Mexico City Things To See

Mexico City is the largest city in North America and is the capital of Mexico. It is an incredibly vibrant and diverse city that is bursting with culture and flavor, and is a must-see for any traveler. With a history that dates back to the Aztecs and Spanish conquistadors, Mexico City has a unique and storied past that continues to influence its culture and architecture today.

The city is home to over 20 million people and is Mexico’s economic and cultural hub. There are many things to do and see in Mexico City, from the iconic Zocalo, to the impressive Teotihuacan pyramids, and the lively nightlife of the Condesa neighborhood. This guide will provide an overview of the best things to see and do in Mexico City, so that you can get the most out of your visit.

History Of Mexico City

Mexico City has been inhabited since the early days of the Aztec Empire, when it was known as Tenochtitlan. It was founded by the Aztec people in 1325, who built an impressive city on the wetlands of Lake Texcoco. Tenochtitlan was the largest city in what is now Mexico, and was at the center of an expansive empire that dominated much of Mesoamerica.

In 1521, the Spanish conquistadors, led by Hernán Cortés, arrived in Tenochtitlan and conquered it after a long and bloody siege. The city was completely destroyed, but it was quickly rebuilt by the Spanish as their own capital city. They renamed it Ciudad de México (Mexico City), and it served as the seat of Spanish power in Mexico until Mexican independence in 1821.

During this period, Mexico City underwent a period of rapid growth and development, and many of its iconic buildings were built during this time, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts), and the National Palace. Since then, Mexico City has continued to grow and evolve, becoming one of the most important cities in Latin America.

Things To Do In Mexico City

Mexico City is a vibrant and exciting city with a wealth of things to do and see. Here are some of the best attractions:

Zocalo

The Zocalo is one of the most iconic sights in Mexico City. It is a large public square located in the heart of downtown that is surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and the Templo Mayor (Great Temple). The Zocalo has been a focal point for public gatherings since it was first established by the Aztecs in 1325. Today, it is still a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike, who come to take photographs or just take in the atmosphere.

Museo Nacional de Antropología

The Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Museum of Anthropology) is one of Mexico City’s most famous museums. Located in Chapultepec Park, it houses an impressive collection of artifacts from ancient Mexican cultures, including Aztec and Mayan civilizations. The museum also features a large collection of pre-Columbian artworks and other artifacts, making it a must-see for anyone interested in Mexico’s history and culture.

Chapultepec Park

Chapultepec Park is one of the largest urban parks in Latin America and is home to many of Mexico City’s most popular attractions. The park covers an area of over 1,700 acres (700 hectares) and includes a lake, several gardens, a zoo, and various museums, such as the National Museum of Anthropology. It is also home to Chapultepec Castle, which was once home to Emperor Maximilian I. Chapultepec Park is a great place to spend a day exploring nature and culture, while also taking in some stunning views of the city skyline.

Teotihuacan Pyramids

The Teotihuacan Pyramids are one of Mexico’s most iconic sights. Located just outside of Mexico City, these ancient pyramids were built by an unknown civilization around 2,000 years ago. The most impressive structure is the Pyramid of the Sun, which stands over 200 feet (60 meters) tall and provides stunning views of the surrounding area. Other important structures include the Pyramid of the Moon and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl. A visit to this impressive archaeological site is a must for any traveler visiting Mexico City.

Coyoacan

Coyoacan is a charming neighborhood located in southern Mexico City. It was once an independent village but was absorbed by Mexico City in the late 19th century. Today, Coyoacan is known for its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, as well as its many cafes and restaurants. It is also home to some important historic sites, such as Frida Kahlo’s house and Leon Trotsky’s house (now a museum). A visit to Coyoacan is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Mexico City and experience some local life.

Condesa Neighborhood

The Condesa neighborhood is located in central Mexico City and is known for its lively nightlife scene. The area is filled with bars and restaurants, many with outdoor seating areas where you can enjoy some drinks or a meal while taking in some great views of the city skyline. There are also many shops and boutiques where you can find unique items from local designers. The Condesa neighborhood is one of the best places to experience Mexico City’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Popular Tours In Mexico City

Mexico City offers many exciting tours that allow visitors to experience its culture and history firsthand. Here are two popular tours that you can book during your visit:

Aztec Temples & Ruins Tour

This tour takes visitors on a journey through time as they explore some of Mexico’s most important archaeological sites. The tour begins with a visit to Teotihuacan, where visitors will explore the ancient pyramids and learn about their significance to Aztec culture. The tour then continues on to other important sites such as Tlatelolco and Tenochtitlan before ending at Chapultepec Park for lunch. This tour provides a great opportunity to learn more about Mexico’s past while exploring some incredible archaeological sites. Book an Aztec Temples & Ruins Tour here.

National Palace & Zocalo Tour

This tour provides an up-close look at some of Mexico City’s most iconic sights. It begins with a visit to the National Palace, where visitors can explore its impressive interiors and learn more about Mexican history. The tour then continues on to the Zocalo where visitors can admire some incredible architecture while learning more about its significance to Mexican culture. The tour then ends with a visit to La Ciudadela market where visitors can purchase souvenirs or sample some local snacks. Book a National Palace & Zocalo Tour here.

Conclusion

Mexico City has something for everyone – from beautiful parks and ancient ruins to lively bars and delicious restaurants – making it one of the most interesting cities in Latin America. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or something more active, there’s no shortage of things to do in this vibrant city. This guide should help you get started on your journey through Mexico City, so that you can get the most out of your visit.