The Ultimate Mexico City Travel Guide: Where to Eat, Stay, and Play

My first trip to Mexico City was back in 2016, the year the NY Times named it the number one destination in their iconic “52 Places to Go” list. Three trips later, I’m still thinking back to the city that won me over. When it comes to visiting, the endless incredible restaurants in Mexico City, charming neighborhoods, and iconic sights are just a few highlights.

Somewhere between walking the lush streets of Condesa and crushing down al pastor tacos at a hole-in-the-wall stand was when I knew. Mexico City is an absolute playground for those who want to dive into one of the best culinary destinations in North America.  

Mexico City has become a cultural capital, a hotbed for design, architecture, and cuisine. Every turn brings something new, whether a local artisan in the Condesa showcasing their forward-thinking style in design or perhaps a small coffee shop creating a space where locals pour in and out of.

Each neighborhood brings its special qualities. Tall skyscrapers shaped like legos stacked tower over the Centro Histórico, whereas in the Roma the streets are lined by colonial historic buildings painted with lush greenery. Rooted in old tradition and marked by innovative design, Mexico City is truly the city that has it all.

Today, Mexico City is a personal favorite destination of mine and one that I’ve returned to multiple times. Eating my way through the city is one of my favorite ways to experience it, and I love that you can have a diverse experience, from dining at Michelin-star restaurants to taco stands, that both blend beautifully.

Amidst it all, the roots that make the city so special are still there. Things made from hand, with time and care like those traditional Mexican corn tortillas under a bed of steaming al pastor. It’s a beautiful contrast. An invitation to experience the tradition that has always made Mexico City a rich cultural experience and the creativity of the city today.

Ready to start planning? Here’s the ultimate Mexico City travel guide, with a special focus on where to eat.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Mexico City:

Hotels

1. Casa Polanco, for the best luxury hotel
2. Las Alcobas, for the best Polanco hotel
3. St. Regis Mexico City, for the best Reforma hotel
4. La Valise, for the best design hotel
5. Hotel Carlota, for the best budget-friendly hotel

Airbnbs

1. 2 Bedroom Modern Stay in Condesa with Outdoor Space, for the best relaxed base amid parks, cafés, and nightlife
2. 2 Bedroom Bright Condo with Terrace in Roma Norte, for the best indoor-outdoor living in a leafy, walkable neighborhood
3. 2 Bedroom Stylish Loft with Private Balcony in Juárez, for the best contemporary design and central access to culture and dining
4. 3 Bedroom Spacious Home with Rooftop Terrace, for the best gathering spot with skyline views and outdoor lounging
5. 1 Bedroom Cozy Studio in La Roma, for the best compact, stylish stay steps from great restaurants and bars

Things to Do

• Hop on a Food and Market Food Tour
  • Small-Group Historic Center Food Tour (5 hrs)
  • Small-Group Colonia Roma Food Tour (4 hrs)
  • Polanco Food Tour: The Bestselling Private Tour (3 hrs)
  • Small-Group Secret Food Tours Mexico City (3 hrs)
• Visit Frida Kahlo’s Casa
• Visit the Museo Nacional de Anthropología
• Hot Air Balloon Flight with Breakfast Cave and Pyramids Tour
• Take a Day Trip to Tolantongo Hot Springs
• Take a Day Trip to Xochimilco

Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico City, don’t miss my Mexico City itinerary, guides to where to stay and best restaurants, and this post on everything you need to know for renting a car in Mexico.

Beyond Mexico City, there are several cities well worth exploring. Guadalajara offers a more regionally focused experience centered around food, art, and Jalisco’s cultural identity, while San Miguel de Allende is ideal for travelers looking to slow the pace with colonial architecture, galleries, and a walkable historic core. Oaxaca stands out for travelers drawn to markets, mezcal, and a deeply rooted food culture.

The Ultimate Mexico City Travel Guide

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What to Know Before You Visit Mexico City

Transportation in Mexico City

Uber is your best friend in Mexico City and is countlessly rated as the safest. On arrival, I’d recommend a pre-booked transfer on Mozio if you don’t want to hail a cab. There is public transportation available, I’ve heard that the local Mexico City metro does run well, but to avoid late night hours.

