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Home » North America » Mexico City

Is Mexico City Safe for Travel? (TOP Safety Tips 2024)

After 3 trips and more than 12 months today travelling around this glorious country, I was finally convinced to go to Mexico City. To my great surprise, I stayed for one whole month. And as a self-proclaimed city-hater, I fell deeply in love with this magical place.

The reputation of Cuidad de México (or CDMX) as a ‘safe’ place isn’t a good one. Of course, like all major cities, it’s no stranger to crime. 

Combine that with the occasional natural disaster and a huge population, you’re probably asking “Is Mexico city safe?” or “How dangerous is Mexico City?” You may also be wondering, is it even worth visiting? 

Mexico City is an amazing assault on the senses. Bustling, beautiful, and bold, the Mexican capital has astonishing experiences waiting for travellers. From Aztec ruins and opulent palaces to a whole galaxy of tasty street food to try!

I want to assure you, staying safe in Mexico City is absolutely possible . Thousands of people are doing it right now. 

But some safety tips and street smarts will go a long way. From solo women travellers to the up-to-date travel advisory, here’s your one-stop shop guide on how safe is Mexico City.

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There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Mexico City Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Mexico City.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated April 2024

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Is Mexico City Safe to Visit Right Now?

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The short answer is yes , it is safe to visit Mexico City. However, I must also make it clear that you MUST be careful at all times.

There are certain things you need to be aware of while visiting Mexico City to ensure you have a safe trip. Mexico City recorded 4,204,414 international visitors by 2022 according to Gobierno de Mexico Tourism with majorly trouble-free visit.

The city’s historic centre, or Centro Historico , is an amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site, complete with a cathedral, palace, and the largest square in the Americas – the Zocalo. But just like Mexico’s safety , the city isn’t considered super safe. 

At least, I can’t send you there outright without mentioning some reasons for concern. The current Mexico travel advisory from the USA remains ‘ exercise increased caution ‘. This big, bustling city may be the economic centre of Mexico but… there are higher levels of petty crime and violent crime in Mexico City compared to other major cities.

Natural disasters also affect the city’s safety. Earthquakes are common and unpredictable in Mexico City.

But I want to put your mind at ease: despite its bad reputation, Mexico City sees millions of tourists every year. The vast majority of these visiting Mexico City do so completely safely. 

Gang-related violent crimes are rarely targeted at tourists and visitors. Plus, that happens in certain neighbourhoods of Mexico City that you probably won’t be visiting.

Mexico City also has one of the highest police officer-per-resident ratios in the world. So security is taken very seriously in touristy areas where violent crime is extremely rare.

Though, like most major cities, these areas are where petty theft will occur. Thieves are usually active around busy tourist areas.

It’s safe to visit Mexico City, but show caution as you go. So how do you do that? Let me take you into a little more detail.

Check out our detailed where to stay guide for Mexico City so you can start your trip right!

Safest Places in Mexico City

When travelling to a monster city like Mexico City, it is invaluable to know a little bit about the safe areas to stay in before you arrive. Beyond being much safer, certain areas are just much more fun and well-connected. 

Generally (and this rule applies to many areas of Mexico as a country), more tourists mean it’s safer. Well-lit tourist areas, with lots of police officers, mean lower crime rates. 

The following areas are also pretty safe to walk around at night too. Though if you are moving between areas, please don’t walk.

• Centro Historico – the city’s historic centre is home to several historic buildings and a veritable shit ton of museums, this is where the city was first founded. While wandering the pedestrian-only streets, violent crime is extremely rare – though pickpockets and petty crime are still rife. 
• Coyoacán – the more chill and open barrio of Mexico City and once home to Frida Kahlo, this neighbourhood is very visitor-friendly. 
• Roma Norte – the centre of art and quirky culture in Mexico City, Roma Norte has a unique feel. There are a plethora of bars, restaurants, and cafes to wander between but it is full of bloody hipsters because it’s the coolest place to stay in Mexico City.
• La Condensa – with wide avenues and well-maintained European-style buildings, this neighbourhood attracts many young professionals and travellers. It also has a thriving nightlife scene.

Dangerous Places in Mexico City

Now to the “not-so-nice” areas that you should avoid while in Mexico City. Some people may refer to them as the “ dangerous areas of Mexico City ” and they wouldn’t necessarily be wrong. There’s very little reason for you to go to these non-tourist areas anyway, but it’s always good to have a rough idea.

I recommend the following as places to avoid in Mexico City:

• ANYWHERE at night: I can’t stress this enough. As mentioned above, there are some select places that are okay to be in at night. But if you’re moving between places, absolutely exercise increased caution with public transportation. Or, just get an Uber. Ask your accommodation about the local area, like if it’s okay to walk back from the closest Metro station for example. 
• Iztapalapa: Especially if you’re a female traveller (but I’m absolutely discouraging any other sexes too), avoid this area completely. Most rapes and assaults have been recorded in this neighbourhood.
• Tepito: This area is right outside the historical centre and is famous for petty theft and pickpocketing. Known to be the black market of Mexico City, you can do some budget shopping in Tepito, but leave all your valuables at home.
• Others: Tlalpan, La Lagunilla, Mercado Merced, Doctores, Ciudad Neza, Xochimilco, and Tlatelolco – do not visit these areas alone or without a local guide!

Keeping your money safe in Mexico City

 One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Like many places, travelling safely requires more than pure luck. It’s important to clue yourself up with travel safety tips for Mexico City. 

This is not an extensive list: you should remain vigilant and have your wits about you at all times. But here are some pointers that will help you out. 

• Blend in – try and look like someone who knows what they’re doing, even if you don’t.
• Get an eSIM card for Mexico – this helps with lots of things.
• Don’t look rich – expensive jewelry, iPhone 14 Plus in hand, nice camera… all things that thieves want.
• Watch out on public transport – Pickpocketing is the most common crime in Mexico City. Use a money belt to keep some cash hidden .
• Ask about areas to avoid – there are dangerous areas in Mexico City.
• At night, DON’T walk – especially when intoxicated and/or alone.
• Further to that, ONLY take official taxis – Ubers are the safest in Mexico City. 
• Remember the emergency number – 911. 
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Be careful near roads – Look both ways, twice. Drivers can be reckless. 
• Learn Spanish – you don’t have to be fluent but even a bit will go a long way. 
• Only use ATMs in the daytime – inside shops or banks.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Steer clear of people trying to scam you – distraction techniques, luggage helpers, petitions etc. (More info coming on scams in Mexico City.)
• Don’t resist if someone tries to rob you – having no phone or watch is better than no life.
• Get an Earthquake App – this will alert you.
• Carry ID – even a copy. Police can ask for this and if you don’t have it, you can be detained.
• Stay away from drugs – the source of many problems in Mexico. It’s better for everyone to save it for another time. 
• Get good travel insurance !
• Don’t be consumed by dangers – but be aware. 

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Well, you can travel to Mexico City solo. Though, Mexico City is not exactly the safest place in the world .  

And by yourself, you’re going be a bit more of a target. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t go alone. Follow these tips and you’re setting yourself up for a great time.

• Make friends . There’s safety in numbers. 
• Stay in busy, well-lit areas . When there are people around, a mix of locals and tourists, it’s always a good sign. 
• Choose a top-rated hostel . Stay in popular tourist neighbourhoods. You won’t be short of choice in Mexico City. 
• Let people know your travel plans . Ideally, friends and family back home. At the very least, someone you can trust nearby. 
• Stay vigilant of your surroundings. This basically goes double for a solo traveller in Mexico . Petty crime is common in the tourist areas and metro of Mexico City.
• Don’t get too drunk . Don’t lose yourself. 
• Plan your way home before you leave . Especially if you’re coming back after nightfall. 
• Plan where you’re going beforehand . Don’t go walking into neighborhoods you know nothing about. Plan an itinerary and stick to it.
• Keep money in different places and have an emergency credit card . Always have a backup.
• Chat with the staff at your hostel or guesthouse . Ask them for their tips and recommendations (and practice your Spanish).
• Know your limits . Rest as you need to, sleep well, and know when to call it a day.

Generally, just be sensible. Exploring Mexico City is a great way to push yourself out of your comfort zone , but at the end of the day, your safety is always paramount. So don’t push yourself too much!

Yes, Mexico City is safe for solo female travellers . I don’t want to scare you, because you are a strong, independent woman. Many solo female travellers go to Mexico City all the time, and have a great experience! 

But it’s my duty to make you *aware* of some safety concerns that solo women face in this enormous powerhouse of a city. I have debated this situation long and hard and – depending on who you ask – you will have a completely different answer. 

Unfortunately, not all solo female travellers in Mexico City are or feel safe at all times. But there are many things you can do to maximize your safety!

• Trust your spidey senses! – if your gut says something is wrong then it probably is. 
• Check out good hostels for women – read reviews, make friends, and share experiences and tips. Use female-only dorms if you prefer.
• Make use of female-only transport – not essential but it may make you feel safer. Taxis, buses, trains, and metros all have female-only areas.
• Dress accordingly – Mexico is still a relatively conservative country. I love breaking boundaries but this is not the time or place. Observe what other women are wearing and follow suit.
• Again, DO NOT WALK HOME ALONE AT NIGHT – there’s way more to do in daylight hours anyway.
• Don’t leave your food or drink unattended – spiking occurs.  
• Don’t open the door for anyone – the hotel or hostel will let in other guests. It’s not your job. 
• Be aware of dangers, but don’t get consumed by them .   Try to stay rational.
• If someone bothers you, LET EVERYONE KNOW ! Should it loud and make a fuss.
• You don’t have to be polite – or answer questions, or tell the truth. Saying “no” is always okay too!

Centro Historico

With lots of historical landmarks, great shop and beautiful architecture, Centro Historico is an amazing neighborhood to visit.

Yes! Mexico City is safe to travel for families. It’s actually pretty kid-friendly too, considering it’s one of the world’s major cities.

There are loads of museums and parks, filled with families. Basically, there’s a ton of stuff to get involved with – starting with street vendors selling tasty churros, of course.

Though, walking around with strollers isn’t very easy at all. The city is often crowded and surfaces are uneven. And don’t expect to find many baby-changing facilities – except in chain restaurants and museums.

The sun is very strong here though too. Being at a high altitude, even when it doesn’t feel too hot, the UVs are still beating down hard.

Following the other safety tips above, Mexico City is a safe place for families to visit.

So first, no standard driver in Mexico City has done any kind of formal driving instructions or test. So now imagine the chaos and danger that can cause. Always exercise increased caution around the roads – because they really aren’t paying attention to red lights, one-way streets, pedestrians… you get the picture. 

For that reason, I absolutely DO NOT recommend driving in Mexico City. That’s the end of that. 

Okay, so how do you get around Mexico City safely?

Well, your best option is the Mexico City Metro. The metro carries 5 million passengers a day with 12 lines and 195 stations. 

It’s the second biggest in North America, after NYC. It’s cheap, it works well enough, and it’s (usually) the fastest way to get about. You get a Metro card from any station for 15 pesos (about $0.80 USD) and each ride costs 5 pesos (about $0.30 USD). 

Though be aware: pickpockets are VERY active. Harassment also occurs, ranging from people just asking for money to more serious offenses (which are more uncommon).

Like most places in the world, taxi drivers are a bit shit. Be aware of taxi scams (more info coming up) which again range in the seriousness of offenses. They generally just love to hike up the prices. 

ONLY use official taxis. Ask at your accommodation where your nearest Sitio is. 

DON’T hail taxis on the streets. Better yet, opt for Uber or Didi . 

Uber is safe in Mexico City and actually a much better option. It’s cheaper, you have all the details of the driver recorded, and you can track your journey. 

The buses work well if you have some patience. All kinds of buses run across the city.

Generally, public transport in Mexico City is safe but very busy.

In the big city, you should be prepared for scams. Knowing about these really changes your experience of safety in Mexico City. The scale varies from common scams that will just be a minor inconvenience to larger-scale scams. 

Here are some things to look out for: 

• Taxi scams – ranging from overcharging tourists to express kidnapping. Taxis have also been known to take people hostage and force them to take money from ATMs. This is why I stress: only use official taxis or a trusty taxi app like Uber .
• Fake ATMs – if you want to avoid having your card and/or pin number stolen, only use official banks. 
• Sauce scam – a mysterious liquid lands on you and a *friendly* stranger comes over to assist… and take your phone and wallet. 

If anyone seems overly friendly or asks too many personal questions, I would regard this as suspicious. Remember, you owe people nothing. 

How safe Mexico City is sometimes just comes down to luck. Always prioritize your safety and don’t feel bad to dismiss people at any time.

Like almost all major cities, unfortunately, crime happens in Mexico City. It varies a lot, but tourists are absolutely susceptible to (uncommon) violent and non-violent crimes. 

By following usual safety protocols, and exercising increased caution – as I recommend for anyone travelling anywhere – it’s very unlikely these crimes will affect you. This is only to make you aware of what could happen. 

The most common crime in Mexico occurs in the form of petty crime, such as pickpocketing – which happens mostly on public transportation and the Mexico City Metro. This is easily avoided with basic safety precautions and common sense.

Violent crimes do happen but they aren’t common. Kidnapping is rare , but not impossible. 

This is more avoidable by not looking rich. The richer you look, the higher someone would expect a ransom. Men are not exempt from this – so don’t think that this comes down to gender either.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Mexico City without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

To maximize your safety in Mexico City, getting good travel insurance for Mexico is essential. If things go wrong, and they can, this is your guardian angel.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

For a travel destination like Mexico City, there are lots of different things you have to consider when it comes to safety. We’ve listed the most common question, answers, and facts to make your trip as easy as possible.

What areas should you avoid in Mexico City?

Iztapalapa and Tepito are areas you should avoid in Mexico City, especially as a female traveler. Tepito is the black market and can be safe, but a lot of pickpocketing is happening here.

Is Mexico City safe to live in?

Yes, Mexico City is safe to live in. But make sure you do thorough research into the safest areas of the city to stay in. Centro Historico is one of the safest areas in Mexico City. Roma and Coyoacán are great too.

Is the water in Mexico City safe to drink?

No, tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico City. Unfortunately, water safety is not up to scratch. Stick to bottled water which you’ll find at your accommodation or any shop, anywhere.

Is it safe to walk at night in Mexico City?

No, walking around at night is not safe in Mexico City. If possible, only travel by taxi after dark. If you go out, make sure to stick with a group of friends instead of walking around alone.

This article is not designed to scare you away from this wonderful city. With the correct precautions and attitude, Mexico City is safe for foreigners, American tourists, solo women, families, and anyone else who wants to visit!

Despite all of these crazy things to think about, I would absolutely encourage you to go. Because that’s the point of Mexico City. It’s chaotic. It’s noisy and boisterous and loud and one of the most exciting cities on the planet. 

When you’re using your common sense and travel smarts, going to Mexico City is just as safe as anywhere else. If you’re backpacking Mexico already, don’t skip over this magical city. You’ll find I would recommend these safety tips for almost anywhere on the planet: exercise increased caution, stay in your lane, trust your gut, and prioritize your safety at all times. Besides that, you’re in for one hell of an experience. 

Once you’ve stepped foot across the threshold, you understand why people are attracted to visit Mexico City. You’re dropped into the middle of a mighty city with ancient history, deep culture, and insane food. 

Don’t forget your 911 emergency number. Oh, and get that travel insurance before you go. Then, of course, keep an extra eye on your stuff on the metro.

But once you’ve mastered the Mexico City Metro, you can pretty much call yourself an experienced traveller. Plus, if you can take on Mexico City, you can take on anywhere. The world is your oyster! 

Looking for more info on traveling to Mexico City?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Mexico City
• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Mexico City travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

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11 Comments

Just got back from Mex City. I’m in my 60s. Polanco during the day was very nice to walk through. No hassles. Advice: always use Didi or Uber to travel, Always! it’s Cheap & safe. always use caution crossing streets, drivers never give way to pedestrians. If you are white, you will be a target for sellers and beggars constantly. You will also be followed/shadowed at times by pick pockets. If someone is over friendly or on the other hand seems too quiet, you need to be concerned. Other than Polanco and Roma Norte during the day, you have to walk with caution at all times. I have relatives there so I’m rarely alone. Mexico is wonderful with fantastic people. Unfortunately there is a very small group of criminals who target other Mexicans and especially foreigners.

They are super valid points to make. Thanks for sharing! I wouldn’t always recommend Didi or Uber just because the traffic is sometimes SO bad that I would be sat in traffic for ages. If you’re close to a Metro station, I would recommend the Metro for speed. But for safety, this is the best way to be extra cautious, for sure. Speaking in Spanish helped a lot with being shadowed too! Making friends with locals and having them with me while walking around the city made a world of difference.

To Cynthia, I can sure you “echar una paja” is used in Spain.

Please make your research and do not invent stuff and mislead people: There are NO hurricanes in Mexico City. It is a city with 2,250 m above sea level, surrounded by mountains and in the middle of the country. There has NEVER been a hurricane in Mexico City.

Hello, I think the writer, in this case, was making the point that harsh weather taking place outside of Mexico City still has the potential to affect the weather/rain in the capital. We were not suggesting in any way that Mexico City experiences (or ever has) actual hurricanes. cheers!

Is it safe to visit the Mexico City now-November to December?

November is a very popular time to visit Mexico City. All we’d say is exercise the usual travel precautions as outlined in our guide.

Amigo maybe you want to correct the phrase for ‘no straw please?’ In Mexico we don’t say ‘paja’ but ‘popote’. In Spain ‘paja’ means straw.. In Mexico it means j*r* off.

My daughter and myself would like to visit Mexico City for the Festival of the Dead. Will it be sort of save if keeping your tips in mind. No commitment from your side – only opinion please. thanks.

Most visits end trouble free, common sense and wise decisions are a must. Note that the larger crowds at DOD will likely attract criminals, unguarded valuables etc will be easy picking.

The best place to be for the Day of the Dead is Pátzcuaro Michoacán

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• North America
• 10 Essential Tips For Staying...

Essential Tips for Staying Safe in Mexico City

Northern England Writer

Over the past few decades, Mexico City has made headlines for crime and violence, but that shouldn’t overshadow the world-class cultural and historical experiences it can offer to travelers. Of course, as with anywhere, it is still essential to have your wits about you while traveling around the country’s capital, so here are our top 10 tips for staying safe while there.

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Use public transport during the day and private transport by night

The public transport system in Mexico City is chaotic and crowded but very affordable, and using it will certainly give you a taste of local life. However, the UK Foreign Office website states : “Be particularly alert on public transport, at airports and in bus stations,” and warn that women should be especially careful. Women should take advantage of the “female-only” carriages available on the Metro whenever possible.

At night, especially if you’re travelling alone, you shouldn’t hesitate to order a taxi to get from one place to another. Use sitio taxis from authorised cab ranks, or ask your hotel to order you a car,rather than hailing one down on the street. While in the cab, always make sure that your driver is using their taximetro to ensure you pay the correct fare.

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Learn basic Spanish

Having some knowledge of basic Spanish will help you immensely on your trip. Mexico City is neither Cancún nor Puerto Vallarta, and the number of people who speak English fluently or near fluently is far lower than in both those places. Learning some basic phrases, therefore, will make you seem far less ignorant and will help you navigate your way around.

Exercise caution in certain areas of the city

Some neighborhoods in Mexico City are considered more dangerous than others. Tepito, a barrio located in the Cuauhtémoc borough, is one, as are the areas of La Lagunilla, Mercado Merced and Doctores. Outlying barrios like Ciudad Neza and Iztapalapa have also developed dangerous reputations. Stick to well-lit, central streets while in these areas and try to avoid them at night.

Be cautious with your cash

This encompasses everything to do with money and cash-carrying while in Mexico City. Obviously, don’t carry around every peso you brought with you. Only carry what you’ll need for the day and preferably in two different locations; for example, take 200 pesos in your purse and another 200 in an inside pocket. Take care when withdrawing money, too. “It’s generally safer to use ATMs during daylight hours and inside shops or malls,” says the UK Foreign Office.

Be careful with the cuisine

Mexico has a reputation for excellent street food , but you should always choose wisely. To avoid getting ill, stick to the stalls that have people flocking to them, especially if those people are locals. That way, you know they’re reputable and affordable. It is also considered best practice to avoid drinking the tap water in Mexico City and stick to bottled instead.

Keep your valuables hidden

This kind of goes hand in hand with the previous point, but don’t make yourself an obvious target. Keep jewellery to a minimum—no flashy earrings or designer watches—and please carry your camera in a bag rather than slung round your neck. That DSLR probably set you back a chunk of money, so you wouldn’t want to have it snatched within your first few hours in the city. Keep wallets and purses out of pockets that are in easy reach, as cramped, rush-hour Metro travel will see them swiped in the blink of an eye.

Know your emergency numbers

This is a crucial piece of advice for anyone traveling in a foreign country, whether it’s Mexico City or elsewhere. Keep a list in both your phone and on a separate piece of paper of all necessary numbers. In Mexico City, the police can be reached by dialling 911 and ambulances and fire services are available on 066 or 080, although it’s worth adding that you’ll need to know Spanish to communicate with any of these services. You should also carry the number of your home country’s embassy with you, as well as any personal emergency contacts.

Many travelers come to Mexico City expecting the tropical weather of Cancún , and while the country is definitely not cold all year round, you should make an effort to do as the locals do. Try not to wear shorts, sandals and vest tops when everyone else is in jeans and jumpers. That’s not to say you need to be uncomfortable, just don’t dress for a day at the beach when you’re actually just exploring the city.

If something does happen, don’t fight back

If you are unlucky enough to be mugged or, worse, kidnapped while in Mexico City, you should never resist. On this topic, the UK Foreign Office says:

“Short-term opportunistic kidnapping—called ‘express kidnapping’—can occur, particularly in urban areas. Victims are forced to withdraw funds from credit or debit cards at a cash point to secure their release. Where victims have friends or relatives living locally, a ransom may be demanded from them. You should comply with requests and not attempt to resist such attacks.”

As frustrating as it might be, you should allow your attacker to take the possessions they want. Purses, phones and money can all be replaced, and they are not worth risking your safety for.

It is important to note here that you should invest in decent travel insurance that covers all these eventualities before setting off on your trip.

Keep copies, not originals, of important documents with you

It’s always a good idea to keep a copy of your passport and visa with you at all times. However, instead of carrying the original, which, if lost, could cause some serious problems at airport immigration, just take a decent-quality photocopy instead. If anyone asks to see your documents at any point (unlikely, but it sometimes happens), show them the photocopy and explain the original is at your hotel .

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Mexico City

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• Getting Around

Getting Around in Mexico City

Mexico City has a highly developed and remarkably cheap public transportation system. It is a shame that the sharp increase in crime and resulting safety concerns have made these less comfortable options for travelers. The Metro, first- and second-class buses, colectivos, and Nissan Tsuru libre taxis will take you anywhere you want to go for very little money -- but visitor warnings about the use of public transportation should be respected. Because sitio taxis (official taxis registered to a specific locale or hotel) are relatively inexpensive and the safest way to travel within the city, you are best off using them.

Taxis operate under several distinct sets of rules.

"Turismo" and Sitio Taxis -- These are by far the safest way to travel within Mexico City. Turismo taxis are unmarked cabs, usually well-kept luxury cars assigned to specific hotels that have special license plates. Although more expensive than the VW Beetle and libre taxis (usually Nissan Tsurus), "turismo" taxis, along with radio-dispatched sitio taxis, are the safest ones to use. The drivers negotiate rates with individual passengers for sightseeing, but rates to and from the airport are established. Ask the bell captain what the airport fare should be, and establish it before taking off. These drivers are often licensed English-speaking guides and can provide exceptional service. In general, expect to pay around 250 pesos per hour for guided service, and about 15% more than metered rates for normal transportation. Often these drivers will wait for you while you shop or dine to take you back to the hotel, or they can be called to come back and pick you up.

