60 Things To Do in Mexico City to Savor, Not Rush
I love Mexico City — it’s definitely one of my favorite cities in the world, and I could live there without any problem!
I’ve spent a total of five months there, spread across five different trips. Each time, I not only enjoy wandering through the streets of the historic center but especially exploring the various neighborhoods that make up this incredible megacity.
In this article, you’ll see that I deliberately stay away from the most popular areas like Roma, Condesa, or Polanco. I prefer to explore less touristy spots where you can really soak up local life and stumble upon little off-the-beaten-path gems.
I’m a big fan of slow travel, and taking the time to appreciate the city through its neighborhoods, alleyways, architecture, cafés, and markets is a true joy for me.
If this way of traveling speaks to you, you’re going to love this list of 60 things to do in Mexico City. It mixes must-see classics with more hidden gems, so you can discover the many faces of the Mexican capital at your own pace.
This article contains affiliate links 🙂 They earn me a small commission on bookings, but no worries—there’s no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my blog, and enjoy the read!
Plan Your Stay in Mexico City in Just a Few Seconds!
In a rush to plan your trip? This mini-guide has all the essentials you need!
WHERE TO SLEEP?
- Hotel Isabel (A charming hotel in the historic center)
- Casa Hidalgo (Perfect for families)
WHERE TO EAT?
- Santo Pozole (To taste pozole, a true local delicacy)
- Plantasia (For vegan dishes)
- Just outside almost any metro station (for tacos al pastor)
THINGS TO DO:
- Wander through the historic center
- Visit the Anthropology Museum
- Explore Coyoacán
Mexico in a nutshell
Mexico City, perched over 2,000 meters above sea level, is one of the most fascinating megacities in the world.
Founded on the ruins of Tenochtitlán, the capital of the Aztec Empire, the city’s fate was forever changed with the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century. It then became the capital of New Spain.
Today, this sprawling capital attracts visitors from all over the world, drawn by its rich history and culture, and an incredible atmosphere filled with colorful markets and irresistible street food.
In short, it’s a city you don’t just visit… it’s a city you feel.
Planning a trip to Mexico? Don’t miss my articles on 25 things to do in Oaxaca, the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Escondido, and what to do in San Cristobal de las Casas.
60 things to do in Mexico City
1. Walk on the Zócalo
It’s the largest square in Mexico and one of the biggest in the world. Also known as Plaza de la Constitución, the Zócalo is the historical and political heart of the city.
This vast space is rarely empty, as cultural events and demonstrations take place there regularly—an opportunity to experience unique moments surrounded by locals.
It’s surrounded by iconic buildings, making it a must-visit for every tourist.
2. Admire the cathedral
You can’t miss the largest cathedral in Latin America if you’re walking around the Zócalo.
Its construction took three centuries, blending Baroque, Neoclassical, and Renaissance styles. The interior is just as impressive as the façade.
Entry is free, so after walking around the building to admire every detail, I highly recommend stepping inside.
🕒 Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, from 8 AM to 8 PM
📍Location: Plaza de la Constitución
3. Visit the Templo Mayor
Located right next to the cathedral, this major archaeological site allows you to discover the remains of the former Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. You’ll be able to see the base of the Great Temple and various ritual objects.
The adjacent museum is a must-see! It offers deeper insight into Mexican culture.
In my opinion, learning about the peoples who lived here before the arrival of the colonizers is essential to truly understand the city. You can buy a skip-the-line ticket!
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM – 5 PM
💲 Price: 100 pesos
📍 Location: Seminario 8
4. Go to the Palacio Nacional
This impressive building, which runs along one side of the Zócalo, is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the capital, as it houses the famous murals by Diego Rivera.
They depict the history of Mexico from pre-Hispanic times to the Revolution. The inner courtyards are also stunning.
Admission is free, but you must book your visit by sending an email to: visitas_guiadas@hacienda.gob.mx. Mention the date you’d like to visit and the number of people in your group.
