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Mexico City Airport, also known as Benito Juárez International Airport, is located just 8 miles from the city centre. The airport offers a wide range of amenities, including diverse dining options, duty-free shopping, currency exchange services, and airport lounges. If you have a long layover, you may want to explore Mexico City. It is recommended to have at least an 8-hour layover to allow for traffic and airport procedures. You can use taxis, the metro, or Uber to get to the city centre, where you can visit attractions such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, Templo Mayor, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes. The airport also offers luggage storage facilities, making it convenient for passengers who want to explore the city during their layover.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Name | Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX) |
| Airport Location | Eastern part of Mexico City |
| Distance from City Center | 8 miles (13 km) |
| Transport Options | Taxi, Uber, Metro, Shuttle Bus, Rideshare |
| Transport Time | 40 minutes to 1 hour |
| Airport Facilities | Luggage Storage, Lounges, Parking Lots, Banks, ATMs, Currency Exchange Booths, Car Rentals, Tourist Information Desks |
| Dining Options | Over 100 eateries, including cafes, bars, and restaurants |
| Shopping | Duty-free shopping, souvenir shops |
| Nearby Attractions | Metropolitan Cathedral, Templo Mayor, Palacio de Bellas Artes, Zócalo |
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What You'll Learn
Where to eat: from street food to upscale restaurants
If you're looking to eat near Mexico City Airport, there are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from street food to upscale restaurants.
For those who want to grab a quick bite, the airport itself offers a variety of eateries, including cafes, bars, and sit-down restaurants. You can find everything from tacos and tortas to international options like Chinese, American fast food, and Starbucks. The airport's food court is always bustling, no matter the time of day, and there are also restaurants located just outside the airport, such as Taqueria Orinoco and Taqueria el Califa, which are open late and are highly recommended by locals.
If you have a longer layover or are willing to venture into the city, Mexico City offers a vibrant food scene with numerous street food options and upscale restaurants. Street food in Mexico City is a must-try, with tacos al pastor and chargrilled corn being local favourites. For a guided experience, you can join a walking tour, such as Club Tengo Hambre, which will take you to the best taquerías and hidden stands downtown.
For a more upscale dining experience, renowned restaurants like Pujol and Quintonil offer a taste of Mexico City's high-end culinary destinations. Additionally, neighbourhoods like Roma, Condesa, San Miguel Chapultepec, and Juarez offer a variety of culinary experiences, from longtime buzzing spots to newer destinations.
With a mix of modern and traditional cuisine, Mexico City's food scene is sure to satisfy any appetite. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite at the airport or exploring the city's culinary delights, there's something for everyone in this vibrant metropolis.
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Transport options: from taxis to the metro
Mexico City International Airport (MEX) is located just 8 miles (13 km) from the city centre, and there are several transport options for getting into the city.
If you're looking for a quick and easy transfer, taxis are readily available at the airport. Taxi fares are prepaid at booths inside the airport, and you'll be given a ticket to hand to your driver. This service costs around $15 to get downtown. However, be aware of pirate taxis operating without permission, which may approach you inside or outside the terminal. These are best avoided, as they are operating illegally and may charge you a higher rate.
Ridesharing services like Uber are also available from the airport and can be booked through the app. Uber accepts both cash and credit card payments.
If you're looking for a cheaper option, the Metro subway takes around 45 minutes one way to the city centre. You can walk to the Terminal Area Station from the airport and take the Yellow Line 5, but you'll need to transfer to reach the centre.
If you have a longer layover, it's worth bearing in mind that Mexico City traffic can be heavy, so it's best to allow plenty of time to get to and from the airport.
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Airport facilities: lounges, luggage storage, and more
Mexico City International Airport (AICM) is the busiest airport in Latin America by passenger numbers and aircraft movements. It offers a wide range of facilities and services to cater to the millions of passengers who pass through its terminals each year.
Terminals
The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is the older and larger of the two, with a central building and four concourses (A, B, C, and D). It serves most domestic and international flights. Terminal 2 is newer and primarily serves Aeromexico and its partners. Both terminals have a variety of facilities, including lounges, restaurants, shops, and services.
Lounges
Several lounges are available at Mexico City Airport, offering passengers a quiet and comfortable space to wait for their flights. These include:
- Lounge 17 - Located in Terminal 1, it offers a variety of services, including a business center, resting areas, and a self-service bar.
- The Grand Lounge Elite - Found in Terminal 1, it provides a premium experience with comfortable seating, a buffet, and shower facilities.
- Aeromexico Salones Premier - There are multiple Aeromexico lounges in both terminals, offering exclusive services for eligible
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Safety tips: avoiding illegal cabs and pickpockets
If you're looking for ways to stay safe and avoid scams at Mexico City Airport, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Avoiding Illegal Cabs
- Book your airport taxi in advance. This way, your driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall, and you can avoid the risk of being scammed by taxi touts inside the terminal.
- Use a ride-sharing app like Uber, which is a reliable alternative to street taxis. However, note that Uber has been operating illegally within the airport due to restrictions on digital platforms in federal zones.
