Mexico City for First Timers: The Loudmouth Guide to CDMX

When I think of Mexico City, my mind always wanders to these unbelievable tacos de canasta from a little corner in Condesa that I tried during a food tour a couple of years ago. Or it wanders to the beautiful Day of the Dead decorations and altars adorning Coyoacán in November.  

If I had to crown one city to be my favorite in the world, it would 1,000 times be Mexico City. For me, even just a quick weekend visit to CDMX is always a good idea. I’ve had the privilege to visit five times and I still feel like I have so many more things to experience there. From the people and culture to the world-renowned food and vast history, it’s a huge, chaotically magical city that everyone should visit at least once in their lives. 

This is the Mexico City travel guide I wish I had before visiting Mexico City for the first time. I’m here to help you decide which neighborhood to stay in, what restaurants to make reservations at, and what spots you absolutely can’t miss.

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Mexico City Guide Table of Contents

Mexico City, At a Glance (No Fluff Edition)

Mexico City is really one of the coolest cities in the world. You only need to visit once to fall in love with its great vibes, food and people. It can seem intimidating at first since it’s such a big city, but as always, do not fret because I got you.

Knowing Spanish in Mexico City Helps

It helps a lot to know a few key phrases in Spanish to get around Mexico City. A friendly “¡Buenos días!” goes a long way when entering shops and restaurants. Hello, please, thank you, where is the bathroom, and phrases of the like in Spanish will be really helpful.

However, you’ll find some people that speak English at restaurants, museums or other tourist-frequented places. In general, most people are friendly and willing to help you if you need help with Spanish. 

So besides learning some Spanish phrases, get Google Translate on your phone and you’ll be perfectly fine.

You’ll Need Mexican Pesos

Exchange your money into Mexican pesos at one of the many casas de cambio (currency-exchange houses) you’ll find throughout or at the ATMs outside reputable banks. Some of those reputable banks include BBVA Bancomer, Banorte, Banamex or Santander. 

Just practice the same ATM safety norms as you would in any big city. 

• Stay aware of your surroundings
• Preferably only withdraw money from well-lit ATMs 
• Protect your pin
• Look out for skimmers
• Immediately put your money and cards away before leaving

The Big Question: Is Mexico City Safe?

The question everybody asks as soon as Mexico City enters the conversation. And that’s fair. 

In general, the high-level answer is yes. With a little situational awareness, common sense and some precaution, you can have a perfectly safe trip to Mexico City. Let’s jump into it.

Tipping Culture in Mexico City

The people and places of Mexico City are largely hospitable. And tipping is not only customary, but it’s expected. A standard 15% tip works for good service at most restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels, etc.

This tipping expectation also applies to any tours. In general, a 15%–20% of the tour cost is considered a good tip for tour guides. It will also come down to the length of the tour and the size of the group.

If you receive fantastic service anywhere, 20% or above is considered a very generous tip. And make sure to tip in Mexican pesos. Tipping in any other currency adds a level of complexity for the person you’re tipping since they would have to go exchange it.

Best time to visit Mexico City

This question always comes down to the kind of vibe you’re looking for. The weather in Mexico City is pretty temperate year-round and there are certain holidays/celebrations that draw more people to the city. You’ll want to consider this when deciding when to visit Mexico City. 

Let’s get deeper on the best time to visit Mexico City below.

Staying Connected in Mexico City

The easiest way to ensure you can use your cellphone and stay connected in Mexico City is getting an eSIM or buying an international data pass from your phone carrier. 

Airalo’s an affordable eSIM option that can keep you connected from the moment you land in Mexico. A seven-day 10 GB pass is about $18 USD. They have many day and GB options available. Use code “VALERI95848” to get $3 off your first Airalo eSIM purchase. 

A lot of cellphone carriers offer international data passes for three, five and 10 days or more. Sometimes that ends up being more convenient — but likely not as cheap — because you don’t have to activate any new eSIMs.

Additionally, if you’re with T-Mobile, some of their plans already include Mexico without any additional setup required. I have T-Mobile so I can vouch for having decent access to high-speed data the times I’ve visited Mexico City.

How Many Days in Mexico City Is Actually Enough?

It’s no secret that Mexico City is huge. I mean really, really huge. There are endless places to see, experiences to live and food to indulge in. You’ll be wondering how many days in Mexico City is enough to really appreciate it. And I’m here to help you figure it out without complications. 

If You Have 3 Days

If you have three days in Mexico City, you’ll need to prioritize a couple of big hitters to make the best out of your time. It’s enough to fall in love, but you don’t get to see everything. 

So let me structure it for you with a balance of iconic historic landmarks, out-of-this-world food and neighborhood wandering!

Day 1: Centro Histórico & Iconic Sights
Get your bearings in the heart of the city in the Centro Histórico. There are a lot of important sights in the historic center area that you can knock out in half a day.  

• Zócalo & Metropolitan Cathedral
• Palacio de Bellas Artes
• Casa de los Azulejos
• Templo Mayor (if you love history)

There are a lot of street food options near the historic center where you can grab lunch before heading to Chapultepec Park in the afternoon. In the park, you can:

• Visit Chapultepec Castle (a must!)
• Walk through the park
• Get sunset drinks in Roma or Condesa

Why this works: You knock out the heavy hitters first and understand the city’s scale.

