and ceremonies ever since the time of the Aztecs.

Several important buildings and monuments surround the Zocalo. Here are the 3 most important ones that you cannot miss.

• Metropolitan Cathedral : This is the most impressive building at the Zocalo. Built in a combination of Baroque and Renaissance architecture, the cathedral has exquisitely-carved exteriors and gilded interiors. An interesting fact is that you will see a Black Christ here who is believed to possess miraculous healing abilities.

• Ruins of Templo Mayor : If you are looking for Aztec ruins in Mexico City , then you can find one right here in the historic center. The ruins of Templo Mayor were once the heart of Aztec life and culture in ancient Tenochtitlan. Today, you can see the ruins of a main pyramid, a skull rack, colorful murals, and several Aztec artifacts at the Templo Mayor Museum.
• National Palace: The majestic palace is the office of the Mexican President and home to some of the most beautiful Diego Rivera murals including the famous “History of Mexico”. You can visit only with a guided tour. Find out how to do that in my National Palace Guide .

✦ Pro Tip : Over several visits to Mexico City , I have realized that doing a guided walking tour is absolutely the best way to see the historic center especially if it is your first time in Mexico City. ↳Click here to check out the best Historic Center Tour now.

Best Places for Lunch in Centro Historico

If you are looking for tacos, try them at one of Mexico City’s famous taco joints – Los Cocuyos or El Huequito . These taco joints are open round the clock if you need a quick refill.

Another great place to have lunch in the historic center is Cafe de Tacuba , which has remained unchanged ever since it opened its doors in 1912.

Cafe de Tacuba is housed in a former convent and serves recipes that have not changed over generations. Décor comprises of Talavera pottery , brass chandeliers, and colonial art work.

Eating a meal at Café de Tacuba is almost like stepping back 100 years in history.

More Art and Culture in Historic Center

After a filling lunch, head to the western edge of Centro Historico where you will find several colonial-era buildings, art museums, and palaces.

On this private tour of Mexico City , you will visit several of these colonial palaces and learn about life in colonial times.

Here are some of the unmissable sights in this area.

• Palacio de Bellas Artes : The Fine Arts Palace is one of the prettiest buildings in the historic center and home to a permanent collection of Mexican murals including many by Diego Rivera. This is the place to get rich insights into Mexican fine arts including dance, music, and literature.

• Palacio Postal : Another stunning palace that is usually not part of Mexico City itineraries is the Postal Palace. The marble and bronze stairway in the middle of the building is unmissable.
• Casa de los Azulejos : Covered in white, blue, and yellow tiles, the House of Azulejos in Mexico City center was once the abode of a noble. Today, it is home to a full-service restaurant called the Sanborns as well as an interesting mural by José Clemente Orozco, a glass ceiling atrium, and several stone pillars.
• National Museum of Art : Yet another beautiful palatial structure is the National Museum of Art, also known as MUNAL . Come here for Mexican art produced between the 16th and 20th centuries as well as some stunning staircases.
• Alameda Central : Tired at the end of all the sightseeing on the first day of your 4 days Mexico City itinerary? Head to Alameda Central, a sprawling public park right in the middle of Mexico City, and relax.

Evening in the Historic Center

You can spend your evening on Plaza Garibaldi enjoying live music and listening to mariachi bands on this wonderful Garibaldi night tour .

Or do a private night taco tour where you dig into several varieties of tacos and taste some mezcal too.

If you would rather have a quiet evening, head to Torre Latinoamericana , Mexico City’s tallest skyscraper, for a drink at the Level 40 Sky Bar and some stunning views of the city.

📖 Related Read : If you’re planning to spend more than four days in Mexico City, then you’ll love this epic collection of 20 Best Things to do in Mexico City’s Historic Center .

Day 2 (4 Day Mexico City Itinerary): Teotihuacan Pyramids

One of the best things to do in Mexico City is to visit the incredible pyramids of Teotihuacan. Located only a hop away from Mexico City, these ancient pyramids are every history lover’s dream.

The ancient city of Teotihuacan was built around 200 BCE, rose to supreme power in 400 CE, and was abandoned between the 6th and 7th century CE.

Today, Teotihuacan is one of Mexico’s most visited UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

The ancient Mexican pyramids of the Sun and the Moon are the highlights of a Teotihuacan visit . And so are the Temple of the Feathered Serpent and the Palace of Itzpapalotl.

✦ Pro Tip : Arrive here early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat. The site is open from 9am – 3pm, Monday – Sunday.

Note that, unlike many other archaeological sites in Mexico, Teotihuacan is not closed on Mondays .

Best things to do in Teotihuacan

Here’s a brief overview of the best things to see in Teotihuacan. I highly recommend reading through my detailed Teotihuacan travel guide for all the details.

• Monumental route : Walk down the Avenue of Dead and visit the Temple of Feathered Serpent and the Citadel, see the monumental Sun Pyramid (the Sun Pyramid is no longer open to climbing), explore the ruins of Itzapapalotl Palace, and discover the secrets of the Moon Pyramid. Also stop by the Teotihuacan Culture Museum. This is the most common itinerary for Teotihuacan.
• Mural route : Includes the Jaguar mural, Palace of Itzapapalotl, Tepantitla architectural complex, and the Beatriz de la Fuente Mural Museum (located a little further away from the main complex).
• The mural route complements the Monumental route very well. Very often, people just stop at the monuments but there’s so much to be discovered at the murals including rich snippets of Teotihuacan life and culture .

Best Teotihuacan tours

Whether it is about getting early access, seeing the pyramids from a hot air balloon , or learning all about this ancient pre-Hispanic site from a private archaeologist, Teotihuacan guided tours definitely have their advantages.

Here are some of the best Teotihuacan tours to include in your Mexico City 4 day itinerary.

• On this highly-rated Viator tour , you will enjoy early access to Teotihuacan ruins and the company of an archaeologist guide who will take you around the plazas and the murals. At the end of the tour, you will stop at an obsidian workshop and taste tequila, mezcal, and other local liqueurs. You can book the same tour on Get Your Guide here .
• This full-day excursion from Mexico City will take you to Teotihuacan as well as The Plaza of 3 Cultures in Tlatelolco. You will also stop at The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mexico’s largest religious sanctuary. The best part about this tour is the fact that you see three heritage sites in a day at a very affordable price .
• Who doesn’t love a hot air balloon ride, that too over the majestic pyramids of Teotihuacan! This hot air balloon ride includes 45 minutes of flying over the archaeological site, breakfast, honor toast, and diploma.

✦ Pro Tip : Want to see more options? Check out our post on the 13 Best Teotihuacan Tours from Mexico City

Where to eat in Teotihuacan?

You’ll find snack vendors and water at the entrance gates. I recommend carrying sufficient water with you if you plan to spend the entire day at the complex.

There are quite a few good (and unique) restaurants right outside the gates if you decide to step out.

• La Gruta : Housed in a cave, La Gruta is one of the most unique restaurants I have ever been to. You’d be literally eating traditional Mexican food in a candle-lit cave. They have been around for more than 100 years now with a cuisine inspired by pre-Hispanic cultures.
• Mayahuel Teotihuacan : Another great place to eat with stunning views of the Sun Pyramid from the terrace dining area. They serve delicious Mexican food and have lots of options to choose from.

How to get to Teotihuacan from Mexico City?

You can get to Teotihuacan in under an hour by using Mexico City’s public transportation . Taking Autobuses Teotihuacan from Terminal del Norte ( Google Maps ) is the easiest way to do it.

Or you can book one of the guided tours recommended above .

✦ Pro Tip : For more details, read our complete Mexico City to Teotihuacan day trip guide .

Day 3 (4 Day Mexico City Itinerary): Coyoacan & Xochimilco

On the third day of your 4 days Mexico City itinerary, head to the historical neighborhoods of Xochimilco and Coyocan .

Both Coyoacan and Xochimilco are located in the south of Mexico City. Therefore, they can be easily clubbed into a full-day trip.

The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco

The borough of Xochimilco is often called the “Venice of Mexico” because it is home to the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco .

If you have read my post on unbelievable facts about Mexico City , you will know that ancient Tenochtitlan was built on lakes .

The Aztecs used an extensive canal system to get around Tenochtitlan. Now, only a small section of these canals is left in Xochimilco. They are called Floating Gardens or the Chinampas, now a UNESCO site.

Xochimilco makes for a fun day trip from Mexico City . And in my opinion, a great addition to your 4 day itinerary of Mexico City.

What to do in Xochimilco?

At the Floating Gardens, you can ride on a trajinera, a colorful gondola.

Eat, drink, and be merry while listening to mariachi bands playing in the background and the humdrum of local Mexican families who often come to party here.

Visiting Xochimilco is one of the most touristy things to do in Mexico City. But hey, if you like people-watching and enjoy local culture, then why not?

Don’t let others stop you with their stories because this unique Mexican experience is worthy of being devoured.

📖 Related Read: Love day trips? Check out this epic list of the 22 best day trips from Mexico City , exclusive for culture lovers.

Coyoacan literally translates to the “Land of Coyotes”. Historians suggest that this area was full of coyotes in the Aztec times and that is how the name stuck.

You can still see a water fountain with the bronze statues of a pair of coyotes at Parque Centenario in the Coyoacan borough.

There are several interesting things to do in Coyoacan especially with its lovely collection of museums, churches, markets, and gardens.

• Coyoacan is home to a famous Mexico City landmark – Frida Kahlo’s Museum or The Blue House. This is exactly where Frida Kahlo lived and died. You will find many creations by Kahlo and Rivera, their personal items, and photographs at the museum.
• The church of San Juan Bautista is yet another unmissable Coyoacan attraction.
• If you haven’t shopped for Mexican souvenirs already and looking for a traditional market, head to Mercado de Coyoacan. From local handicrafts to food and grocery, this is the perfect place to buy Mexican goodies.

✦ Pro Tip : Weekends are crowded in Coyoacan since locals visit in large numbers. I recommend doing a weekday trip here if possible. But remember that the Frida Kahlo Museum is closed on Mondays.

Murals of UNAM

Another great addition to the third day of your Mexico City travel itinerary is the mural-covered wall of UNAM Central Library.

I know art lovers are going to love this. So, I could not help recommending it here.

The National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) is located just minutes away from Coyoacan.

The façade of the Central Library features one of the greatest murals in the world. It is called the Historical Representation of Mexican Culture. Painted by Mexican artist, Juan O’Gorman, the mural shows various epochs of Mexican history.

If you are looking for a tour that covers Xochimilco, Coyoacán, and UNAM, try this one . With knowledgeable tour guides and rave reviews, this private tour is worth it.

Best Xochimilco and Coyoacan tours

If you wish to avoid the hassles of public transport and taxis, book one of these popular guided tours and you will be all set for the day.

• This full-day tour takes you on a trip down Xochimilco’s canals, a tour of Coyoacan’s colonial neighborhood, and a visit to University City where you can admire the splendid murals. You can opt for visiting Frida Kahlo’s museum too. Travelers love this tour for their knowledgeable guides and authentic experience.
• On this highly-rated tour , you will explore the Blue House or Frida Kahlo’s House Museum with an expert art guide and learn all about the painter’s life and her many portraits.

How to get to Xochimilco and Coyoacan from Mexico City?

It is super easy to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City by train.

Get to the Tasquena Terminal on Metro Line 2 (blue color). From there you can take the Xochimilco Light Rail (Tren Ligero) to Xochimilco Terminal.

The ride takes about 35 minutes and costs 3 pesos (USD 0.15).

To get to Coyoacan, you need to get off at the General Anaya station on Line 2. A single ticket on the Mexico City metro costs 5 pesos (USD 0.25).

Alternatively, you can also use Uber which is pretty convenient and stress-free in Mexico City.

Day 4 (4 Day Mexico City Itinerary): Chapultepec Park & Castle

I have tried to keep the last day of this history-filled 4 days in Mexico City itinerary a little relaxed so that you do not tire yourself out before your travels the next day.

What better way to do so than by heading to Bosque de Chapultepec, a huge green park that functions as the lungs of Mexico City.

The best part about Chapultepec Park is that it is home to so many other interesting attractions.

One of my favorite museums – the National Anthropology Museum – is located inside the park.

Since Chapultepec Park is huge, it is divided into 3 sections.

• Section 1 has a big zoo, National Anthropology Museum, Modern Art Museum, Chapultepec Castle, and a lake with boating facilities.
• Section 2 has the amusement park, a children’s museum, and the Natural History Museum.
• The last Section 3 is all about wooded trails and wildlife.

Admission to Chapultepec Park is free but you need to pay if you wish to enter any of the attractions.

Sections 2 and 3 are open 7 days a week. Section 1 is open 5am – 7pm, Tuesday – Sunday but closed on Mondays.

You will want to keep this in mind when planning your Mexico City itinerary. If Day 4 falls on a Monday, I suggest that you shuffle things around.

Chapultepec Castle

One interesting place to visit inside Chapultepec Park is the Chapultepec Castle which also houses the National History Museum.

There aren’t many cities in the Americas that can boast of castles. After all, the Americas never had kings and kingdoms. 

But Mexico City is one special place in North America that has a legit castle that once housed European and Mexican sovereigns – the Chapultepec Castle. 

Built in the early 18th century, the Chapultepec Castle once housed the Viceroy of New Spain as well as Emperor Maximiliano.

It was here that six young men (Niños Héroes) died defending the castle during the American War.

The castle is also home to the National Museum of History with some exquisite artefacts from the time of Emperor Maximiliano and some incredible murals.

The museum is open from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Tuesday – Saturday. They are closed on Mondays .

Admission is 90 pesos. Check here for updated admission costs and hours.

Best Chapultepec park tours

• On this tour of Chapultepec Castle and Anthropology Museum , you will learn all about the life and time of Emperor Maximiliano and discover stunning European ornamentations. Then, you will visit the National Anthropology Museum where you explore the life and culture of Pre-hispanic people – the Mayas, the Aztecs, and the Toltecs.
• If you are looking for a private tour, here’s a good one that includes both Anthropology Museum and Chapultepec Castle and a knowledgeable tour guide.

How to get to Chapultepec Park?

Chapultepec Park is located about 5 miles (8km) southwest of Mexico City Historic Center.

A drive from the Historic Center to Chapultepec Park takes around 20 minutes. But with Mexico City’s crazy traffic, you never know.

A faster, more reliable, option is the metro. At Zocalo, hop on the Blue Line going towards Tasquena. Get off at Pino Suarez and board the Pink Line going towards Observatorio. Get off at Chapultepec or Juanacatlan and then, walk.

Interactive map for 4 days in Mexico City

More than 4 days in Mexico City?

Having more than 4 days in Mexico City is a great idea because there are so many amazing things to do here + tons of wonderful Mexico City day trips to take.

If your trip to Mexico City is going to be longer than four days, here are some more brilliant ideas of things to do.

• Take a day trip to Cholula (home to the largest pyramid in the New World), Puebla (for stunning architecture), and a Talavera factory. Or do a full-day tour of Taxco , a colonial town famous for silver mining and craftwork.
• Spend a day in the bohemian neighborhoods of Roma and Polanco. Polanco is replete with art galleries, museums, theaters, and some of the most renowned restaurants in Mexico City. Roma has a more hipster vibe with colorful street art, art deco buildings, charming boutiques, and cute cafes.
• If you have had enough of history and culture, try this highly-rated visit to Tolantongo Caves from Mexico City where you can relax in the thermal pools and hike through nature trails. Or maybe join this small, hiking group to Iztaccihuatl Volcano .

Where to stay for 4 nights in Mexico City?

Staying in the historic center when you are going to Mexico City for the first time is always a good idea because it is safe, beautiful, and convenient.

On Day 1 of your Mexico City trip itinerary, you don’t even need to travel much to get to your destination.

Plus, the center is well-connected with every other part of Mexico City through metro.

Here are some of my favorite and highly recommended places to stay in Mexico City for 4 days.

• Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico: This 5-star hotel is located right at the Zocalo, within walking distance from Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace. It is housed in a huge Art Nouveau building complete with a Tiffany stained-glass ceiling for the lobby. Just the perfect place to stay if you are a culture-geek and have some money to splurge. Check out some incredible pictures here .
• Kali Centro Mexico City: Modern décor, great breakfast, impeccable service, and stellar reviews are what Kali Centro is known for. It is located super close to the Palace of Fine Arts and Alameda Central. If you are looking for a budget option, then this is the perfect choice. Read more reviews here .
• Historico Central: Located in the heart of the city, Historico Central offers stunning views of Torre Latinoamericana. Some of the rooms have balconies too. Plus, they have a coffee shop service available for free to all their guests. Book your stay at Historico Central here .

Practical information for spending 4 days in Mexico City

Best time to visit Mexico City

The best time to visit Mexico City is during spring (March – May) and fall (September – November).

The weather is great and it is a good time to be out and about. I love this time because it is the best time for walking tours in Mexico City .

Winters can be chilly and summers are rainy in Mexico City.

If you don’t mind the summer heat and afternoon rains, June – August is a decent, more affordable time to visit Mexico City.

Getting to Mexico City

The best way is to fly into Mexico City International Airport and then take a taxi/metro/Metrobus from there.

If you want a private pick-up, here’s a reliable private transfer option that you can use.

Getting around Mexico City

It is easy to get around Mexico City by Metro and Metrobus.

Mexico City Metro consists of 12 lines and operates between 5:00 am – midnight. Each ride costs 5 pesos (USD 0.25). Use Mapaway App to navigate easily.

Metrobus consists of 7 lines that operate between 4:30 am – midnight. Each ride costs 6 pesos (USD 0.3).

Read our complete guide on the best ways to get around Mexico City by public transportation before arriving in CDMX.

Uber is affordable and convenient. We ended up using Uber quite a bit on our trip there.

But beware, traffic in Mexico City is nasty, especially during rush hours. Avoid traveling during the rush hours.

