

There’s no denying that Mexico City is having a moment. With enough activities to keep you entertained for a month or a lifetime, you’ll have difficulty deciding what to do on a three-day trip to the Mexican capital. Whether you’re drawn to this megalopolis for its world-renowned gastronomy, historic neighborhoods, vibrant markets, art museums or fabulous design spaces, you’ll leave inspired and craving more.

Day One
No matter what draws you to Mexico City, the recently opened Alexander Hotel in the upscale Lomas de Chapultepec neighborhood is the perfect place from which to center your journey. The posh property is housed within the distinctively shaped Torre Virreyes building, and it features 26 lavishly furnished suites, boasts the country’s first caviar bar and excels at delivering an elite guest experience.
Once you’ve checked in, make your way down to nearby Once Pnadería for its anushka (spongy takes on French kouign-amann) that has become the talk of the town. After savoring one of Mexico City’s best pastries, you’re ready for an afternoon of design appreciation.
Order a rideshare to Casa Gilardi, one of local architect Luis Barragán’s most famous works. The brightly hued residence is privately owned, but the owners will personally guide you on a tour of the property. Tickets sell out fast, so make sure you book in advance.
After a couple of hours admiring the celebrated modernist architect’s use of light, color and space, head to Maizajo, a 20-minute walk away along Calle General Antonio León (the alternative, Constituyentes Avenue, is too congested with vehicles). This newcomer to the capital’s culinary scene offers two dining options: downstairs for a no-frills meal of tacos and quesadillas enjoyed standing up, or upstairs for a full-service dining experience, available with a reservation. If you choose the latter, don’t miss the crunchy shrimp tacos and the juicy quesabirria.
Next, wander to Parque España and Parque México, the Condesa neighborhood’s iconic parks. You’ll find a treasure trove of shops and bars lining the surrounding streets. Cross Insurgentes Avenue into the adjacent Roma neighborhood, where you’ll come across some intriguing boutiques: Pasaje Parián Roma, Happening Store and Chic by Accident are among the more interesting options.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, return to the hotel to partake in one of Alexander’s elegant soirees. End your first day on a high note with DJ beats, signature cocktails at the Caviar Bar and an order of bluefin tuna crudo, the crab roll and the chocolate mousse topped with caviar.

Day Two
Have a hearty breakfast at the hotel before venturing out early for a day filled with art and history. Start at the Museo Nacional de Antropología on Reforma Avenue, the city’s main thoroughfare, to learn about pre-Hispanic civilizations. Then, go downtown to Palacio de Bellas Artes, a stately white marble building that hosts Mexico’s National Folkloric Ballet. For more design marvels, stroll down the pedestrian Avenida Francisco I. Madero to the Zócalo, the city’s main square, and take a moment to admire the perpetually sinking Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral and the nearby Templo Mayor ruins.
For lunch, pop over to Azul Histórico, a charming open-air restaurant set in the courtyard of a 17th-century building. Standout dishes include the tortilla soup, presented in a bowl covered by a striking Talavera Catrina figurine and the duck dumplings drizzled with rich mole sauce.

Next, venture south of the city to the picturesque Coyoacán neighborhood, home to Frida Kahlo’s iconic blue house. These days, it’s impossible to enter without purchasing tickets well in advance. After seeing Frida’s artworks and personal belongings, relax in the serene courtyard before heading to Coyoacán’s main square to soak in its vibe, more reminiscent of a small town than a bustling capital.
For dinner, you’ll have a host of options. Pujol and Quintonil are two of the city’s most acclaimed restaurants. If you didn’t book either in advance, it’s fine because the newly relocated Caracol de Mar in Condesa and Carmela y Sal near your hotel are other delicious choices. Owned by the masterminds behind the famous Contramar, Caracol de Mar impresses with its dual-hued pescado a la talla (a grilled fish). One side is green from parsley and the other is red from a blend of chilis. At Carmela y Sal, you’ll find modern takes on Tabasco cuisine inspired by the chef’s roots.
End with cocktails at Handshake Speakeasy, a Gatsby-esque bar just 20 minutes from the Alexander that many consider among the best in the world.

Day Three
You’d do well to start your final day with another filling breakfast at the Mexico City hotel, especially since you’re going to the Teotihuacán pyramids. Store your luggage with the staff, who can also assist in arranging a private car to take you there. Once at the site, be sure to hire an official guide to explain the significance of each landmark. Though you can no longer climb structures such as the Pyramid of the Sun or the Temple of Quetzalcoatl for safety reasons, the visit is worth it.
If you have time, stop for lunch at La Gruta, a restaurant set in a cave often paired with a visit to Teotihuacán. Otherwise, return to the hotel to retrieve your luggage before going to Mexico City International Airport. Speaking of the airport, those who didn’t make it to Carmela y Sal for a bite the night before will be happy to know there’s a sister restaurant, Vuela Carmela, in Terminal 2.