xochimilco night tour

10 Best Xochimilco Tours in Mexico City in 2024

Ready to book your Xochimilco boat tour?

You’ve come to the right article because the Top 10 best Xochimilco Tours in Mexico City are all featured here. As one of the best Mexico City things to do, there are so m any options — but they aren’t all created equal.

🏆 best Xochimilco Tour

Don’t have time to read the whole article? No worries! Xochimilco: Tequila, Mezcal & Fun Tour is your best option.

The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco are a Mexico must see for most visitors — and the safest, most stress-free and best way to visit Xochimilco is on a tour. We’ve hand-picked the highest rated tours here, so all you have to do is book.

Ready for the ultimate Xochimilco guide of the best tours in Xochimilco in Mexico? Let’s get to it so you can get on your way to this truly unique and wonderful Mexico City day trip experience.

Top 3 Picks: Best Xochimilco Tours

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Tequila, Mezcal & Fun Tour ✔️ Axolotl sanctuary visit ✔️ Mezcal and Tequila shots

Private Tour with Frida Kahlo Museum & Coyoacan ✔️ Frida Kahlo Museum Tickets ✔️ Trajinera tour

Floating Gardens of Xochimilco With a Local ✔️ Transportation ✔️ Personalized experience

10 Best Xochimilco Tours in Mexico City

1. xochimilco: tequila, mezcal & fun tour (highest rated xochimilco tour).

⭐️ RATING: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | 🛶 BOOK NOW

The Xochimilco: Tequila, Mezcal & Fun Tour provides guests with an unforgettable experience cruising the canals of Xochimilco while enjoying authentic Mexican drinks, food, and music.

Organized by a group of nine Mexico locals, the tour starts at Embarcadero Cuemanco. Here, guests can try a Michelada before heading out on the water. (Michelada is a Mexican beer with hot sauce, lime and spices).

Once aboard the trajinera Xochimilco, your guide will explain the history of Xochimilco, and allow you to admire its beauty. Next, it’s time to soak up the energy of the locale.

Absolutely the best day!! Such fun, fascinating talks about the area and our guide was a delight! Who knew there was such a beautiful area here? Loved the mezcal and lunch and the places we stopped. Highest recommendation!! —linda (see more  reviews )

First up, you’ll learn how to drink and appreciate mezcal and tequila the Mexican way. There’s no Xochimilco restaurant per so , but snacks and traditional homemade Mexican food with salsa will also be available.

There is a good chance that mariachis and traditional Mexican music groups might join in on the fun. Music, laughter, and dancing are to be expected.

Another perk of the tour is a visit to the Axolotl Xochimilco Sanctuary and other chinampas, or artificial islands, along the way.

The axolotl (pronounced ah-ho-lo-tal) is an animal Xochimilco can claim as its own. They’re found wild nowhere else in the world besides these canals, so the Museo Xochimilco that rescues them is a unique experience.

best xochimilco tours

2. xochimilco private tour with frida kahlo museum & coyoacan.

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | 🛶 BOOK NOW

Mixing nature, sites, and art, this Xochimilco Private Tour is an immersive tour of Aztec history and Mexico City art.

The tour begins at your hotel where a private car picks you up and takes you to the first stop of the day, Xochimilco. You’ll explore Parque Ecológico Xochimilco (Xochimilco Ecological Park) aboard a traditional trajinera boat.

We had a great tour guide who was very knowledgeable. We were able to do a boat ride, museum and walk around and a little shopping as well. —bindu (see more  reviews )

From there, you will continue on to visit the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul Museo Frida Kahlo) and Museo Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum. They are both located in the Coyoacan Mexico City neighborhood.

After enjoying two of the best museums in Mexico City , the last stop is to see the mosaic mural at the UNAM Biblioteca Central Library. This, like Xochimilco, is a Mexico City UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This personalized and private guided Xochimilco Mexico City Mexico tour is the perfect option for anyone wanting to explore two of the most interesting districts in Mexico City — Coyoacan and Xochimilco.

Note: All tours listed have various prices per person. Unless it is noted as a private tour, like this one, you will see a per person price.

3. Floating Gardens of Xochimilco With a Local (Private Tour)

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | 🛶 BOOK NOW

If you want to explore the famous Floating Gardens of Xochimilco, look no further than this Private Xochimilco Tour With a Local .

The best part? This Xochimilco tour is tailored to meet your personal needs and preferences, as it’s a private tour just for you and your guests.

What you get is a custom-crafted private tour with a personalized itinerary so you get to see all the Mexico City sites you want. Want to go off the beaten path around Mexico’s capital city? This is the tour for you!  

Roberto was a fantastic guide. He is extremely knowledgeable and very personable. He made our tour memorable and special! Could not recommend him enough! —will (see more  reviews )

Although the main event is a ride on a trajinera through the Xochimilco Floating Gardens, there are many other things to see in Mexico City — like the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, one of the oldest churches in Mexico City.

You can also visit the Dolores Olmedo Museum for a glimpse into the life of 17th Century Mexican socialite, Dolores Olmedo Patino. Her hacienda-turned-museum houses the largest collection of Frida Kahlo art in Mexico City.

This is one of the best Xochimilco tours Mexico City has to offer for anyone looking to explore the hidden spots of the city in the safest and most convenient way possible.

4. Xochimilco All-Inclusive Tour: Art, Food & Drinks

⭐️ RATING: 4.94 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5.5 hours | 🛶 BOOK NOW

The Xochimilco All-Inclusive Tour is run by two Mexico City locals, Oscar and Gaby, who were both born and raised in Xochimilco. It is perfect for visitors looking for a little bit of everything.

Your day begins with a visit to Mercado de Xochimilco, a vibrant local Mexico City market. This large downtown Xochimilco market is technically two mercados in one, so you can shop for souvenirs and eat some food.

Xochitl Zona is the main market. Here, you’ll be able to purchase several things, including local traditional Xochimilco Mexican food like banana-leaf tamales , or tlacoyos , one of the best Mexico City street foods. 

Day that exceeded all our expectations! The kindness of Oscar and his wife, Ana, and all their knowledge of the history of the places where they took us made this experience simply fantastic! …Thanks for everything, we would highly recommend this experience!👌 —pedro (see more  reviews )

Just across the street, there’s the Mercado de Flores (Flower Market), though it has more than just Xochimilco flowers. Now, if you do want a flower crown to wear in your Xochimilco photos, this is the place to get it.

Besides flowers, you can sample chileatole, a Mexican corn soup you won’t find many places outside of Xochimilco, aguas frescas (fruit water), and more. Note: Make sure to have some spare pesos on you to pay at any local mercado.

After the market, you’ll head to the Xochimilco Pier and board a trajinera. These are the colorful Xochimilco boats, which are similar to an Italian gondola, but much brighter!

On the ride, you’ll explore the canals, listen to music, eat typical Mexican food and try some Mexican beers . You’ll also get a history lesson about the region and its cultural relevance in Mexico. 

This is the perfect tour to experience a little more of what Xochimilco has to offer. It takes you into other parts of this unique Mexico City neighborhood with two locals, so you can go beyond the canals.

5. Mexican Fiesta: Xochimilco Party Boat Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.99 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | 🛶 BOOK NOW

Are you ready for an authentic Mexican Fiesta at Xochimilco ?! This top-rated experience is all about eating, drinking, having a great time in Xochimilco… and more drinking. 

The tour starts on a trajinera boat in Xochimilco, where the music and drinks are flowing. On this tour, unlimited beverages are provided to ensure that you have a great time — it’s basically an open bar, so go nuts!

After a couple of drinks, your guide will show you how to prepare authentic Mexican guacamole 🥑 which you’ll enjoy with other traditional Mexican snacks. 

Such an incredible time. MJ and Isaac were great and accommodating hosts. There was unlimited drinks and the food was delicious. Very well thought out and nicely done experience. Would recommend it to anyone! —justin (see more  reviews )

Make sure to bring some pesos with you! Boats with vendors and entertainment, like the famous mariachis Xochimilco has, will stop at your boat. They sell food and mariachis songs, which is part of what makes Xochimilco fun.

Throughout the boat ride, the guide will share information about the unique and historic region in Mexico City.

A stop at the Lake Xochimilco Axolotl Sanctuary is also possible, if time and weather permit. At the end of the trip, you’ll visit a local craft market where you can buy some locally-made souvenirs.

If you’re ready to party, don’t miss out on this Xochimilco boat tour Mexico City experience.

6. Xochimilco Canals Adventure: Gastronomy, Micheladas & More

⭐️ RATING: 4.96 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours| 🛶 BOOK NOW

For an interactive tour filled with activities, food, drinks, and even a workshop, book the Xochimilco Canals Adventure . The guides are Mexico City locals who have spent more than 20 years exploring these beautiful canals.

