Xochimilco

The floating gardens of Xochimilco make an easy half-day trip from Mexico City, and the quintessential way to explore is on board a traditional trajinera, a colorful boat that floats around the canals and islands.

Xochimilco tours are often combined with a Mexico City sightseeing tour, visits to historic sites such as the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) or the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan, or a tour of the Coyoacán neighborhood, where highlights include the Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum and the Frida Kahlo Museum.

• Opt for a 2-hour boat tour to fully explore the site.

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing so you can easily climb on and off the boats.

• Some of the larger trajineras offer food, drinks, and mariachi music on board.

The Gardens of Xochimilco are located about 14 miles (23 kilometers) south of the Zócalo in Mexico City. To get there by public transport, take Metro Line 2 to Tasqueña station. From there, the Tren Ligero trains run directly to Xochimilco; follow the signs to the "embarcadero" on arrival to take a boat ride.

Xochimilco can get crowded; locals and tourists alike visit on weekends and holidays. The festive atmosphere is all part of the experience, but opt for a weekday or early-morning visit if you prefer to avoid the crowds.

Xochimilco's floating gardens are the last vestige of Mexico's elaborate chinampas—the agricultural system set up by the ancient Aztecs. Devised to make the most of the fertile lake lands of the Anahuac Valley, the chinampas are comprised of small, man-made islands of farmland linked by a network of canals.

Though most of the Aztecs' massive system of canals has long since been drained, the suburb of Xochimilco offers a glimpse into the ancient beauty of Tenochtitlán, and the remarkably preserved site is now protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Yes, it is possible to visit Xochimilco without a guided tour. Just hop on a public bus or grab a taxi to get there, then head to the docks and rent a traditional trajinera boat to cruise the canals. Opt for an organized tour and enjoy the immersive commentary and round-trip transportation.

No. Reservations for Xochimilco tickets to explore by boat are optional. You can simply go to the docks and hire a trajinera on-site. If you prefer a specific time slot, want to ensure availability, or are traveling in a large group, booking an organized tour could be smart.

The ideal time to visit Xochimilco for a vibrant cultural experience is on Saturdays and Sundays. The weekend brings larger crowds, lively mariachi music, and a bustling atmosphere. If you prefer a quieter visit, weekdays offer a more serene environment with fewer people and a relaxed sightseeing experience.

Yes, Xochimilco is worth visiting. It's an immersive adventure where you hop on charming trajinera boats and cruise through the lively canals. You'll be enchanted by the floating gardens called chinampas and experience the authentic floating markets. Mouthwatering Mexican cuisine and live Mariachi music add a dose of cultural delight.

For your Xochimilco adventure, go for comfy and casual attire. It can get hot, so lightweight and breathable clothes are a safe choice. Remember a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to shield yourself from the sun. If you're there in the evening, pack a light jacket—it can get chilly.

Yes, absolutely! One of the highlights of Xochimilco is enjoying the festive atmosphere is sipping on your favorite beverages while cruising along the canals in a colorful trajinera (traditional boat) and listening to local mariachi bands. Bring your own drinks or purchase them from floating vendors selling beer, cocktails, wine, snacks, and traditional Mexican food.