Table Of Contents

1. #1 Start with a Walk Around La Condesa
2. #2 Museo de Arte Popular
3. #3 Xochimilco
4. #4 Bosque de Chapultepec
5. #5 Lucha Libre
6. #6 Mercado Artesanías Ciudadela
7. #7 Casa Azul Frida Kahlo
8. #8 San Angel Arts Market
9. #9 Street Food
10. #10 Sundays on Paseo de Reforma

#1 Start with a Walk Around La Condesa

The first thing I recommend to any first-time traveller to Mexico City is to take a walk. This helps not only acclimatize you to the altitude, but also your neighbourhood. And my #1 recommendation for the best streets to comfortably and safely wander is in La Condesa. It can be a casual stroll or an in-depth guided tour. Start the day off right by meeting the friendly locals, sampling the food, and soaking up the exemplary historic architecture. And incredible green spaces. La Condesa has become somewhat of a tourist hot spot over the years. But as such, it’s really really accessible to foreigners. While still maintaining that amazing Mexico City vibe that absolutely permeates the entire city.

#2 Museo de Arte Popular

While many guides will put the Templo Mayor and Anthrolopgoy museum in their top museum spots, for me, it has got to be the Museo de Arte Popular. The Museo de Arte Popular (Museum of Popular Art) is a cultural treasure of great importance to the Mexican people. It showcases Mexico’s vibrant folk art traditions and celebrates its people’s creativity and ingenuity.

The museum holds an extensive collection of handmade crafts and folk art. This includes textiles, pottery, glassware, wood carvings, and more, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Mexico. It is a place to admire the beauty and skill of these works and serves as a center for preserving and promoting traditional Mexican arts and crafts. It is a place where visitor can come together to appreciate the unique cultural richness of Mexico. And learn about its history and traditions. 

While I also recommend the Templo Mayor and the Anthropology Museum, the vibrancy of this museum always excites me. These are objects made by everyday people that have lasted generations. And hold within them such deep symbolic value. Even in arts and crafts, you’ll learn all about the Aztec myths and gods the ancient Mexican people worshipped. And see how this history still finds its way into symbolism even today.

#3 Xochimilco

Xochimilco is a neighbourhood in Mexico City home to a system of canals and floating gardens known as the Xochimilco canals. This ancient waterway was once used for agriculture and transportation. But today serves as a popular tourist attraction and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Locals and tourists alike gather near the embarcaderos and rent these gorgeous, brightly coloured Trajineras, or small boats. Thes boats are ferried up and down the river. The atmosphere on the canals, even on a quiet afternoon, is infectious. Laughter and the sound of mariachi bands float across the water.

The canals offer a unique perspective into the way of life in Mexico in the past. These innovative chinampas were created by the Aztecs to grow crops in the middle of a lake. While on your journey, you can buy food and drinks from local street food vendors cooking up a storm in their own floating kitchens. There is also live music and craft merchants all along the river. Although it’s about a 45 minutes journey to get here, it is well worth the effort.

#4 Bosque de Chapultepec

There is no better place to spend a lively weekend with the locals than at the Bosque de Chapultepec or Chapultepec Park. The Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Forest) is one of the largest city parks in the world. Often referred to as the “lungs of Mexico City.” The park spans over 1,700 acres and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna.

The Bosque de Chapultepec also has a rich cultural history, as it was once a royal retreat for Aztec emperors. And later served as the official residence of Mexican presidents. The Bosque de Chapultepec symbolizes the city’s past and present. And to me, this place provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City. It is a place where people can connect with nature, learn about Mexican culture and history, and enjoy various recreational activities.

It’s also home to several museums, including the National Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Modern Art, and the National History Museum. But I love just coming here and exploring. Take a swan boat out on the lake, eat some street snacks, and watch the locals enjoy their city.

#5 Lucha Libre

Watching Lucha Libre, Mexico’s colourful and dynamic form of professional wrestling is a cultural experience that is not to be missed in Mexico City. Lucha Libre is a deeply ingrained part of Mexican popular culture. And has been a part of the country’s entertainment scene for over 80 years. The high-flying, acrobatic moves, elaborate costumes, and larger-than-life personalities of the luchadors (wrestlers) make for a unique and exciting spectacle. One that you have to see for yourself.

Attending a Lucha Libre match in Mexico City is an opportunity to immerse oneself in Mexican culture’s vibrant and energetic spirit. We were hesitant at first about going. Not knowing if we would understand what was happening, but we were FANS immediately after the show’s start! Joining in on the chants and screaming “boos” at the villains of the match.

I remember after our first match feeling, my face was sore from smiling and singing and screaming. It was a blast; we’ve seen a match every time we’ve been back in the city. It’s part of our tradition, and it should be one of yours too. You can join a tour group if you feel more comfortable going as a group or buy the tickets from the Arena Mexoc website.

#6 Mercado Artesanías Ciudadela

There is nowhere I’m perhaps more excited to go to every time I’m in Mexico City than the Mercado Artesanías Ciudadad. This sprawling arts market is filled with hundreds of stalls selling an array of handmade goods, including textiles, pottery, jewelry, glassware, and more. Each stall reflects Mexico’s diverse cultural heritage, with artisans coming from around the country to sell their wares.

Shopping at the market is not only an opportunity to purchase unique and beautiful handmade goods but also a way to support the local artisans and their families. The prices here are extremely fair, so there is no need to haggle. But often, if you buy more than a few things, the owner will give you a discount. I find just wandering the aisle and filling my eyes with all the incredible creations a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

#7 Casa Azul Frida Kahlo

Casa Azul Frida Kahlo, also known as the Blue House, was the birthplace and lifelong home of the renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The house sits in one of my favourite Mexico City neighbourhoods, Coyoacan. Today the house has been restored to reflect what it would have looked like when Frida lived in it with her husband, Diego Rivera.

The bright blue house vividly represents Frida’s artistic vision. It is filled with Frida’s personal belongings, including her paintings, collectables and photographs. But most precious are the iconic traditional Mexican dresses that created Frida’s look. and made her a fashion icon.

Visiting Casa Azul is a journey into Frida’s world, providing a glimpse into her art, politics, and personal life. The museum is a cultural treasure that offers a window into Mexico’s past and the history of one of its most famous artists.

#8 San Angel Arts Market

The San Angel Art Market in Mexico City is the best time to make your way out to the San Angel hillside neighbourhood. While San Angel is still one of the most vibrant yet peaceful districts throughout the week in Mexico City, on Saturdays, the art markets set the squares alight. Artisans from all over the city arrive to set up their goods at dawn. Showcasing all different art forms, from paintings to sculptures and handmade items. Best of all, the art market is for more than just tourists. But also for the locals, the pieces feel really reflective of trendy Mexican styles. Furthermore, the market provides a platform for up-and-coming artists to showcase their work and gain exposure.

A market is also a place for the community to gather and engage with the local arts scene. There is often live music performances and demonstrations by artists taking place regularly. Inside the El Bazar Sábado building on the north side of the Plaza San Jacinto you’ll find a lively food court. Here, locals and tourists all come together to eat the day away. A relaxing spot to take a break from exploring the beautiful artworks outside.

#9 Street Food

Mexico City is (in my humble opinion) the best foodie location in the world. From Michelin Star fine dining to unpretentious family-run fondas serving home-style, traditional Mexican cuisine, there is truly something for everyone. But street food is where Mexico City really shines. And street food is an integral part of the city’s culture, reflecting the country’s rich culinary heritage and diverse population. Plus, at the low price points, it’s an accessible option for almost every budget.

There is something so exciting about spotting your favourite tamales vendor coming down the road on his bike, announcing his breakfast items for sale on his portable speaker. Street food in Mexico City is incredibly diverse. From traditional Mexican dishes like tacos al pastor, elote, tortas and huaraches, there is truly something for every diet. Even vegans can find special vegan food stalls around the city. And if you’re too timid to go for a full-on meal, there are always the snack and dessert vendors to dip your toe in the waters for freshly made Mexican Street food! 

#10 Sundays on Paseo de Reforma

The Paseo de la Reforma in Mexico City is more than just a roadway; it is a street filled with history and symbolism. The long, wide avenue was originally built in the 19th century to connect the city center to Chapultepec Park. The Paseo de la Reforma has since evolved into a cultural hub with iconic monuments and fantastical public spaces. But on most days, you miss many of these iconic spots since the road is packed with cars rushing about to get from one end of the city to another. But not on Sundays…

Sundays on the Paseo de Reforma feature car-free streets. The busy thoroughfare is closed to traffic, and the roadway is open only to bikes, scooters, runners and pedestrians. The once loud street, thick with car exhaust, is now filled with children playing and people chatting as they cruise along the path on their bikes. The sidewalks are replete with street food vendors and craftspeople selling their wares. It feels like a giant street party. But luckily, it happens every week, so you can almost always take part in your visit. There are many places to rent a bike or a scooter to make traversing the long roadway a breeze. And make sure to make frequent stopes along the way to take in the monuments and snacks you’ll spot along the way.

There are many more amazing things to see and do in Mexico City, but this is a great list to get you started. I feel like with this list, so many parts of what makes Mexico City such an incredible place to visit are truly highlighted. Perhaps these sights will pique your interest and start you off on the right food while planning your first trip to Mexico City.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post What are the Best Must-see Attractions in Mexico City? first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

All along the way, there are so many opportunities for incredible Instagram shots since Mexico City is truly one of the most colourful cities in the entire world. Because let’s face it, we all know those adorable IG snaps are an all-important part of the trip. Steal this itinerary to share with your girlfriends to convince them why Mexico City needs to be at the top of your list of places to go for the Ultimate Bachelorette Trip!

Mexico City Bachelorette Itinerary

1. Why Go to Mexico City?
2. Where to Stay
   • Airbnb in La Condesa | SAVE
   • Casa Decu | STANDARD
   • Sofitel Mexico City Reforma | SPLURGE
3. Four-Day Bachelorette Party in Mexico City Map
4. Day 1 | Arrive and Settle In
   • Hunt for Flowers
5. Day 2 – A Day out for Foodies
   • Filigrana Brunch
   • Mercado Medellín
   • Explore more about Roma 
   • Huerto Roma Verde
   • Take a Cooking Class 
   • DIY Cocktail Tour
6. Sunday – A Day on the Water
   • Panadería Rosetta
   • Xochimilco
   • Restaurante Rosetta Dinner
   • Lucha Libra
7. Day 4 – A Day for the Arts in San Angel & Coyoacán
   • Restaurante El Cardenal
   • Carmen Church of San Ángel
   • Saturday Art Market
   • Art Galleries and Stores
   • Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo
   • Coyoacan Market
   • Casa Azul
   • Bazar Artesanal Mexicano
   • Corazón de Maguey

Why Go to Mexico City?

Mexico City has it all. Cheap food, amazing cocktail bars, fun activities, gorgeous museums, awe-inspiring street art, retro architecture and phenomenal culture. This itinerary is for a Mexico City Bachelorette party who are maybe a little more eccentric. And don’t want a cookie-cutter weekend. Throw out ideas of strip clubs and manicures. Replace them with enriching museums, astonishing street food and giddying streets to explore with your friends. There are so many different activities to suit all kinds of brides. But you can intertwine all of them in this itinerary to give all the guests a little bit of everything. Whether they like to party or like a more laid-back weekend, I think Mexico City suits the needs of everyone.

