4 Days in Mexico City : Ultimate CDMX Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Are you wondering how to spend 4 days in Mexico City or what to see in CDMX?
Mexico City had been on my travel bucket list for quite some time. Known for its rich culture, vibrant art scene, and dynamic history, the capital of Mexico fascinated me, especially after I learned about Frida Kahlo and her deep connection with the city. Her colorful world had planted a vivid image in my mind of a city bursting with energy, color, and creativity.
In case you didn’t know, Mexico City is the capital of Mexico, located right in the heart of the country. It’s one of the largest and most vibrant cities in the world – packed with history, culture, street food, art, and so much more! You’ll often hear people call it CDMX, which stands for Ciudad de México (Spanish for “Mexico City”). So if you see Mexico City, CDMX, or Ciudad de México – they all mean the same amazing place!
I’ll be honest, I had my reservations to visit Mexico in general. I had read and heard many things about safety concerns and was skeptical about traveling to Mexico. But my curiosity overpowered my fears, and I finally booked a trip to the capital city of Mexico. And let me tell you – Mexico City surprised me in the best way possible. The warmth of the people, the welcoming atmosphere, the explosion of colors and flavors, I was absolutely in awe. Though I’m yet to explore other parts of Mexico, my four days in the capital gave me a heartfelt introduction to this country.
If you’ve ever hesitated about visiting Mexico, I hope this guide inspires you to plan a trip to Mexico city. Whether you’re planning 4 days in Mexico City, searching for a complete CDMX itinerary, or just looking for travel tips for your Mexico City itinerary, this guide has everything you need to get started.

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How to Get to Mexico City
Mexico City is well connected with major international airlines flying in and out daily, especially from the United States. I flew directly from New York City (JFK) to Mexico City (MEX) on AeroMexico, and the flight took about 6 hours.
However, depending on where you are traveling from, your journey may look different than ours. You might be flying directly to Mexico City from the U.S. or another country, or you could be coming here after spending a week in another part of Mexico. If you’re already traveling within Mexico—like from Oaxaca, Cancun, or Guadalajara—buses, domestic flights, or even driving could be great options.
Benito Juárez International Airport is the main airport in Mexico City, located just about 20-30 minutes from the main neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Centro Histórico, depending on traffic. Once you land, you’ll find plenty of airport taxis and Uber available to get into the city.
When it comes to booking flights, the best way is to plan ahead, stay flexible with your travel dates, and use flight comparison tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, Booking.com or Expedia to spot the best prices.
One of my favorite ways to save is by using points and miles from travel credit cards. Sometimes you can book flights for almost nothing – just paying a few dollars for taxes and fees!
I recommend signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium, if you want to save even more on flights & hotels. It’s a service that sends you the best flight deals and special offers right to your email. This way, you don’t have to spend hours looking for discounts – they find them for you!
If you’re an Indian passport holder traveling to Mexico, you’ll generally need a Mexican visa to enter the country. However, if you hold valid multiple-entry U.S. visa, you don’t need a separate Mexican visa.
That said, entry rules can sometimes change, so it’s always a good idea to check the official Mexican immigration website or reach out to your nearest Mexican consulate for the most up-to-date information before you travel.
How to Get Around in Mexico City
Mexico City is big, but getting around is simple. Metro is one of the cheapest and most efficient ways to get around. It covers most parts of the city and only costs around 5 pesos (less than 50 cents USD) per ride. There are also buses and a system called Metrobús, which are both good options for locals and visitors.
That said, for our 4 days in Mexico city, we personally relied on Uber throughout our trip. It was affordable, convenient, and safe. Most rides between neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, or even to places like Coyoacán cost between $3 and $5 (USD) for a 15–20 minute trip.
If you’re staying in walkable areas like Roma, Condesa, or Polanco, you’ll find yourself strolling through beautiful streets filled with cafes, restaurants, and local shops. We walked quite a few times and always felt safe in these neighborhoods.

Best Time to Visit Mexico City
You can visit Mexico City at any time of the year because the weather is usually nice, thanks to its mild and pleasant climate due to high elevation. But the best months to go are from March to May. During this time, it’s warm and dry, and you’ll see beautiful purple jacaranda trees in bloom. It’s perfect for walking around, visiting parks, and enjoying outdoor cafes.
If you’re looking for fewer crowds and slightly cooler temperatures, October to early December is also a great time to visit. From December to February (Winter months), mornings and evenings can be a bit cold, but it’s still relatively pleasant during the day.
