Mexico City holidays

How to reach Mexico City

• Flight time: Direct flights to Mexico City from London take around 11 to 12 hours.

• Transfer time: After landing at Mexico City’s Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX), the journey to the city centre typically takes 30 to 45 minutes by taxi or private transfer.

• Price: A taxi from the airport to central Mexico City costs around 250 to 400 Mexican pesos (MXN). The Metro, a cheaper alternative, is just 5 MXN, but it can be crowded and less than ideal with heavy luggage.

Best time to visit Mexico City

Choosing the best time of year for your Mexico City holidays depends largely on your preferences for weather and sightseeing.

• March to May: Considered the high season, this period offers pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C in the early morning to 25°C in the afternoon. Expect around 8–10 hours of sunshine each day.

• June to October: Known as the rainy season, average temperatures at this time of year range from 15°C to 22°C, with up to 160mm of rainfall in the wettest months. The city is less crowded and hotel prices tend to drop, making it an attractive time for budget-conscious travellers. Expect 7–8 hours of sunshine a day.

• November to February: During the dry season, temperatures range from a crisp 7°C in the mornings to a comfortable 21°C during the day. Rain is minimal, with less than 10mm monthly, and 6–7 hours of sunshine.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: Tipping is customary, with 10–15 percent expected in restaurants and for services like taxis and hotel staff.

• Health and safety: Mexico City is relatively safe for tourists, but it's wise to stay vigilant. Avoid displaying valuable items openly, particularly in crowded areas. Tap water isn't safe to drink, so always opt for bottled.

• Currency: The Mexican peso is the local currency, but US dollars are also widely accepted. It’s a good idea to carry some pesos for smaller purchases. ATMs are plentiful in tourist areas, but be aware of international withdrawal fees.

• Getting around: Mexico City has an extensive public transportation system, including the Metro, buses and taxis. A single Metro journey costs 5 MXN, making it one of the most affordable ways to get around. Buses are also inexpensive, but routes can be confusing for non-Spanish speakers. Authorised taxi services and ride-sharing apps like Uber are also available.

• Electricity and plug types: Mexico uses Type A and B plugs, with a standard voltage of 127V. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Mexico City operates on Central Standard Time (CST), which is 6 hours behind GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 180 days. However, you’ll need a valid passport and will be given a tourist card (FMM) upon arrival, which you must keep until departure.

Local dishes in Mexico City

One of the joys of holidays to Mexico City is diving into its diverse and flavourful culinary scene.

Some typical dishes

• Mole Poblano: A rich and complex sauce made from a blend of chillies, chocolate and spices, often served over chicken.

• Chiles en Nogada: A seasonal dish featuring large poblano chillies stuffed with a mixture of minced meat, fruit and spices, topped with a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds.

• Tamales: A slow-roasted pork dish marinated in achiote and sour orange, then wrapped in banana leaves and cooked until tender.

Meat dishes

• Tacos al Pastor: A beloved Mexican street food, these tacos are made with spit-roasted pork, pineapple, onions and coriander, all piled onto a soft corn tortilla. They’re a delicious and affordable snack that’s perfect for eating on the go.

• Barbacoa: Traditionally slow-cooked lamb or goat, wrapped in agave leaves and cooked in an underground pit. The meat is tender and flavourful, often served with tortillas and a side of consomé.

• Carnitas: Another beloved meat dish, carnitas are made by slow-cooking pork in its own fat until it’s tender and juicy. They’re perfect for filling tacos or tortas (Mexican sandwiches).

Street food

• Tlayudas: A popular street food from Oaxaca that’s found its way to Mexico City, this large, crisp tortilla is topped with refried beans, cheese, lettuce, avocado and your choice of meat, then folded and grilled.

• Elotes: Grilled corn on the cob, slathered with mayonnaise, cheese, chilli powder and lime juice. It’s a messy but mouth-watering treat which you’ll find at food stalls around the city.

• Tlacoyos: These thick, oval-shaped corn masa cakes are stuffed with beans, cheese or chicharrón (fried pork skin). They’re topped with nopales (cactus), salsa and cheese.

Sweets and desserts

• Churros con Chocolate: Crispy, fried dough sticks dusted with sugar and cinnamon, served with a cup of thick, rich hot chocolate for dipping. They’re a popular treat for breakfast or as an evening snack.

• Dulce de Leche: Known locally as Cajeta, this sweet, caramel-like sauce made from goat’s milk is often used as a filling for pastries or drizzled over desserts.

