Downtown Mexico City Historic Center: 15 Places to Visit + Tips
Planning on visiting Downtown Mexico City? You’re in the right place!
Mexico City, the vibrant and bustling capital of Mexico, never ceases to amaze. With a profusion of neighborhoods and districts to explore, none can quite compare to the rich history and culture you’ll find in downtown Mexico City.
It’s both one of my favorite and most hated parts of Mexico City. For one, it is filled with a vast array of cultural sights, but it can also be quite a sensory overload!
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about downtown Mexico City.
TOP TOUR IN MEXICO CITY DOWNTOWN
✔️ Experience many of the historic city center’s highlights in a half-day outing
✔️ Customize the itinerary with your interests
✔️ Begin your walk at a convenient downtown location or request airport pickup
✔️ Top-rated walking tour of Downtown Mexico City Historical Center
Downtown Mexico City: Overview
Downtown Mexico City is a treasure trove of culinary delights, historical wonders, and comfortable accommodations.
Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an adventurer, this vibrant neighborhood has something for everyone.
The historic center of this sprawling metropolis is an amazing cultural hub where different eras are reflected in the timeless architecture of its buildings, plazas, churches, and museums.
In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through this remarkable Mexico City district, showcasing its top hotels, restaurants, shopping options, and attractions to help you make the most of your visit.
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💡 What is Considered the Center of Mexico City?
Strictly speaking, the center of Mexico City is the downtown district focused on Zócalo and extending for several surrounding blocks in all directions, with its farthest extent to the west being Juarez Street to Alameda Central Park and the Hidalgo Metro Station.
However, because of its proximity and cultural relevance, Paseo de la Reforma Avenue, which extends to the entrance to the Chapultepec complex and further, as well as Avenida de la Republica and the Revolution Monument, are considered part of the center or heart of the vibrant capital city.
📍 Downtown Mexico City Map
💡 Is the Historic Center of Mexico City Safe?
Yes, the historic center of Mexico City is safe, but you have to take the regular precautions recommended for all major cities.
Keep your belongings on sight at all times, don’t walk into dark alleys, and be alert for pickpockets.
This part of Mexico City is particularly prone to pickpocketing because it’s very crowded, so much so that you even see locals wearing their backpacks on the front.
Additionally, be careful with scammers, and avoid terrace restaurants that tout their wares with exaggerated insistency.
Preferably, stay in the Zocalo – Madero – Alameda corridor at night. You’ll know you’re in the right places because the streets are well-lit and you’ll see people coming and going.
Things to do in Downtown Mexico City Historic Center – top attractions
1. Zócalo Plaza
One of the highlights in downtown Mexico City is the Zocalo main square, a huge public plaza surrounded by historical attractions like the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor archaeological site.
You’ll also find a variety of hotels, restaurants, and shops.
The Zocalo is always alive with celebrations, cultural events, and protests.
It is considered the heart of Mexico in many ways, and the cornerstone of many of the country’s relevant happenings that go from labor and political protests to a Paul McCartney massive concert.
2. Templo Mayor
One of the most important temples in the ancient Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan, the Templo Mayor ruins stand in the heart of downtown Mexico City.
Here, you can explore the archaeological site and learn about the Aztec civilization’s religious practices and daily life.
The ruins were discovered accidentally in the 1970s during excavations for the metro system.
Whether you’re an ancient Mexican civilizations aficionado or you simply want to see where the fascinating Centro Historico was born in the 1300s, Templo Mayor is a must-stop when exploring the Mexico City downtown area.
3. Metropolitan Cathedral
Located in one of the streets that line the Zocalo, the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the most famous religious and historical buildings in the Americas.
Regardless of your religious inclinations, it is worth a visit to admire the impressive Baroque architecture and the lavish gold in the interior and other works of art.
With visible signs of the passage of time, it consists of five Baroque buildings with several columns, arches, and vaults. The cathedral is a must-visit for history and architecture lovers, regardless of spiritual orientation.
4. Palacio Nacional
Palacio Nacional, which dominates the Zocalo, is one of the most iconic historical symbols in Mexico.
Serving as both the official residence of the President and a splendid museum, it proudly boasts beautiful gardens, an enchanting courtyard, and a stunning collection of murals by world-famous artist Diego Rivera depicting the country’s rich history.
The impressive grand facade features the famous “El Grito” balcony, from where the Mexican President shouts the call for independence at 11 pm on September 15th above thousands of spectators in a millenary Mexican tradition.
5. Palacio Bellas Artes
This stunning palace is not only one of the most recognizable buildings in the Mexico City downtown area, because of its sheer size and architectural Art Deco and Neoclassical beauty, but it is also a cultural hub.
Inside, you’ll find the Museo del Palacio de Bellas Artes, which hosts an impressive collection of murals by renowned Mexican artists Diego Rivera and Rufino Tamayo, as well as a beautiful Tiffany stained-glass curtain.
Bellas Artes also works as a theater, hosting a variety of cultural events, so check their web page for specific dates and schedules.
7. Alameda Central Park
A beautiful park located beside Palacio de Bellas Artes, Parque Central La Alameda dates back to the Spanish colony.
Home to various statues, fountains, and benches, it is an ideal spot to take a breather and a dose of nature while exploring the Mexico City downtown area. It is also a great place to people-watch.
8. Torre Latino Americana
Not far from the Bellas Artes, the Torre Latinoamericana is the towering skyscraper that has dominated many Mexico City postcards for decades.
Considered a feat of 20th-century engineering, it provides amazing panoramic views of downtown Mexico City and the impressive skyline that surrounds it.
Torre Latinoamericana was the tallest building in Mexico and Latin America when it was built in 1956, rising 600 ft (183 meters) from the ground.
It has been treating visitors to extraordinary panoramic Mexico City vistas from its observation deck, having withstood several earthquakes.
Tip: There’s a really cool bar here called “51 Sky Bar” which offers great drinks and beautiful views of downtown Mexico City.
9. Diego Rivera Mural Museum
Located in the artist’s former home and studio, Diego Rivera Museum is a treasure trove of the artist and muralist’s work.
Displaying some of his sketches, paintings, and personal belongings, the museum offers a great opportunity to get a profound glimpse of his artwork and lifestyle.
A stroll through the courtyard and garden is the perfect way to reflect on Frida Kahlo’s husband’s contribution to the world of art, in the exact spot that surely served him as inspiration.
On a side note, this is Diego Rivera’s own home and studio, not to be confused with Casa Azul, Kahlo’s house in the Coyoacan district where the couple spent their married life.
10. The House of Tiles (Los Azulejos)
Across the street from Palacio de Bellas Artes, Los Azulejos is a restaurant and shop housed inside an architectural gem adorned with vivid blue and white tiles, which explains the name.
This is a fine example of Spanish Baroque and Moorish influence in Mexico City´s downtown area.
Inside, you’ll get to admire a stunning mural while you eat.
Strangely enough, the compound is home to a chain restaurant and shop (Sanborns), but the owner – Mexican Mogul Carlos Slim – has taken great steps to preserve the building’s original design.
11. Plaza Garibaldi
The most iconic spot to listen to Ranchera music with live mariachis in Mexico City, Plaza Garibaldi was known as Plaza Santa Cecilia until 1920 when the name was changed.
This recently remodeled plaza and kiosk is hands-down the best place to find musicians offering up songs for a fee, right on the plaza or inside one of its famous restaurants.
Some of the most famous restaurants and bars in Garibaldi are Tenampa, Guadalajara de Noche, and the wonderful terrace at the Museo del Tequila y el Mezcal.
Be aware that tequila, mezcal, and pulque flow, so the area can get kind of rowdy late at night. Your best bet is to go in the afternoon and leave in the early evening or opt for a tour with a local who knows the ins and outs.
