20 Things to Do in Mexico City That Are Actually Worth Your Time

Mexico City is one of my absolute favorite places in the entire world. And even after five visits, I’m still finding new things to do in Mexico City that blow my mind. The sheer size of this city means every trip has the potential to be a completely different experience.

This is my personal, no-bs list of the 20 things to do in Mexico City that I’d put on any itinerary, whether it’s your first time or your fifth. From world-class museums to tacos that live rent-free in my head, these are the spots that are genuinely worth your time.

Still in the early planning stages? Start with my Mexico City travel guide for first timers for everything from where to stay to how to get around — then come back here to build your must-see list.

BOSQUE DE CHAPULTEPEC

Obviously, we gotta start this swanky list of the best things to do in CDMX with the iconique lungs of the city — el Bosque de Chapultepec! Colloquially referred to simply as Chapultepec, this urban park is home to some of the most visited historic and cultural spots of Mexico City. The park is huuuuuge — it spans 1,700 hectares! Not that we can even visualize that accurately; but just trust me, it’s big.

The Chapultepec area was considered sacred during the pre-colonial times of Tenochtitlán. Nowadays, it’s also the most important ecological site of the city. Here, you’ll find Castillo de Chapultepec, the Museo de Antropología, the Chapultepec Zoo and the Rufino Tamayo contemporary art museum. But more importantly, you’ll also find my most favorite potato chips with chile being sold all over the place. Seriously. One time, I bought one vendor’s entire remaining chip supply to bring back home.

But back to my super official travel recommendations for Mexico City. The zoo, museums and castle at Chapultepec are pretty expansive. It’s smart to pick two (for example, Chapultepec Castle and the Museum of Anthropology) to hit in one day, and then, plan to spend half a day or more on those two things. This lets you explore the park and its cultural offerings for the day — while staying in the same area!

CASTILLO DE CHAPULTEPEC

I feel like I’m going to be saying, “This is a must,” a lot. But I mean it — Castillo de Chapultepec is a MUST and is one of the best things to see in Mexico City. The castle is an important site of Mexico’s history and it has served as a military academy, as the once-home of the emperor Maximilian of Hapsburg, and now as the museum of national history. One of the most notable parts of the history of Chapultepec Castle is the “Niños Héroes” — the young military cadets that died defending the castle during one of the major battles of the Mexican-American War in 1847.

There’s an incredible mural by Mexican painter Gabriel Flores that you can see as you go up the main steps of the building (pictured above). The mural depicts Juán Escutia, one of the “Niños Héroes,” and it features symbols, like the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, that allude to the many tragedies that Mexico suffered after losing the war.

Throughout the many rooms in the castle, you can see paintings and other artworks that depict Mexico’s history from 1521 to the 20th century, gorgeous stained-glass windows, and even the bedroom of Empress Carlota of México. Don’t miss the beautiful gardens at the top. You’ll also catch stunning views of the Bosque de Chapultepec and Paseo de la Reforma (pictured above). You can purchase tickets online (look for Museo Nacional de Historia) or at the entrance for $95 MXN (about $6 USD), and you should plan to spend about two hours here. Walking up to the castle will also provide beautiful views of the bosque! Such a fave!

MUSEO DE ANTROPOLOGÍA

The National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City is a total must-see for every Mexico City itinerary. This place is simply immense and mesmerizing. You can spend hours and hours wandering through every exhibit room. It’s the largest museum in all of México. Look for the Stone of the Sun, giant Olmec stone heads, and more archeological treasures recovered from the Aztecs, Mayans, etc. The permanent exhibit covers all of México’s pre-Columbian civilizations. The museum’s divided by the different regions and their respective civilizations. And every room is filled with so many archaeological and anthropological pieces — it’s truly a wonder to witness.

It’s a good one to hit after el Castillo because it’s also in Bosque de Chapultepec park. Tickets cost $95 MXN (about $7 USD). You can buy tickets online (look for Museo de Antropología) or at the door. Plan to spend at least two hours here if you want to see everything.

