Price Range
$20 - $70/day
Destination
Mexico City, Mexico
While Mexico City itself is best navigated by metro, Uber, and walking, renting a car is ideal for day trips to nearby attractions like Teotihuacán, Puebla, Valle de Bravo, and the monarch butterfly sanctuaries.
When a Car Makes Sense
Don't rent a car for exploring Mexico City itself — traffic is legendary, parking is scarce, and public transport is excellent. Instead, rent for day trips or multi-day excursions outside the city. The highways connecting CDMX to nearby cities are modern and well-maintained.
Rental Options
All major international and local rental companies operate from the airport and various city locations. Rates start at $20-30/day for compact cars. For day trips, consider renting from a city location to avoid the airport surcharge.
Driving Tips
Mexico City has a "Hoy No Circula" (No Drive Day) program that restricts certain license plates on certain days to reduce pollution. Rental cars with foreign plates are exempt on weekdays but restricted on Saturdays. Check the current rules before your trip.
Driving Tips
- Only rent a car for trips outside the city — use metro and Uber within CDMX
- Avoid driving during rush hour (7-10 AM, 5-8 PM)
- Toll roads (autopistas) are worth the cost for safety and speed
- Keep small bills for toll booths — many don't accept cards
- Park in established parking lots (estacionamientos) rather than on the street