tourist destinations near mexico city

14 Top-Rated Day Trips from Mexico City

Written by Meagan Drillinger and Bryan Dearsley Updated Jan 20, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger spends several months each year traveling throughout Mexico.

Difficult though it may be to pull yourself away from the many fine historical sites of Mexico City , the area around this bustling capital contains many wonderful attractions worthy of day trips. While most of the best places to visit near Mexico City can be seen in a day, others are far enough away to require spending at least one or two nights there.

Regardless of the distance, most of these destinations are accessible via public transport or car. Guided tours of particular attractions of interest can also be arranged, either individually or as part of a package (customized tours are becoming increasingly popular), so you can enjoy some of the most beautiful countryside in Mexico, along with charming colonial towns and cities , Aztec ruins, cave systems , and some of North America's oldest historical sites easily and safely.

Discover all the best things to do near the city with our list of the top day trips from Mexico City.

1. Touring Teotihuacán

2. the aztec pyramid of tenayuca, 3. touring the cities of puebla and cholula, 4. tula and the tollán ruins, 5. taxco de alarcon and the santa prisca church, 6. grutas de cacahuamilpa national park, 7. the mexican highlands: popocatépetl and iztaccíhuatl, 8. the convent at tepotzotlán, 9. the aztec ruins of malinalco, 10. spanish-inspired morelia, 11. san miguel de allende, 12. valle de bravo, 13. cuernavaca, 14. tlaxcala and cacaxtla, map of day trips from mexico city.

The largest Pre-Columbian site so far excavated in Mesoamerica, Teotihuacán (Náhuatl for "the place where man becomes God") lies 50 kilometers north of Mexico City and makes for an excellent day trip.

On the edge of the high-lying valley of Anáhuac and dating from around AD 600, this once-influential political, religious, and cultural center - now a UNESCO World Heritage Site - was reduced to ruins long before the arrival of the Spanish. There's much to see, from the museum with its displays and large model of the site to the four-kilometer-long Street of the Dead (Calle de los Muertos).

Other highlights include the Moon Pyramid ; the Citadel (Ciudadela); and the Temple of Quetzalcóatl , a large pyramid distinguished by its 366 sculptures, a rarity in a city in which very few stone sculptures have been found.

Also of interest is a rather chilling burial chamber with the skeletons of 18 priests murdered during a ritual sacrifice around AD 150.

For those who want to get a unique perspective of Teotihuacán, consider this Hot Air Balloon Flight over Teotihuacan tour. Enjoy sweeping views over the valley and one of the best vantage points from which to view the historic pyramids. The tour includes a 30- to 50-minute flight in a balloon plus breakfast and round-trip transportation from Mexico City.

Just 12 kilometers north of Mexico City, and an easy day trip thanks to its proximity to the capital and its public transit networks, stands one of the country's most impressive pyramids, Tenayuca.

Dedicated to the sun cult, the core of this 13th-century building measures 31 by 12 meters across and eight meters high, while successive "casings" (the structure was re-clad every 52 years) saw the final structure measuring 66 by 62 meters across and 19 meters high.

The pyramid bears many similarities to Mexico City's Templo Mayor and was probably used for stargazing as it was aligned with heavenly bodies, a fact indicated by the existence of posts in the pyramid walls at the exact spot where the sun goes down on the vernal and autumnal equinoxes.

Highlights include the Serpent Wall (Coatepantli), which covers three sides of the building and comprises 138 serpent sculptures, and a vault decorated with skulls and skeletons symbolizing the setting of the sun.

Also worth a visit, and just three kilometers away, stands the 10-meter-high temple pyramid of Santa Cecilia Acatitlán .

A superb day trip option for those wanting to enjoy a smaller-city experience from Mexico City involves a scenic drive past famous Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes to Puebla and Cholula. While famous for its numerous beautiful old churches, the must-visit place of worship in Cholula is the Santa María de Tonantzintla , a unique Baroque-style edifice whose design was heavily influenced by the local indigenous populations.

Highlights include a look at the richly decorated interior (gold seems to be everywhere!), an indicator of the wealth of the congregation of this historic building. From here, it's an easy trip to Puebla. Referred to by locals as the "City of Angels," Puebla is a delight to explore, whether for shopping (it has a busy crafts market) or for grabbing a delicious traditional meal from a street vendor or restaurant.

The historic downtown core is also worth exploring, with notable features being the Plaza de Armas, the cathedral, and the Church of Santo Domingo.

Tour: A great way to experience these two cities is on the Puebla and Cholula Full-Day Tour from Mexico City , which includes a guided tour of these top attractions, a walking tour of Puebla's historical district, and samples of Mexican cuisine.

Two hours from Mexico City by road is the city of Tula, home to the remains of Tollán, the Toltec capital, and the perfect excuse for an excellent road trip.

Believed to have been influenced by the Maya civilization more than 1,200 kilometers away in Yucatán, this splendid ancient site was first inhabited around the early 7th century and in later centuries by the militaristic Toltecs, who adopted elements of the artistic skills of the Mayas. They attributed special significance to eagles and jaguars and are also believed to have instituted mass human sacrifices to appease the gods.

Excavations have revealed the city once covered 12 square kilometers and supported a population of 60,000 people. Highlights include a series of intricately carved columns, as well as colossal statues known as the Atlantes, now assembled on the platform of the temple pyramid and used to support the roof of the temple.

Also of interest, and providing a sense of the site's scale, is the main square with its five-story-high stepped pyramid on which the Temple of the Morning Star once stood, and the Burnt-down Palace (Palacio Quemado), formerly composed of several large rooms, columned halls, and courtyards and notable for its two Chac-mool sculptures and a wall with painted reliefs depicting a procession of richly adorned noblemen.

Set in a spectacular location on the side of a series of hilltops 170 kilometers south of Mexico City, Taxco is a popular tourist destination due to its colonial low tiled houses, tiny squares, quaint alleyways , and numerous secluded corners.

Highlights include visiting the beautiful Santa Prisca Church (San Sebastián y Santa Prisca), a picturesque place of worship in Plaza de la Borda, one of the town's smaller squares. Completed in 1758, this masterpiece of Churrigueresque architecture includes a main entrance flanked by a pair of Corinthian columns enclosing a row of sculptures and the Pope's triple crown. The building's elaborate ornamentation includes statues, weapons, foliage, shells, ribbons, and cherubim and is topped by a dome covered with blue and yellow tiles.

The interior is equally delightful with its superbly carved, painted, and gilded scenes depicting figures of apostles, angels, and saints in the middle of richly fashioned motives of flowers and birds.

Although located 160 kilometers to the south of Mexico City along an extremely windy route, a sightseeing trip to Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park - about 70 kilometers drive from the picturesque town of Cuernavaca - is well worth the effort.

The big attraction in this lovely park is the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa Caverns , one of the world's largest cave systems , along with a smaller network known as the Grutas of Carlos Pacheco. You'll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular subterranean landscapes anywhere, including long tunnels carved out by underground rivers, as well as a variety of fascinating dripstone formations extending through 16 chambers (one of the biggest is 80 meters wide and 77 meters high).

Since their discovery in 1835, numerous tunnels have been driven into the caves to a depth of more than 16 kilometers without even reaching the limits of the cave system. A variety of guided tours are available, including opportunities for rock climbing and rappelling.

Some of the most interesting scenery within an easy drive of Mexico City can be found in the volcanic belt that crosses Mexico from the Pacific to the Atlantic, forming the southern edge of the extensive Mexican Highlands.

In the early and middle tertiary period, enormous lava flows poured over the land, and during the second phase of eruptions, which began in Pliozän and continue to this day, the enormous mountains of Popocatépetl (5,452 meters) and Iztaccíhuatl (5,286 meters) came into being.

These two majestic snow-covered peaks of the Sierra Nevada form the mountain ridge separating the high valley of Mexico and the plateau of Puebla, and since 1994, Popacatépetl has frequently spewed forth fragments of rock, ash, and smoke.

In addition to these spectacular mountains are a variety of interesting manmade structures, including a number of 16th-century monasteries designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

While an ascent of the volcanoes doesn't require great climbing ability, it's best to secure the services of a trained guide with the skills and equipment to ensure your trip is a safe one. A great option is to book an Iztaccíhuatl volcano hiking tour departing Mexico City. Highlights of these full-on 12-hour expeditions designed for outdoor enthusiasts include a three-hour hike to a point just below the 5,181-meter-high summit of the volcano, with plenty of chances to take in the amazing views of the surrounding area.

Also of interest (though part of a separate or alternative day trip is Popocatépetl-Iztaccíhuatl National Park , home to the Paso de Cortés (Cortés Pass), the route Hernán Cortés and his conquistadors took on November 3rd, 1519, as they marched from the coast of the Gulf of Mexico to Tenochtitlán.

Tepotzotlán, a pretty little colonial town located just 40 kilometers from downtown Mexico City, makes for an easy and fun day trip offering numerous points of interest. Once famous as a center for spiritual instruction, the town's most impressive buildings are its old convent, which now houses a museum of religious art (Museo Nacional del Virreinato), and a well-restored church considered to be one of the jewels of Mexican Baroque architecture.

The façade of the convent church, built between 1628 and 1762, is among the most outstanding examples of the Churrigueresque style in Mexico and is notable for the harmonious arrangement of its figures, niches, and sculptures.

Other highlights include its seven magnificent altars carved of wood and painted in gold, and a splendid octagonal room, the Camarín, one of the finest examples of Mexican High Baroque art, and exquisite ceiling art painted by local Indian artists.

About 95 kilometers southwest of Mexico City is the archaeological site of Malinalco on the Cerro de los Idolos (Hill of Idols). Perched 220 meters above the village of the same name, in a lovely region of green forests and rugged rock formations, this Aztec site is unique for having one of the very few rock-cut Pre-Columbian structures in Mesoamerica.

Highlights include the Templo Principal , hewn from the rock and also known as the House of the Eagle (Cuauhxicalli), used for the initiation of members of the religious military orders known as the Eagle Knights and the Jaguar Knights (evidence of carved jaguars are still visible on the staircase).

Also of interest is the entrance to the circular shrine, carved to resemble the jaws of a snake and flanked by a serpent-throne. Another worthwhile attraction is the much larger Building IV , partly hewn from rock, where a remarkable wooden drum (tlapanhuéhuetl) with finely carved figures and glyphs of the eagle and jaguar associated with the Messenger of the Sun was found (it's now in the museum in Tenango).

Although 290 kilometers west of Mexico City, Morelia, capital of the state of Michoacán, is worth spending a day visiting if you're looking for fine examples of early Spanish colonial architecture. The city was founded in 1541 on the right bank of the Rio Grande de Morelia, and has managed to retain its distinctive Spanish colonial character.

Begin your visit in the beautiful Main Square (Plaza de los Mártires or Zócalo). Lined on three sides by arcades, its east side is completely dominated by the magnificent 17th-century Baroque-style cathedral , built in pinkish-brown trachyte with a superb azulejo-decorated dome.

Its interior also contains several notable features, including the Neoclassical retablos, the silver font, a crucifix by Manuel Tolsá, an imposing organ built in Germany in 1903, and a number of paintings in the chancel and the sacristy attributed to leading Mexican painters of the early 18th century.

Also of interest is the nearby Clavijero Palace dating from 1660, as well as one of the country's last surviving aqueducts . A distinctive local landmark, the aqueduct was completed in 1789, measures 1,600 meters in length, and is supported by 253 arches.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Morelia

Although located some 270 kilometers northwest of Mexico City, the pretty town of San Miguel de Allende is worth taking the time to explore. Nestled on a hill and extending down into the pleasant valley below, this colonial town is well worth an extended stay in order to properly explore its attractive old houses with their patios and gardens hidden behind simple façades.

Along with its charming townscape, its beautiful surroundings and pleasant climate have attracted many foreigners, either as visitors or permanent residents, resulting in the town becoming a center of intellectual and artistic life (predominantly in the spheres of painting, sculpture, pottery, music, literature, and drama).

A highlight is the exquisite Church of El Oratorio de San Felipe Neri . Founded in 1712, its Indian features are clearly evident on its pink stone façade, particularly in the five statues of saints standing in niches. Also of interest is a painting of the Virgin of Guadalupe by Miguel Cabrera, along with 33 superb paintings detailing the life of St. Felipe Neri, also attributed to him.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende

West of Mexico City sits a shimmering jewel wreathed in mountains. The lake town of Valle de Bravo is perched on the shores of the expansive Lake Avandaro , approximately 156 kilometers from Mexico City, roughly a two-hour drive.

The lake on which Valle de Bravo sits is manmade, but is truly spectacular to behold. Valle de Bravo is a popular weekend getaway for the well-heeled of Mexico City, who are drawn to the colorful country cabins, golf courses, hotels, and, of course, life on the lake.

While visiting Valle de Bravo, you won't want to miss the St. Mary's Chapel , known for its historic architecture and Spanish design. The archaeological museum is also a must, as it holds 300 pieces that come from the 3,000 archaeological sites found only in the State of Mexico. A handicraft market is popular, as well, for its souvenirs of wood, clay, blown glass, or wrought iron. And then there is the lake, known for water skiing, kayaking, speedboats, sailboats, and even catamaran tours.

Tour: This Discover Valle de Bravo tour gives a little taste of everything. It includes a visit to the Vero de Novia Waterfall, a beautiful waterfall with an impressive 35-meter drop. It also includes a visit to St. Mary's Chapel, a walk through the Barrio de Santa Maria Ahuacatlan, and a yacht cruise around the lake.

A laid-back escape for residents of Mexico City, the charming town of Cuernavaca is best known for its nickname, the "City of Eternal Spring." That's because the weather in Cuernavaca is always as close to perfect as it gets.

Located in the state of Morelos, Cuernavaca is recognized by its elaborate estates, wrought-iron gates, bustling restaurants, and walkable downtown streets. Cuernavaca makes a great homebase from which to explore the ruins of Xochicalco, a preserved fortified city that bears resemblance to many of Mexico's other Indigenous archaeological sites — Teotihuacan, the great Mayan cities, among others.

Cuernavaca is approximately 86 kilometers south of Mexico City and is easily accessible by road and bus.

The state of Tlaxcala sits directly to the east of Mexico City. Though not as often visited as other neighboring states, Tlaxcala provides a unique glimpse into the culture and heritage of Mexico. In fact, Tlaxcala played an important role in Mexico's history when Hernan Cortez forged an alliance with the Tlaxcalan people, which was the catalyst to the destruction of the Aztecs.

Tlaxcala is easily accessible by car or bus. Be sure to combine the visit to Tlaxcala with a stop at the ancient ruins of Cacaxtla. Cacaxtla is an Indigenous site that dates back to the Epiclassic period between 650-900 CE. Its rise to power came after the fall of Teotihuacan and Cholula. Here, you will be able to see some of the most beautiful mural paintings across many of the well-preserved temples.

More on Mexico

10 top things to do in Mexico City

Oct 21, 2023 • 7 min read

Explore the best Mexico City has to offer © Daniel Lloyd Bluck Fernandez

Once home to a great ancient empire and now a cutting-edge and progressive modern capital, Mexico City has been one of the Americas’ mightiest metropolises since its inception. 

In a city so vast and packed with heaving markets, colossal museums and a never-ending amount of neighborhoods, you can easily become overstimulated and overwhelmed. If you’re a soon-to-be first-timer in the Mexican capital, these 10 suggestions are the starting points you need to kickstart your stay.

1. Explore Frida Kahlo’s intimate inner world at Casa Azul

Casa Azul is the home where artist Frida Kahlo was born and lived most of her adult life. Located in the Coyoacán neighborhood, this iconic tourist haunt is an important pilgrimage for any art lover wanting to immerse themselves in Kahlo's life and legacy. 

The cobalt-blue building is a treasure trove of her self-portraits, family photographs and personal artifacts, such as her traditional Mexican wardrobe and pre-Columbian relics she lovingly collected. 

Much of her life was marked by tragedy and suffering, evident from the crutches, medicines and the four-post bed she was confined to for many months following an accident. These elements are what make Casa Azul so poignant. 

2. Get rowdy at a lucha libre match

There are various stadiums where you can attend lucha libre (Mexican wrestling) fight nights, including Arena Coliseo  (“the cathedral of lucha libre"), Arena México and Arena Naucalpan to the northwest of the city. 

Once you take a seat, grab yourself a giant plastic cup of cheap beer and a bag of potato chips from the sellers that weave in and out of the packed stands. Watch in amused awe as the masked luchadores (wrestlers) carry out acrobatic flips, kicks, and belly-flops, their sweaty, lycra-clad bodies dramatically smacking onto the canvas. The local crowds get very invested in the performed fighting and their passion is infectious. 

Planning tip: The stadiums’ neighborhoods can be on the dodgy side at night, so make a swift exit once you leave the arena while crowds are still milling around. 

3. Lose yourself among the bookshelves of Mexico City’s libraries 

Beyond the books and archives, Mexico’s libraries are architectural marvels in their own right. Biblioteca Vasconcelos , considered one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, is an industrial yet ethereal goliath of glass walls, towering steel bookshelves and futuristic floating walkways. 

The UNAM Central Library is a looming 10-floor tower block completely embellished with colorful stone tiles. Circle the building’s exterior which serves as a canvas for an immense mural, each side telling the story of Mexico’s pre-Columbian, colonial, revolutionary past, as well as its contemporary present. 

4. Taste your way around the city on a food tour

Mexico City is a culinary colossus on the international food and drink scene, so it is easy to get overcome by the seemingly inexhaustible street stands and up-market restaurants. Likewise, there are so many local delicacies with such unusual names that even a Spanish speaker might struggle to decipher a menu. 

This is why booking a food tour is a good way to give your gastronomic awakening in the city a bit more direction. Devoured is a Mexican-owned and socially conscious food experience provider, offering themed tours to emerging culinary destinations – such as the Juarez neighborhood – and trips to help you navigate the city’s flea and farmers’ markets one taco at a time. 

5. Spirituality at Sonora Market

Journey to the back left corner of Mercado de Sonora and discover a world of santería and shamanism, where you will find a plethora of herbal concoctions and plants to cure all manner of ailments. For adventurous travelers, ask around about getting a limpia (spiritual cleanse). 

Beyond lotions and potions, the goods sold here represent the diverse faiths and beliefs practiced in the city. Catholic crucifixes and Judas effigies, voodoo dolls and cowrie shells used in Afro-Caribbean rituals sit alongside skulls and skeletons connected to Santa Muerte, Mexico’s saint of death. 

Planning tip: Mexico does not have a big haggling culture, so, as a rule of thumb, pay the suggested price, especially when it comes to religious items. Also, bear in mind that the back right section of the market is where live animals are sold as pets or for sacrificial purposes.

6. Step into Mexico City’s cinematic scenes

Mexico City is a bastion of global cinema with many movies, from foreign to domestic and from blockbuster to arthouse, having been shot there. In fact, Baz Luhrmann’s 1996 classic Romeo and Juliet was not filmed in fair Verona but predominantly in Mexico City. 

Hike up to the castle perched atop Chapultepec Park’s hill, depicted as the Capulet family’s extravagant mansion. Iglesia del Purísimo Corazón de María in the Colonia del Valle neighborhood was the church featured in some of the film’s most recognizable scenes. It’s an imposing gothic and art deco-style masterpiece topped by a 10m Virgin Mary not unlike Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer. 

And who could forget the James Bond movie Spectre, which highlighted a Day of the Dead Parade set in Mexico City. Fun fact, the massive outdoor celebration wasn't a thing until after 2016. Día de Los Muertos always existed but was more intimate with celebrations taking place at cemeteries or homes. 

7. Glide along the canals of Xochimilco

Around 22km south of the city is Xochimilco , a former freshwater lake transformed into a vast canal network by the Aztecs from as early as 1150 AD. The area is made up of chinampas , floating farm islands that used to sustainably feed the civilization that later became Mexico City. 

However, Xochimilco is most renowned for its weekend boat parties, where thousands of locals and visitors take to the canals in multi-colored trajinera rafts to drink pulque (fermented agave wine) and drunkenly dance to mariachis. 

Planning tip: Opt for a more sustainable way of appreciating Xochimilco by booking yourself a sunrise tour with Arco Tierra . These trips also include farm-to-table breakfasts prepared with ingredients grown on the remaining active chinampas.

8. Smell the roses at Jamaica Market

Although this market sells pretty much anything you can imagine, it specializes in all things flora. On entering the city’s biggest flower market, you will be visually bombarded by ginormous bouquets of roses and sunflowers which have been intricately crafted by vendors and artisans. 

There are 5,000 species with elaborate arrangements for every occasion, from Day of the Dead ofrendas (altars) to wedding bouquets and garish displays spelling out te amo (I love you) in colorful blooms. 

Detour: Depart from the flower part of the market and head to Mariscos El Paisa, a gourmet yet laid-back open kitchen serving up an extensive menu of experimental seafood dishes. Try the tacos de pulpo al pastor (marinated octopus tacos) or a caldo de mariscos (seafood stew). You will find it on stands 287 to 292 on the northern edge of the market. 

9. Float over the ancient Teotihuacán Pyramids 

After exploring the ultra-modern Mexico City, step back in time to Teotihuacán , once the largest urban center in the Americas. This Mesoamerican civilization had mysteriously declined by the 8th century, leaving the abandoned site steeped in anthropological questions yet to be answered. 

Wander down the Avenue of the Dead, the main thoroughfare of the ancient city, until you reach the Pyramid of the Sun, the third-largest pyramid in the world, and the Pyramid of the Moon. As well as on foot, you can also take to the skies in a hot air balloon , getting a bird's eye view of the pyramids in all their might and mystery.

Planning tip: Go to gate eight at the North Bus Station to purchase a bus ticket that will take you to the site, located around an hour north of the city. 

10. Immerse yourself in Mexico’s indigenous history in the Anthropology Museum

To understand Mexico, you must delve into its pre-Columbian past and there is no better place than the capital’s Museo Nacional de Antropología . This site is a must-see but it is so staggeringly large (think 600,000 artifacts across 23 rooms) that you could spend days in there, so make a beeline for a specific section or two. 

Head to the Aztec Hall to see the Mona Lisa of the museum, the iconic Aztec sunstone, or Olmec Hall’s giant boulder heads. 

Planning tip: The museum is free on Sundays and closed on Mondays. 

This article was first published Mar 10, 2020 and updated Oct 21, 2023.

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The 24 best things to do in Mexico City

This place is a magical and chaotic metropolis, so let us guide you through the very best things to do in Mexico City

Welcome to one of the most exciting places on the planet. Mexico City is a thriller, a chaotic metropolis of history, culture, art, and all the rest, with some of the best street food imaginable seemingly waiting on every corner. Working out exactly the best things to do in Mexico City can be difficult, so let us help you out by narrowing down the list from the good to the great.

But yeah, where to begin? Many of the Latin world’s best museums and galleries are in Mexico City, along with some of the most thrilling bars and clubs , meccas of dance that run from late at night until very, very late in the morning. Mexico City leaves its mark, that’s for sure.

25 Unmissable things to do in Mexico City

1.  Visit the house where Frida Kahlo lived and died

Can you imagine walking in the exact same place where the famous painter, Frida Kahlo, was born, where she lived and died? You will find this little abode, which is now the Frida Kahlo Museum ‘Casa Azul’, in Coyoacán, her favorite neighborhood. Not only does it safeguard her most cherished works of art, such as Viva la Vida and Frida y su cesárea, but it also is home to her diaries, clothes, and even the artist’s bed. If you look closely, you will find her ashes in what was her bedroom. Gloomy, right?

2.  Visit the artisanal market, La Ciudadela

An array of colors unfolds at your every step in this artisanal market, which is over 50 years old. Lose yourself in the shelves of skulls, jugs, jaguar heads made with black mud, wood, or with a Huichol decoration, traditional games, baskets made of palm leaves, saddlery, vases, pots, and talavera plates; alebrijes (Oaxacan-Mexican folk art sculptures of fantastical creatures) and replicas of pre-Hispanic pieces of art. All the artesania that you can find in the country’s touristic hotspots, you can find here in this market.

3.  Watch the sunrise from 65m above

Want to have a 360-degree view of Mexico City while admiring the sunrise? Monumental Sunrises are offering you this incredible experience, thanks to which you will see the sunrise from the highest point of the Revolution Monument (no more than 65 meters high). The tour includes coffee and a pastry to help you get to the little light from where you can admire the city’s emblematic buildings, such as the Frontón México, the Opera House, the Tlatelolco University Cultural Center, and the Chopo University Museum, which was brought piece by piece from Germany. To enjoy this experience (which lasts for around 2 hours), bring comfortable shoes and a coat. You must reserve your place ahead of time.

4.  Marvel at the murals in the Palace of Fine Arts

If you go into the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as coming across eclectic and impressive architecture, you will find yourself in front of enormous works of art that defined an era and placed Mexican muralism on the global art scene. You will find murals from Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Rufino Tamayo, Roberto Montenegro and Manuel Rodríguez Lozano. Rivera’s unmissable Man at the Crossroads, the smaller and revived version of the piece that was started and not finished at the Rockefeller Centre in New York.

5.  Little Venice in the middle of Mexico City

Xochimilco was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, and its neighborhoods are full of tradition and respect for nature. It’s one of the most important tourist destinations in Mexico City, in which you float through canals in traditional trajinera boats. During the tour, you will come across boats with mariachis players, ‘ranchero’ trios, and marimbas, who will offer to play you a few songs and liven up your evening. Ask to visit the Island of Dolls, an eerie plot of land where dolls are hung from the trees. Its creation is attributed to Julián Santana Barrera, who is said to have used the dolls to scare away the spirit of a girl who drowned near the area.

6.  Explore incredible attractions after dark at the Museums at Night

Set aside the last Wednesday of every month to look around exhibitions in the city’s cultural hotspots at night. The Museum Night concept was born in Berlin around 1997, and it takes place every month in Mexico City, while in other cities, it happens more sporadically. Usually, these museums offer guided visits, tours, workshops, concerts, and other special activities on the night.

7.  Exercise in Chapultepec Forest

With more than 61000 visitors a day, Chapultepec Forest is one of our favorite places to roam when we’re free. As well as being home to museums and many places to relax, Mexico City’s biggest lung has 5 tracks where you can train and get in shape for free: El Sope, Circuito del Lago Mayor, Corre, Segundo Circuito, and Circuito Gandhi. Climb, bend and sweat till your last drop at these open-air gyms.

