Curated 3 Days in Mexico City Itinerary: Top Things to Do

This is your ultimate 3-day Mexico City itinerary—curated to help you plan the perfect stay.

Mexico City quickly climbed to the top of my list of favorite Latin American cities—actually, I’d say it’s one of my favorite cities in the world, one I’ve been lucky enough to spend a lot of time in. It’s alive with energy, a mix of modern and neoclassical architecture, world-class museums, and an incredible food and cocktail scene.

Three days isn’t quite enough to see it all, but it’s plenty to get a real feel for the city’s vibe.

Wandering through Roma Norte and La Condesa, you’ll find beautifully restored buildings, leafy streets, and some of the best restaurants and cafés in town. The historic center offers a deeper dive into Mexico’s past, while sleek, modern Polanco is perfect for high-end shopping and contemporary art.

And if that’s not enough, there’s no shortage of parks and major landmarks to explore—Templo Mayor, Chapultepec Park, and, of course, Teotihuacan, the awe-inspiring UNESCO-listed pre-Hispanic city just outside the capital.

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Getting to Mexico City

Air: Most international flights will land at the Mexico City International Airport, which is located fairly close to the center of Mexico City. There are direct flights from most major North American cities as well as direct flights from most larger European cities.

From the airport, an Uber or a local, licensed taxi is the best way to get to your hotel. You can also organise a private transfer through your hotel or by using my favorite airport pick-up service, Welcome Pickups.

Bus: Mexico City has four different bus stations, and which one you arrive at will depend on where you’re coming from. The four bus stations adhere to the cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west) and serve destinations going in that general direction.

Terminal Central del Norte is the most popular option and serves Teotihuacan, Jalisco, Baja California, Nayarit, Queretero and San Luis Potosi, and all the northern states. If you’re coming from Oaxaca, Campeche, Chiapas, or Puebla you’ll most probably arrive at Terminal Central del Sur.

Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente (TAPO) or La Tapo serves eastern destinations like Yucatan, Quintana Roo, Campeche, Oaxaca, and Terminal Centro del Poniente serves Jalisco, Guerrero, Michoacan, Nayarit, Mexico State, Sonora etc.

Note that the bus terminals do overlap, so if you’re coming from Oaxaca for example you could arrive at La Tapo or Terminal Central del Sur. Make sure to check your ticket or ask the driver about which station you’ll arrive at in Mexico City.

From whatever bus station you arrive at, the best option is to get an Uber. It’s affordable, fast, and safe. You’ll also see lots of taxi drivers around that will offer you a ride, but I always stick with Uber.

Read more: The Best Time to Travel to Mexico City: A Traveller’s Guide

Getting Around Mexico City

Uber – Uber is your best friend when in Mexico City. It’s fast, safe, and generally the cheaper option outside of peak times. During my 3 days in Mexico City, I just used Uber to get from one neighbourhood or district to another, and I definitely walked a lot when exploring the neighbourhoods themselves.

Public Transportation – As with most world capitals, Mexico City has a vast system consisting of the metro and buses. Mexico City does have an extensive metro, which is fairly fast and efficient to use, but it does get extremely crowded.

Metro, however, is one of the best options during rush hour or for trips around the city if you’re on a budget.

To use the metero, you can either buy a paper ticket at the ticket booth or a Metro Card, which you can top up with pesos and use as you go. Metro Cards are available at ticket booths or taquillas for 10 pesos. For buses, you can only use Metro Cards.

If you’re in Mexico City for just 3 days then I don’t recommend wasting too much time on trying to work out the bus routes.

Walking – We did so much walking during our time in Mexico City. Walking is one of the best ways to get around neighbourhoods. It’s fairly fast, and you can explore and discover different places as you go. It’s also a really good way to walk off all that amazing food you’ll be eating.

Where to Stay in Mexico City

I have a whole other guide for where to stay in Mexico City, so I’ll keep this chapter short. For ease of moving around the city, I highly recommend staying in Juarez, Roma Norte, La Condesa, or Polanco.

Either one of these neighbourhoods is close to many of the top sights to see in Mexico City, keeping travel to a minimum.

In these neighbourhoods, you’ll also find some of the best restaurants and bars, as well as cafes perfect for brunch and breakfast. They are also the safest neighbourhoods to stay in. Here are some of the best hotels in CDMX.

Casa Emilia – Easily one of the best boutique stays in the whole city, Casa Emilia is a gorgeous 6-suite hotel in the most beautiful modern mansion.

Surrounded by lush, green foliage, a fountain in the ‘living room’ style common area and beautifully decorated rooms, this is one of the best options in the city for couples. They also have a beautiful roof terrace, perfect for early morning journalling or meditation while listening to the city wake up. Rates include a delicious breakfast too.

La Valise, Mexico City – Located around the corner from Plaza Cibeles- one of the trendiest corners of Roma Norte, this unique hotel is housed in a converted colonial mansion.

You’ll find some seriously swoon-worthy suites here with unique design, decor and furniture. The space truly encompasses the beauty of Mexico City from decades ago. You can even request room service from Rosetta- arguably one of Mexico City’s best restaurants and pull the bed outside onto the terrace to enjoy the city from outside!

Octavia Casa – Relaxing earth tones, clean lines, and well-lit, Octavia Casa is a gorgeous boutique hotel that’s a feast for the eyes. Located in a quiet part of La Condesa, yet close enough to all the action, a stay at Octavia Casa allows for true rest and relaxation during your stay. With all the mod-cons included, including breakfast and great coffee it makes a superb base for a few days.

Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City – an oasis of luxury in the heart of Paseo de la Reforma, offering elegant suites, a lush courtyard, and world-class dining, all wrapped in impeccable service.

Read more: Where to Stay in Mexico City: The Best Areas & Hotels

For more hotel options check the box below:

Where to Eat in Mexico City

There are so many amazing places to eat in Mexico City that appeal to all tastes, budgets, and lifestyles. Mexico City truly is a culinary destination, and no 3 days in Mexico City itinerary can begin to even include them all.

From sophisticated brunch cafes to Michelin-star restaurants, here are just a few suggestions of places you can’t miss.

Restaurants in Mexico City

Rosetta – Helmed by chef Elena Reygadas, Rosetta is one of Mexico City’s most celebrated restaurants, earning praise from locals and critics alike for its refined, ingredient-driven cuisine. Securing a reservation takes effort, but it’s well worth it. Just around the corner, Panadería Rosetta, the restaurant’s beloved bakery, is the perfect spot for a morning coffee and a flaky croissant in a charming, sun-drenched setting.

Quintonil – One of Mexico City’s finest restaurants, Quintonil, led by chef Jorge Vallejo, showcases contemporary Mexican cuisine with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Tasting menus here are a deep dive into the country’s flavors, executed with precision and creativity. Reservations are a must.

Contramar – A legendary seafood spot where long lunches stretch into the afternoon. The tuna tostadas and pescado a la talla are non-negotiable orders, best enjoyed with a crisp glass of white wine. Expect a lively atmosphere and a well-heeled crowd.

Tacos Hola El Güero – A tiny, no-frills taquería in Condesa that specializes in guisados—slow-cooked stews ladled into fresh tortillas. From chicharrón in salsa verde to rajas con crema, each bite is packed with home-cooked flavor.

Hugo – A stylish, all-day eatery from chef Elena Reygadas, Hugo blends Mexican flavors with European influences. Think flaky pastries in the morning, vibrant salads at lunch, and wood-fired dishes by night, all in an effortlessly cool setting.

Lardo – Another of Elena Reygadas’ gems, Lardo is a casual, sunlit space where Mediterranean flavors meet Mexican ingredients. Housemade pastas, charred vegetables, and excellent wood-fired bread make it one of the city’s best all-day dining spots.

Mi Compa Chava – A seafood haven in Roma Norte, Mi Compa Chava serves up Sinaloa-style mariscos with a side of fun. The aguachiles, seafood tostadas, and massive micheladas make this one of the liveliest places to eat in town.

Expendio de Maíz Sin Nombre – A wholly unique dining experience, this open-kitchen spot has no menu—just a daily selection of corn-focused dishes prepared with heirloom varieties and served when ready. A must for those serious about Mexico’s culinary traditions.

