Exploring the Barrios of Mexico City

Centro Histórico is home to some of the most iconic landmarks, such as the Zócalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Palace. This area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s cultural roots.

The streets are teeming with shops, eateries, and vibrant markets. The area offers a variety of options, from luxury hotels near the main square to more affordable hostels and boutique stays tucked into its lively streets.

Explore the Centro Histórico on foot to take in the grand colonial architecture.

Visit the Templo Mayor ruins and wander through Alameda Central Park. It’s an easy walk to nearby attractions like Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Torre Latinoamericana, which offers panoramic views of the city.

Known for its artistic vibe and bohemian charm, Roma is a trendy neighborhood with tree-lined streets, art galleries, and a mix of historic and modern buildings. It’s perfect for those seeking a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.

Roma offers a range of options for accommodation, from stylish boutique hotels to comfortable guesthouses and vacation rentals. The neighborhood is very walkable and has many cafés and bars to enjoy in between your stay.

Roma is one of the most walkable barrios in Mexico City. Take a stroll down its wide streets, visit art galleries, and relax in Parque Roma or Parque México. The restaurants and cafés are ideal spots to enjoy the lively ambiance.

Just like Roma, Condesa is a bustling and stylish neighborhood but with an added emphasis on green spaces and art deco architecture. It’s popular with locals and tourists alike, especially for its vibrant nightlife and café culture.

Accommodation: Condesa is filled with boutique hotels and vacation rentals. Whether you’re looking for a modern stay or a charming place with historic appeal, Condesa offers plenty of safe and comfortable options.

The neighborhood is also great for enjoying the tree-lined avenues and vibrant cafés. Condesa is an excellent place to wander and soak up the local culture, with plenty of options for food and drink as you go.

Polanco is one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Mexico City, home to luxury shopping centers, fine dining, and cultural attractions like the Museo Soumaya and the National Museum of Anthropology.

Accommodation: This neighborhood is known for its upscale hotels and high-end accommodation options. Whether you’re staying at a five-star hotel or a luxury apartment, Polanco offers the best of the city’s hospitality.

Polanco is more spread out than other barrios; it’s a great place to explore on foot, especially along Avenida Presidente Masaryk, one of the most prestigious streets in the city. Don’t miss a walk through Lincoln Park and its surrounding green spaces.

Coyoacán is a charming, historic neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and artistic heritage. It’s also the home of the Frida Kahlo Museum, making it a must-see for art lovers.

Coyoacán offers a mix of small boutique hotels and cozy guesthouses. This neighborhood is a quiet, family-friendly area, making it a great option for a peaceful stay.

This neighborhood is perfect for walking, especially around its lively central plaza.

Explore the cobbled streets, visit the local markets, and wander through its many plazas, including the beautiful Jardín Centenario. Coyoacán’s historical charm and vibrant culture make it a delightful place to explore on foot.

Xochimilco is famous for its ancient canals, vibrant floating gardens, and colorful boats (trajineras), offering a unique experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Accommodation: Xochimilco offers more rustic and affordable accommodations, often in the form of guesthouses or charming bed-and-breakfasts. It’s not as luxurious as other barrios, but it offers an immersive cultural experience.

Walking: While the best way to experience Xochimilco is by boat, there are also several scenic walks around the canals and gardens. The area is steeped in history, and walking here will give you a glimpse into the ancient traditions of the region.

With its cobblestone streets and colonial-era buildings, San Ángel is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Mexico City. The area is home to art galleries, boutiques, and quaint cafés.

Accommodation: San Ángel offers several boutique hotels and small guesthouses. The neighborhood’s laid-back vibe makes it a great place to stay if you’re looking for a quieter, more traditional experience in Mexico City.

San Ángel is a fantastic place to wander, especially on weekends when the Bazar Sábado art market comes to life. Stroll through the peaceful streets and stop by the beautiful Plaza San Jacinto. The neighborhood’s old-world charm is best experienced on foot.

