TRAVEL: MEXICO CITY OF CULTURAL PARADOX
Mexico City Guide
Mexico City
Mexico City, also known as CDMX, the Capital of Mexico that serves as a cultural hub for the rest of the country. It’s streets are filled with vibrant art and people, delicious food, and loads of history and tradition. The reason we call it the city of cultural paradox is because although there are incredible luxuries in CDMX, the poverty and struggles in Mexico are very obvious. Even more so making , this place is a definite must-see, you’ll be busy combing the streets for hours, but when you’re ready to venture off, there are a couple places you can’t miss.
Walk
Polanco
One of Mexico City’s most popular cities should definitely top your list. It’s filled with food, fashion, and culture, and will have you exploring and discovering something new and exciting at every turn. Roam around an area called "El Polanquito" and along the street of Masaryk!
Street Art Chilango
Street Art Chilango provides weekly three hour walking tours. Here, you’ll explore the street art of Mexico, its celebration and inclusion of culture, and its overall welcoming atmosphere. Street Art Chilango is an opportunity for artists to express themselves on large outdoor walls, legally. This way, they can express themselves, and we get to enjoy it.
Where: Av. 5 de Mayo 10, Centro, 06000 Centro, CDMX, Mexico
Museums
Frida Kahlo Museum
You can’t come to Mexico City and not see the world famous and influential artwork of Frida Kahlo. This cobalt blue house is filled with the work of the Mexican artist herself, who was a huge inspiration to artists all over the world. It’s a must see, and you’ll see artists all over Mexico drawing inspiration from her too.
Where: Londres 247, Del Carmen, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Soumaya Museum
The Soumaya Museum is a gorgeous museum that features over 66,000 pieces. Split between two buildings, you’ll be able to see notable Mexican artists, along with huge names such as Picasso, Dali, Van Gogh, and others. In all honesty, we didn't particularly enjoy the actual museum as there isn't a great flow, but the structure of the building is a must see. Not to mention, there is free entry.
Where: Soumaya Museum, Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra 303, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City, Mexico
Food
San Angel Inn
The San Angel Inn is an old monastery turned restaurant in Mexico City, decorated in Mexican- colonial fashion. It’s beautiful blend of old time Mexico and the new makes for a charming inn. An ideal brunch spot, the San Angel Inn serves up delicious international cuisine, and adds a little old world charm to the hustle and bustle of Mexico City.
Where: Diego Rivera 50, San Ángel Inn, 01060 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Quintonil
Quintonil, right in the middle of Mexico City is a food experience that people travel to Mexico City just to be a part of. You can go in and request a 10 course meal, or go your own route. Either way, it’s a fresh, seasonal, and a great way to end the day in Mexico City. It’s reinvented Mexican cuisine using all local and fresh ingredients. Definitely plan ahead for this one, because getting a table isn’t easy, but it is worth it.
Where: Newton 55, Polanco, CDMX
Pujol
(Photo by @pujolrestaurant)
Pujol is a creative and inventive take on Mexican Cuisine. It draws inspiration from everywhere, but stays true to its Mexican roots. You can opt for the tasting menu, or the taco bar, eat inside or on the terrace. Whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed.
Where: Tennyson 133, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, 11550 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Afterhours
Mama Rumba
Mama Rumba is the perfect place if you’re looking to dance the night away. It’s a mix of locals and tourists, and even has live music. The party goes until 3am, so if you’re a tourist looking to learn some new moves, you’ll have plenty of time!
Where: Calle Querétaro 230, Roma Nte., 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Palacio de Bellas Artes
Not into dancing? Or looking for something a bit more relaxed? Palacio de Bellas Artes, is great during the day, but even greater after sunset. The museum often hosts events as night; nighttime tours, galas, ballets, and more. Check it out if you’re looking to take off your dancing shoes for the night.
Where: Av. Juárez, Centro Histórico, 06050 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
La Condesa
The Rooftop at the Condesa is a relaxing and picture worthy way to end your long day. Perched at the top of the Condesa hotel, you’ll find yourself eating some delicious food, sipping on delicious drinks, and overlooking some of the beautiful neighboring architecture. The neighborhood is home to some great bars, and restaurants, but this is one tops the list.
Where: Avenida Veracruz 102, Colonia Condesa
