Cantinas -Traditional Mexican Bars of the Historic Center

If you’re considering a tour that takes you through some of Mexico City’s most iconic and historic cantinas, this guided experience might catch your eye. It offers a chance to peek behind the scenes of local drinking culture, explore well-loved spots, and enjoy some stories from a knowledgeable guide—all in about three hours.

What we like about this tour is how it blends cultural insight with a laid-back vibe, plus the chance for a fun, social evening. You’ll visit places like Gallo de Oro, Salon Spain, and Mancera Hall—each with their own unique character and history—and finish the night at El Tenampa, a beloved restaurant in Plaza Garibaldi.

However, there are some points to keep in mind. The tour is relatively short, with some reviews pointing out that traffic can eat into the time spent at each cantina. Also, the experience is more about enjoying the atmosphere and learning stories than indulging in unlimited drinks. This tour is best suited for those curious about local culture, who enjoy a relaxed pace, and don’t mind paying extra for drinks on their own.

Who should consider this experience?

It’s perfect for travelers wanting a quick, authentic taste of Mexico City’s bar scene with a cultural twist. If you’re interested in stories behind these historic bars and enjoy guided tours that focus on local flavor rather than just sightseeing, this could be a good fit. It’s also a nice alternative to more touristy bar-hopping, giving you a chance to see some hidden gems that locals love.

Key Points

• Cultural insight: You’ll learn the stories behind Mexico City’s historic cantinas from a local guide.
• Authentic spots: Visit well-loved, longstanding bars that many first-time visitors might miss.
• Tequila tasting: While alcohol isn’t included, opportunities to taste various tequilas are part of the experience.
• Short and sweet: The tour lasts about three hours, making it a manageable evening activity.
• Transport included: Round-trip transportation from the meeting point is covered, easing logistics.
• Mixed reviews: Some travelers found it could be longer, and traffic impacted the experience.

Starting Point and First Stop at Plaza Garibaldi

The tour kicks off at 6:00 pm at Av. P.º de la Reforma 222. From there, you’ll board transportation that takes you to Plaza Garibaldi, home to the famous El Tenampa cantina. This spot, founded in 1925, is often called the crown jewel of Mexican cantinas. It’s a lively place where mariachi bands regularly perform, filling the air with music that instantly transports you to traditional Mexico.

We loved the way this first stop sets the tone—an energetic, colorful introduction to Mexico’s musical and bar culture. The atmosphere here is lively but not overwhelming, making it an excellent place to kick off your evening.

Exploring Mexico City’s Historic Center

Next, your guide will take you to two iconic cantinas in the heart of the city’s historic district: Cantina La Mascota and Cantina La Reforma. Both have been around since 1925 and are cherished by locals. These spots offer a cozy, inviting atmosphere filled with flavorful drinks and lively music.

According to one review, La Mascota has been a part of the city’s fabric for over 93 years, and stepping inside gives you a real sense of tradition. La Reforma is described as a timeless gem that welcomes both locals and visitors alike. You might find that these bars, while historic, can sometimes be crowded, and service might be slow if they’re busy—something to keep in mind from the review mentioning delays due to only one server attending to many guests.

Learning and Tasting

Throughout the tour, your guide provides live commentary about each location’s history and cultural significance. This adds depth to what might otherwise be just a night out. While the tour doesn’t include drinks, you’ll have opportunities to purchase tequilas and other beverages at each stop. Reviews highlight that the guide’s storytelling is engaging and that they’re very knowledgeable, which enhances the experience.

One guest mentioned that the guide made the trip enjoyable and informative, helping to create a friendly, social atmosphere. Knowing the stories behind these places gives you a new appreciation for the local drinking culture.

Final Stop at El Tenampa

The tour concludes at El Tenampa, a restaurant in Plaza Garibaldi known for its vibrant mariachi performances. This is a perfect place to soak in more live music and enjoy some authentic Mexican food if you wish. The experience here is a great way to round out the evening, especially if you want to linger with a final drink or meal.

What Travelers Love

Many appreciate the knowledgeable guides who bring the stories of these historic bars to life. The combination of cultural insight and casual bar visits makes it more than just a bar crawl—it’s an immersive cultural experience. Several reviews mention that reservations at the cantinas are arranged ahead of time, ensuring smooth service and a feeling of being well cared for during the tour.

The cost of $30 per person, including transportation and guided commentary, offers reasonable value—especially considering the authentic nature of the stops and the insider knowledge you gain.

Areas for Improvement

Some travelers wish the tour lasted longer. As one review pointed out, “the tour should last more time, as too much time is lost in traffic,” which cuts into the time actually spent inside the bars. This suggests that traffic management is a factor outside the tour operator’s control, but it’s worth considering if you’re looking for a more in-depth experience.

Another potential drawback is the service at certain bars, which can be slow or overwhelmed, particularly if they’re busy. Since alcohol isn’t included, you’ll need to be prepared to purchase drinks on your own, which can add to the overall cost.

Practicalities and Logistics

The tour operates with a maximum of 35 travelers, so it’s a relatively intimate group. It’s scheduled at 6:00 pm, making it suitable for those who prefer evening activities. The meeting point is accessible by public transportation, which is a plus.

You should be aware that the minimum age to participate is 18, as you’ll be sampling tequila and other spirits. Since it’s a guided experience, you can expect to be in a group setting—something to consider if you prefer more private experiences.

This experience suits travelers who are interested in local culture and stories behind Mexico City’s bartending landmarks. It’s ideal if you enjoy a relaxed pace, with a focus on understanding the history and significance of these iconic bars, rather than just drinking. If you’re a foodie or music lover, you’ll appreciate the lively atmosphere at El Tenampa.

However, if you’re expecting a longer, more immersive tasting tour or plan to indulge heavily in drinks, this might fall short. Also, if you’re sensitive to traffic or prefer a more private or customizable experience, you may want to explore other options.

For a modest price, this tour offers a unique peek into the heart of Mexico City’s bar culture, told through stories and visits to some of the most historic cantinas. The knowledgeable guides are a standout, making the experience engaging and informative. It’s a nice way to combine history, local flavor, and lively music all in one evening.

If you’re curious about Mexico’s traditional drinking spots but aren’t looking for a wild night of nonstop drinking, this tour strikes a good balance. It’s best suited for casual explorers who want an authentic cultural experience without too much fuss or complexity.

Travelers looking for a quick, authentic, and well-guided trip through Mexico City’s famed cantinas will find this experience worthwhile—just keep expectations in check regarding timing and service at the bars.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from the meeting point is included, which helps make the evening more relaxed and convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 6:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included. You can purchase tequilas and other beverages at each bar if you wish.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations less than 24 hours beforehand are not refunded.

What are the main sights visited?
You’ll visit Plaza Garibaldi, Cantina El Tenampa, Cantina La Mascota, and Cantina La Reforma, all known for their historical significance.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Since the minimum age is 18 due to alcohol consumption, it’s not suitable for children or minors.

What should I expect at the cantinas?
Expect lively, historic bars with flavorful drinks, friendly atmosphere, and stories about their history and significance, with some music and local flavor.