12. Palacio Postal
A true architectural masterpiece, Palacio Postal is a remarkably well-preserved icon and a reminder of times gone by.
Once Mexico’s central post office, its opulent and lavish corridors are a mixture of Art Noveau and Gothic Revival that will take your breath away.
After exploring the opulent building, you can take the time to send a postcard home, as it still operates as a regular post office!
13. Estanquillo Museum
A charming and somewhat hidden gem in Mexico City’s downtown area, Museo del Estanquillo is housed in yet another beautifully restored colonial building.
It is dedicated mostly to political cartoons and the works of different artists that have marked Mexico’s history.
The cafe on the terrace on the building’s roof is a favorite for intellectuals and artists, who frequently present their books in this simple but significant setting.
14. Mexico City Museum of National Art (MUNAL)
Museo Nacional de Arte, better known as MUNAL, is home to a remarkable collection of Mexican Art, harboring works by world-famous artists like Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Rufino Tamayo.
The colonial building’s beautifully ornate architecture is a work of art in and of itself, which makes a visit here very much worth your while, especially if you’re interested in the evolution of Mexican art.
You’ll find varied pieces that go from traditional religious to avant-garde.
15. San Francisco Church
You’ll find San Francisco Church a few steps from Palacio Postal. A serene and contemplative place, it is one of the oldest churches in Mexico, dating back to the 16th century.
The church houses beautiful religious art and altars, making it an ideal place to light a candle and absorb the calm and relative silence, regardless of your religious beliefs.
16. UNAM Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico
The UNAM in Mexico City is known for several notable achievements and contributions. In fact, its main campus, known as Ciudad Universitaria, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was designed by renowned Mexican architect Juan O’Gorman and is considered a masterpiece of 20th-century urban planning.
It’s also home to one of the most famous murals the “Liberty, Reason, and Tolerance” created by David Alfaro Siqueiros. This mural is located on the central library building within the university’s main campus, Ciudad Universitaria, in Mexico City.
The mural was painted between 1952 and 1956 and is one of Siqueiros’ major works. It covers an extensive area and is known for its powerful depiction of social and political themes. Siqueiros, a prominent Mexican muralist and a member of the Mexican muralism movement, used his art to convey messages of social justice, anti-imperialism, and the struggle for freedom.
“Liberty, Reason, and Tolerance” features various symbolic elements, including figures representing liberty and reason, as well as scenes depicting historical events and revolutionary struggles. The mural is characterized by its dynamic composition, bold colors, and the use of symbolism to convey complex ideas.
This mural, like many others on the UNAM campus, reflects the commitment of the university to promote art, culture, and social consciousness. The murals at UNAM are an integral part of its cultural heritage and contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the campus.
It is definitely worth a visit, but I would recommend booking a tour to learn more about the history and culture of the UNAM.
Things to do near Downtown Mexico City Historical Center
17. Museo Nacional de Antropologia
While it is not exactly in the Centro Historico itself, the National Museum of Anthropology is located on the tourist route from downtown Mexico City to the Paseo de la Reforma Chapultepec area.
Museo Nacional de Antropologia is a huge complex that offers a deep understanding of Mexico’s rich history and culture.
Its impressive collection includes the Colossal Olmec Head at the entrance, a miniature model of Tenochtitlan, and many artifacts from the Aztecs, Olmecs, Mayas, and other indigenous cultures dating back to pre-Columbian times.
18. Chapultepec Park and Castle
Chapultepec Park is situated in the heart of Mexico City, right beside the Antrhopology Museum, and connected to downtown Mexico City by the Majestic Paseo Reforma.
It’s an expansive urban retreat offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park, often likened to Central Park, provides a serene escape from the city buzz.
Inside the park, you can visit the iconic Chapultepec Castle, a historic fortress with breathtaking views of Mexico City. Once a residence for Mexican emperors, the castle now serves as a cultural treasure trove, housing the National Museum of Anthropology. Visitors can explore centuries of Mexican history and marvel at artifacts spanning ancient civilizations to contemporary art.
