26 Best Things to Do in Mexico City, From Fine Art to Fine Dining and Shopping

Exploring Ancient History and Culture

Dive into the rich pre-Hispanic past that lies beneath the modern cityscape. Mexico City's historical sites are a must-see.

1. Teotihuacan: No trip to Mexico City is complete without a visit to Teotihuacan, an ancient Mesoamerican city boasting impressive pyramids. Climb the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon for breathtaking views.

2. Templo Mayor: Located in the heart of the city, Templo Mayor was the main temple of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. Explore the ruins and the accompanying museum to understand the Aztec civilization.

3. National Museum of Anthropology: Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Mexico's indigenous peoples. This museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from across the country, showcasing the diversity and ingenuity of pre-Columbian societies.

Delving into Art and Museums

Mexico City is a haven for art lovers, offering a wide range of museums and galleries to explore.

4. Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul): Step into the world of Frida Kahlo at her former home, the Casa Azul. See her personal belongings, artwork, and gain insight into her life and artistic process.

5. Museo Soumaya: Admire the eclectic collection of art at the Museo Soumaya, housed in a striking architectural marvel. The museum features works by European masters, Mexican artists, and pre-Hispanic artifacts.

6. Palacio de Bellas Artes: Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Palacio de Bellas Artes, an iconic landmark in Mexico City. Admire the murals by Diego Rivera and other prominent Mexican artists.

7. Museo Nacional de Historia (Chapultepec Castle): Explore the Chapultepec Castle, which houses the National Museum of History. Discover the history of Mexico from the pre-Hispanic era to the 20th century.

8. MUAC (Museo Universitario Arte Contemporáneo): Experience contemporary art at the MUAC, located on the UNAM campus. The museum features a diverse range of exhibitions by Mexican and international artists.

Indulging in Culinary Delights

Mexico City is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse range of flavors and dining experiences.

9. Street Food Tour: Embark on a street food tour to sample authentic Mexican cuisine. Try tacos, quesadillas, elotes, and other local delicacies.

10. Pujol: Experience fine dining at Pujol, one of the world's best restaurants, known for its innovative and modern take on Mexican cuisine.

11. Contramar: Savor fresh seafood at Contramar, a popular restaurant known for its delicious tuna tostadas and vibrant atmosphere.

12. El Cardenal: Enjoy traditional Mexican dishes at El Cardenal, a classic restaurant that has been serving delicious food for decades.

13. Mercado Roma: Explore the Mercado Roma, a gourmet food market offering a wide range of artisanal products and international cuisines.

Exploring Neighborhoods and Parks

Discover the diverse neighborhoods and green spaces that make Mexico City so unique.

14. Coyoacán: Wander through the charming streets of Coyoacán, a historic neighborhood known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant atmosphere.

15. Roma Norte: Explore the trendy Roma Norte neighborhood, known for its art galleries, boutiques, and cafes.

16. Condesa: Stroll through the leafy streets of Condesa, a stylish neighborhood with Art Deco architecture, parks, and restaurants.

17. Chapultepec Park: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city in Chapultepec Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world. Explore the park's museums, gardens, and lake.

18. Xochimilco: Take a boat ride on the canals of Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the colorful scenery, mariachi music, and delicious food.

Shopping and Entertainment

From luxury boutiques to bustling markets, Mexico City offers a wide range of shopping and entertainment options.

19. Polanco: Indulge in luxury shopping at Polanco, an upscale neighborhood with designer boutiques and high-end restaurants.

20. La Ciudadela Market: Browse through the La Ciudadela Market, a traditional artisan market offering a wide range of handicrafts, souvenirs, and folk art.

21. Lucha Libre: Experience the excitement of Lucha Libre, Mexican professional wrestling. Cheer on your favorite wrestlers and enjoy the energetic atmosphere.

22. Teatro Metropolitan: Catch a show at the Teatro Metropolitan, a historic theater hosting a variety of performances, from concerts to theatrical productions.

Unique Experiences

For those seeking something a little different, Mexico City offers several unique and unforgettable experiences.

23. Hot Air Balloon Ride over Teotihuacan: Take a hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan for a breathtaking aerial view of the ancient city.

24. Day of the Dead Celebrations: If you visit Mexico City during the Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos), experience the colorful and festive celebrations honoring deceased loved ones.

25. Visit the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco: As mentioned earlier, exploring the floating gardens is a must. Consider doing a specialized tour focusing on the ecological aspects.

26. Explore the Secret Rooftop Bars: Discover hidden rooftop bars offering stunning views of the city skyline. Many are tucked away above restaurants or hotels.

Quick Guide: Top Activities in Mexico City

This table provides a summary to quickly choose your activities according to your interests.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, Mexico City offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. This list is just a starting point – be sure to explore beyond these suggestions and discover your own hidden gems in this incredible city. Remember to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to embrace the warmth and hospitality of the Mexican people. Enjoy your trip!