How to Get Cheap Taxis in Mexico City

How to Get Cheap Taxis in Mexico City

Just like in another foreign destination, getting around Mexico as a tourist can be overwhelming. With different forms of transport available, especially taxis everywhere, it can be challenging to figure out which one is the safest, the most efficient, and the most convenient. 

Image: A photo of a yellow taxi sitting in traffic alongside other cars.

Understand the Different Types of Taxis in Mexico

First things first, understand the different types of taxis available in the city. They include:

Street Taxis (Libre Taxis)

You will see these pink-and-white cabs everywhere in Mexico City. They are the most visible and seem convenient since you can simply wave one down on the street. However, they come with risks. While some drivers are honest, many street taxis are known for overcharging, refusing to use the meter, or taking longer routes, especially if they sense you are a tourist.

At night, safety becomes a more serious concern, as unregulated or unlicensed drivers sometimes operate under the same appearance. Unless you are familiar with the area and confident that the driver is using the meter properly, it is generally best to avoid flagging down street taxis altogether.

Radio Taxis (Sitio Taxis)

Radio taxis, also known as sitio taxis, offer a more secure alternative. These cabs are typically found at designated taxi ranks, usually outside malls, hotels, or busy public places, and can also be booked by phone through centralised dispatch services.

They are licensed, trackable, and usually more trustworthy than random street cabs. The downside is that they tend to cost more than street taxis, even for short distances. The price is often worth it, though, for the added safety, especially if you are unfamiliar with the city or travelling late at night.

Taxi Apps

Your best bet in Mexico City is to use taxi apps like Uber, DiDi, Cabify, or Beat. These services are not only the cheapest in most cases, but they also offer safety and transparency. You will know the price upfront, the car’s make and plate number, and you can track your route live with GPS.

Most drivers have ratings and reviews, adding another layer of security. Although surge pricing can kick in during peak hours or rainy days, the costs are still usually lower than traditional taxis. Best of all, payment is handled within the app, so there is no need to carry cash or negotiate fares with the driver.

So, which one is the Best and Cheapest Option

For the best balance of price, safety, and convenience, ride-hailing apps like Uber, DiDi, or Cabify are clear winners. For starters, you can see the price upfront before the ride even begins. Payments are cashless and secure through the app using a card or PayPal, and you can track your route in real time, share your trip details with friends or family, and always know where you are going.

This means you can avoid the “no meter” or “broken meter” trick that some drivers use to inflate the fare once you have already started the ride, avoid getting overcharged, and avoid fake or unlicensed taxis, which can be risky in so many ways.

In most cases, Uber and DiDi are also cheaper than street taxis and even many sitio (radio) taxis, especially for medium to long distances. If apps are not available or you don't have internet access or a smartphone, Sitio taxis may be a more reliable choice.