Best Things to Do Mexico City
Are you planning to visit the capital of Mexico and are trying to find the Best Things to Do in Mexico City? You are in the right place then!
When I began traveling to Mexico City often, it used to be perceived as a city with limited attractions and activities.However, as the travel community is slowly realizing, there are numerous fun activities to engage in while you’re in Mexico City! I’ve personally visited Mexico City around twelve times in the past decade. Therefore, I have put together a list of my favourite attractions, sites, and activities to help you find the best experiences. Additionally, if you need help finding accommodation, I’ve personally visited over a dozen hotels and created a guide to the best hotels in Mexico City.
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What drew me to Mexico City initially was the diversity of experiences it offers. And the city’s lively energy has made me keep returning! Despite its reputation being somewhat misunderstood, with many stories of crime and violence deterring some travelers, those who visit will discover a culturally-rich and exciting destination that is frequently praised as a favorite among visitors.
I hope you enjoy Mexico City (also known as CDMX, Distrito Federal, or D.F.) as much as I do!
To have a comprehensive Mexico City itinerary, make sure you visit the main square- the Plaza del Zócalo. It has been the center of Mexican history for over 700 years, and today, it’s used as a common point for festivals, protests, and events. Notably, the square hosts the National Palace, the Supreme Court, and the famous Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral- which has been the setting for some iconic Mexico City photos.
Another attraction on our list of Mexico City attractions is the Aztec ruins at Templo Mayor, which can be found just one block north of it.
Expert Tip: To enjoy stunning views of the Zócalo, you can visit my favorite hidden spot called The Balcón de Zócalo (pictured above). It’s a terrace situated in one of the hotels I love in CDMX, and you don’t have to be a guest to enjoy a drink and the views. Alternatively, there is a more affordable terrace, which you can check out as the last item on my list – Terraza Catedral. It is located above a hostel.
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A unique experience in Mexico City is taking a hot air balloon ride over the ruins.
📍 Google Maps | Open daily 9am to 5pm | Entrance fee 80 Mexican pesos adults and is free for children under 13
If you have time for only one day trip from Mexico City, visit the incredible ancient ruins of Teotihuacan.
Teotihuacan, which was one of the most significant cultural centers in pre-Hispanic Mesoamerica, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top tourist destination in Mexico.
The ancient city’s huge ruins are in impressive condition, given their nearly 2,000-year age. The main draws of this widely-visited site are the massive pyramids, including the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, the Pyramid of the Sun, and the Pyramid of the Moon (which visitors can climb).
Many tours include a visit to the 16th century Basilica de Guadalupe, which is one of the most popular Catholic destinations in the world. This visit occurs on the way to Teotihuacan.
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There are three ways to reach Teotihuacan: hiring a driver in Mexico City, taking a public bus from the Autobuses del Norte station, or joining a group tour. If you are looking for something unique, an excellent way to experience Teotihuacan is to reserve a hot air balloon ride over the ruins.
In recent years, there has been a transformation in the Juarez neighborhood. The once gritty area now boasts numerous boutiques, bars, parks, and restaurants such as Masala y Maiz, which offers a fusion of Mexican and Indian cuisines, and Niddo, a brightly-lit brunch spot. The leafy central Plaza Washington has many exciting places to visit, including La Rifa for artisanal chocolates, Loose Blues for vintage vinyl and denim, and Elly’s for natural wines and handmade pastas.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Open 11am to 5pm, Closed Mondays | Entrance is 70 Mexican pesos and is free Sundays
Mexico City’s Palacio de Bellas Artes, also called the Palace of Fine Arts, is an impressive architectural structure located beside the Alameda Park in the city center of the Western Hemisphere.
The building’s construction began in 1904 with the intention of having a lavish National Theater of Mexico ready for inauguration in time for the Mexican Revolution’s 1910 centennial celebration as they sought independence from the Spanish. However, as is typical with construction projects in Mexico, it took thirty years to complete.
