Mexico CityCapital
Mexico · Country profile
Mexico City is a sprawling, vibrant capital built on a drained lakebed high in the volcano-ringed central plateau, where Aztec ruins, colonial palaces and avant-garde art stand shoulder to shoulder. Its historic centre, the palaces of Coyoacán and the colourful streets of Roma and Condesa offer everything from street tacos and floating gardens to some of the world’s best contemporary museums. It’s a giant of history, food and art that overflows with energy, warmth and a rich, living culture. Massive, loud and endlessly rewarding, Mexico City is one of the great urban experiences of the Americas.
About Mexico City
Mexico City is the capital of Mexico. The city's documented population is around 9,209,944 people. For visitors from abroad, the local currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN) and Spanish is spoken; the dialling code is +52. It is served by 1 airport in our guide: Mexico City International Airport.
Built on Ruins, Fueled by Street Food
Mexico City is a massive, vibrant capital set high on a central plateau, where Aztec ruins, colonial palaces and contemporary art coexist in the same streets. The historic centre, the leafy neighbourhoods of Roma and Condesa and the outskirts offer an enormous range of museums, markets and food. It is a city of great energy and warmth, but also one of scale — it sprawls and the traffic is real, so planning by district helps. The elevation and the climate are gentler than many expect, and the pill culture around food, art and lively plazas is the real draw.
Altitude Changes Your Plans Before Anything Else
The famous attractions and the floating gardens of Xochimilco draw crowds, so book the top museums and any boat rides ahead. The elevation (around 2,200 metres) can surprise — take it easy the first day and hydrate. The subway is cheap and extensive but can be hot and crowded at rush hour; ride apps are a sensible alternative over longer hauls. The weather is mild year-round, with a rainy season in summer that brings afternoon showers. Carry cash especially for markets and street food, though cards are widely accepted. Relax about dress — the city is easygoing and warm.
Monday Closures and Sunday Pedestrian Festivals
The subway is one of the cheapest in the world but fills up at rush hour; the ride-app network is reliable for getting around by car. The historic centre, the Roma and Condesa districts and Coyoacán each offer a different pace — plan by area rather than a single route. The food is world-class and cheap, from street tacos to celebrated restaurants, but tap water is not for drinking — stick to bottled. Sunday brings the famous closing of Reforma to cars and a lively street scene. Museums, including the anthropology museum, close on Mondays. Learn a few Spanish phrases — they are much appreciated.
Report an error or suggest an update
- Country
- Mexico
- Population
- 9,209,944
- Coordinates
- 19.4363, -99.0721
- Capital
- Mexico City
- Region
- North America
- Currency
- Mexican Peso (MXN)
- Languages
- Spanish
- Calling code
- +52
- Country code
- MX
Entry requirements for Mexico
Visa status for travellers from common origins visiting Mexico for tourism.
Getting to Mexico City
Airports we list for Mexico City:
Other airports in the area:
Cities in Mexico
Other cities we cover in Mexico:
Frequently asked questions
Is Mexico City the capital of Mexico?
Yes — Mexico City is the capital of Mexico.
What currency do I need in Mexico City?
The local currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Languages spoken in Mexico include Spanish.
What is the dialling code for Mexico?
The international dialling code for Mexico is +52.
Which airport should I fly into for Mexico City?
Mexico City International Airport (MEX) is the airport we list for Mexico City.
How far is Mexico City from the nearest airport?
Mexico City is about 459 km from Guadalajara International Airport.
Do I need a visa to visit Mexico?
It depends on your passport. Among the origins we track, travellers from Australia, Canada, France, Germany and Italy currently enter Mexico visa-free for tourism. Use the entry requirements tool to check your own nationality and purpose of travel.
Flying out of Mexico City? Check the entry requirements for your destination in our entry requirements tool before you fly.