Mexico Travel - What a Surprise!

As an avid traveler, I have made it my life's mission to see the famous wonders of the world such as the Taj Mahal, the Egyptian pyramids, Angkor Wat, Machu Picchu and many more.

Truthfully, I did not think of Mexico as a destination to see some spectacular historical sites. 

Having lived in UK, US and Canada, most of the things I had heard about was the drug wars and Cancun. You know what I'm talking about right?

Well our recent trip to Mexico opened our eyes to the Wonders that are right at our door steps in North America that are as exciting to see as the most famous sites I mentioned earlier.

So why should Mexico and in particular Mexico City be on your bucket list of must visit places in this world? 

Amazing historical sites, world-class museums, friendly people, short haul flights from Canada and US, great food, nice climate and most importantly, easy on the wallet...😅

So if I got you interested in visiting Mexico City, then in this article I will help you in making the most of your trip while in Mexico City, including navigating the Mexico City Airport on arrival, best area of the city to stay during your trip, local transportation and of course places you must see and experience. 

So let's get going…..

TEOTIHUACAN –  The North American Pyramids

 Usually, when you mention pyramids, let me guess, you think of Egypt and the famous pyramids of Giza. But pyramids in North America?  Yep.

Picture of the Pyramid of the Sun and Smaller Pyramids at the Site

These pyramids of the sun and moon are part of the very large Teotihuacan archaeological site located just outside Mexico City. 

Historically, Teotihuacan is a Mesoamerican City established around 100 BCE with an estimated population of 125,000 people.  There is not much of an evidence as to who built it and why it was abandoned by its inhabitants.

The Teotihuacan site is huge complex that requires that you plan to be there for at least 4-6 hours for you to see and appreciate the entire site that includes the sun and the moon pyramids, ruins of the city’s residential areas and the local museum.

Entrance to the Teotihuacan Museum

You can see all the pictures or YouTube videos of this site, but that would be nothing compared to standing in the middle of this awesome site.

What’s to see:  

Due to the size of the complex, there is lots of walking to do.  

As you enter the site after the ticket office (This is where there is water and washrooms available), you will on a walking path called the Avenue of the Dead which runs along the middle of the site.  You will see many small attractions on the way to the main area of the complex.

A Map of the Teotihuacan Complex located at the main entrance

As you walk along the Avenue of the Dead, take the time to see some of the small monuments along the way to the main attractions, the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon.   The Pyramid of the Sun is the largest structure at the site measuring approximately 700 ft. wide and 200 ft. high. After absorbing the site from the square at the base of the Pyramid of the Sun, most visitors want to climb to the top of the Pyramid.  There are about 250 steep steps to get to the top of the Pyramid. Don’t give up on climbing to the top of the Pyramid, even if you have to stop and have some rest along the way.  When you do get to the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the entire complex.  Spend some time at the top and breath-it –in.

  

The Pyramid of The Sun - Steep Steps to get to the Top

View of the Teotihuacan Complex from the top of the Pyramid of the Sun

After expending your energy on climbing the Pyramid of the Sun, you may or may not have enough energy to also climb the Pyramid of the Moon, which is a smaller structure.  From the top of the Pyramid of the Moon, you will be able to see the entire Avenue of the Dead.

Other interesting parts include the Temple of the Feathered Serpent and The Jaguar Palace where you will see the murals of mythical creatures.  These places were temples for worshipping and making human sacrifices.

Murals of The Mythical Creatures

Don’t leave the site without visiting the Archaeological Museum.   If you entered through Main Entrance 1, then you will see the Archaeological Museum is on the way to the Pyramids.  After visiting the magnificent site, you will appreciate the displayed artifacts that provide the historical context of Teotihuacan Complex.  The Museum Fee is part of your entrance ticket. 

To have a comfortable visit to the Teotihuacan, make sure to take your hat, sunscreen and water.  Since there is quite a lot of walking and climbing, you will feel the heat as there are not too many places at the site where you can shelter from the hot sun.

At one of the entrances close to the Pyramids, there are some small shops selling some water, snacks and ahh.. Ice Cream.

You will also find various vendors selling local Souvenirs. Practice your bargaining Skills if you decide to buy something.

How to Get there:  There are multiple way of getting there as a tourist, including Taxis, Uber, Tour buses, etc.  To me the best way to enjoy visiting a country is to travel like the locals.  Using the local transport makes you appreciate the daily life of the locals and see the multitude of features of the local population.

The Transportation System in Mexico City is amazingly efficient and very easy and cheap to use, even though it is very crowded.  To get to Teotihuacan, Take the Metro (Yellow Line 5) to Autobuses Del Norte.  When you come out of the subway, you walk across the road to the Del Norte Bus station, a huge bus terminal.  When you enter the bus station, walk towards the right to Gate 8.  Purchase your return tickets at this gate and you can ask to be guided to the bus for “Piramids”.  The Bus will drop you at the Main Gate-1 (Puerta-1) and Pick you up at the same location on the way back.  The bus frequency is every 30 minute and gets full very fast.  Don’t hesitate to ask for help, even if you don’t speak Spanish.  There is always someone who will be able to help.

Bus Terminal to Catch a Bus to the Teotihuacan Site

TEMPLO MAYOR MUSEUM – Archeological Site and Museum

Depictions of the Serpent God at The Templo Mayor Ruins

The Templo Mayor is what is remaining of the Great Temple of the indigenous mexica people in their Capital City of Tenochtitlan, which is now Mexico City.  The Temple was dedicated to the gods of war and rain.   The initial construction of the Temple is estimated to have began some times after 1321. Temple was rebuilt six times by successive Aztec emperors.  The Temple was destroyed by the Spanish in 1521 to make way for a new cathedral.  

Some of the Beautiful Artifacts at the Templo Mayor Museum

The Museum part of the Archeological site houses the sensitive artifacts found at the site.  The Museum has multiple exhibition halls located to different themes that show the history and culture of the indigenous people. The amazing collection of artifacts and will most certainly open your eyes to the Mexican History and culture.

Near the entrance of the Museum, depending on when you visit, you may be able to witness the religious ceremonies being conducted by the Mexican Priests and get a chance to participate and have your photo taken with colorful costumes.

  

Religious Ceremonies being Conducted in Front of the Temple Site

How to get there: The Museum is located in the heart of the historical center of Mexico City.  Best way to get there by public transport is to use the Metro Subway to Zocalo.  There are Multiple Exits at Zocalo subway, take the exit for the Cathedral and the Templo Mayor is located next to the Cathedral.  

As another tip: don’t take any food, water or chewing gum into the museum.   Your belongings will be searched and backpacks will be kept for you to pick-up when you return. 

CHAPULTEPEC CASTLE AND CHAPULTEPEC FOREST

A castle in Mexico City?  This was a real surprise to us.  The Chapultepec Castle is located in the heart of Mexico City surrounded by 1695 acres of Chapultepec Forest Park, a must visit attraction for any visitor to Mexico City.

   

Entrance to The Palace at the Top of the Hill

Ticket Office to Enter the Palace at the Base of the Hill

Compared to the Teotihuacan complex and Templo Mayor, the Chapultepec Castle/Palace represents more recent history of Mexico, even though the Forest area has been inhabited and considered a landmark since the Pre-Columbian era, when it became a retreat for Aztec rulers. 

The Chapultepec Castle was built during the colonial period and served as a summer retreat for colonial viceroys. After Mexico achieved independence in 1821, the Castle became the official residence of the head of state. A number of these, especially Emperor Maximilian I and his wife, embellished and expanded the castle as well as the forest area around it. The Hill was also the site of the Battle of Chapultepec in 1847, between Mexican and U.S. troops. 

  

Magnificent Murals as you enter the Palace Building 

The Castle is located on top of a Hill.  After purchasing your ticket at the entrance at the bottom of the hill, you will have to make your way to the top of the hill.  The climb is very pleasant and you are exposed to the magnificent views of the Forest.  At the top of the hill, you will be asked to leave any food and water bottles at the gate.

The Castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens.  The Castle serves as a Museum of History.  At the entrance you will see magnificent murals that cover the walls and the roof.  The stained glass windows reflect religious imagery. The displays include colonial era jewelry and clothes.  The rooms show the opulent lifestyle of the colonial rulers.  As you get to the top part of the castle, you get to see breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and bustling Mexico City.  You will be tempted to take photos around every corner.  

Palace Gardens and Magnificent Views from the Top of the Palace

After a visit to the Castle, you may to want to take in the sites and attractions located inside the Chapultepec Forest (Park) area.  The park is huge, one of the largest city green area in the Western Hemisphere.  The park is considered to be the “lungs” of the Mexico City and one of the most visited places in a bustling City of approximately 21 Million people.  The Park gets some 15 million visitors per year.  Probably like most visitors, we almost missed seeing this beautiful green space.  The visitors to the park have a multitude of things to do. See the Anthropology museum that includes artifacts from the ancient Maya civilization; museum of contemporary arts that includes paintings, sculptures and photography; botanical garden; A zoo featuring nearly 2,000 animals, including giant pandas & others that are endangered; history museum; relax and take a boat ride at the lake; check out the huge trees as you walk along this huge park; and enjoy the local souvenir shopping and the food.  

