Why Visit Mexico City? Top Things to Do in Mexico City 2026

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WHY VISIT MEXICO CITY?

This is a question I must have been asked dozens of times, usually with a perplexed look and a raised eyebrow, in the weeks leading up to a long overdue girlfriend getaway to this bustling city of 22 million.

I had visited Mexico City (often referred to as CDMX) twice before, with this Latin American hub being a common stopover for cheap flights to South America (including a memorable double red-eye to Quito). On those trips, I had been lucky enough to have a friend living in the city. She was a superb host, and her well-chosen highlights made me fall head-over-heels in love with the city’s vibrant beauty.

Mexico City won out over several other destinations for our friends’ getaway because it seemed to meet our lengthy criteria. We were looking for somewhere that was culturally rich, had progressive cuisine, interesting design, good shopping, and yet, was affordable.

A direct flight was an added bonus as we were coming from different cities (you may be aware that we are not currently in the golden age of travel and flying can be a real drag).

In the end, our long weekend in Mexico City was exactly what we wanted it to be. If you are wondering “Is Mexico City worth visiting?”, I sure hope the following list will convince you to give it a try!

MEXICO CITY VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS

To get you into a CDMX state of mind, start with this 90-second video featuring what I think are the best things to do in Mexico City.

10 REASONS TO VISIT MEXICO CITY

1. EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH THE CITY

You’d be hard-pressed to find a major food publication that hasn’t talked about Mexico City’s restaurants, chefs, and street food in recent years. In 2024, Michelin finally took notice with its first Mexico City recommendations.

As of 2025, the city holds a combined 12 Michelin stars, including two restaurants with two stars (Quintonil and Pujol). From flavour-packed tacos and tortas to progressive, beautifully plated dishes in some seriously impressive dining rooms, you could spend months here and still feel like you barely scratched the surface.

TIP: Make reservations early! Top tables such as Enrique Olvera’s Pujol, Gabriela Cámara’s Contramar, and Jorge Vallejo’s Quintonil book out months in advance. They are all well worth the effort though!

No luck with reservations? Get on the waitlist. At the last minute, we managed to snag a 9:45 p.m. reservation at Quintonil—with a little nudge from our hotel concierge.

That said, don’t stress if you can’t get into your top picks. Mexico City has so many excellent restaurants that it would take months to get through even a fraction of them. I’m going to list a few helpful resources at the end of this post, but I also want to emphasize that great food here doesn’t have to be expensive. On our last trip, we ate at the Michelin-recommended Ricos Tacos Taluca for about $10 per person.

And if you have a sweet tooth, Mexico City will keep you very happy. From pastries to churros, it’s easy to find a delicious treat at almost any hour. Panadería Rosetta is the obvious standout—its guava pastry has a cult following for a reason.

For something more traditional, El Moro is the classic spot for churros and hot chocolate, with several locations around the city and consistently good quality. Between the bakeries, cafés, and street stalls, you won’t run out of options.

2. ENJOY THE YEAR-ROUND SUNSHINE

Mexico City’s subtropical climate means that it is comfortably warm for most of the year. Daytime highs range from 22-28°C (72-83°F). Nights are cooler with a range of 6-14°C (43-57°F).

When is the best time to visit Mexico City?

March to May is the best time of year to visit Mexico City. The days are warm and there is typically little rain. It is also the time of the year when the beautiful Jacaranda trees bloom, making what is already a very colourful city even brighter.

June through September is low season with the warmest and wettest weather. The winter months of November to February are cooler but there is little rain.

NOTE: During our recent April trip, we saw typical summer weather with afternoon thunderstorms, so we planned all of our outdoor activities for the morning hours.

3. EXPLORE THE PARKS AND GREEN NEIGHBOURHOODS

One of the most surprising things to discover about Mexico City is how green it is. From living walls to shaded promenades, there is beautiful foliage everywhere!

Mexico City’s Chapultepec Park, (also referred to as the city’s “lungs”) is an astounding 686 hectares, making it twice as big as NYC’s Central Park. This green-space gem borders some of the city’s most desirable neighbourhoods (Condesa, Roma, Polanco etc.) and plays host to walkers, joggers, dancers, cyclists and more.

Within the neighbourhoods themselves, you’ll also find a number of smaller parks that locals use daily. Parque México in Condesa is one of the most popular, with Art Deco details, ponds, and plenty of shade. Just next door, Parque España has a slightly more casual feel and is great for people-watching. In Polanco, Parque Lincoln in Polanco offers leafy paths, sculptures, and even an aviary—an easy stop if you’re exploring the area’s cafés and shops.