Where to Stay

Airbnb in La Condesa | SAVE

Another wonderful thing about a Mexico City Bachelorette is that there are many different types of accommodations. Options to suit all different price points. A great choice for the savers is to rent an Airbnb in La Condesa. La Condesa is my favourite neighbourhood in the entire city. Here you can rent out entire houses and apartments to host your whole crew. This way, you can all stay together. It’s so fun to use the communal kitchen to make some of your meals. Or just relax in the outdoor spaces at night or in the morning. Soaking up all that amazing Mexico City weather! 

I found this incredible house in La Condesa with seven bedrooms and eleven beds. And it’s just under $300 USD a night. If you came with eight girlfriends, that is less than $40/night per person! Plus, you get all the amenities of having a house! There are many different options with Airbnb, from modern chic to more traditional, historic homes. You can really find the perfect fit to suit your bride-to-be.

USD $300/night (plus cleaning fees)

Casa Decu | STANDARD

If your guests would prefer a hotel, then you should check out the Casa Decu hotel, also in La Condesa. Casa Decu is located inside an old Art Deco building and has quickly become my new favourite hotel in the city. The benefit of hotels are they offer a little bit more privacy and the comfort of not having to clean up for yourself every day. The design of this place is so retro, the amenities are top-notch, and the rooftop breakfast patio is fantastic. They have a huge table under some shade upstairs, perfect to host your group. So you can all eat breakfast together each morning before hitting the streets.

All the rooms, even the most inexpensive, each come with their own mini kitchenette. This way you can keep food your buy along the way in the fridge. But you’ll also have the opportunity to cook a small meal, or just an aperitif before dinner, in the room. Be sure to message the hotel directly to see if they can provide you with additional group promotional rates!

USD $105/night

Sofitel Mexico City Reforma | SPLURGE

If you want to go all out, splurge on a few nights at the Sofitel Mexico City. Located on the famous Paseo de la Reforma, the main avenue in Mexico City. This hotel boasts some of the most fabulous views of the city from the comfort of your hotel room. The hotel is the first luxury French-branded hotel in the city, so you know you’re staying somewhere really special. The chic interiors are fabulous and suit the modern bachelorette aesthetic. Plus, their indoor pool on the 28th floor has one of the most spectacular views of the city. Which is even more incredible at sunset! Bring your girlfriends up here at dusk, and they’ll be so impressed!

USD $270/night

Four-Day Bachelorette Party in Mexico City Map

Day 1 | Arrive and Settle In

The best way to get settled and adjust to the new altitude (Mexico City is, after all, 7,300 feet above sea level) with your girlfriends is a self-guided taco tour. I’ve created this unique taco tour all around La Condesa! This tour lets you explore the neighbourhood while stopping in to try the barrio’s best tacos. Along the way, you can stop and check out whatever your eyes are drawn to. Exploring those little curious corners of the neighbourhood is a great way to work off those tacos, so you’re ready for more!

Hunt for Flowers

As you’re all exploring the neighbourhood for tacos, be sure to go hunting for flowers as well. If you’re travelling as a bridal party, seeking out fresh flowers from the flower carts is the perfect activity! Great practice for the wedding day bouquets. Fresh flowers in Mexico City are so inexpensive and jazz up your Airbnb or Hotel room. In La Condesa, you can simply walk up and down Avenue Amsterdam to find many different vendors. The one across from the Walmart called Flower Jessica (marked on the map above and at the end of the post) is always reliably filled with great flowers! 

Self Made Bouquets

It’s so much fun to grab as many different flowers as your heart delights. Then head back to your hotel’s rooftop patio or communal space to make your own little flower arrangements. It’s a fantastic yet also slightly relaxing activity. Great to do while you adjust to the new time zone and altitude.

“But we don’t have any vases!” you might think. Not to worry! While some stands actually do sell them for cheap, there is another option that is almost free. Just run over to your local Oxxo or 7-Eleven convenience store and buy a few drinks inside glass bottles. Fill your basket up with Topo Chico, Mexican Coke or interesting glass bottles of beer. Get back home and enjoy the refreshing beverages while you make your bouqtes. When you’re done, just pop the flowers into the now empty glass bottles with some fresh water. Easy peasy!

Take it Easy, grab a Churro

While you might be DYING to get out there and grab cocktails, trust me on this one, the altitude can make or break you on your first day! It’s best to take it easy, just on the first day. Especially regarding drinking anything alcoholic. If you’re looking for an evening treat, I advise heading to Churrería El Moro. This churro shop is one of the most popular places in the city. And luckily, they have a few locations so you’re never too far away from one. Grab yourself and your girlfriends a huge tray of churros with their selection of dipping sauces. The perfect sharable delight. In addition to amazing trays of churros, they also sell delicious Mexican hot chocolate. A historical Aztec staple you need to try along the way! Try to take in an early night cause tomorrow we hit the streets!

Day 2 – A Day out for Foodies

Today is all about FOOD! We are going to start the day by going out for Brunch. Brunch in Mexico City is truly world-class! And there are so many different places to go. But if you want to check out my favourites, you can’t go wrong with any of these locations. So if the only I’ve recommended below is booked up there are lots of other options.

Filigrana Brunch

Filigrana is my new favourite brunch spot, so I had to update this list to feature it. Walking inside, you are immediately in awe of the environment. The glass walls allow the beautiful morning sun to filter in, creating rainbows of light on the floor. You are immediately greeted by friendly servers. Before you’ve ever ordered, you are brought out their pastry tray with some of the most inventive, colourful and delicious pastries! I had to try at least once, even though I knew more food was coming. Filigrana specializes in Mexican fusion with dishes that combine various cultures. The tortillas served alongside your meal are made literally on sight. You can watch the tortillas makers at work for some in-house entertainment.

Be sure to sample the licuado de mamey, a smoothie made with the Mexican mamey fruit! Heavenly creamy! For your meal, I highly recommend the tostadas, chilaquiles, and, of course, some delicious freshly made guacamole. Served with those aforementioned fresh tortillas. What is so convenient about Filigrana is that you can make easy reservations in advance on Opentable. Especially if you’re visiting on the weekend with a larger group, reservations are absolutely mandatory! But they’re not too hard to find if you book well enough in advance.

Mercado Medellín

After a filling brunch, it’s time to head over to the Mercado Medellín. This market is a vibrant place to explore in the heart of the trendy Roma Norte neighbourhood. Even the walk you’ll take to get here will awaken all your senses! And the architecture in this colonial barrio is absolutely fantastic.

The market itself is a marvellous place to explore all the dazzling produce native to Mexico. In addition, the market is filled with stores selling salsas, fresh mole, nuts, rainbow-coloured candies, colourful pinatas and more! You can just wander around to your heart’s content. Or follow my self-guided tour to better understand the best things to check out!

Explore more about Roma 

Before our big evening activity, make a point to explore more of the Roma Norte neighbourhood. Roma Norte is known for having the best bar scene, top-class restaurants, incredible street food, and picturesque cafes on every street corner. But the area is also home to some of the best-preserved colonial-era architecture. Every street is plush with greenery and ivy falling off the Juliet balconies above. Wide avenues are home to charming works of art, and the idyllic parks are where locals come to relax.

Although you might not have time to take the entirety of my Roma Walking Tour, I would recommend at least walking up and down some of the side streets around Tepeji street. It’s here where you’ll find the filming location where they shot the Academy Award-nominated movie Roma. These streets are so quiet yet picturesque, so it’s the perfect place to safely wander with your girlfriends.

Huerto Roma Verde

On the way to our next activity, head over to the large intersection at Avenue Yucatan. Across the street, on the east side, you can spot a bright blue column, this giant structure is actually made of old water jugs! This icon marks the monumental entrance to the Huerto Roma Verde. Huerto Roma Verde is a cultural centre made from recovered property once destroyed by the 1985 earthquake. The land was abandoned for 27 years and used as a dumping ground. But Paco Ayala, who initiated the project, saw the 8,000 square feet as an opportunity. He saw the space as a place for regrowth and environmental education through art.

About Huerto Roma Verde

The self-managed community found inside these walls was created by grassroots environmental activists. It began as a small shared vegetable garden. Where residents who lived in small apartments without outdoor space could come and grow their own fresh food. From there, it grew to have a storage tower to collect rainwater, a recycling centre for solid waste and even several farm animals! They aim to focus on sustainability and promote the development of communities integrated into their local environments.

Much of the space is designed to be an urban garden with mind-bending art sculptures created within the living environment. While you can wander the space and appreciate the artworks, you can also stop at the various pop-up businesses. They sell everything from organic cosmetics to vegan desserts and fresh coffee. It’s a fantastic place to do some local shopping!

Take a Cooking Class 

Cooking classes are such wonderful group activities as everyone gets to participate, have some fun and learn more about the culture of the place their visiting. Plus you also get to eat everything you cook! Over at Eat Mexico, they have a cooking class that celebrates Mexico’s food culture and teaches their guests how to master these hundred-year-old recipes. From basic green salsa to corn masa, chicken tinga and papas con chorizo. You’ll learn how to cook nopales, make some chilaquiles and learn more about all the different varieties of Mexican chillies that flavour almost every dish you eat in Mexico.

(Note these classes only run Tues-Friday so plan accordingly.)

Price: $83 USD/ per person

DIY Cocktail Tour

For those who don’t want the night to end, you can safely bar hop along with the Avenida Álvaro Obregón in Roma Norte. Start at Gin Gin Álvaro Obregón, my favourite bar; thanks for their out-of-this-world, skeletal decor! Their cocktail menu is IMMENSE and highlights (as is the name of the bar infers) gin! As the night wears on, a DJ will sometimes play live music. While this can get very loud, if that’s your vibe, you’ll enjoy yourself.

The next place I would head to with my girlfriends is Licorería Limantour, just a few doors down. This place is a legendary cocktail bar in Mexico City which some of the most clever drinks & snacks in a chic environment, complete with a gorgeous terrace. Sitting here on a hot night, enjoying a cool breeze, is a fantastic way to while away an evening.

Hanky Panky

If you still are craving some more entertainment, walk or uber up to the northern part of Roma Norte to Hanky Panky Speakeasy. Be sure you book a reservation at this place in advance, as it’s the only way to get in if you’re not a member. Speakeasies have had a resurgence all over the world in the past few years, and this one is perhaps the most fun to discover. The place looks like nothing more than a small taco shop when you arrive. But on the right is a large fridge that juts suspiciously far out from the wall…

Once you provide your reservation details to the man behind the counter, he will open up the beer fridge and usher you inside. He closes the door behind you, and you’ll think the worst for a moment as you are plunged into darkness. But then, another door opens in front of you, and you enter into the chic, deliciously vibey atmosphere of the hidden bar inside. Drinks cost around $160-$220 pesos, which is more than reasonable considering the incredible drama of the place! It’s a delightfully fun experience for those who want to impress and awe their friends. Keep the details of this stop a secret, and the bride will be impressed with your discovery!

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Sunday – A Day on the Water

Panadería Rosetta

After what was no doubt a late late night, eating is the only real way to cure a hangover! And set you right for the day ahead. One of my other favourite laid-back brunch restaurants in Mexico City is Panderia Rossetta. This incredible bakery in Roma Norte is a hot spot every morning, no matter the time of day. And there is good reason for this, aside from its spectacular appearance. The pastries baked fresh daily are some of the most inventive, delicious and mouthwateringly beautiful creations. Their guava pastry is one of their most popular options.

Although there is seating outside, you might need to wait a while, depending on how busy it is. Luckily, if you’re staying in the area, you can get a whole selection of parties and coffees to bring back for a laid-back taste test at home. 

