Our most recommended things to do in Mexico City

From Mexico City: Teotihuacan Air Balloon Flight & Breakfast

1. From Mexico City: Teotihuacan Air Balloon Flight & Breakfast

Discover the Teotihuacán Valley from the sky during a memorable 30 to 50-minute balloon flight. Marvel at some of the world's most treasured archaeological wonders as you glide overhead. After, get the chance to explore the ruins on the ground. After being picked up from your hotel in Mexico City, take a shared transfer to Teotihuacán (optional). Arrive at the Volare Balloon Port and savor a delicious coffee. Then, embark on an unforgettable flight in a hot air balloon above one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. Travel with officially certified pilots in the most modern fleet of balloons of Mexico. After your flight, return to the port, make a toast and receive your flight certificate before enjoying a delicious buffet breakfast. Then, take an optional transfer to the Teotihuacán Archaeological Zone to explore the ruins from the ground. Spend 3 hours there to get to know the Sun and Moon Pyramids and Quetzalcoatl Temple. Please note, the cost of the tour does not include access to the archaeological zone of Teotihuacán (available to purchase for $85 MXN per person). Finally, take the optional shared return transfer back to Mexico City where you will be dropped off at your hotel at the tour conclusion.

Mexico City: Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine & Tlatelolco Tour

2. Mexico City: Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine & Tlatelolco Tour

Make the most of your next trip to Mexico City with a trio of Mexico’s must-see historical monuments. Mexican Root is a celebration of the civilizations and cultures that have made Mexico what it is today. Visit the legendary Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Tlatelolco and the Pyramids of Teotihuacan on this full-day excursion from Mexico City. Your first stop will be in Tlatelolco, Mexico City’s most significant archaeological site. Alongside temples dedicated to Mexican deities, learn the more macabre side of their history, including human sacrifices, mass graves, and the so-called Lovers of Tlatelolco  Continue to the Guadalupe Shrine, located in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. In this 18th-century shrine, you’ll see a cloak with the image of Guadalupe as you learn about her significance to the culture and people of modern Mexico. Spot where Our Lady of Guadalupe is said to have appeared to an indigenous Mexican. Then have time to lunch and recharge energies. Head to one of the most jaw-dropping sites in Mexico, the great Teotihuacan Pyramids to explore the mystical site with a guide. See the Pyramid of the Sun, with its more than 200 feet tall, the largest in Mesoamerica. Along with a trip along the Avenue of the Dead learn about the origins of this religious city and see the Temples of Quetzalpapalotl, the Temple of the Feathered Shells, and the Pyramid of the Moon Enjoy a tour full of adventure, history, and some of the most breathtaking views of Mexico.

Mexico City: Xochimilco, Coyoacan, Frida Kahlo & UNAM

3. Mexico City: Xochimilco, Coyoacan, Frida Kahlo & UNAM

Enjoy a full-day guided tour of Mexico City’s most enchanting neighborhoods. Cruise along the Aztec-era Xochimilco canals, explore the colonial district, and admire the murals in the UNAM. Departing from Downtown Mexico City, head south, passing the most important sites of the modern city. Stop off at a local cooperative shop that helps the Mexican local artisans. The next stop is University City, where you can admire the many murals at the Rectory, and wander around the main campus' Central Library. The campus also includes an impressive volcano-shaped, 63,000-seat Olympic Stadium. Head to the eye-catching Xochimilco and board a trajinera - a colorful, gondola-like boat - for a ride through the neighborhood’s famous canals. As you indulge in local treats and try your hand at bartering, your guide will share the incredible details of what makes this area a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, visit the colonial district of Coyoacan and admire the rambling 16th-century houses of Francisco Sosa Street. As you wander its tree-lined streets, you’ll learn how this city has played a part in historical empires like the Aztec and Spanish to becoming a cultural capital and home to Octavio Paz, Leon Trotsky, Diego Rivera, and Frida Kahlo. At Casa Azul, Kahlo’s home and now museum, we’ll immerse ourselves in the trailblazing life of one of Mexico’s most original artists. Mexico is known the world over for its living history and the breathtaking art of renowned artists, like Frida Kahlo, whose impact is still felt today. Visit the Frida Kahlo's Museum called "La Casa Azul". Housed in the striking cobalt blue house where she was born and returned for the last years of her life, the Casa Azul. See a large assortment of pre-Hispanic artifacts, Mexican folk art, and indigenous jewelry from her personal collection. Enjoy a day full of Aztec history, Mexican art, and delicious flavors that combines some of the Mexico City's must sees in one tour.

