Caution October 19, 2023

Worldwide caution, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Mexico Travel Advisory

Travel advisory august 22, 2023, see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates, and the removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links.

Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

  • Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Guerrero state  due to  crime .
  • Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
  • Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
  • Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

  • Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Durango state  due to  crime .
  • Guanajuato state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
  • Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Morelos state  due to  crime .
  • Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

  • Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
  • Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
  • Chiapas state  due to  crime .
  • Coahuila state  due to  crime .
  • Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
  • Mexico City  due to  crime .
  • Mexico State  due to  crime .
  • Nayarit state  due to  crime.
  • Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
  • Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Queretaro state  due to  crime .
  • Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
  • San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
  • Tabasco state  due to  crime .
  • Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
  • Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

  • Campeche state
  • Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

  • Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
  • Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
  • Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
  • Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
  • Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
  • Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
  • Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

  • Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
  • Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Chiapas state.

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

  • Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

  • U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
  • Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
  • City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
  • U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
  • U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
  • U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
  • U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
  • Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
  • Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

  • Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
  • Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

  • Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
  • Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

  • West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state.  Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

  • Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

  • Taxco:  U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

  • Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
  • Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

  • Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
  • Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
  • Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

  • Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
  • Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations.  Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. 

While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders.  Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

  • Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
  • Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

  • Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
  • Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
  • Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
  • Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
  • San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
  • Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo.  In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

  • Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
  • Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

  • Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
  • U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

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Home » North America » Mexico City

Is Mexico City Safe for Travel? (TOP Safety Tips 2024)

After 3 trips and more than 12 months today travelling around this glorious country, I was finally convinced to go to Mexico City. To my great surprise, I stayed for one whole month. And as a self-proclaimed city-hater, I fell deeply in love with this magical place.

The reputation of Cuidad de México (or CDMX) as a ‘safe’ place isn’t a good one. Of course, like all major cities, it’s no stranger to crime. 

Combine that with the occasional natural disaster and a huge population, you’re probably asking “Is Mexico City safe?” or “How dangerous is Mexico City?” You may also be wondering, is it even worth visiting? 

Mexico City is an amazing assault on the senses. Bustling, beautiful, and bold, the Mexican capital has astonishing experiences waiting for travellers. From Aztec ruins and opulent palaces to a whole galaxy of tasty street food to try!

I want to assure you, staying safe in Mexico City is absolutely possible . Thousands of people are doing it right now. 

But some safety tips and street smarts will go a long way. From solo women travellers to the up-to-date travel advisory, here’s your one-stop shop Mexico City safety guide.

Laura smiling sat in the shade in front of the sign for Frida and Diego at the Blue House Casa Azul

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Mexico City Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Mexico City.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated December 2023

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Is Mexico City Safe to Visit Right Now?

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The short answer is yes , it is safe to visit Mexico City. However, I must also make it clear that you MUST be careful at all times. There are certain things you need to be aware of while visiting Mexico City to ensure you have a safe trip. Mexico city recorded 4,204,414 international visitors by 2022 according to Gobierno de Mexico tourism with majorly trouble-free visit.

The city’s historic center, or Centro Historico , is an amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site, complete with a cathedral, palace, and the largest square in the Americas – the Zocalo. But just like Mexico’s safety , the city isn’t considered super safe. 

At least, I can’t send you there outright without mentioning some reasons for concern. The current Mexico travel advisory from the USA remains ‘ exercise increased caution ‘. This big, bustling city may be the economic center of Mexico but… there are higher levels of petty crime and violent crime in Mexico City compared to other major cities.

An example of some of Mexico City's amazing architecture.

Natural disasters also affect the city’s safety. Earthquakes are common and unpredictable in Mexico City.

But I want to put your mind at ease: despite its bad reputation, Mexico City sees millions of tourists every year. The vast majority of these visiting Mexico City do so completely safely. 

Gang-related violent crimes are rarely targeted at tourists and visitors. Plus, that happens in certain neighborhoods of Mexico City that you probably won’t be visiting.

Mexico City also has one of the highest police officer-per-resident ratios in the world. So security is taken very seriously in touristy areas where violent crime is extremely rare.

Though, like most major cities, these areas are where petty theft will occur. Thieves are usually active around busy touristic areas.

It’s safe to visit Mexico City, but show caution as you go. So how do you do that? Let me take you into a little more detail.

Check out our detailed where to stay guide for Mexico City so you can start your trip right!

Safest Places in Mexico City

When traveling to a monster city like Mexico City, it is invaluable to know a little bit about the safe areas to stay in before you arrive. Beyond being much safer, certain areas are just much more fun and well-connected. 

Generally (and this rule applies to many areas of Mexico as a country), more tourists mean it’s safer. Well-lit tourist areas, with lots of police officers, mean lower crime rates. 

The following areas are also pretty safe to walk around at night too. Though if you are moving between areas, please don’t walk.

One of Mexico City's many sites of ruins.

  • Centro Historico – the city’s historic center is home to several historic buildings and a veritable shit ton of museums, this is where the city was first founded. While wandering the pedestrian-only streets, violent crime is extremely rare – though pickpockets and petty crime are still rife. 
  • Coyoacán – the more chill and open barrio of Mexico City and once home to Frida Kahlo, this neighborhood is very visitor-friendly. 
  • Roma Norte – the center of art and quirky culture in Mexico City, Roma Norte has a unique feel. There are a plethora of bars, restaurants, and cafes to wander between but it is full of bloody hipsters because it’s the coolest place to stay in Mexico City.
  • La Condensa – with wide avenues and well-maintained European-style buildings, this neighborhood attracts many young professionals and travelers. It also has a thriving nightlife scene.

Dangerous Places in Mexico City

Now to the “not-so-nice” areas that you should avoid while in Mexico City. Some people may refer to them as the “ dangerous areas of Mexico City ” and they wouldn’t necessarily be wrong. There’s very little reason for you to go to these non-tourist areas anyway, but it’s always good to have a rough idea.

I recommend the following as places to avoid in Mexico City:

  • ANYWHERE at night: I can’t stress this enough. As mentioned above, there are some select places that are okay to be in at night. But if you’re moving between places, absolutely exercise increased caution with public transportation. Or, just get an Uber. Ask your accommodation about the local area, like if it’s okay to walk back from the closest Metro station for example. 
  • Iztapalapa: Especially if you’re a female traveler (but I’m absolutely discouraging any other sexes too), avoid this area completely. Most rapes and assaults have been recorded in this neighborhood.
  • Tepito: This area is right outside the historical center and is famous for petty theft and pickpocketing. Known to be the black market of Mexico City, you can do some budget shopping in Tepito, but leave all your valuables at home.
  • Others: Tlalpan, La Lagunilla, Mercado Merced, Doctores, Ciudad Neza, Xochimilco, and Tlatelolco – do not visit these areas alone or without a local guide!

Keeping your money safe in Mexico City

 One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.The best solution? Get a money belt.

Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Like many places, traveling safely requires more than pure luck. It’s important to clue yourself up with travel safety tips for Mexico City. 

This is not an extensive list: you should remain vigilant and have your wits about you at all times. But here are some pointers that will help you out. 

Mexico City Metro

  • Blend in – try and look like someone who knows what they’re doing, even if you don’t.
  • Get an eSIM card for Mexico – this helps with lots of things.
  • Don’t look rich – expensive jewelry, iPhone 14 Plus in hand, nice camera… all things that thieves want.
  • Watch out on public transport – Pickpocketing is the most common crime in Mexico City. Use a money belt to keep some cash hidden .
  • Ask about areas to avoid – there are dangerous areas in Mexico City.
  • At night, DON’T walk – especially when intoxicated and/or alone.
  • Further to that, ONLY take official taxis – Ubers are the safest in Mexico City. 
  • Remember the emergency number – 911. 
  • Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
  • Be careful near roads – Look both ways, twice. Drivers can be reckless. 
  • Learn Spanish – you don’t have to be fluent but even a bit will go a long way. 
  • Only use ATMs in the daytime – inside shops or banks.
  • Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
  • Steer clear of people trying to scam you – distraction techniques, luggage helpers, petitions etc. (More info coming on scams in Mexico City.)
  • Don’t resist if someone tries to rob you – having no phone or watch is better than no life.
  • Get an Earthquake App – this will alert you.
  • Carry ID – even a copy. Police can ask for this and if you don’t have it, you can be detained.
  • Stay away from drugs – the source of many problems in Mexico. It’s better for everyone to save it for another time. 
  • Get good travel insurance !
  • Don’t be consumed by dangers – but be aware. 

An American tourist jumping in front of some cool architecture.

Yes, you can travel to Mexico City solo. Though, Mexico City is not exactly the safest place in the world .  

And by yourself, you’re going be a bit more of a target. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t go alone. Follow these tips and you’re setting yourself up for a great time.

  • Make friends . There’s safety in numbers. 
  • Stay in busy, well-lit areas . When there are people around, a mix of locals and tourists, it’s always a good sign. 
  • Choose a top-rated hostel . Stay in popular tourist neighborhoods. You won’t be short of choice in Mexico City. 
  • Let people know your travel plans . Ideally, friends and family back home. At the very least, someone you can trust nearby. 
  • Stay vigilant of your surroundings. This basically goes double for a solo traveler in Mexico . Petty crime is common in the tourist areas and metro of Mexico City.
  • Don’t get too drunk . Don’t lose yourself. 
  • Plan your way home before you leave . Especially if you’re coming back after nightfall. 
  • Plan where you’re going beforehand . Don’t go walking into neighborhoods you know nothing about. Plan an itinerary and stick to it.
  • Keep money in different places and have an emergency credit card . Always have a backup.
  • Chat with the staff at your hostel or guesthouse . Ask them for their tips and recommendations (and practice your Spanish).
  • Know your limits . Rest as you need to, sleep well, and know when to call it a day.

Generally, just be sensible. Exploring Mexico City is a great way to push yourself out of your comfort zone , but at the end of the day, your safety is always paramount. So don’t push yourself too much!

Solo female traveler roaming Mexico City's streets.

Yes, Mexico City is safe for solo female travelers . I don’t want to scare you, because you are a strong, independent woman. Many solo female travelers go to Mexico City all the time, and have a great experience! 

But it’s my duty to make you *aware* of some safety concerns that solo women face in this enormous powerhouse of a city. I have debated this situation long and hard and – depending on who you ask – you will have a completely different answer. 

Unfortunately, not all solo female travelers in Mexico City are or feel safe at all times. But there are many things you can do to maximize your safety!

  • Trust your spidey senses! – if your gut says something is wrong then it probably is. 
  • Check out good hostels for women – read reviews, make friends, and share experiences and tips. Use female-only dorms if you prefer.
  • Make use of female-only transport – not essential but it may make you feel safer. Taxis, buses, trains, and metros all have female-only areas.
  • Dress accordingly – Mexico is still a relatively conservative country. I love breaking boundaries but this is not the time or place. Observe what other women are wearing and follow suit.
  • Again, DO NOT WALK HOME ALONE AT NIGHT – there’s way more to do in daylight hours anyway.
  • Don’t leave your food or drink unattended – spiking occurs.  
  • Don’t open the door for anyone – the hotel or hostel will let in other guests. It’s not your job. 
  • Be aware of dangers, but don’t get consumed by them .   Try to stay rational.
  • If someone bothers you, LET EVERYONE KNOW ! Should it loud and make a fuss.
  • You don’t have to be polite – or answer questions, or tell the truth. Saying “no” is always okay too!

Historico Centro

Centro Historico

With lots of historical landmarks, great shop and beautiful architecture, Centro Historico is an amazing neighborhood to visit.

Yes! Mexico City is safe to travel for families. It’s actually pretty kid-friendly too, considering it’s one of the world’s major cities.

There are loads of museums and parks, filled with families. Basically, there’s a ton of stuff to get involved with – starting with street vendors selling tasty churros, of course.

Though, walking around with strollers isn’t very easy at all. The city is often crowded and surfaces are uneven. And don’t expect to find many baby-changing facilities – except in chain restaurants and museums.

The sun is very strong here though too. Being at a high altitude, even when it doesn’t feel too hot, the UVs are still beating down hard.

Following the other safety tips above, Mexico City is a safe place for families to visit.

A parent with his kids in Mexico City.

So first, no standard driver in Mexico City has done any kind of formal driving instructions or test. So now imagine the chaos and danger that can cause. Always exercise increased caution around the roads – because they really aren’t paying attention to red lights, one-way streets, pedestrians… you get the picture. 

For that reason, I absolutely DO NOT recommend driving in Mexico City. That’s the end of that. 

A mad man driving a rocket car.

Okay, so how do you get around Mexico City safely?

Well, your best option is the Mexico City Metro. The metro carries 5 million passengers a day with 12 lines and 195 stations. 

It’s the second biggest in North America, after NYC. It’s cheap, it works well enough, and it’s (usually) the fastest way to get about. You get a Metro card from any station for 15 pesos (about $0.80 USD) and each ride costs 5 pesos (about $0.30 USD). 

Though be aware: pickpockets are VERY active. Harassment also occurs, ranging from people just asking for money to more serious offenses (which are more uncommon).

Like most places in the world, taxi drivers are a bit shit. Be aware of taxi scams (more info coming up) which again range in the seriousness of offenses. They generally just love to hike up the prices. 

ONLY use official taxis. Ask at your accommodation where your nearest Sitio is. 

DON’T hail taxis on the streets. Better yet, opt for Uber or Didi . 

Uber is safe in Mexico City and actually a much better option. It’s cheaper, you have all the details of the driver recorded, and you can track your journey. 

The buses work well if you have some patience. All kinds of buses run across the city.

Generally, public transport in Mexico City is safe but very busy.

In the big city, you should be prepared for scams. Knowing about these really changes your experience of safety in Mexico City. The scale varies from common scams that will just be a minor inconvenience to larger-scale scams. 

Here are some things to look out for: 

  • Taxi scams – ranging from overcharging tourists to express kidnapping. Taxis have also been known to take people hostage and force them to take money from ATMs. This is why I stress: only use official taxis or a trusty taxi app like Uber .
  • Fake ATMs – if you want to avoid having your card and/or pin number stolen, only use official banks. 
  • Sauce scam – a mysterious liquid lands on you and a *friendly* stranger comes over to assist… and take your phone and wallet. 

If anyone seems overly friendly or asks too many personal questions, I would regard this as suspicious. Remember, you owe people nothing. 

How safe Mexico City is sometimes just comes down to luck. Always prioritize your safety and don’t feel bad to dismiss people at any time.

Zocalo - a example of Mexico CIty's great architecture.

Like almost all major cities, unfortunately, crime happens in Mexico City. It varies a lot, but tourists are absolutely susceptible to (uncommon) violent and non-violent crimes. 

By following usual safety protocols, and exercising increased caution – as I recommend for anyone traveling anywhere – it’s very unlikely these crimes will affect you. This is only to make you aware of what could happen. 

The most common crime in Mexico occurs in the form of petty crime, such as pickpocketing – which happens mostly on public transportation and the Mexico City Metro. This is easily avoided with basic safety precautions and common sense.

Violent crimes do happen but they aren’t common. Kidnapping is rare , but not impossible. 

This is more avoidable by not looking rich. The richer you look, the higher someone would expect a ransom. Men are not exempt from this – so don’t think that this comes down to gender either.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Mexico City without…

nomatic_laundry_bag

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Gifts for backpackers

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim eSIM

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

GEAR-Monoply-Game

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Pacsafe belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

To maximize your safety in Mexico City, getting good travel insurance for Mexico is essential. If things go wrong, and they can, this is your guardian angel.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

american tourist mexico city

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

For a travel destination like Mexico City, there are lots of different things you have to consider when it comes to safety. We’ve listed the most common question, answers, and facts to make your trip as easy as possible.

What areas should you avoid in Mexico City?

Iztapalapa and Tepito are areas you should avoid in Mexico City, especially as a female traveler. Tepito is the black market and can be safe, but a lot of pickpocketing is happening here.

Is Mexico City safe to live in?

Yes, Mexico City is safe to live in. But make sure you do thorough research into the safest areas of the city to stay in. Centro Historico is one of the safest areas in Mexico City. Roma and Coyoacán are great too.

Is the water in Mexico City safe to drink?

No, tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico City. Unfortunately, water safety is not up to scratch. Stick to bottled water which you’ll find at your accommodation or any shop, anywhere.

Is it safe to walk at night in Mexico City?

No, walking around at night is not safe in Mexico City. If possible, only travel by taxi after dark. If you go out, make sure to stick with a group of friends instead of walking around alone.

This article is not designed to scare you away from this wonderful city. With the correct precautions and attitude, Mexico City is safe for foreigners, American tourists, solo women, families, and anyone else who wants to visit!

Despite all of these crazy things to think about, I would absolutely encourage you to go. Because that’s the point of Mexico City. It’s chaotic. It’s noisy and boisterous and loud and one of the most exciting cities on the planet. 

When you’re using your common sense and travel smarts, going to Mexico City is just as safe as anywhere else. If you’re backpacking Mexico already, don’t skip over this magical city. You’ll find I would recommend these safety tips for almost anywhere on the planet: exercise increased caution, stay in your lane, trust your gut, and prioritize your safety at all times. Besides that, you’re in for one hell of an experience. 

Once you’ve stepped foot across the threshold, you understand why people are attracted to visit Mexico City. You’re dropped into the middle of a mighty city with ancient history, deep culture, and insane food. 

Don’t forget your 911 emergency number. Oh, and get that travel insurance before you go. Then, of course, keep an extra eye on your stuff on the metro.

But once you’ve mastered the Mexico City Metro, you can pretty much call yourself an experienced traveler. Plus, if you can take on Mexico City, you can take on anywhere. The world is your oyster! 

Two traditional 'muertos' on a balcony in Mexico City.

Looking for more info on traveling to Mexico City?

  • Let me help you choose where to stay in Mexico City
  • Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
  • Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
  • Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
  • Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Mexico City travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

american tourist mexico city

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Updated June 2023

Laura Hall

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10 Comments

Just got back from Mex City. I’m in my 60s. Polanco during the day was very nice to walk through. No hassles. Advice: always use Didi or Uber to travel, Always! it’s Cheap & safe. always use caution crossing streets, drivers never give way to pedestrians. If you are white, you will be a target for sellers and beggars constantly. You will also be followed/shadowed at times by pick pockets. If someone is over friendly or on the other hand seems too quiet, you need to be concerned. Other than Polanco and Roma Norte during the day, you have to walk with caution at all times. I have relatives there so I’m rarely alone. Mexico is wonderful with fantastic people. Unfortunately there is a very small group of criminals who target other Mexicans and especially foreigners.

To Cynthia, I can sure you “echar una paja” is used in Spain.

Please make your research and do not invent stuff and mislead people: There are NO hurricanes in Mexico City. It is a city with 2,250 m above sea level, surrounded by mountains and in the middle of the country. There has NEVER been a hurricane in Mexico City.

Hello, I think the writer, in this case, was making the point that harsh weather taking place outside of Mexico City still has the potential to affect the weather/rain in the capital. We were not suggesting in any way that Mexico City experiences (or ever has) actual hurricanes. cheers!

Is it safe to visit the Mexico City now-November to December?

November is a very popular time to visit Mexico City. All we’d say is exercise the usual travel precautions as outlined in our guide.

Amigo maybe you want to correct the phrase for ‘no straw please?’ In Mexico we don’t say ‘paja’ but ‘popote’. In Spain ‘paja’ means straw.. In Mexico it means j*r* off.

