In Mexico City's Historic Center, each step leads you to a different marvel: from fascinating pre-Hispanic ruins to terraces with fabulous views. It's a place where you can enjoy freshly baked bread at breakfast, stroll through lively streets, visit exciting museums, and close out the night with an artisanal cocktail overlooking glittering city lights.
If you're planning your visit, here's a guide to spending a full day in the Historic Center, enjoying the best our area has to offer.
Start with a Good Breakfast
A great day starts with a good breakfast. In the Historic Center, an iconic breakfast spot is El Cardenal, famous for its freshly baked sweet breads and authentic hot chocolate.
Balcón del Zócalo is another top choice, where besides eating a delicious meal, you can enjoy an incredible panoramic view of the Zócalo, the Palacio Nacional, and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
Visit the Templo Mayor
Just a few steps from the Zócalo you’ll find the Templo Mayor, which was the main ceremonial center of the Mexica people. (Known as Aztecs in modern times, their name for themselves was the Mexica, pronounced “Meh-SHEE-ka”). Here you can discover the temple’s history and imagine life in their metropolis, Tenochtitlan.
We recommend visiting early, as the outdoor area can get hot when the sun is at its strongest, and there’s not much shade. After touring the ruins, head to the on-site museum that houses impressive artifacts found right there.
Walk Down Madero Street
This is the most famous pedestrian street in the Historic Center and a must-see. Lining the street, you'll find Mexican clothing and design shops, churches and historic buildings, incredible architecture, and several cultural venues.
Take a Break at Café Central
Swing by Café Central any time, day or night. If you’re staying at one of Central Hoteles three hotels in the Historic Center, you can enjoy free drinks and snacks here 24 hours a day.
It's the perfect stop to recharge your batteries before continuing to explore the neighborhood.
Discover an Iconic Museum
The Historic Center is home to some of best museums in all of Mexico, so visiting at least one should definitely be part of your itinerary.
Admire the murals at the Palacio de Bellas Arte and check out a temporary exhibition or concert.
Or, check out MUNAL (the National Museum of Art), home to an impressive, enormous collection.
Tip: These are large museums, so if you want to see everything in one afternoon, don't linger too long in the rooms that don't really catch your eye.
Sample Some Tacos
The Historic Center is a paradise for taco lovers. Here, many local taquerias have become famous for their flavor and traditions. Visiting them is a staple on any itinerary.
You can follow our Taco Trail in the Historic Center to discover some of the area’s standouts.
Or, for a truly special taco experience in the Historic Center, head to the Taco Tasting Room, an innovative concept that turns taco sampling into a sensory delight. It's an intimate space, seating up to 14 people per session, where each taco is presented as a unique gourmet creation. Here you don't just eat; you also chat with the chef and cooks, enjoy special pairings, and soak up an atmosphere designed to stimulate all the senses.
It's a unique option that's getting trendy fast. Advance reservations are required.
End Your Day with a Beer or Cocktail on a Terrace
Ease into evening by watching the city lights come on from a terrace. If you didn't have breakfast at Balcón del Zócalo, now is a perfect time to visit and enjoy dinner or a couple of drinks with one of the Historic Center’s most impressive views.
Spending your day like this, we think you’ll agree that the Historic Center is one of the most fascinating places in Mexico City. To make the most of your visit, stay at Central Hoteles. It's the best option: a perfect location, warm personalized service, and benefits like Café Central available 24 hours a day. Staying here, your experience will be comfortable, convenient, and filled with wonderful moments from start to finish.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Travel, culture and traditions in Mexico City.
