Mexico City is one of the most exciting cities in the world. A colourful, diverse, exciting and sprawling metropolis, infused with history, art and architecture at every turn – it’s one of the most fascinating cities in the world!
I really fell in love with this vibrant city and, even as a solo female traveller, didn’t have any problems. But I know that Mexico City doesn’t always have the best reputation for safety.
The key to having an amazing and safe time in Mexico City is to do your research and carefully consider where to stay in Mexico City so that you choose a good hotel in a safe neighborhood – that’s why I wrote this blog post!
Another important thing to consider is how you will get around. Luckily, there are many guided tours on Viator that promise a safe and stress-free experience and Uber is safe, convenient, and great value.
My Guide to Where to Stay in Mexico City: The Safest Areas, Neighborhoods & Hotels for 2024
I want you to love Mexico City as much as I do so this blog post is like a mini Mexico City guide. I’ll guide you through where to stay in Mexico City, covering all the safest neighborhoods and areas and give my recommendations for the best hotels and places to stay in Mexico City.
At the end of the article are all the Mexico City travel tips you need including the best time to visit Mexico City, getting around safely, and planning your itinerary, tours and activities. I hope it makes planning a trip to Mexico City easier and that you have a safe and amazing time in this fascinating megacity!
In a Hurry? Click here to skip to my hotel recommendations or carry on reading to learn more about the different areas of Mexico City first.
Why I Love Mexico City
I think Mexico City is one of the most interesting cities in the whole world! It was founded over five centuries ago on the site of Tenochtitlan, an ancient Aztec Empire. Today it’s the largest Spanish-speaking city on the planet and the largest metropolis in Latin America!
Even though it’s modern and diverse, the remnants of the ancient civilization and the Spanish period can still be seen in the city’s buildings, artwork, cuisine and traditions making it an endlessly fascinating city to explore.
One of the things I loved the most about Mexico City was the buzzing vibe, diverse neighborhoods and numerous unique things to see and do. There are plenty of guided tours and day trips you can take for an easy, safe and stress-free way to see all the sights.
From the historic colonial churches of the UNESCO world heritage listed ‘Centro Historico’ to the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan, I explored Mexico City for 2 weeks and found something exciting to discover every day.
Pin Me 🙂
Where to Stay in Mexico City
Mexico City is a huge and exciting metropolis, home to over 20 million people and often referred to as CDMX (short for Ciudad de México) by the locals.
The city sits at an attitude of 2,240 meters (7,350 ft) so it’s refreshingly cooler than Mexico’s beach resorts but the high altitude can make sightseeing tiring until you’re acclimatised.
Mexico City sometimes has a bad reputation for safety, but it’s really not as dangerous as used to be. Like with any big city, there are safer areas and ones that you are best off avoiding, and CDMX is no different. It’s a good idea to read some safety tips for visiting Mexico City so you’ll feel informed and prepared.
The most important thing is to do your research into where to stay in Mexico City – make sure you stay in and only visit the safe neighbourhoods and book transport and tours with reputable companies – then you shouldn’t have any problems.
The city is vast with many different districts and obviously I can’t cover every single one, but I will summarise all the safest areas and neighbourhoods of Mexico City that are the most popular for visitors and tourists and my favourite hotels. I’ll also let you know which Mexico City neighbourhoods to avoid.
The Best Areas to Stay in Mexico City
Here’s a quick rundown of the best areas to stay in Mexico City based on the reason for your visit. (Click on the link to take you to more on this area.)
- Best for First Time Visitors – Reforma, Centro Histórico
- Best for Safety – Reforma, Polanco
- Best for History and Culture – Centro Historico, Coyoacán
- Best for Nightlife – Roma, Zona Rosa
- Best for Couples – La Condesa, Polanco
- Best for Family – Reforma, Polanco
- Best for Local Life – Coyoacán, San Angel
- Best for Budget Travellers –Centro Histórico, San Rafael
Confused about all the different areas? Have a look at the Mexico City map below to get acquainted with their location and then read on and I’ll describe them.
Mexico City Map
The Safest Neighborhoods in Mexico City
Mexico City has too many diverse neighborhoods to mention in one blog post, but these are the safest neighbourhoods that are of interest to visitors.
If you’re a first time visitor or looking for the safest district in Mexico City I would recommend Reforma and Polanco.
