beautiful places to visit near mexico city

20 Best Day Trips From Mexico City You Can’t Miss in 2024

Looking to book a Mexico City DAY TRIP?

While there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Mexico City, there are also so many amazing day trips from Mexico City you can take within a 1-4 hours drive.

Don’t want to drive? Book this Best Mexico City Day Tour — Exploring the Waters of Tolantongo’s Hot Springs and Thermal Baths (Rated 5 Stars)

If that day trip to Tolantongo isn’t for you — no worries! You’ll also find quite a few of the Central Mexico UNESCO Sites on this list, as well as historic cities and pueblos magicos (Mexico magic towns).

By the end of this article, you’re going to find the perfect day trip from Mexico City that will make your CDMX trip feel enriched.

Ready to discover the BEST day trips to all the amazing cities near Mexico City? Let’s get to it so that you can find the right popular day trip from Mexico City for you.

Day Trips from Mexico City

Best mexico city car rentals.

The easiest, fastest and most convenient way to go on a day trip from Mexico City is in your own private rental car from Discover Cars .

If you don’t want to drive, there are also tour options listed below near each of the day trip destinations.

While driving in Mexico is considered quite safe, check out this article, Renting A Car in Mexico City: Everything You Need to Know .

After reading, you’ll feel confident about renting a car and driving in Mexico City and Central Mexico.

The 20 Best Day Trips from Mexico City

1. teotihuacan ruins.

📍 Teotihuacan Pyramids is located in the pueblo magico of San Juan Teotihuacan, in Estado de Mexico (Mexico State), about 75 minutes from Mexico City.

Planning to visit Teotihuacan (pronounced tay-oh-tee-wok-on ) from Mexico City?

You can’t go wrong, as the famous Teotihuacan Ruins in Mexico are a place any visitor will want to see while traveling to Mexico City.

In fact, this is one of the most common Mexico City day trips, and one of the best things to do in Mexico .

Historians date this incredible construction as early as 300 BC, making it well worth a visit and a place in your Mexico City itinerary , to get up close with Mexico’s incredible history.

Teotihuacan has been used by various pre-columbian civilizations, from the Teotihuacanos to the Aztecs.

As this UNESCO World Heritage Site is so interesting, the best way to visit Teotihuacan is with a guide.

While possible to see on your own, someone who understands the complexities of this ancient marvel will help you understand why Teotihuacan is such a special place.

15 Highest Rated Teotihuacan Tours from Mexico City

For those who want to climb the Teotihuacan pyramids, it is permitted to do so. In fact, climbing pyramids in Mexico is part of what makes day trips from Mexico City to Teotihuacan so popular!

While the trek isn’t easy, you can climb the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl (pronounced ketz-al-co-ah, the Aztec Feathered Serpent God), the Pyramid of the Moon and Pyramid of the Sun. This is the largest of the three.

When visiting Teotihuacan, make sure to wear eco-friendly sunscreen and bring your reusable Water-To-Go Bottle , which also filters the water to help you with how to NOT get sick in Mexico .

You’ll also want appropriate footwear to both climb the pyramids and walk the large site. With that much walking and climbing, the wrong shoes will ruin your Teotihuacan day trip from Mexico City.

Make sure to pack your camera to take plenty of photos and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the pyramids, Teotihuacan Museum and Sculpture Garden.

It’s best to arrive early in the morning so you can avoid the crowds and the heat, and plan to spend one full at this Mexico bucket list place.

Best Teotihuacan Tours from Mexico City

Many travelers would say that no trip to Mexico City is complete without a visit to the ancient city of Teotihuacan.

You can go to Teotihuacan on your own , or book one of these best tours for your trip to Teotihuacan.

day trips from mexico city to tolantongo

2. las grutas tolantongo hot springs.

📍 Las Grutas de Tolantongo is located in Hidalgo state, about four hours from Mexico City by car.

Las Grutas de Tolantongo (pronounced toe-lawn-tong-go), AKA Tolantongo caves, is one of the most Instagram worthy places in Mexico.

It is an amazing Mexico City day trip — but only if you go with a group tour — otherwise you’ll have to stay the night at a Tolantongo hotel or Tolantongo campground.

Want to leave Mexico City and get out into nature? These best Mexico City to Tolantongo Tours are just what you need.

This turquoise water playground sits at 4,200-feet (1,280 m) above sea level in Mezquital Canyon in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico.

This state isn’t popular with tourists, which is a shame because Hidalgo is safe and has many other amazing places, like Pachuca , Huasca de Ocampo and Tula de Allende .

The word tolantongo comes from the Aztec word tonaltonko , meaning “where it feels warm,” and like the name says, the water at Tolantongo is always warm.

It comes from hot springs and underwater thermal pools, which heat all the waters throughout Las Grutas de Tolantongo.

The word gruta means cave (or grotto), and Tolantongo does have one.

There’s also the pools on the side of the cliff, a river, zipline, suspension bridge, regular swimming pools, hotels, campsites, about 10 restaurants, convenience stores, lockers, medical facilities, and more — Yes, Tolantongo is a big place!

As one of the best Mexico off the beaten path destinations, many have Tolantongo as one of their bucket list Mexico must see.

From my personal experience, the only way this works as a day trip is going with a tour — which I did, and highly encourage others to do. ⬇️ Check out your Tolantongo tour options below .

Best Las Grutas Tolantongo Tours from CDMX

Day trips from mexico city to xochimilco, 3. xochimilco (mexico city boats).

📍 Xochimilco is located in the southern part of Mexico City, in the historic Xochimilco neighborhood. It’s located about one hour from Centro Historico (Historic Downtown), south of the city center.

Looking to take day trips around Mexico City? Technically located within CDMX city limits, Xochimilco is certainly one of the day trips in Mexico City you can take.

Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mill-co ) is located in the south part of the city, about an hour from Centro Historico , so it can feel like a day trip.

One of the best places to visit in Mexico City, a trip to Xochimilco is a fun way to spend the day.

Depending on how long of a boat cruise you take, it can be a full day trip in Mexico City, or you can combine with a visit to the nearby Coyoacan neighborhood .

This unique part of CDMX can feel like a totally different world.

In fact, it can even have two worlds within it — one part is lively and busy with multicolored boats playing mariachi music, and in another part, it’s quiet and tranquil with lots of nature and no other people around.

The more popular way to visit Xochimilco, and the one you’ve likely seen online, is with lively parties on the colorful, gondola-style boats called trajineras (trah-he-ner-as).

At Xochimilco, one of the most popular places in Mexico City, you’ll hop on a trajinera and make your way through the canals as boats as mariachi bands float by to serenade you.

There are also boats selling tacos , tamales, beer and an ancient alcoholic beverage called pulque (pull-kay).

To visit Xochimilco sustainably , consider a tour to the chinampas (chin-am-pas).

These are the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco that have been maintained by local farmers for centuries, since the Aztecs hand-dug these canals.

Book your Chinampas: Living an Ancient Culture tour here!

Although you’ll have to visit the chinampas with a tour company, it’s a way to see a sleepy and natural side to Xochimilco, rather than the party side.

While cruising down the river with no one else around, you will hardly believe you’re in one of the biggest cities on Earth. I have done this tour, and it was amazing.

Best Xochimilco Tours from Mexico City

Day trips from mexico city to puebla.

📍 Puebla City, Mexico, is the capital of Puebla state, located about three hours from Mexico City by car.

The city of Puebla is among the best proper cities near Mexico City you’ll want to visit.

It is actually Mexico’s fifth largest city, and makes a fantastic escape from the country’s sprawling capital to somewhere a more manageable size.

It is also one of the only places in Mexico that hosts a large-scale Cinco de Mayo festival for this important Mexican holiday .

If you’re visiting in early-May, you’ll definitely want to add a Mexico City to Puebla day trip to your CDMX itinerary to experience this festive time in Puebla City.

Best Things to do in Puebla, Mexico

There’s so much to see on a day trip to Puebla, so you’ll want to plan a trip strategically. If it were me, I’d start in the center of the city and just wander, taking in the architecture and trying some street food.

Spend some time walking around in Puebla’s Centro Historico (Historic Center), a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful colonial architecture .

Many buildings are adorned with stunning talavera tiles, Mexico’s famed blue and white tiles, that are produced right here in Puebla.

Thanks to the flat terrain and wide sidewalks, the Puebla city center is very walkable. It’s home to a plethora of ornate churches, shops, museums and cafes.

Perhaps the most photographed of all Puebla’s beautiful places, be sure to stop by the Callejon de los Sapos (Toad Alley or Frog Alley), located on Calle 6 Sur.

This picturesque street is lined with gorgeous, brightly-painted buildings, outdoor cafes and adorable shops.

Here, you can pick up souvenirs like jewelry, local handicrafts, talavera pottery, and all kinds of treasures in one of the Puebla antique shops. It’s one of my favorite places to shop around the city.

Must-Try Puebla Mexican food

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, pop into El Mural de los Poblanos . This is known as the best restaurant in Puebla, Mexico to try the local cuisine.

Here, you can order the city’s signature dish, mole poblano, which has pre-hispanic origins. Mole (pronounced mole-lay), used as both a sauce and a marinade, is Mexico’s national dish.

Puebla might not have the name recognition of Oaxaca in the foodie department, but its cuisine is among the country’s best. It’s known as comida poblana .

When visiting, don’t miss out on all must eats and best Puebla food :

• Cemitas: Pronounced sem-mee-tas, these gigantic sandwiches contain pretty much everything.
• Tacos arabes : These “Middle Eastern tacos” are a cross between tacos al pastor and a gyro.
• Molotes: cigar-shaped fried masa dough stuffed with everything from cheese to huitlacoche.
• Chalupas: Open-face tacos that bear no resemblance to a Taco Bell chalupa! Chalupas are the most famous Puebla street food, and you can only get them at night.

Puebla to Cholula pueblo magico

Nearby Cholula pueblo magico (magic town) is located less than 30 minutes outside of Puebla’s city center.

Within this charming village, you’ll find the Great Pyramid of Cholula , which happens to be the world’s largest pyramid, by volume.

The pyramid is only partially excavated, and you can tour the interior via subterranean tunnels.

It is located in the Cholula Archeological Zone , beneath the iconic, yellow Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios (Church of Our Lady of Remedies), the most photographed of all Cholula churches.

Best Puebla Tours from Mexico City (& Cholula Tours)

Day trips from mexico city to san miguel de allende, 5. san miguel de allende.

📍 San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, is located in Guanajuato state, about 3.5 hours from Mexico City by car.

San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful colonial town with a very international feel — though some would call it a weekend getaway from Mexico City, more so than a day trip.

In the past decade or so, many people from Europe, Canada, and the U.S. have fallen under its spell and relocated to San Miguel for its moderate climate, authentic Mexican cultural vibe and gorgeous esthetics.

There’s a lot to see in town, but if you want to venture out a bit, head to the El Charco del Ingenio Botanical Garden . Nearby, there’s the two best hot springs in San Miguel de Allende, Spa La Gruta and Escondido Place .

You’ll need a rental car to access both, or you can take a taxi or Uber.

Best Things to do in San Miguel de Allende Mexico

Located in Centro Historico (Historic Downtown), you’ll find the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel .

If you’ve ever seen photos of San Miguel, you’re probably familiar with this iconic pink-colored Gothic church from the 17th Century — one of the most beautiful churches in Mexico.

The parroquia is just one building surrounding El Jardin (the Garden), located in the Zocalo, or the main Town Square.

Sit on a bench and enjoy people watching in this beautifully-manicured garden, as street vendors walk by and the sounds of live mariachi music fills the air.

When it’s time for a snack, head to one of the best restaurants in San Miguel de Allende, Chocolates y Churros San Agustin , located next to the parroquia .

Here, you can sample the most beloved sweet treat in San Miguel, churros and hot chocolate to dip them in, as well as other Mexican favorites.

As San Miguel is quaint, you’re within walking distance of everything from the beautiful Biblioteca Publica (Public Library) to the picturesque Instituto Allende (Allende Institute).

For shopping, head to the open-air San Miguel de Allende Mercado de Artesanias (Artisan Market) to buy Mexican folk art souvenirs. ( Submitted by Džangir of  Dr. Jam Travels )

Best San Miguel de Allende Tours from Mexico City

Day trips from mexico city to morelia.

📍 Morelia, Mexico, the capital of Michoacan state, is located about four hours from Mexico City by car. It also makes for great weekend trips from Mexico City.

Morelia is the capital of Michoacan state, and the 22nd largest city in Mexico.

At four hours west of Mexico City, Morelia is a great day or overnight trip with gorgeous-yet-affordable hotels like the stunning Hotel de la Soledad , known as the best hotel in Morelia .

This is one of the most European looking cities in Mexico, with classic architecture and beautiful stone fountains scattered throughout the town.

While so many of Mexico’s colonial cities are painted in varying bright colors, Morelia’s buildings are all kept in their natural stone.

These instantly recognizable and well preserved 17th and 18th Century buildings are built out of a characteristic pinkish-colored stone from this part of Mexico.

Best Things to Do in Morelia

One of the most iconic buildings, located right in the Historic Center of Morelia, is the beautiful baroque Catedral de Morelia . Head to the Plaza de Armas to see the Morelia Cathedral, beautiful inside and out.

The Plaza de Armas park makes a nice place to relax for a bit in this bustling city.

Besides the cathedral, the one-mile long Acueducto de Morelia (Morelia Aqueduct), which was built in the 1700s, is one of the oldest sites in town.

It is beautiful during the day, but head there at night to its 250 limestone arches lit up.

Head to the Mercado de Artesanias y Dulces (Candy and Crafts Market) to find souvenirs. As Morelia’s is off the main tourism trail, this Mexico hidden gem is much more affordable than Mexico City.

While there, try some of Michoacan’s famous ate (pronounced ah-tay) fruit candy. 

Right around the mercado, you can sample the delicious and authentic foods from Michoacan state, like carnitas michoacanas , and gazpacho , a fruit, cheese and chili mixture.

There’s also corundas , a delicious triangular-shaped tamale, you’ll want to try.

Best M orelia Tours

Day trips from mexico city to queretaro, 7. queretaro.

📍 Santiago de Queretaro, Mexico, is the capital of Queretaro state, located about three hours from Mexico City by car.

Santiago de Queretaro, or simply Queretaro (pronounced care-uh-tare-oh), has long been overshadowed by its colorful neighboring towns of San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato .

However, Queretaro City is worth visiting in its own right.

As it’s located about 45 minutes closer to Mexico City than San Miguel de Allende, you’ll have more time to wander this colorful and historic town.

Known for colorful buildings, fancy fountains and flower-covered houses, get your camera ready for Queretaro.

Queretaro Pueblos Magicos

Besides the capital city, Queretaro state has other noteworthy places and pueblos magicos (magic towns).

See the world’s third-largest monolith in the city of Bernal , and enjoy the Wine & Cheese Route in Tequisquiapan , Mexico’s second largest wine-producing region after Valle de Guadalupe .

🚌💨 To see the both of these magical towns in one day, book The Wonders of Queretaro: Private Tour from Mexico City !

Best Things to Do in Queretaro

From restaurants, historic sites, amazing restaurants, and even a beer garden, there’s seemingly no end to the amazing things to do in Queretaro City .

As Centro Historico (Historic Downtown) is charming and pedestrian-friendly, spend some time strolling the streets.

While walking, don’t miss the prettiest streets in Queretaro : Andador Libertad, Calle Francisco I. Madero, Calle Jose Maria Pino Suarez, Andador Matamoros and Calle Cinco de Mayo.

When it’s time for a walking break and a snack, head to some of the best restaurants in Queretaro, which also happen to be located in very pretty plazas.

In Plaza Fundadores , head to La Vieja Varsovia, and in Plaza de Armas , try El Meson de Chucho El Roto. For a unique Queretaro cafe, check out La Biznaga.

If you’re looking to try some local beer, head to the Queretaro beer garden .

Located inside an old textile factory, the Jardin de Cerveza Hercules is a fun place to eat, drink, people watch and be merry in historic Downtown Queretaro City.

Love museums? Queretaro has quite a few, including what’s arguably the best museum in Queretaro, the Museo Regional de Queretaro .

This beautiful building, once a cathedral, now houses an interesting collection of pre-columbian artifacts, sculptures and pottery.

Perhaps one of the most fascinating things in this city is the Queretaro Aqueduct .

Built in the early-1700s, the impressive Acueducto de Queretaro has 75 arches. It is beautiful during the day and at night when it’s lit up with different colored lights.

Best Queretaro Tours

Day trips from mexico city to bernal, 8. pena de bernal.

📍 Bernal, Mexico, is located in Queretaro state, about three hours from Mexico City by car.

The small pueblo magico of San Sebastian Bernal is well known for its Peña de Bernal, the third tallest monolith in the world at 1,420-feet-tall (433 m).

Bernal is worth visiting for those who enjoy hiking outdoors — though even if you don’t hike the Peña de Bernal, you can admire it towering over the landscape.

Bernal offers the chance to see a beautiful, authentic, off the beaten path Mexico travel destination.

The town is famous as a holistic healing destination, and many believe there’s an energy vortex in Bernal. It is a popular year-round Mexico City day trip, but many people head there during the Spring Equinox.

Best Things to Do in Bernal

Don’t miss the Finca Sala Vive by Freixenet Vineyard , one of the popular stops on the Mexico Wine & Cheese Route.

If you’re ambitious enough to climb Peña de Bernal , be sure to wear a sun hat, put on sunscreen, and bring a water bottle and food — as it’s a tough, uphill climb.

If you do want to hike up, know there are several stopping points along the way, so you never have to go beyond your comfort level.

One of the stops you need to make is the Capilla de las Animas chapel located at one of its high points.

It’s a wonderful architectural structure, where you’ll also get a scenic view of the town and the natural landscapes surrounding it. 

The iconic yellow Templo de San Sebastian is one of the must see places in Bernal.

All located just around it, sample some delicious food from Grucado Peña de Bernal and El Mezquite , known as the best restaurants in Peña de Bernal.

If you’re looking for amazing views while dining, head to El Mirador .

There are also great museums in Bernal like the Museo de la Mascara (Mask Museum) with beautiful cultural masks.

Nearby, don’t miss the Museo del Cine (Cinema Museum) dedicated to Bernal filmmaker Rosalio Solano, and Museo de las Animas (Souls Museum), with maps and oil paintings from the time of Bernal’s founding.

Located just outside Bernal, many also enjoy Central Mexico’s Wine and Cheese Route .

Among the best places on the Mexico Wine and Cheese Route, don’t miss the Finca Sala Vive by Freixenet Vineyard , and Cava de Queseos Bocanegra cheese cave. ( Submitted by Martin of Travel Explorator )

Best Bernal Tours

Day trips from mexico city to taxco.

📍 Taxco, Mexico, is located in Guerrero state, about three hours from Mexico City by car.

Taxco de Alarcon , usually just called Taxco, has also been called the most beautiful pueblo magico in Mexico. While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, Taxco certainly doesn’t disappoint in the aesthetics department.

Located up in the Sierra Madres, this hilly mountain town has interesting vistas from basically anywhere you’re standing or its iconic white buildings and peach-colored Spanish tile roofs.

It is also well known for its gorgeous silver art and jewelry, and as one of the few towns still mining silver in Mexico today.

Best Things to Do in Taxco Mexico

As this is a hilly town, a great first stop might be to take one of the vintage white VW bugs, Taxco’s taxis, up to the Parroquia de Guadalupe .

From this pretty church, you’ll get some of the best views of Taxco, and from there you can walk down the windy cobblestone streets of this town — instead of up them.

Taxco has a lot of charming callejones (cay-yay-hone-nes), or narrow alleyways. These adorable streets are beautiful, do all look similar, so be mindful you don’t get lost.

As you walk downhill, make your way back to the Zocalo (Town Square) to see the iconic Parroquia de Santa Prisca y San Sebastián (Church of Santa Prisca).

After walking for a bit, head to the El Adobe restaurant in the Zocalo next to the church, and see if you can snag one of the window tables.

If not, head to another restaurant with an outdoor patio, like La Parroquia Restaurant & Bar and Rosa Mexicano , because Taxco is all about the views.

As this is a silversmith town by trade, check out the many silver shops in Taxco to buy something made of silver, and even see some of the artisans working on their craft.

If you’re looking for other souvenirs, head to the outdoor Mercado de Artesanias (Artisan Market) next to the church.

Best Taxco Tours

10. grutas de cacahuamilpa national park (taxco caves).

One of the most must see Taxco sites, and a favorite among visitors, is the Cacahuamilpa Caves in Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park.

Venture underground and journey for about 1.5-miles (2.4 km) through this cave lit up with colorful lights that reflect off unique geologic formations.

Day Trips from Mexico City to Huasca de Ocampo

11. huasca de ocampo (basaltic prisms).

📍 Huasca de Ocampo, Mexico, is located in Hidalgo state, about two hours from Mexico City by car.

The Basalt Prisms of Huasca de Ocampo are truly spectacular, and one of Mexico’s most interesting natural wonders.

In fact, back in 2007, the Mexican Council for Touristic Promotion included the basaltic prisms on their list of the 13 Best Natural Wonders of Mexico.

Ranging in height from 75- to 150-feet-tall (22-45 m), these giant stone columns, located in the Santa Maria Regla Canyon , are unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

If the basaltic prisms weren’t enough, there are a total of four beautiful waterfalls cascading over them in some parts, feeding the San Antonio Regla dam below.

These basaltic prisms were formed millions of years ago during the Pleistocene Period. They are giant rocks formed by the slow-cooling of volcanic lava.

Rock column formations like these are very rare, but can be seen in a few other places in the world including Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland.

While at Huasca de Ocampo, start with a walk across the suspension bridge that crosses over the rock formations.

Afterwards, hike down to the bottom of the ravine, where you can actually touch the prisms and the waterfalls that run over them.

Located next to the prisms, head to the 18th Century Hacienda of Santa Maria Regla , one of the oldest haciendas in Mexico still standing.

It is a gorgeous estate, and was used as a filming location in The Mask of Zorro with Antonio Banderas and Catherine Zeta-Jones. However, it has a very dark history.

Day Trips from Mexico City to Real de monte

12. real de monte.

Besides Huasca de Ocampo, the state of Hidalgo has another pueblo magico worth visiting which is located nearby.

Real de Monte Mexico, sometimes called Mineral del Monte, was once one of the biggest mining towns in Mexico. You can still see the Acosta Mine to this day.

Head to the Plaza Principal (Town Square) to see the beautiful Spanish colonial buildings and old churches. Here, you can also sample a local delicacy called paste (pronounced paste-tee) from a Paste Shop .

These hand pies are similar to the Cornish pasty from Cornwall, England. As many Real de Monte residents trace their lineage back to Cornwall, this town has been dubbed “Little Cornwall.”

It is one of the most unique traditional Mexican foods , and many don’t even know pastes exist. The most famous place to try pastes in Real de Monte is Pastes el Portal .

Best Huasca de Ocampo Tours & Real de Monte Tours

Day trips from mexico city to valle de bravo, 13. valle de bravo.

📍 Valle de Bravo, Mexico, is located in Estado de Mexico (Mexico state), about 2.5 hours from Mexico City by car.

Valle de Bravo is a town on Lake Avandaro , located west of Mexico City. It’s known as the “Hamptons of Mexico City” thanks to the posh hotels in Valle de Bravo , gorgeous nature and relaxing vibes.

The beautiful lake, surrounded by mountains, makes boating and water sports very popular Valle de Bravo things to do, but don’t forget to look up to see all the hang gliders descending back to land.

The Piedra Herrada Monarch Butterfly Reserve , a habitat for millions (maybe even billions ) of migratory butterflies, is located just north of town.

In the spring, these butterflies begin an eight month migration that takes them all the way to Eastern Canada and back, during which time four successive generations are born and die. How they find their way back to their overwintering site remains a mystery. — UNESCO

This sanctuary is part of the larger UNESCO World Heritage Property Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico. If you want to take a Mexico butterfly tour , Valle de Bravo is one of the best places.

