Exploring Mexico City: A Fun-Filled Adventure

Mexico City is a sprawling metropolis with a population of over 20 million people. It has become a sought-after destination for travellers seeking to indulge in Mexico's rich culinary heritage, admire the city's stunning architecture, or stroll through picturesque neighbourhoods such as Roma, Polanco, Juárez and Condesa. The city boasts more than a hundred museums, each offering a unique window into Mexican culture. Beyond museums, the city's artistic achievements shine through in its architecture, epitomised by the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes. Mexico City's commitment to preserving and showcasing its rich artistic heritage offers an immersive cultural experience.

The greater Mexico City area is one of the ten biggest metropolitan areas in the world. However, most points of interest are clustered in a few highly walkable areas with a good level of safety, making it a surprisingly manageable city to visit. The city's sheer size only becomes obvious when taking the crowded metro, viewing the city from above, or visiting outer neighbourhoods.

The city's culinary delights include mouth-watering, flavour-packed tacos and tortas, as well as elevated dishes in beautiful dining rooms. It even has UNESCO heritage status due to its diverse cuisine, usage of local ingredients, and preservation of traditional culinary practices.

Mexico City also has a vibrant arts scene, with over 150 museums to choose from. Visitors can spend days exploring Chapultepec Park, which houses nine different museums, including the highly-regarded Museo Nacional de Antropología. The city's architectural wonders include Art Deco neighbourhoods like Condesa and Roma, as well as iconic landmarks like Palacio de Correos de Mexico and Palacio de Bellas Artes.

In conclusion, Mexico City has something for everyone, from foodies to art lovers. Its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant energy make it a must-visit destination.

Is Mexico City safe?

Mexico City has a reputation for being unsafe, but how much truth is there to this reputation?

Crime

Like any major city, crime does happen in Mexico City. However, tourists are rarely the targets of violent crime. The most common crime in Mexico City is petty theft, such as pickpocketing, which occurs mostly on public transportation and in tourist areas. To avoid being a victim of petty theft, it is recommended that you keep your valuables secured and be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

There are some areas of Mexico City that are considered more dangerous than others. These include Iztapalapa, Tepito, Neza, Ecatepec, and Doctores. It is recommended that you avoid these areas, especially at night. On the other hand, there are several areas of Mexico City that are considered very safe, such as Cuauhtemoc, Roma Norte, Santa Fe, and Lomas de Chapultepec.

Natural Disasters

In addition to crime, Mexico City is also prone to natural disasters, particularly earthquakes. The city has a sophisticated seismic alarm system that gives residents and visitors up to a 60-second warning before an earthquake hits. If you hear the alarm, it is important to stay calm, follow the locals' lead, and seek safety in a building or open area away from trees and other potential hazards.

Scams

There are also some common scams in Mexico City that you should be aware of. These include taxi scams, where drivers overcharge tourists or take them hostage and force them to withdraw money from ATMs, and food and drink scams, where vendors lure people in with cheap prices and then charge them exorbitant amounts. To avoid scams, it is recommended that you only use official taxis and be wary of anyone who seems overly friendly or asks too many personal questions.

Overall Safety

So, is Mexico City safe? The answer is yes and no. While there are certain dangers and risks, these can mostly be mitigated by taking common-sense precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, securing your valuables, and avoiding certain areas. With its rich culture, history, and cuisine, Mexico City has much to offer visitors, and it would be a shame to let fear deter you from experiencing all that this vibrant city has to offer.

What are the best neighbourhoods to visit?

Mexico City is divided into hundreds of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods to visit:

Roma

Designated a "Barrio Magico" by the city, Roma is known for its vibrant Art Deco architecture and spectacular food scene. Locals recommend visiting the Mercado Roma, a fancy food hall offering everything from churros to craft beer and impressive rooftop views. Roma also boasts a thriving cafe culture, with Buna being a standout for coffee lovers. The neighbourhood is also a great place to explore street art.

Condesa

Condesa is the sister neighbourhood of Roma, sharing a similar history and vibrant colours. It features wide, leafy boulevards and the gorgeous Parque Mexico, filled with dogs, music, and benches for relaxation. Condesa is known for its street food, especially around the Condesa metro station at Chilpancingo, where you can find delicious local options like tlacoyos (thick corn patties stuffed with beans and meat).

Polanco

Polanco is known for its high-end shopping, fancy cocktail bars, and world-class restaurants. It's also home to brilliant museums like the Museo Soumaya and the Museo Nacional de Antropologia. Polanco is considered one of the safest neighbourhoods in Mexico City and is intertwined with some of the city's best parks, including a section of the Chapultepec Park.

Coyoacan

Coyoacan is the quiet, artsy neighbourhood that was once home to Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. It has retained a certain degree of village charm, with cobbled streets and colourful plazas. The main attraction is the Museo de Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul), which attracts visitors from all over. Coyoacan also has great markets, such as Mercado Coyoacan and Mercado de Antojitos, known for their fried quesadillas and tostadas.

Juarez

Once one of the grandest neighbourhoods, Juarez is now an eclectic, up-and-coming area with a mix of hip new businesses and classic spots. It's a great place to explore art galleries and speakeasies. Milan 44 is a recent addition, offering local cheese and yoga classes. Nestled within Juarez is Zona Rosa, known for its nightlife and LGBTQ+ bars.

Centro Historico

The Centro Historico is the bustling heart of Mexico City, with a mix of historic buildings and modern skyscrapers. It's home to the Zócalo, Latin America's largest main square, and the Palacio Nacional, featuring dramatic Diego Rivera murals. Nearby is the Templo Mayor, a sacred Aztec temple with a world-class museum. The neighbourhood offers a range of accommodations, from colonial buildings converted into hostels and boutique hotels.

What are the best ways to get around?

Mexico City has a wide range of transport options to suit all budgets and travel needs. Here is a rundown of the best ways to get around.

The Metro

The Mexico City Metro is a cheap, reliable, and efficient way to get around the city. With 12 lines and 195 stations, it is one of the most popular transport options, with an estimated 5.5 million people using it each weekday. A single ticket costs around 25 cents, and the metro operates from early morning until midnight. However, it can get extremely crowded during peak hours, and it is common to encounter pickpockets, so it is best to avoid travelling with large bags or suitcases. The first two or three carriages are reserved for women and children only.

Buses

Mexico City has a highly developed bus network, with thousands of buses operating daily from around 5 am to 10 pm. The Metrobús is a cheap, wheelchair-accessible, long bus that runs along dedicated lanes in the middle of the street. It costs around 31 cents for a ride, and you will need to purchase a smartcard to use this service. There are also women-only buses as part of this service.

Peseros, also called microbuses or combis, are grey and green minibusses that follow fixed routes, often starting or ending at metro stations. They will stop at any street corner and charge around 25 to 30 cents for a trip, depending on the distance.

There are also electric trolleybuses, municipally-operated orange and cream-coloured buses, and the red double-decker Turibus, which offers a three-hour tour of the city's popular sights and is a great option for those wanting to pack in a lot of sightseeing in one day.

Cycling

Bicycles are a viable way to get around Mexico City, and the city government has been encouraging their use by creating more bicycle-only lanes. Each Sunday, the Muévete en Bici program transforms major streets into a 57km car-free route for cyclists, dog walkers, and rollerbladers. You can rent a bike from one of the 503 stations distributed across 71 neighbourhoods using the public bicycle hire system Ecobici.

Cable Car

The Cablebús system, which opened in 2012, offers two lines. The first connects the northern neighbourhoods of Cuautepec and Tlalpexco to the city centre, and the second connects the southeastern zones of Constitución de 1917 and Santa Marta. For around 70 cents, you can take in incredible sweeping views while gliding above the traffic.

Taxi or Ride-Share

You can hail official pink and white taxis on the street or use a ride-hailing app like Uber, Cabify, or DiDi. While taxis are a more expensive option, they can be a hassle-free way to get to and from the airport.

Walking

Walking is a great way to get around and explore the city, especially in the more central and touristy neighbourhoods. However, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, as petty crime and pickpocketing are common in tourist areas.

What are the best safety tips?

Mexico City is a densely packed metropolis with a population of over 21 million people. It is a beautiful yet chaotic place with a strong sense of community. In recent years, it has become a sought-after destination for travellers due to its rich culinary heritage, stunning architecture, and lively bar scene.

• Be aware of ongoing COVID-19 safety measures. Wear masks in public places, especially indoors and in transit. Avoid enclosed and crowded spaces, and get tested if you experience any symptoms.
• Dress down and avoid wearing clothing that makes you stand out as a tourist.
• Use apps like TheCitymx to branch out from crowded central areas and explore the thousands of friendly neighbourhoods and fascinating sites that Mexico City has to offer.
• Be cautious when walking at night. Avoid secluded areas and those that you don't know well. It is best to avoid walking after 10 pm.
• Be careful when crossing streets, as some crossings can be dangerous.
• Avoid drugs and places where illegal drugs are consumed, bought, or sold.
• Use common sense and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Keep your valuables hidden and secure.
• Stay hydrated, as Mexico City sits at a high elevation and you may feel more tired than usual.
• Be prepared for earthquakes. Mexico City has a seismic alarm system that will give you a warning before an earthquake hits, so stay calm and follow the locals' lead to a safe place.
• Avoid drinking alcohol in the streets, as it is illegal and can result in a fine or jail time.
• Avoid drinking tap water. Stick to filtered or bottled water to avoid any sanitation issues.
• Be cautious of petty crime and pickpocketing in tourist areas, and stay alert when using public transportation or visiting crowded places.
• Stay in tourist areas and avoid travelling alone at night in lonely places.
• Use reputable ride-sharing apps like Uber instead of regular taxis.
• Carry ID or a copy of your passport with you at all times.
• Learn some basic Spanish phrases and be aware of your rights, as some police officers may try to take advantage of tourists.
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash and distribute your valuables in different places to reduce the risk of theft.
• Be cautious when drinking at bars and clubs, and always keep an eye on your drink.
• Stick to well-lit, busy streets at night and avoid walking alone in isolated areas.

What are the best things to do in Mexico City?

Mexico City is a densely packed metropolis with a population of over 21 million people. It is a vibrant mix of ancient and new, with storied museums, ancient bars, and cultural sites. Here are some of the best things to do in Mexico City:

• Explore the Centro Histórico, or Historic Centre, where centuries-old constructions clash with American-inspired skyscrapers, street markets, and museums. Check out the Palacio de Bellas Artes, the Zócalo, and the Mercado Ciudadela.
• Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as La Casa Azul, where Frida Kahlo was born, raised, lived, and died. The museum offers a glimpse into her life and work, including her famous self-portraits and a collection of her personal belongings.
• Stroll through the Coyoacán neighbourhood, one of Mexico City's oldest, with colonial-style architecture and cobblestone streets. Try a traditional Mexican dessert like churros con chocolate while you're there!
• Discover the Museo Nacional de Antropología, one of the most popular museums in CDMX. This massive building in Chapultepec Park holds the world's largest collection of ancient Mexican artefacts.
• Take a hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan, an ancient Mesoamerican city home to some of Mexico's most impressive pyramids. This bucket list experience offers unparalleled views of the pyramids and the surrounding area.
• Enjoy the nightlife in the upscale district of Polanco, known for its trendy restaurants and bars.
• Indulge in the food scene, from street tacos and traditional Mexican desserts to fresh seafood and gourmet restaurants.

Frequently asked questions