Choose from 51 Fun Things to Do in Mexico City
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Diego Rivera-Anahuacalli Museum
The Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum, commonly just referred to as the Anahuacalli Museum, can be tricky to find in Mexico City, but it is worth the extra effort to visit. Diego Rivera was a famous painter who was known for his cubist style and murals. He lived in Mexico City for most of his life and was married to the artist Frida Kahlo. The Anahuacalli Museum is designed by him and houses ancient artifacts he amassed during his lifetime as well as some of his own works of art.
The museum was opened in 1964, after Rivera’s death, though the layout and design of Anahuacalli was planned out by the artist prior to his passing. The pyramid-shaped building made of volcanic stone is impressive in and of itself to see, but the real allure of the museum is inside where 2,000 artifacts from his massive Pre-Columbian art collection is housed. A tour through the museum will teach you about the history of Mexico’s ancient civilizations, a subject Rivera was especially passionate about.
Practical Info
Anahuacalli Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guided tours start every half hour and generally last 45 to 60 minutes. Your ticket to Anahuacalli Museum also gets you admittance to the Frida Kahlo Museum, which is also in Mexico City. Anahuacalli Museum is located in the Coyoacan neighborhood of Mexico City at Calle Museo 150 San Pablo Tepetlapa.
Address: Museo 150, San Pablo Tepetlapa, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: $60 pesos
From $ 7
Angel of Independence (Monumento a la Independencia)
Built in 1910, this iconic monument commemorates the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the nation’s War of Independence. Its towering stone column stretches high into the Mexico City skyline and both drivers and pedestrians can see its golden angel statue as they move about the popular Paseo de la Reforma.
Once a monument of commemoration, travelers will now find that the Angel of Independence has become a common meeting place for locals and the gathering spot for protests and celebrations—particularly after the Mexican national soccer team wins a match. The base of the monument also serves as a mausoleum and final resting place for a number of Mexican war heroes.
Practical Info
The monument is located in the roundabout near Padeo de la Reforma in downtown Mexico City. Entrance is free and small groups of 12 visitors can climb the more than 200 stairs to the top. Travelers who are unfit will find the steep12-story climb a challenge and those who fear tight spaces may want to avoid the narrow stairwell altogether.
Address: Paseo de la Reforma y Eje 2 PTE, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City, Mexico
From $ 32
La Condesa
The charming, bohemian vibe of Mexico City’s La Condesa neighborhood attracts locals and tourists alike. The stylish area boasts a thriving food scene, as well as plenty of bars and clubs. Its wide, tree-lined avenues are dotted with modern cafés, galleries, and boutiques mixed with fixtures of its past, including art nouveau mansions and art deco apartment buildings.
The Basics
Located in the Cuauhtémoc borough of central Mexico City, La Condesa housed the artistic upper class during the early 20th century. Eventually those residents moved to newer neighborhoods, making way for younger, creative types who were seeking cheaper rent. Today Condesa, which draws comparisons to hipster neighborhoods in Brooklyn, has become a foodie destination within Mexico City, with readily available cuisine tours of the area and nearby La Roma.
Things to Know Before You Go:
- La Condesa is a popular place to stay for many travelers visiting Mexico City.
- Tamaulipas, Nuevo León, and Michoacán Avenues are the main spots for nightlife.
- The neighborhood’s Parque Mexico was previously a racetrack and now serves as the center of the district.
- Roma and La Condesa were among the areas hit hardest during the September 2017 earthquake, and the local residents and businesses are still recovering.
How to Get There
Centrally located in Mexico City, La Condesa is easily accessible by several major transportation lines, including four nearby metro stations (Patriotismo, Chilpancingo, Chapultepec, and Juanacatlán) and the Insurgentes route on the city’s Metrobus system. There are bike-sharing stations located in the neighborhood, and it’s a 30-minute drive from the Mexico City International Airport.
When to Get There
If you’re visiting La Condesa on a day trip, keep in mind that, as in most of Mexico, many businesses and shops close between 2pm and 4pm. Traffic may be heavy and boutiques may be closed around that time. Also, Mexico City’s peak tourist season typically runs from November to May, so popular areas like La Condesa may be more crowded.
The Frida Kahlo Museum
Art lovers won’t want to miss the Frida Kahlo Museum, located about 6 miles (10 kilometers) south of Roma and La Condesa in Coyoacán. Also known as the Blue House (La Casa Azul) because of its can’t-miss cobalt blue walls, the historic home—which was Kahlo’s birthplace—now serves as a museum filled with works from the famous Mexican artist and her husband Diego Rivera, along with the couple’s Mexican folk art, photographs, memorabilia, personal effects, and other items.
Address: Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad Mexico, FD 06140, Mexico
From $ 65
Mexico City Alameda Central
Originally a public green space in 1592, Mexico City’s Alameda Central features fountains, statues, and lush landscaping. The urban park is a popular spot for locals and visitors to relax, people watch, and explore historic, cultural, and artistic sights like Diego Rivera's famous mural, Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Park.
The Basics
In 1592, Viceroy Luis de Velasco planted dozens of poplar trees, creating the park and earning Alameda Central its name, which comes from the Spanish word álamo or poplar tree. Since then, the country’s leaders have put their mark on the green space, including President Porfirio Diaz, who commissioned the Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes) be built near the park.
In addition to wandering the area by foot, visitors can explore via bike and Segway tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Alameda Central offers free Wi-Fi.
- Food vendors aren’t allowed in the park, so be sure to bring snacks if you plan to stay.
- The area is considered safe for visitors.
How to Get There
As is the case with most of Mexico City, pricy parking lots are located close to the Alameda Central, but it’s better to forgo the car or cab and take the metro to this congested neighborhood. Metro Bellas Artes, accessed by Lines 2 and 8, opens up right onto the park, while Metro Hidalgo, via Lines 2 and 3, is right across the street.
When to Get There
Alameda Central is a popular spot, especially on weekends and on weekdays between 4 and 7pm when locals leave work. As for time of year, visit during the spring (late March and April) to see the jacaranda trees in bloom with large, vibrant purple flowers; they are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Mexico.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
Located at the end of Alameda Central, the Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes) is Mexico City’s major cultural center and hosts art exhibitions, along with a range of live events, including music, dance, theater, and opera. It also houses a permanent art collection with statues and murals by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Rufino Tamayo, and José Clemente Orozco.
Address: Avenida Hidalgo, Mexico City, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 36
Arena Mexico
Came to Mexico City in search of some adventure? Look no further than Arena Mexico. This hard-hitting lucha libre (Mexican Wrestler) playground is known to wage epic battles of good versus evil in full luchador splendor.
Built in 1968 to hold 16,500 spectators, this was once the largest stadium ever built for professional wrestling – proving what a following the sport has in Mexico City, which is a little different from its American counterpart. In Mexico, the lucha libre match is a fight not just of contestants, but of good vs. evil, and the crowd (of all ages) gets behind the event to cheer for their favorite wrestler in whatever his particular plight might be. Beer is served, the rules are announced (though loosely adhered to), and then all bets are off, so to speak. Truly an event unique to Mexico, if you’re the type of traveler who wants to do how the Romans do, you must attend an event at Arena Mexico and see the tight-masked wrestlers do their thing.
Practical Info
Arena Mexico is located in the Colonia Doctores district of Mexico City at 189 Calle Drive. Ticket prices vary per event.
Address: 189 Calle Drive, Mexico City, Mexico
From $ 35
Plaza Garibaldi
The streets of Mexico City come alive with music, performance and mariachi at Plaza Garibaldi. This historic square is the destination for live local music in the capital city. Visitors can cozy up to the bar at one of the numerous tequila joints that line the streets of Plaza Garibaldi, or settle in to an outdoor table and enjoy the hustle of urban life while mariachi bands weave between patrons while playing traditional tunes. The nearby Museum of Tequila and Mezcal, just behind the Agave Garden, is a perfect stop to learn more about Mexico’s most famous spirit and solo musicians frequently perform in the upstairs bar and tasting room.
