Mexico City captivates from the moment you consider visiting. Its vibrant culture, rich history, and tantalizing culinary scene are just the tip of the iceberg. Planning a trip to a city as dynamic as Mexico City requires careful consideration, and one of the first practical questions for any international traveler is, naturally, “What Time Is In Mexico City?”. Understanding the local time is crucial for everything from booking flights and tours to simply knowing when the best time to call home is.
After multiple trips and spending nearly a month exploring its depths, we’ve fallen head over heels for Mexico City. It’s a city that rewards exploration, offering incredible public transport, a food scene that ranges from world-class restaurants to unforgettable street tacos, and a deep cultural and historical context that enriches every experience. On our most recent visit, a walking tour (we highly recommend this tour) and a visit to the Anthropology Museum unveiled layers of history, transforming our appreciation for this unique metropolis.
Understanding how Mexico City evolved from a city built on a lake to the sprawling urban center it is today provides a profound perspective. This historical context is key to appreciating the city’s soul, and it’s why this guide to 4 days in Mexico City emphasizes experiences that connect you with locals, offering insights only they can provide.
But enough about our experiences, let’s focus on helping you plan your own unforgettable adventure. This guide offers a 4-day Mexico City itinerary drawn from our personal explorations across multiple trips. We’ll cover essential logistics – including where to stay and how to get around, always keeping in mind details like “what time is in mexico city” for seamless planning – before diving into a detailed itinerary packed with recommendations to maximize your visit.
Our goal is to equip you with all the information you need to craft your perfect Mexico City experience, highlighting places and activities we loved and believe you will too.
A vibrant street scene in Mexico City, showcasing colorful buildings and bustling pedestrian activity.
Contents
1 How Many Days Do You Need in Mexico City?
2 Where to Stay in Mexico City
5 Things to Know Before You Go
6 4 Days in Mexico City: A Perfect Itinerary for First Timers
1 How Many Days Do You Need in Mexico City?
When starting to plan your Mexico City adventure, the sheer size of the metropolis is the first thing to grasp. As the largest city in North America by population, Mexico City presents an almost overwhelming array of attractions and experiences. Fitting everything into a short trip is simply impossible.
Even after three visits, including two lasting over a week, there are still places on our Mexico City list we haven’t explored. This itinerary aims to leverage our accumulated experience and knowledge to guide you in prioritizing your time in this incredible city.
For a first-time visit, we recommend allocating between four and six days to Mexico City. This timeframe allows you to experience the highlights without feeling completely rushed. This guide focuses on a four-day itinerary, with suggestions for extending your stay in a dedicated section at the end.
2 Where to Stay in Mexico City
After numerous Mexico City trips and stays in various neighborhoods, including Coyoacán, we strongly suggest choosing accommodation in the central trio of Roma Norte, Condesa, or Juarez, especially for shorter visits like a four-day trip.
There are compelling reasons behind this recommendation.
Firstly, location is key. These neighborhoods form a convenient triangle on the southeastern edge of Chapultepec Park, positioned roughly equidistant from both Polanco and the Centro Histórico. This central location ensures you’re never too far from the city’s main attractions.
Secondly, consider the atmosphere. Roma Norte and Condesa are known as some of Mexico City’s more upscale and desirable areas. You’ll find charming tree-lined streets and a concentration of the city’s best restaurants and bars.
While each neighborhood offers a slightly different vibe, here’s a brief overview:
P.S. We generally advise against staying in the Historic Center (Centro Histórico). While a must-visit, it can be noisy, intensely busy, and overwhelming as a base for your entire stay.
For a more detailed exploration, our guide to the best places to stay in Mexico City offers in-depth insights into our four favorite neighborhoods, outlining the pros and cons of each, along with curated hotel and guesthouse recommendations that stand out for their unique appeal.
3 Getting Around Mexico City
It’s essential to remember that Mexico City is the largest city in North America. This has significant implications for transportation.
Firstly, traffic congestion is a serious issue. Between approximately 11 am and 7 pm daily, major roads throughout the city become heavily congested. Travel times between neighborhoods, such as from Centro to Roma Norte or Condesa to Coyoacán, can be significantly extended during peak hours.
To navigate this, you’ll need to either factor in extra travel time for scheduled activities or rely on public transportation, which largely avoids traffic thanks to the metro system and dedicated bus lanes.
