The Ultimate Long Weekend Itinerary

There are too many things about Mexico City that have completely stolen my heart: the tree-lined residential streets of Roma Norte, the al pastor tacos, the world-class cocktail bars, the unparallelled dining scene (that’s way more affordable than it should be), mariachi music lighting up the public squares, historic landmarks steeped in thousands of years of history, traditional craft markets, indie boutiques with the most unique creations, the churros, mole, and esquites… I can go on and on!

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve visited—with big groups of friends, as a couple, and even for a bachelorette party—and every trip leaves me craving more.

Here’s the thing I’ve realized trip after trip: there’s way too much to do in CDMX for just four days. Seriously, I could spend weeks there and still not scratch the surface.

The only other city that feels this vast to me is Tokyo. I’ve been to Tokyo at least six times, and I still don’t feel like I’ve made a dent in exploring it—it’s just that massive. Both cities are endless: endless things to do, endless places to eat, endless neighborhoods to wander and get lost in.

With that said, I’ve created an itinerary to help you plan your 4 days in Mexico City.

This itinerary is based on what I did during my very first trip, perfect for first-timers who want to hit the highlights.

One thing’s for sure: Mexico City will keep you BUSY. Whether you’re mural hunting in Condesa, sipping mezcal at Handshake Speakeasy, or devouring bags and bags of churros at El Moro, there’s never a dull moment. And honestly? I don’t think I’ll ever get sick of this city.

Get ready for a whirlwind of tacos, shopping, traditional markets, history, art, and immersive experiences!

This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!

Looking for a bit shorter of an itinerary? We have a fun-filled 3-day itinerary of CDMX as well. Go check it out!

WHY VISIT MEXICO CITY?

Just a hop and a skip away from many major cities in the US (likely a 5-hour flight or less from wherever you are), Mexico City has quickly become a go-to weekend destination for weekend warriors, explorers, and culture seekers alike.

Honestly, there are so many reasons why Mexico City should be on your radar. You can expect really good food, oodles of historical sites, epic shopping opportunities, a popping nightlife scene, and endless cultural opportunities at every possible turn.

But most importantly, Mexico City is affordable as heck.

If you’re a foodie, CDMX will be an endless playground for you. From street food (tacos, tlayudas, elotes, and churros, YUMMM) to fine dining at half the price of what you’d pay in the U.S., Mexico City is a culinary paradise.

And if you’re looking to do some shopping, there are so many hip, independent boutiques where you can buy high-quality goods (clothes, accessories, home decor, furniture) for a third of what you’d pay in the United States.

History buffs and architecture lovers won’t be disappointed either. Must-see spots include the Diego Rivera murals, the Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe, the Palacio de Bellas Artes, the Museum of Anthropology, the striking Museo Soumaya, and the historic Palacio Nacional.

And if you need a break from the city’s hustle and bustle, nearby day trips like the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacán or the colorful canals of Xochimilco are just a short drive away.

Mexico City is perfect for budget-conscious, culture-loving travelers who thrive in energetic destinations. Yes, it’s a big city with big-city challenges (like crime and pollution), but neighborhoods like La Condesa, Roma, and Polanco are safe and welcoming. Just exercise the same caution you would in any major urban area, and you’ll be fine.

Whether you’re visiting for 4 days or 2 weeks, one thing’s for sure: you’ll never run out of things to do. 

HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND IN MEXICO CITY?

In all honesty, I would recommend a full week in Mexico in order to really dive into the heart and soul of the city! And even after a week, you’ll find plenty more to do and see.

But I get it, one week is unrealistic because not everyone can take that much time off from work and life responsibilities. For first-timers who are short on time, I would recommend no less than 4 to 5 days.

With 4 to 5 days, you’ll be able to see a good amount of the major landmarks and attractions in Mexico City. It will allow you to try a breadth of restaurants, street eats, and cuisines, and it will allow you to explore some of the trendy up-and-coming neighborhoods as well!

Honestly, you’ll feel way less rushed compared to only having 2 or 3 days. This means you can actually relax and have “free time” moments where you can just sit down with an ice-cold beer or stroll through one of the city’s magical parks without having to worry about popping over to the next big attraction.

Day 1: Centro Historico

To kick off your epic 4 days in Mexico City, we’re going to start you off at the heart of it all–Centro Historico! It’s something light and jam-packed, at the same damn time.

Mexico City’s historic city center is not only beautiful to look at thanks to all the European / American / Latin American influences, but it’s also packed to the brim with things to do. You’ll find street food, local markets, grand plazas, ornate architectural buildings, and more museums than you can count.

Check in to your hotel

Freshen up, unpack, and relax. Too early to check in? Just drop your bags off.

Don’t plan for any reserved or paid attractions on your first day upon arrival.

