I recently took a trip to Mexico City with my mom and my 8 year old son. It was a pilgrimage, which is undertaken to a sacred place for spiritual, religious, or personal growth. I’ve been going through some personal transformations lately, and this trip was just what I needed for my mind, body and soul.
(CDMX) Mexico City is a beautiful destination rich with history, tradition, culture and the arts. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual, historical or educational travel experience, this is a great destination to inspire people of all ages and I highly recommend it for families as well.
Our main attraction was the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe), which is one of the most important religious sites in Mexico and the world, dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patron saint of Mexico and Latin America. It is a major pilgrimage site, attracting millions of visitors each year, especially on December 12, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
My son has been learning and talking about her for some time and this was the perfect opportunity to visit this beautiful, sacred and spiritual site. If you’re not familiar with the story of Lady Guadalupe, you can read more about her here.
I definitely felt her divine presence throughout my 4 days here, it filled me in ways that can’t adequately be captured in a blog post. I wish to share my experience more in depth one day. 🙂
Here is a 4 day itinerary which we followed with my son. It was physically difficult at times but a trip that filled our mind and soul.
Day 1: A Spiritual Start – Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Begin your journey with one of the most important religious sites in the world, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This sacred space is not only a place of deep faith but also a fascinating cultural landmark.
What to See
• The New Basilica, where millions of pilgrims come to see the miraculous image of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Juan Diego’s tilma (cloak).
I highly recommend buying a few candles to light them with your prayer intentions, visit the miraculous image, buy a few souvenirs, take a stroll along this sacred site. This beautiful chapel holds mass throughout the day and it’s one of the most beautiful masses I’ve attended in my life.
The masses are held in Spanish, but it didn’t matter. I’m thankful that my Catholic faith is universal, and God speaks to and through all people.
• The Old Basilica, a stunning Baroque church that has stood since the 1700s.
• Tepeyac Hill, where Juan Diego had his vision of the Virgin Mary. A short climb offers beautiful city views.
• The Capilla del Pocito, a charming chapel with sacred water.
Family Tip
If you’re traveling with young kids, bring comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking. The morning hours are best to avoid crowds. A sun hat and sunscreen are a must and make sure you have coins (in pesos) on hand for bathroom trips. Each trip costs you 50 pesos.
Lunch Recommendation
Head to El Cardenal for traditional Mexican breakfast dishes like hot chocolate, pan dulce, and chilaquiles.
Afternoon Activity: Mexico City’s Historic Center
• Walk around El Zócalo, the city’s grand main square.
• Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, the oldest and largest cathedral in Latin America.
• Explore the Templo Mayor, ancient ruins of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlán, where you can see how Mexico’s history layers over itself.
Day 2: A Journey Through Time – National Museum of Anthropology
Start the day at one of the best museums in the world, the National Museum of Anthropology in Chapultepec Park. This museum brings ancient civilizations to life in a way that fascinates both kids and adults.
The museum is massive with many different buildings and categories, you can spend all day here. It was one of the most extensive museums I’ve been to in my life and there are many opportunities to learn about history, culture, anthropology and the arts for people of all ages.
Must-See Exhibits
• The Aztec Sun Stone (Stone of the Five Eras), a massive and intricate calendar.
• The Mayan Room, showcasing stunning jade masks and sculptures.
• The recreation of Pakal the Great’s tomb, an awe-inspiring piece of Mayan history.
• The Oaxaca and Gulf Coast rooms, featuring colossal Olmec stone heads.
Family Tip
If kids get restless, step outside into Chapultepec Park, where they can run around, feed ducks, or even ride a pedal boat.
Afternoon in Chapultepec Park
• Visit Chapultepec Castle, a real-life fairytale castle once home to Mexican emperors. The views of the city are breathtaking.
• Check out the Lago de Chapultepec, where you can rent boats or have a picnic.
Evening Idea
Walk through Polanco, an upscale neighborhood, and enjoy ice cream at Nevería Roxy.
Day 3: Exploring Ancient Wonders – The Pyramids of Teotihuacán
This day is all about adventure and history. Just an hour outside Mexico City lies Teotihuacán, home to the Pyramid of the Sun and Moon, one of the most awe-inspiring ancient cities in the world. It was fascinating to learn about how the indigenous people worshipped the sun and moon gods in their own ways.
This experience was a direct juxtaposition to all the Catholic chapels we were visiting, providing us with a more comprehensive and universal view of spirituality and history.
What to Do
• Climb the Pyramid of the Sun, one of the largest pyramids in the world. If you have little ones, let them climb halfway as it is steep.
Unfortunately when we went, we weren’t allowed to climb the pyramids but I know it’s open at times.
• Visit the Pyramid of the Moon, offering the best view of the entire ancient city.
• Walk along the Avenue of the Dead, once the heart of Teotihuacán civilization.
• Explore the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, decorated with feathered serpent carvings.
Family Tip
Bring hats, sunscreen, and water. Teotihuacán can get very hot, and shade is limited. Bring cash if you’d like to buy souvenirs.
Day 4: A Day Trip to Puebla – The City of Talavera & Mole
Puebla is a UNESCO-listed colonial city, just two hours from Mexico City, known for its colorful buildings, Talavera pottery, and delicious cuisine. It is the perfect way to end your trip on a high note.
This city felt different from Mexico city, more European, eclectic with unique Mexican bohemian vibes. It was really fun to walk through the city with my son, visit beautiful chapels, eat delicious local cuisine and learn more about its local lifestyle.
Morning: Travel to Puebla
You can take a bus (ADO from TAPO station) or hire a private driver for a smoother trip with kids.
What to See in Puebla
• Capilla del Rosario – One of the most beautiful chapels I’ve seen in my life and I’ve seen many throughout Europe. It is one of the most stunning examples of Mexican Baroque architecture, located inside the Templo de Santo Domingo in Puebla, Mexico.
Often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, this chapel is a must-visit for anyone interested in art, history, and religious heritage. This entire chapel is adorned in gold and is meant to evoke heaven.
It truly felt majestic, divine and otherworldly- hope my heaven looks like this too.
• Cholula & the Great Pyramid – This pyramid looks like a hill but is actually the largest pyramid by volume in the world. Climb to the top for stunning views of the volcanoes.
• Puebla Cathedral – A breathtaking Spanish-style cathedral at the heart of the city.
• Talavera Pottery Shops – Watch artisans create beautiful blue-and-white hand-painted ceramics.
Afternoon in Calle de los Dulces & Barrio del Artista
• Stop by Calle de los Dulces (Street of Sweets) for traditional candies like camotes and muéganos.
• Walk through Barrio del Artista, where local painters create beautiful works live.
Evening: Return to Mexico City
I know there may be some safety concerns in Mexico City for families, but our experience was overall great. I recommend traveling as a group or hiring a local tour guide and driver if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
Google translator, currency converter and an open heart are your best friend!