MUSEO SOUMAYA

Museo Soumaya is one of my favorite museums in Mexico City and also a must-see. Another fave? *Pretends to be shocked.* Architecturally speaking, the building covered in 16,000 hexagonal aluminum tiles is simply a marvel to look at. The museum opened in 2011, and it’s home to one of the most important collections of art in Latin America.

It’s got a vast, and I do mean VAST, private collection of more than 66,000 pieces of art spread out through its astonishing six floors. You’ll see works from so many different eras, styles and media, including pre-hispanic Mesoamerican sculptures and pieces by Diego Rivera, Van Gogh, Dali, Matisse, Picasso, and so many more.

Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here — more if you really want to see EVERYTHING. And guess what? Admission is free. The museum is located in the Polanco neighborhood, known for its art galleries, fine dining and upscale shopping. After you’re done with your six-floor artsy-fartsy journey, you can visit the contemporary art museum Museo Jumex (also free!) right next door to Museo Soumaya.

El ZÓCALO

El Zócalo is the main square in Mexico City’s historic center. It’s where people gather for Independence Day celebrations, swearing-in of presidents, modern Mexican ceremonies and more. The Mexico City Zócalo can hold about 100,000 people and is often the place of many protests and political events. It’s pretty marvelous to stand in because of its size. Like, you will feel tiny for sure.

From here, you can head to restaurants like Cafe de Tacuba for a traditional meal; have rooftop drinks at El Mayor; go inside the cathedral, visit the Templo Mayor to see the place where the Aztecs saw the eagle perched on a cactus eating a snake, or take a leisurely stroll down La Alameda Central, an urban park where you’ll see the beautiful Palacio de Bellas Artes.

MERCADO LA MERCED

Aquí te van a gritar, “Pásele güerito!” por todos lados. Mercado La Merced is a huge public market in La Merced neighborhood where you can get traditional food, meats (do you need a whole cow?), tacos, or even a gigantic block of cheese like I did the first time I visited Mexico City. You can pick up exotic fruits, specialty souvenirs, mole to bring back and cook at home, and other traditional spices.

It’s very easy to get lost because of its size and the amount of vendors you’ll find. The market is 88,000 square feet! And you can truly find anything and everything at this market. So, I recommend you hire a local guide to walk you through the endless stalls!

Alternatively, take a Mexican Food 101 Tour with Eat Like a Local to get to know this market in depth. You’ll walk away with a better of understanding of this place’s importance to the community and a full belly. I wrote a full review of their Mexico City food tour if you want the complete breakdown before booking.

CAFEBRERÍA EL PÉNDULO

Cafebrería El Péndulo is a really cool bookstore that’s also a café! I may or may not have bought too many books last time I was there. You can also buy vinyls and movies in the bookstore or food and drinks at the café. Grab a book, find a seat and spend some time brushing up on the magic of Mexico City. Then, walk up the street to Parque España or Avenida Mexico where you’ll see beautiful purple flowers in the spring.

TACOS ORINOCO

Food is my passion, and I’m very passionate about tacos. People either love or hate Tacos Orinoco. I’ll let you make your own mind up about them and keep them in this list of the best things to do in Mexico City.

They have several locations throughout the city. And they’re open conveniently late — making it the perfect aprés party spot! With delicious salsa options, con copia y costra, there’s nothing like it.

The aesthetic of Tacos Orinoco is reminiscent of old-school taquerías from my childhood in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, with the metal Coca Cola tables and chairs. The most popular dish is the delicious tacos de trompo. These are a taco traditionally filled with al pastor meat sliced from a vertical rotisserie (the trompo). The chicharrón and res (beef) tacos are also super yummy! Pro tip: ask for a costra. A costra is a crispy layer of melted cheese that essentially creates a second tortilla for your taco. It’s an explosion of flavor you will fall in love with. I guarantee it!

ÁNGEL DE LA INDEPENDENCIA

This super iconic monument dedicated to Mexico’s independence is located in probably the most recognized roundabout in the world in Mexico City’s Paseo de la Reforma, a huge avenue that crosses the heart of the city.

Most commonly referred to as El Ángel, the 118-feet-tall monument was built in 1910, 100 years after Mexico’s war of independence. Several renowned figures of the war of independence are buried here, including Miguel Hidalgo and José María Morelos y Pavón (icons!!). The street where the monument is located is a major connecting roadway — you’re highly likely to pass by it at least once if you take an Uber or taxi anywhere!

