The Ultimate Mexico City Travel Guide
Mexico City, a metropolis of vibrant hues and rich cultural tapestry, is a destination that promises to tantalize the senses and ignite the imagination. The bustling streets, a symphony of honking cars and chatter, pulse with an energy that is both invigorating and alluring.
The city's history, dating back to the ancient Aztec civilization, imbues every corner with a sense of mystery and grandeur. The Centro Histórico, or Historic Center, is a veritable treasure trove of architectural marvels, from the grandiose Templo Mayor to the ornate Metropolitan Cathedral.
The museums of Mexico City are a true feast for the eyes, showcasing an array of art, artifacts and cultural treasures from Mexico's rich past and present. The National Museum of Anthropology and the Museum of Modern Art are but a few of the many institutions that offer an enlightening and inspiring glimpse into the country's history and artistic heritage.
The culinary scene in Mexico City is a true delight, with a cornucopia of local specialties and international flavors to savor. The succulent tacos al pastor, the comforting tamales, and the rich and complex mole are just a few of the many dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
The nightlife in Mexico City is a vibrant and pulsating affair, with a plethora of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. From casual drinks with friends to wild and exuberant parties, the city promises to keep you entertained long into the night.
Shopping in Mexico City is also an experience to relish, with traditional markets selling crafts, textiles, and souvenirs, as well as luxury boutiques and designer shops. The city is also home to a wide variety of international and local brands, as well as many bars and restaurants.
Mexico City, with its enchanting blend of history, culture, and energy, is a destination that promises to bewitch and beguile all who have the good fortune to visit.
Elevation
Mexico City, also known as Ciudad de México (CDMX), is situated at an elevation of 2,240 meters (7,350 feet) above sea level. The city is located in the Valley of Mexico, which is a high-altitude basin surrounded by mountains. This high elevation can cause some people to experience altitude sickness, especially if they are not acclimatized to the altitude. It's also important to note that the city's high altitude can make the weather cooler than in other parts of Mexico.
Time zone
Mexico City, also known as CDMX, is in the Central Standard Time (CST) time zone. This time zone is 6 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-6).
The time difference between Mexico City (CDMX) and San Francisco, California is 2 hours. When it is 12:00 PM (noon) in San Francisco, it is 2:00 PM (14:00) in Mexico City.
The time difference between Mexico City (CDMX) and New York City, New York is 1 hour. When it is 12:00 PM (noon) in New York City, it is 1:00 PM (13:00) in Mexico City.
It's worth noting that Mexico does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so Mexico City's time does not change during the summer months. However, some neighboring countries such as the United States and Canada do observe Daylight Saving Time, so it's important to take note of the time difference if you are traveling to or from those countries. For example, during Daylight Saving Time, the difference between Mexico City and San Francisco or New York City would be 1 hour.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Mexico City (CDMX) largely depends on personal preference and what you are looking to do while in the city. However, the best time to visit Mexico City is typically between December and April, when the weather is milder and there's less chance of rain. These months also fall during the city's peak tourist season, so you can expect more crowds and higher prices.
The months of May to November can be considered as the rainy season, also known as "el invierno" (the winter) by locals. However, it's worth noting that while it may rain more frequently during these months, the city still experiences plenty of sunny days and the temperature remains warm.
The months of June to October are considered the off-season, and you can expect to find lower prices on accommodation and flights, as well as fewer crowds. Additionally, this period is also great for visiting the city if you're looking for traditional festivals and cultural events.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Mexico City is a matter of personal preference, and you can have a great time in the city at any time of the year.
City Structure
Mexico City is divided into 16 delegaciones (boroughs) and one federal district (Distrito Federal), which is the seat of the federal government. Each borough is governed by a head of government, who is appointed by the city's mayor. The boroughs are further divided into colonias (neighborhoods), which are the smallest administrative division in the city.
Each borough has its own government, budget, and services, such as public transportation, schools, and hospitals. They also have their own police force, known as the "Ministerial Police," which is separate from the Federal Police and the Mexican Army.
The boroughs are:
Álvaro Obregón
Azcapotzalco
Benito Juárez
Coyoacán
Cuajimalpa de Morelos
Cuauhtémoc
Gustavo A. Madero
Iztacalco
Iztapalapa
Magdalena Contreras
Miguel Hidalgo
Milpa Alta
Tláhuac
Tlalpan
Venustiano Carranza
Xochimilco
Each borough has its own characteristics, for example, Coyoacán is known for its colonial architecture, Xochimilco for its canals and floating gardens, Iztapalapa for being one of the most populous areas in the city and Benito Juarez for hosting some of the most important touristic areas like the Zócalo and the Alameda Central Park.
Currency
The currency of Mexico City is the Mexican Peso (MXN). It is the official currency of Mexico and is used throughout the country, including Mexico City. Banknotes are available in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 pesos, and coins are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20 and 50 centavos, and 1, 2, 5 and 10 pesos.
It's worth noting that US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas and at some businesses in Mexico City. However, the exchange rate may not be as favorable as when exchanging to pesos, and it's always a good idea to have some pesos on hand, as not all places will accept dollars.
Most of Mexico, Mexico City included, largely runs on cash. But establishments often accept debit and credit cards.
As of early 2023, the exchange rate of the Mexican Peso (MXN) to the United States Dollar (USD) was 20:1, meaning every dollar is the equivalent of 20 pesos.
Language
The official language of Mexico City (CDMX) is Spanish. Spanish is widely spoken by the population, and it is the primary language used in government, education, and most forms of communication.
It's worth noting that Mexico City is a cosmopolitan city, so you may also encounter many other languages in the city, especially in tourist areas and among expat communities. English is widely spoken among the educated population, and it is also taught as a second language in schools. Additionally, you may also encounter speakers of indigenous languages, as well as other languages such as French, German and Italian.
Calling Code
The calling code for Mexico City, also known as CDMX, is +52.
How to get around
Mexico City has a variety of options for getting around, including trains, buses, taxis, and ride services.
Trains: The metro system in Mexico City is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to get around. The metro has 12 lines and serves 195 stations, making it easy to reach most destinations in the city. The train system is also integrated with the bus system, so you can use the same ticket to transfer between the two.
Buses: The city's bus system is extensive and offers a variety of options, including traditional bus routes, “microbuses”, and “peseros” which are shared taxis. They are convenient and relatively cheap, but can get quite crowded during peak hours.
Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Mexico City and are generally considered safe. They can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands. You can also use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Cabify, which can be less expensive than traditional taxis.
Ride Services: Uber and Cabify are widely available in Mexico City and are a convenient way to get around. They offer a variety of ride options, from budget-friendly to luxury, and can be booked through the app. They are also a safe option.
It's important to note that traffic can be heavy in Mexico City, so it's a good idea to allow extra time for travel and to plan your routes in advance. Public transportation is a good way to avoid traffic and save money.
Best Restaurants
Mexico City is known for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene, and you'll find a wide variety of delicious food options in the city. Some popular types of cuisine in CDMX include traditional Mexican dishes, modern Mexican fusion, international cuisine, and street food. Some of the most famous restaurants in the city include:
Pujol: Known for its modern and innovative take on traditional Mexican cuisine.
Quintonil: Known for its use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and its contemporary take on Mexican food.
El Cardenal: Known for its traditional Mexican cuisine and its extensive menu of traditional Mexican dishes.
Contramar: Known for its fresh seafood dishes and its lively atmosphere.
Casa Enrique: Known for its traditional Mexican food and casual atmosphere.
Casa de los Azulejos: Known for its traditional Mexican cuisine, it's housed in a beautiful building with an iconic blue tile facade.
Rosetta: Known for its Italian cuisine and its elegant atmosphere.
Maximo Bistrot: Known for its modern Mexican cuisine and its chic atmosphere.
Merotoro: Known for its contemporary Mexican seafood dishes and its lively atmosphere
Azul Histórico: Known for its traditional Mexican food and its historic setting in a 16th-century building.
Nicos: Known for its traditional Mexican food and its cozy atmosphere.
Lalo! : Known for its contemporary Mexican cuisine and its stylish atmosphere.
El Bajio: Known for its traditional Mexican food and its casual atmosphere.
Los Danzantes: Known for its traditional Mexican food and its rustic atmosphere.
Los Colorines: Known for its traditional Mexican food and its colorful atmosphere.
El Hidalguense: Known for its traditional Mexican food and its rustic atmosphere.
El Vilsito: Known for its street food and its lively atmosphere.
El Pescadito: Known for its seafood dishes and its laid-back atmosphere.
El Huequito: Known for its street food and its lively atmosphere.
El Parnita: Known for its contemporary Mexican cuisine and its laid-back atmosphere.
What to eat?
Some of the unique and traditional cuisines and specialties of CDMX include:
Street Food: CDMX is famous for its street food, which ranges from tacos and tamales to elotes (corn on the cob) and esquites (corn in a cup). You can find street food vendors all over the city, and it's a great way to try a variety of traditional Mexican dishes.
Mexican Regional Cuisine: CDMX is a melting pot of different cultures and regions, so you can find a wide variety of Mexican regional cuisines in the city. Some popular regional cuisines include Oaxacan, Yucatecan, and Veracruzana.
Mole: A traditional sauce made with a variety of spices and chilies, mole is a staple of Mexican cuisine and can be found in many restaurants in CDMX.
Taqueria: CDMX is home to some of the best taquerias in Mexico, serving delicious and authentic tacos made with a variety of meats, such as pastor (spit-roasted pork), carnitas (braised pork), and barbacoa (barbecue).
Mexican sweets: CDMX's sweets are diverse and rich in tradition, you can find a variety of traditional sweets like "ate", "cajeta", "churros" etc.
Mezcal: This traditional Mexican spirit, made from the agave plant, is becoming increasingly popular in CDMX, with many bars and restaurants offering a wide selection of mezcals.
Mexican Coffee: CDMX have a variety of coffee roasters that offer Mexican coffee beans, which are known for their unique and rich flavor.
