MyTripABLE

Ready for a thrilling 3-day adventure through Mexico City? Brace yourself for a jam-packed itinerary featuring macabre and unusual sights that are often overlooked. Fair warning: this trip is not for the faint of heart, both in terms of the sheer number of activities and the intensity of some of the experiences.

Day 1: 

Start your day with a stroll through this stunning, modern library, the Biblioteca Vasconcelos, known for its striking architecture. The suspended bookshelves and intricate design make for great photos. Oh, and did I mention there’s a freaking dinosaur in the middle of the room! Books AND a giant dinosaur! What more could a girl want?!? 

Well, it may not have a giant dinosaur, but they certainly have everything else. And I mean everything. Else! The Museo del Objeto del Objeto is a unique museum that showcases everyday objects from Mexican history. Why yes, that is a prosthetic, a wheelchair, a megaphone, optometry supplies, vintage x-ray machines, and a bicycle sculpture. The eclectic collection makes for some interesting and unusual photos. And as they say, pics or it didn’t happen! 

If old toys or unusual objects aren’t your thing, how about a trip to the Museum of Mexican Medicine? The Museo de la Medicina Mexicana lets you get up close and personal with the ailments that plagued the region’s citizens—through some of the most gruesome and graphic wax replicas imaginable. Picture this: a face full of boils, a screaming man enduring a torturous medieval cure, and plenty of bacteria-eaten genitals (yes, you read that right). There was even a display on the development of a fetus from embryo to birth, followed by skeletal growth from infant to adult. It was absolutely fascinating!

With displays that span the spiritual, magical, and scientific, the museum follows the evolution of Hispanic medicine, showcasing how Mexicans’ views on health and healing have changed throughout history. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’ve got the stomach for it, this museum is a bizarrely fascinating dive into medical history. It’s the kind of place that’ll leave you with stories to tell and a new appreciation for modern medicine!

Since you’re already in the historic area, let’s head to the Barrio Chino area for a nice Asian lunch. You’ll know you’ve found the right location when you see the traditional Chinatown gate at the start of the street, typically surrounded by vendor stalls and tourists. As you make your way down the street feast your eyes on stunning Asian lanterns and pretty paper parasols on this aesthetic street, ripe for photos.

As my tummy started to rumble I knew it was time to indulge in one of the many sources of food all around. I skipped the fancier looking places and opted a place that had outdoor seating and ice cold, glass bottle Mexican Coka-Cola. IYKYK! I don’t know the name of the place, I was so overwhelmed with my day that I forgot to write it down. That said, there were so many amazing looking places tempting dinners with windowsill displays, free smells luring you in, and menus available to peruse that I don’t think it’s even possible to find bad food. And if you prefer, there were stalls sell colorful bao buns ready for you to eat while you wander and pursue the rest of the stalls and the street.

While you’re there, feast your eyes on stunning Asian lanterns and colorful paper parasols that make this street a photographer’s dream. On my last trip, I was lucky enough to catch a parade, and let me tell you, there’s nothing quite as surreal as watching traditional Chinese dragons dance down a street in a city in central Mexico. And here’s a fun scavenger hunt for you: track down the elusive CDMX signs, including a special one written in Mandarin at the end of the street in Barrio Chino! This neighborhood is an unexpected gem in Mexico City, transforming into a magical wonderland as the sun sets. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it!

After filling your belly, make your way to the Palacio de los Condes de Miravalle. This stunning baroque palace, now home to the Downtown Mexico Hotel, may surprise you with its vibrant orange-accented façade that doesn’t hint at the paradise inside. Once you step through the doors, you’ll find a breathtaking blend of historical architecture and contemporary design, offering a perfect backdrop for photos. Don’t miss the fantastic bar, where you can enjoy fabulous cocktails—ideal for cooling off and gearing up for your next adventure, which, trust me, you might want a drink for! And don’t forget to check out the incredible garden growing up the wall—it’s truly a sight to behold!

I know it’s been a busy day, but don’t give up on me just yet! Next, let’s venture over to the Mercado de Sonora, a treasure trove of esoteric and macabre wonders. This market is renowned for its eclectic array of items—from herbal remedies and mystical potions to striking Santa Muerte statues.

