Arrival in Mexico and getting around

Visiting Mexico is easier than ever, thanks to a wide range of international and domestic travel options. Whether you’re flying from abroad or exploring within the country, understanding flights, transfers, and local transport helps you plan a smooth, stress-free journey.

International flights

Mexico City is the hub for international travelers, served by most major airlines worldwide. US carriers also fly to key provincial cities. When connecting within Mexico, remember to clear Immigration and Customs first – processes can be slow, so allow extra time.

Many travelers use Mexico City as a transit point. After landing, you must complete customs and immigration before your domestic connection. Planning extra time between flights avoids stress, as lines can be long, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays.

Domestic flights in Mexico

Mexico offers a vast network of domestic flights connecting major cities and tourist destinations. Low-cost airlines operate alongside traditional carriers, making travel convenient and affordable. Check schedules and fares in advance for the best deals.

Domestic travel is ideal for covering long distances quickly, like from Mexico City to Cancun, Guadalajara, or Monterrey. Frequent flyers benefit from booking early, as popular routes fill fast. Airlines offer online check-in and baggage options for smoother travel across Mexico.

Arriving in Mexico

Once you land in Mexico, there are plenty of ways to get around efficiently and affordably. After clearing immigration and customs, you’ll likely need transport to your hotel. Planning ahead ensures a smooth start to your trip, especially after a long flight.

Airport transfers: Many major resorts offer airport pickups, making your arrival stress-free. Pre-booking a hotel transfer guarantees a safe, direct ride to your accommodation and saves time navigating taxis or public transport, especially in busy tourist destinations.

Authorized taxis: Every airport has official taxi booths, called “Taxi Autorizado,” with regulated fares based on zones. Prices are similar across providers. Apps like Uber or Cabify also operate at some airports, offering convenient alternatives to taxis for travelers.

Suburban vans: Popular tourist destinations like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Los Cabos offer shared vans to local hotels. Vans make multiple stops, so the ride takes longer but costs far less than a private taxi while remaining comfortable and reliable.

National buses: From Mexico City Airport, buses connect to nearby cities like Cuernavaca, Queretaro, and Puebla. For destinations not directly served, take a taxi to a major bus terminal. Buses are an economical way to reach most parts of Mexico efficiently.

Local buses or metro: Traveling light? Mexico City’s Metro and local buses are convenient options. However, they aren’t ideal for travelers with heavy luggage or valuables like cameras and laptops. For safety and comfort, consider taxis or ride-hailing apps instead.

Traveling around Mexico is easier than many expect, whether by air, bus, or car. Planning ahead, knowing your options, and allowing extra time for connections ensures a smooth journey. Explore Mexico’s vibrant cities, beaches, and culture with confidence and ease.

Flying to Mexico from the USA and Canada

Daily flights connect the US and Canada to Mexico’s main airports. Check schedules and fares in advance for the best deals. Remember, a U.S. Passport Card cannot be used for air travel; a valid passport is required for all flights to Mexico.

Driving to Mexico from the USA or Canada

Driving your own or a rental car into Mexico beyond the 35 km border zone requires permits, paperwork, and valid Mexican insurance. Planning ahead ensures compliance with regulations, and separate insurance is usually necessary for a safe and legal journey.

Major European cities offer daily flights to Mexico, making travel convenient for international visitors. Direct flights from London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Madrid land at Mexico City, while seasonal package flights serve resorts like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Los Cabos.

From the UK, travelers can fly direct to Mexico City with British Airways or Aeromexico, or connect via the USA. Continental Europe also has seasonal tour flights to Mexico’s top resorts. Planning ahead ensures the best fares and smooth connections across continents.

Travelers from the UK can find a wide range of flights to Mexico through major airlines and travel agents. Booking early often secures the best fares and convenient schedules. Planning ahead helps ensure smooth connections and more flexible options for seasonal travel.

There are no direct flights from Australia or New Zealand to Mexico. Most travelers connect via the USA, with Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Miami, Atlanta, Chicago, and New York offering the best options for onward flights to Mexico.

Alternatively, travelers can fly via Tokyo or a European hub to reach Mexico City. Comparing routes and fares in advance helps secure the most convenient and cost-effective journey, ensuring a smoother start to your Mexican adventure.