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The floating gardens of Xochimilco

Enjoy boat tours of the canals with friends and try traditional Mexican snacks in Xochimilco, one of the most iconic places in Mexico City

One of the most classic places to visit in Mexico City is Xochimilco. Since 1930, they’ve been offering tourist trips in trajineras through more than 184 kilometers of waters that integrate the zone’s canals and chinampas .  

The chinampas represent a cultivation method that has been used since pre-Hispanic times in the Valley of Mexico. The area was, after all, a lake, and the best way to farm was to use artificial islands in the lake itself. Today, they are an example of sustainability and productivity: they provide five annual harvests of high-quality vegetables. Yolcan, a project that focuses on fair trade and rehabilitation of the chinampas , offers a food club that delivers fresh produce from farms in Xochimilco to homes and businesses across the city. 

Enter the canals of Xochimilco and enjoy its trajinera tours, along with the theater programs during the Day of the Dead season and discover the richness of its ecological reserve. And don’t forget to take advantage of a snack or two during your tour.

The best places to visit in Xochimilco

In operation since June 5, 1993, this is the zone’s most ecological space as its tours pass through the Xochimilco ecological reserve, a place where they still preserve chinampa traditions. It’s also the headquarters of La Llorona, a piece of musical theater, with lights and dance that has been hosted among these canals – illuminated by torches - every October and November for the past 20 years.

Isla de las Muñecas

Your tour through the wetlands of Xochimilco will be altered by an island where doll parts hang from trees. The story goes that an old inhabitant of the area, Julián Santana Barrera, collected dolls that were taken out of the trash, and hung them around the property in order to protect himself from the spirit of a little girl. Julián later drowned in the canals, which adds to the site’s already enigmatic nature.

Belem de las Flores

From here, you’ll see tours leaving for the most popular canals, including the chinampa canals and night tours. On Fridays and Saturdays, they operate practically all night, and it’s worth asking about the next event: movie projections, theater works or other spectacles are common place.

Fernando Celada

Opened in 1968, motivated by the Olympic Games, and carrying the name of the poet, dramatist and journalist: Fernando Celada, a famous local son. If you’re lucky, you’ll see some of the native bird life.

Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas

This is where you’ll find the final remnants of the México-Tenochtitlan lake. This shoving off point into the canals is one of the most popular and here you’ll find an artisan’s market and a food market. The rent of a trajinera reaches 500 pesos per hour. It doesn’t matter how many people are in your group, nor the size of the boat. Nor can they force you into a minimum rental period. Don’t be fooled, and don’t miss out on your chance to take part in the lovely custom of bartering.

Check out more attractions in Mexico City

The best attractions in Mexico City

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We recommend the places that house the archaeological legacy of pre-Hispanic cultures, monuments and the city’s biggest lung, just past the metropolis’ first skyscraper.

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The Partying Traveler

Survival of the littest.

The Complete Guide to Visiting Xochimilco | Mexico City

A trip to Xochimilco can go one of two ways. Xochimilco can be a boring tourist trap where you sit on a boat in the hot sun for a few hours. On the other hand, it can be an amazing day spent with friends boozing and cruising along an ancient Aztec waterway. I’ve had both experiences at Xochimilco. When you get it right, Xochimilco is an absolutely roaring good time. It’s one of my favorite ways to spend a day in Mexico City. Day drinking, floating lazily on the river, and surrounded by vibrant music, good vibes, and people having fun. What more do you need?!

This post contains affiliate links. That means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links.

Things To Know Before Going to Xochimilco

There are a few essentials you need to have before heading to Xochimilco. The most important is a squad. Each boat can fit between 12 to 15 people. You’ll want to have as close to that number as possible. When you’re on a boat for several hours, a variety of human energy is absolutely necessary so things stay lively and spiced up. Next up, booze and cash. It’s a lot more fun if people are pitching in for mariachi bands and shots of tequila along the way. Xochimilco is cash only. Make sure to have plenty on hand.

Xochimilco is also one of the few things that I’d recommend going when it’s most touristy. The weekends are prime time for a day out on the river. Tourist crowds can be annoying, but the energy at Xochimilco is electric and palpable on the weekends. The more people there are, the better.

Sunscreen, a hat, and lots of water are also essential in case you get a particularly hot day. There’s always shade on the boat, but basking in that sizzling Mexican sun hits different when you’re a little buzzed.

There’s not much else that you need to know before going. The routes are basically pre-set, so you can do a circuit of around two hours all the way up to around six hours if you want to make it to the Island of the Dolls. There’s not much customization otherwise. The boat captains know what they’re doing, so just trust them and go along for the ride.

Related: The Ultimate Mexico City Bucket List

How To Get To Xochimilco

The easiest way to get to Xochimilco from downtown Mexico City is by Uber. If you’ve squadded up like I’ve suggested, then the cost shouldn’t be too bad. On average, it cost about $200 pesos (about $10 USD) for the ride from downtown Mexico City. Split four ways, that’s $2.50 USD each. Another option is to book a tour to Xochimilco. If you don’t have your own group, it might be worth booking a tour. You might actually end up saving money as opposed to booking all your own transportation and a boat for yourself. If you plan on going solo, then going with a tour guarantees you’ll already have people to share the fun with. Here are a few Xochimilco tour options from GetYourGuide.

Oh, and before you take to the canals, make sure to have good travel insurance handy while you’re off adventuring across the world. I use  SafetyWing  to keep me covered throughout my travels for as low as $40 a month.

How Much Does A Trip to Xochimilco Cost?

The standard rate for renting a boat and hiring captain in Xochimilco is 500 pesos per hour, or about $25 USD. Luckily, that’s for the entire boat. The more people that you get on board, the lower the costs go per person. The first time I went to Xochimilco, there were just four of us. We only booked the boat for two hours because we didn’t want to spend a lot of money, and it worked out to 250 pesos ($12.50 USD) per person, not including the tip to the driver at the end. The second time I went, I wrangled together a group of 10 people, and then picked up two more local Mexicans once we arrived to the port.

We reserved the boat for five hours, splitting the 2500 peso cost 12 ways. For five hours on the boat, it worked out to be cheaper than my first visit to Xochimilco. This is why having a squad is crucial. It makes it a lot more fun and also a lot cheaper. You’ll have more money to go towards important things like beer and tequila.

You can bring your own booze on the boat to further save money. However, if you don’t, never fear. There are dozens of smaller boats floating through the canals with beer, tequila, cocktails, food, and more. Of course, it’ll be a little pricier than if you were to buy it at an Oxxo, but it’s still not too expensive.

The only other thing you could possibly spend money on at Xochimilco is mariachis. On average, a song will cost you 150 Mexican pesos. That’s about 10-20 pesos per person on your boat if you split the costs. Asking for multiple songs might also bring down the cost per song. This is Mexico. Bargaining is always possible. Bring cash because obviously none of the boat vendors or mariachis take card.

How To Have A Good F’in Time

Now that you’ve got a squad, a boat, a captain, and lots of booze, you are ready for an excellent day at Xochimilco. Bring the energy and be open to whatever surprises await along the canals of Xochimilco. Keep those feet dancin’ and the Coronas flowing. You have to be actively trying to be boring if you’re not having a good time at Xochimilco. Disfruta la vida weyyy!

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If this post helped you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by  buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

Also, be sure to check out my  complete itinerary for backpacking in Mexico  with 77 jam-packed pages covering over 33 different destinations in this amazing country!

My Complete Mexico Backpacking Itinerary

By popular demand… Here is the complete itinerary for one of my favorite countries in the world, Mexico. In this 77-page guidebook, I cover 30 of my favorite Mexican destinations, including how to get to each city, where to stay, and the best things to do in each city. I also include tidbits of useful information like things to know before going to Mexico, as well as my favorite party destina…

Where To Stay in Mexico City

Mexico City has a ton of amazing hostels to choose from, but these are a few of my favorites.

• Hostel Suites DF
• Massiosare El Hostel
• Viajero CDMX
• Hostal Mundo Joven Cathedral

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Do you remember which boat you rented that let you pay by the hour? All the tours I’m seeing online are for at least 4-5 hours. Thanks!

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How to Visit Xochimilco (Mexico City): The Ultimate Guide

• Xochimilco (Mexico City): Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Mexico may evoke images of bright colors, mariachis and cacti in your mind.

Is that a stereotype? Not exactly!

These are all elements of the Mexican culture that you can find in Xochimilco , a must-see destination in Mexico City !

In this post, I will share with you My Complete Guide to Visiting Xochimilco with everything you need to know to plan your trajinera ride along the canals, choosing the best dock depending on the experience you want, whether it’s partying with the mariachis or exploring nature.

I will also give you my tips and practical information to discover the other attractions of Xochimilco, which are much less crowded.

So, are you ready to see what Xochimilco has to offer?

Book your boat ride in Xochimilco

What to see in the canals, which dock to choose, how much do tours in xochimilco cost, frequently asked questions about trajineras, 2. discovering the heart of xochimilco, 3. eating at the xochimilco market, 4. drinking a good pulque, 5. visit the flower market, 6. horseback riding, how far is xochimilco from mexico city, take a tour to xochimilco, go to xochimilco on your own, when to go to xochimilco, how much time is necessary to visit xochimilco, where to stay in mexico city, want to rent a car in mexico, book your plane ticket at the best price, tourist map of xochimilco, xochimilco from the sky, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you, 1. take a trajinera ride.

A trajinera ride in Xochimilco is a must-do activity in Mexico City.

Xochimilco is famous for its chinampas , a large network of islands and canals that were built in pre-Hispanic times, and are recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO .

Back then, the valley of Mexico was filled with five big lakes and this clever system allowed them to grow corn and other crops. They developed a sustainable farming method that still produces five harvests a year!

Over the centuries, the lake of Xochimilco shrank to a few canals and today you can explore the floating gardens of Xochimilco by trajinera, a colorful wooden boat. That’s why it’s called the Venice of Mexico.

During the ride, you will encounter other boats that will offer you a variety of food, drinks, crafts, flowers and traditional Mexican music.

The mariachis from Xochimilco are the most famous, but you can also listen to norteño and marimba groups.

To make the most of your visit in Xochimilco, here are 3 different tours that you can chose from. To book it just click on the name of the tour you are most interested in!

The main thing to do in Xochimilco is to cruise through the canals in a trajinera, but there are also other places and activities to explore.

Actually, there are two different areas: the tourist canals and the natural reserve .

So what you will see will depend on the tour you choose, and also on the time and budget you have :

• The agricultural greenhouses
• Lake Xochimilco or lakes Xaltocán, Caltongo, del Toro.
• The Island of the Dolls : this is one of Xochimilco’s most popular and mysterious attractions, located in the Teshuilo Lagoon. The island is filled with dolls that were collected and hung by its former owner, Julian Santana Barrera. It is a place unlike any other, and some might find it creepy.
• Ajolotario : it is a conservation area for the axolotl , a salamander species that is endemic to Xochimilco , that has the amazing ability to regenerate its injured limbs. It is endangered and has become an symbol of Mexico (you can even see it on 50 peso bills).
• The interactive Chinampa : this is an island in the Xochiquetzalli community, where you can learn about the traditional planting and farming methods of the locals
• The National Museum of Axolotl : it is a museum located in a chinampa where a biologist explains the importance of the axolotl, and there are also snakes, tarantulas, frogs, etc.
• Bird watching : the protected area of Xochimilco is home to many endemic and migratory species from Canada and the United States. There are specialized tours that leave early in the morning because it is the best time to see them.

Xochimilco has ten different docks to choose from, depending on what kind of experience you are looking for. You can either explore the tourist canals or the natural reserve.

1-The tourist canals

This is where you can enjoy a classic Xochimilco tour with mariachis and other musical groups, and join the festive atmosphere.

The tourist docks are : Nuevo Nativitas, Las Flores, Zacapa, Caltongo, Salitre, San Cristobal, Belem, and Belem de las Flores.

• Nuevo Nativitas is the largest dock, with a craft market, a big parking lot, and several restaurants nearby.
• Salitre, San Cristobal, Belem and Belem de las Flores are close to downtown Xochimilco and easy to access.
• If you are into architecture, you can visit Los Manantiales restaurant on the Zacapa dock. It is a building shaped like a lotus flower, designed in 1957 by the famous architect Felix Candela

2-The natural reserve

This is where you can discover the Xochimilco ecological park , a 200-hectare reserve, where you can see different kinds of birds. You can also learn about the traditional farming methods that are still practiced in the chinampas.

These tours are much quieter and less crowded, and they are ideal for ecotourism in Xochimilco.

The docks are: Cuemanco, Fernando Celada and Puente de Urrutia.

Cuemanco is the main dock to access the Xochimilco reserve, but it is very calm because there are not many boats. There is no music or food here, to preserve the environment.

Cuemanco is also famous for its flower, cactus and succulent market, one of the biggest plant markets in Mexico City.

So, what is the best dock in Xochimilco?

It depends on what kind of tour you prefer.

If you want to experience the classic Xochimilco ride with music and party, you can go to Nativitas or Las Flores. If you want a more peaceful and natural ride, you can choose Cuemanco.

It is very important to understand that the price varies a lot depending on the tour you choose .

These are the prices for Xochimilco (keep in mind that they are approximate and may change):

Shared Trajinera (1h) – the cheapest option

There are shared boats (trajinera colectiva) that go back and forth between the Nativitas and Salitre docks.

The price of the shared trajinera is then 45 pesos (30min one way) or 90 pesos per person (1h round trip). If you are 2 or 3 people, this can be a good option to visit Xochimilco on a budget .

The traditional tour (1h, 2h, 3h)

This is the classic boat tour (with room for 18 people) through the canals of Xochimilco .

You can find boats that offer food and music, but you can also bring your own snacks and drinks (and save some money 🙃).

The 1 hour tour is round trip along the same route, so you don’t get to see much in 30 minutes. That’s why I suggest you take a 2 or 3 hour tour , which lets you explore the canals better, and have a great time with your family or friends!

Ecological route (4 to 5h30 hours)

The tour goes through the ecological zone of Xochimilco , which is much more serene. You can observe the many birds, visit the greenhouses, lakes (depending on where you start) and see some attractions: Ajolotario, Interactive Chinampa, the Axolotl Museum or the Island of the Dolls.

You have to pay approximately 1800 pesos per boat for 4h30, or 2000 pesos for 5h, 2200 pesos for 5h30.

Other prices to keep in mind

Although these stops are included in your tour, the entrance fee must be paid separately:

• Ajolotario (adults 100 pesos, minors 50 pesos)
• Interactive Chinampa (50 pesos per person)
• Island of the Dolls (50 pesos per person)
• Axolotl Museum (50 pesos per person)

You can also customize your trajinera by requesting it in advance: 500 pesos for the name painted on the front or 2000 pesos with flowers.

Can I bring my own food?

Yes, you can bring any food you want . You can also buy it at the dock, or from one of the many vendors who come with their boats. Some packages include food as well.

Can I bring my own drinks?

Yes, you can bring any drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) without any extra cost. You can also buy beers, michelada, pulque, etc. at the dock or during the tour.

Are there restrooms?

Yes, there are some at the docks for about 5 pesos, and also on the tour (ask the guy who drives the trajinera, he knows 😉)

How much do mariachis cost in Xochimilco?

A mariachi song costs 150 pesos, but they often offer packages like 4 songs for 520 pesos. Marimba is cheaper, usually 70 pesos per song or 4 songs for 200 pesos.

What is the schedule in Xochimilco?

The trajineras are usually available from 7 am to 7 pm. You can also take a night tour between 7 pm and midnight, but you need to book it ahead of time.

Xochimilco is more than just the canals, though. It also has a charming local life that you shouldn’t miss.

In the main square of Xochimilco , you can see the Cathedral and Ex-Convent of San Bernardino de Siena (16th century). It is a stunning building and I have heard that its altarpiece is amazing but… it was closed when I visited because of the damage from the 2017 earthquake.

By the way, if you also like churches (for their architecture), there are several beautiful ones, tucked away in the streets of Xochimilco.

For example, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Rosary (18th century) which I find interesting with its tiles. It is right across from the Xochimilco market.

The best way to experience local life in Mexico is to visit the market. It is a colorful and lively place filled with vendors selling fruits, vegetables, meat, herbs and piñatas.

It is the perfect place to discover the variety of local products, and also to enjoy delicious and affordable food in Xochimilco.

I had a tlacoyo , a typical Mexican dish. It is a thick corn tortilla, stuffed with beans and topped with nopales, cheese, onion and spicy sauce – a very satisfying snack for only 20 pesos!

A pulqueria is the place where they sell pulque , a fermented Mexican drink (with about 6 to 8 % alcohol).

I love the pulquerias in Mexico City for their unique atmosphere, where you can meet all kinds of people, from colleagues to families to friends.

For me, there is no better place to discover the soul of a neighborhood and yet, tourists rarely visit pulquerias (except maybe in Roma Norte) What a shame!

So of course, I had to go to the Pulqueria el Templo de Diana which is the most famous in Xochimilco. It is a true institution that has been around for 4 generations.

Personally I don’t like the natural pulque , as it is a bit sour and thick, but luckily the Templo de Diana has an amazing list of cured pulques with different flavors.

By the way, I have never seen a pulqueria with so many flavors of cured pulque: chocolate, lemon cake, grape, beet, cherry, pistachio, almond, walnut, guava, apple, chia, mango, coconut, oreo, you name it.

A small glass costs between 50-70 pesos and a large one 60-90 pesos, depending on the flavor. I suggest starting with the small glass as it is quite big.

We ordered two small glasses, one of marzipan and another one of peanut.

• Templo de Diana: Av 5 de Mayo 65, Santa Crucita, Xochimilco (1 block from the plaza and market)

Xochimilco is famous for its flowers and plants.

There are four markets in Xochimilco: Madre Selva, Mercado Acuexcomatl, Palacio de la Flor and Cuemanco.

They say the most interesting ones are Cuemanco and Madre Selva. I chose the latter, located at the entrance of the Bosque de Nativitas, because Xochimilco is very big and I wanted to make sure I could walk back to the center.

Here you can find all kinds of flowers, plants, succulents and cacti in amazing shapes that I had never seen before. Mexico is truly the land of cacti!

The Madre Selva Market is at the entrance of the Bosque Nativitas , a park of more than 17 hectares that attracts families on weekends.

Here you can enjoy horseback riding, or ponies for the little ones.

• The official rate is 80 pesos for 30 minutes or 160 pesos for 1 hour.

Xochimilco is located in the south of Mexico City, about 12 miles (20 km) away from downtown and other tourist areas.

The travel time to get there can vary a lot depending on your mode of transportation and the traffic conditions.

You can choose to go by car or public transportation, but be prepared for some delays in the busy capital!

How to get to Xochimilco?

Here I explain how to get to Xochimilco on your own or with a tour:

Avoid traffic and hassle by booking a tour that picks you up from your hotel , takes you to the boat ride in Xochimilco, and visits the Frida Kahlo museum.

• Boat ride in Xochimilco + Frida Kahlo Museum (shared)
• Boat ride in Xochimilco + Frida Kahlo Museum   (private tour)

By public transport – the cheapest way to get there

• Take the metro to Tasqueña , the last station of the blue line 2 (1h30 from downtown, ticket 5 pesos).
• Then take the light train to Xochimilco station (40 min, ticket 3 pesos but you need to have the 20 pesos electronic card which includes 1 ticket)
• It is about 25 min walk to the Nativitas pier or 1 hour to Cuemanco.

You can book this boat ride that includes illimited alcohol, mariachi music and lunch on a floatting island!

Taking an Uber – faster and more comfortable

These are estimated fares (one way), as they depend on the traffic: from Colonia Roma or Condesa 180-230 pesos, from Coyoacán 120-150 pesos, from downtown 420-450 pesos.

It depends on what kind of atmosphere you prefer : if you want a peaceful and relaxing ride , go during the week, from Monday to Thursday.

If you want to party in Xochimilco , with all the music and fun, you have to go on the weekend.

You can visit Xochimilco any time of the year, but keep in mind that during the rainy season in Mexico City, it usually rains in the afternoon (but rarely before 3 pm).

So if you go between June and September (July and August are the wettest months), I suggest going for a ride in the morning or early afternoon.

In any case, it is always better to go in the morning to avoid traffic in the canals when there are too many trajineras.

There are also several festivals in Xochimilco :

• Candlemas Day (February 2): This is the most important religious holiday in Xochimilco. Here they worship the “Niñopa” , a sculpture of the baby Jesus that dates back to the 16th century and has about 5,000 outfits. On February 2, a big celebration is held in his honor with music, fireworks, dances and food.
• Friday of Sorrows : From 9 am in Nativitas there is a big parade of trajineras, a very colorful spectacle! When they announce the winning boat -the most beautiful and flowery- the participants of the contest La Flor Más Bella (The Most Beautiful Flower) show up in their traditional costumes.
• Festival Viva Mexico in Xochimilco (September 6th-8th): from 12 pm to 8 pm, it is a great craft and food fair.
• La Llorona (early October to late November): this is a nightly play based on the legend of “La Llorona” that is performed on the island of Laguna Tilac. It combines modern and pre-Hispanic instruments, Nahuatl songs and theater. You can take a trajinera from the Cuemanco dock to get there. The show starts at 8 pm, but you should get there an hour earlier. Get your tickets here

It depends on what you book. The trajinera ride can take half a day (2h, 3h, 4h) or more if you take the ecotourism tour (5 hours).

I recommend that you visit Coyoacán in the afternoon .

If you want to eat something simple and cheap, eat in Xochimilco , otherwise go to Coyoacan where you can find several nice restaurants. They are two very different neighborhoods.

One of the most typical dishes in Xochimilco is tlapique . It is a mixture of fish, tomato, onion, nopal and epazote (a Mexican aromatic herb), which is slowly cooked in a corn husk. I found it at the Belen dock, but it is everywhere.

• Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral (historic center): one of the best hostels in Mexico City . Clean dorms and rooms, amazing rooftop terrace with bar , great atmosphere and an exceptional view over the cathedral and the Zocalo, starting at 15$usd for a dorm and 32 $usd for a private room!
• Hotel Villa Condesa (Condesa): if you are looking for a romantic hotel in Mexico City , this is a little oasis in the heart of La Condesa. It is an elegant house with small green terraces and tastefully decorated rooms. Rooms are spacious, breakfast is very good and the service is particularly attentive. Around  160$usd per night!
• Casa Goliana (Roma Norte): high-end hotel with the best value for money in its category, located in an early 20th century house, typical of the Roma area. Rooftop terrace, comfortable rooms, very attentive staff, and good breakfasts. Around  190$usd per night
• Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City (Juarez): this 5 star hotel is one of the best hotels in Mexico City , ideal for a business trip or a romantic stay . Located on Paseo de la Reforma between Colonia Juarez and Roma Norte. A large indoor garden, gym, swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar, Around 640$usd per night!

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Mexico City and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Rentalcars.com, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Rentalcars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

do you want to go to Mexico? To get the best rate for your airline tickets , you can use our comparator, in collaboration with Skyscanner: It is the guarantee to get the best price for your international flight and flights within Mexico .

Here is the map with all the best attractions of Xochimilco that I mentioned in my guide:

And for you to see the extent of Xochimilco’s canals, here is a video taken with a drone!

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
• Mexico City: The 31 Best things to Discover
• 1 Day in Mexico City – How to spend  just 24h in the Mexican capital
• 2 Days in Mexico City  – The perfect itinerary for 48h!
• 3 Days in Mexico City – The Best Itinerary + Where to Stay
• 4 Days in Mexico City – Your Four-Day Must-See Guide
• Where to stay in Mexico City? – Best areas and hotels for all budgets!
• Mexico City on a Budget: Guide + All my Best Tips to Save Money
• The Definitive Guide to 40 Best Free Things to Do in Mexico City
• Teotihuacan (Mexico City) : The Definitive Guide + Tips
• Coyoacán (Mexico City) : the Best Things to Do in Frida Kahlo’s Neighborhood
• 40+ Wifi Cafes in Mexico City that Every Digital Nomad Should Know About
• Muralism in Mexico City : The Essential Guide to the Best Murals
• Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico   – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla , Oaxaca , Chiapas, Campeche , Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
• Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

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• All our Guides about Mexico

Xochimilco Mexico City: How to Get There and What to Do

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Going to Xochimilco Mexico City is one of the trips that you just have to make when you’re in this part of the world.

When people talk about visiting Xochimilco, what they’re usually referring to is the network of canals known as The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco rather than the surrounding area.

The photogenic, brightly coloured gondolas, or Xochimilco Trajineras, that cruise up and down the waterways are what have made it so popular among both foreign and Mexican tourists alike.

Granted, Xochimilco has got a very mixed reputation, with some people absolutely loving it and others despising it with a passion.

And I’ve seen it variously described as the Mexican Venice, a cultural booze cruise, and even a youth club on water.

But here’s the thing – it’s impossible to know which camp you’ll fall into unless you go and experience it for yourself.

I can tell you that from personal experience, because I didn’t have very high expectations of our trip here.

But in the end we had a fantastic day out and discovered there’s a lot more to Xochimilco Mexico City than the canals.

Xochimilco Mexico City

This post will run through everything you need to know about planning a trip here.

We’ll cover how to get to Xochimilco by public transport. We’ll also go over some of the history of the Xochimilco canals, and what to expect on the Xochimilco boats plus other essential Xochimilco tips.

We’re also going to recommend the best Xochimilco tour to book – after all, Xochimilco is really far away from the centre of Mexico City.

So if you’re not confident using the public transport system or break out in a sweat at the idea of bartering (more on that below), a Xochimilco tour will be the best option.

How to Get to Xochimilco Mexico City

It’s relatively easy to get to Xochimilco Mexico City by your own on public transport.

And there’s much more to do here than just ride on the famous Xochimilco trajineras.

You can easily spend a whole day here, so if you’ve got the time to spare and are comfortable navigating Mexico City’s public transport then this is a great option.

How to get to Xochimilco by public transport obviously depends on where you’re starting from. But your first point of call is to get yourself to your local metro station.

If you’ve not used the metro system in Mexico City then don’t worry, it’s just the same as the metro anywhere in the world.

Yes it gets crowded at times, but it’s super convenient and extremely cheap at only $5 MXN per journey.

We got told various bad stories about pickpocketing, but in truth you should be aware of this no matter which city’s metro you’re using.

Use your common sense, watch your things and you’ll be fine.

Start by navigating your way to Tasqueña station which is at the very end of the Blue Line 2.

From Tasqueña there is a dedicated train called the Tren Ligero which starts in Tasqueña and finishes in Xochimilco.

It’s basically an overground metro line which goes all the way there.

If you don’t have one of the rechargeable cards then you’ll need to get one to use the Tren Ligero.

You can pick one up at any station, including Tasqueña. You’ll then be able use it on all the main forms of public transport in Mexico City

When you arrive, you’re in the heart of Xochimilco and can easily walk to all of the points of interest.

When you leave the station you’ll be confronted by lots of guys in official looking lanyards.

They’ll be pointing you in the direction of the embarcaderos or ports where the trajineras launch from.

They actually work for the different companies that run the trajineras so will try and get you to go to their particular launch point.

Don’t feel bullied or harassed into going with them, remember it’s always your choice where you spend your money.

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The Best Xochimilco Tour

If the idea of heading to Xochimilco Mexico City by yourself doesn’t appeal for whatever reason, don’t worry.

There are some great Xochimilco tours that allow you to enjoy the magical waterways with none of the stress.

No navigating the Mexico City metro and no haggling for a better price on your boat.

Most of the Xochimilco tours combine a boat ride with visits to other attractions on the way.

There are two Xochimilco tours that we would highly recommend depending on what your interests are.

The first Xochimilco tour to consider is this awesome 5 hour trip that includes a visit to the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).

The campus is a UNESCO Heritage site, thanks in part to being decorated with murals by famous Mexican artists such as Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros.

The largest and most important university in Latin America, UNAM is pretty special in its own right.

Not only is it interesting to look at, but it boasts a fascinating history featuring esteemed academics, innovation and the seeds of revolution.

The other Xochimilco tour we’d recommend is this one , which in addition to Xochimilco and UNAM, also takes in a stop in Coyoacan.

We’d suggest opting for this one if you haven’t already visited Coyoacan and it isn’t already in your plans.

Coyoacan is one of our favourite parts of CDMX so we don’t think it should be missed. It’s the birthplace of Frida Kahlo, and where the incredible museum dedicated to her is.

But more than that, it’s like a little individual town in its own right and totally different from the rest of Mexico City.

Uber to Xochimilco Mexico City

If you’re not interested in going by public transport or doing a Xochimilco tour, you have a third option to get there.

Getting an Uber to Xochimilco is easy and hassle free, just bear in mind that depending on the time of day, traffic in Mexico City can be bonkers.

Because of this, it may not be the quickest way to get there and back. And it certainly won’t be the cheapest.

An cost of an Uber to Xochimilco from the centre of Mexico City starts at around $185 MXN ($9.70USD, £7.45GBP).

That’s one way and can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic and demand.

The History of the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco

Incredibly, the whole of Mexico City is built on a vast lake, and Xochimilco is no exception.

However, the actual construction of the famous floating gardens of Xochimilco was slightly different.

The so called gardens are actually named chinampas, and far from floating. In fact they’re actually islands that remain permanently in situ.

They were constructed by the local population, way back in pre-hispanic times. They would pack mud and silt from the bottom of the lake high enough until it broke the surface.

They’re held together with the roots of trees, so though they’re man made, they’re created entirely from natural resources.

Thanks to the nutrient rich soil in the lakes and the year round abundance of water, these islands are ideal for farming.

The Aztecs used to cultivate huge amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables on the chinampas. And in part you can see that they’re still used for growing things and are covered in lush greenery.

Nowadays though, they’re largely maintained for their touristic value rather than for farming.

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A Trip on the Xochimilco Boats or Trajineras

The first thing to know about a ride on the Xochimilco boats (or trajineras as they’re known locally) is that they’re not especially cheap.

In fact, if your negotiation and haggling skills aren’t up to scratch then they can work out to be pretty damned expensive.

There’s no fixed price as such (though there is a maximum hourly rate) so you have to barter for a good price depending on what you want.

You hire Xochimilco boats by the hour, and generally people tend to go for two hours at a minimum.

The hourly maximum rate is set by the local government body, this currently stands at $500 mexican pesos per hour.

This price is for the boat, not per person so obviously the more people you have the cheaper it becomes for each of you.

Be prepared for some extortionate quotes though, as the operators like to try their luck whenever possible.

We made a fatal error in our negotiations, as the guy we were speaking to caught us off guard with an offer of $1,900 MXN for a two hour ride.

Unfortunately my first counter was to tell him how ridiculous that was because we knew that the maximum rate was $450 MXN per hour.

It didn’t leave us very much wiggle room, so when he reduced his rate to $900 it was pretty much impossible to barter down any more.

To avoid making the same mistake I’d suggest going in with a low ball offer and working from there.

If you’re not happy with the price then there are lots of operators so don’t be afraid to move on and try another one.

We were not really in the mood to trawl up and down for a cheaper price, so aware that we weren’t getting totally ripped off just went for this.

If you’re not confident negotiating in Spanish, don’t worry too much as most of the salespeople speak fluent English.

Once you’re on the boat, all you need to do is kick back, relax and enjoy the carnival as you get ferried around the busy waterways.

The canals are crowded with hundreds of boats going up and down, particularly on the weekends, everyone enjoying a few drinks, a bite to eat and the music.

