Fancy immersing yourself in traditional Mexican culture and having a great time whilst doing so? Climb aboard a trajinera, a traditional flat-bottomed gondola-style boat, in the borough of Xochimilco in Mexico Cityand experience the famous Mexico City Xochimilco Tour.
A boat party on a traditional Mexican trajinera is a party like no other you will have experienced before. This floating fiesta on one of Mexico City’s last remaining Aztec canals is an unmissable experience. The tradition of the trajinera has existed since the 1910s, but the canals have been used as a transportation method since the pre-Hispanic era. Xoxhimilco, dubbed as the “Venice of Mexico”, is an ancient network of canals and islands. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the south of Mexico City.
Xochimilco’s lifeblood flows through its canals, lined with festive and colorful trajineras. These brightly painted wooden boats are the vessels of choice for tourists and locals alike, each named affectionately after Mexican women. Imagine boarding “La Guadalupe” or “La Maria,” and instantly becoming part of a floating caravan that celebrates life with music, marimbas, and mariachis playing live on neighboring boats. It’s a communal celebration where every boat is a floating stage and every row a dance floor.
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Xochimilco Mexico City Boat Tour: A Culinary Voyage
Elote vendor at Xochimilco
No party in Mexico is complete without food and drink (more specifically – tacos and tequila!). 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 with friends. Picture this: boats laden with elotes, quesadillas, and the irresistible aroma of freshly made tacos navigating between the trajineras. Join us for a spicy michelada as we sail down the canals. ¡Salud! These culinary delights mirror the city’s street food culture, just on water—vibrant, vivid, and utterly delicious.
Want to go to the Mexico City Xochimilco Boat Tour? Just let us know and our Concierge team can handle everything. From transportation to drinks and food in your own trajinera boat. We got it all!
Chinampas: Floating Gardens Steeped with Tradition
Floating gardens. Xochimilco, Mexico City
As you float down these historic waters, every corner offers a snapshot of local life and customs. From the chinampas (floating gardens) showcasing sustainable ancient farming methods to spontaneous performances by folk dancers, every moment is a living postcard of Mexican heritage. The chinampas are man-made gardens full of vegetables, fruit, and flowers. Many of Mexico City’s finest restaurants rely on the chinampas for fresh and locally-grown produce. In fact, local fine dining restaurant, Pujol, which was recently awarded two Michelin stars, sources many of its ingredients from this area. Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Mexico City – a must-see for those visiting the city. The ancient gardens are now vital for urban sustainability and are protected by UNESCO. Your visit also contributes to the preservation of these traditions.
Want to visit Pujol, or the other best restaurants in Mexico City? Let us plan your trip so you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see in Mexico City
You can get to see a surprising amount of Mexico City through the 114 miles of winding chinampas-filled channels. Learn about the fascinating and bone-chilling story of La Isla de las Muñecas, or The Island of Dolls. Legend has it that the thousands of dolls hung on the trees on this island are to protect it from evil spirits. This was after a girl was found drowned in the waters nearby. You can visit it and walk around the island, if you dare! There are plenty of other stops you can make in your trajinera; visiting local markets and restaurants along the way.
Planning Your Trip to Xochimilco in Mexico City
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 not to be missed. Each boat fits up to 20 people, making them perfect for large gatherings.
When is the best time to visit Xochimilco?
Correctly timing your visit will undoubtedly improve your experience. If you are looking to party, meet other groups, and share tequila shots with strangers, weekends are definitely for you. Peak seasons such as Cinco de Mayo and Dia de los Muertos are bustling with activity, music, and people. However, if you want a more chilled experience, consider a weekday visit. Early mornings are magical too, with the mist rising over the calm waters. You can also take a “sunset tour” in the late afternoon, and watch the sunset over the city and reflect in canals.
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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. This tour is often coupled with the Coayacán Walking Tour, for a fully immersive day in the artistic hub of the city.
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.
Your Frida Kahlo museum getaway awaits! Contact us for expert help in planning your tour – transport, accommodations, reservations, tours, and more. Let us make your trip unforgettable.
Frida Kahlo tour: What to know before you visit Casa Azul Mexico City
About the Frida Kahlo House
The Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as Casa Azul, is a historic house and art museum located in the Colonia del Carmen neighborhood of Coyoacan, Mexico City. Named for its striking cobalt-blue walls, the museum was originally Frida Kahlo’s birthplace and the home where she lived with her husband, Diego Rivera. It was also the place where she later died in 1954. Diego Rivera donated this house and its contents in 1957 to be preserved and transformed into a museum in her honor.
The museum showcases a rich collection of Kahlo’s artwork, along with pieces by Rivera and other artists. It also features pre-Hispanic artifacts, Mexican folk art, personal belongings, and photographs that offer a glimpse into Kahlo’s life. The rooms of the house have remained largely unchanged since the 1950s, preserving the intimate atmosphere of Frida’s life. As one of the most popular art scenes in Mexico City, La Casa Azul attracts countless visitors who wish to connect with the life and legacy of Frida Kahlo.