Alternatively, I recommend bringing your haul to the nearby Plaza Río de Janeiro. This incredibly beautiful park is encircled by some of the city’s most gorgeous art deco and colonial architecture. It is a wonderful place to enjoy a morning coffee and pastry in the sun. If you’re lucky, you might also have some street food vendors pass you by to top off your breakfast with some fresh tamales or fresh fruit cups!

Xochimilco

After loading up on carbs and recovering from the night before, it’s time to head out to one of the most interesting, vibrant and culturally significant places just outside Mexico City; Xochimilco. Xochimilco is known as the Venice of Mexico. Xochimilco consists of over 170 kilometers of canals spread across the southern part of Mexico City. The word “Xochimilco” means “Floating Gardens,” as this was where the ancient Aztecs created a network of artificial agricultural plots. These garden plots are called chinampas, land rich in minerals, where flowers and a variety of fruits and veggies grow in abundance. Xochimilco is now considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it preserves this Aztec technology.

Where is Xochimilco

Xochimilco is about 45 minutes south of the city. You can easily book an Uber to drive you to and from the Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas Xochimilco. This is the ONLY place you should arrive to get onto your Trajineras. There are TONS of bike people who might stop you on the way into town saying this place is closed, but it’s not. It’s a common scam to get people to access a different dock with much higher prices. Just tell your driver to ignore them, and push onto your destination.

Trajineras

One of the most iconic aspects of a trip on the canals today are riding inside the neon painted Trajineras. These brightly coloured boats float up and down the canals and today can be rented out by individuals or groups to enjoy the beauty of the canals. They have flat bottoms and float throughout the canals with nothing more than a long wooden ore controlled by your rower, just like a gondolier. In the center of the boat is a large table, and there are about a dozen chairs on either side, so you can have an entire group ride on the same boat! The covered roof is perfect for keeping the sun off during hot days, but if you want to sit out in the sunlight, the front of the boat has ample room.

The boats are vibrantly painted to resemble the flowers that grew on either side of the canals hundreds of years ago. Each boat is given a different name; you might not know that if you know who to call, you can have your name painted on a boat just for you when you arrive. This is perfect for your bride as you can even get it named after her!

How to Rent a Boat

Getting a Trajinera inexpensively isn’t something you should expect when coming to Xochimilco. This isn’t one of those super budget-friendly excursions. The maximum rate set by the city is 500 pesos per hour, per boat (not per person as some tricky boatmen might quote you). You can try and haggle your way down, but unless you have a good grasp of Spanish haggling, you’ll find it difficult to get the rides any cheaper than 400-450 pesos per hour.

2-hours is the minimum I would go for since it takes a while for them to get the boats out of the dock, and an hour would barely get you out into the canals far enough to see the real Xochimilco. I would honestly say I wish we’d gone out for longer! Plus, the longer you go, the better your chance of striking a deal! Remember to tip your boatman at the end of the trip, most of the money you pay goes to his boss, and the driver sees little of that price, so a nice tip will go a long way for them.

Group Tours to Xochimilco

You can easily book a group tour if you’d rather not deal with all these details yourself. This takes all the organization out of your hands and lets you enjoy yourself without needing to be at the wheel. My favourite site to book these tours lately has been Airbnb experiences. I find their prices the most competitive and don’t include too many extras you don’t need. These tours are great as the guides help explain sights along the way and usually include a bit of food! 

You are allowed to bring whatever food and drinks you want with you to the Trajineras. I always recommend stopping by your local convenience stores to load up on some neat snacks and a few drinks. Depending on what day of the week you visit will change what’s open (the weekdays tend to have fewer stalls and sellers open than the weekends). But there’s always something to buy on land and on the water. That’s right, there’s food available throughout the canals as you travel. Vendors with roasted corn, coconut water, tacos, cold beer and freshly made micheladas float up and down the canals. The prices are more than you’d pay in the market, but you pay for the privilege of having them coming right to your boat!

Restaurante Rosetta Dinner

After coming home, it’s probably time for everyone to enjoy a bit of a nap after a hot day out on the water. If you feel like you’d like a gorgeous dinner tonight, I would recommend reservations at Restaurante Rosetta. This stunning eatery is located inside an old villa and is literally dripping, inside and out, with greenery. The menu is unique and creative and is a fusion of traditional Mexican dishes with modern, international ingredients. It’s such a gorgeous interior you’ll be absolutely transported both by the food and the decor.

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Lucha Libra

If your crew is the adventurous type, just down the street is the Arena México, where you can catch a Lucha Libre show almost every day of the week! Lucha Libre is Mexican Wrestling and even if you aren’t even the slightest bit of a wrestling or sports fan, going to these shows is soooo much fun. We’ve gone both with a tour group and on our own, and it’s a blast either way. Going on your own is much cheaper, as tickets are only about $25 USD but going with the group is a wonderful experience for first-timers. They teach you all about the sport’s history and why it has become such an important part of the Mexican identity.

Everywhere you go in Mexico City, you’ll see Lucha masks for sale and everything from t-shirts to souvenir magnets with famous wrestlers on them. So it’s good to find out what this is all about. It’s a fun group activity as it gets everyone talking. Even if you don’t speak a lick of Spanish, it’s so much fun to try to interpret the storylines and the moves and just sit back and be in awe of the absolute madness and amazing physical prowess this real athlete put on display!

Day 4 – A Day for the Arts in San Angel & Coyoacán

Our last day in Mexico City is about immersing ourselves in the city’s most artistic areas of the city; San Angel and Coyoacan. This is where Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera spent more of their lives and careers. The entire neighbourhood is steeped in vibrant creativity. We’ll start the day in San Angel, exploring the brilliant colonial architecture and amazing art scene, and then uber over to nearby Coyoacan, where we can walk in the footsteps of Frida Kahlo. San Angel is famous for its Saturday Art Market. But if you choose to arrive here on any other day, you’ll still find the neighbourhood to be an incredible place to find wonderful works of art!

Restaurante El Cardenal

Head to the best breakfast spot in San Angel, Restaurante El Cardenal, to start your morning. Restaurante El Cardenal is an institution in Mexico City that was founded in 1969! At El Cardenal, you can come and feel like you’re dining at your mother’s table. Their location in San Ángel is located inside an old colonial mansion and the gorgeous architecture make eating here a luxurious experience.

To start the perfect breakfast, begin with hot chocolate, not coffee! Their unique hot chocolate is made with famous Doña Oliva chocolate and is like drinking a cup of history. Hot chocolate originated in Mexico and was an essential part of the Aztec culture from 1400 AD. My favourite part about the experience of eating here was the pastry tray. When you come inside, a waiter brings you over an enormous tray of sweet pastries. And you can choose, with your own eyes, which pastry you want to start the meal right with. I went with the concha as I feel like it’s the perfect pairing with a hot chocolate. The rest of the menu is filled with traditional Mexican brunch options and honestly you can’t go wrong with any of them!

Carmen Church of San Ángel

As we make our way west towards the Plaza San Jacinto, quickly stop inside the old Carmelite church, just across from the restaurant. The church was built here in 1615 and it features some amazing Herrerian architecture. The courtyard makes for a wonderful photo op as you are surrounded by incredible Puebla tiles, fantastical domed rooms and beautiful greenery. Even if your group isn’t super religious, I love stopping in here just to admire the marvellous architecture and baorque art.

Walking into the church, the restrained architecture surrounding you highlights the incredible golden altar. Light frames the altar from either side, creating the most ethereal glow. While the rest of the building might be simpler in design, the altarpiece is pure baroque. Drama, glamour and gilding are everything that the baroque era brought, and we can see it here in leaps and spurts! Since today is all about art, this is a great spot to make a quick stop.

Saturday Art Market

If you come to San Angel on the weekend, you’ll be graced with the amazing Saturday Art Market. It is by far the most popular event in the area. The art on sale is both meant for the locals to enjoy as well as the tourists. Found on easels and leaning against the walls are works of art highlighting the beauty of the Mexican landscape and their vibrant culture. There were so many amazing artists of all different styles and mediums. 

In addition to paintings, this Plaza is also home to craftspeople. Here you can find artisan pottery, textiles and even clothing. While some of it is a bit touristy, there are also unique designers and artists. Prices tend to be a little more expensive here in San Angel, but the quality matches the cost. This is a great market to find some amazing souvenirs to bring home!

Art Galleries and Stores

If you opt to visit San Angel on any other day than Saturday, you can still find many handicraft shops open around the square throughout the week. They keep the spirit of the art market alive throughout the week. Shops like the Bazar San Ángel, María Bonita and Local México sell gorgeous handmade decor and art pieces for your home. The spirit of the art market lives on long past the weekend, so don’t feel like you’ll have missed it all if you can only visit during the week. Maria Bonita sells amazing pieces of art made by Mexican artists at very affordable prices. Their store is also a joy to walk through and feels absolutely transporting.

Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo

Wander through the back alleys of San Angel, north towards the incredible Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. This amazing feat of architecture was where Diego Rivera worked and lived alongside his wife, Frida Kahlo. The two homes are connected via the large walkway on the top floor. The entire design of the homes is symbolic of their love. So it really makes for a great stop for a future bride!

The museum leads you through both houses to see their studios, living spaces and a gorgeous rooftop view across the neighbourhood of San Angel. You can read our full guide here to get a complete guided tour of the Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. The house doesn’t take much time to explore, but the incredible architecture is worth seeing. Plus, if you’re a fan of Frida and Diego, this peeks into their private lives is unrivalled.

Coyoacan Market

By now, you’re no doubt starting to get hungry, so it’s time to hop into an Uber and head over to Coyacano. Start your introduction to Coyoacan outside the famous Mercado de Coyoacán! This market has stood here for decades, and if you look at the roofline, you’ll see that it’s more than one building pieced together. The newest part of the structure was built in the 1950s. But the original, much smaller marketplace was where Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera would come to shop for their famous dinner parties held at the Casa Azul.

El Jardín del Pulpo

Before entering the market’s interior, stop at the sidewalk entrance on the corner of Malintzin and Ignacio Allende where you’ll find El Jardín del Pulpo. El Jardín del Pulpo translates into ‘The Octopus’s Garden, ‘where you can indulge in Coyoacán’s best street seafood. While it might seem a little more expensive than regular street food, you’ll be eating such luxuries as lobster and langostino. You MUST give their GIANT shrimp cocktails a try!

Tostadas Coyoacan 

But the main reason for visiting this market is to try Tostadas Coyoacan! The lines can get pretty long at lunchtime, but it moves quickly and gives you time to scope out what you want to try. The shrimp ceviche tostadas with thick slices of avocado to cut the acidity are absolute perfection! If eating raw seafood is a little too adventurous for you, try their famous shredded chicken; simple, moist and flavourful! There are six different eating areas with bar-style seating, so you can almost always find somewhere to saddle up, even at the busiest time of day.

Barbacoa is another traditional dish to try in the Coyacán market. If you’re visiting on Saturdays and Sundays, find your war to El Borrego de Oro or ‘The Golden Sheep’ at the back of the market. The shreds of tender meat atop freshly made tortillas are absolute heaven.

Casa Azul

What most people come to Coyocan for is the Casa Azul, also known as the Frida Kahlo Museum. The Casa Azul was where Mexican artist Frida Kahlo grew up, became an artist, married, and even died. She lived there with her husband, Diego Rivera, and together the two of them transformed a simple home into an artist’s retreat. After her death, the artworks of Frida Kahlo became an international sensation, gaining notoriety more and more as time went on. A hidden genius being discovered after her death, like it so often goes. But Frida herself has become an icon and cultural phenomenon. It’s very important to book these tickets in advance, especially for a large group.

