About Motolina 33
Motolinía 33 (often called M33) is a small音乐 venue and nightclub located at Calle de Motolinia 33 in Mexico City's historic Centro Histórico. It occupies a renovated colonial-era building (once a restaurant) in the heart of the city . The space was re-launched around the early 2020s as an intimate cultural club focusing on live music and arts. One event guide even describes Motolinía 33 as “un espacio cultural en el corazón de la ciudad ” – a cultural space at the heart of downtown hosting artistic performances and community events . Even as it serves as a cutting-edge dance club, the venue’s location on Motolinia Street (a historic pedestrian block near the Zócalo) gives it a unique blend of old-meets-new character. It has a cozy capacity (reports showed a recent show capped at about 100 guests ), making most nights feel like private events. Motolinía 33 matters to the CDMX scene because it revives the legacy of downtown nightlife (even taking over what used to be the Pasagüero club) and provides a dedicated home for underground electronic, hip-hop, and cultural performances right in the historic core.
Events and Programming
Motolinía 33 hosts a variety of events, especially late-night music nights. Its calendar is dominated by underground electronic and techno parties, often run by well-known local promoters. For example, the CommonSense “MENTAL” series brings in international techno DJs (Rødhåd, Luke Slater, Claudio PRC) along with local acts for marathon sets until dawn . Similarly, the “Techno Friday Nacht” nights feature headline DJs (Marco Shuttle, MARRØN, Sinistermind, etc.) supported by resident DJs, with 10pm–6am lineups and presale tickets around $350–$550 MXN . These events often sell out quickly. Besides techno, the venue has hosted indie and hip-hop shows (in 2022 Mexican rapper Proof celebrated 10 years with a concert at M33) . Recurring series like “Relink:Data” or local “Sunday Sessions” bring experimental or experimental hip-hop lineups, and occasional jazz-themed or multimedia nights have appeared. In sum, you’ll find Motolinía 33 filled most weekends with diverse live music, from electronic festivals to underground rap, plus art exhibitions and community programs as hinted by local listings . Many shows offer both general admission and a limited VIP area or ticket tier (for example, one rap event charged MXN$200 general and $600 VIP ). Typical ticket pricing ranges from a few hundred pesos for local bands to several hundred for marquee DJs, and events run mostly 18+ due to late-night hours and the club’s bar facilities.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Motolinía 33 events must be booked in advance either online through the event promoter or (for some shows) at a local box office. The venue itself has no dedicated “box office,” so most tickets are sold by the promoter on their website or through partner outlets. For instance, announcements for past concerts have noted tickets being available both via an online vendor and a neighborhood shop . It’s smart to buy early: popular techno nights at M33 often sell out quickly at each pricing phase (some events had early-bird tickets at ~MXN$350 ). Generally, follow the event listing or the club’s social media (if available) to know when tickets go on sale. Door sales may be offered on the night if an event isn’t sold out, but presale tickets usually cost less. Ticket price tiers usually reflect demand; for example, a November 2024 lineup with Luke Slater was $[≈550] on late purchase , while smaller shows could be under $200 per ticket . In summary, get tickets early via the official channels or event page, and be prepared for advanced sales or local shop pick-up (venues in the Centro often use neighborhood record stores or cafes for ticket distribution).
Seating and Layout
Motolinía 33 is laid out as a compact nightclub rather than a traditional seated auditorium. The main floor is a general admission dance area in front of a raised DJ booth or small stage. There is little formal seating – most nights are standing-room with limited bar-height tables at the sides or back. Each event typically has one central performance area; the DJ/platform is on one end of the club. Sound and lighting are geared for dance music, so you’ll find powerful speakers and lights positioned around the room. Acoustically, the floor is a single open space, meaning you can hear clearly from most spots but it gets loud near the speakers. For visibility, standing on the dance floor anywhere near the stage is best; there are no obstructed-view seats, but VIP or elevated spaces (if offered) usually sit to the sides or in small mezzanines. In short, think nightclub layout: front-and-center by the DJ if you want the action, or side areas for a slightly quieter view. Some events sold “VIP” passes which likely reserved a table or cordoned area near the DJ . If you prefer less dense crowds, arriving early can get you a spot up front, but nearly all areas have a decent view of the performance thanks to the club’s compact size.
