Essential 4 Days in Mexico City Itinerary [2024]

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Planning to spend 4 days in Mexico City? This Mexico City itinerary covers everything you should see and do on your first trip to CDMX!

Ancient Aztec ruins, world-class museums, trendy shopping districts, tree-lined streets, stunning colonial architecture, bustling local markets… this is just a snapshot of what you’ll encounter in Mexico City! As the largest city in North America and the capital of Mexico, this metropolis is a dynamic and fascinating destination for any traveler.

Mexico City had been gaining popularity for years, and during the pandemic, it became a haven for digital nomads looking for a convenient, affordable place to base themselves. Since then, the buzz about this incredible city has only become louder. 

Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Mexico City always has something new and exciting to offer. This Mexico City itinerary is designed to give you an introduction to the culture and charm of the megalopolis while showing off some of the main highlights. 

There is SO MUCH to see and do that four days in Mexico City will really only let you scratch the surface. But hey, you’ve gotta start somewhere!

I’ve visited Mexico City at least a dozen times, and this itinerary is an amalgamation of many different experiences I’ve had there. I’ve included a lot of the main attractions as well as some lesser-known spots.

This 4-day itinerary is divided up by neighborhood to help you save on transportation time (and expenses). If you ask me, this is the perfect itinerary for your first visit! 

Mexico City map

I’ll cover a lot of different boroughs and attractions in this itinerary, so I’ve plotted all of my recommendations on this interactive map for easy reference.

Mexico City Travel Tips: The Basics

Is Mexico City safe?

Mexico City is generally quite safe. Like any large city, some areas are rougher than others, but you are unlikely to visit those spots during your trip.

I have never had any safety issues while visiting Mexico City, but I do know multiple people who have had items stolen. A local friend of mine was even pickpocketed on the metro while we were traveling together. 🤦🏻‍♀️

It’s important to take precautions against pickpockets, especially if you’ll be visiting packed spaces (such as free concerts in the Zocalo) or using crowded public transportation.

An anti-theft purse or backpack is a great way to protect your belongings while you’re out and about. I carry this purse, but I like the looks of this backpack if you prefer something larger. 

I highly recommend having a local SIM card or eSIM in your phone so you can access data for apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, WhatsApp, and Uber. 

Mexico is routinely scrutinized when it comes to safety, but for what it’s worth, I feel completely comfortable traveling here, even by myself. In fact, it’s one of my favorite solo travel destinations in Mexico!

If you’re nervous about traveling alone to Mexico, make sure you check out this article full of safety tips for female travelers. It’s packed with actionable tips to help you stay out of trouble on your trip.

Traveling soon? Don’t forget to buy travel insurance for Mexico. Insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing you can get the help you need if anything goes wrong. SafetyWing is the provider that I recommend.

When is the best time to go to Mexico City?

The best time to visit CDMX is whenever you can! As such a large city, there’s no shortage of fun activities to partake in all year round.

In terms of weather, the climate is quite mild all year round. It gets cold in the winter, but there’s still plenty of sun.

Summer is typically hot, but it is also the rainy season, which means there are heavy rain showers, usually in the afternoon. The rain can be a bit inconvenient, but it won’t ruin your trip.

Stay connected in Mexico with this affordable eSIM!

What to pack for Mexico City?

When it comes to clothing, your standard street attire is perfect for wearing around Mexico City. I’ve written a detailed packing list with exactly what to wear in CDMX, but generally speaking, your typical day-to-day wardrobe is probably fine. Pack warm layers for the winter (it gets cold) and light layers for the summer (it’s hot during the day and cool at night).

Make sure to pack comfortable shoes (or sandals) because you’re bound to do a lot of walking. I go everywhere in my Vans slip-ons, but a pair of comfortable runners would be a good alternative.

Aside from clothing, here’s a quick packing checklist with items that might make your trip a little easier:

• A LifeStraw water bottle – Tap water in Mexico isn’t safe to drink… unless you filter it with a LifeStraw! This handy bottle will save you from having to buy single-use bottles or jugs of water during your trip.

