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Hello and welcome to my Mexico City itinerary! This in-depth guide will help you have an unforgettable trip to Mexico’s capital, also known as CDMX, introducing you to the main attractions, coolest neighbourhoods, tantalising Mexican cuisine and more.
At the time of writing, I’ve been in living in Mexico for six months. No doubt over the coming months and years (who knows long how I’ll stay?), I will enrich this Mexico City blog with even more tidbits and quirky corners of the capital as I discover them.
Update – I’ve now been here for over 2 years!
Use my 23 Mexico City travel tips during your trip!
CDMX should be on every traveller’s Mexico bucket list. I’d argue Mexico City is one of the world’s most underrated capitals. You can get immersed in hectic local markets and eat street food for pennies, explore museums rivalling those of Paris and New York, and dine from menus curated by top world chefs.
Add hipster coffee shops, leafy parks, grand castles, ancient Mesoamerican ruins and vibrant nightlife to the mix? You’ve got a city like no other.
MEXICO CITY QUICK LINKS
Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld
Copy of Lonely Planet Mexico / Mexican Spanish phrasebook
Activities: GetYourGuide
Food tours: Eatwith
Getting there: Skyscanner / Airport transfer
Travel insurance: True Traveller (European travellers) / Hey Mundo (other nationalities) / Safety Wing (digital nomads)
Is 5 days in Mexico City enough?
You may be wondering how many days are enough for Mexico City. In my opinion, you could spend way longer BUT five days in Mexico City is enough to explore the main neighbourhoods and take an iconic day trip that most travellers won’t want to miss.
With less than 5 days, you’ll have to skip a few incredible areas of the city and that would be a shame!
Mexico City itinerary for 5 days
During this guide, we’re going to explore pretty neighbourhoods Roma and Condesa, big and busy Centro (the UNESCO historic centre), charming Coyoacan once home to artist Frida Kahlo, sleepy San Angel neighbourhood, Xochimilco (canal networks accessed by colourful boats), enormous Chapultepec Park and upmarket Polanco.
I’ll share the must-visit attractions and travel tips for each area as we go. Since I’m a huge foodie, you’re going to be spoiled with eating recs!
We’ll explore the following areas during this Mexico City itinerary…
Read next: a complete guide to solo travel in Mexico City
Where to stay during 5 days in Mexico City
There are cities where you could book a hotel anywhere without it making much difference. For Mexico City, I would recommend doing a bit of quick homework.
Not only are many attractions located far from each other, but you wouldn’t want to grab a cheap room in a random area and feel unsafe.
Where to stay in Roma & Condesa
My preferred option! These neighbourhoods are near amazing restaurants and attractions, plus they’re quiet, friendly and safe for solo travel in Mexico.
For cheaper prices, you could also check out nearby residential areas like Juarez, Escandon, Tacubaya and San Miguel Chapultepec.
- Budget hotel – Hotel Benidorm is clean and conveniently located with rooms from $50.
- Mid-range – both Stanza and Block in the Roma area are 3* hotels around the $70 a night mark with gym and restaurant facilities.
- Treat – stay at La Palomilla in Condesa with rooftop balcony and fully equipped kitchen. Book from $140. Another lovely boutique Condesa hotel that will impress architecture and design fans is ULIV from $130.
- Apartments: check out Suites259 / Kukun / Deco House.
- Hostel – pick Hostel Home for a friendly base with colourful communal areas to meet other travellers. It’s on a quiet street just steps from all the cool cafes and restaurants of Calle Colima in Roma Norte. Book from $25 a night.
Where to stay in Centro
Many people stay centrally near the Zocalo but prepare for things to be very busy outside your door. If that’s not a problem, I would recommend Casa Pepe as a backpackers option. Travellers rave about this friendly base with a roof terrace – you’re likely to meet other travellers exploring Mexico. Another newer, highly-rated hostel is Viajero CDMX Centro with beds from $20.
For hotels, some decent budget options include Hotel Marlowe and One Ciudad de Mexico Alameda. To splash out, stay at Historico Central with a walking and coffee tour included! Zocalo Central is another great option with a gym and roof terrace.
Where to stay in Coyoacan
Coyoacan is also a lovely option but factor in extra time and money for taxis because it’s a little far out. Stay at Hostal Cuija Coyoacán ($24 a night) or Casa Tamayo ($62) on a budget, or treat yourself to 5* Hotel Agata Boutique & Spa ($190).
Browse all hotels on Booking.com and hostels on Hostelworld.com.
