If you’re looking for a fun and exciting destination for a weekend getaway, consider spending a weekend in Mexico City. This high-altitude capital of Mexico, with over 22 million residents, is one of the most vibrant and cultured cities on Earth. Whether you’re into ancient ruins, world-class restaurants, trendy neighborhoods, or incredible museums, there’s something here for everyone.
With only two days in Mexico City, you’ll need to be strategic about what you see. There’s enough to occupy you for months, so choosing wisely is key. This two-day itinerary will help you make the most of your time in this dynamic city.
Start your weekend by heading straight to the Centro Histórico, the heart of Mexico City’s historical district. Begin your day at Café Regina, known for some of the best coffee in town and perfect for breakfast. After getting your caffeine fix, take a walking tour starting at 9:30 a.m. This three-hour, highly-rated tour offers an excellent introduction to the city, including landmarks like the Palacio de Bellas Artes, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Parque Alameda, the Templo Mayor, and the expansive Zócalo, the main central square.
After the tour, it’s time to indulge in one of CDMX’s iconic street foods: tacos. You’ll find countless fantastic taco spots in Centro Histórico. Los Callejeros is a favorite, but most are excellent.
Post-lunch, head to Chapultepec Park, one of Latin America’s largest. Here, you can visit the castle, take a boat ride on the lake, or simply relax. Across from the park is the National Museum of Anthropology, one of the world’s best museums. Spend your afternoon exploring its vast collection of artifacts from Mexico’s ancient cultures. The museum is extensive, spanning over 20 exhibit halls, so focus on highlights like the Mexica (Aztec) section, the Maya section, and the famous artifacts such as the Sun Stone and the Coyolxauhqui Stone.
For your first night, consider watching a football match or experiencing Lucha Libre for some authentic Mexican wrestling. The Estadio Azteca, home to Club América, Cruz Azul, and the Mexican national team, offers an incredible atmosphere. If tickets are hard to come by, there are other stadiums in the city to catch a game. Alternatively, Arena México is the place to watch Lucha Libre, where wrestlers perform in colorful masks in front of a lively audience. For safety, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area, take an Uber or opt for an organized group trip.
If you have room for dinner, head to the Roma neighborhood, known for its diverse dining options. La Roma Brewing is a great spot, offering local craft beer and tasty Mexican meals like shrimp tacos.
On your second day, enjoy a relaxed breakfast in La Condesa, one of the city’s most charming neighborhoods. Condesa is filled with leafy streets, beautiful architecture, and tranquil parks. Lardo is a trendy spot for breakfast, blending Mexican and European flavors.
Spend the morning strolling through La Condesa, visiting Parque México or browsing the vintage shops and boutiques. For another caffeine boost, try one of the local cafes like Blend Station.
In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Coyoacán neighborhood. For lunch, check out Tortas don Coyote, Tostadas Coyoacán, or the Antojitos Mexicanos Market. If you prefer a guided introduction to the area, there are tours showcasing Coyoacán’s best spots, including the Frida Kahlo Museum at La Casa Azul.
For your final evening, head to the Torre Latinoamericana for stunning sunset views over the city. Enjoy dinner or a drink as the sun sets behind the surrounding volcanoes. Finish your night at Conejo en la Luna, one of the best mezcal bars in the city. Try this smoky cousin of tequila, either neat or in a cocktail, with the help of knowledgeable bartenders.
If mezcal isn’t your thing, consider taking a salsa lesson, a fun way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Afterward, practice your new skills at Parque México in Condesa, where locals gather for salsa dancing.
Before you leave, here are a few tips:
1. Learn a bit of Spanish: It’ll help you get more out of your trip and is appreciated by locals.
2. Choose the right neighborhood: Stay in Condesa, Roma, or Centro Histórico for safety and convenience.
3. Know which areas to avoid: Avoid Ciudad Neza, Iztapalapa, Doctores, and Tepito, particularly at night.
4. Be aware: Stay vigilant, especially after dark, and avoid displaying valuables.
5. Use Ubers at night: While public transportation is usually safe during the day, it’s best to use Ubers after dark.
Most visitors arrive via Mexico City International Airport, and taking an Uber from the airport is the quickest way to get into the city. Alternatively, if you’re already in Mexico, you might consider taking a bus to Mexico City.
For accommodations, Airbnbs in safe neighborhoods like Condesa, Roma, or Centro Histórico are recommended.
With just two days in Mexico City, you’ll scratch the surface of what this incredible city has to offer. Whether you’re into history, culture, food, or art, Mexico City has something for everyone. Enjoy your trip!