Twelve different neighborhoods or zonas make up Mexico City, each one having its own distinctive personality and feel.  The neighborhoods which will be of most interest to tourists are La Zona Rosa, the Downtown, and the Zócalo.  La Zona Rosa, or Pink Zone, is located south of Paseo de la Reforma.  The area is home to many upscale boutiques, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and hotels.  It is a pleasant and safe area to walk around and a good place to shop.  One of Mexico City's most famous shopping streets, Amberes, is located here.

The Zólcolo is where Mexico's federal government offices are located.  It is a huge square, often full of lively flea markets and street performers.  The Zócalo is surrounded by many restaurants, cafes, and shopping streets as well as by many of the city's oldest buildings.  The spot where the presidential palace sits at the Zócalo is the same place where the palace of the Aztec king Montezuma once stood.

Mexico City's downtown is largely its business district, but it is also home to many of the city's fine restaurants and shopping.