Mexico City in 4 Days: The Quintessential CDMX Itinerary

With surprises around every corner, you won’t get bored exploring Mexico City in 4 days. This incredible capital city is full of colorful colonial neighborhoods, striking ancient ruins, vibrant green parks, and an endless array of delicious food.

While you could easily spend months exploring Mexico City, four days is the perfect amount of time to see the city’s top highlights. Whether you’re in Mexico City for a long weekend, or CDMX is just one stop on a longer Mexico trip, this 4 day Mexico City itinerary will give you a little sense of what its like to be a chilango (Mexico City local).

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4 Day Mexico City Itinerary

The streets of Centro Historico

Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Day 1: Centro Histórico

Day one of this 4 day Mexico City itinerary is focused on exploring Centro Historico, also referred to as the Historic Center of Mexico City or downtown Mexico City.

After grabbing a hearty breakfast nearby your hotel, start your Centro Historico adventure outside Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts). This is one of the city’s most iconic buildings, and it’s the perfect starting point for a day in Centro Historico.

Explore Palacio de Bellas Artes and Nearby Attractions

Within a block or two of Palacio de Bellas Artes, you’ll find a handful attractions. You could easily spend a week exploring the art museums, parks, viewpoints, and other hidden gems in this area.

To ensure you’re able to make it to all the best spots in Mexico City in 4 days, I recommend spending a few hours in this area. Choose two to three of the most interesting attractions listed below and then head on to the next area.

Option 1: Finca Don Porfirio — Popular

Located on the 8th floor of the Sears building, directly across from the Palacio de Bellas Artes, this cafe has the best view of eye-catching Palacio de Bellas Artes.

The cafe opens each day at 11am and always has a long line. I recommend showing up right at 11am when the Sears doors open so you can choose the best spot to sip a drink while taking in the view.

Cost to visit: Purchase of coffee, tea, or snack.

Option 2: Mirador Torre Latino — My Recommendation

On my most recent trip to CDMX, I was on the search for the best views in the city. I visited Mirador Torre Latino at Torre Latinoamericana and when I saw the view at the open-air 44th floor, I was shocked that I’d never been there before.

The Mexico City skyline extends to the horizon in every direction, and you get a sense of tranquility in the midst of the chaos as you watch life go on below you.

Cost to visit: $180 pesos for adult access to the 44th floor terrace.

Palacio de Bellas Artes from Torre Latino, a favorite spot on this Mexico City itinerary

Option 3: Casa de los Azulejos (The House of Tiles)

Situated along the pedestrian-only street, Av Francisco I. Madero, the House of Tiles is one of the most picturesque buildings in Centro Historico. Adorned with blue, white, and yellow tiles, the stunning facade reminds me of the Porto, Portugal.

You can either walk by Casa de los Azulejos on your way to the Zocalo or take time to explore the inside of the beautiful building. You can also dine at charming restaurant, though it isn’t known to have the best food.

Option 4: Palacio Postal — Hidden Gem

Who would have thought that a post office could be so beautiful! This fully functioning post office is an architectural wonder, and its free to visit.

The post office was commissioned by Mexican president Porfirio Díaz and built in the early 1900s by the same architect behind the famous Palacio de Bellas Artes, Adamo Boari.

Option 5: Museo Nacional De Arte (MUNAL or National Museum of Art in English)

Out of the city’s dozens of art museums, the MUNAL is arguably the most important. The museum’s extensive art collection features pieces from artists who lived throughout Mexico’s history, and before the nation was founded.

Entry fee: $85 pesos per adult, plus $5 peso photography fee

Option 6: Barrio Chino (Mexico City Chinatown)

One block from Palacio de Bellas Artes you’ll find Mexico City’s Barrio Chino. This small two-block Chinatown is a great place to grab lunch if you’re craving Asian food.

Option 7: Museo Mural Diego Rivera

Museo Mural Diego Rivera features one of Diego Rivera’s most important murals, Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda Central).

The mural is the only thing to see in this museum, but many visitors still prioritize stopping by to see Rivera’s most famous work.

Admission fee: $40 pesos

Option 8: Alameda Central

Alameda Central is Mexico City’s oldest part and its located right beside Palacio de Bellas Artes.

With French-inspired fountains, vibrant greenery, and several historical monuments, this park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

Walk to the Zócalo

After exploring the area around Palacio de Bellas Artes, its time to head to Mexico City’s main square, the Zócalo.

