Mexico City at night: taxis, drinks and safety advice

Summary: Mexico City is one of the largest and busiest capitals in the Americas, and going out at night is part of its appeal. British authorities warn about unlicensed taxis, lost belongings, spiked drinks and occasional demonstrations. With a few routines (authorised transport, drinks in sight, limited cash and medical insurance) most risks can be reduced. This guide gathers that advice with its official sources.

Before you go out: what official sources say

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) says crime is a risk for foreign nationals, especially in major cities and tourist resorts, and that street crime is "a serious issue" in those places. That does not mean you cannot enjoy the city; it means you should travel informed and with sensible habits, as in any large metropolis.

The British guidance specifically mentions that pickpocketing is common, including on public transport, and recommends carrying only the cash and cards you need for the night. A good habit is to leave your passport in the accommodation safe and carry a copy, and to split money between two pockets or bags.

Taxis and night transport

This is the most repeated piece of advice: unlicensed taxi drivers have robbed and assaulted passengers, including in Mexico City. The official recommendation is to use authorised "sitio" taxis from official ranks or have your hotel or restaurant order one. At airports, use only authorised pre-paid taxi services.

• Ask the venue to call your taxi when you leave a bar or restaurant, instead of hailing one on the street.
• Share your journey with someone you trust (time and general destination) when you return alone.
• Do not accept a stranger's offer of a lift, even if the hotel is close.
• If you are going to a party, agree beforehand how you will get back and who will order the transport.

The same source notes that in some tourist cities licensed taxi drivers protest against ride-hailing apps; in Mexico City, check the local conditions of each service at the time and choose the authorised option that suits you best.

Drinks, alcohol and substances

The British guidance warns not to leave food or drinks unattended in bars and restaurants, because travellers have been drugged and robbed. It also warns that tainted alcohol has caused illness and blackouts, and that methanol in alcoholic drinks has caused deaths: "even small amounts of methanol can kill," and you cannot detect it by taste or smell.

Practical tips:

1. Order drinks at the bar and keep them in sight.
2. Be wary of unusually low prices or bottles that look refilled.
3. If you or a companion have symptoms after drinking (blurred vision, severe illness, disorientation), seek urgent medical attention and say what was consumed.

Demonstrations and large gatherings

Demonstrations are common in the capital and can turn tense. The FCDO adds that since July 2025 anti-gentrification protests have taken place in central and tourist areas, and that foreign nationals who join political activities can be detained and deported. The sensible approach is to follow local news, move away from any gathering and not to film or take part.

Earthquakes, ash and other local notices

The guidance mentions the 911 CDMX app, which can give up to 60 seconds of warning for some seismic movements (not every type of quake). It also notes that ash from Popocatépetl has disrupted flights at Benito Juárez airport, which is worth knowing if you have tight connections. And if you drive a rental car or one with other plates, the "Hoy no Circula" programme restricts days and hours for vehicles without Mexico City or State of Mexico plates, with fines and vehicle confiscation.

Health and emergencies

For emergencies, dial 911. In the capital, emergency buttons on CCTV cameras connect directly to emergency services, and LOCATEL (5658 1111) has English-speaking staff. British authorities recommend drinking only boiled or bottled water and avoiding ice, checking vaccinations at least eight weeks before travelling, and bearing in mind that altitude sickness can be a risk in parts of Mexico. They also list Zika, chikungunya, dengue, air pollution and reported cases of Cyclospora. Take out insurance that covers local treatment and evacuation; some hospitals do not bill insurers directly, so you may have to pay first and claim later.

Entry to the country

British tourists do not need a visa: you receive a stamp showing the days allowed (180 at most). Your passport must be valid for the whole stay, and Mexico recommends at least 180 days of validity. Rules differ by nationality, so check those for your own country.

Quick checklist for a night out in Mexico City

• Return transport decided before leaving.
• Limited cash, a charged phone and a digital copy of your passport.
• Drink always in sight.
• Medical insurance and emergency numbers noted down.
• Tell someone your general plan, without private details.

Sources

• GOV.UK (FCDO), Mexico travel advice: safety and security, accessed 10 November 2026.
• GOV.UK (FCDO), Mexico travel advice: health, accessed 10 November 2026.
• GOV.UK (FCDO), Mexico travel advice: entry requirements, accessed 10 November 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to use ride-hailing apps in Mexico City?

The British guidance recommends authorised "sitio" taxis, ordered through your hotel or from official ranks. For other options, check local conditions at the time and avoid getting into strangers' vehicles.

What number do I call in an emergency?

911. LOCATEL (5658 1111) offers local information with English-speaking staff, according to the FCDO.

Can I go to a demonstration out of curiosity?

Better not. They can turn tense, and foreign nationals who take part in political activities can be detained and deported.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, it is strongly advisable: it should cover local medical care and evacuation, and some hospitals require payment upfront.