Quick Guide

Despite the peak-season crowds, visit between March and May for beautiful weather, with temps typically reaching the upper 70s.

If you’re into festivals, book a trip in late October for the popular Day of the Dead activities, ranging from parades and concerts to candlelit cemeteries and ofrendas (remembrance altars).

Visas

U.S. citizens must present a valid passport when entering Mexico. U.S. citizens do not require a visa unless they plan to stay in the country for more than 180 days. Visit the Mexican National Institute of Migration’s (Instituto Nacional de Migración, INM) website for the most current entry, exit and visa requirements.

Money

The official currency is the Mexican peso, but U.S. dollars and major credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere. Although travelers can exchange dollars for pesos at the airport and some hotels, banks usually offer the best rates. Expect to tip at hotels, on guided tours, and at bars, restaurants and spas.

Travel Health

Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Fly into Mexico City Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX), about three miles east of the downtown area.

Getting Around

Avoid driving a car — to, from or in Mexico City — as navigating the congested streets (and trying to find parking) is difficult. Your best bet? Take a taxi or Uber (both safe options). You can also hop on the affordable (but very crowded) Metrobús, which requires purchasing a smart card.

Local Lingo

Because of its sheer size, you won’t be able to visit all of Mexico City’s colonias (neighborhoods) during a short trip — there are more than 350 of them! To explore the area, ask for a taxi de sitio,a safe and official transportation service.

Must-Have Apps

Google Translate; WhatsApp; Uber; Rome2rio; CDMX

Insider Tip

You’ll feel on top of the world (literally) thanks to Mexico City’s high elevation — more than 7,300 feet above sea level. Stay hydrated, limit alcohol and get accustomed to the thinner air before engaging in strenuous activities, like climbing up the pyramids.

Despite the peak-season crowds, visit between March and May for beautiful weather, with temps typically reaching the upper 70s.

If you’re into festivals, book a trip in late October for the popular Day of the Dead activities, ranging from parades and concerts to candlelit cemeteries and ofrendas (remembrance altars).

Visas

U.S. citizens must present a valid passport when entering Mexico. U.S. citizens do not require a visa unless they plan to stay in the country for more than 180 days. Visit the Mexican National Institute of Migration’s (Instituto Nacional de Migración, INM) website for the most current entry, exit and visa requirements.

Money

The official currency is the Mexican peso, but U.S. dollars and major credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere. Although travelers can exchange dollars for pesos at the airport and some hotels, banks usually offer the best rates. Expect to tip at hotels, on guided tours, and at bars, restaurants and spas.

Travel Health

Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Fly into Mexico City Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX), about three miles east of the downtown area.

Getting Around

Avoid driving a car — to, from or in Mexico City — as navigating the congested streets (and trying to find parking) is difficult. Your best bet? Take a taxi or Uber (both safe options). You can also hop on the affordable (but very crowded) Metrobús, which requires purchasing a smart card.

Local Lingo

Because of its sheer size, you won’t be able to visit all of Mexico City’s colonias (neighborhoods) during a short trip — there are more than 350 of them! To explore the area, ask for a taxi de sitio,a safe and official transportation service.

Must-Have Apps

Google Translate; WhatsApp; Uber; Rome2rio; CDMX

Insider Tip

You’ll feel on top of the world (literally) thanks to Mexico City’s high elevation — more than 7,300 feet above sea level. Stay hydrated, limit alcohol and get accustomed to the thinner air before engaging in strenuous activities, like climbing up the pyramids.