Mexico City: Top Attractions & Places to Visit

Mexico City, the largest city in America, is one of the biggest urban areas in the world. Also known as DF (Federal District) or CDMX.

Mexico City, also known as DF, stands on the ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlan. In 1521, Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés defeated the Aztecs and turned it into the capital of the Viceroyalty of New Spain. The city was once called the City of Palaces.

Today, with more than 9 million inhabitants, Mexico City is one of the most populated cities in the world. It is the economic, political, and social hub of Mexico, offering a rich cultural life.

Mexico City blends ancient archaeological sites, historical buildings, modern constructions, and green parks. It features two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Historic Center and Xochimilco Ecological Park.

Historic Center

Located in the heart of the city:

Zócalo: Officially known as Plaza de la Constitución, it is the gathering place for thousands of Mexicans.

Metropolitan Cathedral: This Hispanic-American architecture building is 130 meters long, 59 meters wide, and 60 meters high. Construction began in 1534 over the ruins of an Aztec temple.

National Palace: Built in 1522 as the residence of Hernán Cortés, it now houses the Executive Branch and is a prime example of Baroque style.

Old City Hall: This building, constructed in 1526, serves as the headquarters of the Federal District Government and can be visited.

Must-See Places in CDMX

Xochimilco Park

Xochimilco is one of the most visited places by tourists and locals alike.

Often referred to as the "Mexican Venice," it is traversed by canals and streams. Visitors can hire colorful boats known as trajineras to enjoy the scenery and local dishes sold at docks.

Markets in Mexico City

Mexico City has numerous markets, almost one in every neighborhood. These markets are ideal for experiencing the authentic atmosphere of the city.

Some markets to visit in Mexico City include:

Mercado de la Merced (Address: Anillo de Circunvalación esq. General Anaya - Zone: Historic Center)

Mercado de Sonora (Address: Fray Servando Teresa de Mier esq. Anillo de Circunvalación - Zone: Historic Center)

Mercado de San Juan (Address: Ernesto Pugibet esq. Plaza Buen Tono - Zone: Centro Alameda)

Mercado de Coyoacán (Address: Xicoténcatl and Allende - Zone: Coyoacán)

Coyoacán

Coyoacán is a neighborhood known for its special atmosphere, marked by a cultural and bohemian vibe. It is home to important educational centers like the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and the National Museum of the Interventions. One of the most famous sites in Coyoacán is the Blue House, where the renowned artist Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera lived, and where León Trotsky also stayed.

Villa Guadalupe

In this area, you’ll find the Basilica of Guadalupe, the sanctuary dedicated to the most revered Virgin of Mexico. Hundreds of pilgrims come daily from across the country and abroad to pray to the Virgin of Guadalupe at the very place where she appeared to Saint Juan Diego.

Zona Rosa

The Zona Rosa of Mexico City is an area full of nightclubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, and trendy stores. It is known for its vibrant nightlife. Located in the Juárez neighborhood in Cuauhtémoc borough, it is a must-visit for those looking to experience the city’s excitement.

Polanco

Polanco is an upscale neighborhood that, together with Condesa, San Ángel, Jardines Del Pedregal, Colonia Del Valle, Lomas de Chapultepec, and Santa Fe, forms part of the most developed area in the city.

Estadio Azteca

The Estadio Azteca is one of the three largest stadiums in the world, with a capacity of 104,000 spectators. Built in 1962 ahead of the 1970 World Cup, it is known as the "Colossus of Santa Úrsula" due to its location in the Santa Úrsula neighborhood. The stadium can be toured on guided visits every day.

Mexico City Museums

León Trotsky House Museum - Address: Av. Río Churubusco No.410, Col. Del Carmen, C.P. 04100, Mexico City, Phone: 5554-0687

National Museum of Anthropology - Address: Av. Paseo de la Reforma y Calzada Gandhi s/n, Col. Chapultepec Polanco, Delegación Miguel Hidalgo, C.P. 11560, Mexico City, Phone: (55) 4040-5300

Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo House-Studio Museum - Address: Av. Diego Rivera and Altavista s/n, Col. San Ángel Inn, C.P. 01060, Mexico City, Phone: 5550 1004

Frida Kahlo Museum (The Blue House) - Address: Londres No.247, Col. Del Carmen (Abasolo-Allende), Coyoacán, Mexico City, Phone: 5554-5999

Wax Museum of Mexico City - Address: Londres No.6, Col. Juárez, C.P. 06600, Mexico City, Phone: 5546-7670

Tren Ligero de CDMX

The CDMX Light Rail is a fascinating and modern way to travel through southern Mexico City. This system offers quick access to places like Xochimilco.

It connects many local communities, making it a good option for getting to various attractions like lakes and natural reserves in the southern part of the city.

Explore more about Mexico City: Discover the magic of CDMX with our detailed guides and tips for all kinds of travelers.