Mexico’s International Airport is located some 18 kilometers from Mexico City. Quite surprisingly the airport does not have direct shuttle from the airport to the city. Relax, there are still a few other ways to reach the city.

Taxi
Remember one thing for sure: Do not accept offers from taxi rides when you walk out of the airport. Never do this. Instead ask an official at the tourist information desk where to find the taxis or eventually ask them to call for one for you. Radio taxis are a little bit more expensive but they are safer and won’t use bootleg to charge you more. Between 10 pm and 5 am the price is usually 20% higher (night rate). Tipping is up to you and the accepted is from 5 to 20 pesos.
One of the recommended companies for taxi services is Taximex: call 9171-8888 or 5634-9912.

Apart from the price per kilometer, you can also negotiate your price with the taxi driver before getting into the taxi. The other way to pay is with a prepaid ticket. You can buy on of these from the tourist stand when you order the taxi.

Buses (and Trolleybuses)
The public buses will charge you 2 pesos which you should pay to the driver. It is better to have the exact amount because the drivers do not change money. Private buses charge 2.50 pesos for a trip up to 5 km long, 3 pesos for a trip from 5 to 12 km and 4 pesos for over 12 km. They also will charge you 20% extra if you travel after 8 pm.

The problem with the buses comes with the fact that there are no direct lines to the city. Instead you shoud change a few means of transport.

Rent-a-car
Before renting a car, first spend some time in the city. The traffic is true madness compared to the western standards or USA. Check your insurance, buy more insurance policies and then get in the car if you still believe that you can do it.

If you don’t know anyone to help you with the driving, better leave the map at the hotel or even at the airport and then just take a taxi. If you still feel that you can’t live without a car, here are a few:
Avis: 5588 8888
Budget: 5566 6800
Hertz: 5592 8343

Metro
Most people would say that the metro is the most dangerous means of transport in Mexico. They are right. The city still has serious problems fighting the crime, so if you’re heading underground, be prepared for some bad experience and most of all: keep your values and documents well hidden. Do not hang around with your suitcase wondering where to go because this way you become target and easy prey as if it’s written on your forehead that you’re ready to be fooled.

The metro costs 2 pesos and you can learn more about the lines and the stops on its official website www.metro.df.gob.mx.