Mexico 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Mexico Itinerary: Exploring History & Culture

This itinerary focuses on Mexico City and its surrounding areas, offering a taste of history, culture, and delicious cuisine.

Visa Requirements:

  • US, Canada, EU citizens: Tourist visa not required for stays under 180 days.
  • Other nationalities: Check with the Mexican embassy or consulate in your country.
  • Passport: Valid passport required for all visitors.

Transportation:

  • Flights: International airports: Mexico City (MEX), Cancun (CUN)
  • Local: Metro, taxis, Uber are readily available in Mexico City.

Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN). Credit cards widely accepted.

Language: Spanish

Things to Know:

  • Tipping is customary (10-15% in restaurants).
  • Bargain for souvenirs at markets.
  • Drink bottled water only.

Day 1: Arrival & Historic Center

  • Morning: Arrive at Mexico City International Airport (MEX), take an authorized taxi or Uber to your hotel in the Centro Histórico district.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Zocalo, the main square. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and Palacio Nacional (National Palace) with Diego Rivera’s famous murals.
  • Evening: Dine at El Cardenal for traditional Mexican cuisine in a beautiful setting.

Day 2: Ancient Civilizations & Art

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Teotihuacan, an ancient Mesoamerican city with impressive pyramids. Climb the Pyramid of the Sun for stunning views.
  • Afternoon: Back in Mexico City, visit the Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Museum of Anthropology) showcasing Mexico’s rich history and pre-Columbian artifacts.
  • Evening: Enjoy a performance at the Palacio de Bellas Artes, a stunning Art Deco building housing theaters and art exhibitions.

Day 3: Coyoacán & Frida Kahlo

  • Morning: Explore the bohemian neighborhood of Coyoacán. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, visit Frida Kahlo’s vibrant blue house (Museo Frida Kahlo), and enjoy the atmosphere in Parque Centenario.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Museo Dolores Olmedo, housing a large collection of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera paintings, as well as Xoloitzcuintli dogs.
  • Evening: Indulge in delicious street food at Mercado de Coyoacán (Coyoacán Market).

Day 4: Floating Gardens & Lucha Libre

  • Morning: Visit the colorful canals of Xochimilco, known as the “floating gardens.” Hire a trajinera (colorful gondola) and enjoy mariachi music while cruising through the waterways.
  • Afternoon: Experience the excitement of Lucha Libre, Mexican wrestling, at Arena México.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner and drinks in the trendy Condesa neighborhood, known for its Art Deco architecture, chic boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.

Day 5: Departure or Relaxation

  • Morning: Depending on your flight schedule, you can relax at Chapultepec Park, visit the Museo Soumaya with its unique architecture and vast art collection, or explore more of the city’s markets and neighborhoods.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Mexico City International Airport (MEX).

Other Interests:

  • Day trips: Puebla (colonial city), Taxco (silver mining town), Cholula (ancient pyramid)
  • Food & Drink: Mole Poblano, tacos al pastor, mezcal, tequila

This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be customized to your interests and pace. Enjoy your journey through Mexico!