These hot springs are fantastic day trip from Mexico City. Start your day relaxing in cliff top pools with a view over the countryside, before a dip in the warm river waters and a chance to see the famous cave and waterfall of this special turquoise water paradise.
This tour can be done in one day, leaving early from Mexico City for the four hour drive to the hot springs in Tolantantongo. You’re sure to enjoy the cleansing properties of the turquoise hot springs. We recommend taking this tour on a weekday when the pools are a little quieter.
Following breakfast en-route, on arrival at the hot springs, we get to the cliff top pools early in the day, so you can get that sought after Instagram shot in these one-of-a-kind pools. Each pool is fed by the natural hot springs in this area, and due to the minerals found in the rocks, the water is an incredible hue. It’s a natural spa – no filters required!
You can opt for a zipline down from the pools to the river, or hike down through nature. The river is also a wonderful color, and warm to the touch. It’s a great place for a dip, followed by a delicious lunch on the riverside.
After lunch, you can enjoy the pools or the river, or for the more adventurous, explore the tunnels and caves that lead to a beautiful waterfall spot. Make sure to bring water shoes or hiking sandals that you don’t mind getting wet, along with a waterproof cover for your phone or camera.
Tick off two bucket list activities in one day trip from Mexico City. Visit Teotihuacan – the pre-Aztec City of the Gods – and get a feel for the scale of this ancient city and its incredible pyramids by hot air balloon, before walking the site itself.
At about 50km north east of Mexico City, Teotihuacan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a city of great historical importance built over 2,000 years ago. We leave early in the morning to get to the pyramids for a dawn flight over the City of the Gods in a hot air balloon.
Your hot air balloon is perfect for 12 people, so if you’re in a group on vacation for a special occasion, this is a fantastic day trip to take. Following a light breakfast (and some mezcal for those afraid of heights!), we set sail above this ancient city in your very own hot air balloon. You will get some incredible shots of the most important monuments – the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, and the Temple of Quetzacoatzl. Enjoy the views and the morning light for 40-50 minutes – a truly magical experience!
On landing, we treat you to a glass of champagne, a coffee and more to eat, before driving over to the site itself. You’ll have the opportunity to walk the site, exploring the magnificent structures with a guide who will reveal all the interesting stories of this mesoamerican city.
We recommend wearing layers and closed shoes for this trip, because it can be chilly in the early morning, and the sun is strong later in the day. Bring sunscreen and a hat if you plan to walk a lot, as there is very little shade in Teotihuacan. Transport to and from your accommodation in Mexico City is included.
Young women driving in car – sharing a ride to work or going for a road trip together.
A couple of hours by boat along the Xochimilco canals is a popular activity for tourist groups and locals alike, especially at weekends. These colorful boats known as trajineras are perfect for a party, sometimes with your very own Mariachi band!
Xochimilco is an ancient network of canals and islands, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the south of Mexico City. Every weekend, the canals are alive with boats, music, food and drink sellers, and flowers. It’s a fantastic amount of fun and an entertaining way to spend an afternoon in nature.
As part of this tour, we not only organize your boat, but also a cooler of drinks, plenty of snacks, and some music to dance the afternoon away. This is a great option for groups on vacation, and if you’re celebrating a special occasion, just let us know, so we can plan all the bells and whistles to make this an afternoon on the water no to be missed.
What better way to explore Mexican culture than by exploring a local market to buy ingredients, and then working with a chef to create a delicious 4-course Mexican meal? This tour is a must for foodies, and takes place in the beautiful La Roma neighborhood.
Your first stop will be a local market in the Roma area of Mexico City. Here, you’ll rub shoulders with locals buying the freshest ingredients and finding out about the vibrant flavors of Mexico. Once we’ve bought all the ingredients (and tasted a few things too), we’ll walk to a local kitchen, where you’ll help to prepare lunch – appetizers, Mexican salsas, tortillas, a delicious main course, and of course something sweet to finish.
After all that work, it’s time to enjoy the fruits and flavors of your labor. We’ll eat lunch together, sharing recipes and enjoying a Mexican mezcal, craft beer or wine.
