Mexico City is a vibrant metropolis packed with history, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, the best excursions in Mexico City offer something for everyone.
As someone who has explored this dynamic city firsthand, I can confidently say that every corner holds a story waiting to be uncovered.
One of the must-visit destinations is Teotihuacán, home to the iconic Pyramids of the Sun and Moon. Just an hour from the city, this ancient site lets you step back in time to explore one of the most powerful civilizations of Mesoamerica. If you're drawn to nature, a trip to Xochimilco is a must. Here, you can float down colorful canals on a traditional trajinera, enjoying live mariachi music and local cuisine.
For food lovers, a Mexico City street food tour is essential. Tasting authentic tacos al pastor, tamales, and churros will immerse you in the city’s rich culinary heritage. If you prefer art and culture, the Frida Kahlo Museum, located in the charming Coyoacán neighborhood, provides an intimate look at the life of Mexico’s most famous artist.
From the bustling markets of Mercado de Coyoacán to the breathtaking views from Chapultepec Castle, these excursions showcase the heart and soul of Mexico City.
Best Excursions to Discover Mexico City
1. Teotihuacan
This is without a doubt the best day trip from Mexico City. Teotihuacan, the legendary “City of the Gods,” was one of the most important and prosperous pre-Hispanic settlements in Mesoamerica, and its legacy greatly influenced later civilizations. Today, this archaeological site is famous for its imposing pyramids of the Sun and the Moon , which rise in the middle of the valley, and for the Causeway of the Dead , the main axis around which the city was distributed.
We think it's an ideal plan to learn a little bit about the country's history and delve into the Teotihuacan culture , one of the great civilizations of antiquity, full of mysteries, symbolism and traditions. Don't miss it!
How to get there : It is located an hour and a half from CDMX and you can get there on your own by bus (from the North Terminal), although it is preferable to do so on a guided tour that includes other visits , such as the Basilica of Guadalupe and Tlatelolco.
2. Basilica of Guadalupe
According to Christian tradition, in 1531 the Virgin Mary appeared to the indigenous Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin on Tepeyac Hill , near Mexico City. To convince the bishop, Juan Diego showed him the tilma where the Virgin had left her image imprinted, and upon seeing the miracle, the bishop ordered the construction of a temple in her honor, right on the site of the apparitions.
Since then, the country's Christian community has revered the Virgin of Guadalupe as a symbol of faith, identity and national unity, and millions of devotees flock here each year to pay their respects. So it's no wonder that the Basilica of Guadalupe is one of the most popular excursions in Mexico City.
During the visit you will be able to see the Old Basilica , an architectural gem built between the 16th and 17th centuries to protect the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe and which, unfortunately, is currently suffering from the instability of the ground. You will also be able to access the New Basilica , an impressive modern construction that has housed the famous tilma since 1976. Or climb to the top of the hill to enjoy a wonderful panoramic view.
How to get there : the Guadalupe Sanctuary is located in the north of Mexico City and is fairly well connected by public transport, with metro line 6 (station «La Villa y Basílica»), metro line 3 (station «Indios Verdes») and several urban bus lines, so you can plan your visit on your own without any problem. But we think it would be interesting to include it in a full-day guided tour, such as the aforementioned tour to Teotihuacán, Basilica of Guadalupe and Tlatelolco .
3. Coyoacán – Art and Bohemian Flavor
The Coyoacán neighborhood, chosen by Frida Kahlo's family as a residence away from the hustle and bustle of the big metropolis, was one of the great surprises we took away from the trip. It is a quiet and pleasant area , ideal for strolling through its cobbled streets and squares, discovering its colorful houses or enjoying a hot chocolate and a sweet bread in one of its cafes.
Its history dates back to pre-Hispanic and colonial times, during which it was an important political and cultural center . Today it stands out for its bohemian atmosphere, its cultural vibe and, of course, for housing one of the essential attractions in Mexico City: the Frida Kahlo Museum , popularly known as the Blue House.
