Eager to discover Mexico City and don’t know where to start? Here are a hundred ideas for you to explore and fall in love with the different corners of CDMX.
Tour the Historic Center
Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, it preserves architectural jewels, such as the Palace of Fine Arts and the Post Office Palace. Here you will find museums, shops (to buy everything), restaurants, canteens, and magnificent colonial buildings. Walk through the Madero pedestrian walkway, one of the busiest streets in Mexico City, full of people, street artists, and interesting corners.
Admire the Metropolitan Cathedral
It is the largest cathedral in America. Construction began in 1573 and finished in 1813, so it has various architectural styles. Its altarpiece and the dome, made by Manuel Tolsá, stand out. On one side is the Metropolitan Tabernacle which, for some experts, contains the best churrigueresque façade in Latin America.
Look at the murals in the National Palace
This building preserves beautiful murals by Diego Rivera that tell the history of Mexico. Here, you can observe the balcony where, every year, the president gives the “Grito” reenacting the speech by priest Miguel Hidalgo calling Mexicans to take up arms, the battle that brought Mexico’s independence.
Eat on the terrace of the Gran Hotel in Mexico City
Located in one of the most beautiful buildings in the Historic Center (where the Art Nouveau decoration, the open ironwork elevator, and the stained glass ceilings stand out), this restaurant offers one of the best views of the city. Watching the sunset there is priceless. I recommend asking for the tasting menu.
Visit Templo Mayor and the museum
In this space, you will discover thousands of pre-Hispanic pieces found during more than 36 years of excavation in the ruins of what was the largest and most important building in Mexico-Tenochtilan, and its sacred enclosure. Among the monuments, the monolith of Coyolxauhqui and the Tlaltecuhtli works shouldn’t be missed.
Look for the archaeological windows in the Center (there are more than 170)
They will allow you to “lookout” to the times of ancient and Colonial Mexico through the protection and signage (with tempered glass and railings) of old buildings that remind us of other faces that the capital had at different times in history. We recommend you discover the ones in the atrium of the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace on Moneda Street, and the Spain Cultural Center (in the Republic of Guatemala or Donceles).
Find literary gems in the “old” bookstores in Donceles
If you like old books, you cannot miss these shops in the Historic Center, which have been a tradition since colonial times (although, initially, they had another location). It is the favorite place for collectors and curious people looking for rare second-hand titles on any subject.
Walk along the Paseo de la Reforma and visit the Angel of Independence
Paseo de la Reforma is the most elegant avenue in the city: there are shops, museums, parks, and some of the most emblematic monuments of the country, such as “el Ángel”. The 52-meter column was inaugurated in 1910.
Visit the National Museum of Anthropology
Built by the architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, evoking features of pre-Hispanic architecture, this site is considered by specialists as the most important in Latin America and one of the twenty most influential in the world. Among the treasures is the monolith of Tláloc, which welcomes visitors from the Paseo de la Reforma, the Tomb of King Pacal, and the impressive Piedra del Sol, the most important archaeological monument in Mexico discovered on December 17, 1790.
Visit Bosque de Chapultepec
This beautiful park has spaces for running, biking, and walking. In the First Section, you will discover the Baths of Moctezuma, “El Sargento”, the Nezahualcóyotl fountain, monuments to the Niños Héroes, and an archaeological zone. In addition, there is the zoo with more than 1,400 species and the Castillo de Chapultepec National History Museum that houses collections of art and objects from the time of Independence to the 20th century (in the only Royal Castle in the Americas).
Eat in the Polanco
Polanco is one of the most cosmopolitan neighborhoods in the capital. Here there are boutiques, restaurants, bars, parks, and cafes. One of the places with the greatest tradition is the one known as the “Polanco area”, between Lincoln Park and Presidente Masarik Avenue. Here, there are restaurants of all kinds of food with pleasant terraces. I recommend Dulce Patria, considered one of the best in Mexican haute cuisine.
Take a walk through Parque México in La Condesa
In addition to running into numerous dogs walking around and people exercising, Parque Mexico is the best place to people watch. In the surroundings, there are several cafes to rest.
Watch a horse race at the Hippodrome
At the Hipódromo de las Américas (entrance by Avenida Conscripto or Ingenieros Militares, next to Periférico) you will see quarter-mile races and thoroughbreds. It is a very entertaining place because while watching these horses run fast, you can place bets, eat and have a few drinks. (Before you go, check out the racing seasons.)
