Mexico City captured my heart from the moment I arrived! This vibrant metropolis overflows with incredible culinary experiences, a rich tapestry of culture, and fascinating history. There’s an undeniable energy here, a constant buzz of activity that makes it one of the most exciting cities on the planet.
Home to over 21 million people, Mexico City is a sprawling giant, one of the world’s largest urban centers. As the capital of Mexico, it pulses with political and economic power. Its history stretches back to the Aztec Empire, and today, it’s a captivating blend of traditions from across Mexico and beyond.
The city’s welcoming spirit and laid-back cafe culture are instantly appealing. But it’s the phenomenal food scene and electrifying nightlife that truly make Mexico City irresistible. Words can barely express how much I adore CDMX – I’m confident you will too!
With the rise of remote work, many are considering relocating to Mexico City. But before taking the plunge, a visit is essential! And what better way to experience the city’s allure than by diving into a three-day exploration of its highlights?
Mexico City is a mosaic of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. You could spend years uncovering all its hidden corners. However, three days offers the perfect introduction, allowing you to savor the city’s essence without feeling overwhelmed by its vastness. A week might feel too long for a first-time visitor just looking to get a feel for the city, while anything less than three days would feel rushed.
This guide is designed to give you a taste of the incredible experiences Mexico City offers. Think of it as a springboard for your own adventures and discoveries. Get ready to be amazed!
Day One: Exploring Roma Norte, Condesa, and Chapultepec Park
On your first day, immerse yourself gently into the city’s rhythm. New cities can feel overwhelming at first, so we’ll ease in by exploring some of my favorite, welcoming neighborhoods. Mexico City is brimming with charming districts, each filled with inviting cafes, intriguing museums, and relaxing parks – perfect for wandering and soaking in the atmosphere.
Today, we begin in Roma Norte, a personal favorite and a must-visit for any first-timer.
Roma Norte is renowned for its bohemian spirit, reflected in its independent boutiques, cozy cafes, and diverse restaurants. It’s the ideal place to start your Mexico City journey with a relaxed morning of exploration and people-watching. Begin your day with a leisurely stroll down Avenida Alvaro Obregon, a central artery of Roma Norte.
After a delightful breakfast at one of the many stylish cafes, head to the Museo de Arte Moderno. While not massive, this museum boasts an impressive collection of both Mexican and international modern art. Here, you’ll find masterpieces by iconic figures like Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Rufino Tamayo, among others. Depending on your pace and interest in art history, exploring the museum can take around two hours. You can wander through the exhibits independently or join one of the guided tours offered in English for a deeper understanding.
After your museum visit, continue exploring Roma Norte’s charming streets and pop into some of the unique shops. Casa Bonampak is a personal favorite, specializing in exquisite traditional Mexican crafts and textiles. You’ll discover beautifully hand-embroidered blouses, delicate handmade paper goods, and vibrant, colorful ceramics – perfect souvenirs or gifts.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, take a pleasant walk over to the Condesa neighborhood for lunch. Condesa seamlessly blends into Roma Norte, making for an easy and enjoyable transition on foot. Condesa is famous for its trendy restaurants and chic cafes. For an unforgettable seafood experience, try to get a table at Contramar, consistently ranked among Mexico City’s most popular and celebrated restaurants.
If you prefer a more casual and budget-friendly option, grab authentic street tacos from one of the numerous taco stands scattered throughout Condesa. You truly can’t go wrong with any choice here, but my absolute favorite are the tacos al pastor – marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit. Just thinking about them makes my mouth water! They are simply irresistible.
Condesa exudes a different vibe compared to Roma Norte, often described as more “hip” and youthful. You’ll see many locals jogging or cycling through the tree-lined streets, alongside an array of stylish boutiques, inviting parks, and more cafes to discover.
After lunch, stroll into Chapultepec Park, an expansive green oasis and the largest park in the city. Remarkably, it’s twice the size of New York’s Central Park, making it easy to lose yourself in its vastness and tranquility. Chapultepec Park is the perfect escape for relaxation, a leisurely walk, or even a refreshing run.
If you have the energy and inclination – and I wholeheartedly recommend it – walk to the summit of Chapultepec Hill. Here you’ll find Castillo de Chapultepec, a majestic castle that once served as the residence of Mexican Emperor Maximiliano I. This iconic castle draws many visitors, so expect it to be lively. The panoramic views from the hilltop are breathtaking and absolutely reward the uphill walk! The castle now functions as a museum, offering a deeper dive into Mexican history and imperial life.
