If you’re dreaming of a city that’s full of energy, flavour, and soul, Mexico City should be at the top of your travel list. With vibrant neighbourhoods, world-class street food, rich history, and unforgettable cultural experiences, it’s a place that surprises and delights at every turn.

In this 3-day itinerary in Mexico City, we take you through a whirlwind adventure—from the historic heart of the city to colourful canals, late-night Lucha Libre matches, and hidden local gems that most tourists miss.

Where We Stayed: Budget-Friendly with Charm

We based ourselves in the Centro Histórico, the historic centre of Mexico City. While our accommodation was on the budget side, the location couldn’t have been better. Nestled in a beautifully aged building, we were steps away from the main square, iconic architecture, and the buzzing street life that defines this part of the city. For only $400 AUD for three nights, it was a steal—comfortable, central, and full of old-world charm.

Day 1: Street Food & a Local-Led Night Tour

We spent our first day exploring Centro Histórico on foot. The area is a feast for the senses—colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, music drifting from plazas, and mouthwatering aromas from street vendors at every corner.

That evening, we met up with our local guide for a Mexico City street food tour, and what an introduction it was. Our guide was an eclectic character with multiple nose rings and an encyclopedic knowledge of the local cuisine. He led us through downtown, stopping at food stalls we would have never found on our own.

We tried everything from traditional tacos to chapulines (yes—fried grasshoppers!) and rich mole sauces. The food was delicious, the stories were fascinating, and walking the streets at night gave us a whole new appreciation for Mexico City’s nightlife and culinary culture.

Day 2: Xochimilco, Chalco Town & Lucha Libre Madness

Day two started with a journey south to Xochimilco, famous for its colourful boats known as trajineras. We paid around 1,500 pesos for a private two-hour ride, and it was one of the most relaxing and enjoyable experiences of the trip.

As you drift along the canals, boats float by selling everything from tacos and micheladas to souvenirs and live mariachi music. We sipped on margaritas (though be warned—they’re often overpriced and made with fizzy drinks!) and shared plates of mole as we took in the lush surroundings.

After the boat ride, we visited Chalco town, a lesser-known local neighbourhood. It was a true cultural immersion. We wandered through local markets, popped into a small church, and had some of the best tacos of our trip—freshly made and absolutely packed with flavour.

One of the highlights was visiting the pet market, where animals of all kinds were on display, some waiting to be taken to their new homes. It was quirky, fascinating, and a total surprise.

To cap off our afternoon, we negotiated a bike taxi ride with a local man who pedalled us around Chalco in a carriage attached to his bike. Just as we started our journey back to the city, the skies opened up and we got caught in a sudden downpour—completely soaked but exhilarated.

That night, we headed out for one of Mexico City’s most unique experiences: Lucha Libre. Our guide, whom we met at a lively local taqueria, shared his deep passion for this iconic sport. He even gave us each our own Lucha Libre mask to get into the spirit before we made our way to the arena, which holds up to 60,000 roaring fans.

The show itself was chaotic, loud, hilarious, and wildly entertaining. We didn’t understand all the Spanish commentary, but the energy of the crowd and the over-the-top performances made it easy to follow along.

After the match, we stopped at a popular churro spot with lines out the door. Freshly fried churros dusted in sugar were the perfect end to a wild and wonderful day.

Day 3: Hidden Gems Bike Tour & Biblioteca Vasconcelos

On our final day in Mexico City, we decided to do something a little different and booked a Hidden Gems Bike Tour. It was the perfect way to get off the beaten path and see the city like a local.

We cycled through neighbourhoods most tourists never see, weaving through parks and quiet residential streets. Our guide was knowledgeable, warm, and full of insight. We stopped at a small bakery for pan dulce (Mexican pastries) and a strong local coffee before continuing on.

Midway through the tour, we paused for lunch and heard a powerful story about a dark chapter in Mexico’s history: the 1968 student massacre. Our guide explained how, even today, families of the victims gather in protest, still seeking justice for their loved ones. It was a sombre moment that added depth to our experience of the city.

Our final stop was Biblioteca Vasconcelos, Mexico City’s most stunning library. It’s a striking piece of modern architecture—concrete, steel, and hanging bookshelves that seem to float in the air. The library holds over 600,000 books, with plans to eventually house two million.

Outside, the gardens offer fruit trees and quiet places to reflect. It’s a peaceful, almost surreal space that feels worlds away from the hustle of the city.

To end the tour, we cycled back to where we started in a cute leafy part of the city and enjoyed a local beer – the perfect way to end a great day.

Final Thoughts: Why Mexico City Stole Our Hearts

Our 3-day itinerary in Mexico City was packed with unforgettable moments—from tasting grasshoppers and riding trajineras in Xochimilco to cheering for masked wrestlers and discovering quiet corners of the city on two wheels.

Mexico City is chaotic and calm, gritty and gorgeous, historical and hip—all at the same time. Whether you’re here for the street food, the history, or the culture, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? It’s all surprisingly affordable.

If you’re planning your own adventure, take this 3-day itinerary as a guide—but leave room for spontaneity. Mexico City has a way of pulling you in, surprising you, and making you fall in love with it again and again.