7-Day Mexico City Itinerary: What to See, Eat and Experience

Planning a 7-day Mexico City itinerary? This detailed guide covers the best things to do in Mexico City—from historic landmarks and world-class museums to unforgettable food and cultural experiences.

In 2016, the New York Times named Mexico City (CDMX Ciudad de México) the number one destination in their iconic “52 Places to Go” list. So, I put it on my bucket list. But, when I told my friends that my husband and I were planning a trip there, they were less than enthusiastic.

“Isn’t it dangerous? Isn’t it chaotic and polluted?” they questioned.

Well, I’ve just returned from my third trip to the capital of Mexico, and I’m happy to report that it is now one of my favourite cities on the planet. Yes, it has crime, as do all large cities. Yes, the traffic can be chaotic—same in Toronto. But the pros certainly outweigh the cons. Mexico City offers a unique kaleidoscope of culture, architecture, music and cuisine.

Here’s my recommendation for a week of fun, festivities and fabulous food.

Day 1 – Chapultepec Park and Anthropology Museum

Larger than New York’s Central Park, this green haven in the centre of the city—one of the largest and oldest in the Western Hemisphere—is an ideal place to start learning about Mexican culture and history.

I usually start at Museo Nacional de Antropología, considered one of the world’s best. It houses an extensive collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts, including the Aztec Sun Stone. History buffs could happily spend a week here, but I suggest you give it at least three hours. Free tours are available Tuesday to Saturday. The Sala Gastronómica restaurant serves dishes from various states in Mexico and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, so you can take a break and recharge.

Elsewhere in the park, we saw families picnicking, kids renting paddleboats for a spin around the man-made lake, and lovers strolling hand in hand. We bought mango popsicles from a fruit vendor and hiked up to nearby Chapultepec Castle, perched high on a hill. It is the only royal castle in North America to have been inhabited by monarchs—Habsburg Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota. Visit some of the opulently furnished rooms in the Alcázar Wing, admire the murals by Mexican masters and enjoy the vistas from the panoramic terrace gardens. Closed on Mondays.

Day 2 – Centro Histórico and Ballet Folklórico

Start at one of the world’s largest city squares, the Zócalo. If you arrive by 8:00 a.m., you can witness the ceremonial raising of the massive Mexican flag.

The 16th-century Metropolitan Cathedral has an impressive gilded altar. Next to it, explore the ruins of the main Aztec temple of Tenochtitlán. The Templo Mayor Museum houses significant artifacts from bygone eras.

Also on the Zócalo, visit the National Palace where famous Mexican muralist Diego Rivera’s massive work, The History of Mexico, adorns the stairwell.

Sanborns, known as the Casa de los Azulejos (House of Tiles), isn’t far away. This popular restaurant, its façade covered in blue and white tiles, was formerly a mansion. I love their Swiss-style enchiladas smothered in red sauce. It’s a good spot for dinner because tonight’s entertainment is just steps away.

One of Mexico City’s most beautiful buildings, the Palacio de Bellas Artes blends Art Nouveau and Art Deco design and houses one of the world’s most magnificent theatres. Here, the Ballet Folklórico de México performs when not touring elsewhere in the world. Founded in 1952 by choreographer Amalia Hernández, the company showcases folkloric dances from across Mexico. Colourful costumes, live music and dramatic lighting make for a spectacular show. The Tiffany glass curtain alone is worth the visit. At the finale, performers mingle with the audience—and if you’re lucky, you might be invited to dance.

Day 3 – Frida Kahlo Museum and Coyoacán

My favourite female artist is Frida Kahlo. I have Frida jewelry, Frida t-shirts and a portrait of her hanging on my dining room wall. That said, a visit to Mexico City necessitates a stop at the famous Casa Azul (Blue House) in the leafy neighbourhood of Coyoacán where Frida and her husband, Diego Rivera, lived and worked.

Theirs was a tumultuous relationship full of passion and torment. Many of the rooms—filled with personal belongings such as clothing, jewelry, sketches and books—feel as though the couple still lives in them. Frida’s bedroom has a special wheelchair where she worked at her easel. She suffered a debilitating tram accident as a teenager and spent much of her life in body casts and corsets, a reality reflected in many of her self-portraits.

Outside the Blue House, visitors can sit and enjoy the peaceful garden. Coyoacán is a beguiling Bohemian neighbourhood, well worth exploring. The local market is a great place to pick up a freshly squeezed juice and a taco.

Day 4 – Hot Air Balloon over Teotihuacán

You’ll need to rise early for this adventure, but you won’t regret it. Today you’re going hot air ballooning over the Pyramids of Teotihuacán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Located about 50 km northeast of Mexico City, Teotihuacán is a massive ancient city that flourished between the 1st and 7th centuries A.D. Known for its immense monuments—including the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon and the Avenue of the Dead—it once housed over 100,000 residents and was considered a major cultural and religious centre.

We flew with Volare and were impressed with the organization and skill of our pilot. The experience includes pre-boarding coffee, a 45-minute flight, sparkling wine toast, buffet breakfast and a flying certificate. Those early mornings can be chilly, so bring extra layers.

Day 5 – Xochimilco Floating Gardens

Today we’re heading south to Xochimilco where locals and visitors alike gather for lively canal cruises. You’ll be floating on the last remaining section of a vast lake system that once covered much of the Valley of Mexico.

The gardens are manmade agricultural islands built more than 700 years ago by the Aztecs. Visitors board colourful trajineras—flat-bottomed boats—and drift past flower and vegetable gardens. Along the way, mariachi bands hop aboard offering serenades, vendors sell snacks like roasted corn, and yes, there are plenty of cervezas. It’s festive, lively and uniquely Mexico City.

Day 6 – Roma, Condesa and Polanco Food Scene

After a few busy days, it’s time to explore Mexico City’s neighbourhoods. My favourites are Roma and neighbouring Condesa.

Start in Roma at Panadería Rosetta, where chef Elena Reygadas creates exceptional pastries and breads. Try the guava buns or pan dulce. Her Michelin-starred restaurant Rosetta is also an excellent dinner option.

Another favourite is Mercado Roma, a gourmet food hall filled with stalls from some of the city’s top chefs. For dessert, try churros or artisanal ice cream.

Condesa feels like a cross between a European neighbourhood and New York’s Greenwich Village. It’s filled with leafy parks, cafés, boutiques and galleries. Take a stroll through Parque México, especially on weekends when there’s often live music.

From here, take an Uber to Polanco. Visit the Museo Soumaya, a striking modern building covered in hexagonal tiles. Inside are more than 60,000 works of art, including a large collection by sculptor Auguste Rodin.

Polanco is also home to Pujol, one of the world’s top-rated restaurants. Reservations are essential. For something more casual, try Taquería El Turix for cochinita pibil tacos.

Day 7 – San Ángel Market and Art Scene

At the south end of the city, the Saturday San Ángel Market is the perfect place to spend a leisurely day browsing art and handicrafts.

The Plaza San Jacinto Art Fair fills the cobblestone square with local painters and sculptors. Nearby, you’ll find boutiques selling jewelry, clothing and artisan goods.

When it’s time to eat, head to Oxa in a charming courtyard setting. Chef Ana Martorell is known for her creative take on traditional Mexican cuisine. I especially loved her chilpachole, a spicy crab soup from Veracruz, and her desserts, including a chocolate soufflé baked in a clay pot.

Helpful Travel Tips for Mexico City

Transportation: Mexico City has affordable public transportation, but Uber is the easiest and most reliable way to get around.

Where to Stay:
 For a central stay near the Zócalo, the Gran Hotel Ciudad de México offers historic charm and views over the square.
In Condesa, Hotel Parque México is a great boutique option overlooking the park.

Tours: Consider booking with a local operator for curated cultural experiences.

More Mexico Travel Inspiration

Looking for more ideas? Explore additional Mexico travel stories by award-winning contributor Anita Draycott:

• Mérida, Mexico: A Cultural, Culinary and Nature Guide to the Capital of the Yucatán
• Insider’s Guide to Puerto Vallarta Mexico
• Los Cabos Luxury: All-Inclusive Quivira Golf Club and Pueblo Bonito Resorts is World Class

Final Thoughts on Visiting Mexico City

After three visits, Mexico City continues to surprise me. It’s a place where history and modern life intersect in the most vibrant ways—from ancient ruins and world-class museums to neighbourhood cafés and unforgettable meals.

If you’ve been hesitating, don’t. This is one of the most rewarding destinations in North America.

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