Metered Taxis -- Most of the classic green VW Beetle cabs have been phased out but their red counterparts as well as libre cabs provide low-cost service, but for safety reasons, you should not use them. Some sitio taxis (radio taxis, which are safe; tel. 55/5590-3325 or 55/5698-5192) use meters, while others have set rates. I have used Intertaxi (tel. 55/2603-3268 ). They have a fleet of regular cars that don't appear to be taxis from the outside. This is especially safe if you're traveling late at night, when thieves may see taxis as easy targets. Although you may encounter a gouging driver or one who advances the meter or drives farther than necessary to run up the tab, most service is quick and adequate.

The subway system in Mexico City offers a smooth ride for one of the lowest fares anywhere in the world (5 pesos). Twelve lines crisscross the sprawling city. Each train usually has nine cars. The Metro is open Monday to Friday 5am to midnight, Saturday 6am to midnight, and Sunday 7am to midnight.

As you enter the station, buy a boleto (ticket) at the glass taquilla (ticket booth). Insert your ticket into the slot at the turnstile and pass through; inside you'll see two large signs showing the line's destination (for example, for Line 1, it's Observatorio and Pantitlán ). Follow the signs in the direction you want and know where you're going; there is usually only one map of the routes, at the entrance to the station. You'll see two signs everywhere: SALIDA (exit) and ANDENES (platforms). On the train, above each door is a map of the station stops for that line, with symbols and names.

CORRESPONDENCIAS indicates transfer points. The ride is smooth, fast, and efficient (although hot and crowded during rush hours). The beautifully designed stations are clean and have the added attraction of displaying archaeological ruins unearthed during construction. A subterranean passage goes between the Pino Suárez and Zócalo stations, so you can avoid the crowds along Pino Suárez.

The Metro is crowded during the day on weekdays and, consequently, pretty hot and muggy in summer. In fact, you may find it virtually unusable downtown between 4 and 7pm on weekdays, because of sardine-can conditions. At some stations, there are even separate lanes roped off for women and children; the press of the crowd is so great that someone might get molested. Buses, colectivos, and taxis are all heavily used during these hours, less so during off hours (such as 10:30am-noon). Avoid the crowds by traveling during off-peak hours, or simply wait a few minutes for the next train.

Be prepared to do some walking within the Metro system, especially if you transfer lines. Stations are connected by elevated walkways, corridors with shops or museumlike displays, and escalators.

The Subway Skinny -- The Metro system runs Monday to Friday from 5am to midnight, Saturday from 6am to midnight, and Sunday and holidays from 7am to midnight. Baggage larger than a small carry-on is not allowed on the trains. In practice, this means that bulky suitcases or backpacks will make you persona non grata. On an average day, Mexico City's Metro handles more than five million riders -- leaving little room for bags! But in effect, if no one stops you as you enter, you're in.

Watch your bags and your pockets. Metro pickpockets prey on the unwary (especially foreigners) and are very crafty -- on a crowded train, they've been known to empty a fanny pack from the front. Be careful, and carry valuables inside your clothing. Women should avoid traveling alone.

Moving millions of people through this sprawling urban mass is a gargantuan task, but the city officials do a pretty good job of it. Bus stops on the major tourist streets usually have a map posted with the full route description.

Crowding is common during peak hours. The cost is 6 pesos. Although the driver usually has change, try to have exact fare or at least a few coins when you board.

One of the most important bus routes runs between the zócalo and the Auditorio (National Auditorium in Chapultepec Park) or the Observatorio Metro station. The route is Avenida Madero or Cinco de Mayo, Avenida Juárez, and Paseo de la Reforma.

The latest member of the Mexico City transportation family, the Metrobus was first introduced in 2006. These buses run in their own designated lanes up and down Avenida Insurgentes and often travel much faster than surrounding traffic. Most of the stops are designed to be convenient for commuters, but you can use it to access Plaza Tres Culturas from the Tlateloco stop, and the luxurious Reforma 222 shopping plaza near the Hamburgo stop; if you get off at Campeche, you'll be just a short walk from Condesa. To board these buses, purchase a smartcard for 15 pesos, which can be recharged for 5 pesos per trip. These buses are generally cleaner and faster than other forms of transportation but can get just as crowded during peak hours.

Women-Only Buses & Train Cars -- In January 2008, Mexico City designated a number of city buses for women only, distinguished by conspicuous pink placards. The popular program was designed to prevent men from groping female passengers -- a fairly common problem in the capital's crowded public transportation system. Bus drivers are charged with keeping men off of these buses, and their female passengers are delighted. During peak hours, Mexico City's subway system also designates the first three cars for women and children.

By  Collectivo

Also called peseros or microbuses, these are sedans or minibuses, usually green and gray, that run along major arteries. They pick up and discharge passengers along the route, charge established fares, and provide slightly more comfort and speed than the bus. Cards in the windshield display routes; often a Metro station is the destination. One of the most useful routes for tourists runs from the zócalo along Avenida Juárez, along Reforma to Chapultepec, and back again. Board a colectivo with a sign saying ZÓCALO, not VILLA. (The Villa route goes to the Basílica de Guadalupe.) Some of the minibuses on this route have automatic sliding doors -- you don't have to shut them.

As the driver approaches a stop, he may put his hand out the window and hold up one or more fingers. This is the number of passengers he's willing to take on (vacant seats are difficult to see if you're outside the car).

By Tourist Bus

A convenient and popular way to see the city is on one of the red double-decker Turibuses (tel. 55/5133-2488; www.turibus.com.mx ), which offer separate circuits in the north and south of the city. Each of the double-decker buses seats 75 and offers audio information in five languages, plus street maps. The buses operate from 9am to 9pm, with unlimited hop-on, hop-off privileges after paying 140 pesos for a day pass (165 pesos weekends). The Chapultepec-Centro Histórico route has 25 stops at major monuments, museums, and neighborhoods along the 35km (22-mile) route, which runs from the National Auditorium to the city center (including the zócalo ) and from there to La Plaza de las Tres Culturas (Square of the Three Cultures), returning via Avenida Reforma toward the posh neighborhood of Polanco and finally to Museo del Niño (Children's Museum). The full circuit takes a little under 3 hours. Another Turibus circuit runs in the city south, taking passengers from La Roma neighborhood south along Avenida Insurgentes to San Angel, Coyoacán, and Tlalpan. Stops include the World Trade Center, Plaza de Torros bullring, Carillo Gil museum, Perisur shopping center, UNAM, and the Frida Kahlo museum, among others. Turibus also offers a route to the pyramids at Teotihuacán.

By Rental Car

If you plan to travel to Puebla or a surrounding area, a rental car might come in handy. However, due to high rates of auto theft, I don't recommend renting a car. Taxis and the Metro also eliminate the risk of getting lost in an unsavory area.

If you must rent, be aware that that the least-expensive rental car is a manual-shift without air-conditioning. The price jump is considerable for automatics with air-conditioning. The safest option is to leave the driving to someone else -- Avis offers chauffeur-driven rental cars at its nine locations in the Mexican capital. The chauffeur is on an 8-hour shift, but the car is available to the customer for 24 hours. For prices and reservations, call Avis (tel. 800/352-7900 in the U.S., or 01-800/288-8888 in Mexico).

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Is Mexico City Safe?

Mexico City is an amazing destination with a vibrant culture, multi-layered history, and many fascinating sites to explore. There are many good reasons to visit Mexico City , and there’s no need to avoid visiting due to safety concerns. As one of the largest cities in the world, of course, there is crime, but you can take some precautions to ensure that your time in Mexico City is enjoyable and safe. Read on for tips for minimizing risks during your next trip.

Travel Advisories

The U.S. State Department’s Travel Advisory lists Mexico City at Level 3 , indicating travelers should exercise increased caution. Some Mexican states have higher Travel Advisory levels, including the neighboring state of Mexico. The Travel Advisory alerts travelers to petty crime occurring in both tourist areas and non-tourist areas and the fact that the city sees both violent and non-violent crime. They advise being cautious, especially at night and outside the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol routinely. 

Is Mexico City Dangerous?

Mexico City is not a totally safe destination, but travelers who practice safety precautions are unlikely to encounter problems. Using common sense, avoiding certain areas, and employing the same strategies when traveling in any big city are important. There is a significant police presence, particularly in places of tourist interest. Criminals do not specifically target tourists; victims typically are targeted based on an appearance of prosperity, vulnerability, or a lack of awareness .

The Mexico City neighborhoods of Centro Histórico, Roma, Juarez, Polanco, San Rafael, Condesa, Zona Rosa, and Coyoacán are well-traveled and generally safe. You may want to avoid the neighborhoods of Merced and Tepito or practice high levels of caution in those areas, and places like Nezahualcoyotl and Iztapalapa, which are not places of tourist interest, are best avoided. 

A few types of crime you should be aware of when traveling in Mexico City are express and virtual kidnappings .

• Express kidnapping is when a person (often a taxi driver or someone posing as a taxi driver) abducts their victim temporarily and forces them to withdraw the daily maximum allowed amount from an ATM. They may hold the person until midnight to withdraw the full amount the following day. In express kidnappings, the victim is usually not injured: the kidnappers' goal is to get cash, then they let their victim go. To avoid being a victim of express kidnapping, use secure transportation instead of hailing cabs on the street, maintain an awareness of your surroundings, and avoid being out by yourself at night. Also, don't carry extra debit or credit cards on you; leave them in your hotel safe.
• In a virtual kidnapping, no one is actually abducted. This is an extortion phone call, and the victim is the person who receives the call. Usually, they're told that a loved one has been kidnapped, and there may be the sound of a crying/pleading voice, ostensibly the person's loved one calling for help. The caller may confuse the victim and trick them into giving away important information. Virtual kidnappers may use information obtained from social media to target potential victims. To avoid being a victim of this type of crime, avoid posting your precise whereabouts in real-time on social media, keep family and friends advised of your travel plans, and don't give any personal or family information over the phone.

Is Mexico City Safe for Solo Travelers?

Solo travelers report feeling safe in Mexico City. Try to learn some Spanish before you go—at least a few phrases that will come in handy. Make sure a friend or family member has a copy of your itinerary and has an idea of your general whereabouts. Have a set time to check in with them. Stick to tourist-frequented areas, and keep an eye on your possessions when you’re out and about.

Is Mexico City Safe for Female Travelers?

Women travelers generally feel safe in Mexico City, but it’s wise to take some extra safety precautions. Young women travelers, in particular, and any woman traveling alone may be catcalled and subject to unwanted advances. As much as possible, travel mainly during the day. Carry your essentials in a cross-body bag instead of a purse. If you’re out at night, stick to areas that are well-lit and where other people are. Be cautious in bars: keep an eye on your drink, and be wary of accepting food or drinks from strangers. Read our tips for women travelers to Mexico for more ideas on how to deal with these issues.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Mexico City is overall a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ visitors. Same-sex marriage was legalized in Mexico City in 2009, and the law protects against discrimination based on gender identity. There’s a thriving gay scene , and travelers are unlikely to experience harassment.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Mexico City is generally a welcoming and safe destination for BIPOC travelers. Although 1.2 percent of Mexico’s population identifies as Afro-Mexican or of African descent, they have only recently been officially recognized in the Mexican Constitution, and the majority live in Veracruz, Guerrero, and Oaxaca states. Travel blogger Tina Hawkins writes about her experience of being Black in Mexico City and having people point and comment about her hair and skin in a curious manner, but not in a way that felt threatening to her.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Mexico City is a wonderful destination with good value, a rich cultural heritage, and wonderful museums and sites to visit. Travelers should exercise the caution required in any destination. 

• Taking the metro in Mexico City can be a convenient and effective way to get around. During peak times, crowds are intense, making it easy for pick-pockets to rob items without you even noticing. Don’t carry valuables beyond the necessary, and make sure they’re tucked away and won’t be easy to access if you’re packed into a crowded subway car. On some lines, there’s a car reserved for women and children at the front of the train. 
• Use an authorized taxi for transportation from the airport or bus station. Instead of hailing a cab on the street, use Uber or ask your hotel to call a taxi for you; they’ll make a note of the taxi number that picked you up. 
• It’s best to use ATMs in bank branches during business hours, and the second-best choice is at the airport or your hotel. Avoid using ATMs on the street or in isolated areas.
• Keep a low profile. Leave your valuables at home or make use of your hotel safe. Don’t wear expensive jewelry, watches, or other items that look expensive and may draw attention to you. Keep your cell phone and camera tucked away when not in use. Try to blend in as much as possible.
• Know what to do in case of an emergency . The emergency phone hotline in Mexico is 911, and dialing will connect you with a bilingual operator for the Ángeles Verdes .  

U.S. State Department, "Mexico Travel Advisory." September 8, 2020.

Overseas Security Advisory Council, “ Mexico 2020 Crime & Safety Report: Mexico City .”  August 1, 2020.

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Home > Mexico > Mexico City Travel Tips

Mexico City Travel Tips: 20 Dos and Don'ts No One Tells You

Make Mexico City Your Even Favorite-er City

These travel tips are part of our local, loco, (not) low-cal Mexico City blog , which includes our city guide , favorite local food , why bike , and report on pulque .

Mexico City is our favorite city to visit over and over again. And even though we think we know the city pretty well by now, every time we go we learn a few things that make it our even favorite-er city. These things we've learned are the Mexico City travel tips we're sharing below.

If you haven’t been before, these tips will probably make Mexico City your favorite city too. And if this ain’t your first rodeo a) You obviously have great taste in travel destinations, and b) Prepare to make your tastes even tastier.

Either way, these Mexico City travel tips will upgrade your perception of the DF CDMX.

Tips for your Trip

These Mexico City travel tips are split into four sections. Jump to directly to any one by clicking these shortcut links:

• Upon Arrival
• While in Mexico City
• Things Not to Do
• Before Leaving

As Soon As You Arrive in Mexico City

✓  get a cell phone sim.

You're going to need data in Mexico City to use Uber and the EcoBici shared bikes ( see below ), so get a SIM card immediately upon arriving. Dealing with a cell phone company is far from the most pleasant way to start your trip, but it'll make your trip more pleasant.

You can get a local SIM in the airport at the Telcel office in Terminal 1 or at an Oxxo or 7-11. They'll help you set it up. Here's what you need to get started:

• A SIM card. This shouldn't cost more than 150 pesos. It should come with  and it should come with some "welcome credit."
• A basic Amigo Sin Limite plan. Get the 50 peso one, which entitles you to 7 days of unlimited calling and messages to Mexico, USA, and Canada and 300 MB of data. This likely will be included with the cost of your SIM card.
• An Internet Amigos plan for extra data. It costs 150 pesos for 1 GB.

Tip:   By default, Telcel sets up your account so that if you add credit ( una recarga in Spanish) it will automatically be used to buy the most expensive Amigos Sin Limite plan possible. To have more control over what you buy when you do a recarga, ask that they change your account accordingly.

More Tips: Read this more detailed guide to SIM cards in Mexico  if you're still in doubt.

T-Mobile User?: Eric comments below that your phone will work just the same as in the US (and France, Germany, Japan, and other countries), for no extra charge.

✓  Withdraw as many pesos as possible

In the interest of reducing the number of ATM trips you need to make and foreign withdrawal fees, take out as much cash as you can all at once. You're going to need it. Cash is still king in Mexico City and it will remain that way until business owners can no longer dodge taxes by taking it as payment.

Don't worry about withdrawing more than you need. As you'll soon discover in our final Mexico City travel tip below, you can actually make money off any pesos you haven't spent by the end of your trip!

Bank of America client?: Eric comments that you can make withdrawals from Scotiabank ATMs free of charge and with the prime rate so long as you refuse the insurance and say No to the proposed exchange rate at the last step of your withdrawal.

✓  Buy a plug-in mosquito repelling device

One of the few things that suck about Mexico City is the mosquitos. There aren't swarms like in the Amazon or Northern Canada, but they still have a remarkable ability to ruin your sleep.

Nothing 60 pesos ($3 USD) can't fix, though.

At the nearest convenience store or supermarket, pick up a little white plug-in device that uses blue tabs, put in a socket near your bed every night, and enjoy a blissful sleep.

We swear by the things. Our last two times in Mexico City, we "donated blood" for a couple nights, got fed up, got a mosquito repelling thing, and slept blissfully from then on.

Note: The things don't seem to exist on Amazon. We looked. Just get one when you arrive.

✓  Sign up for EcoBici

Despite the popular belief that Mexican traffic is as loco as swallowing a habanero whole, Mexico City is actually a surprisingly bike-friendly city. Side roads are mostly empty, the roads are flat, and drivers are more likely to honk one of those custom Mexican sexy whistle horns at you than an angry one.

If you're comfortable biking, sign up for EcoBici, Mexico City's bike share program, as soon as possible.

To give you an idea of how handy it is, in our most recent week in town we did over 40 rides covering 150 km.

For everything you need to know to spice up your Mexico City trip with EcoBici, including its pros and cons, how to use it, where to use it, and whether it's safe for you or not, don't miss our guide .

Warning: As Marcia learned the hard way and warns in the comments, don't sign up for EcoBici until you are ready to use it, because your account automatically initiates upon payment.

Related: How to Experience More of CDMX, Faster, by Using EcoBici

Travel Tips for a Better Time in Mexico City

✓  ask for samples at restaurants.

If you're unsure of which sauce, mole, or pulque flavor to order at a restaurant, ask for samples. Just about every restaurant and bar will be happy to oblige. That way you'll make the right choice every time and experience more flavors. Plus it's free.

✓  Get on the rooftops

The Google search results for "Best rooftop bar in Mexico City" suck. The places that show up in the results are higher-end than they are high up, often covered, and have no views.

We know because we went up to each of them and generally came back down quickly and unimpressed.

But we found a few worth climbing the stairs up to (…or pushing the button in the elevator).

Mexico City Rooftop Bars:

• Terraza Catedral , has 35 peso draft beers and views of the Zocalo. It's better than El Mayor's rooftop bar and restaurant three blocks down the way. On weekdays it's "open at 1 p.m." (not really; see tip below) to the public. On weekends it opens at 6 p.m. and there's a cover fee.
• El Balcon del Zocalo's name is self-explanatory. It's ideal for a fancier welcome or goodbye dinner.
• Pulqueria Insurgentes doesn't have a view, but its got a refreshingly airy and unpretentious rooftop. On Sundays, their pulque is buy-one-get-one-free, and on Mondays all alcoholic drinks are half-priced.

Save these bars' locations and those of 19 more of our favorite restaurants, cafés, and street food right to your phone's Google Maps by getting our free Mexico City treasures map, below .

✓  Burn off those buns (and tortillas)

Without a doubt, the best part about Mexico City is the food. The more food you eat, the better your trip will be. So how do you eat as much as humanly possible?

Working up an appetite with exercise.

Here are some fun (and mostly free) places to get your non-habanero-induced sweat on:

• Hapi Fitness (first class 100 pesos): You'll be thinking "help-me" not "hapi" while doing a Hapi Fitness class, but we guarantee you'll be happy afterward. What's more, you'll emerge from the studio and find yourself right inside Dosis Cafe, where you can immediately reward yourself with a tasty pastry.
• Park 54   (1st class free): Quick, dirty, and sweaty, Park 54's group circuit workouts will get you pumped and pump you up for a big day.
• Gandhi Circuit in Chapultapec Park  (Public, see Google Maps ): This 1-km loop through the trees with a small workout area in the middle is a good spot for a breath huff-and-puff of fresh air.
• Outdoor calisthenic parks  (Public): You can find chin-up bars and other apparatus for doing bodyweight workouts right beside Insurgentes metro station, in Parque Espana, in front of Qi Fitness in Condesa, and in the Centro.

Related: 9 Fun & Fast Tricks We Use to Stay Fit While Traveling

✓  Venture into a pulqueria

Pulque is kombucha with attitude. It's a gut-friendly fermented drink with 3-to-8-percent alcohol that you can only find within a day's drive Mexico's high plains.

It's not necessarily taste-bud friendly, though. Raw pulque is an acquired taste whose appeal is hurt by the fact that people too often compare its texture to that of semen. But if you give it a chance, get a curado that's blended with fruits, and compare it to yogurt-mixed-with-beer instead of sperm, there's a good chance you'll enjoy it.

Even if you can't swallow the stuff, pulquerias are worth venturing into for their dive-y, old school atmosphere and for the chance to meet the curious characters who you'll be drinking beside.

As for which pulqueria to go to, as a general rule of thumb the farther the pulqueria is from tourist attractions, the better.

If you're interested in trying this "kombucha on steroids," make sure to check our guide to its up-and-down-and-up-again history, amazing nutritional benefits, and where to get it in Mexico City.

✓  At least stay in the Condesa / Roma Norte area

As we explain in the neighborhood overview of our Mexico City first-timers' guide , it's the ideal area to base your stay. It's central, safe, cosmopolitan, and has tons of places for eating, shopping, exercising, and eating some more.

Condesa / Roma Norte has plenty of boutique hotels and hostels. If we were rich or it were our honeymoon, we'd stay at the Nima Local House or La Valise .

Related: Quick and Dirty Mexico City First-Timers' Guide

✓  Read these other blogs' Mexico City travel tips

Here are a couple other posts with not-obvious, original, and actually helpful Mexico City travel tips:

• What not to Do in Mexico City: Advice from a Local , by Northern Lauren
• 17 Things to Know Before You Go to Mexico City , by Explore Parts Unknown

✓  Try these tips and tricks to change the way you travel

You're sure to find at least one idea that will change the way you travel in our list of our best travel tips and tricks . It has everything from advanced, experimental travel tips and tricks to practical but oft-overlooked ones to dumb advice we hear others give too often (and what to do instead).

What NOT to Do in Mexico City

✗  Don't be a wuss

Worried that your ice cubes might be made from tap water?

Suck it up and suck down your drink anyways.

Wondering where that food's been and how long it's been sitting out?

Tell your selfish yuppy gut bacteria they need to make some Mexican friends. It's good for all of you.

Concerned that you'll stick out like a sore thumb in a poorer neighborhood?

Hate to break it to you, but the people in those neighborhoods are too preoccupied with more important things to care about your presence.

Get over yourself and don't be a wuss.

✗  Don't look like a tourist

Even if you're a big, light-haired, fair-skinned guy like Chris you  should at least try to look like a local resident instead of a tourist.

That means no flip-flops under any circumstances, and no shorts unless it's blisteringly hot outside.

Otherwise, it's so obvious you're a tourist that you may as well wear your national flag as a cape, paint your face in the same colors, and fan yourself with 500 peso bills.

✗  Don't pay for water

You know how full-serve gas station attendants try to upsell you on premium gas and you have to say, "No, just regular, please"? Well that's how it is with water at restaurants in Mexico City.

When you ask for water your waiter will default to bringing you an expensive bottle. But if you ask the right way, they'll begrudgingly give you a glass of filtered water for free.

Ask for " agua del filtro ." Most likely, the server will pretend not to understand at first, so insist. Say, " Un vaso de agua del garrafon " (a glass from the jug). Repeat if necessary.

The waiter will eventually relent and bring you your water, saving you some pesos and saving the environment from another empty bottle.

✗  Don't wait in super long in lines

Here's a hot travel take: Anything you need to wait around in line with other tourists for is not worth doing.

For example, unless you're such a Frida fan that you've grown a unibrow in her honor, it's not worth it (unless you buy in advance, as per the tip below). Also, instead of waiting to blow your pesos with other hip gringos at Hotel Condesa's bar, get some pulque at Pulqueria Insurgentes. And rather than wait forever for a pastry from Rosetta go up the street to the much more spacious Cafe NIN, which has the exact same treats minus the line.

But when it comes to less-touristy attractions, don't be scared off by rumors of lineups. Three of our favorite food spots —Fonda Margarita, Esquina Chilaquil, and Tacos Don Juan—were said to have hour-plus long lines, but in all three cases we waited no more than twenty minutes. We suspect the locals exaggerate to keep annoying tourists away.

Tip: Save yourself a couple of hours waiting to get into the Frida museum by buying tickets in advance on this site or doing a tour, like this this highly-rated Airbnb experience , that includes VIP skip-the-line entry. (Thanks to Nina for this tip. She also recommends paying extra for a guide or audio tour, which she regrets not doing.)

✗  Don't go anywhere when it's close to its opening or closing hours

Based on our experience, opening and closing hours are suggestions in Mexico City, not reality.

Inevitably, the person running the shop, restaurant, or bar will have an excuse to open later than advertised and close earlier.

