A Local’s Guide to Roma Norte for First-Time Visitors
So it’s your first time in Mexico City. You’ve heard about Roma Norte, but you’re not quite sure what to expect.
You’re probably wondering if it’s a good neighborhood to stay in, what there is to do, or if it’s safe.
Don’t worry, I’ve got you.
Exploring this neighborhood is what I live for and why I’ve called Roma Norte home for the past 5 years (and counting).
With its walkable, tree-lined streets, stunning mix of historic homes and modern apartment buildings, and a lineup of world-class restaurants and bars, La Roma has that perfect blend of culture, charm, and everyday life.
It’s a great home base for first-time visitors because of its central location, charm, and endless things to do in the area.
I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from how to get here and where to stay, to the prettiest streets, coolest cafes, and what to do so that you make the most of this incredible neighborhood without the FOMO.
Where is Roma Norte?

Roma Norte is located in the Cuauhtémoc area, the heart of Mexico City.
It’s a great neighborhood for first-time visitors to stay in because it’s safe, beautiful, full of shops, restaurants, and bars, and its central location makes it convenient for visiting Mexico City’s top sites.
It’s part of the larger Colonia Roma neighborhood, which is split into two sections: Roma Norte (north) and Roma Sur (south).
If you’re looking at a map, Roma Norte sits just west of the Historic Center and east (within walking distance) of the equally popular and coveted neighborhood, Condesa.
Northwest, you’ll find Chapultepec Park (Mexico City’s largest urban green space) just a quick Uber, bike ride, or a 20-30 minute walk away.
How Does Roma Norte Compare to Other Neighborhoods?

I’ve lived in four different CDMX neighborhoods over the years before settling in Roma Norte, so I know how each neighborhood has its own unique feel.
Roma Norte blends the charm of Condesa with more edge and energy.
It’s trendier and more upscale than its southern counterpart, Roma Sur, but not as fancy or modern as Polanco.
It’s far more relaxed and curated than the bustling Centro Histórico, but compared to Coyoacán, Roma Norte is more central and modern — better for nightlife and restaurant lovers, while Coyoacán offers a quieter, more traditional and family vibe.
If you want great restaurants, a relaxed and creative atmosphere, and easy access to everything, Roma Norte is a perfect home base.
How to Get Around Roma Norte

Walking: The Best Way to Explore
Hands down, the best way to experience Roma Norte is on foot.
The walkability of this neighborhood is what made me fall in love with the city in the first place and what led me to move here permanently just 6 months after my first visit.
The neighborhood is full of sidewalks, tree-lined streets, charming plazas, and sidewalk cafes — it’s built for strolling.
I love a slow morning in Roma Norte when Jorge, Colima, and I walk to get breakfast at La Ventanita or street tacos de barbacoa.
I easily walk over 10,000 steps on a normal day living here, so you’ll likely walk even more as a first-time visitor.
Taking an Uber around Roma Norte would just be a waste because the magic of the neighborhood happens when you wander the streets as you go from point A to B – every corner, building, and storefront is so freaking charming!
And many of the neighborhood’s best restaurants, bars, and boutiques are clustered together, making it easy to wander between them but also discover hidden gems.
If you want to know how to plan your days in Roma Norte to make the most of the neighborhood, be sure to check out my Roma itinerary post!
Biking: EcoBici Bike Share
I remember before I first came to Mexico City in 2017, a coworker of mine, an avid cyclist, flew to Mexico City with his road bike (cool right!?) and raved about how easy and enjoyable it was for him to explore the city by bike!
Luckily, you don’t need to pack your bike. We have EcoBici, a convenient and affordable bike-share system across the city that’s perfect for exploring and moving around neighborhoods. It’s my main form of transportation.
There’s an EcoBici bike station on the corner of our block. I use it to go everywhere. I like to use it in Roma Norte when we visit a friend who lives on the other side of the neighborhood or to bike home after a night out at the bars around Avenida Álvaro Obregón.
Dedicated bike lanes run throughout the city, and the streets without designated bike lanes are still safe. Just be a defensive driver because cars won’t give the right-of-way to bikers or pedestrians unless you make them.
If you plan on biking while in CDMX, I have another article that walks you through the easy EcoBici sign-up process step-by-step!
Uber, DiDi, and App-Based Taxis
Want to get somewhere quickly or need a ride late at night? Uber and DiDi are the most active and reliable in Roma Norte.
It’s not that Roma Norte becomes unsafe at night (I often walk home alone after dark), but best practice, like in any big city, is to err on the side of caution and take an Uber.
Wait times are usually short (5 minutes or less), and rides around the neighborhood typically cost under 70 MXN (~$4 USD).
App-based rides are safer and cheaper than hailing a street taxi. As long as I’ve lived here, not even my Mexican friends will hail a pink taxi off the street, and you shouldn’t either.
Where to Stay in Roma Norte

