Tenochtitlan, el Distrito Federal, la Ciudad de México—Mexico City has gone by many names over its long, storied history. With over 21 million people calling it home, this vast metropolis isn’t just the capital of Mexico—it’s also one of the world’s greatest cities, as voted by Travel + Leisure readers in the 2022 World’s Best Awards.
“You can’t truly grasp Mexico without first understanding Mexico City,” says Zachary Rabinor, a T+L A-List advisor and CEO of Journey Mexico. “The capital pulses with the country’s cultural, historical, political, artistic, and musical heartbeat. If you want to know what’s happening in Mexico, start here.”
Every corner of CDMX brims with museums, cultural gems, top-tier hotels, and unforgettable food. Even if you’ve only got a day, mix the old and new: admire Diego Rivera’s murals at Palacio de Bellas Artes, snack on elote from a Zócalo street vendor, or hop between museums like Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul, Castillo de Chapultepec, and the dazzling Museo Soumaya. And when hunger strikes? Track down tacos al pastor—they’re everywhere. Miss something? Don’t worry—Mexico City will always welcome you back. Here’s our ultimate guide to exploring this incredible capital.
Top 5 Can’t-Miss Spots
- Casa Azul: Frida Kahlo’s former home, now a museum showcasing her iconic work.
- Mercado de Artesanias La Ciudadela: A treasure trove of handmade Mexican crafts.
- Café de Tacuba: A century-old institution in the city center, frequented by artists and presidents alike.
- Museo Soumaya: Home to a world-class art collection, wrapped in a shimmering façade of 16,000 hexagons.
- Galería Mexicana de Diseño: Perfect for stylish, locally made souvenirs.
Best Hotels & Resorts
The St. Regis Mexico City
Perched on bustling Reforma Avenue, this luxe stay puts you steps from landmarks like Ángel de la Independencia and Chapultepec Park. Dine at Diana, their on-site restaurant, for everything from tuna tostadas to avocado pizza. In 2024, they debuted eight Garden Suites—“a serene escape from urban chaos,” says GM Rodrigo Rizzi.
Casa Decu Condesa
A chic art deco hideaway with rooftop gardens, private patios, and a prime location near Parque México. Don’t miss the legendary tortas de chilaquiles at nearby Esquina de Chilaquil.
Ignacia Guest House
In trendy La Roma, each vibrantly colored room feels like a bold artistic statement. Just blocks from Metro stations and Huerto Roma Verde, a community garden hub.
Las Alcobas
Polanco’s polished 35-room gem, ranked #2 in T+L’s 2022 awards. Pro tip: Book their “Jet Lag” bath service for herbal-soaked relaxation.
El Patio 77
An eco-friendly 1890s mansion in San Rafael, with rooms inspired by Mexico’s states. Think rainwater recycling and upcycled furniture—uniquely luxe.
Best Things to Do
- El Centro Histórico: Where Aztec ruins meet skyscrapers. Must-sees: Palacio de Bellas Artes, the Zócalo, and Mercado Ciudadela.
- Casa Azul (Frida Kahlo Museum: Book ahead to wander her preserved home and studio.
- Bosque de Chapultepec: A sprawling urban forest with castles, museums, and endless greenery.
- Museo Soumaya: A visual stunner outside, with Rodin sculptures inside.
- Parque México: The city’s “lungs”—perfect for people-watching and churro breaks.
Best Shopping
- Mercado de Artesanias La Ciudadela: Ceramics, textiles, and jewelry from across Mexico (cash is king here).
- Barrio Alameda: A 1920s hub for vintage finds, vinyl, and indie boutiques.
- Galería Mexicana de Diseño: Modern Mexican home goods, shipped straight to your door.
Best Restaurants
- Contramar: Legendary seafood (order the tuna tostadas and pescado a la talla).
- Panadería Rosetta: Viral-worthy pastries, like the guava roll.
- Café de Tacuba: Historic spot for traditional Mexican feasts.
- Taquería Orinoco: Late-night northern-style tacos on flour tortillas.
- Los Danzantes: Coyoacán’s patio paradise—try the chapulines (fried grasshoppers).
When to Visit
October–March brings sunshine and festivals like Día de Muertos. Spring? Jacarandas bloom purple citywide. Locals flee to beaches in summer, leaving the city quieter for visitors.
Getting There & Around
- Fly into Benito Juárez Airport (MEX)—direct flights from major U.S. hubs.
- Skip renting a car: Use the Metro (5 pesos/ride), Metrobús, or Uber (Rabinor’s top pick).
- Bike rentals: Ecobici or apps like Dezba.
Neighborhoods to Explore
- Centro Histórico: The country’s “beating heart,” says Rabinor.
- La Roma: Artsy, rebuilt post-1985 quake.
- La Condesa: Leafy streets, Parque México, and cozy cafés.
- Coyoacán: Frida’s bohemian ’hood, with lively plazas and markets.
- Polanco: Posh shopping and Michelin-worthy dining.