Want to learn more about the Frida Kahlo House, or start planning your tour already? Reach out to us and make the dream come true!
The rooms
The museum features ten rooms, each offering a glimpse into Frida Kahlo’s life and art. The ground floor begins with a room displaying some of Kahlo’s minor works, such as ‘El Marxismo Dará Salud (1954)’, ‘Retrato de Familia (1934)’, and ‘Frida y la Cesárea (1907–1954)’, among others. This space was once the formal living room where Frida and Diego hosted notable figures like Dolores del Rio, Nelson Rockefeller, and Sergei Eisenstein.
The second and third rooms are dedicated to personal mementos and some of Diego Rivera’s works. The second room is filled with Frida’s everyday items, photographs, letters, and her iconic Tehuana-style dresses and pre-Hispanic necklaces. The third room showcases Rivera’s paintings, including ‘Ofrenda del día de Muertos (1943)’, and ‘Retrato de Carmen Portes Gil (1921)’.
In the fourth room, contemporary artworks by Paul Klee and other top artists are displayed, while the fifth room contains two large papier-mache Judas figures. The 6th and 7th rooms house the dining room and kitchen, designed in classic Mexican style with blue and yellow tiles, where Frida spent much of her time. The two rooms are filled with large earthenware pots, glassware, utensils, plates, and more which came from Oaxaca, and Metepec. Off the dining room was Rivera’s bedroom, with his work clothes, jacket, and hat still hanging from a wall rack.
Upstairs, visitors can explore Frida’s final bedroom and studio, preserved as they were. The studio features her wheelchair and an unfinished portrait of Stalin, while her bedroom contains her ashes, personal items, and a mirror she used for painting self-portraits. The bed’s headboard and footboard display a painting of a dead child and a photo montage of Communist leaders, respectively, reflecting her political beliefs.
The Art, sketches, and paintings of Frida Kahlo
The first-floor rooms of Frida Kahlo’s home are dedicated to her art, sketches, and paintings. Here, you can find most of her smaller, lesser-popular paintings, as several of her major works are housed in museums worldwide. A highlight of the arts and paintings is Viva la Vida, the last painting Frida completed before her death. The painting’s title, meaning “Live Your Life,” is poignant, reflecting her awareness that the end was near.
A lesser-known aspect of Frida’s life is her connection to photography, inherited from her father, Guillermo Kahlo, who was a photographer. The exhibit includes several family photos taken by Guillermo, as well as photographs Frida herself took. Frida was a captivating subject and took photography as seriously as painting, often directing her photo shoots to convey exactly what she wanted.
Among the many photos on display, one of the most striking is of Frida gazing into the water in the canals of Xochimilco. This image captures her beauty and the depth of her artistic vision. Though recreating this photo today would be difficult due to the area’s popularity, it remains a testament to her enduring influence in both art and photography.
Exhibition of Frida’s Dresses
Frida Kahlo was renowned for her distinctive style, which remains influential in fashion trends today. But what inspired her choices? From her vibrant dresses to her intricate hairdos, every item in her wardrobe was carefully selected for a reason. The exhibition of her dresses provides insight into these choices, with exhibits accompanied by detailed write-ups in both Spanish and English, explaining the “what, why, and how” of Frida’s dressing style.
Frida’s unique fashion sense was deeply connected to her life experiences, particularly the two traumatic events that left her physically disabled. She used her style not only to complement her physical disabilities but also to make a bold, feminine statement rooted in her indigenous heritage. The exhibition beautifully captures this interplay between fashion and identity.
If you are someone who gets emotionally involved with stories, you will find the write-ups accompanying Frida’s dress exhibition profoundly moving. They vividly conveyed the pain and resilience in her life, making you feel a deep sense of despair. You will even feel dizzy as you imagine how Frida dealt with her traumas through her dressing style.
The Garden and Courtyard
The Frida Kahlo tour ends in the expansive courtyard and garden, enclosed by the four wings or sides of the house. The courtyard is divided by a reflection pool, a fountain, and a stepped pyramid, echoing the Aztec architecture that resonates with Mexican heritage. These were built by Diego Rivera in the 1940s when he expanded the house.
The walls facing the courtyard are decorated with mirrors and marine shells, adding a unique artistic touch. Sculptures by Mexican artist Mardonio Magana are also displayed here. One side of the courtyard bears an inscription that reads, “Frida y Diego / vivieron en / esta casa / 1929–1954” (Frida and Diego lived in this house:1929 to 1954), commemorating the couple’s years in the home.
