Mexico City is a vibrant metropolis bursting with incredible flavors, rich history, and dynamic culture. It’s the kind of place where you could easily spend a fortune exploring its diverse offerings, but here’s the good news: you don’t have to. With street eats that wow your taste buds, hidden watering holes, and free or inexpensive cultural gems, experiencing the best of Mexico City is entirely possible on a budget.

Imagine feasting on savory tacos, sipping excellent tequila cocktails, and exploring centuries-old landmarks without breaking the bank. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it’s time to turn that dream into reality. Here’s how to make the most of a day in Mexico City, indulging in tacos, tequila, and the city’s rich culture, all for under $50.

Start Your Day with a Budget Breakfast

Mornings in Mexico City arrive with the enticing smells of street food wafting through the air. For a breakfast that’s both delicious and affordable, head to a local market like Mercado de Medellín or Mercado de la Merced.

What to Eat

Try a steaming hot tamal (singular for tamales) paired with a cup of atole, a warm, thick drink made from corn dough and flavored with ingredients like cinnamon or chocolate. Together, this classic Mexican breakfast costs around $2–$3, leaving plenty of room in your budget for the rest of the day.

If you’re a coffee lover, grab a cafecito from a street vendor for under $1. Enjoy it as you take in the energy of the bustling morning city.

Pro Tip

Markets are not just for food. Take a moment to soak in the local vibe, browse traditional crafts, and chat with the vendors.

Estimated cost so far: $4

Late Morning Culture Stop

Post-breakfast, it’s time to tap into Mexico City’s rich history. Thankfully, you don’t need a fancy budget to explore the city’s treasure trove of cultural attractions.

Must-See Destination

Visit the Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Museum of Anthropology), one of the world’s finest museums showcasing pre-Hispanic artifacts, including the famous Aztec Sun Stone. The museum’s admission fee is just around $4.

Prefer to stay outdoors? Take a free stroll through Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Forest), a sprawling urban park where you can people-watch, explore vendors’ stalls, or relax by the lake.

Estimated cost so far with museum entry added: $8

Tacos for Lunch

After walking around all morning, your appetite will be ready for a proper taco feast. Lucky for you, Mexico City is a taco lover’s paradise.

Go-To Lunch Spot

Head to a local taco stand (taquería) like El Huequito or Taquería Los Cocuyos, known for their mouthwatering tacos al pastor. These tacos feature marinated pork shaved straight off a vertical spit, served with pineapple, onion, and cilantro.

At most taco stands, you can enjoy three or four tacos for the equivalent of $4–$5. Pair your tacos with a sugary soda or fresh agua fresca, a refreshing fruit-based water that usually costs no more than $2.

Estimated cost so far: $14

Afternoon Adventures

Mexico City’s historic center is your next stop for the afternoon. Begin at the Zócalo, the city’s main square, and marvel at the sheer size of it. From here, explore the surrounding landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral (entry is free) or the ruins of Templo Mayor, an ancient Aztec temple ($4).

Another great choice is to visit the colorful Coyoacán neighborhood. This artsy area was once home to famed painter Frida Kahlo. You can even tour her iconic blue house-turned-museum, La Casa Azul, for about $9.

Wrapping up your cultural afternoon, consider treating yourself to an affordable sweet snack, like a churro from El Moro Churrería, where prices start at $2 for a classic churro with sugar.

Estimated cost so far with churros and one paid activity added: $27

Happy Hour the Mexican Way

As the sun starts to set, it’s time for tequila or mezcal. For a happy hour on a budget, check out casual bars in neighborhoods like Roma or Condesa.

Best Drinks Spots

Many bars offer generous happy hour specials with margaritas or mezcal shots for as little as $4–$6. Try places like La Clandestina, known for its wide mezcal selection, or Pulquería Las Duelistas, where you can try pulque, a frothy fermented drink with ancient roots.

Pair your drink with some light snacks, or be bold and order a full plate of tostadas or quesadillas to share. Even with a drink or two, you’ll likely spend no more than $12 here.

Estimated cost so far with happy hour drinks added: $39

Dinner That Keeps the Budget Intact

End your day on a high note with a satisfying, sit-down dinner that won’t burn your wallet. Stop by a casual fonda like Fonda Margarita, celebrated for hearty plates packed with local flavor.

Recommended Dishes

Try classic dishes like chiles rellenos (stuffed peppers) or tacos de guisado (stew tacos), along with a side of beans and rice. A meal here, including a non-alcoholic beverage, runs about $10–$12.

Not full yet? Treat yourself to an extra taco or dessert, like creamy flan or rice pudding, for just a couple more bucks. Even with the splurge, you’ll stay on budget.

Estimated cost so far, including dinner splurge: $50

Immerse Yourself in the Nightlife

If your budget allows for a final touch, end the day in one of Mexico City’s live music bars or free dance performances. On certain evenings, neighborhoods like Garibaldi Square light up with Mariachi bands offering impromptu serenades.

Even if you don’t spend on drinks here, the electric atmosphere is priceless and the perfect way to cap off your budget-friendly day in Mexico City.