Stroll down Av Francisco I. Madero, a wide pedestrian-only street that connects Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Zócalo. The 1 kilometer walk takes about 12 minutes.

The Zócalo is one of the largest city squares in the world and used to be the central square of the Aztec empire.

Check out the Metropolitan Cathedral

Catedral Metropolitana de la Ciudad de México, Mexico City’s Metropolitan Cathedral, is a striking building on the edge of the Zocaló.

While most visitors just take a look at the cathedral from the outside, you can go inside.

Eat and Drink at a Rooftop Bar

My favorite thing to do near the Zócalo is visit Terraza Catedral, a rooftop bar overlooking the Metropolitan Cathedral.

If you’ve read my article on the best viewpoints and rooftop bars in Mexico City, you know this spot is one of the best.

If you haven’t had lunch yet, you can get something tasty here. And if you’ve already eaten, don’t miss this spot. You can grab a delicious drink, like their wonderful mocktail mojito and catch your breath before more exploring.

See Templo Mayor

Just steps away from the Metropolitan Cathedral you’ll find ruins of the city’s most important pre-hispanic temple.

Entry into the Templo Mayor Museum costs $90 pesos per person, though you can see most of the ruins without entering the museum.

Optional: Centro Historico Guided Tour

Simplify your day in Centro Historico by booking a guided tour. This highly-rated private walking tour of Mexico City’s historic center includes guided visits at Templo Mayor Museum, the National palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Zocalo, the House of Tiles, and Palacio de Bellas Artes.

Dinner in Condesa or Roma

After a packed day of exploration in Centro Historico, head back to your hotel in Roma or Condesa.

Grab dinner, ideally tacos, and if you have energy, explore these colorful neighborhoods as they come to life after dark.

My recommendation for dinner is Páramo, an elevated spot with delicious Mexican cuisine, killer cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere. Rated as one of the top 25 restaurants in Mexico City by Time Out, don’t miss this spot!

Also Read: What to Wear in Mexico City for Women and Men

Day 2: Teotihuacan

For day two on this Mexico City 4 day itinerary we’re heading to the ancient city of Teotihuacan.

Located about 35 miles northeast of central Mexico City, the archeological site at San Juan de Teotihuacan is one of the most significant and well-preserved in all of Mexico.

Unlike the rubbled Aztec ruins at Templo Mayor in Centro Historico, Teotihuacan’s striking pyramids and temples stand tall (some have been rebuilt).

The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting the famous Sun Temple, Moon Temple, and Avenue of the Dead.

You’ll need at least half a day to visit Teotihuacan, and in the late afternoon you’ll get some free time to either go back to Centro Historico or stroll through Roma and Condesa.

Teotihuacan Day Trip Tips

Getting to Teotihuacan without a tour is tricky. If you don’t want to take a tour, you’ll need to get a rental car. Keep in mind that with Mexico City’s traffic it can take up to two hours to reach the archeological site from Mexico City (don’t trust Google Maps!)

With this in mind, I highly recommend visiting Teotihuacan with a guided tour that includes roundtrip transport.

You can two main options for Teotihuacan tours: regular tours of the archeological site, and sunrise hot air balloon tours over Teotihuacan. The latter is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I highly recommend!

Optional: Lunch in a Cave at La Gruta

Besides touring the archaeological site, one of the most popular things to do at Teotihuacan is dine at La Gruta.

Decorated with twinkle lights, white tablecloths, and colorful chairs, this cave restaurant is undeniably romantic. The menu mixes modern Mexican cuisine and pre-Hispanic flavors. If you plan to visit, expect to wait for a table as its such a popular spot.

For the best experience, book this Teotihuacan tour, which includes lunch at La Gruta (with no wait!)

Free Afternoon in Roma, Condesa, or Centro Historico

Back in Mexico City, you enjoy a free afternoon in your favorite neighborhood. If there were some things you didn’t get to see in Centro Historico, head over there.

Otherwise, I recommend exploring Roma and Condesa since there isn’t any time in this 4 days Mexico City itinerary dedicated to these charming neighborhood.

With a free afternoon in Roma and Condesa, this is what I’d do:

Try your share of street tacos

No trip to Mexico City is complete with a belly full of street tacos. Every neighborhood—Condesa and Roma included—is teeming with taco carts and other street food vendors.

Choose your taco vendor carefully to avoid food poisoning. The most reliable vendors tend to have longer lines and high rating online.

If you’re vegan like me, you will find plenty of vegan taco spots in Roma and Condesa, including the famous Por Siempre Vegana 2, Gracias Madre Taquería Vegana, and Gatora.

