5 Days In Mexico City: The Ultimate Itinerary (By A Pro!)
Last Updated on May 19, 2024 by Ashlea J. Russell
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Wondering How To Spend The Perfect 5 Days In Mexico City?
I have spent a lot of time in Mexico City over the years and I still do because it’s the sort of place I just never tire of exploring.
But for a first-timer or even a second or third-timer it can be hard to know where to spend your days in a city so full of options. That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate itinerary for 5 days in Mexico City.
Before becoming a travel writer I worked in the travel industry for years specializing in tailormade itineraries. So I know what it takes to build an itinerary that maximizes on time, hits the main attractions, and includes a few hidden gems.
So let’s get into it!
Markets & Salsa Tour
If you do one thing in Mexico City take this all in one food tour/market tour/walking tour/cooking class. It’s the best way to experience authentic local life and I loved every minute of it!
5 Days In Mexico City Overview
This 5 day Mexico City itinerary is packed full of my favourite spots including some you won’t find in the guidebooks. I’ve also included a few alternatives if budget or interest isn’t a match for you.
Just remember that this itinerary is full of everything you can do during a 5 day trip to Mexico City.
But you’ll want to leave a little flexibility in your plans in case you stumble upon something unexpected, meet some new friends, or decide to just roam.
Itinerary Summary
5 Days In Mexico City: Day 1
Welcome to Mexico City! The first day of your 5 day trip is all about hitting the main iconic sights of Mexico City and getting comfortable in your new surroundings.
Morning: Centro Histórico Discovery
Make your way by Uber from your accommodation to the historic centre.
Breakfast with a View
If this is your first Mexican breakfast I recommend ordering Chilaquiles, a traditional breakfast of corn tortilla chips covered in salsa, topped with a fresh egg or shredded chicken.
Fueled up and ready to go, it’s time to explore. The best introduction to Mexico City is by way of a free walking tour.
Centro Histórico Free Walking Tour
I love the free walking tours by Estación Mexico and their Centro Histórico tour covers all the main spots and a few hidden gems.
The tour meets in front of the Metropolitan Cathedral and visits the ruins of the Cathedral, Templo Mayor, National Palace, Palacio de Bellas Artes, the famous Post Office, and more.
The tour lasts around 2-2.5 hours and by the end you will have lots of amazing photos and feel comfortable exploring on your own.
At the end of your walking tour you may want to head back to the Templo Mayor to visit the museum inside. Tickets cost $95MXN [$5.75USD/$7.80CAD] Tuesday – Saturday. The museum is free on Sunday and closed on Monday. If you’ve seen enough of these ruins we’ll head to the next stop!
Afternoon: The Aztec Sun Stone
Mexico City is bursting with museums with hundreds to choose from, but when it comes down to it, few are as popular as the Museum of Anthropology.
This museum, located inside Chapultepec Park is an amazing stop for anyone interested in Mexican culture and history. Teeming with art and artifacts from the Maya to the Aztecs, it’s easy to lose the afternoon here.
The two must-sees for me in this museum are the replica Mayan temple and the Aztec Sun Stone, a massive artifact rescued from the Templo Mayor ruins.
Looking For An Alternative?
Not into anthropology? Why not make the climb to Chapultepec Castle instead?🏰
The castle sits perched on a hill high above the city with incredible sweeping views you won’t get elsewhere. The castle also houses the National History Museum which covers hundreds of years of history including that of the presidents and Emperor who lived there.
If you’re more into art than history, hop into an Uber and head to Museo Jumex, home to one of Latin America’s largest private contemporary art collections. The collection features work from the likes of Warhol, Koons, and Hirst.
Evening:
You’ll want to have a good dinner before heading out for your first night on the town in Mexico City.
But First, Food
Blanco Colima is one of my favourite restaurants in Mexico City. This is a nicer restaurant located next door to the famed Rosetta in Roma but my experiences at Blanco Colima have always surpassed those of Rosetta.
The restaurant features a fantastic Global-Mexican menu, one of the largest selections of drinks I’ve seen in the city, and outstanding service in a stunning setting.
Colonia Juárez is my favourite area to stay in Mexico City and spots like this are what make it so great.
