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Mexico City   Travel Guide

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16 Best Things To Do in Mexico City

Mexico City, officially known as Ciudad de México (CDMX), is a growing and vibrant metropolis nestled in the heart of Mexico. The capital city of Mexico offers a blend of history, culture and gastronomy that attracts millions of annual visitors. From

• All Things To Do

Museo Nacional de Antropología Museo Nacional de Antropología

Located within the sprawling Chapultepec Forest , the Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Museum of Anthropology) showcases artifacts from Mexico's pre-Columbian era, dating from about 100 B.C. to A.D. 1521. Housed within the facility’s 22 rooms are artifacts, including the famous Aztec Calendar Stone, known as Piedra del Sol, as well as the ancient statue of Xochipilli, the Aztec god of art, games, beauty, dance and maize (among others). The museum offers a look at how tradition, culture and life were formed in all regions of Mexico, and it also educates visitors on how Mexico’s indigenous descendants live today. 

Past visitors said this is a must-see if you’re interested in the ancient cultures of Mexico/Mesoamerica. Reviewers appreciated that the explanatory text features English translations. The museum is so extensive that many travelers said you can spend a whole day exploring the many collections and exhibits and recommend giving yourself plenty of time to visit. As one of the largest and most visited museums in Mexico, the grounds are also home to a gift shop, a cafeteria and the National Library of Anthropology and History. 

Bosque de Chapultepec Bosque de Chapultepec free

The main park in Mexico City, Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Forest) was once the temporary home of the Aztec empire after its citizens migrated to modern-day Mexico City in the 13th century. Today, the 1,600-acre Chapultepec is Mexico City's largest park and is popular among families seeking respite from the busy and crowded city.

Divided into three sections, the park is home to many cultural interests, such as the presidential residence, the former presidential palace, a zoo and several museums (including the highly recommended Museo Nacional de Antropología ). The park also hosts numerous military monuments and effigies of Aztec kings, as well as restaurants and playgrounds, plus lots of green space for stretching. What's more, the park features a large lake, where visitors and locals alike can rent pedal boats to cruise around the water (a particular highlight for kids). On the weekends, local vendors fill the park and sell everything from souvenirs to art to snacks.

Palacio de Bellas Artes Palacio de Bellas Artes free

Considered the cultural center of Mexico City, the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts) is a must-visit. The exterior of this 20th-century palace showcases art nouveau and art deco-style architecture, while the inside features marble floors and vaulted glass windows. 

In addition to its architectural grandeur, the building hosts cultural events in the national theater, including music, dance, theater, opera and literary performances. The museum at the palace also houses several famous murals, including the work of the famous Mexican muralist Rufino Tamayo. On the top floor, you'll find the National Museum of Architecture, which showcases the work and lives of famous Mexican architects, and multiple art museums and galleries. 

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Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Zócalo attracts throngs of visitors and locals, so visit in the early morning or afternoon during a weekday to avoid the heaviest crowds. – Kayla Hui

Officially known as Plaza de la Constitución, El Zócalo is the main public square and one of the most recognizable places in Mexico City. It’s also one of the world’s largest city squares. It contains a giant Mexican flag at its center and has been the centerpiece of public gatherings since the days of the Aztec empire (it was considered the ceremonial center of Tenochtitlán). The site also hosts annual, widely attended religious events during Holy Week and for Corpus Christi, as well as fairs, concerts, and parades. Several historic buildings also border the square, including the city's national cathedral , the National Palace  and federal buildings.

Museo Frida Kahlo Museo Frida Kahlo

One of the best-known museums in Mexico City exhibits the life and work of its most famous artist: Frida Kahlo. The museum, located in the Coyoacan suburb, is also known as La Casa Azul (The Blue House), and was Kahlo's former residence. It hosts some impressive examples of her works, but travelers say that the best part of visiting the house is seeing where the artist lived and painted with her husband, artist Diego Rivera. Along with paintings by both artists, folk art, photos, documents, books and furnishings, the house also displays personal objects.

Recent visitors to the property said it's a must-see for fans of the artist, saying it shows her life and work in a very personal light. Reviewers were particularly impressed with the display of her clothing and dresses. If you want to take photos, there is an additional modest “permit” fee. 

Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe free

U.S. News Insider Tip: During the summer months, pack a hat and water bottle (there is little shade within the complex). If you plan to use the bathroom on site, bring a couple of pesos with you to use the bathroom and buy toilet paper. – Kayla Hui 

The Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe (Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe) is an important religious site in Mexico City. Construction for the first shrine built to honor the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe started in 1695 on Tepeyac Hill. However, nearly 300 years' worth of construction and environmental damage threatened the integrity of the basilica, so a new basilica was built on the same plaza in the 1970s.

Templo Mayor Templo Mayor

Before Spanish colonization, Templo Mayor served as the religious center for the Aztec people. When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the early 16th century, the temple was among many structures that were destroyed and a new cathedral was built on top of the ruins. It wasn't until 1978 that the temple dedicated to the Aztec gods Huitzilopochtli and Tláloc (gods of war and water) was unearthed in the heart of Mexico City. Today, the area remains an active archeological site and the adjoining museum houses thousands of  artifacts, including 2,500 wooden objects from the site. 

Recent visitors said it's fascinating to see the ancient ruins that are tucked away in the center of the city. Many said it's worth spending time in the museum as well, but the site and scale can't match up to the massive Museo Nacional de Antropología . Still, the whole complex has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Mexico City's most popular attractions. If you’re visiting during the summer months, travelers suggest you time your visit for the morning to avoid the sweltering midday heat. Reviewers also warn that most of the information is listed in Spanish only.

Museo de Arte Popular Museo de Arte Popular

U.S. News Insider Tip: Ditch the large bags and water bottles prior to your visit as you may be denied entry. – Kayla Hui

This folk art museum features handicrafts from all across Mexico and details the country's history and its many cultures. If you want to find out more about the country’s indigenous communities, this is the place to go, according to travelers. Exhibits include glasswork from Tecali, pottery from Michoacán, masks from Chiapas and alebrijes , the colorful painted animal figures from Oaxaca, among other treasures. Make sure to take time to admire the building itself – the 1920s art deco building was the former headquarters of the fire department.

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Chalpultepec Castle Chalpultepec Castle

U.S. News Insider Tip: Sundays are free for all residents of Mexico and expats living in Mexico, so try to avoid visiting that day if you can. It can get crowded, so it’s recommended to go in the morning when the castle first opens. – Kayla Hui

Constructed beginning in 1725, Chalpultepec Castle has served many purposes in its centuries of use; it was a military academy, an observatory, and the only castle in North America to house rulers, including Emperor Maximilian I and his wife Empress Carlota. It would later be established as the National Museum of History by Lázaro Cárdenas in 1939, which would open the castle to visitors. Located at the entrance of Chalpultepec Park , it’s a historical site that can’t be missed on your next visit to Mexico City. 

Catedral Metropolitana Catedral Metropolitana free

Mexico's national cathedral – the vaulting, austere, ornate church on the Zócalo' s north end – was once the site of an ancient Aztec precinct, so it has housed the city's spiritual core for centuries. The cathedral was built between 1573 and 1813 after the Spanish conquest of Tenochtitlan and is considered one of Mexico City's many must-see attractions. What’s more, the cathedral is one of the largest churches in Latin America. It’s believed that the materials used to construct the church were taken from the destroyed pyramids and structures belonging to the Aztecs. Highlights of the massive cathedral include five naves, 14 chapels, two of the largest 18th-century organs in the Americas, 150 windows and a painting by famed Spanish artist Bartolome Esteban Murillo.

Depending on your interest in Mexican history and architecture, you could spend anywhere from an hour to a half a day at the cathedral (it’s free to enter). Past visitors recommended paying to take a tour of the interior with a member of the cathedral’s staff, who reviewers say offer a wealth of information about the cathedral’s far-reaching history. According to recent visitors, tours cost approximately 100 Mexican pesos (about $6). Recent visitors said the massive structure is stunning to behold, and even if you don't want to take the time to explore the inside, it's worth the photo-op of the exterior. The cathedral is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and admission is free. Many of the best Mexico City walking tours make stops here, which can be another way to hear an in-depth retelling of the cathedral’s history and significance.  For more information, including Mass times, visit the cathedral's website (in Spanish).

