Mexico City, a cultural and historical powerhouse, is not only the political capital of Mexico but also a major global urban tourism destination.
In 2023 the city welcomed about 10.2 million domestic visitors plus around 4.18 million international visitors, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
With strong growth aspirations, the city targets increasing total visitor numbers toward ~19.5 million by 2030.
Key Stats: Mexico City Tourism
- 14.4 million hotel-guests in 2023 — Mexico City has officially bounced back to and slightly above its pre-pandemic hotel numbers.
- ~56 million total visitors in 2023 — when you include day-visitors and stays with friends/family, the capital sees a huge influx.
- Target: 19.5 million hotel stays by 2030 — Mexico City is setting ambitious growth plans for the next few years.
- 45 million international tourists in Mexico in 2024 — while this is for the whole country, Mexico City benefits as a major gateway and hub.
How Many Tourists Visit Mexico City Each Year?
In 2023, Mexico City received approximately 14.4 million visitors (domestic + international).
- Domestic (Mexican residents): ~10.2 million
- International visitors: ~4.18 million
These numbers exceed 2019 pre-pandemic totals (10.15 million domestic + ~3.76 million foreign).
The city aims to raise annual totals to ~19.5 million by 2030.
How Many Tourists Visit Mexico City Each Day?
Based on ~14.4 million annual arrivals in 2023, Mexico City averaged about ~39,500 visitors per day.
How Much Do Visitors Spend in Mexico City?
Visitor spending in Mexico City reaches billions of USD annually.
While detailed city-specific spend data is less available in the sources I found, national figures show that Mexico’s international visitor spending rose by 5.7 % in 2024 to ~$2.7 billion USD.
Given Mexico City’s role as one of the top destinations in the country, a substantial share of this spend occurs there.
Which Countries Visit Mexico City the Most?
Top source markets for Mexico City include the United States, Canada, Colombia, Spain and Argentina.
Although city-level data is limited in the sources I reviewed, national trends indicate that in early 2025 the U.S. accounted for ~58 % and Canada ~19.9 % of visitors to Mexico.
What Are the Most Visited Attractions in Mexico City?
Mexico City’s attraction portfolio spans heritage sites, museums, cultural districts and modern urban experiences.
| Attraction | Estimated Annual Visitors / Notes |
|---|---|
| Historic Center (Zócalo, Catedral, Templo Mayor) | Millions — major heritage hub |
| Chapultepec Park & Castle | Key urban green space, cultural landmark |
| Museo Nacional de Antropología | ~3.7 million visitors in 2024 |
| Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul) | High demand, ticketed entry |
| Roma & Condesa neighbourhoods | Trendy food, nightlife, Airbnb stays |
| Xochimilco Canals | Cultural & tourist draw |
| Angel of Independence / Paseo de la Reforma | Iconic cityscape |
| Teotihuacán (nearby day trip) | Often paired with Mexico City stays |
| National Museum of Art / Palacio de Bellas Artes | Major cultural venues |
| Street food & culinary tours | Rising appeal of gastronomy tourism |
When Is the Best Time to Visit Mexico City?
Tourism in Mexico City is year-round, but certain periods offer better weather or special events.
| Season | Trend | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Moderate-High | Mild weather, festive season |
| Spring (Mar–May) | High | Cultural festivals, good weather |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Moderate | Warm, possible rainy days |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | High | Anniversary of independence, cultural events |
What Are the Biggest Events Attracting Tourists to Mexico City?
Major events boost visitation and city profile.
| Event | Time of Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mexico City Marathon | August | International runners |
| Festival of Independent Film (FICUNAM) | February/March | Cultural draw |
| Day of the Dead celebrations | October/November | Iconic national event |
| Mexico City Gallery Weekend | April | Art tourism |
| Auténtico Coyoacán festivals | Various | Local heritage & food festivals |
How Much Does Mexico City Rely on Tourism?
Tourism is a major pillar of Mexico City’s economy, both culturally and economically.
The city’s service sector (including tourism, hospitality, events) dominates its economic activity and global tourism ambitions are high.
Detailed city-level GDP contributions specific to tourism are not always separated in publicly available data, but national and state-level trends suggest a strong reliance.
Which Areas of Mexico City Are Most Popular With Tourists?
Key neighbourhoods for lodging, dining and cultural experiences include:
- Centro Histórico / Zócalo & Reforma — Heritage core, top sights
- Roma Norte & Condesa — Gastronomy, nightlife, trendy stays
- Polanco / Chapultepec — Luxury hotels, museums, high-end dining
- Coyoacán & Xochimilco — Culture, colonial charm, family friendly
- Zona Rosa / Paseo de la Reforma — Shopping, LGBT tourism, events
FAQ – Mexico City Tourism Insights
How many tourists visit Mexico City each year?
Approximately 14.4 million in 2023 (10.2 million domestic + 4.18 million international).
Which countries send the most tourists to Mexico City?
Predominantly the United States and Canada, followed by Latin American and Spanish markets.
What is Mexico City best known for?
History, culture, museums, street food, nightlife, and vibrant neighbourhoods.
When is the best time to visit Mexico City?
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather and rich event calendars.
Is Mexico City expensive for tourists?
Relatively moderate compared to major global cities — wide range of accommodation and dining options.
Which area is best to stay in Mexico City?
Centro Histórico for heritage, Roma/Condesa for food & nightlife, Polanco for luxury, Coyoacán for culture.
How much does tourism contribute to Mexico City’s economy?
While exact numbers for the city aren’t always published separately, tourism is a key growth driver and part of the city’s ambition to grow to ~19.5 million annual visitors by 2030.
Sources
- Visit Mexico — Mexico City Tourism Surpasses Pre-Pandemic Levels (Jan 2024)
- Tourism-Review.com — Mexico City’s Tourism Focuses on Sustainability and Culinary Experience (Apr 2025)
- El País — United States, Canada and Argentina: Where the Most Tourists Visiting Mexico Come From (Apr 2025)
- ForeverVacation.com — Mexico Tourism Statistics 2019-2024 (Visitor Numbers & Expenditures)
- HotelAgiO.com — How Many Tourists Visit Mexico Each Year? (Statistics for Mexico, including Mexico City as a key market)
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