CDMX itinerary – quick overview
Day 1 – Teotihuacan (morning), Roma & Condesa (afternoon)
Day 2 – Visit Centro. Don’t miss Palacio del Bellas Artes, Templo Mayor, Casa de los Azulejos, Palacio Postal, market shopping; Lucha Libre show (evening)
Day 3 – Coyoacan & San Angel: Frida Kahlo Museum, Mercado de Coyoacan, Plaza de la Conchita.
Day 4 – Chapultepec (Museum of Anthropology, Chapultepec Castle, Museo de Arte Moderno). Head to Polanco for the afternoon (Tane Store, Soumaya Museum).
Day 5 – Xochimilco: trajinera tour.
SO, let’s get stuck in…
Day 1 Mexico City itinerary – Teotihuacan / Roma & Condesa
Start your trip right with a trip to Teotihuacan, a vast archaeological complex that will take your breath away.
Built in the year 200 AD, this enormous Mesoamerican site was the sixth-largest city in the world during its heyday. It features the enormous Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon connected to the other ruins by the dubiously named Avenue of the Dead.
You can take an organised day trip or catch a public bus the 40kms from Mexico City to Teotihuacan. For an unforgettable experience, take a Teotihuacan hot air balloon ride.
Browse Teotihuacan tours with GetYourGuide. This early morning balloon ride and breakfast tour is the ultimate bucket lister.
Other tours: if the balloon ride is out of your budget, it’s easy to visit and learn about the pyramids as part of a guided tour. These include return transport to and from the city and the services of a knowledgeable guide. Some include a stop at Guadalupe Shrine or lunch in a cave restaurant on the way home. Browse all Teotihuacan tours.
Getting there without a tour: one option is to catch the local bus from Terminal del Norte (it’s best to take an Uber here as it’s quite far from the city centre). Expect to pay around 120 pesos for the return bus to the pyramids.
Alternatively, call an Uber the whole way for around 800 pesos each way (worth it if there’s a few of you).
If you take a balloon tour, you’ll arrive back in Mexico City by 1pm. Spend the rest of the day relaxing in my favourite set of neighbourhoods…
Afternoon – Roma & Condesa
Welcome to my hood! Roma and Condesa neighbourhoods are home to countless brunch cafes, coffee shops, art galleries and parks.
Add them to your Mexico City itinerary for a leisurely afternoon after Teotihuacan.
How to get around Roma and Condesa: These areas link together and can be explored by foot. You can walk anywhere in 30 minutes, or board an ecobici bike to speed things up (download the app and buy a day or week’s pass, or pay with a Metro card).
If you’re arriving by Metro, the closest stations are: Centro Medico (exit for Roma), Chilpancingo (Roma South), Cuauhtémoc (Roma North), Patriotismo and Juanacatlán (Condesa). We’ll discuss CDMX public transport in detail later on.
Brunch or lunch
After your early start at the pyramids, you’ll likely be starving. Head to Freims in Condesa or Lalo in Roma Norte. Lalo is a hipster cafe with quirky murals on the walls and the best French toast ever. It’s always busy with shared tables so, if you’d rather a more upmarket brunch, try Lardo. The pancakes are unreal!
Alternatively, eat chilaquiles (crispy tortilla chips topped with salsa, cheese, cream and a fried egg) at pretty Ojo de Aqua or relaxed Chilpa with build-your-own bowls.
If you’re just after a quick bite and strong coffee, visit Forte cafe and sink your teeth into a citrus almond croissant.
Read next: the best coffee shops in Mexico City
Things to do in Roma & Condesa
To continue your Mexico City itinerary, take a leisurely walk around Roma and Condesa. Start at Parque Mexico where you can take homeless but loveable pups for weekend walks. From here you can wander along Amsterdam, a tree-lined walkway that was once a horse racing track.
Head over to Huerto Roma Verde, a community garden hosting everything from art exhibitions made from recycling to Hare Krishna festivals. I like the street art and sculptures as well as the pop-up cafes outside.
Roma markets
There’s so much to eat during five days in Mexico City so I’d recommend grazing little and often. Take a walk around Mercado Medellin to soak up the culture.
This colourful Colombian market is packed with piñatas, crafts, local goods, fresh fruit, veg and flowers. Sample authentic Mexican food, ice cream and local beverages.
Another food market you can check out is Mercado de Roma. It’s not exactly authentic, more of a hipster market with pop-up stands from popular Roma and Condesa cafes. Prices are inflated but it’s a good option for slowly easing yourself into the street food.
Visiting Condesa on a Friday? Be sure to visit the Friday Market which runs along Campeche. Head to Cardinal Coffee House (Campeche 346) to find it across the road. Try the blue corn quesadillas or seafood tostadas.
Galleries in Roma & Condesa
Stroll Roma Norte (Roma North) which is one of the coolest parts of Mexico City. As well as leafy Plaza Río de Janeiro with its replica of Michelangelo’s David, you can explore the art galleries and museums.
