Mexico City has been on my top five list for years, and I am thrilled to say it does not disappoint!
It’s larger and has a higher population than New York City, so it’s understandably a bit overwhelming at first. It’s also vibrant and alive, full of welcoming people eager to showcase both the nation’s capital and their culture.
Throughout the city, you’ll find historic architecture blended into a modern cityscape. Quiet tree-lined streets are steps away from bustling traffic and midtown high rises.
It’s affordable, safe, friendly, and walkable. I can’t wait to go back.
Where and how long to stay:
Mexico City has 16 boroughs that are home to 2,000 neighborhoods. I loved Reforma, Polanco, Condesa, and Centro Historico:
Reforma is in the heart of Mexico City, and a great central location.
Polanco is a wealthy neighborhood that is home to Chapultepec Park and high-end shopping.
Condesa is very bohemian. It’s full of lush green spaces, a thriving expat community, and great architecture.
Centro Historico is sometimes referred to as “downtown” and has a central public square where you can see locals dressed as Aztec warriors, shop in the open markets, and visit the Metropolitan Cathedral or National Palace. If old town city centers are your thing, Centro Historico is a must see.
Plan for at least a 4-day stay just to scratch the surface. You won’t be able to visit it all, but it’s a great start.
What to see:
Chapultepec Park — with nearly 1700 acres of trees, trails, kid- and family-friendly activities, quiet spaces, a lake, a zoo, a castle, and plenty of souvenir and food stalls, it’s a great way to spend a day.
Chapultepec Castle — located inside the park at the top of a hill marking a sacred place for the Aztecs. Incredible views, museums, and manicured gardens. Private tours are available, but it’s just as wonderful exploring it on your own.
Historical Center (Centro Historico) — visit the Plaza de la Constitución, Bellas Artes, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Have your picture taken with Aztec warriors. Wander the streets, explore the shops and restaurants, and experience the energy of the historic city center.
Alameda Central — the oldest public park in Mexico City. Street vendors, food stands, restaurants, shops, and evening dancing.
Top ten travel tips:
- Tourist cards are no longer needed for US citizens flying directly into Mexico City. Despite this, immigration rules such as the number of days you can stay in Mexico have not changed. When arriving, you’ll scan your passport electronically at immigration. The machine will give you a receipt with a QR code that you can scan for a digital version of your visitor’s permit. Keep the printed receipt someplace safe, you may be asked for it when boarding your return flight.
- Mexican customs regulations allow only one portable computer per traveler. Meaning you can bring a laptop or an iPad / tablet, but not both. Travelers who bring more than one device could be charged a tax of up to 19% of the deemed value (up to $4,000) or face confiscation. The regulations have been in place for a while and historically have not been consistently applied, but visitors are now reporting an uptick in places like Mexico City and Cancun.
- Although some resort cities like Cabo San Lucas accept both pesos and USD, Mexico City does not. Visit one of the many currency exchanges throughout the city to swap your dollars for pesos or use your ATM card at a local bank. Skipping the ATM and going directly inside the bank is not an option since they cannot sell you pesos without an account.
- While cannabis is decriminalized in Mexico, it is not fully legal, and the rule applies only to Mexican citizens. Because no clear legal framework is in place for tourists, the consequences could be strict. In Reforma, it’s common to see open consumption at Plaza de la Informacion. If you walk by, do not take pictures. The locals will stop you and make you delete them. Refer to the Embassy website for more information on cannabis use: Message for U.S. Citizens: Spring Break Travel — U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico (usembassy.gov)
- Mexico City is home to so many Starbucks locations that I lost count. Plus, plenty of American restaurants like McDonald’s, Carl’s Jr, PF Chang’s, and Krispy Kreme are available throughout the city. If the incredible aroma of the traditional Mexican dishes being served streetside doesn’t tempt you, or a visit to a local restaurant is out of your comfort zone, you can find American comfort food choices close by. OXXO is the local convenience store chain. It stocks some American favorites and has locations everywhere. I also spotted several 7–11 and Circle K stores.
- English, even conversational, is limited in many areas. You’re in the capital city of Mexico, so Spanish is the language of the day and Google translator is your friend.
- Public transit is clean, safe, and easy to navigate. Individual tickets are not available, so you’ll have to purchase an inexpensive reloadable card at the ticket kiosk.
- The iPhone map app is invaluable.
- Public garbage cans are few and far between. You may have to hold that empty water bottle until you get back to your hotel.
- While it’s gotten steadily better over the years, the air pollution can still cause smoggy days. If you’re sensitive, be sure to bring a mask.
Originally published 9/23/2024