Best Photo Walks in CDMX
- Rodrigo Hernandez
- Dec 19, 2025
- 3 min read
Mexico City, or CDMX, offers a rich canvas for photographers. Its streets blend history, culture, and vibrant everyday life, making it a perfect place for photo walks. If you love capturing urban scenes, architecture, and local moments, exploring CDMX on foot will reward you with countless photo opportunities. I’ve gathered some of the best photo walks in CDMX that will help you discover unique spots and improve your photography skills.
Historic Center Walk
Starting in the heart of CDMX, the Historic Center is a must for photographers. The area is packed with colonial buildings, grand plazas, and street vendors that create a lively atmosphere. Begin your walk at the Zócalo, the main square, where you can capture the vast open space framed by the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. The intricate details of the architecture and the contrast between old and new make for striking photos.
As you wander through the narrow streets, look for colorful murals and street art that tell stories of the city’s past and present. Don’t miss Calle Madero, a pedestrian street filled with shops and cafes, perfect for candid shots of locals and tourists alike.
Tips for this walk:
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and get soft light.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the buildings.
Look for reflections in puddles or windows for creative compositions.
Coyoacán Neighborhood
Coyoacán offers a completely different vibe from the Historic Center. This bohemian neighborhood is famous for its cobblestone streets, colonial houses, and vibrant plazas. It’s a great place to capture everyday life, from street musicians to colorful markets.
Start at the Plaza Hidalgo and Jardín Centenario, where locals gather to relax and socialize. The nearby Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul) is also a popular spot, with its bright blue walls and lush garden providing excellent photo subjects.
What to focus on:
Close-up shots of artisan stalls and handmade crafts.
Eye-level views of street performers and café scenes.
Architectural details like wrought-iron balconies and wooden doors.
Roma and Condesa Districts
For those who enjoy urban photography with a modern twist, Roma and Condesa are ideal. These neighborhoods combine Art Deco buildings, trendy cafes, and leafy parks. The streets are lined with trees, creating beautiful light and shadow patterns throughout the day.
Walk along Avenida Álvaro Obregón in Roma to find colorful murals and street art. In Condesa, Parque México and Parque España offer green spaces where you can photograph locals jogging, walking dogs, or relaxing.
Photography pointers:
Capture the contrast between old architecture and modern street art.
Use natural light filtering through trees for soft portraits.
Look for symmetry in building facades and park paths.
Xochimilco Canals
For a more colorful and lively photo walk, head to Xochimilco. This area is famous for its canals and trajineras (colorful boats). The vibrant colors of the boats, floating gardens, and local vendors create a festive atmosphere perfect for photography.
Take a boat ride along the canals to capture reflections in the water and candid moments of families and musicians on the trajineras. Early morning or late afternoon light works best here to avoid harsh shadows.
What to watch for:
Wide shots of the canals with boats and surrounding greenery.
Close-ups of flowers and decorations on the trajineras.
Portraits of boat operators and vendors.
Tips for a Successful Photo Walk in CDMX
Plan your route: Some neighborhoods are large, so focus on one area per walk.
Stay safe: Keep your gear secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Use public transport: Metro and buses can get you close to your starting points.
Respect locals: Always ask permission before photographing people up close.
Charge your batteries: Bring extra memory cards and batteries for long walks.
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