Tips for Visiting Mexico City for the First Time
Those visiting Mexico City for the first time need not be intimidated by this bustling metropolis. Visitors will find a culinary scene going off the rails, more museums than you could ever wander through, and a revitalized downtown laced with stunning architecture. With direct flights from most major American cities, it’s a cinch to get there, too. Here’s a look at what you need to know about Mexico City before touching down.
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Safety First in Mexico City
Let’s address the elephant in the room first, shall we? At no time did I ever feel unsafe touring this mega-metropolis. In fact, I even felt comfortable wandering around on my own, looking like a dorky tourist complete with a camera bag strapped across my chest.
Yes, Mexico has received a lot of bad press lately, but if you want to get down to facts, Mexico City has a murder rate lower than Detroit, Baltimore or New Orleans. It’s all about location, location, location. Wherever you are, you want to exercise the same degree of caution you would in any unfamiliar city.
Getting Around Mexico City
Rest assured, taxis hired from either the hotel or airport are considered safe. Once upon a time, this wasn’t the case, but times have changed. Hiring a private cab is the way to go. There’s also an extensive subway system you could give a go. While I never rode it, my friends did and claimed it was no biggie.
Mexico City Cuisine
Although there’s a lot more going on in Mexico City’s burgeoning culinary scene than tacos, they’re so scrumptious that you’d be forgiven if you only sought them out.
For serious fans, there’s no better place to sample authentic Mexican eats than at El Fogoncito. They’ve been serving up high-quality dishes for more than 50 years at 12 locations across the city. Try the mildly spiced poblano cream soup and a platter of tacos al pastor. You can easily feed your family here for a few bucks a head.
Delirio in the trendy neighborhood of Roma serves up seasonal Mediterranean deli food. You can pick up gourmet condiments made by a famous Mexican chef, Monica Patino.
Worth the splurge is Limosneros, a contemporary restaurant in the Centro Historico area. Here you can tuck into Mexican classics like molé or even roasted grasshopper.
For sweet snacks, nip into Dulceria de Celaya (also in the Centro Historico). This traditional candy store is flush with cookies, candied fruits, meringues as well as marzipan formed into delightful characters. Make sure you score some buñuelos, thin disks of deep-fried dough topped with caramelized sugar.
Where to Stay in Mexico City
I bedded down at the Sheraton Maria Isabel Hotel & Towers. Its central location can’t be beat. It’s also right beside the U.S. Embassy and only 30 minutes from the airport. From the hotel, you can check out the many monuments, or even walk down to the zoo.
From this hotel, guests overlook Mexico City’s main drag, the famous Monumento a Los Heroes de la Independencia on Paseo de la Reforma. Paseo de la Reforma is a wide tree-lined boulevard ideal for strolling. On Sundays, the road is closed to traffic and hundreds of cyclists take to the street to soak up a festive atmosphere.
The rooms are clean and spacious. If you’re staying over the weekend, however, and you’re a light sleeper, you won’t want a room overlooking the Paseo de la Reforma. Noise from the street’s numerous clubs goes off until the wee hours.
Additionally, there is a lovely rooftop pool. If traveling with children, keep in mind there is no shallow end therefore definitely for strong swimmers only.
What to Do in Mexico City
The list is endless, but if you’ve never been, it’s best to start in the center. Several major attractions are clustered within the Centro Historico. This 34-block area of historic buildings is brimming with shops, markets, and museums. And when it comes to museums, Mexico City is second only to London, England in terms of numbers, so you’re certain to find a focus to fit your interest.
Explore More of Mexico
Mexico City is family-friendly, too, with an array of activities that tempt kids.
Seeking a beachy Mexican vacation? Read about what to do in Cancun with babies and toddlers.
Want to bring the flavors and traditions of Mexico home? Check out these kid-friendly Cinco de Mayo party ideas.
For a unique and beautiful Mexican destination, read our tips for visiting San Miguel de Allende with kids.
Save These Mexico City Tips
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Do you have any suggestions or questions about visiting Mexico City for the first time? Let us know in the comments below!
A Note from The Saucy Travel Mama: This trip was sponsored by Mexico City. All opinions are my own, as always.
My husband and I will be going to Mexico City for the first time for Dia de los Muertos. I’m super excited but at the same time scared. Any suggestions???
Hi Claudia, It’s been awhile since I was in Mexico City. The crime rates there are lower than Chicago, so I think perspective is important. It’s also wise to always keep your wits about you, use trusted taxis (from a hotel) and so forth. I felt very safe in the areas I visited and referred to in this post. Have a great trip!
This really opened my mind to Mexico City. I’m hoping this is the beginning of a renaissance for the city. The food looked delicious.
Renaissance is the perfect description for what I think they’re going through. I’d jump at any opportunity to get back! Thanks so much for commenting, Ellen!
I went to Mexico City years ago for work and brought my brother along. We were not there long but we loved what we got to see – and the food too as you noted! I would love to go back and take my family there as I agree, safety is no more of a concern than anywhere else.
Hi Keira, I’ve heard of a lot of former workers going back there for tourism. You’d have a let up on the rest of us newbies!
I’ve got to say Mexico City has never been on my bucket list but after reading this with all the glorious tastes and destinations, I may have to reconsider!
I must admit Mexico City wasn’t on my “with kids” bucket list, but your post has made me reconsider if for no other reason than the delicious tacos!
Great to hear, Chamisa. The food scene was fantastic. Next week I’ll detail more about what to do with kids – you won’t be bored!
I’ve never been to Mexico and I’m uncomfortable in really warm climates, say over 85 degrees. When would be the best time for me to visit Mexico City?
Hi Deb, I’m Canadian and can’t handle high heat, either. I think spring and fall would be ideal times to visit. I went at the end of May and it was warm, but overcast most days. I wouldn’t push it past mid-May, though.
This is a great post! I can’t wait to read your other posts on this site! I’m a subscriber now. 🙂
Thanks, lady!