Mexico City is a wonderful city to explore and exceeded my expectations! It’s a very green and clean city, with a (dare I say…) perfect climate. If you only have one day in Mexico City, you won’t be able to see everything (heck, you wouldn’t even be able to see it all in a month!), but you can surely hit the highlights! While I spent 3 days in Mexico City in November 2025 for Day of the Dead festivities, this itinerary combines the best of the best to make the most of your one day in Mexico City!
Read More: 6 Things to Do in Mexico City for Day of the Dead
Morning Walk through Polanco
Start your one day in Mexico City bright and early with a morning stroll through the picturesque neighborhood of Polanco! Polanco is widely known as one of the nicest neighborhoods in Mexico City, and a morning stroll is the best way to experience it. Walk down Av. Emilio Castelar or Luis G. Urbina, the two streets that line Parque Lincoln, one of my favorite places in the city! I absolutely loved the big, mature trees and views of the city skyscrapers in the distance. There are reflection pools and a handful of art sculptures to admire. And even though the park is lined by two big streets, the noise was minimal and it was a really peaceful place for a stroll or sit. It’s a perfect way to start your one day in Mexico City!
Coffee & Breakfast at Cafebrería
Just steps away from Parque Lincoln is Cafebrería, an adorable cafe and bookshop. Think Barnes & Noble, but much cuter and cozier. No reservations are needed to visit and it’s the perfect place for either a full sit-down breakfast, or just grabbing a cup of coffee from the cafe. Stroll through the aisles of floor-to-ceiling book shelves or settle in to one of their cozy seats for some rest. Get there shortly after opening to avoid the crowds (and for the best photo-ops!).
Stroll through Chapultepec Park
After you’re all fueled up, time for another peaceful morning stroll. This time through the second largest city park in Latin America: Chapultepec Park! Our goal for the morning was to walk through the park and beeline it directly to Chapultepec Castle (more on that below), but the park itself had so much to explore and discover that we ended up wandering for about an hour! Venture down different paths to find beautiful lakes, gardens, stages, and so much more. We loved just strolling down whichever path caught our eye. You’ll also find the iconic photo op with the giant CDMX letters here. Stop for a selfie (or two!)
Chapultepec Castle
Located on the top of Chapultepec Hill in Chapultepec Park is Chapultepec Castle (are you noticing a naming theme here?). For only about ~$5 US, you can tour the castle and the beautiful gardens. On the walk up to the castle, you’ll get spectacular views of Mexico City and beyond. The castle used to serve as a residence for Mexico’s royalty and presidents, and was also the site of several historical battles. Now, the castle is home to the National Museum of History, which you can tour with your entrance ticket. My favorite part though was the outdoor gardens, where you could sit in the shade and enjoy skyline views of the city.
Tacos at Maizajo
After a busy morning, it’s time to treat yourself to some Michelin-recognized tacos! Maizajo is a taqueria in the Condesa neighborhood, just a few blocks outside of Chapultepec Park. Plan to arrive about 20 minutes prior to opening to get in line (if there is no line, start one!). Only the first few people in line will get the privilege of getting a spot at the counter to get to watch their food being prepared in the open kitchen. You’ll watch them hand press tortillas, cut and grill the meats, and prepare fresh ingredients right before your eyes. It’s such a great experience!
Museo Nacional de Antropología
Next up is the most visited museum in Mexico (and for a good reason!): the National Museum of Anthropology. Take a stroll back through Chapultepec Park to get to the museum here, right on the North side of the park. This museum is large and costs only ~$5 USD to enter. You could easily spend an entire day here, but I’d recommend instead picking 3-4 rooms that interest you the most and learning about them in depth. Each room dives deep into the history of different areas of Mexico. My favorite was the Mayan room, which is straight back when you enter the museum courtyard. One of the stars of the museum though is the original Aztec Sun Stone. It’s huge and incredible to see first-hand!
Paseo de la Reforma & The Angel of Independence
Next up is a stroll down the grandest street in Mexico City: Paseo de la Reforma. This street connects Chapultepec Park with the historic center. I’d recommend starting your walk here, and walking up towards the Zócalo. You’ll pass by several statues, fountains, and monuments (such as Dianna the Huntress and Glorieta del Ahuehuete), but the most iconic is The Angel of Independence. Topped with the Goddess of Victory, this statue represents Mexico’s independence, freedom, and national pride.
Zócalo & Constitution Plaza
At the other end of the Paseo de la Reforma, you’ll find the Zócalo (the nickname for Constitution Plaza and the Historical Center of Mexico City). Turn off of the Paseo de la Reforma and walk through the old town making your way towards Constitution Plaza. This is the heartbeat of the city and there is tons to explore. Stop into shops, stroll down cobblestone streets, and admire the incredible architecture. A few highlights along the walk include the Palacio de Bellas Artes, and the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral. Grab an al fresco dinner at one of the many restaurants, or a sweet treat at Pastelería Ideal (an incredible bakery that you self-serve cafeteria style).
Lucha Libre
If you’re looking for a way to end the night where your cheeks will hurt from laughing so much, Lucha Libre is your answer! Just a short walk from Zócalo is Arena Coliseo, a historic venue where you can watch the magic of Mexican wrestling live. This was hysterical and a total highlight of our trip. Get your tickets in advance online (for only a few dollars!), as the venue is small and was sold out! Even if you’re not into wrestling, this is an absolute must-do. The wrestlers and matches are so fun and the crowd gets really into it! Their body slams, kicks, and hits will have you screaming “Ooooooh!” a hundred times over, but it never gets old! While the outcomes of the matches are scripted, the athleticism is real and incredible to witness in person!
Churros at El Moro
There is no better end to your one day in Mexico City than with churros! El Moro Churreria has a few locations throughout CDMX, but the original one is located here, just a short walk from Zócalo and the Arena Coliseo. They are open 24/7, but expect a long line out the door if you’re visiting at peak times! The line moves steadily though, and the crisp, warm churros are sooo worth the wait. They have two choices of churros: regular sugar and cinnamon sugar. My advice is to get a few of both! And don’t you dare forget the dips! My favorite combos were the regular sugar in the Avellana (a chocolate hazelnut dip, similar to Nutella) and the cinnamon sugar in the Cajeta (a smooth caramel). Wash it down with a warm glass of their hot chocolate, too! You won’t be disappointed.
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