Taquería Orinoco – A cult-favorite for late-night tacos, Orinoco serves Northern-style carne asada, trompo, and chicharrón tacos that are consistently excellent. Don’t skip the signature flour tortillas or the addictive salsas.

Best Cafes/Coffee in Mexico City

Quintín Café – A cozy spot in Polanco with a strong focus on high-quality coffee and fresh pastries. Whether you’re here for a quiet morning espresso or a long brunch, the warm atmosphere and excellent service make it a favorite.

Raku Café – A minimalist Japanese-inspired café in Roma Norte that takes coffee seriously. The pour-over here is exceptional, as are the delicate matcha-based drinks. A peaceful retreat for those who appreciate precision in their cup.

Café Tormenta – A specialty coffee shop with a moody, intimate vibe, Café Tormenta is known for its expertly brewed espresso and commitment to sourcing beans from top Mexican producers. Perfect for a quiet, caffeine-fueled pause.

Blend Station – A bright, creative space in Condesa that draws remote workers, coffee aficionados, and casual café-goers alike. The cold brew is a standout, and the food menu is solid for an easy breakfast or light lunch.

Café Nin – Another Elena Reygadas gem, Café Nin is a chic, Parisian-style café where excellent coffee meets fresh-baked pastries and elegant breakfast plates. The croissants and conchas are some of the best in town.

El Minutito – A tiny, hole-in-the-wall café that’s all about quality over frills. Expect strong espresso, smooth cappuccinos, and a few simple but well-made baked goods. A great grab-and-go spot if you’re in a hurry but still want a proper coffee.

3 Day Mexico City Itinerary

I decided to craft this itinerary for Mexico City around exploring one neighborhood per day instead of crisscrossing the sprawling city. Mexico City is massive, and its notorious traffic—especially during morning and evening rush hours—can really cut into your adventure.

Focusing on a single area each day lets you truly immerse yourself in its unique character while saving time and money on rides. These neighborhoods are wonderfully walkable, offering a more relaxed way to experience the city’s beauty without the constant battle against traffic delays.

Keep in mind that this itinerary is quite packed—three days barely scratch the surface. If you’d prefer a slower pace, feel free to pick and choose the spots that resonate with you the most.

This itinerary is also designed for first-time visitors to the city and takes into account more of the obvious things to do.

3 Days in Mexico City Itinerary Summary

Mexico City Travel Itinerary- Day One

Mexico City’s Historic Center

Kick off day one of this Mexico City 3 Day itinerary in the historic center, the heart of the city’s past and present. Like most Latin American capitals, Mexico City’s main square is home to its grand cathedral and key government buildings.

Plaza de la Constitución—better known as the Zócalo—is one of the largest public squares in the world, framed by impressive neoclassical structures. Here, you’ll find the Metropolitan Cathedral, a stunning mix of baroque and neoclassical architecture, as well as the Palacio Nacional, a historic government palace that has long been the seat of power in Mexico.

Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral

After soaking in the vastness of the Zócalo, step inside the Metropolitan Cathedral, one of Mexico’s most stunning and architecturally rich churches. Take a moment to look closely—you’ll notice that it leans slightly to one side.

Built on what was once an ancient lakebed, Mexico City’s foundations are anything but stable. Centuries of seismic activity and soft, marshy ground have caused the cathedral to gradually tilt over time—a slow but undeniable shift that continues year after year.

Zocalo Area

Next, take some time to wander the surrounding streets—this part of the city is packed with historic buildings, museums, and a mix of local and international shops. If you’re in the mood for culture, there’s no shortage of places to explore.

Art lovers should head to Museo Nacional de Arte (MUNAL) for an impressive collection of Mexican art, while Museo de Estanquillo offers a more eclectic mix of exhibits. The Palacio de la Cultura Citibanamex is another architectural gem worth a visit. For sweeping city views, take the elevator up Torre Latinoamericana, one of Mexico City’s most iconic skyscrapers.

Don’t miss the Palacio Postal, an opulent, gilded post office that feels more like a palace, or the Museo Franz Mayer, a beautiful museum dedicated to decorative arts with a charming courtyard perfect for a quiet break.

Prefer to visit Downtown with a guide? Opt for this Historic Downtown Walking Tour instead of doing it alone.