Hotels and Airbnbs each have a time in a place.
Neither are the super affordable accommodations of Roma Norte from 5-10 years ago, but Airbnbs tend to be cheaper than hotels here (especially the boutique ones), but sometimes at the cost of quality.
Around Álvaro Obregón
Avenida Álvaro Obregón is the heart of Roma Norte’s action, full of cafes, restaurants, bars, boutiques, and art galleries.
- Vibe: Lively, energetic, nightlife.
- Best For: Travelers who want to be in the middle of it all, with easy access to nightlife and lots of restaurants.
- Good to Know: If you stay right on Álvaro Obregón, expect more street noise than usual, especially on weekends, but you’ll be steps from the fun.
Near or Along Calle Colima
Colima Street is one of Roma Norte’s prettiest (and most expensive) areas, perfect if you love Michelin Star restaurants, shopping, and stylish cafes.
- Vibe: Chic, boutique, upscale.
- Best For: Design lovers, boutique hotel fans, and those who want gorgeous, manicured streetscapes right outside their door.
Around Cibeles Fountain

The Glorieta de Cibeles (Cibeles Fountain) area has slightly more casual vibes and acts almost like a crossroads between Roma Norte and Condesa, giving you easy access to both neighborhoods.
- Vibe: Central, modest, lively.
- Best For: Travelers who want to explore both Roma and Condesa without needing to Uber or bike much. It’s also a hair closer to Chapultepec Park, making the walk there just right.
Hotels vs. Airbnbs in Roma Norte
Hotels and Airbnbs each have a time in a place.
Neither are the super affordable accommodations of Roma Norte from 5-10 years ago, but Airbnbs tend to be cheaper than hotels here (especially the boutique ones), but sometimes at the cost of quality.
Boutique Hotels:
Roma Norte is famous for its stunning boutique hotels housed in renovated colonial mansions.
These hotels often feature gorgeous courtyards, curated interiors, and highly personalized service.
Expect amenities like rooftop terraces, in-house cafes, and artfully designed rooms, often with a price tag to match.
- Pros:
- Daily housekeeping and full hotel amenities (like breakfast, concierge, rooftop terraces).
- Beautiful, curated design — many feel like staying inside a living Pinterest board.
- Great for short stays (1–4 nights) or if you want to be pampered without worrying about logistics.
- Staff can help with local recommendations, reservations, and airport transfers, or make your stay more comfortable.
- Cons:
- Usually more expensive than Airbnbs, especially for larger rooms or suites.
- Less privacy — you’re sharing common spaces with other guests.
- No kitchens, if you like to cook instead of eating out for every meal.
- Usually more expensive than Airbnbs, especially for larger rooms or suites.
If you’re staying for less than 5 days or want a more “vacation mode” experience, go for a boutique hotel.
Airbnbs:
If you prefer more space, privacy, or a “live like a local” feel, Roma Norte has tons of stylish Airbnb options.
You’ll find everything from charming lofts in historic buildings to modern, sun-filled apartments.
Airbnbs are a great option if you’re planning a longer stay, want a kitchen, or need extra room for families or groups.
- Pros:
- More space for your money — perfect if you’re traveling as a group or staying longer.
- Access to full kitchens which is great for saving money on meals.
- Feel like a local — stay in real residential buildings and explore at your own pace.
- More space for your money — perfect if you’re traveling as a group or staying longer.
- Cons:
- No daily housekeeping (you’re responsible for tidying up during your stay).
- Some listings may have older infrastructure — think quirky plumbing, tiny bathrooms, no elevators, or no heating or A/C.
- Hosts vary — while many are fantastic, the level of service isn’t as guaranteed as a hotel.
- Some buildings can be noisy if they’re near bars, especially on weekends.
If you’re staying a week or more, or want more space and a more “local living” vibe, an Airbnb might be a better fit!
What to Do in Roma Norte
1. Stroll the Scenic Streets, Plazas, and Landmarks

If you do nothing else, just walk! Roma Norte is meant to be explored slowly and on foot.
My absolute favorite thing to do is wander Roma Norte’s streets with Jorge and Colima, in the morning or around sunset.
Best Streets to Walk:
- Calle Colima for stunning historic mansions, tree-lined streets, high-end restaurants, and boutiques.
- Álvaro Obregón for classic Roma vibes, people-watching, cafes, shops, and taquerías.
- Orizaba for beautiful architecture, lively cafes, and leafy sidewalks.
- Durango for a shady pedestrian pathway and easy access to Condesa.
Popular Plazas
- Plaza Río de Janeiro: A neighborhood favorite for dogs and their owners. Sit by the replica of Michelangelo’s David with a rollo de guayaba from Rosetta around the corner and watch the neighborhood come to life. Surrounded by historic mansions and casual cafes, this is a dreamy spot for coffee and dog-watching.
- Fuente de Cibeles: This leafy roundabout connects Roma and Condesa and is surrounded by popular restaurants like Contramar and my personal favorite breakfast spot, La Ventanita.
- Plaza Luis Cabrera: Smaller and less crowded, this plaza is lined with benches, fountains, and trees — great for a peaceful afternoon sit down after exploring Avenida Alvaro Obregon.
2. Visit Art Galleries & Museums

Roma Norte is packed with independent galleries, installations, and cultural centers.
Most galleries are free to visit and are within walking distance of each other — perfect for a DIY art crawl.
- Olivia Foundation: A Mexican couple’s private collection of emerging female artists housed in a beautifully renovated Porfiriato home. This was mine and Jorge’s favorite gallery we visited on our DIY Roma Norte art crawl.
- Galería OMR: A cornerstone of contemporary Mexican art. This gallery has been around for a long time and is the first gallery I visited back in 2017 when the owner of the hostel I was working at had a show there.
- Casa Museo Guillermo Tovar: A look inside a historic Roma Norte home that once belonged to famous Mexican historian and art collector, Guillermo Tovar de Teresa. It’s a quick 10-minute walk-through that’s worth checking out if you’re in that part of the neighborhood.
3. Try Your Hand at Ceramics
If you want a more hands-on cultural experience, take a ceramics class!
Roma is home to a few studios that offer space for ceramic painting, like Clayzie, or workshops and making your own pottery at LugarOso.
It’s a fun activity I like to do with my girlfriends, but if you’re traveling solo, it would be a fun way to make some art while meeting new people with similar interests!
4. Shop Local Boutiques & Weekend Bazaars
Shopping in Roma Norte isn’t about chain stores — it’s all about discovering one-of-a-kind pieces made by local artists and designers.
My good friend has her own clothing brand that she sells at these bazaars!
Supporting local designers is a way to take home something meaningful that you actually love.
- Local Boutiques: Browse fashion, art, and home decor at shops like 180° Shop, The Happening Store, Proyecto Rufina (I’m obsessed with the colors and styles of their tops), and Amor y Rosas.
- Weekend Bazaars: If you’re around on a Saturday or Sunday, check out pop-up artisan markets (especially around Plaza Río de Janeiro and Avendia Alvaro Obregon). You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to vintage or locally made clothes and cute home decor at Bunker Bazaar, Bazar Reseliente, and Contempo Bazar.
5. Take a Cooking Class or Food Tour