After immersing yourself in the country’s history and glimpsing the opulent lifestyle of the 19th-century elite, descend the hill and exit the park onto Paseo de la Reforma, one of Mexico City’s grandest avenues. This impressive street is lined with upscale shops, luxurious hotels, and refined restaurants. At the end of Paseo de la Reforma, you’ll encounter the Angel of Independence, one of Mexico City’s most recognizable and celebrated landmarks. This golden monument symbolizes Mexico’s hard-won independence from Spain and stands as a powerful reminder of the country’s rich and often turbulent past.
Conclude your first day with dinner and drinks in Polanco, another of CDMX’s most fashionable and upscale neighborhoods. Polanco is synonymous with sophisticated dining and chic bars, and it’s home to Presidente Masaryk Avenue, considered the most exclusive and expensive street in Mexico.
This is the perfect neighborhood if you’re seeking a sophisticated night out. Mexico City boasts an incredible, somewhat secretive, underground bar scene (a word of caution: mezcal shots are meant for sipping, not shooting!). Some of the city’s best and most stylish bars are tucked away in Polanco.
For a truly memorable dinner, I highly recommend Biko, widely regarded as one of the finest restaurants in Mexico City. Reservations are essential as it’s a popular spot and fills up quickly.
Day Two: Immerse Yourself in Frida Kahlo and Explore Historic Neighborhoods
Day two features one of my absolute favorite things To Do In Mexico City! I’m completely captivated by Frida Kahlo – she’s a truly iconic Mexican artist whose legacy resonates globally. Renowned for her powerful self-portraits, Frida Kahlo’s art provides an intimate glimpse into her life, her passions, and the struggles she bravely faced.
Begin your day with a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum, affectionately known as La Casa Azul (The Blue House). The museum is located in the charming Coyoacan neighborhood, housed within Kahlo’s former family home. This intimate house has been transformed into a museum dedicated to her life and artistic journey. It’s a relatively small museum, but incredibly impactful and emotionally resonant. You’ll see many of her most famous paintings alongside personal belongings, offering a unique window into her world. The museum’s garden is also a tranquil and beautiful space, well worth exploring.
To ensure you don’t miss out, purchase your tickets online and in advance, especially during peak season.
After the museum, take your time to wander through the Coyoacan neighborhood itself, one of Mexico City’s oldest and most historically significant districts. This neighborhood has a distinctly different ambiance from Roma Norte and Condesa. It feels more traditional, showcasing beautiful colonial-style architecture and charming cobblestone streets. Coyoacan is also home to a wealth of wonderful shops, inviting cafes, and traditional restaurants. While you’re here, be sure to indulge in a classic Mexican dessert, like churros con chocolate – fried dough pastries with rich hot chocolate – a true local treat!
In the afternoon, make your way to the Centro Historico, Mexico City’s historic heart and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is one of the largest and most remarkably preserved historic centers in all of the Americas. The area is a visual feast of colonial-era buildings, grand plazas, and impressive churches. It’s also home to some of my favorite museums in Mexico City, including the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts).
If you only have time for a single museum visit today, I wholeheartedly recommend the Museo Nacional de Antropologia (National Museum of Anthropology). It’s the most popular museum in CDMX, and deservedly so. This sprawling museum houses an unparalleled collection of ancient Mexican artifacts, spanning millennia of history. For me, a major highlight is the excavated Aztec Templo Mayor ruins located right within the museum complex, a truly awe-inspiring sight. You can also marvel at the famous “Sun Stone” on display here, one of the most iconic and significant Aztec artifacts in existence.
If the Museo Nacional de Antropologia isn’t quite your preference, head to the Palacio de Bellas Artes, widely considered the most architecturally stunning building in Mexico City. This magnificent Art Deco masterpiece houses a theater, a prestigious opera house, and several important art galleries. Inside, you can also see a powerful mural by Diego Rivera, depicting the sweeping history of Mexico from the Aztec civilization to the 20th century.
Both of these world-class museums are centrally located within the Centro Historico, making it feasible to visit both in one day if you’re ambitious.
If you have some time to spare before dinner, take a walk through Zocalo, Mexico City’s vast main square. This is the largest square in Latin America and is ringed by some of the city’s most important and imposing buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. The Zocalo is also a fantastic place to simply people-watch and absorb the vibrant atmosphere of Mexico City as it unfolds around you.
