People enjoying their day in Mexico City

7 Day Mexico City Itinerary [Expert 2023 Trip Planner + Map]

Sky Ariella Hours Updated on Categories Mexico, Mexico City

👉 Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Map | Getting Around | Tips | FAQ

Making a Mexico City itinerary for your week-long vacation isn’t an easy task. When you’re trying to see all that Mexico City has to offer, a week feels much shorter. 

I’m here to help. In this post I’ll share a detailed Mexico City itinerary. We’ll go day-by-day, with step-by-step instructions for exactly where to go, what to eat, and what to see.

I’ve traveled and lived in Mexico City for upwards of a year. I have the inside scoop on what Mexico City activities are worth doing and how to use your time wisely.

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7 Day Mexico City Itinerary

Day 1 – Easy-Going Exploration in Roma

Cars parked along the street in the Roma Neighborhood
The Trendy and Lucious Roma Neighborhood

The first day on your Mexico City itinerary is all about taking in the neighborhoods of Roma Norte and Roma Sur. 

Start your day right with a big cafe burjo, and breakfast from Boicot Cafe. It’s located right in the heart of Roma Norte, so it’s a perfect jumping-off point to start your first day in Mexico City. Next, wander around Parque Espana or the eye-catching exhibits at the Object Museum. Or, just explore the Roma Norte neighborhood’s stunning street art scene. 

Then, head over to Mercado Roma for lunch. It’s a food-hall-style establishment with a bunch of different international options. There’s a beer garden, an Indian restaurant, a bunch of bars, tacos, ice cream, vegan food, and more, all in one easy location. Any food you’re craving in Roma Norte or Mexico City in general, you’ll find at Mercado Roma. 

In the evening, Mexico City really comes alive, and you should fully take advantage of that from your first night. Make your way to Licorería Limantour for colorful cocktails and filling sandwiches to finish off day 1 of your Mexico City trip. 

Day 2 – All About the Historic Center

Overlooking view of Historic Center from Torre Latinoamericana
Views Over the Historic Center from Torre Latinoamericana

Downtown Mexico City, or the Historic city center, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a hotspot with buzzing activity, important monuments, and restaurants. Pop over to El Cardenal or Cafe De Tacuba to try a local breakfast favorite. Both places get pretty busy in the AM, so show up early or prepare for hungry crowds. 

In the afternoon, walk over to the famous Zocalo in downtown Mexico City. Here, you can catch a glimpse of the National Palace and the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral. Then, go to one of Mexico City’s top museums. The Templo Mayor Museum, the Estanquillo Museum,  and the world-class museum of Palacio de Bellas Artes are all only a short walk from the main square. 

Once the evening rolls in, make your way to Mirador Torre Latino, or the Latin American Tower. The lofty skyscraper is a historic landmark with stunning panoramic views over the Mexico City skyline. Eat dinner at the tower’s restaurant and bar, where you can watch the sunset over the Mexico City skyline. 

Day 3 – Museums and Markets of Coyoacán

Different snacks on a snack booth in Mexico City market
A Massive Snack Booth at a Mexico City Market

On your third day visiting Mexico City, start by taking an Uber ride 40 minutes south of the city center to the neighborhood of Coyoacán. This stop on your Mexico City itinerary has a lot of different things to offer. Kick off the day with a traditional Mexican pastry at Caramel Pastelería.

In the afternoon, spend some time at the Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as the Blue House. Visiting Mexico City won’t be complete without the Blue House, but be sure to book tickets in advance as they do sell out. The Frida Kahlo House showcases the life and works of the world-renowned artist.

If you have extra time, also take some time to the Leon Trotsky Museum.

When you’re done at the museums, visit the Coyoacán Market. The local market has a bounty of stalls selling everything from candy and fruit to spices and meat. There are also a bunch of places to grab a quick lunch, like Coyoacán Tostadas. End the day with Oaxacan-style Mexican cuisine and a mezcal cocktail at Corazón de Maguey.

Day 4 – Spend the Day in Puebla

Overlooking view from the town of Puebla in Mexico City
The Views from Over the Gorgeous Town of Puebla

After spending three days of your Mexico City itinerary in the city, it’s time for a day trip to Puebla.

In the morning, head to Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente (TAPO) in Mexico City. Buy a bus ticket to Puebla. Round trip tickets cost around 400MXN (20USD). The bus will take about 2 hours to reach Puebla, and the system is really easy to use. Upon arrival in the charming town, grab a cappuccino and croissant at Bistro 702. 

After you’re fueled and ready to go, check out the insane golden architecture of Templo de Santo Domingo. Do some strolling around Zocalo de Puebla. Nearby, you can visit the Puebla Cathedral and Parian Market, or go to Biblioteca Palafoxiana to see its massive collection of rare books. 

Puebla is known for its food, so grab a big dinner of authentic poblana food at El Mural de los Poblanos or Restaurante Casareyna. Specifically, you must try the mole poblano, chile en nogada and chalupas. You can grab a hotel and stay overnight in Puebla or grab a bus back to Mexico City until 11:30 PM. 