Many of the trajineras have full mariachi bands on, there are also xylophone players, singers and brass bands playing everything from Mexican classics to modern chart music.

For a small fee they will either attach their boat to yours, or even jump on for a few minutes and play a selection of tunes.

It’s a bit like a floating market in parts, as trajineras laden with all kinds of traditional Mexican arts and crafts work their way along the waterways.

There are also plenty of food stalls and drinks sellers, so there’s no need to worry if you’ve not brought anything on with you.

You can get everything from beer and pulque to water and fruit juices, BBQ corn and tacos to freshly cooked steaks, all right there on the water.

Xochimilco Hours

The Xochimilco hours of operation for the trajineras start at 9am. You can get a boat road anytie from them and they carry on all day, winding up at 6pm.

If you’re wondering how many hours to allocate for a trip to Xochimilco, that depends on what you plan on doing.

Boat rides can last anywhere from an hour to all day if that’s what you want!

At a minimum allow 3-4 hours to visit Xochimilco, more if you’re planning on seeing the town as well.

Bear in mind that Xochimilco is busiest on weekdays and extremely chocka during holidays.

If you want a more peaceful Xochimilco boat trip, head down during the week.

However, for many people, the lively atmosphere you’ll encounter on the weekend is the best part.

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What Else to do in Xochimilco and top Xochimilco Tips

While a boat ride is obviously the main reason people come here, there are plenty of other things to do in Xochimilco Mexico City.

Here’s our selections of what not to miss on your visit plus our top Xochimilco tips for an amazing visit.

Xochimilco Market

Before you get on your Xochimilco trajinera, it’s a good idea to pick up some food and drinks for the excursion.

The cheapest and most interesting place to do this is at the market. Visiting Xochimilco Market is a great experience in itself.

The colorful, bustling, traditional Mexican market is principally housed in a vast colonial style building, but spills out freely onto the surrounding streets.

The sights and smells are enough to get you excited, and there are different sections for anything you might want.

There’s a large fresh produce area where the fruit and vegetables are beautifully laid out in immaculate, symmetrical piles.

There’s a whole aisle of taco makers where you can buy them by the kilo, freshly made and still warm for about $12 MXN.

Wandering around you’ll see everything from pet stores selling goldfish and hamsters, to little outlets selling chapulines (fried grasshoppers) and dried fruit and nuts.

You can also get all sorts of prepared foods like barbacoa (BBQ goat), nopales (cactus), mole (meat in a savoury chocolate sauce) and various other different Mexican dishes.

Check Out a Traditional Pulqueria

Just a couple of blocks away from the market on the corner of Avenue 5 de Mayo and Francisco I. Madero, you’ll find the truly incredible the Pulqueria el Templo de Diana .

If you have no idea what a pulqueria is, that’s because they’re a dying form of bar that specialises in a very traditional Mexican, alcoholic drink made by fermenting the sap of the agave plant.

Pulque is a hard drink to describe both in its taste and its effects. So I’m going to put in a quick disclaimer here that it’s not everybody’s bag and you may well hate the stuff!

It’s quite a thick, gloopy, white substance, so just the texture alone is off putting to some people.

It’s also extremely sour in a way that will make your face scrunch up the first time you try it.

Having said that, I personally really enjoy pulque as I’m not a big fan of sweet drinks, so it suits my taste buds perfectly.

But worry not, if you don’t like the natural variety, it also comes in an endless number of surprising and whacky flavours.

At Templo de Diana they range from fruity tastes like mango, tamarind and strawberry right through to a strange concoction called an Ostión.

The Ostión contains tomato juice, chile sauce and a healthy portion of oysters and prawns thrown in for good measure. It’s served with a side of crackers.

Clearly we had to try one, and though it sounds a bit bonkers, it was actually really tasty.

Drink in Xochimilco’s Fascinating Culture

There are a number of historic churches in Xochimilco that are worth taking a look at and are walking distance from the city centre. 

San Bernardino de Siena is probably the most famous but there are a few dotted around, each with their own unique appearance and backstory.

Xochimilco is full of life and an exciting place to just wander around the backstreets between the market and the embarcaderos where the trajineras leave from.

There are lots of street food stalls, open fronted shops selling everything from trinkets to trainers, and we even saw a family riding through the streets on horseback.

Though the trajineras are undoubtedly the main attraction here, Xochimilco Mexico City is a really great place to spend a day.

You’ll get a totally different impression from many of the other main areas of Mexico City and get to enjoy some totally unique experiences at the same time.

At the very least, go so you can make your own mind up as to whether it’s a great cultural experience or a horrific, tacky tourist attraction.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

While Xochimilco is overwhelmingly safe, it’s absolutely essential that you have a good quality travel insurance in place for your trip to Mexico.

Accidents and unexpected incidents can easily occur and it’s far better to be covered than take the risk.

Our go travel insurance provider is World Nomads. They have a no bullshit approach to travel insurance policies & are perfect for adventurous travellers like us. Get a free, quick quote here:

Have you got any questions about your upcoming trip to Xochimilco? Let us know in the comments below!

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Travel lover, professional writer and football (soccer) obsessive, James loves nothing more than getting outside and exploring little known corners of the globe. He’s also very partial to a drop of Guinness.

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This is so helpful, thank you! Wondering how long the aboveground metro trip takes? We’re staying in Condesa.

Ah love Condesa! I can’t remember specifically but I’m guessing somewhere between 30-45mins…Have an awesome time Megan!

I am so happy to come across your website , it has been so helpful. I will be staying in Mexico for few days then heading to Guanajuato. My question i do want to visit Taxco is it worth it, have you been there?

Hi Lynn, so glad you’ve found our information helpful. We haven’t made it to Taxco however so we can’t help there! Have an awesome trip!

I’ve been following on Igram for awhile now. We finally have had enough with covid and got on a plane to CDMX. I googled how to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City and your wonderful article came up. It felt like meeting an old friend. Thank you for all the valuable information.

Hi Eileen! Ah so happy we could help. We’d love to get back to Mexico soon. Have an incredible time 🙂

This was really helpful!! Thank you so much. Heading there today. Apparently todays the busiest day. How are they with just 2 people on the boat?

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Hi, we’re James & Sarah

Full time backpackers turned vanlifers.

We’re here to provide you with valuable travel tips, kickass destination guides & serious vanlife inspiration to help you get your travel adventures off the ground!

Ultimate Guide to Visiting Xochimilco in Mexico City

Are you looking to visit Xochimilco? This is one darn enthralling corner of Mexico City . Visitors come to see the remnants of elaborate Aztec canal systems that once connected the peoples of the Valley of Mexico.

They come to see strange agricultural islands that sprout flowers and local crops just as they have done for centuries. Or they come to see haunting art installations like the curious Isla de las Munecas.

This guide will run through all of the ins and outs of a trip to Xochimilco in Mexico City. As I used to live in Mexico City I’ve been to Xochimilco a million times, as it’s where the young locals throw celebratory parties.

My guide will reveal the enthralling history of this corner of CDMX and list some of the must-see attractions it has up its sleeve. There’ll also be some in-the-know tips on how to travel to Xochimilco by public transport and where to eat when you get there. Enjoy…

Where is Xochimilco?

Xochimilco is one of the 16 municipal districts of Mexico City . It’s the southernmost of the lot, too, sitting nearly 10 miles directly south of the famous Plaza de la Constitucion in the heart of the capital. 

The fertile slopes of the Volcan Teuhtli roll away on the other side of the district, which is situated directly on top of the ancient site of pre-Columbian Xochimilco and what remains of Lake Xochimilco. 

How to Get to Xochimilco

There are a few ways you can make the trip to the enthralling UNESCO area of Xochimilco from downtown CDMX. 

The most popular is by metro and then light rail . First, aim for Tasqueña station in the area of Campestre Churubusco. That’s the end of the Blue Line , but also the starting point for the Tren Ligero , which is the railway that will whisk you all the way down to Xochimilco itself. 

The total cost for this trip will be 5 MXN for the metro and 3 MXN for the Tren Ligero. The ride from Tasqueña takes around 30-35 minutes.

A direct Uber is probably the comfier and more convenient choice because you’ll get a pickup right outside your hotel door and a drop-off in the center of Xochimilco, close to the attractions. However, you’re looking at paying at least 190 MXN ($10) just for the ride. What’s more, traffic can be a nightmare in CDMX, so a transfer like this might take a whole load longer than the train!

Tips for Visiting Xochimilco

Before you set off to Xochimilco, be sure to check out my top tips. They should help your excursion run nicely and smoothly.

• Know what to expect

First, make sure you know what to expect. Most locals go to Xochimilco to party, so their boats with have music, drinks, many people and it will look very fun.

Tourists, on the other hand usually get a more quiet experience with a guy just rowing your boat. It can be peaceful or party-like, depending on how you want it to be.

• Haggle for the price of a trajinera

There are supposed to be upper limits on the amounts that the trajinera drivers can charge. From what I’ve seen, they are routinely ignored. It’s all a bit Wild West when it comes to settling on a price. If you speak Spanish you can pay less, if you don’t then you might overpay. Do not to accept anything over 1000 MXN an hour!

• Be sure you get the right Isla de las Munecas

Many people want to get to Isla de las Munecas, but it’s not so easy. There are two Isla de las Munecases these days. Only one is the real one and the other one is a replica built on the tourist route.

Trip to the real one takes around 1.5 hours each way to the island from the boarding point and it’s not something you can arrange on the spot as it’s privately owned, fenced up, and requires a permit.

If you don’t care, the replica on the “party tourist route” is just as creepy.

• Take a picnic

A day out on the Xochimilco canals is seen as a chill-out session by the locals. Feel free to pack a big picnic and plenty of ice-cold beer to take with you to get into the same spirit. The boats are well-equipped for big groups and dining on the water! 

• Don’t miss the surrounding area

Xochimilco isn’t just about the ancient canals and the spooky Island of the Dolls. It’s also a living, breathing corner of Mexico City, with some enchanting churches and a buzzing marketplace. It’s a good idea to leave some time to explore all that too!

Tours of Xochimilco

Visiting Xochimilco is one of the best things to do in Mexico City so there are plenty of tour options if you want a stress-free day exploring the area. 

Choosing a tour is another easy option for visiting Xochimilco. Doing this means you won’t have to deal with the crowds and stress of the Mexico City metro network , because you’ll be collected from your hotel in the morning and dropped back there at the end of the day. 

Typical Xochimilco tours include transfers, a ride on one of the traditional trajineras boats (more on those later), and a stop at the replica of the spooky Isla de las Munecas (again, more on that later). 

You can also fit Xochimilco into a multi-day tour of CDMX that includes other enthralling sites like the pyramids at Teotihuacan. Single-day outings start at around $30 per person but below is a list of the top tours to Xochimilco. 

Recommended Tours:

• Xochimilco, Coyoacán and Frida Kahlo Museum Tour – This group tour from Mexico City is a great choice if you want to see all that the area has to offer and are interested in learning more about Frida Kahlo.
• Xochimilco: Boat ride and Mexican Party – If you mostly want to experience a fun afternoon on the trajinera boats, this is the tour for you. Enjoy partying with your fellow participants on one of these colorful floating boats, just like the locals.
• Private City Tour in Frida Kahlo, Coyoacan, and Xochimilco – Prefer to have a guide and boat all to yourself? Book a private tour just for you and your friends or family.
• Mexico City Tour and Xochimilco Canal Boat Ride – This tour is a great choice if you are short on time as you can combine a tour of the whole of Mexico City with a ride on a trajinera in the interesting canals.

History of Xochimilco

The area now called Xochimilco has been inhabited by humans since anyone can remember. Hunter-gatherer nomads were the first to come, but they were replaced sometime around the 9 th century AD by Nahua tribes who moved into the fertile Valley of Mexico from elsewhere in Mesoamerica. 

The Nahua were the ones who began the tradition of building artificial islands to cultivate crops . Known as chinampa, they completely changed the geography of Xochimilco, converting it into an ancient breadbasket that produced everything from chili peppers to maize. 

This innovative form of agriculture helped Xochimilco rise as one of the great powers of the region in pre-Columbian times until eventually being subsumed into the Aztec Empire. 

By the time the Spanish arrived in the 1500s, there were countless chinampa gardens in Xochimilco, along with a vast and intricate web of canals that linked all the main commerce centers in the Valley of Mexico. 

They continued to be used throughout the colonial era for both food production and transportation. However, the 20 th century saw a huge explosion in the size of Mexico City , and the urban sprawl began to take its toll.

By the 1970s, vast swathes of the Aztec canal system and its chinampa gardens had been gobbled up by the encroaching barrios. The decision was made to protect the ones in Xochimilco for posterity. 

The whole area was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 . It’s now one of the most-visited outer districts of the capital, offering a unique glimpse of the ancient way of life of the pre-Columbian peoples of Mexico . 

Things to Do in Xochimilco, Mexico City

This corner of CDMX is riddled with intriguing sights and activities, from cruisy water trips to eerie islets you won’t want to linger on too long…

Take a trip on a trajinera

The lazy ride on a trajinera boat is the highlight of Xochimilco . These colorful wooden skiffs will be your ticket to the pre-Aztec canal systems that filter through the historic Chinampa farms and into the heart of the ancient city. 

They’re known for their lush vegetation and the smells of the flowers that waft over from the market gardens. 

The boats themselves are a joy to be on. Most come with tables and wooden seats so you can enjoy a taco picnic as you go . 

It’s really important to haggle and haggle hard when you come to board the trajinera. The CDMX authorities officially limit the price to 500 MXN per hour , but most visitors end up paying far more than that. 

Special trajinera trips to spots like the Isla de las Munecas can be as much as 2000 MXN. 

See Isla de las Munecas

The Isla de las Munecas is one of the stranger sights to see amid the waterways of Xochimilco. 

The name in English means ‘The Island of the Dolls’, and the place doesn’t disappoint with its countless effigies of plastic children’s toys strewn in the trees, the mud, and on rickety wooden walls . 

The story goes that the place was once the home of one Julian Santana Barrera, who came here to become a hermit but discovered the body of a dead girl floating in the nearby waters. The dolls were his way to ward off her spirit and keep her soul from haunting his new home.

Be warned that the Isla de las Munecas is now such a favorite among dark tourists that there’s even a copycat island doing the rounds. The real one lies around 1.5 hours by trajinera, very deep in the waterways of Xochimilco. 

To ensure you get the right place, head to the port at Embarcadero Celada to catch the water taxi. It’s the closest of all to the official Isla de las Munecas. Expect to pay at least 2,000 MXN to get there and back. 

Oh, and keep an eye out for the fake isla as you go – it’s much closer to the port and covered in black mesh fences that hold the dolls. 

The chinampa

Keep watch for the age-old chinampa gardens as you sail through the waterways of Xochimilco. 

There are only an estimated 5,000 or so left in the area, down from tens of thousands at the peak of the Aztec Empire. 

Crafted from sunken reed boats laden with peat and mud , they’re manmade islets topped by uber-fertile growing land that was historically used to cultivate maize and pulses to feed the ancient Xochimilco peoples. 

Today, they are known for their flower blooms and will smell darn fantastic if you catch them at the right time of the year. 

Museo Dolores Olmedo

Just outside the waterways of the ancient archaeological and eco parks where you’ll sail and see the lush islands, the Museo Dolores Olmedo offers a taste of more modern Mexican culture. 

It’s housed in a traditional hacienda estate that oozes Latin charm. The collections within include pieces by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. There’s also a stunning Spanish-styled hermitage building on the grounds.

Cuahilama 

If you’ve got a little extra time to spare on your day trip to Xochimilco, you could hop in a taxi and head out to Cuahilama. 

It’s a strange archaeological site , dotted with a few mystical Aztec and Nahuatl shrines that are covered in religious relief carvings and petroglyphs. 

