So you’ve decided to Solo Travel Mexico City. Kudos to you! This sprawling metropolis has so much to offer the intrepid traveler looking to get off the beaten path. As a frequent solo traveler myself, I know how daunting it can feel at first. But with some insider tips from someone who has navigated the Distrito Federal, you’ll feel like a chilango in no time. From the best street eats to the hidden gems, this guide will set you up for an unforgettable trip you’ll be talking about for years to come. Solo travel in CDMX is incredibly rewarding if you go in with the right mindset – open, curious and ready for adventure around every corner. Follow these 15 tips and you’ll be sipping mezcal, chatting up locals and soaking in the vibrant culture before you know it! The city is yours to discover – buen viaje! 

Do Your Research Before You Solo Travel Mexico City

Before you head to Solo Travel Mexico City, do some research to make the most of your solo adventure. 

Check travel advisories to understand any areas to avoid. As in any large city, be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-populated streets at night and don’t display valuables. 

Learn some basic Spanish phrases. While many locals in Mexico City speak English, knowing greetings, please/thank you, and how to ask for help will make you feel more at ease exploring on your own. 

Decide what you want to see. Mexico City has everything from historic cathedrals to world-class museums to Aztec ruins. Make a list of must-sees like the Zocalo, Frida Kahlo’s House, and Teotihuacan so you can plan your itinerary. 

Book a centrally located hotel. As a solo traveler, staying near the action in neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa or Polanco lets you walk between sites and the hotel easily. You’ll feel safer and save on taxis. 

Do a free walking tour. An easy way to get oriented in a new city is joining a walking tour. You’ll learn about the history and culture while seeing major landmarks. Tours are a chance to meet other travelers too. 

With the right planning and awareness, Mexico City can be an incredibly rewarding solo trip. Do your homework, learn some key phrases, choose what interests you most, get a central hotel, and take a walking tour. Now you’re ready to explore this colorful capital on your own! 

Stay in a Centrally Located Neighborhood 

To make the most of your Solo Travel Mexico City, stay in one of the centrally located neighborhoods. This will allow you to explore the city by foot and public transit, saving time and money. 

Two of the best areas are Roma and Condesa, with charming tree-lined streets, cafes, nightlife and proximity to major attractions. You’ll feel like a local in no time. Stay in an Airbnb or budget-friendly hotel, with rates from $30 to $100 a night. 

Polanco is an upscale area with luxury hotels, high-end restaurants and shopping. While pricier, it’s still affordable compared to US and European cities. You’ll be walking distance from Chapultepec Park, a sprawling urban oasis. 

Downtown (Centro Histórico) is ideal for history buffs, with stunning colonial architecture, archeological sites and museums at your doorstep. Accommodation ranges from boutique hotels to hostels. Wake up to the sounds of the city coming alive! 

Coyoacán and San Ángel also offer a charming small-town vibe with cobblestone streets, colorful houses and a lively main plaza. They’re a bit farther from the city center but still easily accessible. 

No matter which barrio you choose, you’ll have an authentic experience in one of the world’s great cities. Get out there and explore – the heart of Mexico City awaits! Solo travel here is safe, affordable and the adventure of a lifetime. 

Use Uber and Metro to Get Around 

Getting around Mexico City is easy once you figure out the transportation options. The two best ways for solo travelers to navigate the city are: 

Use Uber for Short Trips 

Uber is readily available in Mexico City and perfect for short trips around town. Fares are very affordable, often only a few dollars. Uber drivers usually don’t speak much English, so have your destination address handy to show the driver. Uber is ideal if you want to avoid crowded metro trains or don’t know which bus to take. 

Take the Metro for Longer Distances 

Mexico City’s metro system is extensive, covering most of the city. It’s fast, frequent, and cheap. Buy a rechargeable metro card to ride the trains and some busses. The metro can get very crowded during rush hour, so watch your belongings. It’s best for solo travelers to ride in the first train car with the driver or in designated women’s only cars. 

The metro does have its challenges, including long walks between lines, few escalators, and limited signage in English. But with some patience, you’ll get the hang of it. Some tips: 

• Study the metro map ahead of time to understand the layout before you go. 
• Ask for help from metro staff if you get confused. Many speak English and are happy to assist travelers. 
• Have small bills and coins handy to pay your fare. Fares range from 3 to 5 pesos per ride. 
• Be alert for pickpockets, especially when trains are crowded. Carry only copies of key documents. 
• Consider getting a Mexico City tourist pass like the Turibus, which includes unlimited metro and bus use. 