The area around the Paseo de Reforma and Chapultepec Park is a modern, upscale district and one of the safest neighborhoods to stay in Mexico City. There’s plenty of attractions, some of the best hotels and restaurants and convenient connections to the rest of the city making it handy for families, couples and first time visitors alike.
The upmarket area of Polanco lies to the north of Chapultepec Park appealing to couples, luxury and business travellers with Michelin star dining, designer shopping, interesting landmarks and five-star hotels. I felt very safe here too, even walking alone at night.
Just South of Reforma, Zona Rosa, or the Pink Zone, is popular with the LGBTQ+ scene, with lively Mexican dining, shopping and buzzing nightlife. A short walk from Zona Rosa, you will discover Roma, a hipster favourite with a lively café culture, fine architecture, all within 30 minutes by bus or metro (45 mins walk) from the centre of Mexico City. Zona Rosa and Rome are the best places to stay in Mexico City for nightlife.
West of Roma, La Condesa is a chic and safe neighborhood with leafy streets, upscale boutiques and hotels on the edge of the city’s largest park Bosque de Chapultepec. It’s a great neighbourhood for families with plenty of activities to entertain younger travellers and one of my favourite places to stay in Mexico City.
The Historic Centre or Centro Histórico is the best place to stay in Mexico City for history and culture. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, around the Zocalo boasts abundant art, historical and cultural attractions and is easily accessible from Mexico City International Airport. It’s lively and feels safe during the day but it doesn’t feel the safest district at night.
To the west of Centro Histórico, San Rafael is a quieter residential neighbourhood with markets, museums and budget accommodation close to main attractions of the centre.
Some of the best areas to stay in Mexico City to experience life as a local are to the south of the city. The quintessentially Mexican neighbourhoods of Coyoacán , home to Frida Kahlo’s house and museum, and San Angel are primarily residential and feels quite safe with colonial architecture, narrow cobbled streets and lively plaza’s populated with locals.
For leisurely days immersing yourself in local culture, staying in boutique artsy hotels, dining in authentic cantinas and browsing colourful craft markets, these two areas are a great place for your Mexico City stay.
I should also mention Xochimilco – it’s great to visit in the daytime to ride the colourful canal boats and see the floating gardens, but it’s quite far from the city centre and doesn’t feel so safe at night so it’s not on my list of areas to stay.
Xochimilco is one of the most unique things to do in Mexico City though and well worth a visit but I recommend you take a tour. I took this Xochimilco, Coyoacán and Frida Kahlo Museum Tour which was a safe and stress free way to see these sights and one of the highlights of my time here.
If you want to add in a beach break to your stay in Mexico City, here’s a guide to the best beaches near Mexico City.
The Best Places to Stay in Mexico City
The Best Mexico City Hotels – My Quick Picks
- Best Luxury Hotel – Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City, Reforma
- Best Heritage Hotel – Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico, Centro Historico
- Best Boutique Hotel – Casa Mali Boutique Hotel, Condesa
- Best Mid-Range Hotel – City Express Plus by Marriott Reforma El Ángel, Reforma
- Best Budget Hotel – Ibis Styles, Zona Rosa
- Best Backpacker Hostel – Casa Pepe Boutique Hostal, Centro Historico
- Best Airport Hotel – Camino Real Aeropuerto
- Best Apartment – Xoma Luxury Apartment, Roma
Reforma/Juarez – Central Location Best for Safety, Connectivity, Upscale Hotels and Green Spaces
If you are looking for a safe area to stay in Mexico City for your first time or with family, Reforma (also known as Juarez) is a great option as it’s an upmarket and centrally located downtown area.
The main boulevard, Paseo de Reforma is one of the most famous avenues in the city and contains many attractions and museums as well as some of the best hotels and restaurants in Mexico City. One of the most recognisable sights in Reforma is the Angel De La Independencia or Angel of Independance.
Reforma also runs through Mexico City’s biggest green space, the 1,695-acre Chapultepec Park. This ecological green space in the heart of the city is home to Museum of Modern Art, National Museum of Anthropology, Chapultepec Castle, a lake, zoo, and auditorium.
This Mexico City neighborhood is very safe and upmarket and has easy access to public transport making it a convenient base from which to explore. There are plenty of shopping and dining options in Reforma too, and it’s one of the best places to stay in Mexico City for families or first timers to get a taste of all the city has to offer with no hassles.
People also refer to these areas as Juarez or Colonia Cuauhtémoc. Whatever you call it, the area around Paseo de Reforma is still one of the safest and very best places to stay in Mexico City. It’s also close to the nightlife in Zona Rosa.
The Best Places to Stay in Reforma/ Juarez
$$$ Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City – Award-Winning Hotel with Outdoor Pool.
Set amongst lush gardens on Paseo de la Reforma next to Chapultepec Park, this attractive 5-star hotel is perfect for couples and families. With a full-service spa, on-site dining, fitness center and outdoor pool, there’s plenty to occupy those who wish to relax after a day of exploration. There are several dining options ranging from Italian and Mexican and a well-stocked Champagne bar for sunset drinks in the pretty gardens.
Click here to check prices, reviews or to book
$$ City Express Plus by Marriott Reforma El Ángel – Stylish Modern and Centrally Located Hotel
Centrally located by the Angel of Independance monument on the Paseo de la Reforma Avenue, this modern 4 star hotel by Marriott offers bright, colorful, stylish rooms, continental breakfast and a gym. The staff are very honest, helpful and friendly. Whether you choose a spacious double room, or suite with a living area and kitchenette, you’re sure to enjoy a comfortable and safe stay with easy access to everything Mexico City has to offer.
Click here to check prices, reviews or to book
$ Monoambientes Cuauhtemoc – Apartments within walking distance to Chapultepec Park.
Just a short walk from Chapultepec Park, the Angel of Independence landmark, shops and restaurants, these 3-star budget units are more apartments than hotel rooms, thanks to a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave and functional dining area. They benefit from a TV, WiFi, private bathroom with shower, air conditioning and some have their own sun terrace.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
Polanco – Best Neighborhood for Luxury, Michelin Star Dining & Designer Shopping
Polanco is the city’s most exclusive district, with Michelin star restaurants, five-star hotels, designer shopping, street sculptures and colourful artworks.
This upscale and very safe neighbourhood is a great place for first timers, couples and business travellers as it gives an insight into Mexican life and feels very safe. Even as a solo female I was felt relaxed enough to wander alone at night in this area.
Local attractions in Polanco neighborhood include Soumaya Museum (home to Van Gogh, Picasso, Dali and Renoir artworks) and you can spend leisure time relaxing in Plaza Uruguay, a charming woodland park with murals in the heart of the neighbourhood.
For designer shopping, Avenida Presidente Masaryk is expensive and popular with affluent locals. It’s compared to the Champs-Elysees in Paris and home to top Mexican and international clothing and accessory brands.
On Saturdays, Tianguis or temporary markets (dating back to Aztec times) take place selling fresh fruit, vegetables, and Mexican street food.
Polanco is the best place to stay in Mexico City for luxury travellers. Santa Fe, the main business district, could also be an alternative, although it’s located further out from the city centre, so it’s better suited to business travellers than tourists.
The Best Places to Stay in Polanco
$$$ Hyatt Regency Mexico City – Walking Distance to Chapultepec Park & Designer Shops
This 5-star hotel sits northwest of Chapultepec Park close to the zoo and Museum of Anthropology, whilst also being within walking distance (10 minutes) of Avenida Presidente Masaryk – Polanco’s premier shopping street. The hotel boasts elegant, modern accommodation with glorious views, a swimming pool and 3 on-site restaurants which include a Teppanyaki grill restaurant, Japanese Zen Garden dining, a Mexican bakery and sweet shop.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
$$ ULIV Parque Lincoln: Luxury Studios in the heart of Polanco
Feel at home in the heart of the most upscale district of Mexico City in these modern, fully furnished studios, suites and apartments near Parue Lincoln in Polanco. Each room is spacious and air conditioned and comes complete with a comfortable sitting area, well equipped kitchen, comfortable bed and bathroom. There’s also a gym and rooftop picnic and BBQ area where you can enjoy views over the city.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
$ Caravansaro Vazquez de Mella 347 Polanco – Budget Friendly Shared Apartment near Soumaya Museum
If you are searching for a safe, comfortable and budget friendly place to stay in Mexico City, these rooms are a great option. Each apartment is fitted with a shared living room, kitchen with microwave, fridge, coffee machine and bathroom. You’ll get you own comfortable double room and be able to meet other like-minded travellers whilst adventuring in Polanco without breaking your budget.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
Zona Rosa – Best for Nightlife & LGBTQ+ Travellers
If you’re searching where to stay in Mexico City for nightlife, look no further than Zona Rosa, or the ‘Pink Zone’.