Walk Zona Rosa (the Gayborhood)
This magic area (behind Paseo de la Reforma) is known for its commercial life and gay scene. Here also highlights the Handicrafts and Silverware Market, founded in 1955, which offers pieces from all over the country. You can buy sarapes, charro hats, hammocks, obsidian sculptures, talavera tableware, typical clothing, leather goods, among other curiosities. The market is open from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm from Monday to Saturday, and from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Sundays. Gay and gay-friendly restaurants, cafes, bars, clubs, and karaoke can be found on every block. Shop some of the sexy underwear stores and adult toy stores.
Café El Jarocho in Coyoacán
It is a tradition in this area in the south of Mexico City since 1953. There are several branches (such as the one on Avenida México). Accompany your drink with a churro filled with chocolate, jam, cajeta or Lechera that you can buy at the stalls near the main square. A good option while visiting Casa Azul.
Casa Azul
If you like the works of Frida Kahlo, you cannot miss this interesting museum, housed in what was the house of the painter and, for a few years, also of Diego Rivera. In addition to some of her paintings, you can see love letters, pre-Hispanic pieces, and personal objects such as his dresses, the corset, and the mirror that she used to paint after the accident the left her confined to her bed.
See Lucha Libre
In the Arena México, you will be able to see funny fights between masked people. It is ideal to go with your friends or family; the atmosphere is friendly with loud cheers supporting your favorite wrestler. It’s a Mexico experience that everyone should take in.
Go retro with a Drive-In movie
Relive the 50’s by going to the movies in your car. In this space, located in Santa Fe, Cuajimalpa, weekly shows of classic movies are offered. It is an excellent option to go on a date with your partner. The drive-in has food and beverage service to your car!
Eat tacos al pastor
The best representative of Mexico City cuisine. These marinated pork tacos are simply delicious; They are accompanied by pineapple, coriander, onion, and green or red sauce. You will find them in any taquería anywhere. I recommend those of El Tizoncito, El Califa, Villamelón and El Borrego Viudo.
Have fun at Six Flags
Inspired by Looney Tunes characters and superheroes like Batman and Superman, it offers attractions for all ages. Adrenaline fans should jump on the Superman, Medusa, Batman the Ride, and Kilauea. In addition, in this place located south of CDMX, there are skill games, shows, restaurants, souvenir shops, and snack stalls.
Sing with mariachis in Plaza Garibaldi
Do you love mariachi music? Then you can’t stop going to this area, close to the Historic Center. In the square there are constantly groups that will make you sing “las rancheras”, and in the surroundings, there are good bars to continue the party.
Visit the Luis Barragán House-Study
This architectural space from the second half of the 20th century, located in Tacubaya, is considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Its exterior is very simple; however, the interior finishes are extraordinary: take a good look at the stairs, the lobby, and the terrace. I recommend that you check the schedules, as it is not always open.
Go to the markets of San Ángel
This area, to the south of the CDMX, has different places to buy handicrafts from recognized artists in Mexico and eat deliciously. One is the Bazar Sábado, which has been in the Plaza de San Jacinto since 1960; here you can buy typical quality products. Recently, the Mercado del Carmen was inaugurated inside a large house, where there are stalls that sell foods such as detox juices, vegan cookies, chocolates, and artisan ice cream.
Dsicover the mummies in the Museo del Carmen
In the Museo del Carmen, in San Ángel, the life of the Carmelite monks who inhabited the Convent is shown. In addition to religious art, furniture, and documents, the 12 mummified corpses of unidentified characters displayed in velvet-lined wooden boxes are worth admiring, and are over 300 years old!
Get to know the Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo House-Study.
Another place of interest in San Ángel is this museum that was the first functionalist house in Latin America, created by the architect Juan O’Gorman. In this unique enclosure, you will be able to see the painters’ workshops and rooms, as well as the popular art collection where the huge “Judas” stand out. After your visit, I recommend you eat at the San Ángel Inn restaurant.
Go to a play
In the capital, there are hundreds of theaters, public and private, for all ages. Musicals, adaptations, classical theater, children’s plays…. The offer is endless! Check the billboard to choose the one you like the most. One of the venues that you should know is the Insurgentes Theater, since its facade decorated with mosaics by Diego Rivera is worth the visit by itself.