Day 2: Exploring CDMX Neighborhoods & Museums
Spend day two getting to know the real vibes of Mexico City’s neighborhoods. Kick it off early to take full advantage of your day.  

Morning:

• Coffee crawl in Roma Norte
• Browse local boutiques
• Walk tree-lined streets in Condesa

Midday:

• Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacán
• Explore the colorful plaza and markets
• Eat delicious seafood at Mi Compa Chava

Evening:

• Lucha libre (if you want chaotic fun)
• Or a lovely dinner in Roma

Why this works: You see how locals actually live — not just the watered-down Instagram version.

Day 3: Food + One Big Experience
This is a choose-your-own-adventure type of day with a few big-hitter options to pick from. 

Option 1: Teotihuacán day trip
Teotihuacán is an important archaeological site about 1 hour outside of Mexico City. It’s home to the famed and wondrous Pyramid of the Sun. You can’t climb it anymore, but you can admire its grandiose stature and the rest of the sprawling site.

Option 2: Xochimilco boats with Mexican music, snacks and micheladas)
Riding a trajinera (traditional flat-bottomed boats) in Xochimilco is a Mexico City must. The party vibes, the music, the idea that you’re riding through historical canals — it’s such a fun experience you must experience at least once in your life.   

Option 3: Museum deep dive (Anthropology Museum is world-class)
Listen, there’s no museum in the world like the National Anthropology Museum in Mexico City. The Soumaya art museum? Chef’s kiss. Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul? Iconic. You truly have endless museum choices here. So start the end of your three days in Mexico with a world-class museum deep dive.  

Pick a museum. Then, end your trip properly with:

• A street tacos crawl
• A food tour (highly recommend for first-time visitors)
• Rooftop drinks overlooking the city

Mexico City’s Eat Like A Local food tour changed my life. I always recommend their tours to anyone traveling to CDMX. I love what they stand for, the food is incredible and they’re simply so worth it. Read my full food tour review here. 

Why this works: You’ll experience the best of Mexico City food AND culture all in one day.

Who 3 Days in Mexico City Is Perfect For

A quick weekend getaway or a first-time escape to Mexico City is always an absolute yes in my book. And three days is a perfect starting point — it’s definitely not enough to experience everything CDMX has to offer, but it’s enough to give you a feel of the land. 

Check out my full three-day Mexico City itinerary complete with food recommendations, day-by-day breakdowns and more when you’re ready to plan your own CDMX itinerary.

If You Have 4–5 Days

If you have a bit more time in Mexico City, you can venture out to even more of the top sights at a more calm pace.

Day 4: Markets, Folklorico & Fancy Drinks

Morning 

• Get a guava roll from Panadería Rosetta. 
• Shop at Bazar Resiliente (Saturdays and Sundays; check their Instagram for dates).

Midday

• Use the extra time to make sure you hit both Chapultepec Castle AND the Museum of Anthropology (go to whichever one you haven’t gone to yet). 
• Walk around Bosque de Chapultepec.

Evening

• Watch a folklorico show at Palacio de Bellas Artes (check the schedules ahead of time).
• Get dinner and drinks at one of the hotspots at Pasaje El Parían in Roma Norte.

Why this works: You’ll get the perfect balance of deep culture and that vibey Roma Norte life. 

Day 5: Underrated Museums & Exploring Coyoacán

Start out with a traditional Mexican breakfast at El Cardenal (several locations throughout the city; go to the one nearest your hotel). Then, head to Coyoacán as early as possible. 

Alternatively, you can have breakfast at Mercado de Coyocán for even more traditional dishes. 

Because you have some extra time, you get to visit Anacahualli Museum in Southwest Mexico City. This astounding modern-looking pyramid made of black volcanic rock is home to Diego Rivera’s personal collection of pre-Colombian Mesoamerican artifacts. 

This is considered Diego Rivera’s last greatest project and it’s dedicated to Mexican identity and spirituality. The temple-like museum isn’t necessarily as well-known as the Frida Kahlo Museum, but it’s a mythical wonder you must visit.

Why this works: You step out of the well-traveled path and see the more underrated side of CDMX.

If You Have a Week

Now, if you’re fortunate enough to have the time to spend a whole week in Mexico City, trust that you won’t run out of things to see, eat and do.

Use the above frameworks and options to mix and match to do all of it. Plus, you’ll likely have time to do one or two day trips. And of course I have a few Mexico City day trip ideas for you below.

Where to Stay in Mexico City (Without Choosing Wrong)

Where you choose to stay in Mexico City really spells out the vibe of your trip. And with a city so big, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed over descriptions on descriptions about the different Mexico City neighborhoods. 

Well, take it from someone who’s been to Mexico City five times — these are your best options. These neighborhoods are the places I’ve either stayed in or would personally choose to stay in based on location, safety and what each area has to offer.

Roma Norte: Hipstery but Make It Tree-Lined & Beautiful

Best-rated hotel in Roma Norte, Mexico City: Colima 71
Best mid-range boutique hotel in Roma Norte, Mexico City: NaNa Vida
My dream stay hotel in Roma Norte, Mexico City: La Valise
Most-recommended locally owned apartments in Roma Norte: The Local Way
Top luxury stay in Roma Norte: Ignacia Guest House 

Roma Norte is a trendy neighborhood west of the historic center of Mexico City that is known for its neo-classical and art-nouveau style buildings, a delicious culinary scene, art galleries, hip bars and more. It’s also my top pick for where to stay in Mexico City. 