With affordable fares, extensive routes, and frequent service, Uber and the Mexico City metro provide an easy way for solo visitors to get around this huge metropolis. Master these transit systems and you’ll gain independence to explore the city at your own pace. 

Visit Popular Sites Early 

To beat the crowds at Mexico City’s popular tourist attractions, get an early start. Some spots are best visited first thing in the morning before the tour busses arrive. 

Visit the Historic Center 

The Historic Center, or Centro Histórico, fills up fast, so head there early. Walk around the central square, the Zócalo, and grab breakfast at one of the cafes with outdoor patios facing the square. Then visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, Templo Mayor Aztec ruins, and Palacio de Bellas Artes opera house right as they open. 

• The Zócalo is the heart of Mexico City, with Aztec ruins, Spanish colonial architecture and modern buildings all around the massive central plaza. 
• The Metropolitan Cathedral is the largest cathedral in the Americas. Climb to the top of the bell towers for panoramic views of the city. 
• The Templo Mayor Aztec ruins contain relics of the ancient Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan. The on-site museum displays Aztec artifacts like giant stone serpent heads. 

Teotihuacan Pyramids 

The ancient city of Teotihuacan is about an hour from Mexico City. Get there when the site opens to experience the Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon without big crowds. Climb to the top of the Pyramid of the Sun, the third largest pyramid in the world, for a breathtaking view of the ancient city. 

• Teotihuacan was one of the largest cities in the pre-Columbian Americas, with a population of over 150,000 at its peak. 
• The Pyramid of the Sun is 216 feet high, roughly the same height as a 20-story building. Climb the 248 steps to the top for panoramic views of the city’s ruins. 

By starting your sightseeing early, you’ll get the most out of your time exploring Mexico City’s cultural treasures without having to navigate around hordes of other visitors. An early rise is worth it for a magical morning walking around the empty Zócalo or gazing out from atop the Pyramid of the Sun. 

Eat at Outdoor Cafes and Food Stalls 

One of the best ways to experience Mexico City’s vibrant food scene is by eating at the city’s outdoor cafes and food stalls. 

Street Food 

Mexico City is known for its delicious street food. You’ll find vendors selling everything from tacos and tortas to churros and elotes. Some must-try options include: 

• Tacos al pastor – Spit-roasted pork tacos, a Mexico City staple. 
• Quesadillas and sopes – Corn or flour tortillas topped with meats, cheese, and veggies. 
• Churros – Fried-dough pastry sticks dusted with cinnamon sugar. 
• Elote – Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder. 

Outdoor Cafes 

For a more relaxed meal, head to one of the city’s charming outdoor cafes. Some recommendations: 

• Cafe de Tacuba – Open since 1912, serving traditional Mexican fare and drinks in a historic setting. 
• Azul Historico – Upscale restaurant featuring pre-Hispanic inspired cuisine with courtyard seating. 
• Lalo! – Hip cafe using high-quality, organic ingredients for brunch, lunch and dinner. Great for people watching. 

Eating al fresco is one of the simple pleasures of Solo Travel Mexico City. Savoring delicious food and drinks while soaking in the atmosphere of the city’s vibrant streets is an experience you won’t soon forget. Head to the historic center, Condesa, Roma or Polanco neighborhoods for lots of great outdoor dining options. And don’t forget, in Mexico City, dinner often isn’t served until 9 pm, so take your time! Enjoy a leisurely lunch, do some exploring, then find a perfect spot to watch the sunset and enjoy an evening meal under the stars. 

Take Free Walking Tours 

Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours 

One of the best ways to explore Mexico City on a budget is through free walking tours. Local guides offer tours through different neighborhoods and themes, sharing history, culture, stories, and recommendations along the way. These tours are a perfect introduction to the city and a chance to get your bearings. 

Several companies like Mexico City Free Walking Tours and Estacion Mexico offer tours on a donation basis. You can join tours of historic city centers, murals, architecture, markets and more. The guides are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about their city. At the end of the tour, you can tip what you feel is appropriate based on the quality of the tour. 

These walking explorations are ideal for solo visitors and an easy way to meet other travelers with similar interests. You may even find a new friend or two to continue discovering the city with after the tour wraps up! The guides can also suggest other activities and destinations to add to your own adventure. 

Rather than trying to figure out the city on your own with a map in hand, take a stroll through the streets with an expert guide. Learn about the history, culture, food, and daily life in Mexico City from a local’s perspective. You’ll gain valuable insights and recommendations to help you make the most of your trip. And the best part—it’s free! What do you have to lose? Lace up your walking shoes and sign up for a memorable tour. Your feet and your mind will thank you. 

Check Out the Amazing Museums 

Mexico City has some of the best museums in the world, housing artifacts from the ancient Aztec civilization as well as contemporary art. You should definitely check out a few during your solo trip. 

National Museum of Anthropology 

This is Mexico’s most visited museum and a must-see. It contains artifacts from Mexico’s pre-Hispanic heritage, including the Aztec Sun Stone and replicas of Mayan monuments. You’ll gain insight into the ancient cultures that shaped Mexico’s history. 

Frida Kahlo Museum 

Visit the colorful home where the famous artist Frida Kahlo lived and worked. Her residence, known as the Blue House, has been preserved as a museum in her honor. You’ll see her art, personal belongings, and the studio where she created many of her masterpieces. It’s a very intimate look into her life. 

Soumaya Museum 

This art museum has a stunning architectural design and houses billionaire Carlos Slim’s art collection, including many European works of art. Admission is always free, so you can pop in and view famous pieces by Rodin, Dalí, and others. They have a bit of everything, from Greek sculptures to contemporary art. 

Palace of Fine Arts 

Even if you don’t catch a performance, the Palace of Fine Arts is worth visiting just to see the opulent architecture. It’s considered one of Mexico’s most beautiful buildings. You can take a guided tour to learn about its history and design. Don’t miss the massive murals by famous Mexican artist Diego Rivera. 

Mexico City’s museums offer a glimpse into the city’s rich culture, history, and art. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore—you’ll want to spend hours discovering all these world-class institutions have to offer. 

Stroll Through Chapultepec Park 

Explore the Largest City Park in Latin America 

Chapultepec Park is one of the largest city parks in the Western Hemisphere, covering more than 1,700 acres. There are so many things to do in this urban oasis, you could easily spend an entire day exploring. 

As a solo traveler, the park is a perfect place to enjoy some downtime surrounded by nature. Find a quiet spot to sit and read a book, go for a stroll along the many walking paths, or rent a rowboat to paddle around Lake Chapultepec. On Sundays, the park’s main road is closed to vehicle traffic so you can cycle, jog or just wander freely. 

• Visit Castillo de Chapultepec, the only royal castle in North America. Climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city. 
• Check out the National Museum of Anthropology, a world-class museum housing artifacts from Mexico’s pre-Hispanic civilizations. 
• See rare plants and flowers from around the world at the Chapultepec Botanical Garden. 
• People watch at the park’s central plaza or catch an outdoor concert at the bandstand. 

No matter what you end up doing, Chapultepec Park is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City. Spend as much or as little time as you like—there’s something for everyone in this urban oasis. Just go at your own pace and enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by nature. 

Shop at Unique Markets 

Mexico City has some of the best markets for finding unique souvenirs and gifts. Check out these spots for some retail therapy with a side of culture. 

Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela 

This historic market has been around since the 1920s and features handcrafted goods from all over Mexico. You’ll find everything from pottery and glassware to clothing, jewelry and decorative items. Be prepared to haggle for the best deals. The market is open every day of the week and is a great place to pick up souvenirs. 

Mercado de Jamaica 

If you want to experience an authentic Mexican market, head to Mercado de Jamaica. This massive market sells flowers, produce, meat, spices and more. It’s a feast for the senses, with vibrant colors and smells around every corner. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth visiting just to soak in the atmosphere. The market is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm. 

Mercado Sonora 

For an eclectic mix, check out Mercado Sonora, also known as the Witchcraft Market. You’ll find everything from potions and candles to Santeria figurines and amulets. It’s a fascinating look into Mexican spiritual culture and beliefs. The market is open every day except Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm. 

• Look for handcrafted goods like pottery, textiles, jewelry and wood carvings. 
• Haggle politely to get the best price. A good rule of thumb is offering half of the asking price. 
• Be aware of your belongings in crowded markets. Carry only what you need and watch out for pickpockets. 
• Take cash out before shopping since not all vendors accept cards. 

Exploring Mexico City’s markets is a great way to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gain insight into the local culture. With so many options, you’re sure to stumble upon something unique that sparks your interest. Happy shopping! 

Try Authentic Mexican Cuisine 

No Solo Travel Mexico City is complete without sampling the amazing food. As a solo traveler, you have the freedom to explore the culinary scene at your own pace. Here are some tips to experience authentic Mexican cuisine: 

Street food is safe and delicious 

Don’t be afraid to eat from street vendors and markets. The food is fresh and hygienic, and you’ll find locals lining up for their favorite tacos and tortas. Some must-tries include: 

• Tacos al pastor – Spit-roasted pork tacos, a Mexico City staple. 
• Quesadillas and sopes – Corn or flour tortillas topped with meats, cheese, and veggies. 
• Churros – Fried-dough pastry sticks dusted with cinnamon sugar. Perfect for dipping in hot chocolate! 