Attend the sound and light show at the Polyforum Siqueiros
This enclosure, located behind the World Trade Center, is the largest mural in the world, since its entire structure is decorated by the work of David Alfaro Siqueiros. The show consists of listening to the artist’s own voice give the description of the mural “The March of Humanity”, while the Universal Forum platform rotates. There are performances on Saturdays and Sundays.
Get on a trajinera in Xochimilco
Considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Xochimilco is a unique place in the world: here you can ride a boat through canals as the Mexica would do. It is perfect to go with friends (bring your drinks, snacks, and music). Do not forget to visit the Island of the Dolls (it’s scary!) And buy flowers and plants.
Visit the Dolores Olmedo Museum
In this beautiful area of Xochimilco (which was the residence of the art collector and promoter) you can admire works by Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and Angelina Beloff. The building that preserves personal objects, paintings, photographs, and Olmedo furniture is also extremely interesting. In its extensive gardens, there are peacocks and Xoloitzcuintles.
Stroll through Colonia Roma and admire its French architecture
This beautiful neighborhood stands out for the elegance of its buildings, its restaurants, its squares, and bars. Here you can see from a replica of the Cibeles Fountain to one of Michelangelo’s David, in the Plaza de Rio de Janeiro. In this area, there is a very good nightlife and gastronomic options for all tastes, including the original Mercado Roma.
Shop the Coyoacán market
If you are one of those who love to “chat”, this is a must for you. In the market, which already has its own indoor space, you can find everything from accessories to decorative items. Once your purchase is finished, delight yourself with the snacks that are sold next to the plaza (hotcakes, esquites, elotes, churros, Mexican sweets), or if you are looking for an elegant place to dine, I recommend Los Danzantes, where the protagonist is mezcal.
Take walks through the Parque de los Dinamos
It might seem incredible that in the heart of Mexico City there is a huge natural space (more than 2,429 hectares), accompanied by a living river. This park, located in Santa María Magdalena Atlític, has trails for walking, walking with your pet or horseback riding, picnic areas, and vendors with snacks such as quesadillas and trout.
Get to know the Desierto de los Leones National Park
In Cuajimalpa you will find this surprising natural area (1,866 hectares) that also houses a splendid 17th-century convent. You can visit the complex, run, walk and eat snacks.
Scale on artificial climbing walls
Climbing sport lover? You no longer have to leave the city to do this vertical activity. There are walls in places like the Nueva Santa María neighborhood, Santa María Ticomán, Atizapán and Tlalpan.
Visit the Soumaya Museum
The Soumaya Plaza Carso Museum, behind Polanco, has more than 6,200 works from different times and countries. This enclosure has a surprising and modern exterior, designed by the architect Fernando Romero. The collection includes the collection of sculptures by Auguste Rodin, the largest in the world after that of France.
Visit an exhibition at the Tamayo Museum
This recently remodeled museum is located in the Bosque de Chapultepec, very close to the National Museum of Anthropology. It is dedicated to exhibiting works of international contemporary art and highlighting the collection of its founder.
Run through the Tlalpan Forest
It is one of the most popular places for runners and athletes who live south of the great capital. To the northeast it borders the Ajusco, offering a unique natural experience, and has numerous cross-country or pavement circuits. There are also restaurants, children’s areas, kiosks, nurseries, and a small zoo.
Get to know the archaeological zone of Cuicuilco.
In this space, you will be able to explore the remains of an old pre-Hispanic temple (circular in shape) built more than 2,000 years ago by a culture that left the region after the untimely eruption of the Xitle volcano that filled the residential area known today as El Pedregal with rocks.
Visit University City (CU)
Declared (a part) a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this Campus of the UNAM to the south of the city forms a unique space. The beautiful Rectory and Library building, the Planetarium, the Nezahualcóyotl Room, and, clearly, the University Olympic Stadium, home of the Pumas and decorated by Diego Rivera, stand out.
Visit an exhibition at the MUAC
The University Museum of Contemporary Art is located in the University Cultural Center, within CU. The facilities are very modern (be sure to visit the library) and there are interesting exhibits.
Rest in a spa
The options are numerous: the Marquis Spa at the Marquis Reforma, the Alameda Spa at the Hilton on Avenida Juárez, the Away Spa at the W Hotel in Polanco, the Heavenly Spa at the Westin in Santa Fe, and the Remede Spa at the St. Regis Hotel. All with excellent treatments for the face and body.