Casa de Los Azulejos ( House of Tiles)

Make your way to the Casa de los Azulejos (House of Tiles), a breathtaking 18th-century palace adorned with intricate blue and white tiles. Once a residence for Mexico’s elite, this neoclassical gem stands out as one of the city’s most beautiful landmarks.

While the façade is stunning, don’t just admire it from the outside—step inside for a coffee at the historic café. Served in delicate blue and white porcelain, your coffee comes with a side of old-world charm in one of the most elegant settings in Mexico City. It’s a must-visit spot.

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Right next to the Casa de Los Azulejos, you’ll find the monumental structure of the Palacio de Bellas Artes, a building that’s simply unmissable from this itinerary for Mexico City.

With its squat, marble structure and intricate neo-classical design, this is one of the most noteworthy buildings in Mexico City. The building was built to house Mexico’s fine arts, and that’s still what it’s used for today.

Inside, you’ll find works by notable Mexican artists and murals by Diego Rivera. The palace is also used as a theatre where you can catch a classical play like Don Quijote if you speak Spanish.

If you are a big Diego Rivera fan, then make sure to also visit the Museo Mural Diego Rivera located just on the other side of Alameda Central Park.

Note that Palacio de Bellas Artes is closed on Mondays, like most museums in Mexico.

Tip: For a better view of the whole Palacio de Bellas Artes, go to the top floor of the Sears department store opposite the building. There is a cafe on the top floor where you can order a coffee, relax on the open terrace, and have the best views of the building.

If you’re looking for something to eat, there aren’t too many great options in this area but you can walk down to Mercado de San Juan for a local market experience and a bite to eat.

Another option is Mexico City’s Chinatown, which is just a few blocks away if you’re craving something different to Mexican food. For tacos, head to Tacos el Huequito for classic al pastor tacos.

Museo Frida Kahlo

In the afternoon, jump in an Uber and head to the Frida Kahlo Museum, otherwise known as the Blue House, one of the best museums in the world dedicated to the late Mexican artist.

There are no tickets available to purchase at the museum- you need to buy your tickets ahead of time online and select the time of your visit. You can buy tickets online here. Make sure to do this a good few weeks ahead of your trip to CDMX.

A visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum, or La Casa Azul, offers an intimate look into the life and evolution of one of Mexico’s most iconic artists. This is where Frida spent most of her life, and as you explore her studio, living spaces, and lush garden, you’ll get a deeper sense of the world that shaped her art.

The museum showcases her personal belongings, original works, and insights into her influences—particularly her complex relationship with Diego Rivera and the social movements of her time.

Though it’s a bit removed from the city’s main sights, La Casa Azul is one of Mexico City’s most captivating museums and absolutely worth the trip out to Coyoacán, which is a brilliant neighborhood to explore as a stand-alone.

Coyoacán

Coyoacán is one of Mexico City’s most charming and historic neighborhoods, offering a slower pace, cobblestone streets, and a bohemian vibe that feels worlds away from the city’s busy downtown. Once home to artists, intellectuals, and revolutionaries, today, it’s a vibrant cultural hub filled with leafy plazas, colorful colonial buildings, and lively markets.

After a visit to Frida Khalo’s House, visit Plaza Hidalgo and Jardín Centenario, the heart of Coyoacán, where you’ll find street performers, local vendors, and plenty of cafés perfect for people-watching.

For a taste of local flavors, head to the Mercado de Coyoacán, where you can try tostadas, churros, and aguas frescas. If you’re up for a cultural stop, visit the San Juan Bautista Church, a stunning 16th-century church with intricate baroque details. Wandering through Coyoacán’s tree-lined streets, popping into independent bookstores, or simply soaking in the neighborhood’s artsy, relaxed atmosphere is all part of the experience.

Prefer to combine the Frida Khalo Museum and Coyoacan with Xochimilco? Sign up for this Xochimilco, Coyoacán & Frida Kahlo Museum tour.

Mexico City Itinerary – Day Two

Juarez, Roma Norte and Condesa

Today is all about discovering three of Mexico City’s most vibrant and stylish neighborhoods. Roma Norte and La Condesa, in particular, quickly became my favorite places to wander, eat, and soak up the city’s creative energy.

