45 Best Things to do in Mexico City: All best Places to Visit

You’re planning to visit Mexico City on your next trip?

Great idea!

Mexico City, also known as DF (Federal District) or CDMX, is the capital of Mexico. It is surrounded by several mountain ranges at an altitude of 2250 m.

It has a rich and fascinating history. It was founded in the 14th century by the Mexica as Mexico-Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec empire. It was conquered by the Spaniards in 1521, who built Mexico City on its ruins. It was the capital of New Spain until the end of the War of Independence in 1821.

Today, Mexico City is a vibrant, historic, and modern city with so much to offer visitors!

Here is my guide to Mexico City with the 37 best places to visit and things to do, including activities for the whole family. You’ll find my best tips and advice to make the most of your next visit to the capital.

I also suggest some itineraries to visit Mexico City in 1, 2, 3 and 4 days, along with my best hotel recommendations for all budgets. In short, everything you need to know to plan your trip!

And now, are you ready to discover what to do in Mexico City?

The best tours in Mexico City

If you don’t have time to read the article (although I recommend it so you can discover all the activities!), here is a summary of the best tours to do in Mexico City.

The good thing is that for all the activities I have suggested in this article, you can cancel them at no cost.

Just click on the name of the ticket to book it:

Ticket	Description	Price (may vary)
Frida Kahlo Museum	Entrance to the Frida Kahlo Museum	28 $USD
Xochimilco + Frida Kahlo Museum	Frida Kahlo Museum, Xochimilco's boat tour, with pick up	46 $USD
Xochimilco + Frida Kahlo Museum (private)	Frida Kahlo Museum, Xochimilco's boat tour, with hotel pick up (private tour)	435 $USD (up to 3 persons)
Museum of Anthropology	Fast-track entrance to the Museum of Anthropology	9 $USD
Museum of Anthropology Guided Tour	Entrance to the Museum of Anthropology with guided tour	23 $USD
Museum of Anthropology + Chapultepec Castle	Guided tour of the Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Castle	41 $USD
Museum of Anthropology + Chapultepec Castle (private)	Guided visit to the Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Castle with pick-up (private tour)	288 $USD
Templo Mayor	Entrance with quick access to the Templo Mayor	9 $USD
Torre Latinoamericana (observation deck)	Access to the observation deck on the 44th floor of the Latin American Tower	11 $USD
Torre Latinoamericana (observation deck + museum)	Access to the observation deck on the 44th floor of the Torre Latinoamericana and to the Bicentennial Museum	14 $USD
Folkloric Ballet Show	Folkloric ballet show with pick -up at the hotel	55 $USD
Franz Mayer Museum	Entrance to the Franz Mayer Museum	4 $USD
Lucha Libre and Mariachis	Mariachis in Plaza Garibaldi and Lucha Libre	70 $USD
Tequila and Mezcal Museum	Visit to the tequila and mezcal museum, tasting included	17 $USD
Food Tour (Condesa and Roma)	Food tour of the Condesa and Roma neighborhoods	84 $USD
Food Tour (downtown)	Food tour of downtown Mexico City with the San Juan Market	105 $USD
La Merced and Sonora Markets	Visit to the typical markets of La Merced and Sonora	98 $USD
Cooking Class	Mexican cooking class	110 $USD
Cantinas Tour	Visit to 4 traditional cantinas (taverns) with tastings	112 $USD
San Ángel and Chimalistac	Guided tour of San Angel and Chimalistac neighborhoods (Saturdays only)	80 $USD
Early access to Teotihuacan	Morning guided visit to Teotihuacan, pick-up and tequila tasting	42 $USD
Balloon flight over Teotihuacan	Hot-air balloon flight over Teotihuacan with breakfast, toast and flight certificate	157 $USD
Street art tour	Street art bike tour	42 $USD
Chocolate Museum	Entrance to the chocolate museum	5 $USD
Six Flags Park	Entrance to Six Flags park with pick-up at the hotel	124 $USD
Mexican Muralism Tour	Guided tour of Mexican muralism in the city center	18 $USD

Visiting Mexico City: The 45 must-see tourist attractions

1. Plaza de la Constitución

The Zócalo or Plaza de la Constitución has been declared a Unesco World Heritage Site.

It is the largest square in Latin America and a major tourist attraction in Mexico City, because it houses all the main buildings of the capital.

Here is what to see in the Zócalo, one of the most important tourist attractions in Mexico City:

• The Metropolitan Cathedral: It is the Largest cathedral in Latin America and one of the most important catholic buildings in the world. An imposing building with fourteen chapels, it was built over the ruins of the Templo Mayor of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan. Admission is free, but I recommend you visit the cathedral’s bell towers for 30 pesos.
• National Palace: has been the seat of government since Aztec times (even Montezuma’s palace was there!). Part of the building has been transformed into a museum and houses frescoes by Diego Rivera such as “The History of Mexico”. Free admission, but ID is required.
• The Old Portal of Merchants: Occupies one side of the square with several commercial buildings dating back to the 16th century. Here you can find shops, hotels, and luxury restaurants.

2. The Templo Mayor

Just behind the cathedral is the “Templo Mayor”, which was the main temple of the city of Tenochtitlan.

However, it wasn’t until the late 1970s that its location was accidentally discovered during construction work – can you imagine, the pyramid was 45 metres high!

To better understand the importance of the Templo Mayor, you can visit the museum, which has many pre-Hispanic objects, such as the monolith of Coyolxauhqui, the goddess of the moon.

• It’s open every day (except Mondays) from 9am to 5pm. Admission is 90 pesos.
• Get your Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket to Templo Mayor here!

3. Colegio de San Ildefonso

The Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso was one of the largest educational institutions in New Spain.

Years later it became a preparatory school and later a university. Great figures such as Frida Kahlo studied there. And it was precisely there that she met Diego Rivera, who went to paint his first mural “La Concepción” in the Teatro Simón Bolívar.

There are also works by great artists such as Jean Charlot, Fernando Leal, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Ramón Alva de la Canal, Fermín Revueltas and José Clemente Orozco.

