Mexico City Mexico 3 Day Itinerary

Mexico City 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Historical Center & Zócalo

  • Start your day at the Historic Center (Centro Histórico) - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Templo Mayor, an Aztec temple, and nearby Museo del Templo Mayor.
  • Walk to Palacio de Bellas Artes, admire its magnificent murals by famous Mexican artists. Nearby, find Alameda Central park for a leisurely stroll.
  • Head to Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución), the city’s main square, and visit Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace.
  • Lunch at El Cardenal, located in Zócalo, known for its traditional Mexican food.
  • In the afternoon, explore Casa Azul (Frida Kahlo Museum) or visit Museo Soumaya, housing a vast art collection.
  • Dinner at Pujol, one of Latin America’s top restaurants, offering innovative Mexican cuisine.
  • Overnight at Hotel Carlota, a stylish boutique hotel in the Historic Center.

Day 2: Museums & Coyoacán

  • Morning visit to the Anthropology Museum, showcasing Mexico’s rich history and diverse cultures.
  • Head to Chapultepec Park and explore Chapultepec Castle, now a museum displaying Mexican art and history.
  • Lunch at San Angel Inn, offering traditional Mexican cuisine in a charming colonial setting.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring Coyoacán, a bohemian neighborhood famous for its cobblestone streets, vibrant markets, and beautiful courtyards. Visit Casa Azul (Frida Kahlo Museum) and Trotsky House Museum.
  • Dinner at El Destilado or Cafe Nuestro Tiempo in Coyoacán for authentic Mexican food.
  • Overnight at Hotel Quinta Maria, a charming boutique hotel in Coyoacán.

Day 3: Modern Mexico City & Xochimilco

  • Morning visit to Museo Jumex, one of Latin America’s largest private modern and contemporary art museums.
  • Head to Polanco district and explore the chic neighborhood, including Bosque de Chapultepec, Avenida Presidente Masaryk, and Antonio Sabauro Square.
  • Lunch at Contramar, offering delicious seafood dishes.
  • Afternoon activity: Take a trip to Xochimilco on a colorful trajineras boat ride. Explore the floating gardens and canals while enjoying traditional Mexican snacks.
  • Farewell dinner at Pujol or Rosetta (Polanco), both offering innovative Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Overnight at Hotel Habita, a trendy boutique hotel in Polanco.

Transportation: Mexico City has an extensive public transportation system including metro, buses, and ride-hailing services like Uber. Taxis are also available but be aware of scams, especially during nighttime.

Things to Know: Mexican pesos are the official currency; credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas but it’s always good to have some cash on hand. Spanish is the official language, but many people in tourist areas speak English as well. Always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpocketing.

Tips: Try street food from taco stands or markets for an authentic Mexican dining experience; haggle prices at local markets; and don’t miss trying mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit.