Our guide on the mistakes to avoid in Mexico City and how to avoid them for your next trip.
Mexico City is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history, incredible food, and a unique cultural blend. However, it’s also a sprawling city that can be overwhelming for first-time visitors.
To ensure you have a smooth, enjoyable experience in this bustling capital, here’s a guide to the most common mistakes tourists make when visiting Mexico City — and how to avoid them.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to fully enjoy Mexico City’s rich culture, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere. With a little planning and awareness, your visit to the Mexican capital can be a truly unforgettable experience.
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Mistakes to Avoid in Mexico City
1. Underestimating the Size of the City
Mistake: Mexico City is one of the largest cities in the world, and underestimating its size can lead to poor planning and lots of time lost in transit.
How to Avoid:
Plan Each Day by Neighborhood: Mexico City is divided into distinct neighborhoods (colonias), each with its own attractions and vibe. Plan to explore one or two neighborhoods per day to avoid wasting time traveling back and forth.
Use Public Transportation Wisely: The metro system is extensive, cheap, and often faster than taxis or Ubers during rush hour. The Metrobus and Ecobici bike-share are also good options.
Check Traffic Times: Traffic in Mexico City can be notoriously bad, especially during rush hour (7:00–9:30 am and 5:00–8:30 pm). Use Google Maps or the Waze app to monitor traffic and adjust your travel times accordingly.
Tip: Stay in a centrally located neighborhood like Roma, Condesa, or Polanco to reduce transit times.
2. Ignoring Altitude and Air Pollution
Mistake: Mexico City sits at 2,240 meters (7,350 feet) above sea level. The high altitude and occasional air pollution can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, and even altitude sickness.
How to Avoid:
Acclimate Slowly: Take it easy for the first day or two. Avoid strenuous activities until your body adjusts.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol, which can worsen dehydration at higher altitudes.
Use an Air Quality App: Download an app like AirVisual or Plume to monitor pollution levels and avoid outdoor activities on days when air quality is poor.
Tip: If you’re sensitive to air quality, bring a mask or stay indoors on high-pollution days.
3. Drinking Tap Water
Mistake: Tap water in Mexico City is not safe to drink, and consuming it can lead to stomach issues or Montezuma’s Revenge (traveler’s diarrhea).
How to Avoid:
Drink Bottled or Filtered Water: Always opt for bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Many hotels and restaurants provide bottled water for guests.
Avoid Ice in Drinks: While most upscale establishments use purified ice, it’s best to be cautious, especially at street stalls.
Eat Where Locals Eat: Choose street food stands or local restaurants with a steady flow of local customers — this is usually a sign of high food turnover and cleanliness.
Tip: Carry a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter (like a LifeStraw) to reduce plastic waste.
4. Not Using Pesos for Payments
Mistake: Assuming that U.S. dollars or credit cards are accepted everywhere can leave you stuck without a way to pay, especially at local markets or smaller establishments.
How to Avoid:
Always Carry Pesos: Exchange some money for pesos before your trip, or withdraw cash from a reliable ATM. Avoid airport exchange counters, which often have poor rates.
Use Credit Cards Wisely: While many upscale restaurants, shops, and hotels accept cards, smaller vendors, street food stalls, and markets are usually cash-only.
Download a Currency Conversion App: Use apps like XE Currency to keep track of exchange rates and ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
Tip: Be cautious when using ATMs — stick to machines inside banks or reputable hotels to avoid skimming scams.
5. Skipping Street Food Due to Fear of Getting Sick
Mistake: Missing out on the incredible street food scene because of concerns about hygiene.
How to Avoid:
Follow the Crowds: Eat at stalls that are busy with locals. High turnover usually means the food is fresh and the vendor is trusted.
Observe Cleanliness: Look for stalls where the cook handles food with care, uses utensils, and keeps raw and cooked foods separate.
Start Small: Begin with safer options like tacos, quesadillas, and freshly made tortillas. Avoid raw vegetables or fruit that may have been washed in tap water.
Tip: Bring some over-the-counter stomach remedies like Pepto-Bismol or Imodium, just in case.
6. Only Visiting Tourist Hotspots
Mistake: Sticking solely to major tourist attractions like the Zócalo, Chapultepec Park, and Teotihuacán, and missing out on the local culture and hidden gems.
How to Avoid:
Explore Different Neighborhoods: Check out Roma and Condesa for hipster cafés and street art, Polanco for upscale dining and shopping, and Coyoacán for a bohemian, artsy vibe.
Visit Lesser-Known Museums: Try the Museo Dolores Olmedo for Diego Rivera’s works, or the Museo del Juguete Antiguo México (Antique Toy Museum) for a quirky experience.
Check Out Local Markets: Visit Mercado de San Juan for exotic food items or Mercado de Coyoacán for a more laid-back vibe.
Tip: Take a food or cultural tour with a local guide to discover hidden gems and get insider knowledge.
7. Assuming It’s Always Warm
Mistake: Assuming that Mexico City’s weather is hot year-round and packing only summer clothing.
How to Avoid:
Check the Weather: Mexico City’s high altitude means cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings. During winter (November-February), temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Pack Layers: Bring a mix of lightweight and warm clothing. A light jacket, scarf, and long pants are essential, especially if you plan to visit in the cooler months.
Be Prepared for Rain: The rainy season runs from June to October, with frequent afternoon downpours. Pack an umbrella or rain jacket if traveling during this time.
Tip: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the city’s cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks can be challenging.
8. Not Allocating Enough Time for Museums
Mistake: Rushing through world-class museums like the Museo Nacional de Antropología or the Frida Kahlo Museum in just an hour or two.
How to Avoid:
Plan Half-Days for Major Museums: Set aside at least half a day for large museums like the Anthropology Museum or the Soumaya Museum.
Book Frida Kahlo Tickets in Advance: The Casa Azul (Frida Kahlo Museum) in Coyoacán is one of the city’s most popular attractions, and tickets sell out quickly. Book your spot online to avoid long waits.
Use Guided Tours: Many museums offer guided tours or audio guides. These can enrich your experience and help you appreciate the cultural context.
Tip: The Anthropology Museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
9. Forgetting to Factor in Altitude and Spicy Food
Mistake: Overindulging in spicy foods and alcoholic drinks, not realizing that the combination of high altitude and spice can cause discomfort.
How to Avoid:
Pace Yourself: Mexico City’s high altitude can make alcohol hit harder, and spicy food can exacerbate stomach issues. Start with milder dishes and limit your alcohol intake until you adjust.
Choose Spice Levels Carefully: If you’re not used to spicy food, ask for milder versions and add hot sauce slowly. Use phrases like “poco picante” (a little spicy) when ordering.
Know Your Limits: Avoid the temptation to try every chili-infused dish right away — ease into the local cuisine.
Tip: Keep antacids on hand if you’re sensitive to spicy food.
10. Not Being Cautious with Safety
Mistake: Mexico City is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can be an issue. Not taking basic precautions can increase your risk.
How to Avoid:
Avoid Flashing Valuables: Keep expensive jewelry, cameras, and large amounts of cash out of sight. Use a crossbody bag or money belt to keep your belongings secure.
Stick to Well-Lit, Busy Areas at Night: Avoid poorly lit areas and be cautious when using ATMs. If you’re out late, use a trusted rideshare service like Uber.
Know Where You’re Going: Some neighborhoods are safer than others. Stay in tourist-friendly areas like Roma, Condesa, and Polanco, and be cautious in areas like Tepito and certain parts of Centro Histórico.
Tip: Use apps like Google Maps or Rome2Rio to plan your routes in advance, and always keep your hotel address handy.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.