A Solo Travelers Guide to Mexico City
There’s something magical about travel that made me realize: I literally cannot survive without it. And even more than travel? Solo travel. Better yet—international solo travel.
I thought I knew the good life, but clearly, I had no idea.
This was my first solo trip abroad, and it was exactly what I needed. I didn’t really party or drink too much, but I embraced the experience like a local—living slow, letting each day surprise me. And just like that… four days turned into two weeks.
If I didn’t have responsibilities? Legend says she’d still be there, wandering the streets of CDMX. LOL.
Now, let’s be real—solo travel, especially somewhere you’ve never been, can be nerve-wracking (for you and your family). But it’s important to push past fear and see what’s on the other side. You might just surprise yourself.
What did I find? Keep reading to find out—along with my top recommendations across food, art, culture, and stay!
Stay:
So, why was I there?
In wanting to expand both my brand (and my palate) while creating more, I reached out to a boutique bed & breakfast for a potential collaboration. When they said yes? I couldn't say no. And I’m so glad I made the decision to keep putting myself out there.
Where would I recommend staying? El Patio 77, of course.
A true bed and breakfast in every sense—a gorgeous 8-room mansion with a delicious, traditional Mexican breakfast, fresh fruit, juice, granola made daily, and a welcoming staff and fellow travelers that made the experience feel so rich.
The Spanish colonial design, the spacious rooms, and the excellent water pressure in the showers? 10/10.
It’s in the heart of Mexico City, yet nestled in a quiet neighborhood that makes you feel like a local. Close to everything, but peaceful. Perfection.
Check out my full review of El Patio 77 here.
Food:
The food, the food, the food. The tacos, the tacos, the tacos. Refer to me as a tac-hoe at this point.
Listen—if there’s one thing I love in this world? It’s a taco.
(Blame it on my Houston days, where street tacos are a love language.)
CDMX brought me right back to those same bold, beautiful flavors—but this time? I was home.
The tacos were not only insanely delicious, but also incredibly affordable. I’m talking steak, birria, chicken, pastor—you name it. Not a single taco was left behind.
In NYC, you’ll find a mid taco for $3.50–$4.50 —blasphemy! But in Mexico City? You can get an actual taco—freshly made corn tortillas and all—for 29–36 pesos. That’s under $2! Even a Michelin- star rated taco stand (yep, that’s a thing), is cheaper than a NYC taco.
Most of this trip was tacos—stand tacos, local spots, fan faves, sit-down restaurants, hole in the walls, and the first Michelin-starred taco stand . I tried it all. Here are my absolute faves!
Orinico Taquiera - My goodness. Get the potatoes!
El Califa De Leon - The first Michelin Star rated taco stand.. and worth every star!
La Casa De Toño - The best Flautas!!
El Caminero - So good, they give an oddly amount of limes - but somehow it’s perfect!
Tacos Don Juan - Best birria!
Los Pastorcitos de Sirloin - so so good!! The sauces?? perfection.
Tortas Al Fuego - Hole in the wall.. go to that hole
Pro tip: Street vendors are cash-only, so bring pesos! Sit-down restaurants usually take card or tap-to-pay if you have it.
Cafés & Cocktails:
I had no idea how deep CDMX’s café culture ran, but wow.
As someone who creates from cafés daily—whether personal projects or client work—this was such a win. The vibes? Immaculate. The design? Stunning. And the pastries? Whew, I indulged. (Yes, there was gluten. No, I’m not sorry. I see you, lactose intolerants.)
From Roma Norte to Condesa, Juárez to San Rafael, there are endless beautiful spots to sip, work, and vibe. These are some of my favorites.
Baldio - great for food and a cocktail!
Niddo Cafe - Work to play, start with a latte, finish with a Carajillo, or more - and Don’t forget to indulge in the delicious pastries! Made fresh every day!
Aura - Connected to Orchid House Hotel - I promise it’s the best Passionfruit maragarita I’vve ever had in my life.
Melina Bistro - Start from breakfast to dinner, truly some of the best mocktails I’ve ever had, with a great coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner menu! I sat and worked until almost 12am one night!
Quentin Cafe - A vibe!! I ordered a Ginger soda, and it was delicious and made in house!
Libertario Coffee - The fanciest display of a latte I’ve ever had — Also a seasonal pastry that tasted like the best, most delicious and fancy berry toaster strudel ever.
Sala Gastronómica - Located inside the Anthropology Museum and is absolutelt deliocus - had the best passionfruit margarita, until I found Aura a few hours later
Art:
You already know I had to check out the art scene.
I think it’s essential when traveling—art helps you understand the voice of the people. Mexico City is overflowing with creativity, from world-renowned artists, designers, to dope, local creatives running their own galleries. I didn’t see as much as I’d like, but I explored smaller galleries, a record shop, The Anthropology Museum, and even got to meet a few incredible artists. Here are the ones that left a mark on me.
Anthropology Museum
Galeria Mascota
Roma Records
Galeria Ethra
A few things to remember:
Uber is safe and cheap. Take it—and tip well.
Speak to people! A simple “buenos días,” “buenas tardes,” or “buenas noches” goes a long way.
Respect the land. CDMX is bustling, but peaceful. I don’t know how they do it, but I love it.
Favorite neighborhoods? Condesa, Roma Norte, Juárez, and San Rafael. Try staying in a different area if you plan on staying for more than 4 days!
Learn a little Spanish. Don’t be shy—pull out that translator app.
Weather’s weird. Warm in the day, chilly at night. Bring a light jacket in spring.
Support local spots. They're where the magic happens.
Be safe. Be present.
And most of all? Have fun.
This trip was everything I needed. A reset. A reminder. A breath of fresh air from NYC’s constant motion. This trip was easygoing, for I had nowhere or anything to rush to.
It’s a place where you can chill or be on the go. The people are kind, the energy is warm, and you truly feel welcomed in this beautiful city. I’m already planning the next trip! Have you been? What did you think?