Go up to the viewpoint of the Latin American Tower
For many years, this building built in 1956 was the tallest in the capital (188 meters, including the spire). Today it is an icon of modern Mexican architecture and has six floors open to the public to have the best views of the “City of Palaces” (the best, clearly, is the one from the terrace on the 44th floor).
Get to know the collection of the Museo del Estanquillo
In 2006 Carlos Monsiváis founded this museum, located on Calle de Madero in the Historic Center, with the intention of sharing with the public his collection of more than 20,000 pieces that include photographs, documents, miniatures, and models. Do not miss the terrace, which in addition to offering a splendid panorama is the scene of forums, workshops, and shows.
National Museum of the Revolution.
Inside the Monument to the Revolution, in the Tabacalera neighborhood, is this recently remodeled museum that offers a broad view of the armed movement that began in 1910. The viewpoint and the beauty of the enclosure -which, ironically, was ordered built by Porfirio Díaz- are worth alone the fee; however, the collection that includes photographs and clothing is also very interesting.
Visit the permanent exhibition of the MUNAL.
The National Museum of Art is in a privileged area of Calle de Tacuba, just in front of the Palacio de Minería and guarded by the beautiful equestrian sculpture “El Caballito” by Manuel Tolsá. The museum is housed in what was the former Palace of Communications and Public Works and has a permanent collection of Mexican art between the 16th century and 1954.
Go to La Villa
Regardless of your religious beliefs, you have to visit the second-largest Marian pilgrimage sanctuary in the world. In the modern Basilica of Guadalupe, the work of the architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez is the venerated image of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Visit the Capilla del Cerrito where, according to tradition, “the miracle of the roses” occurred and the Capilla del Pocito, and don’t forget to eat the famous gorditas de nata.
Stroll down the Alameda
It is the most famous park in the capital, located on Avenida Juárez and Hidalgo. It was recently remodeled and today it has jumping fountains and nice benches. It is a good place to walk with your partner; take a photo in the Hemiciclo a Juárez and with the equestrian statue of Francisco I. Madero.
Have a coffee in the Regina Cultural Corridor, in the Historic Center
A few years ago this corridor was rehabilitated and today it is perfect to spend an afternoon with friends. In this street, there are shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants. Take advantage of the visit to see the Cloister of Sor Juana, where the remains of the poet lie.
Get to know the Rotunda of Illustrious Persons
Inside the Civil Pantheon of Dolores is this space with incredible tombs and mausoleums of renowned Mexican men and women. Here lie the remains of Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Salvador Díaz Mirón, Gerardo Murillo, Amado Nervo, José Clemente Orozco, Agustín Lara, among other writers, painters, musicians and politicians.
Admire the Moorish kiosk of Santa María La Ribera
The symbol of Santa María La Ribera, one of the oldest colonies in the capital outside the center, is this beautiful Arab-inspired kiosk. It was ordered to be built for the Universal Fair of 1884 and before it was on Avenida Juárez. Admire in detail its arches and ceilings; and, on weekends, enjoy the clown shows, concerts, and more shows that take place there.
Buy fruits, spices, and vegetables at the La Merced Market
In this huge market, to the east of the Historic Center, you can buy quality food, especially fruits and vegetables, as well as spices such as epazote and chili peppers. Plus, there are household items, herbal “remedies,” and snacks like quesadillas and tostadas.
Visit the Old Toy Museum
In Colonia Doctores is this space where you can admire a collection of more than 40 thousand toys from different periods. It recently inaugurated Sala de la Lucha Libre Mexicana and the caricatures of Cantinflas stand out. Another tip: take a tour of the store that sells collectible figures and dolls. Will delight the nostalgic!
Go shopping at the Santa Fe Shopping Center
Mexico City has a vast offer of shopping centers; and this one, located in Cuajimalpa, is the largest in Latin America. There are shops for all tastes and ages. The new section has a wide range of quality restaurants and an ice rink, so you can spend a unique day.
Take the Azteca Stadium tour
The Azteca Stadium is one of the forums with the longest history in the world and one of the largest in the world. No matter which team you go to (or if you really hate America) the tour is worth it. You will be able to see the plaque area of the most important events, walk through its tunnel, get on the field to feel like a real footballer, and enter the locker room.
Get to know the Anahuacalli Museum
This museum space, located in Coyoacán, was designed by the muralist Diego Rivera with the advice of the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Its construction is unique: it is inspired by pre-Hispanic temples and the same volcanic stone used in construction. The museum preserves pieces of pre-Columbian art (originals and replicas), collected by the painter.
Dance at the Patrick Miller
The best plan for a Friday night. For more than two decades, this place has been the favorite of the capital’s to dance. Preps, hipsters, professional dancers, taxi drivers, singers gather here… everything! On Fridays, there is a dance competition (take a look to copy some steps). Another point is its decoration with neon walls and that only water and beer are sold.
See a movie at the Cineteca Nacional
On Avenida México Coyoacán is this space that is responsible for promoting and preserving the film culture of our country and the world. Films, especially artistic and documentary films, are shown in 10 rooms. Check the billboard for the functions.
Have an ice cream at Roxy
Set like a typical soda fountain from the 40s (since it was opened as such in 1946), this ice cream shop is a tradition in La Condesa (although it also has a branch in Polanco). In addition to being a “must” for the residents of the capital due to the history of the place, it is also a must for its products made with cream, milk, and sugar, like those of yesteryear.
Buy handicrafts at La Ciudadela
If you like Mexican folk art, this site is one of the best to acquire since the 1968 Olympics. It is in Plaza La Ciudadela, near the Historic Center, and exhibits pieces from all over the country, from textiles and hammocks to sculptures, furniture, and jewelry, which is why it is highly visited by national and foreign tourists.
See a show at the City Theater
The City Theater, Esperanza Iris, is housed in a beautiful building on Donceles street, in the Historic Center. This venue is famous for being the national and international forum par excellence for the performing arts of the country. Among the type of shows that you can witness are dance, theater, opera, zarzuela, cinema, operetta, and large-format productions.
Eat prepared chicharrones, esquites, a guajolota and tacos de canasta
They are chilangas (people who live in CDMX) delicacies that you have to try. The pork rinds are prepared with spicy sauce, onion, cilantro, cream, and even cinnamon. Esquites are corn shelled with mayonnaise, epazote, cream, cheese, and chili. A guajolota is a tamale cake that can also be eaten fried. And the tacos de canasta are made of stew (they are so-called because they are sold in a basket). You can eat them in any square, park, and market.
Explore the Plaza de las Tres Culturas in Tlatelolco
The square gathers three historical stages: Tenochtitlan, Conquest, and Modern Mexico. Here you can see pyramids and pre-Hispanic ruins, a convent and the temple of Santiago, and the University Cultural Center. There is also the UNAM 68 Memorial and commemorative monuments.
Stroll through the galleries
Do you like the arts? In the capital, there are several galleries with the work of artists from all mediums. In Polanco there is a good offer, including Torre del Reloj, Galería de Arte XXI, Galería LTBART.
Take a tour with your friends through the canteens of the city
In the Historic Center, there are several canteens to have a few drinks and eat deliciously. The first is Bar la Ópera, known for preserving a bullet wound from Pancho Villa. The next is the Cantina la Pensular, where dominoes and dice are played. Another is the Restaurant Bar el Gallo de Oro, which was frequented by intellectuals from different eras. Other options are Cantina la Potosina, the Spanish Casino and the Alfonso Bar. There is a tour of the Turibús that visits canteens, which leaves on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
See an exhibition at the Museo Universitario del Chopo
In this area of Colonia Santa María La Ribera you will be able to see expressions of living arts, music shows, film performances, and other artistic performances. Due to its technical and aesthetic characteristics, it is one of the most emblematic buildings in the capital, while it is the headquarters of urban culture activities, such as Mexican rock concerts.
Take a Sunday bike ride through Reforma
From 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, every Sunday, the bike ride takes place. People on bicycles and skates, as well as runners, children, and pets, come together in this elegant avenue to cross it from the height of the National Auditorium to Bucarelli, with an exit to the Center and other routes. On the last Sunday of the month the route changes.
Watch the opera broadcasts at the National Auditorium
During certain times of the year, the live broadcasts of The Metropolitan Opera in New York are carried out, which can be followed by lovers of this art in the National Auditorium. Some of the operas that have been presented are “La bohème” and “Carmen”.
