A bursting metropolis city full of history

Mexico City is a vast metropolis – a mishmash of ancient history and cutting-edge culture, traditional street food and sublime fine dining. Where else can you visit Aztec ruins and colonial mansions? Or discover world-class art galleries before delving into street markets selling Mexican spices and magic potions? Eccentric, eclectic, and energetic – welcome to Mexico City.   

Things to do

HISTORY
This a treasure-trove of historic sights. Dotted around the centre are the Aztec pyramids of Tenayuca, Santa Cecillia Acatitlan and Cuicuilco. There’s also the Basilica de Nuestra Señorade Guadalupe, a complex of churches, chapels and shrines that draws pilgrims from around the world. And the Zocalo, in the heart of the city, captures centuries of history in just a few hundred metres.

ART
Mexico City is the cultural hub of the country and, when it comes to galleries, there’s something from every era. Some of the most breath-taking works include the dramatic, large-scale murals at Museo Mural Diego Rivera, the Museo Nacional de Arte, and the Frida Kahlo Museum.

THEATRE
From elegant ballet to brass bands, Mexico City puts on a spectacular show. Seek out some of the finest performances as the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico and the Palacio de Bellas Artes. If you prefer a bit of kitsch, head for Arena Coliseo where on some nights they host ‘lucha libre’ – authentic Mexican wrestling.

Top Tip from SLH

Mexico City hosts countless markets and each area (and street) has its own speciality. Talk to your concierge for the lowdown on what’s on when.