What to Do in Mexico City: Insider’s Complete Guide to CDMX
Wondering what to do in Mexico City? I get this question constantly, and honestly, it’s one of my favorite topics because this city has completely stolen my heart.

I started with a one week trip and now I spend a few months every year in CDMX. Every time I visit I come across new spots that make me fall in love all over again.
Whether you’re here for the incredible food scene, world-class museums, or just wandering through Roma Norte and Condesa, Mexico City has this amazing way of feeling both massive and intimate.
When it comes to what to do in Mexico City, the list isn’t short. Your trip should include a mix of museums, activities, restaurants, and bars – and I’m here to share all my favorites.
What To Do In Mexico City: Quick Guide
Running short on time? Here’s a quick guide what do in Mexico City. There are way more recommendations in this article, these are just the quick hits!
Best Museums in Mexico City
- Frida Kahlo’s Blue House (tickets sell out ~1 month in advance)
- Anthropology museum (you can book skip the line tickets here)
Best Activities in Mexico City
- If I had to choose, I’d make time for Lucha Libre, the Teotihuacan Pyramids, and a food tour.
Where to Stay in Mexico City
- You want to anchor in the Roma Norte and Condesa neighborhoods, I particularly love the Andaz hotel with a pool.
A Brief Note on Why I Love CDMX So Much
Before we dive in, I just want to take a moment to describe why I love Mexico City so, so much.
Coming from New York, to me it honestly feels like Brooklyn, but in Latin America. Trendy bars, modern restaurants, but also beautiful culture and peaceful, quiet streets. Mexico City is an incredible combination of modern and traditional and it totally blows me away.
I’m aware that tourism to CDMX has totally exploded, so I try to recommend all my favorite spots and activities run by locals. They center in areas focused on tourists and safety, but just know there’s so much more to CDMX than what I can fit in this guide!
I wasn’t expecting just how much I would love Mexico City. Trust me, after your first trip, you’ll already be planning the next one.
What to Do In Mexico City: Best Museums
Mexico City has some seriously incredible museums. I’m talking world-class collections that rival anything you’ll find in Paris or New York, but with a uniquely Mexican perspective that makes them special.
Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul)

The Frida Kahlo Museum is probably the most famous attraction in all of CDMX, and honestly, it lives up to the hype. This bright blue house in Coyoacán tells the story of Mexico’s most iconic artist in the most intimate way possible.
Walking through the rooms where she actually lived and painted gives you this incredible connection to her art and her story. The garden is gorgeous, and the personal artifacts and studio make everything feel so real (I particularly loved the kitchen in Casa Azul – tons of little cups that spelled Frida and Diego).
This is the main museum where you absolutely need advance reservations – like, book as soon as you know your travel dates. They keep the capacity limited (which I appreciate, so it’s not packed), but that means you need to plan ahead. It took me a few years to actually get my ish together and book tickets far enough in advance to get a reservation.
For everything you need to know about visiting, including my favorite biking tour that comes with churros, read my complete Frida Kahlo Museum guide.
Museo Nacional de Antropología

This is hands down one of the best museums I’ve ever visited anywhere in the world. The National Museum of Anthropology houses incredible artifacts from pre-Columbian civilizations, and the famous Aztec Calendar Stone alone is worth the trip.
You want to go here before you go to the Teotihuacan Pyramids so you have a grounding in what you’re going to see.
The museum is absolutely massive with 22 rooms, so plan to spend at least 3-4 hours here. The Maya, Aztec, and Teotihuacan sections are total must-sees, but honestly, every room has something incredible.
The building itself is also stunning – that central courtyard with the massive umbrella-like structure is an architectural masterpiece.
👉 You can book a skip-the-line ticket here, which is worth it pretty much any time you visit (but I hate waiting in lines).
Chapultepec Castle

