09:00

Zócalo and Templo Mayor

Spend the morning at Plaza de la Constitución, taking in the square and the buildings around it, then head to the Templo Mayor archaeological site. Allow about 2–3 hours for the visit and museum; admission to the site can cost approximately 100–120 MXN, while the square is open without a ticket. Explore the center on foot and plan a stop for water or breakfast, from about 60–150 MXN.

For tickets, entry details, and visiting conditions at the archaeological site, check the official information before you go.

14:30

Palace of Fine Arts

Reach the palace on foot in about 15–20 minutes through the city center, or use an authorized taxi if you prefer to avoid the walk. Allow 1–2 hours for the facade, the accessible interior spaces, and any exhibitions or activities; access to the exhibition areas may cost around 80–100 MXN, while events have separate fees. For lunch nearby, budget about 150–300 MXN per person.

Schedules, room access, and fees may vary: check the official Palacio de Bellas Artes website.

09:00

National Museum of Anthropology

Set aside at least 3 hours for the galleries, organized around the cultures of ancient Mexico and Indigenous peoples; choose a few sections in advance so you are not rushing through the visit. From the city center, a taxi takes about 20–35 minutes, with an estimated cost of 100–220 MXN depending on traffic and departure point, or you can go by metro and walk; admission may be around 100–120 MXN. Plan on 120–250 MXN for a simple meal in the area.

Check the official website for updated prices, photography rules, and access information.

13:30

Chapultepec Castle

From the museum, cross Bosque de Chapultepec and reach the castle on foot in about 20–30 minutes, taking into account the climb and the distances within the park. Allow 2–3 hours for the historic rooms, collections, and viewpoints; the ticket may cost around 100–120 MXN. Bring water and comfortable shoes: a drink or snack nearby may cost about 40–100 MXN.

Access to the castle may involve walking uphill; check the official website for current conditions, tickets, and accessibility.

08:30

Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul)

Reach Casa Azul in Coyoacán by taxi or ride-hailing app, taking about 30–50 minutes from the center and costing roughly 120–250 MXN, depending on traffic. Set aside 1.5–2 hours for the house, personal belongings, and the garden; admission may cost around 300–400 MXN. Also factor in the walk to the neighborhood’s central square.

Advance booking may be required or recommended: check availability and rates on the museum’s official website.

11:00

Coyoacán neighborhood

Explore the center of Coyoacán on foot, including Plaza Hidalgo, Jardín Centenario, and the surrounding streets, allowing about 1.5–2 hours. The squares and streets are free to visit; for coffee or a snack, budget around 60–160 MXN, while a casual lunch can cost 150–300 MXN. From the neighborhood, reach your chosen dock by taxi or public transport in about 30–50 minutes, with an estimated cost of 80–200 MXN.

Arrange the departure dock and the onward transfer in advance: traffic can significantly increase travel times.

13:30

Xochimilco (trajinera ride)

From the dock, for example Nuevo Nativitas, arrange a trajinera ride of about 1.5–2 hours to see the canals and floating gardens. The fee is usually charged per boat rather than per passenger: expect an estimated cost of 600–800 MXN per hour to be split with the group, and confirm the duration and price before boarding. To continue to the Basilica, allow about 60–90 minutes by taxi or private car, with an estimated cost of 250–450 MXN depending on traffic and your starting point.

Agree on the duration and fare before departure and check the current rules at the dock.

17:30

Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe

End the route at the Basilica complex, allowing 1.5–2 hours to visit the accessible areas and admire the sanctuary’s architecture. Entry to the religious spaces is generally free, but specific activities or areas may have different conditions; check the official information before visiting. If you return by metro, allow for an estimated cost of about 5 MXN per ride, plus the time needed to reach the station.

Keep in mind that the complex is a place of worship and pilgrimage: dress respectfully and check for any visitor guidelines.