Things to do in Mexico City

In a city with a population larger than New York City, you can’t easily pinpoint where CDMX locals congregate, let alone what they like to do. However, you can expect to find a lively nightlife scene in the Centro Histórico district, a relaxing afternoon in Parque México (people love biking here), and shopping at the artisan San Ángel market (aka Bazar del Sábado). Sharing most parts of the city is inevitable, but locals can still feel moved by places such Plaza de la Constitución, also known as Zócalo.

This is an international city that attracts some of the brightest culinary talents from across the world. With that comes an overwhelming list of options. Get grounded by joining locals on food experiences that range from high-end dining to heartwarming home cooking. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Make tacos al pastor with a local chef (and more)

Learn how to marinate the meat, prepare the salsas, and pick the best ingredients for this household favorite. Take a churro-making class with a pro chef. Make mole with a local who shares the history, legends, and more of this ancient dish. Hungry yet?

Sip mezcal on the Xochimilco canals

Hop aboard a colorful trajinera (a painted, flat-bottom boat) with a mariachi band and your expert guide to enjoy a smooth ride along the canals. Along the way, expect to try special family recipes, sip on mezcal and tequila, and enjoy the scenery which includes chinampas (man-made islands).

Enjoy a lucha libre and taqueria night

Join a group of local friends as your guides, who take you to their favorite taquerias before a night of a favorite local pastime: watching lucha libre, an entertaining spectacle of wrestling deeply associated with Mexico City.

Take a food tour of the markets

​​Try different types of mole, Mexican fruits, vegetables, tlacoyos, gorditas, and plenty more in places including La Merced Market.

Cover (and eat) more on a bike tour

Travel through the neighborhoods of Polanco, Condesa or Roma on two wheels. The quest is simple, and delicious: Find the best tacos in the city with a connoisseur of the beloved food.

Explore Teotihuacan and its pyramids

Just about an hour’s drive from Mexico City sits what was once the largest urban center of Mesoamerica before the Aztecs. Walk the Avenue of the Dead to see the talud-tablero architectural style, admire the Pyramid of the Sun, and the Pyramid of the Moon, and hear the history from a Teotihuacan native firsthand. Other experiences to look out for include a meal with a local family.