Mexico City is a vibrant metropolis brimming with culture, history, and delicious cuisine, making it a must-visit destination. Planning your first trip and only have four days to explore? Look no further! While it took us a while to finally make the journey, we found that four days was a good amount of time for a first-time visit. It offers a wonderful balance of sightseeing, dining, and relaxation, ensuring you get a taste of everything without feeling rushed.
Our lists of things we wanted to see were longer than what we were able to fit in four days, however we still felt we had a good balance and left some places to visit for our next trip to Mexico City. I have included what we did and loved as well as the additional places we couldn’t get to as they will give you extra ideas for your trip.
In this blog post, you’ll discover an itinerary designed to maximize your experience in Mexico City. From historical landmarks to bustling markets and excellent food, this plan covers all the essentials. Feel free to adjust the activities to suit your interests and pace, making the trip uniquely yours.
Where to Stay in Mexico City
When visiting Mexico City, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options to suit any budget. We recommend staying in the Condesa or Roma neighborhoods to truly experience life like a local in a vibrant and charming environment. These areas are known for their tree-lined streets, trendy cafes, and boutique shops, offering a perfect blend of comfort and culture.
If you choose to stay in the La Condesa neighborhood, be sure to check out the Andaz Mexico City Condesa. It provides luxury accommodations right in the heart of this vibrant neighborhood. We found the rooms to be elegant and spacious, and the food options excellent. The hotel also has a rooftop bar and pool, as well as a full-time spa and good-sized gym. The only drawback was the hotel’s location, next to one of the busiest streets of the neighborhood (Avenida Insurgentes Sur). However, you could easily avoid it by exploring away from that street.
If you prefer super luxurious accommodations, the Polanco neighborhood is the place to be. Known for its upscale hotels, high-end shopping, and gourmet dining, Polanco provides a lavish experience that caters to those seeking the finer things in life. The Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, and St. Regis are all located in this neighborhood, just steps away from the huge and beautiful Bosque de Chapultepec Park, as well as world-class shopping at the Avenida Presidente Masaryk, considered the “Rodeo Drive” of Mexico City.
❗We don’t recommend staying in the historic center of town. It’s very busy and touristy, and locals often advise that it’s not the safest area in the evenings.
What to do, where to go in Mexico City
Day 1 – Focus on the History of Mexico City
Spending a day in the center of Mexico City provides an insightful journey into the complex history of this vibrant metropolis. There is a lot to see here, so plan to spend the day and choose which points of interest you want to dedicate more time to.
Zocalo, National Palace, and The Metropolitan Cathedral
Begin your exploration at the Zócalo, the city’s main square and one of the largest public plazas in the world. This historic site has been a focal point of Mexican culture and politics since the Aztec era and is surrounded by significant landmarks, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, which houses the office of the President, as well as stunning murals by Diego Rivera.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
Next, head to the Palacio de Bellas Artes, an architectural marvel that hosts exhibitions and performances, highlighting Mexico’s artistic heritage. At the Palacio, you can explore many cultural and artistic treasures within its stunning Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture.
If you are an art lover or appreciator, a visit to this museum is a must. You can marvel at murals by renowned Mexican artists like Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros, as well as enjoy rotating art exhibitions. The murals are breathtaking. The opulent interior, featuring a spectacular stained-glass stage curtain by Tiffany & Co., adds to the grandeur of this iconic venue. The curtain was created in 1911 and depicts the Valley of Mexico with its two great volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, adding to the opulent and grand atmosphere of the venue. You will need to join a guided tour offered by the venue to see the curtain, or you can see a performance and admire it this way.
Palacio Postal
Be sure to stop by the Palacio Postal. It is a stunning example of early 20th-century architecture, blending Gothic, Art Nouveau, and Renaissance Revival styles. This historic post office is renowned for its ornate interior, grand staircase, intricate ironwork, and luxurious details. The architecture is stunning, and no materials were spared for its interiors. Makes one wonder why such an elaborate Postal Office was ever needed in the first place!
Casa de Los Azulejos (The House of Tiles)
The House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos) in Mexico City is a historic building known for its stunning blue and white tile facade. Built in the 18th century, this beautiful mansion showcases a blend of Baroque and Moorish architectural styles and now houses a popular restaurant. You do not need tickets to see it. You can just walk in.
