If Rio de Janeiro and Paris had a baby, it would be Mexico City. Like Brazil, this city is full of vibrant colors, music, and food. And like Paris, this city is a fashion runway with beautiful museums and history that rivals the City of Light.
You need at least a week to do this city any justice, and that includes a few days to Pueblo. Unfortunately we only had four days to explore leaving us wanting more. Here's our recommendations for how to maximize your time in this beautiful city.
Day 1: Drop your bags off at your hotel and run to Chapultepec Castle for beautiful views, a secret garden, fountains, and a palace that makes you feel like you're transported to Europe.
Walk past Glorieta de los Insurgentes and head toward The Angel of Independence for a quick photo op. Then walk to the hip Mercado Roma, a indoor food hall of delicious options ranging from tacos to local beers to churro ice cream sandwhiches!
Day 2: Wake up early for a 7am pick up to go to the famous Pyramids at San Juan Teotihuacán. Splurge for a private tour with an archieologist as you'll get a better experience compared to the larger tour groups. Don't forget your hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes. After the tour, head back to the hotel for a quick shower and drink by the pool, then head to Pujol or Dulce Patria for an unforgettable meal.
Day 3: Wake up early and catch an uber to the Palacio de Bellas Artes before tourists crowd the views. Then walk a block to the famous Sanbourns for breakfast in the goregous and historic building (highly recommend their fresh squeezed juices). Follow the crowds and walk to Zocalo, a huge square in Mexico City. People watch as you meander through the square, watch dancers and drumlines, over to the National Palace to visit the famous murals of Diego Rivera. Then catch an uber to the Frida Kahlo Museum (reserve tickets in advance and be sure to get a photography pass). Afterwards, walk a few blocks to La Bipo for delicious tacos and homemade salsas. End the day at Museo Nacional de Antropología.
Day 4: Sleep in and head to Eno for a delicious breakfast. Eno is also founded and owned by the chef of Pujol (#1 restaurant in Latin America). Depending on the day, plan to wait at least 30-60 mins. The wait is worth it, I promise. Then head over to the glitzy Polanca neighborhood for some shopping before jetting back to the airport.
Tips:
Stay in the Polanca neighborhood, at the Camino Real or St. Regis
Stick to uber for all rides, even the short ones. Spend the $2 and avoid meandering through side streets and neighborhoods
Reserve tickets for Frida and the Pyramids in advance
Be safe and avoid eating at street vendors
Stock up on bottled water at Circle K or something like it
Avoid wearing shorts and t-shirts unless you want to stand out like a tourist