Being naive to this reality (perhaps due to Chris' always-on-time Swiss ancestry) and slow learners, we went but had to come back another time to four different places during our trip: Helado Obscuro, Terraza Catedral, Minichelista, and Pulqueria La Nuclear.

✗  Don't trust strangers who approach you in perfect English

We were minding our own business eating some Dorilokos near the Anthropology Museum when a frazzled-looking white guy approached. In perfect English, he rambled on about how he was robbed in a taxi and was desperate to catch his flight. He asked for twenty to thirty dollars for a taxi, saying he would repay us later via PayPal.

We asked him to screw off. There was a fluent-English speaking tourist booth beside us whose job it is to help out people like him, so he was clearly a scammer.

A similar situation happened near Bellas Artes with a guy at one of those three-cups-one-ball sleight-of-hand games who asked us to "help him out for a sec."

Long story short, if you have the face of a sucker like we apparently do, there's a decent chance you'll be approached by indecent people trying to scam you. If they have suspiciously good English, be suspicious.

If you feel bad, do something nice for a stranger when you get home to make up for it.

✗  Don't take taxis

We don't know about you, but we prefer not to pay more money to expose ourselves to a higher risk of getting ripped off and getting lost. That's why we use Uber in Mexico City.

As an example, an official taxi from the airport to Roma Norte costs 220 pesos. Uber costs 130. Use those 90 pesos you save towards getting yourself a Mexican SIM card ( see above ) so you can use Uber.

Don't overlook other forms of transit, too. Biking, the bus, and the metro can be faster and are certainly cheaper. See our Mexico City Guide for more on getting around.

Before You Leave Mexico City

✓  buy your souvenir mezcal or tequila in the city, not at the airport duty-free.

The selection of booze in Mexico City's airport duty-free is expensive and only has brands you can buy in liquor stores back home.

Get a cheaper, better, more unique bottle in town. Bundle it up before packing it in your check-in luggage, pray it doesn't get smashed en route, then share it with your friends while exaggerating about how sought-after the particular brand it is.

✓  Make some money on the exchange rate

Mexico City airport currency exchange booths will pay you to take US dollars off their hands.

For example, Chris exchanged 720 pesos to dollars at the end of our trip. According to the official exchange rate that day, those pesos should have been worth $36 USD. But they gave him $37. He made $1 profit, which is more than this blog earns him most days.

If you happen to have have $10K cash in your bank account, you can exploit this loophole to make hundreds of dollars.

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Read This Next:

These Mexico City travel tips are part of our Local, Loco, and (Not) Low-Cal Mexico City blog.

Discover a whole lot more tasty tips by completing the series:

Mexico City Guide: 12 F.A.Qs for 1st Timers

How to Eat Like a Local in Mexico City: 15 Surefire Favorites

How to Explore Mexico City by Bike

Pulque: A Guide to Mexico's Kombucha on Steroids

50+ Travel Tips and Tricks That Will Change the Way You Travel

Disclosure: Whenever possible, we use links that earn us a cut if you pay for stuff we recommend. It costs you nothing, so we'd be crazy not to. Read our affiliate policy .

26 thoughts on “Mexico City Travel Tips: 20 Dos and Don'ts No One Tells You”

Great tips for visiting Mexico city. I like how you promote visiting local places. You have a to be a bit extra cautious when visiting Mexico.

Thanks for the perspective Henry. I agree you have to be cautious when visiting Mexico, but honestly you have to be cautious in any foreign country. Even in Vancouver, where we are now, you can find yourself in trouble if you're naive and careless. As for CDMX specifically, based on our experience and that of our friends who've been there and lived there, I'd definitely say it's way, WAY safer than most people think. As safe as many American cities. But just like in those cities, you're right that you gotta be careful.

Thanks for the tips! I'm planning a trip to Mexico City for the first time in February and I'm curious to hear why you think the Frida Khalo museum isn't worth it. I was planning to get tickets in advance to try to avoid the lines, but I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Hey Olivia. That's a really fair question. The reason I'd say it's overrated is because of the huge line that wastes so much precious CDMX time and because people go because other people go, even if they don't give a crap about art or Kahlo. They may as well go to one of the many other, but less popular, museum. But if you can avoid the line by getting a ticket and if you go in already with a true appreciation of Kahlo and desire to learn more, then by all means it's a good idea. Most people don't fit those criteria, though.

"The Blue House" is a marvelous 'don't miss' home that reflects so much of who Frieda Kahlo was. Colorful, decorated in this artist's very particular taste. One of the few city spots to which I often return..I am an artist. Much of my work – water color and photography, is of Mejico…

"Fair skinned, blonde haired" I see you poking fun at yourself. Really appreciate the post, been trying to collect as much information as possible. We're headed to CDMX mid February. I didn't see any mention of Xochilmilco canals or the ruins of Teotithuacan. Any recommendations? Priced a potential tour but more expensive than expecting. We are thinking maybe uber and tour ourselves. Vale la pena?

Also, lucha libre, yes or no?

Thanks – Mary

Hi Mary, Thanks for the questions!

We share our brief takes on Xochimilco, Teotihuacan, and lucha libre in our "Quick and Dirty Mexico City Guide" . Of the three, we'd recommend lucha libre the highest… even though we haven't done it. All our friends who have, even those who we wouldn't suspect would like it, gave us rave reviews.

On the other two, in addition to what we write in the Quick and Dirty guide I'd say the biggest determinant of whether to go or not is how much time you have. We consider neither to be absolute "must dos" for trip of less than a week, especially since the time you lose going there and back is precious. And if you want to get out of town, it's possibly even worth considering a pueblo like Tepotzlan instead.

Whatever you decide, have a fantastic trip. And if you discover tips of your own, or ones of ours you disagree with (politely of course), please come back to share it!

"For example, unless you’re such a Frida fan that you’ve grown a unibrow in her honor, it’s not worth it."

Are you seriously suggesting that Casa Azul isn't worth the wait? Instead of skipping the museum, I'd suggest planning your day better. There's tours that help you skip the line.

Fair enough, Julia. Sorry maybe for making you frown so much you almost have a unibrow yourself.

I would bet that a good percentage of people waiting in line are waiting simple because everyone else said to go. They could either plan better like you say, or prioritize based on their own interests.

Yeah, don't take a taxi! Much better to support this Uber exploiter company. by the way: a bus or metro would be even cheaper. But that is too local perhaps.

From taxi scammers to uber exploiters. What's next in the evolution? You're right, Momo, that we should mention buses and metro here. I'll update the post. Thanks!

OMG This post had me absolutely cracking up! "Tell your yuppie gut to make some Mexican friends." LOL what an incredible line! I am heading to Mexico (but CDMX for only 2 days) and am so thankful I found this post! Great tips. We are going to the Frida Khalo house, but got skip the line tickets in advance, and though I'm not a huge fan of art and museums, do love her for all that she accomplished as a female Mexican artist. As a traveler watching the budget I definitely appreciate all the local and more affordable tips!

Hey Nina, Thanks. It's nice to hear at least some people appreciate my attempts at humor.

Now that you mention it, I should mention the skip-the-line option for Frida. Thanks!

If you come up with any other tips to add from your experience, let me know. If I like it, I'll add it and link to your site as a shout-out.

Buen viaje!

Any comments on airlines between cities in Mexico. I don't want to waste time taking 6 hour bus trips, but the airlines have lots of negative reviews. Thanks!

Sorry, Jaimee, but I've mostly bussed around Mexico so I don't have enough experience on the airlines to help out. Any other reader with tips, please chime in!

Hi Jaimee, I highly recommend flying with a Mexican airline. Just be aware of the extra costs for luggage (that's why I always travel only with hand luggage), especially with the cheaper airlines. I have tried many airlines like Volaris, Air Mexico, Aeromar, VivaAerobús and even small airplanes with only 12 passengers and they were all very reliable. Let me know if you have more questions. And enjoy Mexico!

Great tips, guys (and gals). Thank!!

Two more we can add from recent experience.

1) Bank of America partners with ScotiaBank for ATM service in MX (and much of Latin America?) There are no fees for using a BoA ATM card at a Scotiabank AND you get prime exchange rate BUT a) you have to refuse the insurance and b) you have to say NO to their proposed excange rate (which is the last question the ATM asks you). Also there is seldom a Scotiabank location where you need it.

Regarding Cell Phones, T-mobile is a German company, and therefore they are aware that there are other countries in the world besides the US. They have partners in MX, Japan, France and – not surprisingly – Germany (these we have used ourselves) plus MANY more countries. When you arrive in a country with a T-mobile partner, you receive a text from them welcoming you, and then magically, your phone works, calls, texts, data, the whole enchilada. It's almost like living in the 21st Century !!

Thanks, Eric! I've updated the post with these tips of yours. Hope you enjoyed/are enjoying CDMX!

It’s a little concerning that you’re downplaying water safety precautions. “Don’t be a wuss. Suck it up and suck up the water?” I work in travel medicine and traveler’s diarrhea is the #1 sickness people get while visiting other countries. Not to mention other food and water borne illnesses like typhoid fever and Hepatitis A that can be difficult to treat in other countries. Most travelers who are new to the area should indeed be taking these precautions seriously. Contracting one of these illnesses can completely ruin one’s trip. Also, your verbiage and choice of words like “suck” and poking fun at unibrows is distasteful.

Thanks for sharing your tastes, Rae. Truly. It helps other readers to have varying opinions.

I love your blogpost and loved Mexico City so much! It was actually nicer than I expected. I thought it would be hectic, dirty and loud, but it was such an amazing city. We stayed in Roma Norte, but this would not be my first choice for my next time, because it has a lively (gay) party scene. I would go to Condesa or Reforma next time. I also recommend getting a creditcard with pesos on it, because they do accept a card in many places. And my final advice: just go!

Amazing blog! Thank you for making me want to visit Mexico right now. I just wanna share I use this website https://www.holidayhare.com/city/mexico-city/4075 to check country/city info like weather, visa requirements etc. before I travel. 🙂

We are planning a trip to Mexico next year, I wanted to check out your airbnb links but they don't seem to be working. Can you provide that info again??

Hi Amanda. Sorry but it seems they're not available anymore, so I've removed them from this post. Thanks for the heads up. Enjoy your stay!

Love this but frustrating that i signed up for a 3 day ecobicci prior to my trip It starts today and expires before i even arrive! I thought it would start on my initiation Maybe you should warm people not to sign up till you are ready to use it

How annoying! Thanks for the warning, Marcia. I've added the heads up to the post.

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Is Mexico City Safe to Visit in 2024? A Local’s Guide

Is Mexico City safe to travel to? You might be worried about safety if you are planning a trip to the Mexican capital this year or in the near future. After all, Mexico on the whole isnt a destination that people necessarily associate with being super safe, and it is often in the media for all the wrong reasons.

In short, yes, Mexico City can be a safe place to visit but you need to take precautions while traveling here just as you do with any major city. You are in good hands here because I have been living in Mexico for the last two and a half years and have spent a lot of time in and around Mexico City. 

In this post, we will cover everything you need to know when planning your trip and how to stay safe during. If you still have any questions at the end, you are welcome to reach out to me.

Table of Contents

Is Mexico City Safe to Visit in 2024?

Historically, many people thought that Mexico City was a bit of a dangerous city. I live in Merida in the Mexican Yucatan and even when I told Mexicans from other parts of Mexico that I was going to CDMX, they were a little concerned. 

For me personally, Mexico City is one of my favorite cities in the world. I have fortunately never felt uncomfortable there or had anything bad happen to me. (And I am a solo female traveler). 

Since the global pandemic, more and more remote workers from across the world have started traveling and moving here, and word about how great the city is has finally gotten out.

Where to stay in Mexico City

There are more than 300 different barrios in Mexico City, each of which has its own unique culture and charm and is like a little independent village in itself. As a first-time visitor, you want to base yourself somewhere central and safe. 

Consider booking a hotel or an Airbnb in the neighborhoods of Polanco, Roma Norte/Sur, Coyoacan, Condesa, Anzares, or Zona Rosa. When booking accommodation, check the reviews that have been left by previous guests and look at the property’s location on the map to make sure that you are not basing yourself in a potentially shady area. 

Polanco and Anzares

The upscale district of Polanco is one of the most exclusive areas in Mexico City. Its tree-lined streets and promenades are lined with designer stores and chic coffee and brunch spots that attract a well-heeled crowd.

There are some gorgeous luxury hotels here like the Wild Oscar and the W Mexico City as well as the contemporary Museo Soumaya which is worth checking out for the architecture alone, even if you don’t consider yourself a “museum person”. 

The leafy, sleepy district of Coyoacan was once its own independent town until it was engulfed by the expansion of CDMX. For decades, it has been the residence of choice for countless artists, writers, and creatives and it isn’t difficult to understand why.

Even acclaimed artist Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera lived here, in Casa Azul, and they would frequent the local Coyoacan market where they would shop for fresh produce for their famous dinner parties.

Think of Coyoacan as the Mexico City answer to New York’s Greenwich Village. It is a little far out of the center but it is safe and easy enough to take Ubers to and from the area. 

Roma Norte/Sur and Condesa 

The Roma and Condesa neighborhoods of Mexico City are known as “barrio magicos” for the special charm and culture they offer. They can be found south of the Paseo de la Reforma and their cobblestone streets boast brightly colored colonial mansions that have been converted into quirky coffee shops, independent art galleries, and boutique stores. 

Over the last few years, this area has become a bit gentrified, but it is simultaneously one of the safest and most popular areas to stay in. 

Zona Rosa 

Zona Rosa is something of a haven for foodie travelers as it is here where you will find many of the best restaurants in town. The district runs close to the sprawling Chapultapec Park, Mexico City’s answer to New Yorks’s Central Park, and the largest urban park in North America.

There is also an interesting part of this barrio called “Pequeña Seoul” or “Little Seoul” because it is home to many authentic Korean restaurants. With tons of stores selling sought-after Korean cosmetics and skincare products and eateries serving DIY Korean barbecue and specialty dishes like bulgogi and bibimbap, this is a nice place to grab food if you have been in Mexico a while and fancy a change. 

Know which areas to avoid

Mexico City is not a city where you can wander around freely, blindly following Google Maps. Even in the historic center, you can easily find that you are in an area that is perfectly safe, take a wrong turn, and wind up somewhere that you really don’t want to be. 

A couple of blocks away from the Palacio de Bellas Artes is Plaza Garibaldi – a small square encircled with bars and restaurants that is known for its mariachi performers. While it is safe during the day, it is sketchy at night, and there are often vans filled with riot police around the block. 

Venture a couple of blocks more and you will end up in the notorious Tepito district – a dangerous marketplace known for being somewhere that criminals go. Always have a set plan of where you want to go and how you are going to get there. 

In particular, you want to exercise caution in or avoid the below areas

Tepito market is a region where most Mexicans, and even the police, will not venture. There is a saying that “you can buy everything in Tepito except your dignity”. Some of the stalls here simply sell fake designer handbags and sneakers, etc but as you go deeper in, it becomes more sinister. 

Guns, drugs, and weapons are for sale. The area is notorious for petty crime and it is known that cartel members come here to hire hitmen. Shootings, drug busts, violent assaults, and robberies have happened here in the past. If you have a phone or a camera in your hand when you enter, you may not leave with it and tourists are really not welcome. So if you come here to try and film something for your Tiktok you will attract a lot of angry looks.

Itzalapapa 

Itzalapapa is a huge barrio in the eastern part of Mexico City that is home to the largest concentration of street art murals in Latin America, as well as a cable car network similar to that in Medellin. Unfortunately, for now, at least, it really is not a safe place to go. 

Crime rates here are extremely high, particularly gender-based violence against women. Femicides and assaults here were so bad, that the government invested in street lights and surveillance to make the main avenue, Ermita Iztapalapa Street, the most illuminated in the world. 

Colonia Doctores 

As a tourist, you might head into Colonia Doctores to catch a lucha libre wrestling match at the Arena Mexico. But you really don’t want to spend any time in this area aside from going directly to and from the arena in an Uber.

Robberies, including armed robberies, happen frequently and even local chilangos consider this a place to avoid. 

Colonia del Valle

Colonia del Valle is an area in the Benito Juarez borough of CDMX that can be interesting to explore by day but is definitely best avoided by night. The barrio has the highest rates of kidnapping in CDMX which is primarily a concern for locals, rather than international tourists, but points to a wider seedy underbelly of the area. 

Ciudad Nezahualcoyotl 

Ciudad Nezahualcoyotl is a vast area east of Mexico City, past the city’s main airport. Truthfully, you are unlikely to find yourself here as a tourist anyway. 

This is one of the poorest areas in the state and while it is unfair to make a sweeping generalization, generally speaking, poverty creates violence, and crime rates across the board are higher here. 

Colonia Populares 

Due to a huge disparity of wealth in Mexico City, the rising cost of living, and an overpopulation problem, informal neighborhoods known as “Colonias Populares” have sprouted up over the city in recent decades. They are generally best avoided as inquisitive tourists are not really welcome, and there is a greater risk of petty theft, etc. 

For instance, from the Palacio Bellas Artes (a very touristic area filled with travelers and police), a five-minute walk takes you to Plaza Garibaldi – a small square known for its live mariachi performers. However, the area between the two squares is not a good neighborhood. 

Centro Historico

Centro is probably the only part of Mexico City that you are likely to visit as a tourist where you need to practice increased caution. Again, common sense is key. Don’t wander down uninviting, sketchy-looking alleyways, and always be aware of your surroundings.  

A lot of homeless people and drug users loiter around the Plaza de la Concepcion and in the streets that veer off from Plaza Garibaldi. 

Crime in Mexico City

Mexico City sees a moderate level of crime and crime has been on the rise here over the last few years. According to a report by Statista, there were 32,078 crimes per 100,000 inhabitants in 2021 and 46,032 crimes per 100,000 inhabitants in 2022 , representing a whopping 43.63% increase year over year. 

Still, the data is arguably skewed by incidents in neighborhoods that you would have no reason to venture into as a tourist (Tepito, Iztapalapa, etc), and clashes between criminal groups. As a tourist, the main things that you need to be concerned about are petty crimes like pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and other opportunistic crimes. 

In 2023, thefts and robberies on the street or on methods of public transport were the main crimes reported which accounted for almost a third of all crimes in the capital. Crimen in Mexico is another interesting reference point and displays a list of the safest and most dangerous places 

A good way to gauge how safe a certain city “feels” is by browsing the crime and safety rates on Numbeo. The site interviews residents of various global cities to determine how safe they feel in the places they live. 

Cities are awarded a safety rating from 0 to 100 where 0 would be very unsafe, and 100 is safe. The Numbeo crime index is rated in a similar way, with 0 meaning few crimes and 100 meaning a high level of crime. 

We can look at this to see how Mexico City compares to other cities in Mexico, the US, and elsewhere in the world. 

Is the cartel in Mexico City?

It is realistic to assume that cartels such as the Sinaloa cartel and Jalisco New Generation cartel have a presence in Mexico City as they do in many cities and states across the country. While you may hear narco-related news from the city occasionally, any conflicts that do happen are generally restricted to instances between members of criminal groups and do not target tourists. 

In some parts of Mexico, including ultra-popular tourist destinations like Cancun and Tulum, there have been instances where tourists were caught up in the crossfire of clashes between cartels and killed by ricocheting bullets. 

There have been no such instances in Mexico City in recent years. The chances of being at the wrong place at the wrong time are fortunately very slim here anyway, but you probably have a greater probability of something happening in Cancun, where cartels are literally fighting over the territory, than in CDMX. 

Check your government travel advice for Mexico City 

I always tell people that they should check their government travel advice before traveling anywhere new for the first time and that includes Mexico. Although it is a bit sternly worded, the US Department of State has a great safety advisory page for Mexico that offers a state-by-state breakdown of what the situation is like in each of the country’s 32 states.

This is a good resource to periodically check before and during your trip as it is updated in real-time to reflect changes in entry requirements, security warnings, etc. There are currently no warnings in place for Mexico City and the wider Estado De Mexico, aside from a general warning to exercise precautions. 

You can also find the Canadian government travel advice for Mexico here , and the UK government travel advice here , although they are somewhat less comprehensive. 

Getting around Mexico City 

During the day, it can be safe and fun to get some steps in and explore Mexico City on foot. To get between different districts, museums, and tourist attractions, you can opt to take an Uber or ride the subway. 

Taking the Subway in Mexico City 

For whatever reason, many tourists are absolutely terrified of using the metro in Mexico City. While it is better to avoid using it at night, particularly in quieter outskirts of town, it is really no more dangerous than taking the subway in other major cities and it is definitely safer than other Latin American subway networks. 

You can get a CDMX metro card known as the “integrated mobility card” for the city’s network of buses, light rails, and metos for just 15 pesos and journeys cost less than a dollar. Watch your belongings as you would anywhere and you will be fine. 

Using Uber in Mexico City

Uber is a great way to get around in Mexico City and in Mexico, locals tend to prefer ridesharing apps over street cabs. There is more accountability via apps like Uber as you can see the driver’s past reviews and journeys, rating, etc.

You should avoid taking random street taxis in Mexico City. Not only are you likely to be ripped off and overcharged, but express kidnappings are a risk here.

This happens when an unsuspecting tourist gets into a cab and the driver locks them in the car and holds them at gun/knife point while forcing them to hand over their valuables and driving them around the city making them make the maximum withdrawal from ATMs. This is not a possibility that you want to entertain, and Uber is considered much safer here. (Plus you have the added benefit of it being cheaper too).

Always double-check the license plate number before you get in the car. When someone accepts your fare, it is a good idea to click on their driver profile and see how many journeys they have done and what their rating is. If someone has done thousands of journeys and they have a rating of 4.9, you can feel pretty comfortable that they are reliable. If they have done very few rides and/or have a low rating, you can cancel and select another driver. 

Is it safe to drive in Mexico City? 

Driving in Mexico City is not unsafe per se, but it can be a bit chaotic, and is perhaps not the best introduction to driving in Mexico if this is your first visit here. Honestly, for most Mexico City itineraries, you really don’t need a car and even taking day trips out from CDMX to places like Teotihuacan and Xochimilco is generally much easier with public transport. 

The city is extremely congested and getting anywhere can mean being stuck in traffic for long periods of time, especially at rush hour. To combat this, CMDX introduced restrictions known as “hoy no circula” which mean that certain vehicles cannot drive during certain hours (and this often includes international/tourist cars since locals need to commute). 

If you are sure that driving here works out convenient for you, there are a few safety pointers that you should keep in mind. 

• Always check Google Maps and be mindful of the route you are being taken. There are some neighborhoods you really don’t want to pass through
• To get to Puebla state and other parts of Mexico, you might need to pass through Itzalapapa. Along the main roads in daylight, this is fine
• Driving at night is generally best avoided in the city and you should never drive interstate/between cities at night, largely because the roads often do not have street lights, making it difficult to see stray animals and hazards
• Drive around with the windows wound up where you can. People often ask for money at stoplights and thefts/crimes are not unheard of
• Never leave anything in your car, even if it isnt something super valuable like a jacket, backpack, etc. Be mindful of where you park your car. 

Take a guided tour to get your bearings

Taking a guided tour is a great way to get your bearings in a new city and it can help you feel a lot more confident if you are nervous about being in Mexico City. Better yet, exploring with a CDMX local means that you have an expert on hand to help you discover districts, markets, and restaurants that you would not have found independently and whom you can ask questions about your itinerary.

From street food tours to history walks, there is something for everyone.

Best Mexico City tours for 2024 and beyond

Tons of reputable tour companies operate in Mexico City and a selection of some of the best tours they offer is summarized below .

Book your places online in advance to avoid disappointment!

• From Mexico City: Teotihuacan air balloon flight and breakfast
• Teotihuacan and Tlatelolco day trip by van
• Mexico City tour: Xochimilco, Coyoacan and Frida Kahlo house
• Mexico City street art bike tour with snacks
• CDMX Authentic downtown food tour
• Mexico City market tour
• Mexico City: Tacos & mezcal night food tour
• San Miguel de Allende day trip from Mexico City
• Puebla, Cholula and Tonantzintla day trip from Mexico City

Is Mexico City safe for solo travelers? 