Sadly, the place is very poorly managed by the local authorities and there’s really no infrastructure. We also can’t vouch for the safety of the surrounding area, so be sure to have your wits about you if you decide to tack it onto the itinerary. 

How Much Will a Day in Xochimilco Cost?

This day outing from Mexico City should cost less if you decide to skip a planned tour of Xochimilco and organize things yourself. 

You’re basically looking at paying the 8 MXN ($0.40 USD) for the public transport there, double for a return, and about 500 MXN for a boat trip on one of the trajineras. 

That adds up to less than $26 for the whole day , although it doesn’t include any food and drink you purchase along the way.

Alternatively, you can pay about $40 for a tour that goes to Xochimilco. They’ll usually include a one-hour trajinera trip, along with pickup and a drop off at your hotel. Trips to other spots like the spine-tingling Isla de las Munecas will add more to that total. 

Where to Eat in Xochimilco

Some tours of Xochimilco will include a packed lunch, and you might want to dine onboard the trajinera boats like most of the locals do. Or, you can pick some food up from a food boat passing by…

If not, how about trying…

• Xochimilco Market – This sprawling bazaar is the best place to stock up on takeaway tacos, tropical fruits, popcorn, and all manner of Mexican street food before you board the boats. It’s also super cheap and all very local. 
• Las Vaqueras – Conveniently located right by where you board the trajinera boats, Las Vaqueras is hailed as the home of Mexico City’s best michelada cocktails, which mix beer and lime juice, and spices in a salt-rimmed glass. Don’t knock it until you try it!
• Tacos “Los Jefes & Pantera” – You could ask your taxi driver to make a pit stop at this wonderful taqueria on the way to Xochimilco. It’s a few blocks to the west of the waterways but is highly rated for its spicy corn tortillas. There’s a very casual vibe and takeaway is possible if you’re planning a water-top picnic!

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Visit Xochimilco, the Venice of Mexico City

• Post published: 1 September 2023
• Post category: Mexico City / Places
• Reading time: 9 mins read

Xochimilco: An Oasis of Peace and Beauty in the Heart of Mexico City

The name Xochimilco derives from the Nahuatl words “xochitl” and “milli,” meaning “where flowers grow.”

Xochimilco, one of Mexico City’s 16 boroughs, lies south of the capital in the Mexico Valley. Known for its dense network of canals winding through chinampas—man-made islands for cultivating flowers, fruits, and vegetables—it covers approximately 122 square kilometers, with 89 km² of canals and chinampas. The Rio Churubusco traverses the area, connecting it to Lake Texcoco, making it a globally unique locale of canals and artificial islands.

Xochimilco serves as a significant tourist destination, rich in cultural and historical importance. Tracing back to pre-Columbian times, its initial inhabitants, the Xochimilca, practiced agriculture and fishing. Conquered by the Aztecs in the 15th century, Xochimilco transformed into a pivotal agricultural center.

Today, Xochimilco flourishes as a historical and cultural hub. It offers archaeological sites, museums, and churches for exploration. The area also hosts diverse wildlife within a vital natural habitat. A favored tourist attraction, Xochimilco beckons visitors worldwide. Exploring aboard a trajinera, a traditional boat accommodating up to 20 people, is the best way to appreciate its waterways and chinampas’ beauty.

" Xochimilco " by cronoser is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

History and Culture

Xochimilco’s roots date back to pre-Columbian times. Early human settlements began around 2000 B.C. during the Mesoamerican pre-classic period. By the late Mesoamerican post-classic period, Xochimilco stood as a significant altepetl, or city-state, conquered by the Mexica in the 15th century.

The Xochimilca, the pre-Columbian inhabitants, excelled in chinampas—a technique crafting artificial islands on lakebeds, in this case, Xochimilco Lake. These chinampas, created using reeds and branches as support for nutrient-rich soil, allowed the cultivation of diverse crops like maize, beans, squash, tomatoes, and flowers.

The Aztecs, captivated by the area’s beauty and agricultural wealth, made it a vital farming center for Tenochtitlan, their capital. After the Spanish conquest, Xochimilco remained agriculturally significant, though European influence altered its use. The canals transported goods and people, while chinampas expanded to cultivate ornamental plants and flowers.

The Aztecs, who conquered Xochimilco in the 15th century, admired the area’s beauty and agricultural abundance. They transformed it into a crucial agricultural hub, cultivating goods for the consumption of their capital, Tenochtitlan. Following the Spanish conquest, Xochimilco remained a pivotal agricultural center. However, the arrival of Europeans led to significant changes in the region. The canals were repurposed for transporting goods and people, while chinampas began serving as spaces for cultivating flowers and ornamental plants.

Today, Xochimilco is a place rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore archaeological sites, museums, and churches. Notable archaeological sites include Cuicuilco Pyramid, Temple of Quetzalcoatl, and Temple of Tlaloc. The Xochimilco Museum, located in the historic district, houses a collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts. The San Bernardino de Siena Church, built in the 16th century, stands as a significant example of colonial architecture.

It is a protected area within the Xochimilco National Park. This zone is a crucial testament to ancient Mesoamerican agriculture, hosting abundant biodiversity. It’s also a prominent cultural hub, hosting a variety of festivals and events, including the Day of the Dead celebration on November 1 and 2. During this time, the canals fill with trajineras adorned with flowers and decorations, as people gather to commemorate their loved ones.

Chinampas are one of the most iconic features of Xochimilco. They are man-made islands for cultivating flowers, fruits, and vegetables—a significant testament to ancient Mesoamerican agriculture. Constructed using reeds and branches as support, nutrient-rich soil is deposited. This soil is often sourced from lake bottoms, dredged and filtered. Chinampas are meticulously tended by hand to remain in good condition.

Xochimilco’s chinampas are a crucial source of income for the local population. Chinampa cultivators yield a variety of agricultural products, including maize, beans, squash, tomatoes, and flowers. Flowers are particularly cherished and used to adorn trajineras, the traditional boats navigating Xochimilco’s canals.

Xochimilco’s canals constitute a pre-Columbian transport and irrigation system. Ranging from 2 to 10 meters wide and 2 to 4 meters deep, they are navigable by trajineras—traditional boats accommodating up to 20 people.

Flora and Fauna of Xochimilco

Xochimilco is a vital natural habitat, teeming with rich biodiversity. The chinampas serve as ideal habitats for a range of plants—flowers, fruits, and vegetables. Common plants include orchids, lotus flowers, sunflowers, and tomatoes.

Xochimilco is also a significant habitat for birds like flamingos, kingfishers, ducks, and swans. The canals host a variety of fish—tilapia, carp, trout—and are home to turtles, snakes, and other aquatic animals.

Environmental Challenges

Xochimilco, a delicate ecosystem, faces a range of environmental challenges, including:

• Water pollution from industrial and domestic discharges.
• Urbanization leading to reduced canal and chinampa areas.
• Climate change, causing rising sea levels and soil salinization.

These challenges negatively impact the area’s biodiversity, endangering its survival.

To safeguard Xochimilco, protective measures have been implemented, including:

• Establishment of the Xochimilco National Park to conserve biodiversity.
• Environmental restoration projects to reduce pollution and enhance water quality.
• Promotion of sustainable activities preserving culture and the environment.

These efforts have improved Xochimilco’s environmental situation, yet continued work is necessary to safeguard this vital natural area.

Tourism and Activities

Xochimilco stands as a popular tourist destination, alluring visitors globally. The best way to explore is by trajinera, a traditional boat accommodating up to 20 people, offering a unique perspective of canals and chinampas.

Popular activities include:

• Navigating the Canals : Trajineras are available for rent at various canal entry points.
• Chinampa Visits : Explore chinampas on foot or by trajinera.
• Archaeological Sites : Visit pre-Columbian sites like the Cuicuilco Pyramid, the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, and the Temple of Tlaloc.
• Participate in Dia de los Muertos : During this festival on November 1-2, trajineras are adorned with flowers as people honor departed loved ones.

In addition to traditional activities, some options include:

• Fishing: Xochimilco’s canals are an ideal fishing spot. Fishing equipment can be rented at various starting points along the canals.
• Kayaking: Kayaking offers a unique way to explore Xochimilco’s canals. Kayaks are available for rent at different starting points along the canals.
• Cycling: Cycling is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Xochimilco. Bicycles can be rented at different starting points along the canals.
• Hiking: Xochimilco is a great place for hiking. You can follow trails leading to archaeological sites, chinampas, and other natural attractions.

Tourist Tips

Here are some tips for tourists visiting Xochimilco:

• Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds.
• Reserve a trajinera in advance, especially on weekends.
• Wear comfortable attire for extensive walking.

" Volcanes vistos desde Xochimilco " by Serge Saint is licensed under CC BY 2.0

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World Cultural Heritage

Xochimilco, a unesco world heritage place.

Xochimilco, which in Nahuatl means 'Field of Flowers', outstands by a series of rain channels existing since pre-Columbian times, when the Valley of Mexico was full of lakes and lagoons almost entirely. Today, much of the nature of Xochimilco remains, together with cultural elements of its pre-Hispanic origins, art and colonial culture, the marimba, mariachis, corn, parties, and trajineras, as well as the production of vegetables, ornamentation, and flowers in the chinampas located throughout the entire place. Xochimilco holds an ancestral history, a festival of colors, and a range of traditions.

Xochimilco Traditions

The colorful, flowery, and highly decorated trajineras are some of the distinctive features of this important place of the Mexican culture, where chinampas crops remain, and farmers move by sailing through the canals while enduring their traditions and celebrations.

Xochimilco is a place to please your palate with an endless variety of flavors and colors; it’s dancing to the sound of Mariachi, it’s the stories and legends, and marveling at its unparalleled beauty.

For its rich history, colonial art, parties, traditions and natural environment, Xochimilco is today one of the most attractive and interesting places to visit in Mexico City.

Because of its cultural contribution to the world, on December 11th, 1987, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Xoximilco Cancun

Xoximilco Cancun was born to pay homage to the tradition, beauty and history of this iconic place and it’s ready to take you on a tour in which you can live the most festive traditions of Mexico.

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8 Best Xochimilco Tours In Mexico City

Looking for the best Xochimilco tours for your upcoming trip? 

In our opinion, the Xochimilco floating gardens are an unmissable attraction. Not only are they a historic and unique UNESCO World Heritage site, the gardens also provide an accessible opportunity to experience modern Mexican culture . 

Xochimilco (meaning flower garden in Aztec) is best known for its 170 kilometres of serene canals , its colourful garden ‘islands’,  traditional trajinera boats , plus its party atmosphere.  

However, it is also an important ecological site which is home to many native plants and endemic species, as well as the much-loved axolotl. 

We love this area and have visited it several times. Each visit has involved something new to see (and eat), and we have had a different experience on each trip. We think an Xochimilco tour will be a highlight of your time in CDMX (alongside attending a Lucha Libre show and visiting the Teotihuacan Pyramids .) 

TOP PICK Of Xochimilco Tours

Xochimilco, Coyoacán And Frida Kahlo Museum Tour

Discover the vibrant spirit of Xochimilco with this 10-hour combo tour. It combines two exciting tours into one, saving you money while doubling the fun.

Other Top Tours:

🌟 BEST PRIVATE TOUR 📍 Xochimilco All-Inclusive, Private Tour With Food ➡️ CHECK RATES

🌟 BEST PARTY TOUR 📍 Xochimilco Mexican Party With Unlimited Drinks ➡️ CHECK RATES

🌟 BEST COMBINED TOUR 📍 Xochimilco, Museo Frida Kahlo, Coyoacan, Museo Diego Rivera Anahuacalli & UNAM Biblioteca Central ➡️ CHECK RATES

Best Rated Xochimilco Tours From Mexico City

Due to the close proximity to the capital, Xochimilco tours from Mexico City can be fitted into even the shortest vacation. In our opinion, the best Xochimilco tours provide at least one hour on the water. 

We also recommend trying to combine Xochimilco boat tours with other attractions to get the most out of your time. 

#1 Xochimilco, Coyoacán And Frida Kahlo Museum Group Tour

WHY BOOK THIS TOUR

If you’re looking for Xochimilco Mexico City tours packed with activities, check out this 10-hour tour. It is actually an amalgamation of two separate tours; you will save money by doing the discounted combined tour rather than the two separate tours.

It has a maximum number of 30 guests and allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. 

WHAT’S INCLUDED

The tour starts with a tour of Coyoacán, a 16th-century neighbourhood in Mexico City which dates back to pre-Hispanic times. Today, the area is a cultural and artistic hotspot in the city. 

You will then have a 1-hour visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum (also known as Casa Azul or Blue House), where Kahlo lived with her husband, Diego Rivera.

Afterwards, you will travel to Xochimilco where you will learn how the Chinampas islands were built and utilised.  The tour will take a 1-hour slow cruise on the Chinampa channels. If you want to, you can try food and drink such as mixiote (barbequed meat) and pulque (a milky alcoholic beverage) from vendors. 

After the trajinera ride, you will visit Ciudad Universitaria to see the Juan O’Gorman & Diego Rivera murals before travelling back to the drop-off point.

#2 Xochimilco All-Inclusive, Private Tour With Food

This Xochimilco private tour is a maximum of five hours, so it can be taken as a half-day trip from the capital. It is ideal for foodies or for people who want to focus solely on the cultural experience of Xochimilco rather than the party vibe. 

You will be driven in comfort to Xochimilco whilst your guide points out interesting Mexico City locations and talks about the city’s culture and history. 

Upon arrival at Xochimilco, you will transfer to a private boat for a leisurely 2-hour cruise around the canals and floating gardens. Again, your guide will be proactive in explaining what you are seeing and its significance. 

At the end of the ride, you will be driven back to your accommodation in the city centre. 

#3 Xochimilco: Boat Ride And Mexican Party, With Unlimited Drinks

If you want to find party-loving Xochimilco tours, Mexico City has several to offer. We think this tour is one of the best as it offers good value for money. 

Plus, it has a small group size of 10, which is perfect for a party! Note that transportation from Mexico City is not included. 

This is one of the Xochimilco tours that is all about the party. After making your own way to the floating gardens, you will enjoy a 2-hour cruise with unlimited snacks and drinks. 

You will make a stop at the replica Island of the Dolls and end at a handicraft market. 

Best Private Xochimilco Boat Tours

There are lots of private Xochimilco tours which pack multiple attractions into one trip so you can make the most of your sightseeing day. 

Private tours are a great option for people who are short on time. We also think that private tours are a good way to make local connections. 

Plus, one of the best things about a private tour is that you can learn a lot and ask as many questions as you like.

#4 Frida Kahlo Museum, Coyoacan, And Xochimilco

This 6-hour Xochimilco boat tour also visits two other city centre attractions, so if you feel uneasy using public transport or taxis, this is a good option for you. We advise wearing comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking on this Xochimilco canal tour. 

It allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.  

After your private pick-up, you will be driven to the Frida Kahlo Museum, where you will have 1 hour to explore. 

Afterwards, you will enjoy a 2-hour walking tour of the colourful Coyoacán neighbourhood, passing sights such as the Mercado, the Parroquia de San Juan Bautista, the Plaza Centenario and the Casa de Cultura Jesús Reyes Heroles.

You will then be driven to the floating gardens of Xochimilco to board one of the Xochimilco boats for a 2-hour private boat ride before being driven in comfort back to your CDMX accommodation. 

For content and timings, we think this tour is the best combined Xochimilco Mexico City tour on offer. 

#5 Xochimilco, Coyoacán And Frida Kahlo Museum + Ciudad Universitaria

If you have limited time in CDMX, this well-paced 10-hour tour is one of the Xochimilco canal tours with an activity-packed schedule.

You will be picked up at 8 a.m. and driven to your first stop, the buzzing Coyoacán neighbourhood. After a short introduction to the long history of the area, you will have around 1 hour to explore on your own. 

You will then go to the Frida Kahlo Museum, where you can enjoy a 1 hour visit. 