Highly Recommended Mexico City Tours

• One of my favorite places to visit when in Mexico City are the majestic pyramids of Teotihuacan. The best way to see them is on a hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan. Even this early-morning tour with an archaeologist guide and tequila tasting is extremely popular.
• Join this half-day food tour in the Historic Center of Mexico City and experience eating in a traditional Mexican canteen, street food stalls, as well as some popular restaurants.
• Book yourself a trajinera ride in a UNESCO heritage site and visit Frida Kahlo’s Museum on this full-day tour of Coyocan and Xochimilco .

Loved our 4 days Mexico City itinerary? Pin it for later!

You may also like:

• Why Visit Mexico City - 16 Epic Reasons Why You Need To
• Best One Day In Mexico City Itinerary For Culture Vultures
• Floating Gardens Of Xochimilco Mexico City - Best…

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Ultimate Mexico City Itinerary For 5 Days + Culture & Food!

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Hello and welcome to my Mexico City itinerary! This in-depth guide will help you have an unforgettable trip to Mexico’s capital, also known as CDMX, introducing you to the main attractions, coolest neighbourhoods, tantalising Mexican cuisine and more. At the time of writing, I’ve been in living in Mexico for six months. No doubt over the coming months and years (who knows long how I’ll stay?), I will enrich this Mexico City blog with even more tidbits and quirky corners of the capital as I discover them.

Use my 23 Mexico City travel tips during your trip!

CDMX should be on every traveller’s Mexico bucket list . I’d argue Mexico City is one of the world’s most underrated capitals. You can get immersed in hectic local markets and eat street food for pennies, explore museums rivalling those of Paris and New York, and dine from menus curated by top world chefs. Add hipster coffee shops, leafy parks, grand castles, ancient Mesoamerican ruins and vibrant nightlife to the mix? You’ve got a city like no other.

MEXICO CITY QUICK LINKS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Copy of Lonely Planet Mexico / Mexican Spanish phrasebook Activities: GetYourGuide Food tours: Eatwith Getting there: Skyscanner / Airport transfer Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads)

Is 5 days in Mexico City enough?

You may be wondering how many days are enough for Mexico City. In my opinion, you could spend way longer BUT five days in Mexico City is enough to explore the main neighbourhoods and take an iconic day trip that most travellers won’t want to miss. With less than 5 days, you’ll have to skip a few incredible areas of the city and that would be a shame!

Mexico City itinerary for 5 days

During this guide, we’re going to explore pretty neighbourhoods Roma and Condesa , big and busy Centro (the UNESCO historic centre), charming Coyoacan once home to artist Frida Kahlo, sleepy San Angel neighbourhood, Xochimilco (canal networks accessed by colourful boats), enormous Chapultepec Park and upmarket Polanco . I’ll share the must-visit attractions and travel tips for each area as we go. Since I’m a huge foodie, you’re going to be spoiled with eating recs! We’ll explore the following areas during this Mexico City itinerary…

Read next: a complete guide to solo travel in Mexico City

Where to stay during 5 days in Mexico City

There are cities where you could book a hotel anywhere without it making much difference. For Mexico City, I would recommend doing a bit of quick homework. Not only are many attractions located far from each other, but you wouldn’t want to grab a cheap room in a random area and feel unsafe.

Where to stay in Roma & Condesa

My preferred option! These neighbourhoods are near amazing restaurants and attractions, plus they’re quiet, friendly and safe for solo travel in Mexico . For cheaper prices, you could also check out nearby residential areas like Juarez , Escandon , Tacubaya and San Miguel Chapultepec .

• Budget hotel – Hotel Benidorm is clean and conveniently located with rooms from $50 .
• Mid-range – both Stanza and Block in the Roma area are 3* hotels around the $70 a night mark with gym and restaurant facilities.
• Treat – stay at La Palomilla in Condesa with rooftop balcony and fully equipped kitchen. Book from $140 . Another lovely boutique Condesa hotel that will impress architecture and design fans is ULIV from $130 .
• Apartments: check out Suites259 / Kukun / Deco House .
• Hostel – pick Hostel Home for a friendly base with colourful communal areas to meet other travellers. It’s on a quiet street just steps from all the cool cafes and restaurants of Calle Colima in Roma Norte. Book from $25 a night .

Where to stay in Centro

Many people stay centrally near the Zocalo but prepare for things to be very busy outside your door. If that’s not a problem, I would recommend Casa Pepe as a backpackers option. Travellers rave about this friendly base with a roof terrace – you’re likely to meet other travellers exploring Mexico. Another newer, highly-rated hostel is Viajero CDMX Centro with beds from $20 . For hotels, some decent budget options include Hotel Marlowe and One Ciudad de Mexico Alameda . To splash out, stay at Historico Central with a walking and coffee tour included! Zocalo Central is another great option with a gym and roof terrace.

Where to stay in Coyoacan

Coyoacan is also a lovely option but factor in extra time and money for taxis because it’s a little far out. Stay at Hostal Cuija Coyoacán ($24 a night) or Casa Tamayo ($62) on a budget, or treat yourself to 5* Hotel Agata Boutique & Spa ($190).

Browse all hotels on Booking.com and hostels on Hostelworld.com .

CDMX itinerary – quick overview

Day 1 – Teotihuacan (morning), Roma & Condesa (afternoon) Day 2 – Visit Centro. Don’t miss Palacio del Bellas Artes, Templo Mayor, Casa de los Azulejos, Palacio Postal, market shopping; Lucha Libre show (evening) Day 3 – Coyoacan & San Angel: Frida Kahlo Museum, Mercado de Coyoacan, Plaza de la Conchita. Day 4 – Chapultepec (Museum of Anthropology, Chapultepec Castle, Museo de Arte Moderno). Head to Polanco for the afternoon (Tane Store, Soumaya Museum). Day 5 – Xochimilco: trajinera tour. SO, let’s get stuck in…

Day 1 Mexico City itinerary – Teotihuacan / Roma & Condesa

Start your trip right with a trip to Teotihuacan, a vast archaeological complex that will take your breath away. Built in the year 200 AD, this enormous Mesoamerican site was the sixth-largest city in the world during its heyday. It features the enormous Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon connected to the other ruins by the dubiously named Avenue of the Dead. You can take an organised day trip or catch a public bus the 40kms from Mexico City to Teotihuacan. For an unforgettable experience, take a Teotihuacan hot air balloon ride.

Browse Teotihuacan tours with GetYourGuide . This early morning balloon ride and breakfast tour is the ultimate bucket lister.

Other tours: if the balloon ride is out of your budget, it’s easy to visit and learn about the pyramids as part of a guided tour. These include return transport to and from the city and the services of a knowledgeable guide. Some include a stop at Guadalupe Shrine or lunch in a cave restaurant on the way home. Browse all Teotihuacan tours .

Getting there without a tour: one option is to catch the local bus from Terminal del Norte (it’s best to take an Uber here as it’s quite far from the city centre). Expect to pay around 120 pesos for the return bus to the pyramids. Alternatively, call an Uber the whole way for around 800 pesos each way (worth it if there’s a few of you).

If you take a balloon tour, you’ll arrive back in Mexico City by 1pm. Spend the rest of the day relaxing in my favourite set of neighbourhoods…

Afternoon – Roma & Condesa

Welcome to my hood! Roma and Condesa neighbourhoods are home to countless brunch cafes, coffee shops, art galleries and parks. Add them to your Mexico City itinerary for a leisurely afternoon after Teotihuacan.

How to get around Roma and Condesa : These areas link together and can be explored by foot. You can walk anywhere in 30 minutes, or board an ecobici bike to speed things up (download the app and buy a day or week’s pass, or pay with a Metro card). If you’re arriving by Metro , the closest stations are: Centro Medico (exit for Roma), Chilpancingo (Roma South), Cuauhtémoc (Roma North), Patriotismo and Juanacatlán (Condesa). We’ll discuss CDMX public transport in detail later on.

Brunch or lunch

After your early start at the pyramids, you’ll likely be starving. Head to Freims in Condesa or Lalo in Roma Norte. Lalo is a hipster cafe with quirky murals on the walls and the best French toast ever. It’s always busy with shared tables so, if you’d rather a more upmarket brunch, try Lardo . The pancakes are unreal! Alternatively, eat chilaquiles (crispy tortilla chips topped with salsa, cheese, cream and a fried egg) at pretty Ojo de Aqua or relaxed Chilpa with build-your-own bowls.

If you’re just after a quick bite and strong coffee, visit Forte cafe and sink your teeth into a citrus almond croissant.

Read next: the best coffee shops in Mexico City

Things to do in Roma & Condesa

To continue your Mexico City itinerary, take a leisurely walk around Roma and Condesa. Start at Parque Mexico where you can take homeless but loveable pups for weekend walks. From here you can wander along Amsterdam , a tree-lined walkway that was once a horse racing track. Head over to Huerto Roma Verde , a community garden hosting everything from art exhibitions made from recycling to Hare Krishna festivals. I like the street art and sculptures as well as the pop-up cafes outside.

Roma markets

There’s so much to eat during five days in Mexico City so I’d recommend grazing little and often. Take a walk around Mercado Medellin to soak up the culture. This colourful Colombian market is packed with piñatas, crafts, local goods, fresh fruit, veg and flowers. Sample authentic Mexican food , ice cream and local beverages.

Another food market you can check out is Mercado de Roma . It’s not exactly authentic, more of a hipster market with pop-up stands from popular Roma and Condesa cafes. Prices are inflated but it’s a good option for slowly easing yourself into the street food.

Visiting Condesa on a Friday? Be sure to visit the Friday Market which runs along Campeche. Head to Cardinal Coffee House (Campeche 346) to find it across the road. Try the blue corn quesadillas or seafood tostadas.

Galleries in Roma & Condesa

Stroll Roma Norte (Roma North) which is one of the coolest parts of Mexico City. As well as leafy Plaza Río de Janeiro with its replica of Michelangelo’s  David , you can explore the art galleries and museums. These include the Object Museum which is an exploration of ourselves through everyday items (entrance is 60 pesos) and Galleria OMR , a contemporary gallery displaying work by Mexican and international artists. Other spots to check out include Mooni Gallery , the Salon of Mexican Fine Art , Casa Lamm and MAIA gallery inside Casa Basalta (all within walking distance in Roma Norte).

Evening options in Roma and Condesa

Dinner: Roma Norte is an atmospheric area for dinner. Check out Paramo and Tacobar for a wide range of tacos for all dietary requirements washed down with fab cocktails. Other popular spots include Contramar for seafood and famous fig tarts, Fonda Finca for upscale Mexican food, Butcher & Sons for amazing burgers and, of course, the famous Rosetta Restaurant . Street food : tuck into tacos at Tacos Frontera (treat your sweet tooth after across the road at El Moro , everyone’s favourite churreria). Keep reading for more taco places… Chilled drinks: Head for evening drinks at Jardín Chapultepec , a beer garden with excellent burgers and beers on tap. Cinema: I love Cine de Tonala , an arty cinema in Roma Sur which doubles up as a hipster cafe, bar and restaurant. Cinema tickets are only 70 pesos and excellent margaritas aren’t much more. Check if the night’s movies are showing in English. Nice bars: Consistently ranking in lists of top bars around the world, 1920s-themed Licorería Limantour serves classic cocktails with international flair. Another bar that will suit gin lovers is Gin Gin , a lively drinking spot known for mixing gin with coconut-infused tonic, rosemary, lime and more. Insider tip – head to nearby Juarez for all the coolest speakeasy bars like Handshake, Hanky Panky, Xaman, Parker & Lennox (with a secret room for jazz concerts) and Brooklyn Rippers. Clubs: An upbeat option for salsa dancing is Mama Rumba . If you’re keen for an official class, visit on a Wednesday, Thursday or Saturday and pay 100 pesos. Iconic club, Patrick Miller , is the place to watch locals show off in organised dance circles before it turns into a regular club after 10pm.

Tacos in Roma & Condesa

You’ll find countless places to eat world-class tacos. Some great options for your Mexico City itinerary include…

• Tacos Orinoco on Avenue Insurgentes are known for their generous meaty tacos served with crispy potatoes. The hype is huge so prepare to queue!
• Tacos Alvaro Obregon also serve tasty tacos, volcanos, gringos and more in no-frills surroundings
• El Tizoncito are famed as the birthplace of tacos al pastor. Be sure to try the famous bean dip with tortilla chips
• Taqueria El Califa is a good place to ease in gently with classy tacos on ceramic plates
• Tacos Hola can’t be beaten for 20 peso lunchtime tacos with loads of veggie options
• El Compita Birria de Res for lunchtime birria.
• Tacos El Gato Volador and Tacos Los Juanes for authentic late-night joints.
• (VEGAN) Por Siempre Vegana serve faux-meat tacos including Seitan. These are a bargain at five for 65 pesos. Other vegan taco spots include Gracias Madre, Paxil and Taco Santo.
• (VEGAN) La Pitahaya Vegana serve pretty pink tacos with gourmet vegan ingredients including almond, coconut, pumpkin, braised cauliflower and grilled pineapple. Pay 180 pesos for three.

More Roma & Condesa food for your Mexico City itinerary

Dessert in Roma and Condesa: Don’t miss Ficelle Boulangerie Patisserie for the prettiest cupcakes in town or visit Clemont for a rich and creamy ice cream bar.

Check my complete Roma and Condesa food guide !

Coffee and cafes: Book lovers shouldn’t miss Cafebre El Pendulo , a cosy bookstore cafe. For a laptop cafe with great coffee and the best avocado toast of all time, visit Blend Station . Head to Cardinal (either the Roma or Condesa branch) for the best cortado in town. Quentin is another good spot. Chocolate: Those with a sweet tooth will love the award-winning chocolates in endless flavours from Tout Chocolat . Then, there’s Tierra Garat, a chain of chocolate cafes where you should order the chocolate con chile (hot chocolate flavoured with chilli). Finally, El Moro is the chocolate and churro cafe I mentioned earlier, the prettiest one overlooking Parque Mexico. World cuisine: Whatever you want to eat, you’ll find it in Roma or Condesa. I love the wood-fired pizza with burrata (plus the desserts and margaritas) at Pizza Felix . For ramen and sushi, it’s all about Gin Chan or Kura .

Day 2 Mexico City Itinerary – explore Centro

Big and busy Centro Historico will be a total contrast to your first day wandering Roma and Condesa. Despite being hectic, this UNESCO World Heritage Zone is a must. The main square is called the Zocalo and is the biggest of its kind in Latin America. Despite all the grand and historic buildings, there are endless busy taquerias and local food stands. Although they stand out like a sore thumb against the ancient architecture, they’re the soul of the Zocalo. You know you’re in Mexico City when you see quesadillas being flipped in front of decadent palaces. Centro is the best place to learn about Mexico’s rich history. Follow this Mexico City itinerary as we explore the museums, markets, churches and sunny squares.

Top tip – Most museums are closed on Mondays and free on Sundays. Centro Historico (as well as Xochimilco and Coyoacan) will be super busy at weekends. Time your CDMX itinerary accordingly.

Morning in Centro itinerary – mini walking tour

10am: After experiencing Roma’s trendy brunch cafes the day before, grab a traditional breakfast at El Cardenal (my favourite branch is the Hilton one with a replica of a Diego Riera mural inside) or Cafe Tacuba? Bot are local institutions open for decades. Go early or be prepared to queue! 11am: explore Palacio del Bellas Artes (Palace of the Arts). This grand marble and gold building is full of classic art by artists including Diego Rivera. It was even the location of Frida Kahlo’s funeral. In the evening, it doubles up as a ballet venue so you could consider returning for an evening out. Entrance to the gallery is 70 pesos or free on Sundays. Afterwards, wander through Alameda Central, a leafy park where locals hang out.

1pm: For 360-degree panoramic views, pay 70 pesos to head up the Torre Latinoamericana tower. Another option is to buy a drink at Cafe Don Porfirio directly opposite Palacio del Bellas Artes. This viewpoint isn’t half as high but it’s a lovely place to sit outside and soak up city views. Next, stop by Casa de los Azulejos . This gorgeous blue-and-white tiled building translates as House of Tiles . Head inside for evidence that Mexico City (built inside an ancient lakebed) is sinking. The wonky corridors and beams add character to the decadent interior.

2pm, Chinatown : Okay, this is probably the worst Chinatown I’ve visited but it’s worth a quick wander. Sample a colourful rainbow steamed bun and admire dragon statues. 2.30pm, Palacio Postal: The architecture of this 100-year-old building is worth exploring while downtown. The exterior isn’t spectacular but the interior is lined with gold and marble making it a real hidden gem to peep inside! Beside it is MUNAL (the National Art Museum), a must-visit for art lovers. 3pm: Next, head to Templo Mayor , the remains of an ancient city known as Tenochtitlan, built by the Mexica people. The site has religious importance because it’s believed that a snake and eagle (shown on the Mexican flag) appeared as a vision to locals who subsequently built the temple on this site. Templo Mayor was built in 1325 and sadly destroyed by the Spanish in the 1500s who used the stone to build Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral  right beside it. This is one of the largest and oldest cathedrals in the Americas so it’s an impressive albeit tragic monument. 4pm, El Moro : Visit the original branch of this iconic chocolate and churro cafe. Arguably the best, this flagship cafe is always packed with locals queuing out the door. Grab a seat in the diner-style venue and guzzle hot chocolate and churros to your heart’s content.

5pm, Explore the markets:

In the afternoon, wander through Mercado de San Juan to experience busy local life. This ‘exotic’ market is not for the faint of heart with some lion and tiger busts on the walls. Strangely, it’s also a great place to shop for Spanish cheese and tapas snacks! For contrast, arrive at La Ciudadela , a colourful crafts market (technically in Juarez not Centro but worth the quick detour if you have time) where you can shop for clothes, bags, rugs, pillowcases, art, souvenirs… the list goes on! Save some space in your luggage because you’ll want to purchase a LOT!

Rather explore the markets with a guide? Find the best food in San Juan and Merced markets with GetYourGuide .