ANTARA FASHION HALL

Across the street from Museo Soumaya, Antara Fashion Hall is an open-air shopping mall in the upscale Polanco neighborhood. It’s a great spot for all kinds of shopping. You’ll find just about anything in one of the 148 brand-name stores in this fancy-ass shopping mall. We’re talking Zara, Alo, Lululemon, Mango, Bershka, COS (!!), Sandro and so many more. They also have different art installations and exhibits all the time (Check out their website to see what’s on now!). If you want to go shopping in Mexico City, Antara is one of the places you can’t miss!

TORRE LATINOAMERICANA

I’m obsessed with panoramic views of cities I do not live in. You can find this one in the historic center of Mexico City. Standing 44 stories above ground — Torre Latinoamericana is the first anti-earthquake building in Mexico City. You can get souvenirs and snacks at the top. There’s also a restaurant and a couple of museums here. But the best part is the views of the city from above, obvi. You can spot the Basilica de Guadalupe from the top as well as Palacio de Bellas Artes.

You can get tickets for the Mirador Torre Latino observation deck for 150 MXN (about $9 USD) in person or online.

BIBLIOTECA VASCONCELOS

I haven’t been lucky enough to see this incredible place in person … YET. Books. Architecture. Aesthetics? Biblioteca Vasconcelos is all me. There’s also a garden and cultural center on site — plus, a greenhouse and café that aren’t operating.

The controversial budget for this behemoth was an astronomical $100 million. After it was opened in 2006, it was soon closed for a couple years because of architectural defects. But now, the nine-story library’s huge bookshelves look like they are floating. I just want to walk along those halls to get lost in books.

MONUMENTO A LA REVOLUCIÓN

Located in Plaza de la República just outside the Mexico City historic center, this 220-feet-tall monument dedicated to the Mexican Revolution (1910–1920) is the largest triumphal arch in the world. No visit to Mexico City is complete without this monument on it! Several iconic figures of Mexican revolutionary history are laid to rest here, including Pancho Villa and Francisco I. Madero.

At first sight, it’s just a monument. Also at first sight, it’s not that big. But if you get close, you can truly appreciate its vast height and size. Just see how tiny the people look next to it in the picture above.

Don’t miss the glass elevator that takes you up to the observation deck in the cupola. And underneath it, there’s an exhibition space, gallery and a museum of the Mexican Revolution. Tickets to see everything are $90 MXN (about $5 USD), and it’s a pretty quick stop to include in your ultimate Mexico City itinerary!

PALACIO DE BELLAS ARTES

Palacio de Bellas Artes is a gorgeous and important cultural center in the historic center of Mexico City 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, see a play or an opera; and much more! The murals inside the palace are very peculiar and a must-see if it’s your first time in Mexico City.

ROOFTOP DRINKS AT SUPRA ROMA ROOFTOP

I plan my trips around where we’re going to eat. And I do extensive research on food for each itinerary I create. Now, if you’ve been paying attention to the quickly growing hype of Mexico City food and cuisine, you’re gonna know we’re just dipping the tiniest pinky toe into the never-ending delicious offerings this metropolitan behemoth has to offer.

Supra Roma Rooftop is a lovely rooftop in the heart of the trendy Roma neighborhood. It offers some of the best city views of Mexico City, delicious eats with an international flare, and specialty cocktail drinks for anyone looking for a fun night out! This place is not only a restaurant and bar, but they also host different types of events, like yoga, Sunday brunches and DJ events. My menu recommendations are the tuna tostadas, burrata, popcorn shrimp (spicy, crunchy and delicious) and the fried cauliflower. Make reservations ahead of time online to guarantee a table!

XOCHIMILCO

How do I even begin to explain Xochimilco?! This place is so many things. It’s fun, desmadre and Mariachi bands floating by you on trajineras. It’s also Mexican families on weekend outings celebrating birthdays and history that dates back to Tenochtitlán. Obvi, it’s one of my favorite spots in this Mexico City list (I know, I know. How are all of these my favorite spots!? Mexico City is THAT girl).