Stroll through the center of Tlalpan
In this area, you still feel calm as a province. Tour it on foot and get to know the Plaza de la Constitución with its kiosk, the 16th century San Agustín temple, the Chapel of the Sacramental Capuchins designed by the architect Luis Barragán, the Frissac House and the La Paz Market. I recommend you eat at La Sazón restaurant.
Enter the Museum of Memory and Tolerance
Located on Avenida Juárez, in front of the Alameda, it is one of the most original cultural spaces in the metropolis. In addition to its architecture and museography, it invites reflection on these issues. We assure you: getting on the wagon that was used to transfer Jews to concentration camps during World War II will change your life.
Tour the permanent exhibition of the Franz Mayer Museum
This museum, which is located on Avenida Hidalgo in front of the Alameda, is focused on decorative arts and design. Its collections include pieces of silverware, ceramics, furniture, and textiles; as well as popular art such as toys and masks, with the Ruth Lechuga Collection. Throughout the year they have exhibitions such as World Press Photo.
Go to a show at the Plaza de las Artes at CENART
The National Center of the Arts, located in Río Churubusco, is an open-air forum where family artistic activities are carried out, especially for children, although you can also visit it to appreciate only the beauty of the building in which it is located.
Visit the mezcalerías in Roma with your friends
Mezcal is in fashion, and this area has several establishments where this drink and delicious snacks are sold and there is a good atmosphere. I recommend La Nacional, La Botica or Pulquería Insurgentes. (Besides Colonia Roma, there are good mezcalerías in Condesa and Coyoacán).
Paddleboat in Chapultepec
It might sound cheesy to you, but trust me – you’ll love them! Go to the First Section of the forest and rent a paddleboat and have a good (and very romantic) time on the lake. Stop by the zoo or visit the totem pole while you are there.
Learn a Latin dance
From Monday to Saturday, around 100 people gather in the Plaza José María Morelos to take classes in danzón, salsa, cumbia, merengue, and other rhythms. It is an experience that you cannot miss, especially if you are a lover of the dance floors.
Dance salsa at the Mama Rumba
After several years, this site continues to be the benchmark for tropical dances in Mexico City. If you like to dance “pegadito”, the Mama Rumba in Colonia Roma has what you are looking for: good dancers, atmosphere, and drinks at a good price.
Eat some delicious chilaquiles at Chilakillers
It is the favorite place for many people from Chilangos to “cure” the hangover. The establishment is at the foot of the Ermita Building on Avenida Revolución and its specialty is (obviously) chilaquiles of different specialties.
Visit the University Stadium
Whether you like soccer or not, this is an experience that you must live. The Azteca Stadium is one of the most famous in the world, and here you can see matches of the National Team or Club América. If you prefer a smaller event, nothing like the University Olympic Stadium, in CU, which in addition to having a good atmosphere and being the home of the Pumas, is an architectural gem.
Have fun at the Wax Museum and the Ripley Museum
Housed in a beautiful mansion from 1904, the Wax Museum has a collection of 230 figures, distributed in 14 rooms that include characters from the history, art, and sports of Mexico. Surely you will laugh taking a photo with the Saint or with “Chespirito”. Off to one side is the Ripley Museum, with collections of bizarre and rare objects from cartoonist Robert L. Ripley.
Ride a horse or motorcycle in La Marquesa
The Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Insurgente National Park (yes, that’s its name) is located in Cuajimalpa. This place is perfect to live with nature and go horseback riding or motorcycle riding through a historic site. There are also zip lines and food vendors. If you are looking for a good restaurant in the area, I recommend La Escondida and Jajalpa, where there are also gardens.
Have breakfast at the Sanborns of the Casa de los Azulejos
It is one of the most beautiful buildings in the capital, covered by mosaics of Puebla talavera and decorated with murals by José Clemente Orozco inside. Its ornamentation is reminiscent of the city of Puebla (where this ceramic originates from). For breakfast, nothing better than Swiss enchiladas.
Skate on the Zócalo ice rink (during December)
Every year, the Plaza de la Constitución turns into a huge ice skating rink where residents of the capital can have fun for free. It’s a lot of fun but you have to get there early as the lines are usually huge.
