In 1519, Cortez and a band of 400 Spanish soldiers met and later conquered the Aztec here. It was the beginning of 300 years of Spanish rule in Mexico. The Zocalo in the center of downtown is the world's second largest public gathering place and has been witness to political and religious ceremonies since the fourteenth century. Hotels of all sorts and sizes, every shopping opportunity imaginable and an expansive assortment of restaurants are all found here. This is a city of spectacle and grandeur and despite its enormous problems, it should not be missed.
Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive.
Do not, however, hail taxis on the streets. If you are staying at a hotel, have the hotel doorman find a taxi for you. Avoid roaming VW bug taxis. Try the subway, one of the finest in the world. Some stations have wonderful attractions.