Mexico City

Spring, from March to May, is considered the warmest season with average daytime highs around 26°C, though evenings can feel cooler. This is a sunny period before the rains begin, making it a popular season for outdoor festivals, city walks, and cultural events.

Summer, from June to August, brings the rainy season with frequent afternoon showers and storms. Average temperatures range between 22°C and 24°C. Despite the rain, mornings are often clear, and the rainfall helps refresh the air and cool the wide valley basin.

Autumn, from September to November, offers pleasant weather with fewer rains compared to summer. Temperatures average 20°C to 23°C during the day, and evenings grow cooler. The clear skies make this an excellent time for exploring plazas, markets, and museums.

Winter, from December to February, is the coolest period in Mexico City, though still mild compared to northern climates. Average daytime highs remain near 20°C, while nights can drop to around 7°C. Frost is rare, and most days are sunny, crisp, and comfortable.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Mexico City is during the dry months, from November through April. These months bring clear skies and comfortable weather, perfect for sightseeing. Travelers avoid heavy summer rains and can enjoy festivals, parks, and outdoor activities.

The name “Mexico” comes from the Nahuatl word Mēxihco, named after the Mexica, the people more widely known today as the Aztecs. This term became associated with their realm, the Aztec Empire, reflecting the culture and identity that the Spanish later recognized.

Linguists suggest that Mēxihco combines references to the Mexica people, the sun, and the war god Huitzilopochtli. The word carried sacred meaning, linking identity, place, and divine origin. Over time, it evolved into “México” in Spanish spelling and usage.

In 1524, the city was known as México-Tenochtitlan, reflecting its origins as the heart of the Aztec civilization. It wasn’t until 1585 that it officially became Ciudad de México (Mexico City), linking its ancient roots to the emerging Spanish colonial capital.

When Mexico City became the capital of New Spain, the name spread widely and gained international use. After independence, it was officially adopted as the nation’s name, symbolizing continuity between its ancient roots and the modern country that emerged centuries later.

Tenochtitlan: the Mexica capital

In 1325, the Mexica, later known as the people commonly called Aztecs, arrived in the Valley of Mexico and founded a city following their legend: they would settle where an eagle perched on a cactus, devouring a snake. This site became the heart of their civilization.

The Mexica – let’s call them the Aztecs for clarity – built their city, Tenochtitlan, on an island on the lake. The location offered natural protection, abundant water, and fertile soil for crops, supporting a rapidly growing settlement and the early development of their society.

Tenochtitlan quickly developed into a major urban center. Canals crisscrossed the city, allowing transport and irrigation. Pyramids, temples, markets, and plazas were constructed, serving as hubs of economic, religious, and political life in the Aztec Empire.

The city’s population grew rapidly, reaching tens of thousands by the 15th century. Its urban planning was sophisticated, with causeways linking the island to the mainland. Tenochtitlan became the imperial capital, centralizing administration, trade, and culture for the Aztec state.

Spanish conquest

In 1519, Hernán Cortés arrived in the Valley of Mexico with Spanish forces. By 1521, after a brutal campaign and alliances with local enemies of the Mexica, Tenochtitlan was conquered. The fall of the city marked the end of the Aztec Empire and a dramatic shift in the region.

Following the conquest, the Spaniards demolished much of Tenochtitlan and constructed on its ruins a new city, Mexico, the capital of New Spain. They reused stones from temples and palaces, laying out streets, plazas, and churches according to colonial Spanish urban planning.

Mexico City became the administrative and political center of the colony. Large squares, government buildings, and cathedrals were built, making the city the center of Spanish power in New Spain, while indigenous culture was preserved in neighborhoods, markets, and religious life.

Mexico City in the 17th century

In the 17th century, Mexico City continued to grow as the capital of New Spain. Trade and artisan production expanded, and the city became a hub for cultural and religious activity. Baroque architecture began to define churches, palaces, and public buildings.

Population increased steadily, with neighborhoods forming around plazas, markets, and convents. Spanish authorities maintained control, while indigenous communities adapted to colonial rule, preserving traditions in language, craft, and local governance in the city’s urban fabric.

Mexico City in the 18th century

During the 18th century, Mexico City’s economy diversified, with more organized trade networks, craft guilds, and educational institutions. The city also saw artistic and cultural flourishing, as theaters, libraries, and salons became important venues for elite and public life.

Political power remained concentrated in the viceregal administration, while social hierarchies persisted. Religious orders influenced education and charity, and major public works, including aqueducts and fountains, were constructed, shaping the urban environment of Mexico City.

Mexico City in the 19th century

The 19th century was a period of turmoil and change. The Mexican War of Independence and Mexico City became the stage for uprisings, political transitions, and the eventual establishment of an independent republic, blending colonial heritage with emerging national identity.

