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Things to Do in Mexico City

Things to Do in Mexico City

Mexico City Mexico Travel Guide

Embrace the Outdoors

Explore Mexico City's lush areas and surrounding natural areas for exciting outdoor activities.

Hiking & Mountain Biking

Nevado de Toluca

An extinct volcano with two crater lakes. Requires moderate to strenuous hiking at high altitude (up to approximately 4,600m/15,000ft). Best visited in the arid season.

Paso de Cortés

A mountain pass between Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes. It offers scenic views and lower-intensity hiking trails.

Desierto de los Leones

A forested national park to the southwest of the city. Good for hiking and mountain biking, and visiting an old monastery.

Water & Adventure Sports

  • Xochimilco: Trajinera rides are a well-liked cultural water activity.
  • Chapultepec lakes: Paddleboat rentals are available.
  • Hot air balloon rides: Over Teotihuacan, a popular experience presenting breathtaking aerial the scenery at sunrise. Book your balloon ride here.
  • Cliff scaling: Indoor climbing gyms exist. Outdoor climbing spots appear outside the city.

Milpa Alta

  • An agricultural area south of The united mexican states City.
  • Known for nopal (cactus) production.
  • Displays rural landscapes.
  • Offers a glimpse into local farming.

Chapultepec Zoo

  • Provides free entry.
  • Houses various animal species.
  • Includes giant pandas.
  • Located within Chapultepec Park.

Cycling in the City

  • Enjoy Paseo de la Reforma on Sundays during the "Ciclovía."
  • Explore bike lanes in Roma and Condesa.
  • Paths are available in Chapultepec Park.
  • The Ecobici system offers rentals.

Seasonal Phenomenon: Monarch Butterfly Migration

The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve (2-3 hours drive away) welcomes millions of monarch butterflies overwintering from November to March. This forms a long day trip or an overnight stay.

Deepening Cultural Connections

Deepen your understanding of Mexican culture by means of these immersive workshops, performances, and festivals.

Workshops & Learning

  • Cooking classes: Popular, focusing on traditional Mexican cuisine (mole, tortillas, salsas).
  • Spanish language schools: Present intensive courses and cultural activities.
  • Art and artisan workshops: Explore silverwork, traditional pottery, or painting.
  • Dance classes: Learn salsa or cumbia.

Performances & Ceremonies

Ballet Folklórico de México

Enjoy spectacular traditional dance performances at Palacio de Bellas Artes on Sunday mornings or Wednesday evenings. Book tickets in advance.

Lucha Libre

See matches on Tuesday, Friday, or Sunday nights at Arena México or Arena Coliseo for high-flying wrestling entertainment.

Mariachi

Live mariachi bands often perform in Plaza Garibaldi and in a variety of restaurants, filling the air with authentic Mexican music.

Día de Muertos

Experience massive parades, altars, and festivities in late October and early November.

Fiestas Patrias

Major Independence Day celebrations take place in the Zócalo on September 15-16, commemorating Mexican independence.

Vive Latino

A major music festival held in March, demonstrating a diverse lineup of Latin American and international artists.

Rest and Rejuvenation

Find opportunities for rest and revitalization in the urban the atmosphere of The united mexican states City.

Spas & Wellness

  • Luxury hotels: Many high-end hotels in Polanco and Reforma provide complete-service spas.
  • Independent spas: Various options throughout the city offer massages, facials, and other treatments.
  • Yoga studios: Common in Roma, Condesa, and Polanco for classes.
  • Retreats: Yoga and meditation retreats typically occur outside the city.

Natural Healing

Hot Springs

Available as day trips outside Mexico City, like Grutas de Tolantongo or Las Estacas, for natural thermal relaxation.

Temazcal

A traditional Mesoamerican sweat lodge. Some wellness centers or eco-tourism providers outside the city make this activity available.

Traditional Healing

Locate these in specialized centers or markets, like Mercado de Sonora for traditional herbs and remedies.

Unique Wellness Concepts

Meditation Spaces

Quiet parks and gardens throughout the city offer spaces for thought and relaxation.

City Pools

Some luxury hotels feature pools for guests. No natural the coast is near Mexico City.

Cultural Workshops

Many cultural centers offer workshops that promote mental well-being and creative expression.

Mexico City After Dark

Mexico City gets busy at night having different entertainment options, from live music to clubs.

Live Music & Performance

  • Jazz clubs: Zinco Jazz Club in the Historic Center, and Parker & Lenox.
  • Rock/Indie venues: El Imperial and Foro Indie Rocks.
  • Concert halls: Auditorio Nacional hosts major acts.
  • Mariachi: Plaza Garibaldi (caution advised), various restaurants showcase live mariachi bands.

Clubs & Bars

Nightclubs & Dancing

Roma Norte, Condesa, and Zona Rosa are concentrated areas for bars and clubs. They play various genres, including electronic, reggaeton, salsa, and cumbia.

Bar Districts

Roma Norte/Condesa for numerous bars, speakeasies, and mezcalerías. Zona Rosa is known for its LGBTQ+ friendly bars and nightspots.

Late-Night Bites

Many taquerías and street food stalls operate late into the night, extending your exploring the cuisine.

Theater & Arts

Palacio de Bellas Artes hosts Ballet Folklórico, opera, and classical music. Teatro de la Ciudad Esperanza Iris and other theaters present diverse performances.

Cinema Experiences

Independent theaters and film festivals showcase a variety of local and international cinematic works.

Mezcal Tasting

Explore diverse mezcalerías for sampling and a peek into this conventional agave spirit.

Nightlife Safety Reminder

Exercise caution, especially in crowded areas like Plaza Garibaldi at night. Use reputable transport services and remain aware of your surroundings.

Retail Therapy & Local Finds

Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts, from lively traditional markets to luxury boutiques.

Traditional Markets

  • Mercado de Artesanías de la Ciudadela: A large artisan market near Alameda Central, suitable for textiles, pottery, and accessories.
  • Mercado de Coyoacán: A lively market for food, fresh produce, and some crafts.
  • La Lagunilla: A massive Sunday flea market, offering antiques, vintage clothes, and unique finds. Can be chaotic.
  • Mercado de Sonora: Known for traditional remedies and esoteric items.

Specialty Shopping

Artisan Workshops & Galleries

San Ángel's Saturday Bazaar Sábado features fine art and crafts from local artisans.

Luxury Boutiques

Polanco, especially Avenida Presidente Masaryk, showcases high-end international brands and luxury boutiques.

Independent Design Stores

Roma Norte and Condesa present independent boutiques, design stores, and fashion outlets.

Souvenir Spotlight

  • Talavera pottery and Oaxacan textiles (rebozos, embroidered shirts).
  • Silver jewelry (from Taxco) and lucha libre masks.
  • Local coffee, vanilla, artisan chocolate, and mezcal.
  • Handmade items made of leather and traditional toys.

Ethical Shopping

  • Look for "Hecho en México" (Made in Mexico) labels.
  • Buy directly from artisans or cooperatives to ensure fair wages.
  • Be wary of items made from endangered species.
  • Choose ethically sourced materials and goods.

Shipping & Customs

  • Most major shipping carriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS) conduct operations in Mexico City.
  • Customs regulations for the return journeying home apply.
  • Declare purchases as necessary to follow regulations.
  • Inquire about international shipping services at larger shops or markets.

Local Shopping Tips

Bargaining in Markets
  • Bargaining is usual and expected in traditional markets.
  • Bargain for prices politely for a fair deal.
  • Set prices are typical in boutiques and large retail stores.
Payment Methods
  • Cash (Mxn) is king for street vendors and small markets.
  • Credit cards are accepted in most formal stores and restaurants.
  • ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.

Sustainable Shopping Tips

Support artisans directly to secure equitable wages and help preserve traditional crafts. Opt for reusable bags and reduce plastic consumption while shopping.

Organizing Your Adventures

Planning Essentials

  • Check opening hours and days for attractions and museums.
  • Book popular museum tickets and tours in advance to avoid queues.
  • Map out daily itineraries to group nearby sites efficiently.
  • Learn basic Spanish phrases for better interaction and navigation.

Flexible Exploration

  • Consider independent travel for added adaptability in your schedule.
  • Utilize Mexico City's comprehensive public transport system (Metro, Metrobús).
  • Explore neighborhoods on foot for local discoveries plus secret places.
  • Allocate budget for impromptu market finds or tempting street food.