Admittedly, when one thinks of spring break, the mind does not rush to Mexico City. But here’s why we recommend it heartily.
For starters, you’ll avoid competition for space on Mexico’s coastal resorts. México’s beaches overflow with domestic and international tourists during the Easter holidays, known in Mexico as Semana Santa, or Holy Week. This means rooms are hard to come by, restaurants are full and the price of everything gets turned up to eleven.
Meanwhile, so many middle-class and affluent folks flee Mexico City at this time of year that getting into great restaurants and other attractions suddenly becomes considerably easier. This also means the city gets a little less hectic, traffic is lighter, and museums are a little faster to get into.
With Latin America’s busiest airport, Mexico City is also very easy to get to, especially from elsewhere in Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
Museums in Mexico City
Mexico City is famous for having the second-most museums in the world, after London. But it’s not only the number of museums that is impressive in CDMX, it’s their quality. Some of the most popular include the Museo Soumaya in the Plaza Loretto district, the Museo Nacional de Antropologia in Chapultepec, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes downtown.
Also extremely popular are spaces like Palacio Nacional and the Education Ministry, where the work of Mexico’s most famous muralist, Diego Riviera, can be admired. Of course, museums dedicated to Rivera’s even more famous wife, Frida, are an even bigger draw.
Archaeological sites
Teotihuacán is an obligatory day trip for any visitor to Mexico City with even the most passing interest in history or archaeology. But Mexico City is home to several amazing archaeological sites like El Templo Mayor and Tlatelolco in the heart of the city and others under 30 minutes away from downtown (with light to moderate traffic).
Perfect for kids
Mexico City is a great place to visit with kids. There are tons of free activities, such as exploring the vast Chapultepec Park and its fairgrounds, the interactive Papalote Museo del Niño, and attractions like Six Flags Magic Mountain.
The food
Food is a huge part of experiencing Mexico City, as its gastronomic scene is one of the best in the entire world. If one is in the mood for fine dining, Mexico City is home to some of the most exclusive restaurants in the world, including Pujol, Restaurant Quintonil, and Sud 777. Great meals on the less expensive side can be had just about anywhere, but some of the city’s best parts of town for a snack or dinner include Coyoacán, La Roma, and Centro Historico.
Nightlife
Mexico City’s fantastic, energetic nightlife caters to a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re into upscale cocktail bars, pulsing nightclubs, or funky cantinas, you’ll find something to keep you entertained until the early hours. Some top neighborhoods for night-time vibes include the posh Condesa and Polanco, the particularly LGBTQ+ friendly Zona Rosa, and the always vibrant Centro Historico.
Gorgeous hotels
There is no shortage of excellent hotels in Mexico City. Some of our favorites include the Hotel Geneve in Zona Rosa, the Pug Seal Polanco, and the Gran Hotel de la Ciudad de México in the heart of downtown. With a little luck, these hotels can often be booked for under US$150 a night, but during high season, they can go for as much as $300-500. Some of the best boutique hotels in the city include those operated by Tesoros de Mexico, all of which offer luxury and value.
Safety
Like any major city, Mexico City has its issues but is safe. However, being on the lookout for scammers and pickpockets is always a good idea, especially in tourist areas or the subway.
So what are you waiting for? Mexico City awaits!
