Mexico City 5-Day Itinerary

How this 5-day Mexico City plan works

CDMX + Teotihuacan + Xochimilco

Each day below is grouped geographically so you spend your time in Mexico City rather than in transit. Metro (12 lines, MX$5/ride) reaches everywhere but gets crowded; Metrobús BRT lines are faster during rush. Uber/Didi are cheap (MX$50–150 per ride, ~US$3–9) and much safer than street taxis — always use apps. AICM airport reaches Centro in 20 min by Metrobús Línea 4. AIFA (new second airport) 40 km north — use Uber only.

Day by day

• Day 1

  Day 1–3 — Centro, Chapultepec, Coyoacán highlights above.

• Day 2

  Day 4 — Teotihuacan sunrise hot-air balloon + pyramids full day.

• Day 3

  Day 5 — Xochimilco trajineras (weekend) + Ciudad Universitaria (Rivera murals).

Where to base yourself

• Centro Histórico

  Zócalo, Templo Mayor, Palacio de Bellas Artes — historic hotels around the square.

• Roma / Roma Norte

  Art nouveau + art deco, taquerías, mezcalerías, boutique hotels — food-scene HQ.

• Condesa

  Tree-lined ovals, cafés, park runs — walkable and safe for solo travellers.

• Polanco

  Luxury shopping, Presidente InterContinental, Four Seasons, St Regis, Michelin-starred Pujol.

Best time to run this itinerary

March–May are dry and warm (22–27°C days, cool nights). June–September is rainy season with intense afternoon thunderstorms and 20–24°C days. October–February are the classic tourist months — dry, 20–24°C, blue skies. Day of the Dead (Nov 1–2) is a must-see cultural event; Semana Santa (Holy Week) packs hotels.

Before you go

• Only use Uber/Didi (never street taxis) — same rules for both airports.

• Altitude 2,240m — first day, drink water, skip alcohol, eat lightly.

• Tipping 10–15% at restaurants + MX$20–50 for hotel porters.