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Still on the fence about visiting Mexico City? Check out these 15 inspiring reasons why you should visit Mexico City at least once. #MexicoCity #Travel #Mexico

Why Visit Mexico City – 16 Epic Reasons Why You Need To

Last Updated on January 22, 2024 by Soumya

Why visit Mexico City? Is Mexico City worth visiting? These are some of the questions I pondered over for long before finalizing my trip to Mexico.

Guess, what did I discover? Not one, not two, but 16 amazing reasons to visit Mexico City.

Whether you are a lover of heritage and culture, a foodie, a shopping enthusiast, or a nature seeker, Mexico City has something for everyone.

At the historic center , you can walk through a thousand years of history , gorge on the most delicious tacos , enjoy a mariachi performance, and gaze dumbstruck at stunning views from Torre Latinoamericana.

Venture a little further and you’ll discover the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan steeped in mystery, an ingenuous agricultural system in Xochimilco , and the mind-boggling migration of monarch butterflies.

With art at every corner, an eclectic collection of museums, and a culture enriched by multiple civilizations, Mexico City inspires wanderlust in every traveler.

In my opinion, Mexico City is one of the most versatile places in the world. CDMX has everything a traveler’s heart desires except probably beaches (I would go to Cancun for that)! That’s why it is such an amazing place to add to your Mexico bucket list .

If you are still on the fence about why you should visit Mexico City, you should definitely go ahead and read these 16 major reasons that inspired me to plan my Mexico City trip.

If you have already decided about visiting, you should still read on to see if there is anything new that catches your eye. Trust me, there are a hundred amazing things to do in the Mexican capital.

Table of Contents

16 Epic reasons to visit Mexico City

Still on the fence about visiting Mexico City? Check out these 15 inspiring reasons why you should visit Mexico City at least once. #MexicoCity #Travel #Mexico

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this post. This will be at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help me keep this website up and running. Thanks for your support!

Walk through centuries of history at Downtown Mexico City

My favorite part of Mexico City is its historic downtown , the exact place that saw the rise and fall of the Aztec Empire , the coming of Spanish conquistadors, and the formation of a free Mexico.

In short, the historic center is where you can take a walk through all of Mexico’s history.

Metropolitan Cathedral in Mexico City

Begin your day at the Zocalo, head to the ruins of Templo Mayor – the religious epicenter of the Aztec civilization, marvel at the architecture and the Black Christ of the Metropolitan Cathedral, see the murals of the National Palace , and enjoy an artsy tour through the Palace of Fine Arts.

There’s so much to do at the historic center that you can spend one whole day wandering through the streets here.

There’s art, history, architecture, shopping, green parks, and great tacos – right in the heart of the city.

One of my top reasons to visit Mexico City – Explore the Historic Center.

✦ Pro Tip : Have I convinced you to visit Mexico City already? Then, check out our guide for Mexico City’s Historic District and the 20 best things to do there.

Discover ancient Mesoamerican civilizations

History has always been a big part of my travels. In fact, history is what I usually travel for.

Traveling through Mexico has always been extremely rewarding especially because of the number of ancient civilizations that have left their mark on this country.

Mexico City is one of my favorite places in Mexico because it has been home to a number of pre-Columbian civilizations.

The Spaniards built Mexico City on the remains of the Aztec capital city of Tenochtitlan.

View of Pyramid of Moon from the top of Pyramid of Sun

The massive pyramids of Teotihuacan, from an ancient civilization of more than 2000 years ago, are just around the corner.

The ruins of Tula (only a day trip away) provide a deep insight into the lives of Toltecs.

In short, Mexico City is where you can learn a lot about the ancient Mesoamerican civilizations.

If you are a history buff like me, you would definitely want to visit Mexico City for all the history this place has to offer.

📖 Related Read: If you love learning more about pre-Hispanic civilizations, check out our post on the best ancient pyramids in Mexico and the people who built them.

Unravel the mysteries of Teotihuacan

Early morning balloon flight over Teotihuacan Pyramids in Mexico City

I had always imagined Teotihuacan to be of Aztec origin. But I was thoroughly surprised when I found that Teotihuacan was around long before the Aztecs came to the Valley of Mexico and built a home there.

The Aztecs built their capital at Tenochtitlan in the 1300s. The Teotihuacanos were around since 200 BCE! Wow! That was quite a revelation for me!!!

While digging through ancient history, I found that Teotihuacan was steeped in mystery.

Because of the absence of a written script, nobody knew much about the Teotihuacanos and how their city met a devastating (and mysterious) end in the 7th century.

Where did the Teotihuacanos go? Nobody knows.

What did they leave for us to see? Massive pyramids, cryptic murals, and secret chambers!

Read my post on the 10 intriguing facts about Teotihuacan to learn more about this illustrious pre-Columbian civilization that literally vanished without a trace.

I talk about Teotihuacan here because the pyramids can be easily visited on a day trip from Mexico City .

Get here early in the morning for a hot air balloon ride , walk through the Avenue of the Dead, climb the Pyramid of the Sun, do a mural tour, and wrap up at the archaeological museum.

One of my top reasons to visit Mexico City – Learn about the ancient Teotihuacanos.

✦ Pro Tip : Planning to visit the pyramids of Teotihuacan? Check out our epic guide for planning the best Teotihuacan day trip from Mexico City .

Learn all about Aztec history

Aztec disc at the National Anthropology Museum in Mexico City

Of all the ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, Aztec is the one you can truly deep dive into in Mexico City.

There are so many Aztec ruins in and around Mexico City including the ruins of their capital city, Tenochtitlan, right in the middle of the CDMX city center .

At El Zocalo, the main square, you can still see the ruins of Templo Mayor , a double pyramidal structure that was literally the religious epicenter of the Aztec Empire.

Not very far away are the ruins of Tlateloco which are a part of the Plaza of 3 Cultures that depicts ancient Aztec, colonial Spanish, and modern Mexican architecture.

The archaeological site of Malinalco features extensive monolithic structures which are one-of-their-kind in Mexico. And Tenayuca is the place where Aztecs conceived the double pyramid that is unique to their civilization.

In short, you’ll love Mexico City if you are into the Aztec people, their history, and their culture.

If you are still not sold on the Aztec bit, read my next point on the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco , a true engineering marvel created by the Aztecs.

✦ Pro Tip : Want to learn more about the Aztecs? Check out the best Aztec ruins that you can visit in Mexico City .

See the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco

Colorful trajineras in Xochimilco, Mexico

The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco in southern Mexico City are a unique UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Xochimilco’s floating gardens are the last vestiges of an ancient, innovative agricultural system that the Aztecs created in early 14th century.

When the Aztecs built their capital city on Lake Texcoco, they did not have a lot of land to cultivate crops. There was just lake water everywhere around them.

To overcome this problem, Aztec farmers started reclaiming land from the lakes and cultivating crops on artificial islands called chinampas.

The chinampa system was incredibly efficient and highly productive . It fed more than 250,000 people in the Aztec Empire.

I write about the chinampas on BBC Travel and how the system continues to feed Mexicans even today.

The chinampa system has vanished now but a fraction of it still survives in Xochimilco.

Here, you can enjoy a traditional boat ride through the agricultural canals, relish local food, and dance to the tunes of loud Mariachi music. This makes Xochimilco one of the most popular day trips from Mexico City .

Imagine finding a bit of an ingenious agricultural system that is more than 700 years old and still works? An agricultural system that is truly an engineering masterpiece ?

This is one of the major reasons why I would visit Mexico City . What about you?

One of my top reasons to visit Mexico City – See the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco.

✦ Pro Tip : Keen to find out more about the floating gardens? Read my post on the ancient chinampas of Xochimilco .

Step into glorious architectural spaces

Courtyard of National Palace with a view of Diego Rivera murals on the right

Mexico City is all about glorious architecture – ancient, colonial, and contemporary.

Apart from the Historic Center, there are other architectural masterpieces in Mexico City that you should definitely visit.

Mexico City is home to Casa Luis Barragan, a contemporary residence that is also a UNESCO world heritage site.

At the Plaza of 3 Cultures, you can see architecture from all three periods – ancient, colonial, and modern.

La Roma is a trendy neighborhood that has Neo-Colonial mansions and features distinct European styles.

The eclectic Frida Kahlo mansion with its cobalt blue walls is a sight for sore eyes.

And so are the museums of Mexico City with their unique designs. Step into the National Anthropology Museum , Museu Soumaya , and Museu Tamayo to see what I mean.

✦ Pro Tip : Fan of good architecture? Check out the 15 famous architectural landmarks in Mexico City.

Feast on art in Mexico City

Mural at the National Palace of Mexico City representing a Mestizo child

Are you an art connoisseur? Then Mexico City is the perfect place to be.

There’s a lot of art to be seen in the Mexican capital including extensive murals, contemporary art galleries, and quintessential street art.

Murals are a way of life in Mexico City. You’ll find murals depicting various stages of Mexican history and the country’s social and political environment.

Mexico City is home to amazing paintings by Mexico’s top mural artists, Diego Rivera, Jose Clemente Orozco, and David Siqueros.

Take this muralist art semi-private walking tour with a knowledgeable tour guide .

Or, explore the murals on your own at some of the most historic buildings in the city such as the National Palace, UNAM Central Library, and Diego Rivera Museum.

Step into the contemporary art gallery of Kurimanzutto. Spot the best street art in the neighborhoods of Roma and Condesa.

I am sure the art of Mexico City will keep your itinerary brimming with the most exciting things to do.

✦ Pro Tip : Check out our Mexico City National Palace Visitor’s Guide to find out how you can do a guided tour of Diego Rivera’s murals.

Walk in the footsteps of Frida Kahlo & Diego Rivera

Casa Azul - Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacan

Since I am talking about art, I cannot miss talking about the two stalwarts of Mexican art – Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera – that once called Mexico City their home.

While Diego Rivera was a well-known persona in the Mexican muralist movement , Frida Kahlo was a renowned portrait painter. She was especially famous for her self-portraits.

The two were in a tumultuous relationship with each other that lasted until Kahlo’s death in 1954.

Even though their relationship was strange and often detrimentally romantic, their paintings were some of the best that the country ever produced.

You can catch glimpses of their art, visions, and personal lives at La Casa Azul – Frida Kahlo’s residence which has now been converted into a museum and at Diego Rivera Museum .

✦ Pro Tip : Visiting Casa Azul? Check out how to get tickets to Frida Kahlo Museum even when sold out.

Pay your respects at the Basilica of Guadalupe

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a Roman Catholic church that is one of the main religious centers of Mexico.

It is believed that the apparitions of the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Juan Diego here. The church now houses the cloak of Saint Juan Diego.

Millions of devotees visit the basilica every year with the highest number of people thronging the church on 12 December, the Feast Day.

In fact, the Basilica of Guadalupe is one of the most visited churches in the world.

Gorge on delicious Mexican food

Tacos in Mexico City

I love Mexican food. Tacos, churros, mole, and quesadillas can make me drool any time of the day, anywhere in the world!

There’s just so much to eat in Mexico City .

From the famous street tacos to exotic tamales and cheese-free quesadillas – you’ll find yourself drowning in Mexico City’s never-ending list of foods to try.

The city is an absolute haven for foodie travelers.

No wonder, food tours like this one and cooking classes like this one are some of the most popular Mexico City tours .

I still remember my first foodie experience in Mexico City which was a plate of chicken cooked in a distinctively chocolaty sauce called “mole”. Ever since I have kept going back for more.

Food is surely a delicious reason to visit Mexico City.

One of my top reasons to visit Mexico City – Gorge on tacos.

Hop through numerous museums

Stained Glass panels at Chapultepec Castle

One of the most interesting facts about Mexico City is that it is home to countless (more than 180, it seems) museums including a number of free ones.

There are museums dedicated to history, art, architecture, cinema, toys, and even chocolate.

Among the most popular museums in Mexico City is the Anthropology Museum which has a huge repository of Pre-Hispanic artifacts.

There is Palacio de Bellas Artes which houses a wonderful collection of fine art. The museum and palace at Chapultepec are stunning.

And of course, La Casa Azul , once Frida Kahlo’s home and now a gallery, is the most beautiful place to visit in CDMX.

Day trip to fascinating places

Author at Cholula Mexico

Mexico City makes for a wonderful springboard for day trips around the town.

There are so many wonderful places to visit near Mexico City that I had tons to do even after checking off everything from my CDMX itinerary .

Whether it is visiting the famous pyramids of Teotihuacan , strolling through colonial lanes in San Miguel de Allende, or trying culinary marvels of Puebla, there’s something for everyone in CDMX.

The best part is that most of these places are easily accessible by public transport . If not, there are wonderful tours to take care of you.

My top picks for Mexico City day trips are Teotihuacan , Xochimilco , Historic Center of Puebla , and the Tula Pyramids .

Nature enthusiasts will love the Monarch Butterfly Reserve and the Tolantongo hot springs .

📖 Related Read : Find more interesting day trips from Mexico City here .

Listen to Mariachi music

Mariachi band performing Cielito Lindo at Xochimilco

Mariachi is a traditional music form that evolved in the Mexican countryside sometime in the 18th century.

It was all about celebrating the people of Mexico: their joys, struggles, and triumphs. Typical instruments used are violins, guitarrons, and harps.

Even today, Mariachi is a big part of life and celebrations in Mexico.

And, you can experience this nowhere better than at the iconic Garibaldi Square in Mexico City.

Plaza Garibaldi is a Mecca for Mariachi lovers and you’ll love seeing a Mariachi variety show here.

See the largest monarch butterfly migration

Author's son at Monarch Butterfly Reserve near Mexico City

When in Mexico City, you can witness the largest monarch butterfly migration in the World Heritage Biosphere Reserve located on the border between Michoacan and the State of Mexico.

The butterfly reserve is only 60 miles away from Mexico City and makes for a wonderful day trip for nature lovers as well as families with small kids.

Every year, thousands of monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico from the USA and Canada between November – February. They make the oyamel fir trees of the butterfly reserve their home and flutter as the sun warms up the forest.

To be able to see this butterfly migration is the experience of a lifetime. When I first visited the Monarch Butterfly Reserve , it was with my 3-year-old son and he was awestruck by this beautiful spectacle of nature.

Hike through volcanoes

Popocatepetl Volcano in Mexico

Adventure lovers will be glad to hear that there are several volcanoes to scale near Mexico City.

The Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt or Sierra Madre is only a few hours away from the hustle and bustle of the Mexican capital. Needless to say, this place presents exciting mountaineering opportunities for hikers.

Two of the most popular volcanoes that hikers scale are the Iztaccihuatl and Nevado de Toluca .

Join a tour of any one of them and be rewarded with the most amazing hikes and views from the top.

Enjoy everything without breaking your bank

Author at Metropolitan Cathedral in Mexico City

The best part about Mexico City is that it is cheap and you can easily plan for a budget trip here.

It easy to get delicious street food that’s cheap, visit a lot of churches and museums for free, travel on public transport, and stay in a hostel or budget accommodation that won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

You can even do a free but wonderful walking tour of the historic center .

Isn’t that enough reason to visit Mexico City already?

Why visit Mexico City – Travel FAQ

Mexico City is absolutely worth visiting because it is full of history (umpteen number of UNESCO sites in and around the city), is home to several wonderful museums and art galleries, is a haven for architecture lovers, and is the best place to dig into tacos and listen to some traditional Mariachi music.

Mexico City is a popular travel destination in Mexico now because of its numerous historical landmarks, rich culture, stunning mural art, amazing food, pleasant weather, and wonderful shopping opportunities. It attracts travelers of all kinds including history enthusiasts, art connoisseurs, foodies, and nature lovers.

Mexico City is special because it stands on the ruins of an ancient Aztec capital city that was built on a lake. Mexico City was the capital of New Spain for 300 years and is actually the oldest, continuously-inhabited city in the Americas. It has the largest number of museums as well as the highest number of taxis in the world!

Yes, Mexico City is very good for tourists because it is home to several amazing museums, beautiful palaces and mansions (it was once called the City of Palaces), and numerous world heritage sites that can keep travelers busy for days.

Mexico City is the chaotic yet beautiful capital of Mexico that is an amazing place to visit. With centuries of history, delicious food, an eclectic collection of architectural masterpieces, and lots of local cultural practices, Mexico City makes for a wonderful travel destination.

Need reasons to visit Mexico City? Pin this for inspiration!

Still on the fence about visiting Mexico City? Check out these 15 inspiring reasons why you should visit Mexico City at least once. #MexicoCity #Travel #Mexico

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Let's Travel To Mexico

Is Mexico City Worth Visiting? Tips from A Local

Mexico city skyline at night

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of those links, I may earn a commission at zero cost for you. Please see my disclaimer policy here, and my privacy policy here.

Is Mexico City Worth Visiting? The short answer is yes! But I may be biased. Keep reading these 26 Pros and Cons of visiting Mexico City.

This post will cover everything you need to know about traveling to one of the biggest cities in the world so you can make the decision for yourself!

I was born and bred in Mexico City and to be quite honest, I never really thought of the city as much growing up.

It wasn’t until I decided to travel the world and live in different cities across different continents that I concluded that CDMX, as it’s locally called now, is one of the most thrilling capitals in the entire world.

After almost ten years of traveling all over and finding home bases in places like New York City, Miami, Bangkok, London, and Dusseldorf, I decided to move back to Mexico City because what this city has is pretty unique.

You can’t ever really get bored here because there is something going on every second of every day!

Of course, like any big city in the world, Mexico City has a lot of pros and a lot of cons.

For that reason, I put together a comprehensive guide with everything you need to know about this humongous metropolis so you can decide if Mexico City is worth seeing on your own.

Monumento a La Patria CDMX under a pink sky

Why should you visit Mexico City?

👉🏼 is mexico city safe.

Like any big city, Mexico City has safe and unsafe areas. Generally, Mexico City is a very safe destination to visit.

Safe areas to stay for tourists include Roma Norte, Roma Sur, Condesa, Polanco, Lomas de Chapultepec, Cuauhtemoc, and Santa Fe. When staying in any of these areas, you will rarely encounter problems.

With that said, I still recommend practicing any safety precautions you would in any big city. 

👉🏼 Is Mexico City tourist friendly?

Mexico City doesn’t have the tourism infrastructure other cities in Mexico like Cancun or Los Cabos have, but it is generally very tourist friendly as long as you don’t expect locals to cater for you.

While this is rapidly changing due to a high influx of digital nomads, most people working at shops, restaurants, and cafés don’t speak English.

Neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma are changing this, but you should still expect to have to translate often.

Moreover, one thing to note about traveling to Mexico City is that due to plenty of digital nomads and remote workers coming to live here for extended periods of time since 2020, locals are beginning to resent gentrification.

While you shouldn’t encounter problems, there is definitely a rise in xenophobia among Mexico City locals as many have been displaced from their homes.

The issue is mostly targeted toward long-term stayers rather than visitors, but it is still something you should keep in mind when visiting.

Madre - restaurant cafe Roma building Mexico city

Reasons why you should visit Mexico City: Pros

1. rich history & attractions: historic center.

Also known as the Plaza de la Constitución, the Zócalo is the main square and the historical heart of Mexico City.

This place is a must-visit on anyone’s Mexico City itinerary as it holds immense cultural and historical significance.

For centuries now, the Zocalo has been the main gathering place for political, cultural, and social events in the city.

These days, the Zócalo is a magnificent space to look at, but it also acts as a cultural center of sorts where food, crafts, and souvenirs are sold.

Occasionally, events and concerts are held here as well.

As a tip, the Zócal still continues to be an important gathering spot in the city.

Protests happen here often as do plenty of political events. My advice is to make sure to check what’s going on during your visit as it can sometimes get incredibly crowded.

✨ Templo Mayor

You wouldn’t expect to find Mesoamerican ruins in the middle of a huge metropolis, but in Mexico City, everything is possible!

Templo Mayor was once the center of Tenochtitlan (the former Aztec capital). The Spanish largely destroyed it during the conquest and replaced it with a cathedral. 

There are still some ruins to explore and consider the splendor this significant capital once held, despite the fact that few of the temples were spared.

overview of Mexico city from the torre latina

✨ Palacio Nacional

Located in the historical center of the city, Palacio Nacional serves as the official seat of the executive branch of the Mexican government.

While some parts of it are out of reach for visitors for that very reason, you can still enter the place and check out its interior.

The building itself is magnificent work of art and a testament to colonial architecture in Mexico.

A favorite feature is the Diego Rivera mural series, “The History of Mexico”.

His works of art cover the walls of the main staircase and tell the story of Mexico as a country, covering pre-Columbian times all the way to the Mexican Revolution.

2. Amazing Architecture

One of my favorite things about Mexico City is its blend of amazing architecture.

One second, you can be looking at humongous skyscrapers, and the next, you can be admiring ancient Aztec ruins or colonial buildings.

The city has plenty of well-preserved ruins and buildings from prehispanic and Colonial times.

As the city grew and modernized, new buildings showcasing beautiful Art Nouveau and Neoclassical styles also popped up.

Seriously, walking around the city feels like you’re strolling through an architecture museum that reflects Mexico’s Citys ever-evolving identity.

The front of the cathedral in the Zocalo Mexico with a giant Mexican flag

3. Ancient Mesoamerican civilizations

Mexico City has been inhabited by several ancient civilizations, each of which has left a significant mark on the city’s culture and history. 

The most famous of these civilizations were the Aztecs, who founded their capital city of Tenochtitlan (modern-day Mexico City). 

Before the Aztecs, though, the area in and around Mexico City was home to several other civilizations.

These include the Toltecs (10 century) and the Teotihuacan (1st and 8th centuries).

4. Pyramids of Teotihuacan

One of the most significant archeological complexes in the world is Teotihuacan, which is about an hour’s drive from the center of Mexico City.

Teotihuacan was once the biggest city in all of North America, and the Aztecs later used it as a place of pilgrimage.

Today, tourists can explore a sizable portion of the ruins and take in Teotihuacan’s two impressive pyramids, the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, which are connected by a broad avenue with many still-standing structures and murals.

In addition, hot-air balloon rides are available here ! If you have the time and resources, I really recommend taking one because it will help you understand the true grandeur of the site.

monument in mexico city aerial view

5. Authentic Mexican culture

Mexico City has its own unique identity, history, and culture, making it very different from the rest of Mexico.

Even if you’ve visited other destinations in Mexico, you’ll feel as though you’re getting to know an entirely different side of the country. 

6. Awesome Foods & Restaurants

Mexico City has one of the most interesting food scenes in the entire world.

Not only will you find incredible street food on every single corner of the city, but you will also find tons of cozy hole-in-the-wall restaurants as well as plenty of high-end dining establishments.

As if that weren’t enough, Mexico City is also home to some of the best restaurants in the world, including Pujol, Sud 777, and Quintonil, to name just a few.

7. Buzzing Bars and Nightlife

If you’re into glitzy outings, you’ll fall head over heels in love with Mexico City’s nightlife . 

The city is home to some of the best bars in the world as well as some of the coolest clubs you’ll ever visit (think Salon Solin, Looloo, Republika, and Montana to name just a few!).

zocalo CDMX from a roof top view

8. Xochimilco Floating Gardens

Located in the south of Mexico City, Xochimilco Floating Gardens are a set of canals and artificial islands that were created by the Aztecs for agricultural purposes.

These days, the canals are a popular tourist attraction, with plenty of tours available on colorful boats called “ trajineras ” that can take you to several of the islands (if you’re into creepy stuff, make sure to book a tour that includes a visit to the Island of the Dolls – you can thank me later!)

Xochimilco is also a popular drinking spot in Mexico City. You can head over there with your friends, rent a trajinera , and party the day away as you ride the canals!

There are several tours available as well where you can join a shared trajinera and meet people (great if you’re traveling solo and want to make friends).

9. Fantastic Art Scenes & Museums

🎨 national anthropology museum.

The National Anthropology Museum is one of the most wonderful museums I’ve ever visited. This place alone makes Mexico City worth visiting.

This enormous museum is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the cultural heritage of Mexico’s indigenous peoples.

Here, you’ll find a vast collection of artifacts, including the Aztec Calendar Stone and a replica of the tomb of Mayan ruler Pakal the Great as well as exhibits spanning thousands of years of history, representing various indigenous communities from different regions of the country.

Roma Norte neighborhood - view of buidling on a corner with many trees

🎨 Frida Kahlo Museum

The Frida Kahlo Museum , also known as the Casa Azul (Blue House), is a must-visit attraction in Mexico City. 

This museum is located in the actual house where Mexican artist Frida Kahlo was born, lived, and created much of her artwork. 

During your visit, you can explore the rooms that have been preserved to reflect Kahlo’s life as well as a collection of her paintings, personal belongings, and tools. 

You will get a pretty intimate insight into her artistic vision, struggles, and legacy (I highly recommend watching the 2002 Frida movie before visiting!).

🎨 Palacio de Bellas Artes

The Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts) is an iconic cultural landmark in Mexico City and a magnificent building that combines neoclassical and Art Nouveau architectural styles.

These days, it acts as one of the most important centers for performing arts in the country, not to mention it also contains collections of Mexican art, including murals by renowned artists such as Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros. 

As if that weren’t enough, its rooftop offers panoramic views of the city , allowing visitors to appreciate the architectural splendor of Mexico City’s historic center.

Whether attending a performance or exploring art exhibitions, a visit to the Palacio de Bellas Artes is a must on your itinerary.

