MEX — Mexico City — Taxi Fare Guide
Safety is the key point at Mexico City International Airport (AICM). Only taxis authorized by the transport authority may operate here, and you should buy your fixed-price ticket at an official taxi booth inside the terminal (in the arrivals walkway near the gates) before stepping outside. Never accept a ride from someone approaching you in the hall, as unauthorized taxi scams are a known risk.
Fares are set by zone, not by meter, so the price is fixed and prepaid based on your destination district. A trip to the Centro Histórico or nearby central neighborhoods typically costs about MX$250-300, while Roma/Condesa and Polanco run a little higher (roughly MX$280-350). Show the ticket to the dispatcher outside, who assigns you an authorized cab; the fare covers up to the stated number of passengers and luggage.
Authorized airport cabs are typically white with company markings and a windshield permit. Ridehailing apps such as Uber and DiDi are also permitted, with a designated pickup zone, and are often cheaper - but for first-time arrivals the prepaid authorized taxi is the simplest, safest option. Keep your destination address written down and have small-denomination pesos ready.
| Destination | Approx. fare | Time |
| Centro Histórico | MX$250-300 | 30-45 min |
| Roma / Condesa | MX$280-330 | 30-45 min |
| Polanco | MX$300-350 | 35-50 min |
| Santa Fe | MX$400-500 | 45-70 min |
Practical tips: Always prepay at the official booth, keep the receipt, and match your cab to the number on the ticket. Have your hotel address written in Spanish, carry cash in pesos, and allow extra time during Mexico City's heavy rush-hour traffic.
Other ways to the city
Benito Juarez International sits inside the city, so public transport options are genuinely useful if you are travelling light.
- Metrobus Line 4 (bus rapid transit): The best public option. It serves both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 and runs to the Centro Historico, San Lazaro and Buenavista. The airport fare is around 30 pesos and must be paid with a rechargeable Movilidad Integrada card, as cash is not accepted on board.
- Metro Line 5 (subway): Terminal Aerea station is a short walk from Terminal 1. At about 5 pesos it is extremely cheap, but large suitcases are officially restricted and the system is very crowded at peak times.
- Aerotren: A free automated link between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, limited to connecting passengers with a boarding pass and hand luggage.
- Inter-terminal bus: A paid public bus running between the two terminals for passengers who cannot use the Aerotren.
- Intercity coaches: Direct long-distance buses leave the airport for Puebla, Toluca, Queretaro, Pachuca and Cuernavaca, which is often faster than travelling via a city bus station.
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Fares are researched from official and public sources and are approximate — always confirm the meter or fixed fare before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
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How much is an authorised taxi to the city centre?
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