Planning a trip to the largest city in North America can be a bit overwhelming to say the least. Don’t fret! We’ve put together a list of the 13 best things to do in Mexico City. Make sure to put these sites and activities on your Mexico City itinerary to make the most of your trip.
Mexico City is a modern metropolitan area that’s rich in history and culture. There’s so much to do no matter how long you stay. So, if you’re planning to come for a long weekend or stay much longer, Mexico City will not disappoint. There’s always something to explore.
Here are 13 top attractions in Mexico City you won’t want to miss!
13 Best Things to Do in Mexico City
While this is certainly not a complete list of things to do in Mexico City it is meant as a starting point, particularly for people on their first visit to Ciudad de Mexico. You can also book guided tours to many of these attractions. Have a look at the best guided tours in Mexico City!
1. Chapultepec Castle
The beautiful Chapultepec Castle is one of the top things to do in Mexico City.
The castle sits atop Chapultepec Hill in Chapultepec Park, a huge park (almost twice the size of NYC’s Central Park) with a lake, amusement rides, and museums. You can make a whole day of it visiting Chapultepec Park and Castle.
The palace, once home to Mexican Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota, is now home to the Museo Nacional de Historia.
One of the best things about visiting Chapultepec? The view from the rooftop garden. It’s one of the best viewing points in Mexico City, high on the hilltop.
Enjoy the best views from Chapultepec Castle rooftop garden
2. Museo Frida Kahlo
Fans of the artist Frida Kahlo will be in their glory at the Museo Frida Kahlo. Why? Because this is the home of Frida – Casa Azul (the Blue House).
Yes, the very home where she was born (on July 6, 1907), lived and grew up, and years later lived with her husband Diego Rivera. Frida died at Casa Azul on July 13, 1954.
A tour of Frida Kahlo Museum is a step into her life, where you will see some of her major works and her personal items like diaries and clothes, along with her amazing collection of art.
After the indoor tour spend some time in the relaxing courtyard at the Blue House. Afterwards you can enjoy snacks and coffee at the café and visit the gift shop to buy souvenirs.
Frida Kahlo’s kitchen of vibrant yellow and blue grabs your attention
3. Palacio de Bellas Artes
The Palacio de Bellas Artes is impressive both inside and outside.
From the outside the architecture and gardens are stunning. This magnificent building is featured in just about any visual of the great Mexico City.
The inside of the Palace of Fine Arts is extraordinary. Giant murals painted by world renowned artists Diego Rivera, Jose Clemente Orozco, and David Alfaro Siqueiros decorate the walls.
It’s also Mexico City’s major performance hall. Check the event listings and buy your tickets for a performing arts event you will remember forever.
One of the most beautiful buildings in Mexico City is the Palacio de Bellas Artes
4. Teotihuacan Day Trip
Iconic. Bucket list. Can’t miss Teotihuacan!
A visit to the Teotihuacan ruins is a great day trip from Mexico City. It’s only 35 miles away!
Start out early and spend a day exploring the pyramids and ruins at Teotihuacan, an ancient city that had an estimated population of over 100,000 people.
The cheapest way to get to Teotihuacan is by bus from the Autobuses del Norte station (North bus station) and it takes about 1 hour.
You may want to consider taking a guided tour for the full experience to learn everything you can about this incredible archaeological site in Mexico. You can book this early morning tour to Teotihuacan that also includes transportation.
If you want a unique experience you should book the Teotihuacan hot air balloon ride!
The best day trip from Mexico city is Teotihuacan
5. Zocalo and Centro Historico
No trip to Mexico City would be complete without a trip to the Centro Historico and Zocalo, the city’s main square.
A number of the best things to do in Mexico City are actually in the Centro Historico district. So, chances are you’re already headed to the area.
But it’s important to point out how awesome this whole area is. As a UNESCO Heritage Site, it’s an area full of history, culture, and meaning. Strolling through the streets here is a great way to spend the day.
You’ll no doubt spend some time exploring the attractions in Centro Historico
6. Ruins of Templo Mayor
The Templo Mayor is an amazing historical site in Mexico City.
