⚡ Before You Go — Essentials
Get Uber/Didi
Download both apps. Uber works great in CDMX. Didi is the local alternative and often cheaper. Rides across the city are $2–5 USD.
Cash is King
Street food and markets are cash-only. Withdraw pesos at bank ATMs (Citibanamex, HSBC) — avoid airport exchange desks.
Meal Timing
Comida (main meal) is 14:00–16:00. Dinner starts at 20:00+. Street tacos peak at 21:00–midnight.
Altitude Warning
CDMX sits at 2,240m (7,350ft). Stay hydrated, go easy on alcohol day one, and expect to get winded on stairs.
Ancient Ruins, Street Tacos & Mezcal
Your first day is about the historic core — Aztec ruins, colonial grandeur, and some of the best street food on the planet.
Explore the Heart of the City
Start at the Zócalo, one of the world's largest public plazas. Walk into the Palacio Nacional (free, bring ID) to see Diego Rivera's epic murals spanning Mexican history. Then head next door to Templo Mayor — the excavated main temple of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlán, sitting right in the middle of the modern city.
Palacio de Bellas Artes & Mercado San Juan
Walk to the jaw-dropping Palacio de Bellas Artes — even if you skip the museum, the Art Nouveau/Art Deco building itself is stunning. Then head to Mercado San Juan, the city's legendary gourmet market. This is where chefs shop — you'll find imported cheeses, exotic meats, and incredible seafood tostadas.
Mezcal, Views & Los Cocuyos
Head to Balcón del Zócalo for sunset drinks on the terrace overlooking the cathedral and the lit-up Zócalo. Then walk to Los Cocuyos, the legendary late-night taco stand that's been serving beef tongue, tripe, and suadero since the 1950s.
Coffee, Art Deco & Al Pastor
Today you explore Mexico City's trendiest neighborhoods — tree-lined streets, world-class restaurants, and the best al pastor trompo in the city.
Roma Norte Coffee Culture
Start with coffee at Chiquitito Café, a tiny beloved spot in Roma Norte, then stroll down tree-lined Álvaro Obregón with its sculptures and fountains. Pop into Librería Rosario Castellanos (a gorgeous two-story bookshop) and explore the side streets — Roma Norte rewards wanderers.
Art Deco Architecture & Park Life
Walk into Condesa and spend the afternoon wandering Parque México — watch the dogs, sit by the fountain, admire the Art Deco buildings along Avenida México. Stop at Churrería El Moro for churros and hot chocolate (a 90-year-old chain that's still perfect).
The Al Pastor Trompo Trail
Tonight is about one thing: finding your al pastor soulmate. Start at Taquería Orinoco for a fun, lively atmosphere and excellent pastor. Then walk to El Vilsito — a mechanic shop by day, taco stand by night. This is the real CDMX experience.
Frida, Floating Gardens & Pulque
Adventure day — you'll visit Frida Kahlo's blue house, float through ancient Aztec canals on a trajinera, and discover the bohemian soul of Coyoacán.
Frida Kahlo Museum & Mercado de Coyoacán
Book your Casa Azul (Frida Kahlo Museum) tickets online in advance — they sell out. The blue house is intimate and moving. After, wander the cobblestone streets of Coyoacán to the Mercado de Coyoacán for tostadas and fresh juices. Don't miss the Jardín Centenario plaza with its coyote fountain.
Trajinera Ride on Ancient Canals
Uber to Xochimilco's Embarcadero Nativitas. Hire a trajinera (colorful flat-bottom boat) and float through the canals — vendors in smaller boats will come to you selling corn, beer, flowers, and even mariachi. This is pure magic. Budget 2–3 hours.
Pulque & Coyoacán Nightlife
Head back to Coyoacán for the evening. Visit La Bipo, a lively pulquería where you can try curados (fruit-flavored pulque). Then for a more refined nightcap, try Pare de Sufrir — a mezcalería hidden behind an unmarked door.
Museum, Castle & Farewell Feast
Your final day mixes world-class culture with upscale dining — the Anthropology Museum, Chapultepec Castle, and Polanco's best restaurants.
The World's Greatest Anthropology Museum
This is Mexico's most-visited museum for good reason. The Aztec Sun Stone, the Maya jade masks, the Olmec heads — it's overwhelming in the best way. Focus on the Mexica (Aztec) and Maya halls if you're short on time. Budget 2–3 hours minimum.
Castle Views & Upscale Strolling
Walk uphill to Chapultepec Castle — the only royal castle in the Americas. The panoramic views of Paseo de la Reforma and the city are incredible. Then stroll through Polanco's leafy streets — window-shop on Av. Presidente Masaryk and visit Museo Soumaya (free, incredible art collection in a futuristic building).
Last Night in CDMX
For your final evening, head back to Roma for one last walk. End at Esquina Común, a magical rooftop dining experience in Condesa — or keep it casual with one more round of al pastor at your new favorite taquería.
💰 Budget Breakdown (per person, per day)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Splurge |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🍽️ Food & Drinks | $20 USD | $45 USD | $90 USD |
| 🚕 Transport (Uber/Metro) | $5 USD | $10 USD | $18 USD |
| 🎟️ Attractions | $8 USD | $15 USD | $25 USD |
| 🍺 Nightlife | $5 USD | $15 USD | $30 USD |
| TOTAL/DAY | $38 USD | $85 USD | $163 USD |
* Excludes accommodation. Budget hotels/Airbnbs in Roma or Condesa run $40–80/night. Boutique hotels $100–200/night.
📋 Pro Tips & Practical Info
🚇 Getting Around
- • Uber/Didi are your best friends. Cheap, safe, AC. Most rides within Roma/Condesa/Centro are $2–5 USD.
- • Metro is $5 MXN ($0.30 USD) per ride — great for longer distances, but avoid rush hour (7–9am, 5–7pm). Watch your belongings.
- • Walking is the best way to explore Roma, Condesa, and Centro Histórico. Very walkable neighborhoods.
💰 Tipping Guide
- • Restaurants: 10–15% is standard. 15–20% for exceptional service.
- • Street food: No tip expected, but rounding up is kind.
- • Uber: Tipping through the app is appreciated but not expected.
- • Propina jars: You'll see tip jars everywhere — a few coins is fine.
🔒 Safety
- • Roma, Condesa, Polanco, Coyoacán, and Centro Histórico are all safe for tourists. Use normal big-city awareness.
- • Don't flash expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash.
- • Use ATMs inside banks, not on the street.
- • Uber is safer than street-hailed taxis (always use app-based rides at night).
🌡️ Weather in May
- • Highs of 26–28°C (79–82°F). Warm and pleasant.
- • Late May is the start of rainy season — expect afternoon showers (bring a light rain jacket).
- • Mornings are cool. Evenings are gorgeous for walking.
📱 Useful Apps
- • Uber / Didi — Rides
- • Google Maps — Navigation (works great in CDMX)
- • Google Translate — Camera mode for menus
- • Rappi — Food delivery (the Mexican DoorDash)