Mexico City

What are the most recommended things to do in Mexico City?

  • Visit the historic Zócalo and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
  • Explore the National Palace and Diego Rivera murals.
  • Wander through the Frida Kahlo Museum and Coyoacán neighborhood.
  • Stroll along Paseo de la Reforma and Chapultepec Park, including the castle and museums.
  • Experience the floating gardens of Xochimilco by boat.
  • Shop and dine in neighborhoods like Condesa, Roma, and Polanco.
  • Visit the Anthropology Museum to see pre-Columbian artifacts.
  • Take a day trip to Teotihuacan pyramids nearby.

Introducing Mexico City

Mexico City (Ciudad de México, also known as Mexico DF, or DF for short) is the capital of the United Mexican States, located in a valley on the south-central Mexican plateau. With an area of ​​1,500 square kilometers and a population of over 22 million, it is one of the largest and most crowded cities in the world. At an altitude of 2,249 meters, the city experiences intense sunlight. While some Chinese tourists experience shortness of breath, fatigue, or even mild altitude sickness from strenuous exercise, most experience little to no effects of the altitude.

Climate and best time to travel

Mexico City has only two seasons: the dry season (November-April) and the rainy season (May-October). The average temperature year-round remains between 13.4°C and 18.6°C, which doesn't significantly affect accommodations. The peak tourist season is during the dry season.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City

This museum has a high status in the history of anthropology. It has the largest number of pre-Columbian art exhibits in the world, distributed in 24 themed rooms, displaying the Mexican Indian civilization, Aztec civilization and Mayan civilization. It is also the largest museum in Latin America. There are often various exhibitions, which is worth a day's visit.


Mexico City Cathedral

Considered a jewel of colonial architecture and the largest Catholic church in Latin America, the cathedral took three centuries to complete and incorporates elements of diverse architectural styles, including Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical. On Sundays, many parents bring their children for baptisms (Bautizo).


Historic Square

This area boasts some of Mexico City's finest colonial architecture. Its heart lies in the Zócalo, the central square known as the Constitution Square. Flanked by the Palacio Nacional, the National Palace, the Catedral Metropolitana is to the north, and the city government offices lie to the south. Strikes and demonstrations often gather in the square.


Most Popular FAQs for Mexico City

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Mexico City, built on the ruins of Tenochtitlán, is the capital of Mexico and one of the oldest cities in the Americas. It is a cultural, political, and economic hub with rich history from Aztec civilization through Spanish colonization to modern times.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Mexico City is in central Mexico. Access via Mexico City International Airport (Aeropuerto Benito Juárez). Local transport includes metro, buses, taxis, rideshares, and walking in central areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; museums may extend hours. Best time to visit is from November to April to avoid rainy season and enjoy mild weather.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Frida Kahlo Museum: ~$15 USD, tickets online recommended.
  • Chapultepec Castle: ~$4 USD, tickets can be bought onsite or online.
  • Teotihuacan: ~$5 USD, tickets bought at entrance.
  • Many public plazas and parks are free.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended for Frida Kahlo Museum and guided tours, especially 1–2 weeks ahead during peak season.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan 4–6 days to cover major attractions, museums, cultural sites, and a day trip to Teotihuacan.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace.
  • Chapultepec Park and Castle.
  • Frida Kahlo Museum and Coyoacán.
  • Xochimilco canals.
  • National Museum of Anthropology.
  • Historic neighborhoods: Roma, Condesa, Polanco.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours are available in English and Spanish; some museums offer audio guides in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Chapultepec Castle and hill for city views.
  • Torre Latinoamericana observation deck.
  • Colorful streets of Coyoacán.
  • Xochimilco canals for boat photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Zócalo, visit nearby historic sites, spend a day at Chapultepec Park and museums, explore Coyoacán and Frida Kahlo Museum, then a day trip to Teotihuacan. Evening strolls in Roma or Condesa are ideal.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, some museums offer night openings, light shows at Zócalo for special events, and evening food or walking tours in central neighborhoods.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Tourist areas can be crowded on weekends and holidays. Weekdays and early mornings are less busy, especially November–April outside peak holidays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Major museums, parks, and attractions have restrooms, cafes, water fountains, seating, and souvenir shops; public areas may have limited facilities.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most museums and modern attractions are accessible; some historic sites and uneven streets may be challenging for mobility-impaired visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards are widely accepted; small vendors, markets, and some taxis may require cash in Mexican pesos.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Local markets like Mercado Roma and Mercado de San Juan for authentic cuisine.
  • Fine dining in Polanco and Condesa.
  • Cafes in Coyoacán and Chapultepec areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in Roma, Condesa, and Polanco; halal options are limited but exist in some international restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Luxury: Four Seasons, St. Regis, and Presidente InterContinental in Polanco.
  • Mid-range: Hotel Histórico Central, NH Collection Centro Histórico.
  • Budget: Hostels in Roma and Condesa neighborhoods.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Teotihuacan pyramids (~1 hour away).
  • Floating gardens of Xochimilco.
  • Cultural sites in Coyoacán.
  • Nearby museums along Reforma Avenue.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, typical souvenirs include Mexican handicrafts, textiles, Talavera pottery, jewelry, and local sweets.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Metro, buses, or rideshares for city travel.
  • Rental cars or organized tours for day trips outside the city.
  • Domestic flights for travel to other Mexican cities or coastal regions.