Mexico city street with two big trees in front

10. Beautiful Churches and Cathedral

⛪ metropolitan cathedral.

Located in the heart of Mexico City, the Metropolitan Cathedral is a magnificent religious and architectural masterpiece, not to mention it is also the largest cathedral on the American continent!

Even though religion isn’t as important for a large percentage of locals in Mexico City anymore, the cathedral is still a symbol of the city’s cultural heritage and history. 

Its construction began during the 16th century and took over 250 years to complete.

Its elaborate details and gorgeous architecture are reason enough to visit this Mexico City attraction, but also the fact that stepping inside will take you back centuries of Mexican history.

⛪ Basilica of Santa Maria Guadalupe

Another important religious site in Mexico City is the Basilica of Santa Maria Guadalupe, which is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the entire world.

It was built in order to honor Virgin Mary under the title of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The complex is made up of several buildings, with the main basilica dating all the way back to the 16th century (it wasn’t completed until 1976, so it actually looks quite modern!).

Mexico City panoramic view - asking yourself if is Mexico City worth visiting?

11. Amazing green space and parks

🌳 parque mexico.

Located in the Condesa Neighborhood, Parque Mexico is one of the city’s lungs and one of the most iconic parks in Mexico City.

The park features plenty of natural beauty, a wide array of trees, and lanes that will make you feel like you’re in a mini jungle.

In addition to that, this park has become a favorite for ex-pats and visitors because of the beautiful Art Deco buildings surrounding it, many of which harbor cafés, boutique shops, and trendy restaurants.

Something else you’ll love about Parque Mexico is the fact that it is a sort of artistic hub in Condesa.

Dance classes, exhibitions, outdoor concerts, and live performances are all held here any day of the week, especially during the afternoons and early evenings. 

During the weekends, Parque Mexico gets pretty crowded, so I would recommend visiting on a weekday if possible.

🌳 Bosque de Chapultepec

Bosque de Chapultepec is four times the size of Central Park and almost the size of Singapore, making it one of the largest urban parks in the world.

Being here always makes me feel as though I’ve left the city entirely. Because the park is absolutely humongous, it is divided into different sections.

The first one is the most popular one and one where you’ll find some of the biggest attractions in Mexico City such as the Chapultepec Castle, the zoo, and the Museum of Anthropology.

This part can get pretty crowded and feel a bit more commercialized for that reason, but you will still be able to find a quiet spot either way.

The second section also has lots of attractions as well as plenty of hidden gems.

This part of the park is pretty developed but has a much more local feel to it.

You’ll find restaurants, locals hosting picnics, joggers, and dogs running around.

The third section feels more like an actual forest you can get lost in for hours!

Most people never really visit this area of the park, so you will feel like you have it all to yourself.

Street in La Roma with trees

🌳 Parque Alameda Central

Ever since it opened during the 16th century, Parque Alameda Central has been a popular hangout spot for Mexico City locals.

This historical park is known for its beautiful monuments, fountains, and landscaping as well as for being home to several important buildings in the city like the Palacio de Bellas Artes.

🌳 Jardin Allende

Jardin Allende is a small yet incredibly charming park located in the Centro Historico.

The park boasts a fountain, benches, and a pretty tranquil ambiance where you can observe the local life in Centro. 

12. Cheapest capital city in North America

While Mexico City isn’t the cheapest place to visit in the country, it is still the most inexpensive city on the North American continent.

Soumaya museum with straircase with people sitting and  others walking

13. Perfect for solo travelers

Mexico City has a pretty young and open-minded atmosphere, which makes it perfect for solo travelers.

With so many museums, attractions, parks, and events you can attend on your own, the city is perfect if you’re traveling alone.

Making friends is also very easy, as the city has become a popular place for solo travelers, remote workers, and digital nomads.

14. Enormous marketplaces

One of the best things to do in Mexico City if you want to get to know a more local side of it is to check out a few of its markets.

Markets in Mexico City sell everything you can think of, ranging from fresh fruits and produce to prepared food, groceries, clothes, home supplies, and just about everything in between.

Some of the top markets to visit include the Central de Abastos (this is where most restaurants in Mexico City get their supplies and ingredients!), Mercado Medellin, Mercado San Juan, and Mercado Sonora.

Mexico city UNAM mural painting

15. Vibrant musical scene

Mexico City is a hub for music, with plenty of concerts and festivals being held here for those who enjoy modern music.

Mariachi and jazz are also a big part of Mexico City’s culture.

One of the best places to listen to live mariachi music is at Plaza Garibaldi, a lively square lined with bars and restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Mexican food and drinks while listening to live mariachi music.

As a local tip, I recommend visiting Garibaldi on a tour. While the area is pretty guarded because of tourism, it’s not exactly the safest place in Mexico City.

Jazz is also popular here, with plenty of bars offering live jazz every evening.

Musak, Jules Basement, Tokyo Music Bar, Jazzatlán Capita, Parker & Lenox, and Zinco Jazz Club are all popular spots for jazz lovers.

16. Largest Butterfly Migration (Monarch Butterfly Reserve)

Mexico City is located close to the Monarch Butterfly Reserve , where you can witness one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the world.

Every year, millions of Monarch butterflies travel to Mexico to escape the cold climate of Canada and the United States. 

The butterflies arrive in Mexico in November and spend the winter in the reserve’s forests before heading back north in March.

If you’re visiting Mexico City during this time of the year, I highly recommend visiting the reserve to experience one of the coolest natural sights the country has to offer!

sunset from a rooftop in CDMX

17. Excellent location for day-trips

Thanks to Mexico City’s centric location amid many states, the city is a wonderful hub for day trips .

It would be impossible for me to list them all in one post, but some of my favorite day trips to take from Mexico City include Malinalco, Valle de Bravo , Taxco, Queretaro , Puebla, Cholula, and Tepoztlan, to name just a few.

18. Nearby Volcanoes to hike

Mexico City is surrounded by impressive volcanoes you can hike!

Nevado de Toluca and La Malinche are two of the “easiest” hikes around Mexico City and perfect to get acclimatized (although I still found these hikes pretty tough!).

If you’re looking for a challenge, you can also choose to hike the Popocatepelt, Iztaccihuatl, and Pico the Orizaba, all of which are some of the highest peaks in North America.

19. Day of the Dead Festival

Day of the Dead is huge all over Mexico and in Mexico City, it is mainly celebrated with a vibrant parade featuring elaborate puppets, costumed performers, and lots of other things that depict the story behind the date.

The parade usually begins at the Zocalo and travels all the way through Paseo de la Reforma (the city’s most important avenue).

Aside from the parade, there are plenty of other festivals and events that take place in the city between October and November.

Zocalo - aerial view of zocalo with main square

Visiting Mexico City: Cons

20. unsafe neighborhoods.

There are plenty of safe neighborhoods in Mexico City, but like any large city in the world, there are some unsafe ones as well.

As long as you keep about your wits and know which areas to avoid, this should not be a huge con when deciding to visit Mexico City.

Unsafe neighborhoods include Tepito, parts of Centro Historico, Neza, Iztapalapa, and Doctores.

The city has made improvements in terms of safety in many of these places, but it’s still best to avoid them for the time being.

21. Air Pollution

Mexico City faces significant challenges when it comes to air pollution.

Its large population, car emissions, industrial activities, and humongous urbanization rates coupled with the city’s geography and location in a high-altitude valley all contribute to the problem.

Prolonged exposure to air pollution can lead to respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, and plenty of health complications.

With that said, if you’re visiting Mexico City for a short period of time, this should not affect you greatly, although I’ve had friends with sensitive bodies and lungs struggle while visiting the city, especially in May when the weather is very dry.

22. Poor Water Quality

Water quality in Mexico City isn’t great in some areas due to population growth, pollution, and industrial activities. 

This, however, does not really affect tourists staying in nicer neighborhoods like Roma Norte, Condesa, Polanco, Lomas de Chapultepec, and others.

As long as you don’t attempt to drink tap water , you will be fine!

23. Too much crowd

With 8 million inhabitants, Mexico City can get pretty crowded. Add to that the fact that 13 million people also live in Greater Mexico City (many of which work in the metropolitan area), and you’ve got yourself a pretty packed place!

24. Traffic can be a challenge

Traffic can be an issue in Mexico City, especially during the weekdays. This can make moving around pretty time-consuming, especially if you don’t want to walk or take public transportation.

polanco mural

25. Earthquake hotspot 

Earthquakes are a big issue in Mexico City. I kid you not, while I was writing this post, there was a big quake with an epicenter in the city!

Mexico City is located in a seismically active region, making it prone to earthquakes.

The city has experienced devastating earthquakes throughout its history, with notable events including the 1985 earthquake and the 2017 earthquake.

These earthquakes caused widespread destruction, loss of life, and significant damage to infrastructure.

In recent years, I’ve felt more earthquakes in Mexico City than I ever had.

While none of them have been fatal since the 2017 one, they can be a pretty terrifying experience no matter how used to them I get.

This is definitely a huge con of visiting Mexico City. 

Alarms usually ring a few minutes before an incoming earthquake happens, giving you time to evacuate the building and find a safe spot.

Make sure you read about earthquake safety before visiting the city so you know what to expect, how to react, and how to stay safe during one.

26. Red light district & prostitution

Even though prostitution is illegal in Mexico, Mexico City still has several red-light districts. This, however, does not affect tourists at all.

Mexico city zocalo By night

Getting around Mexico City

✔ walking around mexico city.

Mexico City is humongous, so walking all over the city isn’t possible, but plenty of neighborhoods such as Condesa, Roma, Cuauhtemoc, Polanco, and others are very walker-friendly, so you can easily explore these areas on foot if you wish to.

✔ Renting a car

While renting a car is pretty easy and inexpensive in Mexico City, I personally would recommend against doing so unless you plan on taking lots of day trips out from the city and want to have the ease of doing so indifferently.

For one, traffic in Mexico City can be a nightmare, not to mention driving can get pretty hectic.

You may just wind up spending half of your visit to Mexico City stuck in traffic and getting stressed!

You will also end up spending a lot more money and time than expected finding parking spots and figuring out the parking rules where you are.

Entrance of Museo Jumex, written on the building in big black letters

✔ Ubers and Taxi

One of my favorite ways to get around Mexico City is by Uber .

The app works well and is usually inexpensive, although prices can vary depending on traffic, time of the day, and whether or not it’s raining.

Additionally, there are other ride-sharing apps available you may want to download to compare prices.

These include Cabify, DiDi, and InDriver (InDriver is usually much cheaper, but cars can sometimes not be of that great quality. Keep in mind this app is cash only).

Taxis are another way to get around, but they aren’t usually recommended even by locals for safety reasons.

If you must take a taxi, make sure you only take one from an official agency.

✔ Public Transportation

👉🏼 Subway: The subway has stations all over the city (with the exception of Santa Fe). Locals in CDMX refer to it as the “metro”.

There are 12 metro lines in total, and they are distinguished by different colors and numbers. The cost of a one-way metro ticket, including transfers, is 5 pesos.

👉🏼 Metrobus: The Metrobus is another great, affordable, and efficient way to get around Mexico City.

The Metrobus runs over the ground, unlike the metro, but it still has its own lane on the road, so traffic has no bearing on how quickly it travels.

The Metrobus is 6 pesos in price. You must obtain a city card in order to use it because cash payments are not accepted (you can buy one directly at the machines at any station).

Aerial view of Mexico City with skyscrapers during the day

✔ Bike Share (Eco Bicis)

I love using bike sharing (eco bicis) to move around the neighborhood like Condesa, Polanco, and Roma Norte which have great infrastructure for cycling.

Using eco bicis is very easy. It usually takes less than 45 minutes to get from point A to point B and the first 45 minutes are free.

After 45 minutes, you must pay $50 MXN per hour to continue riding (or drop your bike off at a station, wait five minutes, and then pick up another one).

Is Mexico City expensive?

Mexico City is not the most affordable place in Mexico, but you can easily visit the city on a budget if you stick to street food and smaller restaurants.

Accommodation prices have increased in recent years, but it is still possible to find apartment rentals and hotel rooms for prices that won’t break the bank.

Tour prices are generally very pocket-friendly, too!

All in all, visiting Mexico City can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be as there are options for every budget.

Jumex. museum statue

Where to stay in Mexico City 

🛌🏻 budget: hotel pf.

why visit mexico city

Hotel PF is conveniently located in the trendy Condesa neighborhood and offers comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and complimentary breakfast for an affordable price. 

Awesome stay, I highly recommend it. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jaime, may 2023

👉 Check rates and availability at Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

🛌🏻 Mid-range: Nima Local House

why visit mexico city

Nima Local House is set in the stunning Roma neighborhood inside a stunning turn-of-the-century casona . This stunning boutique hotel features cozy rooms, intimate spaces, and incredibly stylish decor.

Immaculately clean and fantastic service. Perfect location and amenities. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Matthew, november 2021

🛌🏻 Luxury: The Four Seasons Hotel

why visit mexico city

The Four Seasons Hotel is a 5-star hotel located in the lively Paseo de la Reforma, Mexico City’s main avenue.

Its beautiful and modern rooms provide plenty of comfort and the hotel features lots of amenities like a spa, upscale restaurants, and a stunning outdoor courtyard (make sure you schedule at least one Sunday brunch here during your time in Mexico City!).

The beds and linens are amazing and the staff is the best. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Alejandro, march 2022

The best time to visit Mexico City

👍🏻 cheapest time to visit mexico city.

Mexico City is generally a year-round destination so prices don’t change much throughout the year. 

The cheapest time to visit would be between May and September, when the rainy season is going on and hotel rates and flights may lower down a little bit.

With that said, prices don’t really change much unless you’re visiting during a major festival or event such as Day of the Dead, Christmas, or Formula 1.

the angel statue in Mexico city at night

👍🏻 Best time to visit for lesser crowds

In general, Mexico City does not have a high or low travel season. There isn’t much of a difference in terms of crowdedness in a city with more than 20 million inhabitants.

Consider traveling during Mexico’s Semana Santa (Spring Break) and the Christmas Holidays if you want to visit when the city is less crowded.

During these times, a large number of residents of Mexico City depart the city for vacation, making the city appear noticeably more empty.

👎🏻 Worst time to visit Mexico City

The worst month of the rainy season in Mexico City is usually July, which typically lasts from June to October.

Even during these months, I’ve noticed rain hasn’t been as bad in recent years, but from June through September in particular, be prepared for torrential downpours that typically begin in the afternoon and last well into the evening.

Additionally, the driest months of the year are April and May.

Although this shouldn’t stop you from going to Mexico City, if your body has previously had trouble with high altitudes, I would recommend avoiding visiting at this time.

Many visitors to Mexico City at this time of year have complained of heavy headaches and even nosebleeds because of the combination of altitude and dryness, though not everyone experiences it. 

Soumaya Museum front of the building with people in front

Mexico City travel tips

📌 Credit and debit cards are widely accepted all over the city, including small establishments and street food stalls . You should carry a bit of cash in case you need it, but your card will get you a long way.

📌 Learn some basic Spanish phrases . Many people in Mexico City speak English, but it is not the norm. Knowing a few Spanish phrases can be very helpful.

📌 If you want to try street food, I recommend doing so on the stalls that have lots of locals purchasing food as well. This means the place is clean, offers fair prices, and has delicious food.

La Roma Church with trees

Frequently Asked Question s

Is it worth visiting mexico city.

Yes! No matter your travel style, Mexico City has something for everyone and is definitely worth visiting.

From great food to incredible architecture, culture, and history, you’re guaranteed to find something to pique your interest in this huge metropolis.

Why do tourists visit Mexico City?

Tourists love Mexico City for plenty of reasons. One of the main draws for visitors is the city’s rich cultural heritage, which you can explore through its museums, galleries, and architecture.

Its cuisine is another reason people visit the city. With delicious street food on every corner and some of the best restaurants in the world, Mexico City definitely knows how to do food right.

Aside from that, Mexico City has a vibrant nightlife, world-class shopping, and lots of entertainment options. Getting bored here is simply impossible because there’s always something going on!

Close up of Colonial Building

Is Mexico City a walkable city?

Mexico City is absolutely humongous so at first glance, it may not look like a very walkable city.

However, most of the main things to see are pretty centered and the neighborhoods you’ll likely stay at (Condesa, Roma, Polanco, etc) are all incredibly walkable.

You may need to grab an Uber at times due to distances, but in general, if you have a decent fitness level, you can easily walk from A to B easily.

Most of these neighborhoods are pretty flat, safe, and their streets were designed with pedestrians in mind, so you shouldn’t encounter any problems when walking!

Can you get around Mexico City without a car?

Yes, getting around Mexico City without a car is possible.

Transportation options abound in the city and range from multiple public transportation methods to ride-sharing apps, e-bikes, e-scooters, and more.

Colonia Roma Murals - the best restaurants in Roma Condesa

How many days is enough for Mexico City?

Three days should be enough to get a taste of Mexico City and see many of the main attractions.

If you want to get to know the city better and beyond its touristy side, at least a week is recommended.

Is Mexico City a foodie destination?

Yes. Mexico City is considered one of the best destinations for food in Mexico.

Not only will you find a wide variety of authentic Mexican dishes and street food stalls in the city, but also some of the best restaurants and fine dining spots on the continent.

Park in La Condesa

Can I drink tap water in Mexico City?

Tap water in Mexico is not considered safe to drink.

Is Mexico City a cheap city to visit?

Depending on your interests, Mexico City can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be. 

Street food and local restaurants are very inexpensive, but there are also tons of high-end dining establishments.

Hotels range from mid-range Airbnbs and hostels to ultra-luxury rooms.

More often than not, visiting the main sights and museums is pretty cheap.

Mexico city at night main square

Wrapping Up: Is Mexico City worth visiting?

Mexico City is an incredibly exciting city and a place you will fall head over heels in love with if you enjoy visiting big metropolises.

From its cultural heritage, rich history, modern ambiance, and incredible food scene, there’s pretty much nothing Mexico City lacks.

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Dani is a travel write and blogger from Mexico City who traveled all over the world for 5 years before returning to Mexico. After visiting and living in so many different countries, she realized how lucky she is to call Mexico her home.

Wandering Smileys – Letting Smiles Lead the Way

10 Reasons to Visit Mexico City: The Beautiful and Bustling Capital

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Mexico City is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world. There are endless things to see and do here, from ancient ruins to trendy nightlife districts. If you're looking for an adventure, Mexico City is a great destination! Here are 10 reasons why you should visit this amazing city.

Table of Contents

10 Reasons to Visit Mexico City: The Beautiful and Bustling Capital

Mexico City is best known for its incredible history and culture. There are ancient ruins and colonial architecture around every corner.

The Mexican flag flies over the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral in Constitution Square.

Mexico City is one of the oldest cities in the Western Hemisphere, and it has a rich and fascinating history. The city was founded by the Aztecs in 1325, and it soon became one of the most important cities in the empire. In 1521, the Spanish conquistadors arrived and conquered the city, and Mexico City became the capital of the new Spanish colony.

Downtown Mexico City skyline

The city continued to grow and evolve over the years. In 1821, Mexico gained its independence from Spain, and Mexico City became the new nation's capital. The city has since become one of the most important cultural centers in Latin America. There are museums, theaters, and art galleries galore here.

Meat on a spit at a restaurant in Mexico

Mexico City is also known for its delicious food. There are endless options to choose from, whether you're looking for street food or fine dining. The city's cuisine is a blend of indigenous and Spanish influences.

Going back to history, you can't visit Mexico City without checking out the famous archaeological site of Teotihuacan. This massive complex was once one of the largest cities in the world, and it's home to some of the most impressive pyramids in Mexico.

If you're a fan of art, you'll definitely want to visit the Museo Nacional de Arte. This world-renowned museum houses an incredible collection of Mexican art, from ancient Maya sculptures to modern paintings.

Is it safe to visit Mexico City?

Mexico City skyline

Yes, Mexico City is safe to visit. However, as with any large city, it's always a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Is Mexico City Expensive to Visit?

500 pesos bills

The quick answer is no. Mexico City is relatively inexpensive compared to other major cities in North America and Europe, such as New York and Paris.

However, Mexico City can be as expensive as you want it to be. You can easily splurge on dining out and visiting Mexico City's sites if you really want. However, the beauty of Mexico City is that you can have a fantastic time even if you're on a budget. Even the Michelin caliber restaurants like Pujol are significantly cheaper, making it a foodies paradise.

Why is Mexico City a Good Place to Visit?

In addition to being a great value, Mexico City is an incredibly diverse and exciting place to visit. 

pyramid in Mexico

There are world-class museums, fantastic architecture, and lively markets to explore. And of course, the food here is incredible! But don't take my word for it. Let's talk about 10 reasons why you should visit Mexico City.

Mexico City is best known for its incredible history and culture.

Mexico City is one of the oldest cities in the Western Hemisphere, and it's been a center of culture and politics for centuries. The city was founded by the Aztecs in 1325, and it served as the capital of the Aztec Empire. 

Today, Mexico City is a bustling metropolis with over 21 million people. The Historic Center (or El Zocalo) in Mexico City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the city center, you can visit the Templo Mayor, which are the ruins of an ancient Aztec Temple.

The beauty of this area is that you can explore it yourself or go on a historic walking tour like this one. [Insert affiliate link here]

The city is home to some of the best restaurants in the world!

Porfirio's restaurant in Mexico City

If you're a foodie, then you'll love Mexico City. The city has everything from world-renowned Michelin restaurants to street carts serving up delicious tacos. There are also some incredible markets in Mexico City where you can find the best local produce and spices.

octopus on a plate cooked with a green garnish

Voted 9th best restaurant in the world, Pujol is a must-visit for any foodie looking for a Michelin Star caliber restaurant without the Michelin price tag. Compared to other restaurants in Mexico City, Pujol is a bit pricey; however, it is an absolute bargain compared to others on the list of World's Best. Pujol's seven-course tasting menu will take you through a journey of traditional Mexican dishes that you will never forget.

lady making tacos at a street stand a guy with earphones in watching her

If you're looking for a more casual dining experience, then you can't go wrong with the street food here. Tacos are everywhere in Mexico City, and they're delicious! You can find tacos al pastor (pork), carnitas (fried pork), barbacoa (shredded beef or lamb), and many other kinds of meat. Check out Birria Estilo Jalisco or Tacos Don Juan for some of the best street tacos.

Mexico City has a thriving art scene.

why visit mexico city

From world-renowned museums to small galleries in neighborhoods like Coyoacan, there is no shortage of art in Mexico City. The best part is that it's affordable to visit most museums and galleries here.

If you are lucky enough to visit in February, check out the Zona Maco art festival, which is held every year and features art from all over the country.

Mexico City has incredible Night Life.

Mexico city at night

The best way to experience Mexico City's nightlife is simply wandering the streets and taking in the sights and sounds. You'll find bars, clubs, and restaurants of all kinds.

Comedor Lucerna, located in La Reforma, is a great place to experience the nightlife in Mexico. 

Comedor Lucerna

This food court features street food vendors and a full bar. They have live music and/or a DJ on the weekends to keep the party going. Be sure to order a gin drink from one of the carts. They are absolutely delicious.

Mexico City is also home to some of the best bars in the world. Voted the best bar in North America, Licoreria Limantour is a must-visit. This is a great place to order a craft cocktail and take in the Mexico City night scene.

All the Museums (over 150 to be exact)

Museo Nacional de Arte

Mexico City has it all when it comes to art and history, from world-renowned museums like the Museo Nacional de Antropologia to smaller, more intimate galleries. The best part is that many museums are affordable or even free to visit.

Here are just a few of the must-see museums in Mexico City that you should add to your list:

Museo Nacional de Antropologia 

Museo Nacional de Antropologia 

The Museo Nacional de Antropologia is one of the most famous museums in Mexico City. This museum is dedicated to the study of human culture and features exhibitions on archaeology, anthropology, and history.

The museum is housed in a building designed by Pedro Ramírez Vázquez and is considered one of the most iconic buildings in Mexico City.

The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission is MX485.00 pesos. Admission is free on Sundays for Mexican citizens and foreign residents.

Museo Frida Kahlo 

Museo Frida Kahlo 

The Museo Frida Kahlo is a must-visit for any fan of the Mexican artist. This museum is located in her former home, La Casa Azul (The Blue House), and features exhibits on her life and work.

The museum is open on Tuesday, and Thursday-Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. On Wednesdays, the museum is open from 11:00 am-6:00 pm. General admission is MX230.00 pesos on the weekdays and MX270.00 pesos on the weekends.

Museo de Arte Moderno (Museum of Modern Art) 

why visit mexico city

The Museum of Modern Art is home to an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art worldwide. This museum is also housed in a building designed by Pedro Ramírez.

The museum is open Tuesday -Sunday from 10:30 am – 5:30 pm. Admission is MX80.00 pesos. Admission is free on Sundays.

Templo Mayor Museum 

why visit mexico city

The Templo Mayor Museum is dedicated to pre-Columbian Mexican culture and history. This museum is located in the ruins of the Templo Mayor, which was one of the main temples of the Aztec empire.

The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday from 9:00 am-5:00 pm. Admission is MX80.00 pesos. Admission is free on Sundays.