Many of Mexico City’s neighbourhood streets are divided by lush, walkable boulevards, perfect for strolling or jogging. And if you’re a dog lover, you’ll feel right at home—these paths are full of dog walkers at all hours, and the city’s parks are some of the most dog-friendly you’ll find anywhere.

FUN FACT: Mexico ranks second in the world for pet ownership (after the U.S.), and most of those pets are dogs.

4. CYCLE THE CITY ON CAR-FREE SUNDAYS

On Sundays, Mexico City hosts Muévete en Bici, a car-free cycling event that opens major streets—including those running through Chapultepec Park—from 8am to 2pm. The quietest (and nicest) time to go is between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m., before the crowds build.

While the city’s EcoBici bike-share system is an option, it can be a bit finicky for visitors (like not accepting many foreign credit cards), so you’re usually better off borrowing bikes from your hotel or renting from a private shop such as Bike Rentals Polanco.

NOTE: After five trips to CDMX, this is still one of my favourite activities. Being able to see the city safely by bike is such a treat.

5. VISIT WORLD-CLASS MUSEUMS

Did you know that Mexico City has more than 150 museums? Most visitors make a beeline for Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul (which is, of course, a must-see), but there are so many more to choose from.

You could spend days in Chapultepec Park alone, for example, with 9 different museums to choose from including the very highly regarded Museo Nacional de Antropología and the contemporary Museo Tamayo.

Another whole day could be spent exploring the museums in the upscale Polanco neighbourhood. The Museo Soumaya houses the personal collection of Carlos Slim (one of the richest people in the world) including works by Diego Rivera and Rufino Tamayo, as well as those of many European masters.

BONUS: The Soumaya is open seven days a week and is always free.

When you have had your fill of the classics, hop next door to The Jumex contemporary museum where you will find works by Damien Hurst, Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons and more.

NOTE: Most museums close on Mondays.

6. WALK THE UNESCO HISTORIC CENTRE

Mexico City’s Historic Center is one of the most interesting areas to explore, and walking is the best way to take it in. This UNESCO-listed district is home to major landmarks such as the Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral, Templo Mayor, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes. The latter houses murals by Diego Rivera and Rufino Tamayo and remains an important performing arts venue.

The scale of the architecture is impressive, and you can easily spend a few hours wandering the pedestrian streets, stepping into courtyards, or watching daily life unfold around the square. If you want more context, short guided walking tours are widely available and can help bring the area’s history to life.

Viator offers several excellent tours of the Historical Centre. If you want a more in-depth tour, go with Context Travel.

• Walking Tour of the Historical Centre (Viator 3hrs)
• Historical Centre Walking Food Tour (Viator 3hrs)
• An Introduction to Mexico City (Context 3hrs)

NOTE: A quick note for visitors: the Historic Centre is a common spot for protests. They’re usually peaceful, but they can make the area busy or noisy. This part of the city also has higher levels of petty theft due to the crowds, so keep bags zipped and phones secure. It’s not a reason to completely avoid the area—millions pass through daily—but it’s good to stay aware while you explore.

7. EXPERIENCE A MEXICAN WRESTLING MATCH

No visit to Mexico City is complete without experiencing Lucha Libre, Mexico’s iconic professional wrestling. Matches take place several nights a week—typically Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at Arena México, and Saturdays at Arena Coliseo. The energy is incredible: masks, theatrics, passionate fans, loud chants, and plenty of family fun.

Even if wrestling isn’t usually your thing, the experience offers a lively slice of local culture and is one of the most memorable activities in the city. There are numerous tour options through Viator if you prefer to go with a guide. Here are a few well-rated choices:

• Lucha Libre, Tacos & Beer (4hrs)
• Lucha Libre & Mezcal Tasting (4hrs)

8. VISIT THE LOCAL MARKETS

To immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of a market day is a quintessential Mexico City experience. Whether you want to wander through the fragrant Jamaica Flower Market, sample the fresh fruit and veggies at Roma’s Mercado Medellín, or shop for traditional Mexican souvenirs at La Ciudadela in the Historical Center, a market visit is sure to enrich your Mexico City trip (and lighten your wallet).

If you are visiting Mexico City over a weekend, try to squeeze in a Saturday visit to Él Bazar Sabado. Located at Plaza San Jacinto in San Angel, this market has a wonderful selection of higher-end handmade souvenirs, textiles, ceramics, jewelry, artwork and more.

9. TAKE A FASCINATING DAY TRIP

While there are tons of interesting activities to keep visitors busy for weeks in Mexico City, there are also some really interesting day trips that shouldn’t be missed if you can squeeze them in.

