Highlights
- Explore Mexico's endless stream of distinct cuisines through a taco crawl
- Discover traditional Mexican restaurants and street stalls in the Centro Histórico
- Stroll the cobblestone streets of Mexico City's artistic hub, San Ángel
- See the infamous mansion where Mexico's dictator, Porfirio Diaz, once lived
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Mexico City, Dinner at Salón Tenampa | Mexico City |
| Day 2 | Guided Walk Through Centro Histórico, Street Food Tour | Mexico City |
| Day 3 | Tour of San Ángel & Coyoacán Neighborhoods | Mexico City |
| Day 4 | Ultimate Mexico City Taco Crawl | Mexico City |
| Day 5 | Depart Mexico City |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Mexico City, Dinner at Salón Tenampa
Today you'll step foot in North America's largest metropolis, Mexico City. Your driver will be ready and waiting at the airport to take you to your accommodation for the next four nights, and then—it's time to experience this vibrant city. Kick off the day with some free time to go exploring on your own. The Mexican capital has many unique neighborhoods with a flavor all their own. You may want to opt for Roma Norte, the trendy hangout with a distinct bohemian vibe and cafés galore, or glitzy Polanco and its designer fashion and skyscrapers.
Dinner has already been arranged for the evening at Salón Tenampa in Plaza Garibaldi. This is Mexico City's famous mariachi square, where the sound of melodious song and acoustic guitar floats through the air—and compliments your dining experience. The atmosphere is electric, and the traditional cuisine at Salón Tenampa, like birria tacos (braised beef tacos) and tlacoyos (stuffed corn tortillas), is mouthwatering. After your first memorable meal in the city, your driver will take you back to your hotel for the evening.
Day 2: Guided Walk Through Centro Histórico, Street Food Tour
Spend the morning getting better acquainted with Mexico City's Centro Histórico and its cuisine. Meet up with your guide, who will take you through the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Palace of Fine Arts. The Centro Histórico is centered around the sprawling Zócalo, a massive square that encompasses over 3 square miles (7.7 sq km). There's no better way to connect with a culture than through your taste buds, so along the way, you'll stop for a few bites to eat as you make your way around the city center.
Later on, you'll have the afternoon free to experience the city as you like. Outdoor lovers will enjoy strolling around Chapultepec Park and its hilltop castle, although the city's museums are equally as impressive. History buffs should make a beeline for the Museo de Antropologia and its fascinating exhibits on Mexican history or see the remnants of Aztec ruins in the heart of the Zócalo at the Templo Mayor.
Day 3: Tour of San Ángel & Coyoacán Neighborhoods
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
In a quiet area south of Mexico City's busy center, you'll find the San Ángel and Coyoacán neighborhoods. San Ángel is best known for its art scene and sprawling mansions, including Porfirio Diaz's (Mexico's ruthless dictator throughout the late 1800s) residence, but it was also the site of the ancient city of Tenanitla. Built in the center of a solidified lava flow from the nearby Xitle volcano, Tenanitla was once a thriving metropolis. You'll stroll through it all with your guide, who will point out the hidden landmarks and famous architecture that you might otherwise miss.
Cap off your time south of the center in the equally beautiful and historic Coyoacán neighborhood. This is where Frida Kahlo's home, Casa Azul, resides, along with other colorful buildings and residences. Walk with your guide around the main square. Coyoacán means "place of coyotes" in Nahutal (Mexico's largest Indigenous language), which is represented in the central coyote fountain surrounded by local food vendors. You'll also visit the Parroquia San Juan Bautista and its gilded altar, built atop an Aztec school for the nobility, and have time to grab warm churros under Plaza Coyoacán's string lights.
Day 4: Ultimate Mexico City Taco Crawl
It wouldn't be a trip to Mexico without tasting as many tacos as possible. As the capital of the country, Mexico's many culinary traditions collide in Mexico City and you'll get a taste of them all on today's ultimate taco crawl. From the Yucatán Peninsula's cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) to Puebla's al pastor (a Lebanese and Mexican fusion topped with pineapple), you'll get the full rundown today with your local guide in the center of the city.
But don't let your gastronomic adventures through one of the best food cities in the world end there. Stick to the Centro Historicó to try out restaurants and cafés, like the iconic Pastelería Ideal and its mountains of pastries, or get gussied up and make reservations for Azul's stunning courtyard of hanging lanterns and twisted trees—with a full menu of cuisine from across the country. If you're an adventurous eater, you could also opt for trying the traditional Aztec tipple of choice, pulque, a milky, alcoholic beverage often flavored with fruit.
Day 5: Depart Mexico City
More Great Mexico Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Mexico? Check out these other Mexico itineraries, explore different ways to spend five days in Mexico City, or discover the best time to visit Mexico.
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