Today you can enjoy a variety of theatre, opera, dance, and art exhibitions at Palacio Bellas Artes. Nonetheless, it’s recommended to take some time to appreciate the remarkable exterior.
Expert Tip: To get a great view of the Palacio Bellas Artes, visit the terrace café on the 8th floor of the Sears department store. While you’re there, enjoy a cup of coffee and take some stunning photos for your Instagram.
Make sure you read the detailed list of the Best Restaurants and top-quality food in Mexico City.
📍 Google Maps | Open 5am to 6PM and Closed Mondays
Mexico City’s Chapultepec Park, also known as Bosques de Chapultepec, covers 686 hectares and was once a royal retreat in ancient Aztec times. The park’s forest is often referred to as the lungs of the city. Inside the park, there are various walking, running, and biking trails, as well as popular museums such as the Museum of Anthropology and the Rufino Tamayo Museum, and even the Chapultepec Zoo. It’s a must-visit for those who enjoyed New York’s Central Park!
On this list of things to do in Mexico City, the Chapultepec Castle is also included for you to explore. During weekends, the park becomes lively with local families, various vendors, and performers.
I recommend not visiting the park on a Monday as it is closed. I have made the mistake of visiting on a Monday several times in the past.
📍 Google Maps | Open 8am to 9:30pm daily
If you enjoy the idea of drinking on boats that are brightly decorated, you will probably like this popular activity in Mexico City. Xochimilco is a district of Mexico City that is situated approximately 45 minutes away from the city center. It is well-known among tourists for its Xochimilco Floating Gardens, which were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco were constructed on top of an ancient water transportation system utilized by the Aztecs. In present times, it serves as a river where visitors can lease vibrantly adorned gondola-like boats for 2-3 hour rides.
In Mexico City, many people enjoy a boat ride. Keep in mind that there will be other boats with street vendors who are selling food, drinks, and various items. Although the scenery is not particularly remarkable, it’s a fun and distinct activity that tourists and locals enjoy together.
To have a better experience, it’s recommended to rent a boat with a group of friends and follow the locals. If that’s impossible, you can still have a good time by joining a tour, such as the ones listed here.
The Parque Ecológico Zacango Zoo is located in the nearby city of Toluca, about an hour’s drive from Mexico City. It is home to around 180 different species of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, birds, primates, African herbivores, snakes, and reptiles. The zoo is divided into different zones based on the type of animal, such as carnivores and herbivores. It is a large zoo, so people should plan to spend several hours there.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Open 9am to 5pm, Tuesday – Sunday | Entrance 90 Mexican pesos
The National Anthropology Museum, also known as the Museo Nacional de Antropología, is situated at the north end of the Bosques de Chapultepec. It houses significant ethnographic collections in Mexico, making it an ideal destination to discover the country’s history. The remarkable modern architecture of the building is also a sight worth seeing.
Are you concerned about safety in Mexico City? Despite common beliefs about high crime rates, Mexico City is actually relatively safe. However, it’s still a good idea to consider purchasing vacation insurance for your trip to Mexico.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Open 10am to 6pm daily and closed Mondays
Despite being overshadowed by other museums in Mexico City, the National Art Museum of Mexico is a remarkable gem that should not be missed by tourists. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by a majestic staircase fit for royalty, surrounded by intricately adorned rooms that only get more impressive as you explore further. Don’t forget to take a moment to admire the stunning murals and find a serene spot to unwind in the tranquil courtyard.
I have visited this museum multiple times, and I have noticed that it is usually less crowded than other museums in the area. Therefore, it is a great option practicing social distancing while still enjoying Mexico City’s attractions.
Are you feeling hungry? Mexico City, the biggest and capital city of Mexico, offers the perfect opportunity to taste different kinds of food from various regions across Mexico and the world. If you’re looking for food tours, there are numerous reputable ones to choose from, ranging from street food to fine dining. However, I recommend the highly rated Polanco tour as the best all-around option. If you prefer a more convenient downtown location, there is also a popular tour available in the historic center. Just make sure you arrive with an empty stomach!
