The Best Mexico City Travel Guide For Explorers In 2024
Here's the best Mexico City travel guide for explorers that will provide you with essential tips, must-visit neighborhoods, top hotels, and the best dining spots, including hidden gems and world-renowned restaurants. Whether a long or short trip, this guide will make sure it's a great experience.
Essential Tips for Your Mexico City Adventure
Let's start this Mexico City Travel Guide with some tips to get you started.
- Currency and Payments: While credit cards are widely accepted, carry some pesos for street food and markets. Don't miss out on the vibrant street food scene!
- Getting Around: Use Uber for affordable and easy transportation. Walking is the best way to explore neighborhoods, but Uber is handy for longer trips.
- Weather: Mexico City's weather is pleasant year-round, so there's no bad time to visit.
- Dining Times: Adopt the local dining schedule—lunch around 3 PM and dinner later in the evening. Some places may close for siestas, so plan accordingly.
- Trip Duration: 4-5 days is ideal for a thorough visit. If you're short on time, stay centrally and make reservations for top restaurants and museums.
Where To Stay In Mexico City
Choosing a place to stay can be daunting. Here are some top neighborhoods and hotels that we recommend, and then below that you will even see additional hotels that are not mentioned in these first recommend destinations.
Centro Historico Neighborhood
Popular Attractions: Templo Mayor, Palacio de Bellas Artes, Zocalo, Torre Latinoamericana.
Transportation: Easy access to the Metro (Zócalo and Bellas Artes stations).
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Polanco Neighborhood
Popular Attractions: Museo Soumaya, Chapultepec Park, and the National Museum of Anthropology.
Hotels: W Mexico City and Intercontinental Presidente, both offering luxury and proximity to designer shops and gourmet restaurants.
Transportation: Metro Polanco Station nearby.
Condesa – Roma Neighborhood
Popular Attractions: Parque Mexico, Parque España, and an array of cafes and boutiques.
Hotels: Condesa DF and Hotel Parque México, perfect for trendy stays.
Transportation: Metro stations like Chilpancingo and Patriotismo are close.
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Zona Rosa Neighborhood
Popular Attractions: Angel of Independence, lively nightlife, and LGBT-friendly venues.
Hotels: Room Mate Valentina and NH Collection Mexico City Reforma.
Transportation: Metro Insurgentes Station nearby.
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Top Hotels In Mexico City
Las Alcobas
Located in Polanco, this hotel combines luxury with excellent service. Close to upscale shops and restaurants like Pujol, and a short walk to Museo Soumaya.
Condesa DF
In Condesa, this hotel blends Mexican culture with modern design. Enjoy rooftop cocktails and priority seating at the trendy rooftop bar. Near Parque Mexico and great dining spots.
Ryo Kan
A serene Japanese-style guesthouse in the heart of Mexico City, perfect for a peaceful stay with a zen ambiance. Close to Condesa and Roma's vibrant areas.
Distrito Capital
Offers amazing views of Popocatépetl Volcano, modern rooms, and a top-notch restaurant by Enrique Olvera. Situated in the upscale Santa Fe district.
La Valise
A charming, luxurious three-room hotel in a 1920s townhouse. Near Roma's best cafes and boutiques. Book early to secure a stay in this exclusive spot.
Hotel Carlota
Art lovers will enjoy this hotel with its curated antiques and artworks. It's also pet-friendly. Located near Reforma Avenue, providing easy access to top sites.
Hotel Habita
Known for its contemporary design and stunning rooftop pool bar, Hotel Habita offers a modern stay with artistic touches. Located in Polanco, close to luxury shops.
Maria Condesa
This design hotel features rooms by Pineda Covalin and offers all modern comforts like Apple TV and Nespresso machines. Close to the vibrant Condesa nightlife.
Where To Eat In Mexico City
Street Food
Don't miss out on Mexico City's legendary street food. From tacos al Pastor to gringas and chicharron de queso, the options are endless. Head to Mercado Roma or street stalls in Condesa and Centro Historico.
Quintonil
A world-renowned restaurant serving fresh, artistic dishes. Ranked 35th on the world's best restaurant list. Located in Polanco, it's a must-visit for gourmet food lovers. - Going to need a reservation and there will be a dress code I'm sure.
Mercado Roma
A three-floor food market with a rooftop beer garden. It's a must-visit for its diverse dining options and vibrant atmosphere. Located in Roma, perfect for casual dining.
Pujol
A fine dining experience with traditional Mexican dishes in an elegant setting. Ranked 16th on the world's best restaurant list. Located in Polanco, reservations are essential. It has a black mole sauce that has been reheated more than 2800 times dating back to the year 2000.
Anatol
Located in Las Alcobas hotel, Anatol offers a cozy, ingredient-driven dining experience. Ideal for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
Tacos El Huequito
Famous for its Al Pastor tacos, this spot is a must-visit for taco lovers. Multiple locations across the city, with the original in Centro Historico.
Fonda Fina
A no-frills restaurant offering authentic and delicious Mexican food. Great for groups. Located in Roma, perfect for a hearty meal.
Contramar
A popular seafood restaurant with fresh, delicious dishes. Perfect for sharing family-style meals. Located in Roma, ideal for lunch.
El Cardenal
Known for the best brunch in the city, offering traditional Mexican breakfast dishes. Multiple locations, with the main one in Centro Historico.
Nevería Roxy
Serving the best ice cream in Mexico City since the 1950s. Try the Mexican fruit flavors like Mamey and Guanabana. Locations in Condesa and Roma.
Jules Basement
One of the world's best bars, known for its unique vibe and exceptional cocktails. Located in Polanco, hidden behind a fridge door in an upscale restaurant.
Daily Budget For Mexico City
- Accommodation: $50 - $300 per night depending on the hotel and location.
- Food: $10 - $50 per day. Street food is very affordable, while dining at top restaurants like Pujol can be pricier.
- Transportation: $5 - $20 per day. Uber rides are cheap and the Metro is very affordable.
- Attractions: $10 - $30 per day. Museums and historical sites often have low entrance fees, and many attractions are free.
Here is a deeper dive into the budget needed for your upcoming adventures in Mexico City!
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