Mexico City Transportation – Taxi, Train, Bus & Airport Tips

Mexico City Transportation

As one of the biggest cities in the world, Mexico City boasts traveler attractions that are sprawled over a vast area. Fortunately, it’s easy to get around using different types of transportation.

From Airport to Downtown

The most convenient way  to arrange transportation from the airport is to find the desk where you can take an authorized taxi and pre-pay by zone. If there are three or fewer, ask for a sedan or you’ll be sold a more expensive van. You can also prebook a taxi before arriving, such as from Mexico Airport Transfers. Don’t accept rides from the hawkers who will steer you to an unofficial taxi.

Metro

The subway system is fast, efficient, goes almost everywhere, and costs under 50 US cents for each trip, including multiple transfers. The first two cars are generally reserved for women and children. Around rush hour, the trains can get really crowded, so watch out for pickpockets. Large suitcases are not allowed.

Taxis

Do not hail taxis off the street, or you’ll risk being scammed or worse, especially if you don’t speak Spanish. Either have your hotel call an official one for you or wait at the Sitio stands. Official taxis have meters. If you do not speak Spanish, have a local write down the address on a piece of paper that you can show to the driver.

Buses

Buses are inexpensive but they can get crowded and have to deal with traffic jams. The red and white Metrobús have women-only versions that are available on platforms with pink signs. The red double-decker Turibus is for tourists and gives you commentary on popular sites. You can take it for an overview of the city, and get on and off as much as you like for the one-day fare.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about transportation in Mexico City.