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.
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.
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.