Looking for a unique way to explore Mexico City? Consider a bike tour! Led by a local guide, you’ll have the opportunity to ride through charming cobbled streets, breeze by bustling markets, and really soak up the vibe of this vibrant city. Depending on the specific tour you choose, you may even get to visit the former home of famous artist Frida Kahlo at Casa Azul and learn all about her fascinating life and work.
Would you like to see all the highlights of Mexico City but are short on time? Take an open-air bus tour and experience the history, architecture, cuisine, and culture of Mexico while comfortably sitting and following the audio guide. Several double-decker tours are available and follow different routes through the city, covering pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern Mexico. You can hop on and off the bus as much as you want throughout the day, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Although many activities in Mexico City are doable independently, it’s worth considering taking a tour as some offer additional benefits. This could include having a knowledgeable guide, more efficient transportation, or simply a more enjoyable experience in a group setting.
If you decide to do the tour on your own, you will need to spend 2.5 hours traveling each way. However, by choosing the tour, you can save a lot of time because they will pick you up from your hotel. Having an expert guide with you will also make the experience of exploring the impressive ruins even more fascinating. GetYourGuide or Viator.
Exploring Xochimilco, the Frida Kahlo Museum, the historic area of Cóyoacan, and the stunning university grounds on a tour is much more enjoyable with companions. These attractions are located quite far from the city center.
Watching Mexican wrestling with a group and someone who can explain the masks, plot twists, and identify the villains makes it even more enjoyable
We had a great time watching the lucha libre match, which was very entertaining and enjoyable, especially if you appreciate wrestling or extravagant performances. The wrestlers put on an impressive display, and the audience was extremely enthusiastic.
You can find matches in many venues around town, but one of the bigger locations is the Arena If you want to feel secure and avoid getting lost in the crowds, you can either purchase tickets online by yourself or join a popular group tour designed for foreigners when visiting Mexico.
You can book it here.
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You can learn more about the rich history and sights, spots, food and people by walking around the city with a local tour guide.
Definately one of the highlights of every Mexico City trip is the food and what better way to discover the authentic Mexican cuisine by visiting some of the best street food spots with a local.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Open 9am-5 pm daily and closed Mondays | Entrance 90 Mexican pesos
Chapultepec Castle is a site worth visiting in Mexico City. It is located in the middle of Bosques de Chapultepec and stands tall on a hill. The castle is a royal palace and is one of the two such palaces in North America. Palace of Iturbide, another royal palace, is also in Mexico City. The construction of Chapultepec Castle began in 1785 as per the orders of the Spanish Viceroy. It has undergone significant changes over the years, including serving as an observatory during the 19th century.
You can visit the palace’s extensive grounds today, including the elaborate interior and beautiful gardens outside. Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes for the uphill walk, when preparing your Mexico packing list.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Open 9am – 5 pm from Tuesday – Sunday and Closed Monday
The Aztecs considered the Templo Mayor as the center of the universe, but the Spanish destroyed it to build their cathedral. This event exposes a dark side of Mexico’s history. To learn more about this important cultural site, you can visit its ruins in Mexico City, which is located near the Zócalo.
The Templo Mayor, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1987, has been converted into a museum. The museum is divided into two sections – one which is indoors and the other which is an outdoor excavation site.
If you are on a budget and visiting Mexico City, you can see many of the ancient Aztec ruins at the excavation site without buying a ticket just by walking around.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Open 9am to 5:30pm daily
Do you recall me mentioning the cathedral constructed by the Spanish after they demolished the heart of the Aztec universe? That would be Mexico City’s Metropolitan Cathedral, which happens to be the biggest Catholic Church in the Western Hemisphere. Despite its controversial past, the beauty of this edifice cannot be denied. Interestingly, it took almost 250 years to complete its construction.
While you’re at the Zocalo, don’t miss the chance to see the stunning interior of the cathedral, which is just as impressive as the exterior. Inside, you’ll find two gigantic organs worth seeing. Keep in mind that photography is not allowed during masses, but you can visit anytime. Additionally, you can take an Instagram photo of the outside.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Open 10am to 6pm daily, closed Mondays | Entrance is 270 Mexican pesos for foreign tourists (you must buy in advance!)
