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Planning a trip to Mexico City? You’re in the right place!
This is one of those destinations that sweeps you off your feet the second you arrive. From ancient Aztec ruins to tree-lined boulevards and some of the best tacos you’ll ever eat, Mexico City has a way of surprising you at every turn. Of course, with a city this big and buzzing, figuring out where to stay can feel a little overwhelming.
That’s where we come in. We’ve broken down the best neighborhoods in Mexico City, each with its own unique vibe, whether you’re after history, nightlife, leafy parks, or a splash of luxury. And because we know everyone travels differently, we’ve included hotel recommendations for every budget.
Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in Mexico City is Roma Norte! This neighborhood is seriously charming and filled with trendy cafes, art galleries, locally owned businesses, and more.
We recommend staying at ONTO Alvaro Obregon Mexico City. It’s a balance of comfort and luxury, at a budget-friendly price point and a prime location!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Where to Stay in Mexico City Map
- Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Mexico City
- Important Tip
- Where to Stay in Mexico City
- Top Activities to do in Mexico City, Mexico
- Thanks for reading!
- Renting a Car in Mexico
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Where to Stay in Mexico City Map
Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Mexico City
Choosing the right neighborhood can really shape your Mexico City experience. The city is absolutely massive, but the good news is that the main tourist-friendly districts are fairly close to each other. It’s safe as long as you keep your street smarts about you, and you’ll quickly find that each area has its own personality, from leafy, café-filled streets to bustling historic squares.
Getting around is easy, too. For shorter trips, we always recommend using Uber since it’s safe, reliable, and inexpensive. If you’re sticking around a bit longer and want to experience daily life like a local, the metro system is a great (and cheap!) way to get across town. Now let’s dive into the neighborhoods we think are the best bases for your adventure.
- Roma Norte – Trendy, charming, and packed with cool cafés and art galleries. It’s one of the most walkable and stylish corners of the city. ONTO Alvaro Obregon is a lovely spot here if you want a balance of comfort and location.
- Centro Histórico – This is the beating heart of Mexico City, full of historic landmarks, grand plazas, and endless energy. NH Collection México City puts you right in the middle of it all.
- La Condesa – Leafy streets, chic boutiques, and two big parks make this neighborhood feel like a little oasis. AR 218 Hotel by ULIV is a favorite for those who want a relaxed yet stylish stay.
- Polanco – Upscale and polished, this is where you’ll find luxury shopping, world-class dining, and high-end hotels. Suites Obelisk makes a great home base in this glamorous district.
- Juárez (Zona Rosa) – A lively, up-and-coming area with nightlife, street art, and a vibrant energy that keeps things fun. Galeria Plaza Reforma is a solid choice for being right in the action.
- Colonia Cuauhtémoc – Central, family-friendly, and international, with easy access to Reforma Avenue and plenty of dining options. Sheraton Mexico City Maria Isabel is a convenient option here.
Important Tip
Multiple Mexico City trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Mexico City accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Mexico City
Roma Norte
Roma Norte is easily one of the most charming corners of Mexico City and the kind of place where you can happily spend days just wandering. Think leafy streets lined with art nouveau mansions, cozy cafés on every corner, and an ever-growing collection of hip bars, galleries, and boutiques. It’s trendy but in a laid-back way, perfect for anyone who loves a neighborhood that mixes creativity with a touch of old-world charm.
We think Roma Norte is especially great for foodies, you’ll find everything from casual taco joints to some of the city’s best fine-dining restaurants. The neighborhood also puts you within walking distance of Condesa, another stylish district with big leafy parks, so it’s easy to explore both. The atmosphere feels safe and walkable, making it a top pick for first-time visitors who want to stay central without being right in the chaos of the historic center.
On the flip side, Roma Norte can be more expensive compared to other parts of the city, and some travelers might find it a little less “authentic Mexico” since it leans into its cosmopolitan, international vibe. But if you’re after comfort, style, and great food at your doorstep, this is the spot.
Pros
- Walkable, safe, and full of trendy cafés, restaurants, and bars
- Charming mix of historic architecture and modern creativity
Cons
- Can be pricier compared to other neighborhoods
- Less traditional feel, with a more international vibe
Brick Hotel Mexico City – $$$
If you’re in the mood for a little celebrity treatment, Brick Hotel Mexico City delivers it in style. Housed in an early 20th-century mansion, this Small Luxury Hotels of the World property blends historic elegance with modern flair. We love how each room feels unique, with sleek design touches, flat-screen TVs, and private balconies that open right into the lively Roma vibe.
