After visiting a couple years ago, we returned for a second trip – this time to celebrate a friend’s wedding – and it reminded me why this city is so easy to fall in love with. It’s a place of deep history, intentional design, and amazing food.
Where to Stay in Mexico City: A Different Perspective
The Business District: On our first trip, we stayed near Reforma and Polanco. It felt incredibly safe, polished, and quiet—ideal if you want a calm retreat after a day of exploring.
Hilton Umbral: For my second trip, we stayed at the Hilton Umbral in the Centro Histórico. It is a stunning piece of architecture—a restored 1920s building that feels more like a boutique gallery than a hotel. The rooftop pool and bar are absolute highlights.
The Curated Edit: 10 Best Things to Do in Mexico City
To help you narrow down the noise, I’ve rounded up my absolute favorite experiences from both trips. Whether you’re there for a wedding or a quick weekend, these are the must-go places in Mexico City:
- Sunrise Hot Air Balloon over Teotihuacán: The highlight of my recent trip. Seeing the ancient pyramids from the sky at dawn is a spiritual experience.
- Tacos & Mezcal in Colonia Roma: Book this through Airbnb Experiences. It’s an authentic way to taste your way through one of the city’s best neighborhoods.
- A Walking Tour of the Historic District: Booked through Airbnb experiences. We went with Jose who is an anthropologist and born & raised in Mexico City. It’s the most efficient way to understand the layers of history in the Centro Histórico.
- Cocktails at Licorería Limantour: It’s on the “World’s 50 Best Bars” list for a reason. The design and the drinks are unmatched.
- Dinner at Taverna: A moody, Mediterranean dream tucked inside a restored mansion.
- Brunch at Cafebrería El Péndulo Roma: A super cool interior. It’s a bookstore-meets-café, and on our second trip, we spent a slow morning here with live music and incredible food. It’s a total mood.
- Shopping in Polanco: The “Beverly Hills” of Mexico City offers some of the most beautiful boutiques and high-end design shops.
- The Xochimilco Boat Excursion: We did this on my first trip and it is the ultimate group activity. You board a colorful “trajinera” (flat-bottomed boat) and glide through the ancient canals. It’s festive, super fun, and the perfect excuse to hire a floating Mariachi band to serenade your group.
- The Rooftop at Hilton Umbral: Even if you aren’t staying there, the views of the city at sunset with a drink in hand are the perfect way to end a weekend.
- Coffee and Pastries at Panadería Rosetta: A CDMX staple for a reason. Grab a guava roll and enjoy the Roma Norte architecture.
Interested in other weekend getaway ideas? We love Sonoma, California – read a weekend itinerary here.