A Quick Note on Uber at the Airport: There was a mixed experience of trying to get an Uber at the airport, and it didn’t work, so my cousin ended up in a cab even though Uber’s website says they pick up at the airport.

Currency and Money in Mexico City

The Mexican Peso is the local currency. You’ll need cash for smaller food stands and leaving some tips at restaurants. I recommend always withdrawing cash out at a local bank when possible.

Travel Tip: Do not withdraw money at Santander Banks. We ran into multiple issues where we’d punch in the information, select the amount and it would not spit out the money, only to charge our ATM’s.

Traffic in Mexico City

It’s notorious with CDMX. Over 20 million people live in the city, so be prepared to sit in traffic. We did 5 miles in an hour one day. Here are my tips for avoiding traffic: first, avoid getting in the car at major rush hour times (7-8 am and 4-6:30 pm). It’s best to plan and either get somewhere early or stay in one neighborhood. Even at night, be sure to check the maps to get an idea of how long it will take. Sometimes walking is faster — we did this once or twice to make a reservation.

Get Cellular Data

It’s worth every penny to have a functioning cellphone. You’ll need it for Uber specifically. Verizon offers a $ 5-a-day travel pass in Canada/Mexico and it works great. T-Mobile has free international with some programs but I’ve found consistently it doesn’t work well in Mexico. Alternatively, I would get an E-Sim with Holafly.

Reserve Restaurants in Advance

The top restaurants all book out months in advance. There are about 10 restaurants that seem to be on every traveler’s list and for good reason, making reservations in demand. We made ours almost two months ahead, though you could snag some seats around one to two weeks before. For more on where to eat in Mexico City, read my guide to the best restaurants in Mexico City.

Safety and Precautions

Yes, Mexico City has crime, but similar to any other major city like NYC and SF. Pickpocketing can happen, so keep an eye on your bag, and best to keep it in front. There are certain neighborhoods of Mexico City you want to stay clear of, this list does a great job of sharing why. The major areas of which I reference in this guide are places I felt completely safe and recommend. At all times, common sense should be practiced.

Consider Travel Insurance

It’s a good idea to have travel insurance in case something goes wrong. I personally trust World Nomads.

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Where to Stay in Mexico City

Mexico City has no shortage of incredible accommodation options to fit every size, style, and price point. Since the city is a design hub, you can expect to find aesthetic options that suit your preferences no matter which neighborhood or hotel type you choose. Here are a few of my favorites from the trips to CMDX (see my complete list of hotel recommendations):

• Las Alcobas ($$$, Polanco) — Las Alcobas’ location in the heart of the chic Polanco neighborhood gives access to museums and top restaurants. The boutique luxury hotel has recently been renovated and I love the modern design they went with in the rooms. This hotel is an intimate stay and I adore the special touches around in-room dining (a must for breakfast!) and turndown service. By the time you leave, you feel like you’re family. The hotel features a wonderful restaurant downstairs called Anatol which you’ll want to try at least once for either lunch or dinner. There is also a spa and gym available.
• St. Regis Mexico City ($$$, Reforma) — The St. Regis Mexico City is a luxury hotel centrally located in districts like La Condesa and Roma. As a larger hotel, it has multiple dining options, a pool with city views on the 15th floor, and a large spa. I loved the classic luxury in the suite I stayed in that also came with their signature butler service (awesome perk!). The rooms are comfortable and well-designed. The St. Regis hotels are known for their “signature rituals” like the Bloody Mary cocktail where each hotel does its take. Be sure to visit King Cole Bar to try their mezcal version and take in the views of the city. If you’re looking for a spa day in CDMX, then I’d come to the Remède spa where you can book a treatment and enjoy the amenities.
• Casa Polanco ($$$, Polanco) — Set inside a renovated Spanish Revival-style mansion, Casa Polanco‘s goal is to make guests feel as though they’re staying at a friend’s home. Rooms are bright, art nouveau, and neutral, providing the perfect sanctuary from the city’s hustle and bustle. When you do venture out, you’ll find yourself in the posh Polanco neighborhood, with tons to see and do just steps away.

Hotels Bookmarked (For My Next Trip!)

