Mexico City Travel Guide: Top Things to Do in Mexico City
- Apr 22, 2024
- 6 min read
Mexico City, officially known as Ciudad de México, is the capital and largest city of Mexico. This sprawling metropolis is a treasure trove of experiences, from awe-inspiring archaeological sites of the ancient Aztec to contemporary art hubs pulsating with creative fervor. At night, the city transforms into a nocturnal playground where you can savor culinary delights and you can explore the electrifying pulse of Mexico City's nightlife. Join me on a journey to historical landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods that define the essence of Mexico City's allure. This is your ultimate guide to exploring Mexico City's most enticing experiences.
Top Things to Do in Mexico City:
Hike the Teotihuacan Pyramids
Hiking the Teotihuacan Pyramids is a must do when visiting Mexico City. Teotihuacan is a UNESCO World Heritage site that was built between 100 AD - 700 AD. It is home to one of the largest pyramids in the world, The Pyramid of the Sun, and it remains a mystery who built Teotihuacan and the pyramids. The layout of the pyramids and the Avenue of the Dead suggests the city was carefully planned by its builders and was used for rituals. The Aztecs discovered Teotihuacan in the 14th century, and it later beach a major city in ancient Mesoamerica. You can take a guided tour of the pyramids to learn more about the history, or hike around the grounds.
Teotihuacan is located just over an hour outside of central Mexico City. The best way to get there from Mexico City is with a tour group, renting a car, or using Uber/Taxi. An Uber will cost $25-$40 USD each direction, and you should be able to easily find a driver to take you each way.
After you finish exploring the pyramids, stop by La Gruta for an authentic Mexican lunch in a cave. The restaurant is a 5 minute walk from the park gate next to the Museo de la Cultura Teotihuacan.
Learn about ancient civilizations at the Museo Nacional de Anthropología
Museo Nacional de Antropología, or the National Museum of Anthropology, is one of the most significant museums in Mexico because of its extensive collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the diverse range of ancient civilizations showcase, including the Aztecs, Mayans, and Zapotec. One of the most notable artifacts is the Aztec Sun Stone or Calendar Stone. The building itself is modern with an umbrella-like canopy and fountain over the central courtyard. If you want to learn more about the ancient civilizations of Mexico or admire the modern architectural masterpiece, then this is the perfect place to visit in Mexico City.
The museum is located inside Chapultepec Park, and is most eaily access by car or Uber/Taxi. If you are staying in the Polanco neighborhood, then you can eeasily walk over the the museum.
Explore the shops and restaurants on Calle Colima in Roma
Calle Colima is a charming street located in the Roma neighborhood, which is known for its bohemian and artistic atmosphere. You will find tree lined pathways and colorful street art as you wander this neighborhood. The street is lined with trendy cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries. I suggest going to Panaderia Rosetta, a lively cafe with outdoor seating and live music - try the Guava pastry! Exploring the Roma Norte neighborhood and Calle Colima is one of the top things to do in Mexico City that should not be missed.
Marvel at the contemporary architecture of Biblioteca Vasconcelos
The Biblioteca Vasconcelos, or the Vasconcelos Library, is known for its stunning and innovative architecture. The building has a vast, open, and airy design with massive concrete structures, bridges, and hanging walkways. It was designed by Mexican architect Alberto Kalach. The library includes a botanical garden with a variety of plants and tress, which adds a touch of nature to the urban environment. Because of the unique architecture, vast spaces, and combination of natural and artificial elements, the library is perfect for photo opportunities.
Shop for art at El Bazar Sabado in San Angel
El Bazar Sabado is a popular weekly market held on Saturdays in the San Angel neighborhood. The market showcases a wide range of handmade jewlery, traditional Mexican art, and unique artisanal products.This is the perfect place to find authentic souvenirs and art that reflects the cultural heritage and artistic style of Mexico. You will find many local artisans showcasing their talents in the park.
While you are in the neighborhood, make sure to spend some time exploring the streets of the charming San Angel. The neighborhoods feature beautiful colonial architecture on tree-lined cobblestone streets. San Angel is located just outside of central Mexico City. It is most easily accessible by car, which takes about 20 minutes.
If you would like to enjoy lunch in the area, the San Angel Inn is the perfect place. Try to make a reservation in advance to guarantee a seat in the garden courtyard.
Taste mezcal cocktails at a mezcaleria
The mezcal scene in Mexico City is vibrant and diverse. The city is home to numerous mezcalerías that serve a wide variety of mezcals from different regions of Mexico. Mixologists will create cocktails with Mezcal across the city, adding a complex and smoky flavor. Some of my favorite Mezcal drinks a mixed with flavors like pineapple, cucumber, and guava. The best Mezcal cocktail I had during my time in Mexico City was the cucumber cocktail at La Clandestina in Condesa. If you like your drinks on the sweeter side, I would recommend the avocado cocktail there. The Mezcal Stalk at Licorería Limantour in Polanco is another must try cocktail.
Wander through the Frida Kahlo House
The Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as the Casa Azul (Blue House), is the home where Frida Kahlo was born, lived, and worked. Frida Kahlo is one of the most iconic and influential artists of the 20th century. Her work is celebrated for its emotional intensity, vivid colors, and exploration of personal and cultural identity. The museum houses a significant collection of her paintings, drawings, and personal belongings. The rooms are preserved much as they were when she lived there, providing a glimpse into her daily surroundings, including her bedroom, studio, and garden. Visiting the Casa Azul provides a unique opportunity to step into the artist's world and gain insights into her life and creativity.
The museum is located in the Colonia del Carmen neighborhood of Coyoacán, which is about a 20 minute drive from central Mexico City. The easiest way to get to the museum is by car. Make sure you buy tickets at least one week in advance of your planned visit as the museum has a very limited daily capacity.
Swim with a view of the city from a rooftop pool
There are a multitude of high end hotels in Mexico City that feature scenic rooftop pools with a view of the cities landmarks. I would recommend spending a day lounging in the sun of the roof deck and taking a refreshing dip in the pool. Some hotels thats feature the most scenic rooftop pools are the Andaz by Hyatt, St Regis and the Four Seasons.
Have a drink at a speakeasy
Mexico City has a growing speakeasy scene, with several hidden lounges across the city that offer a unique themed and exclusive experience. My favorite was Handshake Speakeasy, known for its specialty cocktails that are carefully crafted using molecular mixology techniques. The cocktails appear clear and simple when served, but they each have their own complex and unique taste. My favorite cocktail at Handshake is the Once Upon In Oaxaca, which combines mezcal, mint, lemon, absinthe, and smoke.
Take a walk through Parque Mexico
Parque Mexico is a park in the center of Condesa, which is a neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets. Condesa has a vibrant cultural scene, which is also reflected in the park where you will often see people gathering to dance. The park is very dog-friendly and you will see many locals walking their dogs. It is is a nice place to take a break from the bustling city, and observe locals enjoying daily life. The park is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and art deco homes. After you take a walk through the park, have tea or lunch at one of the cafes surrounding the park.
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