Throughout the 1800s, the city modernized gradually. Streets were widened, public squares improved, and infrastructure developed. Mexico City remained the country’s center of governance, commerce, and culture, linking traditions to a new national framework.

Mexico City in the 20th century

In the 20th century, Mexico City expanded, absorbing surrounding towns and transforming into a metropolis. Industrialization, population growth, and migration reshaped the city, while public transport, educational institutions, and cultural centers modernized urban life.

Political and social changes, including the Mexican Revolution, reform movements, and urban planning projects, influenced city development. Mexico City emerged as a cultural, economic, and political hub, balancing historic neighborhoods with modern infrastructure.

Mexico City in the 21st century

In the 21st century, Mexico City faces challenges and opportunities as a vast megacity. The population exceeds 20 million, while urban expansion, traffic, pollution, and water management require careful planning, even as cultural life, tourism, and the economy continue to flourish.

Infrastructure projects, metro expansions, sustainable transportation, and public spaces aim to improve the quality of life. The city preserves historic neighborhoods and monuments, blending its Aztec heritage, colonial past, and contemporary Mexican culture.

Read more about the transformation of Mexico City through the centuries

Mexico City is a vast and dynamic metropolis, rich in history, culture, and diversity. To help visitors navigate its many districts, here is a guide to sixteen key neighborhoods (barrios), highlighting the most important attractions, parks, museums, and historical sites.

Álvaro Obregón (borough)

San Ángel (neighborhood):

• Plaza San Jacinto (plaza)
• Museo Casa del Risco (museum/cultural center)
• Bazar Sábado (weekend art market)
• Parroquia del Carmen (church)
• Cobblestone streets and galleries (stroll)

Chimalistac / Tizapán (neighborhoods):

• Historic streets, cafés
• Small plazas (stroll)

Santa Fe (partly in Álvaro Obregón/also Cuajimalpa):

• La Mexicana park
• Modern architecture
• Shopping malls (modern district)

Azcapotzalco (borough)

Historic center of Azcapotzalco (neighborhood):

• Parroquia de los Santos Apóstoles Felipe y Santiago (church)
• Azcapotzalco Cultural Center (ex-convent)
• Small plazas and markets

Parque Tezozómoc (park):

• Lake & walking paths
• Family recreation

Refinería / industrial heritage:

• Old industrial zones (photography interest)

Benito Juárez (borough)

Colonia del Valle (neighborhood):

• Parque Hundido (park with sculptures)
• Cafés & shopping streets

Mixcoac (neighborhood):

• Historic streets and small plazas
• Museo Casa de la Bola (museum)

Narvarte (neighborhood):

• Food scene (tacos and cantinas)
• Residential architecture

Coyoacán (borough)

Coyoacán Historic Center (neighborhood):

• Jardín Centenario and Jardín Hidalgo (main plazas)
• Parroquia San Juan Bautista (church)
• Cafés & street life

La Conchita (neighborhood):

• Capilla de la Conchita (16th c. chapel)
• Quiet historic plaza

San Ángel connection:

• Museo Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul)
• Museo León Trotsky
• Mercado de Coyoacán (local market)

Cuajimalpa (borough)

Cuajimalpa Historic Center:

• Parroquia de San Pedro Apóstol (church)
• Plaza & markets

Santa Fe (shared with Álvaro Obregón):

• La Mexicana park
• Modern architecture
• Shopping malls

Desierto de los Leones (national park):

• Former convent ruins
• Hiking trails & forest

Cuauhtémoc (borough)

Centro Histórico (neighborhood):

• Zócalo (main square)
• Metropolitan Cathedral
• Templo Mayor ruins and museum
• Palacio de Bellas Artes
• Torre Latinoamericana

Zona Rosa (neighborhood):

• Cafés, nightlife
• Ángel de la Independencia (Reforma Ave.)

Roma & Condesa (neighborhoods):

• Art Deco and eclectic architecture
• Cafés, restaurants, nightlife
• Parks: Plaza Río de Janeiro, Parque México

Gustavo A. Madero (borough)

Basilica area (neighborhood):

• Basilica de Guadalupe (pilgrimage site)
• Tepeyac Hill and chapels

Aragón Forest (park):

• Large urban park with a lake and a zoo

Neighborhoods:

• Lindavista (residential, cafés)

Iztacalco (borough)

Historic Center of Iztacalco:

• San Matías Parish Church
• Narrow colonial streets

Granjas México (neighborhood):

• Foro Sol (concert stadium)
• Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez (F1 circuit)

Iztapalapa (borough)

Cerro de la Estrella (hill & park):