• Antidiarrheal Medication – Having a few Pepto-Bismol (or whatever your favorite brand is) tablets on hand is a good idea. You wouldn’t be the first foreign visitor who fell ill for a spell on a visit to Mexico. It’s not inevitable, but it sucks to be caught off-guard. Having some emergency meds can be a lifesaver. Note: you can buy these at any corner store in Mexico, but again, it’s nice to have them before you need them.

• Kleenex – Public restrooms in Mexico aren’t always well-stocked. It’s wise to have a packet of Kleenex on you, just in case.

• Portable Battery Pack – Snapping photos, updating your Insta story, and using Google Translate will drain your phone battery in no time. Having an extra stash of juice is not only handy but also safer, as you’ll have an Uber or an emergency call at the touch of your fingers.

Important things to know about Mexico City

• Museums in Mexico City are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.

• The currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso. While US dollars are commonly accepted in tourist hotspots like Cancun, they are unlikely to be accepted in Mexico City (apart from at the airport).

• Wondering about the safest way to get from the Mexico City airport to your hotel or Airbnb? Click here.

• If you choose to visit the Frida Kahlo house, it’s highly recommended that you purchase tickets in advance, as the lines can be super long. Reservations cost a few pesos more, but it beats spending hours in line!

And now for the most important Mexico City travel trip…

Wondering how to get the best currency exchange rate in Mexico? Use Wise!

What to eat in Mexico City

If you’re anything like me, eating is probably at least 60% of the reason you bother to go anywhere. Just kidding! …or am I?

The point is, there is SO MUCH great food in Mexico City, from traditional Mexican dishes to fusion foods, vegan restaurants, and international cuisine… you’ll find a little of everything! 

Whether it’s your first visit to Mexico or your 50th, I strongly encourage you to sample an array of Mexican plates, snacks, and beverages.

If you do not return home from Mexico in a food coma, did you even go?

Here’s a brief foodie bucket list for your Mexico City trip:

• Churros
• Elote/esquite
• Tacos al pastor
• Barbacoa tacos
• Tortilla Soup
• Quesadillas
• Chilaquiles
• Mole
• Pozole
• All of the salsas

Your 4-Day Mexico City Itinerary

Day 1: La Condesa & Chapultepec Park

Ideally, you would spend your first day in CDMX lounging around as you try to adjust to the altitude and the lower air quality. But, since you only have 4 days in Mexico City, you have to hit the ground running… or, briskly walking at the very least.

It’s not uncommon for visitors to feel tired and headachey, or even nauseated when they first arrive. If you happen to experience any of these symptoms, just take it easy while your body acclimates. You’re likely experiencing altitude sickness.

Today’s activities are meant to help you get your bearings without over-exerting so you can enjoy the rest of your trip without feeling under the weather!

If you’ve taken my advice (and the advice of just about anyone else who has visited Mexico City recently), you’ll be staying in the Condesa neighborhood. Today is all about getting to know your home base.

Brunch at Maque

Maque is a bakery/cafe located just across from Parque Mexico, in the Condesa neighborhood. It is a great spot to savor a relaxing brunch with a background so photogenic that your friends back home will regret not making the trip with you.

If you’re in the mood for a light meal, opt for a tasty pan dulce to pair with a latte. However, if you’d rather fuel up for the day, the traditional breakfasts at Maque are delicious as well. I recommend one of the egg dishes. But keep in mind that the portions are huge– bring your appetite!

Vegan/Veggie Alternative: For a delicious vegan meal in Mexico City, head to Forever Vegano in Polanco. The food is delicious (and photogenic!), and the cafe is super cute. There’s a vegan ice cream spot next door, too. Just sayin’!

Morning: Wander Parque Mexico & Parque España

Parque Mexico and Parque España are two beautiful adjoining city parks in Condesa. Here you will enjoy a leisurely, shaded stroll while people-watching or dog-watching.

As someone who has an innate need to pet every dog, I find these parks positively overwhelming… In a good way!

You are sure to see quite an array of designer dogs in this park. You may even spot the famous Xoloinzcuitli, a rare breed of hairless dog that is native to Mexico!

