This carefully crafted Mexico City itinerary is designed to help you uncover the magic of CDMX in a long weekend, just as I have come to adore it. This gem of a city boasts a blend of dynamism and beauty that’s hard to beat anywhere else in the world. This lively metropolis can be a whirlwind for first-timers, even for those accustomed to bustling urban landscapes elsewhere. With my frequent visits and close connections to the city, allow me to cut through the clutter and introduce you to this stunning beauty!
Day 1: Unraveling the Historic Center
For your first day day in Mexico City, explore the Centro Histórico, the historical city center.
Head to local hotspot El Cardenal for breakfast. There are several locations, but head to the one at Avenida Cinco de Mayo & Calle de la Palma. Don’t miss their famous fresh baked pastries (the conchas with nata is a surefire hit) and their delicious hot chocolate!
Walk off your breakfast as you wander around the Zócalo just one block away. This main square is home to the National Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Also be sure to explore the stunning Templo Mayor archaeological site as well.
If you’re hungry for lunch, take in some beautiful views at the rooftop restaurants at Gran Hotel Ciudad de México or Zócalo Central Hotel.
That afternoon, head west along Avenida Francisco I. Madero, a bustling pedestrian street. Don’t miss the 18th-century palace Casa de los Azulejos, famous for its blue-and-white tile facade. End your journey at the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes, a gorgeous French, Art Nouveau style cultural center with rotating art exhibitions.
For a gorgeous view of it, head across the street to Sears where you can see it from their floor-to-ceiling windows. You can also stop in at the top floor cafe, but it’s usually packed & not typically worth the time.
That evening, get ready for a delicious dinner at Azul Histórico, offering traditional Mexican food in a quaint courtyard setting.
Day 2: A Tryst with History at Teotihuacan
30 miles north of the city sits Teotihuacan. Make sure to arrange a sunrise hot air balloon ride for a breathtaking of the pyramids!
Head back to the city midday to beat rush hour traffic and spend the afternoon at one of the many amazing museums in the city:
- Museo Jumex – Home to one of largest private collections of contemporary art in Latin America.
- Museo de Arte Moderno – If you’re a lover of modern art, look no further!
- Museo Franz Mayer – The central courtyard & cafe are the star here, but the extensive collection ranges from ceramics to textiles and furniture.
- MUCHO Museo de Chocolate – A museum entirely dedicated to chocolate? Talk about heaven on earth!
For dinner, head to one of the World’s 50 Best restaurants: Pujol. This Mexico City itinerary isn’t complete without a visit to this world-renowned restaurant offering contemporary Mexican cuisine, famous for their molé madre!
Day 3: Embracing Nature and Culture
Start the day by hitting up the famous Churrería El Moro for some of the most delicious churros you’ll ever have. There are many locations across the city, so you can visit any convenient to your hotel or near Chapultepec Park (your next stop for today).
Chapultepec is larger than New York City’s Central Park, complete with many things to see and do inside of the park. Hike up to wander through Chapultepec Castle, built during the Viceroyalty of New Spain. The castle is perhaps best known as the Second Mexican Empire royal residence. From here, you’ll see stunning panoramic vistas across the city that are not to be missed!
Afterward, walk around the park and make sure not to miss the famous Voladores de Papantla!
For lunch, head to nearby El Fogoncito for some of the best tacos CDMX has to offer! Don’t miss the gringa (a sort of quesadilla with pastor & pineapple) as it was invented here.
That afternoon, head to the National Museum of Anthropology, showcasing Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. A Mexico City itinerary would not be complete without this addition! The building itself is also a stunning work of architecture to behold!
When you’re ready for dinner, hit up the trendy Lalo! for some Mexican comfort food.
Day 4: Xochimilco and Coyoacán
The Mercado de Coyoacán is where you’ll begin the day. It’s a lively 100-year-old 2-story marketplace with bustling stalls of food, apparel, art, & souvenirs. You can opt to take a food tour or simply explore at your own pace.
Later that morning, take a ride through the canals of Xochimilco. It’s party central on a boat, but it’s a great anytime of the day! Make sure not to miss La Isla de las Muñecas, an island filled with decomposing, decapitated dolls hanging from trees. It’s an eery sight to behold!
In the afternoon, head to Casa Azul in Coyoacán, otherwise known as the Frida Kahlo Museum. You can also explore the streets around the house for an authentic experience in the heart of Mexico City.
That evening, enjoy dinner at San Ángel Inn. It’s a local favorite located in a former monastery. If you’re here from late July through September, order the chile en nogada (Mexico’s celebratory independence dish).
Day 5: Trendy Neighborhoods and Culinary Delights
Start your day in Condesa at the hip MAQUE Cafe. It’s a beautiful streetside setting, with indoor & outdoor seating, complete with delicious foods & pastries.
Then, wander the streets of Condesa & Roma next door. They’re known for their street art, cafes & trendy atmosphere. Stroll through Parque España and Parque Mexico before exploring Mercado Roma. Here you can enjoy a variety of delightful eats for lunch.
Later on you’ll head over to the ‘Beverly Hills’ of Mexico City: Polanco. From luxury designer shops to high-end car boutiques, this neighborhood is a sight to see! You’ll then visit the Museo Soumaya, a dazzling free-style architectural gem with over 66,000 works spanning 30 centuries of art.
For dinner, head to another one of the World’s 50 Best restaurants: Contramar. This stylish seafood restaurant is famous for their red and green grilled snapper.
Additional Days
If you have more days to add to this Mexico City itinerary, visit some of the other museums previously listed on Day 2.
You can also enjoy the hop-on/hop-off open-top tourbus, the TuriBus. I would recommend doing this on Day 1 to familiarize yourself with the entire city. You can also see if there are any additional landmarks or sites you want to explore on additional days!
If you’re an adventure junkie, you can also take a guided tour to hike one of the volcanoes surrounding the city.
Where to Stay
- Condesa DF – Located in Condesa, this hotel’s contemporary charm and artistic flair make it an unrivaled boutique hotel in the city.
- Sofitel – In the heart of Polanco is the Sofitel Mexico City, where French elegance and Mexican hospitality merge.
- Las Alcobas – Located in Polanco, this boutique hotel is unparalleled in luxury and personalized service.
- Andaz – In the trendy Roma neighborhood, the Andaz is all about modern sophistication and artistic ambiance.
- The Ritz-Carlton – This brand new luxury hotel in Polanco features timeless elegance and impeccable service.
- La Valise – A hidden gem of R0ma, this 3-room boutique hotel in a restored townhouse is unlike any other in the area!
- The Four Seasons – Old school luxury and refinement can be found here at the Four Seasons, located in the exclusive Polanco district.
- NIMA Local House – Also in Roma, this charming private residence is combined with luxury amenities for a trendy experience.
- Círculo Mexico – Urban sophistication and contemporary design combine in this hotel located in the Centró Historico.
- St. Regis – Polanco is home to this luxury chain hotel with refined, timeless elegance.
I can also secure you exclusive free perks & benefits at all of these hotels (and dozens of others across the city)! If you’re ready to plan your stay, reach out to me to book. I’d be happy to customize this Mexico City itinerary to fit whatever type of trip your heart desires!
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