Latin America
Ancient pyramids, world-class food, and a capital that never stops.
Mexico is a vast, vivid country of ancient civilisations, colonial cities, Caribbean and Pacific coasts, and a culture as rich and colourful as anywhere on earth. Mexico City, the sprawling high-altitude capital, is having a moment: a cultured megacity of Aztec ruins and grand plazas, leafy walkable neighbourhoods, some of the world's most exciting food (from street tacos to fine dining), and a warmth that surprises first-timers. Big, safe in its central barrios, and endlessly rewarding.
What things cost: Mexico City is good value — superb street tacos cost a euro or two, the metro is nearly free, and even smart restaurants undercut Western prices, though the trendiest neighbourhoods and mezcal bars are catching up. Tip 10–15%. When a zone below says 'low', that means low for the capital, which is affordable.
Sometimes the event picks the city for you.
One of Formula 1's most electric rounds, at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez — famous for its stadium section where a packed, roaring grandstand engulfs the cars. A huge weekend for the city, with concerts and a fiesta atmosphere; tickets and hotels go fast.
Mexico City · Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez
Mexico's most beautiful and famous celebration — families build marigold-strewn altars (ofrendas) to their dead, cemeteries glow with candles, and the streets fill with painted 'Catrina' skeletons and, in the capital, a huge parade. Joyful rather than morbid, and utterly unforgettable; book far ahead.
Mexico City · Citywide
The most important religious week of the year, when the Iztapalapa neighbourhood stages an epic, centuries-old Passion play watched by millions, with a huge procession up the Cerro de la Estrella. A profound, dramatic tradition; much of the city also empties for the holidays.
Mexico City · Iztapalapa & citywide
On the night of the 15th, hundreds of thousands pack the Zócalo to hear the president reenact the 'Grito de Dolores', the 1810 cry for independence, from the palace balcony, amid fireworks, music and a sea of green-white-and-red. A patriotic, electric fiesta, followed by a military parade next day.
Mexico City · The Zócalo
