Nature and Parks

In addition to its urban landscape, Mexico City is home to a variety of parks and natural sites that provide a relaxing break from city life. 

• Parque La Mexicana: 

 Located in the heart of Santa Fe, La Mexicana Park is a beautiful natural refuge surrounded by modernity. The relatively new park, designed by architects Mario Schjetnan and Victor Marquez, was built in only 13 months. In addition to the stunning main walkway, the park features a skatepark, an expansive dog garden, a gourmet terrace, a small amphitheater, and a few gardens for children to play. This is massive, with more than 2,500 trees and 70,000 square meters of grass designated for picnics and other activities. This park is the perfect spot to grab a tasty breakfast with your friends and enjoy a stroll around its many green areas.

• Bosque de Chapultepec Park:

The Bosque de Chapultepec is one of Mexico's largest city parks, measuring just over 1,700 acres. Located on Chapultepec Hill, the park serves as an ecological space in Mexico City, and it is often called Mexico City’s “lungs.” Here, visitors can spend a day visiting the park’s attractions, including the zoo and museums, while enjoying some beautiful views and a breath of fresh air.

Fun fact: During the pre-Columbian era, the area surrounding present-day Chapultepec served as a retreat for Aztec rulers. 

• Ajusco National Park See snow in Mexico City at the Cumbres del Ajusco National Park! One of the many national parks surrounding the city, this is a great getaway into forests and meadows of Mexico City. Hike to your heart’s content, or go with a guide!

Get outside the city:

• Desierto de Leones National Park

Located within city limits, but a ride away to the Sierra de las Cruces mountain range. This park is even known as the “oldest protected biosphere” in Mexico with beautiful forests, streams, and meadows. It is a lovely spot to come for a hike or picnic, though beware trails are not clearly marked with directions. 

•  Nevado de Toluca

About a two-and-a-half to three-hour journey from CDMX, take a day trip away from the city to see the fourth-tallest mountain in Mexico. Enjoy a lovely hike and sights that may take your breath away!

Political Climate and Safety

As with any destination, it is essential to consider the political climate when planning a trip to Mexico City. Here are a few key issues to be aware of: 

Mexico City is the seat of the federal government, making it a place where local and national politics are discussed like nowhere else in Mexico and where its residents are known for their involvement in socio-political movements. In recent years, there have been a variety of movements gaining national attention, including the feminist movement as well as AMLO’s populist movement. 

The 2024 election led to a significant shift in the Mexican political climate with the election of the first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum. Sheinbaum is a left-wing candidate from the National Regeneration Movement party (Morena), and has a previous background in environmental engineering before politics. 

Since Sheinbaum’s inauguration, there have been several initiatives and international relationships that have characterized her early presidency. Soon after her inauguration to office, she proposed several legal reforms to improve gender equality in the country, with a focus on reducing gender-based violence through policy. Additionally, her candidacy platform emphasized numerous environmental promises, including a goal to increase the country’s use of renewable energy in vehicles and public transit. She has also undertaken reforms to address the disappearance crisis in the country and combat drug cartels. 

There is a significant political divide right now between Morena and the “coalición PAN-PRI-PRD,” so it is essential to be aware of this when talking about politics. 

Current US-Mexico relations and the imposition of economic trade tariffs may also influence the recent political climate. The unknowns and volatility of the future of these tariffs may have an impact on Mexico’s economy, people’s confidence, and growth. 

Issues like femicide, corruption, education, the economy, crime, the disappearance crisis, and the drug war are all important topics of conversation within the political climate and recent elections. For instance, the past administration with Lopez Obrador has been criticized for failing to combat violence against women and the country’s high rate of femicide, which has risen astronomically since 2018.

Safety tips: 

Mexico City is full of energy, culture, and exciting places to discover. To make the most of your visit, just remember a few simple safety tips.

• Tap Water: Do not drink tap water in Mexico City. Always use bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Most hotels, restaurants, and cafes provide purified water.

• Transportation: Use authorized taxi services, app-based rides (like Uber, Didi, or Cabify), or official airport taxis. Avoid hailing cabs directly from the street at night.

