Things to do in Mexico City

Why go to Mexico City

• Teotihuacán Pyramids

  Climb the massive Pyramid of the Sun at one of the ancient world's most awe-inspiring archaeological sites, just an hour from the city center.

• Museo Nacional de Antropología

  Home to the Aztec Sun Stone and priceless pre-Columbian artifacts, this is arguably the finest archaeology museum in the Americas.

• Palacio de Bellas Artes

  A breathtaking Art Nouveau and Art Deco palace showcasing Diego Rivera murals and world-class opera and ballet performances.

• Xochimilco Floating Gardens

  Drift through ancient Aztec canals on colorful trajinera boats surrounded by mariachi music, food vendors, and festive locals.

• Chapultepec Castle

  A hilltop 18th-century castle with sweeping city views, imperial-era rooms, and murals by Siqueiros, sitting inside Mexico's largest urban park.

Good to know in Mexico City

• The Metro is one of the world's best deals at about $0.30 USD per ride, use it for nearly everything; buy a rechargeable card at any station to avoid lines.
• Tipping is customary: 10% at sit-down restaurants is standard, 15% is generous; tip street food vendors $0.25-0.50 if you're a regular at a stall.
• Do not drink tap water, always buy bottled or use a filtered jug from your accommodation; most hotels and Airbnbs provide garrafones for free or at minimal cost.
• The Museo Nacional de Antropología and Chapultepec Castle offer free entry on Sundays for Mexican nationals; foreigners still pay, but many smaller INAH sites are free every Sunday for everyone.

Trip essentials