Mexico City can be a safe destination for solo travelers of all ages, backgrounds and genders. I have traveled to the city numerous times as a solo woman and have never felt uncomfortable. 

The city also has a great Digital Nomad and international social scene so it is very easy to meet like-minded people if you are looking to socialize during your time here. (Check out one of the many Facebook groups dedicated to people living in Mexico City, or seek out a Meetup event). 

Since there are so many different people from different backgrounds and cultures living here, you wont stick out or attract weird looks for being foreign or solo. 

Is Mexico City safe for solo female travelers?

This entire article and website has been written by me, a solo female traveler based in Mexico. I am a big advocate for never letting your gender or physical appearance make you feel that you cannot do something and that includes traveling to Mexico City. 

Violence against women is an issue in Mexico, although I have personally never had anyone act less than chivalrous towards me in real life. Mexican women tend to dress quite modestly here. 

Even during the summer months they wear things like jeans and t-shirts to avoid unwanted attention. It is a good idea to follow suit. 

Since I dress quite feminine, I usually wear things like dresses and stockings with trench coats. Wearing shorts and t-shirts or skimpy summer dresses is a surefire way to attract unwanted attention. 

Earthquakes and natural disasters 

Earthquakes do happen in Mexico from time-to-time and unfortunately Mexico City is one of the worst places for them. The entire country sits in the world’s most seismically active zone known as the “Pacific Ring of Fire”.

Mexico City is particularly susceptible to quakes because it sits on the border of five tectonic plates: the Pacific plate, the Cocos, the North America Plate, the Caribbean plate, and the Rivera plate. Add to that the fact that the city was built on the site of an old, dried-up Aztec lake which is constantly sinking and you have a recipe for disaster and an understanding of why the ground here is often shaking. 

Tremors here are pretty common and if you downloaded a seismic warning app during your time in the city, you would just drive yourself mad with worry because there are small tremors almost daily. Mexico City has had some much larger, destructive quakes though and it pays to read up on what to do in the event of an earthquake. 

A lot of hotels here do have earthquake and evacuation procedures on the walls of their rooms. Many modern buildings in central neighborhoods have been built to withstand quakes. 

Is Mexico City safe at night? 

There are some wonderful speakeasies, cocktail bars and rooftop bars in Mexico City and it would be a shame to miss out on them. You need to practice extra caution at night – take an Uber back to your accommodation rather than walk, watch your alcohol intake and keep an eye on your drinks, etc but a lot of this is mostly common sense.

Practical safety tips for visiting Mexico City

I have summarised some general safety tips for visiting Mexico City below. A lot of these things are good practice wherever you travel but they are worth reiterating here. 

• Don’t venture into known dangerous areas like the Tepito marketplace just to be “brave” or document it for social media. Don’t walk around with your phone or camera out in the open in these areas
• Try not to dress flashy and draw attention to yourself. You will see many well-dressed people in upscale chic Polanco and in the popular neighborhoods of Roma Norte, Sur, and Condesa but elsewhere, leave the designer bags and branded clothing at home
• Don’t wear things like flip flops and shorts and t-shirts as it is a surefire way to stick out as a tourist in Mexico City and attract unwanted attention. (Also because the floors are often gross, especially in the metro stations so wearing open shoes is a no-no)
• Consider purchasing a theft-proof backpack or moneybelt like those offered by Pacsafe , especially if you spend a lot of time in Latin America. These bags are slash-proof and water-proof and come with a TSA-approved mesh locking system as well as other handy security features
• Don’t hesitate to try the street food! Skipping it would mean missing out on a huge part of local food culture. Eating at street food stalls is not always synonymous with getting sick. Choose popular stalls where locals are lining up to be served – it’s a good indicator that it’s a decent place!
• Use Mexico City Facebook groups to connect with locals and expats for any questions you need to ask, recommendations, and if you want to be social and meet people for coffee, etc! 

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance 

It is imperative to purchase comprehensive travel insurance wherever in the world you travel. Unfortunately, even with all the preparation and caution in the world, you can never really know what’s around the corner. 

Purchase a comprehensive policy that has at least $250,000 US dollars worth of medical coverage. Medical bills in Mexico can still quickly add up, even if they are cheaper than in the US and elsewhere.

Always read the small print and ideally, purchase a policy that comes with additional coverage for things like loss/theft of luggage and electronics, cancellations and repatriations.

Be sure to print out/screenshot the first page of your travel insurance plan and keep the policy reference number safe. Should you need assistance overseas, this will be the first thing that you are asked for. 

Can you drink the water in Mexico City?

You cannot drink the water in Mexico City or anywhere in Mexico for that matter. Although the water in Mexico is purified at the source, it often gets contaminated en route to your tap. 

The risk of getting very sick from congesting contaminated water is very high so this is simply not worth the risk. Most hotels will leave a couple of bottles of water in your room each day. 

Some have potable water on-site. If they do, there will be signs saying “agua potable”.

It is a good idea to purchase a reusable water bottle like a Life Straw. These keep your water cool throughout the day and help you minimize plastic waste. 

Just purchase large, multi-liter water bottles from Oxxo, 7/11, or Mexican supermarkets. Then, keep it in your hotel fridge and top up your reusable bottle each day.

Gentrification and attitude to remote workers and expats in Mexico City 

Since the global pandemic, a lot more remote workers have started relocating to Mexico City on both a short and long-term basis. Since people have historically been a little nervous about safety here, international travelers often stick to the same few areas (namely, Condesa, Roma, Polanco) and rent Airbnbs so that they can be safe, central, and close to other expats. 

This has caused rental prices in these areas to soar, to the extent that an unprecedented wave of gentrification through Mexico City is pushing locals out of their barrios where they can no longer afford to live. While this is definitely a global issue, it is new for Mexico. 

A lot of people are not happy about it, and the topic has blown up on social media, encouraging people to plaster aggressive “go home gringo” signs around different areas. This is a sensitive topic, and while we should be ethical travelers, ultimately it is for the government to introduce regulations for Airbnb, etc. 

Try to avoid conversations on this sensitive issue.

Is Mexico City safe? Final thoughts 

Mexico City can be a safe place to travel provided that you take precautions and make your safety your priority. 

Mexico, in general is safe for assertive travelers . Don’t listen to the opinions of people who have never traveled to a destination themselves. You don’t need to hear their ignorant stereotypes or sweeping generalizations about somewhere they haven’t even visited. 

Follow the tips in this post and use the same common sense that you would in any other big city and you will be fine.

Do you have any more questions or concerns about planning your trip? Please dont hesitate to reach out to me via email, social media, or via the comments below.

I will do my best to get back to you as soon as I can. Safe travels and enjoy Mexico.

Buen Viaje! Melissa xo

Melissa Douglas

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Is Mexico City Safe?: Advice for Safety in Mexico City

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: March 10, 2022

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Safety in Mexico City is a concern many travelers have. I’ve been getting this question since I decided I was going to move to Mexico almost four years ago, “Is Mexico City safe?”

It is perhaps the most asked question in my inbox every day, the most asked question on YouTube and Facebook and in my Instagram DM’s.

“My family are worried about me traveling to Mexico City because they say that it’s dangerous, what do you think?”

The truth of the matter is that I have been living happily and safely in Mexico City for over four years. I look over my shoulder more in the US and some parts of Europe than I ever do when I’m back home in Mexico City.

Sure, there are problems, like any major city. There are over 20 million people and there can be trouble, but it’s also quite easy to avoid trouble. Below I give you all the ways that you can stay safe in Mexico City and enjoy your trip (or your move to Mexico City !).

Is Mexico City Safe?

The biggest safety issue you’ll have in mexico city: pickpocketing.

Like any big city, pickpocketing can be an issue here in Mexico. My advice for men is to keep your belongings in your FRONT pockets.

This way you can keep your hands in you pockets on your phone and wallet and you won’t have a problem. This is exactly what my boyfriend does and he has never been pickpocketed either here in Mexico City or elsewhere.

For women, I recommend having a bag that at least has a full zipper. This way you always have your bag completely closed.

The problem with bags that only have a snap close or a pull-string closing is that they are easy for someone to very quickly stick there hand in, grab something and you probably wouldn’t even notice if it was very busy.

I usually use a normal leather bag that sips full and I make sure my phone and wallet are at the bottom with something like a sweater or a water bottle over the top so it’s not very easy to grab.

The few places that you should be most vigilant about pickpocketers are on public transportation, in the Zocalo (main square), along Calle Madero (the pedestrian street in the Centro Historico), and inside markets where it’s very bust and people are constantly brushing past.

Is Drinking Water Safe in Mexico City?

You should avoid drinking water in Mexico City. I have a whole article about it which you can read here: drinking water in Mexico .

The water itself is safe to drink in most parts of the city, but unfortunately, it’s the old pipes and tanks that make the water not very safe.

I use it to brush my teeth, wash dishes, and clean fruits/vegetables, to make coffee and tea, and to cook with. I simply do not use it to drink. 

There is NO NEED to avoid ice in Mexico City. All restaurants around the city only used filtered water and most actually get their ice delivered each day. Ice is not made with tap water here.

Trust me, on those hot days when you stop for lunch, you’re going to want some ice in your agua fresca to keep it cool!

How to Avoid Food Poisoning: Food Safety in Mexico City

The only time I ever had food poisoning here in Mexico City was after a bowl of ramen at a popular Japanese restaurant.

Street food in Mexico City is a great option because it is cooked fresh to order, the meat is searing hot, and there aren’t many fresh ingredients that were perhaps washed in unclean water. The tacos in the city are some of the best you’ll have anywhere in Mexico.

Look for street stalls and restaurants that are busy, that have a high turnover, and that are cooking their meat to order.

It’s worth noting that Mexicans tend to eat lunch much later than we do in the US or the UK. Most lunch places won’t get busy until around 2:30 or 3pm. So if you head to a restaurant at 12:30 for lunch and it’s not busy, that doesn’t mean it’s not good, it’s just not lunchtime yet.

Check out some of my favorite places to eat in this post , this post , or in my guidebook !

The Safest Way to Get Around Mexico City at Night

If you are concerned about getting around Mexico City safely at night, I highly recommend using Uber or Didi.

I use it to get to and from the airport, to get around the city when I’m going between neighborhoods that are too far to walk, and I always use it at night.

I have never had a bad experience with Uber (other than sometimes when I book an Uber and they just cancel for no reason before arriving). Here in Mexico City it is definitely the safest options.

I have a very comprehensive post about using Uber in Mexico if you have any questions.

I don’t really recommend walking around at night unless you are in populated residential neighborhoods like Condesa, Roma or Polanco.

I regularly walk around at night with friends or my boyfriend in these neighborhoods without a problem.

However, if you plan to travel between the neighborhoods or you’re going to be alone, I always just hop in an Uber. Nothing has ever happened that has caused me to act this way, but I just think it’s a smart precaution in any large city.

Public Transportation Safety in Mexico City

I use public transportation, particularly the metro and metrobuses very frequently here in Mexico City.

While it can become very crowded during peak times (7-9am and 5-7pm), during the day and on the weekends it’s a cheap and easy way to get around.

Read my full guide to using the metro here: Everything You Need to Know About Using the Mexico City Metro

One of the things I love about using the metro versus metro buses is that there are women-only cars on every metro train.

Look for the signs that say “mujeres” or “damas” and then as a woman traveling alone or with small children, you can use these cars.

Taxis Versus Ubers for Safety (and Ease)

Why should I use Uber instead of taxis? It’s a question people ask me a lot and in my opinion, there’s no comparison.

Taxis in Mexico City don’t often use meters, they don’t speak any English, and they don’t use a navigation system of any kind.

This means that if they don’t know the best way to get to where you want to go and YOU don’t know the best route to take to get there, that it could take a while to get to where you want to go.

It also means you need to negotiate the price before you get in. And finally, taxis are almost always more expensive than Uber.

I use Uber because it means I don’t have to carry cash with me. All drivers have nice new cars and they all have to use a navigation system whether it’s Google Maps or Waze.

It’s the best option for travelers who are visiting the city and don’t speak much Spanish because the app already tells the driver where you’re going. It’s almost always the cheaper option.

Safety in Mexico City for Solo Female Travelers?

Everyone warned me before I moved to Mexico how much I’d be wolf-whistled in Latin America.

To be honest, I am heckled more as a woman in New York than I ever am in Mexico. I have never ever been wolf-whistled while in Mexico whether I’m with my boyfriend or not. 

While I’m not saying being a solo woman here in Mexico City is easy, it isn’t the horror show that many paint.

On the metro, there are women-only cars which I ride whenever I’m traveling around the city by myself. There are actually police who regularly go through the cars to make sure there are no men and if there are they politely ask them to move cars.

The exception that I’ve seen is that often old men and young boys are allowed because there is more seating available or they’re with their mothers/grandmothers.

I dress somewhat conservatively in Mexico City because it’s a slightly more conservative city than the beach-towns around Mexico. You can read my Mexico City packing list here. 

Earthquake Safety in Mexico City

If you’ve been following the news about Mexico City at all in the last few years, you’ll know that in 2017, there was a large earthquake that shook the city. Many buildings collapsed and unfortunately, quite a few people were killed.

There is always a risk of earthquakes in Mexico. It is littered with active volcanos and shares a fault line with California. 

However, the city is slightly more prepared now than they ever have been.

There is an alarm that sounds roughly one minute before an earthquake is expected to shake the ground.

Hotels all over the city have been required to get certifications that say the buildings are not only sound, but that they are “earthquake proof,” which means that they can withstand the shaking and they will move with the motion of the waves. 

If it is a large concern for you, I recommend downloading an earthquake app called Skyalert ( Android and Apple ).

These notify you if there is an earthquake and are supposedly very accurate about warning you before it actually hits (thanks to sensors in the nearby ocean).

Air Quality in Mexico City

Unfortunately, the longer I have lived here in Mexico City, the worse the air quality has become.

I recently read an article that said since January 1st of 2019, there have been only 9 days of “clean air.” The city has an app that allows you to track air quality. It’s called Aire ( Android or Apple ).

It’s run by the Mexico City government and is updated every few minutes with the air quality. Green is safe, yellow is slightly polluted, orange is dangerous for sensitive groups, and red is stay home.

It’s never been red, but there are more and more days in the orange and this affects anyone really with allergies or asthma.

I get a very dry throat and very itchy eyes. I use eye drops almost every day during the spring months when pollution is worst. 

If you want to avoid the pollution, the best time to come is towards the end of the wet season in September or October or right after it ends in November and December. These are the cleanest months of the year for air quality thanks to the rain clearing it all away.

Buses to Other Parts of Mexico

If you plan to travel around more of Mexico while you are here, you may want to consider taking a bus to Puebla , San Miguel de Allende or even as far as Oaxaca (although I recommend flying there if you’re short on time).

There are four bus stations around Mexico City – an eastern, western, northern and southern terminal. If you are traveling east, you head to the eastern bus terminal and so on. I have a more detailed post about traveling by bus here: Transportation in Mexico City .

These are incredibly safe options, but there are a few things to keep an eye out for.

Be sure to take first-class or premium buses. Local buses stop a lot along the way. In the past, this meant that anyone could just get on the bus and steal from the people on the bus. Premium buses only stop at major bus stations.

I always use the ADO app ( Android and Apple ) and pre-book my bus tickets.

Read all about taking buses in Mexico here.

This allows me to find out which bus station to go to. It means I know exactly what time I need to get to the bus station. And usually, you save a bit of money by booking in advance.

ADO is the most reputable bus company in the country (they also own ECC) and it a very safe option for getting around the country. Other companies that you’ll find around Mexico a lot are ETN and Primera Plus.

How to Keep Your Valuables Safe in Mexico City

If you plan to stay in the main tourist neighborhoods (Centro Historico, Polanco, Roma, Condesa) then there is no reason that you need to hide your valuables.

I regularly explore the city wearing my favorite necklace, holding my DSLR camera and taking Instagram photos with my iPhone and in the three years I’ve been here I have never, ever had a problem.

Just be aware of who is around you and don’t make it easy for someone to snatch your belongings.

If you head to busier neighborhoods or onto public transportation, just keep the tips in mind that I mention about pickpocketing and you’ll be fine.

Safety in Other Parts of Mexico

If you are traveling to other parts of Mexico and want to learn more about their safety, I have written extensively about the country in general and a few other locations.

• The 10 Safest Cities in Mexico
• Is Tijuana Safe to Travel?

Tips to Help You Enjoy Your Trip and Stay Out of Trouble

These tips are mostly obvious, but I want to reiterate them for anyone who wants to ensure they have a safe and enjoyable trip to Mexico City.

• Stay away from drugs of any kind
• Be aware of your belongings, particularly in busy places like the metro, the Zocalo, and the buses.
• Learn at least a little bit of Spanish (this will just help you in general, but especially if there is a problem of some kind)
• Keep things zipped up or in enclosed pockets
• Consider getting travel insurance . It covers not only any emergencies but also if anything valuable is stolen. I always use it to cover my camera, lenses, and laptop when I travel. I’ve been using World Nomads for almost ten years and still believe it’s the best option out there. Get a quote here .

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Matthew Hyatt

Thursday 23rd of May 2019

Thank you for this. As Americans we have been SO LIED TO about other countries and cities. My home city in Kentucky has murders and thefts and rapes daily it seems. I’m so glad that others will go and spread the truth about wonderful places! I came here curious if it really was safe. So happy to read this!

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11 Tips for Traveling Safely in Mexico

See recent posts by Toby Orton

With a vibrant culture, thriving cities, incredible food, ancient ruins, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world , it’s no surprise that Mexico attracts such a huge number of travelers every year. But while the country is safe on the whole, the U.S. Department of State marks it as a Level 2 on its travel advisory scale, meaning visitors are encouraged to “exercise increased caution,” particularly when venturing beyond major tourist resorts. News reports of drug-related violence, cartel control, and lawless territory are enough to make even the most seasoned traveler pause before booking a trip, but arriving with some safety tips is a solid way to keep your vacation free of trouble. From simple common sense to region-specific pointers, here are 11 tips on how to travel safely in Mexico.

Hotels in this story

1. Research the area you plan to visit.

Capilla del Cerrito, Mexico City/Oyster

There are certainly some no-go areas for tourists in Mexico. States like Tamaulipas, Sinaloa, Colima, Guerrero, and Michoacan have a Level 4 “do not travel” travel warning, according to the U.S. Department of State . Violent crime — such as murder, armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping — as well as gang activity are among the concerns noted for these regions. Meanwhile, Quintana Roo (which includes tourist hot spots like Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Riviera Maya) and Mexico City both have a Level 2 advisory — the same number given to countries such as Italy and Germany. For more information on safety in Mexico City, check out our full story here .

2. Make copies of important travel documents.

Make copies of all important travel documents before departing for Mexico. Holding on to your identification might come in handy, in case of any problems, and carrying the original version is bound to weigh on your mind, especially in tourist areas that attract pickpockets. 

3. Be wary of what you eat and drink.

Mercado Coyoacan, Mexico City/Oyster

It’s important to be cautious about where and what you consume in Mexico. From swanky establishments to sidewalk vendors, food safety is a concern. Street food is a large part of Mexico’s appeal, but wherever your culinary tour takes you, stick to stalls with long lines filled with tourists and locals. Also, take bottled water wherever you go and avoid tap water. 

4. Keep a list of important emergency numbers.

Mexico used to have separate numbers for police, fire, and ambulance services, but last year, the country started using the same 911 system as the U.S. This makes things easier for emergencies, but having the number of the local American consulate on hand is another way to travel smart. 

5. Drink in moderation.

Barra Alipus, Mexico City/Oyster

Combine being on vacation with staying in an all-inclusive resort with the fact that you’re in a country in which tequila is practically the national drink, and you have a recipe for excess. Drink in moderation (particularly if you’re a solo traveler), never accept drinks from strangers, and avoid walking back to your hotel drunk and alone after dark. Sure, this seems like common sense, but after a few shots, your awareness checks out.

6. Use toll highways and stay off roads at night.

Avoid being in the wrong place at the wrong time by staying away from places where crimes are committed during the hours in which they are most likely to occur. Kidnappings and carjackings are an issue in some areas of Mexico, so avoid driving at night and stick to major toll roads when traveling from place to place. 

7. Stick to registered taxis.

Beach at Encantada Tulum/Oyster

If you’re happy just experiencing a pristine beach and poolside margaritas, then a resort is probably the safest way to enjoy a trip to Mexico. Tons of resorts, especially those that are all-inclusives , have all you need to enjoy a vacation without having to leave the property. Plus, depending on where you stay, many hotels — in areas like Tulum , for instance — come with charming decor that complements their top-notch amenities.  

10. Don’t share your travel itinerary or hotel details.

Tourists aren’t generally at risk of being kidnapped in Mexico. This particular crime typically affects foreign nationals working in the country or those with family residents who can pay a ransom. Even so, be careful not to share your travel itinerary to avoid opportunist crimes.

11. Wear a money belt (and don’t carry valuable items).

Ferry to Cozumel/Oyster

Pickpockets can be rife in even the most relaxed resort towns, so keep your valuables close to your chest — literally. While wearing a money belt might seem a little paranoid, it will keep you safe from scams. Another simple way to avoid having your valuables stolen is to not carry them at all. Leave that expensive watch or pair of diamond earrings at home. Even hotel safes can sometimes be compromised, depending on the establishment.

You’ll Also Like:

• 10 Vital Travel Safety Tips From a Former CIA Officer
• 7 Solo Safety Tips to Travel By
• 12 Rookie Mistakes to Avoid in Mexico City

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Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico? Here’s What You Need to Know.

A spate of incidents, including a kidnapping and the death of two Americans near the border, have prompted travel warnings from the U.S. government.

By Elisabeth Malkin and Isabella Kwai

Two Americans found dead after they were attacked and kidnapped near the border. Airports shuttered amid gang violence in Sinaloa. Turmoil among taxi drivers in Cancún.

A number of recent security incidents have raised concerns about the risks of traveling to Mexico, where more than 20 million tourists flew last year to visit the country’s beaches, cities and archaeological sites, or to obtain health care .

Ahead of the spring break holiday, a popular time for American tourists to visit the country, the U.S. Embassy issued a travel alert , urging visitors to exercise caution by avoiding dangerous situations and drinking responsibly, among other recommendations. “Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations,” the alert said. And the State Department has warned tourists to steer clear of six states, including the state of Tamaulipas, where the recent kidnapping occurred — and to exercise increased precautions in other popular destinations like Playa del Carmen, Cancún, Tulum and Mexico City.

An overwhelming majority of visitors enjoy a safe vacation in Mexico, and tourists are largely sheltered from the violence that grips local communities. But the attack and kidnapping of four Americans in the border city of Matamoros, two of whom were later found dead, along with recent disorder in Cancún and violence in early January that forced the closure of three airports in northwest Mexico, is prompting questions about whether the country’s broader unrest is spilling into other destinations.

What happened on the border?

On March 3, four Americans from South Carolina traveling in a white minivan crossed the border from Brownsville, Texas, into the city of Matamoros, in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas. One of the Americans was scheduled for cosmetic surgery.

Soon after the Americans crossed the border, gunmen fired on their vehicle and then abducted the group in a pickup truck. Officials later said that two of the group were found dead at a rural location alongside the other two, who had survived.

The Americans were attacked as a result of “confusion,” according to Irving Barrios, the state prosecutor in Tamaulipas. Matamoros has a long history of violence and highway shootouts, though that reputation has partially subsided in recent years. Then, in late February, one gang moved into the city to wrest control of drug sales from another, said Eduardo Guerrero, the director of Lantia Intelligence , a security consulting company in Mexico City.

“There are places in the country where the situation can change abruptly from one week to another,” he said. While the motives in the attack remain unclear, the Americans had “very bad luck,” Mr. Guerrero said, because they likely stumbled into a battle between the two gangs.

What happened earlier this year in Cancún?

Uber has been challenging the taxi unions for the right to operate in Cancún and won a court decision in its favor on Jan. 11. The ruling infuriated the powerful unions, which are believed to have links to local organized crime figures and former governors. Taxi drivers then began harassing and threatening Uber drivers.

The conflict generated widespread attention after a video of taxi drivers forcing a Russian-speaking family out of their rideshare car went viral, and after unions blocked the main road leading to Cancún’s hotel zone. That prompted the U.S. Embassy in Mexico to issue a security alert .