You’ll find a lot of aesthetic cafés and restaurants, vintage thrift shops and fancy boutiques, and lovely accommodation options. It’s a tree-lined, walkable neighborhood where you can admire Porfirian-era buildings as you stroll toward the most delicious guava roll from Panadería Rosetta.

This neighborhood is also a great choice for travelers looking to enjoy the lively Mexico City nightlife while staying in a safe area. Head to renowned classics like Licorería Limantour, Hanky Panky or Fifty Mils for good vibes and tasty cocktails. 

Condesa: Tree-Lined & Bougie

Mid-range boutique hotel in Condesa, Mexico City: Casa Nuevo León
My top choice for mid-range boutique hotel in Condesa: AR 218 Hotel

Condesa and Roma are two neighborhoods that basically go hand in hand as they’re right next to each other. Condesa is only slightly more upscale than Roma, and it’s just as safe, walkable and full of life. 

Staying in Condesa’s a no-brainer if you’re looking for a neighborhood that’s close enough to places like the Angel of Independence, Chapultepec Castle, the National Anthropology Museum and more. It’s my top-second choice of places to stay when visiting Mexico City. 

Plus, you can get a wonderful, traditional breakfast or pastries at Maque, sip on a coffee at Boicot Café, shop for books at El Péndulo, walk through the urban green spaces on Avenida Amsterdam or Parque Mexico in Condesa. 

Condesa is a perfect choice for Mexico City first timers, families or groups because of its walkability, bounty of restaurants and cafés, and proximity to the top sights in Mexico City. It’s one of the best neighborhoods in Mexico City for travelers.

Polanco: Fancy Pants CDMX

Affordable-to-mid-range apartments in Polanco, Mexico City: ULIV Park Polanco
Top-rated luxury boutique hotel in Polanco, Mexico City: Campos Polanco

Think of Polanco as Condesa and Roma’s most bougie sister. Polanco’s a beautiful, calmer — and swankier — neighborhood located northwest of the Roma neighborhood. It’s home to one of my favorite taco spots, Siembra Taquería, and one of my favorite pizza spots, Trattoria Grata, in Mexico City. I’ve stayed in Polanco two times out of the five I’ve been to Mexico City. 

In this affluent area, you’ll find luxury hotels, upscale boutiques and high-end dining (we’re talkin’ two-Michelin-stars worth!) along with green spaces and convenient proximity to Chapultepec Park.

It should come at no surprise that this comes with the price tag to match. But it makes up for that by being a safe, walkable neighborhood to stay in when visiting Mexico City. And if you’re not trying to shop ‘til you drop at Antara Fashion Mall or down Avenida Presidente Masaryk, Polanco’s also home to free art museums like Soumaya and Jumex that are so worth the visit.

Centro Histórico: Chaotic in a Good Way

Mid-range stay in historic center Mexico City: City Centro by Marriott Ciudad de Mexico

Staying in Mexico City’s Centro Histórico is a good option for people who are used to crowds that can get a little bit chaotic. I personally wouldn’t recommend it for Mexico City first-timers, and I wouldn’t stay in this area. But I feel the need to include it because it’d be odd to not speak about it in a post that’s all about Mexico City.  

El Centro Histórico puts you right in the middle of the action with access to major sights like el Zócalo, Templo Mayor, Palacio de Bellas Artes, la Casa de los Azulejos and more. 

The street food in the historic center is a yes, yes, yes. Especially the esquites and elotes. Ahhh, I’m dreaming about them now.  

If you decide to stay in this area, stick to well-lit streets with heavy traffic — it’s easy to veer off into side streets that may not be as tourist-friendly. And keep your eye on any valuables you may be carrying as the crowds can get a little heavy and that’s when the pickpockets come out.

Coyoacán: Artsy & Slower

My pick for top boutique hotel in Coyoacán: H21 Hotel Boutique
High-rated boutique hotel in Coyoacán: Casa Tuna

Coyoacán is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Mexico City and the former home of Frida Kahlo. It’s about 30 minutes away from the city’s historic center by car, and it’s a completely different vibe from other neighborhoods.

There are iconic museums to explore in this area, such as Casa Azul and the Trotsky Museum, and eminent traditional markets where you can try authentic Mexican food and buy artisan goods. Plus, there are markets on the weekends at Jardín del Arte Allende and lovely parks like Plaza Jardín Hidalgo and Jardín Centenario.

Stay in Coyoacán if you want a slower-paced trip through cobblestone streets filled with culture and history. It’s a good option for travelers who’ve been to Mexico City at least once before and want to venture out farther than the bustling city energy.

Getting Around Mexico City Without Crying

Seriously, do not be intimidated by how to get around Mexico City. It’s simple and approachable if you stick to a couple of options. My go-to when traveling in Mexico City is Uber — it’s cheap and reliable. The second choice would be walking and third is the Mexico City metro.   

