Do you want to see a comparison of the Condesa Vs Polanco neighborhoods in Mexico City? If you are planning to visit the Mexican capital and don’t know where to stay or spend the most time, this guide will help you.
Condesa and Polanco are two of the most emblematic, attractive, and lively neighborhoods in Mexico City. Each one has its personality, architecture, history, and atmosphere.
Condesa Vs Polanco neighborhoods History and origin
The Condesa neighborhood emerged when the area was surrounded by farms at the beginning of the 20th century. Condesa’s houses and buildings were mainly built in the French Art Deco of the 1920s and 1930s. Most of its streets are named after cities in Mexico.
Condesa is popular among artists, intellectuals, and young people for its nightlife and international restaurants.
The Polanco neighborhood began to develop at the beginning of the 20th century when wealthy families bought land to build majestic French-style mansions and mansions. In the 90s, it became an exclusive financial and diplomatic enclave.
With its designer boutiques, five-star hotels, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, Polanco established itself as one of the most prestigious and cosmopolitan neighborhoods in Mexico.
Condesa Vs Polanco Neighborhoods Location
The Condesa neighborhood is west of the Historic Center of Mexico City, within the Cuauhtémoc Mayor’s Office. It borders the Hipódromo, Hipódromo Condesa, San Miguel Chapultepec, and Roma colonies. Condesa has a total area of approximately 70 hectares.
Its central location and connectivity with the Metrobus and Metro system make it a very accessible neighborhood. It is very well connected to the rest of the city.
The Polanco neighborhood is northwest of Mexico City, within the Miguel Hidalgo mayor’s office. It borders the Granada, Irrigación, Anzures, Lomas de Chapultepec, and Reforma Social colonies.
With an area of approximately 60 hectares, Polanco comprises five main sections. All under the following nomenclature: Polanco I Section, Polanco II Section, and so on. Its proximity to Paseo de la Reforma and its large skyscrapers make it part of the current city center.
Architecture and style
Condesa’s architecture is strongly influenced by the French Art Deco of the early 20th century. Apartment buildings and 2 or 3-story single-family houses predominate with geometries, balconies, windows, and cornices characteristic of the style.
The facades in light colors with artistic details give it a distinct charm. In recent years, emblematic buildings have been restored, maintaining the bohemian style of the colony.
Polanco has eclectic architecture that combines turn-of-the-century American style with modern office skyscrapers and luxury residences. They include large Californian-style houses that coexist with imposing glass and steel buildings.
In the corporate and modern residential areas, large towers made of concrete, glass, and steel with minimalist facades predominate. Polanco is a great corporate and commercial attraction, without neglecting its rich cultural activity. Polanco offers an eclectic and distinctive architectural profile. Its wide tree-lined avenues and green areas complement the urban design.
Tourist attractions of the Condesa Vs Polanco neighborhoods
Condesa has numerous tourist attractions that reflect its commercial and bohemian atmosphere. It has a large number of buildings with artistic value, around 250. These buildings have different styles, although the predominant one is the Art Deco architecture present in houses, buildings, and emblematic squares such as Plaza Popocatépetl.
The walks along its tree-lined avenues admiring the colorful facades are unmissable. Parque México is the lung and meeting point of the neighborhood, with a large green area and an artificial lake.
Its dozens of outdoor cafes are excellent to feel the atmosphere of the neighborhood. Don’t miss visiting the commercial passages in the area, such as Amsterdam Avenue and Tamaulipas Avenue.
Polanco seduces with its majestic residences and colonial buildings that evoke the Californian style of yesteryear. You can see several buildings of this style on Horacio Avenue, near Lincoln Park, and on the Champs Elysées.
Lincoln Park is the best known in the neighborhood, with its clock tower. The number of skyscrapers in the neighborhood is also very attractive, with buildings more than 100 meters high. The Hyatt Regency Mexico City stands out with its more than 140 meters and 43 floors.
Walking along Avenida Presidente Masaryk with its luxury boutiques and exclusive restaurants shows the most glamorous side of Polanco. The Soumaya Museum and the Tamayo Museum are also unmissable places for art lovers.
Cultural events of the Condesa Vs Polanco neighborhoods
Condesa has an intense cultural life with events in its squares and public spaces. The neighborhood is part of the Roma Condesa Cultural Corridor. It is celebrated annually in each of these neighborhoods. In this corridor, you can see galleries, exhibitions, concerts, dance, theater, and urban art.
Another good cultural meeting point is Amsterdam Avenue, specifically the House of Gaga Gallery and its contemporary art. And of course, you cannot miss a visit to the Chapultepec Castle located in the forest of the same name.
The bohemian atmosphere of Condesa Colony attracts photography exhibitions, independent film festivals, and food festivals. Its parks host craft fairs, yoga events, and eco-markets on weekends.
Polanco has an intense cultural agenda thanks to its museums, galleries, and outdoor spaces. One of the most prolific is the Soumaya Museum run by the Slim Foundation. It has a collection of more than 70 thousand pieces of works of art.
