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Mexico City is known for its vibrant culture with bright colors, loud music, and welcoming people. But what is the one thing that really draws people to Mexico? The food, of course! Mexico has amazing cuisine, and the king of it all is the taco.
We’ve visited Mexico many times and even lived here, which means we’ve eaten our fair share of tacos, and it never gets old – they are THAT good! Although you’ll find great tacos everywhere, Mexico City is the best place to try a wide variety.
And if you’re craving tacos, I highly recommend a food tour. Trust me, local guides know where to find the best tacos! Not only will you enjoy delicious cuisine, you’ll dive into the local history and culture through the food! It truly is one of the best tours in Mexico City and my favorite way to experience a city.
But before you book a taco tour, there are some things you should know. To help you out, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to taco tours in Mexico City – so keep reading. By the end of this, your stomach will be growling and you’ll be ready to book!
- Our TOP PICK for a Taco Tour in Mexico City
- 1. History of tacos in Mexico
- 2. What are the most popular tacos in Mexico City?
- 3. Is it safe to eat street tacos in Mexico City?
- 4. What did we think of our taco tours in Mexico City?
- 5. What are the best taco tours in Mexico City?
- 6. What should you bring on a taco tour in Mexico City?
- 7. Is it safe to do a taco tour in Mexico City?
- 8. Are taco tours suitable for those who don't like spicy food?
- 9. Are there meat-free options for vegans or vegetarians?
- 10. Is a taco tour in Mexico City worth it?
- Other Activities to do While in Mexico City
- Where to Stay in Mexico City
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Mexico
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Our TOP PICK for a Taco Tour in Mexico City
If you’re looking to book a taco tour right now, you can’t go wrong with this authentic taco tour in La Roma. It’s a small group and you’ll spend three hours swooning over the colonial-style architecture in this gorgeous neighborhood while sampling delicious tacos. Our guide took us to five different local spots including some that have been featured on Netflix! All the tacos, two drinks, and a fantastic guide are included in the $63 USD price when you book online!
1. History of tacos in Mexico
There are many theories about the origin of tacos. The modern tacos we know and love today are likely from 18th-century silver mining towns in Mexico. At that time, the word “taco” referred to the dynamite used to excavate the ore.
For lunch, the miners would bring meat rolled in corn tortillas (think more of a rolled taquito rather than a traditionally folded taco). If you can picture a stick of dynamite (called a taco), it kinda looks like their rolled taco! These were dubbed “tacos de minero” or “miners tacos”. The name stuck and eventually evolved to be the delicious dish we know today.
Historically, taquerias have been part of Mexico’s culture even before the 18th-century silver miners. They were usually centralized in working-class neighborhoods. With the rise of industrialization, people immigrated to the cities for work, bringing taquerias with them. This also brought flavors, recipes, and age-old customs from all over Mexico and ultimately gave us the delicious Mexican cuisine we enjoy today.
One of my favorite parts about Mexico is that food is at the center of culture. Every neighborhood has multiple taco stands, and people leave their houses to enjoy food together all the time! You’ll also have families with taco recipes passed down for generations. They learn the art of cooking and share that piece of their family history with each taco they serve.
Truthfully, eating tacos and other local cuisine is one of the best things to do in Mexico! You’ll get a beautiful window into their culture along with a delicious meal. What could be better than that?
Related Read: If you’re visiting the Yucatan Peninsula, you’ll also want to eat at the best restaurants in Cancun!
2. What are the most popular tacos in Mexico City?
If you aren’t familiar with Spanish, it might be a little daunting to order your first tacos. They quickly ask you what you want, and if you don’t answer fast enough, they move on to the next person.
So to help you out, we’re giving you a quick rundown of the most popular tacos in Mexico. This way, you can be prepared to order – and dazzle them with your Spanish skills!
Tacos al pastor
This might be my favorite taco, mostly because watching how they cook this type of meat is seriously impressive!
Tacos al pastor are simply pork tacos. However, you’ll see a skewer of pastor about 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide (90 cm tall and 60 cm wide) rotating over an open flame. This marinated pork is prepared in the morning, then layered onto the skewer and roasted over the open flame for hours.