Something may inadvertently come up (delayed flight, crazy traffic getting from the airport to the city center, lost luggage, bad weather, etc.) so just spend your first day getting adjusted to the elevation and getting acquainted with historic city center.

Light breakfast at Mercado de San Juan

If it happens to be early when you arrive, start the morning off with some fuel for today’s adventures.

Mercado de San Juan is commonly referred to as the “chef’s market,” due to the high-quality produce, meat, seafood, and specialty/imported items sold here.

Mercado de San Juan (or ‘San Juan Market’ for my non-Spanish speakers) is actually two buildings, located a block apart.

One focuses on fruits, veggies, and meats (they have unique offerings like deer, alligator, iguana, wild pig, etc.), while the other is filled with stalls serving full meals, juices, and pastries.

You’ll want to grab some breakfast at the second building after you’re done browsing the first. Don’t forget to order some crispy ants, grasshoppers, and beetles for snacking!

These might sound unusual, but they’re a genuine local delicacy deeply rooted in Mexican culinary traditions, especially in regions like Oaxaca.

👉 Did you know? In Mexico, insects like grasshoppers (called chapulines) and ants (escamoles) have been part of the diet for centuries, dating back to pre-Hispanic times. They’re not just a gimmick to lure tourists (like in some other countries); they’re a cherished part of the culture, and they’re packed with protein and flavor too! Grasshoppers are often toasted with garlic, lime, and chili, while ants are prized for their nutty, buttery taste.

Even if you don’t grab food from here, it’s a really neat place to see where locals, neighbors, chefs, cooks, and tourists all come together to shop. The market is open daily, from 7 am to 5 pm.

Take a free walking tour

As with any major city, I always recommend people start their trip off with a free walking tour of the historic city center to get their bearings.

With a pay-what-you-wish walking tour, not only will you get a better understanding of the city’s layout, but you’ll also be able to learn some history and appreciate the local culture more.

Each tour company/local guide has his or her own unique route, but they’ll typically take you through the different areas of Centro Historic.

Many of these free walking tour companies also offer neighborhood-themed tours (like Coyoacan or La Roma), which I 100% recommend you make time for if they interest you!

Another benefit of walking tours that we love to take advantage of?  Being able to ask the local tour guide for food recommendations! Some of our best meals abroad were a result of tour guide recommendations.

Where to find free walking tours: Some tours are mural-focused, some are taco-themed, and others are neighborhood-specific. You can browse through tons of options on FREETOUR, where you’ll find a handful of tip-based tours run by locals.

Reservations are usually required to secure your spot so be sure to make one before showing up at the meeting spot.

Zócalo

Chances are, your walking tour covered the Zócalo, but to really soak in the local atmosphere, I recommend going back on your own so you can enjoy it at your own pace.

This is Mexico City’s main square. It also happens to be the largest community meeting place in all of Latin America.

The plaza also happens to be the center of ancient Tenochtitlan. When the Spanish took the city, they kept this plaza the political and religious center of the country – and, of course, of the city, too.

Depending on the day you visit, you may even catch a special event or festival occurring while you visit!

During my first visit to Mexico City, a huge multi-day festival called CDMX Festival of Indigenous Cultures was taking place in the Zócalo. It was a ton of fun learning about all the different indigenous cultures and we were so happy to have stumbled upon such a cool event.

Be sure to check the events calendar before arriving!

Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral

Within steps from the Zócalo is the Metropolitan Cathedral, which is breathtaking, to say the least.

Not only is this one of Mexico’s most beloved architectural masterpieces, but it is also Latin America’s largest and oldest cathedral.

Feast your eyes on all the intricate details and snap some photos of the historic architectural masterpiece before moving on to the next item on the list!

Templo Mayor

From the Metropolitan Cathedral, walk a few yards over to Templo Mayor, an impressive set of Aztec ruins that you don’t need to travel to the middle of nowhere for. That’s right, these ruins are right in the middle of the city!

Slow it down at this point. Take your time reading the interpretive signage explaining Aztec culture and religion. There are signs in English and Spanish.

Palacio Nacional

From Templo Mayor, you won’t have to get too far to reach the National Palace, or Palacio Nacional. This is the president of Mexico’s home and office rolled into one.

The palace is most famously known as being the home of a few murals by Diego Rivera, which you absolutely cannot miss. These murals make up one complete art piece named “The History of Mexico.”

Soak in all the little details of the mural because it’s crazy that such an iconic piece of work is on display to the public for free!

Fun Fact: For those of you who don’t know who Diego Rivera is, he is a Mexican painter whose bold large-scale murals stimulated a revival of fresco painting in Latin America. He is undoubtedly one of the leading artists of the 20th century. Plus, he was the husband of the also-famous artist Frida Kahlo (who is also a really big deal in Mexico).

