Tour Details
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Product Type
- Tour
- Venues
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- Bellas Artes Museum
- Zócalo
- Metropolitan Cathedral
- Templo Mayor
- Condesa Neighborhood
- Roma Neighborhood
Select a date
Tour Description
This full-day tour, our most comprehensive in Mexico City, is meant to give newcomers an overview of the magnificent metropolis through three distinct neighborhoods: Centro Histórico, Roma, and Condesa. In the company of a local expert in history, architecture, or archaeology, you’ll experience the incredible evolution of the city — from Aztec capital to the largest city in North America— by visiting archaeological sites, architectural masterpieces, and some of the hippest neighborhoods, all while learning the interwoven history of the city’s ancient roots, urban modernization, art movements, and politics.
Experts
- Zócalo
- Templo Mayor
- Metropolitan Cathedral
- Bellas Artes Museum
- Roma Neighborhood
- Condesa Neighborhood
Your day of Mexican adventure begins at a local cafe in the Zócalo (the city’s main square) with a briefing on our day ahead. You’ll kick off your overview of Mexico City history at the oldest site on the tour—the archaeological ruins of Templo Mayor, the main historical temple of the Mexica (also known as Aztec) people which was constructed around 1325. Your guide will use this as a backdrop to discuss the city’s Aztec beginnings, a history still felt today. From there, you will make your way to the Metropolitan Cathedral, an impressive architectural accomplishment and an opportunity for your guide to discuss Spanish influence on the city.
You’ll walk the streets of the Centro Histórico, making your way to the impressive Bella Artes, a beautiful cultural center that will foster discussion about notable Mexican muralists (including Diego Rivera and José Clemente Orozco) and their contributions to the Mexican identity that exists today. Just a short walk away, down the pedestrian thoroughfare of Calle Madero, you’ll also see the intricately designed 16th-century palace known as “Casa de los Azulejos” (House of Tiles).
After this exploration of the historic center, you’ll take a leap in time (and a taxi) to the Roma and Condesa neighborhoods. Stopping at a local restaurant, you will have the opportunity to talk to your guide about what you’ve learned or ask any questions on your mind over lunch (at your own expense). You’ll then start your exploration of these local artistic and creative neighborhoods, soaking up Art Deco architecture, lush green parks, and quirky galleries. This area is much more than just bars and restaurants, your expert will help you explore the trends, politics, and economics of Roma and Condesa and the role they played in the history of the metropolis.
By the end of this wonderful day filled with some of Mexico City’s most famous sites and areas, you’ll have a deeper understanding and appreciation of this vibrant capital, with both a historical and modern lens, setting you up for your own further explorations of the city.
If a full-day tour doesn’t suit your schedule, you can also get an overview of the city in our Introduction to Mexico City: Explore the Historic Center Tour. Interested in exploring other sides of this vibrant and lively city? Check out our Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera Art Tour and our Tequila and Mariachi Night Tour.
For more information about Context tours, please visit our FAQs.
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Where do we meet? Where does the tour end?
You’ll meet your expert guide in the historic center of Mexico City at Zócalo and ends in either the Roma or Condesa neighborhood. Your confirmation email will include the exact meeting point details and a map.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
This tour is fairly walking-intensive and there are stairs at some venues. Please contact us to discuss your mobility concerns in more detail so we can best advise.
What costs will I need to cover on the day?
The cost of lunch is not included in the tour. However, your museum ticket and tasting fee is added to your cart during tour checkout, so that will be pre-paid and all set. This is included so that the guide can take care of tour expenses and you can simply enjoy.
Where You'll Start
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44 Reviews
Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ.
Jens was great. He started with loads of history, but he was very responsive to my requests for a more sensory experience of the city. We saw loads of interesting sights and markets. Just tell him what you'd like to do, and you'll have a great day. He's a wonderful companion and guide.
Rob
Oct. 25, 2024
Gabriel was knowledgeable and engaging. He shared stories and history and enjoyed the insights he provided during our tour.
Lisa
Oct. 9, 2024
My daughter and I had a great day with Diego. He was interesting, informative and fun. I really appreciated his depth of knowledge and love of the city as well as helpful visual aids. It was a great intro to Mexico City. Thank you Diego!
Scott
Jun. 29, 2024