As you order, they will take a big knife and shave off enough to fill your tacos. The meat is juicy and flavorful. This type of taco is also originally from Mexico City and Puebla, so it’s neat to try it in its hometown.
Seafood tacos
Mexico has nearly 7,000 miles (11,265 km) of coastline, so that means there is plenty of fresh seafood almost anywhere you go!
Mexico City is home to the largest fish market in the world, La Viga Fish Market. This one market handles about 60% of Mexico’s seafood sales, crazy! While you’re visiting Mexico City, this is definitely the best place to get seafood tacos. Fish and shrimp tacos are the most popular, but there are other variations you can find for something more adventurous!
Tacos de guisados
On nearly every corner, I saw signs for tacos de guisados and had no idea what they were! Each sign had multiple meats listed in the “guisado” category. Only after taking the risk to try them out (okay, not much of a risk because they were delicious) did I learn that this meat is a type of stew.
With big pots on open flames, you can smell all the flavors simmering together. Tacos de guisados are unique because there usually isn’t just one type of meat in the stew. They will add all sorts of other flavors into the mix, so each taco stand is truly different! If your taco isn’t dripping down your arm by the end of tacos de guisados, you’re doing it wrong.
Tacos barbacoa
Tacos barbacoa are another juicy, slow-roasted type of taco. Barbacoa-style tacos are made of large cuts of tougher meat, but slow roasting makes them tender and flavorful. You’ll typically see barbacoa as beef, but the word “barbacoa” refers to the cooking style, so it could also be goat or lamb as well. These are definitely rich in flavor and perfect with some onions, cilantro, and red salsa on top!
Suadero tacos
Suadero tacos are a type of beef taco cooked in a pot called “Comal de Bola”. This pot is used to slow-cook the meat, making them extra juicy and flavorful. There is a griddle in the middle of the pot that warms the tortillas, making all the flavors meld together. I didn’t see these tacos at every place we went to, so when you find them, you must give them a try!
Carne asada tacos
The most classic taco out there, carne asada tacos are made out of beef! The beef is thinly sliced and marinated in a specific concoction of flavors, then grilled on a hot flame. Whenever I don’t know what to order, carne asada tacos are my default because they rarely disappoint!
Vegan tacos
There aren’t many vegan options in Mexico, as most traditional dishes revolve around grilled meat, cheese, or animal fats. However, they are growing in popularity, especially in Mexico City!
Vegan tacos are usually made out of cactus and onion. When grilled together with traditional spices, they are simply outstanding. There are a lot of taco stands that might use protein substitutes, like imitation meat or some sort of fruit alternative. It’s awesome to see the authentic flavors being combined with vegan ingredients so all can enjoy!
Related Read: After exploring Mexico City, you might be craving some beach time! If that sounds like you, read about our favorite beaches in Mexico here.
3. Is it safe to eat street tacos in Mexico City?
Yes, it is totally safe to eat street tacos in Mexico City!
Safety in Mexico is an important concern, and of course, that extends to food! Luckily, food safety standards are high all around Mexico. As quickly as they make and sell street tacos, there really isn’t an opportunity for the food to go bad.
However, I would highly recommend bringing hand sanitizer. If you’re exploring the city and touching everything, then go to eat with your hands, that’s when you might get sick! But most people would say that eating street food in Mexico is even safer than eating in a restaurant.
4. What did we think of our taco tours in Mexico City?
Mexico City is full of awesome tours – and we absolutely loved our taco tours here. I always enjoy learning about a place through food because it brings people together and lets you learn about their culture. Taking a food tour is a great way to learn about the city and the local cuisine – and find the best spots to return to!
We did two taco tours in Mexico City, one downtown and the other in La Roma. Between the two, we had so many restaurants to go back to. Truthfully, we couldn’t fit them all in!
But my favorite part is that these tours take you to local spots. You get to know the friendly locals and really see what life in Mexico City is like.
Related Read: If you’re visiting Mexico City in early November, read all about celebrating the Day of the Dead!
5. What are the best taco tours in Mexico City?
La Roma Authentic Taco Tour
La Roma is a beautiful part of Mexico City, brimming with history and culture. This taco tour is a reflection of the neighborhood, showing the unique culture through its food! This is an evening tour, giving you a completely different look at Mexico City’s colonial neighborhood.
We partook in a taco tour in La Roma and absolutely fell in love with this part of the city! The food scene is booming, and I was swooned by the colonial-style architecture. If you’re both a foodie and a photographer, this is the tour for you!
You will meet at Taqueria Orinoco at 5 pm and jump right into the taco tasting. Overall, this 2.5-hour taco tour will include five different dishes, so it’s best to come hungry! It also includes two beverages (one alcoholic and one non-alcoholic).
Your guide will take you to the best taco spots and include stories about the food and people that make each spot unique. Some of these spots have even been featured on Netflix shows! I love how they really make the experience come alive. You’re not just eating delicious food but really getting a feel for the neighborhood.
This tour is relatively small, with only 10 travelers. Unfortunately, there are no vegan/vegetarian options provided, but they can accommodate food sensitivities! This tour is also family-friendly, so if you have some food-adventurous kiddos, this would be a fun way to explore the city. It costs $63 USD for adults and $48 USD for kids.
Are you ready to stroll through La Roma while feasting on tacos? Pick a date and book your tour here!
The Street Food Experience
Do you love trying all the street food when traveling? Well, on this private tour, your guide will take you to the best street food spots in Mexico City Centro. It’s a great option for solo travelers or small groups who want to immerse themselves in the heritage and history that makes up these dishes. Plus, you’ll enjoy mezcal tastings at the end!
I love that this is a private tour, but still very affordable. You’ll get your guide all to yourself – and these guides are super friendly and know the neighborhood like the back of their hand. They’ll share many legends, traditions, and fun facts about the locations and foods you encounter.
This 3-hour tour starts at 1 pm, so skip lunch and come hungry! You’ll meet at the Palacio de Bellas Artes to begin the tour. Your guide will lead you to four different restaurants where you will venture away from the all-taco diet (but don’t worry, you’ll still try a taco or two!). But you’ll also have the chance to try more traditional dishes with ingredients inspired by the Aztecs, such as tlacoyo or ceviche tostadas.
You’ll finish off the experience with three mezcal tastings, which is essential to get the full Mexico City experience. And the final mezcal is really a treat. Made from a 25-year-old agave, tepeztate is a specialty mezcal that you don’t come across every day.
This private tour costs just $40-$57 USD per person and can accommodate 1-4 people. It includes all the food, alcohol, and water.
If you want a personalized experience on a budget, don’t hesitate to book this private tour online here!
A Taste of Mexico City: Private Tour
We love a private tour, especially with food, so you can get more to yourself! And what I also enjoy about this Taste of Mexico City tour is that you’ll get to explore the Narvarte neighborhood. It’s always great to check out another part of the city and, of course, indulge in more classic Mexican dishes!
What makes this tour unique is what you’ll see along the way, in addition to the food. Your private group will be led by the local guide through the up-and-coming Narvarte district. It’s a nice excuse to learn about this area and get a broader perspective of Mexico City as a whole.
The 2.5-hour tour starts with a trip to the Museo del Azucar (the sugar museum) for some agua fresca (a super light drink made with fresh fruit). You’ll continue on to three restaurants, tasting quesadillas, seafood tacos, and a family-owned taco stand.
Finally, you’ll try the famous al pastor taco near Centro de Desarrollo Musical, a music school. You’ll hear lots of music as you feast on tacos for an authentic Mexican experience. The tour will end with a fluffy traditional pastry from a local bakery!
This tour is awesome because you get to experience more than just the food. It’s a walking tour with tasty bites at each stop. Your guide will tell you all about the area and each location so you really get a feel for the neighborhood as you go.
This tour costs between $45-$122 USD depending on your group size (6 people max). Tours can leave anytime between 12-4 pm, so it’s easy to fit into your schedule. However, they do sell out fast! So grab your friends and book this private food tour online here!
Narvarte At Night: Tacos, Chelas, and Mezcal
Mexico City comes alive at night! This is when the locals will be out cooking delicious foods and playing loud music. Trust me, it’s a totally different feel than during the day! And if you want to experience these authentic vibes, I recommend this Navarte at Night food tour.