The park itself is a recreational haven, ideal for picnics, jogging, or leisurely strolls amidst lush greenery. What sets Chapultepec apart is the harmonious coexistence of nature and history – a juxtaposition that creates a captivating experience. Whether admiring the cityscape from the castle or delving into Mexico’s rich cultural heritage, Chapultepec Park and Castles offer a multifaceted and enriching excursion for all.
Even though it’s not exactly located Downtown, I still had to include it in the list as it’s not far away from the Historical Center and definitely worth a visit.
19. Monumento a la Rivolucion (Revolution Monument)
The Revolution Monument in Mexico City is not far from the historical Center (see the above map) and it makes a great sight that I wouldn’t miss, not only for the interesting historical perspective but also for the amazing views you can get from the terrace.
The Monument is in fact a significant historical landmark that commemorates the Mexican Revolution.
Inside the monument, visitors can explore the museum, which showcases a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the Mexican Revolution. The museum provides an insightful look into the key events and figures of this pivotal period in Mexican history.
Additionally, visitors can take an elevator to the top of the monument for panoramic views of the city. There you can also find a cafe and tables where you can have a delicious snack while enjoying the breathtaking views of the city.
It is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. The entrance fee is 550 MXN (about 30 USD) which includes:
- Guided tour
- Access to the Summit
- Panoramic elevator
- Hot drink & pastry
▶︎ Save a few bucks and prebook your ticket here!!
Best Guided Tours in Downtown Mexico City
There are several tours to help you explore Downtown Mexico City. These are some of our favorites:
✔️ Mexico City Layover: Downtown City Sightseeing
5.0 ⭐️ 118 Reviews
If you’re short on time, this tour is specially designed for you to get the most out of a half-day stay or layover in Mexico City. See as many downtown Mexico City highlights as possible in a few hours.
Best of all, you can customize this private guided walking tour to fit your needs and interests.
You can meet your guide at a downtown location in the capital’s historic center or arrange airport pickup for an extra fee.
Great tour, filled all our expectations. Daniela was excellent.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Cheryl_L, Nov 2023
✔️ Private City Tour Mexico City
5.0 ⭐️ 248 Reviews
With so much to see in Mexico City’s Centro Historico, it can get a bit overwhelming.
Worry not, though, as this private walking tour will lead you to the main attractions at your own pace, whenever it fits your schedule.
This experience is ideal for first-timers and a great way to get familiar with the area for future exploration.
Highlights include the Zocalo, Museo del Templo Mayor, Metropolitan Cathedral, Palacio Postal, and Palacio de Bellas Artes.
Very knowledgeable guide who went out of his way to make this an interesting, memorable experience. I would highly recommend him.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ mariongreene, Nov 2023
✔️ Bike Tour in Mexico City
5.0 ⭐️ 40 Reviews
If exploring Chapultepec Forest is what you aim for, this guided bike tour is an extraordinary option.
This urban park is huge, spanning 1695 acres – that is twice the size of New York City’s Central Park! This guided bike tour will help you cover much more than you would on a walking tour or on your own.
Explore the highlights and secrets of Mexico City’s green lung without getting lost. Oh, and don’t worry about a bike and helmet, as they are provided.
This was a perfect way to see Chapultepec Forest! We were able to cover lots of the beautiful area. Miguel was very knowledgeable and a great guide. I would highly recommend this tour!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Dave_T, Jun 2021
✔️ TV & Movie Sites Walking Tour in Mexico City
5.0 ⭐️ 19 Reviews
The Film Tours México is a super cool option for film aficionados, as it merges cinema history to explore Mexico City in a unique way.
First-timers to the city will learn the history of its streets and buildings, while experts can get a whole new perspective by visiting the sites where the most representative movies and series have been shot.
