Curator’s statement
Mexico City truly took me by surprise. I had heard such amazing things about the city, but once I arrived, it was somewhere I didn’t want to leave, and I was already planning my next visit before I’d even gone home. I was there during Formula 1 race weekend, which made for an incredible experience. We spent a full week in the city, perfectly balancing race events with time to explore everything Mexico City has to offer. The race also coincided with the lead-up to Día de los Muertos, and the city was beginning to come alive with marigolds and festive decorations. Between the food, the people, and the overall atmosphere, Mexico City left a lasting impression, and it is a destination I truly recommend to everyone.
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Things to do in Mexico City
Frida Kahlo Museum
Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul): A visit to Frida Kahlo’s iconic blue home offers an intimate look into her life, art, and personal story, and it is a must for art and culture lovers. She lived such an interesting life and made such beautiful art, and it was incredible to learn about her life.
Coyoacan Market: Located just steps from Casa Azul, this lively local market is perfect for sampling traditional snacks, browsing handmade goods, and soaking in the neighborhood’s charm. You must have lunch or a snack at the market—the food stalls are amazing.
Xochimilco Party Boats: A colorful and festive experience where you cruise the canals on traditional trajineras with music, drinks, and friends, offering a fun and uniquely local way to spend an afternoon. A must-do if you’re with a group who enjoys music and a good time.
Formula 1 Grand Prix: Experiencing the Mexico City Grand Prix is electric, even for non-racing fans, with incredible energy, passionate crowds, and a city that fully embraces race weekend.
Teotihuacán Pyramids: A half-day trip just outside the city, where you can explore one of Mexico’s most impressive ancient sites and climb the Pyramid of the Sun for amazing views.
Nightlife in Mexico City (a must)
Dancing at Patrick Miller: A legendary dance club known for its high-energy ’80s and ’90s music, drawing a devoted crowd and offering one of the most fun, unpretentious nights out in the city.
LooLoo & Essex: Trendy, upbeat spots perfect for a late night of dancing; especially popular with a stylish, local crowd.
Departamento: A creative, intimate space that blurs the line between art gallery, bar, and club, often hosting DJs, live music, and cultural events.
Café Paraíso: A relaxed, late-night café and bar that’s ideal for winding down with drinks, conversation, and a more laid-back atmosphere.
Places to eat & drink in Mexico City
Panaderia Rosetta
Madre Cafe: A beautiful, airy café in Roma known for fresh, seasonal dishes, great coffee, and a relaxed neighborhood vibe that’s perfect for breakfast or a casual lunch.
Panaderia Rosetta: One of Mexico City’s most famous bakeries, offering exceptional pastries and breads with European influence; arrive early for favorites like the guava roll or almond croissant, and be ready to order when you get there because there are so many people!
Lalo!: A laid-back, design-forward café serving simple, well-executed breakfasts and lunches, popular for its unfussy menu and excellent people-watching. Order the pancakes.
Blanco Colima: A chic, multi-level restaurant blending Mexican and Mediterranean flavors, ideal for a polished dinner or cocktails in one of its stylish dining rooms. The restaurant is an old, restored home, and the waiters will give you a tour after dinner.
Galanga: A contemporary Thai restaurant that has some of the best Thai food I’ve ever had outside of Thailand—a great choice when you want something different from Mexican cuisine.
Taqueria Orinoco: A late-night favorite serving Northern-style tacos with house-made flour tortillas, known for classics like chicharrón and trompo.
Tacos del Valle - Roma Norte: A casual, no-frills taquería specializing in flavorful tacos and quesadillas, perfect for a quick, satisfying local bite.
Maizajos: A maize-focused eatery celebrating heirloom corn and traditional Mexican techniques, with excellent tacos and antojitos.
Handshake Speakeasy: A world-class cocktail bar hidden behind an unassuming entrance. Named the number-one bar in the world in 2023, it's known for meticulous mixology, extreme presentations, and an intimate atmosphere.
Need to know
Be sure to leave room in your suitcase for shopping. Mexico City is filled with incredible vintage stores, unique perfumeries, and jewelry shops you will want to explore.
Lean into street tacos whenever you can. Some of the most authentic and memorable meals in the city come from casual taquerías and street stands.
For getting around, public transportation works well during the day, while Ubers are an easy and reliable option at night.
Make time to hop between cafés and coffee shops. The city’s café culture is strong, and it is one of the best ways to experience different neighborhoods at a relaxed pace.
If you can, build in flexibility to your schedule. Mexico City rewards wandering, whether that means lingering over a long lunch, discovering a hidden courtyard, or following a local recommendation.
Travel Advisor
Julia Maynard
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Mexico City page.