Afterwards, you will be driven to Xochimilco for a 1-hour 20-minute ride on a traditional trajinera. 

The last stop of the day is Ciudad Universitaria (one of the famous landmarks in Mexico City ) to see its UNESCO-listed murals. 

Xochimilco tours don’t get much busier than this tour! 

#6 Xochimilco, Coyoacán Private Tour, And UNAM Biblioteca Central

This tour visits several attractions in one day and offers visitors the flexibility to tailor the tour to their personal interests. It also allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. 

After a 9 am pick up, you will be driven to Coyoacán for a 3-hour visit. Your guide will explain the history and culture of the area. They will also bring you to the food market and takeaway food stalls to try delicious local specialities. 

You will then make a 40-minute stop to view the murals at the National University before travelling on to Xochimilco, where you will take a 1.5-hour boat ride. 

This company also offers the option to extend your Xochimilco boat ride if you want to venture further into the canals or visit the original Island of the Dolls. 

Best Combined Tours To Xochimilco

You will need a good rest before joining the following Xochimilco tours. Their action-packed schedules involve a lot of walking, but the bonus is that you will see a lot of attractions quickly and easily in one day. 

#7 Xochimilco, Museo Frida Kahlo, Coyoacan, Museo Diego Rivera Anahuacalli, UNAM Biblioteca central

If you want a combined Xochimilco tour Mexico City tour but are short on time, check out this private 6-hour tour. You may not have a lot of time at each site, but you will pack a lot of sights into one day. 

Plus, you visit the canals at the quietest time of the day, so if you are not a party animal, this tour is a good option for you. It is also ideal for art and culture fans. 

After pick up from your hotel, you will head directly to Xochimilco for a 1-hour morning boat ride. 

You will then travel to the Museo Frida Kahlo for a 1-hour visit. Afterwards, you will have an additional hour to explore Coyoacán with your guide, who will show you the principal sights and explain the area’s history. 

You will then make a 30-minute visit to the Museo Diego Rivera Anahuacalli. This eclectic museum houses Rivera’s personal collection of ‘idolje’ (pre-Hispanic figures).

Afterwards, you will travel to the National University for a 20-minute stop to view its famous murals before being dropped back to your hotel. 

#8 Xochimilco, Coyoacan, Estadio Azteca & UNAM Biblioteca

This whistle-top tour visits several attractions in 6 hours and will appeal to football fans. It allows large group numbers, but the upside of this is the cheap tour cost. 

The tour starts with a 1-hour visit to the murals at the Ciudad Universitaria.

You will then make a quick 15-minute photo stop at Estadio Azteca Mexico, one of the largest and most important soccer stadiums in Mexico.

Afterwards, you will drive to Xochimilco, where you can enjoy a 1-hour boat ride along the canals. 

The tour ends at Coyoacán, where you will have 1 hour to explore before travelling back to your accommodation. 

How To Get To Xochimilco From Mexico City Independently

If you have decided that Xochimilco tours are not for you, you are probably wondering how to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City. 

The good news is that there are two options you can try. 

Apart from getting there, it is relatively easy to tour Xochimilco independently, and you will have more time to explore other parts of this fascinating area.

We think that Xochimilco has more to offer than just the canals and boat rides. We recommend spending a little longer in this area to visit the Cathedral of San Bernardino de Siena, the fabulous food market and the central flower market. 

By public transport

It is possible to take the metro from the centre of Mexico City all the way to Xochimilco. The journey involves changes, and although you are only covering 19 km, it will take a couple of hours each way. However, the journey will be cheap. 

Firstly, take the No. 2 Blue Line from Mexico City all the way to the last station, Tasqueña.  

From Tasqueña, take the overland light railway (or tram) for 25 minutes to Xochimilco station. From here, it is a 20 – 30 minute walk to the nearest boat dock. 

You can also take the No.143 bus from Coyoacán to Xochimilco. It will take between 30 – 60 minutes, depending on traffic. 

If you are a confident driver, you can hire a car in CDMX and self-drive to Xochimilco. This will allow you to set your own timetable and spend as long as you like exploring the floating gardens. There is a large, free car park near the docks where you can catch the boats. 

Another option is to travel by Uber . 

An Uber from Mexico City to Xochimilico will cost anywhere from 200 MXN to 500 MXN, depending on your location in the city centre.  

Catching an Uber is a cost-effective way to reach Xochimilco in Mexico City if the cost is shared between a group. 

Xochimilco Tours: FAQs

Is Xochimilco worth going to?

Xochimilco is a scenic and historic UNESCO World Heritage site which will give you a different perspective of Mexico City. As it is popular with locals, it will also give you an insight into contemporary Mexican culture. So yes, it is absolutely worth visiting! 

In addition to a ride on the canals, you can also visit the Dolores Olmedo Museum (home to the largest collection of Diego Rivera work in the world), the eerie Island of the Dolls and the Archaeological Museum. 

If you don’t want to join one of the tours Xochimilco can also be explored independently if you have sufficient time in your schedule.

What are the opening hours at Xochimilco floating gardens?

Xochimilco hours vary according to the season. In summer, Xochimilco opening hours are 9 am to 6 pm. In winter, it is 9 am till 5 pm. 

How far is Xochimilco from Mexico City?

If you are travelling to Xochimilco from Mexico City, the journey time is short (depending on traffic) as the two locations are only 19 kilometres / 12 miles apart. 

Do you need to book Xochimilco in advance?

You do not need to book the floating gardens of Xochimilco in advance unless you want to join one of the Xochimilco tours. 

If you do not book in advance, there will be lots of boats touting for your business once you arrive.

What’s the best time to go to Xochimilco?

When to visit Xochimilco depends on what type of experience you wish to have. 

If you want a tranquil, serene float on the canals, visit in the morning or early afternoon on weekdays. 

If you want a party or fiesta experience, visit in the late afternoon or at the weekends. Xochimilco is a popular destination with locals, so weekends are the busiest and liveliest time to visit. 

How much is a boat ride in Xochimilco?

A boat ride has a set cost of 600 MXN / $35 per boat per hour. This cost is set by the local authorities, so it cannot be negotiated. 

This fee is per boat, not per person, so if you want a boat to yourself, it won’t be cheap. However, if you join a boat with 15 other people, the fee is split, and the ride will be very cost-effective. 

How much you spend exploring the Xochimilco canals depends on what type of visit you want. 

If you bring your own food and drink, don’t buy any souvenirs or pay for any songs; you can enjoy Xochimilco on a budget. However, in our opinion the music, food and drink are part of the experience so we advise bringing some extra cash to spend.

Is Xochimilco a tourist trap?

Xochimilco is known as a lively party venue, and you can expect lots of vendors trying to sell you food, drink, music and souvenirs. 

If this scene is not for you, simply visit Xochimilco at quieter times of the day; the mornings are best for a quiet visit. 

However, although the party vibe is not to everyone’s taste, we think it is part of the Xochimilco experience and should be taken as it is – a fun slice of contemporary Mexican culture. 

Is Xochimilco cash only?

Xochimilco Gardens Mexico City is free to enter, but Xochimilco tickets for boats must be paid for in cash. Souvenirs, food and drink sellers – plus the musicians – will only take cash payments. 

How long do you need in Xochimilco?

We think you need at least two hours to fully explore Xochimilco floating gardens in Mexico City. You will need four hours or more if you want to visit the original (not the replica) Island of the Dolls. 

In our experience, the Xochimilco tour we have taken has provided an adequate amount of time on the canals.

What should I wear to Xochimilco?

If you’re visiting the floating gardens of Xochimilco Mexico City, we advise wearing cool clothes which provide adequate skin coverage. Although the boats have a roof, they have no sides, and it can be deceptive how much sun you will actually be exposed to. 

Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses and plenty of water – especially if you plan on drinking alcohol.  

We also advise wearing good gripping no slippy footwear. The boats do not rock but can sway and get slippy, especially with spilt drinks. 

Why is Xochimilco famous?

Xochimilco Mexico floating gardens are famous for their man-made ‘chinampa’ islands. The islands were originally rafts built by the Aztecs from Juniper branches and filled with soil for planting crops. 

Over time, the rafts sank, and the Juniper branches rooted to the lake floor. As the islands multiplied over the years, the lake eventually became a series of canals. These canals then became an important trading and transport route. 

Today, the canals have a reputation as a vibrant cultural attraction, but they also form part of an invaluable ecological reserve. 

Can you go to Xochimilco at night?

You can only visit Xochimilco at night on one of the special, nocturnal Xochimilco tours.

How much are mariachis in Xochimilco?

You can pay mariachis to sing and play for you as you ride along the canals at Xochimilco. You can expect to pay around 150  MXN per song, but again, this can be shared amongst all the people on the boat to keep costs down. 

What are the boats at Xochimilco called?

The boats at Xochimilco Mexico City are called trajinera – from the Spanish word ‘to travel.’

Each flat-bottomed boat has a name and is brightly coloured and patterned. Together, they create a memorable scene on the canals. 

Xochimilco Tours: Final Thoughts

Xochimilco tours are a great option for solo travellers, for visitors who are short on time or for anyone who enjoys a party atmosphere. There is a tour to suit everyone. 

Plus, the overall experience will be cheaper if you share your boat, music and food with other people on a tour. We hope this guide has helped you find the best Xochimilco tour for your trip. 

We think Xochimilco is a unique Mexico City cultural experience which should not be missed. We love it and think you will too. 

MORE CDMX TRAVEL GUIDES :

9 Best Mexico City Walking Tours

• 19 Best Rooftop Bars In Mexico City
• Mexico City To San Miguel De Allende
• Mexico City To Oaxaca

17 Best Beaches Near Mexico City

16 best museums in mexico city to visit.

Mal is a Polish-British full-time travel blogger with over 4 years experience. When she's not travelling South East Asia or Europe, she lives in La Condesa CDMX. Her passions are photography, surfing and Mexican food.

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Visiting xochimilco mexico city.

Last updated on November 7th, 2023 at 08:02 am

Usually when I’m traveling, it’s a bit of a mess. I make plans, but, no matter what, something always goes wrong. That is just the nature of travel. But sometimes things just go right. Our day trip to Xochimilco in Mexico City is an example of one of the times everything went right.

Table of Contents

Preparing to Visit Xochimilco

I had heard about Xochimilco in my extensive research of Mexico City and I was really hoping that we would get the chance to visit. I didn’t want to take a tour though, I wanted an authentic experience. In my research, I had read that it is cheaper and more fun to rent a boat with others, but they won’t let you rent with strangers if it appears that you didn’t come together. So it is ideal to meet someone prior to arriving at the dock, if you wish to save some money.

I had everything planned out. Take the subway all the way to Xochimilco, make friends on the subway, arrive in Xochimilco, and rent a boat. Simple, right? This plan was dependent on our ability to successfully navigate two hours outside the city, make friends with strangers headed to the exact same place, and speak Spanish well enough to haggle the boat price down.

I felt confident that we could be successful in one of these areas, but the likelihood of all these things happening was near impossible. Not to mention that I tend to get my hopes up that I will be able to find and navigate these authentic experiences, just to discover that there is more to it than expected. For example, when we were in Andalusia, I thought I would be able to eat tapas all day, but in reality I had a hard time finding authentic tapas bars .

However, despite all these doubts, we managed to achieve our goals and had one of the best travel experiences ever. If I can do it, so can you! Here is everything you need to know to plan an incredible trip to Xochimilco (and I’ll cross my fingers that the universe aligns for you as it did for me).

The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco

Perhaps you have heard of the floating gardens of Xochimilco or the Mexico City canals? Both the canals and the floating gardens are in Xochimilco, one of the boroughs of Mexico City,  and their history is quite interesting.

Xochimilco sits on what used to be the shore of Lake Xochimilco. In order to increase agricultural production, the pre-Hispanic people constructed “floating gardens,” or chinampas, out of juniper trees and soil. As these chinampas spread, a series of man made canals were created that connected the Valley of Mexico and were used to transport goods using a type of boat called a trajinera.

Overtime, the lake was drained and the floating gardens combined to create solid ground, leaving only the canals in Xochimilco. Like many other popular tourist attractions, the canals of Xochimilco are still endanger of disappearing. They were proclaimed a World Heritage Site in 1987 in order to preserve their history.

Island of the Dolls

Another famous aspect of Xochimilco is the Island of the Dolls, or Isla de las Muñecas. Don Julián Santana Barrera was a local who lived on one of the floating gardens of Xochimilco. The legend says that one day Barrera discovered a young girl who had gotten lost in the current. He was unable to save her but hung her doll to one of his trees as a sign of respect. He began to hear voices and wails, so he continued to hang dolls in order to appease the voices, which he believed belonged to the girl’s spirit.

This story drove many tourists to visit the famous floating island, which you can do if you opt for a longer trip down the canals. All over the canals you will see creepy dolls and stuffed animals hanging from the trees.

How to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City

Getting to Xochimilco using public transportation is easy, but a little time-consuming. Make sure you have purchased a rechargeable CDMX card for the Metro because you will have to buy one for the last leg of your journey anyway. You must load your Metro card with at least 10 pesos when you purchase it and can refill at any station.

Take the Line 2 train going towards Tasqueña for only 5 pesos. Transfer to Tren Ligero and take it 17 stops to Xochimilco. This section of the journey will be 3 pesos with the CDMX metro pass. Finally, walk about another 10 minutes and then you will arrive at Embarcadero De Belem. The entire journey takes about two hours.

There are many other Embarcaderos in the area, but I felt satisfied with Embarcadero Belem de las flores because it was busy (but not too crazy) and there seemed to be plenty of locals around. Another popular boat loading area is Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas, which may require an Uber or Taxi ride from the metro station because it is a bit further.

There is also the option to Uber straight from Mexico City to Xochmilico, which will be more expensive but may save you some time depending on the traffic.

Making Friends in Xochimilco

When we finally got off the last train, seeing no other tourists on our train car, I had lost all hope that we would be able to find anyone to share a boat with. I took one last hopeless glance behind me, just to make sure, and that’s when I saw another couple, about our age, heads craning above the crowd. Eventually they caught up to us and introduced themselves. It turns out that we had heard the same information about Xochimilco and we agreed to head to the docks together to rent a boat.

Renting a Boat in Xochimilco

We honestly could not have done the haggling without our new friends. I give them 100% credit for that. They were both fairly fluent in Spanish and were able to get us an affordable boat with four enormous micheladas. We only rented the boat for two hours, although there was an option to rent for four hours as well. The two hour trip is out and back. The time went by very quickly so I wouldn’t have minded doing a four hour trip as long as there were a couple bathroom stops.

If you don’t speak Spanish and aren’t able to find someone who can, don’t give up hope! Familiarize yourself with the current prices for boat rentals and practice saying that number in Spanish. I wouldn’t be surprised if the dock masters spoke a bit of English either. If you are uncomfortable with that situation, going to Xochimilco with a tour is also an option.

Current Prices of a Trajinera

Prices for a trajinera are per hour and per boat. Do not pay more than 500 pesos per hour for a boat (about $27 USD). You may be able to find a boat as cheap as 350 pesos per hour.

What to Eat in Xochimilco

There are many options for food on your boat ride through Xochimilco. You can bring your own food or drinks, like many of the locals do, or buy food from the vendors on the canals.

The vendors may charge more for their snacks, but the experience of ordering food while on the water is fun. Once you tell your captain what you would like to eat (there are several options), he will attract the vendor selling your desired food and both boats will pull over. Then, sunbathe on the boat while you wait for them to cook up some delicious food! Just make sure you don’t wait to long to ask your captain because there are only so many boats that serve a specific type of food.

We got carne asada and chicken tacos, with rice and beans. We also decided we wanted to try pulque, a traditional Mexican drink made from fermenting sap from the maguey plant. I really liked it and would like to try it again. Once the food arrives and is paid for, feast as you float down the river.