Museo Soumaya Museo Soumaya free

From exceptional architecture to more than 66,000 featured works, Museo Soumaya is one of Mexico City’s most iconic museums. Established in 1994, Museo Soumaya’s main goal is to preserve and exhibit Mexico and Europe’s artistry. Currently, it houses the largest collection of works by Auguste Rodin outside of France, in addition to artwork by Diego Rivera, Titian, Picasso, Monet and more. 

Beyond the art, the architecture alone is worth seeing. The exterior of the six-story building is wrapped in mirrored hexagons, and the building is the brainchild of Mexican architect Fernando Romero. Recent travelers say Museo Soumaya is reminiscent of New York City’s Guggenheim (both museums are architecturally stunning and feature a circular interior with each floor organized by art type). Some reviewers recommend starting your visit at the top and winding your way down. 

Palacio Nacional Palacio Nacional free

The National Palace holds the federal executive branch of the Mexican government and sits along Mexico City's main public square, El Zócalo . The palace itself is a massive, ornate building that contains several gardens, murals and fountains in the Spanish Renaissance architectural style. Its highlights are several Diego Rivera murals painted in panoramic style across the palace's walls, which past visitors say are a must-see. These murals depict the stages of Mexican history, from pre-Columbian days to the current age.

Because the Mexican president lives and works within the palace, visitors can only access the site on a guided tour. Tours are free, but can’t be booked in advance online. According to recent visitors, you must go to the ticket office at the Museum of Art of the Ministry of Finance & Public Credit, where you can inquire about tour availability and make reservations in person (this is also where tours depart from). Some reviewers reported success booking tickets in advance by emailing [email protected] with information about the preferred tour date and number of people attending. Along the approximately hourlong tours, you’ll see the Rivera mural collections and the courtyards. You may also get the chance to glimpse the exterior of the legislative chambers. 

Museo Casa Luis Barragán Museo Casa Luis Barragán

Luis Barragán was a prominent Mexican architect renowned for his modernist style, and his former home – which was first constructed in 1947 and now functions as a museum – is one of the finest examples of his work. The museum is an off-the-beaten-path attraction that travelers say will please all, even those not schooled in architectural history. The house is known for its vivid colors, brilliant use of natural light and its impressive garden with a maze of corridors and trees. In 2004, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Recent visitors said the history of the house, in addition to its interesting architecture, is captivating. However, a handful of recent reviewers were disappointed with the ticket reservation process. To visit, you must book a self-guided or guided tour (available in Spanish and English). Self-guided visits are only available on Thursdays at select times. Tickets for self-guided tours cost 450 Mexican pesos (about $26) per person (note that children 12 and younger are not permitted in the house). Guided tours are available at select times Monday through Wednesday, Friday and Saturday Tickets for guided tours cost more. Tickets are released every Tuesday at noon (Mexico City time).  

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Torre Latinoamericana Torre Latinoamericana

Open since 1956, Torre Latinoamericana, the 44-story skyscraper in Centro Histórico, is the place to go if you want the best views of the city. Similar to the Empire State Building in New York City , this tower offers visitors jaw-dropping views from its observation deck and restaurant, making it the perfect opportunity to pull out your camera for that Instagram-worthy picture. 

Recent visitors recommended heading up to the top of the tower during sunset to admire the shifting light as it illuminates buildings like the neighboring Palace of Fine Arts. Travelers also warned that if smog levels are high, you won’t be able to see much from the tower’s peak. Some reviewers recommend spending time in the on-site museum, which details the history of Mexico City and the construction of the tower. 

Teotihuacán Teotihuacán

U.S. News Insider Tip: There is no shade inside the archeological site, so you’ll want to wear a hat. It’s also helpful to have a small backpack to hold a water bottle, sunscreen and toilet paper to use in the washrooms at the site. – Kayla Hui

One of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Mexico City region, Teotihuacán ( teh -o-tee-wa- can ) contains some of the largest pre-Hispanic pyramids in all of Mexico. The site contains many popular constructions, including the Palace of the Plumed Butterfly, which showcases various columns of winged creatures, and the awesome Pyramid of the Sun, which sits at the heart of the small city. The nearby museum, Museo de la Sitio, also holds many artifacts from the period.

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) free

The Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico (Central University City Campus of the National University of Mexico) includes 32 academic programs, the Mexican Olympic stadium, a Mexican cultural center, a nature preserve and the city's Central Library. The main campus is now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city's famous muralists have made their mark on the campus, and travelers recommend you check out the work of famous painter David Alfaro Siqueiros at the Rectorate Tower or the work of Juan O'Gorman at the Central Library. The campus also holds the University Museum of Contemporary Art, an excellent spot for viewing Mexico's more recent cultural offerings. The sculpture garden at the art museum is a particular highlight for past visitors, as is the botanic garden.

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Take a tour of the Goop cruise, where boozy vacationers lounged by the pool and dabbled in intuition classes

• I went on Goop's inaugural cruise in collaboration with Celebrity Cruises. The 5-day trip left from Miami and stopped in Cozumel and Costa Maya.
• For the most part, the ship and its amenities were typical of any cruise. Goop classes were promoted, but weren't a central part of the trip.
• I enjoyed Goop's intuition seminars the most out of the wellness offerings, but also had fun drinking at the martini bar, eating caviar, and lounging by the pool.

On October 9, I boarded Goop's latest venture, a five-day cruise on the Caribbean in collaboration with Celebrity Cruises on their Summit ship .

Gwyneth Paltrow first announced the "Goop at Sea" concept in January 2020, as the latest brand extension of her wellness empire, that began as a newsletter in 2008.

But once the pandemic hit and one of the first big public outbreaks was on a cruise, information about the much-anticipated trip came to a halt. 

Over a year later, in June 2021, " Goop at Sea" was officially cancelled .

In August, a press release with a new concept for the trip dropped: four separate trips throughout October and December, leaving from Miami or Fort Lauderdale and sailing to Mexico. Each cruise would have two Goop-curated experts aboard, including a clairvoyant, fitness instructors, and an acupuncturist.

And so I headed aboard the first of four Goop sailings .

Ultimately, the cruise ship reminded me of a traditional cruise, and the wellness elements remained scarce, despite the Goop partnership.

When i arrived in miami at the cruise ship port, it was down pouring. luckily, i was protected from the storm with enclosed tents..

Once inside the tents, I showed a Celebrity Cruises employee my passport, vaccine card, and "Sea Pass," the ticket used to board the ship, enter your room, and buy premium drinks.

Another employee welcomed me aboard the ship, grabbed my suitcase, and escorted me up an elevator to the 8th floor where my room was located.

My room was a five-minute walk from the elevator and down a long and quiet hallway.

I stayed towards the front of the ship and could feel the boat colliding with waves during one rough night at sea.

I relied on the ship's lengthy directories to find my way around its 12 floors.

Elevators were located at the front, back, and center of the ship. Each had these signs posted next to them.

Once settled in my room, I finished the ship safety screening through an automated system on the television.

The entire process took 10 minutes, and I loved that it required zero human interaction.

My stateroom had a minimal aesthetic that reminded me of Goop's packaging. It featured a flat screen television, two sitting areas, a king-sized bed, and marble countertops.

As a solo traveler, I found the room's size impressive and comfortable. There were plenty of places to stow away luggage and clothes, plus a mini fridge.

The bathroom had plenty of shelving too despite its compact size.

The shower was a bit tight, and I bruised my knee getting in one time.

My room also featured a balcony, where I got to watch the sun set over Miami as we left the port. I paid $855.91 for the 5-day cruise, which included an ocean-view stateroom and the basic drink and meal package.

A boat staffer told me to help myself to the complimentary bottle of red wine left on the desk.

The boat had a few pandemic-era reminders, like these signs in each elevator.

All guests had to show proof of vaccination, and ship employees took daily antigen tests. There were also 300 guests on the ship, instead of the usual 800.

Communal computers came with sanitizing protocols.

At the center of the ship's 4th floor sat the casino. No matter the time of day, I could find at least one guest trying their luck at the slot machines inside.

On the second, third, and fifth days at sea, guests received personalized cards with Goop class offerings.

A ship staffer hand-delivered this card, as well as other cards with announcements for shows and off-boat excursions, to my stateroom door.

Most guests spent days at sea lounging on the pool deck, which was outfitted with two swimming basins, four hot tubs, a bar, and rows of lounge chairs.

A roster of live bands and DJs played music in front of the pool while waiters floated from chair to chair asking guests for drink orders.

I had no trouble finding a lounge chair to sunbathe, thanks to the ship's limited capacity during the pandemic.

