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Mexico City

Your family trip to Mexico City awaits! Enjoy the cultural nuances of this incredible metropolis on guided tours and experiences with scenset.

Sarah Casewit
Scenset travel curator

The pulsating megalopolis of Mexico City lies nestled in the Valley of Anahuac between the dramatic peaks of two snow-capped volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl. Travelers to Mexico City find themselves in a melting pot of history and culture where the ancient past and contemporary present blend to create a unique synergy with a foot in both worlds. From humble taco stands to Michelin starred restaurants, it truly is one of the world's greatest cities for food.

Friday, 29 December, 2023 – Wednesday, 03 January, 2024 · 5 nights
Your Trip to Mexico City
Welcome to Mexico City!
Welcome to Mexico City!
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Itinerary Overview

Dec. 29, 2023 - Jan. 3, 2024
Mexico City | 5 nights

Booked Independently

Jan. 3, 2024
Departure

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Travelers on Trip
  • An individual's name will be provided
  • An individual's name will be provided
  • An individual's name will be provided
  • An individual's name will be provided
  • An individual's name will be provided
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Emergency Contacts

If you need any urgent assistance while you are travelling, or if you would like to make any changes, reservations or cancellations during your trip, you can contact the following local contacts:

Mexico
Name: will be provided
Local Contact Number: will be provided
Local Emergency Number: will be provided

Name: will be provided
Local Contact Number: will be provided
Local Emergency Number: will be provided

Scenset
Your Curator: will be provided
Scenset Emergency Line: will be provided

You can also reach out to us on the Scenset app and we will be happy to help.

Important: If something needs immediate assistance, your local contact is the best person to call first as they are in the same time zone.

Destination Info
Explore the dazzling architecture of Mexico City!
Explore the dazzling architecture of Mexico City!
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Weather

During December and January, Mexico City enjoys mild daytime temperatures, presenting a respite from the scorching heat of the preceding months. Days are typically pleasant, with average highs reaching a comfortable range. These moderate temperatures, coupled with relatively low humidity, create an inviting ambiance for outdoor exploration and sightseeing!

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Travel Requirements

You don't need a tourist visa for Mexico if you have a United States or Peruvian passport.

More information on travel restrictions for Mexico can be found here.

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A few helpful phrases...

A few Spanish phrases to try during your trip are:

  • Hello: ¡Hola! (oh-lah)
  • Good morning: ¡Buenos días! (bweh-nos dee-ahs)
  • Good afternoon: ¡Buenas tardes! (bweh-nahs tar-dehs)
  • Good evening: ¡Buenas noches! (bweh-nahs noh-chehs)
  • Goodbye: ¡Adiós! (a-dyos)
  • Thank you: Gracias (grah-thee-ahs)
  • Please: ¡Por favor! (pohr fah-vohr)
  • How are you?: ¿Cómo estás? (ko-mo es-tas)
  • Good, thank you!: ¡Bien, gracias! (bee-ehn gra-thee-as)
  • Please!: ¡Por favor! (pohr fah-vohr)
  • No problem: De nada (de-na-da)
  • Sorry: Perdón (per-dohn)
  • What is your name?: ¿Cómo te llamas? (coh-moh teh yah-mah)
  • My name is...: Me llamo... (meh yah-moh)
  • Yes: Si (sea)
  • No: No (with a shorter o sound)
  • Cheers!: ¡Salud! (sah-LOO)
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What to pack

For your trip, we recommend bringing the following:

  • Cool and comfortable clothes for when the weather is hot. Cotton clothing works well!
  • Walking/hiking shoes.
  • Swim/beach shoes (some beaches are pebbles) if your feet are sensitive.
  • Sun cream, sun hat, lip balm and sunglasses.
  • Swimsuit, for the pools and sauna in the spa at all properties, as well as the beach.
  • A modest outfit if you are visiting churches or holy sites that cover the top of your legs, chest, shoulders and top of your arms.
  • Semi-casual clothes for eating out.
  • Semi-formal clothes if you're eating out at a fine dining restaurant; it's always nice to dress up when on holiday!
  • Day-pack for excursions
  • A European adapter
  • A power bank to keep your phone charged for all those great pictures!
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Tipping

If you want to tip in a restaurant using your credit card, just inform the server when they bring the credit card machine how much you want to pay.

