My visit to Mexico City was based at the wonderful historic center. I arrived late the first night and headed out to explore, surprised to find live music playing in street corners accompanied by locals causally dancing in the streets, street performers, lots of local cantinas serving cheap drinks, and a bunch of Mariachis roaming around between costumers singing to everyone and making for a very happy atmosphere. The next morning, I did an extended route around the historic center and there was so much to see. Big squares, large old cathedrals, ancient ruins, cultural and historical museums, opera houses, shopping area malls, great restaurants and coffee shops, green parks, lively local markets, folk dances, and much more. That small area of maybe 2 square kilometers seems to have it all.
Frommer’s has a good walking route that covers all the main sites of the historic center and the area, but you might just want to try roaming around and getting lost a bit.
That first day in Mexico City was the beginning of a week long realization that Mexico City is a true world city, a tourist delight, filled with potential and opportunity. Had I known, I would have started my explorations of Mexico much sooner.
Mexico City historic center at night time
Mexico City historic center at day time
See the Mexican dance in this video:
Location:
If you’re a first timer in Mexico City, I’d recommend getting a hotel or B&B somewhere close to the historic center, it will make accessibility to atleast 50% of the main tourist sites much easier. Enjoy Mexico City!