Getting There and Parking
Motolinía 33’s address is Calle de Motolinía No. 33, Colonia Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06010 Ciudad de México . It sits in the historic downtown just off Plaza del Zócalo, adjacent to Calle 16 de Septiembre. The venue is very close to major transit: the Allende Metro station (Line 2, trolleybus) is just a block away, and Zócalo Metro (Lines 2 and 8) or Metrobus routes on nearby 5 de Mayo are a short walk. Buses and shared shuttles run along Tacuba/Madero streets; convenience depends on the time of night. Evening visits are easiest by taxi or rideshare – cars can typically drop off on Calle Motolinía itself (between 5 de Febrero and 16 de Septiembre) or on 16 de Septiembre nearby. Street parking is extremely limited in the Centro; there is no dedicated lot for Motolinía 33 . The safest bet is a paid public garage (for example near the Zócalo on República de Uruguay or along Eje Central) or using a parking app in the neighborhood. In practice, most patrons use the Metro or ride-hailing, as Centro Historico enforces metered street parking and spaces fill up quickly. If driving, allow extra time for traffic and parking. Otherwise, the venue is easily accessed by public transit and plenty of legal cabs operate in the area late into the night.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Motolinía 33, expect a standard club entry process: security screening and ticket check at the door. The club’s interior is dimly lit and clubby in atmosphere – often decorated with modern industrial touches and club lighting effects. There is a full bar serving beer, liquor mixes, and cocktails, and bartenders will accept both cash and cards (as is common in CDMX). Food service is minimal (often just snacks like chips or small bites) – it’s primarily a dance venue, not a full-service restaurant. Restrooms are available on-site (separate men’s and women’s, typically basic in design), and they are checked frequently by staff. You can expect phone coverage inside to be spotty (common for subterranean venues), and there is no known free Wi-Fi for patrons. Coat checks may be offered for large events (sometimes a small fee), but many people just hold onto jackets or drape them on tables, since space is tight. Merchandise tables (for T-shirts, etc.) appear occasionally during major events (for example, techno nights have sold DJs merch at the party). Photography is generally limited – you’ll see many people taking phone snapshots, but flash photography or professional cameras are usually discouraged by policy. Phones and small cameras are allowed for personal use, but avoid large tripods or professional gear unless explicitly permitted. Overall, expect a youthful, energetic atmosphere: hosts and bouncers are friendly but will enforce rules (18+ entry, no outside food/drinks, no drugs). Enjoyment is mainly through the sound system and dance floor – bring ear protection if you’re sensitive to loud bass, as some nights get extremely loud.
Nearby Amenities
The surroundings of Motolinía 33 are lively with dining and lodging options. For pre-show dining, you’re in the center of CDMX’s “food circus.” A few blocks east on Madero is the historic Casa de los Azulejos (a Sanborns restaurant in the classic tiled building) and dozens of taquerías and cafés. Directly nearby on Motolinía or just off it are casual spots like Talisman de Motolinía (a small café/bar), plus the well-known Zinco Jazz Club just a couple blocks away (live jazz and dinner) . Many bars (La Ópera Bar, La Catedral, etc.) and restaurants (Café Tacuba, Azul Histórico, Gallo de Oro) are within walking distance on surrounding streets. Overnight stay-options abound: everything from budget hostels to boutique hotels (for example, Hotel Zócalo Central or Gran Hotel Ciudad de México) lie near the square. If you arrive early, you could sip coffee at an Alameda Hyde Park or patio-style café on Plaza de la Constitución, or grab late-night tacos across the street after the show (Central/argentinas tacos on Madero). For late-night transport after events, Taxis and Uber are plentiful outside the club, and the Metro runs until midnight (and night buses cover some main routes). Plan to arrive early if you want to enjoy nearby bars or buy last-minute snacks: after 10 PM the area fills with club-goers and some eateries may shut earlier. Altogether, the venue’s prime location means most visitor needs – food, hotels, transit – are conveniently close by.
