Mexico City is a vibrant metropolis packed with history, culture and an ever-evolving culinary scene. From ancient Aztec remnants to modern art museums, quiet colonial courtyards to buzzy markets, the city offers an unforgettable experience for cultural travellers. Allow plenty of time to discover the cool, colourful and creative things to do in Mexico City (Spanish: Ciudad de México; abbreviated CDMX).
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Is Mexico City Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! As one of the largest and most dynamic cities in the world, Mexico City blends a rich historical heritage with contemporary creativity. It’s home to world-class museums, stunning architecture, lush parks, and a diverse food scene. With countless cool things to do in Mexico City, visitors can dive deep into Aztec history, enjoy lively nightlife, and taste some of the best tacos on the planet.
Best time to visit Mexico City
There are two major factors weighing into when to visit Mexico City: weather and cultural events. The transitional seasons—spring and autumn–are cthe best times to visit Mexico City because they balance both considerations.
Weather
Mexico City is located at 2,240-m (7,350-ft) in elevation. This altitude tempers the its climate, yielding relatively mild seasonal variations. The most dramatic differences throughout the seasons are in cloud-cover and rainfall.
May through October, is wet, warm and often overcast. It rains most days, but generally for only part of the day. May is typically the hottest month with average highs of 26°C (80°F).
From November through to April, temperatures are comfortable through the day, with cooler evenings and partly cloudy skies. January is the coldest month with average highs of 22°C (71°F).
Cultural events
Festivities and events are highly concentrated in spring (March-May), and autumn (September-November). Spring cultural events include arts festivals, Holy Week and Easter. In autumn, holidays range from Dia de la Independencia (Mexican Independence Day) in September, through to Dias de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in early-November.
While holidays and festivals can be a wonderful cultural experience, note that during these times, hotels sell out quickly and prices are higher. Also, many State-managed sights will be closed on official holidays.
Is Mexico City Dangerous for Tourists?
Mexico City is generally safe for tourists who take precautions. Like any major city, CDMX has areas that should be avoided. Staying in well-known neighbourhoods such as Roma, Condesa, Polanco, Zona Rosa and Centro Historico will ensure a safer experience. Use ride-sharing apps, keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. For more travel safety and security tips, see this post.
Where to Stay in Mexico City?
Mexico City has a range of accommodation options for every budget. For a trendy experience, Roma and Condesa are perfect with their cafes, art galleries and nightlife. Polanco offers luxury hotels and high-end dining, while Centro Historico is ideal for those who want to be close to Mexico City’s main attractions.
How to Get Around Mexico City?
The city has a well-connected metro (subway) system that is both efficient and affordable. However, precautions should be taken against pickpockets. Also, avoid riding at peak hour when the Metro is crammed with commuters.
The Metrobus system is effective but slow, due to Mexico City’s notorious traffic. If you’re on a budget and have plenty of time, it is an option worth considering.
Ridesharing apps like Uber and Didi are also widely used. Rideshare is a safer (tracked) option than taxis, that doesn’t require any Spanish language skills or negotiation of rates.
Walking is a great way to explore certain areas, like those mentioned above: Roma, Condesa, Polanco, Zona Rosa and Centro Historico, as well as Coyoacán and San Ángel.
The Best Things to Do in Mexico City
Zócalo and the Historic Centre
The heart of the city, the Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución), is a must-visit. Surrounded by stunning colonial-era buildings, it includes the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. Nearby, Templo Mayor, contains archaeological remains of the Mexico City’s Aztec roots.
Tip: Take a pay-as-you-wish walking tour of the key sights around Centro Historico when you first arrive in CDMX, for helpful orientation and historical context around this area of the City.
Torre Latinoamerica
On a clear day, get a top-down view over CDMX from Torre Latinoamerica. From the 44th floor you can see for miles in all directions including the ring of volcancos that encircle the City. I particularly like the the Torre Latinoamerica observation deck because its high enough to capture the view, but low enough that you can still pick out the details of individual buildings. It’s is open 9am-10pm and will set you back MXN100 for adults (approx. USD5).
Chapultepec Park and Castle
Chapultepec Park (Chapultepec meaning Grasshopper Hill in Nahuatl) is one of the largest city parks in the world, twice the size of New York’s Central Park. The Park offers a Botanic Garden, museums, and the stunning Chapultepec Castle. Once an imperial residence, the Castle now houses the National Museum of History and offers panoramic views of the city.
National Museum of Anthropology
Take a deep dive into Mexico’s rich indigenous history, at the National Museum of Anthropology located in Chapultepec Park. This museum is home to the famous Aztec Sun Stone and colossal Olmec heads. It’s a must for history buffs looking for what to see in Mexico City. Interpretative signage is inconsistently translated to English, so renting an audio guide is very helpful for getting the best out of this museum.
Hint: Museums in Mexico are generally closed on Mondays, and are usually free for Mexican citizens and residents on Sundays which makes them busier. Plan your itinerary accordingly.