The museum is less of a simple art gallery and more like an inside look at her private world. Although there are a few paintings from both artists, the main focus of the Casa Azul is the couple’s Mexican folk art and being able to tour their home exactly as it was when they lived and worked inside it. Throughout the house, you’ll see their collections of pre-Hispanic artifacts, photographs, memorabilia, personal items, and more. You feel deeply connected with these artists by literally walking in their footsteps. The best part for a group of gals is Frida’s personal wardrobe that features pieces from the fashion icon. This is an unmissable experience for anyone interested in art or Frida herself. 

Bazar Artesanal Mexicano

If you’re travelling with a group of ladies, there is no doubt some shopping needs to be done! Just outside of the main square in Coyoacan is the Bazar Artesanal Mexicano. Inside the arched red gates, you step into a small courtyard always adorned with a myriad of artisanal decor. Throughout the two levels of tiny stalls crammed into different corners, you’ll find everything from traditional Mexican clothing complete with gorgeous embroideries, artisanal jewellery, various handicrafts, and pretty much everything you could want for souvenirs. 

The benefit of this artisan market is that it is on the small side but still has everything you could want. This means it’s a little less overwhelming, and you can more easily find what you’re looking for without. Plus, the prices here are slightly lower than in the more touristy Artisan Market outside the Historical Centre in the central city.

Corazón de Maguey

To end the day, make reservations at the Corazón de Maguey. This restaurant in the heart of Coyoacan is an absolute feast for the eyes and the stomach. Walking into the lively cantina, you’re overwhelmed by the bright red walls trimmed in myriad traditional Mexican kitchen implements used for decoration. Huge glass jugs used to store mezcal are stacked around the room, used almost as room dividers. 

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The restaurant specializes in traditional Mexican food served in HUGE portions. My recommendation is to order a whole bunch of different dishes and just share them between the entire table. It’s a great place to try out any food you didn’t get a chance to sample yet. Everything from red mole to beef tongue, stuffed chile ancho peppers, Oaxacan cheese and handmade tortillas are just some of the amazing dishes on the menu. Honestly, it’s one of the most stunning restaurants and the perfect place to end an action packed Mexico City Bachelorette trip!

I hope you enjoyed this Mexico City Bachelorette itinerary! I think this is indeed the perfect combination of activities to entertain everyone. Let me know in the comment where your favourite location of a Bachelorette has been or if you’re planning on hosting your own Mexico City Bachelorette!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post The Ultimate Bachelorette Trip to Mexico City first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

But while the pandemic might be raging outside my doors, lucky for us, the wonders of modern technology allow us to travel virtually. Even while cooped up at home! So if you’re looking for something fun to do, perhaps this virtual weekend tour of Mexico City is just what you need. This virtual tour is a fun way to bring a little bit of wanderlust back into your life and break your pandemic routine.

Table Of Contents

1. Saturday – Start with a Café de Olla
2. Visit the Golden Metropolitan Cathedral
3. Find your Inner Archeologist in Templo Mayor
4. Discover Historic Treasures inside the National Museum of Anthropology
5. Find Art Deco Murals inside the Palacio de Bellas Artes
6. Discover Mexico's Fold Art Heritage at the Museo de Arte Popular
7. Hike to the Chapultepec Castle
8. Take a Mexican Cooking Class
9. Sunday: Start off in Coyoacan's Casa Azul
10. Take a Virtual Walking Tour of Coyoacan
11. Experience the Wonders of Xochimilco
12. Peek into the Life of Frida & Diego inside the Museo Dolores Olmedo
13. Learn how to Make Mole
14. Watch a Lucha Libre Match!

Saturday – Start with a Café de Olla

One of my favourite parts of the day when visiting any city is early in the morning. This might seem odd to some people, as their idea of a vacation is getting to sleep in. But I find the morning to be the best time of day to see a new city. I love watching the locals walking to work, taking their dogs out to the park and admiring the sunlight as it rises to wake the city. And in every city I’ve visited, everyone starts the day off with a cup of coffee.

In Mexico City, I had some of the best cups of coffee of my life! One of the traditional forms of coffee in Mexico is called ‘Café de olla‘. Café de olla is easy to prepare at home yourself and will make you feel like you’re somewhere new! Café de olla is traditionally made in an earthen clay pot, and its predominant flavour is made from boiling cinnamon sticks. This gives the coffee the most amazing spiced flavour.

Café de Olla Recipe

The video below is my favourite recipe guide as it’s hosted by this adorable Abuela (Spanish for “grandmother”). She shares with us her time hnoured recipe for her Café de Olla. The only ingredient you might not find in your local grocery store is the ‘piloncillo‘. A piloncillo or panela is a cone of unrefined cane sugar. This boils away in the water and sweetens the coffee as it dissolves. If you don’t like sweet coffee, you can omit this altogether or just add white sugar to taste.

Visit the Golden Metropolitan Cathedral

Now that you’ve had your caffeine, let’s continue our peaceful start to the day. Next stop: the Metropolitan Cathedral, located in the heart of the Zocalo. The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Assumption of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven is probably the longest title of a church I’ve ever seen. The church is the official seat of the Catholic Archdiocese of Mexico. While being such a holy place for Christians is enough to make this building sacred, it is also located right beside one of the most outstanding former Aztec precincts. The area is a powerful connecting space between both the new and old world. You can sit back and enjoy a 4K virtual tour of the building in the video below. Admire the fantastic gilding throughout the church and the stunning Saint chapels that flank either side of the nave.

CyArk

One of the most remarkable ways you can get up close to the details inside the church is through the work of CyArk. CyArk is a non-profit organization that aims to digitally record, archive and share the world’s most significant cultural heritage sites. In 2018 they set out to document the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral. Since the structure is at such high risk due to earthquake damage, capturing it as it is now will help future restorers should the worst happen.

Altar of the Kings

As of 2021, CyArk has captured in 3D the entirety of the monumental ‘Altar of the Kings‘. This altar measures 45.1 ft wide, 82 ft tall and 25 ft deep! The altar is almost entirely covered in gold gilding and features hundreds of painted figures. Due to its enormous size and amount of gold used, it is also called the “golden cave“. With the CyArk technology, you can zoom right into the different pieces of the atar and see the smallest details you can’t see from the floor below.

You can also explore the exterior of the church. Zooming all around it, even peeking onto the roof. You can explore areas of the building unable to be seen by the public on the ground. I had never even noticed until now that the central dome’s onion roof has blue ceramic tiles lining the ribs! Their website also offers a detailed exhibition into the creations of this digital masterpiece.

Find your Inner Archeologist in Templo Mayor

Located right beside the Cathedral are the ancient ruins of the Templo Mayor. The Templo Mayor (which is Spanish for the “Greater Temple”) was the Aztec people’s main place of worship[ in their capital city of Tenochtitlan. Tenochtitlan was founded around 1325 on an island in what was then Lake Texcoco. The Aztec empire flourished here until the 15th century until the Spanish invaded and changed the course of Mexican history forever. The temple constructed here was called the Huēyi Teōcalli. It was dedicated to both the war god Huitzilopochtli, and the god of rain and agriculture, Tlaloc. Construction of the temple is thought to have begun in 1325 but saw significant reconstruction over the years. The Spanish destroyed the temple in 1521, but luckily we still have these remains to study the great empire.

History of the Museum

When the modern metropolis of Mexico City began to be constructed, city planners had no idea what was beneath the earth’s surface. In 1978 archeologist Eduardo Matos Moctezuma discovered that beneath 13 buildings in this area there were the ruins of the old empire. Excavating the site meant that all these 13 structures had to be demolished. Luckily, the city saw more value in recovering lost treasures of the past than preserved buildings from colonization.

More than 7,000 objects were discovered here and are on display in the museum. Skeletons of turtles, frogs and crocodiles were found as this area was once a rich waterway. There were also mixtec figurines, ceramic urns from Veracruz, masks from Guerrero state, copper rattles, and decorated skulls and knives of obsidian that were uncovered. So many of these objects came from far away, revealing that this city was a great place to journey to.

Street View

The museum opened to the public in 1980 so that everyone could view these fantastic pieces of Mesoamerican history. To view the site for yourself, you can explore it is via google street view in 360. You can look up and down on the exterior and see the details of these centuries-old buildings.

To find out more about the museum and the old temple, you can watch this video below. There are English subtitles to follow along with if you don’t speak Spanish. The video is well worth listening to as it gives you an excellent primer on the history of the site.

Discover Historic Treasures inside the National Museum of Anthropology

To learn even more about Mexico’s ancient history, head over to the virtual National Museum of Anthropology. This museum is the most visited museum in Mexico City. That is saying a lot since Mexico City is home to the world’s 2nd most extensive collection of museums! The National Museum of Anthropology’s goal is to research, conserve, exhibit and disseminate the most important archaeological and ethnographic collections from the country.

The online gallery is broken up into categories based on the materials the objects are made of. You can view pieces made of stone, clay, rock and more. When you click on an object, you will be able to study it in detail by zooming in and out. They scanned the items at such high-res you can get right into the cracks! Along with the images of the item are excellent write-ups on the pieces that will tell you all about where it was discovered, the meaning behind it and even information about the craftsmen who made it.

Find Art Deco Murals inside the Palacio de Bellas Artes

The Palacio de Bellas Artes or Palace of Fine Arts is an Art Nouveau masterpiece. It stands as the central hub for music, dance, theatre, opera and literature in Mexico, dubbing it with the nickname “Cathedral of Art“. Construction on the Palacio began in 1904 but was halted in 1913 due to many different complications. The structure wasn’t finished until 1934.

While the exterior is a beautiful blend of Art Nouveau and Neoclassical architecture, the interior is decorated with Art Deco elements. One of the things which makes the building so famous is the interior murals painted by Diego Rivera. To explore the Palacio de Bellas Artes, you can take a virtual tour. On the official website, you’ll be able to see the incredible murals, tour the sprawling art deco lobby, explore the theatre and even see underneath the stage! Something which not just any ol’ visitor would be able to see. My favourite part of the building is the stunning stained-glass dome inside atop the theatre.

Discover Mexico’s Fold Art Heritage at the Museo de Arte Popular

Across the street from the Palacio de Bellas Artes, you can find the Museo de Arte Popular. This museum takes visitors back several centuries and studies the history of traditional folk art of Mexico’s people. It aims to display the diversity of cultures and how the interaction between nature, man and society create the rich fabric of Mexican art and artistry.

Two online exhibitions that are available virtually study traditional Mexican textiles and the Festival of Day of the Dead. The show on clothing is such an interesting investigation into the influence of Mexico’s flora and fauna in apparel. You can see how different parts of the country have various iconic patterns dedicated to their local flowers.

In the exhibition ‘The Ofrenda of Day of the Dead‘, the museum aims to teach the viewer all about the Mexican ‘Ofrenda‘. An ‘ofrenda‘ is an altar that families prepare for the relatives who have passed. This is a traditional part of the Day of the Dead celebrations. It is meant to guide the spirits of their dead relatives’ home during the festival. The altar is filled with items that the person who past loved in their life. The altar is also covered with meaningful items such as sugar skulls, marigolds and more. The exhibition will tell you all about the significance of the objects placed on the altar.