More things to do in Centro

If any places on the above itinerary don’t take your fancy, here are some alternatives for your Mexico City itinerary. I’ve visited all these places personally so can vouch for them!

• Listen to mariachi music in the evenings at Plaza Garibaldi (it’s best to call an Uber home as this isn’t the safest area to walk around at night)
• See the incredible ceiling at the Gran Hotel – this is free and only takes a minute
• Museo de Arte Popular – a beautiful museum dedicated to colourful Mexican folk art (one of my all-time favourite places in CDMX)
• The Franz Mayer Museum in a beautiful complex with interesting temporary exhibitions
• The National Palace – see incredible Diego Rivera murals on the free daily 10.30am tour (get in line an hour before)
• Secretariat of Public Education – more Diego murals that you can see for free
• Museo Mural Diego Rivera – worth a quick visit to see the Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Central mural.

Read next a complete guide to Centro Historico CDMX including what to eat!

Safety in the Zocalo

Unlike Roma, Condesa and Coyoacan where I have no zero safety concerns, I would recommend keeping an eye on your bag around Centro, especially around tightly-packed markets. After dark, call an Uber rather than walking. I’ll discuss transportation options in detail towards the end of this blog.

Evening – Lucha Libre show

Even if you’re not into wrestling, Lucha Libre is more of a show than anything else combining costumes, acting and even a bit of aerobics. It’s been part of Mexican culture since the 1800s so it’s an entertaining addition to your travel plans. You can see the luchadores wrestlers perform in iconic costumes seven nights a week at Arena Mexico. Get your tickets on the door or book in advance. By booking a Lucha Libre tour you have a bit more security as Arena Mexico isn’t in the safest area (plus, it’s a fun vibe with a group), but it’s still ok to go independently – just call an Uber and don’t stroll the neighbourhood at night.

Day 3 Mexico City itinerary – Coyoacan & San Angel

These two charming neighbourhoods sit close together in the south of Mexico City which is why I’d recommend visiting both during 1 day. San Angel Market holds a Saturday Market so visit then if possible. Getting to San Angel/Coyoacan: An Uber from Roma/Condesa will cost 150 pesos to either San Angel or Coyoacan. Instead, you can arrive into Coyoacan metro station for just 5 pesos but note it’s a 20-minute walk from Coyoacan historic centre.

This lesser-visited suburb of Mexico City is charming and sleepy with pretty churches and parks. The Saturday Bazaar sprawls the streets and covered market halls, selling contemporary Mexican art, gourmet cheese, chocolate, bath products, jewellery, antiques and more. This is bound to be a highlight during your five days in Mexico City. Even if you can’t visit at the weekend, it’s worth a wander around this pretty part of Mexico City. San Angel and Coyoacan are just a 10-minute drive apart. After San Angel, jump in an Uber to Coyoacan, once a small town until Mexico City sprawled and engulfed it. You’ll feel as if you’ve escaped the capital altogether thanks to the leafy parks and sleepy backstreets.

Read next: the best things to do in Coyoacan

Frida Kahlo Museum, Coyoacan

This is what puts Coyoacan on the map. Frida Kahlo was Mexico’s most famous artist and she lived out her days with her husband Diego Rivera here in the Blue House where you can see plenty of her original artwork. My best tip for visiting the Frida Kahlo Museum is to book Frida Kahlo museum tickets online in advance. It’s extremely popular and you could queue for hours and not get in, especially at weekends. Once you’re inside, you’ll want to spend 1-2 hours admiring exhibits and relaxing in the sunny courtyard.

Lunch at Mercado de Coyoacan

Add this bustling covered market to your Mexico City itinerary. It’s worth a visit just to sample the many tostada toppings at Tostadas Coyoacan (I’d recommend chicken mole and shrimp & avocado). Wander the atmospheric market and shop for souvenirs.

Afternoon activities in Coyoacan

• Mercado Artesanal Mexicano – shop at this market known for its handcrafted goods and souvenirs
• Parroquia San Juan Bautista Church – one of the oldest churches in the Americas built eight years after the conquest of Mexico
• Plaza de la Conchita – a crumbling, pale yellow church beside a pretty square
• Chapel of Santa Catarina – a final church with a vibrant yellow exterior.
• Casa de Cultura Jesus Reyes Heroles – a free-to-visit cultural centre with Aztec relics, artwork and statues of Frida and Diego. Find it beside the Chapel of Santa Catarina and grab coffee afterwards at Meson Antigua , a brightly coloured restaurant with indoor murals.

Where to drink coffee in Coyoacan

• Cafe Negro – visit for excellent coffee and enormous sandwiches and salads. The Wi-Fi is strong.
• Cafe Avellaneda – this tiny coffee shop is a local institution, well worth adding to your CDMX itinerary. Grab a seat at the bar and chat to the other guests.

Read next: the best cafes and restaurants in Coyoacan

Day 4 Mexico City itinerary – Chapultepec & Polanco

For the penultimate day of your trip, we’re headed to two brand new neighbourhoods, neither of which bare any resemblance to the ones you’ve seen already. To save money, plan this day out for a Sunday when the museums are free.

A corner of Mexico City I haven’t yet introduced is Chapultepec Park , bigger than Central Park in New York. This is one of my favourite places to take a walk in the sunshine and escape the noise and traffic. It’s also home to the oldest castle in the Americas where Romeo and Juliet was filmed, plus museums, art galleries, a zoo and food market. 10am: Start your day by grabbing coffee at Libreria Porrua Bosque de Chapultepec , a quirky bookshop cafe with trees growing inside and views over the lake. The coffee is only ok but it’s worth a visit for the surroundings. If you have the time and energy, hire a pedalo and explore the lake.

10.30am, Museum of Anthropology: Just a moment’s walk from Libreria Porrua is Museo Nacional de Antropología, in my opinion the best museum in CDMX. You’ll learn about the Mayas, Aztecs and other pre-Hispanic civilisations. Entrance is 70 pesos.

Other things to do in Chapultepec

Add to your Mexico City itinerary… 12pm, Food Market: You could easily spend hours at the Anthropology Museum so you’ll probably be hungry by the time you leave. Wander through the large food market in the centre of the park and try quesadillas, tortas, huaraches, mole and various other Mexican foods. It’s not gourmet but nothing will cost you more than 100 pesos! 1pm, Chapultepec Castle: Exploring this impressive castle, museum and art gallery is a must for five days in Mexico City. Built upon a sacred Aztec hilltop in 1775, the Spanish are of course responsible for this European-style castle. In fact, it’s the only castle in the Americas to have ever been inhabited by royals.

This iconic spot is the filming location of Baz Luhrmann‎’s Romeo and Juliet . Other tidbits of history include the fact it was abandoned during the War of Independence, then defended by six children who lost their lives during the Mexican-American War. Pay your respects at the Niños Héroes (Hero Children) statue. Entrance to the castle and Museum of National History is 70 pesos. Closed Mondays. 2pm, Museo de Arte Moderno: If you’re not all cultured-out, swing by this modern art gallery before leaving Chapultepec Park. Here you can see the famous Two Fridas painting, a self-portrait following her divorce from Diego. Entrance is 70 pesos or free on Sundays (closed Mondays).

Afternoon – Polanco

Polanco is Mexico City’s most upmarket neighbourhood. I wouldn’t recommend staying there unless you want to hemorrhage money but it’s somewhere you can spend a couple of hours exploring just to see how the other half live. It’s not the most culturally interesting or exciting area of the city, in my opinion, so if you run out of time for anything in this itinerary, I’d suggest this being the place you skip!

Things to do in Polanco:

• Soumaya Museum : this private art museum was built by the richest man in Mexico, Carlos Slim, at a cost of $70 million. Inside are 600,000+ pieces of art including mosaics, statues, and religious art. Entry is free (although there are often long queues) until 6.30pm. Closed Tuesdays.
• Museo Jumex : another private art collection next door to Soumaya. Closed Mondays.
• Tane Store: This is nothing but a Mexico City Insta spot probably engineered by the jewellery store. But who’s complaining? This is one of Mexico City’s most iconic photo spots so swing by and snap some.
• Shop for accessories, jewellery and homeware at hipster market, Mercado Escondido .
• Wander Lincoln Park home to the Martin Luther King Monument.

Where to eat and drink in Polanco

While you might not expect authentic street food in such a fancy neighbourhood, there are plenty of stands outside Soumaya Museum. Since there’s a thriving Jewish community in Polanco, you can also sample authentic fare at Klein’s Polanco . For lunch, dinner and coffee, visit Cafebrería El Pendulo , the Polanco branch of Mexico City’s library cafe. In my opinion, the best speciality coffee in Polanco can be found at Cucurucho, Blend Station, Niddo and Bakers (don’t miss the baked goods at the last two!). However, the most famous restaurant in Polanco (and possibly the whole city) is Pujol . Voted one of Latin America’s best restaurants, chef Enrique Olver uses traditional Mexican ingredients in his imaginative modern dishes. You’ll need to shell out $200 USD per head and book three months in advance but fans of fine dining will tell you it’s worth it!

Day 5 Mexico City itinerary – Xochimilco

Xochimilco is sometimes referred to as the ‘Venice of Mexico City’ although I can’t say I particularly see the resemblance. The boats that roam Xochimilco’s waterways are not delicate gondolas but enormous trajineras , brightly painted with images from Mexican culture.

Trajinera tour

For a fun day out, head to Embarc adero Nativitas where you can arrange a tour price with the vendors. A slightly quieter port I like is Embarcadero de Cuemanco . Since they rent out a whole boat per group, you’ll want to buddy up to make this cheaper. If you’re not staying in a hostel, I’d suggest waiting at the pier and asking other pairs / small groups if they want to join. Alternatively, book a tour then you don’t need to worry.

Browse Xochimilco tours with GetYourGuide.

Highly rated tours include a lunchtime boat tour with drinks, a tour including Coyoacan and UNAM (great if you’re short of time), a fun boat tour with a mezcal mixology class and a social party cruise . While enjoying your tour of the Xochimilco waterways, you’ll have the chance to purchase Mexican snacks like tamales and quesadillas from passing boats. This day out can be whatever you make it: some people bring beers, hire a mariachi band at the pier and make it a party. Others cruise down the waterways and enjoy the greenery and nature. It’s entirely up to you.

Eco tour: to escape the crowds and support local livelihoods, I would recommend taking a Floating Gardens of Xochimilco tour with Pachoa Mexico. We didn’t board a trajinera but we were able to explore the islands in greater depth by canoe and learn how local farmers have used the area for centuries. We didn’t see another boat all day!

Originally, I mentioned visiting the Dolores Museum for the final afternoon of your Mexico City itinerary. However, this has closed and is set to reopen in Chapultepec Park. I will keep this updated when I hear more! Instead, for any spare hours, I recommend hanging out in Roma and Condesa, enjoying the sunshine and lovely cafes, parks and breweries. You earned it!

Getting around Mexico City

This depends what’s more important to you: time or money! If you have just 5 days in Mexico City, you may be best off calling Ubers to save time. However, if you want to try public transport (which is very efficient and affordable), here’s what you need to know:

• Metro: these underground trains can be busy and hectic but they’re a cheap and efficient way to get around. Keep your bag close and use the women & children’s carriage at night. Journeys cost 5 pesos. To buy a travel card and top it up, approach the counter and say ‘Puedo tener una tarjeta con x pesos?’
• Metrobús and trolleybus: You tap on and off with your Metro card and journeys cost 6 pesos. Like the Metro, these routes and times show up on Google Maps. The Metrobus consists of red carriages travelling along electric tram-style lines between designated boarding stations, and the trolleybus is a blue bus.
• Regular buses: I’ve never mastered these as the routes don’t show up on Google Maps. If you speak a little Spanish and ask the driver where they’re going, give them a go. Pay in cash but don’t expect change.
• Ecobici – these electric bikes are available for rent from docks around the city. Download the app and get a daily or weekly pass. Be careful cycling and stick to designated bike lanes. Dock every 45 minutes to avoid extra charges.
• Uber: these are much cheaper than at home. You’ll pay around 150 pesos for a 30-minute ride. Other taxi apps include Didi and InDrive. I’d always suggest taking a taxi at night rather than walking, with the exception of safe areas like Roma and Condesa.

SIM cards when visiting Mexico City

For a short Mexico City itinerary, you might not bother with a SIM card. But if you’re out and about calling Ubers at night, I find they can make life easier and more secure. I use a Telcel SIM card which I top up monthly in any OXXO store. For 150 pesos, you’ll get calls, texts, 4gb of mobile data, plus unlimited social media and WhatsApp for a month (which can be used all over Mexico if you’re travelling after). Ask or show the cashier ‘Tarjeta SIM Telcel con paquete 150, por favor’.

Do you need to know Spanish to visit Mexico City?

Well, it will certainly help! Although many tour guides and people working in cafes and restaurants in the Roma and Condesa areas speak English, it’s not widely spoken among the general population. So, the more Spanish you know the better! However, lots of travellers visit Mexico City knowing little to no Spanish and get by just fine. Brush up on the basics, have Google. Translate downloaded and do your best!

Is Mexico City safe?

I’ve included this because it’s the first thing people ask me when I tell them I live in Mexico City. Everyone planning a trip here seems to be concerned about safety. So, I want to put your mind at rest! Sure, there are bad areas of CDMX but you’re unlikely to wander into them. Doctores and Tepito are the only two bad areas remotely near the touristic areas but, since they don’t have any major tourist attractions (aside from the Lucha Libre shows in Doctors), you’re not going to wander into them. Overall, yes, Mexico City is safe to visit. Aside from areas like Roma and Condesa where it’s safe to walk in the evenings, my general rule is not to. Call Uber instead – it’s cheap! Other than that, do the normal things you would anywhere like watch your belongings in busy, crowded areas and don’t get too drunk… You should have no problems.

Best time to visit Mexico City

There isn’t really a bad time to visit because CDMX has year-round good weather. However, the coldest months are December to January with daytime lows of 11°C / 51°F and colder evenings so you’ll want to pack jeans and a warm jacket. By February, it’s warm again and stays hot throughout the summer. Rainy season is June-September so plan for showers in these months.

Additional day trips from Mexico City

If you have days to spare in Mexico, the capital is an excellent place to use them. Tag these days on to your Mexico City itinerary.

I would recommend spending a couple of days in Puebla , a gorgeous city just 2 hours from Mexico City. However, if you have limited time, take an organised day trip from Mexico City .

Sample local candies along Calle del Dulces (Sweet Street), journey inside Cholula Pyramid and wander the Artist’s Quarter. Sample delicious local delicacies, mole poblano (chocolate and chilli sauce best eaten over chicken enchiladas) and chile en nogada (a giant chilli stuffed with a fruit hash and bathed in creamy walnut sauce). Puebla food is the best! To visit Puebla, take an organised day tour or catch an early bus from Tapo (Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente). Book on busbud .

Another day trip from Mexico City is to Tepoztlán, a charming town 1.5 hours from the capital. Striking craggy mountains surround Tepotzlán which you can hike into by visiting Archaeological Zone Tepozteco. From here you’ll get beautiful views over the town and countryside. Reward yourself at the local market where you can try prehispanic cuisine including burgers patties made with pink hibiscus, squash, mole and ginger. Vegans will be in the element. Read more about the Tepoztlán food here.

Taxco is a traditional silver mining town 2.5 hours from Mexico City. Catch a bus from Mexico City’s Taxqueña (Terminal de Sur) or take an organised Taxco day tour from the capital.

lf you have time, I’d recommend staying overnight to explore the many lovely things to do in Taxco including shopping for silver jewellery and eating speciality dishes such as rose mole and queso malinalli.

Mexico City packing list

Here are a few things I would recommend taking to Mexico City:

• Clothes: Jeans, sweater and a jacket – you’ll especially need these in winter and during the evenings
• Cooler clothes for day times: shorts, dresses and skirts are all appropriate for Mexico City
• ‘Nicer’ clothes for restaurants and bars (whatever you’d wear at home)
• Comfy sneakers – you’ll do a lot of walking
• Nicer sandals for evenings
• Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
• Microfibre quick-drying towel
• Security: A handy bum bag with secure zip
• Combination padlock (ideal for hostel lockers)
• Research: The latest copy of Lonely Planet Mexico
• A Lonely Planet Mexican Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary
• Technology: a GoPro if you’re making videos – I use the HERO8 Black
• Solo photography pick: Manfrotto tripod and Joby Gorillapod
• A power bank to keep your devices alive
• Sustainability: stainless steel reusable water bottle with straw lid to reduce the use of plastic bottles
• Alternatively, a filtering water bottle that allows you to safely drink tap water
• Reusable coffee cup (collapsable) for hot takeaway drinks
• Metal straw kit with straw cleaner and cloth bag .

Travelling further around Mexico?

• Head south to Oaxaca state. I had a blast in Oaxaca city eating mole, visiting Hierve el Agua , spotting street art and experiencing Dia de Muertos . While in Oaxaca, take a trip to Puerto Escondido where you can see dolphins, turtles and luminous plankton
• Guadalajara is the other ‘big city’ in Mexico. I spent 4 days in Guadalajara exploring the Zocalo, Tlaqueupaque art district, Chapultepec, and visiting Tequila and Lake Chapala as day trips
• Queretaro city (and state) is four hours from Mexico City. I spent a blissful weekend here, hopping between the Queretaro wineries and visiting Pueblo Magicos (magic towns voted by the tourist board), Bernal and Tequisquiapan
• Guanajuato state has a few cities of interest to travellers. I visited San Miguel from Mexico City which I enjoyed (despite its rep as an American retirement hub) but I preferred colourful Guanajuato city where I spent Christmas 2019.

