The Best Times to Visit Mexico City

There’s simply no bad time of year to visit Mexico City. However, certain seasons offer unique experiences that can enhance your trip. Ideal for almost every kind of traveler, the capital city woos visitors with its extensive and affordable hotel options, consistently temperate weather, and a vast array of cultural sights and activities.

As one of the world’s largest cities, it can feel overwhelming, but it’s a city of neighborhoods, each uniquely charming and full of character. Moreover, the different areas host numerous celebrations throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening.

Fall is when the biggest festivals take place, summer is the quietest, and in winter, you’ll notice restaurants and stores close around the holidays. Here’s everything you need to know about when to visit Mexico City.

March to May: Best for Sunseekers

The period from March to May marks the beginning of the city’s most idyllic weather, with highs around 26°C (mid to high 70°F). Consequently, it is one of the most popular times to visit, making it crucial to secure travel plans early. The annual blossoming of the city’s purple jacaranda trees occurs between late February and March, signaling the onset of spring.

Jacaranda enthusiasts should stroll down the Paseo de Reforma, where both sides burst into full color. Rock music fans can also enjoy the annual Vive Latino festival in March.

April is marked by Semana Santa (Holy Week), which spans from Palm Sunday through Easter Sunday. While Mexico City is not particularly known for its religiosity, many Mexican families take a two-week vacation during this time, leaving the city relatively quiet.

Although Cinco de Mayo is not heavily celebrated in the capital, May still offers lovely weather, making it a perfect time for visitors. Additionally, the Feria de las Culturas Amigas occurs at the end of the month, bringing a festive atmosphere to the streets.

June to August and December to February: Ideal for Budget Breaks

The summer months (June to August) coincide with Mexico’s rainy season. Daytime highs remain around 26°C (79°F), but frequent afternoon downpours can occur. This slower season offers some hotels at discounted rates. Moreover, the rain helps clear Mexico City’s notoriously bad air pollution.

• Explore outdoor markets during this time.
• Try seasonal local fruits and vegetables; mangoes are particularly delicious in July.
• Clear skies following rainstorms in August create ideal conditions for cycling.

Starting in December, the coolest and driest months herald great opportunities for budget travel. Las posadas (Christmas parties) are a national tradition, featuring gatherings with piñatas, traditional songs, and warm fruit punch. Many local restaurants and businesses tend to provide employees with a winter break from Christmas through New Year’s.

As a result, this can be a quieter time to explore the city. For those interested in cultural experiences, Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe on December 12th attracts pilgrims aiming to honor the patron saint of Mexico.

Despite being one of the coldest months, January still experiences highs of 20-22°C (68-71°F). After sunset, a jacket is advisable, as many buildings lack central heating. Bakeries offer Rosca de Reyes on January 6th, a circular cake prepared for Día de los Reyes.

February welcomes art lovers as local hipsters clash with international collectors during the city’s major art fairs.

September to November: Best for Experiencing Mexican Culture

Visiting between September and November allows for immersion in some of the city’s most popular cultural activities. Although the weather starts to cool in November, the fall season brings festivals like Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

September features mild yet rainy weather. For a vibrant display of patriotism, visit in mid-September to celebrate Mexican Independence Day.

Though Día de los Muertos occurs in early November, the celebrations begin in October, as local shops prepare sugar skulls and pan de muerto (bread of the dead). Altars to the deceased can be seen throughout the city, adding to the cultural experience.

The end of October also marks the arrival of the exciting Formula 1 event, drawing an international audience to the city.

November is particularly festive with vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations, showcasing local customs and traditions. The city becomes adorned with marigolds, and individuals don skeletal face paint, enhancing the cultural atmosphere of the capital during this time.