The garden itself is a vibrant display of plants and flowers from Mexico and around the world, each labeled for visitors to appreciate and understand what flowers and plants were there. In Frida’s time, the garden was alive with her pet birds, monkeys, and visiting butterflies, creating a lively, colorful sanctuary. Walking through the garden, you will be enveloped in the same bright, bold atmosphere that inspired Frida’s artwork. The colors, the artistic energy, and the cool, serene environment invite you to pause, sit on one of the benches, relax, and absorb the creative spirit that still lingers in the air.
Now that you are familiar with what to expect before you visit Casa Azul Mexico City, let’s design a personalized itinerary for your adventure.
Coyoacan Neighborhood
Coyoacan, where the museum is located, is a charming neighborhood worth exploring. If you visit the museum on a Saturday, be sure to check out the local market just a few blocks away. Here, you will find everything from leather bags and trinkets to raw meat and fridge magnets, all at bargain prices.
When you need a break from all the city’s walking tours, enjoy authentic Mexican food from one of the many food stalls—just remember to bring cash in Mexican Pesos. Nearby, San Ángel offers more street activities and art galleries, making it another great spot to explore.
How to Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City
Visiting the Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City is a must for art lovers and history enthusiasts. However, to make the most of your experience, some planning is necessary. Here’s a practical guide to ensure a smooth visit:
Tickets
The Frida Kahlo Museum is one of Mexico City’s top art scenes and can get quite crowded. To avoid long waits and ensure swift entry, it is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance. Two Travel can handle this for you, so you won’t have to worry about availability or standing in long lines.
The best time to visit Frida Kahlo Museum
Due to the museum’s popularity and relatively small size, it can be very busy, especially on weekends. To enjoy a more peaceful visit, plan to go during off-peak times. Visiting early in the morning, right when the museum opens at 10:00 AM, is ideal. This will allow you to explore the house and garden at your own pace before the crowds arrive.
Take the best tours of Casa Azul
To enhance your experience, consider booking Two Travel’s Frida Kahlo Museum Tour. Our guided tours provide exclusive insights and stories about Frida’s life and work that you won’t find in standard guidebooks. The tour includes access to her art studio, vibrant garden, and personal belongings, offering a comprehensive look at her life.
We also offer an option to extend your tour to include the surrounding Coyoacan neighborhood. This includes:
A visit to the nearby Leon Trotsky Museum.
A walk through the picturesque Coyoacan Market.
Stops at local landmarks like the Church of San Juan Bautista.
This extended tour is perfect for those who want to delve deeper into the cultural richness of the area while visiting the museum.
So, let Two Travel make your visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum a memorable and hassle-free experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the world of this extraordinary artist.
Craving a memorable taste Caza Azul? Let Two Travel be your flavor tour! We are not just planners, but also memory architects.
The Magic of La Casa Azul
The Frida Kahlo Museum is not just a place to see art; it’s a place to experience the life and spirit of one of Mexico’s most beloved artists. From the vibrant blue walls of the house to the intimate personal objects on display, La Casa Azul offers a unique window into the world of Frida Kahlo. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone looking to connect with the cultural heart of Mexico, a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the artist and the country she so passionately loved.
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.
Our Medellín City Tour gives you the chance to explore Medellín in a way that’s tailored to your interests. Spend the day exploring the sites and let us know in advance what interests you most – history, art, food and drink, nature, music, or a combination! Medellín is a thriving city with a fascinating history. Visit the famous Plaza Botero to see the incredible sculptures of famous artist, Fernando Botero. Take a cable car up to Parque Arvi, or a trip to the Botanical Gardens, if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Medellín. Or taste some of the local foods at the huge market at Plaza Minorista, and get away from the well trodden tourist areas. This city tour can be extended into the evening to visit some excellent bars, where you can enjoy a few cocktails too. Just get in touch and let us know what kind of tour you’d like, and we’ll help you explore the city of Medellín.
Comuna 13 is one of the most colorful districts in Medellín. It’s a must-see place for anyone visiting the city. We will take you on the famous escalators up to the barrio of Comuna 13. Here, you’ll learn about the history and regeneration of this area. You’ll be able to take in the vibrant art and atmosphere of the streets. Comuna 13 is not to be missed and is a shining example of the positive changes seen across the city of Medellín. Be ready to see some fantastic street art, inspired by this area’s history and often created by local residents. From the hill, you’ll have great views across the city. And there will be time to visit interesting shops, cafés and take a slide for the more adventurous on the way down!
Not for the faint hearted, discover the chaotic, colorful, smelly and very local Bazurto market. Try the freshest local fruits and some lunch (if you’re feeling adventurous) and learn about the music and subculture that is Champeta.
If you’re staying in one of our villas, you can opt to go to Bazurto with your in-house chef. Discover even more about local ingredients, then head back to the house for a cooking experience and a really delicious lunch.
Take a walk through the Historical City of Cartagena and the Getsemaní neighborhood, sampling typical Colombian street snacks and drinks, while learning about the history of the city and taking in some excellent street art.