Uber Is Your Best Friend

Basically, Uber’s the easiest way to get around Mexico City. Rides are generally accessible in price when compared to other big cities like Los Angeles. Even though there’s been some protests and issues between taxi drivers and Uber in Mexico in recent history, Uber’s still my go-to. 

It’s cheap, reliable and safer in my opinion because you can track the whole ride, confirm the license plates/driver and know you won’t get scammed on the ride price.  

The Mexico City Metro (Doable, With Caveats)

When I did Eat Like A Local’s food tour last year, we got around on the metro as we hopped from one mercado to the next — and it was awesome! I learned it’s a cheap, fast and reliable way to get around Mexico City.

I felt fairly safe riding the metro during the tour, but I recommend keeping a couple of things in mind when using the metro in Mexico City. 

It gets CROWDED. Avoid rush hour (generally 7:30–9:30 a.m. and 5–8 p.m.) because the crowds can get really chaotic with everybody trying to get on the train cars. The metro has a women-and-children-only section, and in general, it’s pretty safe and reliable. But if you get to the platform and it’s super crowded, I recommend leaving and taking Uber instead. 

Other times to avoid the metro include:

• During big events like the Day of Independence and Day of the Dead celebrations
• During rainy weather where everybody will be trying to get off the streets

Getting Around on Foot (More Than You’d Think)

Mexico City has a huge walking culture and I’d consider walking a choice second only to Ubers. If you’re staying in Roma, Condesa or Polanco, walking to restaurants, cafés, boutiques, etc. is a perfect way to experience the local vibe. 

Another great way to get to know Mexico City is by joining a free walking tour led by locals. Walking tours are an ideal way to orient yourself in a new city — especially if it’s led by the people living in it. Estación México is a local company that offers a few different Mexico City walking tour routes, including Centro Histórico and Condesa/Roma routes.  

Getting From the Mexico City Airport to Your Hotel

You have a few options to get to your accommodation from the Mexico City airport: 

• Uber
• Private transfer
• Taxi
• Bus

UBER
Uber is my tried-and-true option for getting out of the Mexico City airport. There are several spots they could pick you up there, but it’s generally outside the arrivals door. Just double check the pickup location on the app when you request the ride at the airport.  

As far as approximate costs, depending on how far you’re going, an Uber from the Mexico City airport to Roma, Condesa or Polanco will cost anywhere between $350–500 MXN (approx. $20–30 USD). 

PRIVATE TRANSFER
A private transfer from the airport to your accommodation is a super convenient move for any trip. It helps your trip start out smoothly and calmly as you’re driven by someone who knows the road. It’s the most expensive option, but if you have the budget for convenience, I recommend it.

Door-to-door private transfers from the Mexico City airport can cost anywhere from $40 to $150 USD. 

TAXI
When getting around Mexico City, I mostly exclusively use Ubers and wouldn’t recommend taxis as your first option. But if you’re going to use a taxi anywhere in Mexico City, the airport’s the place to do it. 

Book your taxi at one of the official kiosks at arrivals to know you’re getting an upfront price and that it’s a certified car and driver for safety purposes.

Taxis to Roma or Condesa from the airport cost around $400–500 MXN (up to $30 USD).

BUS
Mexico City’s Metrobus is a modern public transit with many routes that include the tourist areas. A single trip costs around $30 MXN (approx. $2 USD) — so it’s a cheap way to get from the airport to areas like Centro Histórico.

However, keep in mind this is the slowest option and there’ll be some walking involved as it’s not a direct transfer to your hotel.

The Real Reason You’re Coming: THE FOOD

I could write a never-ending story about the food in Mexico City. It’s one of my favorite things about this special metropolis if I’m being honest. You and your stomach will surely fall in love with the world-renowned Mexico City cuisine.

You’ll hear people say “you absolutely have to go here,” and others “that place is for gringos,” of the same spot. But what it comes down to for me is that you have to try something yourself before letting anyone stop you from getting tacos at a spot deemed “too gringo.” It’s all about being able to form your own opinion about it.

What to Eat in Mexico City

These are some of my personal favorite food spots in Mexico City:

• Mi Compa Chava: A casual, and very popular, seafood eatery with scrumptious costra de camarón tacos, ceviches and aguachiles, and more. Go early because it gets super packed. I prefer the Coyoacán location.
• Contramar: A Mexico City staple that some people call overrated. I’ve been once and I really liked it. The tuna tostada’s yummy af. 
• Siembra Taquería: Sure, they’re elevated tacos. But they’re good as hell. The gaona con queso taco is my absolute favorite. 
• Jenni’s Quesadillas: Infamous and delicious. Worth the hype in my personal opinion.
• Maque: A lovely little café where you can get traditional breakfast like chilaquiles and freshly baked pastries. 
• Panadería Rosetta: The guava roll that’s made its way from the internet machine waves around the world and back — worth the hype! All of the pastries here are good, but don’t do the sit-down menu.  
• El Cardenal: Traditional plates with reliable flavor and multiple locations across the city. 
• Trattoria Grata: I dream of their truffle pizza and shrimp aglio e olio pasta on a daily basis. 
• Churrería El Moro: A Mexico City classic. You gotta try their delicious churros at least once in your life. 

How to Not Get Food Poisoning

Listen, I get how this is a genuine concern for travelers. If you’re anxious about street food making you sick, play it this way: if the street vendor’s busy, it means people approve and you’ll likely be fine.

