7 Days in Mexico City: A Curated Itinerary
Mexico City offers a rich blend of history, food, and culture. This seven-day itinerary highlights must-visit landmarks, renowned restaurants, and hidden gems, making it easy to experience the best of the city without the stress of planning. I structured the itinerary by neighborhood to help maximize your time and minimize travel between locations, allowing for a more immersive experience in each area.
From the colorful streets of Coyoacán to the high-end elegance of Polanco, the historic charm of Centro Histórico, and the trendy hotspots in Roma and La Condesa, this guide ensures you see the best of the city. Uber is a reliable and accessible way to get around, but Mexico City is also pedestrian-friendly in many areas, with parks, plazas, and vibrant street life making it a joy to explore on foot.
This itinerary balances food, culture, history, and leisure, so whether you’re diving into Mexico’s pre-Hispanic past at Teotihuacán, savoring Michelin-starred meals, or hunting for unique finds at artisan markets, you’ll experience the city in a way that feels both exciting and approachable.
Day 1: Arrival & La Condesa
Arrive in Mexico City in the evening and check in during standard hours at a locally run B&B in La Condesa or Roma Norte (about a 45-minute drive from the airport). Tip: For a smoother arrival, take a licensed taxi from inside the airport, as Uber pickups are located farther away, requiring a longer walk to meet your driver.
Take a stroll through La Condesa, known for its tree-lined streets, Art Deco architecture, and vibrant café culture. Wander along Avenida Amsterdam and explore Proyecto Rufina, Mutuo, and Sereno Meco for boutiques, design shops, and specialty coffee. Farmacia Internacional Condesa is my favorite spot for great coffee in a beautifully designed space.
Dinner at Maizajo, known for its dedication to heirloom corn and traditional Mexican flavors (reservations recommended).
Bar suggestions: Natas Wines (closes at 11 pm) or Baltra Bar (closes at midnight).
Dessert at Churrería El Moro, a historic churro shop (closes at 11 pm).
Day 2: Coyoacán & Lucha Libre
Breakfast at Ecosentli, a casual spot serving traditional Mexican dishes.
Explore Coyoacán, a historic neighborhood known for its colonial charm, vibrant plazas, and artistic heritage. Visit Mercado de Coyoacán, a bustling market filled with street food, fresh produce, and artisanal goods. Pro tip: Stop by Quesadillas Doña Lucha, a local favorite known for its delicious handmade quesadillas. The owners are big Club América fans, so expect a lively atmosphere alongside great food.
Stop by Parque Coyoacán and Mercado de Artesanías for handmade items.
Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum (La Casa Azul) (advance reservation required).
Return to your stay for a rest before heading to Lucha Libre in Doctores (5:30–9:30 pm). Recommend booking with a local tour guide who specializes in Lucha Libre experiences.
Day 3: Polanco & Chapultepec
Breakfast at Cafebrería El Péndulo, a cozy bookstore café in Polanco.
Visit the Museo Nacional de Antropología, Mexico’s most important anthropology museum, home to an extensive collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts, including the famous Aztec Sun Stone. Admission is 95 MXN per person, and entry is free for Mexican citizens and residents on Sundays.
Lunch at Mari Gold, a sibling restaurant to Masala y Maíz, known for its fresh, seasonal menu and relaxed atmosphere. Conveniently located just a short walk from Casa Gilardi, reservations are highly recommended.
Visit Casa Gilardi, an architectural masterpiece (reservation required via email, 600 MXN pesos at the door).
Explore Castillo de Chapultepec, a historic hilltop castle offering panoramic city views and a glimpse into Mexico’s past. Once an imperial residence, it now houses the National Museum of History, featuring exhibits on Mexico’s colonial and revolutionary eras. Entrance fee: 95 MXN per person (free for Mexican citizens and residents on Sundays).
Stop by Librería Porrúa, a scenic bookstore overlooking Chapultepec Lake.
Early Dinner at Masala y Maíz, a must-visit spot blending Indian, African, and Mexican flavors in a unique, ingredient-driven menu (reservations required). Fun fact: The restaurant was featured in Season 7 of Netflix's Chef's Table. The chef owner is incredibly down-to-earth and hospitable, even stopping by our table to chat, making the experience even more special.
Head to Palacio de Bellas Artes for the Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández at 8:30 pm. This world-renowned show brings Mexico’s rich cultural heritage to life through stunning choreography, vibrant costumes, and live music, showcasing regional dances that blend pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern influences. Tickets range from $390–$1,590 MXN, depending on seating. Buy ahead at the official website to secure the best seats.
Day 4: Centro Histórico & Xochimilco
Start the morning with a light breakfast at Gala la Panadería or Odette, both known for their excellent pastries and coffee.
Afterward, head to Biblioteca Vasconcelos, a stunning multi-level library often called a "mega library" for its scale, featuring an open design and hanging bookshelves that create a futuristic atmosphere.
