10 Best Views in Mexico City (Rooftop Bars + More)

Mexico City is North America’s largest city (yep, bigger than NYC!) Yet, if you spend all your time in CDMX’s green tree-filled neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa, it can be easy to miss how vast the city is.

Thankfully, there are a handful of rooftop bars, restaurants, museums, and other buildings where you can get a glimpse of Mexico City’s stunning skyline.

Whether you’re looking to grab a drink with a view, want to journey to an Insta-worthy viewpoint, or want to observe life in less-known neighborhoods from above, this article is for you.

Keep reading to discover the best views in Mexico City, based on my experience as a frequent traveler to Mexico’s enchanting capital city.

Visiting Mexico City for the first time? Check out my first-timers Mexico City guide and Mexico City packing list to prepare for your trip!

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The Best Views in Mexico City

I recently visited CDMX for the fifth time, and one of my goals was to discover the absolute best views in Mexico City. I traveled far and wide, from towers and rooftop bars in Mexico City’s historic Centro neighborhood to cable cars that took me to unexplored parts of the city.

Each place on this list is unique and special, but there are certain viewpoints I want to go back to again and again when I’m in Mexico City in the future (I’ll share that below).

But first things first, let’s dive into my top recommendations for the best views in Mexico City.

The enchanting Mexico City skyline reflecting in the mirrors at Diego Rivera’s Museo Anahuacalli Rooftop

1. CableBús

Mexico City’s Brand New Cable Car System

Did you know that Mexico City has the longest cable car system in the world? And did you know that a ride only costs $7 pesos ($0.42 USD)?

Taking a ride on Mexico City’s cable car (called CableBús) is one of the most underrated things to do in Mexico City, and it also enables you to get some incredible skyline views.

There are two CableBús lines (and more to come), with the Iztapalapa (line 2) line at 10.5 kilometers long. The trip from one end to another takes about 30 minutes, passing above the densest areas of Mexico City, with skyline and volcano views in the distance and rooftop murals below.

Also Read: Full Guide to Riding the Mexico City CableBus as a Tourist

Pictures just don’t compare to the views from the CableBús (partly because of the glass windows)

First introduced in 2021, the cable car system has been a huge success for locals who rely on it for their daily commute. Mexico City traffic can be nasty, and the cable cars help locals in communities like Iztapalapa get to work in a fraction of the time.

Each gondola holds up to ten passengers, and cars arrive at the station every few moments during operating hours.

My husband and I taking in one of the best views in Mexico City from our CableBús car

How to take the Mexico City CableBús

During my recent visit to Mexico City, I explore the Iztapalapa cable car system (line 2) with a tour guide. Although taking the CableBús by yourself is easy and cheap, going with a guide enables you to more easily learn about, support, and respect the local community.

Whether it’s your first time in Mexico City or you are a frequent visitor, I highly recommend booking this CableBús tour with a local guide.

If you do choose to take the CableBús by yourself, you can reach each end via metro or Uber at the Constitución de 1917 and Santa Maria stations.

2. Mirador Torre Latino

An Unmissable Tower Rooftop in CDMX Centro

Mirador Torre Latino undoubtedly has the best view in Mexico City’s Centro Historico neighborhood. The viewpoint is located at the top of the Torre Latinoamericana skyscraper.

Since the tower is across the street from the famous Palacio de Bellas Artes and a few blocks from the Zocalo (main square), you get great views of these iconic Mexico City buildings from above and 360 degrees of skyline views.

The open-air observation deck at the top of Torre Latinoamericana

I recently visited the Torre Latinoamericana. Even after visiting several other viewpoints and rooftops in downtown Mexico City, Torre Latinoamericana had my favorite view.

The panoramic views from the tower’s 44th floor can’t be beat, and I loved taking in the scenery in the fresh air and taking photos without glass or plastic obstructing the view.

Palacio de Bellas Artes from the Mirador Torre Latino (one of the best views in Mexico City)

How to Visit Mirador Torre Latino at Torre Latinoamericana

It costs $180 pesos for adults to visit the open-air terrace on the 44th floor, but you can visit several other floors with tall glass windows for less.

The elevators are a bit rickety and old, so if you have a fear of heights or small spaces, be aware. Despite this, the tower staff are very kind, welcoming, and helpful, and the views at the top make up for the nerve-racking elevator journey.

Before climbing up the last set of stairs to the open-air terrace, you can buy drinks, popcorn, and other snacks from vendors on the lower floors. There is also a museum you can visit on floor 38.

