Mexico City

Travel Guide

Welcome to Mexico City

travel to Mexico city

Mexico City is one of those unforgettable metropolis phenomenons, pulsating with contrasting cultural heritage and captivating travelers with its delightful mix of historic landmarks and sophisticated traditions. The main square alone has journalists scratching their heads with the massive Zócalo anchored by the Aztec floating city of Tenochtitlan, which at the time, was one of the largest cities in the world. And that’s all in the heart of the capital, fringed with beautifully unique neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma. If you’re into food, this is the city for you. If you’re a museum lover and a history buff, book your flights yesterday. This dynamic city offers an enchanting glimpse into Mexico's past and present.

RECOMMENDED HOTELS

LAS ALCOBAS, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Location: Polanco 
Polanco offers a blend of high-end shopping on Avenida Presidente Masaryk, gourmet dining at world-class restaurants like Pujol, and cultural attractions such as Museo Soumaya and Museo Jumex. The area is also home to green spaces like Chapultepec Park and Lincoln Park, providing ample opportunities for outdoor relaxation. Polanco's stylish architecture, pedestrian-friendly streets, and vibrant nightlife enhance its appeal, while its safety and convenience make it a desirable location for both residents and visitors.

Ignacia Guest House

Location: Colonia Roma
This is one of Mexico City’s most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods. Known for its eclectic mix of architectural styles, the area features beautifully restored historic buildings and offers a dynamic arts and culture scene with numerous galleries, museums, and street art. Colonia Roma is a food lover’s paradise, home to a variety of dining options ranging from traditional Mexican eateries to trendy international restaurants and modern food markets like Mercado Roma. The neighborhood boasts charming green spaces such as Parque México and Parque España, providing a serene escape. With its leafy, tree-lined streets, eclectic boutiques, vibrant nightlife, and bohemian vibe, Colonia Roma attracts a mix of artists, young professionals, and expatriates. The area is highly walkable and well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore its many attractions.

Circulo Mexicano

Location: Centro Histórico
This is a vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood known for its deep historical significance and stunning architecture. The area is home to iconic landmarks such as the Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Palace, as well as the ancient Templo Mayor ruins. Centro Histórico boasts a blend of colonial-era buildings with intricate facades and modern architectural additions. It is a cultural hub with numerous museums, galleries, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes. The neighborhood offers a diverse culinary scene with traditional eateries, upscale restaurants, and famous markets like Mercado San Juan. Centro Histórico is bustling with markets, shops, and street life, creating an energetic atmosphere. Well-connected by public transport and highly walkable, it attracts a mix of locals, expatriates, and tourists, contributing to its dynamic and cosmopolitan vibe.

  • Outdoor seating area with three black chairs and a wooden table, surrounded by greenery and purple flowers, with historic stone buildings in the background.

    Circulo Mexicano

  • View of a historic building's domes through a large window, with a concrete wall on the right side of the image.

    Circulo Mexicano

  • Rooftop pool area with wooden furniture, shaded seating, and cityscape view.

    Circulo Mexicano

  • A modern bedroom with blue walls features an open glass door leading to a lush green garden. Inside, a neatly made white bed is visible beside a small table holding a coffee machine, water bottles, and candles. Bright orange flowers in a blue vase add a touch of color.

    Ignacia Guest House

  • Modern living room with pink walls, large windows, red and purple sofas, a round brown chair, and unique wooden tables. Decorative pottery and textured ceiling.

    Ignacia Guest House

  • Cozy hotel room with orange walls, a double bed with white linens, bedside lamps, and dark curtains.

    Ignacia Guest House

  • Elegant bedroom with white bedding, decorative pillows, large windows with sheer curtains, and warm lighting.

    Las Alcobas

  • Elegant interior with a curved wooden staircase, large potted calla lilies, and a modern sculpture in a well-lit room.

    Las Alcobas

Ornate pipe organ inside a cathedral with intricate wood carvings and gold accents, set against a vaulted ceiling.

Private Transfer

Upon arrival at Mexico City International Airport, you will be greeted at the arrivals terminal and taken by private transfer to your hotel.