Local drinks

• Tequila: No visit to Mexico City would be complete without sampling tequila, Mexico’s most famous spirit. Made from the blue agave plant, it’s often enjoyed neat or in a margarita.

• Mezcal: Similar to tequila but with a smokier flavour, mezcal is another popular agave-based spirit. Sip it slowly to appreciate its complex flavours.

Best things to do in Mexico City

From ancient pyramids to cutting-edge contemporary art, there’s something here for every kind of traveller during your holidays to Mexico City.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• El Ángel de la Independencia: This iconic golden angel stands proudly on Paseo de la Reforma and offers panoramic views of the city. Climb the spiral staircase inside for breathtaking panoramas.

• Torre Latinoamericana: Once the tallest building in Latin America, this skyscraper’s observation deck provides stunning views over the historic centre.

• Chapultepec Castle: Perched atop Chapultepec Hill, this former royal residence offers sweeping views of both the park and the city skyline.

The best districts

• Centro Histórico: The beating heart of Mexico City, the historic centre is where you’ll find iconic landmarks like the Zócalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Templo Mayor.

• Roma and Condesa: Known for their leafy streets, cafés and Art Deco architecture, these neighbouring districts are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

• Coyoacán: A bohemian enclave that was once home to Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, Coyoacán is a district of colourful streets, artisanal markets and charming squares. Don’t miss the chance to visit La Casa Azul, Frida Kahlo’s former home.

Parks and gardens

• Bosque de Chapultepec: This enormous urban park is one of the largest in the world. It’s home to the Chapultepec Zoo and the world-renowned Museo Nacional de Antropología.

• Parque México: Located in the Condesa neighbourhood, this Art Deco-inspired park is perfect for a relaxing afternoon, with fountains, dog parks and a beautiful aviary.

• Xochimilco: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Xochimilco’s canals are a must-see. Hire a colourful trajinera (a traditional flat-bottomed boat) and enjoy a leisurely ride through the floating gardens.

Historic monuments

• Palacio de Bellas Artes: This opulent cultural centre is one of the most spectacular buildings in Mexico City. The interior is just as impressive, with murals by Diego Rivera and an Art Nouveau theatre that hosts performances ranging from opera to ballet.

• Zócalo and the Metropolitan Cathedral: The Zócalo, or Plaza de la Constitución, is Mexico City’s main square and one of the largest squares in the world. It’s surrounded by historic buildings, including the grand Metropolitan Cathedral – the largest and oldest cathedral in Latin America.

• Templo Mayor: Discover the ancient roots of Mexico City at this archaeological site in the historic centre. The ruins of the Templo Mayor, once the main temple of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlán, provide a fascinating glimpse into pre-Hispanic history.

Day trips in the area

• Teotihuacán: Just an hour’s drive from Mexico City, the ancient city of Teotihuacán is home to some of the most impressive pyramids in the world, including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon.

• Puebla: A two-hour journey from Mexico City, Puebla is known for its stunning colonial architecture and delicious cuisine, especially the famous mole poblano. It’s also close to the Great Pyramid of Cholula – the largest pyramid by volume in the world.

• Taxco: This picturesque silver-mining town, with its winding cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings, is nestled in the mountains of Guerrero, approximately three hours away from Mexico City.

Activities for families in Mexico City

Mexico City is a family-friendly destination with a wide variety of activities that both kids and adults will enjoy.

• Parks and gardens: Take the family to Chapultepec Park, where you can explore the zoo, visit the museums or simply enjoy a picnic. The park’s lakes are perfect for boat rides, and there are plenty of playgrounds for younger children.

• Interactive museums: The Papalote Children’s Museum is a fantastic place for kids to learn through play, with interactive exhibits focused on science, technology and culture. Another great option is the Museo de Historia Natural, where families can explore exhibits on Mexico’s natural history.

• Aquariums: Acuario Inbursa, located in the upscale Polanco district, is home to a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays and jellyfish. It’s a great indoor activity for a rainy day.

Free things to do in Mexico City

With plenty of activities that won’t cost you a penny, it’s easy to enjoy your holidays to Mexico City on a budget.

• Free events: The city is brimming with free cultural events, particularly in the historic centre. During Día de los Muertos in October, the city’s streets come alive with parades and colourful altars.

• Free museums: The Museo del Templo Mayor is free on Sundays for residents and visitors alike. The Museo Soumaya in Polanco, which houses a vast collection of art, is always free to enter.

• Explore by public transport: Hop on the Metro for an affordable way to explore the city. Line 2 takes you to key sights such as the Zócalo, Bellas Artes and Chapultepec Park, all for just 5 MXN per ride.