Day 2 in Mexico City
Venture out of town on this second day but keep the focus on history by visiting Teotihuacan. Teotihuacan was one of the largest cities in the ancient world and a major Mesoamerican cultural center. It thrived between the 1st and 7th centuries AD, playing a crucial role in the development of pre-Columbian civilization in the Americas.
Getting to Teotihuacan
Located just over an hour outside of Mexico City (30 miles, about 50 kilometers), Teotihuacan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring some of the most impressive pyramids in Mexico. The best way to visit the site is by joining a guided tour. We highly recommend that you choose one from the many options available online. You can also rent a car or take Uber to get to the pyramids to visit the site on your own. If you choose to visit without a guide, be sure to read on Teotihuacan to truly appreciate the site.
What you will see at Teotihuacan
The site features impressive and well-preserved structures, including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. These pyramids are among the largest in the world, and their construction without modern tools is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Teotihuacanos. Be sure to stop by the Teotihuacan Cultural Museum (Museo de la Cultura Teotihuacana) and see well-preserved archeological finds from the site.
Know before you go
- Arrive Early: The site can get very hot, especially in the afternoon.
- Opening Hours: Teotihuacan is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, with the last entry at 3 pm. Make sure to arrive in time to fully enjoy your visit.
- Pack Essentials: Bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Ticket Purchase: To skip the line for individual tickets, join a group tour. Currently, individual tickets cannot be purchased online, so be prepared to buy them on-site.
- Payment Method: Ensure you have cash on hand to pay for your entrance ticket as credit cards may not be accepted.
- Snacks: Bring your own snacks, as there are no food vendors inside Teotihuacan.
- Comfortable Footwear: Wear very comfortable shoes, as you will be walking extensively throughout the site.
- Museum Access: Your entrance fee includes access to the Museum of Teotihuacan Culture and the Museum of Teotihuacan Murals. Keep your ticket, as you need it for entry into each museum.
- Climbing Restrictions: As of 2024, climbing the pyramids at Teotihuacan is prohibited to protect the structures and preserve them for future generations.
- Duration of Visit: Plan to spend 3 to 4 hours exploring the site, as there is much to see and the distances between pyramids are significant.
- Souvenirs: Bring cash for purchasing souvenirs within the site. While bargaining is common, always do so respectfully.
Visit local artisans and try local drinks and food
Following your visit to Teotihuacan, you can stop and try some local specialties at one of the restaurants in the area. Although it might feel touristy, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Taste Artisanal Drinks 🍹: Sample traditional Mexican beverages such as tequila, mezcal, and pulque, each offering a unique taste of Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
- Purchase Artisanal Souvenirs 🛍️: Browse and buy handcrafted souvenirs, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry, which make for memorable keepsakes or gifts.
- Try Local Protein Specialties 🌮: Savor local delicacies like Chinicuiles (red worms) tacos, a crunchy and nutritious treat that offers a taste of indigenous cuisine.
Our tour included a visit to Tlacaelel,a one-stop artisanal market, tasting room and restaurant. The place felt like a tourist trap; however, we absolutely enjoyed a guided drink tasting, which was super informative, as well as sun-gazing using obsidian tools.
Day 3 in Mexico City
Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum
On day 3, visit one of the iconic museums in Mexico City – the Frida Kahlo Museum, known as “Casa Azul” (The Blue House). It is located in the Coyoacán neighborhood of Mexico City. This vibrant blue house was the birthplace and lifelong home of the iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The museum offers an intimate look into Kahlo’s life, showcasing her personal belongings, artwork, and the environment that inspired much of her work. You will be able to see some of Kahlo’s paintings, sketches, and artifacts, as well as the lush garden she cherished. The museum also includes works by her husband, Diego Rivera, and other Mexican folk art. If you are an art lover, this museum is a must. 🤩
Know before you go
- Tickets: You must purchase your tickets online, as there is no way to purchase them on site.
- Reservations: The museum is extremely popular, so plan ahead. You need more than two weeks ahead of your trip to secure your preferred date and time.
- When to Be There: Get to the house at lease 15 minutes before your reserved time, as there is a line for each time slot.
- No Videos: There is no videotaping inside the museum. You can take pictures without a flashlight.
- Food: There is a small cafe inside where you can grab a drink and snack, as well as spend some extra time in the house.
- Comfort: Wear comfortable shoes, as you will do a bit of walking.