Palacio de Bellas Artes 

why visit mexico city

The Palacio de Bellas Artes is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mexico City. This grand building is home to a theater, an art museum, and a library. The Palacio de Bellas Artes is best known for its murals by Diego Rivera, which depict Mexican history and culture.

The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday 11:00 am-5:00 pm. Admission is MX80.00 pesos.

In addition to the museums above, there are also a number of other smaller museums in Mexico City that are worth visiting, such as the Museo de la Revolución, the Museo Rufino Tamayo, and the Museo Nacional de San Carlos.

The Architecture.

Mexico Cityscape

From colonial-era buildings to contemporary skyscrapers, Mexico City is a feast for the eyes when it comes to architecture. A walk down Reforma Avenue will take you past some of the best examples of Mexican architecture.

Head to La Roma or Condesa neighborhoods, where you'll find many art deco and mid-century modern buildings. Wander the neighborhoods, and don't forget to bring your camera to really capture the beauty of the architecture in Mexico City. There are also shops where you can pick up pieces reminiscent of those eras.

Teotihuacan (Home to some of the largest pyramids in the world)

Teotihuacan

If you want to take a break from the city, head to Teotihuacan. Located about an hour outside of Mexico City, Teotihuacan is home to some of the largest pyramids in the world. The Pyramid of the Sun is one of the largest pyramids in the world. The site is also home to many ancient ruins and artifacts. A visit here is a must for anyone interested in history or archaeology.

Xochimilco (The Venice of Mexico)

Xochimilco (The Venice of Mexico)

Xochimilco is one of the best places to experience Mexican culture. This neighborhood is famous for its canals and colorful boats called trajineras. You can take a boat tour through the canals and enjoy traditional Mexican music and food.

If you visit during the Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos) festival, be sure to check out the floating market. This is a unique opportunity to see how locals celebrate this holiday.

Shopping The Markets.

 Mercado San Juan in Coyoacan

From the Mercado San Juan in Coyoacan to the massive La Merced Market, Mexico City is filled with markets where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Be sure to wander the markets and take your time looking through everything on offer. You never know what you might find.

The Music and Culture.

 mariachi band

Mexico City is filled with music and culture. From mariachi bands to folkloric dancers, there is always something going on. The best way to experience the music and culture is to simply wander the streets and take it all in.

You can also head to one of the many parks or plazas where you'll find street performers and musicians. Chapultepec Park on the weekend is a great place to experience the music and culture of Mexico City. El Zocalo is also a great place to experience the vibrant sights and sounds of Mexico City.

Best Time to Visit Mexico City

Calendar app on a cell phone

The best time to visit Mexico City is from November to February during the cooler months. However, the city is busy all year round with events and festivals.

If you want to experience the Day of the Dead festival, plan your trip for October or November. Christmas is also a great time to visit Mexico City as the city comes alive with festive lights and decorations.

Where to Stay in Mexico City

Gran Hotel in Mexico City

There are plenty of great places to stay in Mexico City. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, there is something for everyone.

For a luxurious experience, head to the Polanco neighborhood, where you'll find many high-end hotels. Here you will find the Four Seasons, located in the heart of Mexico City's vibrant night scene.

If you are looking for a more affordable option nearby, then check out the La Reforma neighborhood. The Fiesta Americana is a great option, especially if you are visiting during the Day of the Dead, as the hotel is located right on the parade route.

If you're a James Bond fan, book a night at the Gran Hotel with rooms that have views overlooking the History City Center. Even if you don't get to stay at the Gran Hotel, check out their restaurant and bar located on the top floor. Here you can sit on the outdoor terrace and enjoy a drink while taking in the view of El Zocalo.

Visiting Mexico City

Mexico City is a beautiful and bustling capital that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for delicious food, stunning architecture, or an exciting nightlife scene, Mexico City has it all. So what are you waiting for? Are you ready to plan your trip to Mexico City?

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A tourist admiring the beautiful stained glass windows along a corridor inside Chapultepec Castle.

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why visit mexico city

Mexico City

A high-octane megalopolis boasting old-school cantinas, intriguing museums, inspired dining and boating along ancient canals, Mexico City is the sun in the Mexican solar system.

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Experience the real Mexico City. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Palace Bellas Artes

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Alameda Central

Immense murals by world-famous Mexican artists dominate the top floors of this splendid white-marble palace – a concert hall and arts center commissioned…

Fountain in the courtyard of a government building, National Palace, Zocalo, Mexico City, Mexico

Palacio Nacional

Centro Histórico

As the seat of the federal branch of the Mexican government, the Palacio Nacional (National Palace) is home to the offices of the president of Mexico and…

Torre Latinoamericana

Torre Latinoamericana

The Torre Latinoamericana was Latin America’s tallest building when constructed in 1956, and remains the dominant focal point of Centro Histórico. It's an…

why visit mexico city

Museo Frida Kahlo

Coyoacán & San Ángel

Renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo was born in, and lived and died in, Casa Azul (Blue House), now a museum. Almost every visitor to Mexico City makes a…

The ruins of the Templo Mayor in Mexico City.

Templo Mayor

Before the Spaniards demolished it, the Aztec 'Great Temple' Teocalli of Tenochtitlán covered the site where the cathedral now stands, as well as the…

House Studio Museum of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.

Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo

If you saw the movie Frida (2002), you’ll recognize this museum, designed by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera's friend, architect and painter Juan O’Gorman…

Leon Trotsky grave with the Soviet symbol in his House Museum in Mexico City.

Museo Casa de León Trotsky

The Trotsky home, now a museum, remains much as it was on the day when one of Stalin's agents, a Catalan named Ramón Mercader, caught up with the…

Rivera's mural entitled "A Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Park," in the Museo Mural Diego Rivera in Mexico City.

Museo Mural Diego Rivera

This museum is home to one of Diego Rivera’s most famous works, Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the…

Top picks from our travel experts

10 top things to do in mexico city.

Trajinera or punt on the canals and floating gardens of Xochimilco Mexico City

Xochimilco Canals

Hundreds of colorful trajineras (gondolas) await passengers at the village’s 10 embarcaderos to paddle you through the waterways dotted with birdlife and…

Biblioteca de México

Biblioteca de México

Mexico City's mega-library holds over 500,000 volumes and an extensive maps collection. Design and architecture fans should visit just to witness the…

11 of the best free things to do in Mexico City

Museo Soumaya

Museo Soumaya

Polanco & Bosque de Chapultepec

Someone ought to tell Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim that bigger isn't always better. Named after his late wife, this six-story behemoth (plated with 16…

Museo Nacional de las Culturas

Museo Nacional de las Culturas

Constructed in 1567 as the colonial mint, this renovated museum exhibits the art, dress and handicrafts of Mexico's and the world’s cultures. Mixed in for…

Palacio Postal

Palacio Postal

More than just Mexico City’s central post office, this golden palace built in 1907 is an Italianate confection designed by the Palacio de Bellas Artes’…

Ex Teresa Arte Actual

Ex Teresa Arte Actual

Mexico City was built atop a sloshy lake bed and it's sinking fast, as evidenced by this teetering former convent. The 17th-century building now serves as…

500px Photo ID: 90987349 - Trumpet player in Mariachi band

Plaza Garibaldi

Every night the city’s mariachi bands belt out heartfelt ballads in this festive square. Wearing silver-studded outfits, they toot their trumpets and tune…

Museo Jumex in Plaza Carso, Mexico City.

Museo Jumex

Museo Jumex was built to house one of Latin America's leading contemporary art collections. Temporary exhibits draw on a collection of around 2600 pieces…

Happy 5 de Mayo

The heart of Mexico City is the Plaza de la Constitución. Residents began calling it the Zócalo, meaning ‘base,’ in the 19th century, when plans for a…

Alameda Central

Created in the late 1500s by mandate of then-viceroy Luis de Velasco, the Alameda took its name from the álamos (poplars) planted over its rectangular…

The Metropolitan Cathedral seen from the Zocolo in Mexico City.

Catedral Metropolitana

One of Mexico City’s most iconic structures, this cathedral is a monumental edifice: 109m long, 59m wide and 65m high. Started in 1573, it remained a work…

Castillo de Chapultepec

Castillo de Chapultepec

A visible reminder of Mexico’s bygone aristocracy, the ‘castle’ that stands atop Chapultepec Hill was begun in 1785 but not completed until after…

El Ángel

Zona Rosa & Reforma

The symbol of Mexico City, known as 'El Ángel' (The Angel), this gilded Winged Victory on a 45m-high pillar was sculpted for the independence centennial…

Tianguis Cultural del Chopo

Tianguis Cultural del Chopo

A gathering place for the city’s various youth subcultures – especially goth, metal, indie and punk – with most of the outdoor vendor stalls selling new…

Mexico, Mexico City. The Basilica of Guadalupe, considered to be the second most important sanctuary of Catholicism after the Vatican City.

Basílica de Guadalupe

A cult developed around this site after a Christian convert named Juan Diego claimed in December 1531 that the Virgin Mary appeared before him on the…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

Be a better traveler with this guide to health, safety and etiquette in Mexico City.

Best Neighborhoods

Location is everything in Mexico City, and we've put together a list of the best neighborhoods that are easily walkable and full of charm and character.

While there is plenty to keep you busy in Mexico City, the central region of Mexico is filled with pueblos mágicos that are well worth your time. 

Money and Costs

If you want to visit Mexico City but have a tight budget, these practical travel, accommodation, and going-out tips have got you covered.

Transportation

Whether it's cycling, tackling the sprawling subway, or crossing the city by cable car, here is how to navigate Mexico's mighty capital.

Free Things to Do

Stretch your pesos even further with our round up of the best free things to do in Mexico City.

Spending Diaries

A detailed diary of how to book accommodation, take in superb museums and eat very well in the Mexican capital for under $500.

Traveling with Kids

Heading to Mexico City with your kids? Check out these top family-friendly activities and tips for planning your trip.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Mexico

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

why visit mexico city

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Mexico City and beyond

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Happy Healthy Nomads

Why Visit Mexico City? 13 Reasons For First-Timers!

Why visit Mexico City? Because it is one of the most diverse and interesting capital cities on the planet. We have spent many months in Mexico City and it is one of our favorite cities that we have ever visited.

There are over 20 million people living in Mexico City so it can be a very chaotic noisy place. This may put some people off visiting, as they may imagine a noisy soulless city.

But Mexico City has so much to offer that there really is something for everyone . If you want chaotic streets full of amazing street food there is plenty of that. But if you want quiet green parks and fancy restaurants you can also find that there.

In this blog post, we will take you through all our top reasons why to visit Mexico City!

1. Food (Our favorite reason why to visit Mexico City)

Mexican food is famous worldwide and there is no better place to try out authentic Mexican food than Mexico City.

If you ask locals why visit Mexico City? there is a high chance they will say to visit because of the food. Mexicans are very proud of their local cuisine and will usually be happy to tell you the best spots.

Because Mexico is such a large country there is actually a large diversity of different cuisines in different regions and not ‘one real Mexican food’. But because Mexico City attracts migrants from all over Mexico you can easily find regional specialties from all over the country.

So you can find some Oaxacan Mole, Cochinita Pibil from the Yucatan, or Birria from Michoacan in Mexico’s capital. The food is also generally very affordable and convenient with carts selling street food everywhere.

What food is Mexico City known for? The first thing most people will say is tacos. Read here: 🌮 12 best taco places in Mexico City to try them all!

A wrap filled with veggies on a colorful table cloth

But if you have had enough of Mexican food you can also find Korean, Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Japanese food. Mexico City is a diverse city so no matter what type of food you want you should be able to find it.

There are also a huge number of vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Mexico City. Read here: 🥑 14 best vegan & vegetarian food in Mexico City

2. Fascinating history

Mexico City has a super interesting history going back thousands of years. Modern Mexico City is built on top of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan which was conquered and unfortunately destroyed by the Spanish.

But this happened way back in the 1500s so over 500 years passed since the Spanish colonization of the area. The intermingling of the two cultures has created a fascinating history that is interesting to learn about.

You can still see remains of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan next to the Zocalo which is the main square of Mexico City. The ruins were buried underneath the city and forgotten about for hundreds of years. They were uncovered in the 20th century and today there is a very good museum at the site.

The pyramid of the sun at Teotihuacan is one of the best reasons why to visit Mexico city

If you are interested in the history of the region I highly recommend visiting the Anthropology Museum . It is one of the best museums in Mexico and one of the better museums we have visited anywhere in the world.

Also, the amazing ruins of Teotihuacan are only 1 hour from Mexico City and are some of the best ruins in Mexico City. The history of the indigenous cultures and the arrival of the Spanish is fascinating to me. It is in my opinion another great reason why to visit Mexico City.

3. Beautiful colonial architecture

Mexico City is full of old Spanish colonial buildings, especially in the historical center. Mexico City’s old town is actually not the prettiest in comparison to other ones in Mexico as it does not have the colorful buildings most others do. But it still has a lot of impressive historic buildings.

I actually quite like it because the buildings are a bit rough around the edges compared to other towns. I think this gives it a bit more of an authentic feel because there haven’t been massive restoration works to make everything perfect. Plus, it’s nice to see the old mixing with the new.

To see the best colonial architecture of Mexico City I recommend checking out the Zocalo and from there walking to the Palacio de Bellas Artes . This area contains most of Mexico City’s impressive colonial buildings and is a great free thing to do in Mexico .

An aerial view of the Palacio de Bellas Artes a great reason why to visit Mexico City

4. Green relaxing parks

One thing that really surprised me about Mexico City was how nice all the parks are. That comes in handy as they are a great way to escape the crowds, experience local life , and get some fresh air between sightseeing.

Many people assume that most areas in Mexico are dry and almost desert-like. But Mexico City actually gets more rain per year than London! 🤯 This means there is plenty of rain for lush parks and some are so big they even house a castle, museums, or art galleries.

If you are looking for some parks to visit I recommend:

  • Chapultepec Park
  • Parque Mexico
  • Parque España
  • Parque Bicentenario

Most of the parks also have free outdoor gyms and great areas to run which we absolutely love. Read here: 🏋️ Working Out On The Road

A square in Parque Mexico with people playing in Condesa

5. Amazing weather (Our second favorite reason why to visit Mexico City)

Mexico City has fairly pleasant weather year-round due to its elevation above sea level. It is located in the tropics but is about 2,200 m (7,300 ft) above sea level.

The average high daytime temperature throughout the year ranges from 21°C (71 F) in the coldest month to 27°C (80 F) in the warmest month.

The temperature usually drops a lot at night time due to the elevation. The average low in the coldest month is around 8°C (46 F) and 13°C (55 F) in the warmest months.

The coolest months are also the driest months with the dry season going from November to April when there is almost no rain. While the wet season is from May to October which is also the warmest time of the year.

So no matter what time of year you visit Mexico City the weather will always be fairly pleasant and never super hot or super cold.

People at a market in Roma Norte

6. It’s an affordable city

Mexico City in general has become a lot more expensive in recent years which is partly because the economy has improved so much. But it is still a very affordable place compared to other major cities around the world.

Especially if you live like the locals and buy your food at markets and eat street food you can really cut your costs.

But if you want to make your visit to Mexico City a lot cheaper you need to find accommodation away from the popular areas of Roma, Condesa , and Polanco.

These are really nice areas in Mexico City and expat-friendly but they can also be very pricey . If you stay in a nice apartment or hotel in these areas and eat at fancy restaurants you will find prices very similar to Europe or North America.

But just try to expand your comfort zone to other areas too, such as the neighboring areas or around the historic center and you can have a very affordable trip to Mexico City.

This leads us nicely to the next two reasons why to visit Mexico City on this list: Markets and Public Transport.

Car driving through the middle of a busy outdoor market in Mexico City

Read also: 💰 29 easy & proven ways to travel cheap 🏠 How to find free accommodation for travel 🍉 How to eat healthily & cheap while traveling

7. Wide range of markets

Mexico City has a huge selection of markets selling everything you need: fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, baked goods, street food, electronics, clothes, crafts, and souvenirs.

Due to Mexico City’s location in the center of the country, there is always a great supply of fresh fruits and vegetables from the surrounding regions, In all our travels around Mexico, we found the best deals in Mexico City for fruits and vegetables at the markets here. So dig in!

There are also some local organic markets and second-hand flea markets. So no matter what you are looking for you can find it at a market in Mexico City.

Read here: 🛒 10 Best Food & Craft Markets in Mexico City

A selection of fruits for sale at a market in Mexico City

8. Cheap public transport system

Mexico City is great for people that like to take public transport. The Mexico City metro is the second largest subway system in North America after New York and serves around 1.5 billion people a year.

The metro system is extensive and covers all regions of the city you would want to visit. It is also only 5 pesos (25 cents) per ride! So it is an absolute bargain.

Another great thing about the metro system is that it is kept very clean. This is not something people usually expect in Mexico City but it is much cleaner than metros in other parts of the world.

Just be careful catching the metro around rush hour as it gets incredibly crowded! And if you travel as a female you can take advantage of riding in the last carriage of the trains as they are female-only .

When it comes to safety the opinions about catching public transport in Mexico City are divided. But we took it uncountable times during the day and never had the slightest problems or felt unsafe.

Also if you do not feel like catching public transport Uber and other ride-sharing apps are very affordable and widely available.

Metro stop at Bellas Artis

9. Great free things to do (Another top reason why to visit Mexico City)

As we are always trying to travel on a budget we are always looking for fun free things to do. Luckily Mexico City is a place where there are plenty of super cool free activities to enjoy.

There is history in Mexico’s capital around every corner and just going for a walk in different parts of the city is a great free activity.

Do you want to know all our favorites? Read here: ✌ 18 Awesome free things to Do in Mexico City

The Monument to the Revolution a giant archway with some people walking in front of it

10. Mexico City is a safe city to visit

Is Mexico City safe? Whenever we talk about visiting Mexico people always ask about safety. And mostly the answer is yes!

It is true that there are security concerns in some parts of Mexico. But in Mexico City, you do not need to worry about your safety more than you would in other major cities around the world.

As long as you follow common sense and stay away from dodgy areas it is a very safe city. Especially if you are anywhere near the city center there will usually be a lot of police visible.

One thing to always be on the lookout for however is pickpockets . Especially in crowded metros, it is well known that there are pickpockets around.

Avoid wandering around by yourself at night and if in doubt ask locals where the spots of the city you should not go to are. Mexican people are incredibly friendly and like to help.

A good tip is to pick up some basic Spanish before you visit Mexico City, as only people working in tourism or in international environments will most likely be able to help you in English.

Generally speaking, you do not have to be worried about your safety which is another reason why you should visit Mexico City.

Katharina sitting on top of CDMX letters

11. Diverse neighborhoods

One thing I love about Mexico City is the massive contrasts you can see in different neighborhoods within the city. If you travel from one part of the city to another it feels like you are in a different country.

Walking down the main street in Polanco feels like you are in Beverley Hills . There are designer-branded shops everywhere and people dressed in designer clothes.

Then you can visit Tepito which is an enormous outdoor market, known as the most dangerous area in the city. Walking through Tepito there are swarms of people and it is super chaotic and loud like a market in Asia .

After Tepito you could explore the nearby Centro Historico which is full of Spanish colonial architecture right next to the ruins of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan which is an awesome contrast.

While wandering through the neighborhoods of Roma and Condesa you will find quiet tree-lined streets and fancy cafes and restaurants making you feel like you are in Europe or Tel Aviv.

There is so much to explore in all the different neighborhoods and it is a great reason why to visit Mexico City.

Read here: ⛲ 10 top things to do in Condesa, Mexico City

People walking down Madero street in downtown Mexico city

12. It is a great city for dog lovers

One thing that was really surprising about Mexico City to us was that there were a lot of dog owners. Particularly in Roma and Condesa , we saw dog groomers and people walking their dogs everywhere.

You can see that people really take care of their dogs too which is really nice. Too often while traveling the world we have seen areas where people mistreat their dogs. So it was so nice to see them taking such great care in Mexico City.

If you love dogs you should definitely check out the dog walkers in Parque Mexico in Condesa. It’s an attraction! The local dog walkers take about 20 dogs at a time and line them up in the park. It is amazing how obedient the dogs are.

We also recommend checking out Trusted House Sitters to see if there are any pet sits available in the city. We have done many amazing pet sits around the world, most of them in Mexico.

Trusted House Sitters is an amazing platform to get to look after cool pets while traveling in exchange for a place to stay. A truly local experience!

If you would like to join Trusted House Sitters sign up for free using this link + enter HAPPYHEALTHYNOMADS at checkout for a 25% discount on your yearly membership .

Read here: 🐶 How to find awesome pet sits in Mexico with Trusted House Sitters

A line of dogs in Parque Mexico - a reason why to visit Mexico City

13. Great base for day or weekend trips

Mexico City’s location right in the middle of Mexico makes it a great base to do day or weekend trips. There are many beautiful cities, towns, and nature to visit within a 4-hour drive that are great for a getaway and absolutely worth visiting.

Check out all our favorite places to visit from Mexico City:

  • San Miguel de Allende

A white VW taxi driving around a corner with a beautiful colonial church in the background in Taxco

Now you know why to visit Mexico City

That’s it! Our 12 reasons why to visit Mexico City. Hopefully, it gave you an answer to why Mexico City is becoming such a popular destination for travelers, ex-pats, and digital nomads .

We have spent many months in Mexico City and we are still finding new places to explore every time we visit. It is an awesome city that we will definitely return to in the future. Or who knows, live in.

I am curious. What are your reasons why to visit Mexico City? Let me know in the comments below!

  • 12 best taquerias in Mexico City
  • 13 best cities in Mexico for digital nomads
  • 10 top things to do in Condesa, Mexico City
  • 18 awesome free things to do in Mexico City

Hey there! Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means that if you choose to make a purchase we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us to generate income and keep creating content for you. So we greatly appreciate your support! Thanks!

why visit mexico city

Travel, health and fitness fanatic from New Zealand. Co-founder of Happy Healthy Nomads and always on a hunt for good food.

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The 27 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

By Scarlett Lindeman

Mexico City is changing rapidly from the influx of foreigners who have recently discovered the city’s infinite charms. There are dozens of new restaurants, parties, and projects that keep the vibrancy of this capital city (with a population of over 22 million) surging while the storied museums, ancient bars, and cultural sites maintain their standing. An intoxicating mix of ancient and new, you could spend a lifetime here and barely scratch the surface. While there's no way you’ll manage to cover all of the must see and dos in one trip, sticking to one neighborhood a day keeps things manageable. No matter how you end up spending your time in Mexico's capital, one thing is for sure—you’ll be scheduling your second trip before your first is even finished.

Read our complete Mexico City travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

why visit mexico city

Colonia Juárez Arrow

The Juarez neighborhood has evolved in recent years. Once gritty, the area is now teeming with great boutiques, bars, parks, and restaurants like Masala y Maiz, which blends Mexican and Indian cuisines, and Niddo, a sunny corner spot that serves a divine brunch. There are loads of hotspots around the leafy central Plaza Washington: La Rifa for artisanal chocolates, Loose Blues for vinyls and vintage denim, and Elly's for natural wines and handmade pastas.

Luis Barragan House and Studio

Luis Barragán House and Studio Arrow

The former home and studio of Pritzker-Prize-winning architect Luis Barragán has been transformed into a museum in Mexico City's Hidalgo District. Architecture and design lovers frequent the estate to study the artist's ingenious use of color, light, shadow, form, and texture. From the street, you'd never guess the personality that lies inside: The stark-gray façade humbly blends in with neighboring homes, but walk to the interior of the estate and you'll find striking walls in a kaleidoscope of bright colors, fountains, and pools.

Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico  Mexico City

Gran Hotel Ciudad de México Arrow

Even if you're not staying at this hotel on the Zócalo, it's worth stopping just to see the jaw-dropping interior. The building originally opened as a department store in 1899. Since then, its art nouveau bones have been carefully maintained: The curving staircase is a replica of the one at Paris's Le Bon Marché , and the antique elevator, made of iron and concrete, was the first of its kind in Mexico City. But the pièce de résistance is the incredible Tiffany stained-glass ceiling, imported from France in 1908.

El Moro Churerria Restaurant Mexico City

El Moro Churerría Arrow

Early evening is churro time in Mexico City—families, couples, and friends all go out for a taste of sweet fried dough and chocolate. You'll often find lines snaking around the block outside this beloved churrería (churro shop). There are shops in Roma, Centro Historico, Condesa, Polanco, and Cuauhtémoc.   Most have spiffy interiors with blue and white tile, bright lighting, and long communal tables. Watch the cooks dip, fry, and sugar-coat your long, spindly churro, which is paired with hot chocolate in a flavor of your choosing.

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Floating Gardens of Xochimilco Mexico City

Floating Gardens of Xochimilco Arrow

Drive 40 minutes south of the city and you'll witness the closest approximation to the Valley of Mexico (in which Mexico City lies) before the arrival of the Spanish. The World Heritage Site of Xochimilco, the extensive lake and canal system that once connected most of the settlements in the valley, is an incredible vestige of the area's pre-Hispanic past. Start at the Embarcadero Belem dock to board a colorful gondola -like boat, called a trajinera , and explore the waterways and artificial islands or chinampas .