Day 5 – Luxury in Polanco

The Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City from the outside
The Foundation and Plaza Outside the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City (photo: Rachel Moon / Shutterstock)

Day five on your Mexico City itinerary is about soaking up the neighborhood of Polanco. Have an atole de amaranto and chilaquiles at the chilled back ENO for breakfast. Then, grab a cab to the National Museum of Anthropology. The National Anthropology Museum is the most popular museum in the entire country of Mexico. 

After spending a few hours at the famous Anthropology Museum, go to La Casa del Pastor to try their incredible tacos al pastor. After all, you can’t spend a week in Mexico City without trying tacos al pastor at least once. 

View while watching Lucha Libre in Mexico City
Lucha Libre at Arena Mexico

As the night begins to fall, try your luck with getting a table at the illustrious restaurant Pujol. If they’re all booked up, Rosa Negra or Chapulín are also to die for. To close out the 5th day on your Mexico itinerary, take a short Uber to visit Arena Mexico for some Mexican wrestling. Then, party the night away at Hanky Panky Cocktail Bar. 

Day 6 – The Teotihuacán Pyramids

The Teotihuacan Pyramids under the clear blue sky in Mexico City

Even if you only have a week when you visit Mexico City, you must carve out time for the Teotihuacán Pyramids. If you’re staying in Mexico City the entire week, I’d recommend booking a tour with transportation. Like this early morning Teotihuacan access tour with a tequila tasting, or this hot air balloon ride over the Teotihuacan Pyramids with transportation. 

But, if you have a little bit of freedom with your hotel bookings, make your way to Teotihuacán and stay the night. You can either take the bus to Teotihuacan or rent a car in Mexico City. 

There are quite a few affordable accommodations that are super close to the pyramids. That way you don’t have to rush through the day and maybe even grab dinner at Gran Teocalli or one of the area’s other fabulous restaurants. 

Day 7 – Explore Chapultepec Park 

People wandering in Chapultepec Park
One of the Many Entrances to the Giant Chapultepec Park (photo: Erich Sacco / Shutterstock)

Now that it’s one of your last days in Mexico City, wind down your trip by spending some time at Chapultepec Park (Bosque de Chapultepec). Chapultepec Park is sandwiched between the Condesa and Polanco neighborhoods, and it’s huge. It’s kind of like Mexico City’s Central Park.

When customizing your Mexico City itinerary, be aware that Chapultepec closes on Mondays (and is only open 9 am to 5 pm other days).

First, stop by Bistró Chapultepec for a lakeside breakfast. 

Then, after getting some food in your belly, go to ​​Chapultepec Castle. It’ll cost 85 MXN (4.34 USD). But, if you’re on a budget, Chapultepec Castle is free on Sunday. Next, rent an EcoBici bike and take a ride around the park’s many routes. Alternatively, you can rent a paddleboat to see the park from the lake’s perspective. 

If you happen to be visiting Chapultepec Park during the weekend, take advantage of the weekend street food market. It’s a little busy, but it’s worth it for some delicious, authentic lunchtime eats. Once you have a good feel for Chapultepec, treat yourself to one last dinner in style. In the evening, grab a table at Lago Algo, right on Lago Mayor de Chapultepec. 

Mexico City Itinerary Map

Here is a Google Map with all the stop, attractions, and hotels mentioned in this post.

How to Get Around in Mexico City

A motorcycle in a road in Mexico City

Mexico City is a tourist’s dream because there are so many different ways to get around, all at varying price points. You can get around anywhere within central Mexico City by using the metro system or buses; a system that’s super reliable and affordable.

If you want to make your life a little bit easier, Ubers, DiDi, Cabify, and taxis are all also readily available in Mexico City.

Alternatively, you can always rent a car in Mexico City. This is only recommended if you’re planning on taking a few day trips outside of Mexico City’s main city center. 

👉 Pro Tip: Renting a car in Mexico City tends to be a bit of an expensive headache. To make sure you’re not caught off guard, check out this guide to renting a car in Mexico. 

Mexico City Itinerary Planning Tips 

Tip #1 – Prioritize Your “Must-See” Things 

Cars parked along the side of a street in Mexico City

When you’re planning out a Mexico City itinerary, remember one important thing – it’s for you. Everything on your Mexico City itinerary should be curated to your tastes.

Since you’ll only have seven days in Mexico City, narrow down the things to do in Mexico City that are at the top of your list. Make sure you do the things that seem the most interesting to you. Even if it’s not a top Mexico City attraction!

Tip #2 – Look for Souvenirs at the Markets 

Different kind of souvenirs displayed in a stall in Mexico City

Everyone wants to take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir that they can remember their Mexico City trip by. Make sure you work some markets into your Mexico City itinerary because they’re the best place to find unique, local things. With only a few days in Mexico City, you want to find all your souvenirs in one place. 

Get planning with my list of the best markets in Mexico City.