Thanks for reading my Mexico City itinerary

VISITING MEXICO? These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – the quickest (and often cheapest) way to travel between Mexican cities is by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Getting around by bus (environmental option) – buses in Mexico are comfy with free snacks and an in-journey entertainment system. I use Busbud to find the best prices. Driving in Mexico – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in Mexico (and all around the world) For hotels in Mexico, I use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse Mexico tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I always check Viator in case they have a better price. For Mexico food tours with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Need to top up your Spanish? Pack a Lonely Planet Mexican Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Check out my other Mexico City blogs:

• 23 Mexico City travel tips
• Solo female travel to Mexico City, is it safe?
• How to visit Xochimilco
• The best restaurants in Condesa and Roma
• The ultimate Mexico bucket list
• Solo female travel in Mexico
• A guide to Coyoacan Mexico City
• Where to eat in Coyoacan
• 36 best Mexican foods to try
• Hierve el Agua without the crowds
• The best food in Tepoztlán

See you next time,

Ps. Liked this Mexico City itinerary? Pin it for later!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

3 thoughts on “ Ultimate Mexico City Itinerary For 5 Days + Culture & Food! ”

Hey Rose, just finishing up my 6th day in Mexico City. Had a look at the blog initially just for some inspiration but found myself going back to it over and over again. Didn’t manage to get to all the places you recommended but so thankful for your recommendations. Super easy to follow along, looking forward to reading more 🙂

Hello! Thanks for commenting, I’m always so happy to know people enjoyed the blogs. Mexico City is amazing, isn’t it?!

This is exactly what I was looking for- great article. thanks Rose!

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Groovy Mashed Potatoes - Travel Blog

Unique travel experiences, fun itineraries & offbeat places to help you plan your dream trip

4 Day Mexico City Itinerary for Food, Art & Culture

Mexico City is the 5th largest city in the world, with over 21 million people and a whopping 350 neighbourhoods. With a city packed with so much culture and history, it can feel overwhelming deciding where to spend your time, what restaurants to eat at and what galleries and shops to visit.

Our mission was to find unique places and hidden gems that make the city so special. We spent almost 2 weeks exploring and have picked out what we think are the must-see spots for your 4 days in Mexico City.

We can easily say that Mexico City (also known as CDMX) is now one of our favourite cities in the world. The way the colourful city celebrates and preserves its indigenous roots is unlike many places we have visited. This shines through in their deep food culture with many cooking methods having a culinary heritage, and in their modern design, which takes inspiration from traditional textiles, colours and shapes.

If you love food and art and are looking to immerse yourself into the local culture, this 4 Day Mexico City itinerary is for you.

Best time to visit Mexico City

Mexico City 

You may surprised to hear that Mexico City is located 2,400 m (7,350 ft) above sea level on an ancient lake bed surrounded by mountains. A crazy fact is that it used to be an Aztec city on an island on Lake Texcoco, however the lake was drained over time by the Spanish to develop land for Mexico City. This location makes for a drier climate with warm days and cool nights.

The best time to visit Mexico City is from February - May for a few reasons:

• You will avoid the rainy season from June - October
• February - May has the highest average sunlight hours
• The temperature is pleasant with highs reaching 22 °C - 26 °C.
• In January, some of the best contemporary galleries are closed because they are setting up exhibitions for art week in February

Top Tip: If you are visiting Mexico City primarily to see the art, we highly recommend visiting for art week in February!

Getting around Mexico City

The cheapest way to get around Mexico City is by transit. The metro is 5 pesos per trip ($0.24 USD) and Metrobus 6 pesos per trip + 10 pesos for the rechargeable card. As a safety precaution, avoid taking the metro (especially alone) at nighttime, since crimes like muggings peak at night.

Uber is the most convenient way to get around the city and is great value. A 20 minute drive from the airport to Polanco cost us $5.68 USD and an 11 minute drive between Polanco and Roma cost us $2.75 USD.

We tried out a taxi once and it was more expensive than what Uber quoted. With taxis you also have to pay in cash and worry about the driver not using the meter. They also don't have accountability or traceability through an app like Uber does.

Best area to stay in Mexico City

With 16 boroughs and more than 350 neighbourhoods, Mexico City is enormous. You will want to stay in a neighbourhood that is walking distance to happening spots, but also one that is easy to get around to other parts of the city.

We stayed in Polanco, Roma and Condesa, and felt that Roma and Condesa were by far the better areas to stay. In Roma and Condesa, we had better access to other neighbourhoods and we enjoyed their creative atmosphere. There were tons of eclectic eateries, galleries, boutiques and nightlife all within walking distance.

Where to stay

We stayed at these three places and loved them all! They were exceptionally designed and in a fabulous location.

Best for unique luxury: La Valise

La Luna suite at La Valise

Best for a tranquil hideaway: Ignacia Guest House

Ignacia Guest House, Mexico City

Best for feeling like a local: Casa Dovela

Casa Dovela

4 Day Mexico City Itinerary

Day 1: Roma

Explore Mexico City's coolest neighbourhood

Colonia Roma

Roma is known as the "Williamsburg of Mexico City", where stylish and artistic types congregate. Walking along the softly-coloured streets you will see Art Deco mansions turned boutique hotels and quirky cafes, bars, vintage stores and artisanal shops just around every corner.

A string of events led Roma to the bohemian neighbourhood that it is today. In the late 19th/early 20th century it was an affluent area until wealthy residents moved out to newer neighbourhoods in the mid-20th century. Roma then became a middle-class neighbourhood until it was struck by a devastating 8.1 magnitude earthquake in 1985. It was one of the hardest hit neighborhoods and to this day you can still see remnants of the disaster in some of the roads and sidewalks.

A slow restoration of the area and cheap rents led to artists, poets and drifters moving in, creating a bohemian atmosphere. As with many artistic hubs in major cities, the alluring cultural atmosphere is gentrifying Roma over time.

Today you will be exploring this wonderful, colourful and spirited neighbourhood full of history and change.

Sip coffee and people watch at Panaderia Rosetta

Panaderia Rosetta in Roma Norte

One of the best ways to get to know a neighbourhood is by sitting at an outdoor cafe and observing everything around you. Panaderia Rosetta is a chic European-style bakery by acclaimed chef Elena Reygadas and is well known for its pastries. It's a popular spot, so expect to wait for a spot outside. Try the Cardamomo, it's delicious!

Walk the pastel-coloured streets to discover unique boutiques

Clockwise from top left: Esculturas vivas | Mother Store Vintage Club | Tana Karei | Ballista

The shopping in Roma is excellent, so make sure you leave lots of room in your suitcase! We visited a ton of boutiques and these were our favourites:

Best boutique stores in Roma

• Esculturas vivas - translated to "living sculptures", this artisanal shop sells funky vases and sculptures with carved faces that make it feel like you're bringing an amigo home. They were also featured in Elle Decor Mexico.
• 180 Degrees - sells amazing jewelry and clothes from up-and-coming local designers.
• Mother vintage store - our favourite vintage store we visited in cdmx. They have a well-curated selection of leather jackets, cowboy boots, accessories, shoes and handbags from Mexican brands.
• Metate - a concept store selling artisanal Mexican housewares, accessories and clothes. We bought an authentic Yucatan basket and handmade black clay plates from Oaxaca.
• Tana Karei - designer furniture and home decor store with natural and timeless pieces.
• Laguna (Calle Dr. Erazo 172) - this former textile factory from the 20s has transformed into a creative hub with artist studios and shops. Here, you will find two stores worth visiting if you're an interior design lover: Decada Vintage Store for midcentury pieces and Ballista for radical, "haute couture" furniture.

See our list of 17 unique things to do in Roma Norte .

Enjoy lunch in the gorgeous courtyard of Blanco Colima

Blanco Colima in Roma Norte

Time for a break from shopping. Find yourself a table in the courtyard of the architecturally stunning Blanco Colima. The Porfirian-era (late 19th/early 20th century) mansion is the perfect setting for a refreshing lunch and mezcal cocktail.

See the latest exhibition at Gallery OMR and MAIA Contemporary

Gallery OMR is one of the most prominent contemporary art galleries in Mexico. Since its opening in 1983, it's paved the way for contemporary Mexican artists to gain international attention. The gallery has discovered some of the most well known Mexican artists today.

Just a 3 minute walk away from Gallery OMR is MAIA Contemporary, another notable gallery exhibiting work from contemporary Mexican and Latin American artists. We saw Pedro Friedeberg's solo show, Hipnerotomagia, when we were there.

See our list of 17 Mexico City art galleries you should visit.

Dine at Meroma, one of Mexico City's best farm-to-table restaurants

Mexico City has a burgeoning farm-to-table culinary scene, with three restaurants paving the way in Roma: Maximo, Rosetta and Meroma. We dined at all three, and Meroma topped the list for us.

Meroma is one of the top restaurants in Mexico City - for those in the know. Located up the stairs at the back of their sceney street-level bar, the husband and wife duo host you in their mid-century modern space. Every dish we had was standout. So much so, that we immediately made a reservation afterwards to try everything else on the menu . Your taste buds will thank you when you try their creative and seasonally-focussed dishes.

Must try: Merguez orecchiette and fish collar. Start your meal with a glass of their AUS Pét-Nat Rosé wine.

Drink cocktails at one of the world's best bars

Mexico City is becoming internationally known for its cocktail scene. In fact, four bars in the city are listed in the 2021 World's 50 Best Bars list : Licorería Limantour, Hanky Panky, Handshake and Baltra Bar. Usually bars on this prestigious list will set you back about $20 USD for each cocktail, however in Mexico City, cocktails of the same calibre are half this price!

We went to all four of these bars and Handshake was by far our favourite. The dark and sexy Art Deco interior, glamorous atmosphere, exceptional cocktails made with exotic ingredients and attentive service is what set this prohibition-style bar apart from the others.

At Hanky Panky, the reservation system is frustrating. Even when you make an online reservation you need to message them in advance to confirm your spot and you can still expect to wait to get inside. Hanky Panky also had our least favourite cocktails of the four bars. The ambience here was funky and cool, but we were unfortunately sat at a long table down the stairs behind the speakers. It felt like we were outside of the action, since our server kept forgetting about us.

Licorería Limantour and Baltra Bar both have great cocktails, however they were missing the "wow factor" that Handshake had with its atmosphere.

See our list of the Mexico City's best cocktail bars

Day 2: Polanco

Explore Mexico City's upscale neighborhood & indulge on exceptional street food

Polanco neighborhood, Mexico City

Polanco is an elegant neighborhood where you will find high-end shops, world renowned fine-dining restaurants and ritzy apartments along quiet side streets. Sometimes we find that posh neighborhoods in major cities can be boring, however there are gems throughout Polanco that make it stand out.

Today you will be eating as much flavourful street food as you can and visiting some of the neighborhood's must-see spots.

Try authentic Mexican dishes on a street food crawl

Two amigos sharing chilaquiles

Some of the best food Mexico City has to offer is from street vendors. Really, you have to try it. The quality and value of the food is incredible. We found a quiet street in Polanco called Lago Victoria that had street vendor after street vendor. It's beside Hospital Español, so we figured it's where hospital workers (locals!) ate for lunch.

Go for a food crawl and tick off some of these delicious and authentic Mexican dishes:

• Chilaquiles - this plate of corn tortilla chips simmered in green or red salsa and topped with crumbled cheese is so addictive, I craved it every morning. Order it with chicken if available.
• Tacos de Canasta (basket tacos) - if you see a basket on a bicycle it's most likely Tacos de Canastra, a steamed taco typically served for breakfast. It's loaded with anything from potato and beans to chicken and lamb.
• Tamales - open the banana leaf or corn husk to find a savoury mixture of vegetables or meat with masa (a dough made from dried corn).
• Gorditas - the thick corn tortilla made from masa is fried in a skillet and filled with ingredients like beans, chicken, carne asada, cheese and salsa.
• Torta - translated to "sandwich", a torta is a bun topped with meat, sauce, and fresh veggies like tomatoes, avocado and onion.
• Mole - made with chili peppers and chocolate, mole is a rich sauce that comes from pre-hispanic times. There are many variations to try, such as black, green and red mole. We had mole served on top of enchiladas - a rolled corn tortilla with a savoury filling.
• Quesadillas - a tasty snack of a corn tortillas folded in half with a small amount of melted Mexican cheese (Oaxaca, Manchego or Chihuahua). Dip it in salsa or guacamole.
• Flautas - wonderfully deep-fried flute-shaped tortillas filled with meat, cheese or veggies of your choice. Top it with crema, cotija cheese and salsa.
• Churros - finish off with a sweet treat of fried dough topped with cinnamon sugar

Shop Polanco's unique boutiques

Top: Xinu | Bottom: IKAL

Polanco is known for its higher-end shopping with designer stores and commercial shops peppered throughout. Look past the commercial shops to discover some of the best boutiques in the city.

These stores are a must-visit in Polanco:

• IKAL - a concept store with gorgeous housewares, jewelry and clothing from Mexico's best designers. We bought a volcanic stone bowl with a wooden lid that keeps your tortillas warm (called at Tortillero).
• Lago - carries unique housewares and clothing from emerging Latin American designers. We bought a couple of gorgeous clay vases for our home.
• Xinu perfume - it's an experience visiting this stunning ethnobotanical perfume store. Buzz to get inside and walk up the stairs find a beautiful lab-like table with six unisex perfumes to try. The artisanal perfumery uses high-quality raw ingredients from Latin American plants and flowers. The scents are sultry and complex yet subtle and chic. I chose Monstera (No. 4) and Ari the Aguamadera (No. 1).
• Onora - Sells traditional Mexican handicrafts with a contemporary look for the home

See the beauty of LAGO ALGO, Mexico City's new cultural space

Have a lakeside lunch and see the latest art exhibition at LAGO ALGO, a gorgeous cultural space in Chapultepec Forest that is one part restaurant/working space (LAGO) and one part contemporary gallery space (ALGO). As OMR's newest opening, it's sure to impress.

Make your free art exhibition reservation online , and your lunch reservation 30 minutes later. Request to sit outside or by the window for a lake view.

Eat mouthwatering tacos and panuchos for dinner at El Turix

On the plane ride over to Mexico City, a sweet older man who grew up in the city recommended this hole-in-the-wall taqueria. It's famous for its cochinita pibil (Yucatan BBQ shredded pork) tacos and panuchos. A handful of juicy pulled pork is slapped onto the tortilla and topped with pickled onion. It's then up to you to add your desired condiments on top.

Make sure you try the panucho version which is like a taco, but the tortilla is fried and topped with beans. It was one of my favourite things I ate in the city.

Finish the night off with drinks at Ticuchi

Switch it up from the casual street food joints and finish the night off at Ticuchi, a dimly lit bar with an impressive round skylight that gives it James Turrell vibes. Shining candlelight nicely contrasts the black walls and furniture and exciting music fills the space.

It feels like you're in an exclusive bar in the space station with moonlight shining through a porthole , but once you take a sip of strong artisanal Mezcal you're reminded that you've found a hidden gem in CDMX.

Top Tip: This is a great place to try out Mezcal, also ask for the unexpectedly delicious off-menu tamale.

See more unique things to do in Polanco

Day 3: San Miguel Chapultepec & Juarez

Visit architecturally inspiring San Miguel Chapultepec and hang out in up-and-coming Juarez

Start your day by walking through San Miguel Chapultepec, a bright neighborhood with an emerging art scene, and tour a home built by one of Mexico's most famous architects.

Go on an architectural tour of one of Luis Barragan's homes

Luis Barrangan was a famous Mexican architect and modernist who heavily influenced contemporary architects with his use of vivid colours and light. He was awarded the most prestigious award in architecture, the Pritzker Architecture Prize, in 1980.

You will be amazed with how his use of colours and transitionary spaces play with your senses. We went on two architectural tours of Luis Barrangan designed homes, Casa Luis Barragan and Casa Gilardi. See which one is right for you in our review below - or if you have time, go to both!

Casa Luis Barragan

Casa Luis Barragan was the home and workshop of the renowned architect, which he built for himself in 1948. Listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, it's the only private residence in Latin America to achieve such distinction. You don't need to be an architecture buff to enjoy the one-hour tour. You will learn about his innovative and artistic use of colour, textures, shadows and light.

The only drawback of this tour is how difficult it is to get tickets, since there are limited spots. Tickets typically go on sale 2 weeks before the date and they go fast, so set a calendar reminder for your desired date! The price is $400 MXN per international guest (~$19.50 USD).

Casa Gilardi

Built in 1976, Casa Gilardi was the last home Luis Barragan designed before his passing. He was commissioned by a family who, to this day, give tours of their house.

A highlight was transitioning through a deep yellow hallway into the indoor pool room that extraordinarily combined the use of colours, shapes, natural light and shadows. It's so impressive that internationally renowned artist James Turrell stayed here for a month to examine the use of light.

It's easier to get tickets for Casa Gilardi since it's not a comprehensive tour. Our tour guide talked about the house for about 5 minutes and then we were left to explore the upstairs of the house. About 15 minutes later he brought us down to the lower level for the last part of our tour. Our tour guide was available for questions, but it was more of a self-guided tour compared to the detailed format given at Casa Luis Barrangan.

For tickets, email [email protected] directly. The price is $300 MXN per person (~$14.50 USD).

Visit a contemporary art gallery in San Miguel Chapultepec

LABOR art gallery

After your architectural tour, walk around multicoloured San Miguel Chapultepec to visit some of neighbourhood's eclectic galleries. Contemporary galleries worth checking out are LABOR , Kurimanzutto , JO-HS , MASA Galeria , and Galeria RGR . See their website for current exhibitions.

We were there for Kurimanzutto's Art Book Fair, a happening event where we saw a glimpse into Mexico City's art scene. In the back of the space is a cute cafe.

Hang out in the up-and-coming Juarez neighborhood

Time for lunch! Take an Uber to Cicatriz , a trendy industrial-style eatery in the Juarez neighborhood. Friends and expats like to meet up in this buzzing space that opens up onto a plaza. Refuel here with a few bites and a tasty cocktail before setting out to browse the trendy shops in Juarez.

Juarez is becoming one of Mexico City's hottest in-the-know neighborhoods. Juarez has a similar story to Roma, where wealthy residents moved to newer, more desirable neighborhoods in the early 20th century, paving the way for artistic types to move in. Today the abandoned French-Colonial mansions have been transformed into design houses, local designer shops, quirky cafes and hip bars.