Amazing experience going on the @thefilmtoursmx walking tour of film locations in the historic center of CDMX.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Jan 2023
✔️ Muralist Art Semiprivate Walking Tour in Mexico City Downtown
5.0 ⭐️ 95 Reviews
For travelers interested in art and history, this mural art walking tour is an extraordinary way to see some of Mexico City’s most famous murals of some famous Mexican painters, including those signed by David Siqueiros, Jose Clemente Orozco, and Diego Rivera.
Admire historic murals inspired by the Mexican Revolution and visit the amazing mural project at San Ildefonso College. Groups are limited to 14 people.
Emiliano was very knowledgeable about the murals we visited. He allowed time for questions and explained the circumstances behind the mural and the life of the artist.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Jeffrey_F, Nov 2023
✔️ Private Tour of Mexico City with Anthropology
5.0 ⭐️ 53 Reviews
Want to explore all of Mexico City’s main attractions in a matter of hours?
The private tour of Mexico City with Anthropology is a great choice. Zocalo, Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace, and the National Museum of Anthropology are some of the attractions you’ll visit.
This is a fully narrated tour accommodating 2-12 people. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
What a fabulous tour! Our guide, Bruno, was friendly and professional. We were amazed at his knowledge of history and the sites we visited! We highly recommend Bruno to anyone visiting Mexico City!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Susan_K, Nov 2023
✔️ The Best City Tour in the Zocalo of Mexico City
5.0 ⭐️ 93 Reviews
Perfect for visitors who want to fully immerse themselves in Mexico City’s downtown area, this guided tour will take you to the nooks and crannies of the Centro Historico.
Learn about the cultural, historical, and traditional features that make this city so special.
Explore historical buildings, iconic streets, and local cuisine, as well as significant convents and churches.
The tour begins and ends in Bellas Artes Palace, with visits to Zocalo, Palacio Postal, Palacio de Iturburbide, Catedral Metropolitana, Templo Mayor, Madero Street, Torre Latinoamericana, and more.
Erick was amazing! So knowledgeable and very informative. We learned so much about the city and Mexican history.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Nov 2023
Where to Eat in Downtown Mexico City
Mexico City’s downtown area is a smorgasbord of dining options that range from the simplest food cart selling tamales, tacos, or fruit cocktails, to the finest cuisine served in a ritzy tree-dotted courtyard or rooftop terrace.
Regardless of your personal taste or budget, you´re guaranteed a variety of delicious fare to enhance your taste buds and your stay.
🍽 Azul Historico (Best-Rated Restaurant in Downtown Mexico City)
This upscale restaurant is housed inside a gorgeous colonial building featuring a fantastic courtyard that adds to the overall charm.
Considered one of the finest dining options regarding downtown Mexico City restaurants, it serves authentic Mexican cuisine.
On the menu are traditional dishes like tlayudas, several types of mole, and chiles en nogada, making it a great choice for a special outing.
🍽 El 123 (French and Thai restaurant)
A cozy and intimate dining option in the heart of Mexico City, 12 is a favorite when it comes to downtown Mexico City restaurants that cater to Asian fusion enthusiasts.
Moreover, they have a fine crafts store and a small art gallery on-site for an unforgettable outing that fills the senses.
🍽 El Mejor del Centro (vegan restaurant)
A stone’s throw away from the Zocalo, El Mejor del Centro is considered one of the best vegetarian dining options in downtown Mexico City, offering a nice variety of Mexican delicacies in their veggie version.
Whether you’re a vegetarian or you simply want to lower your meat intake, this is a good spot for dining and getting some healthy cooking ideas.
🍽 Café de Tacuba (Traditional Mexican dishes café)
When it comes to Mexican classics in downtown Mexico City, no one beats Cafe Tacuba.
This legendary restaurant dates back to 1912 and the Mexican Revolution, adding a touch of nostalgia to your dining experience.
Suffice it to say Diego Rivera’s first wedding reception and a governor’s shooting took place here to get an idea of how much history has gone by inside its walls.