Hike to the Chapultepec Castle

Hidden away atop a hill above downtown Mexico City is the great Chapultepec Castle. I was amazed by visiting the castle that such a thing existed in Mexico City’s modern metropolis. Chapultepec Castle’s name comes from the Nahuatl word” chapoltepēc,” that means “at the grasshopper’s hill.” The hillside was, for hundreds of years, a sacred place for the Aztecs. In the 18th century, before the palace was built, the hillside was home to a gunpowder warehouse and military academy. Then in 1864, it became the official residence of Emperor Maximilian I and his consort Empress Carlota.

Carlota went to excellent care and expensive to remodel the palace into a luxurious residence. It was used as an official residence of the President of Mexico from 1883 until 1939. After which it was turned into a museum. My blog about my visit to the castle is a highly detailed summary of all the wonders you’ll find there. YouVisit also has a beautiful virtual tour you can take to view parts of the palace in 360 degrees!

Take a Mexican Cooking Class

The best way to finish off your day is to create a delicious traditional Mexican meal. One of the best things about visiting Mexico City is the food! And while you might not be able to be there yourself, food is always something you can attempt to make at home. One of the very best online class services is the ever-popular MasterClass. Gabriela Cámara, A “star of modern Mexican cuisine,” brings her local, sustainable twist to time-honoured traditions. In this class, you will learn how to make everything you need for a complete Mexican dinner. You’ll make fresh tortillas, succulent tacos al pastor, salsas (of course), and my favourite aguachile de camarón (raw shrimp in lime and chile). You can even learn how to make huevos rancheros to eat for breakfast the next day!

Sunday: Start off in Coyoacan’s Casa Azul

Next up, it’s time to head over to the suburb of Coyoacan, to see where the great artists Frida Kahlo lived. Frida not only grew up in Coyoacan, but she also purchased her childhood home and lived out the rest of her days there too. She called the house “La Casa Azul”. The name comes from the bright Azul (Spanish for blue) colour that the house’s exterior is painted with. In her childhood journal, she wrote that the colour blue represented “electricity and love.” Those two words seem to describe Frida perfectly. Despite all the suffering, she went through her art and her life is filled with such passion and power.

Truly one of my favourite places I have ever visited is the Casa Azul, in Mexico City. This gorgeous blue house, in the cozy neighbourhood of Coyoacan, is where Frida Kahlo lived as a child. It is also where she spent the better part of the end of her life. In Mexican culture, it is good luck to be born and die and in the same place. The Casa Azul is teeming with memories, influences, and the real spirit, Frida Kahlo. There is genuinely no better place to give you a more intimate exploration into her life than inside the Casa Azul.

During the summer of 2020, the Casa Azul Museum took it upon themselves to capture the Casa Azul in 360 degrees. With this new technology visitors from all over the world could explore the house room by room from their own home! You can explore the entirety of the house, peeking into her kitchen, bedroom, studio and her magical garden. The virtual tour doesn’t come with any detailed information, so you can use our self-guided tour. Follow along for a complete understanding of the significance of every object, painting and plant inside the house. If you’re interested in a full virtual tour of Frida Kahlo, you can check out my blog post for more on the great artist.

Take a Virtual Walking Tour of Coyoacan

One of the most important places to study Frida Kahlo is in her home town neighbourhood of Coyoacán. Outside the heart of Mexico City, this little village was where Frida was born, grew up, lived, and eventually died. These streets were her playground, her studio and her home. It’s here you can get a glimpse into the life of the great artist. You can read more about Coyoacan here or take a virtual tour online.

Experience the Wonders of Xochimilco

A place that was sacred to Frida was Xochimilco. Xochimilco and the surrounding Aztec waterways were where Frida and her friends would go to escape the city. A famous photo of Frida on a boat along the Xochimilco canals shows her dipping her hand into the water. She felt at home here, a place to run away from her dramatic marriage, her pain and even perhaps, herself.

Today it’s a vibrant neighbourhood where you can experience the same journey Frida would have taken. There are so many videos online which take you through these wonderfully colourful canals. With a Mezcal in hand at home, you’ll feel like you’re there!

Peek into the Life of Frida & Diego inside the Museo Dolores Olmedo

Located in Xochimilco, the Museo Dolores Olmedo is situated in an old stone house dating back to the 16th century. Inside it contains the world’s largest collections of works by Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. The online exhibition tells the story of the life and art of Frida Khalo. Using personal effects, photographs and live street views of where she lived you feel like you are stepping into her shoes. And of course, you’ll also see a myriad of her earliest paintings and sketches.

Learn how to Make Mole

For our second recipe I wanted to provide an alternative to the subscription service which MasterClass requires. There are TONS of free recipes and tutorials online and the best are on Youtube. Rick Martinez with Food52 (one of my favourite recipe websites) takes us through how to make one of his favourite recipes, Mole. Mole is such an essential part of Mexican cusine. But the recipe can feel like a daunting one to take on. But with Rick’s charming personality and easy-to-follow instructions, he makes the entire experience nothing but fun!

Watch a Lucha Libre Match!

Lucha Libre is one of the most vibrant and exciting sports to watch in Mexico City! It had even been deemed a part of the “intangible cultural heritage” of Mexico City as of 2016. Lucha Libre means “freestyle wrestling,” and these stupendous matches are the perfect way to end off your virtual tour of Mexico City. Over the years, Lucha Libre wrestling has developed a unique style separating it from any form of American wrestling, either professional or Olympic.

In Mexico, wrestlers dress in fantastical outfits and always wear the iconic colourful “lucha” mask. They must wear their mask, hiding their true identity. Only when they lose a match are they unmasked as a sign of disgrace. We went to see a show when we were in Mexico City, and it was one of the most exciting nights of my life! To get an idea of what it is like to experience it for yourself, I would recommend watching the video below.

The video details the entire experience. From entering the great stadium, to the food and, of course, the amazing acrobatics of Lucha wrestling. If you’re interested in just watching other matches, you can check out this video and more online.

This brings us to the end of our lovely virtual weekend in Mexico City. Another part of our series on Virtual Travel. I hope you enjoyed being able to see all these amazing places inside my favourite place in the world! Let me know in the comments what you’re favourite place we saw was and what future destinations you’d like to visit virtually next!

Happy (Virtual) Travels, Adventurers!

The post How to Have an Amazing Virtual Weekend in Mexico City first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Mexico City 7-day Itinerary

1. Where to Stay
   • Chaya B&B Boutique $
   • AR218 – $$
   • Ignacia $$$
2. Day One – Take it Easy
   • Adjust to the Altitude
   • La Condesa
   • Parque México
   • Stop for a Churro
   • Dinner in La Condesa
3. Day Two – Explore the Historic City Centre
   • Pastelería Ideal
   • Zócalo
   • Cathedral of the Assumption
   • National Palace
   • The History of Mexico
   • Azul Historico
   • Torre Tower
   • Palacio de Bellas Artes
   • Diego Rivera Mural Museum
   • National Post Office
   • Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela
   • Roma Norte Dinner
4. Day Three – Chapultepec Park
   • Bosque de Chapultepec
   • Chapultepec Castle
   • Street Food
   • National Museum of Anthropology
   • El Lago de Chapultepec
   • Dinner in Polanco
5. Day Four – Frida Khalo's Coyoacán
   • Café Avellaneda
   • Iglesia De Coyoacan
   • Centenario Garden and Hidalgo Garden
   • Cafe El Jarocho
   • Mercado de Coyoacán
   • Casa Azul – Frida Kahlo Museum
   • Parque Santa Catarina
   • Casa de Cultura Jesús Reyes Heroles
   • Mesón Antigua
   • Go to a Lucha Libra Show
6. Day Five – The Old City of Teotihuacan
   • Pyramids
   • La Gruta
7. Day Six – Xochimilco
   • Mercado Xochimilco
   • Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas
   • Trajineras
   • Food
   • Entertainment along the Canal
8. Day Seven – Back Home

Where to Stay

Chaya B&B Boutique $

Located in the heart of Mexico City, facing the Alameda Park, Chaya Bed an Breakfast is tucked away inside a recently renovated building which provides travellers a budget-friendly hotel experience with public spaces throughout where you can meet other guests, enjoy the rooftop views across Mexico city or just relax on the hammocks after one of the many incredible meals you’ll have in this city. Prices are listed as $145 for the standard room, but I’ve found that on sites like booking.com or Expedia they are often on offer for as low as $91/night!

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AR218 – $$

AR218 is located in my favourite neighbourhood, La Condesa, inside an old 1930’s bungalow which still is decorated with the original talavera floorings while the rest of the hotel has been given a modern update with sleek urban designs. Every room is spacious and contains luxurious amenities that include state-of-the-art technology, cosy and comfy living rooms which make relaxing back at the hotel a joy. If you like to cook some meals they even have fully equipped kitchenettes for your convenience. AR218 is a full-service hotel and offers free bike rentals as well as a slew of technological devices great for travellers like extra battery packs and charging cords. Prices online range but I’ve found rooms for as little as $150 a night.

Ignacia $$$

Ignacia Guest House is technically located in Roma Norte but is just on the edge of the Southern borders. Under the purple blossoms of the Jacaranda tree lining the streets, you will be welcomed home. The house was originally an old 20th-century mansion that has been transformed into just six elegant suites. Since there are so few rooms, everyone who stays here feels like family.

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Day One – Take it Easy

Adjust to the Altitude

Mexico City is located 7,200 feet (2,200 metres) above sea level! So you’ll find it’s worth giving yourself some time to adjust to the altitude when you arrive. Even if you are lucky enough not to experience any of the severe side effects, most travellers will feel a little more tired than usual. Or you might have to exert more effort than you might be used to when walking. The best way to fight the altitude is to drink lots and lots of water. And maybe avoid those cocktails for the first night.

La Condesa

After dropping your bags off at your hotels, I would recommend a leisurely walk around La Condesa. La Condesa is a very tourist-friendly neighbourhood which makes it a relaxing place to explore just when you arrive.

La Condesa is famous for its tree-lined avenues with wide pedestrian sideways located in the centre of the road. Along the streets, you’ll see art nouveau mansions and art deco-inspired apartment buildings. “Condesa” means “countess” as it was named for the Countess of Miravalle. The Countess once owned all the land in this area. Wander along Amsterdam Avenue, which is a circular loop that wraps around one of the city’s best parks. On either side of the street, you’ll find incredible coffee shops and fantastic eateries. Stop into any that catches your eye to fuel up! In this area the food and drinks are so good you really can’t go wrong.

Parque México

Make your way to Parque México. If you arrived on the weekend, you’ll find that this park is filled to the brim with families and their dogs. Parque México has one of the largest dog parks and public spaces in the city. And it is absolutely vibrating with energy on the weekend. Dozens of street vendors line the outskirts of the parks where you’ll be able to try a myriad of different local street food. My personal favourite are the fresh slices of mango, topped with lime and chilli! Spicy and sweet, the perfect combination.

Stop for a Churro

Stop off for a churro and hot chocolate at Churrería El Moro on the corner of the park. This churro cafe has a few locations around Mexico City and is a reliable place for fresh, delicious churros. Be sure to get the Mexican hot chocolate to dip your churros into as you eat as is the custom.

Dinner in La Condesa

To end your night in La Condesa, grab a bite to eat. As it’s our first day in town, let’s just do something quick and easy and save those luxurious dinners for later in the week. And honestly, I’m sure everyone is dying to eat what they really came to Mexico City for; TACOS! El Tizoncito is known for its incredible tacos, Al Pastor. Despite being a chain, it is my favourite place to eat tacos in Condesa. Fast, cheap and friendly! Plus, their salsas are an excellent way to enhance the flavour! 