You can avoid June to September if you’re not a fan of rain, as this is the rainy season. However, even then, showers are often short and usually happen in the late afternoon.
With that said, I visited Mexico City in June, which is the start of the rainy season. I did not experience any rain while I was there. But from what I have heard, there can be frequent rain especially in the afternoon unless there is severe weather conditions. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, June is still a great time to enjoy the city.
Where to Stay in Mexico City
Accommodation options in Mexico City are plentiful – from chic boutique hotels and Bed & Breakfast (B&B) to luxury stays and budget hostels. I recommend Roma Norte and La Condesa, the two of the best neighborhoods to stay in, based on my research and personal stay. We stayed in a cozy bed and breakfast in Condesa and loved it. Every corner had something interesting—a mural, a cozy cafe, or a small local shop
Another option is staying near the Centro Histórico if you want to be right in the middle of historical attractions like the Zócalo, Palacio de Bellas Artes, and Templo Mayor. However, I found this area to be a bit too chaotic and crowded for my liking. When you’re putting together your Mexico City itinerary, choosing the right neighborhood makes a big difference.
Here are few of my recommendations:
Hostels: Casa Pancha in Condesa ; HOM Roma in Roma Nte ; Casa Pepe Hostal in Centro Histórico
Budget ($100-200) : Casa Comtesse in Condesa ; Casa Decu in Condesa ; Casa Mannach in Condesa; NaNa Vida CDMX in Roma; Hotel Marbella in Roma ; Casa Cibeles by Lumina in Roma; Hotel Catedral in Mexico central; City Centro by Marriott Ciudad de Mexico
Luxury ($200 above) : Gran Hotel Ciudad De Mexico in Mexico central ; Casa Izeba in Roma ; Roso Guest House in Roma
4 Days in Mexico City itinerary
If you’re planning a trip to Mexico City and wondering how to make the most of your time, here’s how I spent my 4 Days in Mexico City. This itinerary blends history, culture, food, and adventure – packed with overall experience of what the capital has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival in Mexico City + Explore Condesa
Once you arrive in Mexico City, head to your hotel and get settled in. We stayed at Casa decu, a cozy, modern hotel located in one of the city’s most charming areas. Condesa is a perfect neighborhood for first-time visitors – safe, walkable, and filled with cafes, restaurants, and beautiful parks. After you’ve checked into your hotel, take a leisurely walk around Parque México and Parque España.
Since Mexico City sits at a high altitude, I would suggest going easy on day one. It’s a good idea to give yourself some time to adjust and just enjoy the laid-back vibe of the city.
After that, grab a cocktail at Baltra Bar, a cozy and creative spot in Condesa known for some of the best drinks in the city. It’s a small place, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation ahead of time.
Another great pick is Handshake Speakeasy—super popular and often ranked among the top bars in the world. Reservations go fast, so book early! If you don’t have one, try getting there right when it opens you might just score a table.



Book Historic Downtown Walking Tour of Mexico City
Day 2: Explore Historic Downtown + Lucha Libre Night
Start your day with breakfast at Panadería Rosetta, a super popular bakery in Roma Norte—and honestly, it lives up to the hype! I had their guava danish with a cup of coffee, and delicious! it was the perfect sweet start to the day. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll love it here. I chose to sit down for breakfast, but you can also grab-and-go if you’re short on time.
After breakfast, make your way to Centro Histórico, the cultural heart of Mexico City. Start at the Zócalo, the giant central square surrounded by some of the city’s most important landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Templo Mayor ruins, and the National Palace (which has amazing murals by Diego Rivera).
From there, walk over to the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes—one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. The white marble exterior and colorful domed roof are gorgeous, and the inside is just as impressive. If you want a postcard-perfect view of Bellas Artes, here’s a tip: cross the street to Sears, take the elevator to the top floor, and get in line at the little coffee shop up there. Trust me, it’s so worth it if you have a little patience—the view is incredible.
For lunch, treat yourself to something special. Head to Pujol, one of Mexico City’s most famous Michelin-starred restaurants. The food is next-level, and the tasting menu is a full experience in itself. Just make sure you book your reservation well in advance, as it fills up fast. If you’re a foodie, this is one of those must-do things in CDMX.
If you prefer a more casual lunch, here are few places I would like to recommend : Masala y Maíz, Azul Historico, Taquería Orinoco for tacos (no chicken or veg options available so keep that in mind)
Later in the evening, get ready for some fun with a Lucha Libre match at Arena México. It’s loud, colorful, and wildly entertaining. You can go on your own or book a guided tour like I did—which made everything super easy with drinks and even included a mask for the full experience. It’s such a fun way to end the day and dive into a part of Mexican pop culture you might not expect! Highly recommended!