I visited before this requirement was introduced and had to leave my passport at the entrance to be allowed in. So make sure to check this in advance as well.
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM
📍 Location: Plaza de la Constitución
5. Head Up the Torre Latinoamericana
Impossible to miss as you wander through Mexico City’s historic center, the Torre Latinoamericana is especially known for its stunning panoramic view over the entire city.
From the top of its 44 floors, you’ll get a better sense of the city’s geography as it stretches endlessly into the distance.
Of course, sunset is an excellent time to visit the observation deck! But the most important thing is to make sure the sky is clear before you go — not always easy in a city known for its pollution.
🕒 Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, from 9 AM to 10 PM
💲 Price: 220 pesos
📍 Location: Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas 2
6. Take a pictura at the Casa de los Azulejos
If, like me, you’re obsessed with azulejos, this historic 18th-century house is well worth a visit.
After snapping a photo of its beautiful exterior, I recommend stepping inside the Sanborns restaurant, which it houses.
Its colonial architecture and elegant interior make it the perfect spot for a coffee break.
📍Location: Avenida Francisco I. Madero 4
7. Discover the Palacio postal
This neo-Gothic style palace, still functioning as a post office, is an architectural gem.
Built at the beginning of the 20th century, tourists come to admire its marble staircase, gilded details, and stained glass windows.
Entry is free, and you’ll only need a few minutes to explore it.
🕒 Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
📍Location: Calle de Tacuba 1
8. Have lunch at Cafe de Tacuba
There are still a few iconic cafés and restaurants in Mexico City that transport you to another time — and Café de Tacuba is one of them.
Dating back to the early 20th century, it has preserved its old-world charm with mural paintings, antique furniture, and waiters dressed in traditional uniforms.
It’s the perfect place to enjoy traditional Mexican cuisine in a beautiful setting. Just keep in mind that prices are on the higher side.
🕒 Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
📍Location: Calle de Tacuba 28
Want to take a guided tour of Mexico City’s historic center? Book here!
9. Walk through the alameda central
The Alameda Central is a park located in the heart of the historic center, perfect for taking a break after a good visit.
This public green space is also one of the oldest in the Americas. Fountains, sculptures, and beautiful shaded pathways make it an ideal place to stroll during the day.
On weekends, the park is very busy, and it’s not uncommon to see performances or groups of people dancing cumbia or salsa. Don’t hesitate to join in!
10. Wander on the Paseo de la Reforma
It’s the most important avenue in the city. It is lined with monuments like the Angel of Independence and offers a glimpse of the capital’s more modern and business side.
Every Sunday, it transforms into a pedestrian-friendly bike path. You can also find temporary contemporary sculptures there.
11. Visit the Chapultepec castle
Perched on a hill in Chapultepec Forest, this castle offers a breathtaking view of the city.
However, this former imperial and presidential residence mainly attracts locals and tourists because it houses the National History Museum.
With richly decorated rooms and stunning gardens, the visit is a must for history and architecture lovers.
Entry is free on Sundays for Mexicans and residents, so the site gets very crowded! I recommend choosing another day to enjoy the visit. In any case, you can also enjoy a private tour not to miss a thing.
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
💲 Price: 110 pesos.
📍 Location: Bosque de Chapultepec
12. Discover the UNAM campus
The campus of the city’s famous public university has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007.
It was the cradle of social protests, including the one in 1968 that led to the Tlatelolco massacre, and it is also a major center of artistic expression.
Indeed, it features numerous murals, including a work by the renowned Diego Rivera. The mural by Juan O’Gorman that decorates the central library is the most iconic piece.
I recommend visiting the site on a Sunday to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, sitting on the grass while watching groups of friends laughing or dog owners walking their companions.
Don’t miss a thing at this iconic site with a local guide! Book here!
