Travel center

Getting Around

You are never far from the cultural and business capital of Mexico, and getting there has never been easier. More than 20 cities in the United States and Canada offer non-stop air travel to Mexico City. And with an average flying time of just four hours, a trip to Mexico City is a convenient, affordable and rewarding experience. view map

Mexico City, one of the world's greatest urban centers, welcomes more than 12 million visitors per year. Despite its size, it is easy to get around the city, especially with a modern subway system that links the hundreds of popular attractions.

Getting to Mexico City

Unlike a trip to Europe or beyond, Mexico City is just a few hours away. The city enjoys non-stop air service from many U.S. cities, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Newark, Miami, Phoenix, San Francisco and Washington D.C.

Transportation

There are many great options for getting around Mexico City. Hotels can arrange for private vehicles and taxis - an easy option since many drivers do not speak english. The city's modern subway system has 163 stations and runs late into the night. You can always get a cab — the city has over 100,000 taxis. And new dedicated traffic lanes make low-emission buses one of the faster modes of transportation. As the city expands its Green Plan, an increasing number of people get around by bike. Mayor Ebrard has encouraged bicycle use around the city with free bike loans and new and upgraded bike paths.

Marcelo Ebrard, Mayor of Mexico City, tours construction of Metro’s new subway line #12. The project is a $2 billion investment expanding Mexico City’s modern subway system across the southeastern region of the city.

Neighborhoods

Mexico City is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own charm and personality. The historic center is the heart of the city and is the home of many of the city's most famous landmarks. Polanco and Condesa each have numerous hotel, restaurant, shopping and entertainment options. About ten miles to the west is the city's modern neighborhood of Santa Fe, home to multinational corporations, boutique hotels, and chic dining and nightlife. Be sure to take advantage of the unique aspects of all of these neighborhoods during your stay.

Public safety

Mexico City is a safe place to visit, and public safety is one of the highest priorities for the city's leadership. As in any large metropolitan area, visitors should take common-sense precautions to ensure their well-being. Mexico City has an experienced, well-trained police force of more than 80,000 professionals.

Mexico City is currently installing a network of 8,000 video cameras in high-traffic locations to aid in crime prevention – the first 2,100 cameras were installed in December 2009. The video surveillance system will be the most modern in the world, with each camera system containing a loudspeaker for public announcements during times of crisis, a fire alarm and a "panic button" for citizens. The video system will be integrated with the city's five command, control and communications centers, with two mobile CCC units soon to be deployed. The city's video surveillance network will represent an investment of nearly $500 million.

Mexico City's leadership has sought extensive police and security advice from officials in London, Paris, Israel and Singapore, among other cities, as is developing and implementing crime prevention programs based on some of the best practices of each of these jurisdictions.