By now, you might be acquainted with Frida Kahlo, and if you’re not, you’ll probably come across her paintings in various locations in Mexico. However, you may be unaware of her intricate personal life, such as her struggle with the adverse impacts of polio that weren’t visible to the public eye.
The Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as “Casa Azul” due to its blue exterior, is situated in her former residence and is dedicated to showcasing her life. While a few of her art pieces are on display, the museum mainly exhibits personal items, household artifacts, and memorabilia related to her relationship with Diego Rivera. One notable exhibit is her collection of dresses, designed to suit her unique body shape.
Expert Tip: To visit the Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City, it is recommended that you purchase timed-entry tickets several days in advance. You can purchase the tickets on this website.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Open 10:30am to 6:30pm daily | Entrance is free
There are three Soumaya Museums in Mexico City, but the main one is located in Polanco and features a modern, curved building. The collection includes a wide range of items from historic relics to modern art and sculpture. It’s recommended to set aside at least a few hours to explore the multiple floors, and make sure not to miss The Gates of Hell, a significant sculpture depicting a scene from Dante’s Inferno. The best part? Admission is free, making it a great activity to do in Mexico City without spending money.
📍 Google Maps | Website
While it may not sound thrilling to visit a monument in the middle of a traffic circle, the Independence Angel is a must-see attraction in Mexico City. Situated on Paseo de la Reforma street and constructed in 1910, this iconic landmark holds significant cultural significance. If you’re interested in photography, consider visiting at night to capture breathtaking shots of the lit-up monument.
📍 Google Maps| Website | Open 9am to 10pm daily | Entrance is 170 Mexican pesos
The Torre Latinoamerica skyscraper, which is only a few blocks away from the Palacio de Bellas Artes, provides an excellent viewpoint to appreciate the vastness of Mexico City. There’s a lot to see in Mexico City, and this observation area is the perfect place to take it all in.
The admission fee covers some museum exhibits, but the main attraction is the stunning of Mexico City. If you’re trying to save money and don’t want to pay the 90 pesos to go up to the observation deck, there’s a little café two floors down that offers the same amazing vistas.
📍 Google Maps | Open 8am to 4pm weekdays, 8am to 12pm Saturday and Closed Sundays
One of the best spots to take a photo in Mexico City is the ornate staircases at the Palacio Postal, but it can be crowded at times. While the building still functions as a post office, you can stop by to mail any packages you have and take a few minutes to appreciate the intricate artistry inside. It’s a great free activity to do in Mexico City.
📍 Google Maps | Website
I recently discovered Cityzen, a high-end bar and restaurant situated on the rooftop of Sofitel Mexico City Reforma – one of the tallest buildings in Mexico City – and it has quickly become one of my favorites. The views of the city during sunset and at night are breathtaking, and their weekend brunch is especially popular. Consider booking a table for an unforgettable experience.
📍 Google Maps | Website | 10am to 5pm daily, closed Mondays | Entrance is 40 Mexican pesos
If you’re a history lover visiting Mexico City, a visit to the Trotsky Museum is a must-do activity. The museum is situated in the former residence of Leon Trotsky, the Marxist revolutionary and political theorist who was assassinated in Mexico City in 1940 by Soviet agents. Located in the Coyoacan neighborhood, the Trotsky Museum is less crowded compared to the Frida Kahlo museum and provides a great opportunity to learn more about the life of this communist leader.
📍 Google Maps | Website
If you’re looking for the best cocktail bar in Mexico City, I highly recommend Licorería Limantour in Roma Norte. The skilled bartenders create amazing cocktails and there’s always a high energy vibe no matter which night of the week you visit. They also have a smaller location in Polanco, but it’s recommended to make reservations in advance.