13. Admire the kiosco Morisco
One of my favorite monuments in Mexico City is the Morisco Kiosk located in the park.
This architectural gem was Mexico’s pavilion at the 1884-1885 World’s Fair in New Orleans and later at the 1904 Saint Louis Fair (Missouri) before returning home.
Visiting it also means enjoying the beautiful surrounding park for a relaxing moment. Take the opportunity to buy a delicious coconut cream from the street vendors.
📍Location: Jaime Torres Bodet 152
14. Have a break at the Vasconcelos Library
Located quite far from the historic center, the Vasconcelos Library is also a must-see for slow travelers.
You can simply come to admire its architecture or take the opportunity to sit down and quietly read some books.
The futuristic architecture and suspended structures of this library will surely surprise you. It also offers a small viewpoint to admire the city from above.
Before leaving, take a stroll through its botanical garden, the perfect place to enjoy a brief moment in nature.
🕒 Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
📍 Location: Eje 1 Norte
ALSO READ: Best Things to Do in Oaxaca
15. Get spooked at Callejón del Aguacate
Discovering a city in depth also means diving into its mysteries and legends.
El Callejón del Aguacate is a charming yet mysterious alley in the Coyoacán neighborhood, where demonic manifestations are said to be far from rare.
16. Be Amazed by the Plaza de Toros
Did you know that the largest bullring in the world is located in Mexico City? Indeed, the Plaza de Toros can accommodate over 40,000 spectators.
Don’t worry—you don’t have to attend a bullfight to explore this iconic site of Mexican culture, as concerts and other events are regularly held there.
📍Location: Cda. Augusto Rodin 130
17. Wander Through the Mixcoac Archaeological Site
Far Less Known Than the Templo Mayor, this small archaeological zone offers a chance to explore an ancient pre-Hispanic ceremonial center, tucked away in a neighborhood rarely visited by tourists.
I personally stay in Mixcoac every time I come to Mexico City, and to give you an idea of how quiet this site is: on the day of my visit, I arrived 30 minutes before closing and noticed when signing the register that I had been the only visitor that day.
Entrance is free, and the remains are surprisingly well-preserved.
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
📍 Location: Calle Pirámide 7
18. Visit the Panteon de San Fernando
I stumbled upon this cemetery by chance, and it turns out to be the final resting place of illustrious figures from Mexican politics and history, such as President Vicente Guerrero.
You can visit this unique place on your own — entrance is free. Guided tours are also available if you’d like to learn more about the historical and artistic treasures hidden within the pantheon.
🕒 Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
📍 Location: Calle San Fernando 17
19. Palacio de Belllas Artes
This is without a doubt one of my favorite places! It’s impossible not to be charmed by this building, whose colorful dome is one of the city’s most iconic sights.
Inside, this masterpiece of Art Deco and Art Nouveau architecture houses stunning murals by Diego Rivera, Siqueiros, and Orozco.
On Sundays, entrance is free, and the guided tours offered here are truly excellent!
You can also visit to attend operas or ballet performances.
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
💲 Price: 95 pesos. Free on Sundays.
📍 Location: Avenida Juárez
20. Museo de Antropologia
You simply can’t visit CDMX without stopping by the fantastic National Museum of Anthropology!
It’s one of the most important museums in Latin America — and definitely one of the most fascinating! A must if you want to understand the country’s history.
The museum traces the history of pre-Hispanic civilizations through Aztec, Mayan, Olmec treasures, and many more. It’s also home to the famous Sun Stone.
Fair warning: the museum is huge, and the amount of information can be overwhelming. I recommend focusing on just a few halls during your visit.
That said, you’ll want to come back — trust me!
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
💲 Price: 100 pesos
📍 Location: Avenida Paseo de la Reforma
Don’t miss a thing at this iconic spot — explore it with a local guide! Book your tour here!
21. Casa Frida Kahlo
The famous Blue House is a must-visit when in Coyoacán. It’s where the world-renowned artist Frida Kahlo lived.
