Centro Histórico

Mexico City, Mexico

Overall Safety
Moderate
3.3 / 5
Based on 12 Safety Metrics
Summary

Centro Histórico has the main historical sites and museums with decent tourist police during the day. Good for day visits to see the Zócalo and major attractions, but avoid staying here overnight or walking around after dark. Use ride-sharing if you need to be here in the evening.

Historic and cultural epicenterColonial architecture and museumsBustling daytime atmosphereTourist police presenceUNESCO World Heritage site
Details

Centro Histórico has all the main tourist stuff - the huge main square (Zócalo), the cathedral, and the National Palace with those famous murals. Tourist police hang out by the cathedral during the day and actually speak English, which is helpful. The pedestrian street Madero is great for shopping and people-watching during the day. But this area completely changes at night - those charming colonial streets get pretty empty and sketchy after dark. It's fine for day trips to see the sights, but I wouldn't recommend staying here overnight or walking around after dinner. The contrast between busy day crowds and empty evening streets is pretty dramatic. Alameda park is nice during the day but avoid the sketchy areas that border it.

Safety Ratings

Daytime Safety

Good

Night Walking Safety

Moderate

Harassment Risk

Moderate

Public Transport Safety

Good

Pickpocketing Risk

High

Scam Risk

Moderate

Police Visibility

Excellent

Emergency Services

Excellent

Evening Venues

Moderate

Solo Dining

Good

Drug Activity

Moderate

Homelessness Visibility

Moderate

Getting By in English

Good
Recommended Places

Cafes

  • Café de Tacuba
  • Gran Hotel Ciudad de México Café
  • Café Gante

Restaurants

  • El Cardenal
  • Azul Histórico
  • Hostería Santo Domingo

Bars

  • Bar La Ópera
  • Terraza Gran Hotel

Other Spots

  • Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución)
  • Palacio de Bellas Artes
  • Templo Mayor Museum
Impressions & Tips

"Amazing museums and culture during the day with good police presence"

"Definitely use Uber at night - doesn't feel safe to walk after dark"

"Perfect for day trips but wouldn't stay here overnight"

"Tourist police are very helpful and visible during the day"

"Best to visit with organized tours for evening activities"

Based on aggregated research results
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Safety Reminder

Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.