Mexico City, or CDMX as it’s lovingly known, is a city that truly captivates. Having explored many corners of the globe, I can confidently say that Mexico City holds a special place in my heart. It’s a vibrant metropolis where ancient history collides with modern dynamism, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. From the tantalizing aromas of street food to the echoes of Aztec emperors and the masterpieces of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, Mexico City is a feast for the senses.
With a sprawling population exceeding 21 million, Mexico City pulses as the heart of Mexico, both politically and economically. Its roots delve deep into the Aztec Empire, and today, it stands as a vibrant mosaic of cultures from across the nation and beyond. This cosmopolitan city is constantly evolving, drawing people in with its laid-back lifestyle, thriving cafe culture, and an irresistible culinary and nightlife scene that keeps visitors coming back for more. Words can hardly express my affection for CDMX – I’m certain you’ll be equally enchanted!
The rise of remote work has sparked a growing interest in relocating to Mexico City. However, I believe experiencing the city firsthand is crucial before making such a significant decision. And what better way to immerse yourself than with a well-planned three-day exploration of all that this incredible destination has to offer?
Mexico City is a tapestry of diverse neighborhoods, each possessing its own unique character. While a lifetime wouldn’t be enough to uncover every hidden gem, three days provides an ideal timeframe to savor the essence of this sprawling city without feeling overwhelmed by its sheer size. A week might feel excessive for a casual visit, and anything less than three days risks feeling rushed.
This guide is designed to not only provide you with a structured itinerary but also to serve as a springboard for your own adventures in Mexico City. Get ready to discover the magic of CDMX!
Day One in Mexico City: Roma Norte, Condesa & Chapultepec Park Exploration
Your first day in a new city should be a delightful immersion, and we’ll ease into the Mexico City experience by exploring some of its most enchanting neighborhoods. Mexico City boasts an array of charming districts, brimming with inviting cafes, fascinating museums, and lush parks – perfect for aimless wandering and soaking in the city’s unique vibe.
Today’s adventure begins in Roma Norte, a personal favorite.
Roma Norte exudes a bohemian spirit, characterized by independent boutiques, trendy cafes, and diverse restaurants. It’s the quintessential place to lose yourself in a relaxed morning of exploration and people-watching. Kickstart your day with a leisurely walk along Avenida Alvaro Obregon, a central artery of Roma Norte.
After a delicious breakfast at one of Roma Norte’s many cafes, head towards the Museo de Arte Moderno. While not massive, this museum houses a compelling collection of both Mexican and international modern art. You’ll encounter masterpieces by iconic figures like Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Rufino Tamayo, among others. Depending on your pace and interest in art history, allow approximately two hours to fully appreciate the museum’s offerings. You can explore independently or join one of the guided tours available in English for a deeper understanding.
Post-museum, continue wandering through Roma Norte’s captivating streets and pop into some of its unique shops. Casa Bonampak is a must-visit, specializing in exquisite traditional Mexican crafts and textiles. Here, you’ll find beautifully hand-embroidered blouses, delicate handmade paper goods, and vibrant, colorful ceramics – perfect souvenirs or mementos of your trip.
As lunchtime approaches, take a pleasant stroll into the neighboring Condesa district. Condesa seamlessly blends with Roma Norte, making it an easy and enjoyable walk. Condesa is renowned for its trendy dining scene, boasting a plethora of stylish restaurants and cafes. For a taste of Mexico City’s culinary fame, consider Contramar, a perpetually popular restaurant celebrated for its fresh and exquisite seafood.
For a more casual and equally satisfying lunch, grab authentic street tacos from one of Condesa’s numerous stands. You truly can’t go wrong with any choice, but my personal weakness is tacos al pastor – the marinated pork is simply divine! Just thinking about them makes my mouth water.
Condesa presents a distinct vibe compared to Roma Norte, often described as more “hip” and youthful. You’ll notice locals jogging or cycling through its tree-lined streets, alongside a wealth of boutiques, inviting parks, and charming cafes ready to be discovered.