If you prefer to bring your own food and drink, stop at the Xochimilco Market before you head to the docks and pick up whatever you prefer.

Tips for Visiting Xochimilco

• There are bathrooms on the river, so make sure you ask your driver to stop. It may also be good to pace yourself with the drinking because once you pass the bathrooms on the way back, you’ll have to wait.
• Make sure you grab your toilet paper before you go into the bathroom (as with many places around Mexico City).
• Bring cash for the boat ride as well as for any food or souvenirs you want to pick up on the canals. You will also need some smaller change to use for the bathroom and refilling your Metro card.
• Saturdays and Sundays will be busier, but have more of a party atmosphere than a weekday.
• Beware of holidays, like Holy Week and Dia de los Muertos, because they often attract both families and tourists to the area. We went the Sunday before New Year’s Eve and it was busy enough to be enjoyable.

Enjoy Xochimilco

You made it! Sit back and enjoy your boat ride through the canals. This is a very popular spot for locals and you will see many large families feasting as they sail down the river. The boats move slowly because there is so much traffic. Enjoy the Mariachi bands playing, sip on your michelada, and get to know some new people. It is truly an unforgettable experience.

Enjoy drinking with a view? Check out these denver bars with great views .

Other things to do near xochimilco.

If you feel like hanging around Xochimilco after your boat ride, you can check out Pulqueria el Templo de Diana, a traditional Pulquería.

The Frida Kahlo house, Casa Azul, is on the way back from Xochimilco in Coyoacan. This provides the perfect excuse to explore this artsy district of Mexico City.

Have you rented a trajinera in Xochimilco? Did you have a good experience? Let me know in the comments!

Don’t miss out on any other amazing experiences with this guide to visiting Mexico City .

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Hi! I’m Shelby, recent graduate from University of Colorado, Boulder, full-time food and travel lover. When I am not traveling, I am thinking about traveling, enjoying Denver, Colorado, or hanging with my boyfriend, Luke, and our dog, Kona. Since being a recent graduate does not pay that well, I will be sharing ways to incorporate my love of travel into my home life (mostly to keep myself from aimlessly searching google flights), by sharing food, restaurants, and books with you! In the meantime, I am looking forward to planning my next trip.

22 thoughts on “ Visiting Xochimilco Mexico City ”

Top notch travel reporting. You bring all the charms of Xochimilco to life. A really deep dive into the area and all it has to offer.

Thank you so much!

This was so insightful. I will definitely come back to this to plan my trip to Xochimilco. The dolls on the river would probably creep me out a little though 🙂

I agree, they were creepy!

The canals and floating gardens in Xochimilco look amazing! I would love to visit everything you’ve mentioned, but those photos captured my attention! How beautiful, and what a fun boat ride overall.

It was a great time!

Xochimilco is so colourful, i would love to take a boat down the canal with a michelada. We’ve been to Mexico but not made it to the Mexico City area, but we certainly plan on doing so soon.

I absolutely loved it, you should go!

I think the food experience would be the best part! It look so yummy, and plus the views are not bad either!

Mexico is so high on my bucketlist! Xochimilco sounds so different and fun 🙂

You definitely need to go! Mexico is amazing!

Great post and tips about Xochimilco, Mexico City. It’s looks so colorful, just as I imagined.

Thanks, Sarah!

Xochimilco sounds like a great place to visit. The story of the dolls is quite sad really.

I’ve never been to Mexico, but I have a friend visiting mid next year. Will definitely forward this onto her, looks amazing!

I had no idea about the booking process/hagggling because when I went in December, one of the guys in our group of 10 has family in Mexico City and organized everything for us. Now, reading how complicated the process can be, I’m even more thankful I didn’t have to take part in any of the planning of that trip! It was so much fun, and I did particularly enjoy the experience of ordering lunch on the water!

Yes it is so helpful to have someone to organize it for you!

Those floating gardens look amazing! I;ve only been to Peurto Vallarta and near the border towns at San Diego….Id love to visit here and Mexico City!

You absolutely should! I highly recommend it!

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Ultimate Guide to the Fantastical Floating Gardens of Xochimilco, Mexico City [UPDATE 2022]

When planning our trip to Mexico City , Xochimilco was one of those things on the list that I was really on the fence about. I had seen so many pictures online and it looked amazing but could it really be all that ? Was it worth the 45-minute drive out of the city? It seemed like a long way away and I was worried we’d get there and it would be this big tourist trap. There is nothing worst than wasting hours of your precious time when you’re on vacation!

I asked the locals, trying to get their honest opinion. I was surprised to hear how positively even the locals, not just the tourists, spoke about it! With so many resounding responses we decided to make our way down to Xochimilco . To see what all the fuss was about. And let me just say right off the bat, it was my favourite thing we did while in Mexico City! And I would implore everyone to go and see it for themselves.

Group Tours

Groups and collectivos.

Xochimilco is the Venice of Mexico. It’s an enormous network of canals which spread across this southern district of Mexico City. There are over 170 km of canals which spread out in all different directions. Before the Spanish arrived in Mexico City, the indigenous people of Mexico had created an incredible network of canals. They used these both as a means of transport and as a way to ensure there was a constant supply of water throughout the country.

Xochimilco means “ Floating Gardens ” as the Aztecs filled the land with thousands of flowers and vegetation. These fields were called chinampas and were artificial agricultural plots rich in minerals. After the Spanish invasion, they dried up many of the canals in the centre of Mexico City in order to make room for modern roads. But the canals in Xochimilco remained. Today, Xochimilco is UNESCO World Heritage Site as it preserves this Aztec technology.

To access Xochimilco my recommendation would be to take an Uber or find a local guide. Local guides can be both your driver as well as a local ‘fixer’ along the way. If you simply want to get an Uber there are plenty of drivers always on the road to get you there and back. The trip takes about 45 minutes depending on where you’re staying in the city. But there can be heavy traffic at peak times of day which will increase the time and cost. A one-way ride with Uber costs around $10-$15 USD but if there is heavier traffic it could be as much as $25. That’s still very cheap for a 45-minute ride but just something to keep in mind.

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. It’s also where you’ll find food, shopping and restrooms. If you’re taking an Uber to the pier you might find that along the way, people on bikes will stop your Uber along the way. They’ll tell you that the pier is closed and you need to access the canals through an alternative embarcadero. This is completely untrue and a scam to get you to access their alternative dock.

We asked a local if they’ve ever taken the route the bikers lead them on just to test out the scam. He said he had and was brought to a less than savoury-looking entrance. There he found only a few meagre boats which had clearly seen better days . He passed on their offer for a ride and then headed over to the Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas. Which was, of course, not closed at all!

Bus to Xochimilco

If you want to save some money you can always take the bus. The metro is another option but the bus requires only one mode of transportation. Whereas the metro requires a few transfers. Take the bus number 47-A-XAlameda Oriente towards Xochimilco / Bosque de Nativitas . It takes about an hour depending on traffic and costs 30 pesos (about $2).

You can also access Xochilmilco with a group tour. These are often combined with trips to the Frida Khalo Museum or the Pyramids of Teotihuacan . If you really want a huge, group party type of atmosphere then this is the best way to get it. Personally, I find these tours a little pressed for time, often rushing you around from place and to place. I like to take things at my own pace so we chose to do this on our own. But if you’re short on time and want to see all these destinations this is a great option.

The Trajineras

‘Trajinera’ is the name for the iconic brightly coloured boats which float up and down the canals. They have flat bottoms and float throughout the canals, pushed along by a long wooden ore. The boat is controlled by your rower, just like a gondolier. In the center of the boat is a large table and about a dozen chairs on either side. So you can have an entire group ride on the same boat! The covered roof is perfect for keeping the sun off on hot days. But if you want to sit out in the sunlight the front of the boat has ample room.

The boats are vibrantly painted to resemble the flowers which used to grow on either sides of the canals hundreds of years ago. Each boat is given a different name. Half the fun is looking at all the different unique names. You can even call ahead (if you have a local to help) to get your name painted onto a boat. This is perfect for birthdays, bachelorette parties or quinceaneras.

How Much does a Trajinera Cost?

Getting a Trajinera inexpensively isn’t something you should expect when you come to Xochimilco. This isn’t one of those super budget-friendly excursions. 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. I generally go with the set price as it’s a great deal and well worth the price you pay. Remember to tip your boatman at the end of the trip! Most of the money you pay at the start goes to his boss and the actual driver sees little of that. So a nice tip will go a long way for them.

Two-hours is the minimum time you can book as the boat drivers need to make it worth their while. I would go for two or three hours since it takes a while for them to get the boats out of the dock and away from the most crowded areas. When we first went we only booked two-hours and I honestly wish we’d gone out for longer!

If you meet fellow travellers along your travels it’s always worth asking them if they’re interested in a trip out to Xochimilco and that way you can save a bit of money going in as a group. Just be warned that you need to arrive as a group, not just glom onto other tourists who are asking about pricing who are already at the docks. There is also the ‘collectivo’ boat. This larger motorized boat runs every half an hour and only costs 30 pesos each way. It only runs back and forth from one station to another so its a much shorter, less leisurely ride, but if you’re looking for a budget option, this is it!

Once you have secured your boat, you set out from the dock into the canal. Most of the boats are located near the pier and blocked in by dozens of other boats. I didn’t even think it would be possible for us to get out but they did it! Make your way through the field of trajineras into the open water. This felt a little bit like a giant version of bumper cars and was so interesting to watch our driver make his way through the pile of rainbow-coloured boats.

You are allowed to bring whatever food and drinks you want with you on the Trajineras. Just a few minutes away from the main pier is the Mercado Xochimilco , a great place to grab some fresh snacks and delicious treats. There are also various food stalls located along the pier when you arrive at the Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas.

Depending on what day of the week you visit will change what’s open (the weekdays tend to have fewer stalls and sellers open than the weekends), but there’s always something to buy both on land and on the water. That’s right, there’s food available throughout the canals as you travel. Vendors with roasted corn, coconut water, tacos, cold beer and freshly made 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!

La Isla de Las Muñecas

‘ The Island of the Dolls ‘ or ‘ La Isla de Las Muñecas ‘ is a famous attraction along these canals. You probably have seen it on Anthony Bourdain or Buzzfeed Unsolved . Many boatmen will say they’ll take you to the island in 2 hours but the truth is the real island is about 5 hours out from the main pier. There are various replicas of the island you’ll see along the main route but these are not the original. While I think a 5 hours journey might be a little much for most people, the farther out you go the more and more in touch you’ll get with the empty expanses of natural canals and yes, you’ll eventually come to the island of the dolls. Most people who really want to visit the island chose to hire a motorboat to bring them out to the island.

This place is infamous for being one of the most haunted places in Mexico City. Legend has it that the island’s caretaker daughter drowned in the canals after losing her favourite doll in the river. To honour the drowned girl’s spirit the father began collecting dolls and placing them all over the island. He began with a small altar surrounded with dolls and when he ran out of room began hanging the dolls all over the trees on the island. Being left out in the elements the dolls have begun to rot and take on a ghastly appearance. While the reproductions of the islands along the main canals aren’t the real thing, they are pretty interesting to see as you float along.

Entertainment along the Canal

As soon as we 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. We floated by and listened to various other boats with their mariachi bands and it sounded like so much fun that when one approached us we couldn’t refuse the offer.

We hired them for simply one song and asked our guide to choose his favourite tune to get played. It felt so special to have a group of almost 10 musicians board our boat and play just for us. 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. So much music fills these canals, then entire place feels like a giant party even in the middle of the week when we were told it would be a fairly calm day. One can only imagine has loud and exciting it would be on the weekend when this place is filled to the brim with people!

Artisans & Merchant Boats

As you float down the river people also come up to you on their boats selling various souvenirs and craft goods. You’ll see some selling embroidered blankets, others selling flower crowns inspired by the ancient flower fields. You’ll see wooden toys, traditional Mexican dolls and mini replicas of the Trajineras. While this might not be the cheapest place to buy souvenirs the experience of purchasing them on the water is pretty unique and makes for a great story.

We happily drank and ate as we floated down the river and the farther and farther out we got the more and more peaceful and quiet the canals became. When we were about an hour out from the docks, almost no boats remained with us. The canal was almost empty except for our boat and the occasional corn or drink seller. The lush trees contrasted perfectly against the bright blue sky. With all that eating and drinking you might be wondering, “ how do you go to the bathroom? ” Sounds like an odd question but it’s a very important one. Well, fear not! Many of the homes on the edges of the canal have installed their own public washrooms at the end of their lot.

The boats simply pull up and dock near the edge of the canal and you hop out. Most of these cost about 20 pesos but trust me when you need to go you’ll be more than happy to pay the money. They’re relatively clean but I would always recommend using hand sanitizer after using them since the water isn’t potable.

Other Sights along the way

Other things you’ll see along the canals are everything from florists to independent zoos where you can see some the amazing wildlife that lives in these rivers. A lot of these are a little bit of a tourist trap and while we didn’t see the need to go and visit them it was neat to pass them by.

Our Experience

Since we visited on Wednesday, the river was relatively calm and I could only imagine how busy it would’ve been in the weekend when hundreds and hundreds of people come here to celebrate and also just relax with their friends. Almost like an open-air park. We saw there were signs on the outside of houses along the canals selling everything from hot chocolates to coffee to fresh tacos and while most of these were closed, only open on weekends, it was still interesting to see how all the neighbours which face onto the canal have made a life serving the people of their community.

As we floated down the river we saw four boats all tied together having an enormous party. The music could be heard from miles as well as their laughter and jaunty singing. It looked like so much fun and we waved ‘hola’ to them as we passed by. They all waved back to us with huge smiles on their faces. Everyone in the canal in some way felt like family, and I loved that feeling of being surrounded by loving, happy people.

The Titanic

The name of our boat was ‘Titanic’ and our guide told us that this name had been requested by a Mexican comedy show which visited the canals a few months previously. They thought the name would be a funny one for the little skit they were filming there. It was indeed very funny and every other boat we passed would get a good chuckle as we floated past them.

I loved this trip so much and absolutely didn’t wanted to end! As the day has wore on, more and more people began to float the river and on our way back to the dock we past dozens of happening parties on their way out. We finished our day in Xochimilco with a meal by the river, so we could still enjoy watching the boats and people pass by. We ate at one of the small restaurants near the Embarcadero where they even moved a table to their outside patio just for us, it felt like a private room just for us!

All my hesitations and worries about visiting here couldn’t have been further from the truth of this magical place! While you might think it would be touristy, we saw very little tourists when visiting. It was mainly locals we saw enjoying themselves and spending time with family and friends. If you have any doubts about visiting I would push those aside and do everything you can to make it out here. It truly is something so unique to Mexico City and an adventure you won’t soon forget.

« The Ultimate Mexico City Travel Guide: 11 Essential Tips You Need to Know! | UPDATED 2023

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So colourful!

How can we email Gilberto for a tour??

[email protected]

Hi Krista! You can email him at [email protected] !

Great post! Just as an additional information, it is now possible to make a reservation online for a trajinera, which will save you a lot of haggling time and money, even on the busiest days of the year. You can choose what kind of tour you’d like to have and even hire additional services like musicians, portable speaker, tour guide, food, drinks and even your name on the boat. Check out the website: http://www.trajinerasxochimilco.com.mx I hope this is useful!

Thanks for the info Nephtalí! I’ll have to check out this service too.

We booked through this company. Total waste. They offer a cheaper price because their boats are so deep into the boat parking that it takes 30 minutes of the 2 hour trip just to get in and out. The guide was texting for 50% of the time so we were just floating in the middle of the canal not moving. He’d look up when we were going to hit another boat or the bank. With the 30 minutes of in and out of the boat parking time, they still shorted us 20 minutes on the actual canal. We only had 80 minutes of 120 minutes on the actual canal.

The Creative Adventurer

That’s really good information to have Kathryn, thanks for sharing!

What day and time did yall go? I’m trying to figure that out. I’ll be there early on a Friday.

We ended up going on a Wednesday, it was very quiet there but picked up later in the day. We arrived around 11 am, enough time to have some food along the route. I’d recommend the weekends if you’re looking for everything to be open and there to be more action on the canals. While we loved the quiet serene atmosphere I know that people looking for a party would be disappointed. Friday later afternoon into the evening should also be pretty busy and a great time!

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Trajineras Xochimilco - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Xochimilco Aqueduct

Oaxaca City

Wander northwest of the historical core and you’ll ultimately encounter this arched aqueduct rendered in typical green cantera stone that runs the length of Callejón Rufino Tamayo. Built between 1727 and 1751, it was designed to bring fresh drinking water from the hillsides of Cerro de San Felipe into downtown. It served its purpose until 1940, when it was replaced by a more modern if less architecturally elegant system.

Approximately 300 unbroken meters of the aqueduct remains lending the narrow street a tangible colonial air.

Follow the aqueduct north beyond busy Niños Héroes de Chapultepec and you’ll reach the heart of the old Xochimilco quarter , still an important weaving center (look out for the workshops) where the adobe houses are painted lucid shades of red, yellow and green.

Callejón Rufino Tamayo

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Island Of The Dolls: A Guide To Mexico’s Creepiest Attraction

Author: Sam Murray

June 10, 2019

The Island of the Dolls has (quite rightly) been named one of the world’s scariest tourist attractions. If you dare to set foot on the island near Mexico City , you will be met with the horrific sight of hundreds of half-decomposed dolls hanging from trees and wooden shacks.

But the story of how they got there is almost as terrifying as the dolls themselves. Read on, if you can handle it, to discover more about Isla de las Muñecas.

The story of Isla de las Muñecas

In the 1950s, a Mexican man named Don Julian Santana Barrera sought solitude on an island in Xochimilco to the south of Mexico City.

One day, while exploring his land, he discovered the body of a young girl who had drowned in the nearby waters. Soon after, a doll — which he assumed was the girl’s — washed up on the shore. Out of respect for the girl, he hung it from a tree.

Soon, however, Don Julian started to feel the presence of a spirit. In an attempt to satisfy it, he started to hang more and more dolls from the trees. His offerings turned into an obsession. For five decades he continued to hang dolls, which he found in the trash or in the canals’ waters, around the island.

In 2001, after a lifetime of dedication to the island and its dolls, Don Julian’s body was reportedly discovered in the same place in which he discovered the young girl.

Since then, more and more tourists have visited the island to see the dolls and hang their own as a sign of respect for the girl and Don Julian himself.

Are there ghosts or spirits there?

Well, science will tell you… no, obviously. But that hasn’t stopped rumors of some pretty spooky events on the Island of the Dolls. Visitors have reported seeing the heads of the dolls turn to follow them as they explored the islands. Others have heard the whispers, footsteps, and even wails of spirits echo around the island.

Where is the Island of the Dolls?

The Island of the Dolls is in Xochimilco, which is around 30km south of Mexico City. After arriving in Xochimilco, you will need to board a trajinera , a colorful gondola-style vessel which is the main form of transportation around the area’s canals.

Take a boat from the Embarcadero Cuemanco dock, making sure to ask which ones will be stopping at Isla de las Muñecas. The journey should take between one to two hours.

Where to stay

If you’re going to visit the horrors of the Island of the Dolls, then you will want somewhere relaxing to stay. Below are three of our favorite luxury getaways in Mexico City:

Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City

Book a stay at the Four Seasons Hotel in Mexico City for a taste of traditional luxury. The rooms circle a gorgeous inner courtyard which boasts its own centerpiece fountain. Rooms come with a plush, yet modern, design, while guests can take advantage of the on-side restaurants, rooftop pool, and gym. With an ideal spot on Reforma Avenue, you are perfectly located to visit the nearby attractions and upscale restaurants.

St. Regis Mexico City

Stay at the ultra-luxurious St. Regis in Mexico City with its wonderful views over the famous statue of Diana. The rooms, which are designed by Yabu Pushelberg, are stylish, modern, and chic with hues of grays, beiges, and deep purple. The hotel offers top-class amenities, including five excellent restaurants, a spa, beauty salon, and a swimming pool.

Head to Casa Prim for a boutique stay in a former luxury home. Built in the early 20 th century, Casa Prim is a throwback to Mexico’s former mansion homes. Each of the 13 rooms boasts a modern design and the latest luxury amenities. Based in Colonia Juarez, guests can explore the local art galleries, eat at gourmet restaurants, and have a drink at the nearby modern speakeasies.

Explore Xochimilco and the Island of the Dolls

Let us take the difficulty of planning a trip to Xochimilco away from you. Talk to our highly knowledgeable travel planners who can book you an incredible trip to explore its gorgeous waterways.

Combine a trip to Xochimilco with a visit to Mexico City and explore one of the world’s great city destinations.

Posted in: Destinations , Mexico City

Tags: island of the dolls , mexico city , mexico city tours

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

• Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
• Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
• The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
• The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
• Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
• If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Russia: Whether you are interested in history, nature, or architecture, there's much to see in Russia. For a good introduction to some of the most fascinating spots in the country, take a look at our article on the Best Places to Visit in Russia . For more on Russia's second-largest city and all it has to offer, check out our piece on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Petersburg .

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25 Places to Visit in Moscow you Can’t Miss

25 Places to Visit in Moscow

Do you know what the most populous city in Europe is? Most people wouldn’t guess that it is actually Moscow. There are approximately 13 million people in the Moscow metro area, which amounts to approximately 1/10th of all Russians.

This former capitol of the Soviet Union is still the political and financial center of Russia. Just because it is a current business and government city, in no way means that it is boring and not worth a visit. Assuming the political tensions get solved, Moscow is a fascinating city you need to visit.

While lots of people can’t explain the nuances of Russian architecture, most can spot and appreciate it immediately. One of the best ways to see the historic sites is by taking a boat tour down the Moskva River that meanders through the city.

Overall, navigating the city isn’t difficult as there is phenomenal and cheap public transportation (roughly 30 rubles/35 cents per ride). You can also use a cheap Uber on the three ring roads that circle the city at various distances from the center.

Still wondering why you should visit this historic masterpiece of a city? Read on to see the top 25 things you need to see in Moscow.

The House with Animals

This former church is famous for the terracotta reliefs of animals that adorn the front of the building. It is a favorite of locals, and famous around the world. It was built in approximately 1900.

Resurrection Gate or Iberian Gate and Chapel

The Resurrection Gate is now one of the most common ways to enter Red Square. This gate is also the only standing part of the wall that was the entrance to to Kitai-Gorod, or Moscow’s historic central business district.

Book your tour: Moscow Kremlin Armory Chamber Entrance Ticket

St. Basils Cathedral

Probably the most famous of the Red Square attractions is St. Basil’s Cathedral. I don’t know if the legend is true or not, but supposedly Tsar Ivan IV poked the eyes of the architect out after completing it so nothing as pretty could be made again. What an awful boss!

Book your tour: Moscow: Saint Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square Private Tour

Book your tour: St.Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square: Private Tour and Ticket

The State Historical Museum

If you are like me then you can’t help but find all the twists and turns of Russian history fascinating. The State Historical Museum at Red Square is a fantastic place to learn and study the Russian Relics.

Book your tour: Kremlin, Red Square, and Metro Tour with Pick-Up

Moscow River Cruise

The Moskva River cuts directly through the heart of Moscow. Want to see it all but rest your feet? One of the best things to do in Moscow at night is float along on a dinner cruise . The lights of the city are so beautiful. Of course, dinner in included.

Book your tour: Night lights Moscow Cruise (with Dinner option)

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

This is one of the most unique things to do in Moscow. If you know that many American video games paint the Russians as the bad guys, then it’s probably not surprising to learn that you can find an entirely different variety of video games in Russia. This isn’t a recent phenomenon; even historically the video games were different. If you are a video game buff then this stop is for you!

Main Church of the Armed Forces in Park Patriot near Kubinka

This church attempts to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ as well as Russian military leader. Yes, it’s an awkward amalgamation. It caused quite a controversy when there were plans to create murals of Vladimir Putin and Joseph Stalin to go along with the ones of Jesus Christ (those plans were scrapped).

Bunker 42 (Cold War Museum)

Tunnel at Bunker-42, anti-nuclear underground facility built in 1956 as command post of strategic nuclear forces of Soviet Union.

Americans weren’t the only ones afraid during the Cold War! You can now discover the most secret and secure Bunker of the USSR, Bunker 42. Also known as the Cold War Museum . This former military communication center is now a museum. I recommend this tour that will take you on a private two hour visit of Bunker 42.

If you aren’t interested in a guided tour you can book your tickets in advance here.

Get your tickets: Bunker 42 Admission Ticket and Cold War Tour

Tank Excursion and Bazooka Shooting in Moscow

For real – you can book this tour and actually ride in a tank and shoot off military grade weapons. While that’s not my cup of tea, I know tons of guys would absolutely love to shoot a bazooka!

Book your tour here .

Dormition Cathedral

This is another Russian Orthodox cathedral that is located inside the Moscow Kremlin. It is another famous landmark of Moscow. The inside is decorated with ancient frescoes.

The Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God “Sign”

This cathedral is located in Zaryadye Park (adjacent to Red Square). It is also on the Moskva River. The Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God “Sign” previously was a monastery.

Komsomolskaya Metro station 

So many of the metro stations are breathtaking works of art. The idea was to create something beautiful that all the regular people could enjoy, or if you are more cynical you could say it was to attempt to show off how well they were doing.

Book your tour: Moscow: Small Group Metro Tour

The Round houses at Dovzhenko Stree t

The Round houses at Dovzhenko Street look super cool and futuristic, except like many communist projects didn’t actually work that well. They were supposed to be something new and different from the standard “Soviet Blocks.”

There are a number of problems with this design. Supposedly the acoustics are awful making the apartments perpetually noisy. The inner circle becomes a wind chamber even when it’s not that windy. My favorite weakness is that the trapezoid shape of apartments is hard to decorate and even harder to do maintenance on.

Izmailovo District and Izmailovo Kremlin

This area has to be one of the coolest places to visit in Moscow. It features a park in the middle of Moscow that is over 3x the size of New York City’s Central Park. The Kremlin in Izmailovo is a complex located in the Eastern Administrative District of Moscow that is known as the center of culture and entertainment. The wooden buildings are in Russian architecture of the XVI-XVII centuries (not original).

Izmailovo Kremlin on Google Maps .

Tretyakov Gallery

For those that appreciate fine art this is where you have to go. The State Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow Russia is the best collection of Russian fine art in the world. The museum previously hosted worldwide chess tournaments (I can’t help be think of the Queen’s Gambit).

Book your tickets in advance here. Tickets cost about $13 per person.

Kolomenskoe Estate

This reconstruction of a former royal estate is just a few miles southeast of the Moscow city center. Supposedly really detailed historical plans survived, so the reconstruction and current museum is incredibly authentic. It was completed in 2010.

Old buildings of Arbat

Arbat is an old street, and was previously the “nicest place to live in Moscow. Even though it fell into disrepair, it’s location, it’s historical buildings, and the fact that it is a pedestrian street are quickly making it a top place to live again.

The Melnikov House

Located on Arbat street, the Famous house of architect Melnikov designed this house (and Lenin’s sarcophagus). Melnikov designed it at a time when private ownership was outlawed, but got around this restriction by saying it was an experimental design to maximize space. Even though others weren’t built, he was able to keep it.

The New Maiden Convent

The New Maiden Convent, built was built to resemble a mini-Kremlin. It stands out to me because this “convent” was the place where women who were no longer welcome in the royal court were banished to.

Monument to the Conquerors of Space at the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics in the Cosmopark

The Americans may have made it to the moon first, but the Russian cosmonauts were first in a number of other achievements. This gigantic obelisk pays homage to their accomplishments.

Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve

This royal estate was founded by Catherine the Great. She was Russia’s longest serving female leader. It is now a gorgeous museum!

Stalinist Skyscraper tour

This group of seven skyscrapers are called the Seven Sisters. They were all made in the Stalinist style, and one was previously the tallest building in Europe. If you want to tour them all while learning about their history book here .

Cathedral of Christ the Savior

It’s ironic that a country that was so anti-religion for so long has so many great churches. The Cathedral for Christ the Savior was made to thank Jesus for saving Russia. If you are interested in visiting this and so many other cathedrals in Moscow I recommend this tour that will take you to The Cathedral of Christ the Savior many other popular churches in Moscow.

Cathedral of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God

This church on Red Square is reconstruction of what was previously there but ordered to be destroy by Joseph Stalin. It is a travesty thinking of all the beautiful things that Stalin destroyed to attempt to implement his vision.

Zaryade Park

Zaryadye Park is one of the main tourist attractions in Moscow. It is located directly next to the Kremlin, and offers truly amazing views. It is also famous for its “floating bridge” and the fact that there are so many unique features underneath it.

Church of Sign of Blessed Virgin in Dubrovitsy Znamenskaya

The Church of the Theotokos of the Sign (Dubrovitsy), or The Church of the Holy Sign of the Mother of God is located in a village amed Dubrovitsy about 20 miles south of Moscow. It is another Russian Orthodox church, but what makes this one unique is that we aren’t 100% sure who made it, or why is has a style that is completely different than other churches of the time.

The Church of Nicholas The Wonderworker

I love the unique style of the Russian Orthodox churches in Moscow. The golden onion domes stand out across the globe. This church dates back to 1657, though it has been partially destroyed a few times since then.

Moscow University

Moscow University is one of the Seven Sisters that are the “Stalin Skyscrapers.” Previously it was the tallest building in Europe. Though it has lost that title, it is still the tallest “educational building” in the world.

So what do you think? Next trip to Moscow?

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19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

Moscow’s Top 13 – The Main Attractions of the Russian capital

13 Moscow Attractions

One of the most fascinating metropolis, breathtaking city, and a vibrant European capital, Moscow is a powerful mix of history and edginess, full of world famous sites and attractions that are worth exploring. However, it would take weeks to really explore all facets of the Russian capital – unfortunately hardly any traveler has that much time, which is why you should concentrate on the absolute Moscow top attractions and highlights. Here is the list of top 13 Moscow attractions you can choose on your next Russian travel journey.

What Times Square means to New York, Pariser Platz with the Brandenburg Gate to Berlin, or Trafalgar Square to London – Red Square means to Moscow. The heart of Russia’s capital it is the central meeting point and the most famous photo opportunity. No place stands for Russia and Moscow more than “krasnaja ploshchad”, as Red Square is called in Russian.

It is arguably one of the Moscow main attractions and most visited. With the gigantic military parade on Victory Day in World War II, which takes place every year on May 9, the pictures of the square go around the world year after year. But for the rest of the year you will mainly meet local and foreign tourists here, who take peaceful pictures and soak up the unique spirit. The square looks spectacular illuminated at night, but you should visit the square at least once in daylight as well.

If you stand in the middle of the huge cobblestone square, in the clockwise direction you can see the Kremlin and the Kremlin Wall with a total of 20 individually designed towers, Lenin’s Mausoleum, Historical Museum built with red bricks, the little Kazan Cathedral, the impressive luxury department store GUM, the imposing St. Basil’s Cathedral and, the bridge over the Moskva River. This unique ensemble offers more sightseeing highlights at one stroke than any other tourist attractions in Moscow or the world.

So it’s no wonder that Red Square is UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers the most popular photo opportunities worldwide. When visiting Moscow, there is no reason not to visit to Red Square and a selfie is practically also a must – getting there is easy even for Russia newcomers. Although Red Square does not have its own metro station, it is still child’s play to find the way there – especially since the Square is the absolute geographical center of the city.