• Address: Justo Sierra 16, Historic Centre of Mexico.
• Open Tuesday – Sunday from 11 am to 6pm (last admission is at 5.30 pm)
• Admission is 50 pesos
• Website

4. Latin American Tower

Taking the pedestrian street Madero from the Zócalo, you will arrive at the “Latin American Tower“one of the city’s tallest skyscrapers in the city.

The ascent to the observation deck is definitely one of the main tourist attractions in Mexico City.

Here is what you will find:

• 36th floor: Bicentennial Museum (20 pesos adults, 10 pesos children)
• 37th floor: café and souvenir shop
• 38th floor: permanent exhibition “The city and the tower through the centuries”
• 40th floor: a modern bar called “40th floor” ideal for a drink in the evening
• 41st floor: restaurant-bar Miralto with large windows to enjoy a magnificent view while having a bite to eat.
• 42nd and 43rd floors: two spaces with large windows and temporary exhibitions.
• 44th floor: the mirador latino, an open terrace with the best view!

5. Attending the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico show

The Ballet Folklorico de Mexico is a must-see show in Mexico City!

It presents legends, dances, songs and traditions from different states of Mexico through a colourful show in the famous Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts).

• You can buy your tickets for the show here! (hotel pick-up included)

6. The Palace of Fine Arts in Mexico

A few metres from the Torre Latino is the Palace of Fine Arts, a magnificent building built in the early 1900s.

The imposing exterior is in the style of art nouveau and the interior is art deco. It was made of white Italian marble and houses paintings done by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, José Clemente Orozco and Rufino Tamayo .A real jewel to visit in Mexico City.

Inside the palace you can find the Museum of Fine Arts (85 pesos, Sundays free), the Museum of Architecture (55 pesos, Sunday free) and the theatre where the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico performs.

• Address: Avenida Juárez corner Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas, Mexico. Tue – Sun from 10am to 6pm. Website

7. Alameda Central

In front of the Palace of Fine Arts is the Alameda Central, the oldest public park in Mexico and the Americas (1592), with its benches, fountains and impressive sculptures.

Nearby is Diego Rivera’s mural museum (admission 45 pesos, Sunday free), with his work entitled “Sueño de una Tarde Dominical en la Alameda Central” (Dream of a Sunday afternoon in the Alameda Central).

8. Franz Mayer Museum

The Franz Mayer Museum boasts Latin America’s most extensive decorative arts collection.

Franz Mayer gathered an eclectic mix of artworks, books, furniture, and more, mostly from Mexico but also from Europe and Asia, spanning from the 15th to the 20th centuries.

The collection features unique handcrafted pieces, including textiles and Talavera pottery, often overlooked in historical preservation.

Nestled in Mexico City’s historic heart, the museum is set in an 18th-century building, once the San Juan de Dios monastery and hospital.

While it displays only a fraction of Mayer’s finds, the museum continues to expand its collection, offer workshops, and host temporary exhibits. It also has a charming café in the courtyard.

It may not be the most famous or largest museum in the capital, but for me, it’s one of the most beautiful museums in Mexico City!

You can get your tickets to the Franz Mayer Museum here:

9. Kaluz Museum

Housed in a magnificent historic building, it exhibits Mexican art from the 18th to the 21st century.

You can climb up to the rooftop terrace for a drink, coffee or bite to eat. You can even see the Torre Latinoamericana from the terrace.

• 10-18h, closed Tuesdays
• entrance 90 pesos for foreigners, 60 pesos for Mexicans

10. Casa de los Azulejos

The Casa de los Azulejos (House of Tiles) or Casa de los Condes del Valle de Orizaba is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful buildings in Mexico City.

It is easily recognized by its unique blue façade, entirely covered in Talavera pottery from Puebla.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enter and see the interior. There is currently a Sanborns (store and restaurant), but even without consuming anything, you can climb to the second floor to enjoy a beautiful view.

It’s on Calle Francisco Madero, a stone’s throw from the Palacio de Bellas Artes, so you’re sure to find it on your way!

11. Francisco I. Madero Street

This important pedestrian street is a must-see in Mexico City, because in addition to being an important shopping area, it links the Palace of Fines Arts Artes to the Zócalo.

On this street, you can visit:

• the Torre Latinoamericana observation deck
• the Temple of San Francisco
• Palacio de Iturbide (one of my favorite spots in downtown Mexico City!)
• Estanquillo Museum
• MUMEDI (Mexican design museum)

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12. National Museum of Art (MUNAL)

A few steps away from Bellas Artes, in front of the Manuel Tolsá Square, you will be able to see a building that is considered one of the most important architectural works of the early 20th century in the country.

It is true that the building (inside and out) is a real work of art – I was really impressed!

It houses an art collection of 3000 pieces (16th to 20th centuries).

• Address: Calle de Tacuba 8, Historic Centre of Mexico City. Admission is $85 pesos. Tue – Sun from 10am to 5:30pm. Web Site

13. La Opera Bar

La Ópera is a historic cantina in Mexico City, famous for the bullet Pancho Villa left in its roof.

The story goes that, in the midst of the revolution, Pancho Villa came in with his men and shot through the roof of the cantina because no one was listening to him.

Honestly, I don’t know if this is true or just a legend, but what is certain is that this place is a veritable institution, which has been frequented by many illustrious figures.

It was founded by two French sisters named Boulangeot in 1876, inspired by the cafés and tearooms of Paris. They moved to the present location in 1895, a stone’s throw from the Latin American Tower and the Palacio de Bellas Artes.

Because of its location and notoriety, I thought La Ópera was going to be one of those overrated, touristy places that rely solely on their glorious past, but I took advantage of my mother’s visit to Mexico City to go there: what a pleasant surprise I had!

It’s a real immersion in the past, with an Art Nouveau interior, wallpaper from the time of Porfirio Diaz, an imposing bar imported from New Orleans, wooden furniture with red velvet seats, and walls covered with photos that bear witness to its illustrious past.

The waiters were friendly, the food was good (although it was not unforgettable, but I remember the dishes were decent).

