Mexico City is located in the heart of Mexico at an altitude of over 2,200 meters. You might not notice it right away, but that elevation affects the climate. The climate in Mexico City is mild: in summer (May-September) it’s warm but not too hot, with the occasional heavy rain shower. In winter (November-February) it’s dry and sunny, but it can get chilly at night. My tip: bring layers, and don’t forget your sunscreen – the sun burns intensely at this altitude!
Mexico City is enormous, chaotic and fantastic. And yes, the question comes up: is Mexico City dangerous? Fortunately, I can say: Mexico City is safe, as long as you take standard precautions. Stay away from unfamiliar neighborhoods late at night, watch your belongings, and preferably use Uber or registered taxis. I felt very comfortable there, in any case.
CDMX as the locals call it, is a vibrant metropolis that has everything: culture, history, delicious food and colorful neighborhoods. During my trip I discovered countless sights and typically Mexican things you really shouldn’t miss. Below is a quick list of my favorite things to do in Mexico City:
- Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum (the Blue House!)
- Go to a Lucha Libre show with tacos, beer and mezcal (my personal recommendation!)
- Enjoy the view from the Torre Latinoamericana
- Party along on a colorful boat tour in Xochimilco (including unlimited drinks!)
- Take a bike tour with Baja Bikes and discover the city in a unique way
- Visit the Cathedral of Mexico, the Zócalo and the National Palace
- Taste the best Mexico street food in La Roma and Condesa
- Plan a day trip to Puebla City or Guadalajara City
- Celebrate Día de los Muertos the way Mexicans do
1. The Baja Bikes bike tour: the way to discover CDMX
Want to get to know Mexico City in an active and fun way? Then I really recommend the bike tour in Mexico City by Baja Bikes. Together with a local guide you’ll cycle past the city’s most beautiful spots, including Parque Chapultepec, the historic center and the colorful streets of La Roma. Along the way the guide tells you all about the history, culture and gives you tips for great food in Mexico. You’ll see in a few hours what would otherwise take you days! A great tip to start your city trip this way. Book your bike tour here. Read more about the bike tour in Mexico City in this blog.
2. The Blue House: Frida Kahlo Museum
One of the most beautiful places in Mexico? Without a doubt the Blue House in Mexico City if you ask me. This is the house where Frida Kahlo was born, lived and died. It’s now a beautiful museum that gives a unique glimpse into her life, her art and her love for Diego Rivera. Visit this wonderful house but book your ticket well in advance (they sell out quickly). Via this link you can book a ticket for The Frida Kahlo Museum. 
3. Lucha Libre: wrestling with mezcal and tacos
A unique experience in Mexico City? Go to a Lucha Libre show! Masks, acrobatics and plenty of spectacle – it’s so Mexican. I visited the show including tacos, beer and mezcal via this ticket and it was truly one of the highlights. Don’t forget to buy your own mask as a souvenir!
4. The view from the Torre Latinoamericana
For a panoramic view over Mexico City (CDMX), a visit to the Torre Latinoamericana is a must. This iconic skyscraper in the heart of the historic center offers one of the best viewpoints in the city. With your ticket you have access to the mirador, the tower’s highest observation platform, where you have a spectacular 360-degree view over the sprawling metropolis. On clear days you can even see the volcanoes Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl on the horizon. The view is especially breathtaking at sunset, when the city bathes in a golden glow and the lights slowly come on. Besides the view, there’s also a small exhibition about the history of the tower and the city. An absolute must for anyone who wants to admire CDMX from above! You can easily book tickets here.
5. Xochimilco: colorful boats and drinks
One of the most cheerful outings I did was the boat party in Xochimilco. You step onto a colorful trajinera (traditional boat), cruise through the canals while a mariachi band plays and you enjoy unlimited drinks. It’s a festive experience full of color, music and fun. I was on a solo trip in Mexico City myself and I met so many nice people here! I do recommend making a reservation in advance for the boat party in Xochimilco, you can buy tickets here.
6. Street food, typical Mexican things and more
Food in Mexico is a celebration in itself. In Mexico City, you can find delicious dishes practically everywhere. Think elotes (boiled corn with cheese, lime and chili), tacos al pastor, and churros with chocolate. Especially in the La Roma and Condesa neighborhoods, you’ll find amazing street food and trendy spots. Tip: join a street food tour or let yourself be guided by the smell of grilled corn.
5 tasty tips for street food or Mexican restaurants:
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Taquería Los Cocuyos – A tiny stall in the historic center famous for its juicy tacos de suadero and other meat options. Raw, authentic and absolutely delicious.
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El Vilsito – A garage by day, a taco sanctuary by night. Especially known for its tacos al pastor, praised as some of the best in the city.
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Tostadas Coyoacán (in Mercado de Coyoacán) – Here you’ll taste crispy tostadas with diverse toppings, from ceviche to chicken in mole.
