Expat communities

Mexico City is home to a thriving expat community, drawn by its dynamic culture, rich history, and modern amenities. Expats from the U.S., Europe, South America, and Asia form vibrant networks through meetups, language exchange programs, and cultural organizations. Popular neighborhoods for expats include Condesa, Roma, and Polanco, offering a cosmopolitan lifestyle with international schools, coworking spaces, and diverse dining options.

Join our community of over 150 members who have relocated to Mexico City! Connect with fellow expats, share experiences, and build your network in one of the world’s most diverse cities.

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Co-working spaces

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Mexico City is a thriving hub for freelancers, startups, and professionals, offering a diverse array of co-working spaces tailored to various needs. Here are some popular co-working spaces in Mexico City:

• WeWork: Multiple locations throughout the city, offering sleek designs, high-speed Wi-Fi, private offices, meeting rooms, and community events that foster networking.
• Regus: Provides flexible workspace solutions with professional amenities like virtual offices, lounges, and meeting rooms in prime locations.
• Coffice: A hybrid coffee shop and co-working space, ideal for casual work sessions with reliable Wi-Fi and delicious coffee.
• Homework: A boutique co-working space catering to professionals seeking a quiet, productive environment with private offices and collaborative areas.
• Distrito Central: Known for its vibrant design, this space supports startups with business services, event spaces, and community-building activities.

Public workspaces

Mexico City offers numerous public workspaces for those who prefer a more casual setting:

• Biblioteca Vasconcelos: A stunning public library featuring free Wi-Fi, open workspaces, and quiet zones, ideal for focused work.
• El Pendulo (various locations): A cozy bookstore café with a relaxed ambiance, strong Wi-Fi, and plenty of seating.
• Parque Lincoln and Parque México: Popular urban parks with open seating areas and free Wi-Fi zones, offering a unique outdoor workspace.

Company presence

As the economic heart of Mexico, Mexico City is home to major companies across various industries:

• Technology: Houses offices of Google, Amazon, and IBM, alongside a growing ecosystem of tech startups and fintech companies.
• Finance: Headquarters for leading Mexican banks like BBVA Bancomer and Banorte, as well as regional offices for global financial institutions.
• Healthcare/biotech: Features key players like Grupo Bimbo in food science and Biotoscana in biotech, supported by world-class research institutions.
• Media/entertainment: Home to Televisa and TV Azteca, Mexico’s largest media companies, along with thriving production studios.
• Manufacturing/automotive: Includes global automotive giants like General Motors, Nissan, and Volkswagen with assembly plants nearby.

Startup culture

Mexico City boasts a burgeoning startup ecosystem fueled by innovation and entrepreneurship:

• Startup Mexico: A leading incubator offering coworking spaces, mentorship, and funding opportunities for tech and non-tech startups.
• Seedstars Mexico: A global accelerator with a strong presence in Mexico City, helping startups scale internationally.
• MassChallenge Mexico: Focused on connecting startups with investors and industry leaders in a collaborative environment.

The city excels in fintech, e-commerce, and health tech, with notable startups like Clip (payment solutions) and Konfío (SME loans) driving growth.

Networking opportunities

Mexico City offers vibrant networking events and professional hubs for connecting with like-minded individuals:

• Startup Grind Mexico City: The local chapter of a global entrepreneur network, offering events and mentorship for startups.
• Fuckup Nights: Born in Mexico City, this global movement celebrates lessons from entrepreneurial failures in informal meetups.
• LinkedIn Local Mexico City: Regular gatherings focused on building authentic professional connections.
• WeWork and Homework Events: Many co-working spaces host networking and skill-building events for professionals and entrepreneurs.

Attractions

Mexico City is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture, offering countless landmarks and experiences for visitors and residents alike. Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:

• Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución): The historic center of Mexico City, this massive square is surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace. It’s a vibrant hub of culture and events.
• Chapultepec Castle: Perched atop Chapultepec Hill, this historic castle offers breathtaking views of the city, lush gardens, and fascinating exhibits on Mexico’s imperial past.
• Museo Frida Kahlo (The Blue House): Once the home of Frida Kahlo, this museum in Coyoacán showcases her life and artwork, along with artifacts and personal belongings.
• Palacio de Bellas Artes: A masterpiece of Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture, this cultural landmark hosts performances, exhibitions, and murals by Diego Rivera and other renowned artists.
• Teotihuacán Pyramids: Located just outside the city, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, offering a glimpse into ancient Mesoamerican history.
• Xochimilco Canals: Known as the "Venice of Mexico," Xochimilco offers colorful trajinera boat rides through ancient canals, complete with mariachi music and traditional food vendors.
• Coyoacán Neighborhood: A charming district filled with cobblestone streets, vibrant markets, and tranquil plazas, perfect for exploring history and culture.
• Soumaya Museum: A striking modern building housing an eclectic art collection, including works by Rodin, Dalí, and Mexican masters.

