Mexico City

The dry season (November–April) is the best period: clear skies, minimal rain, and 18–24°C temperatures. November, February, and March are the sweet spots — after the rainy season and before the hottest months. The rainy season (June–October) brings afternoon downpours (rarely all-day rain) and grey skies — perfectly manageable but less beautiful. Día de Muertos (November 1–2) is one of Mexico City's most spectacular celebrations — the Mixquic neighbourhood and the Zócalo transform completely.

Mexico City's food scene is the best in the Americas. The taco culture alone would justify the visit: tacos al pastor (spit-roasted pork with pineapple, originated in the city), birria, carnitas, and barbacoa are the canonical forms. El Vilsito (a mechanic's workshop by day, legendary taco al pastor stand by night) and Los Cocuyos in the Centro Histórico are two of the most famous. At the restaurant level, Quintonil and Pujol have repeatedly placed in the World's 50 Best — extraordinary Mexican fine dining that costs a fraction of equivalent European restaurants.

Teotihuacán — the pre-Aztec city of the gods, 50km northeast of Mexico City — is the most important archaeological site in North America. The Pyramid of the Sun (the third-largest pyramid on earth) and the Avenue of the Dead are extraordinary at any time, but dawn (before the tour buses arrive) transforms the site entirely. Take an early bus from Terminal del Norte (1 hour, $5) and be at the Pyramid of the Sun steps by 8am. The Anthropology Museum in Chapultepec Park is the world's finest collection of Mesoamerican artefacts — allow a full day.