Are These 14 Mexico City Travel Tips Genius or Just Crazy? (2025)

We didn’t believe some of these tips at first, but once we tried them, they completely changed our trip. To save you from learning the hard way, we have here some Mexico travel tips that will make your travel to Mexico so much better.

Travel Tips for Mexico City

Here are the 14 travel tips to Mexico City that sound odd at first but will make a huge difference once you try them:

1. Stay Hydrated to Avoid Altitude Sickness

Mexico City sits at 7,300 feet (2,240 meters) above sea level. That means the air is thinner, and you might feel tired or lightheaded at first. 

You better drink lots of water (electrolyte drinks like Electrolitos help, too), take it easy on alcohol, and don’t overdo it on your first day.

2. Throw Toilet Paper in the Trash, Not the Toilet

This one surprises a lot of people (even us). Mexico City’s plumbing isn’t designed for toilet paper, so always throw it in the trash bin next to the toilet. If you don’t, well… let’s just say you might regret it.

3. Eat Street Food, But Be Careful Where You Buy It

Street food in Mexico City is great, such sa tacos, quesadillas, and tamales. Just make sure you eat at busy stalls where locals go (if there’s a line, it’s probably good). 

If you have dietary restrictions, be aware that many street vendors cook with lard or cross-contaminate with meat.

And if you’re worried about spice levels, ask before you load up on salsa. The word to remember is “picante” (spicy). If someone warns you, believe them.

4. Tip at Least 10-15% in Restaurants and Cafés

Tipping is expected in Mexico City. Leave 10-15% at restaurants and coffee shops and up to 20% if the service is outstanding. 

Grocery store baggers, valets, and hotel staff also appreciate small tips (usually 5-10 pesos).

5. Make Restaurant and Museum Reservations in Advance

Mexico City has some of the best restaurants in the world. If you want to eat at places like Pujol or Quintonil, book a table weeks (or even months) ahead. 

The same goes for the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Luis Barragán House—tickets sell out quickly. Plan your itinerary around these must-visit spots to avoid missing out.

6. Stay at Least Four Days to Explore Without Rushing

Mexico City is massive, and there’s a lot to see. A four- to five-day trip gives you time to see neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa, plus big attractions like Chapultepec Castle and Anthropology Museum. 

To make the most of your time, book a guided tour of Chapultepec Castle and the Anthropology Museum now.

But if you’re short on time, we suggest you pick a few must-visit places instead of trying to do it all.

7. Drink Bottled or Filtered Water—Not Tap Water

Tap water in Mexico City isn’t safe to drink, even for locals. Use bottled or filtered water for drinking, and if you have a sensitive stomach, use it for brushing your teeth too. 

Restaurants must provide free filtered water if you ask, so don’t pay for bottled water at sit-down places.

8. Use Uber or Didi Instead of Public Transport for Safety

Public transport is super cheap, but it gets packed, especially during rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM and 5:30-8 PM). If you’re using the Metro, watch your stuff because pickpockets love it there. Buses are slow, and biking is an option, but traffic is intense.

We suggest you use Uber or Didi here. Didi is slightly cheaper than Uber, so download both apps before you arrive.

9. Keep Mexican Pesos on Hand for Small Purchases

Mexico City is modern, but cash is still useful in many places. ATMs are easy to find, but avoid using them at night or in isolated areas. 

Always carry small bills and coins for tips and street food vendors. Some places accept US dollars, but you’ll get a bad exchange rate. It’s better to just stick to Mexican pesos.

10. Follow Local Safety Protocols for Earthquakes

Mexico City gets occasional earthquakes, but locals are used to it. There’s a seismic alarm system that gives a warning before one hits. 

If you hear it, stay calm and follow the locals. Every building has an evacuation plan, and most places are built to handle quakes.

11. Pack a Light Jacket and Comfortable Shoes for Exploring

Mexico City’s weather is pretty mild year-round, but the rainy season (June to October) can surprise you with quick rain. Pack a light, waterproof jacket, but don’t bother bringing an umbrella as locals sell them cheap on the streets. 

Also, wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be walking a lot (and some sidewalks are surprisingly uneven).

12. Visit in Spring for the Best Weather

Spring (March to May) is the sweet spot—not too hot, not too rainy, and the jacaranda trees are in full bloom, making the city look magical. 

Avoid September if you hate rain (like us), and December is great if you want to see Christmas decorations.

13. Learn Basic Spanish Phrases for Easier Communication

Most people in the tourism industry speak some English, but learning a few Spanish words helps. Here are some basics:

Hola – Hello

Gracias – Thank you

Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?

Dónde está el baño? – Where’s the bathroom?

La cuenta, por favor. – The check, please.

If all else fails, Google Translate is your friend.

14. Buy These Unique Souvenirs Before You Leave

Forget the generic fridge magnets. Before you leave Mexico City, a bottle of mezcal or tequila makes a great souvenir (and a better drink). 

If you like jewelry, check out silver pieces from Taxco, a city known for its craftsmanship. Mole sauce is another great find (my personal favorite). It’s a rich, complex sauce used in traditional Mexican dishes. 

And for something truly unique, visit markets like La Ciudadela for beautiful handmade crafts.