The adventure begins on a trajinera. As you board this colorful boat, you’ll receive a welcome gift. During the ride, you’ll play fun Mexican games, like La Loteria , and eat traditional Mexican foods.

This tour was great! The guides brought cute games and had a lot of knowledge to share! The drinks and food were great and aplenty. Would definitely recommend! —haley (see more  reviews )

There’s also an on-board participation in a workshop where you will make your own Michelada cocktails. Ingredients that you can add include lemon juice, spices like Tajin , hot sauces, and even gusano worms .

The guides will also take you to many of the chinampas, or beautiful artificial islands, where you can drink pulque (AKA “the drink of the gods”) and take some incredible photos of Xochimilco.

This is one of those Xochimilco Mexico City tours that’s perfect if you want to visit the more off the beaten path spots in Xochimilco. Anyone looking for fun, food, drinks, and a local guide, this is the tour for you!

7. Two Day Tour: Xochimilco, Frida Museum, Teotihuacan, Coyoacan & More

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 days | 🛶 BOOK NOW

There are some places where one day is just not enough time to experience everything. As one of the largest cities on Earth, Mexico City is absolutely one of those places.

Thankfully, there are tours like this Two Day Mexico City Tour that can help you explore the city’s art, culture, cuisine, and history⁠ — and all in just 48 hours! 

Leonardo was our guide for both days. He is such a smart, funny individual that made our trip even more worthwhile. His knowledge of the history is admired. Both days were exceptionally great. [We] fell in love with CDMX. —Isa (see more  reviews )

During these two days, you’ll experience ancient history at Teotihuacan Ruins and Tlatelolco Ruins. Teotihuacan has some of the best pyramids in Mexico , and you can actually climb them.

You’ll also visit Xochimilco canals, explore the Basílica de Guadalupe Shrine , one of the best Mexico City churches, and take a tour through the Frida Kahlo Museum to see and learn about art in the Coyoacan neighborhood.

This is one of the best Xochimilco tours for any first-time visitors to Mexico City looking to see and experience everything that it offers.  Note: Meals are not included in this tour.

8. Visit the Xochimilco Island of the Dolls

⭐️ RATING: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4.5 hours | 🛶 BOOK NOW

Are you looking for a spooky yet unique Xochimilco Mexico City boats experience? Then you have to add this Visit to the Island of the Dolls in Mexico City to your itinerary.

The Xochimilco Isla de las Muñecas, or Island of the Dolls, is home to thousands of decaying dolls. The dolls are quite creepy themselves, but this haunted island also has a dark and mysterious past.

Legend has it that in the 1950s, Julian Santana Barrera found the body of a young girl who had drowned. After finding her body, he claimed that her spirit haunted him.

He started to collect dolls to protect himself from her spirit, and eventually, collected more than 1,000 Xochimilco dolls. Strangely enough, Julian died in 2001 of a heart attack — in the same spot where he found the girl’s body.

This is one of the most unique things I’ve ever done in my life. I seriously cannot recommend this experience enough — if you’re in Mexico City you need to book this now!!!! …The boat ride back by candlelight is nothing less than magical. —Danielle (see more  reviews )

This is a tour like no other, and it starts in the late afternoon. You’ll embark on a trajinera and explore the canals for about an hour before heading to the island. There, you will explore on foot and take pictures, if you dare. 

Once the sun sets and darkness starts to take over, it’s time to leave Xochimilco Dolls Island.

This is a one-in-life-time type of experience — but it is not for the faint of heart.  The Xochimilco muñecas (dolls) are some of the scariest you’ll encounter, but this is the best tour if you want to explore Xochimilco at night.

9. Chinampas: Tour the Xochimilco Canals by Boat

⭐️ RATING: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours | 🛶 BOOK NOW

A classic tour of Mexico Xochimilco and the man-made islands of the region, this Chinampas: Tour the Xochimilco Canals by Boat is a unique and wonderful experience that shouldn’t be missed. 

This tour is all about exploring the best of what Xochimilco DF offers, including some of its best-kept secrets. If you want to see the real side of Xochimilco (not the party side), you have to do a Chinampas Tour.

This was truly one of the highlights of our trip to Mexico City. It is simply unlike anywhere else on earth, with so much history and community… Worth every penny! —amber (see more  reviews )

You’ll explore the chinampas (Xochimilco islands used for farming) and taste several morels of delicious traditional Mexican cuisine favorites, as you explore each floating garden.

🌺💀🌺 Visiting during Mexico City Day of the Dead ?

Then don’t miss seeing this region during the Xochimilco Día de Muertos celebrations. The hosts will provide a special experience to celebrate and honor the souls who have passed away during this seasonal tour.

10. Xochimilco, Coyoacan, Stadium & UNAM Campus Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | 🛶 BOOK NOW

For an action packed, multi-stop tour experience, this full-day Xochimilco, Coyoacan & UNAM Campus Tour will take you to all of the most popular neighbourhoods in Mexico City.

This is one of those Xochimilco tours that is perfect for anyone who’s short on time — but also wants to explore the main tourist spots in Mexico City with a local guide.

One of our most interesting days! The tour guides Sergio and Aaron were fantastic! Fun, culture, laughs, food and drinks! Highly recommended!!! —Rod (see more  reviews )

During the tour you’ll be able to take in the beauty of the murals at UNAM Ciudad Universitaria (AKA the National Autonomous University of Mexico). The UNAM campus is a Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a must-see.

You’ll also take a picture inside the Estadio Azteca, the famous Mexico City stadium, visit the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco and explore the boho artsy neighbourhood of Coyoacan .

Please Read: Why I Don’t Recommend Going to Xochimilco on Your Own

🗣️ A note from Shelley , the site owner: As someone who runs several Mexico websites, has lived in Mexico since 2018, and loves Mexico dearly , I hate to say this, but please don’t visit Xochimilco on your own .

Sadly, tourism scams have become more common as Xochimilco has become more popular. For this reason, I whole-heartedly recommend you take a Xochimilco tour, so you don’t fall victim to Xochimilco tourist scams.

Don’t believe me? Check out this video from the popular YouTubers, The Country Collectors. These are savvy, professional travelers, and even they got scammed in Xochimilco when they went on their own.

🏆 Here are my top Xochimilco tours:

• 🎉 Best party cruise: Xochimilco: Tequila, Mezcal & Fun
• ⭐️ Best Xochimilco private tour: Xochimilco Private Tour
• 🇲🇽 Best cultural experience: Chinampas Tour of Xochimilco
• 👻 Best for off the beaten path travelers: Xochimilco Island of the Dolls

While it seems like it costs less to go on your own, it might end up costing double what you think it will if you’re scammed. With a Xochimilco tour, you know what you’re paying — and you’re just plain safer doing it this way.

Also, a fun day can become a headache quickly if you don’t speak Spanish. Some boat operators will take advantage of you for not knowing the going rates, or as soon as they realize you don’t speak in Spanish; sad but true.

Booking a private tour avoids this issue (and many others), and is the safest way to visit Xochimilco. Still want to visit on your own? You’ve been warned , but you can head here for more info on how to do so.

Xochimilco Guide & Frequently Asked Questions

What is Xochimilco?

Xochimilco is a popular tourist spot and borough located in the southern part of Mexico City. Xochimilco history dates back to pre-Hispanic times. Originally, there were five lakes within the Valley of Mexico, including Lake Xochimilco.

Today, only the Xochimilco canals remain as part of the Xochimilco park and plant market. As a result of these canals, the neighborhood is also known as the Venice of Mexico.

There is no Xochimilco Mexican town, just this neighborhood in Mexico City with a really fun vibe.

The Xochimilco meaning comes from two Aztec Nahuatl words, xochitl and mili , which means “where the flowers grow.”

The region is famous for its floating gardens. Also known as chinampas, they have been around since pre-Hispanic times. These gardens are one reason Xochimiclo was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Wondering what to do in Xochimilco?

One of the most popular things is riding in a trajinera, which are the beautiful colored gondola-style boats. These boats take you down Xochimilco River while you enjoy music, drinks, nature and food.

The Xochimilco atmosphere is filled with laughter, music, and fun⁠, and makes for an unforgettable experience. If you do come, take some time to also visit the Mercado Xochimilco, the local market in Xochimilco.

Where is Xochimilco located?

Xochimilco México is a borough of Mexico City located in the southeastern part of the city. You can find it on Google Maps here , or use the map below for a visual.

🗺️ Xochimilco Map

🚗💨 How far is Xochimilco from Mexico City?

It is about 15-miles (25 km) from the Zócalo, which is the Historic Center of Mexico City . You can get there by rental car , taxi, Uber or public transport.

How much is an Uber from Mexico City to Xochmilco? 

Uber pricing is dynamic, so it can vary. Normally, an Uber ride should cost about $185 MXN pesos ($9 USD) , however, you might pay up to $400 MXN pesos ($20 USD) during peak hours.

