Traditions & Heritage • 4 hours 5.0 (6)

Epic Tales of Mexico's Literary Treasures

Discover Mexico City’s most stunning libraries and hidden literary treasures, guided by a local host who brings each story and space to life!

Make sure to pack a hoodie or sweater as the city's high altitude brings drastic temperature changes and it can get quite chilly at night.

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • Kick off your literary adventure at Casa de la Primera Imprenta - it’s like walking through the pages of the past!
  • Bookworms and art lovers alike will be in awe at the stunning Biblioteca Miguel Lerdo de Tejada.
  • Craving more literary magic? Head to the vibrant Biblioteca de México, where you can get lost in a world of stories.
  • Prepare to be blown away by the futuristic Biblioteca Vasconcelos, where floating bookshelves and lush gardens create a jaw-dropping space.
  • Bringing the kids along? No worries! Biblioteca de México and Biblioteca Vasconcelos have awesome toy libraries to keep the little ones entertained.

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

4 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

Per person
Hosted experience lasting up to 4 hours
Private and tailored to your group only
Immersive walking experience between stops
Public transportation
Hotel meet-up (available on request for central locations)

What’s not included

Food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions
Additional transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral, P.za de la Constitución S/N, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

  • We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
  • Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

What you’ll do

If you're a book lover like me, you need to be ready for this experience. When people think of libraries, they think of the most famous ones—the Vatican, New York, Trinity College, etc. However, Mexico City should be on your list of libraries. The vibe is immaculate, and the art is breathtaking. 

Ready to dive into the literary heart of Mexico City? This experience is a book lover's dream, taking you on a journey through the city's most iconic libraries, hidden gems, and architectural marvels. With your local host leading the way, you'll step into spaces that are bursting with history, culture, and stories just waiting to be discovered. 

Your literary journey kicks off at Casa de la Primera Imprenta, where Mexico's first printed words came to life! Get ready to step back in time and see how this unassuming building sparked a revolution in knowledge, shaping Mexico's cultural landscape. Your host will share stories about how early printing presses worked, and you'll get up close and personal with the craftsmanship behind these early publications. It's like holding a piece of history in your hands! You'll leave with a newfound appreciation for how the printed word transformed a nation.

Next stop: the stunning Biblioteca Miguel Lerdo de Tejada. Tucked away in the city, this library is a treasure trove of rare books and jaw-dropping art. Seriously, you won't be able to miss the massive 2,000 m² mural by artist Vlady that covers the walls in a vibrant display of color and storytelling. As you browse the shelves of literary gems and historic manuscripts, your host will regale you with tales of the Mexican writers and thinkers who have shaped the country's literary scene. You'll be surrounded by centuries of stories – the perfect place to get lost in the magic of words!

Then, it's off to the Biblioteca de México, where the world of books meets a bustling cultural hotspot. Set within the lively La Ciudadela cultural complex, this library is anything but ordinary. Wander through its vast halls of books, take a moment to breathe in the fresh air in its peaceful garden, or even catch a live performance or exhibition happening nearby. Your host will guide you through the library's personal collections of legendary Mexican authors like Alí Chumacero and Carlos Monsiváis. And if you're traveling with kids, there's a delightful toy library where the little ones can dive into their own adventure – you might even have a hard time pulling them away!

Just when you think it can't get any better, you'll arrive at the show-stopping Biblioteca Vasconcelos, known as the "Megabiblioteca." Imagine walking into a space where bookshelves seem to float in midair, and every corner invites you to sit, relax, and lose yourself in a story. This architectural masterpiece isn't just a library – it's a literary playground! The design alone will leave you speechless, with its soaring steel and glass structure, but the atmosphere is peaceful and perfect for anyone who wants to soak in some serious bookish vibes. And don't miss the gardens out back – a lush green escape that's perfect for a quiet moment. If you've got kids along, they'll be thrilled with the toy library here, too!

Throughout the day, your host will make sure you experience more than just books – you'll dive deep into Mexico City's literary heart, uncovering hidden gems and stories you wouldn't find on your own. Whether you're here for the books, the history, or the stunning architecture, each stop will leave you with something unforgettable. I can't wait to hear all about it!

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories
Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1233200823