As I was with my mother, I paid for a few songs to the musicians and it was definitely worth it to complete the experience.❤️

My mother was delighted, took lots of pictures and still talks about the La Opera bar as one of her best memories of her trip to Mexico City.

The next time I roam in the center, I’ll definitely come back for a drink (but maybe not for food) and enjoy the interior. It’s a little gem.

• Av. 5 de Mayo #10, Historic Center of Mexico City
  Mon-Sat 1pm-11pm, Sun 1pm-6pm

14. The Mariachis of Plaza Garibaldi

La Plaza Garibaldi is the best place to see mariachis in Mexico City.

Singers and musicians happily dress in traditional Mexican mariachi garb to perform a variety of songs, allowing themselves to be photographed and videotaped by tourists and onlookers (be prepared to tip!).

The atmosphere is certainly particular, as Garibaldi is a very popular place, and although you will often come across drunken characters, especially on weekends, it is undoubtedly a real institution in the capital.

In my opinion, this is one of the most important places to visit in Mexico City!

The best thing you can do to enjoy Garibaldi is to relax on a terrace and enjoy the music. I recommend the Salon Tenampa, a traditional Mexican cantina (1925).

15. Tequila and Mezcal Museum

The Museo de la Tequila y del Mezcal is located on the Plaza Garibaldi, with 2 rooms, one dedicated to tequila and mezcal, the other to the history of mariachis and the Plaza Garibaldi.

Your ticket also includes a tasting of 3 types of Tequila and 2 Mezcals.

You can get your ticket here:

16. Watching a Lucha Libre fight

Along with the mariachis the Lucha Libre is, without a doubt, the other image that forms part of the collective imagination when one thinks of Mexico.

The origin of mexican professional wrestling dates back to the french intervention in Mexico inspired by Greco-Roman wrestling (1861-1867).

The famous masks came later, at the beginning of the 20th century. Most of them represent gods, historical heroes, animals and other characters that are proudly embodied by the wrestlers.

What an electrifying atmosphere! These are the places to visit in Mexico City to enjoy the Lucha Libre:

• Arena Mexico: Also known as the Cathedral of Lucha Libre, it is a huge venue with a capacity to hold up to 16 000 spectators . It was built in the fifties and it is here that you can see the greatest Mexican wrestlers. Wrestling: Tuesday 19h30, Friday 20h30 and Sunday 17h. Address: Dr. Lavista 187, Doctores, Mexico City.

• Arena Coliseo: It is older and smaller than Arena Mexico, which is why its counterpart was built. Today, many spectators still flock to watch the fights. Fights: Saturdays 19h30. Address: República de Perú 77, Downtown Mexico City.

If you haven’t already bought a mask at the market, you’re sure to find some for sale outside the arenas.

• You can only take pictures of the fight with your phone, as cameras are prohibited.
• Rows 1 to 3 are forbidden for minors.

17. Celebrating the Day of the Dead

The Day of the Dead is an important tradition that is part of Mexico’s popular culture.

If you are in Mexico City between 31 October and 2 November, you can attend the big Day of the Dead parade, or see the beautiful offerings in the neighbourhood of Coyoacán.

18. Taste the Diversity and Flavor of Mexican Cuisine

Mexico City is a gastronomic paradise, where you can enjoy the rich and diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine, which was recognized as UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage!

But don’t just take my word for it: experience it for yourself with a food tour that will take you to the best places to eat, drink, and learn about Mexican food culture.

I’ve done a lot of food tours in Mexico City, but this one is my favorite ❤️:

It’s a bike tour that combines delicious food and fun sights through the Roma, Condesa, and Chapultepec Park.

You’ll start with coffee and pan dulce in Condesa, then ride to Roma for tamales. You’ll visit a market and Parque Mexico for more snacks. You’ll finish with churros and drinks in Condesa. The guides are awesome and will share tips and stories along the way.

It’s a great way to experience the authentic Mexican food culture! Book it here:

19. The Roma and Condesa neighbourhoods

For me, they are the most attractive neighbourhoods in Mexico City!

You can find beautiful streets with big trees, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Modernist style houses, along with art galleries, shops, cafés, restaurants and trendy bars, all in a very bohemian atmosphere.

If there is a difference to be made, I would say that La Roma is more rebellious and La Condesa has more style. In both you will find good examples of urban art from Mexico.

Go to the Mercado Roma, to the Medellin Market or to the La Condesa tianguis (street market).

There are several places you should not miss: Alvaro Obregón street, Plaza Luis Cabrera, Cibeles Fountain, Jardín Pushkin, Avenida Amsterdam, Parque México, Plaza Río de Janeiro, Parque España, Fuente de Cibeles

20. Plaza de las Tres Culturas

The Plaza de las Tres Culturas (Place of the Three Cultures) owes its name to the presence of elements of 3 cultures:

• Tenochtitlan culture: pyramids and Aztec ruins. Here was the famous Tlatelolco market, with products from all over Mesoamerica!
• Spanish culture: The church and convent of Santiago from colonial times.
• Modern Mexican culture: Tlatelolco Tower where the University Cultural Centre and the UNAM’s 68th anniversary memorial are located.

It is quite unusual to see all this in the same place. It is a good idea to have a guide to understand its importance and transcendence.

• Address: Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas corner Flores Magón, Nonoalco, Tlatelolco, Mexico City. Open every day from 8 am to 5 pm. Admission is 75 pesos. Web site

21. Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe

With around 20 million visitors a year, it is the most visited Catholic monument after St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

The basilica is dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe, the patron saint of Mexico City, Mexico, and Latin America . It is definitely a place to see and visit in Mexico City!

There are two main buildings: The old basilica, completed in 1709, and the new basilica, completed in 1976 because the old building threatened to collapse due to subsidence of the ground.

Today, the building has been reinforced, but as soon as you enter, you can feel the pressure of the structure, it is impressive!

The new basilica is a modern structure that can accommodate up to 40,000 people . Masses are celebrated all day long. You have to go down to see the most important relic of the place: the ayate de Tepeyac with the image of the Virgin.

