Mexico City Travel Itinerary: A 5-Day Guide for First-Time Visitors
Mexico City is a sprawling, vibrant metropolis steeped in history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you’re drawn to its ancient ruins, world-class museums, or dynamic neighborhoods, this itinerary will guide you through the city’s must-see attractions.
It is perfect for first-timers, but you may find it helpful even if it’s not your first time in Mexico City. In fact this 5-day plan balances iconic landmarks and local experiences that you may haven’t tried yet.
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Mexico City Travel Itinerary Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center
Morning
Start your journey at the heart of the city, the Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución). Explore its iconic landmarks:
- Metropolitan Cathedral: Admire the grandeur of Latin America’s largest cathedral.
- National Palace: See Diego Rivera’s murals depicting Mexico’s history.
- Templo Mayor: Discover the ruins of the Aztec temple and its museum.
Read more about Mexico City downtown in my detailed posts for more ideas.
Afternoon
Walk to Alameda Central, a lush park near the Palacio de Bellas Artes, an architectural masterpiece housing art exhibitions and a beautiful interior. For lunch, head to Casa de Toño for authentic Mexican food or Azul Histórico for a more upscale experience.
PRO TIP – For a spectacular views of the Bellas Artes you should go up to the cafee at the Sears commercial center or a bit further away but with spectacular 360° views over the city go up to the Torre Latina.
Evening
Stroll down Madero Street, a lively pedestrian thoroughfare with shops and street performers. End the day with dinner at Café de Tacuba, a historic eatery known for its traditional dishes and charming decor.
If you prefer to have a guided tour downtown, you can choose from different options. See below
Mexico City Itinerary Day 2: Art and Culture in Coyoacán and San Ángel
Morning
Begin your day in Coyoacán, a charming neighborhood full of history and art. Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul) to learn about her life and works. Wander the cobblestone streets and explore the local markets for souvenirs and snacks.
Afternoon
Head to San Ángel, another quaint neighborhood, especially vibrant on Saturdays with the Bazaar Sábado, an artisan market. Enjoy lunch at San Ángel Inn, a historic hacienda-turned-restaurant with a beautiful garden setting.
Evening
Return to Coyoacán for a relaxing evening. Treat yourself to churros and hot chocolate from El Jarocho, a local favorite, while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Day 3: Teotihuacán Pyramids and Roma Norte/Condesa Neighborhoods
Morning
Take a half-day trip to Teotihuacán, home to the iconic Sun and Moon Pyramids. Climb to the top for panoramic views and a sense of awe at this ancient city. For an unforgettable experience, consider a hot air balloon ride over the pyramids.
Below, I have some suggestions for tours.
Afternoon & Evening
Return to Mexico City and take a stroll in the coolest neighborhoods of Roma Norte and Condesa. Roma Norte and La Condesa are two of Mexico City’s most vibrant neighborhoods, celebrated for their rich cultural scenes, historic architecture, and dynamic atmospheres.
Roma Norte
Roma Norte is has been designated a “barrio mágico” (magical neighborhood) in 2011, known for its bohemian vibe and eclectic mix of architectural styles, including Art Nouveau and Neoclassical designs.
Among the things to do in Roma Norte
- Stroll Through Tree-Lined Streets: Wander along avenues like Álvaro Obregón and Orizaba to admire historic mansions, boutique shops, and vibrant street art.
- Visit Plaza Río de Janeiro: This charming square features a replica of Michelangelo’s David and serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
- Explore Mercado Roma: A contemporary food market offering a variety of gourmet eateries, artisanal products, and craft beers. Or you can check out my guide on the best restaurants in the area.
Top Museums:
- MODO – Museo del Objeto del Objeto: A unique museum dedicated to design and communication objects, showcasing a vast collection of everyday items.
- Casa Museo Guillermo Tovar de Teresa: Once home to a renowned Mexican historian and art collector, this museum offers insights into early 20th-century Mexican art and culture.
La Condesa
Adjacent to Roma Norte, La Condesa is characterized by its Art Deco architecture, lush parks, and a trendy culinary scene.