Park that is Surrounding The Palace Complex

On the way to the park and the castle, you can also see the monument to the Cadet Heroes who sacrificed themselves at the Castle rather than surrendering to the invading US troops.

Monument to The Cadet Heroes

How to get there:  The best way to get to the Chapultepec Castle by using the local transport is to use the Metro Subway to the Auditorio station (Line-7) or the Chapultepec station (Line-1).  The subway station closest to the Castle is Chapultepec and if you want to see the zoo first then go to the Auditorio subway station.

Other Tips: Sunday is a very busy day as locals can visit to the castle free.  The hill to the top of the castle is pretty steep, allow some time to have some rest along the way for someone older or has physical limitations.  As always, take some water, use sunscreen and use a hat as protection from the sun. For a relaxed visit, plan for more than one day to see everything that this area has to offer.

PALACIO DE BELLAS ARTES – The Palace of Fine Arts

The Palace of fine arts is a very beautiful prominent building in Mexico City.  A must visit site while you are in Mexico City.

Front View of The Palace of Fine Arts

This opulent building serves a cultural center in the city.  This artistic building was started in 1904, but finally completed in 1934.  Palacio de Bellas Artes has been used for hosting historical and current events in music, dance, theater and opera. Serves as a place to hold famous art, sculptures, paintings and photography exhibitions.  Due to its prominence as a cultural center, the Building is known as the Cathedral of Art in Mexico. The inside and outside of the building itself is an art.  On the inside there are marble floors; beautiful murals and paintings by world famous Mexican artists; Museum of Architecture and Museum of Art. If time allows, attend a performance in the world-class theater.

Next to the Palace is a beautiful park (Mexico City’s oldest municipal park).  The park includes a marble Monument to a former president and is a great place to sit and enjoy people watching and outside views of the Artistic Palace of Fine Arts. You may be lucky to get a chance to see the Mexican police on horseback riding next to the park.   

Park Located Next to the Palacio de Bellas Artes

How to get there:  The best way to get to the Palacio de Bellas Artes by using the local transport is to use the Metro Subway to the Bellas Artes station (Blue Line- 2 or Green Line 8).  AS you come out of the metro station, you will see the Palace of Arts building right in front of the station.  You can also walk to this landmark if you are visiting the Mexico City’s Historical Center.  

METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL

Mexico City has lots of Churches.  Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral stands out.  It’s a Grand Roman Catholic church, one of the largest and oldest in Latin America.

Front View of the Metropolitan Cathedral

This Cathedral is located in the Historic Center of Mexico City.  It took almost 250 years to build (1573-1813).  It is built on top of the former Aztec sacred area next to the Templo Mayor.  The Aztec Temple Ruins are preserved in the Museum located next to the Cathedral.  The stones from the destruction of the Aztec Temple were used as building material for the church.   The Cathedral has beautifully crafted and decorated Altars (The Altar of the Kings and the Altar of Forgiveness) and 16 Chapels.   A quiet walk around the Cathedral is great for the mind and Soul.  

Views of Magnificent Altars inside the Cathedral

How to get there:  The Cathedral is located next to the Templo Mayor Museum in the heart of the Mexico Historical Centre. The best way to get to the Cathedral by using the local transport is to use the Metro Subway to the Zocalo station (Blue Line- 2).  As you come out of the metro station, you will see the Cathedral right in front of the station.  You can also walk to this landmark if you are visiting the Mexico City’s Historical Center.  The Cathedral is Open to the Public to sit for prayers and view the magnificent Altars and various prayer Chapels.

MEXICO CITY HISTORIC CENTRE

If by now you have visited the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Templo Mayor, then you could not have missed the Mexico City Historic Centre.  In a huge city of approximately 25 million people with spread out neighborhoods, the Historic Center is the core around which all the neighborhoods exist.  Most of the Sites mentioned above are located in and around the Historic Center (Other than the Palace).   The central anchor in the historic area is Zocalo plaza, a very large public square. 

Mexico City Historic Centre Square with View of the National Palace on one side

There seems to be something interesting to see and do in all directions of the square.  If you are lucky, you may be there when the site is hosting a cultural exhibition, a demonstration or having a celebration.   The Cathedral and Templo Mayor sites represent only one corner of the square.  The important sites around the square include: (1) The Palacio Nacional (The National Palace). This palace is a government building with an office for Mexico's president.  The palace is to free to visit and explore. (2) Museo de la Ciudad de Mexico. This is a large palace-turned-museum offering tours of the building & exhibits on the history of Mexico City. (3) Get tickets for hop-on-hop-off bus tours. (4) Streets full of Shops and Food.  In any direction you walk, you will see the streets full of shops, local and international brands. (5) Hotels if you want to stay in the Historic City Area.  A walk along the streets around the Zocalo Plaza is a must for any visitor to experience the vibrant nature of Mexico City and to enjoy some local or western food, while doing some shopping and/or people watching.  

Exhibition selling Local Handicrafts and Foods at the Historic Centre Square

LUCHA LIBRE – Mexican Wrestling 

A trip to Mexico City would not be complete if you don’t go to a Lucha Libre (Mexican Wrestling) show.  Even if you are not a fan of wrestling, this is a form of entertainment that you would thoroughly enjoy.  Lucha Libre is a freestyle form of wrestling that involves masked wrestlers with great acrobatic skills.  If you have seen the famous comedy movie Nacho Libre (Starring Jack Black), you already have some idea as to what this show is about. 

Lucha Libre Freestyle Wrestlers with Dancers in the Background

The almost one-hour long show includes dancers, multiple bouts of wrestling involving 10-12 masked wrestlers.  The wrestling matches include two single wrestlers (one-on-one) and up to 2-3 member teams (tag Teams).  There are female matches and male matches. The entertainers get the crowds involved with their acrobatic and comedy wrestling moves.  Close-ups are shown on the big screens in the stadium.  As you are watching the show, you can buy beer, pizza and other food that gets delivered to your seat.  The marvelous feats acrobatics include flying over the ropes and even kicking and fighting on the floor.  This is not violence but all planned entertainment for people of all ages.  The show involves the audience in supporting the good guys against the bad guys.

The rules are not all that important as the winners and losers are pre-determined. To win a match you have to pin your opponent down till the referee counts to three or forced to submit.

The most popular place to see the show is at the Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL – The World Wrestling Council).  The tickets can be purchased in advance from Ticket Master or at the gate.   The tickets are relatively cheap, so buy the ones that gets you a seat closer to the ring.  The stadium itself is secure and very well organized.  The area surrounding the stadium looks a bit rundown.

Outside the stadium, there are a quite a number of vendors selling the Lucha Libre masks.  A lot of the people attending the show end up buying the masks as souvenirs or even buying them to have one on for photographs during the show.

How to get there: Most of the attraction highlighted in this article are easy to get to by local transport and are located in busy tourist areas.  The CMLL stadium is a bit of a walk from the nearest metro station.  Since its pretty dark when the show ends, it may be a little intimidating for foreign visitors to be walking the street in a little rundown area of they city.  So in this case, I would suggest it may be worthwhile using the Uber or get your hotel taxi to take you there and pick you up.  We actually used the local transport to get there and back with no issues.  To get there by local transport, is to take the Metro Subway to Cuauhtémoc (Pink Line-1) or Balderas (Pink Line-1 or Green Line-3).   And walk to the Arena Mexico.  If you get disorientated when you get out of the subway station, you can always ask for direction to the Arena Mexico from the locals, even if you don’t speak Spanish. 

Map for Location of the Arena and the Nearest Metro Stations

ADDITIONAL TIPS

1. The Mexico City International Airport (MEX) is very busy place handling both local and international flights.  The Terminal is a one long corridor.  You will be required to fill out an immigration form and are expected to keep the one half of the form to provide when you leave the country.  
2. When you get out of customs into the arrivals area, you have a chance to book a local taxi from multiple taxi stands.  The prices for various zones are displayed on the counter.  You may also use a Uber, if you have the international phone service/data.  This is the place where you can also exchange your currency, if you don't have Mexican Pesos.
3. The best place to stay would be near a Metro Station so you can easily get to most parts of the city using the Metro System.  We stayed near the World Trade Centre, a central and upscale part of the city.
4. The Local Transportation System is Busy, but very easy to use, so is Uber.  You Can Travel in Mexico City to most places efficiently and cheaply by using a combination of Metro Buses and Metro Subway.  Print a PDF Map of the Metro Bus and Metro Subway to Keep with you so you know which line to take and where to change.  Get a Metro Card at a Station and fill it up with about 50 or 100 Pesos (about 5 US dollar) and you can travel almost anywhere in Mexico city.  The Card can be easily refilled at any of the subway and metro-bus stations.
5. Currency use in Mexico City is Mexican Pesos.  There are quite a number of exchanges in the city as well as at the airport.  It may be advisable to get 5,000 Pesos before you leave for immediate needs, while the exchange the balance as you spend.
6. Depending on what tie of the year you travel, its always advisable to take sun lotions and a hat with you.  During December/January period, its pretty cool in the morning, so make sure you have a light jacket (for mornings and evenings).
7. We did not have any safety issues in Mexico City and felt quite safe.  But, its always advisable not to travel with expensive wear and lots of money.
8. Learn few words of Spanish to try while you are in mexico.

Enjoy your trip to Mexico City……………