An all-season guide to the best time to visit Mexico City

Cinco de Mayo in the spring or the Frida Kahlo Museum in the fall? Take your pick with this month-by-month guide to Mexico City.
An all-season guide to the best time to visit Mexico City

Mexico’s namesake capital, Mexico City, is a unique year-round destination where you can see Aztec monuments and towering skyscrapers all in one trip.

Wondering what the best time to visit Mexico City is? That depends on your travel style. Whether you want to explore outdoor attractions like the Teotihuacán Pyramids or experience the magic of Día de los Muertos in the fall, read on — this month-by-month guide to Mexico City breaks down the city’s climate and cultural events to help you decide when to go.

Choosing the best time to go to Mexico City

Best time for outdoor lovers

The dry season from November to April is the perfect time for outdoor lovers to visit Mexico City. Cool, dry weather with sunny days and minimal rain makes this the perfect season for hiking, biking, and exploring outdoor attractions like Chapultepec Park, Teotihuacán Pyramids, and Xochimilco.

Best time for people on a budget

If you’re traveling on a budget, save money by visiting Mexico City during the summer, from May to September. You’ll have to compromise on the weather, but the city is much quieter, meaning accommodation and flights are cheaper.

Best time for sightseeing

November to April is the best time to visit Mexico City for sightseeing. The weather is dry and pleasant, perfect for visiting landmarks like the Zócalo, Palacio de Bellas Artes, and Templo Mayor. Plan your trip around the world-famous Día de los Muertos celebrations in November for a unique cultural experience.

Mexico City throughout the seasons

Spring in Mexico City

March to May

Spring in Mexico City is cool, with increasing temperatures — 49 F to 80 F (9.44 C to 26.7 C) — and rainfall throughout the season. Don’t miss Cinco de Mayo at the beginning of May, a cultural celebration with traditional parades, fairs, exhibits, and concerts. Or visit for the Festival de México and the Carnival in Peñón de los Baños during March.

Summer in Mexico City

June to August

Summer in Mexico City is the peak wet season. Expect hot and humid conditions and heavy rainfall, especially in the afternoons. Temperatures average between 56 F to 77 F (13.3 C to 25 C). Summer music festivals like the indigenous Guelaguetza Festival are highlights of the season, while Pride Month in June brings colorful parades to the streets.

Fall in Mexico City

September to November

Fall in Mexico City marks the end of the wet season. Temperatures range between 47 F and 73 F (8.3 C and 22.8 C). At the beginning of November, check out the Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration, with its spectacular street parades and colorful costumes honoring the ancestors.

Winter in Mexico City

December to February

Winter in Mexico City is cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 44 F to 74 F (6.7 C to 23.3 C) — ideal weather for outdoor activities. Don’t miss the religious Las Posadas festival in December, a rich cultural experience. The holiday season brings fun family activities like Christmas in the Park, the Santa Run, and Christmas markets.

January in Mexico City

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Chapultec Castle is a stunning sight in any season.

January is one of the best times to visit Mexico City for outdoor activities. The weather is mild and dry, perfect for exploring Chapultepec Park and the canals of Xochimilco. Join the locals in celebrating Día de los Reyes Magos (Three Kings’ Day) on January 6 with the traditional Rosca de Reyes (sweet bread with a small figurine of baby Jesus in it) and parades. Or visit the Zona Maco Art Fair, Latin America’s largest contemporary art fair, at the end of January.

Weather

January is mild and dry, with temperatures from 44 F to 71 F (6.7 C to 21.7 C). Rainfall is minimal, and there’s plenty of sunshine.

Best outdoor activities in Mexico City

February in Mexico City

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Visit the Palacio de Bellas Artes in February to see mural paintings.

February is one of the best months for sightseeing in Mexico City. Explore the neighborhoods of Coyoacán and San Ángel, including Casa Azul (Frida Kahlo Museum) and El Bazar Sábado (Saturday Art Market). Don’t miss the Fine Arts Palace (Palacio de Bellas Artes), a prominent cultural center with immense murals by Mexican artists and white marble architecture. On February 2, try traditional tamales (steamed corn dumplings) and atole during the Día de la Candelaria (Candlemas) event. Or enjoy the festive parades and colorful costumes at the Peñón de los Baños Carnaval in February and March.

