72 Hours in Mexico City

There are many reasons to go to Mexico beyond the desire to sit on a beach and drink a piña colada. Whether you seek culture, history, or food, Mexico City has it all. And as one of the largest cities in the world population wise, it is no surprise that Mexico City has the most museums in any city, world wide. Make sure you have access to data on your phone, as uber is a cheap and easy way to get around this huge place. While safety is something to be aware of, by sticking to the right neighborhoods and trusting your intuition (along with using city smarts relevant anywhere) you’ll have a fine time. As far as accommodation goes, all the neighborhoods we mention below will suit just fine. Now get your walking shoes ready, and enjoy the trip!

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The rooftop of Chapultepec Castle

Friday:

You’ll want to hit the ground running on your first day, spending the day in Polanco and the nearby Chapultepec Park. Start out with breakfast or brunch at Acacia, DulcineaMarche Dumas or Maque. Then walk over to the park and start out with the Chapultepec Castle. You’ll be treated to gorgeous gardens and views of Mexico City from the top- do note that there won’t be any english signage so either read up in advance, or hire a private guide. Once you’ve taken in the castle, you have all of the museums in the park to choose from. Our top choices are the Modern Art Museum, the contemporary art Tamayo Museum, and of course, the National Anthropology Museum. All tickets can be booked upon arrival, and whether you prefer to hire an english speaking guide is up to you. The Anthropology Museum does have english signage available. Once you’ve tired yourself out, head to Juan Valdez or Pendulo for coffee and a break, or stroll down Reforma for more sculptures and art. Finish up your day with dinner at Porco Rosso or make reservations far in advance to dine at Pujol (as featured on Chef’s Table).

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The gardens at the San Angel Inn

Saturday: 

As all museums are free to citizens on Sundays, you’ll want to get in the rest of your museum viewings on Saturday. Have breakfast in Coyocan at Aleli or Eric Kayser, so that you’re located near the Frida Kahlo Museum. You’ll want to book your tickets in advance and arrive a little before it 10am when it opens, to avoid waiting in line. Once you’ve finished the experience, uber over to the beautiful and historic San Angel Inn for lunch. After lunch, stroll around the Inn’s gardens before heading over to Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera’s connected homes, just across the street from the inn. If you’re up for more, uber over to the Palacio de Bellas Artes or take some down time at the incredible Vasconcelos Library. Have dinner at La Pitahaya or Azul Historico, and after dinner drinks at the house of the mermaids.

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Mercado Roma

Sunday: 

Your final day will be the day to soak in the neighborhoods of La Condesa and Roma. Get coffee and a pastry at Cafe Aimee before strolling around Amsterdam Avenue and Parque Mexico. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Mercado Roma for food, gifts, and coffee, or to Lalo! for lunch. Wander around the neighborhood for street art and boutiques, or check out the (San Francisco related) Fifty24MX gallery. Spend the rest of your afternoon on tour with the Traveling Beetle, or get some ice cream at Cold Beat. Have dinner at YubanYuban or Temporal before preparing yourself for your journey home!

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About the Author // Eliza Dropkin is a Vantigo Tour Guide. She enjoys live music, good food, and cruising around town in Jerry (though she loves all the vans equally).

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