Renowned Mexican athlete and Red Bull Formula 1 driver, Sergio Pérez, shares his favorite spots to explore in the capital ahead of the highly anticipated Mexican Grand Prix.

After a 23-year hiatus, the Mexican Grand Prix returned to Formula 1 with a bang in 2015.

This comeback was particularly special for Pérez. Despite being born in Guadalajara, Pérez's achievements as Mexico's most successful Grand Prix driver have earned him adoration across the country.

Growing up, Pérez tells BBC Travel that Formula 1 wasn’t widely known in Mexico: "Most people had no idea what it was. Finding it on TV was nearly impossible." His father, Antonio Pérez Garibay, was a Nascar Mexico stock car driver, which introduced young Pérez to racing at an early age. "Motorsport runs in my veins," he shares. "My original goal was actually IndyCar—Formula 1 seemed too out of reach. I never knew if I would make it."

Pérez’s stellar performances in Mexican and U.S. karting leveled up his career as he moved into European circuits. Following successful stints in Formula 3 and GP2, Formula 1 teams soon came calling. As a result, Pérez has played a key role in driving Formula 1’s passionate fanbase across Mexico. "The atmosphere here is immense now," Pérez states. "People are highly invested. The excitement is massive all across the country."

Despite his busy travel calendar, Pérez always makes time to visit Mexico City during the Grand Prix (October 27, 2024). He knows exactly where to explore. "It’s such a diverse, cosmopolitan city," he says. Based in Puerto Vallarta, Pérez continues, "There are so many cultures, great food, fun nightlife, cool museums, and a huge variety of sports. The city has everything."

Here are Pérez’s top recommendations for exploring Mexico City during Grand Prix week—or anytime.

If there's one unmistakable Mexican dish, it’s the beloved taco. A hand-sized tortilla filled with ingredients ranging from beef and pork to seafood or veggies, tacos became popular in the 18th Century among Mexican miners for their simplicity. Whenever Pérez is in town, his go-to taco spot is El Fogoncito, a laid-back yet stylish taqueria with two branches near Chapultepec Park, Latin America’s largest and oldest urban oasis.

"El Fogoncito is a spot I’ve always loved," Pérez says. "I always order the gringa (pork and cheese) and el pastor (marinated pork). Their quesadillas are excellent too. Everything here is mouthwatering."

Other local delicacies Pérez highlights include enchiladas—meaty tortillas topped with melted cheese—and pollo con mole, chicken cooked in a robust cacao-infused sauce.

Website: https://www.fogoncito.com/

Instagram: @elfogoncitooficial

Chapultepec Castle, built in 1785, boasts a fascinating past, having served as everything from a military academy to the presidential residence before transitioning into Mexico’s National Museum of History in 1939. Pérez finds each visit magical. "It’s like traveling back in time," he says. "Surrounding yourself with so much history is breathtaking. It’s a must-see for anyone new to Mexico City." The castle, nestled within Chapultepec Park, offers scenic views of lush greenery.

Visitors can take a guided tour through the castle and park. Highlights include the grand 18th-Century carriage hall, the elegant Art Nouveau Introductory room, and the lavishly decorated Smoking Room draped in red velvet, offering a glimpse into Mexico’s regal past.

Website: https://mnh.inah.gob.mx/

Address: Chapultepec Forest I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11580 Mexico City

Phone: +52 55 7601 9811

Instagram: @museodehistoria

Another favorite activity when Pérez is at home? Watching Club America, his favorite football team. For football fans, there’s no better destination than the famed Estadio Azteca, where the team plays its home games.

Estadio Azteca is one of the most historic football stadiums globally, having hosted two World Cup finals won by Brazil and Argentina. Most notably, it witnessed the famous "Game of the Century" in 1970 when Italy beat Germany in the semifinals, and Diego Maradona’s iconic "Hand of God" goal from the 1986 World Cup.

Pérez adds, "Estadio Azteca is one of the largest stadiums in the world. The atmosphere is unlike anything else. I even bring my son when we catch a game—it’s an unforgettable experience. You can enjoy tacos, sip tequila, and meet incredibly friendly people. It’s an essential stop."

While his Formula 1 schedule often keeps him away from live games, Pérez returns in November or December, especially if Club America reaches a final. "Football is always a conversation starter among F1 teams too. Everyone loves talking about it!"

Website: www.estadioazteca.com.mx

Address: Calz. de Tlalpan 3465, Sta. Úrsula Coapa, Coyoacán, 04650 Mexico City

Phone: +52 55 5487 3215

Instagram: @estadioaztecaoficial

Polanco, an upscale area north of Chapultepec Park, is Pérez’s top choice for strolling and shopping with family. It’s a stylish neighborhood packed with high-end shops and shopping centers. "Everything is within walking distance here," he mentions.

Polanco is also home to Pérez’s favorite museum, Museo Soumaya. "It’s one of the largest and most significant museums in Mexico, showcasing the incredible private collection of the Slim family," he explains. This collection spans from pre-Hispanic sculptures to works by Rodin, Dalí, and Murillo.

After soaking in Polanco’s diverse architecture, ranging from Californian to contemporary styles, luxurious dining options and swanky clubs await. Pérez’s usual drink of choice is Patron Silver tequila, though he also loves a paloma margarita.

"There’s no shortage of great clubs in Polanco," he says. "Red Bull hosts amazing afterparties. Last year’s event took place at Auditorio Blackberry in Roma, a neighborhood just west of the historic city center. The only issue I face after the Mexican Grand Prix?" Pérez laughs. "There are just too many parties on Sunday night!"

Website: http://www.museosoumaya.org/

Address: Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, Granada, Miguel Hidalgo, 11529 Mexico City

Phone: +52 55 1103 9800

Instagram: @elmuseoumaya

Although Mexico City is a bustling metropolis, Pérez says there are many peaceful escape spots just outside the city. His personal favorite? Valle de Bravo, a tranquil town nestled by Lake Avandaro, about two hours southwest of the capital. "It’s a beautiful place full of trees and nature. It feels remote, but it’s not far from the city." The 16th-century town is known for its charming cobblestone streets and picturesque colonial buildings—often referred to as the "Switzerland of Mexico."

A passionate golfer, Pérez loves visiting Mexico’s renowned golf courses during his downtime. "Golf is a hobby of mine. I haven’t played in Mexico City, but the beach courses are amazing, particularly in Nuevo Nayarit, Punta Mita, or Cabo. Mexico offers countless fantastic golf opportunities."

BBC Travel’s The SpeciaList offers expert insider guides to global destinations, delivered through the insights of local tastemakers like Pérez.

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