Mr. Guerrero said that the authorities will try to negotiate some kind of compromise, but there was a probability of more violence ahead.

Have authorities curbed violence that might affect tourists?

As a rule, criminals in Mexico are careful not to kill tourists, Mr. Guerrero explained, because doing so “can set in motion a persecution that can last years,” the consequences of which can be “very dissuasive,” he said.

But the rule doesn’t always hold. And in two popular destinations for foreign tourists — Los Cabos , at the tip of the Baja California peninsula, and the Caribbean coast — local and state officials have recently sought help from the United States to take on organized crime that threatened to drive off tourists.

A spasm of violence at the end of 2021 and early 2022 rattled the tourist industry along the Riviera Maya, the 80-mile strip of Caribbean resorts south of Cancún. Two visitors were killed in crossfire between local gangs in Tulum; a gunfight on a beach in Puerto Morelos sent tourists running for cover into a nearby hotel; a hit man gained entry to a luxury hotel in Playa del Carmen and killed two Canadian tourists believed to have links to organized crime.

The federal government sent National Guard units to patrol the beaches, and Quintana Roo state authorities asked U.S. law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration, to provide intelligence, Mr. Guerrero said. Local authorities, flush with tourism revenues, invested in the police, which is typically the weakest link in Mexican law enforcement.

The joint approach led to a lull in gangland gun battles in Quintana Roo’s tourist areas, and experts say that drug sales to meet foreign demand no longer take place on the street, although they are continuing more discreetly.

The success in tamping down drug violence in Quintana Roo follows a similar improvement in Los Cabos a couple of years ago when U.S. authorities also collaborated with local officials in the state of Baja California Sur. The murder rate soared in Los Cabos in 2017 amid cartel wars, and although tourists were not targeted, that year police chased gunmen into the lobby of a luxury hotel in San José del Cabo, and a cooler containing two heads was left in a tourist area.

What about tourist areas in other states?

Even in states where crime is very high, tourist areas have generally been spared. San Miguel de Allende, a haven for U.S. retirees, is an island of relative peace in a state, Guanajuato, that has been riddled with cartel violence .

The Pacific Coast state of Jalisco, home to the resort of Puerto Vallarta, picturesque tequila country and the cultural and gastronomic attractions of the state capital, Guadalajara , is also the center of operations of the extremely violent Jalisco New Generation Cartel . The cartel’s focus of violence is in the countryside; Puerto Vallarta and the beaches to its north, including the exclusive peninsula of Punta Mita and the surfers’ hangout of Sayulita, are all booming — and, despite drug sales, the cartel’s control seems to limit open conflict.

Mexico City has become a magnet for digital nomads and shorter term visitors , and concerns about violence there have receded. The city’s police force has been successful in reducing violent crime, particularly homicides, and the number of killings has been cut almost in half over the past three years.

Are there any other safety concerns?

Street crime is still a problem almost everywhere, especially in bigger cities and crowded spaces. Kidnapping and carjacking are a risk in certain regions and many businesses that cater to tourists operate under extortion threats. While tourists may not be aware of underlying criminal forces, their power sometimes spills out into the open in spectacular shows of violence.

The attack in Matamoros is only the most recent example. Mexican border cities, which have long endured waves of violence, are not typically tourist destinations, although Americans often cross the border to visit family, seek out cheaper health care or dine at restaurants.

Three airports in the state of Sinaloa, including the beach destination Mazatlán, were closed on Jan. 5 amid gang violence after Mexican security forces arrested Ovidio Guzmán López, a son of Joaquín Guzmán Loera, the crime lord known as El Chapo, who is serving a life sentence in the United States. A stray bullet fired by cartel gunmen shooting at a Mexican military plane as it landed at the airport in the state capital, Culiacán, clipped an Aeromexico plane preparing to take off for Mexico City. Nobody was hurt and the plane returned to the terminal.

In August, gunmen positioned burning cars and buses to block roads around Guadalajara in response to a military raid on a meeting of criminal bosses. In October, a local politician was shot and killed in an upscale steakhouse in suburban Guadalajara as terrified diners crawled to safety.

Pierre de Hail, the president of Janus Group Mexico, a risk management company in Monterrey, is skeptical that security has improved. “There is too much random risk,” he said. “It’s all about being in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

What precautions should tourists take?

Mr. de Hail recommends researching the resort and news from the area you’re visiting. The U.S. State Department provides state-by-state information about travel risks in Mexico. As of early March, the department had issued its strongest possible warning — Level 4: Do Not Travel — for six states, including Tamaulipas and Sinaloa. Quintana Roo and Baja California Sur are at Level 2, indicating that visitors should exercise increased caution. (By comparison, the same Level 2 advisory is applied to France and Spain.)

The Matamoros incident shows how violence can flare up in places that have been quiet recently. Mr. Guerrero suggests searching on the internet before traveling for news of recent outbreaks.

Mr. de Hail also suggests buying travel insurance in case of a medical emergency or theft, and recommends that tourists keep a low profile to avoid attracting attention, he said, warning that it is easy to misread situations.

As anywhere, common sense should prevail, Mr. de Hail said: Don’t wear expensive watches or jewelry, and avoid dark and deserted places. He recommends making a copy of your passport, remaining alert while walking home at night and not leaving your drinks unattended. “I have had numerous cases of people asking for help because they were extorted coming back from bars,” he said.

He added: “If you’re staying in a place that has a report of strikes or demonstrations, don’t go there. You’re a fish out of water.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Isabella Kwai is a breaking news reporter in the London bureau. She joined The Times in 2017 as part of the Australia bureau. More about Isabella Kwai

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How to get around Mexico City

Nov 2, 2023 • 6 min read

Mexico City has loads of ways to get around, including cycling © ©fitopardo / Getty images

Mexico City is one of the most culturally jam-packed cities in the world. It's also one of the largest and most heavily populated, stretching around 50km across and filled home to more than 20 million people. 

Knowing how to get around the Mexican capital will help you get more out of your time in North America’s biggest city . Here are some tips for doing it as efficiently as possible.

The subway is cheap, popular and an efficient way to get around

Mexico City’s subway is one of the cheapest and most popular ways to get around. With 12 lines and 195 stations, an estimated 5.5 million people travel on it each weekday – and during peak times (7–9:30 am and 5–7:30 pm) it can certainly feel like it. 

More than just a way to get from A to B, the subway stations in Mexico City sometimes have things to do. Hidalgo and Bellas Artes stations have murals and art galleries with exhibitions; there’s a cinema at Zapata, and Pino Suárez has an ancient Aztec temple as part of the station.

Tips for taking the subway : Due to crowding, passengers are prohibited from carrying large travelers’ backpacks or suitcases. The first three carriages of the metro are reserved exclusively for women and children. 

You won’t need a car, especially during rush hour

Ask anyone living in Mexico City about getting around and they will be quick to complain about grid-locked traffic.

Car rental is not recommended. The city is one of the most congested in the world, with drivers spending an average of 132 hours stuck in traffic in 2022 alone. The last thing you want to do on your trip is waste time sitting in a bottleneck, so avoid traveling by car or taxi in the mid-morning, mid-afternoon and early-evening rushes.

Take taxis at night

Sometimes you might want the comfort of a cab, especially at night. Flag down one of the unmistakable white-and-pink official taxis or use a ride-hailing app like Uber, Cabify, or DiDi to get around.

With dedicated lanes, the bus is quick and affordable 

Mexico City has a highly developed bus network. Thousands of buses and peseros operate from around 5am till 10pm daily, depending on the route.

Electric trolleybuses (trolebús) generally run until 11:30 pm. Only a few routes run all night, notably those along Paseo de la Reforma.  Here are the different types of busses:

Peseros (also called microbúses or combis) are gray-and-green minibusses operated by private firms. They follow fixed routes, often starting or ending at metro stations, and will stop at virtually any street corner. Route information is randomly displayed on cards attached to the windshield. 

Fares are M$5 for trips of up to 3 miles (5km), and M$5.50 for 3 to 7 miles (5-12km). Add 20% to all fares between 11 pm and 6 am. Privately run green-and-yellow buses charge M$6 and M$7 for the same distances. A useful resource for route planning with the confusing number of peseros is the ViaDF website .

The metrobús is a wheelchair-accessible long bus that stops at metro-style stations in the middle of the street, spaced at three- to four-block intervals. Access is by prepaid smart card, issued by machines for M$10 at the entrance to the platforms, and rides cost M$6.

The rechargeable cards, which can also be used for the metro, are placed on a sensor device for entry. During crowded peak hours, the metrobús is a favorite for pickpockets. The front of the bus is for women and children only, marked out with pink seating. Most metrobús lines run from 5 am to midnight. 

Top tip for the metrobús: Línea 7 is a red double-decker that rides along Paseo de la Reforma from Plaza Garibaldi, passing key sights like Monumento a la Revolución, Zona Rosa and Reforma, El Ángel, Bosque de Chapultepec, Castillo de Chapultepec, Museo Tamayo and Museo de Antropología, terminating a stop after Auditorio Nacional.

Closed on Sundays 6:30 am to 2 pm between Chapultepec and Auditorio (including Antropología), as the avenue becomes a bicycle-only zone for the Paseo Dominical.

Municipally operated trolebúses (trolleybuses) and full-sized cream-and-orange buses (labeled ‘RTP’) only pick up at bus stops. Fares are M$2 (M$4 for the express) regardless of distance traveled and they only accept preloaded travel cards (as used on the metro and metrobús), no cash.

Trolleybuses follow a number of the key ejes (priority roads) throughout the rest of the city. They generally run until 11:30 pm. Route maps are on the trolleybus website . 

Try cycling on a Sunday

Bicycles can be a viable way to get around town and are often preferable to overcrowded, recklessly driven buses. Although careless drivers and potholes can make Mexico City cycling an extreme sport, if you stay alert and keep off the major thoroughfares, it’s manageable. The city government has encouraged bicycle use, with more bicycle-only lanes, and it’s definitely catching on.

Each Sunday (save the last Sunday of the month) the Muévete en Bici program transforms a number of major streets, such as Paseo de la Reforma, into a 57km car-free route for thousands of cyclists, dog walkers and rollerbladers to roam. Closed off to all motorized traffic from 8 am to 2 pm, it’s a great way to take in the city’s main sites.

Use the public bicycle hire system Ecobici to grab a bike from one of the 503 stations distributed across 71 neighborhoods . You will need to register online or in the Ecobici app by linking your Integrated Mobility Card and then purchase a plan for one, three or seven days (M$118; M$234; M$391 respectively for unlimited 45-minute rides. Use the app’s map to locate your nearest bike dock.

Float over the city in a cable car

In 2012, the new Cablebús system opened with two lines. The first goes from Indios Verdes to the northern neighborhoods of Cuautepec and Tlalpexco. It has halved transport time into the city center for residents and attracted tourists to this outlying area.

 The second line connects the southeastern zones of Constitución de 1917 and Santa Marta. At more than 10km in length, it’s the longest public cable car line in Latin America. For M$7 you can glide in a gondola 100 feet above the traffic-laden streets whilst taking in incredible sweeping views of valleys and volcanoes.

Accessible transportation in Mexico City 

Getting around Mexico City can be quite an undertaking for anyone, let alone for the more than 500,000 residents who live with a disability . The subway, for example, has notoriously limited facilities. 

The most accessible public transport system by far is the Metrobús, which has priority boarding areas, elevators and ramps across almost all stations.

Many of the buses are level with the platforms to allow for easy boarding and have preferential seating and spaces for wheelchairs. 

Another accessible way around the city is with Turibús, the bus tour service that offers fun and fuss-free trips around the Centro Histórico, Polanco and Chapultepec Park.

All buses have fold-down ramps and at least two reserved spaces for wheelchair users. The weekly Sunday cycle route is also a very inclusive and accessible experience for all. 

Transport passes

Given the perpetual traffic issues in Mexico City, making the public transport system more appealing has become a key priority for officials.

The prepaid Tarjeta de Movilidad Integrada (Integrated Mobility Card) was introduced in 2019 allowing travelers to travel on trains, buses, cable cars and bikes using a single card.

Purchase the card at a ticket office or machine in any metro or Metrobús station for M$15 and top up as you go.

This article was first published Jun 17, 2021 and updated Nov 2, 2023.

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12 Tips for Safe Travel in Mexico

Places to avoid, including acapulco, and other precautions to ensure a wonderful trip.

The image some may have of Mexico as a dangerous country with a drug cartel on every corner is far from the reality. Millions of U.S. citizens travel safely to Mexico each year, and the Mexican government puts a priority on making tourist areas secure.

Still, with the State Department urging travelers to “exercise increased caution” in the country due to crime, it’s a good idea to take some precautions to minimize your risk of encountering a problem.

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1. Choose your destination carefully

Though the State Department’s “increased caution,” or Level 2, travel advisory covers much of the country, it considers come areas, such as Guadalajara, more risky — Level 3 (“reconsider travel”).

And it suggests avoiding travel — Level 4 (“do not travel”) — in five Mexican states, including Guerrero, home to the Acapulco and Ixtapa tourist meccas.   

The relatively low Level 2 advisory suggested for the rest of the country covers San Miguel de Allende; the Riviera Maya, including Playa del Carmen; and Cabo San Lucas in Baja California, where “petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas.” Check travel.state.gov for the latest updates for every part of the country.

2. Register your trip with the State Department’s STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program)

This allows you to receive updates on your destination and enables State Department personnel to locate you in case of an emergency. Also look up and keep handy the phone number for the nearest U.S. consulate before you go, in case you need help. Having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, theft or other possible calamities is advisable.

3. If you’re an extremely cautious traveler, consider an all-inclusive resort or a cruise

In addition to having a single fee cover most of your vacation, all-inclusives typically allow only guests and employees inside a gated area. And cruise ships generally call at busy, well-guarded ports.

In 2017 and 2018, three dozen all-inclusive resorts in Mexico allegedly served tainted alcohol that sickened hundreds and killed at least several, according to a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel investigation. That issue appears to have been addressed, although it isn’t a bad idea to watch what you drink or stick to cans or bottled beverages opened in front of you.

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4. Think twice about renting a car

Driving can be risky in Mexico. It’s possible to be stopped by police demanding bribes, slangily called mordidas (“bites” in Spanish). And your auto insurance policy may not cover you there. Experts advise having a policy for your trip that includes uninsured motorists, as well as bail: If you’re involved in a crash, both drivers can be detained, and even jailed, until fault is determined. Also, it’s not smart to drive at night, because of the greater chance of robbery at a makeshift checkpoint, carjacking or collisions on dark roads.

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5. Monitor what you eat and drink

Whether it’s the discomfort of  “turista” diarrhea or more serious food poisoning, no one wants to spend vacation time in a bathroom or clinic. Rule 1 is not to drink water unless you’re sure it’s been filtered or purified (the same rule applies to ice). Water in a bottle with an unbroken seal is safest.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises eating food that is cooked and served hot; avoid salads or raw vegetables that could have been rinsed in contaminated water or handled by someone who didn’t wash hands properly. It’s not a bad idea to stick to fruit you peel, such as bananas. Wash hands often or use hand sanitizer.

6. Get vaccinated and consider bringing medication

The CDC also advises getting hepatitis A vaccine to protect against the effects of contaminated food or drink, and suggests a typhoid vaccine, especially for adventurous eaters and those going to small cities or rural areas. Pack over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medicine. Savvy travelers also carry an antibiotic such as Cipro for debilitating bacterial attacks. If you get sick, stay hydrated to avoid hospitalization for IV treatment.

7. Pack a copy of your passport and credit cards

Or you can photograph them and save the images on your cellphone. Keep tabs on credit and debit card transactions so you can catch any fraudulent charges or withdrawals.

8. Bring more cash than you think you’ll need

Should you require emergency medical attention, it’s not unusual for a doctor or hospital to demand payment in cash. Though the peso is the official currency, dollars are often welcomed.

9. Leave the bling at home

Flaunting costly jewelry and watches is an invitation to be relieved of them.

10. Secure your valuables

Don’t leave anything valuable in your hotel room, unless it’s in a safe. This is a good rule of thumb no matter where you travel, but with poverty rife in Mexico, iPads and pricey headphones make tempting targets. And, of course, always stash your passport in your hotel’s safe (room or front desk).

11. Be careful when cabbing

Try to use only taxis that are official. If in doubt, ask a hotel or restaurant staffer to call one. Cabs aren’t always metered, so before you get into one, ask how much the trip will cost (hotel and restaurant staffers should be able to help if there’s a language barrier). Try bargaining if you feel the quoted fare is too high. Uber ride hailing, where available, generally is considered safe.

12. Don’t let tequila drown your judgment

Keep your wits about you. Don’t accept drinks from strangers, and be suspicious of unsolicited attempts to befriend you.

One final note: Keep these warnings in perspective. Mexicans in general are friendly and hospitable to Americans — even in the wake of friction between the two governments. “Everyone we’ve encountered has been welcoming,” says Wisconsin native Laura Bly, who lives part of the year in San Miguel de Allende and travels around the country. So take precautions, then clap along to a mariachi band or two and enjoy your stay.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on February 13, 2017. It was updated to reflect the current State Department recommendations for travel in Mexico.

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Mexico City   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Torresigner | Getty Images

Getting Around Mexico City

The best way to get around Mexico City is via Uber or a taxi. The metro is another option. Not only is it fairly clean and quick, but you can ride for approximately $0.25. Plus, most popular tourist attractions are easily accessible by train. Several different types of buses motor through the main square ( el Zócalo ) and its busiest streets – they are also an affordable option.

Taxis are slightly more expensive, but they are a hassle-free means of getting to the city center from the Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX), which is about 6 miles east of the Centro Histórico. Uber is a safe and more affordable way to navigate the city. Driving yourself is not a great idea – either to and from the airport or around town.

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The 8 Safest Places in Mexico for Travelers

Ed Hewitt started traveling with his family at the age of 10 and has since visited dozens of countries on six continents. He wrote for IndependentTraveler.com for more than 20 years, producing hundreds of columns on travel and offering his expertise on radio and television. He is now a regular contributor to SmarterTravel.

An avid surfer and rower, Ed has written about and photographed rowing competitions around the world, including the last five Olympic Games.

He's passing his love of travel on to the next generation; his 10-year-old son has flown some 200,000 miles already.

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“Is my destination safe?” It’s a question many American travelers have asked themselves as they pour over the State Department’s travel advisories and color-coded maps .

Mexico is a vast country, with heaps of beautiful and interesting places to see, and some 28 million Americans safely travel there each year. To help you plan your own trip, I’ve gathered some of the safest places to visit in Mexico, complete with information on why you should go and where to stay.

The Safest Places in Mexico

Keep in mind that incidents can happen even in the safest places in Mexico, and destinations that don’t appear on this list could still be great spots for a vacation. No matter where you go while traveling abroad, you’ll want to follow common-sense rules such as drinking only in moderation, getting a cab instead of wandering around after dark, and leaving your valuables at home.

Mexico City

Despite a longstanding reputation as a dangerous city to visit, Mexico City only has an advisory to exercise increased caution, and for good reason; the downtown core in particular is considered quite safe, and the city has numerous attractions for visitors—including street art, colorful markets, and more than 150 museums.

Where to Stay: The small, beautifully decorated Nima Local House Hotel is one of the best luxury hotel options in the city. For a more affordable option, consider the Chillout Flat Bed & Breakfast , which earns plaudits for friendly service and homemade granola.

Nima Local House

Chillout Flat B&B

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As Playa del Carmen has been the site of some troubling violence in the past, the coastal town of Tulum to the south may be a safer alternative. It is also less touristy than other resort towns on the Yucatan Peninsula, offering well-preserved ruins of the former Mayan city walls and other historic structures right in town. The State Department has explicitly stated there are no restrictions on travel to Tulum or to Chichen Itza, the magnificent archaeological site just an hour up the road.

Where to Stay: Guests appreciate the clean, comfortable rooms and fast Wi-Fi at the centrally located Posada Luna del Sur .

A beach town located in Oaxaca to the southwest of Puerto Escondido, Huatulco offers tons of water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving, some nearby surf spots, and tours of coffee farms to boot. Huatulco is considered one of the safest places in Mexico.

Where to Stay: For an indulgent resort experience you can’t do much better than Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa , where amenities include multiple swimming pools and tennis courts, yoga classes, watersports, and nine restaurants.

Merida and Valladolid

Gerardo Tanaka Pacheco, Senior Account Executive for MSL Group, the public relations firm for VisitMexico.com , recommends these two towns as great alternatives to other nearby tourist hot spots. “A lot of people go to Playa del Carmen and Tulum, but on the Yucatan Peninsula there are these two beautiful colonial cities that are so welcoming, colorful, and full of traditions that travelers won’t regret visiting them,” he says.

Merida is a walking-friendly town that is connected to Chichen Itza by a toll road, which is considered the safest way to travel in Mexico if you are driving. The Mayan influence remains strong here, and the area has its own style of cuisine that diverges considerably from what you will find in other parts of Mexico.

Midway between Merida and Cancun is Valladolid, a colorful and friendly city that’s within easy driving distance of several beautiful cenotes.

Where to Stay: In Merida, consider snagging a poolside room at the Luz En Yucatan . In Valladolid, you can’t go wrong at the centrally located Hotel Posada San Juan .

Luz En Yucatan

Hotel Posada San Juan

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Pacheco says that Bacalar, also on the Yucatan Peninsula, is “an amazing place, kind of unknown and definitely uncrowded. This is one of my favorite secrets spots in Mexico; the lagoon there is unbelievable.”

Called the Lake of Seven Colors, the lagoon stretches for 42 kilometers and is fed by underground rivers. Like Todos Santos mentioned below, Bacalar holds the official designation as a “Pueblo Magico,” or Magical Town, due in large part to the lagoon. In addition to being one of the safest places in Mexico, Bacalar is also very affordable.

Where to Stay: At the Bacalar Lagoon Resort , you can get a view of the lake right from your cabana.

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the western coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Campeche is a walled Spanish colonial city that has been superbly restored. The walled center is somewhat of a museum piece, but the life of the town surrounding it might even be the main attraction. There are also significant Mayan ruins in the state of Campeche, of which the city is the capital; these aren’t as well known as the famous ruins to the east, and as such they’re less crowded.

Where to Stay: Try for a balcony room or suite at the modestly priced Hotel Socaire .

Queretaro’s streets are a wondrous mix of old and very old, as grid-like Spanish streets connect to the pre-Hispanic winding lanes from the time of the Otomi. From rock climbing and art galleries to architecture sightseeing, there is a ton to do in this central Mexican city.

Where to Stay: La Casa del Atrio , across from the Museo de Arte , is both popular and affordable.

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Todos Santos

This surf town in Baja California Sur features world-class waves and lots of natural beauty—and it’s just far enough north of touristy Cabo San Lucas to offer respite from the crowds. Todos Santos is slowly becoming more popular, but its stone streets and uncrowded beaches have earned it the official Pueblo Magico designation.

Where to Stay: La Poza Boutique Hotel & Spa has a fantastic oceanfront location at very reasonable rates.

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10 Safest Cities in Mexico

Featuring charming towns, ancient ruins, and picturesque beaches, Mexico is the 7th most popular country to visit in the world.

However, there is a dark underbelly that many tourists consider before visiting – violent crime because of drug cartels and organized crime.

Street or public transit robbery or theft has a rate of 6,900 victims per 100,000 inhabitants.

Also, Mexico has seen an 84.1% homicide rate increase since 2015, five Mexican cities have the highest homicide rates on Earth and the country has the ninth-highest homicide rate.

Tijuana topped this list with 134 deaths via homicide per 100,000 inhabitants.

Despite these high crime rates, it does not mean the entire country experiences violent crimes against property and humans.

There are plenty of safe cities in Mexico to visit.

To learn more, keep reading!

8. Playa Del Carmen

7. puerto vallarta, 5. san miguel de allende, 4. sayulita, 2. mexico city, 1. huatulco, be careful with your cash, be cautious of the cuisine, know emergency numbers, try to blend in, utilize mass transit during the day and taxis at night, mexico safety overview, when is the best time to visit mexico, what type of food is typical in mexico, should i bring cash, traveler’s checks, or credit cards.