This castle is perched on a hill in the middle of Chapultepec Park and offers some of the best views in the city. I love walking through historic homes and palaces and the murals inside are absolutely breathtaking.
The castle itself has this crazy history – it’s been a royal residence, a military academy, and even the home of Emperor Maximilian. The opulent rooms give you a glimpse into Mexico’s imperial past.
Just remember you can’t bring large bags inside, so pack light for this one. And definitely climb up to the terrace for those killer city views.
👉 This tour takes you through both Chapultepec Castle and the Anthropology museum. It’s a great way to hit two amazing sites in one day with a knowledgeable guide.
What to Do In Mexico City: Best Activities & Day Trips
There are plenty of things to do in Mexico City, and honestly, most of them are worth it. You should explore, eat and drink to your heart’s content. There are some of my favorite day trips from Mexico City and activities in the city center.
Teotihuacan Pyramids
I had no idea there were ancient pyramids right outside of Mexico City. Turns out they’re about an hour away and they’re absolutely mind-blowing. This is one of the “must-do’s” in Mexico City for me. The Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon are massive and way older than the Aztecs – we’re talking 100-450 AD.

Walking down the Avenue of the Dead between these massive structures is an amazing experience. How can so many people not get around without Google Maps these days, and ancient civilizations could build pyramids without technology?
Pro tip: Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat or get some breathtaking views with a hot air balloon tour. The site is completely exposed with zero shade, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and lots of water.
I’ve been twice – once for a small group early morning tour and once on an incredibly hot air balloon experience. Both amazing.
👉 For insider tips and the exact tours I took, check out my guide to the best Mexico City pyramids tour.
Lucha Libre

Okay, I’ll admit I was totally skeptical about watching wrestling in Mexico. But Lucha Libre is so much more than just wrestling – it’s theater, comedy, and pure entertainment all rolled into one incredible show.
I’ve now been three times and would 100% go again. That being said, you need to go with someone who knows what they’re doing. Navigating the arena + explaining the show requires strong Spanish skills and understanding of Mexican culture.
The crowds get absolutely wild, the costumes are amazing, and the gymnastics are genuinely impressive. Turns out I love watching men do triple backflips while wearing sparkly costumes. Who knew?
The whole experience is wonderfully over-the-top and so much fun. Even if you’re not into theatrics, the cultural experience alone makes it worth going.
Book This Lucha Libre Tour with Tacos & Mezcal
I highly recommend going with a guide who can navigate you through the arena and explain the show. This Lucha tour also comes with tacos and mezcal. What more can you ask for?
For arena recommendations and more on what to expect, read my complete lucha libre guide.
Take a Mexican Cooking Class & Market Tour
I love, love, love taking cooking classes in every city I visit. It’s a fun way to get to know local ingredients and have a souvenir in the form of new recipes.
I took this cooking class in Roma Norte that starts with a market tour, and I’m still dreaming about the salsa I learned to make while zipping mezcal.
The experience begins at a local market where you shop for ingredients alongside a professional chef. They teach you what to look for, how to pick the best produce, and share stories about traditional Mexican cooking techniques. Then you head to their private cooking studio to prepare a full 4-course meal from scratch.
👉 This cooking class has 250+ five-star reviews for good reason. It’s a perfect blend of cultural immersion, hands-on learning, and absolutely delicious food.
Book ahead because it fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

Xochimilco
Xochimilco is a pretty fun day full of colorful boats floating on canals paired with dancing, drinking and snacks (if you go with the right group).
You’ll make your way down ancient canals on trajineras (traditional boats) while mariachi bands serenade you from passing boats.
This isn’t just a tourist trap – it’s actually a UNESCO World Heritage site with real historical significance. The floating gardens (chinampas) here are how the Aztecs grew their food when Tenochtitlan was surrounded by water.
The whole experience is wonderfully chaotic in the best Mexican way. For the full experience and what to expect, check out my complete Xochimilco guide.
What to Do In Mexico City: Best Markets To Visit
The markets of Mexico City are absolutely insane in the best way. They can be overwhelming at first, but that’s where you’ll find some of the most authentic food and shopping experiences.

I truly love wandering through all the stalls and thinking about what souvenirs I want for my kitchen (why do I love pitchers so much?).
Mercado de San Juan
Location: Centro Histórico (Ernesto Pugibet 21)
Best Days: Tuesday through Saturday (busiest on weekends)
Metro: Salto del Agua (Lines 1, 8)
This is the gourmet market where you’ll find exotic ingredients and some seriously creative vendors. We’re talking everything from escamoles (ant larvae) to imported cheeses and fresh truffles. It’s in Centro Histórico and perfect for adventurous eaters who want to see ingredients they’ve never encountered before.
The vendors here are incredibly knowledgeable about their products – don’t hesitate to ask questions. I’ve discovered some of my favorite specialty items here, including incredible mole pastes and artisanal chocolates.
Pro tip: come hungry because many vendors offer tastings.
How to Get There: Uber from Roma/Condesa takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. If you’re already in Centro Histórico, it’s walkable from the main square.
Mercado Medellín
Location: Roma Sur (Medellín 101)
Best Days: Wednesday through Sunday (quieter on weekdays)
Metro: Chilpancingo (Line 9), then 5-minute walk
Located in Roma Sur, this market specializes in Latin American foods beyond just Mexican cuisine. You’ll find Argentinian empanadas, Colombian arepas, and Venezuelan cachapas alongside traditional Mexican offerings. It’s also where many food tours start because it’s a great introduction to Mexican market culture without being too touristy.
The fruit section here is phenomenal – I always grab fresh juice from one of the stalls. The women running the juice stands remember your order after a few visits, which I love. There’s also a fantastic flower section if you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen and want to brighten up your space.
How to Get There: This is located right in Roma Sur, which is totally walkable. Otherwise, Uber is quick and cheap from anywhere in Roma or Condesa.
Mercado de Coyoacán
Location: Coyoacán neighborhood (Plaza Hidalgo area)
Best Days: Saturday and Sunday for the full experience
Metro: Coyoacán (Line 3)
Part market, part tourist attraction, but the tostada stands here are legendary. Look for the big one with yellow walls – you can’t miss it. The tostadas are piled high with fresh seafood and you can watch them prepare everything right in front of you.
I went to this one on a tour that combined both the Frida Kahlo museum and the Coyoacán neighborhood, which worked perfectly because you can easily walk between them. The weekend market extends into the surrounding streets with artisan crafts, books, and street performers.
How to Get There: Uber from Roma/Condesa takes about 20 minutes. If you’re combining it with a Frida Kahlo Museum visit, you can walk between them easily once you’re in the neighborhood.
Mercado de la Ciudadela
Location: Centro (Balderas y Plaza de la Ciudadela)
Best Days: Every day, but weekends have more artisan vendors
Metro: Balderas (Lines 1, 3)
I actually think this is a hidden gem because most tourists don’t visit this particular market. This is the go-to spot for souvenirs and handicrafts, but it’s not touristy in a cheesy way. You’ll find beautiful Talavera pottery, hand-woven textiles, leather goods, and traditional Mexican crafts.
My friend bought an incredible mexican painting and I’m eyeing some copper vases for my next visit (I’m still wondering how to fit them in my NY apartment).
I particularly love the textile section – you can find incredible embroidered blankets and rebozos (traditional shawls) at reasonable prices. The vendors are used to tourists but still maintain authentic pricing, especially if you speak a little Spanish.
How to Get There: Uber from Roma/Condesa is about 15 minutes. If you’re already exploring Centro Histórico, it’s walkable from the main attractions.
Mercado Roma
Location: Roma Norte (Querétaro 225)
Best Days: Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays)
Metro: Insurgentes (Line 1) + 10-minute walk
This is the modern, hipster market that locals in Roma Norte frequent. It’s more of a food hall concept with individual vendors offering everything from Korean tacos to artisanal ice cream. The quality is excellent and it’s a great place to try fusion dishes that represent modern Mexico City food culture.
The coffee here is outstanding – there are usually 2-3 specialty coffee vendors with beans from different regions of Mexico (and we know I love coffee all over the world). It’s also one of the few markets where you’ll commonly hear English, making it a comfortable starting point if you’re new to Mexican markets.
How to Get There: Walking distance from anywhere in Roma Norte – it’s very central to the neighborhood. Uber from Condesa is about 5 minutes.
Mercado de Jamaica
Location: Venustiano Carranza (about 20 minutes southeast of Roma)
Best Days: Early morning Tuesday through Sunday (closes by 4pm)
Specialty: Mexico’s largest flower market
This is where Mexico City gets its flowers – we’re talking massive wholesale operations alongside smaller vendors selling the most beautiful arrangements you’ve ever seen. The colors are absolutely incredible, especially if you go early in the morning when everything is fresh.
It’s a bit of a trek from the main tourist areas, but if you love flowers or want to see a side of Mexico City that most tourists miss, it’s worth the trip. The vendors are working-class locals, so don’t expect much English, but they’re generally friendly if you’re respectful.
How to Get There: Uber is your best bet – about 25-30 minutes from Roma/Condesa depending on traffic. Not really walkable from the main tourist areas.
Mexico City Market Tips from Someone Who’s Been There

Bring Cash: Most vendors only accept pesos, and many don’t have change for large bills. Bring small bills.
Go Hungry: The food at these markets is incredible and cheap. Don’t eat beforehand – treat it as a meal destination.
Learn Basic Spanish: “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (how much does it cost?) and “¿Puedo probar?” (can I try it?) will get you far.
Peak Times: Most markets are busiest between 10am-2pm on weekends. Go early if you want to avoid crowds, or embrace the chaos if you want the full experience.
Safety: Stick to the main aisles, don’t flash expensive items, and be aware of your belongings in crowded areas. That said, I’ve never had any issues at these markets.
Mexico City Food Scene: From Street Tacos to Fine Dining
Let’s be real – the food is probably why you’re really coming to Mexico City. And honestly, the food scene here is so good it’s almost ridiculous. Seriously, if you’re wondering what to do in Mexico City, the answer is eat.
You can have a life-changing taco from a street cart for 15 pesos, then drop serious cash on a tasting menu at one of the world’s best restaurants the same day. That range is part of what makes this city so special for a Mexico City foodie.
Mexico City Fine Dining



Mexico City’s restaurant scene is world-class, and I mean that literally. Several restaurants here consistently rank among the world’s best, and for good reason. Will you try crickets and ants? Probably. Will it taste amazing? Definitely.
- Pujol: Enrique Olvera’s flagship restaurant basically put modern Mexican cuisine on the global map. The famous mole dish alone is worth the splurge, but book months ahead (most people plan a trip to CDMX around getting a reservation at Pujol).
I actually called the American Express Platinum concierge to help me get my reservation. It’s one of the perks that makes the card worth it, in my opinion. - Quintonil: Another world-renowned spot that focuses on indigenous Mexican ingredients. If you can’t get into Pujol (or even if you can!) go here. The presentations here are almost too beautiful to eat (almost).
- Sud 777: This was actually the first Michelin star restaurant I went to in CDMX. It’s located farther south in the city, about 30 minutes outside the core tourist zones, but the atmosphere is beautiful and it’s one of the more affordable tasting menus at this level.
For my complete restaurant recommendations with specific dishes to order, check out my guide to the best restaurants in Mexico City.
Best Restaurants in Mexico City: My Personal Favorites



- Marmota: Honestly, this is maybe my favorite restaurant in Mexico City (which is a bold statement considering all the options!). I go here every single trip, usually more than once. It’s small, stylish, and serves a rotating menu of seasonal plates that are perfect for sharing.
- Nogal Nogal: If you do one thing in Mexico City, this should be it. Truly one of the most magical nights I’ve had in CDMX. You go to a home, filled with candles, where a chef prepares a meal for about 20 people. You have to DM them on Instagram to get a reservation, but if you can get one, you absolutely should go.
- Contramar / Entremar: Contramar is one of those restaurants that everyone recommends for good reason. The tuna tostadas and red and green fish are iconic and delicious. If you can’t get a reservation, try Entremar – it’s from the same team with nearly the same menu, but often easier to get a table.
- El Pez Azul: If you’re staying in Condesa, make a detour to El Pez Azul. They serve some of the best fish tacos in Mexico City, hands down. I personally love the shrimp tacos and spicy margaritas.
- Neveria Postre: This was a local tip from my friend Mary and now it’s a staple for me. Nevería Postre does incredible paletas (Mexican popsicles), and on Wednesdays they’re 2-for-1. I recommend maracuya (passionfruit) or limon (lime).
Street Food in Mexico City