Roma Norte is packed with food experiences that go way beyond restaurants.
These are great chances to ask questions, understand the local culture, and eat really, really well.
Cooking Classes: Learn to make salsas, tamales, tacos, and tour the neighborhood food market with local chefs.
Food Tours: Join a small group walking or bike tour that stops at markets, street food stands, and hole-in-the-wall gems you wouldn’t find on your own.
Jorge and I went on a lovely tour with Sherpa Food Tours. Even though I’ve been living in Mexico City for over 7 years, all 5 stops on the tour were new-to-me restaurants.
Every bite was delicious, but the highlight for me was the great conversation we had with our guide and the other couple on the tour as we ate and drank our way around La Roma – well, that and the taco de barbacoa from the first stop. So good!
6. Go Out Dancing
From salsa clubs with a live band to DJs and nightclubs, Roma Norte has plenty of places to dance the night away.
- Salon San Luis: A beloved classic for salsa, cumbia, and banda lovers, and mine and my friends’ favorite, San Luis is old-school in the best way, with live music, a retro vibe, and a crowd that actually dances. Great for a more traditional and local night out.
- Patrick Miller (Fridays only): Super-crowded, nostalgic, and high-energy. Think dance battles, disco lights, and the best people-watching of your life. If you want to dance like nobody’s watching to hits from the 70s, 80s, 90s, and 00s, this nightclub is a blast. I’m dying to go to their 70’s disco night. If they’re playing ABBA or Kool and the Gang, I don’t care how crowded it is, I’m dancing!
- Mama Rumba: Live salsa music, packed dance floors, and a fun mix of locals and travelers. They offer salsa lessons for beginners before the dance floor opens for the night.
- ISM: A dance studio located just a few blocks north of Roma Norte, in Colonia Juarez. They offer salsa and bachata lessons for all levels and even host dance socials at bars on different nights of the week. I’ve gone to several group lessons here and always had a good time!
Want more ideas for what to do in Roma Norte? Check out my other article for a complete list of all my favorite things to do in Roma Norte!
Where to Eat & Drink in Roma Norte
Restaurants

For a Michelin Star Experience
- Rosetta: From the chef who brought us the famously popular bakery by the same name, Restaurant Rosetta is tucked inside a gorgeous old mansion on Colima. Rosetta is an icon for upscale Italian-Mexican fusion. It’s consistently listed among the world’s best restaurants, and the fresh pasta, flor de calabaza bread, and wine list are next level.
- Em: A newer but equally refined dining experience by chef Lucho Martínez, Em is Mexican fine dining with inspiration from Japanese cuisine. The omakase tasting menu blends tradition and innovation with seasonal Mexican ingredients.
Pro Tip: Book well in advance, like as soon as possible. These spots fill up weeks, if not months, in advance.
For Traditional Mexican
- Fonda Fina: One of my go-tos when family and friends want something authentically Mexican but not overly formal. Elevated comfort food in a stylish-but-unfussy space.
- Testal: Known for regional dishes from across Mexico, like cochinita pibil and mole poblano. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect if you want a mid-range lunch that’s typical Mexican cooking but I love it for breakfast too.
For Seafood Lovers
- Contramar: A Roma Norte icon and the most famous seafood spot in CDMX. Come for the tuna tostadas and the pescado a la talla, and come with a reservation– it’s always buzzing.
- La Tizona: A much more laid-back seafood option with incredible aguachile, ceviches, and Baja-style tacos. Great vibe, less pretentious, and perfect for a casual and quick meal. It’s one of our go-tos for lunch out on the weekend.
I have a designated post with even more picks — check out my Roma Norte Restaurants post here if you want the full list of my current favorite restaurants.
Tacos

Whether you’re craving street tacos or prefer a sit-down setting, Roma Norte has options.
- Castacán: This Yucatán-style taco joint serves up ridiculously good, like the best I’ve-ever-had-good, cochinita pibil — slow-roasted pork marinated in citrus and achiote, served on freshly made tortillas with pickled red onions.
- Street Tacos Gorditas Embarazadas: An old reliable breakfast spot of ours, this taco stand makes my favorite street taco – handmade tortillas, thinly sliced beef, and melty Oaxaca cheese topped with nopal (cactus) pico de gallo.
- Tacos los Alexis: A hole-in-the-wall taco spot that recently got Michelin Guide recognition. They have a simple menu of grilled meat tacos and a veggie option too, and are all bursting with juicy flavor.
For a full breakdown of where to get your taco fix, check out my Roma Norte Taco Guide here.
Coffee Shops

- Cardinal: A neighborhood staple and a long-time favorite of mine with a cozy vibe and seriously good coffee. Great for working, chatting, or just soaking in the Roma atmosphere with a flat white.
- Cumbé: Small, spunky, and known for some of the best espresso in the area. Baristas here are friendly, and the space is colorful and inviting.
- Cara de Taza: Charming and unpretentious with a rotating selection of beans, brewing styles, and funky-cool mugs made by local artists. You can even buy one to take back home.
Want more coffee? I’ve got a full breakdown of my favorite coffee shops in my Roma Norte Coffee Guide.
Bars

When the sun goes down, Roma Norte effortlessly turns into one of Mexico City’s best neighborhoods for a night out.
- La Botica: A dimly lit mezcalería that’s a casual spot to try different (affordable) mezcals with your friends.
- Licorería Limantour: Consistently ranked among the world’s best bars. Expect inventive cocktails, an elegant scene, and a wait unless you go before 8.
- Balmori Rooftop Bar: A plush, open-air space with a more upscale night-out vibe and solid cocktails and food.
Staying Safe in Roma Norte

Daytime
It’s safe and lively — perfect for walking, exploring, and enjoying the neighborhood. I walk around Roma Norte daily to go to the supermarket, walk my dog, go out to eat, or meet up with a friend at a coffee shop without thinking twice about it. I keep my valuables out of my pockets and in a purse, but that’s the extent of my “safety” measures.
Nighttime
Still safe, but stick to well-lit, busier streets like Álvaro Obregón if you’re walking in a group. Order an Uber or bike for peace of mind.
Solo Female Travelers
Roma Norte is popular with solo female travelers. I first came to Mexico City solo and volunteered in a hostel in Roma Norte for two months before moving here permanently. I’ve always felt safe. If you’re a solo female traveler and you’re hesitating for safety reasons, there’s no need. I would just stick to simple jewelry and leave anything flashy or overly expensive at home. Read my post on what you should wear in Mexico City if you want more info on how to dress . Be cautious, just like you would in any big city like NYC or Paris, and you’ll be fine.
Pickpockets
Petty theft can happen, so only bring your essentials out and leave the rest in the hotel room safe. Don’t keep your phone or wallet in your pockets. A cross-body purse or sling bag is your best bet, and don’t leave them hanging on the back of your seat at a restaurant. I’ve seen purses get stolen this way.
Taxis
Always use Uber, DiDi, or Beat — avoid hailing street cabs like the pink taxis.
How to Get to Roma Norte

