One Week Central Mexico Itinerary (Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato)

Spending one week in Mexico and wondering where to go and what to do? Here is the perfect Central Mexico itinerary, which covers the beautiful cities of Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, and Mexico City!

When people ask me what my favorite countries to visit are, I always include Mexico. It’s a country I’ve visited many times over the years, drawn to its diverse geography, colorful cities, vibrant culture, and incredible food.

There are so many incredible destinations in Mexico to suit any kind of traveler. There are amazing beach towns, like San Jose del Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, and Sayulita. You have colonial cities, like San Miguel de Allende and Oaxaca. You have mountainous regions, ancient historical cities, and large metropolises. It’s truly a country that has it all.

With only one week in Mexico, you definitely aren’t going to see it all. So when you’re trying to choose where to go with only 7 days in Mexico, what cities do you visit?

This Central Mexico itinerary covers some of the best cities to visit in Mexico, from the sprawling capital of Mexico City, along with the beautiful colonial cities of Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende. 

It’s a fantastic region to visit when you’ve only got limited time, as it’s very accessible to fly in and out of Mexico City, and then easy to travel to the other cities via bus. Add in some incredible attractions, delicious food, and friendly people, and you’ll see why this region of Mexico is so beloved.

Keep on reading for the perfect Central Mexico itinerary, along with super helpful tips for visiting!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase or booking, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Pictures & Words is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliated sites at no cost to you.

Things to Know Before Your 7 Days in Mexico

About this one week in Mexico itinerary

This itinerary covers the following cities in central Mexico:

• 1 day in Guanajuato
• 2 days in San Miguel de Allende
• 2.5 days in Mexico City

Note that the first day of this central Mexico itinerary is meant to be a travel day (going from Mexico City to Guanajuato), and you will fly back home on the 8th day.

One thing to know about Mexico is that it is HUGE. There are so many destinations you could visit, but with only a week you’re going to have to narrow it down.

When we planned this trip, we decided to fly into Mexico City and had only 7 days, so we decided to plan our travels around this. I’d been wanting to visit San Miguel de Allende for a while, so we added it to the itinerary. That gave us only another day or so, so we decided to go to Guanajuato, since it was only an hour away from San Miguel de Allende.

If you have an extra full day, I highly recommend adding on a day trip to Teotihuacan from Mexico City.

While we could’ve potentially visited another city, we opted not to as we wanted to leave ample time to visit the 3 cities and not feel rushed.

Traveling to Mexico

Flying to Mexico City (MEX)

I highly recommend flying in and out of Mexico City for this one week Mexico itinerary, as it has the largest international airport. It’s served by many US carriers and international airlines. You’ll find the best flight options and more direct flights, which tend to be the most affordable as well.

I’ve been to Mexico City 3 times now and all my flights were under $350 coming from California (San Francisco and then Los Angeles). 

This also makes the most sense, since you’ll be ending this itinerary in Mexico City anyway, so you can just hop on a return flight home at the end.

Since Mexico City is such a big city, you’ll find plenty of bus connections and transportation options to the other cities that you’ll visit on this itinerary. It takes about 5 hours via bus to get to Guanajuato.

Flying to Leon (BJX)

If you want to be closer to Guanajuato, the starting point of this itinerary, you can also fly into Leon. 

The Leon/Bajio airport is also referred to as Guanajuato International Airport, and is mainly served by domestic carriers, however there are a number of direct flights offered to and from US cities (including my home airport LAX).

It’s about 30 kilometers outside of the Guanajuato city center. From here, you can take a taxi, Uber, or shuttle bus to get into the city. 

Getting Around in Central Mexico

By Bus

The best way to get around between Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, and Guanajuato is via bus. Coach buses are relatively affordable and very comfortable, and are an ideal way to travel around this area.

There are a number of luxury bus companies that operate in Mexico, but Primera Plus and ETN are considered to be the best ones. 

We took ETN buses, and found it to be super comfortable, and we felt safe the entire time. The seats were super wide, reclined, and had foot rests. The buses also came equipped with personal TV screens, charging ports, and free WiFi. 

Driving

If you prefer, you can also drive and do this itinerary as a road trip. You do get a bit more flexibility, but the buses are so comfortable and easy to use that I really think that they’re the way to go. 

Besides, the traffic in Mexico City can be chaotic and the streets in both San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato tend to be narrow and hilly, so I honestly think that having a car can be somewhat of an annoyance.

If you do decide to drive, you can rent a car at either the Mexico City or Leon airports. For the best rates on cars, I recommend booking on rentalcars.com, which allows you to compare prices from the top car rental companies and offers a price match guarantee. 