The location couldn’t be better, you’re on Orizaba Street, just steps from buzzing cafés, galleries, and nightlife, plus the OMR Gallery is only a 5-minute stroll away. Reforma and Insurgentes, two of the city’s main avenues, are also close by, so getting around is a breeze.
To top it off, you’re welcomed with a drink on arrival, a little touch that sets the tone for your stay. Rooms here start from around $650 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay at Booking.com!
ONTO Alvaro Obregon Mexico City – $$
Modern, stylish, and full of thoughtful details, ONTO Alvaro Obregón makes a fantastic base in Roma Norte. The hotel has a fresh, contemporary vibe with bright rooms that include kitchenettes, balconies, and even outdoor dining spaces, perfect if you like a little extra comfort and flexibility during your stay.
We really like how the hotel blends convenience with a touch of elegance. There’s a sun terrace for unwinding, a sleek restaurant serving Italian classics, and a bar that’s ideal for a casual evening drink. With landmarks like The Angel of Independence a short distance away, the location keeps you right in the action without feeling hectic.
Rooms here start from around $300 USD per night.
Check all room categories and book your stay here!
Stanza Hotel – $
If you’re looking for comfort without the hefty price tag, Stanza Hotel is a solid pick in the Roma–Condesa area. Rooms are simple but practical, with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and coffee makers to help you kick-start your mornings. Free Wi-Fi and a gym add to the convenience, making it easy to keep up with your routine while away.
One of the highlights here is Maíz and Olivo, the on-site restaurant that dishes up Mediterranean–Mexican fusion (with vegetarian choices, too!).
The hotel keeps you close to Roma’s lively streets and within easy reach of the historic center, so you get the best of both worlds. Rooms start from around $130 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay at Booking.com!
Centro Histórico
If you want to be right in the heart of the action, Centro Histórico is the place to be. This is the oldest part of Mexico City and where you’ll find its most iconic sights, from the massive Zócalo square and the grand Metropolitan Cathedral to the ruins of Templo Mayor. We love how every street here seems to tell a story, with colonial-era buildings standing shoulder to shoulder with buzzing markets and street food vendors. It’s history, culture, and pure energy rolled into one.
Staying in Centro means you’ll never be far from the city’s main attractions, which makes it ideal for first-time visitors and history buffs. You’ll also have easy access to museums, government buildings, and plenty of restaurants that range from budget-friendly eats to elegant dining.
That said, it can get crowded (especially around the Zócalo), and the pace is definitely busier than in leafier neighborhoods like Roma or Condesa. For us, though, that energy is part of its charm.
Pros
- Perfect for sightseeing, with major landmarks just steps away
- Bustling atmosphere full of markets, museums, and restaurants
Cons
- Can feel hectic and crowded, especially during peak hours
- Less green space and quieter corners compared to other districts
Zocalo Central & Rooftop Mexico City – $$$
For a front-row seat to Mexico City’s history, it doesn’t get much better than Zócalo Central. This stylish hotel sits right next to the National Cathedral on the very spot where Moctezuma’s Palace once stood, talk about atmosphere! Inside, you’ll find modern, refurbished rooms and suites, some with postcard-worthy views over the iconic Zócalo square.
One of our favorite features is the rooftop restaurant and terrace, where you can enjoy Mexican flavors while soaking in the city’s skyline. The hotel also adds thoughtful touches like a steam room and a 24-hour front desk that can help arrange tours or tickets to shows. With major sights like Palacio de Bellas Artes and Alameda Park just a short walk away, you couldn’t be more central if you tried.
Rooms average between $350–$450 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
NH Collection México City Centro Histórico – $$
If you want modern comfort in the middle of all the action, NH Collection Centro Histórico hits the sweet spot. The rooms are sleek and stylish, with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and even coffee machines to get you fueled for a day of exploring. We love how the design feels fresh and contemporary while still being just steps away from the city’s most historic sights.