- Tacos al Pastor: These are the tacos that will ruin all other tacos for you forever. The marinated pork is cooked on a vertical spit called a trompo, and it’s served with onions, cilantro, and a slice of pineapple that somehow makes everything perfect.
- Suadero Tacos: I also strongly recommend ordering Suadero tacos which are rich, delicious, and mouth watering. You’ll want at least 3. This is my go-to order.
- Esquites: These are cups of freshly roasted corn, usually mixed with mayonnaise and lime. It’s honestly so, so delicious.
⚠️Note: I would not recommend eating fresh vegetables like cilantro at a street cart. I love, love, love street food in Mexico City (so much so I wrote an entire article on it here!), but the water isn’t potable so you need to be careful.
If it’s cooked, you’re good. If it comes with a skin (like an onion or lime), you’re good. If it’s fresh/raw (like cilantro or tomatoes), I’d skip it. Better safe than sorry.
This is also why I highly recommend starting your time in Mexico City with a street food tour. You’ll get a local guide to walk you through the local ingredients, teach you what to order, and where you can order that’s safe.
Book This Mexico City Street Food + Mezcal Tour
I recommend this street food tour that takes you through tastings of both tacos AND mezcal. If you’re not a big drinker, these are both interesting and unique parts of Mexican culinary culture you get to explore with a pro. That’s a win in my book.
Best Mexico City Bars
Mexico City’s bar scene is pretty fun. We’re talking cocktail bars that consistently rank among the world’s best, combined with traditional mezcalerías and dive bars that have been serving locals for decades.
Honestly, you should be drinking mezcal every day. My personal favorite is Tobala, but my boyfriend loves the slightly sweeter Espadin. Grab a mezcal, an orange slice, and enjoy.
Most Famous Bars in Mexico City (Reservations Required)
These are the bars that put Mexico City on the global cocktail map. You’ll need reservations and should be prepared for a wait, but they’re worth the hype.
- Handshake Speakeasy: Currently ranked #1 bar in the world by World’s 50 Best Bars. This speakeasy requires you to find door #13 and get a secret code from their Instagram. The cocktails are incredibly inventive, and the 1920s atmosphere is perfect. Only seats 34 people, so book way ahead.
- Tlecan: Ranked #20 in the world, this mezcalería feels like walking into a pre-Hispanic tomb. They use Mexican ingredients and artisanal mezcals from small producers to create exceptional cocktails. Try the Tascalate Sour or Pulque Colada.
- Licorería Limantour: The bar that started Mexico City’s craft cocktail scene in 2011. Famous for their Margarita al Pastor and creative agave-forward cocktails. Always packed, so definitely make a reservation.
My Favorite Bars

- Baltra Bar: Known for Martini Tuesday happy hour. Get there early, like before it opens – it fills up fast. This is tucked away in Condesa, and this intimate spot makes some of the best cocktails in the city. All their syrups and cordials are housemade.
- Ladina Bar: A perfect dive bar with amazing cocktails and a laid-back vibe. This is one of my absolute favorites for a casual night out.
- Tierra Seca: This hole in the wall mezcalería is a great way to start the night. It’s seriously tiny, but seriously delicious. They have an extensive menu of mezcals from different regions, and the staff actually knows their stuff.
- Petanca Roma: A bar with bocce ball? Count me in. A must-do activity that combines drinks with games in an open-air courtyard.
- Bijou Drinking Room: A speakeasy where you order drinks from a Rubik’s cube. It’s definitely an inventive experience.
Traditional Pulquerías
Las Duelistas: This historic pulquería in Centro has been serving pulque (fermented agave juice) since 1912. It gets absolutely packed with locals after work, and the energy is incredible.
Pulque is an acquired taste – it’s thick, slightly sour, and usually flavored with fruit. To be honest, I don’t love it. But experiencing a traditional pulquería is such a unique cultural experience so you have to at least try it.
Where to Stay in Mexico City: The Best Neighborhoods For Tourists
Each neighborhood in CDMX has its own personality. I’ve stayed in several over the years, and honestly, choosing where to base yourself can really change your trip. For more detailed neighborhood advice and hotel recommendations, check out my complete guide to where to stay in Mexico City.

