Mexico City is one of the world's largest cities in the world. Not many people talk about the city, but it should be on your bucket list for places to travel to. Its history is remarkable and there are many sites throughout the city you must check out.
1. Zocalo(Plaza de la Constitución): Centro Historico
Surrounded by historical landmarks and sites, this is the heart of Mexico City. It’s one of the world’s largest city squares measuring at 220m from north to south and 240m from east to west. The area is very lively with families strolling around, kids playing, souvenir and food vendors, and Aztec dancers. A huge Mexican flag flies in the center of the Zocalo. The zocalo and the historical buildings that surround it are a must see during Mexican Independence Day celebrations which occur on September 16th, also known as “Fiestas Patrias”.
Metropolitan Cathedral: Located on the north side of the Zocalo, the cathedral took 240 years to build. Ground broke in 1573 and was fully completed in 1813. It contains 16 chapels, each dedicated to a saint. The 2 bell bell towers contain 25 bells. A must see!
Palacio Nacional: Located on the east side of the Zocalo, the Palacio Nacional is the seat of the federal executive. It was the home all Viceroys that ruled New Spain. It became the home of the President once again when Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador won the presidency in 2018. Since 1937, the President’s lived at Los Pinos.
Old City Hall: Located on the south side of the Zocalo, the 1st city hall was built between 1526-1532. It was built as a fortress against the Indians, who were not allowed to settle in the area. The building was destroyed in 1692 due to an uprising and was reconstructed in 1724. Today, it’s the seat of the Distrito Federal.
2. Palacio de Bellas Artes: Centro Historico
The Palacio de Bellas Artes (or Palace of Fine Arts) is a popular and fabulous cultural center that has hosted some of the most notable events in music, dance, theatre, opera and has been called the Cathedral of Art in Mexico. The building is best known for its murals by Diego Rivera.
3. Hemiciclo de Juárez: Centro Historico
Neoclassical marble monument with statues commemorating former Mexican president Benito Juárez.
4. Plaza Rio de Janeiro: Colonia Roma
In the old heart of the neighborhood is the Plaza Rio de Janeiro, originally called Parque Roma. In the center of the plaza is a fountain and a replica of Michelangelo’s David.
5. Coyoacan: Coyoacan
The name comes from Nahuatl meaning “the place of coyotes”. The neighborhood is rich in art and history with amazing restaurants and cafes as well. Before you leave, check out the coyote fountain, showing 2 coyotes drinking water at Jardin Centenario.
6. Teotihuacán: San Juan Teotihuacán
Known as the “City of Gods”, Teotihuacan is an archeological site which includes the stunning Mesoamerican pyramids built during the Pre-Columbian era. It’s located about 40km from Mexico City and it’s a perfect day trip to explore the archeological site.
Teotihuacan Blog Post:
Youtube Video:
7. Xochimilco: Xochimilco
Xochimilco is one of the 16 boroughs of Mexico City located in the south, mostly popular for its trajineras(boats) which cruise around through the canals. It’s a major tourist destination and an excellent place to visit for a day trip.
Xochimilco Blog Post:
Youtube Video:
8. Estadio Azteca: Tlalpan
Estadio Azteca is the official home of football club Club America and Mexico’s National Football team. It’s one of the world’s most famous stadiums that's hosted both the World Cup and the Summer Olympic Games. Depending on who’s playing, football games can get a little bit rowdy.
Youtube Video:
Stadium Page:
9. The Angel of Independence: Juarez
Known as the "Monument to Independence" and "El Angel", it's a victory column located on Paseo de la Reforma. It was built in 1910 to commemorate the centennial of the beginning of Mexico's War on Independence. An excellent way to see this is by going on a Sunday, between 8am-2pm when the city shuts down Paseo de la Reforma for people to bike, jog, or walk.
