Planning your next trip to Mexico? This massive country stretches over about 3,000 kilometres (1,864 miles) from north to south, and is home to many vibrant cities, including Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Puebla, Cancún and Tijuana. Here’s our guide to how to get to Mexico, with tips from our local travel experts.
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Mexico, with major airports in Mexico City, Cancún, Guadalajara, and Monterrey offering direct flights from across North and South America, Europe, and beyond.
If you're planning a trip to Mexico, driving from the US is another option, with well-traveled border crossings in Tijuana, Nogales, and Laredo — though be prepared for possible long waits at immigration. Cruise passengers can also arrive by sea, with ports in Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas welcoming ships from the US and beyond.
Cenote Ik Kil © Shutterstock
Mexico is well-connected internationally, with several major airports serving as gateways to the country. Some of the busiest airports in Mexico include:
You'll find flights from Aeroméxico, American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines, Interjet, British Airways and more.
The cheapest times to visit Mexico are typically during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to November, avoiding peak holidays and considering midweek travel. For more information, see our guide to the best time to go to Mexico.
Swimming with Whale Shark in Mexico © Shutterstock
From most places in North America, flying is the most convenient way to travel to Mexico. Major US cities have direct flights to various Mexican destinations. Airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, United, and Southwest offer frequent services.
Round-trip flights from the US to Mexico can range from $200 to $700, depending on the season and how early you book.
If you're located near the border, driving to Mexico can be a convenient option. Make sure to check the entry requirements and have the necessary documentation, such as a valid passport and vehicle insurance.
Taking your own car into Mexico will obviously give you a great deal more freedom, but it does come with some complications. Aside from border formalities, you’ll also have to contend with the state of the roads, the style of driving and the quality of the fuel. US and Canadian auto insurance policies don’t cover Mexico, so you will need to take out a Mexican policy.
Several cruise lines offer Mexico itineraries that include ports of call in Mexico. Many sail along the Pacific coast, most popularly between LA and Acapulco, stopping at Los Cabos, Mazatlán, Puerto Vallarta and Zihuatanejo.
Others ply the Caribbean side out of Miami, taking in Cozumel, Playa del Carmen and other Mexican destinations.
Tepoztlan magical town in Morelos, Mexico © Shutterstock
Direct flights are available from London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW) to Mexico City and Cancún. British Airways and Aeroméxico are the primary airlines offering these services.
While there may be fewer direct flights from Canada, you've still got options. Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are major hubs with flights to Mexico City, Cancún, and more. Airlines such as Air Canada, WestJet, and Aeroméxico provide these services.
Olas altas beach in Mazatlan, Mexico © Shutterstock
Many European airlines offer connecting flights from major cities like Paris, Madrid, and Frankfurt to Mexico's primary airports. Depending on your departure city, you may have layovers in European or North American hubs.
From Australia, your widest choice of airlines is out of Sydney. You’ll want to reach Mexico via connecting flights through hubs like Los Angeles, Dallas, or Houston. Flight durations vary from 20 to 30 hours, with round-trip fares starting from AUD 1,500.
From New Zealand, your choice is very similar: Air Canada via Vancouver, an American airline via LA or Auckland to LA with Air New Zealand, continuing with a Mexican or American airline. Total travel time ranges from 25 to 35 hours, with round-trip ticket prices typically starting from NZD 2,000.
If you're from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, or a country in the European Union, you don't need a visa for short tourist stays in Mexico, which are typically up to 180 days. Instead, you'll get a tourist card (Forma Migratoria Multiple) when you arrive, allowing you to enjoy your time in Mexico for the specified period.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Mexico