Before you plan your visit, make sure you Google Is Xochimilco open? Typically the Xochimilco hours are 9am to 6pm daily. However, holidays or special events may change those.

What are trajineras?

Xochimilco trajineras (pronounced trah-he-nare-uhs) are brightly colored, flat-bottomed wooden boats that famously take travelers through the many canals in Xochimilco.

Each boat has a unique name, and can carry as many as 20 people. There are also bigger boats, called lanchas colectivas , that can fit as many as 60 people onboard.

These two types of boats are the only way tourists can enjoy Xochimilco. You may see the occasional local resident who will kayak Xochimilco, but these aren’t available to visitors.

The word trajineras comes from the Spanish verb “trajinar,” which means to carry food from one side to another. This was what the Xochimilco trajineras were initially used for.

However, they are now mostly used as party boats to tour the area. Still, the trajinera boats are a unique thing to do in Xochimilco, and something you won’t want to miss.

Do you need reservations for Xochimilco?

The trip to Xochimilco can be made without booking a tour — but we don’t advise it — and you can see why here .

However, if you want a more interactive tour that is more than just the one-hour, basic Xochimilco boat ride through the central canal, book an experience with any of the tours Xochimilco Mexico listed above.

Is it worth going to Xochimilco?

Yes — It is definitely worth going to Xochimilco, one of the  best things to do in Mexico City .

It is a unique region home to incredible beauty and amazing sights. Going on trajineras, visiting the floating gardens, buying food from local vendors, and enjoying mariachi music make for an unforgettable experience.

Can you visit Xochimilco on your own?

Yes, you can visit Xochimilco CDMX Mexico on your own — but we don’t advise it — and you can see why here .

If you still want to risk it, don’t mind some prep work and have patience, it is certainly possible to visit on your own. Let’s answer some questions about how to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City, the DIY way.

🚦 How to Get to Xochimilco Mexico City on your own

To get to Mexico City Xochimilco by public transport, you must take Mexico City Metro Line 2 (the Blue Line) to the end of Tasqueña Station.

Next, take the Tren Ligero to the Xochimilco Metro stop, which is the last station. 🚊 Note: Tren Ligero does not accept Metro tickets, so make sure to buy a CDMX reloadable card that you can use for the trip.

From the Xochimilco stop on the Metro, you can walk, call an Uber or take a taxi to the Xochimilco Embarcadero.

This is the boat dock, but might not be where you need to go if you’re meeting someone at another prearranged place.

If you need more info on how to get to Xochimilco Mexico City, look up the Lake Xochimilco maps area on your navigation app. Xochimilco is a large area, and you want the lake area specifically.

Also, make sure to confirm your route with the Metro station or train attendant before starting the journey.

Don’t be that person who’s wishing you would have Googled “Xochimilco how to get there” before you began the trip!

How much time do you need in Xochimilco?

Xochimilco is a popular day trips type of destination. In fact, it’s one of the best Mexico City day trips and best Mexico City things to do, as it’s technically within city limits, but ends up being a full day excursion.

To even get there from Downtown Mexico City, and back, plan for about two hours of travel time. Tours at Xochimilco range from 1-5 hours, so this usually ends up being a full day.

📆 What’s the best time to visit Xochimilco?

If you like to party, the best days to visit are during the weekends or major Mexico holidays .

Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest days at Xochimilco, filled with food vendors, mariachi bands and the largest floating party you’ve ever seen. 

For a more tranquil and culturally-focused experience, this Chinampas Tour of Xochimilco is the best way to visit Xochimilco. If you don’t like crowds, loud music and lots of drunk people, this is the way to go.

Is Xochimilco a tourist trap?

It can be seen as a tourist trap if you just do one of the basic tours on the main canal. However, if you book an exciting tour with a local guide, the experience will be memorable.

Any of the Xochimilco tour Mexico city options listed in this article are great choices. We don’t recommend any of the generic hour-long Xochimilco canal tours that only transit along the main canal.

Instead, we have highlighted interesting and exciting tours that go off the beaten path, like Xochimilco: Tequila, Mezcal & Fun Tour , our top choice for party people.

For a unique experience, check out the Xochimilco Island of the Dolls Tour , and this Chinampas Tour of Xochimilco Canals which I did and really enjoyed.

What is the Xochimilco weather like? 

Xochimiclo has a warm tropical climate in summer, and a springtime climate in the rest of the year. The best time to visit the region is from late-October to mid-April. 

Xochimilco has both a wet and dry season. The wet season, from about May to September is muggy, hot and mostly cloudy, and being in the summer, the temperatures are warm.

The hottest month to visit Xochimilco is May, and the rainiest is September.

What should I wear to Xochimilco?

You should avoid short dresses and flimsy shoes, as you’ll be climbing in and out of boats.

A long dress, midi-length sundress, flowy pants and sturdy but comfortable shoes are recommended. If you visit Mexico in the summertime, remember to bring lots of sunscreen , sunglasses and a hat.

How much is a mariachi at Xochimilco?

One song usually costs about $200 pesos ($10 USD), and three songs should run you $500 pesos ($25 USD) — quite the bargain for a personal, live concert from talented musicians.

Though it will cost you a few pesos, one of the best things to do at Xochimilco is request music from mariachi bands, so don’t miss this opportunity!

Make sure you have some spare money in your pocket to pay for the songs though, because the mariachi don’t take credit cards.

Is Xochimilco safe?

Although Xochimilco is far from the Downtown Mexico City Center , it is an easy and safe trip for the vast majority of visitors. Note: The safest way to visit is on a tour; see why here .

It is definitely considered safe to explore during the day time, however, you’ll want to take precautions at night (and even visit with a local, if you know one).

For those doing Mexico City solo travel , most people will tell you Xochimilco should not be explored during the nighttime unless you’re meeting a local or some friends when you get there.

Brief History of the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco

Is Xochimilco a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Yes — Xochimilco UNESCO was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987 due to the preservation of ancient Mesoamerican construction techniques and the region’s historical importance.

What is the correct Xochimilco pronunciation?

Wondering, just how is Xochimilco pronounced? It comes from an Aztec word in their Nahuatl language, and is pronounced so-chee-mill-co .

Usually in Spanish the X, as in Xochimilco, is often replaced by a Spanish J sound. This is pronounced like an H in English, not a J.

For this reason, you might hear the name Xochimilco pronounced as ho-chee-mill-co — but this is not a Spanish word, it’s an Aztec word, so that would be incorrect. 

What is Xochimilco famous for?

Xochimilco is famous for its canals and trajineras , or gondola boats. However, the shining stars are the Xochimilco chinampas, or floating gardens .

These man-made islands were created in pre-Hispanic times as a way for farmers to grow crops on plots of land they built in the lake.

The floating gardens of Xochimilco Mexico City are incredibly unique things to see and experience.

What are chinampas?

Chinampas (pronounced chin-amm-pas) are the floating Xochimilco gardens. They were used in pre-Hispanic times by the Aztecs to grow crops on shallow lake beds.

Today, the chinampas Xochimilco are one of the few remaining examples of this tradition still in existence today. Chefs from some of the best restaurants in Mexico City even buy crops from these farmers.

🤔 How were the chinampas made?

Centuries ago, the Aztecs sunk cane frames into the shallow lake bed. They then filled those up with sediment, vegetables, and mud to create the man-made islands of Xochimilco.

Who built Xochimilco canals?

The Aztecs built the canals and chinampas (floating gardens of Xochimilco) during pre-Hispanic times.

The Xochimilco CDMX we know today is part of Mexico City. The area around the canals was built by the Spanish Conquistadors on the ruins of the old Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan.

Final Thoughts: Best Xochimilco Tours in Mexico City

We’ve reached the end of a very comprehensive guide to Xochimilco Mexico City — which includes historical info and all the best tours to Xochimilco. I hope it was useful in figuring out the best way to visit Xochimilco.

In case you skipped to the end (we all do it sometimes!) here are my top Xochimilco tours, with options for every kind of traveler:

• 🇲🇽 Best cultural experience: Chinampas Tour of Xochimilco Canals
• 👻 Best off the beaten path tour: Xochimilco Island of the Dolls

🇲🇽 Best Mexico City Tours

Looking to take some more tours in Mexico City?

As one of the biggest cities in the world, tours are so convenient because you don’t have to worry about planning anything — you just show up and enjoy!

Here are all of my recommendations for CDMX tours:

• Best Mexico City food tours
• Best Mexico City taco tours
• Best Mexico City lucha libre tours
• Best Mexico City mezcal tours
• Best Teotihuacan hot air balloon tours
• Best Grutas de Tolantongo tours
• Best Teotihuacan tours

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

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.

