The diversity in occurrences is one of the first things that brought me to Mexico City. Its lively energy held me there for approximately six months.
At that time, I found it improbable to see and do everything I had expected to. Nevertheless, you can experience a great deal within a brief period due to the closeness of many major attractions in Mexico City.
It’s an intoxicating, exciting, and culturally-rich region with a largely mistaken reputation. Though stories of crime and violence have warded off some tourists, the people who go are keen to tell you that it is one of their preferred destinations in the world. Like any big city, chaos is possible for those who seek it, but the largest tourist areas are comparatively safe attracting roughly 40,000 visitors each year.
The Zócalo
Not only is a visit to the historic Zócalo, or central plaza, a conventional induction to the city, but it will assist you to get your pertinence and discover plenty of nearby attractions and delights. Also recognized as the Plaza de la Constitución, it’s home to the National Palace, the legendary Metropolitan Cathedral, and various other historic federal buildings.
Ruins of Templo Mayor
Though surprising, Templo Mayor displayed one of my favorite places to visit in the city. Seasoned just behind the Zòcalo, these vestiges are what is remaining of the ancient Aztec city, Tenochtitlán. Phases of building as leaders changed over the ages can be viewed, a bizarre feature not easily seen at many other pre-hispanic archaeological sites. Original carvings maintain some of their vibrant colors.
Museums, museums, and more museums!
With over 150 museums, Mexico City is a Mecca for antiquity buffs, art and history enthusiasts, and anyone yearning to learn a bit more about Mexico, the world, innovative notions, and perhaps about themselves too. Though the list of extraordinary offerings is long, The National Museum of Anthropology is a top pick.
Chapultepec Forest
The hustle and bustle of the city can get a little unbelievable at times. Fit on tour to Chapultepec Forest conveniently placed to midtown and Condesa. One of the world’s most populous urban parks, it crosses 450 acres and produces numerous enjoyment options.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
Palacio de Bellas Artes gets the cake for remarkable architecture. In springtime, the purplish jacarandas bloom for an extraordinary sight. But any time of the year, Palacio de Bellas Artes presents a magnificent ambience at golden hour.
Xochimilco
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Xochimilco is a southerly barrio attempting one of the most quintessential adventures in the city. Xochimilco includes a large system of old-fashioned canals that works as a major farming center for the region. Companies can ride on the traditional, but now touristy brilliantly painted boats, or trajineras, through the canals.
Sunday Lagunilla Flea Market
Hands down, my preferred place to shop in Mexico City. If you haven’t previously booked your trip, plan to be in the city on a Sunday so you can attend this epic old-fashioned flea market.