Top Mexico City Day Trips

There are plenty of options for exciting day trips from Mexico City. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best experiences available right now:

• Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine, Tlatelolco & Tequila Tasting Tour
• Xochimilco, Coyoacán & Frida Kahlo Museum
• Teotihuacan Early Access Tour with Tequila Tasting
• Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Teotihuacan, from Mexico City
• Teotihuacan Private Tour from Mexico City

Many destinations are within driving distance of Mexico City, including Cuernavaca, San Miguel de Allende, and a handful of “magic towns,” including Metepec and Tepoztlán. And if ancient cities are on your radar, you can’t miss the Aztec ruins of Teotihuacán.

Mexico City is centrally located between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, roughly five to eight hours from either coast. Due to the distance, visiting the beach as a day trip from Mexico City isn’t recommended. Mexico City is a transit hub for all modes of transportation, though, so it’s easy to add a longer coastal visit to your trip.

No, visiting Oaxaca as a day trip from Mexico City is not recommended. Although technically possible, the two cities are roughly eight hours apart by private vehicle—and even longer by bus. If you want to visit Oaxaca, plan to spend at least three days soaking up the city’s natural attractions and culinary scene.

The UNESCO-listed pyramids of Teotihuacan are located roughly one hour to two hours from Mexico City, depending on traffic. It’s easy to get there by bus, but if you want to visit additional attractions, like artisan workshops or tequila tastings, consider a guided tour to see it all in a day.

Most visitors find 3–5 days enough time to check out Mexico City’s top attractions—although some would argue that there’s no such thing as too long in this lively metropolis. If you have more time, you can easily take day trips to destinations like the Teotihuacán archaeological site, the floating gardens of Xochimilco, or the waters of Tolantongo.

There are tons of fun tours and excursions in Mexico City aside from day trips. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Hot-Air Balloon Rides

• Private Drivers

• Dance Lessons

• Architecture Tours

• Day of the Dead Events

Mexico City day trip prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now: 

• Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine & Tlatelolco Full-Day Tour

• Teotihuacan Early or Afternoon Access Guided Tour with No Crowds

• Teotihuacan Exclusive Tour with Cave Restaurant & Basilica

• Full-Day Teotihuacan & Basilica Guadalupe Tour

• Teotihuacan Tour with Cave Restaurant, Tlatelolco & Basilica

Before booking a day trip from Mexico City, research tours that suit your group's interests—history lovers will enjoy visiting Teotihuacán for the day, while adventure-seekers might prefer a hot-air balloon ride or a trip to the Tolantongo Grottoes. Review what’s included: meals, drinks, and transportation may be offered, but inclusions vary. Consider tour length, as some excursions last all day and require significant travel time.

Mexico City day trips are a great way to explore the country's historic and cultural gems. Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for dusty cobblestone streets, which are common in many parts of Mexico; dress in layers, as the temperature can change if you’re out for a full day; and pack sun protection, including sunscreen and a sun hat. Some tours include drinks and snacks, but check your tour's itinerary to see what you might need to pack yourself and any extra expenses to anticipate. If water isn’t provided, bring plenty.

There are many day trips from Mexico City available throughout the year. If visiting in October, you can take day trips to experience the Day of the Dead festivities in nearby towns. Winter is a great time to head to Teotihuacan for the day, as the temperature will be lower and more pleasant for exploring outdoors. Plan tours in advance if you’re visiting in the busy summer months, as excursions can book up.