Things to Do in Mexico City
A hub for art (don’t miss Palacio de Bellas Artes), history, and really good food. By day, tour the canals and pyramids. By night, catch a lucha libre match. For personalized recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
Historic Centre of Mexico City
Built in the 16th century by the Spanish on the ruins of Tenochtitlan, the old Aztec capital, Mexico City is now one of the world’s largest and most densely populated cities. It has five Aztec temples, the ruins of which have been identified, a cathedral (the largest on the continent) and some fine 19th- and 20th-century public buildings such as the Palacio de las Bellas Artes.
Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan
The holy city of Teotihuacan (‘the place where the gods were created’) is situated some 50 km north-east of Mexico City. Built between the 1st and 7th centuries A.D., it is characterized by the vast size of its monuments – in particular, the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, laid out on geometric and symbolic principles. As one of the most powerful cultural centres in Mesoamerica, Teotihuacan extended its cultural and artistic influence throughout the region, and even beyond.
- Zona Arqueologica Teotihuacan
- Hot Air Balloon Teotihuacan
Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe).
The New Basilica of Guadalupe is thus called to distinguish it from the older and still very much loved Old Basilica Building, now called the Expiatory Temple of Christ the King. To the west of the Atrium of the Americas, it’s an un-mistakable symbol of the overall Basilica complex, and to the faith of followers.
The building was necessary after years of earthquakes and subsidence put the old building in danger of structural failure. The old building was also simply unfit for the ever-increasing number of pilgrims.
- Virgin of Guadalupe´s Village
Xochimilco.
With its network of canals and artificial islands, the famous canals of Xochimilco, the last remains of the extensive transportation system created by the Aztecs, are located in the south of Mexico City, next to a struggling working-class neighborhood. Colorful gondolas take visitors on rides alongside boats of food vendors, artisans and mariachis. The atmosphere is festive, especially on weekends.
- Xochimilco, Coyoacán & Frida Kahlo Museum
- Trajineras Xochimilco