• Casa Seis Siete ($$, Roma Norte) — One of the newer faces in town, this charming bed and breakfast is an affordable, yet chic stay in Roma Norte. It only has 4 suites, so consider booking in advance.
• Hotel Dama ($$$, Condesa) — Located on the Jacaranda lined streets of Condesa, Hotel Dama is a very elevated 17-room historic hotel. A former residential building renovated by local architects, it has stunning rooms with flairs of Mexico’s culture and history.
• Casa Cuenca ($, Condesa) —A charming and very affordable boutique hotel. Love the minimalist design here and the great location.

My Favorite Airbnbs in Mexico City

1. 2 Bedroom Modern Stay in Condesa with Outdoor Space, for the best relaxed base amid parks, cafés, and nightlife
2. 2 Bedroom Bright Condo with Terrace in Roma Norte, for the best indoor-outdoor living in a leafy, walkable neighborhood
3. 2 Bedroom Stylish Loft with Private Balcony in Juárez, for the best contemporary design and central access to culture and dining
4. 3 Bedroom Spacious Home with Rooftop Terrace, for the best gathering spot with skyline views and outdoor lounging
5. 1 Bedroom Cozy Studio in La Roma, for the best compact, stylish stay steps from great restaurants and bars

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The Best Mexico City Restaurants

Mexico City has one of the most vibrant culinary scenes in the world. Here are some of my favorite spots for local food. For an expanded list of where to eat in Mexico City, read my guide to the best restaurants in Mexico City!

Contramar

Arguably my favorite meal in Mexico City is Contramar. So much so, that we had to do a “walk-in” to dine once more at the bar. Their tuna tostadas are out of this world and order the whole fish if you have a group of people.

Pujol

Pujol alone put Mexican cuisine on the fine dining spectrum. By chef Enrique Olvera, this prix fixe meal is an ode to indigenous ingredients and regional dishes. I highly recommend booking this one as far out as possible.

Quintonil

One of those meals that will remain in your memory, Quintonil has a tasting menu that highlights the best of local ingredients and traditional dishes. 

Rosetta

A beautiful reprieve, this Italian restaurant is a favorite for me when it comes to unique dining. The dining room space at Rosetta is as beautiful as the food tastes. Chef Elena Reygadas is doing something special here.

Máximo Bistrot

It’s hard to categorize Máximo Bistrot. It’s like French cuisine meets Mexican heritage. Listed as one of the top restaurants in Latin America, I’d recommend dinner here. Be sure to order the suckling pig. 

El Turix

Come to El Turix for their cochonita pibil tacos. Out of this world and cash only. Be sure to try the housemade salsas as well.

El Huequito

Remember the street food scene and al pastor tacos I mentioned? These are them. El Huequito has multiple locations and, seriously, al pastor will never taste the same again.

Antojitos La Poblanita (Mercado El Chorrito)

Sometimes you take a chance and it works out — like the time we grabbed a snack before a tour and it was this food stand inside of a market. Sopes and quesadillas were so good we spoiled our lunch. 

Quesadillas Maria Isabel

Recommended by a local, popped into Quesadillas Maria for these delicious fried quesadillas. Quite different from the usual suspects, the warm queso was delicious.

Churrería El Moro

El Moro is a must-visit at least twice during a trip. Come here for churros and multiple locations across the city. It also serves ice cream, coffee, and milkshakes.

Panadería Rosetta

From the chef behind Rosetta Restaurant, her baked goods at Panadería Rosetta are a must. Grab a guava pastry “para llevar” (to go). Photo from Rosetta next door. 

Chiquitito Café

Located in the Condesa, Chiquitito Café is a small coffee shop favored by locals for a great cup of coffee. There are multiple locations in the city.

Where to Get Drinks

Since we leave our cameras at home most of the time when we go out, I have zero photos. So here’s a list of my favorite cocktail bars in Mexico City where you can get a range of cocktails from mezcal to gin:

• Limantour
• Bar Félix (they make a great pizza too)
• Handshake Speakeasy
• Xaman Bar
• Bar Las Brujas
• Hiya Wine Bar
• Tlecan

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Things to Do in Mexico City

Stroll through Chapultepec Park and See Chapultepec Castle

Chapultepec Park, or Bosque de Chapultepec, is known as the lung of Mexico City. This over 2,000-acre park situated right in the center is one of my personal favorites for a stroll. It’s super popular with locals, especially on weekends, where you’ll find families gathered and vendors selling an assortment of snacks.