These include the Object Museum which is an exploration of ourselves through everyday items (entrance is 60 pesos) and Galleria OMR, a contemporary gallery displaying work by Mexican and international artists.
Other spots to check out include Mooni Gallery, the Salon of Mexican Fine Art, Casa Lamm and MAIA gallery inside Casa Basalta (all within walking distance in Roma Norte).
Evening options in Roma and Condesa
Dinner: Roma Norte is an atmospheric area for dinner. Check out Paramo and Tacobar for a wide range of tacos for all dietary requirements washed down with fab cocktails. Other popular spots include Contramar for seafood and famous fig tarts, Fonda Finca for upscale Mexican food, Butcher & Sons for amazing burgers and, of course, the famous Rosetta Restaurant.
Chilled drinks: Head for evening drinks at Jardín Chapultepec, a beer garden with excellent burgers and beers on tap.
Cinema: I love Cine de Tonala, an arty cinema in Roma Sur which doubles up as a hipster cafe, bar and restaurant. Cinema tickets are only 70 pesos and excellent margaritas aren’t much more. Check if the night’s movies are showing in English.
Nice bars: Consistently ranking in lists of top bars around the world, 1920s-themed Licorería Limantour serves classic cocktails with international flair. Another bar that will suit gin lovers is Gin Gin, a lively drinking spot known for mixing gin with coconut-infused tonic, rosemary, lime and more.
Insider tip – head to nearby Juarez for all the coolest speakeasy bars like Handshake, Hanky Panky, Xaman, Parker & Lennox (with a secret room for jazz concerts) and Brooklyn Rippers. The first two require reservations (on OpenTable).
Clubs: An upbeat option for salsa dancing is Mama Rumba. If you’re keen for an official class, visit on a Wednesday, Thursday or Saturday and pay 100 pesos. Iconic club, Patrick Miller, is the place to watch locals show off in organised dance circles before it turns into a regular club after 10pm.
Tacos in Roma & Condesa
You’ll find countless places to eat world-class tacos. Some great options for your Mexico City itinerary include…
- Tacos Orinoco on Avenue Insurgentes are known for their generous meaty tacos served with crispy potatoes. The hype is huge so prepare to queue!
- Tacos Alvaro Obregon also serve tasty tacos, volcanos, gringos and more in no-frills surroundings
- El Tizoncito are famed as the birthplace of tacos al pastor. Be sure to try the famous bean dip with tortilla chips
- Taqueria El Califa is a good place to ease in gently with classy tacos on ceramic plates
- Tacos Hola can’t be beaten for 20 peso lunchtime tacos with loads of veggie options
- El Compita Birria de Res for lunchtime birria.
- Tacos El Gato Volador and Tacos Los Juanes for authentic late-night joints.
- (VEGAN) Por Siempre Vegana serve faux-meat tacos including Seitan. These are a bargain at five for 65 pesos. Other vegan taco spots include Gracias Madre, Paxil and Taco Santo. For a more upmarket option, La Pitahaya Vegana serve pretty pink tacos with gourmet ingredients including almond, coconut, pumpkin, braised cauliflower and grilled pineapple. Pay 180 pesos for three.
More Roma & Condesa food for your Mexico City itinerary
Dessert in Roma and Condesa: Don’t miss Ficelle Boulangerie Patisserie for the prettiest cupcakes in town or visit Clemont for a rich and creamy ice cream bar. El Moro is a famous churro cafe and the most atmospheric location is beside Parque Mexico.
Check my complete Roma and Condesa food guide!
Coffee and cafes: Book lovers shouldn’t miss Cafebre El Pendulo, a cosy bookstore cafe. For a laptop cafe with great coffee and the best avocado toast of all time, visit Blend Station. Head to Cardinal (either the Roma or Condesa branch) for the best cortado in town. Quentin is another good spot.
Chocolate: Those with a sweet tooth will love the award-winning chocolates in endless flavours from Tout Chocolat. Then, there’s Tierra Garat, a chain of chocolate cafes where you should order the chocolate con chile (hot chocolate flavoured with chilli).
World cuisine: Whatever you want to eat, you’ll find it in Roma or Condesa. I love the wood-fired pizza with burrata (plus the desserts and margaritas) at Pizza Felix. For ramen and sushi, it’s all about Gin Chan or Kura.
Day 2 Mexico City Itinerary – explore Centro
Big and busy Centro Historico will be a total contrast to your first day wandering Roma and Condesa. Despite being hectic, this UNESCO World Heritage Zone is a must. The main square is called the Zocalo and is the biggest of its kind in Latin America.