Best boutique stores in Colonia Juarez:

• Marsella 68 - a concept store selling clothing, jewelry and housewares from independent designers. I bought a funky swimsuit here.
• CIHUAH - sells structural modern pieces with a blend of traditional Mexican design. The designer was born in France, but has lived in Mexico for over a decade. I bought a few pieces of clothing and a gorgeous rope art piece that hangs on the wall.
• Cynthia Buttenklepper - located up the stairs from CIHUAH, this edgy womenswear brand isn't afraid to experiment with vibrant colours.
• Casa Caballeria - men's concept store with fashionable clothing, jewelry and shoes.
• Bazaar Fusion - a two floor-bazaar with a collection of local Mexican brands
• Daniel Liebsohn - located in a strip mall of small galleries selling artwork and antiques, Daniel Liebsohn is the most impressive. Known as one of the top antique dealers in CDMX, each piece is fascinating and full of history.
• Atlawa - sells durable, yet stylish homeware/kitchenware made from resin. Perfect for outdoor or poolside entertaining.

Devour authentic Al Pastor tacos at El Vilsito

Spit-roasted pork shaven onto a corn tortilla

Out of all the street food joints I ate at in Mexico City, El Vilsito wins first place. The car mechanic shop by day turns into one of the most iconic al pastor taquerias in the city. Stepping up to the the open-air taqueria feels like a social affair. The happening spot is packed with locals and tourists standing at tables, chatting and devouring mouthwatering tacos. El Vilsito is located about a 20 minute drive south of the centre, but it's worth it.

The concept of al pastor was introduced by Lebanese immigrants in the 1930s. Spit roasted pork (like the spits you see at shawarma shops) is shaved onto a corn tortilla with onion, cilantro and pineapple. Each shop has their own unique spice rub on the pork, so al pastor is different everywhere you go. But, we find it's the sweet hit of pineapple that really makes them so delicious.

After the first bite of our taco, everything became a euphoric blur. We ordered more and more al pastor tacos - three rounds in total. After finishing it off with a Gringa (al pastor with a flour tortilla and cheese), I rolled into an Uber and slipped into a food coma.

You can learn more about El Vilsito in the Netflix documentary, Taco Chronicles.

Finish the night off at Departamento or Paramo

If you're not too stuffed from al pastor tacos, head over to one of Roma's lively nighttime joints. For dancing, check out Departamento . This two story venue has a proper nightclub on the main floor and a great rooftop patio/lounge. It's here where you can listen to the latest Mexican-inspired house music and dance with friendly locals.

If you're looking to sit and have a drink in a fun atmosphere that isn't touristy, Paramo is the spot . They play great music at just the right volume to make the space lively even if it's not full. We visited a few times during our stay.

Day 4: Frida Kahlo Museum / San Angel

Visit the inspiring Frida Kahlo Museum and explore the charming San Angel neighborhood

Your last day in Mexico City will take you to San Angel, a charming neighborhood located in the southwest outskirts of the city and to the Frida Kahlo Museum, the birthplace of one of Mexico's greatest artists. Plan to visit San Angel on a Saturday so you can shop the Saturday Bazaar.

Walk through Frida's home at the Frida Kahlo Museum

Frida Kahlo was a prominent painter from 1925-1954, who is now one of the most iconic figures of Mexican culture. Known for her self-portraits, one of her paintings recently sold for a record breaking $34.9 million dollars - the highest in Latin American history.

Frida Kahlo had a bold and fascinating life. After surviving a tragic bus accident that broke her pelvic bone, spine and legs, she was left bed-ridden for months. This is where she grew her passion for painting. Her influential art is a representation of her progressive political views and female sexuality, which has made her a feminist icon today.

We highly recommend watching the movie Frida (2002) before coming to Mexico City. Not only will you learn about her controversial life, you will also get to see Mexico City in a unique lens.

At La Casa Azul (The Blue House) you will get to walk through the house and garden where Frida grew up and where she learned how to paint. Make sure you buy your tickets online in advance. For international visitors, they cost $250 MXN (~$15.50 USD) per person).

Top tip: go on this tour first before shopping, since you can only walk around with a bag as big as a small backpack.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch in the garden of San Angel Inn

After your tour, it's a short drive over to San Angel, a lovely neighbourhood known for its cobblestone streets, cute shops and art markets.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at San Angel Inn, a gorgeous 17th century hacienda and former monastery that has been transformed into a restaurant. Its calming garden with fountains, flowers and greenery create a romantic atmosphere. This is a very popular spot, so you will need to make a reservation far in advance, especially if you want a spot in the garden!

Can't get a table at San Angel Inn? Sit in the back garden of Bistro 83 , an elegant restaurant close to the Saturday Market. If there is a wait for a garden table, pass the time at Mercado del Carmen, an open-air food hall with boutiques next door.

Have a Mezcal tasting at Mezcal El Bueno

Mezcal El Bueno in San Angel

After lunch, don't miss this hole-in-the-wall Mezcal shop in the same building as Bistro 83. Mezcal El Bueno sells some of the best artisanal Mezcal in the city. You can have a great conversation and will learn about the process by which the wild agave plants (not farmed) are found and processed into the quintessential Mexican spirit.

Shop the Saturday Bazaar

Saturday Bazaar in San Angel

After your Mezcal tasting, walk the cobblestone streets over to Plaza San Jacinto and Plaza Tenanitla to shop the Saturday Bazaar. Over a hundred stalls are set up selling traditional handcrafts, art, jewelry, and housewares. It was the best market we went to in Mexico City. We bought a large hand-woven rug and some jewelry.

If you're unable to fit a Saturday into your itinerary, there are some cute shops around the area that you can visit instead.

Eat at one of the World's 50 Best Restaurants

With Mexico's traditional cuisine listed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List, it's no wonder you will find some of the best restaurants in the world here. In Mexico City, two of its fine-dining restaurants have made the distinguished list of the World's 50 Best Restaurants : Pujol (#9) and Quintonil (#27). We tried both and they were outstanding for different reasons. For your last night, treat yourself to a culinary adventure of Mexican fine-dining.

Pujol: best for ambience

Pujol tasting menu

When you step inside Pujol you are immediately pulled into a remarkable glowing space that brings the outdoors into the indoors. The ambience makes you feel like you've been invited to one of the most exclusive and alluring restaurants in the city. The restaurant is famed for its mole madre that has been aged more than 1,000 days - a prime example of how they honour Mexico's indigenous culinary history.

Pujol offers a tasting menu and taco omakase (tasting) menu. With their taco omakase menu you sit at the bar, whereas with the tasting menu you sit at a table in the dining room. We tried both and preferred the food and setting of the tasting menu more.

Quintonil: best for the culinary experience

Tasting menu at Quintonil

We ordered the 10-course tasting menu at Quintonil and it was the first time at a fine-dining restaurant that we loved every single dish and wine pairing! This was totally mind blowing, usually there are dishes that are a "miss" but not this time. Authentic flavours are presented through advanced culinary techniques making each dish delicate yet impactful. From the spider crab in green mole to the cactus sorbet, it was perfection.

Compared to Pujol, what Quintonil lacked was in its ambience and interior design. Inside Quintonil it was a bit too bright and the music too soft to stimulate more energetic conversation. But it was no matter, the food more than made up for it.

If you're on a budget, Quintonil is a great choice since they also have a a-la-carte menu where you can choose your items, a rarity for a restaurant of this calibre.

Our Top 12 travel tips for Mexico City

1. watch the taco chronicles before your trip.

Taco Chronicles is a TV series available on Netflix that explores different types of tacos, like al pastor, carnitas, asada, barbacoa and canasta (basket tacos). It's a great show to binge watch right before visiting Mexico City, so you're familiar with the different types of tacos. Your stomach will be rumbling!

2. Don't be afraid of street food

You can get some of the best and cheapest bites from food vendors on the street. Watch the stands to see where the locals are eating at and be wary of eating meat in the morning, since it's usually leftovers from the night before. Tacos are only around 20 Pesos so you're paying a fraction of what you will in a restaurant.

3. Include a Saturday in your stay

Saturdays are when some of the best markets are happening, like the Saturday Bazaar. Many places are closed on Sundays and Mondays.

4. Double check opening hours on the business' website or Facebook/Instagram Page

Google is unreliable especially due to the pandemic - we were led astray many times.

5. Carry Mexican Pesos with you

Most places accept credit card, however you will need Mexican Pesos for most markets and street food vendors. Using US dollars is not a thing like it is in popular tourist destinations like Cancun.

6. Taste different types of Mezcal, not just Tequila

Did you know that Tequila is just one type of Mezcal made from one variety of agave? Agave is a desert plant that looks like a gigantic pineapple and there are a whopping 29 different varieties of it that can make Mezcal! What grapes are to wine is what agave is to Mezcal. We went Mezcal crazy and packed our wine suitcase full of it.

7. Some art galleries are by appointment only, email them in advance to avoid disapppointment.

Contacting the art galleries in advance will also confirm if they have current exhibitions.

8. Don't be deterred from visiting a shop if you only see a doorbell and address

Some of the galleries and shops we visited had no sign and just a doorbell and address. We would have missed out on some amazing places if we didn't buzz to get in! When they answer just say you are here to visit [name of place].

9. On your way to or from the airport, stop at El Pastorcito and Los Gueros for outstanding al pastor tacos

About 10 minutes away from the airport on Lorenzo Botuni Street you will find some of the most authentic taco joints in the city. We got the tip from the TV series, Taco Chronicles.

When you see the bright red and yellow buildings you will know you've arrived. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. We felt very welcome at El Pastorcito and Los Gueros and were excited to see we were the only tourists there! At 18 pesos per al pastor taco, it's incredible value.

10. Tell your waiter the tip before taking the card machine

Card machines don't have an automatic option for tip. Just tell your waiter what percent or dollar amount to add beforehand. People generally tip 10%-20% at restaurants.

11. A little Spanish goes a long way

Most of the street food vendors do not speak English. So learning how to order in Spanish will make life a bit easier. Of course, just learning Hello (Hola) and Thank You (Gracias) combined with a mix of non-verbal pointing and hand gesturing will get you through!

12. If you only have one choice:

• Best neighbourhood to stay in? Roma
• Best time to visit? Art week in February
• Art gallery or architecture tour? Tour Casa Luis Barragan
• The one taco you must eat: Al Pastor from El Vilsito
• The one breakfast item you should try? Chilaquiles
• Pujol or Quintonil? Pujol tasting menu in dining room
• Mexican drink you must try: Michelada (Beer with lime juice and a salt rim)
• The best Mezcal & tasting? El bueno, try the Tepeztate
• Best cocktail bar? Handshake

We hope you enjoyed this 4 day Mexico City itinerary! We know we will be back. After our trip, we flew back home into Vancouver and our winter looked greyer than ever - a complete contrast from the colourful city we just came from.

Check out our other Mexico City guides:

Check out our full list of the 33 top things to do in Mexico City

Combine Mexico City with a trip to Oaxaca: see our 3 Days in Oaxaca Itinerary and 5 Days in Oaxaca Itinerary .

Have more time to spend in Mexico City? Check out our other Mexico City guides:

• Ultimate 7 day Mexico City itinerary
• 5 Day Mexico City itinerary

Have less time to spend in Mexico City? See how to spend 2 Days in Mexico City .

Start planning your trip to Mexico City

• 🧳 Book your accommodation: Booking.com is our go-to for finding places to stay. Sort by top reviewed.
• 🛫 Book your flight to Mexico City: use Skyscanner to compare flights across different airlines (we recommend booking direct with the airline however).

Save and pin this 4 Day Mexico City Itinerary for later:

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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Neighborhoods to Know

Benito Juarez International Airport Guide

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48 Hours in Mexico City

Day Trips From Mexico City

Mexico City's Top Attractions

Free Things to Do

Best Museums to Visit

Guide to Chapultepec Park

Shopping in Mexico City

Annual Events

How to See a Lucha Libre Match

Food to Try in Mexico City

Top Restaurants

Your Trip to Mexico City: The Complete Guide

Mexico City is a huge and vibrant megalopolis with a fascinating history dating back to the time of the Aztecs. As one of the world's largest cities by population,   Mexico City can be intimidating, but it’s a vibrant, engaging place with an abundance of attractions and services for travelers of all types. This Mexico City travel guide will give you an introduction to the multi-faceted destination and has the information you need to plan your stay.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: If you can, plan your trip for the springtime, specifically late March or early April. At this time of year, the weather is warm during the day and cool at night, and the jacarandas are in bloom throughout the city. Language: Spanish is the main language spoken but there are several indigenous languages spoken in Mexico City (mainly Nahuatl, but also Mixteco, Otomí, Mazateco, and others). Many people who work in the tourism industry speak English, but the general population does not, so learn some Spanish phrases before you go! Currency: The Mexican peso (MXN) is the currency. The symbol is the same as a dollar sign ($), so be sure what currency prices are listed in (it will usually be pesos, but occasionally services offered to tourists are listed in US dollars ). Getting Around: A great way to explore Mexico City is by taking the Turibus , a hop-on-hop-off, double-decker, open-air sightseeing bus with stops at several of the city's main sights. However, the most economical way to get around is with public transportation. The Mexico City metro is large but fairly easy to navigate. When taking taxis, it's best to take authorized taxis or ask your hotel to call one for you. Alternatively, get an Uber. Travel Tip: On Mondays, most museums ( but not all! ) are closed, as is the first section of Chapultepec Park , so plan alternative activities if you’re in town on a Monday. Some ideas: go shopping, visit churches, go to Tlatelolco archaeological site (which doesn't have a museum), or visit the floating gardens in Xochimilco .

Things to Do

There is something for everyone in Mexico City. You can learn about the country's history, enjoy art in public spaces and museums, sample delicious food, shop until you drop, or enjoy a fun night out on the town. Art lovers, foodies, history buffs, and museum geeks will all be over the moon. As the site of the first Olympic games in Latin America and in a Spanish-speaking country,   sports history fans will be plenty entertained and even nature lovers will find something of interest (start by checking out the botanical garden on the UNAM campus )!

There is much more to do in Mexico City than you will have time for, so when planning your itinerary, do your research and prioritize. Be sure to leave plenty of time for getting from one place to the other—and for meals! Here are a few activities to get you started:

• Visit the Historic Center of Mexico City on foot, making stops at the Templo Mayor archaeological site which was the main temple of the Aztecs, the Metropolitan Cathedral which is Latin America’s largest and oldest cathedral, and the Palacio Nacional to see murals by Diego Rivera. The Historic Center is one of four UNESCO World Heritage sites in the city along with Xochimilco, the house of Luis Barragán, and the Central University City Campus.  
• Visit the National Anthropology Museum to learn about Mexico’s rich history and current ethnographic makeup.
• Go to the luchas ! Spend a fun evening watching a lucha libre wrestling show.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the top Mexico City sights , the best free things to do and Mexico City day trips . 

What to Eat and Drink

Mexico City is the country's cultural and geographical hub, and you'll find a wide variety of specialties from all over the country, as well as international options. From street side taco stands to gourmet restaurants like Pujol and Quintonil (which are considered among the world's top 50 restaurants), and everything in between, you're bound to eat well here. If street food intrigues you but you find it intimidating, take a street food tour to get an introduction so you’ll know what to order when you venture out on your own.

As for drinks, you can try some of the traditional beverages made with agave , mezcal and pulque (not to mention tequila), or check out one of the city's stylish cocktail bars for the latest mixology creations. Some of the most iconic places to grab a drink include Bar La Opera (which has bullet holes in the ceiling from the time of the Mexican Revolution), and Miralto bar on the 40th floor of the Torre Latinoamericana overlooking the Palacio de Bellas Artes.

Explore our articles on the top dishes to try in Mexico City , the city’s best dining experiences , and the best bars .

Where to Stay

There are endless options for accommodations in Mexico City including Airbnbs, boutique stays, and luxury hotels. Decent economical options abound in the historical center and Colonia Tabacalera (near the Revolution Monument). Stay at Hotel Zocalo Central or Downtown Mexico for a home base in the center of town with nice views. If you’d rather be a bit further away from the hustle and bustle, check out boutique hotels in La Condesa and Roma neighborhoods such as Red Tree House or La Valise. If you’re looking for luxury, you can enjoy an upscale stay at the St. Regis or the Four Seasons on Paseo de la Reforma, or Las Alcobas in swanky Polanco district. Explore the different neighborhoods you can stay in, and our recommendations for the best boutique hotels.

Getting There

You will most likely fly in to the Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX) or perhaps Toluca (TLC). If you’re arriving over land from a different destination in Mexico, your point of arrival will probably be one of Mexico City's four major bus stations which are situtated in four corners of the city. From your arrival point, take an authorized taxi or Uber to your accommodation ⁠— although hailing a cab on the street is not as risky as it used to be, it's better to play it safe. Driving in Mexico City is not recommended for first time visitors as it’s not an easy city to find your way around and traffic tends to be congested.

Culture and Customs

There are a few cultural differences and customs that you should be aware of in Mexico City. In general, Mexicans tend to be more formal than people from the United States and Canada. Even though you're on vacation, it's a good idea to dress somewhat conservatively—Mexicans rarely wear shorts or tank tops in the city, so if you don't want to stand out too much, try to dress like the locals. It’s important to greet people before asking a question with a buenos días (good morning), buenas tardes (good afternoon), or buenas noches (good evening), depending on the time of day. Also, keep in mind that por favor (please) and gracias (thank you) are words that you cannot over use.

Mexican mealtimes may be on a different schedule than what you're used to, with the main meal of the day taken in the afternoon between 2 and 4 p.m. In restaurants, the server will not bring you the bill until you request it. Ask for “ la cuenta, por favor, ” or make a sign of writing in the air. Check your bill to make sure, but usually the tip is not included, and you should add 10 to 20 percent tip depending on the level of service. Tipping is customary in bars and restaurants, but not so much in food stalls and markets (though always appreciated). It's also customary to tip bellhops and cleaning staff at your hotel.