I’ve tried them all and my personal favorite is Paxil, a plant-based seafood taco truck next to the beautiful Plaza Río de Janeiro. Try their Paxil taco with deep fried avocado—I’m starting to crave it as I write this!

Also Read: 39 Best Mexico City Vegan Restaurants by Neighborhood

One of so many taco stands in Mexico City

Paxil’s tacos are BIG!

Grab some pizza to go at DoppioZero

Not in the mood for tacos? No judgement here! Thankfully, Mexico City has some incredible international cuisine, including some of the best pizza I’ve had outside of Italy.

DoppioZero’s selection of fresh to-go slices make a perfect cheap, quick, and delicious afternoon snack to fuel you up for a few more hours of adventure. Lucky for vegans like me, DoppioZero always has vegan slices!

Indulge in Mexico City’s best churros

With iconic blue and white tiling and delicious crunchy and sweet churros, Churreria el Moro is the best place to get tacos in Mexico City.

Although there are several locations across the city, my favorite is located on the edge of Parque Mexico in La Condesa.

No matter how many times I visit Mexico City, I never get tired of indulging in churros at beautiful Parque Mexico. And for those wondering yes, Churreria el Moro’s churros are vegan!

Foro Lindbergh at Parque Mexico — this area fills up with dancing groups, dogs, and families every evening

People watch (and dog watch) at Parque Mexico

With warm churros in hand, walk across the street to Parque Mexico, which is a community hub and arguably the most beautiful park in Mexico City.

The park is a wonderful place to visit anytime of the day, but after about 6pm each day, the Foro Lindbergh area behind the Fuente de los Cántaros comes to life with activity.

Sit along the forum and eat your churros while watching dancing groups practice, dogs fetch balls, boys play soccer, and couples practice rollerskating all in one small area.

Honestly, if I had to choose one thing to do in Mexico City, it would be this, as simple as it is.

Try pulque at Pulqueria los Insurgentes

Pulque is a pre-hispanic fermented alcoholic beverage that you must try if you have time during your four days in Mexico City!

Pulque used to be the drink of Mexico, consumed daily by the majority of the population. Although other beverages like Coca-Cola and beer have replaced pulque, plenty of pulquerias still exist throughout the country.

One of the best places to drink pulque in Mexico City is Pulqueria los Insurgentes, which is located near the Fuente de Cibeles in Roma Norte.

Day 3: Chapultepec & Museum of Anthropology

Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Park) is Mexico City’s central park. The massive 1700-acre park is home to nine museums, two lakes, Latin America’s only true castle, and so many other hidden gems.

Before we go any further, its important to note that the entire park is closed on Mondays, including the museums. With this in mind, consider adjusting your itinerary if needed.

There are so many things to do at Chapultepec Park. My top two recommendations are the National Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Castle. And course, you need to reserve some time to stroll through the massive park.

Brunch

Fuel up with some quality brunch before heading over to Chapultepec Park. Some of the popular brunch spots in Mexico City include Restaurante Rosetta, Madre Cafe, and Lardo.

My go-to brunch spots include Forever and Plantasia, which are both amazing plant-based restaurants in Roma Norte.

Chapultepec Castle

Once you arrive at Chapultepec, head straight to Castillo de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Castle).

Situated on the top of Chapultepec Hill, this gorgeous 17th century castle is the only real castle in North America because its the only palace in our corner of the world that was inhabited by royalty.

It’s important to note that most of signage in the castle is only in Spanish, making it difficult to navigate if you don’t understand Spanish. Even still, the castle is worth visiting for its striking architecture, vast art collection, incredible views, and historical significance.

Entry fee: $85 pesos per person

My husband and I at the CDMX sign in Chapultepec Park

Lunch

Before adventuring on to the next museum, take some time to explore the park and grab a bite to eat.

There are lots of street vendors in the park, but if you want a proper meal, you’ll have to leave the park. For vegans there is a good vegan taco spot right outside the park called Viko Taqueria Vegan. It’s located underground and can be a bit difficult to find, but if you look for the signs, you’ll figure it out.

National Museum of Anthropology

The Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Museum of Anthropology) is one of the best museums in Mexico City. It is home to one of the largest collections of pre-hispanic Mexican artifacts in the world and folks who are interested in indigenous history can easily spend hours sifting through each exhibit.

