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3 Days in Mexico City Itinerary (First-Timer Guide)
Mexico City is a big and vibrant place to discover, we spent 3 days visiting Mexico City for the first time and are here to give you all the routes, food spots, itinerary and tips you need to visit for your first visit. Mexico City is absolutely worth visiting and our Mexico City travel guide is perfect for short trips and first timers.
Quick Overview of This Mexico City Itinerary
- Day 1: Visit the historic centre of Mexico City and soak up the culture.
- Day 2: Roma Norte + Condesa and Taco Tour with a local chef
- Day 3: Day Trip options
Where Is Mexico City + Why Visit?
Mexico City is the capital of Mexico and located in the central in Mexico State. It sits at a high altitude of approximately 2,200m and was built on top of the ruins of the ancient Aztec capital, Tenochtitlán. It is such cool city to visit, full of culture, history and a unique European style of pedestrian culture, architecture and vibrant neighbourhood life but also has a bustling economic energy similar to cities in the USA.
Day 1: Historic Centre + Culture
The centre of Mexico City is its historic and cultural heart. It is one of the most interesting areas and truly full of things to do. The absolute centre is called the Zócalo and it is where you will find much of the history. Head to the centre and check out the biggest flag I have ever seen then make sure to visit the following sites near by.
The Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral
The cathedral is built over the top of the Aztec capital and is actually sinking as it is built on a lake. They are trying to fix this but you can feel it as you walk through the cathedral.
Plaza Manuel Gamio
This plaza is right next to the cathedral and where you will find loads of souvenir markets with Sharman doing traditional cleansing ceremonies. This is so interesting to watch and take part for a donation if you are keen!
Templo Mayor Museum
The historic site and museum of the ruins of the ancient Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán. You can explore the museum for 100 MXP which also gives you access to walk amongst the ruins and over the bridge. However if you are not too historically inclined or very short on time you can observe the ruins from the top for free.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
This is one of the grandest buildings in Mexico City. A marble performance hall with ornate design and murals throughout. We arrived on a day it was closed but would love to go inside on this Exclusive Tour of Palacio de Bellas Artes.
Plaza de Santo Domingo
One of the smaller plazas in Mexico City, surrounded by 18th-century buildings it has a large church at one end and next to it Palacio de la Inquisición building. Once the headquarters of the Holy Inquisition in Mexico until closed in 1812, it is now the Museum of Mexican Medicine. This plaza was where scribes would do paperwork for merchants using the customs building, it is now a bustling plaza with a market and nice change from the large Zocalo.
Gran Hotel Ciudad de México
This old hotel is beautiful and while you used to be able to go upstairs to see the view from the rooftop it is now closed off. You can however go in and check out the beautiful interior.
Alameda Central
One of the oldest parks in Mexico City, it is decorated with lots of fountains and gardens. It is the perfect place to take a stroll, enjoy a coffee and people watch.
Palacio Postal
This is a unique stop, an early 20th-century post office. It is the most ornate working post office I have ever seen, inside looks more like a palace and also has a naval museum.
República de Cuba
Mexico City is known for its unique neighbourhoods and one to walk through is the República de Cuba for its urban vibe, Doctores and Obrera and Regina Alley for street art,
República de Argentina 28
This building is actually an Education building and was once a secret spot in Mexico City to see some stunning murals. It is now a small museum, free to enter after signing in. The murals are really incredible, there is excellent information about them and the courtyard is the perfect spot to sit with a coffee and hide away from the busy city outside the walls.
Calle madero
One of the main streets that leads to the cathedral and Zocolo, lots of shops here to grab snacks, money changing and gold jewellery buying!
Estanquillo Museum
This is my favourite hidden gem, a free museum located right on Calle Madero it has multiple floors of displays and if you head up to the rooftop you will get a gorgeous view over the city! There is a cafe and bookshop there to relax on the lounges as well.
Los Cocuyos
You have been racing around so head to Los Cocuyos to grab some tacos. Try the Al Pastor which is the taco of Mexico City to me, if it is good enough for Anthony Bourdain it’s good enough for me.
Latin American Tower Viewpoint
This tower is a great viewpoint to look out over the city.
