Mexico City, the capital of all things awesome in Mexico, serves up a sizzling blend of history, culture, and modern pizzazz that totally blows the socks off visitors from around the globe. From its ancient stomping grounds packed with mind-boggling landmarks like the Zócalo and Templo Mayor (Tenochtitlan)—to its hip, happening modern hangouts like the tech-savvy neighborhoods of Polanco and Santa Fe, Mexico City is the ultimate time-traveling experience.
Where to Stay in the City?
The Hyatt Regency Hotel in Polanco or check out Airbnbs in Polanco for half the price. This is a very safe area in the City.
What to Do?
You would probably need a good 6 months to be satsified. Mexico city is like NYC, but on 4 shots of espresso. Here is an intro to enjoy CDMX:
Castillo de Chapultepec: The uphill journey was a bit of a struggle because it was so hot (June), but the killer views at the top made it all worth it. The “castle” is more like a fancy museum, but it’s still beautiful and full of history. No Need to prepurchase your tickets, just buy it at the gate. Chaputlepec park is just over DOUBLE the size of Central Park in NYC, so spend a whole day (or two) exploring and experience what more this park has to offer.
Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe:
This Catholic place of worship is filled with history and wonderful art. Upon entering through the “Calzada de los Misterios” street, you’ll have the chance to see the revered La Tilma de Juan Diego with Our Lady of Guadalupe on it. The back of the original sinking basilica houses a museum, and you can also take a short walk/hike up the hill behind the basilica. This visit typically takes 1.5 to 3 hours. Respectful behavior is expected as this is also a place of prayer.
There are two Hello Kitty Cafes in CDMX but the one you want to visit is the Cheateau which is located at Av. de la Paz 14, San Ángel, Álvaro Obregón, 01000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico. The other one is in a mall-Beautiful Mall, but not what we cant see in Irvine so we skipped that one. Make sure to book your reservation through Open Table. You get to see Hello Kitty’s house with a minimum purchase which is easily attained just by getting breakfast or buying something at the store. It is all pink and all Kitty, totally worth a visit.
Have dinner at one of the restaurants with a view of Mexico City’s central plaza, El Zocalo! I checked out two of them:
El Balcón del Zocalo and La Terraza. Both were amazing, but in different ways. You need an Open Table reservation for El Balcon del Zocalo, and for La Terraza you just need to email the hotel at terraza@granhotelcdmex.com.mx.
Personally, I’d say La Terraza was better because of its “experience” 8-10 course meal, which was dedicated to women. It’s definitely one of my top 5 food experiences, and I’m a foodie. Not only was the food experience an A+, but the view at La Terraza was better because you’re right next to a Cathedral and have a front row view of the Palacio Nacional. President Claudia Sheinbaum spoke in El Zocalo, and it was a complete honor to be in that space as the First Female president was just voted in the day before and gave her acceptance speech. There are many other places to explore around the Zocalo, including the largest Mexican Flag I’ve ever seen!
Get dessert @ Churreria el Moro
There are several locations, we went to the one in the Centro: Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas 42,
Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX,
Mexico
If you’re a Frida Kahlo fan, you must visit her childhood home, La Casa Azul. This popular museum offers a deep look into the artist’s life and work. Secure tickets in advance for the best experience. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with varying hours each day. Special holiday hours apply, so plan accordingly. You can conveniently find it at Londres 247, in Colonia Del Carmen, Coyoacán. The official website offers ticket purchasing options, and there are automatic kiosks at Centenario 107 Restaurant. Plus, your ticket grants access to Diego Rivera’s nearby museum.
See a show @ Palacio de Bellas Artes
Visiting the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City is an immersive experience, transcending cultural tourism by offering a fusion of architectural splendor and artistic grandeur. This iconic building, renowned for its stunning Art Nouveau exterior and Art Deco interior, stands as a significant cultural landmark. The building’s awe-inspiring marvel, elaborate marble structures, and intricate facades showcase European and indigenous Mexican artistic influences. Attending a performance within its opulent walls provides a deeply enriching encounter with the arts, while witnessing the grandeur of its exterior offers immense aesthetic pleasure and invites contemplation on the rich cultural heritage it embodies.
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