It’s a photographer’s dream, with its vibrant and eerie atmosphere creating a rich tapestry of visual storytelling. The Mercado de Sonora is a place where colors pop, shadows play, and every corner holds something fascinating for your camera lens. From intricately decorated altars to the curious assortment of mystical artifacts, the market offers endless opportunities for capturing unique and compelling images.

Since it’s definitely after 5pm by now, let’s stop for a drink at the historic La Opera Bar.

End Day 1 at Bar Las Brujas takes its name from the building it’s in, the Casa de las Brujas, or House of the Witches. This cocktail bar is run by an all-female coven of mixologists and features a beautifully illustrated menu with drinks inspired by feminist writers and activists. The references to witchcraft and shamanism flow from the menu to the decor; the aesthetic gives all the witchy vibes! Are those bat skulls lovingly mounted, framed, and hung? Yes! Is that a human skull over by the bar? Oh yeah! And I could go on, and on, and on. Brujas definitely passes the vibe check! 

In addition to fun cocktails, there’s also a small plates menu (when I was there last, I had the most amazing fried squash blossoms). The variety is perfect for when you’re the type of diner who likes to try lots of different things! TIP: Make SURE you make a reservation for Bar Las Brujas a few days in advance so that you’re not disappointed the night you want to go. Mexico City is famous for its bars & speakeasy’s requiring reservations.  

Day 2: 

No visit to Mexico City is complete with a visit to the visit to the pyramids, but I recommend that you do the hot air balloon ride. For those with a fear of heights or motion sickness, the ballon was incredibly stable and the height didn’t feel how I expected it. I typically don’t do well with heights, but the balloon seems to glide, though I never hung my head directly over the edge and looked straight down, so your millage will definitely vary on this one! However, the vantage point on this cannot be beat and for me this was an experience there was 100% no way I was going to miss!

It’s simply amazing to see the perfect geometry used to create the city, and the only ways to take in that symmetry and configuration from above are via hot air balloon, airplane, and helicopter and balloon is the most affordable. A truly bucket list level experience, this was truly well worth the money, and I’ve definitely been known to have feelings of spenders regret at the end of an excursion. This was decidedly not one of those times.

I’ve linked to the company I used for my ride and in case you have reservations, I felt safe from start to finish. They begin the adventure by picking you up at your Mexico City hotel and transport you to the pyramids, historically known as Teotihuacan, an hour and a half away in a modern air conditioned passenger van. From balloon liftoff and landing the ride was smooth sailing and ended with a cold glass of champagne! You’ll notice the link takes you to a list a several different options. All the balloon operations are done through We Fly. The difference is the breakfast, transportation, and fees. So feel free to make your choice based on what works best for you!

After your pyramid experience, freshen up at your hotel, then head on over to the Roma & La Condessa neighborhoods for the hunt for street art.

Wander through these neighborhoods known for their incredible street art, trendy cafes, and vibrant atmosphere. Snap photos of the murals, graffiti, and the beautiful tree-lined streets. As you wander, make sure you’re building up a hunger. Have I got a treat for you!

Once you’ve worked up a hunger feasting your eyes on street art, feed your brain and your belly when you Head to Cafebrería El Péndulo. I went to the one in Roma the last time I was in Mexico City and had a tasty lunch and bought a couple of books (in English), because who doesn’t buy BOOKS before traveling on plane. This unique café combines a bookstore with a restaurant. It’s a beautiful spot for some relaxed dining and book-browsing, with plenty of Instagram-worthy corners. 

After you’ve worked up a hunger from your busy day, wander over to the legendary El Moro Churros where you can grab some delicious churros and hot chocolate from this iconic spot. The vintage decor adds a nostalgic touch to your photos. There are several around town, so choose one convenient to you!   

In Mexico City, street food is everywhere, and this award elevates a humble taco stand in a working-class neighborhood to a playing field alongside high-end gourmet establishments, proving that good food doesn’t need all the fancy trappings. So, ditch your reservations (pun intended) and dive into the real flavor fiesta! Picture yourself savoring a perfectly crafted taco, juicy and bursting with flavor, right off the grill.