8.  Visit an old bookstore in the Historic Centre

Want to find a book that is already out of print? Looking for the first edition of your favorite novel? Want to add to your personal book collection but don’t have much budget? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, you will love this bookstore. A few steps from the Teatro de la Ciudad Esperanza Iris, you’ll find El Laberinto. Their stock list is extensive and very varied, and there is everything from Vladimir Nabokov and Agatha Christie to Chinese cookbooks and Jane Fonda’s entertainment handbook.

9.  Walk among pre-Hispanic deities

The Templo Mayor is home to the precious aspects of our history. When visiting this museum site, you stop in front of what was the great Tenochtitlan’s important temple. Among the 7000 remains found there in the late 70s, we invite you to discover the largest Mexican sculpture that has ever been found: the polychrome relief of the goddess of the Earth, Tlaltecuhtli. You will also stumble upon a large circular monolith that represents the Moon goddess, Coyolxauhqui.

10.  Enter the twilight zone of rum and cigars

The 3rd floor of Molière 48 is one of the most mysterious floors in Polanco. There is a red telephone booth that, with the correct number code (cigar), opens a door onto a terrace that leads to a rum, whisky, and cigar heaven. The sign on one of the walls reads, “Gentlemen, you may smoke”; in the specific smoking room, they sell cigars from brands like Vegas Robaina de San Luis, Flor de Las Antillas, Toro Gordo, Cohiba, and many more from various tobacco brands from all over the world. If your bank balance is big enough, ask for a private cellar to store your purchases.

11.  Open your heart to the pleasure that is university theater

University is a hotspot for crazy ideas; it’s where talent emerges and philosophers of the future mature. The National Autonomous University of Mexico is also one of the most important cultural projects in the history of the country. For that reason, the plays performed at the UNAM Theatre are a great opportunity to see classic texts adapted to unlikely modern-day situations, avant-garde visual approaches, and to discover upcoming actors. Amén University Theatre Thursdays are when $30 tickets are sold at every theatre in the UNAM. Whatsmore, you don’t have to be a student to get tickets at that price!

12.  Medieval style diner and magic show

The Mesón del Cid is a themed restaurant that was founded in 1972, which is in the style of a castle with dark varnishes, colored stained glass windows, armor, stately elegance, and many a story to tell. As well as trying the rustic and traditional Spanish cuisine, which features suckling pig, mushrooms, cheeses, and homemade bread, Fridays include a bit of magic that El Mago Hir oversees. Saturdays are the medieval nights that start at 8:30 pm. 

13.  Buy antiques at La Lagunilla

La Lagunilla is one of the most famous open-air markets in Mexico City. Every Sunday, hundreds of sellers arrive at 6 am to set up their stalls in the streets of the Morelos district, very close to Tepito. Here you will find all sorts of items, clothes, and vintage furniture, from 70s record players to analog cameras, paintings from the beginning of the previous century, and games that will bring back memories from your childhood.

14.  See if you can find the entrance to one of the best speakeasy bars in town

Even if you explored all of Juárez, shop by shop, house by house, you would never guess the entrance to the Hanky Panky Cocktail Bar. We’ll give you a few clues, but first, you must do your part and make a reservation through Facebook or the phone to find out the address. To get in, you have to find your way to the back of a food business shop, where a hidden door will take you into the bar; if you’re on the list. Let the bartenders do what they do best at the bar, and make sure you try the food from chef Maycol Calderón.

15.  Celebrate the dead in the Megaofrenda of the Main Square

Day of the Dead is one of the most important traditions in Mexico. On the 1st and 2nd of April, we wait for the deceased and prepare offerings with ‘pan de muerto’, traditional food, corpse figures, marigold flowers, candles, and tissue paper with elaborate cut-out designs. One of the most iconic celebrations is the Megaofrenda in the Zócalo (Main Square), and every year it has a different theme. 

16.  Explore the Foro Sol during Vive Latino

The Ibero-American Festival of Musical Culture Vive Latino is one of the most anticipated events in Mexico. Each year, young people from every state come together in the Foro Sol to experience two days dedicated to cinema, music, and art. Important national bands have performed here, such as Café Tacvba, Natalia Lafourcade, Los ángeles azules and Zoé, as have international stars such as Los fresones rebeldes, Morrissey, The National, Los Fabulosos Cadillacs and Blur. It’s the longest-running music festival in Mexico.

17.  Recovery Brunch at the world’s favorite bar: Fifty Mils

Renowned as one of the best bars in the world, the Fifty Mils bar has done more than most to completely revolutionize the concept of brunch in this part of the world. It isn't cheap, but food this good rarely is, especially when you consider the location, surroundings, and all-around excellence of the package. If this isn't a magic cure for a hangover, we don't know what is. 

18.  Discover new bands at the Nrmal Festival

This small festival doesn’t ask for anything from giants like Corona Capital. Nrmal was born in Monterrey, but it officially moved to Mexico City in 2014. What makes it famous is the curating of its lineup, as each year it features many experimental artists - it doesn’t matter if you don’t know who’s playing - such as The Black Angels, A Place To Bury Strangers or Health. Every March, the Deportivo del Estado Mayor Presidencial is full of characters with outfits that make us feel like we’re at the Met Gala.

19.  Watch a film at the Cineteca Nacional

This cinematographic center opened its doors in 1974. After various incidents, it was redeveloped in 2012 and became one of the best places to enjoy cinema in Mexico City. It offers everything from commercial films to a wide range of options dedicated to arthouse films, cinema cycles, and alternative cinema.

20.  A romantic night at the Lanchacinema

On the first Saturday of every month, the Chapultepec forest lake has a cinema screening which you can enjoy from the comfort of a boat. You will test your senses (and concentration) as you have to watch the film while the lake’s waters keep the boat moving.

This activity lends itself to spending a romantic night with your partner, so prepare a picnic basket, grab a blanket and rediscover Mexico City’s green lung while watching your favorite film.

21.  An installation which will soak you in water

It’s one of the best-kept secrets in the Chapultepec Forest. For many centuries, the Cárcamo de Dolores was the main source of fresh water in the city. In 1951, the Mexican artist Diego Rivera paid it a tribute with his mural El agua, origen de la vida, which decorates the pump building. The pump was conceived to collect and distribute water from the Lerma river, but it became less important when the water in the walls increased. These days, the sound installation Cámara Lambdoma (by Ariel Guzik) allows you to listen to the running water while admiring Rivera’s mural.

22.  Sing along to your favourite band at Corona Capital

Corona Capital could be considered the first big international music festival which started to bring artists to Mexico that we thought we’d never see. Every year, at curve 4 of the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, more than 85 000 people gather to listen to the bands and their music. During its first editions, we saw huge artists such as Pixies, Echo and The Bunny Men, James, Mogwai, Portishead, and The Strokes. Over the past few years, The XX., Foo Fighters, Muse, and PJ Harvey have all played. There’s nothing like seeing your favorite band while enjoying a cold beer.

23.  Have dinner in the middle of the city’s green lungs

A moonlit picnic in which you breathe fresh air, dine and listen to music in the 5.3 hectares of land which make up the Botanical Gardens of the Chapultepec Forest, considered the oldest urban park in America. You prepare your own menu and bring whatever takes your fancy, but if you want to surprise your date, you can buy a picnic basket for $300, which includes a bottle of red wine, a tablecloth, LED candles, plastic glasses, two ciabattas, two apples, and chocolates. Entry is free, and you don’t need to reserve, but arrive early to make sure you get a comfortable spot.

24.  Take a spin class at altitude

Imagine exercising at more than 200m above sea level? Stop just dreaming about it and get yourself on a fixed bike in one of the special classes organized by Fitspin, which takes place at the highest point of several skyscrapers in Mexico City. As well as burning 700 calories, and working your legs, glutes, abdomen, and chest during the 50-minute session, you will also witness one of the best views in the whole of the city. There isn’t a fixed timetable for these classes, but we recommend you keep checking social media to find out about upcoming dates.

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Visiting Mexico City: Top 45 Amazing Things to Do and See!

45 best things to do in mexico city: all best places to visit.

You’re planning to visit Mexico City on your next trip?

Great idea!

Mexico City , also known as DF (Federal District) or CDMX, is the capital of Mexico . It is surrounded by several mountain ranges at an altitude of 2250 m.

It has a rich and fascinating history. It was founded in the 14th century by the Mexica as Mexico-Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec empire . It was conquered by the Spaniards in 1521, who built Mexico City on its ruins. It was the capital of New Spain until the end of the War of Independence in 1821.

Today, Mexico City is a vibrant, historic, and modern city with so much to offer visitors!

Here is my guide to Mexico City with the 37 best places to visit and things to do , including activities for the whole family. You’ll find my best tips and advice to make the most of your next visit to the capital.

I also suggest some itineraries to visit Mexico City in 1, 2, 3 and 4 days , along with my best hotel recommendations for all budgets. In short, everything you need to know to plan your trip!

And now, are you ready to discover what to do in Mexico City?

The best tours in Mexico City

1. plaza de la constitución, 2. the templo mayor, 3. colegio de san ildefonso, 4. latin american tower, 5. attending the ballet folklorico de mexico show, 6. the palace of fine arts in mexico, 7. alameda central, 8. franz mayer museum, 9. kaluz museum, 10. casa de los azulejos, 11. francisco i. madero street, 12. national museum of art (munal), 13. la opera bar, 14. the mariachis of plaza garibaldi, 15. tequila and mezcal museum, 16. watching a lucha libre fight, 17. celebrating the day of the dead, 18. taste the diversity and flavor of mexican cuisine, 19. the roma and condesa neighbourhoods, 20. plaza de las tres culturas, 21. basilica of our lady of guadalupe, 22. museum of popular art, 23. san juan market, 24. monument to the revolution, 25. zona rosa, 26. ángel de la independencia and paseo de la reforma, 27. glorieta de los insurgentes, 28. chapultepec castle, 29. bosque de chapultepec, 30. national museum of anthropology, 31. polanco.

• 32. Coyoacán and the House of Frida Kahlo

33. Azteca Stadium

34. san angel and chimalistac, 35. trajinera ride in xochimilco, 36. the archaeological site of teotihuacan, 37. fly over teotihuacan, 38. exploring the great works of muralism, 39. discovering street art, 40.  chocolate museum, 41. museum of antique mexican toys, 42. papalote children’s museum, 43. natural history museum, 44. six flags park, 45. universum, what to do in mexico city in 1 day, 2 days in mexico city, 3 days in mexico city, 4 days in mexico city, staying in mexico city, where to buy souvenirs in mexico city, rent a car in mexico city, getting around mexico city, how to find the best price for your flight ticket, how to get from mexico city airport to your hotel, where to change money in mexico city, when to visit mexico city, tourist map of mexico, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you.

If you don’t have time to read the article (although I recommend it so you can discover all the activities!), here is a summary of the best tours to do in Mexico City.

The good thing is that for all the activities I have suggested in this article, you can cancel them at no cost.

Just click on the name of the ticket to book it:

Visiting Mexico City: The 45 must-see tourist attractions

The   Zócalo or Plaza de la Constitución has been declared a Unesco World Heritage Site .

It is the largest square in Latin America and a major tourist attraction in Mexico City, because it houses all the main buildings of the capital.

Here is what to see in the Zócalo , one of the most important tourist attractions in Mexico City :

• The Metropolitan Cathedral: It  is the Largest cathedral in Latin America and one of the most important catholic buildings in the world. An imposing building with fourteen chapels, it was built over the ruins of the Templo Mayor of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan. Admission is free , but I recommend you visit the cathedral’s bell towers for 30 pesos.
• National Palace: has been the seat of government since Aztec times (even Montezuma’s palace was there!). Part of the building has been transformed into a museum and houses frescoes by Diego Rivera such as “The History of Mexico” . Free admission, but ID is required.
• The Old Portal of Merchants: Occupies one side of the square with several commercial buildings dating back to the 16th century. Here you can find shops, hotels, and luxury restaurants.

Just behind the cathedral is the “ Templo Mayor”, which was the main temple of the city of Tenochtitlan.

However, it wasn’ t until the late 1970s that its location was accidentally discovered during construction work – can you imagine, the pyramid was 45 metres high!

To better understand the importance of the Templo Mayor, you can visit the museum, which has many pre-Hispanic objects, such as the monolith of Coyolxauhqui, the goddess of the moon.

• It’s open every day (except Mondays) from 9am to 5pm. Admission is 90 pesos.
• Get your Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket to Templo Mayor here!

The Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso was one of the largest educational institutions in New Spain .

Years later it became a preparatory school and later a university. Great figures such as Frida Kahlo studied there. And it was precisely there that she met Diego Rivera , who went to paint his first mural “La Concepción” in the Teatro Simón Bolívar .

There are also works by great artists such as Jean Charlot, Fernando Leal, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Ramón Alva de la Canal, Fermín Revueltas and José Clemente Orozco.

My advice  Orozco’s “ Cortés and La Malinche ” (1926) is one of many works not to be missed. The mural depicts Hernán Cortés and La Malinche, two key figures in Mexican history at the time of the conquest.

Cortés was the leader of the invasion of ancient Mexico and La Malinche was his slave and interpreter. Although their relationship remains highly controversial, the play represents the country’s mestizo identity.

• Address: Justo Sierra 16, Historic Centre of Mexico.
• Open Tuesday – Sunday from 11 am to 6pm (last admission is at 5.30 pm)
• Admission is 50 pesos

Taking the pedestrian street Madero from the Zócalo, you will arrive at the “ Latin American Tower “one of the city’s tallest skyscrapers in the city .

The ascent to the observation deck is definitely one of the main tourist attractions in Mexico City .

Here is what you will find:

• 36th floor: Bicentennial Museum (20 pesos adults, 10 pesos children)
• 37th floor: café and souvenir shop
• 38th floor: permanent exhibition “The city and the tower through the centuries”
• 40th floor: a modern bar called “40th floor” ideal for a drink in the evening
• 41st floor: restaurant-bar Miralto with large windows to enjoy a magnificent view while having a bite to eat.
• 42nd and 43rd floors: two spaces with large windows and temporary exhibitions.
• 44th floor: the mirador latino , an open terrace with the best view!

The Ballet Folklorico de Mexico is a must-see show in Mexico City !

It presents legends, dances, songs and traditions from different states of Mexico through a colourful show in the famous Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts).

• You can buy your tickets for the show here! (hotel pick-up included)

My tip Those who know me know that I always fall asleep during shows (yes, even in front of Cirque du Soleil 😆- it’s my inner granny). But there is one exception: this folk show.

A few metres from the Torre Latino is the Palace of Fine Arts, a magnificent building built in the early 1900s.

The imposing exterior is in the style of  art nouveau and the interior is art deco . It was made of white Italian marble and houses paintings  done  by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, José Clemente Orozco and Rufino Tamayo . A real jewel to visit in Mexico City .

Inside the palace you can find the Museum of Fine Arts (85 pesos, Sundays free), the Museum of Architecture (55 pesos, Sunday free) and the theatre where the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico performs.

• Address : Avenida Juárez corner Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas, Mexico. Tue – Sun from 10am to 6pm. Website

In front of the Palace of Fine Arts is the Alameda Central, the oldest public park in Mexico and the Americas (1592), with its benches, fountains and impressive sculptures.

Nearby is Diego Rivera’s mural museum (admission 45 pesos, Sunday free), with his work entitled “ Sueño de una Tarde Dominical en la Alameda Central ” (Dream of a Sunday afternoon in the Alameda Central).

• Laboratorio Arte Alameda (entrance 45 pesos, Sunday free) with contemporary exhibitions in a former church.
• La Azotea de Barrio Alameda , a terrace on the top floor of the Barrio Alameda building. It’s worth going up (there’s no elevator) to enjoy the view with a coffee, or a cocktail depending on the time of day. I’ve heard that on weekends, the wait can be long, but I’ve always gone in the morning on weekdays, and there’s hardly anyone there. It’s my little oasis in the chaos of the center. ❤️

The Franz Mayer Museum boasts Latin America’s most extensive decorative arts collection .

Franz Mayer gathered an eclectic mix of artworks, books, furniture, and more, mostly from Mexico but also from Europe and Asia, spanning from the 15th to the 20th centuries.

The collection features unique handcrafted pieces, including textiles and Talavera pottery, often overlooked in historical preservation.

Nestled in Mexico City’s historic heart, the museum is set in an 18th-century building , once the San Juan de Dios monastery and hospital.

While it displays only a fraction of Mayer’s finds, the museum continues to expand its collection, offer workshops, and host temporary exhibits. It also has a charming café in the courtyard.

It may not be the most famous or largest museum in the capital, but for me, it’s one of the most beautiful museums in Mexico City!

You can get your tickets to the Franz Mayer Museum here:

Housed in a magnificent historic building, it exhibits Mexican art from the 18th to the 21st century.

You can climb up to the rooftop terrace for a drink, coffee or bite to eat. You can even see the Torre Latinoamericana from the terrace.

• 10-18h, closed Tuesdays
• entrance 90 pesos for foreigners, 60 pesos for Mexicans

The Casa de los Azulejos (House of Tiles) or Casa de los Condes del Valle de Orizaba is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful buildings in Mexico City .

It is easily recognized by its unique blue façade, entirely covered in Talavera pottery from Puebla .

Don’t miss the opportunity to enter and see the interior . There is currently a Sanborns (store and restaurant), but even without consuming anything, you can climb to the second floor to enjoy a beautiful view.

It’s on Calle Francisco Madero, a stone’s throw from the Palacio de Bellas Artes, so you’re sure to find it on your way!

This important pedestrian street is a must-see in Mexico City, because in addition to being an important shopping area , it links the Palace of Fines Arts Artes to the Zócalo.

On this street, you can visit:

• the Torre Latinoamericana observation deck
• the Temple of San Francisco
• Palacio de Iturbide (one of my favorite spots in downtown Mexico City!)
• Estanquillo Museum
• MUMEDI (Mexican design museum)

My advice There are always a lot of people on this street, so I recommend keeping an eye on your belongings, especially when waiting at corners to cross the street.

Mind you, I’m not saying it’s a dangerous place, but the more people there are, the happier the pickpockets will be 😉 .

A few steps away from Bellas Artes, in front of the Manuel Tolsá Square, you will be able to see a building that is considered one of the most important architectural works of the early 20th century in the country.

It is true that the building (inside and out) is a real work of art – I was really impressed!

It houses an art collection of 3000 pieces (16th to 20th centuries).

• Address : Calle de Tacuba 8, Historic Centre of Mexico City. Admission is $85 pesos. Tue – Sun from 10am to 5:30pm. Web Site

La Ópera is a historic cantina in Mexico City, famous for the bullet Pancho Villa left in its roof.

The story goes that, in the midst of the revolution, Pancho Villa came in with his men and shot through the roof of the cantina because no one was listening to him.

Honestly, I don’t know if this is true or just a legend, but what is certain is that this place is a veritable institution , which has been frequented by many illustrious figures.

It was founded by two French sisters named Boulangeot in 1876, inspired by the cafés and tearooms of Paris. They moved to the present location in 1895, a stone’s throw from the Latin American Tower and the Palacio de Bellas Artes.

Because of its location and notoriety, I thought La Ópera was going to be one of those overrated, touristy places that rely solely on their glorious past, but I took advantage of my mother’s visit to Mexico City to go there: what a pleasant surprise I had!

It’s a real immersion in the past, with an Art Nouveau interior, wallpaper from the time of Porfirio Diaz, an imposing bar imported from New Orleans , wooden furniture with red velvet seats, and walls covered with photos that bear witness to its illustrious past.

The waiters were friendly, the food was good (although it was not unforgettable, but I remember the dishes were decent).

As I was with my mother, I paid for a few songs to the musicians and it was definitely worth it to complete the experience.❤️

My mother was delighted, took lots of pictures and still talks about the La Opera bar as one of her best memories of her trip to Mexico City.

The next time I roam in the center, I’ll definitely come back for a drink (but maybe not for food) and enjoy the interior. It’s a little gem.

• Av. 5 de Mayo #10, Historic Center of Mexico City Mon-Sat 1pm-11pm, Sun 1pm-6pm

La Plaza Garibaldi is the best place to see mariachis in Mexico City.

Singers and musicians happily dress in traditional Mexican mariachi garb to perform a variety of songs, allowing themselves to be photographed and videotaped by tourists and onlookers (be prepared to tip!).

The atmosphere is certainly particular, as Garibaldi is a very popular place, and although you will often come across drunken characters, especially on weekends, it is undoubtedly a real institution in the capital.

In my opinion, this is one of the most important places to visit in Mexico City!

The best thing you can do to enjoy Garibaldi is to relax on a terrace and enjoy the music. I recommend the Salon Tenampa,   a traditional Mexican cantina (1925).

My advice In terms of safety, it’s definitely better to go to Plaza Garibaldi during the day, although its atmosphere is really at night .

If you decide to go at night, it is best to take a taxi directly to the place and avoid walking through the surrounding streets .

A good option to enjoy the mariachis safely is to join this mariachis and lucha libre tour that includes a visit to cantinas (traditional bars) and a wrestler mask!

Book it here:

The Museo de la Tequila y del Mezcal is located on the Plaza Garibaldi, with 2 rooms, one dedicated to tequila and mezcal , the other to the history of mariachis and the Plaza Garibaldi .

Your ticket also includes a tasting of 3 types of Tequila and 2 Mezcals.

You can get your ticket here:

Along with the mariachis the Lucha Libre is, without a doubt, the other image that forms part of the collective imagination when one thinks of Mexico.

The origin of mexican professional wrestling dates back to the french intervention in Mexico inspired by Greco-Roman wrestling (1861-1867).

The famous masks came later, at the beginning of the 20th century. Most of them represent gods, historical heroes, animals and other characters that are proudly embodied by the wrestlers.

What an electrifying atmosphere! These are the places to visit in Mexico City to enjoy  the Lucha Libre:

• Arena Mexico: Also known as the Cathedral o f Lucha Libre , it is a huge venue with a capacity to hold up to 16 000 spectators . It w as built in the fifties and it is here that you can see the greatest Mexican wrestlers . Wrestling: Tuesday 19h30, Friday 20h30 and Sunday 17h. Address: Dr. Lavista 187, Doctores, Mexico City.
• Arena Coliseo : It is older and smaller than Arena Mexico , which is why its counterpart was built. Today, many spectators still flock to watch the fights. Fights: Saturdays 19h30 . Address: República de Perú 77, Downtown Mexico City.

If you haven’t already bought a mask at the market, you’re sure to find some for sale outside the arenas.

• You can only take pictures of the fight with your phone, as cameras are prohibited.
• Rows 1 to 3 are forbidden for minors.

My advice The arenas are located in areas that are not exactly known for their safety , especially at night , so on your way out, avoid staying too long, walk around the area and quickly hail a taxi .

You can book your ticket for the wrestling show , which includes pick-up from the historic centre with a guide, entrance, a wrestler’s mask and a shot of tequila !

The Day of the Dead is an important tradition that is part of Mexico’ s popular culture .

If you are in Mexico City between 31 October and 2 November, you can attend the big Day of the Dead parade , or see the beautiful offerings in the neighbourhood of Coyoacán .

Mexico City is a gastronomic paradise, where you can enjoy the rich and diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine, which was recognized as UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage !

But don’t just take my word for it: experience it for yourself with a food tour that will take you to the best places to eat , drink, and learn about Mexican food culture.

I’ve done a lot of food tours in Mexico City , but this one is my favorite  ❤️:

It’s a bike tour that combines delicious food and fun sights through the Roma, Condesa, and Chapultepec Park .

You’ll start with coffee and pan dulce in Condesa , then ride to Roma for tamales. You’ll visit a market and Parque Mexico for more snacks. You’ll finish with churros and drinks in Condesa. The guides are awesome and will share tips and stories along the way.

It’s a great way to experience the authentic Mexican food culture! Book it here:

My advice Do you want to discover more of Mexico City’s delicious food scene? Don’t miss the opportunity to join these other great food tours:

• Explore the colorful markets of La Merced and Sonora, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce to exotic spices. Don’t miss the impressive Santa Muerte  shrine – Book the market tour here!
• Cook your own Mexican feast in a fun cooking class. You’ll learn how to make various dishes from scratch and enjoy them afterwards – Book your cooking class here !
• Experience the cantina culture of downtown Mexico City (traditional taverns), where you’ll sample tasty snacks and drinks (mezcal, tequila, etc.) in traditional taverns – Book your cantina tour now!

For me, they are the most attractive neighbourhoods in Mexico City!

You can find beautiful streets with big trees, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Modernist style houses, along with art galleries, shops, cafés, restaurants and trendy bars, all in a very bohemian atmosphere.

If there is a difference to be made, I would say that La Roma is more rebellious and La Condesa has more style. In both you will find good examples of urban art from Mexico .

Go to the Mercado Roma , to the Medellin Market or to the La Condesa tianguis (street market) .

There are several places you should not miss: Alvaro Obregón street, Plaza Luis Cabrera, Cibeles Fountain, Jardín Pushkin, Avenida Amsterdam, Parque México, Plaza Río de Janeiro, Parque España, Fuente de Cibeles

The Plaza de las Tres Culturas (Place of the Three Cultures) owes its name to the presence of elements of 3 cultures:

• Tenochtitlan culture: pyramids and Aztec ruins. Here was the famous Tlatelolco market, with products from all over Mesoamerica!
• Spanish culture : The church and convent of Santiago from colonial times.
• Modern Mexican culture : Tlatelolco Tower where the University Cultural Centre and the UNAM’s 68th anniversary memorial are located .

It is quite unusual to see all this in the same place. It is a good idea to have a guide to understand its importance and transcendence.

• Address: Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas corner Flores Magón, Nonoalco, Tlatelolco, Mexico City. Open every day from 8 am to 5 pm. Admission is 75 pesos. Web site

With around 20 million visitors a year, it is the most visited Catholic monument after St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

The basilica is dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe, the patron saint of Mexico City, Mexico, and Latin America . It is definitely a place to see and visit in Mexico City !

There are two main buildings: The old basilica, completed in 1709, and the new basilica,   completed in 1976 because the old building threatened to collapse due to subsidence of the ground .

