The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local
The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Get to Know the Neighborhoods
Mexico City is absolutely massive, spanning over 500 square miles with a population of nearly 9 million. With so many different colonias (neighborhoods), it can be overwhelming trying to figure out where to go and what to see. The key is to get to know the vibe and charm of the various hoods.
One of my favorite areas is trendy Roma Norte. This is ground zero for hip boutiques, coffee shops, and some of the best restaurants in the city. Spend an afternoon wandering the leafy streets, popping into shops like Remigio for beautifully crafted leather goods or Pineda Covalin for whimsical home accessories. Stop for a cortado at Cafetal El Péndulo or one of the many stellar third-wave coffee shops. For people watching, grab a sidewalk table with a mezcal in hand at Taqueria Los Parados.
Nearby Condesa has a similar artsy vibe but is more residential in nature. Parque México is the heart of the neighborhood – locals love coming here to walk dogs, read books, and enjoy live music. Condesa's side streets are lined with colorful Art Deco architecture that begs to be explored on foot. Duck into one of the classic cantinas for a beer and botanas (appetizers) and don't miss La Pagoda, a Chinese-Mexican fusion spot that's been dishing out killer Sichuan fare since the '60s.
Polanco is one of the ritziest parts of town, with high-end shops and luxury hotels galore. But it's not just about materialism here – Polanco also boasts beautiful parks and a thriving cultural scene. Marvel at the collection at the Soumaya Museum, designed by famous architect Fernando Romero. Green space Chapultepec Park marks the western border of Polanco and is home to archaeological sites, a zoo, and several museums.
Coyoacán oozes historic charm as the former stomping grounds of luminaries like Frida Kahlo and Leon Trotsky. Soak up the sunshine as you stroll the lively central plazas surrounded by candy-colored buildings. There are lots of family-friendly attractions here like the Leonora Carrington Museum and the Toy Museum (MUJAM). Grab a treat from the helado carts in Plaza Hidalgo or stop for a cup of hot chocolate and freshly baked churros.
Lastly, no visit is complete without exploring the bustling city center. This is where you'll find the immense Zócalo plaza along with the Metropolitan Cathedral and Templo Mayor ruins. Wander through the maze-like streets and markets near the Alameda Central, sampling street eats like elote and chapulines. Don't miss the splendid Palacio de Bellas Artes and the neighborhood's Art Deco architecture. Though chaotic at times, the Historic Center gives the best glimpse into Mexico City's long and storied past.
The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Must-See Museums and Galleries
What else is in this post?
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Get to Know the Neighborhoods
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Must-See Museums and Galleries
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Stroll Down Avenida Reforma
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Eat Your Way Through the Markets
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Dance the Night Away
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Day Trips from the City
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Tips for Getting Around Town
Mexico City is an art and culture lover's paradise, with world-class museums and galleries scattered across the vast metropolis. Though it would take weeks to properly visit them all, here are some of the absolute must-sees for any visitor.
One museum not to miss is Frida Kahlo’s famed Casa Azul in Coyoacán, where the iconic artist was born, lived, worked, and died. Wander through her vibrant blue home, studio, and lush gardens, getting an intimate glimpse of Frida’s life. See her impressive collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts, personal belongings, and of course her brilliant paintings like "The Two Fridas" and "Self Portrait with Monkeys".
For an immersion into Mexico’s ancient civilizations, head to the renowned National Museum of Anthropology. This massive complex houses the country’s largest collection of pre-Columbian artifacts from cultures like the Aztec, Maya, Olmec and Teotihuacán. Marvel at massive reconstructed ruins and tombs, along with smaller pieces like jewelry, stone carvings and ceramics. Don’t miss the iconic Sun Stone at the end.
Modern art aficionados should pay a visit to the sleek Museo Jumex in Polanco. This private contemporary art museum houses over 3,000 modern works from their impressive Colección Jumex. Standouts include pieces by Andy Warhol, Cy Twombly and Jeff Koons. They also showcase interesting temporary exhibitions by renowned international and Mexican contemporary artists.
Photography buffs will love Fotografía Para Todos (Photography For Everyone) in Roma Norte. Run by acclaimed photographer Pedro Valtierra, this innovative cultural space celebrates photography through workshops, talks and exhibitions. Browse emerging and established photographers in the onsite gallery, then head up to the rooftop café for stunning city views.
The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Stroll Down Avenida Reforma
What else is in this post?
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Get to Know the Neighborhoods
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Must-See Museums and Galleries
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Stroll Down Avenida Reforma
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Eat Your Way Through the Markets
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Dance the Night Away
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Day Trips from the City
- The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Tips for Getting Around Town
No trip to Mexico City is complete without a stroll down the grand Paseo de la Reforma, more commonly called simply Reforma. This iconic boulevard runs diagonally across the heart of the city for about 10 kilometers, connecting the historic center with Chapultepec Park and Polanco.