To play it safe:

• Avoid drinking tap water or mystery-pitcher water (most restaurants will serve you bottled water). 
• Carry hand sanitizer.
• Don’t swallow the tap water when brushing your teeth or in the shower (or brush your teeth with bottled water).
• Only eat freshly made food from vendors that are busy (long lines are a good tell).

Make sure to have some anti-diarrheal or indigestion OTC meds and electrolyte drinks on hand just in case. You can get them at Farmacias Guadalajara, Farmacias Similares or Farmacias del Ahorro.

Street Food vs. Restaurants

This foodie wonderland has many sides to it; no pun intended. On one end, we have the modern-cuisine type of restaurants where reservations are a must, such as Pujol, Máximo and Quintonil.

And on the other end, we have esquites from street vendors on La Alameda Central or the best tacos de canasta from a random corner in Condesa. Or the quesadillas from Jenni’s Quesadillas and the tortas de chilaquiles that everyone lines up for. The list can go on and on. 

You gotta get in on both sides of the spectrum to really experience what Mexico City’s food scene has to offer.

Markets You Cannot Skip

The best way to enjoy Mexico City markets as a tourist is by hiring a guide or booking a tour. This is simply because the tour guides know exactly how to navigate these sprawling markets with endless stalls of goodness. 

A tour will ensure you don’t end up in places you shouldn’t be and will make sure you try the best food each market can offer. And that’s why I’ll forever rave about Eat Like Local’s Mexico City food tours. 

Their Mexican Food 101 tour takes you on a foodie adventure through prominent Mexico City markets like Mercado La Merced and Mercado Jamaica where you’ll try traditional sweet bread, so many tacos, quesadillas, pambazos, and so much more. Their tours are so worth it, and you can read my full review of them here.  

Where to Spend Your Time in Mexico City

Mexico City is simply iconic, and as such, you’ll want to narrow down where you actually spend your time and money. The city has so much to offer foodies, adventurers, history-lovers and more. 

Cultural Heavy Hitters

Mexico City has a lot of absolute musts, but I’ll break down the things you really cannot miss:

• Chapultepec Castle: It’s one of my favorite places to visit because of the castle’s historical and cultural significance, the incomparable views and the awe-inspiring murals and art you can enjoy there.
• National Museum of Anthropology: One of my favorite museums in the world. This place is huge and the sheer amount of archaeological artifacts is simply incredible. Seeing every native region of Mexico represented in this sprawling museum is super cool.
• El Zócalo: The main square in Mexico City’s historic center where people gather for Independence Day celebrations, swearing-in of presidents, modern Mexican ceremonies and more. 
• Monumento a la Revolución: Located in Plaza de la República near the historic center, this 220-feet-tall monument is dedicated to the Mexican Revolution (1910–1920). There’s an exhibition space, gallery and a museum of the Mexican Revolution underneath it.
• Palacio de Bellas Artes: An important cultural center where you can admire beautiful murals by Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco and David Alfaro Siqueiros; visit the Palacio de Bellas Artes museum; attend traditional folklórico shows; and see a play or an opera.
• Angel de la Independencia: This monument dedicated to Mexico’s independence can be found in the iconic Paseo de la Reforma — one of the most important avenues in the city. You’ll likely drive by it many times during your time in Mexico City.  
• Casa Azul (Frida Kahlo Museum): This is the Coyoacán home where Frida Kahlo was born and raised in, then later lived in with Diego Rivera. It’s a lovely museum with a collection of her artwork, memorabilia, her clothes, personal items and more. 

Neighborhood Wanders

Walking around a new city to get to know the real vibes is one of my favorite experiences during all of my trips. And wandering the neighborhoods of Mexico City is usually a good idea.

In Condesa, you should walk the tree-lined streets of Avenida México around Parque Mexico and up to Avenida Amsterdam. There are so many spots you could check out in this area, including Mendl Delicatessen, Odette, Quentin Café, Tortas Al Fuego, Tacos Atarantados, and more!

Or back in the historic center, you can walk from Palacio de Bellas Artes (after getting an elote here, of course) to la Casa de los Azulejos (for aesthetic insta shots) or Torre Latinoamericana (and get panoramic views of CDMX from approx. 600 feet high). Then, walk to el Zócalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and el Templo Mayor. 

I must also reiterate that a free walking tour is an ideal way to get the lay of the land with someone that knows the area. 

Museums That Don’t Suck

I won’t go around in circles on this one. These are the Mexico City museums you cannot miss:

• National Museum of Anthropology
• National History Museum at Chapultepec Castle
• Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul)
• Museo Tamayo (contemporary art museum)
• Museo Soumaya
• Museo Anahuacalli

Experiences Worth Booking

The soul of Mexico City will have you wanting to come back again and again. It’s its food, people, culture and more. And there are plenty of experiences to choose from so you can get to know each of those aspects of Mexico City’s soul.

COOKING CLASSES
Whether it’s learning about the deep culinary history of Mexico City or learning how to make the ultimate staples of Mexican food, salsas and corn tortillas, a cooking class is an experience you have to do at least once. 

You get to munch on your freshly made goodies and take home newly learned skills and ever-lasting memories. 