This lively Mexico City neighborhood lies west of the Historic Centre in the safe area of Juarez/Reforma. Zona Rosa has good transport links, a fabulous café culture, cocktail bars, clubs and great Mexican dining and shopping.
Local cultural attractions include the Museum of Wax, Chocolate Museum and Estela de Luz – a 341-foot-tall building commemorating Mexico’s independence from Spain.
The community is also well-known as friendly and welcoming for LGBTQ+ visitors with shops and nightclubs catering to all.
Staying in Zona Rosa is a popular and fun choice, especially if you have a mid-range hotel budget. It’s close to all the main attractions and one of the best places to stay in Mexico City for nightlife.
The Best Places to Stay in Zona Rosa
$$ Geneve Hotel – A-List Treatment & Art Deco Bar
Chic 5-star hotel within walking distance of Paseo de Reforma and Chapultepec Park, near shops, bars and attractions of Zona Rosa. Dating to 1907, the hotel infuses upscale elegance with Art Deco architecture in the bar, stylish rooms, courtyard restaurant and hotel cinema. Decorated with unique works of art, the hotel also houses an on-site spa, wellness centre and state-of-the-art fitness facilities.
Click here to check prices, reviews or to book
$ Ibis Styles Zona Rosa – Comfortable budget stay close to nightlife.
One of the best budget hotels in Mexico City, 3-star Ibis Styles in Zona Rosa has 79 modern, soundproofed rooms decorated in a combination of crisp whites and bold shades, each with air conditioning, 32” TV and free WiFi. The hotel is located just 25 minutes from Mexico City’s International Airport and 10 minutes’ walk to the Angel of Independence landmark.
Click here to check prices, reviews or to book
Roma – Trendy Area for Experiencing the City Like a Local
The Roma neighbourhood is one of the coolest areas to stay in Mexico City. It is divided into two halves – Roma Norte and Roma Sur (north and south).
Roma North offers a blend of traditional Mexican and modern-day culture with excellent food options and nightlife, and as central attractions and Chapultepec Park are both easily accessible, it can be a great place to stay in Mexico City for first time visitors, foodies, couples and families.
The neighbourhood is home to Mexico’s first museum dedicated to design – The Object Museum, Casa Lamm, Mercado Roma (a trendy gourmet food hall and market) and pretty Plaza Rio de Janeiro with a statue of Michelangelo’s David displayed in the centre of a fountain.
In contrast, Roma South is more residential with local shops, cantinas, and events venues. It offers tourists the opportunity to experience a slice of local life and is perfect for sampling traditional Mexican food and longer-term stays in one of the coolest Mexico City neighborhoods.
The Best Places to Stay in Roma
$$$ Xoma – Luxury Apartments with Rooftop Pool
There aren’t many luxury hotels in the Roma neighborhoods so why not immerse yourself and stay in the most stylish apartment in the heart of Mexico City’s most trendy area. These spacious modern one and two bedroom apartments have well equipped kitchens, balconies and plenty of natural light. There’s complimentary breakfast if you don’t feel like cooking and so many nice cafes nearby. The real highlight of this place is the rooftop outdoor swimming pool, terrace, views and of course the location.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
$$ Stanza Hotel – Centrally Located Mid Range Hotel
The 4 star Stanza Hotel is a great mid range pick with spacious, clean, comfortable air-conditioned rooms. Located in Roma Norte the hotel is within walking distance from everything in the trendy Roma neighborhood and many other Mexico City attractions as well. The hotel has a gym and the Maíz and Olivo restaurant serves interesting Mediterranean-Mexican fusion food.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
$ Hotel Monarca – Easy Access to Mexico Arena & Museums
This budget hotel in Roma Norte is perfect for short stays in the city. The rooms come with private facilities, flat screen cable TV and guests can walk to Mexico Arena, Pushkin Gardens and several museums. With an airport shuttle and free parking, it’s a great choice for couples or friends and several rooms come with terrace views across the city and neighbourhood.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
La Condesa – Safe Area with Green Parks and Boutique Hotels
West of Roma lies La Condesa, one of the most affluent and fashionable neighbourhoods in Mexico City.