Roma Norte
This is one of my favorite neighborhoods and truly one of the best places to stay in Mexico City. Roma Norte is where you’ll find tree-lined streets, incredible restaurants, and that perfect mix of local charm and cosmopolitan energy.
The area is laid out on a simple grid, making it super walkable. You can go from a hole-in-the-wall taco stand (like this amazing Birria taco stand) to a world-class cocktail bar (like Tlecan, which looks like the movie set of Dune, in my opinion) within two blocks, and that’s exactly what makes it special.
The streets are lined with beautiful colonial buildings painted in vibrant colors, and there’s always something happening. Whether it’s live music spilling out of a bar or an impromptu art installation, Roma Norte just feels alive.
- 🏨 Hotel Recommendation: Nima Local House Hotel & Spa. It’s luxurious and peaceful, offering a great way to unwind after long days exploring. Check out the latest prices and availability here.
La Condesa
If Roma Norte is trendy, then Condesa is a little more hipster but honestly, I feel the two neighborhoods are quite similar and both great.
Condesa centers around two gorgeous parks (Parque México and Parque España) and feels like you’ve stumbled into a small European city.

The oval-shaped layout comes from its history as a horse racing track. One of my favorite activities in Mexico City is picking up a popsicle at Neveria Postre and walking the Avenida Amsterdam Loop in Condesa. It’s about a mile long pedestrian path under beautiful trees with shops and restaurants on either side.
The Parque México and Parque España are absolute gems, especially on weekends when locals bring their dogs and kids out to play. Be warned, Sundays are puppy and kitten adoption days, and it’s very hard to resist.
🏨 Hotel Recommendation: Andaz Mexico City Condesa. This is an awesome hotel (part of the Hyatt family, for my points fans!) and has a fantastic rooftop pool. Check out the latest prices and availability here.
Centro Histórico
The historic center is where it all began, literally. This is where the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan once stood, and walking around here, you can still feel that incredible history.
Start at the massive Zócalo (one of the largest public squares in the world) and work your way out. The architecture here is absolutely stunning – massive colonial buildings mixed with Art Deco gems from the early 20th century. Get a churro at El Moro while you’re here!
🏨 Hotel Recommendation: Gran Hotel Ciudad De Mexico. This is a beautiful, vintage hotel right near the Zocalo. The stained glass ceiling alone makes it worth it. Check out the latest prices and availability here.
Fair warning though: Centro gets incredibly crowded, especially around the major tourist sites. It’s amazing during the day, but I’d avoid wandering the main square late at night.
Polanco
Polanco is where you go when you want to feel fancy. This upscale neighborhood north of Chapultepec Park is all about luxury shopping, high-end restaurants, and Mexico City’s most exclusive hotels.
If you’re into fine dining or designer shopping, this is your playground. It’s also home to some incredible restaurants and museums, including the stunning Museo Soumaya with its futuristic architecture.
🏨 Hotel Recommendation: JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City Polanco. This is some serious, 5-star luxury in an unbeatable Polanco location. Check out the latest prices and availability here.
Practical Tips for Getting Around Mexico City
CDMX is massive – we’re talking over 20 million people in the metro area. That means getting around requires some strategy, but once you figure it out, it’s totally manageable.
Uber vs. Public Transport: Traffic in Mexico City
Uber is absolutely your best friend in Mexico City. It’s safe, reliable, drivers know where they’re going, and you don’t have to worry about language barriers or getting the right change.
Just be prepared for traffic. Between 8am and 11am and 4pm to 8pm, it can take forever to get anywhere. I’ve spent an hour going five miles, so plan accordingly.
The metro system is actually pretty good and super cheap (like 5 pesos), but it gets incredibly crowded during rush hour. I wouldn’t use it if you’re new to Mexico City.
Safety of Mexico City
Let me start by saying, I feel very safe in Mexico City. CDMX gets a bad rap safety-wise, but honestly, in the areas where you’ll be spending time, it’s no different from any other major city. Use common sense and you’ll be fine.
For detailed safety tips and what areas to avoid, check out my complete guide: Is it safe in Mexico City?
Mexico City Essential Tips