Combined with what you learned and saw at Templo Mayor and Teotihuacan, you’ll deepen your understanding of Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and history. You’ll get the chance to see the famous Aztec sunstone in person, along with hundreds of thousands of other artifacts from across Mexico.

I recommend reserving at least two hours for this museum. If you’re like me, you’ll end up wanting to come back again and again every time you visit Mexico City!

Entry fee: $90 pesos per person

Optional Dinner With a View: Ling Ling Sushi

To round off your day at Chapultepec Park, you can head to Ling Ling, a luxurious sushi restaurant on the 56th floor of the Ritz Carlton, overlooking Chapultepec.

You will want to plan ahead as reservations are highly recommended for Ling Ling, and you may want to wear something nice.

Alternative: Guided Tour

While you can easily experience the highlights of Chapultepec on your own, this highly-rated private tour will make your day seamless. Instead of trying to Google Translate each plaque in Chapultepec Castle as you go, your personal bilingual guide will make the site’s history come alive with engaging stories and facts. You also get to spend two hours at the Anthropology Museum and stop at several other important sites in the park. Check prices and booking information.

The colorful streets of Coyoacán in southern Mexico City

Day 4: Xochimilco, Frida Kahlo Museum, and Coyoacán

For our last day in Mexico City, we’re heading south of the historic city center to the bright and colorful neighborhoods of Coyoacán and Xochimilco.

Once the center of all activity in Mexico City, Coyoacán is most famous for the Frida Kahlo Museum, which is also called La Casa Azul or the Blue House. In addition, this stunning neighborhood is full of hidden gems, including beautiful gardens and parks, gorgeous colonial architecture, and some of the city’s oldest churches.

Just a few miles south of Coyoacán, Xochimilco is another historic neighborhood. This neighborhood is home to the breathtaking floating gardens of Xochimilco and endless gorgeous canals. The canals and gardens are best explored via trajinera, a colorful gondola-like boat.

As you glide through this magical area, you’ll pass by floating mariachi bands and food vendors offering drinks and snacks. It’s one of the most unique experiences in Mexico City and makes for a perfect end to your 4 day Mexico City trip.

The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco—do not miss this place!

Vintage VW Bug on the side of the road in colorful Coyoacán

How to Spend a Day in Coyoacán and Xochimilco

To see all the highlights of Coyoacán and Xochimilco, including the Frida Kahlo Museum, the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco, and several hidden gems, I highly recommend booking this guided tour.

With Frida Kahlo tickets selling out well in advance, and scammers tricking tourists in Xochimilco daily, its just easier to go with a local guide. Plus, your transportation is included and you get to learn about the places you’re seeing from an expert!

I have a full article dedicated to the best Frida Kahlo and Xochimilco tours if you want to compare your options. If you read the article, you know that this private tour is my top recommendation:

Best Coyoacan & Xochimilco Day Trip (Private Tour)

★★★★★ 5/5 stars out of 163+ reviews

This guided tour includes two full hours on a private trajinera (boat) through the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco and a two hour walking tour of Coyoacán.

It also includes entry to the Frida Kahlo Museum, regardless of when you book. This is a huge perk since tickets sell out months in advance!

Here is a look at one of the hundreds of 5 star reviews:

“Armando was a highly knowledgeable and fun tour guide for the day. We enjoyed all the history and background he provided about Xochimilco, Coyoacan, and la Casa Azul. All arrangements went smoothly — all we had to do was relax and soak it all in. We’d recommend this tour to anyone.”

REVIEW FROM SUSAN ON BOOKING.COM

Optional: Visit the Anahuacalli Museum

Museo Anahuacalli is one of my favorite museums in Mexico City, though its unconventional in many ways.

Modeled after a pre-hispanic temple, the museum was envisioned by the famous Mexican painter (who was also Frida Kahlo’s husband), Diego Rivera.

It houses Rivera’s collection of pre-hispanic artwork and serves a bridge between ancient art and modern art.

Tickets to the Frida Kahlo Museum also include entry to the Anahuacalli Museum, so you can stop by the museum after your Frida Kahlo tour for free.

Read my full guide to Diego Rivera’s Anahuacalli Museum

A peek at the Anahuacalli Museum in Coyoacan

Other Things to do in Mexico City

Although this Mexico City itinerary is packed full with all the most essential CDMX experiences, you will end up with some free time. If you want to add in more activities, swap out certain experiences, or add on a few extra days, here are some other amazing things to do in Mexico City:

Ride the longest cable car in the world: This is one of the most underrated things you can do in Mexico City! Read my full guide about riding Mexico City’s incredible CableBus as a tourist.