From the pool, I got an expansive view of the ocean and we traveled towards our first stop: Cozumel, Mexico.

The deck pool sat below deck, so swimmers had to walk down stairs first to take a dip.

The glass elevators offered an ocean view too.

There was no shortage of food options, and I enjoyed room service almost daily.

At the buffet on the 10th floor, guests were asked to first wash their hands at sink stations.

Instead of serving myself, masked buffet staffers plated up food for guests.

The sit-down dinner menu varied each night and included everything from eggplant caviar to fish to pasta.

An on-staff sommelier suggested wine pairings every night at dinner. He offered options that came with my drink package as well as more premium wines I could buy.

On my final night at sea, I had a glass of rosé and a Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish.

The food in the dining room was markedly better than the buffet options. Still, none of the options, including this crème brûlée, seemed catered towards wellness.

There were 7 bars aboard the ship including the martini bar, which was always covered in a thin layer of ice. In the evening, guests watched as bartenders pulled out their best party tricks.

On the fourth night, the pool deck transformed into a "Full Moon Party," complete with a band, neon lights and line dances.

Everyone was asked to dress in all-white outfits and the ship's event's director led guests in dances like the Cupid Shuffle, as servers passed around cocktails.

Above the pool, fitness lovers could take a stroll or jog on the ship's track loop.

I spotted a handful of guests using the track, but most sat in lounge chairs while people-watching from a vantage point.

The Sky Lounge, a bar on the 11th floor, remained empty for most of the day.

A few Goop classes were held in the Sky Lounge, including two intuition seminars with clairvoyant and acupuncturist Deganit Nuur.

Ship employees arranged chairs in a circle, where I later sat with other guests.

In what felt like the most Goop-y part of the trip, Nuur walked us through a meditation where we read each other's auras.

I also took a 30-minute Goop fitness class in the Sky Lounge with New York City-based instructor Colette Dong.

Despite the short length and low-impact nature of the class, I had trouble sitting down for the next week due to sore muscles.

Dong's class featured bodyweight exercises targeting leg muscles, which complimented a class she taught days earlier targeting upper-body muscles.

I noticed the beat-based playlist, which Dong curated herself, helped me stay on track with the quick movements.

Statues, murals, paintings, and photographs lined with ship's walls and corridors and gave the boat a more luxurious vibe.

One night, guests were invited to bid on select art pieces.

The ship's 10th floor housed the spa, where guests could buy massages, nail services, hair styling and cuts, and skincare consultations.

I got a full-body massage during my last day at sea, but didn't hear any mention of the Goop-approved smoothie Paltrow mentioned would be on-board.

Directly next to the spa was the solarium, an indoor pool with massage jets and waterfalls.

The solarium and its cafe seemed tended to be empty, compared to the outdoor deck pool.

After my massage, I enjoyed some solitude while channeling the energy of the solarium's massive statue.

The five Goop classes I took were the icing on the cake, but I wouldn't return just for the brand-specific offerings.

• Main content

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Mexico City

A high-octane megalopolis boasting old-school cantinas, intriguing museums, inspired dining and boating along ancient canals, Mexico City is the sun in the Mexican solar system.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Alameda Central

Immense murals by world-famous Mexican artists dominate the top floors of this splendid white-marble palace – a concert hall and arts center commissioned…

Palacio Nacional

Centro Histórico

As the seat of the federal branch of the Mexican government, the Palacio Nacional (National Palace) is home to the offices of the president of Mexico and…

Torre Latinoamericana

The Torre Latinoamericana was Latin America’s tallest building when constructed in 1956, and remains the dominant focal point of Centro Histórico. It's an…

Museo Frida Kahlo

Coyoacán & San Ángel

Renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo was born in, and lived and died in, Casa Azul (Blue House), now a museum. Almost every visitor to Mexico City makes a…

Templo Mayor

Before the Spaniards demolished it, the Aztec 'Great Temple' Teocalli of Tenochtitlán covered the site where the cathedral now stands, as well as the…

Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo

If you saw the movie Frida (2002), you’ll recognize this museum, designed by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera's friend, architect and painter Juan O’Gorman…

Museo Casa de León Trotsky

The Trotsky home, now a museum, remains much as it was on the day when one of Stalin's agents, a Catalan named Ramón Mercader, caught up with the…

Museo Mural Diego Rivera

This museum is home to one of Diego Rivera’s most famous works, Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the…

Top picks from our travel experts

10 top things to do in mexico city.

Xochimilco Canals

Hundreds of colorful trajineras (gondolas) await passengers at the village’s 10 embarcaderos to paddle you through the waterways dotted with birdlife and…

Biblioteca de México

Mexico City's mega-library holds over 500,000 volumes and an extensive maps collection. Design and architecture fans should visit just to witness the…

11 of the best free things to do in Mexico City

Museo Soumaya

Polanco & Bosque de Chapultepec

Someone ought to tell Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim that bigger isn't always better. Named after his late wife, this six-story behemoth (plated with 16…

Museo Nacional de las Culturas del Mundo

Constructed in 1567 as the colonial mint, this renovated museum exhibits the art, dress and handicrafts of Mexico's and the world’s cultures. Mixed in for…

Palacio Postal

More than just Mexico City’s central post office, this golden palace built in 1907 is an Italianate confection designed by the Palacio de Bellas Artes’…

Ex Teresa Arte Actual

Mexico City was built atop a sloshy lake bed and it's sinking fast, as evidenced by this teetering former convent. The 17th-century building now serves as…

Plaza Garibaldi

Every night the city’s mariachi bands belt out heartfelt ballads in this festive square. Wearing silver-studded outfits, they toot their trumpets and tune…

Museo Jumex

Museo Jumex was built to house one of Latin America's leading contemporary art collections. Temporary exhibits draw on a collection of around 2600 pieces…

The heart of Mexico City is the Plaza de la Constitución. Residents began calling it the Zócalo, meaning ‘base,’ in the 19th century, when plans for a…

Created in the late 1500s by mandate of then-viceroy Luis de Velasco, the Alameda took its name from the álamos (poplars) planted over its rectangular…

Catedral Metropolitana

One of Mexico City’s most iconic structures, this cathedral is a monumental edifice: 109m long, 59m wide and 65m high. Started in 1573, it remained a work…

Castillo de Chapultepec

A visible reminder of Mexico’s bygone aristocracy, the ‘castle’ that stands atop Chapultepec Hill was begun in 1785 but not completed until after…

Zona Rosa & Reforma

The symbol of Mexico City, known as 'El Ángel' (The Angel), this gilded Winged Victory on a 45m-high pillar was sculpted for the independence centennial…

Tianguis Cultural del Chopo

A gathering place for the city’s various youth subcultures – especially goth, metal, indie and punk – with most of the outdoor vendor stalls selling new…

Basílica de Guadalupe

A cult developed around this site after a Christian convert named Juan Diego claimed in December 1531 that the Virgin Mary appeared before him on the…

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Location is everything in Mexico City, and we've put together a list of the best neighborhoods that are easily walkable and full of charm and character.

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The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

Mexico City is the fifth largest city in the world, a sprawling metropolis where history and culture converge in a dynamic tapestry of bright colors, diverse cuisines, and lively districts.

I love it here. I’ve been a handful of times and never get tired of exploring and eating my way around the city. I always have an amazing time. In fact, I love the city so much I even ran tours here (and every single person I showed around was blown away). No one hates this place.

Unsurprisingly, in a city so large and with such a long history, there’s a ton to see and do here, from visiting world-class museums to feasting at tiny taco stands to exploring offbeat neighborhoods. You could easily spend a week here and not even scratch the surface.

Here are what I think are best things to do in Mexico City so that you can have fun and really get to know the city and culture on your trip to this vibrant capital!

Table of Contents

1. Take a Walking Tour

2. visit the museo nacional de antropología, 3. tour frida kahlo’s house, 4. attend a lucha libre, 5. day trip to teotihuacán, 6. peruse the mercados, 7. take a food tour, 8. sample mezcal, 9. float along the xochimilco canals, 10. admire the view from torre latinoamericana, 11. wander the zócalo, 12. relax in chapultepec park, 13. visit castillo de chapultepec, 14. check out the art and history museums, 15. tour a megalibrary, 16. marvel at the soumaya museum, 17. escape to the unam botanical garden, 18. stroll around roma and condesa, 19. visit a pueblo mágico, 20. offbeat things to do in mexico city.

