Deportivo 18 de Marzo

What it is. A large public sports centre in the north of the city: football and basketball courts, swimming pools, a running track, outdoor gym equipment and green areas. It is the everyday facility of a densely populated district, and it gives its name to the metro station next door.

Who it suits. Anyone staying in the north who wants somewhere to run or swim without paying for a private club. This is neighbourhood infrastructure rather than a sight: long opening hours, low fees.

Getting there. Deportivo 18 de Marzo station —the interchange between metro Lines 3 and 6— comes out practically at the entrance, which makes it one of the easiest sports centres in the city to reach by public transport. From there, Line 6 reaches the Basilica of Guadalupe in a few minutes, so the two combine easily.

Before you go. Public pools usually require a swim cap and close for maintenance fairly often: confirm hours and requirements before travelling, and bring cash for the entry fee.