My daughter and myself would like to visit Mexico City for the Festival of the Dead. Will it be sort of save if keeping your tips in mind. No commitment from your side – only opinion please. thanks.

Most visits end trouble free, common sense and wise decisions are a must. Note that the larger crowds at DOD will likely attract criminals, unguarded valuables etc will be easy picking.

The best place to be for the Day of the Dead is Pátzcuaro Michoacán

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mexico City

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger spends months each year in Mexico, and visited Mexico City most recently in 2023.

Mexico City is, in a word, magic. The capital of the country of Mexico, Mexico City (or Ciudad de Mexico) is a swirl of gorgeous architecture, art museums, fabulous restaurants, and hotels — all set on streets that drip with centuries of history.

The Palace of Fine Arts

The city sits at an altitude of more than 2,200 meters in the Anáhuac Valley, wreathed in mighty mountain ranges — just have a look at the two snowcapped volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, which stand guard in the distance.

Mexico City is one of the largest and most exciting cities in the world . Home to more than 21 million people, it's a thriving (sometimes chaotic) capital, home to the country's top tourist attractions , including the historic city center, more than 170 museums, theater, and even a few Aztec ruins.

Discover more things to do in this vibrant city with our list of the top attractions in Mexico City.

1. Zócalo: The Birthplace of the Constitution

2. the national museum of anthropology, 3. templo mayor and the great pyramid of tenochtitlán, 4. the palace of fine arts, 5. mexico city metropolitan cathedral, 6. the national palace, 7. chapultepec park, 8. paseo de la reforma and the angel of independence, 9. national history museum, 10. coyoacán & the frida kahlo museum, 11. the basilica of our lady of guadalupe, 12. alameda central, 13. the square of the three cultures and santiago de tlatelolco, 14. the house of tiles, 15. museo mural diego rivera and museo rufino tamayo, 16. museo soumaya, 17. explore the polanco neighborhood, 18. visit teotihuacan, 19. church of san francisco, where to stay in mexico city for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to mexico city, map of tourist attractions in mexico city, mexico city, mexico - climate chart.

Zócalo: The Birthplace of the Constitution

The beating heart of Mexico City is Zócalo — the Plaza de la Constitución (Constitution Square) — where the country's first constitution was proclaimed in 1813. Measuring some 240 meters in each direction, it's one of the world's largest squares and was laid out almost immediately after the conquest of the former Aztec city of Tenochtitlán on which it stands.

In the early colonial period, the square served a variety of purposes, including as a bullfighting arena and market, while today, it's used for festivals, parades, and demonstrations.

Dominated by three of the city's most visited tourist attractions — the National Palace , the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor with its Aztec relics — Zócalo is the perfect place to begin exploring this historic city.

Hot Tip: A short stroll away from Zócalo, you can view three floors of murals by the famous artist Diego Rivera at the Secretaría de Educación Pública (education ministry). Entry is free.

Aztec Sun Calendar at the National Museum of Anthropology

One of the most important of its kind in the world, the National Museum of Anthropology lies in Chapultepec Park and is hard to miss due to the huge monolithic figure marking its entrance.

Built in 1964, this strikingly successful example of contemporary architecture is famous for its magnificent displays of old Indian art treasures, most notably in the Central Patio, part of which is roofed by a gigantic stone shelter supported by an 11-meter-tall column with waterfalls symbolizing the eternal cycle of life.

As spectacular as the building itself is its vast collection, which includes archaeological finds from extinct Indian cultures along with details of the lifestyles of contemporary Indian inhabitants of Mexico.

Other highlights include the National Library of Anthropology , founded by Lucas Alaman in 1831 and developed by Emperor Maximilian, which boasts more than 300,000 rare volumes.

Address: Av Paseo de la Reforma y Calzada Gandhi S/N, Chapultepec Polanco, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Templo Mayor and the Great Pyramid of Tenochtitlán

Despite the widespread destruction after the defeat of the Aztecs, a number of their important historic sites have been unearthed and put on display in recent years. The most important site is Templo Mayor, home to the remains of the Great Temple of Tenochtitlán, including the first relic discovered in 1978, a finely sculpted round disc more than three meters in diameter and weighing eight-and-a-half tons.

Further excavations — including the summit platform of an earlier pyramid with well-preserved temple walls, along with the skulls of sacrificial victims — indicate the temple site had been built over by the Aztecs and their predecessors 11 times.

Templo Mayor

A highlight of a visit is a walkway past the precinct of the aristocratic "winged warriors," where remains of residences decorated with multi-colored reliefs have been unearthed, along with evidence of the original paintwork.

Hot Tip: The vast majority of relics and artifacts uncovered are housed in two museums: the Templo Mayor Museum built on the temple site, and the nearby National Museum of Anthropology , widely regarded as the most important museum in Mexico.

Address: Seminario 8, Centro Histórico, 06060 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Templo Mayor - Floor plan map

One of Mexico City's most important cultural landmarks, the Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes) is an architectural gem. Towering over the adjacent park, this massive marble building — designed by Italian architect Adamo Boari with Art Nouveau and Art Deco influences — was completed in 1934 and is so heavy that it has sunk more than four meters, despite attempts to lighten it by removing part of its huge dome.

The palace serves as an opera house and concert hall hosting a variety of traditional and international dance and operatic productions. But many visitors also come here to view the impressive murals adorning its interior by famous artists such as Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and José Clemente.

On the 4th floor is the Museo Nacional de Arquitectura with rotating exhibits on contemporary architecture.

The Palace of Fine Arts

If you happen to be in town on Wednesday or Sunday, tickets to the Ballet Folklorico are a must. For nearly 60 years, this performance has brought the traditional costumes, dance, and music from all regions of Mexico to one stage for a performance that is beyond entertaining, colorful, and beautiful.

Hot Tip : If you're able to see a performance here, you'll also be rewarded with a chance to enjoy the theater's stunning interior décor, including its spectacular glass-mosaic curtain, made by Tiffany's of New York, depicting the Valley of Mexico and its two mighty volcanoes.

Address: Juárez, Centro Histórico, 06050 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral

Dominating Zócalo Square, the massive Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana de la Asunción de María) is one of the oldest and largest churches in the Western Hemisphere. Built atop part of the old Aztec temple precinct, construction of this massive basalt and grey sandstone structure began in 1525 and extended over 250 years.

In spite of the two neoclassical towers and certain other features, the façade creates a predominantly Baroque impression with its massive twisted columns. Standout features are the bell towers added in 1793 and the statues of Faith, Hope, and Charity on the clock tower, dating from 1813.

Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral

The cathedral's interior also shows a mingling of styles, with particular highlights being the richly carved Altar of the Kings (Altar de los Reyes) from 1739, with its superb devotional painting of the Assumption (Asunción de María) to which the cathedral is dedicated.

Also of interest are a chapel containing the remains of Mexican Emperor Agustin de Iturbide, and the crypt with its tombs of many of the city's archbishops, among them Juan de Zumárraga, the great teacher of the Indians and the first incumbent of the see.

Address: Plaza de la Constitución S/N, Centro, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Cathedral of Mexico City (Catedral Metropolitana) - Floor plan map

Occupying the east side of Mexico City's main square, Zócalo, the immense National Palace (Palacio Nacional), built of reddish tezontle stone and boasting a 200-meter-long façade, is the official residence of the president.

Built on top of an Aztec palace, it was the seat of the Spanish viceroys during the colonial period and has been much altered and enlarged over the years. One of the oldest and finest buildings in the city, it includes such notable features as the Freedom Bell , rung on September 15th, 1810, at the start of the War of Independence (it's rung on the anniversary of this event each year).

The palace boasts many handsome rooms laid out around its 14 courtyards, some accessible to visitors, the most notable being the arcaded Grand Courtyard with its fine frescoes depicting the country's rich history. Don't miss The History of Mexico mural by Diego Rivera, which adorns the grand staircase.

English-language guided tours explore a museum, a number of large halls, and the parliamentary chamber in which the Reform Constitution of 1857 was drawn up (it and the Constitution of 1917 are on display).

Other attractions here are the State Archives , with important historical documents, and the Biblioteca Miguel Lerdo de Tejada , one of the country's largest libraries.

Address: Plaza de la Constitución S/N, Centro, 06066 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Chapultepec Park

Bosque de Chapultepec is Mexico City's principal park, and covering an area of more than four square kilometers, it is also its largest. Once a stronghold of the Toltecs, it was here in AD 1200 that the Aztecs settled, and according to legend, laid out a park in the early 15th century.

Over time, the hill became a summer residence of the Aztec rulers with water from its springs conveyed to the temple precinct in the capital by means of an aqueduct, the remains of which can still be seen in Avenida Chapultepec. Portraits of the Aztec rulers were carved on the slopes of the hill, remnants of which can still be seen.

These days, the park is popular for its lakes, sports facilities, botanic garden, and museums — you'll find both the National History Museum and the National Museum of Anthropology here — along with numerous fun events, including concerts and theatrical performances.

Also of interest is the Museum of Modern Art (Museo de Arte Moderno), which opened in 1964 and is important for its retrospective look at Mexican art before and during the colonial period and its collection of pictures and sculptures by Mexican artists of the 19th and 20th centuries.

The Chapultepec Zoo is also here with a surprising diversity of animals from around the world.

Paseo de la Reforma and the Angel of Independence

The principal east-west traffic artery of Mexico City, Paseo de la Reforma extends for 15 kilometers from Tlatelolco to the residential district of Las Lomas but is best known for the stretch from Avenida Benito Juárez to Chapultepec Park .

Here, this attractive boulevard widens to 60 meters with a pleasant green strip in the middle containing busts and monuments to numerous national heroes. While now largely known as a busy entertainment and shopping area, this magnificent avenue - laid out during the reign of Emperor Maximilian - is home to a number of important attractions, most notably the massive Independence Monument (Monumento a la Independencia), also known as "El Angel" for the figure of a winged goddess of victory standing atop its tall 36-meter column.

In addition to its fine statues of the heroes of the country's independence movement is the Mausoleum, with its many skulls of some of the country's most important historical figures.

On Sunday mornings, Paseo de la Reforma closes to cars to become a pedestrian and cycle-friendly thoroughfare. It's one of the best things to do for residents of all ages. You may even find a pop-up yoga class happening in the street.

Address: Paseo de la Reforma y Eje 2 PTE, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

National History Museum

Another of Mexico City's world-class attractions is the National History Museum (Museo Nacional de Historia). Housed in the 18th-century Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec), on a site once occupied by Aztec buildings and later by a Spanish hermitage, the museum opened in 1944 and is home to an impressive collection of pre-Columbian material and reproductions of old manuscripts, as well as a vast range of exhibits illustrating the history of Mexico since the Spanish conquest.

Highlights include arms and armor, documents, maps, and plans of the Conquest period and its immediate aftermath; ceramics, clothing, jewelry, and coins from three centuries; relics and souvenirs of the struggle for independence and the revolutionary wars; portraits of leading figures in Mexican history; and a number of state carriages, including those used by Benito Juárez and Emperor Maximilian.

Also of interest are the apartments occupied by Maximilian and Charlotte, decorated in neoclassical style and containing furniture brought from Europe. The castle also offers beautiful views over the city.

Address: Castilla de Chapultepec 1a Sección, Mexico City, CDMX, Mexico

Coyoacán & the Frida Kahlo Museum

Laced with atmospheric cobblestone streets, Coyoacán is one of Mexico City's oldest neighborhoods. Take time to stroll around the maze of laneways here and explore the hidden plazas, colonial-style mansions, and art-filled old churches like San Juan Bautista.

You can also sample exotic fruits and vegetables at the markets. One of the top tourist attractions in the town is the Frida Kahlo Museum in La Casa Azul (The Blue House), where the famous Mexican artist was born and where she frequently returned throughout her life. Here, you can view some of her most important paintings, as well as works by her famous husband, the mural artist Diego Rivera, and personal items from the couple's life. Note that it's best to purchase tickets in advance.

An easy way to see all the highlights of Coyoacán is on the full-day Mexico City Super Saver Tour . This 11-hour excursion begins with a guided tour through the neighborhood, including a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum and North America's oldest university, as well as a boat tour along the canals of the UNESCO-listed ecological reserve, Xochimilco.

While you're in Coyoacan you can also visit the Museo Casa de Leon Trotsky . This is the house where Leon Trotsky, the exiled Russian politician, spent the final years of his life before he was assassinated.

Address: The Frida Kahlo Museum, Londres 247, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Said to have attracted its first pilgrims when it opened in 1531, the Roman Catholic Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe) attracts millions of visitors and worshipers each year, particularly during the Feast Day each December 12th.

Built adjacent to the hill where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared, the site consists of a complex of buildings overlooking a broad public square adorned with a number of interesting modern sculptures, including a large concrete cross with a unique clock and chime.

Highlights include a splendid altarpiece dedicated to Mary in the 16th-century Old Basilica, and the new Basilica de Guadalupe, built in 1976, and notable for its distinctive modern curved appearance.

Address: Plaza de las Américas 1, Villa de Guadalupe, 07050 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Alameda Central

Alameda Central, a shady and beautifully kept park with many splendid fountains and sculptures, was laid out in 1592 on the site of a once-busy Aztec market. It remains a bustling location to this day, especially at Christmas, when it is beautifully illuminated and decorated. Next to the park is the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes , which hosts music and theatrical performances as well as important art exhibitions.

Address: Av Hidalgo S/N, Cuauhtémoc, Centro, 06010 Ciudad de México

The Square of the Three Cultures and Santiago de Tlatelolco

Another of Mexico City's important historic squares is the Square of the Three Cultures (Plaza de las Tres Culturas). The square occupies the site of the main square of the Pre-Columbian town of Tlatelolco and the scene of the last desperate stand by the Aztecs in 1521 - an event remembered by a memorial tablet.

It takes its name from its interesting mix of buildings from three different periods: Aztec pyramids and temples, a Spanish church, and modern tower blocks. In addition to the principal pyramid, other Aztec remains include a number of smaller pyramids, platforms, staircases, walls, and altars, as well as a "tzompantli," a wall of skulls and fine reliefs of Aztec calendar signs.

The square is also home to a rather sobering memorial museum, Memorial 68, commemorating the tragic murder of some 250 protesting students by government forces in 1968.

Also of note is the Baroque church of Santiago de Tlatelolco , built in the early 17th century on the site of a small chapel from 1535 that belonged to the Franciscan convent of Santiago. Adjoining the church is one of the old convent buildings, formerly the Colegio Imperial de Santa Cruz, in which the Franciscans taught the gifted sons of the Aztec nobility (one of the most notable teachers was Bernardino de Sahagún, the great chronicler of the history of New Spain).

The House of Tiles

Opposite the picturesque Church of San Francisco is the spectacular House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos). It was originally built in 1596 and boasts a façade decorated by the Conde del Valle de Orizaba 150 years later, with exquisite blue and white tiles from Puebla.

It became even more famous after artist José Clemente Orozco painted murals on the walls of the staircase in 1925. The House of Tiles is now a restaurant and an evocative venue to dine al fresco in the building's spectacular courtyard, surrounded by what is one very large work of art.

Hot Tip : Be sure to check out the large photo marking the spot where Emiliano Zapata and Pancho Villa dined together on arrival in Mexico City.

Address: Av Francisco I. Madero 4, Centro, 06500 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Museo Mural Diego Rivera

A short walk from the National Museum of Anthropology is Museo Rufino Tamayo, named after Rufino Tamayo (1900-91), one of Mexico's most famous painters. Notable for its unusual interior, the gallery opened in 1981 and, in addition to Tamayo's artwork it also displays his own extensive collection of several hundred works by contemporary artists, including prints, paintings, sculptures, and wall hangings.

Another important art facility worth visiting is Museo Mural Diego Rivera named after one of the country's leading artists whose most famous painting - Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Park - in which he caricatured some of Mexico's historical figures, is on display here after years of being banned by the state (Rivera had originally called it Dios no existe , or God does not exist ).

Address: Paseo de la Reforma 51, Bosque de Chapultepec, 11580 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Museo Soumaya

A trip to Mexico City would be incomplete without a visit to the Museo Soumaya . This futuristic, architectural mind-meld was founded by Carlos Slim, one of the wealthiest men in the world, who named it for his deceased wife, Soumaya. Inside is more than 66,000 pieces of art that span 3,000 years, from sculptures from Mesoamerica right up to works from Tintoretto and Salvador Dali.

The non-profit cultural icon originally was housed in the Plaza Loreto of San Angel until 2011. It was moved to a new building in Plaza Carso in Nuevo Polanco, designed by Mexican architect Fernando Romero. The silver, reflective building spans 170,000 square feet of space and is a design feat in itself, pinched at the center like an hourglass, but angular like the hull of a ship.

But the real masterpieces continue inside. The majority of art is from the 15th to 20th centuries, though there is a substantial collection of indigenous Mexican art. Slim is the owner of the world's largest private collection of Auguste Rodin's art, as well, and the museum has the largest collection of casts of his sculptures outside of France.

Address: Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, Granada, Miguel Hidalgo, 11529 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Sunrise in Polanco, Mexico City

When it comes to the original "in vogue" destination in Mexico City, Polanco is at the top of the list. This swanky, glitzy, expensive neighborhood has always been about high style, fine dining, and fabulous hotels. Within the neighborhood are countless shops and restaurants, as well as a corner of Chapultepec Park .

If you're looking for one of the most up-scale destinations in Latin America, Polanco certainly takes the lead. The neighborhood's main artery is the Avenida Presidente Masaryk , which is often likened to the 5th Avenue of Mexico City. It's easy to see why when you see art gallery after art gallery, fine dining after fine dining, shopping malls, and gorgeous hotels.

Start at the Antara Fashion Hall , where you'll find all the brand names, from Hugo Boss to Carolina Herrera. You can also visit the Siqueiros Public Art Room, where muralist David Siquieros hosts workshops, talks, conferences, and exhibitions. You can also pop into Chapultepec Park for a lovely little afternoon picnic.

In the evening, snag a reservation at the legendary Pujol restaurant before heading to the Telcel Theatre for a Spanish-language performance of one of the Broadway greats.

Teotihuacan

Perhaps one of the most culturally and historically significant sites in Mexico City, the archeological zone at Teotihuacan tells so much of the story of the birth of Mexico.

The ancient site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , was settled around 400 BCE and rose to be one of the most powerful cities in the region. It is still a mystery how the city came to be, but several theories exist surrounding earlier tribes that could have contributed to the city's growth. In the 15th century, the Aztecs claimed the city, naming it Teotihuacan.

Today what remains of Teotihuacan's eight square miles are 2,000 single-story apartment compounds, pyramids, temples, and palaces. It is known for its iconic Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon. The Pyramid of the Sun is the largest structure in Teotihuacan and faces west, measuring roughly 720 feet by 760 feet.

Priests at Teotihuacan were known to practice human and animal sacrifice. In fact, archeologists discovered 18 sacrificial victims buried around some of the temples, including the Pyramid of the Moon.

Today visitors can explore Teotihuacan on their own or as part of a tour. The archeological site is just 30 miles outside Mexico City.

Church of San Francisco

Along Madero Street (the street that leads to the Zocalo), you'll find the stunning Church of San Francisco. It's directly across the street from The House of Tiles. This beautiful, historic convent was once at the heart of a sprawling church and monastery complex. Today, all that remains is the church.

