This one day in Mexico City Historic Center guide is for all of you who can’t spend a whole day in Mexico City Historic Center. Let’s face it, tour guides tend to list an overwhelming number of places to visit, especially when it comes to a megalopolis. We don’t blame them, as they wouldn’t like you to miss any of the amazing things there are to see.
However, we understand that sometimes there isn’t enough time to visit every spot. So we have crafted a very attainable list of 7 places you can take your time to see and enjoy if you don’t have much time to spare in Mexico City Historic Center. In other words, you will enjoy the tour without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Feel free to walk at your own leisure and stop to grab a snack or drink on the go. By the way, make sure to be safe and read How to cross the street in Mexico City.
I strongly recommend wearing light clothes and keeping a sweatshirt in your backpack, because it can get cold in the morning or in the evening.
Because this is a quick one day tour, I wouldn’t recommend visiting any museums.
Route:
- Templo mayor
- Catedral metropolitana
- Admire the El Zócalo
- Madero
- Lunch at La Casa de los Azulejos
- Torre Latinoamericana
- Bellas Artes
1. Templo Mayor
Templo Mayor, a testament to the Aztec culture and a glimpse into Mexico’s pre-colonial history, stands as a remarkable window to the past. It offers a unique opportunity to witness Mexico before the Spanish built their city over these ancient pyramids.
Our journey commences here. Purchase a ticket for entry and explore intriguing features, including a wall adorned with skulls and original wall paintings. Even if you visit on a Monday, don’t fret; you can still wander the area and enjoy a decent view of the pyramid.
If time permits, consider a visit to the museum, but if you’re not into museums, that’s alright – you can always save it for another day. Not everyone’s into museums (we get it). So, onwards to our next landmark!
Times: Tuesdays to Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
How to get there:
Metro Line 2. Station: Zocalo.
If you aren’t staying near a metro station, the easiest way is to Uber your way to Templo Mayor. Or take a Taxi.
Address: Seminario Núm. 8, Centro Histórico, México D.F. CP 06060 Phone: 4040-5600 Ext.412930, 412933 y 412967
You can see side by side how the Spanish culture took over the Aztec’s
2. Catedral Metropolitana
Explore the fascinating coexistence of Aztec and Spanish civilizations as you stand amid historical landmarks in Mexico City. Right across from the Templo Mayor, you’ll encounter the remarkable Catedral Metropolitana, the oldest and largest cathedral in the Americas, constructed with stones sourced from the Templo Mayor – a historical trade-off that leaves a lasting impression. This landmark is a must in a one day in Mexico City historic Center visit.
Don’t miss the opportunity to admire the Cathedral’s imposing facade, and if you have the time, venture inside to marvel at the intricately crafted gold altars and lofty cupolas. It’s worth noting that there is no entrance fee, but be sure to remove your hat if you’re wearing one as a sign of respect. This encounter with history and architecture is sure to be a memorable part of your Mexico City experience.
Address: P.za de la Constitución S/N, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
How to get there:
Metro Line 2. Station: Zocalo.
3. Admire the heart of Mexico’s Historic Center: El Zócalo.
As you exit the Cathedral, don’t forget to glance at El Zócalo square. To your left stands Palacio Nacional, the current residence of the president. Stroll around this area to immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Mexico City.
Depending on the timing of your visit, you might encounter various activities and events, from a bustling book fair to festive decorations for Mexico’s Independence Day, Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), or the Christmas season. There’s always something captivating happening in this lively square.
How to get there:
Metro Line 2. Station: Zocalo.
4. Madero Pedestrian Street
Take a leisurely walk down one of the busiest streets in Mexico City, Madero Street, to our next stop. This bustling pedestrian street is teeming with shops and restaurants, always abuzz with locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re in the mood for some window shopping or in need of a quick bite to curb your hunger (or “hangry” feelings), Madero has you covered.
6. Have a Delicious Lunch at La Casa de los Azulejos
La Casa de los Azulejos (The House of Tiles), is one of the must-stops at the City Center. It was built in the XVI century and has been witness to many historical events. Nowadays it’s the famous department store and restaurant Sanborns. Here you can have a delicious Mexican lunch. You can have anything from enchiladas, tacos pozole, to international food. Check out the menu here.
How to get there:
Metro Line: 8 Station: San Juan de Letrán.
Address: Av Francisco I. Madero 4, Centro.
7. Torre Latinoamericana: Admire Mexico City from above
Enjoy the view from the top of the first skyscraper in Latin America.
This important building was the highest skyscraper in Mexico City from 1956 to 1972 and it has survived 3 strong earthquakes.
Buy a ticket to visit the observatory. From up there, you will be able to see the following landmarks: La Raza, la Basílica de Guadalupe, Palacio Nacional, and Bellas Artes. Above all, this is mainly a good place to take a postcard photo of Bellas Artes.
La Torre Latino also offers activities such as Yoga in the Heights and museums, restaurants and cafes.
Restaurant MIRALTO: floor 41
Skybar Nivel 40: floor 40
Café Miralto: floor 37
Terraza 56: floor 9
Tickets start at: 180MXN.
Buy your tickets here.
How to get there:
Metro Line: 8 Station: San Juan de Letrán.
Address:
Eje central lázaro Cárdenas 2, Col. Centro, 06000, CDMX.
Phone: 55-55181710
8. Bellas Artes
Explore one of Mexico City’s most iconic landmarks – Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts), conveniently located just across the street from Torre Latina. Inside, you can immerse yourself in a wide range of cultural experiences, from captivating exhibitions to concerts spanning popular music, ballet, and opera. Don’t forget to check out the upcoming events you can attend here or here.
How to get there:
Metro line 2. Station: Bellas Artes.
Address:
Av. Juárez s/n esq. Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas, Col. Centro, Alcaldía Cuauhtémoc, C. P. 06050, Ciudad de México, México.
To Wrap Up:
And that’s it! This pretty much covers some of the must-see things in Mexico City’s historic center.
Of course Mexico City Historic Center is huge and it would take more than a one-day tour to visit a fraction of what there is to see. Anyway, this halfday guide is a great starting point, and I guarantee you will go back home with a bunch of nice photos. No one will doubt you were, at least, one day in Mexico City Historic Center.
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