Lined with monumental statues, Art Deco buildings, and Maya motifs, Reforma beautifully blends old and new Mexico. Take your time as you amble down the wide central pedestrian walkway, admiring the Belle Époque architecture and people watching. On Sundays, the street closes to traffic for the joyous atmosphere of Ciclatón, when cyclists and skaters take over the avenue.
Reforma is anchored on one end by the emerald expanse of Chapultepec Park, a beloved urban oasis for locals. Here you can visit the National Museum of Anthropology, Castillo de Chapultepec castle, and the boating lakes. On the other end lies the sprawling Zócalo main plaza and the relics of Templo Mayor, providing a fascinating glimpse into Mexico's ancient Aztec past.
One of Reforma's most iconic monuments is El Ángel, an immense gilded statue of the Winged Victory atop a tall column. After admiring the monument up close, take the elevator up El Ángel to the observation deck for phenomenal panoramic views. Nearby, don't miss the striking Monumento a la Revolución Mexicana, a towering domed structure dedicated to Mexico's revolution.
Art and culture abounds along Reforma, like the splendid marble Palacio de Bellas Artes and the interactive Papalote Museo del Niño children's museum. Duck inside one of the glamorous old hotels, like Hotel Imperial or the Gran Hotel Ciudad de México, to admire their lavish lobbies.
Reforma seamlessly blends modern skyscrapers with historic architecture. The Torre Mayor remains Latin America's tallest building, while the emblematic Torre Latinoamericana was Mexico City's first skyscraper. Many international banks and businesses are headquartered in the ultramodern high-rises lining Reforma.
The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Eat Your Way Through the Markets
Markets are the beating heart of Mexico City, colorful labyrinths where locals flock to get fresh produce, spices, and some of the city’s most mouthwatering eats. Forget fancy restaurants – the markets offer an authentic glimpse into Mexico’s incredible culinary traditions. Wake up early and head to La Merced, the largest market in the Americas sprawling through the historic center. The dizzying selection of chiles alone is astonishing – ancho, guajillo, árbol, habanero and more, scenting the air with their sharp perfume. Sample local specialties like barbacoa (slow-cooked lamb), carnitas (braised pork), and tacos de guisado (stewed meat tacos) from the bustling food stalls. Don’t miss the fruit juice stands whipping up tantalizing combinations like sandía con piña (watermelon with pineapple).
Nearby in the Lagunilla neighborhood, the lively flea market offers everything from clothing to collectibles along with plenty of tasty street food options. Look for the pozole stands doling out steaming bowls full of hominy, pork and red chile broth. Grab some churros con chocolate (fried dough with thick hot cocoa) for dessert. If you’re craving seafood, head to the Sonora Market in Colonia Roma. This isn’t your typical fish market – here you’ll find ceviche tostadas, shrimp tacos and other Baja-style delicacies. Pull up a stool at one of the mom-and-pop stalls and try the aguachile, raw shrimp bathed in lime juice and chiles.
No market hopping tour is complete without a trip to the Jamaica Flower Market. Since the 1950s, this vibrant bazaar has been the place to purchase beautiful tropical flowers. But don’t pass up the incredible food offerings, from just-pressed juices to steaming tamales filled with mole, beans or Oaxacan-style chorizo. Grab a cup of rich hot chocolate and churros before browsing the endless displays of dahlias, orchids and birds of paradise.
The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Dance the Night Away
After sunset, Mexico City comes alive with an energetic nightlife scene encompassing everything from live music venues to pumping nightclubs. Salsa your way through sultry dance halls, move to cumbia beats in bohemian cantinas, or experience electronic bliss at one of the world’s top clubs.
No night out is complete without sampling the city’s famous dance halls, or salones. For nearly a century, venues like the legendary Salón Los Ángeles have kept Mexican dance traditions alive, from danzón to bolero. Watch in awe as couples glide across the dancefloor doing intricate footwork and spins to tropical rhythms. Salón La Altena offers salsa nights and dance lessons to visitors wanting to join in the fun.
For a uniquely Mexican experience, head to a cantina like El Tenampa in the Historic Center. Since 1925, this famous cantina has kept the beers flowing and the brass bands playing. Grab a cold cerveza and let the infectious rhythms of cumbia move your feet. Cantinas are casual, communal spaces where locals love to unwind over drinks and botanas (appetizers). Expect plenty of rowdy patron participation.
If you prefer rock en español, Vive Latino is one of the best live venues, hosting Mexican bands like Zoé, Café Tacvba, and Molotov. With room for over 15,000 people, the festival-style setup creates an electric atmosphere.
No discussion of Mexico City’s nightlife is complete without mentioning the legendary dance club Patrick Miller. Located in an old mansion in Colonia Roma, this multi-room spot plays infectious cumbias that make it impossible not to dance. Friday nights draw a diverse, eclectic crowd for a euphoric mix of tribal, funk, and Latin beats.