Today, the building has been reinforced, but as soon as you enter, you can feel the pressure of the structure, it is impressive!

The new basilica is a modern structure that can accommodate up to 40,000 people . Masses are celebrated all day long. You have to go down to see the most important relic of the place: the ayate de Tepeyac with the image of the Virgin .

Also located on the site are: The Parish of Santa Maria de Guadalupe, “Capuchinas”, the Capilla del Pocito (Chapel of the Little Well)  and the Old Parrish of the Indians.

• Address: Plaza de Las Americas 1, Villa de Guadalupe, Gustavo A. Madero, Mexico City. Free admission

Right in front of the Alameda Central is located an important art deco style building called Museo de Arte Popular.

It contains 2600 pieces of mexican folk art (ceramics, silver, wood, glass, paper, etc.) classified by themes: fantasy, roots of popular art, daily life, and the sacred, as well as a room with temporary exhibitions.

• Address: Revillagigedo 11, Colonia Centro. Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm
• Admission is 60 pesos, with free admission for children under 18 and seniors, and free admission on Sundays

Located in the heart of the city center and with 150 years of existence, this is one of the oldest markets in the Mexican capital, which has become an important place to visit in Mexico City for food lovers.

If you have a curious palate, this is the place to visit because, in addition to the usual products, you will find several exotic meats such as ostrich, iguana, crocodile, paca (a large rodent that lives in tropical areas of America), armadillo and even skunk.

And even more: you can find a huge multitude of insects! Scorpions, crickets ( chapulines ), agave worms (or maguey worms), frogs, snails, and others that have been eaten since pre-Hispanic times .

Not feeling so adventurous? Then you can choose from one of the kiosks selling cheese and charcuterie. I ‘ve made some interesting discoveries of Mexican cheeses and charcuteries, which you can taste on the spot, accompanied by a good glass of wine with mexican cheeses on site!

• Address: 2ᵃ Calle de Ernesto Pugibet 21, Colonia Centro, Mexico City. Monday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m

From the Alameda Central taking the Avenida Juárez after the Avenida de la República one comes across an impressive structure located in the centre of the Plaza de la Republica : the Monumento a la Revolucion.

It is a mausoleum dedicated to the heroes of the Mexican Revolution, among them, Pancho Villa. It is considered the highest triumphal arch in the world.

You will also find: the Museum of the Revolution with a collection of 400 pieces, the panoramic elevator, the intermediate viewpoint (65.7 m) to admire the 360º view and the Lantern with a fantastic view of the surroundings .

When night falls, don’t miss the play of water and lights of the Centennial Fountain in the Plaza de la República.

• Address: Plaza de la República, Mexico City.
• Admission is 120 pesos or 100 pesos for children under 13 years old
• Open Monday to Thursday from 12h to 20h, Friday to Saturday from 12h to 21h, and Sunday from 11h to 20h

Located in Colonia Juárez, the zona Rosa of Mexico City is one of the most touristy and lively corners of the capital.

In fact, it has several hotels, restaurants, galleries and exchange offices, although people tend to go there mainly for partying, it also has several cabarets, discos and bars to suit all tastes.

This is the gay district of Mexico City , located mainly around Amberes St. If you are looking for atmosphere, the Zona Rosa will not disappoint you!

The Angel of Independence at Paseo de la Reforma is one of the great symbols of Mexico City.

Inaugurated in 1910 for the centenary of the Mexican independence represents Niké, the Greek goddess of the Victory. It is a seven-ton bronze statue covered in twenty-four carat gold.

The Paseo de la Reforma is the most important avenue of the capital.

It has an extension of 15 km, connects several areas of the city, and is home to important sites of interest in Mexico City such as the Angel of Independence , the tallest skyscraper in Mexico City – Torre Reforma tower, the Diana Cazadora Fountain or the monument to Cuauhtémoc.

It is one of the main roundabouts in Mexico City , located at the intersection of Chapultepec and Insurgentes avenues.

It is a large pedestrian area that connects the Zona Rosa with the colonia Roma Norte through ten passageways.

It contains several small shops and the Insurgentes metro station . Sooner or later, we all end up passing through there!

The Castillo de Chapultepec was the residence of emperor Maximilian and his wife Carlota in  1864.

The castle contains furniture, tapestries, gardens, 17th and 18th century paintings, works by Orozco and Siqueiros (artists of Mexican muralism),  and the National Museum of History .

From the castle you have a great view of Mexico City!

• Admission is 90 pesos, and free for children under 13 years and adults over 60 years old
• Open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9am to 5pm.

You can also book your visit to Chapultepec Castle and the Museum of Anthropology , including guide and tickets, here:

The Chapultepec Park, also called Bosque de Chapultepec, is an immense green space of 500 hectares that includes a hill.

It is the second largest urban park in Latin America and has several sculptures, fountains, gardens, a lake, restaurants, and museums.

This is what you can see in Chapultepec :

• Chapultepec Castle: a magnificent 18th century palace on top of the hill, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding area .
• National Museum of Anthropology : one of the most important museums of the American continent, it has an immense collection on the different cultures of Mesoamerica and the indigenous peoples of present-day Mexico. Buy your tickets here!
• Museum of Modern Art : has a collection of modern Mexican art (from 1895 to 1955), as well as temporary exhibitions . Admission 70 pesos. Open Tue-Sun from 10.15 am to 5.30 pm. Website
• Museo de arte contemporáneo Rufino Tamayo : a collection of 315 works by the most renowned artists of the second half of the 20th century, such as Picasso and Miró . It also hosts temporary exhibitions. Admission: $85 pesos. Website
• Botanical Garden: Where you will find beautiful examples of cacti, agaves, and orchids.
• Natural History Museum : dedicated to biodiversity . Open Tue-Sun from 10 h to 5pm. Admission $32 pesos, $15.00 pesos for children from 3 to 12 years old, and free admission for adults over 60 years old and children under 3 years old . Website
• Centro Cultural Casa del Lago : located in a building near the lake, it houses a small gallery, and offers shows and special events . Open Tue-Sun, from 11am to 6pm. Website
• The National Auditorium: it is considered one of the most important performance halls in the world and can hold up to 10000 people.

Love at first sight! With its 23 rooms for exhibits on 8 acres, this is the largest museum in Mexico and one of the most important museums in the world.

The museum is divided into two sections: the archaeological collection and the ethnography collection.

• The archaeology collection includes artifacts from the different cultures that have formed Mexico, divided into different rooms: the American settlement, the preclassic period of the Central Altiplano, Teotihuacan , the Toltecs, Mexicas (Aztecs), the Oaxacan Cultures, the Gulf Coast cultures, the Mayas, the Western cultures, and the Northern cultures.
• The ethnographic collection I found was the most interesting, as it allows you to understand the cultural identity of the indigenous peoples that make up Mexico, with their way of life, their traditional clothing and textiles, handicrafts, beliefs, agriculture, and much more!

There is also a collection of very impressive artifacts such as:

• The Sun Stone (cuauhxicalli), one of the most famous works of Aztec art.
• A replica of Montezuma’s headdress , the feathered crown of Montezuma II
• The statue of Xochipilli , a statue carved around the 16th century representing the Aztec goddess of art, games and dance.
• The replica of the Tomb of King Pakal (Mayan governor, “K’inich Janaab Pakal I”), the original being located in Palenque , Chiapas . There is a magnificent jade mask and several objects that were also uncovered when the mausoleum was discovered in 1952.
• The Mayan Hall contains several reproductions such as the Chac Mool of Chichen Itza , paintings of Bonampak, or the temple of Hochob in the region of Campeche in the garden .

You cannot understand the scale and richness of this museum before setting foot in it. In fact, it deserves the top position of places to see and visit in Mexico City !

Book your visit to the anthropology museum

To enjoy the anthropology museum to the fullest, these are the 4 different tickets you can pick from ( click on the tour name to book it )

• Open Tue-Sat from 10am to 5pm (I suggest you arrive at 10am because there is so much to see). Web site

Polanco is the elegant neighborhood of Mexico City. There are embassies, restaurants, boutiques and hotels, luxury, but also beautiful green areas. A safe and pleasant place to walk in Mexico City .

Here’s what to do and see in Polanco :

• Museo Soumaya: a free museum with unique architecture. It has a collection of 66,000 pieces done by great painters and sculptors, truly a must-see in Mexico City!
• Museo Jumex : the largest private collection of contemporary art in Latin America!
• Shopping : Avenida Presidente Masaryk is one of the most expensive streets in the capital. It is home to several luxury boutiques. Also visit the Palacio de Hierro and the Antara Shopping Mall .

32. Coyoacán and t he House of Frida Kahlo

 Coyoacán is one of my favorite places in the city!

It is a traditional neighborhood of cobblestone streets and small plazas with churches.

It has a bohemian atmosphere, with many cafes, art galleries, cultural centers, and restaurants. Coyoacán is better known as the neighborhood of Frida Kahlo.

The area is frequented by artists and intellectuals, but also by families who, during the weekend, come to stroll through the different markets and enjoy the entertainment offered by street performers (mimes, clowns, etc.).

Here are some of the main tourist attractions of Coyoacán :

• Francisco Sosa Street: it links the Church of San Antonio de Padua with the Jardin del Centenario . There are several beautiful houses and important attractions including the Fonoteca Nacional , the Casa de Cultura Jesús Reyes de Heroles and the Plaza Santa Catarina.
• Plaza Jardín Hidalgo : is the second most visited place in the capital . It is home to the Jardín del Centenario and the Fuente de los Coyotes , the San Juan Bautista church, and the Museo Nacional de las Culturas Populares (National Museum of Popular Cultures).
• Frida Kahlo Museum : Frida’s famous Casa Azul ( blue house) where she lived with Diego Rivera. In addition to discovering the house and the objects of her daily life, you will be able to see part of her work and that of other artists who frequented the place.
• Viveros de Coyoacán : A large green space where a great variety of tree species grow for reforestation. It is an ideal place to walk, run, and get a good dose of oxygen.

Don’t forget to visit the local markets where you can find good, beautiful and cheap food, the small flowery streets, and the charming squares.

• Read more: Check out My  complete guide to visit Coyoacán with attractions, restaurants, and hotel recommendations!

My advice It is now mandatory to buy the tickets to Frida Kahlo’s Museum in advance and enter at the time on the ticket. You can book them here:

The Azteca Stadium is one of the most famous stadiums in the world .

It is the only one that has hosted two FIFA finals : Italy vs. Brazil in 1970 and Germany vs. Argentina in 1986 . It is possible to attend a match of Club America, the Mexico City team , or the Mexican national team called the Tricolor .

• You will find all the dates on the official website
• Address: Calz. de Tlalpan 3465, Coyoacan , Mexico.

In the same spirit as Coyoacán ( but less touristy) are the typical neighborhoods of San Ángel and Chimalistac . They are contiguous neighborhoods in the south of Mexico City with narrow, cobblestone and flowery streets, old buildings, plazas, gardens, and local markets .

What to see in San Angel:

• The architectural heritage, in baroque, neoclassical and neocolonial styles: Casa del Mayorazgo de los Fagoaga, Centro Cultural San Angel, Casa del Obispo Madrid, Casa de Chucho el Roto, Casa de la Plaza de los Licenciados, Casa de la Marquesa de Selva Nevada, Casa Blanca, Casa del Risco or Casa Azul (not to be confused with Frida’s Casa Azul).
• Casa del Risco: 18th century residence located in front of the San Jacinto Garden, which contains 600 pieces of sculpture and painting .
• Plaza del Carmen : a beautiful square, a meeting point for painters
• Museo del Carmen : with the most important collection of colonial religious art in Mexico .
• Casa Estudio Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo Museum

What to see  in Chimalistac:

• Walk along the beautiful Santa and Calle de Hipo streets
• Federico Gamboa Square (or Plaza Chimalistac)
• Cámara del Secreto: Also called Ermita del Secreto , it was built by the Carmelites in 1620 to provide a place to meditate or pray in total calmness .
• Casona de Chimalistac : an old house that holds numerous books and manuscripts on the history of Mexico .
• Table Park : a beautiful and peaceful green space

If you don’t want to miss any of these picturesque corners of Mexico City, you can take this guided tour of San Angel and Chimalistac that includes the pick up at your hotel:

I book the San Angel tour now! I want to visit San Angel and Chimalistac

Several centuries ago, different bodies of water covered the region.

In order to provide sustenance to the dense population, the A ztecs filled portions of the lake with chinampas, a  kind of artificial island that served for cultivation.

Over time, the lake became narrower and narrower and what remains of it today are the canals of Xochimilco .

Today you can tour the canals in one of the famous trajineras ( traditional and colorful wooden boats).

On your journey through the canals, you will find several boats with food and drink vendors and mariachis! Imagine the festive atmosphere (especially on weekends) a multitude of colorful boats and traditional Mexican music! It is a unique activity to do in Mexico City.

• Check out:  How to Visit Xochimilco (Mexico City): The Ultimate Guide!

Things to see also in Xochimilco:

• Xochimilco Market: the ideal place to go to buy fresh supplies much cheaper than in the canals .
• Isla de las Muñecas : an island open to the public where the hermit Julian Santana Barrera has collected thousands of dolls. It takes two hours to get there by boat.
• Dolores Olmedo Museum : The largest collection of Diego Rivera’s works located in a 17th century hacienda.

Beware of the price! Obviously you have to negotiate, but it is good to know that the government has set a maximum price per hour of $500 pesos, but prices are negotiated on the spot. It is not a price per person, but per boat, no matter the number of people.

My advice To visit Xochimilco you can get there by yourself (by Uber or 1h30 by metro – Xochimilco station) or opt for a guided tour of Xochimilco with transportation included and visit to Coyoacán :

You can book it here:

Built from the year 100, Teotihuacan was one of the largest cities of its time. At its peak, under the reign of the Aztec empire, it had up to 250,000 inhabitants! It had great commercial and political influence in Mesoameric a.

Today it is one of the main places to visit near Mexico City and one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico .

What to see in Teotihuacan:

• The Pyramid of the Sun , the highest of all (213 ft) and the Pyramid of the Moon ( 148 ft) 
• The Citadel, formed by the Great Plaza and the temple of Quetzalcoatl (or Temple of the Feathered Serpent), which was the heart of the city .
• The Avenue of the Dead
• The Palace of Quetzalpapálotl where the elite resided
• The Palace of the Jaguars and the Temple of the Feathered Snails
• The Teotihuacan Museum

Visiting Teotihuacan

• You can take a bus to Teotihuacan at Terminal del Norte, gate 8 (departures every 20 minutes. One hour trip, $50 pesos. Buy a round trip). It is best to arrive early because there is a lot to see.
• Opens daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
• Admission is 90 pesos. Includes the museum.

For the ultimate experience, you can fly over Teotihuacan in a hot-air balloon.

For around 45 minutes, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the entire archaeological zone and the Teotihuacan Valley.

Needless to say, since it’s no longer possible to climb to the top of the pyramids , places are going even faster, so I suggest you book well in advance to make sure you get the date you want.

My advice It’s important to choose carefully who you book with , making sure that the company is licensed and complies with safety standards.

Volare’s fleet of hot-air balloons is the most modern and safest in Mexico . It is nationally and internationally certified!

Activity includes hotel pick-up , coffee, breakfast, toast and flight certificate. Book it here:

Chances are you’ve already heard of Diego Rivera , Frida Kahlo’s husband.

He is one of the most recognized artists of Mexican muralism , along with José Clemente Orozco and David Alfaro Siqueiros , which is an artistic movement that developed in the early 20th century.

In downtown Mexico City you can find beautiful examples of muralist works, such as in the Secretaría de Educación Pública, the Colegio de San Ildefonso, and the Palacio Nacional.

Don’t miss Diego Rivera’s “The History of Mexico” at the National Palace!

If you are interested in art, I recommend you take the guided tour on Mexican muralism , which will allow you to learn a lot about this movement. Book it here:

Mexico City is far from being a gray city. On the contrary, it is a dynamic city where many Mexican and international artists decide to leave their colourful mark.

You can easily see beautiful examples of street art walking through the streets of the Colonias Roma, Condesa, Juarez, but also in other places like the historic centre, the Doctores, etc.

To discover the street art of Mexico City , its artists, and their messages, I suggest this guided bike tour that will take you through various areas of the capital. And you can also take the opportunity to try some street food!

The MUCHO is a museum dedicated to chocolate , offering a guided tour to discover its origins, the cultivation of cocoa, its importance to Mesoamerican cultures and its evolution up to its arrival in Europe.

There’s also a store selling top-quality handmade chocolates at an attractive price (ideal as a gift), but you’ll probably want to head to the museum’s café for a good chocolate because of the aroma that wafted through the air throughout the visit!

Buy your tickets for the Chocolate Museum here:

• Calle Milán 45, Colonia Juárez, México
• Open from 11am to 5pm

Family-friendly activities in Mexico City

Traveling as a family? Here’s what to do in Mexico City with kids :

MUJAM is an unusual, chaotic, yet fascinating museum.

There are 45,000 pieces spread over six rooms on several floors, with corners dedicated to Barbie, King Kong, dolls, robots, the circus, and wrestling. From small figures to large structures, there’s so much to look at!

Before leaving, don’t miss the parking lot decorated with impressive murals.

• Address: Dr. Olivera 15, Col. Doctores, Mexico City.
• Open Mon-Fri from 9 am to 6 pm, Sat from 9 am to 4 pm, and Sun from 10 am to 4 pm.
• Admission is 75 pesos

My advice You can walk around the area during the day, I didn’t have any problems, but it is perceived that the neighborhood (Colonia Doctores) is not as safe as its neighbor, La Roma .

Located in Chapultepec Park , the Papalote is a museum with exhibits on science, technology and art, designed especially for children .

There are around 288 interactive exhibits spread over six thematic rooms , each with a space dedicated to younger children (5 years old and under) . There is also a Mayan garden with a pyramid to explore.

In addition, the museum houses are some of the largest IMAX theaters in the world .

This is, without a doubt, the place to visit with children in Mexico City!

Also located in Chapultepec the museum contains about 2275 pieces related to biodiversity, and a collection of 55,000 insects.

But the big star! A replica of the skeleton of a Diplodocus carnegii, a dinosaur that lived in the western United States, 150 million years ago!

• Admission is 32 pesos, 15 pesos for children 3 to 12 years old

Here there are attractions for the whole family , some of them being very adrenaline-pumping (such as CraZanity, which breaks the world record for the highest pendulum in the world – 164ft!).

But there are also areas for children such as Bugs Bunny Boomtown and DC Super Friends.

• Click on the link to buy your Six Flags ticket with transportation (very convenient if you don’t have a car!)

A museum dedicated to science and technology , which belongs to the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). It has thirteen rooms with exhibits on different topics: health, evolution, the universe (there are moonstones that have been donated by NASA!), the brain, etc.

Also, don’t miss the Golem, a robot designed to interact with children.

• Admission is 90 pesos, 80 pesos for children under 12 years old , and children under 2 years old do not pay ticket.

How many days to visit Mexico City?

Mexico City is a huge city , even a month would not be enough to discover all it has to offer!

To help you make the most out of your stay in Mexico City, here are my suggested itineraries for visiting Mexico City in 1, 2, 3 and 4 days:

The Capital is immense and if you don’t have more than 1 day in Mexico City, you will have to choose.

Fortunately, with a little organization, you will be able to see several must-see sites.

• Early in the morning, head to the viewpoint of the Latin American Tower for a breathtaking view of the city.
• Take the pedestrian street Francisco I. Madero (on the way take a picture of the Casa de los Azulejos! ) to the Zocalo.
• Visit the Cathedral and take the tour of the Templo Mayor, everything is very close.
• Discover National Palace with works of great Mexican artists such as Diego Rivera.
• It should be lunchtime by now, so head over to the San Juan Market where you can sample the famous insects. If that doesn’t appeal to you, there are also several cheap kiosks (tacos, seafood, etc.). One block from the market is the Pulqueria Los Duelistas perfect for tasting some pulque, a traditional fermented drink.
• Then visit the magnificent Palace of Fine Arts and stroll through the Alameda Central. If you still have energy, visit the Museum of Popular Art.
• It’s time to leave the center to get to know the neighborhoods: Roma and Condesa. Feel free to get lost in these streets, among stores, cafes, and street art. This is the perfect place to have a drink at night.

Don’t miss my ultimate itinerary: 1 Day in Mexico City

On the first day, follow the suggested program above.

• On the morning of day two, go to Teotihuacan . This visit will take you all day, but it is really worth it, there is so much to see!
• After some rest (you’ll need it after Teotihuacan), go to a lucha libre fight !

Check out my detailed article: 2 Days in Mexico City

If you are looking for an itinerary in Mexico City for 3 days , you can follow the program for day 1 and 2:

• Spend the entire morning of the third day at the great National Museum of Anthropology
• Stroll through the Chapultepec Park and visit the Chapultepec Castle
• Now head south and discover the Coyoacán neighborhood , you are sure to find a nice restaurant for lunch
• Walk through its streets and squares, and don’t forget to visit the Frida’s  Casa Azul
• At night you will find many  very nice bars to have a drink

Check out my extensive article: 3 Days in Mexico City

To see Mexico City in 4 days, you can follow the program of day 1, 2 and 3. On the 4th day:

• In the morning, take a ride on a trajinera through the canals of Xochimilco
• In the afternoon, stroll through Coyoacán , the charming neighborhood of Frida Kahlo . Discover El Mercado de Coyoacán, the Jardín Centenario, the Jardín Hidalgo, and of course Frida’s Casa Azul (House and Museum).

You can get your tickets for Casa Azul (click here) or book the complete tour (click here) that includes the pick-up at your hotel, the ride on a trajinera through the canals of Xochimilco and the visit to the Frida Kahlo museum.

My advice: Don’t miss all the details in my 4-day itinerary in Mexico City !

• 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!

The best place to buy souvenirs in Mexico City is undoubtedly La Ciudadela, located in the center.

It’s a huge market selling souvenirs from all over Mexico (keychains, plates from Puebla, magnets, textiles from Tlaxcala, souvenirs with Frida Kahlo, lucha libre masks, typical Mexican sweets, alebrijes, etc.).

If you can’t find what you want at La Ciudadela Crafts Market , you won’t find it anywhere else – it’s that simple!

After visiting the market countless times (and getting lost every time with my amazing sense of direction 🤣), I can say that my 2 absolute must-stops are:

1) San Germán (aisle 1, room number 6): a real gem for beautiful handmade ceramic tableware (bowls, plates, etc.) straight from Tonalá ( Guadalajara region). This is quality, at a very fair price, and not the “Made in China” products you see elsewhere.

2) Ocelotl ( Instagram / Facebook) : a café and boutique where I love to stop for their “ café Ocelotl “, which resembles a traditional olla coffee, with orange zest and spices. When I need a little pick-me-up, I take the option with “piquete”, i.e. a drop of mezcal, and it’s delicious 😉

They have a very surprising collection of mezcals: with scorpion, snake and even mushrooms…

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

While it’s not super useful to visit the city, having a car is a must to discover the rest of the country.

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:

Turibus (hop on and off all day)

This is the city’s tourist bus. As there is a lot of walking in Mexico City so it is a good way to save a little energy and have easy access to the tourist sites of Mexico City .

• The Turibus offers 4 circuits in Mexico City that can be done with the same ticket.
• You can buy a one-day or two-day ticket, which allows you to get on and off the bus as many times as you want.

Buy your tickets here:

The Metrobus network is very extensive, with 7 lines and many lanes reserved for single use, making it a very convenient way to travel cheaply .

Relatively few tourists use the Metrobus, probably because it is hot and crowded (be careful with your pockets), however, it is a very practical option.

• Before boarding you must buy the Tarjeta de la Ciudad ( or MB ) for 21 pesos, which includes one ride, then you have to load it. Each trip costs 6 pesos
• The ride to the airport (Ruta Norte, line 4) costs 30 pesos
• You can download the Mexico City Metrobus map here .

I can’t deny it: it’s my favorite option!

Especially because Uber is usually cheaper and safer than regular cabs and they have always provided me with a good service .

It allows you to go almost everywhere safely (very useful especially at night!), and you can always see on the app’s map exactly where you are (and the route the car follows).

A public bike system (some are electric) that offers an ecological option to get to different places to visit in Mexico City . It has 480 bike stations with room for 6800 bikes in 38 km² .

First, register in the app, which you can download here [ Android – iPhone ], then go to a bike terminal (with a credit card). 

Ecobici offers a variety of short-term subscription options, beginning with a one-day plan for 118 peso s and extending to three days, one week, or annual plans. Prices include  unlimited use of bicycles  for trips of  maximum 45 min .

• Ecobici website

Mexico City Airport officially named Benito-Juárez International Airport receives a lot of national and international flights. It is the most important airport in Latin America!

To save money on flight tickets , you can use our flight comparator for Mexico, in partnership with Skyscanner: it’s the guarantee to pay the best price for your international and domestic flights!

There are several safe ways to get from the Benito Juarez International Airport to your hotel.

By private transportation

A good and safe option to get from the airport to the hotel is to book a private car with a driver. It can accommodate up to 3 people.

To book, click here:

Using Uber is a good way to go from Mexico City airport to your hotel. Just tell them which door to meet you at and watch carefully for your car, as it’s often busy there!

Metrobus (line 4)

• Buses arrive every 15 minutes from 4:30 am to midnight, for 30 pesos.
• Departures from Terminal 1 (between gates 6 and 7) or Terminal 2 (first floor, gate 3).
• Approximately 1 hour to reach the historic center. Beware, if you are not staying in the historic center you will have to change lines or take a cab, so it is not an option I recommend at night.

Official airport taxi

At the Mexico City airport there are several taxi companies. First you pay at the taxi stand and they tell you where the taxi waiting line.

Surprising but true, the best place to change money in Mexico City is the airport!

I have tested many money exchange offices in Mexico City and the airport always offers a slightly better rate.

• Be careful: this is not the case in other cities in Mexico, like Cancun airport for example.

One of the great advantages of the capital is that you can visit all year round!

• Winter is cool, but quite pleasant
• Summer , especially from June to September, is rainy, but not paralyzing. It can be quite gray (the sun appears for a few hours around noon) and rain falls almost every afternoon (around 4 p.m., rarely in the morning or for long). It’s the same almost every day, so it’s just a matter of being well organized.

