Mexico City, CDMX as it’s known to locals, is a city that captivates the soul. I’ve traveled the globe, and this sprawling metropolis holds a special place in my heart. From the explosion of flavors in its world-renowned cuisine to the deep roots of its culture and history etched into every street, Mexico City is an experience unlike any other.
Home to over 21 million people, Mexico City pulsates with life. It’s not just the capital of Mexico; it’s the country’s vibrant heart, a powerhouse of political and economic energy. Its history stretches back to the Aztec Empire, and today, it’s a fascinating blend of traditions and modern influences from across Mexico and the world.
The city’s magnetic pull is undeniable. The relaxed pace of life, the charming cafe culture, and above all, the incredible food and electrifying nightlife will draw you in and keep you wanting more. Trust me, you’re going to fall head over heels for CDMX just like I did.
With remote work becoming increasingly common, many are considering making Mexico City their new home. And while the idea is tempting, I always advise a visit first. What better way to test the waters than immersing yourself in the city for three glorious days, exploring everything it has to offer?
Mexico City is a patchwork of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique personality. You could spend years uncovering all its secrets. However, three days is the sweet spot – enough time to get a real taste of this incredible city without feeling overwhelmed by its sheer size. A week might feel too long if you’re just dipping your toes in, and anything less than three days would simply be too rushed.
This guide isn’t just an itinerary; it’s your launchpad for deeper exploration. Consider it your curated introduction to the Best Things To Do In Mexico City. Get ready to be inspired!
Day One: Immerse Yourself in Roma Norte, Condesa, Chapultepec Park & Polanco
Your first day in a new city should be about gentle exploration, soaking in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. Mexico City, with its abundance of charming neighborhoods overflowing with cafes, museums, and green spaces, is perfect for this kind of leisurely discovery. It’s easy to lose yourself in the enchanting streets all day long!
Today, we begin in Roma Norte, one of my absolute favorite neighborhoods.
Roma Norte exudes a bohemian charm, brimming with independent boutiques, cozy cafes, and innovative restaurants. It’s the ideal place to spend a relaxed morning, wandering the streets and indulging in some people-watching. Start your day with a leisurely stroll down Avenida Alvaro Obregon, a main artery of Roma Norte, buzzing with local life.
After a delightful breakfast at one of Roma Norte’s many cafes, head over to the Museo de Arte Moderno. While not massive, this museum boasts a remarkable collection of both Mexican and international modern art. You’ll encounter masterpieces by iconic artists like Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Rufino Tamayo, among others. Depending on your pace and interest, exploring the museum can take around two hours. You can wander at your own speed or join one of the guided tours offered in English for a deeper understanding of the artworks.
Afterward, take your time to explore the neighborhood’s unique shops. A must-visit for me is Casa Bonampak, a treasure trove of traditional Mexican crafts and textiles. Here, you’ll find 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 to the neighboring Condesa for lunch. Condesa seamlessly blends into Roma Norte, making it an easy and enjoyable stroll. Condesa is renowned for its trendy and upscale dining scene. For a truly memorable meal, try Contramar, one of Mexico City’s most celebrated restaurants, known for its incredibly fresh and delicious seafood.
If you prefer a more casual and budget-friendly option, grab some authentic street tacos from one of Condesa’s numerous stands. You really can’t go wrong with any choice here, but my personal obsession is with tacos al pastor. Just thinking about them makes my mouth water! Absolutely divine!
Condesa offers a different vibe compared to Roma Norte, often described as more “hip” and youthful. You’ll see locals jogging or cycling through its leafy streets, alongside a plethora of charming boutiques, parks, and cafes beckoning to be explored.
After lunch, make your way to Chapultepec Park, the sprawling green lung of the city. It’s actually twice the size of New York’s Central Park, making it easy to get wonderfully lost within its expansive grounds! Chapultepec Park is the perfect oasis to unwind, take a leisurely walk, or even go for a refreshing run amidst the urban landscape.