Comedor Lucerna is like a food hall with table service. You can choose from a variety of restaurants specializing in different dishes plus enjoy tasty cocktails all for a great price in a buzzy atmosphere.
Follow the Music
Music is such a huge part of Mexican culture and Mexico City has it in spades! Whether you prefer full blown dancing or casual nodding along, music should be part of everyone’s Mexico City itinerary.
If dancing is your thing Mama Rumba is a great place to start. This Latin dance club in Roma Norte is perfect for beginners as they offer dance lessons and fellow dancers are willing to show you a thing or two.
The specialty here is Cuban salsa which is one of the easier dances to pick up.
This Cantina features live bands playing Banda music which is a really fun regional style. The bands are huge! With 10+ members playing everything from trombones to trumpets, the atmosphere is electric.
For something more mellow, Mexico City has an excellent jazz scene. Casa Franca is my favourite jazz spot, hidden above a pizza joint in Roma. The performers here are some of the best in the city with a real speakeasy vibe.
This club is small and sells out so make sure you WhatsApp or Instagram them to get on the list.
Mexico City Itinerary: Day 2
Today is all about culture! Get off-the-beaten-path and see the local side to daily life in Mexico City and later, experience the spectacle of Mexican wrestling!
Morning: Salsa, Tacos, & Local Life
Starting steps from the Metropolitan Cathedral, you’ll meet your guide and head off on a truly authentic off-the-beaten path experience that will take you to parts of Mexico City most tourists never see.
A short walk from the Zócalo you’ll turn a corner and suddenly step from the tourist centre into a local neighbourhood buzzing with the comings and goings of daily life in Mexico City.
On this tour you’ll learn about the beating heart of Mexican life (the markets), fill up on authentic Mexican food, discover hidden art, walk in ancient footsteps, and take a cooking class from a local family.
You will spend the day exploring two truly authentic markets (including the largest flower market in the city).
Navigating the labyrinth with colourful piñatas overhead and the aroma of fresh flowers in the air while rubbing shoulders with the locals, chatting with vendors, and enjoying delicious street food side by side with Chilangos (Mexico City locals).
After shopping for ingredients, you’ll make your way to a local family restaurant and learn to prepare and make salsa verde from scratch, the traditional way.
Afternoon: Mount the Monument
The Market tour ends in the early afternoon. With a full belly and thousands of steps under your belt, you may want to head back to your accommodation for a nap.
Monument to the Revolution
Not ready to call it a day?
At the end of your tour you’ll take the metro back to the Zócalo. Stay on two more stops to the Revolucion stop and make the short walk to Plaza de la República to visit a monument that’s more popular with Mexicans than tourists.
The dome of this monument was originally built as part of a future Palace but was eventually repurposed into a monument to the heroes of the Mexican Revolution and stands as the tallest triumphal arch in the world.
There’s often an Indigenous market at the foot of the monument so feel free to browse before heading inside.
Check out the subterranean museum before taking the glass elevator up to the observation deck. Grab a drink or snack at the cafeteria and take in the views of the city.
If you don’t mind climbing some stairs, continue up another level to the highest viewpoint of the monument.
Evening: Pick A Side At Lucha Libre
It’s time to grab a bite before catching a show later tonight.
Grab a Bite
Here, they elevate the humble burger with Mexican flavours and even have vegan and options, so everyone can find something they like. Plus they have a fantastic cocktail list.
This incredible restaurant offers unexpected and delicious combinations like hoisin duck tacos and Thai enchiladas. The menu is varied from meat to seafood to noodles and vegan options.
Now it’s time to freshen up before continuing your Mexico City adventure.
Catch the Lucha Libre
No Mexico City itinerary is complete without a night at the Lucha Libre!
With fire, flips, and flying luchadores, Lucha Libre is a theatrical spectacular and the second most watched sport in Mexico after football (soccer).
Head to the Arena México, grab a michelada (a Mexican beer cocktail), and get involved!
Pick a side and cheer and jeer along with the local crowd. The audience gets very excited which makes for an electric atmosphere and you don’t have to be a fan of wrestling or sports to enjoy this experience.
After the show grab a mask or a souvenir at the stalls outside to remember this night.
Looking For An Alternative?
Not sure wrestling is your thing? Why not check out the Ballet Folklórico de México instead? 💃🏽
Not your average “ballet”, this show is a journey through Mexican music and dance from the Indigenous and beyond. This stunning performance features some of the best artists in Mexico and is a special way to learn about Mexican culture.
Shows play on Sundays and Wednesdays at the gorgeous Palacio de Bellas Artes. Seasonal performances are held at Chapultepec Castle so read carefully before booking.
Mexico City Itinerary: Day 3
At the midpoint of your 5 days in Mexico City, we’re going to explore the bohemian barrio of Coyoacán, a very different experience from the rest of the city.
Morning: Explore Mexico City’s Oldest Neighbourhood
It’s time to put your newfound public transit knowledge to work. Grab your morning coffee and take the metro south to Coyoacán.
Coyoacán Free Walking Tour
Coyoacán is the oldest neighbourhood in Mexico City and was the last area to join the city. Best known for being home to Frida Kahlo House (more on her later!), this barrio is full of history, beauty, and charm that is totally different than what you will find elsewhere in Mexico City.
The best way to explore the cobblestone streets of Coyoacán is on foot with a free walking tour from my favourite operator in the city.
I hope your camera is charged, because this tour meanders through the picturesque laneways of Coyoacán where you’ll hear the legends of the conquistadors, learn the indigenous history of this area, discover tucked away street art, marvel at stunning architecture, and more.
This tour is the perfect introduction to this important barrio and lasts around 2-2.5 hours with frequent stops.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes and watch your step on the colonial roads.
Afternoon: Discover Street Food & Art
The free walking tour finishes in the centre of Coyoacán near the Jardín Centenario. By now you’ve probably worked up an appetite so let’s fuel up with some street food!
Elotes & The Mercados
Elotes, also known as Mexican Street Corn, are a famous Mexican snack loved by many and the best place to try this is Coyoacán.
By this point you’ve likely passed a few vendors grilling the corn on the cob streetside but I’ve got a hidden a gem for you.
This local food market is almost always missed by tourists but loved by locals. Don’t expect any English here! Get your Spanish ready and order some Elotes.
When you’re ready, make your way back toward the Jardín Centenario and down toward Frida Kahlo Museum, also know as the Blue House.
About halfway through your walk you’ll come to Mercado No. 89 Coyoacán. This traditional Mexican market has everything from piñatas to fresh fruit and everything in between.
Head toward the centre of the market where you’ll find the hustling, bustling food vendors. The staff will get you seated and you can order from any restaurant in the market.
Don’t be afraid to try something new but remember, a lot of Mexican dishes are huge so order wisely.
The Blue House
Once you’ve finished exploring the market continue down toward the Frida Kahlo Museum (you can’t miss it, it’s the big blue house!).
Frida Kahlo is one of the most recognizable Mexicans in history and a feminist icon. The Blue House was her home that she shared with her (on again off again) husband, famed muralist Diego Rivera.
The house is beautiful and filled with art, artifacts, and belongings from the couple.
The museum does a fantastic job of displaying the work, complicated relationships, and everyday life of Frida, as well as digging into the challenges she faced as a person living with disabilities.
Don’t miss my favourite part of the museum, the exhibit at the back of the courtyard featuring Frida’s clothes and how she came to define her signature style.
You can explore this museum by yourself in about 60-90 minutes but if you have a particular interest or want to learn more as only some of the signage is in English, a guided tour is a great option.
Looking For An Alternative?
Not into Frida? Why not check out the Museo de El Carmen instead? 🔔
This 400 year old former convent-come-museum in neighbouring San Ángel is the only place in Mexico City to see mummies.
Museo de El Carmen is open Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 5pm. Current ticket prices are $60MXN [$3.60USD/$4.90CAD] and free on Sundays.
On Saturdays San Ángel also plays host to a fantastic market known as El Bazar Sábado, perfect for picking up high quality handmade goods and souvenirs.
Evening: Colourful Xochimilco
Since you’re already down in Coyoacán this is the perfect time to visit UNESCO World Heritage Site of Xochimilco.
