If you tell your friends and family that you’re going to Mexico City, the first thing most people will ask “Is Mexico City Safe?” While Mexico City has been enjoying a massive resurgence among travelers, Mexico and its capital has the reputation of being unsafe and while some areas of Mexico are unsafe the majority of cities in Mexico are extremely safe.
Do you know the facts when asking is Mexico City safe or are you just listening to sound bites from the media?
Over the past few decades, both Mexico and Mexico City has made headlines for crime and violence, but you shouldn’t allow the media’s over exaggeration of crime in Mexico City to overshadow the cultural, historical experiences and the local cuisine that Mexico City has to offer travelers.
Go ahead and pack your bags because Mexico City is one of the safest cities I’ve ever visited.
No matter the destination you are traveling to you must have be careful, have your wits about you while traveling, and use a little common sense so keep reading as help inform you on the following:
- Where you should avoid in Mexico City?
- Is it safe to visit Mexico City?
- Is Mexico City water safe?
- Is public transportation safe in Mexico City?
Is Mexico City Safe?
The U.S State Department released a Level 4 “do not travel” warnings on five Mexican states, and the entire country has a warning to “exercise increased caution.” Even though the U.S. State Department has issued a do not travel warning for certain parts of Mexico that has not stopped the influx of travelers especially those from the United States.
While many head to Cabo San Lucas, Cancun, and Tulum, Mexico’s capital — Mexico City is a major destination for travelers but fears about Mexico has lead many travelers to ask “Is it safe to visit Mexico City?” The answer is yes but here’s what you need to know to keep safe while traveling to Mexico.
UPDATE.- August 15, 2019:
“There are no restrictions on U.S. government employees for travel in Quintana Roo state, which includes tourist areas such as: Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya.”
Mexico Travel Advisory – Travel.State.Gov
This Mexico City travel guide is to help you navigate through Mexico City, advise you on what both the U.S. Government and Mexican Government is saying about whether Mexico is safe and how to stay safe in Mexico City in 2020.
MEXICO CITY TRAVEL ADVISORY FACT VS. FICTION
If you get up and go to the grocery store everyday, go running at your local park, or even go to a concert you should always take precautions no matter the destination.
Are you worried about traveling to Houston, Chicago, New Orleans or Memphis? All of these cities have a higher crime rate than Mexico City.
The Mexican Tourism authority and government wants you safe because tourism is Mexico’s number one revenue generator and they have pointed out the low crime numbers compared to the 28 million American tourists who travel to Mexico each year.
Know that Mexico City is safe and keep these numbers in mind when planning your vacation for 2020.
Mexico City is safer than four of America’s biggest and most popular cities. You take road trips with the family to cities like St. Louis, New Orleans and Kansas City without giving it a second thought so do not allow the media to make you believe Mexico is unsafe.
Mexico is no different than the U.S. so you just need to use common sense and be aware of which areas to avoid in Mexico City.
Let’s start with some basic facts. Mexico’s Level 2 travel advisory, issued by the U.S. State Department, is on par with France, Italy, the U.K, and Spain. The states that the U.S. State Department advises against visiting are likely not going to be on any traditional tourists radar :
- Colima state due to crime.
- Guerrero state due to crime.
- Michoacán state due to crime.
- Sinaloa state due to crime.
- Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping.
Mexico City is over 513 square miles and is divided into 1,700 colonias (neighborhoods) that spread out in all directions. These facts alone can make the city intimidating to first-time visitors.
However, it’s often the nation’s soaring murder and crime rates that have the biggest dampening impact on travelers thinking about visiting Mexico City.
Mexico City is a great destination whether you are traveling solo, with your family or a much needed vacation with the hubby.
As of 2019, cartels have been making greater inroads into the city, and violence has followed. That includes extortion of vendors in markets, revenge killings, and all sorts of terrors, according to reporting by Vice magazine.