The 10 safest cities in Mexico include:

Considered the safest city in the country and Latin America, the greatest safety concern you will experience in Merida is the traffic.

This Yucatan capital is located close to incredible archeological sites, offers amazing food, and is well-known for its colonial architecture.

While Merida has the occasional pickpocket, violent crime in this city is virtually non-existent.

In any case, it is always best to take normal precautions, as you would in any city.

With swaying and relaxing palm trees perched across white sand beaches, Tulum is one of the safest Mexican cities and one of the most popular over the past decade.

Also, one of the best party cities in Mexico, Tulum has something for everyone.

From beach houses to glamping, extensive restaurant options, and proximity to Mayan ruins, Tulum is centrally located for tourists from around the world.

While this is a safe place to visit, always be aware of your surroundings and watch your belongings when taking mass transit.

As one of the most famous coastal cities in Mexico, Playa del Carmen is close to beautiful cenotes and Mayan ruins.

With crystal clear, sparkling blue waters and long white beaches, Playa del Carmen has become a popular tourist destination in recent years.

As a result, it is a safe destination in Mexico, suitable for families and solo travelers.

While there have been some recent drug-related violence incidences in nearby cities, the State of Quintana Roo has a very small amount of violent crime directed at visitors.

Regardless, it is always best to take the necessary safety precautions such as staying away from recreational drugs and not wandering around alone at night.

Another reputable destination, known for its beautiful marine life, bustling nightlife, and pristine beaches, Puerto Vallarta is another one of the safest destinations in Mexico.

In addition to being family-friendly, Puerto Vallarta is an excellent destination for same-sex couples and has been uninvolved in cartel conflicts.

As a result, crime rates are significantly lower than rates in major U.S. cities.

Theft, pickpocketing, and bag snatching occasionally occur, so it is best to remain vigilant at all hours of the day and night.

Another beautiful Mexican beach city, La Paz is located on the Baja California peninsula and is considered one of the safest destinations in the country.

Although the city is flat, it is surrounded by mountains, adding more adventure options for visitors.

The city has a low crime rate with the beaches and town limits regularly patrolled by police.

Visitors only need to worry about petty theft, like pickpockets and purse-snatchers, like in any city.

As a popular destination for ex-pats with 8,000 American, British, and Canadian residents living in the city, San Miguel de Allende boasts amazing heritage sites, excellent restaurants, and stunning Spanish colonial churches.

San Miguel de Allende is not a well-known tourist destination but has many attractions to offer.

Additionally, crime rates in the city are low, but you must keep an eye out for your belongings while riding public transport and be cautious while wandering around at night.

Located only 30 miles from Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is the ideal destination for surfers and nature lovers.

In addition to being friendly and safe, Sayulita’s economy is primarily based on tourism.

Locals understand English well and are very welcoming to visitors from the United States , Canada , and across the globe.

While the crime rate is incredibly low, there is a considerable number of stray dogs, so it is important to stay away from them.

If you approach, and they feel threatened, they may bite you.

With so many amazing attractions in and near Cancun , the government keeps the hotel zone incredibly safe for visitors.

Generally, it is safe to get around the city via taxi or mass transit but be on the lookout for pickpockets.

As one of the top destinations in the country, Cancun has created a well-developed travel infrastructure with countless resorts, attractions, shops, nightclubs, bars, and restaurants, all of which are patrolled by police.

Despite having a reputation for kidnapping and violent crime, Mexico City is safe, especially in the city center.

At the beginning of the 2010s, Mexico City’s crime rate drastically decreased while the police presence increased.

That trend continues into the early 2020s and the result has been visitors reporting feeling safe.

Mexico City is a cultural gem with over 150 museums, many street art pieces, and colorful markets that you do not want to miss.

Despite the safety improvement, take all regular precautions while visiting.

Located in Oaxaca , Huatulco offers countless surf spots and water activities, making it an excellent destination for families.

Huatulco is often considered safer than multiple U.S. cities, but visitors should be aware that some organized crime exists in the area.

Luckily, tourists are not bothered by these criminal activities.

Huatulco offers a glimpse of Oaxaca’s rich heritage, with half the population speaking Indigenous languages.

While the area is not as popular as other beach towns, this is still an appealing and safe destination.

5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Mexico

While there are many safe destinations in Mexico, crime and violence still exist, like in any country.

However, you can keep yourself safe by following these safety tips:

Be smart and do not flash your cash or valuables in public, or you will be asking for trouble.

Also, never carry around all your credit cards or cash at the same time.

Just bring what you need for the day.

Mexico has amazing street food but you should choose wisely.

To avoid becoming ill, go to the stalls with lines or people flocking to eat there.

This is critical for traveling to any foreign country, including Mexico.

Keep a list of emergency numbers on your phone and a separate piece of paper.

Try to wear what the locals wear.

That means if everyone is wearing jumpers and jeans, then do not wear vest tops, sandals, and shorts.

This does not mean you should be uncomfortable, but do not dress for a day at the beach when you are simply walking around the city.

Blending in will help make you less of a target to criminals.

Depending on where you are, mass transit could be dangerous at night.

Therefore, use it during the daylight hours and rely on taxis and other private transport at night.

• https://www.statista.com/statistics/983394/mexico-crime-rate/
• https://www.visionofhumanity.org/mexico-peace-index-2021-by-the-numbers/
•   https://www.visitmexico.com/en/faq

READ THE FULL REPORT: Mexico Safety Review

• OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
• MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
• TERRORISM RISK: LOW
• SCAMS RISK: HIGH
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Frequently Asked Questions

Although there are regional differences in weather, Mexico is best to visit from mid-September to mid-May.

The Gulf of Mexico is susceptible to hurricanes throughout the summer and fall, and into November, so plan accordingly.

April and May are the hottest months with June through September having the most rain.

As mentioned, street food is an excellent option and can range from seafood and vegetables to liquors, wines, cheese, fruits, and meats.

In any case, be cautious of what you eat and never drink the water from the tap as you will fall ill.

Bottled water is inexpensive in Mexico, so stock up at the beginning of your trip.

In case there is a safety issue, it is advisable to bring all three.

In smaller towns, cash exchanges and ATMs may be limited, or non-existent and credit cards may not be used, so it is important to have all three.

In major cities and shopping areas, all major credit cards are accepted.

Keep local currency and traveler’s checks on hand in case you need them in more remote areas.

Additional Resources

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Merida’s colonial architecture and delicious food make it a must-visit, despite the occasional pickpocket; Tulum is perfect for beach lovers and party-goers alike; Playa Del Carmen offers stunning beaches with minimal crime rates; Puerto Vallarta boasts beautiful marine life without any cartel conflicts to worry about.

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Is Mexico City Safe To Visit in 2024? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: April 4, 2024

It’s impossible not to love the sheer scale of Mexico City. The Mexican capital is one of the world’s largest cities. It’s a place of dense population, street food, architecture, and fascinating community dynamics. If you want to experience Mexico as a tourist, head to Cancun. If you want to experience Mexico as a society, head to Mexico City. The history is astounding, with day trips to the Teotihuacan Pyramids and countless museums like Chapultepec Castle in the city center. There’s no doubt about it: Mexico City is an incredible destination for passionate travelers.

Table of Contents

Is Mexico City Safe to Visit?

However, many people ask, “Is Mexico City safe?” How do you go about staying safe in Mexico City? As the largest city in Mexico, it’s no wonder people worry about safety levels. Mexico City is a big city, and like all big cities you must take standard precautions to avoid petty theft and crime. But it also has some specific crime rates to note, so it pays to research first before visiting Mexico City.

Staying safe in Mexico City doesn’t have to be something to worry about. In this guide, we’ll give you the rundown on the question of ‘Is Mexico City safe?’ but also guidance on how to make it a safer experience. Statistics speak for themselves, but there’s a lot within your control. Get ready to take a more proactive approach to staying safe while visiting Mexico City.

Short Summary

Mexico City is generally safe, but it’s important to say that crimes do occur throughout the city. Let’s give you an overview of safety in the city to start with.

Usually, non-violent and petty crime is in touristy areas, like the Centro Historic, which ranges from pickpocketing on public transportation to more serious mugging incidents. The city center has some of the safest neighborhoods. If you stick to these ‘safe’ areas, you can stay safe in Mexico City. For instance, avoid carrying too much cash, walking alone at night, and not leaving drinks unattended.

The tourist areas have a good police presence, which deters violent crimes. Mexico City is reasonably safe if you stick to the daylight hours and specific neighborhoods. You can have a wonderful time so long as you practice common sense.

On the other hand, the non-tourist areas and neighborhoods associated with cartels can be dangerous. Examples include Tepito, which is home to La Union Tepito, a cartel organization involved in human trafficking and extortion. Even police presence in Tepito is unhelpful, with some officers taking bribes to turn blind eyes to crime.

Mexico Travel Advisories

Most visitors have a safe trip to Mexico City. It is a good idea to stay on top of general travel advisories, which you can find on government websites like Gov.UK , Travel.State.Gov for the US, and Travel.gc.ca for Canada. When embarking on solo travel, you should be particularly mindful of these when loved ones back home could lose contact with you or not be aware of your movements.

In this section, we’ll look at some of the 2024 travel advisories for Mexico as a whole. Remember to look at your government’s guidance for advice that is as current as possible. These advisories can change daily, for instance, telling you to exercise increased caution over political rallies or gang-related tensions.

Here are a few to keep in mind as of 2024:

• Avoid the states of Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, and Tamaulipas due to the increased risk of crime and kidnapping.
• Be mindful of the lingering impact of 2023’s Hurricane Otis around Acapulco.
• Avoid Tijuana and sections of the Baja California Sur peninsula due to rising tensions.
• Avoid Chihuahua due to current high crime rates.
• Avoid traveling at night.
• Be alert even in tourist areas on the Mayan Riviera, like Tulum, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen.

And now that the general Mexico advice is out there, what about Mexico City specifically?

Mexico City’s Current Safety Situation

As we said, safety can change day by day. It depends on things like political movements and social events. Elections can spark chaos, even in a ‘safe destination’. And riots or incidents can spark cartel violence. So, what is Mexico City’s current safety situation  right now?  Regarding staying safe in Mexico City, knowledge of current affairs is key.

Currently, Mexico City has no elections, controversial political scandals, or warring cartels in tourist areas. There are no inflammatory events, so this is a safe time to visit Mexico City.

However, those visiting the city in June 2024 should remember that it is the period of the Mexico General Elections. This is a time when tensions can rise with protests and unrest. If you are visiting during this period, it’s wise to monitor the news and know that you may need to adjust your trip and avoid protesting crowds while out.

You should also monitor the news for any outbreaks of rival cartel violence and take standard precautions at all times. Several cities in Mexico require extra care for tourists. Still, Mexico City is the country’s largest city, so it naturally has more risks and petty crime.

Best Practices For Staying Safe in Mexico City

When you visit Mexico City, many ways to stay safe are dictated by you and your behavior. Of course, random incidents that are totally out of your control can occur. But as a general rule, you can avoid incidents by proactively staying safe in Mexico City – so why wouldn’t you?

In this section, we’ll introduce you to the top seven practices to stay safe in Mexico City. We’ll cover everything from tap water to money belts and everything in between. These are the vital tips you will want before visiting Mexico City.

1. Avoid Drinking Tap Water

First things first, make sure you remember to avoid drinking tap water. Tap water in Mexico City is not suitable for drinking. This goes for brushing your teeth and cooking; just buy bottled water and look for recycling points to ensure plastic is reused. The last thing you want is an upset stomach or a serious waterborne disease.

As a general rule, when traveling through Mexico, tap water is not considered safe for consumption. It often does not get sent through filtration or purification systems, meaning there are bacteria in the tap water system. Tourists should not drink tap water, and even locals abide by this practice – instead, drinking bottled water.

The flip side to this is that you want to drink plenty. Staying hydrated is really important, especially in Mexican summers. Don’t drink tap water, but make sure that you drink plenty of bottled and recycle plastics accordingly.

2. Wear a Money Belt

Money belts are fantastic. A popular way to reduce the risk of petty crime and pickpocketing is to wear a money belt. These lie flat around your stomach under your clothes. Then, if you are a victim of pickpocketing or mugging, you can keep your valuables undetected.

Things like money belts are just common sense. You can also leave valuables in your hotel safe and avoid bringing lots of money out and about while sightseeing. Some people carry decoy purses or cards, too – which is a great idea should you be targeted.

3. Learn Basic Spanish

Learning a little Spanish is a great way to stay safe in Mexico City. Mexico City is full of action and is a fast-paced tourist destination. Learning a bit of Spanish, be that ‘por favor’ or some simple directions or phrases, can make a huge difference.

When communicating, you can avoid high-risk areas and take advice from helpful people you meet around the city. It also prevents you from hanging out and looking vulnerable on your phone or simply struggling to communicate. The more capable you are and the less distracted or confused you look, the less likely you are to draw attention to yourself. And this means a lesser chance of being targeted by criminals.

4. Learn the Safe Neighborhoods

Learning safe neighborhoods should be a vital practice when visiting any city. In Mexico City, though, this is especially important, as some neighborhoods are rife with drug cartels. Even locals don’t venture into specific areas, so when you add higher risks, such as solo travel and carrying valuables and obvious luggage, you can see why knowing your neighborhoods makes a safety difference.

A few examples of neighborhoods to avoid in Mexico City are Tepito, Ciudad Neza, and La Merced Market. The neighborhoods that are really safe and popular among travelers are Roma, Centro Historico, and Condesa.

5. Consider Group Tours

Another top tip is related to solo traveler experiences. If you are a solo traveler and need help tackling Mexico City, join a group tour. There are so many capacities in which you can do so – whether you book a single-day tour, a fully guided multi-day trip, or a walking tour around the city center. You could spend your time in a group the whole time or your first day in a group to get a feel of the city. Think of this option as a safety blanket.

One thing to consider as a solo female traveler is that it’s wisest to head out at night in a group. So, if you are looking to do some after-hours exploring, you can join a guided pub crawl.

6. Have Great Travel Insurance

This is a big one. Travel insurance can make or break your trip if the worst occurs. It covers everything from hospital treatment to gear cover and flight cancellations. Brilliant, right? Travel insurance is one of the best things to remember when preparing a visit to Mexico City.

Insurance costs as little as $5 or so for a few days and can cover you for millions in damages. Shop around and see what policy best suits you.

7. Pick a Different ‘Party Destination’

Finally, while Mexico City has excellent nightlife, you can pick a different party destination. You could visit somewhere like Cancun. Or you could head elsewhere outside of Mexico – heading to US cities. If you want somewhere to enjoy late-night partying in a safer environment, reconsider.

Tailoring your activities to a destination is a great practice when traveling in general. If you want to take fewer safety precautions in terms of nightlife, visit Mexico City for its daytime activities and pick somewhere else for its nightlife.

Transportation Safety

As one of Mexico’s major cities, you’d need public transport at some point. There is a metro system and buses. But is public transportation safe in Mexico City? We’d say generally it is safe, as long as you are aware of pickpockets. Exploring Mexico City by public transport is great for your budget, but you should be mindful of safety and the time you use it.

Public transport in Mexico City is rife with petty theft. Tourists are mainly targeted because they are less familiar with theft tactics and often carry so much luggage that they are vulnerable to pickpocketers or bag snatchers. Reduce the amount of luggage you take on public transportation and always ensure valuables are secure – ideally hidden under your clothes in a money belt.

Another thing to remember when using public transport in Mexico City is that it’s more dangerous at night. You can use most transport safely in daylight hours with some common sense. However, we’d recommend skipping Mexico City’s public transport system at night. Opt for a licensed taxi in a group instead. The safest ones are called Sitio Taxis.

If you use public transport in Mexico City, try to know beforehand how they run and where you are going. This way, you won’t flounder at stations looking like a sitting duck for petty crime. Here’s an overview of the city’s public transportation system:

The metro runs until midnight seven days a week for journeys as cheap as 5 pesos a ride. There are twelve lines, and the trains have around nine cars, which remain busy in peak hours. You buy tickets and enter through turnstiles. Google Maps should tell you which route to take pretty effectively, and downloading offline maps or screenshotting your directions will help you avoid lingering in stations. Are you a solo female traveler? Keep an eye out for children and female-only carriages in peak hours – which tend to be the first three cars.

The buses are a bit more hassle than the metro in Mexico City. However, some brilliant female-only buses help prevent harassment in crowded buses. These are ideal for solo female travelers in Mexico City. The bus system is also really budget-friendly.

If you would rather opt for taxis, consider a few different categories of taxis. To stay safe when using taxis rather than public transport is equally important. So keep these three taxi types in mind:

Turismo taxis

Turismo taxis are unmarked luxury vehicles. These are typically booked as transfers online through platforms like Viator and Get Your Guide or affiliated with hotels. Turismo taxis might be unmarked, but they are still safe and associated with formal companies. Because most are booked in advance, you pay premium prices.

Sitio taxis

Sitio taxis are marked taxis and are sent out by radio dispatchers. These are your traditional taxis. They are a little more expensive than your metered and libre taxis. However, the sitio taxis are safer because they are more regulated. Sitio taxis focus on guided experiences and transfers, with a more personable service than a quick A to B drop-off.

Red cabs and libre cabs

These taxis rely on a meter and are the most basic taxis you can get. It can work out budget-friendly, but be aware that Libre taxis are less regulated than the sitio and Turismo options.

Food and Drink Safety in Mexico City

You are visiting Mexico City – of course, you will try some of the delicious things to eat and drink. In fact, a  food tour  is one of the best things to do in the city. The downtown area especially is full of street vendors selling delicious street food. And you can sample Mexican food like tacos as well as tasty cocktails.

Food and drink in Mexico City are super tasty. So, what should you consider from a safety perspective?

The first major consideration should be tap water. The tap water in Mexico City is not safe. It is often not filtered properly, meaning bacteria is left in the water, which you then drink. To avoid this, be mindful of eating fruit and vegetables washed in non-bottled water. You should also avoid ice in drinks.

In 2014, authorities made it a requirement that restaurants in Mexico City serve filtered water to guests for free, which has helped. Many more formal restaurants use filtered water when cooking and preparing dishes. But it’s still essential to watch these things to avoid getting sick. It’s your choice how hesitant or risk-taking you’d like to be regarding the age-old tap water debate.

Finally, eat at places with good reviews. If there’s a restaurant repeatedly making everyone sick, you can bet Google will hear about it. People are quick to leave scathing reviews, so make sure that you check out Google reviews before dining somewhere. You can also do a quick in-person scan – in general, the busy restaurants are the ones where people aren’t getting sick.

Health and Medical Safety in Mexico City

We’ll answer this section in two parts. First, we’ll look at the general health risks in Mexico that you should be aware of when staying in Mexico City. Then, we’ll look at the specific health and medical risks of staying in Mexico City itself.

Generally speaking, you should be aware of two viruses in Mexico: Zika and Chikungunya. The Zika virus is spread by mosquitos and causes a rash, headache, and joint pain, often accompanied by red eyes. It is unpleasant but not fatal, although it can carry risks to pregnant women. The Chikungunya virus is also spread by mosquitos, causing similar symptoms. It can also cause chronic chikungunya arthritis, though, which is long-lasting. Mexico also has dengue fever, which is spread by mosquitos and causes flu-like symptoms. Dengue fever can worsen, causing shock and internal bleeding, so early detection – and, ideally, prevention – is vital.

As you can see, the main cause of these three medical concerns in Mexico is the presence of infected mosquitos. The risk of mosquitoes in Mexico City is generally considered low, as there’s no great body of water and areas of undergrowth. But you can still bring mosquito repellent to be on the safe side.

So, what are Mexico City’s specific concerns? Well, the biggest health and medical risks in Mexico City are related to its pollution. The city has high levels of air pollution, which can aggravate respiratory and heart conditions. You can take preventative steps like wearing masks. Or, if you struggle with existing conditions like asthma, ensure that you bring all personal medication and treatments.

Be mindful of unfiltered and impurified water in Mexico City, too, which can cause bugs like Cyclospora or salmonella. The best way to avoid the dangers of unfiltered water in Mexico City is to  not drink unfiltered water.  Always buy bottled water and use it to drink, brush your teeth, cook, and make hot drinks. The last thing you want is chronic diarrhea when trying to enjoy sightseeing in beautiful Mexico City.

Is Mexico City safe health-wise? It is safer than most coastal areas and places thick with vegetation, where mosquitos thrive. You are less at risk of Zika, Chikungunya, or dengue fever exposure. However, you can still bring mosquito repellent, just in case. You should primarily be mindful of waterborne diseases and air pollution, especially if you are predisposed to respiratory illnesses like asthma.

Is Mexico City Safe for Solo Travelers?

Mexico City isn’t the safest city for solo travelers. However, if you are experienced, savvy, and willing to prioritize safety, you can visit the city safely as a solo traveler.

The main issue for solo travelers in Mexico City is that they are more at risk of petty and violent crime. Solo travel naturally leaves you more vulnerable. For instance, if you look at Google Maps, nobody focuses on protecting your bags. Or if you are walking through an unsafe neighborhood looking at Google Maps to find a way out, there’s nobody to pay attention to what’s happening around you. Safety in numbers is a legitimate safety net you often cast aside on a solo trip.

That’s not to say it can’t be done, though. Mexico City can be great fun for solo travelers, like any major city. We’ll first look at solo travel and then concentrate on Mexico City for solo female travel.

Generally, solo travel is safe if you stick to safe neighborhoods and minimize going out after dark alone. Similarly, if you use common sense and pick marked taxis, you should be fine getting around the city. Little things make a big difference, though, like choosing well-located accommodation and learning directions before you leave your hotel so you aren’t glued to Google Maps.

If you stay at a hostel, you can soon meet new people and join forces with other travelers to head out as a group anyway. We advise staying in a hostel or organizing group tours and experiences. If you arrive in Mexico City on a solo trip and feel uncomfortable, you have a safety blanket and the option to enjoy the city in a group.

But what about solo female travelers? Is Mexico City safe for solo female tourists? We’d say yes only when you are taking precautions. While the city is generally safe for solo female tourists, many activities and ways of getting around  are  safer in groups. For instance, you can ride in the female-only carriages on the Metro, but it’s safer to travel with a group. Similarly, it’s definitely not safe for a solo female tourist to walk around much of Mexico City after dark. If you want to make it safe, you will spend your time sightseeing during the day around the city center, taking guided day trips to explore other attractions.

The question is not so much ‘Is Mexico City safe for solo female tourists? ‘ but how you are planning on visiting the city. Are you going to be happy making compromises to make your experience safer? We wouldn’t call Mexico City safe for solo female tourists if you want to go out alone and have a carefree experience. If this is the case, consider booking a group tour instead so you can relax a little and enjoy your getaway more.

Is Mexico City Safe: FAQs

Now that you know all about staying safe in Mexico City, it’s time for some FAQs. As a major city, it’s helpful to compare Mexico City to other cities that may be more familiar. Often, it’s the fear of the unknown that can provoke more anxiety.

In this section, we’ll provide a better insight into whether Mexico City is safe by using comparisons and more general perspectives.

Is Mexico City safer than New York City?

Mexico City is marginally more dangerous than New York City, but not by much. Mexico City and New York City are similar in that crime is concentrated in specific areas. Both experience gang-related violence. If you know which neighborhoods to avoid, both New York City and Mexico City are relatively safe.

Is Mexico City safer than Los Angeles?

Mexico City is more dangerous than Los Angeles. As a whole, it is muggings that make Mexico City more dangerous, with more street robbery incidents than in Los Angeles. However, Mexico City is still safe in the safer neighborhoods and with common sense exercised.

Is Mexico City cheap or expensive?

Mexico City is one of the more expensive cities in the region. But with that said, its affordability is still miles above that of EU or US cities. Living costs – including rent – are around 60% lower for those living in Mexico City rather than New York City. And for those just visiting, you are looking at a $20 average for a meal in New York City versus a $9 average for a similar standard restaurant in Mexico City.

Is Mexico City nice to live in?

Yes, Mexico City is a nice place to live for expats. The city is full of things to do, providing great affordability and a fantastic job market. The tasty Mexican food is another huge plus. And it’s no wonder that a large percentage of people are relocating to the Mexican capital.