There’s a terrace for relaxing, plus a bar and shared lounge that make it easy to unwind after sightseeing. The on-site restaurant serves up a generous breakfast (continental or buffet style), and if you need a little extra help planning your time, the 24-hour front desk and tour desk are always ready with suggestions. Being a short stroll from Zócalo Square and the Metropolitan Cathedral means you’ll never miss a beat.
Rooms here average around $150 USD per night.
Check all the room options and secure your stay today!
Colmena Hotel CDMX Centro – $
For a budget-friendly stay right in the thick of Mexico City’s historic center, Colmena Hotel CDMX Centro is a fantastic pick. Rooms are simple yet comfortable, with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms, plus some offer lovely views of the city or courtyard. We especially like that they have family rooms and flexible check-in services, making it easy for all kinds of travelers.
The hotel also brings in some nice extras, like a fitness center, sun terrace, and even an outdoor fireplace for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Breakfast is included, with a spread of pancakes, fruit, and cheeses to kick-start your morning. With the Zócalo, National Palace, and Metropolitan Cathedral just a short stroll away, you’ll have history at your doorstep.
Rooms here start from around $100 USD per night.
Book your stay now and enjoy the heart of Mexico City!
La Condensa
La Condesa feels like one big leafy escape in the middle of Mexico City. With its wide, tree-lined avenues, elegant art deco buildings, and two gorgeous parks, Parque México and Parque España, it’s a neighborhood made for slow strolls and people-watching. We think it’s one of the city’s most relaxed districts, where you can sip coffee at a sidewalk café, pop into a boutique, or spend the afternoon wandering through green spaces that make you forget you’re in a bustling capital.
This is a fantastic area for couples, creatives, and anyone who loves a mix of local charm and international style. You’ll find chic restaurants and cocktail bars scattered throughout the neighborhood, as well as an artsy vibe that overlaps with neighboring Roma. It’s also very walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.
The only downsides? It’s not the cheapest part of the city, and if you’re after constant buzz and nightlife, it’s definitely quieter than Centro or Zona Rosa. But honestly, we love that balance of calm and style.
Pros
- Beautiful parks and leafy streets perfect for walking
- Trendy cafés, boutiques, and restaurants with an artsy vibe
Cons
- Hotel and restaurant prices can be on the higher side
- A quieter neighborhood, less nightlife compared to other areas
Andaz Condesa Mexico City, By Hyatt – $$$
Andaz Condesa is the kind of place that makes you feel like a VIP from the moment you walk in. Rooms are sleek and stylish with city views, stocked mini-bars, and all the modern touches you’d expect from a Hyatt property. We love the little extras, like yoga classes in the garden or simply lounging by the rooftop pool with sweeping views of Mexico City.
The facilities really make this hotel shine. There’s a spa for when you want some pampering, a fitness center if you like to stay active, and multiple dining options that range from a hearty American buffet breakfast to elegant dinners with vegan and gluten-free choices. Everything feels polished but also approachable, which is a sweet balance for Condesa.
Rooms here average between $400–$500 USD per night.
Check availability and treat yourself to a stylish stay in Condesa!
AR 218 Hotel by ULIV – $$
If you like the idea of having your own little home base in Condesa, AR 218 Hotel is a fantastic choice. The property is made up of stylish, apartment-style suites complete with kitchenettes, modern bathrooms, and flat-screen TVs. Some even come with a desk or terrace, making it easy to settle in whether you’re staying a few nights or a bit longer.
What we love about AR 218 is the balance of independence and hotel-style service. You get the freedom of self-catering, but still have a 24-hour front desk, housekeeping, and optional extras like dry cleaning or ironing service. Plus, you’re just a short walk from Condesa’s vibrant restaurants, bars, and leafy parks, so exploring couldn’t be easier. Free parking is a nice perk too, especially if you’re planning to drive.
Rooms start from around $250 USD per night.
Book your suite and enjoy Condesa living at its best!
Casa Nuevo Leon – $
Casa Nuevo León is a cozy and budget-friendly spot that makes you feel right at home in Condesa. Rooms are bright and comfortable, complete with air-conditioning, soundproofing, and city views. We like how practical they are, too, with a work desk and TV, perfect if you need a little balance of downtime and productivity.
Food-wise, the hotel has a modern restaurant serving both Mexican favorites and international dishes, with plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. You can enjoy your meal in the outdoor seating area or grab a coffee at the in-house café before heading out for the day. The location keeps you close to highlights like Chapultepec Castle and the Angel of Independence, while the 24-hour front desk and tour desk make planning adventures simple.
