Bosque de Chapultepec is the largest and most visited urban park in Mexico City.

In an area several times larger than New York's Central Park, you'll find lakes, museums, a zoo, scenic overlooks, jogging trails and the famous Chapultepec Castle.

If you spend at least a few days in Mexico City, you will most likely find yourself here at least once.

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Worth a visit?	Yes
Length of visit	2 hours to a full day
Admission	Park free
Reservations	Not required
Our tip	Combine the castle, the museum and a walk in the park

For locals, it is a place for sports, relaxation and family outings, and for tourists it is one of the most interesting parts of the city.

Unlike most parks, it's not just a green space with a few paths.

It is a popular destination for families with children and sportsmen

Despite its location in the middle of one of the world's largest metropolises, the park has a peaceful feel.

On weekends, it is full of families, joggers, cyclists and street vendors, but on weekdays the atmosphere is much quieter.

For us, it was a pleasant contrast to the bustling historic centre and the traffic chaos of some parts of the city.

What to see and do here?

The park is full of various attractions.

Chapultepec Castle

The most famous landmark in the park is Chapultepec Castle, built on top of a hill overlooking Mexico City.

It is one of the most beautiful historic buildings in the entire country and is definitely worth a visit on its own.

Altare a la Patria

On the main road between Passeo de la Reforma and Chapultepec Castle is the large monument of Altare a la Patria (a similar name is given to this monument in Rome, for example).

It commemorates the Niños Héroes, 6 young soldiers who died in the battle against the USA in 1847 defending Mexico City.

National Museum of Anthropology

One of the best museums in Latin America.

If you are interested in the history of the Aztecs, Maya or other pre-Columbian civilizations, you should not miss it.

Lakes

The liveliest part of the park is around Lago Mayor, where you can rent a boat or just relax in the shade of the trees.

The price of a pedalo is 160 mxn per hour and you can only pay with cash.

Zoo

A popular attraction among local families with children. Traditionally, it is the giant pandas that attract the most attention.

Food and sweets stalls

Practically all the main roads are lined with small stalls selling various sweets and delicacies.

But in several places you will also find large open-air eateries where you can get something local.

Payment is almost always cash only.

How long to reserve?

If you only want to visit the castle and museum, I would allow at least 4 hours.

If you really want to explore the park, have lunch and visit some of the main attractions, count on a full day.

We just did a quick tour of the park and headed to the castle - the walk and visit took us about 2.5 hours.

Practical information

Entrance to the park is free.

Some attractions within the grounds, including the castle or museums, have their own entrance fees and opening times.

• 🕗 5:00-21:00

The easiest access is from Chapultepec or Auditorio metro stations.

There are several fairly well-maintained public toilets across the park, for which you pay 7 mxn (cash only).

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