Should you Travel To Mexico City Now?

As you can see, staying safe in Mexico City is mostly easy. For such a big city, the risks are minimal. Just be mindful of public transportation, have good travel insurance, use common sense, and take extra care if you’re a solo traveler. So, is Mexico City safe? For the most part, we’d say yes. Mexico City is safe when you proactively take the necessary safety steps.

It is easily one of the  best places to visit in Mexico.  But that’s not stopping you from venturing to other small towns and other cities after you visit Mexico City. Check out  the cenotes  on the Yucatan Peninsula and  Mexico’s incredible beaches.  We advise using Mexico City as a launchpad to experience even more of the region.

The best way to stay safe in Mexico City is to do your neighborhood research. Take out great travel insurance and take standard precautions to stay safe. Take particular care if you are a solo traveler, especially a solo female traveler.

You can enjoy amazing food and fantastic sightseeing in safe neighborhoods with plenty of tourists. It’s equally important to remember that Mexico City is a wonderful experience. It has a historic center, ancient city ruins, and delicious cuisine.

Plan your travels to Mexico with these resources

• Is Cancun Safe to Visit? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips
• Is Tulum Safe To Visit? A Comprehensive Guide to Safety and Security
• 21 Amazing Things to do in Cancun
• 30 Best Puerto Rico Beaches To Visit
• 34 Best Things to Do in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
• 27 Incredible Things To Do In Puerto Rico in 2024

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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1 thought on “Is Mexico City Safe To Visit in 2024? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips”

Thank you for providing such valuable insights into the safety aspects of visiting Mexico City in 2024. Your thorough analysis of travel warnings and safety tips offers a comprehensive guide for anyone considering a trip to this vibrant destination. Your dedication to ensuring travelers’ safety and well-being is commendable, and your expertise in navigating potential risks is invaluable. Keep up the excellent work in providing essential information for travelers worldwide!

Safest Ways To Get From the Mexico City Airport to the City Center in 2024

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Wondering what the best Mexico City airport transportation options are? This guide outlines all the safest ways to get from the Mexico City airport to your hotel or Airbnb. 

One of the most important logistical details of any trip is how you’ll get from the airport to your hotel when you arrive at your destination. After a long, exhausting day of travel, the last thing you want to do is piecemeal your transportation plan together upon arrival. Secure transportation is paramount.

Planning ahead will help you avoid being overcharged, protect you from potential scammers, and save you a lot of time and energy. Mexico City is one of the biggest cities in the world and the transportation options may appear complex at first glance.

This Mexico City Airport transportation guide will give you an overview of all the different options to help you choose the one that best fits your budget, comfort level, and travel style.

Where is the Mexico City International Airport?

Mexico City’s Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) is located about 5 miles from the city’s centro histórico (the city center) and about 8 miles from the popular neighborhoods of Roma and Condesa. 

Though the airport is quite close to these popular areas, the travel time may be anywhere from 25 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.  

The Mexico City airport is the biggest and busiest airport in the country and a central travel hub for not only Mexico but all of Latin America.

It processes over 100,000 travelers daily and is the hub for airlines such as Aeroméxico, Aeromar, Volaris, and VivaAerobús.

Traveling soon? Don’t forget to buy travel insurance for Mexico. Insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing you can get the help you need if anything goes wrong. SafetyWing is the provider that I recommend.

Taxi Services

Average cost: $250 MXN to $500 MXN, depending on your destination.

If you ask me, official airport taxis are the best option for airport transportation in CDMX because they are abundant and easy to use. 

When you exit the baggage claim area, you will see booths selling tickets for “Taxi Seguro” (or something similar). This is where you purchase a taxi ticket.

Fares are fixed and based on which zone of the city you are traveling to. Purchasing a ticket from one of these booths will ensure you get a fair price and are placed in a legitimate taxi. 

Several authorized taxi companies operate within the airport, each of which is legitimate. Some offer more luxurious vehicles, and some even offer female drivers and provide services exclusively to women. 

In my experience, you can’t go wrong with any of them, but the prices may vary depending on your choice.

If you’re a budget traveler, know that taxi fares will be slightly elevated when you depart from the airport. Budget accordingly, and know that the rest of your transportation expenses will be lower. It’s worth paying a little more to use secure transportation in Mexico City after a long day of travel.    

Expect it to cost about 250 to 350 pesos to get from the airport to the Condesa/Reforma area (where many Mexico City hotels are located).

Once you purchase your taxi ticket, an attendant will direct you to a taxi queue where you’ll wait in line with other travelers until a car becomes available. Be warned. These taxi lines can be long if you’re traveling during rush hour. Expect to wait at least 30 minutes. 

If you have a lot of luggage, keep a few coins handy to tip the attendants who help you load your bags into the taxi. You don’t need to tip the taxi driver when you reach your destination unless they help you with your luggage. 

Related Reading:

• Mexico City Itinerary: How to Spend 4 Magical Days in CDMX
• 10 Awesome Things to See in Mexico City’s Centro Historico
• Where to Stay in Mexico City
• What the Wear in Mexico City

Click here to browse all of my content related to Mexico City!

I’ve heard a lot of conflicting accounts of travelers trying to use Uber from the Mexico City airport. Many have been successful, but there are potential obstacles, too. 

Uber is not technically permitted to operate from the Mexico City airport, so it may be tricky to get one.

I’ve taken Uber from the airport myself, and the drivers always instructed me to go to the “Departures” area to be picked up. However, the last time I did this was in 2019, and it sounds like things may have changed. 

I polled my Female Travelers in Mexico Facebook Group to see what experiences others have had using Uber, and several people reported having successfully taken Uber from the airport as recently as this week.

On the other hand, I’ve also heard of travelers having drivers cancel on them or asking them to meet somewhere a couple of blocks from the airport (not ideal if you have a lot of bulky luggage or fly in late at night).

These inconsistencies in rules and experiences are pretty common in Mexico– it just loves to keep us guessing! In my experience with other things of this nature, there may be long bouts of time where you can get Ubers from the airport without issue, and then suddenly, there will be a crackdown that makes it more challenging. 

A similar thing happened with the 180-day immigration visa in 2021– for months, travelers reported being granted as little as a few days… but then a couple of months later, everything went back to normal, and now everyone seems to get 180 days by default.

I digress. The point is these things are constantly in flux.

If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates a concrete plan, I’d avoid Uber and take a taxi. A taxi may cost a couple of dollars more, but as long as you buy your ticket from one of the booths inside the terminal, Mexico City airport taxis are perfectly safe . 

But, I know many travelers really prefer Uber. If this is you, go ahead and give it a try. Just know that there could be hangups, and taxis are always there as a backup!

When it comes time to return to the airport at the end of your trip, you shouldn’t have any problem getting Uber to drop you off. 

Mexico City Airport Transfers

Average Cost: $450 MXN to $1000 MXN to downtown Mexico City , depending on vehicle size.

Airport shuttles typically cost a little more than a taxi or Uber, but they are really convenient, secure ground transportation, and come with great perks.

First, you can book them in advance, so you know a transfer will be waiting for you when you arrive– this saves you the hassle of having to even think about any other options. Plus, you won’t have to stop to get cash because you can pay for your shuttle online in advance.

A private transfer service usually offers nicer vehicles too, which means you’ll have more legroom and will inevitably be more comfortable– a nice perk after a long flight.

And finally, a professional driver will usually wait for you even if your arrival time changes. 

Knowing a driver will be there to pick you up when you land offers enormous peace of mind in what can be a hectic experience (navigating immigration in a foreign language).

Airport Taxi Transfers is a great company that you can use to book airport shuttle services in cities around the world. Click here to reserve your Mexico City airport transfer!

Metro/Subway 

Average cost: $5 MXN

Mexico City has an extensive metro network with lines that cover most of the city. This is definitely the cheapest way to get from the airport into downtown Mexico City and most of the other neighborhoods you might be headed to.  

The Terminal Aérea metro station is located just outside of Terminal 1 at the Mexico City airport, making it a convenient way to get to and from the airport.  

You can use Google Maps or Rome2Rio to plan your route to your accommodation, but I’ve outlined how to get to a couple of the most common destinations:

• Condesa : To get to Condesa from the airport, take Line 5 from Terminal Aérea toward Pantitlán. At the Pantitlán station, transfer to Line 9 in the direction of Tacubaya and get off at the Chilpancingo station.
• Centro Histórico : To get to Mexico City’s Zócalo from the airport, take metro Line 5 from the Terminal Aérea station toward Pantitlán. At the Pantitlán station, transfer to Line 1 toward Observatorio. Get off at the Pino Suárez station and walk North along Calle Pino Suárez for about 10 minutes to reach the Zócalo, also known as Plaza de La Constitución.

The metro is super economical (it costs 5 pesos) and it’s very efficient given that it enables you to avoid the city’s traffic congestion. However, it can be uncomfortably crowded at peak times. 

This website has additional information on using the Mexico City metro and includes several maps of the metro system .  

I’ve used the metro several times and had some unpleasant experiences (including my friend having his phone and wallet stolen), so I’ve decided I’d rather just take taxis or Uber. They may cost more, but to me, it’s worth it because they’re more comfortable and less stressful.

That said, the metro can still be a good option, and it’s definitely the best way to go for budget travelers (if you feel comfortable navigating metro systems).

Always be mindful of your surroundings and note how far the metro stations are from your final destination.

If you’re a novice solo female traveler arriving at the Mexico City airport late at night, I would advise against using the metro.

While there are metro cars exclusively for women , stepping off the metro into the shrouds of darkness isn’t advisable. I’d definitely splurge for a taxi in this scenario. 

Local Bus Lines & Metrobus

Average cost: $5 – $10 MXN

There are all kinds of different local bus systems in Mexico, and you can use them to get to the airport. I have never done this because it’s the most confusing of the options on this list. But I wanted to list it just in case you want to try it. 

Metrobus is one of the most popular types of buses in Mexico City and it stops at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of the airport. 

To get from the airport to the city center, take Metrobus Line 4 from Terminal 1 toward San Lázaro. At San Lázaro, transfer to the Metro Line 1 toward Observatorio and get off at the Pino Suárez Station. From there, transfer to Metro Line 2 toward Cuatro Caminos and get off at the Zócalo station.

For more detail, use Rome2Rio or Google Maps to figure out how to get to and from the Mexico City airport using buses.

Long-haul Buses

Average cost: Anywhere from $300 MXN to $1500 MXN, depending on your destination and the level of service you opt for.

Depending on where you’re headed from Mexico City, you may be able to catch a bus there directly from the airport. There are regular departures for cities like Puebla, Queretaro, Cuernavaca, Córdoba, and more. 

There are two bus stations attached to the Mexico City airport. One is near Terminal 1, by the ramp that leads to the international area of the airport. The other is in Terminal 2 near Gate D, between entrance 4 and the domestic arrivals exit.

If there aren’t direct buses from the airport to your next destination, you’ll have to find your way to the appropriate Mexico City bus station for the next leg of your journey.

Beyond the airport, there are four bus terminals in Mexico City:

• Terminal de Autobuses Norte : This station has buses departing for areas north of Mexico City, including Queretaro, Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, and San Luis Potosí.
• Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros Oriente (TAPO): This station is very close to the Mexico City airport and has buses departing for destinations both east and south of Mexico City, including Oaxaca, Puebla, Xalapa, and more. The ADO bus line primarily operates out of this station. 
• Terminal de Autobuses del Sur (Taxqueña): Buses from this station head to places south of Mexico City, including Puebla, Taxco, and Cuernavaca.
• Terminal de Autobuses del Poniente: Buses from Poniente head west of Mexico City to destinations like Manzanillo and Guadalajara. 

You can use Busbud or BookAway to plan and reserve intercity buses from the Mexico City airport. 

Related Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Mexico’s Long-Haul Bus Network

Average cost: $1000 MXN/day (including insurance & fees)

I’m basically just including this option to tell you why I don’t recommend it. 

If you’re thinking about renting a car for Mexico City, don’t bother. The traffic is horrible, and parking is tough to come by and expensive. It’s very affordable to get around via Uber, Taxi, and metro, so there’s no reason to subject yourself to the hassle of renting a car here. 

Rental cars can be awesome in other parts of the country, but you simply don’t need one here. 

If you’re transiting through Mexico City to visit another area, I still don’t recommend a rental car. In most cases, taking a bus to the next city will be easier, safer, and more efficient than renting a car.

You can always rent a car when you reach that destination if you still feel you need one (which you might, depending on your plans). 

When it comes to renting cars, I recommend using Discover Cars to find the best rates on rental cars anywhere in Mexico. 

How do I get from the airport to the city of Mexico City?

The Mexico City airport is located just outside of the city center. Airport taxis are a safe and efficient way to research your destination within Mexico City. They are available all the time, and you don’t need to book ahead.

Is Uber available at the Mexico City airport?

Uber isn’t technically allowed to pick up at the Mexico City airport, but you can request pickup, and the app will direct you to a pickup location. I’ve done this in the past and was able to meet my driver in the departures area of the airport, but this may change. I usually opt for a taxi from the airport and then use Uber to get back to it at the end of my trip.

Is Uber cheaper than a taxi in Mexico City?

Uber generally costs around the same amount as a Mexico City taxi. However, many travelers prefer Uber because it’s easier to use (especially for those who don’t speak Spanish) since the destination is input into the GPS, and all payment is handled through the app.

Does Mexico City Airport have a subway?

Yes! The Terminal Aérea metro station is located just outside Terminal 1 at the Mexico City airport. Tickets cost 5 pesos. 

How much is a taxi from Mexico City airport to downtown?

A taxi from the MEX airport to Mexico City’s historic center will cost about $250 pesos. Fares are fixed depending on your destination. You pay in advance at the taxi stand inside the airport, so there’s no need to haggle with the taxi driver.

What’s the safest way to get from the Mexico City Airport to my hotel?

Each of the methods I mentioned above is generally safe. But, a private airport transfer is likely the safest way to get to your hotel from the airport. Because they’re a private service, these companies typically act with the utmost professionalism, ensuring you are treated respectfully, and the driver is mindful of traffic laws. I’ve always found private drivers to be more safety conscious on the road than taxi or bus drivers.

How do I get from the Mexico City Airport to Condesa?

The distance from the airport to Condesa is about 9 miles, and it takes around 30 minutes to drive. A taxi is the most convenient option to get there, as they are readily available at the airport. Travelers can also consider using public transportation such as the metro or bus, which will cost a fraction of the price but take longer.

Mexico Travel Planning Resources

🌡️ Do I need travel insurance?

Yes! Healthcare in Mexico is affordable for minor ailments, but travel insurance will give you peace of mind if an emergency arises. Plus, you can add coverage for trip interruption, theft, etc. Get a quote from SafetyWing . 

🏨 What’s the best way to find accommodation in Mexico?

I use a mix of Booking, Airbnb, and Hostelworld. 

Booking.com  is awesome for booking hotels and resorts,  Hostelworld  is great for hostels, and  Airbnb  specializes in apartment rentals, making it a great place to find long-term stays.

💸 How should I exchange money in Mexico?

Use local ATMS to withdraw cash. US travelers should open a Charles Schwab bank account because they’ll refund ATM fees at the end of the month.

Travelers from outside the US should open a Wise account to secure the best currency exchange rates. 

📱 Where can I buy a local SIM card in Mexico?

Pick up a Telcel SIM card at any convenience store. Or, buy an Airalo eSIM online so you’re connected as soon as you land. 

🗣️ Do I need to speak Spanish in Mexico?

No, but it definitely helps you feel more confident and connected. 

RocketSpanish is my favorite program for learning the foundations of the language. If you’re more focused on improving your conversation skills, hire a tutor through iTalki to prep for your trip. 

✈️ What’s the best way to find affordable flights?

I use Skyscanner because it makes it easy to compare rates across different travel days. 

🚖 How do I find a safe airport transfer?

I recommend GetTransfer for airport transfers anywhere in Mexico. 

🚗 What’s the best way to find rental cars in Mexico?

I recommend Discover Cars because they aggregate prices across rental car companies, making it easy to find competitive rates. 

🚐 How do I book bus tickets online in Mexico?

Plan your routes with Rome2Rio , and book your tickets with Busbud — the site is in English and takes foreign credit cards. (Read more here)

🤿 How do I find cool activities and tours in Mexico?

I recommend Viator and Get Your Guide . Viator usually has more options, but it’s worth comparing offerings across both platforms. 

🇲🇽 How can I experience Mexico like a local?

Solo female travelers can hire a local female guide through Greether . Greeters will tailor tours based on your interests— it’s basically like experiencing a destination with a local bestie!

🧳 What’s the best luggage for Mexico?

Unless you’re staying at a resort, a travel pack is recommended. I’ve used this one from Osprey for the last 8+ years. 

👯‍♀️ How do I connect with fellow travelers in Mexico?

Join my Female Travelers in Mexico Facebook group , a supportive community of fellow Mexico travel enthusiasts, where you can find answers to all your travel questions!

Janine is a full-time content writer and travel blogger. In 2017 she and her cat moved from Los Angeles to Mexico and never looked back. Now, she writes in-depth articles to help women travel Mexico safely and confidently. Connect with her on Instagram.

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Mexico City Is Dangerous? Transportation Checklist For Moving Around Safely

Are you planning to visit Mexico City but not sure about how to move around this city safely? How dangerous is Mexico City? Which are the options for transportation in Mexico City? Which are the cheaper, the easiest to use, and the ones to travel more like a local?

Keep reading this article and live the safest and most amazing experience in Mexico City!

If you are looking for tips for moving around in Mexico City safely, here are some ways of transportation tips that may help you out on your mission:

• Why travel to Mexico City? 🇲🇽
• Light Train, Trolleybus, and Buses 🚆
• Private transport 🚕  
• Bonus: What are Some of the Safety Tips for Traveling in Mexico? ✓

If you are ready to learn how to move like a pro in Mexico City, let’s start with your training to become an expert in the transportation of this enormous city!

Why Travel to Mexico City?

Mexico City is currently one of the largest population centers in the world. Officially, the city has a population of around 9 million, while the whole Metropolitan Area reaches more than 21 million.

Over the years, the metropolis has become so huge that it can easily overwhelm an unprepared visitor. But don’t worry – here is our simple guide on how to move efficiently and safely in huge but still incredibly beautiful Mexico City. This city enchants everyone who wants to explore a destination full of tradition, gastronomy , and culture .

But how dangerous is Mexico City? There are lots of prejudices around Mexico City . Nevertheless, we are going to share always the best with you to make you feel comfortable, safe, and most of all, extremely satisfied with your adventure. Perhaps you will change your mind completely if you think Mexico City is dangerous after this.

Metro (subway) is one of the most effective ways to get around Mexico City, especially for long distances. This is due to the fact, that unlike other transport (buses, trolleybuses, taxis) it is not affected by the traffic that is so common in this place. Moreover, owing to ubiquitous cameras and police at each station, it is also the safest means of public transportation. Its main components are railway trains moving mainly underground. The system includes 12 lines connecting the main areas of the city.

You should use the metro carefully because pickpockets are constantly working there. In conclusion, despite its aesthetic imperfection, the metro is perfect for getting around the city. In the daytime, the main highways constantly suffer from traffic jams, and the metro will be much faster than a taxi.

Metro operation hours:

• Monday to Friday – from 5:00 to 00:00;
• Saturday – 6:00 to 00:00;
• Sunday and public holidays -7:00 to 00:00. 
• Ticket price – 5 pesos

2. Metrobus

The Metrobus appeared in 2006. Traffic is carried out via a bus line along Insurgentes Avenue – a boulevard about 70 km long. Similarly to the Metro, in Metrobus, 6 lines cover 120 km around the city , and you can also commute between lines with only one ticket. If you’re not in a hurry and want to enjoy the urban landscape, this is the best option for you. If you are not sure about using the subway (metro) and still think Mexico City is dangerous, you can first try the Metrobus.

All Metrobus buses are tracked in real-time by Mexico City’s police department, and it also has security cameras so you can feel safe by using this transport method. Unlike the Metro, this transport is all around the streets, so the traffic may delay your journey. Mexico City’s administration is implementing a new payment method for Metrobus, so you can access it with your debit or credit card. Actually, in Line 1 -the most important line currently- you can use that payment method by simply putting your credit or debit card on the pay machine.

Metrobus operation hours:

• Monday to Saturday – from 4:30 to 00:00;
• Sunday and public holidays – from 5:00 to 00:00. 
• Ticket price – 6 pesos

Both Metro and Metrobus are the most effective means of transportation around the city. However, during rush hours, those are usually crowded. Therefore, tourists should avoid Mexico City’s metro system from 6:30 to 10:00 and 16:30 to 20:00 .

3. Light Train, Trolleybus, and RTP’s Buses

Light train.

Tren Ligero (“Light Rail”) is a continuation of Mexico City’s metro system. It connects the southernmost metro terminal with the Xochimilco district. Its route begins at the Tasqueña terminal , a very famous bus station, and ends in the southern part of the city, in Xochimilco. The distance it covers is about 13 kilometers, and it has 16 stations, one of them being the Estadio Azteca.

Like the Metro, in this light train, there are police officers in each station and of course a security camera system in each unit. Traveling here is also the safest to use in this vast city. Also, if you have a concert ticket at the Estadio Azteca (Azteca Stadium) or just a ticket for a soccer game, the Tren Ligero is the best option for you.

Light train operation hours:

• Ticket price – 3 pesos

Using the bus in central tourist neighborhoods (e.g., Polanco , Reforma , and Roma ) generally would not be a problem, but taking it to more remote locations, you may feel a bit doubtful; however, the level of safety in the Trolleybus is also incredible. Each bus has camera systems and assigned bus stops.

There are 9 lines of trolleybus available for you to use at any time. Some of them are useful if you’re looking for Bus Centrals such as Central del Norte (North Bus Central) or Taxqueña , or even if you only want to go to areas further away from the city center. Trolleybus hours and prices vary depending on the line since some travel shorter distances. Despite that, Trolleybus is a safe, cheap, and easy way to move long or short distances in Mexico City.

Trolleybus operation hours:

• Monday to Sunday: 5:30 – 23:30 (it can vary depending on the line)
• Ticket price – from 2 pesos to 8 pesos (or more)

The city has a vast network of public and private road transport services between the main areas. Despite being a rather convenient and cheap transport, it is very crowded during rush hours.

Red de Transporte de Pasajeros (RTP)

The Red de Transportes de Pasajeros (Passengers Transport Network in English) is a bus fleet designed to transport all users around the city, but uttermost to zones far away from the city center or to areas where Metro or Metrobus can’t go.

The RTP system has more than 100 lines to travel around the city. You can imagine this as an extension of the Metro since in most subway terminals, you can find an RTP bus stop to reach your destination. And of course, as part of the Metro System, RTP buses have cameras on each bus to guarantee user security . You can click here to see all the available routes.

Actually, most citizens use more than 2 combined ways of transport: RTP and Metro, trolleybus and Metro, etc. RTP buses sometimes have an option for express trave l, meaning the bus will only make a few stops to reach the destination faster . Also, some buses are eco-friendly, which is definitely the best option for taking care of the environment. Please note the hours and prices vary depending on the line. For larger distances, the price can increase, as an example an RTP going from Santa Fe to Estadio Azteca (25km) costs $20 pesos.

RTP operation hours:

• Monday to Sunday: 5:30 – 22:00 (it can vary depending on the line)
• Ticket price – from 4 pesos to 20 pesos (or more)

To use any of the 5 above-mentioned means of transport, you can pay with cash or use a rechargeable plastic card . You can buy the card from vending machines at Metrobus stops. If you plan to use Mexico City’s metro system quite often, we suggest buying a rechargeable plastic card.

Currently, bicycles have become increasingly popular in Mexico City. The government actively supports this trend and allocates funds for new bicycle routes. As a result, bike rental services are available, especially in the central districts. Among them, the most widespread are probably Ecobici and Dezba. Ecobici currently has the widest network of bike stations. Dezba, however, operates mostly in the city center.