If you want to try a bunch of different types of tacos in a very unintimidating place, head over to El Farolito Altata or Taquería El Califa. These are both fast-food-like restaurants with great menus with almost every kind of taco you can think of. While there might be better versions of these tacos in street stands all over the city, this is a great place to try them and see what you like. Then, once you’re a little more settled, you can try the street food tacos!

Day Two – Explore the Historic City Centre

After a leisurely first day, it’s time to hit the streets. The Historic Centre of Mexico City is one of the busiest areas of the city. I’d recommend heading to the centre early in the morning. This will result in seeing fewer tourists out and about when you first arrive to get your bearings. By the afternoon you’ll see how much more crowded it gets!

Pastelería Ideal

Start your morning at Pastelería Ideal. This bakery has been serving flaky pastries and sweet cakes for over 100 years! The morning rush in here is hectic but the bustling atmosphere is absolutely infectious! Huge carts and trays full of sugared treats rush up and down the aisles. The smell of sugar and bread fills the air as soon as you walk in the door.

Take a tray and pick a few of the best-looking sweets. Then head over to one of the counters. While they pack up your treats, they’ll pass you your receipt. You have to pay at another counter. Once you’ve paid you can show your paid stamp to the same people who packed your order and you’ll be ready to go. Seems complicated but honestly I kinda love the process as it feels so retro. Take your sweets with you and head to the Zócalo to enjoy breakfast with a view!

Zócalo

The Zócalo is the main square in Mexico City. Before the Spanish invasion, this was the site of important ceremonies for the Aztec people of Tenochtitlan. Still today you’ll find lots of ceremonies happening in the square. Everything from wearing in of viceroys, royal proclamations, military parades, Independence services and festivals like Day of the Dead can be found here in the square.

The Zocalo is dominated by the enormous flag of Mexico City. The Mexican flag is full of national symbolism. The green stripe represents the Independence Movement. The white stripe represents the purity of the Catholic faith. The red stripe represents the Spaniards that joined in the quest for Independence and the blood of the national heroes. The emblem-shield symbolizes the Aztec heritage. According to legend, the gods had advised the Aztecs that the place where they should establish their city was to be identified when they saw an eagle, perched on a prickly pear tree, devouring a serpent. They saw this mythical eagle on a marshy lake that is now the main plaza in Mexico City.

Cathedral of the Assumption

Across from the Zócalo is the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary into Heavens. After the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire, the Spaniards build their church on the site of the Templo Mayor. The Templo Mayor was the gem of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan. Stones from the destroyed temple of the Aztec were used to build the church. And while we mourn the destruction of the old temple, it is amazing to stare up at the church and see stones from over 1000 years ago.

The construction of the Cathedral began in 1573 and took until 1813 to complete! The enormous cathedral is over 350 feet long and 200 feet wide. This makes it Latin America’s largest and oldest cathedral.

Its enormous size means the Cathedral has four distinct facades. Each facade more elaborately embellished than the next. The church is a patchwork quilt of different styles of architecture and decorations, including Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassic. Although the 215-foot bell tower, containing 25 bells, is proudly done up in a Mexican style of architecture.

National Palace

Head down the street towards the entrance to the National Palace. This place is an enormous museum and art gallery featuring many famous works of art. It’s free to enter, you just need to leave a piece of ID at the gate. And don’t worry, they keep it safe and you’ll get this back when you leave. Because it is free to entre, I would recommend keeping things short, and picking one part of the museum to explore. My recommendation would be the series of murals by Diego Rivera inside the main courtyard. Seeing everything can be pretty overwhelming and I always feel like a shorter visit makes the information more digestable.

The History of Mexico

The murals which encompass the courtyard are called ‘The History of Mexico‘ painted on the main stairwell. Diego Rivera began painting it in 1929 and took over six years to complete. The subject of the mural is Mexico’s history from ancient times to the present day. From north to south the mural depicts the struggles of the indigenous Mexican people against foreign invaders and local dictators.

My favourite aspect of the mural are the depictions of the Aztec people and their rich culture. You can see every day Aztecs at work and play. See images of their icons of worship as well as images of their traditional dress. On the south wall, you’ll see an image of a woman holding the communist manifesto. This is Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera’s wife. Although at the time Frida was only the woman behind Rivera, she would go on to be even more famous than Diego himself. More on her later!

Azul Historico

After finishing at the museum, wander down the long pedestrian avenue Francisco I. Madero. This street is filled with incredible old historical buildings. If you’re looking for something to eat head to one of the city’s most sought-after restaurants, Azul Historico. This restaurant features an indoor-outdoor courtyard where you’ll eat under a tree canopy. The restaurant serves up traditional Mexican cuisine with its own unique flair. One of the most popular dishes is the guacamole with fried crickets, absolutely delicious and a must-try!

Torre Tower

To cap off your lunch, head to the Torre Tower for a view over Mexico City. The tower requires admission for the viewing deck but it’s free to access if head up to the restaurant or bar. If you get a drink at the bar or snack at the restaurant you’ll be able one of the best views in the city! It might be a little pricier than other places in Mexico City, but think of it as a viewing tax.

Palacio de Bellas Artes

After looking at it from above, head down to see the Palacio de Bellas Artes. The Palacio de Bellas Artes hosts events in music, dance, theatre, opera and literature. Therefore it was aptly nick-named the “Cathedral of Art in Mexico“. The exterior of the building is primarily Neoclassical and Art Nouveau and the interior is primarily Art Deco. If the line up isn’t too long, head inside to see the iconic murals by Diego Rivera as well as other famous Mexican artists.

Diego Rivera Mural Museum

If the line up is really long you can always opt to go the Diego Rivera Mural Museum down the road instead. This museum houses one of Diego Rivera’s most famous painting, Dream of a Sunday afternoon in the Alameda.

National Post Office

Across from the Belle Arts building is the National Post Office. While it might seem strange to visit a post office, this one is truly spectacular. The Postal Palace of Mexico City was designed at a time when the post office became a separate government entity. They wanted to show off their power and designed a building with a very eclectic style for the time.

It blends Art Nouveau, Spanish Renaissance Revival, Plateresque, Spanish Rococo style, Elizabethan Gothic, Elizabethan Plateresque and Venetian Gothic Revival all together. And while trying to blend that all together would result in a mess, it is anything but. This building is so iconic to Mexico’s architectural style that it inspired the design for the Department of Family Reunions in the Pixar film, Coco.

Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela

Spend the rest of the afternoon shopping at the nearby Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela. This is the best market to shop for handicrafts and souvenirs. The market looks like a veritable rainbow and even if you walk away with nothing (which I doubt you will) it’s still an incredible place to explore and enjoy. I have an entire post of the best items to buy when you’re visiting if you want to make a checklist! Trust me, this is super handy since it’s so easy to get lost or carried away in this place.

Roma Norte Dinner

Make your way to Roma Norte for dinner. Colonia Roma, as it is also known, was established as an upper-class neighbourhood in the 1900s. At the time, Mexico City wasn’t as large as it is today, and this neighbourhood was considered the newest suburbs of the capital. The design of this European-inspired neighbourhood was meant to appeal to the noble aristocrats. Since the area was badly damaged in the huge earthquake of 1985, many of the buildings were not subjected to modernization. Today it remains as a vestige of another time from Mexico City’s history. Today, Roma is the epicentre of hipster culture in the city with streets lined with restaurants, bars, clubs, shops, cultural centres, and galleries. This is where you can find some of the best sit-down restaurants in the city.

For a gorgeous meal in a modern setting check out Rosetta. Reservations are recommended well in advance for a spot at this hot-spot. For something more laid back and experimental check out the Mercado Roma. This spot is designed to feel like an upscale market. Here you’ll find a series of different vendors spread out so you can try a sampling of different dishes.

After dinner, head to the stylish Gin Gin bar for a few drinks to cap off the night. Not only is the bar incredible chic, I love gin and this is the place to go for some amazing gin cocktails.

Day Three – Chapultepec Park

Bosque de Chapultepec

After a busy day in the historic district, it’s time to slow down and relax in Chapultepec Park. Chapultepec or “Bosque de Chapultepec” is one of the largest city parks in the Western Hemisphere. The entire park is over 1,600 acres! A city this dense and populated needs fresh air and this park act as its lungs. The vast forest of trees replenish fresh air throughout the Valley of Mexico. The name Chapultepec stems from the Nahuatl word chapoltepēc which means “at the grasshopper’s hill”.

Chapultepec Castle

Start your day at Chapultepec Castle. Chapultepec Castle is the ONLY true royal castle in the Americas, as it was actually the residence of the viceroys when the country was ruled by Spain. It was built in 1785 as a summer house for the royals. Not only is this castle a marvel of Mexican-Spanish architecture and interior design, but the view from the terrace over the park and the city are unrivalled.

You can spend hours wandering this home and discovering secrets around every corner. My favourite part is all the incredible stained glass filtering in that beautiful morning sunlight.

Street Food

After finishing up at the castle, walk back the hill towards Avenue H. Colegio Militar. This road will weave its way through the forest towards the best lookout point across Chapultepec Lake. This avenue is absolutely packed with street vendors! Although there is a larger “food court” beside the lake, I would avoid this area. Perhaps since they have more permanent booths, the food can be left inside and therefore isn’t of the highest quality. But the food vendors that flank the roadways are really delicious. So stick with them! These might not be as filling as the meals on offer in the food court area, but you’re better off with a safe bet.

Below are a few of my favourite street snacks so you can keep your eyes out for these reliably delicious traditional treats.

• Chicharron: deep-fried pigskin doused in chilli sauce and freshly squeezed lime juice. Duritos: Duritos (not to be mixed up with Doritos) are a wheat-based pinwheel-shaped snack topped with hot sauce and lime.
• Dorilocos: If you’re looking for something more like a meal, find your way to the Dorilocos vendor. This dish is made by taking a bag of Doritos and slicing it down the long edge, so it opens like a bowl. Then they top it with Mexican radish, shredded cucumber and carrot and Japanese peanuts. Then, of course, it’s topped with lime juice and hot sauce on top. 
• Papas: freshly made potato chips served with hot sauce and lime.

National Museum of Anthropology

After lunch head over the National Museum of Anthropology. This museum contains archaeological and anthropological artifacts from Mexico’s pre-Columbian heritage. It’s is perhaps one of the most powerful and interesting museums I’ve seen. The enormous artifacts from the Aztecs cultures, as well as lesser-known indigenous cultures like the Toltec, Mixtec, Zapotec, and Olmec are larger than life and command your attention. If you don’t know much about the pre-hispanic history of Mexico, this is a wonderful place to start learning.

El Lago de Chapultepec

Finish your day in the park with a padel around El Lago de Chapultepec. This man-made lake is one of the most picturesque places to take a little blue paddle boat and take in the scenery. The views from the middle of the lake are fantastic and even look out at the Colonia Polanco. The boats cost 60-100 pesos/hour (around the U.S. $3). Normally, such a touristy activity would price gouge visitors but not here in the park. The locals enjoy a ride as much as the tourists, so prices are kept low to ensure everyone can enjoy a day out!