The parks are bordered by a blend of stunning mansions, boutique stores, and an assortment of cafes and bars. You’ll definitely want to snap photos of some of them as these are some of the city’s most alluring casas.

Afternoon: Bosque de Chapultepec & Chapultepec Castle

Occupying nearly 1700 acres in the heart of Mexico City, Chapultepec Park is home to multiple museums, a zoo, a butterfly sanctuary, and many other points of interest. It’s the largest urban park in Latin America. You could easily spend a day (or more!) taking in all that there is to see and do in Chapultepec Park.

As a fan of historic buildings and home tours, I have to recommend visiting the Castillo de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Castle) while you’re in the park. 

This castle and its various inhabitants have had a tumultuous story throughout Mexican history; it has been the home of the Viceroy of Spanish, a military school, the President’s residence (say that five times fast!), and is now home to the National History Museum of Mexico.

The National History Museum contains all kinds of interesting artifacts from Mexico’s history, including a series of flags from the Mexican Revolution, a collection of antique jewelry, and some ornate carriages from the 1800s.

You’ll also find some thought-provoking murals by famous Mexican muralists like Diego Rivera, Siquieros, and Orozco, among other impressive pieces of art.

You can also tour some of the castle’s rooms, which are staged with period furniture and art pieces. My favorite part of the castle is the roof garden outside the former living quarters of President Porfirio Diaz.

From there (and from the expansive patio on the ground floor), you can enjoy some stunning views over CDMX and the rest of the Bosque de Chapultepec.

Before you leave, don’t forget to visit the garden near the main gate. This manicured green space is both peaceful and photogenic.

After visiting the castle, perhaps you’d like to check out some of the park’s other attractions.

Visit one of Chapultepec’s lakes and rent a little boat to cruise around on, sample a tasty Mexican snack from a food cart, or simply wander the meandering, tree-lined paths. 

If you’re looking for more culture, consider checking out some of these museums inside the park:

• Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Anthropology Museum)
• Museo de Arte Moderno (Modern Art Museum)
• Museo Tamayo (Contemporary Art Museum) 

Looking for the best things to do in Mexico? This is my favorite platform for booking tours!

Evening: Dinner in Condesa

After a day of exploring the parks, it’s time for a delicious dinner of Mexican cuisine. Condesa’s streets are lined with countless cafes, bars, and restaurants offering all kinds of food. You’ll find everything from wings and burgers to ramen, sushi, Mexican, vegan, and beyond!

If you’re in the mood for a simple but delicious meal of typical Mexican fare, hit up Antojitos Lety for flautas or a plate of enchiladas.

For a splurge, check out Pujol. This trendy, fine-dining restaurant is found in the nearby neighborhood of Polanco. It doesn’t actually have a Michelin star (though I always hear that it does), but it’s certainly buzzy. The menu changes frequently but features modern takes on traditional Mexican food. If you’re on the hunt for a unique dining experience, Pujol is worth a try!

After eating, grab an ice cream at Nevería Roxy, or head to one of the many bars to sip tequila or mezcal!

Day 2 – Coyoacán & Xochimilco

Today is all about two popular destinations in the south of Mexico City: Coyoacán and Xochimilco.

In the UNESCO World Heritage site, Xochimilco, on a lively boat adventure you’ll discover the legacy of the prehispanic canal systems that once served the city of Tenochtitlán.

Then, you’ll move on to Coyoacán and experience the charm of a traditional, historic city.

Finally, you’ll visit one of Mexico City’s most popular museums, the famous Casa Azul, where Frida Kahlo lived and worked with her husband Diego Rivera.

But none of this will be possible without a filling breakfast…

Breakfast: Sample traditional fare at Jugos Alex

Jugos Alex has “no-frills” in comparison with the numerous trendy eateries in Condesa, but I love it all the same. This is the perfect place to cross a few items off of your CDMX food bucket list. You’ll find tasty, affordable fare accompanied by exceptional service.

My go-to order is the huevos a la mexicana, which are scrambled eggs with tomatoes, onions, and chilis. I also highly recommend trying the café de olla, coffee infused with cinnamon and sweetened with unrefined cane sugar.

