Mexico City Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Top things to do in Mexico City

Mexico City rewards curious travellers with layers of history, art and food at every turn.

• Zócalo and Metropolitan Cathedral — One of the world’s largest city squares, framed by the cathedral and the National Palace.
• Templo Mayor — The excavated main temple of the Aztec capital, with a museum of finds, right beside the Zócalo.
• National Museum of Anthropology — A world-renowned museum of Mexico’s ancient cultures, including the Aztec Sun Stone.
• Chapultepec Park and Castle — A vast urban park with museums, lakes and a hilltop castle with city views.
• Frida Kahlo Museum — The Blue House in Coyoacán, where the artist lived and worked.
• Teotihuacan — The UNESCO-listed ancient city with the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, an easy day trip.
• Xochimilco — Colourful trajinera boats glide along ancient canals, with music and food on board.

Best time to visit Mexico City

Thanks to its altitude of about 2,240 metres, Mexico City has a mild climate all year. The dry season, from roughly October to May, brings sunny days and cool nights; March to May is the warmest period, while December and January mornings can be chilly. The jacaranda trees bloom purple across the city in early spring.

The rainy season, from about June to September, usually brings afternoon or evening downpours, while mornings are often clear. Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) on 1–2 November is one of the most atmospheric times to visit, with altars, marigolds and celebrations across the city.

Getting from the airport

Mexico City International Airport (Benito Juárez) is only about 5 km east of the historic centre, with two terminals linked by an inter-terminal train. A second airport, Felipe Ángeles International Airport, north of the city, also handles some flights, so check which airport your ticket shows.

Authorised airport taxis, sold at official booths inside the terminal, and ride-hailing services are the simplest options. The Metrobús Line 4 connects both terminals with the historic centre, and Metro Line 5 has a station at Terminal 1. Traffic can be heavy at peak times.

Where to stay

Mexico City is vast, so choose a neighbourhood that suits your interests.

• Centro Histórico — Historic hotels near the Zócalo, museums and colonial architecture; ideal for sightseeing.
• Roma and Condesa — Leafy, walkable districts with Art Deco buildings, cafés, parks and a lively food scene.
• Polanco — Upscale area with luxury hotels, fine dining and shopping, next to Chapultepec Park.
• Coyoacán — A charming, bohemian neighbourhood with cobbled streets, markets and the Frida Kahlo Museum.

Travel tips

• Altitude: Take it easy on your first day, drink plenty of water and limit alcohol while you adjust.
• Money: Cards are widely accepted, but carry pesos for markets, street food and small shops; tipping of around 10–15% is customary.
• Getting around: The Metro and Metrobús are extensive; use ride-hailing apps or official taxi stands rather than hailing cabs on the street.
• Food safety: Street food is a highlight; choose busy stalls and drink bottled or purified water.
• Safety: Keep valuables out of sight in crowded places and stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.