Mexico City, affectionately known as CDMX, is a vibrant and sprawling metropolis that beats with the heart of Mexican culture, history and modernity. As one of the largest cities in the world, it offers an endless array of experiences, from the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan to the bustling streets of the Zócalo to the serene beauty of Chapultepec Park. The city's atmosphere is a vibrant mix of traditional Mexican culture and contemporary urban life, where mariachi music fills the air, and the aroma of street tacos tempts on every corner. Art lovers, history buffs, and foodies alike will find something to love in CDMX's museums, galleries, and restaurants.

Good to Know:

• Getting There: Mexico City is served by the Benito Juárez International Airport, which offers numerous international and domestic flights. The city is also accessible by bus from major Mexican cities and the U.S. border, providing a scenic route to the capital.
• Getting Around: The CDMX metro system is one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to get around the city, connecting major attractions, neighborhoods and business districts. Buses, including the Metrobús, and taxis are plentiful, while bike-sharing programs offer an eco-friendly option for shorter distances.
• Where to Stay: Options range from luxury hotels in Polanco and Reforma to charming inns in the artsy Roma and Condesa neighborhoods. Each area offers a unique perspective on the city and convenient access to dining, shopping, and cultural sites.
• How Long to Visit: We recommend staying at least four days to explore the city's main attractions, though you should plan to stay a week if you'd like to head out on day trips.
• When to Visit: The ideal time to visit is spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the city is alive with festivals and events.
• Similar Destinations: Travelers who appreciate Mexico City's blend of history, culture, and urban vibrancy may enjoy exploring Buenos Aires, Argentina, with its European flair and rich cultural scene. Similarly, Istanbul, Turkey, offers a fascinating mix of history, culture and modernity, where East meets West on the banks of the Bosphorus.

Highlights:

Zócalo:

In the historic heart of Mexico City lies the Zócalo, or Plaza de la Constitución, a vast square that has been the center of public life since Aztec times. The National Palace, with its magnificent murals by Diego Rivera, outlines Mexico's rich and tumultuous history on its walls and serves as the presidential residence. Across the plaza, the Metropolitan Cathedral embodies a mix of styles spanning nearly three centuries and showcases the grand architecture of the colonial period. A short walk from these iconic structures is the Templo Mayor, an archaeological site and museum that offers a window into the Aztec empire before the Spanish conquest.

The Museums:

Museums in Mexico City are unparalleled in their collections and diversity, offering a glimpse into the nation's soul. The National Museum of Anthropology, one of the most important of its kind, houses an extensive collection of artifacts from Mexico's indigenous cultures, including the awe-inspiring Aztec Sun Stone. The Frida Kahlo Museum, or La Casa Azul, located in the Coyoacán neighborhood, offers an intimate glimpse into the life of one of Mexico's most iconic artists in her vibrant blue home. Meanwhile, the Palace of Fine Arts stands out as a landmark of cultural sophistication, hosting world-class exhibitions and performances in its stunning marble halls.

Neighborhoods:

A delightful contrast of old-world charm and modern dynamism, Colonia Juarez is known for its boutique shops and artsy vibe. This neighborhood has become a vibrant area where fashion, cuisine and art converge, attracting those seeking the hottest spots in Mexico City. Coyoacán, with its cobblestone streets and colonial houses, exudes a bohemian atmosphere and invites visitors to explore its markets, cafes, and the Frida Kahlo Museum. It's a neighborhood where history, culture, and a relaxed pace blend, offering a peaceful retreat from the faster rhythms of the city. Finally, Polanco is one of Mexico City's most upscale neighborhoods, known for its luxurious boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and chic galleries. It's a cosmopolitan neighborhood where the elegance of its avenues and green spaces invite leisurely exploration.

Day Trip to Xochimilco:

A day trip to Xochimilco is an opportunity to experience Mexico City's vibrant culture and history from the waterways of its ancient canals. While floating on colorful trajineras, you can enjoy live music, traditional Mexican food, and swimming markets that glimpse into Mexico City's pre-Hispanic past. Xochimilco's canals are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and reflect the agricultural practices of the Aztec civilization through its chinampas.

Day trip to Teotihuacan:

A trip to Teotihuacan will introduce you to the majestic City of the Gods, home to some of the world's most impressive pyramids, including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Located just an hour from Mexico City, this ancient archaeological site offers a profound insight into Mesoamerican civilizations. Walking along the Avenue of the Dead, you will marvel at the grandeur of these ancient structures and climb the pyramids for panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Teotihuacan masterfully demonstrates its builders' architectural and astronomical precision and the enduring spirit of human ingenuity.