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About this guide
Mexico City, Mexico, is a capital city teeming with rich Indigenous history, Hispanic culture, and welcoming locals. Once the heart of the Aztec world, the city shares Indigenous heritage, Spanish colonial influence, and Afro-Mexican history shaped by welcoming capitalinos. Beautiful neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa invite travelers to wander art-filled streets and shaded parks. Visitors can enjoy world-class museums such as the National Museum of Anthropology to learn the country’s deep historical roots. Also known as CDMX, Mexico City has a diverse food scene featuring everything from street tacos to fine dining, serving flavors from across Mexico and beyond. The city presents a captivating blend of tradition and modernity that can enrich every traveler’s experience.
- Best time to travel: December to April (peak season), May to June and September to November (off season), July to August (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Central Time Zone (CST)
- Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN)
- Language(s): Spanish and English
- Noteworthy: Vive Latino (March), Mexico City International Film Festival (March), Mexico City Pride (June), Día de los Muertos (October-November), Zócalo Christmas Festival (December)
- Best for: Indigenous Aztec History, Authentic Mexican Cuisine, Outdoor Adventures, Wellness Retreat
Parlé: Key Phrases
- Hola, ¿cómo estás? — Hello, how are you?
- ¿Cuánto cuesta? — How much does it cost?
- Unos tacos, por favor — Some tacos, please
- ¿Dónde está el metro? — Where is the metro?
- ¡Órale! — Informal expression of excitement, surprise, or encouragement
Get Away: Getting To And Around Mexico City, Mexico
By Air
The best way to get to Mexico City is through Benito Juárez International Airport, the city’s primary gateway. There are numerous direct flights from the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Latin America. The main airport is conveniently located just a short drive from the city center and most accommodations.
By Car
Driving in Mexico City offers flexibility, but traffic can be intense, especially during peak commuting hours. Rental cars are available at the airport and throughout the city for easy access. Many travelers use GPS or a reliable map app to navigate the busier streets. If unfamiliar with local driving laws, opt for rideshare services or hiring a private driver.
By Public Transit
The Mexico City Metro is an extensive and affordable public transit system popular with locals and travelers alike. The extensive Mexico City Metro covers most major attractions and a single ride is quite inexpensive. The Metrobus, light rail, buses, and eco-friendly bike-sharing program called Ecobici are great for travelers to conveniently explore between neighborhoods.
Explore Mexico City, Mexico On Foot
Exploring Mexico City on foot is one of the best ways to soak in its architecture, street art, and everyday energy. Walkable districts such as Centro Histórico, Roma, and Condesa are filled with parks, cafés, galleries, and local boutiques just steps apart. Take safety precautions and stay aware of the surroundings, especially using crosswalks in high traffic areas.
Quick facts
Good For
Indigenous Aztec History
Authentic Mexican Cuisine
Outdoor Adventures
Wellness Retreats
Keep in mind
- Vive Latino (March)
- Mexico City International Film Festival (March)
- Mexico City Pride (June)
- Día de los Muertos (October-November)
- Zócalo Christmas Festival (December)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Mexico City, Mexico
For authentic Indigenous Mexican cuisine, Maizajo serves dishes made exclusively with high-quality Creole corn sourced directly from local producers. Specializing in the ancient nixtamal technique, the menu features unique dishes like mushroom birria, orange-marinated pork belly, and oxtail flautas.
The Plonk Restaurant serves a unique blend of Asian and Mexican flavors in an intimate open kitchen setting. Savor sea bass with matcha, spicy shrimp udon, and decadent chocolate cake, complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine menu.
Canton Mexicali offers Cantonese and Mexican fusion cuisine that beautifully intertwines different cultures and modern gastronomy. Dishes like crushed cucumber salad with chilies and dill, soft Dan Dan noodles, and sweet and sour orange chicken wings.
The gastro-cantina experience at Voraz offers pristine white tablecloths and a lively open kitchen to see chefs create mouthwatering dishes. The menu includes marinated arrachera, grilled pork belly tacos, salty churros with Cotija cheese, and creative cocktails.
In Colonia Roma, the Panadería Rosetta honors Mexican ingredients in each of its recipes, from delectable pastries and light lunches. Brewed local coffee complements the sweet treats, like the berry torte and the unique elote hot cake.
In Condesa, Farmacia Internacional makes the perfect casual spot for breakfast, coffee, and cocktails with cozy indoor and outdoor seating. The menu ranges from cinnamon rolls and scrambled eggs to small bites like crab cakes and fried chicken wings.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Mexico City, Mexico
Learn Mexican Embroidery With A Textile Designer and create an embroidered piece at the Franz Mayer Museum’s cloister cafe. Visit the Museum of Popular Art and explore the intricate techniques behind regional textiles and artisan tools.
This Authentic Mexican Hands-On Cooking Class And Market Tour takes visitors on a culinary adventure through Mexico City. Visitors shop at a local market before preparing a four-course meal paired with mezcal, craft beer, or wine.
Fly over Teotihuacan for breathtaking views of the ancient pyramids from above on the Balloon Flight and Breakfast In A Cave. Afterward, guests enjoy a unique breakfast inside a natural cave at La Cueva restaurant, followed by a visit to the Teotihuacan archaeological zone.
Take a trip Horseback Riding Along The Haciendas Route for a guided scenic adventure through historic 17th-century estates near Mexico City. Guests enjoy traditional meals at Rancho Santo Tomás and a private Charreria museum visit for an authentic glimpse of Mexico’s rich heritage.
Book the interactive Mezcal Mixology Masterclass where expert mixologists guide guests through crafting three unique mezcal-based cocktails. In the stylish Salón Rosario bar in Roma Norte, guests learn flavor-layering techniques tailored for new and experienced mezcal lovers.
Visitors take a unique canoe journey through Xochimilco’s serene wetlands on the Chinampas: Living An Ancient Culture tour. Experience hands-on cultivation techniques at a chinampa, recognized as a world heritage site, and support local community farming development.
Exploring the Waters of Tolantongo gives visitors a mini retreat, starting with the relaxing thermal pools with gorgeous views. Enjoy a peaceful lunch by the turquoise river and cap the day with cave exploration with breathtaking waterfalls.
Enjoy a guided walk through markets, cantinas, and street food stalls on the Historic Center Food Tour in Mexico City. Guests can learn about Mexican culture and history, perfect for a small group setting that feels intimate and local.