This area is known to produce some of the best ingredients found in the top Mexico City restaurants but it’s best known for the colourful boat fiestas.
Hop in an Uber and make your way to Xochimilco where you can easily negotiate and hire your own trajinera (boat) and trajinero (the man in charge of the boat).
If there’s only one or two people in your group then I recommend joining a tour instead. Joining a Xochimilco tour means making new friends, playing games, and eating snacks. It also means if you decide to hire a mariachi the cost is shared!
I recommend taking a tour with the Xochiamigas. This female-owned company has really thought of everything from a guacamole competition to quality drinks and outstanding hosting skills.
It may be a little tacky, but that’s half the fun of Xochimilco!
Mexico City Itinerary: Day 4
Now that you’ve had some time to explore Mexico City, it’s time for a day trip. Set your alarm because we’re going on an adventure!
Morning: Fly Back In Time
This morning you’ll wake up before the sun, while Mexico City is still asleep and head out on a memory-making adventure.
A 45 minute drive south of the city lie the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacán and the best way to take in the grandeur of this important archeological site is from above.
You’ll climb into a basket and float beneath a hot air balloon over the pyramids, getting a birds eye view of this city of old.
I booked this experience to celebrate my birthday and it is one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life.
For around 45 minutes you’ll fly over the pyramids, so close it feels like you could reach out and touch them. As the sun rises it washes the ancient city in golden light and surrounded by magical balloons you’ll be in awe.
A champagne toast and flight certificate await your descent before you head back to the balloonport to enjoy a Mexican breakfast to the soundtrack of a live mariachi band.
Looking For An Alternative?
Balloons and pyramids aren’t what you’re looking for? How about a day trip to the stunning hot springs at Grutas Tolantongo? 🏞️
Grutas Tolantongo should be on everyone’s Mexico bucket list and a day trip from Mexico City is a great way to visit.
I took the Tolantongo Express tour which beats the traffic and hits the picture-perfect mountainside pools before anyone else arrives. You will also spend time in the enchanting cave and lounging in the vibrant blue river.
This is an experience you’re not soon to forget.
Afternoon: Walk Through History At Teotihuacán
For any history lover or fan of archeological sites Teotihuacán is an important stop on a Mexico City itinerary.
This impressive site dates back thousands of years and is home to the third largest pyramid in the world, the Pyramid of the Sun. This city was once a major economic hub with a population of around 200,000 and there is evidence of a trade route between here and Monte Alban in Oaxaca as well as other settlements further south.
You can explore Teotihuacán on your own but to learn more it’s a good idea to hire a licensed English-speaking guide, available at the entrance gates.
These guides are certified and around $800MXN [$50USD/$65CAD] per group will get you a two hour tour around the ruins.
Evening: Tequila & Mariachis
When you’re back in the city you may want to freshen up and take a nap after your early start. Then it’s time to get really Mexican.
Tequila Museum & Tasting
Hop in an Uber and make your way to the Museum of Tequila & Mezcal. This museum walks you through the production and differences of tequila and mezcal along with how they fit into Mexican culture.
Each ticket to the museum includes a tasting of one tequila and one mezcal which should get you in the mood for what comes next!
If you fancy trying a few other options you can visit the cantina inside the museum where you can order flights and find out more about what you like.
Plaza Garibaldi & Los Mariachis
The Museum of Tequila & Mezcal happens to sit right on Plaza Garibaldi. This plaza is best know for being where the mariachis assemble as they wait to be hired.
For a truly Mexican experience make your way to Salón Tenampa, just around the corner from the museum.
This lively Mexican bar and grill features delicious, authentic Mexican food and some of the best mariachi bands performing right in the dining room.
Mexico City Itinerary: Day 5
It’s the last of your 5 days in Mexico City so it’s time to take it easy and soak in the city vibes while exploring one of my favourite underrated neighbourhoods, Colonia Juárez.
Morning: Chocolate…
Head to Café Nin, a neighbourhood favourite for outstanding coffee and a delicious breakfast. This is a popular spot with those in the know so come early, especially on weekends.
Fueled up and energized you can roam the leafy streets of Colonia Juárez popping in and out of the amazing boutiques and shops in this area as you make your way to MUCHO Museo del Chocolate.
This quirky little museum walks you through the history of chocolate in Mexico and the different ways it is processed and used.
There’s a store on the main floor to pick up some chocolates to go but I suggest you save the drinks for our next hidden gem.
Afternoon: Chocolate & Chocolate
From chocolate to chocolate and then more chocolate.
Mexican Drinking Chocolate
This unassuming little chocolate shop is a mandatory stop on any trip to Colonia Juárez. Far from the tourist trail, this spot is frequented by locals and the occasional traveller in “the know”.
Follow the menu and build your perfect Mexican drinking chocolate step by step. You’ll choose a size, a strength, water or milk, hot or cold, any additions you like and end up with a perfect drinking chocolate made just the way you like it.
This business is all about sustainability too, so you can feel good knowing you’re supporting an ethical business.
They can tell you down to the farm where they bought the chocolate from and which communities they are supporting in Mexico.
Looking For An Alternative?
Too much chocolate for one day? Why not try a delicious gelato instead?🍦
Joe Gelato is the best gelato shop in all of Mexico City. This little hole in the wall shop is big on flavour. With a mix of established, rotating, and feature flavours you’ll struggle to pick just one.
Keep an eye on their Instagram for the daily menu or check the chalkboard on the wall outside. If you’re feeling adventurous try one of the Mexican flavours like pixtle, the seed of the mamey fruit.
Artisan Shopping
A short walk from from La Rifa you’ll find a place where I always end up spending hours.
This mansion is home to one of my favourite lunch spots, Petit Roquefort, as well as a plethora of Mexican-owned boutiques.
From one of a kind alebrijes to local designer goods, unique silver jewellery to handmade soaps and candles, vintage clothing to small label mezcal, and beyond. This place has such variety and all of these artisans share the space together.
Evening: A View to Remember
On your last night in Mexico City there’s really only one place I recommend visiting to make a lasting memory.
This restaurant sits on the 38th floor of the Sofitel Reforma and features a wraparound outdoor terrace with stunning views of the mountains and iconic landmarks such as the Angel of Independence and Chapultepec Castle.
Aim to arrive before sunset so you can watch the city turn from day to night while gushing about your newfound love of Mexico City over delicious cocktails.
Be sure to order a few dishes like the delicious short rib tacos and make sure you don’t skip dessert!
At night the restaurant offers cozy blankets and gas heaters so take your time and soak up your last minutes in Mexico City.
Where To Stay In Mexico City
There are several safe neighbourhoods in Mexico City to choose from. My favourite area is Colonia Juárez because of it’s cool authentic vibe.
Condesa and Roma are also popular neighbourhoods for travellers and Centro Histórico is great for those on a tight budget or timeframe. Here are a few great options:
📍Best Budget Spot: Viajero CDMX Centro is the perfect place to stay to meet fellow travellers. Five minutes walking from the Zócalo, the location is prime for exploration. Enjoy social spaces, a restaurant, bar and concierge services. Bunks start at $17USD/$23CAD per night including breakfast and WiFi.
📍Best Mid-Range Spot: The Dib is a gorgeous boutique aparthotel with modern units in a historic building. The Dib is in the heart of all that Roma has to offer, from the best cafes and restaurants to galleries and shopping. Suites start at $105USD/$135CAD per night for strong WiFi, gym and many with private terraces.
📍Best Luxury Spot: Casa Emilia is my favourite hotel in Mexico City. This is the ultimate adults-only luxury Mexican experience with VIP service, premium products, Mexican wines, and prime location. Rooms start at just $200USD/$267CAD per night including an excellent breakfast.
Getting Around Mexico City
Despite how large it is, getting around Mexico City is actually pretty straight forward.
Uber & Taxis
Most travellers opt for using Uber in Mexico City as an affordable and safe way to get around. Uber is widely available across the city along with DiDi, another popular ride-sharing app. It’s worth having both apps on your phone when you visit Mexico because they take turns being the fastest and cheapest option.
Regular pink and white taxis are also available in Mexico City, but I largely recommend avoiding these. Uber and DiDi are typically cheaper and with all the build-in safety features, you’re much less likely to run into any issues.
