MEX layover guide
Mexico City International. City centre is roughly 45 minutes away each way.
What to do by layover length
Under 4 hours: stay in the airport
- Use only authorized taxi booths or app rides from inside the terminal.
4 to 8 hours
Getting to Mexico City takes about 90 minutes round trip, so a city trip is tight. Consider staying airside or nearby.
8 hours or more: leave the airport
Metrobús Line 4 or authorized taxis to the historic centre, about 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.
Transit and visa basics
Many passports can visit Mexico visa-free; check yours. Official source. Also check your airline's connection rules and the official Mexico City International website.
Lounges
Lounge access depends on your airline, ticket class, or a membership. Search Priority Pass lounges at MEX, or check lounge listings on the airport's website.
Get Priority Pass lounge accessAffiliate linkStore your bags
Heading into Mexico City for a few hours? Drop your bags at a luggage storage spot.
Find luggage storage with Radical StorageAffiliate linkAirport transfer
Short on time? A pre-booked ride takes the guesswork out of getting to the city and back.
Book a transfer with KiwitaxiWelcome PickupsGetTransferAffiliate linkTours near Mexico City
Long layover? Short tours that fit your time:
GetYourGuide tours in Mexico CityViator tours in Mexico CityAffiliate linkAirport hotels
Hilton Mexico City Airport is connected to Terminal 1. For an overnight or a day room:
Hotels near MEX on Booking.comAffiliate linkDelayed or missed your connection?
Under EU and UK rules (EU261/UK261), delayed or cancelled flights can qualify for compensation.
Check your claim with AirHelpCompensairAffiliate linkStay connected
Airport Wi-Fi can be slow or time-limited. An eSIM gives you data the moment you land.
Get an eSIM from AiraloAffiliate linkLast checked: October 16, 2026. Times are typical and can change with traffic, construction and timetables. Confirm before you leave the airport. Some links are affiliate links; see our disclosure.