Visit a traditional mercado 

Wander through a bustling mercado like Mercado de San Juan or Mercado de la Merced. You’ll find mounds of chiles, avocados, tropical fruits and spices. Grab a jugo verde (green juice) or michelada (beer cocktail) and some street food for a cheap, authentic meal. The markets are also great for souvenir shopping. 

Take a food tour 

A guided food tour is a tasty way to explore the culinary scene with a local expert. You’ll visit hidden gems and learn about regional cuisines and the history of Mexican food. Many tours focus on street food, mezcal and tequila, or Mexican chocolate. Private and group tours are available to suit your needs as a solo traveler. 

Mezcal is Mexico’s national spirit 

Forget tequila – mezcal is the new “it” drink. Made from agave, mezcal has an smoky, complex flavor. Visit a mezcaleria to sample different varieties. If you find one you love, you can buy a bottle to enjoy during your trip or bring home. Salud! 

Stay Safe: Avoid Scams and Theft 

Mexico City is generally very safe for solo travelers if you exercise caution, but scams and petty theft do exist. Be aware of your surroundings, don’t display valuables, and avoid unsafe areas of the city. 

Avoid ATM scams 

Only use ATMs inside banks or large retail stores, not standalone machines. Thieves sometimes attach card skimmers or install hidden cameras to steal your PIN. – Never let anyone “help” you at an ATM or see your PIN. Politely decline assistance and find another machine. 

Watch out for pickpockets 

Pickpocketing is common on crowded metro trains, busses and tourist spots. – Carry only copies of your important documents and a limited amount of cash. – Keep bags closed and secured, and don’t leave them unattended. – Be wary of unsolicited physical contact like bumping, spilling a drink on you or crowding you. This could be a distraction to steal your belongings. 

Don’t take unlicensed taxis 

Only use taxis from authorized taxi stands or call a radio taxi service to avoid robberies or assaults. – Don’t get into taxis that solicit customers. – Write down the taxi details like number, company name and driver details in case of any issues. – Don’t share a taxi with strangers. 

Stay in safe accommodations 

Choose a hotel or hostel in a good location with 24-hour security. – Lock all doors and windows when leaving your room or sleeping. – Don’t leave valuables unattended in common areas. – Consider using the in-room safe if available. 

By taking normal travel safety precautions, you can thoroughly enjoy exploring Mexico City without worry. But if you do encounter any trouble, don’t hesitate to contact the local authorities for help right away. Have a great trip! 

Meet Other Solo Travelers 

Connect with other solo travelers during your Solo Travel Mexico City

During your Solo Travel Mexico City, one of the best ways to combat loneliness and make new friends is by connecting with other solo travelers. Here are a few tips to help you meet other independent explorers: 

-Stay at hostels. Hostels are popular with solo travelers on a budget. You’ll likely meet people in the common areas and dorm rooms. Some hostels organize social events and group outings which are perfect for mingling. 

-Join free walking tours. Walking tours are a great way to get oriented in a new city and meet fellow travelers. Strike up a conversation with someone on the tour and suggest grabbing lunch or a drink together after. 

-Check out Couchsurfing events. Couchsurfing is a popular hospitality exchange network used by many solo travelers. They organize weekly meetups, socials, and other events in Mexico City which provide an instant opportunity to connect with like-minded explorers. 

-Eat at communal tables. Look for restaurants with long, shared tables. Sit down next to someone eating alone and start a conversation. Travel is a perfect ice breaker and you never know, you may end up exploring the city together! 

-Use apps to connect. Apps like Tourlina and Hey! VINA can help solo female travelers connect. Bumble BFF and Meetup also have options for finding travel buddies and new friends with similar interests. 

Putting yourself in social situations and striking up conversations with other travelers is the key to building new friendships on the road. While solo travel has its perks, sharing experiences with others can make exploring Mexico City even more memorable. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself—you never know what new friendships may form! 

Learn Basic Spanish Phrases 

Learn Some Key Phrases 

While you are in your Solo Travel Mexico City, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way. Even just saying “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me”—“por favor,” “gracias,” and “perdón”—will be greatly appreciated by locals. 

Other useful phrases include: 

• “¿Hablas inglés?” (Do you speak English?) 
• “¿Dónde está…?” (Where is…?) 
• “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much does this cost?) 
• “¿Puede hablar más despacio?” (Can you speak more slowly?) 

