Centro Histórico Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Centro Histórico. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Historic Center Food Tour in Mexico City

• Mexico City Custom Private Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems

• Private City Tour Mexico City - Best Rated

• Culinary Secrets of the Centro Histórico

• Mexico City Highlights E-Bike Tour With Foodie Stops

It’s free to explore Mexico City’s Centro Histórico, but many travelers opt to visit the neighborhood on a guided tour. Group walking tours start at US$14 per person, while similar tours with a private guide start at US$34. Self-guided audio tours are available as well for US$12.

Yes, you can't miss a visit to the Centro Histórico, right at the heart of the modern-day city. Start at the UNESCO–listed Zócalo, the buzzing epicenter of urban life, then take a peek inside the grand Metropolitan Cathedral and visit one of the many museums. There's a lot to see, so taking a tour can help you get your bearings, and local guides will provide insight into everything from Aztec history to where to find the best street food.

Per one customer who booked the Historic Center Food Tour in Mexico City, "I really enjoyed this food tour—it was a great way to experience a variety of local dishes. I tried around six or seven different foods, all of which were interesting and tasty. The tour guide was lovely, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about the area. It made a big difference having someone local who could explain everything so well. It was also a nice touch that we got to take some bakery items away at the end. Overall, a great experience and something I would definitely recommend if you're visiting."

The must-see attractions in Mexico City’s Centro Histórico (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) include Zócalo Square, the Metropolitan Cathedral (the largest cathedral on the continent), the Aztec Templo Mayor, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes. Other highlights include Palacio Postal and Museo Nacional de Arte. Don’t miss a mariachi performance in Plaza Garibaldi. And if you have time, visit the National Palace. It boasts a beautiful Diego Rivera mural, located on a stairwell, that shows the history of the artist’s beloved home country.

Mexico City’s Centro Histórico hosts various concerts, parades, and cultural fairs year-round. In late October, you can participate in Día de los Muertos celebrations leading up to November 2. Other important events include Independence Day festivities on September 15 and 16 and the Festival de México in March.

The best time to visit Centro Histórico is during Mexico City’s dry season from November–April, when there is pleasant weather and fewer tourist crowds. As the neighborhood offers little coverage from the elements, avoid visiting during the rainy season (June–September), when you can expect sporadic showers throughout the day.

Yes, Centro Histórico generally is considered safe, especially during the day. Regardless of the time of day, it’s always essential to remain aware of your telephone, wallet, and other valuables. While you’ll see locals and tourists enjoying the area late into the night, be cautious if walking alone.

The historic center of Mexico City, Centro Histórico, dates back to the founding of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlán, in 1325. After the Spanish conquest in 1521, it became the center of colonial rule. The Spaniards destroyed most of the Aztec structures, and over subsequent centuries, numerous artifacts have been discovered, including the Aztec sunstone.

Yes, you can find a variety of guided Centro Historico tours, like the Walking Tour of the Historic Center of Mexico City to small-group culinary excursions. Other organized sightseeing options include layover, nighttime tours like Mexico City’s Night Out: Cantinas, Lucha Libre & Mariachi Music, and e-bike tours. Maximize your vacation time by booking your centro historico tickets in advance, the city has a lot to offer.

There are tons of things to do when you're done visiting the Centro Histórico. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in and around Mexico City:

• Teotihuacán

• Frida Kahlo Museum (Museo Frida Kahlo)

• Xochimilco

• Coyoacán

• Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Mexico City.