Walking tours are an excellent way to learn a destination’s history and avoid missing any must-see stops. I always start my trips off with at least one walking tour as it’s the best way to get the lay of the land and connect with a local guide that can answer all your questions.

Estación Mexico Free Tours and the Monkey Experience both have a free historic downtown tour that can show you what the city has to offer. The former also offers four other free tours of different neighborhoods too. Even though the tours are technically free, always remember to tip your guide at the end!

For more walking tour recommendations (including paid options), check out this post .

Found within Chapultepec Park, this world-class anthropology museum is the largest museum in Mexico (it’s also the most visited, receiving over two million guests per year). Since 1964, it has housed the largest global collection of sculptures, jewels, and artifacts from ancient Mexican civilizations. The different time periods are grouped into comprehensive (and massive) exhibition halls with bilingual information signs, so be sure to give yourself ample time to explore it all. There’s a beautiful courtyard in the center where you can sit and people-watch for a bit.

Av. P.º de la Reforma s/n, +52 (55) 5553-6266, mna.inah.gob.mx. Open Tues-Sun 9am-6pm. Tickets are 95 MXN. Guided tours of the highlights start at 375 MXN (includes admission).

Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera are two of the biggest names in Mexican art. Frida was particularly famous for her portraits and self-portraits. A tour of their old home (“Casa Azul”) is a worthwhile experience to see where and how she lived, as well as some of her original artwork. It’s a really interesting house with a beautiful garden and lots of information about her life. The residence also hosts a variety of artistic workshops monthly, so check out the schedule if you’re interested.

This guided tour of Coyoacán (the surrounding neighborhood) includes a ticket to the museum, which you’ll visit at your own pace after learning about the area in which the two artists lived and worked.

Londres 247, Del Carmen, +52 55 5554 5999, museofridakahlo.org.mx. Open Tues-Sun 10am-6pm (Wednesdays at 11am-6pm). Tickets are 250 MXN (270 MXN on the weekends). You must buy your tickets well in advance (at least a month out), because they are in incredibly high demand.

Mexican “free wrestling” is a favorite national pastime. Extremely entertaining and affordable, lucha libre takes the sport to a whole new level. Grab a beer or a shot of tequila, and whatever you do, do not look away during a match as anything can — and will — happen. (Do not bring your camera though, as you will be forced to check it at the door.)

Arena México and Arena Coliseo are the main places to see a match. General seating tickets can be as little as 56 MXN (do not buy from scalpers, because the police are always around and you’ll get in trouble). Look for a taquilla (ticket booth) sign to be sure that you are paying the right price.

Guided experiences, like this lucha libre experience , are also available. During the match, you’ll enjoy a mezcal tasting and munch on chips and guacamole, and at the end, you’ll leave with your very own lucha libre mask.

Arena México: Dr. Lavista 189, +52 55 5588 0266, cmll.com/arenas/arena-mexico. Shows on Fridays at 8:30pm, Sundays at 5pm, and Tuesdays at 7:30pm

Arena Coliseo: República de Perú 77, +52 55 5588 0266, cmll.com/arenas/arena-coliseo. Shows on Saturday nights at 7:30pm.

I’ve been a few times and can’t recommend it enough (especially if you’re a history buff). We took our tour groups here and everyone always had an amazing time.

You can either do the day trip yourself (there are plenty of buses) or go on a guided tour that also stops at the Guadalupe Basilica , an important pilgrimage site. Either way, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, as the sun is punishing, and there’s little to no shade.

Admission to the pyramids is 80 MXN, while a full-day tour including transportation and a local guide is 540 MXN.

Mexico City boasts a kaleidoscope of bustling markets, each with its own unique charm. Among the most famous is Mercado de la Merced, a sprawling market hailed as the largest in town. Located east of the Zócalo, it’s mainly focused on food, with vibrant displays of fruits, vegetables, meats, and spices.

Another iconic market is Mercado Roma, a contemporary gastronomic hub that showcases the city’s culinary diversity through gourmet treats and artisanal products. For something a little different, Mercado Jamaica is a beautiful flower market, full of vibrant colors and fragrances. And for unique souvenirs, head to La Ciudadela, an artisan market which boasts an extensive collection of traditional textiles and handicrafts.

Finally, Mercado de Sonora stands out for its mystical ambiance, renowned for catering to spiritual and esoteric needs, offering everything from traditional herbs and potions to ritualistic artifacts. There’s truly a market for everything in Mexico City!

If you don’t want to explore on your own, you can join a guided tour that visits both Mercado de la Merced and Mercado de Sonora, including many stops to sample lots of authentic local treats Tickets are around 1,100 MXN.

My friend Anais runs Devoured Tours , offering in-depth tours into the food scene of CMDX, with five different four-hour options to choose from. On each tour, you’ll meet a local “tastemaker,” an expert in their craft who shares the process behind Mexican gastronomic traditions like making mouthwatering tacos or crafting exquisite mezcal cocktails. Tours start at 1,625 MXN.

If you just want to eat all the tacos (who doesn’t), join Sabores Mexico Food Tours on its Tacos & Mezcal Night Food Tour . You’ll enjoy tacos at a mix of traditional and contemporary taquerias and end your night sampling in the first mezcal bar in Mexico City.

I love mezcal. It’s is a traditional Mexican distilled spirit, crafted from agave, that’s renowned for its smoky flavor and complexity. I’ve learned a ton about it over the course of my visits to Mexico, but I’m always looking to try new flavors and dive deeper into the distilling process.

If you want to try mezcal and learn more about it, some unique places to sample it include La Mezcaloteca (a bar/library where you can do a tasting of five mezcals) and La Clandestina in Condesa (with 25 mezcals from all over the country)

At the Museum of Tequila and Mezcal near Plaza Garibaldi, knowledgeable guides will lead you through the intricate process of production, from harvest to distillation. You’ll also get to sample types of mezcal alongside different tequilas, so you can appreciate the differences between Mexico’s main two spirits. A ticket that includes tastings costs 340 MXN.

If you’re an early riser, you can even opt for a sunrise tour, during which you’ll get the waterways virtually to yourself. Tours start at 890 MXN.

Torre Latinoamericana is an iconic skyscraper in the heart of Mexico City. Completed in 1956, it was once the tallest building in Latin America. Designed by architect Augusto H. Álvarez, the tower rises 183 meters (600 feet) and consists of 44 floors. (It has resisted numerous earthquakes, thanks to its innovative design featuring a stabilizing core.)

The tower offers panoramic views from its observation deck, giving a good perspective on just how massive the city is. It costs 200 MXN to visit the observation floor ( get advance tickets here ), but if you go to the bar on the floor just below, you’ll get the same view for the price of a drink.

Francisco I. Madero Avenue 1, +52 55 5518 7423, miradorlatino.com. Open daily 9am-10pm. Tickets are 200 MXN.

Originally the main ceremonial center in the ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlán (located where Mexico City now stands), the Templo Mayor was destroyed to make room for the cathedral in 1521. In fact, the very stones that made up the temple were used to create the cathedral. You can now view ancient artifacts uncovered from the site, rediscovered in the 1970s, at the Museo del Templo Mayor (95 MXN to enter the museum and archaeological site).

When you’re done, head over to admire the stunning Spanish colonial architecture of the La Catedral Metropolitana. This 16th-century building dominates the northern half of the Zócalo and is free to enter. Inside, it’s incredibly ornate, with a floor that’s noticeably tilted thanks to the perpetual sinking of the city (due to its construction on a lake and swamp).

Chapultepec means “Hill of the Grasshopper” in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs. Spanning 686 hectares (1,700 acres), this park in the heart of Mexico City is the second largest urban park in Latin America (the biggest is in Santiago, Chile ). It’s one of the world’s most visited too, not only by visitors but locals, who love to set up shop grilling and picnicking on Sundays. You can also rent a rowboat or paddleboat and go out on Chapultepec Lake. Whenever I want to just relax and soak up the sun, this is where I go.

In addition to the countless paths to stroll, Chapultepec is home to a zoo and several important museums, including the Museum of Anthropology (mentioned earlier) and Chapultepec Castle (see below).

The park is divided into three sections. Section 1 houses most of the museums and is open Tuesday-Sunday 5am-6pm. Sections 2 and 3 are open 24/7, though like many city parks, it’s likely not the best idea to walk through it alone after dark.

The only castle in North America to house monarchs, Chapultepec Castle was built in 1725 as a large manor house for the viceroy (the Spanish colonial administrator). Abandoned during the Mexican War of Independence in 1810, it later became the residence of Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota in 1864, during the Second Mexican Empire (1864–67).

