Plaza de la Constitución (Zócalo)

The basics

The Zócalo is a gathering place for political protest and cultural celebration and a good place for visitors to get a taste of Mexico City. Tour the National Palace (Palacio Nacional) on the Zócalo's east side, where massive murals by Diego Rivera depict the nation’s history. Step inside the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana) for a look at religious colonial art. Or, tour the archeological finds at Mexico City Great Temple (Templo Mayor).

Visit the Zócalo independently or as part of a Mexico City sightseeing tour—on foot, by bike, or even via Segway. Tours typically include stops at major attractions, such as Bellas Artes and Plaza Garibaldi, and there’s also a popular Teotihuacan pyramids tour to consider.

Things to know before you go

• Many Mexico City sightseeing tours include round-trip transport.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection and plenty of water.

• Be mindful of belongings and surroundings to avoid theft, especially at night.

• Mexico City sits 7,350 feet (2,240 meters) above sea level, and the altitude can be a problem for some visitors.

How to Get There

There are several ways to reach the Zocalo, located in Mexico City’s Centro Historico. Most visitors arrive as part of a Mexico City sightseeing tour or by public transport—Metro Zocalo station (Line 2) is right on the square. It’s worth spending some extra time in the station to examine made-to-scale replicas of the Zocalo throughout history.

When to get there

As with all of Mexico City, the Zócalo is almost always crowded. It’s especially busy at holidays and cultural celebrations, and it's often the site of political protests. The best time to visit is between March and May, as winter can be cold and summer can be rainy.

Templo Mayor

Just east of the cathedral, the Templo Mayor archaeological site and museum is a must-see for travelers to Mexico City. It was the main temple of the ancient Aztec capital city of Tenochtitlán, now Mexico City, and believed to be the spot where the Aztecs saw the symbolic eagle with a serpent in its beak—the modern-day symbol of Mexico. Visitors can explore the ruins of the pyramid and learn more about its history at the on-site museum.

Ways to explore

The Zócalo is a gathering place for political protest and cultural celebration, and a good place for visitors to get a taste of Mexico City. Tour the National Palace on the Zócalo's east side, where massive murals by Diego Rivera depict the nation’s history, or step inside the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral for a look at religious colonial art. Visit the Zócalo independently or as part of a Mexico City sightseeing tour—on foot, by bike, or even via Segway. Tours typically stop at major attractions, such as Bellas Artes and Plaza Garibaldi.

Accessibility

The wide, flat surfaces of Plaza de la Constitución mean it’s generally wheelchair accessible, though attractions each have specific accessibility restrictions.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Mexico City sits 7,350 feet (2,240 meters) above sea level, and the altitude can be a problem for some visitors; bring plenty of water and a remedy for altitude just in case.

What to wear

CDMX’s high location means it can be prone to a chilly breeze, so bring a light jacket.

Not allowed

Unpermitted drones, disruptive behaviour

Amenities

Street vendors, cafés, restaurants, benches

Address 

There are several ways to reach the Zocalo, located in Mexico City’s Centro Historico. Most visitors arrive as part of a Mexico City sightseeing tour or by public transportation, which is plentiful thanks to its central location.

Driving

Exit the airport and get on Calzada Ignacio Zaragoza toward Centro/Centro Histórico. Stay straight on the road until it becomes Eje 1 Oriente. Continue following signs for Centro Histórico/Zócalo and turn onto Avenida 20 de Noviembre, where you’ll find Plaza de la Constitución.

Public transportation

Metro Zocalo station (Line 2) is right on the square. It’s worth spending some extra time in the station to examine made-to-scale replicas of the Zocalo throughout history.

Best times to visit

Zócalo looks spectacular when it’s illuminated after dark, though be mindful of belongings and surroundings to avoid theft.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be quieter as the weekends draw more domestic tourists to the capital.

Best months to visit

Visit during the dry season of December through April to make the most of any outdoor exploration at Plaza de la Constitución.

Special events

During the Day of the Dead celebrations at the end of October, Plaza de la Constitución is filled with colorful ofrendas (altars) and towering catarina skeletons.