What is the best way to pay in Mexico City?

In Mexican cities and tourist areas, credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted. If you want to pay with American Express, you should ask first. Be careful when using your credit card at publicly accessible Mexican ATMs.



People Also Ask

While some merchants in Mexico may accept US Dollars, it is not widely accepted and you may receive a poor exchange rate. It's recommended to use Mexican Pesos when in Mexico.

MORE DETAILS

It's up to you how much you tip, but the recommended amount in Mexico is between 10% – 20% (15% is a good standard in tourist areas) of the bill or ticket price.

MORE DETAILS

Bank-card skimmers are highly prevalent, and thus cash is typically the safer option. ATMs are renowned for running out of cash (especially on Mexican payday), as well as being a hot spot for theft. So we suggest exchanging cash before you board to avoid these potential mishaps.

MORE DETAILS

It's recommended that you buy pesos before you land in Mexico, just in case you need the cash. According to this USA Today article, the most economical way to do this is to buy pesos from your bank in the U.S. Most banks will do this for free, especially if you're not withdrawing a significant amount of money.

MORE DETAILS

Before your trip, exchange money at your bank or credit union, which likely offers better rates and fewer and/or lower fees. See if your bank or credit union will buy back any leftover foreign currency for when you return.

MORE DETAILS

While it is possible to use US dollars to pay for tours, tips, and even accommodation, you will need Mexican currency for cash transactions in Mexico. In places that do accept physical U.S. dollars, such as hotels, using them may result in very unfavorable exchange rates or additional fees.

MORE DETAILS

For traveling (even on a backpacker budget), it is perhaps better to consider what 500 pesos (or $25 will buy). That is enough to rent a car for a way (minus non-specified expenses). It is also enough for dormitory accommodation in some of the cheapest hostels in Mexico City for two nights (around $8 per night).

MORE DETAILS

Some guests leave a lump-sum tip on the last day of their stay, but a better practice is doling out incremental tips daily, as hotel housekeepers might have different day-to-day room assignments. A daily tip more closely ensures your gratitude goes to the specific worker who services the room each day.

MORE DETAILS

In small restaurants, some people tip 1000 pesos or less (about $ . 50 US); A few tip 2000 pesos (about $1 US). Most Colombians tip very little or not at all. In the finer restaurants, wealthy people tip more, about 10%.

MORE DETAILS