Colectivos, Uber & Local Transport

Colectivos — The Minibuses

Colectivos are minibuses (VW Transporter or larger) that run fixed routes and stop at every corner. They are the cheapest way to travel and are used by locals for everything.

• Price: 20–80 MXN (1–4€) for most routes
• Payment: Cash when boarding or alighting
• Tulum → Playa del Carmen: 50 MXN (Colectivo) vs. 180 MXN (ADO)
• Valladolid → Chichén Itzá: 35 MXN in the Colectivo

Colectivos have no fixed schedule — they leave when full. Stand by the road and wave when one comes. Shout "¡Bajan!" when you want to get off.

Uber & DiDi

Uber works excellently in Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Cancún (except airport), Mérida, and most larger cities. DiDi (Chinese alternative) is often even cheaper.

• Always cheaper and safer than street taxis
• Payment by credit card or cash
• In CDMX: 10-km ride approx. 60–100 MXN (3–5€)

Metro (Mexico City)

The Mexico City Metro is one of the cheapest subway systems in the world: 5 MXN (0.27€) per ride, no matter where! 12 lines, 195 stations. Extremely crowded during rush hour — women have their own carriages.

Taxis

Only use authorized taxis (Sitio taxis) — recognizable by the meter and the number on the body. Never hail a taxi on the street that doesn't look official. In tourist areas, negotiate the price beforehand or insist on the meter.