Explore one of the worlds formest culinary and cultural capitals.
Mexico City has emerged as one of the world’s most exciting cultural and culinary capitals, a city where centuries-old traditions seamlessly collide with cutting-edge innovation. Once overshadowed by other global metropolises, CDMX has flourished over the past decade, fueled by a revival of pride in its deep-rooted history, vibrant art scene, and gastronomic ingenuity. Its streets hum with life, from avant-garde galleries and breathtaking murals to a food scene that ranges from mouthwatering street tacos to Michelin-starred dining experiences. Mexico City's thriving cocktail culture, driven by a new wave of mixologists celebrating native ingredients like mezcal and nixtamalized corn, has earned it a place on every connoisseur’s radar. Visiting in the springtime, between March and May, is especially magical: the jacaranda trees burst into vivid purple bloom, the weather is warm but not stifling, and the city’s outdoor terraces are buzzing. This itinerary will highlight the must visit places in the city.
Where to Stay:
Casa Polanco
Casa Polanco, a boutique luxury hotel in the heart of Polanco, offers elegance in a restored 1940s Spanish Revival residence. Overlooking Parque Lincoln, its 19 refined rooms blend historic charm with modern design. Guests enjoy gourmet breakfasts, afternoon tea, a serene spa, and easy access to top cultural and dining destinations.
Address: Luis G. Urbina 84, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560
Average Price Per Night: $701/night
Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City
The Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City is a luxurious haven on Paseo de la Reforma, featuring elegant rooms, a tranquil courtyard garden, and exceptional dining, including Zanaya and Fifty Mils. With impeccable service and a prime location, it offers a refined retreat in the city’s vibrant heart.
Address: Av. P.º de la Reforma 500, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, 06600
Average Price Per Night: $698/night
The St. Regis
Also on Paseo de la Reforma, The St. Regis Mexico City exudes timeless luxury with skyline view rooms, butler service, and world-class amenities. Highlights include fine dining at Diana Restaurant, the renowned King Cole Bar, and a serene Remède Spa. Combining modern elegance with exceptional service, it’s a premier choice for a luxurious stay in the capital.
Address: Av. P.º de la Reforma 439, Cuauhtémoc, 06500
Average Price Per Night: $693/night
Friday Evening: Arrive
7:30 PM: Dinner at Esquina Común
Esquina Común, in Condesa, is a celebrated dining spot blending Mexican and Spanish cuisines. Founded by chef Ana Dolores González, it offers a seasonal seven-course tasting menu featuring creative dishes like plantain croquettes and squash blossom pesto. With just 30 seats and a relaxed rooftop ambiance, it’s a must-visit for a unique culinary experience in Mexico City.
Address: Fernando Montes de Oca 86, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, 06140
Duration: 2 Hours
10:00 PM: Cocktails and Live Jazz at Jazzatlán Capital
Jazzatlán Capital is an extension of the renowned Jazzatlán club from Cholula, Puebla. This vibrant venue combines live jazz performances with a gastropub atmosphere, offering craft beers, mezcal, and Mexican cuisine. The club features multiple levels, including a live music area where both traditional and contemporary jazz artists perform, and a tap room serving craft beers.
Address: Guanajuato 239, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700
Duration: 1.5 Hours
Late Night Food: Tacos "El Gato Volador"
In case you are peckish after drinks, Tacos El Gato Volador is a popular street taco stand renowned for its flavorful and affordable offerings. They specialize in birria and al pastor tacos, but offer a variety of other meats, including longaniza and campechano.
Address: Av. Álvaro Obregón 206, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700
Saturday
8:30am: Breakfast at Chilpa
Chilpa is a popular breakfast and brunch spot renowned for its customizable chilaquiles. You can choose between baked or fried tortilla chips, select from a variety of salsas ranging in spiciness, and add toppings such as eggs, cecina (salted beef), or vegetables. The restaurant offers a casual ambiance with sidewalk seating and is conveniently situated near Parque México.
Address: C. Chilpancingo 35, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, 06170
Duration: 1 Hour
10:00am: Tour of The National Anthropology Museum
The National Anthropology Museum in Mexico City, located in Chapultepec Park, is a world-class institution showcasing Mexico's rich cultural heritage. Designed by Pedro Ramírez Vázquez in 1964, its iconic "umbrella" fountain complements exhibits like the Aztec Sun Stone, Olmec heads, and Mayan artifacts. Spanning 23 halls, it offers a captivating journey through the history and artistry of Mexico’s indigenous civilizations, making it a must-visit cultural destination.
Address: Av. P.º de la Reforma s/n, Polanco, Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560
Duration: 1.5 - 2 Hours
12:00PM: Stroll through Chapultepec Park
Chapultepec Park, one of the largest city parks in the world, is a lush green oasis in the heart of Mexico City. Spanning over 1,600 acres, it’s a cultural and recreational hub divided into four sections, offering something for everyone. Highlights include the historic Chapultepec Castle, perched atop a hill with stunning views and a museum showcasing Mexican history. The park is also home to the National Anthropology Museum, Modern Art Museum, and the Tamayo Museum, making it a cultural treasure trove. Visitors can stroll through picturesque gardens, paddle on the lakes, or enjoy street food from local vendors. Families will appreciate attractions like the Chapultepec Zoo and the Children’s Museum. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Chapultepec Park is a must-visit destination for relaxation and exploration in Mexico City.