While some argue the plaza’s high prices and petty crime make it a true tourist trap, good drink deals are easy to find and increased security has improved the look, feel and safety of this popular destination.
While some argue the plaza’s high prices and petty crime make it a true tourist trap, good drink deals are easy to find and increased security has improved the look, feel and safety of this popular destination.
Practical Info
Plaza Garibaldi is located between Calle Republica de Honduras and Calle Republica de Peru on Eje Central, just north of the Palacio de Bellas Artes. The Plaza comes alive at night, but this is also the time when pickpockets come out. Be mindful of belongings and surroundings to avoid theft.
Address: Plaza Garibaldi, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City, FD, Mexico
From $ 44
Cuernavaca
Nicknamed the ‘City of the Eternal Spring’ thanks to its year-round warm weather and idyllic surroundings, Cuernavaca has long been a popular retreat for capital dwellers, home to some of Mexico’s best spas and famous for its lively Spring Fair and carnival celebrations.
The state capital of Morelos makes an easy day trip from Mexico City and the main highlights of Cuernavaca can be discovered on foot. Start by exploring the central squares of Zócalo and Jardín Juárez, dotted with colorful market stalls, restaurants and cafes, and flanked by landmarks like the Palacio de Gobierno, the Palacio Cortés and the Cathedral, then wander around the tranquil Jardin de Borda or admire the many jeweler’s shops, filled with gems found in the nearby Tepozteco Mountains. The countryside around the city is also renowned for hiking, cycling and rafting, and attractions like the magnificent Casa Maximiliano, which dates back to 1866, and the San Anton waterfall make worthwhile detours.
Practical Info
Cuernavaca is located around 100 km south of Mexico City.
Address: Cuernavaca, MOR, Mexico
From $ 55
Chapultepec Park
Overview
Chapultepec Park, named for the Aztec word chapoltepec (at the grasshopper’s hill), is one of the world's largest city parks. The green space spans 1,695 acres (686 hectares) and is dissected by walking paths connecting quiet ponds, monumental buildings, and museums, including the Museum of Anthropology and the Rufino Tamayo Museum.
The Basics
Located in the center of Mexico City, Chapultepec Park (Bosque de Chapultepec) is found 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the zócalo, or central plaza, along the border of the popular upscale neighborhoods of Reforma and Polanco. Considered one of the world’s oldest urban parks, it’s believed to have been set aside as green space in the 1300s, but wasn't officially protected until 1428 by King Nezahualcoyotl.
In addition to exploring the grounds by bike, Segway, or on foot, many tours also provide the option to visit main attractions, such as Chapultepec Castle, which is home to the National History Museum (Museo Nacional de Historia) and the National Museum of Anthropology (Museo Nacional de Antropología).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Chapultepec Park is divided into three sections (Primera, Segunda, and Tercera Seccions); most of the popular attractions are located in the first section.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, if you plan to explore the park all day, since it’s double the size of New York's Central Park.
- The green space features a zoo and small amusement park called La Feria Chapultepec Mágico, making it a must-see destination for families with young children.
How to Get There
Within walking distance to many Mexico City hotels, Chapultepec Park is easily accessible via public transportation. Take Line 1 to Chapultepec Station, which drops you off right at the park. The Turibus’ main line (Chapultepec–Centro Historico) also travels through the park.
When to Get There
Chapultepec Park draws both locals and tourists throughout the week (admission is free). It’s especially busy on weekends (particularly Sundays) and holidays. The first section is open during daylight hours, while the second and third sections are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
National History Museum
Found inside Chapultepec Castle, which is famous for being the only castle in North America to have housed royalty, the National History Museum features a permanent collection that includes paintings, documents, artifacts, and clothing from different periods in Mexican history. It also serves as a venue for concerts and theater productions. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9am to 5pm.
