Things to do in Mexico City

Landmark · Cuauhtémoc

One of the world's great main squares, ringed by the Metropolitan Cathedral, the muralled National Palace and the Aztec Templo Mayor.

Local tip: Visit Templo Mayor early, then go up to a plaza rooftop terrace (e.g. the Gran Hotel) for the classic Zócalo view.

Nature · Miguel Hidalgo

A vast city park with a hilltop castle and the world-class Museo Nacional de Antropología.

Local tip: The Anthropology Museum alone needs half a day — go Tuesday to Friday to dodge the weekend crowds.

Neighborhood · Coyoacán

A cobblestoned, bohemian southern barrio: Frida Kahlo's Casa Azul, leafy plazas and churros-and-coffee weekends.

Local tip: Book Casa Azul tickets online days ahead — weekends sell out and the on-site queue is brutal.

Neighborhood · Cuauhtémoc

Tree-lined Art-Deco streets with the city's best cafés, mezcalerías and restaurants — nomad central.

Local tip: Brunch around Plaza Río de Janeiro, then walk the leafy Avenida Ámsterdam loop (a former horse-racing track).

Culture · Xochimilco

Pre-Hispanic canals where you cruise on brightly painted trajinera boats with food, music and mariachi.

Local tip: Go with a group, bring your own snacks and drinks, and agree the per-hour boat price before you board.

Food · Centro

A legendary gourmet market famed for exotic ingredients and stand-up seafood and quesadilla counters.

Local tip: Come hungry at lunch — vendors hand out generous tastings, and the prepared-food stalls are the move.