Centro Histórico and Alameda Central

The Zócalo, its surrounding Centro Histórico (historic center), and Alameda Central were the heart of both the Aztec and Spanish cities. There's a palpable European influence in this area, which is undergoing ongoing refurbishment, leaving the streets cleaner and many buildings, particularly around the Zócalo, more pleasant. Seven hundred years of history lie beneath its jagged thoroughfares. The sidewalks hum with street vendors, hurried office workers, and tourists blinking in wonder. Every block seems energized with perpetual noise and motion, though the area has lately become a bit quieter and much easier to walk. One major street, Francisco I. Madero, is now permanently closed to traffic, and several of the streets near the central plaza are also closed to cars on weekends, so the streets are free for bicyclists and pedestrians.