Rooms start from around $130 USD per night.
Check prices and book your stay today!
Polanco
Polanco is Mexico City’s polished, glamorous side, the place to be if you love luxury shopping, fine dining, and chic hotel living. Often compared to Beverly Hills, this neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most upscale boutiques and designer stores, as well as a world-class culinary scene that includes the famous Pujol restaurant.
The wide, tree-lined avenues and modern architecture give it a sophisticated, international feel, while still keeping you close to cultural gems like the Soumaya Museum and Chapultepec Park.
We think Polanco is a great fit for those who like a little indulgence in their travels, whether that’s spending an afternoon browsing high-end shops, sipping cocktails in a sleek lounge, or staying somewhere with five-star amenities. It’s also a safe and well-connected area, making it easy to get around.
The trade-off? It’s definitely one of the most expensive parts of Mexico City, and you won’t get the same local, laid-back vibe that you’d find in neighborhoods like Roma or Condesa. Still, if luxury is on your wishlist, Polanco ticks all the boxes.
Pros
- Upscale neighborhood with luxury shopping and world-class dining
- Close to museums and Chapultepec Park for culture and green space
Cons
- One of the priciest areas to stay in Mexico City
- Less traditional or “local” atmosphere compared to other districts
Hyatt Regency Mexico City – $$$
Set right next to the greenery of Chapultepec Park, Hyatt Regency Mexico City is a sleek, five-star escape in the heart of Polanco. Rooms are modern and elegant, with sweeping city or park views, plus all the details that make a stay comfortable, with coffee makers, plush bathrobes, and free Wi-Fi throughout.
Dining here is an experience in itself. You’ve got three on-site restaurants to choose from, and don’t miss the Amado bakery either, it’s a sweet spot for picking up traditional Mexican treats. With bars, a business center, and top attractions like the National Auditorium and Anthropology Museum just a short walk away, everything feels at your fingertips.
Rooms start from around $300 USD per night.
Treat yourself and book a stay in Polanco’s luxury hub!
Suites Obelisk – $$
Suites Obelisk is a stylish stay right by Lincoln Park, giving you the perfect mix of greenery and Polanco’s upscale vibe. Rooms are modern and comfortable, with sleek décor, cable TV, and well-equipped bathrooms, everything you need for a stress-free stay. We especially like the little extras, like a safety deposit box and free Wi-Fi, that make things feel easy and convenient.
Mornings start with a continental breakfast in the hotel’s dining room, but you’ll also be spoiled for choice with plenty of great restaurants just steps away. The location makes it simple to explore Polanco on foot, while being just a short ride from the city center if you want to dive into the historic core. Add in a gym for keeping up your routine, and it’s a well-rounded pick in one of Mexico City’s most elegant neighborhoods.
Rooms start from around $210 USD per night.
Book your stay here and enjoy Polanco living!
Lamartine 619 Residencial – $$
Lamartine 619 Residencial is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve scored your very own Polanco apartment, but with all the perks of a hotel. The suites come with kitchenettes, washing machines, and balconies with city views, so you can settle in and feel right at home. We also love the little touches, like streaming services for a cozy night in and private check-in that keeps things easy and relaxed.
Outside your room, there’s plenty to enjoy. Borrow a complimentary bike and cruise around leafy Polanco, unwind on the terrace with a coffee, or just soak up the calm in the garden. The location is a win too, you’re within a short walk of the National Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Forest, so culture and green space are right at your doorstep.
Rooms start from around $200 USD per night.
Book your stay and live the Polanco lifestyle without breaking the bank!
Related Read: Let us help you plan the rest of your trip! See our 3-day Mexico City itinerary for our personal favorite activities and can’t-miss sights!
Juarez (Zona Rosa)
Juárez, often called Zona Rosa, is one of Mexico City’s liveliest neighborhoods and has a little bit of everything. By day, it’s a bustling hub with cafés, quirky shops, and colorful street art, while by night it transforms into one of the city’s most vibrant nightlife areas. We love how the neighborhood feels constantly on the move, it’s creative, energetic, and just a little edgy.