You can admire her personal belongings, artworks, clothes, and her studio. The emotional and artistic atmosphere is truly powerful.
Don’t forget to book your ticket in advance! It’s one of the most visited museums in the country, so tickets can sell out quickly!
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday and Thursday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
💲 Price: 320 pesos.
📍 Location: Calle Londres 247
22. Museo del juguete antiguo
This unusual museum is generally overlooked by international tourists, yet it is one of the most surprising and memorable in the city!
Here, thousands of vintage Mexican toys from the 20th century to today are on display. The collection is truly vast, and the atmosphere is unique—part kitsch, part popular culture.
The building itself is worth a visit as it’s covered in street art, and its rooftop offers a nice view of the city.
🕒 Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
💲 Price: 50 pesos.
📍 Location: Calle Dr Olvera 15
23. Museo Mural Diego Rivera
This small museum is entirely dedicated to the monumental mural Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central by Diego Rivera.
The artwork brings together dozens of historical and imaginary figures from Mexico. You’ll spend a long time discovering all the references on this gigantic mural.
This visit is an ideal introduction to the artist’s style and political thinking. It’s one of my favorite museums!
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
💲 Price: 35 pesos. Free entry on Sundays.
📍 Location: Calle Colón Balderas
24. Estudios Rivera y Kahlo
Another iconic place: the Rivera and Kahlo Studios. These are the twin house-studios, designed in an avant-garde modernist style by Juan O’Gorman.
Here, you can explore the workspaces of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, as well as personal artworks.
Entry is free on Sundays. The visit is quite quick, so I really recommend taking advantage of the free entry.
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
💲 Price: 45 pesos. Free entry on Sundays.
📍 Location: Calle Diego Rivera
25. Museo Soumaya
The futuristic building shaped like a silver cloud that houses the Soumaya Museum is worth the visit alone.
Once inside, you’ll explore Carlos Slim’s vast private collection, showcasing both European works (Rodin, Monet, Van Gogh…) and Mexican art.
Entry is free, and it’s truly an interesting visit for lovers of international art.
🕒 Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
📍 Location: Boulevard Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra
26. Museo de la Revolución
The building housing the famous museum is a symbol of Mexico City, so you will likely pass by it at some point during your visit.
Inside, the history of the Mexican Revolution is recounted. Another must-see visit to better understand the country. The exhibition combines documents, objects, and interactive installations.
Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
💲 Price: 40 pesos. Free entry on Sundays.
📍 Location: Plaza Avenida de la República
27. Museo Vivo del Muralismo
This gem opened very recently, and if you, like me, love murals, this museum should definitely be on your bucket list—especially since entry is free!
Several artists are featured, although Diego Rivera still takes center stage. The building itself is also well worth the visit!
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
💲 Price: 40 pesos. Free entry on Sundays.
📍 Location: Calle República de Argentina 28
28. Museo de artes populares
My favorite museum in Mexico City! It celebrates Mexican craftsmanship in all its forms: alebrijes, textiles, ceramics, ritual objects…
The collections are very visual and accessible to all audiences. It’s housed in a former Art Deco building, which adds to its charm.
Whether alone or as a couple, the visit is worth it. And it’s even better if you have children.
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
💲 Price: 60 pesos. Free entry on Sundays.
📍 Location: Calle Revillagigedo 11
29. Museo del Carmen
This museum, absolutely unknown to tourists, will surprise you because it hides mummies! Indeed, more than a dozen bodies rest in the crypt.
But that’s not the only attraction of this really fascinating place, dedicated to the history of daily life of the Discalced Carmelites order. It also exhibits beautiful murals and interesting pieces of sacred art.
🕒 Opening hours: Wednesday to Friday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
💲 Price: 80 pesos.
📍 Location: Av. Revolución 4 y 6, between Monasterio and Rafael Checa
30. Visit an art gallery
Mexico City is full of contemporary art galleries, especially in the neighborhoods of Roma, Condesa, and San Miguel Chapultepec.
There, you can discover the current art scene, emerging talents, and the latest artistic trends in the country.
Most galleries are free and open to the public. I recommend Kurimanzutto to enjoy contemporary art.
31. Chapultepec
It’s Mexico City’s Central Park! A true green lung of the city, it includes museums, lakes, trails, gardens, and even the famous castle of the same name!
It’s the perfect place for a walk or a picnic. You can also rent a boat and cruise on the lake.
I recommend visiting on weekends to enjoy the lively atmosphere when locals take over the park with their families or friends.
You’ll find many food stands and vendors selling all sorts of items. You’ll also see Mexicans wearing funny hats!
If you get hungry and want to sit down to eat, there’s a food plaza with many restaurants. The quality isn’t great, but you won’t leave hungry!
THE BOTANICAL GARDEN
One of my favorite spots in Chapultepec! A haven of peace and biodiversity, showcasing the floral richness of Mexico. Entrance is free.
32. Parque Hundido
I’ve spent many hours in Parque Hundido, a peaceful green space in the south of the city, built on an old quarry.
Its emblem is a large floral clock that’s always ticking. You’ll also find numerous statues and, above all, a tranquil atmosphere to recharge away from it all.
📍 Location: Av. de los Insurgentes Sur
33. Parque Lira
This little-known park, located in Tacubaya, houses an old aristocratic mansion, a beautiful neo-Gothic gate, and a charming pond.
Quiet and shady, it’s the perfect spot for a real break away from the city’s hustle and close to the local neighborhood vibe.
📍 Location: Av. Parque Lira 136
34. Sonora Market
This is the market to visit if you want to immerse yourself in Mexican popular beliefs and spirituality. Here, you’ll find everything from witchcraft items and medicinal herbs to religious objects and talismans.
In the weeks leading up to Halloween and Día de los Muertos, this market becomes the key place to shop for preparing the celebrations!
🕒 Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
📍 Location: Calle Fray Servando Teresa de Mier 419
35. Coyoacan Market
The Coyoacán market is one of the most visited by tourists, which is somewhat reflected in the prices! However, it remains a perfect example of typical Mexican markets where you can buy fruits and vegetables, meat, and crafts.
It’s also the ideal place to enjoy Mexican delicacies like quesadillas, tostadas, and tlacoyos.
📍 Location: Calle Ignacio Allende
ALSO READ: The Best Puerto Escondido Beaches
36. Artisan market La Ciudadela
The La Ciudadela artisan market is an exceptional showcase of Mexican art and the perfect place to buy souvenirs.
You will find handmade items from all regions of the country: embroidered textiles, pottery, masks, jewelry, paintings, and alebrijes.
Since it is a tourist spot, prices are higher than elsewhere, so don’t hesitate to bargain a little.
37. La Merced Market
This is the largest food market in the city. A true chaos, but what a pleasure to wander through!
Here, you will find everything: tropical fruits, spices, meats, flowers, household items…
It’s a real dive into the daily life of the locals, but if you don’t like crowded places, don’t go! Also, avoid going late at night. It’s not the safest place…
Avoid getting lost in the La Merced market! The place is really huge and can be quite stressful, so I recommend exploring it as part of a guided tour.
38. Eat tacos
When you think Mexico, you think tacos. Almost every street corner hides a stand or a taquería with specialties like al pastor, suadero, carnitas, barbacoa…
I highly recommend the tacos al pastor, my personal favorite! And I know it can be debated, but in my opinion, the tacos sold at street stands near metro exits are often much better than those in taquerías.
It can be intimidating if you’re not used to eating street food, but trust your nose or ask a local for advice!
39. Eat churros
I’ve been living in Spain since 2011, and while I really dislike Spanish churros (way too greasy for me), I absolutely love Mexican churros.