What’s more? Vice reports that murder rates in the city for the first three months of 2019 are 35 percent higher than the same period in 2018 (which are higher than those in 2017).
By looking more broadly at the data, though, the murder rate for Mexico City — while increasing — is still lower than many major global and U.S. destinations. Chicago, New Orleans, Miami, and Philadelphia — all major tourist destinations within the U.S. — all had higher murder rates than Mexico City as of 2018 (which stands at 24 per 100,000 based on Mexico City’s own data).
Mexico Travel Advisory Levels
Safety on Public Transport In Mexico City
If you are worried about your safety on Mexico City’s myriad public transport options rest assured the public transportation is relatively safe and the bus routes which circulate through Mexico City’s most tourist-friendly zones are the safest so you don’t have anything to worry about on Mexico City’s public transportation.
To stay safe on public transport in Mexico City, the best thing to do is use the same common sense you’d use anywhere. Keep your jewelry to a minimum, don’t take out your valuables unless you really need to, and keep your backpack and purse zipped at all times.
Safety in Taxis and Private Cars In Mexico City
If the idea of taking a taxi in Mexico City scares the hell out of you it’s probably because you watched to many movies about express kidnappings. The likelihood that you will fall victim to an express kidnapping and you are whisked off and forced to withdraw all your money are slim to none.
To stay safe when using taxis and private cars in Mexico City you must follow a few rules. When looking for a taxi I suggest finding a taxi stand vs. flagging taxis on the street. Official taxis and drivers should have white license plates and their laminated license card displayed on the window.
However, if you’re nervous about using taxis, if it’s after dark, if you’re alone, or you don’t speak Spanish, just stick to ride-share apps like Uber.
Safety on the Streets In Mexico City
When you’re exploring Mexico City and snapping Instagram worthy photos of the street murals it’s very easy to let your guard down. While you may be in awe of the architecture and hanging in out in popular tourist neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, the historic center, and Coyoacán you must still be alert.
I suggest not wandering down sketchy looking alleyways, keep your bags zipped and locked, do not lay your electronics down and always look both ways when crossing the street to avoid being mown down by an errant pesero bus.
Women’s Safety In Mexico City
While most locals are friendly, there are some who still uphold the machismo attitude towards women. Solo women travelers may experience harassment as a result. Dressing modestly and low key (especially in rural locations) can help avoid unwanted attention.
Check with locals where are the safe places to go when in town and if you’re unsure about exploring by yourself, take a tour. It’s also a great way to meet other fellow travelers. Avoid traveling at night.
Food and Water Safety In Mexico City
Most definitions of safety omit food (and drink) safety. However, this isn’t something to be ignored in a city that’s renowned for its dining and street food scenes.
First and foremost, look for busy street food vendors. If it’s popular, there’s a reason and look for meats that are cooked fresh (rather than piled up waiting to be served) and watch to make sure vendors regularly wash their hands to prevent cross contamination of food.
When drinking, make sure beer bottles are opened in front of you and, I can’t stress this enough, DO NOT drink the Mexico City’s tap water.
Tips for Keeping Yourself Safe
As I stated above you must use common sense when traveling whether it’s to Mexico, Italy, Costa Rica, or Belize. My biggest piece of advice is to learn some Spanish so you will be able to communicate understand simple phrases.
Not only will this help you if you get pickpocketed but it will also help you move with a little more confidence through Mexico City.
Is It Safe in Mexico City?
I would like to tell you Mexico City is 100% safe but unfortunately there is crime no matter the destination so whenever I hear anyone say a particular destination is completely safe I’m little skeptical of anyone who gives a blanket statement because again there is crime everywhere.
With that being said my answer is yes “Mexico City is safe” if you take reasonable precautions to keep yourself safe, like leaving expensive jewelry at home, not flashing money around and maybe leaving those expensive electronics in your hotel when you go out at night.