Palacio NationalDiego Rivera murals Landmark murals art landmark Mexico city

Palacio Nacional Arrow

Diego Rivera's famous mural The History of Mexico, showcases the Aztec era to the conquest to the Revolution to the development of industry. It's grandiose and captivating, a unique opportunity to learn about Mexico's past. Not to mention it's free: The mural is housed in a distinguished building east of the Zócalo that operates as a government office. Among the office workers milling about, you'll see a mix of local, national, and international tourists who come to be awe-stricken by Rivera’s masterpiece.

Temple Mayor Mexico City

Templo Mayor Arrow

Templo Mayor (translation: main temple) was the centerpiece of Tenochtitlán, the ancient Aztec capital, constructed in 1325 in the marshes of Lake Texcoco. The temple was mowed over and replaced by a cathedral during the Spanish conquest in 1521. Today, the hulking stone ruins lie at the heart of Centro Histórico, embedded in the blueprint of downtown. Surrounded by streets and buildings, it is hard to imagine the temples in their original Aztecan glory, but the nicely organized museum helps paint the full picture.

Casa Azul Museo Frida Kahlo Museum Mexico City Blue House

Museo Frida Kahlo Arrow

The museum, also known as "Casa Azul" for its shocking cobalt blue exterior, is where Frida Kahlo was born, raised, lived, and died. Visitors can take in a few paintings by Kahlo and her husband, Diego Rivera, in addition to other contemporary artists of their era. But perhaps more interesting is the voyeuristic window into their creative world. The home is carefully preserved and maintained; it's easy to image the spaces as they were during Kahlo's time. In addition to their personal effects and domestic materials, the collection of clothes and corsets Frida needed to support her body after her traumatic accident give an intimate look at the artist's daily struggles.

Sculpture Garden at the Museo Universitario Arte Contemporneo Mexico City

Sculpture Garden at the Museo Universitario Arte Contemporáneo Arrow

Located on the outskirts of Mexico City proper, at the National Autonomous University of Mexico campus, the Sculpture Park is totally off the tourist track. Featuring a range of grand outdoor sculptures, the park is best explored by foot. The sculpture space, which looks like a giant crater, is one the top things to spot. It's built around lava (which can be seen in the center) and has wonderful views from the ledge.

flower market. red and orange flowers

Mercado Jamaica Arrow

The city’s principal flower market offers visitors a fragrant, colorful walk through much of the region’s native flora and fauna, available to be bundled into a bouquet and taken back to your home. Available for your admiration are roses, lilies, daisies, ferns, and violets galore, among other rare and special species. Visit during Dia de Muertos to see trucks carting in pink and orange cempasuchil , or Mexican marigolds, for family members to buy to decorate their ofrendas at home or their loved ones’ graves. Build a bundle to decorate your hotel room with—or better yet, to dry and frame as a memory for when you return home.

Building the Revolution in Mexico City with water features

Monumento a la Revolución Arrow

This landmark, located in the heart of Mexico City, commemorates the Mexican Revolution and is the largest triumphal arch in the world. The main structure evolved over twenty-five years of stops and starts and a major redesign. It was finished in 1938, to comprise an eclectic blend of art-deco and Mexican socialist realism styles. A visit to the top observation deck only costs 110 pesos ($5) and there's a museum underground. You don't need much time to witness the glory of the monument. Saunter around, gawk at the creative architectural stylings of the structure, and walk under the arches. History nerds may be more interested in the small museum below, but more than anything it's an architecturally significant piece, and the observation deck has great views. If you keep your eyes peeled while exploring around town, you'll most likely catch a glimpse of the monument down a main street—but a quick glimpse isn't enough, and it's worth the quick 15-minute trip to walk underneath it.

outside omusubi restaurant Mexico City

Omusubi House Arrow

In a small storefront in Roma Norte, the husband and wife team, Ichiro Kitazawa and Varia Gonzáles Manuel work side-by-side in the miniscule kitchen, cupping steamed rice into palm-sized balls. They will sink sauteed sweet potato into the omusubi which are speckled like confetti with purple and wild rice, a marriage of Mexican ingredients and Japanese technique. They met while working at a Japanese restaurant years back when Mexico City was still called DF, the federal district. He had arrived ten years earlier by way of Osaka, as a hippy backpacker intent on photographing Latin America but fell into cooking; and she, from Puebla. “Omusubi translates to tying up or to bring together” Kitazawa explains, “which is how we wrap the rice”—and a sound metaphor for the forging of connections between their two countries.

Tlaloc Fountain and Dolores Carcamo MuseumMuseo del Carcamo de Dolores Diego Rivera Mexico City Mexico

Cárcamo de Dolores Arrow

Second or third-time visitors to Mexico City who think they've seen everything will find something new here. This historic but infrequently-visited site was constructed in 1951 as a hydraulic water system connected to the city's main water lines. And while it no longer acts as a municipal water work but rather a museum and cultural landmark, it underscores the city's complicated relationship with water. In the lesser-traveled section of Chapultepec, it is currently under renovation and closed to the public, though the massive Rivera sculpture of the Azteca water god Tlaloc out front can still be admired.

why visit mexico city

Eat Like a Local Arrow

Eat Like a Local, a Mexico City–based company, runs culinary tours that immerse visitors in the city's vast food scene. Rocio, the guide, has long been a food blogger , and her knowledge about the Mexico City's food scene is totally on point. She's also passionate about connecting tourists with locals, and impacting Mexico City in a positive, sustainable way. There's a set itinerary, but she's flexible—so go on, order another mezcal or pork carnitas, if you like.

Museo Jumex Mexico City Museum

Museo Jumex Arrow

Museo Jumex houses one of Latin America's largest private contemporary art collections, which includes works by Andy Warhol, Martin Kippenberger, Cy Twombly, and Damien Hirst. Mediums range from paintings and drawings to light and video installations. The building is as distinctive as the art: British architect David Chipperfield designed the 15,000 square-foot white-concrete cube with a sawtooth top. (Plus the Soumaya Museum is just across the square, so you can feed two birds with one scone.) 

Cantina Bar Mexico City

Self-Guided Centro Historico Cantina Crawl Arrow

It's easy to pop around in Centro, hitting up a few cantinas to have a drink or two and to soak up the style of these classic, dive-y spots. The more friends you bring and make, the better. Locals and regulars alike hit the cantinas, which maintain a storied baseline for the drinking culture of Mexico City. Musicians pass through, sorrows are drowned, and gains celebrated. Many cantinas serve food, some better than others, and will often gift snacks and small plates if you consume around three drinks, though each spot has its own rules. Beer and tequila prevail. Simple cocktails, built-in-the-glass rum and cokes, margaritas, sangria, rum, brandy, and mezcal. Some cantinas are known for certain drinks, but craft cocktails this is not.

Mexican wrestlers take part in a tribute to Mexican fighter Silver King  who died after collapsing during a show in...

Lucha Libre at the Arena Coliseo Arrow

A giant venue that hosts sporting and entertainment events, the Arena seats as many as 23,300 spectators. It's best known for hosting Lucha Libre wrestling matches. The stadium is sprawling, and some seats are certainly better than others, depending on how much money you're willing to fork out. If you're here because you're a true Lucha Libre fan, make sure to sit in the front row; if you're here to have a fun night out with friends, the cheap seats will do just fine.

Teotihuacan Pyramids Mexico City

Teotihuacán Arrow

The ancient Mesoamerican pyramids of Teotihuacán, in the Valley of Mexico, once served as the largest city in the pre-Columbian Americas. It is thought that during the first millennium A.D. the city had around 125,000 people, including multi-ethnic groups such as the Otomi, Zapotec, Mixtec, Maya, and Nahua. If you have a few days in Mexico City, it's worth the day trip . (Teotihuacán is about an hour outside the city by car.) Leave early in the morning so you can be back in the city by mid-day—and bring sunscreen!

Shoe shine stands in the historic Zocalo or plaza in Oaxaca Mexico.

The Centro Zocalo Historico Bodealores   Arrow

The boleadores are dotted around the perimeter of downtown's main square (and almost every other park and plaza in the city) but you'll have a great view of the cathedrals, flagpole, and Palacio Nacional if you get your shoes shined here. Climb up on the elevated perch of the boleador's chair and they will make your boots shine anew. At 50 to 100 pesos ($3 to $6), it's one of the cheapest shoe-shine experiences around. Boleadores are an important part of Mexican street culture and a fixture of pedestrian avenues, a living-breathing mid-century heritage that is not in danger of dying out. But with the proliferation of cheap plastic shoes and mass-market tennis sneakers, "limpiabotes" are a hand-crafted service for giving leather shoes a new life.

MEXICO CITY MEXICO  OCTOBER 30 Terracotta Daughters sculptures a work of art by French visual artist Prune Nourry...

Museo Anahuacalli Arrow

Awesome, grand, and out-of-the-way, Anahuacalli is part studio, part museum, and part shrine for Mexican art that Diego Rivera built as an architectural piece uniting past, present, and future to the natural environment. Rivera's personal and expansive collection of pre-Hispanic figurines, carvings, and totems accumulated over a lifetime. The museum itself was constructed around a swath of rocky terrain Rivera and Khalo had purchased for a farm. The main collection features nearly two thousand figurines representing Olmecs, Toltecs, Nahuas, Zapotecs, the people of Teotihuacan, and those of northeastern Mexico as well as Rivera's sketches for murals. There are also temporary exhibits of more modern Mexican artists, with a recent rotation of 30 textural works by Robert Janitz—paintings, large-format sculptures, and an NFT.

why visit mexico city

Patrick Miller Arrow

From the outside, this dance club looks like dumpy warehouse hidden behind a black gate in Roma Norte. But come on a Friday (the only day it's open), and you'll find a raging party that offers a glimpse of the city's extant disco subculture. An eclectic mix of party-goers show off their moves in dance circles to all kinds of music, from '80s and '90s classics to sub-genres of disco, such as Hi-NRG, Italo, and electro.

Museo Anthropologia Mexico City

Museo Nacional de Antropología Arrow

This massive building in Chapultepec Park is among the city's most famed museums, second only to perhaps the Museo Frida Kahlo . Though the late Mexican architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez designed it in 1964, the mammoth building still looks as avant-garde today as it did then. (How exactly does that giant concrete slab float above a pond?) The museum holds the world's largest collection of ancient Mexican artifacts. Some of the most iconic Mesoamerican artifacts discovered to date can be found across 23 rooms. If you want to understand Mexico's history, then a visit here is a must.

Plaza Garibaldi night mexico city musicians

Plaza Garibaldi Arrow

Mexico's roving mariachi bands have been found in this plaza, a few blocks north of the Palacio de Bellas Artes , since the mid-1900s. Though the plaza has deteriorated over the years, it's seen a resurgence thanks to a city-driven effort to clean up the neighborhood by installing new sidewalks and street lamps. It's a cultural meeting point of sorts, where travelers can come day or night (though the best time to go is after 11 p.m.), to watch bands solicit bar patrons, cars, and passersby to buy a song .

Torre Latinoamericana Mexico City

Torre Latinoamericana Arrow

This 44-story skyscraper, built in 1965, is the tallest building in Centro Histórico . The tower miraculously withstood both the 8.1-magnitude earthquake of 1985 and the 7.1-magnitude quake of September 2017, making it a rare feat of engineering. The Torre defines Mexico City's skyline (much like the Empire State building in New York) and is a useful tool for orienting oneself in downtown. Head to the top-floor observation deck for jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the city, or to the newly renovated bar/restaurant (one floor below), which has equally impressive views and is almost always empty.

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Salón San Luis Arrow

The dance floor at this old-school salon, cloaked in red light, comes alive as locals, tourists, and old timers twirl and shuffle to a live band . Try your hand at salsa, merengue, cumbia, and norteña numbers as waiters in crisp whites with black bow ties circle the room serving liquid courage. There's no shame in bad dancing, so try and learn the steps. (The pros might even show you a thing or two.)

why visit mexico city

Iglesia San Ignacio de Loyola Arrow

A surprisingly tranquil stop in a high-energy city, this infrequently-visited modernist church is tucked away in plain sight in residential Polanco. Designed by famed architect Juan Sordo, it was completed in 1961 and features a sharp triangular structure covered in handmade yellow ceramic tiles. Show up during visiting hours and you can tour the grounds inside and out. Indoors, the Jesuit temple is encased by multi-colored stained glass windows that catch vibrant fractals on sunny days, with an effect almost like being trapped in a kaleidoscope. It's a place of worship and quiet contemplation, yes, but also a haven for architecture nerds.

why visit mexico city

La Rifa Chocolateria Arrow

Indigenous to Mexico, cacao has been consumed in the country and played an important role in Mesoamerican societies since 19th BCE; La Rifa continues the tradition with a small roaster on-site. There are a handful of tables sprinkled in the tree-shaded plaza out front, optimal perches for spending an hour or two. Ask to see their production in the back and they will most likely give a tour. The main event is sipping chocolates—water-based and closest to how cacao was consumed, pre-Columbian, before the introduction of the Spanish (and thus cows and milk). The front-of-house folks are happy to explain the finer nuances of their roasting process, flavor-profiles, and history of Mexican chocolate.

why visit mexico city

Ahuehuete Arrow

This six-seat collection room is a distillate library, a stunning space housed in a centuries-old building in one of Mexico City’s oldest neighborhood. The Porfirio Díaz-era bar and backbar were found in a Puebla antique store and are over 100 years old (once you book here , you'll be notified of the exact location) It'll cost you $75 per-person for a six-spirit sampling, light snacks, and water. Inside, there are only six seats and a knowledgable barkeep/tour guide crafting a rich journey for you and your fellow spirit geeks. While tequila and mezcal are some of Mexico's greatest exports, there are dozens of other plant-based spirits like bacanora, sotol, raicilla, and charanda, distilled in micro-batch quantities in rural communities that never make it into commerical circulation—nor are they intended to. The team behind Ahuehuete has been collecting bottles throughout the years, traveling to rural villages to find interesting batches for their private collection.

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Las Alcobas, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Mexico City

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The Ultimate Travel Guide To Mexico City: What To See & When

Visit Mexico's most underrated destination — its capital! Mexico City has historical attractions, lively markets, and delicious cuisine.

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What to know when visiting mexico’s capital, best time to go, must-see mexico city attractions, where to stay in mexico city, must-eat spots in mexico city, mexico city’s historic locations, tips for staying safe in mexico city, tips for exchanging currency, how to spend the perfect day in mexico city.

Mexico City (CDMX) is the capital of Mexico and is a lively destination unlike anywhere else in the country. The city has a population of more than 8 million people and the surrounding metropolitan area is home to more than 21 million people. As travelers can imagine, this is a busy destination where there is never a dull moment.

Although Mexico City doesn’t boast the beautiful beaches that most people visit Mexico for, it is rich in culture and history. Find out where to go for the best food, when to visit, and how to stay safe while exploring this bustling metropolis.

Mexico City is the center of Mexico in a landlocked state. Many travelers may not realize that Mexico has 32 states, one of which is Ciudad de Mexico (Mexico City).

The capital city became its own state in Mexico’s federation in 2016. The capital of Mexico typically receives more than 3 million tourists annually .

For most travelers, the best time to visit will be between March and May. While the winters in Mexico City are cooler and the summers are when the rainy season occurs, March to May brings dry skies, sunshine, and warm temperatures.

The average high temperature in March in Mexico City is 26ºC and in May it increases slightly to 27ºC.

Related: Why A Vacationer Traveling To Mexico Might Want To Stay In Mexico City (Over An All-Inclusive)

In November temperatures are colder, at an average high of 23ºC with a low of 7ºC. The coolest month of the year in Mexico City is January, with an average high temperature of 21ºC.

Mexico City is a bustling destination with plenty of attractions to see and activities to experience. It’s impossible to see and do it all in a few days, a week, or even a month. However, when travelers have a limited time in CDMX, these are a few of the top attractions they can check out.

The Frida Kahlo Museum is a quirky building with vibrant blue walls that earned it the nickname “The Blue House” in the city. This beautiful museum is dedicated to displaying the works of Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo.

  • Hours : Tuesday 10 AM to 6 PM, Wednesday 11 AM to 6 PM, Thursday to Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM.
  • Entrance Fee: ~$12 USD (~$230 MXN)

Book this tour

Related: 10 Unique Things To Experience In Mexico City

Museo Nacional de Antropología is the biggest museum in Mexico, and it’s also the most visited. The museum first opened its doors in 1964 under the rule of president Adolfo López Mateos.

  • Hours : Tuesday to Saturday 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Entrance Fee: ~$4.30 ($85 MXN)

Travelers seeking green space rather than artwork or historical information can head to Bosque de Chapultepec. This is a massive city park that is one of the largest in Mexico.

Travelers can relax here and enjoy something free when visiting on a budget.

  • Hours : Open 24/7
  • Entrance Fee: Free

When visiting Mexico City, there are a variety of neighborhoods to choose from for accommodation. The area of the city travelers choose to base themselves from will determine how costly their experience in CDMX becomes.

Some popular neighborhoods for digital nomads visiting the city on a budget are La Condesa, Roma Norte, and Roma Sur.

Tourists who want to see the major sites of Mexico City and pay premiums for a trendy neighborhood often prefer Coyoacán. Zona Rosa is a vibrant area for shopping and nightlife.

Luxury hotels:

  • Address: 297 Avenue Paseo De La Reforma, Mexico City, Mexico City Federal District
  • Amenities: Indoor Pool, Restaurant, Spa, and Wellness Center
  • Address: Paseo de la Reforma 439, 06500 Mexico City, Mexico City Federal District
  • Amenities: Indoor Pool, Spa, and Wellness Center, Bar/Lounge

Budget accommodation:

  • Cost: $89 per night for 2 adults
  • Address: 38 San Ildefonso Centro, 06000 Mexico City, Mexico City Federal District
  • Amenities: Game Room, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge
  • Cost: $70 per night for 2 adults
  • Address: República de Guatemala No 4 Colonia Centro, 06020 Mexico City, Mexico City Federal District
  • Amenities: Airport Shuttle, Laundry Facilities, Night Club

Mexico City is one of the best places in the country that travelers can visit for authentic Mexican cuisine. There is an abundance of restaurants for all budgets, street stalls selling tacos, and street food markets happening year-round.

Street food like tacos, tortas, and pambazo are popular in this part of Mexico, as are churros served with hot chocolate.

Related: 10 Best Food Tours You Can Take In Mexico City

The food markets in Mexico City are the heart of the city’s culture, with vibrant colors, a lively atmosphere, and delicious local cuisine at affordable prices.

One of the largest food markets in Mexico City is called Mercado La Merced. It was originally built in the 1860s and today, it occupies multiple buildings spanning several city blocks.

Travelers can spend hours here shopping, exploring, and sampling local street food.

  • Date: Year-round
  • Hours : Monday to Sunday, 5:30 AM to 6 PM

Another popular market to visit that is less traditional and more contemporary is Mercado Roma. This Mexican food market is more like a gourmet food court and first opened its doors to the public in May 2014.

It’s got local cuisine, coffee, beer bars, and more. Mercado Roma is the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening trying street food and having a beer with new friends.

  • Date: Open year-round
  • Hours: Monday to Wednesday, 10 AM to 10:30 PM, Thursday 10 AM to 12:30 AM, Friday to Saturday, 10 AM to 1 AM, Sunday 10 AM to 7:30 PM

Besides the food markets, there are plenty of restaurants that travelers should add to their list of things to try in Mexico City.

  • Best restaurants for breakfast: Café Nin, El Cardenal, Café de Tacuba, Lardo
  • Top eateries for lunch and dinner: Contramar, Quintonil, Café de Tacuba, El Pescadito, Migrante, Limosneros
  • Greatest bars: Hanky Panky Cocktail Bar, Licorería Limantour, Baltra Bar
  • Best coffee shops: Café Passmar, Chiquitito Café, Blend Station, Finca Don Porfirio

Mexico City is one of the oldest mega cities in the Americas, so there is a rich history to explore here. Travelers must visit Plaza de La Constitución, locally referred to as El Zocalo, to see the historic heart of the city.

El Zocalo is the main city square and in addition to the impressive architecture, there is also plenty to do there in the way of entertainment and restaurants.

Related: Long Before The Aztecs, This Ancient City Was One Of Largest In The World (And It's A Day Trip From Mexico City)

Casa de Los Azulejos is another must-see historical attraction in Mexico City. Translated from Spanish, this is the House Of Tiles, an 18th Century building with unique architecture that is now home to a popular restaurant.

  • Hours : Monday to Sunday, 7 AM to 1 AM
  • Entrance Fee: Free (Order food at prices listed on the restaurant menu)

Related: Templo Mayor: The Aztec Temple In Mexico City That You Probably Haven't Heard Of Yet

History buffs and anthropology enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the city’s archeological site called Templo Mayor. This site also has a museum with Aztec artifacts, so travelers can learn about Mexico City’s past.

Before it became the modern-day capital, Templo Mayor was an important structure in Tenochtitlan, the ancient city that Mexico City is built on. This area is now the historic center of Ciudad de Mexico.

  • Hours : Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Entrance Fee: From $8 (Skip-the-line ticket)

Mexico City is often regarded as a dangerous place to travel. But the reality is that, like most major cities, crime exists but typically doesn’t impact tourists.

As long as travelers use their common sense and exercise caution, they can enjoy a safe and fun trip to Mexico City.

Related: 10 Must-Do Things When Visiting Mexico City

Some practical safety measures when visiting Mexico City include:

  • Sticking to areas that are popular among travelers and locals
  • Avoid walking alone at night
  • Try not to look like a tourist (plan a route in advance to avoid looking lost/consulting maps)
  • Watch out for pickpockets
  • Limit the amount of cash and valuables travelers are carrying

As with any major city, it’s a good idea for travelers to know the local emergency contact numbers in case they, or someone around them, requires immediate assistance.

Overall, Mexico City is a safe place to travel when visitors are smart, alert, and stick to the popular areas.

Mexico uses MXN (Mexican Pesos) as its form of currency, so travelers will need to exchange their USD or CAD before paying with cash in Mexico City.

The current exchange rate is 1 USD to 19.62 MXN , however, the exchange rate travelers receive will depend on where they exchange their cash.

Doing so at a bank at home before departure is a good option. However, for travelers coming from another international destination who need to exchange their currency in Mexico, consider doing so at the bank ATMs in the city.

There are opportunities to exchange currency at the airport, but these typically result in less beneficial exchange rates for the traveler.

Mexico City is a common layover destination for travelers flying to other cities in Mexico or South America from Canada or the United States via Aeroméxico. Whether visitors are spending a month working remotely in Mexico City or only have 24 hours on a stopover, the perfect day is easy to replicate.

Start the morning with breakfast or brunch at a popular restaurant like El Cardenal. Then, visit Mercado la Merced for some shopping and sampling of local cuisine during the morning.

By lunchtime, travelers will have made their way to Mercado de Comidas within the market, which is a small food court area to have lunch.

During the afternoon, splurge on museum tickets and appreciate the rich history and culture of the city at the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Museo Nacional de Antropología.

Visit El Zocalo or the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes before grabbing dinner at Migrante or Quintonil, for those feeling fancy. End the night with fun cocktails at Hanky Panky.

Q: How safe is Mexico City?

Mexico City is fairly safe, especially when travelers use common sense during their visit. However, Merida earns the title of the safest city in Mexico .

Crime rates and levels of safety in Mexico City are comparable to Chicago, Illinois , a popular travel destination within the United States.

Q: Is Mexico City worth visiting?

Absolutely, Mexico City is worth visiting. Many people skip over this vibrant city in favor of Mexico’s coastal destinations like Puerto Vallarta or Tulum. Mexico City offers travelers a chance to experience a different side of the country away from the resort towns.

Mexico City   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Torresigner | Getty Images

why visit mexico city

16 Best Things To Do in Mexico City

Mexico City, officially known as Ciudad de México (CDMX), is a growing and vibrant metropolis nestled in the heart of Mexico. The capital city of Mexico offers a blend of history, culture and gastronomy that attracts millions of annual visitors. From

  • All Things To Do

why visit mexico city

Museo Nacional de Antropología Museo Nacional de Antropología

Located within the sprawling Chapultepec Forest , the Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Museum of Anthropology) showcases artifacts from Mexico's pre-Columbian era, dating from about 100 B.C. to A.D. 1521. Housed within the facility’s 22 rooms are artifacts, including the famous Aztec Calendar Stone, known as Piedra del Sol, as well as the ancient statue of Xochipilli, the Aztec god of art, games, beauty, dance and maize (among others). The museum offers a look at how tradition, culture and life were formed in all regions of Mexico, and it also educates visitors on how Mexico’s indigenous descendants live today. 

Past visitors said this is a must-see if you’re interested in the ancient cultures of Mexico/Mesoamerica. Reviewers appreciated that the explanatory text features English translations. The museum is so extensive that many travelers said you can spend a whole day exploring the many collections and exhibits and recommend giving yourself plenty of time to visit. As one of the largest and most visited museums in Mexico, the grounds are also home to a gift shop, a cafeteria and the National Library of Anthropology and History. 

why visit mexico city

Bosque de Chapultepec Bosque de Chapultepec free

The main park in Mexico City, Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Forest) was once the temporary home of the Aztec empire after its citizens migrated to modern-day Mexico City in the 13th century. Today, the 1,600-acre Chapultepec is Mexico City's largest park and is popular among families seeking respite from the busy and crowded city.

Divided into three sections, the park is home to many cultural interests, such as the presidential residence, the former presidential palace, a zoo and several museums (including the highly recommended Museo Nacional de Antropología ). The park also hosts numerous military monuments and effigies of Aztec kings, as well as restaurants and playgrounds, plus lots of green space for stretching. What's more, the park features a large lake, where visitors and locals alike can rent pedal boats to cruise around the water (a particular highlight for kids). On the weekends, local vendors fill the park and sell everything from souvenirs to art to snacks.

why visit mexico city

Palacio de Bellas Artes Palacio de Bellas Artes free

Considered the cultural center of Mexico City, the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts) is a must-visit. The exterior of this 20th-century palace showcases art nouveau and art deco-style architecture, while the inside features marble floors and vaulted glass windows. 

In addition to its architectural grandeur, the building hosts cultural events in the national theater, including music, dance, theater, opera and literary performances. The museum at the palace also houses several famous murals, including the work of the famous Mexican muralist Rufino Tamayo. On the top floor, you'll find the National Museum of Architecture, which showcases the work and lives of famous Mexican architects, and multiple art museums and galleries. 

why visit mexico city

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Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Zócalo attracts throngs of visitors and locals, so visit in the early morning or afternoon during a weekday to avoid the heaviest crowds. – Kayla Hui

Officially known as Plaza de la Constitución, El Zócalo is the main public square and one of the most recognizable places in Mexico City. It’s also one of the world’s largest city squares. It contains a giant Mexican flag at its center and has been the centerpiece of public gatherings since the days of the Aztec empire (it was considered the ceremonial center of Tenochtitlán). The site also hosts annual, widely attended religious events during Holy Week and for Corpus Christi, as well as fairs, concerts, and parades. Several historic buildings also border the square, including the city's national cathedral , the National Palace  and federal buildings.

why visit mexico city

Museo Frida Kahlo Museo Frida Kahlo

One of the best-known museums in Mexico City exhibits the life and work of its most famous artist: Frida Kahlo. The museum, located in the Coyoacan suburb, is also known as La Casa Azul (The Blue House), and was Kahlo's former residence. It hosts some impressive examples of her works, but travelers say that the best part of visiting the house is seeing where the artist lived and painted with her husband, artist Diego Rivera. Along with paintings by both artists, folk art, photos, documents, books and furnishings, the house also displays personal objects.

Recent visitors to the property said it's a must-see for fans of the artist, saying it shows her life and work in a very personal light. Reviewers were particularly impressed with the display of her clothing and dresses. If you want to take photos, there is an additional modest “permit” fee. 

why visit mexico city

Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe free

U.S. News Insider Tip: During the summer months, pack a hat and water bottle (there is little shade within the complex). If you plan to use the bathroom on site, bring a couple of pesos with you to use the bathroom and buy toilet paper. – Kayla Hui 

The Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe (Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe) is an important religious site in Mexico City. Construction for the first shrine built to honor the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe started in 1695 on Tepeyac Hill. However, nearly 300 years' worth of construction and environmental damage threatened the integrity of the basilica, so a new basilica was built on the same plaza in the 1970s.

why visit mexico city

Templo Mayor Templo Mayor

Before Spanish colonization, Templo Mayor served as the religious center for the Aztec people. When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the early 16th century, the temple was among many structures that were destroyed and a new cathedral was built on top of the ruins. It wasn't until 1978 that the temple dedicated to the Aztec gods Huitzilopochtli and Tláloc (gods of war and water) was unearthed in the heart of Mexico City. Today, the area remains an active archeological site and the adjoining museum houses thousands of  artifacts, including 2,500 wooden objects from the site. 

Recent visitors said it's fascinating to see the ancient ruins that are tucked away in the center of the city. Many said it's worth spending time in the museum as well, but the site and scale can't match up to the massive Museo Nacional de Antropología . Still, the whole complex has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Mexico City's most popular attractions. If you’re visiting during the summer months, travelers suggest you time your visit for the morning to avoid the sweltering midday heat. Reviewers also warn that most of the information is listed in Spanish only.

why visit mexico city

Museo de Arte Popular Museo de Arte Popular

U.S. News Insider Tip: Ditch the large bags and water bottles prior to your visit as you may be denied entry. – Kayla Hui

This folk art museum features handicrafts from all across Mexico and details the country's history and its many cultures. If you want to find out more about the country’s indigenous communities, this is the place to go, according to travelers. Exhibits include glasswork from Tecali, pottery from Michoacán, masks from Chiapas and alebrijes , the colorful painted animal figures from Oaxaca, among other treasures. Make sure to take time to admire the building itself – the 1920s art deco building was the former headquarters of the fire department.

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why visit mexico city

Chalpultepec Castle Chalpultepec Castle

U.S. News Insider Tip: Sundays are free for all residents of Mexico and expats living in Mexico, so try to avoid visiting that day if you can. It can get crowded, so it’s recommended to go in the morning when the castle first opens. – Kayla Hui

Constructed beginning in 1725, Chalpultepec Castle has served many purposes in its centuries of use; it was a military academy, an observatory, and the only castle in North America to house rulers, including Emperor Maximilian I and his wife Empress Carlota. It would later be established as the National Museum of History by Lázaro Cárdenas in 1939, which would open the castle to visitors. Located at the entrance of Chalpultepec Park , it’s a historical site that can’t be missed on your next visit to Mexico City. 

why visit mexico city

Catedral Metropolitana Catedral Metropolitana free

Mexico's national cathedral – the vaulting, austere, ornate church on the Zócalo' s north end – was once the site of an ancient Aztec precinct, so it has housed the city's spiritual core for centuries. The cathedral was built between 1573 and 1813 after the Spanish conquest of Tenochtitlan and is considered one of Mexico City's many must-see attractions. What’s more, the cathedral is one of the largest churches in Latin America. It’s believed that the materials used to construct the church were taken from the destroyed pyramids and structures belonging to the Aztecs. Highlights of the massive cathedral include five naves, 14 chapels, two of the largest 18th-century organs in the Americas, 150 windows and a painting by famed Spanish artist Bartolome Esteban Murillo.

Depending on your interest in Mexican history and architecture, you could spend anywhere from an hour to a half a day at the cathedral (it’s free to enter). Past visitors recommended paying to take a tour of the interior with a member of the cathedral’s staff, who reviewers say offer a wealth of information about the cathedral’s far-reaching history. According to recent visitors, tours cost approximately 100 Mexican pesos (about $6). Recent visitors said the massive structure is stunning to behold, and even if you don't want to take the time to explore the inside, it's worth the photo-op of the exterior. The cathedral is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and admission is free. Many of the best Mexico City walking tours make stops here, which can be another way to hear an in-depth retelling of the cathedral’s history and significance.  For more information, including Mass times, visit the cathedral's website (in Spanish).

why visit mexico city

Museo Soumaya Museo Soumaya free

From exceptional architecture to more than 66,000 featured works, Museo Soumaya is one of Mexico City’s most iconic museums. Established in 1994, Museo Soumaya’s main goal is to preserve and exhibit Mexico and Europe’s artistry. Currently, it houses the largest collection of works by Auguste Rodin outside of France, in addition to artwork by Diego Rivera, Titian, Picasso, Monet and more. 

Beyond the art, the architecture alone is worth seeing. The exterior of the six-story building is wrapped in mirrored hexagons, and the building is the brainchild of Mexican architect Fernando Romero. Recent travelers say Museo Soumaya is reminiscent of New York City’s Guggenheim (both museums are architecturally stunning and feature a circular interior with each floor organized by art type). Some reviewers recommend starting your visit at the top and winding your way down. 

why visit mexico city

Palacio Nacional Palacio Nacional free

The National Palace holds the federal executive branch of the Mexican government and sits along Mexico City's main public square, El Zócalo . The palace itself is a massive, ornate building that contains several gardens, murals and fountains in the Spanish Renaissance architectural style. Its highlights are several Diego Rivera murals painted in panoramic style across the palace's walls, which past visitors say are a must-see. These murals depict the stages of Mexican history, from pre-Columbian days to the current age.

Because the Mexican president lives and works within the palace, visitors can only access the site on a guided tour. Tours are free, but can’t be booked in advance online. According to recent visitors, you must go to the ticket office at the Museum of Art of the Ministry of Finance & Public Credit, where you can inquire about tour availability and make reservations in person (this is also where tours depart from). Some reviewers reported success booking tickets in advance by emailing [email protected] with information about the preferred tour date and number of people attending. Along the approximately hourlong tours, you’ll see the Rivera mural collections and the courtyards. You may also get the chance to glimpse the exterior of the legislative chambers. 

why visit mexico city

Museo Casa Luis Barragán Museo Casa Luis Barragán

Luis Barragán was a prominent Mexican architect renowned for his modernist style, and his former home – which was first constructed in 1947 and now functions as a museum – is one of the finest examples of his work. The museum is an off-the-beaten-path attraction that travelers say will please all, even those not schooled in architectural history. The house is known for its vivid colors, brilliant use of natural light and its impressive garden with a maze of corridors and trees. In 2004, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Recent visitors said the history of the house, in addition to its interesting architecture, is captivating. However, a handful of recent reviewers were disappointed with the ticket reservation process. To visit, you must book a self-guided or guided tour (available in Spanish and English). Self-guided visits are only available on Thursdays at select times. Tickets for self-guided tours cost 450 Mexican pesos (about $26) per person (note that children 12 and younger are not permitted in the house). Guided tours are available at select times Monday through Wednesday, Friday and Saturday Tickets for guided tours cost more. Tickets are released every Tuesday at noon (Mexico City time).  

why visit mexico city

Private Tour: Teotihuacan and Guadalupe Shrine

(609 reviews)

from $ 159.99

Private City Tour in Frida Kahlo, Coyoacan, and Xochimilco

Private City Tour in Frida Kahlo, Coyoacan, and Xochimilco

(271 reviews)

from $ 175.00

Balloon Flight in Teotihuacan with Breakfast in Natural Cave

Balloon Flight in Teotihuacan with Breakfast in Natural Cave

(215 reviews)

from $ 182.58

why visit mexico city

Torre Latinoamericana Torre Latinoamericana

Open since 1956, Torre Latinoamericana, the 44-story skyscraper in Centro Histórico, is the place to go if you want the best views of the city. Similar to the Empire State Building in New York City , this tower offers visitors jaw-dropping views from its observation deck and restaurant, making it the perfect opportunity to pull out your camera for that Instagram-worthy picture. 

Recent visitors recommended heading up to the top of the tower during sunset to admire the shifting light as it illuminates buildings like the neighboring Palace of Fine Arts. Travelers also warned that if smog levels are high, you won’t be able to see much from the tower’s peak. Some reviewers recommend spending time in the on-site museum, which details the history of Mexico City and the construction of the tower. 

why visit mexico city

Teotihuacán Teotihuacán

U.S. News Insider Tip: There is no shade inside the archeological site, so you’ll want to wear a hat. It’s also helpful to have a small backpack to hold a water bottle, sunscreen and toilet paper to use in the washrooms at the site. – Kayla Hui

One of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Mexico City region, Teotihuacán ( teh -o-tee-wa- can ) contains some of the largest pre-Hispanic pyramids in all of Mexico. The site contains many popular constructions, including the Palace of the Plumed Butterfly, which showcases various columns of winged creatures, and the awesome Pyramid of the Sun, which sits at the heart of the small city. The nearby museum, Museo de la Sitio, also holds many artifacts from the period.

why visit mexico city

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) free

The Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico (Central University City Campus of the National University of Mexico) includes 32 academic programs, the Mexican Olympic stadium, a Mexican cultural center, a nature preserve and the city's Central Library. The main campus is now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city's famous muralists have made their mark on the campus, and travelers recommend you check out the work of famous painter David Alfaro Siqueiros at the Rectorate Tower or the work of Juan O'Gorman at the Central Library. The campus also holds the University Museum of Contemporary Art, an excellent spot for viewing Mexico's more recent cultural offerings. The sculpture garden at the art museum is a particular highlight for past visitors, as is the botanic garden.

why visit mexico city

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Why Visit Mexico City

The 10 Best Reasons to Visit Mexico City in 2024

Last updated on March 7th, 2024 at 10:00 pm

Affiliate Disclosure: This post on Reasons to Visit Mexico City contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions are entirely my own.

Why visit mexico city.

This is a question I must have been asked dozens of times, usually with a perplexed look and a raised eyebrow, in the weeks leading up to a long overdue girlfriend getaway to this bustling city of 22 million.

why visit mexico city

I had visited Mexico City twice before, with this Latin American hub being a common stopover for cheap flights to South America (like a memorable double red-eye to Quito). On those trips, I had been lucky enough to have a friend living in the city. She was a superb host and her well chosen Mexico City highlights made me fall head-over-heels in love with the city’s vibrant beauty.

Mexico City won out over several other destinations for our friends’ getaway because it seemed to meet our lengthy criteria. We were looking for somewhere that was culturally rich, had progressive cuisine, interesting design, good shopping, and yet, was affordable.

Mexico City Street Art

A direct flight was an added bonus as we were coming from different cities (you may be aware that we are not currently in the golden age of travel and flying is a real drag).

In the end, our long weekend in Mexico City was exactly what we wanted it to be. If you are wondering “Is Mexico City worth visiting?”, I sure hope the following list will convince you to give it a try!

10 REASONS TO VISIT MEXICO CITY

1. exceptional food.

You would be hard pressed to find a foodie publication that has not mentioned the amazing chefs, restaurants and street food in Mexico City in recent years. From mouth-watering, flavour-packed tacos and tortas, to progressive and elevated dishes in stunningly beautiful dining rooms, you could spend months exploring the options.

Polpo - Roma Norte Restaurants

TIP: Make reservations early! Top tables such as Enrique Olvera’s Pujol , Gabriela Cámara’s Contramar , Ecuardo and Gabriela Garcia’s Máximo Bistrot and Jorge Vallejo’s Quintonil book out months in advance. They are all well worth the effort though!

Quintonil, Best Polanco Restaurants

No luck with reservations? Go on the waitlist. At the 11th hour, we managed to secure a 9:45pm reservation at Quintonil (with a little nudge from our hotel concierge at the lovely Casa Dovela ).

If you have a sweet tooth, Mexico City will not disappoint! From pastries to churros, you can keep the sugar high going all day!

why visit mexico city

2. THE SUPERB WEATHER

Mexico City’s subtropical climate means that it is comfortably warm for most of the year. Daytime highs range from 22-28°C (72-83°F). Nights are cooler with a range of 6-14°C (43-57°F).

When to visit Mexico City

When is the best time to visit Mexico City?

March to May is the best time of year to visit Mexico City. The days are warm and there is typically little rain. It is also the time of the year when the beautiful Jacaranda trees bloom, making what is already a very colourful city even brighter.

Jacaranda Trees Mexico

June through September is low season with the warmest and wettest weather. The winter months of November to February are cooler but there is little rain.

NOTE: During our recent April trip, we had weather that was more typical of summer, with thunder showers every afternoon. We simply planned accordingly, visiting galleries and other indoor venues late in the day and enjoying neighbourhood strolls and outdoor dining in the mornings and early afternoons.

3. IT’S SO GREEN

One of the most surprising things to discover about Mexico City is how green it is. From living walls to shaded promenades, there is beautiful foliage everywhere!

why visit mexico city

Mexico City’s Chapultepec Park, (also referred as the city’s “lungs”) is an astounding 686 hectares, making it twice as big as NYC’s Central Park. This green-space gem borders some of the city’s most desirable neighborhoods (Condesa, Roma, Polanco etc.) and plays host to walkers, joggers, dancers, cyclists, dog trainers and more.

why visit mexico city

Many of Mexico’s City’s neighbourhood streets are also separated by lush boulevards, perfect for strolling or jogging.

why visit mexico city

Cycling in Mexico City

In 2022, Mexico City expanded its bike share program. While cycling in Mexico City may not be for everyone, Chapultepec Park and Sundays on Paseo de la Reforma (when the street is closed to traffic) are two great places to give it a try.

TIP: This guide on how to use the Ecobici bike share program in Mexico City will help you sail through the new user learning curve.

4. THE MUSEUMS

Did you know that Mexico City has more than 150 museums? Most visitors make a beeline for Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul (which is, of course, a must-see), but there are so many more to choose from.

You could spend days in Chapultepec Park alone, for example, with 9 different museums to choose from including the very highly regarded Museo Nacional de Antropología and the contemporary Museo Tamayo .

Another whole day could be spent exploring the museums in the upscale Polanco neighbourhood. The Museo Soumaya houses the personal collection of Carlos Slim (one of the richest people in the world) including works by Diego Rivera and Rufino Tamayo, as well those of many European masters.

BONUS: The Soumaya is open seven days a week and is always free.

Museo Soumaya, Mexico City

When you have had your fill of the classics, hop next door to The Jumex contemporary museum where you will find works by Damien Hurst, Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons and more.

Also notable is the much photographed Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City’s Centro Histórico. This unique building houses murals by Diego Rivera and Rufino Tamayo and is an important performing arts centre.

why visit mexico city

See also the 15 Best Museums in Mexico City (Road Affair)

NOTE: Most museums close on Mondays.

5. THE MARKETS

To immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of a market day is a quintessential Mexico City experience. Whether you want to wander through the fragrant Jamaica flower market, sample the fresh fruit and veggies at Roma’s Mercado Medellín, or shop for traditional Mexican souvenirs at La Cuidadela in the Historical Center, a market visit is sure to enrich your Mexico City trip (and lighten your wallet).

Mexico City Markets

If you are visiting Mexico City over a weekend, try to squeeze in a Saturday visit to Él Bazar Sabado . Located at Plaza San Jacinto in San Angel, this market has a wonderful selection of higher-end handmade souvenirs, textiles, ceramics, jewelry, artwork and more.

SEE ALSO: The Best Markets in Mexico City (The Culture Trip)

San Angel Market - El Bazar Sabado (Mexico City Markets)

6. IT’S FOR DOG LOVERS

Did know that Mexico comes in 2nd for pet ownership in the world (after the U.S.), and that 80% of those pets are dogs? This is no more evident than in Mexico City.

Dogs in Mexico City

You will see these beloved family pets everywhere, but especially in the upscale neighbourhoods of Condesa, Polanco and Roma. It’s also very common to see trainers or dog walkers on the way to/from a park with up to 8 four-legged companions.

why visit mexico city

NOTE: Want to bring your pup to Mexico City? Almost all the major hotels are happy to welcome you canine friend for a stay (an additional fee is typical).

7. THE DIRECT FLIGHTS

Mexico City’s Benito Juárez International Airport has non-stop service from over 15 U.S. airports, as well as Vancouver, Canada. You can wake up to freezing rain and be enjoying tacos and a cerveza in the sunshine by noon!

why visit mexico city

8. FASCINATING DAY TRIPS

While there are tons of interesting activities to keep visitors busy for weeks in Mexico City, there are also some really interesting day trips that shouldn’t be missed.

Teotihucán DAY TRIP

This UNESCO World Heritage site is thought to have been constructed around 400 B.C. (by whom is still up for debate). The site was rediscovered by the Aztecs in the 1400s, becoming a sacred site that they named Teotihuacán , meaning “the city of the gods”.

why visit mexico city

TIP: Although Teotihuacán is only 50km (30 miles) from central Mexico City, the traffic can be a nightmare. It is well worth getting on a very early Teotihuacán tour or even splurging on a private excursion. (Context Travel does a very good Teotihuacán private tour .)

SEE ALSO: Teotihacán Day Trips from Viator .

Xochimilco DAY TRIP

Also making for a very interesting day trip is spending a lively afternoon floating through the Xochimilco canals on a trajinera (gondola). These waterways were part of an important transportation network going back to the time of the Aztecs.

Visitors can reach Xochimilco easily by private car, taxi or Uber from central Mexico City. Provisions can be purchased at the dock before boarding but you can also expect to be approached along the way by numerous floating businesses selling everything from roasted corn, to jewelry, to mariachi services.

Xochimilco trajinera

SEE ALSO: Tours to Xochimilco with Viator.com . (These tours often conveniently combine a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum and the colonial Coyoacán neighbourhood.)

Colonial City DAY TRIPS

The beautiful colonial cities of Puebla and San Miguel de Allende can be explored as day trips from Mexico City , although if you have more time, spending a night our two might be much more enjoyable.

9. THE ARCHITECTURE

If you are a fan of interesting architecture, Mexico City is a brilliant city to explore. From the pre-hispanic to the most avant-guard, contemporary structures, the capital has something interesting to see at every turn.

Architecture Mexico City

If you prefer to explore city sites on your own, the app GPSmyCity (Freemium model) has some excellent Mexico City neighbourhood walking tour options. If you prefer a more formal architectural tour, take a peek at the Roma and Condesa Architecture Tour by Context Travel.

SEE ALSO: Why Mexico City is a Modern Mecca for Architects (Architizer Journal)

10. THE COST

A trip to Mexico City can be very affordable in comparison to other major cities! Hotel stays, dining, and taxis (or Ubers) should cost roughly 30-40% less than most other North American vacation destinations.

why visit mexico city

Part of this affordability equation is simply due to the face that the cost of living is lower in Mexico. Another driving factor, however, is that since 2020, many Americans (and Canadians) have been choosing domestic travel over international. This has driven the cost of accommodation, car rentals and flight prices through the roof in popular vacation spots such as Phoenix, Palm Springs and Maui.

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11 reasons why you should visit mexico city immediately.

Lifestyle Editor, HuffPost México

Chapultepec Castle with Mexico City's skyline in the background.

Mexico City has now become a major player on quite a few places-to-visit lists. International guidebooks, the most prestigious travel newsletters, chefs and designers have set their sights on this great city. Residents of Mexico City, also known as Chilangos, who simultaneously love and hate it, know very well why they stay and why they always recommend it to travelers from all over the world.

The Mexican capital has evolved without losing sight of its history, but the best thing it’s done is to simply be itself. The local cuisine is delicious, and the nightlife includes both interesting dives and luxury bars. Socially responsible fashion is booming, too, and there are more contemporary art offerings now than ever before.

The HuffPost Mexico staff chose locations and experiences —new and/or reinvented — that help keep Mexico City among the most attractive cities in the world.

1. Eat Like a Local

A post shared by Eat Like A Local Mexico City (@eatlikealocalmx) on Nov 11, 2017 at 4:03pm PST

The country’s culinary riches are in the markets, homes and streets. Eat Like a Local , a project by Rocío Vázquez Landeta , seeks to take travelers on a journey to discover Mexico City through its food, its traditions and its people.

Tourists can choose from several options that run from the most exclusive restaurants to tours through the markets, where they try typical C hilango munchies and taste delicious tacos, pulque , beer and mezcal in stunning locations, all while meeting new people.

“Eat Like a Local is not a tourism company, but a platform through which you discover the best and most original aspects from different areas of the capital, in the company of a good friend,” Rocío says. “My intention is to show travelers the day-to-day Mexico through the folklore of its markets and its people’s traditions. I don’t take them to the typical recommendations you find in travel guides; I design ‘culinary expeditions’ tailored to their tastes and interests.”

Since a big part of the tours involves public transportation and walking (because that’s how you really get to know a city, after all), the groups are generally small, 10 people max.

2. La Guerrerense

Sabina Bandera of La Guerrense

La Guerrerense ’s obligatory stand in Ensenada just opened a location in the Mexican capital.

This shellfish bar was established in 1960 by Alberto Oviedo and his wife, Celia Carranza. Now, pay attention: Their son was Eduardo Oviedo, who married Sabina Bandera. She is better known as La Güerita or La Guerrerense . Sabina says that she didn’t know how to work with seafood because, in her native state of Guerrero, she worked in agriculture and with dairy products. It was in Ensenada where her in-laws taught her about seafood. Step by step, Sabina innovated the business, creating more than 13 sauces, all organic and preservative-free. She grows some of the chiles they use at their stand.

Don’t miss the pismo clam tostada, and certainly don’t miss the sea urchin tostada, a delicacy.

3. La Casa Rivas Mercado

why visit mexico city

In the heart of the Guerrero district sits one of the prettiest buildings in Mexico City. Built during the 19 th century by porfirista architect Antonio Rivas Mercado, it just reopened to the public after nine years of reconstruction. “Restoring the 6,350 square feet meant fighting the sinking and structural decay, while also being respectful of its eclectic style, with seven variations of cantera stones and its 50,000 types of encaustic mosaics, tiles and English floors,” notes the federal Department of Culture.

4. Petit comité accommodation

why visit mexico city

In one of the most central and cosmopolitan neighborhoods, La Condesa, there’s a spot that takes travelers on an experience of luxury and comfort: Casa Decu .

Casa Decu is a 27-room boutique hotel that, immersed in the Mexican Art Deco scene, “has been conceived both to enjoy the area’s amenities as well as the facilities themselves and, of course, satisfy any traveler’s needs, like internet, continental breakfast and a laundry room.”

This gem, which stands out among the city’s hotel offerings, has rooms equipped with full kitchens, a 24/7 gym and a sensational rooftop that serves as a breakfast area in the morning and a relaxation spot with a panoramic view of the city during the afternoon and evening.

5. Take a ride through the c hinampas

A post shared by Liliana López (@lilixlopez) on Jul 25, 2017 at 7:39am PDT

Going for a ride in a trajinera (a flat-bottomed boat) has been a popular and traditional activity for ages, but one way to improve the experience is to go through the chinampas , which are centers where they harvest vegetables that —depending on the time of the year and yield— are sold to renowned Mexico City restaurants, such as Pujol and Sud 777 .