The best time to visit Mexico City is from March to May when the city is at its most beautiful and flowery . It is not too hot and there is practically no rain.

November is also a good time to visit Mexico City because during the first two days of the month the famous Day of the Dead festivities are celebrated.

• To explore all the exciting activities in  Mexico City  during this time of year, be sure to check out  My Definitive Guide to the Day of the Dead!  

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
• 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
• 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
• How to Visit Xochimilco (Mexico City): The Ultimate Guide
• Coyoacán (Mexico City) : the Best Things to Do in Frida Kahlo’s Neighborhood
• Day of the Dead (Mexico) : How to Celebrate Día de Muertos Like a Local
• 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
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10 Best Places to Visit in Mexico City

Posted by Guest Blogger | Updated on Apr 17, 2024 | Published on Jan 17, 2024 | Mexico | 0

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.

Guest Post by Soumya Gayatri

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Mexico City, you’re in the right place.

With its rich and storied history, Mexico City is home to many iconic landmarks and well-known monuments. 

From the magnificent Metropolitan Cathedral in the Historic Center to the famous Frida Kahlo Museum in the quaint neighborhood of Coyoacan, the list of exciting places in Mexico City is endless. 

In this ultimate CDMX bucket list, we delve into the ten best places to visit in Mexico City. 

Centro Historico

One of the top places to visit in Mexico City is its historic center, Centro Historico. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Historic Center of Mexico City was built on the top of the ancient Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, by Spanish conquerors who took over Mexico in the 16th century.

Today, the Historic Center is home to the ruins of the Aztec temple called the Templo Mayor and several beautiful colonial buildings such as the Mexico City National Palace , the Palace of Fine Arts, and the Postal Palace. 

You’ll also find the largest cathedral in North America here. It is called the Metropolitan Cathedral. 

At the center is Mexico City’s main public square, the Zocalo, which is the perfect place for people-watching. Mexico City’s famous Day of the Dead celebrations are also held at the Zocalo.

Best things to do in the Historic Center of Mexico City

• Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral for its churrigueresque-style altars with elaborate ornamentation and decorative detailing. 
• Join a guided tour of Mexico City National Palace and see some of Diego Rivera’s best murals. The massive “History of Mexico” mural, depicting Mexico’s ancient, colonial, and modern histories is a highlight.
• Explore the ruins of Tenochtitlan and see what remains of Templo Mayor, the main Aztec temple.
• Head to Palacio Bellas Artes or the Palace of Fine Arts for more murals by the Mexican mural masters, including Diego Rivera. Watch a folkloric ballet for a deep dive into Mexican culture.
• Climb up to the observation deck of Torre Latino Americana for splendid views of the historic center and beyond.

The best way to explore the treasures of the historic center is on a Mexico City walking tour , where a knowledgeable guide gives rich insights into the history of the city and its important landmarks.

Coyoacan is a quaint Mexico City borough known for its association with the famous Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. 

Frida Kahlo was born in Coyoacan and lived and died here. Casa Azul, the blue-colored house of Frida Kahlo, is now a museum where you can find her paintings, personal memorabilia, and photographs.

Frida Kahlo Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico City. It is so popular that tickets get sold out weeks in advance. Be sure to book your Frida Kahlo tickets well ahead of time.

Other attractions in Coyoacan include the Leon Trotsky Museum, the Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum, and the Rivera and Kahlo Studio House. 

The San Juan Bautista Church, with its ornate gilded interior, is not to be missed either.

Be sure to spend some time at the Fountain of Coyotes, from which Coyoacan gets its name.

Travelers often combine Coyoacan with Xochimilco on full-day tours like this one . 

A better idea is to combine Coyoacan with the lesser-known neighborhood of San Angel, where you can visit a lively artisan market every Saturday. Called Bazar Sabado, this local market is the best place to shop for Mexican crafts, textiles, handmade ceramics and jewelry, and paintings by local artists.

San Angel is also home to the 17 th -century El Carmen Monastery, which has a museum of religious art and twelve mummies from the 1600s. 

Teotihuacan Pyramids

One of the most fascinating places to visit near Mexico City is the Archeological Site of Teotihuacan. 

Located just 30 miles north of Mexico City (about an hour's drive), Teotihuacan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to three massive pyramids almost 2,000 years old. They are called the pyramids of the Sun, the Moon, and the Feathered Serpent.

Best things to do at Teotihuacan

• Marvel at the pyramids of the Sun, the Moon, and the Feathered Serpent aligned along a north-south axis called the Avenue of the Dead. The pyramids are no longer open to climbing but you can appreciate their sheer size and history.
• Discover murals painted by the ancient people of Teotihuacan thousands of years ago at the Palace of Butterflies, Tepantitla Architectural Complex, and the Beatriz Fuente Mural Museum. 
• Ride a hot air balloon to get the most stunning views of the ancient city from above.

It is easy to get to Teotihuacan from Mexico City by public transport. Board a Teotihuacan Autobus from the Norte Terminal in Mexico City and get to Teotihuacan in an hour. 

You can also rent a car and drive (beware, Mexico City traffic is notoriously slow!) or book a guided tour with hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Floating Gardens of Xochimilco

Mexico City is full of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the most unique ones is the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco.

Located on the southern borders of Mexico City, the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco are a group of artificial islands created by the Aztecs in the 14th century. They are still used to grow crops, and rear animals like the Aztecs did 700 years ago.

Xochimilco’s Floating Gardens are also a popular tourist attraction today. 

Visitors can ride on brightly colored gondolas called trajineras and explore the canals of Xochimilco. 

Trajinera tours usually include food, drinks, dance, and music, making Xochimilco a fun day trip from Mexico City. 

El Angel Monument

If you’re looking for the most iconic Mexico City attractions, visit the monument of El Angel or the Angel of Independence.

Located in downtown Mexico City, the Angel symbolizes Mexico’s War of Independence and its victory over Spain. 

The Angel is a 120-foot-tall column topped by a bright golden statue of Nike. The mortal remains of many Mexican revolutionaries, including those of Father Hidalgo , are buried under the monument. 

El Angel stands right in the middle of the busy Paseo de la Reforma and is one of the most photographed attractions in Mexico City. 

Roma and Condesa

Roma and Condesa are two of Mexico City’s coolest neighborhoods, with cute restaurants, artsy cafes, and trendy boutiques. Tree-lined streets and old art nouveau buildings further add to the charm.

Over time, both Roma and Condesa have come to house artists from all over the world.

Therefore, you’ll find a lot of original street art as well as modern art galleries in these neighborhoods.

Best things to do in Roma and Condesa:

• Stroll in Parque Mexico, a lush green park full of exotic flora and fauna, ponds and fountains, interesting sculptures, and long winding trails.
• Head to Mercado Roma and sample authentic Mexican cuisine from the local food stalls.
• Visit chic art galleries like Galeria OMR and Arto Otra and shop for artsy Mexican souvenirs. Or join a walking tour to explore the eclectic street art of Roma and Condesa.
• Try vegan tacos at Por Siempre Vegana in Roma Norte, one of the best places for vegan Mexican fare.

Chapultepec Park and Castle

Next up on this list of best places to visit in Mexico City are the iconic Chapultepec Park and Chapultepec Castle. 

Often referred to as the lungs of Mexico City, Chapultepec Park is a large urban park in the heart of the city. 

Apart from charming walking trails and a beautiful lake, the park has many more attractions, including museums, a zoo, Chapultepec Castle, the Ninos Heroes Monument, and several local restaurants. 

The National Museum of Anthropology, one of Mexico City’s most famous museums, is located within Chapultepec Park. It is the best place to learn about the pre-Hispanic civilizations of Mexico, including the Mayans, Aztecs, and Olmecs. 

Other notable museums inside Chapultepec Park are the Museum of Modern Art, Rufino Tamayo Contemporary Art Museum, and Papalote Children’s Museum. 

On the top of a small hill in Chapultepec Park, you will find the Chapultepec Castle, the only royal castle in the Americas. 

The castle is home to the National Museum of History, where you can delve into Mexico’s rich history. You can also tour the lavishly decorated staterooms and check out beautiful stained-glass windows inside the castle.

The castle is also the best place to get panoramic views of Chapultepec Park and the Mexico City skyline.

Chapultepec Park is so huge and full of attractions that you can easily spend an entire day here without running out of things to do.

Polanco is one of Mexico City’s most upscale neighborhoods and is home to high-end restaurants, luxury boutiques, expensive hotels, and classy galleries and museums. 

Polanco has not one but two Michelin-starred restaurants – Pujol and Quintonil. Whether you choose to eat at one of these or a streetside taco stall, you won’t be disappointed. The food in Polanco is delicious everywhere.

Shop at the posh Antara Fashion Hall or take a walk in Parque Lincoln. Everything in Polanco is classy and dripping with swank.

The highlight, however, is the privately-owned Soumaya Museum, which has one of the largest collections of art in all of North America. From masterpieces of European old masters to modern 20th-century Mexican art pieces, the museum has over 60,000 pieces of art open for public viewing free of charge.

Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, or UNAM, is not only an educational institution but also a popular place to visit in Mexico City.

The Central University Campus of UNAM is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it presents a rare example of 20th-century modernist architecture.

The University Library is a fascinating building with its entire façade adorned by a stunning mosaic by Juan O’Gorman. The mosaic depicts different stages in the history of Mexico, starting with the pre-Hispanic civilizations, the colonists, and modern Mexican people. 

If you’re an art enthusiast, visit the University Museum of Contemporary Art (MUAC), which features some of the most innovative and unconventional art creations.

UNAM is located about 10 miles south of the Historic Center of Mexico City. Therefore, travelers often visit UNAM on a full-day tour with Xochimilco Floating Gardens and Frida Kahlo Museum.

Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of Latin America’s most visited religious sites. 

Located only 30 minutes from the Mexico City center, the Basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is known to house a famous cloak that has the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

The impressive architecture of the Basilica is another draw. The old and the new basilicas stand side by side, representing Mexico’s rich architectural history. 

Millions of pilgrims visit the Basilica every year. The crowds are enormous on the 12th of December, the Day of Saint Mary of Guadalupe.

You can easily combine the Basilica with a full-day tour of the Teotihuacan pyramids and the Tlatelolco Archeological Site.

Tips for visiting Mexico City Attractions

• Many Mexico City attractions are closed on Mondays. If you’re in Mexico City on a Monday, indulge in a day trip to Teotihuacan or Xochimilco.
• Mexico City is one of the largest cities in the world and is home to over 22 million people. Therefore, traffic can get terrible sometimes. Use the metro and Metrobus to get to your destination on time. Getting a Metro Card is extremely helpful.
• The best time to visit Mexico City is in the spring months of March–May. The weather is cooler and drier than in summer, making it perfect to explore outdoors. Jacarandas are also in full bloom during this time, making the areas around Paseo de la Reforma, Centro Historico, and Chapultepec Park even prettier. October-November is also a good time if you plan to attend Day of the Dead festivities.
• Frida Kahlo Museum is extremely popular among tourists. Therefore, tickets sell out fast. Book your Frida Kahlo tickets at least a week in advance.

If you’re looking for more amazing things to do in Mexico City and nearby, head to the beautiful colonial towns of San Miguel de Allende and Puebla, and immerse yourself in the rich Mexican heritage and culture.

About the Author Soumya is a history and culture enthusiast who helps her readers plan immersive cultural trips through her travel blog, Stories by Soumya . Her writings about travel and culture have been published in BBC Travel, Architectural Digest, National Herald, and many more. Mexico City is one of her favorite places in the world, and she keeps coming back here for the history, the culture, and the food.

Check out these related posts:

• Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos
• Best Things to Do in Bacalar
• Best Things to Do in Mazatlan
• Amazing Things to Do in Oaxaca

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The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Take a Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Your Trip to Mexico City: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

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

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14 Best Things to Do in Zócalo, Mexico City

By Scarlett Lindeman

Centro Historico, or "Centro" colloquially, is both the historic center and beating heart of Mexico City. It's vibrant, moving, and often jammed full of people—like Times Square but with more soul. You can see the birth of the nation here, standing at the largest plaza in Latin America, with the Spanish colonial cathedral that has been constructed on top of the Aztec Templo Mayor: the two great cultures whose influence have defined the city. There is a whirlwind of taquerias, murals, secret spots, and captivating architecture that gives Centro such a distinct feel. To make the most of it, check out our guide on what to do in Centro Historico, also commonly referred to as Zócalo, the name of its main square.

Catedral Metropolitana de la Asunción de la Santísima Virgen María a los Cielos Arrow

This cathedral was built over two centuries (from 1573 to 1813) and is the largest in Latin America. The Spanish built it over the ruins of the Aztec Templo Mayor and used some of the stones of the fallen edifice to construct the church. Since it was built over such a long time, it features a mix of Renaissance, Baroque, and Neo-classical styles in its design.

Secretaría de Educación Pública Arrow

A ten minute stroll north of the Zocalo puts you in front of the Ministry of Education, a hulking two-story government building that holds the state secretary offices for scientific and sports education. Why are you here? To see the beautifully preserved Diego Rivera murals that are possibly more impressive than those in the Palacio National. Stunning in scope and scale, the murals depict the history of Mexico, from pre-Hispanic development and the arrival of the Spaniards to the modern era.

Restaurante El Cardenal Arrow

El Cardenal is a buttoned-up and beautiful traditional Mexican breakfast spot with multiple locations. The Centro one is particulaly alluring because it has an elevator to the second floor and delightful stained glass windows of the restaurant's namesake, bright red cardinals. Many people come here for its egg, tortilla, and black bean-heavy breakfasts, but we like it best for spiced hot chocolate and concha con nata  (sweet, shell-shaped pastries sandwiched with cream) before exploring the neighborhood.

Pastelería Ideal Arrow

Founded in 1927, this pastry shop caters primarily to locals looking for simple, traditional luxury. Look closely when walking around Centro and you'll notice people carrying huge white boxes with the shop's name printed in blue. The cakes and sweet breads inside are being ushered to birthday parties and Sunday afternoon gatherings.

Hannah Towey

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Steph Koyfman

Plaza de la Constitución Arrow

Marking the central node of Mexico City, this breathtakingly large square is flanked by a huge flagpole bearing the Mexican flag. Prior to the Spanish invasion, El Zócalo was the principal ceremonial site for the Aztecs. Today, it holds court as one of the central arenas for politics, cultural events, and concerts.

Templo Mayor Arrow

Templo Mayor (translation: main temple) was the centerpiece of Tenochtitlán, the ancient Aztec capital, constructed in 1325 in the marshes of Lake Texcoco. The temple was mowed over and replaced by a cathedral during the Spanish conquest in 1521. Today, the hulking stone ruins lie at the heart of Centro Histórico, embedded in the blueprint of downtown. Surrounded by streets and buildings, it is hard to imagine the temples in their original Aztecan glory, but the nicely organized museum helps paint the full picture.

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In 1919, the American Sanborns brothers bought this 18th century palace and opened Mexico's first soda fountain inside. There's a charmingly antiquated coffee counter snaking through one side of the building, which also includes a casual seating area, retail section, pharmacy, and a more formal dining room in the enclosed patio. Think of it as an upscale Denny's that serves breakfast platters of enchiladas and eggs, larger steaks and sides, and of course, milkshakes and sundaes.

Azul Historico Arrow

In the open-air courtyard of the 17th-century Downtown Mexico Hotel sits the charming Azul Historico, potentially the best of Ricardo Muñoz Zurita's Mexico City restaurants. Muñoz is a gastronomic historian who is precise and dogmatic when it comes to time-honored recipes. His spicy and chile-laden mole negro de oaxaca is legendary, and the cochinita pibil is a classic. There are no wild flourishes here, just well-executed, elegant plates. Try the enchiladas in a mild chipotle sauce filled with hibiscus flowers—the same ones used to make the tangy Jamaica drink.

Palacio Postal Arrow

Designed by the same Italian architect, Adamo Boari, who did Bellas Artes across the street, the central post office is a wild mix of architectural styles—Spanish Rococo, Venetian, Gothic Revival, Moorish, Neoclassical, Baroque, and Art Deco elements are all present here. The space has been in operation as a city post office since 1907. Inside, the translucent variety of stone called "chiluca"—used throughout the interior and staircase—is particularly appealing.

Dulcería de Celaya Arrow

Open since 1874, this sweet shop is dedicated to traditional Mexican confections. It feels a bit like a Parisian patisserie, but the meringues, candied fruit, and coconut-flavored sweets bring you back to Mexico City. The inventory is organized neatly in trays like precious jewels of all colors, so even if you don't have a sweet tooth to satisfy, it's fun to browse.

Alameda Central Arrow

Mexico's oldest municipal park has been around since 1529, when it served as an Aztec marketplace. Today, the park serves as a pedestrian-friendly hangout in the otherwise concrete-filled Centro Historico. You'll find teenagers on their phones, elderly couples soaking up sun, and parents chasing kids on scooters. At one end of this manicured rectangle is the Palacio de Bellas Artes; at the other, a string of cafés, mezcal bars, and shops. Go for a leisurely stroll near the fields of lavender, which fill the air with a lovely aroma.

Hospital de Jésus Nazareno Arrow

This is the oldest hospital on the continent and, legend has it, the spot where the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés and Aztec ruler Moctezuma met for the first time in 1519. Though still a working hospital, it has a beautiful, lush courtyard and brightly colored mural that offer a calming hideaway in the middle of Centro Historico.

El Huequito Arrow

El Huequito specializes in juicy, marinated al pastor in a proprietary blend of spices. Order the torre de pastor (literally, a tower of sliced meat with a stack of tortillas) and make your own tacos at the table with the selection of salsa. There's also a hearty tortilla soup, cheese wrapped around griddled meats then slipped into a tortilla, and grilled nopales (catus paddles). People tend come here for a quick taco break before heading back into the city or after drinking all day in a cantina.

Torre Latinoamericana Arrow

This 44-story skyscraper, built in 1965, is the tallest building in Centro Histórico . The tower miraculously withstood both the 8.1-magnitude earthquake of 1985 and the 7.1-magnitude quake of September 2017, making it a rare feat of engineering. The Torre defines Mexico City's skyline (much like the Empire State building in New York) and is a useful tool for orienting oneself in downtown. Head to the top-floor observation deck for jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the city, or to the newly renovated bar/restaurant (one floor below), which has equally impressive views and is almost always empty.

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Best places to visit in mexico for 2023-2024.

With year-round warm weather and diverse destinations ranging from metropolitan Mexico City to the sands of Tulum, Mexico boasts vacation spots that appeal to all sorts of visitors. To help you determine which locale is best for you, U.S. News compiled this list of the best places to visit in Mexico by factoring in cultural attractions, food options, beaches, water-based activities and nightlife, along with traveler votes and expert opinions. Vote for your favorite vacation spots below to help us determine next year's ranking. (Note: The U.S. Department of State advises against traveling to certain Mexican states due to crime; check the  website  for updates before booking your trip, and be cautious if you decide to travel.)

Zihuatanejo

Isla mujeres, isla holbox, mexico city, playa del carmen.

Located on Mexico's Pacific coast, Zihuatanejo offers travelers an authentic Mexico experience full of brilliant sunsets and laid-back vibes. In this fishing village, shopaholics can buy local handicrafts (think: ceramics and woodcarvings), and foodies can savor fresh fish tacos and ceviche along the beach. The city's Playa La Ropa serves as the main beach and stands out because of its clean, family-friendly atmosphere. Playa Larga, another excellent beach option, is set slightly outside of town, so it offers a quieter atmosphere and plenty of room to sprawl out. Just off the coast, divers and snorkelers can pick from several dive sites brimming with marine life.

Home to Mexico's most famous waterfront Mayan ruins, Tulum appeals to history buffs and water lovers alike. Positioned along a coastal stretch of the Riviera Maya, about 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen, Tulum offers some of the best hotels in Mexico , ranging from small boutique hotels to wellness retreats to all-inclusive resorts. Regardless of where you stay, you can spend time lounging on some of the world's most beautiful beaches (try traveler-approved Playa Paraíso or Playa Ruinas), exploring ancient ruins (consider booking a daytrip to nearby Chichén Itzá for a larger-scale site) and swimming in secluded cenotes, unique underwater caves located around the Yucatán Peninsula.

This island is probably best known for two things: coral reefs and cruise ships. Travelers love this destination's brilliant blue water and laid-back beaches, plus its abundance of water sports activities. Numerous outfitters and resorts offer kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling gear. While you could spend every minute in the water or on the beach with a good book, Cozumel is also a quiet place to learn about Mayan culture. Visit the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio archaeological site for a dose of pre-Hispanic history.

Ixtapa's curved coastline is packed with hotels, restaurants and nightlife, giving the Pacific coast city (located just north of Zihuatanejo) a bustling vibe. Playa El Palmar, the main beach, often proves better for sunset strolls and people-watching than swimming or snorkeling due to the strong waves. Still, warm, clear and generally gentle water and coral beds farther offshore make Ixtapa one of the best places for beginner scuba enthusiasts. Anyone interested in the area's history should also explore the Archaeological Museum of the Costa Grande, a small museum that details the various cultures and events that make the region unique. 

A great option for a weekend stay or a quick daytrip tour , Isla Mujeres is set off the coast of Cancún and offers beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and coral reefs ready for exploration. In fact, it's one of the best places to go snorkeling in the world thanks to a unique underwater museum and one of the world's largest coral reefs (home to all sorts of colorful fish). See marine life from another perspective on a glass bottom boat. When you want to catch some rays, Playa Norte is the most popular beach, framed by white sand, turquoise water and swaying palm trees.

Quiet beaches, a relaxed atmosphere and stunning crystal-clear water are some of Isla Holbox's standout attributes. This up-and-coming slice of paradise is perfect for travelers looking to truly get away from it all, thanks to its car-free, off-the-beaten-path location. Isla Holbox is situated off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula and only 26 miles long. Expect quaint boutique hotels, stretches of white sand beaches (Playa Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito are two top spots), opportunities for snorkeling and sailing, and more than 100 species of birds, including vibrantly colored flamingoes.

About 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a small beach town known for awesome surfing conditions and scenic stretches of sand. If you've never surfed before, sign up for a lesson from a local to learn. Visitors can also go whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, horseback riding or zip lining, or hop on a relaxing boat tour. After a day of fun in the sun, head into town to check out the local art galleries and grab a bite to eat at one of the tasty restaurants (Sayulita is a burgeoning foodie destination), which feature everything from cheap eats to fine dining.

Anglers recognize Manzanillo as a world-class deep-sea fishing destination for anyone searching for sailfish and marlin, but many types of travelers will enjoy a trip to this Pacific coast destination, located 170 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. The city's two bays mean there is no shortage of beaches for visitors to swim and sunbathe on: Top spots include Playa la Audiencia and Playa Salagua. Water sports like snorkeling and kayaking are also popular activities to enjoy here. If you have time, visit the small town of Barra de Navidad (about 30 miles northwest) for charming hotels, restaurants and stores along the beach. 

Dreamy white sand , nightclubs, all-inclusive resorts and inexpensive flights from the U.S. make Cancún a go-to spot for spring breakers and vacationers seeking an easy beach getaway. But this city on the Yucatán Peninsula also sits close to lush jungles and tranquil cenotes, making it an excellent option for nature lovers. Not to mention, travelers will find diverse and cheap street food served from various carts in the downtown area. Visiting in fall or winter will ensure you see this city (one of the most-visited spots in Mexico) in its most tranquil light, but December through April is when the weather is closest to perfect.

Ornate baroque and neoclassical buildings, busy plazas and colorful homes are everywhere you turn in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city. Guanajuato, situated about 50 miles west of San Miguel de Allende, is known for its subterranean streets and tunnels, which you can explore on a walking tour or at your own leisure. After admiring the city's cobblestone roadways and charming colonial architecture, grab a souvenir or bite to eat at the bustling Mercado Hidalgo. If you enjoy art, arrive in October when the popular Festival Internacional Cervantino takes place.

As the capital of Yucatán, Mérida's rich culture is visible around every turn. White stone mansions line Paseo de Montejo (the city's main street), while vibrant Sunday markets provide a taste of old-world Mexico. Those looking for Mayan ruins are also in luck; many ancient archaeological sites are in close proximity, including the famed Chichén Itzá just 75 miles east. Meanwhile, museum and art enthusiasts praise El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida, as well as the city's art galleries and local murals. When it comes to lodging, travelers will have their pick of quaint boutique hotels.

The most populous city in Mexico is steeped in history and culture. Mexico City boasts delectable cuisine, ancient Aztec sites and world-class hotels – all at fairly low costs – but if you feel like splurging, you'll find an array of high-end shops along the tree-lined Avenida Presidente Masaryk in the Polanco neighborhood. Must-see attractions in Mexico City include the Zócalo, the Palace of Fine Arts, Chapultepec Castle and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. And if you want to eat your way through the city, consider signing up for a food tour .

For a vacation packed with authentic character, head to Puebla. This city, which sits about 80 miles southeast of Mexico City, is filled with colonial architecture and numerous churches, but its main draws are its stunning Talavera pottery, its historical forts and museums, and its sweet and spicy cuisine. Visitors must try mole poblano (made with numerous ingredients, including chiles, meat, chocolate, cinnamon and garlic) and chiles en nogada (chiles stuffed with beef and served with a walnut sauce and fruit like peaches, apples and pomegranate seeds). When the sun sets, venture to Callejón de los Sapos to listen to live music.

Playa del Carmen boasts an exciting food scene, with eateries dishing out everything from delectable tacos and tostadas to sushi and expertly cooked seafood, plus an even hipper bar culture. What's more, this destination in the Riviera Maya beckons to vacationers with its soft white sand blanketing its beaches and its stunning shoreline views. Visitors can also bike to a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip or hit the links at one of the numerous surrounding golf courses. All-inclusive resorts , vacation rentals and boutique properties abound in Playa del Carmen, too, giving travelers plenty of options to find the best fit for their preferences and budgets.

This secluded vacation spot is known for its luxurious lodging options (from vacation rentals to high-end hotels like the St. Regis and the Four Seasons), golf courses and charming beaches, such as El Anclote and Playa de Punta Mita. The small resort village of Punta Mita sits on a peninsula in Banderas Bay and most appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing atmosphere. Those interested in scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and surfing will be able to enjoy those activities here as well. If you're visiting between December and March, book a whale watching tour for a chance to see humpback or orca whales.

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The 25 Best Places To Visit in Mexico City According To Locals

You'll never run out of places to visit in Mexico City. This vibrant, bustling metropolis contains everything from ancient ruins to sparkling skyscrapers. It's easy to get overwhelmed, which is why we asked some Mexico City locals for their advice. 

With their help, we created this guide to the 25 best places to visit in Mexico City. 

No one knows a place like the people who live there. Work with a local to build your Mexico City trip. 

#1: The Hip Neighborhoods Of Roma & Condesa

Locals tell us that the adjacent Roma and Condesa neighborhoods are a definite must-visit in Mexico City. Here, travelers will find a wealth of bars, restaurants, and charming shops. Even walking around is delightful! Roma and Condesa are full of incredible Art Deco mansions. 

Both neighborhoods are well-loved by locals and visitors alike, which means taking advantage of local advice is a good way to avoid the more touristy areas. Our local trip planners in Mexico City suggest exploring Condesa's gloriously green Parque Mexico  and checking out the street food at the Chilpancingo metro stop. 

#2: The Ancient Pyramids of Teotihuacan

The ancient Mayans built the Teotihuacan pyramids nearly 2,000 years ago—and they're just as stunning today as they were back then. Although this UNESCO site is a bit outside of town, the trip there is definitely worth it.

Locals tell us that the site is more than just pyramids. It's an entire ancient city lost in time. Check out what remains of this amazing civilization, including The Pyramid of the Sun, The Temple of Quetzalcoatl, and  the eerily named “Avenue of the Dead.” Climb the pyramids, wander the jungle looking for artifacts, or simply meander the site in wonder.

You can book a tour  to see the pyramids with a guide, or your local trip planner can give you detailed instructions on how to get there yourself (so you can explore it at your leisure).

#3:  The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco

Mexico City's Xochimilco neighborhood is a gorgeous network of wide canals and ancient, man-made floating islands. Though the Aztecs built these islands to grow crops, today they're used as massive, floating flower gardens.

This stunning site can be enjoyed via trajineras, adorable, colorful riverboats that take visitors through the waters. 

#4: El Museo Frida Kahlo 

Mexico City is filled with incredible museums (more than 150!) and Museo Frida Kahlo is among the most popular. Located in the quiet Coyoacan neighborhood, visitors can learn about Kahlo’s life and enjoy her art, ensconced in the “blue house” that she called home.

If you're a fan of Frida's art or want to immerse yourself in her world, this is definitely one of the best museums to visit in Mexico City .

#6: El Parnita 

Locals tell us that El Parnita is a cute little lunch joint that offers great Mexican fare — from tacos to tortas and beyond.

Tucked into the Roma neighborhood, El Parnita is often called " Mexico City's Favorite Taqueria ". Accordingly, the place gets PACKED.

Our advice: have your trip planner put a meal at El Parnita on your itinerary for when you're already in the neighborhood. That way, if it's too packed, you can keep exploring while the crowds calm down.

#6: El Palacio de Bellas Artes (The Palace of Fine Arts)

El Palacio de Bellas Artes (The Palace of Fine Arts) is more than just a beautiful face—though it does have a gorgeous face. 

This fantastic Mexico City landmark can do it all. Locals tell us that visitors can explore the Museum of Architecture on the top floor, attend classical music performances in its fabled concert hall, take in the amazing Diego Rivera murals in the lobby, check out the museum's extensive collection of 19th- ad 20th-century Mexican art, and ogle at the incredible Tiffany glass “curtain” in the theater.

#7:  El Zocalo

If you don’t want to miss out on the latest celebration, demonstration, big event, you name it, then locals recommend making a beeline for the Zocalo, Mexico City’s enormous public square (also known as Plaza de la Constitucion).

Even on a “quiet” day, the square is packed with people, dancers, and street musicians. Plus, it’s a great starting point since a lot of Mexico City’s sites encircle the Zocalo.

It can be a little overwhelming — there's so much to see! And do! And eat! —so get some local tips on how to explore this dynamic site. 

#8: La Pasteleria Ideal

Voyagers take heed: snacking is an important part of any trip. And locals tell us that Pasteleria Ideal has everything you could possibly want in that department, including a second floor where you can admire their elaborate, tiered wedding cakes.

This pastry shop is known as the best one in Mexico City, so make sure to stop by for some authentic sweets! 

#9: Chapultepec Park

Beautiful and green, Chapultepec Park spans nearly 1700 acres. But it offers much, much more than a respite from city life. Locals tell us that every corner of this green oasis is filled with stuff to do, whether that's walking trails, visiting museums, or taking a boat on a lake. 

Visitors to Chapultepec will also find an actual *castle* , botanical gardens, and an amusement park. In case you weren’t already impressed.

Local tip:   Once a month, locals organize a massive evening picnic in Chapultepec's forests.

#10: The Up-And-Coming Neighborhood Of Juarez

This once-grand neighborhood of Mexico City has seen better days, but Juarez in the midst of a huge bohemian revival.

Today, its Zona Rosa section is considered one of the best places for nightlife in Mexico City, as well as the city’s LGBT capital.  Plus, the street food around here is incredible . Locals suggest seeking out quesadillas and pambazos (sandwiches dipped in salsa and then grilled). 

Local tip : Juarez is generally safe, but it's good to talk to a local about what areas to avoid at night. 

#11: El Murro Churro Shop

Let's talk churros. They're delicious, they're sweet, they're crispy, and in Mexico City, they're dipped in mugs of thick, spiced hot chocolate. If you want authentic Mexican churro goodness, El Murro is the place to go.

This iconic churro shop is one of the city’s favorite spots for a hot, fresh churro and a cup of hot chocolate. Best part? El Murro is open twenty-four hours  (so it's perfect for a late-night snack after a few tequilas).

#12: El Centro Historico 

Mexico City’s historic center (aka Centro Historico ) is packed with museums, Spanish colonial buildings, and iconic sights like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Aztec Templo Mayor. It's no wonder why  Centro Historico is a UNESCO Heritage site !

With so many amazing things to see—not to mention the amazing Alameda Central Park just next door—it’s easy to spend an afternoon wandering through history here.

#13: Catedral Metropolitana (Metropolitan Cathedral)

This enormous cathedral borders the Zocalo, and though building started on it in 1567, it wasn’t completed until more than two hundred years later, in 1788.

The lengthy construction process resulted in an eclectic mix of architectural styles. But it also has a tragic connection to Mexico's pre-Hispanic past: The cathedral is made of stones taken from the destroyed Aztec temple just next door.

Locals say that although visiting the cathedral is not exactly one of Mexico City’s non-touristy things to do , it’s nevertheless well worth a visit.

#13: The Templo Mayor Museum

Speaking of the ancient Aztecs...as the legend goes, they had specific instructions from a higher power to build a city where an eagle stands upon a cactus, with a snake in its mouth.*

They did! But It wasn’t until 1978 that this ancient city (called Tenochtitlan) was rediscovered. Mexico City was literally built on top of it after the Spaniards arrived and destroyed it. 

Today, Templo Mayor (roughly translated as the high temple) is a stunning archeological site and museum, which visitors can explore for just 70 pesos, or less than four dollars.

In our opinion, this is among the best things to do in Mexico City . It majestically captures the ancient world of the Aztecs, who, once saw the land as holy ground. 

*Sound familiar? Today, this is Mexico’s coat of arms.

#14: Plaza Garibaldi

Locals tell us that Plaza Garibaldi is one of the best places in the city to hear some classic mariachi music!

A short walk north from the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Plaza Garibaldi is surrounded by tons of restaurants, bars, and museums (making for a happening part of town).

However, locals note that (while Mexico City is safe on the whole) this part of town can get dodgy at night.

#15 : El Museo del Tequila y Mezcal

Locals highly recommend a stop in at the Museo del Tequila y el Mezcal . They suggest taking the museum tour (it includes samples!) to give yourself an immersive education on the history and production of tequila and mezcal, two of Mexico's favorite spirits.

The tour ends on the museum’s rooftop, which affords a gorgeous look at Plaza Garibaldi below and a chance to enjoy mariachi music from afar.

Local tip: Although caution should be exercised in Plaza Garibaldi at night, the museum is open late, until 10 PM or midnight depending on the day.

#16: The Charming Coyoacan Neighborhood

Although Coyoacan is a quieter Mexico City neighborhood , that doesn't mean that it lacks exciting activities. Far from it! Definitely check out the stunning Museo Frida Kahlo — one of the area's main draws — but stick around to explore the rest of this gorgeous part of town. 

Locals recommend  checking out the iconic Vivero Coyoacan (one of Mexico’s national parks) and sampling street food at the Mercado de Coyoacan (a classic Mexico City market—locals say you *must* try the tostadas).

#17: El Museo Soumaya

There are so, so, so many incredible museums in Mexico City. But Museo Soumaya is one of the city's best — and it's free to visit.

Nestled in Mexico City's Polanco neighborhood , Museo Soumaya's bright silver scales and unusual shape make it hard to ignore. But the interior of the museum is just as incredible. It includes 60,000+ pieces of art, including a huge collection of Rodin sculptures, as well as a ton of art by Mexican artists like   Diego Rivera .

#18: El Palacio Nacional

The Palacio Nacional, where the president works, is more than a stunning piece of architecture located along the Zocalo.

Free to enter, visitors can explore its museums, beautiful courtyards, and rooms filled with period furniture. Locals say to definitely check out the incredible, sprawling Diego Rivera murals on the second floor.

#19: El Torre Latinoamericana Skyscraper

One of the cool things about Mexico City is that it’s such a combination of old and new. Torre Latinoamericana is an example of this contrast—a skyscraper next to ancient ruins.

Once the tallest building in Latin America, it’s still the tallest building in Centro Historico. Climb to the observation deck for a truly jaw-dropping look at Mexico City from above. 

Local tip :  If you're looking for great Mexico City views , be sure to check out the Zocalo Central Hotel rooftop restaurant or the Terraza Catedral beer garden. 

#20: The Posh Polanco Neighborhood

Wondering where to eat in Mexico City ? You can’t really go wrong with… anywhere. But that being said, locals say that Polanco is a great place to start.

Some of the world’s best restaurants are nestled in this neighborhood. And Polanco is more than just food: visitors will find tons of great markets, shopping, and parks—even a park named for Abraham Lincoln !

#21: El Monumento de la Revolucion

The Monumento de la Revolucíon looks like the Arc de Triomphe—but bigger.

The monument, which commemorates the revolution that liberated Mexico from Spain, is more than what meets the eye. Locals suggest checking out the National Museum of the Revolution , riding a glass elevator to the top to take in sweeping views, or descending to the crypts to pay respects to Mexico’s revolutionary heroes.

Local tip: Adjacent to the San Rafael neighborhood, this is a great spot for a sunset photo.

#22: The Chill Neighborhood Of San Rafael

Like the nearby Juarez neighborhood, San Rafael has seen better days. But it’s in the midst of a grand revival and is perfect for those who want to explore non-touristy areas of Mexico City.

Less crowded than Roma and Condesa, locals tell us there are still tons of great bars, restaurants, and art galleries to check out here. Although it’s a bit off-the-beaten-path, San Rafael is still safe to visit — just exercise normal caution like you would elsewhere in the city. 

Local tip: Be sure to pick up some   comida corrida (basically Mexican tapas) in San Rafael’s wonderful neighborhood market, Mercado San Cosme.

#24: The Historic Bar  La Opera

La Opera , which first opened in the 1870s, embraces an old-time class that's hard to find. 

Locals suggest ordering a good tequila, and asking the bartender to point out where Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa once shot a hole in the ceiling. Yeah — it's that kind of place. 

#25: El Museo Nacional de Antropologia

Among all of Mexico City’s spectacular museums, the Museo de Antropologia is the shining star. Locals say that visitors could easily spend an entire day exploring Mexico’s largest and most visited museum.

With 22 rooms covering Mexico’s pre-Hispanic past, there’s a ton to take in. Literally— there are millions of archeological pieces to check out. Plus, the museum’s beautiful architecture is a reason in itself to stop by.

Find a local to plan your trip . And for more on Mexico City travel, check out: 

• The Ultimate Mexico City Travel Guide 2024
• Flights to Mexico City: Everything You Need to Know
• 2024 Mexico City Travel FAQs
• The Best Time to Visit Mexico City

Looking for more info?

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27 Top Attractions & Things to do in Mexico City

By Carl Austin · Last updated on April 3, 2024

With an estimated 20 million people living in the region, Mexico City is one of the world’s largest cities. The origins of this huge city date back to 1325, when the Aztec capital city of Tenochtitlan was founded.

It was later destroyed in 1521 by Spanish conqueror Hernan Cortes. On its ruins a new city was founded which served as the capital of the Vice-royalty of New Spain and later as the capital of Mexico. The city provides a chance to learn about the Aztecs, one of the world’s great early civilizations, as well as their Spanish conquerors. Many colonial buildings still stand among those of more modern architectural styles.

One of the most interesting things to do in Mexico City is to see the works of Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera, one of the world’s greatest muralists. Among the top tourist attractions in Mexico City are numerous renowned museums and art galleries with impeccable architectural designs to catch the eye and interest.

You don’t have to go far in Mexico City when you find your appetite rearing. Grab a fresh bite of authentic local cuisine of chapulines, chilaquiles, and tacos al pastor at one of the street vendors dotted around the city to fuel your adventures!

27. Museo Mural Diego Rivera

In Downtown Mexico City near the Palacio de Bellas Artes and Museo Franz Mayer, the Museo Mural Diego Rivera is a museum that features exceptional artwork. One such piece is the Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central, which translates to “Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda Central” by Diego Rivera. This mural specifically imagines colonial-time figures who once walked Mexico City, including Francisco Madero and Benito Juárez.

Diego Rivera is a memorable artist and Mexican painter who actively created artwork for half a century. He established large frescoes that imparted a significant role in the mural movement in Mexico and internationally. This movement aimed to bring art to the masses on public walls to experience the vibrancy, culture, and craft of these masterful works.

26. Angel de la Independencia

More commonly known as El Ángel, the Ángel de la Independencia is the Monumento a la Independencia. The iconic landmark in downtown Mexico City is situated on a roundabout on the high-traffic road of Paseo de la Reforma near the Embassy of the United States of America.

The Ángel de la Independencia is a tribute and symbol of Mexico’s victory in the War of Independence from Spain. A bronze statue of the Greek goddess of victory, Nike, tops the column monument. The structure was constructed by architect Antonio Rivas Mercado, widely known for building the Municipal Palace in Tlalpan.

The architect’s home has been transformed into a museum, the Casa Rivas Mercado in Mexico City, that displays Mercado’s outstanding works.

25. Mercado Roma

An eclectic stop in Mexico City, Mercado Roma is a public market that features gourmet and cultural foods.

In the hipster neighborhood of La Roma, near the Universidad de Londres Plantel San Luis Potosí, the market encapsulates the beauty and flavor of Mexican culinary traditional foods. Throughout Mercado Roma are numerous vendors selling produce and delicacies in a contemporary-oriented space.

The upper levels of the market have an open terraced area to eat and relax in and a bar and restaurants to grab drinks and food at. The market highlights quality food with a traditional market twist. One such space at the market displays a garden wall where restaurants source fresh ingredients for flavorful meals.

Visiting Mercado Roma is an artisanal food experience that welcomes hungry locals and tourists to Mexico City with open arms.

24. Coyoacan

One of Mexico City’s oldest neighborhoods, Coyoacan, is more widely known for being the area where Frida Kahlo lived. The neighborhood is south of the the Zócalo.

Coyoacan is adored for its immaculate and uplifting atmosphere. The colonial architecture and cobblestone streets set an excellent tone for exploring this historic neighborhood.

From the Aztec language, “Coyoacan” translates to “a place of coyotes.” As you tour the neighborhood, notable influences reference this with coyote art and statues sprinkled around the area. One of the most noteworthy is the Fountain of the Coyotes, one of Mexico City’s more well-known fountains.

Tour Coyoacan to explore its quaint bookstores, fresh markets, trendy cafes, and remarkable museums to learn more about local culture, history, and tradition.

23. Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico

Presenting breathtaking views of Zócalo Square below, Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico is a must-visit when stopping in Mexico City on your travels!

Within walking distance of the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes Theater, Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico is well-known for its spectacular stained glass interior. The hotel was previously a department store that opened in 1899. Since then, it has established itself as a glorious artistic and architecturally designed hotel in Mexico City.

The curving staircase within the hotel replicates the Le Bon Marché in Paris. Its antique concrete and iron elevator was the first of its material to be established in Mexico City.

Stop in for a breathtaking look at the Gran Hotel, an arresting venue that is completely rewarding in its awe-inspiring interior designs.

22. Anahuacalli

A museum in Mexico City, Anahuacalli, was designed by renowned painter Diego Rivera. Situated in the San Pablo de Tepetlapa neighborhood, Anahuacalli translates to “house around water” from Nahuatl.

Made of volcanic stone, the museum’s purpose of its construction was to preserve and protect Rivera’s collection of pre-Hispanic art. It also houses one of Rivera’s studios. One such work is the study Man at the Crossroads. Commissioned by the Rockefeller Center, the mural was later destroyed by the center in 1934. Rivera later reproduced this piece in the Palacio de Bellas Artes.

The main collection at Anahuacalli is one that immediately catches the eye. Two thousand statues represent different cultures, including Nahuas, Toltecs, and Olmecs. The museum rotates exhibitions for a more modern addition, ranging from sculptures to paintings.

21. Museo Casa De Leon Trotsky

The Museo Casa De Leon Trotsky, which translates to the Leon Trotsky House Museum, can be found in the neighborhood of Coyoacan. The museum’s official name is Instituto del Derecho de Asilo – Museo Casa de Leon Trotsky.

In honor of Leon Trotsky, the organization promotes political asylum. It is set in the home of Leon Trotsky, a revolutionary who struggled for power against Stalin in the Soviet Union and was expelled in 1929. Trotsky sought refuge in Mexico, going so far as to live in Frida Kahlo’s Blue House with Frida and Rivera.

The Museo Casa De Leon Trotsky is set in remembrance of the day Trotsky was brutally murdered by an agent of Stalin. In the museum are memorabilia, biographical notes, a tomb containing Leon Trotsky’s ashes, and the study room of Trotsky. This room is set in stone to the day Trotsky was assassinated in this same space.

20. Ciudad Universitaria

The Ciudad Universitaria is a neighborhood that is the main campus of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), the oldest and largest university in Latin America. Within Ciudad Universitaria is an extensive complex of buildings and areas that make up UNAM’s campus.

South of the well-known neighborhood of San Angel, the area hosts thousands of students daily on its lawns and inside its buildings.

The Central Library is a notable sight with its exterior design of mosaics created by renowned artist Juan O’Gorman that tell the history of Mexico. The stones used for the mural were sourced natively and produce various he’s when viewed from a distance.

The Philosophy and Literature department features food vendors selling fritangas, chilaquiles, and other foods that suit various tastes and diets.

On the grounds of Ciudad Universitaria is the second largest stadium in Mexico, the Estadio Olimpico. The stadium, specifically designed to replicate a volcano crater and made from volcano rock, was where the 1968 Olympics was hosted.

19. House of Tiles

An 18th-century Baroque palace within walking distance of the Palacio de Bellas Artes, the House of Tiles is a favored tourist attraction for its historical and architectural value.

The Casa de los Azulejos, which translates to “House of Tiles,” was constructed by and home to an aristocratic family, the Count of the Valle de Orizaba. Then, later on, it functioned as a workers’ organization. Today, the palace is a popular meeting spot widely known for its eye-catching white and blue Talavera tiles that date back to the 1500s.

Though the House of Tiles was privately owned for many years until the 19th century, it eventually came under the ownership of the American Sanborn brothers. The American brothers ended up investing in the renewal of the palace, which had undergone wear and tear. Finally, they opened a restaurant that has become one of the most renowned in the country.

18. Arena Mexico

An indoor arena in the Colonia Doctores neighborhood, Arena México is a hub for professional wrestling matches. Termed the “cathedral of lucha libre”, the arena hosts shows promoted by Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre, the oldest professional wrestling promotion in the world.

The large venue hosts boisterous wrestling matches and entertainment, welcoming tourists and locals alike. The building was constructed in the 1950s and explicitly designed for wrestling. Since its opening, Arena México has continued to wow and impress with its exuberant atmosphere.

Experiencing a show at the Arena México is one of the most touristy attractions you can visit in Mexico City. It is full of glam, comedy, athleticism, and entertainment for a night you’ll never forget as you watch Mexico’s greatest wrestlers take the stage.

17. Torre Latinoamericana Observation Deck

The Torre Latinoamericana Observation Deck was once the tallest building in Latin America when it was built in 1956. It is encircled by top attractions such as the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Museo del Estanquillo.

There is much significance to this structure other than its immensity. The Torre Latinoamericana is renowned for being the first skyscraper constructed on active seismic land, having survived numerous earthquakes.

The structure makes an iconic feature of the Mexico City skyline. On the 44th floor of the observation deck, visitors can bask in the awe-inspiring panoramic viewpoints of Mexico City from above.

Within the building, after visiting the observation deck, is the highest aquarium in the world and two on-site museums to continue your adventures in Mexico City!

16. Alameda Central Park

The oldest public park in the Americas, Alameda Central Park, was built in 1592. The park is rich with history, once an Aztec marketplace. Today, the park is a refreshing meeting spot for locals and tourists, teeming with inspiring public art, monuments, and fresh greenery.

Alameda Central Park was used as a market for the Aztecs before conquistadors took over. The market was then used during the Spanish Inquisition to burn heretics at the stake.

Afterwards, the governor of New Spain, Viceroy Luís de Velasco, transformed the space into a public park to cement the newly formed society, where parades, meets, and socialization were encouraged. This resulted in the creation of Mexico City’s first public park, Alameda Central Park.

15. La Ciudadela Market

When visiting Mexico City, head to La Ciudadela Market for souvenirs of traditional Mexican handicrafts!

In the historic center, a manageable walk from the Monumento A La Revolución, the La Ciudadela Market is where tourists can experience the vibrancy of the local culture. There are so many fun and vibrant souvenir options to peruse and choose from at the market.

The artisans’ market sells hand-blown glassware and paper maché figurines. Whether a purse, a pottery box, or toys for the kids, this boisterous market is the place to find affordable souvenirs to take home from your trip to Mexico City.

When the weekend rolls around, there is a danzón dance party where the elderly float over to dance along the square across the street from the market. Enjoy freshly made merengue and public salsa for an experience like no other in Mexico City’s La Ciudadela Market.

14. Museo de Arte Popular

Nestled in an old firehouse within Mexico City’s historic center, the Museo de Arte Popular is committed to collecting, preserving, and showcasing authentic Mexican arts and handicrafts.

Near the Museo Mural Diego Rivera and the Museo Franz Mayer, the museum is a welcoming space for visitors to experience the beauty of traditional Mexican folk art. As Mexico is a place of many blends of indigenous folk traditions, the museum responsibly and dedicatedly presents these unique crafts to the world through its exhibitions.

Touring the Museo de Arte Popular visitors can glimpse intricate designs and styles of pottery, dioramas, and skeletons. Or skim religious articles and monsters seen in folk tales of Mexico.

13. Palacio Postal

The Palacio Postal, formerly the Palacio de Correos de México, is on Eje Central close to the Palacio de Bellas Artes. The structure of Palacio Postal was established in 1907 and quickly became one of Mexico City’s top attractions.

The lobby of the Palacio Postal is awe-inspiring with its gold-gilded staircases and eye-catching architecture co-designed by famous Italian architect Adamo Boari. The same architect would become recognized worldwide for his immaculate skill in designing the Palacio de Bellas Artes.

The historic century-old building still functions as a post office with the added benefit of an informative museum housing artifacts and exhibitions dedicated to the Palacio Postal. One such feature is the first stamp issued in Mexico.

12. Museo Soumaya

The Museo Soumaya is a private museum and cultural institution renowned in Mexico City, featuring two museum buildings, Plaza Loreto and Plaza Carso.

The museum was named after the late wife of millionaire Carlos Slim, the owner. Internationally recognized for its architecture, the Plaza Loreto was designed by famed architect Fernando Romero and the Plaza Carso by renowned architect Frank Gehry, an indisputably impactful art collection.

In 2013, the Museo Soumaya was the most-visited museum in Mexico for its striking exhibitions. The museum is a prominent tourist attraction in Mexico City. Its massive private art collection, including the world’s largest collection of pre-Hispanic and Colonial currency and coins, focuses on Mesoamerica to the modern day.

11. Basilica de Guadalupe

The Basilica de Guadalupe, officially known as Insigne y Nacional Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe, is a Catholic Church and sanctuary. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, primarily to her invocation of Guadalupe.

Located in Gustavo A. Madero at the bottom of the Hill of Tepeyac, the historic church is a famous landmark. It is a national shrine housing the iconic image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The church dates back to 1709, having acted as a prominent pilgrimage site for Catholics.

The legend goes that a Christian convert, an Aztec Indian named Juan Diego, claimed to have seen the Virgin Mary at the foot of Tepeyac Hill. More sightings occurred, somehow resulting in the image of the Virgin Mary appearing before Diego embedding to his cloak. Soon after, the local bishop yielded and instructed the construction of a shrine in the Virgin Mary’s honor, designating the site as a place of worship and pilgrimage.

10. Chapultepec Castle

Overlooking a park from the top of a hill, Chapultepec Castle is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Mexico City. It is the only royal palace in North America inhabited by monarchs.

The castle’s history is rumored to be intertwined with foul play, secretive plots to overthrow authority, and executions. Eventually, the castle was abandoned during the tidings of the War of Independence until it would soon memorialize six young men, the Niños Héroes (Hero Children). These young men defended the Chapultepec Castle in the Mexican-American War, falling to their wounds during the Battle of Chapultepec in 1847.

The hill on which the castle resides was considered sacred by the Aztecs. Visitors are welcome to tour Chapultepec Castle to learn more about its impactful findings and history while gazing upon its glorious architecture and design!

