Traveling around Mexico always lets you discover the cultural, scenic, and culinary diversity. Whether you plan to go through cities, beaches, magical towns, or just to the archaeological zones, there are lots of ways to get moving depending on your budget, preferences, and the places you want to see.
In big cities, you may well see traffic, but that makes learning the transit system that much more fun. But between cities and vacation destinations, you may just see some of the best of Mexico in ease and safety.
Some of the biggest and most important airports in Mexico City are well served on international routes, and an increasing number of smaller markets are welcoming Mexicana flights even today.
Most mid-sized cities in Mexico are served by domestic flights at a regional airport. But many smaller resort communities are also served by smaller airports that may only receive one or two inbound flights per day. Especially for international travelers, these will offer seasonal and charter flights you might not otherwise hear about.
All airports provide safe transfer options. These can include:
Authorized cabs (pay for the ride at official modules inside the airport).
App-based transportation services like Uber, Didi, Cabify or Beat are available in many cities.
Intercity bus service, with integrated or nearby terminals.
Some airports are also connected to local transport networks via Metro, light rail or city bus systems.
Avoid any unauthorized cabs outside of any airport terminals.
Big cities have varied and growing public transportation systems:
Metro (CDMX and Monterrey): fast, inexpensive and with wide coverage.
Metrobus, Macrobús or Mexibús: exclusive corridors in CDMX, Guadalajara, Toluca, etc.
Bus and minibus routes: operate in almost all cities.
Light rail and cable bus: additional options in CDMX and metropolitan areas.
Public bicycles (such as Ecobici, Mibici, etc.): an environmentally friendly way to get around in some areas.
Many cities have transportation smart cards that allow for transport payment without cash. For example:
CDMX: Tarjeta de Movilidad Integrada (Integrated Mobility Card)
Guadalajara: My Mobility
Monterrey: Feria
Toluca: Movimex
These cards are rechargeable and are accepted in metro, buses, metrobus, and other local transport services.
Platforms like Uber, Didi, Cabify or InDriver operate in most major cities and tourist destinations. They are a safe and practical alternative, especially if you do not know the city well.
You can also use traditional cabs, but we recommend you request them from official sites, hotels, or bus stations, and avoid boarding on public roads if you are not sure of their authenticity.
If you plan to visit several states or tour rural areas, renting a car may be ideal. Keep in mind the following:
Foreign drivers license is valid in Mexico, and most car rental agencies will accept them
Respect the signs and speed limits
Some cities have traffic restrictions, such as the "Hoy No Circula" program (in CDMX, Puebla, Toluca) and these may affect your ability to drive on certain days of the week.
Federal highways will require the payment of tolls.
Navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze may help you to avoid heavy traffic or detours
Mexico has one of the most extensive bus networks in Latin America. For travelers from the United States the level of service is often surprising. Services range from budget providers running between two under served locations on up to larger companies with extensive networks, and they can often provide the most comfortable experiences:
ADO (Central, Gulf, Southeast).
ETN and Primera Plus (Centro, Occidente, Bajío)
OCC, Futura, Estrella Blanca, TAP, etc.
Many of the larger bus lines will offer first class, executive, and economy services, depending on your budget.
Bus terminals are usually well connected with cabs, subways and city buses. But don\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'t be surprised if, on less busy routes, buses will offer passengers the opportunity to disembark at smaller and intermediate points.
Passenger rail is a priority for the Mexico government and a joy for travelers on mid-length and longer routes. Trains are increasingly an option. Some of the most important train lines include:
It remains important to learn as much as you can about transportation options in every city you plan to visit. Apps like Moovit or Rome2Rio can help you to plan your routes
Carry cash for payments on local routes.
If your Spanish is not up to scratch, most transit centers where international visitors are likely to travel will offer at least some signage in English.
Prioritize your safety no matter where you go, especially at night and in remote areas.