- Crowds: Be prepared, the museum is always crowded.
Spend time in Coyoacan
Before or after your visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum, take some time to explore and enjoy the charming Coyoacán neighborhood. This area showcases a slower pace of life and provides a different way to appreciate Mexico City. Here are a few ideas on what to do:
- Plaza Jardín Hidalgo and Fuente de los Coyotes🌳: Relax in the heart of Coyoacán at these beautiful plazas, where you can enjoy the vibrant local atmosphere, see beautiful fountains or simply people-watch.
- Murals🎨: Take a leisurely walk and admire the stunning murals that adorn the neighborhood, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.
- Leon Trotsky House Museum🏠: Visit the museum dedicated to Leon Trotsky, providing a fascinating glimpse into a different aspect of Mexico’s history.
- Coffee☕: Savor an exceptional cup of coffee at Café Avellaneda (Higuera 40-A, La Concepción, Coyoacán), known for its focus on single-origin coffees (try Jiribilla coffee) and homemade pastries.
- El Histórico Coyoacán🌿: Stroll through this beautiful park and enjoy its lush greenery and tranquil ambiance.
Day 4 in Mexico City
Take a cooking class
A fantastic way to immerse yourself in a culture is through its food. We highly recommend taking a cooking class to learn authentic techniques for preparing classic Mexican dishes. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience, which included:
- A visit to a local produce market and trying indigenous foods (roasted crickets anyone?😋)
- A visit to a local Tortilleria to see how fresh tortillas are made daily
- Hands-on cooking of several traditional dishes from scratch
- Learning about traditional ingredients and cooking methods
- Savoring the delicious food we created
We chose the Aura Cocina Mexicana cooking school. We highly recommend you give it a try. Be sure to book your spot ahead of time, as space is limited to 8 participants per class. 🤩
Explore the Polanco neighborhood
Polanco is one of Mexico City’s most upscale and cosmopolitan neighborhoods, renowned for its cultural diversity, luxury shopping, gourmet dining, and vibrant nightlife. Here are a few of the things you can see and do in Polanco:
- Avenida Presidente Masaryk: Explore high-end boutiques and designer stores.
- Museo Soumaya: Admire unique architecture and extensive art collections.
- Museo Jumex: Discover contemporary art exhibitions.
- Parque Lincoln: Enjoy the scenic park with sculptures and a reflecting pool.
- Anthropology Museum: Delve into Mexico’s ancient civilizations.
- Dining and Nightlife: Savor top restaurants like Pujol and Quintonil, and enjoy vibrant bars and clubs.
- Chapultepec Park: Explore this huge and beautiful city park which houses Chapultepec Castle, a zoo, gardens, and museums.
There is so much to see and do in Polanco that you may find yourself visiting multiple times during your trip to Mexico City.
Where to drink and eat in Mexico City
Mexican food needs no introduction, and Mexico City is a food lover’s paradise, with options for every budget. Whether you’re craving the endless variety of street food or looking to dine at some of the world’s best restaurants, there’s plenty to choose from. Here are our top picks from all that we tried and loved, plus a few places that are still on our list for next time. 😊
Bakeries and cafes
- Pasteleria Ideal – Open since 1927, this bakery is renowned for its amazing pastries and desserts.
- Cafe Avellaneda – A small, highly recommended café in the Coyoacán neighborhood, serving single-origin coffees and homemade pastries. Don’t miss a cup of their Jiribilla coffee 😋.
- Churrería El Moro – With multiple locations, this spot is famous for its unbelievable churros and hot chocolate 😋. We visited their Condesa and Polanco locations and loved both! Open since 1935.
- Camino a Comala – A specialty coffee bar offering Mexican coffees from small producers. Make sure to try the Geisha coffee—we even took some home because it was that good! 😋
- Panaderia Rosetta – This bakery has multiple locations. Although we couldn’t visit, it was definitely on our list.
- Casa 1900 Pan y Cafe – Known for great pastries and amazing ice creams. Be sure to try the mamey ice cream 😋.
- Café Tormenta – A spot we didn’t get to try but came highly recommended by locals and foodies. Make sure to sample the Oleo coffee brew.
Restaurants
- Azul – Multiple locations; we tried the Condesa location, and it was amazing! The quality of the food, ambiance, and service were top notch. If you happen to visit during spring, be sure to try their menu, featuring a truly Mexican specialty – Huitlacoche mushrooms. 😋Amazing!
