Flights from Chicago (MDW) to Mexico City (MEX) from USD96

Before taking off to the heart of Mexico, here are some key details to make your trip as smooth as possible:

• Weather in Mexico City: The capital has mild temperatures year-round. Expect warm days and cooler nights, especially during the dry season from November to April.
• Documents required: U.S. citizens need a valid passport. A tourist card (FMM) is issued upon arrival in Mexico and is typically included in your airline ticket.
• Check-in and airport tips: Arrive at O’Hare at least 3 hours before your international flight. Use online check-in to speed things up and download your boarding pass to your phone.
• Baggage guidelines: Volaris allows one personal item and offers options to add carry-on or checked bags. Make sure to check the weight limits to avoid extra fees.
• Things to do in Chicago: If you’re arriving early or staying overnight before your flight, take time to enjoy the city—visit Millennium Park, the Art Institute, or take a stroll along the Riverwalk.

You'll land at Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX), the busiest airport in Latin America. Located just 8 kilometers from downtown, it’s surrounded by key transport routes and urban districts.

Getting from the airport to your hotel is simple. Taxis are available at official stands—just look for the kiosks inside the terminal. You can also use rideshare apps like Uber or Didi. Public buses and the Metro are cheaper alternatives but may not be ideal if you're carrying luggage.

If you're looking for a place to stay, there are several cheap hotels in Mexico City near the airport, great for travelers arriving late or leaving early. However, most visitors prefer to stay closer to the city center or in neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, or Polanco for easier access to the main attractions.

Once you’ve checked in at your hotel or reached your destination, make time to explore the local cuisine—one of the highlights of any trip to the capital. Enjoy the typical food in Mexico City, from tamales freshly unwrapped on a street corner to tlacoyos topped with nopales and cheese, or tacos al pastor sizzling on a rotating spit. These flavors are everywhere, especially in neighborhoods near the airport like Venustiano Carranza, where locals grab a bite on the go or settle into casual eateries for a hearty meal.

Get ready to discover a city that combines ancient history with modern culture in every corner. From street markets to museums, there are endless things to do in Mexico City for every kind of traveler.

• Historic Center of Mexico City: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area is packed with colonial architecture, lively plazas, and iconic spots like the Zócalo and Metropolitan Cathedral. It's a must-visit for those wanting to experience the soul of the city.
• Chapultepec Castle: Located inside one of the largest urban parks in the world, this castle offers history, art, and some of the best views of the city. One of the most visited museums in Mexico City, it’s perfect for all ages.
• Coyoacán: Once home to Frida Kahlo, this colorful neighborhood is known for its artistic vibe, weekend markets, and leafy plazas. It’s a favorite among visitors looking to uncover famous places in Mexico with a local feel.
• Xochimilco Canals: Hop on a trajinera and float through the ancient canals of Xochimilco. Live music, food vendors, and bright boats make this one of the top Mexico City attractions.
• National Museum of Anthropology: This museum is one of the most comprehensive in the world and a cornerstone of any Mexico City travel guide. It houses the famous Aztec Sun Stone and offers a deep dive into the country's pre-Hispanic history.

Make the most of your trip with this easy-to-follow plan that mixes culture, fun, and food.

• Day 1: Historical & Iconic
  • Explore the Historic Center of Mexico City, including the Zócalo
  • Visit Templo Mayor and learn about the Aztec empire
  • Have dinner at a traditional cantina near Bellas Artes
• Day 2: Culture & Neighborhoods
  • Stroll through Coyoacán and visit the Frida Kahlo Museum
  • Enjoy lunch in San Ángel and shop at the art market
  • Catch a performance at the Palacio de Bellas Artes in the evening
• Day 3: Nature & Views
  • Spend your morning at Chapultepec Park and Castle
  • Enjoy a boat ride in Xochimilco with live mariachi
  • Wrap up your day with tacos al pastor in Roma Norte

• The best time to visit Mexico City is between March and May for clear skies and pleasant temps.
• Use ride apps for safer, more transparent pricing compared to street taxis.
• Stay hydrated and take it easy the first day—Mexico City's elevation can affect travelers.
• When traveling as a family, check out things to do in Mexico City with kids like the Papalote Children's Museum and interactive exhibits at the Zoo.
• Direct flights to Mexico City from Chicago often fill up—book early to get the best deal.