A Budget Family Explorer's 10-Day Mexico City & Tolantongo Itinerary

Check into a spacious family Airbnb in the Buena Vista region. This area is highly convenient and close to local shops, though be prepared for stairs as many properties are on higher floors without elevators.

Make a quick stop at a local supermarket to stock up on bottled water and basic essentials for your stay. It is highly inexpensive and convenient.

Enjoy your first dinner at this highly recommended local taqueria. Try the El Pastor with melted gaona cheese or the mushroom quesadillas. It is slightly pricier than street stands but offers a great atmosphere and stays open until 2:00 AM.

Start your morning at this cute, plant-based cafe. They serve excellent coffees, smoothies, and vibrant smoothie bowls like the spirulina-infused 'El Azul'.

Spend the afternoon walking through this beautiful, quiet neighborhood. Its tree-lined streets, quaint plazas, and historic architecture strongly resemble the charm of Paris.

Indulge in what many consider the best churros in Mexico. Order them fresh with cinnamon and sugar, try the different dipping sauces, and pair them with their rich, traditional hot chocolate.

Head to the 8th floor of the Sears building to find this cafe. It offers one of the most spectacular views of the Palacio de Bellas Artes. You only need to purchase a drink or pastry to access the terrace view.

Savor some of the absolute best al pastor tacos in the city. Be sure to also try their melted cheese with mushrooms served in warm tortillas.

Stroll through this peaceful art park dedicated to Frida Kahlo. It features beautiful green spaces, sculptures, and outdoor bodyweight gym equipment perfect for a quick family workout.

A vibrant, bustling market located a 15-minute walk from the park. It is a perfect one-stop shop for souvenirs, Lucha Libre masks, and fresh local fruits like mamey, tuna (cactus fruit), and mangoes, as well as fresh ceviche.

Visit the famous Blue House (Casa Azul), where Frida Kahlo was born, lived, and died. **CRITICAL:** You must book your tickets online weeks in advance; they sell out completely and are not sold at the door. Significant discounts are available for students and seniors.

Board a colorful trajinera boat for a festive cruise down the historic canals. Other boats will float by offering fresh food, drinks, and live Mariachi music. The experience is incredibly fun and best enjoyed with a larger group.

Stop by this legendary street food stand in Roma Norte. Famous for its incredible cheese pulls, you can grab phenomenal chicharrón or carne de res quesadillas for around 30 pesos each.

A fantastic late-night taco spot open 24 hours. Try the grilled cheese with mushrooms served in a cup with warm tortillas, or their highly rated al pastor and costra tacos.

A quaint, specialized spot for authentic, high-quality tamales. They offer delicious chicken tamales as well as excellent vegetarian options, with the rich mole tamale being a standout favorite.

Experience the high-energy acrobatics and theatrical fun of a live Lucha Libre wrestling match. Arena Coliseo is smaller and more intimate than Arena México, making the crowd energy and vibes absolutely electric.

Wake up before dawn for an unforgettable sunrise hot air balloon flight over the Teotihuacán valley. The 50-minute flight offers peaceful, sweeping views of the mountains and the massive pyramids below.

Explore the awe-inspiring Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon on foot. This archaeological site has absolutely no shade and intense sun, so bring a hat (or buy a local sombrero) and plenty of water.

Dine inside a spectacular, naturally formed volcanic cave located just a short walk from the pyramids. Enjoy traditional dishes like chilaquiles with mole, and participate in their symbolic candle-lighting ritual to ward off negative spirits.

Head back to the city to explore this massive three-story shopping mall built directly over the Buenavista train station. It is a bustling hub filled with shops, entertainment, and local eateries.

Located inside the Forum Buenavista mall, this incredibly popular spot is famous for its lightning-fast service and delicious, affordable pozole. Try the traditional pozole or the hearty vegetarian version with mushrooms and corn.

A short walk from the mall, this is one of the most architecturally stunning libraries in the world. It features towering, cantilevered bookshelves and transparent glass floors that make it feel like a futuristic museum.

Treat yourself to a slice of incredible Basque burnt cheesecake. It features a caramelized, crème brûlée-like top and a rich, creamy center. Pair it with an almond milk latte.

Explore the massive 'Central Park' of Mexico City. It is filled with green pathways, street vendors, performers, and cultural landmarks, and is especially lively on Sundays.

A historic castle perched atop Chapultepec Hill. You can hike up to tour the grand rooms and enjoy panoramic views of the city, or simply admire its impressive architecture from the park below.

Rent a fun swan-shaped paddle boat to cruise around the park's central lake. Note that it requires active pedaling, so make sure you have a few energetic family members ready to work!

Located inside Chapultepec Park, this world-class museum houses the world's largest collection of ancient Mexican art and artifacts. Note that it closes at 5:00 PM, so plan your visit early.

Even if you only view it from the outside, the striking, futuristic silver-tiled exterior of this museum is an architectural masterpiece and a must-see photo spot.

A creative vegan restaurant famous for its vibrant pink tortillas. Try their signature 'La Beta' tacos made with seasoned mushrooms and pineapple, served with excellent homemade salsas.

Embark on a spectacular day trip (approx. 3.5 to 4 hours each way). Arrive before opening to enjoy the stunning thermal pools, hanging bridge, turquoise river, waterfalls, and caves. Ziplining is available for an extra fee.

A popular late-night spot to satisfy your taco cravings after a long day trip. Try their signature Orinoco tacos or the cheese quesadillas served with fresh avocado and crispy tortilla chips.