When you typically think of Mexico, you think about a beach getaway. A visit to Mexico City will enlighten you to everything Mexico has to offer. Its one of the largest cities in the world so be prepared for a mass of people, cars and buildings. But it also has a fantastic energy, amazing sites, great food and luxurious hotels. Take a break from the sand and experience a true Mexican holiday.
Begin your exploration of Mexico City with a stroll down the elegant Paseo de la Reforma. Its 12 km long and was built to resemble Paris Champs-Elysees. This amazing avenue is a gateway to many of Mexico Citys popular sites. Youll pass by the Chapultepec Park as well as the Torre Mayor, which is currently Latin Americas tallest building. You can enjoy a fantastic view at its observation deck. The Zona Rosa, the Pink Zone, is also located along the Reforma and is well known for its swanky hotels and great restaurants.
If youre only spending a short time in Mexico City, visit Chapultepec Park. This stunning park is the citys largest spreading over 1,600 acres. During the daytime youll be able to see police dress as traditional Mexican cowboys, giving the park an authentic feeling. The park has many beautiful fountains, walkways, lakes and trees. Over the weekend it serves as a market place filled with crafts and traditional Mexican food. But theres a lot to explore during the week as well. Chapultepec Park has stunning botanical gardens, an amusement park, zoo, playgrounds and fine museums. One of its best history museums can be found at the top of the hill, located in a beautiful castle. Another great museum not to be missed is the National Museum of Anthropology, a wonderful place for Pre-Columbian Mesoamerican art and artifacts. Just north of Chapultepec Park is a great area known as Polanco. Here youll find higher end hotels, restaurants and shops. Alameda Central is just north of Chapultepec Park as well and has many skyscrapers and beautiful boulevards.
The Zocalo is the worlds largest square and is known as Mexico Citys historic district. On either side youll find the beautiful Spanish style Cathedral and the National Palace. But here youll also be able to explore the ancient Aztec temple ruins. The largest cathedral in Latin America is also one of the most stunning cathedrals in Mexico City. The Catedral Metropolitana began construction around the 1570s and it took over 250 years to complete. Although the church is constantly under repair, it continues to draw many visitors because of its stunning architecture and design. Inside youll also find one of the largest organs in the world. One of Mexico Citys most recognizable landmarks is the Angel of Independence, El ngel de la Independencia. This beautiful monument is located on a roundabout in downtown Mexico City.
If you travel just outside the city center, youll come to the Coyoacan and San Angel districts where youll find great cafes, shops, and galleries. The main square in Coyoacan, the Plaza Hidalgo is famous for its cultural atmosphere and is well known to both tourists and locals. The Bazar Sbado is located in San Angel. Although you may find the prices here to be a bit higher than other areas in Mexico City, youll notice the impressive quality, especially with the jewelry and ceramics. The Fonart is also a great place to go if you enjoy Mexican crafts.
Mexico City is a great way to experience the real Mexico. Although the city has fantastic sites to explore, it is also packed with locals and tourists. A few words of advice - Try to avoid the small food stands and eat where it seems to be popular. Theres no need to waste your holidays sitting on the royal throne in the hotel room because you wanted to eat a real Mexican dish. There are plenty of amazing restaurants to give you the authenticity youre searching for. Also, its best not to carry your wealth on you at all times. But dont let these cautions deter you from coming. Mexico City is where old and new grow together and where shopping can range from high-end boutiques to beautiful handmade crafts. The locals are friendly and the hotels can be out of this world. Experiencing Mexico City is truly an experience of a lifetime.
Is Mexico City your hometown? Is it your favorite place to visit? Share your story, tell us what we should know and what are the must sees. Add your comment +
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