Mexico City’s Aztec Origins: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Mexico City , Mexico

Mexico City’s Aztec Origins: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Mexico City might have been built directly over the ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlan, but traces of this great civilisation can still be found if you know where to look.

On this self-guided audio tour, I’ll reveal the ways in which the buried city still impacts the modern one.

Starting in front of the Monument to the Mexican National Identity, you’ll head into the city center where you can visit iconic sites like the ruins of the main temple. I’ll tell you about the most recent Aztec archaeological discoveries, like the macabre skull rack.

As you stroll, you’ll gain a better understanding of Mexico City’s transformation. I’ll tell you about everything from the astonishing Aztec city of Tenochtitlan, to the Spanish Conquest, and the modern capital it is today. Along the way, you’ll see impressive archeological findings, some still in the process of being fully unearthed. And even better: you don’t need to pay entrance tickets or any fees, as most of these relics are in the open.

Available options

Mexico City’s Aztec Origins: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

This self-guided audio tour starts in front of the Monument to the Mexican National Identity. On this walking tour, I’ll not only guide you in the right direction. I’ll also reveal the ways in which the buried city still impacts the modern one.

Stop 2 Pass by

Walk south Mexico City's Zocalo to find the most visited archaeological site in Mexico: a tiny round temple dedicated to Ehecatl, the god of wind, located inside a metro station.

Stop 3 Pass by

You’ll head into the city center where you can visit iconic sites like the ruins of Tenochtitlan’s Templo Mayor (the main temple). I’ll tell you about the most recent Aztec archaeological discoveries like the Tzompantli (the macabre skull rack) located behind Mexico City’s Metropolitan Cathedral.

Stop 4 Pass by

We'll explore Templo Mayor ruins from outside, where I'll tell you the story of its fortuitous discovery. Entry to the Museum is not included in this tour.

Stop 5 Pass by

Enter Centro Cultural España and discover the remains of what used to be an exclusive Aztec school for future priests and governors.

Stop 6 Pass by

Be surprised by the ancient remains in unexpected places like the ball game court, the Tzacualli Ehécatl (the temple of Ehécatl) and the beautiful Cabeza de Serpiente Mexica (serpent head) at Museo de la Ciudad (the city museum)

Stop 7 Pass by

As you stroll through Zócalo, the city’s beautiful main square, and iconic 5 de Mayo street, you’ll gain a better understanding of Mexico City’s transformation. I’ll tell you about everything from the astonishing Aztec city of Tenochtitlan, to the Spanish Conquest, and the modern capital it is today.

Stop 8 Pass by

Walk around the Historic Center of Mexico City, as I point out to you buildings that hide important archaeological Aztec sites, like the macabre Huey Tzompantli on Guatemala Street. Many of these are not open to the public yet.

Stop outside this museum to appreciate how the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan emerges discreetly on the front of colonial buildings. Admission to the Museum is not included in this tour.

Stop 10 Pass by

Stop 11 Pass by

By the end of this 1.5-2 hour tour, you’ll have a sense of how the ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlan is still alive, emerging from the underground, and transforming the history of Mexico with every new discovery.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Food and drink

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

EN ES

Written guide

EN ES

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This self-guided audio tour starts in front of the Monument to the Mexican National Identity. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Mexico City

Mexico City, the vibrant capital of Mexico, is a sprawling metropolis where ancient Aztec ruins coexist with modern skyscrapers. This cultural and historical hub offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from world-class museums and colonial architecture to bustling markets and delicious cuisine. The city's high-altitude location and diverse neighborhoods make it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Zócalo

The main square of Mexico City, surrounded by historic buildings including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. It's the heart of the city and a must-visit for its cultural and historical significance.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (some attractions have entry fees)

Chapultepec Park

One of the largest urban parks in the world, featuring a lake, museums, and the famous Chapultepec Castle. It's a great place for outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

Nature Half day to full day Free (some attractions have entry fees)

Palacio de Bellas Artes

An iconic cultural landmark featuring stunning murals by famous Mexican artists like Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros. The building itself is a masterpiece of art nouveau and neoclassical architecture.

Architecture 1-2 hours MXN 75 (USD 3.75) for the museum

Teotihuacan

An ancient Mesoamerican city with the famous Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fascinating glimpse into pre-Aztec civilizations.

Historical Half day to full day MXN 80 (USD 4) for the site, plus guide fees if applicable

Frida Kahlo Museum

The former home of Frida Kahlo, known as the Blue House, now a museum dedicated to her life and work. It offers a deep dive into the life of one of Mexico's most famous artists.

Museum 1-2 hours MXN 250 (USD 12.50) for foreigners

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tacos al Pastor

Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple and onions.

Street food Contains meat, can be spicy

Mole

A rich, complex sauce made with chocolate, chili peppers, and spices, typically served with chicken or turkey.

Main course Contains chocolate, can be spicy

Chiles en Nogada

Poblano chili peppers stuffed with picadillo (a mixture of meat, fruits, and spices) and topped with walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds, representing the colors of the Mexican flag.

Main course Contains meat, nuts, and dairy

Tlayudas

A large, crispy tortilla topped with beans, cheese, meat, and salsa, often referred to as the 'Mexican pizza'.

Street food Contains cheese and meat, can be spicy

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Sierra de Guadalupe Climbing Nevado de Toluca Paragliding in Valle de Bravo Visiting Chapultepec Park Relaxing in Jardín Borda Enjoying a spa day in Polanco Exploring the Historic Center Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city hosts numerous festivals and events during this period.

15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F) 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Mexico City is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs

Getting there

By air

Mexico City International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By train

Buenavista Station, Toluca Airport Station

By bus

Terminal de Autobuses de Paso de la Reforma, Terminal de Autobuses del Norte

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is the most efficient way to get around the city, with 12 lines covering most neighborhoods. It can get crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center Roma Condesa Coyoacán Polanco

Day trips

Puebla

130 km (81 miles) • Full day

A colonial city known for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Puebla is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a rich history and unique charm.

Texcoco

50 km (31 miles) • Half day to full day

A town near Mexico City known for its beautiful gardens and historical sites. Texcoco is home to the ancient Aztec city of Texcoco and the beautiful Jardín Botánico de Texcoco.

Xochimilco

20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A unique neighborhood in Mexico City known for its canals and traditional trajinera boats. Xochimilco is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a unique and colorful experience.

Festivals

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) • November 1-2 Festival Internacional de Cine de Morelia (Morelia International Film Festival) • October Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) • September

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Use the metro system to get around the city quickly and affordably
Try street food from busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness and safety
Visit museums and attractions on weekdays to avoid crowds and long lines
Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot to discover hidden gems and local culture