Mexico City is officially under my skin. I’ve been back in NYC for over a week now but I simply can’t shake it. From the minute I landed I felt connected to the vibe. Houses are painted in a rainbow of sorbet colors – vibrant pinks and jewel-tone blues. Streets are lined with cascading trees and colonial style buildings. The food is beyond delicious. The people are WARM. And the energy is sexy-cosmopolitan meets bohemian-chill. Below is my guide to the very best of what I sampled. All I can say is, I’m ready to go back for more!
What to Pack:
- The style in Mexico City is very chic and eclectic. Lots of accessories, wide-brimmed hats, studded boots, and layers of rings and bracelets. We were there in mid October so we were blessed with gorgeous sunshine during the morning and lunch, followed by a light rain in the afternoon, and cooler jacket weather in the evening. My recommendation is to pack great flats for your touring in the day, an umbrella, and sweater plus some fun accessories to blend in with the local fashion.
Where to Stay:
- Four Seasons – a stunning, luxurious oasis in the heart of Mexico City
- Carlota – chic, contemporary and urban design hotel at an affordable price
What to See:
- Soumaya Museum – largest private collection of Rodin outside Paris
- Museo de Arte Popular – collection of Mexican handcraft and folk art
- Palacio des Bellas Artes – music, dance, theatre, opera house
- Palacio de Correos – palace like Post Office in the heart of the historic centre
- Francisco Madero Street – popular walking street with Colonial architecture
- Casa de los Azulejos – stunning house of blue tiles
- Catedral Metropolitana – most iconic cathedral in downtown Mexico City
- La Casa Azul – Frida Kahlo’s childhood home, now museum of her life
- Casa Luis Barragan – former house and workshop of architect Luis Barragan
- Coyoacan, Condesa, and Polanco Neighbourhoods
Where to Eat:
- Rosetta – best meal of the trip! Unreal combination of Italian meets Mexican
- El Moro – churros & hot chocolate
- Rosa Negra – great mix of Peru, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina and Mexico!
- Balcon del Zocalo – best view in the city! Must try the tortilla soup
- Azul Historico – beautiful open restaurant with lanterns and great mole
- LUR – gorgeous atmosphere and fine dining in Polanco
Where to Shop:
- Antara Polanco – open-air shop centre with international and local brands
- Mercado de Coyoacan – brimming with local Mexican handcrafts and eats
- Taxonomia – amazing curation of Mexican meets Japanese jewelry, art, fashion, furniture, and publications. Super innovative and affordable!
Where to Play:
- Xochimilco – renting a trajinera (colorful gondola) to ride through the canals of Xochimilco can’t be missed! Hands down one of the most fun things I’ve ever done. Bring your classic Mexican fare with some tequila and limes and get ready for a mariachi band to serenade you onboard.
What to See Outside the City:
- There is SO much to see outside CDMX, but I can only advise on the one place in particular that I experienced on this trip: Oaxaca. Head to my City Guide to see why Oaxaca can’t be missed!