For a world-class techno and house music experience, venture out to the acclaimed club YuYu. The sound system and lighting are astounding, with lasers bouncing off mirrors for a psychedelic backdrop. Acclaimed resident and guest DJs from Mexico and abroad keep the dance floor pumping all night long. Arrive late and stay into the morning hours like a true chilango (Mexico City resident).
The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Day Trips from the City
Mexico City offers nonstop action, but sometimes you need a change of scenery. Luckily, there are tons of phenomenal day trips perfect for when you need a break from the hustle and bustle.
One of the most popular excursions is to the pyramids of Teotihuacán, an important ancient Mesoamerican city about 30 miles from Mexico City. Rise early to beat both the crowds and afternoon heat at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb up the immense Pyramid of the Sun, admiring the expansive valley views at the top. Marvel at the symmetry of the aptly named Pyramid of the Moon and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent. Wander down the Avenue of the Dead, visualizing the sacred processions and rituals that once took place here. Though Teotihuacán can easily take a full day to explore, you'll gain insight into an influential civilization that thrived centuries before the Aztecs.
For a dose of the surreal, visit the colorful town of Tepoztlán with its towering cliff and exotic vibe. Hike up the steep slope to visit the ruins of the temple at the top, catching your breath as you take in the ride valley panorama. The town oozes an artsy New Age spirit, with crystal shops, vegan cafes and yoga studios galore. Grab a fruit licuado (smoothie) at the bustling Sunday market in the main plaza or check out the mural commemorating Tepozteco legends at the Palacio Municipal. With hot springs nearby, Tepoztlán makes for a rejuvenating break from the city.
Art lovers shouldn't miss a visit to Luis Barragán's stunning Cuadra San Cristóbal studios and home, about an hour west of the city center. This space was the famous architect's sanctuary and source of inspiration for his signature vivid colors and clean lines. The natural landscape seamlessly blends with the bold interiors for a completely unique visit. Be sure to peek in the Bubble House, an oval concrete structure with wavy transparent walls. End with a meditative stroll through the gardens, admiring Barragán's harmonious relationship between architecture and nature.
Foodies will relish a day trip to San Pedro Tlaquepaque, an artsy suburb of Guadalajara overflowing with top-notch restaurants and shops. Colombian-inspired La Tequila serves up chimichurri steak and margaritas on a lively patio. At Alcalde, contemporary Mexican cuisine shines through in dishes like huitlacoche ravioli and guajillo chile ribs. Don't miss dessert at Nicole Crêperie, with sweet and savory French crepes prepared to perfection. Fuel up for browsing Tlaquepaque's bountiful ceramic shops and art galleries. This creative Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) encapsulates colonial charm infused with a modern, cosmopolitan vibe.
The Definitive Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Sights, Eats, and Tips from a Local - Tips for Getting Around Town
Navigating a metropolis as massive as Mexico City can seem daunting, but it's easier than you think with a bit of preparation. Transportation here is frequent, far-reaching and cheap. Arm yourself with a good map or app, learn the various options, and you'll be zipping around town like a local in no time.
The metro is hands-down the easiest and most affordable way to get around. With 12 lines and over 140 stations, the extensive subway system connects you to every neighborhood. Fares cost only 5 pesos (about 25 cents USD) per ride. Maps are available at each station and trains run frequently from around 5am to midnight. While it gets crowded during rush hours, the metro is quick, efficient and safe.
When above ground, your best bet is hailing one of the city's ubiquitous taxi cabs. Make sure to only take official sitio taxis with a numbered license plate and logo on the doors. Agree on the fare before getting in, or better yet, ask the driver to use the meter which starts at around 10-15 pesos. Using rideshares like Uber is also reliable, and fares are similar to taxis. Avoid unmarked cabs since they are unregulated and often scam travelers.
Colectivos are shared minibuses running set routes mainly in the outer neighborhoods where the metro doesn't reach. You can catch them on the street and pay a flat fare of 5-6 pesos in cash. While crowded, riding colectivos lets you mingle with locals and see parts of the city you'd otherwise miss. Destinations are listed on the side or windshield.
Metrobus is a network of modern articulated buses running on dedicated lanes separate from traffic. With stations and routes similar to the metro, Metrobus provides speedy transport up and down major arteries like Reforma and Insurgentes. Pay your 6 peso fare at the station entrance before passing through the turnstile.
When sightseeing downtown, walking is often the best way to go. Not only does this let you explore at your own pace, but you'll stumble upon hidden gems not found in any guidebook. Give yourself extra time since distances are greater than they appear on maps. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and use sun protection.
Another economical and eco-friendly transport method is Mexico City's bike share system, Ecobici. There are hundreds of stations around town where you can easily rent a bike with your credit card. The first 45 minutes are free, making Ecobici great for quick short distance jaunts. Bike lanes provide safety, though watch out for careless drivers!