The Best Mexico City Neighborhoods To Visit: A Local's Guide
Centro Historico Mexico City
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Few cities are as full of energy, culture, and excitement as Mexico’s capital, Mexico City. One of the most beautiful cities in Mexico, this bustling metropolis of almost 10 million people is full of surprises and highlights found nowhere else on Earth.
At the core of its appeal are its hundreds of diverse Mexico City neighborhoods. From peaceful residential areas to the non-stop energy of its central barrios, there’s something for everyone.
You’ll get to choose from historic centers full of art, architecture, and wonder, or laid-back neighborhoods where life moves at its own pace. Regardless of where you visit, you’ll be surrounded by incredible cuisine and endless good times.
Best Mexico City Neighborhoods To Visit In 2024
Below are the best neighborhoods to visit in Mexico City. Each has its own charms and must-see highlights that keep Mexico’s bustling capital at the top of many people’s all-time favorite cities.
Centro Historico
No other neighborhood in Mexico City is as important for first-time visitors as the Centro Histórico. Start your trip where the ancient center of Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec Empire was located.
Today, the area is home to historic government buildings, ancient Aztec ruins, museums, and an almost endless amount of shops, restaurants, and bars. You can spend several days experiencing the neighborhood's sights and non-stop excitement and just scratch the surface.
Start your Mexico City itinerary with a visit to the Templo Mayor Museum. This museum is dedicated to the former Aztec main temple. Although the Spanish destroyed most of the temple, you can see its base and many of its carvings, plus walk through many of the working archeological zones.
Another must-see landmark is the towering Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral. This is one of the oldest and largest cathedrals in North America and one of Mexico City’s most recognizable sights.
From here, take a walk along the car-free Avenida Francisco I. Madero. Here, you’ll find shops, historical buildings, and plenty of excitement. Enjoy a visit to museums such as Estanquillo Museum or top-rated restaurants such as Azul Historico.
At the other end of the Centro Historico are iconic buildings such as the Palacio Postal, the House of Tiles, and the Torre Latino skyscraper. Just across the street from the Torre Latino is the opulent and world-famous Palacio de Bellas Artes, home to some of the most celebrated art and cultural performances in Mexico.
To the south, you have the city’s Chinatown. Although small, Mexico City’s Chinatown is worth visiting for authentic Chinese cuisine and unique fusion restaurants that blend the culinary traditions of both places.
For food, don’t miss the Centro Historico’s classic establishments like Los Cocuyos Tacos or Pastelería Ideal, one of the most famous places for sweets in the city.
Roma Norte
Roma-Condesa
From hip nightlife to beautiful green spaces, the Barrio Magicos or “magical neighborhoods” of Roma and Condesa are surely not to be missed. Tucked next to the sprawling Chapultepec Park, these neighborhoods feel like a world away from the sprawling city center.
At the center of these neighborhoods are their parks. Green spaces such as the circular Parque Mexico and Parque España are where locals and visitors come to cool off and relax under the lush canopies of trees.
You can find some of the city’s most popular restaurants, bars, and cafes here offering a ton of fun things to do in Mexico City at night. Within the avenues are small boutique shops, artisanal markets, and plenty of quirky small businesses to keep you busy for days.
While you’re there, don’t miss the famous food scene. Start out by experiencing some of the city’s best cafes and order specialty coffees made from Mexican coffee beans.
Next, it’s time for lunch. You can choose between highly rated restaurants such as La Capital or try one of the go-to taco restaurants such as Taquería El Califa Condesa or Taqueria El Greco.
As for nightlife, few neighborhoods are better than Roma or Condesa. From sophisticated clubs to underground local hangouts, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to party and enjoy the nightlife that puts these neighborhoods on the map. Award-winning bars such as Licorería Limantour and Baltra Bar are well worth visiting for world-class cocktails and ambiance.
Coyoacan
This charming neighborhood half an hour south of downtown is full of amazing highlights that should not be missed. From art galleries to unique food, you’ll find plenty to see and experience here.
Start your visit by walking around the Jardín Centenario, the historical center of this barrio magico. You’ll see the famous Fuente de los Coyotes, a symbol of the neighborhood's past and namesake, being named after the Nahuatl phrase ‘Place of the Coyotes.’
Walk around the plaza to see famous landmarks such as the historic Arcos del ex Convento de San Juan Bautista arches and the historic buildings surrounding the park.