• Archaeological zone
• Holy Week Passion Play tradition

Historic Iztapalapa center:

• Parish church
• Neighborhood markets

Modern areas:

• Parque Cuitláhuac (ecological park)

La Magdalena Contreras (borough)

Los Dinamos (ecological park):

• Forest, rivers, and trails
• Hiking, biking

Historic center:

• Parroquia de los Santos Apóstoles (church)
• Local plazas

Read more about the La Magdalena Contreras borough

Miguel Hidalgo (borough)

Polanco (neighborhood):

• Museo Soumaya
• Museo Jumex
• Luxury shopping on Av. Presidente Masaryk

Chapultepec (park, partly in Miguel Hidalgo):

• Chapultepec Castle
• Museums (Anthropology, Modern Art, Rufino Tamayo)
• Zoo and lakes

Lomas de Chapultepec (neighborhood):

• Embassies and upscale residential

Milpa Alta (borough)

Town centers (various):

• San Pedro Atocpan (famous for mole)
• Markets and local festivals

Rural landscapes:

• Hiking and volcanic hills

Tláhuac (borough)

Historic center of Tláhuac:

• San Pedro Apostol church
• Traditional chinampa agriculture

Lago de los Reyes Aztecas (lake):

• Boating and local food

Tlalpan (borough)

Tlalpan Historic Center (neighborhood):

• Plaza de la Constitución de Tlalpan
• Parish San Agustín
• Cafés & colonial streets

Ajusco (mountain & park):

• Hiking trails
• Pico del Águila viewpoint

Venustiano Carranza (borough)

Airport area:

• Mexico City International Airport (AICM)

Jamaica Market (near the border with Cuauhtémoc):

• Famous flower and food market

Venustiano Carranza markets:

• Sonora Market (folk and magic items)

Xochimilco (borough)

Xochimilco canals:

• Trajinera boat rides
• Chinampas (floating gardens)

Xochimilco Historic Center:

• San Bernardino de Siena church
• Plaza & local markets

Museo Dolores Olmedo (in nearby La Noria):

• Art collection (Rivera, Kahlo)
• Gardens with peacocks and xoloitzcuintles

Mexico City is enormous, and each barrio has its own character, history, and attractions. To explore the city thoroughly, including museums, plazas, parks, and cultural landmarks, visitors should plan several days, allowing time to experience the diversity of its neighborhoods.

The Metropolitan Area of Mexico City includes Mexico City plus neighboring municipalities in the State of Mexico. These surrounding cities form a continuous urban zone, offering parks, museums, and cultural sites easily accessible from the central city, perfect for short visits.

Ciudad Nezahualcóyotl (Neza):

• Parque del Pueblo (park) – ~30–40 min
• Deportivo Neza (sports complex) – ~30–40 min

Ecatepec:

• Museo de Ecatepec (museum) – ~40 min
• Plaza las Américas (shopping/plaza) – ~40 min

Naucalpan:

• La Marquesa National Park (nature/park) – ~35–45 min
• Plaza Satélite (shopping/plaza) – ~35–45 min

Tlalnepantla:

• Palacio Municipal de Tlalnepantla (historic building) – ~35 min
• Parque de los Ciervos (park) – ~35 min

Atizapán de Zaragoza:

• Parque El Cedral (park/nature) – ~40 min
• Club Campestre Atizapán (cultural/sports center) – ~40 min

Huixquilucan:

• La Cañada (nature/park) – ~35–45 min
• Centro Cultural Mexiquense Bicentenario (museum/cultural center) – ~40 min

Tlalpan outskirts:

• Bosque de los Remedios (park/nature) – ~35 min
• Ex-Hacienda de Santa Mónica (historic site/park) – ~30–40 min

These nearby metropolitan attractions allow visitors to explore parks, museums, and cultural sites just outside the main city, offering a quick break from the central neighborhoods. Most can be visited in 1–2 hours, making them perfect short excursions.

The extended region beyond the metropolitan area includes cities and towns outside the Metropolitan area. These destinations are ideal for day trips or longer excursions, offering archaeological sites, historical towns, and natural landscapes that require more travel time.

Archaeological sites

• Teotihuacan – ~50–60 min from CDMX
• Tula – ~1.5 hours from CDMX

Historic cities

• Puebla – ~2 hours from CDMX
• Cuernavaca – ~1.5–2 hours from CDMX
• Toluca – ~1.5 hours from CDMX
• Valle de Bravo (lake town) – ~2 hours from CDMX

Nature and reserves

• La Marquesa National Park – ~35–45 min from CDMX
• Bosque de los Remedios (nature/park) – ~35 min from CDMX
• Nevado de Toluca (nature reserve) – ~1.5 hours from CDMX
• Popocatépetl area (nature reserve) – ~2 hours from CDMX

These destinations make up the Greater Mexico City area, offering travelers the chance to explore Mexico’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty beyond the city limits. Most require half a day to a full day, making them ideal for memorable day trips.

