When planning your trip, you will want to be sure to spend ample time exploring the historic center of Mexico City. There is plenty to do within the historic center of Mexico City, also known at Centro Historico. I would advise spending at least a day here, in order to see the major tourist spots in the city. However, there are plenty of plazas, churches and even ancient landmarks to explore in the historic center of Mexico City, you could spend days in this neighborhood.
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Things to do in the Historic Center of Mexico City
Zocalo
The Zocalo is the main square in Mexico City and is considered to be one of the largest city squares in the world. This vast open space is surrounded by the city’s most historically important buildings. In the center of the Zocalo is a large Mexican Flag. Aside from that, this square is empty almost year round, aside from events that take place here.
Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral
The Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral 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.
Templo Mayor
Templo Mayor is a former Aztec ruin of the ancient state of Tenochtitlan, the Teocalli. The Teocalli of Tenochtitlán covered the site where the cathedral now stands. This site is of huge significance to the Aztecs. It is said that 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.
Casa de los Azulejos or “House of Tiles”
The House of Tiles is an 18th-century palace in the Historic Center Mexico City. This former palace is adorned in blue and white tiles. Every inch of the building is covered in tiles.
Madero Street
Madero Street is a busy, pedestrian only street in the Historic Center. This is a popular shopping street, which is crowded with people as soon as the shops open. Here you will find popular shops as well as street vendors.
Church of San Francisco
Church of San Francisco is located on Madero Street in the Historic Center of Mexico City. This church is the one calm spot on an otherwise busy street.
Torre Latinoamericana
Torre Latinoamericana is a skyscraper located in the Historic Center of Mexico City. This skyscraper is one of the most iconic and well recognized landmarks in Mexico City as it withstood the 1985 earthquake without any damage. Torre Latinoamericana is visible throughout most of the Centro Historico, sticking out above the buildings.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
The Palacio de Bellas Artes is one of the most beautiful buildings in Mexico City. This building is the cultural center in Mexico City; hosting music, dance and theatre performances. This art deco building is visited by tourists and locals alike. The building is best appreciated when the sun is shinning through the dragon scale roof tiles.
Alameda Central
Alameda Central is a public park next to the Palacio de Bellas Artes. Built in 1592, Alameda Central Park is one of the oldest city parks in the Americas. This park allows you to get some fresh air in Mexico City while still being close to the action. Additionally, Alameda Center is a great spot to to view the Jacaranda when they are in bloom.
La Ciudadela
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 is full hand-painted plates and bowls, woven rugs, leather shoes and so much more. This is a great spot to find a unique souvenir to bring home. Browse through the stalls of brightly covered fabrics as you make your way through the maze of La Ciudadela.
Where to Eat/Drink in the Historic Center of Mexico City
Cafe don Porfirio (Sears)
Cafe don Porfirio is located on the top floor of Sears. Yes, Sears, the department store. This cafe offers of variety of beverages including specialty coffees and hot chocolates. The best part about this cafe is its’ unparalleled view of the Palacio Bella Artes. Cafe don Porfirio is a great sunset spot.
Street Tacos
This might sound kind of 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. This restaurant sits in an open-air courtyard of the 17th-century Downtown Mexico Hotel, decorated with tall trees and lanterns. It has an ethereal ambiance. While reservations are recommended, it’s possible to secure a table last minute. The menu as 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 is the Historic Center of Mexico City. This location is open 24/7, making it a great treat for anytime of the day.
Mexico City Hotels in Centro Historico
There are various places to stay in Mexico City. Yet, these are some of the best Mexico City hotels in Centro Historico.
Hotel Zocalo Central
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