Travel: The Most Important Things to Know About Mexico City
For those of you looking for an entire lifestyle experience.
After six years of living in New York City, I’ve realized the importance of taking intentional breaks from the city’s hustle. While beach getaways often call my name, sometimes my soul craves a different kind of nourishment. Mexico City (CDMX) has become that soulful retreat for me—a bustling metropolis similar to New York, yet offering its own unique rhythm.
In February, my mini winter escape led me through the serene beaches of Isla Holbox and Puerto Escondido, ending the trip with the vibrant energy of Mexico City. Then, in April, I went back to CDMX to celebrate my childhood best friend’s 30th birthday. She doesn’t travel as much as I do and rarely makes time for travel, so I made sure this trip happened. It turned out to be life-changing for both of us. We connected with like-minded souls, explored new areas, and had experiences that left us motivated for the future.
Mexico City’s allure lies in its ability to seamlessly blend routine with spontaneity. The city’s year-round pleasant weather, vibrant park culture, diverse food scene, and rich musical landscape create an environment where one can effortlessly establish a balanced routine. Mornings might begin with a workout, followed by productive hours at a local café, leisurely walks in lush parks, and evenings filled with music and camaraderie.
Here’s my curated shortlist of current favorites in CDMX—a guide to experiencing the city’s vibrant culture, wellness offerings, and artistic treasures.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Roma Norte
A bohemian enclave filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and a thriving culinary scene. It’s walkable, tree-lined, and exudes creative energy.
Condesa
Adjacent to Roma Norte, Condesa offers a relaxed vibe with lush parks like Parque México. Perfect for leisurely strolls and café hopping. (My favorite, it reminds me of Williamsburg, Brooklyn)
Polanco
An upscale district featuring luxury shopping along Avenida Presidente Masaryk, fine dining, and cultural institutions like the Museo Soumaya.
Juárez
A revitalized neighborhood blending historic charm with modern flair. Home to art deco buildings, trendy bars, and innovative eateries.
Note: These neighborhoods are relatively close, with short driving distances between them, making it easy to explore multiple areas during your stay.
Culinary Delights
La 89 Taquería
A hidden gem offering traditional tacos with a modern twist. Authentic flavors in a cozy setting.
Tizne Tacomotora
Known for smoked meats and innovative taco combinations—a must-visit for taco enthusiasts.
Panadería Rosetta
Famed for its guava and cheese roll, this bakery offers delightful pastries in a charming atmosphere.
Café Tormenta
A unique coffee stand combining exceptional brews with a distinctive ambiance. (Coffee cart, no seating. They have cute tote bags too)
Café Buna
Ideal for remote work, offering spacious seating and top-notch coffee.
Rumor Café
A café-shop hybrid offering matcha, coconut water, and a variety of Asian drinks in a cozy environment.
Evening Spots
Bar Martínez
Stylish bar known for inventive cocktails and a chic atmosphere—great for unwinding.
Gia
Elegant dining blending traditional flavors with contemporary techniques—perfect for special evenings.
Wellness and Fitness
Commando Studio
A boutique fitness studio offering high-intensity group classes, including bootcamp, indoor cycling, and strength training. With multiple locations across the city, it’s accessible for visitors staying in various neighborhoods.
The Mat MX
Located in Roma Norte, this studio specializes in hot pilates and hot yoga. Classes are set in a thoughtfully designed space with infrared panels and a focus on mindful movement.
Pro tip: Be aware that classes cannot be canceled within 4 hours of the reservation time + the app is easier to navigate.
Cultural Highlight
Museo Soumaya
Situated in Polanco, the Museo Soumaya is an architectural marvel housing over 66,000 works of art, including pieces by Rodin, Dalí, and Monet. Founded by Carlos Slim in honor of his late wife, Soumaya Domit, the museum offers free admission, making world-class art accessible to all.
Where to Stay in CDMX: Boutique Hotels I Love
Finding the right place to stay can truly shape your experience in Mexico City. Whether you’re seeking a cozy guesthouse or a chic boutique hotel, here are some spots I’ve either stayed at or have on my radar for future visits:
Ignacia Guest House
Nestled in Roma Norte, this charming bed & breakfast blends historical architecture with modern design. It’s named after Ignacia, the housekeeper who maintained the property for over 70 years. With only five uniquely designed rooms, it offers an intimate and personalized experience.
NaNa Vida CDMX
Located on Orizaba Street in Colonia Roma, NaNa Vida is surrounded by delightful restaurants, bars, and art galleries. The hotel prides itself on artisanal hospitality, merging culture, art, and casual environments.
Roso Guest House
A blend of Porfirian architecture and contemporary design, Roso Guest House is a chic hideaway in the heart of Roma. It’s part of the Small Luxury Hotels collection, offering a timeless yet modern ambiance.
Maison Celeste
This boutique hotel offers five uniquely designed rooms, each with its own personality and color palette. Located in Roma Norte, it’s a serene escape from the city’s vibrant happenings.
Flow Condesa
Situated in the heart of La Condesa, Flow Condesa offers a creative approach with multifunctional spaces, a gym, work areas, and a restaurant. It’s perfect for travelers looking to blend work and leisure.
Casa Seis Siete
A historic jewel in La Roma, this beautifully restored house offers a green facade and a cozy atmosphere. It’s located on the charming street of Tabasco 67, close to many of the city’s top cafés and restaurants.
Volga Hotel
An immersive sensory haven where gastronomy, art, sounds, and culture converge. Located just one block away from Reforma Avenue, Volga offers a unique artistic and culinary destination in Mexico City.
Hotel Ryo Kan
Blending Mexican and Japanese design, Ryo Kan offers minimalist suites inspired by Japanese lifestyle. Located near Mexico City’s Little Tokyo, it’s a chic, fusion stay with rooftop hot tubs and serene Japanese gardens.
Brick Hotel Mexico City
A sleek, design-forward option with history, Brick Hotel is nestled in the heart of Mexico City’s Colonia Roma neighborhood. It offers modern rooms with balconies and is just a short walk from local galleries and subway access.
Pro Tip: Avoid ULIV Hotels
I usually prefer to highlight places I love, but I want to save you from a potential disappointment. I had a less-than-ideal experience with ULIV Hotels, which are listed on Expedia and Airbnb. The high-rise apartments were uncomfortably hot and bright, with windows that couldn’t be opened due to the high floor level. The apartment wasn’t properly cleaned upon arrival, and the staff were unresponsive. Additionally, the location was on a busy intersection, making it less than ideal. If you come across ULIV listings, I recommend cross-checking and considering other options.
Airbnb Recommendation: Alejandra’s Listings
If you’re leaning towards Airbnb, Alejandra is my go-to host. Most of her properties are near Parque México and come with daily cleaning and laundry services included in the price. They’re well-maintained and offer a comfortable stay. You can check out her listings here: Alejandra’s Airbnb Listings
Mexico City is a tapestry of experiences, blending rich history with contemporary culture. Whether you’re indulging in its culinary scene, exploring its neighborhoods, or immersing yourself in art and wellness, the city offers something for every traveler.
Ready to immerse yourself in CDMX? Let me know if you need more personalized recommendations or tips for your trip! 💕