Next, visit Palacio de Bellas Artes, one of Mexico City’s most iconic landmarks, famous for its stunning stained-glass curtain and Diego Rivera’s mural Man at the Crossroads. Just a short walk away, stop by Museo Mural Diego Rivera, home to Sueño de una Tarde Dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda Central), a masterpiece blending key figures from Mexican history with surrealist and social commentary. Admission is 40 MXN per person (cash only), with an additional 5 MXN fee for photography.
Continue to Casa de los Azulejos, an 18th-century palace covered in striking blue-and-white Talavera tiles, now home to a Sanborns restaurant. Take a moment to admire its ornate exterior or grab a quick snack inside.
Finally, take a walk through Zócalo and the surrounding Centro Histórico, exploring the grand main square and its historic landmarks, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace, and Templo Mayor, where Mexico’s pre-Hispanic and colonial histories intertwine.
Lunch at El Cardenal, a historic beloved spot since 1969, known for its traditional Mexican cuisine and warm hospitality. Famous for its house-made bread, nata, and chocolate caliente, the menu features classics like escamoles, chiles en nogada (seasonal), and slow-cooked meats, offering an authentic taste of Mexico’s culinary heritage.
Head to Xochimilco for a traditional trajinera boat ride through its famous canals. The colorful boats provide a lively and scenic way to experience this UNESCO-listed waterway. Trajinera rentals cost 750 MXN per boat, accommodating up to 18 people. Mariachi and marimba bands often perform along the canals, but their services are not included in the boat rental—they charge per song if you choose to hire them.
Rest before dinner at Baldío, a zero-waste restaurant committed to sustainability, seasonality, and locally sourced ingredients. Their innovative approach to reducing food waste results in an ever-evolving menu that highlights fresh, creative dishes. Reservations are recommended.
Day 5: Teotihuacán, Shopping & Roma Norte
Start the day with an early morning hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacán, offering breathtaking views of the ancient pyramids at sunrise (booked with Viator). Temperatures can be chilly at high altitudes, so it's best to bring layers for warmth.
After landing, continue exploring the Teotihuacán archaeological site, home to the Pyramid of the Sun, Pyramid of the Moon, and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent. The site can get very hot during the day, so be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle to stay comfortable. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended for navigating the large complex.
Late lunch at Paradero Conocido, a Michelin-recognized restaurant with a warm atmosphere and excellent natural wine selection.
Visit Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela for handcrafted souvenirs (closes at 7 pm).
Explore Roma Norte, a vibrant neighborhood known for its mix of boutique clothing stores, vintage shops, popular bars, and trendy restaurants. As you stroll through its leafy streets, you'll find unique concept stores like Pingüino, Metate, and Cara de Planta, offering a curated selection of fashion, home goods, and artisanal products.
Dinner at Mi Compa Chava, famous for its prawns and octopus. Be prepared for a wait, but it’s worth it. Don't miss their rotating soft-serve flavors.
Bar options: Shhh Listening Bar or Café de Nadie for unique cocktails and ambiance.
Day 6: San Ángel & Juárez
Breakfast at Amanda Manda, known for its comforting, homestyle dishes. Their chilaquiles verdes are a must-try, and their fresh pastries make for a perfect start to the day.
Visit Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo, the former home and studio of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo provides insight into their creative process and personal lives. The modernist architecture, designed by Juan O’Gorman, is striking. Admission: 40 MXN per person (cash only); additional 30 MXN for photography.
Explore El Bazar Sábado, a vibrant artisan market held every Saturday in San Ángel. This bustling marketplace showcases handmade crafts, textiles, jewelry, and art, making it an excellent spot to find high-quality souvenirs and connect with local artists.
Late Lunch at Expendio de Maíz, a Michelin Guide-listed restaurant with a cash-only policy and walk-in-only service (arrive early).
Explore Juárez neighborhood, particularly Calle Marsella, where you’ll find Caan Crudo, Vera Colectivo, Korimi México, Perla Valtierra, and Utilario Mexicano for curated fashion and home goods.
Dinner at Choza, a relaxed spot serving bold flavors. Their som tum salad is intensely spicy, and the whole fried fish is a must-try. Their house-made frozen daiquiri is a great way to end the trip. No reservations; open from 3–9 PM.
Dessert at La Rifa Chocolatería, specializing in artisanal Mexican cacao. Enjoy a rich hot chocolate or pick up handcrafted chocolate gifts to take home. Open from 8:30 am to 9 pm.
Day 7: Sunday Markets & Departure
Breakfast at Expendio de Maíz, a Michelin Guide favorite known for its ever-changing menu centered around heirloom corn. Arrive early, as it's walk-in only and fills up quickly.
Visit Lagunillas Tiangüis, a flea market known for vintage finds and antiques (opens at 10 am). Carry cash, but stay aware of your surroundings, as the area can be a bit rough.
Lunch at Lalo's, a lively, casual spot in Roma Norte, known for its communal tables, vibrant atmosphere, and flavorful dishes.
Head back to your accommodation to pack and relax before an evening departure.
Note: I do not earn any commission, sponsorship, or compensation from the places mentioned in this itinerary. These are simply spots I personally visited and experienced during my stay in Mexico City. My recommendations are based on firsthand experiences to help others explore the city in an authentic and enjoyable way.