Secondly, walking between neighborhoods, while appealing, isn’t always practical. While walking within a neighborhood is enjoyable and recommended, for inter-neighborhood travel, Uber or public transportation are generally the most efficient options.
Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on your priorities. Let’s explore both:
Using Public Transportation in Mexico City
Mexico City’s public transportation network boasts impressive coverage. The combination of buses and the metro can take you virtually anywhere you need to go, typically costing only 5-8 pesos per ride.
However, this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the quickest or most efficient way to travel.
In our experience, using public transport in Mexico City often involves transfers, which can be confusing and time-consuming, or requires a significant walk from the station to your final destination.
Furthermore, both the metro and buses are frequently packed, especially during peak hours, which may not be the most comfortable experience.
The primary advantage of public transportation is bypassing the notorious Mexico City traffic, particularly during rush hour (roughly 11 am to 7 pm).
However, these hours also coincide with peak ridership on the metro and buses, leading to crowded conditions. If you have time-sensitive commitments like tours or classes during rush hour, public transport is a reliable way to avoid traffic delays.
Using Uber in Mexico City
For efficiency (traffic aside) and safety, Uber is generally the best alternative to public transportation in Mexico City.
While taxis are readily available and affordable, language barriers can be a challenge if you’re not fluent in Spanish. The lack of pre-set fares in taxis can also lead to inflated costs.
Uber, with its fixed fares set before you ride and clear origin and destination input, offers a more reliable and transparent experience. We frequently use Uber when walking or public transport isn’t feasible or time-efficient.
4 Is Mexico City Safe?
It’s a common concern, and understandably so. Whenever we plan a trip to Mexico City, family members often express anxieties about safety.
“Stay in touch! Stay together! Be aware of your surroundings!” These are, of course, generally sound travel tips anywhere.
However, this level of concern often seems disproportionate compared to when we visit cities like Paris or Amsterdam, despite similar safety advisory levels from sources like the US State Department at the time of writing.
Based on our experiences, in the tourist areas of Mexico City, which are likely to be the focus of your itinerary, we have never felt less safe or comfortable than in cities within the United States.
It’s important to remember that Mexico City is vast, and tourist-friendly areas are distinct from areas with higher safety concerns.
However, it’s wise to be mindful of safety precautions in Mexico City. Here are a few recommendations:
- Leave valuables at home.
- Be vigilant about your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
- Avoid walking alone late at night.
- Choose Uber over taxis for enhanced reliability and safety (as discussed earlier).
5 Things to Know Before You Go
Here are some essential tips to keep in mind before your trip to Mexico City:
Be aware of the high altitude. Mexico City sits at a significant elevation of 7,350 feet (2,240 meters) above sea level. Altitude sickness is a real possibility. Take it easy on your first day, stay well-hydrated, and wear sunscreen as the sun’s intensity is amplified at higher altitudes.
The sun is strong. Partly due to the elevation, the sun in Mexico City is particularly intense. Sun protection – sunscreen, hats, and long sleeves – is crucial, even on seemingly cloudy days.
Pack layers for temperature fluctuations. Especially during winter months (November, December, and February), Mexico City experiences significant temperature swings. Mornings can be cool, while afternoons can become surprisingly warm, with temperature differences of up to 30 degrees Fahrenheit (around 17 degrees Celsius).
Bring lip balm. The altitude also contributes to Mexico City’s very dry climate. Lip balm is essential to prevent chapped lips.
Avoid drinking tap water. Unfortunately, tap water in Mexico City is not safe for consumption. Bottled water is the safest option. Consider purchasing large jugs of water to refill a reusable water bottle, reducing plastic waste from smaller bottles.
English is spoken, but Spanish is helpful and appreciated. English is more prevalent in Mexico City, particularly in neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma Norte, than in other parts of Mexico or Latin America. However, knowing basic Spanish phrases like “hello,” “please,” “thank you,” and “do you speak English?” will be incredibly useful and appreciated by locals (Chilangos).
Rainy season is significant. Like many equatorial regions, Mexico City has a distinct rainy season, typically from June to October (summer months). During this period, expect afternoon downpours, often starting around 3 pm and lasting for a few hours or less. Visiting during the dry season (winter for North Americans and Europeans) offers pleasant sunshine and a welcome break from persistent gray skies in many northern regions. And importantly for planning, remember to check “what time is in mexico city” in relation to sunrise and sunset times, as daylight hours can vary seasonally and affect your itinerary.