Today, you can visit the castle and meander through the magnificently decorated period rooms, manicured gardens, and terraces offering impressive panoramas. The castle is also home to the Museo Nacional de Historia (see below), which tells the story of Mexico from the time of Tenochtitlán to the Mexican Revolution.

Bosque de Chapultepec, Section I, +52 55 5256 5464, mnh.inah.gob.mx. Open Tues-Sun 9am-5pm. Admission 95 MXN.

• Palacio de Bellas Artes (Fine Art Museum) : This impressive Art Nouveau building with an Art Deco interior is a massive cultural center that hosts performing arts events. Its various galleries include murals by Diego Rivera and rotating temporary exhibitions. It is also home to the Museum of Architecture.
• Museo Nacional de Historia (National History Museum) : This museum, located in Chapultepec Castle, tells the history of Mexico over 12 permanent exhibition halls.
• Museo de Arte Moderno (Museum of Modern Art) : Located within Chapultepec Park, this museum focuses on modern Mexican art. Its most famous piece is Frida Kahlo’s The Two Fridas .
• MUAC (University Museum of Contemporary Art of UNAM) : This art museum on the university’s grounds also focuses on contemporary Mexican art, with video and sound installations, paintings, drawings, and more.
• Museo Nacional de Arte (National Art Museum) : Mexican art from the mid-16th century to the mid-20th century is divided into three main time periods (colonial, post-independence, and post-revolution).
• Museo de Arte Popular (Folk Art Museum) : This museum’s collection of Mexican folk art and handicrafts features traditional textiles, pottery, glass, piñatas, and alebrijes (brightly colored sculptures of fantastical creatures).
• Memory and Tolerance Museum : This newer museum tells the history of genocides and crimes against humanity, with a section promoting tolerance and inclusion of all groups of people.
• Tamayo Museum : Born out of the private collection of artist Rufino Tamayo, this museum concentrates on 20th-century international art (especially of the avant-garde variety).

Ticket prices vary, but generally range from free to 100 MXN.

The Biblioteca Vasconcelos, located in the Buenavista neighborhood, is a temple to books, often referred to as a “megalibrary.” The largest library in the entire country, it opened in 2006, covers an incredible 38,000 square meters (409,000 square feet), and houses over 600,000 books.

But the real draw for the visitor is not in the collection (which, though large, isn’t particularly noteworthy) but the building itself. The architecture is stunning, featuring transparent walls, six intentionally mismatched floors, and sculptures by prominent artists. It also has a focus on sustainability, with rainwater collection barrels on the roof, windows designed to light almost the entire interior naturally (yet without harming the books), and a green roof covered in plants that keep the building cool.

Don’t miss popping around the back to stroll through the quiet and spacious garden filled with trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Admission is free.

Housing 66,000 pieces of Central American and European art, the Soumaya Museum displays works not only by Mexican artists such as Diego Rivera and Rufino Tamayo but also by famous masters such as Botticelli, Dalí, and Rodin. The museum was donated and constructed by one of the world’s richest men, Carlos Slim Helú (a Mexican business magnate). The Soumaya is a stunning piece of art on its own, as it is covered in 16,000 hexagonal aluminum tiles that sparkle in the sunlight. It’s considered the most beautiful modern building in Mexico City. Admission is free.

Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. +52 55 1103 9800, www.museosoumaya.org/. Open daily, 10:30am-6:30pm. Free entry.

If you’re seeking a temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City, look no further than the Botanical Garden at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). Rooted in Aztec traditions that valued gardens for both medicinal and ornamental purposes, this sanctuary also emphasizes conservation and environmental education. It’s situated around lava formations from the Xitle volcano eruption, and the paths meander through naturally formed grottoes and past waterfalls and ponds teeming with koi and turtles.

The plants you can admire here include the world’s most diverse cactus collection, with 800 different varieties; there’s also an orchidarium and a medicinal garden. This is also a habitat for wildlife: keep an eye out for woodpeckers, owls, hummingbirds, rattlesnakes, lizards, and the Pedregal tarantula, a species exclusive to this small area of Mexico City.

University City, Coyoacán. +52 56 22 90 63. www.ib.unam.mx/ib/jb/. Open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, Saturdays from 9am-3pm. Admission is free.

Roma is renowned for its bohemian atmosphere, European-inspired architecture, and colorful street art. Condesa is a bit more laid-back, high-class, and refined, featuring Art Deco buildings and lots of sidewalk cafés. Parque México and Parque España are iconic green spaces that divide the two neighborhoods and are perfect places to sit and people-watch for a bit.

The pueblos mágicos (magical towns) are towns and villages that the Mexican government has recognized for their cultural, historical, and natural significance. To be so designated, a place must meet specific criteria, including having historical and cultural richness and unique architecture, traditions, and folklore. These towns often feature well-preserved colonial architecture, lively cultural traditions, and a welcoming atmosphere.

While they are scattered all across the country, there’s one located just over an hour from Mexico City: Tepotzotlán.

Known for its beautiful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, vibrant murals, and hikes to sacred sites in the surrounding mountains, it makes for a fun day trip, or if you have the time, even an overnight. There are buses that go to Tepotzotlán from Taxqueña (Mexico City’s southern bus station) every 30 minutes. A ticket is 184 MXN.

There are lots of unconventional things to see and do that a lot of visitors don’t experience. Here are a few suggestions of some of my favorites:

• Palacio de Correos de México : This beautiful post office is a fascinating mix of architectural styles, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Gothic Revival, and others. There’s a free museum on the ground floor featuring various elements of the post office’s history, including a huge mural made entirely of stamps!
• Ballet Folklórico de México : This renowned folk-dance ensemble showcases traditional Mexican dance and music. Their permanent home is the Palacio de Bellas Artes, where tickets start at 1,200 MXN .
• Museo del Objeto del Objeto (Museum of the Object of the Object) : This quirky museum is dedicated to everyday objects, showcasing the evolution of design and consumer culture in Mexico. Free admission.
• Museo del Chocolate : Learn about the importance and cultivation of cacao throughout Mexico’s history. There’s also an attached café, where you can sample chocolates in plenty of different forms. Museum admission is 80 MXN.

Mexico City is one of the world’s greatest metropolises. From iconic landmarks like the historic Zócalo and the majestic Teotihuacán pyramids to the vibrant markets, diverse neighborhoods, and thriving culinary scene, it is utterly captivating. No matter how long you have here, these things to do will keep you busy and ensure that you have an amazing visit.

Book Your Trip to Mexico City: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, here are my favorite hostels in Mexico City .

This post can help you pick the best neighborhoods to stay in .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Mexico City? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Mexico City for even more planning tips!

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Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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A local’s guide to Mexico City

• By Issa Plancarte
• Photos by Alicia Vera

One of the largest urban centers in the world, Mexico City overflows with life, traffic and great food. It’s a city of contrasts, a place where you’ll find street vendors and world-class fine dining on the same block. There’s always something happening, a new restaurant to try, a new museum or art exhibit, a concert from artists who travel from around the globe.

Residents are known as “chilangos,” and while the roots of that nickname have been scrutinized, many of us carry it with pride. It’s like a badge that means we can endure anything. Even though it rains most afternoons from June to October, we never carry an umbrella. We take long drives to work, eat quick lunches and stretch out long chats with post-meal coffee and desserts. At this sobremesa, or roundtable, there is always room for a carajillo, a coffee spiked with sweet liqueur. We are loud, warm and friendly. We love to show off our city.

Meet Issa Plancarte

Issa is a food writer who was born and raised in Mexico City. She loves to travel new places, find stories and write for magazines.

Want to get in touch?

