Where to Find the Romance Hidden in Mexico City

A romantic getaway in Mexico. That phrase may be more likely to conjure visions of an all-inclusive resort on one of the country’s many serene beaches rather than a trip to the bustling capital; however, overlooking Mexico City for your next south-of-the-border get-away with that special someone would mean cutting off its multitude of vibrant, sensual and exciting experiences. Mexico City is known for its thriving arts scene, colorful architecture, modern dining and hip nightlife. These are reasons enough to put it high on your list of must-visit destinations.

Can’t-miss neighborhoods in Mexico City are:

• Condesa: Mexico City’s answer to New York’s West Village, with a large selection of shops and restaurants (and a fun antique fair) surrounding Parque México.
• Polanco: One of the city’s poshest districts, which has expanded north, and added “Nuevo Polanco”, has lots of galleries and shopping.
• Roma: Filled with Art Nouveau mansions, this area has been revived by hipsters, artists, and boutique owners.

For those looking for a trip filled with romance, though, Mexico City also offers many hidden gems that you won’t find in the guidebooks. The following ideas will make you and your sweetheart feel like residents of Mexico City.

Go Downtown

If you’re looking for a romantic home base in Mexico City, look no further than the Downtown Mexico Hotel on the cobbled streets of Mexico City’s Centro Historico Borough. The Downtown is one of the oldest residences in the neighborhood, and its 17 rooms and suites were meticulously and beautifully renovated to maintain the indigenous culture and colonial style while adding luxurious modern conveniences.

You can’t help but fall in love while sipping a cocktail in their starry-lit magical-feeling main courtyard restaurant, or while dining on the majestic breakfast patio. The food is world-class, but at Mexico City prices (ie. less than you would expect).

Not only does Downtown have a two uber-romantic courtyard restaurants, but it also has a trendy rooftop restaurant and bar (with an adjoining pool and loungers), and several other smaller bars and shops, all with a cool Brooklyn vibe, on the second-floor mezzanine, overlooking the courtyard.

Be sure to reserve the Revolution Suite, which has a private balcony, bathtub and rain shower, and overlooks the breathtaking patio and gardens.

Plaza de Danzón

On Saturday afternoons, the beautiful square called ‘Plaza Morelos’ (outside of the Ciudadela market) is filled with couples learning to dance. These famous dancing lessons –a tradition in the area– are offered free of charge, and have led the square to be also known as Plaza de Danzón (Cuban Dance Square). Hundreds of couples gather to dance a seductive Cuban dance called the danzón. The danzón, while no longer popular in Cuba, is danced by people of every age all across Mexico. With men flamboyantly dressed in zoot suits and fedoras and the women in high heels and dresses, it is hard not to get caught up in the romance, even as a spectator. To really experience the magic though, take a danzón lesson during the week, and join as the pachucos and pachucas move to the Cuban rhythms.

Cineteca Nacional

When walking to an outdoor movie screening at the gorgeously modern buildings and lush lawn of the Cineteca Nacional, couples are sometimes suggestively asked if they would like one or two mats to place on the grass while watching the film. This should tell you all you need to know about the romantic potential of this Mexico City outing.

Desierto de los Leones

If you are looking for a break from the pace of the city, you don’t have to travel outside of the city limits to visit the serene and natural beauty of Desierto de los Leones National Park. While other tourists flock to Chapultepec Park, you and your love can take advantage of this less-crowded, but just-as-impressive gem. Stroll hand-in-hand through the miles of old oaks, firs and pines, or visit the grounds and museums of a monastery that dates back to the 1660s. Pack a lunch to have a romantic picnic, or buy a delicious traditional quesadilla to share from a stand near the monastery.

Bicycle Through the City

If you really want to see the heart of Mexico City, but are scared off by tales of busy traffic, wait until Sunday when half of the streets in the city close to car travel. Then, rent a pair of bicycles. This is the perfect way to take your time and really experience some of the city’s most colorful neighborhoods.

Tip: Let your friends know that you’ll be taking Uber wherever you go. This way you’ll be safe and there’ll be a record of where you went and the driver who took you there.