Mexico City, Mexico-6-day-itinerary

Mexico City 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Mexico City International Airport (MEX) and take a taxi or Uber to your accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Zócalo, the main square in the historic center, and explore the surrounding streets to get a feel for the city.
  • Evening: Head to La Condesa neighborhood for dinner at El Pescadito, try their famous fish tacos.
  • Accommodation: Stay in the Centro Histórico or Condesa neighborhoods, both offer a range of hotels and hostels.
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds and traffic
    • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-10 am and 4-7 pm)
    • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to help you navigate

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of Anthropology, a must-see for understanding Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Afternoon: Explore the ancient Aztec temple of Templo Mayor, located in the heart of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Mexican dinner at El Cardenal, try their famous mole poblano.
  • Tips:
    • Buy tickets for the museum and temple in advance to avoid long lines
    • Wear comfortable shoes, you’ll be doing a lot of walking

Day 3: Palaces and Parks

  • Morning: Visit the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes, a mix of Art Nouveau and Neoclassical styles.
  • Afternoon: Relax in the beautiful Chapultepec Park, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
  • Evening: Head to Roma Norte neighborhood for dinner at Rosetta, try their contemporary Mexican cuisine.
  • Tips:
    • Take a guided tour of the palace to appreciate its architecture
    • Be prepared for crowds in the park on weekends

Day 4: Markets and Food

  • Morning: Visit the vibrant Mercado San Juan, a great place to try local street food and buy souvenirs.
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class at Casa de Toño, learn how to prepare traditional Mexican dishes.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at El Fogoncito, try their delicious tacos al pastor.
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for a sensory overload in the market
    • Don’t eat from street vendors that don’t have a visible sanitation certificate

Day 5: Day Trip to Teotihuacán

  • Morning: Take a guided tour to the ancient Mesoamerican city of Teotihuacán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Afternoon: Explore the pyramids and temples, including the Sun and Moon Pyramids.
  • Evening: Return to Mexico City and enjoy dinner at La Opera, try their traditional Yucatecan cuisine.
  • Tips:
    • Wear comfortable shoes and clothes for a day of walking
    • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses

Day 6: Modern Mexico City

  • Morning: Visit the trendy neighborhood of Polanco, known for its upscale shops and restaurants.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Museo Soumaya, a museum showcasing modern and contemporary art.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Pujol, try their innovative Mexican cuisine.
  • Tips:
    • Take a stroll around Polanco’s parks and gardens
    • Make reservations for Pujol in advance, it’s a popular spot

Additional Tips and Information

  • Transportation: Use authorized taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Didi. Avoid hailing taxis on the street.
  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid traveling alone.
  • Language: While many locals speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Spanish phrases to help you navigate.
  • Currency: Mexican peso (MXN). You can exchange currency at banks or use ATMs.
  • Weather: Mexico City has a mild climate year-round. Be prepared for cooler mornings and evenings.

Recommended Reading

  • “The Lonely Planet Guide to Mexico City”
  • “Mexico City: A Cultural and Literary Companion” by Nick Caistor

This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, food, and modernity, giving you a well-rounded experience of Mexico City. Enjoy your trip!