Address: Paseo de la Reforma, Mexico City, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 12
Ex-Convento del Carmen
Ex-Convento del Carmen is a former monastery that now houses a museum. It was built in the 17th century and features a simple colonial church style of architecture that has a serene quality when walking through it with a peaceful courtyard.
The museum at Ex-Convento del Carmen is home to a variety of religious artwork, most notably paintings from the 16th century through the 18th century. Another interesting – and possibly eerie depending on your outlook – aspect of a visit to Ex-Convento del Carmen is found in the crypt. Down there, you’ll encounter a collection of remarkably well-preserved mummies. These 12 mummified human corpses are a highlight of most people’s visit to Ex-Convento del Carmen so be sure to travel downstairs to the crypt to find them before departing. The mummies also make Ex-Convento del Carmen a more kid-friendly site to visit as children will be enthralled by the real-life mummies.
Practical Info
Ex-Convento del Carmen is located in the San Angel neighborhood of Mexico City at Avenida Revolución 4. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and you are allowed to walk through at your own leisure.
Address: Avenida Revolución 4, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: Open Tuesday - Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
From $ 53
La Merced Market
For a genuine glimpse of everyday life in most cities, head to the local food market. While Mexico City is packed with such spots, it’s La Merced Market that offers the most bang for your buck. With a maze of street food stalls selling goods from local produce to pinatas, this traditional spot is the city’s largest market and a major tourist draw.
The Basics
Located on the eastern edge of the city’s main plaza, La Merced spans more than four city blocks and includes a daunting labyrinth of passageways that can be hard to navigate, even for experienced Spanish-speaking travelers—with this, booking a walking food tour through the market with a guide can be beneficial. In addition, if you’re searching for the best mole, tacos, or guajillos chiles, for example, a tour guide will be able to steer you in the right direction. Plus, you’ll be able to learn about the history of the market, which was established in colonial times.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear closed-toe shoes and keep jewelry to a minimum since it’s a crowded space.
- La Merced Market is open daily, from 5am to 7pm, and is free to enter; it is closed on some holidays, such as Good Friday.
- Many walking tours include food samples and offer information on Mexico’s culinary culture.
How to Get There:
Located east of Mexico City’s historic center, just north of Sonora Market and the Fray Servando Teresa de Mier, the market and its surrounding neighborhood serve as the city’s commercial hub. La Merced is roughly a 15-minute drive from the airport and is easily accessible and within walking distance from downtown hotels. There is also a subway stop and a bus stop at the market.
When to Get There
La Merced Market is open daily, from 5am to 7pm. Like most food markets, the best time to visit is midweek during the mornings to avoid the crowds and score the freshest produce, meats, and other goods. Market vendors observe national and religious holidays, such as Good Friday, so be mindful of that before making plans to visit.
What to Eat at La Merced Market
The market is divided into different sections based on the types of food being sold, such as meats, fruits and vegetables, and even insects. For adventurous foodies, specialty vendors offer up crispy, fried insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, and ants and their larvae. Other traditional Mexican food to try includes caldo de gallina (hen stew), pancita (another kind of stew made from cow's stomach), pork posole, and plenty of fresh tacos.
Address: Calle Rosario S/N, Venustiano Carranza, Merced Balbuena, Ciudad de México, D.F., Mexico 15810, Mexico
From $ 69
Chapultepec Castle
North America may not be known for its regal royalty or holding court, but Chapultepec Castle in Mexico City—the only palace on the continent—is definitely the real deal. Located more than 7,000 feet above sea level, Chapultepec has housed sovereigns, served as a military academy and was even an observatory. In 1996 the castle was transformed into Capulet Mansion for the movie Romeo and Juliet, too.
Until 1939, Chapultepec Castle served as the presidential residence. Then a new law moved it elsewhere and the castle became home to both the National Museum of History and the National Museum of Cultures instead. A stroll through these halls, followed by a tour of lush castle grounds is a perfect way to spend a Mexico City afternoon.
