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Plaça de la Constitució

4.6
·491k reviews·Maó, Spain

Mexico City's historic heart, a vast plaza surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, great light

CrowdLow
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Artichauts grillés (Fête de l'artichaut), Benicarlo

Plaça de la Constitució

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, great light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Mexico City's historic heart, a vast plaza surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Zócalo is the pulsating heart of Mexico City, a place where history, culture, and daily life converge."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Stay Aware of Surroundings

Be mindful of your belongings and stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially after dark.

📸 Golden Hour Photography

Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning light on the historic buildings.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Metropolitan Cathedral

Metropolitan Cathedral

North side of the plaza

Mexico City's largest and oldest cathedral, a stunning example of colonial architecture.

National Palace

National Palace

East side of the plaza

Home to Diego Rivera's iconic murals depicting Mexican history.

Templo Mayor Ruins

Templo Mayor Ruins

Northeast corner of the plaza

Ancient Aztec temple ruins offering a glimpse into pre-Hispanic Mexico City.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Centro Histórico

While Plaça de la Constitució is a vibrant hub, be aware of its surroundings. Some Reddit users advise caution near neighborhoods like Tepito, La Merced, and Doctores, suggesting sticking to well-trafficked areas, especially at night. Reddit

Best Times for Photos

To capture the grandeur of Plaça de la Constitució without overwhelming crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Golden hour light can be magical for photography, but check local event schedules as the plaza can be busy during festivals or demonstrations. TikTok

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, great light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
During local festivals
Why
Vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Which streets around Centro Historico should I avoid?

🚶‍♀️ Stay Aware of Surroundings

Be mindful of your belongings and stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially after dark. Reddit

📸 Golden Hour Photography

Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning light on the historic buildings. TikTok

reddit.com

Food Recommendations!?

reddit.com

Tourist bus route advice

🎟️ Check for Events

The plaza hosts many events; check schedules to avoid or enjoy the buzz. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the plaza and surrounding sites. :athletic_shoe:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Stay Aware of Surroundings

Be mindful of your belongings and stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially after dark. Reddit

📸 Golden Hour Photography

Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning light on the historic buildings. TikTok

🎟️ Check for Events

The plaza hosts many events; check schedules to avoid or enjoy the buzz. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the plaza and surrounding sites. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Plaça de la Constitució for its immense historical significance and architectural grandeur, calling it the 'heart of Mexico City.' The scale of the plaza and the surrounding iconic buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace are major draws. However, some find the crowds overwhelming at times, and a few mention being approached by persistent vendors.

What People Like

Historical significance
Grand architecture
Vibrant atmosphere

What People Dislike

Crowds
Persistent vendors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Plaça de la Constitució, also known as the Zócalo, is easily accessible by Mexico City Metro. The Zócalo station (Lines 2 and 8) is directly connected to the plaza. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available, but be aware of potential traffic congestion in the Centro Histórico area. TikTok

Generally, the plaza itself is safe during the day, being a major tourist attraction. However, some Reddit users advise caution when venturing into the immediate surrounding streets, particularly towards neighborhoods like Tepito or La Merced, especially at night. Reddit

Walking is the best way to experience the Centro Histórico. Wear comfortable shoes and plan your route to include Plaça de la Constitució and nearby attractions like the Templo Mayor and Palacio Nacional. TikTok

Yes, there are several underground parking garages around the plaza, but they can be expensive and fill up quickly. It's often more convenient to use public transport or ride-sharing. Instagram

Numerous bus routes serve the Centro Histórico. Check local transit apps or signage for routes that stop near the Zócalo. Be prepared for potential delays due to traffic. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Plaça de la Constitució itself is a public square and is free to enter. However, specific attractions within or bordering the plaza, like the National Palace (for murals) or the Templo Mayor Museum, may have admission fees or require ID. TikTok

The plaza is generally accessible 24/7. However, the hours for surrounding buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace vary, so it's best to check their individual schedules. Instagram

Entry to the National Palace is free, but you will need to present a valid photo ID to enter and see Diego Rivera's murals. Reddit

Admission to the Templo Mayor Museum typically has a small fee. Prices can change, so it's advisable to check the official museum website for the most current information. TikTok

For attractions like the Templo Mayor Museum, booking in advance might be possible online, which can save time. For the National Palace, no advance booking is needed, just bring your ID. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire plaza offers great photo opportunities. Capture the grandeur of the Metropolitan Cathedral, the intricate details of the National Palace, and the vastness of the square itself. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed in the courtyards of the National Palace, but it is often prohibited inside the halls where Diego Rivera's murals are displayed to protect the artwork. Reddit

Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around major public squares and historical sites in Mexico City, including Plaça de la Constitució, due to security and preservation concerns. Instagram

