How to Spend 4 Days in Mexico City

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Last Updated on November 23, 2024 by sydabroad

Wondering how to spend 4 days in Mexico City? Then keep reading! 

Mexico City, with a massive population of over 9 million, is a vibrant metropolis filled with culture, traditions, and what I believe to be the best food in the world. This city is a captivating blend of beauty and chaos, and there are a few essential tips to keep in mind before you visit. I’ve crafted this comprehensive guide to help you create a perfectly curated itinerary for a seamless trip to Mexico City. 

Having traveled here several times–both solo and with friends for Día de los Muertos–I can confidently say it’s one of my favorite cities on the planet. If it’s not already on your bucket list, it certainly should be! By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Mexico City. 

Looking for more Mexico travel guides? 

• The Ultimate Guide to Day of the Dead in Mexico City 
• How to Spend a Long Layover in Mexico City 
• 13 Amazing Beach Clubs in Cabo to Visit 
• How to Plan the Perfect Cozumel Day Trip 
• How to Visit Tulum on a Budget

This post is about how to spend 4 days in Mexico City, Mexico. 

Visiting Mexico City | The Basics 

Currency = Mexican Peso 

The currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). 

1 USD = 19.98 Mexico Pesos

You will need cash in Mexico. In Mexico City, many places will accept your bank card however, local markets and street vendors may only accept cash. As for ATMs in Mexico City, I suggest using an ATM attached to a bank. This is usually the best thing to do no matter where you are traveling.  

Language = Spanish 

The official language in Mexico is Spanish and it is very helpful to know in Mexico City. You will hear some English but I found that many people only speak Spanish. If you have the Google Translate app you’ll be just fine getting around as an English speaker. 

I find that since Spanish is the number one spoken language in the world when traveling to Spanish-speaking countries, it is harder to get around than most because many people only speak Spanish. In many other countries, you’d be surprised that it’s not too hard to get around with English. it’s common to speak English as a second language in many places, especially in European countries. 

Whether you know Spanish or not, brushing up on some simple phrases you can use is polite. I love using Rosetta Stone and Duolingo to learn languages. 

Phone & Internet 

Mexico City is a massive city and for the most part, phone service is no issue. I found that most cafes and hotels had fast, reliable, wifi. Mexico City is a great digital nomad destination, because of their amazing infrastructure for remote workers.  

While traveling internationally, I suggest using an eSIM for affordable cellular data. Airalo makes it easy to purchase and install an eSIM suitable for the destination you are visiting. Purchase data with Airalo here.

Daily Budget 

Another thing that makes Mexico City one of the best cities in the world is how affordable it is. It’s a budget-friendly destination that every type of traveler can enjoy. If you are on a tight budget, plan to spend anywhere from $30 to $50 per day. 

On a more mid-range budget, expect to spend $50 to $100 and if you are a luxury traveler, the sky is the limit. At a minimum, expect to pay $5 to $10 per day on transportation, around $10 – $30 on food (this depends on whether you eat at restaurants or street food vendors), and around $20 per night for hostel dorms. 

Tipping in Mexico City

Tips are expected and appreciated in Mexico City. When dining out in restaurants expect to tip anywhere from 10-15%. Tipping culture is a thing in Mexico City but it’s not as drastic as in places in America. 

Can You Drink The Tap Water? 

No, don’t drink the tap water in Mexico City. Stick to bottled water to avoid getting sick. I brushed my teeth with the tap water and was fine, but do this at your own risk. 

Neighborhoods in Mexico City 

Centro Histórico (The Historic Center)

This is the historic heart of the city. It’s where you’ll find the Zócalo, Palacio de Bellas Artes, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. It’s a lively atmosphere and perfect for sightseeing. 

The Historic Center is the ideal place to stay if you want to be in the center of it all or you are visiting for Day of the Dead. Otherwise, if you are visiting solo, I’d suggest staying in another area, because the Historic Center can be quite chaotic to navigate on your own. 

Roma Norte 

Roma Norte is one of my favorite areas in Mexico City. This neighborhood is known for its Art Deco architecture, street art, trendy cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops. It’s vibrant and hip and very very safe. If I were to visit Mexico City solo again, I’d stay in Roma Norte–there are so many cute boutique hotels here!

Condesa 

Condesa is right near Roma Norte, known for its lush green spaces, upscale dining, and outdoor cafes. Again, if you are looking for a more chill atmosphere, Condesa is a great place to be. 