This evening tour takes you to this less-touristy area of the city to taste some tacos, chelas, and mezcal. You really get a bit of everything – food, drinks, and culture combined!
You’ll meet your guide outside the first restaurant at 7 pm. Arrive hungry because you’ll dive right into some tacos as you learn all about the cuisine. I love that this tour starts with volcanes, crispy tortillas toasted over a grill and topped with melted cheese and peppers.
On this tour, you’ll get quite the variety – starting with tacos from both a taqueria and a street vendor. To quench that thirst, you’ll enjoy chela (cold beer) from a traditional cantina. And last but not least, you’ll finish up with a mezcal tasting at a cozy neighborhood restaurant. You’ll have a private tasting including four artisanal mezcals, appetizers, and a yummy dessert.
We love that this tour is in a non-touristy neighborhood, so you can really see the local spots! The guides do a great job of giving information but also making it a fun experience.
This 3.5-hour tour includes as much food as you can eat, beer at the cantina, filtered water, and all your mezcal tastings for $135 USD. By the end, you’ll have a full belly and a big smile!
If you want to experience the local nightlife (along with loads of food and drinks), this is the tour for you! But I recommend securing your date online before it sells out!
Taco Night Private Food Tour in Mexico City
This private taco tour is the most inclusive option on the list! I like that you can tailor it exactly how you want it. Taste food and drinks at all the places you’re dying to visit or ask your guide for suggestions. And since transportation is covered, you can hit up multiple neighborhoods in Mexico City.
It feels like a city and food tour combined. Your guide will take you through the colorful neighborhoods, telling you all about the sights you’re passing. You’ll make several stops along the way for food and drink.
The highlight of this tour is the tacos, of course, but it also focuses on pairing mezcal or locally-made craft beer with the dishes. With each variety of taco, you might have a completely different experience! The guides will also throw in surprise dishes based on the season and location. Who knows … you might find a new favorite dish you never knew existed!
This private tour is also super convenient. Tours start around 7:30 pm, lasting approximately 4 hours. It includes round-trip transport from wherever you’re staying in Mexico City. So no need to worry about any logistics – just bring your appetite and have fun!
The guides are always excited to share their love for Mexican food and drink, making this a super fun tour! It includes all food, drinks, transportation, and your local guide for $90-$190 USD per person. You can have 2-12 people, and everyone must be at least 18 years old. So grab your friends and family for a memorable, food-filled night!
So if you want a private tour of the city with delicious food, this option is for you! Check availability and book it online here.
Bike to Taste the World’s Best Tacos
While in Mexico, you’ll be doing plenty of eating, so it might be nice to get some movement in as well! This biking taco tour is a fun way to experience Mexico City. Plus, if you’re exercising while on a taco tour, you can eat more tacos … right?
This tour begins and ends in La Roma neighborhood, where you’ll meet your guide and get your bike and helmet! Your guide will lead your small tour group through the city, stopping at the best taquerias along the way.
One of the great parts about biking through the city is that you get to see more than just walking! And since it’s a lunchtime tour, it’s the perfect way to build up an appetite and enjoy being outdoors.
Your tour will make stops at multiple taco stands so you can try Baja shrimp tacos, carnitas tacos, and even duck tacos (a Mexico City specialty). Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to try mezcal and craft beer to refresh after all that bike riding!
This tour includes all your food and drink, the bicycle and helmet, and your guide for $74 USD. The whole thing lasts about 3-3.5 hours, which feels like the perfect amount of time. And they make just enough stops so you never get too tired while cycling.
We love that this is an out-of-the-norm experience and a fun way to experience the city! So if you’re ready to cycle and try tons of tacos, reserve your date online here!
3-Hour Night Tacos and Mezcal Crawl
Tacos, a beautiful neighborhood, and mezcal – what more of an authentic Mexico City experience could you ask for? And luckily, this 3-hour Taco and Mezcal Crawl has it all!
One of my favorite parts (besides the tacos of course!) is that this is a small tour of up to 10 fellow foodies. It’s the perfect size because you have a chance to get to know the whole group and enjoy the experience together!
You’ll join your group at 6:30 pm at the meeting point in the beautiful La Roma neighborhood. This is the hipster heart of the city and the perfect place to embark on a food extravaganza.
From here, your 3-hour tour will take you to multiple taco spots. At each stop, the guide will give a history of the area, the food, and cultural influences. You will also have mezcal tastings at each location! The pairing really ties the whole experience together.
This is also a great way to see this historic neighborhood with impressive architecture. Make sure to wear comfy shoes as you hop from place to place, taking in the area’s ambiance as you go. And since you finish around 9:30 pm, you can always grab another drink with your new friends in the neighborhood!
All of your food and drink and the friendly guide are included in the $73 USD price. Keep in mind that there are no vegetarian options available. It is open to anyone 18 and up, as the mezcal is included in the price!
This food and drink experience is popular for a reason – and sells out fast! There are only limited dates available, so check availability and book your tour online here!
Related Read: If you’re traveling around Mexico and craving tacos again, there are fantastic taco tours in Cancun too!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. What should you bring on a taco tour in Mexico City?
There really isn’t much you need to bring on a taco tour in Mexico City! The most important thing is an empty stomach, as you’ll want to eat as many tacos as you can. I recommend that you bring hand sanitizer and suitable footwear, as you’ll be going all around the city. You’ll also want to bring a camera to take some photos of all your tacos!
7. Is it safe to do a taco tour in Mexico City?
Yes, taking a tour is one of the safest ways to experience Mexico City! The guides are local, know their surroundings well, and will take you to only the safest areas of the city. This is their job, and they want you to have a positive experience – they’ll do whatever they can to ensure you’re safe and having fun.
Plus, taking a tour is a great way for you to learn about the safe areas of the city. Make sure to look out for spots you want to return to later!
Related Read: All the tours we recommend are safe options. So if you’re also traveling to the coast, check out the best tours of the Yucatan Peninsula.
8. Are taco tours suitable for those who don’t like spicy food?
Yes! A lot of Mexican food gets its spice from salsa, which you can add on your own. Most of the food is simply marinated and cooked in rich flavors, not necessarily spice. Your guide can suggest better options if something might be too spicy. Bailey does not like spicy food, so this is something we wanted to know too!
If you like spice and want to really blend in with the locals, ask for the spiciest salsa they have! You’ll be sure to get a lot of laughs as you sweat from the heat.
9. Are there meat-free options for vegans or vegetarians?
Yes, there are meat-free options at some places, but it isn’t super common. Most tacos and traditional Mexican dishes have meat included … it’s just very much part of their culture.
Many of the tours mentioned in this blog do not include vegetarian or vegan options. If you’re uncertain, make sure to ask the tour operator ahead of time! However, to be sure, there are some tours that are specifically meat-free.
The best vegan taco tour
This three-hour tour takes you to the best vegan taco spots in Mexico City! It includes six different taquerias, so come hungry.
This tour explores La Roma, which is definitely the trendy part of Mexico City. You’ll start at Cintli Tortillería, a local spot that makes fresh tortillas in-house. You’ll walk from place to place, learning about the area and stopping to try tacos. You’ll end 3 hours later at the Plaza de Romita with a full belly and a feel for the neighborhood.
As you sample tasty tacos, there’s no need to worry about the ingredients – they’re all vegan! You can sit back and savor each scrumptious bite. And as you do, the guide and chefs share where each type of taco comes from and how it’s made. The vibrant colors and flavors of Mexico will really come alive in these delicious vegan tacos.
Just because you don’t meat doesn’t mean you need to miss out! This tour starts in the afternoon or early evening and costs $67 USD per person. So if you’re ready to try the city’s best vegan tacos, book this tour online here!
10. Is a taco tour in Mexico City worth it?
Yes, a taco tour in Mexico City is 100% worth it! In fact, it’s one of the top activities we recommend in our guide to spending three days in Mexico City.
Food is essential to Mexican culture, and I truly believe it brings people together. What better way to learn about the city and its customs than sharing a taco (or two or three) with new friends?
These tours also give you a chance to explore the city and discover local dining spots (which tourists often miss out on). It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Mexico City and eat some of the world’s best tacos along the way!
