Should You Do a Cantina Tour in Mexico City?

A cantina tour in Mexico City is basically a guided bar crawl through the Historic Center with a local who knows the old spots. You’ll hit three or four classic cantinas, drink shots of tequila or mezcal, eat botanas (free or cheap snacks that range from decent to surprisingly good), and hear stories about the places. Expect loud conversations, jukebox music, locals of all ages, and a mix of slightly touristy but still very Mexican energy. It’s fun if you like drinking in character-filled bars and don’t mind a bit of chaos. It’s less fun if you want quiet craft cocktails or a calm night.

Best time is October through March when the weather is pleasant for walking between bars. Avoid July–September if you hate humidity and afternoon rain. Expect to pay around $45–75 per person for a small-group tour that includes several drinks, some food, and the guide. Private tours run higher.

Tip: Pick the tour that visits the old-school, no-frills cantinas with wood paneling and history; skip anything that sounds too “elegant” or revolutionary-themed — those tend to be more show than substance. Wear comfortable shoes, eat something before you start, and pace yourself. The pours are not small.