Timeline
17:03
Grab a sweet treat or a quick bite at the Mercado de la Ciudadela. It is a clean, well-lit flea market just three minutes from the Centro de la Imagen entrance. The vendors sell traditional handicrafts and snacks. Arrive early to beat the late-afternoon rush and find a seat.
17:43
Walk east from the market to the Centro de la Imagen. Enter through the gate on Calle Balderas. Browse the rotating photography exhibits. The space is quiet and offers a perfect contrast to the street outside. Check if there is a special exhibition on Mexican photographers to tie into the evening's theme.
18:13
Walk west from the museum toward the Monumento a la Independencia. The walk takes about thirty-two minutes along the wide avenues. Arrive at the base of the Angel of Independence just as the sun dips below the horizon. The golden light hits the column from the west, casting long shadows across the roundabout. Stand back to take in the full height of the monument against the twilight sky.
18:38
Head to the Handshake Speakeasy, located just six minutes away from the monument. This is one of the world's best bars, hidden behind a discreet door. The interior feels like a step back into the 1900s. Order a cocktail and enjoy the craft and atmosphere as the city lights begin to twinkle above you.
Local tip
The walk from the Centro de la Imagen to the monument is long. If you prefer to save your energy for the drink, take a taxi or ride-share from the museum to the monument. The sunset direction is WSW, so the view of the Angel is best when facing west.
Check before you go
- The Mercado de la Ciudadela closes at 19:00 on weekdays and 18:00 on Sundays. Ensure your visit fits within these hours.
- The Handshake Speakeasy opens at 18:00. Arriving just before sunset ensures you get a table.
- The Centro de la Imagen is closed on Mondays.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Mexico City (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).