Why Stay in Polanco, Mexico City: History, What to Do & Where to Stay

For many, Polanco is the best-located neighborhood in Mexico City: elegant, leafy and just steps from Chapultepec Forest. Here embassies, world-class museums, the country's most famous luxury avenue and some of Latin America's best restaurants all live side by side. We'll walk you through its history, what to do, where to eat, how to get around and why it's an ideal area to stay in Mexico City.

History: from Hacienda de los Morales to the most elegant neighborhood

Back in the 1930s, the land Polanco occupies today belonged to the Hacienda de los Morales. The neighborhood grew around what is now Parque Lincoln and drew families looking to leave the historic center, among them Jewish, Spanish, Lebanese and German immigrant communities that left their mark on the area's food, commerce and architecture. The old hacienda house survives today as one of the city's most iconic restaurants, surrounded by gardens.

Location and getting around

Many consider Polanco the best-located neighborhood in the capital. Its position among central areas like Roma, Condesa and San Miguel Chapultepec —and its proximity to the residential Lomas de Chapultepec— gives it an unbeatable location. Being next to Chapultepec Forest, the city's main green lung, only adds to its appeal.

Getting around is easy: the Polanco station on Metro Line 7 and several routes connect the neighborhood with the rest of the city, and Mexico City International Airport (AICM) is about 30-40 minutes away by car depending on traffic. On top of that, many of its attractions are within walking distance of each other, something rare in a metropolis like Mexico City.

What to do in Polanco

Polanco packs in a cultural offering that's hard to match:

• Museo Soumaya and Museo Jumex, at Plaza Carso: from European art by Rodin to the finest contemporary art, just steps apart. The Soumaya's silvery building is already a city icon.
• Avenida Presidente Masaryk, Mexico's most exclusive avenue, with luxury boutiques, cafés and terraces to see and be seen.
• Parque Lincoln, the neighborhood's green heart, with its flower clock, reflecting pool, aviary and open-air stages.
• Acuario Inbursa, the city's largest aquarium and a perfect family plan.
• Antara Fashion Hall, an open-air shopping mall with stores, a cinema and restaurants.

Where to eat in Polanco

It's one of the country's top dining destinations. The range runs from the classic Hacienda de los Morales to the cluster of chef-driven restaurants along Masaryk and around Parque Lincoln: contemporary Mexican cuisine, seafood, steakhouses and international menus. If you want specific ideas, we have guides dedicated to the best seafood restaurants in Polanco and to restaurants near Parque Lincoln.

Green spaces and neighborhood life

The area's busy pace is balanced by numerous parks, tree-lined medians and pedestrian spaces. That balance between business, culture and quality of life is exactly what makes Polanco such a pleasant place to walk, live and stay for a while.

Where to stay in Polanco

If you're after the comfort of a home with a premium location, at Maia Home we have furnished apartments in Polanco designed for nightly, monthly or work stays: WiFi, a fully equipped kitchen and everything included, steps from Masaryk, the museums and Chapultepec. Check availability and book direct, with no middlemen and personal service.

Frequently asked questions about Polanco

Is it a good area to stay in Mexico City?

Yes. Polanco is one of the safest, best-connected and most amenity-rich areas in the city, ideal for both tourism and business trips or longer stays.

How do I get from Polanco to the airport?

The AICM is about 30-40 minutes away by car depending on traffic. You can also take the Metro (Line 7) with a transfer, or a ride-hailing app.

When is the best time to visit Polanco?

The city is pleasant year-round. Spring (March-April) adds the spectacle of the jacarandas in bloom, and fall brings mild weather that's perfect for walking the neighborhood.

Can you explore Polanco on foot?

Yes. Masaryk, Parque Lincoln, the museums and much of the dining scene are all within walking distance — one of the neighborhood's great advantages.