Polanco: The Chic and Cultural Heart of Mexico City

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Polanco is one of Mexico City's most sophisticated and vibrant neighborhoods. Situated in the northwest part of the city, Polanco is renowned for its upscale shopping, luxurious hotels, and gourmet dining. The area is also rich in cultural landmarks, making it a must-visit for any traveler seeking both relaxation and adventure. The neighborhood's main thoroughfare, Avenida Presidente Masaryk, is often compared to New York's Fifth Avenue or Paris's Champs-Élysées. Here, you'll find high-end boutiques featuring international brands, as well as charming local shops. Polanco is also home to some of the most iconic restaurants in Mexico City, offering a diverse range of cuisines from traditional Mexican to innovative fusion dishes. Polanco is not just a shopper's paradise; it is also steeped in culture and history. The neighborhood boasts several museums, including the world-famous Museo Soumaya, which houses an extensive collection of European and Mexican art. The nearby Chapultepec Park, one of the largest city parks in the world, offers a green oasis perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. In addition to its cultural and commercial attractions, Polanco is known for its beautiful architecture. The neighborhood features a mix of colonial revival, art deco, and contemporary designs, making it a visually stunning area to explore on foot. Whether you're here for the shopping, the food, or the cultural enrichment, Polanco promises an unforgettable experience.

Local tips in Polanco

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heaviest traffic and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
Don't miss the Museo Soumaya; it's free to enter and offers a stunning art collection.
Wear comfortable shoes as Polanco is best explored on foot, with many attractions within walking distance.
Make a reservation if you plan to dine at one of Polanco's high-end restaurants to avoid long wait times.
Explore the side streets off Avenida Presidente Masaryk for hidden gems and unique boutiques.

File:Museo Soumaya Mexico City Exterior.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Archivo:Acuario Inbursa entrance.jpg - Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre

File:Chapultepec Ecological Park, lake.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Avenida Presidente Masaryk, Polanco.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Stylish Outdoor Dining, Tacombi (50742661047).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Mexico - Mexico City, Lincoln Park at Polanco - panoramio.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Museo Nacional de Antropología, Mexico DF, Marzo 1974 - Entrance IFrog.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:US Embassy Riyadh lit green for 2022 Foundation Day of Saudi Arabia (2).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Archivo:Auditorio Nacional de Música (Madrid) 04.jpg - Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Bosque de Chapultepec

Discover the beauty and history of Bosque de Chapultepec, an expansive urban park in Mexico City filled with museums, lakes, and lush greenery.

Chapultepec Castle

Explore the historic Chapultepec Castle, a stunning fusion of architecture, history, and breathtaking views in the heart of Mexico City.

Museo Soumaya

Explore Museo Soumaya, a unique art museum in Mexico City housing an extensive collection of masterpieces and captivating architecture, free for all visitors.

Parque Lincoln

Experience the beauty and tranquility of Parque Lincoln, a lush urban park in Polanco, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.

Jardín Botánico del Bosque de Chapultepec

Explore the stunning Jardín Botánico del Bosque de Chapultepec, a serene escape in the heart of Mexico City, brimming with diverse plant life and tranquility.

Plaza Uruguay

Experience the tranquil beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Plaza Uruguay, a hidden gem in the heart of Polanco, Mexico City.

Las Alcobas, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Mexico City

Discover luxury at Las Alcobas, a premier hotel in Polanco, Mexico City, offering exquisite accommodations and top-tier amenities for an unforgettable stay.

Monumento a Simon Bolivar (Obelisco y Fuente)

Explore the iconic Monumento a Simon Bolivar in Mexico City, a stunning symbol of liberation surrounded by lush landscapes and vibrant culture.

Busto a Luis Donaldo Colosio

Explore the Busto a Luis Donaldo Colosio, a significant monument in Mexico City that honors a political legacy amidst the beauty of Polanco.

Escultórico Polanco Park

Discover the serene beauty of Escultórico Polanco Park, a vibrant urban oasis filled with art, greenery, and community spirit in the heart of Mexico City.

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

Explore the Martin Luther King Jr. Monument in Polanco, a powerful tribute to civil rights and a serene spot for reflection in the heart of Mexico City.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN 1809 ~ 1865

Discover the Abraham Lincoln Monument in Mexico City, a captivating tribute to freedom and equality that inspires visitors with its historical significance and artistic beauty.

Monumento a Agustín Lara

Explore the Monumento a Agustín Lara, a serene tribute to Mexico's music legend amidst lush landscapes in vibrant Mexico City.

Unmissable attractions to see

Chapultepec Castle

Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Chapultepec Castle, a historical landmark and museum in Mexico City surrounded by lush gardens.

Museo Soumaya

Discover art and culture at Museo Soumaya in Mexico City, home to an extensive collection from Europe and Mexico, all set in a stunning architectural masterpiece.

