The vibrant Historic Center of Mexico City is one of the best neighborhoods to explore in CDMX. This historic neighborhood is one of the most significant areas in Mexico City and is a must-visit. Bursting with history and culture and some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, Centro Historico offers much to discover.
When planning your trip, you will want to spend ample time exploring the Historic Center of Mexico City, also known as Centro Historico. There is plenty to do here, and I recommend spending at least a day to see the major tourist spots. However, there are plenty of plazas, churches, and ancient landmarks to explore; you could spend days in this neighborhood.
Let’s dive into the guide to the Historic Center of Mexico City.
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Before You Go
🛏️ Book the incredible Grand Hotel Ciudad de Mexico, an iconic hotel in the Historic Center of Mexico City with views of the Zocalo and a Tiffany Glass ceiling!
🎟️ Best tours: This Historic Center Food Tour and this Walking Tour of Centro Historico.
Table of Contents
About the Historic Center of Mexico City
Centro Historico is the most historically and culturally significant area of Mexico City. This neighborhood is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hosts some of the most iconic sights in Mexico City. This area has many landmarks that date back to the Aztec era.
This neighborhood was built on the ruins of the former Aztec capital city, Tenochtitlan. Amid the landmarks of present-day Mexico City are ruins of pyramids from ancient Tenochtitlan. Seeing the ruins throughout the city center was reminiscent of exploring Rome.
As you explore the Historic Center of Mexico City, you can appreciate its extensive history through the blend of architectural styles used throughout the years. From ancient Aztec ruins to the popular colonial buildings in the city, it is a treat for architectural lovers to explore Centro Historico.
Where in Centro Historico?
As the name suggests, the Historic Center of Mexico City is in the city’s center. From Centro Historico, all the other neighborhoods branch out.
Due to its centrality, Centro Historico is a great place to base yourself when staying in Mexico City.
Things to do in the Historic Center of Mexico City
There is much to see and do in the Historic Center of Mexico City. This neighborhood has so many layers and beautiful corners to explore.
I loved exploring Centro Historico! There is something so special about the Historic Center of Mexico City. The architecture is stunning! And there are so many culturally significant spots to explore. You must explore this area on any trip to Mexico City. Here are the best things to do in Centro Historico:
Visit the Zocalo
A Zocalo is a city’s main square and can be found in most Mexican cities. Yet, due to its’ sheer scale and historical importance, the Zocalo in Mexico City is incomparable.
The Zocalo in Mexico City, officially named Plaza de la Constitucion, is one of the largest city squares in the world! This vast open space is surrounded by the city’s most historically important buildings. The Catedral Metropolitana, Palacio Nacional, and Templo Mayor line three of the sides of the square. In the center of the Zocalo is a large Mexican Flag, which waves dramatically in this historical square. This flag is raised and lowered daily by the Mexican Army.
Various events take place in this square throughout the year. Yet, for the most part, the Zocalo is a place to gather. You’ll find vendors, tourists, and locals enjoying this iconic square’s atmosphere.
Mexico City’s Metropolitan Cathedral
Mexico City’s Metropolitan Cathedral, Catedral Metropolitana, is Latin America’s largest and oldest cathedral. This is one of the most visually interesting cathedrals I have seen because it encompassed various architectural styles, including Baroque, Neo-Classic, and Neo-Renaissance. Depending on the angle, it feels as if you are looking at multiple different cathedrals rather than one. This cathedral took over 200 years to complete, which is the reason that so many architectural styles were used.
Visiting the cathedral is free; however, tourists are not permitted to visit during mass. I highly recommend walking through Catedral Metropolitana. It is one of the most grand cathedrals I’ve ever been in.
Explore Templo Mayor
Templo Mayor is a former Aztec ruin of the ancient Tenochtitlan, the Teocalli. The Teocalli of Tenochtitlán covered the site where the cathedral now stands. This site is of enormous significance to the Aztecs. In this spot, the Aztecs saw their symbolic eagle perching on a cactus with a snake on its beak, which is the symbol of Mexico today. The Aztecs believe that this spot is the center of the universe.
Many of these ruins are outside, so you can walk around and view them for free. However, I wish I had time to take a guided tour to understand Templo Mayor’s history and significance better.
