One of the world's finest museums — the Aztec Sun Stone, Maya jade masks, and thousands of years of Mesoamerican civilisation under one roof.

The tree-lined neighbourhoods of Roma and Condesa — chef-driven taquerías, craft mezcal bars, and Art Deco architecture on every corner.

The only royal castle in the Americas — panoramic views over the city from the hill, plus Chapultepec's vast green park surrounding it.

Mexico City's vast central plaza — the National Palace murals by Diego Rivera, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the excavated Aztec Templo Mayor.

The Art Nouveau marble palace — murals by Rivera, Orozco, and Siqueiros inside, and the extraordinary stained-glass curtain.

Frida Kahlo's neighbourhood market — fresh tostadas, quesadillas de huitlacoche, and the vibrant colours of a working Mexican market.

The Blue House where Frida was born and lived — her paintings, personal effects, and the courtyard garden. Book tickets well ahead for race weekend.

A slow Sunday morning in Coyoacán — the plaza fountain, churros, a coffee under the trees, and the neighbourhood's bohemian charm.

Seek out the city's best tacos al pastor — spit-roasted pork with pineapple, cilantro, and salsa. A pre-race ritual that needs no occasion.

The ancient city of the gods — climb the Pyramid of the Sun, walk the Avenue of the Dead, and stand before the Pyramid of the Moon. An hour from the city.

Board a colourful flower boat and float through the ancient Aztec canal system — mariachi bands, food vendors on boats, and an atmosphere like nowhere else.

Mexico's legendary masked wrestling spectacle — theatrical, loud, and electric. Friday night fights are the best, but weekend shows run during race week too.