Safety Tips For Traveling To Mexico City
No matter the destination it is a good idea to always follow these basic travel safety tips. Follow these tips while traveling to Mexico City:
- Steer clear of spots with a bad reputation, known gang activity or place that give you bad vibes. Stick to well-traveled places.
- Check in with friends and family back home as often as you can. Make sure someone knows where you’re at and when you expect to check in next.
- Be aware of your surroundings. This is a good rule of thumb in general, but it’s especially important when traveling alone.
- Don’t drink too much. Make sure you know your limits. Don’t put yourself in a vulnerable position.
- Only use ATM machines that are found at reputable local banks or those at your resort.
- Do not wear expensive jewelry or watches that might attract unwanted attention.
- Avoid taking excessive amounts of cash out and about with you.
- Use the Orbitz Visa credit card because it does not charge international fees so you will not have to walk around with cash.
Stick together with your travel companions rather than splitting up, especially when out at late at night. If you plan to drive, make it a point to travel during daylight hours.
Choosing to take a taxi at night is always a great idea, just to be on the safe side and know which areas to avoid in Mexico City.
Safest Areas For Tourist In Mexico City
If you do not go to crime ridden areas in your own city do not go into crime ridden areas when you travel. While the crime rate is increasing in Mexico so is the crime in the United States!
The Mexican government wants to keep tourist safe by providing extra security in touristy areas to ensure travelers are safe and you will not have to ask is if the Mexico City Travel Advisory is necessary.
Below are the safe areas of Mexico City:
- Roma: Young and hipster-fabulous – Hipsters rejoice—Roma is also home to a bustling third-wave coffee scene (check out Buna for an *excellent* cup of joe). To get a taste of all that Roma has to offer, from churros to coffee to craft beer, (oh my!) zip over to Mercado Roma. This fancy food hall has *everything*. Including a wonderful rooftop view.
- Condesa: Chill and authentic – Roma and Condesa are sister neighborhoods with a shared history, and their proximity puts them high on the list of places to visit in Mexico City. Like Roma, Condesa is flush with color, which makes this a gorgeous day trip or home base for visitors. Its wide, leafy boulevards also make Condesa feel far from the hustle and bustle of downtown (even though it’s only a few miles away).
- Polanco: Sleek and fun . – Polanco is filled with high-end shopping, fancy cocktail bars, and some of the world’s best restaurants. If you’re wondering where to eat in Mexico City, you might want to start in Polanco.
- Coyoacan: Artsy yet traditional – Coyoacan is the quiet artsy kid among Mexico City’s neighborhoods. It has a lot of the same attributes that make Roma and Condesa sparkle, but since it’s a bit further away it has a quieter, chiller vibe. Coyaocan’s biggest draw is the spectacular Museo de Frida Kahlo. Visitors can learn about her life and enjoy her art, from inside her “blue house.” You should definitely talk to a local about pre-booking tickets—this place is popular.
- Centro Historico: Glamorous and historical –Among the best things to see in this neighborhood are Palacio Nacional, where the president works, Zocalo Square, where all big national events or holidays are celebrated, Catedral Metropolitana, the city’s enormous historic cathedral, and the just-adjacent (and absolutely amazing) ruins of the ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlan. Centro Historico is pretty safe, especially during the day. At night, take care to not wander into some of the surrounding neighborhoods, which have dicier reputations.
Areas To Avoid In Mexico City
Now that we have discussed the safest areas in Mexico City for tourist here are a list of areas you should avoid when traveling to Mexico City or at a minimum be mindful of your surroundings:
- Tepito – Tepito, essentially the black market of Mexico City, is one of those places that has a dicey reputation for a reason. Situated just off the Centro Histórico, it’s most well-known for its vast tianguis (street markets). But if you’re looking for a bargain, go somewhere else – most goods in Tepito are low quality Chinese products or stolen.