Still, what remains is a spectacular site to behold. Just look at the beautifully carved doorway, which dates back to the 18th century. The reddish bricks that you see to the right are stones that were used originally to build the Aztec buildings that once made up Moctezuma's private zoo.

When first constructed, the church was one of the earliest and most powerful Franciscan monasteries in the city. It also held the first 12 Franciscan friars who arrived in what was then "New Spain."

The church that exists today is actually the third to be built here and dates back to the early 18th century. Services are still held today.

Address: Av Francisco I. Madero 7, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

If you're traveling to Mexico City for the first time, the best area to stay is in the historic city center (Centro Histórico de la Ciudad). This UNESCO World Heritage Site centers around the Zócalo, with the Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace, and Templo Mayor.

The affluent Polanco neighborhood, also makes a great base, with its luxury hotels and upscale restaurants. It's about a 30-minute drive from the Centro Histórico, but near all the attractions of Chapultepec Park and the famous shopping street, Paseo de la Reforma. Here are some highly rated hotels in these convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

  • If you like grand historic hotels, the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico in the Centro Histórico has affordable rates and an unbeatable location, within walking distance of the major historical attractions and with a rooftop terrace overlooking the Zócalo.
  • A dazzling stained-glass ceiling caps the elegant lobby. In the quieter Polanco neighborhood, a short stroll from Chapultepec Park, JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City features a full-service spa and outdoor pool.
  • Near Polanco and just a short walk to the Chapultepec Castle, the St. Regis overlooks Paseo de la Reforma and occupies a sleek modern building with contemporary decor to match.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • A 10-minute walk to Zócalo, near restaurants and shops, the boutique Historico Central , in a beautifully restored 18th-century building, blends history with modern decor and thoughtful added touches such as artisan soaps.
  • Also in a historic building is the Hampton Inn & Suites Mexico City - Centro Historico , featuring a gorgeous stained-glass ceiling. It lies within walking distance of the Zócalo, Alameda Cathedral, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes.
  • The name says it all when it comes to location at the Zocalo Central , in an elegant building dating from the late 19th century. Some rooms score a bird's-eye view over this famous square.

Budget Hotels:

  • Near the Palacio de Bellas Artes, a 20-minute walk from the Centro Histórico, the good-value One Ciudad De Mexico Alameda has clean, compact rooms and free breakfast.
  • A few blocks from Paseo de la Reforma, Hotel Bristol is popular for its friendly service and comfortable rooms, while the modern City Express Plus Reforma El Angel is a short cab ride away from the historical center.

Taking an organized tour is the best way to see Mexico City's top attractions and a convenient way to enjoy day trips to surrounding sites. Guided tours save you time navigating the city's traffic-clogged streets, plus you can learn about the history and culture of the city. These sightseeing tours all include expert guides, entrance fees, and round-trip transportation.

  • Coyoacán, National University, and Frida Kahlo Museum: Mexico City's art, history, and nature are covered on the full-day Mexico City Super Saver Tour . This 11-hour excursion begins with a tour through the cobblestone streets of the evocative colonial city of Coyoacán, including a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum and National University. Top off your city sightseeing adventure with a relaxing boat tour along the canals of the UNESCO-listed ecological reserve Xochimilco.
  • Teotihuacan Pyramids: On the eight-hour Early Morning Teotihuacan Pyramids Tour , you'll be one of the first visitors to gain access to this UNESCO-listed archaeological park. Better still, a private archaeologist guides you through the top sites, including the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl, Sun Pyramid, and Moon Pyramid. After exploring these ancient temples, the tour takes you to an obsidian workshop to see local artisans at work.
  • Iztaccihuatl Volcano: Avid hikers can enjoy spectacular views of Popocatepetl and the Valley of Mexico on the Iztaccihuatl Volcano Hiking Tour from Mexico City . This 12-hour tour includes a hike up the intermediate trail of this dormant volcano, stopping short of the 5,230-meter summit to admire the panorama.

Mexico City Map - Tourist Attractions

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Mexico Travel Guide

Mexico City   Travel Guide

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Courtesy of Torresigner | Getty Images

american tourist mexico city

Why Go To Mexico City

Mexico's capital is one of the liveliest and largest cities in the world, with a renowned arts and culture scene (an entire district was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and some of the best cuisine in the Western Hemisphere. Even better, Mexico City is affordable – and safer than you might expect of a city its size. It promises visitors an unforgettable stay, perfect for the frugal, culture-loving traveler who feels at home in a large, crowded place. If you want the full experience, some say you should spend at least a week in the city so that you'll see most of the historic and popular sights. Even after a week, you'll find plenty more to explore. In short, it's best to plan extensively before diving in.

Founded in 1325 as Tenochtitlan, the city was colonized by the Spanish in 1521 and later dubbed "Mexico." Today, at nearly 500 years old, its pre-colonial history is alive throughout much of the modern-day capital. The city is overflowing with opportunities to study the country's rich and conflicted past. But it's also one of the most densely populated cities in the world, and although it does grapple with common urban problems like crime and pollution, many neighborhoods – including Condesa and Polanco – are as safe as any city in the United States or Europe. To experience this bustling metropolis with the help of a local, consider signing up for one of the best Mexico City tours .

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  • # 2 in Best Cheap Mexico Vacations
  • # 12 in Best Places to Visit in Mexico for 2023

Best of Mexico City

Best hotels in mexico city.

  • # 1 in Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City
  • # 2 in The St. Regis Mexico City
  • # 4 in Las Alcobas, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Mexico City

Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City

Best Things to Do in Mexico City

  • # 1 in Museo Nacional de Antropología
  • # 2 in Bosque de Chapultepec
  • # 3 in Palacio de Bellas Artes

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Popular Tours

Hot Air Balloon Flight over Teotihuacan, from Mexico City

Hot Air Balloon Flight over Teotihuacan, from Mexico City

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Balloon flight with pick up in CDMX + Breakfast in a natural cave

Balloon flight with pick up in CDMX + Breakfast in a natural cave

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Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine, Tlatelolco & Tequila Tasting Tour

Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine, Tlatelolco & Tequila Tasting Tour

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from $ 49.50

Mexico City Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Mexico City is between March and May, even though the streets are pretty crowded this time of year. Your trade-off is beautiful weather, especially considering the city's winters can be chilly and the summers can be rainy. You'll want to prepare yourself for the high elevation – Mexico City sits about 7,382 feet above sea level – by drinking plenty of water, slathering on sunscreen and taking it easy (and limiting alcohol intake) your first few days. Another thing to keep in mind: Mexico City's air pollution is notoriously poor, so on days when the pollution is the worst you'll likely want to travel with a mask and relegate yourself to indoor activities.

Weather in Mexico City

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

You're high in the sky The city is more than 7,000 feet above sea level, so you can expect a tougher time breathing, and maybe sleeping, for the first few days. Try not to exert yourself in the thin air and limit the amount of alcohol you consume. Also drink plenty of water.

And speaking of water You've probably heard it before, but let us reiterate, you should never drink from the tap in Mexico. Most hotels have lots of bottled water on hand.

You're not at the beach Many people associate Mexico with the balmy temperatures of the coast – but Mexico City has a temperate climate. Pack some long sleeves and anticipate chilly evenings, even in summer.

Enlist the help of a local Whether you want help navigating the local food scene or are hoping to plan a day trip to  Teotihuacán , a guided tour can help you make the most of your time in Mexico City.

How to Save Money in Mexico City

Take public transportation  We really can't stress enough that driving would be a mistake. Plus, riding the bus or the metro costs less than $1.

Stay in the city center  Also known as the Centro Histórico, this part of town is close to the key sights (so you'll spend even less on transportation), and it has the lowest hotel rates.

Try  comida corrida  Or the three- or four-course lunches that many restaurants serve at a fixed price.

Culture & Customs

Mexico has a vast and varied history that still impacts its culture today. The culture blends native traditions and beliefs of the Mesoamerican natives (largely Aztec in the capital) with customs brought by the Spaniards, plus a great sense of pride brought by Mexican independence in 1810 and the Mexican Revolution in the early 20th century. 

Spanish is the official language of Mexico and is universally spoken in Mexico City and throughout the country. But Mexico has a still-vibrant indigenous tradition, and more than 100 Native American languages remain alive in the country. One of the most popular indigenous languages in Mexico is Nahuatl, which is spoken by about 1.5 million people in Mexico. Because the city is a business and tourist hub, it caters to travelers who speak a variety of languages – including English – meaning you should have little trouble communicating.  

Typically in Mexico, women greet each other with a pat on the arm or shoulder, while men shake hands. Late arrivals are customary – and even considered polite – at most gatherings. Keep in mind that it's not advised to drink the tap water, but most establishments have a large supply of bottled water. Also, if you encounter the word "gringo" (defined by a person, especially an American, who is not Hispanic or Latino), don't be offended. It's simply the only word in Spanish that describes a white person. 

What to Eat

One thing you'll find an abundance of in Mexico City is  comida  (food). After all, there are almost 9 million people to feed in the city. Chances are you're familiar with some Mexican staples, such as tacos, quesadillas and tamales. But there's more to Mexico City's culinary culture. 

You'll find that lunch (or  almuerzo ) is typically the largest meal of the day, and yours may include  cerveza  (beer) or tequila. Dinner doesn't usually take place until later at night and consists of lighter dishes. Street food is ingrained in the culture here, dating back to pre-Hispanic times. You'll likely find anything you could want at these street stalls, and even some specialties like  chapulines  (roasted grasshoppers). Several of the best tours in Mexico City are specificially designed for discerning foodies in need of a little guidance navigating the city's colorful markets.

Some foods that are unique to the Mexico City area are tacos al pastor – which includes marinated pork that's been cooked on a rotisserie (called a trompo) and thinly sliced off before being served in tortillas with onion and pineapple. Another Mexico City original is  huarache  (fried corn tortillas topped with meat, cheese, beans, potatoes, cream and salsa). Is your mouth watering yet? 

Establishments range from hole-in-the-wall mezcal bars to fine dining restaurants and everything in between. One of the best foodie neighborhoods is  Condesa , which offers popular restaurants and booming nightlife. But you could stumble upon amazing flavors all over the city. 

While some travelers fear that Mexico City is too dangerous; the city has managed to keep its distance from the drug war that has affected many other parts of the country. Still, common sense and wise precautions should be used to ensure a safe vacation. To avoid robberies in cabs, call for a " sitio " or " turismo " car from your  hotel  or hostel. These cars are registered with the government and remain very safe and affordable options for travel around the city. Some do suggest you steer clear of the yellow or green libre cabs.

Avoid carrying large amounts of money or valuables while in the city, due to high incidences of pickpocketing. Although the  U.S. State Department  warns citizens to exercise caution when traveling to certain parts of Mexico, it does not caution visitors against traveling to Mexico City. However, it is advisable to avoid any political demonstrations that are frequent in the capital city. 

Getting Around Mexico City

The best way to get around Mexico City is via Uber or a taxi. The metro is another option. Not only is it fairly clean and quick, but you can ride for approximately $0.25. Plus, most popular tourist attractions are easily accessible by train. Several different types of buses motor through the main square ( el Zócalo ) and its busiest streets – they are also an affordable option.

Taxis are slightly more expensive, but they are a hassle-free means of getting to the city center from the Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX), which is about 6 miles east of the Centro Histórico. Uber is a safe and more affordable way to navigate the city. Driving yourself is not a great idea – either to and from the airport or around town.

Entry & Exit Requirements

To travel to Mexico, U.S. residents require a valid United States passport. You must also fill out a tourist card before arrival. Tourist cards – and the accompanying fee – are usually provided by your airline. For more information entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. State Department's  site .

Beautiful gardens surround  Chalpultepec Castle .

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A tourist admiring the beautiful stained glass windows along a corridor inside Chapultepec Castle.

© Dowraik/Shutterstock

american tourist mexico city

Mexico City

A high-octane megalopolis boasting old-school cantinas, intriguing museums, inspired dining and boating along ancient canals, Mexico City is the sun in the Mexican solar system.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Mexico City. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Palace Bellas Artes

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Alameda Central

Immense murals by world-famous Mexican artists dominate the top floors of this splendid white-marble palace – a concert hall and arts center commissioned…

Fountain in the courtyard of a government building, National Palace, Zocalo, Mexico City, Mexico

Palacio Nacional

Centro Histórico

As the seat of the federal branch of the Mexican government, the Palacio Nacional (National Palace) is home to the offices of the president of Mexico and…

Torre Latinoamericana

Torre Latinoamericana

The Torre Latinoamericana was Latin America’s tallest building when constructed in 1956, and remains the dominant focal point of Centro Histórico. It's an…

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Museo Frida Kahlo

Coyoacán & San Ángel

Renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo was born in, and lived and died in, Casa Azul (Blue House), now a museum. Almost every visitor to Mexico City makes a…

The ruins of the Templo Mayor in Mexico City.

Templo Mayor

Before the Spaniards demolished it, the Aztec 'Great Temple' Teocalli of Tenochtitlán covered the site where the cathedral now stands, as well as the…

House Studio Museum of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.

Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo

If you saw the movie Frida (2002), you’ll recognize this museum, designed by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera's friend, architect and painter Juan O’Gorman…

Leon Trotsky grave with the Soviet symbol in his House Museum in Mexico City.

Museo Casa de León Trotsky

The Trotsky home, now a museum, remains much as it was on the day when one of Stalin's agents, a Catalan named Ramón Mercader, caught up with the…

Rivera's mural entitled "A Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Park," in the Museo Mural Diego Rivera in Mexico City.

Museo Mural Diego Rivera

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Xochimilco Canals

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Biblioteca de México

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Museo Soumaya

Polanco & Bosque de Chapultepec

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Museo Nacional de las Culturas

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Palacio Postal

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Ex Teresa Arte Actual

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500px Photo ID: 90987349 - Trumpet player in Mariachi band

Plaza Garibaldi

Every night the city’s mariachi bands belt out heartfelt ballads in this festive square. Wearing silver-studded outfits, they toot their trumpets and tune…

Museo Jumex in Plaza Carso, Mexico City.

Museo Jumex

Museo Jumex was built to house one of Latin America's leading contemporary art collections. Temporary exhibits draw on a collection of around 2600 pieces…

Happy 5 de Mayo

The heart of Mexico City is the Plaza de la Constitución. Residents began calling it the Zócalo, meaning ‘base,’ in the 19th century, when plans for a…

Alameda Central

Created in the late 1500s by mandate of then-viceroy Luis de Velasco, the Alameda took its name from the álamos (poplars) planted over its rectangular…

The Metropolitan Cathedral seen from the Zocolo in Mexico City.

Catedral Metropolitana

One of Mexico City’s most iconic structures, this cathedral is a monumental edifice: 109m long, 59m wide and 65m high. Started in 1573, it remained a work…

Castillo de Chapultepec

Castillo de Chapultepec

A visible reminder of Mexico’s bygone aristocracy, the ‘castle’ that stands atop Chapultepec Hill was begun in 1785 but not completed until after…

El Ángel

Zona Rosa & Reforma

The symbol of Mexico City, known as 'El Ángel' (The Angel), this gilded Winged Victory on a 45m-high pillar was sculpted for the independence centennial…

Tianguis Cultural del Chopo

Tianguis Cultural del Chopo

A gathering place for the city’s various youth subcultures – especially goth, metal, indie and punk – with most of the outdoor vendor stalls selling new…

Mexico, Mexico City. The Basilica of Guadalupe, considered to be the second most important sanctuary of Catholicism after the Vatican City.

Basílica de Guadalupe

A cult developed around this site after a Christian convert named Juan Diego claimed in December 1531 that the Virgin Mary appeared before him on the…

Planning Tools

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Things to Know

Be a better traveler with this guide to health, safety and etiquette in Mexico City.

Best Neighborhoods

Location is everything in Mexico City, and we've put together a list of the best neighborhoods that are easily walkable and full of charm and character.

While there is plenty to keep you busy in Mexico City, the central region of Mexico is filled with pueblos mágicos that are well worth your time. 

Money and Costs

If you want to visit Mexico City but have a tight budget, these practical travel, accommodation, and going-out tips have got you covered.

Transportation

Whether it's cycling, tackling the sprawling subway, or crossing the city by cable car, here is how to navigate Mexico's mighty capital.

Free Things to Do

Stretch your pesos even further with our round up of the best free things to do in Mexico City.

Spending Diaries

A detailed diary of how to book accommodation, take in superb museums and eat very well in the Mexican capital for under $500.

Traveling with Kids

Heading to Mexico City with your kids? Check out these top family-friendly activities and tips for planning your trip.

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How Safe Is Mexico City for Travel?

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico : Safety by City

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Mexico City is the capital city of Mexico, divided into 16 boroughs all of which tend to preserve some of their original and unique characteristics.

Centro Historico part of the city is where many historic colonial landmarks, and the famous Aztec Templo Mayor, can be found.

Mexico City is a metropolitan city with 26 million people living in the region and most tourists will spend the majority of their time going around the city.

Frequently visited areas of Mexico City are the Centro, the old city center, and Zona Rosa, the new business and entertainment part.

  • Warnings & Dangers in Mexico City

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

You can feel completely free in Mexico City, as long as you remain watchful and stay in the touristic areas. The crime statistics show that crime is possible and frequent in Mexico City, but tourists are rarely targeted. Pay attention when approached by some people, since they might be thieves trying to rob you. If you do not want to look like a tourist, do not wear shorts, even though it is extremely hot.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH

Because thieves operate on buses and subways, special attention should be paid if you happen to travel via the B line of the subway. The only safe taxi companies are Uber, EasyTaxi or Taxiaviso. Tourists should never catch cabs in the street. Metro is reliable and runs underground. Driving around by car is the least advised way of going around the city, due to the complicated road structure and reckless drivers. Be aware that traffic signals are not respected.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpocket risk in Mexico City is high, especially in the crowded streets. In order not to attract the attention of thieves, it is advisable not to wear expensive things around with you and avoid isolated areas. It is always a good idea to keep a copy of your passport and visa with you and leave the original in your hotel room or safe.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Mexico is prone to natural disasters and it has experienced many very strong earthquakes. Mexico City is surrounded by mountains and volcanoes, which contribute to its air pollution.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

The chances of being mugged or kidnapped in Mexico City exist and express kidnappings are usually performed by fake taxis. The best advice is that you never resist since they aim to force you to withdraw funds from your credit or debit cards, and not to injure you. However, if you resist, there might be more serious consequences.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

There is no risk of terrorism in Mexico City since it is believed that the terrorist will not attack it.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Touristic places are attractive to scammers, who may try to scam you by doing magic tricks. Unlicensed taxis are the most usual scammers, who overcharge tourists or even take part in kidnappings. Be aware that groups of strange teenagers might try to distract you, while others will take your valuables or wallets.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Mexico City is a dangerous place for women that are not watchful enough and are not experienced travelers enough. It is advisable not to walk alone at night, and always travel by the women reserved cars in the subway and train.

  • So... How Safe Is Mexico City Really?

When in Mexico City, do not be afraid if you see a lot of police force patrolling since the historic center is patrolled in the early evening for the tourists to feel protected.

Being an extremely crowded place, Mexico City is prone to pickpockets and bag snatchers so it is advised to be aware of your surroundings.