Cafe Tacuba offers a traditional Mexican menu, focusing on regional dishes. The decor is pretty much what it was in the old days, even though a fire consumed the interior of the colonial building.
Famous politicians, military personnel, painters, and composers have sat here for hours on end.
🍽 El Cardenal (Mexican)
A culinary gem that features authentic Mexican dishes and old-world charm, El Cardenal is famous for its breakfast.
Their chilaquiles, accompanied by a steaming cup of hot “chocolate Olivia”, are the perfect way to start a day of exploring downtown Mexico City.
For dinner, El Cardenal offers a varied menu of Mexican classics from all states in the country. Although their Centro Historico classic location is the one on Palma Street, you can find them inside the Hilton Alameda as well.
🍽 Los Cocuyos (tacos)
Perfect for a quick snack or evening dinner, this unassuming street food stand is about as iconic as it can get when it comes to street food in Mexico City. Popular for their delicious tacos al pastor, Los Cocuyos has a loyal following among locals.
Where to Stay in Downtown Mexico City
Wondering what the Downtown Hotel Mexico City scene is like? The best way to describe it is varied and tailored to your needs.
Whether you’re big on luxury and comfort, traveling on a budget, or want a specific location or style, downtown Mexico City will deliver.
🛏 Budget: Selina Mexico City Downtown
Hotel Selina Mexico City Downtown is an experience in itself.
With an unbeatable location in the heart of Mexico City and a pleasant artistic design, this trendy hostel provides accommodations for different budgets, ranging from cozy shared dormitories to double, triple, and quadruple rooms with a private bathroom.
Selina’s communal spaces make it an ideal place to meet other guests – think a cool rooftop terrace with wonderful city vistas, a pool table, and a bar.
The location was amazing: 10 minutes walking to the Palacio de bellas Artes. Also a metro station rigt in front of the hostel. Great co-working area and very good internet.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ marin, november 2023
🛏 Midrange: Zocalo Central
If you’re aiming to immerse yourself in downtown Mexico City, Zocalo Central & Rooftop Downtown Mexico City Hotel has a privileged location by the Metropolitan Cathedral.
Housed in an 1890s historical building, it offers beautifully designed rooms and suites, with the option of a view overlooking the iconic Zocalo plaza.
Great location & hospitality of staff. Bottled water is so easily accessible for guests. Really comfortable bed & good shower. Beautiful venue.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ SHAUNA, NOVEMBER 2023
🛏 Luxury: Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico City
Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico is a splendid Hotel Downtown Mexico City option, especially if you’re aiming for the perfect fusion of luxury, history, and location.
This 5-star beauty is situated in the Zocalo, Mexico City´s downtown main plaza.
Grand Hotel is housed in a historic building that boasts a magnificent interior. two exquisite restaurants, a fitness center, and stunning views of the National Palace and Metropolitan Cathedral.
Guestrooms feature beautiful decor, comfy beds, a large desk, and a spacious bathroom.
We had a beautiful view of Zocalo and the location of the hotel is excellent.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ SANDRA, NOVEMBER 2023
🛏 Hostel: Hostal Regina Down Town Mexico City
For budget travelers, Hotel Regina Downtown Beds Mexico City is a top choice.
Located within easy walking distance from the main downtown Mexico City attractions, this youth Hostel occupies a restored historic building.
Featuring high ceilings, parquet floors, and cool decor in a fusion of colonial-modern, Hotel Regina offers spacious rooms and dormitories that include storage lockers and bed linen.
Complimentary fresh coffee and daily bread served in the restaurant are included. An on-site cafe and bar is a great spot to relax with fellow travelers.
Great location and super friendly staff, I 100% recommend it. The hostel is very clean and the shared bedrooms are very comfortable.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ DEVANT, MAY 2023
Shopping in Downtown Mexico City
Downtown Mexico City is a tapestry of historic landmarks and seemingly endless shopping options.
