
Quick Guide to Exploring Mexico City: Best Spots for First timers
Mexico City is an amazing destination that offers a wide range of experiences. It’s the perfect blend of history, modernity, and gastronomic heritage. For first-time visitors, navigating this huge city can feel overwhelming. To help you make the most of your trip, here are three of the best things to do in Mexico City, focusing on safe and iconic spots near downtown.
1. VISIT THE ZÓCALO AND DISCOVER WHY IT AMAZES VISITORS Location: Centro Histórico

2. VISIT CHAPULTEPEC CASTLE Location: Chapultepec Forest
Did you know that Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec) is the only royal castle in the Americas? Its neoclassical architecture seamlessly blends European grandeur with Mexican history.
During the 1847 Battle of Chapultepec in the Mexican-American War, six teenage military cadets, known as the Niños Héroes, sacrificed their lives defending the castle. Their bravery is commemorated by the mural El Sacrificio de los Niños Héroes by Gabriel Flores. Later, Emperor Maximilian I of Habsburg and Empress Carlota made it their official residence.
Visit this 19th-century treasure and take in one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Mexico City from its terraces, which once served as an astronomical observatory in the same century.
To-Do’s:
- Avoid weekend crowds by visiting on weekdays.
- Explore the National Museum of History (Museo Nacional de Historia), located inside the castle.
- Is a long tour, so consider having a snack beforehand.

3. Walk along Paseo de la Reforma and visit the Ángel de la IndependenciaLocation: Paseo de la Reforma
This iconic boulevard is Mexico City’s main avenue, embellished with skyscrapers, museums, and historical monuments.
The Angel of Independence (El Ángel) is one of the city’s most recognizable monuments. This golden-winged statue was inaugurated in 1910 to commemorate Mexico’s independence from Spain. It also serves as a meeting point for protests and a celebration site, also a favorite photo spot
Reforma isn´t just a historic avenue, it's also Mexico City´s main financial district, home for luxury hotels and corporate headquarters. On Sundays it transforms into a cyclist and pedestrian paradise, as part of Muévete en Bici program, where streets are closed to traffic, allowing visitors to bike, jog or walk freely.
An interesting fact about this beautiful avenue is that it was originally built in 1864 to connect Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec) and the National Palace (Palacio Nacional)
To-Do’s:
- Wear comfortable shoes and apply sunscreen.
- Bring your camera for the classic Ángel photo.
- Take a longer walk to explore other historical sites like Fuente de la Diana and Monumento a la Revolución.
Enjoy a 360° experience with us!
Walking through these spots is an incredible way to explore the city, but imagine discovering them on a bike tour with a local guide, you’ll enjoy your trip even more! At Bikes and Munchies, we don’t just offer guided bike tours, we make you fall in love with Mexico City and take home unforgettable memories!
Why Choose Us?
- Our tours combine history, culture, and gastronomy.
- We have expert guides who bring the city to life.
- You’ll taste the best traditional Mexican local dishes during the tour.
Explore the city sustainably on our eco-friendly bikes.