Tip #3 – Explore Mexico City on Foot

A man walking on a street side in Mexico City

Mexico City is an extremely walkable city. You might be hesitant to walk around a bunch when you only have seven days in Mexico City, but I highly recommend it. It’s the best way to experience every little detail of Mexico. Use at least one of the days on your Mexico City itinerary to just walk around and get a lay of the land. 

📚 Related Reading: Needing a caffeine fix on your trip to Mexico City? Check out my guide to the 19 best cafes in Mexico City to find all the coolest coffee shops.

Tip #4 – Go on a Walking Tour

View of a building in Mexico City under the clear blue sky

If it’s your first time visiting Mexico City, taking a walking tour like this one is the perfect way to get familiar with the huge city. It may feel touristy, but it’s a great way to get an introduction to Mexico City. 

When you only have a few days in Mexico City, let a professional help you take advantage of the limited time you have. Plus, tour guides can provide some excellent recommendations for your Mexico City itinerary. 

Tip #5 – Extend your Mexico City Itinerary and Take a Weekend Trip

Overlooking view of the mountain town of San Jose Del Pacifico
The Stunning Mountain Town of San Jose Del Pacifico

It’s possible to complete a full Mexico City itinerary with only seven days in Mexico City. But, I’d recommend staying in CDMX for as long as your schedule allows. 

Beyond Mexico City, there are so many cool towns and cities to explore, like Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido, and San Jose del Pacifico. But, it’s difficult to find the time to go to these nearby places in Mexico with only a few days in Mexico City.

Tip #6 – Go on One of Mexico City’s Many Street Food Tours

People buying from a local food stand in Mexico City
(photo: Bruno_Doinel / Shutterstock)

You should take at least one food tour on your seven days in Mexico City. Everyone expects that they’ll just eat good food in between other activities on their Mexico City itinerary. But, on food tours, you’ll get the inside scoop on all the best dishes in Mexico City and places to eat them. 

📚 Related Reading: 13 Best Hotels in Mexico City (for 2022)

Tip #7 – Consider the Season You’re Visiting Mexico City

View of decorations in El Parian Market for Day of the Dead
Decorations At El Parian Market for Day of the Dead

Your experience can be totally different depending on what time you’re visiting Mexico City. There’s the rainy season from May to October in Mexico City. Then, there are holidays throughout the year that could impact how many people are around and the local prices. It’s something important to keep in mind when you’re creating your Mexico City itinerary. 

For more information to help you plan your Mexico City itinerary, check out my full guide to the best time to visit Mexico. 

Tip #8 – Enjoy the Street Food in Mexico City, but Be Careful

People eating street foods in Mexico City
(photo: Bruno_Doinel / Shutterstock)

The street food in Mexico City is out of this world, but you don’t want it to destroy your entire Mexico City trip by getting sick. To avoid that possibility, stick to the vendors you can trust. Look for places that have a bunch of local people enjoying their food and try to get there early while the food is fresh. 

If it’s your first time in Mexico City, take your time to get used to the street food before diving right in. Try a taco here and a flauta there until your stomach gets accustomed to Mexico City food. 

Tip #9 – Consider Travel Insurance for Mexico City

Mexico City is a pretty safe place, but you never want to take any chances when you’re traveling abroad. If you’re looking for a little added protection, see Nate’s guide to getting travel insurance for Mexico.

FAQs About a Mexico City Itinerary

How many days are enough for Mexico City?

7 days to 14 days in Mexico City is enough to get a good feel for the area. When you’re in Mexico City for at least a week, you have enough time to see all the city’s big attractions. 

Is a week too long in Mexico City?

Seven days in Mexico City is the perfect amount of time for an enjoyable vacation. It’s long enough to pack plenty of activities and adventures into your Mexico City itinerary, without being so long in Mexico City that the trip drags on and on. 

How can I spend 7 days in Mexico City?

There are so many different ways to spend seven days in Mexico City, depending on what types of things you like to do. For travelers who are into food, you can base your Mexico City itinerary around the best street food and fine dining establishments. Families visiting Mexico City might prefer a seven-day Mexico City itinerary with other types of things, like the Anthropology Museum or Chapultepec Castle. 

Are three days enough in Mexico City?

3 days in Mexico City isn’t enough time to fully take in everything the Mexican capital has to offer. Mexico City has hundreds of neighborhoods and lots of nearby day trips. You can barely scratch the surface of one neighborhood with just 3 day Mexico City itinerary. 

***

Thanks for reading this full itinerary for your seven days in Mexico City. Now that you have a Mexico City itinerary, all you have to do is start booking, and you’re well on your way to Mexico City.  If it’s your first time visiting, don’t get on your flight without reading these 23 Mexico City travel tips.

I hope I’ve helped you build the perfect Mexico City itinerary. Have a blast on 7 days in Mexico City! 

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Sky Ariella is a professional writer from New York with an insatiable craving for exploring the world. After a post-college adventure around 6 Asian countries, she dove head-first into a writing career and travel lifestyle. Sky currently lives in Mexico City with her dog Bear.

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