Until 1939, Chapultepec Castle served as the presidential residence. Then a new law moved it elsewhere and the castle became home to both the National Museum of History and the National Museum of Cultures instead. A stroll through these halls, followed by a tour of lush castle grounds is a perfect way to spend a Mexico City afternoon.
Practical Info
The castle is located on Calz del Rio in Chapultepec Park off Paseo de la Reforma Road and is accessible via the metro at Auditorio and Chapultepec stations. A visit costs less on Sundays, but cheaper entry means bigger crowds. Avoid the crush by visiting during the week, and pack a camera since views from the hilltop are some of the best in the city.
Address: Chapultepec, Miguel Hidalgo, Ciudad de México, Distrito Federal 11580, Mexico
Hours: Tue-Sun 9am-5pm
From $ 13
Polanco
Overview
Just north of Mexico City’s Chapultepec Park (Bosque de Chapultepec), the upscale district of Polanco is home to some of the country’s wealthiest families. In addition to high-end real estate, the city’s most luxurious hotels and priciest restaurants line the streets of the district’s five neighborhoods. At the center of it all is the welcoming green space of Parque Lincoln.
The Basics
Polanco is known primarily for its new residential and business developments, as well as its luxe shopping spots and fine-dining restaurants. The district also houses several cultural attractions. The Soumaya Museum (Museo Soumaya) features Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim’s collection of art, with works by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí, Van Gogh, and others, and the outdoor Angela Peralta Theater hosts music performances and theater productions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Avenida Presidente Masaryk, Polanco’s version of Rodeo Drive, is a must-see for shoppers.
- Foodies should consider a food tour in Polanco, home to some of Mexico City’s best restaurants.
- Valet parking, enforced dress codes, and reservations are common at many of the district’s restaurants.
How to Get There
Polanco is about a 50-minute drive from Mexico City International Airport and a 35-minute ride from the historical center. The closest metro stations are Auditorio (on the edge of Chapultepec Park) and Polanco.
When to Get There
Many businesses and shops close between 2pm and 4pm, and traffic can be heavy around that time. Mexico City’s peak tourist season typically runs from November to May, so it may be more difficult to get a table at Polanco’s popular restaurants then.
The National Museum of Anthropology
Located on the southern edge of the Polanco district, along Paseo de la Reforma, the National Museum of Anthropology (Museo Nacional de Antropología) houses the largest collection of ancient Mexican art in the world. On display at Mexico City’s most-visited museum are such notable historical items as the Aztec Stone of the Sun, the giant carved heads of the Olmec people, and the Aztec Xochipilli statue.
Address: Polanco, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City, FD 11550, Mexico
From $ 75
Azteca Stadium
Soccer—or fútbol as it’s called in Spanish—is an integral part of Mexican culture. For the country’s people, Azteca Stadium (Estadio Azteca), which is the largest stadium in Mexico, is the heart of the sport. Home to the professional soccer team Club América and the Mexican national team, the 84,000-seat stadium is the first venue to host two FIFA World Cup finals, and it will welcome a third in 2026.
The Basics
Its name a tribute to Mexico City’s Aztec heritage, Azteca Stadium (Estadio Azteca) opened its doors in 1966 and continues to draw throngs of fans every year. In addition to the World Cups in 1970 and 1986, the stadium hosted the 1986 quarter-final match between Argentina and England, where both the memorable “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century” were scored.
Besides scoring tickets to a match, die-hard soccer fans can get their fix with a behind-the-scenes tour of the venue, which usually includes a look at the inner workings, such as a visit to the locker rooms, press room, and bench area, plus a walk onto the legendary field.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The stadium is a popular attraction, so tours may sell out; book early to avoid missing it.
- There are no tours on match days or the day before a home match.
- Match tickets can be purchased at the gates on game day or online ahead of time.
How to Get There
In the Santa Ursula neighborhood of Mexico City and about nine miles (15 kilometers) from the historic center, the stadium is accessible via the Azteca station on the Xochimilco Light Rail line, which connects to the city’s metro system at the Tasqueña station. (The light rail and metro require two different tickets.) It’s also about a 30- to 40-minute car ride from the Mexico City International Airport.
When to Get There
The Mexican football league system (Club América is part of the Liga MX division) divides its season into two: Apertura (opening season) and Clausura (closing season), each with its own tournament and champion. If you want to catch a match, visit Azteca Stadium from July to December (Apertura) and from January to May (Clausura).
Tips for Attending a Match at Azteca Stadium
Like with most sporting events, you’ll have to contend with traffic, security, and unruly football fans on match day. Some things to keep in mind
- Be sure to head to the stadium early, especially if you still need to purchase tickets.
- Don’t wear a belt because it will most likely be confiscated by security (although there are vendors who will babysit it during the match for a fee).
- Carry some extra pesos in your pocket to give to the bathroom attendants in exchange for toilet paper.
Address: Calz de Tlalpan 3465, Santa Ursula Coapa, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, D.F. Mexico 04650, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Puebla
The United States isn’t the only country with a “city of angels” (i.e. Los Angeles). Mexico is also home to a city that has that moniker: Puebla, officially called Puebla de los Angeles. Puebla is one of Mexico’s oldest cities and legend has it that its angelic name was first earned thanks to the bell tower on Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral since an 18,000-pound bell that no one could figure out how to get up to the tower mysteriously appeared there one morning; angels were subsequently credited for the bell being moved. It is also said that angels designed the layout of the city.
In addition to the cathedral and its famous bell tower, Puebla is also home to a variety of Baroque and Spanish Colonial style buildings and architecture that has caused it to be designated as a World Heritage City. Food is also a huge draw of Puebla. It’s called the capital of mole for a reason, and a visit to Puebla must include a bite (or several) of this beloved Mexican cuisine. Puebla is also known for its chalupas and chiles en nogada.
Practical Info
Puebla is the capital city of the Mexican state of the same name, Puebla. It is located less than 90 miles from Mexico City, making for an easy day trip from there.
Address: Puebla, Mexico
From $ 70
Coyoacan
Villa Coyoacan is 29 blocks of one of Mexico City’s most charming districts. Also one of the area’s oldest districts, the area is filled with cobblestone streets, counterculture museums, and small park plazas that date back to Spanish colonial times and have an absolutely charming feel. Independently ranked as one of the best urban places to live, Coyoacan is where Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and Leon Trotsky all chose to reside, and museums dedicated to them now fill their old houses. Tranquil on the weekdays, filled with culture and music come the weekend, Coyoacan is more than simply a nice neighborhood – it’s a hotbed of culture and a must-see if in Mexico City.
Address: Mexico City, Mexico
From $ 39
Mixquic
For three days a year this quiet mountain village just south of Mexico City becomes the ultimate cultural destination. Between October 31 and November 2 residents gather to commemorate the Day of the Dead, a celebration of loved ones who are no longer living. Travelers make the voyage from Mexico City to the rolling hills of an otherwise quiet countryside to experience this truly unique festival.
Graves are decorated with flowers and skeletons and fragrant incense wafts through the air as residents sing songs honoring those who have passed. Colorful murals cover typically empty walls and stalls selling strong drinks, spicy food and tokens for the dead line the bustling streets. Halls of the local church come alive with traditional artwork and intricate masks to commemorate those who are no longer living. While the journey from Mexico City can be long due to traffic, experiencing this once-a-year festival is well worth the trip.
Graves are decorated with flowers and skeletons and fragrant incense wafts through the air as residents sing songs honoring those who have passed. Colorful murals cover typically empty walls and stalls selling strong drinks, spicy food and tokens for the dead line the bustling streets. Halls of the local church come alive with traditional artwork and intricate masks to commemorate those who are no longer living. While the journey from Mexico City can be long due to traffic, experiencing this once-a-year festival is well worth the trip.