There is also the National Museum of Anthropology in the Chapultepec Forest, with an area of 8 hectares and 24 exhibition rooms. It stands as a faithful representative of the archeology of Mexico. You cannot miss the Stone of the Sun when you visit it.
The Rufino Tamayo Museum, the Chapultepec Zoo, the Paseo de la Reforma, and the Botanical Garden complement a great cultural tour.
Restaurants in the Condesa Vs Polanco neighborhoods
Condesa is a gastronomic paradise with a large number of international restaurants. Its outdoor cafes stand out to savor the atmosphere of the neighborhood, such as Lardo and Café Toscana. You’ll find traditional Mexican cuisine at places like Azul Condesa and El Parnita; and pizzas and pastas at Panzoni and La Rosetta. Inns and taquerias abound, especially at night.
For a more cosmopolitan experience, there is MeroToro, La Capital, and Sushi Kyo. And if you’re looking for something exclusive, Rosetta and Lardo are great options. The prices are according to the area and the atmospheres are generally casual.
Polanco is a gourmet destination par excellence. Its elegant restaurants range from signature cuisine to exclusive international chains. You will find restaurants with haute cuisine and an elegant atmosphere such as Pujol, Quintonil, or Caprice. There are also international chains such as Nobu and Cipriani Dolci. Japanese cuisine stands out with places like Makoto and Salvaje Masaryk.
The atmosphere is generally rather formal and the prices are high. There are also more casual options like taquerias and outdoor cafes. Polanco is ideal for living an exclusive gastronomic experience in a refined environment, with the best chefs and creative menus in the country.
The best hotels in Condesa and Polanco
The hotel offers in Condesa are very varied, you can see 5-star luxury hotels and boutiques with an intimate atmosphere inspired by the architecture of the neighborhood. One of the most emblematic is the Hotel Condesa DF and its 40 rooms. Another well-known one is the Mondrian Mexico City with its 183 rooms and its excellent terrace.
Other recommended ones are the Hotel Roosevelt, Casa 9, and Casa Cleo. They capture the bohemian spirit of the neighborhood combined with modern decoration. Their services are more personalized. If you are looking for 5-star options, nothing better than The Ritz–Carlton and the Eurostars. They are hotels where glamour, luxury, and comfort will exceed your expectations.
The hotels in Polanco are from recognized chains and add elegance. The Hyatt Regency and the Presidente Intercontinental are the most emblematic of a luxurious stay. Their level of service and amenities are impeccable.
Equally exclusive options are the JW Marriott Hotel and the W Mexico City. Its facilities include a spa, swimming pools, gourmet restaurants, and elegant bars. The prices are high but in line with the luxury they offer. The location near museums and restaurants is privileged. They are perfect for living in the high society of Polanco.
Parks and green areas of Condesa and Polanco
Condesa has large green areas ideal for relaxing. Parque México is the most emblematic, with its lush gardens and large pond. It is the venue for cultural events and a social meeting point.
Other notable parks are Parque España and Plaza Popocatépetl with its fountain. They have gardens, tree-lined paths, and benches to enjoy the urban landscape. The streets are full of trees, planters, and linear parks. It is common to see neighbors walking their dogs, skating, or simply relaxing in these urban oases.
The emblematic Lincoln Park is the most important green area in Polanco. It has a lot of vegetation, birds, animals, and fountains. You will also see exclusive children’s areas for children. In addition, it is close to the famous President Masaryk Avenue.
Another Park to visit is Parque América. It is surrounded by Horacio Avenue and is highly recommended for walks and rollerblading. Parque Uruguay is also another site full of vegetation and squirrels, ideal for enjoying the outdoors.
Although less abundant than in Condesa, Polanco’s parks offer a natural oasis to disconnect from so many corporate areas.
Why visit the Condesa and Polanco neighborhoods by helicopter?
We hope that this comparison of the Condesa Vs Polanco neighborhoods will help you decide which one best suits your plans in Mexico City. Each one has its own personality and unique attractions to live an unforgettable experience.
If you want a spectacular aerial view of these beautiful neighborhoods, we recommend our helicopter tour with Mexico Helicopter. We offer panoramic flights to observe in detail the architectural contrasts, urban design, and charms of each area. From the heights, you can appreciate all its greatness and experience unmatched emotions.
Mexico Helicopter’s experienced pilots and modern fleet ensure a safe, adrenaline-filled ride over vibrant Mexico City. Do not miss it!
References
https://www.marketdatamexico.com/es/article/Colonia-Condesa-Cuauhtemoc-Ciudad-Mexico
https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colonia_Condesa_(Ciudad_de_M%C3%A9xico)#
https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polanco_(Ciudad_de_M%C3%A9xico)
https://escapadas.mexicodesconocido.com.mx/ciudad-de-mexico/polanco/
https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corredor_Cultural_Roma_Condesa
