Day 1: Centro Histórico and the Heart of CDMX

—Morning: Zócalo and Templo Mayor

Begin at the Zócalo, one of the largest public plazas in the world. Arrive early (around 8 AM) to watch the flag-raising ceremony and beat the crowds. From here, walk to the Templo Mayor, the excavated ruins of the main Aztec temple. The adjacent museum provides essential context for understanding Mexico's pre-Hispanic civilizations—don't skip it.

—Midday: Palacio de Bellas Artes
Head northwest along Avenida Madero, a pedestrian street lined with street performers and historic buildings. Your destination is the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes, an art nouveau masterpiece that houses murals by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and José Clemente Orozco. Even if you don't go inside, the building itself is worth photographing.

—Afternoon: Torre Latinoamericana and Street Food
For panoramic views of the city, take the elevator to the observation deck of Torre Latinoamericana. Then refuel with authentic street food—try tacos de canasta (basket tacos) from a street vendor or sit down at a traditional cantina for botanas (snacks) with your drinks.

—Evening: Casa de los Azulejos
End your day at Casa de los Azulejos (House of Tiles), a gorgeous 18th-century palace covered in blue and white Talavera tiles. Now home to a Sanborns restaurant, it's a beautiful spot for coffee or dinner in the covered courtyard.

Day 2: Chapultepec and Polanco – Culture Meets Contemporary

—Morning: Bosque de Chapultepec

Bosque de Chapultepec is more than a park—it's an 1,695-acre urban forest that rivals Central Park in both size and cultural significance. Arrive when it opens at 5 AM if you want to see locals jogging and practicing tai chi, or come at 9 AM to start your museum marathon.

—Late Morning: Museo Nacional de Antropología
The Museo Nacional de Antropología is non-negotiable for first-time visitors. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here exploring the world's most comprehensive collection of Mesoamerican artifacts, including the famous Aztec Sun Stone. Pro tip: Hire a guide at the entrance or download an audio tour to truly appreciate what you're seeing.

—Afternoon: Chapultepec Castle
After lunch at the museum's restaurant, walk up the hill to Chapultepec Castle, the only royal castle in North America. The views of Paseo de la Reforma from the terrace are spectacular, and the interior showcases Mexican history from the colonial period through the French intervention.

—Evening:  Polanco
Cross into Polanco, Mexico City's most elegant neighborhood. Stroll along Avenida Presidente Masaryk (often called the "Rodeo Drive of Mexico City") and explore Parque Lincoln, a charming neighborhood park with an aviary and weekend art market. Dinner options here range from traditional Mexican at Pujol to contemporary Japanese at Rokai.

Day 3: Coyoacán and Xochimilco – Bohemian Soul and Floating Gardens

—Morning: Coyoacán

Take an Uber or the metro to Coyoacán, the charming colonial neighborhood that feels more like a small town than part of a megacity. Start at the Jardín Centenario, where you can grab a café de olla (spiced coffee) and people-watch beneath ancient trees.

—Late Morning: Museo Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul)
The highlight of Coyoacán is undoubtedly the Museo Frida Kahlo, the vivid blue house where the artist was born, lived, and died. Book your tickets online weeks in advance—this is one of Mexico City's most visited attractions. Nearby, you can also visit the Leon Trotsky Museum, where the exiled Soviet revolutionary was assassinated.

—Afternoon: Xochimilco
After lunch at the Mercado de Coyoacán (try the tostadas de pata or quesadillas), head to Xochimilco for one of CDMX's most unique experiences. Here, you'll board a colorful trajinera (gondola-style boat) and float through canals that date back to pre-Hispanic times. Mariachi bands on neighboring boats will serenade you, and vendors in canoes will sell you everything from corn on the cob to flower crowns. Go with a group and bring your own food and drinks to make it a fiesta.

—Evening:  San Ángel
If you still have energy, stop in the neighboring San Ángel district on your way back north. This cobblestoned neighborhood is home to the beautiful Museo de El Carmen and excellent restaurants like San Ángel Inn, set in a former hacienda.

Day 4: Roma and Condesa –

Your Last Day in Style

—Morning: Roma Norte

Start with breakfast at one of Roma's famous cafés—Café de Tacuba for traditional or Lalo! for Instagram-worthy chilaquiles. Then explore the tree-lined streets of Roma Norte, admiring the art deco and art nouveau architecture. Don't miss Plaza Río de Janeiro with its replica of Michelangelo's David, or the stunning Casa Lamm cultural center.

—Late Morning: Food and Markets
Foodies should make a pilgrimage to Mercado Medellín, where you'll find ingredients from across Latin America and some of the best tortas in the city. Roma is also home to many of Mexico City's most acclaimed restaurants if you're planning a special lunch.

—Afternoon: Condesa
Cross into La Condesa and stroll along Avenida Amsterdam, a tree-lined oval that follows the route of an old horse-racing track. Grab an artisanal ice cream from Helado Obscuro and find a bench in Parque México, where you'll see everything from dog walkers to yoga classes to impromptu concerts.

—Evening:  The Angel of Independence
End your trip at El Ángel, the golden victory column that has become Mexico City's most iconic landmark. Time your visit for sunset, when the light is perfect for photos. From here, you can walk along Paseo de la Reforma, imagining yourself returning to this incredible city again soon.

Final Tips for First-Time Mexico City Visitors