If you decide to take a taxi in Mexico City here are a few tips you should use:
Walking & Public Transit
Walking is a great way to explore Mexico City. With lots of wide sidewalks, lush green parks, and pedestrian-only areas, walking is my favourite way to get around in the city.
However, due to the scale of Mexico City walking is really only practical within neighbourhoods or neighbouring barrios. To get from one area to another you’ll need to use an Uber or public transit.
Public transit is also a great option for the braver travellers. At only $5MXN [$0.30USD/$0.40CAD] it’s the cheapest way to get around aside from the ol’ heel-toe express (walking).
The metro system connects most of the city and is easy to navigate by following the colour of lines and the symbols used for each stop. It even features cars exclusive to women and children for a little extra ease as a female.
Tips For Planning Your Itinerary
Planning the perfect Mexico City itinerary is all about balance. Here are the top tips I learned as a professional itinerary planner.
Do Your Research
The number of things to do and see in Mexico City is endless. No matter how much time I spend in Mexico City my list of things to explore somehow gets longer rather than shorter.
To maximize on time, do your research in advance and come up with a list of things to do, restaurants, activities, etc. that interest you.
While it’s always great to stumble upon hidden gems, it’s nice to have a list of ideas you’re already interested in ready to go for when you’re tired, hungry, or short on time.
Plan Your Musts
Spontaneity can be fun but nothing’s worse than finding out you missed something major in your destination and you don’t know when or if you’ll ever be back.
This is why I like to anchor my trips with one or two must items. Whether that’s a restaurant I want to try, a museum I want to visit, or an experience I want to cross off, these are the things I’m definitely going to do on my trip.
When deciding on your must items it’s important to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Maybe that restaurant you have your heart set on requires advanced reservation, the museum you want to see has odd hours, or that amazing tour sells out most weeks.
Figure out the logistics of what is most important to you and work the rest of your trip around that.
Stay Flexible
In all my years working in travel and planning dream trips, the number one mistake I see travellers make is not leaving flexibility in their itinerary.
If you can’t tell by now, I’m a detail-oriented traveller. I like to know the nitty gritty so I can be as prepared as possible and have a smooth trip. That’s why I provide so much information to my readers.
But in reality, things don’t always go the way you planned.
Staying flexible gives you room to pivot if unexpected issues arise, but also allows you to fit in new discoveries you’re sure to make along the way.
Planning every single second of your trip in a place like Mexico City means that something as typical as getting caught in traffic can set off a chain of events that scuppers your whole day.
Or overplanning can mean you’re rushing through a museum that’s more interesting than you expected or you don’t have time to chat with that shop owner about how they make their goods and take a mini tour of the workshop.
When planning your itinerary make sure you have plenty of options, give yourself more time than you think you’ll need, and leave gaps to fill with unexpected discoveries.
FAQs
You’re got questions about Mexico City and I’ve got answers!
Is 5 Days Enough Time in Mexico City?
Five days is a great amount of time to visit Mexico City. In five days you can hit many of the main attractions and get a feel for the city. On my first trip to Mexico City I planned to stay for three days and ended up staying for two weeks!
How Many Days Is Ideal in Mexico City?
Five days to seven days in Mexico City is ideal introduction to the city and enough time to visit the main attractions while leaving time to explore. However, there is so much to do and see in Mexico City it would be easy to spend a month here and still be discovering new places.
Is Mexico City Walkable?
Yes and no. Mexico City is walkable within the different neighbourhoods but the city is sprawling so travelling from barrio to barrio usually requires an Uber or public transit.
Why Is Mexico City So Expensive?
Mexico has a reputation for being a “cheap” travel destination but the truth is, inflation has caused prices to rise here just like everywhere else in the world. On top of that, Mexico City is a world-class city that caters to all sorts of different people.
It’s possible to have a very luxurious trip to Mexico City but it’s also possible to save money by eating street food, shopping at the markets, and taking public transport.
Summary: 5 Days In Mexico City
Mexico City is a dream destination for anyone looking for variety and this 5 day itinerary definitely delivers on variety!
As a lover and frequent traveller or Mexico City I’ve vetted the best places to eat, things to do, and areas to stay so you can spend less of your time planning and more of your time exploring this incredible city.