Mexico City Airport Guide – Benito Juárez (MEX) Terminal Tips

Time Saver: Book a pickup or hotel shuttle to the arrivals curb—this helps you sidestep taxi queues and gate confusion. If you prefer public transit, the metro is the budget-friendly choice, but keep in mind you’ll need a short transfer from the airport area and some extra travel time.

Terminal Layout for Travelers: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 each have separate check-in zones, but clear signs guide travelers toward security and gates. In both terminals you’ll find large food courts, reliable Wi-Fi, and easy access to baggage claim. The placement of escalators and seating areas helps you move efficiently, and staff can point you to the right airline counter if you need assistance. Your travel route depends on your arrival time.

Baggage and Reservations: Use self-check kiosks to reserve seats or lounge access; there are several great options in both terminals, including quiet zones near the gates. Keep essential items in a small bag next to your carry-on so you’re not searching during security, and take advantage of the large duty-free selection that opens early.

Getting Around After Landing: Rideshares and authorized taxis line up at the curb; many travelers rely on them for predictable pricing. From the Buenavista station, you can catch the metro to reach central Mexico City. The route passes the Zócalo area and other historic districts; plan for traffic, especially during peak hours, whether you’re traveling solo or with family.

Today’s Reality: Many travelers arrive with reservations in hand but still need to locate their vehicles or rideshare pickups. If you’re visiting Mexico City, consider a short stroll along the coastal-inspired cafés near Reforma before your next flight.

MEX Terminal 1: Check‑in, security lanes, and baggage drop

Arrive 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic ones at MEX Terminal 1. Use self-service kiosks to print boarding passes and bag tags, then head to baggage drop to minimize queuing. This smart and practical approach saves time and keeps you moving through the terminal; knowing what to expect helps you stay calm, and it’s doable even on busy days. This plan offers plenty of comfort for travelers.

Check-in and Bag Tagging
Here are three steps to speed up the process. Self-service kiosks line the central hall on Level 1, beneath the glass roof. If you have a card linked to your airline profile, you can pull up your booking in seconds and print a bag tag. If you need help, counters are staffed, but expect longer lines during busy hours. The advantage of kiosks is speed and flexibility; check-in is faster during off-peak times. After tagging your bag, place it on the conveyor belt and proceed to security.

Security Lanes
The security area is along the main corridor; expect long lines during peak and popular hours. Have your liquids packed in a single clear bag, remove laptops, and keep your passport and boarding pass handy. On busy weekday mornings, queues can be long; at other times, you’ll get through faster. If your airline offers a dedicated or expedited lane, you can use it; otherwise, standard lines apply. The area is lively—a bustling hub of people moving toward the gates. Stay steady and move with purpose. Before security, prep your items to speed things along.

Baggage Drop
After check-in, head to the baggage drop zone near the main hall. Staff will scan your bag tag and route bags onto the conveyors. If you’re traveling carry-on only, you can skip this step. For larger bags, arrive at least 60 minutes before international departures or 45 minutes before domestic flights to ensure your luggage makes it on board. If you’re traveling tomorrow, plan accordingly and allow extra time for possible queues. At the information desk, staff can point you to the correct baggage belt and answer questions. For today’s travelers, this path saves time and helps you reach your gate stress-free—with careful planning and a calm pace. This option is sure to help many travelers.

MEX Terminal 2: Check‑in, security lanes, and baggage drop

Arrive at Terminal 2 at least two hours before domestic departures and three hours before international flights. With your ticket in hand, head to your airline’s designated check-in zone and use the self-service kiosks to print boarding passes and attach luggage tags. From there, you can proceed to the luggage drop and check any bags you don’t want to carry through security. Signs are clearly posted in English and Spanish, and staff are available at every step to assist you. If you’re traveling with others, consider making a quick plan to split up and tackle different lines to save time—especially on Sundays, when crowds tend to grow. Have your information ready to keep queues moving smoothly, and you’ll breeze through this part of your trip with minimal stress.

Check‑in flow

Enter Terminal 2 and choose the counters or kiosks marked for your airline. The best option for speed is to use the self-check-in kiosks—use them if you have a ticket or e-ticket. Have your passport or ID, ticket, and any visas ready. At the counters, present your boarding pass and confirm your seat; if you’re traveling with others, you can coordinate with the agent to check in everyone’s documents in one go, saving you valuable minutes. If you need to keep certain items in your carry-on, be aware of restrictions and dispose of any prohibited items before you reach security to avoid delays. After check-in, in most cases you’ll proceed directly to the luggage drop or the security corridor, depending on where your airline directs you. Flight information and current queue lengths are displayed, so you can estimate how long the process will take.

Security lanes and baggage drop

There are three main security lanes at the Terminal 2 entrance: standard, priority for premium passengers, and a lane optimized for families with children; their frequency adjusts based on passenger volume. At security, present your boarding pass and ID, remove large electronics, and place your carry-ons on the conveyor belt. Use the bins to dispose of any prohibited items, and keep bulky items out of your pockets to speed up the process.

There is a dedicated baggage drop near the security area for checked luggage, and you can see the belt number on the screen before you proceed. If you’re arriving or departing by car, you can use the clearly marked drop-off and pick-up lanes at the curb, which include separate zones for taxis and ride-hailing services. These routes help you avoid unnecessary detours, allowing you to get through the drop-off area in just minutes.

Before moving on, make sure you have all essential documents and any additional information handy to share with staff if needed—this helps reduce back-and-forth and keeps things flowing smoothly. On Sundays, crowds can make lines longer, so try to arrive early and take advantage of faster lanes when available.

Interterminal Transfer: Walking routes and transfer times between T1 and T2

Take the Interterminal Connector as your first option between T1 and T2. This amazing, affordable walking route keeps you inside the airport, so you avoid external transport and extra fees. The path is airport-operated, well marked, and takes about 15 minutes at a comfortable pace—10 to 12 minutes for brisk walkers and up to 20 minutes if you’re traveling with heavy luggage or lots of bags. This route is well known by frequent travelers for its consistency and ease, making it ideal for next-day connections or quick transfers when timing is tight. See the details below to plan your transfer and to explore the two practical routes available along with their conditions.

• Route overview: Start at T1 in the central concourse, follow the Interterminal Transfer signs toward the connector, and walk the flat, covered corridor to T2. The distance is around 1.2 km, with clear floor signs and occasional seating along the way.
• Route options: Route A goes straight via the main Interterminal Connector corridor; Route B adds a short detour through a secondary concourse area to enjoy brighter lighting and additional rest spots. Both routes end in T2’s departures hall.
• Estimated times: About 12–18 minutes at a normal pace; 10–12 minutes if you move briskly; up to 20 minutes with family or lots of luggage (a lot of equipment).
• Practical notes: The walk works well even with big crowds, offers ample shade inside the connector, and is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Also, some wayfinding decals include Puebla area references to help with orientation.

What to expect on the interterminal walk

Signs clearly indicate “Interterminal Transfer” and guide you along a single, straight corridor. The atmosphere is well known for its predictable conditions: clean, well-lit, and staffed with helpful personnel if you need assistance. This method reduces transfer times and offers a stress-free experience—ideal for travelers who want to quickly see their options between T1 and T2. If you’re early, you might enjoy a calm journey with little wait; if you’re tight on time, move briskly and check the details on the signs to avoid hesitation. For a closer look at the route, keep an eye on nearby signs and the location markers near the Puebla area displayed on the floor maps.

Practical tips and timings

1. No ticket is required for this interterminal transfer; you stay within the airport’s internal transfer zone.
2. Remember to allow extra time in your planning (around 5–10 minutes more) if you’re traveling with kids or heavy bags; this helps you stay on schedule and prevents stress during your journey.
3. If you need assistance, Frida and Felipe at the information desks are known to help quickly with directions and signage; they can point you toward departures and well-known locations in each terminal.
4. During busy periods, be prepared for crowding near peak times; otherwise, the estimated travel time remains stable, and the route stays safe and very convenient for transferring.