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Pujol – For a modern and refined experience of Mexican cuisine. World-renowned and a must if you want to dine in a more luxurious culinary setting.
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Contramar – In the Roma neighborhood, beloved for its fresh seafood and famous tuna tostada. Perfect for a stylish lunch.
Enjoy your meal – or as they say in Mexico: ¡Buen provecho!
7. Day trips from Mexico City
Do you have some extra time during your trip? Then Puebla and Guadalajara are two cities that are absolutely worth a visit and easily accessible from Mexico City.
Puebla, about a two-hour drive from CDMX, is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, colorful streets and baroque churches. The city is a true paradise for lovers of culture and gastronomy. One of the most delicious dishes that originates here is mole poblano – a rich, complex sauce with ingredients like chili peppers, nuts and chocolate, often served over chicken. Also be sure to visit the charming Barrio del Artista neighborhood or stroll through the artisan market El Parián for handmade souvenirs.
Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city, is a bit further away (about six hours by bus or an hour by plane), but is more than worth the journey. This vibrant city is the birthplace of mariachi music and of course also the home of tequila – the town of Tequila itself is nearby and perfect for a day trip or distillery tour. Guadalajara combines modern flair with tradition and offers a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful plazas, lively markets and a rich cultural life.
Both cities show you a completely different side of Mexico than CDMX and make your trip even more diverse!
8. Día de los Muertos in Mexico City
Are you traveling to Mexico in October or early November? Then you have the unique chance to experience Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) – one of the most special and meaningful traditions in the country. During this period, life is celebrated and deceased loved ones are commemorated in a colorful and loving way.
In the days around November 1st and 2nd, you’ll see beautiful altares (offering altars) everywhere in Mexico City, decorated with photos, candles, papier-mâché decorations and orange cempasúchil flowers (marigolds), which symbolize the sun and life after death. Skeletons, sugar skulls (calaveras) and people dressed as La Catrina, the iconic female skeleton with a hat, appear everywhere.
In CDMX, the atmosphere is magical. Don’t miss the impressive Día de los Muertos parade that takes place in late October or early November on Paseo de la Reforma – a colorful procession full of music, dance and giant puppets. Additionally, these are real must-sees during this period:
| Location | What can you expect? |
|---|---|
| Zócalo (the main square) | Large altars and art installations, often with cultural performances on the square. |
| Museo Anahuacalli | Museum with special Día de los Muertos exhibitions in a mystical atmosphere. |
| Mixquic | Neighborhood known for very traditional celebrations, including night vigils at the cemetery among candlelight and flowers. |
| San Andrés Mixquic or Xochimilco | Authentic, local atmosphere. In Xochimilco you can join a special Día de los Muertos boat ride on a trajinera. |
| Museo Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul) | Museum with a special altar in honor of the holiday, reflecting Frida’s love for Mexican traditions. |
It’s a time full of emotion, color and spirituality, where you feel the true heart of Mexican culture beating. An unforgettable experience that gives your trip a deep and meaningful dimension.
Frequently asked questions about Mexico City
Is Mexico City safe?
Yes, as long as you use common sense. Avoid unfamiliar neighborhoods at night, take Uber rather than random taxis, and keep an eye on your belongings.
What’s the climate like in Mexico City?
Mild and pleasant, with dry winters and warm summers. Due to the high altitude (2,200 meters), it can get chilly at night.
What are must-dos in Mexico City?
Bike tour with Baja Bikes, Frida Kahlo Museum, Lucha Libre, Torre Latinoamericana, and the Xochimilco boat party.
What are typical Mexican things?
Street food, mariachi music, colorful markets, Día de los Muertos, and luchadores (wrestlers).
Where can I find the most beautiful places in Mexico?
Besides Mexico City itself, Puebla and Guadalajara are real highlights.
What should I eat in Mexico?
Tacos al pastor, elotes, tamales, mole poblano, and churros. And of course: mezcal or tequila!
Is Mexico City suitable with kids?
Absolutely! Think of Chapultepec Park with its zoo, museums, and playgrounds. The Frida Kahlo Museum and colorful Xochimilco are also fun for the whole family. Just watch out for the busy traffic.
How long should you go to Mexico City?
I recommend at least 4 to 5 days. That gives you enough time for the highlights, street food, and a day trip to Puebla or Teotihuacán.
What’s the best way to travel around Mexico?
Within CDMX, I prefer using Uber or the metro (especially during the day). For longer distances, domestic flights, luxury buses, or rental cars are handy. You can easily fly to cities like Guadalajara or Oaxaca.
What’s happening according to the Mexico agenda?
Mexico City has festivals, exhibitions, and events year-round. Think of Día de los Muertos (Nov), the Festival de Flores in Coyoacán (Apr), or the annual Pride (Jun). Check local listings or ask at your hotel.
Do you need vaccinations for Mexico?
DTP and Hepatitis A are recommended. Consult your doctor or travel clinic for current advice.