Mexico City surprised me more than any other city in Latin America.

I’d expected a chaotic and somewhat dangerous megacity, but instead I discovered a fascinating mix of colonial palaces, modern neighbourhoods, world-class cuisine, a thousand years of Aztec history and vibrant street life.

Whether you’re heading here for a few days or just using Mexico City as a stopover before travelling further into Mexico, you’ll find everything from iconic landmarks and museums to colourful markets and some of the best bars and restaurants in the world.

In this guide, you’ll find my own experiences, practical tips and advice on safe areas.

Locals often use the abbreviation CDMX (from the Spanish name ‘Ciudad de México’) to refer to the city.

The 10 best hotels in CDMX by location