It’s an easy and safe area to walk around with shady, leafy streets and parks, appealing boutique style hotels and international dining, close to Chapultepec Park attractions and museums. It may not be the cheapest area in Mexico City, but it’s certainly one of the most fun and safest neighborhoods to explore.
La Condesa has a buzzing nightlife scene, which ranges from cocktail bars and lounges to karaoke clubs and all-night dancing. Shopping is also a treat, with a whole range of art, jewellery stores, shoes and vintage clothing shops.
Plus, Condesa is one of the greenest and safest areas to stay in Mexico City. It’s my personal favourite neighborhood in Mexico City and one of the best places to stay for everyone from couples to families and group of friends.
The Best Places to Stay in Condesa
$$$ Andaz Mexico City Condesa – Amazing new 5 star hotel with rooftop pool
The new Andaz Mexico City Condesa is an amazing 5 star hotel by the Hyatt group centrally located to explore the hip neighborhoods of both Condesa and Roma. Soak up the amazing views over the city from the modern, luxurious rooms, relax in the rooftop swimming pool, work out in the fitness center and dance in the night club. There’s also a great breakfast, restaurant and room service to make your stay seamless.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
$$ Casa Mali Boutique Hotel – Classy suites and studios by Parque Espana
Situated right by the Parque Espana and the leafy walkways of La Condesa, Casa Mali boutique hotel offers a comfortable and intimate stay in one of the best locations in Mexico City. Housed in an Art Deco building, the modern studios and suites are well equipped with a kitchenette, coffee machine and flat screen TV. There’s also a shared lounge and terrace with BBQ area and the staff are available 24 hours a day to help you with anything you need from airport transfers to recommendations when you can’t choice between the many amazing cafes nearby.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
$ Hostel Home – Family-Owned Hostel Promoting Art & Community Living
If you’re searching where to stay in Mexico City on a budget, this charming family home borders La Condesa and Roma neighbourhoods. Set inside a characterful building on a leafy street, there are private double rooms and male, female, or mixed dormitories with bunk beds, shared bathroom facilities. There’s also a communal kitchen so you can save money by cooking your own meals while getting to know like-minded travellers. With quirky shops, bars, restaurants, and places of interest locally, it’s a great base for budget travellers in the city.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
Centro Histórico – Best for History and Culture Lovers
No guide to where to stay in Mexico City would be complete without mentioning the Centro Histórico, or the Historic Center. It’s the beating heart of the city and home to the Zocalo, one of the world’s largest squares, and the best place to stay in Mexico City to immerse yourself in the cultural attractions and historical sights.
There are numerous cultural, historical and tourist attractions in the Centro Historico. The National Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral surround the Zocalo, as do ruins of the ancient Aztec Empire Tenochtitlan on which the current city is built.
The main highlights for art connoisseurs are the Diego Rivera Mural Museum and Palace of Fine Arts, the latter displaying a stained-glass curtain curated by Tiffany of New York and works by Diego Rivera, Rufino Tamaya and David Siqueros.
Return to the Zocalo before sundown to enjoy Aztec style traditional dance performances in the plaza, before venturing to a nearby restaurant for traditional Mexican cuisine and ending the day at a rooftop bar with a cocktail.
The Centro Historico is a great place to stay in Mexico City with plenty to explore, it’s also one of the best places to stay in Mexico City on a budget with plenty of backpacker hostels and affordable budget hotels.
The Centro Historico felt safe to explore during the day, even as a solo female traveler. However, after dark some areas are deserted and there’s not much nightlife here. This neighborhood doesn’t feel the safest for walking home alone at night so I recommend using an Uber when traveling through the Centro Historico after dark.
The Best Places to Stay in Centro Histórico
$$$ Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico – Zocalo Views & Central Location
This stylish 5-star hotel in the heart of Centro Histórico is one of the best hotels in Mexico City. Overlooking the Zocalo and National Palace, it is within walking distance of Mexico City’s main tourist attractions including Templo Mayor, Diego Rivera Mural Museum and several local food and craft markets. Enjoy a sophisticated room with a view, equipped with cable TV a work desk, free WiFi and two restaurants serving authentic Mexican cuisine. This hotel gets booked up so book well in advance.