- Ciudad Neza – Ciudad Nezahualcóyotl (more commonly referred to as Ciudad Neza), a vast urban sprawl that’s technically within the Mexico City metropolitan zone, is another area that isn’t worth visiting if you value your safety. Principally formed of residential buildings, it once laid claim to part of Mexico’s largest slum and is one of the capital’s poorest areas
- Tlalpan, Xochimilco and Tlatelolco – I’ve included these three under one entry as after dark they all become pretty dangerous and should be avoided. As a rule of thumb, avoid any very northern or very southern neighborhoods in Mexico City at night.
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Colonia Del Valle – Colonia del Valle is the zone with the highest rate of kidnappings in Mexico City; however, on the surface it’s absolutely safe to visit and has plenty of great spots that tourists would want to check out. Furthermore, its status as a kidnapping hotspot doesn’t make it automatically dangerous for a passing traveler, especially given that kidnapping is more of a danger for locals.
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Mexico City Travel Advisory Levels
ASSISTANCE FOR U.S. CITIZENS
Colonia Cuauhtemoc
Mexico, D.F., Mexico C.P.
06500
IF YOU DECIDE TO TRAVEL TO ANY PART OF MEXICO PLEASE FOLLOW THE RULES BELOW:
- Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
- Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
- Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
- Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Crime and Safety Reports for Mexico.
U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Safest Hotels In Mexico City
Best Hotels In Mexico City
Whether you're looking for an international brand-name hotel or a uniquely designed boutique hotel, Mexico City’s choice of accommodations is as eclectic as the city itself. From Polanco (a.k.a. the Beverly Hills of Mexico City) to hip La Roma to artsy La Condesa, each neighborhood has its own aesthetic. No matter which you choose, expect to find a home-away-from-home in this vibrant megalopolis.
Nima Local House Hotel - El mejor hotel boutique en la ciudad de México
Privacy and location are just two of the main draws at this four-room hotel in Mexico City's hipster-chic Roma neighborhood. Not only are you within walking distance of some of the city's best restaurants and bars, but the boutique vibes and cozy rooms guarantee the comforts of home while traveling abroad. Bonus points for the personalized service that remind you you're staying at a hotel and someone's there to help.
Nima Local House Hotel - El mejor hotel boutique en la ciudad de México
The St. Regis Mexico City
The St. Regis Mexico City is one of those luxury hotels that just gets that you're on vacation. The staff anticipates your needs and there's even butler service (mighty handy for packing/unpacking). The central location on Paseo de la Reforma is perfect for jetting from one tourist hotbed to the next. The towering building offers incredible views of this thriving metropolis. And the Yabu Pushelberg–designed rooms have the kind of soothing palette that guarantees relaxing vacay vibes.
The St. Regis Mexico City
The St. Regis Mexico City is one of those luxury hotels that just gets that you're on vacation. The staff anticipates your needs and there's even butler service (mighty handy for packing/unpacking). The central location on Paseo de la Reforma is perfect for jetting from one tourist hotbed to the next. The towering building offers incredible views of this thriving metropolis. And the Yabu Pushelberg–designed rooms have the kind of soothing palette that guarantees relaxing vacay vibes.
Luxury Hotel Mexico City | 5-Star Hotel | Four Seasons Mexico City
Even though it's set on busy Paseo de la Reforma, this name-brand luxury hotel delivers tranquil, boutique charms. Rooms are set around an interior courtyard, and you're just a short distance from Chapultepec Park, offering respite from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City. Add to that all the other Four Seasons hallmarks—insanely comfortable beds, high-quality of service, and wellness amenities like a pool, gym, and spa—and you're guaranteed a memorable experience.
Luxury Hotel Mexico City | 5-Star Hotel | Four Seasons Mexico City
Even though it's set on busy Paseo de la Reforma, this name-brand luxury hotel delivers tranquil, boutique charms. Rooms are set around an interior courtyard, and you're just a short distance from Chapultepec Park, offering respite from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City. Add to that all the other Four Seasons hallmarks—insanely comfortable beds, high-quality of service, and wellness amenities like a pool, gym, and spa—and you're guaranteed a memorable experience.
Hotel Hippodrome Official Web Page
Located on a quiet side street in La Condesa, Hippodrome Hotel is just a stone's throw from Spain Park and Mexico Park. Since the neighborhood is considered the epicenter of cool in Mexico City, you can pretty much call this the coolest of the cool hotels. It's perfect for trendy travelers who seek out design-centric accommodations and bespoke, attentive service. Order complimentary breakfast to the terrace of your room and take in the tranquil sounds of morning before a day of exploration.
Hotel Hippodrome Official Web Page
Located on a quiet side street in La Condesa, Hippodrome Hotel is just a stone's throw from Spain Park and Mexico Park. Since the neighborhood is considered the epicenter of cool in Mexico City, you can pretty much call this the coolest of the cool hotels. It's perfect for trendy travelers who seek out design-centric accommodations and bespoke, attentive service. Order complimentary breakfast to the terrace of your room and take in the tranquil sounds of morning before a day of exploration.
Busue A Boutique Experience Hotel Mexico City
Hacienda-style architecture (exposed wooden beams, teracotta tiles, wrought-iron accents) punctuates this 11-room hotel in Mexico City's exclusive Polanco neighborhood. Well-traveled guests love the impeccably designed rooms and the luxurious amenities. While room service is only available Wednesday through Saturday, it's a blessing in disguise: You can choose to order in from any of the neighborhood's phenomenal restaurants and the staff will collect the food and bring it to your room.
Busue A Boutique Experience Hotel Mexico City
Hacienda-style architecture (exposed wooden beams, teracotta tiles, wrought-iron accents) punctuates this 11-room hotel in Mexico City's exclusive Polanco neighborhood. Well-traveled guests love the impeccably designed rooms and the luxurious amenities. While room service is only available Wednesday through Saturday, it's a blessing in disguise: You can choose to order in from any of the neighborhood's phenomenal restaurants and the staff will collect the food and bring it to your room.
You might mistake this boutique hotel for just another colonial house on a tree-lined street in Roma. But that's by design: The hotel is laid out like a townhouse, with rooms divided between the first and second floors. Each one has contemporary interiors and Mesoamerican-inspired wall art, but the showstopper is La Terraza, where the bed literally slides out onto a private terrace, allowing you to sleep beneath the stars.
You might mistake this boutique hotel for just another colonial house on a tree-lined street in Roma. But that's by design: The hotel is laid out like a townhouse, with rooms divided between the first and second floors. Each one has contemporary interiors and Mesoamerican-inspired wall art, but the showstopper is La Terraza, where the bed literally slides out onto a private terrace, allowing you to sleep beneath the stars.
The Red Tree House
With its classic piano, comfortable sofas, and art-filled rooms, The Red Tree House is more like a good friend's home than a hotel. During nightly happy hour in the lounge, you're encouraged to cozy up by the wood-burning fireplace and mingle with other guests and the staff. The crowd is the perfect mix of young and old, business and pleasure, so don't be surprised if you meet someone you decide you want to explore the city with the next day.
The Red Tree House
With its classic piano, comfortable sofas, and art-filled rooms, The Red Tree House is more like a good friend's home than a hotel. During nightly happy hour in the lounge, you're encouraged to cozy up by the wood-burning fireplace and mingle with other guests and the staff. The crowd is the perfect mix of young and old, business and pleasure, so don't be surprised if you meet someone you decide you want to explore the city with the next day.
Stara Hamburgo - Hotel Juarez Mexico City
There are so many beautiful details to unpack when you walk through the door of this townhouse-style hotel, it's hard to know where to look first—the modern art that lines the walls or the intricately carved wooden reception desk? Then you head to your spacious room and realize you have a terrace with views of the garden. Wander to the spa, the gym, or one of three different restaurants, and you realize this place has so much more to offer than the standard boutique hotel.