Best Time to Visit Central Mexico

Honestly, there’s no bad time to visit this region of Mexico. It never really gets *too* cold or *too* hot here, with average highs topping out around 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and lows averaging between 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit.

November through May is the dry season, when the region sees the least amount of precipitation. December is the chilliest month, but you’ll still see mild temperatures during the day (bring a warm jacket for evenings, though!). May is the warmest month, with the highs averaging around 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

June through October is the rainy season. It rarely rains all day – you’ll likely see an hour or two of rain sometime in the afternoon. However, on our trip, it was perfect weather in Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende, and then we got thunderstorms and torrential downpours every day when we got to Mexico City. It didn’t deter us from exploring, but we did wish we brought an umbrella and rain jacket!

Is Central Mexico safe?

Mexico often gets a bad reputation when it comes to safety, so wondering “is central Mexico safe?” is a valid question.

Yes, there are definitely parts of Mexico that are not safe. However, in reality, Mexico has the same travel advisory as many of the most popular countries in Europe. 

One of my friends was convinced that we were going to get kidnapped and robbed, because of second and third-hand stories she had heard. However, once we arrived, even she admitted that Mexico was much safer than what was portrayed.

Do know that there is a heightened alert for the state of Guanajuato, which is not considered to be safe as a whole. However, even this is not in effect for the tourist destinations of Guanajuato city and San Miguel de Allende, which are generally considered to be safe. 

There is no alert for Mexico City beyond the normal travel advisory for Mexico, however, like any other major city, there are certain neighborhoods that are considered unsafe that you shouldn’t venture into. Also do note that pickpocketing is common so always keep a watch on your belongings (which you should do everywhere, anyway).

That said, you should ALWAYS exercise caution and stay alert! Always take precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and use common sense!

As a group of 3 girls, we felt safe during our entire trip. However, as with any trip, please use caution and common sense – don’t walk around late at night, don’t go anywhere with strangers, don’t drink too much, always watch your surroundings.

More things to keep in mind for Mexico trip…

• Elevation: Each of the 3 cities on this itinerary are at high elevation, between 6000-7000 feet. If you find yourself out of breath, don’t be surprised! Most people should be fine, but those who are sensitive to high altitude should carry some altitude medication.
  
• Don’t drink the tap water: It is not safe to drink the tap water in Mexico. Most tourist frequented accommodations and restaurants serve filtered water, but it doesn’t hurt to ask if you aren’t sure.
  
• Brush up on your Spanish: English isn’t as commonly spoken here as in some other tourist areas of Mexico. This is especially so in Guanajuato, which is not well-known amongst English-speaking tourists. Knowing a little bit of Spanish will go a long way! Brush up on your Spanish on Duolingo, or download Google Translate to help you in a pinch.
  

• Currency + Money: The local currency is the Mexican Peso. With the current exchange rate, 1 Peso is just under 5 cents USD. A conversion I like to keep in my head is that 100 Pesos is around $6 USD. I suggest keeping some cash on hand. Credit cards are widely accepted in touristy-frequented establishments, but you’ll need cash for shopping at markets, street vendors, and smaller restaurants and shops. I suggest taking out cash at an ATM upon arrival. Avoid currency exchange counters, as these have the most unfavorable rates.
  
• Tipping: It is customary to add 10-20% for tips in restaurants (although some establishments include a “propina,” or service charge, so check your bill), and 20-40 pesos ($1-2 USD) per round of drinks.
  
• Wear comfortable shoes: Not only will you be walking a lot, there are lots of cobblestone streets in Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende. Leave the heels at home, and wear comfortable shoes! My favorite travel shoes are from Allbirds and Rothys, and I love my comfy Crocs sandals as well (which are also super stylish!) 

The Perfect One Week Central Mexico Itinerary

DAY 1: Arrival in Mexico City > Guanajuato

Traveling from Mexico City to Guanajuato

The first day of this 7 day Mexico itinerary might be a long travel day, but I prefer to get it out of the way at the beginning of the trip than the end. If you want to break up the travel, you can fly in a day earlier, spend the night in Mexico City, then travel to Guanajuato the next day. 

We left Los Angeles early in the morning, and arrived in Mexico City at noon. Going through immigration and customs was relatively straightforward. We booked a bus to Guanajuato that departed at 4:30pm to give us an extra buffer time in case there were any delays.

This left us with a bit of buffer time, so we decided to have lunch in Roma, which was a nice way to break up our travel day.