Mexicans are usually very friendly and helpful, but some will try to use this to rob you, so do not trust everyone.

Taxi robberies are frequent, but 95% of the total kidnapping victims are nationals.

Another advice is not to leave anything of value inside your car and do not try to show that you are a tourist.

One of the keys to maximizing your safety in Mexico City is to blend in.

  • How Does Mexico City Compare?
  • Useful Information

Whether you will need a visa or not when coming to Mexico depends on your nationalities. Citizens of the US, Canada, the EU, Israel, and Japan do not have to obtain it.

The Mexican Peso is the official currency of Mexico and this country is not so expensive, which makes it even more attractive for tourists. Mexico City is the most expensive city in Mexico, but still, a very cheap one compared to other metropolises in the world. ATMs can be found everywhere and it is safer to use ATMs during daylight hours and inside shops or malls.

Mexico City has a very good climate, which allows tourists to come throughout the whole year. The period from December to April is the high season. Mexico City has two seasons, dry one from November to April, and the rainy season from May to October.

Benito Juarez International Airport is the one that most travelers use when arriving in Mexico City by air. It is located in the eastern part of the city and has two terminals. There are frequent flights to and from larger cities in the world. Another airport in Toluca International Airport, 50 km southwest of Mexico City. Other major Mexican airports are in Cancun, Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Tijuana.

Travel Insurance

Before going anywhere abroad, it is advisable to invest your money in travel insurance that covers all the possible incidents.

Mexico City Weather Averages (Temperatures)

  • Average High/Low Temperature

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  • Things to Do in Mexico City for Two Whole Days
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AguasCath002

18 Reviews on Mexico City

A beautiful place.

Mexico City is a beautiful place to visit. It might not be the safest around but I personally like it very much. Been there a few times already so I know the lay of the land and know what to look out for.

Is it safe?

Can you share more from your experience of being there a few times before? I am going there for work in about 2 months, is it safe for a family with kids to visit? thanks.

Been a couple of times, never felt unsafe even when traveling outside of the city. It’s a huge city so have your wits about you and you’ll be fine. There are certain areas to avoid but that’s the case with most major cities. Food is amazing, people are very friendly…not many speak English like they do in Cancun or PVR but overall a mazing city to explore.

Feels safe if you're aware of surroundings

It felt quite safe, especially compared to other places I’ve lived like Whitechapel in East London. I went by myself for a week (I’m a young women who doesn’t look Mexican) and it was fine – I just stayed in the popular areas, visited the major museums and the big park, and only walked around Roma Norte and Condesa at night by myself (no other areas). Otherwise, after dark I took Ubers (no taxis). I dressed nicely but nothing expensive and when in doubt, kept my phone out of view. Ubers are pretty cheap there so I didn’t take the metro at all – I don’t know what that’s like. Everyone was very friendly and I enjoyed my visit.

I would just say be street smart (don’t show it or talk about it if you have money, don’t carry your passport around, don’t get drunk by yourself, don’t explore random neighbourhoods you’re not familiar with, don’t talk to random people in the street, go in a store if you need directions, wear a cross body bag that closes and not a backpack, don’t dress like an American tourist – too casual, gymwear etc.)

My only big issue was that I had a lot of stomach problems even though I only went to restaurants recommended by friends so if you have a delicate stomach read reviews before eating somewhere and take probiotic supplements before and during your trip.

Act like a local. Stay in good neighborhoods.

Mexico city is a amazing city lots of things to do And have fun. Museums. Historical places. Great Gastronomical choices. Great night life.be courteously to Mexicans. dont be arrogant. act like a Mexican. Respect the culture. And way of Life of Mexican.and you will have a great time In this great city I’m Colombian. From USA and I feel safe in Mexico than in my own country I love Mexico and the Mexican peopke🇲🇽👍😍

México city a must visit!!!

Mexico city is a beautiful City with so much to see and do. The tours from and in Mexico City are fantastic. Teóteuacan or Sun and Moon pyramid’s are a must see! The food is fantastic the people friendly! Plan a trip today. You will not be disappointed.

Should I visit?

I want to know if I should visit Mexico City or not, is it fun? are there good stuff to see? I wish I could just travel anywhere without fear, but I am concerned with all the horror stories I have heard on Mexico and drug cartels. do you think Mexico city is ok for me to visit?

Overall, I would say it is not “safe” but it is also not “unsafe”. If you stay in an area that has money, you have nothing to worry about but if you are going on a budget vacation, then you REALLY need to research where you are staying and the surrounding areas. There are lots to do, see, and plenty of great places to eat!

Most of the country (75%) is safe, most of the violence in the whole country is related to drug and is always between the cartels/gangs. Mexico City is just like any other city, it has its good and bad parts but most of them are good. Don’t be closed minded and ignorant, not the whole country is ran by cartels or violence, 50 million people visit Mexico and 99.99% of them don’t experience or see violence.

Reading this review

I get mixed feelings when reading this review, on one hand, the overall risk is medium, however, from everything I’ve heard of Mexico I always thought it was more dangerous than that, I going to go there anyway, just can’t help but feel like it might not be safe for my kids, we live in a small town where safety never felt like an issue before. any advice you can share will be appreciated, thanks!

Safe if you don’t go outside tourists hotspots

Having lived in MC for half a year when I got to explore both the good and the bad.

Areas populated with tourists are safe, you might see the occasional pickpocket but a trained eye will immediately catch it. If you travel by subway be careful when people are shoving into you, this is a go-to method to get close to you so they can empty your pockets. You can either keep your hand in the pocket where your phone/wallet is or use a waist bag, there’s a ton of cool ones now, not your usual dad waist bag. A paper copy of your id is enough, you don’t need to lug around the real deal, that’s another thing to worry about.

Avoid buying things in the street: expensive jewelry that has massive discounts to phones, you might find yourself having to go to the police station to declare how stolen goods ended in your possession. The same goes for tickets to spas or other activities, you should buy these directly from the source, not in the middle of the street.

Taxis are one of the things that annoyed me the most, they overcharge like hell and very often the conditions are awful, with unclean cars and reckless driving. We switched to uber after finally deciding we had enough, best decision ever!

Since things are usually happening here, I would check the travel advisory recommendations for the city before booking a trip. If they say to avoid a certain area/barrio, do just that. Don’t risk your life for the perfect Insta pic.

Their street food is an absolute must, the spicier the better. One word of caution though: scan the area and go for the vendor that seems to put more thought into preparing the meal, you want to look for clean hands, avoiding touching the food directly, fresh-looking ingredients etc.

Areas worth checking: Santa Fe, Xochimilco, Roma, Centro Histórico, San Ángel, Coyoacán.

Mostly Safe, One of a kind city

I have visited CDMX many times for prolonged periods and can say this city is not only extremely unique and beautiful, but it is actually very safe in the popular areas (which are the only areas most visitors will be in anyway).

Areas like Condesa, Roma Norte, Reforma, Polanco, Lomas, and Pedregal are safe during the day and night. There are many wealthy residents and tourists walking with expensive bags and such during the day in these areas.

You’ll find a near-infinite number of art and design galleries, historic museums, amazing restaurants, ancient sites, open plazas with fountains, and my absolute favorite feature of the city, the greenery! CDMX is covered in trees, plants, flowers, etc to keep the dust and dirt in place, but it ends up adding the most memorable charm to many neighborhoods. Condesa’s Calle Amsterdam has a center walkway covered in greenery and is one of the most memorable places to take a Sunday stroll before breakfast.

Polanco is the best place to go shopping or out for lunch, especially if you want to be seen. People dress their best in Polanco, and you’ll see many luxury stores and expensive cars up and down the main shopping avenue.

My favorite neighborhood, and the safest in the city, is Lomas (there are actually several Lomas, but they’re all safe).

Politicians, celebrities, actors, etc all live in Lomas, and as such, it is very quiet, safe, and has some of the best restaurants and small boutiques.

If you have a higher budget, I’d definitely recommend staying in Polanco or Lomas. El Centro is really stunning, and the architecture cannot be missed, but it is not as safe or clean as the rest of the popular areas of the city. You’ll find some of the best bars and clubs here, and many trendy rooftop lounges and restaurants favorited by locals and visitors alike.

However, El Centro, being the tourist hotspot of the city, attracts pick-pockets and wandering eyes (much like NYC’s Times Square).

In general, like most major international cities, you should use common sense to blend in when necessary, but in most popular areas, this is not a problem. Definitely come prepared with some Spanish, as many people do not speak English well, but they will try. Overall, if you’ve ever thought about visiting CDMX, do it! Deserves a higher score.

However, do NOT go to any bad areas. Luckily, they are easy to avoid and you most likely won’t even drive/Uber through one as they are not near the city center. These areas are not safe for tourists, especially ones who do not speak Spanish.

Police in México is very corrupt

I was mugged by mexican police, they said that was cheaper for my use the taxi on the taxi station, the put me inside the taxi, when I asked the price was higher than taxis from the street, don’t trust the police from there. If you just go to tourist places is normal like majority of countries.

AVOID TAXIS AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Well, we travelled to Mexico City in a group of six and stayed in a hotel near to Zócalo. In the first night, we went to Condesa. When we were coming back to our hotel, we stopped a taxi on the street. The taxi driver was so fucking disrespectful. talked about sex during the whole travel and mocked about our accent, because we pronounce “Moya” (the name of the street) differently. After that, the taxi driver left us “near” to our hotel (like 6 blocks away) at 10pm. There were no people on the streets. It was really, really scary. A couple of days after, we went to Bosques de Chapultepec by metro. Another disgusting experience. Two men tried to sexually harass us. The train was crowded and no one said nothing about that, acting like that was normal. We got scammed too. On our last day, we walked nearby the hotel by day. We arrived to Làzaro Cardenas street. People there sell stolen items, mainly Apple products and cellphones. One of us wanted to fix her iPhone battery and left it. We came back on a hurry because we had to go to the airport and she got her phone with the new battery. Surprise: they replaced the original display of the phone with a fake one, so Face ID didn’t work correctly. This is a sad story, because Mexico City is a gorgeous and very interesting place to visit. Such a shame, I would really love to come back, but this makes me think twice about that…

Nice city I think it should have a higher security rating, maybe 60%

City duality makes and breaks it.

If you’re a non-NA white person you’re going to have a completely different experience to a Filipino or African American. Customs are more likely to reject you if you are from another developing country than a Western country, especially if you are a single woman. South Asians, Africans and Muslims are also more likely to be rejected. Make sure you have proof of exit/return before arrival.

Do your research on the area you want to stay in, every Barrio offers something different. Stayed there in BJ for 2-months. Lovely, family-orientated Barrio, never had any issues with crime. Centre is beautiful during the day, but menacing at night. The Police in tourist areas like Roma Norte or Coyoacan won’t usually bother you, though if you go further out into parts of Tlalpan, they’re thugs that extort and beat locals. That being said, don’t be afraid to leave tourist hotspots if you have a local friend or guide, just make sure you take some measures to blend in (dress like the locals, try speak Spanish, no flash etc).

Metro is very modern and clean, with segregated carriages for Women/Kids. Anthropology museum is world-class, as is the museum of fine arts in the centre. Very car-centric city, so best take an Uber if you don’t want to use the metro or trolley-bus. Walk in the parks, not between Barrios.

The quality of fruit and veg you can find here is far better and cheaper than Europe. The tacos, tamales, café de la olla, cremas, crepas and drinking chocolate are top-notch. The meat and bread are similar to the rest of North America. Don’t eat the salmon. Most of the processed food is crammed full of sugar and fat. The local cheese tends to emphasise texture over taste. The country as a whole has foods and drinks you might never have heard of, like agua jamaica, or cempasuchil ice cream, so check them out while you can.

Sadly, pollution is dismal, tap-water is pathogenic, and the random tamales peddlers blasting down the street can take some getting used to. There were some obvious signs of drug problems, people lying unconscious and scarred outside the Jamaica markets, vendors drinking on the job, and the homeless… Sporadically, surrounding the centre, you may stumble across a refugee camp on the city street, usually the widows or orphans of cartel violence from other parts of the country.

Overall Mexico City is a city of vibrance and violence. In the right places, you will never want to leave; in the wrong places, you’ll count your stars back to the airport.

Best experience in a Major Crowded city…lived in Paris for 5 years, but this place is packed, though the Metro is not as stinky. As someone else mentioned above, there are separate carriages for women and children. Been to the most touristy places in el Zocalo, Coyoacan (Frida Kahlo house),Mercado Ciudadelas, walked at night from a Walmart, and had absolutely no problems, not from thugs, nor corrupt police. I used a blend of Ubers and Metro, since sometimes you might even get faster using the latter (and cheaper of course 5MXN!)

3 happy years spent as a solo female. Even took the metro and metrobus. Stay in female cars tho as I’ve had 2 guys rub up against me in a sexual way. And once someone pulled the equivalent of $2 out my pocket at 5am on NYE… I had like $50 in the other and just felt blessed! LOL Walked home from Condesa at 3am with NO issues. Some areas have prostitutes but they’re harmless and usually only in low income areas. The only unsafe areas are the HOOD (La Languila, La Merced, etc.) But I’ve been to La Merced 2X without issue. I am AA and dont look local

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Article Contents

  • Mexico City : Safety by City
  • Overall Risk
  • Transport & Taxis Risk
  • Pickpockets Risk
  • Natural Disasters Risk
  • Mugging Risk
  • Terrorism Risk
  • Women Travelers Risk
  • Weather Averages (Temperatures)
  • User Reviews
  • Share Your Experience

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Mexico is open to tourists. Here’s what locals want you to know before you go.

Americans are allowed into mexico, but there are precautions to consider before booking a trip..

american tourist mexico city

Americans willing to travel abroad have limited options. Their passport, which once unlocked access to most of the world, is now hindering them from moving freely as countries watch coronavirus cases rise in the United States.

But one of America’s most popular travel destinations remains open and available: Mexico.

While the State Department recommends people “reconsider” travel to Mexico because of the coronavirus , and nonessential travel across land borders is still restricted , discounted flights have been tempting Americans throughout the pandemic. According to data from the travel booking company CheapCaribbean.com, Mexico now makes up 70 percent of the company’s bookings, up 20 percent from the pre-covid-19 era. SkyScanner data has shown Cancún as one of the most-searched destinations for fall travel.

But do Mexicans want Americans to visit during the pandemic? We spoke with people who work in hospitality and tourism there to find out what they want Americans to know before booking a trip.

The latest trend among wealthy American travelers? Buying another country’s citizenship.

What locals say

Before the pandemic, Andrea Villela says a major selling point for her mezcal business, La Fiera Mezcal , was the intimacy of the tasting sessions at her home in Mexico City. Now those personal touches, like home-cooked meals and lingering conversations, can feel like a risk. She’s now limiting tastings to groups of four, taking their temperature when they arrive, providing Lysol wipes and wearing a mask as she hosts the experience.

Although she relies on travelers for her business, she says, it’s still too early for Americans to be visiting.

“I know I can get the virus not only from tourists — I can get the virus here in the city,” Villela says. “I don’t feel like I have more chance to get the virus by hosting a group of people than from going to downtown in peak rush hour, even with my protection.”

Her advice to travelers who still decide to come to Mexico is to avoid small towns, where Villela says there is a lot of coronavirus misinformation and a lack of resources. “They don’t have hospitals, and people are getting really, really sick,” she says.

David Alvarado, a Mexican American producer and creative consultant living in Mexico City, says he’s 100 percent against Americans visiting Mexico at this time and regularly tells friends not to plan trips yet.

“I run into Americans always here on vacation who are not wearing masks, who don’t take the locals and their health into consideration,” he says. “I don’t even think they’re aware of the lack of resources available to Mexico right now in the middle of this pandemic.”

It’s a double-edged sword: Alvarado recognizes that tourism is an economic lifeline and that there’s no government support for those not working, but he’s also wary of what a second wave could do to the country.

“There are not a lot of government funds going into testing and providing resources. If you get someone sick, you directly impact their economic livelihood,” he says. “[Americans are] coming here no matter what, so just be mindful of how vulnerable a lot of people are here."

Mexican beach destination tries to lure tourists back in the midst of the pandemic

Mexico City chef Maycoll Calderón says he has burned through his personal savings to pay his bar and restaurant employees’s salaries throughout the pandemic. Per the city’s coronavirus restrictions, he can only allow up to 30 percent occupancy in his establishments, so to help make up for lost revenue, he started a handmade-pasta delivery service and also teaches online cooking classes.

Calderón doesn’t discourage visitors to Mexico because he feels the country is handling its coronavirus outbreak better than the United States.

“The economy in Mexico depends on tourism, not only in hotels but restaurants and everything else,” Calderón says. “To tell the truth I recommend everybody come to Mexico because everywhere you go, hotels, restaurants, even sites that you want to visit, everybody is conscious to protect themselves. Everybody tests your temperature, gives you [hand sanitizer]. Everybody is trying to do their best to make the situation not spread even more.”

What tour guides say

Bill Esparza, the James Beard award-winning author of the book “L.A. Mexicano” and co-founder of the food-tour company Club Tengo Hambre , says visitors are welcome in his eyes but should know they’re coming at their own risk. Having traveled throughout Mexico during the pandemic, Esparza, who lives in Los Angeles but travels to Mexico regularly for work, found that coronavirus precautions varied from state to state. Some Mexican communities were entirely closed to outsiders, some had strict curfews, and others seemed to not have any restrictions.

He says overall, people are just figuring out how to make it through the crisis, including his tour guides.

“People are anxious to work, and, of course, they’re taking their own precautions,” he says. “We’re here to safely take people around, and the vendors want customers. They want to sell tacos, and restaurants want to sell food. Mexico does have protocols and safety requirements for these places, and they’re doing their best.”

Not all tour operations are back up and running.

Intrepid Travel , which does small-group adventure travel, is still monitoring data and assessing the pandemic regularly to determine when it can relaunch its Mexico tours. The company is developing new covid-19 protocols and figuring out how to handle logistics (such as buses and group lodging and PPE distribution) in a pandemic. It’s hoping that if cases continue to drop, they can host a few tours in late November or December.

U.S.-Mexico border closure extended days after State Dept. lifts ‘do not travel’ advisory

In the meantime, Intrepid’s guides have had to figure out other sources of income while tours remain on hold. Carlos Cardona, Intrepid’s general manager of operations in Central America and Mexico, says some guides have started selling jewelry, one went back to his family’s farm to sell honey, and others are using their English skills at call centers.

Cardona doesn’t discourage travelers from visiting Mexico now, but he recommends Americans consult their physicians first to determine if they’re healthy enough to take the risk of traveling, as well as consult the State Department recommendations.

What tourism boards say

Rocio Lancaster, the tourism undersecretary for the state of Jalisco, says that while they’re aware they must be concerned for the safety of tourism employees, there are also many families that depend on tourism for their economic survival.

“What we can do is just make sure we have the right measures and protect the tourists and the locals,” Lancaster says, noting that Jalisco was granted a Safe Travels Stamp from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) for its coronavirus prevention procedures. “We just want to be conscious of the situation we’re living, but I would say that we are eager to welcome people from the U.S.”

Lancaster also recommends that visitors read the covid-19 Q&A before their trip.

Michelle Fridman, the tourism secretary of the state of Yucatán, says the region took strict actions at the beginning of the pandemic, shutting down nearly every aspect of tourism for six months. Fridman says more than 1,200 tourism companies and guides have qualified for the region’s new biosecurity risk prevention certification to promote covid-safe practices.

