MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Tijuana

How to Get to Tijuana

Tijuana Baja California, Mexico Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Tijuana is served by an unique international airport, with another major airport nearby across the U.S. Border.

Air Hubs

  • Tijuana International Airport (TIJ): General Abelardo L. Rodríguez International Airport.
  • San Diego International Airport (SAN): Many travelers fly into SAN and then cross the border into Tijuana.
  • Airlines to TIJ: VivaAerobus, Volaris, Aeroméxico (mainly domestic Mexico flights).

Cross Border Xpress CBX & Transfers

TIJ's unique CBX bridge offers a direct pedestrian connection to the U.S. Side.

Seamless Border Crossing

  • CBX: Direct access from U.S. (San Diego) to TIJ terminal for flight ticket holders.
  • Transfers from TIJ: Taxis (official airport taxis), ride-sharing apps (Uber, Didi), local buses.
  • Transfers from SAN to Tijuana: Taxis, ride-sharing to San Ysidro border, then walk across; pre-booked shuttles.

Seasonal Fluctuations

Prices to TIJ vary with Mexican holidays; SAN flights follow North American travel seasonality. Book early for better prices.

Affiliate Flight Tools

Check Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for flight deals and comparisons.

Airport Facilities

Both TIJ and SAN offer standard facilities, dining, shopping, car rentals, and currency exchange.

Direct Flight Availability

To Tijuana International Airport TIJ

  • Mainly from Mexican cities: Mexico City, Guadalajara, Cancún.
  • Limited international passenger flights outside of Mexico.
  • Handles cargo flights, including to Shanghai, China.
  • Cross Border Xpress (CBX) provides unique access for U.S. Travelers.

To San Diego International Airport SAN

  • Direct flights from many major U.S. Cities.
  • Direct flights from Canadian hubs.
  • Some direct flights from European destinations.
  • Common choice for travelers planning to cross into Tijuana.

Airport Specifics

TIJ Facilities

Shops, restaurants, car rentals, currency exchange, and the unique CBX bridge.

SAN Facilities

Extensive facilities, diverse dining, shopping, and multiple ground transportation choices.

CBX Ticket Advisory

Purchase your CBX ticket online in advance to save time and money.

Land Transportation

Border Crossing Information

Land travel is common from the United States, especially via the San Ysidro Land Port of Entry.

San Ysidro Crossing

  • Busiest land border crossing in Western Hemisphere, operates 24/7.
  • Pedestrian Crossing: Follow signs for "Pedestrian East" or "Pedestrian West." Lines can be long.
  • Vehicle Crossing: Wait times vary significantly. SENTRI lanes expedite for pre-approved travelers.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Tijuana's Central Bus Station offers extensive services across Mexico.

Bus Companies & Routes

  • Major Companies: ABC, Greyhound Mexico (connects to U.S. cities), Primera Plus, Futura, Omnibus de México.
  • Frequent services to Ensenada, Rosarito, Mexicali, Guadalajara, Mexico City.
  • Buses offer a cost-effective way to travel within Mexico.

Self-Driving Requirements

Driving Essentials

  • Vehicle Permits: U.S./Canadian vehicles generally do not Need a temporary import permit (TIP) for Baja California ("Free Zone").
  • Insurance: U.S./Canadian auto insurance is not valid. Purchase separate Mexican auto insurance (Insubuy, 30 days cookie).
  • Road Conditions & Safety: Major highways are well-maintained. Inner-city roads vary. Drive defensively.

Driving Laws & Hazards

Be aware of local driving regulations and common road features.

Navigating Roads

  • Driving Laws: Speed limits in km/h. Right turn on red allowed unless prohibited. Seatbelt use is mandatory.
  • Speed Bumps (Topes): Numerous and often unmarked. Drive carefully.
  • Night Driving: Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar or rural areas.

Important Land Travel Warnings

  • Train services: No intercity passenger train services connect Tijuana to other major Mexican cities or the U.S.
  • Sea/River Arrivals: No significant sea or river arrival points directly into Tijuana for general tourism.
  • Cruise ships typically dock in Ensenada (1.5 hours south); land transport needed from there.
  • Border crossing wait times can be substantial, especially during evenings, weekends, and holidays.
  • Always confirm vehicle permit and insurance regulations before your trip.
  • Never leave valuables visible in a parked car.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Fees

Ensure a smooth departure by understanding the necessary steps and potential costs.

Departure Points

  • FMM Surrender: You must surrender the stamped portion of your FMM (tourist card) upon departure.
  • Airport Departure Tax: Usually included in the airline ticket price for flights out of TIJ. Confirm with your airline.
  • Lost FMM: If lost, you may face a fine or a fee to obtain a new one before departure.

Timing & Facilities

Allow sufficient time for departure procedures, especially at the border.

Departure Logistics

  • Airport (TIJ): Arrive 2-3 hours before domestic flights, 3-4 hours before international flights.
  • Land Border (into U.S.): Pedestrian wait times can be 30 minutes to over 4 hours. Check CBP wait times online.
  • Vehicle Crossing: Can have long wait times. Utilize SENTRI or Ready Lane for expedited process.

Airport Amenities

TIJ offers standard departure facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges.

Bus Station

The Central Bus Station provides basic waiting areas, food stalls, and restrooms for bus travelers.

Check Wait Times

For land border crossings into the U.S., check the CBP Border Wait Times app or website for real-time estimates.

Affiliate Travel Resources

Visa & Insurance

Streamline your travel preparations with reliable services.

Recommended Services

  • IVisa: Consumer visa application service.
  • VisaHQ: Direct visa and passport service website.
  • World Nomads: Travel insurance for adventurous travelers.

Health & Air Travel

Stay healthy and find the best flight options.

Travel Solutions

Connectivity & Gear

VPN Services

Secure your online activity with NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Travel Bags

Find modern travel bags and accessories at Nordace.

Electronics

Explore cameras and electronics at B&H Photo.

Resource Integration

These affiliate resources offer additional support for various aspects of your trip planning.