2-Day Mexico City Itinerary: Culture & Tacos

A Perfect 2-Day Itinerary in Mexico City: History, Culture, and a Self-Guided Taco Tour

Mexico City is a vibrant metropolis full of rich history, stunning architecture, delicious food, and energetic street life. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to soak in the city’s dynamic atmosphere, this two-day itinerary covers the best of what the city has to offer.

Where to Stay in Mexico City Mexico City is a vast metropolis with plenty of accommodation options to suit different budgets and travel styles. For first-time visitors, neighborhoods like Centro Histórico, Roma, and La Condesa are great choices. Centro Histórico places you right in the heart of the city’s historical landmarks, while Roma and La Condesa offer a more laid-back atmosphere with tree-lined streets, boutique hotels, and plenty of cafes and restaurants. If you’re after luxury, Polanco is the city’s upscale district with high-end hotels and fine dining options. Personally I thought La Condesa was the best place to stay!

ZAMORA By Mr W: Lovely apartment complex, very affordable and great location

A8 Cuarto Condesa Amsterdam: Beautiful large apartment in the centre of La Condesa, very affordable

Day 1: Exploring the Historic and Cultural Landmarks of Mexico City

1. Plaza de la Constitución (Zócalo) and Catedral Metropolitana

Start your day at the heart of Mexico City—the Zócalo. One of the largest plazas in the world, it is always buzzing with activity, from cultural performances to political gatherings. The surrounding architecture is breathtaking, with the grand Catedral Metropolitana de la Ciudad de México being the crown jewel. This cathedral, built over two centuries, blends Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles and is home to stunning altars and a massive pipe organ.

🌟 Tip: Give yourself time to wander through the markets here for unique souvenirs, street performances, and delicious local snacks.

2. Templo Mayor Museum

Just steps from the Zócalo, you’ll find the remains of the Templo Mayor, an ancient Aztec temple discovered beneath the city. Even if you don’t enter the museum, you can view much of the ruins from above. The intricate stone carvings and layers of history reveal the grandeur of the Aztec civilization.

3. Plaza Garibaldi

This square is famous for its mariachi bands, though it can be hit or miss in terms of activity. While we didn’t find many musicians performing, we did enjoy the walkway lined with statues of famous mariachi musicians.

🌟 Tip: If you’re eager for live mariachi music, visit in the evening when the bands are more active.

4. Pastelería Ideal – A Sweet Stop

Take a well-deserved break at Pastelería Ideal, a legendary bakery known for its vast selection of Mexican pastries. Even if you don’t buy anything, the sight of endless shelves of conchas, orejas, and cakes is worth the visit. Enjoy your treat with a coffee at the café next door before continuing your adventure.

5. Palacio de Bellas Artes

A short walk from the Zócalo, this grand building is a must-see for art lovers. The Palacio de Bellas Artes houses incredible murals by Diego Rivera and other famous Mexican artists, alongside rotating exhibitions and performances.

6. Stroll Through Alameda Central

Right next to the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Alameda Central is a lush, historic park that offers a great place to relax and people-watch. The park is always lively with musicians, vendors, and locals enjoying their day.

7. Monumento a la Revolución & National Museum of the Revolution

One of the most striking landmarks in Mexico City, this towering monument is actually the largest free-standing arch in the world. Take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city. Inside, the National Museum of the Revolution offers a fascinating look into Mexico’s revolutionary history.

🌟 Tip: If you have extra time, consider visiting Museo Nacional de Historia Castillo de Chapultepec—just be sure to check Google Maps for opening hours, as it was closed during our Easter visit.

Evening: Dinner and Drinks

After freshening up at your hotel, head to a local restaurant to cap off your day with traditional Mexican cuisine. Whether you opt for mole, tamales, or chiles en nogada, you’re in for a treat!

Day 2: A Self-Guided Taco Tour in La Condesa

One of the best things about Mexico City is the food, and tacos are the undisputed stars of the culinary scene. While you can book a taco tour, we decided to do our own self-guided adventure. Here’s a list of our favorite taco stops in La Condesa, a trendy neighborhood known for its fantastic eateries.

Self-Guided Taco Tour Stops:

1. Tizne Tacomotora

Kick off your tour with smoky, globally inspired tacos. Their Pork Belly taco on a blue corn tortilla is a must-try, featuring pickled radish, serrano chili, and confit garlic puree.

2. Cariñito Tacos

This Michelin-recognized spot specializes in Southeast Asian-style tacos. The Cantonese taco—confit pork belly, hoisin, sriracha, and pickled cucumber—is an unexpected yet delicious twist on traditional tacos.

3. Taquería Orinoco

A local favorite for Northern-style tacos, Orinoco offers trompo (al pastor), res (beef), and chicharrón (fried pork skin) tacos, best enjoyed with their house salsas.

4. El Pescadito

A must-visit for seafood lovers. Their smoked marlin and shrimp tacos are highlights, and their toppings bar allows you to customize your taco just how you like it.

5. Tacos Don Juan

Right across from El Pescadito, this family-run eatery specializes in quesabirria tacos, which are cheesy, crispy, and filled with slow-stewed beef.

6. El Tizoncito

Claiming to be the birthplace of tacos al pastor, this restaurant serves perfectly marinated pork tacos topped with pineapple, onion, and cilantro.

7. Taquería El Califa

A beef-lover’s paradise. Their bistec and costilla tacos are simple yet packed with flavor, made with high-quality grilled meats.

8. Taquería El Greco

This Lebanese-Mexican fusion spot serves Doneraky tacos on pita bread. It’s a delicious crossover between shawarma and traditional Mexican tacos.

9. Tacos Hola El Güero

For a vegetarian-friendly option, this spot specializes in guisado (stewed) tacos, including nopales (cactus) and creamy poblano peppers.

Final Stop: Sweet Ending at Churrería El Moro

Wrap up your taco tour with crispy, sugary churros and a hot chocolate at the famous Churrería El Moro.

🌟 Tip: If you need to walk off your food coma, take a leisurely stroll through Parque México, one of the most beautiful parks in the city.

Final Thoughts

Mexico City is a feast for the senses—stunning architecture, deep-rooted history, lively plazas, and of course, some of the best tacos in the world. This two-day itinerary gives you a balance of culture and cuisine, leaving you with unforgettable memories (and a very full stomach). Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, there’s always something new to discover in this incredible city.