Mexico City Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Practical tips for Mexico City

• Only use Uber/Didi (never street taxis) — same rules for both airports.

• Altitude 2,240m — first day, drink water, skip alcohol, eat lightly.

• Tipping 10–15% at restaurants + MX$20–50 for hotel porters.

Staying safe and comfortable

Local emergency number: 911.

• Roma, Condesa, Polanco, Coyoacán, Centro (day) safe with normal city awareness.

• Only use Uber/Didi (never street taxis); avoid empty Metro cars late.

• Altitude 2,240m — first day drink water, skip alcohol, eat light.

• Avoid Tepito, Iztapalapa, Ciudad Neza — high-crime areas not for tourists.

• Emergency 911 (all services); 078 tourist assistance (English).

Visas and entry

Entry policy: visa free, typically up to 180 days. US, UK, EU, Canadian, Japanese, Australian, NZ + most Latin American + Schengen passports enter visa-free for up to 180 days. Fill FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) card at airport — keep the stamped receipt. eVisa options for others via consulmex.sre.gob.mx.

Budgeting your trip

Accommodation is the largest controllable cost in Mexico City. Compare live rates for your dates and neighbourhood shortlist before locking in flights — the difference between areas is often larger than the difference between travel weeks.