Overview
The Museo Nacional de Historia, Castillo de Chapultepec, is No. 20 in The Art Newspaper's survey of the world's most visited art museums, with 2,676,373 visitors in 2025; no comparison with 2024 was published. The castle crowns Chapultepec Hill in the city's largest park.
Building began in 1785 as a summer residence for the Spanish viceroys. It later became the residence of Emperor Maximilian and Empress Carlota in the 1860s and then of Mexico's presidents, until it opened as the National Museum of History in 1944.
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings are the quietest. The museum is closed on Mondays; check the official website for hours.
Highlights & collections
-
1
The Alcázar
The furnished rooms and gardens of the imperial and presidential residence on the upper level.
-
2
Murals
Large murals by artists including Juan O'Gorman and David Alfaro Siqueiros on the history of Mexico.
-
3
Stained-glass gallery
A gallery of stained-glass windows depicting classical goddesses.
-
4
Terraces
Views along the Paseo de la Reforma towards the city skyline.
-
5
History galleries
Exhibits trace the history of Mexico from the Spanish conquest to the 20th century.
Getting there
The castle is in the first section of Chapultepec Park. From Chapultepec station (Metro Line 1), it is a walk of about 15 minutes, uphill for the last part.
Visiting tips
- Tickets & hours
- Buy tickets at the entrance. Large bags may need to be left in the cloakroom. Check the official website for prices and hours.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours, including the walk up the hill.
- Currency
- Mexican peso (MXN). Carry some cash for small purchases.
- Visa & entry
- Citizens of the US, Canada, the UK, EU countries, Japan and many others do not need a visa for a tourist visit. Check the current rules for your nationality before you travel.
Official information: Museo Nacional de Historia (official website). Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.
Map
Open in Maps View larger map Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors