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Getting Around Mexico City

Getting Around Mexico City

Mexico City Mexico Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Mexico City has a full spectrum of lodging options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious 5-star hotels. Unique local accommodations also include charming boutique hotels and hacienda-style stays.

Vacation rentals through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO are famous for longer stays or families, offering apartments or entire homes.

Lodging Categories

  • Hostels: Dorms and private rooms, popular in Roma Norte, Condesa, Historic Center.
  • Budget/Mid-range Hotels: Simple lodges to modern international chains.
  • Luxury Hotels: 5-star international chains (Four Seasons, St. Regis) in Polanco, Reforma.
  • Boutique Hotels: Design-focused, often in restored colonial buildings.

Vacation Rentals

Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com for apartments/homes. Good for longer stays/families.

Homestays

Arrange through language schools for cultural immersion. Less common for mainstream travel.

Camping

Not available within the city. Available inside national parks outside, for ramblers/trekkers.

Neighborhood Selection

Historic Center & Roma/Condesa
  • Historic Center: Heart of the city, rich history, colonial architecture. Central, walkable. Can be noisy at night.
  • Roma Norte / Condesa: Trendy, bohemian, leafy streets, Deco. Excellent dining/nightlife, very walkable, generally safe.
  • Both areas offer good public transport connections.
Polanco & Coyoacán
  • Polanco: Upscale, luxurious, designer boutiques, fine dining, embassies. Very safe, high-quality amenities. The priciest.
  • Coyoacán: Charming colonial streets, relaxed atmosphere. Cultural, good restaurants, safe. Further from city center.
  • Juárez (Zona Rosa): Lively, LGBTQ+ friendly nightlife, central. Can be gritty.

Booking Strategies

High Season

Make A reservation for three-6 months in advance. Highest prices.

Shoulder Season

Book 1-3 months in advance. Moderate prices.

Low Season

Book 1 month or less in advance. Best prices.

Booking Platforms

Booking.com, Expedia, Airbnb, VRBO are reliable. Check direct hotel websites.

Accommodation Recommendations

Find the best in good condition for your travel needs, from budget to luxury.

Budget-Friendly Stays

  • Hostels: Selina or Hostal Regina.
  • Basic guesthouses in the Historic Center or near Metro stations.
  • Consider locations with excellent public transportation for cost savings.
  • Many budget stays include basic breakfast.

Mid-Range Options

  • Boutique hotels in Roma Norte or Condesa.
  • Well-rated 3-4 star hotels in Juárez or the Historic Center.
  • Properties often include more amenities like Wi-Wi-fi and some dining.
  • Book during shoulder season for a better deal.

Family & Solo Travelers

  • Family-Friendly: Hotels with more spacious rooms/suites. Vacation rentals with kitchens and multiple bedrooms.
  • Look for hotels featuring pools or kid-friendly amenities, often in Polanco or near Chapultepec.
  • Proximity to parks and safe walking areas.
  • Solo Traveler: Hostels for social opportunities. Boutique hotels in Roma/Condesa for security and amenities.
  • Choose hotels near well-lit, busy areas and public transport.
  • Always put safety first and location.

Luxury & Long-Stay

Luxury Choices

5-star international brands (e.g., Four Seasons, St. Regis) along Paseo de la Reforma or in Polanco.

High-End Boutique

Explore high-end stylish hotels in Roma Norte for different design and service.

Long-Stay

Airbnb/VRBO apartments offer weekly/monthly discounts. Serviced units are another option for longer stays.

Neighborhood Proximity to Attractions

Select your neighborhood based on your main interests and travel convenience.

Historic & Cultural Hubs

  • Historic Center: Best for Zócalo, Templo Mayor, Palacio Nacional, Bellas Artes. Excellent Metro access.
  • Roma Norte/Condesa: Good for parks, cafes, nightlife, design. Good Metro and Metrobus access.
  • Coyoacán: Best for Frida Kahlo Museum and area markets. Requires Metro/Tren Ligero to other areas.
  • Reforma/Juárez: Central with convenient access to many areas via Metro/Metrobus.

Luxury & Quiet Areas

  • Polanco: Best for Museo Soumaya, Jumex, high-end shopping. Good Metro access, further from some core sites.
  • Polanco, San Ángel are generally quieter and more serene.
  • Historic Center, Zona Rosa can be noisy owing to traffic and nightlife.
  • Many boutique hotels in Historic Center/Roma Norte offer unique a sense of history.

Safety by Neighborhood

Generally Safe

Roma Norte, Condesa, Polanco, Coyoacán, San Ángel.