• 011-52-55-5207-2976
• 011-52-55-5521-3080
• 011-52-55-5578-2001
• 011-52-55-5396-7090
• 011-52-55-5920-2654
• 011-52-55-5941-5125
• 011-52-55-5264-1279
• 011-52-55-5386-1125
• The best time to visit is in spring, when the whole area is full of trees with purple jacarandas flowers in full bloom. It is so pretty.
• Lunch time is at 2 p.m., which is why our breakfast is humongous. Dinner on the contrary is really light. We prefer to go out for drinks and finish with late-night tacos.
• We are well known as an unpunctual people, so be ready to wait 15 to 30 minutes for any appointment. Sorry.
• 011-52-55-5616-0082
• 011-52-55-6709-1712
• 011-52-55-4155-1200
• 011-52-55-5622-6972

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Mexico City Tours & Vacations

Make your way through  Mexico  and down into Central American with our tours from Mexico City. The country’s sprawling capital city is full of historic buildings and culture – Zocalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Palacio Bellas Artes, Frida Kahlo Museum – and has Aztec ruins right at its heart, and just outside at Teotihuacan. Exploring a city of this size is hungry work, so stock up on tacos, tostadas, tortas, and chicharrones. From the capital make your way north into central Mexico and San Miguel De Allende, head south through Oaxaca to the Yucatan Peninsula and the jaw dropping ruins of Chichen Itza, and round it all off with chill time in Playa Del Carmen and Tulum.

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Hop On Hop Off Mexico City - Bus Tours

Often referred to as an “Urban Jungle” Mexico City is one of the world’s largest metropolises and is jam-packed with things to see and do. Discover them all on a fun and flexible Mexico city hop-on hop-off tour. Climb aboard the double-decker buses to experience the city from a unique vantage point while enjoying the informative audio commentary in multiple languages from a knowledgeable guide. The budget-friendly sightseeing is made easy with the hop-on hop-off Mexico City sightseeing tour.

Mexico City Sightseeing Bus Tours

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A really inexpensive fun way to tour the city

Experience Mexico City in Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

Home to the world’s largest pyramid, Mexico is situated in the south of Northern America. Mexico City is the capital of Mexico and was home to several prominent civilizations in the history of mankind such as the Maya and Zapotec. The pyramid of Cholula is in Mexico and is larger than the pyramid of Giza. Mexico is a linguistically diverse country where more than 68 languages are spoken. The city has over 170 museums making it the second city in the world with the largest number of museums. People in Mexico love Coca-Cola so much that they are its biggest consumers.

The easiest way to see the city is with a Mexico sightseeing bus tour that covers its key architectural gems and attractions. You can choose from different ticket options that let you cover the city in 1 or 2 days. Make sure to wear your walking shoes and book your tickets in advance to avoid last-minute disappointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what is the best time to book a mexico city hop-on hop-off tour.

April to October is the ideal time to explore Mexico and enjoy the idyllic weather. The holiday season in Mexico is quite busy with increased tourist inflow. Therefore, it is recommended to make your bookings in advance.

Q: How many days are enough to explore Mexico City?

We recommend spending at least three days exploring Mexico city in its entirety and enjoying the key highlights. However, a week is best for sightseeing around the city at a relaxed pace.

Q: What are the key attractions covered in the Mexico City hop-on hop-off tour?

The hop-on hop-off Mexico covers more than 15 strategically placed stops including key attractions like Alameda Central, Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe, Castillo de Chapultepec, Metropolitan Cathedral, Monument to Independence, Frida Kahlo Museum, Palace of Fine Arts, Plaza de la Constitución, Garibaldi Plaza, and more. The stops are subject to change, so it is recommended to check them at the time of booking.

Q: What is the duration of the Mexico City bus tour?

Each tour is different, but in general, they will have a duration of between 1hr and 2hrs. Make sure to check the specific tour for timings.

Q: What time do Mexico City bus tours operate?

Bus tours will run at different times of the day, especially if you have booked admission or skip-the-line tickets to the attractions. Make sure to check the tour details for full details on timings.

Other Hop On Hop Off Destinations

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7 of the best Maya ruins to visit in Mexico

Remnants of ancient civilisations still stand across Central America — and well-preserved temples and jungle-cloaked pyramids are open to visitors across southern Mexico.

Before the Spanish colonised Central America in the 16th century, the ancient Maya were one of the most sophisticated civilisations in the Western Hemisphere. They developed a complex calendar system through their knowledge of astrology and mathematics, used intricate hieroglyphics to record their history and built large, lavishly decorated cities, complete with pyramids, temples, and plazas.

At its height, the ancient Maya civilisation comprised 40 cities across Central America, spanning southern Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, El Salvador and Nicaragua. In the southern Mexican states of Yucatán, Quintana Roo and Chiapas, many of these settlements — the largest housed up to 50,000 people — still stand today, offering visitors a unique insight into the social, cultural and religious lives of the ancient Maya.

From carefully reconstructed sites like Chichen Itza to the wild, jungle-clad pyramids and ceremonial temples of Calakmul, these are the ancient Maya ruins not to miss in southern Mexico.

1. Chichen Itza

Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the beautifully preserved Chichen Itza in Yucatán is Mexico’s most famous Maya ruin. Despite the crowds, few are disappointed with El Castillo — a carefully restored pyramid that rises up 80ft and has 365 steps — or the city’s tlachtli , the largest Maya ball court in the Americas.

Occupied until the 16th century, Tulum was one of the last cities inhabited by the Maya and the only one built by the coast. The pyramids here aren’t as large as other Maya ruins in Mexico, but the setting, on 40ft-high cliffs above turquoise Caribbean waters south of Cancun, more than makes up for it.

Home to the tallest pyramid in the state of Quintana Roo, Cobá was once one of the most important Maya cities in Yucatán. Located around 30 miles west of Tulum ruins, the city was built in around 600 CE and it eventually grew to 50,000 inhabitants. Though much of Cobá has yet to be excavated, travellers can climb the 138ft-high Nohoch Mul — a pyramid that offers sweeping views over the Yucatán jungle. Cobá is also known for its sophisticated sacbe,   or ‘white road’2,   network —   limestone pathways that connect the city to neighbouring settlements.

4. Palenque

Deep in the jungles of northeastern Chiapas state in southern Mexico lies Palenque , a Late Classic Maya city known for its detailed hieroglyphic inscriptions and sculpted reliefs. These highly sophisticated designs have helped archaeologists understand more of the ancient Maya's history, mythology and calendar systems.

5. Calakmul

Cloaked by the second-largest expanse of tropical forests in the Americas, in Campeche’s Calakmul Biosphere Reserve near the border with Guatemala, Calakmul is one of Mexico’s wildest Maya ruins. It has the largest and tallest pyramid in Yucatán and more than 6,000 structures, many of them covered by jungle. The site is particularly beautiful at sunrise, when the surrounding jungle comes alive with birdsong, howler monkeys and, if you’re lucky, the roar of a jaguar.

6. Ek Balam

Around 25 miles north of the Yucatán city of Valladolid is Ek Balam , which means ‘black jaguar’ or ‘jaguar star’ in the Yucatec Maya language. The city reached its height in the eight century, when more than 20,000 people lived here. Its largest pyramid is 160 metres long and 105ft high, and contains the tomb of Ukit Kan Le´t Tok, the king of Ek Balam between 770 CE and around 797 CE. Archaeologists found the ruler buried with more than 7,000 pieces of jade, bone, ceramic, shell and precious metal, and the outside walls decorated with stone jaguars, winged creatures and human skulls.

A one-hour drive from the Yucatán capital of Merida is this seventh-century Maya city, once large enough to house 25,000 inhabitants. The Uxmal ruins are part of the Ruta Puuc, a 25-mile road network that connects Uxmal with the archaeological sites of Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, Labná, Oxkintok, Grutas de Calcehtok and Grutas de Loltún.

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Gwyneth paltrow says prospect of being an empty nester is “kind of giving me a nervous breakdown”.

The Oscar winner also talked about how celebrity brands eventually need to be less "reliant" on their founders, learning Italian and possibly starting a hotel at her annual In Goop Health wellness event.

By Ingrid Schmidt

Ingrid Schmidt

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Gwyneth Paltrow kicked off her 11th In Goop Health Summit April 19 to 21 at the upscale Park Hyatt Aviara Resort Golf Club & Spa in Carlsbad, where a Miraval Life in Balance Spa Aviara was unveiled in September as the final phase of a $60 million resort-wide renovation. Guests paid $1,200 for a daylong Summit Pass or $4,000 for a Weekender Pass, which included a two-night stay at the resort, a welcome dinner and brunch.

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Tapping into Grede’s smarts for business strategy, Paltrow asked her, “You have these super famous sisters who are incredible at understanding the consumer. Is there risk there? I think about this for myself. Like, how do I grow Goop to not be reliant on me? How do you think about Skims without Kim? Your marketing’s the best in the world. Whatever’s sort of in the ether, all of a sudden, you’re there. It’s so brilliant. Is that designed to kind of distribute the responsibility away from Kim?” 

