Things To Do In Mexico City: Video Guide

Things to Do in Mexico City: Ultimate Guide to the Vibrant Heart of Mexico

Welcome to the bustling metropolis of Mexico City, a captivating blend of ancient history and modern vitality! From towering pyramids to world-class museums, and from mouthwatering street food to stunning architecture, this guide will unveil the very best things to do in Mexico City. Let’s check out the rich tapestry of experiences awaiting you in the vibrant heart of Mexico!

1. Step Back in Time at Templo Mayor

Begin your Mexico City adventure at the heart of the ancient Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. The Templo Mayor, once the main temple of the Aztecs, now stands as a fascinating archaeological site and museum. Uncover layers of history as you explore the ruins and artifacts that tell the story of Mexico’s pre-Hispanic past.

Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat. The site opens at 9 AM Tuesday through Sunday.

2. Marvel at the Grandeur of the Metropolitan Cathedral

Just steps away from Templo Mayor, the Metropolitan Cathedral dominates the Zócalo (main square) with its imposing facade. This architectural masterpiece, built over three centuries, showcases a unique blend of baroque, neoclassical, and Gothic styles.

Pro Tip: Climb the bell towers for a breathtaking view of the Zócalo and beyond. The tour is offered for a small fee and provides a unique perspective of the city’s historic center.

3. Immerse Yourself in Art at Frida Kahlo Museum

Journey to the colorful neighborhood of Coyoacán to visit La Casa Azul, the blue house where the iconic artist Frida Kahlo lived and worked. Now a museum, it offers an intimate glimpse into Kahlo’s life, art, and personal belongings.

Time-Saving Hack: Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist season.

4. Explore the Canals of Xochimilco

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Xochimilco, often called the “Venice of Mexico.” Hop aboard a colorful trajinera (gondola-like boat) and float through ancient canals lined with chinampas (floating gardens). Enjoy live mariachi music, local snacks, and the festive ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Local Secret: Visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience, as weekends can get quite crowded with both tourists and locals.

5. Discover World-Class Art at the National Museum of Anthropology

Delve into Mexico’s rich cultural heritage at the National Museum of Anthropology. Home to an extensive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including the famous Aztec Sun Stone, this museum offers a comprehensive journey through Mexico’s diverse indigenous cultures.

Culture Vulture Tip: Allow at least half a day to fully appreciate the museum’s vast collection. Don’t miss the iconic umbrella fountain in the central courtyard!

6. Stroll Through the Vibrant Streets of Roma and Condesa

Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Roma and Condesa, known for their tree-lined streets, beautiful Art Deco architecture, and hip cafes. These areas are perfect for a leisurely walk, boutique shopping, and sampling some of the city’s best restaurants and bars.

Foodie Alert: Try the tacos al pastor at El Califa in Condesa, often hailed as some of the best in the city.

7. Ascend the Torre Latinoamericana

For panoramic views of Mexico City, head to the observation deck of the Torre Latinoamericana. This 44-story skyscraper offers 360-degree vistas of the sprawling metropolis, with the added thrill of being in a building that has withstood several major earthquakes.

Sunset Suggestion: Time your visit for golden hour to witness a spectacular sunset over the city skyline.

8. Wander Through the Historic Center

Lose yourself in the vibrant streets of Mexico City’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From the grand Palacio de Bellas Artes to the bustling Alameda Central park, this area is packed with historical landmarks, street performers, and local life.

Shopping Tip: Visit the Ciudadela Market for a wide array of traditional Mexican crafts and souvenirs.

9. Experience the Lucha Libre

Dive into Mexican pop culture with an evening of Lucha Libre, Mexico’s iconic masked wrestling. The acrobatic moves, colorful costumes, and theatrical performances make for an unforgettable night of entertainment.

Authenticity Alert: Attend a show at Arena México, known as the “Cathedral of Lucha Libre,” for the most authentic experience.

10. Indulge in Mexico City’s Culinary Scene

No visit to Mexico City is complete without savoring its renowned culinary offerings. From street tacos to high-end restaurants, the city is a food lover’s paradise.

Gastronomic Highlights:

• Sample exotic fruits and local specialties at Mercado de la Merced
• Try the iconic chiles en nogada at El Cardenal
• Indulge in fine dining at Pujol, consistently ranked among the world’s best restaurants

Street Food Safety: Look for busy stands with high turnover for the freshest and safest street food experiences.

