Teotihuacan North Of Mexico City, Mexico Travel Guide
Teotihuacan has no dedicated airport. The nearest major international gateway is Mexico City International Airport (MEX), officially Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez. This is Mexico's busiest airport and a major hub for flights across the Americas and beyond. MEX serves a vast network of international and domestic airlines.
Flight prices to Mexico City vary significantly throughout the year. Peak tourist seasons (winter holidays, spring break, summer months, major Mexican holidays) see higher prices. Better deals often appear during shoulder seasons (late April-May, September-November, excluding holidays). Booking international flights well in advance, especially for peak periods, is a good strategy. Flight comparison websites help monitor prices. Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner are resources.
Mexico City International Airport (MEX) is the main access point. It is a major hub with global and domestic connections.
Flight prices fluctuate seasonally, with higher costs during peak tourist times. Booking early is a good practice.
Various reliable options are available for transfers from MEX to Mexico City center, including authorized taxis, ride-sharing, and public transport.
Mexico City International Airport (MEX) is a modern airport with two terminals (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2) connected by an Aerotrén (monorail).
Numerous currency exchange booths and ATMs are present. Free Wi-Fi is generally available throughout the airport.
Information desks assist with directions, transportation, and general inquiries. Various airline lounges and independent lounges are present.
Buses are a common and budget-friendly way to reach Teotihuacan from Mexico City. Buses depart from Mexico City's Terminal Central del Norte (North Bus Terminal). This large bus station is accessible by Metro (Line 5, "Autobuses del Norte" station) and ride-sharing apps. The bus company typically serving this route is "Autobuses Teotihuacanos" or similar names specializing in the Teotihuacan route. Their ticket counter is usually at the far end of the terminal.
Renting a car offers flexibility. Car rental agencies are at Mexico City International Airport and various city locations. A valid driver's license from your home country is needed. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-Spanish or English licenses; while not always required, it serves as a useful translation of your license. Comprehensive insurance is advisable, ideally from the rental company, with liability coverage. Your personal car insurance or credit card insurance may not provide adequate coverage. DiscoverCars.com is a resource for car rentals.
Buses drop passengers at one of the entrance gates to the archaeological site, usually Gate 1 or Gate 2. Confirmation with the driver or conductor regarding the stop is advisable. Purchase your round-trip ticket upon arrival at the bus station for simplified return travel. This high frequency means a short wait.
Mexico's toll highways are generally in good condition. They are the safest option for intercity travel. Roads within towns and rural areas vary in quality. Awareness for potholes, speed bumps (topes), and pedestrians or animals on the road is advisable. Driving outside of major cities at night, especially on unlit roads, should be avoided due to potential hazards. While the route to Teotihuacan is commonly traveled and generally secure, defensive driving is a good practice. Car doors should be locked and windows up in traffic.
For international flights departing Mexico, an Airport Departure Tax, sometimes called the Derecho de No Inmigrante (DNR), is typically included in your airline ticket price. Most major airlines automatically incorporate this fee into the fare. You usually do not need to pay it separately at the airport. Confirmation with your airline when booking or checking in is advisable to confirm inclusion. If a deeply discounted fare or certain ticket types were purchased, the tax may not be included, requiring payment at the airport before checking in. For land departures, different regulations apply, but this is less common for tourists.
Mexico City International Airport offers a full range of facilities. Extensive options for meals, snacks, and last-minute souvenir shopping are available in both terminals, both before and after security. Various airline and independent lounges provide comfortable waiting areas, Wi-Fi, and refreshments. Currency exchange and ATMs are present if you need to convert remaining Pesos or withdraw cash. Airport exchange rates are generally less favorable. Clean restrooms and designated family facilities are available throughout the terminals. Free Wi-Fi is generally available throughout the airport.
Have all your documents, especially your FMM card, ready for departure. This smooths the process.
Allow ample time for airport procedures, notably at Mexico City International Airport, a busy hub.
For onward bus travel within Mexico, arrive 30-45 minutes before departure to find your gate and board.
It offers flexibility, especially for exploring areas beyond direct bus routes.
Toll roads are generally well-maintained and safer for intercity travel. Local roads may have varying conditions. Awareness of speed bumps and general road safety is advisable.
Metrobus, a Bus Rapid Transit system, connects the airport to various parts of the city. A rechargeable Metrocard is used.
Metro Line 5 connects Terminal 1 (Terminal Aérea station) to the Mexico City Metro system, an economical option.
Some hotels in Mexico City offer shuttle services to and from the airport, a convenient pre-arranged option.
Consider bus for economy to Teotihuacan, or car rental for flexibility. Plan airport arrival times carefully.