Responding to her friend, Grede said, “You can’t anchor a business around a personality alone, if you want to be a brand with staying power, right? Because we all know that celebrity currency goes up and down. You’re like one bad movie, song, moment, boyfriend, whatever it is, from disaster. … You have to have mission, vision, values, as any brand needs. I come from a product background, and I think what we’ve done, time and time again, is create best-in-class products, where talent is an acceleration. Nobody comes back to buy a product from someone they love if the product is bad.”

Goop Beauty 72-Hour Supercharged Hydrating Water-Cream

Of course, a curated array of Goop merch was peddled at the event in a pop-up shop that “did incredibly well, surpassing the day’s sales goal,” according to a Goop spokesperson. Highlights included a new Goop Beauty 72-Hour Supercharged Hydrating Water-Cream ($68) and the latest G. Label by Goop apparel (including The Hostess Dress in summery linen for $625, a puff-sleeve One-and-Done Sweater for $595 and The Polished Jeans Short in crisp white for $295). Guests oohed and aahed over a light pink Hermès Birkin bag on offer for a cool $24,000 (Goop sells vintage handbags from luxury reseller What Comes Around Goes Around ). Also on display was a variety of gold jewelry, such as statement Foundrae necklaces , and, yes, vibrators .

HigherDOSE Red Light Therapy Mask

Stations offered astrology readings, ear seeding, B12 shots by Hydration Room , YINA gua sha scalp massages and HigherDOSE red-light therapy treatments . There were healthy snacks like Bjorn Corn, Simply Fruit Bites and Purely Elizabeth granola, while coffee and matcha drinks were infused with collagen, protein, Anima Mundi Happiness Tonic , Steens manuka honey and Rasasvada zero-proof spirits.

When Paltrow emerged in the afternoon to lead her signature “Ask Me Anything” session, she donned a $275 puff-sleeve G. Label by Goop sweatshirt bearing the phrase “Goop Depuis / Since 2008,” paired with sleek black leather shorts and stiletto pumps. The Oscar winner and Goop founder-CEO answered questions on a wide range of topics. Here are some standouts.

On what she is learning lately:  “I’m currently learning Italian and started with a tutor, recently, which has been great. … My Spanish actually confuses it, [because] it’s so similar. I’ll be trying to speak Italian and I pull Spanish words. I also have a Spanish accent when I speak Italian, which is not great. In the future, I’d really like to learn how to bake sourdough bread. I’m not a good baker at all! I’ve been reading a lot about real sourdough and how it kind of turns bread into a superfood. So that’s what I would like to learn next.”

G. Label By Goop Graphic Puff-Sleeve Pullover

On being an empty nester when 18-year-old Moses heads to Brown University this fall: “It’s kind of giving me a nervous breakdown, if I’m honest. I started being like, ‘Oh my God, and I need to quit my job and I need to sell my house and I need to move.’ It’s sort of putting things into turmoil. My identity has been being a mother. Apple’s going to be 20 in May. So I’ve oriented my whole life around them and their schedules and when school starts. You start to let go in increments when they’re driving themselves around or doing certain things. It is a slower process. I feel really lucky because I have a close group of mom friends and we all raised our kids alongside one another. So we’re kind of in it together.

“Psychologist-astrologist Jennifer Freed said, ‘I would like you to think of it as being free birds instead of having an empty nest.’ And that resonates. Instead of creating a sense of loss, what if I were free? And I could say yes to a girls’ weekend, because I didn’t feel guilty. That kind of thing.”

On the possibility of a Goop hotel: “I think about that all the time. That’s my pie-in-the-sky dream. But we have to do too many things at Goop as it is. Maybe one day. I feel like we need a Goop hotel more in the city where everything’s so hectic and chaotic. The idea that you could come in after a long flight and have an IV and a cold plunge and all the stuff. I feel like it would be good for urban life.”

On owning her power in business: “When I turned 40, I had this sort of upgrade, which really pulled me into my power and I started looking at life and work in a different way, thinking, ‘Why am I apologizing all the time? Why am I constantly leaning into the narrative that I don’t know what I’m doing or that I’ve done something wrong? This is so boring and it’s not an efficient way to move through life.’ I tried to start telling myself, ‘I belong here.’ … I’m always continuing to learn and assess. Am I in the right spot? Is it time to do a different role at the company? Do I want to be here for a long time or could somebody do it better? I think it’s important to always question where you are when you have ambitions for growth but also to just allow for the specialness of what you bring. And now that I’m 51 and got another upgrade when I was 50, I really don’t give a fuck and I’m happy to completely be in my power, seeing what happens.”   

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This Mexico Hot Spot Was Just Named the Best City in the World by T+L Readers — Here's How to Plan the Perfect Trip

Oaxaca is the No. 1 city in the world, according to T+L readers. Here is a rundown of the best things to do.

The Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best shopping, best restaurants, best times to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

Boasting an endless supply of mezcal and mole, Oaxaca de Juárez is undoubtedly one of the ultimate food and drink destinations on the planet. So, it's perhaps no surprise that in Travel + Leisure's 2023 World's Best Awards , it was named the best city in the world . (The city is commonly referred to as Oaxaca, but shouldn't be confused with the eponymous state it's a part of.)

This dynamic city in southwestern Mexico is home to vibrant culture, beautiful weather, and some of the country's most iconic architecture. "The most remarkable thing about Oaxaca is the deep presence of this pre-Colombian culture in all aspects of contemporary life — the mingling and mixing of Indigenous, Spanish, and contemporary Mexican influences are unique and unforgettable," said Zachary Rabinor , a member of T+L's A-List of travel advisors and the CEO of Journey Mexico .

You could spend several weeks here and not even scratch the surface — if you weren't planning correctly, that is. "Oaxaca is a quintessential and magical destination that combines culture, nature, and adventure, with a year-round spring-like climate due to its idyllic location nestled into a fertile valley of the Sierra Madre Sur Mountains," Rabinor said. "It offers a charming, pedestrian-friendly UNESCO World Heritage Site City Center with impressive architecture, museums, markets, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, while the surrounding valleys harbor incredible Indigenous villages that conserve century-old artisan traditions, dress, language, culture, and lifestyles."

To that end, we've compiled a list of the best things to do, see, and sip while exploring this exciting part of the world.

Oaxaca features all manner of lodging, ranging from unassuming bed-and-breakfasts to historic converted convents, all the way up to the most opulent and palatial of modern luxury. You'll find a little bit of each in this city.

Hotel Casa Santo Origen

If you're not afraid to spend a few hundred per night, you can enjoy the modern boutique beauty of Hotel Casa Santo Origen . Just 15 minutes from the city center, each of the eight suites in this small hotel is named after a unique region of the state of Oaxaca, and decorated with local art.

Book Now: Hotels.com | Expedia | Trip Advisor

Quinta Real Oaxaca

If you want something more old-fashioned, check in at Quinta Real Oaxaca — a 16th-century nunnery retaining a thorough throwback charm without sacrificing modern amenities. The property boasts views of courtyards and the streets of Oaxaca and even has an idyllic garden pool.

Casa Silencio

If you'd prefer to stay in the heart of mezcal country, you'll want to book your stay at the stunning Casa Silencio , which is about an hour outside of Oaxaca. This upscale shrine to agave features multilevel guest rooms, a spa, and Michelin-caliber cuisine and mixology. And, oh yes, a working distillery pumping out the native liquid.

Downtown Oaxaca

Within Oaxaca, Rabinor said taking a day to leisurely explore the city center and downtown is the way to go. "Take your time strolling through the market and be sure to try  pan de yema con chocolate ," Rabinor said. "Find a spot in one of the many plazas and enjoy people-watching, as it's not uncommon to witness a colorful calenda (street procession) happening at any time of the week. These processions are part of the numerous festivals that celebrate various personal and communal events in the lives of the local community."

Hierve el Agua

When it's time for sightseeing beyond the city, one of the top natural wonders to explore is Hierve el Agua . These calcareous rock formations in San Lorenzo Albarradas look as if a waterfall has been frozen to the side of a cliff. Established hiking paths bring you right up to the cascade's edge. If you're looking to take a dip in the human-made pools, aim to get there early to avoid crowds.

Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure

Monte Albán

Perched atop a 1,300-foot tall plateau, Monte Albán is a UNESCO World Heritage Site containing a well-preserved terraced pyramid and other pre-Columbian cultural artifacts. Much of what you'll explore here was built by the Zapotecs, an Indigenous people who are thought to have settled in the region as early as 800 B.C.E. It is the second-largest ceremonial site in all of Central America. "Monte Albán is not only a treasure of ancient history, but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds significant importance in understanding the cultural heritage of Oaxaca and the surrounding region," Rabinor told T+L.