Buses to Guanajuato leave out of the Central de Autobuses del Norte station. You can easily take an Uber there from the airport or anywhere in the city. 

The traffic in Mexico City can be horrendous, so give yourself plenty of time in order to get to the bus terminal – at least 3 hours after you land! You’ll also want to give yourself a little bit of time to find your departure gate once you arrive at the station.

The trip to Guanajuato takes about 5 hours, so grab some snacks to eat on the bus. We took an ETN bus and it was super comfortable! The reclining seats were so wide, and came with footrests. There were also personal TVs, outlets, and WiFi. Our ticket cost around $50 USD. 

Arrival in Guanajuato

Depending on what time you arrive, you can have dinner in Guanajuato. However, our bus departed a bit late, so we arrived in Guanajuato around 11pm. 

Do note that the bus station in Guanajuato is located a bit outside of the city center. You’ll have to call an Uber or take a taxi. We noticed that there weren’t very many Ubers available from the bus station (although there are plenty once you’re in the city center), so we took a taxi. There are plenty of taxis that are lined up outside of the bus station. The taxi fare from the bus station to our hotel was 120 pesos. 

We arrived in Guanajuato on a Friday night, and it was so lively! It’s a college town, so there were plenty of people out and about and having a good time. We were able to grab some late night tacos, and fortunately, we couldn’t hear any of the noise from our hotel room.

Where to stay in Guanajuato

• Casona Alonso 10: This is where we stayed, and I highly recommend it! It’s got spacious and comfortable rooms, with elegant decor and art featuring both Mexican and international artists. It’s located in the historic center, but not so central that it’s not so loud and crazy at all hours. It was bustling outside, but we couldn’t hear any of it from our room.
  
• Agua Trece Hotel Fusion: This boutique hotel is tucked into a quiet corner of the historic center, modern rooms, chic decor, and a lovely rooftop terrace with amazing views of the city. 
  
• Hotel Boutique 1850: Housed in a historic building, this boutique hotel features beautifully decorated and spacious rooms, with stylish decor, a rooftop terrace, and a spa. It’s located right in the historic center with beautiful views of the city.

DAY 2: Explore Guanajuato > Travel to San Miguel de Allende

Your first full day of this central Mexico itinerary will be spent exploring the colonial city of Guanajuato. Filled with colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings, Guanajuato is sometimes referred to as “the most beautiful city in Mexico.”

The town once used to be one of the richest silver mining centers in the world, and also played a significant role in the Mexican War of Independence. Because of its historical significance and charm, the entire historic center (and surrounding mines) were named a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Guanajuato is popular with Mexican tourists, but is still relatively unknown amongst foreign visitors. Because of this, I feel like it had a much more authentic vibe than the two other cities I visited on this trip.

Honestly, I didn’t know much about Guanajuato, except I’d seen a photo on Instagram that was taken from the famous viewpoint, and was intrigued. I ended up loving the city, its charming streets, and quaint squares, and ended up wishing I had more time there!

The historic center of Guanajuato is very walkable, so you can easily get from one place to another on foot. Otherwise, Uber does operate and we found it pretty easy to call for a car when we needed one.

Below, I will outline some of the things to check out during your full day in Guanajuato:

Things to Do in Guanajuato

Monumento al Pipila: This is the famous viewpoint that I mentioned earlier. I recommend starting your day here, as it tends to get super busy throughout the day.

Standing on a tall hill overlooking the city, you’ll get an amazing panoramic view over the entire city center, all of its churches, historic buildings, and colorful homes. The view is pretty expansive, and you can see all of the colors extend all up in the hills.

I recommend taking the funicular up to the top for 30 pesos, and then walking back down to town as you’ll walk through some really picturesque streets.

Explore the historic center: Guanajuato’s historic center is full of colorful streets and quaint alleyways that are made for wandering. One of my favorite things to do in Guanajuato was just to get lost in these streets and take a bazillion photos of the colorful facades.

Churches: Guanajuato is home to a number of beautiful churches. The most well known are Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato, with its distinct yellow facade, and Templo de San Francisco, a pretty pink Baroque church.

Plaza de la Paz: Situated in front of the Basilica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato, this bustling plaza boasts a beautiful garden and is surrounded by colonial buildings that house restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops.

Mercado Hidalgo: This bustling marketplace has tons of stalls selling everything from fresh produce, local street food, indigenous herbs, artisan handicrafts, and more. It’s a fantastic place to pick up some souvenirs, as everything is well-priced here, especially compared to San Miguel de Allende and Mexico City.

Universidad de Guanajuato: Guanajuato is a vibrant college town, home to one of the most prestigious universities in Mexico. The campus is also stunning, with gorgeous architecture and dozens of steps, from which you can sit and do some people watching.

Teatro Juarez: This 19th century theater is one of the icons of Guanajuato, and is also known as one of the most beautiful performance theaters in Mexico. The stunning exterior is definitely worth checking out, or you can also tour the inside.

Callejón del Beso: This narrow alley, known as the “Alley of the Kiss,” has a tragic love story reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet. Nowadays, it’s one of Guanajuato’s quirkiest tourist attractions, where lovers go to kiss so they can be blessed with good luck. Snap a photo from street level, or pay a few pesos to go up into the balconies of the souvenir shops here.

Plaza de Los Angeles: One of the most vibrant squares in Guanajuato, with a beautiful garden, colorful buildings, and tons of restaurants.

Jardin de la Union: This beautiful park boasts tons of immaculately manicured trees that provide ample shade, and is surrounded by tons of restaurants and bars.

Plaza San Roque: This quiet plaza is also one of the city’s most charming, surrounded by cute cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, a church, and more.

Museums: If you’re a museum person, Guanajuato has a number of interesting museums, including Museo Iconografico del Quijote (dedicated to Don Quixote), Museo Casa Diego Rivera (the house of Diego Rivera), and the Mummy Museum. The latter is one of the city’s most famous tourist attractions, but do know that it’s not ideal for squeamish types. It’s also located a bit outside the city center, so it might not be the best place to visit if you only have a day in Guanajuato.

Traveling from Guanajuato to San Miguel de Allende

After spending the day exploring Guanajuato, it is time to head to San Miguel de Allende, the next stop on this one week in Mexico itinerary. 

Our bus left the Guanajuato bus station at 6pm. As mentioned earlier, the bus terminal is located a bit outside the city center, so leave plenty of time to get there. I recommend leaving an hour before your bus leaves to ensure you have plenty of time to get to the station, go to the bathroom, and grab some snacks.

The trip to San Miguel de Allende is pretty straightforward, and takes just over an hour. There are also frequent buses traveling in between the two cities.

Do note that the bus station in San Miguel de Allende is located outside of the city center, so you’ll have to take a taxi in order to get to your accommodations. We found taxis lined up outside of the terminal, and it cost us 100 pesos to get to the historic center.

Depending on your time of arrival, you can grab some dinner in San Miguel de Allende. Since it was a Saturday night, we found it to be busy and had trouble getting into a spot without any reservations. We ended up grabbing some tacos from Andy’s Taco Cart (the al pastor tacos were DELICIOUS) and then did some people watching in the main square.

Where to stay in San Miguel de Allende

• Casa Mia Suites: This is where we stayed, and we really enjoyed it! The rooms are super spacious, which was perfect for a group of 3 girls. The location is convenient, a few blocks away from the main square, and rates were super affordable. The rooms have vibrant Mexican decor, and there was a super pretty courtyard that I wish had more time to hang out in.
  
• Hotel Matilda: This is one of the most stylish boutique hotels in town, with a gorgeous pool area, terrace, and modern rooms. The decor pays tribute to Mexican art heritage, and there’s a collection of prominent works on display throughout the property.
  
• Rosewood Hotel: This is arguably the most famous hotel in town, best known for one of the city’s best views from the Luna rooftop bar. If you feel like splurging, you can’t do much better than the Rosewood! The entire grounds are absolutely gorgeous, with a beautiful courtyard and leafy green spaces. The rooms are modern and the service here is impeccable.

DAYS 3-4: Explore San Miguel de Allende

The next 2 days of your Central Mexico itinerary will be spent exploring the charming historical city of San Miguel de Allende. 

San Miguel de Allende had been a place that had been on my bucket list for a long time. After all, it was Mexico’s first Pueblo Magico and has consistently been ranked as one of the best cities in the world.

When I arrived, I fell in love with the quaint cobblestone streets, colorful colonial facades, beautiful old churches, and tree-lined plazas. Every inch of the city feels like a fairytale, and is absolutely photogenic.

The historic center in San Miguel de Allende is fairly compact, and is made for exploring on foot. However, do note that the city is pretty hilly (and you’re at higher elevation) so wear comfy shoes and don’t be surprised if you need a second to catch your breath.

This isn’t the type of destination where you tick off attractions off a giant bucket list. Rather, it’s a city meant for exploring at a more laid-back pace and soaking in its charm. Therefore, I’m leaving you with a list of things to check out, and you can plan your itinerary based on what catches your interest – and be sure to leave some room for wandering!

Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende

Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel: This is the most recognizable landmark in the city, and acts as a focal point of the city. You literally can’t go to San Miguel de Allende and miss this stunning church – it’s visible from many places in the city.

The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel has a pastel pink facade and wedding cake-like spires, which were inspired by the cathedrals of Europe. The church was designed by Zeferino Gutiérrez, an indigenous stonemason who became a self-taught architect.

If you wish, you can spend some time check out the interior of the church. But at the least, spend some time admiring its exterior as it is stunning!

Jardin Allende: Situated directly across from the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, this is the main square in San Miguel de Allende. It’s a fantastic place to do some people watching, as there is a mix of locals, expats, and visitors who hang out here. You’ll also find street vendors, mariachi bands, and perhaps even a wedding party.

Wander the streets: The streets here are so picturesque that one of my highlights was just wandering through them and taking it all in. Be sure to snap a photo on Calle Aldama, where you’ll find a postcard worthy view of the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel and is one of the city’s best photo spots.

Browse the local markets: San Miguel de Allende has a number of local markets, from which you can shop for souvenirs, try some regional cuisine, and get a peek at a slice of local life. Head to Mercado de Artesanias to shop for handicrafts and souvenirs, and Mercado Ignacio Ramirez for produce, street food, and traditional ingredients.

Rooftops: San Miguel de Allende has so many rooftop bars, from which you can sip on a cocktail and enjoy some stunning views. Some of my favorites were Luna at the Rosewood Hotel, Quince, and Trazo 1812. Do note that they are super popular, so reservations are highly recommended.

Admire the view from the Mirador: For a birds-eye view over the entire city, head up to the Mirador. Perched on top of a steep hill, you can see the entire city here, from the iconic Parroquia to the colorful streets. For a good workout, walk here; if you’re lazy, you can take a taxi and then walk back to town (there are some pretty streets and alleyways along the way).  

Fabrica Aurora: Housed in an old textile factory, Fabrica Aurora is a trendy arts and design emporium. You’ll find tons of cool art galleries, antique shops, furniture showrooms, jewelry shops, houseware boutiques, a cafe, and a cool courtyard.

Biblioteca Pública: One of the most beautiful libraries you’ll find! Be sure to check out the ceiling mural in the bookstore, which depicts human bodies in vibrant colors.

Museums: The city is home to a number of interesting museums, including the Mask Museum, Toy Museum, and the Museo de San Miguel de Allende, a history museum housed in the childhood home of Ignacio Allende, a Mexican Independence hero.

La Gruta spa: This mineral spa, known for its thermal bath located in a cavern, is located just outside the city and is a popular attraction. However, we heard mixed reviews so we opted not to go.

Read more: Here’s my ultimate San Miguel de Allende travel guide!

Where to Eat + Drink in San Miguel de Allende

I thought the food in San Miguel de Allende was fantastic, and enjoyed trying all the restaurants and bars around town! If you want to sample all the best places over a few hours, I highly recommend a food tour. Otherwise, I am listing some of my favorite spots below:

Tostevere: This tiny restaurant specializes in creative, modern spins of tostadas and was one of our favorite meals of the trip! Everything is served small plates style, and they have a number of other dishes as well.

Quince: Probably the most popular rooftop in town. I wasn’t expecting much from the food here, but it was actually quite delicious! You also can’t beat the vibes and the views in every direction.

Luna Rooftop: This rooftop is located on top of the Rosewood Hotel and has the best view in town. We only came for drinks here, and it was pricey, but you really can’t beat the view.

Trazo 1812: The presentation here is top-notch, and everything tastes as good as it looked. There are some pretty views from the terrace as well.

Lavanda Cafe: We loved this breakfast spot! You’ll find a tasty variety of breakfast dishes, along with delicious coffee.

Ki’Bok Coffee: Another fantastic breakfast spot with excellent coffee. Try the breakfast enchiladas and bruleed latte here!  

Garambullo: This brunch spot has a variety of dishes made using fresh, wholesome ingredients, and has a pretty patio out back.

Andy’s Taco Cart: The Al Pastor tacos here are an absolute must!

Churreria San Agustin: This popular churro spot is a San Miguel de Allende icon. There’s usually a line for dine-in, but you can also grab your churros to go and eat them in the park across from it.

DAY 5: San Miguel de Allende > Mexico City

After your 2 days in San Miguel de Allende, it’s time to head to the last stop of your Central Mexico itinerary – Mexico City!

