Mexico City

From Aztec temples to Art Deco palaces to gleaming skyscrapers, you can read the history of Mexico’s capital city in its architecture. Delve deeper into the culture with visits to world-class museums, theaters, street markets, plazas and parks. The political, economic and cultural center of Mexico enthralls visitors with its cosmopolitan air and welcoming residents.

GETTING THERE & AROUND

Arrive at Benito Juárez International Airport, about 10 miles from most hotels, and opt for taxi (20 minutes), bus (30 minutes), metro (one hour), hotel shuttle or rideshare. Visit neighborhoods on foot; use metro (purchase a rechargeable smart card), taxi or rideshare between districts. ECOBICI, the public bike-sharing program, presents a convenient and eco-friendly choice.

LODGING

Condesa DF

Mexico’s first designer boutique hotel, Condesa DF provides quiet, contemporary accommodations in a lively neighborhood. The rooftop La Terraza is famed for its sushi bar and unmatched cocktails, while the open-air El Patio serves an acclaimed Sunday brunch and daily seasonal fare.

Av. Veracruz 102, Roma Nte., 06700 Mexico City, Mexico, tel 52 55 5241 2600 condesadf.com

Gran Hotel Ciudad de México

This elegant Art Nouveau hotel lies within walking distance of the historic center’s main sites. Its rooftop restaurant and bar offer excellent views, while guests can also enjoy business and fitness centers and meeting and event space.

Av. 16 de Septiembre 82, Centro, 06000 Mexico City, Mexico, tel 52 55 1083 7700 granhotel delaciudaddemexico.com.mx

JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City

Located in the Polanco district, this modern, upscale property features guestrooms with marble bathrooms, a fitness center, sauna, outdoor pool, restaurant and lobby bar as well as an outdoor terrace and event space.

Andres Bello 29, Polanco, 11560 Mexico City, Mexico, tel 52 55 5999 0000 marriott.com

Summer Palace:

Chapultepec Castle

PHOTO: © CHON KIT LEONG | DREAMSTIME.COM

DINING

Máximo Bistrot

Relying on local, seasonal ingredients, the menu changes daily, offering international cuisine with a Mexican flair. An extensive wine list and drinks menu complement the tasting menu and à la carte options. Av. Álvaro Obregón 65 Bis, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Mexico City, Mexico, tel 52 55 5264 4291 maximobistrot.com.mx

Mercado de San Juan

Open daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. and located in the historic center, this market caters to chefs, foodies and restaurateurs in search of gourmet and exotic foods. Pick up items for a picnic: fruit, cheese and perhaps something more unusual. Dried scorpions, anyone? Stalls serving prepared food are located in another building a block away.

2 Calle de Ernesto Pugibet 21, Centro, 06000 Mexico City, Mexico, alcaldiacuauhtemoc.mx/descubre/ mercado-de-san-juan

Quintonil

Heirloom vegetables and herbs and other “forgotten” Mexican ingredients appear in unique, contemporary dishes at this World’s 50 Best Restaurants member. Order à la carte or choose the seasonal tasting menu and wine pairings.

Av. Isaac Newton 55, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Mexico City, Mexico, tel 52 55 5280 2680 quintonil.com ATTRACTIONS

Chapultupec Park

Encompassing more than two square miles, Mexico City’s largest park is home to several museums (including the national museums of Anthropology, Modern Art and Natural History), Aztec relics, a zoo, lakes and botanic gardens.

Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City, Mexico, tel 52 55 5271 1939 data.sedema.cdmx.gob.mx/ bosquedechapultepec

Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela

This traditional Mexican market with more than 350 vendors is the spot to seek out traditional crafts and folk art from all over the country. Find ceramics, textiles, jewelry, metal and wood crafts, baskets and musical instruments.

Avenida Balderas y Plaza de la Ciudadela, Centro, Mexico City 06040, Mexico, tel 52 55 5510 1828

Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución)

Part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and lying at the heart of the city’s historic center, the Zócalo is one of the world’s largest city squares. Here you will find Palacio de Bellas Artes; the magnificent Metropolitan Cathedral; Palacio Nacional; and the ruins of Templo Mayor, the main Aztec temple. The plaza hosts events and festivals and provides the perfect point from which to launch your exploration of the city.