How to get there : the best way to get there is by Uber (it takes about 30-45 minutes from the center), although you can also get around by subway, which is also much cheaper (5 pesos). And once there, we recommend you sign up for this free tour of Coyoacán , ideal for getting to know the neighborhood with a local guide. Or if you prefer, make the most of the day with this Coyoacán + Xochimilco tour .
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4. Xochimilco, the most fun getaway from Mexico City
Another highly recommended, fun and original getaway from CDMX is to spend the day in Xochimilco. This corner south of the capital is considered the last vestige of the network of chinampas , or floating gardens, that the ancient Mexicas used to cultivate in the middle of the lake.
Nowadays, it is visited by taking a ride on trajineras , colorfully decorated boats, usually with women's names (although don't be surprised to see one called "La Tóxica" or other funny phrases) that navigate the canals in a super festive atmosphere . You will share space with hundreds of Mexicans and other tourists, mariachis, boats that offer margaritas and micheladas, others that sell corn on the cob and other delicacies. It is so unique and special that it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Are you going to miss it?
How to experience it : Currently, trajineras cost $750 per hour (the price is per boat, not per person), although a popular option is to take the Coyoacán + Xochimilco tour . If you want to go on your own, calculate an hour's UBER ride from downtown CDMX (or about half an hour from Coyoacán), although it depends on traffic.
5. San Miguel de Allende
This city is one of those that you fall in love with at first sight, with its cobblestone streets, colonial mansions and an atmosphere that seems to have stopped in time. It is no coincidence that it is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mexico, and here every corner has something to tell.
The main jewels of San Miguel de Allende are the Parish of San Miguel Arcángel , which with its reddish, neo-Gothic façade is one of the most representative churches in Mexico, the Handicraft Market , perfect for buying a handmade souvenir, and the panoramic view from the lookout point , which leaves you speechless at sunset.
But beyond the key points, the best thing about San Miguel is getting lost in its streets, discovering small shops, trying some local wine and enjoying its magic on every corner. And although it is a bit far from Mexico City, it is totally worth the trip, especially if you stay one night!
How to get there : San Miguel de Allende is about a 3-hour drive from Mexico City, but don't worry, there are comfortable buses that connect both cities several times a day. To make the most of your time, there is a tour to San Miguel de Allende , which also includes a visit to Querétaro, another city famous for its colonial architecture.
6. Puebla, another of the best excursions from Mexico City
Puebla is another Mexican corner that offers an unforgettable experience if you decide to visit it from Mexico City on a daily tour. Its impressive colonial architecture, delicious food and relaxed atmosphere will transport you to a place full of history and tradition.
The Puebla Cathedral is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the entire country, and the Amparo Museum is perfect for immersing yourself in Mexican history and art. But for us, the best thing is to try its renowned gastronomy , with such iconic dishes as mole poblano or chiles en nogada. In addition, Puebla is full of picturesque corners, streets with colorful tile facades and craft markets. It is a city that is enjoyed walking and savoring every corner.
How to get there : It’s only a 2-hour bus ride from CDMX (they leave from the Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente – TAPO), so it’s a very interesting day trip… However, our advice is to stay overnight. Do you only have one day? Then this tour of Puebla from CDMX is perfect.
7. Tolantongo Caves
Located in the state of Hidalgo, the Grutas de Tolantongo are a natural wonder that combines waterfalls, rivers and pools of turquoise hot springs . Sounds good, right? And so much so: relaxing in the pools with spectacular views, exploring the caves full of stalactites and stalagmites or taking a dip in the warm river is a perfect plan to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the capital .
Tip : We think it's best to organize a 2-day excursion, since it's quite close to CDMX, about 4 hours by car. But beware, there are also daily tours to the Tolatongo Caves, ideal for those travelers who want to see a lot in a short time.
These are the 7 most interesting excursions from Mexico City for those who want to explore the surroundings of the capital on day trips. But there are many more, both for a few hours and several days, and the fact is that the location of the city is spectacular and Mexico offers so many plans that the post could be almost endless. We can't wait to return to continue exploring Mexico City and its surroundings. We declare ourselves big fans of CDMX.
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