Money-Saving Tips

Mexico City is a truly affordable city and offers outstanding value at all price points. It's an excellent vacation destination for anyone on a budget. Of course each traveler will have to decide for themselves what's worth a splurge and where they want to cut back, but there are a few simple ways to maximize savings during your stay:

• Follow the Mexican mealtime schedule: have a big breakfast, which is generally the least costly meal of the day, then hold out until 2 or 4 p.m. for another large meal—you can find restaurants serving a multi-course " comida corrida " fixed price meal, and then if you're hungry at night, grab some tacos.
• Get around using public transportation. The Mexico City metro only costs a few pesos and is fairly easy to figure out. Consider it part of the adventure!
• Don’t buy overpriced drinking water and snacks at your hotel or tourist sites. Hopefully your hotel offers purified drinking water so you can refill your own bottle, but if not, make sure you buy your water, drinks and snacks at a corner store to carry with you or to have at your hotel during the night.

Learn more about the cheapest ways to have fun by exploring these free things to do in Mexico City and consider some budget travel tips.

United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs. " World Urbanization Prospects 2018: Highlights." Page 17. 2019.

Visit Mexico. "Mexico City: Brief History."

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Discovering the Culture of Mexico City

Donald Trump wants to build walls, but south of the border, Mexico City's creative class is busy tearing them down: the ones between tradition and modernity, legend and reality. Welcome to the cultural cauldron of our time.

When you've spent millions of dollars modernizing your hometown, a building with your name on it just isn't enough. You get a neighborhood.

Once filled with decaying factories and a GM assembly plant, Slim City is tucked within Mexico City's exclusive Polanco district. It was born when the telecom tycoon and philanthropist Carlos Slim (Mexico's richest man—or the world's, depending on the year) began construction on a deluxe apartment tower there in 2008 and has grown into one of the most important real estate enclaves in the city, a glistening modern quarter with Burberry and Chanel shops, the city's first aquarium, and the irresistibly odd Museo Soumaya, named for Slim's late wife and designed by his son-in-law Fernando Romero. The structure has been variously described as a rockabilly coif and an aluminum corset (thanks to its skin of 16,000 hexagonal reflective aluminum tiles). Standing beneath its whimsical curvaceousness, you can't help but feel sorry for British architect David Chipperfield's blocky Museo Jumex, directly across the street. The latter, finished in 2013, hosts shows by contemporary art's superstars; the five-year-old Soumaya, a winding homage to New York's Guggenheim Museum inside, has a more eccentric, even random collection—everything from one of the biggest troves of Rodin sculptures in the world to turn-of-the-century cameos to ivory combs.

Both Slim City museums are expressions of the creative ferment that has seized Mexico City over the last decade, one that is attracting a different kind of traveler, one attuned to and fascinated by what native daughter, New York City resident, and frequent visitor Jana Pasquel de Shapiro calls its "cultural explosion."

The city, in fact, is having its biggest moment since Fridamania, the early 1990s love affair with Frida Kahlo that turned the tormented artist into both a proto-feminist icon and a tote bag. The restaurants here, thanks to a new generation of star chefs, now rival those in Paris, London, and New York; this year's World's 50 Best Restaurants list includes Jorge Vallejo's Quintonil at No. 12 and Enrique Olvera's Pujol at 25. Elsewhere, "Le Mexique des Renaissances" is occupying Paris's Grand Palais (through January 23, 2017). It's the largest European event dedicated to Mexican art since a massive exhibition at London's Tate Gallery in 1953, and you know what that means: Echoes of the recurring motifs and poppy colors of Mexico will be blooming on runways and at design shows.

Blooming, too, is Mexico City's contemporary art scene, driven in part by the 13-year-old Zona Maco, one of Latin America's largest festivals (February 8–12, 2017), the latest must-stop for international collectors. "What makes it so unique is how all disciplines—fashion, graphic design, art, architecture—are interwoven. The younger artists work together in a very organic way," says Marc Foxx, whose eponymous Los Angeles gallery will be represented at Zona Maco for the third straight year.

Yet even as so much has changed here, one thing remains, enticingly, the same: a deeply textured cultural life heavily indebted to history. "The connection to the past is very, very precious and can't be underestimated. It's what makes the art here unique," says Jos é Kuri, who runs Kurimanzutto, arguably the most influential gallery in Mexico City, with his wife Mónica Manzutto. "That's possibly hard to relate to in America, where moving forward is often prized above all else. We have modernity, of course, but as we innovate we are talking about and reflecting on our indigenous roots. It's why pre-Hispanic art continues to be a strong reference."

Nacho Rodríguez Bach, whose electronic murals reference Mayan art, invited me to dinner at Chapulín ("grasshopper"), a restaurant in Polanco whose chef, Josefina López Méndez, also riffs on tradition, in this case the UNESCO-protected cuisine of Oaxaca, the gourmet heart of the country. Twenty years ago the usual course for ambitious restaurants in Mexico City was to hire a chef from Paris. "The best chefs now are Mexican," says Rodríguez Bach, "making the most of what's native to the country." Including, commonly, insects. I notice some black specks in the two bowls of salt on the table. "One has ants and one has grasshoppers," he says. "To us, insects are a delicacy. You really taste the earth through them." Until recently, insects weren't offered to foreign diners, many of whom consider the idea of eating a bug (or earth, for that matter) disagreeable. I would include myself among those, but when in Mexico!

.css-4rnr1w:before{margin:0 auto 1.875rem;width:60%;height:0.125rem;content:'';display:block;background-color:#9a0500;color:#fff;} .css-gcw71x{color:#030929;font-family:NewParis,NewParis-fallback,NewParis-roboto,NewParis-local,Georgia,Times,serif;font-size:1.625rem;line-height:1.2;margin:0rem;}@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-gcw71x{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-gcw71x{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-gcw71x{font-size:2.8125rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-gcw71x b,.css-gcw71x strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-gcw71x em,.css-gcw71x i{font-style:italic;font-family:inherit;} The Mexican 'jokes about [death], caresses it, sleeps with it, celebrates it; it is one of his favorite toys and his most steadfast love.'

Between bites I remind Rodríguez Bach of something the great writer, poet, diplomat, and Nobel laureate Octavio Paz wrote in 1950, in The Labyrinth of Solitude: The Mexican "is familiar with [death], jokes about it, caresses it, sleeps with it, celebrates it; it is one of his favorite toys and his most steadfast love." He smiles and shrugs, as if to say, How could death not preoccupy us? Not only is this a country that devotes a multiday national holiday to the dead, but atrocities perpetuated by drug cartels and perhaps even the government continue to terrorize the country; 43 students who disappeared after a 2014 clash with police are still missing. "The drug cartels are becoming part of the culture. Their violence is a reality you can't deny," says Rodríguez Bach. "But you can't let that define you, as happened with Colombia. There are other stories to be told." Because of government media censorship, "art has become a way to speak out about things like political corruption and entrenched inequality."

But weren't Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Rivera's fellow muralists David Alfaro Siqueiros and José Clemente Orozco tackling corruption and censorship in the middle of the last century? "For a long time Mexican art has been about expressing revolution," Rodríguez Bach says. "In the U.S. you want to promote triumphs. Here there are no victories to document. Well, there's Cinco de Mayo, but that's it." He laughs. "But art here is moving away from the stereotypes of Diego and Frida. It's not decorative." The message may be similar, in other words, but the medium is evolving.

In the U.S. you want to promote triumphs. But here there are no victories to document. Art has been about expressing revolution.

Technology and sound art are major trends, and I wonder how Kahlo's and Rivera's soulfulness and humanity can be expressed via electronics. I get my answer at MUAC, the contemporary art museum on the campus of the National Autonomous University of Mexico, where I'm treated to a retrospective of Mexican-Canadian Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, an artist—gently political, often playful—who finds poetry in machines.

This reminds me of the Pritzker Prize–winning Mexican architect Luis Barragán, who similarly expressed warmth through geometry. He once wrote that he found it "alarming" that architecture magazines had banished words like "magic, spellbound, enchantment, and amazement"— expressions, he said, "that never ceased to be my guiding lights."

They strike me as words you could use on any given day in Mexico City, and certainly in the architect's former home and studio, now the museum Casa Luis Barragán, in the neighborhood of Miguel Hidalgo. It is, bizarrely, something of a secret to visitors, and yet it is one of the great highlights of the city. Through his reliance on natural light and his insistence on courtyard gardens, as well as the harmonic balance of his bold palette (I finally understood the power of pink when I first entered this house), Barragán's concrete boxes pulsate with life.

This is my fifth trip to Mexico City over 30 years, and I think often of what it is that keeps drawing me back. The setting is, of course, spectacular, with several volcanoes looming nearby (only one, "El Popo," remains active), in a valley that is a fabrication: What is ground was once a vast lake. The Aztecs commanded their empire from an island in its center, and the Spaniards then filled in the lake entirely. Centro Histórico, the historical heart of the city, has gotten a $438 million face-lift, with Carlos Slim buying dozens of centuries-old buildings for rehabilitation, but many still tilt precipitously as the land sinks, Venicelike, back into its natural state.

History has played rough here, the paving over of a lake the least of it. Occupiers came and went, some foreign, some homegrown, leaving a trail of horror, pomp, and hubris in their wake. As Paz wrote, "To us, a pessimist is a realist." He went on to add that Americans love "fairy tales and detective stories and we love myths and legends." It is a fatalistic mind-set, one appealingly at peace with uncertainty. And that is what brings me back: the people and their singular blend of melancholy and exuberance, as well as a wry humor that typically greets every setback. (To wit: An avenue of piñata shops offering, since the start of the American presidential contest, papier-mâché Donald Trumps, the candidate who wants to build a wall between Mexico and the United States.)

But until this trip, the physical beauty of the city, its romantic grandeur, had struck me as a dusty relic. Today the most charming neighborhoods fall somewhere between old and new—like the trendy Roma and Condesa, separated by the city's longest avenue, Avenida de los Insurgentes. These districts have a faded charm that I find more appealing than the slick elegance of Polanco. Both were wealthy and fashionable enclaves that went to seed, and much of the grand architecture remains (Condesa is a showcase for Art Deco– style apartments), housing the restaurants, bars, and galleries that have transformed the area into a locus for art and food lovers.

The food, long trapped in amber, is a revelation. Take mole. I never really got the appeal of this ubiquitous Mexican sauce. It took one of the city's new generation of chefs—Edgar Núñez of Sud 777—to convert me. He served duck topped with a life-changing version; I could taste pumpkin seeds, cinnamon, and what seemed to be bananas, the whole thing more piquant than sweet, a pleasing foil to the rich meat. Núñez is, like his fellow top chefs, catapulting ancient underpinnings—old strains of corn or peppers, techniques that stretch back to Mesoamerica—into something unexpected.

I was lucky enough to get a reservation, too, at Quintonil, a relaxed, chic temple to vegetables and herbs, many of them grown in the restaurant's garden. Chef Jorge Vallejo is inspired, as was my second helping of insects: an avocado tartare with escamoles (ant larvae, or, more aspirationally, insect caviar—an Aztec delicacy), topped with a dusting of onion ashes and dried seaweed. I am now down with eating bugs.

My final culinary epiphany occurred on my last night, at Licorería Limantour, Mexico City's foremost cocktail bar. The tattooed hipster bartender told me there's an old saying in Mexico: "For every ill, mezcal, and for every good as well." Tequila I know well, but mezcal was the weird local brew that came with a worm in the bottle.

The bartender quickly brought me up to speed. Tequila, a style of mezcal, can be distilled only from the blue agave plant; mezcal is made from some 30 other varieties of agave native to Mexico. Very few producers include worms. Maestros del Mezcal—the "vintners" of the agave plant—are appalled by the idea of mezcal cocktails. They recommend two to three shots, tops. It is for savoring (there are notes derived from a mixture of varieties, methods of preparation, and aging), not for getting drunk—but at 55 percent alcohol, versus tequila's 31 to 38 percent, you will feel it.

All apologies to the maestros, but I prefer mezcal in a cocktail. I find that its defining smokiness, from the underground roasting of the agave, transmogrifies the most mundane of ingredients. It occurred to me, as I sipped, that this is an appropriate national spirit for a country that can spin tragedy, the ordinary, even the improbable into something transcendent. It is a Frida Kahlo selfportrait, her beating heart resting on her chest, evoking personal devastation and Aztec cannibalism. But it is also on every plate, on every street in Mexico City, in every creative endeavor as chefs and artists communicate their rich, complex culture.

Or perhaps I was just drunk. There's an old myth about mezcal causing hallucinations, and as I was going back to my hotel the car passed what could have been an apparition: A man in the middle of traffic was balancing a sword on his nose while juggling three others. I mentioned this to the driver, in the hopes that he saw it too. He wasn't surprised that such a person might exist. Then again, he didn't see him.

This story appeared in the Fall/Winter 2016 Travel Issue.

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The Ultimate Mexico City 7-Day Itinerary to See the Sights and Soak up the Culture [UPDATED 2022]

Mexico City is a place whose history is rooted within the heart and soul of the people who live there. Despite being a short flight from most major US and Canadian cities, it feels like travelling to an entirely different world! With a vibrant art scene and fantastic foodie culture that rivals big cities like New York, Tokyo and Rome. Mix great art and food with awe-inspiring architecture and history and you’ll see why Mexico City has quickly become one of the most sought-after travel destinations. Set between tall mountains and volcanoes, you are nestled into this little valley. Here, the weather is almost always warm, but not too hot . A sweet escape from those suffering through those bitter cold winter months. With this amazing 7-day itinerary you’ll be able to experience all the magic Mexico City has to offer!

Ignacia $$$

Dinner in la condesa, roma norte dinner, dinner in polanco, go to a lucha libra show, entertainment along the canal.

Where to Stay

Chaya b&b boutique  $.

Located in the heart of Mexico City, facing the Alameda Park,  Chaya Bed an Breakfast  is tucked away inside a recently renovated building which provides travellers a budget-friendly hotel experience with public spaces throughout where you can meet other guests, enjoy the rooftop views across Mexico city or just relax on the hammocks after one of the many incredible meals you’ll have in this city. Prices are listed as $145 for the standard room, but I’ve found that on sites like booking.com or Expedia they are often on offer for as low as $91/night!

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AR218  – $$

AR218  is located in my favourite neighbourhood, La Condesa, inside an old 1930’s bungalow which still is decorated with the original talavera floorings while the rest of the hotel has been given a modern update with sleek urban designs. Every room is spacious and contains luxurious amenities that include state-of-the-art technology, cosy and comfy living rooms which make relaxing back at the hotel a joy. If you like to cook some meals they even have fully equipped kitchenettes for your convenience. AR218 is a full-service hotel and offers free bike rentals as well as a slew of technological devices great for travellers like extra battery packs and charging cords. Prices online range but I’ve found rooms for as little as $150 a night.

Ignacia Guest House  is technically located in  Roma Norte  but is just on the edge of the Southern borders. Under the purple blossoms of the Jacaranda tree lining the streets, you will be welcomed home. The house was originally an old 20th-century mansion that has been transformed into just six elegant suites. Since there are so few rooms, everyone who stays here feels like family.

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Day One – Take it Easy

Adjust to the altitude.

Mexico City is located 7,200 feet (2,200 metres) above sea level! So you’ll find it’s worth giving yourself some time to adjust to the altitude when you arrive. Even if you are lucky enough not to experience any of the severe side effects, most travellers will feel a little more tired than usual. Or you might have to exert more effort than you might be used to when walking. The best way to fight the altitude is to drink lots and lots of water. And maybe avoid those cocktails for the first night.

After dropping your bags off at your hotels, I would recommend a leisurely walk around La Condesa . La Condesa is a very tourist-friendly neighbourhood which makes it a relaxing place to explore just when you arrive.

La Condesa is famous for its tree-lined avenues with wide pedestrian sideways located in the centre of the road. Along the streets, you’ll see art nouveau mansions and art deco-inspired apartment buildings. “ Condesa ” means “ countess ” as it was named for the Countess of Miravalle . The Countess once owned all the land in this area. Wander along Amsterdam Avenue, which is a circular loop that wraps around one of the city’s best parks. On either side of the street, you’ll find incredible coffee shops and fantastic eateries. Stop into any that catches your eye to fuel up! In this area the food and drinks are so good you really can’t go wrong.

Parque México

Make your way to Parque México . If you arrived on the weekend, you’ll find that this park is filled to the brim with families and their dogs. Parque México has one of the largest dog parks and public spaces in the city. And it is absolutely vibrating with energy on the weekend. Dozens of street vendors line the outskirts of the parks where you’ll be able to try a myriad of different local street food . My personal favourite are the fresh slices of mango, topped with lime and chilli! Spicy and sweet, the perfect combination.

Stop for a Churro

Stop off for a churro and hot chocolate at Churrería El Moro on the corner of the park. This churro cafe has a few locations around Mexico City and is a reliable place for fresh, delicious churros. Be sure to get the Mexican hot chocolate to dip your churros into as you eat as is the custom.

To end your night in La Condesa, grab a bite to eat. As it’s our first day in town, let’s just do something quick and easy and save those luxurious dinners for later in the week. And honestly, I’m sure everyone is dying to eat what they  really  came to Mexico City for;  TACOS !  El Tizoncito  is known for its incredible tacos, Al Pastor. Despite being a chain, it is my favourite place to eat tacos in Condesa. Fast, cheap and friendly! Plus, their salsas are an excellent way to enhance the flavour! 

If you want to try a bunch of different types of tacos in a very unintimidating place, head over to  El Farolito Altata  or  Taquería El Califa.  These are both fast-food-like restaurants with great menus with almost every kind of taco you can think of. While there might be better versions of these tacos in street stands all over the city, this is a great place to try them and see what you like. Then, once you’re a little more settled, you can try the street food tacos!