Practical Info
It’s possible to hire a round-trip taxi from Mexico City for about 1500 pesos. Although Mixquic comes alive for Day of the Dead celebrations, it isn’t much of a destination the rest of the year.
Address: San Andres Mixquic, Tláhuac, Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico
From $ 52
Frida Kahlo Museum (Museo Frida Kahlo)
Known as the Blue House (La Casa Azul) for its bold blue façade, the Frida Kahlo Museum (Museo Frida Kahlo) was the birthplace and childhood home of the well-known Mexican artist. Inside, the fascinating collection of personal items, furnishings, sketches, and paintings offer insight into both the life and art of Frida Kahlo.
The Basics
The Frida Kahlo Museum is one of Mexico City’s most visited attractions and prebooking your admission tickets can potentially save hours of waiting in line, especially during peak times (weekends and holidays). Visitors can explore independently or on a guided tour, visit as part of a Mexico City tour, or combine a visit with other top attractions, such as the Xochimilco canals or the National University of Mexico.
After exploring the Casa Azul, it’s just a short walk to the former home of Kahlo's husband, artist Diego Rivera, now the Diego Rivera Mural Museum (Museo Diego Rivera), or that of her lover, communist revolutionary Leon Trotsky, now the Leon Trotsky House Museum (Museo Casa de Leon Trotsky).
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is closed on Mondays and opens late on Wednesdays.
- Visitors are required to pass security checks to enter the museum, and large bags, suitcases, and sharp objects are prohibited.
- To protect the artworks, video and flash photography is prohibited inside the museum, although special permits are available.
How to Get There
The Frida Kahlo Museum is located in the Coyoacán neighborhood of Mexico City and is a short walk from Plaza Coyoacán. The closest metro stations are General Anaya (Line 2), Coyoacán (Line 3), and Metro Viveros (Line 3).
When to Get There
The museum is open year-round, but it can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak season (July and August). Admission tickets are cheaper on weekdays, and it’s generally the quietest time to visit, especially if you make an early start.
Highlights of the Frida Kahlo Museum
Casa Azul, with the rooms and gardens still in much the same state as Kahlo left them, offers insight into many facets of her life. Admire her Mexican folk art collection, see the bedroom where Leon Trotsky stayed during his exile in Mexico, and view some of her lesser-known artworks and rare self-portraits. A large collection of personal items, including the prosthetic leg she wore in the months before her death, is also on display.
Address: Londres 247 Del Carmen, Coyoacán, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: Tues: 10am - 5:45pm. Wednesday: 11am -5:45pm. Friday - Sunday: 10am - 5:45pm.
Admission: 200 pesos
From $ 26
Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes)
Overview
As Mexico City’s major cultural center, the Palace of Fine Arts hosts art exhibitions and a range of live events, including music, dance, theater, and opera. The building is a mix of art nouveau, art deco, and baroque architectural styles referred to as Porfiriano, after Mexican President Porfirio Diaz who commissioned the project.
The Basics
Located on the western side of the city’s historical center, next to Alameda Central park, the Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes) is surrounded by manicured gardens that offer contrast to the opulent columns and domes of the impressive structure. In addition to hosting live performances, it also houses a permanent art collection with statues and murals by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Rufino Tamayo, and José Clemente Orozco.
One of the highlights is Rivera's Man at the Crossroads mural, which was originally commissioned for New York's Rockefeller Center but was destroyed and painted over by the Rockefellers because of its anti-capitalist imagery. Rivera recreated the work for the palace in 1934. Many tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the venue, including its theater curtain that’s made of almost a million pieces of colored glass from Tiffany's.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Umbrellas, bags, backpacks, and large packages are not allowed.
- The museum is equipped with elevators, and standard and electric ramps for those with disabilities.
- Entry to the building is free, but you must pay a fee to be admitted to the museum.