Not only do you get to explore Mexico City’s Historical Center, on this walking tour, you also get to sample the delicious flavors of Mexico. This city food tour is perfect for foodies wanting to explore authentic Mexican drinks, snacks, markets and street food.
See the city through its flavors, walking through time to explore pre-Hispanic food to modern day Mexican food. You’ll have a drink in a traditional Mexican cantina, take a stroll through a famous market, snack on sweet treats in one of the oldest candy stores in the city, and explore organic Oaxacan cooking.
We recommend that you arrive to this tour hungry! And if you’re in Mexico City for a special occasion, we can help you find the best gastronomic experience for the evening, securing you a reservation at one of the best restaurants in the city. Just let us know what you’re looking for.
Also known as La Casa Azul, the Frida Kahlo museum is an unmissable treat in Mexico City. One of the most famous artists in Mexico, Frida Kahlo lived and painted in this house in Coyoacán for many years.
In this magical space, you’ll find personal objects left by Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera – their art, clothes, furniture, books, jewelry – and of course sketches, paintings and art by the two famous artists, and other artists they knew or were inspired by. Explore the courtyard and rooms where Frida worked, and even visit her bedroom and the Altar de Muertes.
Our guide will provide additional context to what you see, recounting interesting stories about the iconic artist’s life both in Mexico City and in the US, and the people, places and culture that inspired her.
This tour is often coupled with the Coayacán Walking Tour, for a fully immersive day in the artistic hub of the city.
A night of Mexican wrestling is not only one of the most enjoyable things you can do in Mexico City, but also a great way to “dive in” to seriously authentic Mexican pop culture! This tour is a fantastic trip for groups especially.
In readiness for an evening of Lucha Libre, we´ll first take you to a local place for some mezcal tasting, where we’ll also teach you some of the key phrases for your night in Arena Mexico – the cathedral of Lucha Libre – which takes place every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday night. It’s the perfect warm up, before we head to the 17,000 seat stadium for an evening of Mexican wrestling. You’ll be close to the action, cheering on the iconic masked wrestlers (or luchadores) as good wrestles evil in a high energy spectacle. The atmosphere cannot be beaten, and we’ll make sure you have masks, drinks, pizza and chicharrón (salty pork scratchings!) to accompany this wild night of sporting prowess.
Mexico City is huge so although walking between neighborhoods is not recommended, taking a walking tour in the City Center, Roma, La Condesa or Coayacan, is a great way to get a feel for the city. Our tours are personalized, so if you want to explore a specific area, let us know.
Each walking tour is a couple of hours, but we recommend you consider it as a half day tour, so we can take our time, stop for food or refreshments, and give you time to really explore. These are perfect introductions to each area, which you can then follow with a visit to some of the wonderful museums and galleries in each neighborhood. Here are some examples of the walking tours we arrange.
Mexico City Historical Center
Downtown Mexico City is a place full of attractions. You could spend days enjoying the culture and history in this area. This tour gives you an introduction and orientation to Mexico City’s Historical Center. By foot, you’ll see some of the incredible palaces, museums and squares that form this district – the Aztec temple, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Palace of Fine Arts, the Alameda Central Park and Diego Riviera Mural Museum. There are plenty of opportunities for photos and of course, we can recommend some local spots for great tacos!
Roma and La Condesa
We love both of these areas and recommend them both as areas to use as your base when staying in Mexico City. Roma has more of a local neighborhood feel and is perfect if you want to explore art deco buildings and Mexican culture. Roma is buzzing with shops, restaurants, parks, street art and markets. There is always something to see in these streets. La Condesa next door is where you’ll find a more upscale feel – designer shops, fancy restaurants and long boulevards. It’s also famous for its nightlife, so we recommend coming here to walk in the afternoon and enjoy the evenings! During this walking tour, you’ll see these beautiful streets full of architectural styles, as well as some time in Parque Mexico. Mexico City never ceases to amaze with its green spaces.