At the very top of the hill within Chapultepec Park, is Chapultepec Castle, home to the National Museum of History. Originally built in the 18th century as a royal residence for Spanish viceroys, the castle later became the official residence of Mexican emperors, including Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota, during the Second Mexican Empire. It’s a wonderful museum and site to visit when there.

Other parks to seek out while visiting are Parque Mexico and Parque Espana, both are small yet lovely green spaces to take a city break.

Hop on A Food & Market Tour

One highlight of a trip to Mexico City includes time in the food market. They are abundant from Mercado de La Merced, Mercardo El Chorrito, Mercado de Coyoacán, to Mercado de San Juan. But the truth is, they can be overwhelming to walk into and try to find somewhere to eat. My suggestion? Book yourself a guided food tour. You’ll learn a lot from a local guide and try foods you probably wouldn’t otherwise. These are the top-rated options:

• Small-Group Historic Center Food Tour (5 hrs)
• Small-Group Colonia Roma Food Tour (4 hrs)
• Polanco Food Tour: The Bestselling Private Tour (3 hrs)
• Small-Group Secret Food Tours Mexico City (3 hrs)

Museum Hop Through the City

Mexico City has some of the best museums and a wide range of styles of art to see. I’ve done a lot of museum hopping across the city, here are my go-to’s I love to see each trip:

• Frida Kahlo’s Casa, for a tour of her life and works
• Museo Tamayo Arte Contemporáneo, for rotating contemporary art exhibits in a beautiful space
• Museo Nacional de Antropología, for historical art pieces, archeological ruins, and more heritage
• Museo Soumaya, for a collection of works from Rodin to Chinese artifacts, the building is stunning
• Museo Jumex, for modern art, often rotates exhibits so check directly
• Colegio de San Ildefonso, for early works of Diego Rivera, David Siqueiros, and José Clemente Orozco

Take a Visit to Biblioteca Vasconcelos

One of my favorite places to go to in Mexico City has to be this library. Biblioteca Vasconcelos is one of the largest and most iconic libraries in Latin America. Designed by architect Alberto Kalach, it opened in 2006 and is known for its stunning modern architecture. The building’s striking design features vast open spaces, expansive glass windows, and a distinctive metal structure, which gives it a futuristic feel.

Shop for Local Art, Design, and Clothing

Mexico City has some of the best shopping that I’ve personally experienced. I usually bring an extra carry-on each trip as I find something to bring home every time. One great area to go shopping is Avenida Amsterdam in Condesa; there are several stores here, as well as the Roma Norte neighborhood. A few of my favorite stores across CDMX:

• CASA MIMI, for antique art
• Trouve, for a range of goods
• AUDETTE, for leather goods
• MisMezcales, for mezcal
• Hi-Bye, for clothing
• Chic By Accident, for furniture

Visit the Historic Zocalo and Its Sights

I’ll admit I didn’t make it here until my second trip, but the Zocalo shouldn’t be missed. The Zócalo, or Plaza de la Constitución, is the main square in the heart of Mexico City and one of the largest public squares in the world. Originally built as the main plaza for the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán, it sits atop what was once the heart of the Aztec empire. There are several important points of interest to seek out when here.

The first is the National Palace, where Diego Rivera’s famous murals can be seen, and the Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana de la Ciudad de México), a stunning example of colonial-era architecture. It is a massively busy area, probably one of the busiest in town. Mind your belongings, and I don’t recommend this area come late at night.

Tour Casa Estudio Luis Barragán

One of the best architecture tours I’ve done in my travels was to the home of Luis Barragán. He is a famed architect, and his space and use of shadows and light are stunning. Small group tours are offered in English and must be booked well in advance.

Take a Day Trip to Xochimilco

One of the most popular day trips from Ciudad de México is out to Xochimilco. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s known for its vibrant canals, colorful trajineras (traditional wooden boats), and rich cultural history. The best way to visit Xochimilco is to hop on a guided tour, consider these top-rated options:

• Xochimilco & Coyoacán Private Tour (8 hrs)
• Xochimilco, Coyoacán & Frida Kahlo Museum (good option for seeing everything that requires a lot of transportation)
• Xochimilco Mexican Fiesta with Unlimited Drinks (a more lively, high-energy experience)

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