Your Mexico City Guide: Where to Eat, Stay, and Explore in CDMX

This Mexico City Guide is your starting point for exploring one of the world’s most fascinating capitals. Sitting 7,000 feet above sea level, Mexico City was built on the ruins of the ancient Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán, once a glimmering island city before being conquered by Hernán Cortés in the 16th century.

Today, Mexico City is a vibrant blend of past and present. Aztec ruins sit beside Spanish cathedrals and world-renowned museums. You’ll find striking architecture, lush green parks, dynamic neighborhoods, and one of the most exciting culinary scenes anywhere.

Planning a trip? Let me help you create a personalized Mexico City experience through my custom travel planning services. Whether you’re into food, history, design, or adventure, I’ll craft an itinerary that fits your unique style, interests, and budget.

Mexico City Guide: The Essentials 

Before diving into all the things to see, eat, and do, here are a few essentials to help you navigate Mexico City with ease. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or adding it to a longer Mexico itinerary, this Mexico City Guide has you covered.

Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN), symbol: $
Language: Spanish
Airport: Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez (MEX)

Aerial view of Mexico City’s iconic Angel of Independence monument

💵 Cost of Traveling in Mexico City

One of the best things about CDMX? It suits any travel budget. Here’s a rough Mexico City guide to daily expenses:

• Budget (€30) – hostels, street food, metro, and museums 
• Mid-range (€60–90) – vacation rental, dining out, bars, ubers
• Comfortable (€100+) – boutique hotels, fine dining, bespoke tours

🗣️ Language Tips for Tourists

While around half the people we interacted with spoke some English, it’s incredibly helpful to learn a few basic Spanish phrases. Locals genuinely appreciate the effort.

✅ We spent about four months casually learning via Duolingo and YouTube, which made a big difference in our daily interactions.

Key Phrases to Know:

• Hola – Hello
• Mucho gusto – Nice to meet you
• Estuvo delicioso – That was delicious
• Qué tal – What’s up
• Gracias – Thank you
• Por favor – Please
• Salud – Cheers

Cocktail Making Class Setup

Best Time to Visit 

As any well-rounded Mexico City Guide will tell you, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from October through April. This is a fantastic time to explore the city — sunny days, crisp blue skies, and cooler nights that call for a light jacket or hoodie. Expect evening temperatures to dip to around 7–10°C (45–50°F) during this season.

The rainy season falls between May and September, bringing warmer days and afternoon showers. If you don’t mind a little rain, it’s still a beautiful and vibrant time to visit, with fewer tourists at major attractions.

Ideal Length of Stay

If there’s one thing every Mexico City Guide will agree on, it’s this: you could spend a year here and still feel like there’s more to discover. With its endless neighborhoods, cultural landmarks, markets, museums, and restaurants, the city offers a deep well of experiences.

For a first visit, 3 to 4 days is just enough time. This gives you enough time to see the city’s most famous sights and explore a few of its standout neighborhoods, like Roma, Condesa, Centro Histórico, and Coyoacán.

If your schedule allows, 7 to 10 days in Mexico City lets you dive deeper into the city’s food scene, arts, and hidden gems without feeling rushed. This will allowed for a more relaxed pace and a day trip to Teotihuacán — an incredible ancient site.

The Majestic Pyramid of the Sun

Getting Around Mexico City: Transportation Tips

No Mexico City Guide would be complete without helping you navigate this sprawling metropolis. Luckily, getting around is relatively easy with a few insider tips.

Uber is widely used and one of the safest, most convenient ways to get from place to place. I recommend choosing Uber Black over the regular categories for better reliability and comfort. It’s still affordable by international standards.

When it comes to taxis, always stick to official ones — either from a designated taxi stand (sitio) or arranged through your hotel or restaurant. Avoid hailing cabs off the street, especially at night.

The Metro is cheap and extensive, with 12 lines crisscrossing the city. However, it can get very crowded, particularly during rush hour. If you’re comfortable navigating a subway system and want to avoid traffic, it’s a solid option — just keep your belongings secure.

