First-Timer Traveler's Guide to Mexico City

Start your day in Mexico City by exploring the Centro Histórico, the historical center of downtown Mexico City.

For breakfast, venture to El Cardenal. There are several locations throughout the city, but head to the one at Avenida Cinco de Mayo and Calle de la Palma. Be sur not to miss their famous freshly baked conchas & delectable hot chocolate!

After a hearty breakfast, walk around the Zócalo just one block away. This main square houses the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. Also be sure to explore the Templo Mayor archaeological site located there as well.

For beautiful views, and if you’re hungry for lunch, you can check out the rooftop restaurants at Gran Hotel Ciudad de México or Zócalo Central Hotel.

In the afternoon, venture west along Avenida Francisco I. Madero, a popular pedestrian street in the city. Don’t miss Casa de los Azulejos (the 18th-century palace with a blue-and-white tile facade). End at Palacio de Bellas Artes, a gorgeous French-inspired Art Nouveau exterior with an Art Deco interior. Don’t miss visiting one of their many rotating exhibitions as well.

For a gorgeous view, head to Sears across the street from any floor’s windows, or the top floor cafe (usually packed and not typically worth the time, in my opinion).

That evening, get ready for dinner at Azul Histórico, offering traditional Mexican cuisine in a charming courtyard setting.

Get ready for a full day trip to the Teotihuacan Pyramids, about 30 miles north of the city.

Constructed between the 1st and 7th centuries A.D., Teotihuacan is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Americas. You can explore the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, designed with intricate geometric and symbolic precision. You can also hike up both pyramids for incredible views (but be prepared for a steep climb and descent!).

If you are up for an early morning, you can arrange a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the pyramids.

For dinner, head back into the city in the afternoon and head to Pujol, a world-renowned restaurant offering contemporary Mexican cuisine. Be sure not to miss their famous molé madre!

Today you’ll explore Chapultepec Park and some of the city’s amazing museums.

You’ll start your day grabbing breakfast at the famous Churrería El Moro. There are many across the city, so you can hit up any that are convenient to your hotel or the ones near Chapultepec Park.

That morning you’ll hike up the hill inside of the park to see Chapultepec Castle. Built during the Viceroyalty of New Spain, it’s perhaps best known as the residence of Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota during the Second Mexican Empire (it was also the first presidential residence after Mexico’s independence). From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city not to be missed!

Afterward, you can walk around the park and watch the famous Voladores de Papantla (Papantla Flyers) as they rotate and descend upside down from tall towers.

For lunch, head to El Fogoncito for some of the best tacos in the city! They invented the gringa and it is definitely not to be missed.

That afternoon, visit the National Museum of Anthropology within the park, showcasing Mexico's rich cultural heritage.

For dinner, head to Lalo!, a trendy spot known for its Mexican comfort food.

Today you’ll be exploring the infamous Xochimilco, and the beautiful Coyoacán neighborhood.

For breakfast, head to the Mercado de Coyoacán. It’s a lively century-old marketplace spanning two stories, bustling with an array of food stalls, apparel, art, and souvenirs. You can opt to take a food tour or simply explore at your own pace.

Later that morning, take a boat ride through the colorful canals of Xochimilco. It’s party central, but great anytime of the day! And be sure not to miss La Isla de las Muñecas (a creepy island of decomposing, decapitated dolls hanging from trees).

In the afternoon, head over to the Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as Casa Azul, in Coyoacán. You can also explore the vibrant neighborhoods around the house.

For dinner, head to the San Ángel Inn, a famous local hotspot in a former monastery. If you’re here during August and September, be sure to order their chile en nogada (Mexico’s dish celebrating their independence).

Today you’ll explore the trendy neighborhoods of Roma, Condesa & Polanco.

Start your day at MAQUE Cafe. With indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a beautiful streetside setting with delicious foods and pastries.

Wander the trendy neighborhoods of Roma and Condesa, known for their hip atmosphere, street art, and cafes. Stroll through Parque España and visit the Mercado Roma for a variety of culinary delights.

That afternoon, head to Polanco to see the ‘Beverly Hills’ of Mexico City. With designer shops and luxury car boutiques, it’s a sight to see! Then visit the Soumaya Museum, a striking architectural gem, housing an extensive art collection. If you’re with kids or an animal lover, check out the city’s aquarium, Acuario Inbursa.

For dinner, head to Contramar, a famous seafood restaurant with a stylish atmosphere and consistently ranked as one of the world’s best restaurants.