Metropolitan cathedral on mexico city's zocalo to start off your mexico city travel guide
Mexico city travel guide

10 of the Best Tips for Your Mexico City Travel Guide [2025]

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, our comprehensive mexico city travel guide will help you navigate this incredible destination with ease. This travel guide for Mexico City is essential for making the most of your trip.

Here is a glimpse as to how Janine in the World provides its readers with significant expertise for any Mexico Travel Itinerary.

The idea of visiting one of the largest cities in the world might be daunting to think about, but Mexico City is a rich and welcoming place for solo female travelers. 

There are endless incredible activities to enjoy, from learning about Aztec history or taking in art museums to eating your way through the local taco restaurants, shopping in the lively markets, or floating along the canals of Xochimilco. 

This Mexico City travel guide will give you everything you need to plan your trip to the vibrant and bustling heart of Mexico.

Angel de la independencia on avenida reforma in mexico city. Part of all best travel guides for mexico city

This travel guide for Mexico City will also help you understand the local culture and traditions.

This Mexico city travel guide will highlight the best times to explore its many neighborhoods.

Mexico City Overview

With a population of over 22 million, Mexico City is one of the largest cities in the world and the capital of Mexico. It’s also its own state.

What’s in a name?

Mexico City has many names, and if you’re paying attention, you’ll probably hear them all thrown around. Here’s a quick overview of their evolution. 

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It was originally founded by the Mexica peoples, who called it Tenochtitlán. They referred to the valley surrounding Tenochtitlan as Mēxihco, a Nahuatl word that “Mexico” is derived from.  

Our Mexico City travel guide includes practical advice for navigating the city’s public transport.

Legend says that after the Spanish arrived in 1521, they began referring to Tenochtitlán as “Mexico” because the former was too difficult for them to pronounce. 

Fast forward a few hundred years to Mexico’s independence in 1824. Mexico’s new constitution is signed, deeming Mexico City a city-state under the control of the federal government.

It became known as Mexico City, Federal District. Or, in Spanish, Mexico, Distrito Federal. It is also commonly referred to as ‘DF’ (pronounced ‘day-effay’ in Spanish). 

In 2016, in a push for autonomy, Mexico City shed its federal district status. No longer fully controlled by the federal government, Mexico City was rebranded to Ciudad de Mexico, or CDMX. 

For a complete experience, refer to our Mexico City travel guide for must-visit attractions.

Still with me?

You’ll hear people refer to Mexico City as any and all of the following in Spanish:

  • DF (de-ef-e)
  • México (context clues will indicate whether one is referring to the city or the country!)
  • Mexico DF
  • CDMX 

I’ve noticed that many folks still call Mexico City “DF” in Spanish. It’s definitely easier to pronounce than CDMX. Besides, old habits die hard. This is great info to use, especially as you make your way through this Mexico City Travel Guide!

Facade of the metropolitan cathedral on mexico city's zocalo. With potted trees in the foreground. It is part of our mexico city travel guide.

Explore all that this vibrant area offers using our carefully curated Mexico City travel guide.

Essential Tips for Your Mexico City Travel Guide

Airports:

  • Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX)—this is the primary airport.
  • Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU)—International and Regional Flights

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Time Zone: Mexico City is on Central Standard Time (CST)/UTC/GMT for -6 hours. Mexico City does not observe daylight savings time 

Elevation: 2,240 meters / 7,349 feet

Climate: Mexico City has a Subtropical highland climate characterized by low humidity and mild daily temperatures. 

Currency: Mexican peso. Open a free currency exchange account from WISE to make exchanging money easier. 

Tipping in Mexico City: Tipping is customary, but not in all the same situations as in the US. Plan to leave a tip of 10-20% in restaurants; do not tip taxi drivers. Read my guide to tipping in Mexico for more details.

Language: Spanish is the primary language, but many folks working in the tourism industry speak English (though I would still make an effort to speak Spanish if possible, as a gesture of good faith). Indigenous languages are spoken as well, including Nahuatl.

Locals are known as Chilangos.

Electricity: Mexico City uses standard Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) outlets. The standard voltage is 127V. Don’t count on having a three-pronged outlet anywhere you stay. Pack an adapter, just in case. 