Walking is a great way to explore neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, Coyoacán, and Centro Histórico. These areas are very pedestrian-friendly and packed with cafes, markets, and street art.

Mexico City’s size and traffic can be intense, so allow extra time when moving between neighborhoods — especially if you have timed tickets or dinner reservations..

Bright orange CDMX metro train

🚇 Public Transport Safety in Mexico City

Public transportation is an affordable and efficient way to get around the city — but like any urban metro system, it requires caution:

• 🎒 Wear backpacks on your chest, with both straps over your shoulders.
• 👜 Keep bags zipped and close to your body.
• 🚫 Don’t store anything in your front or back pockets.
• 🕔 Avoid rush hour (7–9am & 5–7pm) if you want a calmer ride.

Where to Stay in Mexico City – Boutique Hotels & Cool Neighborhoods

This Mexico City Guide breaks down the most popular areas to help you decide based on your vibe, preferences, and proximity to top attractions.

Each neighborhood offers its own personality — from buzzing nightlife to laid-back, leafy streets. When choosing where to stay in Mexico City, consider what kind of atmosphere you want, plus ease of transportation and how close you’ll be to the sights you want to see.

🏛️ Centro Histórico

Walking distance to major landmarks like the Zócalo, Palacio de Bellas Artes, and Templo Mayor.

The area is packed with restaurants, bars, affordable accommodation, and some of the city’s best street food. It’s great for convenience and cultural immersion, but keep in mind: it can be loud, busy, and not the most relaxing after a long day of exploring.

🌿 Roma Norte

One of the most beloved neighborhoods in any Mexico City Guide. Roma Norte is picture-perfect, with tree-lined streets, restored colonial buildings, trendy cafes, and amazing restaurants.

It’s ideal for travelers seeking a walkable, artsy, and stylish area with a chill vibe — and it’s close to both Parque México and Chapultepec Park.

🌳 La Condesa

Right next to Roma Norte, La Condesa has a similar feel but tends to be a bit livelier, especially after dark.

Known for nightlife, mezcal bars, and cool lounges, it’s also home to scenic parks like Parque México and Parque España — perfect for relaxing after a night out.

Charming storefront in La Condesa

🎉 Zona Rosa

Located next to the historic center, Zona Rosa is known for its dynamic energy, shopping, and vibrant nightlife. It’s also the most LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhood in the city. Expect everything from international restaurants and bars to big markets and cultural events.

🎨 Coyoacán

Colorful, artsy, and full of local charm, Coyoacán feels like a small town within the city. It’s a bit farther out (about 40 minutes south of Centro), but well worth it for the relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.

It’s home to the Frida Kahlo Museum, traditional markets, and leafy plazas. Great for families, creatives, and those seeking a slower pace.

💎 Polanco

If luxury is your priority, Polanco is the place. Think high-end hotels, world-class restaurants, sleek cocktail bars, and designer shopping on Avenida Masaryk — known as the “Rodeo Drive of Mexico City.”

It’s stylish, safe, and upscale, but noticeably more expensive than other areas.

Best Boutique & Luxury Hotels in Mexico City

This curated list of boutique and luxury hotels is tailored to fit every kind of traveler — from design lovers to solo explorers. Each property in this Mexico City Guide offers something special, whether it’s rooftop views, historic charm, or VIP treatment.

✨ Stylish & Design-Forward Stays

Casa Polanco – A sleek 19-room contemporary mansion in Polanco with gorgeous outdoor areas.

La Valise Mexico City – An eight-room hidden gem in Roma where each suite spans an entire floor.

The Cilene Suite @ La Valise

💎 Luxury Classics & Big Names

Las Alcobas – A sophisticated boutique hotel in Polanco. Great for couples and solo travelers.
The St. Regis Mexico City – Grand and luxurious, with stunning skyline views, and an AMAZING brunch – You might even see a celebrity there.

🎉 Trendy & Lively Neighborhood Favorites

Condesa DF – A 20-room boutique stay with a historic façade and lively rooftop.
Mondrian Mexico City Condesa – Bold and buzzy, right where Condesa meets Roma.