Typical urban precautions apply.

Daytime Safe, Nighttime Caution

Historic Center. Exercise caution in quiet side streets after dark.

Be aware of surroundings.

Areas to Avoid

Tepito, Doctores, Iztapalapa. These are high crime areas.

Do not enter without reputable local guide.

Neighborhood Ambiance

Lively & Bustling
  • Historic Center: Lively during the day, traffic noise, can be bustling at night.
  • Zona Rosa (Juárez): Known for nightlife, can be loud.
  • Roma Norte/Condesa: Generally lively with cafes and bars, but residential roads are quieter.
Calm & Serene
  • Polanco & San Ángel: Generally calmer and more peaceful.
  • Coyoacán: Lively around main squares, but side streets are calmer.
  • Reforma: Business district feel, busy with traffic but less residential noise.

Useful Booking Advice

  • Always check cancellation policies carefully before confirming.
  • Be aware of non-refundable rates and deposits, especially for vacation rentals.
  • Prices are significantly higher during high season and major events.
  • The lowest the rates are typically found during the low season (May, June, September).
  • Walk-in rates are generally fixed at most established hotels; negotiation is rare.
  • For long-term stays, Airbnb and VRBO often offer weekly or monthly discounts.
  • Consider serviced self-catering units for extended visits.
  • Check local booking platforms or direct hotel websites for specific deals.

Cultural Significance & Safety

Many hotels reflect the city's rich history, presenting an unique ambiance.

Historically Significant Properties

  • Many small the Historic Center.
  • Properties in Roma Norte often feature restored colonial mansions or Art Deco buildings.
  • These provide an unique historical and cultural ambiance.
  • Full engagement with the city's architectural heritage.

Ensuring Personal Security

  • For all accommodation types, verify security features.
  • Check reviews regarding safety and employees responsiveness.
  • Opt for properties with 24-hour reception or secure entry.

Specialized Stays

Boutique Experience

Many charming, design-focused boutique hotels. Often in restored colonial buildings.

  • Unique design
  • Personalized service
  • Distinct ambiance
Hacienda Style

Hotels outside of urban center may incorporate elements of traditional hacienda architecture.

  • Traditional architecture
  • Spacious grounds
  • Relaxed setting
Serviced Apartments

Ideal for business travelers or long-term visitors needing home-like amenities.

  • Kitchen facilities
  • Housekeeping services
  • Privacy and comfort

Avoiding Accommodation Pitfalls

Cautions
  • Beware of deals that appear too good to be true, especially for luxury properties.
  • Always read recent reviews before booking, especially for small b&bs.
  • Verify the specific place to ensure it aligns with your safety preferences.
Verification Steps
  • Cross-reference property details across multiple booking platforms.
  • Contact the property directly with any kind of questions about amenities or services.
  • Look for up-to-date photos and virtual tours where possible.

Ambiance & Experience

The chosen neighborhood greatly shapes your complete Mexico City experience.

Urban Ambiance

  • Historic Center: Experience constant activity, street performances, and cultural events.
  • Roma Norte/Condesa: Enjoy bustling cafes, lively bars, and a young, trendy atmosphere.
  • Juárez (Zona Rosa): Nightlife-focused with a diverse and energetic vibe.
  • Markets and street vendors add to the urban soundscape.

Relaxed & Upscale Retreats

  • Polanco: Offers a sophisticated, quiet, and highly manicured environment.
  • San Ángel: Known for its tranquil, artistic atmosphere and cobblestone streets.
  • Coyoacán: Provides a distinct, relaxed atmosphere around its main squares, quieter on side streets.
  • Luxury hotels on Reforma offer serene escapes within a business district.

Noise Levels

Expect higher noise levels in the Historic Center and Zona Rosa, quieter in Polanco and San Ángel.

Walkability

Roma, Condesa, Coyoacán, and the Historic Center are highly pedestrian-good for exploration.

Local Feel

Coyoacán and Historic Center offer a more "authentic" Mexican experience than Polanco.

Selecting Your Ideal Stay

Consider Your Priorities
  • What is your budget for accommodation?
  • Which attractions are most important to you?
  • Are you seeking a lively atmosphere or a peaceful retreat?
Match Your Style
  • Align your accommodation choice with your preferred travel style.
  • Research neighborhoods in-depth before making a decision.
  • Book early, especially for high season or special events.

Mexico City Travel Note

Mexico City is a vast and diverse metropolis.

Consider proximity to attractions, transport links, and desired ambiance when finalizing your accommodation plans.

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