Mexico City in 7 Days: a guidebook for getting the most out of your visit

Mexico City is a diverse metropolis where the modern and the ancient coexist among humble and luxurious neighbourhoods. Among the best things to do in the Aztec capital is to discover its jewels and that's just what we have planned for you.

In this article you will find a 7-day itinerary in Mexico City with the best routes, tips and maps for you to get to know the city and taste its gastronomic delights.

Start your adventure by exploring the heart of the city of the chilangos. Here you will find some of the Aztec capital's best museums, taquerias, markets, the wrestling cathedral and significant cultural sites.

I propose a plan of 10 stops covering 8 kilometres that you can easily follow with this map. Let's get started!

Morning of museums and books

Start your day walking along the pedestrian street Francisco I. Madero, known as the Corredor Madero, the first stop is the Palacio de Bellas Artes just a few steps from the Torre Latinoamericana. Admire the architectural beauty of the palace and see inside and out where the Diego Rivera Mural Museum and the monumental Franz Mayer Museum are located.

Two blocks later, on Calle de Tacuba, the equestrian statue of Carlos IV will announce that you have arrived at the National Museum of Art. It is worth admiring its collection of art from colonial times to the 20th century. Continue your way to Donceles Street, an area where bookshops and Mexican street art can be seen.

To finish the tour, stroll through the former Colegio de San Ildefonso, where the Museum of Murals is now located.

Afternoon of squares, temples and delicious food

At noon, head to the Templo Mayor and its museum, where you'll discover the pre-Hispanic history of the city and learn about the ancient civilizations that inhabited it.

Then move on to the Plaza de la Constitución, commonly known as the "Zócalo". Here you will find the imposing Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the main icons of the city. Then it will be time for lunch.

I recommend Balcón del Zócalo not only for its fabulous signature cuisine and wines, but also for the views from the restaurant. However, if you want to eat like a Chilango, try the taquerias in the area.

After a late lunch, continue on to the National Palace, home to the murals of the famous Mexican painter Diego Rivera. The rest of the evening tour winds its way through markets and other cultural centres such as the Mexico City Museum to La Romita.

Wrestling night

At La Romita you'll be in the "very" centre of wrestling in the Colonia Doctores, flanking the Arena Mexico. What better time to enjoy Lucha Libre experiences in Mexico City?

At the venue you can enjoy a succulent dinner, sip tequila and even listen to some mariachis.

On your second day you have two beautiful areas to discover: Xochimilco and Coyoacan on your itinerary. The first stop is around Xochimilco, better known as the Venetian microcosm of Mexico City. To end your first day's visit, you move on to Coyoacán, a charming bohemian neighbourhood.

Morning in Xochimilco

Start in the infinite floral gardens: Xochimilco. Here you can enjoy a ride on a trajinera, a traditional boat decorated with colourful flowers.

Navigate through the canals and lakes, while mariachi serenades in other trajineras, vendors of tacos, corn and the famous quesadillas liven up the ride. Admire the Xochimilco handicraft market and the beautiful floating gardens known as chinampas.

Have lunch at

Next, head to Coyoacán, where you'll have lunch. Dare to try the chiles en nogada. The place is full of options to try them, I personally think that the Mercado Roma Coyoacán with its more than 40 stalls is enough variety, however, here are some other recommendations from Time Out.

Afternoon in Coyoacán

The tour is a delight, I recommend you make a minimum of 4 stops which you will find on this map. Visit Plaza Hidalgo, the heart of Coyoacan, where you'll find the church of San Juan Bautista and the central kiosk. Explore the Mercado de Coyoacán, home to a wide variety of local produce, handicrafts and traditional food.

Next, visit the Casa Azul, also known as the Frida Kahlo Museum, where the famous Mexican painter lived for much of her life. See her works, and if you feel like delving deeper into the life of Kahlo and her eternal companion Diego Rivera, you can also visit the Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo.

Later, stroll through the Parque de los Viveros, a beautiful tree-lined field with a very nice permanent exhibition of flowers and nurseries.

End the day in

To end the day, enjoy dinner at one of Coyoacán's terrace restaurants and enjoy a mezcal tasting. Where to go? At Corazón de Maguey, one of the city's best bars with craft beer, signature cocktails and pulques.

On the third day of your itinerary you will have the opportunity to explore the majestic pyramids of Teotihuacan, one of Mexico's most important ancient pre-Hispanic cities.

Pyramids morning

Depart early from Mexico City for Teotihuacan, the city where men become gods. The journey by bus or private car can take about an hour, depending on traffic.

Once in Teotihuacan, start your visit at the Pyramid of the Sun, the largest pyramid in the archaeological site. Continue your tour to the Pyramid of the Moon, another impressive monument. Explore the temples and plazas surrounding these pyramids, such as the Calzada de los Muertos and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl.

Afternoon from the Heights

Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants near the archaeological site. Try typical dishes such as tlacoyos, stew tacos or Mexican antojitos.

After lunch, visit the Museum of Teotihuacan Culture, where you can learn more about the history and culture of Teotihuacan through archaeological exhibits and artefacts.

And if you want a unique experience, opt for the best hot air balloon rides in Mexico City. This activity will allow you to appreciate the grandeur of the pyramids of Teotihuacan, the valley, the Quetzalcoatl and the splendour of Mesoamerica's pioneer planning city from the air.

Night of tascas

In the evening, head to Plaza Garibaldi, one of the jewels of Mexican nightlife, famous for its mariachis and tascas. You can choose between several restaurants and bars for dinner or if you prefer, take a gastronomic tour.

On your fourth day in CDMX, explore vibrant Roma and La Condesa, two of Mexico City's best neighbourhoods. The day's plan includes 10 stops that you can follow with this map by bike, public transport or the Mexico City Sightseeing Bus which has stops near all the day's sights.

A morning at the movies

Have breakfast in Roma, the neighbourhood that served as the backdrop for director Alfonso Cuaron's film of the same name. Sample Mexican coffee and enjoy Creole pastries, the famous conchas, or perhaps turkey cakes.

After breakfast, delight in the European-influenced architecture of this area. Buildings such as the Casa Lamm Cultural Centre stand out. Don't forget to explore the contemporary art galleries and boutique shops.

Then continue to the Monumento a la Revolución, just before buying your treats at the Museo del Chocolate or enjoying Joe Gelato's ice cream - check out the blue corn ice cream, or the pistachio and truffle, they are a delight.

Other must-see sights include El Ángel de la Independencia and the Glorieta de los Insurgentes, just before arriving at the gastronomic Mercado de Roma.

A chic afternoon in La Condesa

At the Mercado Roma you will surely have had lunch, if not, a plethora of restaurants to suit all tastes awaits you around Parque Mexico. I recommend you stop at Las Santas Conchas, try the concha de cochinita, perfect to recharge your batteries at the best price.

Continue your tour visiting Colonia Condesa, a neighbourhood full of parks, green areas, luxury mansions and trendy places. Visit the Bosque de Chapultepec, one of the natural lungs of the city where the magnificent Chapultepec Castle, the National Museum of Anthropology, the House of Mirrors, the Museum of Modern Art and the House of Corn and Food Culture are located.

Nightlife

Take advantage of the Condesa's lively nightlife. You can choose from trendy bars such as Studio 73, live music clubs or even enjoy a theatre performance or concert at one of the cultural venues in the area.

For this day I recommend one of the best day trips from Mexico City, the Grutas de Tolantongo, a Mexican paradise.

In the morning

Head to Hidalgo, located 4 hours from Mexico City. Arrive at the Grutas de Tolantongo and start exploring the impressive natural caves, while walking through the illuminated tunnels of approximately 15 metres.

Immerse yourself in the thermal waters of the caves and feel how the minerals emanating from the rock terraces renew your energy.

In the afternoon

You can have lunch at the hidden Paradise Restaurant with panoramic views of the canyon. Enjoy the local gastronomy and savour traditional dishes while the scenery enraptures you.

After lunch, decide whether to go hiking, zip-lining or abseiling. And if you are a lover of caves, you can also go caving here. Feel the adrenaline pumping through your body as you enjoy exciting outdoor activities.

At night

I recommend you to indulge in a wine experience at the Wine Bar located in Juárez, 3 blocks away from the Angel of Independence.

Head to the state of Morelos, 90 minutes from Mexico City, to visit one of the most famous magical towns in the country: Tepoztlán. This place is famous for its spirituality and natural landscapes.

The tour is one of the most beautiful and the best way to do it is accompanied by experts with one of CDMX' s day trips. What will you do during the tour?

In the morning

Admire the scenery as you make your way to the mountains of the Tepozteco archaeological site. The first stop leads you to the Mercado Artesanal (handicraft market). Here you will find Mexican handicrafts such as ceramics, textiles and jewellery blessed by the local god of the back.

Afterwards, hike up to the Tepozteco Hill, site of the Temple of Tepozteco. This hike will take about an hour and will reward you with panoramic views.

In the afternoon

Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants on Tepozteco Street, where traditional food such as cecina and tlacoyos is the norm.

Then, continue exploring the area with a stop at the Exconvent of Tepoztlán and its museum, buildings of colonial architecture where indigenous traces are still present.

Afterwards, relax at the Tepoztlán Waterfalls. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and cool off in the natural pools.

In the evening

Return to Mexico City and take advantage of the evening to add to your adventure the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico show at the Palacio de Bellas Artes, one of the best things to do in Mexico City at night.

The last day in the city is spent in the elegance and sophistication of Polanco, known for its luxury boutiques, avant-garde art galleries and exquisite culinary options.

In the morning

Try a gourmet coffee and enjoy pastries and the popular huevos rancheros in the best Polanco style.

Afterwards, head to the Soumaya Museum, an impressive building with an extensive collection of renowned artists such as Salvador Dalí and Auguste Rodin. Spend a couple of hours in this museum, and once you see its structure, renamed the "Aztec Guggenheim", you'll understand why it's a gem from every angle.

Just a few steps away is the Museo Jumex, dedicated to contemporary art. Explore its temporary exhibitions and enjoy the works of Mexican and international artists.

In the afternoon

Enjoy one of Polanco's haute cuisine restaurants between Emilio Castelar and Presidente Masaryk avenues. This area is perfect to say goodbye to the city with a gastronomic tour and do your last minute shopping.

Here you will find a wide variety of options such as Público Comedor and Mandolina.