Coayocan
A trip Coayocan in the south of Mexico City is a must. You’ll probably want to combine this walking tour with a trip to the Frida Kahlo museum (La Casa Azul). Known for decades as one of the most bohemian areas of the city, you do not want to miss a photo at the famous coyote fountain. You’ll also visit beautiful and unique churches, parks and the fascinating markets of the area. And of course, we’ll take you to see the hot spots where famous Mexican artists made their mark.
Mexico City’s size and diversity make it an endlessly exciting destination to explore. And while your trip schedule will probably include stops at most of its fascinating neighborhoods, choosing one to be your home away from home may not be that easy. Luxury rentals are available across the city’s most appealing and welcoming areas, with three to five-bedroom apartments ranging between $200 USD to $750 a night.
And aside from price, it’s always important to consider factors such as walkability, dining options, and energy levels –while some travelers may love the bustle and hustle of Centro Histórico, others may prefer the charming, almost rural vibes of Coyoacán.
With that in mind, we’ve rounded up a list of six of the most beautiful and exciting neighborhoods in the Mexican capital to help you decide.
Polanco
Many say Polanco is the prettiest neighborhood in the city, and it’s easy to see why. Luxury condos stand alongside classic buildings, several parks allow for leisurely walks, and excellent dining options are found all across the area. In fact, some of the best restaurants in the entire country are in Polanco, such as the renowned Pujol and Quintonil. You will also find plenty of eateries around the lovely Lincoln Park, perfect for people-watching.
When it comes to shopping, there is no shortage of luxury brands here. On Presidente Masaryk avenue, you’ll find designer boutiques like Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Montblanc. The neighborhood is also home to El Palacio de Hierro, a luxury department store, and Antara Fashion Hall, an outdoor shopping mall with fashion boutiques, a movie theater, and plenty of restaurants.
It’s no wonder that Polanco is the go-to neighborhood for in-the-know travelers. Hotels like W, JW Marriott, and Hyatt Regency stand on its beautiful Campos Elíseos avenue, while luxury rentals offer a local experience.
Condesa
Tree-lined streets, tranquil parks, and plenty of spots to dine and wine are part of the deal when you book a stay in this beautiful Mexico City neighborhood. Back in the early 20th century, the area was a horse race track, which is why its official name is Hipódromo Condesa, and you’ll notice that one of its main avenues, Amsterdam, is a loop.
Condesa offers lovely apartments for couples and groups who are looking for that balance between being in the middle of the action and enjoying a more residential feel. A day in Condesa can be spent walking around and getting lost among its coffee shops (Quentin is a great choice for specialty coffee), restaurants (treat yourself to an Israeli feast at Merkavá or a Mediterranean lunch at Lardo), and design shops (find Latin American design at Cardón). For drinks, there are two new options to discover: Bijou, a sleek speakeasy, or Skybar, the rooftop bar at the Mondrian hotel.
Roma Norte & Roma Sur
With a high concentration of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops, Roma Norte is a coveted destination for those who want to feel Mexico City’s most energetic side. Eating and drinking take center stage here, with iconic fine dining eateries like Máximo Bistrot and Rosetta; as well as casual spots like Mi Compa Chava, a favorite among seafood lovers, or Dooriban, a cozy Korean joint. Cocktail lovers must make a pilgrimage to the legendary Licorería Limantour, the city’s pioneering mixology bar, as well as new, daring concepts such as the women-led Brujas or the intimate 686 Bar.
However, there is more than meets the eye in Roma, and it is possible to experience a more low-key vibe in Roma Sur. Like its sister neighborhood, the Roma Sur area also boasts beautiful mansions from the early 20th century, echoes of the area’s early days. Roma Sur highlights include Bacal, a cozy wine bar serving cocktails and tapas, and the eclectic Mercado Medellín, which sells an impressive array of South American products, a testimony to the neighborhood’s diverse Latin population. This same energy can be found at Comedor de los Milagros, a fun restaurant featuring Latin American specialties.
