As the second-largest city in the Americas, Mexico City isn’t easy to research, navigate, or explore on your own.
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While Americans who have spent time in Mexico before are likely to feel a bit more comfortable with the language and culture, the city’s sheer scale and complex history aren’t for the faint of heart. In other words, you might want a few tips about where to go and what to do. (Also, where to stay!)
Whether it’s your first time in CDMX or you’re returning to hole up for winter, get inspired with these activities from well-known providers and small tour companies alike. These tours in Mexico City will give you memories that will last—and a reason to come back soon.
A quick note: Before I list out the various tours in Mexico City that are worth your time, know that you can also create your own DIY tour itinerary with companies like Tours by Locals. Just reach out to a local who you want to book with, then let them know what you’re hoping to see and do. They’ll create an itinerary that meets your needs.
If you want to mix-and-match tours yourself, start with the options listed below.
Culture & history tours in Mexico City
Lucha Libre Tour
You have many options when it comes to attending a Lucha Libre match in Mexico City—but this tour gives you the chance to actually learn about wrestling from a Lucha Libre pro. Though retired, he knows the history and cultural impact of Lucha Libre, which you’ll learn about throughout this tour.
Anthropology Museum Private Tour
I don’t usually recommend tours that include museum tickets. You’re better off booking a guided tour directly with the museum. But this is a little different because Mexico’s Museum of Anthropology houses some of the coolest collections of pre-Columbian artifacts. You’ll need a pro to explain what’s going on, in other words. Expect the unexpected!
Historic Downtown Walking Tour
No need to reinvent the (tour) wheel. This downtown walking tour gives you a front-row seat to Mexico City’s most important historical sites. You’ll get to see attractions like the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Metropolitan Cathedral, amongst others. Like the food tour listed above, this is also a small-group tour.
Private Tour of Chapultepec Castle
Delve into Mexico’s complex history at Chapultepec Castle, a former palace that’s now home to the National Museum of History. There’s more than what appears to the eye—and your expert guide will help you learn about the location’s Aztec origins.
Art Gallery Immersion in Roma & Condesa
Take a closer look at Mexico City’s booming contemporary art scene with this guided tour of popular galleries in Roma and Condesa. Along the way, you’ll also get a lay of the land of two of the city’s most popular neighborhoods.
Diega Rivera’s Murals Walking Tour
Diego Rivera was an anthropologist and artist who helped create Museo Anahuacali, which is high on my bucket list. Rivera is also Frida Kahlo’s husband, and he painted gorgeous murals around the city that touch on the city’s ancient Mesoamerican past that you can still feel today.
Mexican Folklore Ballet
Get a comfy seat as you watch one of the city’s most colorful and exciting shows take place. You’ll get to see traditional Mexican folk dances and gowns from each of the country’s regions. Your ticket also includes hotel pickup.
Foodie & boozy tours in Mexico City
Michelin Taco Bike Tour
Take a guided bike tour through Roma and Condesa, two of Mexico City’s most popular neighborhoods. While you do, you’ll stop at famous taquerias that are recommended by the Michelin Guide.
3-Hour Night Tacos and Mezcal Crawl
If you’re looking for a more casual taco-based tour, take this taqueria crawl through the Roma neighborhood. It comes with mezcal tastings, as well. Keep in mind that all tacos contain red meat—this isn’t suitable for vegans or vegetarians.
Tequila And Mezcal Museum Tour w/Tasting
Looking for a boozy adventure that’s got more to offer than a bar crawl? This Tequila and Mezcal Museum tour lets you dig into the history, cultural impact, and current operations of popular Mexican tequila and Mezcal brands. Plus, you get a tasting when the museum visit ends.
Cooking Class with Food Market Visit
Step into a local chef’s home kitchen for a warm, engaging cooking lesson. Not only will you learn how to whip up Mexican specialties, but you also get to explore and shop at a nearby food market. For foodies, for beginners, for anyone who likes Mexican flavors.
Mexico City Historical Centre Food Tour with 7 Authentic Tastings
Explore the historical center of Mexico City with a foodie guide who’s passionate about good food. This tour gives you the chance to sample local favorites, like Aztec chilaquiles and unique sweet treats. Plus, it’s a small group tour, meaning you can connect with other guests and the guide.
Cycling tours in Mexico City
19 City Highlights Bicycle Tour
I’m not one to take bicycle tours, but if you’re the type to enjoy a little pedaling on vacation, this is the top tour in Mexico City. You’ll cycle to 19 sites around the city over a three-four hour period, exploring places like the Historic Center, Juarez, and Roma.
Art Naco Murals Street Art Tour
If you aren’t a huge fan of historical sites but want to cycle around CDMX, this tour focuses on street art. This leisurely ride also includes stops that let you learn about local culture, traditions, lifestyle, and even food, as you’ll stop for a bite of popular street food.
Tours that take you outside of Mexico City
Xochimilco Tour
Xochimilco is the Nahuatl word for ‘field of flowers’, and is used to describe the chinampas or floating gardens found on Lake Xochimilco. Many tours to Xochimilco are bundled with visits to the Frieda Kahlo Museum—but I recommend visiting the floating gardens to have a little fiesta on board a colorful boat. You get free drinks, Mariachi music, and snacks.
Eco Reserve of Xochimilco
Xochimilco isn’t just a lake where party boats assemble—part of the site is also an eco-reserve with UNESCO-listed canals. You’ll explore them in a traditional vessel while you learn about the area’s history and its agricultural impact on Mexico.
Xochimilco: Island of the Dolls
Hidden away deep within Xochimilco’s canals lies one of the world’s most famous haunted locations: the Island of the Dolls. The small island is covered in baby dolls of all shapes and sizes. Yes, the story behind this spine-tingling spot is just as creepy as you’d imagine—but I won’t spoil it for any visitors.
Nevado de Toluca: Reach the summit
Mountain climbing… in Mexico City? This tour takes you out of the city to a nearby volcano. You’ll pass by lagoons as you climb slowly toward the summit, then get to inspect the sunken volcanic crater. Your safety guide stays with you the whole hike, giving you pointers and teaching you about the landscape.
Early & Express Tolantongo Hot Springs
Did you know that tiered hot springs await you just outside Mexico City? These lush hot springs look like something from the Mediterranean with a backdrop of mountains and caves. This early-morning tour lets you get in and out before the daily rush. Plus, your guide is there to help you learn about the park.
Puebla, Cholula, & Tonantzintla Tour
Get out of Mexico City to explore three popular towns around the city. Your guide will showcase landmarks in each village, then let you sample famous dishes at local restaurants. Come hungry!
Mexico City Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Tour
Speaking of my bucket list, Mexico City is close to large sanctuaries for monarch butterflies that head to the area to overwinter. This tour takes you to Sierra Chincua, home to pine trees that the monarchs favor. Your tour includes a visit to the sanctuary, along with dining at a local Michoacan restaurant.
Teotihuacan Morning or Afternoon
Skip the lines and the tourist traps with this no-frills tour of Teotihuacan. Tours are mindfully scheduled in the early morning or late afternoon to help you skip out on the massive crowds. Plus, your guide will zero in on history and architecture, letting you learn the truth about this famous landmark.
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