Polanco 

If you are looking for a luxury experience in Mexico City, stay in Polanco. This neighborhood is known for its high-end shopping, upscale dining, and luxury hotels. You’ll also find iconic attractions here such as Chapultepec Park and Museo Soumaya. 

Coyoacán

Coyoacán is a more traditional area with colonial architecture and a bohemian vibe. It’s known as the neighborhood of Frida Kahlo, where you’ll find charming plazas, artisan markets, and a relaxed atmosphere. 

How to Spend 4 Days in Mexico City | Itinerary Overview 

Day 1: Palacio de Bellas Artes, House of Tiles, Zócalo, Templo Mayor Museum, Monumento a la Revolución | Day 2:Mercado de Artesanías la Ciudadela, Frida Kahlo Museum, Coyoacan neighborhood, Xochimilco | Day 3: Roma Norte, Chapultepec Castle, National Museum of Anthropology, Polanco neighborhood | Day 4: Teotihuacan, Lucha Libre 

The Ultimate Mexico City Itinerary

Below you’ll find my 4 day itinerary to Mexico City. Feel free to rearrange these activities and adjust them depending on your preferences. I’ve included a map later in this guide so that you can easily see where everything is in the city. Alright, let’s get into how to spend 4 days in Mexico City! 

Day 1 | History & Culture 

Palacio De Bellas Artes

Arguably the most iconic landmark in CDMX, the Palacio de Bellas Artes is a stunning white building that serves as both the city’s performance hall and an art museum. To explore the art museum, you’ll need tickets, but you can also book an exclusive tour of the Palacio de Bellas Artes for a deeper experience. 

Pro-tip: Visit the Sears located in the same square for a fantastic view of the Palacio de Bellas Artes. Head to Finca Don Porfirio–it’s worth it for the views! My friends and I enjoyed a coffee and snacks there while taking in the scenery, making it a great spot for a quick bite.

House of Tiles 

The House of Tiles, an 18th-century gem, features intricate tile work making it a great photo spot in Mexico City. This is one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in the city. On three sides, the building is covered by blue and white colonial Talavera tiles. This pretty building reminds me of Portuguese architecture! 

If you are looking for lunch in the area, consider stopping by Sanborns, it’s in the House of Tiles and is a chain that offers a quick and convenient dining option. For something delicious and quick, head to Taquería Los Cocuyos, known for having the best street tacos at very affordable prices. 

The Zócalo

The Zócalo, also known as the Plaza de la Constitución, is the main square in the Historic Center of Mexico City. This lively area hosts events, parades, and concerts throughout the year. When I visited for Día de los Muertos, the Zócalo was vibrant with art installations and decorations everywhere. 

While exploring the Zócalo, don’t miss the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral. The entrance is free, and the cathedral’s architecture is absolutely stunning. 

One of my favorite things to do when I first get to a new city is take a free walking tour. This is a great way to get a sense of where everything is, learn about the city itself, and you’ll get the best local recs from your guide. I love booking my walking tours with GuruWalk – check them out here! But always remember to tip your guide.

Templo Mayor Museum

Located near the Zócalo, the Templo Mayor Museum is an archaeological site and museum in the heat of CDMX. Here, visitors can explore the Templo Mayor ruins, view Aztec artifacts, and enjoy both permanent and temporary exhibitions along with interactive displays. 

If you’re interested in learning about the rich history and cultural heritage of the Aztec civilization, the Templo Mayor Museum is a must-visit. 

Monumento a la Revolución 

This landmark, located in the heart of Mexico City, commemorates the Mexican Revolution and boasts one of the largest triumphal arches in the world. Completed in 1938, it offers an observation deck with stunning views of the city. Additionally, there’s an underground museum visitors can explore.

Day 2 | Coyoacán & Xochimilco 

Mercado de Artesanías la Ciudadela 

Start your second day in Mexico City at Mercado de Artesanías la Ciudadela, an amazing artisan market. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of handcrafted jewelry, home goods, clothing, and souvenirs. The market is colorful, bright, and fun–an absolute must during your 4 days in Mexico City! 

It can get quite busy, so I recommend arriving early. I visited right when it opened at around 10 AM, and it was perfect. 

Frida Kahlo Museum

After the market, make your way to the Frida Kahlo Museum. Located in the Coyoacán area, La Casa Azul was Frida Kahlo’s home and is now dedicated to her art and beautiful life. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, spots fill up quickly, as it’s one of the most popular museums in Mexico City. 