Fridman wants Americans to feel welcome to come to Mexico, as long as they’re willing to follow the new restrictions in place.

“We want to do this responsibly and have a sustainable reopening for everyone,” she says. “I cannot say we’re out of covid — of course every country in the world has or is exposed to covid — but we are a safe destination and want to keep it that way.”

Covid eliminated airline change fees. Could hotel resort fees be next?

What hotels say

To salvage what business they could during the pandemic, many hotels throughout Mexico moved quickly to welcome visitors as safely as possible.

Giorgio Brignone, the director of Careyes Mexico, says both domestic and American guests have been slowly returning to the luxury property in the state of Jalisco since it reopened with reduced capacity and new safety protocols in June.

“Americans are more than welcome,” Brignone says. “[Locals] realize America is a very important market for Mexico.”

At the reopened Viceroy Los Cabos , guests can book a sanitized Tesla driven by masked drivers for rides to and from the airport. Masks are required on the property, and the hotel has installed glass partitions at lobby desks and placed stickers around that remind people to social distance.

The hotel’s regional managing director, Peter Bowling, hopes Americans will return this fall and winter to relax and make up for their lost vacation time this year.

“But still, we’ve got to be very much aware that the virus is increasing in certain parts of the world, and we take it very seriously,” Bowling says, adding that visitors should show respect to locals by following coronavirus safety precautions.

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Mexico City Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

a view overlooking the bustling Mexico City from above

Founded in the early 14th century by the Aztecs, Mexico City is one of the oldest capital cities in the Americas. Today, it is one of the most fascinating cultural destinations in the world, with eclectic art galleries, animated food markets, bustling nightlife, and grandiose historic buildings on tree-lined streets.

I was late to visit Mexico City, but once I spent time here I fell in love. The museum, parks, and food scene make this a world-class city in my view. It’s also super affordable and has a growing expat/digital nomad scene so it’s easy to visit long-term and make connections.

This travel guide to Mexico City can help you make the most out of your trip, save money, help you stay safe, and ensure you have an amazing visit!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Mexico City

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Mexico City

A drooping Mexican flag near one of Mexico City's iconic historic buildings

1. Walk through the Zócalo

Encompassing the Templo Mayor, Palacio Nacional, and Plaza de la Constitución, the Zócalo is the heart of Mexico City’s Historic Center. Originally the site of an Aztec Temple, the Templo Mayor was destroyed to make room for a new Spanish cathedral in 1521. Rediscovered in the 1970s, you can now view ancient artifacts uncovered from the site alongside the stunning Spanish colonial architecture of La Catedral Metropolitana. Exploring the Zócalo area is the perfect introduction to Mexico City’s rich culture and history. Start your visit here.

2. Relax in Chapultepec Park

Spanning 1,695 acres in the heart of Mexico City, here you’ll find a zoo, La Feria amusement park, and nine unique museums. Chapultepec Park is one of the world’s most visited urban parks, and you can spend days strolling around forest paths and relaxing by the water. Here you’ll find the Museum of Anthropology, which houses a vast collection of sculptures, jewels, and artifacts from ancient Mexican civilizations (admission is 70 MXN). You can also rent a rowboat or paddle boat and go out on Chapultepec Lake for 60 MXN. And history buffs will love a visit to Chapultepec Castle, the former home of Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota. It was built on a sacred Aztec site. Admission costs 80 MXN and is free on Sundays.

3. Participate in Day of the Dead

Every November, on the 1st and 2nd of the month, the entire country joins in a mass celebration of the dead. Everywhere you go, there are decorated sugar skulls, candy treats, and baked goods known as Pan de Muerto . The festival is a vibrant and lively affair with celebrations for those who are gone but not forgotten, including parades of elaborate and colorful costumes. It’s a must-do and an incredibly vibrant cultural experience you will never forget. All you have to do is show up!

Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera are two of the biggest names in Mexican art. Frida was particularly famous for her portraits and self-portraits. A tour of their old home (the “Casa Azul”) is a worthwhile experience to see where and how she lived, as well as some of her original artwork. Caza Azul also hosts a variety of artistic workshops monthly, so check out the schedule if you’re interested in learning a new skill during your Mexico City trip. Tickets are 250 MXN. Buy tickets in advance because tickets are high in demand.

5. Check out the art and history museums

There are tons of museums and galleries in Mexico City, perfect for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Worthwhile museums include the Museum of Anthropology, the National History Museum, the Modern Art Museum, the National Art Museum, and the Museo do Arte Populare (folk art museum). Mexico City can compete with any other culturally rich city so be sure to spend some time admiring these massive collections. Tickets start at 70 MXN.

Other Things to See and Do in Mexico City

1. visit castillo de chapultepec.

The only castle in North America to house sovereigns, Chapultepec Castle was built in 1725 as a large manor house for the Viceroy (the colonial administrator from Spain). Abandoned during the Mexican War of Independence in 1810, Chapultepec later became the residence of Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota in 1864 during the Second Mexican Empire (1864–1867). Today, Chapultepec Castle is home to Museo Nacional de Historia, which tells the story of Mexico from the time of Tenochtitlan to the Mexican Revolution. It costs 85 MXN.

2. Explore Templo Mayor

Mexico City is a hotbed of historical landmarks, particularly those dating back to the Aztec period, and there is no finer example than the Great Temple of Tenochtitlan. Located in the heart of the Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco, Templo Mayor is an example of life in Mesoamerica before the arrival of the Spanish in 1519. The Aztecs believed the area to be the literal center of the universe, and it was here where they sighted the eagle perched on a cactus with a snake in its beak — the symbol of Mexico today. Admission is 85 MXN and includes entrance to the museum and the archeological site.

3. Feast in the Zona Rosa

One of the most popular neighborhoods in Mexico City, Zona Rosa is historically known for being the heart of the city’s gay community and boasts an array of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. This is the best nightlife area in the city. Make sure to dress well here too. Try places like Cafeteríra El Péndulo, Xaman Bar, and Cabaretito Fusión. If you have a taste for Korean barbeque (Zona Rosa has a huge Korean community!), head to BiWon.

4. Visit the Museo Nacional de Antropología

Found within Chapultepec Park, this world-class anthropology museum is the largest museum in Mexico, at 45,000 square meters (it’s also the most-visited museum in the country). Open since 1964, the museum houses a vast collection of sculptures, jewels, and artifacts from ancient Mexican civilizations. There’s an exhibition on the culture of Native Americans in Mexico as well as numerous rotating temporary exhibitions (often on other great cultures from around the world, such as Iran, China, and Greece). Admission is 85 MXN.

5. Tour a megalibrary

Situated among gardens, the Biblioteca Vasconcelos is a temple to books, often referred to as a “megalibrary”. Opening its doors in 2006, the library features transparent walls and intentionally mismatched floors, six floors, and houses over 600,000 books! The library also offers cultural activities like concerts, plays, and dance performances, and there’s also a 26,000-square-meter garden filled with trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Admission is free. Check the website to see what events are happening during your visit.

6. Check out the Basilica de Guadalupe

The Basilica de Guadalupe is a Catholic church, basilica, and world-famous shrine, drawing thousands of pilgrims every year from all over Mexico. The yearly celebration of the shrine is on December 12th, which makes this a crazy, festival-like place to be during that time. Take time to explore the grounds, as well as the basilica and shrine. The old basilica was constructed from 1695-1709, built on the spot where the Virgin of Guadalupe had first appeared to the peasant-turned-saint Juan Diego in 1531. The old basilica began to sink in its foundation, and a new basilica was constructed from 1974-1976. Just make sure to dress respectfully during your visit as it is a place of worship.

7. Marvel at the Soumaya Museum

Housing 66,000 pieces of Central American and European art, the Soumaya Museum displays works not only by Mexican artists like Diego Rivera and Rufino Tamayo, but also by famous masters like Botticelli, Dalí, and Rodin, to name a few. The museum was donated and constructed by one of the world’s richest men, Carlos Slim Helú (a Mexican business magnate). In Northern Mexico City, the Soumaya Museum is a stunning building covered with 16,000 aluminum hexagonal tiles, which sparkle in the sunlight. It’s considered to be the most beautiful modern building in Mexico City. Admission is free.

8. Attend a lucha libre

Mexican free wrestling is a favorite pastime among locals. Extremely entertaining and affordable, Lucha libre takes wrestling to a whole new level, and the cheers and heckles from the crowd add to the fun. Grab a beer or a shot of tequila, and get ready to holler some Spanish jeers – and whatever you do, do not look away during a match as anything can, and will, happen. General seating tickets can be as little as 56 MXN each. Don’t go with a tour or book ahead of time as you’ll pay a lot more. Do not buy from scalpers either, because the police are always around and you’ll get in trouble. Look for a tequila (ticket booth) sign to be sure that you are paying the right price. Do not bring your camera, as you will be forced to check it at the door.

9. Visit the UNAM Botanical Garden

If you need to escape the hustle and bustle of Mexico City for a little while, The Botanical Garden at the National Autonomous University of Mexico is the perfect place. Keeping with the Aztec traditions of having gardens for both medicinal and ornamental purposes, there is also an added focus on conservation and environmental education. Built on top of and around lava formations from the eruption of the volcano Xitle, visitors can explore the naturally formed grottoes, ponds and waterfalls. This garden has the most diverse cactus collection in the world (800 different kinds!), ponds full of koi and turtles, an orchidarium, and a medicinal garden.

This green space is not only a haven for people but the local wildlife as well. Keep an eye out for woodpeckers, owls, hummingbirds, rattlesnakes, lizards, and the Pedregal tarantula, which is a species only found in this small area of Mexico City. Admission is free.

10. Have some tacos at Taqueria los Cocuyos

There are tons of taquerias (taco stands) around Mexico City, but this 50-year-old establishment in the Historic Center has a vast array of meats to choose from. They have standard fillings like carnitas or chorizo, but why not try a tripe, brains (they have a creamy consistency), or tongue (this melts in your mouth like pot roast) taco? Anthony Bourdain absolutely loved this taqueria so need I say more?

  For information on other cities in Mexico, check out these guides:

  • Cancun Travel Guide
  • Oaxaca Travel Guide

Mexico City Travel Costs

The famous Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City, Mexico

Hostel prices – During peak season, the price per bed in a 4-6-bed dorm starts at 300 MXN per night, whereas a private room for two ranges from 600-1,900 MXN per night. In the shoulder season, those prices drop to 225 MXN and 850 MXN respectively. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star rooms in Mexico City start around 300 MXN, while a three-star hotel ranges from 500-900 MXN. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, AC, and occasionally free breakfast.

Airbnb is also an option in Mexico City, with private rooms starting at 220 MXN per night (though most are around 600 MXN). Entire homes and apartments start at 700 MXN and go up from there. Book early to find the best deals.

Food – Typical Mexican dishes include tacos, mole (a sauce with lots of ingredients, often including chocolate), salsa, enchiladas, tamales (stuffed corn pockets), pozole (hominy stew topped with onion, avocado, and chili) guacamole.

Street stalls and markets are the best way to go for authentic and inexpensive food. Tacos, quesadilla, sopas, tortas, and other street foods are generally 15-45 MXN. Sometimes, you’ll find tacos for as cheap as 10 MXN.

A cheap meal at a restaurant costs around 150 MXN. Look for the ones filled with locals as that is generally a sign that the food is really good. If you want to splash out, a three-course meal costs around 325 MXN.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 130 MXN for a combo meal. Pizza starts at 400 MXN while Chinese food costs around 200 MXN for a main dish.

Beer is 50-80 MXN while a latte/cappuccino is 55 MXN.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico. Bring a portable water purifier or use bottled water ( LifeStraw makes a good one.)

If you plan to cook your meals, expect to pay between 500-585 MXN per week for groceries that will include rice, vegetables, chicken, tortillas, and beans. However, with street food so cheap and most hostels and hotels without kitchens, it’s best to simply eat local rather than cook.

Backpacking Mexico City Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Mexico City, expect to spend 1,050 MXN per day. This budget gets you a hostel dorm, street food and self-cooked meals, public transportation, and a few attractions (such as museums and galleries) each day. If you plan on eating out more or drinking, you’ll need to add another 100 MXN per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 1,900 MXN per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out at restaurants serving cheap traditional cuisine for every meal, visit more attractions, enjoy a few drinks, and take the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,800 MXN or more per day, you can stay at a hotel, eat out for all your meals, have plenty of drinks, take taxis everywhere, and do some guided trips and tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MXN.

Mexico City Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Mexico City is a really affordable city to visit. While prices have risen in the last couple of years, there’s tons of affordable street food and accommodation. Plus, lots of free activities to help keep your costs down. To help keep your budget intact, here are some ways to save in Mexico City:

  • Eat street food – Save money on food by eating at the big markets or from the vendors on the street. You’ll get big, flavorful, and filling meals for only a few dollars. If you’re wary, just eat wherever you see children eating. If kids can eat that food, you’ll be fine!
  • Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. Not only will this lower your accommodation costs but you’ll get to connect with a local insider who can share their tips and advice.
  • Go on a free walking tour – Learn the history behind the places you are seeing and to avoid missing any must-see stops in Mexico City. Estacion Mexico Free Tours has a historic downtown tour that can show you what the city has to offer. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
  • Save money on rideshares – Uber is cheaper than taxis and is the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi.
  • Drink less – Alcohol is cheap in Mexico City, but it’s definitely more expensive at bars and clubs. Try to buy your alcohol from a local store instead of drinking at the bar if you’re on a budget.
  • Take public transit – Public transportation is the most affordable way to get around. You can purchase a rechargeable Smartcard at any of the metro stations and you can use the card for the metro and metro buses.
  • Being a water filter – Since the tap water here isn’t safe to drink and single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water bottle with a built-in filter. LifeStraw is my go-to choice as it ensures your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Mexico City

Mexico City has a bunch of affordable hostels that are fun and safe. Here are some of recommended places to stay:

  • Suites DF Hostel
  • Mexico City Hostel
  • Massiosare El Hostel
  • Hostel Home

How to Get Around Mexico City

A tree-lined walking path in bustling Mexico City, Mexico

Public transportation – Mexico City is very large and the best way to get around is the subway (metro) system. It’s usually busy and crowded but it’s efficient. You can buy a rechargeable smart card at any of the Metro stations for 16 MXN (this includes the first 5 MXN ticket), and you can use the card for the metro and metro buses. A public city bus costs 6 MXN. You also can ride a Microbus (or a pesero as it’s commonly known), which are privately-run. A ticket for these costs 2.50-4 MXN.

Alternatively, Turibus is a touristy hop-on hop-off bus with four routes in Mexico City. These buses can be a good way to get your bearings and discover areas of the city you may want to explore further. A 1-day ticket is 160 MXN on weekdays and 180 MXN on the weekends.

Bicycle – For bike rentals, check out EcoBici, a bike-sharing program. It offers the first 45 minutes free. After that, your first hour is 25 MXN and each hour after is an additional 50 MXN. A full day is 118 MXN. After you’re done riding, you can return the bike to any kiosk with an open dock (indicated by a green light).

Taxis – Taxi fares start from around 25 MXN and then each kilometer is an additional 16 MXN. Don’t hail a taxi which is passing on the street. Instead, take one from outside a hotel or restaurant as these are authorized taxis and safer to use.

Ride-sharing – Uber, an alternative to taxis, operates in Mexico City and is generally cheaper than taxis.

When to Go to Mexico City

Summer (June to October) is the rainy season in Mexico, but mostly in the center of the country. You can expect it to rain each day heavily, but the downpour is usually short. It hardly ever rains in the northern part of the country, and humidity is thick in the south and along the coastal areas. Temperatures during this time are somewhere between 26-32°C (79-90°F).

April to June are typically the hottest months with temperatures averaging a high of 27°C (80°F). This is also one of the busiest times of year so be sure to book early.

Semana Santa is one of the biggest holidays in Mexico, next to Christmas and Day of the Dead. It takes place the week before Easter, when a re-enactment of the crucifixion takes place. Día de la Independencia takes place September 16th, but the celebrations begin the night before in Mexico City’s Zócalo, complete with fireworks. This is Mexico’s independence day, not Cinco de Mayo which is a celebration of the battle of Puebla which takes place in the state of Puebla, to the south of Mexico City.

In November, the streets and cemeteries of Mexico come alive as locals celebrate Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), a time when locals hold all-night vigils and commune with loved ones who have died. It’s also a time of parties and parades and sugar skulls. An unforgettable experience, especially in Mexico City. If you want to visit for the festival, book well in advance. The city books up fast and accommodation prices rise.

How to Stay Safe in Mexico City

The media (especially the American media) likes to paint Mexico City as a dangerous place to visit, but the reality is that a lot of Mexico City is completely safe. While petty theft (including bag snatching) is common here, most of the serious conflict is between the authorities and Mexican drug cartels, which will have little impact on your trip.

Stay away from neighborhoods like Tepito and Iztapalapa, and be aware of your surroundings in large crowded markets where it is easy to be targeted by pickpockets. Do your best to blend in and always keep your valuables secure and out of reach.

The people who tend to get in trouble are often involved in doing drugs or taking part in sex tourism. Stay away from that stuff for many reasons.

Locals are friendly and helpful. If you’re not sure about a neighborhood, ask a local. They can tell you whether or not it is a good idea to go there.

A local once described the city as a night city, which meant that, since there are lots of people out at night, there are eyes everywhere which helps reduce the likelihood of crime. I’ve never felt unsafe walking alone, especially when I’m in areas like Condesa, Roma Norte, or Jaurez, which are the areas you are likely to be in as a tourist.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, though I would take extra caution at night. The standard safety precautions apply (never walk home alone intoxicated, never leave your drink unattended at the bar, etc.). Be sure to read one of the many solo female travel blogs for specific tips.

Keep an eye out for common scams against tourists , such as fake ATMs, taxis that don’t use a meter, and questionable tour operators.

If you need emergency services, dial 911.

While Mexico’s water purification and treatment systems have improved, it’s still not safe to drink tap water when visiting. Use a LifeStraw to avoid single-use plastic and ensure your water is safe. It has a built-in filter to purify your water.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Mexico City Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Mexico City Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Mexico City and continue planning your trip:

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

Is Tulum Safe?

Is Tulum Safe?

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  • Where To Stay
  • Transportation
  • Booking Resources
  • Related Blogs

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A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Mexico City

Wander the streets of Mexico City and youll discover something new at every turn

Northern England Writer

The Mexican capital, in all its sprawling enormity, can be overwhelming for any visitor – whether it’s your first time here or your 30th. But with a little insider knowledge, you’ll soon fall in love with this engaging, energetic city. Here are the top tips for traveling solo in Mexico City , from impressing with some local lingo to knowing the right places to stay.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Unsure about traveling alone in Mexico? Book your place on Culture Trip’s exclusive five-day Mexico City tour where our Local Insider will help you navigate this exciting city.

