Diana Stefania & Joshua Philip
Things To Do
Xochimilco
A former freshwater lake transformed into a vast canal network by the Aztecs from as early as 1150 AD. Today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend the day on your own private boat, perfect for day drinking and enjoying fresh Mexican food from the floating kitchens — make sure you bring plenty of pesos!
Teotihuacán Pyramids
Teotihuacan is an ancient Mesoamerican city located 30 miles (50 km) northeast of modern-day Mexico City. The city, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, was settled as early as 400 B.C. and became the most powerful and influential city in the region by 400 A.D. By the time the Aztecs found the city in the 1400s and named it Teotihuacan (meaning “the place where the gods were created”), the city had been abandoned for centuries. Teotihuacan’s origins, history, and culture largely remain a mystery. Make sure to grab a bite at La Gruta for an incredible dining experience in a cave!
Palacio de Bellas Artes
A stunning palace in the city center, you'll spend hours marveling at the beautiful white-marble architecture and the murals by world-famous Mexican artists. The Bellas Artes Theater is itself a masterpiece, complete by a stain glass curtain assembled by Tiffany & Co. For a gorgeous view of the Palacio, checkout the cafe terrace of the Sears building across the road.
Casa Azul, The Frida Kahlo Museum
About a 20-30 minute car ride, step into the world of Frida Kahlo. Walk through her home and enjoy the beautiful collection on display!
Templo Mayor
The Aztec 'Great Temple' Teocalli of Tenochtitlán once toward here, at the exact spot where the Aztecs saw their symbolic eagle perching on a cactus with a snake in its beak. The museum onsite offers guided tours, an extensive collection of artifacts, and prized pieces such as the great stone of Coyolxauhqui, a monolithic stone carved with the image of Tlaltecuhtli, burial remains, and more!
The National Museum of Anthropology
A must see! This massive museum boasts 23 exhibition halls and 3,225 years of history. Learn about the Olmecs, Toltecs, Maya, and Aztecs. Get your picture in front of the world famous Piedra del Sol (Aztec calendar), Olmec heads, Coatlicue statue, and Moctezuma’s headdress.
Castillo de Chapultepec
Visit the only castle in the Americas located in the beautiful Bosque de Chapultepec, a park double the size of New York's Central Park. Built in 1785 and used as a national military academy — learn about los Niños Héroes (peek Diana's ancestor!) Home to the Emperor Maximilian and Empress Carlota in 1864, the presidential palace until 1939, today it is the Museum of National History. The castle is filled with stunning pieces in every room, beautiful artwork and architecture throughout, and the must-see panoramic Retablo de la Independencia (Panel of Independence).
Bosque de Chapultepec
Go for a relaxing stroll on rent a bike and see it all. There is lots to do here: book a guided tour, visit the Museum of Modern Art, take a paddle boat ride, or checkout the Tamayo Contemporary Art Museum. There is also the Niños Heroes Monument, Audiorama Sound Baths, Moctezuma Baths, street food markets, Chapultepec Zoo and artisanal shops.
Zócalo
The Plaza de la Constitución (commonly known as the Zócalo) is the main square of Mexico City, located in the heart of the city center. Prior to the colonial period, it was the main ceremonial center in the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan. In today's age, the Zócalo is used for cultural, political, and social gatherings, and it is one of the world’s largest city squares. The huge Mexican flag flying in the middle of the Zócalo is ceremonially raised at 8am by soldiers of the Mexican army, then lowered at 6pm. You'll also see the Palacio Nacional (the presidential palace), the Catedral Metropolitana, luxury jewelry shops and extravagant hotels. And, you might just catch the Danzantes Aztecas daily cultural dance in the plaza. There is lots to do, see, eat, and enjoy in the surrounding area!
Turibus
Hop-on hop-off bus tour! Explore Mexico City by hopping off at whatever stops interests you, or simply relax on board and ride the full route. Each route covers a distinct part of the Mexican capital, and the bus is equipped with a multilingual audio system that provides informative commentary.