- Em Roma Norte – Amazing restaurant by chef Lucho Martinez awarded one Michelin star in 2024. Everything about this restaurant was outstanding! Try the tasting menu to truly experience the chef’s mastery! 😋
- Pujol – A two Michelin star restaurant (awarded in 2024) by chef Enrique Olvera. Unfortunately, we were unable to secure a reservation. Plan, plan, plan ahead of your trip as this one is hard to book.
- Quintonil – Another two star Michelin restaurant (awarded in 2024) by chef Jorge Vallejo. We wanted to try this restaurant but couldn’t get a reservation. Plan way ahead of your trip to be able to secure the date and time of your choice.
- Maizajo – A restaurant by chef Santiago Muñoz focused on preserving the classic tortilla making techniques. We really wanted to try but simply ran out of time on this trip. Hoping to go back next time!
Bars
- Ley Zanahoria Speakeasy Bar – A hidden gem in the Polanco neighborhood of Mexico City. Excellent atmosphere, drinks and snacks. Get the secret phrase from the La Polanqueña restaurant below the bar.
- Baltra – A great bar in the Condesa neighborhood. Everything about it was perfect. The drinks were creative and excellent, and the atmosphere and service were top notch. Reservations are a must, as the line to get in without one is very long.
- Gin Gin Condesa – A super fun and accessible bar with multiple locations. We stopped by the location in Condesa and very much enjoyed it. The drinks were classic with a twist, and the service was attentive. We didn’t try the food, but this bar had a full restaurant menu.
- Nive 40 Skybar – A sky bar in the Torre Latinoamericana that is not very well known, as most people buy tickets to visit the Tower and take in the views. However, for the price of a drink, you can enjoy the views without needing tickets or waiting in line.
- Cava de BO – We didn’t visit this bar in Condesa but walked by it a few times and it seemed super cool. Keeping it on our list for next time.
- 686 Bar – Located on top of the Michelin star Em Roma Norte restaurant, this bar is also the creation of chef Lucho Martinez. The atmosphere and food are top notch. Be sure to grab a reservation to guarantee your desired date and time.
- Loup Bar – We ran out of time to try this bar, which was also on our list, but hope to return to soon.
What we loved about Mexico City
- A very, very vibrant city – the colors, movement of people, and availability of things to see and do was amazing.
- Rich and complex history that is all around just about anywhere you go.
- Excellent museums, and so many of them that everyone will be able to enjoy based on personal interests.
- The parks – all of them! So lush, green and well maintained. We absolutely loved taking walks and enjoying peaceful moments in the middle of bustling neighborhoods.
- The weather – super comfortable temperatures during the spring and before rainy season; we visited at the end of May.
- The food and bar scene – so many excellent restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops and bars!
- The people – everyone was so nice and friendly, regardless of whether they spoke English or not!
A few things we didn’t like about Mexico City
- The city felt a bit dirty. There are many food stalls on just about every street corner and people are eating everywhere, so naturally there is garbage around.
- The metro was super convenient but so overcrowded. We didn’t take a bus, however, as they too looked very crowded, especially during peak hours.
- The traffic was bad. It is a huge city and moving that many people certainly comes with overcrowded streets as well.
- People asking for tips everywhere, especially at the touristy places (e.g., need to use the restrooms, there is a person to hand you toilet paper for a tip).
- The air pollution – best seen while landing on a clear day, but also visible every day as soon as the sun comes out.
What to bring
- a hat is an absolute must. You can buy one in the city, as there are many vendors who sell hats, but having one is a must. The city elevation alone makes it very easy to sunburn.
- sunscreen is a must. We love this one.
- loose clothing, as it gets hot during the day and air-conditioning is not widely available (e.g., there is no air-conditioning in the metro).
- comfortable shoes because you will do a lot of walking. One pair of comfortable sneakers and a pair of sandals.
- an umbrella. We like this one for travel, but Amazon has many reasonably priced options.
- Depending on the time of the year you visit Mexico City, you will likely need some warmer clothes. A sweater will do during the spring and summer months; however, you may need something warmer during the fall and winter months.
In closing, we enjoyed our time in Mexico City and would love to come back and explore what we couldn’t on our first trip.
[All pictures taken by the Styled Traveler]
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