Biblioteca Vasconcelos
This is a cool library to check out with its futuristic interior. The perfect place to slow down your city adventure.
Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela
This is the biggest artisanal market in Mexico City and perfect for souvenir shopping. We came here and thought the prices were a little high…then we went to Sayulita and realised these were reasonable! Lots of handwoven textiles, pottery and paintings to choose from.
Monument to the Revolution
This is a famous and very tall monument to the Mexican Revolution. You can go to the top in an elevator and take in the view from the observation deck.
These are just some of the places to see in the city centre, you can also book this Historic Downtown Walking Tour which will show you the best and get you around in a timely manner.
Day 2: Roma Norte + Condesa (Trendy Areas) + Taco Tour
On Day 2 you will explore all the things to do in things to do Roma Norte Condesa area. This is one of the trendy areas of Mexico City along with Condesa and Polanco.
Polanco
Polanco is the upscale shopping area of Avenida Presidente Masaryk and where many like to base themselves. Walk the pretty leafy side streets and check out the Spanish Colonial Revival mansions.
Museo Soumaya
This museum’s futuristic design is enough of a draw card but throw in it’s huge Rodin collection makes it a must see. It has free entry but a tour can really help understand the displays.
Parks, Cafes and Walkable City Culture
Parque Lincoln is one of the nicest parks to sit and watch the world go by, there are some great cafes around, particularly Latte Latte Coffee Crafters, Niddo Café Polanco or Blue Box Café Mexico City for a really special coffee moment. This area is such a nice breezy walkable area that feels a world away from the busy central area.
Roma Norte
Roma Norte is the epi centre of Mexico City’s culinary and artistic culture. Here you will find hipsters and young professionals. This is the area that everyone wants to live in, attracted by its leafy central avenue, Avenida Álvaro Obregón. You will find eateries, bars and old refurbished mansions lining the avenue. There is also some great street art in this area.
The Angel of Independence
This is a tall statue with the goddess of victory at the top, it was created to commemorate Mexico’s independence.
Condesa
Condesa is one of my favourite neighbourhoods of Mexico City. It has wide, tree-lined avenues, stunning art nouveau mansions and gorgeous art deco apartment buildings. It has a chic European vibe and you will see a mix of professionals, hipsters and a younger crowd at the stylish cafes, trendy bistros and casual taquerias. There are also cool bars that fill up in the evening.
Parque México
This is one of the nicest parks in Mexico City, and there are a lot! We loved sitting in the lush gardens and soaking up the peace and quiet.
Museo Nacional de Antropología
This is one of the biggest museums in Mexico City and contains artefacts from the early Mayan civilizations. You can pre purchase your entry ticket and skip the line to start exploring the ancient history of Mexico.
Chapultepec Castle
Chapultepec Castle is high on my priority list for when we come back to Mexico City. This gorgeous castle sits on a hill and is open Tuesdays to Sundays, 9 to 5 pm. You will find the National Museum of History here amongst the gardens. You do have to pay to enter but you can also book this tour that includes tickets and a tour of the castle and museum. Chapultepec Castle Mexico City itinerary fits easily into your day 2 Mexico City Itinerary as the guide will keep you on time.
Local Taco Tour Experience
We did a local taco tour in the Condesa area and it was the best decision we have made! Learning first hand from a local Mexico City chef about the food, culture and all the best places to try different tacos. We ate SO much…honestly we have done tours that left us hungry but at the end of this one we were stuffed.
Learning about the ingredients and cooking methods from a professional and passionate chef was next level and we felt like we were just hanging out with a friend showing us his town. We highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to experience the best tacos in Mexico City and to more than just taste them but understand them. Book this taco tour here!
The best part was that it was completely gluten free and as a chef was running it he totally understood my allergy needs and made sure I was safe at all stops. We tried everything from the famous Al Pastor ( and learnt about its history) to mole and the freshest tortillas straight from a Tortilleria. It was the perfect way to experience real side of Mexico City food.
Day 3: Get Out Of The City On A Day Tour + Luche Libre
You have to do a day trip when in Mexico City and there are some incredible options! I am listing them below from most popular to ones that are a little more obscure.