Mexico City

Sprawling and vibrant, Mexico City boasts nearly 1,700 distinct neighborhoods, each offering its own unique blend of charm, culture, and history. The city is a treasure trove of exquisite museums, world-renowned restaurants, historic sites, and a buzzing nightlife. As one of the largest and most populous cities in the world, it presents an endless array of attractions and experiences for travelers. The historic Zocalo, the city's main square, captivates visitors with the majestic Metropolitan Cathedral and the grand National Palace. Not far away, the ancient Aztec ruins at the Templo Mayor archaeological site offer a fascinating glimpse into Mexico City's rich pre-Hispanic past.

Historical Tour

Explore Mexico’s rich Meso-American, colonial, and revolutionary history in the historic center of its vibrant capital. The heart of modern Mexico City was once the epicenter of the Aztec world, Tenochtitlan. Begin at the stunning Bellas Artes Palace, adorned with vibrant murals by renowned Mexican artists. Visit the majestic Cathedral, a masterpiece of intricate architecture, and find tranquility in the serene Alameda Central. Marvel at the striking Correos Building before delving into the artistic wonders of the Munal. Conclude your tour at the National Palace, where the city’s architectural splendor and profound historical insights come together, offering a vivid portrait of Mexico's vibrant past and dynamic present.

DAY 1 | Welcome to Mexico City

RESTAURANTS

in Mexico City

Marmota is a reflection of the time that chefs Federico Patiño and Poppy Powell spent in the Pacific Northwest, known for its mountains, valleys, forests, and seas. Drawing inspiration from the natural abundance and dynamic culinary culture of the region, Marmota brings a taste of Puget Sound to the heart of Mexico City. With a focus on a wood-burning fireplace and communal dining, the menu emphasizes wild seafood, farm-fresh vegetables, and a variety of fermentations. The food and drink menus showcase a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship of farmers, foragers, winemakers, and artisans.

Blanco Castelar, situated at Emilio Castelar 163 within Casa Domit, boasts a unique dining experience in a Californian-style building designed by architect Shafick Kaim in 1939-1940. The interior combines classic elements such as an attached staircase, Solomonic columns, and Novohispanic-influenced ornamentation. Studio 240 contributed a modern yet elegant architectural touch. The restaurant prioritizes the quality and freshness of ingredients, coupled with expert culinary techniques. Blanco Castelar offers a sophisticated and distinctive atmosphere, making it a standout choice for those seeking a memorable dining experience in Mexico City.

Azul Condesa is a renowned restaurant nestled in the heart of Mexico City, celebrated for its exceptional culinary offerings that showcase the richness of Mexican flavors and ingredients. The restaurant, under the direction of Chef Ricardo Muñoz Zurita, is a culinary haven that seamlessly blends traditional Mexican gastronomy with contemporary flair. The vibrant and inviting ambiance complements the diverse menu, which features a meticulous selection of dishes representing various regions of Mexico. From meticulously crafted mole sauces to delectable seafood and innovative interpretations of classic Mexican dishes, Azul Condesa offers a culinary journey that reflects the essence and creativity of Mexican cuisine. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity, combined with a sophisticated atmosphere, makes it a cherished destination for those seeking an elevated and culturally resonant dining experience in Mexico City.

→ More like this.

Plates of tacos topped with chopped onions and cilantro, a bowl of soup, and lemon wedges on a table.

Food Tour

In Mexico City, two food worlds exist side by side: the restaurants and the streets. It can be hard to know which sidewalk grills, market stalls, taquerías, and cantinas to visit if you’re not familiar with the city. Our expert guide will whisk you away from the tourist traps and take you to places that our local resident guides know and love. We want you to connect with Mexico City in a profound way, by tasting the food that residents eat and enjoy. You’ll learn the food’s history, the ingredients, the how’s and the why’s. You'll learn everything you need to know about Mexico City, from subway navigation to street food, little cafes, bakeries and of course, the markets. Walk around the flowers, taste the best food, absorb the overwhelming chaos of my city, the food, the smells, and the people.