💌 Book with Me & Get More (At No Extra Cost!)

When you book through me, you’ll unlock exclusive Travel Chief Global Perks designed to make your stay even more romantic and personalized. These complimentary perks are my way of saying thank you—and making sure your trip feels extra special from start to finish.

Here’s what you’ll receive:

• 💳 $100 hotel or resort credit
• 🥐 Daily breakfast for two
• 🚪 Room upgrades whenever available
• ⏰ Flexible check-in and check-out when possible

All you have to do? Email me your travel dates at janice.escobar@fora.travel, and I’ll take care of the rest—stress-free planning, VIP treatment, and a getaway you’ll never forget. ✨

Entrance to Casa Polanco

⚠️ Neighborhoods to Avoid

While Mexico City is generally safe for tourists, it’s wise to avoid certain areas due to higher crime rates:

• Tepito
• Doctores
• Iztapalapa
• Ciudad Neza

These neighborhoods are outside most tourist itineraries anyway, so it’s unlikely you’ll need to venture there.

Mexico City Itinerary Guide: What to Do, See & Explore

You certainly won’t be bored in Mexico City (CDMX) as there are a seemingly endless number of things to see and do in this vibrant megapolis.

With over 150 museums and countless cultural landmarks, the city is a paradise for explorers and travelers alike. If you’re looking to dive deeper into the local culture, check out Viator for guided tours, excursions, and unique experiences like cooking classes, cocktail-making workshops. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to this fascinating city.

🌄 Hot Air Balloon Ride – A Thrilling Start to Your Adventure

Start your trip to Mexico City with a hot air balloon ride! This breathtaking experience gives you stunning aerial views of the city, including the Pyramids of Teotihuacán.

If you’re looking for a unique adventure, this is the perfect way to kick off your time in Mexico City — and it’s a great option to do early in your trip, just in case you run into any food-related hiccups later (food poisoning is a common travel issue!).

Hot air balloons floating over Teotihuacan at sunrise

🌴 Tolantongo Hot Springs – Insta-Worthy, But Plan Wisely

Tolantongo Hot Springs are stunning, often featured in Instagram photos, but the reality can be a bit different. The journey to reach them is long, so it’s wise to leave early or even stay the night nearby. If you want to enjoy the hot springs to their fullest, plan ahead for a more relaxed, less rushed experience.

🏛️ Architectural and Artistic Gems: Barragán, Rivera & Kahlo

Mexico City is full of architectural gems. Head to Casa Estudio Luis Barragán, a mid-century modern masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site, to admire the sleek concrete design and innovative spaces.

Don’t miss Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo in San Ángel, the shared home of the famous couple, designed by muralist Juan O’Gorman.

🏙️ Lucha Libre – A Fun Slice of Mexican Culture

If you’re in Mexico City, don’t miss the chance to experience Lucha Libre, Mexico’s iconic wrestling matches. The high-energy fights and the masked wrestlers create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Even if you’re not a fan of wrestling, it’s a unique cultural experience that adds to the excitement of the city. You can easily pop in and out, making it a flexible and fun addition to your itinerary.

Spectacular lucha libre wrestling match

🖼️ Mexico City’s Museum Scene – World-Class Art & History

With over 150 museums, Mexico City’s museum scene is world-class. A must-visit is the Museo Nacional de Antropología, one of the country’s most-visited museums, showcasing stunning artifacts from Mexico’s pre-Hispanic history.

Nearby, you’ll find Museo Nacional de Historia Castillo de Chapultepec, a national history museum housed in a hilltop castle. Art lovers will also want to explore the Museo Tamayo, dedicated to contemporary art, and Museo Soumaya, which displays Carlos Slim’s private collection.

🎨 Coyoacán: Home of Frida & Diego

For fans of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, a day in Coyoacán is essential. This charming neighborhood is home to Casa Azul, Frida’s former home, as well as Museo Anahuacalli, Rivera’s studio.