If you have the energy and I wholeheartedly recommend it, ascend Chapultepec Hill to reach Castillo de Chapultepec, a magnificent castle that once served as the residence of Mexican Emperor Maximiliano I. This iconic castle is a major draw for visitors, so expect it to be lively. The panoramic views from the hilltop are simply breathtaking and absolutely worth the climb! The castle now functions as a museum, offering a fascinating deep dive into Mexican history.
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 boutiques, luxurious hotels, and fine-dining restaurants. At the end of Paseo de la Reforma, you’ll find the Angel of Independence, one of Mexico City’s most recognizable landmarks. This golden monument symbolizes Mexico’s hard-won independence from Spain and serves as a powerful reminder of the country’s rich and complex past.
Conclude your day with dinner and drinks in Polanco, another of CDMX’s chic and trendy neighborhoods. Polanco is synonymous with upscale dining and sophisticated bars, and is home to Avenida Presidente Masaryk, the most prestigious and expensive street in Mexico.
This neighborhood is the place to be if you’re seeking a glamorous night out. Mexico City boasts an incredible underground bar scene (a word of caution about mezcal shots – savor them, don’t shoot them back!), and you’ll find some of the very best bars nestled in Polanco.
For an exceptional dining experience, I highly recommend Biko, consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in Mexico City. Reservations are essential as it’s a very popular spot and books up quickly.
Day Two: Frida Kahlo, Coyoacan Charm, and the Historic Centro
Today is dedicated to one of my absolute favorite things to do in Mexico City! I’m utterly captivated by Frida Kahlo – she’s not only an iconic Mexican artist but a global legend. 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.
Start your day with a pilgrimage to the Frida Kahlo Museum, also lovingly known as La Casa Azul (The Blue House). Located in the charming Coyoacan neighborhood, the museum is housed in Kahlo’s former home. This deeply personal space has been transformed into a museum dedicated to her life and extraordinary artistic legacy. It’s an intimate yet profoundly impactful museum where you can view many of her most famous paintings alongside her personal belongings, offering a unique window into her world. The museum garden is also a tranquil oasis, well worth a peaceful stroll.
To ensure you don’t miss out, purchase your tickets online and in advance, especially during peak season.
After your museum visit, immerse yourself in the Coyoacan neighborhood itself, one of Mexico City’s oldest and most historically rich areas. Coyoacan offers a distinct atmosphere, completely different from the vibes of Roma Norte and Condesa. It’s decidedly more traditional, characterized by its colonial-era architecture and charming cobblestone streets. You’ll also discover a wealth of wonderful shops, inviting cafes, and authentic restaurants here. Be sure to indulge in a traditional Mexican dessert while you’re exploring – churros con chocolate are always a delicious choice!
In the afternoon, journey to the Centro Historico, Mexico City’s magnificent historic center. Recognized as one of the largest and best-preserved historic centers in all of the Americas, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a treasure trove of colonial-style buildings, grand plazas, and impressive churches. It’s also home to some of my absolute favorite museums in Mexico City, such as the Palacio de Bellas Artes.
If you only have time for one museum in this area, however, my strongest recommendation is the Museo Nacional de Antropologia (National Museum of Anthropology). This is the most popular museum to visit in CDMX, and with good reason. The museum is vast and houses an unparalleled collection of ancient Mexican artifacts, spanning millennia of history. For me, the highlight is the Aztec Temple ruins located right in the museum’s central courtyard. You can also marvel at the iconic “Sun Stone” on display here, one of the most significant and recognizable Aztec artifacts in the world.
If the Museo Nacional de Antropologia doesn’t quite match your interests, head to the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts), widely considered to be the most beautiful building in Mexico City. This architectural masterpiece, built in the Art Deco style, houses a theater, an opera house, and several significant art galleries. Don’t miss the impressive mural by Diego Rivera on display here, which vividly depicts the history of Mexico from the Aztec civilization to the 20th century.
Both of these world-class museums are conveniently located within the Centro Historico, making it entirely feasible to visit both in a single day if you’re keen.
If you have some time to spare before dinner, take a stroll through Zocalo, Mexico City’s main square. This enormous plaza is the largest square in Latin America and is encircled 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 spot for people-watching and simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Mexico City.