Traveling to Mexico City

Start the morning with one last breakfast in San Miguel de Allende, then it’s time for the journey back to Mexico City.

The trip to Mexico City takes around 4 hours by bus. I recommend taking a morning bus, so you arrive in the afternoon. This way, you’ll have a few hours to explore, and have dinner in Mexico City. However, you can also choose to take an afternoon or evening bus if you prefer extra time in San Miguel de Allende.

We left on an ETN bus at 11am, and arrived in Mexico City around 3pm.

Arriving in Mexico City

The bus from San Miguel de Allende arrives at the Central de Autobuses del Norte station, the same one you departed out of on the way to Guanajuato. From here, you can call an Uber to take you to your accommodations in Mexico City. Depending on what time you arrive, there may be traffic, though.

After dropping our bags at the hotel, we decided to explore the Condesa district. This tree-lined, upscale neighborhood has beautiful parks, trendy restaurants, cool boutiques, galleries, hip bars, cafes, and more.

Stroll through the leafy Parque Mexico, one of the most beautiful green spaces in the city, with leafy plazas, walking trails, and bougainvillea vines. You can then pop into some of the shops and galleries in the surrounding streets before grabbing some dinner.

There are many options for dinner in Condesa, from trendy restaurants to casual taco joints. I recommend dining at Lardo, a Mediterranean restaurant with a Mexican twist. Or, you can plan a little DIY taco crawl and stop at Taqueria Orinoco and Tacos Don Juan, two of the best spots in the city.

For a nightcap, stop for a drink at Gin Gin, which has some amazing gin-based cocktails (as the name implies).

Where to Stay in Mexico City

The best neighborhoods to stay in Mexico City are Roma, Condesa, and Polanco. These are considered to be the safest neighborhoods, and also have plenty of dining options. Another option is to stay in Centro Historico, as it has tons of accommodations, but do know it does get a bit crazy there (and is kinda sketchy at night).

Here are some recommendations for where to stay for the last few nights of your one week in Mexico itinerary:

• Casa Decu: This is where we stayed on this trip and we loved it! This cute boutique hotel is located right in the heart of Condesa, with a modern design, comfortable rooms, and a beautiful rooftop deck. We booked a suite for around $200 a night, and it was super spacious and perfect for us three girls!
  
• Casa Lomah : I stayed at this centrally-located boutique hotel when it was called Chaya B&B. The owners have changed, but it’s still got similar vibes and decor. The property is beautifully decorated, with greenery and succulents everywhere, and feels like an oasis in the middle of the bustling historic center.
  
• Hotel Carlota: This trendy  hotel is located in the up-and-coming Colonia Juarez neighborhood, which borders La Condesa and Roma Norte. The hip, design-centric property also features a beautiful courtyard, with a clear pool. There’s also a bar and restaurant, which is known to be delicious (I did not personally have time to eat there, though). The rooms aren’t anything special and can be a bit noisy, but you’re basically staying here for the vibes and the pool.

DAYS 6-7: Mexico City

We’ve reached the last 2 days of this 7 days in Mexico itinerary! These days are going to be jam-packed, with tons to do and see!

Mexico City is the vibrant capital of Mexico, and is full of historic landmarks, unique attractions, cool museums, beautiful green spaces, and amazing food. The city is HUGE and there’s so much to do there – you definitely won’t cover it all in 2.5 days, but it’s a good start!

One thing to note is that Mexico City is very spread out and traffic can be a nightmare, so be sure to add plenty of time to transit between stops. I tried to strategically plan this itinerary so you’ll be as efficient as possible.

I found that Uber is the best way to get around (and is relatively affordable), but if you’re feeling adventurous, the city has a very extensive subway system as well.

Day 6: Historic Center + Coyoacan

MORNING (Centro Historico)

You’ll start off the morning of day 6 in Centro Historico. This is the historic heart of the city, and where you’ll find some of the most iconic attractions in the city. It’s home to several important landmarks, and will give you a good introduction to the city.

Do note that it does get crazy busy here, so get an early start! Also keep a close eye on your stuff, because pickpocketing is unfortunately common here.

Here are some sights to check out in Centro Historico:

• Zocalo: The main square and central gathering place of the city. It’s also where you’ll find the iconic CDMX sign.
• Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana): Latin America’s oldest and largest cathedral, and one of the city’s most beautiful buildings.
• Templo Mayor: Find the ruins of the main temple of the city, back when Mexico City used to be the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan.