Location details: Start at Terminal 1 central concourse, follow the Interterminal Transfer signage, and end in Terminal 2 departures or arrivals depending on your next gate. Conditions such as weather do not affect the covered connector; however, brief open-air segments may influence comfort if you take a short detour for photos. This well-known and widely used option offers an efficient and familiar experience for many travelers; watch for signs for directions and details, and don’t forget to plan for tomorrow or early the next morning depending on your schedule and plans.

Ground Transportation: Getting to the city, rideshares, and taxis

Official taxis and fixed rates

Take an official taxi from the airport’s fixed-rate desk to the city center; it’s the simplest and most predictable option with upfront pricing. At Terminals 1 and 2, follow signs to the Authorized Taxi counters; an agent assigns a driver and prints tickets with the exact fare. The desks—located near baggage claim—display the fare for each zone. Typical fares to the Centro Histórico range from MXN 250–320; to Polanco, MXN 320–420. Rates are zone-based and shown at the desk, not influenced by traffic conditions. You can pay with cash or card where accepted, and keep the ticket until you arrive.

If you’re heading directly to a specific destination, tell the desk your direction and address, and they’ll confirm the best route. For comparing fares across locations, data-destination-countrymexique helps align quotes; you can reserve a ticket or arrange a simple transfer. Your ticket is printed at pickup, and if you like, you can grab a quick dessert at a café on the way.

Rideshares and alternatives

Rideshare apps—maybe Uber, DiDi, Beat—offer curbside pickup at the arrivals area. Open the app, enter your destination (for example, Centro Histórico, Roma, or Condesa), and compare price estimates and ETAs. Typical prices to Centro Histórico range from MXN 180–300; to Polanco, MXN 260–450. Surge pricing may apply during busy times. Thanks to live tracking, you can see the car approaching and won’t worry about getting lost; if needed, you can re-route mid-trip. Always verify the car’s license plate and driver’s name in the app before getting in.

For a predictable option, book a private transfer through your hotel or a reputable agency. Tickets are often issued in advance and you can reserve for a fixed time. If you have a full day, you can ask the driver to stop at a few restaurants or interesting sites along the way. Interesting things to see en route include a quick dessert stop and views of grand avenues rich with history. Expect to pay about MXN 20–60 per person for a small snack, depending on the distance.

Carry a map and use the data-destination-countrymexique field to compare costs across sites and pick the best option. If you’re planning to visit Maya sites later, plan your route to minimize backtracking and keep your schedule simple and efficient. Thanks to the city’s impressive architecture and history, you’ll arrive ready to explore.

Food and Beverage: Best options and quick bites by terminal

Grab a burrito bowl at the quick-service counter in Terminal 1; it’s well priced and the cheapest option for a fast, filling start to your layover. Here’s a tip: the counter near Gate 12 makes it easy to grab and go, and the staff welcome you with a quick smile.

Terminal 1 keeps things simple: burrito bowls, tortas, empanadas, hot pastries, and a reliable coffee bar are all within reach. Near the central atrium, you’ll find a row of counters that serve quickly. The location is clearly signposted, and you can pay with cards or cash.

Terminal 2 offers similar speed with a coffee counter, fresh juices, quick tacos, and bowls for a light meal between flights. With the map app on your phone, you can navigate the concourses in seconds. If you need a printed menu, ask a staff member; they usually speak English and can help you choose.

Timing tips: The time between gates gives you roughly 12–18 minutes for a snack stop, longer if you queue for coffee, pastries, or a takeaway meal. The duration of a typical bite is short, so plan for long layovers if you want to sit down and relax a moment.

Other pointers: If you’re collecting bakery snacks for the plane, check the cheapest options first—look for the area marked “cheapest.” If you have a longer layover, you can plan a future trip to cenotes or book accommodation nearby, keeping location in mind for easy access. For a quick hop to outside-the-terminal options, taxis are available at designated ranks; ask at the information desk and you can make a quick plan to maximize your time, while staying comfortably close to your gate.

Amenities and Connectivity: Wi‑Fi, charging, lounges, and restrooms

Connect to the free MEX Wi-Fi within minutes of arrival and sign in with your phone to start browsing; this convenient network keeps travelers connected as you move between gates. Signs in English and Spanish with clear icons help you find outlets, restrooms, and lounges near waiting areas, and the system works throughout all airport zones. The basic session lasts sixty minutes; hour by hour, you can reconnect for additional time if needed. This simple setup is great for a variety of itineraries and offers peace of mind thanks to reliable connectivity. If you want to speed things up, take a moment to locate a charging station near your gate and keep your devices powered while you wait.