For more information about visiting Mirador Torre Latino, check out the official Torre Latinoamericana website.

3. Terraza Catedral

Charming Mexico City Rooftop Bar Overlooking the Metropolitan Cathedral

Next up is my favorite rooftop bar in Mexico City, Terraza Catedral. Compared to other Mexico City rooftop bars and restaurants, Terraza Catedral is on the affordable side. Yet it’s centrally located, has a great view, friendly service, and tasty drinks.

Terazza Catedral, one of the best Mexico City rooftop bars

Terraza Catedral is located right behind Mexico City’s stunning Metropolitan Cathedral and a block away from the Zocalo (main square).

I recently visited Terraza Catedral right after their opening at about 1 pm on a weekday. Besides a few other people, I nearly had the whole rooftop to myself. I ordered a virgin mojito (delicious and refreshing) and guacamole (large bowl), and it only cost me $150 pesos (just under $9 USD).

The only downside to Terraza Catedral is the seating, which isn’t very comfortable. However, I can confidently say that Terraza Catedral is the top rooftop bar I will visit when I’m in CMDX again.

How to Visit Terraza Catedral

The bar is located on top of Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral, but anyone is welcome to visit, and most times of day, it doesn’t have a “hostel bar” vibe.

To visit, just ask the doorman at the Mundo Joven Catedral hostel for Terraza Catedral. You can say “puedo visitar Terraza Catedral?” and he will unlock a glass door that leads to an elevator. Take the elevator up a few floors, then walk up a set of stairs where you’ll arrive at one of the best rooftop bars in Mexico City.

4. Chapultepec Castle

America’s Only Real Castle (With Stunning City Skyline Views)

Once home to Austrian royalty, Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec) is the only true castle in the New World.

Located in Chapultepec Castle, Mexico City’s version of Central Park, the castle is now a museum open to the public and features some of the best views in the city.

After wandering through the castle’s grandeur halls and history exhibits, you can take in the Mexico City skyline from marble checker-floored balconies.

How to Visit Chapultepec Castle

Tourists can visit Chapultepec Castle six days a week (Tuesday through Sunday) for $90 pesos (just over $5 USD). You can buy tickets in person at the castle’s entry with cash or card.

To reach the castle, you’ll need to walk a few minutes through Chapultepec Park. If you have extra time, I recommend spending a few hours exploring the park before or after visiting the castle.

Since most of the exhibits in the castle are only in Spanish, I recommend considering this highly-rated guided tour (if you don’t speak Spanish). The tour also includes a guide in the Anthropology Museum, my favorite museum in Mexico City.

Regardless of if you go with a tour, or on your own, make sure you eat all your snacks ahead of time as food and drinks aren’t allowed and your bag will be searched prior to entry.

5. Finca don Porfirio

Classy Café with a Front-Row View of Iconic Palacio de Bellas Artes

Finca don Porfirio is a charming open-air cafe located directly across from the eye-catching Palacio de Bellas Artes building in Mexico City Centro Historico.

The coffee shop is situated on the 8th floor of the Sears building and typically has a long line. However, if you visit right at opening (11 am), you should be able to get a spot quickly.

Although the view of Palacio de Bellas Artes is undeniably stunning, I thought Finca don Porfirio was a little overrated compared to some of the other spots on this list. There is almost always a long line, and despite the line, service is very slow. Plus, you have to sit side-by-side next to other visitors.

However, if you’re not in a hurry and are going to get a drink either way, why not order a coffee (or tea) with a view at Finca don Porfirio?

Finca don Porfirio, one of the best views in Mexico City

How to Visit Finca don Porfirio

Enter the Sears Building and take the elevator (or stairs) all the way to floor 8. You’ll likely have to wait in a line before being seated on the open-air terrace.

6. Terraza Cha Cha Chá

Rooftop Restaurant with a Perfect View of Monument a la Revolution

Terraza Cha Cha Chá is a gorgeous rooftop restaurant on the edge of Plaza de la República, where the famous Monument a la Revolution is located.

Terraza Cha Cha Chá is quite a bit pricier than Terraza Catedral, but the atmosphere is elevated and the seating is comfier. It’s a great place to watch the golden sun set and gaze over the plaza and Monument a la Revolution.

Photos by Teraza Cha Cha Chá, one of the most charming Mexico City rooftop bars

Things to Know Before You Visit Terraza Cha Cha Chá

If you’re planning to visit the terrace in the evening or on the weekend, you may want to make a reservation online. Valet parking is available if needed.

