Marvin and I are thrilled to welcome you to Mexico City, a place close to our hearts and filled with incredible history, art, and vibrant nightlife. As a proud Mexican, it is important to me that each of you gets a taste of our rich culture and unique highlights that make this city so special.
We’ve put together this guide, filled with our favorite spots and recommendations, to help you enjoy the best of Mexico City. We hope it adds a little extra warmth to your visit and that you fall in love with this city just as much as we have.
The city’s historic heart, the Zócalo, is surrounded by iconic sites like Palacio Nacional, the Catedral Metropolitana, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes. Also, don’t miss Plaza Garibaldi nearby, where live mariachi bands play every evening. For a glimpse into ancient Mexico, visit the Templo Mayor Museum and Aztec ruins just steps away.
COFFEE & BRUNCH: El Cardenal, Café de Tacuba
EAT & DRINK: Azul Historico in Hotel Downtown, Balcón del Zócalo, Tezontle, Cabo San Juan
ROOFTOPS: Hotel Downtown, La Casa de las Sirenas
This trendy, bohemian area is packed with cafes, independent art galleries, vintage shops, and parks like Parque México and Parque España. Vogue calls it Mexico City’s “hipster heart. Its lively nightlife include spots like Limantour, one of the world’s best cocktail bars, and other cool rooftop bars.
COFFEE & BRUNCH: Panaderia Rossetta, Lardo, Madre Café
RESTAURANT & BARS: Blanco Colima, Contramar, El Minutito, Café de Nadie, Mi Compa Chava, Handshake Speakeasy, Minos Soundroom, El Ayer
ROOFTOPS & CLUBS: Supra, Toledo, Huset, Departamento, Café Paraiso, Tokyo Bar
One of Mexico City’s most upscale neighborhoods, known for its luxury shopping along Avenida Masaryk and cultural landmarks like the Museo Soumaya and Museo Jumex. The Polanquito area and Parque Lincoln are perfect for strolling and people watching. With terraces, cafés, and exceptional restaurants like Pujol and Quintonil, polanco combines both elegance and a relaxed vibe. Make sure to try churros from Churreria El Moro
COFFEE & BRUNCH: Maque, Cafebrería El Péndulo, Catamundi, Café Toscano, Maison Belén, Kleins.
RESTAURANT & BARS: La Unica (Luisa's Fav), Cuerno, Entremar, Brassi, Siembra Tortilleria, La barra de Fran, Ticuchi.
BAR / CLUBS: Tokoya Speakeasy, Scotch Bar, Limantour, Bar Lampuga, Cantina La Sotomayor, Sala de Despecho, Jules Basement, Hop The Beer Experience 4.
One of the largest city parks in the world, Bosque de Chapultepec is home to Chapultepec Castle—North America’s only royal castle—and the Museo Nacional de Antropología, showcasing pre-Hispanic history. The park is a peaceful retreat and considered the city’s "lungs." Nearby Avenida Reforma is lined with iconic landmarks like the Ángel de la Independencia and Torre Reforma, offering a mix of culture, history, and urban energy.
COFFEE & BRUNCH: Fougasse Bakery, Aromas, Lago Algo, Bistro Chapultepec.
EAT & DRINK: Prime Steak Club, Trastevere, Nostos.
ROOFTOPS: Cityzen, Salazar, Terraza Cha Cha Cha.
San Ángel and Coyoacán are rich in history and colonial charm. San Ángel features cobblestone streets, historic mansions, and the famous El Bazar Sábado, a popular market for local crafts and art. The area is also home to the Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo, once the home of the iconic artists. In Coyoacán, the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul) stands as a tribute to the artist, while the historic central plaza and market showcase the area’s colonial roots. A short trip further south brings you to Xochimilco, where you can take a ride on the colorful trajineras through the canals, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Together, these areas offer a mix of history, art, and unique cultural experiences.
COFFEE & BRUNCH: Oxa, El Péndulo, El Olvidado
EAT & DRINK: San Ángel Inn, Los Danzantes, Mercado del Carmen.
For more: The Ultimate Guide to the Artistic and Creative Corners of San Angel, Mexico City Walking Tour
Known as the "City of the Gods," Teotihuacán is an ancient Aztec site that dates back to around 200 BCE. It features the iconic Pyramid of the Sun, Pyramid of the Moon, and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, all reflecting the remarkable architecture of the pre-Aztec civilizations. Located just one hour from Mexico City, it's a must-visit.
EAT: La Gruta
Don't forget to try the only Taqueria with a Michelin Star: Taquería El Califa de León
Qué hacer en CDMX: la guía Vogue para descubrirla
100 cosas que hacer en la Ciudad de México
The 27 Best Things to Do in Mexico City
The 12 Best Markets in Mexico City
Mexico City Guide: Centro Histórico, San Angel + Coyoacán, Condesa + Roma
San Angel Neighborhood Guide, Mexico City
San Angel Market, Mexico City (Saturday Bazaar)
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