At the heart of a beautiful old neighborhood that was once reserved for Mexico City's aristocratic upper crust, lies pretty Plaza Jacinto, surrounded by shady trees, cobbled streets, and lovely old mansions. It's a fine place to explore any time, but on Saturday, the town center erupts into the Bazar del Sábado, or Saturday Bazaar.
Also known as the San Ángel Market, this is more than just another mercado - though you'll certainly find the usual assortment of fresh produce and cheap eats. But, more importantly, this is the premier arts and handicrafts market in all of Mexico. Offering artesanías from around the country, vendors are here for all your souvenir needs, from $1 hammered-tin milagros, to $2,000 original paintings and sculptures, and absolutely everything in between.
The once wealthy suburb of San Ángel lies about 10 kilometers (6 miles) south of central Mexico City. Unfortunately, it is not served by the Metro, though San Ángel buses plying Avenida Insurgentes take you right to Plaza San Jacinto and the Saturday San Ángel Market.
Metro Line 3's Miguel Ángel de Quevedo station is only about 2 kilometers (a little over 1 mile) from the market, Metro Barranca de Muerto, on Line 7, is a tiny bit closer, along Avenida Revolución. Buses connect both Metro stops to Plaza San Jacinto.
While the best time to visit is during the Saturday San Ángel Market, this attractive old neighborhood also has several small museums to peruse, including artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera's old art studios, as well as several lovely cafes and shops.