Despite all the grand and historic buildings, there are endless busy taquerias and local food stands. Although they stand out like a sore thumb against the ancient architecture, they’re the soul of the Zocalo. You know you’re in Mexico City when you see quesadillas being flipped in front of decadent palaces.
Centro is the best place to learn about Mexico’s rich history. Follow this Mexico City itinerary as we explore the museums, markets, churches and sunny squares.
Top tip – Most museums are closed on Mondays and free on Sundays. Centro Historico (as well as Xochimilco and Coyoacan) will be super busy at weekends. Time your CDMX itinerary accordingly.
Morning in Centro itinerary – mini walking tour
10am: After experiencing Roma’s trendy brunch cafes the day before, grab a traditional breakfast at El Cardenal (my favourite branch is the Hilton one with a replica of a Diego Riera mural inside) or Cafe Tacuba. Both are local institutions open for decades. Go early or be prepared to queue!
11am: explore Palacio del Bellas Artes (Palace of the Arts). This grand marble and gold building is full of classic art by artists including Diego Rivera. It was even the location of Frida Kahlo’s funeral.
In the evening, it doubles up as a ballet venue so you could consider returning for an evening out. Entrance to the gallery is 70 pesos or free on Sundays. Afterwards, wander through Alameda Central, a leafy park where locals hang out.
1pm: For 360-degree panoramic views, pay 70 pesos to head up the Torre Latinoamericana tower. Another option is to buy a drink at Cafe Don Porfirio directly opposite Palacio del Bellas Artes. This viewpoint isn’t half as high but it’s a lovely place to sit outside and soak up city views.
Next, stop by Casa de los Azulejos. This gorgeous blue-and-white tiled building translates as House of Tiles. Head inside for evidence that Mexico City (built inside an ancient lakebed) is sinking. The wonky corridors and beams add character to the decadent interior.
Afternoon
2pm, Chinatown: Okay, this is probably the worst Chinatown I’ve visited but it’s worth a quick wander. Sample a colourful rainbow steamed bun and admire dragon statues.
2.30pm, Palacio Postal: The architecture of this 100-year-old building is worth exploring while downtown. The exterior isn’t spectacular but the interior is lined with gold and marble making it a real hidden gem to peep inside! Beside it is MUNAL (the National Art Museum), a must-visit for art lovers.
3pm: Next, head to Templo Mayor, the remains of an ancient city known as Tenochtitlan, built by the Mexica people. The site has religious importance because it’s believed that a snake and eagle (shown on the Mexican flag) appeared as a vision to locals who subsequently built the temple on this site.
Templo Mayor was built in 1325 and sadly destroyed by the Spanish in the 1500s who used the stone to build Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral right beside it. This is one of the largest and oldest cathedrals in the Americas so it’s an impressive albeit tragic monument.
4pm, El Moro: Visit the original branch of this iconic chocolate and churro cafe. Arguably the best, this flagship cafe is always packed with locals queuing out the door. Grab a seat in the diner-style venue and guzzle hot chocolate and churros to your heart’s content.
5pm, Explore the markets:
In the afternoon, wander through Mercado de San Juan to experience busy local life. This ‘exotic’ market is not for the faint of heart with some lion and tiger busts on the walls. Strangely, it’s also a great place to shop for Spanish cheese and tapas snacks!
For contrast, arrive at La Ciudadela, a colourful crafts market (technically in Juarez not Centro but worth the quick detour if you have time) where you can shop for clothes, bags, rugs, pillowcases, art, souvenirs… the list goes on!
Save some space in your luggage because you’ll want to purchase a LOT!
Rather explore the markets with a guide? Find the best food in San Juan and Merced markets with GetYourGuide.
More things to do in Centro
If any places on the above itinerary don’t take your fancy, here are some alternatives for your Mexico City itinerary. I’ve visited all these places personally so can vouch for them!
- Listen to mariachi music in the evenings at Plaza Garibaldi (it’s best to call an Uber home as this isn’t the safest area to walk around at night)
- See the incredible ceiling at the Gran Hotel – this is free and only takes a minute
- Museo de Arte Popular – a beautiful museum dedicated to colourful Mexican folk art (one of my all-time favourite places in CDMX)
- The Franz Mayer Museum in a beautiful complex with interesting temporary exhibitions
- The National Palace – see incredible Diego Rivera murals on the free daily 10.30am tour (get in line an hour before)
- Secretariat of Public Education – more Diego murals that you can see for free
- Museo Mural Diego Rivera – worth a quick visit to see the Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Central mural.
Read next a complete guide to Centro Historico CDMX including what to eat!
Safety in the Zocalo
Unlike Roma, Condesa and Coyoacan where I have no zero safety concerns, I would recommend keeping an eye on your bag around Centro, especially around tightly-packed markets.
