Mexico City , Mexico

Colonia Roma Musical Walking Tour

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About this experience

Explore the iconic Colonia Roma neighborhood of Mexico City on a guided walking tour featuring wireless headphones and a curated soundtrack of popular music. Led by visual artist Gabriel Acevedo Velarde —who holds a master’s degree in Fine Art— you’ll uncover surprising connections between architecture, history, and vernacular music. Starting in the historic town of La Romita, this immersive experience traces the evolution of Mexican identities, from a 16th-century chapel to the rise of modern urbanization. Along the way, discover cultural landmarks and stories, including the origins of the tortilla and the African roots of mariachi music.

- Connect Mexican popular music with the nation's architecture and history
- Visit historical sites, like the iconic La Romita chapel
- Explore themes of identity, music, and Latin American idiosyncracy

Available options

Recorrido en español

ColoniaRoma musical en español

Colonia Roma Musical Walking Tour

What's included

Wireless headphones

Detailed itinerary

The tour explores Mexican cultural and historical identities, highlighting key moments in its development as reflected in 11 locations throughout Colonia Roma. The whole walk is exclusively in this fabulous neighborhood --with various stops being "not touristic" but fascinating from the points of view of architecture and/or cultural history.

Stop 2

Amazingly, this chapel is from the 16th century. The tiny town that formed around it maintained its identity until the 20th century. Perfect spot to talk about the origin of Virgin of Guadalupe.

An amusing museum of everyday life objects from Mexican modern times.

Though the Lamm family never actually lived here, the house reflects a confidant attitude towards space, even if Mexico City was having an acute need for housing at the time of its construction.

Stop 5

We'll stop at the Alvaro Obregón avenue not only because it's the most iconic road in the neighborhood, but also to talk about the connection between corridos (the narrative musical genre) and crime press during the Mexican Revolution.

Here we'll talk the 1933 debate between conservative and modernist architects and what that tells us about aspirational, trascendental wishes and the pressing need for housing in a city that was doubling its inhabitants every decade.

The Colonia Roma was conceived as exclusively residential. Both planners and owners quickly realized this made no sense. This plaza reflects the shift to a more autonomous neighborhood regarding basic services.

Stop 8

Originally built to be a hotel, the Witches' House is an apartments building that works as an example of eclectic architecture and the changing conception of the neighborhood, from exclusively residential to a services area for the rest of the city.

We'll stop by Tortillería Premier, a typical tortillas store, to talk about a historical event: the invention of tortillas. Strange as it sounds, few Mexicans know about the link between tortillas' original creation and the first Zapotec state, five centuries BC.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet you in front of the chapel's main entrance, I'll be wearing a green hat.

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