1 Week in Mexico City - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Cultural Treasures of Mexico City

Mexico City is overflowing with culture, character, tantalizing cuisine, and beautiful art, and this ultimate weeklong tour introduces you to the very best of it. Perfect for first-time visitors eager to uncover historical marvels and secret spots, you'll visit the Museo del Templo Mayor, explore the ancient ruins of Teotihuacán, wander Chapultepec Castle, and step into the world of Casa Azul. Paired with memorable dining experiences and guided explorations of colorful neighborhoods, you'll depart with a deep appreciation for Mexico City's unique charm.

Welcome to Mexico City! Your adventure starts with a self-guided tour, meandering through San Ángel's quaint cobbled streets and the expansive beauty of Chapultepec Park. Then, as night falls, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Los Danzantes. More delightful bites are in store the following afternoon, with a half-day excursion through the Centro Histórico of Mexico City on the agenda, followed by an insightful visit to the Museo del Templo Mayor. The next day, delve deeper into the city's rich history through visits to a sacred basilica and the 2,000-year-old ruins of Teotihuacán.

Upon waking up to the second half of your week in Mexico City, join an expert guide in exploring the Floating Garden of Xochimilco. Afterward, spend the evening meandering through the bohemian neighborhood of Coyoacán and its lovely Jardín Hidalgo. The next day features more important historic sites, including the National Museum of Anthropology, dedicated to Indigenous heritage, and the opulent Chapultepec Castle. Then, squeeze in visits to Museo Diego Rivera Anahuacalli and Casa Azul, both overflowing with fascinating artworks, before prepping for your onward flight. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Ultimate Foodie Adventure in Mexico City

Savor the fresh flavors of Mexico's world-renowned cuisine at authentic eateries, bustling markets, and chic eateries with this flavorful culinary experience. A perfect fit for foodies eager to dive into the culinary culture of Mexico, you'll sample best-in-your-life tacos, attend a class at a traditional culinary school, and snack your way through Mercado de San Juan. Between bites, immerse yourself in the cultural wonders of Mexico with a thrilling lucha libre match, a trip to the ancient ruins of Teotihuacán, and a scenic cruise along the colorful canals of Xochimilco.

Get ready to savor every bite as your journey in Mexico City begins with a guided food tour through the lovely Narvarte neighborhood. The following day, drift through the enchanting Floating Gardens of Xochimilco on a traditional canal boat, discovering the agricultural system that has sustained the area for centuries. That evening, take your time exploring the charming craft shops of Jardín Hidalgo before indulging in a delightful dinner at the beloved Los Danzantes. Day 3 promises a feast for the senses as you sample an array of meats, fish, cheeses, and exotic fruits at the renowned Mercado de San Juan.

While you're well familiar with the flavors of Mexico City by now, there are still plenty more dishes to discover, and the next day is proof of this as you hop between the city's best taquerías and sip your way through artisanal mezcal. That evening, experience a different side of Mexican culture during a dramatic lucha libre show at Aréna Mexico. Then, unleash your inner chef at Aura Cocina Mexicana, learning the secrets of traditional Mexican dishes. Finally, spend an afternoon wandering through the ancient ruins of Teotihuacán, known as "The City of the Gods," before preparing for your farewell. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Authentic Experiences & Outdoor Adventures in Mexico City

Experience the best of Mexico City on this immersive adventure that blends urban exploration with the thrill of nearby natural and historical wonders. Tailored for those who thrive on active pursuits, you'll spend full days delving into the ancient ruins of Teotihuacán and hiking through the stunning Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl National Park. When you're not out exploring, soak up Mexico City's fascinating culture with insightful walking and food tours and a tranquil boat ride along the charming canals of Xochimilco.

Kick off your Mexico City adventure with a fabulous dinner at Tezontle, in which chefs will prepare dishes right in front of you. With taste buds teased and ready for more, join a local guide the following morning to discover local favorite restaurants in the district of Roma. Then, attend a traditional dance show at the Guadalajara de Noche Theater before rounding off your day with a taquerías tour. Next on your itinerary is a trip to Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl National Park, where a guide will lead the way along forest, valley, and mountain trails on one of the park's active volcanoes. 

Begin Day 4 by teaming up with another expert to discover Coyoacán, a bohemian district known for its serene gardens and lively plazas. Later, experience the day-to-day happenings in the Floating Garden of Xochimilco while onboard a traditional canal boat. The cultural immersion continues the next day with a visit to Casa Azul, home to iconic Frida Kahlo's masterpieces, followed by an adrenaline-pumping lucha libre experience at Aréna Mexico. Then, on your final full day, venture to the famous ruins of Teotihuacán and take in this mesmerizing ancient Mesoamerican city by hot-air balloon, bike, and on foot. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Cuisine & Culture of Mexico City & Puebla

Add a second destination into the mix with this Mexico City and Puebla itinerary, where authentic cuisine and local traditions await at every turn. Tailored for those who crave active exploration, you’ll be guided through the energetic Mercado de San Juan, the UNESCO-listed Centro Histórico, and the artistic haven of Coyoacán before cycling through the ancient ruins of Teotihuacán. Finish your trip in Puebla, soaking in the beauty of its 17th-century churches, storied library, and mouthwatering regional dishes.

After checking into your hotel, a guide will collect you for a four-hour visit to the Mercado de San Juan. Sample exotic meats and watch chefs passionately pick out their produce before spending the rest of the afternoon exploring at your leisure. The following day includes two fascinating walking tours, one through the Centro Histórico and the other in the bohemian Coyoacán neighborhood, with a delightful cooking class at Casa Malinche Coffee Bar in between. Then, venture farther afield to see the ancient canals of Xochimilco and sample mouthwatering tacos in the Narvarte neighborhood.

Continue your Mexico City stay with a visit to Casa Azul, where the colorful world of Frida Kahlo comes alive, and feel the adrenaline of a wrestling match at Aréna Mexico. Next, get ready for a two-night stay in the enchanting colonial city of Puebla. Along the way, spend the afternoon cycling through the ancient city of Teotihuacán, marveling at the towering Pyramid of the Sun and the mystical Temple of Quetzalcoatl. End your journey by immersing yourself in Puebla's vibrant culture and cuisine as a local guide leads you to lively handicrafts markets and introduces you to local culinary specialties. Learn more

More Great 1-Week Mexico Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Mexico? Check out these other one-week Mexico itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.