Palacio de Bellas Artes

For more unbelievably grand murals, head to the Palacio de Bellas Artes. At this concert hall and arts center, you’ll be able to see murals by world-famous Mexican artists sprawled across the top floor of the white-marble palace.

The murals by the likes of David Alfaro Siqueiros, Diego Rivera, Rufino Tamayo, and Jose Clemente are located on the 2nd and 3rd floors.

Enjoy the historical beauty of Palacio Postal

From there, wander your way into a few of the nearby historic buildings, including Palacio Postal, one of the most beautiful and magnificent post offices I have ever laid eyes on!

Think grand staircases, intricate ironwork, and ceilings so ornate you’ll forget the fact that you’re just in a post office.

Built in the early 1900s, it’s a perfect example of the eclectic style that blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau elements. And yes, it’s still a functioning post office, so you can send a letter or postcard from one of the most beautiful spots in the city.

Eat some street tacos

Did you really go to Mexico City if you didn’t get street tacos at least once? NO!

Mexico City takes its tacos seriously. Namely, the al pastor taco. There are at least four iterations of tacos al pastor in the city, so we recommend sampling as many tacos as you can fit in your stomach!

In fact, this may be Mexico City’s most essential dish nowadays. There are a million unnamed spots that you should simply stumble upon and try, but here are a few more well-known names in Centro that will get you started:

Eat some churros

From there, get yourself ready for churro time at Churrería El Moro, which specializes in all things churro and sweet.

This was the first time I had tried churros and ice cream together, and let me tell you, they are a match made in heaven!

If you’d like something sweet to dip your churros in, get a cup of sauce (caramel, chocolate, condensed milk) or even a cup of hot chocolate to pair with it.

Depending on how much time you have left in the day, you could either head back to your hotel for a quick rest before heading to dinner, OR you could skip the rest and explore more!

Explore the Juarez neighborhood

The neighborhood of Juarez is located just to the left of Centro, making it a convenient colonial (neighborhood) to check out. 

Situated at the border of Centro Historico and reaching Bosque de Chapultepec Park, Juárez offers the perfect balance of relaxation and sights during the day and fun party spots with live music at night!

Juarez has been going through a renaissance and is quickly becoming a popular neighborhood in Mexico City due to an uptick in trendy restaurants and shops that have recently popped up.

Its origins date back to the early 20th century, which is why the area is home to plenty of beautiful mansions.

The section called Zona Rosa offers plenty of LGBTQ+ friendly bars and clubs. You’ll even find cool speakeasies to explore such as the world-famous Handshake Bar).

For shopping, check out the minimalist store Utilitario Mexicano as well as the adorable boutique called Loose Blues. Planta is another fun design house and shop dedicated to urban greenery, as is Filia, a futuristic shop with pieces by independent Mexican brands.

We recommend eating dinner and grabbing drinks in this neighborhood before heading back to your hotel for some much-needed rest.

Day 2: Chapultepec, Roma Norte, Condesa

Breakfast, coffee, and pastries

Get a quick bite to eat for breakfast by grabbing some local baked goods and pastries along with your morning cup of joe!

As soon as you step out into the city streets, you’ll find vendors on bikes peddling danishes and conchas (sweet bread rolls) as they pass by, and there’s a bakery on almost every street corner offering a wide variety of treats.

I love baked goods, so you already know I’ve done tons of research on this. Here’s a list of some amazing bakeries to check out at some point during your 4 days in Mexico City:

• Panaderia Gala – cozy neighborhood bakery known for its conchas (but other pastries are also amazing)
• Cuina – blends French techniques with Mexican flavors. Their croissants are a must-try, especially the ones filled with dulce de leche or guava.
• Vulevu Bakery – modern bakery with a French twist, famous for its pain au chocolat and almond croissants.
• Pastelería Ideal – classic Mexican bakery with a sprawling selection of pastries. Their orejas (palmiers) and tres leches cake are crowd favorites

Stroll through Chapultepec Park

Start your day off right at Chapultepec Park with views of nature and a bit of physical activity to burn off some of what you ate yesterday!

Clocking in at a size even New York’s Central Park, Chapultepec Park is a massive urban forest spanning almost 2.8 square miles. If you’re a morning jogger, this is the perfect place to do it!

The park is packed with iconic landmarks, including the Castillo de Chapultepec, Museo Tamayo, The Museum of Modern Art, and the National Museum of Anthropology—the most visited museum in Mexico City.

There’s even a full-on amusement park, La Feria Chapultepec Mágico, perfect for families with kids.

Honestly, I enjoyed Chapultepec so much more than places like Central Park. It’s just so relaxing and romantic! The walkways are lined with towering, draping trees that truly make you forget you’re in a massive metropolis. Along the way, you’ll find secluded benches tucked into quiet corners—perfect for taking a break, people-watching, or just watching the world float by.