How to Get There
The Palace of Fine Arts doesn’t offer a parking lot, but there are private parking lots located nearby. Since the museum is situated by the historical center, it is easily accessible by the Metro Lines 2 and 8; hop off at the convenient Bellas Artes stop, which is right next to the palace.
When to Get There
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm, with Sundays attracting a bigger crowd. In addition to the museum, you can also attend a performance at the theater, including regular shows by Mexico City's Ballet Folklórico de México. Tickets to the performances are typically available on the day.
National Palace (Palacio Nacional)
Diego Rivera fans will also want to visit the National Palace to take in the artist’s The History of Mexico mural, painted between 1929 and 1951, which depicts Mexico's history from ancient times to the present.
Address: Paseo de la Reforma y Campo Marte S/N, Mexico City, Central Mexico, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 6
Centro Historico
Built on the site of the ancient Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán, the Centro Histórico is both the historical heart and the modern epicenter of Mexico City. Centered on the grand Zócalo—Plaza de la Constitución—the sprawling district is preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of historic monuments, museums, parks, and hotels.
The Basics
There are numerous ways to discover the sights of Mexico City. Stroll around the Zócalo and along Paseo de la Reforma on a walking tour; zip around the city on a Segway or bike tour; admire the illuminated streets on a night tour; or tuck into tacos on a food tour. Notable landmarks include the magnificent Metropolitan Cathedral, the Palacio de las Bellas Artes, the skyscraper Torre Latinoamericana, and Tenochtitlán’s Templo Mayor.
Things to Know Before You Go
- As in most major cities, pickpockets are common around the main tourist areas, so keep an eye on your belongings and only carry the essentials.
- Most museums in the Centro Histórico are closed on Mondays.
- Many Centro Histórico attractions are wheelchair accessible, but some of the neighborhood’s narrow, uneven lanes are difficult for wheelchairs to navigate.
How to Get There
It’s easy to reach most of the attractions in the Centro Histórico on foot from the Zócalo, but the area is also well served by public transport. The main metro station is Zócalo (Line 2), and numerous buses also pass by the square.
When to Get There
The most popular time to explore Mexico City is between March and May, when the warm, dry weather is ideal for sightseeing. The Zócalo is the center of many of the city’s festivals and events, including the annual Independence Day celebrations (September 16), the Alebrije Parade (late October), and the Day of the Dead parade (November 1–2).
Mexico City’s Aztec History
Founded in 1325 as an Aztec capital, ancient Tenochtitlán was built on an island on Lake Texcoco in the Valley of Mexico, and the enormous Zócalo was its spiritual, political, and ceremonial center. According to Aztec legend, a vision instructed the wandering Aztec tribe to build a city on the spot where an eagle, perched on a cactus, was devouring a serpent—an image that now adorns the Mexican flag. When the Spanish conquered the city in the 16th century, they drained the lake and destroyed many Aztec palaces and temples, rebuilding their new city around the Zócalo.
Address: Plaza de la Constitución, Mexico City, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 15
La Feria de Chapultepec
As one of the most popular amusement parks in all of Mexico, La Feria de Chapultepec is a top spot for families with more than 50 rides and activities. Attractions range from roller coasters and flat rides to zoo animal exhibits and carnival games. Most are organized either for children, families, teens, or extreme adventurers and are designated as such.
The park dates back to 1964 when it debuted some of the tallest and faster roller coasters at that time. It has since been renovated, but keeps much of its original charm and nostalgia. The most classic roller coaster is La Montana Rusa, which held the world record for tallest roller coaster when it was built. There are also many slower rides and rides suited for ages 10 and under, such as the monorail, train, and bumper cars.
Practical Info
The park is located in the middle of Chapultepec Park near the Constituyentes Metro station. Admission costs are based on the amount of activities you’d like to take part in. The park is open daily from 10am-8pm.
Address: Circuito Bosque de Chapultepec, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: 10am-8pm
Admission: $100-200 MXN
From $ 12