To complete your artistic tour, visit Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo in San Ángel, where the pair lived together. After your museum visit, enjoy a refreshing margarita at San Ángel Inn, just across the street.

🛶 Xochimilco – A Relaxing, but Overhyped, Tour

If you’re curious about Mexico City’s floating gardens, head to Xochimilco for a boat ride along the canals. It’s a colorful and unique experience, but be prepared — it’s very crowded, chaotic, and can feel quite dirty.

That said, it was still a fun outing, especially eating lunch on the trajinera (traditional boat) while watching vendors hop on and off to sell food, drinks, and souvenirs. Renting a boat typically costs 500–600 pesos per hour (around $25–30 USD), and that price is for the whole boat, so it’s very affordable if you’re with a group. Prices can vary by embarcadero (boat launch) and may require some negotiation, so always confirm before boarding.

For a more curated experience, you can also book a tour that includes food, drinks, and even mariachi music, though these tend to run $50–70 USD per person.

Vibrant trajineras in the ancient canals of Xochimilco

🏛️ Explore Mexico City’s Centro Histórico

The Centro Histórico is a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to iconic historical buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Templo Mayor, the Aztec ruins of Tenochtitlan.

Other must-see landmarks include the beautiful Palacio de Bellas Artes, an Art Nouveau masterpiece, and the Palacio Nacional, where Diego Rivera’s murals are on display. If you prefer a more intimate experience, consider visiting Museo Mural Diego Rivera for a closer look at his incredible works.

🛍️ Markets to Explore

Mexico City’s markets are an experience in themselves. For gourmet and hip finds, check out Mercado Roma. If you’re after something more traditional, visit El Bazaar Sábado in San Ángel, a Saturday market where you can pick up everything from crafts and flowers to art and delicious local food.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Mexico City: A Food Lover’s Mexico City Guide
If you’re crafting the ultimate Mexico City guide, no section would be complete without diving into the city’s incredible food scene. With over 40,000 restaurants in the capital, you’ll find everything from traditional Mexican flavors to global cuisines — all with a CDMX twist.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular spots like Pujol or Quintonil, which often book out weeks in advance. If you’re staying at a hotel, give the concierge team a call ahead of your trip — they can often help you secure a table. Or, simply let your travel agent know you’d like some help making reservations.

Authentic street tacos with fresh lime and Jarritos

🌟 Fine Dining Highlights in Mexico City

• Pujol – A must in any serious Mexico City guide, Enrique Olvera’s legendary restaurant offers a stunning tasting menu that reimagines traditional Mexican dishes in an elegant setting.
• Quintonil – Helmed by chef Jorge Vallejo and Alejandra Flores, Quintonil consistently ranks among the world’s best restaurants, thanks to its inventive use of local ingredients.
• Máximo Bistrot – Contemporary Mexican cuisine with French flair, set in a cozy, rustic space.

🌿 Local Favorites and Hidden Gems

• Azul Histórico – A great place to refuel in the Centro Histórico, set in a stunning colonial courtyard.
• Páramo – A lively late-night cantina with amazing tacos, mezcal cocktails, and the best vibes in Roma Norte.
• Em – A cozy, candlelit favorite known for seasonal menus and small local producers.

💡 Insider Tip from this Mexico City guide: For a local’s curated list of where to eat, check out this Google Map of top restaurants in Mexico City.

🌮 Must-Try Dishes in Mexico City

Add these traditional dishes to your Mexico City food guide bucket list:

• Tacos al Pastor – Marinated pork carved straight from the spit, topped with onion, cilantro, and pineapple.
• Pozole – A hominy-based soup with pork or chicken, garnished with lime, cabbage, radish, and salsa.
• Tlacoyos – Oval-shaped blue corn masa filled with beans or cheese, often topped with nopales and salsa.
• Elote – Grilled street corn slathered with mayo, cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder.
• Peneques – Fried masa pockets filled with cheese, served in tomato sauce.
  Frutas en Tacha – A seasonal dessert of fruit simmered in cinnamon-spiced syrup.

