Our Favorite Things to Do in Mexico City: Hidden Gems and Must-See Spots in the Heart of the Capital

Mexico City offers rich history, art, and culture with must-see spots like the historic Zócalo (main square), the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes, and the sprawling Chapultepec Park (home to Chapultepec Castle and the National Museum of Anthropology), alongside vibrant neighborhoods like Coyoacán with the famous Frida Kahlo Museum (Blue House). You can also explore ancient Aztec ruins at Templo Mayor, marvel at the Metropolitan Cathedral, and indulge in incredible street food and local markets. From world-class museums to legendary tacos al pastor, CDMX (as locals call it) rewards curious travelers who venture beyond the tourist trail.

Key takeaways 

Historic center (Centro Histórico)

• Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución): Mexico's massive main square with Aztec roots
• Templo Mayor: Ruins of the main Aztec temple with an on-site museum
• Palacio de Bellas Artes: Art Nouveau/Deco palace hosting the Ballet Folklórico
• National Palace: Home to Diego Rivera's iconic murals

Parks and museums

• Chapultepec Park: One of the largest urban parks in the Western Hemisphere, featuring Chapultepec Castle and the National Museum of Anthropology
• Museo Frida Kahlo (The Blue House): Frida's iconic home and studio in Coyoacán
• Museo Soumaya: Free museum with 66,000+ artworks including the largest Rodin collection outside France

Neighborhoods and culture

• Roma and Condesa: Trendy districts known for Art Deco architecture, cafes, and nightlife
• Coyoacán: Charming, historic area with cobblestone streets and local markets
• Xochimilco: Colorful trajineras (flat-bottomed boats) for a festive canal ride

Must-do experiences

• Eat street food: Try tacos al pastor, mole, and pozole from vendors citywide
• Explore markets: Visit La Ciudadela for crafts or Mercado Roma for gourmet bites
• Catch a show: Enjoy Lucha Libre wrestling at Arena México or the Ballet Folklórico at Bellas Artes

Day trips

• Teotihuacán: Ancient pyramids (Sun & Moon) just an hour north of the city
• Puebla, Valle de Bravo, and Tepoztlán: Colonial towns and natural escapes within two hours

Recent Going deals

• Dallas to Mexico City for $249 roundtrip
• Miami to Mexico City for $261 roundtrip
• Los Angeles to Mexico City for $262 roundtrip
• Baltimore to Mexico City for $272 roundtrip

Immerse yourself in Mexico City's rich history

Visit the ancient Templo Mayor ruins in the heart of the city

Located right next to the Zócalo, Mexico City’s main square, the Templo Mayor ruins are perhaps the most easily accessible pre-Hispanic site for visitors to Mexico City. Once one of the main temples of the Aztec capital—Tenochtitlán—Templo Mayor was destroyed during the Spanish conquest, and the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral was built over its remains, creating layers of Mexican history stacked on top of each other. 

• Price: Some of the ruins free from the outside; museum tickets around 100 MXN ($5.50 USD)
• Area: Zócalo / Centro Histórico
• Distance from city center: In the heart of the historic center

Soak in the views from the Torre Latinoamericana

Located opposite Bellas Artes, the Torre Latinoamericana was the tallest skyscraper in Latin America when it was built in 1956. Several buildings have since dwarfed the Torre Latinoamericana, but its observation deck on the 44th floor still provides unparalleled views of the Mexico City skyline. Should you choose to grab a drink at the bar on the 41st floor, you can bypass the lines and entrance ticket and head straight up in the elevator. The views aren’t exactly the same as on the viewing deck, but they’re pretty close.

• Price: 150 MXN (~$8 USD) for the observation deck 
• Area: Centro Histórico 
• Distance from city center: 5-minute walk from the Zócalo

Explore the National Palace and Diego Rivera murals

Diego Rivera was a prolific painter and often commissioned to paint murals (unlike a lot of artists, he was lucky enough to be famous during his lifetime). You can see plenty of his works on a visit to Mexico City, especially around downtown. The National Palace houses one of Rivera’s most impressive works, but you’d be wise to also check out the murals at nearby Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso and the Museo Mural Diego Rivera, which was built to display a famous Rivera mural rescued from a hotel that was destroyed during the 1985 earthquake. 

• Price: Free admission (ID required) 
• Area: Zócalo / Centro Histórico 
• Distance from city center: Directly on the Zócalo

Learn about Aztec history and culture at the National Museum of Anthropology

Widely considered one of the world's most important anthropology museums, the Museo Nacional de Antropología houses an extraordinary collection of pre-Columbian artifacts spanning nearly 20 acres, with exhibits across 23 halls. The star attraction is the Aztec Sun Stone (Piedra del Sol), a 25-ton intricately carved basalt slab. Plan to spend at least half a day here.

• Price: 100 MXN (~$5.50 USD); free on Sundays for Mexican residents 
• Area: Chapultepec 
• Distance from city center: About 4 miles west of the Zócalo (Metro: Chapultepec or Auditorio)

Take a walking tour through the historic city center

The Centro Histórico is one of the largest and most significant historic centers in the Americas. Free walking tours depart daily from the Zócalo, or you can simply wander and discover hidden gems like the stunning Palacio Postal, the tile-covered Casa de los Azulejos, and countless baroque churches tucked between modern storefronts.

• Price: Free (tip-based walking tours available) 
• Area: Centro Histórico 
• Distance from city center: Starting point at the Zócalo

Discover Mexico City's vibrant arts and culture scene

Connect with Frida Kahlo's spirit at Casa Azul

Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul is a mainstay of Mexico City. Once the family home of the treasured painter, this museum features some of Frida’s artwork, personal objects, and the rooms where she lived and worked. Be aware that this is on pretty much every traveler’s bucket list, so the lines and wait times can get intense. 

• Price: 320 MXN (~$18 USD) for foreigners; must be booked online in advance 
• Area: Coyoacán 
• Distance from city center: 8 miles south of the Zócalo

Catch a performance of the Ballet Folklórico in Bellas Artes

Palacio de Bellas Artes is a stately marble building in downtown Mexico City akin to Mexico’s opera house. While it’s worth a visit in its own right, attending a performance of the Ballet Folklórico de México is bound to be one of the highlights of your trip. The dance troupe was founded by dancer and choreographer Amalia Hernández with just eight members in 1952, but it quickly rose to fame.

• Price: 300–1,300 MXN (~$16–$70 USD); book via Ticketmaster 
• Area: Centro Histórico 
• Distance from city center: About a half mile west of the Zócalo

Explore the trendy Roma and Condesa neighborhoods

These side-by-side neighborhoods are the beating heart of contemporary Mexico City culture. Roma is characterized by Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture, independent bookstores, and hip cafés. Condesa feels almost European with its tree-lined boulevards, particularly along Avenida Amsterdam. Both are best explored on foot.

• Price: Free to explore 
• Area: Roma Norte / La Condesa 
• Distance from city center: About 2.5 miles southwest of the Zócalo

Visit the unique Museo Soumaya

This striking silver building houses over 66,000 artworks spanning 30 centuries, including the largest collection of Rodin sculptures outside of France. The museum was built by billionaire Carlos Slim in memory of his late wife, and admission is completely free.

• Price: Free 
• Area: Polanco (Plaza Carso) 
• Distance from city center: 5 miles northwest of the Zócalo

Indulge in Mexico City's world-renowned cuisine

Embark on a food tour 

There is street food on every corner of Mexico City, but so many options can become overwhelming. Enlisting the help of experts by signing up for a food tour is the best way to explore the capital’s culinary backstreets—and avoid tummy issues by unknowingly eating at less-than-sanitary places. (To be on the safe side, always drink bottled water—never tap—and steer clear of lettuce unless you’re ordering salad from a full-service restaurant, as it’s a known culprit of E. coli.)

• Price: Tours typically range from 800–2,000 MXN (~$45–$110 USD) 

Savor mole, tacos al pastor, and pozole

No visit to Mexico City is complete without trying the holy trinity of Mexican cuisine. Tacos al pastor—marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit—have become the city's signature street food. Mole showcases the Indigenous roots of Mexican cooking. And pozole, a hearty hominy stew, is comfort in a bowl.

• Price: Street tacos start at 15–25 MXN (~$1–$1.50 USD) each 

Experience a high-end culinary journey 

Mexico City has emerged as one of the world's great dining capitals, with restaurants like Pujol, Quintonil, and Contramar earning international acclaim. Book reservations well in advance for any of the city's top tables.

• Price: Tasting menus range from 2,500–5,000 MXN (~$140–$280 USD) 
• Area: Polanco, Roma, Condesa 
• Distance from city center: Varies by restaurant

Learn the secrets of Mexican cooking in a hands-on cooking class

Many classes begin with a visit to a local market to source ingredients, providing insight into the vast array of chiles, herbs, and produce that form the foundation of Mexican cuisine.

• Price: Classes range from 1,200–2,500 MXN (~$65–$140 USD) 

Taste the difference between tequila and mezcal

You may think you know what tequila tastes like, but until you’ve sampled its four varieties side-by-side (blanco, reposado, añejo, and cristalino), you won’t discover its nuances. Those with foggy memories of doing shots of liquid fire often have their minds blown when they taste a quality tequila in Mexico—which should be sipped slowly. 

And then there’s mezcal. Tequila’s smokier cousin is made by roasting the core of the agave, which is how mezcal acquires its distinct smoky flavor. While tequila is a type of mezcal made from blue agave, mezcal encapsulates a vast array of spirits.

• Price: Tasting flights from 200–500 MXN (~$11–$28 USD) 

Explore Mexico City's green spaces and outdoor attractions

Stroll through the expansive Bosque de Chapultepec

Occupying nearly 1,700 acres on the western part of the city, Chapultepec Park is one of the biggest parks in the Western Hemisphere—it’s estimated to be twice the size of Central Park—and is often referred to as the green lungs of Mexico City. The park houses renowned museums like Chapultepec Castle, the National Anthropology Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art, but it’s also home to a zoo, a botanical garden and several restaurants. Visitors can take part in an array of activities, from hiring a boat on the lake to spreading out a blanket for a picnic with friends. 

• Price: Free to enter; some attractions have separate fees 
• Area: Chapultepec 
• Distance from city center: 3 miles west of the Zócalo

Take a scenic boat ride through Xochimilco

The Xochimilco canals are a great way to get a glimpse of what life was like in pre-Hispanic times, when crops were grown on floating gardens called chinampas. But these days, Xochimilco attracts the city’s revelers who like to party to loud mariachi music aboard trajineras—ornate flat-bottomed boats that can fit around 20 people. To avoid the crowds, the best way to visit Xochimilco is at first light. Anais Martínez from The Curious Mexican’s Xochimilco at Dawn tour takes visitors along the canals to a chinampa before enjoying a farm-to-table meal prepared by a guest chef. 

• Price: Trajinera rentals start at 500 MXN (~$28 USD) per hour 
• Area: Xochimilco 
• Distance from city center: About 14 miles south of the Zócalo

Hike through lava fields at Parque Nacional El Tepeyac

For a different perspective on Mexico City, head to Cerro del Tepeyac adjacent to the Basilica of Guadalupe. This small hill offers panoramic views and holds deep spiritual significance. The surrounding parkland provides green space and walking trails.

• Price: Free 
• Area: Villa de Guadalupe 
• Distance from city center: 5–6 miles north of the Zócalo

Enjoy a picnic at Parque México in Condesa

This Art Deco jewel in the heart of Condesa is the neighborhood's green heart, designed in the 1920s on the former grounds of a horse racing track. Locals come here to walk their dogs, practice yoga, or simply sit on a bench with a book.