Teotihucán DAY TRIP

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Teotihuacán is thought to have been constructed around 400 B.C., though exactly who built it remains debated. The site was rediscovered by the Aztecs in the 1400s, becoming a sacred site that they named Teotihuacán, meaning “the city of the gods”.

Teotihuacán is only 50 km (30 miles) from central Mexico City, but traffic can be a nightmare, turning this day trip into a very long day. Most Teotihuacán tours leave the city very early in the morning to avoid the worst of it. Here are some of the highest-rated options from Viator:

• Balloon Flight over Teotihuacán and Breakfast (8hrs)
• Teotihuacán Half Day Trip – Pyramids Only (4hrs)
• Teotihuacán Private Half Day Trip (5hrs)

If you’re looking for a more in-depth experience, I’m a big fan of Context Travel’s tours. I turn to them when I want a deeper dive into a subject and don’t mind spending a bit more for it. They offer small-group, thoughtfully curated tours led by true experts—historians, archaeologists, and scholars—who provide cultural and historical insight well beyond a typical guided experience.

• Full Day Teotihuacán Discover Tour (Context Travel)

Xochimilco DAY TRIP

Also making for a very interesting day trip is spending a lively afternoon floating through the Xochimilco canals on a trajinera (gondola). These waterways were part of an important transportation network going back to the time of the Aztecs.

For the liveliest experience, visit Xochimilco on weekends alongside locals. Weekdays offer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

Visitors can reach Xochimilco easily by private car, taxi or Uber from central Mexico City. Provisions can be purchased at the dock before boarding but you can also expect to be approached along the way by numerous floating businesses selling everything from roasted corn, to jewelry, to mariachi services.

SEE ALSO: Tours to Xochimilco with Viator.com. (These tours often conveniently combine a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum and the colonial Coyoacán neighbourhood.)

Colonial City DAY TRIPS

The beautiful colonial cities of Puebla and San Miguel de Allende can be explored as day trips from Mexico City, although if you have more time, spending a night our two might be much more enjoyable.

10. ADMIRE THE CITY’S ARCHITECTURE

If you’re a fan of interesting architecture, Mexico City is a brilliant place to explore. The range is huge—from pre-Hispanic ruins to colonial landmarks to some of the most eye-catching contemporary buildings in Latin America. You can see this contrast immediately in the Historic Centre, where the Templo Mayor ruins sit right beside the Metropolitan Cathedral and the surrounding Spanish colonial buildings constructed with green cantera stone.

Across the city, there are plenty of standout structures worth seeking out. The Palacio de Bellas Artes is one of the most photographed buildings in Mexico, with its white marble exterior and mix of Art Nouveau and Art Deco design.

In Polanco, the Soumaya Museum (the shiny, hexagonal, Gehry-esque building) and the minimalist Jumex Museum right next door show how contemporary architecture is shaping the city.

In Condesa and Roma Norte, you’ll see curved Art Deco apartments, restored early-20th-century mansions, and small architectural studios tucked into old residential blocks. Even the UNAM campus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has striking examples of Mexican modernism, including murals integrated directly into the buildings. Mexico City really does offer something interesting to look at on almost every block.

If you prefer to explore city sites on your own, the app GPSmyCity (Freemium model) has some excellent Mexico City neighbourhood walking tour options. If you prefer a more formal architectural tour, take a peek at the Roma and Condesa Architecture Tour by Context Travel.

SEE ALSO: Why Mexico City is a Modern Mecca for Architects (Architizer Journal)

MEXICO CITY MAP OF ATTRACTIONS

To make things a little easier, I’ve plotted all of the places mentioned above on the map below. For the interactive version, you can click the Mexico City map link or the map image itself.

WHERE TO STAY IN MEXICO CITY

If you’re deciding where to stay in Mexico City, the neighbourhoods I most often recommend are Polanco, Roma Norte, and Condesa. They’re walkable, safe-feeling, and close to many of the city’s top attractions, including Chapultepec Park, Chapultepec Castle, the Museo Nacional de Antropología, and many of the city’s best restaurants and galleries. They also make it easy to get around, whether you prefer to walk or take an Uber.

Mexico City has an impressive selection of small, design-focused hotels, and choosing the right one can make a big difference to your trip. I’ve rounded up my favourites—across different budgets and styles—in a dedicated guide. You can find it here: Best Boutique Hotels in Mexico City.