• Pickpocketing: In busy areas like the Zócalo, public transport, and markets, keep your belongings close. A crossbody bag that zips shut is recommended.

• Neighborhood Awareness: Stick to well-known and central neighborhoods such as Polanco, Roma, Condesa, and Coyoacán, especially at night. Avoid poorly lit or unfamiliar areas after dark.

• Street Smarts: Don’t display expensive jewelry, watches, or electronics openly. Keep cash and cards split between different places on your person or in your accommodations.

• Public Transit: The metro is inexpensive and efficient, but very crowded during rush hour. Keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious in packed spaces.

• Health Precautions: Street food is delicious but choose stalls that are busy with locals (a good sign of freshness). It’s also advisable to avoid eating fresh salad unless you’re dining in an upscale hotel or restaurant because fresh produce needs to be thoroughly washed before being consumed and places such as taquerias, food stands and bars may not do this.

• Wash your hands or use sanitizer before eating.

If you keep these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy everything Mexico City has to offer and feel at ease while exploring

Bars and Nightlife

Mexico City is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, considered one of the best in Latin America. From bars and lounges that specialize in crafting delicious seasonal cocktails to restaurants offering fantastic food and a stylish ambiance, this city knows how to entertain a crowd. 

Image courtesy of GIN GIN KitchenBar

Recommended Bars, Clubs, and Restaurants:

As a massive international metropolis, the restaurant and bar scene in Mexico City is endless and buzzing. Take advantage of some tasty eats and unique bars in this fantastic city. With options from nearly every cuisine around the world, you’re bound to find something that strikes your fancy. 

With several branches in Mexico City, GIN GIN KitchenBar is a restaurant bar praised for its innovative mixology drinks and, as its name suggests, gin cocktails.

Handshake Speakeasy: Named one of the  bars in the world in 2024,  this establishment offers high-end and creative cocktails in a fun yet intimate setting. Make sure to secure a reservation to avoid the wait. Keep in mind that you’ll only have the table for an hour and a half, so it’s a good place to start the night, not end it. 

Salon Solin (Bar/Club) is a casual disco club in Roma Norte, offering a vibrant ambiance, skilled bartenders and featuring top DJs.

Departamento: Located in Roma Norte, this bar/club is a perfect place for a fun yet laid-back night. This is also a great place to meet both locals and internationals in an environment where you can both talk and dance. 

Nightlife Experiences and Rooftop Bars: 

If you want to enjoy a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience, consider visiting Toledo Rooftop. This trendy rooftop bar features fantastic views, tasty food, and sophisticated drinks. Toledo Rooftop is often described as a green oasis hidden in the midst of a busy city. With a cozy lounge overlooking the city's skyscrapers, a curated playlist, and a great atmosphere, this bar is a local staple. 

Another rooftop worth checking out is Ling Ling by Hakkasan. This renowned restaurant, situated in the heart of the city, is famous for its breathtaking views, Asian-inspired cuisine, and exceptional cocktails. 

Sens is an upscale, elegant nightclub located in Mexico City’s Santa Fe district, featuring international DJs, ensuring an excellent and lively evening for those looking to dance and enjoy some amazing beats. 

Insider Tips:

It’s essential to note that etiquette rules in Mexico differ slightly from those in the United States. Many bars and restaurants tend to have dress codes, so it’s essential to dress up and avoid wearing sandals, sportswear, and caps. Men may also be required to avoid wearing shorts. They may turn you away if you don’t fit their “requirements,” so make sure to wear heels or boots for women and avoid extremely casual wear for men. 

Many clubs and bars have cover charges and require a valid ID, so be sure to bring some form of identification and be prepared to pay the entry fee. 

Lastly, make sure that you have prepared a transportation plan in advance. Download Uber as a safe and affordable option for your late-night ride home, and check the rates before going out. 

Make sure to stay safe and enjoy an incredible night in Mexico City!