The chinampa is an artificial harvesting system built in areas in which water is the main natural resource; the aquifer is called “ humedal” (wetland). They’re built for harvesting plants and vegetables.

This harvesting system is placed in the shallow areas of lakes and doesn’t require artificial irrigation or rain water, since its location means water is always readily available.

6. Salón Los Ángeles

why visit mexico city

Go back in time, and don’t worry about bringing a dancing partner, because you’re sure to find one here. “This emblematic place, a flagship of urban life, opened its doors in 1937 and to this day, it hasn’t closed for any reasons,” reads the famous dance hall’s website, and now it would seem that new trends have breathed new life into it. In this venue for danzón, chachachá, swing and mambo , what stands out today is its authenticity.

7. Ruta de la Amistad

This year marks the 50 th anniversary of the Ruta de la Amistad (Friendship Road), a set of 22 large sculptures created by world-famous artists for the 1968 Mexico Olympics. The project was the brainchild of Mathias Goeritz, a German-born Mexican painter, sculptor and artist.

Wandering the 10.5-mile-long sculpture corridor means touring the southern area of the Mexican capital, an area that has had constant transformations, the most important possibly being the construction of the second floor of the Periférico , a beltway that borders Mexico City (but which also put some of the sculptures at risk).

For over 25 years, the sculptures in the Ruta de la Amistad have fallen victim to abandonment, but different conservation groups have helped repair them. Now, the Patronato de la Ruta de la Amistad (Friendship Road Board) aims to have this group of sculptures declared a historical monument to ensure its protection.

7. All the amazing restaurants

Sábado de Gloria y Ánimo! Gracias @gastrogrammx por La foto tan chula! #birriamen A post shared by Ay Caldos! (@animomx) on Apr 15, 2017 at 9:12am PDT

Caldos Ánimo is the creation of chef Antonio de Livier. Birriamen , the perfect combination of birria and ramen, is a hit among the locals of the Nápoles district at his restaurant Ánimo .

WanWan Sakaba is a small restaurant in which you’ll feel as if you were in a traditional Japanese tavern ( izakaya ) while having luscious noodles with beer and sake. There are no tables, just a bar.

Sud 777 offers contemporary cuisine with Mexican-grown ingredients. Chef Édgar Núñez designs the menu seasonally.

You can’t miss the food at Pujol , which has earned the fourth spot on the list of the 50 best restaurants in Latin America. It’s run by chef Enrique Olvera, who has two restaurants in New York City.

Quintonil offers a menu that strongly showcases the flavors and techniques of chef Jorge Vallejo’s contemporary Mexican cuisine.

8. Monumento a la Revolución

why visit mexico city

History, modernity and unforgettable sunsets: This is what you’ll get during your view from Monumento a la Revolución .

From the Monumento a la Revolución , you’ll be able to take in one of the best views of the city. You’ll also learn about the historical building whose construction stopped in 1912 due to a diversion of funds, which were owed to the revolutionary movement that was taking place. In addition, you’ll be able to have a coffee while enjoying this vista brimming with history.

10. Luis Barragán House

A post shared by ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀ PAOLA (@paolaelizondo) on Oct 22, 2014 at 10:34am PDT

Built in 1948, the house and study that belonged to Luis Barragán, one of the most famous Mexican architects in the world, has been named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The reason: “It’s the only individual property in Latin America that has earned such honor because it’s a masterpiece within the Modern Movement of architecture, creating a new blend of traditional and vernacular elements and different philosophical and artistic movements from all ages.”

With the eye-catching colors of its interior but restrained façade, Luis Barragán’s house was built on a small street in the old Tacubaya neighborhood and is surrounded by traditional houses, workshops and small stores.

The house, which you can visit by appointment, has also hosted exhibits by other artists. Last year this architectonic gem was the setting for the Mármol Rosa (Pink Marble) exhibit by Cypriot artist Christodoulos Panayiotou. His concept was to recontextualize and redefine personal household elements that evoke Luis Barragán’s spirituality, sensibility and sources of inspiration.

11. Lorena Saravia Boutique

A post shared by LORENA SARAVIA (@lorenasaravia) on Jan 4, 2018 at 6:04pm PST

This local brand is affordable luxury that wants to “be Mexico’s most important all-purpose fashion brand and secure the country’s untapped niche that falls somewhere between fast fashion and high fashion,” according to its creator, Lorena Saravia.

The Mexican designer works with traditional silk producers in Oaxaca. She recently released a collection made from this silk and ran a charity sale to help victims from September’s earthquake.

This article was first published by HuffPost Mexico.

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Mexico City Travel Tips: Dos and Don’ts To Know Before You Go

Make your trip to Mexico City a fantastic one with some insider tips

Northern England Writer

Mexico City is a large and densely populated cultural and financial hub worth exploring. But before you gulp tap water after a spicy meal, read Culture Trip’s guide to ensure you avoid rookie mistakes.

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You probably know that Mexico City is Mexico ’s capital, that the currency is the Mexican peso and that the official language is Spanish (although there are hundreds of indigenous languages still in use). But it’s always good to get a lay of the land before you visit and find a place to stay – and not just because it’s the most populous city in North America. This list will help you discover the gaps in your knowledge so that you can spend more time enjoying your trip.

People from Mexico City are known as chilangos

Sometimes you’ll hear Mexico City referred to as chilangolandia , just as the US will be called gringolandia . Chilango is not an epithet, and the word gringo can either have a pejorative undertone or be used affectionately. So, it’s best not to assume and just brush off any time you hear the words.

why visit mexico city

Avoid the metro at the hora pico

The metro’s hora pico (rush hour) in Mexico City occurs from roughly 6am to 9am and 6pm to 9pm each day. The crowds are overwhelming, and if you aren’t familiar with the local lines, you could end up stressed and frustrated. If it’s avoidable, skip the hora pico . You can plan your travel around it and be thankful you did.

Do try the food

Mexican cuisine is some of the world’s best, and it is heavily oriented towards street-food dishes, such as tortas, tacos and tamales, to name but a few. When visiting Mexico, you should absolutely make it a priority to try as much of the food on offer as possible, but stick to vendors that seem busy or have a line. Residents know which ones to pick to avoid playing a game of chance with food poisoning.

Chilies, spices and mole make Mexican food unbelievably delicious

Tortillas, corn and chili are three crucial culinary components

If you don’t like these ingredients, you’ll have to grow to like them and quickly! Almost all Mexican food is made up of various combinations of tortillas, corn and chili, plus cheese, meat and beans. Tacos, gorditas, tlayudas – the list goes on. Although, in Mexico City, quesadillas don’t come with cheese as standard, so make sure you mention that you want them con queso . Also, they add chili to everything in Mexico – even fruit.

Be discerning about spicy foods

On a related culinary note, Mexican spice standards might be graded on a different scale than what you’re used to. It’s best to ask for any spicy ingredients on the side ( en el lado ) so that you can add them in moderation without rendering your meal inedible. If you’re a fan of spice, by all means, test the waters and see if you can handle the heat.

Tortillas are extremely prevalent in Mexico, as are spicy sauces

Don’t drink the tap water – or have drinks with ice cubes

While you should try the food, you definitely should not drink the tap water. It will make you sick and could put a damper on your stay. You may know to stick to bottled water, but there are other ways you might ingest the water that won’t immediately come to mind. Keep an eye out for what your salad is washed in, and think twice before accepting ice cubes. Even if you do everything right, the chances are high that you will get an upset tummy at one point or another on your trip to Mexico . Don’t fret about it – just avoid spicy street food for a while and drink plenty of rehydrating electrolytes.

Corona is not the national beer of Mexico

While it might be one of the most readily available and popular Mexican beers outside the country (although it’s not exactly unpopular in Mexico either), it is by no means the national beer. Beer isn’t even the national drink – tequila is! Cerveza is popular, though, and there are plenty to choose from, including Modelo, Tecate, Victoria and Sol, among others.

As a rule, tip 10 percent in restaurants and bars

While tipping is more important in Mexico than, say, the UK, it’s far less important than in the US, for example. As a general rule, tip a minimum of 10 percent to servers and anyone else who has to bring the bill to your table. Street-food stalls generally don’t require tipping, nor do taxi drivers – that’s not to say that your tips won’t be welcomed, though.

Food vendors don’t expect tips, but they do appreciate it

Don’t take taxis from the street

On the subject of taxis, don’t hail them from the street. If you’re at all concerned about kidnapping (which has been an unfortunate reality in the past), stick to official cab stands like those at the airport, or take Ubers wherever you go.

Know about neighborhoods before you go

Every major city has safe areas and ones that are less so – though the touristy areas are usually fine. In Mexico City, visitors often find themselves in the pleasant neighborhoods of Roma, Condesa, Coyoacán and Polanco, among others. If you do prefer going off the beaten path, remember to do a quick internet search using reliable sources for the latest news and trends, and be conscious of your urban surroundings.

There’s more to the city than the historic center

Many tourists will hit up the big monuments, destinations and famous restaurants the second they arrive in the city. While the tourist attractions are popular for a reason, there’s so much more to this enormous city than the historic center and the Zócalo (the main square). Head south to check out San Ángel and the Xochimilco canals , or go to Santa María la Ribera in the north.

The Xochimilco canals offer beautiful tours along the water

Mexico City is not Cancún

Many tourists associate Mexico with perpetually great weather, but that isn’t always the case in the capital – although it might be more so on the coast. Keep in mind that people in this area don’t often wear shorts, and it’s always a good call to check local weather reports before packing. Mexico City can get quite cold, and it rains a lot from June to September.

Don’t flush the toilet paper

This one is pretty straightforward, although it can seem weird to some foreigners. Most places in Mexico have plumbing that isn’t equipped to deal with toilet paper, so make sure to throw your used tissue in the bin that’s in the cubicle.

Mexico City is prone to earthquakes

Be aware that there may be an earthquake when you’re in Mexico City and that it’s not an uncommon occurrence. As a result, procedures are well drilled into residents, and there is a city-wide alarm that will sound approximately 20 seconds before an earthquake is predicted to hit. If you hear it, get outside and head to the closest available meeting point. They look like this and can be found everywhere .

Mexican Spanish is not Castellano

If you speak Spanish, and it was peninsular Spanish that you learned, arriving in Mexico might be a bit of a shock to the system. The accent is different – with far more ‘s’ sounds than its peninsular counterpart – and so is the vocabulary. Some keywords you need to know are mande (‘pardon?’), ahorita (literally ‘right now,’ but in practice anywhere from ‘now’ to ‘never’), camion (‘bus’), con permiso (‘excuse me,’ as in ‘can I get past you?’). Oh, and coger means something naughty in Mexico, so don’t try to coger the bus.

If you want to know one swear word, it should be chingar

Chingar is ubiquitous in Mexico . You’ll hear it bandied about between friends, shouted from car windows by angry drivers who are sick of being cut off for the umpteenth time that day and at football games . Basically meaning ‘to fuck,’ chingar is commonly used in expressions like chingue a su madre (go fuck yourself) and vete a la chingada (also, go fuck yourself). Other favorites include pendejo and hijo de su puta madre . Check out our guide for more Mexican slang words you should know .

Independence Day is September 16, not May 5

This one is self-explanatory.

Don’t take shots of tequila

It’s customary to sip, instead of tipping it back.

Alex Wexelman contributed additional reporting to this article.

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The ultimate guide to Mexico City

Mexico City is the largest city in North America and the capital of Mexico. The city has so much history and culture, making it a top travel destination for visitors across the world. 

We recently came back from a 4-day trip to  Cuidad de Mexico and we already can’t wait to plan another trip to visit again. I’ve visited Mexico City many times growing up as a kid, but experiencing the culture and the region as an adult was an entirely different experience. Our trip was kid-free, so we were able to pack in plenty to do while on our visit. 

why visit mexico city

While there is plenty to do for families, we focused our time visiting cultural landmarks and dining out, which likely would not be of interest to young kids. 

Here’s our recommendations on the best things to see and do when visiting Mexico City. 

History of Mexico City 

Let’s start off with a little bit of history on Ciudad de Mexico. 

Mexico City is one of the oldest cities and it was built on ruins nearly 700 years ago. Its home to 8.8 million people and the city welcomes 12 million visitors every single year (that’s a whole lot of tourists)! 

why visit mexico city

Mexico City’s old age means its home to so much history and culture in every corner. With the continuous expansion of the ancient city over the years, it has led to the city sinking. 

YES- Mexico City is sinking. 

How is Mexico City sinking?

The original foundation that was built hundreds and hundreds of years ago is beginning to crack. 

The city was originally built over a lake when the Spanish drained the lake to expand their colony. Today, the city has already sunk over 30 feet. In order to preserve its foundation, the city is constantly needing to restructure buildings and extract excess water from under foundations. 

You’ll likely see blocked off areas and construction sites while visiting cultural centers and downtown as they work to preserve the city.

Why visit Mexico City? 

Mexico City has something for everyone and if you have not visited yet, it is a place to add to your list. Foodies, history bluffs and cultural enthusiasts are sure to fall in love with the beautiful city. 

How long to stay in Mexico City?

While I can usually provide a more concrete answer when traveling, this is really depending on how much exploring outside the city you want to do. There is so much to see and do in the city itself but also a lot of great things to see on the outskirts that are worth visiting, if time allows. 

A 5-day itinerary to Mexico City will work for those interested in mostly exploring Mexico City and still allows time for a day trip to Teotihuacan, the ancient pyramids, or another nearby town. 

If you want to make the most of your trip by visiting nearby cities that fall within a driving distance of under 3 hours to Mexico City, then you will want to book a stay for 7 to 10 days. 

why visit mexico city

Nearby cities you might want to consider visiting are Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende. Both cities are beautiful and definitely places you’ll want to visit sometime during your lifetime.

Since we were short on time during our trip, we did not get a chance to visit any surrounding cities and focused our time on exploring the city. 

How to get around Mexico City?

Mexico City is densely populated so you will likely hit traffic at nearly all times of the day. Plan for dinner reservations, tours, etc. to ensure you arrive to your destinations on time. Most restaurants allow a 15 minute grace period but if you arrive after, you risk losing your reservation. 

Here are some ways to get around the city:

Uber-  This is a cost-efficient and practical way to get around the city. Since you will be traveling by car, this also means you are likely to sit in traffic and if you visit populated areas during peak hours, you will be charged surcharge fees. Regardless, it’s practical and the best way to get from point A to point B.

By bike-  Mexico City has one of the best bike programs in the world. We were amazed to see how many people got around on bicycles in the city. Traveling by bike is especially popular in the La Condesa and La Roma neighborhoods. You can also easily access Reforma Avenue, the Historic Center, and Polanco by bike. These are all great areas and it’s where we spent most of our trip. 

You’ll find bike rentals and docking stations throughout these neighborhoods so you can easily rent a bike for a day to explore various neighborhoods.

Metro-  If you find yourself in an area with a lot of traffic and people (like El Zocalo) you might want to walk a few blocks to hop on the Metro. This is a fast train under the city so you’ll get to your destination much faster. It is also a cheap way to get around the city and will cost you less than $1 roundtrip. 

Turibus-  Want to spend the day sightseeing? Hop on a double decker bus that takes you to Mexico City’s hot spots. You’re able to hop on and hop off in various locations. This is a great idea for a first-time visit to the city and for hitting multiple landmarks in one day. 

Make sure you pack a hat and sunscreen when sitting on the top deck- you’ll catch the best views but you’ll also catch a lot of sun. 

Where to stay in Mexico City?

why visit mexico city

The best areas to stay in Mexico City are Condesa, Roma, and Polanco. You’ll be close to all of the action and in some of the most vibrant areas of the city. 

La Roma is the “in” neighborhood of Mexico City right now. If you want to be close to bars, restaurants, shops and more- you’ll want to stay here. La Roma has beautiful tree-lined streets and will make you feel like you are in a European neighborhood. 

We booked our stay through Sonder- a new hospitality app that offers stays in top metropolitan cities. They have several Sonder locations through Mexico City. This was our first time staying with Sonder and had a great experience.  You can book the hotel we stayed at here.

Our room was steps away from hot spots and close to the Turibus.  Highly recommend La Roma for ease of getting around the city.

La Condesa often gets lumped into the same area as La Roma, but this is a separate neighborhood. While La Condesa boasts a lot of the charm offered in La Roma, there is not as much to do. This is a great second pick if you find prices to be cheaper when staying in this neighborhood. You’ll still be pretty close to all of the action and it’s a gorgeous neighborhood to stay in. 

Polanco 

Looking for an upscale experience in Mexico City? Then you will want to stay in Polanco. Polanco is known for luxury shopping and high end hotels. Polanco is a bit of a stretch from La Condesa & Roma, but if luxe travel is your thing, then you’ll want to look into a stay in Polanco. 

Best things to do in Mexico City 

why visit mexico city

  • Take a day trip Teotihuacan and explore ancient pyramids.
  • Take a Xoxililco water taxi and listen to mariachi music and enjoy drinks with spectacular views.
  • Take a foodie tour around the city (see foodie guide recommendations below).
  • Visit Centro de Coyocan. Here you will find the Frida Kahlo Museum and some of the most colorful streets in Mexico City 
  • Visit the Zócalo, Catedral and Plaza de la Constitución. This historic center of Mexico City allows you walk inside churches, ancient ruins, and find stunning views from surrounding restaurants. Get your walking shoes ready and you’ll be able to see many of these historical sites in a couple of hours.
  • Take a day trip to Tolantongo and experience Mexico’s hot springs 
  • Experience a traditional Mexican market at La Ciudadela 
  • Get views of the entire city when you visit Torre Latino. Home to an observation deck with sweeping views and the world’s highest aquarium.
  • Take the Turibus and go sight-seeing around the city. Grab your sunscreen, hat, and camera- there is a lot to see!

What to eat in Mexico City?

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico City, I hope you had an appetite ready. Foodies will fall in love with the city even more and all of the delicious food you will get to try. 

The restaurants not only serve up delicious food, but they offer a cultural experience wherever you go. Restaurants go all out to explain the dining concepts, share why dishes are paired together and are always open to answer any questions related to the restaurant’s theme and cuisine.

why visit mexico city

Restaurants ensure their staff are highly knowledge in the menu and its offering to provide the ultimate culinary experience every single time. 

Here is a guide to dining out in Mexico City, put together by a local who works in the food and beverage industry. 

The best way to try all the best places to eat in Mexico City is by taking a food tour. Yup- a tour catered especially for foodies so you can try the best of the best curated by top chefs from around the world. Sounds amazing, right?

Here are two recommended tour guides to book for your next vacation. 

  • Devoured Mx by The Curious Mexican
  • Eat like a local Mexico City

Lunch or Dinner options

  • San Angel Inn   
  • Los Danzantes
  • Tacos Orinoco
  • El parnita / Páramo
  • Terraza cha cha cha
  • Mi compa chava

Fine Dining

  • Carmela Y Sal
  • Maximo Bistrot
  • Azul Historico

Snacks & Cravings 

  • Churros El Moro
  • Esquites Durango
  • Panaderia Rosetta

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Looking for more travel ideas in Mexico?  Check out my guide to Cancun here. Follow us on Instagram for more family and travel content

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Is Mexico City Worth Visiting: The Pros and Cons of CDMX

Are you considering a vacation to Mexico City? If so, you might be wondering, “is Mexico City worth visiting”? It’s understandable to have doubts about traveling to Mexico when there are frequent reports of crime, pollution, and contaminated water.

Mexico City is worth visiting if you enjoy a vibrant city vacation. Mexico City has it all : Aztec culture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, fascinating museums and delicious food ranging from street tacos to MICHELIN star rated restaurants .

For the last twenty years I have traveled to various cities in Mexico. I just returned from a trip to CDMX, so I can share helpful pros and cons of Mexico City! Keep reading to learn whether Mexico City is worth visiting, and decide if a trip to the capital is the right for you.

DISCLOSURE: PLEASE NOTE THAT SOME LINKS BELOW ARE AFFILIATE LINKS. I EARN A MINIMAL COMMISSION THAT SUPPORTS MY SMALL BUSINESS AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU.

Is Mexico City Worth Visiting?

Is Mexico City Worth Visiting: Facts about CDMX

Mexico City, known as Ciudad de Mexico or CDMX, is the capital of Mexico. It is a common misconception that Mexico is part of South America. However, it is on the continent of North America. The site of the current city was established in 1325 C.E. It was known as Tenochtitlan , the ancient Aztec civilization. Additionally, it is the oldest metropolis in North America .

In terms of size and population, Mexico City is enormous. In fact, Mexico City is the most populous city in North America with over 22 million residents . Mexico City is  sixteen times larger than New York City  and it spans almost 600 square miles.

Angel of Independence Mexico City

How To Get To Mexico City

Flights to Mexico City from the United States are plentiful and affordable (add that to the list of pros). International flights to CDMX arrive at Benito Juarez International Airport . This is the second largest airport in Mexico . There are numerous U.S. Cities that fly direct to Mexico City such as:

  • Los Angeles
  • Philadelphia
  • San Francisco

Plane flying over Mexico City skyline

Learn How to Fly From Tijuana to Destinations in Mexico In This Blog Post!

Why Visit Mexico City: The Positives About CDMX

Once you arrive In Mexico City it’s time to explore the highlights. If you are wondering, “ Why go to Mexico City ?” Keep reading for the pro’s of a Mexico City trip. A note about the following attractions: these are organized by category, not location.

CDMX stay in Roma Norte.

1. The Historic Center of Mexico City Is Full of History and Cultural Experiences

One of the main reasons Mexico City is worth visiting is the fabulous historic city center. It makes sense to begin your exploration of Mexico City where it began in approximately 1325 CE. The city center has many names: El Centro Historico and El Centro de Mexico are common ones. Both Aztec and Spanish influences can be noted here. This is one of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mexico City. Below, you will find attractions in the El Centro Historic for you to explore.

First begin at the main square in the historic District Federal of CDMX, called Zócalo or Constitution Square. Surrounding the largest square in Latin America , you can find important cultural attractions, restaurants and a flurry of people. Take time to wander through the square and soak up the palpable energy of Mexico City. Festivities during holidays such as Mexican Independence Day, Dia De Los Muertos, and Christmas fill the Zocolo with activity.

Zócalo Address:  Plaza de la Constitución S/N, Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06010 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

There is no admission fee to explore Zócalo Square.

Zocalo Mexico City with Mexican flag

Templo Mayor

Templo Mayor was the main temple of the destroyed city of Tenochtitlan . You can explore the temple site and Templo Mayor Museum to learn about Aztec history.

Museo Del Templo Mayor Address: Seminario 8, Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06060 Ciudad de México, CDMX, México

Templo Mayor Museum Operating Hours :

  • Monday- CLOSED
  • Tuesday-Sunday 9:00-5:00

Tickets for Templo Mayor Museum: $90 MXN for adults. Children under 13 are free.

Templo Mayor Ruins in Mexico City

Palacio Nacional

Next visit the National Palace where the Mexican President resides. Make sure to look for the Campana de Dolores, which is the bell rung at the start of the War of Independence. You can also admire works of art by Diego Rivera.

Palacio Nacional Address: Plaza de la Constitución S/N, Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06066 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

National Palace Operating Hours:

Palacio Nacional Admission: Free

Seeking Stamps Tip : Proper identification is required for entry.

National Palace in Mexico City

2. Mexico City Has Fabulous Restaurants and Cuisine

Without a doubt the flavorful cuisine and beautiful restaurants make Mexico City worth visiting. From street food to MICHELIN star dining, CDMX has it all. The diversity and quality of the restaurants in Mexico City distinguish it from other cities in Mexico. From decor to ambiance, CDMX restaurants offer so many options. Some favorite restaurants are:

  • Lardo – This is a great spot for brunch in CDMX.
  • Farmacia Internacional-  Perfect for a quick coffee and breakfast in Mexico City.
  • La Docena – Offers fresh seafood and oysters .
  • Pujol – It’s tough to get a reservation here, but the reviews speak for themselves.
  • Contramar – One of CDMX’s top picks. Reservations book up as soon as they are released.
  • Palmares Azotea – If you can’t get into Contramar walk next door to this hidden gem upstairs. It’s great for lunch in CDMX.
  • Ticuchi – A dark and sultry high end restaurant with a bar-like feel.
  • Puerto Prendes – This is one of the most beautiful restaurants in Mexico City with is towering ceiling and elegant aesthetic.
  • Carajillo – This is a lively dinner restaurant with loud music and thrilling pyrotechnics.
  • El Moro Churreria-  No visit to Mexico City is complete without sampling its famous crispy, cinnamon covered churros with chocolate dipping sauce.

Palmares Azotea

3. Mexico City Is Worth Seeing For Lively Bars and Nightlife

Next, it’s time to explore the nightlife and mezcal scene in Mexico City. After dark, Mexico City becomes even more exciting. There are great bars, mezcalerias, and speakeasies to enjoy. CDMX even has four bars included in the World’s Top 50 bars . Some favorites are:

  • Hanky Panky – a swanky speakeasy serving delicious Mexican food and cocktails.
  • The Handshake Bar – this cozy speakeasy serves up fabulous craft cocktails. Watch out for chapul i nes (grasshoppers) in the nut mix.
  • Licoreria Limantour – this open-air two story bar is the perfect place to enjoy an evening cocktail.
  • Carlotta Reforma – Enjoy breaktaking views of the CDMX skyline from the top of the Ritz Carlton.
  • La Clandestina – This is a great spot in the Condesa area. It has both an indoor and outdoor space.
  • La Llorona Cantina – Try a mezcal flight at this relaxed spot in Condesa.