End your second day with a traditional Mexican dinner. While Mexico City is home to countless world-class, fine-dining restaurants, sometimes nothing beats the authentic and satisfying flavors of a classic street taco. Seek out one of the many taquerias (taco shops) throughout the city for some incredibly cheap and utterly delicious tacos. I personally recommend the nearby Taqueria Los Cocuyos — a local institution that the late Anthony Bourdain famously raved about on his show, No Reservations.
Day Three: Teotihuacan Pyramids and Local Markets
Prepare for an early start on your final day in Mexico City! It’s time to go out with a truly unforgettable experience: a hot air balloon ride over the ancient city of Teotihuacan! This is a genuine bucket-list adventure that you’ll cherish forever.
Teotihuacan is an ancient Mesoamerican city, predating the Aztecs, and once ranked among the largest cities in the entire world. The site is dominated by some of the most magnificent and imposing pyramids in Mexico, including the colossal Pyramid of the Sun and the elegant Pyramid of the Moon. It’s an absolutely breathtaking archaeological site and undeniably worth a visit.
Your hot air balloon ride is timed to coincide with sunrise, so yes, it’s an early wake-up call! The balloon flight itself lasts for about an hour and is truly magical. You’ll be treated to unparalleled, panoramic views of the pyramids bathed in the golden morning light and the stunning surrounding landscape. It’s an experience that will stay etched in your memory. Teotihuacan is located roughly an hour outside of Mexico City, but thankfully, most hot air balloon tours include convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, making the logistics seamless.
Check out availability for hot air ballooning below:
After your awe-inspiring hot air balloon adventure, you’ll have some time to explore the Teotihuacan archaeological site on the ground. I highly recommend climbing to the summit of the Pyramid of the Sun – it’s a challenging climb, but the views from the top are simply breathtaking and offer a true sense of the scale of this ancient city. You can also visit the nearby Museum of Teotihuacan, which houses fascinating exhibits detailing the history, culture, and mysteries of this enigmatic civilization.
Once you’re back in Mexico City, head to the Mercado De Artesanias La Ciudadela (La Ciudadela Market). This sprawling handicraft market is a treasure trove of Mexican artistry, offering everything from vibrant traditional textiles and clothing to intricately hand-carved wooden animals and unique souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to find special gifts for friends and family back home, or a memento of your trip. I’m particularly fond of the traditional Mexican woven bags – they make fantastic and stylish beach bags if you’re planning a trip to Cancun or Puerto Vallarta next!
I know we’ve packed a lot into these three days, but if you have a little extra time, my final recommendation is to take a quick 5-minute walk to visit the Museo Mural Diego Rivera.
This small but captivating museum is dedicated to the renowned Mexican muralist Diego Rivera. The museum is located in the very building where Rivera’s studio was once situated and houses a collection of his original paintings, sketches, and studies. It’s a wonderful place to delve deeper into Rivera’s life and artistic contributions. It also houses his most iconic mural, Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Park), which is an absolute must-see masterpiece.
After exploring the Museo Mural Diego Rivera, wrap up your incredible three days in Mexico City with more delicious Mexican food and celebrate the end of your trip with some refreshing, freshly made margaritas!
I sincerely hope you’ve enjoyed your whirlwind three days in Mexico City! There truly is an endless amount to see and experience in this captivating city, and I hope this guide has given you just a taste of its magic.
Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Mexico City
Water Safety: Under no circumstances should you drink tap water in Mexico City. The city is known for its water pollution, so it’s essential to drink only bottled water. Thankfully, bottled water is readily available and very inexpensive, sold practically everywhere.
City Size and Transportation: Keep in mind just how vast Mexico City is. While this 3-day guide focuses on geographically close areas, it’s crucial to plan your daily activities in advance and allow ample travel time between locations. The last thing you want is to miss out on something because you got lost or underestimated travel time!
Where to Stay in Mexico City: Recommended Neighborhoods
Mexico City is huge. It’s actually the largest city in North America, so choosing the right area to stay in can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, after spending considerable time in the city, I can confidently narrow down the best locations for you!