11. Explore the Stunning Chapultepec Castle

Perched atop Chapultepec Hill, this castle offers a unique blend of regal architecture and panoramic city views. Once an imperial palace and presidential residence, it now houses the National Museum of History.

Nature Lover’s Note: The castle is situated in Chapultepec Park, one of the largest city parks in the Western Hemisphere. Consider spending extra time exploring its lakes, forests, and numerous museums.

12. Visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Experience the spiritual heart of Mexico at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the most visited Catholic pilgrimage site in the world. The modern basilica houses the original cloak of Juan Diego, which bears the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

Respectful Reminder: Remember that this is an active place of worship. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.

13. Take a Day Trip to Teotihuacan

Just an hour’s drive from Mexico City lies the ancient city of Teotihuacan, home to the massive Pyramids of the Sun and Moon. Climb these awe-inspiring structures and walk the Avenue of the Dead for an unforgettable journey into Mexico’s pre-Columbian past.

Early Bird Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and the midday heat. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable walking shoes.

14. Discover Modern Art at Museo Soumaya

Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Museo Soumaya, recognizable by its distinctive honeycomb-covered facade. The museum houses over 66,000 works of art, including pieces by European old masters and modern Western artists.

Budget-Friendly Bonus: Admission to Museo Soumaya is free, making it a perfect addition to any itinerary.

15. Experience the Day of the Dead Celebrations

If you’re visiting in late October or early November, don’t miss the spectacular Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) celebrations. While not unique to Mexico City, the capital puts on impressive parades, exhibitions, and altar displays during this time.

Cultural Insight: Remember that while visually stunning, Day of the Dead is a deeply meaningful celebration for remembering and honoring deceased loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Mexico City safe for tourists?

While, like any large city, Mexico City has areas to be cautious in, most tourist areas are generally safe. Exercise normal precautions, stick to well-traveled areas, and avoid displaying valuable items.

2. What’s the best time of year to visit Mexico City?

The best time to visit is from March to May, when the weather is pleasant and jacaranda trees bloom throughout the city. October to November is also good, with mild temperatures and the chance to experience Day of the Dead celebrations.

3. How many days do I need to explore Mexico City?

While you could see the main highlights in 3-4 days, a stay of 5-7 days would allow you to explore at a more relaxed pace and take day trips to nearby attractions like Teotihuacan.

4. Is the water safe to drink in Mexico City?

It’s generally recommended to drink bottled water in Mexico City. Most hotels and restaurants use purified water for ice and food preparation, but it’s best to ask if you’re unsure.

5. How do I get around Mexico City?

Mexico City has an extensive public transportation system, including metro, metrobús, and trolleybuses. Uber and authorized taxi services are also widely available. For longer distances within the city, the metro is often the fastest option due to heavy traffic.

Interesting Facts About Mexico City

1. Mexico City is built on a lake! The Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan was founded on an island in Lake Texcoco.
2. It’s the oldest capital city in the Americas, founded in 1325.
3. The city sinks about 10 inches (25 cm) per year due to the depletion of groundwater.
4. Mexico City’s Chapultepec Park is one of the largest city parks in the Western Hemisphere, almost twice the size of New York’s Central Park.
5. The city is home to the only royal castle in North America, Chapultepec Castle.
6. Mexico City has more museums than any other city in the world, with over 150 museums.
7. Movie Connection: Several scenes from the James Bond film “Spectre” (2015) were filmed in Mexico City, featuring a spectacular Day of the Dead parade sequence.

Ready to Explore Mexico City?

From ancient pyramids to cutting-edge cuisine, Mexico City offers a unique blend of experiences that will leave you inspired and wanting more. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, foodie, or culture enthusiast, the Mexican capital has something special in store for you.

Ready to start planning your Mexico City adventure? Here are some resources to help you get started:

• Flights: Find the best deals on flights to Mexico City International Airport (MEX) using our interactive flight pricing map. Compare real-time prices and choose the perfect flight to start your Mexico City experience.
• Hotels: From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly options, find your ideal Mexico City accommodation here.
• Car Rentals: While public transport is excellent in Mexico City, you might want to explore the surrounding areas. Check out our car rental options.
• Airport Transfers: Start your Mexico City adventure stress-free with a pre-booked airport transfer. Book your taxi or transfer here.

Mexico City is waiting to share its stories, flavors, and unique charm with you. Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to fall in love with this incredible metropolis. ¡Buen viaje!