Guided Eclectic Tour

Start with Mercado de Artesanias La Cuidadela which has everything from loom-woven blouses to ceramics and ex-voto paintings. Hospital de Jésus Nazareno is the oldest hospital on the continent and, legend has it, the spot where the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés and Aztec ruler Moctezuma met for the first time in 1519. Though still a working hospital, it has a beautiful, lush courtyard and brightly colored mural. Stop by El Moro Churrería, ideal in the early evening when families, couples, and friends all go out for a taste of sweet fried dough and chocolate. Alternatively, Dulcería de Celaya is a sweet shop open since 1874 and dedicated to traditional Mexican confections.

DAY 2 | Mexico City

  • Steaming tamales wrapped in corn husks inside a pot, partially covered with a plastic sheet, emitting visible steam.

  • Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico City, with gardens and people

  • Taco with grilled beef, green salsa, lime wedge, and a drink in the background.

  • Two people weighing a large piece of chicharrón at a food stall, with jars of green sauce in the foreground.

Aerial view of ancient stone plaza structure with multiple rectangular sections and partial walls, surrounded by grassy terrain.

Day-Trip to Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan, a pre-Columbian Mesoamerican city, thrived as one of the largest and most influential urban centers in ancient Mexico during the first millennium CE. Renowned for its monumental pyramids, such as the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, Teotihuacan served as a cultural and economic hub, showcasing advanced urban planning and diverse multiethnic influences. Though its original inhabitants remain unknown, the city's legacy endures as a testament to the sophisticated civilizations that once flourished in the region.

DAY 3 | Mexico City

Museums

in Mexico City

Museo Nacional de Antropología
Pre-Hispanic cultures of Mexico
Highlights: The Sun Stone (Aztec calendar), the recreation of the tomb of Pacal the Great from Palenque, and the vast collections of artifacts from indigenous cultures.
Location: Chapultepec Park
It's one of the most important museums in the world for anthropology and is a must-see for understanding Mexico's rich pre-Columbian history.

Museo Frida Kahlo (La Casa Azul)
The life and work of Frida Kahlo
Highlights: Personal artifacts, paintings, and the preserved home where Kahlo lived.
Location: Coyoacán
This museum offers an intimate glimpse into the life of one of Mexico's most iconic artists, set in her vibrant former home.

Palacio de Bellas Artes
Fine arts, including visual arts, opera, and theater
Highlights: Diego Rivera murals, rotating art exhibitions, and performances in the stunning art nouveau building.
Location: Historic Center
It's a cultural landmark with a blend of visual and performing arts in an architectural masterpiece.

.

Museo Soumaya
European and Mexican art from the 15th to the 20th centuries
Highlights: Extensive collection of Rodin sculptures, works by Dalí, Van Gogh, and Rivera.
Location: Polanco
The building itself is a modern architectural marvel, and the collection is vast and varied, offering something for everyone.

Museo Jumex
Contemporary art
Highlights: Works by Jeff Koons, Damien Hirst, and exhibitions of cutting-edge contemporary art.
Location: Polanco
It’s one of the most prominent spaces for contemporary art in Latin America, with a focus on both international and Mexican artists.

Museo Nacional de Historia (Castillo de Chapultepec)
Mexican history
Highlights: Exhibits covering Mexico’s history from the conquest to the 20th century, including the castle itself, which was once the residence of Emperor Maximilian I.
Location: Chapultepec Park
The museum is housed in a historic castle with spectacular views of the city, combining history, architecture, and nature

Colorful boats on a canal with people and trees under a clear blue sky.

Southern Mexico City Tour & Xochimilco

Private guided tour of the tree-lined streets of San Angel, Coyoacán and the waterways of Xochimilco. Visit to Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul. For lunch, head over to Mercado Coyoacán for an authentic Mexican meal. At Xochimilco, you will explore the canals while floating on a colorful boat called a trajinera.

Art in Mexico City

Mexico City is a haven for art enthusiasts, with numerous world-class museums and galleries. The Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as Casa Azul, provides insight into the life and art of the iconic Mexican painter. The Palacio de Bellas Artes is a must-visit for its impressive architecture and remarkable collection of fine art, including famous murals by Diego Rivera. Additionally, the city hosts a vibrant street art scene, with colorful murals adorning its neighborhoods.

DAY 4 | Mexico City

Get in touch.