Day Two – Explore the Historic City Centre

After a leisurely first day, it’s time to hit the streets. The Historic Centre of Mexico City is one of the busiest areas of the city. I’d recommend heading to the centre early in the morning. This will result in seeing fewer tourists out and about when you first arrive to get your bearings. By the afternoon you’ll see how much more crowded it gets!

Pastelería Ideal

Start your morning at Pastelería Ideal . This bakery has been serving flaky pastries and sweet cakes for over 100 years! The morning rush in here is hectic but the bustling atmosphere is absolutely infectious! Huge carts and trays full of sugared treats rush up and down the aisles. The smell of sugar and bread fills the air as soon as you walk in the door.

Take a tray and pick a few of the best-looking sweets. Then head over to one of the counters. While they pack up your treats, they’ll pass you your receipt. You have to pay at another counter. Once you’ve paid you can show your paid stamp to the same people who packed your order and you’ll be ready to go. Seems complicated but honestly I kinda love the process as it feels so retro. Take your sweets with you and head to the Zócalo to enjoy breakfast with a view!

The Zócalo is the main square in Mexico City. Before the Spanish invasion, this was the site of important ceremonies for the Aztec people of Tenochtitlan . Still today you’ll find lots of ceremonies happening in the square. Everything from wearing in of viceroys, royal proclamations, military parades, Independence services and festivals like Day of the Dead can be found here in the square.

The Zocalo is dominated by the enormous flag of Mexico City . The Mexican flag is full of national symbolism. The green stripe represents the Independence Movement. The white stripe represents the purity of the Catholic faith. The red stripe represents the Spaniards that joined in the quest for Independence and the blood of the national heroes. The emblem-shield symbolizes the Aztec heritage. According to legend, the gods had advised the Aztecs that the place where they should establish their city was to be identified when they saw an eagle, perched on a prickly pear tree, devouring a serpent. They saw this mythical eagle on a marshy lake that is now the main plaza in Mexico City.

Cathedral of the Assumption

Across from the Zócalo is the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary into Heavens . After the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire, the Spaniards build their church on the site of the Templo Mayor . The Templo Mayor was the gem of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan . Stones from the destroyed temple of the Aztec were used to build the church. And while we mourn the destruction of the old temple, it is amazing to stare up at the church and see stones from over 1000 years ago.

The construction of the Cathedral began in 1573 and took until 1813 to complete! The enormous cathedral is over 350 feet long and 200 feet wide. This makes it Latin America’s largest and oldest cathedral.

Its enormous size means the Cathedral has four distinct facades. Each facade more elaborately embellished than the next. The church is a patchwork quilt of different styles of architecture and decorations, including Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassic. Although the 215-foot bell tower, containing 25 bells, is proudly done up in a Mexican style of architecture.

National Palace

Head down the street towards the entrance to the National Palace. This place is an enormous museum and art gallery featuring many famous works of art. It’s free to enter , you just need to leave a piece of ID at the gate. And don’t worry, they keep it safe and you’ll get this back when you leave. Because it is free to entre, I would recommend keeping things short, and picking one part of the museum to explore. My recommendation would be the series of murals by Diego Rivera inside the main courtyard. Seeing everything can be pretty overwhelming and I always feel like a shorter visit makes the information more digestable.

The History of Mexico

The murals which encompass the courtyard are called ‘ The History of Mexico ‘ painted on the main stairwell. Diego Rivera began painting it in 1929 and took over six years to complete. The subject of the mural is Mexico’s history from ancient times to the present day. From north to south the mural depicts the struggles of the indigenous Mexican people against foreign invaders and local dictators.

My favourite aspect of the mural are the depictions of the Aztec people and their rich culture. You can see every day Aztecs at work and play. See images of their icons of worship as well as images of their traditional dress. On the south wall, you’ll see an image of a woman holding the communist manifesto. This is Frida Kahlo , Diego Rivera’s wife. Although at the time Frida was only the woman behind Rivera, she would go on to be even more famous than Diego himself. More on her later!

Azul Historico

After finishing at the museum, wander down the long pedestrian avenue Francisco I. Madero . This street is filled with incredible old historical buildings. If you’re looking for something to eat head to one of the city’s most sought-after restaurants,  Azul Historico . This restaurant features an indoor-outdoor courtyard where you’ll eat under a tree canopy. The restaurant serves up traditional Mexican cuisine with its own unique flair. One of the most popular dishes is the guacamole with fried crickets, absolutely delicious and a must-try!

Torre Tower

To cap off your lunch, head to the Torre Tower for a view over Mexico City. The tower requires admission for the viewing deck but it’s free to access if head up to the restaurant or bar. If you get a drink at the bar or snack at the restaurant you’ll be able one of the best views in the city! It might be a little pricier than other places in Mexico City, but think of it as a viewing tax.

Palacio de Bellas Artes

After looking at it from above, head down to see the Palacio de Bellas Artes . The Palacio de Bellas Artes hosts events in music, dance, theatre, opera and literature. Therefore it was aptly nick-named the “ Cathedral of Art in Mexico “. The exterior of the building is primarily Neoclassical and Art Nouveau and the interior is primarily Art Deco. If the line up isn’t too long, head inside to see the iconic murals by Diego Rivera as well as other famous Mexican artists.

Diego Rivera Mural Museum

If the line up is really long you can always opt to go the Diego Rivera Mural Museum down the road instead. This museum houses one of Diego Rivera’s most famous painting, Dream of a Sunday afternoon in the Alameda .

National Post Office

Across from the Belle Arts building is the National Post Office . While it might seem strange to visit a post office, this one is truly spectacular. The Postal Palace of Mexico City was designed at a time when the post office became a separate government entity. They wanted to show off their power and designed a building with a very eclectic style for the time.

It blends Art Nouveau, Spanish Renaissance Revival, Plateresque, Spanish Rococo style, Elizabethan Gothic, Elizabethan Plateresque and Venetian Gothic Revival all together. And while trying to blend that all together would result in a mess, it is anything but. This building is so iconic to Mexico’s architectural style that it inspired the design for the Department of Family Reunions in the Pixar film, Coco.

Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela

Spend the rest of the afternoon shopping at the nearby Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela. This is the best market to shop for handicrafts and souvenirs. The market looks like a veritable rainbow and even if you walk away with nothing (which I doubt you will) it’s still an incredible place to explore and enjoy. I have an entire post of the best items to buy when you’re visiting if you want to make a checklist! Trust me, this is super handy since it’s so easy to get lost or carried away in this place.

Make your way to Roma Norte for dinner. Colonia Roma, as it is also known, was established as an upper-class neighbourhood in the 1900s. At the time, Mexico City wasn’t as large as it is today, and this neighbourhood was considered the newest suburbs of the capital. The design of this European-inspired neighbourhood was meant to appeal to the noble aristocrats. Since the area was badly damaged in the huge earthquake of 1985, many of the buildings were not subjected to modernization. Today it remains as a vestige of another time from Mexico City’s history. Today, Roma is the epicentre of hipster culture in the city with streets lined with restaurants, bars, clubs, shops, cultural centres, and galleries. This is where you can find some of the best sit-down restaurants in the city.

For a gorgeous meal in a modern setting check out Rosetta . Reservations are recommended well in advance for a spot at this hot-spot. For something more laid back and experimental check out the Mercado Roma . This spot is designed to feel like an upscale market. Here you’ll find a series of different vendors spread out so you can try a sampling of different dishes.

After dinner, head to the stylish Gin Gin bar for a few drinks to cap off the night. Not only is the bar incredible chic, I love gin and this is the place to go for some amazing gin cocktails.

Day Three – Chapultepec Park

Bosque de chapultepec.

After a busy day in the historic district, it’s time to slow down and relax in Chapultepec Park . Chapultepec or “Bosque de Chapultepec” is one of the largest city parks in the Western Hemisphere. The entire park is over 1,600 acres! A city this dense and populated needs fresh air and this park act as its lungs. The vast forest of trees replenish fresh air throughout the Valley of Mexico. The name Chapultepec stems from the Nahuatl word chapoltepēc which means “at the grasshopper’s hill”.

Chapultepec Castle

Start your day at Chapultepec Castle . Chapultepec Castle is the ONLY true royal castle in the Americas, as it was actually the residence of the viceroys when the country was ruled by Spain. It was built in 1785 as a summer house for the royals. Not only is this castle a marvel of Mexican-Spanish architecture and interior design, but the view from the terrace over the park and the city are unrivalled.

You can spend hours wandering this home and discovering secrets around every corner. My favourite part is all the incredible stained glass filtering in that beautiful morning sunlight.

Street Food

After finishing up at the castle, walk back the hill towards Avenue H. Colegio Militar. This road will weave its way through the forest towards the best lookout point across Chapultepec Lake. This avenue is absolutely packed with street vendors! Although there is a larger “food court” beside the lake, I would avoid this area. Perhaps since they have more permanent booths, the food can be left inside and therefore isn’t of the highest quality. But the food vendors that flank the roadways are really delicious. So stick with them! These might not be as filling as the meals on offer in the food court area, but you’re better off with a safe bet.

Below are a few of my favourite street snacks so you can keep your eyes out for these reliably delicious traditional treats.

• Chicharron : deep-fried pigskin doused in chilli sauce and freshly squeezed lime juice.  Duritos : Duritos (not to be mixed up with Doritos) are a wheat-based pinwheel-shaped snack topped with hot sauce and lime.
• Dorilocos : If you’re looking for something more like a meal, find your way to the Dorilocos vendor. This dish is made by taking a bag of Doritos and slicing it down the long edge, so it opens like a bowl. Then they top it with Mexican radish, shredded cucumber and carrot and Japanese peanuts. Then, of course, it’s topped with lime juice and hot sauce on top. 
• Papas : freshly made potato chips served with hot sauce and lime.

National Museum of Anthropology

After lunch head over the National Museum of Anthropology . This museum contains archaeological and anthropological artifacts from Mexico’s pre-Columbian heritage. It’s is perhaps one of the most powerful and interesting museums I’ve seen. The enormous artifacts from the Aztecs cultures, as well as lesser-known indigenous cultures like the Toltec, Mixtec, Zapotec, and Olmec are larger than life and command your attention. If you don’t know much about the pre-hispanic history of Mexico, this is a wonderful place to start learning.

El Lago de Chapultepec

Finish your day in the park with a padel around El Lago de Chapultepec . This man-made lake is one of the most picturesque places to take a little blue paddle boat and take in the scenery. The views from the middle of the lake are fantastic and even look out at the  Colonia Polanco . The boats cost 60-100 pesos/hour (around the U.S. $3). Normally, such a touristy activity would price gouge visitors but not here in the park. The locals enjoy a ride as much as the tourists, so prices are kept low to ensure everyone can enjoy a day out!

For dinner, let’s head just north of the park to the fanciest neighbourhood in Mexico City; Polanco . Polanco is known for its upscale boutiques and luxury stores. But it also had great food hidden amongst the otherwise ubiquitous shops. If you want to go all out, make reservations at the famous Pujol restaurants. As of 2022, Pujol stands at #9 on the list of the world’s best restaurants ! Reservations book up months and months in advance so be sure to get yours as soon as you can. But if you find there are no spots lefts, keep checking as sometimes people make cancellations and something will pop up out of the blue.

If you can’t snag a reservation at Pujol or don’t wanna spend that kind of cash there are lots of other options. One of my faves is El Turix , a little hole in the wall that sells Cochinita Pibil in a multitude of ways. My pick is always the taco but the torta and tamale are also great choices! Cochinita Pibil is best known as a dish from the Yucatec Mayan peninsula and this is the best place to try it outside of the Yucatan!

Day Four – Frida Khalo’s Coyoacán

Coyoacán is one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods, just south of the centre of town. The name comes from the Nahuatl word meaning “ place of coyotes .” Today, Coyoacán is most notable for its amazing marketplace, brightly coloured yet quiet streets and gorgeous greenery. But most importantly, it’s where you’ll find the Casa Azul ; Frida Khalo ‘s home which has been preserved as a museum.

Café Avellaneda

Because this sleepy village doesn’t rise early in the morning, head over to Café Avellaneda for a late brunch. This small but charmingly decorated cafe serves up some inventive, and cosy meals. Give the Chilaquiles Verdes a try or opt for the waffles covered in their selection of seasonal fruit! Great way to try some of the best produce from the marketplace!

Iglesia De Coyoacan

After filling your belly with food, head over to the Iglesia De Coyoacan . The first church was built here in 1577. The site was given to the Franciscan parish by Hernan Cortes, a Spanish Conquistador who led an expedition that caused the fall of the Aztec Empire. Over the years the church has changed appearance from its original form. Renovations and fires continued to shape its evolution but the current church is no less beautiful than all its predecessors.

The facade is a classical herrerian design with geometric rigour and an overall absence of decorations. This is so that when you enter the church there is a huge juxtaposition to what you find walking through the large wooden doors. The interior is covered in baroque gilded decorations, mindblowing ceiling frescos of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, a fantastical work of Juan de Fabregat. The interior feels grand and yet at the same time very intimate. When we visited there were a large group of locals, praying on their way to work.

Centenario Garden and Hidalgo Garden

Outside of the church spend some time wandering the two adjoining parks; Centenario Garden and Hidalgo Garden. In the middle of these gardens is a large canopied rotunda where on the weekend you’ll often hear music being played.

Children are seen playing in the square, and brightly coloured balloons and toy vendors decorate the surroundings. In the centre of the park is a fountain which contains a bronze sculpture of two coyotes. In reference to the original meaning of the borough’s name.

Cafe El Jarocho

For a little pick me up on your way to the market, head over to Cafe El Jarocho . This place has been serving customers in Coyoacan for 63 years and is a veritable piece of history. It’s an unpretentious coffee shop and a great alternative to just another Starbucks. Give their mocha a try since it’s famous for being made with traditional Mexican chocolate and some of their locally grown beans.

Mercado de Coyoacán

Next, you’ll finally arrive at the golden yellow facade of the Mercado de Coyoacán . The interior of this busy market is tightly packed with spices, toys, fruits and vegetables and wonderfully smelling flowers. But the main reason for visiting this market is for their famous tostadas! At lunchtime, the lines can get pretty long, but it moves quickly and gives you time to scope out what you want. The ceviche tostadas with a thick slices of avocado to cut the acidity of the fish are absolute perfection!

Casa Azul – Frida Kahlo Museum

But what most people come to Coyocan for is the Casa Azul , also known as  The Frida Kahlo Museum . This was where Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera lived. Frida herself grew up in this family home when her parents owned it. She would later return here to seek refuge from her pain and from the public. Frida is one of the most influential surrealist artists. Her work was inspired by her life, the natural environment and many elements from her Mexican hertiage.

The museum is less of a simple art gallery and more like an inside look at her private world. Although there are a few paintings from both artists, the main focus of the Casa Azul is the couple’s Mexican folk art, pre-Hispanic artefacts, photographs, memorabilia, personal items, and more. You feel a deep connection with these artists by literally walking in their footsteps. This is an unmissable experience for anyone interested in art or Frida herself.

Parque Santa Catarina

As you head towards where you’ll have dinner, stop off in the Parque Santa Catarina . This lovely parkette is dominated by the marigold painted church of Santa Catarina. The square is often a site for party and, and there is usually a remnant of those events still holding onto the sunlight.

Casa de Cultura Jesús Reyes Heroles

Across from the park is the Casa de Cultura Jesús Reyes Heroles. This centre is free to enter and a beautiful place to rest your feet and explore. The “House of Culture” was named in honour of the distinguished historian and political scientist, Jesús Reyes Heroles. In this public centre, you’ll see people writing an essay, practising dance, earning music, having meetings and more!

Mesón Antigua

Across from the Casa de Cultura Jesús Reyes Heroles is the Mesón Antigua. This cosy and welcoming restaurant serves up traditional Mexican food in a charming environment. It’s a great place to try some traditionally made mole and while away the evening on the terrace, watching locals on their way home from work and lovers meeting the park. People watching at its finest.

If you feel up for some evening entertainment I would highly recommend going to a  Lucha Libre  show!  Lucha Libre  is basically Mexican Wrestling and even if you aren’t even the slightest bit of a wrestling or sports fan, going to these shows is soooo much fun. We’ve gone both with a tour group and on our ownand its a blast either way. Going on your own is much cheaper, as tickets are only about $25 USD but going with the group is a wonderful experience for first-timers. They teach you all about the history of the sport and why it has become such an important part of the Mexican identity. Everywhere you go in Mexico City you’ll see Lucha masks for sale and everything from t-shirt to magnet with famous wrestlers on them so it’s good to find out for yourself what this is all about.

Day Five – The Old City of Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan is one of those places you hear about, and everyone tells you to visit. I was a bit on the fence when I first heard about it, the pictures never really do a place that vast justice, and I didn’t know what to expect. But after going I can tell you, it is indeed a must see part of Mexico and somewhere which taught me a lot about the culture and the history of this country. Teotihuacan is an ancient Mesoamerican city where over 125,000 people once lived in around 100 BCE! At the time it was one of the largest cities in the entire world. Teotihuacan’s pyramids are its most famous site. The Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon were laid out in a geometric and symbolic plan which mirrored the stars.

Climbing up the Pyramid of the Sun is a challenge, especially on a hot day, so arriving early is key! Not only did we find the pyramids were way less crowded than later on in the day, but it was the perfect temperature. The Pyramid of the Sun is 140-feet (43-meters) high with a base measuring 426 by 511 feet (130 by 156 meters). Its the largest of the pyramids and gives you the best view from atop of the surrounding landscape and other ancient structures.

In addition to seeing the pyramids, you’ll also have the chance to explore the multi-family residential compounds, the Avenue of the Dead and the amazingly vibrant murals which reflect how bright and colourful all these structures once were. These incredible pieces of history have been incredibly well-preserved after all this time and looking at them you are blown away by the seemingly modern designs they were making thousands of years ago.

There are multiple ways to get to Teotihuacan. The most popular method is by guided tour . This was the option we chose and ended up booking a semi-private tour through Airbnb experience. You can also opt to take public transit or even schedule an Uber driver to take you to the site which is about 1 hour and 20 minutes outside the city depending on your location.

