Polanco: A Comprehensive Guide to Mexico City's Upscale Gem

Polanco, often referred to as the "Beverly Hills of Mexico City," is a sophisticated and vibrant neighborhood renowned for its luxury shopping, world-class dining, rich cultural scene, and beautiful green spaces. This guide provides an in-depth look at what makes Polanco a must-visit destination in Mexico City (CDMX), catering to both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.

Why Polanco Stands Out

Polanco is distinguished by its seamless blend of luxury and culture. It offers an array of experiences, from high-end shopping and gourmet dining to art museums and tranquil parks. The neighborhood's cosmopolitan ambiance and well-maintained streets make it a pleasure to explore on foot. Polanco is not just a place to visit; it's a lifestyle experience that embodies the best of Mexico City.

Must-Visit Attractions

Polanco boasts a variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests. Here are some of the most notable:

1. Museo Soumaya

   Location: Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra 303, Granada, Miguel Hidalgo, 11520 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico.
   Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays.
   Admission: Free entry.
   Description: This museum, founded by Carlos Slim, houses an impressive collection of over 60,000 artworks, including pieces by Mexican and international artists. The building itself is an architectural marvel, with its distinctive silver, asymmetrical facade made of thousands of hexagonal aluminum tiles. The collection includes works by European masters like Rodin, Dalí, and Monet, as well as Mexican artists, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts.

2. Museo Jumex

   Location: Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra 303, Granada, Miguel Hidalgo, 11520 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico.
   Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays.
   Admission: Varies based on the current exhibition, generally around $50 MXN for adults and $25 MXN for students and seniors.
   Description: This contemporary art museum features over 2,500 works, including pieces by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol, Martin Kippenberger, and Damien Hirst. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions, ensuring there's always something new to see. It also includes a café and is often adjacent to a cultural center that hosts events.

3. Avenida Presidente Masaryk

   Description: Often compared to New York's Fifth Avenue or Paris's Champs-Élysées, Avenida Presidente Masaryk is Polanco's premier shopping street. It is lined with high-end boutiques, designer stores, and upscale cafes. Here, you'll find international brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel, as well as upscale Mexican boutiques. The street is also home to historic sites like Pasaje Polanco, a charming courtyard with small shops dating back to the 1930s. It's a great place for shopping, people-watching, and experiencing the luxurious side of Polanco.

4. Parque Lincoln

   Description: This beautiful urban park is a serene oasis in the heart of Polanco. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, jogging, or simply relaxing. The park features a lake, walking paths, playgrounds, and sculptures, making it ideal for families and individuals alike. It’s a great spot for picnics or unwinding amidst nature.

5. Plaza Uruguay

   Description: A small, wooded park in the middle of Polanco, Plaza Uruguay offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Inside the plaza, you’ll find a bronze statue of General José Artigas, adding a touch of history to the tranquil setting.

6. Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros

   Description: A multi-functional exhibition space designed by the renowned muralist David Alfaro Siqueiros. It features the Forum Universal and the largest mural Siqueiros ever painted, "La Marcha de la Humanidad." This is a must-visit for those interested in Mexican art and history.

7. Acuario Inbursa

   Description: One of the largest aquariums in Latin America, Acuario Inbursa offers diverse marine life exhibits, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish. It's an excellent family-friendly attraction with interactive displays and educational programs.

8. Paseo Presidente Reforma

   Description: A pedestrian-friendly avenue lined with shops, restaurants, and landmarks, Paseo Presidente Reforma is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Highlights include the iconic Angel of Independence and vibrant street art.

9. Templo de San Agustín

   Description: A beautiful baroque church worth visiting for its architecture and serene atmosphere.

Dining in Polanco

Polanco is a culinary paradise, offering a wide range of dining options from world-renowned fine dining establishments to casual eateries. Here are some highlights:

1. Pujol

   Description: Consistently ranked among the world's best restaurants, Pujol offers innovative Mexican cuisine under the guidance of Chef Enrique Olvera. It is a must-visit for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, featuring a diverse array of Mexican dishes, including Oaxacan, Yucatecan, and traditional specialties. Reservations are highly recommended.

2. Quintonil

   Description: Focused on using local and seasonal ingredients, Quintonil is also celebrated for its innovative Mexican dishes. It is another top-tier restaurant that provides a sophisticated dining experience.

3. Biko

   Description: A fusion of Mexican and Basque cuisine, Biko provides a unique and sophisticated dining experience.

4. El Turix

   Description: A hole-in-the-wall taqueria in Polanco famous for its cochinita pibil tacos and panuchos. It’s a great place to try authentic Yucatan-style slow-roasted pork.

5. El Farolito

   Description: A popular spot for traditional Mexican tacos, known for their delicious flavors and casual atmosphere.

6. Maison Belén

   Description: A charming French restaurant with a lovely interior and delicious pastries. It’s perfect for brunch, coffee, and pastries.

7. Paillard

   Description: A great place for brunch or a light meal, known for its fresh bread and excellent coffee.

