Things to do in
Mexico City

Get in: by plane

Benito Juárez International Airport is located in the eastern part of Mexico City, making it easily accessible for travelers coming from different parts of the city. Also, the newest airport called Felipe Ángeles International Airport is another option to get to Mexico City. It´’s located in the municipality of Tecámac, in the State of Mexico, which is in the eastern part of the Greater Mexico City metropolitan area.

✈️ Flight deals to Mexico City.

You can get to the city by:

• Taxi 🚕:  You can book an airport transfer here.
• Uber: You can use services like Uber, Cabify, or Didi to get from the airport to your destination.
• Bus: There is a complimentary shuttle bus that runs between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 (Benito Juarez Airport).

Get in: by bus

The city has four main bus stations located in different compass directions:

• North Terminal (Terminal Central Autobuses del Norte): Located at Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas No. 4907, Colonia Magdalena de las Salinas. Buses to/from U.S. border towns and various destinations in western and northern Mexico.
• West Terminal (Terminal Central Autobuses del Poniente): Also known as Terminal de Autobuses Observatorio. Situated at Sur 122 y Rio Tacubaya, Del. Álvaro Obregón, Col. Real del Monte. Services destinations in the western part of Mexico, including Colima, Manzanillo, Morelia, and Puerto Vallarta.
• South Terminal (Terminal Central del Sur): Located at Av. Tasqueña 1320, Colonia Campestre Churubusco. Offers buses to southern Mexico, including Acapulco, Cuernavaca, Taxco, and various places in Colima, Guerrero, Morelos, and the southern part of Mexico state.
• East Terminal (Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente – TAPO): Found at Calzada Ignacio Zaragoza 200, Colonia 10 de Mayo Venustiano Carranza. Provides services to eastern and southeastern states, including Veracruz, Puebla, Hidalgo, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Yucatan, Quintana Roo, Tlaxcala, Tamaulipas, Campeche, Tobasco, and the Guatemalan border.

Traffic can be congested during peak hours (9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.) so allow extra travel time, including to/from the terminals, to avoid missing your bus or connections.

Get around

In busy central neighborhoods like Chapultepec, Zona Rosa, and Centro Historico, traffic and crowds can be very intense, especially during rush hours. Walking is often just as quick as other options. Fortunately, these areas are safe during the day, and you’ll find something interesting on every block. But keep in mind that the central area is quite large, so taking a bus to rest your feet might be a good idea.

Places to visit by foot:

• Condesa and Roma
• Coyoacán
• Paseo de la Reforma
• Ciudad Universitaria
• Cineteca Nacional (National Film Archive)
• Ciudadela crafts market

Where is Mexico City located?

Mexico City, also known as Ciudad de México (CDMX) in Spanish, is located in the Valley of Mexico (Valle de México), which is a highland valley in the southern part of Mexico. It is situated in the southern-central region of the country and is the capital and largest city of Mexico. The city’s coordinates are approximately 19.4326 degrees North latitude and 99.1332 degrees West longitude.

Is it safe to travel to Mexico City?

Yes, Mexico City is generally safe for tourists. Like any major city, it’s essential to exercise caution and stay aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-traveled areas, use reputable transportation, and follow local advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Avoid unforeseen events and take with you an insurance policy that covers any problem on your trip. 

What to pack?

When packing for Mexico City, pack a mix of lightweight clothing for mild to warm weather, including T-shirts, shorts, jeans, and sweaters for cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are essential and don’t forget sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for sun protection. Bring a reusable water bottle, Spanish phrasebook, and a small backpack for daily essentials.

Carry essential travel documents, including your passport, visa, and identification. Pack prescription medications, a travel adapter, and some Mexican pesos in cash. Consider a rain jacket or umbrella during the rainy season (June to October), and bring a camera, charger, and personal toiletries, or purchase them locally if needed.

Which is the best time to visit Mexico City?

The best time to visit Mexico City is during the dry season from November to April, as the weather is more pleasant with less rainfall. However, the city’s mild climate makes it a year-round destination for travelers to enjoy its diverse offerings.

Are there any kid-friendly activities and entertainment in Mexico City?

Kids can explore Chapultepec Park, which houses the Chapultepec Castle, the National Museum of Anthropology, and a zoo. The Papalote Museo del Niño offers interactive exhibits on science and technology. Families can enjoy Six Flags and Aztlán Park, an amusement park within Chapultepec Park with rides for all ages.

On Sundays, Paseo de la Reforma closes to traffic, providing a great place for biking and strolling. Don’t miss a ‘trajinera’ ride in Xochimilco, where kids can enjoy mariachi music and snacks. The Interactive Science Museum Universum and KidZania in Santa Fe offer educational and fun experiences. Finally, Coyoacán, with its museums and colorful streets, is perfect for family outings.

Are there any dress codes and cultural norms to follow in Mexico City?

When visiting Mexico City, it’s essential to be mindful of dress codes and cultural norms. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or conservative neighborhoods, by avoiding revealing clothing like short shorts or low-cut tops. Consider dressing up when dining in upscale restaurants or attending cultural events. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable for exploring the city’s streets.

Protect yourself from the strong sun with sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors. Mexicans are generally friendly, so use polite greetings like “buenos días” or “gracias.” Tipping is customary, with 10-15% of the bill being typical in restaurants. Additionally, you can say “provecho” to someone who is still eating every time you go out of a restaurant. Also, always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Mexicans may stand close when conversing, so respect personal space differences for a culturally sensitive experience.

Are there any sustainable travel initiatives in Mexico City?

The city encourages eco-friendly transportation options, such as cycling with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. There are also efforts to reduce single-use plastics and promote recycling. Many hotels and restaurants are implementing green practices, including energy-efficient lighting and waste reduction. Additionally, guided eco-tours and visits to ecological reserves allow travelers to explore the city’s natural beauty while supporting conservation efforts.

Is there any internet and mobile phone access?

Yes, Mexico City offers widespread internet and mobile phone access. Most hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public spaces provide free Wi-Fi for customers. Additionally, mobile phone coverage is excellent throughout the city, with multiple carriers offering reliable service. You can easily access the internet and stay connected using your smartphone or other mobile devices while exploring Mexico City.

What cultural events and festivals are celebrated in Mexico City?

Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in late October to early November is renowned for its colorful altars and parades. Feria de las Culturas Amigas in May and June highlights global music, dance, and cuisine. Zona Maco in February is a prominent contemporary art fair. La Noche de los Museos offers free access to museums with special activities.

The Festival del Centro Historico in March features diverse cultural performances. Dia de la Independencia on September 16 includes patriotic parades and “El Grito.” Vive Latino in March is a major music festival, and Feria Internacional del Libro en el Zocalo in October gathers book enthusiasts in the historic square.

Which is the most commonly spoken language in Mexico City?

The most commonly spoken language in Mexico City is Spanish. Spanish is the official language of Mexico, and the vast majority of the city’s population speaks it as their primary language. However, due to its multicultural nature, you can also find people who speak indigenous languages such as Nahuatl, Mixtec, and Zapotec, especially in some of the outlying neighborhoods and communities within the city. English is also spoken to some extent, particularly in the tourism and business sectors.

What is the currency and exchange in Mexico City?

The currency in Mexico City, as in the rest of Mexico, is the Mexican Peso (MXN). You can exchange foreign currency for Mexican Pesos at banks, exchange offices (casas de cambio), and some hotels. It’s advisable to use official exchange services to get a fair rate. Credit cards are widely accepted in most businesses and ATMs are readily available throughout the city, making it convenient to withdraw Mexican Pesos. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted credit cards, but American Express and other major cards are also widely used.