Mexico City: Teotihuacan and Tlatelolco Day Trip by Van

4. Mexico City: Teotihuacan and Tlatelolco Day Trip by Van

Take in the three most culturally and historically important sites in the Mexico City area on a full-day tour. First, visit the archeological site of Teotihuacan and marvel at some of the most impressive pyramids in the world. See the Sun and Moon pyramids, the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, and the Dead's Avenue. Next, you’ll head to Mexico’s most important Catholic pilgrimage site, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This shrine was built to commemorate the reported appearance of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego, an Aztec peasant. The third and final stop of the tour is Tlatelolco, where it is said that the past, present, and future of Mexico meet. The Plaza de las Tres Culturas is named after the three periods of Mexican history represented by structures from the pre-Columbian, Spanish colonial, and the independent mestizo nation.

Mexico City: Frida Kahlo and Anahuacalli Museum Ticket

5. Mexico City: Frida Kahlo and Anahuacalli Museum Ticket

Visit the emblematic Frida Kahlo Museum with a standard or first access entry ticket. When visiting Mexico City you don't want to miss the iconic home of Frida Kahlo. Learn about the daily life of this artistic couple and enjoy the peace of the gardens too. The Frida Kahlo Museum is also known as La Casa Azul (The Blue House) thanks to its blue walls. This historic house, where Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera lived, is now an art museum, dedicated to the life and work of Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo. Enjoy entry with the standard entry ticket or choose the first access ticket option to avoid crowds by being the first group of the day to enter the museum.

Mexico City: Xochimilco Boat Tour with Lunch and Drinks

6. Mexico City: Xochimilco Boat Tour with Lunch and Drinks

Tour the canals of Xochimilco aboard a traditional boat. Listen to commentary from the guide and drink tequila, margarita, or soft drinks. Have fun along the way with Mexican board games. Eat at a local restaurant on a floating island, then learn how to make a michelada cocktail. Arrive at the meeting point and board your Trajinera boat. Then, start to explore the canals of Xochimilco while your bilingual guide shares the history of the area. Drink margaritas, tequila, water, and soft drinks. Eat some Mexican candies. During the tour, play Mexican board games, such as Loteria (Mexican Bingo), and the pirinola roulette. Have the chance to win prizes. Then, listen to songs from Mariachi singers, who will come close to your boat to perform. Afterward, stop at a local restaurant on a Chinampa (floating island) for lunch. Mingle with the locals, then get back onto your boat for a workshop. Learn how to make a michelada cocktail, and enjoy some drinks. Finally, return to the starting point to finish your tour.

Mexico City: Full-Day Hop-on/Hop-off Bus Tour

7. Mexico City: Full-Day Hop-on/Hop-off Bus Tour

Discover the best option to visit Mexico City in one day at your own pace and without stress, being able to hop on or off at the times that you want with the same ticket all day. You can choose between 4 different routes, such as the Historical Center Route that has 19 stops. With this route you can discover the history, architecture, culture, and of course authentic Mexican cuisine. The Polanco Route on the other hand is perfect to enjoy shopping and the most avant-garde architecture in the city throughout its 7 stops. The South Route has a total of 18 stops, and will take you to visit the most bohemian neighborhoods of the city, complete with a touch of architecture and archeology. With the final Basilica Route, you will encounter 5 stops during the tour, with this tour offering a religious excellence. With a duration of 3 hours, each route will allow you to take a trip through the pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern times in the great capital of Mexico.

