Flights to Mexico City with Air France from GBP 685*

Mexico, one of the largest cities in the world

Mexico, more often called Ciudad de Mexico (Mexico City), is in the heart of Mexico and is one of the most populated cities in the world. It was built on an island in Lake Texcoco during the 14th century. Mexico had a population boom at the beginning of the 20th century and now the greater area has over 23 million inhabitants. It is the world's second most populated city after Tokyo. Mexico is surrounded by mountains in the south, east and north, such as the Sierras de las Cruces and the Sierra de Guadalupe. Mexico has a rich history of exchange between different Latin American, North American and European cultures. The cradle of Mayan and Aztec civilisations, Mexico is composed of many different ethnic groups. Although Spanish is the official language, many other indigenous languages such as Nahuatl are still spoken by some Mexicans. The distinct Mexican culture still influences neighbouring countries such as the United States. Air France offers daily flights between London-Mexico.

Discover Mexico City

Mexico has an area of about 1 500 square kilometres. The city, like the country, can be visited according to geographic regions since it is so vast. In some areas, you can see ruins and archaeological Aztec relics. Mexico City was in fact built on the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. Among the emblematic monuments in the capital's historical centre you can admire:

The Zocalo area with el Templo Mayor,one of the city's main Aztec relics, the National Palace and the Cathedral.

In the Alameda district, there is the Palacio de Bellas Artes, the Alameda Central Park, the Palacio de Correo or the Postal Palace.

If the weather is clear, go to the 182-meter high Torre Latino-Americana for a lovely panoramic view of the city. Also see the Juarez Monument.

Mexico has many varied neighbourhoods, each with their own specificities. You must visit the castle and park in Chapultepec. The National Museum of History is in the castle. Chapultepec Park is one of the largest parks in the world. The National Museum of Anthropology is also in this neighbourhood.

Condesa is a middle-class, trendy neighbourhood in Mexico where there are many restaurants. The Zona Rosa neighbourhood is also quite touristic with many places to visit. Finally, if you want to discover and listen to the famous mariachis, go to the Plaza Garibaldi in the evening, the romantic meeting place.

Around Mexico City

During your trip to Mexico City, don't hesitate to leave the city to discover other landscapes.

The sun pyramid at Teotihuacan: on UNESCO's World Heritage list, the Teotihuacan site is one of Mexico's most important archaeological sites. It is a group of pyramids dating back to 200 BC.

Xochimilco: A few kilometres from Mexico, is one of the favourite destinations for Mexicans and tourists alike to have fun on a week-end. The rest of the time, you can ride in colourful boats along the canals.

Acapulco: Mexico's legendary beach, Acapulco is located about 400 kilometres from Mexico City. It is the perfect place to relax, practice water sports and enjoy the sun. Acapulco has one of the most beautiful bays in the world, Santa Lucia.

Vera Cruz: a very animated city, Vera Cruz is known for its beaches as well as its carnival that takes place every year in February.

Practical information about Mexico

During your trip to Mexico, you should take certain precautions. Inquire at the Tourist Office in Mexico to know which neighbourhoods tourists should avoid. Mexico has several climates, depending on the region. In Mexico City, the temperatures are mild. It is best to go between October and April if you want to take advantage of the sun and enjoy the beaches. Hurricane season is during September and October. Discover all of our tips for preparing your luggage before a trip.