Our guideline for tipping is:

  • Restaurants: If you see a charge labeled IVA on your final bill, the restaurant has applied Mexico’s 16% value-added tax (IVA stands for “impuesto al valor agregado”), which goes to the government, not the waitstaff.
  • To show your appreciation for the meal, tip your server around 15%. Raise that to 20% if you were wowed.
  • Note that some establishments automatically charge a service fee, so keep an eye out so that you don't tip twice.
  • Guides: per day.
  • Drivers: per day.
  • Hotels | Housekeeping: per day.
  • Hotels | Porters: per bag.
  • Taxis: Tips are not expected but you can always round the fare up.
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Spotify Playlist

Here are the Spotify lists we have designed for your trip to include great vibes:

  • Summer Chill is the perfect soundtrack for the beach, full of laid-back, summer vibes!
  • Balearic Beats is our bespoke playlist full of upbeat house music and dance songs; perfect for getting into the summer mood!
Friday, 29 December, 2023
Day 1: Fly to Mexico City

Make your way to Mexico today!

Marcia, Mark, Ava & Ray Arrival
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Independent Transfer

Transfer from the airport and transfer to the hotel.

  • Booked Independently.
Mexico City

Breathtakingly large, Mexico City is composed of nearly 1,700 distinct neighborhoods, offering an eclectic mix of charm, culture and history. Mexico City is known for exquisite museums, world-renowned restaurants, historic sites and buzzing nightlife. It is one of the largest and most populous cities in the world, offering a multitude of attractions and experiences for travelers to explore. The city boasts a wealth of historical and cultural landmarks, such as the magnificent Zocalo (main square), which is home to the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. Visitors can also explore ancient Aztec ruins at the Templo Mayor archaeological site, showcasing the city's pre-Hispanic heritage.

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Your Neighborhood: Colonia Roma

Ignacia Guest House is nestled in the heart of Mexico City, providing a haven of tranquility amidst the vibrant urban landscape. Located in the trendy neighborhood of Colonia Roma, this boutique guest house offers a prime position for immersing oneself in the city's artistic and cultural scenset. Colonia Roma, renowned for its bohemian atmosphere and architectural beauty, sets the stage for an enchanting stay at Ignacia Guest House. The neighborhood is characterized by tree-lined streets, charming cafés, and a vibrant arts community. Its central location grants easy access to nearby attractions and landmarks, allowing guests to explore Mexico City's diverse offerings with convenience.

The evening has been left for you to relax and explore at your own pace.

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18:45 - Dinner at Marmota

Reservation: Evening
Reserved By: An individual
Location: Here15 min walk from the hotel
Menu: Here

Marmota is a reflection of the time that chefs Federico Patiño and Poppy Powell spent in the Pacific Northwest, known for its mountains, valleys, forests, and seas. Drawing inspiration from the natural abundance and dynamic culinary culture of the region, Marmota brings a taste of Puget Sound to the heart of Mexico City. With a focus on a wood-burning fireplace and communal dining, the menu emphasizes wild seafood, farm-fresh vegetables, and a variety of fermentations. The food and drink menus showcase a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship of farmers, foragers, winemakers, and artisans.

Booked online

Your Stay: Ignacia Guest House (Booked Independently)

Why we love it for you: A guest house stands out as a truly exceptional destination in Mexico City. Its prime location in the vibrant neighborhood of Colonia Roma offers guests an immersive experience in the city's thriving arts and culture scenset. The guest house's impeccable design seamlessly blends traditional Mexican aesthetics with contemporary elegance, creating a unique and visually captivating environment. The guest house's commitment to personalized service ensures that guests feel truly cared for and attended to, fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout their stay.

Saturday, 30 December, 2023
Day 2: Explore Mexico City
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10:00 - Historic Guided Tour
  • Meeting Time: Morning
  • Meeting Point: Ignacia Guesthouse Lobby
  • Vehicle: Suburban
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Contact: will be provided
  • Driver: will be provided


Discover Mexico’s Meso-American, colonial and revolutionary history while exploring the historic centre of the capital. What is now the heart of this modern city was also once the centre of the Aztec world, Tenochtitlan.

Begin at the stunning Bellas Artes Palace, adorned with vibrant murals by renowned Mexican artists. Visit the majestic Cathedral, admire its intricate architecture, and delve into the serene Alameda Central. Marvel at the striking Correos Building and explore the artistic wonders of the Munal. Conclude the tour at the National Palace. This tour unveils the city's architectural splendor and offers profound insights into Mexico's vibrant past and present.

  • Late morning: Arrival to the Historic Center of Mexico City.
  • Midday to early afternoon: Visit to Templo Mayor, Bellas Artes, Cathedral, Alameda and Murals, Post Office, Munal Museum and National Palace.
  • Early afternoon: Transfer back to the Hotel Ignacia Guesthouse.
  • Early afternoon: Arrival to Hotel Ignacia Guest House.