Other Activities to do While in Mexico City
Trying the local cuisine is just one of the many fun things to do in Mexico City. Trust me, you’ll have no problem filling your itinerary in this bustling city. To give you an idea of some other activities, I’ve highlighted our favorites below!
- Visit ancient ruins – As one of the oldest cities, Mexico City has many ancient ruins. You can visit the Templo Mayor Museum right in the city or take a day trip to Teotihuacan. We recommend this full-day tour which also stops at Guadalupe Shrine, Tlatelolco, and for a tequila tasting! And for thrill-seekers or romantic occasions, take a hot air balloon over the city at sunrise!
- Watch a Lucha Libre show – Lucha Libre in Mexico City is one of the most entertaining shows I’ve ever seen. This wrestling show is so quintessentially Mexican and is a ton of fun. The best way to understand the traditions and characters is through this organized tour, which also includes a mezcal tasting!
- Soak in hot springs – If you’re looking to escape Mexico City for a day, the crystal-blue waters of Las Grutas de Tolantongo Hot Springs are the perfect remedy. They’re set against a backdrop of gorgeous mountains and one of the most popular destinations in Mexico. It’s a bit of a drive, though, which is why I recommend this full-day tour.
- Shop for local souvenirs – If you want to go shopping or find some local souvenirs, head to the La Ciudadela Artisanal Market. This market showcases artists’ work from around the country for very affordable prices – and the selection is huge!
- Explore some museums – If you want a break from the sun, check out local museums! The Museo Soumaya houses over 66,000 pieces of artwork, while the Anthropology Museum gives you a window into Mexico’s ancient civilizations. You can also step inside the Frida Kahlo Museum, which is the renowned artist’s old home featuring her original artwork.
Where to Stay in Mexico City
Mexico City is massive, and there are lots of different areas to stay depending on what tours you want to take and what you want to get out of your trip. For this reason, we wrote a full guide on the best areas to stay in Mexico City as well as the best hostels in Mexico City! These blogs should help you choose an awesome hotel for your stay!
However, for a quick overview, here are some of my top recommendations.
Luxury – $$$
For luxury travelers, Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico is a top choice. This incredible 5-star hotel has the BEST location since it’s right in the Zócalo – the main plaza in the city. This is a beautiful, historic hotel with a lobby that looks like it belongs in a movie! You’re within walking distance of so many of Mexico City’s best sights and the rooms are spacious. Plus, breakfast on the rooftop terrace is a highlight!
Rooms start at $200 USD per night, but you’ll save a lot on transportation costs since you can walk to so many amazing places! Book a room online here.
Mid-range – $$
Hotel MX Roma is a clean, medium-budget hotel in La Roma, close to shops, bars, and restaurants. It has both standard and family rooms equipped with air conditioning, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen satellite TV. It offers a space with a terrace to enjoy with family or friends, private parking, a gym, free bikes, and 24-hour front desk service. It’s also an allergy-free property, so there’s no smoking and they use hypoallergenic products.
Rooms run $150 USD in peak season. However, you can snag one as cheap as $70 USD a night when you book in advance online!
Budget – $
For budget travelers, the Selina Hostel in downtown Mexico City is a great, well-known chain. I stayed here during one of my visits and loved the downtown location. Although the area may seem unsafe to some, it’s the Historic Center of Mexico City and where I spent most of my time. They have a common area, pool table, board games, and a bar – so it’s easy to meet others. If working remotely, there’s also a coworking space for an extra fee.
Bunk beds cost around $25 USD, and private rooms start at $80 USD. If you’re traveling on a budget, you can book Selina Hostel online through Hostelworld or Booking.com.
Renting a Car in Mexico
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car.
I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically.
I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too.
Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit.
Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
If you’re a foodie, taking a taco tour in Mexico City is a must! However, there are a surprising number of taco tours to choose from. As such, we hope our guide has helped you find one that you absolutely love. Just remember to show up hungry and ready to have a good time! And as the locals say, buen provecho!
If you enjoyed this blog, you can read more about Mexico here. And if you’re headed further south, read all about Central America or South America. Safe travels, and thanks for reading!
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