Curated Recs for Mexico City & Surroundings-- local imersion around the best neighbourhoods, food experiences and cultural wonders. 

30+ Curated Recs for Mexico City & Surroundings

This guide is divided by neighbourhoods with curated recs on places to stay, eat, experiences and cultural immersions. 

The historic heart of Mexico City, Centro is a bustling hub of activity and cultural richness. From grand colonial buildings and historic landmarks to vibrant markets and lively plazas, Centro is steeped in history and offers endless opportunities for exploration.

 Bellas Artes Palace of Fine Arts is a wonder both from the outside and inside. 

You should check their itinerary on events closer to the day you are arriving. New events pop up all the time, of you see Ballet Folklórico de Amalia Hernández, I highly recommend going- it's one of the most amazing and iconic events in the year on Mexican traditional dances and ballet. 

Cartelera Bellas Artes

The best views of Bellas Artes Palace of Fine Arts come from Finca Don Porfirio. You enter through 'Sears', right on the other side of the street, straight in front of Bellas Artes. Ask for a table with a view.

Visit the City's Cathedral. A marvel in itself architectonically and historically. Just a few blocks from Bellas Artes. 

Next to the cathedral there are some ancient ruins that you can go inside and explore.  They take up around 1 hour to explore them and are very worth it. 

Right next to the temple, a great place to eat at is El Mayor, a rooftop restaurant and bar in the 3rd floor, a block away from the Mexico Zócalo. Good Mexican food with amazing views over the Templo Mayor, which is right next to it.  

Another local favourite is Malaquita. Known for it's laid back vibe and great cocktails. You have to try the Sopes de Cochinita Pibil (pulled pork in corn dough).  A local's favourite at the moment! 

Chic and cosmopolitan, Condesa feels like a blend of European charm and modern elegance. It has plenty of building with beautiful Art Deco architecture. Very laid-back yet sophisticated ambiance.

Walking around Parque México and Avenida Amsterdam is an incredible way to feel local life, to meet people and hop into the vibrant cafés, restaurants, that speak to you. In Parque Mexico there is always people walking their dogs, talking and just going about their day. I always loved going here and staying of a while, perhaps even having a conversation. 

What I love doing most around Condesa is literally walking. It is such a fast changing neighbourhood that there is always something new to discover. My absolute favourite pathway to walk around is Avenida Amsterdam. 

If you are looking for a wide selection of Mexican craft beers then Trappist is an ideal place for you.

La Clandestina is a classic in Condesa, where you can get house craft mezcal cocktails, or order mezcal to sip on from a traditional glass mezcal cup. Ask the bartender for their cocktail recommendations based on seasonal fruits. 

Juarez neighborhood has a very vibrant energy with its bustling streets, trendy cafes, and eclectic shops. With a dynamic fusion of culture and modernity as you explore this lively district, known for its thriving arts scene and cosmopolitan ambiance. A neighbourhood that is fast becoming the trendiest one. 

Have breakfast at Petit Roquefort (the Egg Sandwich and Chilaquiles are some of the best!). 

Elegant and dynamic, Reforma is Mexico City's iconic boulevard lined with skyscrapers, historic monuments, and upscale hotels. From the iconic Angel of Independence to the lush Chapultepec Park, Reforma offers a mix of modernity and green spaces, making it a prime destination for both business and leisure travelers. 

The Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Museum of Anthropology) is a cultural gem, housing an extensive collection of artifacts representing Mexico's diverse indigenous cultures. You get to learn a lot of the fascinating world of pre-Hispanic civilizations and gain a deeper understanding of Mexico's rich heritage. I highly recommend doing this one before going to the Teotihuacán's pyramids, you get to learn so much. If you love museums, highly recommend dedicating at least 2 hours for it, it's HUGE and amazing! 

The Castillo de Chapultepec museum, perched atop Chapultepec Hill, offers panoramic views of Mexico City and showcases the country's history within its regal walls,- a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. The only royal palaces in North America which were inhabited by monarchs and you get to see how some of the rooms were. 

If you like seeing the city from the top, this rooftop is frequented by plenty of locals and its amazing. 

Vibrant and eclectic, the Roma neighborhoods are known for their bohemian atmosphere, tree-lined streets, and artistic flair. With a bunch of hip cafes, trendy boutiques, and cultural spaces, they are ideal for those seeking a dynamic and creative environment. One of my fave neighbourhoods where you get to meet plenty of locals and foreigners alike. 

For a yummy thing to eat here are my recs around here as well:

 Enjoy a night out around the Avenida Álvaro Obregón and hop into some (or all) of these amazing bars:

Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique cultural experience in Mexico City. Visitors can explore the ancient Aztec canals aboard colorful trajineras (traditional boats), immersing themselves in vibrant floating markets, lively mariachi music, and picturesque scenery. It's a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of Mexico's rich history and vibrant traditions, one of the most incredible experiences. 

This is a tour of Xochimilco by boat with food and drinks, and eating tacos on a floating island:

You can choose to go at 8:30, 10:00 or 12:00pm. And the best way to arrive there is by uber, as it takes approximately 45 minutes from your hotel. 

30+ Curated Recs for Mexico City & Surroundings

Buy to unlock full guide