Similar Posts

29 Most Famous Landmarks In Mexico City

Whether your holiday is scheduled to last three days or a whole week, there are enough iconic landmarks in…

There is a few good beaches near Mexico City to visit for a weekend. Given how good the weather…

Mexico City To Oaxaca: 5 best ways to travel + Tips & Prices

Mexico City and Oaxaca are two of the best places to visit in all of Mexico. While Mexico City…

Searching for the best Mexico City walking tours for your trip? We have collated the best 9 walking tours…

11 Best Teotihuacan Tours From Mexico City

Are you thinking of booking Teotihuacan tours from Mexico City but have no idea which tour is best for…

If you’re looking for a guide to help you discover the best museums in Mexico City, you’ve come to…

Join Culinary Backstreets

• Repeat Password *
• Receive the latest Stories
• Security check *
• Send these credentials via email.

Already a member? Log in .

Log in to Culinary Backstreets

Username or Email

Remember Me

Not a member? Sign up !

COVID-19: Visiting the Backstreets, Safely and Sustainably

• New Orleans

• Los Angeles
• Mexico City
• San Sebastián
• CB Passport

Explore our Food Tours →

MEXICO CITY

• Meet the Team
• Buy the Book

Mexico City Food Tour

Xochimilco Farm Feast: Exploring the Urban Oasis’s Canals and Gardens

AS FEATURED IN

On this full-day tour of Xochimilco, for private groups of seven or more, we will have exclusive access by private boat to family farms, meet the people upholding ancient agricultural traditions and enjoy a rustic feast in a field surrounded by canals and family gardens. The day begins with breakfast, ends with a big lunch and includes snacks along the way.

On this Xochimilco tour, for private groups of seven or more, we’ll explore how this UNESCO heritage site remains relevant to modern Mexico City — as a place for a pleasure cruise to some and a vital agricultural resource to others. We’ll cruise by boat well beyond the tourist zone and into agricultural areas, to learn more about its culture and food and meet the people who maintain its one-of-a-kind agricultural system, called chinampas, which are island plots of farmland between the canals. In a verdant field, surrounded by productive farms edged by tight canals, we will be hosted for a feast to remember by a local farming family.

Our day-long tour starts with coffee and pastries in central Mexico City, before departing by private van for the eco-reserve of Xochimilco. There we will avoid the central canal clogged with touristic boats and head deeper into the reserve where small farms are still being cultivated in ingenious and sustainable ways that have remained unchanged since pre-Columbian times. We’ll follow the cultivation process in a series of visits to different gardens – from the nursery where the soil is laid out and scored in a perfect grid and seeds are planted by hand to the field where young plants grow to maturity. In between stops, we’ll sample fresh produce as we cruise through this unique natural environment. Finally we will arrive at our last stop, a large farm on a tiny canal, where our farmer/host, Juanito, will show us what’s growing in season before we settle in for a multi-course rustic lunch prepared with just picked local produce. Expect flavorful mushroom stew, roast pork, squash, beans, rice and of course, freshly made tortillas. This will be a day in the life of an agricultural and cultural treasure of Mexico City, as few are able to experience it.

Reserve your spot

We have received your request correctly.

You will receive an email with a summary of your bookings.

Can't find it? Leave us your email and we'll send you a summary of your bookings.

Share it straight to social media with your campaign ID and name

Coyoacán & Xochimilco Tour

• 8.40 / 10 39 reviews | 1,035 travellers Excellent experience and the driver was very friendly explaining the route 10 Rubén Darío
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts
• Hotel pick up

Discover the legacy of Frida Kahlo in the historic neighborhood of Coyoacán  and go on a traditional trajinera ride in Xochimilco on this tour of Mexico City.

Coyoacán & Xochimilco Tour

Between 8:30 and 9 am, we'll pick you up at your hotel in Mexico City. We'll start our panoramic tour in Roma , one of the most famous areas of the city due to its large number of restaurants, museums, galleries, parks, and shops.

We'll continue to visit the Condesa , where we'll see wide avenues lined with trees and majestic mansions. We'll then head to the Plaza Mexico or Plaza de Toros, the largest bullring in Mexico, located in the Ciudad de los Deportes. It seats more than 40,000 people and is used exclusively for bullfighting events and concerts.

Then, we'll head to the Coyoacán area to visit the  Church of San Juan Bautista  and the iconic fountain of the Coyotes , followed by a stroll through the picturesque cobblestone streets of this neighborhood. The tour will continue next to the  Frida Kahlo House-Museum , better known as La Casa Azul , where we'll admire the exterior of this strikingly colorful home and discuss the legacy of one of the most famous Mexican painters of all time.

Next, we'll head to the Ciudad Universitaria , the university area of Mexico City. There, we'll check out the Rectorate Tower and the Central Library , where we'll admire a mural painted by Juan O'Gorman. We'll also see the mural of the Olympic University Stadium , painted by Diego Rivera.

From the university area, we'll return to your hotel in Mexico City, where we'll arrive at 2 pm.

This tour only includes pickup from hotels located in the following tourist areas of Mexico City: the historic center , Polanco , and Zona Rosa . If your hotel is not in these areas, we'll meet you instead at the Hotel Emporio Reforma .

More Information

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English and Spanish.

Hotel pickup and return transfer

Transport by bus

English speaking guide

Trajinera cruise

Not included

Food and drink

When to book?

You can book up until 24 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Accessible only for folding chairs. Accessible toilets. Free wheelchair loan service available. An accompanying person is required. This must be indicated in the reservation.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

Omextur Tour Operador Dmc Show more

Corporate name: Jose Julian Arroyo Corvera

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

National Auditorium

You may also be interested in

Teotihuacán Hot Air Balloon Ride + Tickets

Teotihuacán, Guadalupe Basílica and Tlatelolco Day Trip

Coyoacán, Xochimilco and the Frida Kahlo Museum

Login to add activities to your favorites and access them from any device

This site is reCAPTCHA protected and Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Log in to rate the opinions of other travelers

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!

Buy Me A Beer!

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

Share this:

One thought on “ the complete guide to visiting xochimilco | mexico city ”.

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!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from the partying traveler.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

• Tours & Excursions /

Xoximilco Tour

A mexican party.

Overall rating: ( 23 Reviews )

Description

Xoximilco is a magical place with an ambiance of party, music and tradition that captures the imagination of everyone who visits by conjuring up memories of Mexico in its golden age.

Decorated with motifs from the 32 States of Mexico, the famous trajineras, a kind of boat that were once used for transporting flowers, fruits and vegetables grown in floating gardens, have become a means of transportation and a cause of joy for all those who come to Xoximilco searching for a unique moment they can only experience here in Cancun, in a modern version of the legendary cruise through the canals, with the colors and the charm of those magical moments we hold dear. Xochimilco, which in nahuatl means "Field of flowers", is defined by a series of water canals that existed since pre-Hispanic times when lakes and lagoons made up almost the entire Valley of Mexico and disappeared with the passing of time. Xoximilco emerges in Cancun as a tribute to the beauty and grandeur of this member of the Cultural Heritage for Humanity list; where you will be able to experience the traditions of central Mexico in a Caribbean Paradise. Under a star-filled sky and with tropical weather, on board a picturesque trajinera decorated with the elements from each state, you will travel through time in a true Mexican fiesta with live music, gastronomy and flowers.

What's included

• Round trip transportation from your hotel
• A nighttime cruise on board a trajinera
• Dinner with the best of Mexican cuisine
• Open bar with tequila, beer, fruit flavored beverages and sodas
• Different ensembles playing traditional live music such as: mariachi, bolero trio, jarocho quartet and marimba.
• Open Monday to Saturday from 6:00 to 11:00 p.m.
• Access at 7:15 p.m.
• Approximate duration: 3 hours

What to bring:

• Wear comfortable clothes
• Cash for souvenirs

Additional information

• The minimum age to enjoy Xoximilco is 5 years old. Children between 5 to 11 years old pay child price.
• Xoximilco is located 5 minutes from Cancun International Airport and 35 minutes from Playa del Carmen

Pick-up Information:

• Pick-up is available for hotels located in Cancun and Riviera Maya from Monday to Saturday. Your pick-up schedule will be sent by email after booking.
• In case we don't have pick-up service for a specific hotel or location, you will be asked to meet us at the nearest meeting point available.

Book this tour

Select a tour option, select participants, select a date, pick me up at:.

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

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

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!

