Oozing with Spanish Colonial charm and a cultural renaissance that is a million miles away from the war on drugs, Mexico City is a buzzing metropolis just waiting to be discovered. For a wide range of places to stay, visit FlipKey where you’ll find your perfect vacation rental.

About Mexico City

Mexico City is the second largest city in the western hemisphere, after New York, with a metropolitan area containing over 21 million people.

Once the capital of the Aztec Empire, Tenochtitlan—as it was known then—was razed to the ground by Spanish explorer Hernán Cortés in August 1521. The city was rebuilt with churches placed over Aztec temples and became the capital of New Spain.

Mexico became an independent nation in 1821 following a rebellion against Spanish rule. However, it still had to endure a ten-year civil war between 1910 and 1920.

Since then, the city has experienced tremendous growth—it hosted the 1968 Olympics and both the 1970 and 1986 World Cups. It's a popular destination and should definitely be on your vacation wish-list.

What to do in Mexico City

The first-time visitor to Mexico City will be amazed by the size and grandeur of the Plaza de la Constitución and its enormous Mexican flag which is ceremoniously raised and lowered each day.

During a visit to the city, be sure to visit the Museo Nacional de Antropología—it is the most visited museum in the country and on par with the world’s best.

Spend the afternoon with an ice cream as you explore Chapultepec Park before watching the sunset from the bar of what was once the city’s tallest building—the Torre Latino.

For traditional Mariachi bands and cantinas, visit Garibaldi Square where ornately dressed musicians belt out heartfelt ballads.

A day trip to the Moon & Sun Pyramids is a must, as is a visit to the Palacio de Bellas Artes to witness one of the best dance shows on earth—the Ballet Folklorico.

Top travel tips for Mexico City

Visit between the months of December and April when there is virtually no rain, but be sure to pack a sweater as the evenings can be chilly due to the high altitude.

Be sure to make use of the city’s extensive Metro. It's safe and and affordable, with a single fare costing just .30¢.

The Zona Rosa is where you want to hang out at night, with buzzing bars aplenty. On the way home to your rental, don’t forget to try some street food as it’s insanely delicious.

We recommend steering clear of tap water and only drinking bottled. If your Spanish is up to it, you could try asking for “agua de garrafon” (filtered water) while in restaurants.

Mexico City is a popular destination now and deservedly so, with its friendly people, absorbing history, vibrant arts scene—as well as a low peso that makes designer shopping an affordable treat. For all your accommodation needs, visit FlipKey where you will find the perfect rental property for your next vacation.