🍹 Where to Drink in Mexico City

No Mexico City guide would be complete without mentioning the buzzing bar scene. Roma Norte and Condesa are known for their craft cocktail culture, mezcalerías, and speakeasies.

Try a smoky mezcal cocktail or sip on a Michelada at a rooftop bar as the sun sets over the city. For a world-class cocktail experience, book a spot at Handshake Speakeasy — consistently ranked among the best bars in the world for its innovative drinks and intimate vibe.

Banana Split Cocktail @ Handshake Speakeasy

💸 Tipping Culture in Mexico City

When it comes to tipping, here’s what you need to know:

• 💰 10% is standard for restaurants and bars.
• 💯 15–20% is appreciated for exceptional service.
• 🍴 No tip is expected for street food, but small change is always welcome.
• 🧾 Service is not included in most bills.

Pro tip: Some waitstaff may expect higher tips, so it helps to carry small denominations and tip based on service quality.

😬 Avoiding “Moctezuma’s Revenge”

One common issue many travelers face is a stomach bug — affectionately nicknamed Moctezuma’s Revenge. Due to different bacteria in the local food and water, many tourists experience digestive upset, especially if eating street food or raw vegetables.

That said, Mexico City street food is absolutely worth it — the flavors are unforgettable! Just be prepared:

• Bring anti-diarrhea tablets (essential for long journeys).
• Stick to bottled or filtered water — never drink tap water.
• Consider a filtered water bottle like LifeStraw or Water-To-Go.
• Check if your accommodation offers safe drinking water.
• Buy large water bottles at Oxxo, supermarkets, or pharmacies (we picked up a 20L jug for just €2–3!)

🛡️ Is Mexico City Safe? Your No-Nonsense Mexico City Guide to Staying Smart & Secure

One of the most common questions travelers ask is: “Is Mexico City safe?” The short answer in this Mexico City guide is: yes — for the most part, it is.

There’s no denying that Mexico has its challenges, but a lot of what you hear in the media can be sensationalized or exaggerated. The reality is that Mexico City welcomes millions of tourists each year, and the vast majority have trouble-free, amazing experiences.

👀 Mexico City Guide to Staying Safe

If you’ve visited any major city, the same common sense travel safety tips apply:

• Be street-smart: Stay aware, especially in crowded areas.
• Avoid unsafe neighborhoods (see previous section for specifics).
• Trust your gut: If something feels off, it probably is.
• Stick to well-lit, busy streets, especially at night.
• Don’t flash valuables or wear flashy jewelry.

🚺 Female Travelers: Use Women-Only Areas

If you’re a solo female traveler, Mexico City actually has some helpful safety measures in place:

• 🟪 On the metro, use the first carriages, which are reserved for women and children only.
• 🟩 On buses, look for clearly marked female-only sections, typically at the front or back.
• 👮‍♀️ These areas are monitored and help create a more comfortable experience during your travels.

👮‍♂️ A Note on Police & Tourist Scams

While it’s rare, some tourists have reported police corruption, where police demand cash for minor infractions — or even threatening jail time.

To avoid issues:

• ✅ Know local laws. For example, public drinking is illegal, even if it’s common in your home country.
• 🧾 Ask for official documentation if stopped.
• 🚶‍♀️ Stay polite and calm — escalating can make things worse.

🎊 Annual Cultural Events in Mexico City – Month-by-Month Mexico City Guide

Looking to plan your visit around the city’s vibrant cultural scene? This month-by-month Mexico City guide outlines some of the best festivals and events, from music and art to traditional celebrations.

🇲🇽 January in Mexico City

• Festival del Centro Histórico – This iconic cultural event kicks off the year with concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions celebrating Mexico City’s historic heart.
  
• Día de los Reyes Magos (January 6) – Families gather to share Rosca de Reyes and enjoy parades and community festivities, especially in parks and public plazas

🎭 February in Mexico City

• Zona MACO – Latin America’s largest contemporary art fair draws artists, collectors, and visitors from around the globe.
  
