15 Best Things to Do in Centro Mexico City
Wondering what are the best things to do in Centro? Here’s your ultimate guie to Mexico City’s most bustling neighborhood!
Centro Mexico City is the historic heart of one of the world’s largest metropolitan areas, where centuries of history meet vibrant street life.
The neighborhood sits on the ancient grounds of the Aztec capital and evolved into the colonial center that still defines much of the city’s identity today. I find it’s one of those rare places where you can walk from pre-Hispanic ruins to baroque cathedrals to modern art spaces all within a few blocks.
The area offers an incredible mix of historical landmarks, cultural institutions, street food scenes, and public spaces that give you a real sense of what makes Mexico City special.
I’ve spent time exploring everything from the grand plazas and colonial architecture to the hidden galleries and local markets tucked into the side streets. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, art, food, or just soaking up the atmosphere, Centro has options that work for different interests and energy levels.
15 Best Things to Do in Centro Mexico City
1) Explore the Zócalo, Mexico City’s massive main square
I always start my Centro visits at the Zócalo, officially called Plaza de la Constitución. This massive square is one of the largest public plazas in the world and serves as the city’s beating heart.
The plaza sits on what was once the ceremonial center of the Aztec capital. Now it’s surrounded by some of Mexico City’s most important buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace.
I love watching the scene unfold here throughout the day. Street performers entertain crowds while vendors sell snacks and souvenirs. The Mexican flag ceremony at sunrise and sunset is particularly impressive.
The Zócalo hosts everything from political rallies to cultural festivals. I’ve seen massive Day of the Dead altars and holiday ice skating rinks set up here depending on the season.
2) Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral
I always make sure to visit the Metropolitan Cathedral when I’m in Centro. It sits right on the Zócalo and is one of those buildings that just commands your attention.
The cathedral took centuries to complete, and you can see different architectural styles blended together throughout its facade. I find the baroque details particularly impressive.
Inside, the scale is massive. There are multiple chapels, ornate altars, and artwork spanning the colonial period. The craftsmanship in the woodwork and stonework is something I appreciate every time I walk through.
The cathedral has sunk slightly over the years due to the soft ground beneath Mexico City. You can actually notice the uneven floors in some areas, which adds another interesting element to the visit.
3) Eat tacos at Taco Tasting Room
I always make a point to stop by Taco Tasting Room when I’m exploring Centro. This spot takes a more curated approach to tacos compared to typical street stands.
The menu rotates based on what’s fresh and available. I’ve tried everything from classic al pastor to more creative combinations that still respect traditional flavors. The portions are reasonable, which means I can sample multiple varieties without feeling too full.
What sets this place apart is the attention to detail in each taco. The tortillas are made fresh, and the staff actually knows the story behind each preparation. It’s located within walking distance of most Centro attractions, making it an easy lunch stop.
4) Tour the Palacio de Bellas Artes for art and architecture
I always make time to visit the Palacio de Bellas Artes when I’m in Centro. The marble exterior catches your eye immediately, and the building itself is worth the trip just for its stunning early 20th-century design.
Inside, you’ll find murals by famous Mexican artists like Diego Rivera. The art collection showcases important works that tell the story of Mexico’s cultural history. I recommend buying a ticket to go up to the upper floors where you can get different perspectives of the interior architecture.
The building also functions as a performing arts venue, so you might catch a ballet or concert if you time your visit right. After exploring, I suggest checking out Café Bellas Artes for breakfast or lunch nearby.
5) Walk through the Templo Mayor archaeological site
I always make time to explore the Templo Mayor when I’m in Centro. This ancient Aztec temple sits right in the heart of modern Mexico City, creating an incredible contrast between past and present.
The archaeological site lets me walk among the actual ruins where the Aztecs once performed their most important ceremonies. I can see the remains of the twin temples and the layers of construction that reveal how the structure evolved over time.
What I find most fascinating is how accessible everything is. The site is easy to reach on foot from other Centro attractions, and I don’t need a guide to navigate it, though having one can add valuable context.
The adjacent museum displays artifacts unearthed from the excavations, giving me a fuller picture of Aztec life and ritual practices.
6) Stroll along Madero Street, a bustling pedestrian boulevard
I always make time to walk down Madero Street when I’m in Centro. This pedestrian corridor connects some of the city’s most iconic spots, and it’s completely car-free, which makes it perfect for leisurely exploring.
The street is lined with historic buildings, shops, and cafes. I love watching the mix of locals and tourists weaving through the crowds while street performers add to the lively atmosphere.
Since it was pedestrianized, Madero has become one of the most popular walking streets in Mexico City. I usually start at the Palacio de Bellas Artes end and make my way toward the Zócalo, stopping whenever something catches my eye. The energy here is infectious, especially on weekends when it gets really packed.
7) Check out the Diego Rivera murals at the National Palace
I always make time to visit the Diego Rivera murals at the National Palace when I’m in Centro. These massive works cover the main stairway and tell the story of Mexican history in vivid detail.
Rivera painted these murals between 1929 and 1935, and they’re honestly breathtaking in person. The central panels show everything from pre-Hispanic civilizations to the Mexican Revolution.
I love how Rivera included so many details of everyday life alongside the major historical events. You can spend hours spotting different characters and scenes throughout the composition.
The best part? Entry to the National Palace is free. You just need to bring a valid ID to get through security. I recommend going early in the morning to avoid crowds and get better views of the murals.
8) Relax in Alameda Central park, the oldest public park in the Americas
I always make time to visit Alameda Central when I’m exploring Centro. This historic green space dates back centuries and holds the title of the oldest urban park in Mexico and the Americas.
The tree-lined pathways offer a peaceful escape from the busy streets surrounding it. I love grabbing a bench and watching the mix of locals and tourists pass by.
The park sits perfectly between the Zócalo and other colonial landmarks, making it an ideal spot to rest between sightseeing. Street vendors sell snacks and drinks if I need refreshments.
On weekends, the atmosphere gets livelier with families picnicking and artists displaying their work. The fountains and monuments scattered throughout add to the park’s charm without overwhelming its relaxed vibe.
9) Discover local art galleries around Calle Regina
I love wandering through Calle Regina in the Historic Center because it feels like an open-air gallery. The street has transformed into a hub for contemporary art, with colorful murals and spray-can art decorating the walls.
Local galleries pop up along this stretch, showcasing work from Mexican artists and international talents. I’ve found some of my favorite pieces just by exploring the side streets and smaller exhibition spaces.
The area hosts rotating exhibits, so there’s always something new to see when I visit. Many galleries welcome walk-ins, making it easy to spend an afternoon gallery-hopping.
I recommend taking time to chat with gallery owners and artists when possible. They often share stories about the neighborhood’s artistic evolution that I wouldn’t find in guidebooks.
10) Stop by the Museo Franz Mayer for decorative arts
I always make time for the Museo Franz Mayer when I’m wandering through Centro. This place houses an incredible collection of decorative arts that Franz Mayer spent decades assembling before his death in the 1990s.
The museum sits in a beautiful colonial building and showcases everything from antique furniture to ceramics, textiles, and silverwork. I’m particularly drawn to the Mexican pieces from the 19th century, though the collection spans multiple eras and regions.
What I appreciate most is how accessible it feels. The displays aren’t intimidating, and I can spend an hour or two here without feeling overwhelmed. The museum also has a peaceful courtyard café where I sometimes grab coffee after browsing the galleries.
It’s a refreshing break from the busier tourist spots nearby.
11) Sip coffee at a café in Plaza de Santo Domingo
I love grabbing a coffee at one of the cafés surrounding Plaza de Santo Domingo. This historic square feels more laid-back than the main Zócalo, making it perfect for a relaxed morning break.
The plaza has a quieter vibe where I can actually sit and enjoy my café con leche without fighting crowds. I usually pick a spot with outdoor seating so I can watch the street typists working at their old-school typewriters.
The cafés here aren’t fancy, but that’s part of the charm. I find it’s one of those places where locals actually hang out, not just tourists snapping photos. The coffee is solid, and the people-watching is excellent.
It’s a nice spot to rest between visiting nearby attractions like the Palace of the Inquisition.
12) Browse the Mercado de San Juan for exotic foods
I always make time to visit Mercado de San Juan when I’m in Centro. This market stands out from typical Mexican markets because of its impressive selection of exotic and international ingredients.
The vendors here stock everything from wild game and unusual cuts of meat to imported cheeses and Asian spices. I’ve spotted crocodile, ostrich, and even insects available for adventurous eaters.
What I love most is wandering through the crowded stalls and discovering ingredients I can’t find anywhere else in the city. The market draws both professional chefs and curious food lovers, so the atmosphere stays lively throughout the day.
It’s not far from other Centro attractions, making it easy to squeeze into my itinerary between sightseeing stops.
13) Have dinner with a view at Balcón del Zócalo
I always recommend grabbing dinner at Balcón del Zócalo when you want to combine good food with an incredible view. The restaurant sits right on the plaza, giving you a front-row seat to one of the world’s largest public squares.
The menu features traditional Mexican dishes in a more upscale setting. I’ve found the atmosphere works well for both romantic dinners and casual meals with friends.
What makes this spot special is watching the Zócalo transform as evening falls. The plaza lights up, and you can see the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace from your table. It’s one of those experiences where the location does as much work as the food.
I’d suggest making a reservation, especially if you want a window seat during peak dinner hours.
14) Visit the Museo Archivo de la Fotografía for cool photo exhibits
I always make time for the Museo Archivo de la Fotografía when I’m exploring Centro Histórico. This small museum sits in a beautiful 16th-century building and focuses entirely on photography exhibits.
The rotating displays showcase both historical and contemporary Mexican photography. I’ve seen everything from vintage images of Mexico City’s past to modern artistic interpretations during my visits.
What I like most is that it’s free to enter. The museum occupies a compact space, so you can explore the exhibits in about 30 to 45 minutes.
The building itself adds to the experience, with its colonial architecture providing an atmospheric backdrop for the photography collections. I find it’s an easy stop to include while wandering through the historic center, especially since it’s located near other major attractions.
15) Try churros with hot chocolate at Churrería El Moro
I always make time for Churrería El Moro when I’m in Centro. This iconic spot has been serving up fresh churros since 1935, and honestly, they’ve perfected the recipe.
The churros come out hot and crispy, with just the right amount of sweetness. I like to order mine with their thick, rich hot chocolate for dipping. It’s the kind of combination that makes you understand why this pairing became a Mexican tradition.
The place has a classic diner vibe with its vintage tiles and counter seating. I’ve been there at various hours, and it’s always busy with locals and tourists alike. They’re open 24 hours, which means I can satisfy my churro craving whether it’s breakfast or a late-night snack after exploring the city.
