Xochimilco is a small district in Mexico City that is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a home for an incredible floating market and pre-historic canals of the Aztec era.
These canals are the reason why the place is often called the ‘Venice of Mexico‘.
All around the district, there are stunning flower displays, bright decorations, and beautiful floating gardens.
It is one of those places you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Mexico City and here are 7 reasons why.
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Visit a Less-Crowded Part of Mexico City
It is not a secret that Mexico City is really huge and most travelers give preference to historic districts with lots of museums.
At the same time, Xochimilco – it is a small district that is located in the southern part of the city.
It can be somehow rough but it can allow feeling the real vibe of Mexico City.
Also, it is a perfect place to stay away from beaten tourist routes and urban city center.
Explore the Colorful Waterways
Waterways in this area is a real splash of colors so its a great opportunity to enjoy some beautiful views.
Take a ride on one of the boats to see houses covered with flowers and tree curtains, amazing floating gardens, and bright small boats.
Just don’t forget to take your camera as you’ll for sure want to make a whole bunch of photos.
Listen to Mariachi
During your visit to Xochimilco, one thing you absolutely should do is to enjoy local Mariachi bands.
They perform almost everywhere around the district – in squares, near the canal-ways, and even on boards of boats.
If you want, you can order the song you like for a small price.
In fact, locals like holding parties on weekends so why not to visit one and enjoy some great music and a drink or two?
Taste Local Foods
In Xochimilco, there are several places where you can try some delicious Mexican street food.
To enjoy some banana-leaf-wrapped tamales, tlacoyos, and tacos, make sure to visit the main market of the district.
Visit the Aztec Islands
All over the canals of Xochimilco, there are small artificial islands that are also known as chinampas.
They were created by Aztecs who used them to grow various agricultural products.
In such a way, ancient people were able to farm some great products and had good harvest despite really hot weather.
Nowadays, local people use these islands to grow not only vegetable but also some flowers and ornamental plants so the scenery is really magnificent.
Buy Iris Flowers
Mercado de Flores is one of the most beautiful flower markets in the city.
It is located not far from the Xochitl market.
The stalls there are covered with a variety of colorful flowers that are grown in the area.
The flower locals love the most is Iris so consider buying some for yourself or for the person you love.
Visit the Creepy Island of Dolls
The area is full of colors and happiness but if you want to experience something new and unusual there is a place for you.
The Island of Dolls is known as one of the creepiest places not only in the city but actually in the whole world.
It is located between Xochimilco canals and according to the legend, a little girl that drowned was found there.
In her memory, locals started to hang dolls on island trees.
As years passed, people started to believe that the girl haunted this place and started to hang even more dolls.
After some time, the dolls deteriorated and now the island is covered with limbless or decapitated dolls that hang from trees all over the island.
In fact, the sight is absolutely terrifying so the place is for those who really have guts.