As you make your way toward the National Museum of Anthropology, you’ll pass by a bunch of local vendors selling everything from snacks to souvenirs, especially near the pedal boats on the park’s lake.

National Museum of Anthropology

The Museo Nacional de Antropología is world-famous for its extensive collections of archaeological and anthropological artifacts dating back prior to the Spanish arriving in Mexico. It contains the world’s largest collection of ancient Mexican art and also has various exhibits about Mexico’s present-day indigenous groups.

This is the most visited museum in Mexico, receiving more than two million visits per year.

If you want to get the most out of your Anthropology Museum experience and you’re not particularly good at guiding yourself through museums, I’d highly recommend a guided museum visit!

This affordable tour will help you learn about all the key highlights of the museum and enrich your visit SO much more.

Chapultepec Zoo

Oh, and did we mention there’s a zoo in the park too? Normally, I’m not one to visit zoos when I travel, but how can you say no to free admission—especially when it’s home to giant pandas and the Xochimilco axolotl (a quirky, smiley-faced salamander native to Mexico; also a Pokemon!)?

If you’re an animal lover, pop in for an hour or two while you’re here. Alongside the pandas and axolotls, you’ll find other emblematic residents include elephants, monkeys, the Mexican wolf, jaguars, and the tiny, elusive Teporingo volcano rabbit.

Best of all? It won’t cost you a single peso. 

Visit the Chapultepec Market

I first discovered this tianguis while wandering around Mexico City aimlessly on a Saturday afternoon. It was one of the best discoveries of my entire trip! If you love browsing around and shopping for local goods, this is the place to do it.

What you’ll find at this Saturday market is a lot of vendors selling anything from local art, handcrafted goods, beaded jewelry, old books, and other curiosities. In between the browsing, be sure to stop at some of the food stands to get a taste of the local gastronomy.

Many times, there are other free activities going on such as small musical performances. It’s a great place to try local street food, catch a puppet show, shop for souvenirs, or just wander around soaking up the atmosphere!

Fun Fact: A tianguis is an open-air market or bazaar that is traditionally held on certain market days in a city neighborhood in Mexico and Central America. The city has more than 1,400 tianguis and many have been around for centuries. You can find tianguis pretty much everywhere, so keep a lookout while strolling through the city!

Explore La Condesa

This neighborhood is undeniably hip and trendy, with new businesses and boutiques popping up constantly. You can expect to find many vintage shops, specialty shoe shops, jewelers, and accessory shops lining the avenues in La Condesa.

To fulfill your shopaholic dreams, head specifically to the following avenidas: Michoacán, Amsterdam, Tamaulipas and Vicente Suárez. Avenida Amsterdam is, in my opinion, one of the prettiest streets in all of the city!

There is also an incredible food scene here! You’ll find food from all different influences, starting with authentic tacos and ending in open-concept restaurants that are bright and airy.

Head to Lardo, an Instagram-worthy restaurant with plants lining the exterior and exceptional food served inside. For tacos, El Kalimán boasts the best authentic tacos in the neighborhood.

While you’re here, hang out Parque Mexico and Parque Espana, both of which are perfect for jogging, strolling, and plain old people-watching. Spend some time enjoying the Art Deco buildings, a testimony to its heyday during the ’20s and ’30s.

Walk to the Roma Norte area

After you work up an appetite from all the exploration, it’s time to head to the Roma Norte neighborhood, the coolest neighborhood in Mexico City.

This hipster haven, split into Roma Norte and Roma Sur, is a quirky blend of art deco mansions, colorful street art, and a retro-elegant vibe thanks to its many businesses set inside repurposed townhouses. Think of it as the cool, creative cousin of nearby Condesa.

Between the two Roma areas, Roma Norte is the one that caters more to expats and tourists.

Roma Norte is a food lover’s dream, home to iconic spots like Contramar (known for their aguachiles and their famous pescado a la talla dish) and markets like Mercado Medellín and Mercado Roma.

Grab a seat at El Parnita for classic Mexican dishes or sip on expertly brewed coffee at Quentin Cafe or Drip Specialty Coffee (if you go to Drip, say hi to Benito the black pug!).

You can explore offbeat museums like Museo del Objeto del Objeto (MODO) or check out the cutting-edge exhibits at Galería OMR.

Looking to fully taste the culinary renaissance of the Roma neighborhood?

Go for the Colonia Roma Food Tour where you’ll be able to sample tasty fish tacos, Oaxacan specialties, French cuisine, and mezcal while learning about the neighborhood’s history and development into one of Mexico City’s hottest dining spots.

Get Jenni’s Street Quesadillas

Feeling more like street food? There is no better street vendor in Roma Norte than Jenni’s Street Quesadillas!