Duration: 1 Hour
1:30pm: Lunch at Contramar
Contramar is a renowned seafood restaurant celebrated for its fresh, high-quality dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Established in 1998 by chef Gabriela Cámara, the restaurant has become a culinary institution, attracting both locals and visitors. Signature offerings include the tuna tostada and the red-and-green grilled fish, known as pescado a la talla, both of which have garnered international acclaim.
Address: Dgo. 200, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700
Duration: 1.5 hours
3:00PM: Stroll through Roma Norte
Roma Norte is one of Mexico City’s trendiest neighborhoods and a vibrant blend of historic charm and modern culture. Known for its tree-lined streets, stunning early 20th-century architecture, and a creative atmosphere, it’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Walking through Roma Norte reveals an eclectic mix of art deco mansions, colorful murals, and hip cafes tucked into restored buildings. The neighborhood is a haven for foodies, with a range of options from gourmet restaurants to beloved taco joints. Art lovers can explore independent galleries or admire street art, while Plaza Río de Janeiro offers a relaxing spot to people-watch alongside its famous replica of Michelangelo’s David.
Duration: 1 - 2 Hours
6:30 PM: Dinner at Quintonil
Jorge Vallejo and Alejandra Flores' Two Michelin Star Quintonil is a celebrated restaurant specializing in contemporary Mexican cuisine. The restaurant offers both à la carte options and a nine-course tasting menu that changes seasonally, showcasing ingredients sourced from local gardens and producers. Signature dishes include the charred avocado tartare with escamoles (ant larvae) and the cactus sorbet. Quintonil's commitment to sustainability is evident in its farm-to-fork approach, with many ingredients traveling just 30 meters from origin to plate. It currently holds the seventh position on The World's 50 Best Restaurants list.
Address: Av. Isaac Newton 55, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560
Duration: 2.5 - 3 Hours
10:00 PM: Cocktails at Hanky Panky Cocktail Bar
Hanky Panky Cocktail Bar is a distinguished speakeasy celebrated for its exclusive ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails. Its exact location remains undisclosed until a reservation is secured, enhancing its allure. The bar's interior exudes a retro-chic atmosphere, featuring dim lighting, leather booths, and a 10-seat bar that collectively create an intimate setting for patrons. It currently ranks No. 13 in The World's 50 Best Bars list.
Address: Turín 52, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, 06600
Duration: 1.5 Hours
Sunday
8:30am: Breakfast at Panadería Rosetta
Regarded by many as the greatest bakery in Mexico City, Chef Elena Reygadas' Panadería Rosetta offers artisanal breads and pastries, such as the widely acclaimed guava roll (rol de guayaba) and traditional Mexican pan de muerto during Día de Muertos. The bakery emphasizes high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, reflecting Reygadas's commitment to Mexican culinary traditions. Its popularity often results in lines, especially on weekends, but the exceptional quality makes it a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Mexican baked goods.
Address: Colima 179, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700
Duration: 1.5 Hours
10:30am: Centro Histórico
The historic heart of Mexico City, Centro Histórico is a vibrant district brimming with culture, history, and architecture. Cobblestone streets are lined with colonial-era buildings, museums, and bustling markets, blending centuries-old charm with modern energy. UNESCO-listed, the area also boasts renowned eateries, lively plazas, and a thriving arts scene, making it an essential destination for exploring Mexico City’s rich past and dynamic present. Below is a list of must visit sites in this area.
Duration: 2 hours
Templo Mayor Museum
The Templo Mayor Museum, near Mexico City's Zócalo, showcases the Aztec Empire’s rich history. Built around the ruins of the Templo Mayor, it features artifacts like the Coyolxauhqui Stone and ceremonial offerings. Combining history with stunning exhibits, it offers a captivating glimpse into the religious and cultural heart of ancient Tenochtitlán.
Address: Seminario 8, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06060
Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral
The Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral, located on the Zócalo, is the largest and oldest cathedral in Latin America. Built between 1573 and 1813 atop Aztec temple ruins, it blends Baroque, Renaissance, and Neoclassical styles. Its towering façade, intricate altars, and stunning artwork reflect Mexico's colonial history. Highlights include the Altar of Forgiveness, the choir stalls, and the massive bell towers.
Address: P.za de la Constitución S/N, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000
Palacio de Bellas Artes
The Palacio de Bellas Artes is a stunning cultural landmark in Mexico City, renowned for its Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture. Completed in 1934, it boasts a striking marble façade and a breathtaking interior featuring murals by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and Rufino Tamayo. Its main hall is home to a unique stained-glass curtain depicting the Valley of Mexico. The palace hosts world-class opera, ballet, and symphony performances, making it a cultural centerpiece.
