5 Days in Mexico City: The Perfect Itinerary

Mexico City is a vibrant blend of ancient ruins, modern art, incredible food, and rich history. With five full days, you can dive into both the cultural and natural beauty the city and its surroundings offer. This itinerary balances sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation—including two unforgettable tours: a hot air balloon flight over Teotihuacan with a cave breakfast, and a day trip to the thermal pools of Tolantongo.

Day 1: Arrival and Local Neighborhoods (Roma & Condesa)

Morning

• Arrive in Mexico City (Benito Juárez International Airport)

• Check in to your accommodation in Roma Norte, Condesa, or Centro Histórico

Afternoon

• Walk through Parque México and Parque España

• Lunch at Lalo!, Contramar, or La Capital

Evening

• Explore Roma Norte’s colorful streets and boutique shops

• Dinner at Rosetta (reservations recommended) or Merkavá

• Optional nightcap at Licorería Limantour, one of the best bars in the world

Day 2: Hot Air Balloon Flight + Teotihuacan Pyramids + Cave Breakfast

Early Morning

• Pickup from CDMX around 3:00–4:00 AM

• Hot air balloon ride over the Teotihuacan pyramids at sunrise

• Breakfast in a volcanic cave at La Gruta restaurant

• Guided tour of the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon and Temple of Quetzalcoatl

Afternoon

• Return to Mexico City around 3:00–4:00 PM

• Rest and freshen up

Evening

• Dinner at Pujol (advance booking required) or Fonda Fina for upscale Mexican fare

Day 3: History, Culture, and Iconic Landmarks

Morning

• Breakfast at Cicatriz Café or Panadería Rosetta

• Visit the Zócalo (main square), Metropolitan Cathedral, Templo Mayor ruins, and Palacio de Bellas Artes

• Explore Casa de los Azulejos (House of Tiles)

Afternoon

• Tour Chapultepec Castle for panoramic city views and history

• Visit the National Museum of Anthropology

Evening

• Dinner at Azul Histórico in a stunning courtyard setting

• Evening trip to Plaza Garibaldi to enjoy live mariachi music

Day 4: Full-Day Tour to Grutas de Tolantongo

Early Morning

• Pickup around 4:00 AM for your full-day tour

• Travel to Grutas de Tolantongo, known for its turquoise thermal pools and cave rivers

• Spend the day relaxing in natural pools, exploring waterfalls and tunnels

• Lunch available at the park’s restaurants

Evening

• Return to Mexico City by 8:00–9:00 PM

• Light dinner or unwind at your hotel

Day 5: Markets, Culture, and Departure

Morning

• Breakfast at Maque or El Cardenal

• Explore Mercado de Coyoacán or Mercado Roma for souvenirs and local eats

• Optional visit to Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul) in Coyoacán — book in advance

Afternoon

• Lunch at Los Danzantes or grab tacos from El Vilsito

• Final stroll and pack up

• Head to the airport for your departure

Travel Tips

• Use pesos; not all places accept foreign cards

• Uber is the safest and easiest way to get around

• Weather varies — bring layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons

• Reserve major restaurants and museum tickets in advance

• Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience