The capital and largest city of Mexico is a bustling metropolis that has evolved into a chic international destination amid ancient ruins and a rich pre-Hispanic past.

Mexico City is a joy to explore, offering everything from the ruins of ancient Aztec temples like Templo Mayor to the Metropolitan Cathedral or National Palace, from the colorful cobblestone streets of Frida Kahlo’s former neighborhood, Coyoacán, to the stylish mezcal bars of Roma, from the street tacos of La Condesa to gourmet dining at Pujol, and from world-class galleries like Palacio de Bellas Artes to the vibrant street art murals scattered throughout the city.

As an important center of business and culture, Mexico City boasts a more open-minded community and is often seen as the gay mecca of Mexico. In fact, it was the first city in the country to legalize gay marriage in 2010. It also hosts one of the largest Pride celebrations in Latin America, attracting over a million participants annually. It is said that all cities have a their own distinctive energy; Mexico City's is that of an ancient Latino soul clashing with thriving cosmopolitanism.

Table of Contents

1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfer
3. Gay Hotels in Mexico City
4. Sightseeing & Activities in Mexico City
5. Mexico City Gay Tours
6. Restaurants & Cafes in Mexico City
7. Mexico City Gay Bars and Clubs
8. Mexico City Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
9. Gay Events in Mexico City
10. Day Trips from Mexico City

General Tips

The best time to visit Mexico City is between March and May. Although you’ll encounter some crowds, the weather is beautiful, with daytime highs in the mid-70s and a lower chance of rain. Keep in mind that winters can be chilly, and summers can be rainy. Other considerations include Mexico City’s elevation, which sits at 7,382 feet above sea level, as well as the city’s notorious air pollution. It would be disingenuous to say crime isn’t a problem in Mexico City, but don’t let that deter you from visiting—just be careful with your belongings and avoid known dangerous areas.

The Zona Rosa (Pink Zone) and Calle Amberes are the hubs of Mexico City’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, where most gay bars and clubs can be found. The Roma and Condesa neighborhoods next door, often compared to NYC’s SoHo, offer a more relaxed, trendy vibe with many cafes, parks, and galleries. Another alternative to Zona Rosa is República de Cuba Street in the Historic City Center.

Transportation & Airport Transfer

The Mexico City International Airport (MEX), officially named Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez, is located just 3 miles east of downtown Mexico City in the Peñón de los Baños neighborhood. The airport has two passenger terminals (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2). Terminal 1 is the largest terminal in the Americas, and all Aeroméxico flights arrive and depart from Terminal 2.

From the airport, you have several options to get to your destination in downtown Mexico City, including bus, shuttle, metro, and taxi. We recommend taking an authorized airport taxi for the safest and most comfortable experience. The cost is about $15 USD, and it takes approximately 20 minutes to reach downtown. Taxi tickets are sold at modules located near the arrival gates in the walkway area.

There are also two bus terminals operating 24 hours, connecting Mexico City with surrounding areas. Another option is the Metrobus (Line 4), a public bus that runs to and from the city center. A one-way ticket from Mexico City Airport costs $1.50, and you’ll reach downtown in about 30 minutes. The Metro (Line 5) also goes to the city center, costs under $1 USD, and takes around 50 minutes.

Gay Hotels in Mexico City 

There aren't currently any exclusively gay hotels in Mexico City, but there are many gay-friendly options.

W Hotel Mexico City – Located off Reforma Boulevard in the stylish Polanco neighborhood, this trendy, modern hotel offers 237 sleek and fashionable guest rooms and suites, each with a minibar and the comforts of home. Enjoy a cocktail and snacks at the Living Room Bar or savor Mexican contemporary cuisine at 25DOS. Rejuvenate at the spa and fitness center, or relax on the rooftop terrace.

Hotel Geneve – This 5-star hotel, opened in 1907, is one of Mexico's most legendary hotels, having hosted Mexican presidents and diplomats over the years. Its 226 rooms feature period furniture that creates a classic European style, while also offering modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a meal at Veranda Bistro, visit the business center, spa, or phone bar (lounge), and make use of the gym and fitness center.

Condesa DF – This contemporary 4-star hotel is located in the stylish Condesa neighborhood. Housed in a 1928 building, its 40 thoughtfully designed guest rooms and suites are calm and tranquil, with some opening onto wooden terraces. Guests can enjoy Mexican and French cuisine at El Patio or take in incredible views with a cocktail at the rooftop lounge, La Terraza.

Amberes 64 – Located on Calle Amberes, right in Mexico City’s “pink zone” and home to many gay bars, this 4-star hotel is ideal for those wanting to be in the center of LGBTQ+ nightlife. Rooms have a classic, homely feel, with some offering an impressive city-view terrace. Guests are also welcome to use the hotel’s private sauna.

Hotel del Principado – A 3-star hotel offering 50 comfortable rooms in the Zona Rosa neighborhood, a central spot for sightseeing. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and bar, which serves all meals, including a breakfast buffet.

El Patio 77 – This boutique hotel, a stylish bed and breakfast, makes for a convenient base to explore Mexico City. It offers free Wi-Fi, massage services, and bicycle rentals. Rooms are tranquil, well-designed, and comfortable, providing all essentials, including a desk. Breakfast is available each morning, and there are numerous cafés and eateries close by.

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Sightseeing & Activities in Mexico City

Plaza de la Constitución (Zócalo) – The main square in Mexico City, this was once the ceremonial center of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan before the arrival of the Spanish conquerors. Today, it serves as an events venue and the city’s central hub, surrounded by the Metropolitan Cathedral of Mexico City, the National Palace, the Historic City Hall, and the Government Building. Book tour →

Templo Mayor – The main temple of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan and a focal point of Aztec religion, Templo Mayor was razed during the Spanish conquest and eventually built over with 19th-century colonial buildings. Today, you can visit the excavation site located in the historic city center. Book tour →

Palacio de Bellas Artes – As Mexico City’s cultural center, the Palace of Fine Arts is a grand building featuring an art nouveau exterior and art deco-style architecture. Visitors can enjoy cultural events in the national theater, view famous murals in the galleries, and explore the National Museum of Architecture on the top floor Book tour →

Chapultepec Park – Often called “Bosque de Chapultepec,” this is one of the largest parks in the Western Hemisphere and an ecological treasure in Mexico City. Here, you’ll find several museums, a zoo, and its main attraction, Chapultepec Castle, which sits above the trees, offering breathtaking views of the surroundings. Book tour →

Frida Kahlo Museum – Also known as the “Blue House,” this was Frida Kahlo’s family home, where she was born and later passed away. Four years after her death, it was turned into a museum containing some of her most famous works and personal objects that shaped her world. Book tour →

Mexico City Gay Tours

Gay Side of History at the Heart of Town – A short but rich tour to learn about LGBTQ+ history around some of Mexico City’s main attractions. This tour passes the Museo de Templo Mayor, Frida Kahlo's high school, the National Museum of Art, the Fifth Post Office, and much more.

Club Tengo Hambre – While not a dedicated LGBTQ+ tour, this experience is deliciously good! Mexico City is known as one of the world’s most exciting food cities, with an overwhelming selection of eateries—especially among its many street vendors. Club Tengo Hambre offers various food tours to help you navigate the diverse world of Mexico City’s street cuisine. Choose from tours exploring different neighborhoods, like Merced Market or Condesa, a nighttime food tour, or even book your own private tour. And yes… there will be tacos!

Restaurants & Cafes in Mexico City 

Revolving Bellini Restaurant – The world’s largest revolving restaurant, located on the 45th floor of the city’s World Trade Center. Enjoy a 3-course dinner featuring Mexican and international cuisine while taking in 360-degree panoramic views of the city below. It’s ideal for a romantic evening or special occasion.

Quintonil – Ranked as one of the best restaurants in the world, this is a gastronomic project led by Alejandra Flores and Jorge Vallejo, designed to express Mexican flavors with a personal touch. The menu incorporates seasonal items, and a single plate can cost several hundred dollars.

La Casa de Toño – This popular chain restaurant with over 50 locations serves up delicious Mexican plates without breaking the bank. Known for its famous pozole and other traditional Mexican dishes, it offers vegetarian-friendly options and is a great spot for a quick meal—breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Contramar – Known as the best seafood restaurant in Mexico City, Contramar has a reputation for fresh fish and shellfish, caught daily and prepared with culinary flair. The chef here even serves as a culinary advisor to the Mexican president. The menu includes shrimp tacos, Galician-style octopus, and other seafood delicacies.

Cafebrería El Pendulo – More than just a bookstore and restaurant, this is a cultural center with activities and live music. Located in the Condesa neighborhood since 1993, it has expanded to six locations, each with eclectic decor and a comfortable coffee-shop vibe. Stop in for a bite and a good read.

Mexico City Gay Bars and Clubs

Drrama By 42 – Located in the Zona Rosa area, this bar features an industrial interior with rough edges and a trendy look. It attracts a mixed crowd and is usually busy, as there’s no cover charge. Throughout the week, enjoy karaoke nights, drag shows, and daily specials.

Kinky Bar – In the heart of Zona Rosa, this upscale gay bar offers three themed areas over two floors: a Mexican cantina, a glass karaoke bar, and a smoking terrace. It’s a great place to drink and dance, attracting a young, vibrant crowd of both guys and girls.