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1233200823

Ingrid_Gallardo_BR-1233710299

Ingrid_Gallardo_BR-1233710299

Ingrid_Gallardo_BR-1243289905

Ingrid_Gallardo_BR-1243289905

Adriana_Nieves_BR-1245060927

Adriana_Nieves_BR-1245060927

Ingrid_Gallardo_BR-1239570615

Ingrid_Gallardo_BR-1239570615

Rafael_Gallardo_Mexico_City_BR-1240765179

Rafael_Gallardo_Mexico_City_BR-1240765179

Ernesto_Gil_Mexico_City_CU-110495

Ernesto_Gil_Mexico_City_CU-110495

Ernesto_Gil_Mexico_City_CU-110495

Ernesto_Gil_Mexico_City_CU-110495

Ernesto_Gil_Mexico_City_CU-110495

Ernesto_Gil_Mexico_City_CU-110495

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1242855807

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1242855807

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1242855807

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1242855807

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1233200823

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1233200823

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1233200823

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1233200823

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1233200823

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1233200823

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1233200823

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1233200823

Claudia_Arce_Mexico_City_BR-1220952271

Claudia_Arce_Mexico_City_BR-1220952271

Claudia_Arce_Mexico_City_BR-1220952271

Claudia_Arce_Mexico_City_BR-1220952271

Claudia_Arce_Mexico_City_BR-1220952271

Claudia_Arce_Mexico_City_BR-1220952271

Adriana_Nieves_Mexico_City_BR-1241022375

Adriana_Nieves_Mexico_City_BR-1241022375

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1237301929

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1237301929

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1237301929

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1237301929

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1237301929

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1237301929

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1237301929

Lando_Lopez_Mexico_City_BR-1237301929

Adriana_Nieves_Mexico_City_BR-1240444111

Adriana_Nieves_Mexico_City_BR-1240444111

Adriana_Nieves_Mexico_City_BR-1240444111

Adriana_Nieves_Mexico_City_BR-1240444111

Adriana_Nieves_Mexico_City_BR-1240444111

Adriana_Nieves_Mexico_City_BR-1240444111

Tile Tales at Casa de los Azulejos

Tile Tales at Casa de los Azulejos

Tasting Tradition in Parque España

Tasting Tradition in Parque España

Smiles & Spoons: Ice Cream in the Sun

Smiles & Spoons: Ice Cream in the Sun

Taco Time Like a Local

Taco Time Like a Local

Sweet Moments at El Moro

Sweet Moments at El Moro

Romance in San Ángel

Romance in San Ángel

Laughter on Calle de la Palma

Laughter on Calle de la Palma

Clay Cups & Cultural Sips

Clay Cups & Cultural Sips

Templo Mayor Triumph

Templo Mayor Triumph

Cheers in a Pulquería

Cheers in a Pulquería

Colorful Canal Cruising in Xochimilco

Colorful Canal Cruising in Xochimilco

Diego Rivera's Hidden Corner

Diego Rivera's Hidden Corner

Family Fun in Centro Histórico

Family Fun in Centro Histórico

Pink Cheers & Friendly Toasts

Pink Cheers & Friendly Toasts

First Steps, Big Smiles – Welcome to CDMX!

First Steps, Big Smiles – Welcome to CDMX!

Artisan Tiles & Timeless Tales

Artisan Tiles & Timeless Tales

Tacos, Talk, and Good Company

Tacos, Talk, and Good Company

A Taste of Tradition at the Gran Café

A Taste of Tradition at the Gran Café

Legends in the Zócalo

Legends in the Zócalo

La Casa de los Azulejos, One Tile at a Time

La Casa de los Azulejos, One Tile at a Time

Sipping Mezcal in a Golden Glow

Sipping Mezcal in a Golden Glow

Stained Glass & Serendipity at Chapultepec Castle

Stained Glass & Serendipity at Chapultepec Castle

Exploring a vibrant Mexico City neighborhood

Exploring a vibrant Mexico City neighborhood

Heritage Walk Through Templo Mayor

Heritage Walk Through Templo Mayor

Café Sereno in Chapultepec

Café Sereno in Chapultepec

Overlooking Mercado Sonora

Overlooking Mercado Sonora

An Architectural Pause in Centro Histórico

An Architectural Pause in Centro Histórico

Tasting Pulque in a Hidden Cantina

Tasting Pulque in a Hidden Cantina

Thumbs Up for a Taco Adventure

Thumbs Up for a Taco Adventure

Vibrant Nights & Papel Picado Magic

Vibrant Nights & Papel Picado Magic

Street Music & Sunlight in Centro Histórico

Street Music & Sunlight in Centro Histórico

Urban Adventure on Paseo de la Reforma

Urban Adventure on Paseo de la Reforma

Exploring Spiritual Heritage

Exploring Spiritual Heritage

Morning Explorers in La Merced

Morning Explorers in La Merced

17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.

recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.

What travelers think of this experience

Rebecca Apr 2025

I have never had such a unique tour. Marisol asked in advance what I was hoping to get out of the tour. She crafted a morning to introduce me to the history, culture, politics and religion of Mexico city over the centuries, by visiting amazing sites I would have not even thought to see. Then when our time was done, she created a google maps walking path for me to see more sites on my own. Lovely and knowledgeable woman.

Show more
Siobhan Apr 2025

My first time in Mexico City. The day before, I was able to visit the National Museum of History in Chapultepec Park which in of itself is amazing. The museum uses beautiful murals and artwork to tell the history of Mexico. I was able to apply what I learned to the tour. This tour ended being the last thing on my trip and I truly enjoyed it. Mexicans have a funny bone which I was able to point out and both the guide Adriana and I were able to laugh. Lots of history, lots of fun. Bring a water bottle, hat or parasol, and sunscreen, the sun is no joke. I started my tour at 0800 (3hrs). I chose the private tour b/c I wanted to go at my pace

Show more
Julia Apr 2025

Adriana brings Mexico City's history to life while fostering real connection and intellectual conversation. Highly recommended for curious minds. She is an outstanding, knowledgeable, authentic, and thoughtful guide. She took the time to ask what we were interested in, and when we said Aztec history and the Mexican Revolution, she lit up. We had deep conversations about colonialism, inequality, and the complexities of historical figures. She didn’t shy away from tough topics and offered insights without preaching; we even swapped thoughts on our own personal cultural histories. It was the kind of tour that stays with you, not just because of the places we saw but the ideas we explored together. Adriana is someone I genuinely hope to stay in touch with. If you’re the kind of person who asks big questions and wants more than surface-level storytelling, she’s exactly who you want as your guide.

Show more
Sally Apr 2025

Lando was an amazing tour guide He was very well informed and up to date We saw historic sights and local areas of interest I would highly recommend him

Show more
Shigetsu Apr 2025

This tour was great because the company customizes the tour to your needs and they even prepare a questionnaire before you go on the tour. But what made the tour great was Lando as he was not only knowledgeable but very entertaining to be with and most importantly knew where to go, what to eat, and what to experience so that I would have a good time. I highly recommend this tour anyone!

Show more
Marion Apr 2025

Rafael from CityUnscripted was excellent to customise the tour to our needs and followup with recommendations after the trip too. He was on time, spoke very well English and shared many great insights about the city. I would definitely recommend him.

Show more
SEE ALL REVIEWS