Palacio de Iturbide Mexico City
A magnificent baroque palace in Mexico City, now a cultural center showcasing free, high-quality art exhibitions and exquisite folk art.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Palacio de Iturbide Mexico City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent baroque palace in Mexico City, now a cultural center showcasing free, high-quality art exhibitions and exquisite folk art.
"A small museum in a very beautiful building with an arcaded courtyard. It hosts temporary exhibitions. Admission is free."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class art and history without spending a peso. Perfect for budget travelers!
✨ High-Quality Crafts
Check out the gift shop for unique, masterfully crafted Mexican folk art.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baroque Architecture
Entire Palace
Marvel at the intricate details of this 18th-century baroque masterpiece, a true architectural gem.

Temporary Art Exhibitions
Exhibition Halls
Experience diverse and high-quality art shows, from local masters to international artists.

Courtyard & Arcades
Central Courtyard
A serene arcaded courtyard offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into the palace's grandeur.

Maestros del Arte Popular
Gift Shop
Discover exquisite, high-quality Mexican folk art sponsored by Banamex.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Art & History Hub
Location & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class art and history without spending a peso. Perfect for budget travelers!
✨ High-Quality Crafts
Check out the gift shop for unique, masterfully crafted Mexican folk art.
📅 Check Exhibit Schedule
Exhibitions change every 1-3 months, so see what's on before you go!
🚶♀️ Explore Calle Madero
Combine your visit with a stroll down this historic street, seeing other landmarks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class art and history without spending a peso. Perfect for budget travelers!
✨ High-Quality Crafts
Check out the gift shop for unique, masterfully crafted Mexican folk art.
📅 Check Exhibit Schedule
Exhibitions change every 1-3 months, so see what's on before you go!
🚶♀️ Explore Calle Madero
Combine your visit with a stroll down this historic street, seeing other landmarks.
🗣️ Free Guided Tours
Ask about free guided tours for deeper insights (tip your guide!).
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Palacio de Iturbide for its stunning baroque architecture and the high quality of its free temporary art exhibitions. The palace's central location and the opportunity to purchase exquisite Mexican folk art from the 'Maestros del Arte Popular' program are also major draws. While some exhibitions might be more niche, the overall experience is highly regarded as a valuable cultural immersion.
"Beautiful building that exposes you to art before you step in. The outside of the building has beautiful paintings as you are on the sidewalk and ready to step inside."
Yolanda
"A small museum in a very beautiful building with an arcaded courtyard. It hosts temporary exhibitions. Admission is free."
Olga Istomina
"Visited here during the Dia de Muertos and this place had beautifully deceratode altars and papel picado. It was a quick visit but absolutely stunning decorations."
Isuru Nanyakkara
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palacio de Iturbide is located at Francisco I. Madero 17 in the Centro Histórico. It's easily accessible via the Mexico City Metro, with the Zócalo and Bellas Artes stations being the closest. Many bus routes also serve the area.
Street parking in the Centro Histórico can be very challenging. It's recommended to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service. There are paid parking garages nearby, but they can be expensive.
Absolutely! Palacio de Iturbide is centrally located on Calle Madero, making it a convenient stop when visiting the Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral, Palacio de Bellas Artes, and other historical sites.
Walking along Calle Madero is a fantastic experience, allowing you to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the historic center before arriving at the palace.
The Centro Histórico can have uneven sidewalks. While the palace itself is generally accessible, navigating the streets might require some care. Public transport options are generally good.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Palacio de Iturbide and its exhibitions is completely free for all visitors, including foreigners.
The palace is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but it's always a good idea to check their official schedule or social media for any last-minute changes or holiday closures.
Since admission is free, no advance booking is required. You can simply walk in during opening hours.
Exhibitions usually run for about 1 to 3 months, so there's always something new to see if you visit multiple times.
No special requirements are usually needed. Just be prepared for security checks at the entrance, as is standard for most cultural institutions.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Palacio de Iturbide hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, often featuring Mexican art, photography, and cultural history. Past exhibitions have included works by Miguel Covarrubias and folk art showcases.
Absolutely! The Palacio de Iturbide is a stunning example of Mexican baroque architecture, designed by Francisco Guerrero y Torres. Its arcaded courtyard and ornate interiors are a highlight.
Yes, free guided tours are often offered in Spanish. While they are free, it's customary and appreciated to tip the guides, many of whom are students. Inquire upon arrival about tour schedules.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's best to check the signage or ask staff for specific rules for the current exhibit.
A visit can range from 25 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the current exhibition and whether you take a guided tour.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, there's a gift shop that features high-quality Mexican folk art, often from artisans sponsored by Banamex's 'Maestros del Arte Popular' program. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs.
The Centro Histórico is packed with dining options, from street food vendors on Calle Madero to traditional restaurants and cafes. You'll find everything from quick bites to more formal dining experiences.
Typically, Palacio de Iturbide focuses on its exhibitions and does not have a full-service restaurant inside. However, there might be a small cafe or vending area depending on the current setup.
The gift shop offers a curated selection of artisanal crafts, including ceramics, textiles, and decorative items, representing the best of Mexican popular art.
The items are high-quality collector's pieces, so they are priced accordingly. While not budget souvenirs, they represent excellent value for masterfully crafted art.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider taking advantage of the free guided tours if the exhibition content is suitable for younger audiences; inquire beforehand. The central location on Calle Madero also means you can easily combine a visit with other family-friendly activities in the historic center. Remember to check the current exhibition details to ensure it aligns with your children's interests.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding Centro Histórico on foot, which is also free. For affordable eats, explore the street food vendors and local eateries along Calle Madero. The gift shop offers a chance to admire high-quality crafts, even if you're not purchasing.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Beyond the exhibitions, the architectural beauty of the palace itself provides an inspiring setting. The opportunity to see unique, masterfully crafted folk art in the gift shop adds another layer of artistic appreciation. Don't miss the chance to inquire about free guided tours for deeper insights into the art and history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
During the Mexican Revolution, the palace witnessed significant historical events, including being occupied by Pancho Villa's troops in 1914. This rich history adds layers of meaning to its already impressive structure. Today, its role as a cultural hub allows visitors to connect with both the past and the present of Mexican heritage. The free admission policy further democratizes access to this cultural treasure.
Visitors often remark on the building's beauty even before entering, with its striking facade and the inviting arcaded courtyard. The palace's ability to host diverse and engaging temporary exhibitions ensures that each visit can offer a new perspective on art and culture, making it a dynamic destination within the historic center.
Experiencing the Art
The free guided tours are a highly recommended way to enhance your understanding of the exhibitions. These tours, usually conducted in Spanish, offer valuable context and insights from knowledgeable guides, many of whom are students. While the tours are free, tipping the guides is a common practice and greatly appreciated.
Beyond the exhibitions, the palace itself serves as a work of art. Its architectural splendor provides a magnificent backdrop for the displayed pieces, creating an immersive and aesthetically pleasing environment. The combination of historical architecture and contemporary art makes for a unique and memorable cultural outing.
The 'Maestros del Arte Popular' Program
Visitors can find a curated selection of high-quality Mexican folk art, including intricate textiles, ceramics, alebrijes, and more. These are not mass-produced souvenirs but rather collector's items, representing the pinnacle of craftsmanship and cultural heritage. While these pieces are an investment, they offer a tangible connection to Mexico's rich artistic traditions.
This program transforms the gift shop into a mini-gallery, allowing visitors to take home a piece of authentic Mexican artistry. It's an excellent opportunity to support local artisans and acquire unique items that tell a story of tradition and skill.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit