MEXICO CITY TRAVEL GUIDE

With over twenty million residents, Mexico City is the largest city in North America and the sixth-largest city in the world. This megalopolis is full of food, people, energy and mezcal. Whether you are looking to explore ancient Aztec ruins, taste culinary greatness, or walk through exquisite architecture, Mexico City is a trip that will not disappoint. Rebranded back in 2016 as CDMX, this vast cultural playground welcomes all. 

Due to the city’s size and sprawl, it's most likely you will not see all the travel highlights on your first trip, and that’s okay! My favorite neighborhoods to explore were Centro Historico, Polanco, Roma Norte and Condesa, but there was so much more I wanted to see. Make a “next time” list. I guarantee you will be back. 

MUST SEE

• MUSEO FRIDA KAHLO (La Casa Azul)

In the heart of residential Coyoacán, plan to spend a morning or afternoon at the famous and former home of renowned artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Stroll through La Casa Azul and view a collection of works by Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera. 

Pro Tip: Buy your tickets ahead of time to ensure a spot (or brave the long lines), note photography is not allowed unless you pay an additional $30 pecos for a “photography permit”.   

• MERCADO DE COYOACÁN 

Close to the Frida Kahlo museum, this energetic market is packed with plenty of food stalls selling all the classics like tostadas, quesadillas and tacos! The narrow aisles have food vendors and loads of bright and colorful souvenirs.

• MUSEO JUMEX 

Architects must stop. Designed by Architect David Chipperfield, this subtle building is tucked away, adjacent to towering Museo Soumaya. But do not be fooled, this museum offers a variety of contemporary art exhibitions worth exploring. 

• MUSEO SOUMAYA

Since its construction in 2011, this building in Polanco has quickly become one of the most iconic and controversial pieces of architecture in Mexico City. Designed by Fernando Romero it’s controversial due to its “windowless design” but instantly recognizable as the façade is covered by thousands of metallic hexagons. 

• TORRE INSIGNIA

I put this on the list for all the architecture enthusiasts that are searching for the most unique buildings in Mexico City. The triangular shaped tower was designed by Mario Pani and has a reinforced concrete frame with a set of bells (carillon) at the top. 

• CHAPULTEPEC PARK 

More commonly referred to as “Bosque de Chapultepec” in Mexico City, this park is Mexico City’s equivalent to Central Park and is the oldest and largest urban park in Latin America.

• LUCHA LIBRE 

For a perfect fun night out with friends, try a traditional Lucha Libre wrestling match! Arena México, on the edge of Roma Norte, is high energy.  We opted for an Airbnb Experience, which I highly recommend. We were able to meet a Lucia Libre fighter before the match and learn the rules and who to cheer for! (because you definitely do not want to cheer for the “bad guys”). One of my favorite souvenirs was a colorful mask we wore to the fight. 

MUST SEE: CENTRO HISTORICO

• TORRE LATINOAMERICANA 

Completed in 1956 and looking similar to the Empire State Building, the LatinoAmericana tower is an iconic Mexican skyscraper positioned within the historical city center. Plan to stop at the observation deck which offers magnificent views of the world's sixth largest city.

• PALACIO DE BELLAS ARTES

Led by architect Adamo Boari in 1907 this building is a true icon for Mexico City and takes both a nod to neoclassical and art nouveau styles. After a pause in construction due to the Mexican Revolution, architect Federico Mariscal restarted the interior in 1932 with additional Art Deco and pre-hispanic style motifs. Take in the best view (in my opinion) of this building by going into the Sears department store across the street. Go up to the 8th floor and grab a cup of coffee or pastry at Finca Don Porfirio. 

• PALACIO POSTAL

Another gem designed by Architect Adam Boari, this post office is one of a kind. Stop and admire the tiled marble floors and latticed gold staircases. This fully functioning post office will take your breath away with its eclectic mix of architectural styles. 

• GRAN HOTEL CIUDAD DE MÉXICO 

Make sure you stop by the Gran Hotel. The Tiffany style stained glass window is one of the four largest in the world and is a true architectural hidden treasure. If you have some time, head up to the rooftop restaurant overlooking the Plaza de la Constitución or better known as the Zócalo. 

• CATEDRAL METROPOLITANA 

Positioned above a former Aztec sacred site, this enormous Roman Catholic cathedral forms the northern side of the Plaza de la Constitución and has a beautiful blend of architectural styles: Baroque, Gothic, and Neoclassical. 

• PALACIO NACIONAL 

This once residential complex forms the east side of the Plaza de la Constitución.  Stop to check out the famous Diego Rivera’s mural The History of Mexico.  

• CASA DE LOS AZULEJOS 

This house (of tiles), now turned restaurant, was designed with traditional talavera tiles in white and blue. Lots of travelers stop for a photo of the detailed façade, but don't forget to plan for lunch here at the flagship Sanborns. (In my opinion, the interior is even more beautiful!) 

• BARRIO CHINO

Explore Mexico City’s Chinatown. The beautiful street just steps from Palacio de Bellas Artes makes any traveler question exactly what city they are in. The colorful and packed streets are inviting to all.

MISCELLANEOUS 

Here are a few recommendations to take into consideration prior to your trip to (potentially) save on stress in the future!  

• SUNSCREEN

  Depending on if you plan to be outside a lot, Mexico City has a higher elevation. I recommend you bring sunscreen or a hat. 

• BUGS

  If you’re like me, misquotes find me no matter what. I picked up a RAID plug-in device at a local grocery store that I was able to plug into an outlet near my bed to ensure I didn’t get any annoying bites at night! For the day, I also packed a small 1oz bottle of bug spray if we were out in parks etc.

