Looking for free things to do? Worry no more, we’re here to give you the best free activities in Mexico City. Popular attractions are definitely included!

1. Chapultepec Forest (Bosque de Chapultepec)

Also called the Bosque de Chapultepec, it is the largest and most popular park in Mexico City. It was once the temporary home of the Aztec empire after its citizens migrated to modern-day Mexico City in the 13th century. Presidential residence, the former presidential palace, several museums, many large lakes, and a zoo are located inside this park. Highly recommended among travelers and writers is the park’s Museo Nacional de Antropología (or National Museum of Anthropology), which showcases Mexico’s pre-Hispanic peoples.

2. Zocalo (Plaza de la Constitucion)

Plaza de la Constitución is the main public square and one of the most recognizable places in Mexico City. It has a giant Mexican flag at its center and has been the centerpiece of public gatherings since the days of the Aztecs. The place also hosts annual, widely attended religious events during Holy Week and for Corpus Christi. Several historic buildings like the city’s national cathedral, the National Palace, and federal buildings also border the square.

Catch the Mexican soldiers march out into the square at sunset to take down the flag, offering a great photo opportunity.

3. Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana)

Mexico’s national cathedral — the vaulting, austere, ornate church on the Zócalo’s north end — was once the site of an ancient Aztec precinct, so it has housed the city’s spiritual core for centuries. The cathedral was built between 1573 and 1813 after the Spanish conquest of Tenochtitlán and is considered one of Mexico City’s many must-see attractions.

Highlights of the cathedral include five naves and 14 chapels, a painting by famed Spanish artist Bartolomé Esteban Murillo and underground catacombs. The cathedral is open daily and admission is free.

4. Central University City Campus

The Central University City Campus of the National University of Mexico includes 40 academic institutions, the Mexican Olympic stadium, a Mexican cultural center, a nature preserve and the city’s Central Library. The entire campus is now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We recommend you check out the work of famous painter David Alfaro Siqueiros at the Rectorate Tower or the work of Juan O’Gorman at the Central Library.

5. Palacio de Bellas Artes

ThePalacio de Bellas Artes(Palace of Fine Arts) is considered the cultural center of Mexico City, so it’s definitely a must-visit. The palace prominently showcases the Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. In addition to its fancy architecture, the building often hosts cultural events in the national theatre, including music, dance, theatre, opera and literary performances. The palace also features several famous Mexican murals like the work of the famous Mexican muralist Rufino Tamayo. On the top floor you’ll find the National Museum of Architecture, which showcases the work and lives of famous Mexican architects.

The palace is open Tuesday through Sunday.

6. National Palace (Palacio Nacional)

The Palacio Nacional holds the federal executive branch of the Mexican government and sits along Mexico City’s main public square, as El Zócalo. The palace contains several gardens, murals and fountains. Its highlights are the Diego Rivera murals painted in panoramic style across the palace’s walls, murals that depict the stages of Mexican history, from pre-Columbian days to the current age.

Admission is free. Be sure to bring your passport or other identification to gain admittance. The palace is open every day but Monday.

7. El Angel de la Independencia

El Ángel de la Independencia is column monument topped by a bronze depiction of the Greek goddess Victory, one of the most beloved symbols of the city. This was originally built to commemorate Mexico’s war with Spain for independence. Now, the structure has also evolved into a mausoleum for war heroes.

In recent years, El Ángel has become a favorite gathering place for sporting-event and political rallies, and some engaged couples consider it good luck to stop by here before getting married (as a sign of your new independence from your parents). And the best part – it’s free to explore!