Things to Do
There are many things to do in Mexico City (CDMX), as it is a vibrant and culturally rich city with a wide variety of activities to suit all interests. Here are a few examples of popular things to do in CDMX:
Visit ancient Aztec ruins: Mexico City was built on the ruins of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, and you can still see the remains of the ancient city at the Templo Mayor and the Museo del Templo Mayor.
Explore the historic center: The historic center of Mexico City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the Cathedral, the National Palace, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes.
Wander through the many museums: CDMX is home to many world-class museums, such as the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Frida Kahlo Museum.
Take in some live music: Mexico City is known for its vibrant music scene, and you'll find many venues around the city showcasing traditional Mexican music as well as indie and alternative bands.
Enjoy the street food: Mexico City is famous for its street food, and you'll find many street vendors selling delicious tacos, tortas, and other traditional Mexican dishes.
Take a walk in one of the many parks: Mexico City has many large and beautiful parks, such as Chapultepec Park and Alameda Park, where you can relax and enjoy the greenery.
Visit the Xochimilco: This neighborhood is known for its colorful boats called "trajineras" which take you through the canals of a ancient Aztec agricultural system, here you can also enjoy traditional mariachi music, food and drinks.
Go Shopping: Mexico City has a vibrant shopping scene, with many markets, boutiques, and department stores where you can buy traditional Mexican crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Best Shopping
Mexico City (CDMX) is a great place to shop, with a wide variety of options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are a few examples of popular places to shop in CDMX:
Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela: This market is known for its traditional Mexican crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. You'll find a wide variety of items for sale, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, and more.
Mercado de San Juan: This is a traditional market for food but also have a variety of handicrafts, books, clothing, and other household items.
Zona Rosa: This is a neighborhood known for its trendy boutiques, shops, and restaurants. You'll find a wide variety of international and local brands here, as well as many bars and restaurants.
Centro Histórico: This is the historic center of Mexico City and is home to many of the city's most iconic landmarks. You'll also find many shops and markets selling traditional Mexican crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Polanco: This is an upscale neighborhood known for its designer shops, luxury boutiques, and high-end restaurants. You'll find many international and local brands here, as well as many bars and restaurants.
Mercado de Artesanías El Parián: This is a traditional market selling a wide variety of crafts, textiles, souvenirs and more.
Mercado de Medellín: This is a traditional market known for its clothing and textiles, where you can find traditional Mexican garments such as huipiles and rebozos.
Neighborhood Guide
Mexico City is made up of many neighborhoods, or colonias, each with its own unique character and history. Here are a few of the most popular neighborhoods in the city:
Roma: Known for its Art Nouveau architecture, bohemian atmosphere, and trendy restaurants and bars, Roma is a popular neighborhood for young professionals and expats.
Condesa: Adjacent to Roma, this neighborhood is also known for its Art Nouveau architecture and trendy atmosphere. It's also home to many parks and green spaces, making it a popular area for families.
La Reforma: This neighborhood is home to many of Mexico City's most iconic buildings and landmarks, including the Angel of Independence monument and the Chapultepec Castle. It's also a popular area for shopping and dining.
Polanco: This upscale neighborhood is home to many luxury shops and high-end restaurants. It's also a popular area for embassies and consulates.
Centro Histórico: This neighborhood, also known as the Historic Center, is the heart of Mexico City and home to many of the city's most famous landmarks, including the Zócalo, the main square, and the Cathedral. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Coyoacán: Known for its colonial architecture and bohemian atmosphere, Coyoacán is a popular area for tourists. It's also home to the Frida Kahlo Museum.
Santa Fe: This neighborhood is known for its modern architecture and high-end shopping centers.
Juarez: This neighborhood is located in the heart of the city and is home to many of the city's most iconic buildings and landmarks, including the Alameda Central park. It's also a popular area for shopping and dining.
San Angel: This neighborhood is located in the south of the city and is known for its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. It's also home to many art galleries, antique shops, and the San Angel Inn, a famous restaurant. It's also a popular area for tourists and locals looking for a more traditional and tranquil atmosphere.
La Latina: This neighborhood is located in the heart of the city, known for its colonial architecture and lively atmosphere. It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with many restaurants and bars, as well as the famous market, La Merced.
Narvarte: This neighborhood is located in the south-west of the city and is known for its peaceful atmosphere and family-friendly atmosphere. it is also known for its well-maintained parks and gardens, and it's a popular spot for locals to take a stroll and enjoy the outdoors.
These are just a few examples, but there are many other neighborhoods in Mexico City worth exploring, each with its own unique character and charm.
Weather
The weather in Mexico City can vary depending on the month, but generally, it is warm to hot year-round. The city has a subtropical highland climate, with temperatures that can range from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F).
January and February:
Average high temperature: 20°C (68°F)
Average low temperature: 8°C (46°F)
March and April:
Average high temperature: 24°C (75°F)
Average low temperature: 12°C (54°F)
May through October:
Average high temperature: 27°C (81°F)
Average low temperature: 15°C (59°F)
November and December:
Average high temperature: 22°C (72°F)
Average low temperature: 10°C (50°F)
Overall, Mexico City has a mild to warm temperatures throughout the year with occasional rain in the spring and summer months, making it a good year-round destination for tourists.