What makes it so great? For one, it was the home of Montezuma, the Aztec Emperor.
The other? It was literally buried. That’s right, during the Spanish conquest it was buried and forgotten. Until, that is, it was discovered by chance in 1978.
Since then, excavations have brought this magnificent place into the light. Here you can discover Aztec artifacts and learn about the excavation of the Templo Mayor.
LEARN MORE: 1-Week Solo Trip to Mexico City
7. Angel of Independence on Avenida Paseo de la Reforma
The Angel of Independence (El Angel) commemorates Mexico’s victory over Spain in its War of Independence.
Avenida Paseo de la Reforma is a major boulevard in Mexico City. Lining the street are trees and sculptures that will make it one of the most memorable strolls in town.
As you meander down the avenida, you’ll find the Angel of Independence – a powerful sculpture that is appreciated by Mexicans and visitors alike.
Angel of Independence on Avenida Paseo de la Reforma
8. The House of Tiles
If you’re exploring centro historico area of Mexico City, you’ll definitely know when you’ve reached the House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos).
This gorgeous building is an absolute showstopper.
Decorated with blue and white tiles on the outside, this 18th century building was a serious display of wealth and success.
Today, the House of Tiles is the home of the Sanborns Restaurant. Enjoying a meal inside this magical space is a great thing to do in Mexico City.
At the House of Tiles it’s amazing to see the hand-painted tiles close-up
9. Museums – So Many Museums!
Mexico City is a metropolis filled with culture, history and fun. And it’s got a museum for just about everything you can imagine. In fact, there are over 150 museums in Mexico City!
Interested in history? The National Museum of Anthropology will be your speed. It’s the most visited museum in all of Mexico.
Art lover? Palacio de Bellas Artes is perfect for fine arts. Step into the personal home of Frida Kahlo at the Museo Frida Kahlo. Or check out the contemporary art in Mexico City at Museo de Arte Moderno and the Museo Tamayo.
Or sample the best tequila at the Mezcal Museum. See what we’re saying? There’s a museum for everyone in Mexico City.
Mexico’s most visited museum is the Anthropology Museum in Mexico City
10. Torre Latinoamericana
When you want a grand view of Palacio de Bellas Artes and spectacular 360 degrees views of Mexico City you visit the Torre Latinoamericana and head up to the 44th floor.
One of the tallest buildings in Mexico City features an observation deck on the 44th floor where you can enjoy stunning views of the city.
Or grab yourself a drink at the Miralto restaurant on the 41st floor of Torre Latinamericana and enjoy the view from indoors.
11. Street Food
Mexico City is well known in the foodie world. Specifically, the street food is world famous.
And even more specifically the tamales and tacos are to die for. Or to travel for! Yes, the street food in Mexico City is reason enough for a trip to this magical city.
It seems like every neighborhood has their own specialty. From the vendors that navigate the canals of Xochimilco to the food carts at Chapultepec Park.
If you’re really into checking out the food scene, consider doing this Mexico City street food tour by bicycle!
You must try the the tacos in Mexico City – they are simply the best!
12. Coyoacan Market
The neighborhood of Coyoacan is a highlight in Mexico City all on its own and a definite must-visit.
But we have to say that the Coyoacan Market is just sooooo good. From the colors and sounds to the tastes (ohhh the tastes) the Coyoacan Market is a feast for the senses.
You can buy just about anything from fruit and veggies to woven bags. Oh, and definitely sample the tacos or tostadas – yummy! Pairs well with cervezas or margaritas. Just sayin’ :)
13. Xochimilco
The Xochimilco neighborhood is a unique place that can’t be missed.
Picture a series of canals throughout the area that creates the most amazing floating gardens. This awesome place was created by the Aztecs and is protected as a UNESCO heritage site.
Now visitors can take a trajinera (gondola) ride through the canals or be serenaded by a mariachi band while eating incredible food.
Xochimilco is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Mexico City!
Final Thoughts Mexico City Things to Do
There you have it. The 13 top bucket list items for Mexico City. With this list of best things to do in Mexico City you’ll be set to have a fabulous stay in this awesome city.
