Mexico City in May for Weather, Events & Travel Tips
Traveling to Mexico City in May? Here’s the ultimate guide with all the information you need to make the most out of your visit!
Mexico City is a wonderful destination to visit any time of the year, and May is no exception.
This spring month marks the transition from the dry season to the rainy season, offering a diverse range of experiences for everyone looking to explore this fascinating city that seamlessly blends rich culture with modernity.
Mexico City in May has very pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures hovering between 64°F and 79°F and sporadic rain showers that last a short while, usually in the afternoon.
In this blog post, I will share essential travel tips, packing suggestions, weather insights, and highlight a few must-visit places to help you plan the perfect escape to Mexico City in May.
Mexico City in May: What is it Like?
👉🏽 Is May a Good Time to Visit Mexico City?
May is a great time to visit Mexico City. The warm spring weather makes the city come alive with various cultural and social outdoor activities.
May marks the beginning of the rainy season in Mexico City.
Worry not, though, as the rain showers are still sporadic at this point in time, with them taking place during the afternoon, if at all, most probably in the last days of the month.
👉🏽 Is it Cheaper in Mexico City in May?
The best time to book flights to Mexico is usually in the off-season months, which are typically April, May, September, and October.
This is the time for cheaper flights and accommodations, due to the lower tourist demand.
However, Mexico City moves under a different logic, due to the numerous business travelers that fly in, although you are likely to find good deals with a little bit of patience.
As for food, beverage, and attraction prices, they tend to remain about the same year-round.
👉🏽 Is Mexico City Safe to Travel to in May?
Yes, Mexico City in May is safe, provided you observe the regular precautions in any large city.
Stay vigilant, keep your belongings close, don’t display costly items, and watch out for pickpockets (especially in the metro and the Centro Historico area).
👉🏽 Mexico City Weather in May
Mexico City’s weather in May is sunny and pleasant, with possible rain showers, especially on the last days of the month.
👉🏽 Mexico City Temperature in May
Daytime temperatures in May usually range from 65°F to 80°F or even higher. Evenings can be cooler, especially when it rains, so carry a light cardigan or jacket for comfort regardless of temperature drops.
👉🏽 What Season is May in Mexico City?
May is springtime in Mexico City, meaning warm and sunny with occasional rain in the last part of the month.
👉🏽 Is May Rainy in Mexico City?
May in Mexico City marks the transition from dry to wet season, so it is possible to get some rain, especially on the last days of the month.
Make sure to come prepared with a light jacket and umbrella.
👉🏽 How Do People Dress in Mexico City in May?
People in Mexico City tend to wear light clothes made of breathable fabric in May.
Spring dresses and skirts, jeans, long pants, and shorts with lightweight tops and t-shirts are all in.
Comfortable walking or tennis shoes and sandals are very common, while a light sweater or cardigan is not unheard of at some point during the evening, especially following an afternoon rain shower.
Best Places to Visit in Mexico City in May
1. Centro Histórico
Centro Histórico or Historic Center, is a large area in Mexico City where a wonderful array of historical buildings and sites can be found.
The designated UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered one of the most important historic centers in the world due to the large number of buildings that showcase the architecture from different eras that go back to pre-Columbian times.
Home to Mexico City landmarks like the Zocalo, National Palace, the Templo Mayor archaeological site, and the gorgeous Art Deco Palacio de Bellas Artes, Centro Historico is also full of museums, old churches, shops, and restaurants.
2. Chapultepec Castle (National Museum of History)
Perched on a hill inside Chapultepec Park, Castillo de Chapultepec is a stunning history museum full of art, artifacts, period rooms, stained glass, and a gorgeous garden.
The museum is housed in what was Maximilian and Carlota’s royal castle during Mexico’s second reign (1864-1867) after serving as a vacation palace for European viceroys in the 1500s, and a military academy and fort until the 1860s.
The steep walk is well rewarded with breathtaking views of the city and the opportunity to explore the castle and adjacent garden.
3. Chapultepec Park
Chapultepec Park is a huge urban park right smack in Mexico City sprawled over 1,600 acres. This means it is double the size of Central Park in NYC!
