How and Where to Experience Frida Kahlo’s Mexico City
Lauren is a Mexico City–based writer, editor, and translator from Yorkshire with bylines at CNN, BBC Travel, and Al Jazeera. She’s currently working on her first full-length literary translation in between harassing her cat, drinking smuggled Yorkshire Tea, and blogging about Latin American literature at leyendolatam.com.
Lauren is a Mexico City–based writer, editor, and translator from Yorkshire with bylines at CNN, BBC Travel, and Al Jazeera. She’s currently working on her first full-length literary translation in between harassing her cat, drinking smuggled Yorkshire Tea, and blogging about Latin American literature at leyendolatam.com.
Hi, I'm Lauren!Lauren is a Mexico City–based writer, editor, and translator from Yorkshire with bylines at CNN, BBC Travel, and Al Jazeera. She’s currently working on her first full-length literary translation in between harassing her cat, drinking smuggled Yorkshire Tea, and blogging about Latin American literature at leyendolatam.com.
Hi, I'm Lauren!Lauren is a Mexico City–based writer, editor, and translator from Yorkshire with bylines at CNN, BBC Travel, and Al Jazeera. She’s currently working on her first full-length literary translation in between harassing her cat, drinking smuggled Yorkshire Tea, and blogging about Latin American literature at leyendolatam.com.
One of Mexico’s best-known painters, traditional dress–wearers, and monobrow-sporters, Frida Kahlo was a near-lifelong resident of Mexico City, where you can explore her enduring legacy to this day. Here are a few of the places you shouldn’t miss on your next trip to the Mexican capital, as well as how to best see them.
Frida Kahlo Museum
Originally built by Frida’s father, what is now the Frida Kahlo Museum—better known as the Blue House—is a much-loved and popular tourist attraction in Coyoacán, the neighborhood most associated with the artist. Within, you’ll find several works of art by Kahlo, as well as a selection of her personal effects, including some of her striking Tehuana dresses.
How to visit:Prebook a ticket and avoid wasting time in the notoriously long lines.
Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera Studio-Museum
The other Blue House, also known as the Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera Studio-Museum, is a quieter alternative to the Coyoacán museum, ideal for returning Frida fans. In the Juan O’Gorman–designed buildings in San Ángel, learn about the two artists, soak up the organized chaos of Rivera’s workshop, and peek into Kahlo’s bedroom.
How to visit:Take a private tour with the personalized attention of a local guide.
Coyoacán market
Coyoacán Market was one of Kahlo’s favored haunts and remains a highlight of this popular but still rather residential neighborhood. Hunt through the stalls for local produce, freshly made juices, and snacks; snap photos of the colorful stalls; and make your way to the tostada stand that Kahlo was said to frequent.
How to visit: Let a local guide lead the way and show you the best spots on a private market and cooking class tour.
Modern Art Museum
On the fringes of Chapultepec Park, the vast urban green space that dominates central Mexico City, is the Modern Art Museum. Filled with 20th-century works by big-name Mexican artists such as José Clemente Orozco, Diego Rivera, Rufino Tamayo, and, of course, Kahlo, it’s a must for Frida fans and art lovers alike.
How to visit: Visit with ease on a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city.
Dolores Olmedo Museum
The grounds of the Dolores Olmedo Museum in the south of Mexico City are overrun with hairless Mexican dogs (xoloitzcuintles), while the interior of this somewhat off-the-beaten-path destination is a shrine to the creative output of Frida Kahlo. Stop by and enjoy a tranquil afternoon away from the chaos of the city center.
How to visit: Combine a visit to the museum with a canal boat ride in Xochimilco.
Coyoacán
Beyond the Blue House (Frida Kahlo Museum) and the markets, the wider Coyoacán neighborhood has plenty of sights, sounds, and excellent coffee to offer the casual visitor. Head out alone—this is the perfect neighborhood for a quiet stroll—and explore spots such as the Coyote Fountain and Plaza Hidalgo and quite literally follow in Frida’s footsteps, while learning about the history of the barrio.
How to visit: Explore with a local on a Coyoacán food and walking tour.
More ways to experience Frida Kahlo's Mexico City
Keep reading