Book Lucha Libre Experience in Mexico City
Day 3: Coyoacán, Frida Kahlo Museum & Xochimilco Party Boats
Start your morning with a guided bike tour through Coyoacán, one of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods in Mexico City. Located about 30 minutes from the city center, Coyoacán feels like a peaceful escape with its cobblestone streets, beautiful plazas, and colonial charm. As you bike through its cobblestone streets and charming plazas, you’ll pass colonial buildings, local markets, and quiet corners that feel straight out of a storybook. It’s such a peaceful and pretty part of the city!
After the ride, head to the Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as Casa Azul. If you’re into art or even just curious about Frida’s life, this place is a must. The house itself is super iconic—bright blue walls, lush gardens, and a creative vibe everywhere you look. Inside, you’ll find her paintings, personal belongings, photos, and touching displays that show what life was like with her husband, Diego Rivera.
Pro tip: Tickets sell out fast, so definitely book online in advance to lock in your spot!
After your museum visit, grab lunch at the vibrant Coyoacán Market. It’s a local favorite and a great place to try authentic street food. Don’t miss the tostadas, tamales, and churros—all made fresh and packed with flavors.
In the afternoon, head over to Xochimilco, one of the most fun and unique experiences you can have in Mexico City. It’s famous for its bright and colorful Trajinera boats that cruise through ancient canals, basically CDMX’s version of a floating fiesta! We took an Uber from Coyoacán straight to the canal, which was super easy and convenient.
Once you arrive, you can either rent a private boat and bring your own drinks and snacks, or if you’re in the mood for something more lively – join a group party tour with a local company. That’s what I did, and it was absolutely amazing! The tour included drinks on board, live music, and even a stop at a private island for a freshly cooked meal. It’s the perfect way to meet fellow travelers and enjoy the lively, joyful energy that Xochimilco is all about. Highly recommend it!



Book All Inclusive Boat Tour in Xochimilco
Day 4: Teotihuacan Hot Air Balloon Ride
Start your final day with this amazing experience: a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan, one of Mexico’s most awe-inspiring archaeological sites. If your tour includes hotel pickup, expect to be picked up between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. Otherwise, you can take an Uber to the designated meeting point.
Once you arrive at the launch site, you’ll be guided to your balloon just in time for takeoff. As the balloon slowly rises into the sky, you’ll witness the sunrise over the Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon – a magical moment you’ll never forget.
After landing, you’ll enjoy a post-flight celebration, complete with a glass of champagne to toast the experience. Then it’s time for breakfast—but not just any breakfast. You’ll dine at a restaurant inside a natural cave, one of the most unique and memorable culinary experiences in the region.
The spot, often called La Gruta, is located just minutes from the pyramids and offers a mystical, almost otherworldly ambience paired with traditional Mexican dishes. Dining in a volcanic cave feels like stepping back in time—and let’s be honest, how often do you get to have a meal in a cave?
Next, you will visit a local obsidian and maguey workshop, where expert guides demonstrate the ancient tools, techniques, and cultural significance of these materials in Mesoamerican civilizations. This part is super interesting – you’ll learn about the traditions from the Teotihuacan people. Plus, you get to sample local drinks like tequila, pulque, and a few types of mezcal. One drink I’ll never forget was the mezcal with a worm—definitely bold, but worth trying at least once!
Then it’s time to explore Teotihuacan on foot. Walk along the Avenue of the Dead, visit temples and plazas, and take in the size and beauty of this ancient city. Seeing it from above and then walking through it really gives you the full experience.
Most tours finish up around 2:00 PM, and you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or a central location in the city. If you’ve still got some time before your flight, grab a late lunch at a local taco shop (if you haven’t already). Just a heads-up: most traditional taquerías serve pork or beef, so if you’re vegetarian, vegan, or only eat chicken, it’s good to check ahead to find something that works for you.
I recommend booking an evening or late-night flight so you don’t feel rushed. After a morning of flying over pyramids, breakfast in a cave, and exploring ancient ruins, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your 4 Days in Mexico City.



Book Day trip Teotihuacan Hot Air Balloon Ride with Cave Breakfast + Pick up & Drop
Things to know before you visit Mexico City
✈️ Mexico City sits over 7,300 feet (2,200 meters) above sea level. If you’re flying in from a lower elevation, you might feel a bit short of breath or tired at first. Take it slow on Day 1, drink plenty of water, and avoid intense activities right away.