You won’t find white tablecloths or snooty waiters here—just mouthwatering tacos and a vibe that’s as authentic as it gets. This is street food at its finest, folks! It’s a culinary revolution that says, “Who needs caviar when you’ve got carne asada?” So grab your friends, head to El Califa de León, and taste history in the making. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you, and your Instagram followers will be drooling over your epic food adventure! Expect to cue up next to locals & tourists alike, but don’t worry everyone was extremely friendly when I was there and happy to chat to pass the time while in line.

The informal eatery serves only 4 items and if it’s Michelin Stars you’re hunting, be sure to order the Gaonera taco. It’s a simple taco made from thinly sliced beef filet seasoned with only salt and a squeeze of lime and expertly cooked right in front of you. Simultaneously, a second employee rolls dough to make tortillas freshly alongside your taco meats. The resulting warm corn tortilla and grilled steak is simple and relies on only the finest ingredients to form flavors that dance across the tongue.

Want to try the other 3 items on the menu? I don’t blame you, I did too! Your other options include bistec (beef steak), chuleta (pork chop), and costilla (beef rib). With meat and tortillas of this caliber, the duo of house-made salsas is hardly even necessary.

Once you’ve gotten your fill of the monument, head over to one of the rooftop bars that line the streets and enjoy the views, and even the remaining sunset. I’ve had drinks at a couple of the rooftop bars/restaurants around the monument (listed below) and the views were OUTSTANDING! Venues are listed in no particular order, though I will say, the food and cocktails were all amazing.  

1) Arango CDMX 
2) Terraza Coronela 
3) Terraza Cha Cha Chá 

Now that your belly is full and you’ve enjoyed a spectacular sunset, let’s end your night at a speakeasy. Handshake Speakeasy cocktail bar is an intimate, upscale award-winning bar that routinely shows ups on “Best Bars” lists. In fact they’ve snagged the #1 spot winning, #1 Bar in North America, and the # 3 spot winning, #3 Bar in the World! In true speakeasy fashion, there’s a secret entrance which is revealed when you make your reservation, so you don’t have to worry about standing around once you arrive.  

This seemed to be more locals than tourists, which I absolutely loved and again, everyone was just so friendly. From the group greeting the moment that secret door opens to the shared tables, even solo travelers will feel welcome in this intimate little bar.
And don’t even get me started on the amazing curated crafted drink menu, where the drinks are actually, well, good.. Try the Pina Colada. No, it’s not a creamy frozen drink. It’s clear. Yes clear. Now order it, ya filthy animal! Handshake even offers “mini” martini drinks, which I love, and even the music selection is definitely a vibe! All that is to say, as soon as you book your plane ticket to Mexico City, book your reservation to Handshake Speakeasy!  

Day 3: 

Kick off your day with a trip to Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)—and hold on to your hats, because this isn’t your typical college library. Now hear me out, this is no ordinary college library.  Imagine a giant, square Lego block covered in Aztec murals, but instead of Legos, it’s all dazzling tiles. Yep, you heard right: the whole thing is like a giant, ancient Pinterest board that got a serious upgrade! Finished in 1952, this tile-clad marvel is so jaw-droppingly cool, you’ll be wondering how they got all those tiles to stick without a single “oops” moment. Do take note, this is on the University campus and not your usual touristy destination so please be respectful of your surroundings.

After a stroll around the library grounds, let’s head back south. While everyone goes to visit the Frida Kohl house (Casa Azul), the nearby Leon Trotsky Museum offers another layer of historical intrigue and is less frequented by tourists. Don’t know who Leon Trotsky is? Don’t feel bad, When I first heard about him (by a friendly local who offered advice on things I just HAD to see around town), I ran to a quick Google search… Here’s his life in a nutshell. He was Russian, opposed Stalin, was exiled, and eventually assinated in Mexico City. Now go visit his house and his grave! 

After lunch you can grab an uber for about $7 which will take about 30 to 45 to drive clear across town so you can wander through the colorful Coyoacán Market and the surrounding streets. The area is full of vibrant murals, quaint houses, and beautiful parks. Don’t forget to take a stroll through the square and take a picture in front of the Coyoacan fountain!