8. El Bajío

   Description: A popular spot for traditional Mexican cuisine.

9. Eno

   Description: A casual dining option with a variety of dishes.

10. La Casa de las Tortas

    Description: Known for its delicious tortas (Mexican sandwiches).

11. Mercado Polanco

    Description: A gourmet market featuring a variety of food stalls offering everything from sushi to traditional Mexican snacks.

12. Blanco Colima

    Description: A high-end restaurant offering a sophisticated dining experience.

13. Nobu

    Description: A renowned Japanese restaurant with a location in Polanco.

Shopping in Polanco

Polanco is a shopper's paradise, offering a mix of luxury boutiques and upscale shopping centers:

1. Avenida Presidente Masaryk

   Description: As mentioned earlier, this is Polanco's premier shopping street, featuring high-end international brands and upscale Mexican boutiques.

2. Antara Fashion Hall

   Description: An upscale, open-air shopping mall with over 100 stores spanning three levels. It offers a unique blend of luxury retail, fine dining, and world-class entertainment. You can find international brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci, as well as local favorites like Carla Fernández and Pineda Covalin.

3. El Palacio de Hierro

   Description: A high-end department store offering a wide range of luxury goods.

Nightlife in Polanco

Polanco's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of stylish bars and energetic clubs:

1. Ticuhi

   Description: One of the favorite bars in Mexico City, located on a side street in Polanco. It offers high-quality mezcal and exciting music, making it an exclusive bar experience.

2. Bar Principal

   Description: A trendy spot where you can enjoy cocktails and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for a night out with friends.

3. Piano Bar at the Hotel Habita

   Description: Enjoy live music in a chic atmosphere with great drinks.

4. La No. 20

   Description: A lively cantina that offers a mix of traditional Mexican fare and great cocktails, often with a festive vibe.

5. La Caja de Pandora

   Description: Known for its creative cocktails and elegant atmosphere.

6. Limantour Polanco

   Description: A trendy bar offering innovative drinks and a lively ambiance.

7. Patrick Miller

   Description: A famous nightclub with dance music and a high-energy crowd.

Accommodation in Polanco

Polanco offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets:

• Luxury Hotels

  • Las Alcobas: A boutique hotel offering personalized service and elegant rooms.
  • JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City: Renowned for its luxurious amenities and prime location.

• Mid-Range Options

  • Hotel Habita: Stylish accommodations with modern amenities.
  • NH Collection Mexico City Polanco: Comfortable rooms with excellent service.

• Boutique Hotels

  • Hotel Palacio Sardo: A charming, historic hotel blending classic and contemporary styles.

Getting Around Polanco

Polanco is easily navigable, with several transportation options:

• Walking: Polanco is pedestrian-friendly, especially around Avenida Presidente Masaryk and Parque Lincoln.
• Metro: The nearest metro stations are Auditorio (Line 7) and Polanco (Line 7).
• BRT (Metrobús): Multiple Metrobús lines (e.g., Line 7) pass through Polanco.
• Taxi/Rideshare: Widely available throughout the city. Services like Uber, DiDi, and Cabify operate in Polanco.
• Bicycles: Bike-sharing services like Ecobici have stations throughout Polanco for convenient short trips.

Safety and Tips

Polanco is generally considered one of the safest neighborhoods in CDMX, but it's always wise to remain aware of your surroundings:

• Keep Valuables Secure: Like any major city, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Stay in Well-Lit Areas: Explore Polanco's main streets and popular spots, especially at night.
• Use Trusted Transportation: Opt for official taxis or reliable rideshare apps for safe travel.
• Restaurant Reservations: Make restaurant reservations in advance, especially for popular spots.
• Sunday Closures: Many businesses close on Sundays.
• Dress Smart-Casual: Polanco is an upscale neighborhood, so dressing smart-casual is recommended.
• Language: Spanish is helpful, but English is widely spoken in this area.
• Cost: Polanco is more expensive than other CDMX neighborhoods.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Polanco are during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, the weather is generally mild year-round.

Nearby Areas

Polanco is conveniently located near other popular neighborhoods, including:

• Chapultepec
• Condesa
• Roma Norte
• Lomas de Chapultepec

Local Events and Festivals

Polanco hosts numerous events throughout the year, including:

• Festival del Centro Histórico: Celebrates Mexico City's heritage with exhibitions, performances, and more.
• Gastronomy Week: Featuring special menus and events at top restaurants in Polanco and beyond.
• Art Exhibitions: Regular displays at Museo Soumaya and other local galleries showcase both contemporary and traditional art.

Useful Contacts

• Emergency Services: Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
• Tourist Information Center: Available at major transport hubs and popular tourist spots.
• Nearest Hospital: Hospital Ángeles Polanco, Av. Presidente Masaryk 404, Polanco, Mexico City.

Polanco offers a unique blend of culture, gastronomy, and luxury, making it one of CDMX's most prestigious areas. Whether you're indulging in fine dining, exploring art museums, or shopping at luxury boutiques, Polanco provides a memorable and enriching experience. Enjoy your time in this upscale neighborhood!