Where to stay in Mexico City: Polanco Guide
Polanco elicits imagery of all things high-end: modern museums covered in silver tiles, luxury brand shopping at Louis Vuitton and Hermès, and Michelin-star dining experiences. While glamor is this neighborhood’s reputation, there is so much more than just flashy features. As you explore you’ll discover rich culture, relaxing greenery, and far-extending history.
Treat this article like your personal Polanco Guide.
Where is Polanco in Mexico City
Polanco is a 4km stretch of restaurants, apartments, hotels, and shopping tucked into the northwest corner of Mexico City. Four parallel main avenues run the entire length of the neighborhood, making navigating the streets by foot or car exceptionally easy.
Proximity to the Airport
Mexico City Airport (MEX) is the eastmost feature in Mexico City; whereas, Polanco is nearly the westmost. Despite this disparity in location, to get from Polanco to Mexico City Airport only takes about 20 minutes without traffic. Be warned, however, that traffic in Mexico City is infamous. Plan ahead to make sure you don’t get stuck in rush-hour [when going from Polanco to Mexico City Airport].
Shopping
Please keep in mind that due to COVID-19 restrictions, public or communal spaces may be temporarily closed. The Mexican Ministry of Health recommends staying home when possible.
There’s no better district in Mexico City for a shopping spree than Polanco. Take to Avenida Masaryk to explore the designer storefronts or stroll through a shopping mall like Antara Fashion Hall or el Palacio De Hierro (temporarily closed due to semáforo rojo). There are smaller boutiques and shops hidden amongst Polanquito (literally “little Polanco”), a small district spanning a few blocks just south of Parque América.
Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Forest)
Anyone who has visited or lived in Mexico City will tell you that Bosque de Chapultepec is an essential stop. Luckily, the south side of Polanco borders the north side of Chapultepec’s first section, making access super easy. Walking through the gardens and dog parks is just one of many attractions the forest offers. Visitors can also find museums (Museo Nacional de Antropología, Museo Tamayo), a zoo (Zoológico de Chapultepec), and a central lake (Lago de Chapultepec). When you need an urban escape, let Bosque de Chapultepec transport you to nature and tranquility.
Parks
While Chapultepec is the largest park in the city, Polanco has green spaces of its own. Parque Lincoln is a long, beautiful park with a small lake where you can see toy boat races on Sundays. Parque Gandhi is an excellent spot for runners and walkers with its 1000m track, complete with exercise machines and benches for sitting and stretching. If you’re a dog lover, you’ll be sure to find a few pups in Plaza Uruguay as you relax by the impressive fountain.
Cuisine
Some of Latin America’s top restaurants are found in the Polanco neighborhood. The two most famous and awarded are Pujol and Quintonil, though they aren’t the only restaurants that can offer exceptional dining experiences. The Polanquito district has one of the highest concentrations of restaurants in the entire city. Stroll down these quaint streets to discover some of the city’s finest dining.
Museums
Please keep in mind that due to COVID-19 restrictions, public or communal spaces may be temporarily closed. The Mexican Ministry of Health recommends staying home when possible.
As you cruise down Avenida Ejército Nacional, it’s impossible to miss the glimmer of Museo Soumaya. This silvery, curving structure is a work of modern art itself, in addition to housing 66,000 pieces of art. The majority of artworks are European and date from the 15th to the 20th centuries. If you prefer contemporary art, walk across the way from Soumaya to Museo Jumex. The Museo Jumex features exciting rotating exhibits from current artistic leaders.
Galleries
Please keep in mind that due to COVID-19 restrictions, public or communal spaces may be temporarily closed.The Mexican Ministry of Health recommends staying home when possible.
If you enjoy a more intimate art-viewing experience or are looking to purchase, there are dozens of small galleries in Polanco. Most are concentrated in Polanco’s central blocks surrounding Parque América, making walking between each one easy and accessible. Sala de Arte Público Proyecto Siqueiros prides itself on featuring lesser-known artists. Galería Lopez Quiroga focuses on photography and sculptures, offering a mixed medium experience.
In Polanco you can dine at top restaurants, shop at high-end boutiques, and walk through expansive parks all in the same day! These are just some of the reasons to stay in Polanco. With all your day-to-day essentials covered and more, this picturesque neighborhood is an ideal home base for your stay in Mexico City.
Ready to move to this incredible neighborhood? Check out Casai’s top 5 units in Polanco:
1/5: Salton Bright Condo
This stunning, centrally-located 2BR apartment is fit for the modern traveler.
2/5: Landa Luxury Suite
Step into sleek and modern when you stay in this sunny, velvet-trimmed 2BR/2.5BA.
Relax and recharge at this gorgeous 2BR apartment equipped with the latest smart home technology.
4/5: Ameca Designer Suite
Whether you’re working from home or on vacation to unplug, this 2BR is the perfect home base.
5/5: Quintana Chic Condo
Have it all when you stay in this ready-to-live, spacious and sunny 2BR/2BA condo in downtown Polanco.