Related Stories

Mexico City on a Budget: Guide + All my Best Tips

Discovering Mexican Muralism: My Mexico City Tour Experience

Coyoacán (Mexico City): 20 Best Things to see and visit

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Website (optional)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• All our Guides about Mexico

Xoximilco Tour Night Cruise from Cancun & Riviera Maya

• Pickup and drop-off (Cancun & Riviera Maya)
• Boat ride (trajinera)
• Mexican dishes (multiple samples)
• Bilingual guide
• Games, contests and party on board
• Open mexican bar
• Entry/Admission - Xoximilco Cancun by Xcaret
• Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
• Meeting points for travelers that are in downtown hotels and airbnb's or any location that we can't reach: Cancun Meeting Point: Wyndham Garden Cancun Playa Del Carmen: Plaza Antigua or Plaza Las Perlas (contact customer care for support) Tulum: There is no pick up in any hotel or airbnb, the meeting point will be at the Hotel Aloft Tulum The pick up time is set according to your location, the travelers that doesn't provide pick up location will need to get in contact with us as soon as possible, otherwise we will be not be able to provide the service
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Minimum age is 5 years old
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• Kids are required to show ID
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Xoximilco Cancun by Xcaret

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Xoximilco Cancun by Xcaret Stop: 3 hours - Admission included Live the joy of the Mexican culture, customs and traditions through music, dance, games and food in an excursion on board colorful Mexican Gondolas across unique scenery from Mexico accompanied by family, friends and an animated host. Enjoy this magic place that pays tribute to the World Heritage Site at Mexico City. At Xoximilco the party is for everyone. Family, friends, couples or alone, the mood is set for everyone who wants to spend a great night. To accomplish this, we make sure that according to the sort of party you want to experience you will be accompanied by people who want to have the same kind of fun as you. It doesn’t matter if your party plan is casual, with couples or family, Xoximilco Cancun always has the right mood for you to enjoy it to the fullest. Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• 65louisa 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles It’s pure magic. I fell in love with Bacalar Don’t hesitate, it’s incredible. Stay for at least two nights and make sure to book a boat tour and eat at Nixtamal. Hotel MBH just north of town is a great option Read more Written March 25, 2024
• Inspire46485423712 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Not worth the price… take the ferry! We decided to take the catamaran to isla mujeres because it left very close to our resort. Once we were on the boat they said you couldn’t wear/ use sunscreen. They also didn’t offer bottled water. While on the boat they advised everyone against snorkelling. They said it was an 8KM snorkelling excursion. We were not told this upon booking. We thought it was a leisurely beginner snorkelling excursion. Since most people voted against going we didn’t go. We instead just swam at the beach by the island. Which you could do without taking this trip/ paying the price. It took about 30 minutes to dock the boat. My partner and I both go a sunburn during this time. As there was little to no shade on the boat. After docking we had 90 minutes at a buffet on the island. The food was pretty bad and most drinks were an up sell. There wasn’t much to do on the island, unless you wanted to rent a golf cart. Be careful as people on the island pretend to know you from your resort to try to sell you things. Would have been nice for the tour guide to warn us about this like this. Overall I’d say this isn’t a full day excursion. It’s much better just to take the ferry. The ferry is faster. They have clean washrooms, more comfortable seating, shade and it’s more economical. Also the ferry is less crowded. Read more Written January 12, 2024
• nhlibra85 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent we absolutely recommend it!! Me and my husband had so much fun and loved it! The environment was beautiful. The music & the food was wonderful. We had a lovely night & would definitely come back. We recommend it!! Read more Written November 20, 2023
• E5784HTjuliep 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Big sales pitch The trip was OK, it seemed like a big sales pitch the whole time. This was my 2nd time doing this tour. I toured with another company 7 years ago it was fun and I wanted to share with my family, but at every turn they wanted us to buy things from their preferred vendors or sale us something. Read more Written November 13, 2023
• colton2112 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles not bad but? Staff was good but snorkeling was hurried and chaotic. The taxi ride was good and seeing the temple was great. Isla Mujeres is crowded and you are constantly hit with sales pitches. The buffet was not bad and the staff was friendly. The music is a bit to loud on the ship. Read more Written August 22, 2023
• Charmaine F 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles It was okay It was a good experience for a first timer. I have been on catamaran tours before and they were much more lively then this was. It came with a buffet lunch but the food was quite bland an mediocre. I was expecting more Mexican dishes. Also, the drinks were a bit weak but you cant expect much from an open bar. All in all, the crew was great and they had great hospitality. Read more Written August 7, 2023
• Beth G 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unforgettable Very nice tour guides, my partner and I had an amazing experience. I would definitely recommend this to family members. Read more Written July 22, 2023
• Adamant4u 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Day trip to Chichen Itza and Cenote Very well managed. Clear and concise in information. Able to adapt to English and Spanish clearly. Maintained professionalism Read more Written July 3, 2023
• dlewis225 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Absolutely amazing!!! As a first time tourist of Cancun, this was definitely a great experience! The staff was beyond helpful and very friendly! It was really nice to just book and have the details taken care of by them. And the drinks were awesome!!! Read more Written June 27, 2023
• dinop885 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Cenotes and Ruins Were Great, Other Aspects Not So Much. Here are the negatives: van was 45 minutes late, van was small and cramped. We were seated at the back of the van and were generally uncomfortable. Our first stop was an art installation, which was cool, but completely unnecessary. It was just an Instagram photo op. Finally, lunch and dinner were included, but not good, and “dinner” was served at 2:30. The positives: the ruins at Tulum were beautiful and interesting. The Casa Tortuga cenotes were amazing. Your guide helped you through each cenote, there were lifeguards and paramedics on site. You can jump off a high platform into the two open cenotes, which my family loved. Both tour guides were wonderful and spoke English well and the coconut ice cream at Andrea’s was exceptional. Read more Written June 22, 2023
• samanthar0land 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lo mejor de Tulum! Our guide, Jenner, was awesome! I was travelling alone so he offered to take my pictures at the Tulum sign. All of them came out really nice! He was very patient with making sure we were fully ready to get back on the bus for the next adventure and offered to allow us to charge our phones. I love that we stopped at Playa Paraiso because although I stayed in Tulum, I wouldn't have visited on my own. My only critic is that there are nicer and closer Cenotes to Tulum we couldn't went. But since, you have to drive down to Tulum from Coba (where the Cenotes were) to go back up to Cancun, it all worked out. I met amazing people and I definitely had fun! The breakfast lunchbox was a nice added touch that is not often included in tours! The itinerary was well built, it definitely made me want to return to Laguna Kaan Loom in the future! Read more Written April 18, 2023
• Snydermie 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Good Had a great time but was expecting to go snorkeling and didn’t include that as was stated. But had fun still Read more Written April 17, 2023
• victorpG340VY 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Refunds are not processed correctly Cozumel trip was cancelled in advance, but they didn't proceed with the refund as agreed. They stopped responding to emails. Read more Written March 30, 2023
• coryt539 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great staff. But ends there. Exceptional staffers on board. Great time, The snorkeling was weird. No fins for the swim which was them dropping you off and you swimming back to the boat. Only do it if your a really strong swimmer. The stops were fine, Isla Mujeres seems to just be a tourist trap, unless you had time to actually get to some ruins. Which you don’t on this excursion. The staff made the day! But this could be so much better. Read more Written February 25, 2023
• 633jakes 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Must do Fantastic Day / Tour with Rachelle and Jorge (and photographer Guilme. Fun, adventures and educational. Rachelle is the best. Very professional, fun, knowledgeable and caring to ALL of her clients. Read more Written February 20, 2023

More to explore in Cancun

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Buy it with

Xoximilco Tour Night Cruise from Cancun & Riviera Maya provided by Altus Tours

Xochimilco Mexico City: How to get there and take a boat tour [2023]

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article.

Famous for colorful, flower-decked boats 🚣🏻‍♀️ floating down the narrow waterways, Xochimilco Mexico City has become one of the most popular places to visit in the country’s capital with many tourists making a stop here. 

While Xochimilco’s Trajineras (the name of the colorful boats) grace many tourist guides and booklets, not many tourists know that Xochimilco is also the name of the surrounding area. In this article, I’m going to tell you all the reasons why you should visit this place.

👉 Spending a few days in Mexico City? Read my complete guide to best hotels in Mexico City to help you choose your accommodations 🏠

Is Xochimilco worth visiting?

Xochimilco aka the Venice of Mexico City is one of the best cultural experiences in the country’s capital. Whether you are looking to party or learn more about the history of Mexico City and the role that Xochimilco canals played in the Aztec Empire, this place is a great stop on your Mexico City itinerary 🗺

While Xochimilco is known for its party atmosphere as you can buy food and drinks and even hire a Mariachi band to perform a mini-concert for you, it is also a wonderful cultural experience.

Regardless of what you might have heard, Xochimilco is not just about partying and drinking . 

This guide will cover all aspects of visiting Xochimilco, including how to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City, the best Xochimilco tours 🎒and what mistakes to avoid when visiting Xochimilco. 

✅ Check the best hot air balloon tours in Mexico City

How much does a trajinera boat cost in Xochimilco?