Following lunch, immerse yourself in the vast expanse of Chapultepec Park, the largest urban park in Latin America. Spanning twice the size of New York’s Central Park, it’s easy to get delightfully lost in its green embrace. Chapultepec Park is an ideal sanctuary for relaxation, a leisurely stroll, or even a revitalizing run amidst the city’s bustle.
If you have the energy, and I wholeheartedly recommend it, ascend Chapultepec Hill to reach Castillo de Chapultepec. This historic castle was once the residence of Emperor Maximilian I of Mexico. As a major attraction, expect crowds, but the panoramic city views from the hilltop are undeniably worth the climb. The castle now functions as a museum, offering a fascinating journey through Mexican history.
After delving into Mexico’s struggle for independence 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 establishments. At the end of Paseo de la Reforma, you’ll encounter the Angel of Independence, a golden monument and one of Mexico City’s most recognized symbols. This landmark commemorates Mexico’s hard-won independence from Spain and stands as a powerful reminder of the nation’s rich heritage.
Conclude your first day with dinner and drinks in Polanco, another of CDMX’s fashionable neighborhoods. Polanco is synonymous with upscale dining and sophisticated bars, and is home to Avenida Presidente Masaryk, renowned as the most exclusive street in Mexico.
Polanco is the perfect district for an elegant night out. Mexico City boasts a fantastic underground bar scene (a word of caution with mezcal shots – savor them, don’t gulp!), and Polanco is home to some of the city’s finest.
For dinner, I highly recommend Biko, consistently ranked among Mexico City’s top restaurants. Reservations are essential as it’s a very popular spot.
Day Two: Immerse Yourself in Frida Kahlo & Historic Neighborhoods
Day two is dedicated to one of my absolute favorite things to do in Mexico City! I am completely captivated by Frida Kahlo – an iconic Mexican artist whose legacy resonates globally. Renowned for her compelling self-portraits, Frida Kahlo’s art provides an intimate glimpse into her life, her passions, and the challenges she overcame.
Begin your day by visiting the Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as La Casa Azul (The Blue House). Located in the charming Coyoacan neighborhood, the museum is housed within Kahlo’s former residence. This intimate home has been transformed into a museum celebrating her life and artistic contributions. It’s a relatively small museum, but profoundly impactful. You’ll see many of her celebrated paintings alongside personal artifacts, offering a deeply personal perspective. The museum’s garden is also a serene oasis, well worth exploring.
To ensure entry and avoid queues, purchase your tickets online and in advance.
After the museum, take time to explore the Coyoacan neighborhood itself, one of Mexico City’s oldest and most historically significant districts. Coyoacan offers a distinct atmosphere compared to Roma Norte and Condesa. It feels more traditional, characterized by its colonial-era architecture and charming cobblestone streets. Coyoacan also offers a delightful array of unique shops, inviting cafes, and traditional restaurants. While in Coyoacan, be sure to indulge in a classic Mexican dessert, such as churros con chocolate – a perfect sweet treat.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Centro Historico, Mexico City’s historic heart. This is one of the largest and best-preserved historic centers in the Americas, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Centro Historico is a treasure trove of colonial-style buildings, grand plazas, and magnificent churches. It’s also home to some of my favorite museums in Mexico City, including the Palacio de Bellas Artes.
If you only have time for one museum in the Centro Historico, my strongest recommendation is the Museo Nacional de Antropologia (National Museum of Anthropology). This is the most visited museum in CDMX, and for good reason. The museum is vast and houses an extraordinary collection of pre-Hispanic Mexican artifacts, offering a comprehensive journey through the country’s ancient civilizations. A personal highlight is the Aztec Temple ruins, Templo Mayor, located adjacent to the museum, providing a tangible link to Mexico-Tenochtitlan, the ancient Aztec capital. Inside, you can also marvel at the iconic “Sun Stone,” one of the most celebrated Aztec artifacts globally.