You can find them almost everywhere, but the churrería El Moro remains the most iconic and historic spot, as it has been open since 1935.
40. Drink aguas frescas
All across Mexico, it’s easy to stay well hydrated thanks to aguas de sabores, which are sold almost everywhere! It’s common to see Mexicans carrying huge glasses, and it’s almost always an agua they’re sipping.
These are traditional drinks made from water and mostly fruits, flowers, or grains. Refreshing, natural, and often lightly sweetened, they’re a great alternative to regular sodas.
I recommend trying agua de jamaica and horchata. Michoacana shops usually offer around ten different flavors at very reasonable prices.
41. Eat Esquites
This is my favorite Mexican snack! Esquites are corn kernels cooked with broth, lime, chili, cheese, and sometimes mayonnaise.
Served in a cup, they’re eaten with a spoon in the street, mostly in the evening. You’ll find many esquites stands in the Doctores neighborhood as well as in the Historic Center.
42. Eat Pozole
After tacos al pastor, my second favorite dish in Mexico City is pozole.
It’s a traditional soup made with white corn, meat (often pork or chicken), and condiments like radish, lettuce, lime, and oregano.
It’s a hearty dish, so avoid planning a long afternoon of walking afterward!
I recommend this restaurant: Santo Pozole.
43. Try the restaurants in Roma Norte
For me, the Roma Norte neighborhood is the best place to try international cuisines as well as vegan gastronomy.
44. Have lunch on a rooftop
Rooftop bars have sprung up like mushrooms in recent years in Mexico City’s historic center!
For a lunch with a view, a romantic dinner, or cocktails with friends, you’ll have plenty of options to spend time high above and watch the city unfold beneath your eyes! Some places even offer live music.
45. Watch a movie at the cinemateca
The Cineteca Nacional is the temple of independent and auteur cinema in Mexico City. Its modern architecture and green spaces make it a pleasant place to visit, even outside of screenings.
You can discover Mexican, international, classic, or contemporary films there, surrounded by locals!
46. Listen to the mariachis at Garibaldi
Garibaldi Plaza is the mariachi hub in Mexico City, especially in the late afternoon. If you want to hear a specific song, you can ask them—but it will probably cost you a few pesos.
It’s a must-visit spot for tourists who want to experience it surrounded by other tourists. I don’t recommend the bars around the plaza.
This is the kind of experience best shared with others. So if you’re traveling solo (or not), I recommend joining a tour. Book here!
47. Attend a Lucha Libre match
Watching a lucha libre match is a vibrant spectacle not to be missed if you visit the city.
Seeing masked wrestlers compete with acrobatics amid the enthusiastic cheers of the crowd is truly an experience.
If you’re interested, check out my article that explains everything you need to know to enjoy this typically Mexican show, or book your ticket directly!
48. Get a limpia
If you’re into spirituality, you can’t leave the city without experiencing a limpia!
This ancient ritual aims to cleanse your energy using herbs, eggs, prayers, and incense. It’s not only a unique experience but also a way to learn more about Mexican traditions blending shamanism and popular beliefs.
You can get a limpia near the cathedral or in the Jardín Centenario in Coyoacan, but for a less touristy experience, I recommend the markets, especially the one in Sonora.
49. Do a street art tour
Mexico City is a capital where art in all its forms is very present. So naturally, street art is definitely part of the scene.
You’ll find artworks all over the city, but I especially recommend those decorating the buildings along Eje 1 Norte Mosqueta.
50. Historic Center
Beyond the landmarks I mentioned above, the Historic Center is full of places just as rich in history.
I highly recommend wandering around at your own pace. Don’t hesitate to step into the old shops or slightly obscure shopping arcades!
Between colonial history, architectural treasures, and lively street scenes, it’s a truly unique neighborhood. For a first-time visit — and to avoid getting lost — why not join a guided tour?
