90 top experiences · A city open for the enjoyment of any budget.                                                                                                             

What this section covers. Mexico City on any budget — which, for a visitor from Europe or the United States, means a great deal more than it sounds.

What costs nothing. The Zócalo, the cathedral, Rivera's murals in the Palacio Nacional, the Bosque de Chapultepec and its free zoo, the Museo Soumaya and the Museo Jumex in Polanco, Ciudad Universitaria with its World Heritage campus and the Espacio Escultórico, the Alameda Central, and the Sunday paseo on a car-free Paseo de la Reforma with open-air exercise classes.

What costs almost nothing. The Metro, at one of the lowest flat fares in the world, with transfers included. Museums, at a few tens of pesos — and free on Sundays for residents. The Cablebus, which gives the best views in the city for the price of a transport ticket. Lucha libre at the Arena México. And comida corrida in a market fonda: soup, a main course and agua fresca for roughly the price of a coffee in the Condesa.

Where the money actually goes. Taxis, bottled water, entry to the few private attractions, and restaurants in Polanco and the Roma. Everything else is cheap.

Practical notes. Buy a Movilidad Integrada card on day one. Carry cash in small denominations for markets and street food. And plan Sunday carefully: free entry means crowds.