Click here to check prices, reviews or to book
$$ Zocalo Central – Amazing views over the Zocalo from the rooftop restaurant
As the name suggests, this 4 star hotel is located in the Zocalo plaza right next to the National Cathedral so it’s the perfect base from which to explore the most historic area of Mexico City. Housed in a historic refurbished 1890’s building the hotel offers modern rooms and suites, some with views over the Zocalo. The restaurant on the rooftop terrace is another highlight and makes this centrally located hotel very popular.
Click here to check prices, reviews or to book
$ Casa Pepe – Sociable, Budget Friendly & Close to Attractions
This lively budget hotel and hostel is within a short walk of Metropolitan Cathedral and Tenochtitlan Ceremonial Centre. It has a great community spirit especially with younger clientele and backpackers, with a bar, shared lounge and kitchen, and every room – including the dormitories and family rooms have their own private bathroom and shower facilities. It’s the best place to stay in Mexico City for solo travellers, backpackers and those on a budget.
Click here to check prices, reviews or to book
Coyoacán – Best Neighborhood for Immersive Art & Village Ambience
South of the city is the picturesque neighbourhood of Coyoacán (in Nahuatl – place of the coyotes). Coyoacán is one of the best places to stay in Mexico City to experience local life. The mainly residential area is punctuated with beautiful colonial architecture, cobbled streets and there’s a lively plaza and park popular with locals.
When staying in Coyoacán you can immerse yourself in local culture and discover the life and works of artists and creatives at Frida Kahlo Museum (La Casa Azul), Leon Trotsky House Museum and Diego Rivera’s Anahuacalli Museum.
There’s also a zoo dedicated to the coyotes for which the district is named and Mercado de Coyoacán, a typical Mexican market selling everything from artisan products to handicrafts, street food and groceries.
The Best Places to Stay in Coyoacán
$$ H21 Hospedaje Boutique – Friendly Staff, Close to Parks and Museums
This elegant hotel is within a short walk of Coyoacán’s central park and fountain, Frida Kahlo Museum, the National Museum of Popular Culture and Plaza Coyoacán. Classed as an upscale boutique guest house, rooms are stylish and beautifully decorated, with air conditioning, seating area, flat screen cable TV, a terrace (optional) and a safety deposit box. If you plan to hire a car in Mexico City, there’s free private parking, plus, you’re only seven miles from Six Flags Mexico if traveling with children.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
$ Coyoacan City Lofts – Comfortable Lofts in the Heart of Coyoacan
Comfortable, modern studios and loft apartments with a garden and patio only 600 meters away from Frida Kahlo’s House. With a kitchen, sofa, work desk, free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms these self contained apartments are a great way to stay on a budget and immerse yourself in one of Mexico City’s most charming and authentic neighborhoods.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
San Rafael – Best Area for Budget Travel, Local Life and Theatre Lovers.
Often overlooked by tourists in favour of more trendy locations, this residential area just beyond the Revolution Monument is arts focused, home to Aldama and San Rafael Theatres, modern art and history museums and beautiful architecture.
San Rafael is easy to access via metro and a short distance away from Diego Rivera Mural Museum, the Historic Centre and Angel of Independence monument.
This neighbourhood places you in the heart of Mexico City, without paying the prices of Reforma, La Condesa and Polanco, making San Rafeal is one of the best places to stay in Mexico City on a budget.
The Best Places to Stay in San Rafael
$ Hotel Astor – Great Value Centrally Located Hotel
This 4 star hotel is a great option for a centrally located stay in Mexico City that won’t break the bank. The hotel rooms are spacious, clean, comfortable and well equipped with air conditioning, TV and private bathrooms.
The Astor has a restaurant and bar serving Mexican cuisine and room service is also available. It’s located in the residential San Rafael neighborhood near the Jardin de Arte Sullivan, modern art museums and a range of local bars, eateries and stores. It’s a 10 minute walk from the Revolution Monument and Revolución Metro Station which offers easy access to the rest of the city.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
San Angel – Best Neighbourhood for Local Heritage & Colourful Craft Markets
Southwest of Coyoacán lies San Angel in Mexico City. This thriving local neighbourhood is a place for artisans and creatives – picturesque with parks and colonial buildings, churches, art galleries and open-air markets.
Plaza San Jacinto is the heart with rich history and superb authentic Mexican restaurants, however hotel options are limited. Visitors can venture to the Saturday bazaar, where crafts from all over Mexico are displayed for purchase, then walk to the local monastery/museum to gain a glimpse into San Angel’s intriguing history.
The Best Places to Stay in San Angel
$$ Krystal Grand Suites Insurgentes – Modern luxury for less
Located close to Arte Carillo Gil Museum in the San Angel district, this 4-star hotel boasts spacious, art-infused rooms with wooden floors, comfortable beds, ensuite facilities and a smart TV for movie watching. It’s a peaceful area, where you can fully immerse yourself in the local markets and attractions of San Angel.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
$ Arbol San Angel Suites – Comfortable Budget Stay
Comfortable modern rooms with smart TVs, a garden and terrace for a great budget stay in San Angel and easy access to everything Mexico City has to offer. The deluxe rooms have bug windows and plenty of natural light.
Click here to check prices, reviews and to book
More Tips for Planning your Trip to Mexico City
Best time to visit Mexico City
Mexico City is a delight to visit any time of the year. The city has a temperate climate and affordable hotels, and multiple cultural attractions which make it a pleasure to visit whatever the weather.
High season is between March and May when weather is in the high 70-degree Fahrenheight/ 20 degrees Celsius bracket.
Easter in Mexico, known as the Mexican Holy Week or Semana Santa is a busy period as most businesses close and Mexican families travel to gather with loved ones meaning crowded or fully booked hotels and restaurants. If you plan to travel during this peak season, book well ahead and look at hotels near Mexico City International Airport or a little further away from the centre to save.
The best, and most temperate times to visit the Mexican capital are during September through to late November. These mid-season months are a great time to travel with children as the weather is more bearable and cooler for exploring the city.
The Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos) celebrations, held in early November, are the most interesting time to visit Mexico City, although accommodation can be more expensive and get booked up way in advance. Mexico City celebrates a little differently from the rest of the country so check out this local’s guide to Day of the Dead in Mexico City for everything you need to know.
Budget travellers will enjoy venturing to Mexico City between June and August and December to February as these months are classed as low season. There may be a few rainy days and cooler evenings, however, you can achieve amazing hotel deals and view city attractions minus hordes of tourists.
If you are just passing through for a few days, avoid Three Kings Day in early January as prices can rise, and some shops and museums may be closed for the holiday.
How to get to Mexico City
Getting to Mexico City is easy via air, train, coach or car from other regions. Mexico City International Airport (MEX), also known as Benito Juarez International, is the busiest airport in Latin America and served by around 30 domestic and international airlines.
It’s about 30 minutes by taxi from the airport to the Zocalo. The Camino Real Aeropuerto is the best place to stay near Mexico City’s airport – it’s connected to the airport by a footbridge and has great value luxurious rooms, pool, fitness center and spa to help you refresh after or before a flight.
How to get around Mexico City
Mexico City is built on a grid system, making most areas easy to navigate. Getting around Mexico City can be easy too if you plan ahead. There are metro stations in almost every neighbourhood, plus, you can get around via buses, bicycles, taxis and on foot.
Uber is a convenient, safe and affordable way to get around Mexico City, although traffic congestion means traveling across the city can take time so factor that into your itinerary.
If you want to do a lot of sightseeing the easiest and safest way is to book a guided tour through Viator or Get Your Guide where you can check reviews from previous travellers.
When you take a tour you have your transport covered as well as a knowledgeable local guide to show you around so it feels super safe and stress free.
Another convenient way to see all the tourist attractions is on the popular Hop On Hop Off Bus.
The city’s metro is a popular mode of transportation for the locals with just under 200 stations and 14 lines, and it’s cheap to buy tickets, making it a cost-effective way to explore the city. The services operate from early morning until midnight, however, try to avoid rush hour or rainy days, as when the metro is busier, there’s a higher chance of pickpocketing.
In addition to metro services, buses and peseros (microbuses) operate throughout the city. They stop almost anywhere, in any neighbourhood, and some routes to popular tourist hotel areas (such as Paseo de Reforma) operate all night, however they do not have the best reputation for safety.
If you prefer to explore the city on two wheels, bicycles are free to rent from kiosks next to Metropolitan Cathedral in the Historic Centre and at various locations throughout La Condesa, Paseo de la Reforma and Roma. However, stick to quieter lanes and routes, as the main city roads can be busy and erratic during peak times.
There’s also the option to drive around Mexico City by car, although this discouraged for tourists due to the heavy traffic that can make getting around slow going. Hotels can order taxis and Ubers are available via smartphone apps.
