About Mexico City
Mexico's capital is one of the liveliest and largest cities in the world, with a renowned arts and culture scene (an entire district was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and some of the best cuisine in the Western Hemisphere. Founded in 1325 as Tenochtitlan, the city was colonized by the Spanish in 1521 and later dubbed "Mexico." Today at nearly 500 years old, its pre-colonial history is alive throughout much of the modern-day capital. The city is overflowing with opportunities to study the country's rich and blended pas
Getting To Mexico City
To travel to Mexico, U.S. residents require a valid United States passport. You must also fill out a tourist card before arrival. Tourist cards – and the accompanying fee – are usually provided by your airline.
A negative COVID test is not required for U.S. citizens’ entry into Mexico.
Starting on December 6, 2021, air travelers aged two and older, regardless of nationality or vaccination status, are required to show documentation of a negative viral test result taken within one day of the flight’s departure to the United States before boarding. You must show your negative result to the airline before you board your flight. That includes all travelers – U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (LPRs), and foreign nationals.
This means you must schedule a COVID test before leaving Mexico in order to re-enter the United States. We suggest scheduling your test with your hotel.
We will continue to monitor the U.S. State Department website for additional travel requirements.
Mexico City International Airport (Benito Juarez International Airport)
Mexico City International Airport is Mexico’s and Latin America’s busiest airport by passenger traffic and aircraft movements. The airport is served by 30 domestic and international passenger airlines. It is located in the neighborhood of Penon de Los Banos within Venustiano Carranza, one of the sixteen boroughs into which Mexico City is divided. The airport is located approximately three miles east from Downtown Mexico City.
Authorized Mexico City taxis are in operation in Terminals 1 and 2. A taxi ride from the airport into downtown Mexico City costs approximately $15 USD for a standard sedan vehicle.
Please ensure to only travel in taxis authorized by the Ministry of Communications and Transport of the Federal Government.
$1 USD = 20.19 MX
The exchange rate fluctuates constantly so please check the website below frequently! Nearly all establishments accept American debit and credit cards. However, we recommend having pesos on hand for street vendors and smaller shops.
Weather in October
October is one of the best months to visit Mexico City as the climate is dry and mild. The weather will be sunny with temperatures between 75-80 degrees during the day.
We recommend bringing layering options and a jacket because temperatures can drop in the evening.
How to Get Around
The best way to get around Mexico City is via Uber. Driving yourself is not a great idea – either to and from the airport or around town.
We highly recommend traveling throughout Mexico City using Uber.
Eating Around Mexico City
One thing you'll find an abundance of in Mexico City is comida (food). After all, there are almost 9 million people to feed in the city. Chances are you're familiar with some Mexican staples such as tacos, quesadillas and tamales. But there's more to Mexico City's culinary culture.
Below are some of our favorite places to eat and drink:
Restaurants
Pujol
Rosetta
Lalo
Eno
Quesadillas Maria Isabel
Quintonil
Contramar
La Barra de Fran
Beatrecita
Blanco Colima
Taqueria Orinoco
Maximo Bistro
Made Cafe
Specialty Food
Maque Cafe
Panderia Rosetta
Churros El Moro
Ojo de Agua
Bars
The Rooftop at CondesaDF
Gin Gin
King Cole Bar
Loup Bar
Things to Do in Mexico City
There is no shortage of things to do in Mexico City! It is thriving cultural hotspot with an abundance of entertainment attractions and activities. Below is a list of things we recommend you do and see while there:
(Cultural)
Museo Soumayo
Palau I Nacional
Museo Jumex
Frida Kahlo’s Home
Xochimilco
Anthropology Musum
(Shopping)
Onora
LAGO
IKAL Store
Casa Bosques