• NOISE

  The sounds of Mexico City are charming unless you're trying to get to sleep. I 100% recommend anyone bring ear plugs if you have a bedroom facing a street or have a lot of glass walls at your hotel or Airbnb. Mexico City is very busy and noisy so ear plugs were essential for a good night's sleep. 

• LANGUAGE

  I recommend you learn some basic phrases of Spanish. We did not come across a lot of places that had English speaking staff. You do not need to be fluent, but you should be able to order your food completely in Spanish or have Google translate ready. 

• CELLULAR DATA

  We found it easiest to just get a local SIM card from TELCEL (there are tons of locations throughout the city and in the airport. However, do some research before leaving, as your phone provider may offer a deal depending on where you are traveling from. 

• CURRENCY

  Have local currency! Cash is king in CDMX. I found getting cash at a local bank before I left on our trip was much easier than attempting to get it at the local Santander Bank. I’ve heard of people running into issues with the ATMs. 

• HUSTLE

  You most likely will be approached by someone trying to sell you something. Don’t be nervous, just say no thank you. Everyone we came across was very respectful. 

• WATER

  Do not drink the water and avoid ice if you can (or ask if they use filtered water). You do not want to experience an upset stomach on your trip! 

• TRAFFIC

  This city has over 20 million people, and sometimes you will feel like they all are on the road at the same time! Leave plenty of time to get from place to place. If you can help it, try to avoid rush hour. 

• SAFETY

  I never felt unsafe, but similar to major cities, be smart when traveling and be aware of your surroundings.

BEYOND THE CITY

• FLOATING GARDENS OF XOCHIMILCO  

Situated south of Mexico City, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an absolute must (touristy) visit. The canals were originally built around the artificial islands called chinampas. Hop on a colorful “boat” called a trajinera and spend your afternoon floating along the canals and stopping from island to island. The classic trajinera ride is guaranteed to be fun. Pack a bag of snacks, a cooler of beer, and a portable speaker and plan for a good time. 

Since Xochimilco is south of Mexico City you will need to plan for transportation. I recommend an Uber, but just remember to plan for unpredictable traffic. 

I also recommend booking an experience through Airbnb or your preferred travel tour company. This activity is so much more enjoyable with a group of people and the trajineras have multiple seats encouraging a party-like atmosphere intended to be experienced with others. I personally just don’t think it would have been as fun with just the two of us sitting on a boat alone, and not really getting any history or facts from a tour guide. (or in our case shots of Mezcal).

EAT & DRINK

• MERCADO ROMA 

Walk through the market's maze-like interiors and explore multiple options for food and drinks. The three-story market also has a rooftop beer garden. This casual setting is perfect after a long day exploring the Roma Norte neighborhood. 

• CHURRERIA EL MORO 

Try the fried dough tossed in sugar, with a side of chocolate. This Mexican staple (Churros con Chocolate)  is a cheap and delicious boost of sugar to keep you moving! There are multiple locations throughout the city. 

• ROSETTA 

This Italian restaurant in the Roma Norte district is an alternative to eating Mexican for every meal. Make a reservation and try the rosemary ice cream. I promise you will not be disappointed. 

• GIN GIN 

A must try for a pre/post dinner drink. The cocktails were delicious and the atmosphere was incredible. I loved the backlit skull wall at the Polanco location, with burning sage, and a retractable roof. It has a vibe. 

Just a few more thoughts… 

• Try a tequila/mezcal tasting. You might be served a side of crickets! Eat if you dare. 

• Eat like a local. At almost every corner of every street you will find a stall or parked bicycle selling anything from hot chocolate and breakfast buns to tacos and a shoe shine.

• Do not drink the tap water. 

• Book restaurants in advance. 

SLEEP

A lot of friends recommended Condesa or Roma Norte because these areas are full of restaurants, cafes and bars. BUT I was working remotely and planned to visit my company’s Mexico City office which is in Polanco. So we picked Polanco since it was a close commute. Polanco is incredibly safe and extremely walkable. Close to grocery stores and high end restaurants and cafes, I loved this neighborhood and would recommend anyone stay here. 

Our Airbnb was PERFECT for remote work and vacation. 

TRANSPORTATION

• BICYCLE

  Mexico City’s public bike share program was amazing. Download the EcoBici  phone app before your trip and set it up before you plan to bicycle. You will need to input your credit card (probably translate some information to English) and access your email to get verification codes, and by doing that all beforehand it will prevent some travel stress.

On Sunday mornings, bike down PASEO DE LA REFORMA. This wide avenue is typically one of the busiest streets, but on Sunday closes down to make way for pedestrians. Plan to take part in a community non-touristy activity. Stop at El Ángel de Independencia Monument for a perfect CDMX photo! 

• UBER

  Extremely affordable and quick, this is the best method for moving throughout the city.

• TAXI

  Unless you have a predetermined and agreed upon amount at the airport. I would recommend Uber throughout the city. 

• WALKING

  You can easily walk within a neighborhood and get a feel for the size and scale of this city.  BUT watch out for the uneven sidewalks. 

• METRO

  I didn’t actually take the metro as I have heard pickpockets are bad, but we really just stuck to walking or Uber.

NEXT TRIP

• Museo Nacional de Antropología

• Casa Luis Barragán 

• Casa Gilardi

• Basílica de Santa Maria de Guadalupe 

• Shrine of Guadalupe

• Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo

• Bibliotheca Vasconcelos

• Museo del Templo Mayor

• Parque España (Avenue Amsterdam) & Explore more of Condesa

• Aztec Pyramids of Teotihuacán (Day Trip)

• La Gruta (Restaurant) 

• Sunset at Plaza Garibaldi

• Pujol (Restaurant)

• La Opera (Restaurant)