How to Get to Queretaro. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Airport Options & Services

Querétaro International QRO

Located approximately 22 km (14 miles) southeast of Querétaro City. This is the main airport for the region.

QRO Overview

Offers domestic and limited international flights.
Domestic airlines: Aeroméxico, VivaAerobus, Volaris to major Mexican cities.
International: Limited direct flights to US cities (Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston).

Mexico City International MEX

A major international hub, approximately 3 hours drive from Querétaro City.

MEX Overview

Many international travelers fly into MEX due to more direct global flight options.
Travelers then connect to Querétaro by comfortable long-distance bus.
Vast array of international airlines from around the world.

QRO Facilities

Car rental agencies, authorized taxi services, ride-sharing pick-up points, ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes.

QRO Transfers

Authorized airport taxis (pre-paid), ride-sharing (Uber/DiDi), hotel shuttles. Public bus options are limited.

MEX Connections

Direct bus service from MEX (Primera Plus, ETN) to Querétaro's Central de Autobuses is the most common and comfortable option (2.5-3 hours).

Seasonal Flight Pricing

Price Increases

Flight prices go up during peak tourist seasons.
Peak seasons: October-November, March-May.
Major holidays (Christmas, Easter, Mexican Independence Day in September) also raise costs.

Booking Advice

Book flights well in advance for peak travel periods.
Consider traveling during shoulder or low seasons for better deals.
Utilize flight comparison websites for best prices.
Monitor price trends and set up alerts for desired routes.

Flight Booking Resources

Dollar Flight Club

Find flight deals and alerts for various destinations. Visit Dollar Flight Club

Skyscanner

Compare flight prices from various airlines and travel agencies. Explore flights on Skyscanner

AirHelp

Seek compensation for delayed or canceled flights. Claim compensation with AirHelp

Land Travel: Buses & Driving

Intercity Bus Network

Mexico boasts a highly developed and comfortable long-distance bus network. This is the main mode of inter-city transport for both locals and tourists.

Major Bus Companies

Primera Plus: High-quality, comfortable, direct services.
ETN: Luxury service with very comfortable seating and more space.
Other reputable companies: Omnibus de México, ADO (limited routes to Querétaro).

Bus Terminal & Routes

The Central de Autobuses de Querétaro is well-organized and serves as the main hub.

Information

Purchase tickets at company counters for straightforward transactions.
Frequent services to major cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato.
Buses are modern and include amenities like air conditioning and restrooms.

Car Rental Essentials

Consider renting a vehicle for more flexibility in exploring Querétaro and its surrounding regions.

Requirements for Renting

Valid national driver's license (US, Canadian, European generally accepted).
Major credit card in the driver's name.
Mexican auto insurance is mandatory; foreign policies usually not valid.

Road Conditions & Safety

Querétaro is well-connected by modern toll highways. These are generally safe and in good condition.

Driving Considerations

Major highways (toll roads) are excellent and well-maintained.
Rural roads can be slower, less maintained, and potentially less safe.
Be aware of speed bumps (Topes), which can be unmarked.

Important Driving Notes

Avoid driving at night, especially on lesser-traveled roads.
Driving culture can be aggressive; defensive driving is advised.
Using a cell phone while driving is prohibited unless hands-free.

Fuel stations include Pemex and various private brands.
Tolls can be significant; carry cash (pesos) in small denominations.
Stick to main toll roads for increased safety.

Departure Information

Airport Departure

Prepare for your departure from Querétaro International Airport (QRO).

Timing & Fees

Arrive 2 hours prior to domestic flights, 3 hours for international.
This allows sufficient time for check-in, security, and immigration.
Mexican tourism tax (DNI) typically included in international airline tickets.

Bus Departure

Prepare for your departure from Querétaro's Central de Autobuses.

Timing & Facilities

Arrive 30-45 minutes before your bus departure.
Time to check in luggage if needed and board comfortably.
Platforms are clearly marked for easy navigation.

Airport Amenities

QRO offers shops for last-minute souvenirs, restaurants, cafes, and duty-free shopping. Lounges may be available.

Bus Terminal Amenities

The main bus terminal has food courts, convenience stores (OXXO), waiting areas, restrooms, and luggage storage facilities.

Financial Reminders

Confirm if your tourism tax is included in your airline ticket. If not, be ready to pay it at the airport. Keep your FMM form ready for collection.

Final Tip for Departure

Keep your FMM form safe, as immigration officers collect it when you leave. Losing it creates a fine and can cause delays upon departure.

How to Get to Queretaro