Here, you’ll find the best cafes and restaurants, boutiques, conceptual art spaces, and beautiful leafy public squares and streets. The best thing to do in these areas is simply to walk around and explore.

Angel de la Independencia

Start your day at Mexico City’s most iconic roundabout and monument, the Angel of Independence. As the name suggests, this little golden angel sitting on top of a tall column is the city’s monument to independence and peace.

The monument sits in the center of an extremely busy city roundabout on Avenida Reforma- the main Avenue in this part of town. To get close to the Angel, you’ll have to navigate through quite a bit of traffic. One block away, you’ll also find the iconic statue of Diana Casadora.

Parque Mexico and Avenida Amsterdam

For one of the most picturesque streets in Mexico City, make your way to Avenida Amsterdam, a circular road that wraps around Parque México.

Lush, peaceful, and lined with charming cafés, restaurants, and boutiques, this tree-shaded avenue feels like a little escape from the city’s hustle. A narrow, landscaped park runs through the center, drawing joggers, dog walkers, and travelers looking to soak in the neighborhood’s relaxed vibe.

The architecture is an eclectic mix—well-preserved historic buildings with elegant balconies sit alongside sleek, modern apartment suites, creating a unique blend of old and new.

Mexico Park is another great place for a stroll. Here you’ll find all of Mexico City’s professional dog walkers and people taking a break from their day. It’s a great place to people or dog watch and just relax on a shaded park bench.

Roma Norte

Spend the rest of the morning and early afternoon simply wandering Roma Norte—one of those neighborhoods where every corner reveals something interesting, whether it’s an independent boutique, a stylish café, or a hidden gallery. There’s no shortage of local businesses worth supporting, especially if you’re hunting for a cool, one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home.

I could have easily spent days just exploring Roma and Condesa, and I’m pretty sure you’ll feel the same.

For lunch, book a table at Rosetta, where chef Elena Reygadas crafts elegant, seasonal dishes in a beautiful old townhouse. If you’re after something more casual, grab a bite at Lardo, where wood-fired flavors and housemade pastas steal the show.

Seafood lovers should make their way to Contramar for legendary tuna tostadas and pescado a la talla, while taco aficionados can’t go wrong with Tacos Hola El Güero for guisados or Taquería Orinoco for northern-style tacos done right.

After lunch, make time to explore La Laguna Cultural Center, a former industrial warehouse turned creative hub, now home to some of the city’s most exciting design studios, galleries, and artisan workshops. It’s the perfect place to discover Mexico City’s contemporary creative scene and maybe even pick up a beautifully crafted piece to take home.

Here are some other noteworthy places we found while exploring Roma Norte, I highly recommend checking out:

Cafes:

• Raku Cafe – minimalist cafe with Japanese aesthetic. Great coffee and simple Japanese inspired dishes
• La Esquina del Te– An amazing tea shop in the city- perfect if you’re not a coffee drinker.
• La Ventanita– cafe with lovel terrace on Fuente de Cibeles
• Casa Bruna – Eco-store & cafe, great place to buy Mexican coffee, dried chilli and other dried snacks plastic free.
• Quentin– Amazing coffee and great vibe

Wellness:

• Qi Yoga & Wellness Center– On Av Amsterdam, a great place for wellness treatments and yoga in the city. Great store too to stock up on essential oils etc
• Koti Wellness – a serene, Scandinavian-inspired wellness space offering float therapy, sauna sessions, and holistic treatments for a relaxing escape in the heart of Mexico City.

Bosque de Chapultepec & Castillo de Chapultepec

Spend the afternoon exploring Bosque de Chapultepec, one of the biggest city parks in the world. There are so many things to see here that you won’t have time for everything but it’s still worth coming to walk around, enjoy nature and people watch.

One of the top places in the park you don’t want to miss is Castillo de Chapultepec, a hilltop castle with great views of the city. Here you can wander about the spacious gardens and premises, take in the views from above and explore the National Museum of History which is housed inside.

Due to its size, I’d highly recommend renting some bicycles or scooters for Bosque de Chapultepec as you’ll be able to cover much more ground, and it’s a fun experience. You can rent an Ecobici, one of the city’s public bikes, to zip around on at any point in your itinerary.