Stara Hamburgo - Hotel Juarez Mexico City
There are so many beautiful details to unpack when you walk through the door of this townhouse-style hotel, it's hard to know where to look first—the modern art that lines the walls or the intricately carved wooden reception desk? Then you head to your spacious room and realize you have a terrace with views of the garden. Wander to the spa, the gym, or one of three different restaurants, and you realize this place has so much more to offer than the standard boutique hotel.
Zocalo Central
The location of this boutique hotel can't be beat: Step outside and you're in the heart of Zócalo, the city's main square. Technically, you don't even have to go anywhere to be part of the action—the rooftop restaurant, Balcón del Zócalo, has one of the best views of the square (and some a-plus margaritas and guacamole). After a day of crowded sightseeing, Hotel Zócalo Central is the perfect comfortable, tranquil retreat.
Zocalo Central
The location of this boutique hotel can't be beat: Step outside and you're in the heart of Zócalo, the city's main square. Technically, you don't even have to go anywhere to be part of the action—the rooftop restaurant, Balcón del Zócalo, has one of the best views of the square (and some a-plus margaritas and guacamole). After a day of crowded sightseeing, Hotel Zócalo Central is the perfect comfortable, tranquil retreat.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN MEXICO CITY
– Museo Nacional de Antropología
– Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe
– Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitucion)
– Explore a Colonial Town
BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO MEXICO
Because Mexico is a big country deciding when and where to travel totally depends on the weather and which area you are visiting.
Southern part Mexico has a rainy season which generally starts in May until October. Not to worry it only rains for a short period of time and sun will come right back out.
If you want to travel in the cooler season book your trip from December to February when it is cooler. I suggest traveling to Mexico is between December and April when the temperatures are more comfortable and the humidity is not at all an all-time high.
MEXICO CITY TRAVEL INSURANCE
I can’t say this enough but please get insurance when traveling to Mexico! Even if you are only going on a short trip, you should always travel with insurance. Have fun while visiting Mexico, but take it from someone who has racked up thousands of bucks on an insurance claim before, you need it.
Make sure to get your insurance before you head off on an adventure! I highly recommend Travelex Insurance.
The Conclusion of Mexico City Travel Warning
Yes, Mexico City is safe!
There is no doubt that there has been horrible violence in Mexico due to drug wars between warring factions but that violence has, for the most part, are in isolated areas. Of course there are certain areas to avoid in Mexico City but it is no different than you being in your own home town where crime is restricted to certain areas.
At the end of the day, Mexico City — particularly the parts of town where tourists go — simply doesn’t merit the fear that many travelers have. In fact, the data show that Mexico City is safer than many major tourist destinations in the U.S.
When you add an exchange rate that’s friendly to foreign visitors, cheap flights from most major U.S. cities, cultural destinations in spades, and street food that rivals the best cuisines of the world, you’d be missing out big time if you passed over a visit to Mexico City.
If you don’t go looking for trouble you won’t find trouble. I will say it again that many popular European destinations fall under the same travel warning but they do not have the same stigma that Mexico has when it comes to crime.
DO NOT allow the U.S. media to shape your thoughts and views of Mexico City because they are not only misleading but wrong! If you do not ask is Rome safe you should not in my opinion be asking is Mexico City safe.
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ADDITIONAL ARTICLES FOR EXPLORING MEXICO
Safest Cities In Mexico For Solo Female Travelers
Is Cancun Safe To Travel In 2020
Have you allowed the Mexico City travel advisory to affect your travel decisions and are you still wondering about the Mexico City Travel Warning and is it safe to travel to Mexico City?
I would love to hear your thoughts on is it safe to travel to Mexico City and how you feel about the Mexico travel warning so leave me a comment on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Are you traveling to Mexico City this winter? Leave a comment and let me know!
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