Mexico City
The best street tacos we have EVER had from Taco si Hay
Mexico City is a feast for the senses, and nothing captures that better than eating street tacos. Hunt down taquerías and street stands in neighborhoods like Condesa, Roma, Centro Histórico, and the taquerías around Mercado de San Juan; try classics like al pastor, suadero, and campechano, and don’t be shy about asking for salsa recommendations. Look for stands with a steady local crowd, grab tacos on warm corn tortillas, top them with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime, and pair them with a freshly made agua fresca or a cold beer.
For a night of high-energy theater and local color, catch a lucha libre wrestling match at Arena México or Arena Coliseo. Lucha libre is part sport, part spectacle—masked wrestlers, dramatic entrances, and enthusiastic crowds create an unforgettable atmosphere. Buy tickets in advance for main events, arrive early to soak in the pageantry, and bring cash for snacks and souvenirs sold in the stands.
Coyoacán market (Mercado de Coyoacán) is a must for culture, crafts, and food in a bohemian neighborhood rich with history. Wander the plazas, browse stalls selling handmade textiles, jewelry, and folk art, and sample local specialties—quesadillas, tostadas, churros, and churros with chocolate or atole. Combine a market visit with time at Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul, a stroll through the leafy, colonial streets, and a coffee at a nearby café to absorb the neighborhood vibe.
For a colorful daytime escape, take a trajinera boat ride through Xochimilco’s canals. These gondola-like boats, often decked with flowers and music, ply the ancient waterways where vendors sell food, drinks, and mariachi performances float between boats. Book a private trajinera for groups or share one to cut costs; mornings and weekdays are quieter, while evenings and weekends are livelier. Combine Xochimilco with a visit to nearby chinampa gardens or the Dolores Olmedo Museum for a fuller day out.
Practical tips: carry cash (small bills), learn a few Spanish phrases, stay aware of pickpocketing hotspots, and use authorized vendors or tour operators for experiences like Xochimilco or lucha libre. With a mix of street food, lively entertainment, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant canals, Mexico City rewards curiosity and an appetite for adventure.