Centro Histórico
The heart of Mexico City beats in Centro Histórico. Buzzing with activity, the streets of the historic downtown are lined with restaurants, cafés, and specialized shops selling everything from shoes to jewelry to books. Staying in this area means that you can walk among breathtaking historic buildings and easily explore some of the city’s top museums and most iconic sites, such as the Palace of Fine Arts, the Zocalo square, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor Museum.
In fact, you can find one of the city’s coolest lodging options right behind the Cathedral: Círculo Mexicano, a design hotel by the Mexican group Habita. This converted building boasts modern guest rooms and a lovely rooftop from where to admire the surrounding area. Círculo Mexicano is also home to Caracol de Mar, a delightful seafood spot by the team behind the iconic Contramar in Colonia Roma.
San Ángel
With its quaint cobblestone streets, bright bougainvillea flowers, and colonial architecture, parts of San Ángel might make you forget that you’re in one of the busiest cities in the world. And there’s a historic reason for that. This neighborhood was actually a rural area back in the 18th century, where wealthy Mexico City families owned gorgeous country houses for relaxing on the weekend.
Today, San Ángel boasts excellent museums, like Museo El Carmen, a former convent, and Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, where the iconic painter duo lived and worked. Just across the street stands one of the most beloved restaurants in the city: San Angel Inn, housed in an old hacienda and serving an extensive menu of Mexican and international specialties. Nearby, the charming Plaza San Jacinto becomes a veritable art fair every Saturday, with painters and artists exposing their work. Also on Saturdays, the aptly named Bazar Sábado welcomes Mexican craftspeople and modern designers to showcase their work.
Coyoacán
Located in the city’s southern area, Coyoacán bursts with charm and culture. For centuries, the city’s artistic and bohemian scene has found its soul in Coyoacán, with its coffee shops and mezcal and pulque bars. One of its most famous residents was, of course, Frida Kahlo, whose home became the unmissable Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as Casa Azul. Her husband, Diego Rivera, left a spectacular legacy at the Anahuacalli Museum, another neighborhood jewel.
Stroll around Plaza Centenario to absorb Coyoacán’s magic and stop for delightful street snacks, like esquites (corn kernels with mayo, lime, and chili powder) or churros. Treat yourself to authentic Oaxacan cuisine and mezcal at Corazón de Maguey, or walk to the tiny Café Avellaneda for specialty coffee and original cocktails.
If you’re planning a trip to Mexico City, contact us and we can help you to find the perfect apartment to stay in, especially for groups of 4 or more people. We can also plan your itinerary, setting up day trips, activities and restaurant reservations.
The start of a new year brings dreams and ideas to the horizon: where should we go next? With its incredible variety of natural ecosystems, rich history, incomparable cuisine and welcoming population, Mexico should be on top of your list. It’s time to plan your Mexico vacation!
Traveling to Mexico is easy. You can fly from the United States to Mexico City and other top destinations, like Cancun, Mérida, or Oaxaca. It’s also easy to take domestic flights from Mexico City, so you can extend your trip and explore other regions. The country’s geographic position also makes it a convenient year-round destination. You’ll find mild weather in the capital throughout the year, and warm, sunny weather in tropical areas nearly year-round. Aside from hurricane season, which usually lasts from July to November, you can plan your Mexico vacation without any complications.
Whether you are planning a trip with your family or your friends, Mexico has something that will charm everyone in your group. Below, you will find a selection of some of the best places to visit for your Mexico vacation.
Mexico City – for a vibrant, cultured Mexico vacation
A visit to the sprawling capital of Mexico is an adventure for the senses. History is alive in this city of more than 20 million, and so is a vibrant present, courtesy of its bustling culinary, artistic, and creative scene. Mexico City International Airport welcomes flights from all over the world. It’s a convenient destination for travelers of all ages, as there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy. Five to seven days are a good start to discovering this magnificent city. Although we have to warn you: you’ll always be left wanting more.
With more than 150 recognized museums, culture is everywhere in this city. Major institutions include MUNAL, a breathtaking building that houses Mexican art produced between the 16th and 20th centuries; Museo Nacional de Antropología, with more than 5,000 pre-Hispanic pieces; and the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes, where you will find murals by artists like David Alfaro Siqueiros and José Clemente Orozco.
