20 Things to Do in Mexico City
Mexico City pulses with an incredible energy, a vast metropolis built upon ancient Aztec foundations, now bursting with world-class museums, vibrant neighborhoods, and a legendary food scene. This captivating capital offers layers of history and culture around every corner, and discovering its beauty includes many fantastic free things to do in Mexico City, like exploring immense public squares or wandering through colorful markets. Prepare for a journey through pre-Hispanic ruins, colonial grandeur, and contemporary dynamism.
This guide highlights twenty distinct experiences designed to capture the essence of Mexico City. From exploring historic centers and archaeological wonders to indulging in delicious street food and soaking up artistic heritage, these suggestions will help you navigate the highlights of this immense and fascinating city. Get ready to discover the heart of Mexico.
Historic Center (Centro Histórico) Treasures
Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución): Stand in the vast main square, one of the largest in the world, bordered by the Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace, and government buildings. Experience the bustling heart of the city, often hosting events and witnessing the daily flag raising/lowering ceremony.
Metropolitan Cathedral: Explore the impressive cathedral built over centuries atop former Aztec sacred sites, showcasing a blend of architectural styles. Admire its grand interior, ornate altars, and notable artworks reflecting Mexico’s colonial religious history.
National Palace (Palacio Nacional): Visit the seat of Mexico’s federal executive (check accessibility/tour info), located on the Zócalo’s east side. Admire Diego Rivera’s stunning murals depicting Mexican history lining the main stairwell and corridors.
Templo Mayor Ruins & Museum: Discover the archaeological site of the main Aztec temple complex right next to the Cathedral. Explore the excavated ruins and the accompanying museum housing artifacts unearthed here, offering a direct link to the pre-Hispanic city of Tenochtitlan.
Palacio de Bellas Artes: Marvel at the stunning Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture of this magnificent cultural center. Admire its opulent interior featuring murals by famous Mexican artists or catch a performance by the Ballet Folklórico de México.
Palacio de Correos (Postal Palace): Step inside the incredibly ornate central post office, a breathtaking example of early 20th-century eclectic architecture. Admire the lavish details, gilded bronze work, and marble floors even if you’re not mailing anything – it’s an architectural gem.
Museums & Artistic Heritage
National Museum of Anthropology: Immerse yourself in Mexico’s rich pre-Hispanic past and diverse indigenous cultures at this world-class museum in Chapultepec Park. Allow ample time to explore iconic artifacts like the Aztec Sun Stone and Mayan treasures for an essential cultural deep dive.
Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul): Visit the iconic blue house in Coyoacán where Frida Kahlo lived and worked, offering an intimate look at her life, art, and personal belongings. Book tickets online well in advance as entry is timed and sells out quickly.
Museo Soumaya: Admire the unique modern architecture of this private museum housing a vast and diverse art collection spanning European masters, Mexican art, and Rodin sculptures. Admission is free, making impressive art accessible.
Museo Jumex: Explore contemporary art exhibitions featuring international artists located next to Museo Soumaya in the Polanco district. Its rotating shows offer insight into current global art trends.
Neighborhood Charm & Parks
Explore Coyoacán: Wander the charming cobblestone streets of this bohemian neighborhood known for its colorful buildings, leafy plazas like Jardín Hidalgo, craft markets, and the Frida Kahlo Museum. Enjoy the relaxed, artistic atmosphere.
Wander Roma Norte & Condesa: Stroll through these adjacent trendy neighborhoods known for their beautiful Art Deco and Beaux-Arts architecture, leafy parks (like Parque México), chic boutiques, hip cafes, and excellent restaurants. Enjoy people-watching and soaking up the stylish vibe.
Chapultepec Park: Escape the city bustle in Latin America’s largest urban park, home to several museums (including Anthropology), lakes, Chapultepec Castle, a zoo, and vast green spaces. Enjoy boating, walking trails, or simply relaxing in this huge urban oasis.
Chapultepec Castle: Visit the historic castle perched atop Chapultepec Hill within the park, which served as an imperial palace and presidential residence, now housing the National History Museum. Enjoy stunning city views from its terraces.
Unique Experiences & Flavors
Xochimilco Boat Ride: Take a colorful trajinera (gondola-like boat) ride through the ancient canals of Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage site representing remnants of pre-Hispanic agricultural methods. Enjoy music, food vendors floating by, and a festive, unique atmosphere.
Attend a Lucha Libre Match: Experience the excitement and spectacle of Mexican professional wrestling at Arena México or Arena Coliseo. Cheer on the masked luchadores and enjoy the energetic crowd for a fun, unique cultural event.
Try Street Food: Indulge in Mexico City’s incredible street food scene, sampling tacos al pastor, tlacoyos, esquites, quesadillas, and countless other delicious and affordable options from street carts and market stalls. Exploring the local flavors is absolutely essential.
Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela: Browse a vast selection of Mexican handicrafts and souvenirs from across the country at this large artisan market. Find ceramics, textiles, silver jewelry, and unique gifts while practicing your bargaining skills.
Biblioteca Vasconcelos: Visit the visually stunning modern library known for its unique interior design featuring seemingly floating bookshelves within a large, open space surrounded by botanical gardens. It’s an impressive example of contemporary Mexican architecture.
Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Visit one of the most important religious pilgrimage sites in the Americas, dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe. Explore the modern basilica and the older colonial-era church on Tepeyac Hill, experiencing the deep religious devotion.