Parque La Mexicana

Explore the lush landscapes and cultural vibrancy of Parque La Mexicana, a premier city park in Santa Fe, Mexico City.

Parque Lincoln

Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant art of Parque Lincoln, a serene urban park in the heart of Polanco, Mexico City.

Americas Park

Experience the tranquil beauty of Americas Park, a lush urban oasis in the heart of Mexico City's Polanco district, perfect for relaxation and recreation.

Altar a la Patria

Discover the Altar a la Patria, a monumental tribute to Mexico's young heroes nestled in the scenic Chapultepec Park.

Parque Gandhi

Explore the tranquil beauty of Parque Gandhi, a serene park in Chapultepec, perfect for relaxation and reflection amidst the vibrant Mexico City.

El Ojo de México

Experience the beauty and artistry of El Ojo de México, a stunning tourist attraction that blends nature with modern design in the heart of Mexico City.

Monumento a Simon Bolivar (Obelisco y Fuente)

Explore the Monument to Simón Bolívar in Mexico City – a stunning tribute to freedom surrounded by the lush beauty of Chapultepec Park.

Bosque de Chapultepec

Discover the vibrant beauty and cultural treasures of Bosque de Chapultepec, a sprawling urban oasis in the heart of Mexico City.

Essential places to dine

Pujol

Discover Pujol: A premier destination for innovative Mexican cuisine and an exceptional dining experience in Mexico City.

Parole | Restaurante Italiano en Polanco

Experience exquisite Italian cuisine in Polanco at Parole – where fine dining meets exceptional service.

Rosa Negra | restaurante latino en cdmx

Experience the vibrant flavors of Latin America at Rosa Negra in Polanco, Mexico City—where fine dining meets cultural richness.

Puerto Madero

Explore Puerto Madero: A sophisticated blend of Argentinian cuisine and vibrant nightlife on Mexico City's stunning waterfront.

Quintonil

Experience the art of modern Mexican cuisine at Quintonil in Polanco - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

La Única CDMX

Experience exquisite Mexican cuisine at La Única CDMX, where tradition meets innovation in an elegant setting.

Chapulín

Experience exquisite Mexican cuisine at Chapulín, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Polanco's vibrant dining scene.

Raíz

Experience the essence of fine dining with authentic Mexican flavors at Raíz in Polanco, Mexico City.

Taboo | El mejor restaurante en Polanco

Experience exquisite Mediterranean dining at Taboo in Polanco - where authentic flavors meet elegant ambiance.

Anatol

Experience the best of contemporary Mexican cuisine at Anatol in Polanco—where tradition meets innovation for an unforgettable dining experience.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Pasaje Polanco

Explore Pasaje Polanco, a vibrant shopping mall in Mexico City, featuring boutiques, cafes, and unique dining experiences in a charming atmosphere.

Galerías Polanco

Experience the essence of Mexico City at Galerías Polanco, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together in a vibrant atmosphere.

IKAL Store

Explore IKAL Store in Polanco, where fashion meets elegance with an exquisite selection of clothing, jewelry, and home goods.

Tienda MAP Polanco

Explore authentic Mexican handicrafts at Tienda MAP Polanco, a charming store showcasing the best of local artistry and culture.

Prada Mexico City Polanco Palacio de Hierro

Explore the luxurious world of Prada in Mexico City Polanco, where fashion, elegance, and unparalleled style await every visitor.

Serendipity

Explore Serendipity in Polanco: A treasure trove of handicrafts, unique jewelry, and delightful pet supplies in the heart of Mexico City.

Things!

Experience the charm of Things! Boutique in Polanco, where fashion meets lifestyle in an upscale shopping haven.

Chellterra

Discover unique artisanal gifts and souvenirs at Chellterra in Polanco, Mexico City – where local culture meets charming shopping.

Trueque Market

Explore the colorful and authentic Trueque Market in Polanco, where local crafts and delicious food come together in a vibrant cultural experience.

Hábito Boutique

Explore the chic and contemporary fashion at Hábito Boutique in Polanco, Mexico City – a stylish haven for discerning shoppers.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Cantina La 20 | Polanco

Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Cantina La 20 in Polanco, where authentic Mexican flavors meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of Mexico City.

Limantour Polanco

Discover Limantour Polanco, a stylish cocktail bar in Mexico City renowned for its innovative drinks and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Polanco.

Gin Gin Polanco

Discover Gin Gin Polanco, an upscale cocktail bar in Mexico City offering exquisite drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.

Jules Basement

Discover the hidden charm of Jules Basement, a speakeasy bar in Polanco serving exquisite craft cocktails in a stylish atmosphere.

Scotch

Discover the chic and lively Scotch Bar in Polanco, Mexico City – a cocktail haven where nightlife comes alive with every sip.

Living Room Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Living Room Bar in Polanco, where innovative cocktails and chic decor create the ultimate social atmosphere.

Dixon

Experience the elegance of Dixon, an upscale bar in Polanco, Mexico City, renowned for its innovative cocktails and vibrant nightlife ambiance.

Epicentro Gin&Tonic Bar

Discover the vibrant Epicentro Gin&Tonic Bar in Polanco for a unique gin experience with expertly crafted cocktails and lively atmosphere.

11:11 Polanco

Discover the vibrant nightlife at 11:11 Polanco, a premier piano bar and nightclub in Mexico City, offering live music and a lively atmosphere.

Bar LUX

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Mexico City at Bar LUX, a hidden bar gem offering innovative cocktails and an intimate atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Polanco

Discover Polanco with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vohr/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byehn. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tyehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vohr]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vohr]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llame a la policía!
  [yah-meh ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llame a un doctor!
  [yah-meh ah oon dohk-tohr]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido/a
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh/dah]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo/a
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh/dah]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
- I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy meer-ahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwahn-toh kweh-stah]
- That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh o-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
- Half past (10)Las diez y media
  [lahs d'yehs ee meh-dee-ah]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [says]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está un/el...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah oon/ehl]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwahl ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwahn-doh ehs ehl proh-ksy-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

History of Polanco

Polanco's history began in the late 19th century when it was primarily a rural area populated by small farms. The neighborhood's name is believed to derive from the Spanish term 'polanco', meaning a small pasture. As Mexico City expanded during the Porfirio Díaz era, Polanco transformed into an urban residential area, attracting affluent families and establishing its reputation as an upscale neighborhood.
By the early 1900s, Polanco became a fashionable area for the elite, marked by the construction of grand mansions and European-style architecture. The neighborhood's development was accelerated by the construction of the Avenida Presidente Masaryk, which became a major commercial artery, lined with luxury shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions. This period also saw the establishment of the Chapultepec Forest nearby, enhancing Polanco's appeal as a residential area.
After World War II, Polanco witnessed a cultural flourishing with the arrival of international businesses, artists, and intellectuals. The neighborhood became a hub for cultural exchanges, hosting galleries, theaters, and museums. Notable institutions such as the Museo Soumaya and the Museo Jumex were established, further solidifying Polanco's status as a cultural epicenter in Mexico City.
The late 20th century marked a period of rapid economic growth and urbanization in Polanco, characterized by the construction of high-rise buildings and luxury condominiums. The neighborhood attracted multinational corporations and became a significant center for business and commerce in Mexico City. This economic surge brought about a demographic shift, with an influx of professionals seeking residence in this prime location.
Today, Polanco is recognized as one of Mexico City's most prestigious neighborhoods, blending modernity with its rich historical roots. The area boasts an array of high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and cultural venues, reflecting its status as a cosmopolitan hub. Events such as the annual 'Polanco Fashion Night' showcase the neighborhood's commitment to innovation while honoring its historical significance within the broader context of Mexico City.

Polanco Essentials

Polanco is well-connected to various neighborhoods in Mexico City. The nearest metro stations are Polanco (Line 7) and Tacuba (Line 7), which provide easy access to other parts of the city. From the airport, you can take a taxi or an authorized ride-sharing service directly to Polanco, which typically takes about 30-50 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can use the Metrobus service, which connects to several major areas in the city, including Polanco.
Polanco is a walkable neighborhood with many attractions easily accessible on foot. The metro system is efficient, with Line 7 serving the area. Biking is also popular; you can rent bikes through the Ecobici program, which has stations throughout the city. For public transportation, the Metrobus has several routes passing through Polanco. Taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available and provide a convenient option for longer distances.
Polanco is generally considered safe for tourists, though standard precautions are advised. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, especially around the edges of Polanco. Areas outside of Polanco, such as parts of Iztapalapa and Tepito, are known for higher crime rates and should be approached with caution. Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings in crowded places.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. There are hospitals and pharmacies in Polanco, and many are equipped to handle tourist-related emergencies. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable yet stylish clothing, as Polanco is known for its upscale atmosphere. Don’t wear overly casual attire when dining in fine restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in religious spaces. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to those in need, but don’t engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly handshake; a light kiss on the cheek is common among acquaintances. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes at street vendors and restaurants. Don’t refuse food or drink offered, as it may be seen as impolite.
To experience Polanco like a local, visit the Lincoln Park for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Explore the local markets, particularly the Mercado de Polanco, for fresh produce and authentic Mexican snacks. Engage with locals in cafes and restaurants, where you can learn about hidden gems in the area. Don’t miss out on the cultural offerings, like the Museo Tamayo and the Soumaya Museum, which are not only architecturally striking but also offer a glimpse into Mexican art and culture.

Polanco: The Chic and Cultural Heart of Mexico City

Local tips in Polanco