Here’s a map of rental locations around Bosque de Chapultepec. You’ll need to bring a form of photo ID to rent the bikes.

Casa Estudio Luis Barragán

Casa Estudio Luis Barragán is a masterpiece of modern Mexican architecture and a must-visit for design lovers. The former home and studio of renowned architect Luis Barragán, this UNESCO-listed site is a stunning example of his signature use of color, light, and space.

Located in the Tacubaya neighborhood, the house blends minimalist design with vibrant hues, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and deeply reflective.

Guided tours take you through the carefully curated interiors, showcasing Barragán’s furniture, art collection, and the seamless interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces. With its striking pink walls, serene gardens, and masterful use of natural light, Casa Estudio is an essential stop for anyone interested in Mexico’s rich architectural heritage.

Reservations are required, so be sure to book in advance- and in advance, I mean at least a month in advance, as it’s that popular.

Mexico City Itinerary – Day Three

Polanco/Chapultepec

For your final day in Mexico City, head to Polanco, Mexico’s most upscale neighbourhood, and the northern parts of Chapultepec for more of Mexico City’s finest museums, neighbourhoods, and outdoor areas.

Museo Soumaya

For the most complete modern art museum in Mexico, head to the Museo Soumaya. With its shiny, polished, hexagonal architecture, this building is one of the most modern buildings to be recently added to the Mexico City skyline.

Funded by the Carlos Slim Foundation this free museum aims to give everyone access to art.

From medieval European work to Impressionism and replicas of many of Rodin’s sculptures, this large museum is full of both local and international art and is one of the biggest collections in Mexico.

The museum is open every day from 10.30 am-6.30 pm- one of the few open on Monday.

As an alternative, you can also head to Museo Jumex right next door if their rotating exhibitions catch your interest.

Explore Polanco

After immersing yourself in the Museo Soumaya, it’s time to explore Polanco, Mexico City’s most upscale neighborhood. Known for its luxury dining scene, high-end hotels, and tree-lined avenues, Polanco exudes a refined yet inviting charm.

Take your time strolling through its picturesque streets. Start with a walk along Avenida Horacio, then meander through Parque América before making your way south toward Avenida Presidente Masaryk, the city’s premier shopping street. If time allows, pop into some of my favorite Mexican designer stores like Xinu and Sandra Weil.

Continue down toward the National Museum of Anthropology, passing an array of charming cafés, juice bars, and boutiques along the way—perfect for a quick stop or a leisurely break.

Museum of Anthropology

Another of Mexico City’s standout museums, the Anthropology Museum is an absolute must for history and culture lovers. Home to the world’s largest collection of ancient Mexican art, it offers a deep dive into the country’s indigenous past and present through a fascinating array of ethnographic exhibits.

Among its most famous pieces is the Sun Stone, or Aztec Calendar, a massive carved stone used by the Aztecs to track time. You’ll also find a stunning recreation of Pakal’s tomb, dedicated to the ancient Mayan ruler, along with an intricate jade mask that showcases the artistry of Mesoamerican civilizations.

Like most museums in Mexico City, it’s closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.

Explore Condesa

While you may have already wandered into La Condesa while exploring Roma Norte, this charming neighborhood deserves more time. The two areas blend seamlessly, complementing each other with their leafy streets, Art Deco architecture, and effortlessly cool atmosphere. Condesa offers a perfect mix of lush parks, stylish boutique hotels, and some of the city’s best cafés and restaurants—if you loved Roma, you’ll love Condesa too.

As you explore, make a stop at Parque España, a peaceful green space surrounded by elegant townhouses and buzzing cafés. Right across from it, you’ll find Hotel Condesa DF, a stunning neoclassical building with a stylish rooftop and a lovely café—perfect for a coffee break.

If you’re up for a cultural stop, check out the Casa del Lago in Chapultepec Park, a historic mansion turned cultural center that often hosts art exhibitions and performances. And for a taste of Condesa’s vibrant dining scene, grab a seat at Lardo, Blend Station, or one of the neighborhood’s many cozy cafés and wine bars.

