With a population of roughly 20 million people, Mexico City sprawls across its 573 square acres. As the capital and largest city in the nation, Mexico City is home to a lot of cool attractions. As the nation’s educational and cultural hub—not to mention one of the most important financial centers on the continent—Mexico City attracts throngs of visitors from around the world. Though there is a wide array of things to see and do in Mexico, the following are some of the country’s most popular attractions.
City Center
Known as the Centro Historico, Mexico City’s center is a must-visit area with its colonial landmarks and the celebrated ancient Aztec Templo Mayor. The center’s Zocalo is the largest square in all of Latin America. More than 1,500 buildings in this center area have been deemed historically valuable so there is plenty to see just by exploring the historic center of Mexico City. La Catedral is the largest in the Americas and a major attraction of the Centro Historico.
the historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the place from where the Aztecs ruled their empire and where sixteenth-century Spaniards began to build the city it has become today. The main plaza, or Zocalo, is a popular site of cultural festivals. When visiting the city center, be sure to see the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Museum and ruins of the Templo Mayor.
Xochimilco
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is in the southern borough of the city. It is famous for its canals and ‘floating gardens.’ The canal system is a major tourist attraction but it hints at the city’s Pre-Columbian past. Visitors come to take rides on barges known as trajineras that are similar to gondolas but brightly painted in Mexican styles.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
Regarded as one of the most important artistic and cultural museums in the country, this attraction is famous throughout the world. Famous for its murals by Diego Rivera, the Palacio de Bellas Artes features concert, dance, theatre performances and more. If you are visiting Mexico City, be sure to visit this renowned cultural center.
Chapultepec Park
As the largest park in Latin America, Chapultepec Park see more than 15 million visitors each year. Home to lakes, paths, amusement parks, and various museums, the park is an important city fixture.
National Museum of Anthropology
This world-famous museum is located in Chapultepec. The museum has vast holdings of artifacts and exhibits representing Mexico’s earliest cultures. Researchers come from around the world to view the museum’s collections alongside visitors who come simply to catch a glimpse of Mexico’s past.
The National Autonomous University of Mexico
The oldest university in the Americas, the National Autonomous University of Mexico was established in 1547. Today, it is the premier and highest-ranked Spanish-speaking university in the world. Visitors to the city may enjoy checking out a sports game or special performance or exhibition. The university and its satellites are an important feature of the city and the research by its diverse staff is famous throughout the world.
Museum of Modern Art
Although Mexico City is home to some extraordinary museums. The Museum of Modern Art is one that should certainly be on your itinerary if you are interested in art. Visit the museum to see works by such renowned artists as Frida Kahlo and Remedios Varo.
Ciudadela Crafts Market
This famous market is full of cultural and traditional offerings from crafts made throughout the country. If your visit is strictly Mexico City, this is a great place to explore the culture of other regions. Expect to find stunning examples of Talavera tiles, handmade guitars, rugs, and sombreros! This is the perfect place to find your souvenirs from your trip to Mexico City.
Angel de la Independencia
This incredible monument represents Mexico’s hard-won 1810 independence. Located on Reforma Avenue, the monument attracts many people because. The Angel de la Independencia is of great cultural significance and importance to the people of Mexico.
Of course, these are just some of the all-stars of Mexico City attractions. There are many more places to see such as the Ciudadela crafts market, Basílica de Guadalupe, Coyoacán, Plaza de las Tres Culturas, and so many more! Add these to your travel itinerary the next time you visit Mexico City.
*When driving in Mexico, secure Mexican car insurance at www.mexinsurance.com
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