How to Plan a Family Trip to Mexico City
Mexico City works great for families with kids 8 and up who can handle some walking. Plan 5-6 days, stay in Roma Norte or Polanco, and mix museums with parks. The metro system makes getting around cheap and easy.
- Pick your neighborhood base. Stay in Roma Norte for walkable restaurants and cafes, or Polanco for upscale family hotels near Chapultepec Park. Both have good metro connections. Avoid Centro Histórico with kids under 12 - too crowded and chaotic.
- Book family-friendly accommodations. Look for hotels or Airbnbs with connecting rooms or suites. Many mid-range hotels in Polanco have pools. Book at least 6 weeks ahead for December-January and Easter week when Mexican families travel.
- Plan around kid energy levels. Schedule museums and indoor activities for mornings when kids are fresh. Plan park time or pool time for hot afternoons (2-5pm). Keep evenings light - maybe just dinner and early bedtime.
- Download offline maps and translation apps. Mexico City's wifi can be spotty. Download Google Translate for Spanish and offline maps. The metro map app 'Metro CDMX' works offline too.
- Prepare for altitude. Mexico City sits at 7,350 feet. Kids might feel tired or get headaches the first 2 days. Pack children's ibuprofen and plan easier activities for day 1.
- Is Mexico City safe for families?
- Yes, in tourist areas and middle-class neighborhoods like Roma Norte and Polanco. Use common sense - don't flash valuables, stay in well-lit areas at night, and use official transportation.
- What age kids work best for Mexico City?
- Ages 8 and up handle the walking, crowds, and cultural sites better. Younger kids can work but need more downtime and simpler itineraries.
- How do we get around with kids?
- Metro is cheap and efficient but can be crowded. Uber works well for family groups. Walking is necessary but distances are manageable in each neighborhood.
- What if my kids are picky eaters?
- Mexico City has international food options in Roma Norte and Polanco. Many Mexican dishes are kid-friendly - quesadillas, plain rice and beans, fresh fruit. Street corn is usually a hit.