Also located on the site are: The Parish of Santa Maria de Guadalupe, “Capuchinas”, the Capilla del Pocito (Chapel of the Little Well)  and the Old Parrish of the Indians.

• Address: Plaza de Las Americas 1, Villa de Guadalupe, Gustavo A. Madero, Mexico City. Free admission

22. Museum of Popular Art

Right in front of the Alameda Central is located an important art deco style building called Museo de Arte Popular.

It contains 2600 pieces of mexican folk art (ceramics, silver, wood, glass, paper, etc.) classified by themes: fantasy, roots of popular art, daily life, and the sacred, as well as a room with temporary exhibitions.

• Address: Revillagigedo 11, Colonia Centro. Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm
• Admission is 60 pesos, with free admission for children under 18 and seniors, and free admission on Sundays
• Web site

23. San Juan Market

Located in the heart of the city center and with 150 years of existence, this is one of the oldest markets in the Mexican capital, which has become an important place to visit in Mexico City for food lovers.

If you have a curious palate, this is the place to visit because, in addition to the usual products, you will find several exotic meats such as ostrich, iguana, crocodile, paca (a large rodent that lives in tropical areas of America), armadillo and even skunk.

And even more: you can find a huge multitude of insects! Scorpions, crickets (chapulines), agave worms (or maguey worms), frogs, snails, and others that have been eaten since pre-Hispanic times.

Not feeling so adventurous? Then you can choose from one of the kiosks selling cheese and charcuterie. I‘ve made some interesting discoveries of Mexican cheeses and charcuteries, which you can taste on the spot, accompanied by a good glass of wine with mexican cheeses on site!

• Address: 2ᵃ Calle de Ernesto Pugibet 21, Colonia Centro, Mexico City. Monday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m

24. Monument to the Revolution

From the Alameda Central taking the Avenida Juárez after the Avenida de la República one comes across an impressive structure located in the centre of the Plaza de la Republica: the Monumento a la Revolucion.

It is a mausoleum dedicated to the heroes of the Mexican Revolution, among them, Pancho Villa. It is considered the highest triumphal arch in the world.

You will also find: the Museum of the Revolution with a collection of 400 pieces, the panoramic elevator, the intermediate viewpoint (65.7 m) to admire the 360º view and the Lantern with a fantastic view of the surroundings.

When night falls, don’t miss the play of water and lights of the Centennial Fountain in the Plaza de la República.

• Address: Plaza de la República, Mexico City.
• Admission is 120 pesos or 100 pesos for children under 13 years old
• Open Monday to Thursday from 12h to 20h, Friday to Saturday from 12h to 21h, and Sunday from 11h to 20h
• Web site

25. Zona Rosa

Located in Colonia Juárez, the zona Rosa of Mexico City is one of the most touristy and lively corners of the capital.

In fact, it has several hotels, restaurants, galleries and exchange offices, although people tend to go there mainly for partying, it also has several cabarets, discos and bars to suit all tastes.

This is the gay district of Mexico City, located mainly around Amberes St. If you are looking for atmosphere, the Zona Rosa will not disappoint you!

26. Ángel de la Independencia and Paseo de la Reforma

The Angel of Independence at Paseo de la Reforma is one of the great symbols of Mexico City.

Inaugurated in 1910 for the centenary of the Mexican independence represents Niké, the Greek goddess of the Victory. It is a seven-ton bronze statue covered in twenty-four carat gold.

The Paseo de la Reforma is the most important avenue of the capital.

It has an extension of 15 km, connects several areas of the city, and is home to important sites of interest in Mexico City such as the Angel of Independence, the tallest skyscraper in Mexico City – Torre Reforma tower, the Diana Cazadora Fountain or the monument to Cuauhtémoc.

27. Glorieta de los Insurgentes

It is one of the main roundabouts in Mexico City, located at the intersection of Chapultepec and Insurgentes avenues.

It is a large pedestrian area that connects the Zona Rosa with the colonia Roma Norte through ten passageways.

It contains several small shops and the Insurgentes metro station. Sooner or later, we all end up passing through there!

28. Chapultepec Castle

The Castillo de Chapultepec was the residence of emperor Maximilian and his wife Carlota in 1864.

The castle contains furniture, tapestries, gardens, 17th and 18th century paintings, works by Orozco and Siqueiros (artists of Mexican muralism), and the National Museum of History.

From the castle you have a great view of Mexico City!

• Admission is 90 pesos, and free for children under 13 years and adults over 60 years old
• Open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9am to 5pm.
• Website

You can also book your visit to Chapultepec Castle and the Museum of Anthropology, including guide and tickets, here:

I book the visit to Chapultepec Castle and the Museum of Anthropology!I buy my tickets with guided tour easily

29. Bosque de Chapultepec

The Chapultepec Park, also called Bosque de Chapultepec, is an immense green space of 500 hectares that includes a hill.

It is the second largest urban park in Latin America and has several sculptures, fountains, gardens, a lake, restaurants, and museums.

This is what you can see in Chapultepec:

• Chapultepec Castle: a magnificent 18th century palace on top of the hill, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding area .

• National Museum of Anthropology: one of the most important museums of the American continent, it has an immense collection on the different cultures of Mesoamerica and the indigenous peoples of present-day Mexico. Buy your tickets here!

• Museum of Modern Art: has a collection of modern Mexican art (from 1895 to 1955), as well as temporary exhibitions. Admission 70 pesos. Open Tue-Sun from 10.15 am to 5.30 pm. Website

• Museo de arte contemporáneo Rufino Tamayo: a collection of 315 works by the most renowned artists of the second half of the 20th century, such as Picasso and Miró .It also hosts temporary exhibitions. Admission: $85 pesos. Website

• Botanical Garden: Where you will find beautiful examples of cacti, agaves, and orchids.

• Natural History Museum: dedicated to biodiversity. Open Tue-Sun from 10 h to 5pm. Admission $32 pesos, $15.00 pesos for children from 3 to 12 years old, and free admission for adults over 60 years old and children under 3 years old . Website

• Centro Cultural Casa del Lago: located in a building near the lake, it houses a small gallery, and offers shows and special events. Open Tue-Sun, from 11am to 6pm. Website

• The National Auditorium: it is considered one of the most important performance halls in the world and can hold up to 10000 people.

30. National Museum of Anthropology

Love at first sight! With its 23 rooms for exhibits on 8 acres, this is the largest museum in Mexico and one of the most important museums in the world.

The museum is divided into two sections: the archaeological collection and the ethnography collection.

• The archaeology collection includes artifacts from the different cultures that have formed Mexico, divided into different rooms: the American settlement, the preclassic period of the Central Altiplano, Teotihuacan, the Toltecs, Mexicas (Aztecs), the Oaxacan Cultures, the Gulf Coast cultures, the Mayas, the Western cultures, and the Northern cultures.
• The ethnographic collection I found was the most interesting, as it allows you to understand the cultural identity of the indigenous peoples that make up Mexico, with their way of life, their traditional clothing and textiles, handicrafts, beliefs, agriculture, and much more!

There is also a collection of very impressive artifacts such as:

• The Sun Stone (cuauhxicalli), one of the most famous works of Aztec art.
• A replica of Montezuma’s headdress, the feathered crown of Montezuma II
• The statue of Xochipilli, a statue carved around the 16th century representing the Aztec goddess of art, games and dance.
• The replica of the Tomb of King Pakal (Mayan governor, “K’inich Janaab Pakal I”), the original being located in Palenque, Chiapas. There is a magnificent jade mask and several objects that were also uncovered when the mausoleum was discovered in 1952.
• The Mayan Hall contains several reproductions such as the Chac Mool of Chichen Itza, paintings of Bonampak, or the temple of Hochob in the region of Campeche in the garden.

You cannot understand the scale and richness of this museum before setting foot in it. In fact, it deserves the top position of places to see and visit in Mexico City!

Book your visit to the anthropology museum

To enjoy the anthropology museum to the fullest, these are the 4 different tickets you can pick from (click on the tour name to book it)

Ticket	Descripction	Price (may vary)
Anthropology Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket	Admission to the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City	9$ usd
Museum Admission + Guided Visit	Anthropology Museum Guided Visit	23$ usd
Anthropology Museum + Chapultepec Castle	Guided tour of the Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Castle	41$ usd
Anthropology Museum + Chapultepec Castle (private)	Guided visit to the Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Castle with pick-up (private tour)	270$ usd

• Open Tue-Sat from 10am to 5pm (I suggest you arrive at 10am because there is so much to see). Web site

31. Polanco

Polanco is the elegant neighborhood of Mexico City. There are embassies, restaurants, boutiques and hotels, luxury, but also beautiful green areas. A safe and pleasant place to walk in Mexico City.

Here’s what to do and see in Polanco:

• Museo Soumaya: a free museum with unique architecture. It has a collection of 66,000 pieces done by great painters and sculptors, truly a must-see in Mexico City!
• Museo Jumex: the largest private collection of contemporary art in Latin America!
• Shopping: Avenida Presidente Masaryk is one of the most expensive streets in the capital. It is home to several luxury boutiques. Also visit the Palacio de Hierro and the Antara Shopping Mall.

32. Coyoacán and the House of Frida Kahlo

 Coyoacán is one of my favorite places in the city!

It is a traditional neighborhood of cobblestone streets and small plazas with churches.

It has a bohemian atmosphere, with many cafes, art galleries, cultural centers, and restaurants. Coyoacán is better known as the neighborhood of Frida Kahlo.

The area is frequented by artists and intellectuals, but also by families who, during the weekend, come to stroll through the different markets and enjoy the entertainment offered by street performers (mimes, clowns, etc.).

Here are some of the main tourist attractions of Coyoacán:

• Francisco Sosa Street: it links the Church of San Antonio de Padua with the Jardin del Centenario. There are several beautiful houses and important attractions including the Fonoteca Nacional, the Casa de Cultura Jesús Reyes de Heroles and the Plaza Santa Catarina.

• Plaza Jardín Hidalgo: is the second most visited place in the capital. It is home to the Jardín del Centenario and the Fuente de los Coyotes, the San Juan Bautista church, and the Museo Nacional de las Culturas Populares (National Museum of Popular Cultures).

• Frida Kahlo Museum: Frida’s famous Casa Azul (blue house) where she lived with Diego Rivera. In addition to discovering the house and the objects of her daily life, you will be able to see part of her work and that of other artists who frequented the place.

• Viveros de Coyoacán: A large green space where a great variety of tree species grow for reforestation. It is an ideal place to walk, run, and get a good dose of oxygen.

Don’t forget to visit the local markets where you can find good, beautiful and cheap food, the small flowery streets, and the charming squares.

• Read more: Check out My complete guide to visit Coyoacán with attractions, restaurants, and hotel recommendations!

33. Azteca Stadium

The Azteca Stadium is one of the most famous stadiums in the world.

It is the only one that has hosted two FIFA finals: Italy vs. Brazil in 1970 and Germany vs. Argentina in 1986. It is possible to attend a match of Club America, the Mexico City team, or the Mexican national team called the Tricolor.

• You will find all the dates on the official website
• Address: Calz. de Tlalpan 3465, Coyoacan, Mexico.

34. San Angel and Chimalistac

In the same spirit as Coyoacán (but less touristy) are the typical neighborhoods of San Ángel and Chimalistac. They are contiguous neighborhoods in the south of Mexico City with narrow, cobblestone and flowery streets, old buildings, plazas, gardens, and local markets.

What to see in San Angel:

• The architectural heritage, in baroque, neoclassical and neocolonial styles: Casa del Mayorazgo de los Fagoaga, Centro Cultural San Angel, Casa del Obispo Madrid, Casa de Chucho el Roto, Casa de la Plaza de los Licenciados, Casa de la Marquesa de Selva Nevada, Casa Blanca, Casa del Risco or Casa Azul (not to be confused with Frida’s Casa Azul).
• Casa del Risco: 18th century residence located in front of the San Jacinto Garden, which contains 600 pieces of sculpture and painting.
• Plaza del Carmen: a beautiful square, a meeting point for painters
• Museo del Carmen: with the most important collection of colonial religious art in Mexico.
• Casa Estudio Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo Museum

What to see in Chimalistac:

• Walk along the beautiful Santa and Calle de Hipo streets
• Federico Gamboa Square (or Plaza Chimalistac)
• Cámara del Secreto: Also called Ermita del Secreto, it was built by the Carmelites in 1620 to provide a place to meditate or pray in total calmness.
• Casona de Chimalistac: an old house that holds numerous books and manuscripts on the history of Mexico.
• Table Park: a beautiful and peaceful green space

If you don’t want to miss any of these picturesque corners of Mexico City, you can take this guided tour of San Angel and Chimalistac that includes the pick up at your hotel:

35. Trajinera ride in Xochimilco

Several centuries ago, different bodies of water covered the region.

In order to provide sustenance to the dense population, the Aztecs filled portions of the lake with chinampas, a kind of artificial island that served for cultivation.

Over time, the lake became narrower and narrower and what remains of it today are the canals of Xochimilco.

Today you can tour the canals in one of the famous trajineras (traditional and colorful wooden boats).

On your journey through the canals, you will find several boats with food and drink vendors and mariachis! Imagine the festive atmosphere (especially on weekends) a multitude of colorful boats and traditional Mexican music! It is a unique activity to do in Mexico City.

• Check out: How to Visit Xochimilco (Mexico City): The Ultimate Guide!

Things to see also in Xochimilco:

• Xochimilco Market: the ideal place to go to buy fresh supplies much cheaper than in the canals.
• Isla de las Muñecas: an island open to the public where the hermit Julian Santana Barrera has collected thousands of dolls. It takes two hours to get there by boat.
• Dolores Olmedo Museum: The largest collection of Diego Rivera’s works located in a 17th century hacienda.

Beware of the price! Obviously you have to negotiate, but it is good to know that the government has set a maximum price per hour of $500 pesos, but prices are negotiated on the spot. It is not a price per person, but per boat, no matter the number of people.

36. The archaeological site of Teotihuacan

Built from the year 100, Teotihuacan was one of the largest cities of its time. At its peak, under the reign of the Aztec empire, it had up to 250,000 inhabitants! It had great commercial and political influence in Mesoamerica.

Today it is one of the main places to visit near Mexico City and one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico .

What to see in Teotihuacan:

• The Pyramid of the Sun, the highest of all (213 ft) and the Pyramid of the Moon (148 ft) 
• The Citadel, formed by the Great Plaza and the temple of Quetzalcoatl (or Temple of the Feathered Serpent), which was the heart of the city.
• The Avenue of the Dead
• The Palace of Quetzalpapálotl where the elite resided
• The Palace of the Jaguars and the Temple of the Feathered Snails
• The Teotihuacan Museum

Visiting Teotihuacan

• You can take a bus to Teotihuacan at Terminal del Norte, gate 8 (departures every 20 minutes. One hour trip, $50 pesos. Buy a round trip). It is best to arrive early because there is a lot to see.
• Opens daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
• Admission is 90 pesos. Includes the museum.

37. Fly over Teotihuacan

For the ultimate experience, you can fly over Teotihuacan in a hot-air balloon.

For around 45 minutes, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the entire archaeological zone and the Teotihuacan Valley.

Needless to say, since it’s no longer possible to climb to the top of the pyramids, places are going even faster, so I suggest you book well in advance to make sure you get the date you want.

38. Exploring the great works of muralism

Chances are you’ve already heard of Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo’s husband.

He is one of the most recognized artists of Mexican muralism, along with José Clemente Orozco and David Alfaro Siqueiros, which is an artistic movement that developed in the early 20th century.

In downtown Mexico City you can find beautiful examples of muralist works, such as in the Secretaría de Educación Pública, the Colegio de San Ildefonso, and the Palacio Nacional.

Don’t miss Diego Rivera’s “The History of Mexico” at the National Palace!

If you are interested in art, I recommend you take the guided tour on Mexican muralism, which will allow you to learn a lot about this movement. Book it here:

39. Discovering Street Art

Mexico City is far from being a gray city. On the contrary, it is a dynamic city where many Mexican and international artists decide to leave their colourful mark.

You can easily see beautiful examples of street art walking through the streets of the Colonias Roma, Condesa, Juarez, but also in other places like the historic centre, the Doctores, etc.

To discover the street art of Mexico City, its artists, and their messages, I suggest this guided bike tour that will take you through various areas of the capital. And you can also take the opportunity to try some street food!

You can book it here:

40.  Chocolate Museum

The MUCHO is a museum dedicated to chocolate, offering a guided tour to discover its origins, the cultivation of cocoa, its importance to Mesoamerican cultures and its evolution up to its arrival in Europe.

There’s also a store selling top-quality handmade chocolates at an attractive price (ideal as a gift), but you’ll probably want to head to the museum’s café for a good chocolate because of the aroma that wafted through the air throughout the visit!

Buy your tickets for the Chocolate Museum here:

• Calle Milán 45, Colonia Juárez, México
• Open from 11am to 5pm

Family-friendly activities in Mexico City

Traveling as a family? Here’s what to do in Mexico City with kids:

41. Museum of antique Mexican toys

MUJAM is an unusual, chaotic, yet fascinating museum.

There are 45,000 pieces spread over six rooms on several floors, with corners dedicated to Barbie, King Kong, dolls, robots, the circus, and wrestling. From small figures to large structures, there’s so much to look at!

Before leaving, don’t miss the parking lot decorated with impressive murals.

• Address: Dr. Olivera 15, Col. Doctores, Mexico City.
• Open Mon-Fri from 9 am to 6 pm, Sat from 9 am to 4 pm, and Sun from 10 am to 4 pm.
• Admission is 75 pesos
• Facebook

42. Papalote Children’s Museum

Located in Chapultepec Park, the Papalote is a museum with exhibits on science, technology and art, designed especially for children.

There are around 288 interactive exhibits spread over six thematic rooms, each with a space dedicated to younger children (5 years old and under) . There is also a Mayan garden with a pyramid to explore.

In addition, the museum houses are some of the largest IMAX theaters in the world.

This is, without a doubt, the place to visit with children in Mexico City!

• Web site

43. Natural History Museum

Also located in Chapultepec the museum contains about 2275 pieces related to biodiversity, and a collection of 55,000 insects.

But the big star! A replica of the skeleton of a Diplodocus carnegii, a dinosaur that lived in the western United States, 150 million years ago!

• Admission is 32 pesos, 15 pesos for children 3 to 12 years old

44. Six Flags Park

Here there are attractions for the whole family, some of them being very adrenaline-pumping (such as CraZanity, which breaks the world record for the highest pendulum in the world – 164ft!).

But there are also areas for children such as Bugs Bunny Boomtown and DC Super Friends.

• Click on the link to buy your Six Flags ticket with transportation (very convenient if you don’t have a car!)

45. Universum

A museum dedicated to science and technology, which belongs to the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). It has thirteen rooms with exhibits on different topics: health, evolution, the universe (there are moonstones that have been donated by NASA!), the brain, etc.

Also, don’t miss the Golem, a robot designed to interact with children.

• Admission is 90 pesos, 80 pesos for children under 12 years old , and children under 2 years old do not pay ticket.
• Web site

How many days to visit Mexico City?

Mexico City is a huge city, even a month would not be enough to discover all it has to offer!

To help you make the most out of your stay in Mexico City, here are my suggested itineraries for visiting Mexico City in 1, 2, 3 and 4 days:

What to do in Mexico City in 1 day

The Capital is immense and if you don’t have more than 1 day in Mexico City, you will have to choose.

Fortunately, with a little organization, you will be able to see several must-see sites.

• Early in the morning, head to the viewpoint of the Latin American Tower for a breathtaking view of the city.
• Take the pedestrian street Francisco I. Madero (on the way take a picture of the Casa de los Azulejos!) to the Zocalo.
• Visit the Cathedral and take the tour of the Templo Mayor, everything is very close.
• Discover National Palace with works of great Mexican artists such as Diego Rivera.
• It should be lunchtime by now, so head over to the San Juan Market where you can sample the famous insects. If that doesn’t appeal to you, there are also several cheap kiosks (tacos, seafood, etc.). One block from the market is the Pulqueria Los Duelistas perfect for tasting some pulque, a traditional fermented drink.
• Then visit the magnificent Palace of Fine Arts and stroll through the Alameda Central. If you still have energy, visit the Museum of Popular Art.
• It’s time to leave the center to get to know the neighborhoods: Roma and Condesa. Feel free to get lost in these streets, among stores, cafes, and street art. This is the perfect place to have a drink at night.

Don’t miss my ultimate itinerary: 1 Day in Mexico City

2 days in Mexico City

On the first day, follow the suggested program above.

• On the morning of day two, go to Teotihuacan. This visit will take you all day, but it is really worth it, there is so much to see!
• After some rest (you’ll need it after Teotihuacan), go to a lucha libre fight!

Check out my detailed article: 2 Days in Mexico City

3 days in Mexico City

If you are looking for an itinerary in Mexico City for 3 days, you can follow the program for day 1 and 2:

• Spend the entire morning of the third day at the great National Museum of Anthropology
• Stroll through the Chapultepec Park and visit the Chapultepec Castle
• Now head south and discover the Coyoacán neighborhood, you are sure to find a nice restaurant for lunch
• Walk through its streets and squares, and don’t forget to visit the Frida’s  Casa Azul
• At night you will find many very nice bars to have a drink

Check out my extensive article: 3 Days in Mexico City

4 Days in Mexico City

To see Mexico City in 4 days, you can follow the program of day 1, 2 and 3. On the 4th day:

• In the morning, take a ride on a trajinera through the canals of Xochimilco
• In the afternoon, stroll through Coyoacán, the charming neighborhood of Frida Kahlo. Discover El Mercado de Coyoacán, the Jardín Centenario, the Jardín Hidalgo, and of course Frida’s Casa Azul (House and Museum).

You can get your tickets for Casa Azul (click here) or book the complete tour (click here) that includes the pick-up at your hotel, the ride on a trajinera through the canals of Xochimilco and the visit to the Frida Kahlo museum.

My advice: Don’t miss all the details in my 4-day itinerary in Mexico City!

Staying in Mexico City

• Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral (historic center): one of the best hostels in Mexico City. Clean dorms and rooms, amazing rooftop terrace with bar, great atmosphere and an exceptional view over the cathedral and the Zocalo, starting at 15$usd for a dorm and 32 $usd for a private room!

• Hotel Villa Condesa (Condesa): if you are looking for a romantic hotel in Mexico City, this is a little oasis in the heart of La Condesa. It is an elegant house with small green terraces and tastefully decorated rooms. Rooms are spacious, breakfast is very good and the service is particularly attentive. Around 160$usd per night!

• Casa Goliana (Roma Norte): high-end hotel with the best value for money in its category, located in an early 20th century house, typical of the Roma area. Rooftop terrace, comfortable rooms, very attentive staff, and good breakfasts. Around 190$usd per night

• Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City (Juarez): this 5 star hotel is one of the best hotels in Mexico City, ideal for a business trip or a romantic stay. Located on Paseo de la Reforma between Colonia Juarez and Roma Norte. A large indoor garden, gym, swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar, Around 640$usd per night!

Where to buy souvenirs in Mexico City?

The best place to buy souvenirs in Mexico City is undoubtedly La Ciudadela, located in the center.

It’s a huge market selling souvenirs from all over Mexico (keychains, plates from Puebla, magnets, textiles from Tlaxcala, souvenirs with Frida Kahlo, lucha libre masks, typical Mexican sweets, alebrijes, etc.).

If you can’t find what you want at La Ciudadela Crafts Market, you won’t find it anywhere else – it’s that simple!