Frida Kahlo Museum
This is one of the most popular places to visit that is a little out of the city centre. The home of the famous Mexican artist Frida Kahlo has been turned in to a museum which is well worth a visit. Pre book your ticket and soak up the experience.
Xochimilco Boat Party with Unlimited Drinks
Xochimilco is a UNESCO World Heritage site which is known for its canals established 1000 years ago. It was an agricultural hub, supplying food and flowers to Tenochtitlan. It is now the last remnant of the region’s pre-Hispanic lake system and a bustling tourist destination where you can ride the colourful trajineras (gondola-like boats), have drinks and soak up the atmosphere. This is one of the most popular tours you can do there, book as early as possible as it is likely to sell out.
Xochimilco, Coyoacan with Frida Kahlo & Optional Lunch
Combine a trip to Xochimilco with the Frida Kahlo museum and enjoy a fully organised day as pick up and return is in the city. Book this tour here.
Teotihuacan Balloon Flight with Optional Pyramids Tour
This is one of the most epic day tours from Mexico City! Fly over the Teotihuacan Pyramids on a hot-air balloon ride, and enjoy a champagne toast and breakfast. You can also upgrade your trip with a guided visit to the ruins and the Guadalupe Shrine.
Teotihuacan & Guadalupe Shrine Tour with Lunch
With this tour you don’t do the hot air ballooning but discover it all on ground. Visit Teotihuacan, Tlatelolco, and the Guadalupe Shrine, an authentic Mexican restaurant or enjoy a traditional Mexican Barbacoa experience.
Tolantongo Caves Small Group Tour
This tour is one I really want to do, it does sell out quickly so book early. The Tolantongo Caves look amazing and like the perfect place to escape from the city.
Go to a Luche Libre Show
You have to do a Luche Libre show when you are in Mexico City! In all honesty Mike really wanted to do this and I wasn’t sure what to think but we had an absolute ball! The whole experience from start to finish is fun, professional and exciting. Get swept away with the locals calling out cheering or booing to the fighters.
It is a really exciting show, you can sit as close or as far away as you like from the action. We chose seats in row 9 seat 26 & 27 in Ring N for Naranga (which is the orange section on the booking image) but we think that row 11 would have been the perfect spot to be a little elevated over the top of those in front. Be warned if you choose to sit ringside you will be IN the action. The fighters were being hurled off the platform and at times into the crowd in the front row….be ready in case you have to dodge them.
We booked tickets on Ticketmaster and made our own way there but if you want an easier option then book this Mexican Evening, Lucha Libre, and Tequila Tour and everything will be taken care of for you (it does sell out!). Mike bought his mask outside the event, there are lots of stalls there to purchase from with masks ranging from 70MXN to 800MXN. Mike found his at the stall below for 150MXN which was excellent value and a great mask. The night was a lot of fun and I would recommend it to anyone!
Mexico City Itinerary Map
This map gives you a sense of the layout of the city and where everything is each day.
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Where to Stay in Mexico City
If you are looking for where to stay in Mexico City first time then let me explain the best areas Mexico City tourists.
Centro Histórico is the best area for more budget stays as there are loads of options here. We stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites Mexico City and loved it. If you are looking for a more budget option Suites Alcazar is well reviewed for the price. Zócalo Central has the most incredible roof top views and Barceló Mexico Reforma and Hilton Mexico City Reforma are both very popular and well located.
Stay in Polanco for the elite luxury hotels namely, JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City Polanco and Hyatt Regency Mexico City. This is the best budget option I could find in Polanco.
Roma Norte is the trendy area, full of cool cafes and a young hipster scene, check out NaNa Vida CDMX or Brick Hotel Mexico City
Condesa is a popular walkable neighbourhood that is well liked by locals and tourists, the best options I could find are Casa Castillo Condesa or Holiday Inn Express Ciudad de Mexico Condesa by IHG.
What to Eat in Mexico City
Mexico City is known as a foodie hot spot with its local dishes, tacos and incredible Mexico City street food. Things to try are the infamous Tacos al Pastor (marinated pork), Tacos de Canasta (steamed tacos), Tlacoyos (stuffed masa cakes) and Guajolotas (tamale sandwiches). Tacos are number 1 in Mexico City and we loved learning about the different types on our Mexico City Street Food Tour. We loved the al pastor at Los Cocuyos, tacos at local Mom and Pop spot Taquería Buenavista, Mike loved the churros at Churreria El Moro Centro as well.
