20 Things to Do in Mexico City (by a former local)

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Mexico City is a large and ancient capital with phenomenal food, art, and entertainment. The city is a meeting point for different worlds, and in this sense it has a plethora of interesting stories to share with whoever has an open mind and loves to discover cultural and historical themes.

People from all over Mexico and the world at large find themselves enchanted by the pace of daily life, which becomes abundantly apparent as one runs into a diverse selection of businesses and communities. This is what makes it an absolute treat to wander about and explore!

There is plenty to do, including many free activities, and Mexico City has a vibrant and diverse nightlife. Here is a guide for the top things to do in Mexico City, including both indoor and outdoor activities, free sights, and after-dark fun.

History of Mexico City

Originally the Aztec city of Teotihuacan, Mexico City was rebuilt by the Spanish Conquistadors in the 16th century. Christianity flourished following the Spanish invasion, resulting in Catholic architectural influences.

Mexico City continued to grow after the Mexican independence in the early 19th century. Today the city is a massive metropolis. Not only is Mexico City the capital of the county, but it also has more people than any other city in the Western Hemisphere. The city is also an economic powerhouse, however, income distribution is extremely unequal – you will see it pretty fast.

Logistics & Transportation in Mexico City

From the airport:

Mexico City is home to an international airport, Mexico City Benito Juarez. This airport is about 25 minutes from the city center by taxi.

You can also take the bus (Metrobus line 4) or the metro (Metro line 5). Taxi is the “priciest” option at about $250 MXN ($12 USD), so all options are very affordable!

You can also drive to Mexico City from other regions of Mexico, although there are travel warnings for parts of the country.

When you’re in Mexico City, you can use Uber, taxis, bus, or the metro. The metro is the cheapest and fastest option because the city has a ton of traffic. It costs 5 MXN per ride. Large bags are not permitted on the metro and the first two cars are for women and children only (but the rules are not always fully respected outside of rush hours).

If you choose the Metrobus (not mini-bus), you’ll need to buy a smartcard, and rides cost around 6 MXN per ride.

Renting a car and driving yourself is not the best option, because the streets are hectic, there’s a ton of traffic and not much parking.

Mexico’s currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN) and the best times to visit the city are in the spring (March-May). If you go in the winter, pack a jacket and in the summer pack an umbrella, as it might rain. It’s important to note that the city is elevated and that there is a lot of air pollution. It’s a good idea to bring a facemask for use when air pollution is at its worst.

Things to Do in Mexico City

1. Explore Historic Downtown

  • Zocalo

The whole city is steeped in history, but there’s no place where this is truer than the historic downtown district. Here, right beside its center square called Zocalo, lies the most impressive ruins of the original city, Tenochtitlan.

Although it’s what’s left of what’s referred to as the ¨Major Temple¨ it gives one an idea as to the scale with which the empire expressed its grandeur.

It’s where the last Aztec Emperor Moctezuma lived until he met with the Spanish there. This is a must-see for anyone who loves to look directly into what past societies were able to construct and it features its own museum.

It can be reached by subway along the 2nd line to Zocalo or Bellas Artes stations.

If you’re traveling with family you are encouraged to check out cultural calendars before you book your ticket. Lining up your itinerary with happenings in the city is an indispensable asset for when you would like to get the most out of your visit.

They can be found with ease online and you can walk from one to the next as many of them take place in the heart of the city!

  • National Palace (Palacio Nacional)

The National Palace (Plaza de la Constitucion S/N, Centro Historico de la Cdad) holds the offices of the President, Treasury, and the National Archives.

In addition, this impressive structure is home to art and history, including several murals (painted by Diego Rivera). There has been a palace in this sport since the 1500s.

The Palace is open from 9 AM-5PM Tuesday through Sunday. Make sure to bring a form of identification, which will be required upon entering. Visiting the palace is one of the many free things to do in Mexico City!

  • Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes)

The Palace of Fine Arts (cnr Av Juarez & Eje Centro Lazaro Cardenas) holds an impressive collection of works by famous Mexican artists.

The building itself is beautiful, and it also contains a theatre (which can only be seen if you attend a performance). Don’t forget to visit the Architecture Museum on the 4th floor.

The Palace is open 9AM-6PM Tuesday through Sunday and costs 70 MXN. Admission is free on Sundays. This is a good rainy day activity, but it could also be an evening adventure as you can see ballet shows at Bellas Artes.

The shows include Mexican Ballet Folklorico, which comprises traditional Mexican dance and costumes. Tickets are available on Ticketmaster and other third-party websites. Not only will you enjoy a great show; you will also be able to see the amazing architecture and design of the Palacio de Bellas Artes.

  • Alameda Central

Alameda Central (Av. Hidalgo s/n, Centro Historico de la Cdad) is a park located on the site of an Aztec market.

This park has a rich history and is home to a Diego Rivera mural, as well as an impressive amount of green space.

There is no fee to enter the park, and if you happen to be in Mexico City around Christmas, enjoy the beautiful lights and decorations!

  • Templo Mayor

The Templo Mayor (Seminario 8) was a sacred building in the middle of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan (now Mexico City).

The site is currently being excavated and archeological pieces are still being discovered. Altars, amulets, and even human bones are some of the many finds.

Visit the site as well as the accompanying museum. It’s open 9AM-5PM Tuesday through Sunday and entrance costs 70 MXN.

Or if you’re short on time try one of these tours with a local guide to direct you.

  • Torre Latinoamericana

Previously the tallest building in Latin America, the Torre Latinoamericana (Eje Central Lazaro Cardenas 2) is still a national landmark.