For first-time visitors, I highly recommend staying in Condesa, Roma Norte, or Coyoacan. These are all fantastic neighborhoods offering a great mix of excellent restaurants, lively bars, and a safe and welcoming atmosphere. They’re also relatively centrally located, making it easy to explore different parts of the city. In recent years, these neighborhoods have undergone significant revitalization and are now considered some of the most desirable and enjoyable places to stay in Mexico City.
My personal favorite boutique hotel in Mexico City is Mansión Papilio. This charming bed and breakfast is nestled in Coyoacan, making it an ideal base for this three-day itinerary. It’s also absolutely gorgeous. Stepping into this mansion feels like stepping back into the glamour of the 1920s. Each room is uniquely and beautifully decorated, and surprisingly spacious – a real plus in a bustling city like Mexico City.
The garden is my favorite spot to relax and enjoy a morning coffee. You can even watch peacocks stroll around the property, adding a touch of whimsy to your day. The staff at Mansión Papilio are exceptional and genuinely dedicated to ensuring you have the best possible trip. I can’t recommend this boutique hotel enough, and in the summer months, they have a lovely pool to escape the Mexican heat.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Mexico City
The most pleasant times to visit Mexico City are during the spring or fall, when the weather is typically milder and more comfortable for exploring. Summers can be intensely hot and humid, which can make sightseeing less enjoyable, and winters can be surprisingly cold and sometimes wet. However, if you don’t mind warmer temperatures, the city retains its beauty during the summer, and there are still plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy.
Another factor to consider when planning your visit is whether any festivals or special events are taking place that might interest you. Mexico City is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and numerous fiestas, meaning there’s almost always something exciting happening!
My absolute favorite time to be in Mexico City is during Dia De los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, which is celebrated from October 31st to November 2nd. Day of the Dead is a deeply meaningful traditional Mexican holiday that honors deceased loved ones, and experiencing it in Mexico City is truly incredible. The entire city transforms with colorful decorations, elaborate altars, processions, and lively celebrations day and night. If you have the opportunity to visit Mexico City during this time, I wholeheartedly recommend it!
Getting Around Mexico City: Transportation Options
When it comes to navigating Mexico City, you have several convenient options.
The metro system is a fantastic choice – incredibly affordable and efficient for getting around the city. A single ride costs a mere 5 pesos, which is only about 25 U.S. cents! While the metro can get very crowded during peak rush hour, it remains the quickest and most budget-friendly way to travel to many parts of the city.
Another popular option for exploring Mexico City is using ride-sharing services like Uber. Uber has become increasingly common in the city and is a convenient way to get around, especially if you prefer not to use the metro. It’s also remarkably affordable compared to ride-sharing in many other major cities.
The final option – and my personal favorite whenever possible – is to walk! Mexico City is surprisingly walkable in many key areas, and you’ll gain a much richer sense of the city’s character and atmosphere by exploring on foot and truly taking everything in. Plus, you never know what hidden gems and unexpected discoveries you might stumble upon while wandering the streets!
Staying Safe in Mexico City: Practical Tips
Mexico City is a sprawling metropolis, and like any major city, certain areas can be less safe than others. As with any travel destination, I always recommend exercising common sense and practicing basic safety precautions. This means avoiding flashing expensive jewelry or electronics, and being cautious when walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas at night.
However, I want to emphasize that I, personally, have always felt safe in Mexico City. In fact, I’ve found the local people to be incredibly welcoming, friendly, and helpful, and I’ve never encountered any negative experiences.
As in any large metropolitan city, be aware of the possibility of pickpockets, especially in crowded places like the metro and busy markets. Keep your valuables secure and consider carrying a photocopy of your passport separately from your actual passport, just in case of loss or theft.
One important thing to be aware of is that Mexico City is located in a seismically active zone. It’s wise to be mindful of this and familiarize yourself with basic earthquake safety procedures. Unlike me, who grew up in an area with no earthquakes, and during my first earthquake while traveling, I was so unprepared that I actually had to Google “what to do in an earthquake” while my hotel room was shaking!
Beyond these general safety tips, I truly believe that Mexico City is a very safe and rewarding place to visit, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to friends and fellow travelers!
Mexico City is rapidly becoming one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations, and it’s easy to understand why. This dynamic city offers something for everyone, from world-class cuisine and captivating culture to stunning architecture and rich history. If you’re seeking an unforgettable vacation experience, Mexico City is absolutely the place to be.
Come discover its wonders before even more people realize how incredible it truly is!