Book your tickets to the Frida Kahlo Museum here!

Exploring Coyoacán 

After visiting the museum, take some time to explore the charming Coyoacán neighborhood. Grab lunch at one of the local eateries before or after your visit. This historic area is known for its art, colonial architecture, and laid-back atmosphere.

While you’re there, don’t miss visiting the Coyoacán Market, Jardín Centenario, Plaza Hidalgo, and the stunning Parroquia San Juan Bautista, a beautiful baroque church.  

Xochimilco Boats 

Make sure to carve out time to visit Xochimilco! It takes about an hour to get there from Mexico City, but it’s well worth the trip. I traveled with a group of friends, and we split an Uber, which was quite affordable. Alternatively, you can take a bus. 

Xochimilco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southern Mexico City, known as the “Venice of Mexico” due to its extensive network of winding canals. These canals date back to the Aztecs and were originally used for transporting goods to and from the city. Today, they primarily serve tourists, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s history. 

Visiting Xochimilco

As you float along the colorful canals on trajineras (traditional boats), you’ll encounter food vendors (yes, you can buy beers!), artisans, and mariachi bands. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks (BYOB!), making it a fun experience. 

The canals can get quite busy, so be prepared for some “traffic.” You’ll also see gardens, known as chinampas, along the riverbeds, which were constructed by the Aztecs. You can book your boat online ahead of time or at the Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas for an hour at a cost of about 600 pesos (around $30). If you have a large group or are celebrating a special occasion, consider booking the boat for a longer period. 

Pro-tip: Be sure to book a tour or a local guide before you arrive, as there are people near the entrance who may try to scam you.  

Check out this top-rated guided day trip to Xochimilco, Coyoacan, the Frida Kahlo Museum, and UNAM. It includes pick up and drop off and all of your transportation. If you are just looking for a tour with the boats, book this 2.5 hour Xochimilco boat tour with food and drinks!

Day 3 | Museums & Parks 

Roma Norte 

Start your day in Roma Norte, one of Mexico City’s trendiest neighborhoods with a charming atmosphere and plenty of great cafes. Consider grabbing a coffee and breakfast at Madre Cafe, Panadería Rosetta, or Cafe Nin–both are fantastic choices, though you really can’t go wrong in this area! 

Spend some time wandering through Plaza Río de Janeiro, where you’ll find street art and murals scattered throughout the neighborhood. Don’t miss Casa Lamm, a cultural center housed in a stunning historic mansion that’s perfect for a quick visit or photo. 

Chapultepec Castle

Perched atop a hill in Chapultepec Park, Chapultepec Castle is an 18th-century palace that’s home to Mexico’s National Museum of History. The castle grounds are lovely to stroll around, with its striking black and white tiled floors and panoramic views over the city–perfect for photos. For a deeper dive into the history, consider booking a guided tour. 

National Museum of Anthropology 

Just a short walk away from Chapultepec Park, the National Museum of Anthropology is one of Mexico City’s most important museums and the largest anthropology museum in the world. Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts. Plan to spend a few hours here, and a guided tour is highly recommended for understanding the historical context of these incredible exhibits. 

Book a guided visit to the Anthropology Museum here!

Polanco Neighborhood 

In the evening, head to Polanco, an upscale neighborhood famous for its luxury hotels, high-end shopping, and elegant dining options. Wander through the area and stop by the iconic pink “Mexico Mi Amor” sign for a great photo op. For dinner, try to book a table at Pujol, one of the most acclaimed restaurants in Mexico City. 

El Moro Churerría 

End your day with authentic churros at El Moro Churrería. This is a must-try spot for churros, with multiple locations around the city. Don’t worry if there’s a line–it moves quickly, and you can watch the cooks frying and coating the churro in sugar as you wait. You can take them to go or dine inside, and don’t miss out on the chocolate sauce—it’s delicious! I make it a point to get these every time I’m in Mexico City. 

Day 4 | Half-Day Trip & Lucha Libre

Teotihuacan

A visit to Teotihuacan is a great half or full-day trip from Mexico City, located about 40 km northeast of the city. This ancient Mesoamerican city and religious center was founded around 100 BCE and flourished until around 500 CE. At its peak, it was the largest city in the Americas, with over 100,000 inhabitants, and one of the largest cities in the world at that time.  Highlights here include the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon, and the Avenue of the Dead. 

Teotihuacan, now located in the municipality of San Juan Teotihuacán, covers 32 square miles (83 km) and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico. 

While I explored Teotihuacan on my own, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend going without a guide. Without one, I found it difficult to fully appreciate the history and significance of what I was seeing. A guided tour will certainly make your visit more fascinating. 

This guided tour includes a visit to Teotihuacan, a glass factory, lunch, and more. I love this option because all your transportation is included. Check availability here. If you are looking for unique experience at Teotihuacan, check out this hot air balloon flight over the Teotihuacan Valley.

La Gruta for Lunch 

For a unique dining experience, visit La Gruta after exploring Teotihuacan. Just a short way from the ruins, this restaurant is located inside a cave and serves traditional Mexican dishes. If you’re visiting on a weekend, make sure to reserve a table in advance, as it can get quite busy. 

Lucha Libre at Arena Coliseo

Don’t miss a chance to attend a Lucha Libre show when in Mexico City! “Lucha Libre” translates to “freestyle wrestling” and is a form of professional wrestling famous in Latin America. Known for its colorful masks and high-flying stunts, the matches are highly choreographed and full of drama–it’s all for show, with predetermined outcomes, but it’s incredibly entertaining! My friends and I had a blast watching the show. 

Snacks, drinks, and beer are available in the stadium, and tickets range from $8 to $30. The shows typically last 2-3 hours. 

Areno Coliseo is a fantastic venue to catch a Lucha Libre match but note that it’s located in the Doctores neighborhood, an area known for being unsafe. I recommend taking an Uber to and from the arena rather than walking. Alternatively, you can also book a group tour that includes transportation. You are completely safe at the venue, as catching a Lucha Libre show here is very touristy.  

Check out this Lucha Libre show you can book on GetYourGuide. It includes local snacks, beer, tacos, and tickets to the show with a local guide. This is a great option for those not wanting to visit on their own.

Where to Eat and Drink in Mexico City

Alright, Mexico City has the best food in the world. Yes, I do think Mexican is the best cuisine and of course, you can find the best Mexican food here but Mexico City also does so many other cuisines very well. You can find foods from all around the world here in Mexico City. You really can’t go wrong. It would take you months to eat your way through this city. Anyway, here are some good recs:

• Pujol | One of CDMX’s most iconic restaurants. 
• Madre Cafe | This is a beautiful and delicious cafe in the Roma Norte neighborhood. It’s a cafe, bar, and restaurant – the perfect spot for any time of day. 
• Churrería El Moro | For the best churros. 
• Plantasia | A delicious Asian restaurant. 
• Taquería los Cocoyos | For the best street tacos. 
• Sanborns Madero | This is a historic building turned restaurant right near the main plaza. It’s located in the House of Tiles.
• La Frapp | For an amazing view of the ancient ruins in the main city square. They have delicious margaritas here!  
• Panadería Rosetta | An amazing bakery. 
• La Casa de Toño | The best traditional Mexican. 
• Cafe Nin | Another cute spot in Roma Norte. Cafe Nin is a cafe, bakery, and cocktail bar. It’s seriously so cute and the best coffee spot. 
• Librería Porrúa | A cool bookshop and cafe/restaurant. 
• Restaurant Danubio | A nice Spanish restaurant. 
• Hanky Panky Cocktail Bar | For drinks. 
• GinGin | Another great cocktail bar. 
• Cityzen | A wonderful rooftop bar at the Sofitel Hotel.
• Fifty Mils | A nice cocktail bar at the Four Seasons. 

Mexico City Itinerary Map

4 Days in Mexico City FAQs 

How many days is ideal for Mexico City? 

I recommend spending at least 4 days in Mexico City. This gives you enough time to explore the city’s main attractions and iconic sites on the outskirts. 

There is so much to see in Mexico City that you could easily spend weeks here and still have more to discover. But four days is a perfect amount of time to experience the different neighborhoods, enjoy the restaurants, cafes, and street food, and historic sites. All and all, I’d say anywhere from 4 to 7 days in Mexico City is perfect for your first trip. 

Where to Stay in Mexico City? 

Casa Pepe Hostel | Located in the Historic Center, this hostel is clean, comfortable, and ideally situated for exploring. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting to immerse themselves in the festivities. Check availability here.

Casa Cleo | For a boutique experience, Casa Cleo is a charming option with stylish decor and a more intimate atmosphere. Check availability here. 

Casa Polanco | This upscale choice in Polanco offers a luxurious stay in one of Mexico City’s most exclusive neighborhoods, perfect for those seeking a refined experience. Check availability here. 

Roso Guest House | Located in the Roma district, this is a beautiful boutique hotel with an on-site restaurant and a rooftop lounge. Check availability here. 

Casa Decu | This is a beautiful property in the Condesa area. Here, guests will enjoy modern furnishings, stylish amenities, and a timeless charm. Check availability here. 

Is Mexico City a walkable city? 

Depending on the area you are in, Mexico City can be quite walkable. Centro Histórico is pedestrian-friendly with many attractions and restaurants within walking distance. This area is typically very busy, so keep this in mind. 

The Roma and Condesa neighborhoods are also very walkable with beautiful parks, cafes, and boutiques all around. These areas are a bit more laid-back than central CDMX. I suggest choosing an area and spending a good amount of time there to make the most out of your days. If you are trying to get from area to area, you’ll sit in traffic for ages. 

How to get to Mexico City?

You Likely fly into Mexico City International Airport Benito Juárez (MEX). It’s a massive airport with international flights arriving from all over. On the other hand, there is Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU) which is 28 km away, and Toluca International Airport (TLC) which is 47 km away. 

I suggest flying into MEX, it’s the most central and very easy to get into the city center from here. Just note that if you fly into one of the airports outside of the city, it’s going to take ages with the traffic to reach the city center. 

What is the best way to get to Mexico City from the airport? 

For transportation from the airport to central Mexico City, Uber is a popular choice. It’s affordable, reliable, and widely used by locals and visitors alike – I’ve personally relied on Uber for every trip and found it convenient and safe. 

Alternatively, you can take the metro (subway), which is budget-friendly and efficient. However, if you have a lot of luggage, Uber or a private shuttle may be a more comfortable option. 

Pro-Tip: If you don’t want to worry about public transportation or ride-share once you arrive, you can schedule a private transfer with your accommodation. Just email your hotel or hostel, give them your flight details, and they will arrange airport pickup. 

How to get around Mexico City 

Mexico City is massive, but it’s relatively easy to navigate thanks to its extensive public transportation network. Keep in mind, though, that traffic can be heavy.

Here are the main ways to get around CDMX: 

Metro | At just 5 pesos per ride, the metro is a budget-friendly option and one of the quickest ways to move around the city, especially during peak hours. 

Metrobus | Running along major avenues, the Metrobus costs about 6 pesos per ride and is another economical way to get around. It’s great for routes that aren’t covered by the metro. 

Ride-Sharing Apps | Apps like Uber, Didi, and Cabify are affordable and widely available in Mexico City, often cheaper than in other major cities. I recommend using ride-sharing apps over traditional taxis for safety and convenience; they provide GPS tracking and a secure reliable experience. 

Pro-tip: For safety reasons, avoid using street taxis and stick with ride-sharing apps where your route is tracked. I’ve used ride-sharing services during all of my trips to Mexico City, and it’s been a smooth hassle-free experience.

Is Mexico City Safe? 

Mexico City is a massive city, and like any large city, you need to stay aware of your surroundings. That being said, stay in areas that are mentioned in this guide and avoid areas that are known to be unsafe. If you stay in tourist-friendly areas, they are safe and typically have a strong police presence. 

I have visited Mexico City three times and have not felt unsafe when staying in the touristy areas. I also suggest avoiding taxis and opting for rideshares instead. Additionally, watch for pickpockets in busy areas. 

All and all, stay up to date with safety from the U.S. State Department’s website, use common sense and you’ll have a great time. 

Weather in Mexico City

The rainy season is a thing in Mexico City and it takes place from June through October. Expect showers almost daily, so bring the appropriate clothing if you visit during the rainy season. I think the best time to visit Mexico City is during the dry season which is between December and April. Just make sure to pack SPF, the sun here is no joke. 

Visiting the Tolantongo Hotsprings in Mexico has always been on my bucket list. If you have extra time in Mexico City, I’d consider booking this day trip from Mexico City to the Tolantongo Hotsprings. It is a long day trip but they are so unique and well worth a visit!

I hope you enjoyed this post about how to spend 4 days in Mexico City! If you have any questions, comment below and make sure to check out my other Mexico travel guides here.

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