After dark, call an Uber rather than walking. I’ll discuss transportation options in detail towards the end of this blog.
Evening – Lucha Libre show
Even if you’re not into wrestling, Lucha Libre is more of a show than anything else combining costumes, acting and even a bit of aerobics. It’s been part of Mexican culture since the 1800s so it’s an entertaining addition to your travel plans.
You can see the luchadores wrestlers perform in iconic costumes seven nights a week at Arena Mexico. Get your tickets on the door or book in advance.
By booking a Lucha Libre tour you have a bit more security as Arena Mexico isn’t in the safest area (plus, it’s a fun vibe with a group), but it’s still ok to go independently – just call an Uber and don’t stroll the neighbourhood at night.
Day 3 Mexico City itinerary – Coyoacan & San Angel
These two charming neighbourhoods sit close together in the south of Mexico City which is why I’d recommend visiting both during 1 day.
San Angel Market holds a Saturday Market so visit then if possible.
Getting to San Angel/Coyoacan: An Uber from Roma/Condesa will cost 150 pesos to either San Angel or Coyoacan. Instead, you can arrive into Coyoacan metro station for just 5 pesos but note it’s a 20-minute walk from Coyoacan historic centre.
San Angel
This lesser-visited suburb of Mexico City is charming and sleepy with pretty churches and parks.
The Saturday Bazaar sprawls the streets and covered market halls, selling contemporary Mexican art, gourmet cheese, chocolate, bath products, jewellery, antiques and more. This is bound to be a highlight during your five days in Mexico City.
Even if you can’t visit at the weekend, it’s worth a wander around this pretty part of Mexico City.
San Angel and Coyoacan are just a 10-minute drive apart. After San Angel, jump in an Uber to Coyoacan, once a small town until Mexico City sprawled and engulfed it. You’ll feel as if you’ve escaped the capital altogether thanks to the leafy parks and sleepy backstreets.
Read next: the best things to do in Coyoacan
Frida Kahlo Museum, Coyoacan
This is what puts Coyoacan on the map. Frida Kahlo was Mexico’s most famous artist and she lived out her days with her husband Diego Rivera here in the Blue House where you can see plenty of her original artwork.
My best tip for visiting the Frida Kahlo Museum is to book Frida Kahlo museum tickets online in advance. It’s extremely popular and you could queue for hours and not get in, especially at weekends. Once you’re inside, you’ll want to spend 1-2 hours admiring exhibits and relaxing in the sunny courtyard.
Lunch at Mercado de Coyoacan
Add this bustling covered market to your Mexico City itinerary. It’s worth a visit just to sample the many tostada toppings at Tostadas Coyoacan (I’d recommend chicken mole and shrimp & avocado).
Wander the atmospheric market and shop for souvenirs.
Afternoon activities in Coyoacan
- Mercado Artesanal Mexicano – shop at this market known for its handcrafted goods and souvenirs
- Parroquia San Juan Bautista Church – one of the oldest churches in the Americas built eight years after the conquest of Mexico
- Plaza de la Conchita – a crumbling, pale yellow church beside a pretty square
- Chapel of Santa Catarina – a final church with a vibrant yellow exterior.
- Casa de Cultura Jesus Reyes Heroles – a free-to-visit cultural centre with Aztec relics, artwork and statues of Frida and Diego. Find it beside the Chapel of Santa Catarina and grab coffee afterwards at Meson Antigua, a brightly coloured restaurant with indoor murals.
Where to drink coffee in Coyoacan
- Cafe Negro – visit for excellent coffee and enormous sandwiches and salads. The Wi-Fi is strong.
- Cafe Avellaneda – this tiny coffee shop is a local institution, well worth adding to your CDMX itinerary. Grab a seat at the bar and chat to the other guests.
Read next: the best cafes and restaurants in Coyoacan
Day 4 Mexico City itinerary – Chapultepec & Polanco
For the penultimate day of your trip, we’re headed to two brand new neighbourhoods, neither of which bare any resemblance to the ones you’ve seen already.
To save money, plan this day out for a Sunday when the museums are free.
Morning
A corner of Mexico City I haven’t yet introduced is Chapultepec Park, bigger than Central Park in New York. This is one of my favourite places to take a walk in the sunshine and escape the noise and traffic.
It’s also home to the oldest castle in the Americas where Romeo and Juliet was filmed, plus museums, art galleries, a zoo and food market.
10am: Start your day by grabbing coffee at Libreria Porrua Bosque de Chapultepec, a quirky bookshop cafe with trees growing inside and views over the lake. The coffee is only ok but it’s worth a visit for the surroundings.
If you have the time and energy, hire a pedalo and explore the lake.
