4-Day Mexico City Itinerary For First Timers: Free Download & Insider Tips

Thinking about where to start in bustling Mexico City? Then, this 4-Day Mexico City Itinerary for First Timers is just for you. The oldest capital in the Americas, this city is a fascinating tapestry of ancient Aztec sites, contemporary urban culture, and colonial architecture. Whether you are an avid history lover or seeking vibrant city life, Chilangolandia is an inviting juxtaposition of old and new. You are welcome to create beautiful memories here.

👉 Bonus: We’ve even created a free downloadable 4-Day Mexico City Itinerary For First Timers PDF to make your planning super easy. [Get it here👇🏻]

Budgeting For 4 Days In Mexico City

The capital of Mexico is a top destination for visitors from all walks of life. Whether you are a solo traveler seeking a one-person trip, a couple on their honeymoon, or a family looking for a vacation, Mexico City has it all. It caters to every budget and is one of the most affordable travel destinations. You can find free or low-cost activities to enjoy, as well as cheaper accommodation options. Expect to spend around $75 per day.

Transportation

Transportation is the first thing to consider when preparing your budget plan. Mexico City’s metro system is fast, the most affordable, and connects most tourist areas. A single ride only costs 5 pesos. Buy the Mexico City Metro Card (Integrated Mobility Card) for 15 pesos and pay fares for Metro, Metrobús, Light Rail, Trolleybus, Ecobici, RTP buses, and Cablebús. Taxi and ride-sharing services are also available, with a base fare starting from 8.74 pesos, plus a per-kilometer charge of 4.28 pesos.

Food

Never miss out on Mexican food while traveling to Mexico City. Tacos al pastor, mole, tamales, elotes, and chilaquiles are the must-try signature dishes. Street food is more budget-friendly, costing as little as $4 to $5 per person. Dining in a restaurant can also be an affordable option. For instance, a 3-course meal in a mid-range restaurant costs from $5 to $20. Luxury diners will have to pay anywhere from $100 to $ 300 or more per person.

Accommodation

Finally, Mexico City offers a wide array of accommodation options, ranging from charming guesthouses in Roma and Condesa to luxury hotels in Polanco and Reforma. The prices depend on the property’s location, number of guests, and other factors. Budget-friendly stays can cost $50 or lower per night. On the other hand, luxury hotels charge upwards of $250 per night. For an authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional “casa.”

4-Day Mexico City Itinerary For First Timers: Day 1: Historic Center & Zócalo

🎭 Morning: Zócalo

• Address: Historic center of Mexico City, Centro, Mexico City, CDMX, Mexico; Google Map
• Things To Do: Exploring historical sites, walking, watching street performances

Your Mexico City itinerary starts at the Zócalo. This historic main square offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant local life. It’s always busy with locals going through their lives, shopkeepers haggling over wares, and street performers showcasing their talents. The plaza is also home to numerous historical sites, including the Metropolitan Cathedral. It is Latin America’s oldest and largest Roman Catholic Cathedral and a colonial architectural masterpiece. Stroll through the square, visit historic sites, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

🖼️ Midday: The National Palace

• Address: P.za de la Constitución S/N, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06066 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM

Continue your expedition to the National Palace of Mexico. This government building features offices for Mexico’s president and the Ministry of Finance. It has served as the seat of power and sovereignty for the Mexicans since the 16th century. The highlight is the impressive Diego Rivera murals, attracting art enthusiasts from all around the globe. The building also features two museums, lush gardens, 19th-century staircases, an extraordinary central courtyard, and significant historical collections. A tour of this place will leave you mesmerized.

☕ Afternoon: Calle Madero

• Address: Historic center of Mexico City, Centro, 06000 Mexico City, CDMX, Mexico; Google Map
• Recommended Restaurant: Café de Tacuba
• Opening Hours: 8 AM – 10:30 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Instagram

Head to Calle Madero for coffee time. This pedestrian-only street, running east-west from the Zócalo, features numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants. Stop by Café de Tacuba for a quick caffeine fix. This century-old institution is renowned for its traditional Mexican cuisine, particularly its distinctive spicy mole recipe, which is one of a kind. In addition to coffee, fill your tummy with Mexican snacks, such as tacos, quesadillas, and guacamole.

🏛️ Evening: Templo Mayor Museum

• Address: Seminario 8, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06060 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
• Social Media: Official Website

Close your day at the Templo Mayor Museum. This awe-inspiring archaeological site offers a glimpse into the Aztec empire. It was once the most important temple of Mexico Tenochtitlan, where many Aztec ceremonies and rites took place. Today, the ruins are transformed into a museum displaying over 3,000 significant artifacts of Mexican culture. These include offerings, burials, objects from the colonial occupation, and stages of construction of the site. Explore the ruins and discover their fascinating history.

😋 Dinner At: El Cardenal – Historic, Traditional Mexican Cuisine, Great Cocktails

Day 2: Chapultepec Park & Museums

🌷 Morning: Chapultepec Park

• Address: Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City, Mexico; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 5 AM – 6 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official X

Enjoy a refreshing morning at Chapultepec Park. Spanning across 686 hectares, this city park is home to seven national museums, a castle, a zoo, and the country’s largest cultural and recreational facility. Its lush forests offer a much-needed break from the city’s busy atmosphere. Walk, jog, or ride a bike and breathe in the fresh air. Later, head to the hilltop Chapultepec Castle to catch stunning city views. Also, keep an eye out for roaming peacocks.

🏺 Afternoon: The National Museum of Anthropology

• Address: Av. P.º de la Reforma s/n, Polanco, Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Next, explore the National Museum of Anthropology. One of the seven museums in Chapultepec Park, this anthropology museum boasts an extensive collection of ethnographic objects and archaeological artifacts dating as far back as the ancient Maya civilization. Its permanent exhibits showcase Mexico’s diverse indigenous cultures, including those of the Mayan, Aztec, Olmec, Toltec, and Teotihuacan peoples. Some must-see artifacts include the Aztec Sun Stone, giant carved Olmec heads, the Coatlicue Stone, a replica of Pacal’s tomb, and the Tízoc Stone.

🎨 Evening: The Museum of Modern Art

• Address: Av. P.º de la Reforma s/n, Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11580 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 10:15 AM – 5:45 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

After archaeology, it’s time for an artistic tour. Stroll through the Museum of Modern Art, home to renowned contemporary artworks. It features representative works from the Mexican School of Painting and defining artists of artistic modernity from the first half of the 20th century. Key highlights include Frida Kahlo’s The Two Fridas, David Alfaro Siquieros’s Our Present Image, José Clemente Orozco’s Soldaderas, and Diego Rivera’s Nightscape. The best part? Everyone receives free admission on Sundays, while students and visitors with disabilities can access the museum at no cost daily.

Day 3: Coyoacán & Frida Kahlo

🍨 Morning: Coyoacán

• Address: Mexico City, CDMX, Mexico; Google Map
• Things To Do: Sightseeing, Dining, Strolling

On this third day of the 4-Day Mexico City Itinerary for first-timers, head to the charming Coyoacán neighborhood. This lively area is a mix of cultural charm and vibrant streets. Stroll through this historic borough and admire colonial buildings. Visit museums and cultural attractions scattered around the neighborhood. You can also stop by local eateries to sample mouthwatering street food. Tip: Don’t forget to try Mexican popsicles (paletas) and churros.

🍧 Ice Cream Stop: La Casa de los Helados

🖌️ Midday: Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul)

• Address: Londres 247, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 11 AM – 6 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

You can’t miss the Frida Kahlo Museum when you’re in Coyoacán. It was once the childhood home of the iconic Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo. Here, she spent much of her life creating her masterpieces. The Blue House, also known as Casa Azul, showcases Frida’s personal belongings and artworks. It also displays works by Kahlo’s husband, Diego Rivera, as well as other artists, pre-Hispanic artifacts, memorabilia, and photographs. You can tour all ten rooms and the large courtyard garden. Discover how wealthy Mexican bohemian artists lived in the past.

🍤 Afternoon: Coyoacán Market

• Address: Ignacio Allende s/n, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
• Social Media: Official Facebook

Head to the locals’ favorite Coyoacán Market for a shopping spree. This vibrant 2-story marketplace is a one-stop shop for local crafts, art, apparel, souvenirs, and food. You will be surprised by some of the things available there, such as skulls and skeletons. You will also find the usual basics, such as groceries, vegetables, meats, and raw materials. The best thing here is trying local specialties. Mariscos (seafood) is the usual go-to option, but you can also try tostadas, salsa, tacos, and other Mexican snacks.

As the sun goes down, head to the Jardín Centenario to relax away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Day 4: Day Trip Or Neighborhood Exploration

🪂 Option 1: Teotihuacan Pyramids

• Address: Pirámide del Sol, 54273 Teotihuacán de Arista, Méx., Mexico; Google Map
• Distance From Mexico City: About 1 hour
• Things To Do: Sightseeing, hot air balloon riding, participating in obsidian workshops

On your last day in Mexico City, you have two options to choose from. The first is taking a day trip to Teotihuacan Pyramids. It is only an hour’s drive from the city and is accessible by bus, taxi, and ride-sharing services. The main attractions on the site are the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, connected by the Avenue of the Dead. Don’t miss the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, which features intricate carvings of feathered serpents and other mythological figures.

💡 Tip: Book a guided day trip to Teotihuacan from Mexico City, which will save you transportation costs. Better yet, book a hot air balloon ride over the pyramids for a one-of-a-kind experience.

🪩 Option 2: Local Neighborhoods

• Address: 06700 Mexico City, CDMX, Mexico; Google Map
• Things To Do: Dining, Sightseeing, Nightlife

Your second option is to explore local neighborhoods such as Roma. It is home to bicycling hipsters and young professionals. Its leafy central avenue, Avenida Álvaro Obregón, features several eclectic eateries, sidewalk bars, and art galleries. Foodies will have the time of their lives, sampling delicacies from endless restaurants and food stalls in the area. Stop by Peltre for brunch before departing from the city.

Alternative: Visit Condesa for cafes, street art, and nightlife.

Also Read:

• Best Things To Do In Mexico City
• Best Things To Do In Tulum, Mexico
• 3-Day Marrakech Itinerary For First Timers: Free Download & Insider Tips

This 4-Day Mexico City Itinerary for First Timers is ideal for those looking to spend a short vacation in the city. You can also extend your stay to 5 or 7 days by including day trips to nearby neighborhoods. One of the questions frequently on visitors’ minds is whether traveling to Mexico City is safe. While not precisely the safest travel destinations, many tourist areas are relatively safe, especially during the daytime. Take basic precautions such as remaining alert and being mindful of your belongings. Nightlife enthusiasts should remain more vigilant and avoid walking alone in alleyways or unlit streets.