Three Days in Mexico City: The It Girl’s Guide

Today is about soaking in the city’s most aesthetic neighborhoods. Roma Norte, Polanco and Condesa are three places you can’t miss. This is where leafy boulevards, Art Deco buildings and Parisian-style cafes meet Mexican flair. Pro tip: I highly suggest booking your hotel in one of these neighborhoods if you’re looking for a hip, trendy vibe.

Tres Tonala

Start the morning with a brunch at Tres Tonala (served Fridays through Sundays). This Parisian-inspired restaurant not only offers an amazing atmosphere for Instagram photos, but has food that’s actually good.

Parque Mexico

Next, take an afternoon stroll through Parque Mexico, a posh park located in Condesa. This may very well be one of my favorite parks in the world. It’s an oasis of beautiful trees, sculptures and fountains. Surrounding the parks, you’ll find a ton of cafes and street vendors selling everything from esquites to fresh coconut.

Shopping

After your stroll, enjoy a late afternoon shopping break in Roma Norte — home to a plethora of unique boutiques and thrift shops. For second-hand luxury pieces, you have to check out Irene Buffa.

Expendio de Maiz Sin Nombre

End day one at this cool concept restaurant, also located in Roma Norte. This outdoor eatery has no menus. Instead, they will bring you food until you tell them to stop. There are up to 14 possible dishes, all focusing on local Mexican tradition with a contemporary twist. Pro tip: get there early and secure your spot as they do not take reservations. You may have to wait for up to two hours, and I suggest leaving to grab a drink at La Lavanderia.

No trip to Mexico City is complete without exploring the artistic icons. This it girl itinerary is more than just your typical museum visit — here’s how to make it a vibe.

Frida Kahlo & Coyoacán

The Frida Kahlo Museum is a must on any CDMX itinerary. This tiny museum provides an inside look at her life, story and artistic inspiration. Pro tip: Tickets book fast so you’ll want to reserve a spot at least two to three weeks in advance.

Personally, I think the best way to get a feel for her life and story is to take a small-group bike tour. The bike ride around the neighborhood combined with the oral history of Coyoacán and Frida’s place in it really sets the tone for your museum visit. Plus, you’ll get churros and tostadas!

If time permits, I highly recommend checking out some smaller and contemporary galleries like Mooni or Latinou in Roma Norte or Galleria Enrique Guerrero in Reforma.

Toledo Rooftop

When you're done exploring, catch the sunset at one of the most beautiful rooftops in the city. This particular rooftop provides 360-degree views of the city and amazing craft cocktails in a bohemian setting. I highly recommend the Jekyll and Hyde cocktail for something that feels classically Mexican without being a margarita.

Diego Ramen

Don’t limit yourself to only eating Mexican food in CDMX. The international food scene is quite impressive. Diego Ramen will not disappoint for a yummy dinner after a long day of diving into art and culture. Pro tip: Arrive early as lines can get long and they don’t take reservations. Still worth it!

You can’t leave Mexico City without a visit to one of its world-class museums and some fine dining. Day three is all about diving into history, culture and cuisine.

National Anthropology Museum

This is the most-visited museum in Mexico City — and for good reason. Even if you’re not typically a museum goer, this is definitely worth the visit. Here, you’ll take a journey through the development of humankind and Meso-American subcultures. Pro tip: Due to its sheer size, the museum hardly ever feels crowded despite its popularity. Budget at least three to four hours for this experience.

Mexican Folklore Ballet

If you’re in town on a Wednesday or Sunday, it is definitely worth checking out a performance of the Mexican Folklore Ballet at Palacio de Bellas Artes in the city center. A night at the ballet is an excellent way to explore Mexican culture through its performance art.

Animal St. Regis

One of the top-rated restaurants in the city and a great way to end your trip to Mexico City on a high note. Their menu features a blend of Japanese omakase and steakhouse favorites in an upscale setting. A total vibe.