Best and Worst neighborhoods in Mexico City

Mexico City is a sprawling metropolis with a population of over 21 million people. It is the capital of Mexico and one of the largest cities in the world. With such a large population, it's no surprise that Mexico City has a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and vibe. Some neighborhoods are vibrant and lively, while others are quiet and residential. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best and worst neighborhoods in Mexico City.

Best Neighborhoods:

1. Condesa

Condesa is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Mexico City, and for good reason. It's known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful parks, and Art Deco architecture. The neighborhood is home to many trendy bars, restaurants, and cafes, as well as boutique shops and galleries. It's also a popular spot for young professionals and expats, making it a great place to meet new people.

2. Polanco

Polanco is one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Mexico City, known for its luxury shopping and high-end restaurants. It's a popular destination for tourists, and many of the city's best hotels are located here. Polanco is also home to many cultural attractions, including museums and galleries, making it a great place to experience Mexican art and history.

3. Roma

Roma is another trendy neighborhood in Mexico City, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and cafes. It's home to many independent shops and boutiques, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene. The neighborhood is also known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, which can be seen in many of the buildings along its tree-lined streets.

4. Coyoacán

Coyoacán is a historic neighborhood located in the southern part of Mexico City. It's known for its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, as well as its vibrant arts scene. The neighborhood is home to many museums and galleries, as well as a popular market where you can find local handicrafts and traditional Mexican food. It's also the birthplace of the famous Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, and her former home, the Casa Azul, has been turned into a museum.

5. Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a modern neighborhood located in the western part of Mexico City. It's known for its skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and high-end restaurants. The neighborhood is popular with business travelers and expats, as it's home to many international corporations and embassies. It's also home to the Santa Fe Art Market, which is a great place to find contemporary art and handicrafts.

Worst Neighborhoods:

1. Tepito

Tepito is a neighborhood in Mexico City that's known for its high crime rates and gang activity. It's also known for its informal markets, where counterfeit goods are often sold. Visitors to Tepito are advised to be cautious and to avoid the area at night.

2. La Merced

La Merced is another neighborhood in Mexico City that's known for its high crime rates. It's also known for its red-light district, which can be dangerous for visitors. It's advised to avoid this neighborhood at night and to be cautious during the day.

3. Iztapalapa

Iztapalapa is a large neighborhood located in the eastern part of Mexico City. It's known for its high crime rates and poverty, and it's considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the city. Visitors to Iztapalapa are advised to be cautious and to avoid the area at night.

4. Gustavo A. Madero

Gustavo A. Madero is a neighborhood located in the northern part of Mexico City. It's known for its high crime rates and poverty, and it's considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the city. The area is known for gang activity, drug trafficking, and violent crime. Visitors are advised to avoid the neighborhood entirely.

5. Neza-Chalco-Itza

Neza-Chalco-Itza is a group of neighborhoods located in the eastern part of Mexico City. These neighborhoods are known for their high crime rates, poverty, and lack of basic infrastructure. The area is also known for gang activity and drug trafficking. Visitors are advised to avoid the area entirely, as it's considered extremely dangerous.

Factors that Determine the Best and Worst Neighborhoods in Mexico City:

There are several factors that determine the best and worst neighborhoods in Mexico City. These include:

1. Safety

One of the most important factors when it comes to determining the best and worst neighborhoods in Mexico City is safety. Neighborhoods with high crime rates, gang activity, and drug trafficking are considered the worst, while those with low crime rates and a strong police presence are considered the best.

2. Infrastructure

Another important factor is infrastructure. Neighborhoods with good infrastructure, including well-maintained roads and public transportation, are considered the best. Those with poor infrastructure, including lack of basic services such as electricity and water, are considered the worst.

3. Culture and Entertainment

Neighborhoods that offer a wide range of cultural attractions and entertainment options are considered the best. This includes museums, galleries, theaters, parks, and restaurants. Neighborhoods that lack these attractions are considered the worst.

4. Housing

The quality and affordability of housing is also an important factor. Neighborhoods with high-quality, affordable housing are considered the best, while those with poor-quality, expensive housing are considered the worst.

5. Accessibility

Finally, accessibility is an important factor when it comes to determining the best and worst neighborhoods in Mexico City. Neighborhoods that are easily accessible by public transportation and have good connectivity to other parts of the city are considered the best. Those that are isolated and difficult to reach are considered the worst.

Conclusion:

Mexico City is a diverse and vibrant city with a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and vibe. While some neighborhoods are known for their safety, cultural attractions, and high-quality housing, others are known for their poverty, crime rates, and lack of basic infrastructure. When visiting Mexico City, it's important to research the neighborhoods you plan to visit to ensure your safety and to get the most out of your experience. By considering factors such as safety, infrastructure, culture, housing, and accessibility, you can choose the best neighborhoods to visit and avoid the worst.