La Roma Norte and Roma Sur are two distinct areas that form the broader Roma neighborhood. La Roma Norte is known for its hip vibe with a mix of trendy cafés, art spaces, and boutique hotels.

Roma Sur, on the other hand, is slightly more residential but still offers a good mix of local restaurants, bars, and cultural spots. Both areas are great for those seeking a lively neighborhood with easy access to other parts of the city.

Accommodation: From chic boutique hotels in La Roma Norte to more budget-friendly options in Roma Sur, you can find a range of choices in these neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking for a modern stay or something more charming, Roma offers various options.

Walking: These areas are very walkable, with wide streets, historic architecture, and plenty of cafés and restaurants. Don’t miss the local markets and parks like Parque México, which is a great place for a stroll.

Santa Fe is a modern district known for its skyscrapers, international businesses, and luxurious accommodations. It’s a bit farther from the city center, but it is a great option for business travelers or those seeking a more contemporary experience.

Accommodation: Santa Fe boasts luxury hotels, high-end apartment rentals, and several international hotel chains. It’s a great choice for those looking for upscale accommodation in a more modern setting.

Walking: Although Santa Fe is less walkable compared to other neighborhoods, it offers interesting urban landscapes. The area has wide boulevards, shopping malls, and parks, including the picturesque Parque La Mexicana, which is perfect for a walk.

Tlatelolco is a historic neighborhood, famous for its archaeological site, the Plaza de las Tres Culturas, where pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern Mexican history converge. This area holds cultural significance.

There are some affordable hotels and hostels in the area. The neighborhood is a blend of history and modernity, with ancient ruins like the Templo Mayor to explore, as well as modernist buildings and peaceful squares.

La Merced is a bustling commercial neighborhood known for its huge market, one of the largest and most famous in Mexico City. The market is a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells, where locals come to buy fresh produce, meat, spices, and street food.

Accommodation: The area is home to more affordable accommodations, typically in the form of guesthouses or budget hotels. However, staying here means you’ll be close to the heart of Mexico City’s commerce and street life.

Walking: It’s best to explore La Merced with a guide, as the area can be overwhelming. The market is the main attraction, but the surrounding streets also offer an authentic glimpse into daily life in Mexico City.

Iztapalapa is one of Mexico City’s largest and most diverse boroughs, known for its vibrant festivals, particularly the famous Semana Santa (Holy Week) reenactment. It also offers historical sites, such as the Cerro de la Estrella, an ancient pre-Hispanic ceremonial site.

Accommodation: Iztapalapa offers budget-friendly options, including guesthouses and small hotels. The area is a more authentic, working-class part of the city with fewer tourists.

Walking: Iztapalapa is a large area, so it’s best explored in parts. Visiting the Cerro de la Estrella is a must for panoramic views, and the area comes alive during the Semana Santa celebrations.

Nápoles is a middle-class residential neighborhood with a mix of modern and traditional elements. It’s home to the World Trade Center Mexico City, making it a hub for business travelers. The neighborhood is quiet, with tree-lined streets and local eateries.

Nápoles has several mid-range hotels, making it a solid choice for business travelers or families looking for a more peaceful stay. The area is well-maintained and offers pleasant walks, particularly around the World Trade Center and nearby parks.

The neighborhood is also known for its local food scene.

Lomas de Chapultepec is one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Mexico City, known for its luxurious mansions, tree-lined streets, and proximity to Chapultepec Park. It’s an upscale area with a quieter, more residential feel compared to other parts of the city.

Lomas de Chapultepec offers high-end hotels and exclusive residences.

Staying here offers a more tranquil experience with easy access to the park and cultural attractions. The area is perfect for a leisurely walk, with plenty of green spaces like Chapultepec Park and upscale shops, restaurants, and cafés to explore.

Tlalpan is a large and diverse neighborhood that blends urban and rural elements. It’s home to both suburban areas and natural reserves like the Ajusco National Park, making it ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

There is a range of accommodations, from budget hotels to boutique stays. Tlalpan offers a variety of walking opportunities, from scenic nature hikes to exploring the colonial town center with its charming churches and plazas.