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 $500 MXN per hour for a grand-old time. Depending on where you’re staying, it takes about 45 min.–1 hr. to get to Xochimilco by Uber. When requesting an Uber to Xochimilco, look up “embarcadero nuevo nativitas,” so they’ll take you to the main canal area.

Plan at least for a 2-hour ride to see most of the main tourist area in 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 and explanation of the chinampas.

I have a couple of tips to ensure you have the best time in Xochimilco:

• There will be many people approaching you as you arrive, and they’ll invite you to rent the trajinera with them. As long as they’re charging you the set max. rate of $600 MXN per hour PER BOAT, pick whoever you want or pick the boat with the name you want.
• I recommend you buy drinks and snacks to bring on the boat at the convenience stores across the street.
• If you don’t do B, you’ll also be able to buy traditional food like tacos, elotes and more from the vendors on the trajineras throughout the ride.
• Pay one of the Mariachi bands you’re bound to bump into through the ride and savor the absolute beauty and warmth that is Mexican culture.

DRINKS AT GIN GIN

Gin Gin is a really fun bar in the Roma neighborhood with a cool vibe, good music, creative gin cocktails and yummy pizza. The crowd’s a good mix of people because of its location in Roma. It’s a little bit hipstery, but not too bad. I liked that the music varied from electronic to pop to reggaetón and more. Reservations are recommended!

COYOACÁN

Coyoacán is only about a 30 min. ride away from the Mexico City historic center. This is one of the oldest neighborhood and is absolutely one of the best places to visit in Mexico City. You’ll feel a different vibe from everywhere else in the city as you walk through its lovely cobblestone streets and past its beautiful colorful homes.

Coyoacán is famous for being Frida Kahlo’s home. It’s where you’ll find the famous Casa Azul, her home and now a museum of her life (see below). Many writers, artists and intellectuals have lived in Coyoacán throughout its history. You can find gorgeous artisan pottery, textiles and jewelry in the renowned Mercado de Coyoacán as well as delicious traditional cuisine in the area of the main Plaza Hidalgo and Jardín Centenario.

Plan to spend about half a day here. Start the day at Casa Azul because it’ll take the longest. (Make sure you buy tickets ahead of time!) Then, head to Jardín Centenario for people watching, late breakfast or lunch, and even an ice cream. Do the Leon Trotsky Museum next, and end the day at Mercado Coyoacán. And that’s how you spend one day in Coyoacán. You’re welcome!

CASA AZUL

Casa Azul is one of my top favorite places in all of Mexico City! (Bro, I knowwww I keep saying that.) This iconic cobalt-blue home is the place where Frida Kahlo was born, grew up, lived her life with Diego Rivera, and eventually died. It’s now a museum of her life’s work where you can see a personal collection of her artwork, memorabilia, her clothes, personal items and more.

Frida Kahlo’s study is one of the most fascinating rooms in the house as it looks exactly as she left it. It’s unbelievable to feel the presence of her artistic genius in the air. There’s really nothing quite like it. Casa Azul is a very popular spot so getting tickets at least two weeks in advance is a must.

TEOTIHUACÁN

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

Although, it’s easy to assume so, this was not an Aztec/Mexica Mesoamerican city, as it predated the Mexicas by centuries. I have very fond memories of visiting with my family about 12 years ago. My sister and I climbed the 248 uneven steps to the top and the view was incredible.

This is a perfect option for a day trip from Mexico City because of the site’s proximity to the city. The most-recommended way 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. But you can also take a taxi or book a private tour through Airbnb or your hotel. Teotihuacán is definitely a Mexico City must-see.

And That’s the List of Best Things to Do in Mexico City!

Now, you have a perfect starting point to make an amazing itinerary full of the top things to do in Mexico City. I want to hear all about your own top Mexico City recommendations and adventures. Drop a comment below with your own CDMX fave I might’ve missed.

Ready to plan the Mexico City full trip around these spots? My three-day Mexico City itinerary maps out exactly how to fit the best of this list into a long weekend — with food stops, neighborhood flow and what to skip if you’re short on time.

-V