There are four metro stations in the vicinity, from which it is only a short walk to Red Square, Okhotny Ryad and Teatralnaya directly at the northwest entrance of the Square at the Historical Museum; further to the west is the Lenin Library station, from which one arrives at the same entrance through the Alexander Garden. As well as the station Revolution-square behind the GUM department store, which leads past to the northeast side of the Square.

The Kremlin

This is the biggest active fortress in Europe offering a week’s worth of attractions. For more than 70 years, the Kremlin was the power center of the Soviet Union, which the US President Ronald Reagan called the Empire of Evil exactly 35 years ago, one of the symbols of the East-West conflict in the Cold War. People in the West feared the «dark» plans that were built behind the thick walls of the Kremlin.

The Kremlin is built in a triangular shape on the natural elevation above the Moscow River, known today as the Kremlin Hill. Today’s metropolis Moscow has expanded in a circle around it and the road around the Kremlin is considered the first of several ring roads in Moscow counting.

Now Kremlin has lost its terrifying image, although it is still the seat of the Russian President and thus one of the most important places in World political events. It is an inviting, historical sight for tourists, and one of the famous Moscow tourist attractions which can be visited for just a few dollars.

The large parts of the 28 hectare site can be visited by tourists – with the exception of the Kremlin towers, the presidential Grand Kremlin Palace and the Senate Palace. The first port of call on the site is the so-called Cathedral Square, which is the geographical center of the Kremlin and at the same time the highest point on the Kremlin Hill and contains the three oldest structures in the complex. The three 15 th -century cathedrals of the Kremlin (the Dormition, Archangel Michael and the Annunciation Cathedrals), which together with the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the Cathedral of the Deposition of Mary, make the most famous ensemble of the Kremlin. Also to be visited here are primarily the Armoury and the Patriarch’s palace.

To get to the Kremlin, you have to pass a security gate at one of the two publicly accessible entrances – these are located at the Kutafja and Borovitsky towers. Tickets cost from 700 rubles upwards, the admission to the Armoury, the Ivan the Great bell tower and the Patriarch’s Palace being paid for separately.

More about the Kremlin

Lenin’s Mausoleum

This is the ultimate love it or hate it tourist attractions in Moscow It may be mistaken for a gloomy performance, but Lenin remains an absolute attraction almost a hundred years after Vladimir Lenin death. The founding father of the Soviet Union is not only a fascinating historical figure of world renown for supporters of communism. Despite ongoing discussions about a final burial of the leader of the communist October Revolution in 1918, hundreds of thousands come year after year to the dark marble building on Red Square, right next to the Kremlin wall, to see the embalmed body of the legendary Russian revolutionary.

First opened to the public in 1924, the Mausoleum attracts 2.5 million visitors every year, so, visitors have to wait a long time to get into the illustrious building. Also, photos from inside the Mausoleum are prohibited. But a visit is still a must for Moscow visitors, especially since the visit is free. Please note that the Mausoleum is only open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The queue starts behind the Historical Museum and before you get into the actual mausoleum, you have to pass an airport-like security gate – cameras and cell phones are not allowed into the Mausoleum, but can be safely placed in a cloakroom for a small fee. On the way out of the Mausoleum, after the visit, you pass the graves of the other Soviet heads of state. Including the grave of Josef Stalin, who was briefly kept next to Lenin in the Mausoleum after his death. But in the course of de-Stalinization, the cruel dictator was moved to the less prominent place behind the Mausoleum.

More about the Lenin Mausoleum

The Alexander Garden (Alexandrovsky Sad)

If you visit Moscow in summer, the hustle and bustle in the metropolis of millions can get over your head. The city, best known for its icy winters, can turn into an absolute burning furnace in summer. It sometimes takes over an hour to get to the edge of the metropolis. The perfect retreat, located in the center of Moscow, is therefore the Alexander Garden and one of the Moscow top attractions.

Located directly on the western wall of the Kremlin, the Alexander Garden is just a small, but all the more well-kept park that extends to the nearby Manege Square (Manezhnaya Ploschad). The garden undergoes a lot of changes, with old trees cut down in 2012 and over 200 planted, the authorities also claim that there will be a rosary of 3000 roses. As soon as the first rays of sun warm up the Muscovites, tormented by the long winter, they set off into the countryside. If you are right in the center, you can choose the small park right by the Kremlin.

With a café in hand, which you can get yourself on Manege Square, you can linger here between the carefully tended flower beds. With the Grave of the Unknown Soldier and the regular changing of the guard, there is even a real tourist attraction on top. Entry is free.

The Moscow Metro

In no other metropolis in the world would the subway be declared a sight. Yes, that is truly right as riding this one of the top Moscow tourist attractions is an experience in itself or just a walk through the station is amazing in itself. Whether in New York, Berlin, London or Paris – the big city inhabitants of the world metropolises have a love-hate relationship with their metro. It’s different in Moscow – the residents of the Russian metropolis love their metro and there is a reason for that: in the early days of metro construction, dictator Stalin had built the stations into “palaces for the workers”.

All the splendor of the tsars, which the ordinary Russian never saw, is now open to everyone, regardless of their origin. Indeed, a number of stations on the Moscow Metro, each built shortly before or after the war, are unmatched architectural masterpieces. Mayakovskaya station is often compared to a ballroom for its chandeliers and ornaments. The Teatralnaya stop, located directly below the world-famous Bolshoi Theater, shines with decorations reminiscent of the country’s theater and ballet tradition. Colorful glass windows, almost like in a sacred building, adorn the Novoslobodskaya station.

But the uncalled queen among Moscow’s metro beauties is Komsomolskaya station, named after the youth organization of the Soviet Union. With its huge chandeliers and detailed ceiling decorations, it is the crown jewel among the 331 metro stations. It is not uncommon for tourists to stand in the middle of the platform and take photos under the glances of passengers who just want to walk past the annoying tourists to and from work as quickly as possible.

A ride on the metro currently costs 57 rubles, which is less than one dollar. You should plan a few hours for a tour of the most beautiful stations, but the good news is, once behind the turnstile, a single ticket is enough to stay in the metro system as long as you want.

The Bolshoi Theater

To see Tchaikovsky Swan Lake or the Nutcracker by the same legendary Russian composer on the famous Bolshoi stage – that is the dream of every ballet fan. Home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, nowhere else is the fine art of musical dance lived as much as in Russia – and has been since the times of the tsars.

The Bolshoi itself has been shining back to its former glory since it was built in 1776 since its extensive renovation that cost almost a billion dollars a few years ago. The large historical hall of the building impresses with its opulent golden decorations and creates a very special atmosphere – this was also used by the communist leaders of the Soviet Union, who held their congresses in the building directly at the Kremlin. The Theater is so famous that it currently adorns the 100 ruble banknote and is among the Moscow main attractions.

If you’d like to go to what is probably the most famous ballet theater in the world today, it’s easier than ever. The program can be found months in advance on the official website bolshoi.ru  and can be ordered at very reasonable prices. The cheapest seats in the hall can be booked for as little as 100 rubles, i.e. less than $ 2. However, you should reserve tickets early, as the performances are usually booked weeks in advance. Even for good seats, you pay very moderate prices compared to Western Europe.

There are a few things to watch out for, however, proper, appropriate clothing is welcome, but apart from the obligation to wear trousers, it is not an exclusion criterion for men. If you arrive late, you have to wait outside until the next break so as not to disturb the other guests during the performance. The best way to get to the Bolshoi is by taking the Moscow Metro via the Teatralnaya station, which was built especially for the theater and which stairs are right in front of the main entrance.

More about the Bolshoi Theater

The GUM department store

The Russian abbreviation GUM means main all-purpose shopping center and sounds quite formal for such a shopping temple. Located in front of the Kremlin on Red Square, GUM has existed as a department store since 1920 and was previously a market. It is the most iconic and largest department store in Russia and among the Moscow tourist attractions .   The facade of the building, built in 1890, fits perfectly into the overall picture of Red Square and is illuminated photogenically at night.

In contrast to the scarcity economy of the Soviet era, the GUM today really has everything to offer that one can imagine. It has become the flagship of the shopping and fashion metropolis Moscow. But today you will mainly find smaller luxury shops here. From western high-couture boutiques such as Prada or Gucci to fur for the icy Russian winter, a well-to-do Muscovite or a tourist will find everything their heart desires here.

People can walk through the wide and beautifully decorated arcades of the GUM, free of charge. Cafes invite you to linger. A delicatessen shop on the ground floor sells Russian specialties at affordable prices. Chocolate, honey and caviar, as well as the all-round vodka in Russia, can be bought here as souvenirs for friends and family at home. In addition, the Soviet-style cafeteria on the upper floor is very cheap for lunch.

The GUM offers a special highlight every winter when the department store administration built an ice rink in front of the building directly on Red Square. For only 200 to 300 rubles per hour, depending on the time of day, you can lace up your skates and glide over the ice with the unique panorama of Red Square.

More about the GUM department store 

The Historical Museum

The Historical Museum is a museum of Russian history wedged between Red Square, Lenin Mausoleum, small Kazan Cathedral, and Manege Square. The red brick building of the Museum is a real eye-catcher and Moscow top attractions located on the opposite side of St. Basil’s Cathedral. It is dedicated to Russian history and is built in the Old Russian style, the building did not open until 1883.

The Museum houses everything from an exhibition on the archeology of Russia, through the technological achievements, to the art of the gigantic empire in 16 sections and has a total of 5 million exhibits. So if you are interested in the history of Russia, you cannot avoid visiting this Museum and should plan enough time for it.

A visit costs 150 to 500 rubles, depending on which exhibition you want to visit. The Museum is open in winter, autumn and spring from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., closed on Tuesdays. In the summer months, the extended Saturday times apply daily.

It is probably the most famous park in the Russian capital and the top Moscow tourist attractions – a novel and its film adaptation and a Russian rock band have its name and numerous songs by Russian and international bands and TV series, such as House of Cards, mention it or act here. Gorky Park is a premier green space offering entertainment for every taste. Located southwest of the center of Moscow on the Moskva River, it is designed more for family attractions and rest and the classic park on the other side – has become one of the meeting places for Muscovites of all kinds in recent years.

Whether for a yoga class, a family picnic or beach volleyball match, skateboarding, and cycling – people meet here often. Because even in the Gorky there is an ice surface in winter, the largest in Moscow, which attracts many Moscow residents as well as tourists.

A large-scale renovation in 2011 breathed new life into the park – the roller kiosks were removed and more emphasis was placed on the maintenance of the green spaces. The park remained free of charge and developed into one of the most popular places in the capital. Whether with the rental bike through the green lungs, the pedal boat across the numerous ponds or simply watching the goings-on on the park bench – a visit to Gorki is also absolutely worthwhile for tourists.

Day trip to the Golden Ring

As much as the metropolis Moscow is fascinating, the side effects of a cosmopolitan city like Moscow – the noise, the traffic and the crowds – can overwhelm any tourist. What could be better than a day trip to escape the organized chaos of the cosmopolitan city?

The places on the Golden Ring near Moscow are an ideal destination for this and among the Moscow main attractions – located north-east of the metropolis, these old Russian cities, some of which have existed for much longer than Moscow itself, offer a welcome change from the hectic hustle and bustle of the capital.

Developed in the late 1960s uniting several mediaeval Russian cities located to the north-east of Moscow it is the most popular route around provincial cities of central Russia. More than a thousand year old city of Yaroslavl on the Volga is the largest, but at 260 km from Moscow also the most distant city of the Golden Ring. For only 650 rubles, however, you can take the three-hour train ride there.

Yaroslavl has been part of the world cultural heritage since 2005 and is best known for its two monasteries – the Monastery of our Savior and Transfiguration and the Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Tolga are located directly on the Europe’s longest river Volga and its inflow Kotorosl. Both testify to the long history of the Russian Orthodox Church. The cityscape of Yaroslavl is also really worth seeing with its classicist buildings – walking through the streets of the city with 500,000 inhabitants is a welcome contrast to Moscow. Things are even more slow in the small towns of Suzdal and Vladimir, both of which can still be reached with the Moscow suburban train network (known as Elektrichka) for a good 500 rubles. In both cities time seems to have stood a little – large sacred buildings dominate the cityscape.

Especially the Assumption Cathedral, located in the center of Vladimir, and the Golden Medieval Gate are the main attractions for tourists. The church, built in the early 12th century, is best known for its almost 700 year old wall paintings and frescoes and is a World Heritage Site. The Suzdal Kremlin is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage List and was first mentioned in writing in 1024.

Suzdal with its only 10,000 inhabitants has still retained the character of a small Russian town and in the town, which will celebrate its millennium in 2024, you can still find numerous wooden buildings typical of rural Russia – whether churches or houses, the colorful buildings are ideal as Photo motif and give an impression of the simple Russian provinces life away from the metropolises.

The exhibition of the achievements of the national economies is not in every travel guide as a classic Moscow main attractions and a must see of the Russian capital. But no other place in the modern mega-metropolis exudes the spirit of the Soviet Union as much as the enormous VDNKh (All Russian Exhibition Centre) in the north of Moscow. It was built as an agricultural exhibition before World War II, but was then renamed world exhibition for the 15 individual Soviet states and their achievements.

From the Armenian, Estonian and Kyrgyz culture, to the Soviet achievements in space travel and nuclear power, to statues about the heroes of the Soviet history, the VNDKh (Vystavka Dostizheniy Narodnogo Khozyastva) was an absolute attraction until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. After that, the old charm fell into disrepair and the large central pavilion, which was built in the splendidly pompous Stalinist style, was filled with small traders selling souvenirs and matryoshkas.

Since its renovation in 2014, the exhibition in the park-like area is absolutely worth a trip again and with the metro station of the same name you can get from the center to the VDNKh quickly and without problems. There are still strange souvenirs, plus huge Soviet monuments worth seeing, as well as numerous rides for children. The Kosmos exhibition still exists and is now part of the Cosmonaut Museum, which is located at the front end of the park when coming from the metro station.

Here you can experience the various achievements of Soviet and Russian space travel vividly. From the very first Sputnik satellite, the spacesuit of Yuri Gargarin, the very first human in space, to the Buran space shuttle, you can learn an incredible amount about the conquest of the cosmos here. However, you should plan several hours just for a visit to the Cosmonaut Museum.

More about the cosmonaut museum

The Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery

To complete the cultural program in Moscow, you should definitely make a tour to the Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery when visiting the Russian capital. It is the largest museum of European art and among the Moscow top attractions. The former Museum of Fine Arts was named after Alexander Pushkin’s death in 1837 – it is still one of the most important art collections in the world today.

It boasts one of the richest collections of foreign art in Russia, showcasing global artistic developments from early times to the present day in expositions numbering 700,000 works of art.  Not far south of the Kremlin, exactly opposite the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the Museum is housed in a classic building specially built for this purpose in 1898. From early Byzantine art to the famous Madonna by Lukas Cranach, the Italian masters, Peter Paul Rubens and masterpieces of Expressionism, for example by Paul Cézanne, you can admire a huge selection of important art here.

The regular entry ticket costs 800 rubles and the Ьuseum is open on weekends from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., during the week until 8 p.m. – only Monday is closed.

The second important art collection in the capital is the State Tretyakov Gallery. It is the national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the greatest museums in the world. Started by the textile entrepreneur and philanthropist Pavel Tretyakov as a collection of local contemporary art in 1851, the gallery has now developed into one of the cultural highlights of Russia. In contrast to the Pushkin Museum, you will primarily find Russian art from the 19th century and older icons.

Entry cost is 400 rubles and the Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Monday is also the day off.

Take a stroll across Red Square, meet Lenin and see the world-famous Kremlin?

Then first of all you need a visa! !

Alexander Popov

Welcome to Russia! My name is Alexander, I was born in Moscow and I'm a passionate tour guide. I want to share my passion for Russia and my hometown with you. On my website you will find useful information to make your individual trip to Russia as interesting as possible.

The Museum of Cosmonautics and the Planetarium in Moscow

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