EXPLORE MEXICO CITY’S HISTORY, FLAVOR & CULTURE

MEXICO CITY: SAFE, STUNNING & FULL OF SURPRISES
Why Mexico City Deserves a Spot on Your Travel List

Discover the safest neighborhoods, savor the finest cuisine, and immerse yourself in Mexico City’s deeply rooted culture.

Overview:  Explore Mexico City. Discover Mexico City’s rich culture and vibrant neighborhoods. Explore safe, walkable areas like Condesa, Roma Norte, and Polanco. Get tips for immersive travel and unforgettable dining experiences.

Recently, I spent two glorious weeks in Mexico. Nine days were spent in Mexico City, with a side trip to Oaxaca for 5 days. So many people told me how dangerous travel is in Mexico City. My friend from Mexico told me the same thing. But other friends who have been there many times told me that it’s completely safe. And the fact is … You just need to be smart about your saftey and your valuables while you explore Mexico City. Don’t flaunt expensive jewelry; stay in safe areas, especially at night. Keep your wallet and cash in your front pockets, or wear x-body sling close to your body and in front of your torso instead of behind you. Or use a small waist pack and keep it under your clothing or on your hip. And be aware of your surroundings and personal space. I had zero issues and never felt threatened at all. I walked a lot, sometimes 7 miles per day, covering lots of territory. I’d say I visited at least a dozen parks throughout Mexico City during my stay, and the majority of the parks had a strong police presence. Especially on weekends when the parks are dense with people and families.

“This high elevation means the city has thinner air,…. and can cause mild altitude sickness for some visitors.”

EXPLORE MEXICO CITY. A CITY WITH ITS OWN RHYTHM CDMX HAS ITS OWN VIBE
CDMX’s High Altitude / What You Need to Know

So many people told me that Mexico City feels like Paris. Let me be clear. It is nothing like Paris nor Europe in the least bit. Mexico City is uniquely it’s own vibe and took me a day or two to settle into it. The people are fantastic, the history is rich, and the food is amazing! I ended up never taking public transportation. Instead, I opted to use Uber to shuttle me when I didn’t want to walk. Mexico City [CDMX] sits at an average altitude of 7,350 feet (2,240 meters) above sea level. This high elevation means the city has thinner air, cooler temperatures compared to other places at the same latitude, and can cause mild altitude sickness for some visitors. If you’re not used to high altitudes, it’s best to stay super hydrated, take it easy for the first day, and avoid too much alcohol or caffeine until you adjust. Even though I was staying super hydrated, I found my legs were super sore from walking so much. I visited a local pharmacy and asked for high-dose ibuprofen [800mg] and took them twice a day for a couple of days until the soreness went away. I wasn’t alone in my soreness. I asked some friends that were staying nearby in Zona Rosa and they said they were experiencing the same thing. One thing I have to mention is how incredibly clean CDMX is. Yes, there is graffiti and lots of it as street art. But dang, it’s clean. Rarely did I see trash like I see in NYC or Paris, and the parks are immaculate.

When I travel, I don’t rush from place to place trying to see everything in a day. I prefer a slower pace, immersing myself in the local culture. Rather than cramming in a full schedule, I choose two key places to visit and build my day around them. My rhythm includes walking, exploring, and taking a break—whether it’s for coffee, a local beer, or regional wine with a light snack at a café.

As a hardcore foodie, I prioritize an incredible breakfast, a quick but excellent lunch, and a long, leisurely dinner that can stretch for hours. On days of relaxation—essential after walking 5-7 miles daily—I opt for a long lunch and a later dinner to reset and recharge.

EPXLORE MEXICO CITY: THE BEST AREAS TO STAY IN MEXICO CITY
And the Safest Areas in CDMX

The safest areas to say in Mexico City are Condesa, Roma Norte and Polanco [the Beverly Hills of Mexico City].

I stayed in Condesa, across the street from the lovely Parque Mexico. Condesa is one of Mexico City’s most charming and unique neighborhoods, known for its blend of historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and vibrant cultural scene. The neighborhood is highly walkable, with wide sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly streets, and plenty of shady trees. It’s a lovely, quiet neighborhood with a fantastic selection of restaurants and bars and lovely streets to wander.