Mexico: Full-Day Teotihuacan & Basilica Guadalupe Tour

8. Mexico: Full-Day Teotihuacan & Basilica Guadalupe Tour

Escape Mexico City and discover the cultures that founded it. Choose your closest pickup location and explore the State of Mexico. Learn incredible facts about the cities and sacred sites that thrived before Spanish influence. Your experience begins with a stroll through the Plaza de las Tres Culturas. Visit the church of Santiago de Tlatelolco, contemplate the ruins of a pre-Hispanic city, and see the monument in honor of the student movement of 1968. Continue your experience at the Guadalupe Basilica complex and climb the sacred hill of Tepeyac, the place where the Virgin Mary appeared to the Indian Juan Diego. Head to the Chapel of the Roses and enjoy a sweeping view of Mexico City. During your visit to the religious complex, admire the Chapel of the Indians, the Chapel of the Pocito, and the modern basilica, the place where the sacred blanket of Juan Diego is kept. To finish off your experience, head to the State of Mexico and discover the archaeological complex of Teotihuacan. Explore the archaeological zone and learn about the important history of this significant pre-Hispanic city. In Teotihuacan, you'll have time for lunch at a traditional restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of typical dishes of the region (costs not included). This activity also includes a visit to a handicraft center, where you can optionally taste liquors of the region (cactus and prickly pear) and try the traditional drink known as pulque.

Express Tour: Teotihuacan Pyramids

9. Express Tour: Teotihuacan Pyramids

Early and Express tour!!! Hello dear traveller, In this tour you will find the possibility to visit the Pyramids and have the best pictures of them in the shortest time. We will pick you up around 7am, then we will drive 1 hour towards the pyramids. We will start our visit and the pictures around 8am, after two hours of guided visit and nice pictures we will be back at Mexico City around 11:30. Dropping you in the same address is also included for your convinience. If you want to see the pyramids but don’t want to do waste your time on other additional (and not relates) activities, this is your tour (: We have more than 5 years of experience providing outstanding services.

Mexico City: Teotihuacán Early Access & Tequila

10. Mexico City: Teotihuacán Early Access & Tequila

On this GetYourGuide Exclusive experience, immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the 'City of the Gods'. Beat the crowds and learn about the history as well as the latest discoveries from your expert guide. Finish by sampling some local products. Visit Teotihuacan in the early morning, arriving at this famous archaeological site just as it begins to open its doors for the day. See the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon and the different buildings, plazas, and murals that make up this important pre-Hispanic city. Complete your tour with a stop at an obsidian workshop run by a Teotihuacan family. Enjoy tastings of liquors made from cactus, as well as tequila, mezcal, and pulque.

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Mexico City
The great Mexican metropolis — home to Frida Kahlo, tacos al pastor, and many a UNESCO-listed treasure.

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The best day trips and excursions from Mexico City are:

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Insider Tips: Planning a trip to Mexico City

Soumya is a history and culture-enthusiast with a passion for traveling the world. She has lived on 4 continents and traveled to 30+ countries, while immersing herself in local culture in each one of them. She loves writing about her experiences on her travel blog, Stories by Soumya, and also contributes to leading publications such as BBC Travel and Architectural Digest.

What should I do on my first trip to Mexico City?

When in Mexico City, do not miss the Zocalo and the historic landmarks that surround it. Zocalo, a bustling square and UNESCO heritage site, is Mexico City's most important public space and has remained so since the ancient times. The Aztecs built their capital "Tenochtitlan" here and later, the Spaniards converted it into their ruling base. Important historic buildings such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and the ruins of Templo Mayor dot the edges of Zocalo. It is also the venue for concerts, parades, and festivals including the famous Dia de la Muertos that happens in Oct-Nov every year.

Another unmissable place in Mexico City is the Frida Kahlo Museum. Located in the Coyoacan neighborhood, Casa Azul or the Blue House, now a museum, is the house where Frida Kahlo spent most of her life from birth till death. The museum has an interesting display of Kahlo's creations and her life memorabilia which make this place an absolute mecca for art and history enthusiasts."

What are some hidden gems to see in Mexico City?

One of the best hidden gems of Mexico City is the Secretariat of Public Education that's home to over 200 panels of mural art created by Diego Rivera in the 1920s. These are vibrant panels depicting local life, festivals, food, agriculture, and immerse you deeply in Mexican culture. The Secretariat is located in the Historic Center and is free to visit, yet this place remains the city's little secret. Another non-touristy thing to do in Mexico City is to see the mummies at Museo de El Carmen. Housed in a 17th-century building in the San Angel neighborhood, Museo de El Carmen has a crypt that is home to 12 mummies from the 1600s. Even though the bodies have not been identified, it is known that they belonged to supporters of the Carmelite order.

How much time should I spend in Mexico City?

4 days is ideal to see the highlights of Mexico City.

On Day 1, take it easy (you might suffer from altitude sickness) and explore the attractions of Centro Historico. That includes Templo Mayor, Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace, Postal Palace, Palacio de Bellas Artes, and many more.

