Mexico City

US, Canadian, EU, Australian, and many other nationals can enter Mexico visa-free for up to 180 days as tourists. You'll receive a FMM (tourist card) on arrival - keep it safe as you'll need it to exit. Check inm.gob.mx for requirements.

By Air: Mexico City International Airport (MEX/AICM) is Latin America's busiest hub, located 5km east of the city. New Felipe Ángeles Airport (NLU) opened 40km north.

By Bus: First-class buses connect to all major Mexican cities from TAPO, Terminal Norte, Terminal Sur, and Terminal Poniente stations.

Spanish is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas, upscale restaurants, and hotels in neighborhoods like Polanco, Condesa, and Roma, but basic Spanish is very helpful elsewhere.

Mexican Peso (MXN). Exchange rate roughly 17-20 MXN per USD. Cards accepted at most restaurants and shops in central neighborhoods, but cash is essential for street food, markets, and taxis. ATMs widely available - withdraw large amounts to minimize fees.

Metro: Extensive 12-line system, incredibly cheap (5 pesos) but crowded during rush hour. Watch belongings.

Metrobús: BRT system with dedicated lanes, faster than metro for some routes (6 pesos).

Uber/Didi: Widely used and affordable ($3-8 for most trips). Much safer and more reliable than street taxis.

Ecobici: Bike share system in central neighborhoods (45-minute rides free with subscription).

Walking: Neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, Coyoacán, and Centro Histórico are very walkable.

Metro: Line 5 from Terminal 1, but not recommended with luggage.

Metrobús: Line 4 to downtown (30 pesos), manageable with light luggage.

Autorizado Taxis: Official airport taxis with fixed rates (200-300 pesos to central neighborhoods). Buy tickets inside terminal.

Uber/Didi: Designated pickup areas, typically 150-250 pesos to central areas (30-60 min depending on traffic).