Mexico City

Mexico City, or CDMX as it's commonly known, is just electric. It's this massive, sprawling metropolis that feels less like one city and more like a collection of distinct towns, each with its own personality. The energy here is palpable—a constant hum of vendors, traffic, music, and conversation, all layered over centuries of Aztec and colonial history. It's chaotic, sure, but in the most beautiful and compelling way.

There are three irresistible reasons to drop everything and go to CDMX. First, the food scene is genuinely world-class, and that's not just about the famous restaurants. The street food alone is a revelation; tacos al pastor here are transformative and can be enjoyed for about a dollar. Second, the city is a living museum. You can be standing in the Zócalo, looking at a centuries-old cathedral built atop an ancient Aztec temple, and feel the sheer weight of history. Lastly, it offers incredible value. Your money goes a long way here, allowing for experiences that would cost a fortune in other major world cities.

The people of Mexico City, known as "Chilangos," are incredibly warm and resilient. There's a formal politeness in interactions, but also a genuine friendliness once you break the ice. Spanish is the lingua franca, and while you can get by with English in touristy areas like Roma and Polanco, making an effort with even a few Spanish phrases is hugely appreciated. The city is a massive melting pot of people from all over Mexico and the world, creating a diverse and dynamic social fabric.

The food here is everything. You absolutely must try tacos al pastor from a street stall—look for the vertical spit of marinated pork. Chilaquiles for breakfast are non-negotiable, and a good mole is a complex, rich experience. Dining can be incredibly cheap; an amazing street food meal can be had for under $5. Even a meal at a mid-range restaurant is often a fraction of what you'd pay in the US or Europe. Many travelers find that some of the best meals come from tiny street corner stands, proving you don't need a fancy setting for incredible flavor.

CDMX is a megacity, and its infrastructure often shows its age. The internet is generally reliable in central neighborhoods, especially in cafes and coworking spaces, but don't expect blazing speeds everywhere. Power outages are not common, but can happen. The public transport, especially the Metro, is incredibly efficient and cheap for getting around, though it gets intensely crowded during peak hours. The Metrobús system continues to expand and modernize, with electric buses introduced on some lines in 2025. The city is also in an active seismic zone, so earthquakes are a reality, though modern buildings are constructed with this in mind.

You'll be flying into Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX). To get into the city, using a ride-hailing app like Uber or DiDi is often the best choice, as they are generally safe and affordable. Alternatively, you can use the official, pre-paid airport taxis ("Transporte Terrestre"), which typically cost 300-400 MXN to central neighborhoods. For the super budget-conscious, the Metrobus Line 4 or Metro Line 5 are direct and incredibly cheap options, though they aren't recommended if you have a lot of luggage.

The best way to navigate CDMX is with the Metro and Metrobús. You'll need to buy a rechargeable "Tarjeta de Movilidad Integrada" (Integrated Mobility Card) from a station vending machine. It costs 15 MXN for the card itself. The Metro is a flat 5 MXN per journey, and the Metrobús is 6 MXN per journey. It's efficient and costs next to nothing. For shorter distances, ride-hailing apps are plentiful and cheap. Many central neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa are extremely walkable, and exploring them on foot is a joy.

Mexico City is a place where heightened situational awareness is crucial. The U.S. Department of State currently advises travelers to "Exercise Increased Caution" (Level 2) for Mexico overall, a rating updated in August 2025 to include a terrorism risk. While this is a national advisory, large-scale cartel violence or direct terrorist attacks rarely affect tourist zones within Mexico City. However, opportunistic and violent crime remains a concern.

Crime Risks: Violent robbery is a risk, often occurring near busy transit hubs or after cash withdrawals. "Express kidnappings," where victims are forced to withdraw money from ATMs, can happen, though incidents specifically targeting tourists are uncommon compared to petty crime. Petty crime like pickpocketing is very common in crowded areas and on public transport, even in popular neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Polanco.

Transportation Safety: Never hail street taxis, especially at night. Stick exclusively to ride-hailing apps like Uber or DiDi, which are generally safer and more trackable.

Police Interactions: Be aware that some police have been known to solicit bribes. Remain polite but firm, and know your rights. Avoid flashing expensive jewelry or electronics.

Outside the City: Violent crime, including carjacking, is more prevalent in Mexico State, which borders Mexico City. This is a significant risk for those considering renting vehicles or venturing into the State of Mexico.

Overall: By being aware of your surroundings, securing your belongings, and sticking to well-trodden areas and reputable transport, you can significantly mitigate risks.