3 Days in Mexico City Things to Do Where to Stay and Must Sees

Mexico City, the vibrant capital of Mexico, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, culture, and delicious cuisine. If you’re planning a trip to this bustling metropolis, here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your experience.

First and foremost, be sure to stay hydrated as the high altitude of Mexico City can often cause dehydration. It’s also recommended to drink bottled water and avoid consuming tap water to prevent any stomach issues. Additionally, be mindful of your belongings and avoid displaying expensive items to prevent theft.

When it comes to transportation, the city has a convenient metro system that can take you to most major attractions. Taxis are also readily available, but be sure to negotiate the fare before getting in. Uber is another safe and reliable option for getting around the city.

For currency exchange, it’s best to avoid exchanging money at the airport as the rates are usually higher. Instead, visit a local bank or exchange office in the city for better rates. Most places in Mexico City accept credit cards, but it’s always helpful to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors or markets.

Things to do in Mexico City / Top 20 sites and monuments to Visit in Mexico City

National Palace – The National Palace is the seat of the Mexican federal government and houses murals by Diego Rivera depicting Mexico’s history. Admission is free, and the palace is located in the city center, easily accessible by metro or taxi.
Zocalo – The main square of Mexico City, where you can find street vendors, historic buildings, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. It’s a bustling hub of activity and a great place to people-watch.
Chapultepec Castle – Situated on a hill in Chapultepec Park, this historic castle offers stunning views of the city. Admission is $5 for non-residents of Mexico, and you can take a taxi or Uber to get there.
Frida Kahlo Museum – Also known as the Blue House, this museum was the former home of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Tickets are $200 pesos (around $10), and it’s located in the Coyoacan neighborhood.
Teotihuacan – An ancient Mesoamerican city known for its impressive pyramids, located about an hour outside of Mexico City. Entrance fee is $75 pesos (around $4) and you can take a bus from the North Bus Terminal.
Xochimilco – A system of canals and floating gardens where you can take a colorful trajinera boat ride. Prices start at $25 for a one-hour ride, and you can take an Uber or taxi to get there.
Templo Mayor – The ruins of an Aztec temple located in the Historic Center of Mexico City. Admission is $70 pesos (around $3.50) and it’s easily accessible by metro.
Palacio de Bellas Artes – An iconic building in Mexico City known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and cultural events. Entrance fee is $70 pesos and it’s located near the Alameda Central park.
Coyoacan – A charming neighborhood with cobblestone streets, art galleries, and the famous Casa Azul. It’s a great place to stroll around and enjoy the bohemian vibe of the area.
Plaza Garibaldi – The home of Mariachi music in Mexico City, where you can listen to live performances and enjoy traditional Mexican food. It’s a lively area at night and entrance is free.
Paseo de la Reforma – A wide avenue lined with skyscrapers, monuments, and museums. It’s a great place for a walk or bike ride to see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Angel of Independence.
National Museum of Anthropology – One of the largest and most important museums in Mexico, showcasing the country’s rich indigenous history. Admission is $85 pesos and it’s located in Chapultepec Park.
Mercado de la Merced – One of the largest traditional markets in Mexico City, offering a wide variety of food, clothing, and handicrafts. It’s a great place to experience local culture and try authentic Mexican cuisine.
Floating Gardens of Xochimilco – A UNESCO World Heritage site where you can take a colorful boat ride along ancient canals. Prices start at $25 for a one-hour ride, and you can take a taxi or Uber to get there.
Museo Soumaya – A private art museum founded by Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim, showcasing a diverse collection of artworks. Admission is free and it’s located in the upscale Polanco neighborhood.
La Ciudadela – A traditional artisan market where you can find handmade crafts, textiles, and ceramics from all over Mexico. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs and support local artisans.
Estadio Azteca – One of the largest football stadiums in the world, home to
the Mexican national team and Club America. You can take a guided tour of the stadium for $50 pesos and see the iconic venue up close.
Museo Frida Kahlo – Also known as the Casa Azul, this museum is dedicated to the life and work of artist Frida Kahlo. Tickets are $200 pesos and it’s located in the Coyoacan neighborhood.
Centro Historico – The historic center of Mexico City, where you can find colonial architecture, museums, and the iconic Zocalo square. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for history buffs.
Palacio de Bellas Artes – An iconic cultural center in Mexico City, known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and world-class performances. Tickets for events vary in price, and it’s located near Alameda Central park.

National Palace – (https://www.inah.gob.mx/zonas/34-palacio-nacional)
Zocalo – (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mexico/mexico-city/attractions/zocalo/a/poi-sig/1043283/361526)
Chapultepec Castle – (https://www.castillodechapultepec.cdmx.gob.mx/)
Frida Kahlo Museum – (https://www.museofridakahlo.org.mx/en/the-blue-house/)
Teotihuacan – (https://www.inah.gob.mx/zonas/84-zona-arqueologica-de-teotihuacan)
Xochimilco – (https://www.xochimilco.cdmx.gob.mx/en)
Templo Mayor – (https://mna.inah.gob.mx/en/templo-mayor)
Palacio de Bellas Artes – (https://palacio.bellasartes.gob.mx/)
Coyoacan – (https://www.coyoacan.com.mx/)
Plaza Garibaldi – (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mexico/mexico-city/attractions/plaza-garibaldi/a/poi-sig/1599967/361526)
Paseo de la Reforma – (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mexico/mexico-city/attractions/paseo-de-la-reforma/a/poi-sig/1043401/361526)
National Museum of Anthropology – (https://www.mna.inah.gob.mx/en)
Mercado de la Merced – (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mexico/mexico-city/attractions/mercado-de-la-merced/a/poi-sig/1597273/361526)
Floating Gardens of Xochimilco – (https://www.xochimilco.cdmx.gob.mx/en)
Museo Soumaya – (https://www.museosoumaya.org/)
La Ciudadela – (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mexico/mexico-city/attractions/la-ciudadela/a/poi-sig/1329298/361526)
Estadio Azteca – (https://www.estadioazteca.com.mx/)
Museo Frida Kahlo – (https://www.museofridakahlo.org.mx/en/the-blue-house/)
Centro Historico – (https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/412)
Palacio de Bellas Artes – (https://palacio.bellasartes.gob.mx/)

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3 days in Mexico City Visit Day by Day

Day 1:

Morning: Visit the National Palace and explore the Zocalo square.
Afternoon: Head to Chapultepec Castle for panoramic views of the city.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Roma or Condesa neighborhoods, known for their trendy restaurants and bars.

Day 2:

Morning: Explore the Frida Kahlo Museum and Coyoacan neighborhood.
Afternoon: Take a boat ride in Xochimilco and visit the Templo Mayor ruins.
Evening: Enjoy dinner and mariachi music at Plaza Garibaldi.

Day 3:

Morning: Visit the National Museum of Anthropology and stroll along Paseo de la Reforma.
Afternoon: Explore the Mercado de la Merced and the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco.
Evening: Check out a performance at the Palacio de Bellas Artes or enjoy a night out in the Polanco neighborhood.

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Where to Stay in Mexico City / Best Hotels and Accommodations in Mexico City

Top Rated Mexico City Hotels priced over $200 per night:

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Please note that ratings and prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Make sure to check the current rates and availability through the provided links.

For more about Mexico, Mexico City, Cancun and other travel destinations in Mexico, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.

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