Festivals and holidays

Festivals:

• Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) (November 1–2): A vibrant celebration honoring departed loved ones with colorful altars, parades, and offerings of food and flowers. The parade in Mexico City is a must-see.
• Festival Internacional Cervantino (October): Though based in Guanajuato, this arts festival brings music, theater, and dance performances to Mexico City as well.
• Vive Latino (March): One of Latin America’s largest music festivals, featuring a mix of rock, pop, and regional Mexican artists.
• Fiestas Patrias (September 15–16): Celebrations of Mexican Independence Day fill the city with fireworks, parades, and festivities, centered around the Zócalo.

Holidays:

• Independence Day (September 16): The city lights up with patriotic displays, concerts, and reenactments of the famous "Grito de Dolores."
• Christmas (December 25): Festivities include Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) celebrations, Nativity scenes, and a dazzling display of lights in the city.
• Cinco de Mayo (May 5): While not as widely celebrated across the country, Mexico City hosts parades and cultural events commemorating the Battle of Puebla.

Local celebrities

Mexico City has produced numerous influential figures in arts, politics, and culture:

• Frida Kahlo: One of the most iconic artists of all time, known for her deeply personal and surrealist works.
• Diego Rivera: A master muralist and political artist whose works adorn many of Mexico City’s most famous buildings.
• Salma Hayek: An acclaimed actress and producer, she started her career in Mexico City before finding global fame.

Fun fact

Mexico City was built on the site of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlán, which was originally constructed on an island in a lake. Over time, the lake was drained, but parts of the city, like Xochimilco, still retain its water-based origins.

Local cuisine

Mexico City is a culinary paradise, blending traditional and modern flavors. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Tacos al Pastor: Marinated pork cooked on a spit, served on soft tortillas with pineapple, onion, and cilantro. A staple of Mexico City street food.
• Chilaquiles: Tortilla chips smothered in green or red salsa, topped with cheese, cream, and eggs or chicken—a popular breakfast dish.
• Tamales: Corn dough filled with meats, cheeses, or chilies, wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves and steamed to perfection.
• Elote and Esquites: Grilled corn on the cob or off-the-cob (in a cup), served with mayo, cheese, lime, and chili powder.
• Pozole: A hearty hominy soup made with pork or chicken, garnished with lettuce, radishes, and lime.

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Do's and Don'ts

✅ Do respect local customs and traditions: Embrace the city’s vibrant cultural festivals, such as Day of the Dead, and take time to learn about Mexico’s rich history and heritage.

✅ Do use public transport smartly: The Metro and Metrobus are efficient and affordable, but avoid rush hours for a more comfortable experience.

✅ Do practice basic Spanish: While many people in Mexico City understand English, knowing basic Spanish phrases can make your interactions smoother and more enjoyable.

❌ Don’t drink tap water: Always opt for bottled or filtered water to avoid health issues.

❌ Don’t flash valuables: Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so keep your belongings secure.

❌ Don’t forget to tip: Tipping is customary in Mexico City; it’s a way to show appreciation for good service.

Tipping

Tipping is customary and appreciated in Mexico City for various services:

• Restaurants: 10–15% of the total bill is standard.
• Bars: $10–$20 MXN per drink, or 10% of the total.
• Taxis: Not expected, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.
• Hotels: $20–$50 MXN per bag for bellhops, and $50–$100 MXN per night for housekeeping.

Note: While tipping is not mandatory, it is considered an important part of service staff income in Mexico City.

Equivalent services & platforms

^{Taxi service} _{Didi, Uber, Beat}

^Supermarket _{Walmart, Chedraui, Soriana}

^Messaging _{WhatsApp, Telegram}

^{Food delivery} _{Uber Eats, Rappi, Didi Food}

^{Internet provider} _{Telmex, izzi}

^Bank _{BBVA Bancomer, Banorte, Santander}

^{Hotel booking} _{Booking.com, Airbnb}

^Streaming _{Netflix, Spotify, Amazon Prime}

Apps to download before arrival

^{Navigation & transit} _{Google Maps, Moovit}

^Ride-hailing _{Uber, Didi}

^{Food & dining} _{Uber Eats, Rappi, OpenTable}

^{Daily essentials} _{Cornershop by Uber, Tiendita}

^{Currency & language} _{XE Currency, Google Translate}

^{Weather & city info} _{Weather Underground, Mexico City Official Guide}

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Disclaimer: This city guide is based on personal research, experiences, and various online sources. While we strive for accuracy and inclusivity, the content is generalized and may not reflect all individual circumstances or perspectives. Readers are encouraged to double-check information for accuracy and relevance to their specific needs. Updated as of November 2024, this guide is for informational purposes only. We disclaim all liability for decisions made based on this guide.

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