🇲🇽 Getting Around Mexico City — Transport & Travel Guide

To get around in Mexico City, you can use a variety of transportation options including the metro, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing apps, as well as drive or take domestic flights to explore the surrounding areas.

Getting There

Mexico City is a major transportation hub, and the best way to get there is by flying into Benito Juárez International Airport, which is located about 6 miles east of the city center. The airport is a major hub for several airlines, including Aeromexico, Interjet, and Volaris, and offers direct flights to many destinations in the United States, Canada, Central and South America, Europe, and Asia. Alternatively, you can also take a bus or drive to Mexico City from other parts of Mexico or from the US-Mexico border.

If you're coming from within Mexico, you can take a bus or drive to Mexico City from other major cities like Guadalajara, Monterrey, or Puebla. The city is also connected to the US-Mexico border by several highways, including Highway 57 and Highway 45, which make it easy to drive to Mexico City from cities like El Paso, Texas, or Tucson, Arizona. Additionally, there are several bus companies that offer cross-border bus services from the US to Mexico City, including Greyhound and Turimex.

Domestic Flights

Mexico has an extensive domestic air network, with several airlines offering flights to many destinations throughout the country. The main domestic airlines in Mexico are Aeromexico, Interjet, and Volaris, which offer flights to most major cities, including Cancun, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. You can book domestic flights online or through a travel agency, and prices vary depending on the route and time of year. A one-way ticket from Mexico City to Cancun, for example, can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 USD, depending on the airline and time of booking.

It's a good idea to book domestic flights in advance, especially during peak travel seasons like summer and holidays. You can also use online travel agencies like Expedia or Kayak to compare prices and find the best deals. Additionally, some airlines offer discounts or promotions for students, seniors, or military personnel, so it's worth checking the airline's website for any available discounts.

Trains & Rail

Mexico's rail network is limited, with only a few passenger train routes available. The most notable train route is the Tequila Express, which runs from Guadalajara to Tequila, and offers a scenic ride through the countryside. There are also a few commuter train routes in Mexico City, including the Tren Suburbano, which connects the city center to the surrounding suburbs. However, for most domestic travel, buses or flights are a more convenient and efficient option.

If you do want to take the train, you can book tickets online or at the train station. The train network is operated by Ferromex, which offers passenger services on several routes, including the Tequila Express. However, the train network is not as extensive as in other countries, and buses or flights are often a better option for long-distance travel.

Buses & Coaches

Mexico has an extensive network of bus routes, with several companies offering services to most major cities. The main bus companies in Mexico are Estrella de Oro, Primera Plus, and ADO, which offer a range of services, from budget-friendly to luxury. Bus travel is a convenient and affordable way to get around, with prices starting from around $20 USD for a one-way ticket from Mexico City to nearby cities like Puebla or Queretaro.

Bus travel is also a good option for longer distances, with many companies offering overnight buses with reclining seats and onboard amenities like food and drink service. You can book bus tickets online or at the bus station, and it's a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Some bus companies also offer discounts or promotions, so it's worth checking the company's website for any available deals.

City Transport

Driving

• To drive in Mexico, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country or an international driving permit.
• Road conditions in Mexico vary, with some highways and city streets in good condition, while others can be rough or congested.
• Fuel costs in Mexico are generally lower than in the US, with gasoline prices starting from around $2.50 USD per gallon.
• If you plan to rent a car, be sure to research and choose a reputable company, and always read the fine print before signing a contract.
• Be aware of potential hazards like potholes, speed bumps, and aggressive drivers, and always drive defensively.
• It's also a good idea to have a GPS or map, as well as a basic knowledge of Spanish, to help you navigate the roads and communicate with locals.

Transport Tips

• Be sure to use a licensed taxi or ride-hailing service, and always agree on the fare before you start.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and use a credit or debit card to pay for transportation whenever possible.
• Download a transportation app like Moovit or Rome2rio to help you navigate the city's transportation system.
• Be aware of potential scams, like taxi drivers who try to take you on a longer route to increase the fare.
• Consider purchasing a Tarjeta de Crédito or Tarjeta de Débito for public transportation, which can be refilled and reused.
• Always keep your valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like bus stations or tourist hotspots.
• Learn some basic Spanish phrases, like "¿Cuánto cuesta?" (how much does it cost?) or "¿Dónde está...?" (where is...?), to help you communicate with locals and navigate the transportation system.