Mexico City has 170 kilometers of bicycle path, 9000 bikes, and 687 bike stations where you can pick up and drop off one. Ecobici is owned by Mexico City’s government while Dezba is a private company with electric bikes, in both cases, you must own a debit or credit card to use it. To use Ecobici or Dezba, you’ll be required to register with their apps, an official and up-to-date ID, a credit or debit card, and your personal information.

Ecobici operation hours:

• Monday to Sunday – from 5:00 to 00:30;
• Rent price: per hour – 50 pesos
• Rent plan: 1 day – 128 pesos / 3 days – 234 pesos / 7 days – 391 pesos / Annual plan – 521 pesos

Dezba bikes operation hours:

• Monday to Sunday – from 5:00 to 00:00;
• Rent price: 2 pesos per minute

5. Private Transport

Most taxis in Mexico City have taximeters and normally represent an pretty affordable form of transport, especially on shorter distances. However, if possible, avoid dealing with unlicensed drivers (normally you can see the license on the back door) . Many prejudices surround city transportation, saying that Mexico City is dangerous even for taking taxis.

Nevertheless, before starting your trip, it is also recommended that the driver uses a taximeter. If (s)he doesn’t and you are still OK with that, agree on the price in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises. If you feel that the price is too good to be real, you better refuse the service, find another car, or use a car-hailing service like Uber. In some subway terminals, there are taxi spots ( taxis de sitio in Spanish), in which drivers are only meant to pick up from that spot make the trip, and then return, so it’s a safe place to take a ride.

Taxi operation hours:

Monday to Sunday – all-day

Fee price: 

• During the day – $8.74 pesos start fee, then $1.07 pesos for 250 meters or 45 seconds
• Night fee – from 23:00 to 6:00 – a 20% additional to the normal fee .

Uber and DiDi (Car-hauling services)

Currently, Mexico City, like any modern metropolis, has a wide variety of car-hailing services. Those would probably be your best choice regarding comfort, safety, and price. All of them usually are significantly cheaper than taxis (especially for longer distances of over 2 km) and offer the highest level of safety among all the above-mentioned means of transport. Nowadays, there are around 5 competing car-hailing companies in Mexico City. They mostly have similar prices but different numbers of drivers.

From our experience, we would recommend using one of the 3 biggest ones –  Uber ,   Didi , and Indrive. Both have good prices and huge fleets of cars that will arrive quite quickly at your place. Didi usually is a bit cheaper, but Uber offers more tariffs. E.g. Uber Pool allows sharing the price of the ride with another traveler, while Uber XL offers bigger cars for up to 6 passengers. In the case of In Drive, you can change your tariff so the driver can adjust to your demand.

Car-hauling operation hours:

• Monday to Sunday – all-day.
• Fee price – it depends on the offer and demand of users in the app .

🗺️ Check out our tour: Service of a Private Driver in Mexico City

Bonus: What are Some of the Safest Tips for Traveling in Mexico?

Our tips will give you an awesome experience without any problems. Here are some safety tips for traveling in Mexico:

• Make some research about the places you want to visit
• Backup your passport and ID
• Don’t wander off too far from the main streets
• Take advantage of the currency conversion rate
• Check out Mexico City’s Metro System Map below to locate the best route

Conclusion  

So now, after reading this article, you should be able to move around Mexico City safely, efficiently, and totally like a local. Each of the transports that we discussed has its pros and cons and thus should be used based on your needs, situation, and destiny.

From public transportation, our top choice is the metro due to its relative safety, low price, and high speed. In terms of safety and comfort, we would recommend car-hailing services. Sometimes, the quickest and most efficient would be a combination of both.

Mexico City is Dangerous? That’s the question that many travelers ask every time they want to visit Mexico City. In fact, many prejudices about this place can frighten anyone, even the inhabitants of the city.

Well, now you know how to move safely to Mexico City. What about your experience of traveling here? Do you still think Mexico City is dangerous? Maybe there is still something we need to add? Or do you have helpful advice that can help our readers? Whatever it is, feel free to write it in the comments!

Check out the section Mexico City Tours

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7 Safest Beach Towns In Mexico With Low Crime Rates

Explore the natural wonders, archaeological sites, and gastronomic delights of Mexico while staying safe at these cities with low crime rates.

• Traveling to Mexico? Choose safe beach destinations like Cabo San Lucas with a low crime rate of 42.07 for a worry-free vacation.
• Tulum offers easy-going vibes with a crime rate index of 37.98, making it a sparkling gem of the Riviera Maya for tourists to enjoy.
• La Paz, the safest city in Mexico on the list, promises stunning beaches, desert terrain, and vibrant green waters for a memorable trip.

When traveling, feeling safe is one of the most important things that can make or break the quality of a vacation. For tourists seeking a beach respite in Mexico, legitimate concerns over safety may arise in certain areas. Although Mexico is known for its beautiful beaches, unique focus on eco-tourism, rich history, and delicious food, there are still places in the country that are not amenable for conventional tourism yet.

While many vacations run into unexpected hiccups, tourists can minimize anxieties simply by choosing the right place to go in the first place. For U.S. tourists venturing south of the border, Mexico boasts many beach towns that are as safe as they are beautiful. In this list, you'll find seven beachside cities and towns in Mexico that offer safe vacations, presented in descending order of crime index.

When reading the crime index numbers, it's good to have a comparison in mind. For example, the crime rate in Mexico's most dangerous city of Tijuana is 72.10 (very high) and Mexico City is 67.74 (high) .

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Crime rate index: 47.06.

History comes alive in the Caribbean city of Chetumal. With a crime index of 47.06, it ranks as a relatively safe destination, ideal for a beach vacation rich in history and archeology. After spending an afternoon basking in the warm sunshine of Mahahual Beach , tourists can head to the Museum of Mayan Culture to learn about the incredible artifacts left behind by the Ancient Mayans.

To learn more about this rich history, a trip to the archaeological site of Dzibanche is a must; once a bustling Classic Maya city, Dzibanche once boasted a population of 40,000 people. Tourists can also head to Kohunlich , the site of a sprawling Mayan palace from 500 AD.

Chetumal is considered to be a highly safe city for walking alone during the daylight hours, and moderately safe for walking alone at night. This makes it an excellent choice for adventure-seeking tourists with an interest in archeology, offering the perfect mix of beachside relaxation and historic education.

As in many places in the Yucatan Peninsula, this crime rate index is brought up by the recreational use of drugs, not necessarily by violent crime.

6 Playa del Carmen

Crime rate index: 46.81.

Playa del Carmen is one of the Yucatan's paradise destinations for family travel , and with good reason. This beachside city is notably safe, with a crime index of 46.81 .

Playa del Carmen has no shortage of exciting activities for tourists to do. Tourists traveling with kids will have a blast at the eco-adventure waterpark, Xcaret Park , where families can snorkel to their hearts' content, swim with dolphins, meet exotic animals, and see historical reproductions of Ancient Mayan life. The park was named after the nearby archaeological site of Xcaret, an important trading center for the Ancient Mayans.

What's so great about Playa del Carmen is that it's an excellent entry point for some of Mexico's best historic ruins. Just a short drive away are the awe-inspiring ruins of Chichén Itzá , which are one of the Seven Wonders of the World .

Another great place within driving distance is Cenote Dos Ojos . Cenotes are a staple of the ecology of the Mayan Riviera; these jungle sinkholes offer tourists a cool place to swim after a day of sightseeing in the hot summer sun.

5 Cabo San Lucas

Crime rate index: 42.07.

On the rugged shores of Mexico's Baja California Sur is the city of Cabo San Lucas. For American tourists who are interested in nature adventures, this city is renowned as one of the safest cities to visit in all of Mexico.

With expansive views of the dark blue Pacific Ocean, dramatic geologic rock formations along the coastline, swaying palm trees, and beaches galore, Cabo San Lucas is considered by many to be the perfect place for a Mexican vacation. Tourists can explore beaches like El Medano Beach, Chileno Bay Public Beach, Santa Maria Beach, and Lovers Beach.

Positioned on the wild Pacific, Cabo San Lucas is also home to an excellent fishing scene, great whale-watching, and beachside horseback riding. Besides all of this, Cabo San Lucas is great for golfing, spas, nightlife, and shopping.

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Crime rate index: 39.96.

Another one of Mexico's most safest cities is also located on its Pacific Coast. This is the colorful city of Mazatlan, where tourists can expect a safe beachside getaway. From historic cathedrals to hiking opportunities to peaceful beaches, tourists will find Mazatlan has a plethora of exciting activities to do.

Tourists looking for a thrill would be remiss if they didn't stop at the city's 50 foot cliff diving sites. Those who are looking for a more relaxing time in the city should head to Old Mazatlan, where tourists can shop, eat, and enjoy historic buildings. Those interested in religious history should head to Catedral Mazatlan Basilica de la Inmaculada Concepcion to see a gorgeous 19th-century church.

Those who know a bit about the local history of Mazatlan and are interested in linguistics will know that the city's name means "the place of deer" in Nahuatl. A local place in the city where tourists can experience this linguistic connection is Deer Island (Isla de Venados) . Here, tourists can snorkel, kayak, hike, and go birding.

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Crime rate index: 37.98.

The safe-to-visit city of Tulum is one of the Riviera Maya's most sparkling gems. With crystalline water, archaeological ruins that tower over the coastline, sandy white beaches, and delicious food, Tulum is one of the best places in Mexico to visit for those who are looking for an easy vacation.

Overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean are the archaeological Maya ruins of Tulum. These ruins stand tall on the rugged cliffside, bringing visitors back to an era of empires, pagan gods, and rich culture. A trip to this incredible site will teach tourists about the incredible accomplishments of the Ancient Mayans.

Tourists who are traveling with children will have a blast at the local waterpark, Xel-Há . Here, you can experience excellent snorkeling, a lazy river tour through mangroves, caves, zip-lining into cenotes, and swimming with dolphins.

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2 puerto vallarta, crime rate index: 35.45.

Mexico's Pacific state of Jalisco is home to the picturesque city of Puerto Vallarta. This city is one of the safest places for tourists to visit in Mexico. Tourists to Puerto Vallarta can expect white sandy beaches, electric green water that fades into a deep Pacific blue, and rugged coastlines dotted with scrublands.

Tourists will truly have a safe time walking the streets of Viejo Vallarta (Puerto Vallarta's old town), exploring the vast Vallarta Botanical Gardens, seeing some of Mexico's best art at the creative Cuale River Island, and exploring the Cuale Archaeological Museum .

Crime rate index: 31.96

The safest city in Mexico to visit on this list is La Paz. Located in Mexico's Baja California Sur, La Paz promises tourists ancient churches, incredible rock formations, and electric green water that contrasts starkly against the red rock desert coasts. Not only is La Paz considered to be a very safe city, it's also one of Mexico's hidden gems.

For those who want a taste of La Paz's white sandy beaches, Balandra Beach, Playa Pichilingue, and Ensenada Grande are the places to go. While La Paz is famous for its beaches, it's also famous for its desert terrain. For tourists who want to explore the desert and see cool cacti, the local botanical garden at Sanctuary of the Cactus is the place to go.

Tourists who love wildlife would be remiss without a trip to Isla Espiritu Santo. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Mexico's best places for biodiversity. Here, tourists will meet aquatic mammals, such as sea lions and dolphins, swim the seas with whale sharks and sea turtles, and watch over 100 bird species take to the sky.

Those who want to experience the city's history will enjoy the La Paz Cathedral and the Museo de Antropologia e Historia de Baja California Sur .

Mexico is a popular destination for U.S. tourists, but many worry about safety concerns while traveling. Whether tourists are looking for a great vacation spot or some of the safest places to retire in Mexico, there are always great options for them to choose from.

Is Uber Safe in Mexico City in 2024? Important Safety Tips

Planning a trip to Mexico City and wondering if Uber is safe to use? You’ve come to the right guide!

As a travel blogger that lives in Mexico , I’ve visited Mexico City and taken Uber many times, both with friends and as a solo female traveler.

If it’s your first time visiting Mexico City, it’s natural to wonder about Uber safety, especially if you’re traveling solo or don’t speak the language. 

In this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know about Uber safety in Mexico City , as well as further details about Uber and transportation in the city.

So after reading this complete guide on Uber in Mexico City, you should be prepared to zip around the country’s capital on your next trip!

Ready to find out if Uber is safe in Mexico City? Let’s get started!

Is Uber Safe in Mexico City?

Yes, Uber is typically very safe in Mexico City. Uber is allowed to operate in Mexico City, which makes it a safe, reliable, and inexpensive form of transportation.

I’ve taken Uber in Mexico City many times and have never had any issues or safety concerns. 

Uber is always my preferred method of transportation in Mexico City, as it’s very easy to use and a great way to get to popular attractions around Mexico City like Xochimilco or Teotihuacan .

Plus, I feel more comfortable taking Uber in Mexico City than a random taxi on the street, as everything is tracked in the app and you can see Uber ratings from past rides.

However, as in any destination, you should use common sense and if your Uber driver has a low rating or you notice any suspicious activity, you should cancel the ride.

But as long as you take basic safety precautions, you should feel very comfortable taking Uber in Mexico City.

Is it Safe to Take Uber Alone in Mexico City?

Yes, it is safe to take Uber alone in Mexico City. I have visited Mexico City several times as a solo female traveler and haven’t encountered any problems.

It’s a great way to get around the city and much preferable to crowded public transportation.

However, you should be extra cautious while waiting for your Uber in dangerous neighborhoods and use common sense. 

Some examples include Tepito (near the city center), around Centro Historico, around Arena Mexico (a large indoor arena in Colonia Doctores), outside of Estadio Azteca, and Iztapalapa (near Coyoacan).

Is Uber Allowed in Mexico City?

Yes, Ubers are allowed in Mexico City. Compared to other cities and towns in Mexico, where Ubers are struggling to get a foothold or past the taxi operations, Uber is doing very well in Mexico City.

There are even some designated “Uber pickup/dropoff” locations throughout the city, making it even easier to call an Uber wherever you are.

Why Take an Uber in Mexico City?

Uber is one of the most straightforward modes of transportation in Mexico City. Uber has several advantages compared to popular transport options like the Metro and taxis.

• Safety and security : An Uber is safer than other forms of transportation. For example, the Mexico City Metro (Metro de la Ciudad de Mexico) is notorious for pickpocketing and other petty crimes and is often overcrowded. Plus, Uber’s safety measures, such as the shared tracking option, can help you mitigate any risks or concerns.
• Transparent pricing : It can often be a hassle to haggle the price of a Mexico City taxi down. However, the price of an Uber is transparent, and you don’t have to worry about any of the trouble.
• Language barrier : If you aren’t fluent in Spanish, Uber can help you overcome the language barrier that might be an issue. You can input your destination and payment confirmation without miscommunication.
• Convenience : You can call an Uber car from almost anywhere in the city. You don’t want to worry about navigating to a specific bus stop or the Metro station.

How Much is Uber in Mexico City?

Ubers around Mexico City are affordable, especially compared to fares in the United States or neighboring countries.

The cost of an Uber car in Mexico City will vary, depending on how far you are going and the time of day (Uber in Mexico City also has surge pricing).

However, the average fare for a short trip within the city is around $75 pesos (~$4.40 USD).

Here are some estimated Uber basic fares from the city center to popular destinations (keep in mind this can fluctuate):

• Centro Historico to Frida Kahlo Museum: $140 pesos (~$8 USD)
• Centro Historico to Roma Norte: $100 pesos (~$6 USD)
• Centro Historico to Mexico City International Airport (MEX): $200 pesos (~$12 USD)
• Centro Historico to Xochimilco: $300 pesos (~$18 USD)
• Centro Historico to Teotihuacan: $800 pesos (~$47 USD)
• Centro Historico to Felipe Angeles International Airport (NLU): $600 pesos (~$35 USD)

Is Uber Cheaper than a Taxi in Mexico City?

Generally, Uber is cheaper than a regular taxi in Mexico City. Uber prices are more transparent, and there is a much smaller chance of getting scammed by the taxi driver for more money.

However, sometimes Uber has surge prices, which go up due to high demand. In this case, Uber can get more expensive. 

If you want to cut the cost, you can go for a short walk to lessen the distance if you’re in a safe neighborhood.

Is Uber Safe at Mexico City Airport?

While there were rumors of a Mexico City Airport Uber ban, Uber in Mexico City Airport is safe and reliable. And compared to airport taxis, Uber is usually more affordable. 

So if you’re trying to decide to take a taxi or Uber from Mexico City airport, I would recommend taking an Uber.

Uber Pickup at Mexico City International Airport (MEX)

Using Uber at Mexico City International Airport (MEX) is straightforward and common. All you have to do is head to your terminal’s main exit and follow signs pointing to the taxi or rideshare pickup.

The Uber Mexico City Airport pickup location is just outside the airport, but keep an eye on your Uber app, as it will also show where the driver is expecting you.

The airport can get pretty chaotic, so watch for your driver, as they will likely only drive through once for you.

Uber Pickup at Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU)

Felipe Angeles International Airport (NLU) is a little more tricky because it’s the newer airport and much further away from the Mexico City center.

You can exit the main terminal and follow signs to where the taxi and rideshares pickup. Finding a driver might be a bit more challenging there so if Uber doesn’t work, try Cabify or Didi.

Possible Uber Scams in Mexico City

While Uber is known to be the easiest and safest way to get around such a large city, it’s not without fault. 

These are some Uber scams floating around Mexico City and other areas to be cautious of (but keep in mind that these are very rare):

• Mugging scam : Some have reported while waiting for their Uber, they were mugged. The idea is that your Uber driver shares your location with accomplices so they know exactly where you are. They rob you and tell you to move on. The Uber driver shows up, but you’ve left after getting robbed, so they report it as a “canceled by rider.”
• Ask for cash : If you paid by card in the Uber app, the driver insists that you didn’t pay by card, and they refuse to let you out until you pay for your fare in cash. And because you did settle in the app, you paid twice.
• Forget to end the trip : Maybe not always intentionally, but Uber drivers can also forget to end the journey at the designated dropoff spot, so you end up getting charged more for the longer distance.

Uber App in Mexico City Safety Features

Over the years, Uber has developed a variety of safety features to make you feel more secure and mitigate any risks. 

This provides a bit more reassurance compared to the minimal features put forth by local taxi companies.

Here are some features you can utilize while using Uber in Mexico City if you want further protection during your trip:

• Audio recording
• Trip sharing with trusted contacts
• Access to an emergency button and security alerts

Uber in Mexico City Safety Tips

Here are some Mexico City Uber safety tips that should become common sense. They will add some extra reassurance and protection:

• Check the Uber driver’s rating: Always double check the Uber driver’s rating after the ride is confirmed.  I recommend sticking with drivers with an Uber rating of 4.8 or higher.  If they have a low rating, don’t hesitate to cancel the ride.
• Stick to major landmarks for pickup: If possible, it’s best to call for an Uber near major landmarks in Mexico City.  This will ensure that you’re closer to crowds and not waiting in an unsafe area.
• Always check the license plate : Be sure to confirm the license plate and the driver’s name before entering the car.
• Keep a close eye on the map : Keep the map open in the application to ensure you take a proper route to your destination.
• Share your trip with a friend : Use the trip-sharing feature in the Uber app to share the trip with a friend or family member.
• Be prepared for traffic: The traffic in Mexico City is next level so get comfortable and be prepared for a longer trip.
• Double-check for personal belongings : Ensure you have all your belongings before exiting the Uber.
• Don’t forget travel insurance : Always have active travel insurance in the rare instance you fall victim to a petty crime or scam. I recommend using Travel Insurance Master where you can compare plans and prices from popular providers.

How to Use Uber in Mexico City

The Uber app in Mexico City works the same way as anywhere else. You must open the app, call a driver to your desired destination, and confirm your pickup spot. 

Some busy areas in Mexico City may have “Uber locations” on the app, making it easier to call a driver.

Keep in mind prices will be in Mexican pesos so use a currency converter if you need to calculate the cost.

Uber Ride Types in Mexico City

You’ll notice several different options for transportation when you call an Uber. Here are the common ones in Mexico City:

• UberX: Traditional Uber ride, all to yourself, best for a small group (1-4 people).
• Uber Planet: Comes at an extra cost, but a part of your fare will help offset your carbon footprint (1-4 people).
• Comfort: Slightly bigger cars and more comfortable (1-4 people)
• Uber XL: Larger vehicles for larger groups (1-6 people)
• Uber Black: Advertised as sustainable travel in luxury cars (1-4 people)
• Uber Black SUV: Similar to Uber Black, but can fit larger groups (1-6 people)

Other Ways to Ride:

• Moto: More affordable and faster motorcycle Uber rides (1 person)
• Flash Moto: Can send small items (0 people, only packages/items)
• Assist: Special assistance from certified Uber drivers (1-4 people)

Uber Mexico City Payment Methods

Like most other locations, you can pay for your Mexico Uber rides with a variety of different methods:

• Credit Card: You can connect a credit or debit card to your account (a credit card is better as there is more protection, and nobody will have access to your direct funds). Make sure to use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to save a little on each purchase.
• Cash : You can also opt to pay in cash. If you do this, make sure to have Mexican pesos and try to make small bills, as Uber drivers don’t always have change.
• Paypal: You can also connect your Uber account to your existing PayPal account, which can then be connected to multiple cards.
• Apple Pay: You can also set up Apple Pay as a form of payment on your Uber account.

Should You Tip Uber Drivers in Mexico City?

Tipping your Uber driver in Mexico City is optional, though always appreciated. 

If you’d like to tip, anywhere between 10%-20% is considered generous, and Uber drivers prefer cash tips vs. in the app.

Uber Alternatives in Mexico City

Besides regular taxis and Uber, several other application-based car services are gaining popularity in Mexico City in recent years.

• DiDi : DiDi is a rideshare app that functions similarly to Uber and is becoming more popular worldwide. Some advantages include more safety features (women can choose only to request female Uber drivers) and sometimes cheaper fares.
• Cabify : Cabify is another rideshare app similar to other popular apps but charges passengers only on the distance for the most direct route between the two points.

However, remember that these safe alternatives are much less popular, so finding a driver will likely be more challenging.

Where Else in Mexico Can You Use Uber?

Uber in Mexico can be confusing, as it operates in some cities, but can be unsafe or dangerous to use in others.

For example, some popular tourist destinations in Mexico where Uber is not available are Cancun , Playa del Carmen , Tulum , and the entire Riviera Maya region.

Even though the state government legalized Uber in the Riviera Maya, local taxi unions drove Uber drivers out of town and have made it unsafe to even try and use Uber.

This means that Uber at Cancun Airport is not available, so I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation or taking the ADO airport bus .

Here’s a list of some popular tourist destinations in Mexico that currently have Uber:

• Guadalajara
• Mexico City
• Puerto Vallarta
• San Miguel de Allende

Uber in Mexico City: FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Uber safety in Mexico City:

Yes, Uber is available in Mexico City and is a reliable and trustworthy form of transportation in Mexico City.

Yes, Uber is available in Mexico City and your Uber taxi app should work as it does anywhere else in the world.

Yes, Uber is reliable in Mexico City. Compared to other forms of transportation, Uber is the most reliable way to get around.

Uber is the best way to get around in Mexico City. It’s easier, more convenient, and more reliable than other ways to get around the city.

Uber is the safest mode of transportation in Mexico City because you don’t have to worry about crowded public transport or unreliable taxi drivers.

It is generally safe to take a cab in Mexico City, but they can often be a hassle to negotiate.  If you do take a cab, you should be cautious and only use official Mexico City taxis that are pink and white in color.

Some Uber drivers in Mexico City speak English, but not all.

Conclusion: Is it Safe to Take Uber in Mexico City?

So, is Uber safe in Mexico City? Generally speaking, yes, Uber is safe in Mexico City. From my experience, it’s the safest and most affordable way to get around Mexico City.

Regular taxis can be unreliable, especially if there is a language barrier, and many people experience “broken meters” in taxis that charge significantly more.

Public buses and the Metro are often crowded, complicated to navigate, and risky due to pickpocketing and other safety problems.

So, that leaves us with Uber. Fortunately, Uber is one of the best ways to mitigate risks and concerns while getting around Mexico City. 

You’ll still want to take basic safety precautions, but you should feel very safe taking Uber to get around Mexico City.

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