Activities and Attractions

Mexico City is a cultural wonderland where you can find little pieces of history in every corner. There are endless stories that have and will be told in this city, ready for you to discover. Mexico City is home to more than  150 museums, highlighting  topics such as art, history, and archaeology to more niche subjects, including toys, perfume, and pulque. Home to renowned cultural figures from all around the world, such as Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and even Leon Trotsky, the city will never stop adding fresh voices to the mix. Mexico City has something to offer every type of traveler, ensuring that none will be disappointed.  

Cultural Attractions

One of the most popular attractions in Mexico City is Frida Kahlo’s “Casa Azul.” The artist's iconic blue home, located in the historic neighborhood of Coyoacán, is open to visitors who can immerse themselves in Frida’s life. This was the home of Diego and Frida back in the 20th century, so you can be sure that every corner still preserves the same spark it had back then. This place is one of the most sought-after destinations (and it’s worth it), so make sure to book tickets at least one month in advance, as they are only sold online and usually sell out quickly. 

Travel Tip: If you don’t manage to get tickets to this in-demand experience, you can check out “Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo” located in San Ángel. 

Another iconic site in the city is El Palacio de Bellas Artes, where you will find murals painted all over the top floors by renowned Mexican artists, filling the palace's marble walls with history and beauty. . This building is popular for the architecture alone, adding an Art Nouveau touch to Mexico’s city center. This prominent cultural hub also hosts many exhibitions and theatrical performances, including the “Ballet Folklorico de Mexico. This performance will allow you to view the theater, which is home to a striking crystal curtain depicting Mexico City’s Popocatepetl volcano and Iztaccihuatl mountain.  You can buy your tickets in advance on their website for about US$4.50.

National Museum of Anthropology (Museo Nacional de Antropología) in Mexico City. 

Another must is the National Museum of Anthropology, where you will be taken back to Aztec times. This is perfect for history buffs, as the museum houses some of the most important archaeological and ethnographic collections in Mexico. Among its most iconic pieces is the Aztec Sun Stone, a massive carved basalt sculpture that once lay buried beneath Mexico City. The museum also showcases treasures from the Maya, Olmec, and other pre-Columbian civilizations, giving visitors a broad perspective on Mexico’s diverse and ancient history. Plan to spend at least half a day here; it’s one of the largest museums in the country, with exhibitions that span 23 rooms. Entry costs around US$5, and tickets can be purchased on-site.

Outdoor Activities

Even though walking around the city’s sights and restaurants can keep you entertained for days, there are also many outdoor activities in Mexico City that you may enjoy. If you are looking for ways to connect with nature while you are visiting the city, here is a list of popular spots that will stimulate all your senses:

Lake Xochimilco:

One of the most popular outdoor attractions in the city is Lake Xochimilco. Here, you can ride a trajinera, a small traditional boat that will take you around the lake and show you the historic sites. One of the most famous stops is La Isla de las Muñecas (the Island of the Dolls), where old dolls hang from trees and boats, creating a haunting atmosphere tied to local legends.

As you float along the canals, you’ll notice that the experience is as much a social outing as a sightseeing trip. Many visitors bring their own drinks and food on board, turning the trajinera ride into a festive picnic on the water. Others choose to buy from the vendedores ambulantes (floating vendors) who approach the boats selling snacks, grilled corn, tacos, and even micheladas or souvenirs.

Even though the area is full of energy and color, you should still be careful. Watch your belongings, bring small bills for buying things, and try not to drink too much since falling into the canal can be dangerous. It's safest to go with friends or join a group tour so you can enjoy the fun and stay safe.

Bazar Sabádo, San Angel:

If you’re in Mexico City on a weekend, El Bazar del Sábado in San Ángel is a must. This vibrant open-air market, held every Saturday, transforms the cobblestone streets of this colonial neighborhood into a hub of art, food, and culture. Local artists and craftspeople set up stalls offering a diverse range of items, from traditional ceramics and handwoven textiles to contemporary paintings and jewelry. It’s a perfect spot to pick up unique souvenirs while supporting Mexican artisans.

Beyond shopping, the atmosphere itself is worth the visit. Street performers, live music, and the colorful architecture of San Ángel give the bazaar a festive charm. The area is also lined with cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal or a coffee and “pan dulce” (sweet roll) after browsing the stalls.

Try to arrive early to avoid the crowds, and remember to bring cash. Some vendors take cards, but most prefer smaller bills. The bazaar is family-friendly, easy to walk around, and a great way to spend a Saturday enjoying Mexico City’s creative spirit.

Unique Experiences

If you want to be immersed in 18th-century royal architecture, you must visit the Chapultepec Castle. This castle is breathtaking and feels like it was pulled out of a European fairytale. Here, you can walk through the beautiful gardens and explore the inside of the castle. Interestingly, most of the inside structure has been adapted to accommodate the National History Museum, where you can learn Mexican history through the fine art pieces inside this gem. 

 Travel tip: The city views from this elevated structure are immaculate and perfect for taking breathtaking pictures

An experience unique to Mexico is visiting and watching a Lucha libre, a Mexican wrestling match! You can experience it   one of the weekly shows at Arena México on Mondays, Fridays, and Sundays. Tickets can be purchased online in advance through Ticketmaster. 

Top Three Things to do in Mexico City

Plaza de la Constitución – Known to everyone today as the Zócalo, this is the heart of Mexico City. Here stood the Halls of Moctezuma – the hub of the ancient Aztec world. Known as Tenochtitlán back then, it was the heart of their empire with immense imperial palaces, and impressive pyramids looming over an enormous square which was used daily as a marketplace and on feast days, was the scene of ceremonial dancing and sacrifices.  

Today, it is home to the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace - now the Presidential palace - which was built from the rubble of Moctezuma’s opulent residence to construct a palace for Hernán Cortés. Also located there, the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts), Templo Mayor Museum with artifacts from the ancient civilization, National Pawn Shop, and a host of shops and cozy cafés and restaurants.

Pyramids of Teotihuacán – located about an hour’s drive northeast of Mexico City, this is well worth the visit. A network of palaces and temples extending for miles, this vestige from Mesoamerica had tremendous religious, cultural and economic influence from around 500 AD to the 7th century until much of the city was burned. The Aztecs discovered it in the early 1300s and were so impressed with what they found that they named it, “Place Where Men Became Gods” and built a network of palaces and temples extending for miles, dominated by the Palace of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Several onsite restaurants and food stands dot the area, dishing up traditional Mexican fare and hot air balloon tours offer an exceptional way to view the site.

Bazaar Sábado – Shopping buffs should plan a visit to this colorful handicraft bazaar. Open only on Saturdays, it has been a staple of the charming San Angel neighborhood since 1960, luring visitors and residents alike with a host of unusual crafts, jewelry, paintings and more. Along the way you can select from many dining choices from street vendors, cozy cafés, and trendy restaurants.

Food and Drink

Mexico City is a culinary Disney World with endless options to choose from. Not only is the city known for its Michelin-starred restaurants such as Quintonil, which won third place on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, but it is also known for its delicious street food. Whether it’s a fine dining experience or a taco on the street, your palate will never be bored in Mexico City. 

Taco spot in CDMX. Matthew Stephenson. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0. 

Local Tacos and Street Food:

CDMX is known for having some of the best taquerias in the world. Here, you can expect to taste some of the best fresh tortillas, homemade salsa verde, and, of course, tasty carnitas. While there are many taquerias around the city, we'll list some of the most popular spots for both locals and tourists:

• El Remolkito del Sirloin: They are best known for their rotisserie-style tacos and amazing micheladas (beer-based drinks). Make sure to arrive with time to spare, as the wait is known to be quite long. You’ll find multiple locations, such as in La Roma and Pedregal. 

• Tacos La Once Mil: Although it’s a bit more expensive than your average taco stand, the quality makes it worthwhile. They use meats like ribeye, picanha, and sirloin, cooked on the trompo, blending casual and fine dining. This restaurant is located in the luxurious Lomas de Chapultepec. Please note that you may need to wait in line if you visit during rush hour, as this is a popular spot in the city. 

