Published on December 14, 2023 · Written by Zack Fenech
Top Travel Resources for Mexico City
| # | Service | Best for | Why we recommend it | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | QEEQ | Car rental | Compares major car rental desks and offers price-drop protection on bookings. | Visit site |
| 2 | EKTA | Travel insurance | Travel insurance with online claims, including adventure sport options. | Visit site |
| 3 | Drimsim | eSIM & data | Pay-as-you-go travel eSIM: you pay only for the data you use. | Visit site |
| 4 | AirHelp | Flight compensation | Claims compensation for delayed or cancelled flights on your behalf, for a success fee. | Visit site |
| 5 | Radical Storage | Luggage storage | Flat-rate luggage storage near stations and attractions. | Visit site |
| 6 | WeGoTrip | Self-guided tours | Self-guided audio tours for cities and museums, at your own pace. | Visit site |
| 7 | GetRentacar.com | Car rental | Marketplace of local rental suppliers with no-deposit options in some locations. | Visit site |
Mexico City, or Ciudad de México (CDMX), is the greatest city I’ve ever visited.
I spent two weeks visiting iconic Mexican cities like Oaxaca and Puebla, and I still wish I could have spent much more time enjoying the little moments – wandering tree-lined streets, indulging in food carts, and dancing at fiestas – while soaking up the vibrant culture Mexico is renowned for.
Why did I love Mexico City so much? Visitors get a bit of everything: a slice of the pre-Hispanic period mixed with the modern North American metropolis, endless options for street food, Mexican art and music, and unique culture, all set against the organized chaos of the most populated and largest city in North America.
This Mexico City travel guide will cover all the essentials new travellers need to know, including how to get around, what to do, and the food and drink you must try in beautiful CDMX.
Essential Things to Know: Mexico City Travel Guide
Immigration Forms and Visa
If you’re flying internationally into Mexico City, new visitors must fill out a Multiple Immigration Form. Fill it out at home, on the airplane, or at customs upon landing.
Safety
Mexico City is generally safe for tourists, but you should still be incredibly vigilant as crime remains an issue across the country. If you stay in tourist-centric areas, it is unlikely you will experience problems, but avoid standing out and exercise caution while travelling at night. There is a branch of the Mexico City Police dedicated to helping tourists. Be sure to get travel insurance before your trip.
Transportation
Mexico City has some of the most congested traffic in the world, but also one of the world’s best public transportation systems. Note: subway carriages are sex-segregated – there are separate carriages for women and children.
Altitude and Weather
Mexico City is approximately 2,240 metres above sea level. It may take a day or two to acclimatize. Pack accordingly for varying weather.
Money and Tipping
Mexico’s currency is the Mexican Peso. Tipping culture is significant – tip waiters a minimum of 10%, as well as cab drivers and service workers. Many independent vendors are cash only.
Bathrooms
Public bathrooms in Mexico City charge a small fee to access toilet paper, usually around 5 to 10 pesos. Do not flush toilet paper – dispose of it in the garbage receptacle provided.
Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Mexico City
Roma (Norte y Sur)
The most sought-after neighbourhood in CDMX for travellers and residents alike – romantic, hip, charming, and unbeatable in terms of location. Roma Norte is a few blocks from most major city attractions.
Coyoacán
Known as the “place of the coyotes,” Coyoacán is a beautiful upscale neighbourhood home to the Casa Azul and the main campus of the National Autonomous University.
La Condesa
A trendy area neighbouring Roma Norte with a similar vibe, trendy shops, and restaurants aplenty. A great base for exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Zona Rosa
Mexico City’s LGBTQ+ neighbourhood known for high-end shopping and nightclubs. Great for entertainment both day and night.
Centro Histórico
Within walking distance of many of Mexico City’s most famous attractions. Ideal for those who prefer major hotel chains.
Transportation in Mexico City
Through a sprawling public transportation system, Uber, and very walkable streets, Mexico City gets some 20 million residents from Point A to Point B every day. Fares for public transit are around 5 pesos, cash only. Avoid taking the subway late at night – taxis or Uber are safer after dark.
Getting into the City from the Airport
Approximately 30 minutes by car and one hour by bus from the city centre. The most effective way is by Uber, Didi, or Cabify. Alternatively, take the Line 4 Metrobus from Terminal 1 or 2, running every 15 minutes from 4:30 AM to 12:00 AM.
