Mexico City: so much more than a metropolitan capital!

tourHQ Editorials

31 Oct 2014 | 10 mins read

Thunderous mariachis and brightly colored dancers conjure up images of Mexico. Yet, a visit to its capital, Mexico City, or the Distrito Federal (D.F.), will prove that there is so much more to this city, and country. Located in the high valley of Mexico, built upon dry lakebeds, and settled in the surrounds of mountains and two volcanoes nearby, Mexico City beckons people from around the world. This international metropolis is a feast for the traveler’s senses, offering everything from stunning scenery, distinctive architecture and cultural artistry, to a buzzing nightlife and world famous cuisine.

Mexico City

A Brief Lookback into History

The Aztecs, also referred to as Mexicas, founded Mexico’s capital city in the 14^th century as Tenochtitlan. It was conquered nearly 200 years later by Spain, commencing Mexico’s Colonial Period when it served as Spain’s mexican capital during the 16^th through early 19^th centuries. The area still referred to as the Zocalo, or Plaza Mayor, existed at this time as the center of political and religious institutions, as well as the economic hub of the city. Rebellion against Spain grew, spurring violence and oppression, until independence was won in 1821. Since that time, Mexico City has experienced tremendous population growth and the resulting problems that come with such an accelerated pace of growth.

Zocalo. Ciudad de Mexico

Getting to Mexico City and Around Town

Travelers from all over the world fly into Mexico City International Airport, and plans are underway for a new, state-of-the-art international airport, beginning in 2018. Public transportation is readily available in and around the city, and fairly inexpensive. Visitors can take advantage of the Sistema de Transporte Colectivo, a bustling metro system that is the largest of its kind in Latin America.

Mexico City International Airport The Turibus is a handy way for tourists to circle the city landmarks and hear descriptions in English. Also, Mexico City has introduced the Metrobus, a more environment-friendly transportation option, in a deliberate effort to reduce pollution. Street trolleys are also available in some areas.

Metrobus, Mexico City

Things to Do

A good introduction to Mexico City begins in the Centro Historico, or historic center (zocalo) of Mexico City. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the enormous main square and enjoy stunning landmarks, such as the Plaza de la Constitucion, the nearby Xochimilco (also known as the “floating gardens”), the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Palace.

National Palace, Mexico The National Palace offers free admission and is the perfect place to visit on Mondays when most of the city’s museums are closed. Of special note at the palace is the mural of revered artist and activist Diego Rivera. For more of Rivera’s works, also visit the Secretaria de Educacion Publica. Admission is free and visitors can spend one to two hours admiring more of Rivera’s historic murals.

Murales de Diego Rivera The Great Temple of Mexico City’s pre-Hispanic civilization, the Templo Mayor, is open to the public for viewing. The Aztec excavation site, rediscovered in 1978, has an outdoor viewing area; however, it is recommended that non-Spanish speaking visitors engage the services of a Mexico City tour guide for a full understanding of the indoor exhibits.

Paseo de la Reforma, modeled after Paris’ Champs-Elysee, is home to the Angel of Independence, which famously serves as a victory column and symbol, celebrating the centennial of the beginning of Mexico’s fight for independence.

Angel of Independence Mexico City boasts a striking concentration of museums (over a hundred and sixty of them!), many of which offer free admission on Sundays, which can also means bigger crowds. Museum hours are typically Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., although some stay open until 7 p.m.

New Mexico Museum of Art The National Museum of Anthropology, located in Chapultepec, Polanco, is a must-see landmark that houses the Aztec Calendar Stone and a stunning array of historical items from the Mayans and generations of indigenous peoples. Plan to spend a full day here. In the Centro Historico is the Museo Memoria y Tolerancia. This modern museum is dedicated to the victims of genocide and discrimination around the world, and provides an informative and moving history of the Holocaust. Although the subject is somber, the multi-media exhibits are compelling and a floor is dedicated to tolerance and hope.

Coatlicue Statue in National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City For historians, art lovers and those who enjoy a beautiful setting and exquisite architecture, the Museo Nacional de Arte, or National Museum of Art, in historic Mexico City provides visitors a full range of Mexican art from mid-sixteenth century until modern times. The permanent exhibit follows the development of fine arts in Mexico from the colonial period through independence, but new exhibits change regularly. A visit to see the building itself is highly recommended.

Museo Nacional de Arte Prepare yourself for an impressive tour of Mexico’s imperial residence at the Castle of Chapultepec. This historic castle turned museum offers beautiful architecture, gardens and expansive views of the city. Mexican Emperor Maximilian I resided in the castle during the second Mexican Empire. Movie buffs will be intrigued to know that Romeo & Juliet, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes, was filmed here.

Chapultepec Castle, Mexico City The Basilicas of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a Roman Catholic Church and an important pilgrimage site for millions of travelers each year. The original “tilma,” or cloak and image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, is kept here. Visitors can access this landmark by Metro, but should be prepared to walk the grounds.

Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe Mexican artist Frida Kahlo was born and later died in Coyoacan, a rural village that grew into one of Mexico City’s favorite modern, weekend getaways. The town, an integral part of historic Mexico City, hosts festivals, cafes and the studio, home and art collection of Kahlo. They are kept here at the Frida Kahlo Museum, called “La Casa Azul.” Visitors can also visit the home of Russian-born, Marxist revolutionary Leon Trotsky, which is also located in Coyoacan.

Frida Kahlo's House Museum

Interesting Neighborhoods

The Condesa District, home to one of Latin America’s largest and most architecturally beautiful bookstores, is also a delightful neighborhood to visit, easily accessible by Metrobus and a short walk from the Metro. After booming in the 1940s and 1950s during Mexico’s Golden Age of Cinema, the area unfortunately took an economic hit following Mexico City’s 8.1 magnitude earthquake in 1985. Many of Condesa’s Art Deco homes were damaged, but in the mid-1990s many people in the art community moved to Condesa and revived the district. Today, there are many cafes, bars and shops to visit.

Books on Sidewalk - Condesa District

A growing and trendy district, Colonia Roma, is quickly becoming the hip place for locals to buy real estate and visitors to explore. New restaurants and nightspots are opening all the time serving the range from breakfast to late night bars.

Casa Lamm, Roma Norte, México Distrito Federal

Good Eats and Drinks

Although Mexico City is best known for its fresh fish and seafood, its ever-changing restaurant scene continues to expand and dazzle. Foods representing all 31 states in Mexico can be found here, as well as an impressive offering of international cuisines.

If Lima-based haute Peruvian or Basque-Mexican fusion sounds appealing, or even an old-fashioned barbecue dinner, then visitors are sure to find it here. Traditional offerings include Aztec Soup (similar to tortilla soup), Chiles Rellenos and Cochinita Pibil, a tender pork loin wrapped in banana leaves and baked. Heavier meals are typically eaten in the afternoon between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., and dinners are served later around 9 p.m. Reservations are recommended at popular restaurants. San Angelo, Roma and the Condesa District are known for happening restaurants and nightlife; however, Polanco is fast becoming a popular nightspot, even more so than Condesa and La Zona Rosa.

Popular Camino Real Polanco Nightspot The bar scene sizzles as an integral part of Mexico City, but travelers should keep in mind the high altitude as they enjoy the local beverages. Pulquerias, or working class “pulque” bars, are recently becoming quite popular for some travelers. Pulque, a light, alcoholic drink made by fermenting the fresh sap of certain types of maguey, is served in bars in the Centro Historico. In the hip neighborhood of Roma, visitors are sure to find a modern take on the pulqueria.

Plaza Xicotencatl 3 - Pulqueria Discos and salsa clubs fill the city and make for a festive night on the town, but for a more high-energy, traditional Mexican experience visit Plaza Garibaldi, located in the historic area. Here, visitors can party to non-stop Mariachi music, which enjoys a substantial history in the plaza. Revitalization efforts in Plaza Garibaldi are still ongoing after much neglect.

The Mariachi Music

A Few Do's in Mexico City

DO book tickets to see the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico. Performances are held at the Palacio de Bellas Artes, a historic theater in Mexico City, as well as various venues around the area. Although tickets prices can be high, online reviews insist it is a spectacular night out, and the colorful costumes and cultural history are a must-see. Tickets can be ordered ahead of time through ticketing websites.
DO watch bullfighting at the Plaza Mexico bullring for a traditional, and some would say, controversial experience. Every Sunday during bullfighting season (November-April), locals and visitors can experience this cultural sport, or art form, in the largest bullring in the world with nearly 42,000 seats.
DO take a ride on a vintage rollercoaster, the Montana Rusa, at the traditional amusement park, La Feria de Chapultepec Magico.
DO cheer on one of Mexico’s football teams. The America plays at Azteca Stadium, while the football club, Universidad Nacional Cruz Azul, plays in the smaller venue, Olympic Stadium in Ciudad Universitaria.

Estadio Azteca, ciudad de México

A Few DON’TS in Mexico City

DON’T struggle with Spanish-only signs at many of Mexico City’s museums and exhibits. Most signs and reading materials are presented in Spanish only. Audio guides come in handy and are available for a fee at most tourist locations. Spend the extra $10 or so for the audio, or hire a guide for a more personalized tour.
DON’T forget to take photo ID on each day trip or museum visit. ID may be required and photocopies may not be accepted.

Weather in Mexico City

Surprisingly, Mexico City is quite temperate. Due to its elevation, the city’s mean average temperature is 60 degrees, with highs in the mid-80s and lows in the 40s. April and May are the city’s hottest months; while late May through early October are warm, with possible rain and cool nights. Winter weather prevails in late October through March. Interestingly, air pollution also increases during the winter months due to a temperature inversion.

Snow in Albuquerque

Mexico City: so much more than a metropolitan capital!

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