Express Historic Center the must in two hours

Mexico City , Mexico

Express Historic Center the must in two hours

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

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About this experience

Discover the soul of Mexico City in a few hours, with those who really know it.
This express tour will take you through the most iconic sites of the Historic Center, while listening to fascinating stories that bring life to every corner.

We start in front of the Metropolitan Cathedral, a colonial icon full of surprising details. From there we explore the ruins of the Templo Mayor and the vibrant Plaza del Zócalo, political and spiritual center of the country.

We continue along the pedestrian Madero Street to the elegant Casa de los Azulejos, the monumental Postal Palace and the majestic Palacio de Bellas Artes.

All in a close and well-kept environment, ideal for first-time visitors who want to understand the past and present of Mexico in no time, without missing the essentials.

An ideal route to start falling in love with this immense, colorful and history-filled city.

Available options

Express Historic Center the must in two hours

What's included

Assistance before and during the tour via WhatsApp.

Local guide expert in history and culture.

Narration based on anecdotes, legends and curious facts.

2-hour guided walking tour.

Clear and entertaining explanations, without technicalities.

Visit to the outside of the Metropolitan Cathedral.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

In front of you will open the great Constitution Square, one of the largest public spaces in the world. Here, where the Mexica drums once resounded, today the most iconic flag of the country flies. Close your eyes and listen to the echo of a city that was born among temples and pyramids. We will imagine the ancestral ceremonies and military parades that took place on the site.

Stop 2

In front of this majestic temple built over two centuries, you will feel the textures of the volcanic stone that support it. You will hear a fragment of the monumental organ as we tell you how this Cathedral is the living fusion of cultures, styles and beliefs.

Stop 3

On the side, a seemingly discreet space hides one of Mexico's most powerful treasures: the Templo Mayor. You will discover how an accidental discovery revealed the goddess Coyolxauhqui. We'll walk up from another city.

We will look into a window that holds anecdotes of daily life and an important event that continues to have a main place in history.

Stop 5 Pass by

You will walk through ancient banquets where military parades and national celebrations have been held. When you arrive at the National Museum of Art, you will see a majestic architecture that will tell you about the Porfiriato and the beginning of modern Mexico. We will tell you about painters and the role of art in national identity.

Here you will receive the famous “Caballito” by Carlos IV, a bronze masterpiece that has withstood the passage of centuries and controversy. With fans and aromas from the Viceroyal era, we will recreate the life of the Creole elite who walked through this square more than 200 years ago.

You'll peek into one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. Marble, wrought iron and golden details will surround you as we imagine the love messages, travel postcards and letters sent more than a century ago.

Stop 8

You will see the blue and white facade of this legendary building, covered with tiles, shine. Listening to the stories of the families who lived in it, you will feel that time stands still. We'll play a tile show and learn where this piece of art comes from.

Stop 9 Pass by

In front of the Palace of Fine Arts, we will admire its art nouveau and art deco architecture. We will tell you why it is sinking and why it is one of the most beautiful theaters in the world. We will finish our tour under the trees of Alameda Central, the first park in America. We will give you recommendations to continue exploring the city.

What's not included

Transfer to the meeting point at the visitor's expense

Tips for the guide (optional but appreciated).

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

the guide (your Mexican aunt for a day or uncle) will be waiting for you in front of the BBVA of Calle de Palma to begin this trip together in the heart of Mexico City. From there, we will walk to our first stop. You'll recognize her from a BLUE umbrella.

Important notes

When you arrive to identify the guides in uniform, the reservation check must be presented.

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