Mexico City is an exciting, diverse, and cultured place with plenty to see and do. When you arrive at the airport, the first thing you need to sort out is how to get to Downtown.
Mexico City International Airport, one of the busiest in Latin America, handles over 100,000 passengers daily. Thankfully, the city’s excellent public transport makes it easy to reach your destination.
When I lived there, I often used Uber to get around, including trips from the airport to the city center. However, there are plenty of other options like the Metro, local buses, or private transfers. If you’re planning to explore beyond the city, renting a car is also a viable option.
The Metro is not only the cheapest but also one of the quickest ways to get from the airport to Downtown. The Metro network includes 12 lines and 195 stations, making it a vast system. You might need to change lines depending on your final destination. From Terminal 1, follow the “Metro” signs to reach Terminal Aérea Station on Line 5. Tickets cost only 5 MXN ($0.20), and the journey usually takes around 50 minutes. Just note that very large luggage isn’t technically allowed, although this rule is not always enforced.
Be mindful of your flight arrival time. The Metro can be extremely busy during rush hour, 6-9 am and 6-9 pm on weekdays. If you don’t have much luggage and don’t mind crowds, it’s a great option. The Metro runs from 5 am to midnight on weekdays, 6 am to midnight on Saturdays, and 7 am to midnight on Sundays and public holidays. While generally safe during the day, there can be incidents of crime, especially at night. Solo travelers might prefer a taxi or Uber if arriving after dark.
A shared airport shuttle is another budget-friendly option, especially if you have bulky luggage. These can be pre-booked and shared with other passengers, costing around MXN 180 ($9 USD) per person. However, because shuttles make multiple stops, the journey can be longer, typically 40-60 minutes.
Taxis provide a faster option, with trips from the airport to Downtown taking about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Official airport taxis start from 300 MXN ($15 USD), and prepaid rides can be arranged at kiosks in the arrivals hall. This eliminates the need to negotiate fares in Spanish.
Another budget option is the Metrobús, with a ride to the city center costing 30 MXN ($1.50 USD). Get a Metrobús Smart Card from the machines in the arrivals hall before boarding. Line 4 takes you from the airport to Colonia Buenavista, northwest of the Centro Histórico, in about 45-60 minutes. However, as with the Metro, avoid peak hours and large luggage.
Uber is highly recommended for its convenience and ease of use, with fares starting at 200 MXN ($10 USD). Like taxis, Uber rides to the city center take around 20-30 minutes. It’s especially useful for groups or travelers with bulky luggage and for those who don’t speak Spanish, as the entire transaction can be done through the app.
Renting a car is another option, though likely the most expensive. It’s recommended only if you plan extensive travel outside the city center. Driving in Mexico City can be challenging due to heavy traffic and difficult parking. If you decide to rent, avoid peak hours and make sure you have comprehensive insurance coverage.
If you prefer a hassle-free option, consider booking a private transfer. These can cost between MXN 300-400 ($15-20 USD) and can be shared to reduce costs. The driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall, regardless of your flight’s timing.
In summary, Uber is often the best choice for getting from the airport to your accommodation due to its affordability and convenience. For budget travelers, the Metro is an excellent choice during the day. Regardless of your choice, transportation from Mexico City airport to Downtown is generally straightforward and stress-free.