Get your Skip the Line Tickets here!
Casa de los Azulejos or “House of Tiles”
The House of Tiles is an 18th-century palace in the Historic Center of Mexico City. This former palace is adorned with blue and white tiles and is one of the most striking buildings in Mexico City. Every inch of the building is covered in tiles! The blue and white backsplash makes a fantastic photo spot in Mexico City.
While the exterior is the true showstopper, this building houses a department store/restaurant, Sanborns, that is worth checking out.
Stroll Along Avenida Francisco I. Madero
Avenida Francisco I. Madero is a busy, pedestrian-only street in the Historic Center. This popular shopping street, also known as Madero Street, runs from the Zocola and is crowded with people as soon as the shops open. Here, you will find popular shops and street vendors.
Even if you’re not in the mood to shop, you should still meander down Madero Street. This is a great street to wander down, people-watch, and appreciate some of the beautiful architecture in Centro Historico. One such building is the Church of San Francisco, a historic church tucked away on this busy shopping street.
Avenida Francisco I. Madero offers a great view of Torre Latinoamericana. The juxtaposition of the historic architecture and the modern Torre Latinoamericana is the distance is quite striking.
Take in the View from Torre Latinoamericana
Torre Latinoamericana is a skyscraper in the Historic Center of Mexico City. It is one of the city’s most iconic and well-recognized landmarks, having withstood the 1985 earthquake without damage. The skyscraper is visible throughout most of the Centro Historico, sticking out above the buildings.
If you want an incredible bird-eye view of Mexico City, head to the open-air observation deck at Torre Latinoamericana. The observation deck is located on the 44th floor, allowing you to see this metropolis from above.
The tower also has a cafe, restaurant, and bar on the 41st floor, which offers a similar view, though with fewer vantage points. Grabbing a drink at the cafe or bar is an excellent alternative if you want to enjoy the view in a more relaxing way.
Price: $12.44
Tickets for the Observation Deck on the 44th Floor
Palacio de Bellas Artes
The Palacio de Bellas Artes is one of the most beautiful buildings in Mexico City. Its Art Nouveau exterior and Art Deco interior make it a sight to behold. Palacio de Bellas Artes is best appreciated when the sun is shining through the dragon-scale roof tiles, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a time when this building isn’t captivating.
Palacio de Bellas Artes is a cultural center in Mexico City that hosts music, dance, and theatre performances. If you’d like to experience this theater, you can buy tickets to one of the concerts or the Mexican Folkloric Ballet.
There is a permanent collection of murals on display inside Palacio de Bellas Artes, which are well worth checking out. While enjoying the beautiful interior, you can learn more about architecture at The National Museum of Architecture on the top floor of Palacio de Bellas Artes.
Folkloric Ballet Tickets: $141.48 per person
Location: Palacio de Bellas Artes
Book Here: Mexican Folkloric Ballet
Relax in Alameda Central
Alameda Central is a public park next to the Palacio de Bellas Artes. Built in 1592, it is one of the oldest city parks in the Americas and the oldest in Mexico City. This park allows visitors to get some fresh air while still being close to the action of Centro Historico.
This historic park is idyllic for wandering around. Decorated with fountains, sculptures, and the famous monument, Hemiciclo a Benito Jaurez, Alamande Central is the perfect place to relax and appreciate the culture and architecture of Mexico City.
Alameda Center is a great spot to view the Jacarandas when they are in bloom. I was delighted to visit this park when the flowering purple trees were in bloom.
Palacio Postal
Palacio Postal is a working postal office in the Historic Center of Mexico City with the most beautiful Art Nouveau interior. The ornate interior has gold trim and a grand marble staircase. It is worth popping in to appreciate the beauty of Palacio Postal and take a few photos.
I am remiss to say that I missed visiting Palacio Postal. I had it on my list of things to do, yet somehow forgot to go. But just because I missed a visit doesn’t mean you should.
Mexico City’s China Town – Barrio Chino
Discover a neighborhood within a neighborhood in Mexico City’s Chinatown. This small section of Centro Historico, around Calle Dolores, has various Chinese eateries. Barrio Chino is a great place to get your fill of dumplings and soak in the culture of this neighborhood.
