Mexico › Mexico City › Mexico City in November
Updated: April 12, 2026
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November is one of the best months to visit Mexico City, offering a mix of vibrant cultural festivals and the transition into the dry season. While many travelers come specifically for Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), the entire month provides a great balance of mild daytime temperatures and crisp, clear air. I have found that November offers some of the best photography conditions of the year, as the summer haze often clears to reveal the surrounding volcanoes.
The Verdict: Go in November if you want to see the city at its most festive and enjoy dry, sunny days for walking. The trade-off is that early November brings some of the highest crowds and hotel prices of the year. You must also be prepared for a wide temperature swing: it feels like spring in the afternoon but can feel like winter once the sun sets. This is a high-altitude city, and the dry November air makes the cold feel sharper than it does on the coast.
November At-A-Glance: Best and Worst
- Best for: Atmospheric Día de Muertos celebrations, photography with clear mountain views, outdoor dining, and exploring ruins like Teotihuacán in comfortable temperatures.
- Less ideal for: Travelers on a strict budget (especially early in the month), people who dislike dense crowds, and those sensitive to dry air or altitude.
When to Go: November by the Week
- Late October to November 2: This is the peak period for Día de Muertos. The atmosphere is electric, but the city is at its most crowded. Major parades and public altars (ofrendas) are the main draw. Book hotels at least six months in advance for this window.
- First Half of November (Post-Festival): This is the “sweet spot” for many. The crowds thin out, but the marigold decorations often remain for a few days. It is an excellent time for museum visits and securing restaurant reservations.
- Third Monday Holiday Weekend: Mexico observes Revolution Day on the third Monday of November. This is a popular long weekend for local travelers. Expect heavier traffic, busier public parks, and occasional civic events or parades.
- Late November: The nights become noticeably colder as December approaches. The city begins to transition into the Christmas season with early lights and markets appearing in neighborhoods like San Ángel.
Weather and Atmospheric Conditions
November sees the rainy season taper off significantly, making it one of the driest months. Average highs sit around 72°F (22°C), while evening lows can drop to 46°F (8°C). Rain is rare, but the air is very dry, which can affect your energy levels at 7,350 feet of altitude.
The Altitude and Sun: Because the air is thinner and typically clearer this month, the UV index remains high. I have seen many visitors get sunburned on 70-degree days because they underestimated the intensity of the mountain sun. Hydration is also more critical in November’s dry air than during the humid summer months.
Air Quality: While the lack of rain makes for beautiful blue skies, it also means pollutants can settle in the valley. On very still days, smog can become an issue. If you have respiratory sensitivities, check the local air quality index (AQI) daily.
November vs. Other Months
- November vs. October: November is typically drier and more settled. October still carries the risk of afternoon tropical downpours. November is busier early on but offers more consistent sunshine for outdoor sightseeing.
- November vs. December: December is colder, especially in the early mornings. December also brings the massive crowds for the Virgin of Guadalupe (Dec 12) and the holiday “posadas.” November offers a slightly more relaxed pace once the Day of the Dead concludes.
Cultural Focus: Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead)
Most major Día de Muertos events occur between October 31 and November 2. While the grand parade on Paseo de la Reforma is a major spectacle, the dates and routes change annually. Check official city tourism sites a few weeks before your arrival for the final schedule. For a more traditional experience, I recommend the neighborhood of Coyoacán for its public altars or the town of Mixquic on the city’s edge, though be prepared for extreme crowds and long travel times to the latter.
Where to Stay in November
- Roma and Condesa: The best all-around bases for first-time visitors. These neighborhoods are walkable, filled with parks, and offer the best concentration of cafes and restaurants.
- Centro Histórico: Best for being in the heart of the festival action, but it can be loud and difficult to navigate during the first week of November due to street closures.
- Polanco: A calmer, upscale alternative. It is further from the Day of the Dead crowds but close to the major museums in Chapultepec Park.
- Coyoacán: Atmospheric and traditional, though it feels like a “village within the city.” It is less central for nonstop sightseeing but perfect for those who want a slower pace.
Best Things to Do in November
- Teotihuacán: November offers excellent visibility for the pyramids. I recommend arriving at 8:00 AM when the gates open to beat the heat and the midday crowds. Current INAH hours are typically 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Museum of Anthropology: One of the world’s great museums. Crucial Planning Note: Most major museums in Mexico City, including this one and Chapultepec Castle, are closed on Mondays. Plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Xochimilco: The ancient canals are beautiful in the autumn light. It is a popular local activity during the Revolution Day holiday weekend, so try to visit on a weekday if possible.
- Seasonal Food: This is prime Pan de Muerto season. Look for this traditional sweet bread in local bakeries like Pastelería Ideal or specialized panaderías in Roma. Note: Chiles en Nogada is a late summer dish and is generally off the menu by November.
Common November Mistakes
- Underpacking for Cold: The most common error is dressing only for the daytime high. You need a real jacket or a heavy sweater for dinner and early morning tours.
- Waiting to Book: If your dates overlap with November 1 or 2, your first-choice hotel and top-tier restaurant reservations (like Pujol or Quintonil) should be booked 3 to 4 months in advance.
- Ignoring Traffic: Traffic in Mexico City is punishing, especially during holiday weekends. While Uber and Didi are convenient, the Metro or Metrobús can often be faster for crossing the city during rush hour.
- Overexertion: The combination of high altitude and dry air can lead to exhaustion. Give yourself a full day to acclimate before doing a heavy climbing day at the pyramids.
Packing List for November
- Versatile Layers: A light jacket for the day and a warmer coat for the evening.
- High-Quality Walking Shoes: The city’s sidewalks are notoriously uneven.
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen are mandatory due to the altitude.
- Moisturizer and Lip Balm: The dry season air is very hard on the skin and nasal passages.
- Purified Water Strategy: Drink only purified water. If you are cautious, use bottled water for brushing your teeth as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is November a good time for a first-time visit?
Yes, it is arguably the most “cinematic” time to see the city. Just be mindful of the peak holiday dates if you prefer a quieter experience.
Are the museums open on November 1 and 2?
Most major museums remain open, but they will still follow their standard Monday closure rule. If November 1 or 2 falls on a Monday, expect them to be closed.
What should I wear to Día de Muertos events?
Casual, comfortable clothing is fine for most public events. If you choose to have your face painted as a “Catrina,” it is widely accepted and common among both locals and tourists in the festival areas.
Is the air quality bad in November?
It varies. While you get more blue-sky days than in summer, the lack of rain can allow smog to build up. It is rarely a deal-breaker for travelers, but something to monitor if you have asthma.
Can I see the volcanoes in November?
Usually, yes. Early morning is the best time for visibility before the city’s daily haze develops. Look for a hotel with a rooftop terrace or visit a high-floor bar on Reforma.