La Llorona interior

4. The Exquisite Pyramids of Teotihuacan Make CDMX Worth a Visit

Take a day trip to the ancient city of Teotihuacan . Teotihuacan was built as early as 400 BC  and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It takes approximately 45 minutes to reach the site from the city. Take a hot air balloon to view the pyramids from the air for a memorable experience. These ruins are truly awe-inspiring and are a must-see in CDMX.

Museo de Sitio Teotihuacan

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Hours of Operation for Teotihuacan:  9:00-5:00 Daily. Gates close at 3:00 for the last admission. 

Teotihuacan Tickets:  Teotihuacan admission costs$ 80 MXN.

Seeking Stamps Tip:  You cannot climb to the top of Teotihuacan any longer in an effort to preserve the ruins. Visit in the morning when there are fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. There is very little shade, so wear sun protection, a hat, and sunglasses. You will want to wear sturdy shoes to walk over the expansive site.

why visit mexico city

Where to Eat Near Teotihuacan:

If you are looking for an interesting restaurant near the Teotihuacan Pyramids, visit La Gruta . This beautiful restaurant engulfed by a cave is gorgeous. From the colorful interior, candlelight, handcrafted cocktails and delicious food- it’s amazing. They offer some “traditional” items on the menu such as chinicuil (caterpillars), and escamoles (ant larvae). If you aren’t feeling adventurous, try the mole or fajitas with a mango margarita!

La Gruta restaurant.

5. Mexico City Is Worth Visiting To Experience Xochimilco Floating Gardens

There’s no question you have to visit  Xochimilco Floating Gardens when you come to Mexico City. From the city center it’s 20 miles away and takes approximately 45 minutes to drive there.

Enjoy the jovial atmosphere as you float along this ancient Aztec waterway in boldly colored Trajineras. There are a variety of tour options of different lengths and routes. If you choose the longer Xomilcho tour you can make a stop at the creepy  Island of the Dolls .  

Bring a picnic lunch and drinks to enjoy as you explore the journey around this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The scene can get rowdy with locals and tourists, mariachi music blaring, and lots of day drinking. If you want a quieter experience, go early in the morning. This is touristy, but nonetheless one you shouldn’t miss.

Seeking Stamps Tip:  Choose a shorter one hour tour. We were coaxed into a more expensive route with “the better view” and it looked the same throughout the journey. Watch out for scammers and pickpockets. This can be a dangerous place to visit after dark.

Xochimilco Cost: Prices are per boat, or trajinero, and run about $1000 pesos for up to 20 people.

Xochimilco Mexico City

6. Fabulous Museums Make It Worth a Trip To Ciudad De México

There are a variety of fabulous museums in Mexico City . In fact, Mexico City has the 2nd largest number of museums in the world . Make sure to plan ahead because most of them are closed on Mondays.

National Anthropology Museum

Another must-see museum in Mexico City is the  Museo Nacional de Antropología . It is filled with stunning artifacts documenting Mexico’s history and culture in 23 exhibition halls.

Museo Nacional de Antropología Address:

Av. Paseo de la Reforma and Calzada Gandhi s/n Col. Chapultepec Polanco. Alc. Miguel Hidalgo. 11560, Mexico City

Anthropology Museum Hours of Operation: 

  • Tuesday-Sunday 9:00 am- 6:00 pm

Museo Nacional de Antropología tickets : $90 MXN for adults. Seniors 60+ and children under 13 are free. Discounts are available for locals, people with disabilities, and teachers.

Museo Nacional de Antropología Mayan Temple

Frida Kahlo Museum

Next, visit the beloved  Frida Kahlo Museum . It’s also known as La Casa Azul, or The Blue House, because of its vibrant blue color. It is the home Frida and Diego Rivera shared together. The museum displays Kahlo’s interesting art, clothing, and belongings. Learn about challenges Kahlo experienced as a result of polio and a tragic accident. 

Frida Museum Address: Londres 247, Col. Del Carmen, Coyoacán, CDMX, México, 04100

Casa Azul Hours of Operation:

  • Tuesday 10:00 am-6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 11:00 am-6:00 pm
  • Thursday-Sunday 10:00 am- 6:00 pm

Check for additional holiday closures on the website.

Frida Museum Tickets:  $250 MXN for adults Mon-Fri and $270 MNX on weekends. Children under 6 are free. Discounts are available for people with disabilities and seniors.

A fee applies for photography and guided tours.

Seeking Stamps Tip:   Frida Kahlo museum tickets  must be purchased in advance . Admission price also includes the Diego Rivera Museum in Coyoacan. 

Frida Kahlo Museum

Palacio De Bellas Artes

The Palace of Fine Arts , which was constructed in 1905, is a gorgeous center museum for the fine arts in the historic center. It frequently offers musical performances and art exhibits. The architecture alone makes this gorgeous museum worth a visit in Mexico City.

Palacio de Bellas Artes Address: Av. Juárez S/N, Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06050 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Palace of Fine Arts Hours of Operation:

  • Tuesday-Sunday 11:00-5:00

Palacio de Bellas Artes Admission : $75 MXN for adults, Free for people with disabilities and children under 13. Free admission on Sundays.

Seeking Stamps Tip : Go across the street to Sears to the 8th floor for amazing views of the Palacio.

See the Palacio de Bellas Artes on your Mexico City trip.

If you have additional time make sure to see these other fabulous museums:

  • Folk Art Museum ( Museo de Arte Popular )
  • National Art Museum ( Museo Nacional de Arte )
  • University Museum of Contemporary Art (MUAC Museo Universitario de Arte Contemporáneo )

7. Stunning Cathedrals Make Mexico City Worth Visiting

There are dozens of beautiful churches and cathedrals to visit in Mexico City. With limited time, these are some of the most popular ones to include in your itinerary.

Metropolitan Cathedral

During your trip visit a central landmark in the historic district. After the Spanish conquered the city in 1521, the Catedral Metropolitana was built on the ruins of Templo Mayor. Construction of the ornate cathedral lasted from 1573 to 1813. Today, it is the largest Cathedral in Latin America . It is a showcase of three architectural styles representing the three decades over which it was built. Similar to many important structures in Mexico City, it is sinking into the unstable earth it was built upon.

Metropolitan Cathedral Address: Plaza de la Constitución S/N, Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, México

Catedral Metropolitana Operating Hours:

  • Monday-Sunday 9:00-5:30 (check for alternate holiday hours)

Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral Admission : Free, but you may make a donation if you wish.

Metropolitan Cathedral at Zocalo Mexico City

Basílica of Our Lady Guadalupe

Next, visit the  Basilica of Santa Maria de Guadalupe . built on Tepeyac Hill in 1695. Here local legends say in 1531, the Virgin Mary appeared to a commoner named Juan Diego. She asked Juan Diego to build a shrine in her name. Doubted by local priests, his request was denied until an image or tilma appeared on his cloak.

This religious image was housed in the older Basilica de Guadalupe. Over the years, construction damaged the church. In the 1970’s, the church started sinking and the sacred tilma had to be relocated to a new basilica built just steps away.

The  New Basilica of Guadalupe  now holds the  Image of Our Lady Guadalupe . The image of the Virgin of Guadalupe and the sacred tilma are sacred to the Mexican people. With over 20 million visitors a year, the Basilica of Guadalupe is one of the most visited in the world. You can enter the new Basilica of Guadalupe and take an escalator to see the sacred tilma. To this day there is controversy and mystery about the authenticity of the Tilma .

Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe Hours of Operation: 

  • Friday-Wednesday 9:00- 6:30
  • Thursday 9:00-7:00

Check for holiday closures.

Seeking Stamps Tip :  Admission to the Basilica is free and $3 MXN charges to use the bathroom.

Basilica of our Lady Guadalupe

8. CDMX Is Worth Visiting To See Its Beautiful Parks

After you explore the indoor sites that make Mexico worth seeing, it’s time to immerse yourself in Mexico City’s green spaces.

Chapultepec Park (Bosque de Chapultepec)

Chapultepec Park is the largest and oldest urban park in Latin America. It is a sprawling 1,695 acre green space in the center of the city. Locals claim that it is “the lungs of Mexico City”. While you are there, visit Chapultepec Castle . It dates back to 1784 and is the only castle in North America that housed sovereigns .

Chapultepec Park

Parque Alameda Central

In the central district near Palacio de Bellas Artes, stroll through Parque Alameda Central . This park dating back to 1592 has lovely purple Jacaranda blooms everywhere. It is a peaceful reprieve from the chaos of the city. You can admire lovely fountains and statues as you wind around the paved park. Street vendors are banned from hawking their wares, which contributes to the serene environment.

Central Alameda park

Parque Allende

Parque Allende – This is a lovely space in the Coyoacan area. You can relax in this outdoor space and find vendors selling art and souvenirs. This is a perfect place to people watch.

Fuente de Cibeles in Mexico City

Parque Mexico

Parque Mexico is another one of the top parks in Mexico City . Nestled in the chic Condesa neighborhood, Parque Mexico is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll. There are interesting art deco influences throughout the park. Restaurants are located nearby if you want to grab a bite to eat.

Parque Mexico

Are You Planning a Girls’ Trip To Mexico City ? Read This Blog For More . . .

Is Mexico City Worth Visiting: The Negatives of CDMX

1. mexico city can be dangerous to visit.

Without a doubt, there are places in Mexico City that are dangerous. There are frequent sensational news reports of robberies, kidnapping and sexual assaults. Yet, that doesn’t mean you should avoid traveling to Mexico City. As with any large city, you need to be aware and avoid unsafe neighborhoods in CDMX , such as Topito and Doctores.

There are several ways you can stay safe in Mexico City. To avoid being a target of petty crime, leave flashy jewelry and accessories at home. Use good judgment, read up on common scams in CDMX , and don’t wander the streets inebriated. This is the exact same advice I would offer someone traveling to Los Angeles or New York City. Security and CCTV cameras throughout the city help ensure tourists are safe.

Is Mexico worth it- skyline of cdmx.

2. Mexico City Is Polluted

Honestly, you might not be prepared for the thick brown layer of smog covering the horizon as you descend into Mexico City. Sadly, one of the first impressions you will have of the city is the noticeable pollution. As a southern California native, I’m no stranger to air pollution. But, this was much more than I’m used to. In fact, in the recent past Mexico City was considered the most polluted city in the world . Many of Mexico City’s residents have substandard housing, water and sewage . The pollution in Mexico City is definitely one of the negatives you will want to consider before you decide if CDMX is worth visiting.

Air pollution in Mexico City.

3. Mexico City Has Contaminated Water

The next reason you might want to avoid Mexico City is the notoriously poor water quality. Do not drink tap water or consume fresh produce in Mexico. Otherwise, your vacation might be ruined with traveler’s diarrhea in Mexico City (aka Montezuma’s Revenge). Despite this, it is quite easy to drink bottled water in hotels and restaurants.

4. Traffic In Mexico City Is a Negative Attribute To Consider When Visiting CDMX

Now that you understand the pollution in Mexico, it’s easy to understand part of the source of that pollution: the traffic in Mexico City . As mentioned previously, Mexico City is huge. Thus, factor in traffic when you plan your itinerary. The congested roads and traffic in Mexico City are a major negative when trying to figure out whether Mexico City is worth visiting.

Mexico City traffic at night.

5. Debunking the Myth That Mexico City Is “The Europe of Mexico”

You may have heard that Mexico City resembles a European City. Perhaps compared to Cabo or Mazatlan, CDMX feels European. However, if you have actually been to Europe, it is doubtful Mexico City will feel European. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, you shouldn’t go to Rome hoping it will be like Paris, right? If you visit with that in mind, you will have realistic expectations. For the record, no place in Europe has Al Pastor tacos as delicious as Mexico City.

6. Earthquakes May Deter You From Seeing Mexico City

Mexico City sits on the seismic hotspot called “the Ring of Fire”. As a result, tremors in CDMX are very common. Most of the time, earthquakes are minor. However, Mexico City’s unique geography makes some earthquakes very deadly . Two major quakes in 1985 and 2017 killed thousands of people in CDMX. The city has an early warning system called SASMEX installed. This is in an emergency warning sound that blares through loudspeakers throughout the city. Despite the risk of earthquakes, Mexico City is worth seeing. Although earthquakes in Mexico City are rare, it’s a good idea to understand some basic earthquake safety before you visit.

Mexico City aerial photo of the the city.

7. The Problem With Prostitutes In Mexico City

Normally, I try to keep things rated PG, but I want to be truthful about another major con of CDMX. There are lots of prostitutes visible around the city. You might expect some at night in a big city, but they lined major streets during the day in the seedier parts of town. Prostitution in Mexico City was decriminalized in 2019 , so it’s legal. Prostitution in CDMX is definitely a huge con when visiting the city.

The Best Time To Visit Mexico City

Fortunately, the weather in CDMX makes it a year round destination. Temperatures range from 43-80 degrees Fahrenheit . The best time to visit Mexico City is between March to May when the weather is warm and dry. The rainy season in Mexico City lasts from May to October. July tends to have the most days with rain. Although it is at a higher altitude, it rarely snows in Mexico City.

Where To Stay In Mexico City

When visiting CDMX, check out the chic neighborhoods of Condesa and Roma Norte. There are a variety of hotels and rental properties available during your stay. We opted for an Airbnb in the heart of Condesa. This is a perfect home base with close access to world class dining, mezcal bars, and nightlife. Both Condesa and Roma Norte are safe areas in Mexico City. Despite the popularity of these neighborhoods, Mexico City is not expensive to visit.

Where to stay in Mexico city

Getting Around Mexico City

The easiest way to get around Mexico City is via Uber or taxi. . Mass transit via trains and buses is also readily available. Uber was our transportation of choice and it was super affordable- often just $2 USD for a ride.

Seeking Stamps Tip : Avoid taxi scams : Taxi license plates should start with A or B and the driver should display their ID. From the airport, use the taxi service form the official booth, not from men approaching you for a ride.

Monument to the Revolution

Is Mexico City Worth Visiting: FAQ 

1. when is the best time to visit mexico city.

You can enjoy Ciudad de Mexico travel year round. The months of March to May are considered the best time to visit Ciudad de Mexico.

2. Is Mexico City Safe to Visit?

Mexico City is safe if you exercise caution and use common sense as necessary in any busy city. Be proactive- leave valuables and money in your hotel safe, do not wear expensive jewelry or accessories, watch your belongings in tourist attractions and public transportation, and educate yourself on common scams in the area.

3. Can You Drink the Water In Mexico City?

Do not brush your teeth or drink the  tap water in Mexico City . Even locals use bottled water due to faulty pipes and contaminated water tanks in Mexico City .

4. How Many Days Do You Need to Spend In Mexico City?

Stay at least 4 days to see the essential attractions in the Mexican capital. If you have more time, there are plenty of cultural attractions, museums, and restaurants to keep you occupied for a week or more.

5. What Is So Special About Mexico City?

Mexico City is special because it offers Aztec culture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, museums, delicious food and a vibrant nightlife. It is ranked the #8 destination to see in Mexico .

Why Go to Mexico City: Final Thoughts

Why should you go to Mexico City? The cultural experiences, UNESCO World Heritage sites, devine food, and exciting day trips are all reasons to visit Mexico City. Despite crime, pollution and traffic, Mexico City is worth visiting. Hopefully these pros and cons of Mexico City help you decide if it’s worth a visit on your next vacation.

Souvenir shopping in CDMX.

Jenny is a travel enthusiast who has explored the world for 20+ years and visited over 40 countries. She currently lives in sunny Carlsbad, California, with her husband, two teenagers, and dogs. As a part-time traveler, you will find her local posts about the San Diego area and advice on a variety of international destinations.

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I’m a huge fan of Mexico but have never been to Mexico City. I’m thinking the pros you highlighted outweigh the cons by far! Love the history, museums, and gardens especially.

I think it’s important to give honest descriptions of destinations. Mexico City is fabulous, but it helps to be prepared for some of the negatives of the bustling city. I hope you have a chance to visit one day.

I’ve heard lots of good things about Mexico City and would like to visit someday. I knew it was big but I didn’t realize it is sixteen times larger than New York City; it’s good that it has so many nice parks and green spaces.

I didn’t realize the enormity of Mexico City until I visited either. It’s great there is so much to do and see!

I have only been to Cancun, but I would love to return and see more of Mexico, but I am not sure I would be brave enough to visit Mexico City. Like most major cities, it has its negatives, but there seem to be quite a lot (the contaminated water would worry me), however I enjoyed reading your authentic description of Mexico’s capital city.

Don’t let the water stop you from visiting. If you have been to Mexico, you have already dealt with it. Fortunately, there is bottled and filtered water throughout the city.

What a brilliant post. Never been to Mexico City but it has been on the list. The post answers literally all my questions. Thanks for giving a critical view of the cons as well. Most places paint a romantic picture. A great read!

This is an awesome guide! Mexico City has been on my bucket list for a while now. I am a huge Frida fan and would love to see her home in person. Will definitely save this guide for later!

Thank you for the positive feedback. Casa Azul was fascinating. If you are a Frida fan, you should definitely visit one day.

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5 Reasons to visit Mexico City

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February 25, 2020

5 Reasons to visit Mexico City

By Yunna Takeuchi

Fascinating, complex, colourful, vibrant, unpredictable, eccentric - if you are visiting Mexico City , or CDMX according to the locals, this is what you can expect. This city is one of those unique destinations that will mark you and leave you wanting to go back again and again. I grew up in Mexico City and lived there until the age of 18 when I moved to live abroad. My deep attachment to the city might be a natural one, but I’ve seen the effect that the city has had on many of my friends from overseas who have taken many repeated trips to Mexico City . I haven’t lived here for many years now so instead of giving you reasons to visit Mexico City from my cherished memories as a teenager, I asked a dozen of my friends that live there to give me the reasons why they think you should visit this incredible city. Here goes!

City Unscripted article image

CDMX Is Heaven For Any Foodie

An obvious one, but food is at the heart of Mexican history and culture and a huge part of life here. If you are traveling to Mexico City then it is mandatory that you immerse yourself in its food culture ! Chances are that if you’ve never been to Mexico, you’ll be surprised at the incredible diversity of dishes, exciting flavour combinations and unfamiliar ingredients; the authentic local dishes you’ll find here are a world away from the ‘Mexican’ food you’re probably used to back home. You’re likely to be as equally impressed by a tlacoyo from a street stall as with a dish from a high-end restaurant, and with good reason as street food in particular is a huge part of our culture. 

City Unscripted article image

One of my friends quite rightly pointed out that street food brings Chilangos , Mexico City residents, from its full socioeconomic spectrum together as they gather around la senora that has set up on the corner of a busy street to prepare the most delicious quesadillas , sopes and huaraches you’d ever imagined, while an ancient radio fills the air with the latest cumbias . During your next visit to Mexico City be sure to try everything on offer from the thousands of food stalls scattered around the city, from fresh fruit covered in chilli to delicious street corn in cups, foods you probably have never heard of like tlacoyos , birria , camotes , menudo to the good old tacos, of which around 60 types exist! But it is not all street food. Like any good cosmopolitan city, Mexico City offers a world-class selection of restaurants of all cuisines, budgets and styles.

City Unscripted article image

It’s Budget Friendly

Any Mexico City travel guide will tell you that, if you’re budget conscious then there’s no better city destination than here. The city has everything you’d expect from a megalopolis and more. You can eat like a king on a shoestring budget, drinks are cheap, there are tons of world-class museums (it’s the city with the most museums in the world after Paris) and cultural activities that are free and there’s great shopping at amazing prices. Getting around won’t set you back much either: the metro is efficient and super cheap but if you’d prefer to jump in an uber, they’re convenient and not expensive at all. You can get great hotels and airbnbs at surprisingly affordable rates too, so the whole trip to Mexico City will be budget friendly.

City Unscripted article image

The Enchanting Fusion Of Ancient And Modern

When you do visit Mexico City, pause to appreciate how the old city fuses so seamlessly with the new. Founded by the Aztecs in 1325 on an island in Lake Texcoco, at its height the city had enormous temples and palaces and a huge ceremonial centre which was mostly destroyed by the Spanish, who rebuilt it in their own style. Today, everything from the culture to the architecture and the food to religion, are a fusion of indigenous and Spanish traditions and styles, creating the city’s unique look and charm. When traveling to Mexico City you will notice that even the language spoken today blends Spanish, the official language with words that come from the ancient, native languages and some of the ‘Spanish’ words are only used here in Mexico. And while the official religion might be Catholicism, the ancient gods haven’t been forgotten. The Catholicism practiced here sometimes incorporates aspect of old religions and beliefs, creating a unique version of the religion that you won’t find anywhere else.

City Unscripted article image

The Unique Culture And Wonderful Traditions

With such a rich and diverse culture drawing on Spanish and indigenous influences, it’s no wonder we have so many unique cultural traditions. You will read all about it in any Mexico City travel guide but nothing compares to experiencing it first-hand. There’s never a dull moment and no matter what we’re celebrating, every fiesta is bursting with colour and passion, and the whole city gets involved. From Día de los Muertos, the three day fiesta famed for its sugar skulls, marigolds and incredible costumes to Posadas, the nine day celebration leading up to Christmas where the city is filled with star shaped piñata and glowing candles. Locals take celebrating cultural traditions seriously, so visit Mexico City during one of the festivals or holidays to experience the atmosphere is a must. You’ll find traditions synonymous with the culture all year round though, in everything from religious to musical expression like mariachi, which is a big part of the city’s heritage and defined not only by the music itself but by the costumes and performance space.

City Unscripted article image

Culturally, CDMX might be traditional and the people passionate about celebrating their heritage, but as you traveling through Mexico City you will notice how wonderfully diverse it is. You only have to stroll through the local neighbourhoods to see how diverse the barrios are; from colonial-era splendor to bohemian enclaves, there’s a barrio for every taste. Some, like Escandón are rooted in tradition and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time and to a tiny Mexican town, whilst others like progressive Coyoacán, with its brightly painted houses and intellectual crowds, are bursting with bohemian spirit.

City Unscripted article image

The City Embraces La Familia

If you are looking for a great place for the kids then a trip to Mexico City is in order! Family life here is at the heart of the entire city’s social structure. Everywhere will welcome your whole family, and you won’t have to worry about your tribe making too much noise, demanding food stops or changing your plans last minute since la familia such an important part of our culture. Mexican families are still relatively traditional, and people see it as their duty to help out family members with everything from finding a job to contributing to buying a house. On Sundays the whole family, from the grandma and the nurse who looks after her down to the newest baby gathers together whether it's for a meal after church or to hang out in the park, especially in suburban neighbourhoods like Del Valle. Families are a little smaller in the city than in other parts of Mexico, but people still tend to have large families so every neighbourhood has a family-oriented vibe and strong sense of community. I might be biased, but the people are known for being super friendly and welcoming, so you’ll feel like part of the extended family in no time too when you visit Mexico City.

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Why This Cultural City In Mexico Is One Of The Fastest Growing Digital Nomad Destinations In The World

Post may contain affiliate links; we may receive compensation if you click links to those products. This has no impact on how offers are presented. Our site does not include all offers available. Content on page accurate as of posting date.

Other than being America's go-to country for sunny vacations, Mexico has become one of the world's leading digital nomad havens , highly sought-after for its lower cost of living compared to much of the U.S. and Europe, fascinating culture, welcoming locals, and great weather.

Ironically, a majority of remote workers will settle on the overdeveloped coast, particularly in the Mexican Caribbean, where consumer prices can be substantially higher and gentrification has spiraled out of control, while ignoring the much cheaper, equally-incredibly inland destinations .

That is the case with Guadalajara , a seriously-underrated cultural center, and a potential nomad hotspot that's been gaining traction in the community lately:

Is Guadalajara Poised To Become Mexico's Next Nomad Hotspot?

According to Nomad List , the leading platform tracking digital nomad trends, Guadalajara is the tenth fastest-rising destination for this community in the Latin America subgroup.

It is still a far cry from the expat-dominated Mexican Caribbean's massive numbers, but interestingly enough, it has a higher approval rate than all of the most traditional nomad hubs: only 20% of Nomad List respondents disliked it, against 44% for Playa Del Carmen, and a staggering 60% for Tulum .

You may be wondering why that is.

Mexico's ‘second' city after CDMX, Guadalajara is not every nomad's number one pick when considering a move South of the border: it often gets dismissed for not straddling the coast, despite serving as the capital of a Pacific state, and for not being a traditional ‘workcation' base.

Guadalajara is what we like to call ‘ deep Mexico ‘, where ultra-luxurious all-inclusive resorts are not at the front of the tourist offer, and local authorities can't rely on golden sand beaches and American-friendly entertainment districts to attract visitors.

If you're a digital nomad hanging with the beach-loving ‘Tuluminatti' sect, it's unlikely Guadalajara will be your strongest contender for favorite.

On the other hand, if you feel the most productive leading a busier lifestyle, you need the agitation of riotous Friday nights, and you're keen on immersing yourself in a foreign culture , away from an increasingly-Americanized Quintana Roo, this is the perfect place to be.

