From Chile to Guanajuato: Why Mexico City Was the Perfect Stop for Nomads Like Us
As American expat nomads, we often find ourselves transiting through vibrant cities like Mexico City. Initially, our plan was just a quick layover on our way from Chile to Guanajuato, but we’ve learned that transit stops can be opportunities in disguise. So, we decided to extend our stay to explore this incredible city – if we could find affordable accommodations conveniently located – and it turned out to be the perfect stop for budget-conscious travelers like us.
Why Mexico City Worked for Us
1. A Budget-Friendly Gateway
Mexico City is often seen as expensive compared to other parts of Mexico, but for us, it was surprisingly affordable:
- Accommodation: We found a cozy spot in Centro Histórico, literally next to Zócalo and all the major sites. At $108 per night (including breakfast and taxes), it was more than we usually spend, but the location made it worth it. If you’re on a tighter budget, hostels and short-term rentals can be even cheaper.
- Food: Street food here is next-level. Tacos al pastor, tamales, fresh juices—we ate ridiculously well for just a few dollars per meal.
- Walking: Because of our proximity to the sites we wanted to see we were able to explore neighborhoods on foot to discover hidden gems and save money. The walkability is a major plus in Mexico City there was usually a convenience store and services within just a few hundred meters of where you are staying.
For nomads balancing cost and convenience, Mexico City delivers.
Where to stay in Mexico City?
This is the place we stayed in Mexico City – conveniently located, clean, comfortable, and the restaurant downstairs was also a great value!
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2. Free and Low-Cost Attractions
Even if you’re on a tight budget, there’s a ton to see and do:
- Centro Histórico: Staying near Zócalo meant walking through history every day—Templo Mayor, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Palacio de Bellas Artes—without hefty entrance fees.
- Markets: Mercado de San Juan, La Merced, and Mercado de Coyoacán gave us a glimpse of daily life while offering cheap eats and fun people-watching.
- Museums: Many museums are free or have low-cost entry. The city is a dream for art and history lovers.
- Street Life: Some of the best experiences don’t cost a thing—wandering through plazas, watching street performers, or just soaking up the city’s energy.
For nomads like us, who crave cultural depth over tourist traps, Mexico City was a win.
3. A Strategic Stop Between Destinations
Logistically, Mexico City made perfect sense:
- Flight Connections: Direct flights from Santiago got us here easily, and moving on to Guanajuato by bus or domestic flight was cheap and simple.
- Visa Rules: As Americans, we get up to six months visa-free in Mexico—no paperwork, no stress. (Not that we’re staying that long, but it’s nice to have the option.)
- Time to Recharge: After an eight-hour flight, spending a couple of days here before a five-hour bus ride to Guanajuato gave us time to recover.
4. Navigating Nomad Life Responsibly
As nomads, we’re aware of the impact our presence can have on local communities. In Mexico City, we tried to be mindful:
- Staying Local: We chose accommodations run by locals rather than large international chains.
- Supporting Small Businesses: From eating at family-owned taquerías to shopping at local artisan markets, we prioritized spending our money in businesses that directly benefit residents.
5. The Unexpected Charm of Mexico City
What surprised us most about Mexico City was how it felt both grand and intimate at the same time:
- Imagine New York City but with the weather of Los Angeles, and happier people than in either.
- Yes, it’s a sprawling metropolis offered endless things to do, yet small moments—like sipping coffee in a quiet plaza or chatting with vendors at a market—made it feel personal and approachable.
- Despite being just a stop on our journey, Mexico City left its mark on us.
Our Budget Breakdown For Our Stay in Mexico City
Here’s what we spent (for two people):
- Accommodation: $108 per night (including the breakfast buffet and all taxes and fees)
- Food: $45 per day for meals and snacks.
- Transportation: $18 for the ride from the airport to our hotel.
- Attractions: We paid $190 for a private tour to the pyramids but many museums and attractions in Mexico City are free or low-cost.
Where to Stay in Mexico City
Mexico City is huge! If you’re like us and have just a few days to spend in the city you don’t want to waste time commuting to and from your hotel just to save a few bucks. That’s why we chose this hotel. It’s within walking distance to the major sites, it was extremely comfortable, and breakfast was included.
Video Diaries From Mexico City: Because Some Stories Need Motion:
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Final Thoughts
For nomads like us our visit to Mexico City was more than just a stopover—it was a reminder that sometimes it’s worth staying a few extra days to experience the history and culture. Mexico City’s affordability, cultural richness, and strategic location made it the perfect pause between Chile and Guanajuato.
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Looking for fun things to do in Mexico City?
Check out our blog post about our day trip to the pyramids!