Whether you’re on the lookout for traditional Mexican crafts or small souvenirs, or simply want to enhance your wardrobe, Centro Historico has your back.
From friendly street vendor stalls and markets to modern shopping malls and charming boutiques, this city has something for every shopper.
Fun fact: Downtown Mexico City was the only place to do some serious shopping for many decades, which led to there being specialized streets where competitors worked side by side.
Some examples are the “bride street” on República de Chile, where young women shopped for their wedding dresses, the “lamp & light” street on Calle Victoria, and so on. The system is still in place today!
🛍 Souvenir Shopping
No trip is complete without souvenirs, and downtown Mexico City offers a multitude of options for picking up mementos of your time in this exciting city.
If you’re aiming for small mementos and trinkets, you’re sure to find tons of them in small shops and street vendors by simply walking the streets.
For finer arts and crafts, Fonart and Centro Artesanal are good choices.
👉🏽 Ciudadela Handicraft Market
When it comes to traditional markets to acquire Mexican arts and crafts, the Ciudadela is hard to beat.
Its bustling corridors house local artisans proudly showcasing their work, which includes finely woven textiles, colorful alebrijes, ceramic pottery, hand-painted artwork, and much more.
The Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela dates back to 1965 when it opened its doors to become a haven for arts and crafts vendors and buyers.
Inside its walls, you can find finished products, as well as items being crafted right then and there.
🛍 Fashion and Boutiques
Even though Polanco is the most popular district for high-end and luxury shopping, the downtown Mexico City area has its share of fashion boutiques.
Most of them are concentrated in lively Madero Street, which is a bustling pedestrian corridor.
Madero is the iconic street that runs from the Torre Latinoamericana to the Zocalo. It is home to an array of boutiques that sit amidst historic buildings, restaurants, and churches.
Think Levi’s, Zara, H&M, Pandora, and the local Cuidado con el Perro and Lineas – both have great prices, by the way.
🛍 Contemporary Shopping Malls
No shopping adventure in Mexico City is complete without visiting one of the city’s shopping malls, if only to testify that Mexico does have many of them and they are as modern as complexes in more developed countries.
While Centro Historico is known for its old-world charm, it boasts a couple of classic department stores – Liverpool and Palacio de Hierro, where you will find many world-famous brands as well as local items.
As for full-blown shopping malls with global luxury brands, you’ll need to travel a mile or two outside of the main Centro Historico streets.
Reforma 222 and Plaza Antara are two good options if you get a retail or luxury brand urge during your Mexico City stay. Both are located inside the tourist quadrant near most of the main attractions.
Getting Around Downtown Mexico City Center
Downtown Mexico City has the marvelous edge of being very walkable and pedestrian-friendly, which does not necessarily happen in other parts of the country.
Here, red lights and pedestrian lines work as they should.
The best way to move around is by walking, to immerse yourself, and discover as many hidden gems as possible. Furthermore, traffic is pretty heavy most of the time.
Another swell option is to rent a public bike, as designated lanes can be found along Reforma and Juarez Avenues, as well as the circuit that surrounds the Zocalo.
Five metro (subway) and two Metrobus stations are located in the Centro Histórico perimeter.
Best Time to Visit Downtown Mexico City Center
The best time to visit downtown Mexico City depends on your vacation goals.
Centro Historico is great year-round, but weather and special dates make it change from one month to another.
If you want to see Jacarandas blooming, March and April are the best months.
For Independence Day patriotic celebrations, mid-September is the time, while the end of October and the first days of November are perfect for Day of the Dead fans.
Of course, December is a jolly time to visit, as the city livens up even more than usual.
The dry season runs from mid-October to the first days of May, so expect some rain if you plan your stay from May to October.
Showers last for a couple of hours at most, usually in the afternoons, so they shouldn’t dampen your vacation.
Downtown Mexico City Travel Tips
📌 Book accommodations in advance, especially during special holidays such as Independence Day, Day of the Dead, and Christmas.