Learn some basic Spanish

While many people in the capital know some English, particularly those working in the tourism industry, a good chunk won’t have a clue what you’re saying. So brush up on a few basic phrases before you land at Mexico City International Airport. A gracias or por favor goes a long way, but if you can master some key phrases – disculpe, ¿dónde está el baño? (excuse me, where is the bathroom?) – you’ll soon start to mix with the locals.

american tourist mexico city

Hit up the top tourist attractions

Frida Kahlo’s home, La Casa Azul, is now a museum dedicated to her work and life

If you’re a solo traveler in Mexico City, don’t swerve the big-name attractions. Yes, the most popular landmarks have a heavy footfall, but they’re popular for a reason. Among the must-visits are the Zócalo, around which you’ll find the grand Catedral Metropolitana and the Aztec ruins of the Templo Mayor; Chapultepec Park, the biggest green space in the city; and La Casa Azul, Frida Kahlo’s home and now a museum dedicated to her life and works. It’s the mix of essential landmarks and little-known hip hangouts that makes this city one of the best places in Mexico for solo travel.

Stay in areas with tons of foot traffic

The streets around the Zocalo in the historic center are nearly always busy

If you’re going it alone in the capital, stay in a busy area. There’ll be plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travelers and you’ll probably feel more comfortable with others around. If you want easy access to the big-name landmarks, book a room near the Zocalo. But to mix with the cool kids, base yourself in the trendy neighborhoods of Roma or Condesa.

Take care with your prized possessions

When you’re traveling alone in Mexico City, always watch out for your valuables – as you would in any major city. Basic precautions should protect your essential items: never carry your passport or large amounts of cash; keep your bag zipped up and near you at all times; and don’t keep your cell phone and wallet where they can be easily grabbed.

Stay in one of the top hostels in the city

Casa Pancha is one many hostels in Mexico City taking budget-friendly stays to the next level

It’s one of the top traveler destinations in the world, and one of the largest capital cities in the Americas, so unsurprisingly there are several excellent hostels in Mexico City . The benefits? You’ll be surrounded by like-minded people looking to have similar experiences to yourself. You might even have your mind opened to things you hadn’t considered.

Try out the Turibus

Casa Pancha is one many hostels in Mexico City taking budget-friendly stays to the next level

If you’re not confident to traipse the streets of Mexico City alone, then why not hop on the super-convenient Turibus? This open-top doubledecker will transport you around the city highlights for a reasonable price, so you can be sure you’ve got your fill of attractions and culture.

Taste the street food

Exploring the street-food scene is a must when you’re in Mexico City

Mexico City is renowned for having exquisite street food – you’ll find delicious corn, cheese and meat combos on practically every corner. But if you’re traveling alone, how do you make sure you pick the right street-food stall? If there’s no-one to ask, your safest bet is heading to the busiest vendor. Their quick turnover means your food will be freshly cooked, while the large crowds are a sure sign your meal will be good.

Steer clear of certain areas

Is Mexico City safe for solo travelers? Absolutely. But don’t put yourself in unnecessary danger. As with any city, there are some areas to avoid. The most notable example is Tepito – a neighborhood with a dicey rep.

Don’t use the metro late at night

The Metro is a convenient way of getting around the city, just avoid it at night

While the metro runs until at least midnight every day, you shouldn’t use it alone late at night. The rush hour often lasts until 9pm in heavily populated areas, after which the carriages become eerily empty. Plus, many stations have several exits – come out the wrong one and you might be disoriented in the dark.

Download Uber

The most practical thing the solo traveler in Mexico City could do is download the Uber app. It’s a simple solution to getting around the city without diving into taxis or taking the metro.

landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

american tourist mexico city

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US issues Mexico 'increased caution' warning for spring break travelers

american tourist mexico city

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico has issued a spring break travel warning for Americans planning to visit the country. The message posted on Monday highlighted a range of potential safety threats in the popular destination like crime.

“U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark,” the advisory said, though it noted that crime can occur anywhere in Mexico. The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for the country notes various warning levels for different states, ranging from Level 1 (“exercise normal precautions") through 4 (“do not travel”).

The message also warned of other potential hazards like unregulated alcohol and pharmaceuticals. “Unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, and U.S. citizens have reported losing consciousness or becoming injured after consuming alcohol that was possibly tainted,” the advisory said. 

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates noted that counterfeit medication is “common” and could be ineffective or an incorrect strength. Those products may also have dangerous ingredients. “Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments,” the message said.

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The advisory warned of drowning and high private hospital prices, as well, among other risks. The message urged travelers to take precautions like keeping an eye on their drinks; staying with a group of friends in bars and clubs, while walking in dark areas or in taxis at night; and letting family and friends know about their travel plans.

Despite the warning, however, it noted that “the vast majority” of U.S. citizens visiting Mexico at spring break each year do so safely.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Traveling to Mexico City? What to tip, how to behave, and when to avoid the Metro

In Mexico City, life is a contact sport.

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This is the real-talk portion of your guide to Mexico City.

First, a note about the city’s name. In 2015, city think-ocrats initiated a global rebranding for Mexico’s capital. It lost its designation as a Federal District (akin to District of Columbia), and became simply Ciudad de México, but crucially, the government began pushing a fresh text shorthand: “CDMX.”

Though “CDMX” has fully entered mainstream discourse, I remain part of the dwindling minority that avoids its use. I find the moniker so grating because it rolls off the tongue easily in English and a bit awkwardly in Spanish — a cutting clue for whom the rebrand was really targeting all along. In everyday conversation, you may still hear hard-core “chilangos” (slang term for Mexico City residents) stubbornly use “D.F.” (“ deh efeh ”) to refer to their city.

Now, to the tips.

1. The monster that hugs you

I must be blunt here. You see TikToks and listicles about Mexico City and it is always remarkable to me that none of its less attractive characteristics are acknowledged. And when you’re aware of even a fraction of the challenges and failures that still grip locals or cause them to flee the city altogether — in the environment, traffic, corruption, justice and accountability — it’s almost offensive.

Illustration of scenes around Mexico City

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Once you get out of the core between Centro and Polanco, the difficulties of life in Mexico will become stark. A lot has improved in the past few decades, yet class and social bubbles can deceptively make it seem like life here is a pageant of leafy plazas and guava pastries. The capital of Mexico is still fundamentally a dog-eat-dog sort of place, beset with persistent overlapping challenges. Most of its vast sprawl is as gritty as the outskirts of Buenos Aires and Bogotá, and as frequently unforgiving. However, this is a “ monster ” that hugs you, dances with you and is a terrific drinking partner. Just keep your positionality in constant perspective.

2. Is the altitude hitting you?

Illustration of water jugs and bottles

The tap water won’t kill you while tooth brushing or showering, but sure, drink only filtered water when in Mexico City. It’s also a good idea to carry water with you everywhere; altitude sickness as you acclimate is common, as is fatigue from a bad day of pollution. If you are feeling a bit wheezy or dehydrated, pull up to any bar or eatery and request a “Tehuacan” or “ agua mineral preparada. ” That is mineral water on ice with lime and rock salt. Replenish those electrolytes.

3. When to take the Metro ... and when to avoid it

The Metro, one of the busiest in the world, is fun to try if you’re in town for a short time and looking for an almost obstacle-course-level adventure between destinations. Just avoid it during the morning commute and between 3 and 7 p.m., sometimes later. The system is heavily subsidized and still costs just five pesos to ride, which means most of the 5 million people who use it daily do so primarily out of necessity — wealthy Mexicans may even boast they’ve never used the train in their lives. The network of stations is an entire sub-society with its own customs, codes and frequently a sense of collective chaos. The first car of every train is reserved for women only.

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Keep in mind, the overall transit grid is multifaceted and always expanding. Use the Metrobus system, with dedicated bus lanes on surface streets, or the Ecobici bike-share system with any credit card. For taxis, it’s best to use “sitios” or registered stands, or any ride-share service. Hail taxis on the street only if you really know your way around and could identify any driver’s deviation from an accepted route.

4. Tipping and other social flourishes

Illustration of hands exchanging money

Be confident and speak clearly to cabbies, hotel staff and servers. Upon receiving your check at the table, review each item and make sure it’s correct. For tipping, 15% is standard, and 20% is very good. At payment, it is customary to add the tip before your card is run, not after at signing. Say, “Add 15%, please.” (Or “Con el 15 ” or “ Agregue el 15. ”) They will be quite grateful.

The culture is sprinkled with formalities and social flourishes that everyone still uses, across class lines. You must say good morning, good evening, please, thank you, you’re welcome and “hasta luego” — until next time — to everyone, strangers and friends alike, even if you are certain there will be no next time.

In dining rooms, it is customary to acknowledge the table next to you as you get up to leave. Mexico City residents say “ Buen provecho ” or “ Provecho ” to someone nearby who is still eating; it is the local “Bon appetit” or “Enjoy your meal,” and one of the delights of dining out here. The drinking age is 18 in Mexico. There is no carding culture, except maybe at beer dens in direct proximity to a major university or high school.

5. Open up, but don’t let your guard down

This is not official safety information, the kind you get from the U.S. Embassy on crime or security in any country (this is the current official travel advisory for Mexico from the State Department). But like anywhere big in the world, people here should stay on alert. In Mexico City, the saying goes, if someone spots an opening to swindle you, even for a few pesos, they’ll take it — with a smile. So open up to Mexico, but don’t let your guard down. Use your good judgment when meeting new people. Muggings and theft are unfortunately still common for locals. Visitors usually are fine. Just move with an alert and curious demeanor, find trusted locals to orient and guide you, when appropriate, and the city will respond in kind.

6. Know the national identity

For better or for worse, and in direct opposition to what we know in the United States, social divisions in Mexico are organized primarily around class rather than color or race. Mexicans are at their root an Indigenous people — dozens of distinct, stunningly diverse groups have flourished here for millenniums, though most Americans can generally only name two or three. In the 500 years since colonialism, a rigid racial caste system that existed under Spanish rule melted away, and Mexican national identity evolved into a big tent: Most are now mestizo, or Indigenous and European. Mexicans can be white or Black, Asian or Arab, or, in large part, a mix of any such combination. Colorism is still an issue , but most people here embrace a national culture that largely supersedes factional divisions, which can be refreshing in many respects for Americans exhausted with how divided we are up here. Thus, it can be puzzling for many native Mexicans to hear U.S. people fret and agonize so much over their color and race. This is not to say that class-based societal tension is somehow “better” or more tolerable. However, this clear distinction between the two general cultures can sometimes cause friction for first-time visitors.

7. Mexico City is not Cancún, so don’t act like it

Mexico City is not Cancún or Los Cabos. It wasn’t developed or urbanized for the sole purpose of pleasing you. Not everyone here speaks English! Or even cares to try! Or even finds it endearing to hear it from a stranger! At the same time, Mexico City residents are so polite and welcoming, they will willingly endure your mangled Spanish or Spanglish to help you if you need it.

Scenes from Centro in Mexico City, Mexico.

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Don’t land here and start complaining about things you can’t control. In the United States, maybe we’ve become a bit too accustomed to having temperatures set to precisely our liking at all times. Homes are not by default equipped with heaters or air conditioning in the Valley of Mexico. People just add layers, or cover their windows when temperatures go extreme in either direction. The boundary between outside and inside is always fuzzy and negotiable in Mexico, even in the big city. So if you’re hot, find a way to cool down. If you’re cold, go throw on a scarf. The weather changes about four times a day anyway.

Don’t like it when a random stranger bumps into you? Hate it when someone takes a seat directly next to you even if a few over are empty? If so, maybe you won’t mesh so easily with Mexico City, where life is a contact sport.

8. Eating at home is always better

In Mexico City, lunch is church, and home cooking with a family will always be better than anything in a restaurant — a locked-in rule. When I first stayed here, with a working-class clan in a three-level cinderblock house in Iztacalco borough, there were approximately six full family meals in a day, including three distinct breakfasts adhering to three distinct points of a morning. I’m not kidding.

Illustration of piles of fruit at a market

If someone invites you to their house to eat, consider the possibility that whatever you are served might end up being the culinary highlight of your trip. You can get a small taste of this when you try comida corrida at a fonda; this is the Mexico City prix fixe custom of affordable, home-style, lunchtime-only restaurants, which appear on almost every other corner in this city, from the wealthiest to the poorest neighborhoods. The meals range from 60 to 150 pesos (about $3.50 to $9) usually. It would be impossible to say, “Go to this one or that,” as convenience — to the office, or just downstairs from your apartment — is the defining factor in one’s allegiance.

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Use the markets whenever possible. Every major colonia has one, and some are better than others. Yet each sustains a custom of exchange that goes back centuries, and I wish we had public markets with open stalls and vendors in every city here in the States. In my final few years living in Mexico City full-time, my door for a while was 10 paces away from the entrance to a market, where I could roll out of bed in the morning, walk over in my chanclas and get fresh herbs, cheeses, eggs, legumes, vegetables, dairy and avocados “for today” from independent vendors, small farmers and lifetime butchers and fishmongers. Ten paces! I remember thinking, everyone in the world should live like this.

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american tourist mexico city

Daniel Hernandez is Food editor at the Los Angeles Times. From 2020-21, he covered culture in Southern California and received the 2022 Nell Minow Award for Cultural Criticism from the National Press Club for that work. Hernandez is a former Latin America correspondent and editor based in Mexico City, where among other things he reported from inside El Chapo’s escape tunnel for Vice News and on Mexico’s arts and culinary scenes. He is also the former editor of L.A. Taco, which won a James Beard Foundation award in 2020.

american tourist mexico city

Brandon Ly is a senior art director for the Food section at the Los Angeles Times. He started his career at DoorDash and led design teams at the innovation firm Ideo in Shanghai and San Francisco. Ly is a graduate of Stanford University’s product design program and founder of the Black Bean Grocery.

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U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Mexico Ahead of Spring Break

The warning is asking travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed."

american tourist mexico city

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The United States is warning travelers heading to Mexico to be aware of their surroundings ahead of the spring break holiday season.

The warning , which was issued this week by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico, reminds travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed” as “thousands of U.S. citizens visit Mexico during spring break” each year. The embassy continued that “while the vast majority travel safely,” visitors should be aware of issues with crime, drugs, unregulated alcohol, drownings, and more. 

“Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations. Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations,” the embassy warned. “U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark.”

The warning also reminded American travelers that drug possession and use is illegal in Mexico, including medical marijuana. It also advised that unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, that counterfeit medication is common, and that guns are illegal in Mexico.

When it comes to the country’s popular beaches, the embassy reminded travelers some beaches may have strong rip tides and “may lack lifeguards, warnings, or signs of unsafe conditions.”

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico issued a similar spring break warning last year .

The U.S. Department of State classifies different states in Mexico under different warning levels. While travelers can “exercise normal precautions” when traveling to the Campeche and Yucatan states, the State Department warns them to “exercise increased caution” when heading to places like Baja California Sur (where Los Cabos is), Mexico City, and Quintana Roo (where Cancun is) due to crime.

The State Department also asks American travelers to “reconsider” going to the state of Jalisco, which is home to popular destination Puerto Vallarta , due to the danger of crime and kidnapping.

The State Department recommends Americans who do travel to Mexico keep people at home informed of their travel plans and enroll in the department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to both receive alerts and make it easier to locate them if an emergency occurs.

Travelers heading to international destinations can view all current travel advisories on the State Department's website at  travel.state.gov .

Where to Stay in Mexico City: 9 Best Areas

Where to stay in Mexico City

From an elevation of more than a mile in the air, Mexico City is a magical destination. Nearly 1,000 years of history can be explored here, and the city boasts many diverse neighborhoods . When you choose a place to stay in Mexico City , you also are making a decision about what kind of experiences you want to have.

The diverse areas in Mexico City are all worthy of exploration. From the Zocalo Area to Santa Fe, you’ll want to have your camera at the ready so you can capture lively street scenes, historic architecture and public art .

As Mexico’s capital, Mexico City is loaded with fantastic museums, and the nightlife never seems to die down. You could easily be dancing, drinking and socializing until the sun rises on the next morning.

If possible, it’s best to get around the city on foot. Mexico City is actually laid out perfectly to accommodate those choosing this method of transportation. Of course, this also is a large metropolitan area, so it stands to reason that you need an alternative form of transportation on occasion.

The sitio taxis that run all over the city are inexpensive and safe . You have little chance of getting lost when you’re riding with these experienced locals.

Most of the neighborhoods in Mexico City are well-connected by the community’s mass transit system. Unfortunately, safety and security concerns mean that it is not always advisable for travelers to use the buses and subway.

  If you do venture into the subway , you’ll be impressed by the modern, well-organized underground stations and the smoothness and efficiency of the ride. Just be on high alert and keep an eye on your belongings. The Metro is a notorious haven for pickpockets and thieves.

Also, if you’ll be traveling by bus or subway, keep an eye out for pink placards that designate certain transportation for women only . This program was instituted in 2008 to stem the number of incidents on public transportation in which women were groped by men.

It’s a successful program, and it may be a wise choice to take advantage of this option for women traveling alone. Men should take care not to board one of these buses or cars.

Mexico City has many of the same problems as all other major metropolitan areas. Nonetheless, it remains an enchanting city that is fu ll of color and life .

The locals are warm and welcoming, and the many distinctive neighborhoods in Mexico City are simply waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Mexico City: Best areas and neighborhoods

If you’re wondering where to stay in Mexico City , then this in-depth look at all of the major neighborhoods will help you to arrive at an informed decision.

1. Historic Centre, best area to stay in Mexico City for sightseeing and budget travelers

Where to stay in Mexico City: Best areas and neighborhoods

Sometimes called Centro Historico or simply Centro, the heart of Mexico City is the home of the Zócalo , the city’s main plaza and the largest such gathering place in Latin America. In fact, the Zócalo can accommodate almost 100,000 people.

As the name suggests, this neighborhood in Mexico City is filled with historic buildings , many of which were built sometime between the 16th and 20th centuries.

This is Mexico City’s oldest neighborhood . The conquering Spaniards began building here in the 16th century on the ruins of the Aztec capital known as Tenochtitlan. It is this long and complex history that has led to the neighborhood being named a World Heritage Site .

The Zócalo is the focal point of the neighborhood, with many events, festivals and gatherings happening here throughout the year. Visitors can attend anything from a traveling museum to a skateboarding and BMX exhibition.

People who love history won’t be able to resist the charm of this district. This is where it is possible to visit excavated ruins dating from the Aztec empire. Called the Templo Mayor , this structure was once the spiritual centerpiece of Tenochtitlan.

The pyramid is a breathtaking sight, and to learn more about the structure and Aztec culture, a visit to the Museo del Templo Mayor is an absolute must.

Other popular sights in the neighborhood include the Catedral Metropolitana , the beautiful Diego Rivera murals at the Ministry of Education, the gorgeous Palacio Postal and Alameda Central , a municipal park that’s been in existence since 1529.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Mexico City , this is an excellent choice . It’s a center of entertainment and commerce . You’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, shops and nightclubs.

Accommodations range from incredibly inexpensive hostels to elegant, old-world style inns . Rates tend to be quite affordable in this district, and many of the properties have rooftop restaurants and gardens.

This is a great place for any traveler to stay in Mexico City, but use caution when out after dark as pickpockets prowl the area.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CENTRO HISTORICO

  • ($$$)   Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico
  • ($$)  NH Collection México City Centro Histórico
  • ($)  Hotel Diligencias

2. Polanco, where to stay in Mexico City for luxury travelers

Polanco this is a fabulous place to stay in Mexico city

This sprawling residential area sits immediately to the west of the city’s center. Chapultepec Park is the heart of this neighborhood, and it is the largest green space in the city. The park dates to the 15th century when it was established by an Aztec ruler.

