Why go to Mexico City
Built on the ruins of Tenochtitlan, Mexico City is one of the world's great cultural capitals: more museums than almost any city on earth, a thriving art scene, and a street-food culture to rival anywhere.
Best time to visit Mexico City
October to April is the dry season, with sunny days and cool evenings. Rain falls most afternoons from June to September, but mornings are often clear. Día de Muertos (1–2 November) is extraordinary.
Top things to see
Museo Nacional de Antropología
The world's finest collection of pre-Hispanic art.
Zócalo and Templo Mayor
The Aztec temple beside the cathedral.
Teotihuacán
Climb the Pyramid of the Sun; go early.
Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul)
Book well in advance.
Chapultepec Park and Castle
A vast park with museums and views.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
Art Deco interiors and Rivera murals.
Things to do in Mexico City
- Ride a trajinera through the canals of Xochimilco
- Watch lucha libre at Arena México
- Hot-air balloon over Teotihuacán at dawn
- Cycle Paseo de la Reforma on a car-free Sunday
- Take a mezcal tasting in Roma
Local experiences
- Eat tacos al pastor at a late-night taquería
- Try a tamal and atole from a morning street cart
- Wander the Sunday market in San Ángel
- Shop La Merced or Mercado de Coyoacán
Where to eat in Mexico City
Dishes to try: tacos al pastor, chilaquiles, tamales, mole, pozole, churros.
ContramarSeafood
Tuna tostadas and pescado a la talla at a long, lively lunch.
PujolFine dining
Enrique Olvera's celebrated Mexican cooking.
El HuequitoTacos
Al pastor specialists since 1959.
Taquería Los CocuyosTacos
A late-night Centro classic.
Where to stay in Mexico City
Four Seasons Hotel Mexico CityLuxury
Courtyard hotel on Paseo de la Reforma.
Condesa DFBoutique
Design hotel with a rooftop in Condesa.
Hotel CarlotaBoutique
Modernist hotel with a pool in Juárez.
Best areas to stay
Roma and Condesa
Tree-lined, walkable, full of restaurants.
Centro Histórico
Monuments and history.
Polanco
Upscale dining and museums.
Coyoacán
Bohemian, calm and colourful.
4 days in Mexico City
Day 1: Centro Histórico
Day 2: Chapultepec
Day 3: Teotihuacán
Day 4: Coyoacán and Xochimilco
See the full day-by-day itinerary
Festivals and events
Semana SantaMarch or April
Holy Week processions, especially in Iztapalapa.
Independence Day15–16 September
El Grito in the Zócalo and a military parade.
Día de Muertos1–2 November
Altars, marigolds and a grand parade.
Getting around
The metro is extremely cheap but crowded at rush hour. Uber and DiDi are safe and affordable. Roma, Condesa and Polanco are pleasant to walk. The city sits at 2,240 m, so take the first day easy.
Practical information
- Plug types
- A, B (guide)
- Voltage
- 127 V
- Emergency
- 911
- Tap water
- Drink bottled or filtered water
Tipping: 10–15% in restaurants. See our tipping guide.
Entry requirements depend on your nationality; check your government's travel advice and the destination's official immigration site before booking.
How much does it cost?
Approximate US dollar figures covering accommodation, food, local transport and sights; flights excluded.
Good to know
- Drink bottled or filtered water
- Use ride-hailing rather than street taxis at night
- Many museums close on Mondays
- Carry small change for street food and markets
Mexico City travel FAQ
What is the best time to visit Mexico City?
The best months are usually Oct–Apr. October to April is the dry season, with sunny days and cool evenings. Rain falls most afternoons from June to September, but mornings are often clear. Día de Muertos (1–2 November) is extraordinary.
How many days do you need in Mexico City?
Plan on 4–5 days to see the highlights at a comfortable pace.
What currency is used in Mexico City?
The local currency is the Mexican peso (MXN). Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carry some cash for markets and small vendors.
How much does a trip to Mexico City cost per day?
Roughly US$50 per person per day on a budget, US$140 mid-range and US$500 or more for luxury, excluding flights. Prices vary by season.
What food should I try in Mexico City?
Local favourites include tacos al pastor, chilaquiles, tamales, mole, pozole, churros.
What plug adapter do I need for Mexico City?
Mexico City uses plug type A, B at 127 V. Check whether your devices support this voltage.
Restaurants, hotels and prices change. Confirm opening times and book popular places ahead. Last reviewed October 2026.