Cap off your day with an authentic and delicious Mexican dinner. While Mexico City boasts countless world-class, upscale restaurants, sometimes nothing beats the simple pleasure of a good old-fashioned street taco. Seek out one of the many taquerias throughout the city for some incredibly tasty and affordable tacos. I highly recommend Taqueria Los Cocuyos nearby – even Anthony Bourdain was a huge fan of this place and featured it on his show, No Reservations!
Day Three: Teotihuacan Pyramids and Souvenir Shopping
Prepare for an early start on your final day in Mexico City – we’re going to end your trip with an unforgettable experience! And by unforgettable, I mean a hot air balloon ride over the majestic Teotihuacan pyramids! This is truly a bucket-list adventure.
Teotihuacan is an ancient Mesoamerican city, once one of the largest and most influential cities in the entire world. This archaeological site is home to some of the most impressive pyramids in Mexico, including the colossal Pyramid of the Sun and the elegant Pyramid of the Moon. It’s an absolutely incredible site and undeniably worth a visit.
Your hot air balloon ride will take place at sunrise, so yes, you’ll need to wake up early! The flight itself lasts for about an hour and is utterly magical. You’ll be treated to unparalleled panoramic views of the pyramids bathed in the golden morning light and the surrounding valley stretching out before you. It’s an experience you’ll treasure forever. Teotihuacan is located about an hour outside of Mexico City, but your tour will conveniently pick you up from your hotel in the pre-dawn hours and drop you back off after your breathtaking flight over the pyramids.
Check out availability for hot air ballooning below:
After your hot air balloon adventure, you’ll have some time to explore Teotihuacan on the ground at your own pace. I highly recommend climbing to the top of the Pyramid of the Sun. It’s a challenging climb, especially in the altitude, but the panoramic views from the summit are simply awe-inspiring. You can also visit the nearby Museum of Teotihuacan, which offers fascinating exhibits detailing the history and culture of this ancient city.
Once you return to Mexico City, head to the Mercado De Artesanias La Ciudadela. This sprawling handicraft market is a treasure trove, overflowing with everything from traditional Mexican textiles and vibrant pottery to intricately hand-carved wooden animals and leather goods. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs for your friends and family back home, or a special memento for yourself. 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, I know, we’ve packed a lot into these three days, but if you have a little time left, my final recommendation is a short 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 that once housed Rivera’s studio, and it exhibits some of his original paintings and sketches, offering insights into his artistic process. It’s a wonderful way to learn more about Rivera and his significant contributions to Mexican art. The museum is also home to his iconic mural, Sueño de una Tarde Dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Park), an absolute must-see masterpiece.
After visiting the Museo Mural Diego Rivera, wrap up your incredible three days with some more delicious Mexican food and celebrate the end of your trip with refreshing, freshly made margaritas!
I sincerely hope you’ve enjoyed your whirlwind three days in Mexico City! There truly is so much to see and do in this dynamic and captivating city, and I hope this itinerary has given you a fantastic taste of what it has to offer.
What to Know Before You Go to Mexico City
First and foremost: do not drink the tap water under any circumstances. Mexico City is unfortunately notorious for its water pollution, so it’s essential to drink only bottled water. Thankfully, bottled water is incredibly cheap and readily available everywhere.
Keep in mind the sheer scale of the city. While this 3-day guide focuses on geographically close neighborhoods, it’s crucial to plan your activities in advance and allow ample travel time between locations. The last thing you want is to miss out on something amazing because you underestimated travel time or got lost!
Where To Stay in Mexico City
Mexico City is enormous. It’s actually the largest city in North America, so choosing the right area to stay can feel a bit overwhelming. Luckily, I’ve spent a considerable amount of time in the city and can confidently narrow down the best locations for you!
For an ideal base, I recommend staying in Condesa, Roma Norte, or Coyoacan. These neighborhoods are all fantastic choices, brimming with excellent restaurants and bars to keep you entertained, and they’re all relatively centrally located, making it easy to explore different parts of the city. Over the past few years, these areas have undergone significant revitalization and are now some of the most desirable and safest places to stay in Mexico City.