Palacio Bellas Artes
Mexico City’s diverse neighborhoods are a treat to explore. Walk around the busy streets of Centro Histórico, where many of the city’s historic and cultural sites are concentrated. Or stroll along the tree-lined sidewalks of Condesa and Roma, home to countless restaurants, cafés, bars, and galleries. In Polanco, you will find stylish boutiques and high-end restaurants,. And the south part of the city will surprise you with areas like Coyoacán and San Ángel, whose cobblestone streets and picturesque buildings will make you feel like you’ve left the big city for a few hours.
All across these areas, you will find countless options to delve into Mexico City’s fascinating culinary landscape. From fine dining options like icons Quintonil and Pujol to casual eateries or irresistible street snacks, there is an immense variety of flavors, concepts, and budget options, too. Mexico City is also home to old-school cantinas, traditional mezcal bars, and modern, inventive cocktail bars, like the award-winning Licorería Limantour and Hanky Panky.
Turquoise waters bathe the coastline of the Riviera Maya, home to some of the most gorgeous beaches in Mexico. The area extends for 80 miles, from low-key Puerto Morelos to trendy Tulum. Here, you’ll find an incredible range of options when it comes to lodging, dining, and activities, catering to travelers of all budgets and interests. As a region, it’s high on the list of any Mexico vacation plan.
Party-oriented travelers will love Playa del Carmen and its bar-lined Quinta Avenida. Or visit Cancun, the area’s first and largest destination, which offers world-class restaurants, all-inclusive resorts, luxury hotels, and an international airport that welcomes flights from the US, Canada, Europe, and South America.
For those who want a slow-paced trip with a deeper connection to nature, Bacalar is the place to go. Its famed Seven Color Lagoon is ideal for kayaking, swimming, and enjoying endless hours of relaxation.
Tulum is, indeed, one of its most popular spots, where a bohemian lifestyle and modern luxury coexist in tropical harmony. There are plenty of lodging options to choose from in Tulum, from boutique hotels and larger resorts that have opened recently. A great choice for any group is a private villa where you can enjoy a personalized experience.
Riding a bike is the best way to explore this coastal town. And definitely spend a day in one of its beach clubs. Mia Beach Club and Papaya Playa Project are two of the liveliest spots. Check out cool boutiques like Kismet, featuring a fantastic eyewear selection, and In The Middle, focused on simple items made with sustainable materials. When it’s time for dinner, make sure to book a table at Arca, where seasonal ingredients and open-fire cooking make for a memorable experience.
A visit to Tulum presents the unique opportunity to swim in a cenote. These natural sinkholes, which can be open or shaped like caves, are found all over the region. It’s believed that there are more than 7,000 in the Yucatan Peninsula. The Maya considered cenotes to be the entrance to the underworld, and swimming in them is a truly unique experience.
Two Travel can help you with your Mexico vacation. We tailor trips for groups who want to start their vacation in Mexico City or Tulum. Get in touch and we’ll help you build your journey. Or take a look at our recommendations for Things to do in Tulum this year.
Oaxaca – best for a foodie Mexico trip
With a fascinating history, rich cuisine, and bustling art scene, Oaxaca holds the very best of Mexico. This beautiful capital city is a short flight from Mexico City (you can also fly nonstop from some US cities). It captures every traveler’s heart within minutes of walking around its historic center. Its centerpiece is the church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, a baroque masterpiece that boasts a gorgeous altarpiece inside. Highlights also include Centro Cultural San Pablo, an old convent that went through an impressive restoration. It now features a modern building that houses temporary exhibitions.
Just outside the city, you will find two of the country’s most important archaeological sites. First is the breathtaking city of Monte Albán, which was once the capital of the Zapotec culture. And second is Mitla, a ceremonial site best known for the intricate carvings on its stone walls and columns. The most convenient way to explore them is by booking a tour through a certified provider.
