Mexico City (Ciudad de México, CDMX) is one of the largest and most vibrant metropolises in the world, serving as the political, cultural, and economic heart of Mexico. This ancient city, built on the ruins of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan, blends pre-Hispanic heritage with colonial architecture and ultramodern neighborhoods. From world-class museums and gourmet restaurants to bustling markets and stunning murals, Mexico City offers an unparalleled urban experience.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Talavera Pottery
Hand-painted ceramic tableware, tiles, and decorative pieces in the blue-and-white (and multicolor) Talavera style from Puebla. Authentic pieces carry a certification stamp on the base. Small dishes and tiles make packable gifts; larger vases and platters are stunning but fragile for travel.
Alebrijes
Brightly painted fantastical carved animal figures, originally from Oaxaca (wood) and also produced as papier-mâché in Mexico City by artisans following the Linares family tradition. Sizes range from palm-sized figurines to large sculptural pieces.
Mezcal
Artisanal, small-batch mezcal from Oaxaca, Guerrero, and other producing states, sold in labeled bottles at markets and specialty mezcalerías. Look for labels stating the agave variety and village of origin. Must travel in checked luggage due to glass and liquid restrictions.
Frida Kahlo Merchandise
Prints, tote bags, notebooks, magnets, and clothing featuring Frida Kahlo's self-portraits, sold widely in Coyoacán near the Museo Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul) and at artisan markets citywide. Quality and originality vary widely — official museum shop items tend to be better made than street-stall versions.
Taxco Silver Jewelry
Sterling silver (.925) jewelry in designs originating from the silversmithing town of Taxco, Guerrero, widely sold in Mexico City at La Ciudadela and Centro Histórico silver shops. Look for the '.925' hallmark stamped into the piece to confirm sterling silver content.
Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) Crafts
Painted clay Catrina figurines, papel picado (perforated tissue paper banners), sugar skulls, and miniature ofrenda decorations, sold year-round at artisan markets and especially abundant in the weeks before November 1-2.
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela
Mexico City's premier artisan market with over 300 stalls selling crafts from all 32 Mexican states. The best one-stop shop for authentic Mexican artisanal goods — Talavera pottery, silver jewelry, alebrijes (painted animal figures), huipiles, hand-woven textiles, leather goods, and more. Prices are negotiable.
Hours: Daily 10:00am-7:00pm
Mercado de San Juan
Mexico City's premium gourmet market since 1956, selling imported cheeses, artisan charcuterie, fresh seafood, Japanese ingredients, truffle products, exotic fruits, and specialty Mexican items. Also has a section of small restaurants.
Hours: Daily 9:00am-8:00pm
Mercado de Jamaica
Mexico City's legendary wholesale flower market, one of the largest in the world. While primarily wholesale, individual buyers are welcome. Extraordinary displays of roses, orchids, marigolds (cempasúchil), and exotic tropicals. Most spectacular around Día de Muertos.
Hours: Open 24 hours
Mercado La Lagunilla
Mexico City's best antiques market, operating Sundays with hundreds of stalls selling vintage items, colonial-era furniture, pre-Hispanic reproductions, old photographs, vintage clothing, and collectibles. The Sunday outdoor section is the most interesting.
Hours: Sunday 9:00am-6:00pm (antiques section); indoor stalls daily
Mercado de la Merced
One of the largest markets in Latin America for fresh produce, dried chiles, spices, and everyday goods. While not primarily a tourist market, it offers an authentic slice of Mexico City commercial life.
Hours: Daily 7:00am-6:00pm
Mercado de Coyoacán
Coyoacán's charming neighborhood market combines fresh food, prepared food stalls (famous tostadas), and artisan craft vendors. A lovely, more relaxed market environment compared to the downtown options.
Hours: Daily 9:00am-7:00pm