What Makes This Venue Special
Motolinía 33 stands out as a cultural crossroads. Architecturally, it’s a historic Centro building repurposed as a modern club – blending colonial charm outside with cutting-edge design inside. Culturally, it revives a storied nightlife address (it’s essentially the relocated Pasagüero space ) while introducing new music genres to the old city core. It’s special because you can go from visiting the Zócalo at sundown to dancing to world-class techno DJs by midnight, all within a few blocks. Famous performances and anniversaries have already taken place here, cementing its reputation: for example, CommonSense nights celebrating local techno lore, or Mexican artists marking career milestones on the same stage as international acts . The venue’s mix of global and local art – plus its community emphasis – gives it a unique pulse. Visitors appreciate the warehouse-style freedom of the club (bright light shows, booming sound, late-night party until dawn) in the intimate setting of a tight, friendly crowd. Locals love that downtown finally has a dedicated space for underground music; artists love it for the top-notch PA and creative vibe. In short, Motolinía 33 is special because it literally puts a progressive, eclectic club scene into the heart of Mexico City’s historic neighborhood, making for legendary nights that tie together both sides of the city’s cultural heritage.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The club is on the ground floor of an older building. There is no elevator, so wheelchair access is limited and the space can be cramped. You can reach the venue by wheelchair from street level, but be aware of narrow doorways and one small step at the entrance. One accessible restroom is usually provided, but ask staff if needed. If you have mobility concerns, sitting in a raised area at the back might be more comfortable than standing on the packed dance floor.
Dress Code: Dress is casual and trendy. Club attire is fine – t-shirts, jeans, sneakers, etc. Save formalwear or beachwear for elsewhere. Some nights, locals will dress up a bit (dark colors, stylish shoes) but there’s no strict code. Avoid large backpacks or bulky outfits (you’ll have to carry them in the club).
Entry Requirements: The venue strictly enforces minimum age. All public shows are 18+ only (video IDs or passports are checked at the door). For private events it’s the same – no minors. Smoking inside is prohibited by law; any smoking must be done outside on the street. Lasers and strobe lights are common inside, so they might trigger photosensitivity; step aside if needed.
What to Bring/Not Bring: Bring a government-issued photo ID (or your student/driver’s license) for age check. Bring enough pesos or a card for drinks – the bar is cash/card. Outside food, drinks, or large bags are not allowed through security. Phone cameras are fine for snapshots, but avoid pro cameras or flash photography. Expect crowds, so watch your belongings. Leave loose items (like jackets or phones) in sight or a quick-access pocket. If you get overheated, there’s often a bit of smoking/air in the back corner to cool down after dancing.
Timing and Safety: Plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes after doors open (usually around 10pm or 11pm) so you don’t miss too much music, but arriving too late risks selling out. Late nights here end early morning (some shows go to 5–6am), so have a way home (taxis or lodging) sorted out. Taxis and Uber (Didi) are reliable in Centro at night; avoid walking alone in the small hours. The Centro stops being busy by 2–3am, so consider staying at a nearby hotel if you’re from out of town. Finally, always check the posted event info (venue social or local listings) for any special rules – for instance, some nights might have a coat check fee or a cloakroom.
Are tickets available at the venue or only online?
Motolinía 33 has no traditional box office, so tickets are usually sold in advance. Most are offered through the event promoter’s online page or affiliated outlets. Some promoters also sell a limited number at a nearby shop or on-site if the show isn’t sold out. It’s safest to buy tickets ahead of time via the official announcement (often on Resident Advisor or local event pages).
What is the typical price range for shows at Motolinia 33?
Ticket prices vary widely by event. Local bands or themed nights can be inexpensive (often around MXN 100–200), while major international DJs are pricier. For example, a 2022 hip-hop show had general admission at MXN 200, whereas a late-2024 techno lineup charged around MXN 550 for tickets . Early-bird presale prices are usually lower than door prices. Also some shows offer VIP/“enhanced” tickets at a premium.
How do I get to Motolinia 33 by public transport?
The club is in downtown CDMX. The nearest Metro station is Allende on Line 2 (you can exit at 16 de Septiembre & Madero, then walk west one block). Alternatively, Metro Zócalo (Line 2/8) is a few blocks southeast. Many city buses and the Metrobús serve the area (Madero and 5 de Mayo streets are a block away). For evening visits, Uber/Didi or licensed taxis are recommended. They’ll usually drop you right on Motolinía 33. Note: street parking in Centro is scarce and metered, so public transit or ride-hailing is easiest.
Is there parking available at Motolinia 33?
