Where should we stay in Mexico City?

We recommend the neighborhoods of Roma Norte, Condesa, Polanco or Zona Rosa (La Reforma).

1: Roma Norte: Young and Hip

Roma Norte was designated as a “Barrio Magico” by the city—and the magic of this place will be *instantly* clear when you see Roma’s vibrant Art Deco architecture.

Here, locals say you'll find a spectacular food scene. They can recommend specific restaurants or bars based on your travel style, but most of our locals recommend a visit to the Mercado Roma. This fancy food hall offers everything from churros to craft beer, as well as an impressive view from its rooftop.

Locals say that Roma is also known for its stellar cafes. You'll find a good one just by wandering around, but locals note that Buna has a sterling reputation when it comes to coffee.

Local Tip: Exploring the wild and colorful street art in Roma is a great non-touristy activity in Mexico City (plus, it's free!)

2: Condesa: Chill, Authentic, Trendy (OUR FAVORITE)

Roma and Condesa are sister neighborhoods with a shared history, and their proximity puts them high on our list of places to visit in Mexico City. Like Roma, Condesa is flush with color, which makes this a gorgeous day trip or home base for visitors.

Plus, its wide, leafy boulevards also make Condesa feel far from the hustle and bustle of downtown (even though Centro Historico is only a few miles away). One of Condesa’s main attractions, the gorgeous Parque Mexico, is filled with dogs, music, and plenty of benches to take it all in.

Local Tip: For some of the best street food in Condesa, you should head to a surprising spot: the Condesa metro station at Chilpancingo. Browse the stalls just outside the station for tons of delicious local options like tlacoyos, thick corn patties stuffed with beans and meat

3: Polanco: Sleek and fun

Polanco is filled with high-end shopping, fancy cocktail bars, and some of the world’s best restaurants. If you’re wondering where to eat in Mexico City, you might want to start in Polanco.

And Polanco’s not just a beautiful face with a meh personality. It contains some of Mexico City’s best places to go. Visitors can explore the brilliant Museo Soumaya (another great, free activity) and the beloved Museo Nacional de Antropologia.

Locals tell us that like Roma and Condesa, Polanco is considered to be among Mexico City’s safest neighborhoods.

Local Tip: Polanco is also intertwined with some of Mexico City’s best parks, including a section of the truly astounding Chapultepec Park.

4: Zona Rosa aka La Reforma

Nestled in Juarez is Zona Rosa, a neighborhood-within-a-neighborhood known for its nightlife. There are tons of clubs, restaurants, and bars in the area.

During the day, Zona Rosa is a great place to go shopping, or as a destination to see one of the city’s most famous monuments: El Angel (officially Monumento a la Independencia, or, basically, Angel of Independence). The monument was finished in 1910, which coincided with the 100-year anniversary of Mexico’s independence from Spain.

Local Tip: Check out Little Seoul, Mexico City’s Koreatown. It’s located mostly in and around Zona Ro