Jenni, the famed quesadilla lady of Roma Norte, can be found on the corner of Colima and Merida every morning around 11 a.m. Locals come in droves to eat quesadillas, tlacoyos, and pambazos. You can get these filled with meat or vegetables of your choice.

We especially love quesadillas filled with flor de calabaza (squash flowers). Try one for yourself!

Grab drinks at Licorería Limantour

If you could only visit one bar in all of Mexico City, make it Licorería Limantour! This cocktail bar has become an institution in Mexico City’s bubbling nightlife scene and was even voted as one of the world’s best bars.

The space is beautiful, the drinks are colorful, creative, and delicious as heck, and there is really nothing to not like about this place!

Because it’s world-renowned now, you’ll want reservations — especially if you’re visiting with a larger group!

Nightlife at Zona Rosa

Keep the party going by heading to Zona Rosa for some energetic nightlife!

Zona Rosa is a small section of the Juarez neighborhood that is known for its nightlife! This is a neighborhood perfect for party animals.

You can stroll through the neighborhood during the day to check out some of the fun, eclectic stores ranging from new and trendy ones to those selling vintage wares and authentic Mexican items.

But once night falls, you can bet you’ll find some of the liveliest bars and restaurants here (specifically on Calle Genova).

I have yet to dive deep into Mexico City’s nightlife, but I have gone to Handshake Bar in the Zona Rosa area. HIGHLY RECOMMEND! I don’t love cocktails per se, but all 17 of our drinks were amazing.

It’s another World’s 50 Best Bars, so reservations are a must and should be made ASAP. I noticed that they had a line for walk-up visitors, but it looked long and moved slowly.

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Day 3: Coyoacán and Xochimilco

Day 3 is all about Coyoacán, a charming colonial neighborhood that feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of central Mexico City. Since it’s a bit out of the way, plan to spend the whole day here—it’s an area worth slowing down for.

Coyoacán is most famous as the home of Frida Kahlo’s iconic blue house, now the Museo Frida Kahlo.

But there’s more to Coyoacán than just Frida. Wander through the Mercado de Coyoacán, a lively local market where you can sample local eats like tostadas, tamales, and churros. Don’t forget to explore the neighborhood’s cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lively plazas.

ITINERARY DECISION: if Xochimilco is also on your bucket list (it’s so touristy, but so fun!), consider combining both areas into one day.

What is Xochimilco? This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its colorful floating gardens and trajineras (gondola-like boats). Floating down the canals is a quintessential Mexico City experience, complete with mariachi music, guacamole, food vendors, and a family-friendly party atmosphere.

Traffic in CDMX is no joke. On my last trip, it took nearly two hours by Uber to get to Xochimilco from Polanco. That’s why, if both areas interest you, you should do both on the same day.

Don’t want to deal with the logistics of planning your day out to Coyoacán and Xochimilco? There are affordable guided tours that combine Coyoacán and Xochimilco into one seamless day trip. These full-day tours typically include a visit to Frida Kahlo’s house, a stroll through Coyoacán’s colonial streets, and a float down Xochimilco’s canals—all without the stress of navigating traffic or organizing transportation.

Whether you stick to Coyoacán or add Xochimilco to the mix, Day 3 is all about embracing the slower, more colorful side of Mexico City—just make sure to plan ahead to avoid spending half your day in traffic!

If you’d rather DIY it, we’ve got you covered below.

Grab breakfast and explore Coyoacán

Begin your day with a visit to the Coyoacán neighborhood, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Mexico City dating back to pre-Hispanic times. The entire area of Coyoacán is quite big, but you’ll mostly be hanging out in Centro de Coyoacán.

The charm of this neighborhood is helped by the quiet, cobblestone streets that line the area mixed with the colorful bohemian-style houses dotting the streets. You’ll really get that old, traditional charm while strolling through the streets of Coyoácan!

Get a quick bite to eat and explore the many museums, cafés, bookstores, and markets of this Mexican neighborhood to get a real taste of the local culture.

Where To Eat In Coyoacán:

• Café Avellenada – offering amazing single origin coffees + light bites.
• Cafe El Jarocho – a local institution known for grab-and-go coffee and pastries. I recommend trying cafe de olla and a panque de elote (corn cake).

La Casa Azul / Frida Kahlo Museum

Museo de Frida Kahlo is an unmissable attraction in Mexico City. This captivating museum was by far one of the main highlights of my first trip to Mexico City!

Coyoacán is where Frida Kahlo spent most of her life, having lived in the same house until her death in 1954. This house, known as La Casa Azul (The Blue House) was donated by her husband Diego Rivera with the intention of making it a museum in her honor.

The house is adorned as any old house would be, with personal items and artifacts, but it’s also completely decked out in her artwork.

