11 essential insights before visiting Mexico City

Home to over 21 million residents, Mexico City is a bustling metropolis with Indigenous roots dating back to the 1300s, originally known as Tenochtitlan.

This vibrant yet chaotic city is where I grew up. After a lifetime here, CDMX (as it's commonly called) continues to astonish me with its sense of community, where locals—known as chilangos—embrace and enjoy public spaces like parks and plazas. People-watching is a popular pastime, and simply wandering around for a late-night snack becomes a form of social activity.

In recent years, Mexico City has emerged as a prime destination for travelers eager to explore Mexico's rich culinary scene, marvel at its breathtaking architecture, or wander through its charming and picturesque neighborhoods like Roma, Polanco, Juárez, and Condesa.

However, throughout my journey as a travel writer and fixer in Mexico, I often encounter misconceptions about the city. Here are some clarifications to help you plan your visit to Mexico City and feel more relaxed and confident before your flight.

1. What should I include in my packing list for Mexico City?

Mexico City enjoys favorable weather, with average temperatures in the low 20°Cs throughout most of the year. Summer marks the rainy season, so expect evening showers from late June to mid-October, ranging from intense 20-minute downpours to light sprinkles. Just know that rain is likely.

Pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket, but you can skip the umbrella. If you do get caught in a downpour, street vendors typically sell umbrellas for around 60 pesos. Comfortable shoes are essential, as you’ll likely do a lot of walking while you discover the city. Consider bringing a button-down shirt or a casual dress for dining at upscale restaurants, as chilangos usually dress stylishly when going out.

2. Certain restaurants and museums require reservations well in advance

The Mexico City culinary and nightlife scene is vibrant, featuring some of the finest dining establishments in North America and beyond. If you plan to visit Pujol or Quintonil, it's essential to make your lunch or dinner reservations ahead of time.

When visiting Mexico City with friends or family, securing lunch and dinner reservations early is advisable, as popular restaurants and bars may struggle to accommodate large walk-in groups.

Purchase tickets for the Frida Kahlo Museum or the Luis Barragan House well in advance, and structure your trip itinerary around the harder-to-get reservations.

The months from February to early May and September to December are typically the peak times for visiting Mexico City, so consider this if you wish to steer clear of crowds.

3. How long should my visit be?

Consider a four- to five-day trip to adequately explore the city's most popular neighborhoods and attractions. If you want to visit Teotihuacan—an archaeological site situated 39km northeast of Mexico City—or the Cuemanco ecological area in Xochimilco, plan to dedicate an entire morning for each, as it typically takes about 1.5 hours to reach these sites from the city center.

The National Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Castle warrant at least four to five hours of your attention. Allocate an entire day for exploring Centro Histórico (Mexico City's downtown), visiting landmarks like Bellas Artes, the Diego Rivera murals, Catedral Metropolitana, and Templo Mayor.

Take some time to immerse yourself in the rhythm of life in Mexico City. While it can be bustling, there are also serene spots perfect for enjoying a coffee or cocktail and unwinding.

4. What is the appropriate tipping etiquette?

Mexico City is mainly a working-class city, and there is significant economic inequality within the service and hospitality sectors. A standard tip is around 15%, with 20% being more appropriate for exceptional service at restaurants, bars, coffee shops, or for booked experiences and services.

When dining at restaurants or bars, staff will often ask if you would like to add a tip before processing your card payment. If you take a tour or hire a local guide, it’s best to tip in cash, ideally in pesos.

Tipping an Uber driver isn’t common, but if you hire a personal driver for your trip, it’s expected to provide a tip. If you receive help packing your groceries at a supermarket, consider tipping 10 to 15 pesos.

5. Mexico City isn’t exactly inexpensive

Many international travelers and remote workers have faced criticism on social media for declaring, 'Mexico City is so affordable!' If you earn in USD, Euros, or GBP, you'll likely find your income or travel budget stretches further in Mexico City compared to places like New York, San Francisco, or London.

That said, Mexico City is not cheap for locals, and in the past five years, living costs—particularly housing due to short-term rentals and Airbnb—have significantly increased. While chilangos are typically warm and hospitable, remarks from tourists about the city's relative affordability may not be well-received.