9. Museo Frida Kahlo

The museum is found in Coyoacan, in the Colonia del Carmen neighborhood. The museum houses a dedicated collection celebrating the life of Frida Kahlo who was widely known for her self-portraits painted with bold and vibrant colors. Kahlo painted with a folk style that explored different motifs, including identity, death, class, and gender.

Walk through the Museo Frida Kahlo to get a glimpse into the life of the beloved artist Frida Kahlo. From magnanimous famed art pieces to more personal items, such as Frida’s beauty products, photos, and wheelchair, the museum is an intimate glimpse into the famed artist’s life.

8. Palacio Nacional

Found in the Plaza de la Constitución, the Palacio Nacional has acted as the seat of the federal government since 2018. Though this is significant, there is more that draws crowds of tourists to the Palacio Nacional.

Spaniard conquistador Hernán Cortés established the palace on the remnants of Moctezuma II’s palace after invading the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan. The palace was bought from the Spanish crown in 1562, eventually becoming today’s Palacio Nacional after Mexico gained its independence.

The magnificence of the Palacio Nacional is unparalleled, and within its grounds are impactful murals painted by Diego Rivera from 1929-1951. These murals are a prominent lure for tourism to the Palacio Nacional. The murals depict cultural and historical aspects of Mexico’s past, from the arrival of Quetzalcóatl, an Aztec god, to Mexican civilization to the post-revolutionary period.

7. Palacio de Bellas Artes

One of the most significant sights in Mexico City, the Palacio de Bellas Artes, is a prestigious cultural center. Near the Museo Nacional De Arte (MUNAL), the center hosts distinguished events from opera, theater, dance, and art exhibitions.

Throughout the white-marbled Palacio de Bellas Artes are breathtaking murals established by renowned Mexican artists, an arts center, and a concert hall. The famous artwork commissioned for the Rockefeller Center in New York is on the third floor of the center. The piece, El Hombre en el Cruce de Caminos (Man at the Crossroads), was painted by renowned Mexican artist Diego Rivera.

Within the Bellas Artes theater is a wonderful stained glass curtain depicting the Valle de Mexico. The design was based on a piece by Gerardo Murillo, a Mexican painter known as Dr. Atl. However, Tiffany & Co, the New York jeweler, assembled the curtain using nearly a million colored glass pieces.

6. Templo Mayor

The Templo Mayor was the primary temple for the Aztecs before Spanish conquistadors decimated the site. In 1978, a carving of the Aztec goddess Cyolxauqui was uncovered, and excavations of the site began to reveal this archaeological find.

Colonial buildings were demolished to continue the excavation of the temple. Today’s Visitors can see where sacrifices were made to the Aztec war god, Huizilopochtli.

From the Plaza del Templo Mayor, the temple’s exterior can be seen without entering the site. On the grounds of the temple is the Museo del Templo Mayor. The museum houses authentic artifacts discovered from the archaeological site and a glimpse into the past of the Aztec civilization.

5. Xochimilco

Tour Mexico City along the routes of Xochimilco, a remaining water transport system established by the Aztecs still used today!

Widely considered one of the best things to do in Mexico City, Xochimilco is known as the Venice of Mexico. This is because of its intricate system of canals established once used by the Aztecs. The channels open up a world of possibilities and a glimpse into the happenings of Mexico City and the time of the Aztecs that once lived here.

On the weekend, Xochimilco is where the party is. The waterways are swarming with colorful boats called trajineras, many of which are stocked with drinks, street food, mariachi music, and great hospitality.

4. Catedral Metropolitana

The Catedral Metropolitana, officially known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Assumption of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven, is of great importance. It is renowned for its significance historically, architecturally, and as a spiritual center.

The largest and oldest cathedral in the New World, the Catedral Metropolitana is a prominent attraction for tourists traveling to Mexico City. The cathedral took an impressive three centuries to finish. It combines three distinct styles of neo-renaissance, baroque, and neo-classical in the changing styles throughout the time it took to build the structure.

There are many attractive features of the cathedral. From its stunning bell towers featuring Xalapan designs to the religious artworks decorating the cathedral, the Catedral Metropolitana is one of the most significant tourist attractions in all of Mexico.

3. Museo de Antropologia

The most visited museum in Mexico, the Museo de Antropologia, is also one of the largest in the country.

Near the Museo Tamayo Arte Contemporaneo, the national museum features the world’s largest collection of ancient Mexican artifacts. While visiting Mexico City, stroll through the museum to learn about the history of Mexico through its exceptional collection of artifacts of Mesoamerica.

Established in 1964, the museum is fantastically large, with indoor and outdoor exhibits. These exhibits explore the different civilizations that have come and gone in Mexico, including the capital of Tenochtitlan, discovered more than 500 years ago by Spanish conquistadors.

One of the most popular exhibitions at the museum is the Aztec Sunstone, the Piedra del Sol. The stone was crafted and used by the Aztecs in Tenochtitlan, its functional intentions are still debated today, with intricate carvings of the Aztec cosmic cycles.

2. Teotihuacan

Northeast of Mexico City, Teotihuacán is an expansive archaeological network of what was once a pre-Columbian city. The site is teeming with ruins of what was the largest pre-Hispanic city in Mexico and one of the largest cities in the world during its prime.

Throughout Teotihuacán are well-preserved remnants of Mesoamerican pyramids that are architecturally significant. The most prominent of these pyramids are the Pyramid of the Moon and the Pyramid of the Sun – the main highlights of Teotihuacán. It’s no wonder as the Pyramid of the Sun is the third largest pyramid in the world, established well before the help of modern tools.

The main walkway between the pyramids and monuments of Teotihuacán is called the Avenue of the Dead. The Aztecs who found the city in ruins tagged this name, and today it is widely believed that the walkway was paved with tombs.

The main square in central Mexico City, Zocalo, was previously used as the primary ceremonial center for the Aztecs during their reign of Tenochtitlan.

Flanked by the Metropolitan Cathedral to the north, and the National Palace to the east, Zócalo formally goes by Plaza de la Constitución. Noted for its large Mexican flag, the square is the heart of the historic district. It is bustling with people looking to explore all Mexico City offers, from street vendors to traditionally made wares.

Zocalo often holds cultural events, festivals, and concerns celebrating the beauty of Mexico. One such event is the annual Festival de Mexico, which honors Latin cuisine and culture with Mexican margaritas, tequila tastings, beers, music, and dancing.

Map of Things to do in Mexico City

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The 17 Best Things to Do in Mexico City: Top Itineraries for First-timers

• Updated on January 2, 2024
• Things to Do

What You Will Learn (Click to Expand)

Introduction, exploring mexico city: the ultimate first timer's guide.

Embarking on a journey to discover Mexico City comes with high expectations – bustling energy, rich history, savory food, dynamic arts, and thirst-quenching nightlife.

For first-time visitors, the promise of adventure makes you relish every moment.

So let’s explore the 17 Best Things to Do in Mexico City .

Navigating Iconic Historical Sites

1. metropolitan cathedral: a testament of time.

Welcome to the largest and oldest cathedral in Latin America – The Metropolitan Cathedral . Built over a span of 250 years (from 1573 to 1813), this magnificent edifice showcases an eclectic mix – of Baroque, Neo-Classic, and Neo-Renaissance architectural styles.

Its exterior alone carries centuries-worth of grandeur. But stepping inside is where the magic truly begins. Expect to be dazzled by gold-coated surfaces and an array of religious relics adorning every corner. Don’t miss out on the gilded Altar of Forgiveness and the painted canvases lining the sacristy.

A special note for dark tourism enthusiasts: the Cathedral offers a night tour of the crypts underneath, offering a whole new perspective. The Cathedral is also a reflection of the city’s past, with materials from a destroyed Aztec temple incorporated in its construction. It’s an awe-inspiring encounter that should be at the top of your itinerary.

2. The National Palace (Palacio Nacional): A Repository of History

Another stop of great historical significance is The National Palace – Palacio Nacional . With a history tracing back to the Aztec era, this building has served as the Mexican federal government’s seat for centuries. Remarkably, much of the modern palace was constructed from materials from a former palace used by Aztec Emperor Moctezuma II.

Aside from its historical value, the palace houses several murals by famous artist Diego Rivera depicting Mexico’s history in captivating detail. Highlights include the brilliantly colored mural “The Epic of the Mexican People in their Struggle for Freedom and Independence.” This masterpiece, so massive Rivera took years to complete, winds around the palace’s central staircase.

This iconic structure is open from 9 am to 5 pm (excluding Mondays), and entry is free. However, ensure you carry a photo ID for access. For a more insightful experience, consider taking a walking tour with a knowledgeable guide to fully understand this emblematic building’s significance. The tour also covers other historical sites in Mexico City.

3. Zocalo: Heart and Soul of the Mexican Republic

Discover Zocalo , the beating heart and soul of the Mexican Republic. Better known as Plaza de la Constitución, the square extends over an expansive area of 3½ square miles, making it one of Latin America’s most generous open spaces.

Surrounded by national treasures like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, the plaza is forever abuzz with activity – swaying dancers, melodious street musicians, and bustling locals, all contributing to the Zocalo’s lively ambiance.

You won’t be short of things to do here. Start with a guided walking tour to cover all corners of this humongous plaza. Whether you’re looking for the latest big event or just want to soak in the energy of Mexico City, a trip to Zocalo is an absolute must-do on your checklist.

My Complete Mexico Packing List will help ensure you have everything you need.

Museums Immersion in the Hustle-Bustle

4. national museum of anthropology: trip down ancient paths.

The National Museum of Anthropology, or Museo Nacional de Antropología in Spanish, offers a profound and extensive look at Mexico’s indigenous cultural heritage. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from over 2,685 reviews and noted as Mexico City’s most-visited museum, you can immerse yourself here in the ancient civilizations of Mexico.

Notable exhibits include the massive Aztec Sun Stone, Olmec giant carved heads, and the Aztec Xochipilli statue. You can also discover the tomb of Mayan King Pakal, explore Teotihuacan sculptures, and so much more! Their vast collection and detailed exhibits extend across the vast museum, truly making a day trip worthwhile.

You can find the National Museum of Anthropology located in the heart of Chapultepec Park with an entrance fee of just 85 pesos (around 4.35 USD). Because of the museum’s extensive size, guided tours are available, helping visitors identify landmark artifacts and comprehend their importance.

Besides the inside of the museum, don’t forget to stroll around the museum’s ethereal central courtyard featuring a vast ‘umbrella’ stone fountain.

5. Templo Mayor: Glimpse into Aztec History

Unearth pieces of Aztec history at Templo Mayor , the archaeological site that revealed the Aztec Empire’s roots. Discovered in 1978 during electrical cable repairs, it soon became an important landmark, now attracting visitors from all over the world.

Templo Mayor was the main temple of the Mexica people, dedicated jointly to the god of war – Huitzilopochtli, and the god of rain and agriculture – Tlaloc. Today, the site consists of meticulously excavated ruins of the temple, a ceremonial plaza, and a museum holding relics unearthed during excavation.

Standouts among these artifacts are the Coyolxauhqui Stone, a bas-relief of the moon goddess said to represent how Templo Mayor was believed to be the center of the universe, and the eagle warriors – an homage to the elite soldiers in Aztec society.

Set right in the heart of the city, it’s an experience not to be missed for history and archaeology buffs. Don’t forget to check out the museum showcasing Aztec culture and civilization after exploring the ruins. Here, you get to delve deep into the culture and see the Aztec civilization’s intricately carved relics from multiple angles.

Artistic Bridge to Mexico's Culture

6. palacio de bellas artes: unveiling masterpieces.

If you’re an art enthusiast, buckle up for an enriching tour at the Palacio de Bellas Artes . Known as the “cathedral of art in Mexico”, it stands tall in the city’s historic center, calling art lovers worldwide.

Nowhere else in Mexico City will you find such an abundance of art and cultural performances under one beautiful Art Nouveau and Art Deco structure. Starting with the stunning murals by famous artists such as Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros, the palace boasts a variety of artistic genres reflecting different periods.

The Palace of Fine Arts plays host to the Museum of Architecture on the top floor. This allows you to marvel at Mexico’s architectural evolution presented through models and designs. It also houses an extensive collection of 19th- and 20th-century Mexican art in its museum.

On the ground floor, you can enjoy its fabled concert hall, hosting cultural events, ballet performances, and music concerts. Visit during springtime when jacarandas bloom for an unforgettable aesthetic experience.

The entrance is free, although there’s a $70 MXN fee for the museum. This is one visit sure to leave you culturally enriched and artistically inspired.

7. Bustling Art Scene at Museo Frida Kahlo

Glide further into Mexico’s art culture with a visit to the Museo Frida Kahlo , or ‘The Blue House.’ Known for its bold blue façade, it’s the birthplace and family home of one of the most well-known Mexican artists, Frida Kahlo.

This house holds a fascinating collection of personal artifacts, furnishings, sketches, and paintings, offering a glimpse into both the life and artistry of Frida Kahlo. The rooms and gardens are preserved exactly as she and her artist husband, Diego Rivera, had kept them alive with art.

The museum is most well known for drawing in Frida fans with exhibits like “Long Live Life,” “Frida and Diego: Mirrors of Each Other,” “Appearances Can Be Deceiving,” and more. With over 150 museums in Mexico City, Museo Frida Kahlo is among the top picks for art lovers.

Situated in the tranquil Coyoacán neighborhood, visitors can learn about Kahlo’s life, marvel at her art, and even enjoy some on-site special exhibitions. To avoid lines and ensure entry, you’re advised to book tickets in advance, which go for around 230 pesos (or ~$11) for general entry.

Every corner of this place breathes in art, making it a must-visit destination.

Clip-On Baseball Cap Holder

Unique food experiences worth trying, 8. savour a slice of mexico at quintonil.

Mexico City’s culinary scene is among the city’s many highlights, and rightfully so. One of the most notable gastronomical attractions is Quintonil . Run by the dynamic duo Alejandro Bremont and Alejandra Flores, it has established its place among The World’s 50 Best Restaurants.

Why did it make it on our best list? Quintonil masters the art of Mexican cuisine with intriguing dishes like charred avocado tartare with ant larvae and roast chicken with macadamia nut mole. Moreover, the restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients, enhancing its sustainability efforts – a noteworthy aspect.

Here are the top 5 features that make Quintonil a must-try:

• Seasonal 10-course tasting menu
• Inventive use of traditional local ingredients
• Vegan and vegetarian-friendly options
• Wine pairing curated from Mexican wineries
• Garden-like ambiance enhancing the dining atmosphere

Benefits of Dining at Quintonil:

• Authentic taste of Mexico’s flavors
• Refined presentation of every meal
• Insightful waitstaff knowing menu intricacies
• Featured in Netflix’s “Chef’s Table” series
• The honor of dining at one of the world’s best restaurants

Cons: While the food and ambiance are top-notch, the price tag matches that standard. Certainly, it’s worth every penny, but a meal here might be a special occasion or culinary splurge for many. Also, given its acclaim, do make a reservation well in advance as last-minute bookings might not be feasible.

The restaurant suits foodies looking for an upscale dining experience and the joy of tasting one-of-a-kind offerings from Mexican cuisine.

9. Casual yet Delicious Tacos at El Tizoncito

For a more casual foodie experience that equally deserves the label ‘unforgettable’, head to El Tizoncito . Renowned for being the birthplace of the iconic “Tacos al Pastor,” this eatery is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Located in the trendy neighborhood of Condesa, El Tizoncito serves some of the best tacos in Mexico City.

Why would El Tizoncito make the best list? Carved right off the spit, their mouth-watering tacos al pastor, layered with thinly sliced marinated pork, topped with raw onion, fresh cilantro, and slivers of sweet pineapple, are a sensory delight. Besides, they boast an inviting, casual ambiance that feels truly authentic.

Here are the top 5 features of El Tizoncito:

• Birthplace of Tacos al Pastor
• Diverse Taco menu with various fillings
• Family-friendly atmosphere
• Open until late hours
• Multiple Locations

Benefits of dining at El Tizoncito:

• Authentic and scrumptious Mexican fast-food
• Quick service
• Budget-friendly
• Positive vibes from live music occasionally
• Vegan and Vegetarian-friendly options available

The two cons for El Tizoncito would mainly be the waiting time due to its popularity and limited seating space. However, these minor inconveniences are a testament to its outstanding reputation. Ideal for food lovers who want to enjoy delicious, no-fuss Mexican street food in a vibrant setting.

You can’t leave Mexico City without trying their famed Tacos al Pastor!

Quench your Nighttime Thirst for Adventure

10. epic lucha libre matches: fight night in mexico city.

Fancy a taste of the dramatic and vivacious? Step into the world of masked warriors for a night at a Lucha Libre fight. An integral part of Mexican culture, Lucha Libre dates back to the early 20th century. Similar to WWE-style wrestling, the matches feature iconic masked Mexican wrestlers engaging in a part theatrical, part athleticism performance.

What’s the best place to witness a match? The top spot is Arena Mexico in the capital, especially on Tuesday and Friday nights, as well as on Sunday afternoons. Fridays are particularly thrilling as it signals the start of the weekend. Ringside seating, a Lucha Libre mask, tequila: it serves not just as a match but as a full-on fiesta.

Witnessing a Lucha Libre fight is more than just the match – it’s about the audience’s reactions too, making the experience even more entertaining. Conjoining the energy, thrilling performance, and lively crowd, it’s no surprise that the experience has become one of the top things to do in Mexico City.

However, do remember big cameras are not allowed inside, narrowing your memories down to what you store in your mind (or smartphone!) For those seeking an authentic taste of Mexican pop culture and a unique spectacle, a night at the Lucha Libre match is an exhilarating experience you’ll never forget.

11. Experience the World's Favorite Fifty Mils Bar

No trip is complete without experiencing the local nightlife, and when in Mexico’s capital, Fifty Mils is the place to be. Nestled within the elegant Four Seasons Hotel, Fifty Mils has been recognized among the World’s 50 Best Bars, cementing its reputation as a must-visit spot in Mexico City.

Why did it make the best list? Fifty Mils strikes a perfect balance between innovation and tradition, offering a wide selection of libations that play with classic drinks and introduce fresh, locally inspired cocktails. Their desserts, from doughnuts to mochi, served during brunch, also steal the show.

Here are the top 5 features that make Fifty Mils shine:

• Specialist mixologists creating unique cocktails
• Comfortable indoor and patio seating
• Extensive whiskey and tequila selection
• Renowned for brunch
• Unique signature cocktails

Benefits of Unwinding at Fifty Mils:

• Opportunity to taste world-class mixology
• Relaxing and sophisticated ambiance
• Regular live music performances
• Late-night service
• Excellent service from friendly staff

The top two cons: Fifty Mils is on the pricier side and can be quite busy at times, so making a reservation is advised. Fifty Mils is an excellent recommendation for those who cherish the pleasure of savoring creative cocktails in a top-class setting!

Embracing Nature amidst the Urban Jungle

12. escaping to the lush bosque de chapultepec.

Amid the city’s hustle and bustle, you can find your retreat inside the city itself – Bosque de Chapultepec . Consuming more than 1,600 acres, Chapultepec Park is more than just a park; it’s a sanctuary. It is known as “the lungs of Mexico City” due to its vast expanse of foliage. Its vast size and packed roster of attractions make it Latin America’s second-largest park!

The park houses a zoo, eight museums, a lake bobbing with paddleboats, and historical monuments, including the impressive Chapultepec Castle, once a viceroy’s residence and now home to the National History Museum. Street performers, vendors, and picnickers add to the park’s lively energy, especially on weekends.

A special local tip: locals organize a massive evening picnic once a month in Chapultepec’s forests – a unique way to blend in with the locals. It is the perfect place for nature lovers and city dwellers alike, plus heaven for families thanks to the child-friendly activities available at every turn.

So, be sure to set aside some time to explore this vibrant, verdant gem!

13. Soak Up Serenity in the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco

Your journey to Mexico City wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco . Known as Mexico City’s Venice, Xochimilco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often hailed as the last link to the Aztec civilization, with its network of ancient canals and floating islands called “chinampas.”

A visit to Xochimilco is a chance to soak up the serene atmosphere and enjoy the delightfully colorful scenery. Hop aboard a brightly-painted flat-bottomed boat called a “trajinera” and let the journey through the picturesque canals begin.

Adorned with flowers and festoons, the boats are a sight to behold, often led by local guides and serenaded by floating Mariachi bands. Historically, these chinampas were used to grow crops, but today, they serve as massive, floating flower gardens, making Xochimilco one of the world’s most delightful gardens.

Visitors often visit Xochimilco as a day trip, enjoying the leisurely boat ride while feasting on delicious street food sold by canal-side vendors. It’s a fulfilling local experience not to miss and a beautiful sight for nature and photography lovers. Remember to bring your camera; the vibrant, flower-scented canals offer ample picturesque opportunities.

Venture out for Exciting Day Trips

14. ancient marvels at teotihuacan.

Just a short drive away from Mexico City center remains one of the world’s most stunning cultural sites – the ancient city of Teotihuacan . Known as the City of the Gods, it was once the largest metropolis in the region, boasting towering pyramids and intricate murals.

Just as impressive today as it was nearly 2,000 years ago when the ancient Mayans built it, Teotihuacan is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit site near Mexico City.

Teotihuacan isn’t just about the two famous pyramids, the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. It’s an entire ancient city waiting to be explored. Discover remnants of this civilization, including The Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Avenue of the Dead. Climb the pyramids, wander through ancient ruins, or simply appreciate this architectural marvel.

If you have a few days in Mexico City, it’s worth the day trip. Advice from locals suggests leaving early in the morning so you can be back in the city by midday—and definitely bring sunscreen! You can book a tour to see the pyramids with a guide, or if you’d rather explore at your leisure, detailed instructions are available on how to get there yourself.

Make sure to mark this destination on your list; it’s an unforgettable experience of awe and wonder.

15. Spiritual Getaway to Basilica de Santa Maria de Guadalupe

Ascend for a spiritual journey to one of the most visited Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world – the Basilica de Santa Maria de Guadalupe , or the Shrine of Guadalupe. Located atop Tepeyac Hill, it commemorates the Virgin Mary’s legendary 16th-century appearance to Juan Diego, a local peasant.

The shrine houses the original cloak harboring an imprint of Our Lady of Guadalupe’s picture, attracting millions of devoted followers each year. The old and the new Basilica boast an impressive lineup of religious art and captivating architecture, making it more than just a pilgrimage site.

Visitors can explore the Basilica grounds, where each corner unravels its own intriguing chapter from the past. The site becomes especially bustling around mid-December to celebrate Our Lady of Guadalupe’s Feast Day.

Whether you come for the rich history, spiritual devotion, or aesthetic satisfaction, the enchanting Basilica de Santa Maria de Guadalupe stands out as one of Mexico City’s must-visit sites. The feeling of serenity that envelops you within its premises is one worth experiencing.

Don’t forget to stop by their on-site museum, home to a broad collection of religious art.

Niche Nooks Worth Exploring

16. snapshot of literature at biblioteca vasconcelos.

Welcome to Biblioteca Vasconcelos , the centerpiece of learning and literature in the Buenavista neighborhood. Covering an impressive 38,000 square meters, this architectural gem is more than just a library; it’s a hub of education and community, uniting bookworms and architectural enthusiasts alike.

Inside, you’ll find a breathtaking arrangement of hundreds of thousands of books across a seven-level network of floating shelves. With diverse collections ranging from literature to philosophy to science fiction novels, the library is a paradise for readers and knowledge seekers.

Also known as the “megalibrary,” Biblioteca Vasconcelos stuns with its futuristic and near-fictional design. Cantilever bookshelves appear to be floating from the ceiling, while smoked-glass floors give a dizzying multilevel twist, embracing an industrial aesthetic. Unquestionably, this place merits inclusion in your Mexico City itinerary.

Apart from the extensive literary collection, Biblioteca Vasconcelos is an architectural marvel in itself. Grab your camera and let your explorative instincts guide you through this fascinating space of knowledge and marvel.

Remember, it’s not just books; there’s also a large collection of multimedia items, including music and films, all available to the public.

17. Sneak a Peek at surrealist Leon Trotsky’s House

Take a detour from the usual routes and pay a visit to the Leon Trotsky House Museum or “Museo Casa de Leon Trotsky.” This museum, formerly the home of Leon Trotsky – a Russian revolutionary, is a chance to step back in time and understand an intriguing layer of world history.

Exiled from the Soviet Union and seeking asylum, Trotsky settled in Coyoacán, within this very home that now serves as a perfectly preserved snapshot of his life in Mexico. Trotsky lived here until his assassination in 1940, and today, you can explore rooms left intact since then, revealing his humble lifestyle and political intrigues.

For history enthusiasts, the museum offers an offbeat perspective of the life of this once influential figure. It’s also a short walk from Frida Kahlo’s house, making it easy to club both visits during a single day.

While not as frequent as the most popular sites, this museum hosts a wealth of knowledge and a deeper understanding of global history right in Mexico City. Don’t miss the chance to see the preserved rooms, government documents, photos, and the tomb where Trotsky and his wife are interred, located in the garden.

The Trotsky Museum is more than a fascinating share of history; it’s also a unique way to understand how Mexican and world history often become intertwined.

Adding it to your travel itinerary can provide an enriched experience of niche trail exploration.

How safe is Mexico City for tourists?

Mexico City is generally safe for tourists, much like most major U.S. or Canadian cities.

While traveling, it’s always a good idea to be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded places or at night. Keep an eye out for pickpockets, particularly on public transportation, and stick to age-old travel advice, like not flaunting expensive items.

Also, it’s a good idea to check the U.S. or Canadian government travel advisory websites before your trip.

What are the top tourist attractions in Mexico City to see with kids?

Mexico City is a great place to visit with kids.

Top attractions for a family-friendly visit include:

• Papalote Museo del Niño: This hands-on, interactive children’s museum is packed with fun exhibits on science, technology, art, and culture.
• Chapultepec Park: Home to a zoo, a castle, and the National Museum of Anthropology, the park has plenty of attractions sure to captivate kids.
• Xochimilco: Known for its colorful boats and Chinampas (floating gardens), Xochimilco is a fun trip for any family.
• Six Flags Mexico: A great choice for thrill-seekers, Six Flags hosts rides and attractions suitable for all ages.
• Parque Bicentenario: A 55-hectare park with playgrounds, artificial lakes, and a greenhouse. A great spot for a family picnic.

