Mexico City on a Budget
A city where the exchange rate stretches most budgets a properly long way, and Chapultepec Park and street tacos both cost next to nothing, here’s how to keep the rest of the costs down too.
Mexico City is genuinely one of the more affordable major capitals in the world to visit, several of its best experiences, Chapultepec Park, street tacos, cost next to nothing. Here’s how to keep the rest of the costs down without cutting the trip short.
Chapultepec Park and Coyoacán’s streets are free
Walking Chapultepec Park, exploring Coyoacán’s Plaza Hidalgo and wandering Roma and Condesa’s streets costs nothing, only Casa Azul, Teotihuacan and specific museums charge admission. Several museums also offer free entry on Sundays for Mexican residents, worth checking if it extends to visitors on the day.
Visit outside major Mexican holidays for lower prices
Semana Santa and December holidays bring Mexico City’s highest hotel prices and heaviest domestic crowds. Booking outside these windows offers noticeably lower rates.
Use the Metro over taxis
Mexico City’s Metro is genuinely one of the cheapest metro systems in the world, considerably cheaper than taxis for nearly every journey. A rideshare is worth it for late-night trips or areas the Metro doesn’t reach well.
A taco stand beats a Roma tourist restaurant
Tacos al pastor from a proper trompo stand are widely a Mexico City institution, considerably cheaper than a sit-down restaurant in the trendier neighbourhoods. A mercado, a local market, remains one of the better cheap eats options too.
Consider Coyoacán or Doctores over Roma Norte
Hotels right in Roma Norte or Condesa sit at the top of the price range given their popularity. Coyoacán and Doctores, both a short Metro or rideshare ride away, run noticeably cheaper while offering a genuinely strong local character of their own.
That’s everything I’ve got.
A note before you plan around this: prices, opening hours, booking requirements and admission details in this guide were correct at the time of writing, but venues change these often and sometimes without notice. Always check directly with the attraction or its official website before you travel or build a schedule around a specific time or price.
Before travelling to any destination featured on this site, please also check your government’s latest travel advice, as safety situations, entry requirements and travel warnings can change.