Attend an event at Huerto Roma Verde: This innovative community garden and event space in Roma Sur is a hidden gem! Check out their website to see if they are hosting any events during your visit.

Take a traditional cooking class: There is no better place to learn how to make authentic Mexican food! There are tons of cooking classes in CDMX, but this one is one of the best.

Ride paddle boats at Chapultepec Park: You can easily rent paddle boat at Chapultepec and enjoy a peaceful paddle through the lake.

Visit the home of mariachi, Plaza Garibaldi: Just north of Centro Historico, this plaza is the place to go for mariachi music. Check out this tour, which includes a visit to the plaza and a lucha libre show.

See Biblioteca Vasconcelos: One of the most famous libraries in the world, Biblioteca Vasconcelos is an architectural wonder with floating bookshelves that you have to see!

Go on a local food tour: Foodies love this Centro Historico food tour and this Roma food tour (vegan-friendly!)

Take a day trip to the Las Grutas Tolantongo Hot Springs: Book this day trip to see one of the most Instagrammable places in Mexico.

See Lucha Libre at Arena México: Men in tights and masks? See it a Arena Mexico! Be sure to go with a tour guide, though, as the arena is located in one of the more dodgy neighborhoods of Mexico City.

The Zocalo, an unmissable spot on any Mexico City itinerary

Mexico City in 4 Days Travel Guide

After visiting Mexico City a handful of times, here are my top travel tips and answers to FAQs:

Best time to visit Mexico City

Mexico City is beautiful all year round, but my favorite time to visit is at the end of March when the beautiful purple Jacarandá are in bloom! March through May also has the best weather, as its right before the rainy season, which lasts between June and September each year.

The rainy season is a decent time to visit Mexico City. Most days are hot and sunny and then the rain hits in the late afternoon for a few hours. If a little rain doesn’t bother you, the rainy season is a great time to visit with lower prices and less tourists.

October and November are also dry months with nice weather. Mexico City gets busy for Day of the Dead at the end of October, but the famous holiday is also a reason to visit.

How many days do you need in Mexico City?

Four days in Mexico City is enough to see the highlights, but you will need a week if you plan to take several day trips and explore beyond the main attractions.

Getting around Mexico City

There are several ways to get around Mexico City, including:

Walking: Walking is my favorite way to explore most neighborhoods.

Taxi, Uber, and DiDi: Uber works in Mexico City, and you can find even better deals on DiDi, another rideshare app that is common in Mexico. There are local taxis as well, though I prefer Uber or DiDi.

Metro and public transport: Mexico City has an incredible public transportation system. You can Metro and bus routes on Google Maps to easily travel between neighborhoods.

Rental car: Renting a car in Mexico City gives you the most freedom to explore the city and beyond. Check out DiscoverCars to compare local car rentals.

Guided tour: One reason I love booking tours and day trips on Viator is that most of them include roundtrip transportation!

Staying safe in Mexico City

Mexico City is safer than most people realize. However, its important to take the same precautions you would in any other city. For example, avoid flashy jewelry and keep your valuables in sight.

Mexico City weather and packing list

By the way, Mexico City is situated at 7350 feet (2240 meters) above sea level. This means that Mexico City’s weather is very different from Mexican beach towns.

Be sue to check out my Mexico City packing list so you don’t miss anything important!

Best areas to stay in Mexico City

If you’re trying to experience the best of Mexico City in 4 days, be sure to book your hotel strategically. I recommend staying in Roma or Condesa. These two neighborhoods are centrally located, safe, and fun, so you can make the most of your trip by staying here. A few Mexico City hotels I recommend include:

Casa Mannach: My top choice. Situated on the edge of Mexico City’s most beautiful park, this boutique hotel is a vibrant oasis centrally located near Condesa’s best restaurants, bars, and cafes.

La Valise Mexico City: A perfect blend of luxury and quirk, La Valise is one of the highest-rated hotels in Mexico City. Each of the four rooms are unique, and they sell out quickly, so book now!

NaNa Vida CDMX: A highly-rated but budget-friendly boutique hotel located in the heart of Mexico City’s Roma Norte neighborhood.

Cute buildings surrounding Parque Mexico in Condesa

Mexico City in 4 Days: Final Thoughts

I hope this travel guide helped you figure out what to do in Mexico City in 4 days! As you can see, there is a lot to do in this thriving capital city. Whatever you do, be sure to respect locals, tip generously, and have fun!