10.30am, Museum of Anthropology: Just a moment’s walk from Libreria Porrua is Museo Nacional de Antropología, in my opinion the best museum in CDMX. You’ll learn about the Mayas, Aztecs and other pre-Hispanic civilisations. Entrance is 70 pesos.
Other things to do in Chapultepec
Add to your Mexico City itinerary…
12pm, Food Market: You could easily spend hours at the Anthropology Museum so you’ll probably be hungry by the time you leave. Wander through the large food market in the centre of the park and try quesadillas, tortas, huaraches, mole and various other Mexican foods. It’s not gourmet but nothing will cost you more than 100 pesos!
1pm, Chapultepec Castle: Exploring this impressive castle, museum and art gallery is a must for five days in Mexico City. Built upon a sacred Aztec hilltop in 1775, the Spanish are of course responsible for this European-style castle. In fact, it’s the only castle in the Americas to have ever been inhabited by royals.
This iconic spot is the filming location of Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo and Juliet. Other tidbits of history include the fact it was abandoned during the War of Independence, then defended by six children who lost their lives during the Mexican-American War. Pay your respects at the Niños Héroes (Hero Children) statue.
Entrance to the castle and Museum of National History is 70 pesos. Closed Mondays.
2pm, Museo de Arte Moderno: If you’re not all cultured-out, swing by this modern art gallery before leaving Chapultepec Park. Here you can see the famous Two Fridas painting, a self-portrait following her divorce from Diego. Entrance is 70 pesos or free on Sundays (closed Mondays).
Afternoon – Polanco
Polanco is Mexico City’s most upmarket neighbourhood. I wouldn’t recommend staying there unless you want to hemorrhage money but it’s somewhere you can spend a couple of hours exploring just to see how the other half live.
It’s not the most culturally interesting or exciting area of the city, in my opinion, so if you run out of time for anything in this itinerary, I’d suggest this being the place you skip!
Things to do in Polanco:
- Soumaya Museum: this private art museum was built by the richest man in Mexico, Carlos Slim, at a cost of $70 million. Inside are 600,000+ pieces of art including mosaics, statues, and religious art. Entry is free (although there are often long queues) until 6.30pm. Closed Tuesdays.
- Museo Jumex: another private art collection next door to Soumaya. Closed Mondays.
- Tane Store: This is nothing but a Mexico City Insta spot probably engineered by the jewellery store. But who’s complaining? This is one of Mexico City’s most iconic photo spots so swing by and snap some.
- Shop for accessories, jewellery and homeware at hipster market, Mercado Escondido.
- Wander Lincoln Park home to the Martin Luther King Monument.
Where to eat and drink in Polanco
While you might not expect authentic street food in such a fancy neighbourhood, there are plenty of stands outside Soumaya Museum. Since there’s a thriving Jewish community in Polanco, you can also sample authentic fare at Klein’s Polanco.
For lunch, dinner and coffee, visit Cafebrería El Pendulo, the Polanco branch of Mexico City’s library cafe.
In my opinion, the best speciality coffee in Polanco can be found at Cucurucho, Blend Station, Niddo and Bakers (don’t miss the baked goods at the last two!).
However, the most famous restaurant in Polanco (and possibly the whole city) is Pujol. Voted one of Latin America’s best restaurants, chef Enrique Olver uses traditional Mexican ingredients in his imaginative modern dishes. You’ll need to shell out $200 USD per head and book three months in advance but fans of fine dining will tell you it’s worth it!
Day 5 Mexico City itinerary – Xochimilco
Xochimilco is sometimes referred to as the ‘Venice of Mexico City’ although I can’t say I particularly see the resemblance.
The boats that roam Xochimilco’s waterways are not delicate gondolas but enormous trajineras, brightly painted with images from Mexican culture.
Trajinera tour
For a fun day out, head to Embarcadero Nativitas where you can arrange a tour price with the vendors. A slightly quieter port I like is Embarcadero de Cuemanco.
Since they rent out a whole boat per group, you’ll want to buddy up to make this cheaper. If you’re not staying in a hostel, I’d suggest waiting at the pier and asking other pairs / small groups if they want to join. Alternatively, book a tour then you don’t need to worry.
Highly rated tours include a lunchtime boat tour with drinks, a tour including Coyoacan and UNAM (great if you’re short of time), a fun boat tour with a mezcal mixology class and a social party cruise.
While enjoying your tour of the Xochimilco waterways, you’ll have the chance to purchase Mexican snacks like tamales and quesadillas from passing boats.
This day out can be whatever you make it: some people bring beers, hire a mariachi band at the pier and make it a party. Others cruise down the waterways and enjoy the greenery and nature. It’s entirely up to you.