The 'golden hour' just after sunrise and before sunset provides beautiful, soft light that enhances the architecture. Midday can be harsh, but also good for capturing the vibrant activity. TikTok

Many visitors enjoy capturing the contrast between the colonial architecture and the modern city skyline, or the vibrant street performers and vendors that often populate the plaza. Instagram

🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining

The area around Plaça de la Constitució offers a wide range of dining options, from street food vendors selling tacos and esquites to traditional Mexican restaurants and cafes. Explore the side streets for hidden gems. TikTok

Absolutely! You'll find numerous street food stalls offering delicious and affordable options like tacos al pastor, tamales, elotes, and churros. Just ensure they look clean and popular. Instagram

For a more formal dining experience, consider restaurants like Azul Histórico for traditional Mexican cuisine in a beautiful courtyard setting, or El Cardenal for classic dishes. TikTok

Generally, yes, if you choose vendors that are busy and appear clean. Look for stalls where food is cooked fresh in front of you. Many travelers enjoy street food without issues. Reddit

Many Mexican dishes can be made vegetarian or vegan. Look for options like vegetable tacos, quesadillas without cheese, or dishes featuring beans and rice. Some restaurants are increasingly offering dedicated vegan menus. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Plaça de la Constitució offers a grand open space for kids to run around, but supervision is key due to the crowds. The Templo Mayor ruins can spark imagination about ancient civilizations, and the National Palace murals, while complex, can be a visual feast. Consider a short ride on a turibus (hop-on-hop-off bus) for a less strenuous way to see the area. TikTok Pack snacks and water, as food options can be overwhelming or pricey right on the plaza.

💰 Budget Travelers

The Zócalo itself is free to explore, making it a budget-friendly highlight. Enjoy the atmosphere, watch street performers, and admire the architecture from the outside. For affordable eats, dive into the street food stalls surrounding the plaza – tacos, esquites, and churros are delicious and cheap. Instagram Utilize the Metro for inexpensive transportation to and from the area. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Plaça de la Constitució is a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for dramatic lighting on the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace. TikTok Capture the scale of the plaza, the intricate details of the colonial architecture, and the vibrant street life. Be mindful of photography restrictions inside the National Palace. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Mexico City: Plaça de la Constitució

Plaça de la Constitució, commonly known as the Zócalo, is one of the largest city squares in the world and the historical and political heart of Mexico City. It has been a gathering place for the people of Mexico for centuries, from Aztec ceremonies to modern-day protests and celebrations. The sheer scale of the plaza is impressive, surrounded by monumental buildings that tell the story of Mexico's rich history. TikTok

Flanked by the imposing Metropolitan Cathedral to the north, the National Palace to the east, and the Templo Mayor ruins to the northeast, the plaza is a living museum. Visitors can spend hours exploring these iconic landmarks, each offering a unique perspective on Mexican culture and heritage. The atmosphere is often lively, with street performers, vendors, and sometimes even large-scale events taking place. Instagram

It's important to be aware of your surroundings, as the Centro Histórico can be very crowded. While the plaza itself is generally safe, some travelers on Reddit advise caution when exploring the immediate adjacent streets, especially at night, recommending to stick to well-trafficked areas. Reddit Planning your visit during daylight hours and staying aware of your belongings will ensure a more enjoyable experience.

Exploring the National Palace Murals

The National Palace is a must-visit for anyone interested in Mexican history and art. Its most famous feature is the extensive series of murals by Diego Rivera, which adorn the walls of the main staircase and corridors. These vibrant and detailed artworks chronicle the history of Mexico from pre-Hispanic times to the 20th century, offering a powerful visual narrative of the nation's struggles and triumphs. Reddit

To access the murals, you'll need to enter the National Palace. Entry is free, but you are required to present a valid photo ID at the security checkpoint. Photography is often restricted inside the mural halls to preserve the artwork, so be prepared to experience these masterpieces with your own eyes. Instagram Allow ample time to wander through the palace and absorb the stories depicted in Rivera's work; it's an educational and deeply moving experience.

Unearthing Aztec History at Templo Mayor

Adjacent to the Zócalo lie the Templo Mayor ruins, the remnants of the main temple of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. Excavations here have uncovered a wealth of artifacts and architectural elements, providing a fascinating glimpse into the sophisticated civilization that once thrived on this very spot. The site museum offers a comprehensive look at the discoveries, including intricate sculptures, offerings, and ceremonial objects. TikTok

Visiting Templo Mayor is like stepping back in time. You can walk among the excavated structures and imagine the grandeur of the Aztec empire. The museum is particularly insightful, showcasing the layers of construction and the religious significance of the site. It's a powerful reminder of the deep historical roots of Mexico City. Instagram

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