Roma Norte, is a 15-20min Uber ride from Condesa. It’s tree-lined streets with Beaux-Arts, Art Deco, and Modernist architecture, creating a lovely small city atmosphere. Many old buildings have been restored or converted into stylish cafes, galleries, and boutique hotels, blending historic charm with modern design.

Polanco is without a doubt the Beverly Hills of Mexico City.  You are keenly aware of this the moment you arrive, Parque Lincoln. One of Polanco’s most iconic green spaces featuring sculptures, fountains, a reflecting pool, and a playground. Parque Lincoln is located along Avenida Emilio Castelar home to some of Polanco’s best restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to relax. It has a ritzy vibe and actually feels like you are in Beverly Hills. 

World Trade Center: This area wasn’t on my radar, and it was never mentioned or suggested when I was researching where to stay in CDMX. It’s a bit off the beaten path. It is a super safe area to stay in. And I got a crazy good deal on my hotel, which I list below. Lots of good dining in the area and a 20 minute uber ride from Condesa, Polanco and Roma Norte.

EPXLORE MEXICO CITY:  GREAT HOTELS IN MEXICO CITY

CONDESA
Casa Malí by Dominion

Casa Mali offers 21 luxurious suites, each designed to provide a chic yet spacious urban sanctuary for guests. Perfectly situated at the foot of Parque Mexico and steps away from restaurants. Spacious bedroom, 1000 count sheets, 45″ flat screen TV with international channels, smallish but perfectly appointed bathroom done in marble and limestone. Large sitting area/living room comfortably seats 6 people with couches, chairs, and tables. Fully stocked kitchen, pots, pans, flatware, dishes, and an Nespresso machine; filtered water available 24/7. Stackable washer and dryer. Bar down stairs. Serves excellent cocktails and light food items. Concierge at front desk. Complimentary breakfast, excellent coffee, pastries, hard-boiled eggs and cereals, orange juice etc. Super safe area. I paid $200 per night. A similar hotel in any major US city would be approximately $750 per night.

• Website: www.dominioncondesa.com / Phone: +52 (55) 5564-0017 / E-mail: reservaciones@dominioncondesa.com / Av México 107, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc, 06100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

WORLD TRADE CENTER
Hyatt Regency Insurgentes

The area surrounding the Hyatt Regency Mexico City Insurgentes is not strictly a business district. It offers a rich blend of cultural attractions, architectural landmarks, and delightful dining options, making it ideal for walking and exploration.This elegant, pet-friendly hotel is conveniently located near the World Trade Center Mexico City, and trendy neighborhoods like Colonia Nápoles and Coyoacán. Quite possibly the best service I’ve ever had at a hotel. I was greeted at the curb; an employee helped me with my bag as I exited my Uber and guided me to the check-in desk. From there, I was guided by a bellperson to my room, where the layout was explained to me along with all the services the hotel offers. Spacious room, super clean, excellent amenities, bottled water daily, Nespresso machine, large flat-screen TV with intl. channels, chaize bed near the floor to ceiling windows. Near lots of dining options. Super safe area. Excellent bar on their main floor. 24/7 Ramen place down stairs on the property’s main floor and a very upscale, excellent Japanese restaurant around the corner: Suntory de Valle  / http://www.suntory.com.mx I paid $150 per night for my room.

• Website: Hyatt Regency Mexico City Insurgentes / Phone: +52 55 5724 7700 / Avenida Insurgentes Sur 724, Colonia del Valle Norte, Benito Juárez, Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico 03100

EPXLORE MEXICO CITY: WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN MEXICO CITY

How I Plan My Dailly Excursions

• • Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacán: A 30 minute Uber ride from Condesa. Located in Coyoacán, this is Frida Kahlo’s former home and an iconic museum filled with her art and personal artifacts. Here’s the bummer though.  It’s nearly impossible to get tickets on the open marekt.  Tickets are typically $15.  I’m a huge Kahlo fan and really wanted to got to the mueum.  However here’s why tickets are impossble to come by. Tour operator buy them up as soon as tickets are rleased taking them all off marekt and scalping them for $45-$55 dollars.  I refused to suppoert their behavior and subsequently didn’t go.
  • Roma Norte and Condesa Neighborhoods Wander these trendy districts known for their Art Deco architecture, chic cafes, parks, and vibrant nightlife. I particulary like the tree lined streets in Roma Norte. The most famous tree-lined avenue in Roma Norte is Avenida Álvaro Obregón. This picturesque boulevard is one of the most charming and vibrant streets in Mexico City, known for its wide, shaded sidewalks, historic architecture, and a lively café culture.

• • Polanco District Parque Lincoln: Begin your walk in Polanco at this beautifully landscaped park with walking paths, a reflecting pool, and sculptures. It’s a great place to people-watch and admire the greenery. Don’t miss the Aviary, a small bird sanctuary.  Polcano is without a doubt the Beverly Hills of Mexico City. You are keenly aware of this the moment you arrive. Parque Lincoln is located along Avenida Emilio Castelar home to some of Polanco’s best restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to relax. Polanco has a ritzy vibe and feels like you are in Beverly Hills.
    

  • Biblioteca José Vasconcelos:  Often calked Megabiblioteca, the José Vasconcelos Library covers 38k/sq/ft housing 600,000 books and is designed by famed architect Alberto Kalach and his firm Taller de Arquitectura. Outside its Brutalist architecture.  Inside it’s straight out of a sci-fi movie. Worth the trip. 
    

  • Museo Soumaya: The Museo Soumaya is famous for its futuristic design, which resembles the shape of a spaceship or a large, shiny, curvaceous sculpture. The building was designed by architect Fernando Romero, and it stands out for its distinctive reflective facade, covered with over 16,000 hexagonal aluminum tiles. The design is meant to evoke the idea of an organic, flowing structure. The museum is part of the Carlos Slim Foundation, and it houses a vast collection of art, ranging from European masters like Rodin and Da Vinci to works by Mexican artists such as Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros. Its striking appearance and impressive collection make the Museo Soumaya one of the most recognizable and innovative architectural landmarks in Mexico City. Seirously looks like an alien spece ship has landed in Mexico City.  Stunning architecture.

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  • Monumento a la Revolución:  One of Mexico City’s most iconic landmarks, the Monumento a la Revolución stands as a symbol of the Mexican Revolution. The neoclassical design, combined with its bold, modern elements, makes it an excellent subject for photography. The surrounding Plaza de la República is filled with local life, making it a perfect spot to capture people and everyday scenes.

  • Plaza de la República:  If you are a hard core history buff this is for you.  However there is only 1 mounument in a vacant concrete landscape.  I went but I wouldn’t recommend a special trip.  Nothing special here.

• • Paseo de la Reforma is one of Mexico City’s most iconic and important avenues, stretching over 12 kilometers from the upscale neighborhood of Chapultepec in the west to the historic center, where it culminates near the famous Ángel de la Independencia monument. Known for its wide, tree-lined streets, green spaces, and decorative fountains, Reforma creates a vibrant and inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for leisurely strolls, photography, or enjoying a coffee at one of the many nearby cafes. Home to many of Mexico City’s financial institutions, corporate headquarters, embassies, and government offices, Reforma is also a cultural hub, featuring prominent theaters, museums, and art galleries. It’s a key site for major events, parades, and protests, including the famous Mexico City Independence Day celebrations. However, one of the best aspects of Reforma is how it transforms on Sundays. From 8 AM to 2 PM, the avenue is closed to car traffic for Muévete en Bici, an event promoting cycling, walking, and running, allowing locals and visitors alike to enjoy the iconic avenue in a more relaxed and eco-friendly way.

• • Mirador Torre Latino / Torre Latinoamericana:  This skyscraper offers an observation deck with panoramic city views from the 47th floor. The cost is $10 US and worth every penny.  You’ll have two stops on the elevator. Take advantage of the panoramic view on each floor stop.

