Ancient and Modern Mexican

Historical sites sit side-by-side modern marvels in this constantly changing megalopolis. The center boasts diverse architectural styles from Aztec to baroque, while the sprawling wooded Bosque de Chapultepec is home to several museums. City retreats alternate with hip neighborhoods housing some of the country’s leading contemporary art galleries. Once the Aztec city’s breadbasket, Xochimilco is filled with canals that make up the Floating Gardens at weekends, local families hire trajinera boats and meander through the waterways while enjoying a picnic. There are always plenty of vendors in small canoes selling food, drinks and souvenirs. Serenading musicians also float by follow the signs to Los Embarcaderos (piers) in Madero.

The Metropolitan Cathedral in the Centro Histórico oozes breathtaking, Hispanic, baroque flamboyance, while the Dolores Olmedo Patino Museum boasts 127 paintings by Spanish-Mexican muralist Diego Rivera and 25 works by Frida Kahlo, as well as collections of pre-Colombian, colonial-era folk art and artefacts.

Mexican flavors abound at restaurants like Café de Tacuba and Hostería Santo Domingo. Taco and tortilla stands are everywhere and generally excellent. Cantinas, like La Nueva Opera Bar, provide a traditional Mexican dining experience. Polanco is home to some of the finest alta cocina mexicana and nueva mexicana establishments.

The Centro Histórico offers everything from antique jewelery in the Nacional Monte de Piedad (National Pawn Shop) to sweets in Dulcería de Celaya, while bargain hunters flock to the historic flea market La Lagunilla. Pick up typical Mexican souvenirs in Almeda and contemporary art in the Zona Rosa. High-end fashion and malls are found in upscale Polanco while Condesa’s relaxed vibe makes it a popular choice for art galleries.