How to get around Mexico City by Metro, Metrobús, and airport transit

Key Transit Modes and When Each Wins

Metro: The underground network cuts beneath traffic across the valley. It wins for fast daytime travel over long distances, though interchange stations require long walks through transfer tunnels.

Metrobús: Dedicated-lane buses along main avenues like Insurgentes and Reforma. It wins for central hops between Roma, Condesa, and Juárez with street-level orientation.

Ride-Hailing: App cars win late at night, for direct trips between outer districts, and when carrying luggage.

Fares and the Mobility Card

The rechargeable Tarjeta de Movilidad Integrada (MI Card) is mandatory for the Metro, Metrobús, and Trolebús. Available at station kiosks, it does not suit visitors who stay within one walkable area or use only rideshares.

MEX Airport Transfers

• Metrobús Line 4: Connects Terminals 1 and 2 to downtown. A low-cost choice with luggage racks, though traffic can delay travel.
• Metro Line 5: Departs from Terminal 1. Lowest cost band, but requires line changes and has staircases unfit for heavy luggage.
• Authorized Taxis and Rideshares: Pre-paid counters and app pickups offer door-to-door ease in a higher cost band.

Practical Transit Rules

Rush Hours: Weekday peak periods bring dense crowding. Front cars on trains and buses are strictly reserved for women and children.

Hours and Luggage: Lines operate until midnight. Large suitcases are hard to navigate through narrow turnstiles during busy hours.

Accessibility: Metrobús provides ramp access and level boarding, whereas many older Metro stations lack working elevators.