In many ways, this is Mexico City’s most exclusive and upscale neighborhood . Visitors will find plenty of museums, restaurants, shops and entertainment throughout the district. Sometimes called the Beverly Hills of Mexico City, this is a fabulous place to stay.

This is definitely a destination for shoppers. The district boasts the biggest department store in Latin America in addition to six malls. Avenida Presidente Masaryk is the main shopping thoroughfare where visitors will find Cartier, Rolex, Gucci, Tiffany and many more.

Given the neighborhood’s upscale reputation, it’s fitting that many of the city’s finest restaurants are located here. It’s easy for gourmands to enjoy a memorable meal on every street in the district.

This also is an excellent place to stay in Mexico City because of the museums. This is the home of the renowned National Museum of Anthropology as well as the Chapultepec Castle and the Modern Art Museum .

From beautiful parks to art galleries , it’s easy to see why this is one of the best neighborhoods in Mexico City.

In keeping with the upscale surroundings, the hotels in the district tend to be rather expensive . Visitors will find everything from high-rise versions of internationally recognized brand-name hotels to small boutique inns housed in historic properties.

There is a dearth of hostels, so those looking for a really affordable stay are better off in Centro.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MEXICO CITY IN POLANCO

  • ($$$)  Grand Fiesta Americana Chapultepec
  • ($$$)   Presidente InterContinental Mexico City, an IHG Hotel
  • ($$)   St. Isidro Suites Corporate Housing

3. Paseo de La Reforma, where to stay in mexico City for first timers

Paseo de La Reforma to stay in Mexico city

Think of La Reforma as the Times Square of Mexico City. Everything happens along this main thoroughfare. Monuments, shops, outdoor markets and nightclubs line every mile of this memorable street.

What’s more, you’ll find all sorts of hotel accommodations that are suitable for every budget and style.

The area along the Paseo de La Reforma is incredibly friendly to pedestrians , encouraging visitors to get out and explore.

It’s easy to get to El Angel de Independencia on foot, and there is an incredible number of eateries in the area serving authentic Mexican fare. Countless monuments line the boulevard, offering a broad survey of Mexican history.

Whether you walk or take a taxi, the whole city is accessible, making this one of the best areas in Mexico City to look for a hotel.

Because of the Paseo de La Reforma’s extension diagonally across the heart of the city, it is possible to find all sorts of accommodations .

Hostels costing just a few dollars per night are widely seen as are high-rise, new construction hotels with plenty of upscale amenities.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PASEO DE LA REFORMA

  • ($$$)  Sofitel Mexico City Reforma
  • ($$)  Casa Prim Hotel Boutique
  • ($)   One Ciudad de Mexico Alameda

Read also: Best things to do in Mexico City

4. Condesa, bohemian and trendy neighborhood

Condesa is one of the most popular areas in Mexico City

A Bohemian neighborhood that is undeniably hip, Condesa is one of the most popular areas in Mexico City. The boulevards are wide and lined with graceful trees, and art nouveau and art deco architecture dominate the district.

Inside the buildings, visitors find an eclectic collection of art galleries , bars, restaurants and shops. The younger crowd loves Condesa after dark for its many clubs and night spots .

Condesa’s trendiness comes at a price. Many people live here, and it is one of the most expensive districts in Mexico City. Nonetheless, it also is one of the most charming.

Its centerpiece is lovely Parque Mexico , where most of the city’s dog population spends the day while their human counterparts are at work. Live music and other performances are frequently given here. Moreover, this is a wonderful place to enjoy a walk or a jog.

In keeping with its Bohemian yet expensive reputation, visitors will find a range of accommodations here. Tourists who want to stay in Mexico City where the cool young crowd hangs out will love it.

It’s filled with trendy boutique hotels and smaller properties with distinctive charm. Prices tend to be high, but bargains can be found by the determined. This is not the section for finding an inexpensive hostel.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MEXICO CITY IN CONDESA

  • ($$$)   Hippodrome Hotel Condesa
  • ($$)  Hotel Villa Condesa  
  • ($)  Hotel Roosevelt

5. Roma, excellent place to stay in Mexico City for travelers on any budget

Roma is a equally Bohemian and chic neighbor in Mexico city

Made famous in a well-received Academy Award-winning film, Roma is Condesa’s equally Bohemian and chic neighbor . It lies to the immediate west of the city’s historic center, making it easy to reach from that district.

Established in the early twentieth century, La Roma started out as an enclave of the upper classes. It became distinctly middle class in the second half of the century, with the 1985 earthquake bringing a downturn in the district’s fortunes.

All of that is now in the past, and gentrification is running riot in Roma. The streets are lined with art galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Nonetheless, the neighborhood remains largely residential . As in Condesa, Art Nouveau and Art Deco buildings are found here in abundance.

Most streets in this area are quiet . Large, leafy trees provide a pleasant contrast with all of the development in the region. The sprawling Jardin Ramon Lopez Velarde dominates the landscape to the east. Several smaller parks and public squares also are located within Roma.

As a largely residential neighborhood, this is one of the areas in Mexico City that doesn’t have a great deal of options for accommodations. Nonetheless, what is there includes a tolerably wide selection.

Hostels charging just a few dollars per night are found nearby, and there also are modern hotels with plenty of amenities that cost a few hundred dollars per night. Consequently, Roma could be an excellent place to stay in Mexico City for travelers on any budget .

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ROMA

  • ($$$)  Brick Hotel
  • ($$)   Stanza Hotel
  • ($)  Hotel Monarca

See also: Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta , where to stay in Cancun , where to stay in Playa del Carmen , where to stay in Tulum , where to stay in the Riviera Maya

6. Zona Rosa, where to stay in Mexico City for nightlife

Zona Rosa one of the best place for you to stay in Mexico City

Effervescent and relentlessly touristy, Zona Rosa never seems to stop, let alone slow down. This is Mexico City’s most gay-friendly neighborhood, though it quickly becomes clear that all are welcome in this eclectic corner.

If your idea of a good time is browsing through trendy shops by day and dancing through the night at a series of bars and clubs, then this is the best place for you to stay in Mexico City.

Zona Rosa was initially developed late in the nineteenth century to accommodate European immigrants and well-to-do residents of the city center who were looking for a quieter, less busy option.

With the Mexican Revolution underway between 1910 and 1920, development in the district was put on hold for many years. The resolution of that conflict allowed building to continue. By the 1950s, artists and intellectuals were beginning to flood into the neighborhood.

The new residents gave Zona Rosa a Bohemian flair, attracting plenty of upscale bars and restaurants. International dignitaries would be brought here to dine, but the halcyon days were destined to end.

Many of the more respectable businesses began leaving in the 1980s, making way for increasingly touristy offerings along with prostitution and other criminal enterprises.

With the turn of the century, Mexico City officials turned their sights to revitalizing the neighborhood. They succeeded in many ways, though it is generally not considered safe to walk here at night, and it is inadvisable to get too drunk when out and about.

This is one of the city’s premier areas for shopping and nightclubs of all sorts. While some night spots are relatively straightforward, others seem to try to outdo each other in terms of outrageousness.

As mentioned, Zona Rosa is incredibly gay-friendly, with numerous bars, clubs and other businesses catering to the community.

While visitors will find plenty of intriguing shops here, they also should be prepared to encounter numerous erotic shops, which may mean that this is not the most family-friendly neighborhood .

Nonetheless, the antique vendor s are charming, and the frequent festivals are fun. People are warm and welcoming here. Moreover, there are plenty of wonderful restaurants that beg to be sampled.

Whatever type of accommodations you prefer, you can probably find it in the Zona Rosa. Hotel prices tend to be cheap , even for the more upscale properties in the neighborhood. There are even a few hostels in the zone. However, they tend to be a bit more expensive than they are in other neighborhoods.

If you prefer the other end of the spectrum, Zona Rosa also is home to some surprisingly upscale properties that feature fitness centers, spas, swimming pools and many other amenities. These will cost several hundred dollars per night.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MEXICO CITY IN ZONA ROSA

  • ($$$)   Eurostars Zona Rosa Suites
  • ($$)   Hotel Geneve CD de Mexico
  • ($)  Ibis Styles Mexico Zona Rosa

7. Coyoacan, coolest area to stay in Mexico City

Coyoacan nice place to stay in Mexico city

This is a beautiful, colonial-era neighborhood that features cobblestone streets and old-world charm . It’s found about five miles from the city center, and it can be reached by Line 3 of the Metro. The town square here is gorgeous. Many people come to see it and the collection of superb museums.

Coyoacán once was the home of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo . After Leon Trotsky was exiled from the USSR, he lived here as well. Despite all of the old-world grandeur, the air is tinged with a counter-culture feel. A fun hippie market is held here every weekend.

Not so long ago, Coyoacán was independent of Mexico City, and that spirit of independence remains strong in the community. When visiting the coffee shops and cafes, visitors are likely to encounter spirited political and cultural debates.

Mexico’s national university is found nearby, which likely contributes to the intellectual and progressive atmosphere. Many art schools are located within the district, so expect to find several galleries and exhibitions.

This is the district where you’ll find the excellent Frida Kahlo Museum where you can learn about her work and life. Museums dedicated to Diego Rivera and Leon Trotsky also are found here. The National Museum of Popular Culture similarly is located in Coyoacán. This institution features an extensive collection of folk art.

Another fascinating spot is the Los Coyotes Zoo with its collection of native animals. Most visitors won’t want to miss an opportunity to explore Vivero Coyoacán , the neighborhood’s principal park. It is the home of the famous Fountain of the Coyotes, which is renowned across the city.

Whether you are enjoying the museums or the traditional Mexican market in Coyoacan, you may reach the conclusion that this is one of the best neighborhoods in Mexico City.

Unfortunately, there’s not an overabundance of accommodation choices here. Most are clustered around the neighborhood’s perimeter. The good news is that they are a fairly eclectic mix.

Given the proximity of the university, cheap hotels are easy to find, though there seems to be a shortage of hostels. Most of the other hotels are reasonably priced .

You won’t find much for recognizable brand names. What you get instead are unique guest houses, inns and hotels that are far more personable and interesting. If you can find accommodations here, you’ll probably love it.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN COYOACAN

  • ($$$)   Agata Hotel Boutique & Spa
  • ($$)   Suites Perisur Apartamentos Amueblados
  • ($)   One Periferico Sur

8. San Angel, lovely cobblestone streets and colonial-era architecture

San Angel: an ideal home base to stay in Mexico city

This gorgeous neighborhood is an ideal home base for people who love history and culture. In its earliest days, Spanish nobility retreated here to get away from the bustle and heat of the city.

Expansion soon saw the area absorbed into the city proper, but the neighborhood still retains its lovely cobblestone streets and colonial-era architecture .

The Bazar del Sabado is held here each weekend, and it is a “must do” for visitors. The Saturday Bazaar is held in the Plaza San Jacinto which is the center of the neighborhood. Spending a whole day browsing here is easy as this outdoor market features some of the best handicrafts made across Mexico.

In addition to the bazaar, the Plaza is the site of historic events, and it is surrounded by graceful buildings and fascinating restaurants. Near the Plaza is the Museo Casa del Risco with its superb exhibition of art from Mexico and Europe.

The Templo y Ex-Convento del Carmen , which was built in 1615, also is nearby. In addition to an architecturally impressive edifice, the grounds of the monastery boast enormous gardens that are waiting to be explored.

Visitors will find numerous parks, charming restaurants and unusual boutiques throughout the district. Arriving here is easy thanks to Line 1 of the Metrobus system. Accommodation choices are few and far between in the district.

What there is, however, is relatively inexpensive yet quaint. Bed and breakfasts, guest houses and inns offer plenty of personality and won’t break the bank.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MEXICO CITY IN SAN ANGEL

  • ($$$)   Casa San Jacinto
  • ($$)  Stara San Angel Inn Boutique Hotel
  • ($)   Coyotito Beds San Ángel, suites con encanto!

9. Santa Fe, one of Mexico City’s newest neighborhoods

Santa Fe: fabulous and modern place in Mexico city

This highly commercial area is one of Mexico City’s newest neighborhoods. It’s filled with gleaming skyscrapers , but it doesn’t lend itself particularly well to being a place to stay in Mexico City.

Everything looks fabulous and modern . However, there is a definite shortage of accommodations here.

If you were blindfolded and dropped in Santa Fe, you could be forgiven for believing that you had been left in an American city. This is where you’ll find the local offices for many multinational corporations and high-tech businesses.

Young professionals with plenty of money settle here in droves in high-rise condominiums and apartments. Accordingly, a restaurant and nightlife scene has sprung up here to cater to them. Santa Fe also boasts a sprawling shopping center filled with upscale shops.

The area is well-served by buses, so it’s not much of a problem to make the 12-mile journey from the city’s center . Mass transit to the neighborhood is an absolute necessity because so many workers must commute here. Predictably, morning and evening rush hours produce a traffic jam of epic proportions.

Santa Fe sprang up quickly in the 1980s and 1990s. While great attention was paid to gleaming skyscrapers, there seems to have been little overall planning. Accordingly, you’ll find few parks, greens spaces or even pathways for pedestrians . This is not one of the most visitor-friendly areas in Mexico City.

Accommodations are few and far between, congregating mostly on the neighborhood’s perimeter. Some are surprisingly inexpensive yet modern and include some nice conveniences like 24-hour restaurants.

If you’re willing to pay top dollar in the neighborhood, you can reserve a room at a full-service resort with restaurants, spa and swimming pools.

Santa Fe is a fairly safe neighborhood , but it is far away from most of Mexico City’s top sights , and it lacks much in the way of interest for tourists. The lodgings here are exceptionally nice, so it may still be a worthwhile choice.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MEXICO CITY IN SANTA FE

  • ($$$)   Live Aqua Urban Resort Mexico
  • ($$)   Hilton Garden Inn Mexico City Santa Fe
  • ($$)   Hyatt House Mexico City Santa Fe

Photo: Shutterstock

2 thoughts on “Where to Stay in Mexico City: 9 Best Areas”

Brilliant on areas – thank you!

Very helpful, I am planning to stay in Polanco area

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A view of Mexico city's skyline during a sunset

Three US tourists found dead in Mexico City Airbnb from carbon monoxide

Friends, who were there to celebrate Day of the Dead holiday, died from apparent carbon monoxide poisoning last week, officials say

Three American tourists were found dead last week in a Mexico City Airbnb apartment they were renting after apparent carbon monoxide poisoning, Mexican authorities confirmed to Reuters on Wednesday.

Friends Kandace Florence, Jordan Marshall and Courtez Hall were visiting the Mexican capital to celebrate the Day of the Dead holiday, according to US news site WAVY, based in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where Florence and Marshall were from.

The Mexico City attorney general’s office, which opened an investigation into the deaths, said the victims’ bodies were found on 30 October and that studies indicated they died of carbon monoxide poisoning.

The victims were staying in La Rosita, a neighborhood in the Mexico City borough of Cuajimalpa and close to the upscale Santa Fe business district.

Airbnb did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but in a comment to Bloomberg said the deaths were a “terrible tragedy” and that the company was ready to assist with inquiries from authorities.

The tragedy comes as an influx of Americans and other foreigners visit and move to Mexico. Last month, Mexico City’s government signed an agreement with the short-term rental site in what Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum described as an effort to boost the number of “digital nomads” coming to Mexico City.

Gas leaks have caused other deadly incidents involving tourists in Mexico. In March, an explosion caused by a gas leak killed two people and left 18 injured in a restaurant in a beachside tourist town of Playa del Carmen. In 2018, a family of four from Iowa was found dead at their vacation condominium in Akumal, about an hour from Cancún, suffocated from gas.

The US embassy in Mexico City did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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An immigrant visa is a document issued by a U.S. consular officer abroad that allows you to travel to the United States and apply for admission as a legal permanent resident (LPR). An immigration inspector of U.S. Customs and Border Protection of the Department of Homeland Security makes the final decision as to whether or not to admit you as an LPR. Once you are admitted as an LPR, you generally have the right to live and work in the United States permanently. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services of the Department of Homeland Security will mail your permanent resident card (often called a “green card”) to your new address in the United States, usually within three months of your entry into the United States. Please see 9 FAM 502.1-3 for a list of classification symbols and a brief description of each.

Getting an immigrant visa usually means that you will be able to live and work in the United States for as long as you want. A nonimmigrant visa, on the other hand, is generally for short-term visitors to the United States. You cannot stay in the United States permanently on a nonimmigrant visa, and you generally cannot work. A nonimmigrant visa is sometimes informally called a “tourist visa” but can be issued for reasons other than tourism, such as medical treatment, business or study. Please see our nonimmigrant visa page for more information.

There are three basic methods for obtaining an immigrant visa: 1.through a family relationship with a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident 2.through employment 3.through the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (the visa lottery) Most applicants in Mexico obtain their immigrant visas via family relationships. The first step in obtaining a family-based immigrant visa is for your relative (the petitioner) to file a Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) by mail with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of the Department of Homeland Security. Once your relative has filed a petition for you, you may check its status by accessing the USCIS Case Status Search Page. You may obtain an immigrant visa through employment rather than through a family member. More information on obtaining an immigrant visa through employment rather than through a family member is available on USCIS’s Green Card through a Job page. Please see the Fiscal Year 2016 Diversity Visa Entry Instructions. Note that the registration period for 2015 has closed. You may check this page for the Fiscal Year 2016 Diversity Visa Entry instructions in approximately September 2014.

Once U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of the Department of Homeland Security approves an immigrant visa petition, USCIS sends the approved petition to the Department of State’s National Visa Center in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

The Department of State’s National Visa Center (NVC) retains the approved petition until the case is ready for adjudication by a consular officer abroad. Petitions may remain at NVC for several months or for many years depending on the visa category and country of birth of the visa applicant. When a beneficiary’s (the beneficiary is the person on whose behalf the petition was filed) priority date appears about to become current, NVC sends the petitioner a bill for processing Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act) and sends the beneficiary a Form DS-261 (Choice of Address and Agent). Once the Form I-864 processing fee is paid, NVC sends the Form I-864 and related instructions to the petitioner. Once NVC receives the completed Form DS-261 from the applicant, NVC mails a bill for the immigrant visa fee to the agent designated on the Form DS-261. Once the immigrant visa fee is paid, NVC sends the Instruction Package for Immigrant Visa Applicants to the agent. You or your agent must follow the directions in the Instruction Package for Immigrant Visa Applicants exactly. Failure to do so could result in a delay in your case and could even cause you to lose your chance to live and work in the United States. Once NVC completes its administrative processing of your case, the case file is sent to the Immigrant Visa Unit of the U.S. Consulate General, Ciudad Juarez. NVC will notify you by mail when this occurs.

The priority date, in the case of a family-based immigrant visa petition, is the date your petition was filed (not the date it was approved). Family-based immigrant visas are divided into two broad groups, immediate relative cases and preference cases. An immediate relative family-based petition is filed by a U.S. citizen on behalf of a spouse, parent, or child. A preference family-based petition is filed by a U.S. citizen on behalf of a son, daughter, or sibling; or by a legal permanent resident on behalf of a spouse, son or daughter, or child. Because the law does not limit the number of immediate relative visas, the priority date is normally irrelevant in such cases (please see the 9 FAM 502.1-1(d)(1) for the notable exception, related to the Child Status Protection Act). Workload permitting, the Immigrant Visa Unit may begin processing the approved petition upon receipt from the Department of State’s National Visa Center or the Department of Homeland Security. The priority date in a preference case, however, matters greatly. The law limits the number of preference visas available. All categories of family-based preference visas are currently “oversubscribed” (i.e., there are more people who want visas than there are visa numbers available). Your priority date, along with your visa category and nationality, determines whether a visa number is available or whether you must wait. Once your priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed in the most recent Visa Bulle

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Watch CBS News

U.S. warns spring break travelers to Mexico to "exercise increased caution"

February 29, 2024 / 6:39 PM EST / CBS News

The U.S. on Thursday warned American citizens traveling to Mexico for spring break to exercise increased caution.

"Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations," the U.S. Mission to Mexico said in a news release. It advised travelers to maintain situational awareness and promptly leave potentially dangerous situations.

The advisory said travelers should be particularly cautious in downtown areas of popular spring break destinations, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark.

Thursday's advisory also cautioned against using synthetic drugs, unregulated alcohol and counterfeit medication while in the country, noting previous, correlated deaths and injuries of U.S. citizens after using or consuming such substances.

The warning came after several recent incidents concerning foreign tourists in Mexico. Earlier this month,  an American woman and a man from Belize were killed in what appeared to have been a dispute between drug dealers at a beach club in the resort city of Tulum.

In May 2023,  a Canadian tourist was shot to death in Mexico's Pacific coast beach town of Puerto Escondido, days after a tourist from Argentina died after being attacked by a machete in another coastal town in Oaxaca. An American tourist was  shot in the leg in March 2023 by unidentified assailants in the resort town of Puerto Morelos on Mexico's Caribbean coast.

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S. Dev is a news editor for CBSNews.com.

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Mexico City travel guide: art and design

Modern vibrancy, design legacy and ancient heritage puts Mexico's jewel alongside other art capitals of the world

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A colourful mural in the rooftop restaurant at the hotel Andaz Mexico City Condesa

Being in Mexico City feels, I imagine, like being in Paris in the 1920s, or London in the 1960s: at the epicentre of a new world. 

Art, design, music, fashion, food… Mexico's thriving capital wasn't named Time Out's 2023 top cultural destination in the world for nothing. A high-altitude valley ringed by mountains is an appropriately dramatic setting for a megalopolis built on ancient ruins: the famed Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. Even for this lifelong Londoner, the sheer scale of Mexico City is dizzying. I was grateful for the 17th-floor rooftop restaurant of my hotel, the Andaz Mexico City Condesa : its 360-degree views of the city, with the high rises of the bohemian La Condesa neighbourhood reflected in the infinity pool, offer a way to get your bearings. 

There's so much to do in a city of over 20 million people that it's best to narrow your focus. With its 170 museums, innumerable galleries, a world-famous annual art fair, architectural history and punchy street murals, the home of Frida Kahlo sits deservedly alongside Rome or Barcelona as an art capital of the world. If you know your avant-garde from your art deco, this is the city for you. 

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What to see and do

Warm colours welcome you to the house of famed architect Luis Barragán

The newly opened hotel, Andaz's second in Mexico and 25th globally, is inspired by the work of famed Mexican architect Luis Barragán, so it would be spurious not to begin with Casa Estudio Luis Barragán , the studio-turned-museum of the 20th-century titan, 10 minutes' walk away.

The nearly intact 1948 building is considered one of the most important 20th-century homes. It blends modern landscaping with light, colour and clever use of corners to bring the outdoors inside, emblematic of Barragán's style. This stylish-but-soothing Unesco World Heritage Site, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, will give you the worst kind of interior design envy – and that's to say nothing of its art collection, with works by Picasso and homegrown Diego Rivera. The warm, glowing pink walls make Farrow & Ball's Dead Salmon look like… well, dead salmon. 

Head around the corner to the tiny Kurimanzutto , a large warehouse room that's one of Mexico City's trendiest galleries and contemporary art spaces, showcasing 33 international artists.

Next, walk via the artificial 19th-century lake to another of the many artistic offerings in the bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec forest): the National Museum of Anthropology . It's an ode to the country's rich pre-Hispanic history, and one of the world's foremost archaeological museums. Contemporary art lovers also shouldn't miss the Museo de Arte Moderno (MAM) or nearby Rufino Tamayo Museum.

If street art is preferred, the tree-lined nextdoor neighbourhood of La Roma is home to a corner of delight: La Romita. A little plaza and its adjoining tiny cobbled streets are plastered in the type of spontaneous murals most cities would commission at great cost. The brightness of the colours, and the ambition of the murals, contrast with the shabby, pre-gentrified village vibe. 

Walking around the shaded avenues of Roma Norte and La Condesa gives design fans something to look at. There seems to be some sort of local competition for the most attractive, art nouveau-style security bars on the windows, usually ringed by bright colours beloved of Mexicans or a dramatic flourish of flowers. 

It's a fair way south from artistic La Condesa, but a must-see is the Frida Kahlo Museum . Her Casa Azul (Blue House) was home to arguably the most famous female artist of all time – and certainly, the international face of Mexico – as well as tempestuous Diego Rivera, who she married twice, or one of their many lovers. 

It's hard to describe the sensation of seeing her familiar work in the context of her cobalt home. Looking out from her bedroom window to her lush jungle of a garden, or standing by her painting table to see your own face in the mirror, surrounded by her pre-Columbian artefacts, European antiques and Mexican folk art, as well as her crutches and carefully adapted indigenous costumes that hid her broken body is like a glimpse inside her mind. 

A word of warning: you have to buy your tickets (270 Mexican pesos, or about £12.50) via the official website, at least a week in advance. If you do not have the right ticket for the correct time slot, you won't get in, even if you are a reincarnation of Kahlo herself. 

Don't try to visit Frida Kahlo's Blue House without booking in advance

Casa de Cultura Romita, in the trendy La Roma neighbourhood

Where to stay: Andaz Mexico City Condesa

Even pillars in the rooms are given an artistic makeover at Andaz

Andaz, a luxury boutique brand, is a Hindi word for "personal style". Andaz Mexico City Condesa can attest to that. 

The neon-lit mirrored staircase that goes up to the lobby is outrageously flamboyant, while the lobby itself is understated elegance in soothing earthy colours, neatly encapsulating the two faces of this hotel. 

Downstairs there are little touches like QR codes with information about the contemporary artwork and a discreetly tucked away Pasa Spa & Wellness centre, where you can have one of the most effective massages I've ever experienced. 

The relaxed Derba Matcha Café is a popular spot for young professionals for a smoothie or latte. The warm pastel velvets, plentiful plants and pastries are an influencer's paradise. The chef claims his concoctions are better than any you can get in Paris, which I put to the test.

The compact, ultra-modern rooms are also everything you'd expect from five-star boutique luxury: off-the-charts thread counts, sophisticated lighting systems and gleaming marble bathrooms. But the designers evidently had fun, with the bright pink obelisk and the vinyl records that seemed to have been chosen for their tantalising covers. 

The Tulum beach-style 17th-floor Cabuya Rooftop , a boho bar and restaurant, is accessible via a bright pink geometric-patterned lift. The walls are covered with vibrant murals by artist Edoardo Aldama: whales, turtles, octopuses and seabirds in primary colours, lit by lanterns dangling from the foliage ceiling. 

This is a destination: a place to be seen. The seafood-dominated menu, inspired by the flavours of the Baja and Yucatán regions, make it too compelling to leave. I particularly adored the sweet and sour octopus and fresh ceviche . 

The hotel goes on an unexpected tangent with its 'Wooftop' Beer Garden & Canine Club, a dog-friendly restaurant with a terrace. You can sip a beer and enjoy some nachos or a blackened fish taco, made in a street-food truck, while your pampered pooch sits on a bean bag next to you. There's also a doggy exercise area and – you'd have to see it to believe it – a special dog menu serving "vegan barkcini", non-alcoholic "beer for dogs" and the "woof slider" of ground beef, rice and beet. 

It's the kind of place a certain type of influencer would come to celebrate their dog's birthday – out-of-place kitsch, but very fun.

While this hotel might not be right for honeymooners or families with young kids, it's ideal for trendy professionals, fashion designers or bohemian art lovers.

Andaz Condesa's rooftop infinity pool offers the best view of the megalopolis

How to get there

There are direct flights from London to Benito Juárez International Airport, with British Airways or Virgin Atlantic, but at nearly 12 hours it's a big ask. Stop off en route on Mexico's east coast – direct flights from all over the UK will get you to Cancún in just over 10 hours – and fend off the jet lag on the beach. 

Then it's just a 2.5-hour flight west to Mexico City, and a short cab or subway ride into the city. 

Harriet Marsden was a guest of Andaz Mexico City Condesa , and luxury tour operator, Untold Story Travel , which offers bespoke travel experiences to Mexico and destinations around the world. 

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Harriet Marsden is a writer for The Week, mostly covering UK and global news and politics. Before joining the site, she was a freelance journalist for seven years, specialising in social affairs, gender equality and culture. She worked for The Guardian, The Times and The Independent, and regularly contributed articles to The Sunday Times, The Telegraph, The New Statesman, Tortoise Media and Metro, as well as appearing on BBC Radio London, Times Radio and “Woman’s Hour”. She has a master’s in international journalism from City University, London, and was awarded the "journalist-at-large" fellowship by the Local Trust charity in 2021. 

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U.S. Warns Spring Breakers Headed to Mexico, Jamaica or the Bahamas

In recent weeks, American travelers to some of the busiest international destinations during spring vacation have been urged by the State Department to exercise extra caution.

A sunset over a calm harbor turns the water and the ski into hues of dark blue and black.

By Vjosa Isai

Don’t wander off the resort after dark. Keep the flashy clothing and jewelry to a minimum. Stay aware of your surroundings. Those are some of the travel rules that Ginger Moore, a retired logistics analyst from Panama City, Fla., adheres to on her solo trips throughout the Caribbean.

Ms. Moore, 75, has always felt safe during her stays in Jamaica, where she’s returning for the fourth time on Wednesday. But this year, while she’s still happy to take a trip, a travel advisory for Jamaica, reissued in January by the U.S. State Department, has elevated her concerns.

“I’m sure there are parts, just like the United States, that you can go into that are not recommended,” said Ms. Moore. Nonetheless, she has taken new precautions for her upcoming trip, like packing additional health supplies and purchasing a security bar for the sliding balcony door of her hotel room.

In recent weeks, the State Department and U.S. Embassies have issued new and updated advisories urging travelers to Mexico, Jamaica and the Bahamas — some of the busiest international spring break destinations — to exercise extra caution after recent violent events, some in tourist areas. Security experts suggest that the advice is largely consistent with advisories of previous years.

Caroline Hammer, a global security analyst at the risk intelligence company RANE , said tourists should interpret the advisories as warnings to exercise caution and avoid specific hot spots for crime, but not as a blanket rule to restrict their travel anywhere in the region.

What do the travel warnings say?

Warnings about spring break travel to certain parts of Mexico came in recent days, while the security alerts and updated travel advisories for Jamaica and the Bahamas were issued in late January.

The State Department has classified Jamaica at Level 3 since 2022, recommending visitors “ reconsider travel ” because of episodes of violent crime. The agency reissued the travel advisory in January to also alert tourists about access to medical services, and warned that “sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.”

Kamina Johnson Smith, Jamaica’s foreign affairs and foreign trade minister, said in a statement published two days later that the country made “serious improvements” in responding to crime and in its health care infrastructure and disagreed with the scope of the advisory.

“The government of Jamaica is disappointed that the language used does not reflect our country’s significant progress,” she said.

Data from the Jamaican national police force shows that as of March 1, several crime categories, including murders, break-ins and rapes, had declined compared with the same period in 2023, though shootings and assault had risen.

In the Bahamas, gang violence and a number of murders prompted U.S. officials to urge tourists to “ exercise increased caution ,” especially in the cities of Nassau and Freeport. Recreational boat tours, jet ski rentals and other water activities are unevenly regulated, the advisory additionally notes, and have led to injuries and deaths.

In early February, two female travelers said their drinks had been spiked during a cruise stop in the Bahamas and accused resort staff of sexually assaulting them .

Last week, in a statement specifically discussing spring break travel, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico reiterated precautions outlined in a State Department travel advisory, last updated over the summer, issued because of crime and kidnappings. It reminded tourists to be cautious when visiting the downtown areas of Cancún, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, all in Quintana Roo State.

The advisory also recommends travel by toll road in daytime hours, and to remain near major cities, which have a heightened police presence and other emergency services.

What’s behind the warning in Mexico?

Organized crime groups in Mexico have largely kept violent activity outside resorts to avoid hurting the tourism industry, said Ms. Hammer, of RANE. The cartels, she said, depend on tourists themselves, by selling drugs to visitors and extorting local businesses, and it would generate a heightened response from the Mexican government.

In 2023, tourists spent close to $3.1 billion in Mexico, up 10 percent over 2022, according to data from the tourism ministry, with many travelers Cancún-bound.

A handful of violent episodes last year included the kidnappings of two Americans who had crossed the border near Brownsville, Texas, and were found dead, as well as heated disputes between rival taxi and Uber drivers in Cancún. The violence came on the heels of a number of gunfights and assassinations in late 2021 and early 2022 that rattled tourists along the Riviera Maya .

“The good news is that those incidents that have been reported inside of resorts are extremely, extremely rare,” Ms. Hammer said.

In its latest advisory, the State Department warns that shootings by rival gangs, “while not directed at tourists,” have caught some in the crossfire, even on resorts. Last month, an American woman was killed during a drug-related shooting in a beach club in Tulum. Prosecutors in Quintana Roo said she was a bystander.

Despite these incidents, the security picture in Mexico has generally remained unchanged, said Zachary Rabinor, the founder and president of Journey Mexico , a luxury travel company.

“A lot of this is kind of general, stereotypical fears,” he said, adding that tourists shouldn’t interpret violent episodes as sweeping events, especially in resort destinations most popular with visitors.

“There are definitely still areas that are troublesome, but in general, they are not where tourists are going,” Mr. Rabinor said.

What’s behind the warning for the Bahamas?

In January, the Bahamian prime minister, Philip Davis, shared his government’s plan to tamp down criminal activity after a spate of murders, mostly gang-related.

“If you choose crime, you will face the full weight and might of the law,” Mr. Davis said during a national address on Jan. 24. The admonishing tone was a sharp turn from a celebratory moment just a month earlier, when the Bahamian tourism ministry announced the country had hit a record of eight million travelers in 2023.

While the police grapple with crime off resorts, the Bahamian foreign affairs ministry said, in a statement published shortly after the U.S. Embassy alert, that the country does not believe that tourists are under any new “elevated or increased security risk.”

What can you do to stay safe?

Effective safety measures can be as simple as remaining vigilant, and planning ahead by purchasing travel insurance and updating emergency contact lists. Other general steps recommended in the advisories include avoiding walking or driving off the resort areas at night, avoiding public transit and heeding local laws.

High traveler volumes around spring break may make tourism police forces, in places where they have them, slower to respond to emergency calls, Ms. Hammer of RANE Network warned.

Arranging transportation through a travel company or a resort for excursions or trips to the airport is highly recommended, said Scott Stewart, the vice president for intelligence at the security firm TorchStone Global.

“A lot of times, there’s not a lot of a gap between criminals and taxi drivers in many countries, so using a trusted transportation provider is huge,” said Mr. Stewart.

He also recommends “traveling gray,” a term used in security circles for keeping a low profile, such as by not displaying luxury items that might draw the attention of criminals.

The State Department’s reissued warning raised concerns for Ms. Moore, the traveler heading to Jamaica, but it hasn’t deterred her from making the trip.

“In the tourist areas, I just feel very comfortable,” she said. “I’ve just never had any bad experiences, knock on wood, and I love Jamaica. That’s why I keep going back.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the title of Philip Davis. He is the prime minister of the Bahamas, not its president.

How we handle corrections

Vjosa Isai is a reporter and researcher for The Times based in Toronto, where she covers news from across Canada. More about Vjosa Isai

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

Italy :  Spend 36 hours in Florence , seeking out its lesser-known pockets.

Southern California :  Skip the freeways to explore the back roads between Los Angeles and Los Olivos , a 100-mile route that meanders through mountains, canyons and star-studded enclaves.

Mongolia : Some young people, searching for less curated travel experiences, are flocking to the open spaces of this East Asian nation .

Romania :  Timisoara  may be the most noteworthy city you’ve probably never heard of , offering just enough for visitors to fill two or three days.

India: A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills , taking in the tea gardens and riding a train through the hills.

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

The Independent

Mexico volcano eruption cancels flights as warning issued to tourists

Mexico authorities have warned that the Popocatépetl volcano, 50 miles from the country's capital, has erupted 13 times in the past day and urged people to not try to climb it due to debris shooting out of the crater.

Volcanic ash from the Popocatépetl disrupted flights out of Mexico City 's largest airport on Tuesday and caused another airport even closer to the volcano to temporarily suspend activity.

Mexico City's Benito Juárez international airport said at least 22 flights were cancelled due to safety concerns after ash was found in some planes during safety checks. Other flights were rerouted to different parts of Mexico.

In Puebla , a city close to the volcano, airport operations were temporarily suspended on Wednesday due to the gas and fumes coming from the “Popo”. The airport said staff was hard at work cleaning up the ash floating down from above.

Mexico City's airport also warned Wednesday that “operations could be suspended” with its website showing a number of cancellations and delays.

“Our priority is safety in operations,” the airport's official account posted on X, formerly Twitter, adding that it is continually monitoring flight conditions.

According to the airport, the ash has produced a slew of safety concerns. Volcanic ashes are especially dangerous for aviation, not only because they reduce visibility but because they can act as an abrasive, damaging an aircraft’s wings and fuselage. In airports, the ashes can coat runways, hurt airport personnel and cause a number of other logistical issues.

The volcano has been active for half a million years and regularly erupts. Last year, large eruptions caused alarm after nearby towns were coated in ash, but volcanologists called the activity “nothing new or surprising”.

Its last major eruption happened more than a thousand years ago.

Elsewhere in South America hundreds of flights were canceled and dozens of others rescheduled in Argentina on Wednesday as unionized air travel workers went on a 24-hour strike nationwide to demand better wages, in the latest sign of social unrest in the South American country.

Most of the country’s more than 50 airports remained open but airlines had canceled hundreds of flights. At the country’s largest airport on the outskirts of Buenos Aires , the Ezeiza international airport, only the low-cost company Flybondi and American Airlines were operating Wednesday.

The state-owned Aerolíneas Argentinas said in a statement that 331 flights were affected by the strike called by the Association of Aeronautical Personnel, the Argentinian Association of Airline Pilots and the Union of Senior and Professional of Aero Commercial Companies.

The strike is expected to impact nearly 24,000 passengers of the state-owned airline alone, with an economic impact estimated at $2 million, according to Aerolíneas Argentinas.

The Independent is the world’s most free-thinking news brand, providing global news, commentary and analysis for the independently-minded. We have grown a huge, global readership of independently minded individuals, who value our trusted voice and commitment to positive change. Our mission, making change happen, has never been as important as it is today.

Popocatepetl volcano spews a column of ash and smoke, as seen from Santiago Xalitzintla

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