Home to Chapultepec Castle and other museums, botanical gardens, two artificial lakes, exercise areas, and cultural centers, Chapultepec is a must-go for an incredible historical, cultural, and nature-filled experience during your getaway to Mexico City in May.
4. Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul)
Frida Kahlo Museum or Casa Azul (Blue House), pays tribute to the life and works of the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and is a must-visit for her fans.
Set in her real home in the Coyoacan district where the artist spent most of her life, it displays a unique collection of her artwork, as well as some of her personal belongings like her paints and paintbrushes, her bed, clothing, and more.
5. Xochimilco
Sail along the canals of Xochimilco on a trajinera (a traditional boat decorated with colorful flowers and other paraphernalia) for a unique cultural experience.
Floating markets provide food and drinks, while mariachi bands play lively Mexican music.
Xochimilco is famous for its ice cream, so be sure to try out at least one of its unique flavors, which include regular lemon and strawberry, as well as some unusual deals like avocado, corn, mezcal, and tequila!
6. Teotihuacan Pyramids
Teotihuacan is a pre-Hispanic archaeological site located 30 miles (48 km) from Mexico City, which offers an amazing cultural experience.
Showcasing the world-famous Sun and Moon pyramids and other well-preserved ruins of temples, palaces, temples, and living quarters, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is well worth a day trip.
The town of Teotihuacan has many dining and souvenir shops, which gives you the chance to taste some authentic Mexican cuisine and to get a few gifts and crafts to take home.
7. National Museum of Anthropology
The National Museum of Anthropology is one of Mexico City’s most important attractions for history and cultural immersion.
Located in the Chapultepec-Polanco area, it houses a stunning collection of artifacts and art that have been used by indigenous tribes in Central America from pre-Columbian times until today.
Here, you can check out the Colossal Olmec Head, a detailed model of ancient Tenochtitlan, a Chac-Mool figure, jade masks, and other wonderful displays that illustrate the rich history of indigenous peoples in Mexico and the importance of corn in their lifestyle and traditions.
8. Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral
The Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral is an impressive religious and historical landmark in Mexico City.
Consisting of 5 buildings, 40 columns, 51 vaults, and 74 arches, the complex is considered one of the most relevant religious sites in the Americas.
Construction of the cathedral was ordered by Hernan Cortes, which took more than 100 years to be completed.
It is worth a visit to admire the impressive baroque architecture and the fantastic art housed inside.
Mexico City Holidays and Events in May
🎊 Cinco de Mayo (May 5th)
Although it is not a major holiday in Mexico compared to Independence Day on September 15th, it is celebrated with parades, flag ceremonies, and other events.
Ironically, a bigger deal is made in the US, although it is observed as a school and work holiday, so expect to see more people in some attractions.
🎊 Mother’s Day (May 10th)
Mother’s Day is a very big deal in Mexico City. Families get together and often dine out, so expect restaurants to be more crowded than usual from morning till night, many of them requiring reservations for this specific date.
Consider dining in or having a picnic in one of Mexico City’s wonderful urban parks. Chapultepec and Tamayo are good options.
🎊 Teacher’s Day (May 15th)
Celebrated on May 15th, this day is all about pampering teachers. It is a school holiday, so you might find some attractions and restaurants a bit more crowded than usual on a workday.
🎊 Festival de las Culturas Amigas (Festival of Friendly Cultures)
Held annually in May, this multicultural event showcases the diversity of international cultures.
You’ll find food stands, music, dance, and art from many countries, which is a great chance to explore other countries’ cultures during your escape to Mexico City in May.
What to Pack for Mexico City in May
Pack light clothing for warm or hot weather, preferably made with breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.
Include jeans, t-shirts, lightweight tops, sundresses, and shorts, as well as a light cardigan or jacket.
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses are musts.
You might consider a pair of sneakers or comfortable sandals, as well as a wide-brimmed hat, a light raincoat, and an umbrella, especially for long excursions.
Don’t worry if space doesn’t allow you to pack rain gear, though, as you´ll find ponchos and umbrellas sold by street vendors just about everywhere at very reasonable or downright low prices as soon as the wet season begins.
