Is Mexico City safe for tourists?

Yes, if you stick to tourist areas and use common sense. Avoid flashing expensive items, don't walk alone late at night, and use official transportation. Tourist police patrol main areas.

How bad is the altitude?

CDMX sits at 7,350 feet. You might feel tired or slightly breathless for 1-2 days. Drink extra water, avoid heavy alcohol the first day, and take it easy initially. Most people adjust quickly.

Can I drink the tap water?

No. Stick to bottled water, including for brushing teeth. Most hotels provide free bottles. Restaurants use filtered water for ice, but ask if you're concerned. Avoiding tap water prevents stomach issues.

Do I need to tip differently than the US?

Tip 10-15% at restaurants (service charge sometimes included), 10-20 pesos for hotel housekeeping, round up for taxi drivers. Tipping isn't as expected as in the US, but it's appreciated.

How to Plan a Trip to Mexico City

Plan 4-7 days minimum to see CDMX properly. Book flights 2-3 months ahead for best prices ($300-600 from US). Stay in Roma Norte, Condesa, or Centro Histórico. Get travel insurance and notify your bank before going.

Book your flight 2-3 months ahead. Fly into Mexico City International Airport (MEX). Direct flights from major US cities run $300-600. Avoid Friday departures and Sunday returns to save $100-200.
Pick your neighborhood and book accommodation. Stay in Roma Norte for nightlife and cafes ($40-80/night), Condesa for parks and restaurants ($50-90/night), or Centro Histórico for museums and culture ($25-60/night). Book 4-6 weeks ahead.
Get travel insurance and notify your bank. Buy travel insurance with medical coverage ($30-50 for a week). Call your bank to avoid card blocks. Download offline maps and translation apps before you go.
Plan your must-see spots. Block out full days for: Teotihuacán pyramids (day trip), Xochimilco floating gardens (half day), Centro Histórico museums (full day), and Coyoacán neighborhood (half day). Book Teotihuacán tour online.
Learn basic Spanish phrases. Memorize: 'Disculpe' (excuse me), '¿Cuánto cuesta?' (how much?), 'La cuenta, por favor' (check please), 'No hablo español' (I don't speak Spanish). Download Google Translate with camera feature.
Understand getting around. Use Uber (safe, cheap, everywhere) or Metro ($0.25/ride but avoid rush hour). Walk in Roma/Condesa. Never take unmarked taxis from the street. Airport to city center: official taxi $25 or Metro $2.

Is Mexico City safe for tourists?: Yes, if you stick to tourist areas and use common sense. Avoid flashing expensive items, don't walk alone late at night, and use official transportation. Tourist police patrol main areas.
How bad is the altitude?: CDMX sits at 7,350 feet. You might feel tired or slightly breathless for 1-2 days. Drink extra water, avoid heavy alcohol the first day, and take it easy initially. Most people adjust quickly.
Can I drink the tap water?: No. Stick to bottled water, including for brushing teeth. Most hotels provide free bottles. Restaurants use filtered water for ice, but ask if you're concerned. Avoiding tap water prevents stomach issues.
Do I need to tip differently than the US?: Tip 10-15% at restaurants (service charge sometimes included), 10-20 pesos for hotel housekeeping, round up for taxi drivers. Tipping isn't as expected as in the US, but it's appreciated.