Another reason to love Jugos Alex: I recently visited with a friend who is a vegetarian, and the staff members were more than happy to adjust menu items to accommodate her.

Morning: A Trajinera Cruise in Xochimilco

If you’d rather take the metro (for 5 pesos), you’ll need to get off at the Tasqueña station and then take a taxi/Uber to the embarcadero (where the boats leave from) called Nuevo Nativitas in Xochimilco.

Xochimilco is a borough within Mexico City that is known for its extensive network of canals. Historically, the canals were used to transport goods between Xochimilco and Tenochtitlán (which we now know as CDMX’s historic center).

Nowadays, the canals are filled with colorful trajineras, large, wooden boats that shuttle passengers on tours throughout the waterways.

In the past, the brightly painted signs on the top of each boat (usually bearing a woman’s name) were decorated with freshly cut flowers, but these days, paint is more common.

While many residents of Xochilmilco still use the canals to commute between work or school, they are most popular as a Sunday respite.

Families, friends, and tourists alike will venture out to this borough, rent a trajinera for a few hours and throw a party, or simply kick back and relax while drifting along the water.

The last time I went, one of the other boats was celebrating their little girl’s birthday, complete with tons of family members, cake, and a mariachi band!

As you make your way through the canals, vendors selling souvenirs, flower crowns, and a range of foods and beverages will approach your boat. Though, if you’re looking to drink, it’s more cost-effective to pick up a 6-pack before climbing aboard.

You’ll also have the opportunity to hire a mariachi band to serenade you along the way!

Sunday is the busiest and most lively day to visit Xochimilco, as many local families are sure to be on the water. That doesn’t mean you should avoid this attraction on Sundays, though– it’s the best time to go!

Solo Travel Tip: If you’re visiting Mexico City on your own, take a group tour of Xochimilco. This experience is way more fun when you have companions to share it with!

After breakfast, grab an Uber and head south from Condesa to Xochimilco. It will take about an hour to get to Xochimilco from Condesa (depending on traffic) and will likely cost about $200 MXN.

When I last visited Xochimilco, I paid $700 MXN for a 2-hour excursion. I’m not sure if there’s a standard price for the experience, but expect to pay somewhere in the ballpark of $700 – $900 MXN for 2 hours. You should not have to pay per person.

After your trajinera experience, it’s time to call another Uber and head to Coyoacán. The Jardín Centenario is a good place to begin your exploration, and it’s just a few minutes walk from the Frida Kahlo house.

Lunch: Coyoacán

If you didn’t fill up on snacks during your Xochimilco cruise, plan to grab lunch in Coyoacán.

There are plenty of cafés surrounding Jardín Centenario and Plaza Hidalgo, which is right next to it. Among them, you’ll find La Casa de Los Tacos, which comes highly recommended.

Cafe El Jarocho is a good option if you’re more in the mood for a coffee. The cafe de olla and the hot chocolate are both excellent.

There are also tons of street food options in this part of the city, so you can always let your nose decide where to eat! 

Afternoon: Casa Azul & Explore Coyoacán

Many visitors trek down to Coyoacán to visit the Frida Kahlo Museum, but this charming little city is well worth a visit, even if you couldn’t care less about the Frida Museum.

I’ve plotted some key stops on this map, but I encourage you to just wander around. You never know what you’ll find! Follow your heart or your nose and see where it takes you!

Begin your visit to Coyoacán at the Jardín Centenario and work outwards from there. The cobblestone streets of this area are lined with boutique shops, hole-in-the-wall eateries, and bookstores.

Closer to the square, stop by the Mercado Artesanal Mexicano. This is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs. You’ll find everything from embroidered dresses and blouses to keychains and jewelry, pottery, and so, so much more!

You may also wish to pop into the food market called Mercado Coyoacán. It’s a great place to stop for a cheap bite to eat and to experience a traditional Mexican market.

If you’re too full for a snack right now, pick up some Mexican candies or a palanqueta (a peanut bar) for later!

As you work your way into the residential part of the city, you’ll encounter plenty of dreamy homes and picturesque buildings to admire.

