The 10 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

Mexico City is the most populous city in North America, with almost nine million people in the city. It’s a huge tourist destination, and there is quite a bit to do when visiting. If you’re headed to Mexico City, check out these ten things to do in Mexico City to make your trip complete!

Popular Things to Do in Mexico City

1. Visit the Teotihuacan Pyramids

Known as the City of Cods, Teotihuacan has some amazing ruins and pyramids. Once the largest city in the Pre-Columbian Americas, these ruins are a definite must-see. You can go any time and pay an entrance fee to discover this ancient city. Be warned that the crowds may be large during summer, and are generally largest in the middle of the day. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can go in the early morning. If you really want the full learning experience, the best way to go is to take a private tour when it’s quiet. We recommend this tour with a private archeologist.

2. Ride a Hot Air Balloon

This is one of the more adventurous things to do in Mexico City, and provides an amazing experience. You can take a hot air balloon ride up over the ancient city of Teotihuacan, seeing the ruins from a new perspective that is sure to spark your curiosity. There are simple hot air balloon rides, or tours like this one that offer a full experience with an on-ground tour and champagne toast included.

3. Get Out and Hike

When staying in a city, you may not think of hiking as something to do. One of our favorite hikes is the one up the Iztaccihuatl Volcano. Not for the faint of heart, this is a moderate hike up a dormant volcano. The views from the top will take your breath away, and you’ll definitely get a good workout. You can go out alone if you are confident, or go with a guide. This is an all day activity, but a great way to spend your day while in town. You can check out Viator for a guided hike up the volcano.

4. Visit the Shrine of Guadalupe

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is an amazing adventure, and one of the most popular things to do in Mexico City. Whether or not you are religious, this beautiful village is an incredible thing to see. With over twenty million visitors a year, this is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites for Catholics in the world. You can buy tickets ahead of time here, and be sure to bring a camera!

5. Museo Frida Kahlo

The Frida Kahlo Museum, or Museo Frida Kahlo, is one of the most popular museums in Mexico City. Inside the museum, you can see clothes, art, and other belongings from the famous artist. Located at Casa Azul, Frida’s house, you will gain some insight into the woman who created some of the most popular artwork of the area. You can buy tickets online to skip the often large line in front.

6. Check Out the Murals

If you’re looking for non touristy things to do in Mexico City, we recommend checking out this art tour. Lasting a few hours, you will get the opportunity to see some street art and historic murals in the city. This tour is wonderful because the groups are pretty small. You will learn a bit about the history of Mexico City, the social issues, and the culture. The guides are super knowledgeable, and you’re sure to learn some new things!

7. Go Sightseeing

There are tons of sights to see in Mexico City. To get acquainted with the sights, spend a few hours on a sightseeing tour. You will get to see some art, learn about the history, and visit important and special places in the city. From the Metropolitan Cathedral to the Anthropological Museum, get your toes wet and begin to explore Mexico City with the help of a guide.

8. Experience Lucha Libre

There are many things to do in Mexico City at night, but perhaps none are as unique as the lucha libre matches. These wrestling matches offer an exciting look at Mexican culture. Watch masked wrestlers take each other on while you sit, cheer, and drink some tequila. There are different arenas, and regular matches going on year-round. You can buy tickets ahead of time to secure your spot through Viator.

9. See the Monarch Butterflies

If you have ever talked to somebody who has seen the monarch butterfly migration outside of Mexico City, you know that it’s a life-changing experience. From November until March, you can see the migrating monarchs out in the sanctuary. With over a hundred million butterflies around, it will certainly make a lasting impact. You can take a tour from Mexico City out to see the monarchs. If you’re there at the right time of the year, this is perhaps the most unique thing to do in the city.

10. Rent an ATV

Finally, one of our favorite things to do in Mexico in general is to rent ATV’s. You can take this tour to ride out into Nevado de Toluca, a beautiful landscape nearby. The scenery is just amazing, and the thrill of riding an ATV just adds more to the experience.

Looking for a place to stay in Mexico? Check out our list of the Best Hotels in Mexico!