Address: Av. Juarez S/N, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06050
National Art Museum
The National Art Museum (Museo Nacional de Arte, MUNAL), located in Mexico City’s historic center, is a masterpiece of neoclassical and Beaux-Arts architecture. Housed in a grand 19th-century building, it showcases a vast collection of Mexican art from the colonial era to the early 20th century. Highlights include works by José María Velasco, Diego Rivera, and Saturnino Herrán, offering a journey through Mexico’s artistic evolution. The museum’s elegant central staircase and stunning murals further enhance its beauty.
Address: C. de Tacuba 8, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000
1:00pm: Lunch at Los Danzantes
Los Danzantes is a celebrated restaurant blending contemporary Mexican and Oaxacan flavors. Known for dishes like duck with roselle mole and an exceptional mezcal selection, it offers a vibrant dining experience in a colonial building overlooking Jardín Centenario.
Address: Parque Centenario 12, Coyoacán TNT, Coyoacán, 04000
Duration: 1.5 hours
2:30PM: Explore Coyoacán
Coyoacán is a charming and bohemian neighborhood known for its colonial charm, vibrant plazas, and cultural landmarks. Explore sights such as Plaza Hidalgo, and the lively Coyoacán Market with its crafts and street food. Enjoy a stroll in Viveros de Coyoacán or browse the area’s quaint cafes, bookstores, and galleries. Rich in history and local flavor, Coyoacán is a must-visit for its small-town charm and cultural vibrancy.
Duration: 1.5 Hours
Note: It is a 5 minute drive, or 15 minute walk from the restaurant to the museum
4:00pm: Frida Kahlo Musem
The Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as Casa Azul, is one of Mexico City’s most beloved cultural attractions. Located in Coyoacán, this vibrant blue house was Kahlo’s childhood home and later shared with her husband, Diego Rivera. The museum offers an intimate glimpse into Kahlo’s life, featuring her personal belongings, iconic paintings, and traditional Mexican artifacts. Highlights include her famous self-portraits, her studio, and her colorful wardrobe. The lush garden, adorned with native plants and pre-Columbian sculptures, adds to the charm.
Address: Londres 247, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, 04100
Duration: 1 Hour
6:30 PM: Dinner at Pujol
Pujol, founded by Enrique Olvera in 2000, revolutionized Mexican cuisine by blending traditional ingredients and techniques with modern innovation. Located in Polanco, it’s famed for dishes like “Mole Madre, Mole Nuevo,” symbolizing the fusion of heritage and creativity. Pujol prioritizes sustainability and local sourcing, showcasing Mexico’s culinary depth. Consistently ranked among the world’s best, it earned two Michelin stars in 2024, solidifying its status as Mexico’s top restaurant and a global culinary icon. It currently ranks number 33 on the World's 50 Best Restaurants list.
Address: Tennyson 133, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11570
Duration: 2.5 - 3 Hours
10:00 PM: Cocktails at Handshake Speakeasy
Ranked number 1 on the World's 50 Best Bars list, Handshake Speakeasy, is a distinguished bar celebrated for its Prohibition-era ambiance and innovative cocktails. Concealed behind an unmarked entrance, it offers an intimate setting with Art Deco décor, reminiscent of 1920s glamour. The bar is known for its molecular mixology, utilizing advanced culinary techniques to craft complex and creative cocktails. Signature drinks, such as their unique Piña Colada and Fig Martini, showcase a focus on regional ingredients and inventive presentations.
Address: C. Amberes 65, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, 06600
Duration: 1.5 Hours
Late Night Food: Taquería Orinoco (Zona Rosa)
Taquería Orinoco, originating from Monterrey, has become a culinary staple in Mexico City, renowned for its authentic northern-style tacos. It offers a concise yet flavorful menu featuring tacos al pastor, beef, and chicharrón, served on your choice of corn or flour tortillas. The chicharrón taco, known for its unique texture—crispy on the outside and tender inside—is particularly popular. The taquería's retro-inspired décor, complete with handcrafted signs and tiled walls, creates a nostalgic ambiance that complements its traditional offerings.
Address: Florencia 18, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, 06600
Monday: Depart
8:30am: Breakfast at Amanda Manda
Depending on your departure time, the final place we would recommend is Amanda Manda - a cozy taquería celebrated for its modern take on traditional Mexican flavors. Known for its charcoal-grilled tacos, pincho de tortilla, and fresh guacamole, the menu highlights simple yet expertly crafted dishes. Designed by the local studio Niños Héroes, the space combines Oaxacan clay elements, handmade tableware, and local art, creating an inviting and stylish atmosphere.
Address: Acapulco 13, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700
Duration: 1 Hour
Note: The airport is anywhere from 30 Minutes to 1 Hour from any of the recommended hotels. We also recommend getting there at least 2 hours before your flight given that it can be quite busy.
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