Enjoy big city vibes in a child-friendly way!
Mexico City is not really the place you go to spend a whole week or so with your family on holiday. But maybe you’re like us and Mexico City will be a stopover on your trip through Mexico that you simply want to enjoy with your kids. We’d love that! We absolutely adore this huge city with its 22 million inhabitants! It’s a really colourful and lively city, but it’s still urban.
The city is situated at an altitude of over 2200 metres and is surrounded by a magnificent mountainous landscape. The mountains are home to two magnificent volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl. There are so many lovely stories about Popocatépetl, as the Mexicans affectionately call him, that have been passed down from the Aztecs and which every kid still loves to hear today.
If you’re travelling to Mexico City with kids, you’ll probably think about safety at least once. And it’s totally understandable! There are some parts of the city that are best avoided, especially at night. However, you don’t need to worry about your safety in the places presented below if you stick to the simple rules. Just don’t wear flashy expensive jewellery and keep your bags closed.
In general, Mexico City is a very authentic city that invites you to immerse yourself in Mexican life. Here are a few tips on where and how to do this in Mexico City with kids.
1. Chapultepec Castle and the gorgeous green park around it
Start your journey with a visit to the impressive Chapultepec Castle, a truly magical place! This magnificent building sits on a hill and offers not only fascinating insights into the history of Mexico, but also a breathtaking view over the city. It’s well worth a visit! The castle is surrounded by a huge park, which is lovingly known as the green heart of the city. In this gorgeous forest, you can go for a lovely walk and leave all your everyday worries behind. The lovely squirrels will delight children with their curious nature and playful antics. They might even try to steal a snack from you! There are so many lovely market stalls selling delicious local treats and beautiful crafts, it’s the perfect place to take a little break in the countryside.
2. Creative art in the blue house of Frida Kahlo
You simply have to visit the Casa Azul, the Blue House of Frida Kahlo, if you love art! This museum is a real treasure! It’s the former home of the famous artist Frida Kahlo. The gorgeous rooms and the stunning garden really bring Frida Kahlo’s life and work to life. Children and adults alike will be inspired by the creativity and courage of this extraordinary woman. And now for something really special!
3. Mexican art: Coyoacán market
You simply have to visit the Coyoacán market! This is an absolute must when you’re in Mexico City with kids! Once you’ve had a good look around Casa Azul, you can explore the lively market of Coyoacán. This market is an absolute delight for all your senses! It’s filled with colourful stalls, the most delicious smells of freshly prepared food, and a lively atmosphere. You’ll find everything here, from traditional Mexican handicrafts to delicious local specialities! It’s the perfect place to take home an authentic piece of Mexico!
4. The heart of the city: The Zócalo
A visit to Mexico City would be incomplete without a quick detour to Zócalo, the central square of the city. Surrounded by impressive historical buildings such as the Cathedral and the National Palace, life really does pulsate here. There are often cultural events and concerts on the square that bring you closer to the rich culture of Mexico.
5. Safest means of transport: Touribus
If you’re looking for a comfortable way to explore all the amazing sights the city has to offer, the tourist bus is a great option! These lovely double-decker buses offer different routes that will take you to all the most important attractions. You can sit back, relax and enjoy the view while you learn some fascinating facts about the city and its history.
6. Culinary discoveries
Mexico City is a true paradise for gourmets! From delicious, traditional tacos at street stalls to the most exquisite cuisine in first-class restaurants, the variety is truly impressive! Why not treat yourself to a taste of Mexican cuisine? Children will love quesadillas (corn tortillas filled with cheese and guacamole). You simply have to try the tacos in any form, the tamales and mole (a Mexican chocolate curry that tastes slightly spicy and surprisingly little like chocolate as we know it, because only the beans are used for it – without sugar).
7. Where to stay in Mexico City with children
After an eventful day in the city, a cosy hotel room is just the thing. There are numerous options here in Mexico City, but unfortunately we don’t have the brilliant tip for you here. But we would look in the districts of Lomas de Chapultepec or Polanco – we’re sure you’ll find something perfect!
Even more tips for city trips with children from Lisbon via Paris and Munich can be found here.