• • Metropolitan Cathedral: A gorgeous church adjacent to the Zacolo. The Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana de la Asunción de la Santísima Virgen María a los cielos) in Mexico City is the largest and one of the most historically significant cathedrals in the Americas. Located in Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución), the heart of the city, the cathedral took nearly 250 years to complete (1573–1813) and features a blend of architectural styles, including Baroque, Neoclassical, and Gothic. It was built using stones from the ancient Aztec Templo Mayor, which once stood nearby.
  • Alameda Central Park Adjacent to Palacio de Bellas Artes, this is a historic park perfect for candid photography and relaxation. A gorgeous green park where locals gather and is teaming with food vendors on the weekends. If you love people watching this is the place for you.

• • Palacio de Bellas Artes Admire the stunning Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture, catch a ballet or cultural performance, and visit the museum showcasing Rivera and other Mexican artists. A stunning example of Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture, this cultural center is a must-visit for capturing intricate details and grand exteriors.

• • Museo Mural Diego Rivera (free) This museum houses Rivera’s famous mural Sueño de una Tarde Dominical en la Alameda Central, depicting a vibrant and colorful snapshot of Mexican history. The mural itself is a masterpiece and great for detailed shots of the figures and scenes. 

  • Museo de Antropología. This world-class museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the rich history of Mexico and its ancient civilizations. The museum’s architecture is equally impressive, with grand stone facades and modernist touches. You’ll find iconic exhibits like the Aztec Sun Stone, the Maya exhibit, and stunning archaeological artifacts that offer a chance to capture unique cultural history through your lens. Pro tip: The outdoor courtyard is often quieter and great for capturing architectural details and the interplay of light and shadow.

EPXLORE MEXICO CITY: WHERE TO EAT IN MEXICO CITY

Here are some standout restaurants I highly recommend

“The meal was exceptional … Each dish was bursting with superb flavors, showcasing a level of creativity and inventiveness rarely found.” 

Azul Condesa – Condesa
A gem of a restaurant. About a fifteen minute walk from Parque Mexico.  Superb service.  Outstanding menu and cuisine. I had a long dinner in the dining room and a lovely lunch on their sun drenched patio. Azul has an amazing mezcal menu. I enjoyed a very generous pour of a 25 year mezcal served from a traditional gourd. They make their own tortillas on premises pictured above. A meal highlight was a starter of a lovely tamale with fresh crab meat and a delicious tender chicken with black mole poblano.  My mouth is watering just thinking about the mole. Their by the glass wine list is excllent too. I enjoyed a wonderful Nebiolo Barbera blend from Gadalupe, Baja California, North, Mexico. I highly recommend Azul Condesa.  Their menu is season, the food is super fresh and experty prepared with great care. Excellent service. The resaurant is charming. Perfect for a single traveler or for a date night. Calle de Av. Oaxaca 74, Condesa, 06100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico.

Pargot – Roma Norte
A friend told me about Pargot. I ate there on the final night that they were a four table restaurant with tables were on the sidewalk and a tiny storefront kitchen. The next day they would open in a new space across the street with eleven tables. The best and most inventive cusine I had on CDMX, with very attnetive service. Excellent wines by the glass from Guadalupe.  Pargot is a contemporary Mexican restaurant located at  Under the guidance of Chef Alexis Ayala, Pargot offers a menu that evolves seasonally, presenting creative interpretations of traditional Mexican cuisine. The establishment has been recognized with the “Bib Gourmand” distinction in the 2024 Michelin Guide, highlighting its quality and value. Menu highlights include dishes such as chicken wing croquettes, black cod with samphire mole, and strawberry mixiote with foie gras ice cream, showcasing the chef’s innovative approach to Mexican flavors. Calle Córdoba 212 in the Roma Norte neighborhood of Mexico City.

I wrote this after my dinner to Pargot.“The meal was exceptional. I started with the Clam Stew, followed by the Blue Crab Bisque Risotto, and ended with the Stuffed Chile for dessert. Each dish was bursting with superb flavors, showcasing a level of creativity and inventiveness rarely found. To accompany the meal, I enjoyed two excellent glasses of Mexican wine from Guadalupe — a Chardonnay that tasted like a white Burgundy and an excellent Merlot — both of which perfectly complemented the cuisine. The service was impeccable, thanks to David, my attentive and knowledgeable server. Pargot is a must-visit for anyone seeking innovative, high-level cooking in CDMX. Their thoughtful execution and bold creativity will leave you truly spellbound.” 

Çuina Restaurant – Roma Norte
This hidden gem is an architectural masterpiece, tucked away in plain sight. With soaring greenhouse-style glass ceilings, three distinct dining zones, and towering trees growing within the restaurant itself, the setting is nothing short of breathtaking. A must-visit for foodies who appreciate stunning design, this space offers an immersive experience where artisanal cuisine, handcrafted pastries, and freshly baked breads take center stage. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate, making it a destination for lovers of culinary and architectural artistry alike. Tabasco 46, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico.

Panadería Rosetta – Roma Norte
Equisite breakfasts, include perfeclty soft boiled eggs with whole wheat toast cut from a loaf of their freshly baked bread. To die for pastries. Their breakfast menu and pastry offerings will keep you returning for more. I ate there three times for breakfast. I enjoy sitting at their counter and met lots of travelrs and shared food and great conversations. One conversstion lead to fabulous restaurant recommendations for my trop to Oaxaca. My favorite paster is their fig doughnut. It is covered with a green glaze made from fig leaves. Inside is a surprise of fresh fig jam and a generous dolop of sweet yellow custard.  OMG, my mouth is watering just writing about this delicatable concoction. Their coffee drink selections and juices are many, I opted for a prefeclty crafted flat white. The lines can be long, up to 30 minute or more wait, I recommend getting there early in the monring, as soon as they open. Turst me it’s worth it.  Side note: Their staff is amazing.  The panderia is owned by the same folks who run the Michelin starred Rosetta (across the avenue) which I didn’t care for. I found the food lacking in inventivness, and way over priced, just oaky, and not desierving of a Michelin star. Colima 179, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico.

Bandido – Polanco
A charming small bar and restraurant frequented by locals.  Steps away from Parque Lincoln. I stopped in for a mezcal cocktail laced with with a hint of fresh rosemary. Ask to say hello to Lucy she is the owner.  Avenida Emilio Castelar 208, Polanco. 11540 Miguel Hidalgo, CDMX, Mexico.

La Casa de Toño  – Centro Histórico
Is a well-known restaurant chain in Mexico City, famous for its affordable and delicious traditional Mexican food. It is stark with a cafetria vibe.  It started as a small eatery and has grown into a beloved institution with multiple locations across the city. Pozole – Their signature dish, a flavorful hominy soup with pork or chicken, served with condiments like lettuce, radish, lime, and oregano, and is outstanding. I also enjoyed a freshly made delicious quesadilla packed with two types of pork, from the head and from the body, with melted cheese,  stuffed into a large folded corn tortilla. And a large horchata.  My meal was roughly $8 before tip. Excellent and freindly service.  La Casa de Toño is located on the 2nd floor at Plaza Juárez, at Dolores 7, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City, with the postal code 06000.

If you are staying in another area of the city, don’t worry, La Casa de Toño is a well-known chain of restaurants in Mexico City, specializing in pozole and traditional Mexican antojitos. Founded in 1985 by Antonio Campos, it has grown to nearly 60 locations across Mexico City and the State of Mexico.

Suntory Del Valle – World Trade Center
Suntory Del Valle is a distinguished Japanese restaurant located in Mexico City’s Del Valle neighborhood. It’s a sixty second walk from the Hyatt Regency Insurgentes with a grogeous, authentic Japanese interior. If you are looking for an excellent japanese dining experience and excellent sushi this is the place for you. It’s a splurge and worth it. The food and service are both top. kRenowned for its authentic Japanese cuisine, the restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring dishes such as Shabu-Shabu, Sukiyaki, Kabutoyaki, and Kaiseki—a fine dining experience. Torres Adalid 14, Col. Del Valle, 03100 Mexico City.

My next blog post will be Oaxaca: “Oaxaca Unveiled: A Journey Through Culture, Cuisine & Color”

Thinking of a Winter Get-Away?  Check out my Insider Tips for Paris Travel During January guide.