Coyoacán and San Ángel
These affluent, bohemian neighbourhoods are full of artistic charm and architecture. La Casa Azul, Frida Kahlo’s childhood home, and Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, are located in this part of Mexico City. Plus, there is the Leon Trotsky Museum, and a great market to grab a bite—Mercado de Coyoacán. On Saturdays in San Ángel, Sabada Bazaar promotes artisan design and craftmanship from across Mexico. You could easily make a day of it in these two neighbourhoods.
Tip: La Casa Azul has become hugely popular in recent years. Ensure you secure tickets in advance. Get a preview and more practical tips for your visit here.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
A masterpiece of architecture, this cultural landmark hosts performances, art exhibitions, and murals by Diego Rivera and his contemporaries. Art Nouveau on the outside and Art Deco on the inside, this building is fantastic from every angle. The murals and art exhibits inside Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts) make it worth the small ticket price for a peek inside. Note, you must pay a little extra to take photographs of the interior.
Hint: Directly opposite the Palacio de Bellas Artes is a Sears. On the 8th floor is a coffee shop with a wonderful view across the plaza and landmark building. You must order something to get a seat. When it is busy, the staff will do their best to rotate you into a prime position as people come and go.
Museo Soumaya
This private art museum owned by Mexican billionaire, Carlos Slim, is housed in a custom, contemporary building that is art in its own right. The collection ranges from works by Mexican artists such as Rufino Tamayo and Diego Rivera, to European artists including de Vinci, Dali, Picasso, Renoir and Monet. Most notable is the largest collection of Rodin sculptures outside France.
The collection feels a little like incongruous, like Slim went around buying up the castoffs of other big Museums or whatever he was really into at one moment or the next. The curators have done their best to group pieces into more meaningful themes. At the same time, it’s a very surreal and interesting walk-through that art-lovers should make time for—it is free to enter afterall.
Things to Do in Mexico City at Night
Lucha Libre Wrestling
For an exciting night out, watching a Lucha Libre match is one of the coolest things to do in Mexico City—or so they say. I don’t get it, but if you like a bit of pretend biffo (like WWE), then this will be right up your alley. The high-energy atmosphere and masked wrestlers create an unforgettable experience at Arena México.
Mariachi at Plaza Garibaldi
Visit Plaza Garibaldi for live Mariachi performances in the evening. Here, Mariachi bands gather and make their rounds at bars and restaurants where you pay for them to play. Unfortunately, it’s can become a free for all. Two or more bands could be playing right next to each other, and it ends up being somewhat cacophonous. But it’s an experience—I’ll give it that! Importantly, Mariachi is so culturally unique and significant it is included on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.Rooftop Bars and Fine Dining
Mexico City boasts a vibrant nightlife, from rooftop bars with skyline views to world-renowned restaurants like Pujol and Quintonil. Whether sipping mezcal or enjoying modern Mexican cuisine, the city’s dining scene is top-notch.
Ballet Folklórico de México
For an enchanting cultural experience, get yourself tickets for the Ballet Folklórico de México. The ensemble was established in 1952 by Mexican ballet choreographer, Amalia Hernández. For over 70-years, it has performed music and dance inspired by various regional and historic cultures of Mexico.
The Ballet Folklórico are generally based at the Palacio de Bellas Artes. Though each winter, they perform a limited outdoor season in front of Chapultepec Castle. It is a dazzling showcase of Mexican culture, whichever venue you experience them.
Day Trips from Mexico City
Teotihuacan Pyramids
A trip to Teotihuacan is one of the best things day trips outside Mexico City. This vast archaeological site features the Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon, the mysterious projects of a once-thriving ancient civilization. Arrive early to avoid crowds, hire a guide and explore the Avenue of the Dead at your own pace. More practical tips for visiting Teotihuacan can be found here.
Xochimilco and the Floating Gardens
For a unique experience, head to Xochimilco to ride the colourful trajineras (boats) through the ancient Aztec canals. This UNESCO-listed site preserves a glimpse of pre-Hispanic agricultural techniques and is a lively spot with music, food, and drinks.
Xochimilco’s canals are the last remnants of the ancient Aztec canal system. A boat ride here is a colourful experience with floating food vendors, live Mariachi bands, and a festive atmosphere. Go early on a weekday if you want a relaxing float, or choose a weekend for a more spirited (in more ways than one) atmosphere.
You must rent the entire trajinera (boat), which works if you have a large group to split the cost and are skilled in negotiating in Spanish. Solo travellers, couples and small families are better off jumping on a small group tour. Look for one that provides transport from Mexico City and includes lunch, such as Gaby Experiences.
Tip: Go prepared with a Mariachi song to request. Surprise and delight your band by not choosing Guantanamera or La Bamba.
Monarch Butterfly Sanctuaries
Between December and February, one of the coolest day trips from Mexico City is visiting the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve. Located a few hours from the city, this UNESCO-listed sanctuary is home to millions of migrating Monarch butterflies through the winter. Even better… take a couple of days out to experience this breathtaking natural spectacle – more details here.
Mexico City is a dynamic, multifaceted city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and an endless list of must-do experiences. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, indulging in its food scene, or enjoying its lively nightlife, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Mexico City. With so much to offer, it’s a destination that demands more than just one visit! If you only have 3-days to visit, get my suggested itinerary to help you narrow down the plethora of options.
Peace, love & tacos,
Madam ZoZo
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