Secret Mexico

Mexico City Travel Guide

Mexico City is one of the most popular travel destinations in North America. This guide will help you plan your visit, providing insights on what to do, where to go, and what to expect in terms of costs. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and abundant attractions, Mexico City should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Cost of Living in Mexico City

Mexico City offers a wide range of price points. While some areas and experiences can be expensive, the city also provides many affordable options. Costs vary significantly depending on the neighborhood and your chosen lifestyle.

Safety
As with any large city, it’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. While Mexico City has made significant improvements in safety, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise normal precautions and be mindful of your belongings.

Cultural Tips

• Arrive early at museums, as they often close their doors 30 minutes before the listed closing time.
• Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites.
• Mexico City has strict smoking laws. Smoking is prohibited in most public spaces.

About Mexico City

Mexico City is one of the largest urban areas in the world. The city proper has a population of about 9 million, while the greater metropolitan area is home to over 21 million people. The city is renowned for its culinary scene, offering everything from high-end restaurants to delicious street food.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Mexico City is generally from March to May and from October to November. These periods offer pleasant weather and avoid the rainy season, which typically runs from June to September. However, the city can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering its own charm.

Getting Around

Mexico City boasts an excellent public transportation system:

• Metro: An extensive and efficient subway network, though it can get crowded during peak hours.
• Buses: Local buses run 24 hours a day.
• Taxis: Readily available, but use official sitios (taxi stands) or ride-hailing apps for safety.
• Uber: A reliable and often more affordable option than traditional taxis.
• Walking: Many neighborhoods like Polanco or Condesa are pedestrian-friendly and perfect for exploring on foot.

Top Attractions

1. Templo Mayor: Ancient Aztec ruins in the heart of the city.
2. Zócalo: The main square, home to the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace.
3. Angel de la Independencia: An iconic monument and symbol of the city.
4. Palacio de Bellas Artes: A stunning cultural center hosting art exhibitions and performances.
5. Paseo de la Reforma: A wide avenue featuring important monuments and modern skyscrapers.
6. National Museum of Anthropology: Houses an extensive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts.

Where to Stay in Mexico City

Mexico City offers accommodations for every budget, from hostels to luxury hotels. Zona Rosa is a popular area for tourists, close to many attractions and nightlife spots. Other recommended neighborhoods include Condesa, Roma, and Polanco.

How Long to Stay

A minimum of three to four days is recommended to explore the main attractions. However, a week or more would allow for a deeper dive into the city’s culture, museums, and surrounding areas.

Nightlife in Mexico City

Mexico City boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in areas like Zona Rosa, Condesa, and Roma. From traditional cantinas to modern clubs, there’s something for every taste. Don’t miss the opportunity to try mezcal or tequila at local bars.

Hidden Gems

• Bar Rouge in Cholula: A stylish nightclub with excellent cocktails.
• Underground bars in San Angel: Offering unique atmospheres and street art.
• Fusion restaurants in Roma Norte: Combining innovative cocktails with Mexican fusion cuisine.

Interesting Facts

• Mexico City’s metro system, opened in 1969, now has 12 lines covering over 200km.
• The city is home to over 150 museums, more than any other city in the world.
• Mexico City’s historic center, including the Templo Mayor and Metropolitan Cathedral, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Remember, Mexico City is a vast metropolis with endless possibilities. This guide offers just a glimpse of what the city has to offer. Enjoy your visit to this vibrant and historic capital!

Most secret places in Mexico city Nightlife

Mexico City has a big amount of historical sites and buildings, but if you go down to the underground level you will find more interesting places. Places that may be called “secret” for some, but where cool stuff happens every day.

Bar Rouge

Bar Rouge has a small entrance that may be easy to pass by, but this place is amazing. This is a nightclub that you can find in Cholula district (ancient city) and it is full of high designer pieces and expensive furniture. It is usually these places where people go to get wasted, but Bar Rouge has one of the best cocktails in town, and you can even eat.

Subterranean bars

There are some underground bars around the city, but the one I particularly like is located in San Angel. This place has an amazing vibe and it’s decorated with street art, plus you will find some of the best bars in town.

If you go down the stairs and then to your right, you will find a small church that is decorated with old paintings and other pieces.

Fusion restaurant

This place is located in Roma Norte district, and it has amazing cocktails and food based on mexican fusion cuisine. The decoration is really interesting, made with tiles and geometric pieces that give the place a unique vibe.