7. Cityzen

Rooftop Restaurant Overlooking the Angel of Independence and Reforma Avenue

Located on the 38th floor of the Sofitel Mexico City Reforma Hotel, Cityzen is another spot with an incredible view of Mexico City’s skyline.

The bar overlooks the famous Angel of Independence and Reforma Avenue. The menu includes a small selection of dishes and a diversity of drinks (both alcoholic and nonalcoholic).

The Angel of Independence from below

Things to Know Before You Visit Cityzen

Advanced reservations are highly recommended if you want a table with a view.

8. Ling Ling Sushi

Elevated Sushi Restaurant Overlooking Chapultepec Park

Ling Ling Sushi is another Mexico City restaurant with a stunning view. Located on the 56th floor of the Ritz Carlton, Ling Ling faces Chapultepec Park.

While Ling Ling is more expensive than the other restaurants on this list, it has arguably the best food, with vegan options and 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 13,000+ Google Reviews. That is impressive!

It’s undoubtedly one of the best places to go in Mexico City for a special occasion, or for a no-reason fancy dinner date.

View of the Ritz Carlton (where Ling Ling is located) from Chapultepec Park

Things to Know Before You Visit Ling Ling

Be sure to make a reservation if you plan to visit during peak hours.

9. Monumento a la Revolución

Historical Monument with Observation Deck

Mexico City’s Monumento a la Revolución is not only an iconic monument, its also a great viewpoint to see the city skyline!

The monument is 220 feet high and was originally designed to be a legislative building before the Mexican Revolution.

The observatory and its view are not the only attractions at the Monument to the Revolution. The monument is also home to the tombs of several Mexican heroes, including Pancho Villa, Francisco Madero, Plutarco Elías Calles, and Lázaro Cárdenas.

Photo of Monumento a la Revolución from Unsplash

Things to Know Before You Visit Monumento a la Revolución

You’ll need to pay the $150 peso fee to visit the observation deck.

10. Museo Anahuacalli

Striking Museum Curated by Diego Rivera With A Mexico City View

Museo Anahuacalli is one of my favorite places in Mexico City. The striking building was designed by famed cubist painter Diego Rivera.

The museum features ancient artifacts from across Mexico, a small selection of paintings, and a beautiful view of Mexico City.

This is another one of the places I would definitely visit again, not fully because of the view, but because of how grandeur and interesting the building is.

Also Read: Full Guide to Diego Rivera’s Anahuacalli Museum

The scenery from the top of Diego Rivera’s Museo Anahuacalli

Things to Know Before You Visit Museo Anahuacalli

The museum is located in the vibrant Coyoacán neighborhood of Mexico City. If you have a few days in CDMX, I highly recommend dedicating a day to exploring this charming historic neighborhood. However, keep in mind that this museum is about a 20 minute drive outside of the main central Coyoacán area. Thankfully, its easy to take an Uber and the museum is 100% worth the drive.

The cost to visit the museum is $100 pesos, but entry is included in most tickets for the Frida Khalo Casa Azul. Make the most of your ticket by visiting both! If you’re like me, you’ll actually enjoy Museo Anahuacalli more than the popular Casa Azul.

The viewpoint is located on the roof of the building and can be accessed by several sets of stairs. Explore the museum floor by floor before stepping out onto the rooftop.

I went on a Coyoacan bike tour that included entrance to the Frida Khalo Casa Azul, and then after the tour ended, took an Uber to Museo Anahuacalli and used that same ticket to enter. If you want to do the same, book this bike tour (highly recommended!)

Interesting mirrors on the Museo Anahuacalli rooftop

Final Thoughts: The Best Views in Mexico City

Although I’m not a big city person, Mexico City’s vibrancy, greenery, and gorgeous skyline always calls me back for more. Looking down at the busyness of the city from above is the perfect way to get a sense of peace amid the chaos of the continent’s largest metropolis.

Planning an upcoming Mexico City trip? Be sure to check out my other Mexico City travel guides:

★ The Ultimate Mexico City Packing List
★ How to Prepare for Your First Time in Mexico City
★ Mexico City in 4 Days: The Quintessential CDMX Itinerary
★ The Ultimate Guide to Roma Norte, Mexico City
★ The Best Xochimilco and Frida Kahlo Museum Tours
★ How to Ride the Mexico City CableBus As a Tourist
★ Diego Rivera’s Anahuacalli Museum Review + Guide
★ 39 Best Mexico City Vegan Restaurants by Neighborhood
★ What to Wear in Mexico City