Dinner in Polanco

For dinner, let’s head just north of the park to the fanciest neighbourhood in Mexico City; Polanco. Polanco is known for its upscale boutiques and luxury stores. But it also had great food hidden amongst the otherwise ubiquitous shops. If you want to go all out, make reservations at the famous Pujol restaurants. As of 2022, Pujol stands at #9 on the list of the world’s best restaurants! Reservations book up months and months in advance so be sure to get yours as soon as you can. But if you find there are no spots lefts, keep checking as sometimes people make cancellations and something will pop up out of the blue.

If you can’t snag a reservation at Pujol or don’t wanna spend that kind of cash there are lots of other options. One of my faves is El Turix, a little hole in the wall that sells Cochinita Pibil in a multitude of ways. My pick is always the taco but the torta and tamale are also great choices! Cochinita Pibil is best known as a dish from the Yucatec Mayan peninsula and this is the best place to try it outside of the Yucatan!

Day Four – Frida Khalo’s Coyoacán

Coyoacán is one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods, just south of the centre of town. The name comes from the Nahuatl word meaning “place of coyotes.” Today, Coyoacán is most notable for its amazing marketplace, brightly coloured yet quiet streets and gorgeous greenery. But most importantly, it’s where you’ll find the Casa Azul; Frida Khalo‘s home which has been preserved as a museum.

Café Avellaneda

Because this sleepy village doesn’t rise early in the morning, head over to Café Avellaneda for a late brunch. This small but charmingly decorated cafe serves up some inventive, and cosy meals. Give the Chilaquiles Verdes a try or opt for the waffles covered in their selection of seasonal fruit! Great way to try some of the best produce from the marketplace!

Iglesia De Coyoacan

After filling your belly with food, head over to the Iglesia De Coyoacan. The first church was built here in 1577. The site was given to the Franciscan parish by Hernan Cortes, a Spanish Conquistador who led an expedition that caused the fall of the Aztec Empire. Over the years the church has changed appearance from its original form. Renovations and fires continued to shape its evolution but the current church is no less beautiful than all its predecessors.

The facade is a classical herrerian design with geometric rigour and an overall absence of decorations. This is so that when you enter the church there is a huge juxtaposition to what you find walking through the large wooden doors. The interior is covered in baroque gilded decorations, mindblowing ceiling frescos of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, a fantastical work of Juan de Fabregat. The interior feels grand and yet at the same time very intimate. When we visited there were a large group of locals, praying on their way to work.

Centenario Garden and Hidalgo Garden

Outside of the church spend some time wandering the two adjoining parks; Centenario Garden and Hidalgo Garden. In the middle of these gardens is a large canopied rotunda where on the weekend you’ll often hear music being played.

Children are seen playing in the square, and brightly coloured balloons and toy vendors decorate the surroundings. In the centre of the park is a fountain which contains a bronze sculpture of two coyotes. In reference to the original meaning of the borough’s name.

Cafe El Jarocho

For a little pick me up on your way to the market, head over to Cafe El Jarocho. This place has been serving customers in Coyoacan for 63 years and is a veritable piece of history. It’s an unpretentious coffee shop and a great alternative to just another Starbucks. Give their mocha a try since it’s famous for being made with traditional Mexican chocolate and some of their locally grown beans.

Mercado de Coyoacán

Next, you’ll finally arrive at the golden yellow facade of the Mercado de Coyoacán. The interior of this busy market is tightly packed with spices, toys, fruits and vegetables and wonderfully smelling flowers. But the main reason for visiting this market is for their famous tostadas! At lunchtime, the lines can get pretty long, but it moves quickly and gives you time to scope out what you want. The ceviche tostadas with a thick slices of avocado to cut the acidity of the fish are absolute perfection!

Casa Azul – Frida Kahlo Museum

But what most people come to Coyocan for is the Casa Azul, also known as The Frida Kahlo Museum. This was where Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera lived. Frida herself grew up in this family home when her parents owned it. She would later return here to seek refuge from her pain and from the public. Frida is one of the most influential surrealist artists. Her work was inspired by her life, the natural environment and many elements from her Mexican hertiage.

The museum is less of a simple art gallery and more like an inside look at her private world. Although there are a few paintings from both artists, the main focus of the Casa Azul is the couple’s Mexican folk art, pre-Hispanic artefacts, photographs, memorabilia, personal items, and more. You feel a deep connection with these artists by literally walking in their footsteps. This is an unmissable experience for anyone interested in art or Frida herself.

Parque Santa Catarina

As you head towards where you’ll have dinner, stop off in the Parque Santa Catarina. This lovely parkette is dominated by the marigold painted church of Santa Catarina. The square is often a site for party and, and there is usually a remnant of those events still holding onto the sunlight.

Casa de Cultura Jesús Reyes Heroles

Across from the park is the Casa de Cultura Jesús Reyes Heroles. This centre is free to enter and a beautiful place to rest your feet and explore. The “House of Culture” was named in honour of the distinguished historian and political scientist, Jesús Reyes Heroles. In this public centre, you’ll see people writing an essay, practising dance, earning music, having meetings and more!

Mesón Antigua

Across from the Casa de Cultura Jesús Reyes Heroles is the Mesón Antigua. This cosy and welcoming restaurant serves up traditional Mexican food in a charming environment. It’s a great place to try some traditionally made mole and while away the evening on the terrace, watching locals on their way home from work and lovers meeting the park. People watching at its finest.

Go to a Lucha Libra Show

If you feel up for some evening entertainment I would highly recommend going to a Lucha Libre show! Lucha Libre is basically Mexican Wrestling and even if you aren’t even the slightest bit of a wrestling or sports fan, going to these shows is soooo much fun. We’ve gone both with a tour group and on our ownand its a blast either way. Going on your own is much cheaper, as tickets are only about $25 USD but going with the group is a wonderful experience for first-timers. They teach you all about the history of the sport and why it has become such an important part of the Mexican identity. Everywhere you go in Mexico City you’ll see Lucha masks for sale and everything from t-shirt to magnet with famous wrestlers on them so it’s good to find out for yourself what this is all about.

Day Five – The Old City of Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan is one of those places you hear about, and everyone tells you to visit. I was a bit on the fence when I first heard about it, the pictures never really do a place that vast justice, and I didn’t know what to expect. But after going I can tell you, it is indeed a must see part of Mexico and somewhere which taught me a lot about the culture and the history of this country. Teotihuacan is an ancient Mesoamerican city where over 125,000 people once lived in around 100 BCE! At the time it was one of the largest cities in the entire world. Teotihuacan’s pyramids are its most famous site. The Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon were laid out in a geometric and symbolic plan which mirrored the stars.

Pyramids

Climbing up the Pyramid of the Sun is a challenge, especially on a hot day, so arriving early is key! Not only did we find the pyramids were way less crowded than later on in the day, but it was the perfect temperature. The Pyramid of the Sun is 140-feet (43-meters) high with a base measuring 426 by 511 feet (130 by 156 meters). Its the largest of the pyramids and gives you the best view from atop of the surrounding landscape and other ancient structures.

In addition to seeing the pyramids, you’ll also have the chance to explore the multi-family residential compounds, the Avenue of the Dead and the amazingly vibrant murals which reflect how bright and colourful all these structures once were. These incredible pieces of history have been incredibly well-preserved after all this time and looking at them you are blown away by the seemingly modern designs they were making thousands of years ago.

There are multiple ways to get to Teotihuacan. The most popular method is by guided tour. This was the option we chose and ended up booking a semi-private tour through Airbnb experience. You can also opt to take public transit or even schedule an Uber driver to take you to the site which is about 1 hour and 20 minutes outside the city depending on your location.

La Gruta

If you’re looking for a seat with a view, there is no other option for lunch other than ‘La Gruta’. This restaurant is located inside a prehistoric cave, just a few steps away from the Teotihuacan Pyramids. Here you will get the chance to taste delicious dishes that mix local ingredients with pre-Hispanic recipes. You also get to enjoy traditional Mexican folk dance shows while dining. Seats often book quickly, so reservations are recommended.

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There are a few smaller museums around the Pyramid sites, but I would recommend spending more time exploring the actual pyramids themselves and the areas around them. It’s incredible how much you’re allowed to climb on and venture into, and there is always something new to discover for yourself.

Day Six – Xochimilco

Xochimilco is the Venice of Mexico. It’s an enormous network of canals that spread across this southern district of Mexico City. Xochimilco means “Floating Gardens” as the Aztecs created chinampas which were artificial agricultural plots rich in minerals and there they would plant thousands of flower fields. Today, Xochimilco is UNESCO World Heritage Site as it preserves this Aztecs technology. The main pier I would advise boarding your boat from is located about 45 minutes outside the centre of town but is well, well worth the effort to get there. I have an entire guide on Xochimilco so if you want to know all the tips and tricks for visiting definitely check that out as this is just a brief overview!

Mercado Xochimilco

You’re allowed to bring whatever food and drinks you want onto the boat but if you have time to stop, check out the Mercado Xochimilco before arriving at the pier. You can load up with fresh sweet and savoury treats to enjoy on your journey!

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Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas

Be sure to arrive at the ‘Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas’. There are multiple embarcaderos, or ‘piers’, which service the canals but the Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas is the official pier to catch your boat and where you’ll find the most honest pricing.

Trajineras

The boats which run up and down the river are called ‘Trajineras’. The maximum rate set by the city is 500 pesos per hour, per boat (not per person as some tricky boatmen might quote you). You can try and haggle your way down but unless you have a good grasp on Spanish haggling, you’ll find it pretty difficult to get the rides any cheaper than 400-450 pesos per hour. It’s up to you how long you want to be on the canals but I would honestly say I wish we’d gone out for longer! Plus, the longer you go, the better chance you’ll have of striking a deal!

Food

One of the most enjoyable parts of the experience is the food. Food is available throughout the canals as you travel. Vendors with roasted corn, coconut water, fresh tacos, cold beer and spicy micheladas float up and down the canals. The prices are more than you’d pay in the market but you pay for the privilege of having them coming right to your boat!

Entertainment along the Canal

As soon as you set off into the canals, the sound of musicians playing across the waters can immediately be heard. Mariachi bands floating on their own individual boats float down the river. As they pass you by they’ll offer to board your boat and play a song or two or really as many as you want!

Songs cost about 150 pesos per number but are cheaper the more songs you want. In addition to the mariachi bands, you’ll also see various smaller boats with only 2 to 3 people playing the xylophones as they float down the canal.

Day Seven – Back Home

Since it’s your last day, it’s best to take it easy. Most flights out of Mexico City require you to be at the airport at least 3 hours early. And you have to remember traffic to the airport can add in some travel time to that as well. So best not to plan too many activities. Instead of a big activity, I would head down to Lalo! for a delicious, laid-back brunch in the Roma Norte neighbourhood.

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If you have any time left, I would recommend wandering through any park that’s close by. Parks in Mexico City are truly spectacular places. They have a certain kind of magic that you just want to soak up before leaving. Grab some street treats and take a seat on a bench to marvel at the light coming through the trees. Watch the smiling people milling about with their adorable dogs and get ready to miss everything you’ve come to love about this city.

While seven days might not be nearly enough time to see everything there is to see in Mexico City, it certainly is a great start. And trust me, after one visit, you’ll be planning your next trip as soon as you return home!

The post The Ultimate Mexico City 7-Day Itinerary to See the Sights and Soak up the Culture [UPDATED 2022] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

I asked the locals, trying to get their honest opinion. I was surprised to hear how positively even the locals, not just the tourists, spoke about it! With so many resounding responses we decided to make our way down to Xochimilco. To see what all the fuss was about. And let me just say right off the bat, it was my favourite thing we did while in Mexico City! And I would implore everyone to go and see it for themselves.