🚘 Getting around is easy with Uber or other rideshare apps. It’s usually safer and cheaper than traditional taxis—and perfect for getting to and from places like Xochimilco, Teotihuacan, or the airport.
💰 The official currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most restaurants, hotels, and shops, but having some cash on hand is useful—especially for street food stalls, markets, or small local cafes. Always use If you’re using a credit card, try to use one with no foreign transaction fees to avoid extra charges while traveling.
🌐 Spanish is the official language in Mexico. While many people in tourist areas speak basic English, it’s helpful to know a few Spanish phrases like Hola – Hello; Gracias – Thank you; Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?; Dónde está el baño? – Where is the bathroom? If you want to get more comfortable with the language before your trip, try using the Duolingo app – it’s free and great for picking up the basics. Also, make sure to download the Google Translate app. It’s a lifesaver for translating signs, menus, or even having quick conversations when needed.
💦 It’s better to drink bottled water in Mexico. You can buy a big jar of water from a nearby grocery store and use it to refill your reusable water bottle. Most restaurants use filtered water for ice and drinks, but if you’re not sure, just ask. It’s always better to be safe!
🍸If you’re planning to eat at a popular restaurant or grab a drink at a well-known cocktail bar, I highly recommend making a reservation in advance.
🌮 Trying tacos, tamales, and churros from local stands is a must, but make sure the stall is busy and looks clean. Locals know the good spots, so if there’s a line, it’s usually a good sign!
FAQs
Is 4 Days in Mexico City enough?
Yes, 4 days in Mexico City is a great amount of time for first-time visitors! While you won’t be able to see everything (this city is massive!), four days is enough to visit the top sights like the historic center, Frida Kahlo Museum, Xochimilco, and even do a fun day trip to Teotihuacan.
How much cash do I need for 4 Days in Mexico City ?
For 4 days in Mexico City, you don’t need a lot of cash, but it’s good to have some on hand. Most restaurants, museums, and shops accept credit cards, but small local shops, markets, and street food vendors usually prefer cash.
A safe estimate would be around 3000 Mexican Pesos (around $150 USD) in cash for things like food, tips, and small purchases. If you’re planning to do more street food or market shopping, you might want a bit more. Tip: Use a bank ATM in Mexico City to take out pesos – you’ll usually get a better exchange rate than at currency exchange booths. Also, try to use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid extra charges when paying by card.
Where to stay in Mexico City for the first time?
I recommend Roma Norte and La Condesa, two of the best neighborhoods to stay in, based on my research and personal stay. We stayed in a cozy bed and breakfast in Condesa and loved it.
Can you drink the tap water in Mexico City?
It’s best not to drink tap water in Mexico City. You can buy a big bottle of drinking water from a nearby grocery store and use it to refill your water bottle each day. If you want to be extra safe, you can also bring a portable water filter with you and use that for drinking water. Most newer restaurants use filtered water, so their drinks and ice are usually safe. But just to be sure, it’s always a good idea to ask before drinking tap water or anything with ice.
Is it safe to visit Mexico City?
Yes, Mexico City is generally safe to visit, especially if you stick to popular neighborhoods like Condesa, Roma, Polanco, and Coyoacán. These areas are known for being tourist-friendly, walkable, and full of restaurants, shops, and things to do. Like any big city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone late at night, keep your belongings close, and use Uber or trusted transport instead of hailing taxis off the street.
What are the best day trips from Mexico City?
- Teotihuacan – The most famous day trip! You can walk (or fly over) the ancient pyramids and learn about one of Mexico’s most important archaeological sites.
- Puebla & Cholula – Just 2 hours away, these colorful colonial towns are known for their churches, volcano views, and amazing food—especially mole!
- Tolantongo Hot Springs – A longer trip (about 4 hours), but totally worth it if you love natural hot springs, caves, and turquoise thermal pools. If you have time I would highly recommend this!
Final Thoughts
There you have it! Now you’ve got everything you need to plan your next trip to this charming city in Mexico. If it’s your first time visiting Mexico, I highly recommend Mexico City – it’s full of color, culture, and amazing experiences.
With this 4 day Mexico City itinerary, you’ll get a great taste of what makes CDMX so special – whether it’s roaming colorful streets, exploring ancient ruins, or enjoying a night of Lucha Libre. Remember to take your time, stay curious, and soak in the city’s vibe.
Hope this blog helps you plan your next visit to the colorful city of Mexico. Let me know in the comments if have any questions. Happy to answer! or if you find my blog useful. Happy to know!
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