Tip 2: Bring Pesos for your lunch. Tacos are cheap and unless you plan to pay for a strangers lunch like I did, you most likely won’t meet the minimum purchase threshold for using a credit card. Also, lots of people travel solo so it’s not unusual to either be seated with strangers or watch poor unsuspecting people struggle to find a place to sit. That’s how I ended up sharing my booth.

Now, I know it’s been a busy day, but if you’re up for a bit of travel, visit the infamous Island of the Dolls in the Xochimilco canals. It will cost you about $10-$15 for an Uber and take about 45 minutes to get there. But the creepy factor makes the trip feel worth it. The eerie dolls hanging from the trees create a unique and macabre photo opportunity. This requires a boat trip, so plan accordingly if you’re prone to sea sickness. And heck, while you’re there, you can take a boat through the Xochimilco canals.  

If the Island of the Dolls isn’t your thing, try riding the CableBus instead. With Linea 1 as the world’s longest and Linea 2 as the second longest cable car lines, you’ll be soaring from the main parts of Mexico City to its farthest suburbs. You’ll ride above the city for over 2 hours from start to finish. I recommend booking on these tours to ride the CableBus, but I felt safe even if a bit overwhelmed at times, going solo.

Despite all these considerations, I had a great experience riding solo on crutches and, with minimal Spanish. My phone even died mid-ride, but I managed just fine, thanks to the kindness of everyone I met. They were more curious than anything else, and so incredibly friendly and helpful. Just goes to show that even in a bustling city, a bit of courtesy and a friendly attitude can go a long way! 

Also, so many heartfelt thanks go out to the sweet proprietor of the convenience store at the end of the I mentioned above. He let me charge my phone after it completely died. I offered him money but he told me he wanted to practice his English instead. He was just the kindest man and I learned all about him and his family while my phone slowly sipped his electricity. It can be scary to be stuck with no method of translation or communication, and he offered me a sense of calm in a stressful situation.

Now, if you decide to ride the CableBus, and I wholeheartedly recommend that you do, prepare for an experience like no other. The sights and sounds from above are simply unforgettable. For instance, you’ll spot the most surprising backyard residents—yes, turkeys! Beyond the quirky animal encounters, the rooftop murals are a visual treat. They range from bold political statements to whimsical designs, all bursting with vibrant colors. It’s truly a feast for the eyes and a unique way to see the city’s creative spirit in action. 

After you either fly over the city or trek through haunted dolls, I’m sure you’ll be ready for some substance. Depending on what you’re in the mood for and how fancy you want to get, I can make a couple of recommendations: Dr. Pizza or Maximo Bistrot.

Dr. Pizza

Almost hidden in one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods, this spot is not just about pizza; it’s an experience. La Condesa is known for its bohemian vibe, tree-lined streets, and chic cafes, making it the perfect backdrop for enjoying a delicious pie.

And what delicious pie it was! I ordered both, don’t judge me, a girl’s got to do what a girl’s got to do. Plus, I brought the leftovers back to the hotel and nibbled on them over the next few days. Look at me justifying my food choices to my dear gentlest readers! Ahem. Now, what was I saying? I ordered both the Dr Zap which according to Google Translate includes fresh mozzarella, fresh ricotta, pumpkin flowers, chives, olive oil, salt, pepper. But, according to my eyes and stomach includes squash blossoms on top, but at this point there’s just no way to know! Regardless, the blossoms were a delicious and truly unexpected pizza topping.

My second pie was what I thought was to be a the simplest of pies: The ordinary pepperoni pizza. Except it was anything but ordinary. The crust was the perfect blend of thin and stretchy with ooey, gooey cheese with insane pull, topped with plenty of spicy pepperoni. The unexpected rockstar was the large plops of fresh whipped ricotta. I’ve never had whipped ricotta or ricotta on a pizza but 10/10 would recommend.

Dr. Pizza serves up some of the best thin-crust pizza in town, with toppings so fresh you’ll swear they just picked them from a garden out back. Trust me, one bite and you’ll understand why locals and tourists alike are flocking to this pizza haven. Last time I went I didn’t need a reservation but I was a solo party, if you need a bigger table or you’re eating during popular times hop on over to Opentable and make that reservation! After devouring your pizza, take a stroll around the picturesque neighborhood, it’s Instagram gold!