The hourly cost of a boat ride in Xochimilco is between 350-500 Mexican Pesos 💰 for one hour for the entire boat. This price depends on the time of the year (low season or high season), and the day of the week. Since weekends tend to be busy with many locals coming here, it’s better to visit on a weekday.

👉 Remember that you need to pay in cash!

Xochimilco hours

The Xochimilco trajineras run between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ⏰ Most visitors spend about 2-3 hours in Xochimilco touring the canals and stopping at various points of interest. ✔️

Plan 2-4 hours for your trip to Xochimilco Mexico City, plus the time you spend on the commute to get there and back. 

A brief history of Xochimilco

Xochimilco is a rural area south of Mexico City, that’s a major tourist magnet thanks to the colorful boats, called “Trajineras.” In 1987, Xochimilco became a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, because of its cultural contribution to the heritage of Mexico. 

💛 The name Xochimilco means “flower field” in Nahuatl, and refers to the crops and flowers that were grown by the Aztecs here before the colonization. The canals that you see today were used by Aztecs for commercial purposes. The artificial floating gardens “chinampas” rooted to the lake bed provided crops to Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital. 

Chinampas are a good example of the Aztec ingenuity, as the produce grown here sustained a big population in the capital. 

👉 Today, you can still find floating gardens “or chinampas,” but they are mostly utilized to grow flowers and fruits. Xochimilco is the last remnant of the vast network of canals and manmade islands in the lake system before the Spanish built the modern Mexico City on the ruins of Tenochtitlan. 

LET ME HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP TO  MEXICO! 

Besides being a travel blogger, I also create itineraries for my readers 😃 If you want me to plan your trip to Mexico, provide insider tips and do all the research for you, fill out the form below. 

My custom itineraries include information on popular landmarks, restaurants, and hidden corners that most tourists miss. As part of my services, I also offer suggestions on flights, hotels and activities in Mexico City or any other destination that you choose.

Can’t wait to hear from you! 💛

How far is Xochimilco from Mexico City?

Xochimilco is about 28 kilometers south of Mexico City. Xochimilco is often combined with a stop at Coyoacan, one of the most popular neighborhoods of Mexico City that is home to the famous Museo Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul), colorful markets, and a wonderful food scene.

When is the best time to go to Xochimilco?

The best time visit Xochimilco Mexico is depends on what type of experience you are looking for. If you want to enjoy the quiet canals, arrive by the opening time. This way, you can experience the Xochimilco canals before they get busy. If you want a more lively atmosphere, arrive any time after 12 p.m. when Xochimilco canals are busy with colorful trainers zipping around and you can enjoy drinks and the Mariachi music.

How to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City 

You can get to Xochimilco from Mexico City by metro, Uber, or car rental. You can also book one of guided tours of Xochimilco if you don’t want to deal with the logistics of planning your trip.

Taking Metro  to Xochimilco from Mexico City

Taking metro to Xochimilco from Mexico City is the most economical option. Go to the nearest Metro station and figure out how to get to Xochimilco. A one-way Metro ticket costs only 5 pesos, which is great if you are traveling on a budget 💸

✅ Learn how to take Uber from Mexico City to Teotihuacan , one of the most popular day trips!

PRO TIP: Avoid pica hora (or rush hour) early morning on weekdays when everybody goes to work and from 4 p.m. until about 6 p.m. when everybody goes back home. This is the busiest time and it’s common to have pickpockets on trains during this time.

How to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City by metro 

Find your way to Tasquena station which is the final station on the Blue Line .

From Tasquena, take an overground metro line Train Ligero which begins in Tasquena and takes you to Xochimilco, a final stop on this line. You will need to get a rechargeable metro card, that you can pick up any train station in Mexico City. It can be used for your future trips on metro. 

👉 Taking Metro to Xochimilco could take over one hour depending on where you are in Mexico City. Plan extra time for your trip.

From the Metro station, it’s a quick walk toward the Embarcadero or the pier from where Xochimilco tours depart. As you keep walking you will be greeted and approached by many people trying to give you directions or even sell you Xochimilco tours.

Be polite, but don’t feel obligated to buy anything, just say gracias (thank you), and keep walking. 

Let me plan your Mexico trip, so you can save time and money!

GOOD TO KNOW: If you visit Xochimilco on your own, be prepared to negotiate a price 💵 with your boat driver. Xochimilco boats can fit in up to 10-12 people, and all the passengers typically split the price of the boat ride . If your boat is not full, you will need to pay the full amount, so the difference could be anywhere between 350 Mexican Pesos (if you are on your own) and 60 Mexican Pesos (if you are with a group).

Taking a guided tour of Xochimilco

A guided tour of Xochimilco is the best option if you are visiting for the first time and are not confident in your Spanish skills. When you take a guided tour, you will not have to negotiate prices and ask for directions to the boats, as your guide will organize everything for you.

Many Xochimilco tours combine a boat ride on the famous canals and Coyoacan where you can get a tour of the neighborhood and see some of the most famous landmarks such as the Museum of Frida Kahlo. 

PRO TIP: Coyoacan is one of the most important areas of Mexico City that has its own identity and a wonderful charm, that’s why I recommend a tour that combines Xochimilco and Coyoacan . 

Mexico City Xochimilco Tours

Taking uber to xochimilco from mexico city.

If you don’t want to take public transportation from Mexico City to Xochimilco, Uber is a great option 🚙 Uber in Mexico City is much cheaper than in the United States and Europe, and will typically cost around 200 Mexican Pesos for a one way trip (although prices can fluctuate depending on the time and day).

✅ If you take Uber to Xochimilco, ask your driver to drop you off at the  Embarcadeo Nuevo Nativitas , one of the best spots for starting your Xochimilco tour. There are many different embarcaderos (docks) in Xochimilco, but Nuevo Nativitas is considered one of the best ones.

Renting a car for your trip to Xochimilco from Mexico City

If you have a car rental 🚘 you can drive to Xochimilco canals any time you want. Keep in mind that you will have to find a parking space and pay a fee if it’s private parking with security. The upside is that you can spend as much time as you want in Xochimilco without relying on public transportation. 

Prices of Xochimilco tours

The hourly maximum for a boat ride in Xochimilco canals is between 350 and 500 Mexican Pesos, which covers the whole boat. Although there’s no specific time for a boat ride, most of them are between 1,5-2 hours. Negotiate the rate ahead of your tour. 💰

GOOD TO KNOW: The price you pay in Xochimilco covers the hourly ride, not the number of people on it . Your ride will be cheaper if you take it with a group of other travelers because you will all split the price. If you have friends or anybody who wants to come with you, bring them to Xochimilco canals!

Most boats can fit up to a dozen of people, so if you are traveling by yourself or in a couple, join up with other travelers to split the cost. 

How to negotiate a price for Xochimilco boat tours

When trying to negotiate a boat ride, start with a low-ball offer and go from there. Do NOT start with a high amount like 700 Pesos, because it will be very difficult to get a competitive rate from that point. Begin with 500 Pesos for two hours and go down from there. If a boat captain wants to charge you more 500 Pesos, you should look for another ride.

✔️ If you are visiting Xochimilco without a guided tour, you need good haggling skills, and at least a basic level of Spanish. Otherwise your ride could be more expensive, especially if you are visiting Xochimilco canals on a weekend when there are a ton of tourists and boat drivers know that they can get a ride any time. 

Taking a boat ride of Xochimilco: everything you need to know

When you get on a boat, all your need to do is relax and enjoy this festive cultural experience with hundreds of boats crowding the area.

You can buy food while taking a boat ride in Xochimilco

As you float down the canals, you will pass by many other Trajineras with tourists, as well as vendors trying to sell you food, drinks, arts and crafts like woven blankets and toys. It looks a bit like a floating market where you can buy food and trinkets during your ride. 

There are also boat vendors who sell nieve, an equivalent of shaved ice that comes in a variety of exotic flavors. 

… Or hire a Mariachi band

There are also boats with Mariachi bands, xylophone players and singers, and various other bands, who will approach you asking if you want to buy their music performance. If you decide to do so, they will attach their boat to yours, and play music as you float down the canal.

These boats will approach you and offer their services/goods, and you can get them right on the spot. 

Ask your driver to take you to more remote canals

If you have more time, ask your boat driver, to take you to more remote canals where you can enjoy peaceful scenery away from the noise and crowds. 

Things to do in Xochimilco  Mexico City

Of course, everyone knows Xochimilco as the home of the famous canals and colorful Trajineras. But it’s not the only thing that you can find here. Let’s take a look at other things that you can do in Xochimilco, after taking a tour of the canals. 

Isla De Las Munecas 

One of the most unusual (and creepy) spots in Xochimilco is La Isla De Las Munecas (The Doll Island) which was supposed to be a tribute to a girl who drowned in the Xochimilco canal, but turned into a tourist attraction after a local man started decorating it with thousands of dolls. Today, Isla De Las Munecas is one of the top stops in Xochimilco, and as the hanging dolls deteriorate, they get creepier by the day. 