If the Museo Nacional de Antropologia isn’t your preference, consider the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts), widely regarded as the most beautiful building in Mexico City. This architectural masterpiece, built in Art Deco and Neoclassical styles, houses a theater, an opera house, and several art galleries. It also features a captivating mural by Diego Rivera, depicting Mexican history from the Aztec civilization to the 20th century.
Both museums are centrally located within the Centro Historico, making it feasible to visit both in a single day if you’re keen.
If time allows before dinner, wander through the Zocalo, Mexico City’s main central square. This vast plaza is one of the largest city squares in the world and is surrounded by some of the city’s most important landmarks, including the imposing Metropolitan Cathedral and the Palacio Nacional (National Palace). The Zocalo is also a fantastic spot for people-watching and absorbing the vibrant atmosphere of Mexico City.
Cap off your second day with an authentic Mexican dinner. While Mexico City boasts world-class, upscale restaurants, sometimes nothing beats the simple pleasure of a delicious street taco. Venture to one of the many taquerias scattered throughout the city for affordable and incredibly flavorful tacos. I recommend trying Taqueria Los Cocuyos nearby – a local gem famously endorsed by Anthony Bourdain on his show, No Reservations.
Day Three in Mexico City: Teotihuacan Pyramids & Cultural Souvenirs
Prepare for an early start on your final day in Mexico City, as we’re going to make it truly unforgettable! And by unforgettable, I mean a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan! This is an absolute bucket-list experience.
Teotihuacan is an ancient Mesoamerican city, once one of the largest urban centers in the world. It’s home to some of Mexico’s most monumental pyramids, including the awe-inspiring Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. This archaeological site is truly remarkable and absolutely deserves a visit.
Your hot air balloon adventure will take place at sunrise, so an early wake-up call is essential! The flight itself lasts about an hour and is utterly magical. You’ll be treated to unparalleled panoramic views of the pyramids and the surrounding valley bathed in the golden light of dawn. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after your trip. Teotihuacan is located approximately an hour outside of Mexico City, but organized tours typically include hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it seamless.
Check availability for hot air ballooning experiences below:
After your hot air balloon ride, you’ll have time to explore Teotihuacan on the ground. I highly recommend climbing to the summit of the Pyramid of the Sun. It’s a challenging climb, but the breathtaking views from the top are your reward. You can also visit the Museo de Teotihuacan, located near the site, which offers insightful exhibits on the history and culture of this ancient city.
Once back in Mexico City, head to Mercado De Artesanias La Ciudadela (La Ciudadela Market). This sprawling handicraft market is a treasure trove of Mexican artistry, offering everything from traditional textiles and vibrant pottery to hand-carved wooden figures and intricate silver jewelry. It’s the perfect place to find unique souvenirs for friends and family back home, or a special memento for yourself. I personally love the traditional Mexican woven bags – they make stylish and practical beach bags if you’re planning a trip to Cancun or Puerto Vallarta next!
I realize we’ve packed a lot into three days, but if you have a little extra time, my final recommendation is a short 5-minute walk to the Museo Mural Diego Rivera.
This small but fascinating museum is dedicated to the iconic Mexican muralist Diego Rivera. The museum is situated in the building that once housed Rivera’s studio and displays some of his original paintings and sketches, providing insight into his creative process. It also houses one of his most iconic murals, Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Central), a powerful representation of Mexican history and society, and an absolute must-see for art enthusiasts.
After visiting the Museo Mural Diego Rivera, conclude your day, and your Mexico City adventure, with one last delicious Mexican meal. Celebrate your incredible trip with some refreshing, freshly made margaritas!
I sincerely hope you’ve enjoyed your three days exploring Mexico City! There is truly an endless amount to discover in this incredible city, and I hope this itinerary has given you a fantastic taste of what it has to offer.
Essential Mexico City Travel Tips
Water Wisdom: Under no circumstances should you drink tap water in Mexico City. Mexico City is known for its water quality issues, so it’s crucial to drink only bottled water. Bottled water is readily available and very inexpensive throughout the city.