6 4 Days in Mexico City: A Perfect Itinerary for First Timers
Now, let’s dive into the heart of this guide: a detailed 4-day itinerary for exploring Mexico City.
We’ve learned a valuable travel lesson over years of exploration, particularly during a three-month European trip:
Travel becomes richer, more rewarding, and more enjoyable when you actively seek to connect with locals and experience a place through their perspectives.
We embraced this philosophy in Mexico City, participating in various tours and local experiences that unveiled new facets of the city, its culture, and its people.
Our top recommendation for Mexico City is to prioritize tours, and this itinerary reflects that emphasis. Structurally, we build each day around a central experience, allowing time before and after for coffee, drinks, and leisurely neighborhood exploration.
Day 1: Introduction and the Centro Histórico
A panoramic view of the historic center of Mexico City, showcasing grand architecture and a bustling city square.
The ideal starting point for your Mexico City adventure is the Centro Histórico, the historic heart of the city.
This area marks the founding location of Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital. We learned that the Aztecs migrated from the north and, after centuries of wandering, settled in the valley where Mexico City now stands.
It’s crucial to grasp that Mexico City is built upon a former lakebed (or swamp, depending on the interpretation). Centuries ago, a network of canals resembled Amsterdam more than today’s sprawling metropolis.
Over the past century, most canals have been filled in, though remnants persist south of the city in Xochimilco, a vital piece of Mexico City’s story we’ll explore on Day 4.
This urban development has a significant consequence: Mexico City is sinking as groundwater is extracted. Denser areas like the Centro Histórico, Roma, and Condesa are particularly affected due to the weight of buildings and population density.
Before delving further, a quick quiz: How many inches per year do you estimate the historic center of Mexico City is sinking on average?
Guesses from friends and family ranged from half an inch to a bold five inches.
The actual figure is a staggering 20 inches, nearly two feet annually. This dramatic subsidence raises long-term concerns about the city’s structural integrity.
Despite this, the Centro Histórico remains a captivating and essential destination. Having spent roughly three days exploring it, our preferred approach is to begin with a guided tour, followed by independent exploration of specific sites. This is the structure of our Day 1 itinerary.
A Guided Walking Tour of the Centro Histórico
Walking tours have become our favored method for initial city orientation for several reasons.
Firstly, they provide a concentrated history and culture lesson, a valuable foundation for enriching the rest of your trip.
Secondly, you spend a few hours with a local guide who offers insider tips on food, drinks, and must-see attractions, often leading you to hidden gems.
Lastly, as highlighted in Mexico City where a self-guided exploration missed 90% of the nuances, guided tours reveal places you’d likely overlook on your own.
For example, in a building adorned with Azulejos tiles in the Centro Histórico, an upstairs room houses photographs of Mexican Independence fighters, including Pancho Villa, pictured at the very bar within that building – a detail we’d have easily missed independently.
A beautifully tiled building facade in the Centro Histórico, showcasing intricate blue and white azulejo tiles.
The opulent interior of the Palacio de Bellas Artes, featuring ornate details and grand architecture.
To truly delve into the Centro Histórico, the site of the original Aztec city of Tenochtitlan built atop a lake, a guided walking tour is invaluable.
Based on our experience with Mariel, an anthropology student and Mexico City native, we highly recommend spending a few hours with her.
We opted for this private tour due to our group size and our positive experiences with With Locals, which connects travelers with local guides worldwide.
The tour encompasses key sights in the center, including the Palacio de Bellas Artes, the Zocalo, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, along with lesser-known gems like palaces, an incredibly ornate post office, and the exterior of Templo Mayor, the central Aztec temple.
The highlight for us was the opportunity to choose our guide. We selected Mariel for her enthusiasm, local perspective, and anthropology background. It was unanimously a trip highlight.
Click here to check prices and availability for the walking tour we took (and be sure to choose Mariel!).
Tacos al Pastor and Pulque
Post-tour, hunger will likely strike. Fortunately, fantastic taco spots are within walking distance.
We discovered these on a street food tour years ago and revisited them on our recent trip.
El Huequito tied for our favorite tacos al pastor in Mexico City. Notably, the Centro location significantly outperformed another branch we tried.
A close-up of tacos al pastor being prepared, showcasing the marinated pork and skilled taquero.
Our preferred way to enjoy tacos al pastor at El Huequito is to skip the indoor seating line and eat at the counter. Simply approach the taquero (meat handler) and order your tacos, specifying “con todo” (with onions and cilantro).
