Mexico City, or CDMX as locals affectionately call it, is a sprawling metropolis that consistently ranks among the world’s top travel destinations. Its magnetic appeal is undeniable, drawing in millions of tourists, both domestic and international, year after year. The city boasts an unparalleled blend of historical landmarks, a vibrant and rich cultural tapestry, and a culinary scene that is simply out of this world. After spending six incredible nights immersed in the heart of this captivating city, fueled by extensive pre-trip research through countless blogs and YouTube channels, we’ve compiled this Mexico City Travel Guide to share our firsthand experiences and address any concerns you might have about navigating this exhilarating urban landscape.
Metropolitan Cathedral in Mexico City, Mexico
Alt text: Grand Metropolitan Cathedral, a historical landmark in Mexico City’s vibrant cityscape, showcasing colonial architecture against a clear sky.
Unveiling Mexico City’s Must-See Tourist Attractions
Prepare to be captivated! Mexico City offers an inexhaustible array of attractions and activities, ensuring you’ll never encounter a dull moment in this dynamic megacity. Known locally as CDMX, Mexico City is a cultural treasure trove, home to over 150 museums. These institutions cater to diverse interests, ranging from classical history to unique themes like the Tequila and Mezcal Museum, offering immersive experiences into Mexico’s rich heritage.
A truly unmissable highlight is the National Museum of Anthropology. This expansive complex is a gateway to Mexico’s fascinating past, showcasing breathtaking artifacts that narrate the country’s intricate history. For art enthusiasts, the Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as the Blue House (Casa Azul), is a pilgrimage site. This iconic blue house was the birthplace, residence, and workplace of Mexico’s most celebrated artist, Frida Kahlo, offering intimate glimpses into her life and artistic journey.
Venturing into the Historic Center (Centro Histórico) is like stepping back in time. Here, magnificent colonial-era buildings stand proudly, including the awe-inspiring Metropolitan Cathedral, a testament to architectural grandeur. Juxtaposed against these colonial marvels are the ancient Aztec ruins of Templo Mayor, a powerful reminder of the city’s pre-colonial roots and the civilizations that once thrived here.
Beyond sightseeing and cultural immersion, Mexico City is a culinary paradise. While Mexican food enjoys global popularity, experiencing it in Mexico is a revelation. The sheer diversity of dishes and regional specialties is astounding, with flavors and ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds. From tantalizing street food stalls offering authentic tacos and tamales to world-renowned fine dining establishments like Pujol, Mexico City’s gastronomic landscape is a journey in itself. And as the sun sets, the city’s nightlife awakens. Neighborhoods like Roma Norte pulse with energy, boasting an array of amazing bars where you can savor expertly crafted Mezcal-based cocktails and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
How Many Days are Sufficient to Explore Mexico City?
While you could easily spend weeks, even months, uncovering all the layers of Mexico City, most travelers have time constraints. To experience the city’s major tourist attractions and immerse yourself in its most popular neighborhoods, we recommend allocating 3 to 4 days. Our six-night stay provided the perfect balance, allowing us to explore the city at a comfortable pace and even take a memorable day trip to Teotihuacán, an ancient Mesoamerican city and a true highlight of our Mexican adventure. However, if you desire a more in-depth exploration or plan to venture further afield, extending your stay to seven to ten days would be richly rewarding.
Optimal Time to Visit Mexico City: Weather and Festivities
The best time to visit Mexico City is during the dry season, which spans from October to April. We explored the city in February and found it to be an ideal period. Days were pleasantly warm and sunny, perfect for strolling through parks and exploring archaeological sites, while evenings were cooler. Expect nighttime temperatures to range from 7-10°C (45-50°F) during this season, so packing a jacket or hoodie is advisable.
The rainy season occurs from May to September, bringing warmer temperatures and, predictably, rainfall. If you are planning a visit during this period, be prepared for afternoon showers and pack accordingly.
For a truly unique cultural experience, consider visiting Mexico City at the beginning of November for the globally renowned Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) celebrations. The city comes alive with vibrant colors, elaborate altars, and a palpable festive spirit. Mexico City hosts a spectacular citywide parade on the Saturday preceding the actual holiday, a mesmerizing spectacle you won’t want to miss.
It’s also important to be mindful of Mexico City’s altitude. Situated at approximately 2,240 meters (7,350 feet) above sea level, the city’s elevation can affect visitors unaccustomed to higher altitudes. Altitude sickness is a possibility, and the city’s air quality, influenced by traffic fumes and pollution, can exacerbate these effects. We recommend building some flexibility into your itinerary to allow for acclimatization, potentially including a day or two of lighter activity upon arrival.
Safety in Mexico City: Addressing Concerns for Tourists
Is Mexico City safe for tourists? Generally, yes. While it’s undeniable that crime exists in Mexico, sensationalized media portrayals often exaggerate the risks. Mexico welcomes millions of tourists annually, and the vast majority experience safe and enjoyable trips. Tourism is a vital industry for the country, and the government invests significantly in ensuring visitor safety, particularly in tourist-centric areas.
Applying common-sense safety practices, similar to those you would employ in any major city, is key. As someone who grew up in London and was instilled with a strong sense of safety awareness, I felt comfortable and secure throughout my time in Mexico City. Prioritizing safety, trusting your instincts, and avoiding known unsafe areas will significantly contribute to a positive and secure experience in Mexico City and throughout much of the country.
When utilizing public transportation, remain vigilant and be aware of your surroundings, especially concerning pickpockets. Wear backpacks on your chest, with straps securely over your shoulders. If carrying a handbag, keep it close to your body with the zipper or opening facing inward, ideally with your hand resting on the fastening. Avoid placing valuables in front or back pockets. To minimize crowds, try to avoid rush hour on public transport (7 am-9 am and 5 pm-7 pm).
For solo female travelers, Mexico City offers designated women-only sections on the metro and buses. On the metro, these are typically the front carriages, and on buses, they are clearly marked sections, usually at the front or back. These spaces are exclusively for women and children, providing an added layer of comfort and security.
Another point of awareness is the potential for corrupt police. Stories of police officers extorting money from tourists for minor or fabricated infractions circulate. While such incidents are not widespread, it’s prudent to be informed. Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations, as some actions legal in your home country might be considered illegal in Mexico (e.g., public drinking in certain areas). If stopped by the police and accused of an offense, assess the situation carefully and use your judgment on how to proceed. Some travelers choose to pay a small sum to avoid prolonged interaction, while others insist on due process, which can sometimes deter the officers.
Navigating Mexico City with Public Transportation
Public transportation in Mexico City is remarkably efficient, affordable, and easy to navigate. The city boasts an extensive network of buses and metro lines connecting all corners of the metropolis. The metro system is particularly user-friendly, comprised of 12 lines identified by distinct colors and numbers, making it less confusing than many other urban metro systems. Lines 1, 2, 3, and 8 are particularly central, linking the Historic Center to popular neighborhoods like Roma Norte, Roma Sud, and La Condesa. You can access a comprehensive metro map here.
A single metro journey costs a mere 5 pesos, while bus fares are 6 pesos. For frequent public transport users, investing in a rechargeable Mexico City Metro Card is highly recommended. This eliminates the need to purchase individual tickets for each journey. A Metro Card costs 15 pesos and can be easily topped up with credit at any underground or Metrobús station. Some private retailers throughout the city also offer card recharge services.
In addition to regular buses, Metrobús services operate on dedicated lanes at street level, mirroring many underground metro lines. Metrobuses offer the advantage of traversing the city directly, often saving travel time. Each Metrobús ride costs 6 pesos and can be paid using your Metro Card.
Uber Availability in Mexico City
Yes, Uber is readily available and remarkably affordable in Mexico City. Many residents and tourists utilize Uber extensively, day and night, as a convenient and often preferred alternative to driving or public transport, especially after dark. Using Uber at night is strongly recommended, particularly for solo travelers, as it is generally considered safer than hailing regular taxis, some of which may be unlicensed.