A woman in a red dress stands against a purple wall and garage door in mexico city, framed by the trunk of a jacaranda tree

When is the Best Time to Visit Mexico City?

It’s always a good time to visit CDMX! 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. 

October through April is the dry season, which is appealing to many travelers. The winter months can be quite cool, with daily temperatures ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 22°C (72°F). December and January are the coldest months.

April and May are the warmest months in Mexico’s capital, with daily highs averaging 26°C (80°F). But lows during these months are around 10°C (50°F), so don’t forget to pack layers!

The rainy season lasts from May through September. And while the prospect of heavy rain might sound like a deterrent, showers are often isolated to the afternoons. The rain can definitely be inconvenient, but it’s not a dealbreaker for visiting the city. 

Las Grutas de Tolantongo is one of the best places to visit during this time of the year, even just as a day trip from Mexico City. There is nothing like it that I’ve ever seen before, and it’s only a few hours away from Mexico City. Leave in the morning and you’ll be back in time for dinner, having spent less than $65 USD total for a car and food there and back. See the picture I took below.

Check our Mexico City travel guide for safe neighCheck our Mexico City travel guide for safe neighborhoods and areas to avoid.

Las grutas de tolantongo should be on your travel guide for mexico city
Mexico city travel guide


Mexico City Location

Mexico City is located in the Valley of Mexico, on Mexico’s high central plateau. It’s situated toward the center of mainland Mexico, making it a convenient hub for visiting other areas of southern and central Mexico. 

Using this Mexico City travel guide, you can plan your itinerary around iconic landmarks.

Consult our travel guide for Mexico City for expert tips on dining and nightlife options.

Mexico City Transportation: Getting There & Around

Those arriving by air will most likely fly into the Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX) in Mexico City. It’s the largest airport in Mexico and an important travel hub for all of Latin America. 

Solo travel tip: Plan to arrive during the day—or at least not late at night. This will make it easier and less stressful to find your way to your hotel or Airbnb safely.

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A pink and white taxi drives through an intersection with colorful crosswalks in the condesa neighborhood of mexico city
Taxis are plentiful and a good price. Uber is also an option to get around the city.

Mexico City Airport Transportation

There is no shortage of transportation options from the Mexico City airport. The most popular methods are taxi and Uber. 

Buy a ticket from the Taxi Seguro kiosk inside the airport terminal, and you’ll be matched with a taxi driver. You will need cash to pay for your ticket.

Uber is a little trickier. They may not be able to pick you up right at the arrivals terminal, so your driver may request that you go upstairs to the Departures area and meet at a particular gate.

If all of this sounds too complicated, book an airport transfer in advance and save yourself the headache! 

Local public transportation

There are several local transportation options in Mexico City, including:

  • Bus
  • Metrobus
  • Metro
  • Uber
  • Taxi
  • Didi (another rideshare service)

Uber is typically the best way to move around since payments are handled through the app, and you don’t need to speak much Spanish along the way. 

Mexico City’s metro is fast and inexpensive, but I don’t recommend it for solo female travelers because it can be uncomfortably crowded, and petty theft is a concern.

There is a metro line from the airport, too, but I don’t recommend it for solo female travelers. I’ve had bad experiences on the metro, and I wouldn’t feel safe with all my luggage. It’s worse to be pickpocketed when you have all your essentials than just your cash for the day. That said, it’s a personal choice! You can make the call on what’s right for you! 

A man walks through a courtyard full of large plants and cactuses in mexico city. The courtyard is framed by colonial buildings

Where to Stay: Best Mexico City Neighborhoods

Polanco

Polanco, sometimes referred to as the “Beverly Hills” of Mexico City, is an excellent choice for solo travelers looking for a safe and upscale experience. 

Situated on the north side of the iconic Chapultepec Park (Bosque de Chapultepec), this affluent neighborhood is a picturesque blend of stunning architecture and luxury shopping, offering a glimpse into the city’s sophisticated side. 

Polanco’s walkable streets and proximity to some of Mexico City’s top attractions, including the vast Chapultepec Park and the renowned National Anthropology Museum, make it a wonderful base for your Mexico City trip. 