• Carnaval – While more prominent in other regions, some Mexico City neighborhoods host colorful parades with lively music and traditional costumes.

🎶 March in Mexico City

• Vive Latino – One of Latin America’s top music festivals, featuring a mix of rock, indie, and Latin music.
  
• Festival del Centro Histórico (continued) – Cultural activities continue into March with more art, theater, and performances throughout the city center.

🌸 April in Mexico City

• Feria de las Flores de San Ángel – A beautiful flower fair with parades, exhibits, and traditional crafts in one of Mexico City’s most charming neighborhoods.
  
• Semana Santa (Holy Week) – Religious processions and cultural events take over the city, reflecting centuries of tradition.

📚 May in Mexico City

• Feria Internacional del Libro en el Zócalo – A huge open-air book fair in the city’s main square, with author talks, workshops, and literary fun.
  
• Cinco de Mayo (May 5) – While more low-key in the capital, there are still commemorative events, particularly in the Puebla district.

🎨 June in Mexico City

• FICUNAM (Festival Internacional de Cine de la UNAM) – A cutting-edge film festival showcasing independent and avant-garde cinema.
  
• Mexico City Pride Parade – One of the biggest LGBTQ+ events in Latin America, featuring colorful floats, concerts, and street parties.

🎆 July in Mexico City

• Guelaguetza in Mexico City – A celebration of Oaxacan culture, featuring regional dance, music, and traditional food in various venues across the city.
  
• Summer Cultural Workshops – Museums and cultural centers offer interactive programs and creative activities for kids and families.

🎭 August in Mexico City

• Macabro Film Festival – A spooky and stylish horror film festival presenting international genre films.
  
• Festival de las Artes Escénicas – A performing arts celebration with theater, contemporary dance, and live music throughout the city.

🎉 September in Mexico City

• Independence Day (September 16) – Join locals for the “Grito de Dolores,” fireworks, and festive parades celebrating Mexico’s independence.
  
• Feria Internacional del Libro Infantil y Juvenil – A lively children’s and YA book fair with games, readings, and cultural programming.

💀 October in Mexico City

• Festival Internacional Cervantino (Mexico City Edition) – Although based in Guanajuato, related performances and events also take place in Mexico City.
  
• Día de Muertos Preparations Begin – Altars, marigolds, and skull motifs start appearing all over the city in anticipation of the Day of the Dead.

🕯️ November in Mexico City

• Día de Muertos (November 1–2) – Don’t miss the Mega Procession of Catrinas, vibrant altars, and the famous Day of the Dead Parade the Saturday before.
  
• Feria de las Calacas – A family-friendly festival with art, music, and workshops focused on Día de Muertos traditions.

🎄 December in Mexico City

• Festival de Luces – Sparkling light installations and immersive shows illuminate the city during the holiday season.
  
• Posadas Navideñas – Traditional Mexican Christmas processions with songs, piñatas, food, and community celebrations.

📌 Pro Tip: For up-to-date event listings, check:

• Mexico City’s Cultural Billboard
• Resident Advisor  – For local shows

🌟 Your Personalized Mexico City Guide Starts Here

This Mexico City guide may feel like a lot to take in — but that’s exactly where I come in. Everything above is just a taste of what this vibrant city has to offer.

Whether you’re dreaming of tacos at midnight, sunrise views from a rooftop pool, or private art tours through hidden galleries, I’ll design a trip that fits your vibe perfectly. Think custom itineraries, VIP perks, and priority status at the city’s best hotels — all tailored just for you.

Ready to plan your unforgettable CDMX adventure? Email me at Janice.Escobar@fora.travel to get started

✨ Bonus Travel Planning Links

✔️ Need airport transfers or curated tours? Click here
✔️ Browse our favorite travel resources & recs we actually use
✔️Oaxaca Day of the Dead Guide: How to Celebrate Mexico’s Most Iconic Festival
✔️ Love this guide? Share it with friends & fam who’d enjoy a little Mexico magic, too 💖