• Palacio de Bellas Artes: One of the most iconic buildings in the city, beautiful Art Nouveau exterior boasting a stunning yellow domed roof. Pro tip: The best view of it is from the cafe on the top floor of the Sears department store across the street.
• Palacio Postal: The most beautiful post office you’ll ever find, with a stunning lobby featuring ornate bronze staircases and opulent lampposts.
• Casa de los Azulejos: A former 18th century palace that is adorned with tons of blue azujelos tiles on the exterior.
• Biblioteca Vasconcelos: A futuristic looking library with geometric shelves hanging from above – it looks straight out of a Sci-Fi movie. This one is located a bit further away from the other attractions, so feel free to skip if you’re limited on time.

AFTERNOON (Coyoacan)

After spending the morning checking out the sights of the historic center, head over to the Coyoacan district.

Coyoacan is the artists’ quarter of the city, and filled with charming squares and colorful facades. It was one of my favorite areas of the city, and it’s worth spending a few hours wandering through the streets here.

Start your visit to Coyoacan with a visit to Mercado de Coyoacan, a two-story marketplace selling handicrafts, art clothing, food, and more. It’s a fantastic place to grab a quick lunch, and also to pick up some souvenirs to take home.

Of course, Coyoacan is best known for being the home of Frida Kahlo, and its most famous attraction is the Museo Frida Kahlo. Nicknamed “Casa Azul” for the distinct cobalt blue facade, the museum is dedicated to the life and works of the famous Mexican artist.

It is absolutely necessary to purchase tickets in advance when visiting Museo Frida Kahlo! Tickets sometimes sell out weeks in advance. I’ve seen so many people show up to try to buy tickets at the door, only to get turned away. Don’t be one of those people! 

If you somehow find yourself with extra time, it’s a good time to head to the canals of Xochimilco. Take a ride on one of the colorful trajineras boats and float by as you enjoy snacks, drinks, and mariachi band performances. It’s another 30 minutes from Coyoacan (up to an hour in traffic), but you’re already in the same direction so it’s the ideal time to go if you have time.

If you really want to visit Xochimilco, I recommend booking this guided tour which combines Coyoacan, the Frida Kahlo Museum, and Xochimilco and takes care of all the logistics for you.

EVENING (Dinner + Lucha Libre)

After exploring Coyoacan, head back to Centro Historico for dinner at Azul. Located in the courtyard of a historic building, you’ll enjoy traditional cuisine from various regions in Mexico in a gorgeous atmosphere, beneath a canopy of trees and twinkling lights.

If you’re in Mexico City on a Tuesday, Friday, or Sunday, this is the perfect opportunity to catch some Lucha Libre! It’s Mexican wrestling, but it’s much more than that. You’ll see the luchadores wearing colorful masks and costumes, and put on what is more like a highly theatrical performance.

The best and easiest way to experience Lucha Libre is to book a tour. You can even book a tour that includes a mezcal and taco tasting (yum!) or a Mariachi dance party (so fun)!

DAY 7: Chapultepec Park + Polanco

MORNING (Chapultepec Park + Luis Barragan)

It’s the last day of your 7 days in Mexico! Start off your day by grabbing a quick breakfast. I highly recommend stopping by Panaderia Rosetta in the Roma neighborhood for a delicious pastry (try the guava roll!) and some coffee.

Then, head on over to Chapultepec Park. At 1600 acres, it’s one of the largest urban parks in the Western Hemisphere. It’s sometimes referred to as the Central Park of Mexico, but it’s actually twice the size of the Central Park in NYC!

The park boasts a wide array of activities and attractions, from a zoo, museums, historical monuments, cultural exhibits, a lake, a botanical garden, an amusement park, an archaeological site, and more. 

Since you have limited time, you definitely won’t see it all, but at the very least, head over to Chapultepec Castle, which is the only castle in North America to have housed actual sovereigns.  

It’s located on a hill at the highest point in the park, which means you’ll see some spectacular views of the city down below. It’s also the home of the National History Museum, and has some beautiful, ornate rooms with various history exhibits.

Afterwards, I recommend checking out one of the works of Luis Barragan: Casa Giraldi or Casa Luis Barragan. Barragan is a contemporary architectural legend, known for his colorful and geometric style, and renowned for his use of light and reflection to manipulate a space.

You can find his works scattered all over the city, but his two most famous buildings are Casa Giraldi and Casa Luis Barragan. Do note that you’ll need to make a reservation to see them, and they go pretty fast so be sure to book in advance!

Alternatively, you can continue to explore Chapultepec Park and check out some of its museums, including the National Anthropology Museum or the Museum of Modern Art.

AFTERNOON (Polanco)

For lunch, I recommend dining at Expendio de Maiz Sin Nombre, located relatively close to the park and where you’ll find one of the most unique dining experiences in the city.

There’s no menu here. They serve whatever the kitchen has cooked up for the day. Each round consists of one vegetarian and one meat dish. They’ll keep sending out dishes until you say you’re full (for up to 5 rounds). 

It’s kind of a unique spin on an omakase menu. Each dish was super creative, all centered around a tortilla base. It’s also relatively affordable, with each plate costing between 100-150 pesos.

Then, head on over to explore Polanco, known as the “Beverly Hills” of Mexico City. You’ll find high-end luxury boutiques, fine dining restaurants, and a number of acclaimed museums. It’s fun to walk down the streets here and be among the city’s wealthiest and most stylish!

Here are some things to check out in Polanco:

• Mexico Mi Amor Wall: The perfect photo spot to commemorate your Mexico trip! It stands in front of Tane 1942, a jewelry shop located on Polanco’s main drag. 
• Cafebreria El Pendulo: This mini chain of bookstore cafes has several locations in the city, but the one in Polanco is the prettiest.

• Museo Soumaya: This museum is housed inside one of the city’s most distinctive buildings and boasts a collection of over 66,000 works of Latin and European art that spans over 30 centuries.
• Museo Jumex: Located across from Museo Soumaya, it also houses a large donated art collection, with an extensive collection of contemporary works from acclaimed artists, such as Gabriel Orozco, Francis Alys and Andy Warhol. 
• Churreria El Morro: This is Mexico City’s most famous churreria, with locations all over the city. The one in Polanco might be my favorite, because it’s spacious, modern, airy, and clean (while some of the other locations are starting to show their age).

EVENING (Dinner at Pujol)

Since you’ll already be in Polanco, end your day with a special dinner at Pujol, one of Mexico City’s most renowned restaurants. 

Pujol has consistently been ranked as one of the world’s best restaurants, and chef Enrique Olvera has received many accolades for putting a modern, sophisticated twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. 

Yes, it’s a splurge – the 6 course tasting menu costs 2565 pesos or around $150 USD – but it is a special experience!

If you’re in the mood for a post-dinner cocktail, I recommend heading to Handshake, which is ranked #3 of the World’s Best Bars. 

Hidden inside a hotel in the Colonia Juarez neighborhood, you’ll find a menu full of creative and well-made cocktails. Reservations are an absolute must to sit in the main bar, which is a special experience. However, if you don’t have a reservation (we didn’t), there’s a satellite bar that serves the same menu.

Read More: Here’s my guide on how to plan the perfect 3 day Mexico City itinerary!

Have an extra day? Take a day trip to Teotihuacan!

I know this itinerary is for 7 days in Mexico. But, if you have a day to spare, I highly recommend taking a day trip to the pyramids of Teotihuacan!

Teotihuacan was once the largest pre-Aztec civilization in the Americas, and is located only an hour outside of Mexico City. These 2000 year old pyramids were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is one of the most unique sights in the area.

I highly recommend getting an early start on your day trip to Teotihuacan, as it gets pretty busy and hot as the day goes on.

Getting to Teotihuacan is relatively easy. Taking the bus there is affordable and fairly straightforward. Simply head to the Central de Autobuses del Norte station again and head to Puerta 8 where you’ll find the Autobuses Teotihuacan booth. Buses leave every 15-20 minutes and tickets cost 100 pesos (~$6 USD).

If you don’t feel like figuring out the details yourself, you can also take an organized tour. For a special experience, you can even take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the pyramids. If you don’t feel like waking up super early, this is a highly rated small group day tour.

The main highlight at Teotihuacan is the Pyramid of the Sun (Pirámide del Sol). At 70 meters tall, it is one of the tallest pyramids in the world. You used to be able to climb on top of it, but it is no longer allowed. Still, it is pretty cool to see the grand scale of it because it is MASSIVE!

Another one of the main sights here is the Pyramid of the Moon. At 45 meters tall, it is the second tallest pyramid in Teotihuacan. 

Be sure to also stop at La Gruta for lunch, as you’ll get the unique experience of dining inside a cave.

Have you ever been to Central Mexico? What would be one your one week Mexico itinerary?

More Mexico content you may enjoy:
The Perfect 3 Days in Mexico City Itinerary
Magical Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende
Beautiful San Miguel de Allende Photo Spots
Where to Eat in Mexico City

Liked this post? Save this 7 day Mexico itinerary to Pinterest for later!