How to Get to Mexico City. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airports Serving Mexico City

Mexico City has two main airports for passenger traffic.

Airport Details

Mexico City International Airport (MEX): Main hub, east of the urban area center.
Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU): Newer, 48 km north, serves domestic/some international.
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Airlines & Routes

Multiple airlines connect Mexico City globally and domestically.

Route Information

Domestic: Aeromexico, Volaris, VivaAerobus.
International: Major carriers from North America, Europe, Latin America fly into MEX.
High season (Dec-Feb, Jul-Aug, holidays): Higher prices, less availability. Book well in advance.

MEX Facilities

MEX offers two terminals (T1, T2) with shops, restaurants, lounges, currency exchange, ATMs, car rentals, and Wi-Fi.

NLU Facilities

NLU has newer facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental services, and Wi-Fi.

MEX Transfers

Authorized taxis, ride-sharing apps (Uber, Didi), Metro, Metrobus, or pre-booked private transfers.

NLU Transfer Options

Available Services

Authorized taxis and ride-sharing apps.
Direct bus services connect NLU to various points in Mexico City.
Tren Suburbano connects to Lechería station (transfer to bus required).
For car rentals, check DiscoverCars.com.

Transfer Considerations

Book private transfers in advance for ease.
Metro not recommended with significant luggage from MEX.
Metro/Metrobus require a Mobility Card.
Direct NLU train connection is under construction.

Land Transportation

Bus Network

Mexico offers an extensive and efficient bus network. Connects Mexico City to almost all major cities. Buses are comfortable, reliable, ranging from executive to economy.

Major Bus Terminals

TAPO (East), Terminal Norte (North/Central), Terminal Sur (South), Terminal Poniente (West). Major companies: ADO, ETN, Primera Plus.

Self-Driving Not Advised

Driving within Mexico City is not recommended for tourists due to traffic, complex streets, and limited parking. For day trips, a valid driver's license is sufficient; Mexican liability insurance is mandatory.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

Most international airfare includes Mexico's Tourist Tax (DNI) and The airport Departure Tax (TUA).

Confirmation

Confirm inclusion with your airline or travel agent.
For land departures, the DNI fee may require payment at the border if not already paid.
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Departure Procedures

Ensure a smooth exit from Mexico City with proper timing and procedures.

Timing & Check-in

International flights: Arrive at MEX at least 3 hours before departure.
Domestic flights: Arrive at MEX at least 2 hours before departure.
Online check-in-in is recommended.

Airport Facilities

MEX Airport offers a wide range of services for departing travelers.

Available Amenities

Restaurants and cafes.
Duty-free shops.
Currency exchange and ATMs.

Bus Terminal Facilities

Bus terminals also cater to departing passengers.

Terminal Services

Food plazas.
Shops.
Restrooms and waiting areas.

Important Departure Reminders

Security lines can be long at peak times.
Ensure you return the leaving portion of your FMM card to the airline or immigration.
Confirm airport transfer arrangements well in advance.

Check airline specific baggage allowances and limitations.
Keep any necessary travel documents readily accessible.
Allow extra time for unforeseen delays.

City Transportation

Public Transit

Mexico City boasts an extensive and integrated public transport system.

System Overview

Metro (Subway): Efficient, cheap, covers major attractions. Crowded during rush hours.
Metrobus (BRT): Articulated buses on dedicated lanes, faster travel.
Cablebús (Gondola Lift): Modern system for hilly areas, scenic views.

Fares & Accessibility

Easy payment and improving accessibility mark the public transit system.

Ticketing & Access

Integrated Mobility Card: Single rechargeable card for all major systems (15 MXN card cost).
Fares: Metro (5 MXN), Metrobus (6 MXN), Cablebús (7 MXN).
Accessibility: Newer stations/lines (Metro) and Metrobus/Cablebús include elevators/ramps. Older depots are with limited access.

Operating Hours

Metro: Weekdays 5 AM-Midnight, Sat 6 AM-Midnight, Sun/Holidays 7 AM-Midnight. Metrobus: Generally 4:30 AM-Midnight daily.

Travel Tips

Avoid rush hours for Metro (7-10 AM, 5-8 PM). Use women-only cars during peak hours. Hold bags in front to deter pickpockets. Download offline maps.

Other Transit

Tren Ligero (Light Rail) to Xochimilco. Trolleybus. RTP (regular buses). "Peseros" (minibuses), use with caution.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services

Understand the different taxi types and hailing practices.

Identification & Fares

Licensed Taxis (Sitio taxis, Radio Taxis): Registered, designated stands, often pink/white or green/white.
Driver ID card ("tarjetón") is visible. Safer options.
Sitio taxi fares are metered. Cash is standard.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Ride-transport apps offer convenient and open travel.

Apps & Safety Measures

Recommended apps: Uber, Didi, Cabify.
Generally the safest option due to tracking, driver ratings, payment without cashs.
Always confirm license plate and driver photo before going inside the vehicle.

Taxi Arrangements & Safety

Airport Taxis

Purchase tickets for authorized taxis at booths inside MEX terminal. Do not use drivers soliciting customers outside.

Bus Terminal Taxis

Authorized taxi stands typically exist inside or just outside terminals.

Street Taxi Caution

Avoid street-hailed taxis. They are less regulated and carry a higher risk of overcharging or unsafe situations.

Navigation Tip

Download offline maps and public transport apps, like Moovit, for route planning before you start your journey.

How to Get to Mexico City