Remember to plan your days according to your kids’ schedules and always have a backup plan in case of an unexpected situation.

How many days are ideal for a Mexico City trip?

While you can get a taste of Mexico City in three days, to fully appreciate the depth and breadth of what the vibrant city offers, ideally, allocate at least five days for your visit.

This will allow you to thoroughly explore the major museums and historic sites, immerse yourself in the local cuisine and markets, and even take a day trip or two outside the city to sites like Teotihuacan or Xochimilco.

This also gives you the flexibility to adapt your schedule based on how you feel each day or if you discover a new, unexpected interest during your trip.

What is the best time to visit Mexico City?

The best time to visit Mexico City largely depends on the weather.

The city can be enjoyed year-round due to its high altitude, offering pleasant temperatures. However, the prime time to visit is between March to May , when the average temperatures are between 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit.

The weather is warm without intense heat or rain, and the city is in full bloom, particularly in February and March , when the jacaranda trees are in bloom.

Another ideal time is between October and December when the weather is also mild and dry. Just note the best weather comes with bigger tourist crowds.

So, if you want to bypass frequent rain, avoid planning your trip in the rainy season, from July to September .

What are some cool things to do around Mexico City for young adults?

Mexico City offers a variety of activities that will appeal to young adults:

• Bar Hop in Roma and Condesa: Known for buzzing nightlife, both neighborhoods boast a selection of hip bars and restaurants.
• Attend a Lucha Libre match: These high-energy wrestling matches offer a unique slice of Mexican culture and a fun night out.
• Explore street art: Mexico City is renowned for its vibrant street art. Discover murals in neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Juarez.
• Bike ride around Chapultepec Park: Rent a bike and explore the city’s “lungs,” home to the largest zoo in Latin America, a castle, and several museums.
• Visit Mercado Roma: This gourmet market is a haven for foodies, with stalls selling everything from artisanal ice cream to tacos and craft beer.
• Take a day trip to the pyramids of Teotihuacan: Just a short drive from the city, Teotihuacan is a must-visit for any history enthusiast.

What are the top 3 fun activities Mexico City is known for?

Mexico City is known for its rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and diverse food scene.

Here are three activities the city is most known for:

• Visiting Teotihuacan: A trip to these ancient pyramids, located just outside of Mexico City, is a must. One can climb the massive Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon and explore the complex’s other ruins.
• Exploring Chapultepec Park: Often referred to as the “lungs of Mexico City,” this expansive park hosts a castle, zoo, and multiple museums. It’s a popular spot for picnics, boat rides, and leisurely walks.
• Dining on Roadside Tacos: With a rich street food culture, devouring tacos from a street stand is a quintessential Mexico City experience. Whether it’s Al Pastor, Carnitas, or Barbacoa, the city’s tacos are known worldwide.

These activities offer a comprehensive experience of the city’s rich history, natural beauty, and tantalizing cuisine and are worth adding to your itinerary.

What are some things to see in Mexico City near the airport?

If you’re near the Benito Juarez International Airport in Mexico City and have some time to spare, here are a few attractions to consider:

• Palacio de los Deportes: A massive sports and entertainment venue, it hosts numerous events throughout the year.
• Templo Mayor: Although it’s a 30-minute drive from the airport, this major archaeological site is worth a visit. Here, you’ll find the ruins of an ancient Aztec pyramid right in the heart of Mexico City.
• Parque Tezontle: A large shopping mall with a variety of stores, restaurants, and a cinema. It’s a great spot for last-minute shopping or a quick meal.
• The Foro Sol: This is another large entertainment and sports venue that hosts a wide range of events, including concerts and baseball games.
• Mercado Sonora: This bustling market is known for its selling spiritual artifacts, medicinal plants, and traditional toys. The market is quite famous amongst Mexico City’s local population.

All these spots are within a short drive from the airport and offer a pleasant excursion if you’re stuck on a long layover or awaiting a delayed flight.

Is Mexico City walkable?

Yes, Mexico City is pleasantly walkable, especially in neighborhoods like Centro Historico, Roma, Condesa, and Polanco.

These areas are dense with attractions, restaurants, and shops, making them perfect for walking tours. The city also has excellent public transportation with its Metro system if you need to cover longer distances.

However, like any major city, it’s always safe to exercise caution, stay aware of your surroundings, and stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night.

Is it cheap to visit Mexico City sights?

Visiting Mexico City is generally quite affordable compared to other major cities. Many of the city’s attractions are free or have nominal entrance fees.

For instance, admission to the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace is free, while museums like the Frida Kahlo Museum and the National Anthropology Museum have affordable tickets. The cost of dining is also relatively low, with a wide range of options from street food to high-end restaurants.

The city’s extensive metro system makes transportation around the city affordable, too. However, costs can add up with guided tours, souvenir shopping, and enjoying the city’s nightlife, so plan according to your budget.

Here are all the Best Places to Visit in Mexico .

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Conclusion: Things to Do in Mexico City

From ancient ruins and iconic landmarks to vibrant markets and world-renowned restaurants, Mexico City offers an exciting mix of cultural, historical, and culinary experiences.

You can admire the splendor of the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace, explore vibrant neighborhoods, dine at some of the world’s best restaurants, and discover Mexico’s rich history at the Anthropology Museum and Teotihuacan.

Whether you wish to delve into the city’s vibrant arts scene, soak up the flavors of street food, or enjoy retracing the steps of ancient civilizations, there is indeed no shortage of things to do in Mexico City.

Take your time and immerse yourself in each experience. Enjoy the moment, the sites, the people, and the culture. After all, exploring Mexico City is not just about ticking off a checklist; it’s about savoring everything the city brings to life. Happy travels!

And if I missed anything, let me know in the comments below!

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6 alternative and arty ways to discover Mexico City culture

Amid art deco architecture and Frida Kahlo’s creations, find Mexico City’s pre-Hispanic traditions and an Indigenous crafts scene.

Mexico’s sprawling capital is a gateway to the country’s Maya ruins, miles of beaches, rocky canyons and traditional Indigenous villages. But many travellers find the metropolis has an allure all of its own, and a handful of days can be well spent touring its neighbourhoods and historic centre. Mexico’s best museums are here, and its many galleries and markets help facilitate one of the strongest creative scenes in Latin America. Dig a little deeper to find the city’s pre-Hispanic roots, and discover how many customs are linked to the ancient Aztec and Maya civilisations.

1. Kayak the ancient canals of Xochimilco

Before the Spanish conquest in 1521, Mexico City, then called Tenochtitlán, was built on two small islands inside Lake Texcoco. The Aztecs built canals and floating farms called chinampas to feed its growing population. Today, all that remains of these ancient waterways are in Tláhuac and Xochimilco, a neighbourhood 15 miles south of Mexico City’s Centro Histórico. Flat-bottomed party boats called trajineras cruise Xochimilco’s canals daily, but a guided kayaking trip provides a more tranquil — and environmentally friendly — visit. Tours offer the chance to spot Xochimilco’s wildlife, including the critically endangered axolotl salamander and more than 200 bird species, while learning about the history and science behind chinampas, which still provide food for Mexico City residents.

2. Browse the Museo de Arte Popular

In the historic centre of Mexico City is the Museo de Arte Popular , a beautifully designed handicraft museum housed inside a 1920s art deco building. The museum, which once served as Mexico City’s fire department headquarters, celebrates traditional Mexican craft in all its forms, from textiles and pottery to children’s toys, furniture and giant alebrijes — mythical creatures made from wood or papier-mache. High-quality crafts from almost every Mexican state are displayed thematically over several floors, including ceramics from Jalisco, piñatas from Puebla and ceremonial masks from Chiapas. Particularly striking are the small but impressive Day of the Dead craft collection and the á rbol de la vida (tree of life) pieces – colourful, intricate clay sculptures depicting the creation of life.

3. Sip on pulque, the drink of the Aztec gods

Pulque is a drink made from the fermented sap of agave, the same plant used to make tequila and mezcal. It has been drunk for more than 2,000 years, making it Mexico’s oldest alcoholic beverage. During the Aztec empire, pulque was considered a sacred drink, reserved for gods, emperors and ceremonial events. The introduction of beer and distilled spirits by the Spanish in the 16th century marked the beginning of the end for pulque, with many of Mexico City’s pulquerias — taverns specialising in the drink — closing between the early 20th and 21st centuries. But a recent resurgence has seen several reopen across the city, making it one of the best places in Mexico to try the tipple. La Canica — a pulqueria in the Tabacalera neighbourhood run by a family that has been in the pulque business for five generations — takes a modern approach to the ancient drink, infusing freshly made pulque with dozens of seasonal flavours, from guava and mandarin to marzipan and toasted oats.

4. Try Mexico City’s ancient caviar

Ahuautle — which loosely translates to ‘seeds of joy’ in the ancient Nahuatl language and are also known as ‘water fly eggs’ — were sacred to the Aztecs. During the rainy season, a type of water fly called axayácatl would lay its eggs in Lake Texcoco. These were harvested for Aztec emperors and used as offerings to the gods. Montezuma, one of the last emperors of the Aztec empire, is said to have eaten them every morning to improve his strength. Hard to get hold of and up to four times more expensive a kilogram than beef, the eggs have been dubbed ahuautle , the ‘caviar’ of Mexico, by the capital’s chefs. Only a handful of restaurants in the capital still serve ahuautle, one of which is Ayluardo’s — in the Iztapalapa neighbourhood, in the east of Mexico City. It serves the water fly eggs — which taste intensely fishy, similar to dried shrimp — in pancakes with tomatillo (a bright green, acidic fruit native to Mexico) and serrano chilli sauce.

5. Support indigenous crafts at Mercado de Artesanías de la Ciudadela

Just a few minutes’ walk from Museo de Arte Popular is this hub for artisans, Mexico City’s largest and best arts and crafts market. It is home to 350 stands selling a huge variety of crafts, or artesanias in Spanish, from all over Mexico, including handblown glass from Jalisco, silver jewellery from Guerrero and patterned chaquira beadwork from Jalisco, crafted by the indigenous Huichol people. For beautiful ceremonial Mayan masks made of wood and obsidian, head to stand 104, where you’ll often see the craftspeople at work. Also seek out the artisans selling amate — colourful works painted on to paper made from the pulp of fig and mulberry trees; the same type of paper was once used by the ancient Aztecs and Mayas to produce manuscripts.

6. Experience Mexican folk dance at El Ballet Folklórico de México

Founded in 1952 by choreographer and dancer Amalia Hernández, Ballet Folklórico celebrates Mexico’s diverse folklore traditions through dance, music and traditional dress. The performances take audiences from Mexico’s ancient past up to the revolution in 1910, travelling through the states of Oaxaca, Jalisco, Sonora, Zacatecas, Guerrero and more. Many of the dances take inspiration from Mexico’s Indigenous cultures, such as the Deer Dance (a contemporary piece that depicts a pre-hunting ritual practised by the Indigenous people of Sonora and Sinaloa) and the Guelaguetza, a folkloric ballet inspired by the ceremonial dances of the Mixtec and Zapotec people of Oaxaca. Performances are held at the Palacio de Bellas Artes — a white-marbled, art nouveau palace commissioned by President Porfirio Díaz in 1905 — on Wednesdays at 8.30pm and Sundays at 9.30am and 8.30pm.

Related Topics

• CULTURAL CONSERVATION
• ART HISTORY
• MODERN HISTORY

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Choose from these editor-loved and award-winning Mexico City hotels.

KARYN MILLET / Casa Polanco

Mexico City lures travelers from around the world with its dynamic culinary scene, architectural marvels, avant-garde art galleries, and exceptionally curated museums. It’s a sprawling metropolis made up of dozens of distinct neighborhoods, or colonias, each of which will impart a distinct flavor on your experience of the city — so it’s important to consider location when booking a stay.

In hip cultural hubs, like Roma Norte and La Condesa, you’ll find tree-lined streets lined with cafes, natural wine bars, and mansions converted into intimate guest houses with leafy terraces, rooftop sushi bars, and even rolling beds. In upscale Polanco, posh and ultra-private hideaways offer respite after an afternoon of strolling through the Bosque de Chapultepec, or shopping along Avenida Presidente Masaryk. For a truly elevated stay, the Paseo de la Reforma is studded with luxury skyscrapers from trusted names like the Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis — and the views continue in the city’s Centro Historico, where you can glimpse iconic landmarks from the rooftop pool of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Whether you’re looking for old-world charm or modern luxury, you’ll find it in the exceptional hotels that made this list, which features properties I’ve researched extensively and in some cases personally enjoyed, plus others that came highly recommended from T+L editors and made our It List , or that T+L readers have voted as their favorites in our annual World’s Best Awards.

The St. Regis Mexico City

St Regis Mexico City

Spacious garden terrace suites and dedicated butler service promise a luxurious getaway at this towering property, located on the edge of leafy Chapultepec Park.

It’s located on Paseo de la Reforma, which is bustling day and night.

Mexico City is a place you tend to experience at street level, which makes the panoramic views from the towering St. Regis uniquely enchanting. All of the 189 rooms and suites in this sleek 31-story property offer floor-to-ceiling vistas over the sprawling city below, hemmed in by the majestic Sierra Madre mountains. Inside, soothing shades of purple and gray conjure quiet luxury in Yabu Pushelberg-designed rooms that boast plush queen- or king-size beds, marble bathrooms, seating areas and dedicated workspaces for business travelers. For a truly memorable stay, book one of the eight suites that opened in 2024, which open out onto dreamy terraces equipped with a plunge pool, hot tub, or fireplace to make the most of the city’s fantastic year-round climate.

This family- and pet-friendly hotel also features an upscale spa with a lap pool, plus on-site dining options ranging from Mexican to Greek to Japanese. But above all, it’s the warm and highly-attentive service that keeps guests coming back, which has repeatedly earned it a spot on our World’s Best Awards list in 2021, 2022, and 2023.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: Reforma
• Distance From Airport: 9 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Glorieta de Insurgentes, Museo de Arte Popular, Monumento a la Independencia
• Accessibility: Deluxe and Grand Deluxe rooms with roll-in shower available
• Rates: Start at $376

Booking Tip

Request a room on a higher floor to avoid street noise.

“It’s hard to argue with the location right on Av. Chapultepec and the airy feeling of the skyscraper rooms above the cacophony.”

– Paul Brady, News Director

JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City Polanco

Marriott Hotels

Business travelers will appreciate the newly revamped executive lounge and private meeting rooms, while art lovers are only a short walk away from the city’s best museums.

Room service, particularly late night, leaves something to be desired — if you’re staying in, opt to dine at one of the four new fantastic on-site restaurants instead.

Overlooking Chapultepec Park, this freshly renovated property earned a spot on our World’s Best Awards list in 2022 thanks in part to its prime location in posh Polanco, which puts you mere blocks away from some of the city’s finest museums, shops, and restaurants. I found it to be an ideal home base while working remotely, as each of the 314 rooms and suites have a desk, plus WiFi is available throughout the hotel — yes, including beside the large outdoor pool.

Waking up here is a cozy affair, with bright and airy rooms offering floor-to-ceiling views over the city, park, or interior courtyard. I loved that I could walk out the door and essentially already be in the park, where daily walks led me to cultural delights like the Museum of Modern Art . Afterwards, I could retreat to the hotels’ intimate Tahona Mezcal Room for a tasting flight. 

• Neighborhood: Polanco
• Distance From Airport: 11 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Jardín Winston Churchill, Parque Lincoln, Plaza Uruguay
• Accessibility: Multiple room categories
• Rates: Start at $391

Las Alcobas, a Luxury Collection Hotel

The well-connected concierge team can curate exceptional experiences in and around the city, from hard-to-nab restaurant reservations to private gallery visits.

There isn’t a pool — but each room is appointed with a roomy jacuzzi bathtub.

There’s only a two-hour time difference between New York City and Mexico City, but that didn’t stop me from luxuriating in the “Jet Lag” bath service upon arriving at Las Alcobas, which was voted as a winner in Travel + Leisure 's 2022 World’s Best Awards. Each of the boutique Polanco property’s 35 rooms include a jacuzzi tub equipped with mood lighting and multiple bubble settings, which a friendly team member will fill upon request and infuse with restorative herbal sachets. For further pampering, indulge in a massage at the Aurora Spa.

Beyond the hotel’s sophisticated design and drool-worthy Anatol restaurant (a contender for the best breakfast in the city), what truly sets it apart is its in-the-know concierge team. They were able to secure me a last-minute reservation at Pujol, and coordinated a fascinating private art tour dedicated to the work and life of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.

• Nearby Attractions: Inbursa Aquarium, Museo Soumaya, Bosque de Chapultepec
• Rates: Start at $436

La Valise Mexico City

Jose Manuel Enero / La Valise

You can sleep under the stars on your own private terrace, thanks to rolling king size beds.

There’s no restaurant on site — but the hotel’s friendly hosts are able to recommend and coordinate reservations at any of the city’s culinary hot-spots.

La Valise Mexico City may be the most exquisitely curated hotel I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying in. Located on a colorful, tree-lined sidestreet in the heart of hip Roma Norte, this charming eight-suite townhouse is like a home away from home — that is, if your home featured a rolling king size bed that glides onto your own private terrace.

The palatial La Terraza, where I spent a few blissful nights, features hardwood floors, shimmering copper accents, and a stylish array of art and furnishings with a distinctly Mexican flair. My partner and I giddily pushed the cloud-like king-size bed out onto our enormous terrace, where a projector meant we could curl up and watch movies al fresco in bed.

Each of the seven other uniquely designed suites boast their own private terraces or balconies, some with outdoor bathing areas and others with hammocks. To combat the inevitable comedown of leaving such a special place, extend your stay at La Valise’s equally-enchanting property in San Miguel de Allende (a winner of T+L’s 2023 It List) or their bohemian beachside getaway in Tulum for a few days.

• Neighborhood: Roma Norte
• Distance From Airport: 7 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Plaza Río de Janeiro, MODO Museo del Objeto del Objeto, Parque México
• Accessibility: No — rooms are accessible by stairs only
• Rates: Start at $471

Ignacia Guest House

Jaime Navarro / Ignacia Guest House

Nine superbly decorated suites surround a lush courtyard in this historic mansion, where you can indulge in one of the best breakfasts the city has to offer.

Several of the suites are modestly sized, but their exceptional design inspires such reverie as to ensure you never feel cramped.

Named after the housekeeper who looked after this 1913 mansion for 70 years, this seductive oasis is one of Roma’s best-kept secrets. It’s home to nine jaw-dropping suites, each with its own distinct personality: four are focused on a central color scheme, such as the romantic Rosa Suite, a jewel-toned pink paradise with a luxurious marble bathroom and private terrace overlooking the lush garden below. More spacious accommodations await on the second level of the townhouse, where suites lead out onto a spectacular patio with a Maya-inspired hot tub.

The mastermind behind this sanctuary is interior designer Andrés Gutiérrez, who helms nearby design mecca Originario , a kaleidoscopic concept store featuring rotating collections of furniture, art, and objects crafted by a new wave of Mexican designers — many of which are featured throughout the hotel.

• Nearby Attractions: Panadería Rosetta, Plaza Río de Janeiro, Parque México
• Accessibility: No — rooms are accessible by stairs only.
• Rates: Start at $335

Casa Polanco

The marble lobby of this meticulously restored 19-room mansion provides one of the most visually striking welcomes a weary traveler could ask for – and it’s only a snapshot of what this sublimely chic property has in store.

It’s one of the most expensive properties on this list — but if you’re looking to splurge, you’d be hard pressed to find more elegant accommodations.

Soon after the iron door of this neoclassical 1940s estate opened to reveal a striking jade marble lobby, Casa Polanco assumed its rightful position on T+L’s 2023 It List. The lobby is a visual extension of neighboring Parque Lincoln, encapsulating the hotel’s alluring ability to celebrate and draw from its surroundings, while offering an ultra-luxe and elegant urban respite.

This is thanks to the vision of owner Octavio Aguilar, who has lived in upscale Polanco for nearly three decades and pays homage to his neighborhood in big and small ways, with rooms featuring linens by Mexican designer Paulina Morán, custom toiletries by local boutique perfumer Xinú , and pastries from the famed DaSilva bakery down the street. Throughout the property, Aguilar’s extensive art collection highlights contemporary Mexican artists, with photographs by Graciela Iturbide and paintings by Ricardo Mazal adorning the walls.

The 19 guest suites are incredibly chic, with glass and wood detailing, herringbone upholstered bed frames, personal libraries, and in some cases, spacious terraces. For such a private space, there’s a prevailing sense of community — it’s like visiting your most Cosmopolitan friend, who provides all the fabulous recommendations and connections you could need, and then draws back to allow you to enjoy it all on your own.

• Nearby Attractions: Chapultepec Castle, Parque de los Espejos, National Museum of Anthropology
• Rates: Start at $550

“The team at Casa Polanco likes to say that staying at the 19-room property is like visiting a friend in Mexico City. That friend turns out to be owner Octavio Aguilar, who spent more than three years expanding and transforming a 1940s Spanish colonial revival mansion into an elegant urban refuge. Aguilar has lived in Polanco — a lush, centrally located neighborhood — for more than 25 years, and Casa Polanco celebrates its environs in ways both big and small. At breakfast, you’ll find perfect pastries from DaSilva, an acclaimed bakery a few blocks away, and a menu created by award-winning local chef Martha Brockman. In every room, there are bottles from Casa del Agua, a local artisanal water boutique; on every bed, linens by the Mexican designer Paulina Morán, and by every sink, toiletries custom-crafted by the high-end perfumer Xinú, whose studio is nearby.”

– Jeff Chu, Editor

Círculo Mexicano

Ricardo Ramos / Grupo Habita

The rooftop offers panoramic views over some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, plus a plunge pool and French-Mexican restaurant.

If proximity to trendy restaurants and bars is what you’re looking for, you’ll be better off basing yourself in Roma or La Condesa — although Centro Histórico is an incredibly convenient location for visiting many of the city’s top sights.

Helmed by Grupo Habita, the hotel group behind many of Mexico’s most sought-after properties, this 2021 It List winner is a standout boutique hotel in the city’s Centro Histórico, surrounded by architectural wonders. From the rooftop, you can slip into the plunge pool with a cocktail in hand, taking in superlative sunset views over nearby landmarks such as the excavated remnants of the Aztec Templo Mayor. The building itself has a storied history of its own: formerly the home of Mexican photographer Manuel Álvarez Bravo, it displays his work throughout the convivial public spaces.

You’ll find refuge from the city’s bustle in the 25 whitewashed, oak-accented guest rooms, 18 of which open onto a sunny patio. Others boast private balconies overlooking the famed Metropolitan Cathedral. The bright, airy rooms are minimalist havens, lit up by skylights and grounded by dreamy beds on raised platforms, sheathed in luxurious linens made by Mexican artisans. 

• Neighborhood: Centro Histórico
• Distance From Airport: 4 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Metropolitan Cathedral, Palacio de Bellas Artes, Museo de la Ciudad de México, Alameda Central, Diego Rivera Museum
• Rates: Start at $206

Sofitel Mexico City Reforma

Christopher Amat / Sofitel Mexico City Reforma

Home to one of the city’s most alluring rooftop bars and an indulgent spa, this skyscraper is like a universe of its own.

While the skyline views are hard to beat and the renowned Sofitel service is exceptional, the sheer size of this 275-room skyscraper offers an inherently less intimate experience than the boutique properties on this list.

History meets modern luxury in this spectacular skyscraper on Paseo de la Reforma, where the sleek 40-story tower rises out of a carefully restored 1983 building. Sofitel’s legendary service and attention to detail earned it a spot on our 2020 It List, and both continue to be on display at this 275-room property, which features 56 suites — all of which provide mesmerizing views over the city. For an even more jaw-dropping vista, head to Citizyn, the rooftop restaurant and bar that attracts a well-heeled clientele.

For those looking to relax after a long day of sightseeing, the spa is an unparalleled wellness retreat. A steam bath, hot and cold tubs, as well as a sauna and a heated saltwater pool promise to help you unwind, as do the indulgent massage treatments. For fitness enthusiasts, there’s a studio on the 38th floor with everything you could need — plus, a spectacular view over the city. 

• Nearby Attractions: Museo Casa de Carranza, Museo de Memoria y Tolerancia, Palacio de Correos
• Accessibility: Multiple room categories, notably their “Smart Rooms”
• Rates: Start at $267

A treetop sushi bar and trendy patio restaurant offer delightfully different places to drink in (and devour) some of the city’s best bites.

The entry-level rooms are on the smaller side.

Bordering two of the city’s most popular neighborhoods, Condesa DF sits at the intersection of Roma and Condesa. It’s a fusion of the former’s youthful, trendy appeal, and the latter’s relaxed, bohemian energy — all the more impressive when you consider it opened in 2005, long before the bloom of design hotels that later spread across the neighborhoods. Each of the tranquil, monastic-inspired 40 rooms and suites are filled with natural light and softened by cream-colored drapes, with warm wood accents throughout. Some offer leafy terrace views over neighboring Parque España, while all feature relaxing rain showers.

The hotel draws a young and local crowd to its French-inspired Mexican restaurant, set in the central tree-lined patio. Further up, surrounded by purple Jacaranda trees, Japanese chef Keisuke Harada serves excellent sushi on the bustling rooftop terrace. 

• Neighborhood: Condesa
• Distance From Airport: 8.5 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Chapultepec Castle, Parque Espana, Parque Mexico
• Accessibility: Multiple rooms, call for further information
• Rates: Start at $283

Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City

Four Seasons Resorts

Spectacularly comfortable beds promise a restorative night’s sleep, while private terraces overlooking the leafy courtyard beckon for your morning coffee.

The classic property tends to draw business travelers and families — younger couples and singles may prefer some of the more intimate boutique properties on this list.

A hacienda-style haven built around a verdant central courtyard, the Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City clinched a spot on our World’s Best list 2023 largely thanks to its fantastic location, dedicated concierge staff, and peaceful inner garden. 240 rooms, including 40 spacious suites, welcome business travelers, celebrities, and families from around the world who know they can rely on the Four Seasons to deliver its legendary luxury service. The rooms are stylishly appointed with ornate tapestries, rope accents, and abstract carpets, with marble bathrooms boasting luxuriously deep tubs. Several rooms feature French doors that lead out to private terraces.