51. Coyoacan
Coyoacán is usually tourists’ favorite neighborhood — a colorful and charming area!
With its cobblestone streets, vibrant houses, and shady plazas, it’s home to some of the country’s most iconic and historic spots.
To make sure you don’t miss any must-see places or juicy anecdotes, I recommend joining a free walking tour!
52. Xochimilco
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Xochimilco is famous for its canals and brightly colored trajineras (flat-bottomed boats).
Aboard one of these boats, to the rhythm of mariachis and floating street vendors, you’ll drift along the water.
I recommend going on the weekend to soak up the lively atmosphere!
If you’re traveling solo, you might want to skip it — it’s really an experience best enjoyed with others. I did it alone, and it just didn’t have the same charm.
That said, you can also join a group tour. It’s a great way to experience it with others and even make some new friends! Just watch out for the unlimited drinks!
53. San Angel
Increasingly popular with tourists, the neighborhood of San Ángel has a unique charm that’s reminiscent of Coyoacán!
Its cobblestone streets, lined with colonial-style buildings, sit alongside old churches and elegant houses covered in bougainvillea.
On Saturdays, the artisan market draws art lovers, handmade craft enthusiasts, and curious visitors alike!
54. Iztapalapa
If you truly want to gain a broader understanding of the Mexican megacity, I recommend visiting Iztapalapa, a neighborhood like no other.
Located in the east of Mexico City, it charms visitors with its colorful markets and innovative cultural initiatives.
But what really draws curious travelers is its 10-kilometer cable car, which offers aerial views of the surrounding hills and, most impressively, of the street murals that have turned the area into an open-air museum.
It’s not the safest area, so I strongly recommend visiting with a guide.
55. Chinese Neighborhood
It might be the smallest Chinatown in the world, but that doesn’t take away from its lively charm. With its lanterns and Chinese arches, it’s a perfect spot for a quick change of scenery just steps away from the historic center.
However, I wouldn’t recommend eating there — you’ll find much better Chinese restaurants elsewhere in the city.
56. San Rafael
San Rafael is one of my favorite neighborhoods! Once an upscale bourgeois area, it’s now experiencing an artistic revival.
With its elegant architecture, independent galleries, and alternative theaters, it offers a peaceful yet fascinating walk through a lesser-known side of Mexico City.
57. santa maria de la ribera
Another neighborhood I love—and it’s super peaceful too! With its beautiful Alameda, old houses, and the stunning Moorish kiosk that’s as iconic as it is gorgeous, it’s a perfect place to slow down the pace.
Little known to tourists, it’s a great spot to mingle with locals in cafés, bookstores, and museums (like the Geology Museum). Discover it during a free walking tour!
58. Chimalistac
A hidden gem between Coyoacán and San Ángel, Chimalistac is a historic and very peaceful neighborhood with narrow streets lined with volcanic stone walls. In short, you’ll love photographing it from every angle.
Don’t miss its old bridges, chapels, and the calm atmosphere—sometimes you might not even cross paths with a single person.
59. Basilica de Guadalupe
Within just a few days in Mexico, you’ll notice that the Virgin of Guadalupe is everywhere! So it’s no surprise that the Basilica of Guadalupe is one of the most sacred sites in the country and a major Catholic pilgrimage destination.
It houses the cloak of the Virgin of Guadalupe, the patron saint of Mexico, who appeared in 1531 to the Indigenous man Juan Diego. The site includes several churches, chapels, and a lively esplanade filled with the faithful.
Even if you’re not religious, I highly recommend visiting this iconic place and soaking in its spiritual atmosphere.
Take advantage of this guided tour, which includes transportation, to explore this major pilgrimage site.
60. Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan is the one excursion no tourist skips when visiting Mexico City.
Located about an hour away, it’s an ancient pre-Hispanic city known for its impressive Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon.
