Should your holiday in Mexico City overlap a Monday, when Chapultepec Park and most museums are closed, don't panic. We have a list of the 10 best things to do on Mondays in the former Aztec capital, now modern metropolis. 
Teotihuacan pyramid of the sun--on a Monday — Photo courtesy of Katie Dillon
1. Visit the pre-Hispanic city of Teotihuacan. A trip to Mexico City is incomplete without visiting this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site built between the 1st-7th centuries A.D. The small museum on site will be closed, however, climbing up the pyramids will dwarf anything you'd see on display. The pyramids are about an hour away from Mexico City.
2. Reflect at Basilica de Guadalupe. Often paired with a trip to Teotihuacan, this National Shrine is one of the most important Catholic sites in the world. See the famous apron of Juan Diego that shows the icon of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Worship at one of the 30 masses offered daily.
3. Take the kids to Papalote Children's Museum. One of Mexico's most technologically advanced museums is for children to learn world through hundreds of hands-on exhibits. It's a must-see for visiting families.
4. Eat. Mexico City is a foodie's paradise. With over 50 regional cuisines to choose from, eating in the D.F. will certainly make the Tex-Mex at home less appealing. Try sopas from street vendors (at your own risk), mole at family restaurants or fondas, or a even fancy Argentinian steak. Leave the diet at home.
5. Wander La Condesa. Known as the SoHo of Mexico City, this trendy neighborhood boasts excellent shopping and dining along with two urban parks. The shops are open on Mondays.
6. Mix government and art. Check out Zócalo, the city's historic center.
7. Sip tequila. El Bar at the Four Seasons Mexico, D.F. sets out over 130 tequilas in the late afternoon. Order a taster set and find your favorite under guidance of the knowledgeable staff.
Xochimilco market — Photo courtesy of The Mexico Tourism Board
8. Shop a public market. La Merced is the city's largest market where food, housewares, oil cloth and more are for sale. Or, try Xochimilco the popular, but slightly farther-flung market with delicious prepared foods and more.
9. Stroll Paseo de la Reforma. An elegant, shaded street that runs diagonally from Chapultepec Park to Zócalo. Walk the pedestrian walkway in the center of the street and admire the many monuments dedicated to figures such as Christopher Columbus and Cuauhtémoc, the last Aztec emperor.
10. Immerse yourself in crafts. La Ciudadela is an artisan market heaving with handicrafts including embroidery, dolls, woven baskets, leather goods and more. Bring small bills because you can bargain. Some stands don't open until after noon on weekdays.
Also, remember that museums are free to Mexico City residents on Sundays. Translation: They will be crowded so plan accordingly.
