MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Cuauhtemoc

Getting Around Cuauhtemoc

Cuauhtemoc Mexico City, Mexico Travel Guide

Public Transit Systems Overview

The public transportation system forms the backbone of city movement, featuring a variety of interconnected modes. Each system offers unique routes and covers specific areas, working together to move millions daily. From the subterranean Metro to the reserved lanes of the Metrobus, options for every journey exist.

The Tarjeta de Movilidad Integrada (Integrated Mobility Card) serves as the main and most convenient payment method, working across most systems. Purchase and recharge cards at Metro and Metrobus stations, and some convenience stores.

Transit Systems

  • Metro (Subway): 12 lines, efficient, very affordable.
  • Metrobus (BRT): 7 lines, dedicated lanes, useful for areas not covered by Metro.
  • RTP & Trolebús: Conventional bus and electric trolleybus systems for local routes.
  • Tren Ligero & Cablebús: Light rail to Xochimilco, and cable car system mainly in north.

Route Maps & Hubs

Metro and Metrobus maps are widely available. Cuauhtémoc hubs: Bellas Artes, Hidalgo, Insurgentes, Revolución, Zócalo.

Ticketing & Fares

The Tarjeta de Movilidad Integrada is essential. Fares: Metro (MXN 5), Metrobus (MXN 6), Tren Ligero (MXN 3), Trolebús (MXN 4), Cablebús (MXN 7).

Hours & Frequency

Metro: Mon-Fri 5 AM-Midnight, Sat 6 AM-Midnight, Sun 7 AM-Midnight. Metrobus: Generally 5 AM-Midnight. Peak hours are crowded (6-9 AM, 5-8 PM).

Accessibility & Navigation Tips

Accessibility Information
  • Metro: Newer stations improve with elevators/ramps; older ones may be challenging.
  • Metrobus: All units are designed to be accessible, with ramps and designated spaces.
  • Overall accessibility is improving but can still pose challenges for mobility-impaired travelers.
Efficient Navigation
  • Avoid peak hours (6-9 AM, 5-8 PM) to escape crowds.
  • Use Google Maps or Moovit for route planning; download offline maps.
  • Acquire and load credit onto a Tarjeta de Movilidad Integrada upon arrival.

Practical Public Transport Tips

Secure Valuables

Keep bags in front, wallets in front pockets to prevent pickpocketing.

Women-Only Cars

Respect designated women-only cars on the Underground during peak hours.

Know Your Destination

Clearly identify your destination station and line number/color.

Car Rental for Day Trips

For excursions outside CDMX, compare deals on DiscoverCars.com.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer convenient alternatives to public transport, especially for direct routes or late-night travel.

Licensed Taxi Information

  • Sitio Taxis: Operate from designated stands (Sitios). Safer and slightly more expensive.
  • Libre Taxis (Street Taxis): Green-and-white or pink-and-white cars. Exercise caution; risk of inflated fares.
  • Fares: Determined by meter (Taxímetro) or agreed upon. Cash (MXN) is standard.
  • Airport Taxis: Pre-paid, authorized taxis from kiosks inside MEX airport terminals are safest for transfers.

Ride-Sharing Apps & Safety

  • Apps: Uber, Didi, and Cabify are widely used and reliable in Mexico City.
  • Prices & Payment: Fares displayed in-app; payment via app (credit card/PayPal) or cash.
  • Safety: Ride-sharing apps offer the safest option due to tracking, vetting, and transparent pricing.
  • Always confirm the license plate and driver photo match ahead of entering the vehicle.

Emergency & General Safety

  • Emergency: Dial 911 for all emergencies.
  • Street-Hailed Taxis: Highest risk. Avoid them if possible; if used, ensure it's official and travel with a companion.
  • Bus Terminal Taxis: Use authorized stands or ride-sharing apps for safe onward travel.
  • Airport Taxis: From MEX Airport, use authorized kiosks or ride-sharing apps vian assigned pick-up zones.
  • Avoid: Do not accept rides from unofficial solicitors at the airport.
  • Ride-sharing apps significantly enhance safety and transparency for riders.

Affiliate Travel Tools

Car Rentals

For greater flexibility for day trips outside the city, compare car rental deals via DiscoverCars.com.

Travel Insurance

For peace of mind during your travels, consider coverage from SafetyWing, designed for modern travelers.

Anti-Theft Gear

Keep your belongings safe with anti-theft bags and products from Pacsafe.

Rental Options

While public transport and ride-sharing are popular, rental options provide flexibility for specific needs or excursions outside the city.

