Mexico City Travel Guide

Mexico City is known for its history dating back to pre-Columbian times and for its combination of historic and contemporary culture. Major attractions include the National Museum of Anthropology, Palacio de Bellas Artes, Templo Mayor and nearby Teotihuacan.

The city is also celebrated for its cuisine, ranging from street-food tacos and market dishes to internationally recognized restaurants.

Benito Juárez International Airport is connected with the city by Metrobús Line 4. Authorized taxis can be booked through kiosks inside the terminals, and app-based transportation services also operate in the city.

Mexico City’s public transportation network includes the Metro, Metrobús, RTP buses and trolleybuses. The Metro covers much of the city through 12 lines, while Metrobús operates in dedicated lanes along major routes.

Travelers can use taxi stands or app-based transportation. The existing Mexico City guide recommends ride-hailing applications because they provide trip tracking and estimated fares.

Mexico City is enormous, but individual districts such as the Historic Center, Polanco, Condesa and Roma are highly walkable and contain many attractions within relatively compact areas.

Mexico City operates the Ecobici public bike-sharing system and has dedicated bicycle lanes in several central districts. Cycling is particularly popular around Chapultepec and Paseo de la Reforma.

Popular attractions such as the Frida Kahlo Museum and excursions to Teotihuacan can require advance planning, particularly during busy travel periods. Checking current visitor information and purchasing timed tickets when available can help avoid long waits.

As in any very large city, conditions vary by neighborhood. Travelers should remain in well-traveled areas, protect personal belongings in crowded places and use additional caution in unfamiliar areas after dark.

Mexico City’s reusable transportation card can be used across several public transportation systems, reducing the need to purchase individual tickets and making transfers between services more convenient.

Mexican pesos are the preferred currency. Some businesses serving international visitors may accept U.S. dollars, but exchange rates may be less favorable.

The existing guide notes that tipping is customary in restaurants and for personal services, commonly around 10–15 percent.

English is commonly encountered in major hotels and tourism-oriented areas, although proficiency varies outside the principal visitor districts. Basic Spanish phrases can be useful in restaurants, shops and transportation.

Lunch is commonly eaten later than in the United States, often during the mid-afternoon, while dinner may begin around 8 p.m. or later. Restaurants in major visitor districts generally operate throughout much of the day.

Supermarkets, pharmacies and convenience stores are widely available throughout Mexico City, making basic travel necessities easy to purchase.

Polanco, particularly Avenida Presidente Masaryk, is known for high-end shopping. Roma and Condesa offer boutiques and local products, while La Ciudadela is well known for traditional Mexican crafts.

Wheelchairs may be available through medical-supply companies, hospitals and some visitor attractions. Travelers who require mobility equipment should arrange it in advance through their hotel or travel provider whenever possible.

Dial 911 for emergencies in Mexico City. LOCATEL provides non-emergency information and assistance at 55 5658 1111.

International visitors should also keep the contact information for their embassy or consulate available.