On Day 2, head to Bosque de Chapultepec and enjoy the many attractions that the park offers including Chapultepec Castle, National Anthropology Museum, and the Ninos Heroes Monument.

On Day 3, visit Frida Kahlo's Museum in Coyoacan and take a ride through the canals of Xochimilco. In the evening, experience the hip neighborhoods of Roma and Condesa.

On Day 4, take a hot air balloon flight over the pyramids of Teotihuacan and follow it up with a guided tour of the archeological site.

What food is Mexico City known for?

Mexico City is well-known for its large spread of street food including tacos al pastor, tamales, tlacoyos, and quesadillas. The most popular Mexico City street food is tacos al pastor, a dish that is an unique combination of Mexican and Lebanese culinary techniques. When the Lebanese migrated to Mexico in the early 1900s, they brought with them the technique of grilling meat on vertical spits. The Mexicans soon adopted this technique and started using shaved meat in their tacos and garnished them with onions, cilantro, and salsa, giving birth to tacos al pastor. Today, tacos al pastor are Mexico City's favorite street food with many vendors selling these delightful tacos into wee hours of the morning.

What is the best way to get around Mexico City?

Mexico City has great public transport. It is a cheap and fast way of getting around this huge city. For traveling between neighborhoods, use the Metro and the Metrobus (buses that run on fixed routes). Local buses also service inner parts of the city. Mexico City also has a bike sharing system called Ecobici that's a fun way to explore shorter distances. If you're staying in the Historic Center, you can just walk to all the attractions around Zocalo. If you'd prefer a taxi instead, use a ride-sharing app like DiDi or Uber. Both are reasonably priced and totally safe to use.

What are the best months to visit Mexico City?

The best time to visit Mexico City is during the spring months of March - May. Temperatures hover in the late 50s - early 70s and the days are sunny making it just the perfect time to explore Mexico City's historical landmarks and natural wonders. Jacarandas are also in full bloom during the spring months (especially April) making it a beautiful time to visit Mexico City. March also sees the celebration of Festival del Centro Historico that includes dances, music, art, and all kinds of cultural performances. The fall months of October - November are also good (though not the best because the weather starts getting chilly then) because Mexico City plays host to one of its most coveted events, Dia de los Muertos or the Day of the Dead.

What are the best neighborhoods to visit in Mexico City?

One of the best neighborhoods to visit in Mexico City is Roma Norte. Chock full of art galleries, boutique hotels, amazing restaurants, swanky bars, and fragrant panaderias, Roma Norte is one of Mexico City's trendiest neighborhoods. Head to Roma Norte's lively central avenue, Avenida Alvaro Obregon for the best food, drinks, and music.

What are the best neighborhoods for food?

Polanco is one of the best areas to eat in Mexico City. Home to some of the highest-rated restaurants in the world and the best taquerias, Polanco is undoubtedly the best foodie destination in Mexico City. The neighborhood offers countless opportunities to taste modern Mexican cuisine and traditional country flavors, side by side. Some of the best places to eat in Polanco are the world famous, high-end restaurants Pujol and Quintonil as well as the hole-in-the-wall El Turix Taqueria.

What are the best neighborhoods for shopping?

The best places to shop for authentic Mexican handicrafts and artisan products are its local markets. One of the top places to shop is the La Ciudadela Artisan Market. Located within walking distance from downtown Mexico City, La Ciudadela is the best place to buy traditional Mexican textiles, paper mache toys, sombreros, colorful ceramics, and beaded jewelry.

What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit Mexico City?

If you're visiting Mexico City for the first time, stay in the Historic Center so that you'll be within walking distance from all the major attractions in the downtown area such as Templo Mayor, Metropolitan Cathedral, Palacio de Bellas Artes, and National Palace. The center is also serviced by many metro stations including Zocalo and Bellas Artes stations which makes it easy to commute to other parts of the city.

What's are 4 best tips for a person traveling to Mexico City?

1) Most Mexico City attractions including museums and parks are closed on Mondays are closed on Mondays. Take that into consideration when planning your trip, As an alternative you could plan a day trip to Teotihuacan or the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco on a Monday.

2) Many Mexico City museums and archeological sites have free entry for Mexican citizens and residents (with paperwork) on Sundays, which turn out to be the busiest days. You may want to avoid Sundays, in that case.