From Mexico City International Airport (AICM)
Roma Norte is a 20–30 minute drive from the airport, depending on traffic.
The easiest way to get there is by Uber or DiDi, which are safe, reliable, and affordable in CDMX (rides typically cost around $150–250 MXN or $8-13 USD). When Jorge can’t pick me up, I always use Uber.
Door 5 is the official ride-share pick-up point. You’ll know you’re at the right spot once you step outside the airport and see “Door 5” on a big sign above you.
Even if you’re arriving late at night, I would still choose Uber as the best option. It’s safe and reliable, no matter the hour.
You can also use authorized airport taxis, but they tend to cost a little more. You pay at the booth inside the airport, and they assign you a taxi outside.
From Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA)
AIFA is much farther from the city center — expect about 60–90 minutes by car, or more depending on traffic.
Uber is not authorized for pick-ups at the AIFA airport. You would need to leave the airport and have the driver pick you up nearby, which I don’t recommend.
Authorized, pre-paid airport taxis are available, but rides can cost between $400–700 MXN.
There’s a bus service that connects AIFA to Roma Norte for about $140 MXN, which is a more affordable but still secure option.
From Centro Histórico
Centro is only a 15-20 minute car ride away, again depending on traffic.
Uber is the most straightforward option, but the Metrobus Line 1 (the big red buses) or the underground Metro are both good options if you want to give public transport a try. Google Maps will tell you exactly where to get on and off.
It’s also a nice (but long) walk along Avenida Paseo de la Reforma (aka Reforma) – my favorite way to get to Centro.
It would take about an hour to walk there from Roma, which is why I’d recommend biking the same route because you’ll still get to take in the sights, but it’ll only take 15 minutes instead.
You’ll be doing a lot of walking to explore Centro, so I’d probably go with Uber or Public transport to keep your legs fresh for exploring, but the bike ride isn’t tiring if you’re up for being a little more active.
From Chapultepec / Polanco
Coming from Chapultepec Park or Polanco? It’s about a 10–20 minute drive to Roma Norte.
If you’re visiting Chapultepec Park, so like the Anthropology Museum or the Chapultepec Castle, I’d recommend walking there or taking an Ecobici.
You could definitely take an Uber, but I think the walk is prettier, but it can be long.
Whenever I have to go to appointments in Polanco, I usually bike from my apartment in Roma Norte, but Uber is the easiest option unless Reforma is closed, like on most Sundays from 8am-2pm.
From Coyoacán
From Coyoacán, Roma Norte is about a 25–35 minute Uber ride, so definitely too far of a walk, and biking would be a bit much too.
There’s no direct Metro connection, so unless you’re feeling adventurous with multiple transfers, I recommend taking a car.
From Condesa
Condesa and Roma Norte are next-door neighbors — it’s an easy and beautiful walk! You probably won’t even notice where Condesa starts and Roma ends.
I definitely recommend walking or biking between these two neighborhoods – it’s gorgeous and nothing is too far.
I walk my dog to Parque Mexico in Condesa daily. It’s about a 10-minute walk from where we live in Roma Norte.
Biking is another great option because there are so many Ecobici stations, so you’ll never have to walk far to find a bike.
Public Transit: Metro and Metrobús Access
If you want to venture beyond Roma Norte, you’re well-connected by public transportation.
Metro: The nearest Metro stations are Insurgentes and Sevilla (Line 1). The Metro is cheap (5 MXN per ride), but it can get very crowded during rush hours.
Important Note: Line 1 (the pink line) has been under construction for over a year, but is scheduled to reopen mid 2025.
Metrobús: The red accordion buses are great for longer trips across the city and are more straightforward to use than the Metro. Line 1 runs right along Avenida Insurgentes, with stops at Álvaro Obregón, Sonora, and Durango in Roma Norte.
Conclusion
If you’re visiting Mexico City for the first time and wondering where to base yourself, Roma Norte really does have it all — walkable streets, world-class food, a thriving arts scene, and that perfect mix of local charm and traveler-friendly energy.
It’s safe, central, and packed with things to do, whether you’re here for a long weekend or a month-long stay.
👉 Want even more tips, updates, and hidden gems? Join my free Facebook group: Mexico City Things to Do. It’s where I share recommendations, real-time updates, and a place where you can ask me questions about Mexico City!
Read More About Roma Norte
- A Local’s Guide to Roma Norte for First-Time Visitors
- How to Spend a Day in Roma Norte (Hour-by-Hour Itinerary)
- 9 Best Restaurants in Roma Norte, Mexico City
- 6 Best Taco Spots in Roma Norte, Mexico City
- 9 Best Coffee Shops in Roma Norte, Mexico City
- 8 Museums & Art Galleries to Visit in Roma Norte
- 33 Best Things to Do in Roma Norte, Mexico City