- Altitude: Mexico City sits at 7,350 feet above sea level. Take it easy your first day, drink lots of water, and don’t be surprised if you feel a bit winded walking up stairs.
- Water: Don’t drink the tap water. Stick to bottled water, and be careful with ice in drinks from street vendors. I love getting fresh orange juice in the mornings, I just skip the ice.
- Cash: Bring pesos for street food and small vendors. Most restaurants accept cards.
When to Visit Mexico City
I’ve been to CDMX in different seasons, and timing really can make a difference in your experience.
Best time: October through April is the dry season with pleasant weather, perfect for walking around the city and exploring different neighborhoods. Just keep in mind that December through February can get surprisingly chilly, especially at night due to the altitude.
Rainy season: June through September means daily afternoon thunderstorms. They’re usually brief but intense, so pack an umbrella and plan indoor activities for late afternoons.
Temperature swings: The altitude makes temperature changes pretty dramatic year-round – it might be 70°F in the afternoon and 45°F at night, so always pack layers.
Mexico City Itinerary: 4 Days in Mexico City
For a detailed day-by-day breakdown with specific recommendations, check out my complete 4 days in Mexico City itinerary which comes with a map of the itinerary below.
In the meantime, here’s a quick breakdown. You can hit the major highlights without feeling rushed, plus have time to really soak in the neighborhoods.
Day 1 – History: Start with coffee at Quiasmo Coffee Bar, then explore Chapultepec Castle and the National Museum of Anthropology. These spots will give you incredible context for Mexico’s history. End with dinner at Marmota (my absolute favorite restaurant) and drinks at Ladina Bar.
Day 2 – Adventure: Early morning trip to Teotihuacan pyramids – go with a guide and beat the crowds. It’s a long day, so keep dinner casual at El Sirloin de la Roma for incredible tacos and mojitos with gummy sharks.
Day 3 – Wander & Enjoy: Explore Roma Norte and Condesa neighborhoods. Breakfast at Lardo, wander through Parque México, shop at Proyecto Rufina, grab popsicles at Nevería Postre. Lunch at El Pez Azul for seafood tacos, then experience Lucha Libre in the evening (it’s way more fun than you’d expect!).
Day 4 – Art & Culture: Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacán, then float through Xochimilco canals on colorful trajineras. End with dinner at Migrante and a nightcap at Tierra Seca Mezcaleria.
Frequently Asked Questions
100% Yes. Mexico City is absolutely packed with incredible things to do! From world-class museums like the Frida Kahlo Museum to amazing street food tours, vibrant neighborhoods like Roma Norte and Condesa, exciting lucha libre shows, and day trips to ancient pyramids. The city has something for literally every type of traveler, and you’ll probably run out of time before you run out of things to do.
Three days gives you a solid taste of Mexico City, but you’ll want to come back! You can hit the major highlights like Chapultepec Park, the Anthropology Museum, the Pyramids, and explore Roma Norte and Condesa. But this city is so massive and has incredible depth, so think of three days as your introduction rather than a complete exploration.
It’s really hard to pick just one, but the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul) in Coyoacán is probably the most popular single attraction. But honestly, many visitors find that the overall experience of exploring different neighborhoods, trying the incredible food scene, and visiting multiple museums is way more rewarding than focusing on any single site. The city itself is the attraction.
There’s no such thing as too long in Mexico City! Seven days lets you really dive deep into different neighborhoods, take day trips to places like Teotihuacan and Xochimilco without rushing, properly explore the food scene, and experience the city at a much calmer pace. Most of my friends find themselves wanting even more time to explore this massive, fascinating city. I spend months here and still discover new things!
What to Do in Mexico City: Final Thoughts
There truly is no shortage of options when it comes to what to do in Mexico City. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, you’ll discover a new neighborhood, try an amazing taco style you’ve never heard of, or stumble upon an incredible piece of street art.
I love how intimate it feels while also being incredibly massive.
Whether you’re here for the delicious food scene, the rich history, the world-class art, or just exploring the shops and neighborhoods, what to do in Mexico City really comes down to staying curious and being open to new experiences.
Trust me, it’s worth a visit.
Cheers to your next adventure! 🇲🇽