5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Mexico City
Overview
This 5-day family-friendly itinerary for Mexico City is designed to provide a well-rounded experience for 2 adults and 2 children, covering the city’s top attractions, outdoor activities, and vegetarian-friendly dining options. The trip is scheduled for late November, taking advantage of the pleasant weather and avoiding the peak tourist season.
Day 1: Explore the Historic City Center
Activities:
- Visit the Zócalo (Main Square) - the heart of Mexico City, home to the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace
- Tour the Templo Mayor - the impressive Aztec ruins in the city center
- Stroll through the Mercado de Artesanías (Handicraft Market) to shop for local crafts and souvenirs
Dining:
- Restaurante Nicos - a renowned vegetarian-friendly restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine
Accommodation:
Hotel Geneve Ciudad de México
- Reason: Centrally located 4-star hotel within walking distance of the historic city center
Note:
The weather in late November in Mexico City is typically mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 23°C (73°F). Lightweight clothing, such as t-shirts, pants, and a light jacket, should be sufficient. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the city on foot.
Day 2: Discover Chapultepec Park and Museums
Activities:
- Spend the day at Chapultepec Park, the largest city park in Latin America, featuring the Chapultepec Castle, the National Museum of Anthropology, and the Museum of Modern Art
- Take a boat ride on the Lago de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Lake)
Dining:
- El Cardenal - a traditional Mexican restaurant with a focus on vegetarian dishes
Accommodation:
Camino Real Polanco Mexico
- Reason: Upscale 4-star hotel located in the fashionable Polanco district, close to Chapultepec Park
Note:
The weather in late November is ideal for outdoor activities, with plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures. Dress in layers, as the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day.
Day 3: Explore the Colorful Neighborhoods
Activities:
- Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum in the vibrant Coyoacán neighborhood
- Stroll through the Mercado de Coyoacán and enjoy the lively atmosphere
- Explore the Xochimilco Floating Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, by taking a colorful ‘trajinera’ boat ride
Dining:
- Restaurante El Naranjo - a contemporary vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Coyoacán
Accommodation:
Live Aqua Urban Resort Mexico City
- Reason: Luxurious 4-star resort with a focus on wellness and sustainability, located in the trendy Roma Norte neighborhood
Note:
November is a great time to visit the Xochimilco Floating Gardens, as the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak tourist season. Dress comfortably and bring sun protection.
Day 4: Immerse in Mexican Culinary Delights
Activities:
- Join a Mercado San Juan Food Tour to discover the vibrant food market and sample a variety of local vegetarian dishes
- Attend a Mexican Cooking Class to learn how to prepare traditional Mexican dishes
Dining:
- Fonda Margarita - a family-owned restaurant serving authentic, home-style Mexican vegetarian cuisine
Accommodation:
Condesa DF
- Reason: Design-focused 4-star hotel located in the trendy Condesa neighborhood, known for its vibrant food scene
Note:
The Mercado San Juan and Mexican cooking class provide an immersive culinary experience, allowing you to delve into the rich gastronomic heritage of Mexico. Dress comfortably, as you’ll be on your feet for much of the day.
Day 5: Discover the Pyramids of Teotihuacán
Activities:
- Take a day trip to the Pyramids of Teotihuacán, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive ancient sites in Mexico
- Climb the Pyramid of the Sun for panoramic views of the site
- Explore the Avenue of the Dead and learn about the history and significance of this ancient city
Dining:
- Restaurante Teopan - a vegetarian-friendly restaurant located near the Pyramids of Teotihuacán, serving traditional Mexican dishes
Accommodation:
Hotel Camino Real Aeropuerto México
- Reason: Conveniently located 4-star hotel near the Mexico City International Airport, ideal for the departure day
Note:
The weather in late November at the Pyramids of Teotihuacán is typically sunny and mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, and bring sun protection, as there is limited shade at the site.
Estimated Costs
Category |
Cost (USD) |
Accommodation (5 nights) |
2,500 |
Meals (3 meals per day) |
1,000 |
Activities and Entrance Fees |
1,000 |
Local Transportation |
500 |
Total |
5,000 |
Note: Accommodation costs may fluctuate due to factors like seasonality, local events, and market conditions. Please check Expedia for the most up-to-date pricing.
Other Attractions
- Paseo de la Reforma - the iconic boulevard with monuments and museums
- Palacio de Bellas Artes - a stunning art nouveau and art deco building housing a museum and performing arts center
- Museo del Templo Mayor - a museum showcasing the excavated ruins of the Aztec’s main temple
- Museo del Agua - an interactive museum exploring Mexico City’s water history and conservation efforts