This is a great spot if you want to be close to Roma and Condesa but with a lower price tag, or if you’re looking for a fun base where there’s always something going on. Zona Rosa is also known for being LGBTQ+ friendly and welcoming, adding to its open, inclusive atmosphere.
The vibe is less polished than Polanco and not as leafy as Condesa, but that’s also part of the charm. The main trade-offs? It can get noisy, especially at night, and the energy isn’t for everyone. But if you’re after a lively, central spot with plenty of character, Juárez might be your match.
Pros
- Fun, energetic neighborhood with great nightlife and street art
- LGBTQ+ friendly and welcoming atmosphere
Cons
- Can get noisy, especially in the evenings
- Streets feel less polished compared to other districts
Mexico City Marriott Reforma Hotel – $$$
If you’re looking for comfort with a dash of luxury, the Mexico City Marriott Reforma Hotel is a top choice. Located right by the Angel of Independence and Reforma Avenue, it puts you in the middle of the city’s energy while giving you plenty of ways to unwind. Rooms are spacious and modern, with 42-inch TVs, coffee makers, and minibars, little touches that make your stay feel easy.
We love that this hotel packs in so many amenities. There’s a rooftop pool for sunny afternoons, a fitness center to balance out the tacos, and even a spa when you need some serious relaxation. Dining is a treat too, with Condimento serving Mexican and international flavors all day and La Mansion offering classic steakhouse fare.
Rooms here average between $200 and $300 USD per night.
Check availability and treat yourself to a Reforma stay in style!
Galeria Plaza Reforma – $$
Galería Plaza Reforma is a sleek stay in Zona Rosa that balances business-ready polish with plenty of comfort for leisure travelers. With over 400 rooms, it feels like a big-city hotel but without losing the personal touches that make a stay memorable. The design is modern, the service has won awards, and the location is spot on, just a block from Reforma and surrounded by restaurants, shops, and boutiques.
We like how it works equally well for a business trip or a city break. You can start your day with a stroll through the lively neighborhood, pop into a café or boutique nearby, and then come back to a hotel that has all the 5-star essentials. It’s stylish, convenient, and one of Zona Rosa’s most reliable picks.
Rooms start from around $160 USD per night.
Book your stay here and enjoy Reforma at your doorstep!
MC Suites Mexico City- $
MC Suites Mexico City proves that budget-friendly doesn’t mean boring. The rooms are spacious and modern, with air-conditioning, walk-in showers, streaming services, and even plush bathrobes, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. We love how quiet and comfortable it feels, thanks to soundproofing, so you can count on a good night’s sleep even in the heart of the city.
The hotel has some nice extras too, like a hot tub for relaxing, 24-hour front desk service, and full-day security that keeps things stress-free. Location-wise, it’s a winner with Reforma, the Angel of Independence, and the Museum of Fine Arts all just a short ride or walk away, so sightseeing is easy.
Rooms start from around $100 USD per night.
Check prices and grab yourself a stylish bargain in Mexico City!
Colonia Cuauhtémoc
Colonia Cuauhtémoc is a central, easygoing neighborhood that’s perfect if you want a balance between local life and tourist convenience. Right off Paseo de la Reforma (check out the Monument to Cuauhtémoc!), it’s well connected to the rest of the city while still feeling quieter and more residential than areas like Centro or Zona Rosa.
We love how it mixes leafy streets, international restaurants, and cozy cafés, making it a great pick for families or anyone who prefers a calmer base without being far from the action.
This area is also close to several key sights, including the Angel of Independence and Chapultepec Park, so you’ll have cultural highlights and green spaces within easy reach. It’s safe and walkable, with plenty of options for dining, from casual tacos to international favorites.
The one drawback? It doesn’t have quite the same trendy, artsy buzz as Roma or Condesa, and nightlife here is a little more subdued. Still, that’s part of the appeal, especially if you’re after a more relaxed stay in the middle of the city.
Pros
- Central and well-connected, right by Paseo de la Reforma
- Calmer, family-friendly vibe with plenty of dining options
Cons
- Less nightlife compared to trendier neighborhoods
- Lacks the artsy edge of Roma or Condesa
Hotel Marquis Reforma – $$$
Hotel Marquis Reforma is all about elegance on one of Mexico City’s most famous avenues, Paseo de la Reforma. Rooms are chic and comfortable, with views of either the hotel’s gardens or nearby Chapultepec Park. We especially love the little luxuries, like L’Occitane toiletries and well-stocked minibars that make your stay feel extra indulgent.