La Casa Azul (Frida Kahlo Museum)

If you plan to visit the Frida Kahlo Museum, make reservations ahead of time as the line to enter is usually very long (read, hours). 

Note: You’ll have to check your personal belongings at the entrance of the museum if you carry anything larger than a purse. There’s also an extra cost of $30 MXN for permission to take photos inside the museum.

If you’re intrigued by Frida’s life and art, her Casa Azul (Blue House) is a good place to learn more about her story. And, if you’re like me and love creeping on other peoples’ houses, you’re sure to enjoy the experience.

My favorite part of the museum is an exhibit dedicated to Frida’s clothing. It highlights some of her iconic looks and explains how both her Mexican heritage and her physical ailments helped shape her signature style.

Dinner: Hacienda de Cortes

Once you’ve worked up an appetite after an afternoon of exploring, grab dinner at the Hacienda de Cortes before heading home. This hacienda was once home to a series of Mexican artists and actors before being converted into a cultural center and restaurant in 1993.

The colonial architecture and peaceful garden make for a charming backdrop as you enjoy a menu of traditional Mexican specialties.

Day 3 – Centro Histórico

Day three of your Mexico City itinerary is dedicated to learning all about Mexico’s history. Naturally, Mexico City’s Centro Histórico is the ideal place to do that. The downtown area is packed with historic landmarks. 

If you’re only casually interested in the history of Mexico and don’t have the patience for a lot of museums, hopefully, you’ll still appreciate the sightseeing aspect of today’s itinerary.

Today’s activities may take you anywhere from a few hours to an entire day, depending on whether or not you decide to visit any of the museums along the way.

If you’re really into history, you could easily spend all four days of your Mexico City itinerary in this neighborhood. There’s a LOT to see.

If you’d like to minimize the amount of walking you do today, I suggest buying tickets for the TuriBus. This hop-on/hop-off tour bus offers a brief narration of sites between Condesa and the Historic Center and stops at key points of interest.

If you’re interested in visiting many of the museums, you can hop off and do so and then grab the next bus when you’re done. However, if you’re not afraid of logging a few miles, you can accomplish most of this route on foot. Up to you!

I tried out the TuriBus tour on my last visit to Mexico City, and I enjoyed it, but you’ll need to start early to make the most of the experience. Click here to learn more about it!

Breakfast: La Casa de los Azulejos, aka Sanborns

You’ve probably seen images of this stunning blue and white tile building plastered all over Instagram. What you may not realize is that it’s actually a department store called Sanborns.

These stores/restaurants can be found throughout Mexico, and they’re a great place to get a reliable meal, especially for breakfast. This spot in the Centro Historico happens to be the original Sanborns location.

I’m sure many people are so enamored with the exterior that they fail to even realize there are steaming plates of delicious chilaquiles awaiting them inside. Don’t let that be you. After snapping a few photos, head inside to cross a few items off your Mexican food bucket list!

Zócalo (Main Square)

After breakfast, head to the Zócalo, also known as the Plaza de la Constitución, which happens to be the largest central square in all of Latin America.

This area was where the Mexica city of Tenochtitlán once stood… until Cortés arrived, conquered it, and built churches all over the place (including the Metropolitan Cathedral). Obviously, I’m simplifying a little, but you get the point.

The Zocalo is the central gathering point for the entire city and often hosts free events and parades during holidays and festivals, such as Dia de Muertos or Independence Day!

Bordering the Zócalo, you’ll find some major points of interest that are worth a visit, including a number of historical buildings and even an archaeological site! 

Museo de Templo Mayor (Templo Mayor Museum)

Even if you’re aware of the history, seeing the ruins of Templo Mayor on the edge of the Zócalo and noticing how the modern city was built literally right on top of them really helps you realize the drastic impact of colonialism.

If you’re curious to learn about what the Valley of Mexico was like before Spanish colonialism, be sure to visit the Templo Mayor museum.

Inside you will tour the ruins and admire an assortment of prehispanic artifacts while learning about the history of the region.