Booking Accommodation in Mexico City: Tips and Platforms
For stays exceeding three or four nights, we typically opt for Airbnb for a more home-like experience. For shorter stays, or when seeking hotels and hostels, we utilize platforms like Booking.com, Hostelworld, and Agoda to compare options. Our primary focus is on price and location, and we meticulously read reviews, starting with the most recent, to identify any potential red flags. In Mexico City, common issues mentioned in reviews were noise disturbances and inconsistent hot water supply.
Choosing the Right Neighborhood in Mexico City: Area Guide
Mexico City is composed of numerous distinct neighborhoods, each possessing its own unique character and appeal. Selecting the right neighborhood to stay in can significantly impact your experience. Consider the desired atmosphere, proximity to tourist attractions, and transportation links when making your decision. While dozens of neighborhoods exist, here are some of the most popular and recommended areas for tourists:
-
Centro Histórico (Historic Center): This is where we chose to stay, and we greatly appreciated the convenience of being within walking distance of many major tourist attractions. Excellent public transport connections, a vast selection of accommodation, restaurants, and bars, and a vibrant street food scene are all major draws. However, be aware that it can be noisy and crowded, potentially less ideal if you seek tranquility after a day of exploration.
-
Roma Norte: Renowned for its picturesque streets, stunning architecture, exceptional restaurants, and charming cafes. Its proximity to large green spaces like Chapultepec Park and Parque México adds to its appeal. Roma Norte is an excellent choice for those seeking a walkable, safe neighborhood with a relaxed and bohemian vibe.
-
La Condesa: Similar in character to Roma Norte but with a slightly more energetic nightlife scene. La Condesa boasts some of Mexico City’s trendiest nightlife spots. Pretty parks like Parque México and Parque España offer tranquil escapes for daytime relaxation or recovering from a night out.
-
Zona Rosa: Situated adjacent to the Historic Center, Zona Rosa is known for its lively nightlife, diverse restaurants, shopping centers, and bustling markets. It is also recognized as the city’s most LGBT-friendly neighborhood.
-
Coyoacán: Considered Mexico City’s most colorful neighborhood, Coyoacán exudes a safe, family-friendly, artistic, and bohemian atmosphere. It is home to contemporary art galleries, museums, and popular markets. However, it is located approximately 40 minutes south of the Historic Center, requiring reliance on Uber or public transportation for accessing other parts of the city.
-
Polanco: Mexico City’s most upscale and luxurious neighborhood, Polanco is characterized by opulent hotels, pristine parks, high-end restaurants, chic cocktail bars, and upscale shopping boutiques. Avenida Masaryk, its main shopping thoroughfare, is often dubbed the “Rodeo Drive of Mexico City.” Accommodation and dining in Polanco are noticeably more expensive than in other areas.
Areas to Avoid in Mexico City: Safety Precautions
Based on our research and local insights, it is advisable to avoid the neighborhoods of Tepito, Doctores, Iztapalapa, and Ciudad Neza, particularly at night. These areas are reported to have higher crime rates compared to other parts of the city. However, as a tourist, it is unlikely you would have reason to visit these neighborhoods. Sticking to the well-known tourist areas and exercising standard city safety precautions is generally sufficient.
Cost of a Trip to Mexico City: Budgeting Tips
The cost of a trip to Mexico City is highly adaptable to different budgets. It truly is a city that caters to all travelers, from budget backpackers to luxury seekers. On a tight budget, you can comfortably manage on around €30 per day. This budget allows for staying in hostel dormitories, utilizing the affordable metro system, and indulging in delicious and inexpensive street food (we encountered tacos as cheap as 12 pesos!). Sightseeing is also budget-friendly, with many museums charging around €5 for admission.