I’ve also created the following map, which highlights the three neighbourhoods mentioned above, along with Chapultepec Castle in the middle of them, all marked with green pins. If you stay in any of these areas, you really can’t go wrong.

GETTING THERE AND AROUND

Getting to Mexico City is straightforward, with direct flights from over 30 U.S. cities and four in Canada.

Once you arrive, getting around is equally easy. Uber is widely used, inexpensive, and the option I personally favour because you can track your route, see driver reviews, and share trip details.

The city’s official pink-and-white taxis are another reliable choice, but it’s best to take them from designated taxi stands or have your hotel arrange one for you.

Mexico City is also surprisingly walkable in neighbourhoods like Condesa, Roma Norte, and Polanco, and the metro system is extensive and affordable for travellers comfortable using public transit.

TRANSPORTATION FROM MEX AIRPORT

When arriving at MEX, I usually take Uber. As of December 2025, Uber pickups are typically allowed at Puerta 7 (Terminal 1) and Puerta 4 (Terminal 2). Policies do change occasionally, so it’s worth double-checking before you fly.

The airport’s official taxis are a solid alternative and operate on a prepaid system. After baggage claim, you’ll find authorized taxi booths where you give your destination, choose a vehicle type, and pay a fixed fare based on the zone. You’ll receive a ticket to hand to the attendant outside, who will match you with your car. (Have your hotel address ready, and request a sedan so you don’t get upsold to a larger vehicle.)

If you’re staying at a hotel, they may also offer to arrange a private airport pickup. It’s a pricier option but can be nice if you’re arriving late. On my most recent trip, I tried a private transfer service called DayTrip, which was slightly cheaper than my hotel’s rate and worked very well — polite driver, safe driving, and a very decent car.

CASH OR CARDS IN MEXICO CITY?

While most places in Mexico City accept credit cards, it’s still a good idea to carry some cash for taco stands, markets, tips, and the pink city taxis. You’ll also need coins for public bathrooms. I typically bring about $100 worth of pesos, and if I have any left over, I use them up at the airport before heading home.

If you do need to use an ATM in Mexico City, choose one located inside a bank and use it during the daytime. Avoid airport ATMs and exchange counters, which are convenient but often come with poor exchange rates.

SAFETY IN MEXICO CITY

Mexico City is generally safe for visitors, but as in any large capital, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Petty theft—mainly pickpocketing, purse-snatching, and phone theft—is the most common issue.

In neighbourhoods like Condesa, Roma Norte, and Polanco, I’ve always felt comfortable walking, but I still take basic precautions: keeping valuables in the hotel safe (passports included), being mindful when pulling my iPhone out, and avoiding flashing cash. If you need an ATM, use one inside a bank during the daytime in a busy area.

For travelling longer distances, between neighbourhoods, or at night, I prefer Uber for the added safety of route tracking and driver reviews. Once again, if you prefer taxis, stick to the official pink-and-white ones, and use only designated stands or have your hotel arrange them.

The city also sees frequent protests, especially around the Historic Centre, the Zócalo, and major government buildings. These are usually peaceful but can cause large crowds, blocked streets, and a heavier police presence. It’s worth checking conditions before heading into the Centro on any given day.

ALTITUDE AND WATER SAFETY

Mexico City sits at roughly 2,200 metres (7,300 feet), and some travellers feel the effects on the first day—anything from mild headaches to feeling winded on hills. Staying hydrated and pacing yourself helps.

Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Stick to bottled or filtered water, which most hotels and vacation rentals will provide, and avoid ice unless you trust the establishment.

GENERAL ADVICE

As with any international destination, it’s worth checking your government’s travel advisories before your trip. The U.S. Department of State, the Government of Canada sites provide clear, up-to-date guidance and specific alerts for travelers.

These advisory pages can look alarming at first because they address safety conditions for all of Mexico. If you drill down into the sections specifically about Mexico City, the guidance is far less concerning. As of Dec. 2025, Mexico City is rated Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, which is very different from states like Guerrero, most of which is rated Level 4: Do Not Travel by the U.S. Department of State.

LEARN MORE

I hope this post on Mexico City answered all (if not, most) of your questions. If there is anything else you need help with, please feel free to reach out to me via direct message on Instagram, Facebook or by email.

Want to see more unique adventures? I would love for you to follow along with The Better Beyond on Instagram!

FURTHER READING

• The 19 Best Museums in Mexico City (Condé Nast Traveler)
• Michelin Restaurant Guide to Mexico City (Michelin Guide)
• The Best Restaurants and Bars in Mexico City (50 Best Discovery)
• The Best Markets in Mexico City (CNTraveler)

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