Mexico City’s gastronomy showcases a rich mix of flavors from across Mexico. In the city center, tacos al pastor, tamales, quesadillas, and enchiladas are staples, served in vibrant markets and street stalls, offering authentic tastes of traditional Mexican cuisine.

Visitors can also enjoy chiles en nogada, sopes, tortas, and tlacoyos, reflecting centuries-old culinary traditions. Markets and small eateries highlight regional ingredients, while cafés offer modern takes on classics, blending heritage with contemporary urban flavors.

For beverages, locals and tourists savor atole, aguas frescas, champurrado, and Mexican hot chocolate. Street stalls, cafés, and food markets provide a lively experience where the city’s culinary diversity and cultural richness come to life for every visitor.

Where to eat in Mexico City

Mexico City offers a vibrant culinary scene, ranging from street food to cozy cafés and food markets. Visitors can explore local flavors, traditional dishes, and international cuisine throughout the city, experiencing the unique tastes that define the capital’s gastronomy.

Areas and experiences:

• Historic Center / Cuauhtémoc – street food stalls, traditional markets, casual cafés
• Roma & Condesa neighborhoods – trendy cafés, small bistros, gourmet street food
• Coyoacán – local markets, artisanal snacks, traditional desserts
• San Ángel – cafés, artisan food markets, weekend food fairs
• Polanco – upscale culinary experiences, cafés, international flavors
• Xochimilco – food stalls along the canals, local specialties, snacks
• La Roma Norte / Roma Sur – casual dining, street food, coffee shops
• Del Valle & Narvarte – local markets, casual cafés, traditional dishes

Exploring Mexico City’s gastronomy is a journey through flavors, aromas, and textures. From street food to neighborhood cafés, visitors can sample authentic Mexican dishes and regional specialties, making each meal an essential part of the city experience.

Mexico City is a vibrant hub of traditions, holidays, and festivals that reflect its rich history and cultural diversity. From indigenous customs to Spanish influences, the city celebrates numerous events year-round, offering visitors an immersive cultural experience.

Key traditions and festivals:

• Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
• Semana Santa (Holy Week)
• Independence Day (September 16)
• Festival del Centro Histórico
• Christmas & Posadas

Experiencing Mexico City’s festivals and traditions allows visitors to witness centuries of cultural heritage. Each holiday and celebration offers a unique window into the city’s identity, blending indigenous, colonial, and modern influences in lively public events.

Navigating Mexico City is easy with a variety of transportation options. From metro and buses to bikes and taxis, visitors can efficiently explore neighborhoods, attractions, and cultural sites, making travel around this vast metropolis practical and accessible.

How to get around (local transport)

• Metro
• Metrobús
• Taxis
• Bicycles
• Combis and minibuses

Many neighborhoods are pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

Mexico City has a vast and complex transportation network connecting all parts of the metropolis. The metro system is one of the largest in the world, fast and affordable, covering most neighborhoods and allowing visitors to reach major attractions efficiently every day.

For those preferring buses, the Metrobús lines run on dedicated lanes, offering quicker travel along key routes. Local minibuses and combis serve smaller streets and areas beyond the metro’s reach, widely used by residents and providing flexible options for exploring the city.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient for short trips. For eco-friendly travel, the Ecobici bike-sharing program provides stations throughout the city, while walking remains ideal for exploring pedestrian-friendly areas like the historic center and cultural districts.

Mexico City is well-connected nationally and internationally. The city’s main airport, Benito Juárez International, offers numerous flights to major cities worldwide, while long-distance buses link CDMX with other regions, providing flexible travel options.

Mexico City offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to boutique stays and budget-friendly hostels. Choosing the right neighborhood helps visitors experience the city’s culture, nightlife, gastronomy, and proximity to major attractions comfortably.

Popular neighborhoods include Centro Histórico, ideal for exploring historic sites, plazas, and museums. Roma and Condesa offer trendy cafes, parks, and nightlife. Polanco features upscale shopping and cultural centers, while Coyoacán provides a more relaxed, artistic atmosphere.

Other areas, like Santa Fe, suit business travelers with modern hotels and corporate centers, while Chapultepec gives easy access to parks and museums. Staying near the metro or Metrobús lines ensures convenient transport across the city for sightseeing or commuting.

With so many neighborhoods, Mexico City caters to all tastes and budgets. Visitors can choose a location that suits their interests, whether historic charm, modern luxury, or cultural immersion, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay in the vast metropolis.