Weather

February weather is mild, dry, and sunny. Temperatures range from 46 F to 74 F (7.8 C to 23.3 C).

Top sightseeing experiences in Mexico City

March in Mexico City

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Enjoy dance performances at the Festival de México in March.

Wondering what to do in Mexico City in March? The Spring Equinox falls in the middle of the month, making it a magical time to visit the Teotihuacán Pyramids. Thousands of people gather at the pre-Hispanic site to honor the sun and welcome the arrival of spring. Back in the city center, warm and sunny weather is ideal for discovering outdoor markets like Mercado de Jamaica. Check out seasonal events like the Festival de México with music, dance, and opera, or the Peñón de los Baños Carnival in March.

Weather

March in Mexico City is warm and sunny with minimal rainfall. Temperatures average from 49 F to 77 F (9.4 C to 25 C).

April in Mexico City

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Take a day trip to Puebla for its colorful streets and traditional pottery.

Easter in Mexico City brings Semana Santa, or Holy Week. Experience religious processions and cultural events that honor the city’s Catholic heritage. April’s warm and dry weather is ideal for exploring landmarks like the Zócalo and Metropolitan Cathedral. Consider a day trip to Tepoztlán, an Aztec town just south of the city, or Puebla, known for its painted Talavera tiles, colonial architecture, and traditional pottery.

Weather

April is warm and dry with temperatures between 53 F to 79 F (11.7 C to 26.1 C) and plenty of sunshine.

Things to see and do in Zócalo

May in Mexico City

May brings the start of the wet season. Beat the afternoon showers by exploring indoor attractions like the National Museum of Anthropology or the Frida Kahlo Museum. Don’t miss Polanco’s Museo Soumaya and the Jumex Museum of Contemporary Art. Cinco de Mayo (May 5) is a highlight worth visiting Mexico City for this month. Parades, reenactments, fairs, and concerts commemorate Mexico’s victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

Weather

The wet season begins in May, and rainfall and humidity increase. Temperatures range between 56 F and 80 F (13.3 C and 26.7 C).

Must-visit museums in Mexico City

June in Mexico City

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June is the perfect time to catch a lucha libre show in Mexico City.

Wet season is in full swing in June, so dodge the rain with a visit to Casa Luis Barragán. Built in 1948, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the influential contemporary design of architect Luis Barragán. In the evening, watch a Lucha Libre wrestling show for a unique cultural experience. During the Corpus Christi festival, you can experience traditional processions, dances, food, and music. June also marks Pride Month, bringing vibrant parades and events to celebrate the city’s LGBTQ+ community.

Weather

Heavy rainfall and frequent showers dominate June, especially in the afternoons and evenings. Conditions are warm and humid with temperatures ranging from 57 F to 77 F (13.9 C to 25 C).

What to do on a rainy day in Mexico City

July in Mexico City

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Explore the Templo Mayor Museum to learn about Mexico City's history.

Wondering what to do in Mexico City in July? It’s the best month to explore indoor attractions like Palacio Nacional and the Templo Mayor Museum. For a taste of Mexican dining, don’t miss the fantastic Mercado de San Juan for fresh produce, locally-sourced fish and meat, and a bustling atmosphere. Enjoy the Feria de las Flores (Flower Fair) in Xochimilco, or catch the Guelaguetza Festival celebrating Oaxacan culture later in the month.

Weather

Rain season continues in July with heavy and frequent afternoon showers, so pack a raincoat. Temperatures average between 56 F to 74 F (13.3 C and 23.3 C).

Unmissable landmarks and monuments in Mexico City

August in Mexico City

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Watch fireflies light up the summer nights near Mexico City.