If you’re looking for a seat with a view, there is no other option for lunch other than ‘La Gruta’. This restaurant is located inside a prehistoric cave, just a few steps away from the Teotihuacan Pyramids. Here you will get the chance to taste delicious dishes that mix local ingredients with pre-Hispanic recipes. You also get to enjoy traditional Mexican folk dance shows while dining. Seats often book quickly, so reservations are recommended.

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There are a few smaller museums around the Pyramid sites, but I would recommend spending more time exploring the actual pyramids themselves and the areas around them. It’s incredible how much you’re allowed to climb on and venture into, and there is always something new to discover for yourself.

Day Six – Xochimilco

Xochimilco is the Venice of Mexico. It’s an enormous network of canals that spread across this southern district of Mexico City. Xochimilco means “Floating Gardens” as the Aztecs created chinampas which were artificial agricultural plots rich in minerals and there they would plant thousands of flower fields. Today, Xochimilco is UNESCO World Heritage Site as it preserves this Aztecs technology. The main pier I would advise boarding your boat from is located about 45 minutes outside the centre of town but is well, well worth the effort to get there. I have  an entire guide on Xochimilco  so if you want to know all the tips and tricks for visiting definitely check that out as this is just a brief overview!

Mercado Xochimilco

You’re allowed to bring whatever food and drinks you want onto the boat but if you have time to stop, check out the Mercado Xochimilco before arriving at the pier. You can load up with fresh sweet and savoury treats to enjoy on your journey!

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Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas

Be sure to arrive at the ‘Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas’. There are multiple embarcaderos, or ‘piers’, which service the canals but the Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas is the official pier to catch your boat and where you’ll find the most honest pricing.

The boats which run up and down the river are called ‘Trajineras’. The maximum rate set by the city is 500 pesos per hour, per boat (not per person as some tricky boatmen might quote you). You can try and haggle your way down but unless you have a good grasp on Spanish haggling, you’ll find it pretty difficult to get the rides any cheaper than 400-450 pesos per hour. It’s up to you how long you want to be on the canals but I would honestly say I wish we’d gone out for longer! Plus, the longer you go, the better chance you’ll have of striking a deal!

One of the most enjoyable parts of the experience is the food. Food is available throughout the canals as you travel. Vendors with roasted corn, coconut water, fresh tacos, cold beer and spicy micheladas float up and down the canals. The prices are more than you’d pay in the market but you pay for the privilege of having them coming right to your boat!

As soon as you set off into the canals, the sound of musicians playing across the waters can immediately be heard. Mariachi bands floating on their own individual boats float down the river. As they pass you by they’ll offer to board your boat and play a song or two or really as many as you want!

Songs cost about 150 pesos per number but are cheaper the more songs you want. In addition to the mariachi bands, you’ll also see various smaller boats with only 2 to 3 people playing the xylophones as they float down the canal.

Day Seven – Back Home

Since it’s your last day, it’s best to take it easy. Most flights out of Mexico City require you to be at the airport at least 3 hours early. And you have to remember traffic to the airport can add in some travel time to that as well. So best not to plan too many activities. Instead of a big activity, I would head down to Lalo! for a delicious, laid-back brunch in the Roma Norte neighbourhood.

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If you have any time left, I would recommend wandering through any park that’s close by. Parks in Mexico City are truly spectacular places. They have a certain kind of magic that you just want to soak up before leaving. Grab some street treats and take a seat on a bench to marvel at the light coming through the trees. Watch the smiling people milling about with their adorable dogs and get ready to miss everything you’ve come to love about this city.

While seven days might not be nearly enough time to see everything there is to see in Mexico City, it certainly is a great start . And trust me, after one visit, you’ll be planning your next trip as soon as you return home!

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5-day Private Luxury Culture Trip to Mexico City

Price: Please inquire

From visiting art museums, cathedrals, and archeological ruins to shopping in bazaars and markets, this luxury trip to Mexico City is the ultimate exploration of the capital for the discerning travel.

Packed into this five-day itinerary is an exploration around Mexico City’s huge main plaza (one of the largest in the world) with stop-offs at the famous National Palace and Templo Mayor. Also explore the ancient archeological zone of Teotihuacan plus the artistic neighborhoods of San Angel and Coyoacán.

Furthermore, you’ll take a colorful boat down the waterways of Xochimilco and visit the home of Mexican icon Frida Kahlo. If there’s still more you’d like to do, speak to a Journey Mexico Travel Planner who can help you extend the vacation.

PHOTO GALLERY

Mexico City historic center – Go on a privately guided tour of Mexico City’s important historic center

Zócalo – Enjoy a guided tour of the Zócalo and admire the cathedral, the National Palace, and Templo Mayor

Teotihuacan – Explore this stunning archaeological zone famous for some of the world’s largest pyramids, the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon

San Angel and Coyoacán –Visit these charming neighborhoods for quaint streets, bustling markets, and fascinating museums

Xochimilco  –  Let a colorful trajinera boat take you down the ancient Aztec waterways of Xochimilco

Day 1: Arrival to Mexico City

You will be welcomed at Mexico City International Airport by a Journey Mexico guide and privately transferred to your hotel. Tonight dinner is reserved at the celebrated Limosneros restaurant, where the menu pays homage to traditional Mexican cuisine but with a modern touch. Overnight:  Four Seasons Mexico City

Day 2: Visit San Angel, Coyoacán, and Xochimilco

Enjoy a privately guided exploration of Mexico City’s subtler side; first heading to the charming suburb of San Angel for the Bazar Sabado (Saturday Bazaar). Pick up a gift or two at this bustling market held along cobblestone streets and the pretty San Jacinto Plaza. Also visit the Casa Estudio de Diego Rivera, the former home of Mexican icons and artists Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo to see their workshop and original pieces by Rivera.

On to Coyoacán, where you will enjoy lunch at the gourmet restaurant Los Danzantes before touring the artisanal market, Bazar Artesanal de Coyoacán. You may also opt to visit the famous Casa Azul, the birthplace and home of Kahlo where you can see original works by Frida as well as photos and other artifacts from her life.

After, explore the gorgeous ancient Aztec waterways of Xochimilco on a two-hour private ride in a traditional trajinera river boat.

Overnight Four Seasons Mexico City

Day 3: Tour the National Anthropology Museum and Zócalo

Today brings a guided tour into Mexico City, starting with a trip to the world-renowned National Anthropology Museum. Enjoy listening to your guide’s expert insight which will add contour and color to the myriad of fascinating exhibits.

Then continue to the historic city center with guided visits to the capital’s most celebrated landmarks including the Catedral Metropolitana, the Templo Mayor, Palacio Nacional, the Zócalo, Palacio de Bellas Artes, and more.

Note: Some sites from today´s itinerary may be temporarily closed due to Covid-19 restrictions. In this case, your travel planner will make adjustments for the best experience on the day, based on your preferences, availability, and travel dates.

Day 4: Teotihuacan and Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Dive into the rich history of Mexico City with a visit to the stunning archeological zone of Teotihuacan, famous for the enormous Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon.

Again, your guide will enhance your experience with expert explanations of the importance of the site and its place in the history of Mexico’s many pre-Columbian civilizations.

The tour includes a visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which houses a sacred cloak said to bare the image of the Virgin Mary.

Day 5: Departure from Mexico City

Leave Mexico City in style with a private transfer to the airport. However, if you’d like to extend your trip, speak to a Journey Mexico Travel Planner to organize an extension.

Our trips are fully customized, allowing us to build your itinerary for any time of the year.

Our custom-tailored journeys start from $1,000 USD per day for two travelers. Contact us today to discuss your travel desires and design a personalized proposal with exact pricing.

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Road Trip Mexico City: A Two-Day Itinerary Full Of Culture, Food, and Fun

This road trip from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City is chock full of fun and adventure, and this two-day itinerary is the best way to see it all.

Mexico City is undoubtedly the vibrant bustling heart of Mexico itself—chock-full of fun things to see and do, this cultural capital is bursting with historic attractions , amazing food, and a proud past reflected in everything from its architecture to its entertainment. However, there’s plenty to see just outside the city limits, too—especially for travelers who want to relax, recharge, and bask in some of Mexico’s most stunning and dynamic natural landscapes.

Though Mexico City has it all, it’s definitely worth it to take a road trip from the city to fully experience the region’s diverse and exciting landscape—just a short drive from the city center is enough to take visitors into a whole new world of outdoor adventures, cultural history, and delicious eats that makes Mexico such a special place to visit.

The following two-day itinerary takes visitors on a short adventure out of the hustle and bustle of Mexico City and offers everything from outdoor adventures to historic haunts—and everything in between.

RELATED: Myth Or Fact: Is Mexico City Sinking & Should You Visit ASAP?

Day One: The Great Outdoors

The first day of this two-day itinerary is a study in outdoor adventures—offering travelers some of the most wow-worthy sites in the southern border states. Hiking, history, and volcanoes(!) are some highlights of this trip that begins with a visit to the oldest national park in Mexico: Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park.

Distance from Mexico City: Less than two hours

Travel Tip: One of the volcanoes in the park, Popocatépetl, is an active volcano, so be sure to check on its activity before planning your trip

Things To Do In Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park

Crossing over the state lines of Puebla, Morales, and Estado de Mexico, Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park, often referred to as Izta-Popo Park, is spread over almost 100,000-acres and has a mythology all its own . As local legend has it, the park’s two snow-capped volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl represent two star-crossed lovers transformed into mountains, destined to spend eternity side by side.

A peaceful and relaxing natural retreat that’s a great day trip from Mexico City, there are a number of things to see and do at this breathtaking national park.

• Start the day at the Paso de Cortes Visitor Center , located between the two towering volcanoes at approximately 12,000-feet above sea level. This is a great place for some of the best volcano views, and where visitors can pay the necessary fees for hiking and camping in the park
• The park is home to a number of diverse ecosystems, perfect for both wildlife watching and soaking up the scenery which includes a mix of forests, grasslands, and rugged mountain elevations. Be on the lookout for species like foxes, lynxes, coyotes, and more, in addition to the teporingo (aka volcano rabbit) which is only found on the volcanoes’ slopes
• Take a hike or have an adventure on two wheels with a mountain biking excursion . There are many hiking trails that vary in skill level, from trails that begin at Paso de Cortes to expeditions to La Joya , which provides access to the volcano, including climbs to the summit of Iztaccíhuatl (guided tours are available, and highly recommended)

RELATED: Mexico City Is Better Viewed From The Air (In A Hot Air Balloon)

Where To Stay Near Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park

Camping is allowed in Izta-Popo, but facilities are extremely limited, so travelers not interested in roughing it will most likely want to stay at a nearby hotel such as the Hotel Campestre Eden , which is conveniently located within the park and has its own pyramid complete with a temazcal (traditional Mexican sweat lodge). There are also several other hotels in nearby Amecameca and Ayapango, too.

• Hotel Fontestana Av. Hidalgo #370, Amecameca, Mexico City
• Hotel San Carlos De La Constitución 10, Centro, 56900 Amecameca de Juárez, Mexico
• Hacienda San Andrés Former Hacienda de San Andrés, Retana s/n Ayapango, State of Mexico

Day Two: A Temple, A Palace, And Mexico City’s Highest Peak

Start the day with breakfast at your hotel, then hit the road for an unforgettable second day of adventure that is filled with historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and even more spectacular views (including Mexico City’s highest peak).

Tepoztlán: Birthplace of Quetzalcóatl

This historic small town is known as a Náhuatl cultural center and is home to a number of restaurants and fun things to do, including the pueblo mágico , where there is a bustling crafts market. Those that want to explore will want to visit the town’s most culturally significant site, the Pirámide de Tepozteco , an over 30-foot high pyramid built to honor the Aztec god of harvest and fertility. Here, there is a steep path that is worth the hike, if only for the panoramic valley views seen from the summit.

Where To Dine In Tepoztlán

There are a number of restaurants where visitors can grab a midday bite before heading to the next stop on the itinerary.

• El Ciruelo Zaragoza 17, Barrio La Santísima, Tepoztlán
• Cordelia Restaurant at Posada del Tepozteco Paraiso 3 Barrio de San Miguel, Tepoztlán
• La Luna Mextli Avenida Revolución 16 62520, Tepoztlán
• Restaurante Axitla Del Tepozteco, Tierra Blanca, 62520, Tepoztlán

RELATED: From Mexico City To Temple Ruins: A Complete Itinerary

A Palace, A Park, And An Adventure

En route to the final stop on this epic two-day road trip, stop at Cuernavaca to explore the Palacio de Cortés (The Palace of Cortés) —the medieval 16th-century fortress of one of Mexico’s most famous and dynamic figures, Hernán Cortés. Here, visitors can visit the palace’s museum, see a mural from Diego Rivera, and bask in the area’s impressive history .

Just a short hour drive from Cuernavaca is the trip’s final stop at the Parque Nacional Cumbres del Ajusco, home to several towering peaks including the Creuz del Marqués , towering almost 5,000-feet above Mexico City.

• Take a hike on the Cerro Ajusco Summit Trail, an almost six-mile loop trail that, at its summit, offers stunning views of both the forest below and of nearby Mexico City
• Have an outdoor adventure —mountain biking, ATVing, and climbing are just a few of the fun things to do here
• Grab a bite at the park’s restaurant, located near the trailhead. Be sure to try their fresh-made quesadillas and a mug of champurrado (a warm, corn-based drink)
• Climb Ajusco , an extinct volcano that’s one of the most climbed peaks in all of Mexico—and some of the best views around
• Splurge and spend the night at Ecocamp Ajusco Rotamundos before the short one-hour drive back to Mexico City

Mexico City has it all: historic haunts, cultural attractions, and a top-tier cuisine scene are just a few of the reasons to visit this amazing city. However, there’s so much more to see and do beyond the city limits—stunning natural landscapes, historic heritage, and delicious fare await the adventurous traveler looking to get out of the city for a weekend escape . The perfect complement to Mexico City’s bustling vibes, this two-day itinerary is an adventure all its own.

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7 of the best Maya ruins to visit in Mexico

Remnants of ancient civilisations still stand across Central America — and well-preserved temples and jungle-cloaked pyramids are open to visitors across southern Mexico.

Before the Spanish colonised Central America in the 16th century, the ancient Maya were one of the most sophisticated civilisations in the Western Hemisphere. They developed a complex calendar system through their knowledge of astrology and mathematics, used intricate hieroglyphics to record their history and built large, lavishly decorated cities, complete with pyramids, temples, and plazas.

At its height, the ancient Maya civilisation comprised 40 cities across Central America, spanning southern Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, El Salvador and Nicaragua. In the southern Mexican states of Yucatán, Quintana Roo and Chiapas, many of these settlements — the largest housed up to 50,000 people — still stand today, offering visitors a unique insight into the social, cultural and religious lives of the ancient Maya.

From carefully reconstructed sites like Chichen Itza to the wild, jungle-clad pyramids and ceremonial temples of Calakmul, these are the ancient Maya ruins not to miss in southern Mexico.

1. Chichen Itza

Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the beautifully preserved Chichen Itza in Yucatán is Mexico’s most famous Maya ruin. Despite the crowds, few are disappointed with El Castillo — a carefully restored pyramid that rises up 80ft and has 365 steps — or the city’s tlachtli , the largest Maya ball court in the Americas.

Occupied until the 16th century, Tulum was one of the last cities inhabited by the Maya and the only one built by the coast. The pyramids here aren’t as large as other Maya ruins in Mexico, but the setting, on 40ft-high cliffs above turquoise Caribbean waters south of Cancun, more than makes up for it.

Home to the tallest pyramid in the state of Quintana Roo, Cobá was once one of the most important Maya cities in Yucatán. Located around 30 miles west of Tulum ruins, the city was built in around 600 CE and it eventually grew to 50,000 inhabitants. Though much of Cobá has yet to be excavated, travellers can climb the 138ft-high Nohoch Mul — a pyramid that offers sweeping views over the Yucatán jungle. Cobá is also known for its sophisticated sacbe,   or ‘white road’2,   network —   limestone pathways that connect the city to neighbouring settlements.

4. Palenque

Deep in the jungles of northeastern Chiapas state in southern Mexico lies Palenque , a Late Classic Maya city known for its detailed hieroglyphic inscriptions and sculpted reliefs. These highly sophisticated designs have helped archaeologists understand more of the ancient Maya's history, mythology and calendar systems.

5. Calakmul

Cloaked by the second-largest expanse of tropical forests in the Americas, in Campeche’s Calakmul Biosphere Reserve near the border with Guatemala, Calakmul is one of Mexico’s wildest Maya ruins. It has the largest and tallest pyramid in Yucatán and more than 6,000 structures, many of them covered by jungle. The site is particularly beautiful at sunrise, when the surrounding jungle comes alive with birdsong, howler monkeys and, if you’re lucky, the roar of a jaguar.

6. Ek Balam

Around 25 miles north of the Yucatán city of Valladolid is Ek Balam , which means ‘black jaguar’ or ‘jaguar star’ in the Yucatec Maya language. The city reached its height in the eight century, when more than 20,000 people lived here. Its largest pyramid is 160 metres long and 105ft high, and contains the tomb of Ukit Kan Le´t Tok, the king of Ek Balam between 770 CE and around 797 CE. Archaeologists found the ruler buried with more than 7,000 pieces of jade, bone, ceramic, shell and precious metal, and the outside walls decorated with stone jaguars, winged creatures and human skulls.

A one-hour drive from the Yucatán capital of Merida is this seventh-century Maya city, once large enough to house 25,000 inhabitants. The Uxmal ruins are part of the Ruta Puuc, a 25-mile road network that connects Uxmal with the archaeological sites of Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, Labná, Oxkintok, Grutas de Calcehtok and Grutas de Loltún.

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Related topics.

• HISTORIC SITES
• ADVENTURE TRAVEL
• PREHISTORIC CULTURES
• ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

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