A Culture Capital To Rival European Cities

It is one of the most important cities in Mexico, as well as one of the oldest, having been established by the Spanish upon their takeover of the land as early as the 1500s.

Over the centuries, it's amassed cultural riches to rival the imperial power that once had it under its thumb, and it grew into a major modern metropolis home to over five million people .

Picture rows upon rows of towering skyscrapers as far as the eyes can see, crazy traffic, the usual fast-paced hordes going about their daily affairs, and everything you would expect a big city to be, and contrastingly, a colonial gem that has not yet lost its character .

Guadalajara boasts an impressive number of historical landmarks that are set to keep the History buff in you enthralled, including Guadalajara Cathedral, a Spanish-Renaissance religious building raised in the 16th century, the magnificent Teatro Degollado , and of course, Hospicio Cabañas.

The latter is one of the largest historical orphanages in the Americas, and has been designate da UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

Strolling around the city center of Guadalajara, you will also come upon countless historical buildings dating back to the colonial period, that add some Old World charm to the city's urban sprawl, and several aesthetic internet cafes that just fit the ambiance.

Visiting nomads are particularly fond of the rustic El Terrible Juan and the colonial-inspired Café Conquistador, which is known to serve some of the best coffee and snacks in town.

What Does Guadalajara Have To Offer Digital Nomads?

On the ‘teletrabajo' front, there is no shortage of nomad-friendly centers in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area, so much so that we are actually a bit surprised it has not exploded in popularity just yet .

If cafes aren't your thing, there are 73 coworking spaces in Guadalajara granting nomads access to fast, reliable 53 Mbps Wifi, and a peaceful environment from only $15 per day.

Based on Guadalajara's ratings on the platform, a big reason why nomads are starting to gather in the area is how affordable living is in the Jalisco capital.

They need on average $2,161 per month to lead a comfortable enough life in Guadalajara, considerably cheaper than living costs in key U.S. locations, and that number could be significantly lower even for budget-conscious nomads.

The local income level is only $704 per month, so those who refuse to pay double the usual Airbnb rate in upscale parts of town simply for being foreigners and find a way to live and spend like locals as opposed to acquiescing to inflated prices will soon realize it's actually a steal of a deal .

The weather is another positive factor: you know by now Guadalajara is not coastal, but it is still warm irrespective of season, registering peaks of 77°F this winter.

For Nomad List participants, that equals ‘perfect' .

Finally, they seem to love Guadalajara for the ‘fun' it offers, particularly around Avenida Chapultepec, the city's beating heart and a nightlife strip partygoers and sociable youths flock to for some unwinding and cheap drinks at the weekend.

Is Guadalajara Safe For Nomads?

The big hindrance to Guadalajara's growth?

As it is not on the usual tourist path, visitors may find it less safe to explore than other Mexican cities, as shown on Nomad List , where safety levels are perceived as ‘bad', but general safety advice applies.

Additionally, the U.S. Department of State considers the state of Jalisco a Level 3 destination , and urges Americans to ‘reconsider' visiting due to higher rates of crime.

The way we see it, you wouldn't walk around downtown San Francisco brandishing golden jewelry, or leave your bag unattended in an outdoor cafe in Manhattan: exercising caution, and avoiding dangerous zones is key to a stress-free sojourn .

The same goes for Guadalajara or any large city in Mexico.

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Why This Cultural City In Mexico Is One Of The Fastest Growing Digital Nomad Destinations In The World

Mexico City could run out of water in months: Travelers advised to 'behave more ethically'

why visit mexico city

One of the world's largest cities is running out of water, and day zero could happen as soon as June, according to experts.

Mexico City is facing a dire water crisis as climate change continues to bring severe droughts and high temperatures that are causing extra strain on the city's aging infrastructure.

Some neighborhoods have been without water for weeks, while others get it once a week. Many people have to pay to have water delivered from private companies.

"Over time, massive development in the city and over-exploration of the groundwater has occurred," Dr. Tahir Sufi, tourism professor at the Universidad de las Américas Puebla's School of Business & Economics, told USA TODAY in an email. "However, the decrease in rainfall due to global warming and other environmental factors is taking a toll on the city."

The reservoirs that supply water to the city's 22 million residents have been as low as 30%, according to the Associated Press. The deteriorating water system that brings in water from distant sources already leaks around 40% of water .

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The city's rainwater catchment basins have been so dry that one, the El Cristo basin, caught fire on Tuesday , burning through 75 acres.

There is currently no way for the city to recycle wastewater or collect rainwater to replenish the aquifer. Last year, officials restricted water consumption in certain areas.

Heading to Mexico for spring break? US issues Mexico 'increased caution' warning for spring break travelers

"The government has started making alternate arrangements for the residents and assures that more measures will be taken," said Dr. Sufi.

The rainy season is still three months away, and is crucial for the densely populated city's water supply. However, the worsening implications of climate change loom long-term.

Here's how Mexico City's water crisis is affecting travelers.

Is water available at hotels?

Hotels in the affected areas of Mexico City have arranged for alternative water sources, Dr. Sufi said. Many are experiencing low pressure or no water at times, so travelers can expect changes such as disposable materials for food service to cut back on water use, he added.

Dr. Sufi advised travelers to be careful about their water consumption when visiting and "behave more ethically during travel to the city."

Should tourists still go to Mexico City?

The State Department told USA TODAY in an email it is aware of the water shortage in Mexico City and monitoring guidance from local Mexican authorities.

The agency recommends U.S. citizens traveling to the region to review the country's information page . They can also sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which sends safety and security updates and makes it easier to contact a U.S. embassy should something happen.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Mexico Ahead of Spring Break

The warning is asking travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed."

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The United States is warning travelers heading to Mexico to be aware of their surroundings ahead of the spring break holiday season.

The warning , which was issued this week by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico, reminds travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed” as “thousands of U.S. citizens visit Mexico during spring break” each year. The embassy continued that “while the vast majority travel safely,” visitors should be aware of issues with crime, drugs, unregulated alcohol, drownings, and more. 

“Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations. Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations,” the embassy warned. “U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark.”

The warning also reminded American travelers that drug possession and use is illegal in Mexico, including medical marijuana. It also advised that unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, that counterfeit medication is common, and that guns are illegal in Mexico.

When it comes to the country’s popular beaches, the embassy reminded travelers some beaches may have strong rip tides and “may lack lifeguards, warnings, or signs of unsafe conditions.”

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico issued a similar spring break warning last year .

The U.S. Department of State classifies different states in Mexico under different warning levels. While travelers can “exercise normal precautions” when traveling to the Campeche and Yucatan states, the State Department warns them to “exercise increased caution” when heading to places like Baja California Sur (where Los Cabos is), Mexico City, and Quintana Roo (where Cancun is) due to crime.

The State Department also asks American travelers to “reconsider” going to the state of Jalisco, which is home to popular destination Puerto Vallarta , due to the danger of crime and kidnapping.

The State Department recommends Americans who do travel to Mexico keep people at home informed of their travel plans and enroll in the department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to both receive alerts and make it easier to locate them if an emergency occurs.

Travelers heading to international destinations can view all current travel advisories on the State Department's website at  travel.state.gov .

Mexico City is running out of water. Here’s why and how millions of residents are affected

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  • Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/mexico-city-is-running-out-of-water-heres-why-and-how-millions-of-residents-are-affected

Mexico City, one of the world's most populous cities, could be just months away from running out of water. It’s a crisis brought on by geography, growth and leaky infrastructure, all compounded by the effects of climate change. Journalist Emily Green joins John Yang to discuss the situation.

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Notice: Transcripts are machine and human generated and lightly edited for accuracy. They may contain errors.

Mexico City, one of the world's most populous cities could be just months away from running out of water. It's been brought on by a combination of geography, mushrooming growth, and leaky infrastructure all compounded by the effects of climate change.

Emily Green is a journalist based in Mexico City who's covered the story for NPR. Emily, what's the situation there now? What's daily life like now? For just for you, you live there in Mexico City? Are there restrictions on water use?

Emily Green, Journalist:

There are restrictions on water use. I think it very much depends where you live in the city. And that is maybe like the entire world, you know, if you have more money, and you're going to feel the impact of the water shortage, much less.

That said, I think what's unique right now is that it is being felt city wide. And I'll just use myself as an example. I live in one of the more upscale neighborhoods in Mexico City. And while reporting the story, the water stopped flowing from the top, I'm going to had a sink full of dishes, zero water coming.

For me, it was a little shocking. I haven't had that happen in a while. But that is actually a daily reality for many people in Mexico City.

What are the factors that brought us to this point?

Emily Green:

I would say that there is two major factors. One is extremely old infrastructure in terms of the water pipes. So the city loses around 40 percent of the water recedes because of leaks in the pipes. And that's been a long standing problem.

But on top of that compounding that is climate change. And that is really what's happening right here, you have this very volatile combination of old infrastructure, combined with climate change, which means there have been years of much less rainfall than normal. This is the level of the reservoir that provide the water to Mexico City, the very low. And so that's what's happening now this kind of volatile combination.

And you say that leakage has been a problem for a long time. Has anyone tried to do anything about it?

Oh, yeah, I remember I was here in 2018. And they the city shut off the water supply in order to try and address these leaks. And that was one of the first water stories I did in Mexico City was at that time, but of course, we're still having the same issues. So it doesn't seem that made a huge difference.

You said earlier that people who are better off feel it less than people who may be in need is that because of the resources they have? Or is it the parts of the city that are affected?

Both. I visited one area, it's called (inaudible), it is in the Greater Metropolitan Mexico City. And in this neighborhood, they haven't had running water for two years now. And the running water that they do have, it comes out and it looks dark brown, and it smelled like sewage.

So that is a bug where they're living in the city has a major impact. But I think on top of that, what's happening is that if the water is not coming from the tap, people are buying it from private water tanks. They're having it trucked in on private water tanks. And it's just a fact that that $7 that one spent is going to impact you more or less depending on how much money you have.

So it's a combination of where you live, and also how much money you can afford to spend on trucks, private trucks, bringing in water and paying for that.

What are the potential effects on schools, hospitals, homes, what are the people worrying about?

You know, if you don't have water, you can't flush the toilet, you can't do the dishes, you can't wash clothes. I mean, the list goes on and on. And so, it does have a massive impact. The former chief resilience Officer of Mexico City said that climate change is really the greatest risk to Mexico City. And I think that that is coming to bear right now.

If climate change is the greatest risk, it sounds like there, is there anything anyone can do about this right now?

Yeah, you can use less water. And I think that there can be measures taken to ensure that individuals use less water but also factories use less water. I think also this issue of the old infrastructures is a really serious one. And I think that steps can be taken to improve the inch — the infrastructure. So I would say it's again, it's there's no silver bullet to what's going on right now. The causes are very varied, and the solutions are also going to be buried.

Has anyone said that if nothing changes, if they predicted when taps are just going to run dry in Mexico City?

I mean, that's the talk of the town here is what they called day zero and this is the idea that the taps are essentially going to go on completely dry. The date that's being thrown out there as at the end of June. Most of the experts that I talked to say that's unlikely to happen. The reservoirs that supply a great percentage of Mexico City's water, they're not the only source of water. There's also underground aquifers.

So it's unlikely that the city is going to completely run out of water. But this is a very, very, very serious crisis. And it is not as if we know that next year, there's going to be a huge amount of rainfall. So if this drought continues, I don't even want to imagine where we're going to be in a year or two or three.

Emily Green in Mexico City where they're running out of water. Thank you very much.

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Valle de Bravo dam at historic lows in Mexico

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John Yang is the anchor of PBS News Weekend and a correspondent for the PBS NewsHour. He covered the first year of the Trump administration and is currently reporting on major national issues from Washington, DC, and across the country.

Kaisha Young is a general assignment producer at PBS News Weekend.

Winston Wilde is a coordinating producer at PBS News Weekend.

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Mexico City's 21 million residents are facing a severe water shortage

A woman walks near a water tanker truck in Mexico City.

MEXICO CITY — The most populous city in North America is in the grips of a severe water crisis, as lingering drought and years of low rainfall push the already-strained system that supplies Mexico City with running water to its limit.

More than 21 million residents across the Mexico City metropolitan area have endured weeks of water shortages, with local authorities imposing rations as reservoirs hit historic low levels .

Olga González, a 50-year-old woman who lives in the neighborhood of Coyoacán, said local officials have been using water tanker trucks to supply water to residents in the area, but there just isn’t enough.

“Sometimes it takes four or five days for the trucks to arrive,” she said.

People fill buckets with water from a water tanker truck in the Azcapotzalco neighborhood in Mexico City on Jan. 26, 2024.

The shortage means González has to do as much as possible with what little water is available.

“I recycle the water. I go into the shower and collect the water to use it in the toilet,” she said. “And it’s the same with the washing machine. I recycle the water from the wash cycle to use in the toilet.”

She added that she also has to buy drinking water from the store because the water provided by the city is too dirty and chlorinated for consumption.

In Mexico City’s Tlalpan district, Nancy Cabrera Cepeda, a 40-year-old office worker, said that local authorities typically provide residents with water only once a week.

“We have a tank and, when the water arrives it fills up, but in general we have no water supply,” she said.

The shortages have unfortunately become all too familiar for residents of Mexico City, where poorly planned urban development, insufficient infrastructure and the area’s unique history and geography are all taking a critical toll on the region’s water system.

In recent years, droughts intensified by climate change have magnified these ongoing challenges.

“Last year, we spent two months without water,” said Estela Hernández Villa, a 42-year-old merchant who lives in the Iztapalapa district. “There are areas that go even longer without water.”

Darío Solano-Rojas, an associate professor in the earth science engineering division at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, said it’s unlikely that the entire city will run out of water — a milestone that is sometimes referred to as “day zero” — but that the months ahead will likely prove challenging.

“If I run out of water, then for me it’s day zero already,” he said. “This kind of thing has been happening for a long while already.”

The region’s complicated relationship with water is as old as the city itself. Mexico City sits atop a high-altitude former lake bed that was drained in the 16th century after the Spanish conquered the area.

As a result, the city’s main source of water comes from pumping underground aquifers and channeling a network of canals, dams and reservoirs that make up the Cutzamala System.

Roughly 70% of water in Mexico City is pumped from underground, while the Cutzamala System supplies the other 30% to the Mexico City metropolitan area and the nearby Toluca Valley, Solano-Rojas said.

But underground aquifers are becoming stressed as the city rapidly expands, and years of overuse are causing the ground to sink, a process known as subsidence.

A 2021 study co-authored by Solano-Rojas and published in the journal JGR Solid Earth found that groundwater extraction has caused the city to sink at a rate of about 20 inches per year since 1950.

“The city has been growing a lot,” he said. “We have other sources of water but we still get water from underground, so subsidence continues and it’s a problem that hasn’t stopped ever since the construction of the big pyramids in the pre-Hispanic history of the city.”

Local infrastructure has also not kept pace with how quickly Mexico City is expanding, Solano-Rojas said, adding that authorities have been scrambling to repair leaks and replace aging pipes to bolster the region’s water system.

All of these issues are major challenges on their own, but he said that climate change is compounding the water crisis because the region has been suffering from ongoing drought conditions .

The country as a whole has been warmer and drier than normal, according to a recent report from Mexico’s National Water Commission (Conagua). The agency found that January was the warmest on record, with average temperatures 1.26 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than normal for the month.

Warmer temperatures and less precipitation across central Mexico mean fewer chances to replenish the aquifers and dams that feed the Cutzamala System.

“In Mexico City, we are not ready to respond as quickly as the drought is producing problems,” Solano-Rojas said.

All these stresses combined make it difficult for the city to provide enough water for human consumption, industrial activities and agriculture.

Many neighborhoods are feeling the brunt of the shortage.

“In the case of Iztapalapa, water scarcity has always been a big problem,” said Mariano Salazar, a 69-year-old community leader in the district. “There are almost 2 million of us in this municipality and we require 100 million cubic meters of water a year.”

Frustrations over the situation have fueled unrest. In January, protesters in the municipality of Acambay forced open the gate of an office of Mexico’s National Water Commission and broke windows, as reported by Reuters .

Local authorities have urged residents to conserve water and prioritize what is available for drinking, particularly as temperatures this week hover around 85 F.

For many like Hernández Villa in Iztapalapa, the shortage has forced major sacrifices on a daily basis.

“We try to wash our clothes as little as possible, we don’t use the shower anymore,” she said. “We have to leave the water in containers and bathe in jars to try to save as much as possible. We want the little water we manage to collect to last a little longer.”

Denise Chow reported from New York City and Albinson Linares from Mexico City.

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Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Albinson Linares is a reporter for Noticias Telemundo based in Mexico City. 

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This International Women’s Day, 8 March 2024, join the United Nations in celebrating under the theme Invest in women: Accelerate progress .

The world is facing many crises, ranging from geopolitical conflicts to soaring poverty levels and the escalating impacts of climate change. These challenges can only be addressed by solutions that empower women. By investing in women, we can spark change and speed the transition towards a healthier, safer, and more equal world for all.

Needed per year to achieve gender equality

An additional $360 billion is needed per year to achieve gender equality.

20% to boost GDP per capita could be achieved by closing the gender gap

Closing gender gaps in employment could boost GDP per capita by 20 per cent. 

300 million jobs created by 2030 by investing in care services

Closing gaps in care and expanding services with decent jobs could spark almost 300 million jobs by 2035.

If current trends continue, more than  342 million women and girls could be living extreme poverty  by 2030. To ensure women’s needs and priorities are considered, governments must prioritize gender-responsive financing and increase public spending on essential services and social protection.

Policymakers must also value, recognize, and account for the vital contribution women make to economies worldwide through paid and unpaid care work.  Women spend around three times more time on unpaid care work than men and if these activities were assigned a monetary value they would account for more than 40 per cent of GDP .

Investing in women and championing gender equality turbocharges a future where everyone in society can thrive, creating a world of boundless opportunity and empowerment for all.

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COMMENTS

  1. Why Visit Mexico City

    The Spaniards built Mexico City on the remains of the Aztec capital city of Tenochtitlan. The ruins of Teotihuacan are one of the main reasons I visit Mexico City every time I get to Mexico. The massive pyramids of Teotihuacan, from an ancient civilization of more than 2000 years ago, are just around the corner.

  2. Is Mexico City Worth Visiting? 25 Pros And Cons

    Reasons why you should visit Mexico City: Pros 1. Rich history & attractions: Historic Center Zócalo. Also known as the Plaza de la Constitución, the Zócalo is the main square and the historical heart of Mexico City. This place is a must-visit on anyone's Mexico City itinerary as it holds immense cultural and historical significance.

  3. Reasons Why You Should Visit Mexico City at Least Once in Your Lifetime

    If you like history and want to experience it in an atmosphere other than that of a museum, then Mexico City is the ideal place to visit. It's surrounded by some of the most important Aztec, Toltec and Mesoamerican ruins. They include the fantastic Teotihuacán, the towering sculptures of Tula, Hidalgo and the city centre ruins of the Templo ...

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    Amazing Architecture. Undoubtedly one of the most unique reasons to visit Mexico City is its dazzling selection of beautiful architecture, you can honestly stand pretty much anywhere in the historic center of Mexico City and you'll most likely be staring at an architectural wonder! The Metropolitan Cathedral towers over the city and is a ...

  5. 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Mexico City

    In essence, you can see and experience a lot in the city, as well as actively socialize, without denting your bank balance significantly. The affordability generally applies across all price points too. 2. Architecture. Mexico City's vibrant mix of traditional and contemporary is reflected in the architecture.

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    11. There's a chance of earthquakes. Mexico City experiences earthquakes occasionally, and the city and its residents are prepared to handle the situation. Mexico has a sophisticated seismic alarm system that gives up to a 60-second warning before an earthquake hits the city. If you hear the alarm, stay calm, don't run, and follow the locals ...

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    Mexico City Is Turning 500 in 2021 — Here's Why You Should Plan a Visit This City in Mexico Is a Favorite Among Locals — With Boutique Hotels, Bustling Markets, and a Legendary Nightlife Scene

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    Let's talk about 10 reasons why you should visit Mexico City. Mexico City is best known for its incredible history and culture. Mexico City is one of the oldest cities in the Western Hemisphere, and it's been a center of culture and politics for centuries. The city was founded by the Aztecs in 1325, and it served as the capital of the Aztec Empire.

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    Mexico City. Mexico, North America. A high-octane megalopolis boasting old-school cantinas, intriguing museums, inspired dining and boating along ancient canals, Mexico City is the sun in the Mexican solar system.

  11. Why Visit Mexico City? 13 Reasons For First-Timers!

    Now you know why to visit Mexico City. That's it! Our 12 reasons why to visit Mexico City. Hopefully, it gave you an answer to why Mexico City is becoming such a popular destination for travelers, ex-pats, and digital nomads. We have spent many months in Mexico City and we are still finding new places to explore every time we visit. It is an ...

  12. The 27 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

    Salón San Luis. The dance floor at this old-school salon, cloaked in red light, comes alive as locals, tourists, and old timers twirl and shuffle to a live band. Try your hand at salsa, merengue ...

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    Travelers must visit Plaza de La Constitución, locally referred to as El Zocalo, to see the historic heart of the city. El Zocalo is the main city square and in addition to the impressive architecture, there is also plenty to do there in the way of entertainment and restaurants. Hours: Open 24/7. Entrance Fee: Free.

  14. 16 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

    Considered the cultural center of Mexico City, the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts) is a must-visit. The exterior of this 20th-century palace showcases art nouveau and art deco-style ...

  15. Why Visit Mexico City?

    WHY VISIT MEXICO CITY. This is a question I must have been asked dozens of times, usually with a perplexed look and a raised eyebrow, in the weeks leading up to a long overdue girlfriend getaway to this bustling city of 22 million. Roma Norte, Mexico City.

  16. 11 Reasons Why You Should Visit Mexico City Immediately

    The HuffPost Mexico staff chose locations and experiences —new and/or reinvented — that help keep Mexico City among the most attractive cities in the world. 1. Eat Like a Local. A post shared by Eat Like A Local Mexico City (@eatlikealocalmx) on Nov 11, 2017 at 4:03pm PST. The country's culinary riches are in the markets, homes and streets.

  17. Mexico City Travel Tips: Dos And Donts To Know Before You Go

    Avoid the metro at the hora pico. The metro's hora pico (rush hour) in Mexico City occurs from roughly 6am to 9am and 6pm to 9pm each day. The crowds are overwhelming, and if you aren't familiar with the local lines, you could end up stressed and frustrated. If it's avoidable, skip the hora pico.

  18. Here's Why Mexico City Is One of the Trendiest Places to Visit Right

    Incidentally, tourists are taking notice. This year, American Express Travel named Mexico City one of its 2023 Trending Destinations, based on increased cardmember spending. (The others include ...

  19. The ultimate guide to Mexico City

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  20. Is Mexico City Worth Visiting: The Pros and Cons of CDMX

    Prostitution in CDMX is definitely a huge con when visiting the city. The Best Time To Visit Mexico City. Fortunately, the weather in CDMX makes it a year round destination. Temperatures range from 43-80 degrees Fahrenheit . The best time to visit Mexico City is between March to May when the weather is warm and dry.

  21. Why Mexico City Is Becoming One Of The Most Popular ...

    The town was initially named Tenochtitlan by the Aztec communities and is known for being one of the world's biggest and most progressive indigenous cities. The Spaniards (most likely envious of the Aztecs) took control of the city in 1521 and raided the town. They also changed the name to Mexico because it was easier to pronounce in Castellano.

  22. Top 5 Reasons to Visit Mexico City

    The Enchanting Fusion Of Ancient And Modern. When you do visit Mexico City, pause to appreciate how the old city fuses so seamlessly with the new. Founded by the Aztecs in 1325 on an island in Lake Texcoco, at its height the city had enormous temples and palaces and a huge ceremonial centre which was mostly destroyed by the Spanish, who rebuilt ...

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    Andaz Mexico City Condesa: Starting at 12,000 World of Hyatt points in the off-peak season, the location alone makes this hotel ideal for a Mexico City visit. Even if you have to get two rooms ...

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    You may be wondering why that is. Mexico's 'second' city after CDMX, ... The same goes for Guadalajara or any large city in Mexico. Read More: Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans Starting At $10 Per Week.

  25. Mexico City water crisis: Tourists should 'behave more ethically'

    "Over time, massive development in the city and over-exploration of the groundwater has occurred," Dr. Tahir Sufi, tourism professor at the Universidad de las Américas Puebla's School of Business ...

  26. U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Mexico

    The warning, which was issued this week by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico, reminds travelers to "travel smart" and "be informed" as "thousands of U.S. citizens visit Mexico ...

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    Mexico City, one of the world's most populous cities, could be just months away from running out of water. It's a crisis brought on by geography, growth and leaky infrastructure, all compounded ...

  28. Mexico City's 21 million residents are facing a severe water shortage

    Roughly 70% of water in Mexico City is pumped from underground, while the Cutzamala System supplies the other 30% to the Mexico City metropolitan area and the nearby Toluca Valley, Solano-Rojas said.

  29. In Dual Border Visits, Biden and Trump Try to Score Points at a

    President Biden and former President Donald J. Trump made dueling visits to the U.S.-Mexico border on Thursday, with Mr. Biden challenging his predecessor to "join me" in securing the country ...

  30. International Women's Day

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