6. Mexican street food is scrumptious, but not very accommodating

Regrettably, adhering to strict vegan or vegetarian diets, gluten intolerance, severe allergies, or other cultural and religious food restrictions can be challenging to navigate in most settings, particularly at street food stalls.

Taco stands and quesadilla vendors may prepare vegetarian options using lard or cook them near meat; some moles and salsas might contain peanuts or other nuts. Many local markets prominently feature traditional butchery. If you eat meat, remain open-minded and flexible—you might discover some fantastic Mexican dishes.

When at a taco stand, locals may caution you about the heat of the salsas, which could be spicier than you're accustomed to. In Spanish, picante translates to spicy.

Mexican restaurants, known as fondas, primarily cook from scratch and typically include at least one vegetarian option on their daily menus. Corn tortillas are abundant throughout Mexico City, so if your restriction is gluten-related, you should be just fine.

Today, most restaurants are aware of food restrictions and allergies, and they may offer recommendations based on their current menu. However, don't be surprised if they prefer to keep a dish unchanged while accommodating your request as best they can.

7. Is the water safe to drink?

As a general guideline, you can use tap water to brush your teeth, but avoid swallowing it. The quality and sanitation of tap water can vary depending on the borough of the city.

As a result, residents of Mexico City typically drink filtered or bottled water. Since 2014, local regulations mandate that restaurants provide filtered water to patrons at no extra charge.

Any ice used in drinks, aguas frescas (fruit beverages), and cocktails is made from filtered water. Likewise, coffee shops and juice stands also prepare their beverages with filtered water.

8. How safe is Mexico City regarding crime?

The safety of Mexico City largely depends on your perspective. Wandering through central neighborhoods like Roma, Polanco, Coyoacán, or Condesa is generally much safer than similar activities in parts of cities like San Francisco, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., or Chicago. In recent years, the government has boosted security patrols across many areas, making the city overall safe.

As with any large city, stay alert and be conscious of your belongings. Be cautious of petty crimes and pickpockets, especially in tourist hotspots. If you find yourself in crowded settings like a soccer match, concert, or festival, keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or watches.

When using public transport like the Metro or buses, be vigilant about pickpockets. It's advisable to skip regular taxis in favor of Uber.

Certain neighborhoods in Mexico City warrant extra caution, even from locals. Always check local advice if you plan to venture into less familiar areas. If a place feels uncomfortable or unsafe, it's best to avoid it altogether.

9. Avoid drinking alcohol in public and steer clear of drugs

Consuming alcohol on the streets of Mexico City is against the law. This city is not like Tulum, Cancún, or Los Cabos. If you are caught drinking in public, you risk facing fines or even imprisonment.

In 2009, Mexico's government passed legislation to decriminalize possessing small amounts of drugs for personal use. However, it's wise to refrain from using any drugs in Mexico to steer clear of potential legal issues.

10. Keep hydrated to combat altitude effects

Situated in a valley on the high central plateau of Mexico, Mexico City sits at an elevation of 2240 meters. You may feel more fatigued than usual in the first couple of days. It's crucial to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. Additionally, you might find that alcohol affects you more quickly due to the altitude.

Fortunately, you can find bottles of electrolytes at any OXXO or 7-11. Locals refer to them as electrolitos, and once you spot the bottles, you'll notice them everywhere. Electrolitos come in various flavors like coconut, lime, and strawberry, and they're fantastic for alleviating hangovers.

11. Be aware of potential earthquakes

Mexico City does experience earthquakes from time to time, and both the city and its residents are well-prepared. The country has a reliable seismic alert system that provides up to a 60-second warning before an earthquake strikes.

If you hear the alarm, remain calm, avoid panicking, and follow the locals to a safe location to ride out the earthquake. Hotels, restaurants, government buildings, apartments, offices, and schools have established safety protocols.

Every year, Mexico City conducts earthquake drills to enhance safety measures for first responders and give residents a chance to practice emergency protocols. If you find yourself in Mexico City during an earthquake, keeping calm is the most important step for your safety.