After visiting the market countless times (and getting lost every time with my amazing sense of direction 🤣), I can say that my 2 absolute must-stops are:

1) San Germán (aisle 1, room number 6): a real gem for beautiful handmade ceramic tableware (bowls, plates, etc.) straight from Tonalá (Guadalajara region). This is quality, at a very fair price, and not the “Made in China” products you see elsewhere.

2) Ocelotl (Instagram / Facebook): a café and boutique where I love to stop for their “café Ocelotl“, which resembles a traditional olla coffee, with orange zest and spices. When I need a little pick-me-up, I take the option with “piquete”, i.e. a drop of mezcal, and it’s delicious 😉

They have a very surprising collection of mezcals: with scorpion, snake and even mushrooms…

Rent a car in Mexico City

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Mexico and make the most of your stay!

While it’s not super useful to visit the city, having a car is a must to discover the rest of the country.

To rent a car, personally, I always use Rentalcars.com, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Rentalcars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies, so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

Getting around Mexico City

Turibus (hop on and off all day)

This is the city’s tourist bus. As there is a lot of walking in Mexico City so it is a good way to save a little energy and have easy access to the tourist sites of Mexico City.

• The Turibus offers 4 circuits in Mexico City that can be done with the same ticket.
• You can buy a one-day or two-day ticket, which allows you to get on and off the bus as many times as you want.

Buy your tickets here:

Metrobus

The Metrobus network is very extensive, with 7 lines and many lanes reserved for single use, making it a very convenient way to travel cheaply.

Relatively few tourists use the Metrobus, probably because it is hot and crowded (be careful with your pockets), however, it is a very practical option.

• Before boarding you must buy the Tarjeta de la Ciudad (or MB) for 21 pesos, which includes one ride, then you have to load it. Each trip costs 6 pesos
• The ride to the airport (Ruta Norte, line 4) costs 30 pesos
• You can download the Mexico City Metrobus map here.

Uber

I can’t deny it: it’s my favorite option!

Especially because Uber is usually cheaper and safer than regular cabs and they have always provided me with a good service.

It allows you to go almost everywhere safely (very useful especially at night!), and you can always see on the app’s map exactly where you are (and the route the car follows).

Ecobici

A public bike system (some are electric) that offers an ecological option to get to different places to visit in Mexico City. It has 480 bike stations with room for 6800 bikes in 38 km².

First, register in the app, which you can download here [Android – iPhone], then go to a bike terminal (with a credit card). 

Ecobici offers a variety of short-term subscription options, beginning with a one-day plan for 118 pesos and extending to three days, one week, or annual plans. Prices include unlimited use of bicycles for trips of maximum 45 min.

• Ecobici website

How to find the best price for your flight ticket

Mexico City Airport officially named Benito-Juárez International Airport receives a lot of national and international flights. It is the most important airport in Latin America!

To save money on flight tickets, you can use our flight comparator for Mexico, in partnership with Skyscanner: it’s the guarantee to pay the best price for your international and domestic flights!

How to get from Mexico City airport to your hotel?

There are several safe ways to get from the Benito Juarez International Airport to your hotel.

By private transportation

A good and safe option to get from the airport to the hotel is to book a private car with a driver. It can accommodate up to 3 people.

To book, click here:

Uber

Using Uber is a good way to go from Mexico City airport to your hotel. Just tell them which door to meet you at and watch carefully for your car, as it’s often busy there!

Metrobus (line 4)

• Buses arrive every 15 minutes from 4:30 am to midnight, for 30 pesos.
• Departures from Terminal 1 (between gates 6 and 7) or Terminal 2 (first floor, gate 3).
• Approximately 1 hour to reach the historic center. Beware, if you are not staying in the historic center you will have to change lines or take a cab, so it is not an option I recommend at night.

Official airport taxi

At the Mexico City airport there are several taxi companies. First you pay at the taxi stand and they tell you where the taxi waiting line.

Where to change money in Mexico City?

Surprising but true, the best place to change money in Mexico City is the airport!

I have tested many money exchange offices in Mexico City and the airport always offers a slightly better rate.

• Be careful: this is not the case in other cities in Mexico, like Cancun airport for example.

When to visit Mexico City

One of the great advantages of the capital is that you can visit all year round!

• Winter is cool, but quite pleasant

• Summer, especially from June to September, is rainy, but not paralyzing. It can be quite gray (the sun appears for a few hours around noon) and rain falls almost every afternoon (around 4 p.m., rarely in the morning or for long). It’s the same almost every day, so it’s just a matter of being well organized.

The best time to visit Mexico City is from March to May when the city is at its most beautiful and flowery. It is not too hot and there is practically no rain.

November is also a good time to visit Mexico City because during the first two days of the month the famous Day of the Dead festivities are celebrated.

• To explore all the exciting activities in Mexico City during this time of year, be sure to check out My Definitive Guide to the Day of the Dead! 

Tourist map of Mexico

Here is a handy map with everything there is to see in Mexico City, with all the mentioned attractions, restaurants, and hotels!

You’re traveling in Mexico? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mexico: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico

• 1 Day in Mexico City – How to spend  just 24h in the Mexican capital
• 2 Days in Mexico City – The perfect itinerary for 48h!
• 3 Days in Mexico City – The Best Itinerary + Where to Stay
• 4 Days in Mexico City – Your Four-Day Must-See Guide

• Mexico City on a Budget: Guide + All my Best Tips to Save Money
• The Definitive Guide to 40 Best Free Things to Do in Mexico City

• Teotihuacan (Mexico City): The Definitive Guide + Tips
• How to Visit Xochimilco (Mexico City): The Ultimate Guide
• Coyoacán (Mexico City): the Best Things to Do in Frida Kahlo’s Neighborhood
• Day of the Dead (Mexico): How to Celebrate Día de Muertos Like a Local
• 40+ Wifi Cafes in Mexico City that Every Digital Nomad Should Know About
• Muralism in Mexico City: The Essential Guide to the Best Murals

• Itinerary: 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mexico – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary: 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico: The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month

• Itinerary: 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary: 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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