Nearby, you can visit the iconic Parroquia San Juan Bautista, a baroque church that was built in the 16th century. This building is one of the oldest in the neighborhood and worth a visit, especially for anyone who loves photography or architecture.
Next, head out for some shopping and eating at the Coyoacán Market. Here, you can buy a vast array of locally crafted trinkets and goods. This is also the best place to try Coyoacan’s famous tostadas. These crispy treats have all kinds of toppings, including ceviche and rich moles.
Finally, no visit to the neighborhood is complete without wandering around the famous Frida Kahlo Museum. Make sure to book tickets ahead of time because the lines form quickly around this world-famous blue building.
Inside you’ll learn about the life and work of Frida Kahlo, one of the most famous Mexican artists of all time. Items such as the bed she painted from and her iconic wardrobe are on display here. Take your time and enjoy this unique and historical place.
The only downside to visiting Coyoacan is its distance from the city center but since Uber works in Mexico City and is safe to use, you can get here from hotels in Roma or the Centro Historico or Roma and Polanco for just a few dollars.
Polanco
Just north of Bosque de Chapultepec Park is the beautiful upscale neighborhood of Polanco. If you’re looking for Michelin-starred restaurants and some of the best shopping on the planet, Polanco will be hard to beat.
The neighborhood is home to the hugely popular Museo Nacional de Antropología. This anthropology museum is one of the best in the world and features art and artifacts spanning the entire history of Mexico.
If fine art is more your thing, don’t miss the world-famous Museo Soumaya. Inside this towering metal structure is an immense collection of fine art and sculptures. There are also large and immersive projects put on by some of the world’s greatest artists.
After seeing the neighborhood’s museums, nothing beats walking around the beautiful streets to sample its endless restaurants. If you have time and want a high-end experience, don’t miss the chance to dine at Quintonil and Pujol, two of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
At night, don’t miss out on Polanco’s nightlife. You’ll find some of the trendiest and unique cocktail bars in the city. In these award-winning places, bartenders push the boundaries of what a cocktail can taste like.
Polanco is one of the safest neighborhoods in the city, which makes it so appealing to visitors and locals alike.
Juárez and Zona Rosa
This exciting neighborhood was once one of Mexico City’s most elite residential areas. During the early 20th century, the city’s wealthy built their dream homes here because of its proximity to the giant Chapultepec Park.
The area closest to the park, known as Zona Rosa, became full of restaurants, bars, and museums. Although some buildings from the neighborhood’s early days remain abandoned, there are still plenty of beautiful buildings still standing.
A surprising section of the neighborhood is called Pequeño Seúl, or ‘Little Seoul.’ This is where generations of Korean immigrants came to set up businesses, restaurants, and cultural centers. You’ll find incredible Korean restaurants where you can get traditional and fusion-style food that feels like a world away.
Another draw to Juárez is its art museums. Small, trendy, and engaging, these spaces are truly special. On top of your list should be the wax museum Museo de Cera and the hugely popular Museo del Chocolate, a chocolate museum that’s not to be missed.
Once the sun goes down, Juárez truly comes to life. You’ll find a bar or club for everyone, including the city’s most popular and highly-rated gay bars. The popular Handshake Speakeasy was just named the 3rd best bar in the world for 2023’s The World's 50 Best Bars list.
Narvarte
Consisting of Narvarte Poniente and Oriente, Narvarte is the home of quiet streets full of art deco homes and boutique shops. This neighborhood is off the tourist trail for now, but locals have for a long time considered this neighborhood to be the place to come for foodies.
Tacos are Narvarte’s biggest draw for many people and if you want to sample some of the best in the city, you have to come here. Try establishments such as Tacos Tony, La Costilla, or Salón los Cuates for some of the best Mexican comfort food you can find.
After eating to your heart’s content, consider visiting one of the neighborhood’s lesser-known but equally impressive museums. If you love sugar art, check out the Instituto del Arte Mexicano del Azúcar. If modern art is more of your thing, visit the popular V&S Galería and see some of the best works from the neighborhood and beyond.
As for nightlife, Narvarte’s small cantinas are the places to go. Although you won’t find the party spots in other neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa, you’ll see laid-back performances from classic rock bands or musicians playing classic ranchera music.
