Travel Tips for Soccer Fans: Getting Around Mexico City

Getting around Mexico City means exploring a huge metropolis that’s absolutely packed with famous landmarks, fascinating neighborhoods, and of course, world-class soccer stadiums. With its population of over 9 million and a metro area covering 7,700 square kilometers, smart planning is an absolute must when it comes to traveling around this historic city.

Visitors have a range of options when it comes to traversing the Mexican capital, with choices for budget-conscious travelers, those with kids, and tourists hopping between the sights. So whether you’re looking for the most accessible neighborhoods or just seeking somewhere a little more tranquil, here are some fantastic tips for getting around Mexico City.

1. Metro and Metrobus

Economical and eco-friendly travel

Good for: Families, Couples, Adventure

The Metro and Metrobus systems provide some of the most affordable, eco-friendly, and efficient ways to travel around Mexico City. The Metro boasts one of the largest subway networks in North America, with over 190 km of track providing over 4 million daily rides. With 12 Metro lines and 7 Metrobus lines, these networks ensure you can reach most destinations across the city with ease.

The Metro speeds beneath the city’s traffic avoiding all the congestion, while the Metrobus offers rides to destinations not covered by the subway. You can buy a ticket or prepaid travel card that can be used on either network. Use apps such as Moovit or MetroMaps CDMX to help you find your way.

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2. Ride-sharing

A reliable and secure alternative to street taxis

Good for: Families, Couples

Ride-sharing is a popular way to get across Mexico City, especially for shopping trips, late-night travel, or reaching destinations not covered by public transit. It’s a safer and more reliable option than using a street taxi, and you can use services such as Uber or Didi. Just download the app to get started.

If you’re ride-sharing to the Azteca Stadium, be sure to set your destination at least a block away from the exits to avoid congestion. Ride-sharing is an especially great option for families traveling with kids in tow. Just be on the lookout for surge pricing, as costs will go up at peak times.

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3. Planning for game day traffic

Smart ways to beat the crowds

Good for: Photo, Families, Couples

Planning for game day traffic is essential, as match days can lead to heavy congestion with spectators flocking to the Azteca Stadium from around the world. Make sure you’re not held up by the crowds by arriving two to three hours ahead of time, which will also allow you to take in all the pre-game excitement. Parking at the stadium opens four hours before the big event.

Google Maps can offer traffic and transit information in real time, including any potential congestion or delays. Ride-sharing and public transport apps will also keep you up-to-date with current conditions. The energy of the crowd can be magical, so arrive early to experience the best of it without the rush.

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4. Stay near a metro line

City-wide access by train

Good for: Families, Couples

Sticking to hotels and accommodations that are within easy reach of a metro line will make your stay so much easier. Mexico City is known for traffic, so the ability to speed beneath the streets puts you at an advantage when visiting landmarks, going somewhere to eat, or heading out for some soccer action.

Lines 1, 2, 3, 8, and 9 are especially recommended for visitors to the city, as they provide the best routes toward stadiums and tourist areas. Neighborhoods like Condesa, Roma, and Coyoacán feature family-friendly and walkable urban avenues with easy access to the Metro. Try and plan your trips outside of the rush hours to avoid commuter crowds, and be aware that services end around midnight.

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5. Hop-on-hop-off buses for sightseeing

Tours to suit your schedule

Good for: Photo, History, Families

For first-time visitors, there are few better ways to see the city than a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus. These tours offer a huge amount of flexibility when it comes to traveling around various landmarks, allowing you to grab a bite to eat or sip a coffee whenever you feel like a break.

Mexico City has two main sightseeing bus services, Capital Bus and Turibus. Capital Bus has three regular routes, with tickets available online that can be exchanged for a bracelet that allows you to hop on and off throughout the day. Turibus has four circuits, and even arranges seasonal themed tours. Hop on one of these buses, and see fantastic sights like the Frida Kahlo Museum, Zócalo, and Chapultepec.

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6. Walk when possible

A healthy way to discover new favorites

Good for: Photo, History

When choosing your hotel, it’s a smart move to pick somewhere that’s within walking distance of the sights you’d like to see and always walk when possible. It’s a cheap, convenient, and healthy option where you don’t have to worry about ride-shares and train schedules. What’s more, traveling on foot means you’ll discover sights you may have missed when speeding between destinations.

The Centro Histórico is an especially great place for walking, as its streets are full of stores and restaurants packed between the famous sights. The leafy avenues of Polanco are also lovely to walk around. To add a little extra flavor, try taking a self-guided walking tour and learn even more about this fascinating city.

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7. Driving in Mexico City

Freedom few other options can offer

Good for: Adventure, Photo

Driving in Mexico City gives you more freedom than other forms of transport, but it also comes with its own safety responsibilities. First of all, you need to learn the local road rules and conventions before your trip. Next, plan your routes well and stick to toll roads, especially at night. When stopped in traffic, it’s recommended that you keep your windows closed.

Mexico City also has the “Hoy No Circula” law, which restricts driving on certain days. This can even include rental cars, so check your registration number ahead of time to see which days you can drive. Driving to a game can be very convenient; just look for designated parking zones and arrive early to secure a spot.

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8. Family-friendly transport

Tips for traveling with kids

Good for: Families, Adventure

Traveling with children adds its own considerations, and thankfully Mexico City offers plenty of family-friendly options. Children under five can often ride for free on the Metro, while those under twelve pay a reduced fare. There have also been increasing efforts to make stations accessible, and many can be navigated with strollers. Be sure to check ahead to see if this includes your destination.

Simplify your day by purchasing a tourist pass so you don’t need to buy individual tickets every time you travel. It’s best to avoid the rush hours and to pack snacks and drinks for longer journeys. Kids will find this a charming city, so just follow these tips and enjoy your stay.

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This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.