Maximo Bistrot

If you want to end your trip with a bang, head to one of Mexico City’s top restaurants: Máximo Bistrot. This gem is a farm-to-table haven, a concept still relatively rare in the city. True to Mexico City’s historic roots, the head chef sources vegetables from the nearby chinampas of Xochimilco and the surrounding estado. Sure, some veggies have a growing season, so certain dishes might not be available year-round, but rest assured, there’s always something mouthwatering on the menu!

Located at Av. Álvaro Obregón 65 Bis, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Máximo Bistrot is the epitome of fine dining, and yes, you’ll need reservations (they’re on OpenTable).

Now, let’s talk about the food. On my last visit, I started with the grilled octopus with mole de olla sauce and organic sweet potato. The octopus was perfectly charred, tender, and paired exquisitely with the rich, complex flavors of the mole de olla sauce. The organic sweet potato added a delightful sweetness and creamy texture, creating a harmonious balance of flavors on the plate. Each bite was an adventure, with layers of taste that kept me wanting more.

But the culinary journey didn’t stop there. I also had the tagliatelle oxtail ragout with parmesan. This dish was simply divine. The tagliatelle was cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of bite. The oxtail ragout was rich, hearty, and bursting with deep, savory flavors that had been meticulously developed over hours of slow cooking. The generous sprinkling of parmesan added a wonderful umami kick, elevating the dish to new heights. It was the kind of comfort food that feels luxurious and indulgent, yet familiar and soul-satisfying.

Máximo Bistrot is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for Mexican farm-to-table cuisine. So, if you’re looking for a memorable dining experience to cap off your trip, Máximo Bistrot is the place to be! Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Let’s end the night and wrap up your trip with a visit to the speakeasy Hanky Panky. Tucked away in the heart of Mexico City, this secret bar is as elusive as it is enchanting. Getting in feels like being part of an exclusive club—you’ll need to make a reservation and then find the unmarked entrance, hidden behind a nondescript taco joint. They’ll give you step by step instructions on how to find the hidden door when you make your reservations, because I can assure you, you won’t find it accidentally!

Once inside, you’ll be transported to a world of vintage glamour with plush seating, dim lighting, and an ambiance that whispers sophistication. And much like HandShake, this is another bar where you’re just as likely to be seated next to a local as a tourist, so get ready to make new friends!

So, whether you’re marveling at the macabre wax figures of the Museo de la Medicina Mexicana, snapping photos of lanterns in the unexpected Asian quarter, or savoring a Michelin-starred taco, Mexico City is a treasure trove of quirky and unforgettable experiences. This vibrant metropolis is a playground for the curious and the adventurous, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine that you won’t find anywhere else. So pack your bags, make those reservations, charge your camera, and get ready to explore the weird and wonderful side of Mexico City.

I’ll leave you with a quick tip: Avoid currency changers and stick to regular ATMs. You’ll get Mexican Pesos for just about $10 in fees total, while airport currency exchanges can charge around 35% in fees. I learned this the hard way. After exchanging $600 USD for Pesos at the airport, I discovered in the cab to my hotel that I had been charged about $225 in fees—nearly 35% of my original amount. The man at the exchange explained it quickly, with a heavy accent, and I was too tired to catch on. Once I did the math, I realized my mistake. Pro Tip: Towards the very end of the trip, I popped by the ATM of a bank branch. The machine dispensed larger bills so I went inside and the teller was happy to make change and provide both smaller bills and even the $1, $5, and $10 coins.

After spending a week in Mexico City, I can confidently say it’s a place that leaves an impression. Between my high-energy 3-day tour (featured here) and a couple of days spent wandering through the charming streets of La Condesa, I feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface of all this vibrant city has to offer. By the time I left, I was already saying, “I could totally move here!” (though, let’s be honest—I tend to say that after diving headfirst into the culture of a new place). Trust me, every corner of this city is brimming with stories waiting to be discovered, and you won’t want to miss a single one. So, what are you waiting for? ¡Vamos!