Mexico City
Mexico City (Spanish: Ciudad de México, México D.F. or simply México, pronounced IPA: [‘mexiko]) is the capital city of the nation of Mexico. The “Distrito Federal” is also commonly referred to as the “D.F.” It is one of the largest cities in the world and is classed as a megalopolis as it encompasses one large city that has slowly engulfed other, smaller ones. It is located in the Valley of Mexico, a large valley in the high plateaus at the centre of Mexico, about 2,240 meters (7,349 feet) above sea-level, surrounded on most sides by volcanoes towering at 4,000 to 5,500 meters (13,000 to 18,000 feet) above sea-level.
In a broader meaning, “Mexico City” refers to the whole metropolitan area of Greater Mexico City. The metropolitan area extends beyond the limits of the D.F. and encompasses (as of 2000) 35 independent municipalities located in the State of México (Estado de México), to the north, east, and west of the D.F., extending as far north as the State of Hidalgo. The metropolitan area of Greater Mexico City had 17.8 million inhabitants at the 2000 Mexican census. This means Mexico City is among the five most populated metropolitan areas in the world on par with Tokyo, New York City, Seoul and São Paulo.
What to Do
Palacio de Bellas Artes
Palacio de Bellas Artes takes the cake for stunning architecture. In spring time, the purple jacarandas bloom for an impressive sight. But any time of the year, Palacio de Bellas Artes provides a spectacular ambiance at golden hour. Next to Parque Alameda, couples...
Chapultepec Forest
The hustle and bustle of the city can get a little overwhelming at times. Fit in a trip to Chapultepec Forest, conveniently located to downtown and Condesa. One of the world’s largest urban parks, it spans 450 acres and provides numerous enjoyment options, including...
Ruins of Templo Mayor
The Templo Mayor (Main Temple) in Tenochtitlan, capital of the mighty Aztec empire, was located in the center of the city, where the most important ritual and ceremonial activities in Aztec life took place. Standing about ninety feet high, the majestic...
The Zócalo
Officially known as Plaza de la Constitución, El Zócalo is the main public square and one of the most recognizable places in Mexico City. It contains a giant Mexican flag at its center and has been the centerpiece of public gatherings since the days of the Aztecs. The...
Where to Stay
Where to Eat
If there’s something synonymous with Mexico City, it’s the word food. Some serious eats and some of the best restaurants in Mexico City are ones that top the world’s best list each year. Whether you’re in it for the street food or a 12-course meal, you’ll love Mexico City!
