Mexico City

Some History First

Mexico City’s history is as rich and layered as its culture. Founded by the Aztecs in 1325 as Tenochtitlan, the city was built on an island in Lake Texcoco. In 1521, Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés conquered the Aztec capital and established Mexico City as the center of the colonial government of New Spain. Over the centuries, the city has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, revolutions, and the birth of modern Mexico, making it a living museum of the country’s fascinating past.

Mexico City Today

Today, Mexico City stands as one of the largest and most dynamic cities in the world. It’s a global hub for business, arts, and culture, boasting:

• A thriving food scene, from street tacos to Michelin-starred restaurants
• World-renowned museums like the National Museum of Anthropology
• A vibrant arts community with numerous galleries and cultural centers
• Modern infrastructure alongside colonial architecture and pre-Hispanic ruins

Despite its urban sprawl, the city is making strides in sustainability, with extensive public transportation and green initiatives.

Is Mexico City Safe?

Safety is a common concern for visitors, but with proper precautions, Mexico City can be a safe destination for tourists. Like any major city, it’s important to stay vigilant and follow these guidelines:

• Stick to well-traveled areas, especially at night
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Keep valuable items secure and out of sight
• Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded places

While certain areas of the city should be avoided, popular tourist zones are generally safe and well-policed.

Where is Mexico City?

Mexico City is located in the Valley of Mexico, a large valley in the high plateaus in the center of Mexico. Situated at an altitude of about 2,240 meters (7,350 feet) above sea level, it’s surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. This unique geography contributes to the city’s mild climate but also to its air quality challenges.

What is the Best Time to Visit Mexico City?

The best time to visit Mexico City is during the dry season, from November to April. During these months, you can expect:

• Pleasant daytime temperatures ranging from 21°C to 26°C (70°F to 79°F)
• Minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor exploration
• Numerous cultural events and festivals

However, the city is a year-round destination. The rainy season (May to October) brings afternoon showers but also lush green landscapes and fewer crowds.

How to Get to Mexico City & Around

Getting to and around Mexico City is relatively easy thanks to its well-developed transportation infrastructure:

• By Air: Fly into Mexico City International Airport (MEX), the largest airport in Latin America.
• Airport Transfer: Use official airport taxis or pre-book a shuttle to your hotel.
• Public Transportation: The extensive Metro system and Metrobús lines offer affordable ways to navigate the city.
• Taxis and Ride-sharing: Official sitio taxis and apps like Uber are safe options for getting around.
• Car Rental: Consider renting a car for day trips outside the city, but be prepared for heavy traffic within the city.

Things to Do in Mexico City

Mexico City offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors:

• Visit the historic center (Zócalo), including the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace
• Explore the ancient Aztec ruins of Templo Mayor
• Spend a day at the world-class National Museum of Anthropology
• Take a stroll through the sprawling Chapultepec Park and visit its numerous museums
• Experience the vibrant neighborhood of Coyoacán, home to the Frida Kahlo Museum
• Float along the canals of Xochimilco on a colorful trajinera boat
• Witness a lucha libre wrestling match for a unique cultural experience
• Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, an important religious site

Where To Stay In Mexico City

Mexico City offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference:

• Polanco: Upscale neighborhood with luxury hotels and high-end shopping
• Roma and Condesa: Trendy areas with boutique hotels and a vibrant nightlife scene
• Centro Histórico: Perfect for history buffs, with hotels in colonial buildings
• Coyoacán: Quieter, more residential area with charming bed and breakfasts

Consider your itinerary and preferred attractions when choosing your accommodation, as Mexico City is vast and traffic can be heavy.

What To Eat In Mexico City

Mexican cuisine is renowned worldwide, and Mexico City is a food lover’s paradise. Don’t miss these culinary experiences:

• Tacos al pastor: Spit-grilled pork tacos, a city specialty
• Chilaquiles: A popular breakfast dish of tortilla chips in salsa
• Pozole: A hearty soup perfect for colder days
• Tostadas: Crispy tortillas topped with various ingredients
• Churros: Deep-fried dough pastries, often served with chocolate
• Mezcal: Try this traditional agave spirit in one of the city’s mezcalerías

For the adventurous, don’t miss the opportunity to try exotic dishes like escamoles (ant larvae) or huitlacoche (corn fungus).

Entry & Exit Requirements

For most visitors, entering Mexico is straightforward:

• Tourists from many countries, including the US and Canada, don’t need a visa for stays up to 180 days
• A valid passport is required, with at least six months validity beyond your planned stay
• You’ll need to fill out a tourist card (FMM) upon arrival, which you must keep and present when leaving the country

Always check the latest requirements with your country’s foreign office or the Mexican embassy before traveling.

What To Pack For Your Trip

When packing for Mexico City, consider the following essentials:

• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city
• Layers of clothing for variable temperatures
• Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection
• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
• A light rain jacket if visiting during the rainy season
• Power adapter if needed (Mexico uses type A and B plugs)
• Basic Spanish phrasebook or language app

Remember, Mexico City’s high altitude can affect some visitors, so pack any necessary medications and consider altitude sickness remedies.

FAQs