City Size Awareness: Remember that Mexico City is enormous. While this 3-day guide is geographically focused, planning your routes and allowing ample travel time between locations is essential. 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: Recommended Neighborhoods & Hotels
Mexico City is huge. In fact, it’s the largest city in North America, so choosing the right area to stay can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, having spent considerable time in the city, I can recommend some excellent locations.
For neighborhoods, I suggest considering Condesa, Roma Norte, or Coyoacan. These are all fantastic areas with a wide array of restaurants, bars, and cafes to keep you entertained. They are also relatively centrally located, providing convenient access to other parts of the city. In recent years, these neighborhoods have undergone revitalization and are now considered some of the most desirable places to stay in Mexico City.
My favorite boutique hotel in Mexico City is Mansión Papilio. This charming bed and breakfast is located in Coyoacan, making it ideally situated for this 3-day itinerary. It’s also absolutely gorgeous. Mansión Papilio instantly transports you back to the elegance of the 1920s, making you feel wonderfully glamorous. Each room is uniquely and beautifully decorated and notably spacious, a welcome feature in Mexico City.
The garden is a tranquil haven, my favorite spot to enjoy a morning coffee while watching peacocks stroll through the property – a truly unique and delightful experience. The staff at Mansión Papilio are exceptional and dedicated to ensuring you have the best possible trip. I can’t recommend this boutique hotel highly enough. And if you visit in the summer, they have a lovely pool to escape the Mexican heat.
Best Time to Visit Mexico City: Weather & Festivals
The most pleasant times to visit Mexico City are during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers can be intensely hot and humid, potentially making outdoor exploration less enjoyable. Winters can be cool and occasionally wet. However, even during the warmer summer months, the city retains its beauty, and there are always indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy.
Another factor to consider when planning your visit is Mexico City’s vibrant festival calendar. Mexico City is renowned for its incredible array of fiestas and cultural events, with something exciting happening year-round!
My personal favorite time to be in Mexico City is during Dia De los Muertos (Day of the Dead), which takes place from October 31st to November 2nd. Day of the Dead is a deeply meaningful traditional Mexican holiday celebrating deceased loved ones, and experiencing it in Mexico City is truly extraordinary. The city transforms with vibrant decorations, elaborate altars, processions, and festivities 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 remarkably affordable and efficient way to travel throughout the city. A single ride costs a mere 5 pesos, equivalent to about 25 U.S. cents! While the Metro can become crowded during peak hours, it remains the fastest and most budget-friendly way to get around.
Ride-sharing services like Uber are increasingly popular in Mexico City. Uber is a convenient alternative if you prefer not to use the Metro or want door-to-door service. It’s also generally very affordable.
My personal favorite way to explore Mexico City is on foot! Mexico City is surprisingly walkable, and walking allows you to truly immerse yourself in the city’s atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way. Plus, you never know what unexpected delights you might encounter while exploring on foot!
Staying Safe in Mexico City: Safety Tips for Travelers
Mexico City is a vast metropolis, and like any major city, some areas can be less safe than others. It’s always wise to exercise common sense when traveling – avoid displaying valuables ostentatiously and refrain from walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.
However, I want to emphasize that I, personally, have never felt unsafe in Mexico City. In fact, I’ve found the locals to be incredibly welcoming and helpful, and I’ve always felt comfortable exploring the city.
As in any large city, be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded places like the Metro and busy markets. Keep your valuables secure and consider carrying a photocopy of your passport as a precaution in case of loss.
One important safety consideration for Mexico City is its location in a seismically active zone. It’s wise to be aware of this and familiarize yourself with basic earthquake safety procedures. Unlike myself, who grew up in an earthquake-free region, and had to quickly Google “what to do in an earthquake” during my first tremor while my hotel room shook!
Beyond this, I consider Mexico City a very safe destination for travelers, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to friends and fellow explorers!
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 exceptional cuisine and captivating culture to stunning architecture and rich history. If you’re seeking an unforgettable travel experience, Mexico City is the perfect choice.
Come and discover its wonders before everyone else does!
