1. Is Mexico City Safe for Tourists?
First and foremost, Mexico City is much safer than what you often see in the news. However, like any major global capital, it has its contrasts. The tourist areas where we stay and explore are perfectly safe for walking and enjoying.
Moreover, while there are neighborhoods that are best avoided, they are not places we will ever visit during our tours. My job is to ensure you enjoy the beauty of the city while staying in the right areas. Therefore, you can relax and focus on the history and culture.
2. Where to Stay: Beyond Roma and Condesa
Many visitors from the USA and Canada believe that Roma Norte and Condesa are the only safe spots. In addition, some agencies wrongly market them as the “Historic Center.” Consequently, tourists end up stuck in terrible traffic every single day.
Actually, areas like Paseo de la Reforma and Colonia Juárez are just as safe, more upscale, and much closer to the main points of interest. Staying there will save you hours of travel time.
3. Arrival: How to Get from the Airport (AICM)
Currently, we do not recommend using Uber at the airport. Due to local regulations, Uber drivers are often blocked from picking up passengers at the terminals. To find one, you would have to walk about 1 km (0.6 miles) outside the federal zone with your luggage.
Instead, the best and safest option is to use the authorized taxi stands inside the airport (such as Porto Taxi, Nueva Imagen, or Sitio 300). You simply go to the stand, state your hotel, pay upfront, and take your ticket to the designated gate. It is simple, legal, and secure.
4. Getting Around: Taxis vs. Uber
While we don’t recommend Uber for the airport, it is the best option for moving around the city. However, you should never, under any circumstances, take the pink and white street taxis. Unfortunately, scams and unpleasant experiences are reported daily with these units.
Always use Uber for city travel. You will see the price beforehand, the route is tracked, and you won’t have to negotiate or worry about your safety.
5. What to do in Case of an Earthquake?
Mexico is located in a high seismic zone, and small tremors happen daily. Nevertheless, most are never felt in the city. If an earthquake stronger than 5.5 magnitude is detected, the Seismic Alert will sound through loudspeakers across the city.
If this happens, do not panic. You have approximately 50 to 60 seconds to grab your essentials and exit the building. Move to a designated safe zone in the street, away from glass or power lines. Once the movement stops and authorities give the “all clear,” we can simply resume our activities.
6. Which Airport Am I Flying From? (MEX vs. NLU)
Many travelers confuse the airport they will be departing from in Mexico City. Always check your ticket carefully. If it shows the airport code “MEX”, it refers to Benito Juárez International Airport, which is relatively close to the Historic Center, about 12 km (7.5 miles) away, or roughly 30 minutes depending on traffic.
However, if your ticket shows “NLU”, it refers to Felipe Ángeles International Airport (also known as Santa Lucía). This airport is located much farther, approximately 40–45 km (25–28 miles) from central areas, and the journey can take around 1 hour or more, depending on traffic conditions.
This distinction is especially important if you have a connecting flight. You definitely don’t want to allow too little time between airports.