Top 5 Things To Do In Mexico City

While Mexico’s coastal cities typically get the lion’s share of attention from travelers, people are picking up on Mexico City’s charm. This high-elevation mega city is home to countless wonders, from whimsical art districts and storied museums to baroque cathedrals and ancient Aztec ruins. Its array of things to do and vastly different neighborhoods make the city a great choice for solo backpackers and families alike. While you could easily spend weeks exploring the city, here are the top 5 things to do in Mexico City to add to your itinerary.

Mexico City Bike Tour

Want to see and learn more about Mexico City in a shorter amount of time? This Mexico City Bike Tour offers a fun, immersive look at the city. You’ll peddle your way through 500 years of CDMX history while learning about architecture, culture, and food from a knowledgeable and professional local. This unique local perspective is invaluable, and you’ll come to better understand and appreciate Mexico City as you explore its storied streets.

Know Before You Go:

Everything you need to enjoy the day is provided for you, including bikes, lunch, and security.
Have niños in tow? Kids ages six and up are welcome to join.
Clear your schedule: This tour typically runs about 3.5 hours.

Teotihuacan and The Basilica Of Guadalupe Tour

Want to take a deep dive into Mexico City’s archeological, architectural, and spiritual history? This whirlwind tour explores some of the area’s most awe-inspiring sights, from the remains of an ancient city at Plaza de las Tres Culturas to the Guadalupe Basilica complex — the world’s second most visited Catholic attraction. The experience caps with a tour of the ancient and mysterious city of Teotihuacan, where you’ll gawk at towering pyramids and taste one of the oldest drinks in Mexico, Pulque.

Mexico City Activities Teotihuacan Pyramids

Know Before You Go:

Staying in Mexico City? Good news! This tour can pick you up from your Airbnb or hotel. Just make sure you’re staying in one of the specified pick-up areas.
Lunch is not included in the price of the tour, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities in Teotihuacan to try the local cuisine.
Plan for a full day — this tour runs eight hours.

Coyoacan Food Tour

Coyoacan is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Mexico City, known for its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and old-time Mexico feel. Frida Kahlo also lived in this neighborhood for many years, and visitors can tour her old house, La Casa Azul — also known as the Frida Kahlo Museum. But for all Coyoacán has to offer, what stands out is the abundance of unique eats in this area. To truly get to know all the fares of Coyoacan, take a food tour. You’ll walk the neighborhood’s streets as you try Coyoacán’s best churros, tacos, paletas, and more.

Mexico City Activities Food Tour

Know Before You Go:

Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do some walking on Coyoacan’s cobbled streets.
Don’t forget the sun protection if you choose a daytime tour.
Come hungry! You’re going to want to try everything in sight — and then some.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Seeing the Teotihuacan Pyramids from the ground level is inspiring as it is. But seeing this ancient site from above — in a hot air balloon, no less — is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Not only will you soak in the unforgettable views of Teotihuacan from above, but your local guide will also share the legends of these mysterious temples with you.

Know Before You Go:

Most hot air balloon rides last between 30 minutes to an hour and include a guided tour of Teotihuacan.
This experience is 100% worth it!

Shop at Ciudadela Market

The Ciudadela Market is the most colorful market in Mexico City. This mercado is the go-to place for travelers to buy traditional Mexican handicrafts like textiles, ceramics, and art. Artisans from around Mexico travel here to sell their handcrafted goods. Whether your budget is big or small, Ciudadela Market is the place for authentic shopping in Mexico.

Mexico City Activities Shopping At Ciudadela Market