Half-Day Excursions from Mexico City

In this series, iBestTravel’s team of writers and editors answers your travel problems and provides tips and hacks for a hassle-free journey.

Question:

I’m spending a few days in Mexico City and would like to get out of the center on a half-day excursion. Any ideas that won’t involve pricey drivers?

Response:

You don’t have to venture far to escape the vibrant hustle of Mexico City’s core. Using just a single Metro fare of five pesos (approximately 30 cents), here are two quintessentially Mexican half-day experiences.

Planning Tip:

Since the Mexico City Metro has eliminated paper tickets, you’ll need to obtain a Tarjeta MI (costing about $1) from an electronic kiosk to pay your fare. The Metro system is notably clean and efficient; however, be mindful of your belongings to avoid pickpockets.

Make a Mini Pilgrimage to the Basílica de Guadalupe

One of the most revered places in Latin America is only a few Metro stops from the bustling Zócalo. Regardless of your faith, the Basílica de Guadalupe offers a solemn atmosphere reflective of the rich culture and diversity of Mexican society.

In 1531, a Chichimec convert named Juan Diego had visions of the Virgin Mary, whose image was miraculously imprinted on his tilma. Today, Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe stands as a significant religious icon in Mexico, attracting the faithful from across the globe.

Within the vast Plaza Mariana, pilgrims gather to participate in hourly masses held in the enormous basilica, accommodating up to 40,000 worshippers. Here, above the altar, the Virgin — as depicted on Juan Diego’s tilma — watches over the congregation. A lower level, accessible from a side entrance, allows visitors to view the icon from below.

You can deepen your experience with a short walk up a hill adorned with small shrines leading to the baroque Capilla del Cerrito. On your descent, you will encounter additional gardens and chapels that provide peaceful spots for reflection.

Planning Tip: Visitors of all beliefs are welcome; respect is paramount. To honor the sanctity of the site, it is advisable to dress modestly and speak softly.

Go for a Float in Xochimilco

If you’re in the mood for a more lively outing, spending an afternoon on the canals of Xochimilco is a memorable experience. This historic area suggests what Mexico City might have looked like ages ago, when a large lake dominated the landscape.

Accessing the canals is simple via the light-rail line (Tren Ligero) from the Tasqueña Metro station, leading you to Xochimilco’s main embarcadero, Nuevas Nativitas. Despite the presence of touts aiming to guide you elsewhere, staying put at Nuevas Nativitas ensures a vibrant experience surrounded by countless trajineras, the colorful boats unique to this area.

Before hopping aboard, it is essential to negotiate a rate with your captain. Weekdays offer some bargaining power; however, weekends yield higher rates of 500 pesos ($28) per hour, which covers the whole boat—not per person—making it more feasible with friends.

As your captain gently guides the motorless trajinera through the canals, you will encounter a unique tapestry of life—couples enjoying intimate moments, families celebrating, and musicians serenading via mariachi bands. The lively atmosphere, accompanied by joyful voices and music, creates an unforgettable experience.

Planning Tip: To fully enjoy your outing, bring your own picnic, as food and drinks from vendors tend to be overpriced. Picking up some cold beverages before your excursion keeps you in tune with the local traditions.