Car Rental Information

  • Procedures: Book in advance. Compare deals at DiscoverCars.com.
  • Requirements: Valid driver's license (IDP useful), major credit card (deposit), min age (21/25).
  • Major Companies: Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, Alamo, National, Sixt (at MEX airport and city locations).
  • Considerations: Driving in CDMX is challenging. Subject to "Hoy No Circula" program. Comprehensive insurance essential.

Bicycle Sharing & Other Rentals

  • Ecobici: Mexico City’s public bike-sharing system. Many stations in Cuauhtémoc, Roma, Condesa.
  • Membership: Short-term passes (1, 3, or 7 days) available for tourists with credit card and ID.
  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Not as common for visitors in CDMX due to heavy traffic; generally a risky option.
  • Specialty Vehicles: No tuk-tuks or jeepneys. City uses public transport and ride-sharing.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Driving Laws

Right-hand traffic. Seatbelts mandatory. No cell phone use while driving. Speed limits posted.

Be aware of local traffic rules.

Road Conditions

Main avenues generally good. Side streets can are potholed. Heavy traffic is constant in CDMX.

Stay alert for changing road surfaces.

Parking Information

Difficult and expensive in central areas. Metered street parking (Parquímetros) or costly underground garages.

Consider parking alternatives.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas
  • Roma Norte, Condesa: Tree-lined streets, Art Deco architecture, parks, cafes. Excellent for leisurely walks.
  • Centro Histórico: Many pedestrianized streets (e.g., Madero Street) leading to major landmarks.
  • Paseo de la Reforma: Grand avenue with wide sidewalks for walks past monuments.
Walking Tours & Cycling Safety
  • Guided Tours: Free tip-based tours and settled the bill historical/culinary/art tours are popular.
  • Self-Guided Tours: Easily done with maps, travel guides, or dedicated walking tour apps.
  • Cycling: Dedicated bike lanes (Ciclovías). Ecobici system for rentals. Wear a Helmet for safety.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists

  • Higher Crime Rate Neighborhoods: Parts of Doctores, Guerrero, and Tepito are not recommended.
  • After Dark: Avoid these areas, particularly after dark or without a local guide.
  • High-Traffic Avenues: Avoid walking or cycling on avenues without dedicated infrastructure due to danger.
  • Always prioritize your safety and heed local advice regarding specific areas.
  • Traffic can be dense and aggressive, posing risks to pedestrians and cyclists in unsafe zones.
  • Stick to well-trafficked and tourist-friendly areas for walking and cycling.
  • Consider joining group tours for safer exploring in less familiar parts of the city.
  • Local insights on safe routes are always beneficial.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, Mexico City offers specialized transportation for tourists.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

  • Turibus: Popular hop-on-hop-off service covering major attractions in Cuauhtémoc and other regions. Multi-day passes available.
  • Capital Bus: A comparable hop-on-hop-off service that provides another option for sightseeing.
  • Boat Taxis/Water Transport: Not applicable to Cuauhtémoc. Xochimilco has Trajineras, but that is outside the borough.
  • These services are designed for tourist convenience and city overview.

Cable Cars & Accessibility

  • Cablebús: Serves areas outside central Cuauhtémoc, connecting to the Metro network. Not direct tourist transport within the borough.
  • Accessibility Services: Limited but improving. Wheelchair-friendly cabs can often be booked. Some tour operators offer specialized accessible tours.
  • Public transport can still pose challenges for travelers with mobility impairments.
  • Always inquire in advance about specific accessibility options for attractions and transport.

Turibus

Provides thorough routes covering landmarks and neighborhoods within and beyond Cuauhtémoc.

Capital Bus

Another hop-on-hop-off option for flexible sightseeing, reaching various city landmarks.

Cablebús Views

While not in central Cuauhtémoc, it offers unique city views and connects to the Metro network for extended exploration.

Affiliate Travel Planning

Car Rental for Flexibility
  • For day trips outside Mexico City, consider renting a car.
  • Compare prices and book with DiscoverCars.com.
  • This can offer convenience for exploring regions beyond public transport routes.
Book Your Stay
  • Arrange accommodations that meet your accessibility and location needs.
  • Search for hotels or vacation rentals in accessible neighborhoods.
  • Check ratings to find options with good accessibility features.

Final Transit Tip

Utilize the Tarjeta de Movilidad Integrada for almost all public transport, making your journeys smooth and efficient.

Consider ride-sharing for direct and late-night travel for added convenience and safety.

← Previous
How to Get to Cuauhtemoc
← Back to Cuauhtemoc
Next →
Where to Stay in Cuauhtemoc

Next Up: Where to Stay in Cuauhtemoc. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation

Continue to Where to Stay in Cuauhtemoc