Highly rated cooking classes in Mexico City: Casa Jacaranda

LUCHA LIBRE
Lucha libre in Mexico City is absolutely irreverent fun you cannot miss. Experiencing the electric atmosphere that fills Arena México during this cultural experience that dates back to the 20th century is a Mexico City must-do. 

It’s an over-the-top, full-on drama that’s choreographed to display the wrestlers’ iconic skills — all complete with storylines. Prepare to marvel at older ladies passionately yelling obscenities at the wrestlers. It’s kind of amazing to watch and all part of the experience.

There are lucha libre events at Arena México on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. I recommend getting tickets in advance because they often sell out (especially for Friday shows). Tickets are approximately $200–500 MXN (about $10–40 USD).     

CDMX LUCHA LIBRE TIP: Do a door-to-door Uber to Arena Mexico. The venue’s in the Doctores neighborhood and you really should stick to the immediate vicinity. I didn’t feel unsafe, but you definitely shouldn’t wander into random streets.

FOOD TOUR 
A Mexico City food tour lets you get straight to the best of the best — the best tacos, street food, markets and more. Because the tours are often led by locals — at least the best ones are — you get to tap into a little bit of the locals’ lives and spots they love. And trust me, they really know best. 

And yes, I’m bringing up Eat Like A Local’s food tours yet again. On Eat Like A Local’s Mexican Food 101 tour I ate some of the most delicious tacos de canasta I’ve ever had; tried green chorizo for the first time and was blown away; and got to explore the Jamaica and La Merced markets in ways I couldn’t have on my own.

It’s 10/10 one of the best things to do in Mexico City. Read my full review of their food tour for more details, then, book online in advance.

Easy Day Trips From Mexico City

If you’ll be in Mexico City for at least five days, you should explore the possibility of taking a day trip. 

Teotihuacán

Teotihuacán is a large archaeological site located about an hour northeast of Mexico City that’s home to some of the most important pyramids in all of México — the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. 

The pyramids and the whole site overall are truly stunning. I have really fond memories of climbing the massive Pyramid of the Sun with my sister about 15 years ago. And I would love to come back and visit now.  

One of the most-recommended budget-friendly ways to get to Teotihuacán from Mexico City is by public bus for about $106 MXN round trip. The last bus back to the city leaves from the front entrance at 8 p.m. Entrance to the archaeological site costs $70 MXN per person. 

Alternatively, and if you have the budget, there are also many tours available for booking through Airbnb or even your hotel. This would maximize comfortability since you’d mainly focus on enjoying the journey while guides take care of everything else. 

Xochimilco

Xochimilco is a system of canals in southern Mexico City where you can rent a trajinera (flat-bottomed boats that go back to pre-colonial times) for a maximum of $600 MXN per hour for a fun time. It’s a bit of a divisive topic as some people love Xochimilco and others knock it down as a tourist trap or booze cruise.

And as I always say, how can you know if you’d like or dislike something if you don’t first experience it firsthand? Personally, Xochimilco is a Mexico City experience you have to do at least once in your life. Come with no expectations and an open mind — it’s usually best enjoyed in a bigger group. 

The water transport system dates back to the Aztec empire. Nowadays, Xochimilco is a place with festive vibes where people celebrate birthdays and gatherings atop a boat that kinda resembles a gondola. All this while floating by mariachi bands, food vendors and artisan vendors.  

Depending on where you’re staying, Xochimilco is about 45 min.–1 hr. by Uber/car. Plan at least for a 2-hour boat ride to see the main tourist canal area in Xochimilco. Boat rides start out as early as 9 a.m., and everything starts to wrap up at 6 p.m. It’s much livelier on the weekend than during the week — keep that in mind when planning your day trip to Xochimilco.  

There are also longer trajinera trips and different experiences available, including trips to the Xochimilco ecological park, visits to the real Isla de las Muñecas, and even Xochimilco sunrise boat rides that include a farm-to-market food tour.

XOCHIMILCO TIPS

• Request for your Uber to drop you off at “Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas” so they’ll take you to the main canal area.
• It’s cheaper to buy snacks and drinks at the convenience stores outside the piers — load up before boarding. 
• The maximum hourly rate for Xochimilco boats is $600 Mexican pesos PER BOAT (the max. is set by the government). Don’t let shady vendors try to charge you per person. 

Grutas de Tolantongo

A day trip to Grutas de Tolantongo will be a long day, but it will be worth it.

Grutas de Tolantongo is a natural thermal water park about 125 miles from Mexico City in the state of Hidalgo with hot springs, a river, caves, tunnels, waterfalls, ziplining and even a camping site.

The journey there takes about three hours from Mexico City and it costs $230 MXN per person (approx. $13 USD) to enter. The caves, tunnels, waterfalls and swimming pools are open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. 

TIPS TO ENJOY TOLANTONGO

• Bring water shoes
• Bring pesos (not all places take card)
• Book a guided tour for the most convenient experience 
• Put your phone and camera in a waterproof bag
• Some of the paths aren’t all that accessible for people with disabilities or older people — and there are a lot of stairs to climb
• Expect it to be busiest on the weekend      

Mexico City Budget Reality Check

Now that you’re on the budget section of your Mexico City trip planning, let’s talk affordability and how much you actually need to enjoy it. Mexico City is not as cheap as it used to be, that’s for sure. And it’s thanks to the recent increase in digital nomads moving to Mexico in an effort to live cheaply. 