Our travel style leans towards mid-range comfort. We averaged around €90 per day in Mexico City (including accommodation). This included stays in a comfortable Airbnb apartment, dining at a mix of mid-range and higher-end restaurants (along with street food experiences), enjoying drinks at bars, extensive sightseeing, and utilizing Uber for convenient transportation. A general guideline for a comfortable mid-range budget is approximately €40 per person per day, including accommodation.
Accessing Free WiFi in Mexico City
Free public WiFi is not widely available in Mexico City, so relying on it for consistent connectivity is not advisable. Instead, we highly recommend purchasing a cheap Mexican SIM card with a data plan upon arrival. This ensures you have constant access to maps, translation apps, and the ability to call an Uber whenever needed. You can purchase SIM cards at the airport or at any Oxxo convenience store throughout the city (Mexico’s equivalent to 7-Eleven). While airport SIM cards might be slightly more expensive (around 25% markup), purchasing one immediately upon arrival provides instant connectivity.
We recommend Telcel, the largest mobile service provider in Mexico, for the best network coverage. We purchased a Telcel prepaid SIM card for 200 pesos (approximately €10/$11 USD) which included 3 Gigabytes of data valid for 30 days. Telcel prepaid plans typically include unlimited calls and texts within Mexico and often include unlimited social media usage (Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Twitter) that does not count against your data allowance. If you deplete your data, topping up (recarga) is easily done at any Oxxo or Telcel store.
Drinking Tap Water in Mexico City: Health Considerations
Unfortunately, tap water in Mexico City is not safe for drinking. To avoid potential health issues, consider these options:
- Inquire if your accommodation provides filtered water. Many hotels and Airbnbs offer purified water for guests.
- Invest in a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter, such as a Lifestraw or Water-To-Go bottle.
- Purchase large bottles of purified water to keep at your accommodation. Oxxo stores, pharmacies, and supermarkets sell large 20-liter containers for around €2-3, which can last for your entire stay. We found this to be a cost-effective and convenient solution.
Food Poisoning Risks in Mexico City: “Moctezuma’s Revenge”
Unfortunately, stomach upsets are common among visitors to Mexico City, often attributed to unfamiliar bacteria in the food and water. This phenomenon is so prevalent it has earned the nickname “Moctezuma’s revenge.” Tourists who indulge in street food and uncooked vegetables are particularly susceptible. While street food is undeniably delicious and a must-try culinary experience, it does carry a slightly elevated risk. To mitigate potential discomfort, we recommend packing anti-diarrheal tablets, especially if you have long bus or plane journeys planned.
Tipping Etiquette in Mexico City: A Guide to Gratuities
For good service in restaurants and bars in Mexico City, a 10% tip is standard. For exceptional service, tipping 15% or even 20% is considered appropriate and appreciated. While tipping is not customary for street food vendors, it is certainly appreciated if you feel inclined. Service charges are generally not included in bills, and tipping is considered a gesture of appreciation for good service. However, it’s worth noting that even when tipping, we occasionally encountered servers who seemed to expect even larger gratuities, which was a slightly disappointing aspect of the dining experience.
English Language Accessibility in Mexico City
English is spoken to varying degrees in tourist areas of Mexico City. In our experience, approximately 50% of waiters, waitresses, bartenders, and shop vendors we interacted with spoke some English. However, learning some basic Spanish words and phrases is highly recommended and greatly appreciated by locals. Making an effort to communicate in Spanish, even with simple greetings and phrases, demonstrates respect and enhances your interactions. Before our trip, we dedicated around four months to practicing Spanish using Duolingo (a free language learning app) and YouTube tutorials, which proved invaluable for our holiday and enriched our interactions with locals.
We hope this comprehensive Mexico City Travel Guide has been helpful in planning your upcoming adventure! Looking for more travel inspiration beyond Mexico City? Explore our 4-week itinerary for Mexico for exciting ideas on where to travel next in this diverse and fascinating country. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask them in the comments below, and we’ll do our best to provide helpful answers.
¡Ciao for now!
Izzie, the Curious Sparrow
