Conquer the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan

If you want to experience one of Mexico’s finest cultural attractions while getting a workout then Teotihuacan is the place for you.  Make sure you bring a water bottle and wear comfortable shoes and clothing because you will be walking and climbing a lot. After climbing 284 steps to the top of the pyramid, you get a clear view of the temple lined “Avenue of the Dead,” which is about a two-and-a-half-mile long road leading to the Pyramid of the Moon which rises to the North.  

The views at the top are gorgeous and definitely Instagram worthy. I suggest going early but if you do bring a light jacket because it tends to be a little chilly in the morning, don’t worry you’ll eventually take it off.  

At about $4 to enter, the admission gives you access to all of the pyramids and the museum making this option super affordable. But if you would like to take pictures or capture video, you have to pay an additional charge for that. Fun fact, Teotihuacan also means “birthplace of the gods”.

Feel like a Queen at Castillo de Chapultepec

Located on the top of Chapultepec Hill in Chapultepec Park, is the Castillo de Chapultepec. This is the only royal castle in all of the Americas. One of the most beautiful places I have ever been, the palace is known for its extraordinary gardens on the rooftop and its unparalleled views and terraces. Every room you walk into is simply breathtaking. From the stained-glass windows and the beautiful dining rooms and bedrooms to the Gothic Revival and Neoclassical architecture style of the whole castle. I could spend hours here just exploring and roaming the walls. 

Oh, and did I mention the gardens? That was one of my favorite parts of the whole castle and it had the best views of the city and park. Another affordable and must-do experience to do while here in Mexico. This will run you about $4 to enter and if you have your student ID you get a discounted price. Also, if you are traveling with anyone under the age of 13, they are free. 

Explore Frida Kahlo’s House

Everyone knows about the iconic Casa Azul, home to one of Mexico’s most famous artists to have ever lived. While in Mexico City, go explore Frida Kahlo’s work more deeply and get the privilege to know where and how she grew up. In her house, you’ll be taken around on a tour through each of the rooms and see how the famous painter lived.

You’ll also be able to see some of her clothes, her bed, and even her two different sized shoes. (You’ll learn why during the tour) Pricing will be about $13 for general admission. This place is small and does fill up fast so I recommend getting there early before it opens to start making the line or buying your tickets online

Float Xochimilco

The canals that run through Xochimilco, which are one of the last remnants of a water transportation system built by the Aztecs. They can be seen filled with colorful gondola-like boats also known as “trajineras” that cruise visitors up and down the stream. These are some of the coolest boats I have seen. They are all decorated differently with different names on them. I was told if you know you are going ahead of time, they can make a boat with your name on it! For that, I would give them a week in advance notice just to make sure they have enough time to design it. 

While cruising you can expect to run into food and alcohol vendors. For alcohol, they really just have a beer, but the servings are huge! So, I recommend sharing with a friend. They also can add chamoy and chili powder on the rim if you’d like to spice it up. You will also float by mariachi bands that will offer to sing and play for you, which is also super fun, but all of this will cost you. I would suggest that you bring an extra $20 in Pesos if any of these amenities interest you. 

Tourists can also visit the haunted island of the dolls if they want to get a little spooky. So for the boats, you can rent them for around $26 an hour, but be wary they might try to charge you more if you don’t speak Spanish. So I recommend going with someone who can speak and understand well if you want a good deal or buying online ahead of time to avoid the hassle. Overall the vibe is definitely festive and a fun place to get a little inebriated with friends, just don’t fall into the water!

Dine at Sir Winston Churchill’s

If you are feeling extra boujee and want to splurge a little bit on a meal, you have to check out this place. A little history on this restaurant, it actually was once an English styled mansion that was later transformed in the 1970s into what is now a restaurant. It has also become a famous landmark in Mexico City. As soon as you pull up, you are greeted with an old school Rolls Royce parked out on its own red carpet in the front (talk about IG worthy shot). Then you are walked through the beautiful garden area with outdoor seating options by a fountain. 

When you enter the restaurant you feel like you have just walked into an actual five-star restaurant in England. The interior décor is impressive. From the woodwork to the leather chairs and the food, it is unlike any other restaurant I have been to before. Not to mention the best service I have ever received. The food was also amazing. I had the duck, but they are known for their traditional favorites like Beef Wellington and Prime Rib of Roast Beef. You’ll also get to enjoy listening to live music on the piano! When dining at this restaurant, be prepared to spend a good amount of money. But the food and the experience is well worth it!

Try Some Tacos

The beauty of Mexico City is that there are taco stands on every corner open at all hours. If you want some tacos at 4 am, you can walk right out of wherever you are staying and there will be a taco stand open. They’re also super inexpensive and bomb af! Out of all of the places I have traveled to, Mexico City has the best and most diverse tacos. Ever tried offal or an ear taco? Well in Mexico City they have them and let me tell you, they are delicious. There is such a wide variety of meats and everything is made fresh. So, whenever you are visiting, be sure to grab yourself a plate of tacos.

Kayla is currently a sophomore at the University of Texas at San Antonio studying pre-business. She’s a sushi fanatic and can’t wait to share her knowledge about the best sushi restaurants around town