Mexico City Guide

Written By Kayla Chance

Mexico City is a destination that seamlessly weaves together its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern urban flair. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, savoring delicious cuisine, or immersing yourself in the local art scene, the city offers a captivating journey that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler. My first visit to Mexico City blew me away and I was pleasantly surprised by the number of activities available, incredible food scene and overall cleanliness for such a large city (the population is nearly 9 million people!). If you’re timid to plan a trip to CDMX, I recommend pairing it with a familiar destination like Cancun or Cabo on the frontend of your trip, that way you get a couple days of city and culture followed by relaxing beachside. The Mexico City International Airport has nonstop flights from many U.S. cities and is the perfect gateway to exploring other areas of Mexico with plenty of domestic flight options.

A few things to know about Mexico City before you go:

  • It’s the largest city in North America so expect heavy traffic at peak times. While the airport is close to downtown, budget at least 1 hour to get there.

  • The best neighborhoods to stay in as a tourist are the Reforma, Condesa, Roma Norte, and Polanco. I personally love the Reforma and Condesa.

  • The exchange rate is great for Americans, one USD = approx. 17 pesos however don’t expect deals everywhere you go. Most high-end restaurants and hotels are priced according to American travelers.

  • Many travelers are weary of the food and water in Mexico. The same rules apply as other areas of the country, stick to bottled water when possible and don’t eat food off the street or at sketchy looking restaurants. If you’re concerned about a place, ask your hotel concierge!

  • CDMX hosts F1and parades/festivals for Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) over Halloween weekend. Expect higher rates and crowds during these times.

Hotels

Neighborhood is everything when it comes to hotels in CDMX. Traffic gets bad throughout the day so it’s easiest to walk during peak times. Uber is reliable, cheap and fairly trustworthy, but avoid taking random taxis unless ordered by the hotel.

Contact me to book any of these hotels to receive exclusive Embark amenities like complimentary upgrades, hotel credits, etc.

  • Four Seasons Mexico City - My absolute favorite hotel in CDMX, it has that “wow” factor and sense of place that you’re really in Mexico City. The focal point of the hotel is their fabulous courtyard which is regularly decorated for special events. Regardless if you’re staying at the hotel, you must drop into their bar 50 Mils, it’s rated a “Top 50 Bar in the World.”

  • Ritz Carlton Mexico City - The newest addition to the luxury hotel scene, this high rise hotel offers amazing views of Chapultepec Park. This is a good mix of business and leisure travelers with an amazing bar and modern rooms.

  • Sofitel - A beautiful mid-range option in the Reforma neighborhood.

  • The W - A trendy, mid-range option in the Polanco neighborhood with a rooftop bar.

  • Colima 71 - New boutique hotel focused on Mexican art with contemporary design and suite style rooms good for longer stays.

Restaurants

CDMX has one of the hottest dining scenes in the world with up-and-coming chefs moving in droves to open restaurants here. If you think Mexican food is the only option, you’ll be surprised to see many unique, trendy restaurants from French-Mexican to Italian that are highly regarded. One of my favorite things about Mexico City is the focus on desserts and pastries, there are many delicious and cheap panaderías where you can enjoy churros and pan dulce (sweet bread). Here are some of my favorites:

  • Blanco Colima - overall amazing vibes in a historic building with a retractable roof that will open on nice evenings. More of a high-end restaurant perfect for foodies.

  • San Angel Inn - Beautiful Mexican dining in a former monastery with alfresco tables around a fountain.

  • El Moro Churreria - One of the best! Several locations around the city

  • Panaderia Rosetta - Cute spot for morning coffee and pastries

  • Lardo - French-Mexican fusion with pizzas and more. Very affordable and elevated.

  • Eno - Cute local spot great for lunch right by the Four Seasons

  • Niddo - Cafe with beautiful pastries and patio space

Activities

The city is full of amazing activities that will keep you busy between meals! Some of the big ones should be planned as day trips and totally worth it. Must-dos in my mind include the hot air balloon over the Teotihuacán Pyramids and a boat ride through Xochimilco's floating canals. Being in the city for Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) is an incredible experience and it surpassed my expectations! It’s definitely worth adding to your bucket list, but plan several months in advance. You can find makeup artists in the city that can dress you and paint your face in traditional

Kayla Chance
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