📍 Google Maps | Website |
Terraza Catedral is a rooftop cafe with breathtaking views of the Zocalo, and reasonably-priced drinks. To get to it, you need to go to Mundo Joven Zócalo hostel and locate the rooftop. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy the spectacular city views on a sunny afternoon, and they have vibrant nightlife in the evenings.
Read also how to avoid getting altitude sickness from Mexico City’s high elevation.
| Website | Cost: 4 churros start at 93 pesos
A must-try in Mexico is the churro, a fried dough treat coated in sugar and served with different chocolate dips. For the best churros in Mexico City, head to Churrería El Moro, a well-known chain with multiple locations in the city.
Although it may be considered a touristy activity, visiting the scattered “CDMX” signs around Mexico City, such as in the Zocalo, is a fun and essential experience. Taking a photo of the sign is a must, as it’s an iconic symbol of Mexico City that you shouldn’t miss while visiting.
📍 Google Maps | Open 7am to 1am daily
The Casa de los Azulejos, also known as the House of Tiles, is an 18th century Baroque palace located in the downtown historic district. It now houses various shops and restaurants. While the courtyard interior is worth seeing, the real highlight is the blue and white tiles on the exterior which make for great Instagram photos. You can easily visit the House of Tiles alongside other popular attractions such as Palacio de Bellas Artes as it is just off Avenida 5 de Mayo.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Market open 10am to 7pm daily (closes 6pm Sundays)
If you want to buy local handicrafts or folk art, or even just a colorful souvenir from Mexico, you should visit the market at the Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela. It’s located near the historic center for your convenience.
If you visit Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela, you’ll see a row of stalls selling art and goods from various artists and vendors. They cater to locals and tourists alike. Most vendors accept credit cards, but if you have cash in pesos, you may be able to negotiate lower prices. Additionally, if you’d like to discover other unique markets, Sky has compiled a list of the top 11 markets in Mexico City. The list not only includes popular markets but also lesser-known ones.
📍 Google Maps | Open 24/7
If you’re looking to experience the energy of Mexico City, Plaza Garibaldi is a must-visit spot. Here, you can catch mariachi bands and explore several bars and shops. During the day, you can grab lunch and enjoy the music, or come at sunset to relax with a drink and more mariachi music.
Avenida 5 de Mayo is a significant pedestrian street in Mexico City, which is home to many museums, points of interest, and important tourist attractions on this list. In addition, there are various shops available along or near the street, including both larger retailers like H&M and smaller local vendors, all selling their products to passersby.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Open 8:30am to 9:30pm daily
Visiting the Central Library at UNAM in Mexico City’s Coyoacán neighborhood is a highly recommended activity. The library’s exterior is decorated with vibrant and striking murals that are representative of various periods in Mexico’s history – pre-Hispanic, colonial, modern, and the university’s own history. Additionally, the library’s architecture is worthy of appreciation, making it a great option for budget-friendly sightseeing in Mexico City.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Open 10:30am to 6:30pm daily | Entrance is Free
The Museo Sumaya family of museums includes a small but beautiful house museum located between Condesa and Roma. Although it may be less well-known, it is definitely worth a visit to stroll through the ornate interior and admire the art, furniture, and architecture. The museum was owned by Guillermo Tovar de Teresa, who lived a lavish lifestyle. Best of all, this is a quick and enjoyable free activity to do in Mexico City.
Below is a breakdown of my favorite areas to explore in CDMX. But if you want more details on each neighborhood, check out Sky’s longer guide to the best areas to stay in Mexico City.
📍 Google Maps |
The Roma Norte area in Mexico City is a trendy and cultural neighborhood that attracts many visitors. It is located around Avenida Álvaro Obregón, a large and lush avenue. This neighborhood boasts a variety of excellent dining options, ranging from upscale restaurants to taco stands. In addition, Roma Norte is known for its vibrant nightlife and is a popular spot for young professionals to unwind on weekends.
If I had to choose a neighborhood to stay in Mexico City, I would choose this one because it is located in the center of the city and is always lively even at night.