Guide to Xochimilco

1. History
2. Access
   • Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas
   • Bus to Xochimilco
   • Group Tours
3. The Trajineras
4. How Much does a Trajinera Cost?
   • Groups and Collectivos
5. Food
6. La Isla de Las Muñecas
7. Entertainment along the Canal
8. Artisans & Merchant Boats
9. Bathrooms?
10. Other Sights along the way
    • Our Experience

History

Xochimilco is the Venice of Mexico. It’s an enormous network of canals which spread across this southern district of Mexico City. There are over 170 km of canals which spread out in all different directions. Before the Spanish arrived in Mexico City, the indigenous people of Mexico had created an incredible network of canals. They used these both as a means of transport and as a way to ensure there was a constant supply of water throughout the country.

Xochimilco means “Floating Gardens” as the Aztecs filled the land with thousands of flowers and vegetation. These fields were called chinampas and were artificial agricultural plots rich in minerals. After the Spanish invasion, they dried up many of the canals in the centre of Mexico City in order to make room for modern roads. But the canals in Xochimilco remained. Today, Xochimilco is UNESCO World Heritage Site as it preserves this Aztec technology.

Access

To access Xochimilco my recommendation would be to take an Uber or find a local guide. Local guides can be both your driver as well as a local ‘fixer’ along the way. If you simply want to get an Uber there are plenty of drivers always on the road to get you there and back. The trip takes about 45 minutes depending on where you’re staying in the city. But there can be heavy traffic at peak times of day which will increase the time and cost. A one-way ride with Uber costs around $10-$15 USD but if there is heavier traffic it could be as much as $25. That’s still very cheap for a 45-minute ride but just something to keep in mind.

Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas

Be sure to arrive at the ‘Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas‘. There are multiple embarcaderos, or ‘piers’, which service the canals. But the Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas is the official pier to catch your boat and where you’ll find the most honest pricing. It’s also where you’ll find food, shopping and restrooms. If you’re taking an Uber to the pier you might find that along the way, people on bikes will stop your Uber along the way. They’ll tell you that the pier is closed and you need to access the canals through an alternative embarcadero. This is completely untrue and a scam to get you to access their alternative dock.

We asked a local if they’ve ever taken the route the bikers lead them on just to test out the scam. He said he had and was brought to a less than savoury-looking entrance. There he found only a few meagre boats which had clearly seen better days. He passed on their offer for a ride and then headed over to the Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas. Which was, of course, not closed at all!

Bus to Xochimilco

If you want to save some money you can always take the bus. The metro is another option but the bus requires only one mode of transportation. Whereas the metro requires a few transfers. Take the bus number 47-A-XAlameda Oriente towards Xochimilco / Bosque de Nativitas. It takes about an hour depending on traffic and costs 30 pesos (about $2).

Group Tours

You can also access Xochilmilco with a group tour. These are often combined with trips to the Frida Khalo Museum or the Pyramids of Teotihuacan. If you really want a huge, group party type of atmosphere then this is the best way to get it. Personally, I find these tours a little pressed for time, often rushing you around from place and to place. I like to take things at my own pace so we chose to do this on our own. But if you’re short on time and want to see all these destinations this is a great option.

The Trajineras

‘Trajinera’ is the name for the iconic brightly coloured boats which float up and down the canals. They have flat bottoms and float throughout the canals, pushed along by a long wooden ore. The boat is controlled by your rower, just like a gondolier. In the center of the boat is a large table and about a dozen chairs on either side. So you can have an entire group ride on the same boat! The covered roof is perfect for keeping the sun off on hot days. But if you want to sit out in the sunlight the front of the boat has ample room.

The boats are vibrantly painted to resemble the flowers which used to grow on either sides of the canals hundreds of years ago. Each boat is given a different name. Half the fun is looking at all the different unique names. You can even call ahead (if you have a local to help) to get your name painted onto a boat. This is perfect for birthdays, bachelorette parties or quinceaneras.

How Much does a Trajinera Cost?

Getting a Trajinera inexpensively isn’t something you should expect when you come to Xochimilco. This isn’t one of those super budget-friendly excursions. The maximum rate set by the city is 500 pesos per hour, per boat (not per person as some tricky boatmen might quote you). You can try and haggle your way down but unless you have a good grasp on Spanish haggling, you’ll find it pretty difficult. I generally go with the set price as it’s a great deal and well worth the price you pay. Remember to tip your boatman at the end of the trip! Most of the money you pay at the start goes to his boss and the actual driver sees little of that. So a nice tip will go a long way for them.

Two-hours is the minimum time you can book as the boat drivers need to make it worth their while. I would go for two or three hours since it takes a while for them to get the boats out of the dock and away from the most crowded areas. When we first went we only booked two-hours and I honestly wish we’d gone out for longer!

Groups and Collectivos

If you meet fellow travellers along your travels it’s always worth asking them if they’re interested in a trip out to Xochimilco and that way you can save a bit of money going in as a group. Just be warned that you need to arrive as a group, not just glom onto other tourists who are asking about pricing who are already at the docks. There is also the ‘collectivo’ boat. This larger motorized boat runs every half an hour and only costs 30 pesos each way. It only runs back and forth from one station to another so its a much shorter, less leisurely ride, but if you’re looking for a budget option, this is it!

Once you have secured your boat, you set out from the dock into the canal. Most of the boats are located near the pier and blocked in by dozens of other boats. I didn’t even think it would be possible for us to get out but they did it! Make your way through the field of trajineras into the open water. This felt a little bit like a giant version of bumper cars and was so interesting to watch our driver make his way through the pile of rainbow-coloured boats.

Food

You are allowed to bring whatever food and drinks you want with you on the Trajineras. Just a few minutes away from the main pier is the Mercado Xochimilco, a great place to grab some fresh snacks and delicious treats. There are also various food stalls located along the pier when you arrive at the Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas.

Depending on what day of the week you visit will change what’s open (the weekdays tend to have fewer stalls and sellers open than the weekends), but there’s always something to buy both on land and on the water. That’s right, there’s food available throughout the canals as you travel. Vendors with roasted corn, coconut water, tacos, cold beer and freshly made micheladas float up and down the canals. The prices are more than you’d pay in the market but you pay for the privilege of having them coming right to your boat!

La Isla de Las Muñecas

‘The Island of the Dolls‘ or ‘La Isla de Las Muñecas‘ is a famous attraction along these canals. You probably have seen it on Anthony Bourdain or Buzzfeed Unsolved. Many boatmen will say they’ll take you to the island in 2 hours but the truth is the real island is about 5 hours out from the main pier. There are various replicas of the island you’ll see along the main route but these are not the original. While I think a 5 hours journey might be a little much for most people, the farther out you go the more and more in touch you’ll get with the empty expanses of natural canals and yes, you’ll eventually come to the island of the dolls. Most people who really want to visit the island chose to hire a motorboat to bring them out to the island.

This place is infamous for being one of the most haunted places in Mexico City. Legend has it that the island’s caretaker daughter drowned in the canals after losing her favourite doll in the river. To honour the drowned girl’s spirit the father began collecting dolls and placing them all over the island. He began with a small altar surrounded with dolls and when he ran out of room began hanging the dolls all over the trees on the island. Being left out in the elements the dolls have begun to rot and take on a ghastly appearance. While the reproductions of the islands along the main canals aren’t the real thing, they are pretty interesting to see as you float along.

Entertainment along the Canal

As soon as we set off into the canals, the sound of musicians playing across the waters can immediately be heard. Mariachi bands floating on their own individual boats float down the river. As they pass you by they’ll offer to board your boat and play a song or two or really as many as you want! Songs cost about 150 pesos per number but are cheaper the more songs you want. We floated by and listened to various other boats with their mariachi bands and it sounded like so much fun that when one approached us we couldn’t refuse the offer.

We hired them for simply one song and asked our guide to choose his favourite tune to get played. It felt so special to have a group of almost 10 musicians board our boat and play just for us. In addition to the mariachi bands, you’ll also see various smaller boats with only 2 to 3 people playing the xylophones as they float down the canal. So much music fills these canals, then entire place feels like a giant party even in the middle of the week when we were told it would be a fairly calm day. One can only imagine has loud and exciting it would be on the weekend when this place is filled to the brim with people!

Artisans & Merchant Boats

As you float down the river people also come up to you on their boats selling various souvenirs and craft goods. You’ll see some selling embroidered blankets, others selling flower crowns inspired by the ancient flower fields. You’ll see wooden toys, traditional Mexican dolls and mini replicas of the Trajineras. While this might not be the cheapest place to buy souvenirs the experience of purchasing them on the water is pretty unique and makes for a great story.

Bathrooms?

We happily drank and ate as we floated down the river and the farther and farther out we got the more and more peaceful and quiet the canals became. When we were about an hour out from the docks, almost no boats remained with us. The canal was almost empty except for our boat and the occasional corn or drink seller. The lush trees contrasted perfectly against the bright blue sky. With all that eating and drinking you might be wondering, “how do you go to the bathroom?” Sounds like an odd question but it’s a very important one. Well, fear not! Many of the homes on the edges of the canal have installed their own public washrooms at the end of their lot.

The boats simply pull up and dock near the edge of the canal and you hop out. Most of these cost about 20 pesos but trust me when you need to go you’ll be more than happy to pay the money. They’re relatively clean but I would always recommend using hand sanitizer after using them since the water isn’t potable.

Other Sights along the way

Other things you’ll see along the canals are everything from florists to independent zoos where you can see some the amazing wildlife that lives in these rivers. A lot of these are a little bit of a tourist trap and while we didn’t see the need to go and visit them it was neat to pass them by.

Our Experience

Since we visited on Wednesday, the river was relatively calm and I could only imagine how busy it would’ve been in the weekend when hundreds and hundreds of people come here to celebrate and also just relax with their friends. Almost like an open-air park. We saw there were signs on the outside of houses along the canals selling everything from hot chocolates to coffee to fresh tacos and while most of these were closed, only open on weekends, it was still interesting to see how all the neighbours which face onto the canal have made a life serving the people of their community.

As we floated down the river we saw four boats all tied together having an enormous party. The music could be heard from miles as well as their laughter and jaunty singing. It looked like so much fun and we waved ‘hola’ to them as we passed by. They all waved back to us with huge smiles on their faces. Everyone in the canal in some way felt like family, and I loved that feeling of being surrounded by loving, happy people.

The Titanic

The name of our boat was ‘Titanic’ and our guide told us that this name had been requested by a Mexican comedy show which visited the canals a few months previously. They thought the name would be a funny one for the little skit they were filming there. It was indeed very funny and every other boat we passed would get a good chuckle as we floated past them.

I loved this trip so much and absolutely didn’t wanted to end! As the day has wore on, more and more people began to float the river and on our way back to the dock we past dozens of happening parties on their way out. We finished our day in Xochimilco with a meal by the river, so we could still enjoy watching the boats and people pass by. We ate at one of the small restaurants near the Embarcadero where they even moved a table to their outside patio just for us, it felt like a private room just for us!

All my hesitations and worries about visiting here couldn’t have been further from the truth of this magical place! While you might think it would be touristy, we saw very little tourists when visiting. It was mainly locals we saw enjoying themselves and spending time with family and friends. If you have any doubts about visiting I would push those aside and do everything you can to make it out here. It truly is something so unique to Mexico City and an adventure you won’t soon forget.

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