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La Condesa & Roma

Condesa and Roma, two neighboring districts in Mexico City, are perfect for solo travelers seeking a trendy, bohemian vibe. These areas are not only home to many Mexican television stars and musicians, but they’ve also gained popularity among foreign travelers and digital nomads, adding to their international appeal. 

These neighborhoods are home to an array of chic shops and exquisite restaurants featuring everything from French cuisine to vegan specialties and authentic Mexican. And there are plenty of taco spots, too! 

Their tree-lined streets and charming parks, like Parque Mexico and Parque España, are wonderful for wandering and people-watching. Additionally, their central location within the city makes Roma and Condesa a fantastic base for exploring Mexico City’s many attractions.

Aerial view of the paseo de la reforma avenue in mexico city, with modern high-rises along the street

Paseo de la Reforma

The Reforma neighborhood in Mexico City is a lively and cosmopolitan place for people traveling alone. Paseo de la Reforma is an iconic boulevard that stretches across the city; the area that runs from Polanco to Centro Historico is the section I’m referring to here. 

This stretch is adorned with popular landmarks, international embassies, and some of Mexico City’s best hotels, making it a hotspot for visitors seeking a blend of culture and luxury. 

Reforma is not only safe and highly walkable, but it also brims with activities and sights, including museums, shopping opportunities, notable landmarks (including the Ángel de la Independencia), and a diverse range of restaurants. 

The neighborhood comes alive at night with a bustling nightlife, ideal for those looking to explore the city’s evening offerings. The Zona Rosa borders Reforma and is an area known for fun nightclubs and gay bars. 

For travelers seeking a sophisticated hotel experience in an area rich with things to see and do, Reforma stands out as a perfect choice.

The templo de mayor ruins in centro historico mexico city with colonial buildings in the background
There’s just a casual archeological site in the middle of Mexico City’s centro histórico!

Centro Historico

Centro Histórico, the historic heart of Mexico City, is an intriguing neighborhood for solo travelers, especially those with a penchant for history and culture. During the day, it’s a treasure trove of historic landmarks and museums, offering endless opportunities for learning. 

Mexico City’s main square, the Plaza de la Constitución, is the center of this neighborhood, with attractions like the National Palace and Templo Mayor located alongside it. 

Accommodation options range from iconic hotels (notably, the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico) to various budget hotels and hostels, making it an ideal spot for finding affordable stays. 

For solo travelers seeking community, the hostels in Centro Historico are perfect for meeting fellow adventurers. 

Make your experience unforgettable by using this travel guide for Mexico City as your reference.

However, it’s worth noting that Centro Historico can feel a bit gritty at night, so be careful if you go out! Despite this, its central location and the fascinating blend of history and urban life make the historic center a compelling place to be! 

A street in coyoacan, mexico city is lined by red cars and trees. Papel picado stretches across the street overhead

Coyoacan

Coyoacan, one of Mexico City’s oldest colonial neighborhoods, offers solo travelers a charming small-town feel amidst the vastness of the city. Renowned as the location of Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul, Coyoacan exudes an old-world charm distinct from other parts of the city. 

Historic buildings and haciendas, transformed into quaint apartments, unique restaurants, and commercial spaces, dotted the neighborhood. The beautiful central park and vibrant local markets are perfect for leisurely soaking in the local culture. 

While it’s a bit removed from some of Mexico City’s main attractions, Coyoacan’s serene atmosphere provides a delightful contrast to the city’s bustling urban areas. 

A woman admires the pyramid of the sun at teotihuacan on a day trip from mexico city

Best Things to Do in Mexico City

Obviously, there are too many things to list. Here’s a very broad overview of some of the main attractions and popular things to do in Mexico City. 

  • Palacio de Bellas Artes—This incredible building is an architectural marvel in the city center. Once you’ve finished admiring its exterior, step inside to explore its art and architecture museums. 
  • National Palace—The Palacio Nacional is renowned for its Diego Rivera murals (and for being the seat of Mexico’s federal government). It’s free to visit and located right on the Zócalo.
  • Templo Mayor—This archaeological site sits right on Mexico City’s Zocalo across from the Metropolitan Cathedral, and you can see parts of the ruins right from the street! It’s a really fascinating site and has an informative museum, too.