Extra Day Trip

If you can stretch your trip for one more day, I highly recommend you do. Mexico City is an extraordinary city, and there are so many things to see, from archaeological sites and cultural monuments to modern neighbourhoods.

Teotihuacan Ruins

If you have an extra day in your Mexico City itinerary, a visit to Teotihuacan is an absolute must. Just outside the city, this sprawling archaeological site is one of Mexico’s most significant pre-Hispanic landmarks. Though often associated with the Aztecs, Teotihuacan predates them by centuries and was once one of the largest cities in the ancient world, home to an estimated 250,000 people at its peak.

Upon arrival, take a walk down the Avenida de los Muertos, the main thoroughfare that leads to Teotihuacan’s most striking landmarks—the towering Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Climbing these pyramids offers breathtaking views of the ancient city and the surrounding landscape. Beyond the pyramids, you’ll find intricate carvings, temples, and murals that provide insight into the artistic and religious practices of Teotihuacan’s original inhabitants.

You can explore the site on your own, but hiring a local guide at the entrance will give you a deeper understanding of its history, mythology, and significance.

Getting to Teotihuacan takes some planning, as it’s located about 50 kilometers from Mexico City. The most budget-friendly option is by bus: take Metro Line 5 (yellow) or an Uber to Autobuses del Norte, where you’ll find buses heading directly to the pyramids. The bus station is conveniently located next to the metro exit, making the transfer easy.

If you prefer a faster and more comfortable ride, you can take a taxi or Uber straight to the site, though this option is more expensive.

For a hassle-free experience, booking a guided tour from Mexico City is another great option, often including transportation, an expert guide, and even a stop at a local artisan workshop or a traditional pulque tasting. Here are some of the best tour options available:

Xochimilco

A visit to Xochimilco offers a completely different side of Mexico City—one filled with vibrant colors, lively music, and a taste of the city’s ancient past.

Known for its network of canals, a remnant of the lake system that once covered the Valley of Mexico, Xochimilco is best explored aboard a trajinera, the traditional wooden boats painted in bright hues. As you drift along the waterways, you’ll pass floating gardens, vendors selling tacos and micheladas, and mariachi bands serenading passing boats.

While it’s a festive and social experience, Xochimilco also has a deeper history, with its chinampas—artificial islands built by the Aztecs—still in use today. It’s best to visit on weekends when the atmosphere is at its liveliest, but for a quieter experience, a weekday morning cruise is a great alternative.

Top Tips for your Mexico City itinerary

• Try not to visit Mexico City on Monday. Many museums are closed during this time and generally, there isn’t too much to do or life on the streets. If you do happen to be in town on Monday, make sure to rearrange this Mexico City itinerary so that day two falls on Monday.

• Credit and debit cards are used widely in Mexico City and are sometimes preferred. Apple Pay is also accepted in many small and large businesses, so you don’t need to carry large amounts of cash.

• Be prepared to walk a lot. Most travelers I speak to who’ve been to CDMX often tell me they’ve never walked more in their lives. It’s true. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so bring comfortable shoes.

• Try not to travel too far during rush hour. Mexico City’s traffic is terrible, so it’s best to just avoid trying to get somewhere during rush hour. Try to time your day so that during these times, you’re already at your destination or you’re getting around on foot. 

• When traveling in Mexico City in summer, make sure to bring sunscreen, a large, reusable water bottle, an umbrella, and comfortable clothing.

• When travelling in winter, Mexico City can get a bit cold, especially at night, so you’ll need long pants and a good jacket.

Safety in Mexico City – Is Mexico City Safe?

In general, I find Mexico City to be a safe city like any other. I have never have any problems when walking around and exploring. Few visitors have issues when staying in the main, central neighbourhoods.

One thing that I was advised against, however, was walking around the Zocalo (Historic Center) at night. While it’s fine to walk around during the day, you should probably avoid walking around this area at night and instead use Uber when coming and going to places in Zocalo. For this reason, I also don’t recommend staying in the Zocolo when you’re more likely to be moving around after dark.

As with every major city in the world, make sure to use common sense, exercise caution, and don’t leave your belongings unattended. Be more cautious in the historic center. 

Are you ready to dive into this Mexico City itinerary? Let me know all your questions and comments below.

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