Mexico City is becoming a more popular tourist destination each and every year, especially amongst school leavers and gap year travelers. The reputations of Mexico City’s past are disappearing and far more people are now appreciating the capital for the forward thinking, cosmopolitan metropolis that it really is. No matter what it is that you are looking for in a destination, with the exception of the beach, Mexico City has it all.
It terms of a city which you can explore, it doesn’t get much better than the Mexican capital and here are 5 awesome things to do during your time there.
Hit a Tianguis
The Mexican food is absolutely amazing and after just a few hours in the country you will quickly realize that the Tex-Mex variety which we have in the States, is far different from the local Mexican cuisine. Mexico City does have a wide range of options across the city which accommodates those looking for international options, as well as those who have more specific requirements such as vegan food. The best food in my opinion though, is found with the street sellers and if you want the real experience then hit a Tianguis. A tianguis is a pop up market which usually features a wide range of true Mexican food, cooked by passionate vendors, right in front of your eyes.
Visit Teotihuacan
Many people are unaware that just outside Mexico City is the eighth largest pyramid in the World, set on an archaeological complex in the ancient city of Teotihuacan. This city, over the years, has been occupied by both Mayans and Aztecs and the complex is a must visit place. Here you will find 2 pyramids, the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, as well as one of the best preserved ancient cities in the World. Teotihuacan is just an hour out of Mexico City and a fantastic location for history buffs and travelers alike.
Visit Zocalo
Zocalo is the historic center of Mexico City and a great place to spend a day, drinking in the culture both new and old. At the heart of the area is Plaza de la Constitucion, the main square where many events take place, political and cultural. Close to the square you will find the Palacio de Correos which is arguably one of the finest post office’s which has ever been built. In this region you will find pedestrian only streets, Mexican music playing in the alleys as well as the ornate and intricately designed Palacio de Bellas Artes theater.
Xochimilco
What many people don’t know is that Mexico City was once a vast network of canals and the city itself is actually built on these waterways. In the south of the city you can see how things used to be and take a trip on one of the brightly colored boats across the canals in an area called Xochimilco. If you are traveling with friends then you can turn this into a part on the water and take your own food and drink as you float through the canal networks which still exist.
If you are planning on traveling through Mexico then you should plan at least five or six days in the capital, it is a great place to explore and there is a great deal of things to do.