- If you choose to take a street taxi, be aware that scams and overcharging are common. Avoid hailing taxis on the street, as many drivers don't speak English, making communication difficult.
- Pay in cash to avoid card scams. Carry pesos to avoid exchange rate issues.
- If you're heading to the city, make sure to use an authorized and licensed taxi service to avoid illegal cabs that may overcharge you.
Avoiding Pickpockets
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in crowded places and on public transportation, which are prime locations for pickpockets.
- Keep your valuables secure and out of sight. Don't flash jewelry or expensive items on the street, and avoid using electronic devices that can attract attention.
- When using a purse, keep it close to your body and in front of you. Avoid putting your bag on the floor or hanging it on the back of your chair in restaurants.
- Carry minimal cash and valuables with you. Leave the rest in a safe place, such as a hotel safe or a money belt under your clothes.
- Keep important documents, such as your passport and visa, in a safe place. Carry a color photocopy of your visa instead to avoid bureaucratic hassles if your bag is lost or stolen.
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Exploring the city: neighbourhoods and attractions
Mexico City is a sprawling metropolis with almost 2,000 neighbourhoods to explore. The best way to get to know the city is by visiting its notable neighbourhoods, including Polanco, La Condesa, Roma, Coyoacan, and Centro Historico.
Polanco
Nicknamed the Beverly Hills of Mexico City, Polanco is one of the most upscale neighbourhoods in the city. It is lined with designer boutiques, sleek apartment buildings, and art galleries. It borders Chapultepec, the city's largest park, which has a lake, a castle, and a zoo.
La Condesa
La Condesa is known for its art deco buildings, sidewalk cafes, street art, and leafy streets, giving it a hip, bohemian vibe. Parque México, a popular green space, features cascading fountains, small lakes, tropical gardens, sculptures, and an open-air forum that often showcases dance collectives, artisan vendors, and live music. The neighbourhood also has several bookstores, including Under The Volcano, a quirky English bookstore with a selection of used, classic, and obscure titles.
Roma
The Roma neighbourhood has a cool, art-focused atmosphere. It was home to the city's aristocracy over a century ago, and now its avenues are headquarters for artists and trendy restaurants. Calle Álvaro Obregón, one of its most popular streets, is dotted with taco stands, restaurants, clubs, and famous bars. Plaza Río de Janeiro and Plaza Luis Cabrera showcase a mixture of neo-classical and art nouveau buildings.
Coyoacan
Coyoacan is the oldest neighbourhood in Mexico City, known for its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. It is famously associated with the colourful homes of artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.
Centro Historico
El Centro is what locals call the historic centre of the city. It is home to numerous museums, street vendors, high-end restaurants, and famous hotels like the Gran Hotel Ciudad de México, known for its Tiffany stained-glass ceiling. Notable attractions include El Zócalo, the Palacio de Bellas Artes, and the Church of San Juan Bautista.
Other neighbourhoods
Juárez and Cuauhtémoc are located on either side of Reforma Avenue, offering a cosmopolitan environment that mixes city bustle with chill vibes. Juárez is home to Zona Rosa, Mexico City's gay district, and a growing Korean community with incredible eateries. Cuauhtémoc features Little Tokyo, with beautifully curated boutique hotels and delicious restaurants.
Attractions
Mexico City has several notable attractions that showcase its rich history and culture. Here are some places to visit:
- Chapultepec Castle: This 18th-century palace houses the National Museum of History and is located within Chapultepec Park.
- National Museum of Anthropology: A museum showcasing Mexico's rich history, including ancient textiles and the iconic Aztec calendar.
- Templo Mayor: Aztec ruins with an excellent accompanying museum that explains the legacy and mystery of these people.
- Metropolitan Cathedral: A cathedral dating back to 1737, located in the city centre.
- Palacio de Bellas Artes: A world-class museum housed in a beautiful building.
- Ancient sites and pyramids: Mexico City is home to several ancient sites and pyramids that offer a glimpse into Mexico's ancient civilisations.
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Frequently asked questions
The airport is just 8 miles (13 km) away from central Mexico City and accessible from the north and south by the Circuito Interior Highway. The Terminal Area Station is a short walk from the Yellow Line 5, and you can take the Metro subway to the city centre, which takes about 45 minutes one-way. Uber is also available from the airport and is the most convenient and affordable mode of transport when visiting the city centre. You can also take a taxi, but avoid doing so during rush hour (6:30 am to 9:30 am; 3 pm to 9 pm).
Benito Juarez and Felipe Ángeles International Airports offer a wide variety of dining options, from grab-and-go snacks to sit-down restaurants. For a quick bite, there are familiar brands like Starbucks, Krispy Kreme, and Subway. For a sit-down meal, try La Mansion in Terminal 1 or Casa Avila in Terminal 2.
If you have at least 8 hours between flights, it is possible to explore Mexico City. The Historic Centre district is a great place to start, with plenty of sights within walking distance, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, Templo Mayor, and Palacio de Bellas Artes. Other neighbourhoods to explore include Roma Norte, Coyoacán, San Miguel, and San Rafael.