Essential Mexico City Travel Guide Tips

  • Frida Kahlo Museum—Frida’s famous Blue House is located in Coyoacan and is a really cool museum dedicated to her life and work. Book tickets in advance. 
  • San Ángel Mercado de Sábado—This weekly street market features everything from souvenirs and art to food products. San Ángel is a cool neighborhood, too, so it’s worth making a day of the market experience! 
  • Chapultepec Castle & Park—Chapultepec Castle is a cool architectural monument and houses an intriguing history museum. It is located within Chapultepec Park, a massive urban park that’s an attraction in its own right. Spend at least half a day browsing the museum and wandering through the park.
  • National Museum of Anthropology—One of the most famous and important museums in Mexico. This is a must-visit spot for anyone interested in Mexico’s ancient civilizations. 
  • Lucha libre—Lucha libre is a fun and lively spectacle, and there’s nothing like seeing it in Mexico City! Even if you’re not into wrestling, it’s an incredible performance art, and I think it’s worth seeing at least once! 
  • Mercado de San Juan—The Mercado de San Juan is famous for its large and diverse selection of products. It’s a wonderful place to try out authentic Mexican food.
  • Xochimilco—Back when it was still Tenochtitlán, the city was built on islands within the lake Texcoco. Residents would move through the city on canals. Nowadays, Xochimilco is all that’s left of these canals. Embark on a boat ride through the channels, savoring delicious snacks and enjoying the melodies of mariachi bands! The canal cruise is a really cool experience that you shouldn’t miss!

Can’t-Miss Mexico City Tours

Taking a guided tour is one of the best ways to make friends as a solo traveler, and it’s a fun way to experience Mexico City. 

Here are some of the top Mexico City tours to add to this Mexico City travel guide. 

Is Mexico City Safe for Solo Travelers?

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

As travelers, we have more privileges than locals in Mexico, especially regarding the areas we visit and how we do so. If you discuss Mexico City safety with Mexicans, you’ll likely get a different perspective than when you discuss it with extranjeros. 

Negative things do happen in the city (and everywhere in the world), but we have the flexibility to mitigate many risks. Sure, maybe there’s a chance that some of us are more of a “target” for petty crime because we stick out, but we also have the privilege of staying in nice neighborhoods, opting for private transportation, etc. 

All the more reason to say, Mexico City is a wonderful destination for solo travelers. But always take standard safety precautions and follow these solo travel safety tips to protect yourself. 

Lastly, please remember to check our travel guide for Mexico City for seasonal events and festivals.

If Mexico City is not at the top of your list of cities to visit, then consider these 15 Popular Mexico Destinations

Read All of My Mexico City Travel Blogs

Here’s everything I’ve ever written about Mexico City! 

👉 Read More Mexico City Blogs!

Mexico City Travel FAQs

Will I get altitude sickness in Mexico City?

Maybe. Mexico City does have a very high altitude, so it’s possible that you’ll experience altitude sickness. I always recommend making your first day in the city a mellow one so your body has time to adjust to the environment. Drinking lots of water will help. 

Can I drink the water in Mexico City?

Nope! Tap water in Mexico City is not safe to drink unless your hotel or Airbnb specifies that they have a purification filter in place (this isn’t super common). Plan to drink bottled water during your visit. 

Can you get around in Mexico City without a car?

Mexico city travel guide for taxis

Yes! You do not need a car in Mexico City, and I wouldn’t recommend one anyway. Traffic is terrible, and it’s hard/expensive to park anywhere. Instead, use ride-share services like Uber or Didi or learn to navigate the local buses and metro. Don’t forget to buy an eSIM so you can use data to navigate! 

How many days should I spend in Mexico City?

Mexico city travel guide

You could spend a lifetime in Mexico City and never see it all. To see the highlights, I’d spend a minimum of four to seven days in the city. 

Should I get travel insurance for Mexico City?

Yes! I urge you always to buy travel insurance when you travel. Mexico has inexpensive healthcare for small ailments, but if anything major happens, you’ll be glad to be covered. I recommend EKTA, especially for long-term travelers. 

With our mexico city travel guide, you will have a comprehensive list of activities and tours.

This mexico city travel guide also includes tips for navigating cultural nuances.