It’s not an overstatement to say that many travelers come to Oaxaca to eat and drink. The city is home to eclectic food markets, like Mercado 20 de Noviembre. Here you can sample local specialties like cecina (cured beef), chapulines (toasted grasshoppers), quesillo (fresh string cheese), and Oaxacan hot chocolate. Among its many fantastic restaurants, check out city icons like Casa Oaxaca and Origen. They in turn paved the way for innovative concepts such as Criollo and Levadura de Olla.
When it comes to drinking in Oaxaca, mezcal is king. This agave-based spirit is produced in nine states in Mexico, but Oaxaca boasts two-thirds of the whole country’s production. You will find this mystical liquid in pretty much any restaurant or bar across the city. We highly recommend booking a spot at La Mezcaloteca for a tasting of the most exquisite artisanal mezcal.
Mérida – to explore Mexico’s history
Merida is the capital of Yucatán. It holds a rich Maya history and a colonial past. It’s also one of the most thriving cities in the country today. This warm, welcoming city is as exciting for history buffs as it is for foodies and those who love a more relaxed approach to life. You can fly nonstop from Mexico City or from US cities like Houston and Dallas.
Stroll along Paseo Montejo, Mérida’s main avenue, and take in the beauty of the grand colonial mansions. Some have been repurposed as restaurants, museums, hotels, and even banks. These buildings speak of the city’s splendor during the end of the 19th century when the city and its surroundings were the centers of sisal fiber production.
In Mérida’s beautifully-preserved historic center, you’ll find the San Ildefonso Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the country. On the same square, Dulcería and Sorbetería Colón serves the most famous ice cream in town. We especially recommend the coconut sorbet!
Speaking of treating yourself, Mérida is a true culinary paradise. Yucatán cuisine includes specialties like cochinita pibil, relleno negro, and sopa de lima, among many other dishes. Make sure to book a table at Museo de la Gastronomía Yucateca for a taste of authentic Yucatán cooking with a side of culture. For a high-end dinner, stop at the beautiful Kuuk, and if you’re in the mood for a casual, authentic brunch, La Lupita serves unforgettable lechón (suckling pig) tacos and tortas.
Mérida is home to the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, a modern building that will take you on a journey into the fascinating history of the Maya people through artifacts, textiles, and interactive exhibitions. Just two hours away from the city, the grand archaeological site of Chichén Itzá awaits. Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World by UNESCO in 2007, this magnificent Maya complex features the iconic Kukulcan pyramid, a Ball Game court, and several platforms with intriguing panels and carvings. Book a certified tour and explore this stunning historic area.
San Miguel de Allende – a must for any Mexico vacation
This colonial city in Guanajuato constantly tops international lists on where to travel, and it’s easy to understand why. Its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and mountainous landscape give it a magical atmosphere, one that makes visitors want to come back time and again. It’s just a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Mexico City, so it’s pretty easy to keep the love affair alive.
Start your San Miguel exploration at the very heart of the city: the main square around the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, the iconic pink limestone church that towers over the old town. Built in the 17th century, the church is open to the public and the setting for weddings and quince años, as well as for ordinary religious celebrations. Its unique towers were designed by stonemason Zeferino Gutiérrez and added in the 19th century. According to legend, the artist was inspired by a postcard of a Belgian church for his masterpiece.
Around the square, there is no better plan than to walk around without any particular direction. The old town is packed with adorable boutiques and art galleries, such as Dôce18 Concept House, where you will find pieces by various Mexican designers. For authentic crafts, get lost in Mercado de Artesanías. A few minutes away, Fábrica La Aurora is a dream destination for furniture and home decor.
Thanks to its location in the Bajío region, San Miguel is at the center of an important sustainability and farm-to-table movement. Among its many delightful restaurants, local favorite Cumpanio doles out hearty brunches, excellent cocktails, and the best bread in town. Make sure to check out sister bakery Panio. And Luna Rooftop Bar, at the Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, offers delicious drinks and tapas with the best panoramic views of the city and its surrounding mountains.
If you need help planning your trip to Mexico, get in touch.We’ll help you plan your Mexico vacation – helping you find accommodation, organizing transport and tours, and getting you that sought after reservation.
