Xochimilco

The basics

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.

Things to know before you go

• 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.

How to get there

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.

When to get there

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.

The floating gardens of Xochimilco

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.

Can you go to Xochimilco without a tour?

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.

Do you need reservations for Xochimilco?

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.

What is the best day to go to Xochimilco?

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.

Is Xochimilco worth visiting?

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.

What should I wear to Xochimilco?

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.

Can you drink in Xochimilco?

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.

Ways to explore

Take at least a half day to float down the canals of Xochimilco on one of the many tours—the colorfully painted boats are an attraction all by themselves, and it’s a festive environment. Depending on your interests, you can hop on a music and party cruise with drinks and dancing, an art tour of notable murals, or focus on nature with a trip through the ecological reserve.

Many tours depart from Mexico City and offer transportation to the area. Another popular spot in Xochimilco is the spooky Island of the Dolls, with its stories of hauntings and its eerie collection of thousands of dolls.

Accessibility

Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas Port is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and staff who can help transfer wheelchair users to the flat-bottomed boats, and there is an accessible washroom at the port.

Age limits

While there are no age limits, Xochimilco can be a rowdy destination, with party boats and plenty of drinking.

What to pack

Water, snacks, cash for food and souvenir vendors on the water

What to wear

Hat, sunglasses, breathable clothes to relax or dance in

Not allowed

If a mariachi band pulls up alongside your boat and begins to play, expect to pay for a song or two, unless you ask them to leave.

Amenities

Restrooms near the boat dock

Address

Xochimilco is around 17 miles (28 kilometers) south of central Mexico City, but traffic can cause delays. The available parking lots tend to fill up quickly. Taxis are always an option.

Driving

You’ll drive to Xochimilco Embarcaderos, from where most of the tours depart. From central Mexico City, head south along Calz. de Tlalpan until the exit for Periferico Sur, and then continue onto Anillo Perif. Turn right on Antiguo Canal Cuemanco and continue to the parking lot.

Public transportation

There’s no direct bus or train to Xochimilco. At the Hidalgo metro station, catch the 2 metro, and exit at Tasqueña. From there, walk to the nearby Terminal Tren Ligero (light rail station) and board the 1 train to Xochimilco. It about a 90-minute journey.

Best times to visit

Unlike some attractions, the crowds are what make Xochimilco fun, creating a lively atmosphere with music, dancing, and fun. Visit in the afternoon and evening to get into the party mood.

Best days to visit

Weekends, with their blend of locals and visitors, are the best time to visit Xochimilco.

Best months to visit

Visit from November through April to skip the June through October rainy season and enjoy the milder temperatures.

Special events

On Friday of Sorrows (the Friday before Palm Sunday), the canals fill with a parade of specially decorated boats competing for a prize. Visit for Candlemas on February 2, for a bustling festival with fireworks, music, and plenty of food.