No, Motolinía 33 does not have its own parking lot. It’s on a narrow pedestrian street in Centro Histórico, where on-street parking is limited and paid by the hour. Visitors usually park in public garages (e.g., near the Zócalo or along Calle República de Uruguay) or use ride-sharing/taxis. If you plan to drive, allow extra time for finding a legal spot in the area, or better yet use Metro or a cab.
What’s the seating layout? Are there assigned seats?
Motolinía 33 is primarily a standing-room club. There are no fixed rows of seats. Events are general admission on the dance floor in front of the DJ or stage. For some shows, a few high tables or a small balcony might be reserved as “VIP,” but most attendees stand. To get the best view, simply be on the floor near the DJ booth – the venue’s compact size means speakers and stage are visible from almost anywhere on the main floor. Roughly speaking, there is no official seating chart; it’s an open layout best suited for dancing and mingling.
Are minors or children allowed?
No. Almost all events at Motolinía 33 are strictly for ages 18 and over. The venue enforces an adult-only policy (typically for age 18+ with valid ID) because of its late hours and alcohol sales. If any special all-ages show were ever planned, it would be a rare exception, and you would need to check with the event promoter directly. In general, expect every ticket check to require ID proving you are at least 18.
What’s the dress code at Motolinia 33?
The dress code is casual clubwear. Fans typically wear street clothes – jeans, T-shirts, club-style shirts, sneakers, or boots. There’s no formal dress code, but look presentable. Rave or street-fashion is fine (bright colors or all-black outfits are common). Avoid beach sandals, athletic wear, or overly formal attire. In short, wear something comfortable but stylish enough for the nightclub scene. Some people do dress up a bit more for techno nights (e.g. dark outfits, boots), but it’s mostly relaxed. If in doubt, rock an outfit you’d wear to any nightclub in CDMX.
Is smoking allowed inside?
No. By CDMX law, indoor smoking is banned in most public spaces, and Motolinía 33 follows that rule. You will see smoking only outside the building. Door lounges or outside patios may be provided at times, but never smoke inside while others are dancing or dining. If you must smoke, step outside and keep a short break so you don’t miss the next set.
Does the venue have Wi-Fi or charging facilities?
No, Motolinía 33 does not usually offer guest Wi-Fi. This is a night club environment, so assume it’s “no Wi-Fi” and limited phone signal (thick walls and lots of people can weaken service). If you need to charge devices, keep that in mind before heading out; the bar area may have some power outlets, but don’t count on it. It’s wise to charge your phone fully beforehand. Also, emergency phone calls are fine but streaming video or large downloads won’t work well inside.
What transport options are there late at night?
After closing, regular Metro trains won’t run (CDMX Metro stops around midnight). However, Centro does have routes of night buses and hired vans. In practice, most clubgoers use rideshares or taxis late-night. Uber, Didi, and local taxi colectivos run 24/7 around the Zócalo area. Keep in mind that roads near the Zócalo can be busy on weekend nights, so allow time for pickup or consider staying at a nearby hotel. Safety tip: always wait in well-lit areas outside the club when hailing your ride.
Didn’t Pasagüero used to be here?
Yes. The venue’s site has long been associated with the Pasagüero nightclub brand. When Motolinía 33 opened as a revamped event space, it essentially took over Pasagüero’s historic address on Motolinia Street . The new Motolinía 33 (sometimes still called Pasagüero by longtime patrons) continues that legacy with similar late-night music. So if someone says this place was Pasagüero, they are right – Motolinía 33 is the successor venue.
What is the capacity of the club?
The exact capacity isn’t published, but it’s fairly small and intimate. Reports from recent events imply on the order of 100–150 people. For instance, a news blurb noted a concert was limited to “100 personas” . This suggests Motolinía 33 holds a few dozen to a couple hundred people total. Given fire-code and comfort, you should expect it to fill up at a few hundred max, so get there early for popular shows.
Who runs or owns Motolinia 33?
Motolinía 33 is operated by local entertainment promoters, particularly those involved with Mexico City’s techno scene. Alejandro Franco (founder of CommonSense Records and Techno Friday Nacht) is closely connected; many “MENTAL” events hosting Luke Slater and others are produced by him at M33 . In short, it’s managed by the same community of DJs and producers who organize underground club nights in CDMX. There is no widely-public company website for the venue, so event promoters’ social media and listings are the best source of info on ownership and branding.