Best Things to Do in Valle de Bravo

Spend some time strolling the cobblestone streets, lined with well-preserved colonial buildings.

The beautiful Plaza de la Independencia park houses the 17th Century Parroquia de San Francisco de Asis church, and many great cafes here to get a bite to eat, like La Estacion.

Valle de Bravo has many beautiful places out in nature to explore, like Cascadas Velo de Novia (Bridal Veil Falls) , a waterfall you can walk right up to at the end of a well-maintained trail.

The  Mirador La Pena overlook, located high atop Valle de Bravo, provides unparalleled 360° views of the town and lake.

Ultimate Valle de Bravo Mexico Travel Guide

A boat tour around the lake is another great option, and of course, head to the Piedra Herrada Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary if you visit in butterfly season.

The season runs from mid-November to April, but the best time to see butterflies in Mexico is from January to early-March.

Visitors looking for a unique experience, can try out paragliding in Valle de Bravo . Jumps are done in tandem with a professional, so you can just enjoy the views as you glide back to land.

Best Valle de Bravo Tours

Day trips from mexico city to tepoztlan, 14. tepoztlan.

📍 Tepoztlan, Mexico, is located in Morelos state, about one hour south of Mexico City by car.

Looking to go off the beaten path near Mexico City? Look no further than Tepoztlan in the state of Morelos, located about an hour from Mexico City.

The mountain town of Tepoztlan is one of Mexico’s 177 or so pueblos magicos (magic towns).

Tepoztlan is one of the spiritual epicenters of Mexico, and many visit for weekend wellness getaway to experience a temazcal ceremony .

Staying overnight? These beautiful spa resorts — Hotel Boutique Casa Fernanda , Hotel Amomoxtli and Hotel Posada Del Tepozteco — are the best hotels in Tepoztlan.

Best Things to do in Tepoztlan

For many, no trip the Tepoztlan pueblo magico is complete without climbing way up into the mountains to see the Tepozteco Pyramid .

This mysterious Aztec pyramid, located high atop the town, is dedicated to Tepoztēcatl, the Aztec god of pulque (pronounced pull-kay). 

🍹 What is pulque? An ancient alcoholic drink made from the fermented agave plant, like tequila and mezcal , and very common to Central Mexico.

While not everyone appreciates pulque’s tangy taste and thicker texture, do make sure to at least try some pulque in Tepoztlan.

You can try it in its original flavor, or sweetened with things like mango and coconut to cut the tangy taste.

Visit the Tepoztlan Market

You’ll find pulque sold on the street by local vendors, or at the Mercado de Tepoztlan (Tepoztlan Market).

This bustling and colorful mercado (market) is a great place for souvenir shopping, sampling local food and getting photos (but always ask before you take one).

Besides pulque, you’ll find vendors in the market selling tepoznieves , an ice cream/fruit sorbet hybrid first made in Tepoztlan, and cecina. This thin, dried and cured steak is the most famous food in Morelos state.

For a truly unique culinary experience, be on the lookout in the Tepoztlan Market for these prehispanic foods — tlaltequeadas, (veggie pancakes), itacates (fried corn cakes), alaches and quelites (dark green veggies).

Best Tepoztlan Tours

Day trips from mexico city to pachuca, 15. pachuca.

📍 Pachuca de Soto, Mexico, is the capital of Hidalgo state, located about 90 minutes from Mexico City by car.

When looking for places to visit outside of Mexico City that offer a more local and authentic experience, Pachuca de Soto, usually just called Pachuca, must be on your list.

History, colors and culture are three things this city is not short of, so get your camera ready to capture your favorite scenes.

Located in a small valley, Pachuca (pronounced pa-choo-kah) is noted for three things: its charming fluorescent-colored buildings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the picturesque City Center.

Pachuca is the capital city of Hidalgo state, known for having the best barbacoa (barbecue) tacos in all of Mexico.

When visiting, also make sure to try some authentic Hidalgo barbacoa at some of the best restaurants in Pachuca , like Restaurante La Blanca and Taqueria Guerrero, both in downtown.

Best Things to Do in Pachuca, Mexico

Back in 2015, more than 200 homes in the hilly Palmitas neighborhood , one of the most depressed areas in Pachuca, became the colorful canvas of local artists.

The city-wide mural spans about 12.5 miles (20 km), and after this colorful facelift, more than 450 families returned to live in pretty Palmitas. 

In Centro Historico, Historic Downtown Pachuca, head to see the landmarks sites like Cuartel del Arte.

House in the Ex-Convento de San Francisco (Ex-Convent of Saint Francisco), this cultural center is home to a beautiful baroque church, art gallery and Fototeca Nacional Photo Library .

The Reloj Monumental , or Monumental Clock, is a can’t-miss neoclassical tower in the main square, Plaza Independencia .

The city’s icon, this 130-foot-tall clock tower (40 m), was donated by an English miner. It has machinery identical to that of the famed Big Ben clock tower in London.

All in all, Pachuca is an off the beaten path Mexico travel destination that will leave you in awe of its colors and history.

It makes an interesting day trip for anyone wanting to explore the outskirts of Mexico City, and the parts of Central Mexico so few will.

Tembleque Aqueduct : Mexico UNESCO Site

If you’re visiting Pachuca in your rental car , head just outside of town to the Aqueduct of Padre Tembleque, or Tembleque Aqueduct .

This 30-mile-long aqueduct, constructed from 1554-1571 under the guidance of a Franciscan friar named Padre Francisco de Tembleque, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

How to get from Mexico City to Pachuca

The trip to Pachuca is easy via your rental car , or an Uber or taxi for about $50-75 USD each way.

If you’re traveling in a group, splitting this fare is often more cost effective and faster than taking the bus.

For solo travelers and those familiar with bus travel in Mexico , head to the Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente (Mexico City’s TAPO Bus Station), and buy a ticket to Central de Autobuses de Pachuca.

There are direct buses, and the trip is 90 minutes and costs about $10 USD each way.

Day Trips from Mexico City to Cuernavaca

16. cuernavaca.

📍 Cuernavaca, Mexico, is located in Morelos state, about 75 minutes southwest of Mexico City by car. It is a popular weekend retreat for chilangos (Mexico City locals).

Cuernavaca is a super easy Mexico City day trip, perfect for lovers of history, architecture, nature and art.

As many of the old haciendas have been turned into resorts, you can stay in luxury for relatively little money at Anticavilla Cuernavaca Hotel and Hacienda San Gabriel de las Palmas .

Cuernavaca is the capital of the Morelos state of Mexico, often called the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its lovely, balmy weather.

The city has gorgeous views of the Tepozteco Mountains, and plenty to do on a day trip from CDMX.

Best Things to Do in Cuernavaca, Mexico

A few must see Cuernavaca sites include the Palacio de Cortes , the palace where Spanish conqueror Hernan Cortes lived in the 16th Century.

Today, this beautiful home-turned-museum, known as the Cuauhnahuac Regional Museum, boasts beautiful murals by Mexican artist Diego Rivera.

There’s also the Cuernavaca Cathedral , a 14th Century monastery complex, and bustling outdoor markets, like Mercado Adolfo Lopez Mateos.

For art and jewelry, head to Mercado de Artesanias y Plata (AKA Handcrafts Plaza) to purchase artisan pieces and souvenirs.

Outdoors lovers will enjoy exploring the nearby Lagunas de Zempoala National Park , a natural protected area with seven lagoons.

In town, spend some time just strolling around, but make sure to visit the pretty Jardin Borda Garden . ( Submitted by Tegan and Alex of Why Not Walk )

Best Cuernavaca Tours

Day trips from mexico city to tollan ruins, 17. tula (toll an ruins).

📍 Tula de Allende, Mexico, is located in Hidalgo state, about two hours north of Mexico City by car.

Mexico is a traveler’s paradise, with of course, gorgeous yet cheap Caribbean beaches , but also bustling cities with fascinating history, exciting culture, and utterly delicious food.

If you’re traveling to Mexico City , you already know the country’s capital personifies all of these traits.

Beyond the city itself, spend some time exploring the surrounding areas, which can be just as fascinating as the capital itself.

One of the best day tours from Mexico City is the city of Tula, home to the remains of Tollan.

🗿 BOOK YOU R Tula And Tepotzotlán Private Day Tour now !

Tula Ruins: Mexico Toltec Statues

The ruins of the former Toltec civilization’s capital city are located about 60 miles north of CDMX, in the city of Tula de Allende , or just Tula.

During the 9th-12th Centuries, Tollan (present-day Tula) was once one of the largest cities in all Mesoamerica.

Unlike most of the ruins in central Mexico, which have closer ties to the Aztec civilization, the ruins of Tollan are thought to have been influenced by the Mayans.

The central focus at the site, colossal statues known as the Atlantes, can be seen on the platform of the temple pyramid. 

However, there are other pyramids on the site, including a five-story high one upon which used to stand the Temple of the Morning Star.

An utterly captivating visit, especially for history buffs, Tollan should definitely be on your list of day trips from Mexico City.

Best Tula Ruins Tours

Day trips from mexico city to iztaccihuatl, 18. iztaccihuatl & popocatepetl (mexico city volcano es).

📍 Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park is located in three states, with Iztaccihuatl volcano in Estado de Mexico (Mexico state).

Flying into Mexico City, you might have noticed the two large, snow-covered mountains next to one another.

These two, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, are the second and third tallest peaks in Mexico, respectively, each at about 17,500-feet (5,334 m).

Iztaccihuatl (pronounced is-ta-see-wa-tel), is a dormant volcanic mountain popular with hikers, and Popocatepetl (po-po-ka-te-pet-tel) is an active stratovolcano.

The two are located in Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park , a 155-square-mile park (401 km²) that spans three states — Puebla, Morelos and Estado de Mexico.

The national park itself is a nice escape out into nature from bustling Mexico City, but many visit to climb Iztaccihuatl and enjoy the stunning views of the Valley of Mexico below.

While summiting is reserved for advanced climbers with mountaineering experience, hikers of all levels can make it to different parts. 🧗‍♀️ Note: Even on on some hikes that aren’t difficult, guides are required.

Best Popocatepetl & Iztaccihuatl Tours

Day trips from mexico city to tlaxcala, 19. tlaxcala (mexico firefly sanctuary).

📍 Tlaxcala, Mexico, the smallest state in the country, is located about two hours from Mexico City by car.

For being the smallest state in Mexico, there are quite a few things to do in Tlaxcala, Mexico (pronounced tuh-lack-skall-uh).

Tlaxcala has some of the oldest and most beautiful churches in Mexico, like the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption .

This important historical church has even been nominated to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There’s also the Museo de Arte de Tlaxcala (Tlaxcala Art Museum), which houses an impressive collection of Frida Kahlo’s early works, and the Basilica of Our Lady of Ocotlan , located just outside the historic City Center.

💒 Fun Fact: According to local legend, the Virgin Mary appeared at the Basilica of Our Lady of Ocotlan in 1541 and cured the entire town of a deadly plague. Today, many people make religious pilgrimages to the basilica.

Tlaxcala Firefly Sanctuary near Mexico City

Each year, from June-August, the Santuario de las Luciernagas ( Nanacamilpa Firefly Sanctuary ) in Tlaxcala comes alive at night with tiny glowing creatures.

As the window for seeing this natural phenomenon is so short, make sure not to miss it if you’re visiting Mexico City from June-August.

During these three months, many visitors descend upon the small town of Nanacamilpa to see millions of fireflies in the forest during their mating season.

Walking around this magical Mexico firefly forest is an experience you’ll never forget, as it looks like something straight out of a fantasy movie.

Best Tlaxcala Tours and Firefly Sanctuary Guided Tours

💡 Note: The firefly tours are only available in June, July and August.

Day Trips from Mexico City to Val’quirico

20. val’quirico (mexico italian town).

📍 Val’quirico, Mexico, is located in Tlaxcala state, about 90 minutes from Mexico City by car.

Val’quirico Tlaxcala was inspired by Tuscan aesthetics, with an incredible amount of detail going into its cobblestone streets and building facades.

Today, Val’quirico has evolved into more than just a residential community and entertainment village; it has become a popular destination for tourists seeking a taste of Italy in Mexico.

My boyfriend and I visited Val’quirico on a day trip and found it to be super charming. While it’s definitely a tourist destination, we enjoyed spending the day in Val’quirico, Mexico.

Best Day Trips From Mexico City Map

As Central Mexico is a larger area, the Mexico City day trip you decide may come down to location.

Each of the 20 unique options to take a day trip from Mexico City mentioned in this article have been pinned to the handy map of Mexico above, so you’ll have a visual idea of their location.

Best day trips from mexico city

Mexico unesco sites & pueblos magicos.

If you need help choosing a Mexico City day trip, consider visiting one of the pueblos magicos or UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

🇲🇽 Fun Fact: Mexico has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites of any country on the Americas Continent.

There are 35 of them in Mexico, and six Mexico UNESCO Sites are featured in this article — Teotihuacan, San Miguel de Allende, Xochimilco, Puebla, Morelia and Queretaro.

World Heritage is the designation for places on Earth that are of outstanding universal value to humanity… protected for future generations to appreciate and enjoy. — UNESCO

In this article, you also learned about the pueblos magicos near Mexico City featured — Bernal, Taxco, Huasca de Ocampo, Real del Monte, Valle de Bravo and Tepoztlan.

The prestigious pueblo magico designation is similar to a UNESCO Site, but limited to Mexico. These “Mexico magic towns” are some of the coolest and best towns in the country.

Mexico Travel Guide & FAQ

Is mexico city safe for travelers.

If you’re wondering about Mexico travel safety, or even Is Mexico safe for solo travel? — the short answer is Yes , for the most part Mexico is perfectly safe for visitors.

As travel safety is a complex question, head to Is Mexico Safe to Travel to Right Now? for a much more in-depth explanation.

🎧 Prefer podcasts? Check out the Episode 43 of my Dream To Destination podcast, chock full of Mexico travel tips.

While Mexico is generally quite safe for visitors, do keep in mind that no place on Earth is 100% safe. It is the largest city in North America, after all.

For this reason, you’ll want to follow the 10 General Safety Guidelines and other travel safety suggestions below. These are the same things you’d do when traveling anywhere, and they will suffice in Mexico.

Want an added level of security and peace of mind during these strange travel times? Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while traveling.

I’ll be honest, when I first started traveling solo, I wasn’t insured. However, after years of solo traveling, I wised up… Now, I even have a whole page of this website dedicated to travel insurance, because it’s just that important!

If Mexico and Mexico City travel safety are on your mind, get your FREE quote below now!

Make sure you enroll in the FREE   STEP Program  before your trip.

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, allows U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico to document your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

After you’ve registered, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City can contact you in the event of an emergency, including natural disasters, civil unrest, etc. STEP can also put you in touch with your family and friends back home in the event of an emergency while abroad.

• Always listen to your intuition — because your intuition is always right.
• If you get a sketchy or uneasy feeling about a person or place, get away from that person or place asap. Don’t worry about making a kind, nice or politically correct exit from a creepy person or bad situation — Just get away fast.
• Don’t walk home alone at night.
• Don’t keep your phone, keys, wallet, passport, or anything valuable in your back pocket.
• Learn some basic Spanish. If you can’t learn it, save this infographic as an image on your phone so you have something to use even if you’re off-WiFi.
• Take all of your belongings into the bathroom with you, rather than asking a cafe/bar neighbor to watch your things. This is annoying, for sure, but it works to not get your stuff stolen.
• Speaking of bar neighbors… don’t take drinks from strangers and/or leave your drink unattended.
• Don’t wear flashy clothes, expensive jewelry, designer sunglasses, etc.
• Keep some cash in your pocket so you don’t have to pull your whole wallet out every time you need to pay.
• This should be a no brainer, especially in the current travel climate — but get Travel Insurance from World Nomads, one of the biggest names in Mexico travel insurance. Get your free travel insurance quote below.

No, U.S passport holders do not need a visa to travel to Mexico from the U.S. This is another reason why, in general, Mexico is one of the best travel destinations from the U.S.

When you arrive in Mexico and go through the Immigration line, you’ll receive a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist card.

Though it’s called a card, this is really just a small piece of paper you’ll need to hold on to so you can give it back to Immigration when you leave the country. 

There is no charge for the FMM, but if you lose yours, there is a charge of about $600 pesos ($30 USD) to replace it. You’d also need to get to the airport an extra hour earlier than normal in order to do the lost visa paperwork.

The bottom line: Don’t lose your FMM!

How many days in Mexico City do I need?

5 days — If you’re just staying in the city, three days or four days will do. However, to really get to know this metropolis, I’d recommend five days in Mexico City .

I’d spend Day 1, 2 and 3 in the city so you get your bearings, and see some of the top CDMX sites .

After that, check out some of the places around Mexico City on Day 4. I’d highly recommend you leave Day 5 free for any site in Mexico City you missed.

As the largest city in North America, there’s a lot to do — like going to the top of the Torre Latinoamericana to see the views overlooking the city, visiting the Frida Kahlo Museum, and doing a walking tour of the Roma neighborhood.

What Mexico City airport do I fly into?

The main airport is Mexico City International Airport (code: MEX), which is about 45 minutes by car from Centro Historico (Historic Downtown).

If you’re renting a car in Mexico City , this is the best place to do so.

📲 Mexico Travel Tips: You’ll want to have a SIM Card in Mexico , so you have data at all times to be able to use Google Maps, Google Translate, call an Uber, check in with family and friends back home, and more.

Best Mexico City Airport Transfers

What do i include on my mexico packing list.

Mexico is a big country and has varied climates — and temperatures fluctuate than most people realize. Mexico City is a great example, as it’s MUCH cooler at night than during the day.

While most Mexico beaches and beach towns have warm and hot temperatures year-round, you’ll want to double check the weather in the specific place you’re headed.

While there’s no official “Mexico dress code,” it always helps to blend in. As a general rule, Mexicans tend to dress on the conservative side.

Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download

Even in hotter places and pueblos (small towns), jeans and long sleeves are the norm. While on beaches it’s normal to see shorts and sandals, in cities you’ll definitely stand out.

FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico

Need a more detailed Mexico packing guide? Download your FREE printable packing list for Mexico in this article , which covers Mexico beach packing and Mexico city packing.

This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico.

Final Thoughts: Best Mexico City Day Trips

As you can see, there are plenty of amazing day trips from Mexico City and great places to visit near Mexico City.

With some of the trips on this list about four hours away, you could even turn some of these into overnight or Mexico City weekend trips. If you want to check out all the great Mexico hotel options on Booking.com .

CDMX, as it’s known, is one of the biggest cities on Earth, so getting out for the day almost feels like you’re visiting another country.

Also, seeing the pueblos (small towns in Mexico) offers another insight into this diverse culture and its peoples.

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

©Martin M303/Shutterstock

Around Mexico City

With its daunting size and seemingly endless sprawl, the megalopolis of Mexico City might seem like a challenge to escape from, but even if you’re in Mexico’s capital for only a week, the ancient ruins, pueblos mágicos (magical villages) and stunning mountain landscape of the surrounding area should not be missed. Mexico City – like many capitals – has little in common with even its closest neighbors.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Around Mexico City. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Teotihuacán

North of Mexico City

This fabulous archaeological zone lies in a mountain-ringed offshoot of the Valle de México. Site of the huge Pirámides del Sol y de la Luna (Pyramids of…

Zona Arqueológica de Tula

Two kilometers north of Tula's center, ruins of the main ancient ceremonial site are perched on a hilltop. The highlight is standing atop a pyramid,…

Zona Arqueológica

Located two blocks to the southeast of Cholula’s central plaza, the Pirámide Tepanapa looks more like a hill than a pyramid and has a domed church on top…

Pirámide del Sol

The world’s third-largest pyramid – surpassed in size only by Egypt’s Cheops (which is also a tomb, unlike the temples here) and the pyramid of…

Pirámide de Tepozteco

Tepoztlán's main sight is this 10m-high pyramid perched atop a sheer cliff at the end of a very steep paved path that begins at the end of Avenida del…

Pirámide Tepanapa

The incredible Pirámide Tepanapa looks more like a hill than a pyramid, but it's still the town's big draw, and with miles of tunnels veining the inside…

Templo de Santa Prisca

The icon of Taxco, Santa Prisca is one of Mexico’s most beautiful and striking pieces of baroque architecture. Its standout feature (best viewed side-on)…

Museo Nacional del Virreinato

There’s a very simple reason to visit this wonderful, expansive museum comprising the restored Jesuit Iglesia de San Francisco Javier and an adjacent…

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Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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Mexico City  is a booming metropolis with cosmopolitan restaurants, world-class museums, and ultra-modern architecture popping up almost daily. It’s hard…

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Around Mexico City and beyond

Mexico has a lot to offer; an electric megalopolis, majestic beaches, exotic fauna and flora, great food, and beautiful camping grounds. However, the magic of this country lies within its mystical small towns scattered throughout the countryside. Keep reading to discover the most beautiful cities in Mexico.

If you are planning on paying  Mexico City visit, take a look at our curated list of the most beautiful cities in Mexico worth exploring around the capital. They are all accessible with a short bus ride from Mexico City.

5 day trips from Mexico City

1. puebla – puebla.

Similar to Tecozautla in Hidalgo, Puebla offers a delightful getaway with its own unique charm. For a rejuvenating experience, make sure to explore the soothing hot springs at Balneario Aguas Termales. These natural thermal pools, boasting temperatures reaching 40ºC, are enriched with minerals that can work wonders for your skin. While you unwind, you can also enjoy water slides, various pools, and relaxing whirlpool baths.

Puebla boasts historical gems such as the impressive Puebla Cathedral, a masterpiece built in the 16th century that showcases stunning architectural details. The Zócalo, or Main Square, serves as the heart of the city’s bustling activity, while the Cholula Archaeological Zone unveils captivating architecture dating back to 450 to 950 AD.

Food enthusiasts won’t want to miss out on Puebla’s culinary delights. Savor the delectable flavors of dishes like savory chicken mole, both the green and red variations, and for the adventurous palate, consider indulging in escamoles (ant larvae), a luxurious delicacy in Mexican cuisine.

The best time to go: If you want to avoid the rainy season, plan your trip between may and august, when you’ll find dry weather and nice temperatures.

How to get there: Hop on a comfortable bus from CDMX to Puebla for a scenic 2-hour journey, and you’ll arrive at your destination for around $12 USD.

2. Huauchinango – Puebla

Looking for a relaxing city break surrounded by rivers, waterfalls, dams and the “ Cerro de Zempoala ”, a mountain known for its perfect rock climbing façades? Then this place is perfect for you. This beautigf

Start by visiting the Xopanapa Waterfall, where you can hike, camp and rock climb. If you want something quieter, you can go on a boat trip through the Tenengo Dam or to the Campestre Las Truchas , a dam with a small waterfall where you can enjoy a deliciously prepared trout and go horseback riding while enjoying the scenery.

Do you want to take home a souvenir? Visit the craft shop “ El Sabor de la Sierra “, where you can find jams, liqueurs, typical Mexican sweets, wooden toys and amate paper.

The best time to go: late February and March, since the Flower Fair is held.

How to get there: Catch a bus Mexico City Huauchinango for $7 USD.

3. Huichapan – Hidalgo

If you go through the cobblestone streets of this beautiful city, you will discover colonial buildings, old houses, and quiet squares full of trees.

You will be able to find thermal hot springs and a zip line that overhangs an imposing 155-meter long aqueduct. Adrenaline lovers can get their fix in Huichapan!

The traditional dishes are carnitas, barbecue (mutton, beef or chicken) and meat or chicken mixiotes. The traditional drinks are the pulque de mamey and the Carnavalito (tequila, orange juice and cinnamon).

The best  time to go: after Easter is the Fiesta del Calvario, a five-day festival with dance, music, bullfights, and livestock as well as artisanal exhibitions.

How to get there: Bus Huichapan to Mexico City for only $12 USD.

4. Tecozautla – Hidalgo

Similar to  Huichapan , Tecozautla stands out for its spas with thermal baths, perfect for a relaxing time. We highly recommend you visit the Balneario el Geyser.  With a temperature of up to 38ºC, this thermal hot spring holds many minerals that will do wonders for your skin. In addition to its healing properties, it has water slides, multiple pools, and whirlpool tubs. 

Other staples of this town are the Ex-convent of Santiago Apóstol , founded in the 16th century by the Franciscan friars, the Main Square (Plaza Principal) and the Pañhú, an archaeological zone with typical architecture from the years 450 to 950.

Foodies should try the rich chicken and potato skins, green and red mole and, if you are very brave, the escamoles (ant larvae, considered luxury food in Mexico) and mesquite and maguey worms .

The best time to go: on July 25 the celebration of Santiago Apóstol and the Fruit Fair is held.

How to get there:  Sit on a comfortable bus for 3 hours from Tecozautla to Mexico City and you will arrive at your destination for $18 USD.

5. Zacatlán de las manzanas – Puebla

Manzanas means apples in english is, so it is fair to say that this quaint town is famous for having the best apples in the country. Whether they are dried, in spirits, in jams or right off the tree, the apples from Zacatlán de las manzanas are known across the region! The old Franciscan Convent, surrounded by foggy landscapes also reels in people from all over with its watchmaking tradition.

You also cannot miss the  Valle de Piedras Encimadas , where you can go horseback riding and explore all the rock formations.

Don’t forget to visit the Museum of Watchmaking and the floral clock located in the central square. Every hour, it interprets one of its nine melodies.

If you get hungry, we recommend you try the quesadillas with fried pork and mole poblano, a  special bread made in the town stuffed with cheese.

The best season to go: in August they celebrate the Apple Festival with music, dances, and parades of allegorical floats.

How to get there: $11 USD and 3h20 on the bus from Mexico City will get you to Zacatlán .

With a state-of-the-art bus system and a modern fleet of buses, you can easily visit all the most beautiful cities in Mexico by bus. 

Do you want to get the most out of your trip? Check out the 10 top commandments for bus travel in Mexico.

Planning a trip around Mexico? The best way to get around the country safely and on a budget is by taking the bus. Busbud helps you find the best fares, routes and schedules for your Mexico adventures. Check Busbud out now and start planning your next trip. 

Glad to hear things are going well for Busbud. 🙂

Very nice place to visit. And really this blog has done all the things to explain all the travel guides.

its me again. I had a passing thought. I could take a plane to mexico df, and possible take group bus tours to the “5 most….” is this something that you people can handle?? jw

Who can review more information related to Huauchinango – Puebla? I want to visit here. So, if you had visited, you could give me more details. Luv

Huauchinango – Puebla has attracted my curiosity quite a lot, I think this would be the first place I would go if I organized a trip to Mexico, thanks also for your article.

Xopanapa Waterfall had been absolutely gorgeous last time we’ve visited it! A must see if you’re around Mexico City!

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• The 7 Best Natural Attractions...

The Best Natural Attractions to Visit From Mexico City

Northern England Writer

It might seem that Mexico City is all about that cosmopolitan lifestyle, with hip bars and world-class museums. However, if you venture outside the city limits you’ll find a veritable wealth of exquisite natural attractions and activities to keep you occupied and give you some respite from the often overwhelming capital. Here are the best natural attractions to visit from Mexico City.

1. grutas de cacahuamilpa, guerrero, 2. nevado de toluca, state of mexico.

3. Prismas Basálticos, Hidalgo

Natural Feature

5. Amacuzac, Morelos

6. canals of xochimilco, mexico city.

7. Peña de Bernal, Querétaro

Interested in visiting? Book your place on Culture Trip’s five-day Mexico City tour , where our local insider will help guide you through this loud and busy city.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

Mexico City is the fifth largest city in the world, a sprawling metropolis where history and culture converge in a dynamic tapestry of bright colors, diverse cuisines, and lively districts.

I love it here. I’ve been a handful of times and never get tired of exploring and eating my way around the city. I always have an amazing time. In fact, I love the city so much I even ran tours here (and every single person I showed around was blown away). No one hates this place.

Unsurprisingly, in a city so large and with such a long history, there’s a ton to see and do here, from visiting world-class museums to feasting at tiny taco stands to exploring offbeat neighborhoods. You could easily spend a week here and not even scratch the surface.

Here are what I think are best things to do in Mexico City so that you can have fun and really get to know the city and culture on your trip to this vibrant capital!

Table of Contents

1. Take a Walking Tour

2. visit the museo nacional de antropología, 3. tour frida kahlo’s house, 4. attend a lucha libre, 5. day trip to teotihuacán, 6. peruse the mercados, 7. take a food tour, 8. sample mezcal, 9. float along the xochimilco canals, 10. admire the view from torre latinoamericana, 11. wander the zócalo, 12. relax in chapultepec park, 13. visit castillo de chapultepec, 14. check out the art and history museums, 15. tour a megalibrary, 16. marvel at the soumaya museum, 17. escape to the unam botanical garden, 18. stroll around roma and condesa, 19. visit a pueblo mágico, 20. offbeat things to do in mexico city.

Walking tours are an excellent way to learn a destination’s history and avoid missing any must-see stops. I always start my trips off with at least one walking tour as it’s the best way to get the lay of the land and connect with a local guide that can answer all your questions.

Estación Mexico Free Tours and the Monkey Experience both have a free historic downtown tour that can show you what the city has to offer. The former also offers four other free tours of different neighborhoods too. Even though the tours are technically free, always remember to tip your guide at the end!

For more walking tour recommendations (including paid options), check out this post .

Found within Chapultepec Park, this world-class anthropology museum is the largest museum in Mexico (it’s also the most visited, receiving over two million guests per year). Since 1964, it has housed the largest global collection of sculptures, jewels, and artifacts from ancient Mexican civilizations. The different time periods are grouped into comprehensive (and massive) exhibition halls with bilingual information signs, so be sure to give yourself ample time to explore it all. There’s a beautiful courtyard in the center where you can sit and people-watch for a bit.

Av. P.º de la Reforma s/n, +52 (55) 5553-6266, mna.inah.gob.mx. Open Tues-Sun 9am-6pm. Tickets are 95 MXN. Guided tours of the highlights start at 375 MXN (includes admission).

Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera are two of the biggest names in Mexican art. Frida was particularly famous for her portraits and self-portraits. A tour of their old home (“Casa Azul”) is a worthwhile experience to see where and how she lived, as well as some of her original artwork. It’s a really interesting house with a beautiful garden and lots of information about her life. The residence also hosts a variety of artistic workshops monthly, so check out the schedule if you’re interested.

This guided tour of Coyoacán (the surrounding neighborhood) includes a ticket to the museum, which you’ll visit at your own pace after learning about the area in which the two artists lived and worked.

Londres 247, Del Carmen, +52 55 5554 5999, museofridakahlo.org.mx. Open Tues-Sun 10am-6pm (Wednesdays at 11am-6pm). Tickets are 250 MXN (270 MXN on the weekends). You must buy your tickets well in advance (at least a month out), because they are in incredibly high demand.

Mexican “free wrestling” is a favorite national pastime. Extremely entertaining and affordable, lucha libre takes the sport to a whole new level. Grab a beer or a shot of tequila, and whatever you do, do not look away during a match as anything can — and will — happen. (Do not bring your camera though, as you will be forced to check it at the door.)

Arena México and Arena Coliseo are the main places to see a match. General seating tickets can be as little as 56 MXN (do not buy from scalpers, because the police are always around and you’ll get in trouble). Look for a taquilla (ticket booth) sign to be sure that you are paying the right price.

Guided experiences, like this lucha libre experience , are also available. During the match, you’ll enjoy a mezcal tasting and munch on chips and guacamole, and at the end, you’ll leave with your very own lucha libre mask.

Arena México: Dr. Lavista 189, +52 55 5588 0266, cmll.com/arenas/arena-mexico. Shows on Fridays at 8:30pm, Sundays at 5pm, and Tuesdays at 7:30pm

Arena Coliseo: República de Perú 77, +52 55 5588 0266, cmll.com/arenas/arena-coliseo. Shows on Saturday nights at 7:30pm.

I’ve been a few times and can’t recommend it enough (especially if you’re a history buff). We took our tour groups here and everyone always had an amazing time.

You can either do the day trip yourself (there are plenty of buses) or go on a guided tour that also stops at the Guadalupe Basilica , an important pilgrimage site. Either way, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, as the sun is punishing, and there’s little to no shade.

Admission to the pyramids is 80 MXN, while a full-day tour including transportation and a local guide is 540 MXN.

Mexico City boasts a kaleidoscope of bustling markets, each with its own unique charm. Among the most famous is Mercado de la Merced, a sprawling market hailed as the largest in town. Located east of the Zócalo, it’s mainly focused on food, with vibrant displays of fruits, vegetables, meats, and spices.

Another iconic market is Mercado Roma, a contemporary gastronomic hub that showcases the city’s culinary diversity through gourmet treats and artisanal products. For something a little different, Mercado Jamaica is a beautiful flower market, full of vibrant colors and fragrances. And for unique souvenirs, head to La Ciudadela, an artisan market which boasts an extensive collection of traditional textiles and handicrafts.

Finally, Mercado de Sonora stands out for its mystical ambiance, renowned for catering to spiritual and esoteric needs, offering everything from traditional herbs and potions to ritualistic artifacts. There’s truly a market for everything in Mexico City!

If you don’t want to explore on your own, you can join a guided tour that visits both Mercado de la Merced and Mercado de Sonora, including many stops to sample lots of authentic local treats Tickets are around 1,100 MXN.

My friend Anais runs Devoured Tours , offering in-depth tours into the food scene of CMDX, with five different four-hour options to choose from. On each tour, you’ll meet a local “tastemaker,” an expert in their craft who shares the process behind Mexican gastronomic traditions like making mouthwatering tacos or crafting exquisite mezcal cocktails. Tours start at 1,625 MXN.

If you just want to eat all the tacos (who doesn’t), join Sabores Mexico Food Tours on its Tacos & Mezcal Night Food Tour . You’ll enjoy tacos at a mix of traditional and contemporary taquerias and end your night sampling in the first mezcal bar in Mexico City.

I love mezcal. It’s is a traditional Mexican distilled spirit, crafted from agave, that’s renowned for its smoky flavor and complexity. I’ve learned a ton about it over the course of my visits to Mexico, but I’m always looking to try new flavors and dive deeper into the distilling process.

If you want to try mezcal and learn more about it, some unique places to sample it include La Mezcaloteca (a bar/library where you can do a tasting of five mezcals) and La Clandestina in Condesa (with 25 mezcals from all over the country)

At the Museum of Tequila and Mezcal near Plaza Garibaldi, knowledgeable guides will lead you through the intricate process of production, from harvest to distillation. You’ll also get to sample types of mezcal alongside different tequilas, so you can appreciate the differences between Mexico’s main two spirits. A ticket that includes tastings costs 340 MXN.

If you’re an early riser, you can even opt for a sunrise tour, during which you’ll get the waterways virtually to yourself. Tours start at 890 MXN.

Torre Latinoamericana is an iconic skyscraper in the heart of Mexico City. Completed in 1956, it was once the tallest building in Latin America. Designed by architect Augusto H. Álvarez, the tower rises 183 meters (600 feet) and consists of 44 floors. (It has resisted numerous earthquakes, thanks to its innovative design featuring a stabilizing core.)

The tower offers panoramic views from its observation deck, giving a good perspective on just how massive the city is. It costs 200 MXN to visit the observation floor ( get advance tickets here ), but if you go to the bar on the floor just below, you’ll get the same view for the price of a drink.

Francisco I. Madero Avenue 1, +52 55 5518 7423, miradorlatino.com. Open daily 9am-10pm. Tickets are 200 MXN.

Originally the main ceremonial center in the ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlán (located where Mexico City now stands), the Templo Mayor was destroyed to make room for the cathedral in 1521. In fact, the very stones that made up the temple were used to create the cathedral. You can now view ancient artifacts uncovered from the site, rediscovered in the 1970s, at the Museo del Templo Mayor (95 MXN to enter the museum and archaeological site).

When you’re done, head over to admire the stunning Spanish colonial architecture of the La Catedral Metropolitana. This 16th-century building dominates the northern half of the Zócalo and is free to enter. Inside, it’s incredibly ornate, with a floor that’s noticeably tilted thanks to the perpetual sinking of the city (due to its construction on a lake and swamp).

Chapultepec means “Hill of the Grasshopper” in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs. Spanning 686 hectares (1,700 acres), this park in the heart of Mexico City is the second largest urban park in Latin America (the biggest is in Santiago, Chile ). It’s one of the world’s most visited too, not only by visitors but locals, who love to set up shop grilling and picnicking on Sundays. You can also rent a rowboat or paddleboat and go out on Chapultepec Lake. Whenever I want to just relax and soak up the sun, this is where I go.

In addition to the countless paths to stroll, Chapultepec is home to a zoo and several important museums, including the Museum of Anthropology (mentioned earlier) and Chapultepec Castle (see below).

The park is divided into three sections. Section 1 houses most of the museums and is open Tuesday-Sunday 5am-6pm. Sections 2 and 3 are open 24/7, though like many city parks, it’s likely not the best idea to walk through it alone after dark.

The only castle in North America to house monarchs, Chapultepec Castle was built in 1725 as a large manor house for the viceroy (the Spanish colonial administrator). Abandoned during the Mexican War of Independence in 1810, it later became the residence of Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota in 1864, during the Second Mexican Empire (1864–67).

Today, you can visit the castle and meander through the magnificently decorated period rooms, manicured gardens, and terraces offering impressive panoramas. The castle is also home to the Museo Nacional de Historia (see below), which tells the story of Mexico from the time of Tenochtitlán to the Mexican Revolution.

Bosque de Chapultepec, Section I, +52 55 5256 5464, mnh.inah.gob.mx. Open Tues-Sun 9am-5pm. Admission 95 MXN.

• Palacio de Bellas Artes (Fine Art Museum) : This impressive Art Nouveau building with an Art Deco interior is a massive cultural center that hosts performing arts events. Its various galleries include murals by Diego Rivera and rotating temporary exhibitions. It is also home to the Museum of Architecture.
• Museo Nacional de Historia (National History Museum) : This museum, located in Chapultepec Castle, tells the history of Mexico over 12 permanent exhibition halls.
• Museo de Arte Moderno (Museum of Modern Art) : Located within Chapultepec Park, this museum focuses on modern Mexican art. Its most famous piece is Frida Kahlo’s The Two Fridas .
• MUAC (University Museum of Contemporary Art of UNAM) : This art museum on the university’s grounds also focuses on contemporary Mexican art, with video and sound installations, paintings, drawings, and more.
• Museo Nacional de Arte (National Art Museum) : Mexican art from the mid-16th century to the mid-20th century is divided into three main time periods (colonial, post-independence, and post-revolution).
• Museo de Arte Popular (Folk Art Museum) : This museum’s collection of Mexican folk art and handicrafts features traditional textiles, pottery, glass, piñatas, and alebrijes (brightly colored sculptures of fantastical creatures).
• Memory and Tolerance Museum : This newer museum tells the history of genocides and crimes against humanity, with a section promoting tolerance and inclusion of all groups of people.
• Tamayo Museum : Born out of the private collection of artist Rufino Tamayo, this museum concentrates on 20th-century international art (especially of the avant-garde variety).

Ticket prices vary, but generally range from free to 100 MXN.

The Biblioteca Vasconcelos, located in the Buenavista neighborhood, is a temple to books, often referred to as a “megalibrary.” The largest library in the entire country, it opened in 2006, covers an incredible 38,000 square meters (409,000 square feet), and houses over 600,000 books.

But the real draw for the visitor is not in the collection (which, though large, isn’t particularly noteworthy) but the building itself. The architecture is stunning, featuring transparent walls, six intentionally mismatched floors, and sculptures by prominent artists. It also has a focus on sustainability, with rainwater collection barrels on the roof, windows designed to light almost the entire interior naturally (yet without harming the books), and a green roof covered in plants that keep the building cool.

Don’t miss popping around the back to stroll through the quiet and spacious garden filled with trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Admission is free.

Housing 66,000 pieces of Central American and European art, the Soumaya Museum displays works not only by Mexican artists such as Diego Rivera and Rufino Tamayo but also by famous masters such as Botticelli, Dalí, and Rodin. The museum was donated and constructed by one of the world’s richest men, Carlos Slim Helú (a Mexican business magnate). The Soumaya is a stunning piece of art on its own, as it is covered in 16,000 hexagonal aluminum tiles that sparkle in the sunlight. It’s considered the most beautiful modern building in Mexico City. Admission is free.

Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. +52 55 1103 9800, www.museosoumaya.org/. Open daily, 10:30am-6:30pm. Free entry.

If you’re seeking a temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City, look no further than the Botanical Garden at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). Rooted in Aztec traditions that valued gardens for both medicinal and ornamental purposes, this sanctuary also emphasizes conservation and environmental education. It’s situated around lava formations from the Xitle volcano eruption, and the paths meander through naturally formed grottoes and past waterfalls and ponds teeming with koi and turtles.

The plants you can admire here include the world’s most diverse cactus collection, with 800 different varieties; there’s also an orchidarium and a medicinal garden. This is also a habitat for wildlife: keep an eye out for woodpeckers, owls, hummingbirds, rattlesnakes, lizards, and the Pedregal tarantula, a species exclusive to this small area of Mexico City.

University City, Coyoacán. +52 56 22 90 63. www.ib.unam.mx/ib/jb/. Open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, Saturdays from 9am-3pm. Admission is free.

Roma is renowned for its bohemian atmosphere, European-inspired architecture, and colorful street art. Condesa is a bit more laid-back, high-class, and refined, featuring Art Deco buildings and lots of sidewalk cafés. Parque México and Parque España are iconic green spaces that divide the two neighborhoods and are perfect places to sit and people-watch for a bit.

The pueblos mágicos (magical towns) are towns and villages that the Mexican government has recognized for their cultural, historical, and natural significance. To be so designated, a place must meet specific criteria, including having historical and cultural richness and unique architecture, traditions, and folklore. These towns often feature well-preserved colonial architecture, lively cultural traditions, and a welcoming atmosphere.

While they are scattered all across the country, there’s one located just over an hour from Mexico City: Tepotzotlán.

Known for its beautiful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, vibrant murals, and hikes to sacred sites in the surrounding mountains, it makes for a fun day trip, or if you have the time, even an overnight. There are buses that go to Tepotzotlán from Taxqueña (Mexico City’s southern bus station) every 30 minutes. A ticket is 184 MXN.

There are lots of unconventional things to see and do that a lot of visitors don’t experience. Here are a few suggestions of some of my favorites:

• Palacio de Correos de México : This beautiful post office is a fascinating mix of architectural styles, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Gothic Revival, and others. There’s a free museum on the ground floor featuring various elements of the post office’s history, including a huge mural made entirely of stamps!
• Ballet Folklórico de México : This renowned folk-dance ensemble showcases traditional Mexican dance and music. Their permanent home is the Palacio de Bellas Artes, where tickets start at 1,200 MXN .
• Museo del Objeto del Objeto (Museum of the Object of the Object) : This quirky museum is dedicated to everyday objects, showcasing the evolution of design and consumer culture in Mexico. Free admission.
• Museo del Chocolate : Learn about the importance and cultivation of cacao throughout Mexico’s history. There’s also an attached café, where you can sample chocolates in plenty of different forms. Museum admission is 80 MXN.

Mexico City is one of the world’s greatest metropolises. From iconic landmarks like the historic Zócalo and the majestic Teotihuacán pyramids to the vibrant markets, diverse neighborhoods, and thriving culinary scene, it is utterly captivating. No matter how long you have here, these things to do will keep you busy and ensure that you have an amazing visit.

Book Your Trip to Mexico City: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, here are my favorite hostels in Mexico City .

This post can help you pick the best neighborhoods to stay in .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Mexico City? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Mexico City for even more planning tips!

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Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mexico City

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger spends months each year in Mexico, and visited Mexico City most recently in 2023.

Mexico City is, in a word, magic. The capital of the country of Mexico, Mexico City (or Ciudad de Mexico) is a swirl of gorgeous architecture, art museums, fabulous restaurants, and hotels — all set on streets that drip with centuries of history.

The city sits at an altitude of more than 2,200 meters in the Anáhuac Valley, wreathed in mighty mountain ranges — just have a look at the two snowcapped volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, which stand guard in the distance.

Mexico City is one of the largest and most exciting cities in the world . Home to more than 21 million people, it's a thriving (sometimes chaotic) capital, home to the country's top tourist attractions , including the historic city center, more than 170 museums, theater, and even a few Aztec ruins.

Discover more things to do in this vibrant city with our list of the top attractions in Mexico City.

1. Zócalo: The Birthplace of the Constitution

2. the national museum of anthropology, 3. templo mayor and the great pyramid of tenochtitlán, 4. the palace of fine arts, 5. mexico city metropolitan cathedral, 6. the national palace, 7. chapultepec park, 8. paseo de la reforma and the angel of independence, 9. national history museum, 10. coyoacán & the frida kahlo museum, 11. the basilica of our lady of guadalupe, 12. alameda central, 13. the square of the three cultures and santiago de tlatelolco, 14. the house of tiles, 15. museo mural diego rivera and museo rufino tamayo, 16. museo soumaya, 17. explore the polanco neighborhood, 18. visit teotihuacan, 19. church of san francisco, where to stay in mexico city for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to mexico city, map of tourist attractions in mexico city, mexico city, mexico - climate chart.

The beating heart of Mexico City is Zócalo — the Plaza de la Constitución (Constitution Square) — where the country's first constitution was proclaimed in 1813. Measuring some 240 meters in each direction, it's one of the world's largest squares and was laid out almost immediately after the conquest of the former Aztec city of Tenochtitlán on which it stands.

In the early colonial period, the square served a variety of purposes, including as a bullfighting arena and market, while today, it's used for festivals, parades, and demonstrations.

Dominated by three of the city's most visited tourist attractions — the National Palace , the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor with its Aztec relics — Zócalo is the perfect place to begin exploring this historic city.

Hot Tip: A short stroll away from Zócalo, you can view three floors of murals by the famous artist Diego Rivera at the Secretaría de Educación Pública (education ministry). Entry is free.

One of the most important of its kind in the world, the National Museum of Anthropology lies in Chapultepec Park and is hard to miss due to the huge monolithic figure marking its entrance.

Built in 1964, this strikingly successful example of contemporary architecture is famous for its magnificent displays of old Indian art treasures, most notably in the Central Patio, part of which is roofed by a gigantic stone shelter supported by an 11-meter-tall column with waterfalls symbolizing the eternal cycle of life.

As spectacular as the building itself is its vast collection, which includes archaeological finds from extinct Indian cultures along with details of the lifestyles of contemporary Indian inhabitants of Mexico.

Other highlights include the National Library of Anthropology , founded by Lucas Alaman in 1831 and developed by Emperor Maximilian, which boasts more than 300,000 rare volumes.

Address: Av Paseo de la Reforma y Calzada Gandhi S/N, Chapultepec Polanco, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Despite the widespread destruction after the defeat of the Aztecs, a number of their important historic sites have been unearthed and put on display in recent years. The most important site is Templo Mayor, home to the remains of the Great Temple of Tenochtitlán, including the first relic discovered in 1978, a finely sculpted round disc more than three meters in diameter and weighing eight-and-a-half tons.

Further excavations — including the summit platform of an earlier pyramid with well-preserved temple walls, along with the skulls of sacrificial victims — indicate the temple site had been built over by the Aztecs and their predecessors 11 times.

A highlight of a visit is a walkway past the precinct of the aristocratic "winged warriors," where remains of residences decorated with multi-colored reliefs have been unearthed, along with evidence of the original paintwork.

Hot Tip: The vast majority of relics and artifacts uncovered are housed in two museums: the Templo Mayor Museum built on the temple site, and the nearby National Museum of Anthropology , widely regarded as the most important museum in Mexico.

Address: Seminario 8, Centro Histórico, 06060 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

One of Mexico City's most important cultural landmarks, the Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes) is an architectural gem. Towering over the adjacent park, this massive marble building — designed by Italian architect Adamo Boari with Art Nouveau and Art Deco influences — was completed in 1934 and is so heavy that it has sunk more than four meters, despite attempts to lighten it by removing part of its huge dome.