Then, head to the counter for salsas and lime wedges – essential additions to generously squeeze over each taco.
After tacos, it’s time for an experience that was both a highlight and slightly stressful: pulque.
Across from El Huequito, Google Maps revealed a pulqueria with excellent reviews. My brothers had expressed interest in pulque, and this felt like the perfect moment.
What exactly is pulque?
Pulque is fermented agave juice, often back-sweetened with fruit juice. It’s similar to kombucha in its low alcohol content (1-4%) but has a thicker, viscous texture, somewhat like nopales (cactus).
For more pulque information, this Serious Eats article is informative.
The pulqueria we entered, Las Duelistas, is arguably the most famous in Mexico, mentioned in the Serious Eats piece.
Pulque is typically enjoyed as an after-work social drink, and arriving around 5 pm, we found Las Duelistas absolutely packed.
It was so crowded we squeezed into a shared table, and picture-taking was forgotten in the effort to avoid spilling drinks or bumping neighbors.
The crowd’s diverse age range was surprising, from young couples to older men singing along loudly to the jukebox.
Managing to decipher the server’s lip movements, we ordered three glasses of pulque: two guava (my favorite) and one cucumber-lime with a Tajín rim, the server’s recommendation.
Guava remains my top choice, but with a rotating selection of five or six flavors, try the guava and then ask the server “cual es tu favorito?” for their recommendation.
Torre Latinoamericana
The breathtaking panoramic view of Mexico City at sunset from the Torre Latinoamericana.
For the best panoramic view of Mexico City and the valley, envisioning its former lake setting, ascend Torre Latinoamericana, Mexico City’s first skyscraper.
You might wonder, as we did, who conceived building a skyscraper on a swamp in an earthquake-prone zone.
…The answer is not entirely clear (it was commissioned by an insurance company), but it has withstood multiple major earthquakes (though it is sinking).
Their website notes that foreign cards aren’t accepted for online ticket purchases. You can buy tickets on-site (expect long lines, especially on weekends) or via third-party sites (linked on their website).
However, even with third-party vouchers, you still need to queue to exchange them, offering no real time savings.
Our advice: purchase tickets upon arrival. Opt for the “mirador” (viewpoint) ticket, not museum access. More information here.
Alternatively, if lines are long, skip the mirador and have a drink at the bar (Miralto) near the top. The cost is similar to the mirador ticket, and you bypass the queue, taking the elevator directly to the 40th floor. Remember to factor in “what time is in mexico city” when planning your visit to Torre Latinoamericana, especially if you want to catch the sunset view.
Choose Your Own (Mezcal) Adventure
To conclude your first day, we offer a choice.
Remember choose-your-own-adventure books?
We have a similar choice for you, centered around mezcal.
My first Mexico City trip sparked a fascination with mezcal’s diverse flavors. Coming from the US, I’d associated mezcal solely with smokiness.
However, that trip revealed bright, citrusy, fruity, even floral mezcals. Smokiness is just one note in a broad flavor spectrum.
On a subsequent trip, we did a guided mezcal tasting to delve deeper.
This experience is more optional compared to other itinerary items, hence the two options: our guided tasting or a DIY version exploring our favorite Roma Norte mezcal spots.
Your choice depends on budget and interest. Either way, investing a couple of hours in exploring mezcal is highly recommended, especially if your experience is limited to smoky US versions.
A Guided Mezcal Tasting
This guided mezcal tasting is the one we did. We spent a couple of hours in an intimate Roma Norte setting, tasting five mezcal varieties with a small group.
The session began with a mezcal overview – origin, production, regional variations – followed by tasting notes for each variety, highlighting unique characteristics. A bonus tasting of a special mezcal concluded the experience.
Even for those not keen on straight liquor, this tasting was fantastic. While not inexpensive at $60 per person, the value lies in the expert explanations and curated selection showcasing mezcal diversity.
Pro-tip: Eat a substantial meal beforehand. Five mezcal samples, even sipped and savored, are potent.
DIY Mezcal Tour
For a DIY approach, focus on three Roma Norte bars we’ve enjoyed, all within a 10-minute walk, presented in recommended tasting order:
La Clandestina: Our original recommendation, visited across three trips. Less curated, but with an extensive mezcal menu from Espadins to wilder varieties from Jalisco (beyond Oaxaca). Their Kiwi Mezcal cocktail is exceptional.
