Things to do in 

Mexico City

Life pulses through the veins of Mexico City, where age-old tradition meets modern living in a whirl of color, scent, and sound that paints every street. There are countless things to do in Mexico City, no two experiences the same — the local markets' bustling chaos, the delicious street food stands, the echoing footsteps through historical landmarks or the tranquil parks and vibrant festivals that change with the season. Each neighborhood whispers its tales, inviting exploration both on the well-trodden path and beyond, into the lesser-known corners that make this city so rich in character and warmth.

Explore Mexico City off the beaten path

Take a slower route through CDMX with alternative things to do, seeking small stages, side-street museums, and markets where locals sift, sip, and linger.

Cultural experiences: Warm up your evening at Salón Los Ángeles in Guerrero; join a danzón class, then watch the floor fill with old-school couples. Before dinner, try a tart guava pulque at Pulquería Las Duelistas and chat with the barman about flavors.

Small museums and galleries: Browse MUJAM—the antique toy museum—in Doctores; it’s quirky and usually quiet. Walk to MODO in Roma to see everyday Mexican design, from soda bottles to posters. If you have time, detour to Museo del Tiempo Tlalpan for chiming clocks and radios in a creaky old house.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Order a coffee at the Sears Café terrace opposite Palacio de Bellas Artes and watch the golden light slide over the dome near sunset. For big-sky views, head to UNAM’s Espacio Escultórico in late afternoon and gaze across the lava fields toward Ajusco.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: Go early Saturday to Bazaar Sábado in San Ángel for handwoven rebozos and pottery straight from the makers. On Sunday late morning, pick through vintage at La Lagunilla—vinyl, lucha masks, mid-century glass—then bargain a little. For useful, well-made gifts any day, swing by Utilitario Mexicano in Roma for enamel mugs, brushes, and kitchen tools.

Popular neighbourhoods

One of the most immersive ways to experience Mexico City's personality and vibrancy lies in exploring its distinct neighbourhoods, each richer in culture and history than the last.

Historic Center: Immerse yourself in the heart of Mexico City, where ancient ruins, lovable squares, and majestic cathedral facades create an absorbing narrative of life in the metropolis.

Roma Norte: Nestled amidst innovative eateries and independent boutiques, enjoy a leisure stroll through this shaded neighbourhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere and colonial-era architecture.

Condesa: Saunter through Condesa's wide, tree-lined avenues peppered with art nouveau townhouses, hip eateries and chic indie shops, a silent testimony to its sophisticated charisma.

Polanco: Experience Mexico City's upscale side in Polanco, home to swanky shopping avenues, fine-dining spots, and a world-class museum district eager to share riveting tales.

Coyoacan: Step foot in this colourful neighbourhood to witness the living legacy of Spanish colonial energy, embodied in colourful buildings, traditional food markets, and vibrant art scene.

Things to do in Mexico City by season

Spring: Watch jacarandas splash the avenues purple, then wander Chapultepec in mild sunshine before the rains return. Step inside cool museums at midday and look for Holy Week processions and quieter streets around Easter, a good moment for families and slow travellers.

Summer: Expect warm mornings and brief afternoon showers that freshen the air while cafés and mercados hum along. Join the Pride parade along Reforma in late June, then drift through Xochimilco when canals are lush and festive, a relaxed outing for multigenerational groups.

Fall: Trace Día de Muertos altars and marigold trails from neighbourhood plazas to the Zócalo, tasting pan de muerto along the way. Hear the Grito on 15 September, with fireworks and music turning the historic centre into a night-time gathering that couples and friends savour.

Winter: Count on crisp blue skies, holiday lights on Reforma and nativity scenes in public squares for a low-key Christmas in the capital. Nibble rosca de reyes in early January and enjoy cool, crowd-light days that suit seniors and culture fans.

Annual festivals range from the free Day of the Dead parade in late October to monthly Noche de Museos, when galleries and museums extend hours across the city. Independence Day ceremonies on 15–16 September and the springtime Mega Ofrendas in public spaces invite easy, open-air celebrating without tickets.