Advice

Let’s take a short break from the main itinerary to introduce a few other places that are worth discovering in Mexico City. If you still have a bit more energy to explore, head towards Plaza de la República, just a 15-minute walk from Alameda Central. This symbolic square, often used for demonstrations, features the Monument to the Revolution—the tallest triumphal arch in the world—as well as the National Museum of the Revolution. Another must-see is San Juan Market, also known as Ernesto Pugibet, one of the city’s most renowned markets for its wide selection of fine and exotic products from the Americas, some of which you can try on-site. Outside the historic center, there’s one neighborhood you must absolutely see, and that’s Coyoacán. Located in the southern part of the city, you’ll find the house of iconic painter Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera, an artist celebrated worldwide for his mural artwork. A visit that will take you through the work and daily life of two of the greatest painters in history. You can also check out the Frida Kahlo Museum, birthplace of the famous artist, and several other charming landmarks in the district. Another major religious and cultural site is the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe—the most visited Catholic pilgrimage site in the world after the Vatican. Built in the late 1970s at the base of a sacred hill, this cathedral is an essential stop when visiting Mexico City. A treasure trove steeped in history. To all tree huggers out there, Chapultepec Park offers a vast and natural escape to the South-west of Mexico City. Spanning over 686 hectares, this haven is filled with lawns, botanical gardens, and even the historic Chapultepec Castle, once home to the royal family. If you have a bit of time ahead, make your way to the Roma and Condesa neighbourhoods, reputated for having a chill atmosphere with their local markets, pleasant plazas, and artsy galleries. Those interested in venturing beyond the city should consider a trip to the awe-inspiring Teotihuacan pyramids—often called the City of Gods. Any hikers listening? Know that you’re in for a treat, because the region has so much to offer in terms of mountainous and volcanic trails surrounding the capital! And for anyone who’s more of a city person, colonial cities such as Puebla and Cuernavaca offer a rich cultural experience. Morelia, Guanajuato, and Guadalajara are also great cities to immerse yourself in the typical Mexican atmosphere. As you can see, if you choose to extend your stay in the region, you’ll have plenty to explore.