Mezcal Experiences

Mezcal is a distilled agave spirit traditional to the Oaxacan region. It has been made here for centuries using techniques that have largely resisted the prying hands of modern machination. Whether you drink or don't, a mezcal experience is an enriching experience. Rabinor noted that it supports local communities that rely on the industry, helps people "understand the hard work and history that goes behind producing [mezcal], and lets travelers 'learn and appreciate one of the world’s most complex spirits.'" Running down the many palenques — farm distilleries — where it is made and the enchanting sipping parlors where it is served would require an entirely separate article. ( In fact, this is a good one right here. ) But assuming you're starting your liquid journey in the city of Oaxaca, these are four tasting opportunities you should not skip over: Mezcalería In Situ for a broad collection of bottles and emphasis on education; El Distilado to enjoy how mezcal pairs with the local cuisine; and Selva Oaxaca to see how it mixes into artisanal cocktails. For a sip with a view, take your thirst to the rooftop of Puro Burro , a hip watering hole founded by native agave impresario, Asis Cortes — the man behind Mezcal Dixeebe .

Oaxacan Beaches

The state of Oaxaca is home to over 300 miles of coastline, so there are plenty of beaches to explore on a weekend getaway. Puerto Escondido , for example, is amassing a lot of tourist attention from beachgoers these days. (A flight from OAX to Puerto Escondido — PXM — is about 45 minutes.)

There's also Mazunte, with its cerulean surf crashing into the jagged shore. (Check out the Mexican Turtle Center in town, dedicated to the preservation of everyone's favorite slow-moving reptile.) And if you want to speed things up a bit, head several miles east along the coast to the town of Zipolite . There are powerful waves pummeling this sand, popular with surfers. Though others opt to simply lay and tan, enjoying the sunset over surrounding cliffs. Or you can snorkel the protected coral reefs of neighboring Huatulco National Park.

Oaxaca is filled with small boutiques with handmade goods for every budget. Mercado 20 de Noviembre is a market with goods like sandals, bags, homeware, and more.

Rabinor recommended not skipping the artisan communities outside of town, such as San Martín Tilcajete, San Bartolo Coyotepec, and Teotitlan del Valle. "[This is] where skilled communities create exquisite works of art, including colorful alebrijes (wooden figurines), intricate black pottery, and vibrant textiles," he said.

For food, consider stopping by Mercado de Abastos. You can book a tour of the market through the area's most popular guide: Omar Alonso . "This is where locals go to buy everything," Alonso told T+L. "During holidays, it's particularly packed as we gather the ingredients we'll need to offer to our guests that come during the festivities." And for mezcal, visit Mezcaleria Cuish for both a drink and some bottles to-go.

You'll want to savor the world-class cuisine offered throughout Oaxaca and you'll have no trouble finding it when you're strolling the streets.

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

The hub's bustling market scene is a great place to absorb a bit of everything. Mercado 20 de Noviembre is famous for its variety of food stalls featuring everything from baked goods and pastries to an entire aisle of roasted proteins: "El Pasillo de las Carnes Asadas." Here, you can order trays of meat that get cooked fresh in front of you. For something smaller and more vegetarian-friendly, explore Mercado Organico La Cosecha .

Cesar Rodriguez/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Restaurante Casa Oaxaca

If you're craving more of a sit-down experience, make a reservation at Casa Oaxaca's restaurant from chef Alejandro Ruiz. Absolutely order the tableside guacamole and explore Oaxacan cuisine with dishes like mole negro , and coloradito .

One of the top-rated restaurants in the city is Origen , helmed by 2016  Top Chef  winner Rodolfo Castellanos. Pro tip: try the grilled octopus and chicharrones.

El Lechoncito de Oro

Be sure to save room for El Lechoncito de Oro , which is open nightly from 8 p.m. until … whenever. This unassuming tented stall is an after-hours institution. They specialize in mouth-watering seared pork tacos covered in crispy pork rinds and spicy salsa verde.

Bar La Giralda

"Every time I'm [in Oaxaca], I must stop into Bar La Giralda for my favorite michelada on the planet," author Javier Cabral, who co-wrote "Oaxaca: Home Cooking From The Heart Of Mexico," told T+L . "They use pasilla chiles in the base. The more you drink, the more  botanas  [snacks] arrive."

Read More : Where to Eat and Drink in Oaxaca, According to People Who Are Obsessed With Eating and Drinking in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a big state — a little larger than the state of Indiana — occupying several tropical and subtropical climates. The temperature can vary wildly depending on where you're visiting and when. "The best time to visit Oaxaca depends on your preferences for weather, cultural events, and crowd levels," Rabinor said.

The good news is that it's almost always pleasantly warm and abundantly sunny. The one exception is the rainy season, which extends from May into September. Rabinor said that while the rainy season "brings occasional showers and higher humidity" it also "offers lush landscapes and fewer visitors.

July is a popular month, according to Rabinor, that can be crowded since it overlaps with the cultural festival of Guelaguetza , also called the Lunes del Cerro or "Mondays on the Hill."

Gabriel Perez/Getty Images

Early November is also a perennially popular time to visit. The weather is dependably inviting, as it's the start of the dry season, which extends through April. You'll also experience Día de los Muertos celebrations, bringing mirth, marigold, and mesmerizing pageantry into the streets of cities and villages throughout the country. Even if you miss these particular festivities, arrive sometime between fall and spring break, and you'll leave with little to no regrets.

Read More : The Best Time to Visit Mexico for Good Weather and Affordable Prices

Oaxaca is most easily reached through Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) — a smaller-sized airport. Direct service from the United States arrives by way of Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston. One way to snag a bargain fare is to fly into Guadalajara (GDL) or Mexico City (MEX), and then take a domestic carrier to OAX.

Oaxaca is a walkable city so you don't need to rent a car. While a vehicle is helpful when visiting sites outside of the city, like Hierve el Agua, you can opt for a local car service to drive you to farther destinations. Should you want transportation from point A to point B within the downtown, cabs are readily available. To get to and from the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or rental car.

Gwyneth Paltrow Has a Travel App...and It's Called G. Spotting

By Jane Sung

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Some say that getting lost on vacation leads to unexpected adventures—but it can also lead to a mediocre meal at a forgettable place. Gwyneth Paltrow wants to help you avoid any such faux pas with the latest extension of her Goop brand: a newly revamped (and cheekily named) travel app called G. Spotting , out today. It features curated guides to restaurants, shops, and culture across more than 25 cities, from Aspen to Amsterdam. Best described as a virtual directory of must-visits and under-the-radar destinations, all the content is culled from the frequent travels of the Goop team, as well as Paltrow herself.

It’s been a busy year for Paltrow's lifestyle brand. With an all-natural skincare collection , covetable clothing line, and chemical-free fragrance launched in the past nine months, Goop rounds out 2016 with this head-first leap into the travel universe. Goop's travel-minded “Go” section of the website already offers the kind of "anti-Yelp narrowing of the universe that her devotees love; G. Spotting takes that idea and makes it even easier to use on the go. There are guides organized by personality type (foodie, hipster, kid-friendly…), as well as itineraries crafted by Paltrow and her inner circle (she tapped Reese Witherspoon and Tim McGraw for the Nashville guide). And don't assume it's all for the 1 percent: On movie shoots, Paltrow said she would ask the makeup artist or truck drivers where to get pizza rather than the hotel concierge. Her insider-y database ranges from a legendary churreria in Mexico City, to cool concept shops that stay open in Paris in August, to the best lounge for retro cocktails in Hong Kong.

Gwyneth Paltrow's new travel app, G. Spotting.

There are some app-exclusive features as well. Each destination includes know-before-you-go information that’s useful to first-time visitors, including where to go for medical emergencies (appropriately labeled “f&%k”) and packing tips. There's also a geolocation function that lets you navigate a city without having to switch in and out of the app to plan the route.

"It's an amazing time to be an entrepreneur and it's going to be up to us to create our own jobs over the next 50 years," Paltrow said at the recent Airbnb Open , when she announced G. Spotting alongside Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky. "I took a crazy risk. I had a perfectly good day job. It was going great. What got me through was that I've never let go of my vision. I see a bullseye and it might be really far away but I'm going straight for it and I'm doing the best I can."