The palace serves as an opera house and concert hall hosting a variety of traditional and international dance and operatic productions. But many visitors also come here to view the impressive murals adorning its interior by famous artists such as Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and José Clemente.

On the 4th floor is the Museo Nacional de Arquitectura with rotating exhibits on contemporary architecture.

If you happen to be in town on Wednesday or Sunday, tickets to the Ballet Folklorico are a must. For nearly 60 years, this performance has brought the traditional costumes, dance, and music from all regions of Mexico to one stage for a performance that is beyond entertaining, colorful, and beautiful.

Hot Tip : If you're able to see a performance here, you'll also be rewarded with a chance to enjoy the theater's stunning interior décor, including its spectacular glass-mosaic curtain, made by Tiffany's of New York, depicting the Valley of Mexico and its two mighty volcanoes.

Address: Juárez, Centro Histórico, 06050 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Dominating Zócalo Square, the massive Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana de la Asunción de María) is one of the oldest and largest churches in the Western Hemisphere. Built atop part of the old Aztec temple precinct, construction of this massive basalt and grey sandstone structure began in 1525 and extended over 250 years.

In spite of the two neoclassical towers and certain other features, the façade creates a predominantly Baroque impression with its massive twisted columns. Standout features are the bell towers added in 1793 and the statues of Faith, Hope, and Charity on the clock tower, dating from 1813.

The cathedral's interior also shows a mingling of styles, with particular highlights being the richly carved Altar of the Kings (Altar de los Reyes) from 1739, with its superb devotional painting of the Assumption (Asunción de María) to which the cathedral is dedicated.

Also of interest are a chapel containing the remains of Mexican Emperor Agustin de Iturbide, and the crypt with its tombs of many of the city's archbishops, among them Juan de Zumárraga, the great teacher of the Indians and the first incumbent of the see.

Address: Plaza de la Constitución S/N, Centro, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Occupying the east side of Mexico City's main square, Zócalo, the immense National Palace (Palacio Nacional), built of reddish tezontle stone and boasting a 200-meter-long façade, is the official residence of the president.

Built on top of an Aztec palace, it was the seat of the Spanish viceroys during the colonial period and has been much altered and enlarged over the years. One of the oldest and finest buildings in the city, it includes such notable features as the Freedom Bell , rung on September 15th, 1810, at the start of the War of Independence (it's rung on the anniversary of this event each year).

The palace boasts many handsome rooms laid out around its 14 courtyards, some accessible to visitors, the most notable being the arcaded Grand Courtyard with its fine frescoes depicting the country's rich history. Don't miss The History of Mexico mural by Diego Rivera, which adorns the grand staircase.

English-language guided tours explore a museum, a number of large halls, and the parliamentary chamber in which the Reform Constitution of 1857 was drawn up (it and the Constitution of 1917 are on display).

Other attractions here are the State Archives , with important historical documents, and the Biblioteca Miguel Lerdo de Tejada , one of the country's largest libraries.

Address: Plaza de la Constitución S/N, Centro, 06066 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Bosque de Chapultepec is Mexico City's principal park, and covering an area of more than four square kilometers, it is also its largest. Once a stronghold of the Toltecs, it was here in AD 1200 that the Aztecs settled, and according to legend, laid out a park in the early 15th century.

Over time, the hill became a summer residence of the Aztec rulers with water from its springs conveyed to the temple precinct in the capital by means of an aqueduct, the remains of which can still be seen in Avenida Chapultepec. Portraits of the Aztec rulers were carved on the slopes of the hill, remnants of which can still be seen.

These days, the park is popular for its lakes, sports facilities, botanic garden, and museums — you'll find both the National History Museum and the National Museum of Anthropology here — along with numerous fun events, including concerts and theatrical performances.

Also of interest is the Museum of Modern Art (Museo de Arte Moderno), which opened in 1964 and is important for its retrospective look at Mexican art before and during the colonial period and its collection of pictures and sculptures by Mexican artists of the 19th and 20th centuries.

The Chapultepec Zoo is also here with a surprising diversity of animals from around the world.

The principal east-west traffic artery of Mexico City, Paseo de la Reforma extends for 15 kilometers from Tlatelolco to the residential district of Las Lomas but is best known for the stretch from Avenida Benito Juárez to Chapultepec Park .

Here, this attractive boulevard widens to 60 meters with a pleasant green strip in the middle containing busts and monuments to numerous national heroes. While now largely known as a busy entertainment and shopping area, this magnificent avenue - laid out during the reign of Emperor Maximilian - is home to a number of important attractions, most notably the massive Independence Monument (Monumento a la Independencia), also known as "El Angel" for the figure of a winged goddess of victory standing atop its tall 36-meter column.

In addition to its fine statues of the heroes of the country's independence movement is the Mausoleum, with its many skulls of some of the country's most important historical figures.

On Sunday mornings, Paseo de la Reforma closes to cars to become a pedestrian and cycle-friendly thoroughfare. It's one of the best things to do for residents of all ages. You may even find a pop-up yoga class happening in the street.

Address: Paseo de la Reforma y Eje 2 PTE, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Another of Mexico City's world-class attractions is the National History Museum (Museo Nacional de Historia). Housed in the 18th-century Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec), on a site once occupied by Aztec buildings and later by a Spanish hermitage, the museum opened in 1944 and is home to an impressive collection of pre-Columbian material and reproductions of old manuscripts, as well as a vast range of exhibits illustrating the history of Mexico since the Spanish conquest.

Highlights include arms and armor, documents, maps, and plans of the Conquest period and its immediate aftermath; ceramics, clothing, jewelry, and coins from three centuries; relics and souvenirs of the struggle for independence and the revolutionary wars; portraits of leading figures in Mexican history; and a number of state carriages, including those used by Benito Juárez and Emperor Maximilian.

Also of interest are the apartments occupied by Maximilian and Charlotte, decorated in neoclassical style and containing furniture brought from Europe. The castle also offers beautiful views over the city.

Address: Castilla de Chapultepec 1a Sección, Mexico City, CDMX, Mexico

Laced with atmospheric cobblestone streets, Coyoacán is one of Mexico City's oldest neighborhoods. Take time to stroll around the maze of laneways here and explore the hidden plazas, colonial-style mansions, and art-filled old churches like San Juan Bautista.

You can also sample exotic fruits and vegetables at the markets. One of the top tourist attractions in the town is the Frida Kahlo Museum in La Casa Azul (The Blue House), where the famous Mexican artist was born and where she frequently returned throughout her life. Here, you can view some of her most important paintings, as well as works by her famous husband, the mural artist Diego Rivera, and personal items from the couple's life. Note that it's best to purchase tickets in advance.

An easy way to see all the highlights of Coyoacán is on the full-day Mexico City Super Saver Tour . This 11-hour excursion begins with a guided tour through the neighborhood, including a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum and North America's oldest university, as well as a boat tour along the canals of the UNESCO-listed ecological reserve, Xochimilco.

While you're in Coyoacan you can also visit the Museo Casa de Leon Trotsky . This is the house where Leon Trotsky, the exiled Russian politician, spent the final years of his life before he was assassinated.

Address: The Frida Kahlo Museum, Londres 247, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Said to have attracted its first pilgrims when it opened in 1531, the Roman Catholic Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe) attracts millions of visitors and worshipers each year, particularly during the Feast Day each December 12th.

Built adjacent to the hill where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared, the site consists of a complex of buildings overlooking a broad public square adorned with a number of interesting modern sculptures, including a large concrete cross with a unique clock and chime.

Highlights include a splendid altarpiece dedicated to Mary in the 16th-century Old Basilica, and the new Basilica de Guadalupe, built in 1976, and notable for its distinctive modern curved appearance.

Address: Plaza de las Américas 1, Villa de Guadalupe, 07050 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Alameda Central, a shady and beautifully kept park with many splendid fountains and sculptures, was laid out in 1592 on the site of a once-busy Aztec market. It remains a bustling location to this day, especially at Christmas, when it is beautifully illuminated and decorated. Next to the park is the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes , which hosts music and theatrical performances as well as important art exhibitions.

Address: Av Hidalgo S/N, Cuauhtémoc, Centro, 06010 Ciudad de México

Another of Mexico City's important historic squares is the Square of the Three Cultures (Plaza de las Tres Culturas). The square occupies the site of the main square of the Pre-Columbian town of Tlatelolco and the scene of the last desperate stand by the Aztecs in 1521 - an event remembered by a memorial tablet.

It takes its name from its interesting mix of buildings from three different periods: Aztec pyramids and temples, a Spanish church, and modern tower blocks. In addition to the principal pyramid, other Aztec remains include a number of smaller pyramids, platforms, staircases, walls, and altars, as well as a "tzompantli," a wall of skulls and fine reliefs of Aztec calendar signs.

The square is also home to a rather sobering memorial museum, Memorial 68, commemorating the tragic murder of some 250 protesting students by government forces in 1968.

Also of note is the Baroque church of Santiago de Tlatelolco , built in the early 17th century on the site of a small chapel from 1535 that belonged to the Franciscan convent of Santiago. Adjoining the church is one of the old convent buildings, formerly the Colegio Imperial de Santa Cruz, in which the Franciscans taught the gifted sons of the Aztec nobility (one of the most notable teachers was Bernardino de Sahagún, the great chronicler of the history of New Spain).

Opposite the picturesque Church of San Francisco is the spectacular House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos). It was originally built in 1596 and boasts a façade decorated by the Conde del Valle de Orizaba 150 years later, with exquisite blue and white tiles from Puebla.

It became even more famous after artist José Clemente Orozco painted murals on the walls of the staircase in 1925. The House of Tiles is now a restaurant and an evocative venue to dine al fresco in the building's spectacular courtyard, surrounded by what is one very large work of art.

Hot Tip : Be sure to check out the large photo marking the spot where Emiliano Zapata and Pancho Villa dined together on arrival in Mexico City.

Address: Av Francisco I. Madero 4, Centro, 06500 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

A short walk from the National Museum of Anthropology is Museo Rufino Tamayo, named after Rufino Tamayo (1900-91), one of Mexico's most famous painters. Notable for its unusual interior, the gallery opened in 1981 and, in addition to Tamayo's artwork it also displays his own extensive collection of several hundred works by contemporary artists, including prints, paintings, sculptures, and wall hangings.

Another important art facility worth visiting is Museo Mural Diego Rivera named after one of the country's leading artists whose most famous painting - Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Park - in which he caricatured some of Mexico's historical figures, is on display here after years of being banned by the state (Rivera had originally called it Dios no existe , or God does not exist ).

Address: Paseo de la Reforma 51, Bosque de Chapultepec, 11580 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

A trip to Mexico City would be incomplete without a visit to the Museo Soumaya . This futuristic, architectural mind-meld was founded by Carlos Slim, one of the wealthiest men in the world, who named it for his deceased wife, Soumaya. Inside is more than 66,000 pieces of art that span 3,000 years, from sculptures from Mesoamerica right up to works from Tintoretto and Salvador Dali.

The non-profit cultural icon originally was housed in the Plaza Loreto of San Angel until 2011. It was moved to a new building in Plaza Carso in Nuevo Polanco, designed by Mexican architect Fernando Romero. The silver, reflective building spans 170,000 square feet of space and is a design feat in itself, pinched at the center like an hourglass, but angular like the hull of a ship.

But the real masterpieces continue inside. The majority of art is from the 15th to 20th centuries, though there is a substantial collection of indigenous Mexican art. Slim is the owner of the world's largest private collection of Auguste Rodin's art, as well, and the museum has the largest collection of casts of his sculptures outside of France.

Address: Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, Granada, Miguel Hidalgo, 11529 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

When it comes to the original "in vogue" destination in Mexico City, Polanco is at the top of the list. This swanky, glitzy, expensive neighborhood has always been about high style, fine dining, and fabulous hotels. Within the neighborhood are countless shops and restaurants, as well as a corner of Chapultepec Park .

If you're looking for one of the most up-scale destinations in Latin America, Polanco certainly takes the lead. The neighborhood's main artery is the Avenida Presidente Masaryk , which is often likened to the 5th Avenue of Mexico City. It's easy to see why when you see art gallery after art gallery, fine dining after fine dining, shopping malls, and gorgeous hotels.

Start at the Antara Fashion Hall , where you'll find all the brand names, from Hugo Boss to Carolina Herrera. You can also visit the Siqueiros Public Art Room, where muralist David Siquieros hosts workshops, talks, conferences, and exhibitions. You can also pop into Chapultepec Park for a lovely little afternoon picnic.

In the evening, snag a reservation at the legendary Pujol restaurant before heading to the Telcel Theatre for a Spanish-language performance of one of the Broadway greats.

Perhaps one of the most culturally and historically significant sites in Mexico City, the archeological zone at Teotihuacan tells so much of the story of the birth of Mexico.

The ancient site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , was settled around 400 BCE and rose to be one of the most powerful cities in the region. It is still a mystery how the city came to be, but several theories exist surrounding earlier tribes that could have contributed to the city's growth. In the 15th century, the Aztecs claimed the city, naming it Teotihuacan.

Today what remains of Teotihuacan's eight square miles are 2,000 single-story apartment compounds, pyramids, temples, and palaces. It is known for its iconic Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon. The Pyramid of the Sun is the largest structure in Teotihuacan and faces west, measuring roughly 720 feet by 760 feet.

Priests at Teotihuacan were known to practice human and animal sacrifice. In fact, archeologists discovered 18 sacrificial victims buried around some of the temples, including the Pyramid of the Moon.

Today visitors can explore Teotihuacan on their own or as part of a tour. The archeological site is just 30 miles outside Mexico City.

Along Madero Street (the street that leads to the Zocalo), you'll find the stunning Church of San Francisco. It's directly across the street from The House of Tiles. This beautiful, historic convent was once at the heart of a sprawling church and monastery complex. Today, all that remains is the church.

Still, what remains is a spectacular site to behold. Just look at the beautifully carved doorway, which dates back to the 18th century. The reddish bricks that you see to the right are stones that were used originally to build the Aztec buildings that once made up Moctezuma's private zoo.

When first constructed, the church was one of the earliest and most powerful Franciscan monasteries in the city. It also held the first 12 Franciscan friars who arrived in what was then "New Spain."

The church that exists today is actually the third to be built here and dates back to the early 18th century. Services are still held today.

Address: Av Francisco I. Madero 7, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

If you're traveling to Mexico City for the first time, the best area to stay is in the historic city center (Centro Histórico de la Ciudad). This UNESCO World Heritage Site centers around the Zócalo, with the Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace, and Templo Mayor.

The affluent Polanco neighborhood, also makes a great base, with its luxury hotels and upscale restaurants. It's about a 30-minute drive from the Centro Histórico, but near all the attractions of Chapultepec Park and the famous shopping street, Paseo de la Reforma. Here are some highly rated hotels in these convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• If you like grand historic hotels, the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico in the Centro Histórico has affordable rates and an unbeatable location, within walking distance of the major historical attractions and with a rooftop terrace overlooking the Zócalo.
• A dazzling stained-glass ceiling caps the elegant lobby. In the quieter Polanco neighborhood, a short stroll from Chapultepec Park, JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City features a full-service spa and outdoor pool.
• Near Polanco and just a short walk to the Chapultepec Castle, the St. Regis overlooks Paseo de la Reforma and occupies a sleek modern building with contemporary decor to match.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A 10-minute walk to Zócalo, near restaurants and shops, the boutique Historico Central , in a beautifully restored 18th-century building, blends history with modern decor and thoughtful added touches such as artisan soaps.
• Also in a historic building is the Hampton Inn & Suites Mexico City - Centro Historico , featuring a gorgeous stained-glass ceiling. It lies within walking distance of the Zócalo, Alameda Cathedral, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes.
• The name says it all when it comes to location at the Zocalo Central , in an elegant building dating from the late 19th century. Some rooms score a bird's-eye view over this famous square.

Budget Hotels:

• Near the Palacio de Bellas Artes, a 20-minute walk from the Centro Histórico, the good-value One Ciudad De Mexico Alameda has clean, compact rooms and free breakfast.
• A few blocks from Paseo de la Reforma, Hotel Bristol is popular for its friendly service and comfortable rooms, while the modern City Express Plus Reforma El Angel is a short cab ride away from the historical center.

Taking an organized tour is the best way to see Mexico City's top attractions and a convenient way to enjoy day trips to surrounding sites. Guided tours save you time navigating the city's traffic-clogged streets, plus you can learn about the history and culture of the city. These sightseeing tours all include expert guides, entrance fees, and round-trip transportation.

• Coyoacán, National University, and Frida Kahlo Museum: Mexico City's art, history, and nature are covered on the full-day Mexico City Super Saver Tour . This 11-hour excursion begins with a tour through the cobblestone streets of the evocative colonial city of Coyoacán, including a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum and National University. Top off your city sightseeing adventure with a relaxing boat tour along the canals of the UNESCO-listed ecological reserve Xochimilco.
• Teotihuacan Pyramids: On the eight-hour Early Morning Teotihuacan Pyramids Tour , you'll be one of the first visitors to gain access to this UNESCO-listed archaeological park. Better still, a private archaeologist guides you through the top sites, including the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl, Sun Pyramid, and Moon Pyramid. After exploring these ancient temples, the tour takes you to an obsidian workshop to see local artisans at work.
• Iztaccihuatl Volcano: Avid hikers can enjoy spectacular views of Popocatepetl and the Valley of Mexico on the Iztaccihuatl Volcano Hiking Tour from Mexico City . This 12-hour tour includes a hike up the intermediate trail of this dormant volcano, stopping short of the 5,230-meter summit to admire the panorama.

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24 Most Beautiful Places in Mexico

From charming small towns to stunning islands, these are the most beautiful places to visit in Mexico.

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Beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, rugged landscapes, and colorful cities galore: Find all this and more in Mexico. While our neighbor to the south is teeming with awe-inspiring locales, narrowing down which are worth a spot on your must-see list can be tricky, especially considering how vast the country is. For this reason, working with someone with in-depth knowledge of the country and its many regions is crucial, says Zachary Rabinor, a T+L A-List Travel Advisor specializing in Mexico and the founder of Journey Mexico . According to the pro, these individuals can offer valuable insights and recommendations based on your interests and preferences, whether that’s searching for the best street food, securing a coveted dinner reservation, or arranging a private driver to take you to and from Mexico’s most iconic attractions.

Ready to start planning your Mexico escape? Travel + Leisure can help: From hidden-gem beaches and mountain towns to world-famous archaeological sites and major metropolises, we’ve rounded up 24 of the most beautiful places in Mexico, according to experts.   

El Pescadero, Baja California Sur

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Rabinor describes El Pescadero as a “hidden gem along the Pacific Coast,” just an hour’s drive from Cabo San Lucas . The small farming community boasts gorgeous swaths of sand — most notably, Cerritos — which, per the pro, are “ideal for surfing and sunbathing.” Rabinor also tells T+L that no trip here is complete without stopping at Barracuda Cantina (conveniently located just steps from Cerritos) to try the Baja fish tacos.

Todos Santos, Baja California Sur

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Just eight miles north of El Pescadero lies the town of Todos Santos , which, according to Rabinor, is renowned for its thriving arts scene and colorful colonial architecture. If that’s not enough to wow you, then the pristine beaches, such as Punta Lobos and Playa La Cachora, definitely will. Rabinor also describes Todos Santos as “a foodie’s paradise” — his personal picks include Docecuarenta   “for some of Baja’s best roasted coffee and freshly baked pastries;” Jazamango , a farm-to-table restaurant led by one of Mexico’s renowned chefs, Javier Plasencia; and “fresh oysters at Oystera .”

Oaxaca City, Oaxaca

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Oaxaca was named the best city in the world in T+L's 2022 World's Best Awards — and it’s easy to see why. What’s more, says Rabinor, this colorful, vibrant city is renowned for its 17th-century architecture, buzzy downtown area, rich Indigenous heritage, and artisan communities. The greenery-filled Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca and the 18th-century Oaxaca Cathedral are also must-visit spots. And, if all of the above weren’t enough to lure you in, then the food and drink scene — famous for its mezcal and moles — certainly will. 

La Paz and Isla Espiritu Santo, Baja California Sur

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According to Rabinor, the capital of Baja California Sur beckons travelers with its “tranquil beaches, Malecón waterfront promenade, and the opportunity to swim with gentle whale sharks.” Plus, says Rabinor, no trip here is complete without a boat ride to the breathtaking Isla Espiritu Santo. A UNESCO World Heritage Site , this small rocky island is known for its secluded beaches and excellent snorkeling and kayaking opportunities — and you may even spot some playful sea lions.

Mexico City, State of Mexico

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According to Rabinor, Mexico’s capital city “seamlessly blends cosmopolitan vibrancy with a rich Indigenous past and history.” He also goes on to describe the cityscape itself as “a fascinating tapestry of old and new — soaring modern skyscrapers stand alongside meticulously preserved colonial architecture.” Must-visit attractions include Templo Mayor,  Palacio de Bellas Artes, Castillo de Chapultepec, and The Pyramids of Teotihuacan (but more on those a bit further down).

Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo

This idyllic island — known for its gorgeous natural surroundings, including powdery white-sand beaches and shallow turquoise waters  —  is about three hours from Cancun . “Holbox exudes a relaxed and laid-back vibe with car-free and unpaved sandy streets, making it the epitome of a barefoot chic vacation,” says Rabinor. The island, part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, is home to abundant marine life and birds, including whale sharks, flamingos, herons, dolphins, and manta rays. For the ultimate adventure, book a bioluminescence kayak tour. 

Merida, Yucatán

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Hope Smith, a travel advisor at Montecito Village Travel , a Virtuoso Agency, tells T+L that some of the richest displays of Mexican culture can be found in Merida , “a city full of wonderful food, beautiful mansions, haciendas, and lush gardens.” Additionally, she says, “You will also find historic Mayan archaeological sites, including Uxmal, La Ruta Puuc, and Chichén Itzá.” For a stay just as eclectic as the city itself, Smith recommends Chablé Yucatán , which she describes as a “five-star experience in a hacienda-style setting.” 

Morelia, Michoacán

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“History enthusiasts will fall in love with Morelia, Michoacán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by lake and mountain views,” says Smith. That’s because it’s chock-full of centuries-old architecture, with the landmark Morelia Cathedral being one of its most famous attractions. Travelers can also carve out an afternoon to explore nearby towns like Pátzcuaro, which, per Smith, is home “to one of the largest plazas in Mexico and great local art shops.”

Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca

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According to Fora travel advisor Natalie Stegman , this under-the-radar Oaxaca beach town is known for its beaches, surfing, and laid-back atmosphere. Here, you’ll find a stretch of sand for every type of traveler, be it bustling Zicatela Beach, which has an abundance of waterfront bars and cafes; the scenic Playa Carrizalillo, where you’ll find golden sand, swaying coconut palms, and turquoise waters; and the tranquil Playa Manzanillo, which, with its calm waters, is perfect for families. And, per Stegman, no trip is complete without taking a detour to nearby Playa del Palmarito, one of the largest turtle nesting beaches along the Mexican Pacific Coast (just note that nesting season takes place between July and January). After a fun-filled day in the sun, rest your head at  Casona Sforza (located directly on the beach) or Hotel Terrestre (where each of the 14 villas has a private pool ). 

San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

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“With its unique blend of Mexican culture and European influences, San Miguel de Allende is a visual masterpiece that will capture your heart,” says Fora travel advisor Elizabeth Kaczka . The city — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — is home to well-preserved buildings adorned with colorful facades and intricate details, which, per Kaczka, “create a picturesque setting.” She also recommends leaving ample time to wander the cobblestone streets, visit the pink-hued Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, and explore the local arts and shopping scenes. And, despite the destination’s charming small-town vibe , it’s teeming with top-rated hotels ranging from the ultra-luxe Rosewood San Miguel De Allende to the boutique Casa Delphine .

Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California Sur

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According to Fora travel advisor Swaylah Faroqi , Valle de Guadalupe is considered the premier wine-producing area of Mexico —  hence why it’s referred to as Mexico’s very own Napa Valley. Per the travel pro, the region has also “gained international recognition for its high-quality wines and stunning landscapes.” Splurge on a stay at the recently opened Montevalle Health & Wellness Resort . This luxury adults-only all-inclusive resort , set on 10 hectares of land dotted with olive trees, lavender plants, and vineyards, offers villa accommodations and state-of-the-art wellness facilities such as a spa, meditation labyrinth, and reflexology path.

Bacalar, Quintana Roo

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The aptly named town of Bacalar is located on Lake Bacalar (sometimes called Bacalar Lagoon) and is known as The Lake (or Lagoon) of Seven Colors for its vibrant shades of blue. “Take a boat ride across the lagoon, visit the cenotes that dot its shores, or simply relax in a hammock while gazing at the mesmerizing hues of the water,” says Kaczka. The destination is home to a handful of unique boutique hotels like Boca de Agua and Habitas Bacalar ; meanwhile, Banyan Tree Vega Bacalar — which will feature a spa designed to resemble a cenote, 35 suites, and an overwater restaurant — is slated to open its doors in 2025.  

Islas Marietas National Park, Nayarit

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Accessible only by boat, Islas Marietas National Park is about one hour from Puerto Vallarta and 15 minutes from Punta Mita. These uninhabited islands are home to abundant marine life, including dolphins, manta rays, and tropical fish galore. As such, they’re especially popular for snorkeling, explains Fora travel advisor Nadia Bess . It’s also here where you’ll find an Instagram-famous hidden beach inside a cave . 

Tepoztlán, Morelos

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“ Situated just a few hours outside of Mexico City, Tepoztlán is similar in feel to San Miguel de Allende but is not as well known,” says Fora travel advisor and co-founder Henley Vazquez . She continues, telling T+L, “It’s designated as a ‘Pueblo Mágico,’ which means it is sacred to Mexican culture.” This charming mountain town is also home to El Tepozteco, an ancient Aztec temple dedicated to Ometochtli-Tepoztēcatl, the god of pulque (an alcoholic beverage), fertility, and drunkenness. 

Sumidero Canyon, Chiapas

The Sumidero Canyon was carved by the Grijalva River and dates back 35 million years.  Here, you’ll find 3,000-foot-tall rock walls, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls. Fora travel advisor Sara Wilcox recommends booking a scenic boat tour for the best views of the canyon. And, if you’re lucky, you may spot majestic wildlife like spider monkeys, crocodiles, jaguars, and snakes. 

Las Coloradas, Yucatán

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Located on the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula — about 3.5 hours from Tulum and the Riviera Maya — Las Coloradas is an Instagram dream come true with its pink-hued waters. (According to Wilcox, this is due to a high concentration of red-colored algae and shrimp.) ”The beautiful pink tones continue thanks to a large population of flamingos, which are attracted to the salt ponds,” says the travel advisor. 

Cabo Pulmo, Baja California Sur

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“Home to one of the most diverse coral reefs in North America, this National Marine Park is truly spectacular,” says Fora travel advisor Amy Shamus of Cabo Pulmo. In addition to pristine beaches, the UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a coral reef-filled shallow bay that hundreds of marine species call home, including but not limited to sea turtles, humpback whales, manta rays, and whale sharks. With all this in mind, it’s no surprise that diving, snorkeling, and swimming are so popular here.

Suytun Cenote, Yucatán

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Cenotes are natural swimming holes that are considered sacred by the Maya. And, while the Yucatán Peninsula boasts several thousand cenotes — each of which is nothing short of awe-inspiring — Suytun Cenote is amongst the most picture-perfect with its circular platform, which makes the perfect setting for your photo. Post-picture, enjoy a refreshing soak in the crystalline waters and take a moment to bask in the subterranean surroundings, with fascinating stalactites and stalagmites from nearly every angle.

Hierve El Agua, Oaxaca

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Whether you choose to hike, swim, or just sit back and admire the natural formations, a trip to Hierve El Agua is truly one for the books. “This absolutely gorgeous historical and natural site is roughly an hour outside of Oaxaca and features travertine rock formations, a petrified waterfall, and multiple natural warm pools, all overlooking jaw-dropping views of the valley below,” says Bess. If you don’t mind waking up early, the travel pro recommends arriving here “just before sunrise” so that you can soak up the gorgeous views and have the place “(almost) all to yourself!” 

Teotihuacan Pyramids, State of Mexico

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These ancient pyramids, which are thought to date back to 100 B.C.E., are just one hour from bustling Mexico City. Its main attraction, the Pyramid of the Sun, clocks in at over 215 feet tall. According to Bess, those who truly want to appreciate the pyramids’ vast size and beauty should take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over them. 

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

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“ Nestled along the Caribbean Sea, Playa del Carmen is a tropical paradise that entices visitors with its turquoise waters and powdery white-sand beaches,” says Kaczka. Beyond the beaches, travelers can choose from an array of activities, be it swimming in cenotes, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or dancing the night away in one of the clubs that line Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue, Playa del Carmen’s main strip). The town also boasts an abundance of hotels and resorts , which include some of Mexico’s best all-inclusive resorts . 

Guanajuato, Guanajuato

As the capital of the eponymous Mexican State, Guanajuato —  a UNESCO World Heritage Site — attracts travelers with its breathtaking architecture and art. You can easily spend hours wandering the quaint cobblestone alleys adorned with vibrant buildings and ornate plazas. Some of Kaczka’s must-dos: Explore the famous Callejón del Beso (Alley of the Kiss), visit the majestic Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city's numerous festivals.”

Chichén Itzá, Yucatán

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Chichén Itzá is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Mexico, and best of all, it’s an easy day trip from Cancun . These ancient Mayan ruins span about four square miles, and the massive El Castillo (also known as the Temple of Kukulcan), which towers over the other monuments at 78 feet, is arguably the most famous of the bunch. The Great Ballcourt features intricate stone carvings, as does the Temple of the Warriors. Don’t miss the Wall of Skulls, where you’ll find hundreds of, yes, stone skull carvings.  

Copper Canyon, Chihuahua

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Also known as the Grand Canyon of Mexico, Copper Canyon is comprised of not one but six separate canyons. This natural wonder, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompasses over 25,000 square miles in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range. While many choose to experience Copper Canyon and its postcard-worthy surroundings on foot or horseback, those aren’t the only options. Instead, says Kaczka,  “Hop aboard the Chihuahua al Pacífico railway, also known as the Copper Canyon Train, for a scenic journey through rugged landscapes, towering cliffs, and picturesque villages.”

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The 27 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

By Scarlett Lindeman

Mexico City is changing rapidly from the influx of foreigners who have recently discovered the city’s infinite charms. There are dozens of new restaurants, parties, and projects that keep the vibrancy of this capital city (with a population of over 22 million) surging while the storied museums, ancient bars, and cultural sites maintain their standing. An intoxicating mix of ancient and new, you could spend a lifetime here and barely scratch the surface. While there's no way you’ll manage to cover all of the must see and dos in one trip, sticking to one neighborhood a day keeps things manageable. No matter how you end up spending your time in Mexico's capital, one thing is for sure—you’ll be scheduling your second trip before your first is even finished.

Read our complete Mexico City travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Colonia Juárez Arrow

The Juarez neighborhood has evolved in recent years. Once gritty, the area is now teeming with great boutiques, bars, parks, and restaurants like Masala y Maiz, which blends Mexican and Indian cuisines, and Niddo, a sunny corner spot that serves a divine brunch. There are loads of hotspots around the leafy central Plaza Washington: La Rifa for artisanal chocolates, Loose Blues for vinyls and vintage denim, and Elly's for natural wines and handmade pastas.

Luis Barragán House and Studio Arrow

The former home and studio of Pritzker-Prize-winning architect Luis Barragán has been transformed into a museum in Mexico City's Hidalgo District. Architecture and design lovers frequent the estate to study the artist's ingenious use of color, light, shadow, form, and texture. From the street, you'd never guess the personality that lies inside: The stark-gray façade humbly blends in with neighboring homes, but walk to the interior of the estate and you'll find striking walls in a kaleidoscope of bright colors, fountains, and pools.

Gran Hotel Ciudad de México Arrow

Even if you're not staying at this hotel on the Zócalo, it's worth stopping just to see the jaw-dropping interior. The building originally opened as a department store in 1899. Since then, its art nouveau bones have been carefully maintained: The curving staircase is a replica of the one at Paris's Le Bon Marché , and the antique elevator, made of iron and concrete, was the first of its kind in Mexico City. But the pièce de résistance is the incredible Tiffany stained-glass ceiling, imported from France in 1908.

El Moro Churerría Arrow

Early evening is churro time in Mexico City—families, couples, and friends all go out for a taste of sweet fried dough and chocolate. You'll often find lines snaking around the block outside this beloved churrería (churro shop). There are shops in Roma, Centro Historico, Condesa, Polanco, and Cuauhtémoc.   Most have spiffy interiors with blue and white tile, bright lighting, and long communal tables. Watch the cooks dip, fry, and sugar-coat your long, spindly churro, which is paired with hot chocolate in a flavor of your choosing.

Hannah Towey

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Steph Koyfman

Floating Gardens of Xochimilco Arrow

Drive 40 minutes south of the city and you'll witness the closest approximation to the Valley of Mexico (in which Mexico City lies) before the arrival of the Spanish. The World Heritage Site of Xochimilco, the extensive lake and canal system that once connected most of the settlements in the valley, is an incredible vestige of the area's pre-Hispanic past. Start at the Embarcadero Belem dock to board a colorful gondola -like boat, called a trajinera , and explore the waterways and artificial islands or chinampas .

Palacio Nacional Arrow

Diego Rivera's famous mural The History of Mexico, showcases the Aztec era to the conquest to the Revolution to the development of industry. It's grandiose and captivating, a unique opportunity to learn about Mexico's past. Not to mention it's free: The mural is housed in a distinguished building east of the Zócalo that operates as a government office. Among the office workers milling about, you'll see a mix of local, national, and international tourists who come to be awe-stricken by Rivera’s masterpiece.

Templo Mayor Arrow

Templo Mayor (translation: main temple) was the centerpiece of Tenochtitlán, the ancient Aztec capital, constructed in 1325 in the marshes of Lake Texcoco. The temple was mowed over and replaced by a cathedral during the Spanish conquest in 1521. Today, the hulking stone ruins lie at the heart of Centro Histórico, embedded in the blueprint of downtown. Surrounded by streets and buildings, it is hard to imagine the temples in their original Aztecan glory, but the nicely organized museum helps paint the full picture.

Museo Frida Kahlo Arrow

The museum, also known as "Casa Azul" for its shocking cobalt blue exterior, is where Frida Kahlo was born, raised, lived, and died. Visitors can take in a few paintings by Kahlo and her husband, Diego Rivera, in addition to other contemporary artists of their era. But perhaps more interesting is the voyeuristic window into their creative world. The home is carefully preserved and maintained; it's easy to image the spaces as they were during Kahlo's time. In addition to their personal effects and domestic materials, the collection of clothes and corsets Frida needed to support her body after her traumatic accident give an intimate look at the artist's daily struggles.

Sculpture Garden at the Museo Universitario Arte Contemporáneo Arrow

Located on the outskirts of Mexico City proper, at the National Autonomous University of Mexico campus, the Sculpture Park is totally off the tourist track. Featuring a range of grand outdoor sculptures, the park is best explored by foot. The sculpture space, which looks like a giant crater, is one the top things to spot. It's built around lava (which can be seen in the center) and has wonderful views from the ledge.

Mercado Jamaica Arrow

The city’s principal flower market offers visitors a fragrant, colorful walk through much of the region’s native flora and fauna, available to be bundled into a bouquet and taken back to your home. Available for your admiration are roses, lilies, daisies, ferns, and violets galore, among other rare and special species. Visit during Dia de Muertos to see trucks carting in pink and orange cempasuchil , or Mexican marigolds, for family members to buy to decorate their ofrendas at home or their loved ones’ graves. Build a bundle to decorate your hotel room with—or better yet, to dry and frame as a memory for when you return home.

Monumento a la Revolución Arrow

This landmark, located in the heart of Mexico City, commemorates the Mexican Revolution and is the largest triumphal arch in the world. The main structure evolved over twenty-five years of stops and starts and a major redesign. It was finished in 1938, to comprise an eclectic blend of art-deco and Mexican socialist realism styles. A visit to the top observation deck only costs 110 pesos ($5) and there's a museum underground. You don't need much time to witness the glory of the monument. Saunter around, gawk at the creative architectural stylings of the structure, and walk under the arches. History nerds may be more interested in the small museum below, but more than anything it's an architecturally significant piece, and the observation deck has great views. If you keep your eyes peeled while exploring around town, you'll most likely catch a glimpse of the monument down a main street—but a quick glimpse isn't enough, and it's worth the quick 15-minute trip to walk underneath it.

Omusubi House Arrow

In a small storefront in Roma Norte, the husband and wife team, Ichiro Kitazawa and Varia Gonzáles Manuel work side-by-side in the miniscule kitchen, cupping steamed rice into palm-sized balls. They will sink sauteed sweet potato into the omusubi which are speckled like confetti with purple and wild rice, a marriage of Mexican ingredients and Japanese technique. They met while working at a Japanese restaurant years back when Mexico City was still called DF, the federal district. He had arrived ten years earlier by way of Osaka, as a hippy backpacker intent on photographing Latin America but fell into cooking; and she, from Puebla. “Omusubi translates to tying up or to bring together” Kitazawa explains, “which is how we wrap the rice”—and a sound metaphor for the forging of connections between their two countries.

Cárcamo de Dolores Arrow

Second or third-time visitors to Mexico City who think they've seen everything will find something new here. This historic but infrequently-visited site was constructed in 1951 as a hydraulic water system connected to the city's main water lines. And while it no longer acts as a municipal water work but rather a museum and cultural landmark, it underscores the city's complicated relationship with water. In the lesser-traveled section of Chapultepec, it is currently under renovation and closed to the public, though the massive Rivera sculpture of the Azteca water god Tlaloc out front can still be admired.

Eat Like a Local Arrow

Eat Like a Local, a Mexico City–based company, runs culinary tours that immerse visitors in the city's vast food scene. Rocio, the guide, has long been a food blogger , and her knowledge about the Mexico City's food scene is totally on point. She's also passionate about connecting tourists with locals, and impacting Mexico City in a positive, sustainable way. There's a set itinerary, but she's flexible—so go on, order another mezcal or pork carnitas, if you like.

Museo Jumex Arrow

Museo Jumex houses one of Latin America's largest private contemporary art collections, which includes works by Andy Warhol, Martin Kippenberger, Cy Twombly, and Damien Hirst. Mediums range from paintings and drawings to light and video installations. The building is as distinctive as the art: British architect David Chipperfield designed the 15,000 square-foot white-concrete cube with a sawtooth top. (Plus the Soumaya Museum is just across the square, so you can feed two birds with one scone.) 

Self-Guided Centro Historico Cantina Crawl Arrow

It's easy to pop around in Centro, hitting up a few cantinas to have a drink or two and to soak up the style of these classic, dive-y spots. The more friends you bring and make, the better. Locals and regulars alike hit the cantinas, which maintain a storied baseline for the drinking culture of Mexico City. Musicians pass through, sorrows are drowned, and gains celebrated. Many cantinas serve food, some better than others, and will often gift snacks and small plates if you consume around three drinks, though each spot has its own rules. Beer and tequila prevail. Simple cocktails, built-in-the-glass rum and cokes, margaritas, sangria, rum, brandy, and mezcal. Some cantinas are known for certain drinks, but craft cocktails this is not.

Lucha Libre at the Arena Coliseo Arrow

A giant venue that hosts sporting and entertainment events, the Arena seats as many as 23,300 spectators. It's best known for hosting Lucha Libre wrestling matches. The stadium is sprawling, and some seats are certainly better than others, depending on how much money you're willing to fork out. If you're here because you're a true Lucha Libre fan, make sure to sit in the front row; if you're here to have a fun night out with friends, the cheap seats will do just fine.

Teotihuacán Arrow

The ancient Mesoamerican pyramids of Teotihuacán, in the Valley of Mexico, once served as the largest city in the pre-Columbian Americas. It is thought that during the first millennium A.D. the city had around 125,000 people, including multi-ethnic groups such as the Otomi, Zapotec, Mixtec, Maya, and Nahua. If you have a few days in Mexico City, it's worth the day trip . (Teotihuacán is about an hour outside the city by car.) Leave early in the morning so you can be back in the city by mid-day—and bring sunscreen!

The Centro Zocalo Historico Bodealores   Arrow

The boleadores are dotted around the perimeter of downtown's main square (and almost every other park and plaza in the city) but you'll have a great view of the cathedrals, flagpole, and Palacio Nacional if you get your shoes shined here. Climb up on the elevated perch of the boleador's chair and they will make your boots shine anew. At 50 to 100 pesos ($3 to $6), it's one of the cheapest shoe-shine experiences around. Boleadores are an important part of Mexican street culture and a fixture of pedestrian avenues, a living-breathing mid-century heritage that is not in danger of dying out. But with the proliferation of cheap plastic shoes and mass-market tennis sneakers, "limpiabotes" are a hand-crafted service for giving leather shoes a new life.

Museo Anahuacalli Arrow

Awesome, grand, and out-of-the-way, Anahuacalli is part studio, part museum, and part shrine for Mexican art that Diego Rivera built as an architectural piece uniting past, present, and future to the natural environment. Rivera's personal and expansive collection of pre-Hispanic figurines, carvings, and totems accumulated over a lifetime. The museum itself was constructed around a swath of rocky terrain Rivera and Khalo had purchased for a farm. The main collection features nearly two thousand figurines representing Olmecs, Toltecs, Nahuas, Zapotecs, the people of Teotihuacan, and those of northeastern Mexico as well as Rivera's sketches for murals. There are also temporary exhibits of more modern Mexican artists, with a recent rotation of 30 textural works by Robert Janitz—paintings, large-format sculptures, and an NFT.

Patrick Miller Arrow

From the outside, this dance club looks like dumpy warehouse hidden behind a black gate in Roma Norte. But come on a Friday (the only day it's open), and you'll find a raging party that offers a glimpse of the city's extant disco subculture. An eclectic mix of party-goers show off their moves in dance circles to all kinds of music, from '80s and '90s classics to sub-genres of disco, such as Hi-NRG, Italo, and electro.

Museo Nacional de Antropología Arrow

This massive building in Chapultepec Park is among the city's most famed museums, second only to perhaps the Museo Frida Kahlo . Though the late Mexican architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez designed it in 1964, the mammoth building still looks as avant-garde today as it did then. (How exactly does that giant concrete slab float above a pond?) The museum holds the world's largest collection of ancient Mexican artifacts. Some of the most iconic Mesoamerican artifacts discovered to date can be found across 23 rooms. If you want to understand Mexico's history, then a visit here is a must.

Plaza Garibaldi Arrow

Mexico's roving mariachi bands have been found in this plaza, a few blocks north of the Palacio de Bellas Artes , since the mid-1900s. Though the plaza has deteriorated over the years, it's seen a resurgence thanks to a city-driven effort to clean up the neighborhood by installing new sidewalks and street lamps. It's a cultural meeting point of sorts, where travelers can come day or night (though the best time to go is after 11 p.m.), to watch bands solicit bar patrons, cars, and passersby to buy a song .

Torre Latinoamericana Arrow

This 44-story skyscraper, built in 1965, is the tallest building in Centro Histórico . The tower miraculously withstood both the 8.1-magnitude earthquake of 1985 and the 7.1-magnitude quake of September 2017, making it a rare feat of engineering. The Torre defines Mexico City's skyline (much like the Empire State building in New York) and is a useful tool for orienting oneself in downtown. Head to the top-floor observation deck for jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the city, or to the newly renovated bar/restaurant (one floor below), which has equally impressive views and is almost always empty.

Salón San Luis Arrow

The dance floor at this old-school salon, cloaked in red light, comes alive as locals, tourists, and old timers twirl and shuffle to a live band . Try your hand at salsa, merengue, cumbia, and norteña numbers as waiters in crisp whites with black bow ties circle the room serving liquid courage. There's no shame in bad dancing, so try and learn the steps. (The pros might even show you a thing or two.)

Iglesia San Ignacio de Loyola Arrow

A surprisingly tranquil stop in a high-energy city, this infrequently-visited modernist church is tucked away in plain sight in residential Polanco. Designed by famed architect Juan Sordo, it was completed in 1961 and features a sharp triangular structure covered in handmade yellow ceramic tiles. Show up during visiting hours and you can tour the grounds inside and out. Indoors, the Jesuit temple is encased by multi-colored stained glass windows that catch vibrant fractals on sunny days, with an effect almost like being trapped in a kaleidoscope. It's a place of worship and quiet contemplation, yes, but also a haven for architecture nerds.

La Rifa Chocolateria Arrow

Indigenous to Mexico, cacao has been consumed in the country and played an important role in Mesoamerican societies since 19th BCE; La Rifa continues the tradition with a small roaster on-site. There are a handful of tables sprinkled in the tree-shaded plaza out front, optimal perches for spending an hour or two. Ask to see their production in the back and they will most likely give a tour. The main event is sipping chocolates—water-based and closest to how cacao was consumed, pre-Columbian, before the introduction of the Spanish (and thus cows and milk). The front-of-house folks are happy to explain the finer nuances of their roasting process, flavor-profiles, and history of Mexican chocolate.

Ahuehuete Arrow

This six-seat collection room is a distillate library, a stunning space housed in a centuries-old building in one of Mexico City’s oldest neighborhood. The Porfirio Díaz-era bar and backbar were found in a Puebla antique store and are over 100 years old (once you book here , you'll be notified of the exact location) It'll cost you $75 per-person for a six-spirit sampling, light snacks, and water. Inside, there are only six seats and a knowledgable barkeep/tour guide crafting a rich journey for you and your fellow spirit geeks. While tequila and mezcal are some of Mexico's greatest exports, there are dozens of other plant-based spirits like bacanora, sotol, raicilla, and charanda, distilled in micro-batch quantities in rural communities that never make it into commerical circulation—nor are they intended to. The team behind Ahuehuete has been collecting bottles throughout the years, traveling to rural villages to find interesting batches for their private collection.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Mexico City

Posted by Guest Blogger | Updated on Apr 17, 2024 | Published on Jan 17, 2024 | Mexico | 0

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.

Guest Post by Soumya Gayatri

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Mexico City, you’re in the right place.

With its rich and storied history, Mexico City is home to many iconic landmarks and well-known monuments. 

From the magnificent Metropolitan Cathedral in the Historic Center to the famous Frida Kahlo Museum in the quaint neighborhood of Coyoacan, the list of exciting places in Mexico City is endless. 

In this ultimate CDMX bucket list, we delve into the ten best places to visit in Mexico City. 

Centro Historico

One of the top places to visit in Mexico City is its historic center, Centro Historico. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Historic Center of Mexico City was built on the top of the ancient Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, by Spanish conquerors who took over Mexico in the 16th century.

Today, the Historic Center is home to the ruins of the Aztec temple called the Templo Mayor and several beautiful colonial buildings such as the Mexico City National Palace , the Palace of Fine Arts, and the Postal Palace. 

You’ll also find the largest cathedral in North America here. It is called the Metropolitan Cathedral. 

At the center is Mexico City’s main public square, the Zocalo, which is the perfect place for people-watching. Mexico City’s famous Day of the Dead celebrations are also held at the Zocalo.

Best things to do in the Historic Center of Mexico City

• Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral for its churrigueresque-style altars with elaborate ornamentation and decorative detailing. 
• Join a guided tour of Mexico City National Palace and see some of Diego Rivera’s best murals. The massive “History of Mexico” mural, depicting Mexico’s ancient, colonial, and modern histories is a highlight.
• Explore the ruins of Tenochtitlan and see what remains of Templo Mayor, the main Aztec temple.
• Head to Palacio Bellas Artes or the Palace of Fine Arts for more murals by the Mexican mural masters, including Diego Rivera. Watch a folkloric ballet for a deep dive into Mexican culture.
• Climb up to the observation deck of Torre Latino Americana for splendid views of the historic center and beyond.