Carry a small Spanish phrasebook or dictionary with you, or download a translation app on your phone. Don’t be afraid to politely ask locals “¿Puede hablar más despacio?” if you need them to slow down. Most Mexicans will appreciate your effort in trying to communicate in their native language. 

When exploring the Solo Travel Mexico City, be extra vigilant about your belongings in crowded places like markets, metro stations and tourist attractions. Mexico City is generally very safe, but petty crimes do happen, especially if you appear distracted. Stay alert, don’t display valuables, and consider using a money belt under your clothing to store cash, cards and your passport. 

Solo Travel Mexico City can be an incredibly rewarding experience. By learning some basic Spanish, exercising caution, and immersing yourself in the local culture, you’ll feel comfortable navigating this fascinating city on your own. Don’t be afraid to start up a conversation with someone sitting next to you at a cafe or in a park. Mexicans are very friendly and welcoming to visitors. You may just make a new friend! 

Don’t Miss the Color and Culture 

Experience the Vibrant Culture During Your Solo Travel Mexico City

Mexico City is a cultural mecca, with opportunities around every corner to experience the color and spirit of Mexico. 

As you wander the streets, you’ll stumble upon impromptu dance performances, colorful murals, and melodic mariachi music. Make time to explore some of the city’s many museums, like the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Museum of Anthropology, which house artifacts from Mexico’s rich history. For a taste of Mexico City’s cultural heart, head to Plaza Garibaldi to hear passionate mariachi singers, or catch a lucha libre wrestling match at Arena Mexico. 

• Attend a show at the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico City’s opulent opera house. You might see ballet folklorico, a traditional Mexican dance performance. 
• Check out the Diego Rivera murals at the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Secretaría de Educación Pública. Rivera’s striking murals depict Mexico’s history and culture. 
• Wander through the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with colonial architecture, cathedrals, and shopping. 
• Catch a soccer match at the massive Estadio Azteca. Mexicans are passionate about fútbol, and the energy in the stadium is electric. 

Mexico City will captivate you with its vibrant culture, color, and joie de vivre. No trip to the city is complete without immersing yourself in the music, art, dance, and history that make Mexico City’s culture so rich. Open your senses and dive right in. You won’t regret it! 

FAQ: Key Things to Know Before Your Solo Travel Mexico City

Do I need to know Spanish? 

While knowing some basic Spanish phrases will help you get around, many Mexicans in Mexico City speak English, especially those working in tourism. Don’t be afraid to ask if someone speaks English. Many signs are also in English and Spanish. If you get stuck, show someone the address or name of where you want to go. 

Is Mexico City safe for solo female travelers? 

Exercise caution as you would in any large city. Avoid unlit, deserted areas at night, don’t display valuables, and be wary of pickpocketing in crowded areas. However, many solo female travelers visit Mexico City and have a safe trip by taking normal precautions. The city has a family-friendly culture, and catcalling and harassment are less common than in some other Latin American cities. 

How do I get around? 

Mexico City has an extensive public transit system, including busses, metro trains, and Metrobus lines. Buy a rechargeable Metro/Metrobus card to ride the metro, Metrobus, and some busses. Taxis and rideshares are also convenient options, especially at night. Negotiate taxi fares upfront or use taxi apps like Uber to avoid getting overcharged. 

Where should I stay? 

For your first visit, stay in the central neighborhoods of Juarez, Roma, Condesa or Polanco. These areas have lots of hotels, restaurants, and nightlife and are close to many attractions. Look for hotels with 24-hour front desk, secure entry, and possibly airport shuttle service. Hostels are also good for solo travelers on a budget and often organize social events and tours. 

What should I pack? 

Mexico City has a temperate climate, so pack a mix of clothing for warm and cool weather. Essentials include: comfortable walking shoes, lightweight layers, a jacket, sunglasses, a day bag, chargers, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and any important medicines. For women, pack a scarf to use as a shawl in churches. 

Conclusion 

So there you have it, 15 tips to help you navigate Mexico City as a solo traveler. With an open mind, sense of adventure, and by following these tips, you’ll be conquering the capital city in no time. The delicious food, stunning architecture, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife are waiting to be explored. Don’t be afraid to get lost wandering the streets, stumble upon hidden gems, and strike up a conversation with a local. Solo travel in this eclectic city will create memories that last a lifetime. What are you waiting for? Book that ticket and experience all that Mexico City has to offer on your own terms. The adventure awaits!