• El Califa de Leon: This taquería is best known for its gaonera taco, which features thin slices of beef loin served on handmade tortillas. The menu also offers bistec, rib, and pork chop tacos. In 2024, El Califa de León became the first taquería in Mexico to earn a Michelin star. This stand is situated near the city’s historical center, making it the perfect spot after a long day of museum visits. 

• Tacos Selene: This is the go-to late-night spot in Polanco. The al pastor is seasoned just right. Enjoy it in a taco, or try other al pastor dishes such as torta (soft roll sandwich), a volcán (crunchy tortilla with melted cheese), or a gringa (flour-tortilla quesadilla style)

Tacos Al Pastor from el Tizoncito. Daniel Roy. C BY-NC-SA 2.0. 

Recommended Local Cafes and Panaderias :

Mexico City boasts some of the finest pan dulce (Mexican pastries) you could ever imagine. One of their most famous Pastries and Coffee shops, “Panadería Rosetta,” located in the heart of La Roma, is a classic among locals and has recently gone viral on TikTok for their delicious concha de chocolate and café con leche. We recommend trying their guava and cardamom pastries. This bakery is also situated right next to its savory counterpart, “Rosetta”, a Michelin-star Mexican-Italian fusion restaurant, which is definitely worth trying. 

Another excellent option for coffee lovers is Tierra Garat, a Mexican coffee franchise that specializes in endemic coffee and cacao. If you go, you must try their coffee with a cacao drink named criollo, a Mexican take on the classic mocha.

• Other local cafes and panaderías to try: 

• Niddo Cafe Polanco: Incredible pastries, diverse coffee roasts, and mellow ambience.

• El Moro, Churrería: The best churros and hot chocolate you can find in Mexico City.

• Amïn: They have amazing cinnamon rolls and pastries, as well as other non-caffeinated drinks and a brunch menu.

Recommended restaurants:

If you're craving some delicious Mexican food, Azul Condesa is definitely worth checking out. Their signature cocktails and homemade tortillas are incredible. Meal prices range from US$7 to US$23. Another must-visit is the San Angel Inn Restaurant, as it represents Mexico City like no other. It’s a very traditional restaurant situated in a Hacienda that will delight your palate and eyes with excellent food and gorgeous views. Rosa Negra is a great option if you are looking for a delicious restaurant with an incredibly lively ambiance. Their empanadas and filet tacos are simply amazing. Lastly, if you are visiting Mexico City, you can’t miss trying out El Cardenal, a traditional Mexican restaurant best known for its delicious soups and its famous Chile Relleno.

Even though Mexico City is a fantastic place to eat Mexican food to your heart’s desire, it also has some of the most delicious cuisines from all around the world. For example, Rosetta, located right by the famous panaderia, is an Italian-Mexican fusion restaurant that is based on the “Mexican Ingredient”. It has a changing menu which depends on the ingredients that are in season and honors Mexico's vast array of regional produce. Contramar is another favorite as it blends Mexican cooking with seafood, adding a twist to the traditional cuisine. Fresh ingredients and a variety of cuisines make the menu at this site appealing to both locals and tourists. If you’re looking for a more casual spot, Cancino is a tremendous and trendy pizzeria with a variety of options. It is also open until 12 am in case of any late-night cravings. 

• If you plan on enjoying street food, which can be an amazing culinary experience, there are a few things to watch for. Choose stalls that are busy with locals, use hygienic food practices, and avoid those that appear to be left out in the sun. 

• When in CDMX, avoid drinking tap water. Stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. 

Accommodations

Mexico City, one of the largest cities in the world, offers a wide variety of accommodations. From the luxury hotels that surround one of the city's main avenues to smaller boutique-style hotels that will immerse you in the Spanish colonial era, travelers can be sure to find a place that checks all the right boxes. Some recommended neighborhoods for travelers are La Condesa, Roma, the historic center, Polanco, and Zona Rosa.

A glimpse at a street in the charming CDMX neighborhood. Fantastic Ordinary. CC BY-SA 4.0.

Budget

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option for your stay in Mexico City, there are many small inns and well-located hostels, especially in the Roma Norte and Condesa neighborhoods. 

Casa Lalique (US$57- $63 per night) is one of the coziest and most affordable hotels in the city. Its blend of traditional architecture with modern comforts and the lively Condesa neighborhood immerses its visitors in the colonial era. This neighborhood is home to many international residents, and the area is filled with numerous bars and restaurants, making it easy to meet people. 

If hostels are more your thing, check out Apapacho Hostel, located right in the historic center of CDMX. Dorm prices start at US$13 per night, which includes free morning coffee, free Wi-Fi and pod-style private beds. Travelers rave about this location’s rooftop terrace and great location. 

Another spot with great reviews is the Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel. Dorm prices start at US$23 per night. This hostel is located conveniently on a pedestrian street in the historic center.This is a great place to make as your home base, but beware that you will be slightly far from other neighborhoods Enjoy meeting other travelers on the hostel’s patio or at their restaurant/bar, or if you’re a digital nomad, you can enjoy specialized spaces built for remote workers as well as free Wi-Fi.. 

Midrange

There is also a wide variety of mid-range hotels that are highly rated for their excellent service and reasonable prices. Most notably, Hilton Mexico City Santa Fe (US$199 per night) has been praised for its incredibly comfortable and modern-looking rooms, as well as its superior location near Parque La Mexicana, where visitors can grab a tasty lunch or take a nice walk around the area. Just keep in mind that Santa Fe is a business hub on the city’s western edge, so you’ll need a rideshare or Metrobus (40–50 min) to reach the historic center, Roma, or other major sights.

Tucked onto a quiet street just steps from Paseo de la Reforma and the iconic Angel of Independence monument, Reforma Guest House offers the perfect pied-a-terre for your visit to the Mexican capital. The 19 nicely appointed rooms offer a mini-fridge-bar, flat screen TV with satellite channels, 24-hr fitness center, in-room safe, free Wi-Fi and other creature comforts. It’s also pet-friendly, should you opt to travel with your furry friend and a roof-top terrace provides a relaxing respite from busy sight-seeing. Rooms start at $220 per night.

An excellent option for travelers is the Downtown Mexico Hotel. This is located in the historic center of CDMX, with beautiful architecture, design, and art abundant in the area and within the hotel. This boutique hotel features 17 rooms and suites, boasts rave reviews and remains affordable, with a double room starting at US$200 per night. 

El Alfonsa hotel rates start at US$127 per night. This Condesa hotel pays careful eye to its beautiful dé

cor and design, with hotel guests raving about its cozy and tasteful vibes. Travelers appreciate this hotel’s location and its proximity to numerous excellent restaurants and cafes. 

Luxury

Some of the most renowned luxury hotel franchises have locations in the stylish Polanco neighborhood, as well as on the famous Reforma Avenue, best known for its incredible city views. 

The Four Seasons in Reforma is one of the most sought-after hotels in the city. With architecture that resembles a gorgeous palace and some of the tastiest breakfast and brunch buffet menus, this hotel is sure to offer an incredibly immersive experience. This has a higher price tag, with rates starting at around US$900 a night. 

The Ritz-Carlton is also a luxurious option, a 58-story glass tower situated above Chapultepec Park, offering views of the park on one side and the Angel of Independence on the other. Here, rates start at US$700 a night.

Suppose you would like to stay near the chic residential and nightlife neighborhoods of Polanco, La Roma, and Condesa. In that case, Casa Polanco offers 19 rooms and suites with a more “home away from home” vibe while still maintaining a luxurious feel. Located at one of the city's trendiest spots, you can walk around and explore both the must-visit travel spots and the local favorites. This luxury boutique hotel offers rates starting at US$971, yet you might find cheaper prices during the low season. Book ahead of time as these rooms fill up quickly. 

Travel Tip: For affordable options in Mexico City, consider checking Airbnbs near the Condesa, Roma, and Polanco neighborhoods, where you can find many spacious and beautiful apartments available for rent. Check availability in advance to get a good deal on your reservation price.