Palacio Nacional (National Palace)

This enormous building is the seat of Mexico’s federal government. The Palacio Nacional is open to the public, and admission is free.

You will have to leave your ID at the entrance and pick it up again when you exit. If you’re not comfortable leaving your passport, your driver’s license will suffice.

Inside there is a beautiful courtyard garden, a gift shop, and a museum with rotating exhibits related to Mexican history and culture.

However, the main attraction within the palace is undoubtedly Diego Rivera’s famous “History of Mexico” mural.

This work of art occupies the stairwell leading to the second level and continues in segments along the walls of the second-level balcony.

The mural was commissioned by the government following the Mexican Revolution and painted between 1929 and 1935.

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Constructed over 30 years between 1904 and 1934, this impressive, impossible-to-miss building combines Art Nouveau and Neoclassical styles on the exterior and Art Deco details on the interior.

The Palacio de Bellas Artes houses a theatre as well as an art museum and the National Museum of Architecture. It’s well worth going inside the building just to admire the architecture and decor. The theatre features an incredible stained glass curtain designed by Tiffany!

You’ll also find murals by the likes of Rivera, Siquieros, and Orozco, which are also worth a look.

Parque Alameda

Next to the Palacio de Bellas Artes, you’ll find the Parque Alameda, also known as Alameda Central (which translates to “central park”).

On weekends there is an outdoor market here where you can purchase all kinds of souvenirs and snacks from street vendors. On weekdays, it’s a peaceful place for a stroll through the trees.

Paseo de la Reforma

This European-style boulevard stretches from Bellas Artes all the way to the Bosque de Chapultepec. It is lined with statues and monuments to important moments in Mexican history, including the famous Ángel de la Independencia.

You’ll also encounter a series of luxurious hotels and restaurants. During special events and holidays, such as Independence Day or Dia de Muertos this avenue hosts parades!

If you’re up for it, the walk along Reforma is quite pleasant. The sidewalks are wide, and there is plenty to see and do. The walk from Bellas Artes to the Angel is about 3.7 km.

If you’re not keen on the walk, cruise along the route in an Uber or on a TuriBus just so you can check out some of the monuments along the way.

Dinner – La Casa de Toño in Roma Norte

Nothing will help you recuperate from a long day of walking and browsing museums quite like a bowl of Pozole. Cross this hominy-based soup off your foodie wish list at La Casa de Toño in the Zona Rosa neighborhood.

La Casa de Toño is a popular spot among locals. Literally, everyone I spoke to in Mexico City recommended it, from taxi and Uber drivers to local friends and random people I chatted with along the way. It’s quick, it’s budget-friendly, and the pozole is fantastic. They even have a vegetarian-friendly version.

The menu offers plenty of other classic Mexican specialties, including flautas, enchiladas, and more, but everyone recommends the pozole above all.

Evening: Catch a performance of the Ballet Folklórico at Bellas Artes

If you’re not completely worn out from a busy day in Centro, perhaps you’d like to see a performance of the Ballet Folklórico.

The Ballet Folklórico highlights the traditional styles of music, dance, and costumes from different regions of Mexico. Plus, you get to enjoy it from a seat in the stunning theatre within the Palacio de Bellas Artes!

I haven’t had a chance to see this performance yet (unless YouTube clips count) but it’s on my list.

The show gets wonderful reviews on Trip Advisor, and the videos I’ve seen on YouTube just leave me wanting more. If you have the energy be sure to check it out!

Evening Alternative: See a lucha libre match 

If the Ballet Folklorico isn’t your style, a lucha libre makes a lively alternative!

Mexico’s free-style professional wrestling is known for its colorful masks, dynamic characters, and exciting fighting maneuvers. While not all luchadors wear masks, you can certainly count on fun costumes and tons of fanfare. 

Lucha Libre is honestly so much fun to watch. The luchadors are ultimately performance artists, and they do a great job of playing to the crowd and building up the drama. The crowds are usually super vocal and engaged, too. It’s quite an experience. 

The Lucha experience is even better when you have a group to share it with, so consider joining a tour. 