The best way to explore the treasures of the historic center is on a Mexico City walking tour , where a knowledgeable guide gives rich insights into the history of the city and its important landmarks.

Coyoacan is a quaint Mexico City borough known for its association with the famous Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. 

Frida Kahlo was born in Coyoacan and lived and died here. Casa Azul, the blue-colored house of Frida Kahlo, is now a museum where you can find her paintings, personal memorabilia, and photographs.

Frida Kahlo Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico City. It is so popular that tickets get sold out weeks in advance. Be sure to book your Frida Kahlo tickets well ahead of time.

Other attractions in Coyoacan include the Leon Trotsky Museum, the Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum, and the Rivera and Kahlo Studio House. 

The San Juan Bautista Church, with its ornate gilded interior, is not to be missed either.

Be sure to spend some time at the Fountain of Coyotes, from which Coyoacan gets its name.

Travelers often combine Coyoacan with Xochimilco on full-day tours like this one . 

A better idea is to combine Coyoacan with the lesser-known neighborhood of San Angel, where you can visit a lively artisan market every Saturday. Called Bazar Sabado, this local market is the best place to shop for Mexican crafts, textiles, handmade ceramics and jewelry, and paintings by local artists.

San Angel is also home to the 17 th -century El Carmen Monastery, which has a museum of religious art and twelve mummies from the 1600s. 

Teotihuacan Pyramids

One of the most fascinating places to visit near Mexico City is the Archeological Site of Teotihuacan. 

Located just 30 miles north of Mexico City (about an hour's drive), Teotihuacan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to three massive pyramids almost 2,000 years old. They are called the pyramids of the Sun, the Moon, and the Feathered Serpent.

Best things to do at Teotihuacan

• Marvel at the pyramids of the Sun, the Moon, and the Feathered Serpent aligned along a north-south axis called the Avenue of the Dead. The pyramids are no longer open to climbing but you can appreciate their sheer size and history.
• Discover murals painted by the ancient people of Teotihuacan thousands of years ago at the Palace of Butterflies, Tepantitla Architectural Complex, and the Beatriz Fuente Mural Museum. 
• Ride a hot air balloon to get the most stunning views of the ancient city from above.

It is easy to get to Teotihuacan from Mexico City by public transport. Board a Teotihuacan Autobus from the Norte Terminal in Mexico City and get to Teotihuacan in an hour. 

You can also rent a car and drive (beware, Mexico City traffic is notoriously slow!) or book a guided tour with hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Floating Gardens of Xochimilco

Mexico City is full of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the most unique ones is the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco.

Located on the southern borders of Mexico City, the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco are a group of artificial islands created by the Aztecs in the 14th century. They are still used to grow crops, and rear animals like the Aztecs did 700 years ago.

Xochimilco’s Floating Gardens are also a popular tourist attraction today. 

Visitors can ride on brightly colored gondolas called trajineras and explore the canals of Xochimilco. 

Trajinera tours usually include food, drinks, dance, and music, making Xochimilco a fun day trip from Mexico City. 

El Angel Monument

If you’re looking for the most iconic Mexico City attractions, visit the monument of El Angel or the Angel of Independence.

Located in downtown Mexico City, the Angel symbolizes Mexico’s War of Independence and its victory over Spain. 

The Angel is a 120-foot-tall column topped by a bright golden statue of Nike. The mortal remains of many Mexican revolutionaries, including those of Father Hidalgo , are buried under the monument. 

El Angel stands right in the middle of the busy Paseo de la Reforma and is one of the most photographed attractions in Mexico City. 

Roma and Condesa

Roma and Condesa are two of Mexico City’s coolest neighborhoods, with cute restaurants, artsy cafes, and trendy boutiques. Tree-lined streets and old art nouveau buildings further add to the charm.

Over time, both Roma and Condesa have come to house artists from all over the world.

Therefore, you’ll find a lot of original street art as well as modern art galleries in these neighborhoods.

Best things to do in Roma and Condesa:

• Stroll in Parque Mexico, a lush green park full of exotic flora and fauna, ponds and fountains, interesting sculptures, and long winding trails.
• Head to Mercado Roma and sample authentic Mexican cuisine from the local food stalls.
• Visit chic art galleries like Galeria OMR and Arto Otra and shop for artsy Mexican souvenirs. Or join a walking tour to explore the eclectic street art of Roma and Condesa.
• Try vegan tacos at Por Siempre Vegana in Roma Norte, one of the best places for vegan Mexican fare.

Chapultepec Park and Castle

Next up on this list of best places to visit in Mexico City are the iconic Chapultepec Park and Chapultepec Castle. 

Often referred to as the lungs of Mexico City, Chapultepec Park is a large urban park in the heart of the city. 

Apart from charming walking trails and a beautiful lake, the park has many more attractions, including museums, a zoo, Chapultepec Castle, the Ninos Heroes Monument, and several local restaurants. 

The National Museum of Anthropology, one of Mexico City’s most famous museums, is located within Chapultepec Park. It is the best place to learn about the pre-Hispanic civilizations of Mexico, including the Mayans, Aztecs, and Olmecs. 

Other notable museums inside Chapultepec Park are the Museum of Modern Art, Rufino Tamayo Contemporary Art Museum, and Papalote Children’s Museum. 

On the top of a small hill in Chapultepec Park, you will find the Chapultepec Castle, the only royal castle in the Americas. 

The castle is home to the National Museum of History, where you can delve into Mexico’s rich history. You can also tour the lavishly decorated staterooms and check out beautiful stained-glass windows inside the castle.

The castle is also the best place to get panoramic views of Chapultepec Park and the Mexico City skyline.

Chapultepec Park is so huge and full of attractions that you can easily spend an entire day here without running out of things to do.

Polanco is one of Mexico City’s most upscale neighborhoods and is home to high-end restaurants, luxury boutiques, expensive hotels, and classy galleries and museums. 

Polanco has not one but two Michelin-starred restaurants – Pujol and Quintonil. Whether you choose to eat at one of these or a streetside taco stall, you won’t be disappointed. The food in Polanco is delicious everywhere.

Shop at the posh Antara Fashion Hall or take a walk in Parque Lincoln. Everything in Polanco is classy and dripping with swank.

The highlight, however, is the privately-owned Soumaya Museum, which has one of the largest collections of art in all of North America. From masterpieces of European old masters to modern 20th-century Mexican art pieces, the museum has over 60,000 pieces of art open for public viewing free of charge.

Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, or UNAM, is not only an educational institution but also a popular place to visit in Mexico City.

The Central University Campus of UNAM is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it presents a rare example of 20th-century modernist architecture.

The University Library is a fascinating building with its entire façade adorned by a stunning mosaic by Juan O’Gorman. The mosaic depicts different stages in the history of Mexico, starting with the pre-Hispanic civilizations, the colonists, and modern Mexican people. 

If you’re an art enthusiast, visit the University Museum of Contemporary Art (MUAC), which features some of the most innovative and unconventional art creations.

UNAM is located about 10 miles south of the Historic Center of Mexico City. Therefore, travelers often visit UNAM on a full-day tour with Xochimilco Floating Gardens and Frida Kahlo Museum.

Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of Latin America’s most visited religious sites. 

Located only 30 minutes from the Mexico City center, the Basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is known to house a famous cloak that has the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

The impressive architecture of the Basilica is another draw. The old and the new basilicas stand side by side, representing Mexico’s rich architectural history. 

Millions of pilgrims visit the Basilica every year. The crowds are enormous on the 12th of December, the Day of Saint Mary of Guadalupe.

You can easily combine the Basilica with a full-day tour of the Teotihuacan pyramids and the Tlatelolco Archeological Site.

Tips for visiting Mexico City Attractions

• Many Mexico City attractions are closed on Mondays. If you’re in Mexico City on a Monday, indulge in a day trip to Teotihuacan or Xochimilco.
• Mexico City is one of the largest cities in the world and is home to over 22 million people. Therefore, traffic can get terrible sometimes. Use the metro and Metrobus to get to your destination on time. Getting a Metro Card is extremely helpful.
• The best time to visit Mexico City is in the spring months of March–May. The weather is cooler and drier than in summer, making it perfect to explore outdoors. Jacarandas are also in full bloom during this time, making the areas around Paseo de la Reforma, Centro Historico, and Chapultepec Park even prettier. October-November is also a good time if you plan to attend Day of the Dead festivities.
• Frida Kahlo Museum is extremely popular among tourists. Therefore, tickets sell out fast. Book your Frida Kahlo tickets at least a week in advance.

If you’re looking for more amazing things to do in Mexico City and nearby, head to the beautiful colonial towns of San Miguel de Allende and Puebla, and immerse yourself in the rich Mexican heritage and culture.

About the Author Soumya is a history and culture enthusiast who helps her readers plan immersive cultural trips through her travel blog, Stories by Soumya . Her writings about travel and culture have been published in BBC Travel, Architectural Digest, National Herald, and many more. Mexico City is one of her favorite places in the world, and she keeps coming back here for the history, the culture, and the food.

Check out these related posts:

• Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos
• Best Things to Do in Bacalar
• Best Things to Do in Mazatlan
• Amazing Things to Do in Oaxaca

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Best places to visit in mexico for 2023-2024.

With year-round warm weather and diverse destinations ranging from metropolitan Mexico City to the sands of Tulum, Mexico boasts vacation spots that appeal to all sorts of visitors. To help you determine which locale is best for you, U.S. News compiled this list of the best places to visit in Mexico by factoring in cultural attractions, food options, beaches, water-based activities and nightlife, along with traveler votes and expert opinions. Vote for your favorite vacation spots below to help us determine next year's ranking. (Note: The U.S. Department of State advises against traveling to certain Mexican states due to crime; check the  website  for updates before booking your trip, and be cautious if you decide to travel.)

Zihuatanejo

Isla mujeres, isla holbox, mexico city, playa del carmen.

Located on Mexico's Pacific coast, Zihuatanejo offers travelers an authentic Mexico experience full of brilliant sunsets and laid-back vibes. In this fishing village, shopaholics can buy local handicrafts (think: ceramics and woodcarvings), and foodies can savor fresh fish tacos and ceviche along the beach. The city's Playa La Ropa serves as the main beach and stands out because of its clean, family-friendly atmosphere. Playa Larga, another excellent beach option, is set slightly outside of town, so it offers a quieter atmosphere and plenty of room to sprawl out. Just off the coast, divers and snorkelers can pick from several dive sites brimming with marine life.

Home to Mexico's most famous waterfront Mayan ruins, Tulum appeals to history buffs and water lovers alike. Positioned along a coastal stretch of the Riviera Maya, about 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen, Tulum offers some of the best hotels in Mexico , ranging from small boutique hotels to wellness retreats to all-inclusive resorts. Regardless of where you stay, you can spend time lounging on some of the world's most beautiful beaches (try traveler-approved Playa Paraíso or Playa Ruinas), exploring ancient ruins (consider booking a daytrip to nearby Chichén Itzá for a larger-scale site) and swimming in secluded cenotes, unique underwater caves located around the Yucatán Peninsula.

This island is probably best known for two things: coral reefs and cruise ships. Travelers love this destination's brilliant blue water and laid-back beaches, plus its abundance of water sports activities. Numerous outfitters and resorts offer kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling gear. While you could spend every minute in the water or on the beach with a good book, Cozumel is also a quiet place to learn about Mayan culture. Visit the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio archaeological site for a dose of pre-Hispanic history.

Ixtapa's curved coastline is packed with hotels, restaurants and nightlife, giving the Pacific coast city (located just north of Zihuatanejo) a bustling vibe. Playa El Palmar, the main beach, often proves better for sunset strolls and people-watching than swimming or snorkeling due to the strong waves. Still, warm, clear and generally gentle water and coral beds farther offshore make Ixtapa one of the best places for beginner scuba enthusiasts. Anyone interested in the area's history should also explore the Archaeological Museum of the Costa Grande, a small museum that details the various cultures and events that make the region unique. 

A great option for a weekend stay or a quick daytrip tour , Isla Mujeres is set off the coast of Cancún and offers beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and coral reefs ready for exploration. In fact, it's one of the best places to go snorkeling in the world thanks to a unique underwater museum and one of the world's largest coral reefs (home to all sorts of colorful fish). See marine life from another perspective on a glass bottom boat. When you want to catch some rays, Playa Norte is the most popular beach, framed by white sand, turquoise water and swaying palm trees.

Quiet beaches, a relaxed atmosphere and stunning crystal-clear water are some of Isla Holbox's standout attributes. This up-and-coming slice of paradise is perfect for travelers looking to truly get away from it all, thanks to its car-free, off-the-beaten-path location. Isla Holbox is situated off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula and only 26 miles long. Expect quaint boutique hotels, stretches of white sand beaches (Playa Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito are two top spots), opportunities for snorkeling and sailing, and more than 100 species of birds, including vibrantly colored flamingoes.

About 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a small beach town known for awesome surfing conditions and scenic stretches of sand. If you've never surfed before, sign up for a lesson from a local to learn. Visitors can also go whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, horseback riding or zip lining, or hop on a relaxing boat tour. After a day of fun in the sun, head into town to check out the local art galleries and grab a bite to eat at one of the tasty restaurants (Sayulita is a burgeoning foodie destination), which feature everything from cheap eats to fine dining.

Anglers recognize Manzanillo as a world-class deep-sea fishing destination for anyone searching for sailfish and marlin, but many types of travelers will enjoy a trip to this Pacific coast destination, located 170 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. The city's two bays mean there is no shortage of beaches for visitors to swim and sunbathe on: Top spots include Playa la Audiencia and Playa Salagua. Water sports like snorkeling and kayaking are also popular activities to enjoy here. If you have time, visit the small town of Barra de Navidad (about 30 miles northwest) for charming hotels, restaurants and stores along the beach. 

Dreamy white sand , nightclubs, all-inclusive resorts and inexpensive flights from the U.S. make Cancún a go-to spot for spring breakers and vacationers seeking an easy beach getaway. But this city on the Yucatán Peninsula also sits close to lush jungles and tranquil cenotes, making it an excellent option for nature lovers. Not to mention, travelers will find diverse and cheap street food served from various carts in the downtown area. Visiting in fall or winter will ensure you see this city (one of the most-visited spots in Mexico) in its most tranquil light, but December through April is when the weather is closest to perfect.

Ornate baroque and neoclassical buildings, busy plazas and colorful homes are everywhere you turn in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city. Guanajuato, situated about 50 miles west of San Miguel de Allende, is known for its subterranean streets and tunnels, which you can explore on a walking tour or at your own leisure. After admiring the city's cobblestone roadways and charming colonial architecture, grab a souvenir or bite to eat at the bustling Mercado Hidalgo. If you enjoy art, arrive in October when the popular Festival Internacional Cervantino takes place.

As the capital of Yucatán, Mérida's rich culture is visible around every turn. White stone mansions line Paseo de Montejo (the city's main street), while vibrant Sunday markets provide a taste of old-world Mexico. Those looking for Mayan ruins are also in luck; many ancient archaeological sites are in close proximity, including the famed Chichén Itzá just 75 miles east. Meanwhile, museum and art enthusiasts praise El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida, as well as the city's art galleries and local murals. When it comes to lodging, travelers will have their pick of quaint boutique hotels.

The most populous city in Mexico is steeped in history and culture. Mexico City boasts delectable cuisine, ancient Aztec sites and world-class hotels – all at fairly low costs – but if you feel like splurging, you'll find an array of high-end shops along the tree-lined Avenida Presidente Masaryk in the Polanco neighborhood. Must-see attractions in Mexico City include the Zócalo, the Palace of Fine Arts, Chapultepec Castle and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. And if you want to eat your way through the city, consider signing up for a food tour .

For a vacation packed with authentic character, head to Puebla. This city, which sits about 80 miles southeast of Mexico City, is filled with colonial architecture and numerous churches, but its main draws are its stunning Talavera pottery, its historical forts and museums, and its sweet and spicy cuisine. Visitors must try mole poblano (made with numerous ingredients, including chiles, meat, chocolate, cinnamon and garlic) and chiles en nogada (chiles stuffed with beef and served with a walnut sauce and fruit like peaches, apples and pomegranate seeds). When the sun sets, venture to Callejón de los Sapos to listen to live music.

Playa del Carmen boasts an exciting food scene, with eateries dishing out everything from delectable tacos and tostadas to sushi and expertly cooked seafood, plus an even hipper bar culture. What's more, this destination in the Riviera Maya beckons to vacationers with its soft white sand blanketing its beaches and its stunning shoreline views. Visitors can also bike to a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip or hit the links at one of the numerous surrounding golf courses. All-inclusive resorts , vacation rentals and boutique properties abound in Playa del Carmen, too, giving travelers plenty of options to find the best fit for their preferences and budgets.

This secluded vacation spot is known for its luxurious lodging options (from vacation rentals to high-end hotels like the St. Regis and the Four Seasons), golf courses and charming beaches, such as El Anclote and Playa de Punta Mita. The small resort village of Punta Mita sits on a peninsula in Banderas Bay and most appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing atmosphere. Those interested in scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and surfing will be able to enjoy those activities here as well. If you're visiting between December and March, book a whale watching tour for a chance to see humpback or orca whales.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Puerto Vallarta

Cabo San Lucas

San Miguel de Allende

Guadalajara

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Home » North America » Mexico City

9 BEST Places to Visit in Mexico City (2024)

The buzzing capital of Mexico, Mexico City is a beautiful and megadiverse city with much history, modern culture, politics, arts, and archaeological sites. There are nearby natural wonders to discover and it’s a terrific place for an adventure.

With almost 20 million people living in Mexico City, and the city sprawling over a huge distance, the crowds and distances can be rather overwhelming. Indeed, it’s the biggest Spanish-speaking city in the whole world! Tackling the city as a traveler can be daunting.

Don’t fret! We’ve put together a list of the best places to visit in Mexico City to make planning your trip a breeze. Combining off-the-beaten-track treasures and popular hotspots, there’s never a dull moment in the Mexican capital.

Tick off these best places to visit in Mexico City and you cannot help but be amazed!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Mexico City:

These are the best places to visit in mexico city, faq on the best places to visit in mexico city.

Roma is home to Mexico City’s quirky subculture. It was the original home of many wealthy Europeans who flocked to Mexico at the turn of the 20th century, and French-style mansions can still be found dotting the avenues and lanes.

• Admire the street art found all around the neighborhood
• Try alcoholic-beverage flavored ice cream at Helado Obscuro
• Chill out in Plaza Rio de Janeiro – Roma’s most tranquil open space

And now onto the best places to visit in Mexico City!

There is heaps to do in Mexico City for backpackers and all sorts of travellers! And when we say heaps, we mean A LOT. If you’re just staying for a short while, we’d recommend coming up with a rough Mexico City Itinerary so you won’t wander around the city without a plan. To help you decide on the best hotspots, check out the best places in Mexico City below. 

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#1 – Zocalo – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Mexico City

• Main city square
• Origin of the constitution
• Iconic structures
• Archaeological remains

Why it’s awesome: Zocalo is one of the main and biggest city squares in the world located in the Centro Historico, one of coolest areas to stay in Mexico City . It is filled with exciting architecture and has a long history. Visitors can discover great moments from the city’s past; interestingly, this is the spot where the country’s constitution was born. The Cathedral, one of the most iconic landmarks in Mexico City, is the perfect spot to start explorations of the large square.

With two towers, three main gateways, and five naves, the Cathedral Metropolitian is a Mexico City must-see. The National Palace is another remarkable landmark; it has a museum of Mexican history, a display of Mercian governors, and a lovely sculpture garden. There are plenty of shops close to hand as well as an interesting art museum.

What to do there: Gaze up in awe at the massive Mexican flag right in the middle of the city square. The flag ceremony is well worth seeing, where the troop squeezes in, lines up, and marches with the flag; it takes place at 6 am and 6 pm. Top tip: wear a hat or grab a spot in the shade to watch the cool ceremony as the square is mainly open and the sun is strong! Wander around the square and admire the gorgeous architecture, see a wide range of works in the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts), and head to the west side of Zocalo for great shopping at Portal de Mecaderes. Want to look into the future? Visit one of the fortune-tellers!

#2 – Mercado de Sonora – Quite the quirky place in Mexico City!

• Array of goods on sale
• Traditional market
• See local life
• Witchcraft-related items

Why it’s awesome: Mercado de Sonara is located in Colonia Merced Balbuena, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Mexico City. It’s a traditional market that dates back to the 1950s. A popular place for locals to pick up an array of items, it’s also a fantastic spot to observe local life and find unusual local souvenirs. The bustling market is also famous for its huge selection of items related to witchcraft and the occult. Many people head here to stock up on items ahead of the annual Day of the Dead celebrations. Noisy, eclectic, hectic, and crowded, it’s atmospheric and a great place to get cool photos to fill up your Instagram feed.

What to do there: Wander through the vibrant market and view the huge assortment of goods on sale. From ceramics, music, clothes, and toys, to pets, books, and medicinal herbs, you’ll find numerous items to catch your eye. There are many food items too as well as places where you can sit down and enjoy a meal. Seeing the large collection of magical items is, however, what makes visiting the market a Mexico City must do. Ogle things like candles used for love spells, colourful and pungent potions in mystical bottles, amulets, water supposedly imbued with magical powers, horseshoes, and much more. Pick up things to increase your fortunes, encourage love, aid health, get rid of evil, and so on. You can even visit a spell caster to seek a variety of outcomes.

#3 – Cathedral Metropolitan – One of the most religious places to see in Mexico City

• Eye-catching architecture
• Rich history
• Several ruins to explore
• Amazing interiors

Why it’s awesome: An impressive building constructed over the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan and with stones from the ancient temples, Cathedral Metropolitian is one of Mexico’s ancient architectural masterpieces. It is also the oldest cathedral in Latin America. In the past, the area was submerged underwater. Preservation efforts subsequently led to the discovery of the ruins. The area consists of the adjacent tabernacle and numerous chapels beautifully designed in a Spanish Baroque (Churrigueresque) style. The interiors are impressive, with high vaulted ceilings, countless paintings, revered altars, and colourful statues. One of the most famous places in Mexico City, it is often considered to be one of the most beautiful cathedrals around the world. There’s no charge to enjoy the splendor, though donations are gratefully received.

What to do there: Feast your eyes on the handsome and grand building from the outside, complete with magnificent towers and gates, before stepping inside to be wowed by even more beauty. Absorb the tranquil religious vibe and sit for a while in quiet contemplation. Religious devotees might like to attend a solemn mass service here too. Admire the sculptures and paintings and walk around the cathedral’s edges to step inside the smaller side chapels.

#4 – Templo Mayor – One of Mexico City’s coolest historical sites!

• At the heart of an old city
• Identical shrines
• Interesting Aztec artifacts
• Archaeological wonder

Why it’s awesome: Templo Mayor was at the heart of ancient Mexican civilization when the old capital was known as Tenchochtitlan. Today, you’ll find it in the centre of Mexico City. It was the main temple in the past, with several identical shrines and staircases. The identical temple was dedicated to two deities: Huitzilpochtli, the God of War, and Tlaloc, the God of Rain. It was the scene of many human sacrifices and hunting rituals during the Aztec era. There are fascinating Aztec artifacts housed in the well-preserved archaeological wonder today.

What to do there: The Templo Mayor is one of the coolest archaeological sites in Mexico City, and you can travel back in time to the Aztec period. Take time to explore the public area before paying the nominal fee for a closer peek. Discover the wide array of artifacts and exhibits across the museum’s different sections and learn more about history, heritage, culture, and the people of the past.

#5 – Chapultepec Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Mexico City

• Large urban park
• Varied museums
• Family-friendly
• Diverse recreational activities

Why it’s awesome: The expansive Chapultepec Park is the oldest and largest urban park in Latin America. It was once a retreat center for Aztec rulers in the past. The enormous area has a number of interesting and famous attractions. The park is divided into three main areas, which include museums, lakes, lawns, historic spots, an amusement park, a zoo, a botanical garden, and more. Various activities are available in the park and it’s a top spot to enjoy some relaxation away from the busy city streets. It’s an especially fantastic addition to any Mexico City itinerary for families and couples.

What to do there: Take kids to the amusement park and watch as they giggle on various rides. See a large assortment of creatures, including the popular pandas, in the zoo. Follow well-marked walking routes around the large park, spot a variety of flora and fauna, find a quiet spot to unwind and relax, watch the entertaining street performers, and ride a paddleboat across the lake. Visit the different museums and art galleries, with something to suit almost all tastes. If visiting with the family, kids can catch the little train that tours around the park. It’s a good place for joggers and cyclists, especially in the morning.

#6 – The Palace of Fine Arts – A great place to visit in Mexico City if you are alone/travelling solo

• Cultural treasure
• Majestic architecture
• Artworks by renowned artists
• Performances and shows

Why it’s awesome: The Palace of Fine Arts is one of the most well-known points of interest in Mexico City. Indeed, it is famous around the world for its distinctive cultural and artistic values and (in my opinion) it’s best when you’re visiting Mexico alone AKA having as much time as you want! Interestingly, it took 30 years to complete the building and collection. The majestic design blends Neoclassical and Art Nouveau architectural styles, while the interior is largely Art Deco in appearance. The huge structure is so big that it actually sunk more than four metres (13 feet)! The museum contains works by both local artists and those that are internationally renowned. The expansive museum also has a huge theatre, a concert hall, balconies, and halls, along with the galleries that house the diverse collection of beautiful artworks. The balcony lobbies boast admirable murals by famous artists like Diego Rivera, David Alfora Siqueriros, and Jose Clemente, adding even more for visitors to enjoy. It’s certainly a top place to visit in Mexico City for any art lover.

What to do there: Marvel at the stunning solid marble central stairways. Flood your emotions and provoke your thoughts as you view the stunning collections, which contain paintings, murals, sculptures, statues, and other artistic treasures. It is worth paying extra for a ticket to watch the incredible traditional performances for a taste of Mexican culture. If you need a break you will find a nice restaurant inside the palace. You might also want to view the building at night too when it’s strikingly illuminated.

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#7 – National Museum of Anthropology – An awesome place to visit in Mexico City for half a day!

• Educational museum
• Well-preserved artifacts
• Various eras explored
• In-depth descriptions

Why it’s awesome: A Mexico City must-do for anyone with an interest in history, cultures, and art, the educational National Museum of Anthropology takes visitors on a journey through Mexico’s history . It covers all time periods, from before the Aztec society to the Spanish invasion. It’s a fantastic place to learn more about Mexico’s pre-Columbian heritage, with terrific artifacts like the significant Aztec Sun Stone (which was essentially an early tool that was part of the Aztec calendar), a recreation of Pakal’s tomb, and the mask of Jada. Other items include artworks, sculptures, jewellery, clothing, and tools, as well as eerie human remains. Items are well preserved and well presented, and in-depth descriptions help visitors to fully appreciate the vast collections.

What to do there: Step back in time as you learn all about ancient Mexican cultures. View the diverse anthropological artifacts in the well-designed exhibits and appreciate stunning artworks. Highlights include gigantic stone heads from the Olmec civilization, a reconstruction of the ancient city of Tenochtitlan, the Frieze of Placeres, a turquoise-covered skull, and various statues and masks. See the crowd-pleasing waterfall at the middle of the museum too. All plenty of time to fully explore the museum; There are 23 exhibit halls! Be sure to explore the surrounding streets, filled with statues, structures, and art, after your visit.

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# 8 – Xochimilco – One of the more unique places to visit in Mexico City!

• Ride on colourful boats
• Important water source during the Aztec period
• An unusual island full of dolls
• Organic farm

Why it’s awesome: Xochimilco was a major water transportation route during the Aztec period. Located on the outskirts of Mexico City, visitors can discover the ancient Aztec waterways and enjoy a variety of recreational activities. There’s a network of canals, with colourful boats called trajineras adding to the scenic beauty. There’s also a floating island that practices organic farming. Several vendors sell fresh food and drinks, Mexican cuisine and handicrafts. The area is also home to one of the most unusual things to do in Mexico City: the creepy, quirky, and spooky Doll Island. It’s a great place to learn more about Mexico City’s unique culture , as well as spending time outdoors.

What to do there: Experience rich Mexican traditions with a ride along the canals on one of the brightly coloured and highly decorated trajineras. Soak up the views as you pass by trajineras selling food, drinks, and handicrafts. Listen to traditional Mexican music as you float along the waterways. Check out the organic farm too; the area is truly beautiful with gorgeous scenery. Don’t miss visiting one of the creepiest attractions in Mexico City: Doll Island. One of the best Mexico City vacation ideas for fans of the macabre, unusual, and strange, the island is covered with many decaying dolls hanging lifelessly from the trees!

#9 – Chapultepec Castle – A great place to see in Mexico City if you love architecture

• Former home of royalty and presidents
• Historic battle site
• Wide array of items on display
• Spectacular views

Why it’s awesome: Sitting majestically on top of Chapultepec Hill, the grand Chapultepec Castle was built during the 1780s. Originally intended to be a stately summer home, it has served various purposes over the years. As well as a royal abode, it has been used as storage for the military, as the presidential home, and it is now home to an interesting museum. The site was once important for the Aztecs and battles have taken place here. The elevated position provides amazing views of the surroundings. The museum has two main sections and there are regular temporary exhibitions and events.

What to do there: Appreciate the enormous and spectacular castle from a distance; the architecture is awe-inspiring. Make the uphill walk to reach the main entrance, passing through foliage and nature. The historical site will give you an overview of Mexico from the Aztec era right up to the present day. Inside, admire the lavish rooms, complete with period furnishings, and see how wealthy people lived in times gone by. You can also see large collections of paintings, murals, magnificent jewels, and more. Furthermore, the monuments of brave Hero Cadets are displayed with pride. Enjoy the greenery that adds extra beauty, and soak up the spectacular city views from the top of the hill.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Mexico City

Is Mexico City good for tourists?

Sure is! It’s jam packed with culture, archaeological sites, sick places to eat and it’s lively as heck!

What are the best cultural things to do in Mexico City?

The heart of the old city can be seen at the impressive Templo Mayor. Dating back to the Aztec period it’s one of the most important sites for Mexican culture.

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

Explore all the wild and wonderful trinkets on offers at the Mercado de Sonora, a a traditional market dating back to the 50’s.

What is there for couples in Mexico City?

Take a ride along the beautiful Xochimilco and take in the scenery along this ancient Aztec waterway just outside of the city.

A few more of the best places to visit in Mexico City

Visiting Mexico City with kids? Check out the interactive Papalote Museo del Niño, watch various sea creatures at Acuario Inbursa, let younger kids have fun at KidZania, and visit the planetarium. Older children (and adults!) can have a fun-filled day with plenty of thrills at Six Flags Mexico.

The stunning hidden gem of the Palacio Postal is one of the most underrated places to see in Mexico City. Take a trip to Coyoacán to see where famous artist Frida Kahlo lived. Admire the views from the top of Torre Latinoamericana or the Revolution Monument. La Lagunilla is a great place in Mexico City if you love to shop! See art in the free-to-enter Museo Soumaya, a perfect place to visit in Mexico City if you are on a budget. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Teotihuacan to explore the fascinating ancient ruins.

You’ll definitely have plenty of adventures and terrific experiences as you work your way through these best places to visit in Mexico City.

Claire Martin

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The 25 Best Places To Visit in Mexico City According To Locals

You'll never run out of places to visit in Mexico City. This vibrant, bustling metropolis contains everything from ancient ruins to sparkling skyscrapers. It's easy to get overwhelmed, which is why we asked some Mexico City locals for their advice. 

With their help, we created this guide to the 25 best places to visit in Mexico City. 

No one knows a place like the people who live there. Work with a local to build your Mexico City trip. 

#1: The Hip Neighborhoods Of Roma & Condesa

Locals tell us that the adjacent Roma and Condesa neighborhoods are a definite must-visit in Mexico City. Here, travelers will find a wealth of bars, restaurants, and charming shops. Even walking around is delightful! Roma and Condesa are full of incredible Art Deco mansions. 

Both neighborhoods are well-loved by locals and visitors alike, which means taking advantage of local advice is a good way to avoid the more touristy areas. Our local trip planners in Mexico City suggest exploring Condesa's gloriously green Parque Mexico  and checking out the street food at the Chilpancingo metro stop. 

#2: The Ancient Pyramids of Teotihuacan

The ancient Mayans built the Teotihuacan pyramids nearly 2,000 years ago—and they're just as stunning today as they were back then. Although this UNESCO site is a bit outside of town, the trip there is definitely worth it.

Locals tell us that the site is more than just pyramids. It's an entire ancient city lost in time. Check out what remains of this amazing civilization, including The Pyramid of the Sun, The Temple of Quetzalcoatl, and  the eerily named “Avenue of the Dead.” Climb the pyramids, wander the jungle looking for artifacts, or simply meander the site in wonder.

You can book a tour  to see the pyramids with a guide, or your local trip planner can give you detailed instructions on how to get there yourself (so you can explore it at your leisure).

#3:  The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco

Mexico City's Xochimilco neighborhood is a gorgeous network of wide canals and ancient, man-made floating islands. Though the Aztecs built these islands to grow crops, today they're used as massive, floating flower gardens.

This stunning site can be enjoyed via trajineras, adorable, colorful riverboats that take visitors through the waters. 

#4: El Museo Frida Kahlo 

Mexico City is filled with incredible museums (more than 150!) and Museo Frida Kahlo is among the most popular. Located in the quiet Coyoacan neighborhood, visitors can learn about Kahlo’s life and enjoy her art, ensconced in the “blue house” that she called home.

If you're a fan of Frida's art or want to immerse yourself in her world, this is definitely one of the best museums to visit in Mexico City .

#6: El Parnita 

Locals tell us that El Parnita is a cute little lunch joint that offers great Mexican fare — from tacos to tortas and beyond.

Tucked into the Roma neighborhood, El Parnita is often called " Mexico City's Favorite Taqueria ". Accordingly, the place gets PACKED.

Our advice: have your trip planner put a meal at El Parnita on your itinerary for when you're already in the neighborhood. That way, if it's too packed, you can keep exploring while the crowds calm down.

#6: El Palacio de Bellas Artes (The Palace of Fine Arts)

El Palacio de Bellas Artes (The Palace of Fine Arts) is more than just a beautiful face—though it does have a gorgeous face. 

This fantastic Mexico City landmark can do it all. Locals tell us that visitors can explore the Museum of Architecture on the top floor, attend classical music performances in its fabled concert hall, take in the amazing Diego Rivera murals in the lobby, check out the museum's extensive collection of 19th- ad 20th-century Mexican art, and ogle at the incredible Tiffany glass “curtain” in the theater.

#7:  El Zocalo

If you don’t want to miss out on the latest celebration, demonstration, big event, you name it, then locals recommend making a beeline for the Zocalo, Mexico City’s enormous public square (also known as Plaza de la Constitucion).

Even on a “quiet” day, the square is packed with people, dancers, and street musicians. Plus, it’s a great starting point since a lot of Mexico City’s sites encircle the Zocalo.

It can be a little overwhelming — there's so much to see! And do! And eat! —so get some local tips on how to explore this dynamic site. 

#8: La Pasteleria Ideal

Voyagers take heed: snacking is an important part of any trip. And locals tell us that Pasteleria Ideal has everything you could possibly want in that department, including a second floor where you can admire their elaborate, tiered wedding cakes.

This pastry shop is known as the best one in Mexico City, so make sure to stop by for some authentic sweets! 

#9: Chapultepec Park

Beautiful and green, Chapultepec Park spans nearly 1700 acres. But it offers much, much more than a respite from city life. Locals tell us that every corner of this green oasis is filled with stuff to do, whether that's walking trails, visiting museums, or taking a boat on a lake. 

Visitors to Chapultepec will also find an actual *castle* , botanical gardens, and an amusement park. In case you weren’t already impressed.

Local tip:   Once a month, locals organize a massive evening picnic in Chapultepec's forests.

#10: The Up-And-Coming Neighborhood Of Juarez

This once-grand neighborhood of Mexico City has seen better days, but Juarez in the midst of a huge bohemian revival.

Today, its Zona Rosa section is considered one of the best places for nightlife in Mexico City, as well as the city’s LGBT capital.  Plus, the street food around here is incredible . Locals suggest seeking out quesadillas and pambazos (sandwiches dipped in salsa and then grilled). 

Local tip : Juarez is generally safe, but it's good to talk to a local about what areas to avoid at night. 

#11: El Murro Churro Shop

Let's talk churros. They're delicious, they're sweet, they're crispy, and in Mexico City, they're dipped in mugs of thick, spiced hot chocolate. If you want authentic Mexican churro goodness, El Murro is the place to go.

This iconic churro shop is one of the city’s favorite spots for a hot, fresh churro and a cup of hot chocolate. Best part? El Murro is open twenty-four hours  (so it's perfect for a late-night snack after a few tequilas).

#12: El Centro Historico 

Mexico City’s historic center (aka Centro Historico ) is packed with museums, Spanish colonial buildings, and iconic sights like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Aztec Templo Mayor. It's no wonder why  Centro Historico is a UNESCO Heritage site !

With so many amazing things to see—not to mention the amazing Alameda Central Park just next door—it’s easy to spend an afternoon wandering through history here.

#13: Catedral Metropolitana (Metropolitan Cathedral)

This enormous cathedral borders the Zocalo, and though building started on it in 1567, it wasn’t completed until more than two hundred years later, in 1788.

The lengthy construction process resulted in an eclectic mix of architectural styles. But it also has a tragic connection to Mexico's pre-Hispanic past: The cathedral is made of stones taken from the destroyed Aztec temple just next door.

Locals say that although visiting the cathedral is not exactly one of Mexico City’s non-touristy things to do , it’s nevertheless well worth a visit.

#13: The Templo Mayor Museum

Speaking of the ancient Aztecs...as the legend goes, they had specific instructions from a higher power to build a city where an eagle stands upon a cactus, with a snake in its mouth.*

They did! But It wasn’t until 1978 that this ancient city (called Tenochtitlan) was rediscovered. Mexico City was literally built on top of it after the Spaniards arrived and destroyed it. 

Today, Templo Mayor (roughly translated as the high temple) is a stunning archeological site and museum, which visitors can explore for just 70 pesos, or less than four dollars.

In our opinion, this is among the best things to do in Mexico City . It majestically captures the ancient world of the Aztecs, who, once saw the land as holy ground. 

*Sound familiar? Today, this is Mexico’s coat of arms.

#14: Plaza Garibaldi

Locals tell us that Plaza Garibaldi is one of the best places in the city to hear some classic mariachi music!

A short walk north from the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Plaza Garibaldi is surrounded by tons of restaurants, bars, and museums (making for a happening part of town).

However, locals note that (while Mexico City is safe on the whole) this part of town can get dodgy at night.

#15 : El Museo del Tequila y Mezcal

Locals highly recommend a stop in at the Museo del Tequila y el Mezcal . They suggest taking the museum tour (it includes samples!) to give yourself an immersive education on the history and production of tequila and mezcal, two of Mexico's favorite spirits.

The tour ends on the museum’s rooftop, which affords a gorgeous look at Plaza Garibaldi below and a chance to enjoy mariachi music from afar.

Local tip: Although caution should be exercised in Plaza Garibaldi at night, the museum is open late, until 10 PM or midnight depending on the day.

#16: The Charming Coyoacan Neighborhood

Although Coyoacan is a quieter Mexico City neighborhood , that doesn't mean that it lacks exciting activities. Far from it! Definitely check out the stunning Museo Frida Kahlo — one of the area's main draws — but stick around to explore the rest of this gorgeous part of town. 

Locals recommend  checking out the iconic Vivero Coyoacan (one of Mexico’s national parks) and sampling street food at the Mercado de Coyoacan (a classic Mexico City market—locals say you *must* try the tostadas).

#17: El Museo Soumaya

There are so, so, so many incredible museums in Mexico City. But Museo Soumaya is one of the city's best — and it's free to visit.

Nestled in Mexico City's Polanco neighborhood , Museo Soumaya's bright silver scales and unusual shape make it hard to ignore. But the interior of the museum is just as incredible. It includes 60,000+ pieces of art, including a huge collection of Rodin sculptures, as well as a ton of art by Mexican artists like   Diego Rivera .

#18: El Palacio Nacional

The Palacio Nacional, where the president works, is more than a stunning piece of architecture located along the Zocalo.

Free to enter, visitors can explore its museums, beautiful courtyards, and rooms filled with period furniture. Locals say to definitely check out the incredible, sprawling Diego Rivera murals on the second floor.

#19: El Torre Latinoamericana Skyscraper

One of the cool things about Mexico City is that it’s such a combination of old and new. Torre Latinoamericana is an example of this contrast—a skyscraper next to ancient ruins.

Once the tallest building in Latin America, it’s still the tallest building in Centro Historico. Climb to the observation deck for a truly jaw-dropping look at Mexico City from above. 

Local tip :  If you're looking for great Mexico City views , be sure to check out the Zocalo Central Hotel rooftop restaurant or the Terraza Catedral beer garden. 

#20: The Posh Polanco Neighborhood

Wondering where to eat in Mexico City ? You can’t really go wrong with… anywhere. But that being said, locals say that Polanco is a great place to start.

Some of the world’s best restaurants are nestled in this neighborhood. And Polanco is more than just food: visitors will find tons of great markets, shopping, and parks—even a park named for Abraham Lincoln !

#21: El Monumento de la Revolucion

The Monumento de la Revolucíon looks like the Arc de Triomphe—but bigger.

The monument, which commemorates the revolution that liberated Mexico from Spain, is more than what meets the eye. Locals suggest checking out the National Museum of the Revolution , riding a glass elevator to the top to take in sweeping views, or descending to the crypts to pay respects to Mexico’s revolutionary heroes.

Local tip: Adjacent to the San Rafael neighborhood, this is a great spot for a sunset photo.

#22: The Chill Neighborhood Of San Rafael

Like the nearby Juarez neighborhood, San Rafael has seen better days. But it’s in the midst of a grand revival and is perfect for those who want to explore non-touristy areas of Mexico City.

Less crowded than Roma and Condesa, locals tell us there are still tons of great bars, restaurants, and art galleries to check out here. Although it’s a bit off-the-beaten-path, San Rafael is still safe to visit — just exercise normal caution like you would elsewhere in the city. 

Local tip: Be sure to pick up some   comida corrida (basically Mexican tapas) in San Rafael’s wonderful neighborhood market, Mercado San Cosme.

#24: The Historic Bar  La Opera

La Opera , which first opened in the 1870s, embraces an old-time class that's hard to find. 

Locals suggest ordering a good tequila, and asking the bartender to point out where Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa once shot a hole in the ceiling. Yeah — it's that kind of place. 

#25: El Museo Nacional de Antropologia

Among all of Mexico City’s spectacular museums, the Museo de Antropologia is the shining star. Locals say that visitors could easily spend an entire day exploring Mexico’s largest and most visited museum.

With 22 rooms covering Mexico’s pre-Hispanic past, there’s a ton to take in. Literally— there are millions of archeological pieces to check out. Plus, the museum’s beautiful architecture is a reason in itself to stop by.

Find a local to plan your trip . And for more on Mexico City travel, check out: 

• The Ultimate Mexico City Travel Guide 2024
• Flights to Mexico City: Everything You Need to Know
• 2024 Mexico City Travel FAQs
• The Best Time to Visit Mexico City

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6 alternative and arty ways to discover Mexico City culture

Amid art deco architecture and Frida Kahlo’s creations, find Mexico City’s pre-Hispanic traditions and an Indigenous crafts scene.

Mexico’s sprawling capital is a gateway to the country’s Maya ruins, miles of beaches, rocky canyons and traditional Indigenous villages. But many travellers find the metropolis has an allure all of its own, and a handful of days can be well spent touring its neighbourhoods and historic centre. Mexico’s best museums are here, and its many galleries and markets help facilitate one of the strongest creative scenes in Latin America. Dig a little deeper to find the city’s pre-Hispanic roots, and discover how many customs are linked to the ancient Aztec and Maya civilisations.

1. Kayak the ancient canals of Xochimilco

Before the Spanish conquest in 1521, Mexico City, then called Tenochtitlán, was built on two small islands inside Lake Texcoco. The Aztecs built canals and floating farms called chinampas to feed its growing population. Today, all that remains of these ancient waterways are in Tláhuac and Xochimilco, a neighbourhood 15 miles south of Mexico City’s Centro Histórico. Flat-bottomed party boats called trajineras cruise Xochimilco’s canals daily, but a guided kayaking trip provides a more tranquil — and environmentally friendly — visit. Tours offer the chance to spot Xochimilco’s wildlife, including the critically endangered axolotl salamander and more than 200 bird species, while learning about the history and science behind chinampas, which still provide food for Mexico City residents.

2. Browse the Museo de Arte Popular

In the historic centre of Mexico City is the Museo de Arte Popular , a beautifully designed handicraft museum housed inside a 1920s art deco building. The museum, which once served as Mexico City’s fire department headquarters, celebrates traditional Mexican craft in all its forms, from textiles and pottery to children’s toys, furniture and giant alebrijes — mythical creatures made from wood or papier-mache. High-quality crafts from almost every Mexican state are displayed thematically over several floors, including ceramics from Jalisco, piñatas from Puebla and ceremonial masks from Chiapas. Particularly striking are the small but impressive Day of the Dead craft collection and the á rbol de la vida (tree of life) pieces – colourful, intricate clay sculptures depicting the creation of life.

3. Sip on pulque, the drink of the Aztec gods

Pulque is a drink made from the fermented sap of agave, the same plant used to make tequila and mezcal. It has been drunk for more than 2,000 years, making it Mexico’s oldest alcoholic beverage. During the Aztec empire, pulque was considered a sacred drink, reserved for gods, emperors and ceremonial events. The introduction of beer and distilled spirits by the Spanish in the 16th century marked the beginning of the end for pulque, with many of Mexico City’s pulquerias — taverns specialising in the drink — closing between the early 20th and 21st centuries. But a recent resurgence has seen several reopen across the city, making it one of the best places in Mexico to try the tipple. La Canica — a pulqueria in the Tabacalera neighbourhood run by a family that has been in the pulque business for five generations — takes a modern approach to the ancient drink, infusing freshly made pulque with dozens of seasonal flavours, from guava and mandarin to marzipan and toasted oats.

4. Try Mexico City’s ancient caviar

Ahuautle — which loosely translates to ‘seeds of joy’ in the ancient Nahuatl language and are also known as ‘water fly eggs’ — were sacred to the Aztecs. During the rainy season, a type of water fly called axayácatl would lay its eggs in Lake Texcoco. These were harvested for Aztec emperors and used as offerings to the gods. Montezuma, one of the last emperors of the Aztec empire, is said to have eaten them every morning to improve his strength. Hard to get hold of and up to four times more expensive a kilogram than beef, the eggs have been dubbed ahuautle , the ‘caviar’ of Mexico, by the capital’s chefs. Only a handful of restaurants in the capital still serve ahuautle, one of which is Ayluardo’s — in the Iztapalapa neighbourhood, in the east of Mexico City. It serves the water fly eggs — which taste intensely fishy, similar to dried shrimp — in pancakes with tomatillo (a bright green, acidic fruit native to Mexico) and serrano chilli sauce.

5. Support indigenous crafts at Mercado de Artesanías de la Ciudadela

Just a few minutes’ walk from Museo de Arte Popular is this hub for artisans, Mexico City’s largest and best arts and crafts market. It is home to 350 stands selling a huge variety of crafts, or artesanias in Spanish, from all over Mexico, including handblown glass from Jalisco, silver jewellery from Guerrero and patterned chaquira beadwork from Jalisco, crafted by the indigenous Huichol people. For beautiful ceremonial Mayan masks made of wood and obsidian, head to stand 104, where you’ll often see the craftspeople at work. Also seek out the artisans selling amate — colourful works painted on to paper made from the pulp of fig and mulberry trees; the same type of paper was once used by the ancient Aztecs and Mayas to produce manuscripts.