Mexico City in April Travel Tips
📌 Book accommodations in advance to avoid stress, although May is not a particularly busy tourist season in Mexico City.
📌 Pack light clothing and a cardigan or light jacket for the evenings, when the weather is cooler.
📌 Plan a stroll or bike tour along Reforma Avenue. If you’re lucky, you might still catch a few jacarandas, the famed purple flowers that come to full bloom during March and April.
📌 Mexico City is a pedestrian-friendly city, and you’ll probably do a lot of exploring on foot. Comfortable footwear is a must.
📌 Always carry some cash. Most shops and restaurants take debit and credit cards, but you’re sure to come across many street souvenirs, food, and snack vendors, as well as market stands and small shops that will only take cash.
📌 Visit one or two markets in the city to enjoy delicious Mexican and international cuisine and buy a few gifts and souvenirs to take home.
San Juan, Medellin, Coyoacan, and Juarez are great options. Mercado de Jamaica is wonderful for buying flowers and piñatas at very reasonable prices.
📌 Mexico City has an extensive and inexpensive transportation system with varied options like the Metro, Metrobus, buses, and Uber. Rental bikes and motorcycles are also available.
If you plan on using public transport or renting a government Ecobici bike, purchase an MI card in metro and metro station dispensers. It costs $20 pesos (a little over 1 dollar/euro).
📌 Every Sunday, Paseo de la Reforma’s main lanes are closed to cars and buses from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., becoming a huge exercise arena for people of all ages and walks of life.
You’ll see people biking, skating, and walking, as well as offering all kinds of classes on some street corners. Yoga, salsa, danzon, and modern dance are some examples.
So, take precautions, or better yet, join in the healthy fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mexico City Warm in May?
Yes. Mexico City is quite warm in May, with day temperatures hovering between 65°F and 80°F or higher.
What Part of Mexico is Best in May?
The best part of Mexico in May depends on what you’re after.
Cancun, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabos are perfect if a tropical beach holiday is what’s on your mind.
If Mexican culture and history are your travel goals, Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende, Merida, and Mexico City are good cities to explore.
How Hot is Mexico City in May?
Mexico City in May can get very warm or even hot, with temperatures ranging from 65°F and 80°F or more during the day, then dropping to about 60°F at night.
It is not a scorching heat at all, but you should keep yourself hydrated.
Is it Cold in Mexico in May?
No, it’s not cold in Mexico City in May, as the days are sunny and warm, with temperatures going from 65°F to the lower 80s°F.
Nights are cooler, with temperatures hovering in the 60s°F.
What is the Wet Season in Mexico City?
The wet or rainy season in Mexico City runs from June to September, although it is not uncommon to have a few showers in the last days of May.
Don’t worry, though, if they do happen, they will last only for a while and will not dampen your vacation, especially if you come prepared and plan for some sheltered activities like the Museo Nacional de Antropología and other museums.
Is Mexico City Dry in May?
Mexico City is mostly dry in May, although some showers can occur, as this is the month that marks the transition from dry to wet or rainy season.
What is a Popular Celebration in Mexico City in May?
Popular celebrations in May include Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day, Teacher’s Day, and the Festival of Friendly Cultures.
Does Mexico City Get Cold at Night in May?
Mexico City does not get cold at night in May, with temperatures usually hovering in the 60s°F.
What is the Best Month to Visit Mexico City?
The best month to visit Mexico City depends on what your traveling goals are.
If nice, dry weather ideal for exploring is what you want, October through mid-May is the dry season.
March and April offer warmer weather, with the perk of Jacarandas blooming and producing a gorgeous spectacle of natural beauty.
Late October and early November offer a variety of Day of the Dead celebrations and traditions.
Final Thoughts: Mexico City in May
May is an excellent time to experience Mexico City’s vibrant atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine.
With these travel tips, packing ideas, and suggestions for must-visit places, you should be well-prepared to make the most of your spring adventure to this incredible city.
Before You Go…
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About the Author: Dani Ramos
Dani is a travel writer and blogger from Mexico City who traveled all over the world for 5 years before returning to Mexico. After visiting and living in so many different countries, she realized how lucky she is to call Mexico her home.