Eco tour: to escape the crowds and support local livelihoods, I would recommend taking a Floating Gardens of Xochimilco tour with Pachoa Mexico. We didn’t board a trajinera but we were able to explore the islands in greater depth by canoe and learn how local farmers have used the area for centuries. We didn’t see another boat all day!
Afternoon
Originally, I mentioned visiting the Dolores Museum for the final afternoon of your Mexico City itinerary. However, this has closed and is set to reopen in Chapultepec Park. I will keep this updated when I hear more!
Instead, for any spare hours, I recommend hanging out in Roma and Condesa, enjoying the sunshine and lovely cafes, parks and breweries. You earned it!
Getting around Mexico City
This depends what’s more important to you: time or money! If you have just 5 days in Mexico City, you may be best off calling Ubers to save time. However, if you want to try public transport (which is very efficient and affordable), here’s what you need to know:
- Metro: these underground trains can be busy and hectic but they’re a cheap and efficient way to get around. Keep your bag close and use the women & children’s carriage at night. Journeys cost 5 pesos. To buy a travel card and top it up, approach the counter and say ‘Puedo tener una tarjeta con x pesos?’
- Metrobús and trolleybus: You tap on and off with your Metro card and journeys cost 6 pesos. Like the Metro, these routes and times show up on Google Maps. The Metrobus consists of red carriages travelling along electric tram-style lines between designated boarding stations, and the trolleybus is a blue bus.
- Regular buses: I’ve never mastered these as the routes don’t show up on Google Maps. If you speak a little Spanish and ask the driver where they’re going, give them a go. Pay in cash but don’t expect change.
- Ecobici – these electric bikes are available for rent from docks around the city. Download the app and get a daily or weekly pass. Be careful cycling and stick to designated bike lanes. Dock every 45 minutes to avoid extra charges.
- Uber: these are much cheaper than at home. You’ll pay around 150 pesos for a 30-minute ride. Other taxi apps include Didi and InDrive. I’d always suggest taking a taxi at night rather than walking, with the exception of safe areas like Roma and Condesa.
SIM cards when visiting Mexico City
For a short Mexico City itinerary, you might not bother with a SIM card. But if you’re out and about calling Ubers at night, I find they can make life easier and more secure.
I use a Telcel SIM card which I top up monthly in any OXXO store. For 150 pesos, you’ll get calls, texts, 4gb of mobile data, plus unlimited social media and WhatsApp for a month (which can be used all over Mexico if you’re travelling after). Ask or show the cashier ‘Tarjeta SIM Telcel con paquete 150, por favor’.
Do you need to know Spanish to visit Mexico City?
Well, it will certainly help! Although many tour guides and people working in cafes and restaurants in the Roma and Condesa areas speak English, it’s not widely spoken among the general population.
So, the more Spanish you know the better! However, lots of travellers visit Mexico City knowing little to no Spanish and get by just fine. Brush up on the basics, have Google. Translate downloaded and do your best!
Is Mexico City safe?
I’ve included this because it’s the first thing people ask me when I tell them I live in Mexico City. Everyone planning a trip here seems to be concerned about safety. So, I want to put your mind at rest!
Sure, there are bad areas of CDMX but you’re unlikely to wander into them. Doctores and Tepito are the only two bad areas remotely near the touristic areas but, since they don’t have any major tourist attractions (aside from the Lucha Libre shows in Doctores), you’re not going to wander into them.
Overall, yes, Mexico City is safe to visit. My main safety tip is not to walk at night, except in super safe areas like Roma and Condesa. Call Uber instead – it’s cheap!
Other than that, do the normal things you would anywhere like watch your belongings in busy, crowded areas and don’t get too drunk. You should have no problems.
Best time to visit Mexico City
There isn’t really a bad time to visit because CDMX has year-round good weather. However, the coldest months are December to January with daytime lows of 11°C / 51°F and colder evenings so you’ll want to pack jeans and a warm jacket.
By February, it’s warm again and stays hot throughout the summer. Rainy season is June-September so plan for showers in these months.
Additional day trips from Mexico City
If you have days to spare in Mexico, the capital is an excellent place to use them. Tag these days on to your Mexico City itinerary.
Puebla
I would recommend spending a couple of days in Puebla, a gorgeous city just 2 hours from Mexico City. However, if you have limited time, take an organised day trip from Mexico City.
Sample local candies along Calle del Dulces (Sweet Street), journey inside Cholula Pyramid and wander the Artist’s Quarter. Sample delicious local delicacies, mole poblano (chocolate and chilli sauce best eaten over chicken enchiladas) and chile en nogada (a giant chilli stuffed with a fruit hash and bathed in creamy walnut sauce). Puebla food is the best!
To visit Puebla, take an organised day tour or catch an early bus from Tapo (Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente). Book on busbud.