Is Mexico City Safe?
Mexico City is huge and divided up in neighbourhoods. We only visited Centro Historico, Roma Norte, Poblanco and Condesa and felt safe in all of them. Particularly in Roma Norte, Poblanco and Condesa where it felt like you were in really lovely areas. Even a few locals we met said that they were the safest areas and walking around at night going to bars wouldn’t be a problem. Of course when answering the question “is Mexico City safe for tourists 2026” we have to always recommend taking your usual travel safety precautions such as using Ubers and tracking where you are going, walk with your head up and look like you know where you are heading, don’t be drunk rolling around the streets, wave cash around or wear outrageously expensive clothes or jewellery. We usually follow these and haven’t had an issue.
Budget for 3 Days in Mexico City
Our Mexico City budget was pretty simple, we stayed in midrange accommodation, most of the attractions we visited were free and we lived on the delicious street food which is cheaper than restaurants. As a rough guide we spent approximately:
- Accommodation $100 USD per night
- Food from 3 for 60MXN tacos to 100 for 3 tacos. It really depends on where you choose to eat, we came across a stall that was 100MXN per taco!
- Tours can range from $25-$300+ USD depending on what you are doing.
- The main transport we used was to walk or take an Uber. Mexico City is pretty walkable and Ubers are great to get further around. Ubers are mid range in pricing, not the cheapest but not the most expensive we have seen either.
How to Get Around Mexico City
Uber is the fastest way to get exactly where you are going. It is pretty midrange when compared to other cities or countries pricing.
If you are keen to avoid traffic the bus system is excellent, we wanted to use it but were not prepared and hadn’t bought tickets. We looked at a bus stop and there wasn’t a buy card option so it must only be from larger locations. You need a rechargeable MI Card to use the bus. We ended up walking and getting our steps wayyyyy up!
If you are looking for an easy way to get around to the big attractions in the city then check out the Hop-on Hop-off City Tour by Turibus 1-Day Pass. It stops off at all the major areas so you can explore 4 scenic routes: Centro, Coyoacán, Basilica, and Polanco at your own pace.
Best Time to Visit Mexico City
The best time of year to visit Mexico City is during the dry season between March to May and October to November. In March you will get the blooming jacaranda trees in parks which was lovely. In November you will see festivals such as the Day of the Dead. November to March is also nice with milder days and cooler nights. To avoid crowds the low season is May to June or September to November.
Mistakes to Avoid
There are some common mistakes everyone makes on their first trip to Mexico City, even us! The first being trying to see too much. It is impossible to see it all, especially in 3 days. Use our itinerary as a guide and only do the things you are interested in. The second mistake is forgetting about traffic, this is a big city and it will take time to get around it. Finally book your tours early! They really do sell out and if you have specific dates or times you need it is best to lock it away as soon as you know.
FAQ for Mexico City
Is 3 days enough?
3 days in Mexico City is enough to see the main sights and do a day trip. Honestly there is so much to do that I could have spent a week but I know we will come back to add to it.
Is Mexico City expensive?
Mexico City isn’t as expensive as other big cities and it is possible to do it on a budget.
Best area to stay?
I enjoyed staying in Centro Historico, it was central and easy to get around. If I wanted to choose a second location I would go with Roma Norte or Condesa, it is so cool and trendy there, I loved the vibe.
Mexico City is vibrant and full of history, culture and so much to do that we already want to return. If you love cities that offer more than expected and quietly steal your heart you will love Mexico City.
Plan your trip:
👉 Read next: Things to do in Merida, Mexico
👉 Plan your trip: Mexico Travel Itinerary
👉 Don’t miss: Is Mahahual Mexico worth visiting?
Want to see it all in action? Watch our full Mexico series on YouTube (subscribe to our channel to stay up to date with our travel guides) and follow along on Instagram @passport_nomads and @kelly___buckley for real-time travel tips, guides, and behind-the-scenes moments.
We hope this guide helped you plan an unforgettable trip.
