Things to Do in Mexico City

About Mexico City

Mexico City layers three thousand years of history into one sprawling, contradictory metropolis. Aztec temples stand next to colonial cathedrals, modern galleries open beside traditional markets packed with marigolds and chiles. The contrasts define the place. Street vendors sell excellent tacos steps from Michelin-starred restaurants. Mariachi music drifts from cantinas wedged between glass towers, and Diego Rivera's murals cover ancient walls with revolutionary scenes. Copal incense mixes with morning coffee in the air—this is how the city smells at dawn. Every neighborhood shows you something different. Roma Norte has tree-lined streets and good cafes. Coyoacán skews bohemian. You'll get lost in the side streets, and that is the point. The culture here doesn't apologize for celebrating life loudly and often.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use the Metro system with a rechargeable card for efficient travel (avoid rush hours 7-9am, 6-8pm). Download Uber or Didi for safe rides at night. Walking is ideal in neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Centro Histórico.

Money: Carry cash—many vendors, markets, and small restaurants don't accept cards. Use bank ATMs for better exchange rates. Tip 10-15% at restaurants, 10-20 pesos for taxi drivers, and small amounts for street performers.

Cultural Respect: Learn basic Spanish greetings—locals appreciate the effort. Dress modestly when visiting churches and remove hats. Ask permission before photographing people, especially indigenous vendors. Avoid discussing politics or drug-related topics with strangers.

Food Safety: Eat at busy street stalls with high turnover—popular spots mean fresh food. Drink bottled or filtered water. Try local favorites like tacos al pastor, pozole, and churros from established vendors rather than tourist-focused restaurants.

When to Visit

Mexico City enjoys a pleasant subtropical highland climate year-round, with temperatures rarely exceeding 85°F (29°C) or dropping below 40°F (4°C).October through Apriloffers the best weather—dry, sunny days averaging 70-75°F (21-24°C) with cool nights around 50°F (10°C). This peak season sees hotel prices increase 30-50%, especially around Christmas and Easter.May through Septemberbrings the rainy season, with afternoon showers from June to September and humidity peaking in July-August. However, mornings are typically clear, and accommodation costs drop 20-40%.Key festivals include:Día de los Muertos (November 1-2) with spectacular celebrations, Semana Santa (March/April) featuring religious processions, and Independence Day (September 16) with patriotic festivities.For budget travelers,visit May-September for lower prices and fewer crowds, just pack an umbrella.Culture ensoiastsshould time visits around November's Day of the Dead celebrations or December's Las Posadas.Weather-sensitive visitorswill find October-March ideal, though booking accommodations well in advance is essential during this popular period.