Mexico City
CDMX is massive — 21 million people massive — but the neighborhoods tourists actually visit are surprisingly walkable. Condesa and Roma have tree-lined streets full of cafes, and tacos al pastor from a street stand at midnight might be the best meal of your life (for about 15 pesos each). The metro costs 5 pesos and gets you everywhere, though it's crushingly packed at rush hour. You're at 2,240m altitude so you might feel a bit winded on day one. Uber works great here.
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Mexico City travel FAQ
How many days do I need in Mexico City?
4–5 days minimum — it's huge. Day 1: Centro Histórico, Zócalo, Templo Mayor. Day 2: Chapultepec Park and the Anthropology Museum (easily half a day just there). Day 3: Coyoacán and the Frida Kahlo Museum (book tickets online in advance, they sell out). Day 4: Just walk Roma and Condesa, eat everything. Day 5: Teotihuacán day trip — take the bus from Terminal Norte (1 hour, under 100 pesos), go early to beat the crowds and the midday sun.
Is Mexico City safe for tourists?
The tourist areas — Roma, Condesa, Polanco, Coyoacán, Centro Histórico — are generally safe and well-policed. Use Uber instead of hailing random cabs (app-based taxis are much safer). Don't flash expensive stuff and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods. The metro is fine during the day but can feel sketchy late. Most visitors have zero issues — just use the same street smarts you'd use in any big city like New York or London.
What street food should I try in Mexico City?
Tacos al pastor — pork carved off a vertical spit with pineapple on top, 15–20 pesos each, the thing CDMX is famous for. Tlacoyos (stuffed blue corn cakes) from market vendors. Tamales from the ladies selling them on street corners every morning. Elote (grilled corn slathered with mayo, chili, and cheese). Churros from El Moro — open since 1935, there's always a line but it moves fast. Rule of thumb: if a street stand has a long line of locals, that's your spot.