Mexico City Mexico 5 Day Itinerary

Mexico City 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Historic Center & Zocalo

Morning:

  • Start your day with breakfast at Panaderia El Hogar, known for its fresh pastries and traditional Mexican bread.
  • Visit the Zocalo, Mexico City’s main square, home to several historic buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace.
  • Explore Templo Mayor, a Aztec temple dedicated to Huitzilopochtli, the god of the sun.

Afternoon:

  • Wander around the Museo de San Ildefonso and Palacio de Bellas Artes.
  • Visit Casa Azul (La Casa de Frida Kahlo), the former residence of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.

Evening:

  • Dine at Pujol, one of Latin America’s top restaurants offering modern Mexican cuisine.
  • End your day with a walk around Coyoacan, a charming colonial district known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and vibrant nightlife.

Day 2: Museums & Chapultepec Park

Morning:

  • Visit the Chapultepec Castle in Chapultepec Park, offering panoramic views of Mexico City.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the National Museum of Anthropology, one of the world’s most extensive collections of Latin American anthropological artifacts.

Afternoon:

  • Relax in Bosque de Chapultepec, Mexico City’s largest urban park, where you can rent a boat on the lake or simply enjoy a picnic.

Evening:

  • Dine at Café Tacuba in the Polanco neighborhood, known for its modern Mexican cuisine and lively atmosphere.
  • Explore the trendy bars and clubs along Avenida Presidente Masaryk.

Day 3: Xochimilco & Coyoacan

Morning:

  • Take a boat trip through the canals of Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy traditional Mexican food onboard.

Afternoon:

  • Return to Coyoacan and visit the Jardin Centenario and San Juan Bautista Church.
  • Browse local craft markets for souvenirs and handmade goods.

Evening:

  • Dine at El Cardenal, a popular restaurant offering traditional Mexican dishes in a cozy, candlelit atmosphere.
  • Enjoy a drink at La Olla or Jardín Bistrot, both located in Coyoacan and known for their creative cocktails.

Day 4: Teotihuacan & San Angel

Morning:

  • Visit the ancient city of Teotihuacan, home to the Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon.
  • Hire a guide to learn about the history and significance of this ancient civilization.

Afternoon:

  • Return to Mexico City and visit San Angel Inn, a beautiful restaurant located inside the Museo San Angel.
  • Explore the Plaza San Jacinto and its art galleries, boutiques, and workshops.

Evening:

  • Dine at Quintonil, another top Mexican restaurant offering innovative dishes made with local ingredients.
  • End your day with a stroll along Avenida Pedregal, known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the city.

Day 5: Modern Mexico City & Departure

Morning:

  • Visit the Soumaya Museum, housing an impressive collection of art, including works by Diego Rivera, Rodin, and Rembrandt.
  • Explore the Polanco neighborhood, known for its upscale shopping, art galleries, and modern architecture.

Afternoon:

  • Have lunch at Contramar, a seafood restaurant offering fresh, creative dishes in a casual setting.
  • Visit Bosque de Chapultepec one last time, or explore other areas of the city before your departure.

Things to Know:

  • Mexico City’s traffic can be heavy, so allow extra time for travel.
  • Spanish is the primary language, although many people in tourist areas speak some English.
  • Be aware of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
  • Mexican pesos are the local currency, but many places also accept US dollars.
  • Tap water is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled water.

Transportation:

  • The Metro is a cheap and efficient way to get around the city.
  • Uber is widely available and reasonably priced compared to other major cities.
  • Taxis are also common, but be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.