HistoryZócalo and the Templo Mayor
Mexico's main square, next to the ruins of the Aztecs' great temple.
Cheap flights to Mexico City
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Mexico City at a glance
- Country
- Mexico
- Airports
- Benito Juárez International (MEX)
- Search code
MEX- Money
- Mexican peso (MXN)
Discover Mexico City
A giant capital built on an Aztec island city, with more museums than almost any city in the world, colorful neighborhoods and some of the best street food anywhere.
What it's called
- CDMXCiudad de México
- Tenochtitlanthe Aztec city it was built on
- Chilangolandiahome of the chilangos, as locals are called
Things to do in Mexico City
History
CultureNational Museum of Anthropology
The giant Aztec Sun Stone and treasures from every ancient culture.
Day tripTeotihuacan
Climb the Pyramid of the Sun, about an hour away; sunrise balloon rides are popular.
CulturePalacio de Bellas Artes
A white marble palace with murals by Diego Rivera and a golden dome.
LandmarkAngel of Independence
A golden angel on a column on Paseo de la Reforma, where the city celebrates.
HistoryChapultepec Castle
A hilltop castle in Chapultepec Park, once home to Emperor Maximilian, with views down Reforma.
CultureXochimilco
Ride colorful trajinera boats along ancient canals with mariachi bands.
FoodRoma and Condesa
Leafy streets with cafés, taquerías and nightlife.
About Mexico
Mexico has Caribbean and Pacific coasts, deserts, jungles, volcanoes and colorful colonial cities. It has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country in the Americas.
- CapitalMexico City
- MoneyMexican peso (MXN)
- LanguageSpanish
Economy
One of Latin America's biggest economies and one of the United States' largest trading partners. Factories build cars and electronics, and Mexico is the world's top producer of silver and avocados. Tourism is a major employer.
Culture
Ancient Maya and Aztec roots mixed with Spanish traditions. Mexican cooking, mariachi music and the Day of the Dead are all on UNESCO's list of cultural treasures, and lucha libre wrestling is a wild night out.
Places to visit
- Oaxacamarkets, mezcal and mole
- Chichén Itzáthe great Maya pyramid in Yucatán
- TulumMaya ruins above a white beach
- San Miguel de Allendecolonial streets and rooftop bars
- Guanajuatoa colorful city of tunnels and alleys
- Los Cabosdesert meets sea at the tip of Baja
Why Mexico is worth it for you
- Close and easyShort, frequent flights from the US and Canada.
- Your money goes farMeals, hotels and tours often cost much less than at home.
- Beach weather all yearThe Caribbean and Pacific coasts stay warm in winter.
- World-class food for littleTacos, tamales and fresh juices from street stands for a few dollars.
Travel more of Mexico
Places worth adding to your trip, from Mexico City or on another visit.
FoodOaxaca
Mole, mezcal and markets in a colorful colonial city.
CultureSan Miguel de Allende
A pink-steepled colonial town loved by artists.
CultureGuanajuato
Painted houses climbing a valley and lively student streets.
NatureCopper Canyon
Canyons bigger than the Grand Canyon, seen from the Chepe train.
HistoryTulum
Mayan ruins above the Caribbean and jungle cenotes.
BeachCancún
Caribbean beaches and Chichén Itzá nearby.
See the guide →Eat like a local
- Tacos al pastorSpit-roasted pork with pineapple.
- MoleA rich sauce made from chiles and chocolate.
- ChurrosFried dough with hot chocolate.
The story of Mexico City
The Mexica (Aztecs) founded Tenochtitlan on an island in Lake Texcoco around 1325. The Spanish conquered it in 1521 and built their capital on top. The lake was drained over centuries, and today about 22 million people live in the wider metro area.
Mexico through history
- c. 600–1200
The Maya city of Chichén Itzá flourishes.
- c. 1325
The Aztecs found Tenochtitlan.
- 1521
Spain conquers the Aztec Empire.
- 1810
The War of Independence begins; Mexico is free in 1821.
- 1910
The Mexican Revolution begins.
- 1968
Mexico City hosts the Olympics.
Good to know
- Best time to go
- March to May is warm and dry; Day of the Dead in early November is unforgettable.
- Getting around
- The Metro is huge and very cheap; Metrobús and rideshare apps fill the gaps.
- Language
- Spanish
Ready to see Mexico City for yourself?
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Flights to Mexico City
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Tips for flying to Mexico City
- Felipe Ángeles International (NLU) also serves Mexico City and is searched separately.
- No fixed dates? Leave them blank: the search opens with your route filled in so you can compare nearby days.
- Compare the total price with bags. Some of the lowest fares leave out checked luggage or seat selection.
- You book with the airline or travel agency directly, so check their name and change rules before you pay.
When you land in Mexico City
Places to stay, things to do and getting around, from trusted travel brands.
Questions about Mexico City
Which airports serve Mexico City?
Benito Juárez International (MEX). Search code: MEX.
What currency is used in Mexico City?
Mexican peso (MXN).
How do I find cheap flights to Mexico City?
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