📌 Pack layers of clothing, as the weather varies as the day unfolds.
📌 Enjoy all the traditional Mexican foods like tamales, pozole, tacos, quesadillas, and mole.
📌 Walk and bike as much as you can, as downtown Mexico City has many hidden gems to be discovered.
📌 Visit the markets. Ciudadela, Jamaica, and San Juan are all great, each with its own style.
📌 Make it a point to carry cash with you. Although most formal businesses will take debit and credit cards, many street vendors and small businesses are cash only.
📌 Always be alert for pickpockets and scammers. Always keep your belongings within sight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mexico City Historic Center Known For?
Authorities report a whooping 1,500 historic constructions.
As for highlights, the Zocalo main plaza. Torre Latinoamericana, Alameda Central Park, the National Palace, and the Metropolitan Cathedral are the most iconic.
What is the Meaning of Centro Historico?
In Mexico City, the words take on a special meaning, as the site has housed the central power buildings since the founding of the Aztec Empire’s capital in 1325, then taken by the Spanish conquerors, and finally, the Mexican Republic after the independence and up until today.
Around 1,500 historical buildings standing in the area, including former palaces, churches, and homes that have been turned into museums and businesses.
How Big is the Historic City Center of Mexico City?
It contains 9,000 buildings, 1,550 of which have been declared of historical or artistic importance. For this reason, it is a designated World Heritage Site.
Most of the historic buildings in the Centro Historico were built between the 16th and 20th centuries, and together they encompass the remains of Tenochtitlan and the capital city built by the Spaniards after the fall of the Aztec Empire and the conquest.
What is the Most Important Plaza in Mexico City?
Surrounded by some of the most iconic buildings in the country, this huge plaza is constantly bustling with cultural and political events.
Protests, campaign rallies, Day of the Dead parades and “ofrendas”, massive boxing classes, the President’s Independence “grito” … you name it.
There is always something going on in Plaza de la Constitución, which is the Zocalo´s official name.
Is it Safe to Stay in Downtown Mexico City?
As with all districts that are popular with tourists, security and vigilance are provided, as long as you take the precautions recommended for all major cities in the world.
Stay in reputable hotels and hostels, avoid dark alleys, and keep your belongings in sight all the time, with valuables properly stored in a hotel safe or reception desk.
Be alert for pickpockets and scammers, including those that offer a place on a Zocalo terrace with exaggerated insistence – they are known to grossly overcharge.
There are many nice, popular terraces in the area, with no need to “fish” for customers at their doorstep.
Why is the Historic Center of Mexico City and Xochimilco Important?
Both of them are present testimonies that speak loudly about the capital’s millenary past.
Xoxhimilco, which means “where the flowers grow” in Nahuatl, has been an important agricultural and flower-growing center since pre-Hispanic times when farmers built special plots of land called chinampas on the surface of Lake Xochimilco.
Xochimilecos inhabited the area even before the Aztecs arrived, and they still preserve some of the farming on Lake Tricks developed by their ancestors.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Xochimilco today is a favorite tourist spot because of its colorful boats floating on the canals, where visitors can enjoy delicious Mexican antojitos, have a few beers, and sing along with a mariachi on board.
Other attractions in Xochimilco are their delicious ice cream, served in a variety of regular and unique flavors, and the historical San Bernardino the Siena Church.
Centro Historico has a huge historical, political, economic, and cultural value because it has been the center of power for several civilizations.
The Mexicas – Aztecs, Spanish conquerors, and the republican governments that surged after the Mexican independence. More than 1500 historical buildings remain standing today!
Wrapping Up: Downtown Mexico City
Mexico City is a sensory and cultural experience like no other, with the Centro Historico being the best place to immerse yourself in the beauty and history that define this remarkable city.
Get ready to discover the hidden gems and treasures that await you in downtown Mexico City, a place where the past, present, and future converge to provide an unforgettable and enriching experience.
Before You Go…
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