Mano Santa: Another intimate Roma Norte mezcaleria with sidewalk seating. Wide mezcal selection, including varied varietals and experimental processes. Oaxacan food menu (get the tlayuda).
Mis Mescales: Previously my top recommendation for buying mezcal to take home. Excellent selection, helpful owner, Roma Norte location. Disappointingly, I learned they now offer GUIDED TASTINGS for about $20 USD, including four mezcals in their intimate space near Mercado Roma. More information here.
Day 2: Chapultepec Park, the National Museum of Anthropology, and Polanco
Day two is dedicated to a history lesson spanning millennia, from Mayan and Aztec civilizations to modern Mexico.
This learning is bookended by coffee in La Condesa, a stroll through Mexico City’s version of Central Park, and an evening in Polanco, the city’s most glamorous neighborhood.
IMPORTANT NOTE: These museums are closed on Mondays. If Day 2 falls on a Monday, swap it with another day. Remember to check “what time is in mexico city” to ensure you arrive at museums during their opening hours, and to factor in travel time between locations.
But First, Coffee in La Condesa
Caffeine is essential to fuel a museum-heavy day. The northwest corner of La Condesa, near your first park stop, offers excellent coffee options.
Three recommendations to start your day:
Camino a Comala: Recommended by our coffee experience guide, Christian, and exceptional.
Their gesha from Finca Chelín in Oaxaca was tied for the best coffee in Mexico City: floral aroma and taste. They also offer more affordable pour-over coffees and espresso drinks.
Anvil Café: A tiny, tortilleria-sized space, worth visiting for their horchata espresso alone. The barista was friendly and helpful, explaining pour-over brewing methods. Limited sidewalk and bar seating.
Blend Station: Mixed feelings on Blend Station. Positive: beautiful space, a typical espresso bar opening into a large atrium. If choosing a coffee shop to relax in, this would be it.
However, coffee quality was inconsistent. 50% hit rate: loved one of two coffees in-store and one of two bags bought to take home. Espresso tonic was lovely.
Chapultepec Park, Chapultepec Castle, and the National History Museum
Chapultepec Castle perched atop a hill in Chapultepec Park, offering a view of the city skyline.
A 2023 discovery, Chapultepec Park and Castle surprised us, despite previous trips.
It has everything we enjoy: city views, history (though in Spanish), and murals.
Chapultepec Castle sits atop a hill in Chapultepec Park, offering city views (weather permitting).
Originally built in the late 18th century as a palace, its panoramic location is unsurprising.
Over time, it served as a palace, military base, and now a museum: the Museo Nacional de Historia, or National History Museum.
While the Anthropology Museum covers pre-Mexican state history, the National History Museum tells Mexico’s story from Spanish colony to present day.
Chronologically organized, the highlight is the large murals depicting the War of Independence, the Revolution, and the Mexican-American War (where US forces captured the castle with heavy losses).
A large mural celebrating the Mexican Revolution in the National Museum of History, depicting key figures and events.
Allow 60-90 minutes for the museum, including historical exhibits and views.
Mostly in Spanish, but visually rich, making it worthwhile even without Spanish fluency.
Tickets are purchased on-site, costing 90 pesos (at writing). Check here for updated hours, prices, etc.
Important note: No bags larger than small backpacks or food/drinks allowed. Bag check requires a 10-peso token from the ticket office.
El Museo Nacional de Antropología
Our strongest recommendation on this itinerary is for the Museo Nacional de Antropología – “the Anthropology Museum.”
It’s a prestigious Mexico City museum for good reason, covering millennia of Mexican history with artifacts focusing on indigenous peoples.
While Mayan and Aztec history is touched upon in US education, it’s insufficient coverage for such significant civilizations.
A serene fountain in the courtyard of the Anthropology Museum at golden hour, reflecting the surrounding architecture.
Our museum philosophy evolved from our first Mexico City trip in 2017. Initially, we visited the Anthropology Museum independently, learning a key lesson: we aren’t great at museums on our own.
This has been confirmed at museums worldwide. For us to truly understand exhibits, expert storytelling is essential. Otherwise, we tend to wander, making superficial observations.
Our firm recommendation: if possible, visit the Anthropology Museum only with a guide.
The iconic Aztec sun stone on display at the Anthropology Museum, showcasing intricate carvings.
Two main reasons support this.
Firstly, it’s massive, with 22 rooms of artifacts spanning millennia. Seeing everything would take over a day. A guide helps prioritize.
Secondly, almost all signage is in Spanish (limited English room summaries, but few artifact-specific explanations).
Even with decent Spanish proficiency, the museum’s specialized vocabulary can be challenging.
Visiting the Anthropology Museum on a Guided Tour
We took this tour with Carlos, another trip highlight.
Three hours with Carlos focused on Mayan, Aztec, and Teotihuacan rooms, weaving a narrative connecting these civilizations and enriching our understanding.
An interesting fact: Mayan ruins appear more eroded than Aztec ruins due to Mayan use of limestone (more susceptible to erosion) versus Aztec basalt (more durable).
The Anthropology Museum is worthwhile, especially paired with the National History Museum, but challenging independently. A guided tour maximizes your experience. When planning your museum visit, remember to check “what time is in mexico city” to align with tour schedules and museum closing times.
Click here to check prices and availability for the Anthropology Museum tour we did, which includes entry and is worth the cost.
Doing the Anthropology Museum on Your Own
If visiting independently, an English audio guide is recommended.
Consider timing your visit. Afternoon visits (tour time) are less crowded, especially compared to morning school groups.
Afternoon visits a few hours before closing are preferable.
Advance ticket purchase is advisable (once in Mexico City is sufficient), available here (“buy tickets” button on top bar, website language switch at top right).
Important note: Bag restrictions and bag check are similar to the National History Museum. Avoid large bags if possible to bypass long bag check lines.
Feast in Polanco
Polanco is Mexico City’s glamorous district, north of Bosque de Chapultepec.
It’s filled with upscale boutiques, fine dining restaurants (including two top-15 world restaurants), and chic bars.
An evening in Polanco is worthwhile, especially for fine dining enthusiasts.
Three Polanco recommendations, though much more is available (Museo Soumaya’s modern art is a great option with more time).
Firstly, fine dining is a must-do.
Two highly acclaimed Mexico City restaurants are near each other in Polanco.
Enrique Olvera’s Pujol and Quintonil are both exceptional.
Pujol is traditional and understated, while Quintonil is more adventurous and flamboyant.
Reservations are essential months in advance, but if choosing, Quintonil offers a more adventurous take on Mexican cuisine.
A beautifully plated dish at Pujol, showcasing refined Mexican cuisine.
Secondly, Limantour lives up to the hype. A cocktail bar consistently ranked among the “world’s 50 best bars,” it’s always a great experience.
Artfully crafted cocktails at Limantour, showcasing vibrant colors and garnishes.
Thirdly, explore Polanco’s shops and window displays. Start at Pasaje Polanco (here on Google Maps) and wander the neighborhood.
Day 3: A Cooking Class, Roma Norte, and La Condesa
Day three focuses on Mexican food culture, starting with a cooking class and market tour in Roma Norte.
After the food coma subsides, explore Roma Norte before ending the day in leafy La Condesa.
A Cooking Class + Market Tour at Aura Cocina
Participants actively engaged in a Mexican cooking class, preparing traditional dishes.
Cooking classes (or food tours) are a favorite way to delve into a destination’s food culture, offering recipes as souvenirs.
As I write this, a taco recipe from a recent Mexico City cooking class simmers on my stove.
Having done both cooking classes and street food tours in Mexico City, we’d recommend a cooking class if forced to choose.
Experiences including market tours are particularly valuable, providing context often missed independently. Without local guidance, market visits can become superficial.
I’ve taken two cooking classes at Aura Cocina, a Roma Norte studio, and highly recommend them as a key Mexico City itinerary component.
Both classes were led by Lorena, sister of Aura’s founder, Graciela.
Classes are five hours, but time flies.
The day begins around 9:30 am (for market tour classes) at their remodeled Roma Norte studio. Coffee and snacks are offered with a class overview.
Then, a trip to nearby Mercado Medellin explores fruits, flowers, tortillas (corn and flour), and Oaxacan treats.
Cooking begins back at the studio around 1 pm, followed by eating after an hour or two of preparation.
A close-up of hands preparing tacos during a cooking class, showcasing fresh ingredients.
Aura Cocina offers varied classes. I’ve enjoyed both their street tacos class, covering three taco types and salsas, and their four-course Mexican feast, featuring white mole and tlapique, dishes new to me.
The Mexican feast offers more unique recipes, but both classes are excellent choices.