Pro Tip: To beat the crowds, make sure to either have a pre-bought ticket or arrive early (ideally just before they open for the day). The walk-up entrance line can get incredibly long. Your ticket also gives you entry to Diego Rivera’s historic museum, Museo Anahuacalli, located a 15-minute drive away.

Mercado de Coyoácan

One of my favorite markets in Mexico is Mercado de Coyoácan. This market provides a healthy mix of local and touristy goods, featuring everything from groceries to brightly colored handmade artisan items.

If you’re looking to bring something back for the folks at home, the Mercado de Coyoacán is the perfect spot to hunt for souvenirs at prices that are generally lower than those in central Mexico City.

Need a bite to eat? We love the seafood tostadas at Tostadas Coyoácan “Las Originales”. Follow it up with a paleta or ice cream from Helados Y Paletas Gloria.

Can’t get enough of the shopping? You can also check out the nearby Artesanías Coyoacán just a 5-minute walk away. This is a two-story market where vendors sell everything from candy to shoes, aprons to Lucha libre masks, and paintings to body piercings!

Xochimilco

If you’re up for something touristy yet fun, then you must make time to visit the neighborhood of Xochimilco. This neighborhood is distinguished by a number of rain canals that have been in existence since pre-Hispanic times.

With its brightly painted flat-bottomed boats (trajineras), traditional floating gardens, and network of flower-perfumed canals, Xochimilco—aka the “Field of Flowers”—is a unique way to get a peek into characteristics of the Mexican culture. Having said that, don’t expect to see actual flowers around you.

It’s more about the boat ride experience and the music. The colorful boats are a sight to see and the music from the Mariachi bands will make you feel like dancing!

Pro Tip: As this attraction is frequented by tourists, be prepared for vendors to come up trying to sell you food/souvenirs. If you’re not interested, just politely tell them no thanks!

Don’t want to do too much planning today? This popular combo tour will take you to both the Frida Kahlo Museum and Xochimilco.

On this tour, you’ll discover the colonial beauty of Coyoacán, visit Casa Azul, then drift through the waterways of Xochimilco while enjoying snacks aboard a trajinera boat.

Dine at a restaurant of your choice

Mexico’s dining scene is unbelievable, so you have to make time to try out a restaurant or two of your choosing!

For foodies who enjoy upscale or fine dining, try to snag reservations at one of the following restaurants:

• Quintonil
• Contramar
• Pujol
• Contramar
• Máximo Bistrot Local
• Azul
• Limosneros

For budget travelers who can’t get enough of the street eats, check out some of our favorite casual eateries:

• Taquería Orinoco
• Tortas al Fuego
• Los Cocuyos
• El Tizoncito
• Los Danzantes
• Café de Tacuba
• El Turix
• Antolina Condesa
• Tamales Madre
• … and any other street vendor you stumble upon!

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Day 4: Teotihuacan

While I would not recommend visiting Teotihuacan on a Mexico City trip lasting 3 days or less, I 100% do recommend it for travelers who have at least 4 days to spare! This is going to be the highlight of your 4th day in Mexico City!

Take a day trip to Teotihuacan

About an hour outside of town sits Teotihuacan, one of the most unforgettable places to visit in all of Mexico. This ancient city was founded around 200 CE and abandoned around 750 CE long before the Aztecs arrived.

When the Aztecs found this empty, impressive city 450 years after it was abandoned, well… it’s no surprise that they gave it the name that we now use for the city in English: The City of the Gods.

While at Teotihuacan, you absolutely cannot miss the impressive Pyramid of the Sun, the largest building in Teotihuacan, and one of the largest in Mesoamerica. In terms of size, it comes in third to the two Egyptian pyramids of Giza!

For this day trip, we recommend going on a guided tour for two reasons:

• so that all the logistics are taken care of for you.
• On top of that, visiting with a guide will help you learn a lot more about its history and cultural significance than if you were visiting alone. Our opinion? Staring blankly at a set of ruins is a lot less fun.

Here are two different options you can go with:

For an even more epic experience, you can even choose to see Teotihuacan by hot air balloon! That’s right this hot air balloon tour will take you over the pyramids in Teotihuacan Valley on a 45-minute flight. This one is a bit pricier than a regular guided tour, but trust, it will be that much more epic!

Explore / do last-minute shopping

Alright people, this is your last day in Mexico City. Was there a neighborhood that you visited that stood out to you that you wanted to go back to? Now is your chance to spend a few more hours there!

For me, this was the Roma Norte area. I was stunned to find so much shopping, so many restaurants to try, and so much beautiful architecture to take in!

Find that neighborhood that’s calling to you and visit one last time. You can aim to grab pre-dinner drinks and eat dinner here, too.

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GOT MORE TIME IN MEXICO CITY?