• Price: Free 
• Area: Condesa 
• Distance from city center: 3 miles southwest of the Zócalo

Experience Mexico City's unique entertainment and nightlife

Attend a Lucha Libre wrestling match

Few experiences capture Mexican popular culture quite like Lucha Libre. Arena México, known as the "Cathedral of Lucha Libre," hosts matches on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Friday nights feature the biggest stars and most electric atmosphere.

• Price: Tickets start at 200 MXN (~$11 USD); ringside around 500–700 MXN 
• Area: Colonia Doctores 
• Distance from city center: About a mile south of the Zócalo

Dance the night away at a salsa club in the Roma neighborhood

For an authentic experience, head to a salsa club where locals spin and dip until the early hours. Mama Rumba is legendary for its live bands and inclusive atmosphere—don't worry if you don't know the steps.

• Price: Cover charges typically range from 100–300 MXN (~$5.50–$17 USD) 
• Area: Roma 
• Distance from city center: About 2.5 miles southwest of the Zócalo

Sip handcrafted cocktails at rooftop bars

Mexico City's cocktail scene has exploded in recent years. Some of the best views come with your drinks at rooftop bars scattered across the city. Licorería Limantour in Roma consistently ranks among the world's best bars.

• Price: Cocktails typically range from 150–300 MXN (~$8–$17 USD) 

Attend a live music performance at the Teatro de la Ciudad

For a refined evening, catch a concert or theatrical performance at one of the city's historic venues. The Teatro de la Ciudad Esperanza Iris, built in 1918, hosts everything from classical concerts to contemporary dance.

• Price: Varies depending on show, seats, and date, but generally range from 200–1,200+ MXN (~$11–$67+ USD) 
• Area: Centro Histórico 
• Distance from city center: About  a half mile southeast of the Zócalo

Shop for authentic Mexican crafts and souvenirs

Browse the stalls at the traditional Ciudadela Artisan Market

Those after handicrafts would do well to head straight to La Ciudadela, located downtown, where you'll find handmade products hailing from every corner of the country. It can be touristy, yes, but you won't find such a wide selection of keepsakes anywhere else in the capital. 

Other options for those based south of the city are Mercado Artesanal Mexicano in the Coyoacán neighborhood and the more upscale Bazaar del Sábado, a well-curated market in the San Ángel area that is only open on Saturdays.

• Area: Centro Histórico 
• Distance from city center: About a mile west of the Zócalo

Shop for unique designer goods at the trendy Mercado Roma

Unlike traditional markets, Mercado Roma is a modern gourmet food hall perfect for those seeking a more curated experience. Inside you'll find artisanal food vendors, craft beer stalls, and specialty coffee roasters.

• Area: Roma Norte 
• Distance from city center: About 2.5 miles southwest of the Zócalo

Find vintage treasures at Lagunilla Market

For antique hunters and vintage lovers, Lagunilla Market (especially on Sundays) is a treasure trove of curiosities spanning everything from Art Deco furniture to vinyl records.

• Area: Centro Histórico (north) 
• Distance from city center: About a mile north of the Zócalo

Grab traditional textiles from the Mercado de Artesanías La Cuidadela

For authentic Mexican textiles—rebozos, hand-woven rugs, embroidered blouses—the vendors at La Ciudadela specialize in these crafts. Take time to ask about the origin and technique behind each piece.

• Area: Centro Histórico 
• Distance from city center: About a mile west of the Zócalo

Venture beyond the city limits for unforgettable day trips

Marvel at the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacán

Don’t leave a Mexico City trip without visiting the Teotihuacán pyramids. Located an hour north of the city, this archaeological site is best visited on a tour, primarily for the help it provides getting there and back, as public transport options to Teotihuacán are scarce. Arrive early to avoid the crowds, and consider signing up for a hot air balloon ride to get a bird's eye view of the Teotihuacán valley. Actual flight time is around 50 minutes, depending on the weather conditions, but the tour itself lasts about 5–8 hours. It often includes transfers to and from the city, breakfast (you’ll likely be collected from your hotel before 5am so you can see the sunrise from the hot air balloon), and time to explore the pyramids. 