Greenhouse 

If you want to visit a less unsettling place, ask your boat driver to stop at a big greenhouse (or invernadero in Spanish) located in the middle of the canals. This place can’t be accessed on foot and you can step inside and explore the beautiful garden, as well as animals, and, if you get lucky, even, axolotl, the endangered amphibian. 

Trying pulque 

Pulque is an ancient Mesoamerican drink that has a pretty low alcoholic content and good nutritional value. Pulque is sold by many vendors floating down Xochimilco canals, and although it has an unappealing look and gooey texture to it, it’s one of those must-try drinks in Mexico.

A cup of pulque goes for about 20 Pesos ($1 USD), and since this drink can’t be exported, Xochimilco is a perfect place to try it. 

Xochimilco Mexico City: tips for visiting

✅ leave jewelry and expensive clothing at home.

Leave your expensive clothing and jewelry at home. As a foreign tourist, you will also be thought of as a cash cow, because people working in the tourism industry will think that you are loaded with money and try to sell your stuff and charge more money for tours.

Avoid wearing expensive brands and jewelry when visiting Xochimilco canals. This will help you to get better prices and when haggling.

✅ Keep an eye on your belongings 

Xochimilco can get busy. Always keep an eye on your belongings when you are on a boat and when you are walking the streets of pueblo from the train station. 

✅ Learn Spanish 

Even if you are taking a guided tour of Xochimilco Mexico City, learning some basic Spanish is a great idea. Locals will always treat you better if you can communicate with them in their language and show gratitude and courtesy.

✅ Leave a tip for your boat driver 

Xochimilco boat drivers make low wages and typically depend on tips. Make sure to leave a gratuity at the end of your trip to help them out. Check my tips for Mexico travel if you want to know how much you need to leave in tips every time you go to a restaurant or take a guided tour.

✅ Come on a weekday 

Weekends can be crazy busy in Xochimilco, that’s why I recommend visiting on a weekday.

If you have time constraints and have to visit on a weekend, come early morning. Some visitors come to Xochimilco specifically for its loud and festive atmosphere, and if you are one of them, then the weekend is the best time for your trip to Xochimilco Mexico City. 

GOOD TO KNOW: Sunday is the best day to experience Xochimilco like a local and party Mexican style 🇲🇽 with many families making their way down here from Mexico City for a fun afternoon.

Is Xochimilco safe?

Xochimilco canals are perfectly safe to visit during the day, but better avoided at night when the tourism activity dies down. If you are finishing your trip by the time the area closes, you can get an Uber or walk to the metro station to make your way back before it gets dark.

Final thoughts on visiting Xochimilco Mexico City

Xochimilco is a wonderful cultural experience and one of the best things to do in Mexico City. While it can be crowded and chaotic at times, it’s well worth your time and money as it has a festive atmosphere and the friendliest people. 

The increased tourism activity has been causing the deterioration of the canals of Xochimilco Mexico City. The area is also threatened by unsustainable urban growth, pollution, and over-pumping of water which has led to a decline in levels of water in the canals over years. 

Consider donating some money to the Xochimilco restoration fund before your trip there.

Where to stay in Mexico City

Mexico City is huge and depending on where you plan, you should choose hotels based on your travel. Here are a couple of options for your stay in Mexico City:

📍 Budget :  Hotel Templo Mayor  – a great budget hotel in the heart of Mexico City 

📍 Mid-range :  Domingo Santo Boutique Hotel  – a beautiful boutique stay near Templo Mayor and Zocalo

📍 Luxury :  La Valise Mexico City  – one of the most beautiful hotels in Mexico City in a quiet walkable neighborhood

More resources for planning your trip to Xochimilco Mexico City

• Agoda.com  – a great website for budget hotels in Mexico City.
• WorldNomads  – Great service for insurance coverage that will keep you safe on the road.
• Safety Wing  – Excellent insurance plan for long-term travelers that offers competitive rates is you are planning to stay on the road several weeks in a row. 
• iVisa  – the best website for getting help with your Mexico visa.
• DiscoverCars.com  – Consider renting a car at Discover Cars if you want to day day trips from Mexico City including Xochimilco canals. 
• GetYourGuide.com  – This is one of the best platforms for finding guided tours of Xochimilco Mexico City. Get Your Guide is my favorite platform that offers awesome tours and top-notch guides in many destinations in Mexico.
• CheapoAir.com  – One of the best platforms for saving money on flights within Mexico and beyond. 
• Booking.com  – a popular website with tons and tons of options for accommodations of all sorts.

Xochimilco Boat Ride: Full Day of Ruins, Trajineras, Museums and More (12h)

🇲🇽 Mexico Mexico City Tours Xochimilco Xochimilco Boat Ride: Full Day of Ruins, Trajineras, Museums and More (12h)

The Xochimilco Boat Ride is a must-visit for those who stop in Mexico City for the first time. Discover the UNESCO-listed pyramids of Teotihuacan , the capital of the first Mesoamerican empire and one of the oldest cities in the Western Hemisphere; experience the natural beauty of Xochimilco on a boat ride and explore the iconic Frida Kahlo Museum with a knowledgeable guide. Witness breathtaking murals at the UNESCO-listed UNAM Campus , all in one tour!

• Discover spectacular UNESCO-listed monuments and locations in Teotihuacan and Xochimilco.
• See the impressive Pyramids of the Sun and Moon and learn about their historical relevance in Mexico.
• Get amazed by colorful murals at the worldwide famous UNAM campus.
• Take a fascinating boat ride along the ancient Aztec canals accompanied by songs of mariachi music.
• Get your tickets and visit the Frida Kahlo Museum, home of the outstanding Mexican painter.
• Opt to browse the traditional hand-made souvenirs market and local street food in Coyoacan.

Hop aboard the Xochimilco Boat Ride , meet your private guide in Mexico City , and head to the Teotihuacan Pyramids . Leisurely explore the archaeological zone seeing the impressive Teotihuacan Sun Pyramid and the Moon Pyramid , and walk down the famous Avenue of the Dead . Also, visit the beautiful Temple of Quetzalpapalotl , and other sights of this ancient city.

Afterward, move to Xochimilco , in Southern Mexico City, and go for a boat ride in its picturesque canals, which were declared UNESCO World Heritage in 1987. On the way, listen to traditional mariachi music or marimba bands, and enjoy the beautiful lacustrine landscape.

Then, head to Coyoacan and make a stop to visit the UNAM campus , the largest university in the country to see the unique murals that some renowned Mexican artists created.

Once in Coyoacan , a beautiful colonial neighborhood famous for being Frida Kahlo ‘s hometown, walk down its cobblestone streets and hear meaningful stories about this artist. Also, at her museum, learn some relevant fun facts about her childhood, family, and friends, as well as the dramatic accident that changed her life.

After a full day of new experiences, return to our vehicle and relax on the way back to your accommodation.

How is this tour different?

Authentic    how this tour provides an actual image of the destination, life, and practices of the host community..

We do our best to make our trips educative and fulfilling, in which travelers can interact with local populations, learn about their traditions, and culture, and connect with their core values.

A tour with impact   ? How this tour positively affects the destination and local communities on economic, socio-cultural, and environmental dimensions.

We support the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Our tours are aligned with SDG 8 and 12, focusing on empowering local communities and promoting sustainable consumption and production practices. We take tourists to underdeveloped regions, creating opportunities for economic growth while respecting local traditions and educating communities on sustainable approaches.

Other   ? Other advantages this tour offers to travelers.

• We will spend the time of the tour purely on activities and sightseeing: no visits to restaurants and souvenir shops (unless you ask).
• An ideal choice for small groups: the price of the tour is fixed and varies just slightly depending on the size of your group.
• We are flexible: we can adjust the program and route to your interests while the duration of the tour can always be extended for an extra fee.
• This tour is private : only your group will participate.
• The price per person is variable and depends on the size of your group (please choose the number of participants in the booking calendar ➡️ to see the final price).

Local Expert Guides

English/Spanish private bilingual guide service.

Transportation

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle.

Non-alcoholic drinks and snacks

Entrance and guided visits to Teotihuacan Archaelogical Zone, Frida Kahlo Museum, ~1-h-boat ride in Xochimilco, walking tour in Coyoacan.

Accommodation

Accommodation is not included: find the one exactly for you.

Personal expenses

Flights are not included: check our partner deals .

Travel insurance is not included: find insurance tailored for you.

Customization ? The way how tour organizer can customize this tour for you

We can do the following customizations on your request (subject to availability and needs to be confirmed before the tour): 1. Adjust the starting time of the tour. 2. Adjust the time you spend at each destination of the tour. 3. Add extra places of your choice (e.g. attractions, restaurants, etc.) to the itinerary on a complimentary basis if those visits. (1) fit the default duration of the tour, (2) don’t involve a significant change of the route and extra fees (e.g. entrance tickets, tolls, parking, etc.). Changes other than those will involve an extra fee and must be communicated to the tour organizer at least 72h before the tour (e.g. in the “Special Requirements” field during the booking or via email).

Cancellations

This and most of our 1-day tours can be canceled up to 48 hours before the departure (see cancellation policy for more info).

Frequently asked questions:

How to book.

To reserve the tour, please choose the date and complete the booking form. Once finished, you will receive a booking confirmation in your email.

How can I contact the tour organizer?

You can find the contact phone number and email of the tour organizer in the confirmation email.

Can I talk to someone?

Except for the information on this page, you can see full terms & conditions from each tour organizer before completing your booking.

About Vibe Adventures

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the tour and activity providers (“Organizers”) listed on vibeadventures.com are independent third parties and are not agents or affiliates of Vibe Adventures. Therefore, Vibe Adventures shall not be held liable for any injuries, sickness, accidents, delays, neglect, fraud, poor weather conditions, negative consequences, or expenses arising from or associated with the Organizers, their tours and activities, or those of their affiliates. If the tour does not include insurance, the travelers are responsible for obtaining travel insurance, as well as passports, appropriate visas, and necessary vaccinations.

Cancellations & Modifications

To cancel or modify your booking, please contact the Organizer directly using the email or phone number provided in the booking confirmation. Cancellations and modifications are subject to availability and the approval of the Organizer in accordance with their booking terms and conditions, which are made available to you during the booking process.

If you have any other questions please contact us .

Related tours

La Llorona Xochimilco: Night Show, Legends and Trajineras Tour (6 h)

Temazcal Teotihuacan: Experience An Ancient Ceremony (8h)

Coyoacan Museums: Know Kahlo House, Folk Culture Museum and More (7 h)

Mexico City Market Tour: Immerse in a Colorful and Artistic World (4h)

Chapultepec Castle Tour: Explore the Luxurious Chambers (3h)

Hot Air Balloon Teotihuacan: Plus Guide and Driver Included (Group/ 9 h)

Taco Tour Mexico: Taste the Mexican Tradition (4 h)

Zona Rosa Mexico City Nightlife: Magic LGBT+ Bar Tour (3.5h)

Mexico City Hike: Conquer the Ajusco National Park with a Personal Guide (12h)

See all Xochimilco tours

Get 5% off this tour with "Back2Travel" promo code or check similar tours 🌎 Keep safe & travel soon!

• Preplanned tours
• Daytrips out of Moscow
• Themed tours
• Customized tours
• St. Petersburg

Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.

Moscow Metro Tour

• Page active

Description

Moscow metro private tours.

• 2-hour tour $87:  10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off
• 3-hour tour $137:  20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. 
• Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

Highlight of Metro Tour

• Visit 10 must-see stations of Moscow metro on 2-hr tour and 20 Metro stations on 3-hr tour, including grand Komsomolskaya station with its distinctive Baroque décor, aristocratic Mayakovskaya station with Soviet mosaics, legendary Revolution Square station with 72 bronze sculptures and more!
• Explore Museum of Moscow Metro and learn a ton of technical and historical facts;
• Listen to the secrets about the Metro-2, a secret line supposedly used by the government and KGB;
• Experience a selection of most striking features of Moscow Metro hidden from most tourists and even locals;
• Discover the underground treasure of Russian Soviet past – from mosaics to bronzes, paintings, marble arches, stained glass and even paleontological elements;
• Learn fun stories and myths about Coffee Ring, Zodiac signs of Moscow Metro and more;
• Admire Soviet-era architecture of pre- and post- World War II perious;
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sparrow Hills from Luzhniki Metro Bridge – MetroMost, the only station of Moscow Metro located over water and the highest station above ground level;
• If lucky, catch a unique «Aquarelle Train» – a wheeled picture gallery, brightly painted with images of peony, chrysanthemums, daisies, sunflowers and each car unit is unique;
• Become an expert at navigating the legendary Moscow Metro system;
• Have fun time with a very friendly local;
• + Atmospheric Metro lunch in Moscow’s the only Metro Diner (included in a 3-hr tour)

Hotel Pick-up

Metro stations:.

Komsomolskaya

Novoslobodskaya

Prospekt Mira

Belorusskaya

Mayakovskaya

Novokuznetskaya

Revolution Square

Sparrow Hills

+ for 3-hour tour

Victory Park

Slavic Boulevard

Vystavochnaya

Dostoevskaya

Elektrozavodskaya

Partizanskaya

Museum of Moscow Metro

• Drop-off  at your hotel, Novodevichy Convent, Sparrow Hills or any place you wish
• + Russian lunch  in Metro Diner with artistic metro-style interior for 3-hour tour

Fun facts from our Moscow Metro Tours:

From the very first days of its existence, the Moscow Metro was the object of civil defense, used as a bomb shelter, and designed as a defense for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.

At a depth of 50 to 120 meters lies the second, the coded system of Metro-2 of Moscow subway, which is equipped with everything you need, from food storage to the nuclear button.

According to some sources, the total length of Metro-2 reaches over 150 kilometers.

The Museum was opened on Sportivnaya metro station on November 6, 1967. It features the most interesting models of trains and stations.

Coffee Ring

The first scheme of Moscow Metro looked like a bunch of separate lines. Listen to a myth about Joseph Stalin and the main brown line of Moscow Metro.

Zodiac Metro

According to some astrologers, each of the 12 stops of the Moscow Ring Line corresponds to a particular sign of the zodiac and divides the city into astrological sector.

Astrologers believe that being in a particular zadiac sector of Moscow for a long time, you attract certain energy and events into your life.

Paleontological finds 

Red marble walls of some of the Metro stations hide in themselves petrified inhabitants of ancient seas. Try and find some!

• Every day each car in  Moscow metro passes  more than 600 km, which is the distance from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
• Moscow subway system is the  5th in the intensity  of use (after the subways of Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai).
• The interval in the movement of trains in rush hour is  90 seconds .

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

Write your review

Moscow Metro Tour - With Ratings

• Moscow Tours
• Sightseeing Tours

Moscow Metro Tour

• See more images

Tour Information

Key Details

• Free Cancellation
• Duration: 1 Hr 30 Mins
• Language: English
• Departure Details : Get to the Biblioteka imeni Lenina (Lenin's Library, Red Line) or Alexandrovsky Sad (Alexander Garden, Light Blue Line) metro station. Use any exit. Find the Kutafia Tower of the Kremlin. The guide .. read more

The Moscow Metro has a long history to it. Also, the city has an extremely beautiful subway. It is very well maintained and is also extremely decorated. Each station and spot has a different artistic aspect to it. On this tour, experience the efficiency of Moscow Metro.

• Roam around the Revolution Square, with magnificent sculptures of the Soviet people
• Visit the Kurskaya Station Lobby, the Hall of Fame of the WWII
• Be awestruck at the Komsomolskaya , with impressive mural mosaics of Russian glorious victories
• See the artistic side of Novoslobodskaya , with the stained glass, although under the ground.

Know More about this tour

Take our Moscow Metro Tour and discover why our subway is recognized as the most beautiful in the world!

"They used to have palaces for kings, we are going to build palaces for the people!" said one of the main architects of the Soviet subway.

With us you will see the most beautiful metro stations in Moscow built under Stalin: Komsomolskaya, Revolution square, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya. Our guide will tell fascinating stories and secrets hidden underground, urban legends and funny stories.

How many babies were born on the Moscow metro? Where is the secret Metro 2? How deep is the Moscow metro? And where did Stalin give his speech in November 1941? Join out Metro tour and find out!

• Metro ticket

Cancellation Policy

• If you cancel between 0 hrs To 24 hrs before scheduled tour departure, the cancellation charge will be 100%
• If you cancel between 1 days To 180 days before scheduled tour departure, the cancellation charge will be 0%
• Please note that in case of No show, the cancellation charge will be 100% of the listed tour fare.
• Please note tours booked using discount coupon codes will be non refundable.
• Culture & Theme Based Tours
• Food & Nightlife Tours
• Outdoor & Nature Tours
• Aerial Tours
• Adventure & Sports
• Tickets & Passes
• Transfers & Transportation
• Holiday & Seasonal Tours
• Luxury & Special Occasions Tours
• Shore Excursions
• Weddings & Honeymoons Tours
• Day Trips & Excursions
• Multi Day & Extended Tours
• Private & Custom Tours
• Shopping & Fashion
• Walking & Biking Tours
• What to do in Moscow
• Best time of year to visit Moscow
• How to reach Moscow
• Restaurants in Moscow
• City Map of Moscow
• Moscow Itineraries
• Moscow Hotels
• Itinerary Planner