This one includes taco and mezcal tasting before you head to the lucha libre match! It also has over 200 five-star reviews, where past guests rave about the fun, knowledgeable guides! Book your lucha libre tour now! 

Day 4 – Teotihuácan

On the last day of your Mexico City itinerary, I recommend taking a day trip to visit the Teotihuacán ruins to learn about Aztec history and scale the Pyramid of the Sun.

Honestly, I think this site is a must-see even if you’re not interested in the historical significance of this ancient empire; the structures are incredible!

It’s super easy to get to Teotihuacán using public transportation, but many visitors opt for a tour with transportation and a tour guide included. You can hire a guide on-site as well. It’s worth hiring a guide as there are very few interpretive signs to help you understand what you are looking at.

On my last visit to Teotihuacan, I went with a tour group, and I really enjoyed it. I learned so much more about the history of the site than I could have otherwise. Plus, it was nice not to worry about coordinating transportation.

Our guide was knowledgeable about the site and bilingual, which was convenient since my archaeology vocabulary in Spanish was seriously lacking.

After touring the ruins, we stopped for lunch (and souvenir shopping) at a nearby restaurant (the food was great!) before heading back to the city. If you’re curious about a tour, this is the one I took and can recommend.

You can visit Teotihuacán in half a day, especially if you go as part of a tour. However, I always seem to be totally wiped out after visiting. It tends to be very hot, and there is very little shade at the site.

Combine that with scampering up and down towering pyramids, and you’re bound to be exhausted at the end of the trip. I’d allow a full day to visit and recover from visiting Teotihuacán.

See Teotihuacan another way: Many travelers love to take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the ruins to admire the scenery from above. This is definitely a unique way to experience the ruins and surely an experience you won’t forget! Click here to book it. 

Dinner – El Hidalguense in Roma Sur

You can’t scrimp on food for your final day in Mexico City! Go all out! (Not necessarily money-wise, but definitely flavor-wise).

Make the journey over to Roma Sur and hit up El Hidalguense. This family-run establishment is considered one of the best restaurants in Mexico City. It’s known for serving exceptional barbacoa tacos.

The restaurant was recently featured in the Netflix series Taco Chronicles (go watch it now), but it’s been a popular spot among locals for a while.

Because there can be too much of a good thing, El Hidalguense is only open Friday through Sunday. You may encounter lines, but it will be worth the wait. And don’t forget to bring cash because they don’t accept credit cards.

Transportation in Mexico City

Mexico City has a plethora of transportation options for you to choose from. Lauren of Northern Lauren has a fantastic post that breaks down each of them. She includes info on where each transportation method operates, when you might use each of them, and how much they each cost.

I find that Uber is the easiest and the best way to get around within the city. I like that you can track exactly where you’re going and who your driver is. It’s also nice that you don’t need to have cash on hand. This is especially helpful if your Spanish-speaking ability is limited. You won’t have to worry about being short-changed.

Taxis in Mexico City are a great way to get around, too, especially from the airport. However, you shouldn’t flag them off the street. 

Get a Whatsapp number for the taxi company that serves the neighborhood where you’re staying so you can order taxis through text (this system is often referred to as a radio taxi). The dispatcher will provide the unit number of the taxi that is sent to pick you up, so you don’t have to worry about getting in an unauthorized vehicle.

If you’re looking to save money, the metro and the bus systems in CDMX are convenient, at less than 10 pesos per ride. Just be sure to mind your belongings, as the metro is a notorious hotspot for pickpockets.

Where to Stay in Mexico City

In my opinion, the best areas to stay in Mexico City are either Roma or Condesa. Not only are these neighborhoods centrally located, but they are also walkable, safe, and home to plenty of eateries, nightlife, and green spaces.

If you’re curious to know your other options, check out this great guide to Mexico City’s neighborhoods. It will surely help you figure out the lay of the land.

You will find tons of adorable, affordable Airbnb options in Condesa.

Not a fan of Airbnb? No worries! You can search Booking.com, Hostelworld, or VRBO to find accommodation that fits your specifications and budget.

Here are a few great places to stay in Mexico City for every budget.