Included by Scenset

Enjoy your afternoon at leisure to explore the city independently.

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Hot Tips
  • Mercado de Artesanias La Cuidadela has everything from loom-woven blouses to ceramics and ex-voto paintings.
  • El Moro Churrería is ideal in the early evening when families, couples, and friends all go out for a taste of sweet fried dough and chocolate.
  • Dulcería de Celaya is a sweet shop open since 1874 and dedicated to traditional Mexican confections.
  • Hospital de Jésus Nazareno is the oldest hospital on the continent and, legend has it, the spot where the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés and Aztec ruler Moctezuma met for the first time in 1519. Though still a working hospital, it has a beautiful, lush courtyard and brightly colored mural.

The rest of the day has been left for you to relax.

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19:00 - Dinner at Blanco Castelar

Reservation: Evening
Reserved By: Scenset
Location: Here
Menu: Here

Blanco Castelar, situated at Emilio Castelar 163 within Casa Domit, boasts a unique dining experience in a Californian-style building designed by architect Shafick Kaim in 1939-1940. The interior combines classic elements such as an attached staircase, Solomonic columns, and Novohispanic-influenced ornamentation. Studio 240 contributed a modern yet elegant architectural touch. The restaurant prioritizes the quality and freshness of ingredients, coupled with expert culinary techniques. Blanco Castelar offers a sophisticated and distinctive atmosphere, making it a standout choice for those seeking a memorable dining experience in Mexico City.

Booked by Scenset

Sunday, 31 December, 2023
Day 3: Eat Mexico City!
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09:50 - Guided Food Tour
  • Meeting Time: Morning
  • Tour starts: Morning
  • Meeting Point: Campeche 346, Condesa at Casa Cardinal Coffee Shop (they have two stores make sure you are going to the CONDESA one) - Click here for Google Maps link
  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Contact: A guide will be provided | A phone number will be provided


In Mexico City, two food worlds exist side by side: the restaurants and the streets. It can be hard to know which sidewalk grills, market stalls, taquerías, and cantinas to visit if you’re not familiar with the city. Our expert guide will whisk you away from the tourist traps and take you to places that our local resident guides know and love. We want you to connect with Mexico City in a profound way, by tasting the food that residents eat and enjoy. You’ll learn the food’s history, the ingredients, the how’s and the why’s.

You'll learn everything you need to know about Mexico City, from subway navigation to street food, little cafes, bakeries and of course, the markets. Walk around the flowers, taste the best food, absorb the overwhelming chaos of my city, the food, the smells, and the people.

The tour is not only about food but also about history and fun facts, covering 3 neighborhoods including Jamaica (the flower market) and La Merced Market. You will have an amazing comprehension of the city, its people, and daily life.

If you decide to come with us you'll need to awaken your explorer within, there will be chaos, there will be crowds, you'll ride the subway and climb lots of stairs, you'll walk a lot and the weather will be hot, but if you accept the challenge of stepping out of your comfort zone, you'll get to see a side of the city rarely experienced by conventional tourists.

Bring an open mind and heart, a go-with-the-flow attitude, comfortable shoes and an empty stomach and you are set to have a great tour.

  • Includes all tastings.


Included by Scenset.

Enjoy your afternoon at leisure to explore the city independently.

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Art in Mexico City

Mexico City is a haven for art enthusiasts, with numerous world-class museums and galleries. The Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as Casa Azul, provides insight into the life and art of the iconic Mexican painter. The Palacio de Bellas Artes is a must-visit for its impressive architecture and remarkable collection of fine art, including famous murals by Diego Rivera. Additionally, the city hosts a vibrant street art scene, with colorful murals adorning its neighborhoods.

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NYE Dinner at Arango

Reservation: Evening
Reserved By: An individual
Location: Here

Embark on an extraordinary culinary odyssey this New Year's Eve as our meticulously curated four-course menu transports you to the heart of gastronomic bliss. The journey commences with the first course, where the tantalizing symphony of flavors unfolds with Beef Empanadas adorned with the richness of Mole Coloradito, and Seafood Ceviche that marries the freshness of the ocean with the sweet notes of coconut and apple. The second course elevates the experience with Romeritos bathed in Mole Poblano, a festive tribute to tradition, alongside Christmas Chipotles stuffed with cheese, gracefully draped in bean sauce. The crescendo arrives with the third course, presenting a masterpiece of Baked Suckling Pig bathed in a tantalizing chile marinade, harmonizing with the crispness of an Apple Salad. Complementing this culinary symphony is Shrimp Cannelloni, a delightful dance of flavors, generously stuffed with the decadence of Raclette cheese. As the grand finale unfolds with the fourth course, indulge your sweetest desires with a Chocolate Roll enveloped in layers of rich chocolate, and a Red Fruit Pana-Cotta with Yogurt that paints a vibrant portrait of sweetness, bringing this culinary journey to a sublime close.

Booked by an individual

Monday, 01 January, 2024
Day 4: New Year's Day
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Explore Teotihuacán
  • Meeting Time: Morning
  • Meeting Point: Ignacia Guesthouse
  • Contact: will be provided


Teotihuacan, a pre-Columbian Mesoamerican city, thrived as one of the largest and most influential urban centers in ancient Mexico during the first millennium CE. Renowned for its monumental pyramids, such as the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, Teotihuacan served as a cultural and economic hub, showcasing advanced urban planning and diverse multiethnic influences. Though its scenset inhabitants remain unknown, the city's legacy endures as a testament to the sophisticated civilizations that once flourished in the region.

Booked by an individual.

In the afternoon and evening, explore Mexico City at leisure.

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Hot Tips
  • Plaza Uruguay: this is a small park in the middle of Polanco, a relaxing location perfect for taking a break from the busy city.
  • Soumaya Museum: This museum contains a private collection of art, sculptures and other items. Painters such as Picasso, Renoir, Dali, Van Gogh and many notable Mexican artists feature in the exhibition.
  • Tianguis: Tianguis is the Aztec name given to street markets. Head to the Saturday tianguis in Lincoln Park to buy fresh fruit and vegetables, tacos and other Mexican snacks.
  • National Anthropology Museum: It contains one of the largest collections of Mayan artefacts in the world, from pre-Columbian civilizations to the time of the Spanish conquest.
  • Shopping on Avenida Presidente Masaryk: Considered the Champs-Élysées of Mexico, Avenida Presidente Masaryk is one of the most expensive, yet most popular, shopping streets in the country.
Tuesday, 02 January, 2024
Day 5: Mexico City's Southern Region
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09:00 - Southern Mexico City Tour & Xochimilco
  • Meeting Time: Morning
  • Meeting Point: Ignacia Guesthouse Lobby
  • Vehicle: Suburban
  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Contact: will be provided


Private guided tour of the tree-lined streets of San Angel, Coyoacán and the waterways of Xochimilco. Visit to Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul. For lunch, head over to Mercado Coyoacán for an authentic Mexican meal. At Xochimilco, you will explore the canals while floating on a colorful boat called a trajinera.

  • Morning: Arrival to Xochimilco.
  • Morning to early afternoon: Board the trajinera.
  • Early afternoon: Disembark trajinera and transfer to the South of Mexico City.
  • Early afternoon: Arrival to San Angel to walk the streets.
  • Afternoon: Transfer to Coyoacan.
  • Afternoon: Arrival to Frida Kahlo Museum.


Late afternoon: Transfer back to the Hotel Ignacia Guesthouse.

Included by Scenset.

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Dinner at Azul Condesa

Reservation: Evening
Reserved By: An individual
Location: Here21 min walk from the hotel
Menu: Here

Azul Condesa is a renowned restaurant nestled in the heart of Mexico City, celebrated for its exceptional culinary offerings that showcase the richness of Mexican flavors and ingredients. The restaurant, under the direction of Chef Ricardo Muñoz Zurita, is a culinary haven that seamlessly blends traditional Mexican gastronomy with contemporary flair. The vibrant and inviting ambiance complements the diverse menu, which features a meticulous selection of dishes representing various regions of Mexico. From meticulously crafted mole sauces to delectable seafood and innovative interpretations of classic Mexican dishes, Azul Condesa offers a culinary journey that reflects the essence and creativity of Mexican cuisine. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity, combined with a sophisticated atmosphere, makes it a cherished destination for those seeking an elevated and culturally resonant dining experience in Mexico City.

Booked by an individual on OpenTable

Wednesday, 03 January, 2024
Day 6: Travel to New York
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Independent Transfer

Take a taxi to Mexico City's airport for your flight home.

Marcia, Mark, Ava & Ray Departure
Scenset: Travel Greener
Scenset: Travel Greener
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Scenset invests in making the world a better place. Scenset will offset the fuel used during the trip. On top of that, we will offset an extra 10% to make your trip a carbon-positive experience.

Currently, we support Gold Standard Climate+ Projects from the Gold Standard Foundation.