The hotel’s ivy-covered, tree-lined courtyard is centered around a fountain and a firepit, where you can enjoy a drink from the renowned Fifty Mills gastrobar. Several other eateries promise something to sate every craving, from Italian to Mexican food and a French pastry shop. To unwind, visit the spa for an ancestral-inspired massage — or opt to get one poolside on the roof. 

• Distance From Airport: 8 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Estela de Luz, Museo de Arte Moderno, Chapultepec Castle
• Accessibility: Multiple rooms categories
• Rates: Start at $530

“[Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City] has everything you expect from a Four Seasons – a stately lobby, good restaurants, thoughtful service, a decent gym, plush rooms, thick robes, and more.”

– Denny Lee, Articles Editor

Nima Local House Hotel & Spa

Nima Local House

Located on a delightful tree-lined street in Roma, this exclusive, sunlit guest house is a perfect home base for couples.

Given the property’s small size and convivial public spaces, it may not be ideal for those looking for an ultra-private hideaway.

Equal parts cozy and charming, this mansion-turned-guest house enchants from the first glance. The white facade catches your eye from one of Roma’s leafy side streets with its wrought-iron balcony and French doors, drawing you into a small, sun-drenched courtyard. Up the wooden stairs, you’ll find four guest rooms thoughtfully appointed in sophisticated, neutral tones, with balconies leading onto the street or overlooking the interior garden.

The service here is exceptional and warm, yet never intrusive: with so few rooms, there’s a level of dedication that’s impossible to come by in larger accommodations, and the staff will gladly help coordinate bespoke tours or tastings around the city. Up on the roof, a red-brick courtyard offers a jungle-like oasis, where you can sneak away for live jazz sessions on Thursday nights. While the spa is small, it offers couples massages, reiki sessions, and private yoga classes.

• Distance From Airport: 6 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Plaza Rio de Janeiro, Parroquia de la Sagrada Familia, Licorería Limantour
• Accessibility: No — rooms are only accessible by stairs
• Rates: Start at $500

Downtown Mexico Hotel

A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic (and stunningly beautiful) building is a design-lover’s paradise — plus, it boasts a sexy rooftop pool and 24-hour room service.

The open-concept style bathrooms may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

History buffs need look no further for their ideal accommodations than this 17th-century colonial mansion, which touts UNESCO World Heritage status as one of the oldest buildings in Mexico’s historic center. Industrial touches, traditional tiled floors, terracotta brickwork, and vaulted ceilings marry the old and the new throughout the 17-room palace, where minimalist wood furnishings allow the building itself to take center stage.

Their much-lauded breakfast is served on the open-air patio, where you can admire the arresting fresco painted in 1944 by muralist Manuel Rodríguez Lozano, a contemporary of Diego Rivera. While you’re perfectly located for exploring nearby monuments and museums, be sure to leave time to kick back on the trendy rooftop, where a serene pool, hot tub, and cocktail bar await.

• Neighborhood: Centro Historico
• Distance From Airport: 4.5 miles
• Nearby Attractions: The Templo Mayor, the National Museum of Art, the Palace of Fine Arts
• Accessibility: Elevator, but no adapted rooms
• Rates: Start at $185

Ritz-Carlton CDMX

The Ritz-Carlton practically invented luxury, and this exclusive address is a haven for jetsetters looking for modern accommodations and maximal attention to detail.

If you’re looking for next-level luxury with a more local touch than what an international chain can provide, consider an upscale boutique property like Casa Polanco instead.

The Ritz-Carlton is synonymous with luxury living, so it’s no surprise this lavish hotel has a helipad with private access to guest room floors. If it’s opulent accommodations you’re after, book a splurge-worthy night at the Ritz-Carlton Suite, a glass enclave in the sky with never-ending views over the city.

For those of us coming in from the ground up, the deluxe rooms are still superbly spacious, with ample natural light, marble bathrooms, city views, and stylish furnishings — it’s no wonder the hotel earned a coveted spot on our World’s Best list in 2023. A sky bar offers dizzying views, while the dazzling indoor swimming pool offers the perfect place to unwind. A state-of-the-art fitness center and refined spa round out the hotel’s superlative amenities. 

• Neighborhood: Cuauhtémoc
• Distance From Airport: 10 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Angel de la Independencia, Jardín Botánico de Chapultepec,  Monument to Cuauhtémoc
• Accessibility: All room categories offer mobility-accessible rooms, only some offer roll-in showers
• Rates: Start at $499

Also available to book at AirBnB

This culinary-focused bed-and-breakfast is a passion project from Enrique Olvera, the legendary head chef and owner of Pujol.

While you’ll have access to a highly dedicated concierge, this is a private apartment; also note that there’s a lively mezcal bar downstairs, so it’s not a great fit for light sleepers or those with children.

Culinary pioneer Enrique Olvera’s restaurant, Pujol, has continually earned the distinction of being one of the highest-ranked restaurants in the world; when it relocated in 2017, Olvera reinvented the former space as Ticuchi, a mezcal bar. Both spaces are notoriously difficult to secure reservations for — that is, except for guests of Casa TEO, who get priority access to both.

Above Ticuchi, Olvera transformed a two-bedroom apartment into an artist's residency of sorts, welcoming chef friends from around the world to cook dinners around an open kitchen and 10-person communal table. Now, the unique space is available to book for the public in between residencies. You’ll have the apartment to yourself, with its two airy bedrooms decorated with Scandinavian-style wardrobes and plush white beds. The dedicated concierge team is a true highlight, offering unparalleled service when it comes to coordinating dinner reservations, private cooking classes, or general recommendations. Downstairs, you can mingle with Pujol alumni in the in-house library or light-filled kitchen, where a chef-cooked breakfast is included.

• Nearby Attractions: Museo de Arte Moderno, Museo Tamayo Arte Contemporáneo, Bosque de Chapultepec
• Rates: Start at $395

Campos Polanco

Vibrant, apartment-style residences offer an artistic and sumptuous place to hide away, while delightfully designed common areas make for social gathering hubs.

The common areas can be reserved for private events, which is wonderful if you’re hosting, but a slight inconvenience if you’re looking to take advantage of them when they’re booked up.

Named as one of the most distinguished new additions to Polanco’s elevated hotel scene, Campos Polanco is a destination in its own right. Housed in a fabulously refurbished Art Deco building on the exclusive Campos Eliseos, it’s an apartment-style space designed to ignite your creativity. Each of the 12 rooms and suites is a whimsical hideaway, from “smaller” rooms, like the 318 square-foot Park Terrace — which features a generous outdoor space that rivals the room in size — to the deliriously massive, 1,500 square-foot Campos Residence, a wonderland of colors and textures with a chef’s kitchen, free-standing bathtub, floating fireplace, and wraparound terrace.

While the rooms offer exceptional privacy, the common areas — including a rooftop terrace, library, salon, and co-working space — are warm and inviting social hubs that can be reserved for meetings, cocktail parties, and private dinners. Given its thoughtful design, spacious accommodations, and tony location, the rooms are surprisingly well priced. 

• Distance From Airport: 10.5 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Bosque de Chapultepec, Museo Soumaya, Museo Jumex
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Rates: Start at $277

Know Before You Go

Stick to bottled water.

Generally speaking, tap water is not considered safe to drink in Mexico, so stick to bottled water. Most hotels will provide bottled water in your room, and provide refills free of charge. For a more environmentally-considerate approach, you can always buy a large jug of water to keep in your accommodation, which you can use to refill a reusable water bottle throughout your trip.

Learn some basic Spanish

It’s always a polite and respectful gesture to learn a few essential words or phrases in the local language before heading to a new destination. This is especially true in Mexico City, which is an economic and cultural capital of Latin America —  unlike tourist-driven resort destinations like Cancún or Puerto Vallarta, not everyone here will speak English.

Being able to greet and thank people in Spanish, plus ask for common necessities (like the bathroom or the check), will go a long way.

Don’t forget to leave a tip

Mexico City’s tipping culture is quite similar to the U.S. Be sure to leave at least a 10 percent tip at restaurants, for tour guides, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. 15 percent is considered standard, particularly around tourist attractions, while 20 percent is a sign of excellent service.

Make reservations in advance

To avoid disappointment, be sure to make restaurant reservations well in advance — particularly for world-famous restaurants like Pujol , Contramar , Quintonil , and Máximo Bistrot , which can book up months in advance. If you find you’re out of luck, consider a lunchtime reservation, or see if your hotel concierge can pull some strings.

While it’s a good idea to book any museum tickets in advance, certain popular destinations, like the Museo Frida Kahlo or the Casa Luis Barragan , sell out faster than others.

Opt for Uber over regular taxis

While pink-and-white taxis are abundant in Mexico City, you can sometimes end up in an unauthorized or unmetered cab. To avoid any issues, stick to ride-share apps like Uber for reliably safe and affordable rides. In addition to cheaper fares, there’s peace of mind in knowing the price upfront, and in being able to track any belongings accidentally left behind.

How We Chose These Hotels

Mexico City’s thriving hotel scene has bloomed in recent years, and it’s no easy task to pare down the dozens of luxurious, well-appointed properties. Many of the hotels made this list because they’ve earned rave reviews from thousands of T+L readers, who voted them as their favorite properties around the globe in our annual World’s Best Awards (see the 2023 winners here ) and/or made our exclusive It List.

In addition to those award-winning properties, the author of this article, Sophie Dodd , contributed her expertise as a travel writer specializing in luxury and boutique hotels. While working remotely from Mexico City for several weeks, she had exceptional experiences at several of the properties included here, such as La Valise Mexico City, JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City, and Las Alcobas, a Luxury Collection Hotel, which she previously reviewed for T+L. She also consulted other editor-favorite hotels in the city, and read through hundreds of reviews. She prioritized the quality of the guest experience, aesthetic appeal, comfort, concierge services, and amenities such as spas and on-site restaurants. She also considered location, level of service, and overall value.

And finally, as with all our hotel roundups, editors ensure all hotel recommendations we make align with our core T+L Hotel Values .

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The Best Hotels in Mexico City, From Art Deco Guesthouses to Minimalist Hideouts

By Michaela Trimble

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There’s a reason Mexico is one of the most coveted destinations to visit in Latin America—and why the best hotels in Mexico City are an excellent play to start immersing yourself in the culture. Warm and deeply hospitable, with some of the best food in the world and a flourishing art and design scene, Mexico City is a great place to visit any time; the weather is perfect nearly year-round.

Whether you opt to stay in Mexico City’s Centró Historico district, where icons like the La Catedral Metropolitana and the Museo de Templo Mayor are within easy reach, or you prefer to venture to Condesa , where parks and green spaces are as abundant as natural wine bars and convivial cafés, you can’t go wrong. Below, our guide to the best hotels in Mexico City.

Vogue ’s Favorite Hotels in Mexico City

• For a Home Away From Home: Ignacia Guesthouse
• For Impeccable Views: Ritz Carlton Mexico City
• For a Luxurious Work Trip: Four Seasons Mexico City
• For a Creative Escape: Hotel San Fernando
• For Monastic Calm: Octavia Casa
• For Contemporary Art Fans: Colima 71
• For an Intimate Retreat : La Valise Mexico City
• For Upscale Design: Campos Polanco
• For Music Lovers: Volga

Ignacia Guesthouse

This Beaux-Arts mansion was first built in 1913 as a private family home and is now one of the top boutique properties in the Roma Norte borough. Named after the home’s housekeeper, Ignacia, who worked at the mansion for more than forty years, the nine-suite property—featuring a salon, dining room, kitchen area, and three suites set in the original structure—is sought after for its cozy feel, as if you’re staying at the home of a well-to-do friend. In partnership with construction firm Factor Eficiencia, the designer Andrés Gutiérrez was tapped to create a new extension of the property, which now houses four suites designed in color-blocked interiors, from a gold-hued room to one decked in shades of rose. In 2022, two balcony suites were added, which share a common outdoor space adorned with fireplaces and a jacuzzi framed by treetops. During a stay, guests are privy to elaborate breakfast spreads that present Mexican classics like huevos rancheros and chilaquiles in the highest quality manner with ingredients sourced from traditional markets around the city.

• Amenities: Outdoor courtyard, library, specialty coffee, homemade breakfast
• Editor’s tip: Don’t miss the property’s daily happy hour. Complimentary drinks are served in the courtyard daily from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Address: Jalapa 208, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Casa Polanco

By Lorena Meouchi

By Leah Faye Cooper

By Hannah Coates

Located on the iconic Parque Lincoln in the ritzy Polanco borough, situated beyond a wrought-iron entranceway shrouded in greenery, this Spanish Colonial Revival estate was originally built as a private residence in the 1940s. After undergoing a meticulous four-year restoration process overseen by the architect Claudio Gantuz, Casa Polanco is now one of the area’s top boutique hotels, host to 19 opulent suites and one of the city’s top art collections. Interior design mother-daughter team Monica Romo and Monica Novelo of Casa M+M selected an eclectic mix of both classic and retro furniture to accent the property, which can first be seen in the foyer, a space made cozy with velvet olive furnishings and a marble fireplace. Within the home are green marble floors made even more vibrant by whitewashed walls, as well as a spiral staircase that leads to the suites. Within most of the rooms are two areas—a living and a workspace—as well as walnut wood flooring and custom furnishings by Alfonso Marina, one of Mexico’s finest cabinetmakers.

• Amenities: Private art collection, library, spa, and gym
• Editor’s tip: Browse the property’s private art collection, including abstract works by Jordi Boldó and black-and-white images by the contemporary photographer Graciela Iturbide.
• Address: Luis G. Urbina 84, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Ritz Carlton Mexico City

When it comes to impeccable views, the Ritz Carlton Mexico City has one of the best. Located within the towering, 58-story Chapultepec Uno skyscraper, of which the property occupies thirteen floors, the hotel’s interiors nod to the surrealist movement with a mix of metals, mirrors, and glass to create a reflective, sometimes perception-bending view of the city. Perched above the wide Paseo de la Reforma avenue, the hotel has a bird’s eye view of one of the city’s most iconic sites: Castilo de Chapultepec, once the home of the Spanish Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota. Of the 153 guest rooms, 19 are suites, some with private terraces with seating areas, dining and living rooms, and spacious marble bathrooms with soaking tubs. During a stay, guests can dine at Samos, the property’s Mediterranean-inspired eatery located on the 38 th floor, or cocktails at Carlotta, the sky bar with unmatched views.

• Amenities: Mediterranean restaurant, cocktail bar, spa, sweeping views
• Editor’s tip: Guests who prefer to skirt the grips of Mexico City traffic can arrive at the property by landing at its very own rooftop helipad.
• Address: Av. P.º de la Reforma 509, Cuauhtémoc, 06500 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Four Seasons Mexico City

Located on the bustling Paseo de la Reforma avenue where the lavender blooms of jacaranda trees blossom every spring, this hacienda-style property is one of the classic luxury hotels of the city. It’s one of the top choices of celebrities visiting the city, too, including the likes of Taylor Swift and Dua Lipa. Beyond the dimly lit lounge—where velvet sofas and a café offer an intimate setting for casual business meetings—is the heartbeat of the property: the central courtyard, an area draped in fruit trees, tropical plants, and Mexican art. It’s also where guests can access the hotel’s restaurant, Zanaya, a seafood-forward eatery that showcases the fresh catch of Mexico’s Pacific Coast, and Fifty Mils, one of the top cocktail bars in Latin America. Beyond the courtyard are over 200 guestrooms, of which 40 are suites, either with a courtyard view or a view of the skyline, outfitted with rich interiors like hardwood floors and a color palette of persimmon, sky blue, and gold.

• Amenities: Two restaurants, café, bar, spa, and a rooftop pool
• Editor’s tip: The property is set steps from the first section of the Bosque de Chapultepec, a verdant green space host to cobbled walkways perfect for running and the Castilo de Chapultepec, a historic hilltop castle that’s now the National Museum of History.
• Address: Av. P.º de la Reforma 500, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, 06600 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Hotel San Fernando

Just steps from the Condesa neighborhood’s jacaranda-lined Parque Mexico, Hotel San Fernando is a tucked-away boutique hotel button-holed between a natural wine bar and a café. When guests first arrive at the Art Deco building—it was originally built as an apartment complex in 1947 and has since been converted into a hotel by the Texas-based Bunkhouse group—they’re greeted by a minty façade lined with potted plants and an outdoor seating area, an extension of the ground-floor bar that offers Agave-based cocktails and classic Mexican small plates by evening. Adjacent to the space is the lobby, an area perfumed with copal incense and adorned with jewel-toned seating. Just beyond is a staircase that leads guests to the 19 candy-colored suites. Each offers walls shaded in pops of coral and features accents produced by Mexico-based creatives, from plywood furniture designed by the design firm La Metropolitan and customized bedside lighting and decorative lamps by the studio Oaxifornia, to artwork by the likes of Ricardo Guevara, Juan Carlos Breceda, and Pedro Friedeberg.

• Amenities: Rooftop, restaurant, bar, suites with fully-equipped kitchens
• Editor’s tip: Travelers can bring their dog in tow, as the property is pet-friendly and located next to the top dog park in Condesa.
• Address: Iztaccihuatl 54, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc, 06100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Octavia Casa

This minimalist bed-and-breakfast is the work of the fashion designer Roberta Maceda, of label Octavia, who set about creating the oasis of her dreams alongside her mother after the duo purchased a crumbling building in the Condesa neighborhood. After demolishing the building and starting fresh, the duo built Octavia Casa. On a block of otherwise colorful façades, this contemporary, three-story building is distinct: designed by the architect Pablo Pérez Palacios, the entrance is marked by teca-wood panels and planters overflowing with jasmine. Within, guests are greeted in the lobby marked by walls brushed with chukum , a lime and concrete finish first used by the Maya of southern Mexico. In the lobby is a seating area with bamboo stools set adjacent to a breakfast nook: a tranquil garden with pebbled flooring and shade provided by a fruiting Japanese guava tree. Up a staircase are seven suites, each in varying size—two studios, a large apartment-style suite, and four standard rooms—and which showcase the works of some of Mexico’s premier design studios, from ceramics by Encrudo to glassware by Onora Casa. While the property doesn’t have a restaurant, it does offer daily breakfasts with coffee, juice, and pastries provided by the next-door bakery.

• Amenities: Rooftop, continental breakfast, natural wine menu
• Editor’s tip: On the rooftop terrace, a space filled with Acapulco chairs and terrazzo tables, guests can enjoy the sunset over the property’s selection of Mexican natural wines.
• Address: Av. Amatlan 126, Hipódromo Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, 06170 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

For contemporary art enthusiasts, a stay at Colima 71 in the Roma Norte neighborhood is ideal. Designed by the famed Mexican architect Alberto Kalach—who is best known for his design of private homes and boutique hotels along the Oaxacan coast—the brutalist-style property melds elemental materials with the tree-lined natural surroundings of the neighborhood. When guests first enter, they’re greeted by a lobby with velvet furnishings and a floor-to-ceiling installation of black-and-white photography by the artist Iñaki Bonilla. Further inside is another sculpture, this one by Guatemalan artist Darío Escobar made from found objects like bicycle tires and steel. It matches the aesthetic of the steel and glass elevator that takes guests up to the floors host to 16 apartment-style suites. Within each are refined furnishings and well-equipped kitchens that make the suites perfect for extended stays in the area. Though the property doesn’t have a restaurant, guests are offered direct-to-suite delivery of morning pastries and specialty coffee.

• Amenities: Cozy lounge, stocked bar, extensive library
• Editor’s tip: Be sure to help yourself to the honesty bar near the lounge, replete with a luxurious green marble tabletop sourced from Iran.
• Address: Colima 71, col. , Del, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

La Valise Mexico City

Set in a renovated 1920s French-style townhouse, this boutique property is located near all the best art galleries, restaurants, bars, and cafés in the Roma Norte neighborhood. With only eight expansive suites, the hotel offers an unmatched level of intimacy, with an ever-attentive team ready to assist guests during their stay by booking experiences ranging from a taco and Mezcal tour to hot air balloon rides over the ruins of Teotihuacán. Each of the suites feels more like a studio apartment by design and features bespoke Mexican artifacts, vintage objects, and furnishings selected by the brand’s design director, Roberto Ayala. For the most unique stay, guests can book one of the suites that offers a rolling slide-out king bed that allows guests to sleep outdoors on a private terrace. Not only does it offer a distinct way to soak up the cityscape, but the hotel also offers in-suite projectors for movie nights al fresco.

• Amenities: Daily breakfast, nightly turn-down service, in-room projectors
• Editor’s tip: La Valise is just around the corner from Panadería Rosetta, where guests can order afternoon croissants, cappuccinos, and green juice.
• Address: Tonalá 53, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Campos Polanco

Overlooking the República Del Líbano garden and only one block from the tranquil Parque Lincoln, Campos Polanco is one of the newest hotels in the posh Polanco borough. Beyond the reception area of the six-floor Art Deco building—a space decorated with a mustard leather sofa and walnut lounge chairs upholstered in black leather or blue velvet—is a spiral terrazzo staircase that guests can use to access the hotel’s suites. Each level of the building has a shared space, from a library to a dining table, perfect for family gatherings. While some suites are studio in style, more akin to traditional hotel rooms, some of the largest rooms are more residential and offer living areas with fireplaces, fully-equipped kitchens, as well as open-concept bathrooms with claw-foot porcelain soaking tubs, making them ideal for extended stays in the city. Each morning, guests can enjoy breakfast in the downstairs courtyard or within a cozy breakfast nook with dishes that include recipes prepared by the chef Diego Isunza Kahlo, the great-grand-nephew of Frida Kahlo.

• Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, robust art collection, top-floor terrace
• Editor’s tip: Guests will be surprised when they enter their rooms and find a sampling of Mexican chocolate paired with Oaxacan mezcal produced in the Santiago Matatlán region.
• Address: Campos Elíseos 361, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11540 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Círculo Mexicano

If travelers seek to experience the iconic sites of Centro Historic, there’s no better boutique property to stay in the city. Located on the cobbled pedestrian street in downtown Mexico City, this property—first built as a 19th-century townhome and the former residence of the late photographer Manuel Álvarez Bravo—feels like staying at a minimalist bazaar. On the ground floor are a series of shops, a courtyard seafood restaurant, and a cantina-style bar called Itacate del Mar for takeaway snacks. Above are the 25 Shaker-style guest suites, each replete with oakwood furnishings produced by the design studio La Metropolitana and some with exposed brick Catalan vault ceilings. But perhaps the property’s most incredible feature is the rooftop, host to an infinity pool, cocktail bar, and heated dipping tub. It also has one of the best views in the city: an unobstructed vista of Catedral Metropolitana, Palacio Nacional, and the Templo Mayor museum.

• Amenities: Ground-floor restaurants and shops, rooftop cocktail bar with outdoor pool
• Editor’s tip: If you can’t get a reservation at the hit restaurant Contramar, the courtyard of this hotel offers another restaurant by chef Gabriela Cámara, a seafood eatery and a cantina-style bar called Itacate del Mar.
• Address: República de Guatemala 20, Mexico City 06000, Mexico

Guests will know they’ve arrived at the Condesa DF when they glimpse a crimson 1940s Chevrolet Coupe at the entrance of an idyllic French Neoclassical building. The art installation by the contemporary Mexican artist Betsabeé Romero sets the tone for a stay at this boutique hotel, set within a private mansion first built in the 1920s. The architect Javier Sánchez led the building’s renovation into a 40-room hotel, while the Parisian (and AD100 !) interior designer India Mahdavi created the furnishings of the minimalist, monastic-style suites. The result is a contemporary boutique property with a touch of nostalgia, nodding to a time when the mansion halls still hosted fanciful dinner parties and soirees. On any given morning, guests can take to the ground-floor eatery to cowork aside city residents while enjoying breakfast spreads and evenings at the rooftop terrace, where sushi is served alongside views of Parque España and the Castilo de Chapultepec.

• Amenities: Ground-floor café and restaurant, rooftop terrace, speakeasy and vinyl room
• Editor’s tip: The property hosts a ground-floor café that serves Kyoto-style coffee and a sultry new speakeasy and vinyl room for after-hours listening sessions.
• Address: Avenida Veracruz, 102 Colonia Condesa, 06700 Mexico City, Mexico

As if London landed in the heart of the Polanco neighborhood, The Alest is singular in its appeal. At the sleek black entryway, bright red tables are set below baby blue pergolas. Beyond, a mirror-lined corridor leads to the lobby, an opulent space featuring a seating area and library. Adjacent is 45 Bar and Restaurant, a half-moon-style bar lined with leather stools and a greenhouse-style restaurant reminiscent of a sunroom from yesteryear, replete with plaid-upholstered seating. It’s in this space where chef Emmanuel Gomez Avila serves up contemporary Mexican fare with a touch of European flair. Up a marble staircase are the 19 rooms, each decked in works by Mexican artists and equipped with Carrara marble bathrooms, Italian-style hardwood floors, and Le Labo amenities. For the best view, guests can book one of the three suites, all offering expansive terraces overlooking the tranquil Eugenio Sue Street.

• Editor’s tip: The property offers complimentary bikes for guests to explore the city.
• Address: 45 Eugenio Sue Polanco IV Sección, Mexico City, CDMX, 11550

Located in the Cuauhtémoc borough, only one block from Paseo de la Reforma Avenue, Volga is a sophisticated boutique property and a destination for the city’s cool kids. Within, the city’s contemporary art movement is on full display at a dedicated art exhibition space and a concept store curated by local tastemaker Sally Gallante. Designed by JSa Architecture, Volga features a brutalist exterior that leads to a contemporary minimalist interior made moody with large-scale lava, stone, brass, and travertine installation by the artist Perla Krauze. Beyond the ground floor courtyard are 50 guest rooms, including 14 suites adorned with Turkish marble and a soothing scent from the perfumery Aromaria. Restaurateur Edo Kobayashi curates Volga’s refined Mediterranean restaurant, Elora, while the rooftop pool bar is more casual and offers small bites and cocktails with sweeping panoramic views of Mexico City. With music as a core artistic focus, Volga hosts a calendar of live performances both on the rooftop and in its underground music room.

• Editor’s tip: Guests should ask about the property’s tucked-away mezcaleria and tasting table.
• Address: Río Volga 105 Cuauhtemoc, Mexico City, 06500

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