If you’ve got more days to spare in Mexico City, here are some other iconic things to do in the city:

Experience a Lucha libre event

Lucha libre, also known as Mexican wrestling, is very, very ingrained in Mexican culture and, in fact, has the second-highest spectator rate after football (soccer) in Mexico.

The current home of Mexican wrestling is the famous Arena Mexico. Built in the 1950s specifically for the luchas (fights), it now hosts regular luchas every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday.

On a lucha libre tour, you’ll discover the fascinating history, rules, and personalities of Lucha libre then catch a live match at Arena Mexico.

Two great tour options include:

Visit the Tequila and Mezcal Museum

If you love drinking tequila or mezcal, then you will love this museum located in Centro Historico. At the Museo del Tequila y Mezcal, you’ll get to learn all about the process of tequila and mezcal production, as well as browse the collection of over 700 different bottles.

The tasting at the end of the tour will grant you about a half shot of tequila and a half shot of mezcal, but you can purchase more at the bar.

Museo Soumaya

This museum has one of the most impressive-looking exteriors of all of Mexico City and can easily be recognized from anywhere! Museo Soumaya’s unique exterior is made out of more than 16,000 reflective hexagons and is a sight to see for architecture lovers.

Inside, the Soumaya also houses one of the most impressive art collections in the city. It features Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim’s private collection of over 66,000 pieces of art which range from Mesoamerica to the modern-day, including plenty of Diego Rivera pieces as well as Rodin’s “La Porte de l’Enfer” and “The Thinker”.

If that’s not enough to get you excited, then look forward to the artworks by Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Vincent van Gogh and El Greco. The best part is that this museum is completely free to enter!

Visit Polanco Neighborhood

Neighboring Bosque de Chapultepec Park, Polanco is one of the loveliest areas in the city. This neighborhood in Mexico City offers a more ritzy atmosphere compared to Roma Norte or Condesa.

In fact, Polanco is famed for its luxury shopping along Presidente Masaryk Avenue, the most expensive street in Mexico. You’ll also find two of the city’s top fine-dining destinations here: Pujol and Quintonil.

There is also a Saturday tianguis (outdoor market) in Lincoln Park to buy fresh fruit, vegetables, tacos, and other Mexican goodies.

Barrio Alameda

Barrio Alameda is one of Mexico City’s coolest and most stylish places to shop, grab lunch or get a quick drink with your buddies. Located in Centro, this building is home to 30+ businesses ranging from food and drink establishments, as well as fashion and art galleries.

You can pick up vintage clothes, old-school vinyls, sneakers, and handmade hats all under one roof!

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MAP OF THE 4-DAY MEXICO CITY ITINERARY

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WHERE TO STAY IN MEXICO CITY

For first-timers, we think these four areas make the most sense: Centro, Roma Norte, Condesa, or Polanco.

El Centro Histórico

Good for: Travelers who want to be in the middle of all the action, history buffs 

This is the best neighborhood to stay in if you’re looking to take in as much history as possible during your trip. A lot of the city’s famous museums and landmarks are located here.

Roma Norte

Good for: architecture lovers, artists, 20- and 30-somethings, and travelers looking for a hip/trendy neighborhood

Roma Norte is a hipster haven. It’s got a quirky blend of art deco mansions, colorful street art, and a retro-elegant vibe thanks to its many businesses set inside repurposed townhouses. Think of it as the cool, creative cousin of nearby Condesa.

Roma Norte’s dining scene is off the charts, so if you love food, base yourself in this area.

La Condesa

Good for: Travelers looking for a trendy, yet relaxed neighborhood; good shopping and nightlife

This neighborhood is undeniably hip and up-and-coming, with new businesses and boutiques popping up constantly. Among the stunning art deco buildings, you can expect to find many vintage shops, specialty shoe shops, jewelers, and accessory shops lining the avenues in La Condesa.

If you’re hoping to spend your days strolling through tree-lined boulevards, shopping in hip boutiques, trying the latest and greatest restaurants, and being in close proximity to many of Mexico City’s most famous landmarks, this is the neighborhood for you.

For more details on where to stay in Mexico City…

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WHERE TO EAT IN MEXICO CITY

Mexico City’s got a lot of good food, and there’s a wide range of options to fit literally any budget. Below are some of the most popular fine dining options and my favorite affordable restaurants / street eats.

