Mexico City, a vibrant blend of culture, history, and football passion, welcomed me with open arms on my short trip from Houston, Texas. My main goal was to explore the city and soak in the energy of its preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the experience turned out to be so much more. Here’s a recap of my exciting three-day trip.

Arrival in Mexico City

The journey began with a smooth two-hour flight from Houston to Mexico City. Upon arrival, I breezed through customs in about 15 minutes – a surprisingly quick process. From there, I booked an Uber, which arrived in just seven minutes. My driver, though only a bit fluent in English, was incredibly friendly, making the 30-minute, 7.5 km (4.6 miles) ride to my hotel quite enjoyable.

My hotel was situated in a prime location, right behind the Metropolitan Cathedral and within walking distance of the Templo Mayor archaeological site. The staff gave me a warm welcome, but after a long day, I headed straight to bed to prepare for the adventures ahead.

Exploring the Azteca and Coyoacán

The next morning, I started my day with an Uber ride to the legendary Estadio Azteca, one of the key venues for the upcoming FIFA 2026 World Cup. The ride cost me about $7, a bargain for the 30-minute drive. Unfortunately, the stadium was closed for tours due to ongoing renovations, but just standing outside the colossal structure was exhilarating.

Not wanting to waste the day, I explored Coyoacán, the charming neighborhood surrounding the stadium. Known for its cobblestone streets, vibrant atmosphere, and historic landmarks, it’s a must-visit in Mexico City. During my two-hour tour, I stumbled upon a delightful restaurant where I had a hearty breakfast for under $10.

Dinner that evening was back at my hotel’s restaurant, Hotel Catedral. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food – delicious, authentic, and reasonably priced.

Day 2: Historical and Cultural Immersion

I started my second day with a buffet breakfast at the hotel, which cost around $12 and was worth every penny. I then ventured into the heart of Mexico City’s “Centro Histórico.” The area is alive with culture, history, and the hum of daily life. Walking past the Metropolitan Cathedral and Templo Mayor ruins was like stepping back in time.

The vibrant streets, bustling markets, and stunning colonial architecture kept me captivated throughout the day. Every corner revealed something new – street performers, local crafts, and enticing food stalls.

Day 3: Revolution Day Festivities

On my final day, November 20, I had the incredible luck of witnessing *Día de la Revolución* (Revolution Day). This annual celebration marks the start of the Mexican Revolution in 1910.

The highlight of the day was the grand military parade that filled the streets with patriotic fervor. Soldiers marched in uniform, bands played traditional tunes, and floats depicted scenes from Mexican history. The energy and pride in the air were contagious, making it the perfect ending to my trip in Mexico City, Next stop Guadalajara, Mexico.

Final Thoughts

Mexico City exceeded all my expectations. From the historic landmarks to the friendly locals, affordable dining, and rich cultural experiences, it’s a destination worth exploring. Though I couldn’t tour Estadio Azteca, just being there and feeling the anticipation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup made the trip worthwhile.

Whether you're visiting for the World Cup or just for an unforgettable vacation, Mexico City is ready to welcome you with open arms. Don’t miss the chance to Explore this incredible city!