Exploring Rome Norte
Roma Norte is a favorite Mexico City neighborhood and our top recommendation for where to stay.
Colonia Roma is southwest of Centro Histórico. Unlike La Condesa’s organic layout, Roma Norte follows a grid plan, reflecting its more modern development.
Roma Norte feels European, with boulevards, tree-lined streets, shops, cafes, restaurants, and apartments.
It began as a wealthy suburb for European aristocrats.
After a 1980s decline, it gentrified into today’s hip, desirable neighborhood, popular with expats and tourists.
Tree-lined streets of Roma Norte, showcasing leafy canopies and charming urban scenery.
Gentrification has made Roma Norte expensive, impacting long-term residents. Visiting requires awareness and respect for this impact.
Roma Norte favorites (excluding Day 1 mezcal spots):
- Expendio de Maíz Sin Nombre: Possibly our favorite Mexico City eatery. Open kitchen in a garage, menu-less, delicious food based on handmade nixtamalized corn tortillas. Culinary Backstreets piece and this piece offer context. Simple, high-quality ingredients create flavorful dishes.
- Pulqueria los Insurgentes: Hip pulqueria with multi-floor vibes.
- Panadería Rosetta: Possibly Mexico City’s most famous bakery, especially with expats and tourists. Expanded to a larger space with sidewalk patio. Long lines, but grab pastries to-go and enjoy them in the park.
- Cardinal Casa de Café: Tied for best coffee in the city. Excellent V60 recommendation and the Voltaire specialty drink (chocolate cappuccino).
- Tlecan: Excellent (though pricey) cocktails. Mezcal negroni is a highlight.
- Plaza Río de Janeiro: Our favorite Mexico City park. Fountain, David statue replica, dogs, pleasant atmosphere. Grab pastries from Panaderia Rosetta and enjoy them here. Location on Google Maps.
An assortment of pastries from Panaderia Rosetta, showcasing their tempting baked goods.
An Evening in La Condesa
La Condesa and Roma Norte are similar: upscale, leafy, popular with tourists/expats.
However, La Condesa is a maze of tree-lined streets around Parque México and Parque España.
“Condesa-Hipódromo” reflects its oval shape, a former horse racing track.
Today, La Condesa is upscale and popular with expats/tourists. “Condesa” means “countess,” indicating its history.
Leafy Parque Mexico in La Condesa, showcasing lush greenery and a vibrant urban park.
La Condesa favorites:
- Churrería El Moro: Touristy, yes. Worth it, yes. Churros con chocolate are a must-try. Grab churros and chocolate and enjoy them across the street in the park. Order churros and chocolate español (thick dipping chocolate).
- Baltra Bar: Our favorite Mexico City cocktail bar. Increasingly popular. Magical cocktails, housemade syrups/cordials.
- Pasillo de Humo: Great Oaxacan spot with tlayudas, moles, mezcal.
- Tacos Hola: Compact taco spot, home of tacos de guisado (stewed fillings). Counter full of clay pots with different stews. Highly recommended lunch spot.
- Maizajo: Tortilla-making equipment and fresh tortillas. Blue corn tortillas are exceptional. Also serves ready-to-eat food.
- Anvil and Camino a Comala: Top La Condesa coffee spots (mentioned earlier).
Tacos Hola with a counter display of various stews for tacos de guisado.
Tacos Hola with a counter display of various stews for tacos de guisado.
Day 4: Coyoacán and Xochimilco
Your final full day explores Mexico City’s south: Xochimilco canals and Coyoacán.
Exploring Mexico City’s Complex History in Xochimilco
Colorful trajineras boats navigating the canals of Xochimilco, with festive decorations and passengers.
Initially skeptical of Xochimilco, I (Matt) was proven wrong. Despite previous Mexico City trips, I’d overlooked it, picturing only tequila-fueled party boats.
However, this tour with Miroslava revealed Xochimilco’s value in understanding Mexico City’s origins.
Mexico City was built on a lake. The Mexicas (Aztecs) settled on a lake in a valley, creating Chinampas (man-made islands) for farming.
Tenochtitlan resembled Venice more than today’s city.
Canals, spring-fed and central to Tenochtitlan, now primarily exist in Xochimilco, a residential area south of the city center.
A tour offering historical and cultural context is the best way to experience Xochimilco.
Most tours emphasize partying, lacking historical depth.
Miroslava’s tour, led by a Xochimilco native, showcases her neighborhood with market visit, cooking class, and history/culture lesson.