But even then, visiting Mexico City remains fairly affordable unless you’re traveling during high-traffic seasons (like Día de Muertos). For the most part, museum admissions, street food and transportation remain relatively accessible even for budget travelers. And of course, there’s a bougie side you can also enjoy if that’s more your vibe.  

Typical Daily Costs

• Budget traveler: About $850–1,000 MXN per day per person (approx $45–65 USD); you’re staying at Airbnbs, hostels or local rentals and mostly eating at fondas (small, family-owned restaurants). 
• Mid-range: Approx. $2,000–2,500 MXN per day per person (about $116–145 USD); you’re staying in Condesa or Roma Norte (3–4 star hotels) or one of the mid-range options provided; taking mostly Ubers.
• Bougie: $3,000–5,000 MXN (approx. $175–300 USD); you’re staying at luxury or boutique hotels or vacation rentals in Polanco; high-dining like Pujol or Quintonil; and definitely only Uber-ing.

Cash vs. Credit Cards in Mexico City

Nowadays, most places in Mexico City accept major credit cards, including restaurants, museums and even some vendors markets. You’ll still need to pay in cash for street vendors. And sometimes, I prefer to pay for small convenience store purchases with cash (like my favorite Sabritas).

Typically, tips would also be paid in cash (unless it’s at a restaurant where you’re paying with a card and you can leave the tip that way too).    

If you’re going to get cash, I’d recommend withdrawing it from an ATM. For a one-week trip, I’d get $200 USD (approx. $3,440 MXN) in cash. And only carry the cash you’ll need for the day.

Where You’ll Overspend

Restaurants and shops in more affluent areas like Polanco, and even some spots in Roma Norte and Condesa, are a little more expensive than you’d imagine. There are high-end dining spots where you can expect to pay prices mirroring what you’d pay in, say, Los Angeles. 

Don’t go to Mexico City thinking everything is cheap because it’s not. 

Where I’d say you’ll likely overspend is at markets like Filomena Market or Bazar Resiliente in Roma where you can shop for jewelry, clothes, bags, wallets, plants and so much more from local entrepreneurs and vendors.

Maybe that’s just where I will DEFINITELY overspend because I’m a sucker for cute jewelry from women-owned businesses. 

Where You Can Save

Although museum admission fees are generally affordable in Mexico City, you can save some money by visiting on Sundays when museums are free. Just remember Sundays are also when CDMX families visit museums. 

The time of year you visit Mexico City can also help you save some money. Hotel and flight prices can be lower for travel during the low seasons of May–June or September–November. But avoid the Mexican independence and Day of the Dead celebrations because hotel prices get a little wild during those dates. 

There are so many local fondas, which are usually small, family-owned restaurants, where you can enjoy a delicious and affordable meal. Choose one that looks busy and has a high turnover because it likely means the food is bomb.   

Lastly, public transportation is pretty cheap in Mexico City with metro rides being around $10 MXN ($0.50 USD). Using that instead of Ubers will help you save a few bucks.

Let’s Talk Safety (Like Adults)

As I briefly mentioned earlier, Mexico City is like most big cities around the world — a little common sense and situational awareness will likely keep you safe. I’ve been to Mexico City five times, and I’ve never felt unsafe. I approach it like I would any big city and I keep my wits about me at all times. 

However, Mexico’s been in the news lately due to a recent takedown of a big cartel leader by the Mexican armed forces. And that means, the question of whether traveling to Mexico is safe is louder than ever. 

Let me start by reassuring you of Mexico’s vast size as a country. The recent incident happened in the southern Mexican state of Jalisco — about 550 kilometers from Mexico City. And while it would be irresponsible to pretend Mexico is the safest country in the world, Mexico City itself remains relatively safe (safer even than some places in the U.S.).

Check the latest travel advisories and safety information from the U.S. State Dept. before you travel. And always listen to your gut to be as safe a traveler as you can be. 

Here are some additional Mexico City safety tips:

Situational Awareness Is King

Stay aware of your surroundings and your belongings at all times while traveling in Mexico City. As you’re participating in the city’s prominent walking culture, avoid looking lost and always stay on well-lit, busy streets. 

You shouldn’t flash your fancy valuables while walking around — especially around crowds. The pickpockets come out in heavily crowded areas like the CDMX historic center or metro. 

Also, don’t carry everything while you’re exploring: leave one credit card and your passport secured in your accommodation. Don’t carry all of your cash with you — only carry what you need for the day.

Avoid protests or demonstrations. These are very common in CDMX (I love this btw), but as a traveler, you likely don’t have all the context and they can get chaotic from one moment to the next.

Common Mexico City Scams to Avoid

Always review your restaurant bill item by item to ensure no extras or doubles were added. And look at your credit card charges afterward to check that they charged you correctly. 

Practice ATM safety and check for skimmers. It’s better to use ATMs inside banks or enclosed vestibules rather than standalone outdoor machines. 

Mexico City Transportation Safety

I stick to Ubers while traveling in Mexico City. If you must take a taxi, only take certified taxis or have the hotel request the taxi. Definitely don’t hail a random taxi from the street. One of the most common Mexico City scams is inflated taxi prices or taxi meters that overcharge you. 

