Mexico CityTravel Guide

The cobalt blue house where Frida Kahlo was born, lived, and died — her studio, personal objects, and the garden where Diego Rivera worked. Book tickets weeks ahead online.

The Palacio Nacional murals depict the entire history of Mexico in a tour de force of epic scale. Free entry — arrive at 9am when doors open to have them largely to yourself.

The greatest street food in the world — pork shaved from a vertical spit with pineapple, cilantro, and onion on a corn tortilla for MX$15–20. El Vilsito (open until 4am) is the legendary spot.

The ancient city of the gods — pyramids of the Sun and Moon that predate the Aztecs by 500 years, 50km from the city centre. Go at sunrise and stay for the light on the Avenue of the Dead.

The largest urban park in the Americas — the National Museum of Anthropology (the world's finest pre-Columbian collection), the castle, and lakes. Full free day territory.

Float along Aztec-era canals on a colourful trajinera boat, with mariachi bands and food vendors paddling alongside — the last remnant of the lake system that once covered the Aztec capital.

One of the largest public squares in the world, flanked by the Metropolitan Cathedral and Palacio Nacional — beside it, the excavated ruins of the Aztec Templo Mayor reveal the city built atop Tenochtitlan.

Masked wrestlers, acrobatic moves, and a raucous crowd at Arena México — Mexico's most theatrical and entertaining night out, equal parts sport and soap opera.

Browse handicrafts and street food at the Coyoacán Market, then relax in the leafy Jardín Centenario square — the bohemian heart of the neighbourhood where Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera once lived.

A stunning Art Nouveau and Art Deco theatre and museum — marble facade, a Tiffany glass curtain, and murals by Diego Rivera, Siqueiros, and Orozco inside.