Mexico City is enormous, so plan each day around one area to avoid hours in traffic.
Day 1: The Centro Histórico
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| Morning | The Zócalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Templo Mayor. |
| Afternoon | Madero Street, the Casa de los Azulejos and the Palacio de Bellas Artes. |
| Evening | The view from the Torre Latinoamericana, then dinner in the Centro. |
Day 2: Chapultepec and Polanco
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| Morning | Chapultepec Castle and the park. |
| Afternoon | The National Museum of Anthropology (allow 3 hours). |
| Evening | Dinner in Polanco. |
Day 3: Coyoacán and Xochimilco
Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum (timed ticket), then wander Coyoacán’s plazas and market. In the afternoon, ride a trajinera at Xochimilco.
Day 4: Teotihuacan
Leave early to beat the heat and the crowds at the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon. See the Teotihuacan day trip guide.
Day 5: Roma, Condesa and lucha libre
Brunch, cafés and Parque México, plus the Mercado de Medellín. In the evening, catch lucha libre at Arena México with a group or tour.
Itinerary tips
- Avoid Mondays for museums, because many are closed.
- Use Uber or DiDi between areas, especially at night.
- Book Teotihuacan and food tours ahead.
- Choose your base from where to stay in Mexico City.
For events, opening hours and official visitor information, see Visit Mexico, the official tourism site.
More Mexico City guides
- Mexico City travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Mexico City
- Where to stay in Mexico City
- Teotihuacan day trip from Mexico City
- Mexico City Airport to the city
- Best time to visit Mexico City
FAQ: Mexico City itinerary
Is 3 days enough in Mexico City?
Three days covers the Centro, Chapultepec and the museum, and Coyoacán with Xochimilco. Add a fourth day for Teotihuacan.
Can I combine Mexico City with Cancún?
Yes. It’s about a 2.5-hour flight. See our Cancún guide.
What’s the best day for Xochimilco?
Weekends are lively and festive, while weekdays are calmer and cheaper.
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