BeSeeingTheWorldYo's Guide to a Weekend Escape in One of the World’s Largest Cities
Mexico City, or CDMX if you’re cool (and you are), is home to over 20 million people across its sprawling metro area—making it the sixth-largest city in the world. Sounds intense, right? I thought so too. But after back-to-back birthday trips in 2022 and 2023, I’m here to tell you: CDMX is not only doable, it’s delightful.
It all started when our friends showed off some stunning new artwork they picked up on their own CDMX adventure. Justin got inspired, and suddenly we were booking a long weekend getaway to celebrate his birthday—with me and our friend Jon flying in for a quick trip, while Justin and a few others extended the party all the way to Colombia (jealous, much? I was). My “unlimited PTO” didn’t quite deliver, but I was still down for a whirlwind weekend. And to my surprise? Mexico City was easy, fun, and full of magic.
A year later, we were back—this time for two milestone birthdays. And CDMX didn’t disappoint.
🎈 Hot Air Balloon Over the Pyramids (aka, Birthday Goals)
For Justin’s 2022 birthday, we surprised him with a hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacán. Yes, it meant a painfully early wake-up—but the kind where it’s so worth it. We arrived right before sunrise, and the sight of dozens of balloons lifting off in sync was truly cinematic.
We paid extra for drone footage and photos (great if you’re like me and love photos). Floating peacefully over the ancient pyramids was dreamlike. It’s not every day you get to feel like you’re starring in your own travel documentary before 8 AM.
Ready for liftoff? Watch the sun rise as we float over the ancient pyramids outside Mexico City—one of the most surreal and peaceful experiences of my life.
💦 Tolantongo Caves & Hot Springs
An 8-hour road trip to the most magical hot springs you’ll ever find!
Let’s be real: 8 hours in a van on bumpy roads is not for the faint of heart (or the easily carsick). But once we arrived at Grutas Tolantongo, it was all worth it. This spot has everything: steaming hot caves, a turquoise river, and scenic “jacuzzis” built into the cliffs.
The caves were steamy, narrow, and perfect for an aqua massage as hot spring water gushed from the walls and ceilings. The second cave felt more like a grotto with high ceilings and natural currents that carried you along like a gentle water slide. The river was sunny and swimmable, while the hot spring pools were the kind of picturesque spots Instagram dreams are made of.
Here’s a glimpse of the adventure (and even part of the 8-hour van ride).
🛶 Boats in Xochimilco
Think: Venice vibes but with mariachi, micheladas, and your own boat party. We rented a colorful trajinera (one of those neon-painted boats), brought snacks and drinks (water included, Mom), and floated along with live music and pure joy. It was easy to book and super budget-friendly—definitely a highlight.
Check out how we turned this chill day trip into our own float-on fiesta.
✨ Safety Snippet: Is CDMX Sketchy?
I had some nerves going in to my first trip to Mexico City. Back during my 2017 sabbatical, I’d heard a few intense stories that left me wary. But the reality? I only had one iffy moment—during an Uber ride out to Xochimilco in a grimey car with two sleeping friends, the driver warned me to keep my phone out of sight. I took his advice, stayed alert, and had no issues other than the boredom that pursued. Just use common sense and you’ll be fine.
🌿 CDMX: Surprisingly Green
Despite being such a massive city, CDMX is lush. Trees line the streets, green walls cover the freeways, and plant life is everywhere. The only downside? That distinct sewage-y scent that hits now and then. Let’s just say I used my friendly first-world reminder, “no TP in the wee-wee”—tiny pipes, big problems. But hey, that’s part of the travel charm.
🌮 Food, Art, and Views
This city delivers when it comes to food—whether you’re crushing $0.50 tacos from a stand or sipping cocktails at one of the world’s top bars. The options are endless and worth every bite.
In 2023, I visited Museo Soumaya—a stunning, free art museum with a glimmering silver exterior and jaw-dropping collections inside. If you like views, the Museum of National History also had a worthy uphill climb for that postcard-perfect panorama.
📍 Final Thoughts + Travel Guide
CDMX is vibrant, gritty, green, and full of surprises. From floating in ancient caves to drifting over pyramids in a hot air balloon, this city turned my short weekend trip into a top-50 lifetime experience. Want to see more? Check out my Highlight Reels here.
🗺 Click here to check out my Google Maps guide with all my favorite CDMX spots, restaurants, and activities reviewed by yours truly.
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