San Rafael
Although San Rafael is often off the typical Mexico City tourist trail, it should be on everyone’s radar. With its impressive architecture, peaceful streets, and historical places, it’s little wonder why so many people are starting to come here.
First off, come here for a bite to eat in the historic Mercado San Cosme. Here, you can find some of the best tacos, tortas, and juices in the city. Walk around and you’ll find an enormous range of fruits, candies, and locally made goodies. In 2019 there was a serious fire but as of this year, it’s been remodeled and looks as good as ever.
After eating and wandering around the market, you can walk around the neighborhood to find the historic theaters such as Cine Opera that make this neighborhood so unique. San Rafael was once Mexico City’s most prominent theater district and still has a special place in the city’s performing arts culture.
San Rafael has a truly bohemian feel to it and that’s why so many people love it. If you stay for the evening, you’ll find small bars where bands and musicians come to perform for the many die-hard music fans who call this neighborhood home.
If you love art, consider checking out San Rafael’s galleries and markets. As other more popular neighborhoods become more expensive, many of the city’s artists have relocated to this up-and-coming neighborhood and made it one of the most exciting destinations for art lovers.
San Ángel
If you want to feel like you’ve traveled back in time, with cobblestone streets and the vibe of old Mexico, then San Ángel is the place to be. This small neighborhood lies southwest of downtown, well off the typical tourist path.
Here, check out the Plaza San Jacinto, a small but charming green space surrounded by restaurants and street performers. Take your time to enjoy the quiet streets and don’t forget to visit the charming local crafts market called El Bazar Sábado.
If you love art and history, San Ángel will not disappoint. Take your time visiting museums such as Museo Casa del Risco, Museum of El Carmen, and Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo.
For food, walk over to the Plaza de Carmen to try some of the best cuisine in the neighborhood. Here, pop into Mercado del Carmen to sample local comfort food and gourmet goodies before continuing your neighborhood exploration.
Final Thoughts On The Best Neighborhoods In Mexico City
Mexico City is a safe place to visit for the most part. A visit here just requires the same kind of common sense precautions as you would use in any other major city. All you have to do is stay cautious and avoid poorly lit areas if you’re walking alone at night. Still, there are certain neighborhoods that are best to avoid. These include Tepito, Doctores, and Iztapalapa.
Still, out of so many diverse and safe neighborhoods to choose from, you’ll have no problem staying safe and having the time of your life.
Accessibility In Mexico City
In Mexico City, accessibility for wheelchair users varies widely throughout the city. While some areas and newer buildings have taken steps to improve accessibility, many older parts of the city and historical sites can present significant challenges for wheelchair users. Sidewalks and streets in some areas may be uneven or lacking in curb cuts, and public transportation options like the metro can also be difficult to navigate. However, efforts have been made to improve accessibility in popular tourist areas and major attractions, with some museums, parks, and newer developments offering better accommodations for wheelchair users. It's important for travelers with mobility concerns to plan their routes carefully, seek out accessible accommodations, and consider utilizing private transportation services to navigate the city more comfortably.
Metrobus
Travel is free for disabled passengers. Facilities for people with disabilities are generally good on Metrobús routes and include:
Bus floors at the same level as the platform of the Metrobús station, facilitating wheelchair access
Special boarding gates at stations for people with disabilities, and assistance provided by staff
Ramps at stations
Elevators at stations for wheelchair users when required
Tactile paving and information panels in Braille leading into the stations
Alarms announcing the closing doors on the buses
Areas on buses for wheelchair users with accessible alarm buttons
Taxis
iCaroMovilidad is the only wheelchair-accessible taxi service in the Mexico City area. All vehicles have a ramp in the back and wheelchair tie-downs and a seatbelt for the rider. Service can be arranged by calling: 011 52 55 82.2020.00
Metro
Facilities for people with disabilities are admittedly very limited. There are no elevators in stations, though many stations have escalators to the platform level, and there are no ramps to help wheelchair users get into trains (although it is important to note in most trains the floor of the carriages are at the same level as the platforms and gaps between trains and stations are very small). Also, it is sometimes necessary to walk a long distance when changing lines.
Find out about the services available for people with disabilities
Author Bio
Melissa Douglas is a British Travel Writer based in Mexico. She has over 7 years of experience in writing for global travel media and manages the website Mexico Travel Secrets where she encourages people to venture off the beaten path in Mexico.