The large archway notes the entrance to Barrio Chino, and lanterns or other decorations are often hanging above the street. Barrio Chino is a small area, but worth walking through.
Tiffany Glass Ceiling at the Grand Hotel
While exploring Centro Historico, you must visit the Grand Hotel, which has the largest Tiffany Glass ceiling in the world. This space was once a private residence, later turned into a shopping center. This historic building houses one of the best hotels in the Historic Center of Mexico City today.
I highly recommend staying at this luxurious hotel (I stayed here for two nights and loved it!). But even if you’re not a guest, pop into the lobby to check out this impressive Tiffany Glass Ceiling.
Price: doubles from $202 per night
Check Availability | Read Reviews | Book Here
Explore the La Ciudadela Market
La Ciudadela is the traditional textile Market in Mexico City. While technically just outside the perimeter of the Historic Center of Mexico City, this market is worth including. La Ciudadela has hand-painted plates and bowls, woven rugs, leather shoes, and more. This is a great spot to find a unique souvenir to bring home. Browse through the stalls of brightly covered fabrics as you walk through the maze of La Ciudadela.
Where to Eat in the Historic Center of Mexico City
Cafe don Porfirio (Sears)
Cafe Don Porfirio is located on the top floor of Sears – yes, the department store. This cafe offers a variety of beverages, including specialty coffees and hot chocolates. The best part is its unparalleled view of the Palacio Bella Artes. I highly recommend grabbing a drink and watching the sunset from Cafe Don Porfirio.
Street Tacos
This might sound vague, but trust me, eat street tacos! You will see one of the hundreds of vendors selling tacos. The aromas of fried meat, onions, and peppers waft into the street, enticing you to enter the small shops and stop by the stands. These tacos are very cheap and very delicious.
Azul Historico
Azul Historico is one of the most popular restaurants in Mexico City. It is located in the open-air courtyard of the 17th-century Downtown Mexico Hotel, decorated with tall trees and lanterns. The restaurant has an ethereal ambiance. While reservations are recommended, securing a table at the last minute is possible. The menu offers a variety of choices, including traditional fare, such as guacamole with crickets.
Churros el Moro
Churros el Moro is the first churro shop in Mexico City. While there are multiple locations in the city, the original location can be found in the Historic Center of Mexico City. This location is open 24/7, making it an excellent treat for any time of the day. The churros here were so delicious!
Hotels in Centro Historico
There are various places to stay in Mexico City. These are some of the best Mexico City hotels in Centro Historico.
I adored being based in Centro Historico and had the pleasure of staying in two hotels in this neighborhood.
Hotel Zocalo Central
Hotel Zocalo Central is a charming boutique hotel near the Zocalo. This hotel is within walking distance of the major sites in the Historic Center of Mexico City.
Check rates: Booking.com ; Read reviews: Trip Advisor
Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico
This Mexico City hotel in Centro Historico is a historical gem with a beautiful Tiffany-stained glass ceiling.
Check rates: Booking.com ; Read reviews: Trip Advisor
Historic Center of Mexico City Tours
You can explore Centro Historico independently. Much of this neighborhood can be seen by wandering around. However, if you want better to understand the history and significance of the area, a walking tour is the way to go!
Historic Center Food Tour in Mexico City
If you don’t want to navigate the bustling markets and choose which street tacos are the best, I highly recommend joining a food tour! This half-day Historic Center Food Tour in Mexico City allows you to discover the gastronomy of this neighborhood with a local guide.
Historic Center Walking Tour
If you’re a history buff and don’t have time to research Centro Historico’s history before your trip, this Walking Tour of Centro Historico is for you! This guided tour brings you to all the key spots in this guide, yet with an informative guide who will share all the historic bits with you.
For more travel inspiration, check out these posts:
🪻Jacarandas in Mexico City – How to See this Beautiful Bloom
🛏️Where to Stay in Mexico City: Best Neighborhoods and Hotels
📚 Cafebreria el Pendulo: Mexico City Bookstores Worth Visiting
For more UK travel, check out my Mexico section!
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