Budget: Casa Pepe

Any time anyone in my Female Travelers in Mexico Facebook group asks for a CMDX hostel recommendation, a chorus of voices shouts Casa Pepe!

This boutique hostel is located in downtown Mexico City. It offers a mix of dorms and private rooms and is loved for its lively atmosphere. The hostel hosts tons of events, including live music nights, tequila tastings, and more. They also do a great job of coordinating group activities and outings, including walking tours and day trips.

If you’re a solo traveler hoping to make friends, Casa Pepe is a safe bet.

Click here to reserve your room!

Mid-Range: NaNa Vida CMDX

Located in Roma Norte, this hotel offers well-appointed rooms with amenities like air conditioning, flatscreen televisions, and safety deposit boxes (not a common feature in Mexico!).

Guests rave about the helpful team and the excellent location of this property. It’s within walking distance of several attractions and tons of cool restaurants and shopping options!

The property also offers a 24-hour front desk and a business center. There’s also a communal rooftop patio for guests to enjoy.

Click here to book NaNa Vida!

Splurge: Orchid House Polanco

This boutique hotel is housed in a converted colonial mansion and features beautiful rooms and a garden-style setting.

Located in Polanco, this hotel is within walking distance of Chapultepec Park, the National Anthropology Museum, and tons of restaurants and shops.

Enjoy your complimentary breakfast on the hotel’s beautiful, plant-adorned patios before venturing out for the day!

Click here to reserve Orchid House Polanco!

Mexico City Travel FAQs

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🌡️ Do I need travel insurance?

Yes! Healthcare in Mexico is affordable for minor ailments, but travel insurance will give you peace of mind if an emergency arises. Plus, you can add coverage for trip interruption, theft, etc. Get a quote from SafetyWing. 

🏨 What’s the best way to find accommodation in Mexico?

Expedia.com is awesome specifically for for booking hotels, resorts, and is by far the best for booking flights. Booking.com is awesome for affordable hotels in Mexico. VRBO specializes in apartment and house rentals, making it a great place to find long-term stays.

💸 How should I exchange money in Mexico?

Use local ATMS to withdraw cash. US travelers should open a Charles Schwab bank account because they’ll refund ATM fees at the end of the month.

📱 Where can I buy a local SIM card in Mexico?

Pick up a Telcel SIM card at any convenience store. Or, buy an Airalo eSIM online so you’re connected as soon as you land. 

🗣️ Do I need to speak Spanish in Mexico?

No, but it definitely helps you feel more confident and connected. Most urban areas in Mexico will have waiters, restaurant hosts and hostesses along with many other travelers that are bilingual. There is no better way to learn Spanish than to immerse yourself in the Finest Spanish Speaking Country in Latin America

✈️ What’s the best way to find affordable flights?

In my experience travelling to Mexico and within Mexico, I LOVE Expedia.com because they simplify rate comparisons from different airlines. I’ve always come back to Expedia.com because of how wide the selection is of airlines to choose from that go to Mexico. Great pricing is another reason too!

🚖 How do I find a safe airport transfer?

I recommend GetTransfer for airport transfers anywhere in Mexico. 

🚗 What’s the best way to find rental cars in Mexico?

I recommend Discover Cars because they aggregate prices across rental car companies, making it easy to find competitive rates. 

🚐 How do I book bus tickets online in Mexico?

Book your tickets with Busbud — the site is in English and takes foreign credit cards.

🤿 How do I find cool activities and tours in Mexico?

I recommend Viator and TripAdvisor. Viator usually has more options, but it’s worth comparing offerings across both platforms. 

🇲🇽 How can I experience Mexico like a local?

Solo female travelers can hire a local female guide through Greether. Greether will tailor tours based on your interests— it’s basically like experiencing a destination with a local bestie!

🧳 What’s the best luggage for Mexico?

Unless you’re staying at a resort, a travel pack is recommended. I’ve used this one from Osprey for the last 8+ years. 

👯‍♀️ How do I connect with fellow travelers in Mexico?

Join my Female Travelers in Mexico Facebook group, a supportive community of fellow Mexico travel enthusiasts, where you can find answers to all your travel questions!