I just spent a week under the warm Mexican sun. It was my very first time in the country, and rather than heading to the beaches of the Yucatán or of Los Cabos, I decided to spend some time in the capital: Mexico City.
Mexico City has a reputation for being chaotic, congested, and polluted. Which is understandable, considering it’s the most populous city on the continent. But I had also heard a lot of positive things about it and was curious to explore.
Since I was traveling alone, I had some apprehensions. Ultimately, my stay in Mexico City exceeded my expectations. Not only did I feel generally safe, I also fell in love with the city!
Here are three reasons why Mexico City stole my heart!
Mexico City, a city with a rich past
Mexico City is the oldest capital in the Americas. Before the arrival of Europeans, the Mexica built their city here, which was then called Tenochtitlan. Tenochtitlan was then the capital of the Aztec empire and, at its height, was the largest city in pre-Columbian America.
Tenochtitlan was captured and destroyed by the Spanish in 1521. They rebuilt it according to European urban standards, destroying the main temple of Tenochtitlan and building the cathedral of the new city on top of it.
Mexico City became the capital of New Spain. Nicknamed the “City of Palaces,” it played a major role in the development of the colonial empire and continued to grow after Mexican independence in 1821.
The historic center of Mexico City is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city’s rich history is especially evident when strolling through the Zócalo (Mexico City’s main square). There, you can see (and visit) the ruins of the Templo Mayor, the main temple of Tenochtitlan, as well as the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. As a history buff, I really enjoyed learning more about the city’s history!
Mexico City, a colourful and artistic city
I loved Mexico City’s vibrant atmosphere. Despite its somewhat chaotic nature, I really enjoyed its architecture, its colours, and its many museums. The city is known for its many murals (including the famous Diego Rivera murals), for its beloved child Frida Kahlo, but also for its numerous galleries and its art scene with varied influences.
One week in Mexico City wasn’t enough time to visit all the museums and everything the city has to offer, but let’s just say that the little glimpse I got definitely made me want to return one day.
Mexico City, a foodie’s paradise
It’s the first thing many people say when they talk about Mexico City: that the food is excellent. I expected it, but eating in Mexico City will remain one of the most memorable memories of my trip. From tacos bought on the street to enfrilojadas enjoyed in a cantina, I feel like everything I ate was bursting with flavor.
And yes, like a good tourist, I even ate chapulines (grasshoppers) and was introduced to mezcal and pulque!
So I really enjoyed my time in the city and Mexico in general. It was a good reminder that beyond its beaches and its sometimes chequered reputation, Mexico deserves to be explored in depth!
Thanks for the memories have plenty on it and Mexico in my blog i visited the city and country every year from 2012 to 2018. Cheers
I’m off to Mexico City in November and will be by myself the first couple of days, so I’m glad to hear you not only loved the city but felt safe there. Good to know the food is excellent, too!
Yes, I felt pretty safe! I even went out for runs! The city has a pretty cool vibe, I would definitely go back.
Aw how lovely – I’ve always wanted to visit, but worried about the language as I don’t speak any Spanish.
My Spanish is really basic (I understand it okay, but am struggling speaking it), and I was able to manage. Nowadays, it’s easier to get around with translation apps!
Your photos are very beautiful, Vanessa! The mural has a ton of details. I think the border situation the US is involved in adds to the bad reputation of Mexico.
I think so too. To me, walking around Mexico City didn’t feel any different than walking around any other big cities! It was quite an interesting place to visit. Thanks for reading, John!
We loved Mexico City too, and there are so many other amazing cities to visit without going to the beach😊 Maggie
I agree! I really enjoyed the city too, it is now high on my list of favourites! 🙂
Like many places, Mexico City gets a bad rap based on the bad experiences of a few. Glad you had some good ones Vanessa. As you say, Mexican food is never short on flavour. I think I would have given the grasshoppers a miss, but good on you. Happy weekend. Allan
The grasshoppers weren’t too bad! I was surprised at how safe Mexico City felt, especially as a woman traveling alone. It was overall a really cool city. Thanks for reading Allan!
You’re welcome! ❤️