Is Mexico City safe for tourists?

Yes, especially in tourist areas and neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Polanco. Use normal city precautions - don't flash expensive items, use official taxis or Uber, avoid empty streets late at night. The metro is safe during daylight hours.

How do I deal with the altitude?

Mexico City sits at 7,350 feet. Drink lots of water, avoid excessive alcohol the first day, and take it easy if you feel lightheaded. Most people adjust within 24-48 hours. Consider altitude sickness medication if you're particularly sensitive.

Can I drink the tap water?

No, stick to bottled or filtered water. Most hotels provide filtered water, and you can buy large bottles cheaply at any store. Restaurants typically serve purified water and ice.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

Basic Spanish helps a lot, especially outside tourist areas. Download Google Translate with camera function for menus. In hotels and tourist restaurants, some English is usually spoken.

What's the best way to get around?

The metro system is excellent, cheap, and connects everywhere you want to go. Uber works well for longer distances or late nights. Avoid street taxis unless you know what you're doing.

How to Spend 5 Days in Mexico City

Five days gives you time to hit the major neighborhoods, eat incredibly well, and dive into the city's art and history without rushing. Base yourself in Roma Norte or Condesa, use the metro system, and budget $50-70 per day including food, transport, and attractions.

Pick your base neighborhood. Stay in Roma Norte for trendy restaurants and walkability, or Condesa for tree-lined streets and parks. Both have good metro access and feel safe for walking. Avoid staying near the airport or far-flung areas.
Get a metro card on arrival. Buy a rechargeable metro card at any station for 16 pesos. Load it with 100-200 pesos to start. The metro costs 5 pesos per ride and connects all major areas efficiently.
Book Templo Mayor and Anthropology Museum tickets online. These two museums are essential and can get crowded. Book timed entry slots 2-3 days ahead through their official websites to skip lines.
Download offline maps. Internet can be spotty underground and in some buildings. Download offline Google Maps for Mexico City before you arrive.

Is Mexico City safe for tourists?: Yes, especially in tourist areas and neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Polanco. Use normal city precautions - don't flash expensive items, use official taxis or Uber, avoid empty streets late at night. The metro is safe during daylight hours.
How do I deal with the altitude?: Mexico City sits at 7,350 feet. Drink lots of water, avoid excessive alcohol the first day, and take it easy if you feel lightheaded. Most people adjust within 24-48 hours. Consider altitude sickness medication if you're particularly sensitive.
Can I drink the tap water?: No, stick to bottled or filtered water. Most hotels provide filtered water, and you can buy large bottles cheaply at any store. Restaurants typically serve purified water and ice.
Do I need to speak Spanish?: Basic Spanish helps a lot, especially outside tourist areas. Download Google Translate with camera function for menus. In hotels and tourist restaurants, some English is usually spoken.
What's the best way to get around?: The metro system is excellent, cheap, and connects everywhere you want to go. Uber works well for longer distances or late nights. Avoid street taxis unless you know what you're doing.