WORLD-FAMOUS FINE DINING OPTIONS

• Quintonil
• Contramar
• Pujol
• Máximo Bistrot Local
• Azul
• Limosneros

COCKTAIL BARS

• Licorería Limantour
• Handshake Bar
• Tokyo Music Bar
• Hanky Panky Cocktail Bar
• Xaman Bar

CHEAP AND DELICIOUS EATS

• Taquería Orinoco
• Tortas Al Fuego
• Los Cocuyos
• El Tizoncito
• El Huequito
• Los Danzantes
• Café de Tacuba
• El Turix
• Super Tacos Chupacabras
• Antolina Condesa
• Tamales Madre

BAKERIES AND SWEETS

• Panaderia Gala
• Cuina
• Pastelería Ideal
• Churrería El Moro
• La Rifa Chocolatería

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BEST TIME TO VISIT MEXICO CITY

While March through May is generally known as the ‘most popular’ time to visit Mexico City, we recommend visiting Mexico City between the months of March to April and October to November. These months will be your best bet for dry and mild weather.

• High Season: March to May – highs in the mid to high 70s – best weather of the entire year
• Shoulder Season: October to November – chillier weather than summer – best for experiencing Mexican festivities (there will be Day of the Dead events all month long in Oct)
• Low season: June to September and December to February – summer months are still warm but super rainy and winter months are the coldest – the best time for budget travelers

Best months to visit

During my most recent visit in March, I found the weather to be absolutely amazing. It was in the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 24-28°C) during the day, with nights cooling down just a bit. Humidity wasn’t bad at all either!

Late October is a really popular time to go due to Day of the Dead celebrations, where orange and pink marigolds pop up all over town, adorning altars to the city’s departed. It might still be rainy, but with the festive atmosphere running through the city’s veins, the rain can be easily shrugged off.

Once the winter months roll around, the city quiets down and is met with cooler, drier weather. While it can still be in the high 60s to low 70s during the day, you will most definitely need a jacket once the sun goes down. This can be a great time to find flight/hotel deals!

Worst months to visit (with an exception!)

Try to avoid visiting from mid-May to mid-October. That’s Mexico City’s rainy season.

During this time, storms will frequently rain down on the valley on an almost daily basis. The rains tend to come in the afternoons and can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. While you certainly won’t be rained in during your entire trip if you go during these months, it is something to keep in mind as you plan your trip.

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HOW TO GET AROUND MEXICO CITY

Mexico City is super easy to navigate with the help of ridesharing, taxis, and its robust web of public transportation options.

You will most likely not need a car to get around in Mexico City (unless you are planning to go out on day trips from CDMX), but you will need to rely on some set of wheels to get around.

Similar to the above, the SAFEST and most convenient ways to get around Mexico City are by rideshare service (Uber, Cabify, Beat) or taxi.

Rideshare rides are often cheaper than using the city’s official cabs. This is how we got around 100% of the time during all of our prior trips to Mexico City.

The metro and the bus are other options if you’re looking for the cheapest transportation option, but they aren’t the safest for tourists.

While I have not experienced any crime on the Metro myself, a long-time resident of CDMX and reader of the blog let me know that riding the Metro is not the safest way to travel throughout the city.

There have been many horror stories of people getting pickpocketed or even robbed at knifepoint. These people do it for a living and are very calculated about where they do their criminal acts to avoid getting caught.

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ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR MEXICO CITY

• Mexico City sits about 7,382 feet above sea level. You’ll want to prepare yourself for the high elevation by drinking lots of water, avoiding alcohol your first day, and using sunscreen at all times.
• Mexico City’s air pollution is pretty bad, so on days when the air quality is extra poor, you’ll want to travel with a mask to avoid breathing in all the bad air.
• Do not use the metro after dark, especially if you are traveling alone. The metro and its surrounding areas can be hotspots of crime at night. It’ll be better to just order an Uber, just to be safe.
• Avoid moving around the city during rush hour. The roads, buses and trains are especially crowded from 7 am to 10 am and 6 pm to 9 pm. Stick to walking during these hours or prepare to be on the road with a lot of others.
• Most museums are closed on Mondays. If your 4 days in Mexico City fall on a Monday, do plan accordingly and try to schedule your museum days either before or after Monday. Other aspects of the city (restaurants, bars, shops, etc.) are business as usual.
• During lunch try comida corrida, the three / four-course lunches that many restaurants serve at a fixed price. The value for food is great!
• As a general rule, tip a minimum of 10% in restaurants and bars. Tipping taxi drivers or street vendors is not necessary.
• Don’t flush your toilet paper! Most places in Mexico have plumbing that isn’t equipped to deal with excess paper, so be sure to throw your used toilet paper in the trash bin instead. (This one is hard, but do try to ignore your muscle memory of tossing it in the toilet!)
• Exercise caution when traveling throughout Mexico City. Do not flash your money or phone freely, even when taking taxis or Ubers. It is not too uncommon for phones/other belongings to be snatched right out of car windows. (This actually happened to one of our Uber drivers while she was giving us a ride…)

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We hope that this 4-day Mexico City itinerary has inspired you to try something new! If you have any questions about the destinations or have your own travel tips to share, please don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments below.

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