If you’ve ever had the idea to come to Mexico City during the summer and then changed your mind, this post is for you. Did you think it would be too hot? Too crowded? Too expensive to fly? All myths! Now that I have been running tours for eight years I’ve noticed that every May, June, July, and even part of August I get fewer tour requests and there are fewer tourists in the streets.
I have a few theories why. One reason might be that many of my clients are from the United States and Canada and for them summer months mean going to the beach, mountains, or the family cabin. I also think people believe Mexico City will be boiling hot and humid, overrun with tourists, and expensive to get to (like Cancun or Puerto Vallarta). That description is actually a closer fit for New York, Chicago, or Washington D.C. than Mexico’s capital. Let’s look at the reality of a summer trip to Mexico City.
Mild Weather
From about mid-May to mid-October is Mexico City’s rainy season. That means day time temperatures range between 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit and almost every afternoon around 3 or 4pm the rain begins. This can mean a little sprinkle or quick rain shower, but is more likely a downpour that lasts over an hour, sometimes all evening long.
When the rain stops the temperature has dropped dramatically it’s best to have a sweater and pants handy if you want to be out in the street and I suggest you pack an umbrella or raincoats for your trip here. Since Mexico City sits at 7,300 feet above sea level we never have humidity over 50% and there are few mosquitos to worry about.
Easier to get restaurant reservations
Mexico City dwellers themselves are often on vacation during the summer months when their kids are off school. They travel to the beach and other destinations abroad and further thing the crowds. Because this is our “shoulder season” it can be easier to get into normally hard to book restaurants like Rosetta, Contramar, and Maximo. Many weeknight dinners can be had without even making a reservation.
Easier to get into the 50 Best Bars
Same goes as above. Since the 50 Best Bars of North America list came out in 2022 it’s been an impossible feat to get a reservation at Handshake, Baltra, and Hanky Panky speakeasy. Less tourists mean less competition for these usually more “exclusive bars” and others equally as good but without the same international clout. For places you can’t book online far enough in advance be sure to call, as most have an on-staff person who speaks English.
Easier to book tours and attractions
I’ve already admitted that I have much more space in my tour calendar during these months, but places like Casa Baragan, Casa Azul, and Casa Gilardi will also be easier to book tickets for. This is my favorite time of the year to make itineraries for people because all the reservations are endlessly simpler to get. Remember that it rains everyday and book tours for the morning with long leisurely lunches and dinners afterwards.
Cheap Flights to Mexico City
Even if they’re not basement bargain prices, flights in the summer to CDMX are no more expensive that in the spring, and much cheaper than over Thanksgiving or Christmas. I’m writing this the first week of June and found a ticket from L.A. for 250usd, from Chicago for 300usd and from New York for 350usd, all just a few weeks from now.
If you’ve been scared off of coming to Mexico City in the summertime by any of these myths about travel here I would encourage you to come and see what a pleasant place the city can be during this time.
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