What to do and how many days to spend in Mexico City
It’s easy to spend a week or longer in Mexico City. However, if you are short on time and are just passing through on route to Mexico’s idyllic beach resorts, allow for a minimum of 3 days to see the different neighborhoods and top attractions.
3 Days Mexico City Itinerary
Here’s how to organise your Mexico City itinerary to see the highlights in just 3 days:
Day 1: Explore the Centro Historico and the Zocalo, Chapultepec Park, Condesa and Roma.
A great way to start your trip is with a Centro Historico walking tour to learn about the area and get your bearings with a local guide. Check out the views and museums in Chapultepec Park, then explore the trendy neighbourhoods of Condesa and Roma on a guided tacos and mezcal crawl.
Day 2: Visit the Frida Khalo Museum, Coyoacan and Xochimilco
Take this private guided tour to explore the beautiful and authentic neighborhood of Coyoacan, visit Frida Khalo’s house and museum, and take a ride on a colorful boat through the Xochimilco canals.
Day 3: Day Trip to Teotihuacan
Take a day trip to Teotihuacan and head out of the city to see the unmissable, mighty pyramids of Teotihuacan. This is the Teotihuacan tour I took – it got us into the site early before the crowds and our archaeological guide brought the ancient site to life. The Tequila tasting afterwards was a nice touch too.
You can even go on a hot air balloon ride above the pyramids, or combine your trip with visiting more places like Tlatelolco and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Whatever you choose I’m sure Teotihuacan will be a highlight of your time in Mexico City.
Where NOT to Stay in Mexico City – Unsafe Areas
As with any city you’re not familiar with, you should always take care to secure your belongings, especially when out and about after dark. Mexico City has a reputation for not being very tourist-friendly when it comes to safety, however, if you are vigilant and don’t wander into specific neighbourhoods you should be fine.
Staying around the central areas of the city are usually problem-free, however, after dark areas surrounding Zocalo in the Historic Centre can feel a little unnerving at night with shops fully shuttered up and a large police presence. Problems with pickpocketing have also been reported in this area.
I didn’t have any problems, however I wouldn’t walk alone at night in dark, lonely areas. Also keep belongings safe and don’t wear excessive jewellery or carry items worth a lot of money, especially when visiting busy markets and watching entertainment.
Other areas to avoid in Mexico City include Iztapalpa – a poverty-stricken area, Ciudad Neza, Tepito, Tlatelolco and some areas to the far north and south of the capital. The Merced market area and picturesque canal area of Xochimilco have also witnessed incidents but it’s safe to visit if you go with a guided tour in the day time.
It can be helpful to check TripAdvisor before visiting places to read about others experiences and known if they had any safety issues.
I hope my tips on where to stay in Mexico City have helped you to plan your own trip and have a safe and enjoyable visit. As long as you stick to the safe neighborhoods and follow basic safety precautions you should be fine – don’t let fear stop you from experiencing this amazing city!
If you found this post useful and want to support me if you book your hotel through the links in this blog post I can earn a small affiliate commission with no extra cost to you. This helps to keep me traveling and to keep this site going so I can bring you more travel tips. Thank you!
If there’s anything I haven’t covered just leave me a comment below. Happy Travels! 😊
Read More Mexico Travel Guides and Blogs:
- My 2 Week Mexico City, Beaches and Oaxaca Itinerary
- A Guide to Mazunte, Oaxaca
- A Guide to Zipolite, Mexico’s only nude beach
- A Guide to Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca
- Where to Stay in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
- My Experience Backpacking Mexico Solo
- 5 Best Yoga Retreats in Mexico
- Best Surf Camps in Mexico
6 comments
Amazing!! these tips really helped me a lot. Thanks for posting.
Thanks! Glad you found it useful. Hope you have a fun and safe trip to Mexico City 🙂
Excellent article. Map and overview of neighborhoods exactly what I needed to help plan my time there. Thank you!!
Thank you! I’m really glad you found it useful – it was a bit daunting for me when I first arrived in Mexico City so I hope you can learn from my experiences and have an amazing trip! 🙂
Hi Anna!
Thank you very much for sharing the above informative article! I will use your map and book hotels in your recommended areas.
Thanks! Glad to hear your found it useful! Hope you have a great trip 🙂