Her three-hour tour explores the neighborhood and canals.
A group enjoying a meal on a trajinera boat in Xochimilco, with food and drinks on a decorated table.
Starting in the neighborhood market for lunch ingredients (cooked on the trajinera), the tour proceeds to the canals, explaining chinampas and the endangered Axolotl salamander.
Miroslava’s tour includes La Condesa pickup, valuable for transport to Xochimilco (otherwise Uber or metro required).
Combine Xochimilco with Coyoacán, located between Xochimilco and the city center. Remember to check “what time is in mexico city” when planning your trip to Xochimilco, as it is further from the city center and travel time needs to be factored in.
Exploring Coyoacán and the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul)
Coyoacán is special. The main plaza, Jardin Hidalgo, with its coyote fountain, radiates energy.
My first visit sparked the question: why don’t we have public spaces like this in the US? Similar to Italian piazzas.
Coyoacán’s centerpiece is Jardin Hidalgo and Fuente de los Coyotes, embodying the neighborhood’s village feel.
Cobblestone streets offer a slice of tranquility within hectic Mexico City.
Coyoacán’s most famous attraction is Casa Azul, the Frida Kahlo Museum.
It explores Frida Kahlo’s and Diego Rivera’s lives, Mexico’s iconic artist couple.
Alysha posing in front of the iconic blue walls of Casa Azul, the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacán.
Casa Azul is worthwhile, especially with the audio guide for context.
It’s a popular, compact museum. Book tickets in advance here.
Closed Mondays.
Combine Casa Azul booking with Xochimilco tour planning.
Other Coyoacán highlights:
- The twin plazas: Jardín Hidalgo and Jardín Centenario (and Fuente de los Coyotes) are Coyoacán’s heart. Vibrant energy.
- Cafe Avellaneda: Must-visit for coffee lovers. Tiny cafe serving Jiribilla coffee. Filter coffee, espresso drinks, specialty menu, excellent espresso tonic.
- Mercado de Coyoacán: Market with produce, food stalls, crafts, restaurants. Tostada stands are recommended (large one with yellow walls and orange lettering).
- Centro Cultural Elena Garro: Bookstore/community center, architecturally notable.
A decorative Coyoacán street sign, adding to the neighborhood's charming village atmosphere.
What to Do with More Time in Mexico City
For longer stays, consider these additions:
Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan pyramids are a must-see.
Guided tours are recommended, especially for transportation and expert insights.
The majestic pyramids of Teotihuacan rising above the landscape under a clear sky.
This tour includes transport, tour, lunch, and extra activities. Comprehensive, but potentially lengthy.
Teotihuacan tips: Exposed site, limited shade. Hat, long sleeves, sunscreen essential. Check “what time is in mexico city” to plan your early start to beat the heat and crowds.
Take a Street Food Tour
Street food tours are excellent for experiencing Mexico City’s vibrant street food culture.
Street food is a highlight of Mexico City’s culinary scene, especially blue corn quesadillas with squash blossoms and tamales dulces.
A close-up of a delicious blue corn quesadilla with squash blossoms, highlighting the vibrant colors and textures.
Guided tours enhance understanding of Mexican food culture.
Two recommended companies:
- Club Tengo Hambre’s Street Food Essentials Tour: Loop starting at Palacio Bellas Artes, 7-8 food stops, lasts hours.
- Eat Like a Local: Focus on local businesses, living wages, and authentic experiences. Mexican Food 101 tour recommended for first-timers, includes market and flower market visits.
- Street food + bike tour: Covers more ground than walking tours.
What to Do with Less Time in Mexico City
For shorter trips:
With Three Days
For three days, skip Xochimilco due to distance.
Focus on walking tour, cooking class, Anthropology Museum.
Incorporate Coyoacán on the morning of the Anthropology Museum day, potentially skipping the National History Museum.
With Two Days
Two days is insufficient for Mexico City, but maximize it with:
Day 1: Follow Day 1 itinerary (walking tour essential).
Day 2: Morning in Coyoacán (Cafe Avellaneda, plazas, Casa Azul). Afternoon in Roma Norte/La Condesa (Panaderia Rosetta, Cardinal, Expendio de Maíz, parks, Baltra, El Moro). Remember to check “what time is in mexico city” when quickly moving between locations to optimize your limited time.
A fast-paced two-day trip is still worthwhile.