Plus, some taxi drivers will charge you a higher price for any given ride simply because you look like a tourist. So just play it safe by sticking to Uber.

Neighborhood Safety: Where to Go and What to Avoid

Stick to the popular neighborhoods, including for sightseeing and your accommodation. And even then, all it takes is walking into the wrong street or neighborhood. For example, certain streets in el centro histórico are unsafe at night. Stick to visiting the historic center during the day.

Common Mexico City Rookie Mistakes

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, Mexico City isn’t a trip you just wing. A little planning goes a long way here because the city already has so much to offer. But you wanna make sure to avoid these Mexico City travel mistakes. 

Overplanning

Don’t try to cram every single Mexico City hotspot into one day — you gotta factor in traffic and transportation time, the distance between things, and how much time you want to dedicate to each spot. 

And there are spots that absolutely deserve the time. You don’t wanna rush through Chapultepec Castle or the Museum of Anthropology because you’d miss so many gems! 

Stick to one main area for the day. For example, dedicate at least half a day to the Chapultepec Park area — there are plenty of museums and cultural areas you’ll for sure want to experience.

Museums like the National Museum of Anthropology, Soumaya Museum and Chapultepec Castle all realistically take at least two hours to really take everything in. 

If you plan on going to Coyoacán, also dedicate at least one full day to really enjoy the Frida Kahlo Museum, Coyoacán market, the flea and art markets if you’re there on a weekend, and more.

Staying in the Wrong Area

You don’t wanna be too far from the spots you absolutely want to see. And you also don’t want to spend the majority of your trip in an Uber. So deciding where to stay in Mexico City is really important. 

Once you settle on your accommodations, pop the address into Google Maps to estimate travel time between it and your must-visit Mexico City spots. And then, add about 10–15 extra minutes for traffic to play it safe. 

If there are restaurants you absolutely want to include in your trip, staying in the neighborhood where those are located is a good idea. Like if you wanna start your day with a guava roll from Panadería Rosetta, then you’d stay in Roma Norte or Condesa for freshly baked cookies from Odette.

Also, if you’re staying in the historic center area, make sure to not wander off to random streets because you might accidentally walk into a seedier area and not even realize it.

Underestimating the Mexico City Altitude

Mexico City is one of the highest major capitals of the world, sitting at 7,350 feet above sea level. So if you’re coming from sea level or a lower elevation, give your body a day or two to adjust.. 

You could experience dizziness, fatigue or even shortness of breath because of the difference in oxygen levels. But just make sure to stay hydrated and let your body get used to the altitude during the first couple of days. 

Seasonal Mexico City — When to Go

As I hinted at above, the best time to visit Mexico City comes down to what trip vibe you’re looking for. Most people, me included, think there’s no wrong time to visit Mexico City — there’s always something to do with so many museums, cultural events, cafés, etc. to choose from.

I’m here to help you narrow it down to the perfect time to visit for you. 

Best Months to Visit Mexico City

My top recommendation is to visit Mexico City during spring. The beautiful purple jacarandas are in bloom around March–April with gorgeous spring weather. 

Generally, Mexico City sees highs in the low 80s and lows in the low 50s during March and April — which is basically great weather for sightseeing. In truth, anywhere from March to May is a really popular time to visit because you can expect warm, sunny days. 

Another great time to visit Mexico City is during Semana Santa, holy week, because everyone leaves the city for the break so you might experience less crowds.

Rainy-Season Reality

June–September is the rainy season and you can expect heavy rains in the afternoons. 

You’ll want to keep an eye on the weather as your trip approaches because you don’t want to be caught in a downpour — and trust me, they’re downpours — without an umbrella or proper shoes. Some areas of Mexico City are prone to flooding so avoid wearing your favorite white sneakers if there’s a chance of rain in the forecast. 

It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit during these months, it just means you gotta be prepared. This type of weather is perfect for wandering the museums or delighting in the cuisine indoors.  

Día de Muertos Travel & Other Celebrations

If you want to experience Mexico City in action, you should visit during the world-renowned celebrations of Day of the Dead in November or Day of Mexican Independence in September. Just remember it will be crowded and hotel prices will be higher. 

This means you should book your flights, hotel and museums like Casa Azul way in advance if you plan on visiting during these high-traffic dates. Tickets for Casa Azul sell out really quickly for Nov. 1–3 (they’re released at the beginning of the month for the following month). 

Final Thoughts on Visiting Mexico City

If there’s one thing I can advise you on, it’s to simply enjoy this beautiful, wonderful, chaotic Mexican gem. 

Pop into an art gallery or café as you explore neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma Norte. Bring home unique goodies from vendor markets like Filomena or Bazar Resiliente on weekends. Devour the street food — if there’s a long line, it’s likely delicious. Get lost for hours in the museums and learn as much about the culture as you can. 

Are you ready to start planning? Check out my full three days in Mexico City guide for a day-by-day breakdown. And for a curated rundown of the must-sees, my best things to do in Mexico City list has you covered. 

Save this post for when you start planning your trip or drop any questions you have about Mexico City in a comment below. 

You will fall in love with Mexico, Mexico City and its people — that’s a guarantee.