August remains wet, so escape the afternoon showers and visit the National Art Museum (Museo Nacional de Arte) or the Museum of Folk Art (Museo de Arte Popular). Or join a local cooking class to learn more about the capital’s culinary heritage. For something unique, check out the fireflies of Nanacamilpa, about a two-hour drive from Mexico City. During the rainy season, the fireflies of Central Mexico light up the night sky. On the last Sunday in August, enjoy live mariachi performances in Plaza Garibaldi during the International Mariachi Festival.

Weather

August is rainy, warm, and humid, with temperatures between 56 F and 74 F (13.3 C and 23.3 C).

Explore Mexico City’s best museums

September in Mexico City

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Visit the Biblioteca Vasconcelos, a must-see in Mexico City.

September is one of the best months to visit Mexico City for outdoor activities, festivals, and museum nights. Explore the Biblioteca Vasconcelos, a historic library, or the ancient archaeological site of Tlatelolco. Celebrate Mexican Independence Day on September 15 and 16 in the Zócalo with fireworks, music, and food. Follow up with Fiestas Patrias on September 17 and 18, celebrating national pride and culture. And don’t miss the Pulque y Mezcal Gastronomic Festival, featuring tasty local street food.

Weather

Wet season starts to slow down in September, but rainfall remains high this month. Temperatures average between 56 F and 73 F (13.3 C and 22.8 C).

Book archaeology tours in Mexico City

October in Mexico City

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Browse handicrafts at La Ciudadela Market in October.

October is a wonderful month to visit Mexico City, with less rainfall and mild temperatures. Nature lovers should explore Bosque de Tlalpan, a stunning national park with hiking trails and tree nurseries, just half an hour from the city. In the city, browse Ciudadela Market for local souvenirs and handicrafts. Día de la Raza on October 12 is a fantastic experience, celebrating Mexico’s multicultural heritage with parades, cultural events, and ancient rituals such as indigenous dances and offerings to Mother Earth.

Weather

Rainfall decreases in October, but showers still occur, especially in the afternoons. Expect temperatures from 52 F to 73 F (11.1 C to 22.8 C).

The most beautiful national parks in Mexico City

November in Mexico City

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Explore the landmarks along Mexico City's Paseo de la Reforma.

November is one of the best months to go to Mexico City for outdoor activities. Stroll along Paseo de la Reforma, the central avenue that runs through the city, to see landmarks like the Revolution Monument and the Angel of Independence. Enjoy a colorful boat ride in Xochimilco’s canals, and explore the trendy neighborhoods of Roma and Condesa with their cafes and boutiques. Visit at the start of the month to experience Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), with altars, parades, and offerings to the spirits of the dead. Later in the month, Revolution Day fills the city with more parades and cultural events.

Weather

November in Mexico City is cool and dry with minimal rainfall and more sunshine. Temperatures range from 47 F to 72 F (8.3 C to 22.2 C).

Check out these walking tours in Mexico City

December in Mexico City

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Christmas lights illuminate Mexico City on December nights.

December brings the holiday season to Mexico City. Visit Zócalo for its giant Christmas tree and ice-skating rink, or explore the neighborhoods of Polanco and Santa Fe for twinkling lights and holiday shopping. Visit traditional Christmas markets like Bazar de Navidad, and don’t miss Christmas in the Park at Six Flags México. End the year with New Year’s Eve fireworks and celebrations in the Zócalo.

Weather

December is cool and dry with minimal rainfall, plenty of sunshine, and temperatures between 44 F and 71 F (6.6 C and 21.6 C).

Soak up the holiday atmosphere in Mexico City

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Best time to visit Mexico City: FAQs

What are some must-see cultural attractions in Mexico City?
Mexico City is rich in cultural attractions, including the historic Zócalo, the impressive National Palace, and the iconic Metropolitan Cathedral. The city is also home to the Frida Kahlo Museum and the National Museum of Anthropology, which houses significant artifacts from Mexico’s pre-Columbian heritage. Exploring these sites provides a deep dive into the city’s vibrant history and culture.

Are there any unique festivals in Mexico City?

What is the typical weather like in Mexico City?

What are some popular activities to do in Mexico City?

What is the local cuisine like in Mexico City?