Things to Do in La Condesa
- Relax in Parque México and Parque España: These neighboring parks provide serene environments with fountains, walking paths, and are popular spots for dog walkers and joggers.
- Dine at Chic Cafés and Restaurants: Experience a diverse array of dining options, from traditional Mexican eateries to international cuisines, reflecting the neighborhood’s cosmopolitan flair.
- Shop at Local Boutiques: Discover unique fashion pieces and artisanal goods in the area’s numerous independent shops.
Both Roma Norte and La Condesa offer a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making them must-visit destinations for those exploring Mexico City’s cultural landscape.
Mexico City Itinerary Day 4: Chapultepec Park and Polanco
Morning and Afternoon
Spend the morning in Chapultepec Park, a sprawling green space. Visit the Chapultepec Castle, a historic hilltop palace, and the National Museum of Anthropology, which houses a stunning collection of artifacts from Mexico’s rich past.
Keep in mind that the National Museum is huge and you may need more than one day to visit it all. Maybe you can choose a few rooms and move on to discover other gems of the city. In case you are staying more than a day and you are interested in Mexican Pre Colombian History you may want to dedicate one full day to the museum.
Evening
Explore Polanco, an upscale neighborhood known for its boutique shops and cozy cafes. Indulge in a fine dining at Pujol (reservation is required).
Polanco is an affluent neighborhood in the Miguel Hidalgo borough of Mexico City, renowned for its luxury shopping, upscale dining, and cultural institutions. Often referred to as the “Beverly Hills of Mexico,” it boasts one of the country’s highest concentrations of high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and luxury hotels.
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You can also check out my detailed SafetyWing review and comparison table in this post.
Key Attractions in Polanco:
- Avenida Presidente Masaryk: This avenue is Mexico’s most expensive street, lined with luxury boutiques such as Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Chanel, making it a premier shopping destination.
- World-Class Restaurants: Polanco is home to acclaimed dining establishments, including Pujol, which ranked 5th in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2022.
- Cultural Institutions: The neighborhood houses significant cultural sites like the National Museum of Anthropology and the Museo Tamayo, both located within Chapultepec Park, which partially falls within Polanco’s borders.
- Parks: Parque Lincoln serves as a central green space in Polanco, featuring a notable clock tower that has become a neighborhood symbol.
Further consideration
Adjacent to Polanco is “Nuevo Polanco,” a burgeoning business district that hosts corporate offices and cultural venues such as the Museo Soumaya and the Colección Jumex. While not officially part of Polanco, this area is often associated with it due to their proximity and shared amenities.
Safety in Polanco
Despite its upscale reputation, Polanco has experienced isolated security incidents. In September 2024, a violent event involving a suspected narcotrafficker occurred in the area, prompting concerns among residents and authorities.
Overall, Polanco remains a vibrant and essential part of Mexico City’s cultural and economic landscape, offering a blend of luxury, culture, and history.
Day 5: Xochimilco and Final City Highlights
Morning
Experience the lively canals of Xochimilco by renting a traditional trajinera (colorful boat). Float along the waterways while enjoying music and snacks from floating vendors.
Here are some organized tours to Xochimilco to make your trip safer and easier.
Afternoon
Visit the UNAM campus, home to impressive murals, including the iconic Central Library, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stop for lunch nearby to refuel.
Evening
Spend your final evening in La Condesa, a neighborhood known for its bohemian vibe. Unwind at a casual eatery or enjoy drinks at a rooftop bar to toast your Mexico City adventure
Additional Tips about Your Mexico City Itinerary
- Best Times to Visit: Mexico City is enjoyable year-round, but spring (March-May) offers pleasant weather.
- Getting Around: Use Uber or the Metro for affordable and convenient transportation. Walking is great for exploring neighborhoods.
- Safety Tips: Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid wandering off tourist paths late at night. In the Metro station avoid empty areas and keep an eye on your bag, always.
Here Below, find some items that you may want to consider to keep you safe.
Mexico City Itinerary: Final thoughts
Mexico City offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity. This 5-day itinerary ensures you experience the city’s highlights while leaving room for personal exploration. Have you visited Mexico City? Share your favorite experiences or tips in the comments below!