Get to know the city at night
The CDMX night has another face when monuments are illuminated and bars open. To give you another idea of the capital, there are several routes: take the night bus (the traditional one, the Luchas one or the Cantinas one), the tram rides through the Chapultepec Forest, and the night bike rides.
Visit the temporary exhibitions of San Ildefonso
The Old College of San Ildefonso (behind the Templo Mayor) was one of the most important educational institutions in New Spain and today it is an ideal venue for exhibitions of international stature. The property is one of the most outstanding Baroque examples in the country and its interior is decorated with murals by Diego Rivera. Here there are exhibitions mainly of painting, sculpture, and science.
Go to a concert at the Pasagüero
This establishment is a changing forum that brings together street art, fashion, and music. In it, concerts of less than a thousand people of rock and independent electronic are performed. Recently, it was inaugurated under the Pasagüero + La Bipo concept, so it now offers a good menu of drinks and food. It is in the Historic Center, on Calle de Motolinía.
Get scared in the Callejón del Aguacate
In this street of the Santa Catarina neighborhood in Coyoacán, legends abound since the beginning of the 20th century: that of the murdered girl, that of the boy hanged in a tree by a military man, that of the abandoned house inhabited by a ghost, that of the massacre, that of the dead horseman and that of black magic during the time of Lázaro Cárdenas. Go and get the chills.
Learn about marine life at the Inbursa Aquarium
Mexico City is quite far from the sea, so this may be the best opportunity for some Chilangos to get to know the underwater world. This aquarium, located in front of the Soumaya Museum in Polanco, has the peculiarity that it is underground; inside are sharks, turtles, stingrays, and many more species.
Admire an installation or projection at the Ex-Teresa Arte Actual
This museum is housed in a magnificent 17th-century building, which was previously a convent, military barracks, and printing press. Here are unique performances (which will delight those who like experimental, alternative, and provocative art), contemporary music concerts, film screenings, exhibits, and multimedia shows.
See a cabaret show
Relive this “golden” era in France by attending a different show (be it dance, intellectual, stand-up, satire, or drag). I recommend the Foro a poco no, in the Center; The Bataclán in the Countess; El Vicio, in Coyoacán, where women make satires; and La Perla, in Garibaldi, with drag and exotic shows.
Have breakfast at Café de Tacuba
It is one of the most traditional restaurants in CDMX, located in the Historic Center. There is sacred art on the walls and it owes its fame also to the fact that the movie “Los Niños de Sánchez” was filmed there. Among its specialties are the Tacuba enchiladas and hot chocolate with sweet bread. Tip: Try to make a reservation because it is usually very full.
Dinner at the Bellini
Are you looking for a different and romantic place to take your partner? Choose this restaurant, the only revolving restaurant in Mexico. It is located in the World Trade Center building, near Avenida Insurgentes Sur.
Get to know the Museum of Caricature
In Donceles street, in a baroque building, is this museum that is a reflection of the social, economic, and political life of the country. The exhibition narrates the history of political cartoon in Mexico from 1824 to date. In addition to the exhibition, there are flea markets, workshops, and tributes to different characters.
Attend a concert
The Arena Ciudad de México, the National Auditorium, the Palacio de los Deportes, the Cuervo Room or the Metropolitan Theater. There is no shortage of places to see concerts and shows. In the National Auditorium, there are concerts of recognized Mexican and international artists, as well as plays and great premieres; the Palacio de los Deportes receives very famous artists, as well as sporting events; the Cuervo Room is for alternative or new bands; and the Metropolitan Theater for smaller shows and concerts.
Discover the Panteón San Fernando Museum
Before, in Mexico, it was customary to bury the dead inside temples and convents. One of the most famous is this site, in the Historic Center, as it preserves the remains of characters such as Benito Juárez and his wife Margarita Maza, Vicente Guerrero, Ignacio Zaragoza, Melchor Ocampo, and Francisco González Bocanegra. Each tomb has its history and the space is considered an important sample of funerary art.
Eat some churros from El Moro
Since 1935, this churrería located in Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas has been a tradition among the residents of the capital. The menu consists of churros (sooo good) and different types of hot chocolate drinks.
Get on the Turibús
It does not matter if you have lived in Mexico City all your life or if it is the first time you visit it, this tour is a “must” to get to know the city. It has different routes and the best are the explanations of the places it passes. I assure you that you will see places you have never been and you will know surprising facts. You can take it at the National Auditorium.