Nicho Bears & Bar – Part of the BearMex group, this is where Mexico City’s osos (bears) and their admirers gather. With lively music and a crowd of mature bears, it’s a great spot for cruising. Enjoy drink specials, themed nights, and dancing.

Marrakech Salón – This no-frills bar has a kitschy, retro vibe. Follow the neon lights to find go-go boys dancing on the bar, reasonably priced drinks and specials, as well as strippers and drag queens parading around. It’s a lively scene with an energetic crowd ready to party until sunrise.

El Pecado – A lively, unpretentious bar in the historic city center. By night, expect drag queens and muscular men inviting you to dance on stage to pop and reggaeton beats. There’s even an unused swing for fun photo ops.

La Purísima – From the owners of Marrakech, this club will have you thinking you’ve died and gone to gay heaven with its large dance floor and quirky decor. A cheekily irreverent religious motif runs throughout the space, featuring black walls, a giant neon cross, more neon lights, and art that’s more pornographic than pure.

Baby – One of the city’s newer clubs, Baby is also in Zona Rosa and follows a no-frills, fun-loving concept. It caters to a young millennial crowd, drawn by cheap drinks, a pink neon glow, and a unicorn mural on the wall. Enjoy a DJ, drag shows, themed nights, and dance to pop hits mixed with reggaeton. You might even catch a dance battle that’s worth the price of admission alone.

Leonor – Secretly tucked away in the Condesa neighborhood, this club is the place to be. Thursday nights host one of the best gay nights around, with pop/electronic music, a trendy crowd, and hot bartenders in speedos.

Pervert – A gritty, alternative underground dance party that fosters an inclusive space and encourages sexual expression. Partygoers can enjoy a mix of disco, house, and techno music paired with performances, nudity, and art displays. Here, you’ll find a diverse crowd, including unshaven men, drag queens, and gender-defying dance enthusiasts.

Mexico City Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars

Tom’s Leather Bar – A Mexico City institution located just outside Zona Rosa, this cruise and leather bar has a dark, gothic interior with vaulted ceilings and eclectic decor. Several screens play adult films, and a thrilling dark room awaits. The crowd is surprisingly mixed, and everyone is welcome. It’s especially popular on weekends, with go-go boys on the bar, strippers, and drink specials.

Baños Finisterre – A staple in Mexico City, this gay bathhouse and sauna is frequented by locals and doubles as an after-hours spot, busiest in the early morning on Saturdays and Sundays. Massages and treatments are recommended and reasonably priced, while the showers, dry sauna, and steam bath provide a relaxing end to a night out.

Sodome Bath House – A gay bathhouse offering a bar, sauna, steam room, maze, dark room, foam room, dance floor, and weekly events. With a DJ in the lobby, chill vibes, and monthly themed parties on the last Friday of each month, this spot offers a fun, towel-optional night out.

Gay Events in Mexico City

Mexico City Gay Pride – Taking place at the end of June, the annual Gay Pride celebration culminates with a parade starting at the Ángel de la Independencia, with crowds gathering at the Estela de Luz. Marchers proceed down Paseo de la Reforma, ending with performances and a massive party.

Day Trips from Mexico City

Teotihuacan – Located about 30 miles northeast of Mexico City, a visit to these ancient Aztec pyramids makes for an easy day trip. Buses leave from Mexico City’s North Bus Terminal every 30–60 minutes to this significant archaeological site. Visitors can hike to the tops of the Pyramid of the Moon and the Pyramid of the Sun to enjoy panoramic views and admire the Temple of Quetzalcoatl. Arriving early in the day is recommended to enjoy cooler temperatures and smaller crowds. Book tour →

Puebla – Approximately 2 hours southeast of Mexico City, the bus ride costs 130 pesos, and several lines frequently make the trip from Mexico City’s TAPO Bus Station. You can also catch a bus directly from the Mexico City Airport. As one of the country’s oldest cities, Puebla boasts well-preserved colonial architecture, warm hospitality, and a relaxed atmosphere. Puebla is known for its culinary history and artisan pottery. Top sights include the Zócalo (main square), the colonial cathedral, the Amparo Museum (featuring pre-Hispanic and colonial art), the religious art museum, and the oldest public library in the Americas. Book tour →

Cuernavaca – Just an hour and a half bus ride south of Mexico City, this well-known colonial city is the capital of Mexico’s Morelos state. Known as ‘The Land of Eternal Spring’ due to its mild year-round climate, Cuernavaca offers lush surroundings and notable attractions such as the Zócalo with the Plaza de Armas and Palacio de Gobierno, the 16th-century Palace of Cortés (now a history museum with murals by Diego Rivera), Cuernavaca Cathedral, the Jardín Borda gardens, and the Museo Casa Robert Brady. Book tour →

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