• Price: 100 MXN (~$5.50 USD) entrance fee; hot air balloon rides from 3,000 MXN 
• Area: State of Mexico 
• Distance from city center: About 30 miles northeast of Mexico City

Explore the charming colonial town of Puebla

Just two hours southeast of Mexico City, Puebla offers a completely different pace. This colonial gem is known for its stunning Talavera tiles, baroque churches, and as the birthplace of mole poblano.

• Price: Bus tickets from 200–350 MXN (~$11–$19 USD) each way 
• Area: State of Puebla 
• Distance from city center: About 80 miles southeast of Mexico City

Visit the picturesque town of Valle de Bravo

This lakeside town in the mountains has long been a weekend escape for locals. The town is also a gateway to the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve during winter months (November to March).

• Price: Bus tickets approximately 300 MXN (~$17 USD) each way 
• Area: State of Mexico 
• Distance from city center: About 90 miles west of Mexico City

Discover the "Magic Town" of Tepoztlán in Morelos

Nestled at the base of dramatic cliffs, Tepoztlán is one of Mexico's designated Pueblos Mágicos. The main draw is the Tepozteco pyramid, perched about a quarter mile above the town and accessible via a steep but rewarding hike.

• Price: 100 MXN (~$5.50 USD) to access the archaeological zone 
• Area: State of Morelos 
• Distance from city center: About 50 miles south of Mexico City

Mexico City's hidden gems 

• Museo del Juguete Antiguo México: One of the world's largest collections of antique toys, showcasing Mexican childhood through the decades.
• Cuicuilco archaeological site: This circular pyramid in the south of the city predates Teotihuacán by centuries—a quieter archaeological experience.
• Colonia Doctores neighborhood: Best experienced during a Lucha Libre night, offering an authentic glimpse of everyday Mexico City life.
• Temazcales: Traditional sweat lodges offering spiritual cleansing experiences rooted in pre-Hispanic tradition.

Practical tips for making the most of your Mexico City visit

Navigate the city using the efficient Metro system 

Mexico City's Metro is one of the cheapest and most extensive in the world, with tickets costing just 5 MXN (~$0.28 USD). Avoid rush hour (7–9am and 6–8pm). The Metrobús supplements the Metro for Roma, Condesa, and other areas.

Choose the best time to visit based on weather and events

The dry season (November to April) offers the most pleasant weather. Major events include Day of the Dead (late October–early November) and Independence Day celebrations (September 15–16). Also, use services like Going to find the best time to book a cheap flight and snag some discounted deals to Mexico City.

Learn key Spanish phrases to communicate with locals

While you'll find English-speaking locals in tourist areas, learning basic Spanish greatly enhances the experience. Useful phrases include "¿Cuánto cuesta?" (How much?) and "La cuenta, por favor" (The bill, please).

Grab flight deals with Going

Finding affordable flights to Mexico City is easier than you think. Going members receive alerts when airlines drop prices on routes to CDMX. You could even catch a mistake fare for a price much lower than usual.

Fall in love with Mexico City's warm hospitality and vibrant culture

Mexico City has a way of surprising visitors at every turn. It's a place where you can start your morning exploring ancient ruins, lunch on street tacos, spend the afternoon in a world-class museum, and end the night dancing to live cumbia. Take your time, venture off the tourist trail, and let the capital reveal itself layer by layer. Join Going Premium to catch the best deals to CDMX or Going Elite if you are looking to fly in luxury.

*The original article, written by Jennifer Fernández Solano, has been modified to include additional valuable tips and recommendations for travelers.