It’s one of the most important archaeological sites in Latin America, and it’s actually quite easy to visit on your own. I explain everything you need to know in this article.
But if you’d rather go with a guide and make the most of the experience, you can book a tour here.
FAQ
Of course, it all depends on your tastes, but here are the attractions I recommend as a priority: the Cathedral, the Templo Mayor, the National Museum of Anthropology, Chapultepec Park, the Coyoacán neighborhood, and the Teotihuacan pyramids.
I’m a big fan of slow travel, so to truly explore the city and experience life like a local, I recommend spending 15 days in Mexico City. You’ll love the city anyway and probably want to stay much longer.
If you’re short on time, 3–4 days will give you a general overview of the city, allowing you to see the main sights and get a brief taste of the local food.
For me, the best time to visit Mexico City is between February and April, when the weather starts to warm up and there’s little rain.
October and November are also pleasant months, and you can see the city getting ready to celebrate Día de los Muertos, although I recommend Oaxaca to fully experience this festival.
Finally, be aware that from June to September, it rains a lot.
If you’re traveling light, I recommend taking the metro from the airport to reach your accommodation. It’s very easy to navigate. You’ll need to buy a rechargeable card from one of the machines available.
Of course, you can also take an Uber, which I consider the most convenient option. There are also kiosks inside the airport where you can pay for an official taxi that will pick you up.
Yes, Uber is available in Mexico City and works very well.
Prices are affordable, and waiting times are short.
It’s the mode of transport I choose to get to and from the airport and bus stations, as well as at night. The rest of the time, I get around on foot or using public transportation.
Mexico City is a safe city. During my various stays, I’ve walked through many neighborhoods alone, even late at night, and never felt in danger. In fact, I don’t know any of my friends living there who have ever had any issues.
Of course, my experience isn’t universal, and it’s recommended to take some precautions:
- Learn about the neighborhoods you plan to visit
- Use Uber at night
- Avoid carrying valuable items
I’ve always traveled alone in Mexico City and have always felt safe.
However, I do try to follow the locals’ style to avoid unwanted attention. This means avoiding crop tops and short skirts, especially since I stay in neighborhoods that aren’t touristy at all.
Also, note that public transport has women-only carriages on the metro and reserved seats on buses.
I’m of South Asian descent and have never had any issues. I blend in fairly easily, though I sometimes notice stares.
A Black friend of mine spent several days in the capital and experienced persistent stares, with some people wanting to touch her hair or take photos of her.
I hope these 60 things to do in Mexico City for slow travelers help you make the most of the Mexican capital! If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments.
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Sharyn
I’m looking to move to Mexico and hope to spend a lot of time in Mexico City so all your suggestions will come in handy as I discover the city for myself.
Audrey
Oh, that’s amazing you’re planning to live there! I hope you have a wonderful time, and let me know if you try any of my suggestions
Samantha
Incredible tips! Slow travel is right up my alley, and I’m dying to visit Mexico City! Pozole, tacos…. Oh man, sign me up!
Audrey
I’m sure you’ll love the city—it’s absolutely perfect for slow travelers.
Traveling Cats
What an amazing city. I love all things spooky, so I would definitely try the Callejon de Aguacate and the cemetery.
Audrey
Make sure to check out Callejón del Aguacate early in the night—it’s way spookier then
Julia
Hello! What a decent list! I haven’t known there are so many museums and art galleries in Mexico. They seem to be definitely worth visiting, when travelling to the city.
Audrey
Actually, there are so many of them that I plan to write an article about the best museums there, and the best part is that most of them are free, at least one day a week. 🙂
Stephanie
Im heading back to mexico city and this list is so good! I was only able to do a few things on my trip but want to visit IZTAPALAPA and Chilmalistac. THank you for this, it will be so helpufl with planning my trip!
Audrey
Oh, I am so glad to read your comment and to know that my article will be helpful. You will love both of these neighborhoods. Enjoy!