Mexico City can be overwhelming for first-time visitors due to its size, but there are plenty of great tours that help you explore like a local and soak up its rich history, culture, and food. You can also enjoy some fun day trips from the city.
I’ve been living in Mexico City for over five years, and I owe my extensive knowledge of the city mostly to the amazing tour guides I’ve met along the way. The historical depth of the city and its incredible food culture are truly captivating.
Before becoming the capital of Mexico, Mexico City was the capital of the Spanish colony of New Spain and, before that, the Aztecs built their empire here. You can still see remnants of this history at places like the Mexico City Cathedral.
For those interested in history, Urban Adventures offers a comprehensive historical tour called “Hidden Mexico City,” in partnership with Lonely Planet. This group tour costs $64 per person and covers key historical sites such as Templo Mayor, Zocalo, and Palacio de Bellas Artes. The tour ends with a visit to Mercado San Juan where you can savor indigenous foods and learn to make tortillas.
Journeys Beyond the Surface offers private, customizable tours led by local historians. A full or half-day tour can vary in price, starting at $200.
There’s also a free walking tour of Mexico City available twice daily. This tip-based tour covers the historical center, including landmarks like Catedral Metropolitana and Palacio Nacional. Tips of $5-10 per person are welcomed at the end.
For food enthusiasts, Devoured offers fantastic food tours across the city. Owner Anais, a local culinary arts expert, will guide you through Mexico City’s best eats and their histories. If you’re short on time, Tasty Bites offers the “Top Chef Culinary Adventure,” a tour of the best restaurants in the Roma and Condesa neighborhoods.
A taco tour is perfect for a quick visit, offering a chance to sample various tacos and beverages while learning about Mexico City’s food culture from a friendly guide.
A day trip to Teotihuacan, the ancient pyramids near Mexico City, is highly recommended. Private tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off, a bilingual guide, entry fees, and meals. You can even opt for a hot air balloon ride over the ruins. Group tours often include stops at the Shrine of Guadalupe and the Plaza de Tres Culturas, ending with lunch near the pyramids. Prices start at $35.
Xochimilco is another popular spot, especially on weekends. Float down the canals in colorful boats, enjoy live mariachi music, and buy food and drinks from passing vendors. Going with a tour is advisable for convenience and safety, especially for non-Spanish speakers.
Lucha Libre, Mexico’s version of theatrical wrestling, is a cultural highlight. Tours often include a drink beforehand, guide assistance with translations, and an introduction to the wrestling culture, complete with some Mexican-style snacks and drinks.
Market tours are a must to understand Mexican culture. Casa Jacaranda offers a market tour and cooking class where you shop for ingredients and prepare a meal. Alternatively, explore Mercado Merced with a guide, learning about Mexican ingredients and sampling street foods.
For those interested in the pre-Columbian Xochimilcos, tours with companies like Mexico Underground offer a deep dive into the area’s history and sustainable farming practices. This includes visits to ancient farms, learning about traditional cultivation techniques, and even sampling local produce and beverages.
Biking is a great way to see Mexico City’s tree-lined streets and parks. The Street Art Bike Tour combines cycling with food stops and insights into the local art scene, suitable for relatively fit participants due to the city’s altitude.
For hikers, the nearby mountains offer challenging treks. The Nevado de Toluca is a popular choice for experienced hikers, with tours including transportation, park fees, and meals.
Day trips to Puebla and Cholula are also an option. Private tours can be customized to focus on specific interests like Talavera pottery and mole restaurants. Cholula, known for its large pyramid, is just a short drive from Puebla. Full-day tours from Mexico City cover historical sites, local culture, and cuisine.
Mexico City offers endless activities and tours, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. Whether you’re interested in history, natural beauty, or culinary delights, you’ll find a tour that fits your interests.