3) Traffic in Mexico City is crazy especially on week days and during rush hours. Even the metro gets really busy (imagine being squished in a packed metro car between hundreds of strangers!) during rush hours. So, avoid traveling during the rush hours of 8-10am and 5-8pm, if possible.

4) Buy a Mexico City Metro Card or the Integrated Mobility Card that covers travel on all public transport within the city.

5) Mexico City is located at an altitude of 7,350ft (2,240m). You may suffer from altitude sickness (dehydration and difficulty in breathing) on the day of your arrival. The best way to deal with it is to rest, drink lots of water, and take it easy on Day 1.

What should people avoid doing in Mexico City?

Avoid using the metro during rush hours (8-10am and 5-8pm) if you value your personal space. The metro cars can get extremely crowded.

What are your top 4 favourite GetYourGuide experiences in Mexico City?

1) Mexico City: Historic Downtown Walking Tour

2) From Mexico City: Teotihuacan Air Balloon Flight & Breakfast

3) Mexico City: Xochimilco, Coyoacan, Frida Kahlo & UNAM

4) Mexico City: Anthropology Museum Guided Visit

What is one thing that surprised you about Mexico City?

Something about Mexico City that totally surprised me was the fact that manmade island farms made by the Aztecs in the 14th century were still providing food to the people of Mexico City. In the absence of arable land, the Aztecs built these island farms, known as chinampas, on shallow lakes. They can be still seen at the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco, a UNESCO heritage site. I was fascinated by the chinampas of Mexico City and wrote a piece about them for BBC Travel here. Also, I had the perception that it would be impossible to find vegetarian/vegan food in Mexico City but that was not the case. There are several vegetarian/vegan restaurants in town with the Roma Norte neighborhood leading the rise of veganism in Mexico City.

What is the best family-friendly thing to do in Mexico City?

Bosque de Chapultepec or Chapultepec Park is one of Mexico City's best family-friendly places. Full of green spaces, walking and jogging trails, fountains, lakes, museums, as well as a huge zoo, Chapultepec Park is an attractive family destination. Whether you choose to go boating in the lake, spend some time at the zoo, explore the displays at Papalote Children's Museum, or hike up to Chapultepec Castle for stunning views of the city, Bosque de Chapultepec is sure to keep you and your family engaged.

What is the best thing to do in Mexico City for couples?

One of the most romantic things to do in Mexico City is to take a hot air balloon ride over the pyramids of Teotihuacan. As you float silently through the Mexican skies along with several other balloons while catching glimpses of an ancient city from 2000 years ago, you're sure to fall in love with your partner again. A hot air balloon ride is an incredible date idea. You can also book private balloons for a special date with your loved one.

Other Sightseeing Options in Mexico City

Want to discover all there is to do in Mexico City? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Mexico City

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 9,910 reviews

Awesome experience and would absolutely recommend! Our guide was Angela and she was extremely communicative, informative, helpful, and had great energy. Before the trip started she was communicative regarding pickup time and if we had any questions. Pick up was a breeze, the van was high end, and our driver was very professional and safe. As we drove, Angela was extremely knowledgable of the city's past and present and could answer all of our questions - the tour begins in the van as we head to the ruins. At the ruins, Angela was great - taking photos of us, bringing us to the best spots, and sharing key aspects of the mysteries surrounding the city. Tour was followed by a great lunch at a nearby restaurant overlooking the ruins. Last stop was the basilica. All in al, made for a great day in Mexico City that is a must experience!

BEST idea to do this early morning before the crowds and the intense sun, although it means being up and at the meeting place by 6:50 am! Teotihuacan is a marvel, and our guide Carla was able to capture important points without overwhelming us with information. Tour includes climbing and walking on dusty roads, but it's worth seeing the magnificence of a once great empire. The tequila tasting was a fun bonus, as we didn't realize there were that many variations, including pulque and a liqueur! Restaurant wasn't great and not cheap, but it was okay.

Thought when we pre-bought our tickets we wouldn't have to queue.!

We were misinformed and had to queue for over an hour to get into palace. Would not recommend going mid morning as far too many people trying to move around inside, crammed corridors and not able to see rooms properly.

Albert was the most amazing guide ever. It was almost a private tour (only 2people) and everything was taking care of. The hike is physical but definetely worthy.

Great tour guide. I would recommend a guide to help navigate all the exhibits at the Anthropology Museum.