Tepoztlán
Another day trip from Mexico City is to Tepoztlán, a charming town 1.5 hours from the capital. Striking craggy mountains surround Tepotzlán which you can hike into by visiting Archaeological Zone Tepozteco. From here you’ll get beautiful views over the town and countryside.
Reward yourself at the local market where you can try prehispanic cuisine including burgers patties made with pink hibiscus, squash, mole and ginger. Vegans will be in the element. Read more about the Tepoztlán food here.
Taxco
Taxco is a traditional silver mining town 2.5 hours from Mexico City. Catch a bus from Mexico City’s Taxqueña (Terminal de Sur) or take an organised Taxco day tour from the capital.
lf you have time, I’d recommend staying overnight to explore the many lovely things to do in Taxco including shopping for silver jewellery and eating speciality dishes such as rose mole and queso malinalli.
Mexico City packing list
Here are a few things I would recommend taking to Mexico City:
- Clothes: Jeans, sweater and a jacket – you’ll especially need these in winter and during the evenings
- Cooler clothes for day times: shorts, dresses and skirts are all appropriate for Mexico City
- ‘Nicer’ clothes for restaurants and bars (whatever you’d wear at home)
- Comfy sneakers – you’ll do a lot of walking
- Nicer sandals for evenings
- Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Microfibre quick-drying towel
- Security: A handy bum bag with secure zip
- Combination padlock (ideal for hostel lockers)
- Research: The latest copy of Lonely Planet Mexico
- A Lonely Planet Mexican Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary
- Technology: a GoPro if you’re making videos – I use the HERO8 Black
- Solo photography pick: Manfrotto tripod and Joby Gorillapod
- A power bank to keep your devices alive
- Sustainability: stainless steel reusable water bottle with straw lid to reduce the use of plastic bottles
- Alternatively, a filtering water bottle that allows you to safely drink tap water
- Reusable coffee cup (collapsable) for hot takeaway drinks
- Metal straw kit with straw cleaner and cloth bag.
Travelling further around Mexico?
- Head south to Oaxaca state. I had a blast in Oaxaca city eating mole, visiting Hierve el Agua, spotting street art and experiencing Dia de Muertos. While in Oaxaca, take a trip to Puerto Escondido where you can see dolphins, turtles and luminous plankton
- Guadalajara is the other ‘big city’ in Mexico. I spent 4 days in Guadalajara exploring the Zocalo, Tlaqueupaque art district, Chapultepec, and visiting Tequila and Lake Chapala as day trips
- Queretaro city (and state) is four hours from Mexico City. I spent a blissful weekend here, hopping between the Queretaro wineries and visiting Pueblo Magicos (magic towns voted by the tourist board), Bernal and Tequisquiapan
- Guanajuato state has a few cities of interest to travellers. I visited San Miguel from Mexico City which I enjoyed (despite its rep as an American retirement hub) but I preferred colourful Guanajuato city where I spent Christmas 2019.
Thanks for reading my Mexico City itinerary
VISITING MEXICO?
These are my trusted resources:
Getting around by air – the quickest (and often cheapest) way to travel between Mexican cities is by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going.
Getting around by bus (environmental option) – buses in Mexico are comfy with free snacks and an in-journey entertainment system. I use Busbud to find the best prices.
Driving in Mexico – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in Mexico (and all around the world)
For hotels in Mexico, I use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com.
To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters, a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets.
Browse Mexico tours and activities on GetYourGuide. I always check Viator in case they have a better price.
For Mexico food tours with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith.
Need to top up your Spanish? Pack a Lonely Planet Mexican Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary.
Need travel insurance? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote.
For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing.
Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!
For more travel content, follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
Check out my other Mexico City blogs:
- 23 Mexico City travel tips
- Solo female travel to Mexico City, is it safe?
- How to visit Xochimilco
- The best restaurants in Condesa and Roma
- The ultimate Mexico bucket list
- Solo female travel in Mexico
- A guide to Coyoacan Mexico City
- Where to eat in Coyoacan
- 36 best Mexican foods to try
- Hierve el Agua without the crowds
- The best food in Tepoztlán
See you next time,
Rose
Ps. Liked this Mexico City itinerary? Pin it for later!
Hey Rose, just finishing up my 6th day in Mexico City. Had a look at the blog initially just for some inspiration but found myself going back to it over and over again. Didn’t manage to get to all the places you recommended but so thankful for your recommendations. Super easy to follow along, looking forward to reading more 🙂
Hello! Thanks for commenting, I’m always so happy to know people enjoyed the blogs. Mexico City is amazing, isn’t it?!
This is exactly what I was looking for- great article. thanks Rose!