6. Experience Mexican folk dance at El Ballet Folklórico de México

Founded in 1952 by choreographer and dancer Amalia Hernández, Ballet Folklórico celebrates Mexico’s diverse folklore traditions through dance, music and traditional dress. The performances take audiences from Mexico’s ancient past up to the revolution in 1910, travelling through the states of Oaxaca, Jalisco, Sonora, Zacatecas, Guerrero and more. Many of the dances take inspiration from Mexico’s Indigenous cultures, such as the Deer Dance (a contemporary piece that depicts a pre-hunting ritual practised by the Indigenous people of Sonora and Sinaloa) and the Guelaguetza, a folkloric ballet inspired by the ceremonial dances of the Mixtec and Zapotec people of Oaxaca. Performances are held at the Palacio de Bellas Artes — a white-marbled, art nouveau palace commissioned by President Porfirio Díaz in 1905 — on Wednesdays at 8.30pm and Sundays at 9.30am and 8.30pm.

Related Topics

• CULTURAL CONSERVATION
• ART HISTORY
• MODERN HISTORY

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The Best Hotels in Mexico City, From Art Deco Guesthouses to Minimalist Hideouts

By Michaela Trimble

We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.

There’s a reason Mexico is one of the most coveted destinations to visit in Latin America—and why the best hotels in Mexico City are an excellent play to start immersing yourself in the culture. Warm and deeply hospitable, with some of the best food in the world and a flourishing art and design scene, Mexico City is a great place to visit any time; the weather is perfect nearly year-round.

Whether you opt to stay in Mexico City’s Centró Historico district, where icons like the La Catedral Metropolitana and the Museo de Templo Mayor are within easy reach, or you prefer to venture to Condesa , where parks and green spaces are as abundant as natural wine bars and convivial cafés, you can’t go wrong. Below, our guide to the best hotels in Mexico City.

Vogue ’s Favorite Hotels in Mexico City

• For a Home Away From Home: Ignacia Guesthouse
• For Impeccable Views: Ritz Carlton Mexico City
• For a Luxurious Work Trip: Four Seasons Mexico City
• For a Creative Escape: Hotel San Fernando
• For Monastic Calm: Octavia Casa
• For Contemporary Art Fans: Colima 71
• For an Intimate Retreat : La Valise Mexico City
• For Upscale Design: Campos Polanco
• For Music Lovers: Volga

Ignacia Guesthouse

This Beaux-Arts mansion was first built in 1913 as a private family home and is now one of the top boutique properties in the Roma Norte borough. Named after the home’s housekeeper, Ignacia, who worked at the mansion for more than forty years, the nine-suite property—featuring a salon, dining room, kitchen area, and three suites set in the original structure—is sought after for its cozy feel, as if you’re staying at the home of a well-to-do friend. In partnership with construction firm Factor Eficiencia, the designer Andrés Gutiérrez was tapped to create a new extension of the property, which now houses four suites designed in color-blocked interiors, from a gold-hued room to one decked in shades of rose. In 2022, two balcony suites were added, which share a common outdoor space adorned with fireplaces and a jacuzzi framed by treetops. During a stay, guests are privy to elaborate breakfast spreads that present Mexican classics like huevos rancheros and chilaquiles in the highest quality manner with ingredients sourced from traditional markets around the city.

• Amenities: Outdoor courtyard, library, specialty coffee, homemade breakfast
• Editor’s tip: Don’t miss the property’s daily happy hour. Complimentary drinks are served in the courtyard daily from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Address: Jalapa 208, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Casa Polanco

By Lorena Meouchi

By Leah Faye Cooper

By Hannah Coates

Located on the iconic Parque Lincoln in the ritzy Polanco borough, situated beyond a wrought-iron entranceway shrouded in greenery, this Spanish Colonial Revival estate was originally built as a private residence in the 1940s. After undergoing a meticulous four-year restoration process overseen by the architect Claudio Gantuz, Casa Polanco is now one of the area’s top boutique hotels, host to 19 opulent suites and one of the city’s top art collections. Interior design mother-daughter team Monica Romo and Monica Novelo of Casa M+M selected an eclectic mix of both classic and retro furniture to accent the property, which can first be seen in the foyer, a space made cozy with velvet olive furnishings and a marble fireplace. Within the home are green marble floors made even more vibrant by whitewashed walls, as well as a spiral staircase that leads to the suites. Within most of the rooms are two areas—a living and a workspace—as well as walnut wood flooring and custom furnishings by Alfonso Marina, one of Mexico’s finest cabinetmakers.

• Amenities: Private art collection, library, spa, and gym
• Editor’s tip: Browse the property’s private art collection, including abstract works by Jordi Boldó and black-and-white images by the contemporary photographer Graciela Iturbide.
• Address: Luis G. Urbina 84, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Ritz Carlton Mexico City

When it comes to impeccable views, the Ritz Carlton Mexico City has one of the best. Located within the towering, 58-story Chapultepec Uno skyscraper, of which the property occupies thirteen floors, the hotel’s interiors nod to the surrealist movement with a mix of metals, mirrors, and glass to create a reflective, sometimes perception-bending view of the city. Perched above the wide Paseo de la Reforma avenue, the hotel has a bird’s eye view of one of the city’s most iconic sites: Castilo de Chapultepec, once the home of the Spanish Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota. Of the 153 guest rooms, 19 are suites, some with private terraces with seating areas, dining and living rooms, and spacious marble bathrooms with soaking tubs. During a stay, guests can dine at Samos, the property’s Mediterranean-inspired eatery located on the 38 th floor, or cocktails at Carlotta, the sky bar with unmatched views.

• Amenities: Mediterranean restaurant, cocktail bar, spa, sweeping views
• Editor’s tip: Guests who prefer to skirt the grips of Mexico City traffic can arrive at the property by landing at its very own rooftop helipad.
• Address: Av. P.º de la Reforma 509, Cuauhtémoc, 06500 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Four Seasons Mexico City

Located on the bustling Paseo de la Reforma avenue where the lavender blooms of jacaranda trees blossom every spring, this hacienda-style property is one of the classic luxury hotels of the city. It’s one of the top choices of celebrities visiting the city, too, including the likes of Taylor Swift and Dua Lipa. Beyond the dimly lit lounge—where velvet sofas and a café offer an intimate setting for casual business meetings—is the heartbeat of the property: the central courtyard, an area draped in fruit trees, tropical plants, and Mexican art. It’s also where guests can access the hotel’s restaurant, Zanaya, a seafood-forward eatery that showcases the fresh catch of Mexico’s Pacific Coast, and Fifty Mils, one of the top cocktail bars in Latin America. Beyond the courtyard are over 200 guestrooms, of which 40 are suites, either with a courtyard view or a view of the skyline, outfitted with rich interiors like hardwood floors and a color palette of persimmon, sky blue, and gold.

• Amenities: Two restaurants, café, bar, spa, and a rooftop pool
• Editor’s tip: The property is set steps from the first section of the Bosque de Chapultepec, a verdant green space host to cobbled walkways perfect for running and the Castilo de Chapultepec, a historic hilltop castle that’s now the National Museum of History.
• Address: Av. P.º de la Reforma 500, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, 06600 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Hotel San Fernando

Just steps from the Condesa neighborhood’s jacaranda-lined Parque Mexico, Hotel San Fernando is a tucked-away boutique hotel button-holed between a natural wine bar and a café. When guests first arrive at the Art Deco building—it was originally built as an apartment complex in 1947 and has since been converted into a hotel by the Texas-based Bunkhouse group—they’re greeted by a minty façade lined with potted plants and an outdoor seating area, an extension of the ground-floor bar that offers Agave-based cocktails and classic Mexican small plates by evening. Adjacent to the space is the lobby, an area perfumed with copal incense and adorned with jewel-toned seating. Just beyond is a staircase that leads guests to the 19 candy-colored suites. Each offers walls shaded in pops of coral and features accents produced by Mexico-based creatives, from plywood furniture designed by the design firm La Metropolitan and customized bedside lighting and decorative lamps by the studio Oaxifornia, to artwork by the likes of Ricardo Guevara, Juan Carlos Breceda, and Pedro Friedeberg.

• Amenities: Rooftop, restaurant, bar, suites with fully-equipped kitchens
• Editor’s tip: Travelers can bring their dog in tow, as the property is pet-friendly and located next to the top dog park in Condesa.
• Address: Iztaccihuatl 54, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc, 06100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Octavia Casa

This minimalist bed-and-breakfast is the work of the fashion designer Roberta Maceda, of label Octavia, who set about creating the oasis of her dreams alongside her mother after the duo purchased a crumbling building in the Condesa neighborhood. After demolishing the building and starting fresh, the duo built Octavia Casa. On a block of otherwise colorful façades, this contemporary, three-story building is distinct: designed by the architect Pablo Pérez Palacios, the entrance is marked by teca-wood panels and planters overflowing with jasmine. Within, guests are greeted in the lobby marked by walls brushed with chukum , a lime and concrete finish first used by the Maya of southern Mexico. In the lobby is a seating area with bamboo stools set adjacent to a breakfast nook: a tranquil garden with pebbled flooring and shade provided by a fruiting Japanese guava tree. Up a staircase are seven suites, each in varying size—two studios, a large apartment-style suite, and four standard rooms—and which showcase the works of some of Mexico’s premier design studios, from ceramics by Encrudo to glassware by Onora Casa. While the property doesn’t have a restaurant, it does offer daily breakfasts with coffee, juice, and pastries provided by the next-door bakery.

• Amenities: Rooftop, continental breakfast, natural wine menu
• Editor’s tip: On the rooftop terrace, a space filled with Acapulco chairs and terrazzo tables, guests can enjoy the sunset over the property’s selection of Mexican natural wines.
• Address: Av. Amatlan 126, Hipódromo Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, 06170 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

For contemporary art enthusiasts, a stay at Colima 71 in the Roma Norte neighborhood is ideal. Designed by the famed Mexican architect Alberto Kalach—who is best known for his design of private homes and boutique hotels along the Oaxacan coast—the brutalist-style property melds elemental materials with the tree-lined natural surroundings of the neighborhood. When guests first enter, they’re greeted by a lobby with velvet furnishings and a floor-to-ceiling installation of black-and-white photography by the artist Iñaki Bonilla. Further inside is another sculpture, this one by Guatemalan artist Darío Escobar made from found objects like bicycle tires and steel. It matches the aesthetic of the steel and glass elevator that takes guests up to the floors host to 16 apartment-style suites. Within each are refined furnishings and well-equipped kitchens that make the suites perfect for extended stays in the area. Though the property doesn’t have a restaurant, guests are offered direct-to-suite delivery of morning pastries and specialty coffee.

• Amenities: Cozy lounge, stocked bar, extensive library
• Editor’s tip: Be sure to help yourself to the honesty bar near the lounge, replete with a luxurious green marble tabletop sourced from Iran.
• Address: Colima 71, col. , Del, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

La Valise Mexico City

Set in a renovated 1920s French-style townhouse, this boutique property is located near all the best art galleries, restaurants, bars, and cafés in the Roma Norte neighborhood. With only eight expansive suites, the hotel offers an unmatched level of intimacy, with an ever-attentive team ready to assist guests during their stay by booking experiences ranging from a taco and Mezcal tour to hot air balloon rides over the ruins of Teotihuacán. Each of the suites feels more like a studio apartment by design and features bespoke Mexican artifacts, vintage objects, and furnishings selected by the brand’s design director, Roberto Ayala. For the most unique stay, guests can book one of the suites that offers a rolling slide-out king bed that allows guests to sleep outdoors on a private terrace. Not only does it offer a distinct way to soak up the cityscape, but the hotel also offers in-suite projectors for movie nights al fresco.

• Amenities: Daily breakfast, nightly turn-down service, in-room projectors
• Editor’s tip: La Valise is just around the corner from Panadería Rosetta, where guests can order afternoon croissants, cappuccinos, and green juice.
• Address: Tonalá 53, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Campos Polanco

Overlooking the República Del Líbano garden and only one block from the tranquil Parque Lincoln, Campos Polanco is one of the newest hotels in the posh Polanco borough. Beyond the reception area of the six-floor Art Deco building—a space decorated with a mustard leather sofa and walnut lounge chairs upholstered in black leather or blue velvet—is a spiral terrazzo staircase that guests can use to access the hotel’s suites. Each level of the building has a shared space, from a library to a dining table, perfect for family gatherings. While some suites are studio in style, more akin to traditional hotel rooms, some of the largest rooms are more residential and offer living areas with fireplaces, fully-equipped kitchens, as well as open-concept bathrooms with claw-foot porcelain soaking tubs, making them ideal for extended stays in the city. Each morning, guests can enjoy breakfast in the downstairs courtyard or within a cozy breakfast nook with dishes that include recipes prepared by the chef Diego Isunza Kahlo, the great-grand-nephew of Frida Kahlo.

• Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, robust art collection, top-floor terrace
• Editor’s tip: Guests will be surprised when they enter their rooms and find a sampling of Mexican chocolate paired with Oaxacan mezcal produced in the Santiago Matatlán region.
• Address: Campos Elíseos 361, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11540 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Círculo Mexicano

If travelers seek to experience the iconic sites of Centro Historic, there’s no better boutique property to stay in the city. Located on the cobbled pedestrian street in downtown Mexico City, this property—first built as a 19th-century townhome and the former residence of the late photographer Manuel Álvarez Bravo—feels like staying at a minimalist bazaar. On the ground floor are a series of shops, a courtyard seafood restaurant, and a cantina-style bar called Itacate del Mar for takeaway snacks. Above are the 25 Shaker-style guest suites, each replete with oakwood furnishings produced by the design studio La Metropolitana and some with exposed brick Catalan vault ceilings. But perhaps the property’s most incredible feature is the rooftop, host to an infinity pool, cocktail bar, and heated dipping tub. It also has one of the best views in the city: an unobstructed vista of Catedral Metropolitana, Palacio Nacional, and the Templo Mayor museum.

• Amenities: Ground-floor restaurants and shops, rooftop cocktail bar with outdoor pool
• Editor’s tip: If you can’t get a reservation at the hit restaurant Contramar, the courtyard of this hotel offers another restaurant by chef Gabriela Cámara, a seafood eatery and a cantina-style bar called Itacate del Mar.
• Address: República de Guatemala 20, Mexico City 06000, Mexico

Guests will know they’ve arrived at the Condesa DF when they glimpse a crimson 1940s Chevrolet Coupe at the entrance of an idyllic French Neoclassical building. The art installation by the contemporary Mexican artist Betsabeé Romero sets the tone for a stay at this boutique hotel, set within a private mansion first built in the 1920s. The architect Javier Sánchez led the building’s renovation into a 40-room hotel, while the Parisian (and AD100 !) interior designer India Mahdavi created the furnishings of the minimalist, monastic-style suites. The result is a contemporary boutique property with a touch of nostalgia, nodding to a time when the mansion halls still hosted fanciful dinner parties and soirees. On any given morning, guests can take to the ground-floor eatery to cowork aside city residents while enjoying breakfast spreads and evenings at the rooftop terrace, where sushi is served alongside views of Parque España and the Castilo de Chapultepec.

• Amenities: Ground-floor café and restaurant, rooftop terrace, speakeasy and vinyl room
• Editor’s tip: The property hosts a ground-floor café that serves Kyoto-style coffee and a sultry new speakeasy and vinyl room for after-hours listening sessions.
• Address: Avenida Veracruz, 102 Colonia Condesa, 06700 Mexico City, Mexico

As if London landed in the heart of the Polanco neighborhood, The Alest is singular in its appeal. At the sleek black entryway, bright red tables are set below baby blue pergolas. Beyond, a mirror-lined corridor leads to the lobby, an opulent space featuring a seating area and library. Adjacent is 45 Bar and Restaurant, a half-moon-style bar lined with leather stools and a greenhouse-style restaurant reminiscent of a sunroom from yesteryear, replete with plaid-upholstered seating. It’s in this space where chef Emmanuel Gomez Avila serves up contemporary Mexican fare with a touch of European flair. Up a marble staircase are the 19 rooms, each decked in works by Mexican artists and equipped with Carrara marble bathrooms, Italian-style hardwood floors, and Le Labo amenities. For the best view, guests can book one of the three suites, all offering expansive terraces overlooking the tranquil Eugenio Sue Street.

• Editor’s tip: The property offers complimentary bikes for guests to explore the city.
• Address: 45 Eugenio Sue Polanco IV Sección, Mexico City, CDMX, 11550

Located in the Cuauhtémoc borough, only one block from Paseo de la Reforma Avenue, Volga is a sophisticated boutique property and a destination for the city’s cool kids. Within, the city’s contemporary art movement is on full display at a dedicated art exhibition space and a concept store curated by local tastemaker Sally Gallante. Designed by JSa Architecture, Volga features a brutalist exterior that leads to a contemporary minimalist interior made moody with large-scale lava, stone, brass, and travertine installation by the artist Perla Krauze. Beyond the ground floor courtyard are 50 guest rooms, including 14 suites adorned with Turkish marble and a soothing scent from the perfumery Aromaria. Restaurateur Edo Kobayashi curates Volga’s refined Mediterranean restaurant, Elora, while the rooftop pool bar is more casual and offers small bites and cocktails with sweeping panoramic views of Mexico City. With music as a core artistic focus, Volga hosts a calendar of live performances both on the rooftop and in its underground music room.

• Editor’s tip: Guests should ask about the property’s tucked-away mezcaleria and tasting table.
• Address: Río Volga 105 Cuauhtemoc, Mexico City, 06500

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12 Most Beautiful Towns In New Mexico You Should Visit

• Taos, Tucumcari, and Galisteo are just a few of the most charming and beautiful towns in New Mexico that offer unique experiences and stunning landscapes.
• From outdoor activities and cultural attractions to delicious cuisine and historic sites, these towns have something for everyone to enjoy and explore.
• Whether you're seeking adventure in Cloudcroft, history in Roswell, or a peaceful getaway in Mesilla, these towns in New Mexico are worth visiting for their diverse offerings and small-town charm.

From gorgeous buildings and beautiful mountain communities to quaint towns, New Mexico boasts some of the most breathtaking places in America . Its stunning, diverse landscapes have inspired artists from around the world. Much of New Mexico's unique charm is found in its small towns. These have local restaurants with delicious specialties, attractions that have earned praise from previous travelers, and stunning hotels housed in the state's historic buildings. These are the most beautiful towns in New Mexico that tourists should visit.

UPDATE: 2023/09/03 15:14 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

The Most Beautiful Towns In New Mexico: Part 2

New Mexico's desert landscapes boast unique sceneries that delight explorers from around the country. This updated list features two more places to visit in New Mexico that won't disappoint. With fall and winter on the way, there are plenty of places and things to see throughout New Mexico: The Land of Enchantment!

Related: Everything Worth Doing When Visiting Taos, New Mexico

There is no shortage of fun things to do in Taos . Its museums and independent art galleries are some of the things that make it stand out. San Francisco de Asis Mission Church, one of the most iconic churches and photographed locations in the state, also calls this enchanting town a home. Its position by the Rocky Mountains and Rio Grande Gorge makes it an incredible destination for outdoor lovers.

With an incredible blend of Spanish, Native American, and southwestern influences, Tucumcari’s culture is incredibly adverse. Housing some of the top historic sites in New Mexico , Taos' Historic District is a popular tourist spot, filled with numerous medieval buildings, some dating back to the ‘20s. The town is brimming with stunning hidden gems, which display a unique side of it. It has stunning street art, museums, restaurants, and everything in between.

Boasting some of the best things to do in New Mexico , Galisteo offers unique experiences and attractions, making it one of the most charming towns to explore. Films like Crazy Heart, Silverado, and Thor were filmed in this gorgeous part of New Mexico. This is also one of the best adventure spots in the area, thanks to its beautiful desert scenery. Galisteo Basin Reserve is one of the top places to experience this side of the town. Travelers will find numerous hiking and biking trails to explore.

Related: Where To Find The Best Mountain Biking Trails In The Pioneer Valley

Silver City

Whether looking for entertainment options, history, food, or a unique cultural scene, it is there in Silver City. Its bustling downtown has a lot of gorgeous restaurants, hotels, and colorful shops selling all kinds of items. Some of the museums to explore include the Silver City Museum and Western New Mexico University Museum; these museums offer unique artifacts and exhibits about the South West region of the United States. Outdoorsy travelers can enjoy the city’s adventure spots, like the Gila National Forest, Penny Park, Mimbres River Preserve, and Big Ditch Park.

Located in Guadalupe County, Santa Rosa is one of the most beautiful towns in New Mexico and offers a lot to offer tourists. The city is known for its rugged desert landscape, incredible arts scene, beautiful culture, and fantastic culinary scene, mostly cooked in Southwestern style. It boasts several popular attractions, including Park Lake, Route 66 Auto Museum, and Blue Hole, which make it worth exploring . There is something for everyone in this great spot.

Cloudcroft is nestled on the northern side of Lincoln National Forest, which means it has plenty of outdoor opportunities, including mountain biking, bird watching, hiking, horseback riding, and camping. It is brimming with beautiful restaurants, colorful shops, and unique tourist spots. It offers numerous options for entertainment, including unique events and festivals. This charming mountain village is a perfect getaway for any type of traveler.

Ruidoso is nestled among the Sierra Blanca range of the Rocky Mountains on the southeast side of New Mexico. It is a popular destination that entices 1.9 million vacationers , ranging from history buffs to nature lovers and everyone in between. There are plenty of outdoor activities, including biking, fishing, and hiking. History lovers would definitely love spending time in the town's incredible museums, like the Hubbard Museum of the American West. Other places to check out include Fort Stanton, Grindstone Lake, Monjeau Lookout, and Adventure Mountain.

Roswell is famous for appearing in several documentaries, TV shows, and plenty of adventure opportunities. One can explore one of its many gorgeous farmlands, go hiking in the nearby Wildlife Refuge, or eat something tasty from its local restaurants. There are several art centers, museums, and a research center. There are numerous tours that vacationers can use to explore some of the best spots in the town. A good number of events, festivals, and concerts are held here from time to time.

Related: Go UFO Hunting In Roswell, New Mexico, And Then Check Out Their UFO Museum

Red River is a perfect destination for travelers looking for outdoor adventures, and one can go camping, fishing, hiking, OHV-ing, hunting, rafting, horseback riding, and biking. Several trails suit all kinds of travelers. Some strenuous hikes require effort and sweat to get through, but they get to some of the most breathtaking sights in the town. In winter, this gorgeous resort town offers incredible skiing and snowboarding opportunities, thanks to the surrounding sloping mountains. No matter the season tourists choose to come here, they’ll always find something interesting to do.

Vacationers enjoy traveling to small towns to escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities, but the long drives and whatever it takes to get there are off-putting to some. Located just outside of Santa Fe, this town has a long, fascinating history, and vacationers can learn some of it at one of its well-preserved sites, El Santuario de Chimayo. It is known for being one of the biggest farmlands in the southwestern and boasts a rich culture dating back thousands of years.

Aztec is a delightful community in northwestern New Mexico, a short drive from the Colorado border. This modest town is laden with some of the top historical sites in New Mexico , thanks to a legacy extending beyond the 19th century. An excellent example is the Aztec Ruins National Monument, which can be traced back to the 12th century. More hidden gems can be uncovered in its historic downtown, which impresses with awesome architectural styles. Also, explorers will want to tour the Aztec Arxhes, featuring over 300 natural sandstones that never fail to leave first-timers in awe.

Mesilla is a lovely locale with the perfect mix of rich historical heritage and small-town charm. Bordering Las Cruces to the west, it offers an excellent getaway from the state's third-biggest city and rewards adventurers with laid-back activities. History buffs should plan to visit Mesilla Plaza, the scenic town square - designated National Historic Landmark. Meanwhile, culture aficionados will gravitate towards the annual Diez y Seis de Septiembre Fiestas and Cinco de Mayo, which offer an immersive experience of the area's rich Mexican culture.