Dining is another highlight; you can choose from Mexican and Spanish dishes at Los Canarios, enjoy international plates at A La Parrilla, or go for something more laid-back at La Cuchara de San Sebastián. And if relaxation is high on your list, the adults-only spa is a must. Add in a gym, beauty salon, and even bike rentals, and you’ve got everything you need without leaving the hotel.
Rooms start at around $280 USD per night.
Check availability and treat yourself to a stay with style!
Sheraton Mexico City Maria Isabel – $$
Sheraton Maria Isabel puts you right in the middle of the action on Paseo de la Reforma, literally across from the Angel of Independence. The location doesn’t get much better, especially if you want easy access to both the city’s business district and top landmarks. Rooms are spacious and elegant, with plush beds, minibars, and sleek bathrooms designed for comfort.
What makes this hotel stand out are its extras. You can take a dip in the outdoor pool, hit the fitness center, or even play a round on the tennis court. Dining is a treat too, with the award-winning Ristorante Amici serving Italian favorites, while the lively Jorongo Bar brings in mariachi music for an authentic Mexican touch. It’s a great mix of international polish and local flair.
Rooms start at around $200 USD per night.
Book your stay here on Booking.com!
Hotel Park Nilo Reforma – $
Hotel Park Nilo Reforma is a great pick if you’re after comfort with a little splash of wellness in the heart of the city. Rooms are spacious and modern, with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and comfy furnishings that make it easy to settle right in. Free Wi-Fi keeps you connected, and private bathrooms come with all the essentials for a smooth stay.
The facilities here go above and beyond for a budget-friendly option. You’ve got a spa, sauna, fitness center, and even yoga classes to balance out busy days of sightseeing. There’s also a steam room, solarium, and a sun terrace, plenty of ways to relax without leaving the hotel.
Rooms average around $140 USD per night.
Check rates and book your stay for a value-packed Reforma getaway!
Top Activities to do in Mexico City, Mexico
Now that you’ve picked out your favorite area and hotel, you can start filling in your itinerary! There is plenty to do here, whether you’re exploring the city or taking off on a day trip. To help make the most of your time, here are our favorite things we did in Mexico City that you can’t miss!
- Spend a day at Teotihuacan – Discover ancient Aztec history on this Teotihuacan day trip! Seeing the ruins is already impressive, and learning about the thousands of years of history made the site more impactful. The day includes other stops for a fully immersive day trip!
- Go on a food tour – If you love Mexican food as much as we do, you can’t miss this food tour! Exploring the Historic Center with a local guide was insightful, and we tasted so many yummy dishes that we would have missed exploring on our own!
- Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum – For the art lovers out there, this Frida Kahlo tour checks all the boxes. Explore Coyoacán and learn all about her life, see her art, and then enjoy a boat ride on the canals of Xochimilco! It’s truly a colorful day!
- See a Lucha Libre show – Dive into Mexico’s culture with this Lucha Libre experience! This night is seriously fun as you see a theatrical wrestling show in the lively Arena Mexico, paired with dinner, drinks, and a chance to talk with a retired luchador.
- Take a cooking class – Learning how to cook authentic Mexican food in this cooking class is the ultimate souvenir! Led by a local chef, you’ll visit a market to buy fresh ingredients, then learn how to make tortillas, salsa, and a flavorful meat stew – it’s all so tasty and serious fun!
Related Read: Still planning your trip? Check out our complete list of the top things to do in Mexico City for more of our favorite activities!
Renting a Car in Mexico
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car.
I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically.
I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too.
Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit.
Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper!
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We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
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Thanks for reading!
Mexico City is a massive city, so we understand how daunting it can be to decide where to stay! Luckily, we did the research for you – stick to our area recommendations and favorite hotels, and you can find a spot that is safe, within your budget, and close to top sights.
We hope you found this guide helpful! Before you go, check out our other Mexico blogs – you’ll find tons of tips, itineraries, and tour recommendations to make your travels even easier. Here are a few related posts to get you started!
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Bacalar, Mexico: The Best 3-Day Itinerary
Where to Stay in Oaxaca City, Mexico: 5 Best Areas & Hotels
Where to Stay in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico: 7 Best Areas & Hotels