Subway
Mexico City’s subway rivals New York‘s in scope. Opened in 1969 and designed with illiteracy in mind – using icons and symbols rather than only text. Several stations feature museums and street art. Separate women-only carriages exist on every line.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Mexico City’s official taxis are pink and white and should not be hailed on the street – impostors operate in the city. Use ride-sharing apps (Uber, Didi, Cabify) or arrange rides through your hotel or Airbnb host.
Things to See and Do in Mexico City
Zócalo
Mexico City’s central square and the largest in the entire country, home to the Cathedral, the Government Building, and many other landmarks. The setting for many significant moments of the Mexican Revolution.
National Palace (Plaza de la Constitución)
Once the home of Hernán Cortés and now the official residence of the President of Mexico. A massive government building located within the Zócalo.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
The iconic art museum focusing primarily on the murals of Diego Rivera. Across the street, a Sears department store allows visitors to get a free panoramic view of the gallery from the seventh floor.
Palacio Postal
A century-old post office that is simply breathtaking on the inside. Admission is free, tourists are welcome, and you can send a postcard for just a few pesos.
Chapultepec Park
A vast set of lush parks that deserves an entire day. Boat rides, the Museum of Archaeology, the Chapultepec Zoo – think of it as Mexico’s answer to Central Park, with a Latin American twist.
Castillo de Chapultepec
An exhausting but rewarding climb up the hill in Chapultepec Park leads to this former presidential palace and royal residence. The history, scenic views, and lush gardens make it well worth the effort.
Plaza Garibaldi (Mariachi Square)
At dusk, head over and hire a Mariachi band to play for you and your group. Some travellers note it can feel precarious at night, so take an Uber if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
León Trotsky’s House
Trotsky’s former home in Mexico City where he hid from the Russian government and was eventually assassinated. A must-see for history buffs – though most exhibits are in Spanish.
Lucha Libre (Mexican Wrestling)
Head to the Arena México for Lucha Libre – professional wrestling with theatrics and Mexican melodrama. Tickets are cheap, shows are often Friday and Saturday nights, and they can sell out fast. Book online in advance.
Xochimilco Boat Rides
Hundreds of handcrafted and hand-painted wooden boats drift along canals – some carry travellers, others hold vendors, and some carry mariachi bands. Book a group tour for more affordable pricing, as Xochimilco is remote and difficult to reach independently.
Teotihuacán (Day Trip)
About an hour and a half outside of Mexico City lies a remarkable complex of ancient pyramids that is a marvel to witness in person. Book tickets for a shuttle, with some departing as early as 7 AM.
Food and Drink to Try in Mexico City
Tacos
The staple cuisine of Mexico. Corn tortillas with meat and various fillings. The best varieties in CDMX include Al Pastor (pork on a vertical spit with pineapple), Carnitas (slow-cooked pork), Birria (tender beef or goat with a dippable consomé), and Barbacoa (beef cheeks or lamb). Taco stands are available on almost every corner.
Chilaquiles
Fried or baked tortilla chips in a tangy tomato or tomatillo sauce, topped with cheese, crema, cilantro, and onions. Often topped with a fried egg or chicken. A perfect hangover cure.
Mole
Various types ranging from sweet to savoury, named for their distinct colours and flavour profiles. Similar in concept to a curry – deeply complex and unlike anything else.
Elote
Boiled or grilled street corn covered in mayonnaise, chilli peppers, and cotija cheese. Perhaps one of the most incredible street food options in Mexico City.
Churros
Unlike their saltier Spanish counterparts, churros in Mexico City are sweet and served in various sugary flavours, with hot chocolate for dipping.
Pulque
An alcoholic drink produced from fermented agave sap – slightly thick with a smoothie-like consistency, tangy yet sweet. Try it at Pulquería los Insurgentes.
Mezcal
Made from fermented agave plants, mezcal has a smoky taste profile often likened to tequila. Widely available throughout CDMX despite its Oaxacan origins.
My Final Thoughts: Visit Mexico City
This Mexico City travel guide only scratches the surface of what this beautiful and vibrant city has to offer. Mexico City is my favourite city in the world, and it was a pleasure writing about it.
FAQs About Mexico City
Is Mexico City safe?
Among Mexico’s cities, Mexico City is safe for tourists. Avoid going to remote areas at night and take cabs or Ubers wherever you need to go. Personally, I experienced no problems while I was there.
What is the best time of year to visit Mexico City?
The best time to visit in terms of climate is between March and April or October to November. Also consider visiting around Día de los Muertos at the end of October for a truly unique cultural experience.
How many days in Mexico City is enough?
At least five to seven days is recommended to do the city justice, though you could easily spend two weeks and still find new things to discover.