Wi‑Fi and charging basics

Des prises de courant sont disponibles dans la plupart des zones d'attente ; emportez une batterie externe compacte et utilisez des câbles USB-C ou USB-A pour maintenir vos appareils chargés pendant une escale. Dans les zones premium, vous trouverez davantage de prises et parfois une recharge rapide USB-C à proximité des tables. La méthode est simple : branchez, vérifiez le témoin de charge et reprenez vos activités en quelques minutes. La signalétique utilise des polices et des icônes claires, ce qui rend la connectivité pratique pour tous les voyageurs, avec des instructions en plusieurs langues. Le système vous permet d'ajouter du temps en ligne en quelques clics si vous avez besoin de plus de minutes.

Lounges, restrooms, and navigation

Les salons offrent un grand confort et des espaces plus calmes ; les options d'accès comprennent les laissez-passer d'une journée, les adhésions aux compagnies aériennes ou l'entrée payante aux salons, alors assurez-vous de comparer les options avant de partir. Des toilettes sont réparties dans les deux terminaux, avec des tables à langer dans les zones familiales et des installations sans contact dans les zones à forte fréquentation. Pour obtenir des indications, consultez le plan de l'aéroport ou demandez au personnel de l'aéroport ; si vous rencontrez un guide serviable comme Felipe, il peut vous indiquer la prise de courant ou les toilettes les plus proches. Pendant les heures de pointe, suivez les panneaux de service bleus et vous atteindrez votre porte d'embarquement avec quelques minutes de retard, tout en profitant des commodités qui rendent votre transit plus agréable.

Navigation Tips: Maps, signage, and help desks at MEX

Prenez une carte au bureau d'information près de la station Benito Juárez dès votre arrivée, puis utilisez une copie numérique du site web pour vous orienter rapidement.

Maps and signage at MEX

Utilisez la signalisation bilingue qui vous dirige vers les arrivées, les départs et les transferts. Les plans de la zone indiquent l'emplacement des terminaux 1 et 2, avec trois zones pour vous aider à planifier votre itinéraire. La meilleure pratique consiste à commencer au bureau d'information, à prendre une carte, puis à utiliser le site Web pour télécharger une copie hors ligne. Si votre vol arrive un jeudi ou pendant une journée avec des changements de porte, les écrans sont mis à jour toutes les quelques minutes. Pour les excursions à Tulum ou vers d'autres destinations, les cartes mettent en évidence la station la plus proche et le meilleur itinéraire pour les correspondances en train ou en metrobus. La signalisation mexicaine utilise souvent des zones à code couleur ; faites attention aux flèches claires indiquant le hall approprié. Conservez une copie imprimée dans votre poche, même si vous utilisez le site Web, afin d'avoir une sauvegarde lorsque vous n'avez pas de bagages ou que vous devez vous déplacer rapidement entre les terminaux. Pour les vols, suivez les indications vers le bon emplacement et lisez les flèches pour confirmer votre itinéraire.

Help desks and practical tips

En cas de doute, adressez-vous à un point d'information dans la zone des arrivées ou près de la sécurité. Le personnel bilingue peut vous imprimer un plan, vous expliquer la configuration des lieux ou vous envoyer des indications par e-mail. Demandez un plan de la zone de votre porte d'embarquement ; cela facilite la navigation sur un itinéraire précis. Si vous voyagez léger sans bagages, vous pouvez vous déplacer plus rapidement dans l'aérogare, mais gardez votre passeport et vos cartes d'embarquement à portée de main : les horaires et les changements de porte peuvent évoluer rapidement. Consultez le site web pour connaître les heures de départ actuelles et soyez prêt à changer de porte si nécessaire. Pour des destinations comme Tulum, un examen rapide de trois itinéraires (train, metrobus ou taxi) peut souvent vous faire gagner du temps et de l'argent.