📍 Google Maps | Search Zona Rosa hotels on Booking
Zona Rosa is a vibrant neighborhood with many LGBT bars and nightclubs that play music until late on weekends. During the day, it has a sizable shopping district and is a popular destination for travelers due to its proximity to the historic center.
Condesa neighborhood in Mexico City has many beautiful parks to enjoy. If you like the West Village in New York City, you will enjoy walking along the leafy and tree-lined streets of Condesa. Whether you are staying in Condesa or not, visiting Parque Mexico is a great idea for a walk. Additionally, I recommend exploring the brunch scene at one of the many cafes in Condesa, like Que Seria de Mi.
If’re planning a longer visit to Mexico City, I recommend staying in Polanco, a peaceful upscale neighborhood located just north of Chapultepec Park. During my recent trip, I enjoyed the area’s luxurious hotels, great dining options, shopping centers, and museums, such as the Soumaya Museum.
Within Mexico City, Coyoacán can be seen as a city within itself. It boasts a unique historic center where visitors can stroll along cobblestone streets full of artisan markets, art galleries, street food stalls, and cultural performances. Additionally, the area is famous for being home to both the Frida Kahlo and Trotsky Museums. While Coyoacán is a bit of a distance from the city center, the journey there by Uber is worth it. Alternatively, those who have visited Mexico City before and want a new perspective may consider staying in Coyoacán.
Have you discovered what to do in Mexico City yet? This historic city offers a vast range of activities to explore, including options for history lovers, foodies, nightlife seekers, and nature enthusiasts. The adventure never ends!
It is my hope that I was able to assist you in discovering enjoyable activities to partake in during your visit to Mexico City!
Mexico City offers a variety of exciting activities including admiring the beautiful Palacio de Bellas Artes, exploring the ancient ruins at Teotihuacan, taking a scenic boat ride at the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco, or strolling through Chapultepec Park.
There are many great free activities to do in Mexico City. For instance, you can explore the vast Chapultepec Park, admire the intricate interior of the Palacio Postal, check out the Central Library, or discover the various neighborhoods throughout the city.
That’s the end of our guide on the best things to do in Mexico City. Let us know in the comments what you are most excited to do while in Mexico City. Also, make sure to check out our guides on Playa del Carmen, Valladolid, and Chichen Itza in case you plan to travel around Mexico. Have a great time exploring Mexico!
I recommend these travel resources for Mexico that I personally use:
🏨 Hotels: I have found that Expedia and Booking.com consistently have the best deals on hotels and resorts in Mexico. If you prefer to stay at a vacation rental, check VRBO that is usually cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!
✈️ Flights: To find the best flight deals to Mexico, I always use Kayak. Remember to subscribe to their price alerts for the travel dates you want. Another great alternative for flight deals is Expedia.
🚗 Rental Cars: I always use and highly recommend Discover Cars because it allows me to compare several car rental companies and view ratings on various factors such as overall value, pick-up procedure, agent efficiency, car condition, and total time taken.
🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation: For the fastest and easiest way to travel, I suggest arranging a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation. Honestly, no better way to travel from the airport to your hotel or resort.
🤿 Tours & Activities: For tours and activities in Mexico, I highly recommend using either Viator or GetYourGuide. These websites offer a full refund if you cancel your booking 24 hours before the start of the tour, and they also provide excellent customer service in case of any issues.
🚨 Travel Insurance: I always suggest purchasing travel insurance as a precaution before traveling, especially after a recent accident in a taxi in Mexico. For short trips, I recommend Travel Insurance Master, whereas for digital nomads, Safety Wing is a better option.
📷 Best Camera for your trip: I always carry with me a GoPro, It’s light, compact, takes great video and pictures, and most importantly, it’s waterproof! You just can’t go wrong with one. If you are interested in higher quality video and photography, I always carry with me on my trips and highly recommend the Sony A7IV which I think is the best travel DSLR Camera out there.
☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Remember to include a good sunscreen to protect yourself from the summer sun. I always use and suggest Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is vegan, reef-friendly, and cruelty-free.
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