My absolute favorite boutique hotel when I’m in Mexico City is Mansión Papilio. This charming bed and breakfast is nestled in Coyoacan, making it the perfect location if you plan to follow this three-day itinerary closely. It’s also utterly gorgeous. Stepping into this mansion is like stepping back into the glamorous 1920s, instantly making you feel incredibly chic. Each room is uniquely and beautifully decorated, and surprisingly spacious – a real bonus in Mexico City.
The garden is one of my favorite spots to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning. You can even watch peacocks roam freely on the property, adding a touch of unique charm to your day. The staff at Mansión Papilio are exceptional and go above and beyond to ensure you have the best possible trip! I can’t recommend this boutique hotel highly enough. Plus, they have a fantastic pool to cool off in during the hot Mexican summer months.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Mexico City
The most pleasant time to visit Mexico City is during the spring or fall, when the weather is generally milder and more comfortable. Summers can be intensely hot and humid, making it less enjoyable to be out exploring for long periods, and winters can be surprisingly cold and sometimes wet. However, even if you don’t mind the heat, the city retains its beauty during the summer months, and there are still plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy.
Another factor to consider when planning your visit to Mexico City is whether there are any festivals or special events happening that you might want to experience. Mexico City is renowned for its incredible array of fiestas and cultural celebrations, and there’s almost always something exciting going on!
My personal favorite time of year to be in Mexico is during Dia De los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, which takes place from October 31st to November 2nd. Day of the Dead is a deeply meaningful and traditional Mexican holiday that celebrates deceased loved ones, and it’s an absolutely unforgettable cultural experience. During this time, the city bursts into life with vibrant, colorful decorations, elaborate altars, and processions and parties that continue day and night. If you have the opportunity to visit Mexico City during Day of the Dead, I wholeheartedly recommend it!
How to Get Around Mexico City
When it comes to navigating Mexico City, you have several transportation options.
The first option is the metro, which is an incredibly affordable and efficient way to get around the city. A single ride costs a mere 5 pesos, which is about .25 cents in U.S. dollars. The metro can become very crowded, especially during rush hour, but it remains the fastest and most economical way to travel across the city.
Another popular option for exploring Mexico City is using Uber. Ride-sharing services like Uber are increasingly common in the city and offer a convenient way to get around, particularly if you’re not comfortable using the metro system. Uber is also surprisingly affordable in Mexico City.
The last option – and my personal favorite when possible – is to walk! Mexico City is remarkably walkable, especially in neighborhoods like Roma Norte, Condesa, and Coyoacan. Exploring on foot allows you to truly immerse yourself in the city’s rhythm and atmosphere, and you’re much more likely to stumble upon hidden gems and local experiences along the way.
How to Stay Safe in Mexico City
Mexico City is a vast and bustling metropolis, and like any major city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take sensible precautions. Like any large city, certain areas can be less safe than others. I always advise using common sense when traveling anywhere – this means avoiding flashing expensive jewelry or electronics and not wandering alone down poorly lit streets at night.
However, I want to emphasize that, personally, I have never felt unsafe in Mexico City. In fact, I’ve consistently found the local people to be incredibly friendly and helpful, and I’ve never encountered any negative experiences.
As with any large metropolitan city, be mindful of pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas such as the metro and bustling markets. Keep your valuables secure and close to your body, and carry a photocopy of your passport in case of loss or theft.
One important thing to be aware of is that Mexico City is located in a seismically active region, so it’s wise to be informed and have a basic plan in mind in case of an earthquake. Don’t be like me – I grew up in a place with no earthquakes, and during my first one while traveling, I was so unprepared that I had to Google “what to do in an earthquake” while my hotel room was shaking around me!
Beyond these general safety tips, I genuinely believe that Mexico City is a very safe place to visit, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to friends and fellow travelers without hesitation!
Mexico City is rapidly becoming one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations, and it’s easy to understand why. This vibrant city offers something for everyone, from its exceptional culinary scene and rich cultural heritage to its stunning architecture and profound history. If you’re searching for an unforgettable vacation experience, Mexico City is absolutely the place to be.
Come and experience the magic of Mexico City before even more people discover just how truly wonderful it is!
